bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
American Corporate Sustainability and Extra-Financial Performance: Is There an Inverted-U Relationship
Authors: Zghidi Nahed , Bousnina Rihab , Mokni Samarkand
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we explore the nexus between extra-financial performance (sustainable ESG) and firm performance within a sample of American firms from different vital sectors. In particular, we examine whether extra-financial performance has an effect on company performance. To this end, we have used a non-linear model. The study is based on a sample of 93 American companies over the period 2010–2019. We find that the association between extra-financial performance and firms’ financial performance is nonlinear, exhibiting an inverted U-shaped pattern. In particular, the results emphasize the importance of caution when pursuing ESG initiatives. Enterprise managers should monitor the effect of ESG activities on extra-financial performance and confirm the ESG threshold of their organization.
Geo-Hydrological Hazard Impacts, Vulnerability and Perception in Bujumbura (Burundi): A High-Resolution Field-Based Assessment in a Sprawling City
Authors: Nsabimana Jean , Henry Sabine , Ndayisenga Aloys , Kubwimana Désiré , Dewitte Olivier , Kervyn François , Michellier Caroline
Published: October 2023

Rapid urbanization, demographic pressure, and sprawl of cities are key factors in the vulnerability and damage related to geo-hydrological hazards. Dysfunctional urban services that favor informal settlements are at the forefront of elements that increase vulnerability. Cases of cities that suffer from geo-hydrological hazards are increasingly reported in many regions, especially in tropical countries in the Global South. Yet, studies on such examples are rare and commonly overlook the human and societal components of hazard risks. Here, we focus on Bujumbura, a city in Africa that has experienced rapid unplanned growth and sprawl into unserviced areas because of the non-application or a lack of a valid urban planning law. After filling in the gap in data collected using high-resolution field surveys and focus group discussions, this study highlights various factors of vulnerability to geo-hydrological hazards in the urban area. Indeed, 108 events of flood and flash floods and 81 gullies were inventoried in Bujumbura between 1997 and 2021. These geo-hydrological hazards have had a significant impact, particularly on housing, and have caused increasing displacement of the population. This vulnerability is exacerbated by the inefficiency of the rainwater drainage system in the urban space. Our result demonstrates how the failure of the institutions responsible for urban management is at the top of all the causes of the vulnerability of the sprawling city. We anticipate that our empirical approach is an effective way to obtain concrete information to develop practical strategies to prevent and mitigate vulnerability to geo-hydrological hazards in urban sprawling contexts.
An Analysis of the Content of Metalloproteinases in the Intestinal Wall of Patients with Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Chrzanowski Grzegorz , Pasternak Grzegorz , Aebisher David , Dynarowicz Klaudia , Myśliwiec Angelika , Bartusik-Aebisher Dorota , Sosna Barbara , Cieślar Grzegorz , Kawczyk-Krupka Aleksandra , Filip Rafał
Published: October 2023

One of the inflammatory bowel diseases is Crohn’s disease. Although this term has been used in the medical community since 1932, a significant increase in the number of publications occurs at the end of the 20th century and the beginning of the 21st century. Crohn’s disease is a disease that cannot be fully cured. In many cases, it is chronic, i.e., recurrent. All preventive and therapeutic measures taken by doctors are aimed at inhibiting the development of the disease and minimizing the occurrence of any potential “side effects” resulting from the developing disease. One of the diagnostic methods is the qualitative and quantitative determination of metalloproteinases in inflammatory tissues and in the blood. The aim of the study was the quantitative and qualitative determination of metalloproteinases in inflammatory bowel tissues in patients diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. The in vitro study was performed on surgical tissues from patients diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. The results show that in inflammatory tissues the concentration of metalloproteinases -3, -7, -8, -9 was higher compared to tissues taken from the resection margin without signs of inflammation, defined as healthy. The experiment confirmed that the biochemical test, which is the determination of metalloproteinases in tissues, is a useful diagnostic tool to differentiate inflammatory from non-inflammatory tissues.
A Modified Viscosity-Type Self-Adaptive Iterative Algorithm for Common Solution of Split Problems with Multiple Output Sets in Hilbert Spaces
Authors: Asad Mohd , Dilshad Mohammad , Filali Doaa , Akram Mohammad
Published: October 2023

A modified viscosity-type self-adaptive iterative algorithm is presented in this study, having a strong convergence theorem for estimating the common solution to the split generalized equilibrium problem along with the split common null point problem with multiple output sets, subject to some reasonable control sequence restrictions. The suggested algorithm and its immediate consequences are also discussed. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is finally demonstrated through analytical examples. The findings presented in this paper will help to consolidate, extend, and improve upon a number of recent findings in the literature.
A C-Arm-Free Minimally Invasive Technique for Spinal Surgery: Cervical and Thoracic Spine
Authors: Tanaka Masato , Zygogiannnis Konstantinos , Sake Naveen , Arataki Shinya , Fujiwara Yoshihiro , Taoka Takuya , de Moraes Modesto Thiago Henrique , Chatzikomninos Ioannis
Published: October 2023

Background and Objectives: C-arm-free MIS techniques can offer significantly reduced rates of postoperative complications such as inadequate decompression, blood loss, and instrumentation misplacement. Another advantageous long-term aspect is the notably diminished exposure to radiation, which is known to cause malignant changes. This study emphasizes that, in some cases of spinal conditions that require a procedural intervention, C-arm-free MIS techniques hold stronger indications than open surgeries guided by image intensifiers. Materials and Methods: This study includes a retrospective analysis and review of various cervical and thoracic spinal procedures, performed in our hospital, applying C-arm-free techniques. The course of this study explains the basic steps of the procedures and demonstrates postoperative and intraoperative results. For anterior cervical surgery, we performed OPLL resection, while for posterior cervical surgery, we performed posterior fossa decompression for Chiari malformation, minimally invasive cervical pedicle screw fixation (MICEPS), and modified Goel technique with C1 lateral mass screw for atlantoaxial subluxation. Regarding the thoracic spine, we performed anterior correction for Lenke type 5 scoliosis and transdiscal screw fixation for diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis fractures. Results: C-arm-free techniques are safe procedures that provide precise and high-quality postoperative results by offering sufficient spine alignment and adequate decompression depending on the case. Navigation can offer significant assistance in the absence of normal anatomical landmarks, yet the surgeon should always appraise the quality of the information received from the software. Conclusions: Navigated C-arm-free techniques are safe and precise procedures implemented in the treatment of surgically demanding conditions. They can significantly increase accuracy while decreasing operative time. They represent the advancement in the field of spine surgery and are hailed as the future of the same.
Preparation of Protein A Membrane Adsorbers Using Strain-Promoted, Copper-Free Dibenzocyclooctyne (DBCO)-Azide Click Chemistry
Authors: Osuofa Joshua , Husson Scott M.
Published: October 2023

Protein A chromatography is the preferred unit operation for purifying Fc-based proteins. Convective chromatography technologies, like membrane adsorbers, can perform the purification rapidly and improve throughput dramatically. While the literature reports the preparation of Protein A membrane adsorbers utilizing traditional coupling chemistries that target lysine or thiol groups on the Protein A ligand, this study demonstrates a new approach utilizing copper-free dibenzocyclooctyne (DBCO)-azide click chemistry. The synthetic pathway consists of three main steps: bioconjugation of Protein A with a DBCO-polyethylene glycol (PEG) linker, preparation of an azide-functionalized membrane surface, and click reaction of DBCO-Protein A onto the membrane surface. Using polyclonal human immunoglobulins (hIgG) as the target molecule, Protein A membranes prepared by this synthetic pathway showed a flowrate-independent dynamic binding capacity of ~10 mg/mL membrane at 10% breakthrough. Fitting of static binding capacity measurements to the Langmuir adsorption isotherm showed a maximum binding (qmax) of 27.48 ± 1.31 mg/mL and an apparent equilibrium dissociation constant (Kd) of value of 1.72 × 10−1 ± 4.03 × 10−2 mg/mL. This work represents a new application for copper-less click chemistry in the membrane chromatography space and outlines a synthetic pathway that can be followed for immobilization of other ligands.
Analysis of a Double Aging Process in a Maraging 300 Steel Fabricated by Selective Laser Melting, Using the Design of Experiments Technique
Authors: Pérez-Gonzalo Inés , González-Pociño Alejandro , Alvarez-Antolin Florentino , del Rio-Fernández Laura
Published: October 2023

This study aims to optimize the aging treatment of a maraging 300 steel, without prior austenitizing, manufactured by the selective laser melting (SLM) technique. The study includes the analysis of a double aging process. In addition, the impact of the aging treatment on corrosion resistance in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution was analyzed. The research technique followed was a factorial design of experiments with three factors and two levels, performing one replicate of each experiment. The results show that excellent mechanical properties can be achieved by omitting the solubilization treatment prior to aging. The highest hardness and tensile strength were achieved by performing a double aging at 460 °C for 8 h. Under these conditions, the maximum hardness exceeded 615 HV and the tensile strength was over 2140 MPa. Aging at 520 °C caused the formation of reverse austenite. The aging temperature was the only factor that had a significant effect on the formation of reverse austenite. It should be noted that the holding time at this temperature did not have a significant effect. The corrosion resistance, in 3.5 wt.% NaCl aqueous solution, increased in the aged samples compared to the as-printed sample. Samples overaged at 520 °C showed the best corrosion resistance. It can be concluded that the predominant cathodic reaction taking place is the reduction of oxygen dissolved in the electrolyte.
Investigation of the Lubrication Performance of γ-Al2O3/ZnO Hybrid Nanofluids for Titanium Alloy
Authors: Yang Ye , Luan Hao , Liu Fengbin , Si Lina , Yan Hongjuan , Zhang Chenhui
Published: October 2023

Titanium alloys are difficult to machine and have poor tribological properties. This paper investigates the lubricating performance of γ-Al2O3/ZnO hybrid nanofluids for Ti-6Al-4V. Pure and hybrid nanofluids are compared, and the effects of γ-Al2O3/ZnO ratios are studied. The results show that γ-Al2O3/ZnO hybrid nanofluids outperform pure nanofluids in terms of lower friction coefficients and better surface quality. Moreover, the hybrid nanofluid with a mass ratio of Al2O3 to ZnO of 2:1 demonstrates the best lubrication performance with a reduced friction coefficient of up to 22.1% compared to the base solution, resulting in improved surface quality. Al2O3 nanoparticles can adhere to the surface of ZnO nanoparticles and work as a coating, which further enhances the lubrication performance of the water-based nanofluid.
Effects of Hydrogen Bonds between Ethoxylated Alcohols and Sodium Oleate on Collecting Performance in Flotation of Quartz
Authors: Zhang Na , Li Jiajia , Kou Jue , Sun Chunbao
Published: October 2023

Hydrogen bonds play an important role in the interaction between surfactants. In this study, the effect of three different ethoxylated alcohols (OP-10, NP-10, AEO-9) on the collecting behavior of sodium oleate (NaOL) in the flotation of quartz was investigated. To explore the mechanism, the hydrogen bond between ethoxylated alcohols and NaOL was analyzed using molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. The results showed that ethoxylated alcohols promoted the collecting performance of NaOL and reduced the dosage of the activator CaO and the collector NaOL in the flotation of quartz. The Zeta potential measurement illustrated that ethoxylated alcohols promoted the adsorption of OL− on the activated quartz surface and the degree of promotion was in the order of OP-10 > NP-10 > AEO-9. The MD simulation results showed that a hydrogen bond presented between ethoxylated alcohols and OL−. Due to the hydrogen bond between the ethoxylated alcohols and OL−, the attraction force between OL− and the quartz surface increased with the addition of ethoxylated alcohols in the order of OP-10 > NP-10 > AEO-9 based on the MD simulation results. As the result, the addition of ethoxylated alcohols increased the adsorption density of OL− on the activated quartz surface, which explained the promotion of the collecting performance of OL− in the flotation of quartz.
Antibacterial Mechanism of Rhamnolipids against Bacillus cereus and Its Application in Fresh Wet Noodles
Authors: Niu Yongwu , Sun Yiming , Yang Yanxiao , Niu Ben , Wang Yuchen , Qiao Shan
Published: October 2023

Bacillus cereus (B. cereus) is a common foodborne pathogen causing food poisoning incidents. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity and underlying mechanism of rhamnolipids (RLs) against B. cereus. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of RLs for B. cereus were determined to be 16.0 mg/L and 32.0 mg/L, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy and fluorescence microscope images, as well as data of membrane potential, relative electric conductivity, and leakage of intracellular components revealed that RLs disrupted the integrity of the cell membrane. Furthermore, the reactive oxygen species content, catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity indicated that RLs activated the oxidative stress response of B. cereus in response to RLs. Fresh wet noodles (FWN) were used as a food model, and RLs showed a significant killing effect on B. cereus with a sustained inhibitory effect at the concentrations ranging from 128.0 to 1024.0 mg/kg. Additionally, RLs promoted the conversion of free water to bound water in FWN, which improved the storage of FWN and made the taste more resilient and chewy. These results suggest that RLs could be a potential alternative to antimicrobial agents and preservatives for applications in food processing.
Progress of Polymer-Based Dielectric Composites Prepared Using Fused Deposition Modeling 3D Printing
Authors: Hu Xueling , Sansi Seukep Alix Marcelle , Senthooran Velmurugan , Wu Lixin , Wang Lei , Zhang Chen , Wang Jianlei
Published: October 2023

Polymer-based dielectric composites are of great importance in advanced electronic industries and energy storage because of their high dielectric constant, good processability, low weight, and low dielectric loss. FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) is a greatly accessible additive manufacturing technology, which has a number of applications in the fabrication of RF components, but the unavoidable porosity in FDM 3D-printed materials, which affects the dielectric properties of the materials, and the difficulty of large-scale fabrication of composites by FDM limit its application scope. This study’s main focus is on how the matrix, filler, interface, and FDM 3D printing parameters influence the electrical properties of FDM-printed polymer-based dielectric composites. This review article starts with the fundamental theory of dielectrics. It is followed by a summary of the factors influencing dielectric properties in recent research developments, as well as a projection for the future development of FDM-prepared polymer-based dielectric composites. Finally, improving the comprehensive performance of dielectric composites is an important direction for future development.
A Federated Learning Model Based on Hardware Acceleration for the Early Detection of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Khalil Kasem , Khan Mamun Mohammad Mahbubur Rahman , Sherif Ahmed , Elsersy Mohamed Said , Imam Ahmad Abdel-Aliem , Mahmoud Mohamed , Alsabaan Maazen
Published: October 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive illness with a slow start that lasts many years; the disease’s consequences are devastating to the patient and the patient’s family. If detected early, the disease’s impact and prognosis can be altered significantly. Blood biosamples are often employed in simple medical testing since they are cost-effective and easy to collect and analyze. This research provides a diagnostic model for Alzheimer’s disease based on federated learning (FL) and hardware acceleration using blood biosamples. We used blood biosample datasets provided by the ADNI website to compare and evaluate the performance of our models. FL has been used to train a shared model without sharing local devices’ raw data with a central server to preserve privacy. We developed a hardware acceleration approach for building our FL model so that we could speed up the training and testing procedures. The VHDL hardware description language and an Altera 10 GX FPGA are utilized to construct the hardware-accelerator approach. The results of the simulations reveal that the proposed methods achieve accuracy and sensitivity for early detection of 89% and 87%, respectively, while simultaneously requiring less time to train than other algorithms considered to be state-of-the-art. The proposed algorithms have a power consumption ranging from 35 to 39 mW, which qualifies them for use in limited devices. Furthermore, the result shows that the proposed method has a lower inference latency (61 ms) than the existing methods with fewer resources.
Soft DAgger: Sample-Efficient Imitation Learning for Control of Soft Robots
Authors: Nazeer Muhammad Sunny , Laschi Cecilia , Falotico Egidio
Published: October 2023

This paper presents Soft DAgger, an efficient imitation learning-based approach for training control solutions for soft robots. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm, we implement it on a two-module soft robotic arm involved in the task of writing letters in 3D space. Soft DAgger uses a dynamic behavioral map of the soft robot, which maps the robot’s task space to its actuation space. The map acts as a teacher and is responsible for predicting the optimal actions for the soft robot based on its previous state action history, expert demonstrations, and current position. This algorithm achieves generalization ability without depending on costly exploration techniques or reinforcement learning-based synthetic agents. We propose two variants of the control algorithm and demonstrate that good generalization capabilities and improved task reproducibility can be achieved, along with a consistent decrease in the optimization time and samples. Overall, Soft DAgger provides a practical control solution to perform complex tasks in fewer samples with soft robots. To the best of our knowledge, our study is an initial exploration of imitation learning with online optimization for soft robot control.
Assessment of the Impact of Lean Tools on the Safety of the Shoemaking Industry
Authors: Sá José Carlos , Soares Leonardo , Dinis-Carvalho José , Silva Francisco J. G. , Santos Gilberto
Published: October 2023

Both the Lean philosophy and occupational safety and health have been widely studied, although this has usually been carried out independently. However, the correlation between Lean and occupational safety and health in the industrial context is still underexplored. Indeed, Lean tools can be applied to ensure the best safety environment for workers in each kind of manufacturing process, and this deserves to be studied. The study described here aims to understand the influence of each of a set of four Lean tools used in an industrial context with a strong manual labor component, seeking to determine the influence of each of these Lean tools on the increase in safety obtained through their application. For this purpose, four Lean tools that are quite commonly applied are selected, taking into account previously presented work that pointed to the positive influence of the application of each of these tools on worker safety: total productive maintenance system, Gemba walk, visual management and Yokoten. This study aims to apply these Lean tools and to analyze their impact on productivity, and then, on the safety of a company selected as a target in order to validate the concept. For this purpose, a new tool is created. In the first instance, the tool analyzes the current state of the productive process and the safety level through the study of the risk levels detected in the plant. In terms of productivity results, a reduction between 7% and 12% in cycle time is achieved in four areas of the plant. The feedback from employees showed increased satisfaction with the processes’ simplification. To conclude, a 50% reduction in the number of work accidents per month is observed as a result of the implementation of Lean tools. The influence of the selected Lean tools on increasing both productivity and safety is clear, and our results prove the selection of tools to be largely adequate.
A Shared Frailty Model for Left-Truncated and Right-Censored Under-Five Child Mortality Data in South Africa
Authors: Mulaudzi Tshilidzi Benedicta , Kifle Yehenew Getachew , Braekers Roel
Published: October 2023

Many African nations continue to grapple with persistently high under-five child mortality rates, particularly those situated in the Sub-Saharan region, including South Africa. A multitude of socio-economic factors are identified as key contributors to the elevated under-five child mortality in numerous African nations. This research endeavors to investigate various factors believed to be associated with child mortality by employing advanced statistical models. This study utilizes child-level survival data from South Africa, characterized by left truncation and right censoring, to fit a Cox proportional hazards model under the assumption of working independence. Additionally, a shared frailty model is applied, clustering children based on their mothers. Comparative analysis is performed between the results obtained from the shared frailty model and the Cox proportional hazards model under the assumption of working independence. Within the scope of this analysis, several factors stand out as significant contributors to under-five child mortality in the study area, including gender, birth province, birth year, birth order, and twin status. Notably, the shared frailty model demonstrates superior performance in modeling the dataset, as evidenced by a lower likelihood cross-validation score compared to the Cox proportional hazards model assuming independence. This improvement can be attributed to the shared frailty model’s ability to account for heterogeneity among mothers and the inherent association between siblings born to the same mother, ultimately enhancing the quality of the study’s conclusions.
Inclusive and Safe Mobility Needs of Senior Citizens: Implications for Age-Friendly Cities and Communities
Authors: Bokolo Anthony Jnr.
Published: October 2023

Municipalities are concerned with addressing social issues such as mobility inclusion and safety by increasing access to transport facilities and services for all groups in society to create equitable and equal access for all citizens. Moreover, the public transportation systems provided in cities have to be inclusive and safe, driven by emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based services that provide personalized recommendation to improve mobility inclusion and safety for all citizens in society, especially vulnerable road users such as senior citizens or older people. But at the moment, there are few studies that have investigated how municipalities can provide inclusive and safe public transportation in general and for senior citizens, particularly those aged 65 and above. Therefore, this study aimed to examine how to provide inclusive and safe mobility for senior citizens to improve out-of-home mobility services for senior citizens towards age-friendly cities and communities. Accordingly, a systematic literature review grounded on secondary data was adopted to investigate inclusive and safe mobility needs for senior citizens. The data were collected from previous research and existing documents, and a descriptive data analysis was carried out to provide insights on urban transportation policies related to senior citizens. Furthermore, case studies were adopted to present polices and strategies employed in Norway, Canada, the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Sweden, and Northern Ireland to identify measures employed to address the public transportation needs of an aging society, focusing on the provision of inclusive and safe mobility to senior citizens. Further findings from this study included the possible use of emerging technologies such as AI-based machine learning for inclusive and safe mobility.
Prevention and Control Are Not a Regional Matter: A Spatial Correlation and Molecular Linkage Analysis Based on Newly Reported HIV/AIDS Patients in 2021 in Jiangsu, China
Authors: Yuan Defu , Liu Shanshan , Ouyang Fei , Ai Wei , Shi Lingen , Liu Xiaoyan , Qiu Tao , Zhou Ying , Wang Bei
Published: October 2023

HIV-related spatial analysis studies in China are relatively few, and Jiangsu Province has not reported the relevant data in recent years. To describe the spatial distribution and molecular linkage characteristics of HIV-infected patients, this article combined descriptive epidemiology, spatial analysis, and molecular epidemiology methods to analyze patient reporting, patient mobility information, and HIV sequence information simultaneously. The results showed that HIV reporting profiles differed among Jiangsu cities, with the reporting rate in southern Jiangsu being above average. There was a spatial autocorrelation (Global Moran I = 0.5426, p < 0.05), with Chang Zhou showing a High–High aggregation pattern. Chang Zhou and Wu Xi were identified as hotspots for HIV reporting and access to molecular transmission networks. Some infected individuals still showed cross-city or even cross-province mobility after diagnosis, and three were linked with individuals in the destination cities within the largest molecular transmission cluster, involving 196 patients. The cross-city or cross-province mobility of patients may result in a potential HIV transmission risk, suggesting that combining timely social network surveys, building an extensive transmission network across cities and provinces, and taking critical regions and key populations as entry points could contribute to improved prevention and control efficiency and promote achievement of the 95-95-95 target and cascade.
SOME ASPECTS OF SELF-REGULATION IN THE PROCESS OF FORMING THE RESEARCH COMPETENCE OF FUTURE DOCTORS
Authors: MAKARENKO O. , MAKARENKO V. , SILKOVA O. , GRYNOVA M. , MAKARENKO K.
Published: October 2023

Theoretical - system-functional analysis, synthesis, comparison, generalization; empirical - psychological and pedagogical diagnostic methods. Statistical - quantitative and qualitative analysis of data using methods of mathematical statistics (with the application of Pearson's hypothesis-criterion) followed by their qualitative interpretation and substantive generalization.

As the study showed, the contingent of medical higher education institutions is mostly extroverted, while natural sciences, by their nature, contribute more to the development of abilities inherent in introverts. This requires a review of the process of training future doctors in natural sciences. The study showed the connection of certain aspects of self-regulation in the process of activity with introversion and extroversion, which should also be taken into account when organizing work in science classes. In particular, this is necessary when establishing communication. Extroverts learn the material better when organizing group work, where they can show their communication skills.

In any activity, both one and the other type of personality work. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages. The advantages of each type must be used 100%, and the disadvantages of these two approaches must also be turned into advantages.

The disciplines of the natural and scientific cycle, by their nature, contribute more to the development of abilities inherent in introverts. Solving problems and performing laboratory experiments requires concentration and perseverance, the ability to encode and recode information, detailed analysis, which is characteristic of introverts. Extroverts are more inclined to work in a team and are less inclined to follow rules that contribute to the accuracy of measurements and calculations, focusing not on the measurement process itself, but on obtaining a quick result.
Aplicación del programa habilidades socioemocionales para mejorar las habilidades comunicativas en estudiantes universitarios
Authors: Chávez Fernández Rosalí Miguel
Published: October 2023

Las habilidades socioemocionales son capacidades que tiene todo estudiante para su autoconocimiento y dominar las propias emociones que ayudan a desarrollar las habilidades comunicativas. El estudio tuvo como objetivo determinar la efectividad del programa habilidades socioemocionales en el desarrollo de las habilidades comunicativas en estudiantes universitarios. Se desarrolló bajo un enfoque cuantitativo de tipo aplicada con un diseño experimental cuasiexperimental. La muestra estuvo conformada por 56 alumnos. Se empleó como técnica la observación y como instrumento la guía de observación estructurada. Como resultado se obtuvo una similitud deficiente en el pre test y pos test del grupo control; y en el pre test del grupo experimental, mientras en el pos test el 100% del grupo experimental estaba en nivel bueno de habilidades comunicativas. Concluyendo que, la aplicación del programa habilidades socioemocionales mejora las habilidades comunicativas en estudiantes universitarios con una U de Mann-Whitney: 0,000 y z= - 6,433 y ?= 0.000.
Dynamics of left and right atrial strain after radiofrequency ablation in patients with paroxysmal and persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Moskovskikh T. V. , Smorgon A. V. , Usenkov S. Yu. , Archakov E. A. , Sitkova E. S. , Batalov R. E. , Popov S. V.
Published: October 2023

Aim. To assess the dynamics of left (LA) and right atrium (RA) strain after antral pulmonary vein isolation in patients with paroxysmal and persistent atrial fibrillation.

Methods. The study included 57 subjects (31 men and 26 women) aged of 55.4±9.8 years. Patients were divided into 2 groups: group 1 with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (n=40; 70%) and group 2 with persistent atrial fibrillation (n=17; 30%). All patients were treated (were undergone) with antral isolation of the pulmonary veins. Speckle-tracking echocardiography at sinus rhythm was performed before interventional treatment, after 3 days, 3 months and one year. The reservoir, conduit and contractile LA function and peak longitudinal RA strain were analyzed.

Results. In both groups, reservoir (p<0.001), conductive (p<0.001) and contractile LA functions (p<0.001 and p=0.001) decreased significantly in the early postoperative period. LA mechanics recovered after 3 months in all patients and were comparable to the level before and one year after radiofrequency ablation. RA strain was significantly increased in the early postoperative period. RA strain was significantly higher at one year follow-up period compared with baseline.

Conclusion. Catheter ablation has a damaging effect on the LA - inhibition of reservoir, conductive and contractile functions in the early postoperative period, while the RA strain is intensified. LA strain is recovered in 3 months after radiofrequency ablation and remains comparable with the baseline level at one year follow-up. Reservoir and conduction function of LA and longitudinal deformation of RA are better in the patients with a stable sinus rhythm for a year after ablation compared with patiens who had a tachyarrhythmia recurrence.
A LOGICAL ALTERNATIVE FOR THE BURR PROBABILITY DISTRIBUTIONS
Authors: Ranjbaran Abdolrasoul , Ranjbaran Mohammad , Ranjbaran Fatema , Falamaki Masoud , Hashemi Shamsedin , Rousta Ali Mohammad
Published: October 2023

The analysis of real-world data in classical statistics is commenced by deriving a density function which requires a lengthy function selection and parameter estimation process. The process is supported by difficult integration to obtain the cumulative frequency function. In view of the difficulties in the existing methods, a super function called the Persian Probability Curve is proposed in this paper. This function is based on logical reasoning and mathematical concepts to overcome the shortcomings of the classical method. It is shown that the Persian probability is equivalent to that of the Burr in the governing differential equation. The validity of the work has been verified by comparing the obtained results with those of others.
A digital infrastructure perspective for accelerated rural entrepreneurship
Authors: Asoba Samson Nambei , Mefi Nteboheng Patricia
Published: October 2023

Within the technological context associated with the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) as well as the technological implications of the Covid-19 pandemic, digitalization has increased. Given the that rural entrepreneurs have traditionally lagged behind in many facets of competitiveness, the purpose of this study was to explore the question: How can digital infrastructure accelerate small business entrepreneurship at a rural community in the Eastern Cape Province? The study was based on a qualitative design related to participant observations and document analysis. Participating in a meeting between entrepreneurs, academics and Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA) officials and analyzing the discussion areas and behaviors of participants allowed the objectives of the study to be achieved. It was found that virtual infrastructure development excited the respondents and inspired business and developmental aspirations of participants. Participants provided that that digital infrastructure development in rural Eastern Cape would foster economic development, close the digital divide, widens small enterprise development models, ensure inclusive economic participation and create new business opportunities. It was also provided that digital infrastructure creates entrepreneurial linkages that would promote business ecosystems in rural areas and foster general economic advancement in rural areas. This study resulted in the need to recommend government to increase digital support and investment in rural areas.

Keywords: Virtualization, digitalization, entrepreneurship, small business, innovation, technology
A Relationship Between Social Media Marketing and Brand Awareness Increase
Authors: Olearova Maria , Bačík Radovan
Published: October 2023

The main objective of the present paper is to examine the connection between social media marketing and customer perception of brands operating on social media platforms. In this paper, we examine four factors - perceived personalisation, perceived usefullness of content, fun content, and customer engagement and their relationship with increasing brand awareness. Utilizing the Kendall-tau coefficient on a sample of Slovak social media users, we uncovered compelling evidence of a significant correlation between various factors and the augmentation of brand awareness. The paper emphasizes the crucial significance of social media marketing as an indispensable relationship marketing tool for cultivating and sustaining brand success amidst today's digital milieu. Concluding the article, we explore the research findings and their implications, offering valuable insights for brand marketing managers endeavoring to fortify brand awareness and effectively combat competition.

Keywords: Brand awareness, Social media, Branding, Brand content, Relationship marketing.
The Influence of Femininity: Exploring the Relationship between Women CEOs and Corporate Social Responsibility through Stakeholder Orientation
Authors: Rudyanto Astrid , Rahayuningsih Deasy Ariyanti , Susanto Yulius Kurnia
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study is to analyze the role of femininity (stakeholder orientation) on the effect of female CEOs on corporate social responsibility. In this research, manufacturing companies were used as samples listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange with a total 3 years ranging from the period of 2019 – 2021. This research used panel data with fixed effect regression. The result of this research shows that female CEOs with stakeholder orientation has positive effect on corporate social responsibility while female CEOs with shareholder orientation has no effect on corporate social responsibility. The research also reveals that female CEOs that focus on stakeholders highlight CSR initiatives that benefit the economy and environment. This study also demonstrates that femininity has no bearing on profitability and that feminine female CEOs do not automatically equate to being incompetent. The implication of this study is female CEOs should have experience in stakeholder-related activities to increase corporate social responsibility. Experience in stakeholder-related activities can alter female CEOs perspective on corporate social responsibility in male-dominated environment. This study also shows that being a feminine female CEOs is nothing to be ashamed of as feminine female CEOs can boost CSR in a sophisticated approach that doesn't hurt immediate financial results.

Keywords: Female CEO, Corporate Social Responsibility, Femininity, Stakeholder Orientation
Enhancing Students' Happiness, Resilience, and Grit through Positive Psychology Courses
Authors: Yang Fan-Yu
Published: October 2023

The study has revealed that teaching enables students to acquire the skills for achieving happiness. Furthermore, simple classroom activities can also enhance students' sense of well-being and bolster their resilience. Consequently, the attainability of both happiness and resilience becomes evident.In the swiftly evolving landscape of today's society, providing students with the capacity to bounce back from setbacks and uphold their mental well-being emerges as a crucial skill that must be cultivated within the educational domain. These essential abilities are not only imperative within the school setting but also carry enduring significance throughout their lives.

Keywords: Resilience, Grit, Well-Being
Impact of Social Responsibility as a Driver of Business Performance in Indonesian Smes
Authors: Maulanda Fadrian Dwiki , Yudoko Gatot , Rudito Bambang
Published: October 2023

The Covid-19 pandemic continues to shape Indonesia's trajectory, with projections indicating its influence for the next 4-5 years, prompting a paradigm shift across all spheres, including the economy. Companies find themselves at a crossroads, tasked with aligning profitability with the evolving needs of communities, while simultaneously meeting ethical obligations to society and the environment. Consequently, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has taken on a dynamic role, expanding beyond large corporations to encompass Small-and-Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs). Nevertheless, the intricate interplay between CSR, SME resilience, and the capacity to endure economic downturns remains largely unexplored.This study endeavors to bridge this research gap by delving into the impact of CSR on the financial performance of SMEs in the face of economic challenges. As the Covid-19 pandemic persists, Indonesian SMEs must navigate an altered economic landscape. Although the concept of CSR has gained prominence, its precise influence on SMEs' ability to weather economic adversities and attain sustained financial success remains enigmatic. Consequently, this research aims to uncover the factors that shape the adoption of CSR practices among SMEs, while also investigating the extent to which CSR implementation correlates with financial performance. By elucidating this relationship, the study aspires to provide valuable insights into fortifying the sustainability and resilience of SMEs within the dynamic framework of evolving economic norms.

Keywords: Decarbonization, Malaysia, Net-zero emissions, Corporate practices
Effects of Instıtutıonal Pressures, Organisational Resources and Capabilities on Environmental Management Accounting For Sustainbility Competitive Advantage
Authors: M.A Salim Khaled , Mohd Amir Amizawati , Maelah Ruhanita , Jalaludin Dayana
Published: October 2023

The Kenyan government announced the Kenyan vision 2030 development initiative in 2008. It is intended to assist the country to become a newly industrialising, middle-income nation that offers its residents a good quality of life in a safe and clean environment (Kibe, 2021). Consequently, the majority of companies, especially SMEs, which account for 98% of all businesses in Kenya, recognised the significance of operating following the government's vision in order to increase their sales share on the global market and to achieve better community relations and an enhanced image (Osano, 2019). In a related vein, substantial efforts have been made to boost the global adoption of green technology practices (Darnall et al., 2010). Companies pursuing industrialization, sustainable development, and sustainable competitive advantage (SCA) must now respond to legislative pressure and reduce the negative environmental effect of manufacturing industries in order to achieve these objectives (Gunarathne et al. 2021; Wang et al. 2018). On the other side, few scholars indicated that, organizations even with facing external pressures must have adequate resources and capabilities that affecting firms' production, operation decisions and environmental protection behaviour (Latan et al. 2018; Wijethilake 2017).

Keywords: Instıtutıonal Pressures, Organisational Resources, Capabilities, Environmental Management Accounting, Sustainbility Competitive Advantage
Trickle Down Effect Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR) Of Palm Oil Industry in Development in West Kalimantan Province
Authors: Fitriasari Ersa Tri , Patriani Ira
Published: October 2023

The research aims to have a trickle-down effect on the community to realize equitable regional development through the palm oil industrial plantation sector in the utilization and contribution by synergizing and harmonizing development priority programs and the CSR (Corporate social responsibility) program in West Kalimantan. Qualitative research methods by extracting information from relevant stakeholders. Problems occur because there is no forum for communication and mediation related to the implementation of CSR and there is no accurate information regarding which fields/aspects need assistance so companies tend to carry out CSR programs without coordinating with local governments which is the obligation of the company, namely "copy-paste design" or simply "spending" the budget. The results obtained are a forum for communication and mediation in synergizing and integrating regional development programs and CSR programs with facilitation by forums and CSR facilitation teams as well as dissemination of information on regional development of CSR programs through various media and the realization of community desires through the CSR Musrenbang and the resulting implementation of monitoring and evaluation of CSR programs by involving relevant stakeholders.

Keywords: Development, Community Empowerment, Musrembang
The Impact of Application of Corona SDK Technology on Iban Proverbs Learning in Secondary School
Authors: Banseng Saripah , Gerry Doratya , Frederick Matt Debbie Grace , Megat Khalid Puteri Zarina , Yusuf Robe'ah
Published: October 2023

Iban language is one of the ethnic subjects taught in Sarawak schools. This subject is managed from the primary level up to the higher education level. This subject's curriculum prioritises human capital development as well as good values for students. Proverbs in Iban Language is one of the curriculum areas in Iban Language. Proverbs are defined as figurative or allusive statements of sentences, clauses, or sentences that encompass the power of wisdom, moral elements, and indigenous practices that are arranged metaphorically, have a fixed form, and possess a pure value inherited from generation to generation (KSSM Bahasa Iban, 2015). The effectiveness of teaching and learning is influenced by the teacher's competence, which includes approaches (Daly, Liou & Der-Martirosian, 2021), leadership (Shen et al., 2020) and content pedagogical knowledge (Gess-Newsome et al., 2019). Likewise, especially when teaching proverbs in the Iban language. Through the approach used in imparting knowledge to their students, educators also play an important role in producing an educated nation (Rahmatullah et al., 2022). As a result, educators must constantly improve themselves while also remaining aware of changing educational technology.

Keywords: Corona SDK Technology, Teaching and Learning, Iban Language Proverbs
Social Media Advertising Influences Customers' Purchase Intention in Generation Z
Authors: Lopes Paula Rosa , Rodrigues Rosa , Sandes Fábio , Estrela Rui , Rosário Albérico Travassos , Rosário Filipe Sales
Published: October 2023

Spending on social media advertising is expected to reach $207.10 billion in 2023, according to Statista forecasts. This growth in advertising investment in social networks means that brands are changing their global advertising plans in order to increasingly promote their products and services through online advertising, directing their communication to the Z generation that was born to consume content available on social media. This research aimed to investigate how the importance of advertising moderates the relationship between advertising on social networks and consumers' purchase intention. Advertising on social networks is a strategy that can be used to increase the credibility of a brand's promotional message, making advertising more persuasive and credible. The study included 919 respondents, aged between 18 and 26 years, most of whom were female (51.3%). To measure the purchase intention, a composite variable was created, consisting of the four items developed by Duffett (2015). Data analysis revealed that advertising on social networks and the importance given to advertising significantly influence consumers' purchase intention. This data is important for brand managers, advertisers, and marketers because it is clear that purchase intent tends to increase when consumers consider advertising on social networks to be important.

Keywords: Social media advertising, purchase intention, advertising importance, Generation Z.