bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FEATURES OF THE DETERMINING THE STATE POLICY OF UKRAINE IN THE AREA OF DE-OCCUPATION
Authors: Bondar Vita
Published: November 2024

This article aims to explore the peculiarities of defining the concept of "state policy" in Ukraine in the context of de-occupation. The relevance of this research is grounded in the ongoing territorial challenges that Ukraine faces due to military aggression and the occupation of its territories. The need for a coherent and strategically sound approach to regaining control over these regions makes the issue highly pertinent. The study adopts an analytical research methodology, focusing on the theoretical foundations of state policy in the sphere of de-occupation. The research also utilizes comparative analysis, examining the different models of de-occupation that have been applied historically and internationally, including military, political-diplomatic, institutional, and economic models. The findings indicate that the concept of “state policy” in de-occupation processes is multi-faceted and requires a comprehensive approach, combining various strategies. Key components of the theoretical basis for state policy in de-occupation are identified, including the political and legal foundation, socio-economic integration, national reconciliation and cultural integration, security measures, and international support. Each of these elements plays a crucial role in the successful recovery of occupied territories and the re-establishment of state sovereignty. The study highlights the importance of synchronizing these components to ensure long-term stability and development in post-conflict regions. The practical value of the article lies in its potential to serve as a guideline for policymakers and government officials in Ukraine, offering a structured understanding of how these key components can be effectively integrated into the country's de-occupation strategy. By focusing on both theoretical and practical dimensions, the article provides a framework that can contribute to the formulation of effective policies aimed at the reintegration of occupied territories, addressing challenges such as legal ambiguity, socio-economic disparities, and security risks. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on de-occupation by offering insights into how Ukraine can enhance its efforts in restoring territorial integrity in the face of current geopolitical challenges.
A BALANCED MONITORING SYSTEM AS AN ELEMENT OF ENTERPRISE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
Authors: Yehiozarian Artur
Published: November 2024

The article is dedicated to the study of a balanced monitoring system as an element of the enterprise management system. The purpose of the research is to analyze, systematize, and summarize the existing theoretical and methodological aspects of the implementation of a balanced monitoring system and to develop conceptual foundations for monitoring within the enterprise management system. The study examines in detail the role of monitoring as an essential tool in the enterprise management system, particularly in the agricultural sector. It has been determined that monitoring ensures comprehensive control and analysis of various aspects of activity, providing managers with timely and accurate information for making effective managerial decisions. The research demonstrates that promptly identifying deviations and risks allows enterprises to quickly respond to changes, adjust their actions, and minimize potential losses, which is especially important in a dynamic market environment. It is substantiated that monitoring allows enterprises to evaluate the effectiveness of their activities from different perspectives: financial, production, human resources, and environmental, contributing to the identification of strengths and weaknesses in operations and helping to determine priority areas for development. Arguments are provided regarding the importance of monitoring in strategic planning, as it provides the necessary information for forming long-term plans, considering current and projected changes in market conditions. It has been revealed that a balanced monitoring system, which takes into account not only financial but also non-financial indicators, helps to avoid a one-sided approach to enterprise management, facilitating more informed decision-making. The study on the effectiveness of using a balanced monitoring system demonstrated its positive impact on improving the competitiveness of enterprises, particularly through the optimization of resource use, improvement of product quality, and cost reduction. It is noted that monitoring plays a key role in ensuring environmental standards and social responsibility of agricultural enterprises, which is an important factor for maintaining market reputation and complying with international norms. The application of modern automated monitoring systems enables enterprises to quickly adapt to changes in the external environment, respond to demand fluctuations, and make necessary adjustments to their activities.
MANAGEMENT OF THE FINANCIAL FLOWS OF LOGISTICS SYSTEMS
Authors: Kustrich Liliia
Published: November 2024

In the context of globalization and integration of the world economy, the main task of every business entity is to ensure financial stability and security of its operations. The logistics industry is no exception. In such a context, there is a necessity of fundamentally new approaches to the development of an effective system for managing financial flows of logistics systems.
The insufficiency of the theoretical and practical study of the problems of managing financial flows of logistics systems, the difficult current economic conditions of management, outlined by the impact of the financial crisis and economic instability, the necessity to manage and control the level of financial stability of logistics enterprises in order to prevent bankruptcy, are the key reasons for the relevance of the study.
In article considers issues of management of financial flows of logistics systems. The analysis of management processes in the system of financial activity of the logistics industry has been conducted. It is noted that the relevant aspects of managing the financial flows of logistics systems should include measures to improve the efficiency of using borrowed capital and investment resources. The study theoretically substantiates and solves a set of issues related to the development of an effective concept for managing financial flows of logistics systems under conditions of uncertainty.
The analysis of the status and trends in the development of the logistics sector, as well as topical aspects of financial management of logistics enterprises, has allowed to develop a set of measures to improve the system of management of financial flows of logistics systems, which should be implemented on the principles of financial management. The concept of management of financial flows of logistics systems is proposed. A scheme for ensuring the financial security of logistics systems has been developed. The key principles of management of financial flows of logistics systems under conditions of uncertainty are determined.
The study made it possible to state that the conceptual approach to managing the financial flows of logistics systems will help to prevent the crisis, increase the efficiency of activities and the successful development of the industry as a whole.
PROSPECTS FOR THE INTEGRATION OF UKRAINE'S NATIONAL SECURITY MECHANISMS WITH THE COLLECTIVE SECURITY SYSTEMS OF THE EU AND NATO
Authors: Nazarenko Sergij , Sharyi Viacheslav , Kifin Oleksandr
Published: November 2024

This article examines the prospects for integrating Ukraine's national security mechanisms with the collective security systems of the European Union and NATO. The study addresses the current challenges and opportunities arising from Ukraine's efforts to align its national security policy with the standards and requirements of international security organizations. The analysis underscores the significance of this integration in the context of ongoing geopolitical tensions and the necessity for enhanced cooperation in safeguarding national and regional security. Utilizing a qualitative research methodology, the article employs a comprehensive literature review, analyzing existing frameworks, policies, and strategic documents relevant to Ukraine's security landscape. Comparative analysis is also applied to assess the effectiveness of Ukraine's security initiatives against those of EU and NATO member states, identifying best practices that can be adapted to the Ukrainian context. The findings reveal critical areas of cooperation, including military interoperability, intelligence sharing, and joint training exercises, which are essential for strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities. The article further explores the legal, institutional, and operational frameworks necessary for harmonizing Ukraine's security strategies with those of its partners, emphasizing the importance of aligning legislative measures and defense policies with EU and NATO standards. In conclusion, the article advocates for a strategic approach to integration that prioritizes resilience and adaptability within Ukraine's national security mechanisms. By enhancing collaboration with EU and NATO, Ukraine can bolster its security architecture, thereby contributing to regional stability and collective defense initiatives. The recommendations presented aim to guide policymakers in implementing effective strategies for fostering greater alignment with international security frameworks, ensuring a robust response to evolving threats in the region. Through these measures, Ukraine can not only advance its national security objectives but also play a pivotal role in the broader European security landscape.
FORMATION OF A CONTROL SYSTEM IN AN AGRO-INDUSTRIAL ENTERPRISE
Authors: Nosach Nataliia
Published: November 2024

The article examines the importance of control in the management systems of agro-industrial enterprises, which is critical for ensuring their stability and effectiveness in a dynamic environment. The aim of the article is to analyze, systematize, generalize, and improve the theoretical and methodological foundations for the formation of a control system in an agro-industrial enterprise. It is determined that in the context of constant changes affecting agriculture, the control function becomes particularly significant as it helps adapt enterprises to new challenges and prevents negative consequences. The study presents the elements of the control system in agro-industrial enterprises, which include: planning (establishing goals, defining standards, and developing plans that serve as a basis for further monitoring and control), monitoring (constant collection and analysis of information on the execution of production processes), deviation analysis (evaluating performance results and comparing them with planned indicators), and feedback mechanisms (providing information on the effectiveness of production processes and their results, which is used to update plans and improve subsequent stages of control). Key control tools applicable at all stages of agro-industrial enterprises' activities are presented: planning and forecasting, result analysis and reporting, monitoring and information, auditing and inspections, quality control of products, budgeting, verification and compliance with environmental standards, personnel management, risk management, and technological control. It is found that timely application of control tools helps avoid losses and maintain high product quality. The purpose of control is justified as ensuring compliance of all production processes with established plans and standards to achieve economic efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality. The study allowed for the identification of the significance of integrating modern control methods and information technologies, which significantly enhance the effectiveness of management processes. It is noted that the application of modern technologies, such as ERP systems, IoT, and analytical platforms, significantly improves control over all stages of production and supply.
CHALLENGES AND BARRIERS IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF ANTI-CORRUPTION POLICY AT THE NATIONAL AND REGIONAL LEVELS
Authors: Samoilenko Larysa , Nazarenko Sergij , Perun Natalia
Published: November 2024

This article explores the challenges and barriers faced in the implementation of anti-corruption policies at both national and regional levels in Ukraine, emphasizing the urgent need for effective measures to combat corruption, which remains a significant impediment to sustainable economic development, the establishment of a rule of law, and social justice. Despite numerous legislative initiatives and the establishment of specialized anti-corruption bodies, the implementation of anti-corruption policies is hindered by various factors. These include insufficient institutional capacity, the influence of political interests that compromise the independence of anti-corruption agencies, and an inadequate legislative framework that often fails to meet contemporary demands. Regionally, local elites frequently resist anti-corruption measures, compounded by low legal awareness among citizens and a lack of resources for effective oversight and investigations. This research employs qualitative analysis, drawing on existing literature and case studies to identify key challenges in anti-corruption efforts. It synthesizes perspectives from various scholars, including Al-Jundi, Shuhaiber, and Budsaratragoon, to highlight global insights while focusing on Ukraine's specific context. By analyzing these challenges, the study seeks to develop recommendations for overcoming barriers to effective anti-corruption implementation. It underscores the importance of enhancing institutional capabilities, promoting transparency, and fostering a culture of accountability. Ultimately, this research serves as a critical step toward establishing a robust anti-corruption framework that promotes a transparent and equitable society in Ukraine, necessitating a comprehensive approach that integrates national and regional strategies for optimal effectiveness. Through this work, the article contributes to the ongoing discourse on anti-corruption policies and their implementation challenges, providing actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners.
The Generative in the Gospel of John
Authors: Bruckner Isabella , Prenga Eduard
Published: November 2024

The words and expressions used in the Gospel of John represent not only an immediate connection to its philosophical and liturgical context, but also, and precisely for this reason, a challenge for theology. The article deals with the question of the generative in John, focusing particularly on the Prologue of the Gospel. Founded on a theological exegesis of the verses 14 and 18b, it provides fundamental reflections on the femininity of God as well as on a gender-inclusive understanding of the incarnation. The tools used for this argumentation come from philosophy and linguistics. In a second part the biblical analysis result in a translation of these reflections in the field of spiritual practice and aesthetics, respectively liturgy, since “liturgy” is understood, on the one hand, as a public and communitarian act, and on the other hand as the performativity of the Lógos himself mediated by Christian practice.
THE EFFECT OF FIXED ASSETS, TOTAL INCOME, AND TOTAL DEBT ON NET INCOME IN PT. GARUDA INDONESIA (PERSERO) PERIOD 2014 – 2020
Authors: Susanti Neneng , Nabila Alya , Nurjaman Ekky , Akbar Abiyan
Published: November 2024

The purpose of conducting this research is to determine the financial performance of PT Garuda Indonesia in the period 2014-2020 which is reviewed through report posts finance is an asset fixed , total income and total debt as the independent variable and net income as the dependent variable. The data used are secondary data in the form of financial reports and annual reports obtained from the official website of PT Garuda Indonesia. Which method used in this study is a descriptive and verification combination method with quantitative approach to conclude data in the form of numbers into descriptive analysis. The technique taken is a saturated sampling technique. By using eviews 12, the results show that partially total income has a significant effect on net income, but assets still has no significant effect on net income, the same as total debt has no significant effect on net profit. But simultaneously assets Fixed income, total income, total debt have an effect on net income.
The Influence Of Entrepreneurship Marketing Systems And Innovation On Competitive Advantage On Culinary Of UMKM In Bandung City
Authors: Dwiki Kurniawan Muhammad Fariz , Dzulfikar Muhamad Fajar , Ramadhan Fakhri , Wijaya Tomi Ikbal , Feronika Yohana
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this study is to determine whether the marketing system of entrepreneurship and innovation has an effect on the competitive advantage in the food of UMKM in the City of Bandung. The population used in this study derived data from a questionnaire that is distributed to UMKM in the City of Bandung, with the last sample of 123 respondents using the method of test, the classical assumption that in the test with the tests of normality, test heteralitas, trial serentitas multisoility, and some analysis subefisensi by using deduction regression. The results of the analysis of the data of the state that entrepreneurship and marketing system innovation have a positive effect or significant in the variable competitive advantage, both of them are seen simultaneously
Cultivo intercalado maíz-soja. Un aporte a la sustentabilidad en la región semiárida argentina
Authors: Zamar J. L. , Giambastiani G.
Published: November 2024

El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar la producción de granos por unidad de superficie del intercultivo soja-maíz en relación a sus unicultivos, como una alternativa de manejo sustentable en la región semiárida central de Córdoba, Argentina. El índice Unidad Equivalente de Tierra (UET), cuyo valor de indiferencia es 1, fue de 1,09 y 1,11 en el primer y segundo ensayo, respectivamente. El maíz asociado con la soja se vio beneficiado en ambas experiencias, mientras que la soja intercultivada se comportó de manera indiferente respecto a sus unicultivos. Las evidencias experimentales sugieren que el intercultivo maíz-soja es una tecnología de uso potencial en el diseño de sistemas más sustentables, puesto que permite incrementar los rendimientos en grano por unidad de superficie, sin el agregado de insumos agronómicos adicionales.
Contenido proteico en relación con el rendimiento de líneas de trigo (Triticum aestivum L.) adaptadas a la región semiárida central de la Argentina
Authors: Dubois M. E. , Gaido Z. A. , Maich R. H. , Manera G. A.
Published: November 2024

Los planes de mejoramiento no lograron mantener la calidad industrial del trigo en Argentina, por lo que la reconversión del mercado implica mejorar su calidad. Una estrategia sería desarrollar nuevos cultivares cualitativamente superiores. En este trabajo se analizó el contenido proteico en relación con el rendimiento de líneas de trigo provenientes del Centro Internacional de Mejoramiento de Maíz y Trigo (CIMMYT), con la finalidad de introducir material germoplásmico superior al momento de plantear un programa de mejoramiento para la región semiárida del centro de Argentina. Estas líneas fueron contrastadas con variedades nacionales y líneas de origen local obtenidas en la Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Argentina. Las evidencias experimentales sugieren que las líneas del CIMMYT se destacaron por su alto contenido proteico, mientras que las locales presentaron los mayores rendimientos proteicos. En tal sentido, el material del CIMMYT puede representar una fuente de variabilidad genética para aumentar el contenido proteico de materiales desarrollados para zonas en donde dicho contenido debe ser incrementado.
Indications, Surgical Techniques and Visual Outcomes of Pediatric Keratoplasty
Authors: Yaprak Lütfiye , Çetinkaya Yaprak Aslı , Başol İbrahim , Ünal Mustafa , Ayaz Yusuf
Published: November 2024

Purpose: In our study, we aimed to present our nine-year pediatric keratoplasty (KP) experience in a tertiary hospital with indications, surgical techniques and visual results.
Methods: Pediatric patients who underwent KP surgery between 2012 and 2021 in our department were retrospectively analyzed. Patients' gender, age at transplantation, indications, surgery technique, combined surgeries, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), spherical equivalent (SE) values, postoperative complications and follow-up times were evaluated. Surgical success was considered as an IOP
Students’ Perceptions About the Webinars: An Intuitionistic Fuzzy Force Field Analysis
Authors:   Decision Sciences & Operations Management, Calcutta Business School (A Unit of Shikshayatan Foundation), Diamond Harbour Road, Bishnupur Kolkata, West Bengal 743503, India, Biswas Sanjib , Sanyal Aparajita ,   Decision Sciences & Operations Management, Calcutta Business School (A Unit of Shikshayatan Foundation), Diamond Harbour Road, Bishnupur Kolkata, West Bengal 743503, India, Pamucar Dragan ,   Faculty of Organizational Sciences, Department of Operations Research and Statistics, Belgrade, Serbia
Published: November 2024

Aftermath of the recent pandemic, online learning has emerged as an essential aid that uses webinars frequently. However, there is a little or no evidence of work which discerned the usefulness of the webinars by considering both positive and negative forces. To this end, the present work exhibits a new Intuitionistic Fuzzy Number (IFN) based force field analysis (FFA) to compare the influences of both driving factors (DFs) and restraining factors (RFs). A group of 91 students participated in the study. The current work presents wherein the full consistency method (FUCOM) has been utilized to find the weights of the DFs and RFs. Overall, the current work shows that the aggregated score of DF is more than that of the opposing forces (i.e., RF). Therefore, it is evident that webinars are the accepted situation post-pandemic. The current study shall provide useful direction for designing hybrid learning.
Sequencing the Parasitic Nematode Contracaecum spp. in Edible Fish (Planiliza Abu)
Authors: Shaalan Nada Naji , Alasadiy Yassir , Alali Firas , Jawad Marwa , Alhesnawi Asaad
Published: November 2024

Contracaecum rudolphii Hartwich,1964 (Nematoda: Ascaridoidea, Anisakidae) is a typical anisakid recorded globally. Consumption of undercooked seafood, raw or infected, contains the nematode larvae that cause human anisakidosis. Fish (Planiliza abu) specimens were obtained from a local market in Karbala, Iraq. This type of fish came from the Razzaza Lake. The prevalence of Contracaecum spp. parasites were done over eight months from June 2022 until January 2023, using ITS1, morphological and molecular analysis of the nematodes Contracaecum spp from fish. Of 395 fish, 124 (31.3%) had visceral infections caused by Contracaecum spp. larval type (L3). The morphological and genetic identification of Contracaecum spp. was validated in the parasitology laboratory of the Veterinary Medicine College at Kerbala University. The result showed that the infection rate in January 2023 was (46.6%) and increased while it was (20%) in September 2022. With the use of ITS1 gene, the molecular analysis for Contracaecum spp. was to investigate Contracaecum spp. and to confirm it. However, the nematode count, number of infected fish, and length were all substantially different at the P≤0.05. This study detected the isolate=(a1) at the locus=OP787071 and sequenced the parasites. The isolates were confirmed as Contracaecum rudolphii, isolate a1 internal transcribed spacer 1, partial sequence. In conclusion, molecular genotyping might be a useful technique for identifying the Contracaecum L3 larval species, life-cycle biology, transmission methods, and types of intermediate hosts.
Dynamic Ransomware Detection through Adaptive Anomaly Partitioning Framework
Authors: Hatt Allan , Blackwood Christopher , Lockhart Benjamin , Ravenscroft Jonathan , Wainwright Nicholas
Published: November 2024

The escalating frequency and sophistication of cyber threats require the development of more advanced detection mechanisms. The Adaptive Anomaly Partitioning Framework introduces a novel approach to ransomware detection through its dynamic partitioning mechanism, which enables the system to adapt to emerging threats without human intervention. This framework employs a modular design that facilitates continuous learning, thereby enhancing its efficacy in identifying and mitigating ransomware activities. Empirical evaluations demonstrate high detection accuracy and precision across diverse datasets, with scalability assessments indicating its suitability for large-scale network environments. The framework's adaptability to various ransomware variants and its low false positive rate demonstrate its robustness and reliability. These attributes position the Adaptive Anomaly Partitioning Framework as a significant advancement in cybersecurity defenses, offering a promising solution for mitigating the impact of ransomware attacks on critical systems and data.
THE POMMERMAN 2019 WINNER ALGORITHM
Authors: Márton Görög
Published: November 2024

The Pommerman artificial intelligence \& programming competition was organized at NeurIPS conference in 2018 and 2019. This report is the technical explanation of my submission, which reached second position in the first competition, and became winner at the second competition by a wide margin. It includes reasoning for design choices (RL vs tree search), details about the simulation framework and the multi-agent algorithm itself.Additionally, I publish the code and offer it for further experiments and improvements.
Education Administration Using the New Normal and Quality Approach in the Suwannabhumi Prakarn Secondary School Consortium under the Secondary Educational Service Area Office, Samut Prakan
Authors: Ganjampa Atirach , Yapadit Sumitra
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this research was to 1) study the level of school administration using the new basic education and quality approaches in Suvarnabhumi Prakan, under the Samut Prakan Secondary Educational Service Area Office, 2) compare school administration using the new basic education and quality approaches in Suvarnabhumi Prakan, under the Samut Prakan Secondary Educational Service Area Office, classified by gender, age, education level, and work experience, and 3) gather suggestions, problems, and solutions for the development of school administration using these approaches in Suvarnabhumi Prakan, under the Samut Prakan Secondary Educational Service Area Office. The sample group for the research consisted of 254 teachers from Suvarnabhumi Prakan, under the Samut Prakan Secondary Educational Service Area Office. The research instruments used were questionnaires, with a reliability coefficient of 0.973, and interview forms. The statistics used for data analysis were the mean, standard deviation, and t-test. The finding revealed that: 1) The level of school administration using the new basic education and quality approaches in Suvarnabhumi Prakan, under the Samut Prakan Secondary Educational Service Area Office, was found to be high; 2)A comparison of school administration using the new basic education and quality approaches in Suvarnabhumi Prakan, under the Samut Prakan Secondary Educational Service Area Office, classified by gender, age, educational level, and work experience, showed no significant differences; 3) Regarding problem-solving guidelines for the development of school administration using the new basic education and quality approaches in Suvarnabhumi Prakan, under the Samut Prakan Secondary Educational Service Area Office, it was found that administrators, when making decisions, setting policies, or participating in planning, strive to allow personnel to express their views and participate in planning as much as possible. They ensure that their actions align with the context of each individual, the principles of correctness, and the policies and goals of the educational institution. Additionally, there is an emphasis on studying school data and analyzing key issues so that personnel, teachers, and students can gain a thorough understanding of the change process and the main driving factors for success.
Why an updated systematic review is required before launch of another randomised clinical trial: recommendations for investigators, funders, ethics committees, sponsors, and medical journals
Authors: Boesen Kim , Thorlund Kristian , Gluud Christian
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we summarise the scientific and ethical importance of systematically reviewing previous research to justify the conduct of a new randomised clinical trial. We illustrate the deleterious effects of not systematically reviewing the evidence before a new trial and summarise how rarely trial protocols and published trial reports cite a relevant systematic review as a justification. We also describe the POISE trial as a classic example of how to justify a new trial by conducting a systematic review. There is a paucity of formal requirements from regulatory authorities, ethics committees, funders, and scientific journals to document the justification of new clinical trials through systematic reviews. We recommend principal investigators to search for relevant systematic reviews early in the project to approximate the workload needed to update, revise, or conduct a new systematic review as the foundation for a randomised clinical trial. While we cannot recommend the use of rapid reviews due to the risk of missing important information, artificial intelligence supported tools to automate laborious manual tasks may drastically reduce the time needed to conduct a thorough systematic review. All stakeholders involved in the conduct of clinical trials should consider the systematic review as an integral part of the clinical trial lifecycle and publish explicit requirements about its conduct as a condition for successful approvals, funding, and publication. The systematic review is the most sensible method to exhaustively justify a new trial and the best primer to design clinically useful new trials.
Early Middle Triassic “Swim tracks” in the Black Forest region (SW Germany) are preservational variants of chirotheriid footprints
Authors: Schneider Martin
Published: November 2024

Buntsandstein makes up a large proportion of the surface rock of the Black Forest, in the Southwest (SW) of Germany. Almost everywhere where the uppermost section of the Buntsandstein outcrops, tetrapod tracks called “swim tracks” can be found. Although known for a long time, these tracks have until now received marginal scientific attention in Germany. They are no different from uniform tracks found in the SW of the USA. Here as there, they were sedimented in flood plains largely at the same time and comparable climate conditions. The paleohabitat of the location of the tracks shown in this article could be reconstructed. It can be shown that they are most likely preservation variants of chirotheriid tracks. However, it must be doubted that they are actually “swim tracks”. The arguments for this notion are presented in this paper. - Trace fossils make important contributions to the elucidation of the way of life of their creators. Here they demonstrate a strong presence of archosaurs in the floodplains in the Aegean period.
Acquisition of a dataset for dental microwear texture analysis (DMTA) of sauropod teeth: pre-analytical and post-processing steps for quality assessment
Authors: Saleiro André , Tschopp Emanuel , Daash Alexander , Kaiser Thomas M. , Wiesinger Ria , Winkler Daniela E.
Published: November 2024

Dental microwear texture analysis (DMTA) has been widely used in the study of dietary habits and trends of animals, based on the abrasion patterns preserved in dental enamel. Therefore, it is seen as an important tool when it comes to understanding the ecology, niche partitioning, and competition between co-occurring taxa, both extant and extinct. During the Late Jurassic, sauropod dinosaur faunas were quite diverse, with distinct groups inhabiting the same ecosystems. Being the largest mega-herbivores of their ecosystems, competition for resources could have been a determining factor that led to such diversity, making sauropods a good study-group for DMTA. Here we describe the complete process of creating a large DMTA dataset, from the required pre-analytical molding, casting, and three-dimensional data acquisition to the post-processing steps to quality check the acquired data. A total of 119 teeth attributed to the major sauropod groups from the Late Jurassic were measured for the most commonly analyzed DMTA parameters. We describe in detail the production of dental molds, casts, and the steps taken throughout the measuring process. We also describe the way in which we tested the quality of our data, as well as the taphonomical implications for future studies using the resulting dataset. The end result is the first large DMTA sauropod teeth dataset, consisting of 1011 measurements.
Comparing dichotic listening and monaural degraded speech in measuring ear dominance
Authors: Vig Julianna , Jakab Zoltán
Published: November 2024

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare three different methods for assessing ear dominance and analyse the relationship between handedness and various ear dominance values. Methods: In a group of neurotypical, Hungarian adults including right-handed (N=38), left-handed (N=24) and ambidextrous (N=10) men and women, handedness was assessed by a short form of the Edinburgh Handedness Inventory, whereas ear dominance was assessed by dichotic tests and two types of degraded speech stimuli (sine-wave and vocoded speech, generated from trisyllabic Hungarian words) presented monaurally. Results: Although the majority of participants had a right ear advantage using each of the three methods, characteristics of ear dominance differed depending on the assessment method. The three different ear dominance indices were uncorrelated with one another. Handedness was weakly related to dominance measured by monaural sine-wave stimuli and unrelated to that measured by monaural vocoded and dichotic stimuli. Crossed dominance was observed in a substantial proportion of participants (35-46%, depending on the type of ear dominance). Analysis of the perception of degraded speech revealed a remarkable interindividual variability and a learning transfer between sine-wave and vocoded speech.Conclusion: The use of monaural degraded speech stimuli reveals different forms of ear dominance compared with dichotic tests, which suggests that ear dominance is strongly task-dependent. Handedness is not strongly correlated with any form of ear dominance. The high prevalence of crossed hand-ear dominance suggests that this type of crossed dominance is a normal variant rather than a maladaptive trait. The observed learing transfer between the two types of degraded stimuli might be mediated by domain-general mechanisms.
Emotional Context, Learning, and Decision-Making: Associations with Mental Health and Personality in Nulliparous and Pregnant Women from a UK Birth Cohort
Authors: Costantini Ilaria , Montout Axel , Moran Paul , Kounali Daphne , Pearson Rebecca , Ludwig Casimir Johannes Hendrikus
Published: November 2024

BackgroundParental capacity to learn from dynamic infant responses is a fundamental component of early dyadic interactions. However, the precise cognitive processes involved in successful interactions are not clear. If understood these could be targeted by preventative interventions.MethodsWe examined the computational basis of learning and decision-making in nulliparous (Study 1) and pregnant participants enrolled in a multigenerational cohort study (Study 2) using a two-armed bandit task adapted to simulate a playful interaction with an infant. Participants chose between two competing bandits (i.e., two toys) with different underlying nominal probabilities for three outcomes (i.e., infant sad, neutral, and happy facial expressions). In Study 1, we manipulated the baseline emotional context of the task (i.e., baby started happy or sad) to assess its influence on the processing of emotional feedback and decision-making in a sample of non-parents. In both studies, we explored whether mental health and personalities difficulties associated with learning from feedback. ResultsThe manipulation of the emotional context (Study 1) was associated with differences in how participants learnt from the feedback and made decisions. Both studies suggest that having greater personality difficulties and experiencing higher antenatal depressive symptoms (Study 2) associate with slower learning from infant feedback. ConclusionsOur findings provide novel evidence regarding the role of the emotional context in learning and decision-making processes. For parents with depressive symptoms and personality difficulties, dampened responsivity to emotional feedback and inflexibility in updating beliefs about the values of actions may underlie fewer sensitive behaviours when interacting with their infants.
The role and capacities of large-scale actor coalitions in shaping sustainability transformations
Authors: Maniatakou Sofia , Olsson Pero , Søgaard Jørgensen Peter
Published: November 2024

Several transnational corporations, investors, international organizations and philanthropies have formed coalitions to respond to global social and environmental challenges. Do these coalitions, consisting of large-scale actors, have the capacities to contribute to the transformations that are needed, or do they perpetuate the same system dynamics that created the problem in the first place? We investigate this question by comparing publicly available information for five coalitions working with financial and food systems sustainability. This paper examines whether large-scale actor coalitions (LSACs) may contribute to transformations towards equitable and sustainable futures. We use a ‘rapid assessment’ 20-variable framework to collect and analyze empirical data from five food and finance coalitions to identify their roles and capacities for transformative change. Our results indicate that LSACs implement distinct strategies to reach their goals. More specifically, due to their diverse set-ups, LSACs have the ability to raise awareness of sustainability issues, utilize ties to push forward agendas, experiment with solutions and showcase promising niche initiatives. We examine strategies undertaken by LSACs that can enable other change makers working to transform the food and finance systems, contributing to systems with high and diverse capacities for transformative change. We also identify potential capacity gaps within the studied LSACs, which might hinder the creation of enabling conditions for transformative change within the food and finance sectors.
Regional Migration in Economically Lagging Regions in the UK, France, and Germany
Authors: Velthuis Sanne , Le Petit-Guerin Mehdi , Royer Jeroen , Leibert Tim , Cauchi-Duval Nicolas , Franklin Rachel S. , MacKinnon Danny
Published: November 2024

Over the past ten years or so, concern has mounted about places in the Global North that have been ‘left behind’ by the growth and prosperity experienced in superstar cities and other wealthy regions. This briefing paper summarises the findings from the one of the strands of the ‘Beyond Left Behind Places’ project, which involved quantitative analysis of residential migration patterns in economically ‘left behind’ regions in the UK, France, and Germany during the immediate pre-COVID period. In addition, we conducted qualitative research with residents of economically ‘left behind’ regions in the three countries to get their perceptions. We use national administrative and census data for the three countries to examine whether economically lagging regions tend to lose or gain population through migration, and what age groups are moving in or out. Economic theories often assume that individuals migrate from economically lagging regions to areas offering better economic conditions. But actually, economically lagging regions in the UK, France and Germany generally tend to experience net population inflows. In other words, more people are moving to these regions than are moving out. In fact, when it comes to internal migration (i.e. people moving within the same country), these lagging regions tend to attract more new residents, on average, than more economically successful regions do.
A glimpse on health care financing in Nepal
Authors: Subedi Khem Raj
Published: November 2024

This article highlights the important components of Nepalese healthcare financing and aims at examining the health care financing system in Nepal in terms of share of  government health care expenditure per capita, household out-of-pocket expenditure, and ratio of total health care expenditure to Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The recent data shows that Government of Nepal allocates meagre 1.11 percent of GDP from government coffer for health care financing where out-of-pocket payment is 3.47percent of GDP and it is about 60 percent of total health care expenditure. It implies that people are heavily dependent on their own source for health care financing. Public Health Expenditure as a percent of Total Health Expenditure 40 percent. Public Expenditure on health as Percent of Total Government Expenditure is 11 percent, Total Health Expenditure (government and out-of-pocket) is 5.8 percent of GDP. The annual per capita government health care expenditure is US$ 44 for 2015. This figure is extremely low in comparison to the other parts of the world like European Union US$ 2192, Western Pacific Region US$ 1338, American Region US$ 1192 even African Region US$114 and South East Asian Region US$ 175 for the same period. This infers that the health care financing in resource-poor country like Nepal relies heavily on household out-of-pocket payments which often results in financial catastrophe for poor and economically vulnerable households. The government needs to make serious effort to bring drastic change in policy priority to improve health care financing to ensure quality change in this sector taking into consideration allocative efficiency and technical efficiency the essential parameters to ensure efficiency in health care financing schemes.
India's Neighbourhood First Policy
Authors: Pant Bhuwaneswor
Published: November 2024

After assuming post of prime-minister of India, Narendra Modi hinted that his foreign policy will actively focus on improving ties with India’s immediate neighbours, a policy that has since been termed the neighbourhood first policy. India’s Neighbourhood first Policy indicating four things: India will be giving political and diplomatic priorities to her and immediate neighbours and Indian Ocean Island states, India to provide all essential requirements of her immediate neighbours as needed by them, to promote greater connectivity and integration in the Indian subcontinent to ensure a free flow of goods and services, people, capital etc., and to establish an India-led regionalism in the neighbourhood. The neighbouring countries had tried to check and restrict India geopolitically and geo- economically through the overt or covert strategic relationships with the extra-regional powers. China’s assertive, and often aggressive, behaviour has been viewed as a huge challenge for India because it opens up the likelihood of China dominating India’s immediate neighbourhood. The “neighborhood first” policy is the striking feature of Modi government’s diplomatic approach. In his government’s strategic imagination, India’s relations with neighboring countries must receive topmost priority. If India does not resolve its differences with its small neighbors, it will only pave the way for China to exert growing influence in the region.
The Effect of Insecticide, Monocrotophos in Dividing Cells of Allium cepal and Study of its Mitotic Index
Authors: Oli Tek Bahadur
Published: November 2024

The effect of moncrotophos, insecticidehas been studied in root tip of Allium cepa. The study shows that monocrotophos induced mitodespersive effect and cytological abnormalities. The abnormalities like plasmolysed cells, c-metaphase, stickymetaphase, precociousarms, laggard, bridge, fragmentation of chromosomes, delayed cytokinesis and bi and tri nucleated were observed.The mitotic index, prophase index, metaphase index and anaphase and telo phase index were obtained.
Livelihood Impacts of Micro-Hydro Electricity Project of Rural People of Nepal
Authors: Dahal Ananta Raj
Published: November 2024

Micro-Hydropower (MHP) is generally defined as a decentralized small scale water power plant that generate electricity power up to 100kw and server nearby householders thoughts a local grid for power generation up to 100kw. This study analyzes the livelihood impacts of the micro-hydro electricity projects of the rural people on Taplejung district of Nepal. There are twelve micro hydroelectricity projects constructed as well as they generated and supply the electricity power of the local people without connected in national grid of the NEA. Primary data were used for the study for the information and descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. To measure livelihood impacts of the project, different indicators like housing and sanitation condition, electricity used, industrial situation, agro-product pricing and wage rate of the labour had been used. The completion of the different MHPs in the sample area shows the result that the MHPs had positive impacts upon the surrounding community people’s income and living standard, which shows the positive impacts on their livelihood in the Taplejung district. The result encourages the different stages of governance as well as other investors for the implementation of the micro-hydroelectricity project in the situation of the Nepalese context.
Prevalence of Online Learning: Adoption and Impact of Virtual Learning among Management Graduates in Nepalese Higher Education
Authors: Chaudhary Manoj Kumar , Adhikari Madhav , Shrestha Mikha
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the prevalence and impact of online learning in Nepalese higher education institutions, focusing on the experiences of students and faculty from various perspectives, including student, faculty, technological, and overall effectiveness. Using a purposive sampling approach, respondents were selected to gain deeper insights into the realities of online learning. The research was conducted across four universities with more than ten years of experience and active management programs. The findings reveal that the rise of online education has significantly shifted the perceptions of both faculty and students regarding the platform's efficacy. However, it was also discovered that Nepalese students find online instruction to be less engaging and connected compared to traditional methods. The study highlights the positive aspect of the pandemic in opening doors to alternative educational methods, suggesting that this could be the beginning of a significant shift in educational practices. The effectiveness of online classes requires thoughtful design and preparation by all stakeholders involved in the education system.In these uncertain times, it is crucial to understand the strategies and plans of management institutions concerning online education. The insights provided by this study are valuable for stakeholders in formulating future strategies for online learning.