bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ENHANCING THE DEVELOPMENT OF PRACTICAL MUSICIANSHIP AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN BUNGOMA COUNTY: AN ASSESSMENT OF THE STUDENTS’ LEARNING ACTIVITIES
Authors: Shitubi Isaac W. , Wanyama Mellitus N. , Barasa Peter L.
Published: February 2023

Many scholars of music such as Kodaly, Dalcroze and Campbell have argued for the need of developing practical musicianship among learners in Music Education. One of the purposes of Music Education is the creation of an environment in which the human potential is nurtured to bring forth an understanding of a variety of musical experiences. Music is a phenomenon that is experienced by nurturing the intrinsic interest and motivation of a leaner. This paper is therefore based on a study that was conducted to examine the development of practical musicianship among students of music in secondary schools. The main objective of the paper is to determine the various learning activities and strategies that students engage in to enhance practicalmusicianship. Adopting a descriptive survey design, secondary schools in Bungoma County that offer music as a subject formed the area of study. The respondents included 19 teachers and 177 students of music from 15 purposively sampled secondary schools. Data was collected using personal interviews, observation schedule, document analysis and a questionnaire. The collected data was then analyzed descriptively, and its findings presented in bar charts and tables. The study established that students engaged in dancing, singing and playing musical instruments as a way of enhancing their practical musicianship skills. Based on these findings, the study recommends that the balance between practical and theoretical components of the curriculum should be addressed. Provision of opportunities for students to talk about their musical interests, likes and dislikes on a regular basis in order to better facilitate meaningful musical instruction should be encouraged. Stronger marketing of musical activities might ensure that learners are fully aware of the music opportunities in the schools. Provision of new activities, such as jazz and popular bands, jazz choirs, folk groups and other kinds of ensembles might generate wider enthusiasm from the learners alongside traditional orchestra and choir groups.
THE IMZAD AND TUAREG MUSIC: GENDER DEBATES VERSUS BELIEFS, VALUES AND PROMOTIONS
Authors: Ozah Marie Agatha , Esemudje Andrew Akpocha
Published: February 2023

This paper discusses the Tuareg people of the Central Sahara, outlining salient issues relating to the imzad (a Targai musical instrument) and gender. It examines the various ways in which gender and gendered meanings are derived in musical instruments. Drawing upon Veronica Doubleday’s theory on gendered meanings constructed within relationships between humans and musical instruments, the paper examines the dual instrumental monopolies of the Targai (Tuareg women musicians) and the Targui (Tuareg men musicians) living in the region of Mali, Niger and Algeria. It argues that gendered monopolies and dominance in music and musical instruments is not a necessary debate; beliefs, value systems and hereditary among other factors, may necessitate the observed male-female monopolies in music performances (voice or instrument). Our cultural beliefs, values and safeguarding practices are of more importance when rightly channelled by our indigenous music, they can attract investors and promotions on the international scale. The paper contributes to the vast ethnomusicological literature on music and gender.
EFFECTS OF CAPITALISM AND MASS CULTURE ON THE DIMINUTION OF AFRICAN MUSIC PRACTICE AMONG THE KENYAN YOUTH
Authors: Wanderi Jessee
Published: February 2023

After independence, African countries, Kenya included, have since adopted a capitalistic lifestyle which s gradually eroding the African identity of communalism. Though capitalism has some considerable positives, its adoption as a sole replacement of the otherwise pre-colonial communal culture in Africa has brought along a mass culture whose negative effects continue to disintegrate and threaten cohesiveness and unity, the hallmarks of African society. The education system continues to play a big role in the promotion of capitalistic ideals while discreetly disavowing most African cultural practices concomitant with African music practice. This paper seeks to analyze the negative effects of capitalism and mass culture on the African youths. It alsohighlights the attributes of African music practice and the place of education in promoting and restoring abandoned cultural value systems. The method that has been adopted for this study is a mixed method approach. This study espouses that African music practice can be used as a tool for promoting and restoring cultural values through the school and the society. It is a call for introspection by elite Africans regarding their identity and value systems.
USOMAJI-HAKIKI: MKAKATI WA UELEKEZAJI WA MBINU ZA UANDISHI KATIKA RIWAYA
Authors: Maitaria Joseph Nyehita
Published: February 2023

Usomaji-hakiki ni mbinu muhimu kwa watunzi-watarajiwa, wanagenzi na watunzi watajika katika ulingo wa utunzi wa riwaya ya Kiswahili. Usomaji huu unaweza kumsaidia mwenye aria ya kutunga na kuwasilisha miswada yao kwa nia ya kuchapishwa.  Aidha, usomaji huu unahitaji mkakati wa kujitolea kwa hiari. Ingawa kuna aina mbalmbali za usomaji wa riwaya kuna baadhi ambao ni wa kijumla mno na wenye viwingu vya matatizo. Kwa maana hii, hauwezi kumfunulia kumsaidia msomaji mwenye azma ya kujifunza au kuimarisha zaidi mbinu na taratibu za utunzi wa riwaya kusudiwa. Usomaji-hakiki wa riwaya za Kiswahili unaweza kusaidia katika kuwaelekeza wanagenzi na hata vigogowanaweza kujifunza na kunoa kunga zao za uwasilishaji wa riwaya. Makala hii inajaribu kudokeza namna usomaji-hakiki unavyoweza usomaji wa dhati kwa malengo ya kujenga ari ya kutunga, Kuwasilisha na hatimaye uchapishaji wa miswada ya riwaya ya Kiswahili. Isitoshe, Makala hii itapendekezwa namna usomaji-hakiki unaweza kama mbinu ya usomaji wa tanzu nyingine kifasihi kama hadithi fupi, tamthila na ushairi wa Kiswahili.
An account of ambiguity as a feature evident in Ekegusii homograph sets
Authors: Maobe Alloys
Published: February 2023

The paper is based on the premise that any set of homographs in Ekegusii can be ambiguous if their contexts are merely considered during an interlocution. In this regard, limited adherence to the variations in meaning and pronunciation in different sets of homographs in Ekegusii can lead to communication breakdown. In a speech, for instance, a speaker can have limited knowledge or deliberately omit supra-segmental features that aid in comprehending the variations that exist between different sets of homographs. Therefore, the investigation aims at determining the extent to which ambiguity can be accounted for in Ekegusii homograph sets. The paper utilizes the Generative Lexicon Theory by Pustejovsky (1995). A descriptive research design was adopted. Data collection involved the use of a focus group discussion where six respondents drawn from Bogiakumu location in Kisii County were used as participants. Purposive sampling was used to identify the participants based on their proficiency and how they articulated Ekegusii expressions by making clear and consistent tonal distinctions. A combined data elicitation method from Ekegusii native speakers and the researcher’s native speaker intuition was used to collect homograph sets for analysis. It is hoped that the investigation will aid in eliminating any prejudices that might render incomprehensibility due to the inability to accurately pronounce or write sets of homographs in the language.
SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHICS AND TYPES OF POLYDRUGS USED BY PATIENTS UNDERGOING METHADONE-ASSISTED THERAPY
Authors: Kiiru Rose N. , Waithima Charity W. , Mwangi Peterson K.
Published: February 2023

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime [UNODC] in 2018 reported that Polydrug are commonly used for both recreation and regular drug use with majority of users being young adults. On the other hand, Center for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC] recommends Methadone-Assisted Therapy [MAT] as a low risk and effective therapy to help persons suffering from polydruguse addiction with the intent to address withdrawal, craving, improve client, good grooming, appetite, and sleep patterns. This paper identifies some of the types of polydrug used by patients undergoing MAT with focus on the socio-demographic profiles of these patients.The study entailed employed use of quasi-experimental research design and mixed method approach that incorporated both quantitative and qualitative data in its findings. The study population consisted of 2121 MAT patients from which a sample of 120 respondents was obtained through random sampling technique. An assessment to determine the types of polydrugused and the patients’ socio-demographic features was done using MAT patients’ clinical records and Timeline Follow back. The findings indicate that Marijuana (90%; n=54) was the most popular used drug followed by Opioids (80%; n=48), Heroin (65%; n=39), Amphetamine-type stimulants (50%; n=30) and benzodiazepines (50%; n=30. MAT patients through a self-report indicated that the combinations of polydrugmostly used daily comprised; two or thrice or more, in both the treatment and control Benzodiazepines+ Heroin+ Cannabis /Marijuana+ Tobacco and Benzodiazepines+ Heroin+ Cannabis/ Marijuana. The mode of administration for heroin was injection, smoking and snorting; for Benzodiazepines was swallowing and smoking; while cannabis/Marijuana was smoked with tobacco through smoking, snorting, and sublingually. In conclusion, Most of the respondents 40% (n = 48) dropped out in primary, 25.83% (n = 31) dropped out in secondary. 35.29% (n=42) have never been married and 32.77% (n=39) were separated. The most used combination of polydrug was benzodiazepines, heroin, cannabis/ marijuana, tobacco and benzodiazepines, heroin and cannabis /marijuana.
Synergistic Antifungal Analysis of Carica papaya Leaf and Solanum melongena Peel Ethanolic Extracts Against Candida albicans
Authors: Kiprop J. Dorcas , Walekhwa Michael , Wambugu Esbon N , Otieno Filex
Published: February 2023

Infectious diseases are responsible for most mortalities and morbidities globally. They are estimated to cause 17 million deaths annually. Candida albicans is a microflora found in mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract and vagina. Though a commensal organism, it can cause either oropharyngeal or vaginal candidiasis in immunocompromised states. It thus, is a common opportunistic infection especially in patients living with HIV/AIDS. Management of candidiasis requires use of antifungal agents but some are costly or drug-resistant. Therefore, there is need for exploration of novel and affordable treatment modalities. Medicinal plants offer alternative therapeutic modalities. Against this backdrop, we sought to evaluate synergistic antifungal activity of ethanolic extract of Carica papaya leaves and Solanum melongena fruit peel against Candida albicans. Ethical approval was sought from School of pharmacy, Kabarak University Research Ethics Committee (KUREC) and National commission for science, technology, and innovation (NACOSTI).  Experimental research design was employed. Green leaves of Carica papaya were obtained from the school’s herbarium while the eggplant fruit was purchased from Nakuru town market. The sample plants were dried and powdered. Phytochemical analysis was carried out and antifungal activity evaluated via disk diffusion method. Phytochemical studies showed presence of tannins, alkaloids and flavonoids in both plants. Anthraquinone glycosides were absent in both samples. Carica papaya and Solanum melongena ethanolic extracts respectively showed activity against Candida albicans at different concentrations with zones of inhibition of 8.34mm and 7.98mm, respectively, at the highest concentrations. S. melongena extracts showed a lower zone of inhibition against Candida albicans compared to C. papaya extracts. Combined ethanolic extracts of   Solanum melongena and Carica papaya showed higher activity at all concentrations than individual extracts, implying synergism between the two plant extracts. The difference in zones of inhibition was significant at different concentrations(P<0.05).
Conclusion: The study findings have demonstrated that Carica papaya and Solanum melongena extracts have remarkable antifungal activity against Candida albicans. This makes them potential efficacious antifungal agents against Candida albicans.
The Challenges of Application of African Traditional Dance for Contemporary Educational Relevance
Authors: Shitandi Wilson , Wanyama Mellitus Nyongesa
Published: February 2023

Students pursuing music degree courses in Kenyan public universities undergo dance instructions as part of their cognitive processes in learning traditional African music. The purpose of the dance courses is to enable students to practice, appreciate, preserve through performance and understand dance as a cultural identity in a modern educational context. Dances hitherto performed in specific cultural contexts are reconceptualised and situated into the classroom for instructional purposes thus raising fundamental questions regarding the effect/affect of reinterpretation processes that are inevitable. Through analytical and comparative procedures, this paper seeks to establish how various aspects, content, methodologies and performance practice of traditional African dances commonly taught at Kenyatta university are unearthed, interpreted, re-evaluated and integrated into new academic thinking yet remaining valuable and important source of cultural identity.
CHALLENGES IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF ONLINE LEARNING IN HIGHER EDUCATION IN KENYA
Authors: Mogeni Collins , Zigama Jean Claude
Published: February 2023

The covid 19 pandemic caused a disruption in the education system in Kenya and the whole world, instutions had to get a way of continuing with the learning process without involving the learners physically, online learning which had not been explored in the previous years was now the only option remaining for the universities in Kenya and around the world. The paper analyzes how online learning was implemented and what were the challenges and achievements of the online learning. And the way in which students adapted to the new method of instruction. Universities adopted the online learning using online learning platforms such as zoom meeting, Microsoft teams, WhatsApp groups and other platforms which enabled the online interactions between the learners and the teachers, the online learning to a large extent was successful as students were able to attend classes, make presentations and sit exams online leading to a smooth process of learning. Students and teachers experienced various challenges in using the online platforms as this was a very new idea, some students and learners lacked a stable network to carry out the online classes, this made the students and teachers to at times miss classes. Lack of a reliable source of electricity also affected the online classes as the electricity would go off without prior notice, truance on the part of student where some skipped classes out of their own wish. The challenges not withstanding online learning has achieved more in the learning process as the interaction between the teacher and learner has been improved through the use of live classes and video conferencing, this has led to universities adopting full online courses especially those that do not require practical training.  However, improvements are to be introduced in the online learning such as providing recorded lessons for every lesson attended. Virtual libraries to be improved to include all materials needed for the course being studied. It has therefore been proven that online learning is a as equally effective as the face-to-face learning.
ADEQUACY OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY RESOURCES FOR TEACHING MATHEMATICS IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN NAKURU EAST SUB-COUNTY, KENYA
Authors: Kiprono Winnie Milka , Kobiah Lydia K
Published: February 2023

The study assessed the adequacy of Computer Technology resources for teaching Mathematics in secondary schools in Nakuru Town sub-counties, Kenya. Research done in developed countries found that Computer Technology resources for teaching were very few in teaching Mathematics. Its use help students learn by giving abstract ideas a more perceptible form and is therefore significant for Mathematics subject which is poorly performed. Existing literature shows that Computer technology resources can enhance instruction if basic conditions, including the provision of computer resources, are met. The study aimed to assess the adequacy of computer technology resources for teaching mathematics. The study's objective was to assess the adequacy of Computer Technology resources for teaching mathematics. The design of the study included both quantitative and qualitative methods. The study population was 60 Mathematics teachers, 25 principals, and 1 County Quality Assurance and Standard Officer (CQASO).The sample size for the study comprised 10 Mathematics teachers, 10 Principals, and one CQASO. Questionnaires, Computer Technology Lesson Observational Tool (CTLOT), and Interview schedules were the main research instruments. The reliability of the questionnaire was established through the test-retest method and then accepted at Pearson value of 0.7 and above at alpha of 0.05 and was determined by piloting them in 2 schools forming part of the population. The reliability coefficient for (CTLOT) is 0.83.  The findings showed that computer technology resources for teaching  mathematics are inadequate. The study recommends the adequate provision of computer technology resources for teaching mathematics.
Mini-clinical evaluation exercise (mini-CEX) as a learning and assessment tool: Residents’ and facultys’ perceptions.
Authors:   Professor & HOD, Department. of Paediatrics , Sri Devaraj Urs Medical College., V R Sudha Reddy , Prasad KNV , J Krishnappa
Published: February 2023

Background: The desired outcome of any post graduate training is to produce competent special-ists. Mini-clinical evaluation exercise (mini-CEX) is a tool in which a variety of clinical skills such as data gathering, physical examination, clinical judgment, counseling, organization/efficiency, and overall compe-tence can be assessed in real patient situations. The present study was undertaken to find out the percep-tions of pediatric residents and faculty regarding the use of mini-CEX as a learning and formative assess-ment tool. Methods: Ten paediatric post graduate residents underwent three mini-CEX encounters each in the outpatient department. Three faculty members assessed the performance of students by direct observa-tion, rated their performances and offered a feedback by employing the standard mini-CEX format. Percep-tions regarding the use of mini-CEX as a learning and assessment tool were obtained by using separate ques-tionnaires for the residents and faculty. Results: All the participants (100%) agreed that mini-CEX was a useful learning and assessment tool. Eighty percent of the residents perceived that they missed the interac-tion with the assessor. Majority (80%) of the residents felt that the depth of their knowledge was not as-sessed during the encounter while a third of the faculty was also of the same opinion. There was a mixed reaction regarding time allotment for the exercise. All the participants suggested that mini-CEX should be incorporated in their training as a learning and assessment tool. Conclusions: Mini-CEX was perceived as a useful assessment and learning tool by the postgraduate residents and faculty of the Department of Pediat-rics. Key words: Mini-CEX, WPBA, Residents, Faculty, Perceptions.
Analisis Faktor Pendukung dan Penghambat dalam Pengelolaan Dana Infaq Produktif Berbasis Kewirausahaan Pesantren Studi Kasus Pondok Pesantren Riyadlul Jannah Pacet
Authors: Mashadi Ali Imron
Published: February 2023

Pengelolaan wakaf uang dalam upaya pemberdayaan ekonomi pondok pesantren Riyadlul Jannah berjalan dengan baiknya fungsi kepemimpinan yang menggunakan prinsip-prinsip keislaman. Hal tersebut menunjukan bahwa ajaran islam telah mengajarkan dengan baik kriteria pemimpin yang ideal. Dalam artikel ini, dianalisis faktor pendukung dan penghambat implementasi pengelolaan dana infaq produktif berbasis kewirausahaan dalam upaya penguatan ekonomi pesantren studi pada Pondok Pesantren Riyadlul Jannah Pacet Mojokerto Jawa Timur.
SOLVENT EXTRACTION OF ZINC FROM ACIDIC LEACH SOLUTIONS
Authors:   University of Mining and Geology “St. Ivan Rilski”, Angelov Todor , Valchanova Ivanka ,   University of Mining and Geology “St. Ivan Rilski”
Published: February 2023

An initial test work was carried out to demonstrate that solution produced by autoclave acid leaching of Electric Arc Furnace Dust (EAFD) from the steel production could be processed through solvent extraction (SX) to recover zinc. Solvent extraction is a process for purification of the leach solution that extracts mainly zinc from other metallic impurities. To assess zinc extraction different counter-current extraction and strip configurations were tested. Extractant Di-2-ethylhexyl phosphoric acid (D2EHPA) and Shellsol D100 as a diluent were used in this investigation. The main operational parameters and the results obtained in the test work are presented in this paper. Well over 90% of the zinc was extracted from the pregnant leach solution using multi-stage SX circuit configuration and pH adjustment. Details of circuit configurations, phase disengagement times and crud generation are also shown.
Barriers to access prehospital care in Jimma City, Oromiya Region of Ethiopia
Authors: Amme Shemsedin , Shemsi Sheka , Olani Adugna , Koshe Tura , Ahmed Abdulwahid , Ahmed Ismael , Takale Tolasa , Ahmed Gutema , Beshir Muktar , Jarso Habtamu , Suleman Sultan , Melkamu Gemechis , Yimam Ebrahim , Legese Shimelis , Lippi Matthew , Mould-Millman Nee-Kofi
Published: February 2023

Background: African nations experience a significant proportion of the global burden of death and disability. The provision of prehospital emergency care has been shown to partially reduce excess morbidity and mortality. However, access to prehospital care in Africa is still limited. This study sought to identify barriers to access prehospital care in the city of Jimma, Ethiopia.

Methods: This is phenomenological qualitative study conducted in February 2018, among key stakeholders for prehospital care in Jimma. A purposive sample of individuals from the community and local ambulance organizations were selected for interviews. Interviews were conducted in local languages, translated into English, and then coded for consistent themes. 

Results: All respondents felt that prehospital care was difficult to access and therefore infrequently utilized. This was due to a combination of a fragmented and under-resourced system, including lack of single dial number and limited number of ambulances; providers availability and practice; poor road infrastructure; and poor public awareness, misconception and mistrust of the existing service. Respondents suggested that establishment of a formalized system of prehospital care operating on a single dial toll-free number, improved resource allocation, awareness raising and capacity building in the community, improving road infrastructure, and improved emergency medical training would improve access.  

Conclusion: Multiple barriers to accessing prehospital care were identified in Jimma. Establishing a formalized and well-resourced prehospital system in parallel with improving community capacity and knowledge building were suggested solutions to improve access. Hence, interventions to improve prehospital emergency care delivery should ideally target these identified barriers and proposed solutions.
Buku Ajar Fisika Materi Suhu dan Kalor Kelas XI dengan Pendekatan Pembelajaran Terintegrasi Ayat Al- Qur’an dan Al- Hadits
Authors: Fikri Muhammad , Al Mubarokah Nurul Hidayah
Published: February 2023

The problem encountered at MA Nurul Hidaya Assonhaji is that physics is a very difficult subject and students do not like. The teaching materials/ worksheets used from several publishers are usually purchased/ photocopied which in general are not in accordance with the needs of students and teachers in schools so that teachers use textbooks. Therefore, the researchers developed a Physics Textbook for Class XI Materials of Temperature and Heat with an Integrated Generative Learning Approach Al - Qur'an and Hadith verses that are in accordance with the characteristics and needs of students so that students can study independently and prefer physics lessons. This research is a development research. This researcher consisted of 4 stages, namely: defining, designing, developing, data collection instruments used were textbook validation sheets, student response questionnaires. The textbook validation test was assisted by 2 validator lecturers. After the textbook feasibility test, a student response questionnaire was distributed involving 25 students. Filling out the questionnaire using a Liketk scale with a count of 1-4, the data can be analyzed quantitatively in accordance with the criteria of validity and practicality. From the results of the study, it was shown that the Material Physics Textbook for Class XI with an Integrated Generative Learning Approach Al-Qur'an and Hadith verses was quite valid with the validity result obtained was 60%. Then the Physics Textbook for Class XI Materials of Temperature and Heat With an Integrated Generative Learning Approach The verses of the Qur'an and Hadith are quite practical to use after a limited trial of 25 students with an average result of 80%.
Joseph Sievers and Amy-Jill Levine, Eds. The Pharisees
Authors: Smith Eric C.
Published: February 2023

No abstract is available.
R. Alan Culpepper. Matthew: A Commentary (The New Testament Library)
Authors: Kampen John
Published: February 2023

No abstract is available.
“La violencia en el espacio”. Una propuesta de lectura crítica sobre las violencias del pasado reciente en América Latina
Authors: Salamanca Villamizar Carlos
Published: February 2023

Varias décadas de experiencias latinoamericanas en la discusión académica y pública de la Justicia Transicional, sus supuestos básicos, sus dispositivos y sus efectos, han dejado como resultado cierto consenso alrededor de sus limitaciones. Éstas están reflejadas en cuestiones tales como la continuidad de la violencia en determinados países o regiones, la persistente dificultad en desmontar la impunidad, la opacidad de la responsabilidad de los actos de violencia, así como la persistencia de miradas y discursos justificatorios de la violencia estatal. Buena parte de estas limitaciones tiene que ver, entre otras causas y como intentaré demostrar aquí, con una perspectiva restringida de la violencia y con una aproximación jurídica, política y comunicativa que desvincula la memoria, la verdad y la justicia de los contextos espaciales y materiales concretos. A partir de la revisión crítica de “La Violencia en el Espacio”, una experiencia colectiva de trabajo, me propongo demostrar por qué una perspectiva crítica sobre el espacio es fundamental para pensar la violencia del pasado reciente e imaginar otras formas de justicia en América Latina.
Independent Assessment of Public Authority: Problems of Practical Implementation
Authors: Ulyanov Alexander
Published: February 2023

In the Russian Federation, the effectiveness of public power and its institutions has been assessed relatively recently and not at all levels. Currently, the activities of senior officials and executive authorities of the regions of Russian Federation, local self-government bodies, the results and quality of public services, the activities of social organizations are subject to evaluation. However, questions arise about the achievement of the purpose of this activity, about the reflection of the introduced criteria and indicators of the influence of public authorities on the state of public life. From these problematic positions, the article examines the practice of independent evaluation as a form of public control over the activities of public authorities and organizations performing socially significant functions, examines domestic and foreign experience in creating expert analytical centers. As a result of the study, it was concluded that with the existing legal regulation of evaluating the effectiveness of public institutions, an integrated approach is not provided, which leads to a lack of a real assessment of their impact on social development. Independent evaluation is often compensated or replaced by other methods of evaluation, including quasi-evaluation, which, unlike expert evaluation, is reduced to a description of the collected data, and not to an analysis of the causes and consequences of managerial decision-making. The way out of the current situation of "quasi-evaluation" is seen in the formation of a conceptual framework for assessing the effectiveness of public power, which will require further modernization of federal legislation. An independent assessment in the modern constitutional and legal doctrine can and should be considered as a possible and necessary model of lawful behavior based on the interaction and solidarity of the individual, society and the state.
Potential of Ecological Benefits for the Continuous Flow Intersection
Authors: Wu Na , Liu Yating
Published: February 2023

Energy conservation and emission reduction from the transportation sector are of great significance in coping with the global energy and environmental crisis. As the bottleneck of urban road traffic, intersection burdens the urban environment greatly. When the volume of left-turn traffic is large, the continuous flow intersection (CFI) can effectively improve intersection operation efficiency. This paper first put forward the definition and application conditions of CFI. Then its mechanism for energy saving and emission reduction was analysed. CFI transformation was designed taking a typical intersection in Xi’an as an example. Operating efficiency, energy consumption and emissions of the intersection before and after CFI transformation were evaluated using the VISSIM model. The  results show that energy consumption and emissions in the intersection are greatly reduced after CFI transformation. Queue length is reduced by more than 41%. Energy consumption and pollutant emission are reduced by about 8%. Through the simulation analysis, the emission reduction benefits most when the volume of left-turn traffic is 80%–85% of the design capacity, and the ratio of leftturntraffic over through traffic is maintained between 50% and 100%. This study suggests that CFI is suitable for large-scale promotion with careful examination.
The Effects of Seaport-Inland Port Dyads on Container Seaport Hinterland Delimitation
Authors: Gong Xiaoxing , Lan Jieyuan , Li Yongfang , Zhang Lingye
Published: February 2023

The emerging seaport-inland port dyad contributes greatly to the development of seaport hinterlands. However, little research has examined its influence on container hinterland delimitation. This paper used an improved radiation model to study the effects of seaport-inland port dyads on the container seaport hinterland delimitation in the context of a Chinese multi-port system. The radiation of each seaport was estimated to track changes in the seaport superior hinterlands and hinterland ratings and discover the patterns of the effects. The results show that the formation of dyads expands the scope of superior hinterlands and improves the hinterland ratings of seaports. The provinces close to inland ports and far from seaports were significantly affected and the same inland port influenced seaports differently. These results demonstrate that establishing a seaport-inland port dyad is a good way to compete with other seaports for larger market shares. These different effects can serve as a guideline for seaport authorities to choose suitable dyads to achieve their hinterland targets.
Analysis of Container Terminal Handling System Based on Petri Net and ExtendSim
Authors: Du Danfeng , Liu Tiantian , Guo Chun
Published: February 2023

The container terminal handling system plays an important role in marine transportation, and improving its efficiency has become a big challenge. Therefore, this paper proposes an analytical method that combines a Petri net with simulation tools. Firstly, the container terminal handling system is abstracted into a Petri net system according to the internal logic of the handling process. Next, eigenvalues of the correlation matrix are calculated to analyse the effectiveness of the Petri net system. Then, the Petri net system is simulated using the Extend-Sim software. The result suggests that, after optimising, the handling capacity of the berth is clearly improved. Using the Petri net and simulation tools together to analyse the container terminal system is the innovation and the most important aspect of this paper. Because the combination of a Petri net and simulation can not only ensure the reliability of the model but also optimise the container terminal handling system more intuitively.
Autoficción y performance: las escenificaciones autoriales de Gabriela Wiener
Authors: Casas Ana
Published: February 2023

Este artículo explora las diversas estrategias de escenificación de la voz y presencia autoriales en los textos de la escritora peruana Gabriela Wiener quien ensaya distintas formas de autofiguración, nutriéndose de temáticas y formas codificadas de las escrituras del yo para luego ponerlas en cuestión. Con ese fin, me apoyo en las teorías de Erika Fischer-Lichte (2004) sobre la estética de lo performativo en el contexto de la deriva autorreflexiva y autorreferencial del arte posmoderno, así como en la noción de autoría performativa de Sonya Longolius (2016), para quien se hace necesario distinguir el yo autobiográfico del yo-autor cuyo nombre aparece en los libros y cuya identidad está en perpetua evolución. Las obras de Gabriela Wiener que aluden de forma explícita a la función autorial y que serán objeto de estudio son el cómic "Todos vuelven" (Llamada perdida, 2009), el libro de entrevistas "Dicen de mí" (2017), la obra dramática "Qué locura enamorarme yo de ti" (2019) y la novela "Huaco retrato" (2021). Sus estrategias performativas coinciden con las enumeradas por Longolius, ya que pasan por: 1) integrar otras voces en el propio texto; 2) proyectarse como figura de autor en la obra; y 3) difuminar las fronteras entre autobiografía y ficción. Añadiré una cuarta, consistente en repetir las prácticas reguladoras de lo que se entiende por autoría e introducir determinados elementos subversivos que la resignifican (Sayad 2013: 12).
Student timetabling genetic algorithm accounting for student preferences
Authors: Mahlous Ahmed Redha , Mahlous Houssam
Published: February 2023

Universities face a constant challenge when distributing students and allocating them to their required classes, especially for a large mass of students. Generating feasible timetables is a strenuous task that requires plenty of resources, which makes it impractical to take student preferences into consideration during the process. Timetabling and scheduling problems are proven to be NP-hard due to their complex nature and large search spaces. A genetic algorithm (GA) that assigns students to their classes based on their preferences is proposed as a solution to this problem and is implemented in this article. The GA’s performance is enhanced by applying different metaheuristic concepts and by tailoring the genetic operators to the given problem. The quality of the solutions generated is boosted further with the unique repair and improvement functions that were implemented in conjunction with the genetic algorithm. The success of the GA was evaluated by using different datasets of varying complexity and by assessing the quality of the solutions generated. The results obtained were promising and the algorithm guarantees the feasibility of solutions as well as satisfying more than 90% of student preferences even for the most complex problems.
Computing tensor Z-eigenpairs via an alternating direction method
Authors: Zhou Genjiao , Wang Shoushi , Huang Jinhong
Published: February 2023

Tensor eigenproblems have wide applications in blind source separation, magnetic resonance imaging, and molecular conformation. In this study, we explore an alternating direction method for computing the largest or smallest Z-eigenvalue and corresponding eigenvector of an even-order symmetric tensor. The method decomposes a tensor Z-eigenproblem into a series of matrix eigenproblems that can be readily solved using off-the-shelf matrix eigenvalue algorithms. Our numerical results show that, in most cases, the proposed method converges over two times faster and could determine extreme Z-eigenvalues with 20–50% higher probability than a classical power method-based approach.
Age-related change in mammographic breast density of women without history of breast cancer over a 10-year retrospective study
Authors: Ohmaru Aiko , Maeda Kazuhiro , Ono Hiroyuki , Kamimura Seiichiro , Iwasaki Kyoko , Mori Kazuhiro , Kai Michiaki
Published: February 2023

Background

Women with higher breast density are at higher risk of developing breast cancer. Breast density is known to affect sensitivity to mammography and to decrease with age. However, the age change and associated factors involved are still unknown. This study aimed to investigate changes in breast density and the associated factors over a 10-year period.

Materials and Methods

The study included 221 women who had undergone eight or more mammograms for 10 years (2011–2020), were between 25 and 65 years of age, and had no abnormalities as of 2011. Breast density on mammographic images was classified into four categories: fatty, scattered, heterogeneously dense, and extremely dense. Breast density was determined using an image classification program with a Microsoft Lobe’s machine-learning model. The temporal changes in breast density over a 10-year period were classified into three categories: no change, decrease, and increase. An ordinal logistic analysis was performed with the three groups of temporal changes in breast density categories as the objective variable and the four items of breast density at the start, BMI, age, and changes in BMI as explanatory variables.

Results

As of 2011, the mean age of the 221 patients was 47 ± 7.3 years, and breast density category 3 scattered was the most common (67.0%). The 10-year change in breast density was 64.7% unchanged, 25.3% decreased, and 10% increased. BMI was increased by 64.7% of women. Breast density decreased in 76.6% of the category at the start: extremely dense breast density at the start was correlated with body mass index (BMI). The results of the ordinal logistic analysis indicated that contributing factors to breast density classification were higher breast density at the start (odds ratio = 0.044; 95% CI [0.025–0.076]), higher BMI at the start (odds ratio = 0.76; 95% CI [0.70–0.83]), increased BMI (odds ratio = 0.57; 95% CI [0.36–0.92]), and age in the 40s at the start (odds ratio = 0.49; 95% CI [0.24–0.99]). No statistically significant differences were found for medical history.

Conclusion

Breast density decreased in approximately 25% of women over a 10-year period. Women with decreased breast density tended to have higher breast density or higher BMI at the start. This effect was more pronounced among women in their 40s at the start. Women with these conditions may experience changes in breast density over time. The present study would be useful to consider effective screening mammography based on breast density.
The relationship between sleep duration and activities of daily living (ADL) disability in the Chinese oldest-old: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Wang Zhaoping , Ni Xiaolin , Gao Danni , Fang Sihang , Huang Xiuqing , Jiang Mingjun , Zhou Qi , Sun Liang , Zhu Xiaoquan , Su Huabin , Li Rongqiao , Huang Bin , Lv Yuan , Pang Guofang , Hu Caiyou , Yang Ze , Yuan Huiping
Published: February 2023

Objective

To investigate the relationship between sleep duration and activities of daily living (ADL) disability, and to explore the optimal sleep duration among oldest-old Chinese individuals.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, 1,798 participants (73.2% female) were recruited from Dongxing and Shanglin in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China in 2019. The restricted cubic spline function was used to assess the dose-response relationship between sleep duration and ADL disability, and the odds ratios (ORs) of the associations were estimated by logistic regression models.

Results

The overall prevalence of ADL disability was 63% (64% in females and 58% in males). The prevalence was 71% in the Han population (72% in females and 68% in males), 60% in the Zhuang population (62% in females and 54% in males) and 53% in other ethnic population (53% in females and 53% in males). A nonlinear relationship between sleep duration and ADL disability was observed. Sleep duration of 8-10 hours was associated with the lowest risk of ADL disability. Sleep duration (≥12 hours) was associated with the risk of ADL disability among the oldest-old individuals after adjusting for confounding factors (OR = 1.47, 95% CI [1.02, 2.10], p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Sleep duration more than 12 hours may be associated with an increased risk of ADL disability in the oldest-old individuals, and the optimal sleep duration among this population could be 8–10 h.
Impactos e comportamento das gerações de trabalhadores do estado de São Paulo durante o período de quarentena (Pandemia COVID-19)
Authors: Godoy Jonas William Barros , De Barros Neto Joáo Pinheiro
Published: February 2023

Este trabalho teve o objetivo de estudar quais foram os principais impactos e distúrbios desenvolvidos pelos trabalhadores no estado de São Paulo durante a pandemia de Covid-19. Trata-se de uma pesquisa exploratória que se utilizou de questionários respondidos por duzentas e quarenta e sete pessoas que estavam trabalhando em home office em virtude das medidas de isolamento social adotadas para barrar a proliferação do vírus. A pesquisa indica que talvez o maior problema na pandemia a ser enfrentado pelas empresas e pelos RH não seja o próprio vírus, agora que já existem vacinas, mas a forma com que a nossa sociedade está lidando com novas demandas de lockdown, homeschooling, isolamento social, distanciamento social e convivência em tempo integral com as pessoas de casa. Assim, os resultados do estudo sugerem a necessidade de as empresas adotarem iniciativas a fim de auxiliar todas as pessoas com sintomas ansiosos e depressivos, ocasionados pela adoção do isolamento social, principalmente em home office, oferecendo aos empregados solidariedade e apoio. Pode-se pensar em grupos de apoio em intranet das empresas redes sociais e programas de prevenção, conversas com psicólogos, orientações, dicas para superar e passar essa fase e muitos outros conteúdos relevantes para que promova o bem-estar e saúde mental dos trabalhadores. Entende-se que esse tipo de pesquisa deve ser repetido ao longo da pandemia e após seu término pelas próprias empresas para verificar a situação de seus empregados e direcionar ações mais específicas a cada caso.
Efecto de la imagen en la percepción de una marca
Authors: Fischer Laura , Espejo Jorge , Peñaloza-Otero Mónica , López-Célis Diana
Published: February 2023

Las marcas en el mercado requieren posicionarse en la mente de los consumidores; para ello, los estrategas realizan grandes esfuerzos mercadológicos, como el vincular la marca con imágenes que atraigan e interesen al mercado meta. Las imágenes juegan un papel muy importante en este proceso. En este estudio experimental, cuyo objetivo fue conocer el efecto de la imagen en la percepción de marcas posicionadas en el mercado mexicano, participaron 1 800 estudiantes universitarios de 27 estados de la República Mexicana a los cuales se les mostraron 30 imágenes, cada una con una marca y con una imagen evaluada en estudios previos. Los resultados muestran que la percepción que se tiene de la marca es lo que define la evaluación de la imagen; en otras palabras, si la marca es percibida en forma negativa, ésta modificará la evaluación de la imagen en forma negativa y viceversa; por lo tanto, en una estrategia de comunicación gráfica es muy importante que se inicie con una construcción de la marca que transmita valores éticos y de responsabilidad social.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practices towards COVID-19 Vaccine in Pregnant and Postpartum Women: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Patwardhan Rohan Udayan , Deshpande Nupur Mandar , Chaudhari Shilpa Nitin
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Pregnant and lactating women have been included in the ongoing vaccination drive against Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) by the Government of India. Despite the fact, the vaccination rates among this particular group were fairly dismal. Aim: To study the Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (KAP) related to the COVID-19 vaccine in pregnant and postpartum women in a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Obstetrics and Gynaecology wards and Outpatient Department, Smt. Kashibai Navale Medical College and General Hospital (tertiary care hospital), Pune, Maharashtra, India, from August 2021 to October 2021 among 251 pregnant and postpartum patients. The data was collected using a face-toface questionnaire. The questionnaire included demographic characteristics of study participants and a set of questions to test the KAP towards COVID-19 vaccination in pregnancy. Results: A total of 251 pregnant and postpartum women, with a mean age of 24.54 years, were surveyed. Among all the participants, 223 (89.92%) knew about the existence of the COVID-19 vaccine, however, only 23 (9.16%) were vaccinated. The most common reasons for refusing the vaccine were concerns for their own safety (n=39, 17.5%) or that of the foetus (n=107, 48.1%), lack of awareness (58.5%), and lack of recommendation by healthcare workers (63.5%). Only 67.8% of subjects believed in the efficacy of the vaccine. Overall, 16 (9.41%) women with no history of miscarriages or abortions had taken the vaccine, whereas, seven (9.33%) participants with a history of miscarriage or abortions had taken the vaccine. Conclusion: The present study reported low acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine in pregnant and postpartum women. Lack of awareness and concern for vaccine safety were the major reasons for this. Recognising the major reasons for vaccine hesitancy among this population will be useful for creating effective strategies to increase vaccine acceptance during this pandemic