bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Voices of Academia: Perceptions of Exam Question Formats among Students and Faculty
Authors: Elbilgahy Amal Ahmed , Alzahrani Hayat Ali , Mersal Fathia Ahmed , Alenezi Ibrahim Naif , Abu-Negm Lobna Mohamed
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Evaluation of students is a crucial aspect of teaching and learning in higher education, particularly in nursing education. Effective assessment methods should evaluate cognitive, psychomotor, and communication skills while promoting professionalism. This study aimed to examine the perceptions of nursing students and faculty members regarding their preferences for assessment methods, specifically comparing Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and essay questions, at the Faculty of Nursing, Northern Border University in 2022-2023. Methods: A cross-sectional comparative design was utilized, involving 80 nursing students from both genders and 53 faculty members. Data was collected through self-administered questionnaires assessing demographic information, preferences, and perceived challenges related to assessment methods. Results: The study revealed a significant preference for MCQs, with 94.1% of students favoring them over essay questions (9.4%), and 88.7% of faculty preferring MCQs as well, although they leaned towards short essays and case studies. Post-intervention, perceptions of assessment types improved markedly; poor perceptions of MCQs decreased from 69.4% to 22.4% (p < 0.001), and for essay questions from 74.1% to 12.9% (p < 0.001). Training in question formulation was significantly correlated with improved perceptions of MCQs (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Both groups favored MCQs for their ease and reliability, while faculty expressed interest in integrating diverse assessment methods to enhance learning outcomes and evaluate student competencies effectively.
TANGGUNG JAWAB NEGARA DALAM BANTUAN HUKUM BAGI MASYARAKAT MISKIN: MEMASTIKAN AKSES KEADILAN DAN KESETARAAN DI INDONESIA
Authors: Maemanah
Published: February 2025

Pemberian bantuan hukum kepada masyarakat kurang mampu di Indonesia menjadi isu penting dalam rangka mencapai keadilan sosial, sesuai dengan prinsip persamaan di depan hukum (Equality Before The Law) yang tercantum dalam UUD 1945. Negara berperan untuk membuka akses hukum bagi kelompok rentan agar mereka mendapatkan pembelaan hukum yang setara. Dalam konteks ini, Undang-Undang Nomor 16 Tahun 2011 tentang Bantuan Hukum menjadi landasan pemberian layanan hukum gratis kepada individu yang tidak mampu. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode hukum normatif untuk menganalisis peran dan tanggung jawab negara dalam memastikan akses bantuan hukum kepada masyarakat miskin. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, dapat disimpulkan bahwa negara melalui hukum dan lembaga bantuan hukum berperan penting dalam memberikan keadilan bagi masyarakat kurang mampu. Meskipun sistem hukum Indonesia telah mengadopsi prinsip due process, penerapannya masih menghadapi tantangan, terutama dalam memastikan bahwa semua lapisan masyarakat, termasuk mereka yang miskin dan rentan, dapat mengakses bantuan hukum secara efektif. Oleh karena itu, tanggung jawab negara dalam memenuhi hak-hak dasar seperti akses keadilan dan perlindungan hukum bagi masyarakat miskin harus terus diperkuat, dengan memperhatikan prinsip-prinsip hak asasi manusia yang diakui secara internasional.
Peningkatan Kompetensi Penelitian Kuantitatif Mahasiswa Manajemen melalui Pelatihan Partial Least Squares (PLS) dalam Penyusunan Skripsi
Authors: Edwar Rizka Cintya , Landjang Xenia Irene Sandy , Mangopo Yuni Riskita , Damanik Lisa Gresti Sella
Published: February 2025

-This community service program aims to improve quantitative research competency of Management students through Partial Least Squares (PLS) training in writing theses. Using the PAR-ADDIE blended learning model, this program involved 120 participants with a real case study of PT. Ritel Indonesia Jaya. The results showed a significant increase: the post-test score increased by 35.8 points (from 42.5 to 78.3) with knowledge retention of 71.4% after 3 months. The implementation of PLS in 30 theses resulted in a convergent validity (AVE>0.6) of 92% and a composite reliability of 0.85. The economic impact is reflected in the ROI of 214%, which was obtained through: 18% increase in customer retention rate of industry partners (+Rp8.2 billion/year), Research cost savings of Rp1.3 billion, and Operational efficiency of Rp950 million. The formation of a community of practitioners (153 active members) and 28 new case studies in 4 months indicate an undesirable program. Key challenges include the adaptation of SmartPLS 4.2 technology and the need for hybrid data integration. The program demonstrates the effectiveness of triple helix collaboration in bridging academia-industry, while providing a replicable model for data-driven methodological capacity development in higher education
The effect of Phase Composition on the Photocatalytic Activity of Cu₂O/CuO/Cu Composites for Methylene Blue Photodegradation
Authors: Rizqi Maulana Mokhamad Ali , Aisyaturridha  , Bimo TriGoutomo  , Amir Mahmud
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the influence of phase composition on Cu₂O/CuO/Cu composites for the degradation methylene blue (MB) under visible light irradiation. Two types of composites, Cu₂O-rich and Cu₂O-poor, were successfully synthesized through electrodeposition method. The results showed that the Cu₂O-rich composite exhibited photocatalytic activity, as indicated by a maximum photocurrent of 13 mA/cm² and the highest optimized MB photodegradation efficiency. This enhanced performance is due to the high Cu₂O phase content, which generates a higher photocurrent density, thereby accelerating the redox reaction in the MB degradation.
Application of the Traditional Snakes and Ladders Game as an Indonesian Language Learning Media to Train Students' Language Skills in Elementary Schools
Authors: Fahrunnisah Fadiah
Published: February 2025

In learning Indonesian, there are four good language skills that every student must have. Good language skills are one of the most important things in everyday life, so students should not only be taught about the theory conveyed through teacher explanations, it can make the learning atmosphere boring and the learning atmosphere less active, but they should also Teachers can make learning and learning models more effective so that they master, understand and can help train their language skills. Researchers here use literature study methods which require a deep thought process and insight. Namely by collecting data specifically through gathering information from books, trusted written sources related to the topic being researched, journals, and scientific publications. The data source used was obtained indirectly. One example of innovation that can help Indonesian education is using simple learning media based on Snakes and Ladders. The Snakes and Ladders learning media is a learning media that is neatly arranged and in its use it uses the Snakes and Ladders game pattern in general, making it easy for students to adapt to this learning media. Making Snakes and Ladders learning media can be an alternative in the learning process so that it can create a teaching and learning atmosphere that is more varied, more enthusiastic, and more active. One of the learning media is Snakes and Ladders, which can be used in the teaching and learning process to train students' abilities in their language skills in Indonesian language lessons. This game can be a forum or place that students can use to play and learn.
(L)GBT
Authors: Leite Washington Batista , Silva Maria Luiza Correa da
Published: February 2025

As relações lésbicas estão constantemente sendo marginalizadas, seja pela sociedade ou até pelas pautas do movimento LGBT. Consequentemente, mulheres lésbicas têm muito mais dificuldade de acessar espaços e conquistar direitos, se estendendo, inclusive, para a representatividade de suas relações nas artes e na indústria. Filmes que se propõem a relatar mulheres lésbicas normalmente são carregados de estereótipos e feitos por e para uma gama de espectadores heterossexuais. Esse trabalho intenta analisar o filme “Desejo proibido”, de 2000, que é um compilado de curtas-metragens sobre relações entre mulheres, e observar como eles captam as dificuldades dessas relações e falam abertamente sobre elas, não só focando nas tragédias que permeiam essas histórias, mas abordando, principalmente, sobre o amor e afeto que sobrevive nelas.
LIBERALISMO CLÁSSICO E CAPITAL HUMANO
Authors: Costa Taís Regina , Almeida Sara
Published: February 2025

O liberalismo clássico e o capital humano são duas teorias que, embora distintas, possuem a capacidade de se complementar de forma significativa, exercendo um papel fundamental no desenvolvimento de uma sociedade, com a premissa de que indivíduos não tenham as suas liberdades privadas ou negligenciadas, especialmente a liberdade de acesso à educação. Neste sentido, com base em uma pesquisa bibliográfica, propõe-se contextualizar os processos históricos dessas duas correntes teóricas e explorar sua relação e legitimação no desenvolvimento econômico, humano e social de um país. Enquanto o liberalismo estabelece os princípios e as instituições que promovem a liberdade individual e a prosperidade econômica, o capital humano fortalece as capacidades técnicas, cognitivas e intelectuais. Quando combinados, esses elementos podem criar uma base sólida para o desenvolvimento humano e a melhoria do bem-estar coletivo. Compreende-se que o capital humano desempenha um papel crucial na implementação e no sucesso de uma economia de mercado baseada nos ideais do liberalismo clássico, cujo fulcro reside na salvaguarda da Liberdade Individual.
Nuevos códigos lingüísticos, en el comportamiento comunicacional juvenil: retos y oportunidades en la era digital hacia la transformación del lenguaje
Authors: Estacio Gonzales Antony Ariel , Bonilla Peñafiel Valeria Sofía , Vasquez Niama Diana Carolina
Published: February 2025

La presente investigación analiza los nuevos códigos lingüísticos y su incidencia en el comportamiento comunicacional de los jóvenes al utilizar el lenguaje en las redes sociales y mensajes de texto a menudo es más informal que la expresión utilizado en situaciones formales. La metodología empleada es descriptiva porque permitió detallar el fenómeno o situación en particular, sin necesidad de establecer relaciones causales entre las categorías estudiadas con un enfoque mixto, recopilando datos sobre los nuevos códigos lingüísticos y su incidencia en las interacciones de los jóvenes en la ciudad de Guaranda. Los principales resultados mostraron que una mayoría significativa de estudiantes están abiertos a experimentar con nuevos códigos lingüísticos, lo que sugiere adaptabilidad y mejorar la efectividad comunicacional en entornos virtuales. Los jóvenes están encontrando nuevas formas de expresarse y comunicarse a través de la tecnología, lo que puede llevar a la creación de nuevas formas de arte y cultura. El metaverso permite a los jóvenes conectarse con personas de todo el mundo y aprender sobre diferentes culturas y formas de pensar. El estudio confirmó que los nuevos códigos lingüísticos inciden en el comportamiento comunicacional de los estudiantes, esto permitió la producción de un audiovisual formato Podcast con explicaciones comprensibles de nuevos códigos lingüísticos y modos de comunicación, facilitando la comprensión intergeneracional y la cohesión social.  Es importante que los jóvenes y otros miembros de la sociedad comprendan y se aprendan los nuevos códigos lingüísticos para evitar malentendidos y facilitar la comunicación efectiva. Estos pueden ser una fuente de creatividad e innovación, permitiendo a los jóvenes expresarse de manera original y crear nuevas formas de comunicación.
Purdue STARS Performance Analysis
Authors: Gurganus Kayla , Dahmen Lynne
Published: February 2025

This Sustainability Performance Analysis (SPA) report reviews Purdue’s past and present sustainability performance as captured through STARS reporting to understand sustainability actions and to clearly and objectively identify where Purdue excels and how it might improve performance through the next STARS 3.0 submission.
Pesantren and Ecotheology: Mainstreaming Ecological Consciousness in Pesantren Langitan, East Java, Indonesia
Authors: Yardlo Moh , Muktafi Muktafi , Mahzumi Fikri , Arifka Angga , Sudarman Mei Ariani
Published: February 2025

This participatory research aimed to enhance the ecological consciousness of the Santri (students) of Pesantren Langitan, a traditional Islamic boarding school in Tuban, East Java, Indonesia. This pesantren was chosen as the subject based on its geographical location along the Solo River. From an ecological perspective, this location has facilitated the implementation of various environmental initiatives, including promoting green consciousness among the local community, encouraging reforestation along the riverbanks, discouraging waste disposal into the river, and other similar actions aimed at preserving the river ecosystem. Another factor that contributed to the selection of Pesantren Langitan as the subject was its traditional Islamic boarding school nature, focusing on studying classical Islamic texts (kitab kuning). Therefore, the research will likely contribute to promoting Islamic ecotheology. The research employed a participatory action approach, wherein Kyai, Ustaz, and santri were actively engaged in the program's planning, implementation, and evaluation. The theme-based program yielded successful outcomes in four key areas: (1) enhancing green consciousness among the santri, (2) formulating a green fiqh concept, (3) promoting green da'wa on social media, and (4) implementing green activities within the pesantren environment.
METODE PELAKSANAAN PEKERJAAN PONDASI PADA PROYEK PEMBANGUNAN MASJID DI TLOGOANYAR LAMONGAN
Authors: Nurhayati Zuriyah , Carina Annisa’ , Intan Mayasari
Published: February 2025

Pondasi strous memiliki fungsi sangat penting didalam konstruksi pada suatu bangunan karena fungsi dari semua pondasi adalah titik dasar perkuatan pada konstruksi. Fungsi dari pondasi strous sangat banyak yang salah satunya yaitu mengurangi resiko penurunan tanah pada bangunan yang nantinya akan berdiri menggunakan dasaran pondasi strous. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui metode dan rencana anggaran biaya dalam pekerjaan pondasi strouss. Metode penelitian yang digunakan yaitu deskriptif kuantitatif melalui studi kasus pada proyek pembangunan masjid di Tlogoanyar Lamongan. Hasil dalam penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa pekerjaan pembangunan pondasi strouss pada proyek pembangunan masjid di Tlogoanyar Lamongan sudah sesuai dengan metode berstandar SNI dan ada metode yang belum menggunakan standar SNI saat melakukan pekerjaan pembangunan pondasi strous berlangsung.
Characterizating the Participation of the LGBTQIA+ Community on GitHub
Authors: Paiva Erick , Carvalho Guilherme , Mayrink João Pedro , Maruch Maria Clara , Felix Pedro , Pacheco Gabriel , Xavier Laerte
Published: February 2025

Representation and inclusion are ongoing concerns in Software Engineering. To address this issue, previous studies present data and discuss strategies to mitigate inequality in team assembly. However, it is still unclear how these concerns enable the inclusion of developers belonging to minority groups in open-source projects. In particular, little is known about the participation of people from the LGBTQIA+ community in the development of popular GitHub projects. Therefore, this study aims to characterize the participation of this community, based on the collection of 4K user profiles and almost 58K repositories. We also seek to understand the behavior and the interaction of these users within this context, as well as to shed light on the creation of strategies that promote greater inclusion. As a result, it was observed that the technical profile of the users is far from that of the general developer community, despite their active participation in popular JavaScript and Python repositories. The social profile is isolated, with few user interactions, although there is a concentration in specific areas on the platform's map.
Iterative Framework For Data Augmentation Of Segmented Fingerprints
Authors: Dall Agnol João Leonardo Harres , Bona Wesley Augusto de , Rodrigues Érick Oliveira , Southier Luiz Fernando Puttow , Oliva Jefferson , Filipak Marcelo , Casanova Dalcimar
Published: February 2025

Infant biometrics presents unique challenges due to the physiological differences between infants and adults, compounded by the scarcity of available data for research that limits the development of robust matching systems. This paper proposes a novel data augmentation method that uses iterative techniques to generate diverse variants of segmented fingerprints by inducing errors in a convolutional neural network trained to extract fingerprint ridges and valleys. Experiments on real infant fingerprints demonstrate the method's effectiveness in expanding fingerprint variability, with augmentations exhibiting significant fluctuations in minutiae counts while still retaining visual similarity to the originals. The study also highlights the method's customizable nature for applying varying levels of changes to fingerprint segmentations. Future research includes training segmentation and matching neural networks using datasets augmented by the proposed framework.
Segmenting Freshwater Fish Images with Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Sales Nicolas Figueiredo Cavalcante , Watanabe Carolina Yukari Veludo
Published: February 2025

The acquisition of important information from fisheries for studies in Ichthyology and Fisheries currently takes place manually. Data on the length and morphology of freshwater fish are valuable for researchers to determine indicators in their studies. Technological development in this area aims to increase the speed and effectiveness of information gathering, assisting researchers, students, and fishermen in this goal. Aligned with this objective, this work presents a comparison between two models, Mask R-CNN and YOLOv8, used to segment fish images and generate their masks, ultimately feeding them into an automatic measurement algorithm, which is the broader purpose of this project. The results show that the models can segment various types of fish in different positions and environments, with Mask R-CNN achieving 80.16% using the IOU (Intersection over Union) metric and YOLOv8 achieving 86.15%.
Classification of Lung Cancer in Medical Imaging Using Convolutional Networks with CLAHE Preprocessing and Wavelet Transform
Authors: Ribeiro Moisés José M. , Sousa Pedro Moises de
Published: February 2025

Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) play a crucial role in the early detection of diagnoses, assisting healthcare professionals in decision-making. This study uses different CNNs (AlexNet, ResNet-50, and EfficientNet) to classify computed tomography (CT) scan images for lung cancer detection, using the IQ-QTH/NCC and LIDC-IDRI datasets. The models were trained and evaluated with various magnifications and epochs, measuring the performance of each model based on metrics such as accuracy, precision, and recall. The results showed that ResNet-50 achieved an average accuracy of 96.12%. AlexNet reached 94.38%, and EfficientNet obtained 94.38%.
Comparative analysis of machine learning algorithms for power factor prediction in smart grid applications
Authors: Faccin Graciélli D. L. , Diniz Elioenai M. F. , Teixeira Felipe R. , Denardin Gustavo W. , Costa Jean P. da
Published: February 2025

The escalating complexity of electrical energy systems demands innovative approaches to power management and predictive analysis. This groundbreaking study introduces a novel machine learning methodology for power factor prediction within a university campus setting, leveraging a sophisticated data normalization technique to address asymmetries in data collection. By systematically comparing multiple machine learning algorithms—including Logistic Regression, Random Forests, Support Vector Machines (SVM), k-Nearest Neighbors, and Multi-Layer Perceptron Neural Networks—the research provides insights into predictive performance. Notably, the research also developed an innovative data standardization mechanism using arithmetic functions, which effectively mitigates data asymmetry challenges. These results not only advance our understanding of power factor dynamics but also offer a robust framework for energy management in complex electrical systems, particularly in regions with adversarial operational characteristics.
Performance Evaluation of a Hybrid NSGA-III for Multi and Many-Objective Optimization in Real-World Problems
Authors: Nascimento Paulo Lopes do , Vargas Dênis E. C. , Wanner Elizabeth F.
Published: February 2025

Several real-world problems can be modeled as optimization problems in which multiple conflicting objectives must be optimized simultaneously. Evolutionary algorithms (EA) are able to identify a set of non-dominated solutions (Pareto front) and are commonly used to solve these problems. Hybrid EAs that combine various optimization techniques can leverage the strengths of each method involved, enhancing their overall effectiveness. This study evaluates the performance of the well-known NSGA-III hybridized with Differential Evolution, Sine Cosine, and Arithmetic algorithms on optimization problems based on real-world applications with three, four and five objective functions, extracted from the CEC 2021 competition. Performance comparisons between the hybrid and original versions of NSGA-III were conducted using the IGD+ and HyperVolume indicators. Statistical analysis via the Wilcoxon test revealed significant improvements in NSGA-III performance when the hybrid version is considered.
Project Management Practices and Challenges in Junior IT Companies
Authors: Caldeira Jéssica Nayara Fernandes , Soares Liziane Santos
Published: February 2025

Facing the challenges encountered by Information Technology (IT) junior enterprises in software development, this study provides a comprehensive analysis aimed at improving project management. The research seeks to identify the profile and characteristics of junior enterprises, investigate practices and challenges in project clustering, analyze project management processes, and identify risks in project development. Using interviews, literature review, and data analysis, the study offers an in-depth understanding of the environment within these organizations. Expected outcomes include specific proposals to enhance project management, contributing to the knowledge of the sector and providing practical guidelines for junior enterprises and software development startups. This innovative study addresses the gap in research on software management processes for IT junior enterprises, aiming to offer valuable and applicable insights with the potential to positively impact the performance and effectiveness of these organizations.
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence in Software Development
Authors: Silva Ronald Augusto Domingos , Pires Thalisson Lopes Gonçalves , Mendes Rodrigo Jeremias , Matos Mikaelly Elídia , de Oliveira Kevenn Laranjeira , Soares Liziane Santos
Published: February 2025

The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has brought significant transformations to software development and the job market. This study explores the integration of AI in various contexts within the Information Technology (IT) industry, including quality control, process automation, service management, and security. The analysis details how these technologies are reshaping traditional practices and redefining the roles of IT professionals. Additionally, the impact of AI on the job market is examined, highlighting automation of repetitive tasks, wage polarization, and the increasing demand for specialized skills. The research reveals that despite the challenges, AI adoption offers substantial opportunities to enhance efficiency and create new business models. The conclusion underscores the need for a strategic approach to AI implementation, balancing technological innovation with ongoing professional development and adaptation, ensuring an equitable and effective transition to a more automated and technologically advanced work environment.
Green IT: Sustainability as a Competitive Factor in the IT Market
Authors: Almeida Luís Fernando , Souza Victor Hugo Lara , da Cruz Pedro Augusto Simões , dos Reis Felipe Kauan , Soares Liziane Santos
Published: February 2025

The growing demand for sustainability has led the Information Technology (IT) sector to adopt Green IT practices, which aim to minimize the environmental impact caused by the use of technological resources. This article explores the concept of Green IT and its importance as a competitive factor in the IT market, where energy efficiency and sustainable resource management are becoming strategic advantages. Based on a literature review, we will analyze how the adoption of sustainable practices can impact the economic performance of companies, generating not only operational savings but also enhancing corporate visibility and image. This article aims to present the relevance of the Green IT concept in the current IT context and highlight how the integration of sustainability into IT strategies can be a catalyst for innovation and a crucial competitive advantage in today’s landscape. Additionally, gaps in the literature and possible future directions for the field will be discussed.
Modeling a Platform for Distribution of Brazilian Indie Games
Authors: Moreira Alexandre Bezerra , Soares Liziane Santos
Published: February 2025

The independent games market in Brazil has grown significantly in recent years, standing out for the creativity and innovation of local developers. However, Brazilian developers still face challenges related to the distribution and promotion of their games, especially on international platforms that do not consider the particularities of the national market. This work proposes the modeling of a platform specifically aimed at Brazilian independent games, offering an environment that meets both the needs of developers and the expectations of players.
Planning Successful Museum Building Projects
Authors: Crimm Walter L. , Morris Martha , Wharton Carole L.
Published: February 2025

In an era of expanded responsibility and constricted funding, museum personnel often need strong practical guidance on the best practices for building projects. The authors of Planning Successful Museum Building Projects discuss the reasons for undertaking building projects (new construction, renovation, expansion), the roles and responsibilities of key players, the importance of a strong vision, and the best methods for selecting architects and construction firms. They also offer in-depth information about budgeting and finance, feasibility studies, capital campaigns, marketing, and communications, as well as advice on how to live through the disorienting process of construction, manage post-opening needs, and evaluate the project's success over time. Planning Successful Museum Building Projects provides all the tools for successfully managing projects from predesign through opening and beyond.
Voices of Foreign Brides
Authors: Kim Choong Nam
Published: February 2025

Since the early 1990s, there has been a critical shortage of marriageable women in farming and fishing villages in Korea. This shortage, which has become a major social problem, resulted from a mass exodus of Korean women to cities and industrial zones. Korea's efforts to give rural bachelors a chance to marry have succeeded in providing 120,146 brides from 123 countries. However, the Korean government has proven to be ill-prepared to deal with the problems that foreign brides have encountered: family squabbles, prejudice, discrimination, divorce, suicide, and many adversities. The UN Commission on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination warned Korea to stop mistreatment of foreign brides and their children, those of so-called mixed blood, on account of human rights violations.

This book comprehensively covers Korean multiculturalism, with a focus on the foreign brides. In a two-pronged ethnographic approach, it offers a historical account of Korean immigration and naturalization, while also relating that past to the contemporary situation. As more and more people cross national boundaries, this detailed description of Korean multiculturalism serves as a valuable case study for an increasingly globalized world. Kim tells the stories of these voiceless women in a compassionate manner.
Reconstructing the Third Wave of Democracy
Authors: Edozie Rita Kiki
Published: February 2025

Since the 1990s, trends in African politics require the realization that the public policy practice and the theoretical analysis of 'democracy and democratization' are becoming increasingly important tenets for understanding the contemporary political science of the region. Reconstructing the Third Wave of Democracy explains these new political processes and ideas. Author Rita Kiki Edozie identifies factors that Africans have encountered since the foundation of the modern African state and presents a critical analysis of African politics through the lenses of post-colonial discourse by uniquely employing the ideas of democratic theory to guide an analysis of the Continent's democratic development and performance. Edozie presents an intra-regional comparative analysis of democratic politics in Africa in ways that few books on the same subject do for the continent. Her methodology for examining democracy in Africa reveals the dynamism of several country cases and several more regime experiences with democracy encountered from the post-World War II period to the current post-Cold War period.
The Pragmatic Vision
Authors: Rescher Nicholas
Published: February 2025

Since C. S. Pierce advocated a pragmatic approach to truth and knowledge, it has been one of the characteristic themes of American philosophy. This book examines how pragmatism's central ideas can be applied and implemented across the entire domain of philosophical deliberations, ranging from theory of knowledge and the value theory to providing explanations for human actions, and even to matters of ethics and religion. While there are various ways in which to weigh the merit of a philosophical idea or theory, this book makes the case that an assessment of that theory’s applicative utility is of the essence. The intersection of the theoretical and the practical is where meaningful philosophizing finds its legs, and Rescher’s unique pragmatically oriented analyses of traditional philosophical us to regard some historically prominent philosophical ideas in a new and revealing light.
Biosafety of GM Crops in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania
Authors: Chambers Judith A.
Published: February 2025

This report outlines the status of biotechnology regulatory structures in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, with a focus on regulation of genetically modified (GM) crops. Effective regulatory structures are important for the approval and use of agricultural technology. As technologies become more sophisticated, so too must regulatory structures and risk assessment frameworks. This paper provides a detailed analysis of the biotechnology regulatory structures in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda; outlines the current status of each country’s biotechnology regulatory structures; and evaluates to what extent the status of each of these countries’ regulatory structures permit and/or impede GM adoption. Finally, the paper examines potential areas for regulatory harmonization between these countries at a regional level.
Nations in Transit 2013
Authors:   Freedom House
Published: February 2025

Since 1995, Freedom House’s Nations in Transit series has monitored the status of democratic change from Central Europe to Eurasia, pinpointing the region’s greatest reform opportunities and challenges for the benefit of policymakers, researchers, journalists, and democracy advocates alike.

Covering 29 countries, Nations in Transit provides comparative ratings and in-depth analysis of electoral process, civil society, independent media, national and local democratic governance, judicial framework, and corruption. Nations in Transit 2013 evaluates developments in these areas from January 1 to December 31, 2012.
PSM/RMP Auditing Handbook
Authors: Einolf David , Menghini Luverna
Published: February 2025

This book provides facility managers with an easy-to-use annotated guide to completing a Process Safety Management/Risk Management Planning (PSM/RMP) audit and determining compliance. Using this reference, you'll learn how to evaluate current regulatory thinking and interpretations and develop a compliant and functioning PSM/RMP program. To simplify your process, the authors provide detailed examples of materials used in compliance audits, extensive examples of compliant programs, and relevant sample documents.

PSM/RMP Auditing Handbook presents compliance audit guidelines in a question-and-answer format with the authors' interpretive answers to each. The PSM checklists examine such issues as employee participation, process-safety information, process-hazards analysis, operating procedures, training, contractors, pre-startup safety reviews, hot work permits, incident investigation, and trade secrets. The RMP checklists include worst-case analysis, five-year accident history, management responsibility, document management, safety information, hazard review, operating procedures, training, maintenance, and incident investigations.

Special features include a detailed summary of each paragraph of both standards; the complete text of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 40 Part 68 and CFR Title 29 Part 1910.119; and where practical, references to Internet addresses or web pages containing pertinent rules or requirement information.
Strategies in Workers' Compensation
Authors: Sall Richard E.
Published: February 2025

Strategies in Workers' Compensation, written with the healthcare medical professional in mind, describes the nuts and bolts of workers compensation. The book details the history, laws, various stakeholders, costs, and problems encountered by healthcare providers. An emphasis is placed on the "difficult patient" with regard to management techniques for doctors, insurance companies, and employers. In addition, Strategies in Workers' Compensation offers reference material to aid in understanding the complex workers' compensation system.

Human resource professionals, insurance adjusters, case managers, and nurses will find the information contained in this book useful in confronting the myriad of problems that arise within their respective fields. This book is a valuable resource for anyone who deals with the injured worker.
Theatrical Space
Authors: Condee William Faricy
Published: February 2025

Too often directors and stage designers approach the architectural layout of theatres as obstructive to the creative process. Condee's book teaches theater professionals to work creatively within even the most restrictive theatrical space and transform it into an asset rather than an obstacle.

Condee has interviewed hundreds of prominent American and British directors, designers, and actors, and provides photographs and groundplans of major American theatres. Each chapter tackles a different set of problems, offering thoughtful solutions to common obstacles. Theatrical Space is not only a useful textbook for students of theatre, but also a valuable resource for all directors and designers, both young and experienced. Paperback edition available April 2002. Cloth version previously published in 1995.
Legacies of the Collapse of Marxism
Authors: Moore John H.
Published: February 2025

A penetrating study by prominent authors of the aftermath of the collapse of Marxism. Rudolf Andorka discusses the causes of the collapse of the Communist system; Francis Kukuyama looks at the varieties of Russian nationalism; Craig Calhoun addresses the interaction of nationalism, civil society, and democracy; James M. Buchanan analyzes the implications for economies in transition of the asymmetrical reciprocity in market exchange; Robert Conquest discusses academe and the Soviet myth; and Seymour Martin Lipset concludes with the question of why we did not anticipate the failure of Communism.
When Teacher Voices Are Heard
Authors: Elizabeth Birnam Elizabeth Birnam , Nary Debora
Published: February 2025

Moving towards the Common Core Standards in reading and writing, the time is right for school districts to reform literacy instruction by focusing their instruction around the needs of their diverse student population and the teaching styles of their teachers. There is no better way to do this than through a teacher-created, home-grown literacy program that aligns standards with student needs all while remaining cognizant of the teachers who implement the curriculum.
China Calls
Authors: Walker Anne Collins
Published: February 2025

In 1971 the United States had no diplomatic relations or established route of communications with China. Despite that, in a stunning act of diplomacy, President Richard Nixon announced that he would travel to China to meet with its leaders. Ron Walker, director of the White House Advance Office, was chosen to make it all happen. This is the story of Walker and his team.

China Calls is based on the actual transcripts of telephone calls between the advance team in Peking and the White House in Washington. Much is known about Nixon’s actual visit, but the story of how it all came together has never been told until China Calls. This 40th Anniversary Edition has an updated epilogue and additional photos.
Musi-Matics!
Authors: Nolan Karin K.
Published: February 2025

Plan an entire year of an arts-integrated mathematics curriculum with ready-to-use lesson plans and resources designed for elementary classroom and music teachers. Eighteen lesson plans combine the mathematics curriculum with music, movement, and visual art to enrich your classroom instruction and supplement your curricula. Author and educator Karin Nolan has gathered primary elementary math and fine arts standards from around the country (including the national arts standards) and created lessons for those objectives found most often. Also included are guidelines for developing your arts-integrated lesson plans to maximize your students' learning and creativity. There is a unique gentleness and passion in music and the arts that one cannot experience or express through any other means, and this book brings some of that beauty and creativity into elementary classrooms. Teachers reinforce both math and musical concepts through enjoyable techniques designed to enhance student mastery. Musi-Matics! has also successfully been used in college classes for elementary education and music education methods courses. This book guides teachers and future teachers through the lesson planning process and through arts-integration concepts.
The Catholic Shakespeare?
Authors: The Portsmouth Institute The Portsmouth Institute
Published: February 2025

Was Shakespeare Catholic?

By observing Shakespeare’s history and his plays evidence suggests that he was sympathetic to the Catholics’ plight. He had personal connections to people who were persecuted for their faith and throughout his plays there is evidence of a Catholic worldview. The Catholic Shakespeare? gives an inside look at the 2011 Portsmouth Institute conference, offering different takes from speakers to Shakespearean plays. Each speaker offers compelling evidence and some suggestions about the basis and meaning behind his plays as they relate to a Catholic view. Dr. Gerard Kilroy, University College, London, assembles linguistic and thematic cues to suggest Romeo and Juliet as an allegory for believers and the Catholic Church. Dennis Taylor, Boston College, takes a more historical approach in his review of Shakespeare's play The Tempest, tracing Catholic links to early efforts to explore the Americas. And, finally, Fr. David Beauregard, St. Clement seminary, takes a religious and philosophical look at relationships, charity, and the development of virtue in The Tempest. The Catholic Shakespeare is a must-read for anyone interested in the mystery behind Shakespeare’s religion.
Solving Education's Problems Effectively
Authors: Giordano Gerard
Published: February 2025

Rich in practical information about the history of American education, Solving Education''s Problems Effectively encourages readers to analyze, prioritize, and synthesize historical information by applying it to current situations. Using more than thirty case studies, Giordano suggests solutions to issues that plague educators across the nation-from textbook quality to gender, race, and religion biases. The case studies are accompanied by activities to prompt educators to higher levels of thinking about the problems they face.
Teaching Middle School Language Arts
Authors: Small Roseboro Anna J.
Published: February 2025

Teaching Middle School Language Arts is the first book on teaching middle school language arts for multiple intelligences and related 21st century literacies in technologically and ethnically diverse communities. More than 670,000 middle school teachers (grades six through eight) are responsible for educating nearly 13 million students in public and private schools. Thousands more teachers join these ranks annually, especially in the South and West, where ethnic populations are ballooning. Teachers and administrators seek practical, time-efficient ways of teaching language arts to 21st century adolescents in increasingly multicultural, technologically diverse, socially networked communities. They seek sound understanding, practical advice, and proven strategies for connecting diverse literature to 21st century societies while meeting state and professional standards. Teaching Middle School Language Arts provides strategies and resources that work. Roseboro's book provides an entire academic year of inspiring theory and instruction in multimedia reading, writing, and speaking for the 21st century literacies that are increasingly required in the United States and Canada. An appendix includes supplementary documents to adapt or adopt, and a companion web site is designed to continue communication with readers.
From the Dress-Up Corner to the Senior Prom
Authors: Bryan Jennifer
Published: February 2025

Very few PreK-12 teachers are adequately trained to address the gender identity and sexual identity of their students in a developmentally-appropriate and pedagogically-sound manner. Yet responsible adults—parents, educators, pre-service teachers, coaches, religious instructors, camp administrators and school counselors— must help children navigate the inherently diverse, increasingly complex world of gender and sexuality in the twenty-first century.

From the Dress-Up Corner to the Senior Prom is a practical, forward thinking resource for anyone involved in educating children and adolescents. Jennifer Bryan takes readers into classrooms, administrative meetings, recess, parent conferences, and the annual pep rally to witness the daily manifestations of Gender and Sexuality Diversity at school. She provides a coherent framework for understanding what readers "see," and invites them to use a contemporary, heart/mind perspective as they consider the true developmental needs of all elementary, middle, and high school students. The book features thoughtful questions, models of dialogue, accessible lesson plans, and many pedagogical strategies. At the heart of this book, though, are the evocative stories from teachers, students, and parents that Bryan has listened to over the span of her career. These personal anecdotes bring the comprehensive explorations of this seminal work to life.
Rebels in Society
Authors: Lebrun Marcel
Published: February 2025

Rebels in Society: The Perils of Adolescence is a true journey into the world of adolescents gone bad. This book reveals the inner workings of adolescents who have been caught up in pathology and the juvenile justice system. The first part of the book highlights juvenile sex offenders, juvenile serial killers, anti social youth, and the ones that become a statistic in the juvenile justice system. The overview of the justice system is explained in a way that an educator or parent can understand the legal process. This complex process of many steps and layers has been simplified for the reader in a way that one can navigate the process. This book also has given a personal face to many of the youths who are caught in the juvenile justice prison system.
Sexual Misconduct in Children
Authors: Kenney J. Wilson
Published: February 2025

Concerning sexual behavior in children can be challenging to understand, difficult to talk about, and hard to manage in school and community settings. Without a systematic best-practice approach for addressing these behaviors, communities run the risk of exposing their children to harm and their organizations to liability. In this book, Dr. Wilson Kenney, a clinical psychologist with over 15 years experience treating and assessing kids with concerning sexual behavior, lays out a comprehensive school/community based model for identifying and addressing concerning sexual behavior in children that is based upon best-practice models for threat assessment. The reader will find practical and economically sensitive recommendations regarding school and community supervision, ideas for accessing consultation, and advice regarding how best to approach these topics with families. Further, this book contains all the necessary paperwork and guidance needed to establish a formal school-based process for addressing concerning sexual behavior in children, regardless of the size of your community. It is a comprehensive how-to guidebook for keeping your school and community safe.
Standing Together
Authors: Klug Beverly J.
Published: February 2025

The majority of American Indian students attend public schools in the United States. However, education mandated for American Indian students since the 1800s has been primarily education for assimilation, with the goal of eliminating American Indian cultures and languages. Indeed, extreme measures were taken to ensure Native students would “act white” as a result of their involvement with Western education. Today’s educational mandates continue a hegemonic “one-size-fits-all” approach to education. This is in spite of evidence that these approaches have rarely worked for Native students and have been extremely detrimental to Native communities.

This book provides information about the importance of teaching American Indian students by bridging home and schools, using students’ cultural capital as a springboard for academic success. Culturally Responsive Pedagogy is explored from its earliest beginnings following the 1928 Meriam Report. Successful education of Native students depends on all involved and respect for the voices of American Indians in calling for education that holds high expectations for native students and allows them to be grounded in their cultures and languages.
No More Us and Them
Authors: Roessing Lesley
Published: February 2025

It is imperative that teachers build community in their classrooms and across their academic teams and grades in order to make school a safe and supportive place for adolescents. Teachers must help their students acknowledge that they belong to a group together, that they are part of a “we” or “us,” and that any differences—divergent talents, backgrounds, experiences, cultures, and skills—only make “us” stronger and better.

No More “Us” and “Them” delineates what steps educators can take to create an atmosphere where adolescent students feel accepted, included, and valuable to themselves and to their peers. The goal of this book is to change adolescent attitudes to lead to not just acceptance and tolerance, but toward an expansion of “us” and respect for their classmates that will serve to spread an even wider net of respect.

This book provides ideas for lessons and activities that can be integrated into existing curricula and that meet a variety of content area standards in language arts, social studies, science, mathematics, foreign languages, physical education, art, and music, while also proposing ideas for advisory or homeroom periods and class, team, and grade gatherings to build respect in our classrooms, our schools, and our communities.