bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La agricultura urbana como defensa del territorio
Authors: Jurado Chana Julieth Milena , Soto Vallejo Irma
Published: April 2024

Este artículo se propone identificar y comprender las características de la comuna San José, Manizales, Colombia, con respecto a las prácticas de agricultura urbana y su incidencia en el desarrollo urbano sostenible y en la defensa del territorio. Para ello, se siguió un método mixto que permitió, con el apoyo del software ATLAS.ti, el análisis cuantitativo y cualitativo de la información recolectada mediante encuesta, entrevista, grupo y focal y observación en el campo. Entre los hallazgos, se evidenció que la agricultura urbana se reconoce en la comuna como estrategia para la apropiación y defensa del territorio. Asimismo, las acciones de la comunidad por la defensa de la comuna San José han llevado a un desarrollo urbano más sostenible en el cual los habitantes buscan mejorar sus condiciones de vida. Se concluye que las prácticas de agricultura urbana gestadas por la Fundación Comunativa en la comuna, han permitido la generación de nuevos vínculos barriales, fortaleciendo el tejido social fragmentado y permitiendo así la creación de vínculos profundos con la tierra, con la ejecución de actividades conjuntas para ejercer la defensa del territorio, el buen vivir y su soberanía alimentaria.
Determinación de la concentración de cadmio contenido en material particulado menor a 10 micras en el municipio de Nobsa – Boyacá
Authors: Mateus Deaza Jonatan Sebastián , Molina Gómez Nidia Isabel , Álvarez Berrío Johan Alexander
Published: April 2024

El municipio de Nobsa se localiza en el Valle de Sogamoso, una de las zonas con mayor actividad industrial en Colombia debido a la presencia de diversos hornos de producción de cal, de polvo de ladrillo y cementeras. Entre los aspectos ambientales más significativos de este tipo de industrias se encuentran las emisiones atmosféricas que incluyen contaminantes como sulfatos, nitratos y metales pesados. Teniendo en cuenta lo anterior, se realizó un monitoreo de material particulado inferior a 10 microgramos (PM₁₀) determinando las concentraciones de cadmio (Cd) presentes en este; dicho monitoreo se llevó a cabo en el municipio de Nobsa (Boyacá) durante 34 días en el punto de muestreo Estación de Bomberos y 36 días en el punto de muestreo Las Caleras. Las concentraciones de los contaminantes fueron determinadas a partir del método gravimétrico para PM₁₀ y el método de espectrofotometría de absorción atómica -horno de grafito para Cd. Con los datos obtenidos se ejecutó un modelo de dispersión y un modelo geoespacial a través de los Software Screen View 4.0 y Arcgis 10.5, lo que permitió evidenciar una elevada concentración de PM₁₀ con bajas trazas de Cd. Los resultados presentan una relación significativa entre las enfermedades respiratorias y la residencia mayor a un año en el municipio, lo que sugiere un efecto crónico sobre la población.
Cobertura forestal y belleza escénica: un análisis de los arboles notables de Cali (Colombia)
Authors: Solano López Derlyn Johana , Mora Delgado Jairo , Duque Guillermo
Published: April 2024

La cobertura forestal es un elemento de belleza escénica, concepto constitutivo de los servicios del ecosistema cultural (SEC). Su valor estético se aprecia a escala de paisaje, donde la holísticidad cobra importancia en la percepción de los ciudadanos. En esa línea, los árboles y su preservación adquieren una impronta medular para el mejoramiento del hábitat y la producción de SEC, con base a la conservación de los espacios verdes en las ciudades, como un elemento constitutivo de la calidad de vida urbana, y el mejoramiento de la cohesión comunitaria; esto contribuye al bienestar y la salud humana, como aporte al desarrollo sustentable. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo la caracterización dasométrica de árboles notables, pertenecientes a las especies Albizia saman y Ceiba pentandra en dos espacios: los emplazamientos de la ciudad de Cali y el Campus Meléndez de la Universidad del Valle. Así, se realizaron evaluaciones dasometricas en los dos espacios citados. Para el análisis cuantitativo de variables dasométricas, una estadística descriptiva fue desarrollada con el software Infostat. Los resultados sugieren que los individuos forestales declarados como árboles notables en el municipio de Santiago de Cali, representan el 35,47% y 32,09%, respectivamente para A, saman y C, petandra, presentándose diferencias para cada una de las especies (p<0,05), en función de los espacios establecidos. Sin embargo, sus dimensiones fueron las esperadas para las especies y el estado de desarrollo de los individuos, criterio usado para su clasificación como árboles notables. Esta caracterización dasométrica representa una base para emprender proyectos de planificación y manejo de la cobertura forestal en Santiago de Cali, que apunten a la gestión integral de sus espacios verdes, base de su belleza escénica y constituyente de los SAE.
EXPLORING EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR: ANTECEDENTS, CONSEQUENCES AND STRATEGIES
Authors:   Zonguldak Bülent Ecevit University, Kişi Nermin
Published: April 2024

In the contemporary public sector, administrators seek innovative approaches to boost productivity, elevate service quality, and optimize resource allocation. Employee engagement (EE) stands out as a pivotal catalyst driving these transformative endeavors. Engaged employees approach their responsibilities with greater dedication and motivation, invest more energy and effort, demonstrate a higher level of performance and contribute to the achievement of exceptional organizational outcomes. Therefore, to establish an effective framework for public administration, administrators must not only comprehend the factors influencing EE in the public sector and its outcomes but also proactively develop strategies to foster engagement among their workforce. This study aims to identify the fundamental antecedents and consequences of EE in the public sector while evaluating this concept from a strategic perspective. To achieve this aim, an extensive literature review is conducted, involving the systematic examination of existing studies published in the Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus databases on EE within the public sector. The original aspect of the study is to introduce a conceptual model that integrates the antecedents influencing EE, its resulting outcomes and potential strategies for cultivating EE. It is expected that the research findings will both stimulate academic interest and provide insights for practitioners in the realm of public administration.
DRIVERS OF ONLINE TRUST IN COMMUNICATION WITH REGIONAL GOVERNMENT: EVIDENCE FROM ST. PETERSBURG
Authors:   ITMO University, Vidiasova Lyudmila , Cronemberger Felippe ,   University at Albany, Kabanov Yury ,   National Research University Higher School of Economics
Published: April 2024

Regional governments commonly use e-government technologies when setting out to deliver value to the public. While the use of technology has become a standard of modern public management, risks and limitations associated with its use, such as lack of trust from constituents, need to be carefully examined in light of city experiences, an endeavor that is still scarcely undertaken in the context of smart city initiatives. This paper examines trust regarding online platform usage in St. Petersburg, Russia. The research questionnaire was based on a set of variables that characterize the experience of using information technologies in different areas and in terms of attitudes towards them. A survey of 800 St. Petersburg residents was conducted (the sampling error does not exceed 4%, the confidence level is 95%) and statistical methods (correlation analysis, multiple regression, principal component analysis) were applied. Findings suggest that online trust is multidimensional and influenced by factors related to positive perceptions of institutions, political efficacy of online initiatives, and satisfactory past experience. The implications of these findings and future directions are presented in the context of the e-government research agenda.
DEFENSE EXPENDITURES WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF POSITIVE EXTERNAL EFFECTS FROM THE PRODUCTION OF HIGH-TECH WEAPONS (THE CASE OF ARMENIA)
Authors:   Public Administration Academy of the RA, Harutyunyan Gayane Е.
Published: April 2024

The article explores the issues of defense spending optimization in Armenia from the point of view of possible positive externalities of the production of high-tech weapons. It attempts to answer the question of how to solve the well-known dilemma of “guns versus butter” for Armenia amid the current geopolitical and geoeconomic challenges. To achieve the objectives, the differences between the concepts of effectiveness and efficiency of defense spending were considered. The potential impact of the production of high-tech weapons on the economy and the military sector was discussed through the prism of the “exploration-exploitation” dilemma. Such an approach is aimed to emphasize the differences between the economic efficiency at different stages of new military technologies’ life cycle and the opportunity cost of military spending. As for possible positive externalities of the high-tech weapons production, an improvement in the balance of payments, relieving the public debt-servicing burden, developing human capital, increasing employment, creating and deepening bilateral and multilateral military-political and military-technical cooperation are presented as such in the article. However, peace and transfer of technology to other sectors of the economy, in defiance of the accepted approaches, have not been considered to the externalities of the high-tech weapons production. The study concluded that the redistribution of a part of defense spending to the high-tech sector, the ultimate goal of which is to gradually ease the burden of military spending for the state, can be the beginning of qualitative changes in terms of economic development and security duo to the positive externalities of innovation and mastery of high-tech industries.
Economic Survey of Household Expenditure Pattern during COVID-19 Pandemic in Ogun State, Nigeria
Authors: Ajibade AJ , Amao Amao , Sulaimon OI , Daud SA , Omotoso AB
Published: April 2024

The research investigated the expenditure patterns of rural households in the Nigerian state of Ogun. The precise aims of this study are to ascertain the determinants that influence the weekly expenditure on food within the household and to estimate the total amount spent on food. A simple random sampling method was employed to ascertain the 480 rural households that comprised the study area. The interview schedule was employed to obtain essential data from the participants in the study area, including age, marital status, and food expenditure. The descriptive statistics and Ordinary Least Square (OLS) regression were used to determine the determinant of the quantity spent on food in the households of respondents in the study area. Descriptive statistics indicate that 55.0% of the respondents are married, 75.0% have completed formal education, and the mean age, household size, and monthly income are estimated to be 45 years, 6 individuals, and ₦49,500.50, respectively. The majority of participants (66.67%) reported spending less than ₦20,000.00 on food. The estimated mean expenditures for food consumed at home and while away from home were ₦17,544.60 and ₦16,700.55, respectively. Household food expenditure is significantly and positively influenced by household income (p0.01), the age of the household head (p0.1), household size (p0.01), and occupation (p0.05), according to ordinary least squares regression. Food expenditure was significantly influenced by household income, household size, and the age of the household chief, according to the findings of this study. Policy consideration should be given to the price control mechanism for food so that it is more affordable for rural residents, according to the study.
On Sequences of Geophine Triples Involving Padovan and Bernstein Polynomial with Propitious Property
Authors:   Associate Professor, PG and Research Department of Mathematics, Cauvery College for Women (Autonomous), Affiliated to Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India, Janaki G , Sarulatha R
Published: April 2024

Objective: To bring forth a new conception in the time-honoured field of Diophantine triples, namely “Geophine triple”. To examine the feasibility of proliferating an unending sequence of Geophine triples from Geophine pairs with the property comprising Padovan and Bernstein polynomial. Method: Established Geophine triples employing Padovan and Bernstein polynomial by the method of polynomial manipulations. Findings: An unending sequences of Geophine triples and with the property and are promulgated from Geophine pairs, precisely involving Padovan and Bernstein polynomials and few numerical representation of the sequences are computed using MATLAB. Novelty: This article carries an innovative approach of determining this definite type of triples using Geometric mean and thereby, two infinite sequences of Geophine triples with the property are ascertained. Also, few numerical representations of the sequences utilizing MATLAB program are figured out, thus broadening the scope of computational Number Theory. Keywords: Polynomial Diophantine triple, Geophine triple, Bernstein polynomial, Padovan polynomials, Pell’s equation, Special Polynomials
Solution of Fractional Differential Equations Involving Hilfer-Hadamard Fractional Derivatives
Authors:   Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematics, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, 302004, Rajasthan, India, Chanchlani Lata , Manohar Pratibha , Sharma Ajay , Choudhary Sangeeta
Published: April 2024

Objectives: The aim is to establish prerequisite properties for the Hilfer-Hadamard fractional derivatives and address boundary value problems related to fractional polar Laplace and fractional Sturm-Liouville equations involving Hilfer-Hadamard fractional derivatives. Methods: Existing definitions and findings are utilized to obtain the properties for fractional derivatives, and the Adomian decomposition method is employed to solve the fractional differential equations. Findings: Validity conditions for the law of exponents are determined, and the study investigates the fractional differential equations and their corresponding solutions, possessing the capacity to replace the traditional polar Laplace and Sturm-Liouville boundary value problems to effectively represent real-world phenomena. Novelty: The study introduces the substitution of two consecutively operated Hilfer-Hadamard fractional derivatives with a corresponding single Hilfer-Hadamard fractional derivative using the law of exponents. Additionally, the polar Laplace and Sturm-Liouville boundary value problems are extended to their respective fractional counterparts, expressed in a concise format using HilferHadamard fractional derivatives. Keywords: Adomian decomposition method, Hilfer-Hadamard fractional derivative, Fractional polar Laplace equation, Fractional Sturm-Liouville boundary value problem
Strengthened Granite Particles on Al6082 Alloy for Lightweight Structural Applications
Authors:   Research Scholar, Department of Mechanical Engineering, St. Peter’s Institute of Higher Education & Research, Avadi, Chennai, 600077, Tamil Nadu, India, Burlakanti Subramanyam , Pitchaipillai Periyasamy
Published: April 2024

Objectives: An experimental effort is undertaken to enhance the mechanical properties of composite reinforced granite particles with Al6082 composition in contrast to previous research for lightweight structural applications. Methods : The stir casting process is used to develop the composite for the test samples. S1 sample contains 99.5 wt.% of Al6082 raw material and 0.5 wt.% of granite particles; S2 sample contains 99.0 wt.% of Al6082 raw material and 1.0 wt.% of granite particles; S3 sample contains 100 wt.% of Al6082 raw material and 0.0 wt.% of granite particles. The elemental content and particle size of granite particles were ascertained by means of SEM and EDS analysis. Findings: Tensile test was carried out for S1 & S2 samples. S1 test sample shown better results as compared to S2 sample. The microhardness of test specimen was measured at various locations for S1, S2 and S3 samples. S3 sample performed better as compared to S1 and S2 samples. Further, this microhardness value increased from S1 sample to S2 sample at two locations and the third location showed an equal value. The microstructure examination was also carried out by Using SEM analysis. The average tensile strength (UTS) of the S1 sample is 91 MPa, while the S2 sample's UTS is 50 MPa. The S1 sample can withstand a high load because of its elemental composition percentage, according to the UTS test. The average results of the microhardness test were 118 HV for the S1 sample, 133 HV for the S2 sample, and 143 HV for the S3 sample. It is suggested that this granite particle-reinforced material can be used as a lightweight structural engineering application based on previous research and this experimental investigation. Novelty: By using the granite particles as reinforced material the mechanical properties of the composite improved as compared to the existing available results with different reinforced materials. Keywords: Granite particles (GP), Al6082 alloy, Stir casting, Ultimate tensile strength, Microhardness, SEM & EDS Analysis
Mouse Organ Collection (Brain, Bone, Colon, Liver, and Mammary) v2
Authors: Davis Andrew , Havas Aaron , Li Sha , Haddadin Laurence , Jurk Diana , Kim Kenneth , Adams Peter
Published: April 2024

This is a mouse dissection protocol intended to collect the 5 organs outlined in the SBPMDI TMC: Brain, Bone Marrow, Colon, Liver, and Mammary. Liver is collected as whole liver as opposed to hepatocytes or perfused liver. Brain is collected alternatively as hippocampus or a whole hemisphere for OCT or FFPE. Bone marrow is collected as viable cells frozen down in freezing media.
ImmPRESS Polymer Detection Following BaseScope In Situ Hybridization v1
Authors: Erb madalynn.erb
Published: April 2024

Protocol for performing ImmPRESS immunostaining with alkaline phosphatase labeling after BaseScope In Situ Hybridization mouse brain sections.
BAF_Protocol_008 Metabolomics: Soluble Metabolite Extraction v1
Authors: Sherman Nicholas
Published: April 2024

This is a standard metabolite sample prep using chloroform/methanol and keeping the soluble (aqueous) phase. This method will produce a clean sample free of most lipids and very hydrophobic molecules. The samples are ready for MS analysis or storage dry at -80C.
La angustia de circunstancia: un modelo iatrofilosófico para la depresalgia
Authors:   Universidad de Valladolid, Vargas-Aragón Martín L.
Published: April 2024

Se define “iatrofilosofía” como la disciplina traslacional entre la medicina y la filosofía que tiene un doble objetivo, teórico y práctico. Se presenta un modelo de iatrofilosofía práctica aplicado al dolor crónico asociado a depresión y estrés —depresalgia— que expande al ámbito médico general la psicoterapia Fenomenológica, Hermenéutica Dinámica (PHD). Se parte del modelo general de la triada médica — patología (disease), padecimiento (illness) y condición de enfermo (sickness)— y, en el horizonte de la antropología de Ortega, se proponen cinco metáforas nucleares: avaricia del cuerpo, angustia de circunstancia, desgarro personal, nudos personales y expropiación personal. Estas se relacionan con los mecanismos neurobiológicos de sensibilización central, alostasis y alteración del eje hipotálamo-hipófisis-suprarrenal. Se propone un proceso de recuperación personal basado en la concordia terapéutica. El análisis del dolor crónico y de otros problemas complejos de salud puede beneficiarse de metodologías filosóficas como la hermenéutica clínica.
Tourism Destination Selection Attributes, Tourist Satisfaction and Behavioral Intentions of Multicultural Families in South Korea: Focusing on Self-Efficacy
Authors:   People & Global Business Association, f f , f f , f f
Published: April 2024

Purpose: Empirically analyze the tourism destination selection attributes, tourist satisfaction and behavioral intentions of multicultural families by country of origin. Confirm the mediating effect of self-efficacy on the relationship between tourism destination selection attributes, tourist satisfaction and behavioral intentions.
Design/methodology/approach: Survey among adult multicultural family members in the Gwangju and Jeonnam regions of South Korea. The main analysis methods were confirmatory factor Structural Equation Modeling analysis.
Findings: Behaviors and preferences differed depending on the country of origin of the respondents, and were influenced by tourism destination selection attributes. To promote cultural exchange and understanding, the local community should support activities that foster cultural exchanges and understanding between multicultural families and residents, along with education programs to promote the independence and social participation of multicultural families.
Research limitations/implications: The study focused only on multicultural family members from three countries, limiting its generalizability to all multicultural populations. Future research on the position of vulnerable populations in tourism, and the economic effects of their tourism is recommended.
Originality/value: By focusing on the experiences of multicultural family members, this research fills a gap on tourism for multicultural families living in Korea, placing an emphasis on self-efficacy, which has been overlooked in previous studies. Also, by comparing and analyzing the relationships between self-efficacy and the tourism behavioral intentions and satisfaction of families originating from China, Vietnam, and the Philippines, this research demonstrates how the psychological characteristics of multicultural families influence diverse tourism experiences.
Hotel Selection Attributes and Booking Intention: Challenges of Hotel Industry in the Post COVID-19 Pandemic Era
Authors:   People & Global Business Association, f f , f f , f f , f f
Published: April 2024

Purpose: This study aims to investigate the influence of hotel selection attributes, CHSE (clean, health, safety, and environment) practice, and brand credibility on hotel booking intention. Additionally, this study investigates the role of CHSE practices, together with brand credibility, as moderating factors in the relationship between hotel selection attributes and hotel booking intention among travelers.
Design/methodology/approach: With an incidental sampling technique, in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, data were collected from 157 travellers over 20 years old who had stayed in a CHSE-certified hotel in Bali, Indonesia. Partial least squares structural equation modelling was utilized to assess the relationship model.
Findings: This study reveals that hotel selection attributes, CHSE practice, and brand credibility positively influence on hotel booking intention. CHSE practice weakens the positive influence of hotel selection attributes on booking intention. While brand credibility reinforces the said influence. In the framework of signaling theory, CHSE practice can be seen as an internal signal that can influence hotel booking intention. While brand credibility is an external signal.
Research limitations/implications: This finding cannot be generalized to other contexts and countries. Another limitation is that respondents filled out the questionnaire when they were not on the spot of the hotel due to potential disturbing leisure and location permit constraints. Future studies could pay attention to collecting data while the respondent is still at the hotel to obtain more updated questionnaire responses. The outcome of this study has practical implications for hotel management in designing strategic plans to improve hotel booking intentions.
Originality/value: This study contributes to the literature on the moderating variable in the positive influence of travellers' hotel selection attributes on booking intention, which has never been explored before. In actuality, the post-COVID-19 pandemic will never be identical to the pandemic period, especially in terms of how travellers make considerations when booking hotels.
Patterns of Grain Fragmentation During Plastic Deformation of Metals at Small to Medium Strains (Brief Review)
Authors:   Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, Russia, Zolotorevsky N.
Published: April 2024

The review is devoted to the phenomenon of fragmentation: the subdivision of initial grains into highly misoriented crystallites in the process of plastic deformation. The investigations performed mostly during last two decades were considered and, in doing so, the early stages of fragmented microstructure evolution were of interest. Characteristics of regular cell block structure, described repeatedly before, were specified on the basis of more recent investigations, in particular, its orientation dependence and the development of primary and secondary microbands. The large-scale manifestations of grain subdivision, zones of intense fragmentation as well as the evolution of misorientation angle distribution with increasing strain and changing deformation conditions were also considered. Finally, the modeling of fragmentation is discussed briefly.
A Brief Review on Mechanisms of Plastic Deformation and Fracture Toughness Enhancement in Bimodal Metal-Graphene Composites with Nanotwinned Structure
Authors:   Institute for Problems in Mechanical Engineering of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Russia, Skiba N.V.
Published: April 2024

A brief review of the theoretical models which describe mechanisms of the plastic deformation and fracture toughness enhancement in bimodal metal-graphene composites with nanotwinned structure is presented. In the framework of the models, the plastic deformation in such composites occurs due to the lattice dislocation slip and the grain boundary sliding in nanocrystalline/ultrafine-grained matrix, and the lattice dislocation slip and the migration of the twin boundaries in large grains with nanotwinned structure. Within the review, the migration of nanotwin boundaries in the large grains releases in part local stresses near crack tips and provides the fracture toughness enhancement in bimodal metal-graphene composites with nanotwinned structure. At the same time, the presence of the graphene inclusions in metal-matrix induces the crack bridging effect which also increases the fracture toughness of bimodal metal-graphene composites.
Changes in the pathomorphological condition of the myocardium in dysferlinopathy mice (Bla/J type)
Authors: Savelyeva Maria A. , Bardakov Sergey N. , Emelin Alexey M. , Deev Roman V.
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:Dysferlinopathy is heritable progressive muscular dystrophy caused byDYSFmutation. Currently, although skeletal muscle pathology has been defined, only fragmentary and limited myocardium histopathology data are available.
AIM:The study aimed to analyze the pathomorphological status of the myocardium in Bla/J mice models of dysferlinopathy at different ages.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:Data from two experimental groups were analyzed: Bla/J mice withDYSFknockout on 3, 6, and 12 months old and control wild-type Balb/C mice aged 6 months. The expressions and patterns of dyeing of protein dysferlin in the immunofluorescent search method were analyzed. These were held such parameters of the histological characteristic of the myocardium of three dyeing protocols (hematoxylin and eosin, iron hematoxylin by Rego, and hematoxylin-basic fuchsin-picric acid by Lie), and morphometry of the parameters of the cardiomyocytes (length, width of cardiomyocytes, and nuclear perimeter).
RESULTS:The immunofluorescent search method revealed high levels of dysferlin in the myocardium of the control group. Statistical analysis showed significant differences between Bla/J and Balb/C mice: the increasing length and width of cardiomyocytes in dysferlinopathy by 49.9% ((95% confidence interval, 45.9–57.4) and 35.6 (95% confidence interval, 32.9–37.9)), respectively. Nucleus perimeter was significantly reduced in the dysferlinopathy group with disease duration of 6 months (by 23.9 (95% confidence interval, 20.2–27.5) compared with the group with disease duration of 3 months and by 18.8% (95% confidence interval, 8.5–19.7)) and the control group. Consequently, progressive hypertrophy of cardiomyocytes, increasing deformation in cardiomyocytes, intercalated disk destruction, hypoxia features, and necrosis indication were observed, resulting in fibrosis. A pattern of cardiomyocyte size reduction dependent on the aging process was observed.
CONCLUSIONS:Dysferlin deficiency leads to significant damage in the myocardium of Bla/J mice.
Experiences of New Jersey Public School Communication Directors
Authors:   , Brown Alisha Monique , Phillips Joy C.
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this qualitative, phenomenological study was to understand the experiences of public relations practitioners (i.e., communication directors) and their roles and responsibilities in New Jersey public school districts. Three research questions guided this study: (a) What are New Jersey public relations practitioners' perceptions and lived experiences related to their educational roles and responsibilities? (b) How do New Jersey public relations practitioners communicate with internal and external stakeholders? (c) How might knowing New Jersey public relations practitioners' experiences inform future practices by clarifying roles and responsibilities? Data and information for this study were primarily gathered through one-on-one semi structured interviews with 12 current New Jersey public school communication directors. Five main themes emerged through the participants' lived experiences: (a) readiness for school public relations, (b) roles and responsibilities, (c) expectations, (d) challenges, and (e) recommendations. All participants had experienced challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic and public opinion. Findings from this study provided meaningful insight into how public school districts can support communication directors.
Corporate Cash Holdings and Earnings Quality – Evidence from the Stock Market in Poland
Authors: Gryko Józefa , Czapiewski Leszek , Lizińska Joanna
Published: April 2024

Theoretical background: High levels of cash holdings allow companies to be financially flexible. Cash holders can react to business opportunities at once, and avoid dependence on external financing. Having cash reserves acts as a protective cushion from possible business shocks. However, cash holdings, like other asset items, incur cost. The direct costs mostly relate to obtaining and servicing of financing. Excessive cash may also induce the agency problem of free cash flow. Information asymmetry, among other factors, influences cost of capital and the efficiency of investor monitoring. Earnings management strategies are related to the informativeness of financial reports, as they can either support or disturb the assessment of company risk and performance. Hence, companies search for tailor-made strategies that usefully trade-off the benefits and costs of cash reserves and earnings quality. Purpose of the article: Earnings management occurs either via intervention in the reporting process using accruals, or changing the structure or the timing of real business transactions. This study aims to assess the differences in accrual and real earnings management strategies between firms with relatively high and low cash reserves. Based on a sample of non-financial companies listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange in Poland, this research provides evidence on the relationship between the level of cash holdings and earnings quality. Research methods: Earnings management is proxied with annual cross sectional regressions estimated in non-financial GICS sectors. The Jones and the modified Jones model allow to estimate expected accruals. Using the Roychowdhury approach, normal cash flow from operations, normal production costs, and normal discretionary expenses are estimated. These normal levels are compared with their actual value to proxy for accrual- and real-earnings management. Next, each company was assigned to one of two groups, depending on the level of cash holdings relative to the annual industry medians. Parametric and non-parametric tests were used to test statistical significance. Main findings: The empirical results show statistically significant differences in accrual and real earnings management between companies with relatively high and low cash reserves. Cash holders seem to be more likely to manage earnings via shifting accruals between periods. However, there is no evidence that any of the groups boosted earnings more. Unsigned earnings management proxies suggest lower informativeness of financial reports for companies with cash buffers. Cash holdings were positively related to activities aimed at reducing fixed costs per unit and savings on discretionary expenses. Summing up, this research shows that companies with greater information asymmetry related to poor earnings quality preferred to hold larger cash reserves.
Economic Growth in the European Union: The Importance of Renewable Energy Consumption
Authors: Firlej Krzysztof Adam , Mierzejewski Mateusz , Stanuch Marcin
Published: April 2024

Theoretical background: The studies on the links between renewable energy consumption and economic growth are of great interest. A search of the literature on the subject reveals a diversity of studies in many respects, including but not limited to the search for a unidirectional or reciprocal relationship. The results of the studies often vary depending on the research method used and the period of analysis, which determines subsequent attempts to understand the issue. Purpose of the article: The aim of this article is to determine the relationship between the consumption of renewable energy sources and economic growth in European Union member states between 2004 and 2020. Research methods: The study was based on the data from the Eurostat database for the period 2004–2020. The study made use of data normalization using the min-max method. The linear regression method was used to assess the relationship between GDP per capita and the electricity indicators available for final consumption and renewable energy sources. Main findings: The study did not find a significant trend between renewable energy consumption and economic growth. However, this fact cannot be taken as establishing the absence of a relationship between the two indicators. Although no strong correlation was observed, some interactions are visible depending on the EU member state, which entitles us to partially confirm the research hypothesis. The differences between the groups of EU-15 and EU-10 countries are not distinct, and extending the set of monitored variables (i.e. carrying out modelling for EU-27 countries) does not have a significant impact on the results of the study, which are similar.
El concepto europeo de reglamento técnico en el marco del sistema de información previsto por la Directiva (UE) 2015/1535
Authors: Álvarez García Vicente J.
Published: April 2024

Este artículo hace un repaso del concepto europeo de reglamento técnico, que es bien diferente de su configuración nacional. Este concepto está constituido por cuatro categorías de medidas que son estudiadas por el autor a la luz de la jurisprudencia del Tribunal de Justicia de la Unión Europea. Estas categorías son: en primer término, las especificaciones técnicas; en segundo término, los llamados «otros requisitos»; en tercer término, las reglas relativas a los servicios de la sociedad de la información; y, en cuarto término, las disposiciones legales, reglamentarias y administrativas que prohíben la fabricación, importación, comercialización o utilización de un producto. Junto a estos perfiles del concepto europeo de reglamento técnico obligatorio de iure, el autor hace un repaso de los perfiles configuradores de los reglamentos técnicos de facto. Analizados los contornos de esta trascendental categoría normativa, el artículo se centra en el análisis del sistema de información previsto por la Directiva 2015/1535, estudiando el funcionamiento de los dos grandes elementos de este sistema a partir de la jurisprudencia del Tribunal de Justicia europeo. Estos dos grandes elementos son: por un lado, la obligación de comunicación a la Comisión de los proyectos de reglamentos técnicos elaborados por un Estado miembro de la Unión Europea; y, por otro, el período de aplazamiento o de statu quo para la adopción definitiva de un reglamento previamente notificado por parte de un Estado miembro.
Una nueva aportación del Tribunal de Luxemburgo en materia de adquisición y pérdida de nacionalidad a la luz del derecho de la Unión Europea: El asunto C-689/21, Udlændinge- og Integrationsministeriet
Authors: Vázquez Rodríguez Beatriz
Published: April 2024

En el asunto C-689/21, Udlændinge- og Integrationsministeriet, el órgano jurisdiccional remitente ha solicitado al TJ que se pronuncie sobre si el art. 20 TFUE debe interpretarse en el sentido de que se opone a la normativa de un Estado miembro que prevé la pérdida automática de la nacionalidad al cumplir veintidós años si no se ha solicitado su conservación antes de esa edad. Ello puede significar que las personas afectadas que no posean, además, la nacionalidad de otro Estado miembro, pierdan la ciudadanía de la Unión sin que las autoridades nacionales hayan llevado a cabo, a la luz del derecho de la Unión, un examen de proporcionalidad de las consecuencias que tal pérdida tiene para esta persona. Así, este asunto constituye un nuevo capítulo de una saga jurisprudencial en la que el TJ ha venido aclarando cuales son las obligaciones de los Estados miembros en materia de adquisición y pérdida de nacionalidad a la luz del derecho de la Unión Europea. Además, en esta sentencia, el Tribunal de Luxemburgo no solo ha tenido la oportunidad de recordar los principios jurisprudenciales previamente consolidados, sino que los ha matizado y ha incluido algún elemento novedoso que puede suponer una evolución de su propia jurisprudencia en este ámbito material.
Crónica de jurisprudencia del Tribunal de Justicia de la Unión Europea, mayo-diciembre 2023
Authors: Arnaldos Orts Enrique
Published: April 2024

Crónica de jurisprudencia del Tribunal de Justicia de la Unión Europea, mayo-diciembre 2023
Challenges and implications of microwork in the age of artificial intelligence: A global socioeconomic analysis
Authors: Arruda Eucidio Pimenta , Pimenta Durcelina
Published: April 2024

This study adopts a discursive and analytical perspective to explore how technological advances are reconfiguring the dynamics of the global labour market, with special attention to the phenomenon of microwork. Microwork, characterised by short, fragmented tasks carried out through digital platforms and geographically distributed, has seen exponential growth, particularly in nations with lower economic development. This type of work shows a growing distinction between tasks of a complex and creative nature and those of a repetitive and monotonous nature that do not require advanced skills to perform. This differentiation can intensify wage disparities between developed and developing countries, as well as contribute to the precariousness of work in activities considered less complex and valued. The article highlights the emergence of unstable and poorly paid jobs that do not require specific qualifications and discusses their impact on social security systems in countries where labour regulations are insufficient. Using a theoretical-methodological approach, the research examines the role of artificial intelligence in the rise of micro-labour and its socio-economic implications. It concludes that despite the flexibility and short-term earning opportunities offered by microwork, it poses considerable challenges in terms of income security, workers’ rights, and social protection, emphasising the need for regulatory measures to mitigate its adverse effects on vulnerable communities.
“Italiani brava gente”. L’identità nazionale italiana.
Authors: Patat Ellen
Published: April 2024

Recensione di: Beatrice Falcucci, Emanuele Giusti & Davide Trentacoste (a cura di), Rereading Travellers to the East. Shaping Identities and Building the Nation in Post-unification Italy, Firenze, Firenze University Press, 2022, 229 p., ISBN: 978-88-5518-578-3, € 16,90.
Prison Library Services in Croatia Need Improvement to Meet International Standards of Universal Rights to Access
Authors: Perryman Carol L.
Published: April 2024

A Review of:

Šimunić, Z., Tanacković, S.F., & Badurina, B. (2016). Library services for incarcerated persons: A survey of recent trends and challenges in prison libraries in Croatia. Journal of Librarianship and Information Science, 48(1), 72-89. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0961000614538481

Objective – To compare the status of prison libraries in Croatia to prior studies and ultimately, to guidelines for prison library services (Lehmann & Locke, 2005). Two research questions were asked: 1) How are Croatian prison libraries organized and managed? and 2) What kind of library collections and services are offered to incarcerated persons in Croatia?

Design – Quantitative survey.

Setting – 23 Croatian prison libraries.

Subjects – Persons in charge of prison libraries.

Methods – A paper survey was mailed to all 23 Croatian prisons in 2013. The survey consisted of 31 questions grouped into 3 categories: general library information, management of the library, and use. Analysis provided descriptive statistics.

Main Results – Twenty-one responses (91%) were received. For the 10 institutions providing data on library holdings size, the numbers ranged from 450 to 6122, but per capita figures were not possible to calculate as no responses provided prison population size. Most (65%) maintained an entry book for new acquisitions, while one library kept a card catalogue. Half performed collection assessment on an annual basis.

While all but 1 of the prisons had libraries, most (16 of 20) reported that funding was not provided on a regular basis; 13 had space allocated specifically for library purposes, but none were staffed by trained librarians, instead using prison staff or prisoners. Only two libraries practised regularly-scheduled collection development, with half acquiring materials solely through donations resulting in limited topical coverage. All collections included monographs, but only around 25% carried newspapers, magazines, music, or videos. While use of the libraries was high, most responses reflected severely limited educational, rehabilitative or cultural programming and access to the internet, and lack of space for collections and reading purposes.

Conclusion – Libraries in Croatia fail to meet international standards for staffing, collections, and services. Recommendations for immediate improvement are made, including legislative advocacy and funding, improved public library involvement, and the creation of national standards aligned with international standards.
STUDY OF THE CONVERGENCE OF POLYNOMIALS AND THE FINITE ELEMENT METHOD TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THE PLASTIC PROPERTIES OF THE MATERIAL
Authors: Andriievskyi Viktor , Martyniuk Ivan , Maksymiuk Oleksandr
Published: April 2024

One of the challenges associated with  the development of numerical  methods for structural analysis based on the finite element method is  justifying the reliability of the obtained  results and comparing the  effectiveness of new approaches with  existing ones. Theoretically, this is  often difficult to accomplish, even for specific cases. Therefore, to address these issues, numerical experiment data obtained on benchmark problems are usually employed. This article explores a class of objects  representable by a prismatic finite element with a cross-section of arbitrary shape. For this prismatic finite element with variable mechanical and geometric parameters across the section, the solution relationships of the semi-analytical finite element method are presented for calculating nodal reactions and stiffness matrix coefficients, considering the material's plastic properties. The convergence of calculation results based on the semi-analytical finite element method using Fourier series and polynomials is compared with the results obtained using the finite element method (FEM)  considering the material's plastic  properties. This comparison is  conducted on a test problem involving the stress-strain state of an infinitely long strip with a rectangular cross-section subjected to uniformly distributed loading. The FEM solution for this problem is used as a reference result. The calculations are performed with a fixed number of finite elements across the thickness of the  crosssection, as the study establishes that further increasing their number has a negligible impact on the  calculation results. The obtained calculation results allow concluding about the equal convergence rate of polynomials and Fourier series in the considered problem. At the same time, it is worth noting the significant advantage of the semi-analytical finite element method compared to the conventional finite element method. This is because maintaining only five terms in the series expansion ensures solving the problem with the same accuracy as using a nine-node mesh in the grid domain.
FORECASTING THE FINAL RESOURCE OF THE METAL CHIMNEY PIPE OF NON-FRONTER METALLURGY
Authors: Plugin Andrii , Zhvan Viktor , Lobiak Oleksii , Nazarenko Oleksiy Mykolayovich , Mikitas Serhiy
Published: April 2024

A comprehensive study of corrosion processes, damage and load-bearing capacity of a 45-m-high metal smoke pipe, which removes the gas-smoke mixture formed in the technological  processes of non-ferrous metallurgy, was carried out, and a methodology for forecasting its final resource was developed. As a result of the analysis of the composition and temperature-moisture regime of the specified mixture, it was established that it is a gaseous medium aggressive to steel and causes corrosion of the pipe from the inside. As a result of the analysis of the results of the pipe wall thickness measurements, it was established that the corrosion rate was 0.12–0.26 mm/year, which corresponds to the medium aggressive degree of action of the gaseous medium on carbon steel.According to the intensity of corrosion, the pipe is divided into three  conventional zones: the lower non-ventilated stagnation zone of corrosion of medium intensity below the chimney inlet; the average well-ventilated zone of less intense corrosion above the chimney inlet; the upper zone of condensate formation and the most intense corrosion. Analysis of the stress-strain state of the pipe taking into account corrosion damage showed that the most loaded dangerous zone of the structure is the place where the horizontal chimney cuts in, and the bearing capacity of the pipe is provided with a material utilization factor of 0.62–0.65. The limit values of the wall thickness and depth of corrosion damage in the cross-sections, which ensure the fulfillment of the conditions for the bearing capacity, have been determined. Based on the values of the corrosion rate, the time to reach the limit state was determined for all sections. In the lower, middle and upper zones of the pipes, the limit state will be reached after 18, 25 and 9 years, respectively, so without measures for repair and protection, the final resource of the pipe does not exceed 9 years. To increase the final service life of the pipe, it is  recommended to replace the upper part of the pipe up to 18 years, and after 18 years - to protect the inner surface with heat-resistant organic silicon or epoxy enamel. Additional over 18 years of increase in ultimate life will equal the service life of the coating. Provided timely  restoration of the anti-corrosion coating, the final resource of the pipe can be brought to the durability indicators of reinforced concrete and brick pipes of 70-80 years.