bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
O SISTEMA DE PLANTIO DIRETO DE HORTALIÇAS E FRUTÍFERAS COMO FERRAMENTA DE EXTENSÃO RURAL NA REGIÃO DO ARENITO CAIUÁ (PARANÁ)
Authors: Molina Couto Diego , Francisco  Assis Shikida Pery
Published: July 2024

Este estudo tem por objetivo propor o Sistema de Plantio Direto de Hortaliças e Frutíferas (SPDHF), como ferramenta de extensão rural, na Região Noroeste do Paraná, onde ocorre a formação de solos Arenito Caiuá, caracterizada por solos arenosos. Em função dessas características, os produtores de frutas e hortaliças apresentam dificuldades para manter produção regular quando utilizam o sistema de plantio convencional. Nesse contexto, o SPDHF difundido pelo Instituto de Desenvolvimento Rural do Paraná (IDR-Paraná), tem sido capaz de viabilizar a produção de diversas culturas. Foi realizada uma pesquisa com uma amostra de 10 agricultores familiares adotantes da tecnologia, para avaliar os impactos provocados pelo emprego do SPDHF em relação ao plantio convencional, assim como os aperfeiçoamentos necessários para a consolidação da tecnologia. Verificou-se que para a maioria dos fatores avaliados houve avanços com a adoção da técnica, proporcionando ganhos econômicos e sociais aos envolvidos. Ao mesmo tempo, as principais limitações indicadas pela maioria dos produtores dizem respeito a não disponibilidade de máquinas e implementos adequados ao trabalho no SPDHF. O conhecimento dessa realidade permite o planejamento de ações para ampliar o emprego da técnica e buscar soluções para as limitações diagnosticadas.
Optimization of Spatial Windshield Wiper Linkages by Using the Differential Evolution Method
Authors: Chen Tsai-Jung , Chung Tien-Shun
Published: July 2024

This study developed a three-dimensional kinematic and dynamic model of a center-driven linkage system (CDLS). Force analysis was conducted to determine the required driving torque to ensure that the input link of the CDLS rotates at a constant speed with a certain angular velocity, even in the presence of frictional resistance torque. The primary objective was to optimize the maximum angular acceleration of the output links to reduce wiper noise. This optimization can enhance the stability of the linkage system while maintaining its operational functionality. In the adopted methodology, the frames of the fixed links are assumed to remain unchanged, and the input link is considered to operate at a constant angular speed and have a constant length. To meet standard vehicle windshield wiper requirements, 10 constraints were imposed on the optimization problem, which was solved using the differential evolution method. The lengths of both output links were reduced by over 10% after optimization.
Delayed Intra-operative Spinal Cord Monitoring Events in Paediatric and Young Adult Spinal Deformity Patients
Authors: McMillan Tristan , Vats Atul , Garrido Enrique , Michaelson Ciara , TSIRIKOS ATHANASIOS I.
Published: July 2024

Introduction
Delayed intra-operative neuro-monitoring (IOM) events can be defined as loss of responses, after baseline traces were present upon completion of instrumentation and deformity correction. This study reports this subgroup of events, assesses their incidence and evaluates potential causative factors.
Methods
We reviewed 1881 consecutive patients who underwent spinal deformity correction between 2011 and 2021. Surgeries were performed using a standardised anaesthetic regimen and multimodal IOM protocol.
Results
44 patients (2.4%) had an IOM event. 9 patients (6F:3M) had a true positive delayed event after posterior segmental pedicle screw instrumentation. Mean age was 12.5 (2-17) years with mean thoracic Cobb angle of 78° (51-94°). Mean estimated blood loss was 28%. Titanium beam shaped rods were utilised in 3 patients and 5.5mm titanium rods in 5 patients. Motor evoked potentials were lost on average 18 (10-30) minutes after completion of instrumentation. 7 patients had bilateral loss and 2 patients had unilateral loss of MEP traces. Sensory evoked potential amplitude was preserved in all cases. There was a transient latency shift in one patient. MEPs returned within 20 minutes of rod release. The rod was re-contoured to incorporate more scoliosis in 1 patient. 2 patients had beam rods exchanged to 5.5mm titanium rods. 6 patients had rod removal with retention of pedicle screws and staged completion of instrumentation at mean 5 (1-7) days later. No patients had a postoperative neurological deficit.
Conclusion
Delayed IOM loss represented 15% of all events. Increased cord tension and hypo-perfusion were considered likely mechanisms. Rod release restored MEPs in all cases. The timing of events emphasises the importance of continued monitoring for minimum 30 minutes after completion of spinal instrumentation or until wound closure.
Visualization of Peruvian Startups: An Application for Incubators and Investors
Authors: Aceituno Moya nadine
Published: July 2024

The startup ecosystem in Peru has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, driven by technol- ogy and innovation across various industries. This article presents a web application developed in PHP, designed to centralize and facilitate access to information about startups, incubators, and investors in Peru. The methodology employed encompasses several stages, from establishing prerequisites to data preprocessing, model selection and training, rigorous evaluation, and the technical development of the platform. The application offers key functionalities such as exploring a comprehensive database of star- tups, detailed access to information about incubators and accelerators, identification of investors, and advanced analysis tools for market proposal prediction. Additionally, it integrates educational resources and allows users to suggest new startups through detailed surveys. The results demonstrate that the ap- plication improves access to relevant data, fosters collaboration among ecosystem actors, and supports informed decision-making. The platform also stands out for its security and privacy measures, as well as its ability to drive innovation and competitiveness in the market. In conclusion, the application has a sig- nificant impact on the Peruvian entrepreneurial ecosystem, and its continuous improvement is essential for the sustainable growth of startups in Peru and globally
AI Tools as Supplementary Support in Language Acquisition
Authors: Abernathy Peter C.
Published: July 2024

AI tools provide individualized learning experiences tailored to specific language learners' requirements. Artificial intelligence-driven programs can customize lessons, exercises, and feedback by evaluating a learner's progress and determining strengths and shortcomings. This individualized method aids students in concentrating on their areas of weakness, thus improving their total language competency. This narrative literature review aims to gather relevant literature discussing AI tools as supplementary support in aiding a learner's language acquisition. Relevant studies stated that there are a lot of chances to improve learning outcomes when AI tools are used in language acquisition. Teachers who want to give their students more resources and help should consider including these tools in their lessons. To preserve the interpersonal and cultural components of language learning, it is imperative to strike a balance between the application of AI and conventional teaching techniques. AI tools are always accessible, providing assistance to learners whenever needed. This is especially helpful for individuals with unpredictable schedules or restricted access to conventional language learning materials.
The Nature, Logic and Path of New Quality Productive Forces to Promote the High Quality Development of Vocational Education
Authors: Wang Menglin
Published: July 2024

In the context of the era of New Quality Productive Forces, technological innovation has become the core force to promote the development of social productivity, which is closely linked with vocational education, and together create a strong demand for high-quality technical and skilled personnel. In order to meet this demand, vocational education must synchronize with the development of the New Quality Productive Forces and form a mechanism of mutual promotion. The key to promoting the high-quality development of vocational education lies in taking technological innovation as the guide, and comprehensively improving the quality of education through measures such as innovating the education model, deepening the integration of industry and education, and enhancing the adaptability of specialties. To this end, vocational education should actively build bridges for the integration of industry and education, enhance the flexibility and adaptability of the education system, innovate the mechanism of talent cultivation, and establish a comprehensive quality assurance system. Together, these efforts will promote vocational education to enter a new stage of high-quality development and provide a solid talent guarantee for the sustainable development of the social economy.
Adsorption of Cobalt Ions by Activated Carbon Prepared from Agricultural Waste Residues and Treated with Magnetic Nanomaterials: A Review
Authors: Aliwi Heba Mohammed , Halboos Mohanad Hazim
Published: July 2024

General Background: The study of heavy metal adsorption is crucial for environmental protection and industrial wastewater management. Specific Background: The adsorption of cobalt ions (Co2+) by activated carbon derived from agricultural waste, enhanced with magnetic nanomaterials, has garnered significant interest due to its potential for cost-effective and efficient wastewater treatment. Knowledge Gap: Despite numerous studies, there remains a lack of comprehensive research on the specific combination of agricultural waste-derived activated carbon and magnetic nanomaterials for Co2+ adsorption. Aims: This study aims to meticulously review the existing literature on the preparation of activated carbon from agricultural residues, the enhancement of its properties with magnetic nanomaterials, and its effectiveness in Co2+ ion adsorption. Results: The review demonstrates that activated carbon with a large specific surface area and diverse functional groups significantly improves Co2+ adsorption. The incorporation of magnetic nanomaterials further enhances this efficiency due to increased surface area and magnetic properties. Novelty: This research uniquely combines agricultural waste valorization with advanced nanotechnology, presenting a sustainable and innovative approach to heavy metal adsorption. Implications: The findings underscore the dual environmental benefits of recycling agricultural waste and mitigating industrial pollution, offering a cost-effective and efficient solution for cobalt ion recovery from wastewater. This study serves as a valuable resource for researchers and engineers focusing on sustainable environmental remediation technologies.
Highlights:
 

Enhanced Adsorption: Magnetic nanomaterials boost activated carbon's efficiency.
Sustainable Solution: Agricultural waste-derived activated carbon is eco-friendly and cost-effective.
Comprehensive Insight: Review identifies research gaps and future directions.

 
Keywords: cobalt ion adsorption, activated carbon, agricultural waste, magnetic nanomaterials, wastewater treatment
Ensino da dinâmica sob uma perspectiva freireana em duas turmas de 1º ano do ensino médio do IFC - campus Concórdia
Authors: Hack Gizela Vanessa , Mega Daniel Farias
Published: July 2024

A interseção entre a teoria pedagógica de Paulo Freire e o ensino de Física tem sido objeto crescente de interesse na educação contemporânea. Este trabalho se propõe a explorar o ensino da Dinâmica nas aulas de Física sob uma perspectiva freireana. Paulo Freire apresenta em sua teoria uma abordagem crítica e reflexiva que busca transcender a mera transmissão de conhecimento, incentivando a participação ativa dos alunos no processo de aprendizagem e promovendo uma visão mais contextualizada e significativa do conteúdo. Destaca-se que este trabalho foi conduzido no contexto do Programa Residência Pedagógica, uma iniciativa que visa aprimorar a formação inicial de professores por meio da integração entre teoria e prática. No âmbito do Instituto Federal Catarinense - Campus Concórdia, o estudo foi realizado com as turmas 1E do curso Técnico em Alimentos e 1F do curso Técnico em Informática para Internet, ambos integrados ao Ensino Médio. Sendo assim, este trabalho busca contribuir para o enriquecimento do debate sobre práticas pedagógicas inovadoras no ensino de Física, ao mesmo tempo em que evidencia a importância de uma abordagem crítica e contextualizada para promover uma educação mais participativa.
Balancing land use for conservation, agriculture, and renewable energy
Authors: Brock Cameryn , Roehrdanz Patrick , Beringer Tim , Chaplin-Kramer Rebecca , Enquist Brian , Frazier Amy , Johnson Justin , Kennedy Christina , Kiesecker Joseph , Larsen Ashley , Loyola Rafael , Marquet Pablo , Neugarten Rachel , Oakleaf James , Roopsind Anand , Schuster Richard , Williams David , Wu Grace , Zvoleff Alex , Hannah Lee
Published: July 2024

Demand for land is increasing due to mounting energy and development needs. Growing demand for food coupled with climate policy commitments calling for reduced greenhouse gas emissions will result in more land being used for agricultural and renewable energy development. At the same time, conserving land for biodiversity and nature’s contributions to people (NCP) is imperative for achieving international climate, sustainable development, and biodiversity goals. Meeting these interconnected objectives requires the efficient and equitable allocation of land to different sectors. We present a flexible, multiple-objective framework for using integer linear programming to strategically allocate land under climate change to mitigate threats to biodiversity and NCP while supporting development. The application of the framework at a planetary scale shows that if agriculture and renewable energy development are planned without consideration of biodiversity and NCP, future demands for land (6.2 million km2 globally) could impact nearly 1 million km2 of high-priority areas for nature, habitats of 440 threatened vertebrate species, and 21 Gt of vulnerable carbon stocks. Multi-sector planning can mitigate potential land conflict, reducing the number of species exposed by 15% and the amount of carbon loss by 19%. If development proceeds without coordinated planning, there is insufficient land available to achieve conservation and development targets. Our findings underscore the need to ensure critical areas for biodiversity, carbon storage, and NCP are conserved; reduce land demand for food and energy; meet remaining demand more efficiently through spatial targeting; and coordinate land use across sectors more intentionally, such as through multi-functional landscapes.
Sustainable Nutrition Education Intervention for Adult Residents: A Mixed Methods Study in a Rural Area of Chengdu, China
Authors: He Zhifan , Li Xiaohui , Li Lu , Feng Ming , Li Jing
Published: July 2024

Background: Rural communities face challenges in accessing effective nutrition education, which is crucial for improving nutritional and health knowledge (NHK). This study aims to evaluate the impact of comprehensive educational interventions on NHK among rural residents and identify effective communication strategies for dissemination.
Methods: Five rural villages in Chengdu, Sichuan, China, were selected as intervention sites. The interventions included loudspeaker audio broadcasts, WeChat group video dissemination, promotional flyers targeting NCDs, online prize-winning quizzes, posters, “Kids as Teachers: Learning Together” activity. Pre- and post-intervention NHK questionnaires were used to assess residents' knowledge, and the acceptability of the interventions was also evaluated.
Results: The comprehensive educational interventions significantly increased residents' NHK scores, as evident from the observed improvement from 59.8 to 68.7 after the interventions. These improvements were observed across the entire range of scores, indicating a positive impact particularly on individuals with lower initial scores. Among the different communication methods employed, loudspeaker audio broadcasts and WeChat group video dissemination received the highest ratings from community workers for accessibility, with scores of 8 and 7.2, respectively.
Conclusion: The findings indicate that comprehensive educational interventions effectively enhance NHK in rural areas. Loudspeaker audio broadcasts and WeChat group video dissemination were particularly successful in reaching a wide audience and were well-received by community workers. These results suggest the importance of implementing similar educational interventions in other rural areas to promote NHK dissemination. Moreover, ensuring government support is crucial for successful NHK education implementation and sustainability.
Macroeconomic Influencing Factors on Co2 Emissions in Rwanda: Short-Run Dynamics and Long-Run Equilibrium
Authors: Djamal Dekkiche , Brahim Laila Oulad
Published: July 2024

This research aims to study the determinants of the emission of carbon dioxide in Rwanda during the period 1990–2022, considering foreign direct investment, gross domestic product, the industrial sector, and the consumption of renewable energies as explanatory variables. The ARDL model was used to test the short- and long-term relationship between variables, The results of the study concluded that all independent variables have a negative impact on the emission of carbon dioxide in the long term, while in the short term, the results found a positive impact of both foreign investment, domestic output and composite industries on the emission of carbon dioxide in Rwanda, while the industrial sector and the consumption of renewable energies have a negative impact. The results also concluded that GDP is the largest contributor to the emission of carbon dioxide in Rwanda compared to the impact of other variables. This indicates that the rapid growth rates recorded by Rwanda have negatively affected the emission of CO2, as the increase in GDP in Rwanda requires the use of energy, and some energies eventually generate carbon dioxide emissions. The study recommended the need to promote the use of renewable energy and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, in addition to improving energy efficiency in all economic sectors such as the use of bicycles and electric vehicles. The study encourages foreign and domestic investments in clean and environmentally friendly technologies and expands investment in research and development to discover alternative energy sources that maintain high productivity and low levels of CO2 emissions. It also proposes carbon taxes to incentivize companies to reduce their footprint.
Quantitative Analysis Method of spatial Distribution of Faults and Correlation Analysis of Water Inrush based on improved fractal Dimension and 3-D geological Model: A Case Study in Dafosi Coal Mine
Authors: Yan Junsheng , Liu Zaibin , Xie Qian , Liu Chenguang , Wu Xuefei , Ji Kang , Wang Xiaohui , Wang Huahui
Published: July 2024

Fault is one of the most threatening factors among the hidden disaster-causing factors in coal mines. The current quantitative analysis method of fault is still unsatisfactory, which is mainly reflected in the fact that the quantitative results cannot reflect the morphological characteristics of fault and lack of three-dimensional(3-D) quantitative methods. In this paper, we propose a method for quantitative analysis of spatial distribution faults based on improved fractal dimension and 3-D geological model. The method utilizes the Delaunay algorithm to improve the fractal dimension calculation parameters. On the other hand, the 3-D geological model is used to calculate the curvature of the fault plane, and the mean curvature of the fault plane is used to correct the number of parameters in the calculation of 3-D fractal dimension. The calculated indices can reflect the spatial distribution characteristics of the faults in the study area as well as their own structural characteristics. Finally, we calculated the correlation coefficients between the calculated results and the distribution of water inrush points by linear regression analysis. The regression coefficient \({\text{R}}^{2}\) obtained are above 0.7, which proves that the spatial distribution faults proposed in this paper has a strong correlation with the water inrush conditions in mines, and further verifies the validity of the method proposed in this paper.
An interactive feature-fusion neural network for 3D fault seismic recognition
Authors: Shan Huilin , Wang Xingtao , Luo Jianwei , Chen Xin , Huang Yaobo , Zhang Yinsheng
Published: July 2024

Currently, most deep-learning-based fault-recogni-tion methods rely on traditional networks, such as U-Net and convolutional neural networks (CNNs). Traditional networks excel in feature extraction because they use a large number of traditional convolution operations. However, they suffer from issues such as feature redundancy, slow model inference speed, and overfitting. This study proposes an interactive feature-fusion neural network (IFFN) for three-dimensional (3D) fault recognition. First, the IFFN adopts a U-shaped network structure, leveraging techniques such as three-dimensional (3D) depth-separable convolution, mixed-hole convolution, and upsampling to address feature redundancy caused by conventional con-volutions. Dropout layers are incorporated into each convolution block to suppress overfitting and enhance the generalization ability of the network. Second, the IFFN introduces an attention mechanism to emphasize the relationship between features, considering the inherent relationships among fault structures. Finally, the IFFN employs an interactive feature-fusion layer that effectively combines low- and high-level features to mitigate feature loss during the convolution process, ensuring accurate feature extraction. The flexibility of the interactive feature-fusion layer allows customization according to specific task require-ments by adjusting the number of layers in the encoder and decoder. Experimental evaluations conducted on the FaultSeg3D dataset, which is enhanced to address overfitting, demonstrates that the IFFN achieves superior performance. The IFFN exhibits a 10% reduction in network complexity with only 2.76 million parameters compared with that of traditional U-shaped networks. Furthermore, it attains an impressive intersection-union ratio of 86.4%. The proposed 3D fault identification method in this study provides a valuable approach for improving fault-recognition for earthquake interpretation.
Prevalence and Regional Distribution of Beta-Hemoglobin Variants in Saudi Arabia: Insights from the National Premarital Screening Program" Running Title: Burden of Beta-Globin Variants in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Aljabry Mansour , Sulimani Suha , Alotaibi Ghazi , Aljabri Hassan , Alomary Shaker , Aljabri Omar , Sallam Maha , Alsultan Abdulrahman
Published: July 2024

Background
Hemoglobinopathies are among the most prevalent inherited disorders globally, with carrier prevalence varying significantly across regions. In Saudi Arabia, high rates of consanguineous marriages amplify the risk of these disorders.
Aim
This study aims to assess the burden of hemoglobinopathies by evaluating the prevalence and regional distribution of beta-hemoglobin variants, including rare variants, among couples participating in the national premarital screening program.
Methods
Data were collected from the premarital genetic screening program and entered into the SEHA platform, covering the 13 administrative regions of Saudi Arabia. Blood samples underwent various screening tests for infectious and genetic diseases. Hemoglobin electrophoresis samples were analyzed using capillary electrophoresis, High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), or a combination of both methods.
Results
From 2011 to 2018, 1,871,184 individuals were enrolled in the study, with 49.8% male and 50.2% female. The average age was 30.2 years. Hemoglobin S (HbS) was identified in 88,431 individuals (4.7% of the tested population and 78.5% of abnormal screening results), primarily as a sickle cell trait. β-thalassemia was the second most common disorder, identified in 22,420 individuals (1.2% of the population and 19.9% of hemoglobin disorders). Rare variants such as HbO-Arab, HbD, HbG, HbC, HbE, and Hb Lepore were infrequently detected.
Conclusion
The study demonstrates regional variation in the prevalence of hemoglobin genetic variants in Saudi Arabia. Enhancing public education and awareness, particularly focusing on genetic screening and counseling, is crucial to mitigate this risk.
MVCRNet: A Semi-Supervised Multi-View Framework for Robust Animal Pose Estimation with Minimal Labeled Data
Authors: Zeng Xianghao , Zhang Jikai , Zhu Zhaoli , Guo Dongliang
Published: July 2024

Due to its high dependence on labeled data, animal pose estimation faces significant challenges in practical applications. Effectively utilizing large amounts of unlabeled data to improve the accuracy of pose estimation has become an urgent research topic to be addressed. In this paper, we propose the MVCRNet, which is designed to label a minimal amount of data at a low cost, while effectively utilizing large amounts of unlabeled data for accurate animal pose estimation. We first train an initial model on the limited set of labeled samples, and then use this model to generate preliminary pseudo-labels for the unlabeled data. Given the inevitable presence of noise in these pseudo-labels, the framework adopts the small loss trick coupled with confidence evaluation to retain only those pseudo-labels that satisfy both low loss and high confidence. However, this approach may be overly cautious, potentially discarding pseudo-labels of inferior quality that still contain learning value. To address this problem, we innovatively incorporate a multi-view based triple consistency checking strategy aimed at detecting and relabeling pseudo-labels containing potential learning value within high-loss, low-confidence samples, and a teacher-student consistency constraint strategy that further strengthens the stability and accuracy of the model throughout the training process. Experimental evaluations on two challenging datasets, AP-10K and Zebra, show that our method consistently outperforms existing semi-supervised algorithms, demonstrating its effectiveness and sophistication for animal pose estimation under data-constrained conditions. Our code and datasets are available at https://github.com/cf2xh123/MVCRNet.
Selection of accelerometric time histories for the Lazio region (Italy) by clustering of probabilistic seismic hazard data
Authors: Hailemikael Salomon , Martini Guido , Mascandola Claudia , Barani Simone , Zini Alessandro , Peloso Alessandro
Published: July 2024

Selection of accelerometric time histories is a fundamental step in seismic microzonation studies as well as in structural and ground response analyses. In this study, we propose an update of the procedure of Mascandola et al. (2020) for record selection in vast areas, which is based on cluster analysis of seismic hazard data to identify zones (called mesozones) that are homogeneous in terms of seismic hazard. This procedure was applied in the Lazio region in Central Italy. For each mesozone, two conditional spectra (computed for two conditioning oscillator periods) were defined and then adopted as reference for the selection of real accelerometric records. Such records were selected from a large sample of accelerograms that include earthquakes having magnitude and distance consistent with the seismic scenarios controlling the hazard. Before record selection, two algorithms for seismic mesozonation were compared: K-means and spectral clustering. We found that the latter provides a zonation that is more consistent with the spatial distribution of the seismic hazard as well as of hazard disaggregation, and is therefore suggested for record selection in vast areas.
Adolescent’s health and well-being into the COVID-19 pandemic: A two-wave prospective investigation – The HUNT Study
Authors: Kvaløy Kirsti , Sund Erik Reidar , Rimehaug Tormod , Pape Kristine , Ingul Jo Magne , Rangul Vegar
Published: July 2024

Purpose
Using data on Norwegian adolescents, this study aimed to explore changes in mental health, quality of life, somatic health complaints and loneliness into the COVID-19 pandemic, also considering the changes according to socioeconomic position (SEP).
Methods
The study involved a cross-sectional comparative design with data from Young-HUNT4 (2017–2019) (n = 4347) and Young-HUNT COVID (May/June 2021) (n = 2033), aged 16–19 years. Additionally, longitudinal changes from Young-HUNT4 (n = 1565), aged 13–15 years, with follow-up in Young-HUNT COVID were explored. The impact of SEP was investigated through regression analyses and investigating prevalence changes in high and low SEP groups.
Results
In the cross-sectional comparison, boys and girls reported higher levels of loneliness and mental distress (boys only) into the pandemic compared to before, while general health and quality of life remained stable. Longitudinally, all factors changed adversely except for general health in boys. Comparing younger (13–15 years) with older (16–19 years) adolescents from Young-HUNT4, demonstrated the same adverse pattern as in the longitudinal sample. Poor health, poor quality of life and loneliness were more prevalent in the low compared to the high SEP group. In the low SEP group, mental distress, poor general health and life quality worsened in boys while improved in girls during the study period.
Conclusion
Except for mental distress in boys, general health and life quality did not deteriorate in the study period, although loneliness increased in both sexes. In the low SEP group, girls seemed to cope better than boys where health and well-being even improved.
Menstrual experiences of adolescent female school pupils in England
Authors: Brooks Alice , Maybin Jacqueline A. , Harper Joyce C
Published: July 2024

Background
Menstruation can negatively impact quality of life (QoL), particularly during adolescence. In addition to physical and emotional symptoms, there is a stigma surrounding menstruation and a lack of support and education; which can have detrimental effects on wellbeing. This study aims to (1) explore if girls in schools across South East England feel that periods affect their wellbeing, (2) to understand the support and education that girls receive and (3) to suggest changes to improve menstrual health education and support in English schools.
Methods
Eight focus groups were carried out in four schools, two in each school, with a total of 49 year-10 girls participating (all cisgender). Four questions were asked in each focus group relating to the girls’ attitudes to having a period, how their period affected their wellbeing, the support they need and how could education be improved.
Results
The girls had mostly negative attitudes about periods, and said their periods negatively impacted their physical, emotional, and social QoL, affecting areas such as friendships, schoolwork, and socialising. They expressed a desire for more menstrual education and for boys to be included. They wanted improved menstrual support, especially at school, in the form of access to period products, days off school, and emotional support.
Conclusion
This study highlights the negative impact that menstruation can have on the QoL of girls. It also shows the need for improved support and education for both boys and girls from an early age; which may help dissipate period stigma and increase QoL.
Antiproliferative activity of Hoslundia opposita leaf extract and fractions against a human glioblastoma cell line (U251)
Authors: Ajibare Abosede Christiana , Ebuehi Osaretin Albert Taiwo , Adisa Rahmat Adetutu , Sofidiya Margaret Oluwatoyin , Akinyede Kolajo Adedamola , Samuel Titilola Aderonke , Olugbuyiro Joseph A.O. , Iyiolaa Helen Adeola , Phillips Oluwagbemiga Mofolorunsho
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND: The ineffectiveness of many known anticancer agents for treating several cancer types, especially glioblastoma (GMB), which affects the body's central nervous system, is highly important. GBM is highly invasive and recalcitrant and accountsfor 42% of all central nervous system tumors and 60% of all brain tumors in adults, with a median survival of 15 months. The limitationsencountered in GBM treatment necessitate the discovery and development of new drugs.
METHODS: To investigate the anticancer activity of Hoslundia oppositaleaf extracts and fractions against a human glioblastoma cell line (U251) and human keratinocyte HACAT cell line, standard methods, MTT, clonogenic and caspase3 and 7 assays were used to determine the viability of the cells and colony formation and apoptotic activities, respectively. The fluorescent probe dyes dihydrofluorescindiacetate (DCFH-DA) and tetramethylrhodamine (TMRE) were used to determinethe intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) concentration and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), respectively, in the cells.
RESULTS: The crudemethanolic extracts and fractions of H. opposita leaves exhibited moderate cytotoxic and selective activity within the range of concentrations tested (25-100 µg/ml). The study revealed that crude AHO1 and specific fractions of AHO5 and AHO6 inhibitedmetastasis or colony formation, promoted apoptosis in the U251 cell line and depolarized the mitochondrial membrane potential, which was likelymediated by mitochondria-dependent ROS generation. Overall, the specificity and dose dependenceof the different treatments were observed for the U251 cell line.
Conclusions: The antiproliferative activities of Hoslundia opposita Vahl demonstrated by the crude extract and specific fractions against U251 cells warrant further investigations todecipher its mechanism of action.
England and Russia: The Beginnings of the Struggle for the Pacific Colonies, 1700–1750
Authors: Petrov Aleksandr Yu. ,   Institute of World History of the Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: July 2024

The article is about the development of the struggle between Russia and England for colonies in the North Pacific Ocean. The purpose of our research is to show the relationship between events in the North Pacific Ocean and the general course of colonization of new territories. The interest of Peter the Great in England is considered. The article identifies factors that contributed to the development of the American northwest, including the level of geographical knowledge in both countries about the borders of America and Asia. It is shown that their study became a complex and multifaceted process in which English and Russian navigators took part, and it was controlled by the state authorities of both countries. The importance of the initiative of private commercial companies in the development of territories is emphasized. It is noted that Great Britain initially pursued a cautious policy, which gave way to an active phase at the end of the 18th century. If Great Britain’s interest was primarily associated with the search for a northern route from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean, then Russia’s advance to the north-west of America was due to economic and political reasons. The article looks at the changes in the attitude of Russia as well as England in relation to the territories under consideration throughout the period under study. It is concluded that the peculiarities of sailing in the waters of the Pacific Ocean made a collision on the high seas less likely than in coastal waters and on land, where Russian fur hunters were subsequently opposed by representatives of the Hudson’s Bay Company. The article is written on the basis of an interdisciplinary approach, using archival sources. The results we obtained can be used in the theoretical and practical parts of interaction with the countries of the Asia-Pacific region, as well as England.
The Daily Life of the Cheremkhov Miners in the Year of the Great Turning Point: The Collective Agreement of 1930
Authors: Plotnikova Maria M. ,   Irkutsk State University, Ilyina Anna V. , Dyatlova Elena V. ,   Irkutsk State University,   Irkutsk State University
Published: July 2024

The article is devoted to the everyday life of the Cheremkhov workers through the content of the Collective Agreement of 1930 concluded between the Cheremkhov Union of Miners and the Mine Administration. In regional historiography, the topic of everyday life of coal industry workers has not been disclosed, which determines the scientific novelty and relevance of this article. The Contract determined the amount of wages, conditions of employment, production standards, provision of work clothes and housing, it recorded a list of working specialties with a description of the level labor mechanization. The purpose of the study to analyze the everyday life of Cheremkhov workers. The authors used the case study method, source and comparative analyses, a systematic approach, and the concept of Siberia industrialization by V. P. Zinoviev. The Document was adopted in the year of the Great Turning Point – the transition from the legal functioning of the labor market to the prohibition of market relations. The text of the Contract reflects both the inertia of the previous era and the emerging realities of the new era of labor relations. Its primary characteristic is the decisive role of party bodies, which prescriptively determine the main parameters of production standards. The priority was to increase labor productivity, increase output, and consolidate working hours. In conditions of predominance of manual labor and weak mechanization, this led to an increase in the exploitation of workers. At the same time, the Document protects some workers’ rights in the sphere of work and life, so the authors compare it with the Collective Agreement of 1904 between Baku workers and Caspian oil industrialist. There are no fundamental differences between these documents, and the working and living conditions have not changed since 1904. The authors concluded that the terms of the 1930 Agreement indicate that even such a highly paid and politically privileged part of the workers of Siberia as the Cheremkhov miners lived in difficult housing conditions and were forced to maintain vegetable gardens and livestock.
Practices and Effectiveness of Online Teaching of English in Bangladeshi Universities: Implications for a Revised TPACK
Authors: Hasan Md. Mahamudul ,   School of Educational Studies, Universiti Sains Malaysia 11800 USM Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Abdullah Muhammad Kamarul Kabilan ,   Department of English, Pabna University of Science and Technology, Pabna 6600 Bangladesh,   School of Educational Studies, Universiti Sains Malaysia 11800 USM Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Published: July 2024

This paper reports an empirical study on the practice and effectiveness of online EFL teaching during COVID-19. Teachers had to shift to an online mode of teaching very suddenly with no previous experience and without much preparation. Their practices and effectiveness were investigated using the Technological Pedagogical and Content Knowledge (TPACK) theoretical model as the framework. A mixed method research design was planned and carried out in Bangladeshi universities using a web-based survey and in-depth interviews. Data from 50 university English teachers highlight the need for a student-oriented perspective in teacher education and the creation of online teaching-based teacher development programmes (TDP) to enhance students’ experiential learning in online platforms, in line with the ‘learning technology by design’ approach. More importantly, the element of “Context” (XK) and “Classroom Management Knowledge” (CMK) have emerged as important ‘new’ tenets of TPACK. Hence, a revised version of TPACK is suggested. Further research and discussions are advocated before it could be established and propagated as an acceptable version of TPACK.
In-Service Teacher Training: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Arwildayanto Arwildayanto ,   Faculty of Education, Universitas Negeri Gorontalo, Jenderal Sudirman St., No. 6, Kota Tengah Sub-district, Gorontalo District, Gorontalo Province, 96128 Indonesia, Yusuf Yunisrina Qismullah , Nellitawati Nellitawati ,   Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Syiah Kuala Aceh, Teuku Nyak Arief St., No. 441, Kopelma Darussalam, Syiah Kuala Subdistrict, Banda Aceh District, Aceh, 23111 Indonesia,   Faculty of Education, Universitas Negeri Padang, Prof. Dr. Hamka St., Air Tawar, Padang Utara Sub-district, Padang District, Sumatera Barat, 25171 Indonesia
Published: July 2024

The present study was devoted to acquiring complex information regarding in-service teacher training (INSETT) and evaluating the most relevant topics in the future through a bibliometric analysis. Data mining was performed using the "in-service teacher training" keyword as input to the Scopus database, as it is considered a complete and ideal data source. The VOSviewer software was employed as an analysis tool to visualise networks of authors, countries, journals and keywords. A total of 541 analysed documents have been published from 1954 to 2022. The number of in-service training publications fluctuates due to the author's productivity. The peak was in 2021, with a total of 33 articles. The most productive countries that publish INSETT documents were the United States and some European countries, while Indonesia is in the big 40. Guglielmo Trentin and Kleopatra Nikopoulou were the authors who produced the most documents and many citations. The INSETT topic has greatly been published by the Procedia Social and Behavior Science supported by Routledge publisher. The Journal of Teaching and Teacher Education has referenced topics with a great link strength with INSETT. The most frequent themes include teacher training, personnel training, "e-learning", continuing professional development, information and communication technologies and open distance learning.
Firma Özelliklerinin Finansal Raporların Yayınlanma Zamanlamasına Etkisi: Borsa İstanbul'da İşlem Gören Şirketler Üzerine Ampirik Bir Analiz
Authors: Merter Abdullah Kürşat , Çerez Sedat , Balcıoğlu Yavuz Selim , Özer Gökhan
Published: July 2024

Günümüzün globalleşen ekonomisinde zamanında ve doğru finansal raporlamanın önemi her zamankinden daha fazla artmıştır. Bu raporlar, bir şirketin finansal sağlığı ve performansını detaylı olarak ortaya koymakta ve yatırımcılara, kredi sağlayıcılara ve diğer ilgili taraflara bilinçli kararlar almak için kritik bilgiler sunmaktadır. Finansal raporların yayınlanma zamanlamasını belirlerken iyi ve kötü haberlerin ağırlıklarına göre bazı stratejiler belirlemektedir. Şirketler, genellikle kurumsal itibarlarını desteklemek ve hissedar ile potansiyel yatırımcıların güvenini artırmak için olumlu haberlerini hızlı ve piyasanın açık olduğu dönemlerde açıklama eğilimindedir. Öte yandan şirketler, olumsuz piyasa tepkilerini en aza indirmek ya da geciktirmek için kötü haberleri saklama ya da piyasanın kapalı olduğu dönemlerde açıklama eğiliminde olabilmektedir. Bu stratejiler sayesinde firmalar, hissedarların ve yatırımcıların üzerinde olumlu veya olumsuz bir etki yaratmayı ve haberlerin etkisini en iyi şekilde kontrol etmeyi amaçlamaktadır. Bu çalışmanın amacı, finansal raporlama zamanlılıklarının firma özelliklerine bağlı olarak değişip değişmediğini incelemektedir. Bu amaçla 2009-2019 yılları arasında Borsa İstanbul'da işlem gören şirketlerden elde edilen 2345 firma/yılı verisi kullanılarak lojistik regresyon analizi gerçekleştirilmiştir. Araştırmanın sonuçları, firma büyüklüğü ve finansal kaldıraç gibi firma özelliklerinin finansal raporların hafta içi veya hafta sonu açıklanma zamanlaması üzerinde anlamlı bir etkisi olduğunu göstermektedir. Bu bulgular, finansal raporlamada zamanlama stratejilerinin, firmanın bazı özelliklerine bağlı olarak değişiklik gösterebileceğini ortaya koymaktadır. Özellikle, firmaların olumlu veya olumsuz haberleri nasıl ve ne zaman açıklayacaklarına karar verirken kullandıkları stratejilerin hem kendi özelliklerini hem de piyasa koşullarını göz önünde bulundurduklarını göstermektedir.
Mevsimlik Gezici Tarım İşçiliğinde Aile, Akrabalık ve Toplumsal Cinsiyet Bağlamında Kadının Durumu
Authors: Ökten Şevket
Published: July 2024

Mevsimlik gezici tarım işçiliği birçok faktörün etkisinde gelişen, kadın, erkek, çocuk ve yaşlı bütün aile bireylerinin katıldığı ve genelde akrabaların/tanıdıkların birlikte hareket ettiği bir iş gücü biçimidir. Çalışma ilişkilerinin aile birimi üzerinden kurulması, kadınların mevsimlik gezici tarım işçiliği sürecine yoğun bir şekilde katılmalarının en önemli nedenidir. Türkiye’deki gezici mevsimlik tarım işçiliğinin en yoğun olduğu bölge Güneydoğu Anadolu Bölgesi ve en yoğun olan il ise Şanlıurfa’dır. Bu durum, Bölge’nin ve Şanlıurfa’nın sosyal ve ekonomik özgül koşulları ile doğrudan ilişkilidir. Bu çalışmanın analiz ve yorumları, mevsimlik gezici tarım işçileri konusunda başkaları tarafından yapılmış çalışmalar ile Şanlıurfa’da yaşayan mevsimlik gezici tarım işçileriyle 2023 yılında tarafımızca gerçekleştirilmiş bir saha araştırmasının kadınlar ile ilgili bölümün verilerinden oluşmaktadır. Yöntem kısmında daha detaylı ele alınan bu çalışmada toplam 644 kişiye anket, 42 kadın işçiyle derinlemesine görüşme gerçekleştirilmiştir. Çalışmada, mevsimlik tarım işçilerinin gittikleri çalışma alanlarına da taşıdıkları akrabalık ilişkilerinin ve bölgede egemen toplumsal cinsiyet değerlerinin kadının tarla ve yaşam alanlarındaki konumu, iş yükü ve emeği üzerindeki tasarrufunu nasıl etkilediği ele alınmıştır. Çalışmanın sonucunda; mevsimlik gezici tarım işçiliğinde kadın ve kız çocukların emeğinin son derece önemli bir konumda olmasına karşın, bölgede geçerli olan akrabalık ideolojisi ve toplumsal cinsiyet değerlerinin etkisiyle kendileriyle ilgili neredeyse hiçbir konuda yeterince etkili olamadığı görülmüştür. Bu değerlerin, eğitim, sağlık, çalışma ve yaşam alanlarındaki neredeyse tüm konularda kadınların aleyhine olacak bir şekilde işletildiği ve kadınların hem çalışma koşulları bakımından hem de yaşam alanlarında erkeklere göre daha fazla zorluk çektiği görülmüştür.
Does the Exchange Rate Have a Pass-Through Effect on Domestic Food Prices in Türkiye? An Empirical Study Using a Combined ANN Algorithm and VAR Method
Authors: Çam Salih
Published: July 2024

Exchange rate fluctuations have far-reaching consequences for national economies, companies and, above all, consumers. It is therefore important to understand the mechanisms by which these fluctuations affect food prices in domestic markets. In this context, we examine the complex relationship between exchange rates and domestic food prices and attempt to calculate the pass-through effect of the exchange rate on domestic prices. To examine the pass-through effect of the exchange rate on food prices, we use monthly USD/TRY exchange rate data from January 2003 to July 2023 as well as the global food price index, the export-import rate for food and the producer price index for food in Türkiye. We employ the vector autoregression (VAR) method to determine the optimal lags of the variables included in the analysis and the artificial neural network (ANN) algorithm to calculate the overall pass-through effect of the USD/TRY exchange rate on domestic food prices. The results show that the pass-through effect of the variable on food prices persists for three months: the current month, the previous month and the two previous months. The total pass-through effect of the exchange rate on food prices reaches up to 27%. Half of this impact comes from the previous month's food prices. In addition, the ratio of food exports to imports accounts for about 12% of the increase in domestic food prices. The results also show that the variable with the highest pass-through effect is the producer price index and that 90% of the increase in food prices is due to domestic dynamics, while the effect of price increases in foreign markets is only about 10%.