bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arithmetic Optimization Algorithm with Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Interference System for Predicting Financial Crisis
Authors:   Department of Financial and Banking Sciences, Applied College at Muhail Aseer, King Khalid University, Saudi Arabia, Fadoua Fadoua
Published: May 2024

Financial technology (Fintech) is paramount in driving advanced technologies, economies, society, and several other sectors. Smart Fintech is the new-generation Fintech, primarily stimulated and endowed by compuational technology. Smart Fintech syndicates DSAI and renovates economies and finance for dynamic, smart, customized, automated services and systems, economies and financial companies, and the industry. The strength and development of the country’s economies are assessed by the correct forecasting. Financial crisis prediction (FCP) has the substantial consequence on the economies. Previous studies mainly emphasise statistical, DL, and ML methodologies for predicting the financial well-being of the business. Therefore, this article develops a new Arithmetic Optimization Algorithm with Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Interference System (AOA-ANFIS) technique for Predicting Financial Crisis. The presented AOA-ANFIS technique aims to predict the presence of financial crises or not. The model incorporates three major elements: Arithmetic Optimization Algorithm (AOA) for feature selection, Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) as the classification algorithm, and Bat Optimization Algorithm (BOA) for parameter tuning. The AOA feature selection model effectively detects the important attributes from a large proportion of financial indicators, augmenting the model's prediction capability while decreasing computational difficulty. Subsequently, the ANFIS classifier exploits the features selected for capturing the intricate non-linear relations intrinsic in financial data, permitting accurate crisis calculation. Additionally, the BOA parameter tuning model augments the ANFIS model's parameters, ensuring robustness and optimum performance. Experimental outcomes on varied financial databases validate the higher efficiency of the AOA-ANFIS technique over underlying processes, demonstrating its effectiveness in forecasting financial crises with great reliability and precision.
Multiple Attribute Group Decision-Making with Neutrosophic Environment for Carbon Emission Prediction on Sustainable Urban Management
Authors:   Department of Computer Science, College of Computer Engineering and Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 16273, Saudi Arabia, Mesfer Mesfer
Published: May 2024

Sufficient CO2 is indispensable for vegetation, but space and oceanic vehicles, industrial chimneys and land use tons of extreme CO2 and are typically accountable for global warming, climate variations and greenhouse effect. Owing to COVID19, CO2 discharge was in 2020 at its lower level than first ten years. However, the time taken is not known to decrease, increase or change carbon emissions to an endurable point. Precise predicting of carbon production has real consequences for selecting the optimal ways of decreasing carbon emissions. A pressing necessity to control these carbon emissions is needed. The preliminary step is to precisely recognize the milestones and threat levels. Specific thresholds should be mapped that formulate the maximum levels of CO2 namely – the point of no return, risk point, and so on. This article focuses on the development of Multiple Attribute Group Decision-Making with Neutrosophic Environment for Carbon Emission Prediction (MAGDM-NECEP) method on Sustainable Urban Management. The MAGDM-NECEP architecture proficiently manages the multi-criteria nature of emission calculation, while neutrosophic logic accommodates ambiguity and uncertainty in input dataset. Furthermore, GSO enhances model parameters, improving prediction performance. The MAGDM synergy and neutrosophic logic offer strong decision-making abilities, whereas GSO fine-tuned the model parameter for superior outcomes. Empirical analysis establishes the efficiency of the presented technique in precisely predicting carbon emission, providing valuable insight for the environmentalist and policymaker in developing efficient mitigation strategy
Neutrosophic Social Structures and Neutrosophic 2-tuples Technique for Studying Labor Insertion and Gender Inequality
Authors:   niversidad Peruana los Andes, Perú, Michael Michael ,   Universidad Nacional Autónoma Altoandina de Tarma, Perú,   Universidad Peruana los Andes, Perú,   Universidad Peruana los Andes, Perú,   Universidad Peruana los Andes, Perú, .. Ketty M. Moscoso , Avila-Zanabria Percy T. Avila , Vivanco-Nuñez Omar A. Vivanco-Nu� , Calderon-Fernandez Paul C. Calderon
Published: May 2024

This study explores the dynamics of job placement and gender inequality at the Universidad Peruana Los Andes in Huancayo, Peru, with a focus on the application of neutrosophic methods. Recognizing the nuanced differences in professional opportunities for men and women, we employ the Smarandachean theory of neutrosophic social structures to examine these disparities. During 2021-2022, we conducted surveys among university graduates, utilizing the 2-tuple linguistic neutrosophic model to measure their satisfaction levels. This approach, grounded in neutrosophy, allows for a more precise capture of the participants' thoughts and feelings by effectively incorporating the inherent indeterminacies of social phenomena. The use of these neutrosophic tools provides a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between job placement and gender in professional settings.
The Smart Trust framework for WBAN: An AI-driven approach for node trust assessment
Authors:   College of Education, Computer Science, Al-Mustansiriya University, Baghdad, Iraq, Hala Hala
Published: May 2024

The primary contribution of this research lies in its innovative use of artificial intelligence to automate the trust assessment process in WBANs, providing a dynamic solution to the challenge of maintaining data integrity and network reliability. The SmartTrust (SmTr) framework uses advanced machine learning techniques to accurately analyze historical and behavioral data of network nodes. Thus, computer trustworthiness scores allow one to effectively distinguish between trustworthy nodes and potentially malicious nodes. WBANs and their services are rapidly gaining popularity, but they pose unprecedented security challenges. These requirements are being met with WBAN as it evolves. In an increasingly complex, heterogeneous, and evolving mobile environment, completing these tasks can be difficult. A more secure and adaptable WBAN environment can be achieved by using trust management to meet WBAN security requirements. The reliability of a wireless sensor network is evaluated through behavioral evidence. Researchers use the results of node behavior almost directly or combine them with the results of third-party evaluation, instead of studying the original evidence of node behavior and ignoring the analysis of the history of node behavior, which leads to low confidence, rationality, and reliability. SmartTrust (SmTr) is a new approach based on artificial intelligence (AI) to improve trust and reliability over wireless body area networks (WBAN). As a modern healthcare system, this technology can be considered. Experimental results from implementing the SmTr framework demonstrate its effectiveness in improving network resilience against security threats, improving resource allocation, and thus increasing the quality and reliability of healthcare delivery.
Results in the clonation of Melia Azederach L. and M. toosendan Sieb. et Zucc. resistant to the cold
Authors: Abedini W. I. , Ciocchini G. R. , Marlats R. M.
Published: May 2024

The variability observed in the results of the descendants of the selected specimens by resistance to the cold of Melia azederach and Melia toosendan may surpass through the vegetative propagations of the selected trees. In the Experimental Farmland of the Faculty of Agronomy of the National University of La Plata situated to the 34º55' LS; 57º57' LW 15 m s.n.m. Province of Buenos Aires - Argentine Republic, selections of Melia azederach and Melia toosendan cultures selections were made which survived to low temperatures. The used method for the vegetative propagation consisted on the immersion of the stem cuttings base in a solution of 40 p.p.m. of Indole Acetic Acid for 24 hours. Previously washed with running water for 48 hours. After 90 days in inert substrate under green house conditions with controled temperature and light, the following results were obtained in percentage of complete plants: Melia azederach cv Garrasino 61 p. 100, M. toosendan 46 p. 100, M. azederach cv Azederach 25 p. 100, M. azederach cv Gotz 7 p. 100. It's important to mention that the herbaceous material of branches in lettargy was homogenized in weight of the stem cutting and the fresh weight of the roots, leaves and shoots, getting a high positive correlation among these, and a great degree of dependance was also obtained between the fresh weight of roots and the fresh weight of leaves and shoots. It concludes in the differential answer of the taxons for this taking roots method and the influence of material propagation quality in the quantity of produced plants
Central American forest ecosystem destruction. Need of actions for its germoplasm conservation
Authors: Salazar R.
Published: May 2024

A review on forest genetic richness and diversity in Central America and the destruction process that takes place is presented. Different conservation alternatives and the important role played by the preserved areas in several hundred species conservation are discussed here. Reforestation should play a very important role in conservation. But in order to be considered as an important tool in the protection of forest resources in Central America, at present reforestation still shows a very low level.
The effect of temperature and humidity on the germination of holm oak and cork oak acorns
Authors: De Zulueta J. , Montoto J. L.
Published: May 2024

Trials have been carried out with Holm oak and Cork oak acorns, in the same edafoclimatic conditions in land in Extremadura, in order to establish germination losses by growth temperatures and loss of humidity. The results show that temperature does not affect germination until it rises above 55º C, therefore it does not have a negative effect, whatever the type of storage. In Holm oak, the loss of humidity of 15 p. 100 brings about a mayor decrease in the germination, which is absolute from 20 p. 100. In the Cork oak, there is an acceptable level of germination between a loss of 25-30 p. 100 and nil germination from 40 p. 100. With the drying of the air, under trial conditions, the Holm oak acorns did not germinate after 21 days, and the Cork oak after 38 days.
Height influence on peeling aptitude of Populus wood
Authors: Miranda M.
Published: May 2024

The present study, developed in the Forest Industries Department of INIA, observes as to whether the peeling aptitude of Populus wood is affected by a factor inherent to the tree, namely, the height of the log. All the samples have been obtained from the same place in order to minimize the influence of site factors. The chosen place is the Duero basin because it is there where the biggest concentration of poplar in Spain exists (46 p. 100). In each tree, a study is made as to whether the said height has any influence, within a seires of fundamental variables, on peeling. In fact, an important influence is found
Climatic change and the natural Spanish pastures
Authors: Allué Camacho C.
Published: May 2024

Particular aspects of the Dinamic Phytoclimatic Model and most important effects with respect to some natural patures are presented.
Predicting final thickness of cork planks. Application to sampling cork production
Authors: González Adrados J. R. , González Hernández F. , Calvo Haro R.
Published: May 2024

105 cork samples (20 cm x 20 cm) have been extracted from seven sites selected as representatives of the main cork oak production areas in Spain. Age, thickness and annual growth of cork have been measured on the transversal section of each piece. Thickness of cork one, two and three years before stripping has been calculated. Lineal regression analysis has been performed to obtain predicting equations for thickness at debarking time, where independent variables were thickness one, two or three years before stripping and growth rate at each moment. A set of equations was obtained, and regression coefficients varied between 0.9918 (the year before stripping) and 0.9182 (three years before stripping). Due to the sampling method, it is considered that these equations can be applied all over the cork oak distribution area in Spain. Best results can be obtained using the following equation: EF = 0.70021 + 1.05232 * Et–1 (EF: final cork thickness; Et–1: cork thickness one year before stripping) The results allow some changes in the current sampling methods, designed for owners assessment, as sampling in the field can be done the year before stripping. Due to the role of thickness in grading of cork planks, more 75 % of the production is not affected by these estimations, when thickness one year before stripping is used.
Noble Hardwoods. EUFORGEN Genetic Conservation Network
Authors: Eriksson G.
Published: May 2024

The EUFORGEN network on noble hardwoods was established in 1996 and formulated at its first meeting the objective as follows: Identification of minimum gene conservation activities in the long term from a European perspective. A more specific formulation of the objective is: To safeguard the evolutionary potential of a species. Another objective valid for wild relatives of domesticated fruit tree species is to preserve their present genetic constitution. Since the genetic knowledge is scanty for most noble hardwoods the gene conservation methods have to a large extent be based on educated guesses about genetic differentiation among populations as well as the dynamics of the populations. For most commonly occurring species the in situ version of the Multiple Population Breeding System (MPBS) is suggested. MPBS means that the gene resource population is split into 20-30 subpopulations, each with an effective population size of at least 50 trees. Species with wide pollen dispersal will have the lower number of populations whereas species with limited pollen dispersal require more populations. Gene conservation in low hedges of elms is a method that prevents the attacks of the vector of the serious Dutch elm disease. For rarely occurring species establishment of clone archives to increase the effective population size is suggested. In most cases there will be no funding for such an expensive gene conservation. For these cases delivery of seedlings free of charge is an alternative. Many of the rarely occurring species are secondary species in an ecosystem and as such suffer from competition from climax species. Alleviation of this competition by thinning of the competing species is useful. The recommendations by the network should be regarded as a minimum from a European perspective and each country can complement with more gene resource populations.
The role of biotechnology in forest genetic resource conservation
Authors: Toribio M. , Celestino C.
Published: May 2024

In today’s world, in which the increasing demand of agricultural products and the changing needs of raw materials and environmental pressures are threatening all natural ecosystems, particularly the forest ecosystems, is specially important the knowledge and conservation of forest resources. Biotechnology offers new tools for complementing classical Forest Tree Improvement methodologies in order to manage Forest Genetic Resources (FGR). The impressive achievements of the techniques of Molecular Biology and Plant Tissue Culture in the last two decades are in the background of the development of fields such as DNA markers, tree genomics, genetic transformation, criopreservation and plant regeneration (expression of cellular totipotency). Particularly suitable for application to genetic resources are DNA markers, so that the nature, extent and distribution of natural variability of plant species can be assessed at the genome level, and therefore aiding in decisions about what and how to conserve. Criopreservation and plant regeneration are useful to conserve and micropropagate specific plant material for ex situ conservation and developing high-value clonal forestry. Different applications of these tools to forest trees are reviewed. The research work of Spanish groups dealing with Iberian species is placed in this context.
Readability Analysis of Patient Education Material on Rotator Cuff Injuries From the Top 25 Ranking Orthopaedic Institutions
Authors: Miskiewicz Michael , Capotosto Salvatore , Ling Kenny , Hance Frederick , Wang Edward
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Rotator cuff injuries (RCIs) are incredibly common in the US adult population. Forty-three percent of adults have basic or below-basic literacy levels; nonetheless, patient educational materials (PEMs) are frequently composed at levels exceeding these reading capabilities. This study investigates the readability of PEMs on RCIs published by leading US orthopaedic institutions.

Methods:

The top 25 orthopaedic institutions on the 2022 U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals Specialty Ranking were selected. Readability scores of PEMs related to RCI were calculated using the www.readabilityformulas.com website.

Results:

Among the 25 analyzed PEM texts, all exceeded the sixth-grade reading level. Only four of 168 scores (2.4%) were below the eighth-grade level.

Discussion:

This study indicates that PEMs on rotator cuff injuries from top orthopedic institutions are too complex for many Americans, with readability levels ranging from 8.5 to 16th grade, well above the CDC-recommended eighth-grade level. The research highlights a widespread issue with high reading levels across healthcare information and underscores the need for healthcare providers to adopt patient-centered communication strategies to improve comprehension and accessibility.

Conclusion:

PEMs on rotator cuff injuries from leading orthopedic institutions often have a reading level beyond that of many Americans, exceeding guidelines from the NIH and CDC that recommend PEMs be written at an eighth-grade reading level. To increase accessibility, enhance healthcare literacy, and improve patient outcomes, institutions should simplify these materials to meet recommended readability standards.
Diabetes Distress, Depression and Coping Strategies in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Malik Nudra , Arshad Momina , Muazzam Amina
Published: May 2024

People with diabetes often experience two mental health conditions which are diabetes distress and depression. Both the conditions affect them negatively and increase their risk of diabetes complications and poor disease management. Objectives: To find out the prevalence of diabetes distress and depression in our sample and examine the relationship among diabetes distress, depression and coping strategies among adults with Type 2 diabetes. Methods: Cross-sectional research design was used in this study. The sample consisted of 125 patients of Type 2 diabetes with age range between 40 to 55 years (M=49.94, SD=4.21). Non probability purposive sampling technique was used to select the sample. Diabetes distress scale, depression scale and coping scale were used to assess the study variables. Results: 34% patients had moderate distress worthy of attention. Being woman, younger age, having poor coping skills and depression were significantly associated with diabetes distress. Conclusions: High rates of diabetes distress in the study highlights the significance of identifying distress and other mental health issues in individuals having diabetes to provide psychological management and collaborative care to them.
COVID-19 in Dialysis and Kidney Transplant Patients
Authors: Afzal Muahammad , Qaisar Abdul Matin , Tirimzi Syed Soban Ahmed , Pershad . , Naveed Amir
Published: May 2024

COVID-19 problems are more common in recipients of kidney transplants. There is, however, a dearth of information on the likelihood of allograft damage or death in kidney transplant recipients recuperating with COVID-19. Objective: To investigate the effect of Covid-19 on kidney transplant and dialysis patients. Methods: This Retrospective study was conducted at Department of Medicine, Avicena Medical College, Lahore from 1st October 2022 to 31st March 2023. One hundred patients with age >18 years being kidney patients diagnosed with kidney failure or had a kidney allograft were included. Patients were grouped as either kidney transplant (Group A) or hemodialysis (Group B) where both groups were Covid-19 positive on diagnosis. The score represented 1 as fit and 9 as terminally ill. Any comorbidity related with these patients apart from the kidney failure was recorded including their obesity level. The eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate) was considered as zero in dialysis cases with residual diuresis ≤ 200 mL/day and 5 mL/min/1.73 m2. Results: There were 40% kidney transplant patients positive with Covid-19 infection and 60% with hemodialysis having positive Covid-19 infection. Majority of the patients in both groups A and B were males with a percentage of 57.5% and 59.4% respectively. The clinical frailty score was higher in group B than A. Odds ratio results showed that 28 days probability risk ratio of death was higher in the kidney transplant group A patients suffering from Covid-19 virus than hemodialysis. Conclusions: Kidney transplant cases have higher severity of complication and death in cases where patients become corona virus positive.
Evaluation of Antibiotics by Disk Diffusion and Minimum Inhibitory Concentration Breakpoints in Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Qadir Hussain , Rehman Muhammad Abdur , Nasir Sadaf , Alam Muhammad Adeel , Ibrar Muhammad , Shuaib Syed Luqman
Published: May 2024

Antibiotic resistance (ABR) has made it more challenging to treat uropathogenic organisms. It is impossible to compromise antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST), which is essential and has a significant impact on infection treatment strategies. Although labor-intensive and technically challenging for everyday laboratory use, the agar dilution technique is appropriate for monitoring and assessing novel antimicrobials. Objective: To determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), Agar dilution technique and disk diffusion as susceptibility test methodologies. Methods: This study was carried out at Khyber Girls Medical College (KGMC) Peshawar. Keeping in view the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines AST was executed. BIOMÉRIEUX® API® kits and gram staining were utilized for identification of bacteria. The disk diffusion was performed using Thermo ScientificTM OxoidTM antibiotic discs of Co-trimoxazole, Levofloxacin, Nitrofurantoin and Fosfomycin. The MIC and zone of inhibitions for disk diffusion were noted according to the CLSI protocol. Results: 158 culture positive samples were isolated out of 680 total received. Esherechia Coli (E. coli) (74.1%) being the most isolated organism. In comparison of disk diffusion and agar dilution, categorical agreement for Levofloxacin, Cotrimoxazole, Nitrofurantoin and Fosfomycin were (82.28%, 72.15 %, 87.97% and 82.28%) respectively.  Kappa coefficients of (0.64, 0.43, 0.57 and 0.37) (p < 0.0001) were calculated for Levofloxacin, Co-trimoxazole, Nitrofurantoin, and Fosfomycin respectively, revealing considerable level of agreement for these antibiotics. Conclusions: It was concluded that Agar dilution is more precise than disk diffusion but being more labor intensive and technical. Disk diffusion can still produce significantly accurate results with less resource consumption.
Một số yếu tố liên quan đến chất lượng cuộc sống của người bệnh trào ngược dạ dày - thực quản tại Bệnh viện Đa khoa tỉnh Tuyên Quang năm 2023
Authors: Hồ Phương Thúy , Trần Ngọc Đức , Ngô Quang Chiến , Bàn Văn Hoàng , Nguyễn Ngọc Anh , Phạm Đỗ Thục Anh , Đỗ Thị Linh
Published: May 2024

Mục tiêu: Xác định một số yếu tố ảnh hưởng đến chất lượng cuộc sống của người bệnh trào ngược dạ dày - thực quản tại Bệnh viện Đa khoa tỉnh Tuyên Quang năm 2023.
Đối tượng và phương pháp nghiên cứu: Nghiên cứu mô tả cắt ngang được thực hiện trên 200 người bệnh đến khám và được chẩn đoán trào ngược dạ dày - thực quản tại Bệnh viện Đa khoa tỉnh Tuyên Quang. Sử dụng bộ công cụ đánh giá chất lượng cuộc sống người bệnh trào ngược dạ dày - thực quản để thu thập số liệu từ tháng 3/2023 đến tháng 6/2023.
Kết quả: Điểm trung bình chất lượng cuộc sống người bệnh từ 4,33 điểm - 4,46 điểm. Có mối liên quan giữa các yếu tố trình độ học vấn (p = 0,015), uống rượu bia (p = 0,029), hút thuốc (p = 0,017), thời gian mắc bệnh (p = 0,027), nơi sinh sống (p = 0,002), số bữa ăn trong ngày (p = 0,037) và BMI (p = 0,045) với chất lượng cuộc sống người bệnh.
Kết luận: Các yếu tố có ảnh hưởng đến chất lượng cuộc sống của người bệnh trào ngược dạ dày - thực quản trong phạm vi nghiên cứu bao gồm trình độ học vấn, uống rượu bia, hút thuốc thời gian mắc bệnh, nơi sinh sống, số bữa ăn trong ngày và BMI. Người bệnh cần tuân thủ nghiêm ngặt chế độ dùng thuốc, thay đổi hợp lý chế độ ăn uống và thói quen sinh hoạt. Cán bộ y tế tăng cường động viên, giáo dục sức khỏe cho người bệnh giúp nâng cao chất lượng cuộc sống.
Book Review: Why writing still matters: Written communication in changing times. Cambridge University Press.
Authors: Yue Chunxiao
Published: May 2024

This 190-page monograph by Guy Merchant, holistically viewing writing as a visible linguistic system, elaborates on what writing is, how writing evolves, and why writing is important. As indicated in the subtle, by “writing”, the author means a form of communication, which is an umbrella term encompassing various communicative ways instead of a sort of individual language skill.
Developing Critical Skills and Design Thinking via Practical Classes in Higher Education
Authors: Blagorazumnaia Olga , Trifonova Larisa
Published: May 2024

This article explores the importance of developing critical and design thinking skills in university education. With the growing demand for creative and innovative professionals in various industries, it is essential for universities to provide students with the opportunity to develop these competencies through hands-on activities. The authors argue that a hands-on learning approach, such as project assignments, case studies, business games, model and systems design tasks, can help students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills needed in today's rapidly changing job market. Design thinking is also becoming a core competency, capable of helping students effectively solve complex problems, develop innovative solutions, and make creative decisions. The article presents various methods of teaching practical classes for economic specialties and discusses the benefits of including such classes in the learning process. By highlighting the benefits of hands-on learning for student development and career growth, this article aims to encourage higher education institutions to adopt a more hands-on approach to education, helping students become well-rounded and employable graduates. The authors emphasize the importance of teacher assistance, acting as mentors and coaches, to contribute to the development of creative thinking and innovative approaches in students. Based on the study's results, recommendations were developed to create conditions for the development of students' critical and design thinking. Compliance with these conditions will enable universities to improve the quality of education in terms of forming competencies and enhancing graduates' competitiveness in the labor market.
The Concept of the Excess of the Perpetrator in Criminal Law
Authors: Moraru Victor , Sari Tatiana
Published: May 2024

This article examines such concepts as the excess of the perpetrator in criminal law, as well as examines the opinions of scientists on the issue under consideration. It is also determined that the excess of the executor in criminal law can be committed not only by the executor, but also by other accomplices of a crime. Suggestions for the improvement of the current legislation in the field of criminal law have been made.
FLEXURAL AND DURABILITY CHARACTERIZATION OF CONCRETE REINFORCED WITH TREATED BAMBOO AS AN ALTERNATIVE BUILDING MATERIAL
Authors: E Ndububa , OKOJO OTRONYI
Published: May 2024

Abstract
The cost and environmental problems associated with steel as a reinforcement material in concrete has necessitated the need to research for alternative reinforcement materials, and bamboo is one of them. The flexural and durability characteristics of bamboo reinforced concrete (BRC) samples under harsh environmental condition was simulated by curing samples in an alkaline solution. Bamboo splints that were coated with sanded bitumen were used to reinforce the concrete samples with unreinforced concrete (UC) serving as control. The BRC samples were cured in normal water and an equal number were cured in 5% Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) alkaline solution. Samples from both curing conditions and another of the control were tested for flexural strengths after 7, 14, 28, 56, and 76 days of curing respectively and results compared. Water absorption rates after each curing period were also taken. Ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) tests were also conducted on the samples to find out the composite qualities. The results showed that BRC had twice as much flexural strength than UC but reduced in strength by 17.9% in the alkaline environment after 28 days of curing. In addition to possessing acceptable strength values under normal water and alkaline solution curing situations by ponding, all the samples had elastic dynamic modulus and static modulus values that exceeded minimum recommended values by the relevant standards.
Vem var spritsmugglarna? Då småfolket blev företagare
Authors: Westerlund Lars
Published: May 2024

Förbudstiden i Finland 1919–32 var ett särskilt och egenartat tidsskede. Den omfattande illegala införseln av sprit har belysts i ett hundratal böcker och i tusentals tidnings- och tidskriftsartiklar. Medan populärförfattare och journalister karnevaliserat spritsmugglingen förmedlas här en inträngande bild av dess många menliga och destruktiva följder. l motsats till den allmänna föreställningen ökade spritkonsumtionen inte under förbudstiden utan torde rentav något ha minskat då den ansenliga olovliga spritinförsel som föregick förbudstiden beaktas.Spritsmugglarna har här profilerats på basen av en omfattande genomgång av de 30 tullkamrarnas beslagsdokument. De statistiska uppgifterna visar att yrkesgrupper som fiskare, sjöfolk, forslare och restaurangpersonal var överrepresenterade bland de prejade. Däremot var arbetarnas andel mindre ån arbetarbefolkningens demografiska andel.Den illegala spritinförseln betraktas hår som i huvudsak en småfolkets bisyssla och som dess komplementära näringsfång. Spritsmugglarnas dominerande företagsform var det lilla båtlaget. Verksamheten gick med nöd och näppe runt. Den enda möjligheten att göra stora vinster var att införa stora volymer, något som inte kunde lyckas i längden, också de flesta spritgrossister stötte på bittra motgångar och fick ofta tragiska livsöden. - Spritsmugglingen har inte medfört välsignelse för någon, sammanfattade en skärgårdsveteran sina välgrundade intryck av förbudstiden.Professor Lars Westerlund är docent i rätts- och förvaltningshistoria. Han har lett statliga utredningar i Statsrådets kansli och Riksarkivet och publicerat böcker om förvaltning, historia, konst & antik och biografiska porträtt.
What is a Hard Choice?
Authors:   , Jitendranath Akshath
Published: May 2024

The title of this thesis is also its question: what is a hard choice? I start addressing this in chapter 1 by arguing that at the most general level, a hard choice is a situation that condemns an agent to failure. Specifically, hard choices condemn an agent to failure because rational agents must act in a way that can be justified, but they cannot do so when facing a hard choice. They cannot do so because, in a hard choice, an agent's given reasons for action will fail to determine what, all things considered, the agent ought to do. Subsequent chapters of this thesis develops this view in more detail.

Chapter 1* presents the formal framework that will be used in this thesis. It argues that there is an important sense in which the standard theory of rational choice needs to be reformulated in order to present a sound theory of hard choices. Chapter 2 argues that leading positions on hard choices that can be found in the literature provide an inadequate understanding of them. The argument presented to defend my claims will refer directly or indirectly to the fairly intuitive idea that a situation where a best---or optimal---alternative exists does not constitute a hard choice. That is, optimization implies rationality.

Chapter 3 asks the converse: does rationality imply optimization? The chapter defends two claims. First, if you cannot optimize because of incompleteness of the binary preference or value relation that you hold, then you are facing a hard choice. Second, if you cannot optimize because the binary preference or value relation that you hold is cyclic, then you are not facing a hard choice. Chapter 4 doubles down on this claim by characterizing this understanding of a hard choice. More specifically, chapter 4 presents a systematic analysis of the axiomatic structure of hard choices with the help of the theory of rational choice. This is the most formal chapter of the thesis, and it presents joint work undertaken with Prof. Martin van Hees and Dr. Roland Luttens.

Chapter 5 also presents joint work with Prof. Martin van Hees and Dr. Roland Luttens. This chapter scrutinizes the most famous existence argument for hard choices, to wit: the small-improvement argument, and argues that it fails to establish the existence of hard choices. Chapter 6 will be concerned with extending the analysis of hard choices that has been presented in the preceding chapters. Specifically, observe that the claims in the preceding chapters have been articulated and defended by presupposing the existence of an all things considered binary relation that describes an agent's preferences or values. Chapter 6, however, will present an analysis of hard choices that does not require presupposing such a binary relation. A Coda motivates the possibility of another extension: collective hard choices.
Transgender rights under us law and experience in building transgender rights in Vietnam
Authors: Buu Hoang Le
Published: May 2024

Gender transition is an issue related to individual human rights, both a legal and social issue. For a long time, the rights of transgender people have received attention from many countries around the world. The United States and the Netherlands are two countries where the fight for transgender rights is strong and there are laws regulating gender transition. This article focuses on analyzing the legal provisions of the United States and the Netherlands on the rights of transgender people and suggests some solutions for building and perfecting the law on transgender rights for Vietnam.
Discussion on the Development of Tea Tourism Experience Products in Bashan Village in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province
Authors: Tong Yufei , Qiu Huinan
Published: May 2024

Experience economies place a strong emphasis on satisfying customers' emotions and value their psychological experiences as they engage in consumer activity. This paper examines the current state and issues facing the rural industry and takes Bashan Village in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province as a case study. It proposes a roadmap for transforming and upgrading the rural sector and creating products for cultural tourism experiences. The goal is to serve as a resource for future efforts to implement the rural revitalization strategy in domestic villages, taking into account experience economy guidelines and the needs of the strategy.
A Review of GIS Technology Applications in Transportation Planning and Management
Authors: Wang Shujie , Zhang Lin
Published: May 2024

With the rapid development of the economy, the scale of urban construction is expanding, the corresponding transportation infrastructure is also improving, and the traffic congestion problem is becoming more and more serious. The application of GIS technology to transportation management can effectively alleviate the problem of urban traffic congestion at this stage, thus improving the operation of road traffic. This paper describes the advantages of GIS technology in transportation planning and management from the aspects of accuracy, measurement convenience, visualization, scientific, dynamic, data management, and introduces its application initiatives in road design, traffic prediction, vehicle guidance, traffic system design, traffic analysis. The application of GIS technology in transportation planning is becoming more and more extensive and profound, the technology can provide ideas and technical support for modern transportation planning, but also can combine the construction of road transportation system with information technology, effectively improve the rationality and scientificity of the transportation planning program, and play a positive and significant role in reducing traffic congestion and improving the efficiency of traffic operation.
Research Progress of Hydrodynamics in Hydraulic Engineering
Authors: Huang Rui
Published: May 2024

Fluid mechanics is a complex and profound subject, and the knowledge it involves can be applied to many areas of our lives, from our drinking water to the bio-organic materials used to explore the universe, covering almost every aspect of human activity. Of course, in the aspect of hydraulic engineering, the relevant application of fluid mechanics is also essential, such as the relevant numerical calculation in hydraulic engineering, the flow pattern analysis and regulation effect analysis in waterway regulation engineering, and the interaction between fish and fluid, etc. In general, the relevant laws of fluid mechanics have broad application prospects and scientific value, and people are constantly exploring and innovating on the road of studying fluid mechanics, so as to better understand fluid mechanics and apply fluid mechanics.
Optimization Countermeasures Research of Bengbu "City Brain" Construction under the Perspective of Digital Governance
Authors: Mo Chunting , Huang Haoran , Huang Xinyue , Wang Yuxin , Feng Yushan
Published: May 2024

Both the 19th and 20th CPC National Congresses have put forward the goal of building a strong network country and a digital China. In the era of big data, the construction of the city brain is a necessary way to transform the governance of a city from traditional digitalization to a new type of intelligence. Bengbu City has also carried out the construction of the "City Brain". From the perspective of digital governance, this paper studies the current situation of "City Brain" construction in Bengbu City, combines the useful experience of relevant construction and development at home and abroad, and through comparative analysis, finds that there are problems in the construction of "City Brain" in Bengbu City and puts forward optimized countermeasure suggestions to promote the realization of digital governance in Bengbu City.
Effects of Soil Conditioners on Physical and Chemical Properties of Understory Soil in the Northern Foot of Qinling Mountains
Authors: Li Yanan , Lei Na
Published: May 2024

In view of the common phenomenon of heavy adhesion in the soil under the forest in the northern foot of Qinling Mountains, in order to make more efficient use of the soil under the forest, the random block method was used to set up the experimental field, and EM bacteria and vermiculite were selected as soil conditioners. Two concentration gradients were set up for each conditioner to study the effect of composite soil conditioner on the soil under the forest in the northern foot of Qinling Mountains. The study found that the application of different proportions of soil conditioners has significantly improved and improved the physical and chemical properties of the soil. A good soil structure is more conducive to the growth of bupleurum, in order to provide a theoretical basis for the sustainable management and protection of forest land in Qinling Mountains, ecological restoration, and the correct and rational use of forest space.
O CARÁTER AMBIVALENTE DO PENTECOSTALISMO BRASILEIRO
Authors: Silva Alexandre da
Published: May 2024

O pentecostalismo enquanto descendente direto da Reforma Protestante do século XVI, absorve desse movimento seu caráter plural e difuso. Ele é o que se tornou e o que continua a ser, multifacetado. À exemplo, as centenas se não milhares de denominações pentecostais diferentes que se espalham por todo o nosso Brasil. Como compreender esse movimento? Partindo dessa premissa, somos interpelados pela seguinte questão: qual a constituição e o rosto do pentecostalismo brasileiro, se é que ele possui? A metodologia a ser utilizada será pesquisa e bibliográfica e documental.  O referencial teórico será constituído por autores que pesquisam o tema do pentecostalismo, tais como: Gedeon Alencar, Allan Anderson, Elben César, Paul Freston entre outros. E para analisar o pentecostalismo sobre uma perspectiva ambivalente, Zygmunt Bauman será referência com sua obra. O que encontraremos como resultado dessa pesquisa é um pentecostalismo hibrido, ambivalente e plural, um movimento de várias faces e muitos rostos, que se moldou ao jeito brasileiro de ser, mas, também capaz de influenciar consideravelmente a cultura nacional.
Nghiên cứu sử dụng cát mịn vùng Đồng bằng sông Cửu Long để chế tạo gạch bê tông phục vụ xây dựng cơ sở hạ tầng đô thị
Authors: Hậu Nguyễn Công , Thuỷ Nguyễn Thị Thu
Published: May 2024

Bài báo trình bày kết quả nghiên cứu sử dụng cát mịn (FS) Đồng bằng sông Cửu Long thay thế cát nghiền Đồng Nai để làm gạch bê tông trong xây dựng cơ sở hạ tầng, loại bê tông này có thể đạt cường độ chịu nén cao hơn 50 MPa. Tỷ lệ phối trộn được thiết kế trong 4 trường hợp: bê tông sử dụng 0% FS (M0), bê tông sử dụng 50% FS (MFS50), bê tông sử dụng 75% FS (MFS75), bê tông sử dụng 100% FS (MFS100). Với hàm lượng cát mịn được thay thế ở mức 0, 50, 75 đến 100% so với cốt liệu được thử nghiệm thì bê tông 28 ngày tuổi có cường độ nén từ 70 đến 57 MPa; cường độ kéo đứt từ 6,2 đến 4,2 MPa; tương ứng độ mài mòn của bê tông là 0,42; 0,26; 0,28 và 0,35. Nghiên cứu đề xuất tỷ lệ trộn hợp lý của bê tông là 50% cát mịn Đồng bằng sông Cửu Long và 50% cát nghiền Đồng Nai để đáp ứng đồng thời các tiêu chí về cường độ, độ mài mòn và giá thành.
Ethnomathematical problems in the context of the ethnocultural content of mathematical education
Authors: Shazhdekeyeva Nurgul , Idrissov Salamat , Barsay Bahyt , Myrzasheva Aigul , Akhmurzina Toidyk
Published: May 2024

Relevance. The relevance of this study lies in the fact that modelling the content of ethnomathematical problems determines the range of mathematical competencies and skills, including mathematical reasoning and problem-solving, the cycle of which comprises the corresponding ethnocultural processes. Modelling measures how effectively the state prepares students to use mathematics in all aspects of their personal, civic, and professional life so that they become rational, committed, and thinking members of modern society.Purpose. The purpose of this study is to investigate the modelling of ethnomathematical problems necessary for the successful establishment and development of mathematical competencies of students in grades 5�6.Methodology. These problems include the use of concepts, properties, procedures, and tools to describe, explain, and predict phenomena, which, in turn, help to draw informed conclusions and make informed decisions.Results. The role of ethnomathematical problems in a rapidly changing world driven by new technology and trends, where students in grades 5�6 are creative and actively involved in learning, can be of great importance and enable the children to make non-standard decisions on behalf of themselves or the society they live in. This puts at the forefront the capacity for mathematical thinking, which has always been part of the development of teaching competencies. Modern technological advances also require students to understand the concepts of computational thinking that are part of mathematical skills. The ability of modelling allows enables logical reasoning, as well as allows honestly and convincingly presenting arguments, which are becoming an increasingly important structure of ethnocultural practice in the modern world.Conclusions. The practical significance lies in the definition of mathematical means of folk pedagogy, which allows developing a methodology and technology of teaching to structure and model the content of ethnomathematical tasks.
ICT as a tool to optimise foreign language teaching in the HEI
Authors: Kuzmenko Olena , Kanova Liudmyla , Lisova Yuliia , Papizhuk Valentina , Slonovska Oksana
Published: May 2024

Relevance. In just two decades, our world has changed to such an extent that today's so-called generational differences are no longer limited to different world views and prevailing social relations � today it is often the case that members of the same family, representing different generations, function in very different realities. The generation of the globalisation age has been trained to value completely different values: openness and tolerance, which are shaped by the Internet and open international borders; flexibility and mobility � in work and education; finally, a better understanding of working with technology, above all electronic, information and communication technology, because without this competence it is impossible to imagine functioning in the modern world. This shift necessitates that educators adapt to incorporate modern digital tools to meet the demands of a diverse, technologically integrated world.Purpose. The purpose of the study is to help future teachers become aware of the importance of modernising and constantly developing their professional workshop during their career, and to offer suggestions for improving their lessons by using the achievements and tools of ICT (Information and Communication Technology) in their educational activities and introducing innovations into traditional and well-known teaching and learning methods.Methodology. The following scientific methods were used to write the study: comparison, analysis and synthesis, ascending from the abstract to the concrete.Results. The findings reveal that the incorporation of ICT not only enriches the educational experience but also makes it more dynamic and accessible. Specific ICT tools, such as e-learning platforms and blended learning techniques, have shown significant improvements in engaging students and enhancing the learning process.Conclusions. The practical significance of the work lies in the applied use of the research materials by foreign language teachers, higher education institutions seeking to improve their lectures and by all concerned with such topics.