bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Access in all areas? a round up of developments in market access and health technology assessment: part 4
Authors: Beattie Alice , Treharne Catrin , Ramagopalan Sreeram V
Published: April 2024

In this latest update, we look at recent developments in market access including the pricing agreement of Libmeldy
®
by the Beneluxa Initiative, the financial impact of managed entry agreements in Italy and the restructuring of Agenzia Italiana del Farmaco (AIFA). We also highlight the collaboration between FINOSE and the New Expensive Drug (NED) section of the Nordic Pharmaceutical Forum.
Correlations Between XRD Peak Broadening and Elastic and Plastic Deformation for Mild Steel Sheets Under Tensile Loading
Authors: KHELIFI Sarra , AYAD Abdelhak , BOUMAIZA Ahcène , ROUAG Nadjet , WAGNER Francis , JI Vincent
Published: April 2024

The polycrystalline nature of steel sheets plays a fundamental role in their plastic behavior during forming, especially under complex stresses, such as the deep drawing process. Heterogeneous microstructures cause variable internal stress levels, which strongly impact the material’s macroscopic mechanical properties. X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique can be applied to determine microscopic internal stresses by peaks broadening analysis, which can be related to the degree of cold work at the microscopic level. As deep drawing is a complex deformation mode, an important motivating factor to perform such a study is to find the correlation between anisotropy and XRD peak broadening through tensile deformation tests. Therefore, the initial mechanical state and different deformed states were analysed by in-situ XRD peak broadening under tensile tests in various directions in the rolling plane of mild steel sheet, for both the elastic and plastic deformation domains. The results showed that the XRD peak broadening gives accurate estimations of deformation degrees. In the elastic domain, under realistic assumptions, a relation between the relative variation of peak broadening and the applied stress σ, like Hooke’s law, was obtained by exploiting the linearity between the peak broadening and the elongation measured by the strain gauge. This formula may be used to deduce The Young’s modulus. Interesting empirical relations between peak broadenings, macro deformations and hardness have been also established for the studied sheet in the plastic deformation region. Moreover, XRD peak broadenings were able to characterize the anisotropy of deformation in the rolling plane of the sheet. They are like the anisotropy coefficients in indicating the expected behavior under complex processes such as deep drawing by using ordinary tensile tests.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Persian Version of the Post-Traumatic Symptom Scale: Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analysis
Authors: Razavi Seyyed Mohammad , Haji Alizadeh Kobra , Amirfakhraei Azita
Published: April 2024

Background: Iranian youth encounter numerous stressors, including accidents, suicide, and unemployment, heightening their risk for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It's crucial to assess, diagnose, and treat PTSD in this demographic. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the factor structure and validate the Post-Traumatic Symptom Scale (PTSS). Methods: A cross-sectional approach was employed for the validation of the PTSS in Bandar Abbas, 2022, with a sample of 901 young residents selected via random cluster sampling. Data were gathered using the PTSS and the Mississippi Scale for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (MSPSS). Validation of the scale encompassed content validity, concurrent validity, and factor analysis. Reliability assessments included internal consistency, test-retest, and split-half reliability. The optimal cut-off point was identified through receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and the Youden Index. Results: The PTSS demonstrated robust face and content validity, evidenced by impact factor (1.6 < impact factor < 3.6), content validity ratio (CVR = 0.68 to 0.91), and Content Validity Index (CVI = 0.70 to 0.94). The PTSS's concurrent validity with the MSPSS was positively strong (r = 0.64, P < 0.001). Factor analyses, both exploratory (EFA) and confirmatory (CFA), substantiated a four-factor model of the PTSS, accounting for 56.288% of the variance (19% for arousal and reactivity, 14% for negative alterations in cognitions and mood, 11% for avoidance, and 11% for intrusion). The scale's overall Cronbach's alpha was 0.87, with subscales ranging from 0.77 to 0.88. Test-retest reliability stood at 0.81 (P < 0.01), and split-half reliability at 0.81. The PTSS's optimal cut-off for PTSD diagnosis was 60, delivering a sensitivity of 0.70, specificity of 0.99, and Youden Index of 0.69. Conclusions: The PTSS proves to be a reliable and valid instrument for assessing posttraumatic stress symptoms among young Iranians, offering a useful resource for researchers and practitioners in the prevention and treatment of PTSD.
Does Near Miss Compromise Sexual Function in Reproductive-Aged Women? A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study in Ahvaz, Iran
Authors: Dashtpayma Shohreh , Afshari Poorandokht , Abedi Parvin
Published: April 2024

Background: Maternal near miss (MNM) is defined as any life-threatening event during pregnancy, delivery, or within six weeks after the termination of pregnancy. Objectives: This cross-sectional study aimed to assess sexual function in women with (n = 140) and without MNM (n = 246). Methods: Eligible participants were women with MNM and basic literacy who had given birth at least 8 - 12 weeks prior to the study. Participants were recruited from Imam Khomeini and Taleghani hospitals, while women without MNM were recruited from two public health centers in Ahvaz. Data collection commenced in December 2020 and concluded in March 2021. A demographic questionnaire and the Female Sexual Function Index were used to collect the data. Data were analyzed using independent t-tests, chi-square tests, and multiple linear regression. Results: The predominant mode of delivery among MNM women was cesarean section (70%, P < 0.05). The most common causes of MNM were preeclampsia (41.43%) and placenta accreta (24.29%), followed by hypertension and diabetes (17.86%). Women without MNM reported significantly higher scores in sexual satisfaction (β = 0.355, 95% CI: 0.019, 0.690, P = 0.035), lubrication (β = 0.707, 95% CI: 0.435, 0.980, P < 0.0001), sexual arousal (β = 0.394, 95% CI: 0.116, 0.522, P = 0.007), sexual desire (β = 0.319, 95% CI: 0.116, 0.522, p = 0.002), and total sexual function score (β = 1.768, 95% CI: 0.306, 3.230, P = 0.018). Women who had undergone cesarean section reported lower scores in sexual satisfaction (β = -0.646, 95% CI: -0.983, -0.309, P < 0.0001), orgasm (β = -0.620, 95% CI: -0.965, -0.275, P < 0.0001), sexual arousal (β = -0.473, 95% CI: 0.159, 0.439, P = 0.001), and total sexual function score (β = -3.181, 95% CI: -4.655, -1.707, P < 0.0001). Older women scored significantly lower in all components of sexual function except for pain. Conclusions: The study results indicated that all components of sexual function, except pain, were lower in women with MNM. A significantly higher number of women who had undergone cesarean section experienced MNM and sexual dysfunction. Health policymakers should focus not only on the causes of MNM, particularly cesarean sections, but also on assessing the sexual function of women affected by MNM.
Rencontre entre le SLAC et le comité de la revue COnTEXTES
Authors: COnTEXTES L’équipe , SLAC L’équipe
Published: April 2024

Cet article est un compte-rendu du livre :
Effects of biogenic sulfuric acid on simulated concrete septic tanks
Authors: Gachie Simon Irungu , Makanga Jacob , Karanja Anncarol , Mirara Simon
Published: April 2024

Concrete is the major construction material for infrastructure development. Concrete sewer septic tanks are Constructed using the conventional ordinary portland cement (OPC) and the Portland pozzolana cement (PPC). However, OPC based concrete sewer systems are susceptible to biological, mechanical, and chemical degradation. Degradation of the concrete septic leads to their failure hence imposing tremendous environmental problems. The aftermath is the emergence of sanitation-related diseases. The wastewater from failing septic systems leads to contamination of the groundwater or the surface water resulting in the pollution of drinking water. Therefore, the need to explore other possibilities and potential construction materials to achieve sustainable sanitation is inevitable. The use of Limestone Calcined Clay Cement (LC3) in the construction of degradation-resistant concrete sewer septic systems has not been well explored in Kenya. LC3 concrete is resistant to the deterioration effects of aggressive media such as acids, chlorides, and sulfates. This paper presents experimental performance and findings of LC3 in aggressive media vis a vis OPC. The LC3 was formulated by mixing clinker, Calcined clay, limestone, and gypsum at percentages of 50 %, 30 %, 15 %, and 5 % respectively. Compressive strength, Sorptivity, and weight loss during the wet and dry cycles for both LC3 and OPC were evaluated. Simulated concrete septic tanks made of LC3 and OPC were made by casting cubes at water cement ratio of 0.5 and cured in fresh water at ambient temperature for 28 days. These cubes were passed through a regime of W-D cycles in the 3% concentration of Biogenic sulfuric acid. It was observed that after 28 days of curing OPC cubes had slightly higher compressive strength than LC3. However LC3 concrete cubes are expected to have higher compressive strength than the OPC. Cubes curing time increases due to increased pozzolanic activity. Biogenic sulphuric acid attacks on hydrated cement products cause a decrease in compressive strength. The water absorption profile of LC3 cubes was lower as compared to OPC cubes. In conclusion, LC3 cubes had a high potential of resisting degradation as compared to OPC cubes. LC3 show more impressive performance, hence LC3 It’s a potential binder for use in the construction of sewer system.

Keywords: Septic tank, Sorptivity, compressive strength, wet-dry cycles, biological, mechanical, and chemical degradation, sustainable sanitation, LC3.
Health-Related Quality of Life: differences between Human-Wildlife Interface and Non- Wildlife Zones of Meru County, Kenya
Authors: M'ibui Gervase , Karani Caroline K. , Nkonge Ananias N. , Ireri Edward M.
Published: April 2024

Background: Emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) of animal origin are increasing.  Research, collaboration and surveillance on population health as per the WHO definition of health through one health is necessary to prevent these zoonoses. Comparison of Health Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) between residents at the human-wildlife interfaces and non-wildlife zones can identitify health inequalities for action. We compared the HRQoL of such areas in Meru County, Kenya.
Methods: Data were simultaneously collected using the European Quality of Life Five Dimension, Five Level questionnaire (EQ-5D-5L) in Igembe Central and Tigania West Sub-counties. Associations between the HRQoL variables and the hypothesis were tested through chi statistic and odds ratio respectively.
Results: Participants largely reported no problems in the dimensions of EQ-5D-5L. However, the HRQoL significantly differed between the two populations. Populations at the brink of Meru National Park reported more problems in the worry (anxiety/depression) dimension of the EQ-5D-5L than their counterparts in Tigania West.
Conclusions: Further studies are required to address the cause of anxiety/depression to improve population mental health around the Park.
Comparative awareness on zoonoses between residents at the Human-wildlife Interface Zone and inhabitants of the non-wildlife areas of Meru County, Kenya
Authors: M'ibui Gervase , Karani Caroline K. , Nkonge Ananias N. , Ireri Edward M.
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Introduction: Zoonoses are infections transmitted from vertebrate animals to humans. Persons with low knowledge, exposure to wildlife or domestic animals are at risk of zoonoses. Research, surveillance and response through One Health framework is necessary for prevention. We compared the knowledge on zoonoses between residents at the wildlife-interface of Meru National Park, and non-wildlife areas of Tigania West Sub County, Meru Kenya.
Methods: Data were simultaneously collected using a structured questionnaire in both zones and compared. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data for differences between variables in the two areas.Results: The non-wildlife zone residents of Tigania West Sub-County had statistically significantly better knowledge of zoonoses than their counterparts next to Meru National Park: χ² (1, N=525) =84.965, p< .001.
Conclusion: The scanty knowledge on zoonoses of residents of Igembe Central posed greater risk of zoonoses because their proximity to the wildlife conservancy. Awareness creation through one health strategy is necessary as a deterrent measure.
Analysis of managerial roles of secondary school Principals in implementing Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) in Tigania West Sub-county, Meru, Kenya
Authors: Mukiri Jacinta , Njati Ibuathu Charles , Thuranira Mercy N.
Published: April 2024

The study sought to analyze roles of secondary school principal in implementing Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) in Tigania west Sub County. The objectives of the study were; determining leadership skills possessed by principals in secondary schools; establishing availability of resources used by principals; examining how principals involve teachers in monitoring and evaluation; and establishing ways in which principals are involving parents in implementation of competency based curriculum. The study was conducted using descriptive survey design. The target population in the study was 867 participants; 51 principals, 255 HoDs, 510 teachers, and 51 parents in the study area. The sample size of 10 principals, 30 HoDs, 60 teachers and 10 parents were selected using Yamene sample size tables. The test instruments used to collect data were questionnaires, observation checklists and interviews. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics while qualitative data was coded analyzed and interpreted using statistical packages for social sciences version 20.0 and summarized into frequency tables, pie charts and bar charts. The response rate was 98.5%. The findings of the study revealed that; principals use democratic and transformational leadership styles which inspire teachers to interact with other teachers; enhance cluster setting of exams, marking and attending workshops together which enhance assessment of learners. In addition, parents are involved in junior secondary school because since CBC had not started in senior Secondary schools. From the findings, the study concluded that, 80% of the secondary school principals are not ready to implement the Competency Based Curriculum due to resource constraints and in-service training of teachers. The study also found that, parents are not much involved on the implementation of Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) in the secondary schools in Tigania West Sub- County in Kenya
Assessing usability of University websites in meeting the expectations of students: a survey of literature
Authors: Imathiu Gitonga , Mary Mwadulo
Published: April 2024

University websites are gateways to display resources offered by an institution (Mentes, 2012). As such first impression, attractiveness, controllability, helpfulness, efficiency and learnability as defined by Website analysis and measurement inventory (WAMMI) (Jabar et al., 2013) is critical in the design of websites. Unfortunately, most Universities Websites design are often driven by technology, organizational structure, or institution's objectives, rather than by its usability from the perspective of students (Undu & Akuma, 2018). This reduces chances of converting a prospective student into a current student after failing to get inquiries into enrollment opportunities in the university. To increase the usability of University websites it is necessary to increase the visibility and accessibility of all website related content. This result into the need of evaluating university websites a process that is very vague and a times usually unknown to most developers, which adversely then impacts the student experience when visiting such websites.  To address this problem, standard usability metrics need to be considered to examine the university websites to analyze whether these websites are able to meet the requirements of customer number one who is the student. These metrics comprise of ease of use (simplicity), design (layout), navigation, organization, communication and content. Qualitative and quantitative approaches were used by different researchers to evaluate processes involved by analyzing questionnaires responded to by students after browsing several university websites. In addition, various technological innovations aimed at increasing and improving the web presence were used which involved re-designing of websites using the latest state of the art technologies so as to improve its usability as well as use of automated tools like Web Accessibility checker, HERA and WAVE. After reviewing different literature a valuable insight on key Usability, attributes for websites are noted to be of essence in designing website to meet students’ expectations.
Influence of Socio-economic factors on utilization of sanitation facilities by women in Mukuru Kwa Reuben informal settlement in Nairobi County
Authors: Kariuki Teresia Mucia , Kagendo Dorothy , Kaimuri Maryjoy
Published: April 2024

Accessing basic sanitation services is still a challenge in slums and sanitation needs of some groups specifically women at times remain unmet. This study assessed the socio-economic factors that influence the utilization of sanitation facilities by women at Mukuru Kwa Reuben, Kenya. The study targeted women aged 18 and above who consented. The Sample size was 395 women at Mukuru Kwa Reuben. Clustered and simple random sampling techniques were utilized to select the study participants. The data collection tools were questionnaires, focus group discussions and observation. Descriptive and inferential statistics were utilized for quantitative data analysis. Study findings are presented in tables. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically and presented in form of narratives. Results from the analysis showed that majority of the most common sanitation facility at Mukuru kwa Reuben was container based (51.0%). The socioeconomic factors that significantly influenced the utilization of sanitation facilities by women were cultural beliefs (r=-0.613, p=0.000), that had a strong negative association with utilization, education level (r=0.593, p=0.000), had a strong positive association with utilization, and economic status (r=0.466, p=0.000), had a moderate positive association with utilization. This study highlights persistent challenges in slums, particularly for women's access to sanitation. Socio-economic factors significantly influence sanitation facility utilization by women in Mukuru Kwa Reuben, Kenya. There is  need for holistic interventions to address beliefs, education, and economic status for improved sanitation practices.
influence of economic factors on feacal emptying, conveyance and disposal:
Authors: Owuor Silvanus Mark , Mukiri Kirimi Lilian , Mburugu Kirema Nkanata , Eliud Grace Kasiva
Published: April 2024

Safe management of faecal waste is one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which envisions safe sanitation for all. However, although efforts to improve sanitation conditions in slums have been made, faecal emptying, conveyance and disposal still remain a challenge endangering the health of the public. The study examined the influence of economic factors on faecal emptying, conveyance and disposal in on-site sanitation facilities in Meru slums. A convergent design with a mixed methods approach was adopted. Quantitative data was collected using structured questionnaires from a sample of 228 household heads selected using cluster and proportionate simple random sampling techniques. Correlation and regression analysis was carried out to ascertain the association between emptying, conveyance and disposal of faecal waste and the economic factors. Qualitative data was gathered using focus group discussion participants with eight (8) who included four (4) pit operators, 3 household heads and 1 Public Health Officer (PHO) and results analyzed thematically. Findings showed that only 31% of slum dwellers emptied latrine pits and that manual emptying was more common (84%) than mechanical emptying because of its cost efficiency, reliability and the effectiveness in handling plastics, glasses, metal pieces, diapers and sanitary pads contained in pits. Increased cost constrained faecal emptying, conveyance, and disposal (r=0.499, p-value=0.000). Residents who were able to pay for faecal handling services were more likely to practice hygienic faecal emptying, conveyance, and disposal (r=0.524, p-value=0.000). Low level of income for majority of slum dwellers influenced the design of the latrines adopted. Emptying faeces from poorly designed pit latrines was more expensive due to operators’ safety concerns. The study concluded that the inability to meet the costs associated with faecal emptying, conveyance and disposal services facilitated poor sanitation status in slums. There is need to sensitize the slum community on the benefits of practicing safe management of faecal waste. The study recommended development of government policies to regulate mechanical emptying conveyance and disposal of faecal matter.
Review of literature on Recommender Models for career pathway selection in Competency-Based Education
Authors: Kainyu Fridah , Mwadulo Mary , Munialo Samson
Published: April 2024

In Competency-based Education (CBE), learners acquire skills and knowledge through a personalized and flexible learning path, based on their prior knowledge and skills. To support learners in selecting career pathways that match their interests and competencies, recommender models are widely used. Recommender models (RM) analyze learners' competencies, interests and goals to suggest career pathways suited for them. This paper reviews literature by analyzing recommender models used for career pathway selection in CBE through desk study. First, it explains the concepts of CBE. Secondly, it discusses the types of recommender models used for career pathway selection in CBE. Lastly, it discusses various recommender models developed for career pathway selection highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. Findings from the review reveals that hybrid recommender model is popularly employed for career pathway selection compared to content-based, knowledge-based, and collaborative filtering recommender models as it gives a higher level of accuracy in the recommendation. Overall, this review paper contributes to the growing body of literature on recommender models for career pathway selection in CBE. In addition, it provides valuable insights for practitioners, researchers and emphasizes the need for future research to address the challenges associated with recommender models for career pathway selection in CBE.
Ethical practice and Human Resource performance in Nairobi City County government, Kenya
Authors: Wanja Eunice , Thuranira Simon , Kubaison Simon
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to examine the relationship between  ethical practice and human resource performance in Nairobi City County Government, Kenya.The study was built on  Stakeholder Theory.The study's target population comprised 46 employees, including  principal human resource officers, administrative officers, and human resource officers, based at City Hall, Nairobi. Data was collected through a semi-structured questionnaire. Data analysis was done using SPSS software, and key findings revealed that the county government’s  application of accountability  and ethical conduct positively impacts human resource performance. A positive correlation coefficient of 0.582 indicates a significant and positive linear relationship between ethical practices and human resource performance. Ethical guidelines and policies play a vital role in shaping the ethical culture within county governments and enhancing employee morale and job satisfaction.Ethical conduct should thus be at the forefront of the county government’s operations.The study roots for increased emphasis on competency-based hiring practices.
Pathogen inactivation from faecal waste via black soldier fly treatment
Authors: Mumali Alice , Riungu Joy , Kagendo Dorothy , Oyoo Valary
Published: April 2024

Sustainable development goal 6.2 advocates for increasing access to equitable and adequate hygiene and sanitation for all by 2030, and its indicator target is to raise the proportion of the population using safely managed sanitation. On the contrary, it is approximated that only 54% of people globally have access to safely managed sanitation, while 2.4 billion lack access. Recent innovations have however seen the development of low-cost technologies that can be customized depending on the region. The container based sanitation (CBS) is one of the options for safely managing the waste compared to conventional sewerage systems that are expensive. However, the need for emptying and transportation of filled fecal sludge (FS) containers on daily basis, leads to high operational costs and increases the operational exposures risks to fecal pathogens amongst the CBS operators. The study determined the performance efficiency of Black Soldier Fly Larvae in inactivation of E.coli via seeded container based sanitation- Urine diverting dry toilet model. Sample was transported to the lab for analysis of E.coli after every 3 days from Seeded households and samples from Non seeded households in replication. One gram of sample was used in serial dilution up to factor 5.The inoculum was plated in Tryptone Bile Glucuronic (TBX) agar for enumeration according to manufacturer’s instructions. Plates with 30-300 colonies were considered viable for counting. The study used statistical analysis IBM SPSS software from the sets of experiments. The E.coli (CFU/ml) mean varied between 7.3±1.3 and 10.1±2.8 for Seeded treatments while non-seed treatments ranged between 7.5±1.6 and 10.4±3.2. A significant variation occurred between the two treatments at p<0.05(SH and NH). Findings from this study showed that there was reduction of E.coli coliforms with Bioconversion of organic waste using the BSF technology has been noted to reduce the E.coli load and reducing the volume of the bio-waste. Sanitation policy makers can apply the findings of this study in formulation of policies on safe handling and disposal of fecal matter from onsite sanitation facilities.
Tingkat Kerapatan Mangrove dan Perubahan Garis Pantai Tahun 2016-2022 Menggunakan Citra Satelit Sentinel-2A di Kecamatan Bungus Teluk Kabung
Authors: Kurniawan Rizky , Triyatno Triyatno
Published: April 2024

This study aims to, (1) Know the distribution and extent of mangrove land in Bungus Teluk Kabung District, (2) Know the density of mangroves in Bungus Teluk Kabung District, (3) Know the changes in coastline in Bungus Teluk Kabung District, (4) Know the relationship between mangrove density with changes in coastline in Bungus Teluk Kabung District. The research method used is descriptive quantitative, with data presented in the form of tables and maps. Based on the results of the study, (1) Changes in mangrove land area in 2016-2022 amounted to 84.04 ha to 94.39 ha spread in the sub-district of Teluk Kabung Tengah and Teluk Kabung Selatan. (2) The level of mangrove density in 2016 and 2022 is equally dominated by the density level of tight and then followed by the level of very tight, moderate, sparse and very sparse, where the tight level in 2016 is 81.57 ha in 2022 is 80.78 ha. (3) Shoreline changes in 2016-2022 are divided into 5 sectors. (4) The presence of mangroves does not significantly affect the occurrence of shoreline changes in the form of abrasion.
Comparative Analysis Of Performance Of Teacher Recipients And Non-Recipients Of Incentives In The LPQ Coordination Environment Agency, Kedu Sub-District, Temanggung District
Authors: Fahrub Abdul Wahab , Shifah Akhida Layinatush
Published: April 2024

Teachers are an important element in implementing educational programs through learning activities in formal and nonformal education. Giving an incentive of IDR 100,000 per month is a form of government attention to teachers in the hope of improving their performance. The government distributes this incentive in collaboration with the Ministry of Religion at the regency level. With this nominal, the teachers remain enthusiastic and teach; even teachers do not receive incentives but remain enthusiastic in teaching students every day. The purpose of this study was to determine the performance of the teachers and the significance of differences in the performance of incentive recipients and non-incentive recipients within the Coordinating for Qur'an Education Institutions of the Kedu subdistrict. The research approach uses mixed method research (MMR), namely research that combines qualitative and quantitative forms with data collection techniques through questionnaires, interviews, documentation, and observation. The research population is the teachers in the Coordinating for Qur'an Education Institutions of Kedu subdistrict with a sample of 30 people. The performance of the teachers in the Coordinating for Qur'an Education Institutions of Kedu subdistrict is generally good based on seven aspects of assessment: teaching preparation, being fair (non-discriminatory), giving awards to students, applying discipline to students, applying appropriate learning, recognizing students in situations, and have exemplary actions. Good performance is influenced by several factors, namely ability, motivation, and individual, and environmental factors. Evidenced by the results of the analysis using the independent sample t-test with the value of count on the assumed equal variances obtained a value of 0.271 and for the sig p-value of 0.353 > 0.05 so it can be concluded that there is no significant difference between the performance of incentive recipient and non-recipient teachers.
 
Keywords: Teacher Performance, Incentives, Qur'an Educational Institutions
Religious Moderation Through Aqidah And Akhlak Learning In Islamic Elementary School
Authors: Isti'anah Sheifi Zahrotul , Husnah Barizatul , Nadlir Nadlir
Published: April 2024

Religious moderation through learning aqidah morals at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah is an effort to form a young generation who has a balanced understanding of religion, is tolerant, and can interact with people across religions. In this research, researchers used a library study method which analyzed data in the form of text directly. Madrasah Ibtidaiyah, as a basic Islamic educational   institution, has a key role in forming children's character and moderate understanding of religion. In the context of learning moral beliefs at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah, religious moderation is an important foundation for forming a young generation that is tolerant and capable of establishing harmonious relationships with various levels of society. By involving teachers, curriculum, and the school environment, Madrasah Ibtidaiyah can become an educational institution that promotes religious moderation effectively and plays an important role in building a more inclusive and harmonious society.
 
Keywords: Religious Moderation, Islamic Religious Education
Educandy Website As An Evaluation Tool In Learning Tarkib Nahwu Grade V Students
Authors: Harsita Destia , Triwibowo Muhammad , Huda Miftahul , Machmudah Umi
Published: April 2024

This research aims to find out 1). steps for using the Educandy Website as a tool for evaluating Tarkib Nahwu learning 2). Effectiveness of the Educandy Website as an evaluation tool for teaching and learning Nahwu. This research uses a mixed method, namely a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods. The data collection techniques used are documentation and questionnaires. The results of this research show the steps for using the Educandy Website as an evaluation tool for teaching and learning nahwu, which is supported by three features, namely words, machtingmatchingand quiz questions. Meanwhile, learning Arabic through the Educandy website can support the Tarkib Nahwu learning process very effectively. This is proven by the questionnaire distributed via Google Forms which received a score of 80%.
 
Keywords: Evaluation, Educandy Website, Tarkib Nahwu
Islamic Education Methods For The Millennial Generation In The Perspective Of The Quran And Hadith
Authors: Jahroh Fatimah
Published: April 2024

Educational methods are fundamental for achieving learning outcomes, also for creating active and effective learning, and encouraging students so they can explore and develop their talents and abilities. Starting from intelligence, personality, morals, and skills that are beneficial for oneself and society. This research uses qualitative research methods through literature study with a descriptive-narrative approach and data collection techniques in the form of reading texts related to the required data. The collected data is classified into sub-discussions and analyzed using content analysis techniques, then arranged descriptively narratively into a systematic article. This research aims to describe what Islamic education methods are suitable for the millennial generation from the perspective of the Koran and Hadith. This article produces the result that Islamic education methods are still very valid and can be applied at all times to anyone and at any time by the Koran and hadith. The results of this research show that the Islamic education method is a method of regular and systematic education by what is taught in the Islamic religion which is based on the Koran and hadith. And this Islamic education method is also very suitable for millennial generation children, such as the exemplary method (al-uswah al-hasanah), the lecture method, the discussion/dialogue method, and the targhib and tarhib methods.
 
Keywords: Islamic Education Methods, Millennial Generation, in the Perspective of the Alquran and Hadith
Improving optical fruit sorting by non-destructive determination of quality parameters affecting wine quality
Authors: Lafontaine M. , Freund M.
Published: April 2024

The scope of this project is finding suitable parameters correlated with grape and wine composition to be implemented as a quality criteria to sort harvested grapes. Grape quality is not only defined by sugar concentration but by a complex equilibrium of parameters depending on the type of wine to be produced. Moreover, measuring berry composition is not always linked to the amount that will finally be extracted into wine. Sorting the berry according to their density and berry size showed that measuring berry size could be another good tool to segregate groups. It was possible to relate berry color with sugar accumulation and anthocyanin accumulation until berry coloration process (veraison). However, after veraison, berry color was not a suitable parameter anymore to describe differences in maturity. It was also possible to correlate berry color with aroma precursors in Riesling white grapes, showing that VIS measurements in white grapes could indeed be a possible way to sort the berries according to quality. A multiparametric optical sensor, Multiplex® (Force A, France) showed that change in simple fluorescence ratio in green excitation was correlated to sugar concentration in white berries. Two ratios showed promising results: Firstly, the NBI G indicating amino acid in berries and juice then secondly the ANTH G correlating red color pigments (anthocyanin) concentration. This will have potential to determine quality parameters and in combination with user-friendly interfaces will improve grape sorting devices.
Characterisation of materials in the millimeter wave frequency region for industrial applications
Authors: Demming Matthias , Nüssler Dirk , Krebs Christian , Klimek Jasmin
Published: April 2024

The millimeter wave region up to the lower THz region offers a good penetration ability for many dielectric materials which are in use today. Especially for the quality control of foods within its package, impurities can be clearly identified as long as the package is free from any metallic material. Another field of interest is the quality of welded-, brazed- and soldered joints. The present paper describes the detection and characterization of different materials under test by two different measurement systems. An vector network analyzer and a “Stand Alone MilliMeter wave Imager” called SAMMI developed by Fraunhofer FHR. For the characterization the different materials will be detect with a clustering algorithm in connection with the optimization of the measured data with regard to the problem of ambiguous phase values, called Phase Unwrapping. The permittivity of the different clusters are determined by a reconstruction algorithm.
Hydrogen content of CeCl3-doped sodium alanate powder samples measured in-situ by ATR-FTIR-spectroscopy and gravimetry during desorption
Authors: Franke Ingo , Bauer Hans-Dieter , Scheppat Birgit
Published: April 2024

For future applications of solid-state hydrogen tanks a reliable method for hydrogen content monitoring is necessary. The chemical reactions of a sodium hydride/alanate system during hydrogen desorption were followed in-situ using two methods in parallel: First, changes of the FTIR spectra due to the crystal structure phase changes were recorded. Second, precision weight measurements were carried out. To do so, a set-up consisting of a FTIR spectrometer, equipped with a special sample chamber for ATR measurements, combined with a high precision balance was developed. The results presented in this paper were obtained on a self-prepared CeCl3-doped sodium alanatesample. Absorbed weight percentage of hydrogen and spectroscopic data correspond to each other in a reproducible way. Moreover, activated and non-activated materials show very similar behavior.
Household Activities and Greenhouse Gas Emissions Value: Lessons from a Neglasari Household Survey
Authors: Alfiana Riyyun , Hidayat Aceng , Irfany Mohammad Iqbal , Haq Daffa Aqomal
Published: April 2024

The escalating threat of global warming stems from greenhouse gas emissions resulting from various household activities, profoundly impacting climate change. This study delves into Neglasari Village, Bogor Regency, scrutinizing emissions' correlation with household consumption. Predominantly focusing on carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, emissions arise from electricity, cooking and oil fuel usage, waste, agriculture, and livestock farming. Objectives encompass elucidating and computing greenhouse gas emissions, discerning influential factors, and gauging their economic ramifications. Employing IPCC's 2006 emission valuation, multiple linear regression, descriptive analysis, and carbon economic metrics, findings reveal Neglasari Village's emissions total 1,247,364.80 kg CO₂-e/month, averaging 411.40 kg CO₂-e/month per household. Key influencers identified are household income and house ownership status. The calculated carbon economic value stands at IDR138,646/month per household, aggregating to IDR421,809,752/month across Neglasari Village, fortifying the imperative for sustainable practices.
Hamilton's Copyright and the Election of 1800
Authors: Narechania Tejas N.
Published: April 2024

Copyright is, perhaps surprisingly, a regular fixture of electoral campaigns. Candidates deploy copyright to obscure prior policy statements. Local governments assert copyright over recordings of public meetings to protect incumbents. And campaign committees have used copyright to prevent counter-advertisements, which respond to (by embedding) their adversaries’ ads. Are these examples of illegal copyright infringement or protected political speech? The Supreme Court has balanced copyright and First Amendment interests by looking both to copyright law’s internal doctrinal limits (e.g., fair use) and to the “historical record.” But, in political contexts, the doctrine is sparing: candidates for public office, weighing the pressures of campaigning against the costs of copyright litigation, tend to prefer self-censorship— undermining protections for political speech. The historical record may help. This Article highlights an episode— overlooked until now—that sheds new light on the speech-copyright equilibrium. Drawing on a mix of primary and secondary sources outside the legal literature, it tells the story of Alexander Hamilton’s secret, copyrighted pamphlet aimed at unseating John Adams from the top of the Federalist Party—secret, that is, until it leaked to Hamilton’s political opposition. Viewed in its entirety, this episode may reflect a shared—by both Hamilton and his adversaries—if contested understanding that favors a full and fair discussion of such matters of public importance, even if copyright’s rules might otherwise restrain such speech. This political precedent may thus have implications for the contemporary controversies in which candidates deploy copyright (and related speech restraints) to squelch public scrutiny over their prior statements regarding, say, abortion rights. And so this Article concludes by describing how the public governance interests in such political speech should trump copyright’s restraints.
A new role of cooperation under economic sanctions as seen by residents of the Kaliningrad region
Authors: Frolova Elena V. , Rogach Olga V.
Published: April 2024

The current economic crisis conditions call for a search for new mechanisms to maintain the population’s well-being. Within this setting, cooperation may be considered a priority form of entrepreneurial activity, enabling the consolidation of financial resources and reducing business costs. This article aims to assess the potential of consumer cooperation in the Kaliningrad region under anti-Russian sanctions. The authors analyse the features of cooperation development within the territory and investigate the demands and expectations of the local populace. The principal method employed in the study is a survey of residents of the Kaliningrad region (N = 481), with its results strongly indicating that conditions for a renaissance of cooperative economic models have emerged in the Russian exclave. The region’s residents tend to express positive attitudes towards cooperation, drawing a link between economically challenging conditions and opportunities for cooperative development. Moreover, amongst respondents with personal or vicarious experience of cooperation, a substantially higher proportion assess cooperative practices positively. Yet, the deficit of interpersonal trust places a serious limitation on the development of cooperation. It is concluded that the economic crisis has shifted the focus of the region’s population’s expectations from social interests (collaborations with like-minded individuals) to undertakings aimed at increasing material well-being. Therefore, expectations of participating in cooperative activities are primarily associated with the opportunity to start one’s own business and increase personal income.
Advancements in Crime Prevention and Detection: From Traditional Approaches to Artificial Intelligence Solutions
Authors: Apene Oghenevovwero Zion , Blamah Nachamada Vachaku , Aimufua Gilbert Imuetinyan Osaze
Published: April 2024

Crime prevention and detection are critical components of public safety in any nation. Traditionally, crime prevention and detection approaches relied on human intuition and limited data, resulting in reactive and resource-intensive methods. However, recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) offer a paradigm shift, enabling proactive, data-driven approaches. This study explores the evolution from conventional crime prevention and detection methods to cutting-edge AI solutions. It employs a literature survey, local observation, and global news approach to examine the current state of the art in AI-driven approaches. Traditional crime prevention methods, such as neighbourhood watch programs, random stop-and-search initiatives, and foot patrols, are examined alongside technological approaches, such as surveillance systems, crime mapping, and geographical profiling. These conventional techniques are tedious and time-consuming leading to inefficiency. Findings from the study revealed that AI has the potential to revolutionize crime prevention and detection through its subfields, such as machine learning and computer vision. Machine learning algorithms can process large amounts of data to forecast potential criminal activity, thus transforming law enforcement operations. Also, computer vision models can utilise visual data from surveillance cameras and other sources to analyse, identify, and respond to crimes. The study recommends the integration of AI into law enforcement agencies for crime prevention and detection to transform societal security. In addition, it emphasizes the need for further research in this domain. The study also recommends the development of an efficient framework and model for crime detection based on deep learning to enhance public safety.
rOpenSci News Digest, April 2024
Authors:   The rOpenSci Team
Published: April 2024

Dear rOpenSci friends, it’s time for our monthly news roundup! You can read this post on our blog.Now let’s dive into the activity at and around rOpenSci!rOpenSci HQ Coworking Read all about coworking! Join us for social coworking & office hours monthly on first Tuesdays!Hosted by Steffi LaZerte and various community hosts.Everyone welcome.No RSVP needed.Consult our Events page to find your local time and how to join.
Energy efficiency of a hybrid road train with an active semi-trailer for road construction work
Authors: Vasiliev Alexey , Dobretsov Roman , Voinash Sergey , Syromiatnykov Yurii , Orekhovskaya Alexandra , Zagidullin Ramil , Sokolova Viktoriia
Published: April 2024

The previous experience of creating experimental road trains with an active trailer and semi-trailer is analyzed against the background of modern technological capabilities of transport engineering and the logistical needs of modern construction. The expediency of implementing the concept of a road train with an active trailer based on modern electromechanical technologies is shown. The purpose of the study is to increase the energy efficiency of road trains used in construction for transporting long-length objects (beams, piles, bridge trusses, panels, etc.) by using an active trailer link with an electromechanical drive. The study solves the problem of modeling the movement of road trains with passive and active semi-trailers and comparing their energy efficiency and safety indicators. The methods of modeling the movement of cars and road trains, characteristic of the theory of movement of transport vehicles, approaches of theoretical mechanics and applications of differential calculus, applied numerical modeling in the SimuLink environment are used. A mathematical model has been obtained that allows calculating the energy efficiency of a road train when using passive (towed) and active semi-trailers. The cycle of the road train movement has been developed and tested for use in severe road conditions (construction with weak road infrastructure, forest complex, transportation of special cargo). The implementation of the computational model by means of the SimuLink software package is proposed. Based on the simulation results, conclusions are made on the energy efficiency and safety of road trains with an active trailer link with an electromechanical transmission.