bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND DEPRAVITY: OBSERVATIONS ON THE EARLY RECEPTION OF DANTE AND BOCCACCHIO IN BULGARIA (1878 – 1918)
Authors: ILIEVA Boyka
Published: February 2024

The current study focuses on the presence of the Italian classic authors Dante, Petrarch and Boccaccio
in the period from the National Liberation to the end of World War I.
The reception scope after the National Liberation is actually hard to trace and some surprising findings might appear
on the horizon, especially regarding the scattered in periodicals texts. The published translated books are not indicative of the
reception range during the analyzed period and they constitute only a small part of it. A large number of works by the most
popular authors reached the Bulgarian audience through translations published in periodicals, textbooks and anthologies.
Moreover, a lot of translated works did not appear in specialized philological publications, but in the literary sections and
serials of daily newspapers.
As early as the first decade after the Liberation, the classics missing from the Revival catalogue of translated
literature started to appear. The Bulgarian reader became acquainted with the sporadic works of authors studied at school like
Dante, Petrarch, Boccaccio, Torquato Tasso, Ludovico Ariosto, Carlo Goldoni, Vittorio Alfieri, Giacomo Leopardi and Ugo Foscolo.
In the defined period, the classic authors were not among the most influential translated Italian writers for the
Bulgarian audience during the epoch. This is evidenced by the limited distribution of Konstantin Velichkov’s translation of
Inferno, which managed to attract the interest of only a small circle of intellectuals.
A main reception factor is the taste of the reading audience, which predominantly in the postliberation conditions
still lacked structured esthetic criteria and preferred more common and comprehensible literature.
Studi Identifikasi Kemagnetan, Positioning dan Pencitraan Pipa Bawah Laut di Perairan Semarang
Authors: Yulianto Yulianto , Widodo Kukuh Suryo , Kuncoro Yudi
Published: February 2024

Indonesia merupakan negara kepulauan yang dua per tiga wilayahnya adalah perairan. Sebagai negara kepulauan peran pelabuhan sangat vital dalam perekonomian Indonesia. Kehadiran pelabuhan yang memadai berperan besar dalam menunjang perdagangan ekspor-impor dan berperan dalam merangsang pertumbuhan kegiatan ekonomi.  Pelabuhan Tanjung Emas Semarang yang terletak di pantai Utara Jawa Tengah merupakan satu-satunya pelabuhan di kota Semarang yang memiliki fasilitas pendukung dalam bidang perkonomian dan pertahanan yang cukup besar di Pantai Utara Jawa.
Medan magnet menyerupai suatu medan dari batang magnet yang sangat besar dan pusatnya berhimpitan dengan bumi serta mempunyai gaya tarik magnet yang melingkar. Hal ini menunjukkan bahwa di seluruh permukaan bumi memiliki kuat medan magnet tersendiri. Pada perairan Semarang, Jawa Tengah merupakan pintu gerbang perekonomian pada kota-kota lain di wilayah Jawa Tengah, diharapkan aman bagi lalu lintas pelayaran menuju Pelabuhan tanjung Emas. Untuk mendeteksi tingkat kemagnetan logam khususnya pipa bawah laut, maka dilakukan survei kemagnetan dengan menggunakan alat Multibeam Echosunder, Magnetometer dan Side Scan Sonar pada tanggal 08 Juli s.d 26 Agustus 2020.
Hasil identifikasi kemagnetan pipa bawah laut pada area tersebut menggunakan software Caris Hips Ships, Oasis Montaj,  dan SonarWiz untuk mengolah data bathymetri dan kemagnetan serta image yang dihasilkan Side Scan Sonar sehingga dapat mengetahui klasifikasi medan magnet, dan sumber anomali terdapat di bawah dasar laut atau di sekitar perairan. Dari hasil investigasi menggunakan Magnetometer dan SSS ditemukan 5 (Lima) pipa bawah laut dengan nilai intensitas kemagnetan rata-rata sebesar 10.442 nT. Dalam pendeteksian pipa bawah laut dengan menggunakan Magnetometer posisi pipa bawah laut masih memiliki perbedaan posisi terhadap hasil overlay dengan PLI 91 tahun 2019 skala 1 : 50.000 Edisi Ketujuh Desember 2016 Terkoreksi BPI No.52 – 2016.
Perumusan Karakteristik Gelombang Perairan Halmahera Utara dan Morotai
Authors: Mudho Hendrik Trio , Azies Ibnu , Pranowo Widodo Setiyo
Published: February 2024

Halmahera Utara dan Morotai, dua pulau yang terletak di Kepulauan Maluku Utara, Indonesia, merupakan wilayah yang kaya akan keanekaragaman hayati laut dan memiliki potensi besar dalam sektor maritim, perdagangan, dan perikanan. Kedua pulau ini memegang peran strategis sebagai jalur penting dalam transportasi maritim dan perdagangan regional. Dinamika gelombang laut di wilayah ini dapat memiliki dampak signifikan pada berbagai aspek, mulai dari keselamatan pelayaran hingga kesejahteraan ekosistem pesisir. Oleh karena itu, pemahaman yang mendalam tentang karakteristik gelombang laut di perairan ini menjadi esensial. Karakteristik gelombang laut mencakup tinggi, periode, dan panjang gelombang dominan, gelombang signifikan, gelombang alun, dan gelombang angin. Informasi ini tidak hanya penting untuk keselamatan pelayaran tetapi juga untuk pengembangan potensi ekonomi kelautan. Dalam konteks perubahan iklim global yang semakin meningkat, variasi dan perubahan dalam karakteristik gelombang dapat menjadi indikator penting untuk memahami kondisi perairan yang berubah. Penelitian ini menggunakan data sekunder dari Marine copernicus  , sebuah platform data kelautan global, dalam rentang waktu dari tahun 2012 hingga 2021, untuk merumuskan karakteristik gelombang perairan di Halmahera Utara dan Morotai. Metodologi penelitian mencakup pemilihan lokasi penelitian, pengumpulan data, analisis statistik data gelombang, identifikasi pola musiman dan tahunan, serta pengolahan data menggunakan perangkat lunak ODV (Ocean Data View). Hasil menunjukkan variasi yang signifikan dalam tinggi gelombang selama 10 tahun. Tinggi gelombang signifikan berkisar antara 0,2 hingga 2,69 meter. Faktor seperti angin, arus laut, dan topografi laut memengaruhi tinggi gelombang. Hasil dari penelitian ini diharapkan dapat memberikan wawasan ilmiah yang berharga dan rekomendasi praktis bagi berbagai pemangku kepentingan di sektor kelautan. Dengan pemahaman yang lebih baik tentang karakteristik gelombang laut di wilayah ini, penelitian ini diharapkan dapat berkontribusi untuk meningkatkan keselamatan pelayaran tetapi juga untuk pengembangan potensi ekonomi kelautan di Halmahera Utara dan Morotai.
Peningkatan Data Tinggi dan Kecepatan Hanyut Gelombang pada Sistem Informasi Fusi Oseanografi STTAL
Authors: Miranto Miranto , Widodo Setiyo Pranowo  , Arta Adhi Surya
Published: February 2024

Sistem Aplikasi Basis Data Fusi Oseanografi merupakan hasil kerjasama antara STTAL dengan Marine Coastal Data Laboratory (MCDL) Pusat Riset Penelitian Kelautan dan Perikanan dan Badan Riset Inovasi Nasional (BRIN) pada tahun 2019 yang bertujuan untuk pengelolaan data observasi dan teknologi prediksi Oseanografi Nasional. Pengembangan yang berkelanjutan dengan menambahkah variabel baru seperti Gelombang Angin dan Kecepatan Hanyut Gelombang sangat di butuhkan dalam pemutakhiran Basis Data. Dalam Tugas Akhir ini dilaksanakan pengolahan data Gelombang Angin dan kecepatan Hanyut Gelombang Permukaan selama tahun 2021 dan 2022. Data penelitian bersumber dari Copernicus Marine Environment Monitoring Service (CMEMS). Gelombang tersebut kemudian di olah menggunakan software ODV versi 5.3.0 untuk menghasilkan peta Gelombang Angin dan Kecepatan Hanyut Gelombang dan dilakukan komputasi menggunakan Software Microsoft Excel untuk mengetahui nilai dari Kecepatan Hanyut Gelombang Permukaan. Hasil pengolahan selanjutnya di unggah kedalam Basis Data Fusi Oseanografi untuk ditampilkan pada Aplikasi Android Fusioseanografi V4 untuk dapat di akases bagi pengguna. Penelitian ini menghasilkan  peta variabel Gelombang Angin dan Kecepatan Hanyut Gelombang permukaan yang di aplikasikan kedalam 12 WFO disetiap tahun dengan setiap WFO berjumlah 12 bulan dengan setiap bulannya berjumlah 1 gambar. Pengolahan selama 2 tahun sehingga menghasilkan peta hasil ploting sejumlah 288 gambar. Hasil penelitian selama 2 tahun didapatkan nilai tertinggi Gelombang Alun berada di bulan Desember 2021 dan bulan Maret di tahun 2022. Keduanya memiliki tinggi Gelombang 4m. Himbauan untuk keselamatan pelayaran pada bulan ini sangat penting mengingat gelombang yang berbahaya bagi keselamatan pelayaran.
Barley preferentially activates strategy-II iron uptake mechanism under iron deficiency
Authors: Aksoy Emre
Published: February 2024

Plants utilize two main strategies for iron (Fe) uptake from the rhizosphere. Strategy-I is based on the reduction of ferric (Fe3+) to ferrous (Fe2+) iron by ferric chelate reductase (FCR) and is mainly observed in dicots. Strategy-II utilizes the complexation of Fe3+ with phytosiderophores secreted from the plant roots and mainly evolved in Gramineous species, including barley (Hordeum vulgare). Recent studies suggest that some species use a combination of both strategies for more efficient Fe uptake. However, the preference of barley for these strategies is not well understood. This study investigated the physiological and biochemical responses of barley under iron deficiency and examined the expression levels of the genes involved in Strategy-I and Strategy-II mechanisms in the roots. Fe deficiency led to decreased root and shoot lengths, fresh and dry weights, and Fe accumulation in the roots. Parallel to the chlorosis observed in the leaves, FCR activity and rhizosphere acidification were also significantly reduced in the roots, while the release of phytosiderophores increased. Furthermore, Strategy-II genes expressed higher than the Strategy-I genes in the roots under Fe deficiency. These findings demonstrate that Strategy-II is more activated than Strategy-I for Fe uptake in barley roots under Fe-deficient conditions.
Image Creation about Africa Within the State-Owned Media Space: A Content Analysis of the Ghanaian Times Newspaper
Authors: Baah-Acheamfour Kwaku
Published: February 2024

This study attempted to find out the various images or themes that the Ghanaian Times as a State-owned Print Media in Ghana portrays about Africa through its reportage. Utilizing the gatekeeping, cultural imperialist, and framing theories, the study looked at the selection of stories by the editors and the final images that were portrayed about Africa per the stories selected for publication for five (5) years. Through content analysis, the study sampled 225 stories from the Ghanaian Times newspaper. The study hypothesized that the newspaper would frame Africa positively but the findings did not support that hypothesis. The study further delved into the sources of the African news as it was hypothesized that the Ghanaian state-owned newspaper would also pick the majority of its stories from indigenous African news agencies. The results again caused the claim to be rejected as the newspaper indeed relied more on Western media particularly the British Broadcasting Corporation for news on Africa. While there is the need to periodically research to find out about the state of Africa’s image in the media, it was recommended that the African media must reduce its dependence on foreign news agencies for stories on Africa as the tone of such stories is largely negative. The study contributes to the existing literature regarding Africa’s image in the media especially how Ghanaian media frames Africa.

Keywords – Africa, Image, Media Framing, News Sources
A FIXED-POINT TYPE RESULT FOR SOME NON-DIFFERENTIABLE FREDHOLM INTEGRAL EQUATIONS
Authors: Hernández-Verón Miguel A. , Singh Sukhjit , Martínez Eulalia , Yadav Nisha
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we present a new fixed-point result to draw conclusions about the existence and uniqueness of the solution for a nonlinear Fredholm integral equation of the second kind with non-differentiable Nemytskii operator. To do this, we will transform the problem of locating a fixed point for an integral operator into the problem of locating a solution of an integral equation. Thus, assuming conditions on the Nemytskii operator, we will obtain a global convergence domain for the solution of the considered integral equation, taking for this a uniparametric family of derivativefree iterative processes with quadratic convergence. This result provides us a new fixed-point result for the integral operator considered.
A Detection of Cosmological 21 cm Emission from CHIME in Cross-correlation with eBOSS Measurements of the Lyα Forest
Authors: Amiri Mandana , Bandura Kevin , Chakraborty Arnab , Dobbs Matt , Fandino Mateus , Foreman Simon , Gan Hyoyin , Halpern Mark , Hill Alex S. , Hinshaw Gary , Höfer Carolin , Landecker T. L. , Li Zack , MacEachern Joshua , Masui Kiyoshi , Mena-Parra Juan , Milutinovic Nikola , Mirhosseini Arash , Newburgh Laura , Ordog Anna , Paul Sourabh , Pen Ue-Li , Pinsonneault-Marotte Tristan , Reda Alex , Shaw J. Richard , Siegel Seth R. , Vanderlinde Keith , Wang Haochen , Wiebe D. V. , Wulf Dallas ,   The CHIME Collaboration
Published: February 2024

We report the detection of 21 cm emission at an average redshift

z

¯

=
2.3

in the cross-correlation of data from the Canadian Hydrogen Intensity Mapping Experiment (CHIME) with measurements of the Lyα forest from eBOSS. Data collected by CHIME over 88 days in the 400–500 MHz frequency band (1.8 < z < 2.5) are formed into maps of the sky and high-pass delay filtered to suppress the foreground power, corresponding to removing cosmological scales with k
∥ ≲ 0.13 Mpc−1 at the average redshift. Line-of-sight spectra to the eBOSS background quasar locations are extracted from the CHIME maps and combined with the Lyα forest flux transmission spectra to estimate the 21 cm–Lyα cross-correlation function. Fitting a simulation-derived template function to this measurement results in a 9σ detection significance. The coherent accumulation of the signal through cross-correlation is sufficient to enable a detection despite excess variance from foreground residuals ∼6–10 times brighter than the expected thermal noise level in the correlation function. These results are the highest-redshift measurement of 21 cm emission to date, and they set the stage for future 21 cm intensity mapping analyses at z > 1.8.
On the Evidence for Molecular Outflows in High-redshift Dusty Star-forming Galaxies
Authors: Nianias James , Lim Jeremy , Yeung Michael
Published: February 2024

Galactic-scale outflows of molecular gas from star-forming galaxies constitute the most direct evidence for the regulation of star formation. In the early Universe (z > 4), such outflows have recently been inferred from gravitationally lensed dusty star-forming galaxies (DSFGs) based on ubiquitous detections of OH absorption extending to more blueshifted velocities than [C ii] or CO emission in spatially integrated spectra. Because these lines are redshifted to submillimeter wavelengths, such measurements require careful corrections for atmospheric absorption lines, and a proper accounting of sometimes large variations in measurement uncertainties over these lines. Taking these factors into consideration, we reanalyze OH and [C ii] data taken with the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array for five sources where such data are available, of which four were categorised as exhibiting outflows. Based on their spatially integrated spectra alone, we find statistically significant (≥3σ) OH absorption more blueshifted than [C ii] emission in only one source. By contrast, searching channel maps for signals diluted below the detection threshold in spatially integrated spectra, we find evidence for a separate kinematic component in OH absorption in all five sources in the form of (i) more blueshifted OH absorption than [C ii] emission and/or (ii) a component in OH absorption exhibiting a different spatio-kinematic pattern than in [C ii] emission, the latter presumably tracing gas in a rotating disk. Providing a more complete and accurate assessment of molecular outflows in gravitationally lensed DSFGs, we suggest methods to assess the precision of corrections for atmospheric absorption better and to measure the source continuum in future observations more accurately.
Timing and Spectral Analysis of HMXB 4U 1700-37 Observed with Insight-HXMT
Authors: Xiao Hua , Ji Long , Zhang Peng , Ducci Lorenzo , Doroshenko Victor , Santangelo Andrea , Zhang Shu , Zhang Shuang-Nan
Published: February 2024

We report timing and spectral studies of the high-mass X-ray binary 4U 1700-37 using Insight-HXMT observations carried out in 2020 during its out-of-eclipse state. We found significant variations in flux on a timescale of kilo-seconds, while the hardness (count rate ratio between 10–30 keV and 2–10 keV) remains relatively stable. No evident pulsations were found over a frequency range of 10−3–2000 Hz. During the spectral analysis, for the first time, we took the configuration of different Insight-HXMT detectors’ orientations into account, which allows us to obtain reliable results even if stable contamination exists in the field of view. We found that the spectrum could be well described by some phenomenological models that are commonly used in accreting pulsars (e.g., a power law with a high energy cutoff) in the energy range of 2–100 keV. We found hints of cyclotron absorption features around ∼16 keV or/and ∼50 keV.
Measuring the Mass–Radius Relation of White Dwarfs Using Wide Binaries
Authors: Arseneau Stefan , Chandra Vedant , Hwang Hsiang-Chih , Zakamska Nadia L. , Pallathadka Gautham Adamane , Crumpler Nicole R. , Hermes J. J. , El-Badry Kareem , Rix Hans-Walter , Stassun Keivan G. , Gänsicke Boris T. , Brownstein Joel R. , Morrison Sean
Published: February 2024

Measuring the mass–radius relation of individual white dwarfs is an empirically challenging task that has been performed for only a few dozen stars. We measure the white dwarf mass–radius relation using the gravitational redshifts and radii of 135 white dwarfs in wide binaries with main-sequence companions. We obtain the radial velocities of these systems using the main-sequence companion, and subtract these Doppler redshifts from the white dwarfs’ apparent motions, isolating their gravitational redshifts. We use Gaia data to calculate the surface temperatures and radii of these white dwarfs, thereby deriving an empirical gravitational redshift–radius relation. This work demonstrates the utility of low-resolution Galactic surveys to measure the white dwarf equation of state. Our results are consistent with theoretical models, and represent the largest sample of individual white dwarf gravitational redshift measurements to date.
The development of a competency framework for architectural engineering graduates: Perspectives by the construction industry in Indonesia
Authors: Daryono Rihab Wit , Hidayat Nur , Nurtanto Muhammad , Fu'adi Athok
Published: February 2024

The discrepancy between competence and real work in engineering graduates can be resolved with cooperation by the construction industry. Therefore, it is necessary to determine the appropriate and required architectural engineering competencies with the current demands and conditions of the construction industry. So this study aims to analyze the determinants of competence and test the competency development model for architectural engineering graduates according to the needs of the construction industry. The research sample method is non-probability sampling using purposive sampling. The research sample consisted of 240 practitioners and trainers from 40 construction industry companies. The PLS-SEM technique was used to test the measurement and structural models (3 dimensions, 8 elements, 47 constructs/indicators, and 9 hypotheses). The competence of architecture graduates is determined by the dominant factor, namely Utilities and Building Construction (UBC1 & UBC2, λ = 89.90%), and Building Estimation and Costing (BEC7, λ = 73.30%) is the lowest factor. The ability of the structural model to explain architectural competency measurements is 36.20% in the moderate category. The predictive relevance value (Q²) explains 47.5% to 56.0% of the phenomena predicted in the field and explains the level of strength of the observed value in the structural model. Furthermore, 9 hypotheses from 8 dimensions have a positive and significant effect. The results of this study can be a recommendation for schools in the competency implementation model, and efforts to improve graduates' abilities and skills so that they can be absorbed by the construction industry and reduce unemployment.
Developing students’ chemical literacy through the integration of dilemma stories into a STEAM project on petroleum topic
Authors: Rahmawati Yuli , Erdawati Erdawati , Ridwan Achmad , Veronica Novita , Hadiana Deni
Published: February 2024

The aim of this study was to develop students’ chemical literacy by integrating dilemma stories into a Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) project on petroleum. Chemical literacy can help students face future challenges by applying what they learn at school to solve problems in their daily lives. A qualitative research method was employed that included interviews, observations, reflective journals, chemical literacy tests, and student activity sheets, as data collection tools. 106 secondary school students participated in the research using a project-based approach consisting of five steps: value reflection, problem-solving, project monitoring and evaluation, project development, and transformation. The five indicators of chemical literacy by Shwartz, Ben-Zvi, and Hofstein (2006); general scientific ideas, characteristics of chemistry, chemistry in context, higher-order learning skills, and affective aspect, the research found that the students’ chemical literacy abilities were significantly developed. This study uses a dilemma story to understand chemistry concepts whereby students can develop a project by integrating chemistry and STEAM principles. The STEAM Project involved making alternative fuel to find a solution to a problem presented in the dilemma story. The researchers were challenged by the need to find a suitable chemistry-based dilemma story to integrate with a STEAM project while also empowering students and managing time resources.
The impact on motivation of CLIL-izing EMI in science education. A longitudinal case study in pre-service teacher training
Authors: Nieto Moreno de Diezmas Esther , García Fernández Beatriz , Ruiz-Gallardo José Reyes
Published: February 2024

The objective of this study was to identify the impact of implementing English as a medium of instruction (EMI) drawing upon Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) methodology in science for pre-service teachers. Lecturers in modern languages and science education collaborated to design and implement the “CLIL-ization of EMI” intervention. The sample was made up of 105 students, 55 of whom were given instruction in English, and 50 in their mother tongue, Spanish. Two instruments for motivation in English and science were applied before the intervention, two weeks and one year afterwards. Additionally, an open-ended questionnaire was used with the experimental group to gain a more in-depth insight into student perception of EMI. Results showed that the short intervention did not impact motivation towards learning English, but it did effect that for science contents in the short and long term. The student stance on the experimental instruction of science in English was highly positive.
An assessment of the integration of ICTs into teaching processes by science teachers: The case of Albania
Authors: Ibrahimi Eliana , Miri Fundime , Koçiaj Inva
Published: February 2024

Many studies have recently focused on the importance of the effective integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools in science education and the need for science teachers to receive adequate training and support to use them effectively. This paper aims to explore the Albanian science teachers’ perceptions and use of ICTs in teaching processes. The study provides an interpretative analysis of the opinions of science teachers teaching in the middle and high schools of several Albanian regions expressed in an online survey. Overall, the results suggest that the use of ICT by science teachers in Albania is limited by a lack of proper infrastructure, limited access to technology, and training of teachers on integrating technology. However, there are indications that the adoption of ICT in science education may increase in the future, particularly after the boost from the COVID-19 pandemic emergency.
The role of social networks in communication in the scientific research community
Authors: Martin Gomez Sonia , Bartolome Muñoz de Luna Angel
Published: February 2024

Social networks have grown rapidly in recent years, enabling the application of social web technologies to the scientific process and creating platforms that enhance communication between researchers. The aim of this research is to go one step further and investigate whether the use of more general social networks, such as Twitter or Facebook, is also becoming more widespread for scientific research, thus contributing to the visibility of scientists and their collaborative networks. Social media analysis is carried out using the Brandwatch platform to assess the use of generalist social networks in research and compared with the use of scientific social networks through an online survey of university professors. The resulting conclusions show that scientific mentions in networks are rare and that, despite the importance of researchers having a profile in a social network, which allows them to give greater visibility to their results and receive feedback from their colleagues, many of them are still unaware of its usefulness.
On rotavirus infectious disease model using piecewise modified $ ABC $ fractional order derivative
Authors: Eiman  , Shah Kamal , Sarwar Muhammad , Abdeljawad Thabet
Published: February 2024

The goal of this manuscript is to use a mathematical model with four compartments to examine the positive effects of rotavirus vaccinations. Susceptible, vaccinated, infected, and recovered (SVIR) classes are included in the suggested model. Some qualitative conclusions are established for the complicated pediatric disease epidemic model of rotavirus, which travels through a population at an inconsistent rate. The model has been fitted with piecewise equations of non-singular kernel-type derivatives in the modified Atangana-Balaneu-Caputo $ (mABC) $ sense. Using the Laplace transform and the notion of non-singular-type derivatives, we prove several basic conclusions regarding the solution's feasibility and positivity. We have used the matrix approach to compute the reproductive number further. Also, the sensitivity of the model has been computed. Additionally, we have used an efficient numerical approach to simulate the model by using some numerical values for the nomenclature of the model. Additionally, using the numerical approach, various graphical illustrations are given.
Effect of governance on investment: Evidence from Sub-Sahara Africa
Authors: Abdulai Mohammed Gbanja , Ustarz Yazidu , Boakye Daniel Chris
Published: February 2024

In this study, we investigated the impact of institutional quality on private and public investments in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) using a sample of forty-one (41) countries between 2002–2021 using a system GMM. Using seven proxies of institutional variables, the results showed that all the institutional proxies had a positive and significant effect on private investment and a negative effect on public investment. We argued that higher institutional quality reduced the costs of doing business, increased investor confidence in the economy, and that property rights enforcement and the legal system increased the attractiveness of private investment in the region. Conversely, for public investment, we argued that better institutional quality exposed the inefficiency of the sector as they were mostly used for rent-seeking and perpetrate corruption, and as such reduced public investment. The results were also robust to different measures of institutions and governance indicators. We recommended that SSA governments improve project oversight and accountability, reduce corruption, promote transparency and citizen participation, strengthen anti-corruption measures, and invest in infrastructure through public-private partnerships in order to improve efficiency in the public sector. Also, governments must ensure lower lending rates, improve the efficiency of credit markets, and ensure better institutional indicators in order to increase private investment.
AN AGENT-BASED COMPUTATIONAL MODEL ON HOUSEHOLD ELECTRICITY CONSUMPTION IN INDIAN CITIES
Authors: Vijayan Manas , Patil Akshay , Kapse Vijay
Published: February 2024

Traditional methods of planning and managing cities often adopt a simplified linear approach to understanding their composition and functioning. These approaches have led to the creation of many undesirable and non-functional cities. However, over the last few decades, there has been a radical shift in the approach to investigating cities through the adoption of complexity science and its various concepts. Unfortunately, this paradigm shift has been limited to only a handful of developed Western nations. This study proposes an extendable agent-based computational model for assessing household electricity consumption patterns in cities of developing nations. The model is demonstrated using an urban precinct in India as a representative case. It simulates the monthly electricity consumption of an urban precinct in Nagpur by combining the significant factors impacting household electricity consumption in developing nations, with the household's electricity consumption process in relation to outdoor weather conditions, and the heterogeneity in occupants’ behavior. The predictive validation of the model using the “BehaviorSpace” tool yielded promising results, with the model consistently and accurately predicting the growth of variables and household electricity consumption patterns. The model also successfully generated multiple future scenarios, showcasing its capacity to forecast the future implications of policy interventions. The simulation results indicated that household electricity consumption in Indian cities is driven by population growth and income levels. Additionally, it suggests that widely practiced rooftop solar panel installation policies may not be a viable approach to achieving sustainability in this sector. This study finds that the “emergent urbanism” approach has the potential to revitalize the urban energy planning process through an effective framework for comprehensively understanding the phenomena and addressing its various complexities.
INVESTIGATING LEED-ND KEY CRITERIA FOR EFFECTIVE SUSTAINABILITY EVALUATION
Authors: Goodarzi Mohsen , Berghorn George
Published: February 2024

This study investigated the relationship between key neighborhood sustainability criteria (walkability, bikeability, transportation, and residential density) and the overall sustainability score of projects certified under the Leadership for Energy and Environmental Design for Neighborhood Development (LEED-ND) program. The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the LEED-ND system in establishing criteria for sustainability evaluation. Data for all LEED-ND: Built Projects were gathered from “USGBC.com“ and “walkscore.com.” Initial assessments of the relationships between each key factor and the LEED score of the projects were conducted using multiple linear regression analysis. The results indicated a negative relationship between walkability and the level of sustainability, despite its considerable weight in the LEED-ND system. In contrast, density, transportation, and bikeability demonstrated associations with the LEED scores of the projects. The evaluation of the moderation effect of key climate factors on these relationships indicated that only the number of precipitation days influences the relationship between walkability and the LEED score. The findings of this study indicate the necessity to reconsider walkability criteria in the LEED-ND system.
Corte, red viaria y sistema de comunicaciones en la España de Carlos V (1500-1556)
Authors: García David Alonso
Published: February 2024

La irrupción de Madrid como centro político de la Monarquía Hispánica constituyó un proceso complejo que, si bien se consolida en tiempos de Felipe II, mostraba ya muestras evidentes de formalización en las décadas anteriores a este reinado. Uno de los motivos que explican la elección de Madrid como centro político se relaciona con su buena ubicación en la red de caminos que atravesaban la península ibérica, hecho que aseguraba la comunicación de la ciudad con numerosos enclaves en España y Europa. El presente estudio analiza la posición de Madrid en la red de caminos y el papel jugado por la ciudad en la formación de un sistema de comunicaciones postales a nivel europeo, donde el concurso de la familia Tassis / Taxis resultó absolutamente clave. En el trabajo se analizan los cambios culturales e institucionales que se produjeron en este ámbito, así como su influencia en la evolución de la futura capital. Para confeccionar el presente trabajo se ha utilizado información recogida en fuentes inéditas localizadas en el Archivo General de Simancas.
La Ciudad de México: un continuo ante las Composiciones, la Unión de Armas y la Armada de Barlovento en tiempos de la casa de Austria
Authors: Torales Pacheco María Cristina
Published: February 2024

La Unión de Armas, se ha apreciado como iniciativa de la concepción imperialista del conde-duque de Olivares. Este artículo propone comprenderla como parte de un proceso continuo impulsado por los reyes de la casa de Austria que ostentaron la corona española en los siglos xvi y xvii. La pérdida de la Armada Invencible obligó a Felipe II a dictar medidas fiscales que le aportaran recursos para recuperar la fortaleza marítima y asegurar los reinos bajo su égida. Entre éstas, las composiciones de extranjeros y de tierras le aportaron ingresos a partir de 1595. La Unión de Armas sancionada por Felipe IV, fue recibida en 1628 por el cabildo de la Ciudad de México, representante de las ciudades del reino, como una petición más de apoyo económico. No obstante que la Ciudad expresó su resistencia, aprobó el incremento del 2% al impuesto de las alcabalas. Las aportaciones sustanciales de los novohispanos a favor de la armada, fueron por el concepto de la composición de tierras y arribaron a las arcas reales cuando Olivares ya había fallecido.
Partielle Autonomie und „Stellvertretende Repräsentation“ oder: Gibt es ein „habsburgisches“ Stadtbild?
Authors: Engelberg Meinrad v.
Published: February 2024

Der Beitrag fragt, wie man „Habsburgerstädte“ definieren soll und woran man sie ggf. erkennen kann: Haben sie ein typisches, gemeinsames Erscheinungsbild, eine charakteristische Physiognomie? Hierbei ist zunächst zwischen der historischen Realität der früheren Zugehörigkeit zu den Territorien der Habsburger und der retrospektiven Projektion einer solchen Identität zu unterscheiden: Das heute badische Freiburg im Breisgau war bis 1806 habsburgisch, das österreichische Salzburg nicht. Das ist aber nahezu vergessen und spielt für das lokale Selbstverständnis keine Rolle mehr. Beim Vergleich der ehemals habsburgischen, teilautonomen Landeshauptstädte Linz und Prag fällt auf, dass deren Stadtbild nicht wie im königlichen Frankreich von einer vereinheitlichenden, durch zentrale Instanzen normierten Ästhetik geprägt wurde, sondern Ausdruck einer lokalen Konkurrenz von Adel, Ständen und Klerus war. Dieses System der „stellvertretenden Repräsentation“, typisch für das 17. und frühe 18. Jh., wurde ab 1750 durch ein neues Staatsverständnis in Österreich abgelöst, das nun stärker an Frankreich orientierte, normierende und uniformierende Tendenzen aufwies, wie sich z.B. bei der Umgestaltung der Prager Burg durch den Wiener Hofarchitekten Nikolaus Pacassi zeigen lässt.
El imperio ausente: la frustrada fundación de Talca (Chile) en una zona fronteriza de la monarquía habsburga a fines del siglo xvii
Authors: Hausser Christian , Espinoza Gonzalo Olmedo
Published: February 2024

El artículo trata del primer intento de fundar la ciudad de Talca en la periferia extrema del imperio hispano a finales del siglo diecisiete. Se estudia la política del gobernador Tomás Marin de Poveda en su interacción con las condiciones demográficas y económicas en Chile central en cuanto zona fronteriza. Apuntando a los problemas de integrar la región en la esfera de influencia Habsburgo por medio de ciudades, la primera fundación frustrada, junto con la exitosa segunda fundación en el marco del reformismo borbónico medio siglo después, deja patente las limitaciones del estado Habsburgo de consolidar y desarrollar su presencia en las Américas.
Kooperation und Verwirklichung von Einzelinteressen in der Politik der siebenbürgisch-sächsischen Städte am Anfang der Habsburgerherrschaft
Authors: Szirtes Zsófia
Published: February 2024

Im Zentrum der Untersuchung stehen die siebenbürgisch-sächsischen Städte, die erst an der Wende zum 18. Jahrhundert unter die Herrschaft der Habsburgerdynastie gerieten. Das Netzwerk dieser Städte basierte auf der aus dem Mittelalter tradierten Selbstverwaltung der Sächsischen Nationsuniversität. Ihre Versammlungen wie die Teilnahme auf den Landtagen waren maßgebend für die gemeinsame Politik und das Kommunikationssystem dieser Städte. In der Studie wird auf die innere Dynamik dieses Systems fokussiert, wobei die Durchsetzung von Einzelinteressen manchmal zu inneren Konflikten führte. Obwohl die traditionelle Führungsrolle Hermannstadts in dieser Übergangsphase gefährdet war, konnte sie erhalten bleiben, wobei der Ausbau eines Kommunikationssystems vor allem im neuen Machtzentrum Wien eine maßgebende Rolle spielte.
Fürsorgeaktionen in Bosnien und Herzegowina während des Ersten Weltkrieges
Authors: Radanović Sanja
Published: February 2024

Der Beitrag analysiert die Zeitung Bosnische Post, die in Bosnien-Herzegowina zwischen 1884 und 1918 in deutscher Sprache herauskam. Das politische Nachrichtenblatt sollte die Leserschaft in Österreich-Ungarn mit den Neuigkeiten und Perspektiven aus Bosnien­Herzegowina vertraut machen. Während des Ersten Weltkrieges berichtete das Blatt ausführlich über humanitäre Maßnahmen innerhalb Bosnien­Herzegowinas, nicht zuletzt mit der Absicht, Hilfsgelder zu akquirieren und karitative Veranstaltungen zu fördern, die den vom Krieg besonders betroffenen Opfergruppen zugute kommen sollten, nämlich den Waisen, den Witwen und den verwundeten Soldaten. Auf diese Weise kam die Bosnische Post ihrer Informationspflicht nach und ließ in der verwendeten Sprache eine positive Einstellung und Sympathie für diese Maßnahmen erkennen. Laut der Bosnischen Post nahmen sich die Behörden der Sorgen der Bevölkerung aktiv an. Gleichzeitig sollten auch Engagement und Hilfsbereitschaft bei den Lesern hervorgerufen werden. Mit diesen motivierenden Stellungnahmen übernahm die Presse eine wichtige gesellschaftliche Rolle, indem sie informierte und die Öffentlichkeit in eine dem Regime genehme Richtung lenkte.
A Novel Processing Route in the Mechano-Synthesis of Austenitic 58Fe25Ni17Cr Oxide Dispersion Strengthened Cast Alloy through Y2O3 Pre-Linking
Authors: Farihin Parikin , Suharno Bambang , Dani Mohammad , Andryansyah Andryansyah , Prastowo Dian Adi , Insani Andon , Prayitno Djoko Hadi
Published: February 2024

A powder metallurgical process has been applied to synthesize the FeNiCr+Y2O3 oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) alloys. The composition of the reinforcing Y2O3 added into matrix was varied from zero to 2.0 percent weight. Raw powders were carefully weighed with a four-digit balance. Y2O3 powder was pre-linked into Fe powder as the dominant element in the matrix by manually ground for half an hour. Ni and Cr powders were then mixed evenly for the next a half hour to obtain FeNiCr+Y2O3 precursor. Avoiding agglomeration and grain coarsening, the precursor was uniformly homogenized by milling for 20 hours. The precursors were then compressed at an isostatic pressure of 100 kN to 12 grams of pellets each. To prevent sample erosion during smelting with an electric arc furnace (EAF), crystal growing mechanism by conventional sintering was performed at 900 °C for 2 hours. This strengthens the bonds between precursors in forming ODS alloys. The samples were then melt-casted in the arc by 4 times flips. As a result, the neutron diffraction analysis and SEM-EDS strongly reveal the austenitic crystal structure and Y2O3 oxide successfully dispersed in the cast-alloy respectively. The microstructures with Y2O3 oxide spread uniformly overall the cast-alloy surfaces.
Development of 3D Printing Filaments from Recycled PLA Reinforced with Nanoclay
Authors: Basilia Blessie A. , Concepcion Julius N. , Prila John Jerald
Published: February 2024

This study focused on the development of 3D printing filaments suitable for fused deposition modeling (FDM) by recycling expired polylactic acid (PLA) filaments. The 3D printing filaments were processed into pellets by incorporating montmorillonite (MMT) nanoclay into the expired PLA filaments through twin-screw extrusion with varying concentrations of 1%, 3%, and 5 wt.%. These composite pellets were reprocessed to filaments through a filament extruder with a diameter of 1.75 mm. These filaments underwent different characterization techniques to test its mechanical and thermal properties. The thermal properties showed increasing values in the glass transition temperature, crystallization temperature, and melting temperature with a decrease in the specific heat upon incorporating increasing amount of MMT nanoclay. Furthermore, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed a positive impact with better thermal stability when the MMT content was incorporated. In terms of mechanical properties, the study showed that the addition of 1 wt% MMT nanoclay, provided an increase in both the tensile strength and elastic modulus comparable to the virgin 3D printing PLA filament.
Predicting the Tensile Strength of 4D Printed PLA/EPO/Lignin Biocomposites Using Machine Learning
Authors: Kamarulzaman Amjad Fakhri , Haris Nursyam Dzuha , Anuar Hazleen , Toha Siti Fauziah , Alli Yakubu Adekunle , Manshor Mohd Romainor
Published: February 2024

The allure of 4D printing and machine learning (ML) for various applications is unquestionable, and researchers are striving hard to improve their performance. In this work, machine learning has been applied to predict the tensile strength of the 4D printed materials. The study investigated the reinforcement of polylactic acid (PLA) filament with lignin from oil palm empty fruit bunches (OPEFB) in the presence of epoxidized palm oil (EPO) as 4D printable filament. The alkaline extraction method was carried out used sodium hydroxide (NaOH), followed by precipitation with mineral acids utilizing one-factor-at-a-time (OFAT). Thereafter, the tensile strength of the 4D printed material was evaluated by tensile testing machine followed by machine learning prediction in which convolutional neural network (CNN) was adopted. The morphology of the 4D printed materials was determined by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The SEM micrograph of the tensile test of biocomposites revealed layer-by-layer formation of the filaments on the printed unfilled PLA biocomposite indicating lower inter-filament bonding. In the first trial, the actual result of the experiment was evaluated to be 24.44 MPa while the CNN prediction was 25.53 MPa. In the second attempt, the actual result of the experiment was 31.61 MPa whereas the prediction from CNN was 27.55 MPa. The coefficient of determination value obtained from CNN prediction is 0.12662. The current study indicates that machine learning is an important tool to optimize and/or predict the properties of 4D printing materials.
A Study on Optimizing the Parameters of the Heat Treatment Process on Rotary Friction Welding of Aluminum Alloy A6061
Authors: Nam Phan Bao Hoai , Trung Pham Quang , Khanh Bui Duy
Published: February 2024

Rotary friction welding (RFW) is one of the most essential creations of modern technologies because it satisfies and compensates for the shortcomings of traditional welding methods. This paper presents a study on the impact of the annealing solution process on the joints of the rotary friction welding process in Al 6061 material and with a selection of the best parameter for the procedure. The quality of the weld-joints was evaluated by a series of experiments of measuring hardness, tensile strength tests and observing the micro-structures of the specimens to achieve conclusive evidence. The aim of these experiments is to carefully and precisely examine the impact of the heat treatment process on the welded joints’ physical properties and microstructure properties. The results show that the heat treatment does enhance the mechanical properties of the material, but it is essential to conduct experiments to find the optimized parameters; or else, the properties will decrease largely.
Effect of Nano-Alumina (Al2O3) Loading on the Thermo-Mechanical Properties of Poly(Lactic Acid) for Fused Deposition Modeling 3D Printing Applications
Authors: Tolentino Marvin S. , Basilia Blessie A. , de Yro Persia Ada N.
Published: February 2024

This research focused on the development of filament composite materials for fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing applications. The main objective of this study was to fabricate and characterize poly (lactic acid) (PLA) filaments with varying amounts of alumina (Al2O3) nanopowder (0, 2.5, 5.0, and 10.0 wt.%). The resulting PLA/Al2O3 filament blends were produced using hot-melt extrusion. The filament blends were subjected to different characterization techniques and mechanical testing. The results indicate that the thermal stability of the filaments increased with increasing filler content. Furthermore, PLA with 5.0 wt.% nanoAl2O3 exhibited 55.84%, 66.14%, and 45.84% improvement in tensile strength, elastic modulus, and toughness, respectively.
XXIX Italian Melanoma Intergroup National Congress | 29 September - 1 October 2023, Naples (Italy)
Authors: (IMI) Italian Melanoma Intergroup
Published: February 2024

Abstracts from the Italian Melanoma Intergroup (IMI) XXIX National Congress
The Feulgen reaction at the electron microscopy level
Authors: Biggiogera Marco
Published: February 2024

The Feulgen reaction has been the first specific method for detecting DNA available at light microscopy since 1924. However, a similar specific method was proposed for electron microscopy only 50 years later. Here, we discuss the problems encountered in finding the electrondense reagent capable of taking advantage of the extremely high resolution offered by electron microscopy as well as some applications of the method.
The effect of mindful eating on dietary behaviour and fasting blood glucose in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients
Authors: Andriani Rizki , Kamila Aghnia , Putri Roofi Asma , Fadhillah Arif , Helmi Sabrina , Septiani Delia
Published: February 2024

Diet plays a pivotal role in the comprehensive therapy for individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus, contributing significantly to maintaining stable glycemic control. Mindful Eating, as an intervention, focuses on enhancing dietary behavior by directing attention, thoughts, and feelings towards eating activities. This study aimed to investigate the impact of mindful eating on dietary behavior and fasting blood glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Employing a quasi-experimental method with a pretest-posttest control group design, the study included a sample of 63 participants (selected through convenience sampling). Data collection utilized the Personal Diabetes Questionnaire (PDQ) and a glucometer. Statistical analysis involved Wilcoxon, Mann-Whitney, and Independent T-tests. The findings revealed that mindful eating exercises had a significant influence on dietary behavior (p = 0.025) and fasting blood glucose levels (p = 0.033). The practice of mindful eating led to notable improvements in dietary behavior and ensured controlled fasting blood glucose levels by the study's conclusion. Incorporating mindful eating exercises into eating patterns is recommended as a crucial aspect of diabetes management, aiming to enhance dietary behavior and sustain stable glycemic control.