bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using distance learning strategy in students’ acquisition of conceptual and procedural knowledge in mathematics
Authors: Ghunaimat Mohammad Ali
Published: September 2024

The study investigates the effect of using Distance learning (DL) on students’ acquisition of conceptual and procedural knowledge in mathematics. The study used the quasi-experimental approach, where the study was applied by two groups of ninth grade students (experimental, 25 students, and control, 26 students), the experimental group was taught by using Distance learning, and the control group was taught in the usual way, after verifying the validity coefficients. And reliability for testing conceptual and procedural knowledge. The results demonstrated statistically significant differences favoring the experimental group, suggesting that Distance learning has a beneficial impact on mathematics instruction. The study included recommendations on the necessity of promoting Distance learning usage among students and teachers additionally the function of educational technology in the process of teaching and learning mathematics.
Análise das práticas realizadas no setor têxtil para mitigação de emissões de gases de efeito estufa
Authors: Rodrigues Steinhorst Kraetzig Elda , Veiga Ávila Lucas , Lange Salvia Amanda , Schoproni Bichueti Roberto , Adriane Schvartz Marceli
Published: September 2024

As empresas do setor têxtil são responsáveis por emitir quantidades significativas de gases de efeito estufa, tornando fundamental que implementem medidas para reduzir seu impacto no clima. Neste sentido, este estudo teve como objetivo geral analisar as práticas adotadas por indústrias têxteis para mitigação das mudanças climáticas. Foram realizadas entrevistas com três empresas do setor têxtil brasileiro, com respondentes de cargos de direção e de áreas voltadas às questões de sustentabilidade das empresas. A partir dos dados obtidos, foi possível observar práticas para mitigação das emissões de gases de efeito estufa adotadas em três eixos temáticos. No eixo de mudanças climáticas observou-se: análise do ciclo de vida dos produtos, cultura organizacional voltada à mitigação das mudanças climáticas; realização de relatório de emissões; política interna de ações para mitigação das mudanças climáticas; ações colaborativas e parcerias, além de consideração das mudanças climáticas nos investimentos. A respeito dos dados obtidos sobre o eixo de carbono zero, as práticas mais adotadas foram de gestão de resíduos; inventário de emissões e adoção de sistemas de produção e equipamentos com eficiência energética. O eixo de perspectivas de descarbonização para 2050 revelou como práticas mais adotadas o uso de fontes de energia renováveis e a comunicação dos resultados de sustentabilidade/mitigação das emissões.
Integrating machine learning and deep learning for enhanced supplier risk prediction
Authors: Rezki Nisrine , Mansouri Mohamed
Published: September 2024

The importance of anticipating and preventing disruptions is underscored by the increased operational complexity and vulnerability caused by advancements in supply chain management (SCM). This has spurred interest in integrating machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) into supply chain risk management (SCRM). In this paper, we introduce a tailored method using ML and DL to improve SCRM by predicting supplier failures, thus boosting efficiency and resilience in SC operations. Our method involves five phases focused on classifying and predicting supplier failures in non-conforming deliveries. This involves forecasting failure quantities and estimating total disruption costs. Initially, data from an automotive company is selected, and appropriate potential features and algorithms are selected, performance metric aligns with case study objectives, facilitating method evaluation are used such as: Precision, recall, F1-score, and accuracy metrics assess classification models, while Mean Squared Error (MSE) is used for regression tasks. Finally, an experimental design optimizes models, assessing success rates of various algorithms and their parameters within the chosen feature space. Experimental results underscore the success of our methodology in model development. In the classification task, the Random Forest (RF) classifier achieved 86% accuracy. When combined with the Gradient Boosting classifier, the ensemble exhibited enhanced accuracy, highlighting the complementary strengths of both algorithms and their synergistic impact, surpassing the performance of RF, Support Vector Regression (SVR), k-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), and Artificial Neural Network (ANN). Noteworthy is the performance in regression tasks, where Linear Regression, ANN, and RF Regressor displayed exceptionally low MSE compared to other models.
A survey study on Industry 4.0 for Moroccan manufacturing
Authors: Assia Bilad , Mounia Zaim , Faical Zaim
Published: September 2024

In this article, a field study is conducted to analyze the state of enterprises in Morocco in the face of digitalization by studying large, small, and medium-sized enterprises. This study focuses mainly on researching the factors that influence their decision to adopt a digital strategy. Using the AHP multi-criterion method, a precise selection was made based on the opinions of experts in the field. To make this choice, a precise methodology was used: brainstorming and a weighted vote. An online survey was conducted, and 34 companies were interviewed to analyze the ways in which they are adopting digitalization, to present the most commonly used digital tools, and to study the impact, benefits, and obstacles of a digital strategy. A data analysis was applied by combining R with SPSS. The findings of this study show that Morocco is beginning to incorporate digitization into its practices, and more precisely, into the supply chain's operations, but that this use is still quite limited to certain tools and practices. They emphasize the underlying causes, highlight the benefits of digitization, and compare the levels of corporate maturity compared to digital. Six factors have been identified to influence this decision. This article contributes to an existing gap in empirical studies that highlight the integration of digital strategies, focusing on the case of Morocco. It provides useful data that can significantly improve management methods and encourage the integration of digital strategies, regardless of their size, making it a significant contribution to researchers and even industries.
The role of distribution centres in the logistics infrastructure of Kazakhstan
Authors: Arynova Zhanna , Nakipova Gulmira , Nurmaganbetova Aigul , Alina Gulzhan , Orazbayeva Aigul , Kemirkulova Dinara
Published: September 2024

Distribution centres play a key role in the supply chain and their insufficient number will entail supply chain disruptions —supply delays and problems, as well as lost profits. Currently, distribution centres in Kazakhstan are located only in large cities. However, the growth of e-commerce (from 11729.9 billion tenge to 15763.7 billion tenge in 2022 compared to 2020) determines the need to solve this problem. Our study establishes the dependence between the areas of distribution centres and the e-commerce volume. This analysis, unlike the existing ones, examines the effect of the growth of e-commerce volumes on the increasing number of distribution centres as a prerequisite for the development of the logistics infrastructure of Kazakhstan against the background of the increase in the volume of goods supplied from China in transit to Europe. The aim of the study was to analyse the role of distribution centres in the logistics infrastructure of Kazakhstan. We justify the need to increase the number of distribution centres due to the increase in both turnover in goods transit, wholesale, and retail trade. The introduction of distribution centres ensures the continuous movement of goods and strengthens the connection between suppliers and consumers. The emergence of new technologies and innovations, combined with favourable market conditions and political support, creates favourable conditions for the development of reliable distribution centres that can improve logistics efficiency and contribute to the overall economic development of Kazakhstan.
Development of a robotic wheel door opener system assistive device
Authors: Mazouzi Amine , Latour Simon , Campeau-Lecours Alexandre , Routhier Francois
Published: September 2024

Physical disabilities significantly impact individuals' ability to perform activities of daily living (ADL), leading to reduced autonomy and difficulty to accomplish daily living tasks. One such barrier is the difficulty or inability to open doors, preventing access to different rooms in their residence (bathroom, bedroom, etc.), rooms at work, or shopping areas. Existing solutions, such as robotic arms on wheelchairs and door openers mounted at the top of doors, remain expensive, complex to install, and relatively difficult for the target population to use. Addressing this challenge, this study introduces a Robotic Wheel Door Opener System (RWDOS) designed to facilitate the opening and closing of the door. The RWDOS is installed at the bottom of a door and is controlled remotely through a smartphone application. The paper presents the mechanical design and control system along with a cost analysis. It concludes with initial results and outlines the future directions for the project.
El proyecto de Magdalena Gutiérrez: poética del habitar en el Desierto de Atacama. Los cuatro modos de gestión del clima
Authors: Alfaro-Malatesta Sergio
Published: September 2024

This study addresses the issue of living in fragile ecological environments, such as oases in deserts. Currently, the oasis of San Pedro de Atacama is experiencing a decrease in its agricultural area due to urbanization and tourism, affecting the sustainability of traditional farming practices and putting at risk the ecological and cultural balance of this Atacamenian locale. The article presents sustainable design strategies for contemporary living in fragile environments, examining thermal qualities and climate control strategies applied to the “Workshop House” or Casa Taller of Magdalena Gutiérrez. Using the principles of Lisa Heschong and Eva Horn, the review also includes Reyner Banham's climate management modes. The methodology combines architectural and ethnographic analysis, structured in three stages: selection of works, construction of the conceptual framework, and analysis and systematization. Models, photographs, maps, and diagrams were used to contrast theories and thermal and cultural qualities with evidence from the work. Classification criteria included evaluating characteristics such as the degree of privacy of areas and rooms, ventilation, lighting, thermal insulation, and heating methods, with a binary rating employed for systematic evaluation. The results highlighted that Casa Taller manifests poetic living in the exteriority of the Atacama Desert, suggesting a vocation for community activities. The lighting qualities revealed a strategic design that maximizes controlled daylight, utilizing openings and skylights. It was concluded that the Casa Taller represents an expression of "Revisited Critical Regionalism." The "site-form" relationship is fundamental in this approach, balancing local techniques with cultural and natural surroundings. This work offers a sustainable model for living in fragile environments, where architectural design is appropriately integrated with the place’s climatic and cultural conditions.
Caribe, caribes: Haiti, Guadalupe e seus imaginários literários
Authors: Santos Margarete Nascimento dos , Rocha Vanessa Massoni da
Published: September 2024

A concepção deste livro remonta ao II Seminário Internacional de Literaturas Caribenhas (SILC), realizado de forma virtual de 5 a 8 de julho de 2022. Iniciativa das professoras pesquisadoras Vanessa Massoni da Rocha (UFF) e Margarete Nascimento dos Santos (UNEB), o Seminário, de natureza interinstitucional, nasceu com o intuito de contribuir para as pesquisas sobre o Caribe no Brasil, iniciadas na década de 1970 e com fôlego renovado na atualidade. A proposta de organização desta obra consiste em reunir pesquisadores universitários e estudantes de Iniciação Científica, Mestrado e Doutorado que contemplam o Caribe no âmbito de seus estudos. Nas últimas cinco décadas, presenciamos diversas gerações de pesquisadores que organizaram publicações, idealizaram eventos, redigiram artigos, elaboraram traduções e orientaram pesquisas em diversas etapas do percurso acadêmico. Assim, celebramos este estudo de excelência, reconhecendo o pioneirismo de colegas e estimulando o encontro de gerações que privilegiaram e privilegiam o Caribe em seus estudos científicos. Ao reunir quatorze contribuições de autores associados a onze instituições brasileiras e também do exterior, esta publicação aproxima vozes, estimula o diálogo entre pesquisadores e contribui para a fortuna crítica sobre o Caribe de língua francesa. Ao adotar a perspectiva comparatista, o livro amplia seu campo de estudos e seu público-alvo, endereçando-se tanto aos pesquisadores de Caribe quanto a todos aqueles que se interessam pelos estudos pós-coloniais, decoloniais, latino-americanos, de gênero, de raça e de crítica literária contemporânea. Os autores em seus capítulos contemplam questões basilares para a compreensão da complexidade caribenha, tais como: a relação entre Literatura e História, a partir de novos paradigmas epistêmicos; (res)significações identitárias; questões étnico-raciais; configurações do feminino; espaço e cidade; violência policial; vozes da ancestralidade; memórias; representações da morte; bifurcações entre escrita caribenha e cânone literário.
Pink tax: Challenges faced by Indonesian women as consumers of personal care products
Authors: Utami Arvhi Mega , Prastiwi Juwita Hayyuning
Published: September 2024

The phenomenon of pink tax is a gender inequality issue that discriminates women in the purchase of goods or services by producers. The objective of this research is to identify the pink tax phenomenon in Indonesia, encompassing its existence, influencing factors, and the urgency of the related issue. Additionally, this study aims to analyse the role of the government through policies regarding the emergence of the pink tax phenomenon. Policies closely associated with the pink tax include Law Number 8 of 1999 on Consumer Protection, Law Number 5 of 1999 on the Prohibition of Monopoly Practices and Unfair Business Competition, and Law Number 7 of 2014 on Trade. The research methodology employed in this study is qualitative, involving literature review, documentary analysis, and interviews. The findings of this research indicate that the pink tax exists in Indonesia, yet awareness of this issue is not evenly distributed across all layers of society. While some institutions have acknowledged the existence of this problem, there have been no concrete steps taken to reduce or address this gender-based price discrimination. Furthermore, current policies are deemed inadequate in addressing gender-based price discrimination practices and protect women’s consumer. This is attributed to the fact that gender equality elements are not fully encompassed in the existing policies.
Nomophobia syndrome and its impact on morale and behavior change in early childhood
Authors: Kamil Nurhusna , Narjis Kalilah , Wahyuni Sri
Published: September 2024

Nomophobia has become a prevalent issue which affects individuals today. This leads many to feel constantly connected to their devices. The term, derived from "No Mobile Phone Phobia," describes an excessive reliance on gadgets. This psychological condition is recognized as a global psychosocial phenomenon that influences mobile phone users and affects their morals and behavior. Alarmingly, this issue has also emerged among young children, with many preschoolers showing signs of addiction. This study is aimed at exploring the effects of nomophobia on early childhood, focusing on its moral and behavioral consequences in daily life. The study employed a qualitative case study approach and it involved two 5-year-old children. Data were collected through observations and unstructured interviews with their parents. The findings indicated that excessive gadget used in early childhood could significantly alter children's morals and behaviors. This was primarily due to insufficient parental supervision of their app usage. The study emphasized the need for intervention from adults, including both parents and teachers, who are the closest guardians to children in monitoring smartphone usage. These collaborative preventive measures to monitor and mitigate the negative impacts of smartphone usage are important to do. Future studies for exploring nomophobia in early childhood contexts are encouraged to delve deeper into the surrounding events and circumstances that affect children.
Men's skincare trends: Korean wave hyperreality media men's beauty standards
Authors: Novianti Nadia , Darmawan Diaz Restu
Published: September 2024

The desire for a white and smooth face is not only a woman's need, but has become a man's need as well. This new phenomenon is influenced by the globalization of the Korean wave, which has created contemporary cultural standards. Such as the increased need for facial skin care products among men. Therefore, this paper discusses how the development of the Korean Wave affects men's skincare needs that are provided through Instagram. It even leads to the emergence of a new hyperreality that replaces the previous cultural standard. Hyperreality is the result of postmodernism, which makes the role of media a source of new human needs. The preparation of this paper is through the netnography method and literature review. The netnography method itself is a development of ethnography that uses Internet media to find information and connect with informants. Netnography helps research to examine social phenomena that appear in the Internet world, and has special methods in interviewing and validating information data obtained from Internet media. This paper shows that Somethinc's local product is a symbol of hyperreality that shifts the special needs of one gender to a common need raised by the globalization of the Korean Wave at this time. The new standards of life brought by the media show that the media has penetrated human life. It has even become a new standard or a standard for the continuation of life.
Handling child labor in Banda Aceh City: An analysis in optimizing stakeholder participation
Authors: Hanifa Dina , Zamharira Cut , Khalil Zakki Fuad
Published: September 2024

In Banda Aceh, it is common to see children who are not yet of working age selling in cafes and at traffic lights. Their working hours exceed 3 hours a day, and the work they do can threaten safety and interfere with children’s education, which is in conflict with law number 13 concerning employment. This study aims to determine stakeholder participation in handling child labor in Banda Aceh City. Employing qualitative research methods with a descriptive framework, researchers identified multiple actions undertaken by stakeholders in addressing child labor in Banda Aceh City. First, the Banda Aceh City Social Service has the authority to provide guidance to child workers. Second, DP3AP2KB Banda Aceh City has the authority to prevent and handle violence against children. Third, the UPTD PPA Banda Aceh City has the authority to respond quickly and is psychoeducational to child victims of violence. Fourth, Banda Aceh City Satpol PP and WH have the authority to supervise, control, and safeguard child workers to maximize public order and community security. Furthermore, the challenges in handling child labor in the City of Banda Aceh are: 1) the behavior of people who easily feel pity; 2) the behavior of child workers who are used to working on the streets; 3) the limited authority of the government; 4) weak applicable laws and no special regulations regarding child labor.
Gender equality in the Qur’an: An Analysis of surah an-Nisa’ verses 1 and 34 in the exegesis of al-Tabari and al-Rāzī
Authors: Ismail Nurjannah , Firdaus Muhammad , Darmawijaya Edi
Published: September 2024

Surah An-Nisa' verses 1 and 34 have been central to discussions on gender. According to the interpretations of Imam al-Ṭabarī and Imam al-Rāzī, these verses place women in a subordinate role, both in domestic and non-domestic spheres. This interpretation is considered biased, not reflecting the true essence of the Qur'an. Therefore, further research is necessary to uncover the Qur'an’s intended view on gender in these verses. The study uses a descriptive-analytical method with a qualitative approach, gathering data from books, theses, and articles. The findings reveal that al-Ṭabarī and al-Rāzī's interpretations reinforce male superiority in patriarchal tradition, stating that Eve was created from Adam's rib and that the husband is the absolute leader of the wife. However, contemporary scholars argue that interpreting "nafs" as referring to the unity of humanity without any connotation of gender superiority, emphasizing equality in Islam. The Qur'an advocates for justice in gender issues, making traditional interpretations obsolete in today's context. Regarding Surah An-Nisa' verse 34, al-Ṭabarī and al-Rāzī interpreted men as the rightful leaders over their wives due to the advantages given by Allah, with financial responsibility as the foundation of their authority. However, modern-contemporary tafsir scholars reject this view, interpreting qiwāmah as shared responsibility regardless of gender, emphasizing partnership in the household and gender equality in Islam. This reflects efforts to understand Qur'anic verses contextually and inclusively, supporting the principles of equality and justice.
A.N. Tolstoy in the Memoirs of M.V. Neustrueva. Part 2. Aleksey Nikolaevich and Mariya Vasilievna
Authors:   Samara Literary Memorial Museum named after M. Gorky, Perepelkin Mikhail A. ,   Russian Christian Academy for Humanities
Published: September 2024

This publication of fragments of the memoirs of M.V. Neustrueva (1885–1961) is a continuation of the publication presented in the previous issue of the journal. Having moved to St. Petersburg in 1909, Neustrueva entered the Bestuzhev Courses. She became an active participant and visitor to various literary, artistic, and other salons and societies, where she met many famous artists. Some of these meetings, as well as her ongoing acquaintance with recent Samara resident Aleksey Tolstoy, she described in her memoirs, which are a unique document that reveals in a new way both the life of the capital, seen through the eyes of a recent provincial and Tolstoy, whose rise to fame began quite recently but was confident and became more and more intense day by day. The introductory article preceding the publication reveals some biographical aspects of Aleksay Tolstoy’s life against the background of which the events described by Mariya Neustrueva unfolded.
“He Got to Italy and He Got Caught Forever”: Dating Pavel Muratov’s First Italienische Reise
Authors:   Mesrop Mashtots Institute of Ancient Manuscripts (Matenadaran), Zeltchenko Vsevolod V.
Published: September 2024

The question of dating Pavel Muratov’s first travel to Italy (the crucial milestone in his biography) turns out to be unexpectedly complicated, so its solution may also have a methodological interest. Scholars point to 1907 or 1908, with the former date prevailing. In 2019, shortly before her death, Xenia Muratova, Muratov’s grandniece, informed Rita Giuliani that she had found in her home archive some documents that testify in favour of 1908. On the other hand, Ludmila Pravoverova, a biographer of the painter Nikolai Ulyanov, who was a companion of the Muratovs on this journey, defended the 1907 date: according to her, in 1908, Muratov and his wife went to Italy again without the Ulyanovs, and this fact caused the confusion. At first glance, it seems convincing: in fact, both Ulyanov in his autobiographical notes (1924) and Muratov in his essay Nikolai Pavlovich Ulyanov (1922, published in 1925) attributed their voyage to 1907. For the first time involving several archival documents, proposing a conjecture to the text of Muratov’s essay, and arguing that Ulyanov’s Italian postcard was misdated by its editor, the author hopes to demonstrate that the validity of the earlier chronology is deceptive and the journey began in September / October 1908.
On the Issue of Printed Sources of the 6th Part of K.G. Paustovsky’s The Story of a Life “On Low Heat. (Book of Wanderings)”
Authors:   A.M. Gorky Institute of World Literature of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Skorokhodov Maxim V.
Published: September 2024

The article reveals the main milestones of Konstantin G. Paustovsky’s creative cooperation with the editors of the journals “Znamya” and “Novyi Mir,” in which The Story of a Life was published. Identified and briefly characterized lifetime printed sources of the text of three chapters of the sixth part of The Story of a Life — “On Low Heat (The Book of Wanderings)”: “The Fourth Strip,” “January Cold” (“The Cold”) and “Night Trains.” The article identifies and characterizes the discrepancies in the named chapters and hypothesizes about the reasons for their occurrence. The novelist, having published individual chapters in periodicals and then the whole work in the journal “Novyi Mir,” continued to work on the text by expanding or clarifying the characters’ features, correcting descriptions, and adding or removing epithets. In many cases, after publication in the journal “Novyi Mir,” the preparation of which was not without editorial intervention, Paustovsky returned to the original version, sometimes making minor editorial corrections. The article introduces new sources into the scientific circulation, including letters addressed to the writer containing statements about the sixth part of The Story of a Life.
Petr Mokievskii in “Russkoe Bogatstvo”: Two Disputes that Failed
Authors:   Scientific Library named after M. Gorky, St. Petersburg State University, Vostriko Alexey V.
Published: September 2024

This article covers certain aspects of the status at “Russkoe Bogatstvo” (“Russian Wealth”) of one of the journal’s long-time editors, Pavel Vasilievich Mokievskii. The archival material, unpublished for the most part, presents him as an independent author and unconstrained, principled journalist. The article examines two episodes connected with the dissatisfaction of authors M.M. Filippov in 1895 and V.V. Lesevich in 1898 with reviews written by Mokievskii. In both cases, the offended authors appealed to the chief editor of “Russkoe Bogatstvo,” N.K. Mikhailovskii, demanding that he print their rejoinders, while he, in turn, redirected their responses to Mokievskii along with his thoughts on the possibility and / or necessity of a dispute on the pages of the journal. In both instances, Mokievskii managed to convince the editor not only of the integrity of his opinions on their merits but also of the futility of any long-drawn-out dispute. Moreover, in the second case, concerning V.V. Lesevich, with whom Mikhailovskii had maintained friendly relations for many years, Mokievskii expressed a readiness to end his collaboration with the journal should his position not be adopted. A detailed examination of these episodes not only reveals the hidden mechanisms behind journalistic disputes but also adds considerably to our conception of the relationships of “Russkoe Bogatstvo” staff among themselves and to those authors who oppose their views.
Innovation-Driven Green Economic Diversification for Resource-Exhausted Cities in Heilongjiang Province
Authors:   Asian Development Bank, Bai Jie , Gupta Ravi ,   Tambourine Innovation Ventures
Published: September 2024

This brief explores how cities in Heilongjiang Province in the People’s Republic of China could diversify away from extractive and resource-dependent industries by promoting innovation to foster high-value, low-carbon alternatives. The brief looks at how cities could harness and develop comparative advantages to create jobs. It draws on international and national best practices, policy simulation, and analysis of existing policies.
Acquired Alopecia in an 86-year-old Woman: A Quiz
Authors: Caillot Raphaelle , Eymieux Sébastien , Blanchard-Laumonnier Emmanuelle , Moineau Anne-Guillemette , Leducq Sophie
Published: September 2024

Abstract is missing (Quiz)
Comparison of nerve block and spinal anesthesia in second toe pulp free flap surgery for fingertip reconstruction
Authors: Yu Deok Hyeon , Kim Yunki , Park Jiho
Published: September 2024

Toe pulp flap surgery is a viable option for soft tissue defects of the fingertips, effectively addressing patient needs and fingertip characteristics. The preferred anesthesia for lower-extremity surgery includes spinal and regional anesthesia. However, the choice between these methods depends on patient safety and surgical efficacy. In this retrospective study, we aimed to ascertain the optimal anesthetic technique by examining the efficacy, safety, pain control, and potential side effects of spinal and peripheral nerve block anesthetics. We included 40 patients aged 18–60 years who underwent partial second toe pulp free flap surgery for fingertip reconstruction. Twenty patients received spinal anesthesia (SA), while the remaining 20 received peripheral nerve block anesthesia. We conducted a comparative analysis of postoperative pain scores, adverse effects, analgesic usage, and patient satisfaction scores associated with each anesthesia method. Independent t-test, Mann–Whitney U test, and chi-squared test were performed. The SA group exhibited hypotension, bradycardia, urinary retention, and postdural puncture headache rates of 10%, 10%, 5%, and 5%, respectively. A significant difference in the timing of first analgesic use was observed (spinal, 3.7 ± 0.8 vs. peripheral nerve block, 13.2 ± 6.6; P = 0.006). Visual analog scale (VAS) scores of the patients at the 2nd, 4th, and 6th h were significantly lower in the peripheral nerve block group (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, respectively). VAS scores at 12 and 24 h were similar between the groups (P = 0.07, P = 0.135, respectively). Peripheral nerve block anesthesia is superior to SA for partial second toe pulp free flap surgery, offering lower complication rates, reduced postoperative pain, and improved patient comfort.
Immersive visualization of movement in patients with hemophilic ankle arthropathy. Multicenter, single-blind, randomized clinical trial
Authors: Ucero-Lozano Roberto , Pérez-Llanes Raúl , Cuesta-Barriuso Rubén , Donoso-Úbeda Elena
Published: September 2024

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of immersive movement observation in adult patients with haemophilic ankle arthropathy. Design: Multicentre, single-blind, randomized clinical trial. Subjects: 48 patients with haemophilia. Methods: Patients were randomly allocated to 2 groups (180º immersive video-based visualization of movement and a control group with no intervention). Twenty-eight consecutive 15-min home sessions, 1 per day, of immersive visualization of ankle flexion–extension movement were carried out. Three evaluations were performed: pretreatment (T0), post-intervention (T1), and at 16 weeks’ follow-up (T2). The primary variable was joint-pain intensity (visual analogue scale). The secondary variables were conditioned pain modulation (Conditioned Pain Modulation Index), pressure pain threshold (pressure algometer), range of motion (goniometry) and kinesiophobia (Tampa Scale of Kinesiophophia). Results: There were intergroup differences in pain intensity (F = 37.14; p < 0.001), conditioned pain modulation (F = 5.40; p = 0.006), and dorsal (F = 19.17; p < 0.001) and plantar (F = 9.27; p<0.001) ankle flexion. More than 50% of experimental group patients exhibited changes exceeding the minimum detectable change in pain intensity (MDC = 0.43), and the pressure pain threshold in the extensor carpi radialis longus muscle (MDC = 1.34) and malleolus (MDC = 4.93). Conclusions: 180º immersive video-based visualization of movement can improve the intensity of pain, conditioned pain modulation, and ankle range of motion in patients with haemophilic ankle arthropathy.
A Simple Dispersive Liquid-Liquid Microextraction for the Determination of Copper II in the Water Samples of the Halfaya Oil Field in Maysan
Authors: Salim Anwer S. , Thani Mohammed Z. , Atia Abdull Jabar KH. , Fattah Hassan A.
Published: September 2024

Background: Copper, an important trace element for life on Earth, is crucial to many metabolic processes. This includes its role in the production and breakdown of nucleic acids and the metabolism of proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates. Objective: We aim to integrate DLLME with a spectrophotometric method to establish a novel approach for quantifying trace amounts of copper in water samples. Methods: In this study, a new ligand known as a 2-(4 aminophenol) benzimidazole azo derivative was successfully synthesized. This ligand was created by converting 2-(4-aminophenyl) benzimidazole into a diazonium salt and coupling it with 8-hydroxyquinoline in an alkaline environment. The resulting product was a brown azo dye, which served as the ligand for detecting copper (II) in aqueous samples. Results: To analyze copper (II) in both pure and aqueous samples, we developed and validated micro-extraction techniques combined with UV-Vis measurement. Specifically, we used the DLLME (dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction) method to separate, enrich, and assess copper (II) in both its pure form and in aqueous samples. UV-Vis spectroscopy at a wavelength of 503 nm was used for this purpose. We considered several variables during the experiment, including the type and volume of the dispersive solvent, the extraction solvents, the temperature, the reaction duration, and the centrifuging time. By optimizing these conditions, we achieved linear procedures within the concentration range of (1.0–25.0) and (2.0–25.0) μg/mL for spectroscopy and DLLME methods, respectively. For the spectroscopic and DLLME approaches, the coefficient of determination (R2) was found to be 0.9963 and 0.9979 for the spectrophotometric and DLLME methods, respectively. The limit of detection (LOD) for copper (II) was found to be 0.23 and 0.04 μg/mL, respectively. Moreover, the recovery of the target analyte in aqueous samples was found to be between 95.6% and 101% for the spectroscopy method and between 102.4% and 108.2% for the DLLME method. Conclusions: These results demonstrate the effectiveness and accuracy of both methods in analyzing copper (II) in aqueous samples.
Stater som rasjonelle aktører
Authors: Knutsen Torbjørn
Published: September 2024

Dette er en omtale av How States Think: The Rationality of Foreign Policy av John Mearsheimer og Sebastian Rosato (Yale University Press, 2023) .
Binuclear Malonohydrazide Dithiocarbamate Complexes of Ni(II), Pd(II) and Pt(II): Synthesis, Characterization, Antimicrobial Activity, and SEM Studies
Authors:   Department of Chemistry, College of Education for Pure Sciences, University of Kirkuk, Kirkuk, Iraq, Mohammed Hassan. A. , Beebany Shakhawan ,   Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, University of Kirkuk, Kirkuk, Iraq, Ali Umeed ,   Department of Chemistry, College of Education for Pure Sciences, University of Kirkuk, Kirkuk, Iraq
Published: September 2024

Binuclear complexes have been prepared with formula [M2L2], where L is potassium 2,2'-malonylbis(hydrazine-1-carbodithioate), M is Ni(II), Pd(II), and Pt(II). Each complex has been characterized by elemental analysis (CHNS), UV-Visible, FT-IR spectra, proton and carbon nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR and 13C NMR) spectra, magnetic susceptibility, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and molar conductivity.
Adaptation of the Neat Algorithm for Complex Problems with the Help of Quality Diversity Algorithms
Authors:   Uzhhorod National University, Liakh Ihor , Morokhovych Vasyl ,   Uzhhorod National University, Kut Vasyl ,   Uzhhorod National University, Vakulchak Vasyl ,   Uzhhorod National University, Maior Dmytro ,   Uzhhorod National University
Published: September 2024

The article discusses the essence of the NEAT (NeuroEvolution of Augmenting Topologies) algorithm in solving problems of neural network optimization and evolution of their topologies. An overview of the current state of use of NEAT and its adaptations in evolutionary computing research is given. The need for the Quality Diversity (QD) approach to increase the diversity and quality of solutions in complex problems is substantiated. The QD concept and its impact on the search for innovative solutions within diverse search spaces are described. The application of ViE-NEAT, which combines the advantages of survival of the fittest solutions with the principle of maintaining diversity, is described. The main aspects of ViE-NEAT are compared with the traditional NEAT, analyzing the advantages of using the survival algorithm in comparison with competitive methods. A detailed description of the MAP-Elites algorithm is given, which demonstrates an alternative approach to finding solutions by ensuring the diversity of the “illuminated” feature space, which can be integrated with NEAT to form a more diversified population of solutions. The main focus is on the methodology of integrating NEAT with MAP-Elites algorithms to create an adapted search strategy. Based on the basic principles of NEAT, the possibilities of its extension for effective solution of new problems that are not limited to traditional parametric spaces are determined. An analysis of the results demonstrating the efficiency of using the adapted NEAT algorithm in comparison with traditional approaches to the evolution of neural networks is presented.
Contract-based Testing Using the Ontology Approach
Authors:   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Krupa Dmytro
Published: September 2024

This article analyzes the use of contract testing to verify the compatibility of two components, specifically web servers that use an Application Programming Interface (API) for data transmission. Additionally, the article includes a comparison of APIs and contract tests and describes cases where the latter have an advantage. A contract structure for contract testing is described. The article contains a description of the ontological approach for comparing knowledge about the business systems of the provider, in the form of ontologies, with the software representation of the consumer system, stored in the form of classes. A structure of the object that supplements the contract by providing it with business logic level checks is developed. Basic predicates that form the basis of this method are proposed and described. The use of the mapping field allows for the use of thesauruses or dictionaries for automated replacement of concepts when using synonym words. An example is provided that demonstrates the operation of this approach, namely: a simplified representation of the provider system’s concepts, a simplified structure of the consumer system’s classes, an example of an API and a contract for it, an extension using the developed approach, and the result of test execution.
Big Data Technology Usage in Electric Transportation Industry
Authors:   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Markiv Oleh , Ryshkovets Yuriy ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University
Published: September 2024

In the context of critical challenges related to global warming and the necessity of reducing carbon footprint, the electric car sector is experiencing significant growth. This progress inevitably leads to the need for expansion and modernization of the charging station infrastructure. This article conducts a detailed analysis of how big data processing technologies can contribute to the optimization of this infrastructure’s use, the efficiency of charging stations, and the development of personalized services for electric vehicle users. Strategies for solving current problems, particularly in the areas of data security and standardization, are discussed, along with the impact of big data on the formation of new commercial models in the electric transport sector. Special attention is given to the analysis of existing scientific works and publications, which reveal a noticeable deficit of research focused on adapting big data technologies to specific regional conditions and analyzing the behavioral models of electric vehicle consumers. The article identifies key directions for future research aimed at exploring the potential of big data for the intelligent optimization of electric vehicle transport, particularly in areas such as demand forecasting, effective management of charging stations, development of new user services, and integration with broader urban transport management systems. Additionally, the article highlights challenges related to ensuring the confidentiality and security of collected data, the need to integrate diverse data and systems, and the current demand for qualified professionals in the field of big data analysis. The final section of the article focuses on the prospects of using big data in electric transport, their potential contribution to the development of smart city concepts, infrastructure improvement, and enhancing the quality of services for end consumers. Recommendations are provided for key stakeholders in the industry, with the aim of facilitating the adoption of strategic decisions that would take into account future opportunities and challenges. An analytical review of current literature sources and online publications is included, emphasizing the innovative nature of the research conducted.
Distributed Transactions in Microservice Architecture: Informed Decision-making Strategies
Authors:   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Bashtovyi Artem , Fechan Andrii ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University
Published: September 2024

The emergence of microservice architecture has revolutionized software development practices by decentralizing components, facilitating scalability, and enabling agility in system design and deployment. There are some benefits of incorporating microservices instead of a single server, however, distributed components introduce extra constraints and complexities in maintaining data consistency as well. As microservices interact independently, coordinating data updates across multiple services becomes challenging, particularly in scenarios where transactional integrity is required. Distributed transactions are one of the solutions for ensuring data consistency across services. Regardless of effectiveness distributed transactions entail different trade-offs and performance implications. Those trade-offs are not always justified. This study highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of distributed transactions in microservices by revisiting challenges in managing distributed transactions within data storage systems. It also represents existing solutions to the different distributed transaction methods. In this paper, through experiments comparing microservices and monolithic systems, the impact of distributed transactions on system performance is evaluated, giving intuition about consequences when a single data source transaction is migrated to the distributed environment. This research also contributes to enhancing understanding and decision-making regarding the utilization of distributed transactions in a microservices architecture. Ultimately, this paper presents an optimized decision-framework for the application of distributed transactions in microservices architecture, aiming to simplify and expedite processes of software architecture for software engineers, solution architects, and developers.
Study of the State Primary Measurement Standard of the Unit of Phase Shift Angle Between Two Voltages
Authors: Velychko Oleh , Kulish Yulia
Published: September 2024

Phase measurements are necessary for determining main parameters of the oscillatory process in complex electrical networks. Most often, it is precisely the phase shift angle (PSA) between two oscillatory processes of the same frequency that is measured. An essential indicator of the quality of electrical energy is the coefficient of asymmetry in a three-phase electrical network, which depends on the load of consumers in this network. This indicator is affected by a short circuit between two phase voltages.
Phase measurement standards, phase meters, and phase converters are included in the measuring equipment for phase measurements. They are widely used in such fields as radiolocation, radio navigation, non-destructive testing, radio engineering, telecommunications, acoustics, metallurgy, machine and aircraft industry, space industry, as well as in scientific research and defence.
The State Measurement Standard of Ukraine of the PSA unit between two voltages in the frequency range from 0.01 Hz to 10 MHz is maintained at the State Enterprise “UKRMETRTESTSTANDARD”, Kyiv. It provides metrological traceability of phases measured in the country. The main components of the standard were calibrated at the PTB, the National Metrology Institute of Germany. In Ukraine, numerous measurement standards and measurement instruments for phase measurements (more than 500.000 units) are used, in particular, phase calibrators, phase meters, phase shifters, synchronoscopes etc.
Regular study of metrological characteristics of the DETU 09-07-11 measurement standard is conducted both in the main (from 5 Hz to 200 kHz) and in the extended (from 0.01 Hz to 10 MHz) frequency range. The PSA values obtained as a result of the research in the main frequency range do not exceed 0.001° (which is maximum according to measurements at all calibration points 0.00015°), and in the extended frequency range – 0.01° (which is maximum according to measurements at all calibration points 0.0053°). To eliminate the systematic measurement uncertainty component of the phase measurement standard, a special calibration is regularly performed using a set of resistive and capacitive phase bridges.
Using Duolingo in Teaching and Learning Vocabulary: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rouabhia Ridha , Kheder Khalefa
Published: September 2024

This systematic review examines the extant literature on the efficacy of the Duolingo application for vocabulary development in instructed second language (L2) contexts. Drawing on several empirical studies, the review synthesises findings related to (a) the comparative effectiveness of Duolingo versus traditional pedagogies, (b) the impact of Duolingo on learner motivation and engagement, and (c) practical implications for classroom integration. While the majority of evidence attests to measurable gains in receptive vocabulary knowledge, the findings must be interpreted with caution due to methodological limitations, including small sample sizes, short intervention periods, and construct underrepresentation. The motivational appeal of Duolingo's gamified interface emerges as a prominent theme, corroborated by self-report data. However, the limited research employing psychometrically robust motivational measures precludes definitive conclusions about the temporal stability and transferability of this motivational effect. Theoretically, the provision of individualised feedback aligns with interactionist theories, yet the restricted opportunities for the negotiation of meaning raise doubts about the depth of lexical engagement. Pedagogically, the reviewed studies advocate the careful integration of Duolingo as a supplementary tool within formal instructional contexts. However, optimal implementation strategies remain unspecified, necessitating further classroom-based research employing mixed-methods designs. Significant gaps are identified, including the lack of investigations into the differential impacts of Duolingo's features, vocabulary transfer to authentic communication, and the development of self-regulated learning strategies.