bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knights and Gold Stars: A Case Study of InnerSource Incentivization
Authors: Dey Tapajit , Jiang Ning (Willem) , Fitzgerald Brian
Published: April 2022

Given the success of the open source phenomenon, it is not surprising that many organizations are seeking to emulate this success by adopting open source practices internally in what is termed InnerSource. However, open source development and InnerSource operate from fundamentally different foundations and thus need to be incentivized differently. To the best of our knowledge, there is no significant account of a successful InnerSource incentivization program. Here we describe a comprehensive InnerSource program and structured incentive scheme implemented at Huawei, one which has led to a very successful outcome.
Noise-assisted nonlinear estimation of a one-bit ADC output and its application to a multi-antenna receiver
Authors: Saito Masato , Nakashima Yasuo , Yamazato Takaya , Arai Shintaro , Hatano Hiroyuki , Tanaka Hiroya , Tadokoro Yukihiro
Published: April 2022

One-bit analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) are now emerging owing to their high power efficiency, simple structure, and high sampling rate. Even with the strong nonlinear behavior of the ADC, a linear representation of the ADC output can be obtained, which enables the investigation of systems with ADCs in a linear framework. For example, the ADC output can be decomposed into a linear term describing the input and an uncorrelated residual fluctuation with the Bussgang decomposition. However, this linear term alone cannot adequately represent the nonlinearity of the ADC, and the overall system performance degrades in the high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) region. This paper presents a different approach for decomposing a one-bit ADC output within the stochastic resonance (SR) framework, which utilizes the noises in the input signal. First, we decompose the one-bit ADC output into the symbol-wise expected value and the residual fluctuation.

Then, this expected value is further decomposed into linear and nonlinear higher-order terms. We theoretically show the importance of higher-order terms and demonstrate how the higher-order terms contribute to the performance of channel estimation and signal demodulation in a multi-antenna receiver.
ULA Fitting for MIMO Radar
Authors: Shi Wanlu , Li Yingsong
Published: April 2022

Nowadays, sparse multiple input and multiple output (MIMO) radar design considers the difference coarray of the sum coarray (DCSC) concept and the uniform degrees of freedom is improved significantly. Current sparse MIMO arrays are designed based on transmit and receive arrays with hole-free difference coarrays (DCAs). Recently, the uniform linear array (ULA) fitting (UF) principle is proposed which aims to design sparse arrays (SAs) with desired capacity using cascaded ULAs. However, SAs designed via UF can not guarantee hole-free DCAs. In this letter, we aim to use SAs designed via UF to devise sparse MIMO arrays with low mutual coupling. Strategies of using SAs with non hole-free DCA to design sparse MIMO arrays is introduced as well. Numerical simulations verifies the good performance of the proposed sparse MIMO array in high coupling scenarios.
A Quantum Beta Distributed Multi-Objective Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm for Twitter Fake Accounts Detection
Authors: Aboud Ahlem , Rokbani Nizar , Mirjalili Seyedali , Hussain Amir , Chabchoub Habib , Alimi Adel M.
Published: April 2022

Fake account detection is a topical issue when many Online Social Networks encounter several issues caused by the growing number of unethical online activities. This study presents a new Quantum Beta-behaved Multi-Objective Particle Swarm Optimization (QB-MOPSO) algorithm for machine learning based Twitter fake accounts detection. The proposed approach aims to improve the learning process of deep neural networks, random forest, through minimizing simultaneously the feature dimensionality and the classification error rate. The main contribution consists in proposing a quantum beta MOPSO to handle the training phase of neural and deep architectures. The QB-MOPSO is used to perform a multi-objective training of the random forest algorithm. The QB-MOPSO has two optimization profiles: the first one uses a quantum-behaved equation for improving the exploratory behaviour of PSO, while the second one uses a beta function to enhance PSO’s exploitation. An extensive experimental study is carried out using two open Twitter datasets with 1982 and 928 accounts. The new proposal is a random forest QB-MOPSO. Results showed that random forest QB-MOPSO accuracy is about 99.19% and 97.52% accounts on datasets 1 and 2. Comparative analysis of the prosed architecture toward the original architecture showed that the use of QB-MOPSO for learning enhances the random forest algorithm which perform then the original ones.
Caesarean Myomectomy - Intracavitary Enucleation through Lower Segment Incision
Authors: Roy Dr. Indrani , Jain Dr. Punam
Published: April 2022

Routine caesarean myomectomy is not a standard procedure and has been condemned in the past due to fear of uncontrolled haemorrhage and peripartum hysterectomy. However, it may be considered a safe option in carefully selected cases in the hands of an experienced obstetrician. In this case, we describe a 35-year-old primigravida posted for elective caesarean section in view of breech presentation. Intraoperatively a 6 *7 cm anterior intramural fibroid was noted which was removed by intracavitary approach through lower segment uterine incision, thus reducing uterine scar and future adhesions. Increasing evidence suggests that myomectomy can be performed concurrently with caesarean section without an increased risk of blood transfusion or hysterectomy.
Gabapentin and Prevention of Post-Operative Nausea and Vomiting (PONV)
Authors: Tusher Dr. Saiful Mahmud , Saha Dr. Panna Lal , Chowdhury Dr. MD. Nazmus Sakeb , Hossain Dr. MD. Emdad , Ara Dr. Nuzhat , Biswas Dr. Sushmita , Nasrin Dr. Sultana , Khanam Dr. Halima , Afrin Dr. Sazia
Published: April 2022

Background: Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a major complication after abdominal surgery. Gabapentine has versatile role in case of convulsion and neuropathic pain management. Recently it has been used for the prevention of PONV. Objective: To evaluate the action of prophylactic gabapentin in preventing PONV in Laparoscopic cholecystectomy patients. Methods: It was a randomized placebo-controlled, double-blind study conducted in the Department of Anesthesiology, Dhaka Medical College Hospital from August 2016 to January 2017. A total number of 220 patients were selected by purposive sampling. They were divided into 2 Each group 110. After obtaining a detailed history, General physical and systemic examinations were done for all enrolled patients, after obtaining a detailed history and relevant investigations were done. The results were tested by chi-square test to see their level of significance level at <0.05. Results: Of the 220 patients, 51.81% male and 48.18% were female patients respectively belonged to the study group whereas 55.45% and 44.54% were male and female patients. The mean age of the study group and control group were 45.31±13.63 and 47.03±15.51. The mean BMI in both groups was 23.69±3.12 and 24.17±4.73. The mean arterial pressure in both groups was 96.73±8.19 and 93.35±6.37. The total mean of intravenous fluid study and control group were 1233.7±29.5 and 1139.83±55.69. The total duration of surgery in the study group was 51.77±3.95 and the control group was 46.63±7.89. From the point of view of PONV, gabapentine has shown significantly higher efficacy than placebo (P=<0.05). Out of 53 patients affected by PONV in the study group 13(24.52%), 30(56.60%), and 10(18.86%) patients were categorized as mild-moderate and severe PONV whereas 29(26.36%) 71(64.54%) and 20(18.18%) were upholder as their counterpart in the control group. In severe grade, there was no statistically significant difference found between the groups but in mild...........
Dorsal Digital Artery Island Flap is an Effective Technique for Coverage of Finger Defect
Authors: Islam Dr. Md. Salek Bin , Islam Dr. Md. Robiul , Rashid Dr. Md. Abdur , Azad Dr. Md. Asadujjaman , Barshan Dr. Anindita Das , Akter Dr. Monija
Published: April 2022

Background: Reconstruction of soft tissue defects in fingers is a challenging problem and continues to evolve. A variety of flaps for reconstructing small-to-moderate defects have been described, but none is beyond drawbacks. The purpose of this study is to report and to evaluate the efficacy of the use of dorsal digital island flaps (DDIF) for the reconstruction of finger defects. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted from January 2020 to September 2021 in the Burn and Plastic Surgery Department at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital. A total of 10 DDIF, based on either proximally or distally, were done in 9 patients. Most of the causes of defects were electrical burns. All flaps survived with minimal complications to the donor finger. Results: Among 10 digits, the mean defect size was 4.24 (±2.34) cm2, ranging from 1.92 to 5.95 cm2. Defects were observed: 4 in middle fingers, 3 in thumb, 2 in ring fingers, and one in index finger. 6 fingers were in right hand. DDIF covered the defects on volar (5 cases), dorsal (4 cases), and both (1 case) surfaces. According to site, one case had defect on proximal phalanx with 3rd web space, 4 instances had on proximal phalanx, defect involving on both proximal and middle phalanx was in one case and rest 4 cases had defect on distal phalanx. Among 10 DDIF, 7 (70%) flaps were survived without any loss. Rest 3 (30%) cases had marginal necrosis (less than 2 mm loss) but did not require further procedure. Conclusion: DDIF is a reliable and effective option for finger defect coverage.
Synthesis of Antimony Selenide (Sb2Se3) by Wet Milling: Structural Properties
Authors: Sifawa A. A , Abdullahi S. , Sifawa Mamuda. A
Published: April 2022

Single-phase bulk Sb2Se3 compound was synthesized by mechanical alloying using elemental precursors, Sb and Se. The collected sample has been successfully characterized by X-Ray diffraction for the wet mill to investigate the formation of Sb2Se3 phase. The XRD results analysis found that Sb2Se3 single phase was formed in 13 hours of milling. Raman shifts of 188 and 252cm-1 for wet as-milled Sb2Se3 had been recorded. EDS exhibits two strong peaks confirming the purity of our sample by detecting only Sb and Se elements, respectively.
New onset of Myasthenia Gravis in Patients with COVID-19: is it Causal or Coincidental?
Authors: Berrada Malika , Bidaoui Zahra El , Mouhdi Mohammed Amine , Rafai Mohammed Abdoh , Otmani Hicham El , Moutawakil Bouchra El
Published: April 2022

COVID-19 pandemic is caused by highly infectious SARS-CoV-2. Observational studies have documented several neurological complications or associations either during or after the COVID-19. Some of them, have reported some case reports regarding COVID-19 in patients with a known history of myasthenia gravis (MG) but new onset of autoimmune MG in patients with COVID-19 is scarcely reported. Here, we report two novel cases of new-onset autoimmune MG following COVID-19 and describe the clinical and paraclinical findings in the context of other scarce reported cases.
Morphological Variations of Mandibular Lingula in Dried Adult Nigerian Bones
Authors: C Ibeachu, P. , K David L. , Hart Hart , S J.
Published: April 2022

The lingula of the mandible (also known as Spix spine) is a finger like bony projection or ridge on the medial surface of the ramus of the mandible, immediately superior to the mandibular foramen. This study aims to determine the morphology and precise location of mandibular lingula in dry adult mandibles. A total number of 42 dry adult mandible gotten from the Department of Anatomy University of Port-Harcourt were used for this study. The four various shapes of lingula were bilaterally determined, classified, measured with Vernier calipers and statistically analyzed. The most predominate found was truncated shape (41.6%), followed by triangular shape (39.27%), while the nodular and assimilated were less prevalent having (9.52%) respectively. Bilateralism were observed in the various shapes but more evident in the truncated and triangular shape. There was no statistically significant difference in the mean right and left values. The right and left mean lingula height were 7.00±1.03 and 7.14±1.11 respectively. The right and left mean lingula distance from anterior were 17.13±3.27 and 17.26±3.44 while the right and left lingula distance from the posterior ramus of the mandible were 17.46± 3.12 and 17.58± 3.03. The right and left mandibular ratio were 0.30±0.25 and 0.52±0.04 respectively. The study has provided a useful data which may give clue of the relevant anatomical structures to dental surgeons during surgical procedures. However, establishment morphological variations of mandibular lingula is very necessary in every population considering it clinical significance in oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures.
Hormonal and Hematologic Profile of Pre-Diabetic and Diabetic Patients in the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital
Authors: M AlemeB. , I Omeodu S.
Published: April 2022

This examination investigated haematologic and hormonal profile in human diabetic subjects. The assessment solidified the human diabetic subjects and took the blood analytes to screen for diabetes. 120 male and female human subjects containing forty subjects each for control, pre-diabetics, and diabetics (three sets) facilitated for age, sex, height, weight and BMI were enrolled into the assessment reliant upon decided measures. Twenty each of the three sets of human subjects were males and females independently. Every illustration of blood serum and plasma was explored using Randox and Accubind packs and an autoanalyser to test for various biochemical and hematological limits. The overall results revealed a colossal differentiation (p≤0.05) in the limits of the analytes, except for that of Na+. Contributions to Knowledge: Based on the findings, analytes are good for predicting and managing DM, by comparing the blood analytes of non-diabetics, pre-diabetics, and diabetics in order to monitor the onset of diabetes and proffer possible solutions to enhance early detection and manage diabetes.
“Comparative Evaluation of Caudal Tramadol and Adjuvant to Bupivacaine in Paediatric Age Group”
Authors: Rahman Md. Mahbub Ur , Islam Md. Shafiqul , Billah SM Masum
Published: April 2022

Background: Caudal anaesthesia is a type of regional anaesthesia in which local anesthetic is injected into epidural space. It is most popular regional anaesthesia with a predictable level of blockade used in paediatric surgeries. Adjuvants can be added to local anaesthetics for prolonging the duration of analgesia. Objective: To find out the duration of analgesia of caudal Bupivacaine in combination with Tramadol. Methods: This prospective, randomised, double-blind, comparative study was done in Department of Anesthesiology, Sher-e-bangla Medical College Hospital, Barishal, Bangladesh from June to December 2020. Total of 50 patients, aged between 2 to 9 years undergoing elective lower abdominal, urological and lower extremity surgeries. The patients were randomized to group A (n=25) receiving 1 ml/kg of 0.25% bupivacaine and group B (n=25) receiving 1 ml/kg of 0.25% bupivacaine plus 1mg/kg of tramadol caudally. Duration of analgesia, hemodynamic responses and adverse effects were noted and analysed. Results: Thirty patients in both groups were comparable with regard to demographic data and hemodynamic response and were statistically non-significant (P>0.05). It was observed that the mean duration of analgesia was significantly longer in group B (468.5±164.5 min versus 241.5±69.4 min, P<0.001). One patient in each group had postoperative vomiting. Conclusion: This study concludes that Tramadol 1 mg/kg can be added to 0.25% Bupivacaine for caudal analgesia with total volume of 1 ml/kg to prolong the duration of postoperative analgesia in children undergoing lower abdominal, urological, lower extremity surgery without an increase of adverse effects.
A Comparative Study Endoscopic Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy in the Treatment of Obstructive Hydrocephalus Secondary to Posterior Fossa Tumour
Authors: Shah Walayat , Shah Syed Nasir , Ali Sajid , Ullah Anwar , Imranullah Imranullah , Shoaib Muhammad
Published: April 2022

Background: Hydrocephalus is a clinical condition characterized by increased amount of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain. It results in dilatation of ventricles, increase intracranial pressure, brain atrophy, neurological impairment and even death. The management of hydrocephalous needs diversion, either intracranial or extracranial. The traditional treatment for all kind of hydrocephalous has been the implantation of ventricular shunt system. Endoscopic third ventriculostomy has been accepted as the procedure of choice for the treatment of obstructed hydrocephalous in adults and children. Methods: In this study, a total of 94 patients diagnosed with posterior fossa tumor and obstructive hydrocephalus were selected in a consecutive manner from the outpatient department and subjected to ETV. Glasgow coma scale (GCS) at baseline & follow up were recorded to determine good or bad clinical outcome. Objective: To determine the outcome of Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy in the treatment of Obstructive hydrocephalus secondary to Posterior fossa tumour in dhq hospital Mardan out of 94 patients. Results: The mean age of the patients was 10.82 + 4.49 years. Of the whole sample, we had 64.9% of males and 35.1% females. The mean GCS on baseline of our group of patients was 9.4 + 1.2 which was improved to 12.7 + 1.3 after Endoscopic third ventriculostomy. (p value 0.000). Good clinical outcome was observed in 71.3% of patients while bad clinical outcome in 28.7% of patients the mean age of the patients was 10.82 + 4.49 years. Of the whole sample, we had 64.9% of males and 35.1% females. The mean GCS on baseline of our group of patients was 9.4 + 1.2 which was improved to 12.7 + After Endoscopic third ventriculostomy. (p value 0.000). Good clinical outcome was observed in 71.3% of patients while bad clinical outcome in 28.7% of patients. Conclusions: Endoscopic third ventriculostomy is a preferred treatment for patients who had obstructive hydrocephalus due to posterior fossa t
Efficiency Appraisal of Cocoa Farming in Ondo State, Nigeria
Authors: O Odegbade O. , S Aina O. , E Igelige G. , B Hassan , J Mshelia K.
Published: April 2022

The study analyzed the costs and returns of cocoa farming in Ondo State, Nigeria. The socio-economic characteristics, sources of finance, cost and returns and constrain associated with cocoa production were examined. Data were collected from 90 respondents by means of structured questionnaire. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, ranking and budgetary analysis. The results revealed that, average age of the respondents was 57.2 years. This indicates that majority of the respondents are aged, male (78.9%), married (75.6%), had more than 20 years farming experience (53.3%) and source their capital through personal savings (94.4%). The gross margin analysis showed that cocoa production incurred a total variable cost of ₦64,588.38 and earned total revenue of ₦90,584.50 per hectare with gross margin of ₦25,995.12 and total cost of ₦74,059.09 and net revenue of ₦16,524.41. The Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR) was1.22. This is an indication that for every naira invested on cocoa production there is a gain of 22 kobo. The RTS of the variable inputs was 1.359 which implies that cocoa production resources were underutilized. The analysis of the estimated gamma coefficient (γ) showed that there was technical inefficiency effect in the production of cocoa in the study area. The major constraints to cocoa production were inadequate credit facilities, high cost of transportation, labour inadequacy, low produce price, high cost of fertilizer, pest and diseases, theft, bad weather and poor infrastructure. The study recommends, Construction of good road by government to reduce cost of transport and spoilage. Introduction of extension education programmes for the Farmers by government, to improve their technical knowledge and skills and Cocoa farmers should be encouraged by Government and Non-Governmental organization to have access to adult literacy education in order to enlightening them on the benefit of loan from formal source.
Gambaran Penggunaan Swamedikasi Obat Sistem Pencernaan Di Apotek Formula Banjarmasin
Authors: Muliyani Muliyani , Isnani Nazhifah , Auliya Syafitri Nur
Published: April 2022

Swamedikasi merupakan penggunaan obat oleh seseorang untuk pengobatan diri sendiri yang dilakukan berdasarkan diagnosa gejala sendiri tanpa berkonsultasi dengan dokter atau pengobatan yang dilakukan tanpa resep dokter. Swamedikasi cenderung mengalami peningkatan dikalangan masyarakat untuk mengatasi gejala atau penyakit yang dianggap ringan, Provinsi Kalimantan Selatan memiliki swamedikasi dengan presentase tertinggi yaitu sebanyak 85,26% atau peringkat pertama di Indonesia pada tahun 2020. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui obat yang sering diswamedikasikan untuk mengobati gejala atau penyakit gastritis, diare, dan konstipasi di Apotek Fomula Banjarmasin. Jenis penelitian yang dilakukan adalah deskriptif retrospektif non analitik dengan teknik pengambilan sampel purposive sampling dengan menggunakan data sekunder. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian diperoleh swamedikasi obat gastritis yang paling sering digunakan ialah Promag tablet (31,79%), swamedikasi obat diare yang sering digunakan ialah New Diatab (44%), swamedikasi obat konstipasi yang sering digunakan ialah Dulcolax tablet (52%).
The Disparity of Criminal Implementation in Case of Child Intercourse and Molestation As Seen From The Perspective of Decidendic Ratio Theory
Authors: Asyhari Fahmy
Published: April 2022

This study aimed at examining the factors that cause the disparity of punishment in cases of sexual intercourse and molestation of minors, especially in Salatiga City, the impact of the occurrence of criminal disparities, and how the policy model for criminal acts of sexual intercourse and obscenity should be seen from the decidendi theory. The results of the study showed that the disparity in criminal penalties in criminal cases with children as victims is the existence of internal and external factors. Internal factors is in the form of a judge's own personality. While external factor is the legal factor or the legislation itself and the situation factor in the person who is in the perpetrator or defendant. The judge must be careful in seeing, digging, and observing the facts in the trial. Judges must pay attention to the attitude of prudence, avoiding carelessness, both formal and material to technical skills. The judge needs to give reasons or considerations following the values of truth and justice (ratio decidendi). The judge must also use common sense or rational thinking by paying attention to the previous judge's decisions to avoid striking disparity in sentencing. Currently, the judiciary in Indonesia, especially in the Salatiga District Court, still uses the method of imposing sentences based on trial examinations only. This causes court decisions issued by judges to have differences between one decision and another, which is called criminal disparity. The research method used by the researcher was a juridical-normative research method equipped with an in-depth case approach using the ratio decidendi theory. The technique of collecting legal materials used was a literature study. The legal material analysis technique used was deductive data analysis.
MK in the Aftermath of Rivonia (1963 – 1976)
Authors: Ronnie Kasrils
Published: April 2022

How and why MK managed to survive the Rivonia blows is relevant inany overall appraisal of the history of the armed struggle as undertakenby MK (1961-1990).
The Convergence of Nanotechnology, Biotechnology and Cancer Medicine in the Fourth Industrial Revolution
Authors: Steven Mufamadi  , Zamanzima Mazibuko
Published: April 2022

Medical technologies of the fourth industrial revolution (Industry 4.0), such as nanotechnology, biotechnology, artificial  intelligence (AI), 3D printing and advanced materials are already transforming medical technology and the pharmaceutical industry by offering accurate diagnoses, targeting therapies with fewer side effects, and providing better medical imaging and personalised medicine.
Googling the US Electoral Cycle, 2004-2016: South African Insights
Authors: Bhaso Ndzendze
Published: April 2022

The US electoral cycle is one of the most closely watched political events in the twenty-first century. Indeed, in each successive year, new records are broken for expenditures on advertising by the campaigns. The digital sphere has become the main arena in which the various campaigns reach out to potential voters. By one 2019 estimate, “spending for political ads will reach $10 billion, an increase of 59% from the 2016 election year when an estimated $6.3 billion was spent. This represents a potential 16.5% of total local broadcast TV advertising revenue for 2020. Digital media is forecast for 21% of political ads, cable TV 14% and radio nearly 5%” (Adgate, 2019). This disproportional share for digital spending is indicative of what scholars have termed as the rise of computational politics, defined by one study as “the application of digital targeted-marketing technologies to election campaigns” (Chester and Montgomery, 2017: 1).
Burying Bob
Authors: Joost Fontein
Published: April 2022

The death of Robert Mugabe, or 'Rob' as he was irreverently known by many Zimbabweans, was always likely to be something of an event.
Reviving Decommissioned Ventilators How a Circular Economy Approach Can Assist in Tackling the South African Shortage of Ventilators during Covid-19
Authors: Katharina Gihring  , Nickey Janse van Rensburg
Published: April 2022

Sub-Saharan Africa bears the highest disease burden in human and economic costs, but commands less than one percent of global health expenditure (Aikins et al., 2010).
The Rise of in the Time of Covid-19 Machiavellian Realism
Authors: Anton M. Pillay
Published: April 2022

The theories of liberalism and realism have for approximately half a millennium provided those wanting to understand human behaviour with a ‘lens’ to view the world.
The ongoing challenge of violence against women and children in South Africa. Why are we deeper in crisis?
Authors: Shahana Rasool
Published: April 2022

Gender Based Violence (GBV) has been referred to as the Shadow Pandemic, since it has tripled internationally from the startof the outbreak of COVID-19. The increased rates of reported GBV around the globe have ranged from 30% to 200%. We have seen high numbers of GBV reports in SA as well, with the GBV toll-free emergency hotline reporting 120 000 calls in the first three weeks of lockdown.
A Cosmopolitan Ghetto: The Shifting Image of Kibera Slum From ‘Flying Toilets’ to a Centre for Metropolitan Innovation
Authors: John M. Wambui
Published: April 2022

It has become customary, when conceptualising twenty-first-century urban landscapes, to describe them as existing in two states. The first state is one in which scholars of modern metropolises conceptualise them as new articulations of social, economic, and political identity.
Ronit Frenkel in Conversation with Dale McKinley
Authors: Dale McKinley
Published: April 2022

Ronit Frenkel (RF): We’re going to be discussing mostly your last two books today, but before we start, maybe you can tell me a little bit about your background?

Dale McKinley (DM): Sure. I was born and raised in Zimbabwe, with parents who had come f rom the United States as teachers. I grew up in the 1960s and 70s during the Liberation War in Zimbabwe. I left to go and study in the United States in the 1980s, and eventually received a PhD in International Political Economy through the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. I then returned back home in 1990, arriving in South Af rica in early 1991 to do my dissertation.
Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) In Africa: Challenges and Prospects
Authors: Kennedy Mahlatsi
Published: April 2022

The implication of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable development is that Africa’s structural transformation must be anchored by the principles of sustainable development. It is noted that Agenda 2030 does not provide political economy approach to understanding the genesis and cycles of poverty and inequality. The article further noted that Africa lags most significantly behind in its achievement of the SDGs, with a lower percent of countries achieving target by 2030 than any other region. Only limited progress towards achieving human development related SDGs is likely. However, due to their strong inclusivity focus, the SDGs present a better opportunity to involve more effectively different stakeholders. Achieving 2030 Agenda and Agenda 2063 calls for the African Union to focus more on implementation and follow up mechanisms, using monitoring frameworks that are robust enough to translate strategies into concrete development outcomes. The article argues that neoliberalism undermines the ability of developing countries in achieving sustainable development because of its emphasis in promoting the interest of the market at the expense of social and environment development. The article proposes the sustainable development model, which integrates economic, environmental and social objectives, to fully replace current growth-led models. To achieve pro-poor growth, countries must develop policies that have the potential of increasing growth and reducing poverty simultaneously. The article concludes that it is impossible to eradicate poverty without radically changing the system of global industrial capitalist production. In addition, Africa must develop holistic and all-encompassing approach with a view to achieving of SDGs while reformulating the short-term and mid-term policies during and the post-COVID period. Achieving the objective of eradicating extreme poverty and leaving no one behind by 2030 will be difficult if corruption and other development challenges are not seriously tackled.
Contributing Authors
Authors: Ronit Frenkel
Published: April 2022

The University of Johannesburg acquired The Thinker in April 2019 from Dr Essop Pahad. Over the last decade, The Thinker has gained a reputation as a journal that explores Pan-African issues across fields and times. Ronit Frenkel, as the incoming editor, plans on maintaining the pan-African scope of the journal while increasing its coverage into fields such as books, art, literature and popular cultures. The Thinker is a ‘hybrid’ journal, publishing both journalistic pieces with more academic articles and contributors can now opt to have their submissions peer reviewed. We welcome Africa-centred articles from diverse perspectives, in order to enrich both knowledge of the continent and of issues impacting the continent.
The Rise of Fake News: Surveying the Effects of Social Media on Informed Democracy
Authors: Candice Chirwa  , Zimkhitha Manyana
Published: April 2022

Scholarly research has shown that the role of media and information (a crucial variable in the success of democracy) has been eroded by misinformation, propaganda, and controversy. This paper observes that social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter are critical agents for disseminating news from various news outlets, including the spreading of popular opinion on political discourse. In hindsight, these platforms inform the basis of true freedom of speech, freedom of information, and political participation. However, influential political leaders, such as former United States president Donald Trump, have abused this privilege by pronouncing unfiltered ‘fake news’ that have led to topical incidences such as the invasion of the Capitol. Terrorist groups have turned what could have been an activist and liberation platform (considering the online Arab spring revolution) into a mechanism to conduct propaganda and recruitment campaigns. This article aims to explain ‘fake news’ and the effects it can have on democratic society post-Covid-19. The research was conducted by gathering data from popular press outlets such as The New York Times, The Washington Post, BBC News, CNN, and BuzzFeed. It considers some solutions to mitigate fake news: critical to these is the need for a well-informed society to distinguish facts from falsities and ambiguities. This paper also argues for improving fact-check initiatives in global social networks and for a change in social media value systems from being content- to quality-based.
Heterosexism and Homophobia in the Caribbean Dancehall Context
Authors: Chapman Nathan , Maharaj Sangeeta , Seeberan Melanie , Houlder Emmarica
Published: April 2022

This paper explores how dancehall lyrics reproduce heterosexist and homophobic discourses in the LGBTQ community within a Caribbean dancehall context. It advances notable scholarship (Chunnu 2021, Hope, 2021) on dancehall lyrics by drawing on standard parallels of the colonial same-sex practices used to denigrate enslaved Africans and the Eurocentric religious ideal that LGBTQ customs contravene Judeo-Christian doctrine. Dancehall music originated in Jamaica within the neo-colonial period (since the 1980s) coming out of reggae. Dancehall is the musical expression of the working-class black masses used to protest the criminogenic continuities of colonial history. Although dancehall acted as a form of protest against the colonially entangled inequalities, heterosexism prevailed and continued to shape the checkered reality of coloniality within Jamaica and T&T societies. As such, this study explores the present-day identities of the LGBTQIA community expressed through the dancehall lyrics created within the 1990-2010 period utilising autobiography, critical discourse analysis by Fairclough and gender performativity theory by Judith Butler. In doing so, the researcher connected dancehall lyrics to heterosexism through an analysis of discourses within religion, sex and sexuality. Such discourses contributed to advancing the understanding of stigmatisation, criminalisation and dehumanisation of the LGBTQ community in a cross-cultural Caribbean context.
Contributors to this edition
Authors: Frenkel Ronit
Published: April 2022

The University of Johannesburg acquired The Thinker in April 2019 from Dr Essop Pahad. Over the last decade, The Thinker hasgained a reputation as a journal that explores Pan-African issues across fields and times. Ronit Frenkel, as the incoming editor, plans on maintaining the pan-African scope of the journal while increasing its coverage into fields such as books, art, literature and popular cultures. The Thinker is a ‘hybrid’ journal, publishing both journalistic pieces with more academic articles and contributors can now opt to have their submissions peer reviewed. We welcome Africa-centred articles from diverse perspectives, in order to enrich both knowledge of the continent and of issues impacting the continent.
Colonialism and Historical Imagination
Authors: Motaung Tlhabane Mokhine ‘Dan’
Published: April 2022

Ethnic identity has continued to undermine national unity and integration across post-colonial Africa, and South Africa seems to be no exception. Post-apartheid South Africa has been bedevilled by the spectre of ethnic politics in a way which shows the durability of toxic ethnicity. Ethnic identities in Africa and South Africa in particular, were forged by colonial powers and apartheid (in the case of the latter) through identity construction and the classic strategy of divide and rule. Fluid pre-colonial social ‘identities’ were recast and calcified into hide-bound, immutable and toxic ethnicity that was invested with a separatist consciousness underwritten by corresponding differential economic livelihoods. This study argues for the need to dig deeper into history to understand the state of pre-colonial identities and how colonial designs constructed the latter to undermine resistance by indigenous people and therefore to perpetuate its domination.
Editor's Note
Authors: Williams Robyn , Otto Lisa
Published: April 2022

Emerging and advanced technologies continue to creep into public and private life. Particularly forceful, the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) is unavoidable. New and advancing technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data and the Internet of Things have injected themselves in big and small ways in various aspects of daily life. Lavopa and Delera (2021) note that 4IR is much more than a ‘technological leap forward’; indeed, this industrial revolution is likely to have much wider-reaching consequences than any other than has come before it.
The Impact of Digital- Driven Warfare on Africa
Authors: Van Nieuwkerk Anthoni
Published: April 2022

Modern warfare is becoming more technological and increasingly employs advanced technologies. Advances in precision location,targeting and strike, navigation, large data transmission, weapon-system range and manoeuvrability, and the growing importance of the outer space and cyber domains are collectively altering the ‘spatial dimensions’ of warfare. But are these rapidly evolving technologies and their use in defence and warfare relevant to developing nations and Africa in particular? There still exist high barriers to implementation, especially in countries with weak military research and development infrastructures. This article examines these 4IR-induced shifts in warfare thinking and practice, and focuses on the implications for Africa. It also probes the options open to states to prepare for the use of digital technologies in the warfare domain, in particular drones and their application. It concludes with a number of recommendations for African security decision-makers to enhance innovative, effective, and efficient security sectors [1].
The Fourth Industrial Revolution and the Political Settlement in South Africa’s Mining Industry
Authors: Ndlovu Xichavo Alecia , Ngwane Zamangwane , Mongae Mmabatho
Published: April 2022

Literature on the advent of 4IR has focused on the disruptive features of 4IR for the workplace and the role 4IR will play in enhancing economic growth and productivity. However, less is written about whether and how 4IR technologies may affect and be affected by the existing political settlement, especially in developing countries like South Africa. We investigate whether and how the adoption of technological advancements associated with 4IR would affect (and be affected by) the political settlements in South Africa’s mining industry. We argue that the displacement of workers can shift the balance of power against organised labour and in favour of mining companies. Nonetheless, the impact of 4IR is not predetermined. South Africa’s mining industry is a contested terrain, and the existingpolitical settlement is likely to influence the process, pace, and extent of adopting 4IR technologies.
Contemporary Campus Life
Authors: McCracken Donal P.
Published: April 2022

It is with a certain hesitation that one opens a new book about the work experience written by a former colleague. Flicking nervously to the index I am relieved to see my name is not mentioned, only moments later to be mortified on flicking through his 244-page apologia to see my name up in lights. So, we shall start with a shoddy index. That and the 1970s drab brown cover do not speak well for a good read. Then the acknowledgements contain this ominous paragraph: ‘These chapters are constituted and rewritten from columns published in UKZNdabaOnline, with others from UKZNtouch, SUBtext, Wits Review, the Sunday Times and some other published and original materials. The first of these he wrote as the Griot, the oral storyteller of African communities. The chapters have been edited, updated and the original ideas elaborated on and offered here in essay form, rather than as columns.’ So, the 1970s are pushed back to the 1950s when in South Africa the common if quaintly outdated practice of selected published columns actually sold books. A quarter of a century ago I recall advising a celebrated journalist and broadcaster not to even think of such a retrograde step. And yet, like some remarkable madcap Grand Design, Tomaselli has succeeded where others have failed. The book is a success.
Contributors to this edition
Authors: Williams Robyn , Otto Lisa
Published: April 2022

Contributors to this edition
EVALUASI KEBIJAKAN PELESTARIAN ZONASI DAN CAGAR BUDAYA DI KAWASAN DATARAN TINGGI DIENG
Authors: Gumelar Gandhes Kusuma , Rully
Published: April 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan: (i) mengetahui kebijakan pemerintah terkait pelestarian zonasi dan cagar budaya di Kawasan Dataran Tinggi Dieng; (ii) mengevaluasi kebijakan yang sudah ada dengan kondisi eksisting cagar budaya di Kawasan Dataran Tinggi Dieng; dan (iii) memberikan rekomendasi berupa program kebijakan terkait pelestarian zonasi dan cagar budaya di Kawasan Dataran Tinggi Dieng. Pelestarian kawasan cagar budaya rawan berbenturan dengan konflik kepentingan antara pemangku kebijakan dan masyarakat di kawasan. Kawasan cagar budaya di Dataran Tinggi Dieng ditetapkan dalam bentuk zonasi oleh pemerintah. Observasi lapangan memperlihatkan terjadi penyimpangan fungsi kawasan yang digunakan sebagai lahan pertanian oleh masyarakat setempat maupun terdesak proyek pembangunan di sekitar kawasan. Sumber informasi menggunakan data primer (hasil wawancara, observasi dan dokumentasi dengan stakeholder) selanjutnya dilakukan dengan beberapa tahapan analisis secara kualitatif. Pendekatan konseptual digunakan untuk merumuskan rekomendasi kebijakan mengenai pelestarian zonasi dan cagar budaya di Kawasan Dataran Tinggi Dieng. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan: (i) kebijakan pemerintah terkait pelestarian zonasi dan cagar budaya di Kawasan Dataran Tinggi Dieng sudah ada, namun praktiknya di lapangan belum maksimal; dan (ii) rekomendasi program kebijakan terkait pelestarian zonasi dan cagar budaya di Kawasan Dataran Tinggi Dieng dapat dilakukan dengan mengevaluasi peraturan terkait, meningkatkan kualitas daya tarik pendukung dan meningkatkan kesadaran serta SDM masyarakat.

Kata Kunci: Cagar Budaya, Dieng, Zonasi
ECO FRIENDLY HIGH EARLY STRENGTH SELF COMPACTING CONCRETE USING KAOLIN AND WASTE MARBLE DUST
Authors: Mowo Candra Latu , Arumningsih Dian
Published: April 2022

The growth and development of infrastructure in Indonesia is currently growing very rapidly, and the cement production process produces the second largest amount of carbon dioxide after waste, which plays an important role in the current global warming. Self compacting concrete is one of the biggest innovations in the field of construction, Self compacting concrete is one of the biggest innovations in the construction field, where this concrete has high workability but does not ignore compressive strength. Therefore, new, sustainable materials are needed to replace cement production, but they are also required for the workability required to make self-compacting concrete. Green concrete concept, the use of kaolin, and marble dust waste, can be a solution to replace some cement. This innovation research uses XRF or X-ray fluorescence methods to identify and analyze the constituent elements of self-compacting concrete innovations. In this study, self-compacting concrete was obtained using (marble dust waste) which replaced 15% cement, and kaolin which replaced 10% concrete waste. with the main element calcium oxide (CaO) and containing (SiO) can be used as an additive or partial replacement of cement in the manufacture of concrete and kaolin can be obtained from kaolin mines spread across Indonesia, and waste marble dust can be obtained from marble processing, for information 25% of the mass of marble will be lost in the cutting process obtained from marble companies in Solo Raya, the slump flow test measurement is carried out with reference to according to the rules of SNI 1972-2008 and the workability of self-compacting concrete also meets the required requirements. So it can be concluded that it can be a reference source by utilizing waste in Indonesia, easy to obtain, and effective.

 

Keywords: Self-compacting concrete, waste marble dust, kaolin
PERENCANAAN STRUKTUR PERKERASAN KAKU METODE AASTHO 1993 DAN NAASRA
Authors: Sumina  , Joko Priyanto Kusdiman , Handoyo Suryo
Published: April 2022

Perkerasan jalan adalah salah satu unsur kontruksi jalan raya yang sangat penting sebagai kelancaran transportasi darat sehingga dapat memberikan kenyaman dan keamanan bagi penggunanya. Untuk itu diperlu perencanaan yang  baik  berdasarkan standar dan kriteria perencanaan yang berlaku di indonesia. Dengan demikian perlu adanya perencanaan jenis perkerasan apa yang layak dan efisien.  Penentuan perencanaan nilai rancang tebal perkerasan kaku (Rigid Pavement) dapan direncanakan dan dihitung dengan banyak metode. Metode yang dilakukan  dalam  perencanaan tebal  perkerasan  kaku  pada ruas  jalan  Tangen  –  Ngrombo dipilih   metode   AASTHO   1993   (America   Association   of   State   Highway   and Transportation Officials 1993) dan metode NAASRA (National Association Of Australian State Road Authorities). Data primer didapatkan berdasarkan hasil penelitian lansung dan data sekunder diperoleh dari DPU Bina Marga Kabupaten Sragen. Setelah dilakukan perhitungan dan didapatkan data data Lalulintas Harian Rata-rata (LHR), Jumlah Sumbu Kendaraan Niaga (JSKN) , CBR tanah dasar dan Curah Hari Hujan maka dalam perhitungan dengan methode AASTHO 1993   didapat tebal rigid pavement 250 mm dengan hasil kebutuhan tulangan dowel Ø32 – 300 mm dengan panjang 450 mm, tulangan tie bar Ø13–800 mm dengan panjang 650 mm, hasil perhitungan  tulangan memanjang dan melintang sebesar Ø13 – 375 mm. Sedangkan menggunakan metode NAASRA dengan hasil perencanaan tebal rigid pavement 270 mm dengan hasil kebutuhan tulangan dowel Ø32 – 300 mm dengan panjang 450 mm, tulangan tie bar Ø12 – 1200 mm dengan panjang 635 mm, dan kebutuhan tulangan memanjang dan melintang sebesar Ø13 – 350 mm.
PENYESUAIAN DESAIN PASAR KANJENGAN SEMARANG MENUJU KLASIFIKASI BANGUNAN GEDUNG HIJAU
Authors: Saraswati Ratri  Septina , LMF Purwanto
Published: April 2022

Perancangan bangunan gedung termasuk pasar rakyat harus memenuhi beberapa persyaratan yaitu SNI Pasar, persyaratan bangunan gedung, aksesibilitas dan persyaratan gedung hijau. Bangunan Gedung Hijau mengutamakan pada penghematan energi dengan cara menetukan orientasi bangunan Utara-Selatan untuk mengurangi pemanasan karena sinar matahari, ventilasi dalam ruangan, pemnafaatan  pencahayaan alami semaksimal mungkin, dan pengelolaan limbah, sampah, air, dan pemanfaatan material hijau. Apabila dalam tahap perencanaan belum terpenuhi, maka perlu dilakukan peninjauan ulang desain sebelum permohonan izin membangun diajukan.