bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Communication of Private University Services During the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Wiwitan Tresna , Yulianita Neni , Novita Sophia
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study was to examine and analyze the communication of private university services during the Covid-19 pandemic. This research study was motivated by the Covid-19 pandemic that occurred in Indonesia and had a direct impact on various people’s lives, including the world of education in universities. The online learning process in the form of distance lectures is an alternative and a must in conducting lectures for students. Various problems arise when universities must carry out all activities online so that communication services at universities during the Covid- 19 pandemic are important, where students do not meet directly with lecturers and education staff. The research method used in this study was qualitative with a case study approach at universities that are partners of Universitas Islam Bandung at the Region IV Higher Education Service Institute, West Java, and Banten. The selection of research objects was carried out purposively and subjectively based on the National Accreditation Board for Higher Education, namely Universitas Sangga Buana, Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Komunikasi Bandung, and Sekolah Tinggi Administrasi Sebelas April Sumedang. Data collection techniques are in-depth interviews with informants involved in service communication at selected private universities, observation, and literature study. The results showed that the communication of services carried out by private universities with students used e-learning, Zoom, Google meet, and Whatsapp groups. Barriers to online service communication occur when the internet network does not support it and many students go offline and do not comply with the health protocol.
Keywords: service communication, relationship management, covid-19 pandemic
Entrepreneurship Development of Women Farmers Luhur Lestari Group in RT 01 RW 02 Cipicung Village, Baleendah District, Bandung Regency
Authors: Renosori Puti , Prasetyaningsih Endang , . Selamat , Arif Nurrahman Ahmad
Published: October 2023

The main objective of the entrepreneurship development program at KWT Luhur Lestari is to utilize the potential of existing resources into productive activities that add value to the family economy. The first program was carried out by improving organic waste management, namely composting waste as well as urban farming with the organic tower garden (OTG) method. The second program was to improve culinary business skills in processing crops, especially cassava. So far, most of the crops are sold raw to collectors at low prices or processed into traditional foods. The method applied in implementing this community empowerment program is the participatory approach method, which means that partners are involved in every stage of the activity. The activities carried out are improving food processing skills, training in simple financial administration, and online marketing. Improvement of skills is done by the direct practice of making food so that the food has a good taste, is more interesting, creative, halal and thayyib (good for body health). This empowerment program has succeeded in increasing the entrepreneurship of “sublime sustainable” KWT members. KWT “sublime sustainable” has created a business division, whose members are active in entrepreneurship. Furthermore, assistance is carried out through discussions to overcome obstacles, evaluation of business activities, and food diversification. This empowerment has improved the family economy and KWT.
Keywords: empowerment, OTG, entrepreneurship
Performance Measurement of Zakat Utilization: The Effectiveness of Zakat Distribution
Authors: Fadilah Sri , Sundaya Yuhka , Lestari Rini , Rosdiana Yuni , Maemunah Mey , Ali Azlan , K Rashidah , Farhan J Muhammad
Published: October 2023

In this study, we will examine the performance of zakat. The background of the research is the zakat utilization program as one of the programs in the zakat intermediation role, performance must be assessed to see the sustainability of the program. One of them is the effectiveness of the zakat distribution program. The research method used is a case study of zakat programs (BAZNAS) in West Java area, with a descriptive analysis approach. Data collection techniques used were observation, in-depth interviews and documentation. The results of this study are expected to be an innovation that becomes a reference for zakat institution managers to assess the performance of zakat utilization by looking at the effectiveness of the zakat distribution program. Zakat distribution program at BAZNAS of West Java focuses on the economy, health, and education. BAZNAS of West Java is distributed for da’wah and the victims of natural disasters. Zakat utilization at BAZNAS of West Java covers the fields of economy, health, and education. In carrying out the role as a zakat distributor, BAZNAS of West Java still encounters obstacles that hinder the effectiveness of the zakat distribution program. Many measurements are used to assess the effectiveness of its role in zakat distribution, including the implementation of standard operating procedures (SOP).
Keywords: effectiveness, zakat utilization, zakat
Social Media Use Education of Digital Marketing for Disabled Women Community
Authors: Maryani Anne , Junita Triwardhani Ike , Rachmawati Indri , Pratama Putra Raditya
Published: October 2023

The research background stems from the extensive opportunities provided by the internet, serving diverse interests within the community. The integration of new media in business has yielded significant results, bolstering the development of businesses within the community. This inclusivity extends to individuals with disabilities, particularly women, who possess the right to harness new media for creative self-development and empowerment. The research aims to: 1) comprehend how creative women with disabilities in Bandung perceive online marketing communication principles, 2) assess the ability of disabled women in Bandung to grasp online marketing communication applications, and 3) enhance the skills of disabled women in crafting creative messages for online marketing. The study employs a descriptive method with total sampling drawn from participants of social media marketing training. Data collection utilizes questionnaires, interviews, and references. The significance of entrepreneurship development training utilizing marketing communication applications for disabled women in Bandung is evident. The conclusion of this study indicate that the majority of learners comprehend the training content, albeit hindered by diverse disabilities such as blindness, deafness, and physical limitations. Consequently, a specialized approach is necessary to address these disparities. Furthermore, participants are equipped with supporting applications for content packaging and dissemination. This empowers them to navigate different digital media platforms adeptly. Communication prowess, attractive content, and design are paramount for conveying persuasive messages effectively. Participants’ reported improved communication skills as a result of the training. However, those facing physical constraints encountered difficulties and required tailored training to accommodate their limitations. In summary, the research underscores the potential of online marketing communication education for women with disabilities. This empowers them to engage in entrepreneurial endeavors, fostering personal growth and community development.
Keywords: education, online marketing communication, women with disabilities.
Digital Business Communication in Islamic Perspective on New Entrepreneurship in the Catering Service Sector
Authors: Wiwitan Tresna , Yulianita Neni , Yuningsih Ani , Kurniadi Oji , Subur Drajat M.
Published: October 2023

Business competition in the digital era causes traditional entrepreneurs to try to develop their businesses by utilizing and maximizing new patterns in building their businesses online. Many businesses use digital or online media to support their business development, for example, by displaying creative content in the form of advertising, publicity, advertorials, direct marketing, and others on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Tiktok, and the other social media. This study on digital business communication was carried out on 14 students and members of the Ulul Albab Islamic Boarding School who participated in the new entrepreneurship development training in the field of catering through the use of social media as a business medium, in order to improve their competence. The descriptive method is used to assess the level of knowledge of the members following training. Data were collected using pre and post-test instruments, focus group discussions with three participants, interviews with administrators, and observations during the training. The results of measuring the effectiveness of the training revealed that it was successful in increasing the knowledge and skills of the participants, the Ulul Albab Islamic Boarding School students, in the areas of creative content, creative photos, digital business communication ethics, and business communication from an Islamic perspective. Social media is used in business, the content consists of food service products produced in Islamic boarding schools.
Keywords: online media, online business, catering service sector, Pesantren
Short-Term Outcomes of Carotid Artery Stenting versus Carotid Endarterectomy in the Treatment of Carotid Stenosis: An Up-Dated Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: AYDEMİR İzzet , DOĞAN İhsan , ESATOĞLU Afsun Ezel
Published: October 2023

Aim: Carotid artery stenting is thought to result in better outcomes when compared to carotid endarterectomy. To evaluate this hypothesis, a far-reaching of published randomized controlled trials were performed to evaluate the short-term outcomes of carotid artery stenting versus carotid endarterectomy for patients undergoing carotid artery stenosis.

Material and Methods: A comprehensive search of trials published from 1994 until December 31, 2022, was performed using Science Direct, PubMed, Web of Science, Sage, Ebscohost, Scopus, and Cochrane Central electronic databases. Major endpoints (any stroke, myocardial infarction, and all-cause mortality) were extracted from the publications. Pooled risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated using a fixed-effects model.

Results: 21 trials involving 15518 patients (8514 with stenting, 7004 with endarterectomy) were included in the meta-analysis. Stenting was associated with a significantly increased risk of short-term any stroke (RR=1.555, 95% CI: 1.307-1.851, p
Las crines del Unicornio
Authors: Arrese Igor Blas
Published: October 2023

El artículo analiza el proceso de creación de ROSA CICLAMEN, obra de teatro escrita y dirigida por el director y dramaturgo Blas Arrese Igor.
Dos yōkais à pelúcia: a influência de monstros no Studio Ghibli
Authors: Calcagno Horta Lilia Nogueira
Published: October 2023

Studio Ghibli es un estudio de animación japonés que cuenta con innumerables fans a lo largo de su historia.
Evolución de los consumos de indumentaria de moda online. Lo que la pandemia nos dejó
Authors: Nannini Victoria
Published: October 2023

En el último lustro, el comportamiento de la población consumidora de indumentaria de moda online se ha reproducido de manera inconmensurable.
Arte y Praxis Curatorial: posibilidades de agencia y politicidad decolonial
Authors: Pereira Scudeller Pedro de Assis
Published: October 2023

Este artículo pretende proponer una reflexión sobre la curaduría de arte como locus de disputa simbólica y sus posibilidades de agencia en el campo de las artes.
A Design Thinking Based Proposal for Self-guided Adaptative Visits to Cultural Facilities
Authors:   University of Vigo, González-González Jaime
Published: October 2023

Nowadays, with all the advances in technology, access to information should be universal. But this is far from being true, especially if we focus on the access to cultural information. People with complex communication needs, low education levels, migrants, or not familiar with the culture of reference find problems accessing this kind of information to the point of not considering cultural resources a leisure alternative. In the Erasmus+ KA204 Allure project, one of its intellectual outputs was to find a solution to this problem. Through a Design Thinking process carried out by people working in cultural entities in a real museum with visitors, we found three solutions to improve accessibility to cultural events. In this paper we will explain all this process and detail the solution selected, an app for self-guided tours to museums with the ability to be adapted to the communication needs or cognitive or education level of the visitor.
КРЕПОСТЬ НИКОЛАЕВ В СИСТЕМЕ ОБОРОНЫ ГАЛИЧИНЫ ВО ВТОРОЙ ПОЛОВИНЕ ХІХ – НАЧАЛЕ ХХ ВЕКA
Authors: Voitovych Leontiy
Published: October 2023

В статье рассматривается подготовка к обороне Галичины во второй половине XIX - начале XX века на примере строительства и использования Николаевской крепости на Днестре. Были представлены планы оборонительных сооружений, а также принципиальные изменения, которые претерпела фортификация в рассматриваемый период. Также было представлено создание новой инфраструктуры вокруг крепости, т.е. строительство железнодорожной ветки и дорог с твердым покрытием. Существенное влияние на ход работ оказали изменения политической обстановки, особенно в австрийско-русских отношениях, деятельность русской разведки и т. д. Особое внимание уделено событиям вокруг крепости во время военных действий в Галичине в 1914 г. и во время польско-украинской войны 1918–1919 гг. Большое внимание уделялось военачальникам, действовавшим на этом направлении, генералам: Францу Конраду фон Гётцендорфу, Эдуарду Бём-Эрмоли, Алексею Брусилову, Антону Деникину и другим. Представлены обстоятельства взятия крепости русской армией и ходе боев в районе Николаева. Эта крепость является одним из наиболее хорошо сохранившихся памятников фортификационных сооружений Первой мировой войны на територии Украины.
Черновицкий национальный университет имени Юрия Федьков
Authors: Piatnychuk Taras
Published: October 2023

В статье рассматривается проблема рецепции итогов и уроков испано-американской войны 1898 г. сквозь концепцию «морской силы». Её идеолог, американский капитан Альфред Тайер Мэхэн, считал, что залогом могущества и процветания великой державы является наличие боеспособного военного флота. Следовательно, Соединенным Штатам, которым Мэхэн также отводил место среди могущественнейших держав мира, следовало активно наращивать свои ВМС. Война с Испанией не только подтвердила верность идей Мэхэна, но и позволила капитану дополнить свою концепцию дополнительными тезисами, изложенными в книге «Уроки войны с Испанией: и другие статьи». Отмечая успешное завершение боевых действий на суше и на море, Мэхэн указывал на серьёзные просчеты, которые следовало исправить как можно скорее. В частности, правительству США следовало позаботиться об улучшении своих прибрежных укреплений. В случае выбора Испанией тактики налетов на прибрежные города урон, понесенный США, был бы колоссальным. Среди прочих проблем, на которые Мэхэн обращал внимание, было увеличение количества кораблей военно-морского флота и армии. Для достижения этой цели следовало не только выделять дополнительные ассигнации, но и проводить среди населения соответствующую пропаганду. Анализируя состав военно-морского флота США, капитан рекомендовал в дальнейшем делать акцент на строительстве двух типов кораблей. Первым из них были линкоры, которым Мэхэн отводил основную роль в морских сражениях. Крейсера, лишенные брони, должны были служить в качестве поддержки последних. Одновременно Мэхэн утверждал, что от конструирования более старых типов кораблей, коими были мониторы, следовало отказаться вообще.
British Diplomatic and Military Preparations for the Pacific War from 17 October to 7 December 1941
Authors: Mordzak Adam
Published: October 2023

The assumption of the post of Prime Minister of Japan by General Tojo Hideki on 17 October 1941 was interpreted in London as a prelude to further aggressive actions on the part of Tokyo. The purpose of this article is to examine what steps the British government took to prepare for a potential confrontation in diplomatic and military fields. A key reinforcement of British forces was the creation of the Far East Fleet squadron intended to serve as a primary deterrent, which was done at the expense of weakening the position of the British Navy in other areas. In contrast, land troops in the Malay region received only token support. The Air Force was in the worst position, as there were far too few aircraft for defensive purposes and they were not of the best quality. However, due to the involvement on other fronts and supplying military equipment to the Soviet Union, it was impossible to deliver more weapons to Southeast Asia. In the area of diplomacy, the main effort was directed at securing guarantees of support from the United States. However, due to the Neutrality Acts and the general reluctance of the American public to participate in the war, only verbal promises of assistance were obtained. Cooperation with the Dutch East Indies authorities went much better and they remained the most important ally for the British Empire in the area. In addition, attempts were made to enlist the cooperation of Thailand, but London’s offer to that country remained extremely unattractive, as the British were unable to provide guarantees of territorial integrity for the Thais. All these factors, combined with a misreading of Japanese intentions, meant that Britain entered the armed conflict with Japan poorly prepared, leading to the defeat at the Battle of Malaya and the fall of Singapore.
La representación escrita de /ʎ/ y /ʝ/ en cartas del español neogranadino
Authors: Díaz Romero Camilo Enrique
Published: October 2023

Se hace una revisión de 293 documentos epistolares procedentes del corpus Documentos para la Historia Lingüística de Colombia (DHLC) (ICC, 2017-2020) frente a la representación escrita de /ʎ/ y /ʝ/ y sus disposiciones con (QGIS.org, 2022), y sin georreferenciación (i.e. con distinción sobre usuarios semicultos y cultos). Respecto de resultados sin georreferenciar, se identifican registros de vacilación entre los grafemas para las dos consonantes palatales con aumento de la tendencia en el siglo XVIII. En cuanto a lo georreferenciado, los primeros testimonios de vacilación se encuentran en el norte neogranadino durante la segunda mitad del siglo XVII y se van extendiendo al interior en el siglo XVIII
'Is Transparency Enough? An Examination of the Effect of the Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (EITI) on Accountability, Corruption and Trust in Zambia
Authors: East Sidonie
Published: October 2023

The Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (EITI) is the leading global transparency standard for the extractive industry. It aims to improve governance standards in the extractive industry by providing a public platform for information sharing and multi-stakeholder dialogue. However, the success of the initiative has been brought into question by numerous scholars. This paper aims to shed new light on this work by presenting a unique analytical framework. The framework hypothesises that improved transparency, through the EITI, can lead to improved extractive industry governance: increased accountability, reduced corruption and increased trust. However, this improvement of governance can only take place when combined with three scope conditions: 1) transparency condition, 2) publicity condition, and 3) accountability condition. The paper applies this framework to the single case study of Zambia, and finds that the EITI has failed to meaningfully improve these three governance outcomes in the extractive industry in Zambia. The paper argues that the reason for this is that none of the three necessary scope conditions are sufficiently present. The paper advocates for policymakers to support the growth of these three conditions in contexts of poor extractive industry governance, to ensure transparency standards have meaningful impact.
Przemiany w otoczeniu człowieka a aksjologiczny punkt odniesienia w edukacji dla bezpieczeństwa
Authors: Pieczywok Andrzej
Published: October 2023

The content of the article points to an important area of human security, as it concerns education for security from an axiological perspective. Contemporary man is increasingly lost in his identity. The constant lack of time for reflection, to place oneself among other people and among the surrounding things, means that a person is sometimes surrounded by threats with which he cannot cope. Therefore, values are a determinant of conscious and targeted action for a person. They influence his behavior, make decisions, and also contribute to building a sense of security. The article consists of four parts: the introduction, the location of values in the axiology of security, the importance of values in education for security, and the ending.
Edukacja dla bezpieczeństwa – spotkanie uniwersyteckiej teorii i aktualnej praktyki
Authors: Raduła Michał
Published: October 2023

The notion of “safety” is least defined. However, safety is a condition, which create ability to realize different tasks. Danger, instability, makes tasks harder or even impossible. Keep or restore safety is strictly connected with education on this field. Only knowledge and competences, how to prevent and fight with danger, can make sure, that safety is ensured.
Ochotnicze straże pożarne zasługują na odrębną ustawę
Authors: Ręcławowicz Stanisław
Published: October 2023

Establish the State Fire Service Act and the Voluntary Fire Brigades Act, although made in long time distance, was proceeding in similar atmosphere. The Voluntary Fire Brigades Act regulate the situation of social organisations, which have a status of association. Voluntary Fire Brigades, as well as State Fire Service, are responsible for rescue activity, but also their activity is focused on local communities.
Jednostka w systemie bezpieczeństwa powszechnego – zagadnienia wybrane
Authors: Mielczarek-Mikołajów Justyna
Published: October 2023

The concept of general security is understood as a condition in society that conditions its proper functioning and is aimed at the protection of such values as, inter alia, life, health, property of citizens, political system or state sovereignty. Tasks in this area are performed primarily by public administration bodies. It should be noted, however, that the protection of these values is also the responsibility of the individual. Due to this, the author will draw attention to selected provisions of the Constitution of the Republic of Poland on the 2 of April of 1997 and certain acts, as well as the need to shape a safety culture among the society.
Zapobieganie zagrożeniom epidemicznym i ich zwalczanie oraz organizacja pomocy medycznej na przykładzie działalności jednostek administracji publicznej z uwzględnieniem doświadczeń zwalczania epidemii COVID-19 – uwagi wstępne
Authors: Susło Robert , Paplicki Mateusz
Published: October 2023

Recognition of emerging threats and possibly early detection and effective reporting of the risk of a given health threat may determine the effectiveness of the fight against various types of epidemics. The effectiveness of anti-epidemic measures is related to the effectiveness of the health care system and the effectiveness of epidemiological supervision. Effectively conducted epidemiological supervision allows for early detection of epidemics of infectious diseases and early introduction of activities and procedures developed by public administration units. The events of 2020-2021 have painfully reminded the world of how infectious diseases affect the daily functioning and even the physical survival of society, or rather the efficiency in preventing their occurrence and limiting their spread when they occur. The statistics of deaths due to diagnosed COVID-19 cases question the effectiveness and efficiency of the current solutions in preventing, limiting the range and treating infectious diseases.
Prawne warunki wyposażenia ochotniczej straży pożarnej w składniki rzeczowe przez gminę
Authors: Błażewski Maciej
Published: October 2023

The community and the voluntary fire brigade cooperate to ensure fire protection. The forms of cooperation are: a lending communal real estate or movable property, a subsidy and a discount on the purchase of real estate. The volunteer fire brigade should use movable property and real estate to ensure fire protection. The commune has legal means to ensure the correct use of them.
Współpraca Państwowej Straży Pożarnej i ochotniczych straży pożarnych – wybrane aspekty (wg stanu prawnego na 31.08.2021 r.)
Authors: Ziobro Jan
Published: October 2023

The contemporary environment of human existence is characterized by the intensification of the occurrence of dangerous situations (events), causing a threat to his life, health, material goods, as well as the environment in which he functions and from which he draws the necessary ingredients for life. More and more numerous fires, floods, storms, technical failures, accidents about which the media constantly informs, are threats that affect people on a daily basis, causing death, injury, as well as material and environmental damage. Due to the variety of the nature of these threats and the scale of their impact and negative effects, effective combating requires multidimensional cooperation of all authorities and institutions responsible for ensuring and maintaining public safety. Various entities (public, economic, social) are involved in helping in the abovementioned crisis situations in Poland. Fire protection units constitute their specific group, the main purpose of which is to prevent their formation and spread, and to organize and conduct rescue operations at the time of their materialization. A special role is played by the State Fire Service, which as a public entity is responsible for the entirety of fire protection in the country (prevention and combating), and Voluntary Fire Brigades, which, in cooperation with this formation, undertake various activities aimed at ensuring the level of general safety expected by the societal safety. The study presents a diagnosis of the areas of cooperation of the above-mentioned entities and problems in its synergistic course, as well as a proposal of solutions enabling its tightening in order to improve the effects obtained.
Dolnośląska Sieć Szerokopasmowa. Teleinformatyka jako element integracyjny w systemie bezpieczeństwa
Authors: Sobieraj Grzegorz
Published: October 2023

The currently observed security threats, compared to those from a few years ago, have become much stronger and occupy larger areas. Services whose save lives, health and property deal with a much more dynamic process of disposing of forces, managing a rescue operation, and subsequent analysis of events in order to improve efficiency. The entire process, serving to protect citizens or respond to threats, is more often supported by ICT systems that enable quick aggregation, transmission, collection and analysis of data and, as a result, making faster decisions. Currently, each of the services has teleinformatic systems that enable them to automate data processing, which is important for management of a rescue operation. The tools used, especially in pandemic, have shown that their application has worked well and it is natural that they are constantly being modified. ICT networks are used to exchange information between ICT systems. Unfortunately, more often the development of ICT systems mentions only data processing devices and supporting applications, forgetting about the transmission medium through which these systems and applications exchange data. It turns out that you do not need to build a backbone network from the beginning, and it is more effective to add them to the existing solutions.
FIRST RECORD OF AULAGROMYZA HERINGII (DIPTERA AGROMYZIDAE) AND EVIDENCE OF ITS PARASITOID LAMPROTATUS CRASSIPES (HYMENOPTERA PTEROMALIDAE) FROM IRAN
Authors: KAZERANI FARZANEH , von TSCHIRNHAUS MICHAEL , LOTFALIZADEH HOSSEIN , FARAHANI SAMIRA
Published: October 2023

Aulagromyza heringii (Hendel) is a widespread leaf miner fly all over Europe, Turkey, Kyrgyzstan, Russia and China of Fraxinus excelsior. Infested leaves with leaf-miner larvae were collected from F. excelsior in Tehran province in 2016. During laboratory rearing, adult flies and parasitoids were obtained and identified. We present here the first recorded instance of Lamprotatus crassipes Thomson, 1876 (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) serving as a parasitoid of Aulagromyza heringii, and also report the first occurrence of both A. heringii and the genus Lamprotatus Walker, 1843 in Iran. Diagnoses for Aulagromyza heringii and Lamprotatus crassipes are given along with photos. A brief overview of their biological features is also included. Key Words: first record, Fraxinus, leaf-miner, Iran, Microgasterini, parasitoids.
Granulometry, carbonate and glauconite content as stratigraphic tools to distinguish the Kiel Member and lower Antwerpen Member (Berchem Formation) in the City of Antwerp area (Belgium)
Authors: DECKERS Jef , DE KONINCK Roel , EVERAERT Stijn , ADRIAENS Rieko , VERHAEGEN Jasper
Published: October 2023

Granulometric, carbonate and glauconite analyses were performed on samples of the Kiel and Antwerpen members (Berchem Formation) in temporary exposures and boreholes in the area of the City of Antwerp. Since the upper part of the Antwerpen Member is only locally preserved from post-depositional erosion, this study focuses on the much more frequently sampled lower part of the Antwerpen Member. The granulometric results show that the Kiel Member and lower part of the Antwerpen Member are both dominated by the fine sand fraction, with an overall finer grain size for the lower Antwerpen Member compared to the Kiel Member. The Kiel Member is relatively enriched in the fine and medium sand fractions, whereas the lower Antwerpen Member is relatively enriched in the very fine sand to silt fraction. Both members show a similar, low clay content. Measurements of clay content are higher in boreholes (on average 3.9–5.2%) than in temporary exposures (less than 1%), which might be explained by the crushing of the glauconite into the clay fraction during drilling. In borehole samples, especially those analysed by sieving, the Antwerpen Member often shows a higher amount of coarse grains than the Kiel Member, which represent shell fragments present in the Antwerpen Member and nearly absent in the Kiel Member. Like the amounts of shells, also the measured carbonate content—measured outside the shell beds—is lower for the Kiel Member than for the lower Antwerpen Member (3% vs 4.2%). The average glauconite content—based on the >63 µm fraction—displays similar, strong fluctuations between 35% and 60% for both members. On top of these fluctuations, a general downward decrease in glauconite content is noticed in the Kiel Member.
Use of Artificial Intelligence in Breast Cancer: Current Approach
Authors: YILMAZ Arda Şakir
Published: October 2023

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among women worldwide and is still a major cause of death. More than 2 million women are diagnosed with breast cancer annually. Artificial intelligence has great potential in breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and management. In addition to traditional imaging techniques, the analysis of genetic data is used by artificial intelligence in the process of breast cancer diagnosis. In addition, artificial intelligence plays an important role in treatment planning and follow-up of patients. Data analytics and extensive data integration also contribute to developments in this field. However, the audit and ethical responsibilities of artificial intelligence applications should be considered.
The role of exosomes in therapeutic resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Jin , Yang Yali , Lu Jingyi , Wang Xia
Published: October 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) stands as one of the most prevalent malignant tumors globally. Despite considerable advancements in HCC therapies, therapeutic resistance remains a significant challenge that compromises patient prognosis. Increasing evidence indicates that exosomes, which are secreted by cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), are pivotal players in the development of therapeutic resistance in HCC. These nano-sized vesicles mediate intercellular communication in TME through the transfer of bioactive molecules such as nucleic acids, lipids, and proteins. A comprehensive understanding of the role of exosomes in therapeutic resistance could provide promising strategies for both the diagnosis and treatment of HCC. This review mainly summarizes the involvement of exosomal cargos and elucidates their underlying mechanisms in resistance to therapeutic treatments for HCC, and further discusses the potential clinical applications of exosomes as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets to overcome drug resistance in HCC.
Towards improvement of hydroprocessing catalysts - understanding the role of advanced mineral materials in hydroprocessing catalysts
Authors: Majodina Siphumelele , Poswayo Olwethu , Dembaremba Tendai O. , Tshentu Zenixole R.
Published: October 2023

Mineral materials play a pivotal in heterogeneous catalysts as active, support, or promoter components, with the oil refinery industry being one of the biggest beneficiaries. While conventional hydroprocessing catalysts have historically met the industry’s needs, the growing need to accommodate unique feedstocks, meet the increasing demand for environmentally acceptable products, obtain better product specifications, enhance selectivity for reactions to increase ratios for certain product cuts, and use more cost-effective and abundant mineral materials, has recently motivated for fresh considerations in the development of hydroprocessing catalysts. Based on periodic trends, noble metals possess the most desirable qualities, but their relative abundance in the Earth’s crust is too low to meet industry needs. They are costly and highly sensitive to sulfur poisoning. Mo and W lie in the sweet spot, but it is anticipated that they cannot meet the increasing demand. Investigations of electronic interactions of more economical and abundant metals, such as Nb, V, and Fe, with other elements and support materials have yielded a better understanding of synergistic effects that help to access noble metal-like qualities. This work contrasts conventional hydroprocessing catalysts and recently improved catalysts, detailing the chemistry considerations behind the selection of mineral materials used in the catalysts. It also explores how further manipulation of these mineral materials and synthesis approaches is driving toward more desirable properties. The work brings to the attention of the readers the challenges and opportunities for the further improvement of hydroprocessing catalysts to ensure environmental sustainability while meeting the industry’s growing needs.
The influence of culture and gender differences in communication: society’s perception
Authors: Enaifoghe Andrew
Published: October 2023

The study looked at how the differences in gender and the social setting affect society's perceptions of women’s ability to communicate as leaders. Research shows how culture influences individual thinking, language, communication, and behaviour. The study indicated that gender construct influences individuals’ attitudes, emotions, and behaviours. The same is true for assigned positions in society depending on gender and leadership position. The problem identified cultural aspects of leadership that represent variations in gender norms and communication styles for women in leadership and elements linked to sexual distinction. This article, therefore, focuses on the problems that culture influences gender communication. The research adopted a qualitative approach, a systematic analysis of the literature of the baseline data collected, forming part of a randomised controlled sample collection. The findings indicate the persistent gender discrepancies in communication in several contexts, as women prefer to use more concrete vocabulary in several contexts, emphasising how people can achieve goals, including specifics, and using terms that are easy to imagine. It is no mystery that we are in a period of transformation, and attitudes about sex and gender leadership are changing, therefore, understanding the problems of sexual difference and women’s ability to communicate in leadership can be addressed by creating and strengthening an adequate framework with the condition of a mentality change.
Monitoring and evaluation as critical approach to enhance the performance of local government: South Africa
Authors: Mabizela Hlengiwe , Zwane Zwelithini
Published: October 2023

The present study undertakes an analysis of monitoring and evaluation as a pragmatic methodology for enhancing the efficacy of municipalities in the context of South Africa. Research findings indicate that a significant obstacle faced by South African municipalities is the issue of substandard performance. These aspects can be linked to several reasons, such as inadequate allocation of resources, limitations in capacity, and deficiencies in monitoring and assessment processes. This article posits that the use of monitoring and evaluation (M&E) is crucial in addressing instances of suboptimal performance within municipalities. There exists a necessity to enhance the monitoring and evaluation (M&E) systems in order to attain efficient performance management and ensure the provision of high-quality service delivery. The research was conducted among three distinct municipalities, namely Amajuba, uThukela, and uMgungundlovu, located in the province of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). The sample population comprised of municipal officials belonging to the Performance Management System (PMS) and Corporate Services units. The study employed a qualitative methodology and deliberately selected important participants who possessed knowledge and a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter under investigation. Furthermore, it is worth noting that the sample size consisted of 20 people. The researchers organized focus group conversations in order to gather data, which was subsequently controlled through the utilization of the NVivo software application. The findings of the study indicate that monitoring and evaluation (M&E) is a crucial component in enhancing the performance of local government. Its primary purpose is to establish the essential circumstances for achieving greater levels of performance that are sustainable over an extended period. Municipalities are required to demonstrate a firm dedication to the prioritization and adoption of municipal monitoring and evaluation (M&E) as an essential tool for facilitating progressive local governance. This commitment involves the institutionalization of M&E practices, the enforcement of mandatory adherence to established systems and procedures, the integration of information technology systems to enhance and fortify the implementation of M&E, and the utilization of participatory M&E approaches to assess the effectiveness of municipal functions and development endeavors.
Corporate Social Responsibility from an Islamic Perspective: An Overview
Authors: Moosa Riyad
Published: October 2023

This paper aims to provide an overview of corporate social responsibility (CSR) from an Islamic perspective. The discussion includes an overview on aspects such as CSR activities, CSR and the environment, CSR and marketing, CSR and stakeholders, CSR benefits and challenges and CSR research conducted in various countries. The research is based on a narrative review, considering selected literature relevant to the topic. In general, the study concludes that engaging in CSR does not violate the Sharia, however, there are numerous challenges in implementing and reporting on the impact of CSR activities. Thus, more studies of an empirical nature are needed to understand CSR in the context of the Islamic financial system.
Pondering over the nexus between internship programme and skills development: insights from past and present interns
Authors: Mabeba Selaelo John , Sebola Mokoko Piet , Chauke Khensani Richard , Mamokhere John
Published: October 2023

In South Africa, the internship programme was introduced under the Skills Development Act of 1998, with the primary goal of addressing the country's skills shortage and fostering the growth of a skilled workforce. This act laid the foundation for various skills development initiatives, including internships, aimed at enhancing employment prospects and facilitating the transfer and development of essential skills among graduates. As a result, the pursuit of internship programme has become a prevalent practice among university and college graduates in South Africa, as they recognize its significance in securing employment and acquiring the necessary skills. Considering this, the objective of this study was to examine the relationship between internship programme and skills development within three government departments in Limpopo Province. The research employed a quantitative research approach and collected empirical data using semi-structured questionnaires. Seventy-one (71) past and present interns from the three select government departments were surveyed between October and December 2019. The data collected were analysed using Microsoft Excel. The study's findings reveal a positive nexus between the internship programme and skills development. Interns were able to acquire a diverse range of skills.  The study recommends that there should be a rotational assignment as part of the internship programme to expose interns to different departments. Internship programme should serve as a valuable platform for the transfer and development of skills, providing interns with meaningful experiential learning opportunities.
Grade 3 teachers’ understanding of the implemented mathematics curriculum content
Authors: Galane Charlotte Myriam Moshala , Simon Bhekumuzi Khoza
Published: October 2023

This pragmatic action research explores Grade 3 teachers’ understanding of the implemented mathematics curriculum content. Exploring teachers’ understanding of the mathematics curriculum content is required because understanding of content determines how teachers teach, the resources they use, and how teachers assess. It should be noted that, over time, curriculum reforms take place; and these reforms impact not only on teachers’ knowledge, expertise, or motivation, but also on their understanding. Understanding, as synthesised by the researcher, is a planned, prescribed system of presenting one’s thoughts and expertise regarding a particular subject; in this case, mathematics. In exploring this phenomenon, six Grade 3 teachers from Nkangala District in Mpumalanga were purposefully sampled to be part of this study. Data was generated through two phases of reflective activities, observations, interviews, and a focus-group discussion. To answer the two research questions of this study, the generated data was analysed guided by the natural identity framework themes. Findings revealed that teachers’ understanding of the implemented mathematics curriculum content is mostly informed by a combination of their need to comply with the prescripts of policy and higher authority, common understanding to appease their societal needs, and individual understanding based on their experiences and beliefs. The study drew the conclusion that, for teachers to embrace the three propositions of understanding and  identities, teachers’ natural understanding identity should be promoted. This identity is underpinned by reflective practice and adaptation to what works in their day-to-day practice as teachers.
The impact of mental health promotion on coping mechanism among Grade 11 physical sciences learners in Nkandla Circuit
Authors: Mzobe Nondumiso Princess , Chinaka Taurayi Willard
Published: October 2023

This study examined the impact of mental health promotion on coping mechanisms among grade 11 Physical sciences learners. A poor coping mechanism is associated with poor mental health and poor academic performance due to inadequate mental health resources and services. Participants selected using a purposive sampling technique from the accessible population, 08 physical sciences educators and 109 Grade 11 learners from eight targeted schools in the Nkandla Circuit of the Empangeni district made up the sample. The study used a mixed approach and a triangulation research design. The questionnaires and interviews were used to collect data. Quantitative data collected were analyzed using SPSS version 27 and thematic analysis was used for interviews. The findings revealed that Physical sciences learners with mental health issues underperform because their coping mechanisms are compromised by inadequate mental health resources and services. The findings of this study are diagnostic, and they assist the Department of Education in improving learner support provided by school social workers in schools. Most participants indicated that school social workers visit the school less frequently, making it difficult to monitor the coping mechanisms of learners with mental health issues. Since most schools lack school social workers, the Department of Basic Education should assign more school social workers to assist learners with mental health issues. Further study is required to determine more academic coping mechanisms used by learners who have mental health issues under the supervision of school social workers. This suggests that if the inadequate supply of mental health support services and medical care were addressed seriously, the high proportion of poor coping mechanisms among grade 11 physical sciences learners with mental health would decrease.
Policy review of government regulation no. 55 of 2022 regarding regulations adjustment of income tax in the micro small medium enterprises (MSMEs)
Authors: Utthavi Wayan Hesadijaya , Abdi I Nyoman , Sumiari Kadek Nita , Wirayana I Made Adhi
Published: October 2023

This study aims to analyze GR No. 55 of 2022 with regulations that have an impact on previous regulations. The analysis technique used is qualitative with several approaches. The qualitative descriptive approach analysis technique analyzes the comparison of GR No. 55 of 2022 and the Miles and Hubermen approach analysis technique is used in the policy study of GR No. 55 of 2022. Data collection techniques by collaborating literature study techniques with in-depth interviews with academic and practitioner informants. The main findings of the study identified that a significant change in GR No. 55 of 2022 is the regulation of benefit-in-kind from non-taxable to taxable income. The determination of the value of benefit-in-kind can create room for disputes due to differences in perceptions arising from the valuation of benefit-in-kind based on the market price. This potential dispute becomes a reference for further regulation by the tax authority. The results of this study contribute to MSME taxpayers in fulfilling GR No. 55 of 2022 as an application of tax liability compliance.