bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Notes On Artificial Intelligence And The Rise Of New Images
Authors: Pamela Breda
Published: June 2024

Pamela Breda’s (Digital Arts) contribution "Notes On Artificial Intelligence And The Rise Of New Images" explores how hyper-realistic computer-generated images (CGI) reshape our perception of reality and its implications for human creativity. Her considerations stem from an ongoing interdisciplinary artistic research project that combines positions from visual cultural studies, cognitive psychology, and perceptual theory with historical perspectives. Breda’s contribution reflects on the historical background of CGI, its influence on various domains of individual and collective life, and its philosophical implications, her contribution provides current viewpoints on the position of AI and its past implications.
I Can See Queerly Now. Queer Perspectives On Project Work
Authors: Leo Hosp
Published: June 2024

Leo Hosp (Center Research Focus) widens our perspective through her contribution "I Can See Queerly Now. Queer Perspectives On Project Work", which is a reflection on queer working practices. Hosp intertwines her own experiences of queerness with insights from collaborative project work within the Action for Sustainable Future (ASF) hub. Hosp’s contribution refrains from defining queer research. Instead, it explores different aspects and approaches to deal with an inherently fluid term to propose a queer project work manifesto. Presented as a momentary insight into Hosp’s research, it is not to be understood as a finalized outcome but an open invitation.
Perceived Barriers to Adherence to Standard Precautions among Healthcare Personnel Working in a Teaching Hospital of Palpa District, Nepal
Authors: Garbuja Chandra Kumari , K.C Samikshya , Rana Mohan Singh
Published: June 2024

Introduction: The present study aimed to find out the perceived barriers to adherence to standard precautions among healthcare personnel working in a teaching hospital of Palpa district. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 191 healthcare personnel in April 2019. Barriers to standard precautions adherence were evaluated using ‘Factors Influencing Adherence to Standard Precautions Scale’. Mann Whitney U test and Kruskal Wallis H test were applied to examine the association of selected demographic variables: age, educational background, duration of employment, working areas and having attended trainings related to standard precautions with the perceived barriers to standard precautions adherence. Results: The mean age of participants was 24.87±6.05 years. Most (85.3%) of participants were nurses.  19.9% and 52.4% of participants always performed hand hygiene before and after using personal protective equipment respectively. The subscale scores in leadership and culture of the institute were 14.86±4.21 (possible range 0-24) and 14.59±2.60 (possible range 0-20) respectively. Subscale scores in judgement and contextual cues were 17.49±3.46 (possible range 0-20) and 18.02±5 (possible range 0-24) respectively. Score in justification was 7.52±5.12 (possible range 0-28). Age, educational background and duration of employment had a statistically significant association with subscale scores on justification and perceived culture of the institution. Conclusion: The present study revealed that only 19.9% of the participants would perform hand hygiene before using gloves and 52.4% of participants would do it afterwards. Personal judgement, dependence on contextual cues and inadequate leadership skills were found to be the major barriers to adherence to standard precautions.
Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Hypertension Among Adults in Palpa District, Nepal
Authors: Karki Deelip Kumar , Nepal Samata , Bhandari Keshav Raj
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Hypertension mostly remains asymptomatic when controlled, however, there is always an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and renal failure. The higher the blood pressure, the higher the likelihood of harmful consequences to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, brain, and kidneys. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the adult population. The blood pressure was measured from the left arm, the respondents in sitting posture and arm support at the heart level. Results: The prevalence of hypertension was 22% and higher in people above 60 years of age. The prevalence of hypertension was more in people who had elevated waist to hip ratio (65%) and positive family history (40.8%). The prevalence of hypertension was observed high among diabetics (63.2%) and in smokers (33.3%). Conclusion: The prevalence of hypertension was seen positively associated with increasing age, smoking, alcohol sedentary lifestyle, diabetes, stress, central obesity and >25 BMI.
Maya records of planetary conjunctions in Dresden Codex
Authors: Vondrák J. , Böhm V. , Böhm B.
Published: June 2024

Old Mayas designed a very complicated calendar, and they also recorded
important historical events and astronomical phenomena. Dresden Codex (DC),
one of the four preserved Mayan hieroglyphic literal legacies, contains many
of these, covering the classical period of Maya history. The records of
these events in DC are given in the so-called Long Count (LC), the number of
days elapsed from the origin of Maya chronology. The difference between LC
and Julian Date, used in today's astronomy, is traditionally called
correlation. More than fifty different values of the correlation have been
published so far, and the differences among them can reach up to several
centuries. The value, mostly accepted by Maya historians, is the one by
Goodman-Mart?ez-Thompson (GMT), equal to 584 283 days. It is based mostly
on events extracted from sources of the post-classical period of Maya
history. Brothers B?hm used Maya astronomical records to derive the B?hm
correlation (BB) of 622 261 days. It is in excellent agreement with the
dates of astronomical phenomena recorded in DC. During past decades we
published several papers supporting validity of the BB correlation. They are
based on the records of different astronomical phenomena in DC and stelae,
such as solar eclipses, planetary conjunctions, greatest elongations of
Mercury and Venus from the Sun, or heliacal risings and settings. The
present study is devoted to newly found recorded dates on page D74 of
Dresden Codex. We were able to identify six of them with conjunctions of
planets Venus through Saturn (corresponding to years 491, 495, 496, 501,
531, and 571), when BB correlation was applied.
Implementing online learning of Diagnostic Criteria for the Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) protocol in undergraduate dental education
Authors: Malmberg Jaana , Näpänkangas Ritva , Liljeström Marjo-Riitta , Tanner Johanna , Teerijoki-Oksa Tuija , Suominen Auli , Sipilä Kirsi
Published: June 2024

Introduction: The Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) is part of the undergraduate dental curriculum. Online teaching has nowadays become common also in dentistry.
Objective: To compare undergraduate students’ self-assessed ability and satisfaction with learning DC/TMD Axis I between traditional and online learning and to evaluate the possible gains of online teaching.
Material and Methods: Third-year undergraduate dental students in 2018 (traditional learning, Group 1, n = 43/50) and in 2019 (online learning, Group 2, n = 34/50) at the University of Oulu, Finland evaluated their self-assessed ability and satisfaction with learning DC/TMD clinical examination and diagnostics on a 10-point scale. Additionally, those participating in online courses answered to two open-ended questions; Group 2 (n = 50) and another group from the University of Eastern Finland in 2019 and 2020 (n = 75, Group 3). Total of 105/125 students (84%) responded. Content analysis was used to open-ended responses.
Results: The online course reported significantly higher self-assessed ability in measurements (p = 0.004), identifying referred pain (p = 0.043) and statement for the diagnostics (p = 0.017) and also higher self-assessed satisfaction in measurements (p = 0.046). According to the content analysis, essential gains of online teaching were efficient learning, videos and exercises, and adjustability to own timetable.
Conclusion: The online learning course can be considered as a good option for traditional learning of the DC/TMD protocol.
Negative Health and Environmental Effects of Oil Exploitation in Southern Ijaw, Bayelsa State, Nigeria
Authors: Akagbue Bertha Onyenachi , Popoola Temitope Omolara , Aminu Mu’awiya Baba , Nenger Jerome Aondongu , Babatunde Samuel
Published: June 2024

This research delves into the effects of oil extraction on the ecosystem in Southern Ijaw, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. It specifically examines the degree of degradation, identifies pollutants, and evaluates biodiversity. The water and soil samples taken from the impacted areas have significant pollution, according to the results. According to soil analysis, heavy metal and Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon (TPH) concentrations are high and above legal limits. Elevated TPH levels in water bodies present hazards to both human health and aquatic life. The loss of mangroves and the damage caused by oil spill fires to the vegetation worsen ecological degradation. Air pollution and contaminated water supplies are the main causes of the widespread negative effects on public health, which include respiratory conditions and waterborne infections. The report emphasises how urgently environmental degradation must be stopped, biodiversity must be preserved, and public health must be protected in oil-producing areas like Southern Ijaw.
Solution of Klein-Gordon Equation in F(R) Theory of Gravity
Authors: Romadani Arista
Published: June 2024

The  theory, as a modification of the general relativity theory, is frequently employed as an alternative theory of gravity and offers a promising avenue for addressing the challenges of formulating a quantum gravity theory. In this study, by applying the separation method of time, radial and angular variables, we derived the general solution of the Klein-Gordon equation in a curved space-time using modified Schwarzschild metric. We modified Ricci scalar  form in Einstein’s action principle as a general function of Ricci scalar  and formulated the general Schwarzschild metric. The solution of the time function was analytically obtained in exponential form, and the solution of the angular function in terms of Legendre polynomial depends on azimuthal and magnetic quantum numbers. The radial function in terms of a non-linear second-order differential equation was solved by a numerical method using Python. The solutions described the gravitational effect for a light particle on the area gravitationally has a strong interaction, represented by a spherically symmetric metric. For small  (in Schwarzschild radius), the results analytically show that the gravitational effect in this region is massive. It follows that even light would be drawn into a black hole and unable to escape. For further research, it is expected to extend the Klein-Gordon equation in relativistic quantum mechanics to modified general relativity theory. This theory offers a different way of looking at the effects of gravity in quantum field theory.
Incidental Writing Skills Acquisition Through Using Literature-Based Instruction
Authors: Momani Ebaa Refaie
Published: June 2024

This study delves into the transformative potential of Literature-Based Instruction on the incidental acquisition of writing skills among ESL/EFL students in Salalah, Oman. Acknowledging the pressing need for effective teaching methodologies that bolster writing proficiency, this research employs a mixed-methods approach to evaluate the effectiveness of LBI in enhancing students’ writing abilities. The study involves a sample of 100 intermediate-level students divided into control and experimental groups. The experimental group received instruction through literary texts, while the control group followed a conventional curriculum. Data were collected through pre-tests, post-tests, and observations. The findings reveal that students exposed to LBI demonstrated significantly improved writing fluency, coherence, and grammatical accuracy compared to the control group. Additionally, qualitative data indicate increased student motivation and engagement with the learning material. The study underscores the potential of LBI to foster incidental writing skills acquisition and suggests practical implications for curriculum designers and educators in similar linguistic and cultural contexts. Educators can create a more enriching and effective learning environment that improves language skills and nurtures a lifelong appreciation for literature by integrating literature into language instruction.
EFL Teachers’ Perspectives on the English Textbooks of the Adopted Self-Learning Program in Northern Syria
Authors: Eddin ALNAJJAR Alaa , CİNKARA Emrah
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the perspectives of the English language teachers who teach the adopted Self-Learning Program English Textbooks in North-west Syria by evaluating the English textbooks. It analyses the effectiveness and suitability of this curriculum in non-formal education settings considering the crisis context in Syria. So, to get an actual evaluation of the English textbooks, teachers proved their viewpoints on the context of teaching and the students’ educational levels during war conditions. In this mixed method research, the first tool was a questionnaire with 49 items distributed into five structured dimensions: layout and design, the objectives of the textbook, teaching methods and activities, and language skills. The second tool focused on the qualitative data obtained from interviews with five open-ended questions. A total of respondents from 106 English language teachers in the northern Syria crisis region, 43 females and 63 males, and five separate interviews. Over 60% of teachers believe that the adapted Self-Learning Program English textbooks are appropriate to the context and include a precise sequence of English units that fit children’s needs in northern Syrian crisis contexts.
Influence of Education Level on the Employability of Citizens in Modern China
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Wu Zeren
Published: June 2024

In modern conditions of the information society, the need for new-level professionals is increasing, which dictates the need to ensure that educational systems meet the needs of the economy. Requirements for personnel in manufacturing companies are gradually escalating, prompting a majority of candidates to pursue higher education. This study aims to elucidate the relationship between the level of professional training in China and the quality of citizens’ employment. During the two-stage survey, a direct correlation of these indicators was revealed. The study reveals that graduates with an academic degree experience the highest quality of employment, while bachelor’s and master’s degree holders often find themselves in situations where employers do not consider their interests. It also highlights the absence of a functional career guidance and employment monitoring system in universities, which results in education being disconnected from the real labor market. Conclusion emphasizes the necessity to strengthen legislative frameworks to prevent differentiation among professionals in terms of employment quality. It suggests improving the employment mechanism under state macro-control and optimizing university practices in career guidance. The essence of these enhancements should focus on updating and individualizing educational content to better align with students’ specialties.
Technocenological Approach in Modern Scientific Research: Essence and Advantages
Authors:   National Research University “Moscow Power Engineering Institute, Lozenko Valeriy K. , Gorbenko Anna V. ,   National Research University “Moscow Power Engineering Institute
Published: June 2024

This article delves into a comprehensive study substantiating the development of the power system based on the technocenological approach. The aim of the study is to generalize accumulated scientific experience and knowledge from the standpoint of the technocenological approach, applying it to the economic aspects of power system operation. It also focuses on developing new methods and approaches to assessing the economic efficiency of energy enterprises within the framework of sustainable economic development. As a research task, the authors define an attempt to examine and analyze the accumulated scientific knowledge, methodological approaches and applied techniques in the field of assessment, analysis and forecasting of the formation and development of the electric power complex amidst evolutionary transformations of technical systems. The issues of the need to create modern models, methods and mechanisms for the formation, planning and forecasting in the field of economics of electric power systems are considered. This problem is proposed to be solved by generalizing and synthesizing the accumulated scientific knowledge, developing methodology based on the cenological theory. In conclusion, the authors justify the idea of further developing and enhancing the modern methodological apparatus in order to scientifically substantiate and assess the economic efficiency of innovative technologies in the electric power industry.
Modern Aspects of Management of the Use of Secondary Raw Materials in Russia and Abroad
Authors:   Moscow Financial and Industrial University “Synergy”, Knazev Nikolay V.
Published: June 2024

This article highlights the current state of secondary materials management on a global scale, focusing on leading world economies and the Russian Federation. Based on the analysis of modern literature, the main characteristics, content, as well as key factors directly affecting this market are fixed, with specific examples. The article demonstrates the results of a logical and simulation analysis of the legal aspects concerning the utilization of secondary raw materials, including their classification by origin, toxicity and methods of waste application. It is noted that on a global scale, there is a rethinking of waste processing issues, with management tools, particularly the regulatory framework, undergoing changes, and technologies being in a state of permanent improvement. In conclusion, the management of secondary raw materials is undergoing significant transformation globally, driven by regulatory changes, technological advancements, and evolving consumer preferences. Moving forward, it is essential to prioritize sustainable practices and collaborative efforts to achieve effective resource management and environmental conservation.
Stakeholders’ Attitudes toward Digital Transformation in Early Childhood Education
Authors:   Ural Federal University named after the First President of Russia B.N. Yeltsin, Putimtseva Kristina R.
Published: June 2024

This article aims to elucidate the perspectives of parents and educators regarding the digitization of early childhood education. Through an author-conducted study comprising two phases of semi-structured interviews with representatives of supplementary preschool education institutions in the Sverdlovsk region (2021: n = 15, 2023: n = 10) and parents (2023: n = 10), alongside an online survey of preschool teachers in the Sverdlovsk region (2023: n = 416), discrepancies in opinions among respondents concerning the impact of digital technologies on minors’ development were identified. Multimedia technologies are widely utilized in kindergartens, with the majority of teachers (90 %) expressing a positive attitude toward digitization. However, teachers in supplementary education possess greater autonomy in selecting programs and teaching methods and exhibit a more cautious approach toward digitization. Parents express concern about their children’s excessive consumption of digital content, but do not set the necessary restrictions on their own. The issue of fostering digital hygiene in children remains pertinent, necessitating joint efforts from all stakeholders in the educational process to mitigate the negative consequences of societal digitization.
An overview of the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in higher education
Authors: Wan Ismail Wan Saiful ‘Azzam , Awang Nur Amalina , Mohd Pauzi Nooradzlina
Published: June 2024

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in higher education has the potential to revolutionize teaching and learning. However, there is a lack of pedagogical integration when using these tools, which hinders their full potential. This paper provides an overview of the research on AI applications in higher education and highlights the challenges of using AI in the classroom. The study will also look at the ethical issues that occur when using artificial intelligence in higher education, as well as the benefits of this technology and how it impacts student- teacher interaction in online learning environments. The impact of AI on student-teacher interaction in online learning environments is also observed. AI systems have the potential to affect the way student-teacher interaction occurs, but there can be barriers to the effective use of AI systems due to students’ unrealistic expectations and misunderstandings about AI. More research and exploration are needed to fully understand the potential and consequences of AI in educational settings. In conclusion, it is crucial to carefully weigh the benefits and challenges of incorporating AI tools into the education system. It is important to note that AI should be used as a tool to enhance education and support teachers, rather than replacing human educators. Further research, teacher training, and fostering AI literacy are necessary to fully harness the potential of AI in education and create meaningful learning experiences for students.
Implikasi Nilai Konsumen terhadap Kepuasan Konsumen Ditinjau dari Kualitas Produk dan Saluran Distribusi Koran di Era Digital
Authors: Asmari Andri
Published: June 2024

Sebagai mahluk sosial dalam mencari berbagai informasi, masyarakat memiliki berbagai pilihan, terlebih lagi di era digital seperti sekarang ini terjadi perubahan kebiasaan masyarakat dalam mengonsumsi informasi melalui media, akibat dari tingginya penggunaan internet dan media sosial yang membuat akses pencarian informasi menjadi lebih mudah. Hal ini tentu saja berdampak pada penurunan konsumsi minat baca di media massa versi cetak yang pada akhirnya menyebabkan banyak perusahaan media cetak/ koran menutup usaha cetak mereka. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk menguji dan menganalisis implikasi nilai konsumen terhadap kepuasan konsumen ditinjau dari kualitas produk dan saluran distribusi dari para pembaca koran cetak Harian Umum Pikiran Rakyat Bandung di era digital. Peneliti menggunakan teknik purposive sampling untuk menentukan sampel penelitian, alat ukur berupa kuesioner yang dihasilkan dari studi lapangan (field reseach). Pengujian dilakukan dengan menggunakan analisis jalur (path analysis) dengan bantuan aplikasi SPSS. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa variabel kualitas produk dan saluran distribusi berpengaruh secara simultan dan signifikan terhadap nilai konsumen. Sedangkan secara parsial kualitas produk memiliki pengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap nilai konsumen, saluran distribusi memiliki pengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap nilai konsumen, dan variabel nilai konsumen memiliki pengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap kepuasan konsumen.
Pengaruh Modal Usaha, Lama Usaha, Tenaga Kerja dan Bahan Baku terhadap Pendapatan UMKM Industri di Kabupaten Ponorogo
Authors: Methasari Yasiinta Nur , Wafirotin Khusnatul Zulfa , Muntiah Nur Sayidayul
Published: June 2024

Pada umumnya sektor industri mempunyai hambatan seperti modal yang terbatas. Tersedianya modal dalam jumlah yang besar, akan memperlancar produksi yang pada akhirnya akan meningkatkan produksi serta meningkatkan jumlah pendapatan usaha. Permodalan merupakan faktor penting yang sangat diperlukan demi keberlangsungan usaha. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh modal usaha, lama usaha, tenaga kerja dan bahan baku secara bersama-sama terhadap pendapatan UMKM sektor industri di Kabupaten Ponorogo. Menggunakan data primer yang diperoleh langsung dari responden penelitian yaitu para pemilik UMKM sektor industri di Kabupaten Ponorogo sebanyak 150 UMKM. Jumlah sampel dalam penelitian ini adalah 150 responden.  Metode pengambilan sampel menggunakan metode purposive sampling. Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan kuesioner. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan (1) Modal usaha memiliki pengaruh signifikan terhadap pendapatan. (2) Lama usaha memiliki pengaruh signifikan terhadap pendapatan. (3) Tenaga kerja secara parsial berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap pendapatan. (4) Bahan baku secara parsial berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap pendapatan. (5) Modal usaha, lama usaha, tenaga kerja dan bahan baku berpengaruh signifikan terhadap pendapatan di Kabupaten Ponorogo.
INVESTIGATION OF THE EFFECT OF TEACHING THE SIXTH CLASS ELECTRICITY TRANSMISSION UNIT WITH REACT STRATEGY ON ACADEMIC SUCCESS OF STUDENTS
Authors: Güneş Latif , Yılmazlar Mustafa
Published: June 2024

Many studies are conducted to increase people's academic success. The effects of the teaching strategies and techniques implemented in the class on the school performance of the individual are scientifically examined. With the data got from the course, the necessary services are provided so as to increase the individual’s study success. This study inspected the consequence of the REACT strategy and coursework on student academic performance. A quasi-experimental plan with control team was implemented in this study. In this research’s sample, 32 students are studying in branch 6 of a secondary school in a territory of Sakarya in the 2021-2022 education year. The study used the 6th Grade Science Class 7th Unit Research Test developed by the researcher for a data collection device. The statistical program SPSS was conducted for data analysis. Pre-test, retention test, post-test, also delayed retention test were conducted to both groups in the study. While teaching with lesson plans according to the REACT strategy was carried out for 3 weeks in the experimental team; On the control team side, the lessons were conducted with lesson plans consistent with the current curriculum. When the data acquired was evaluated, it was defined that there was no statistically notable difference in the control and experimental teams’s pupils’ pre-test points, and that there was a statistically meaningful difference in the post-test, retention test also delayed retention test points in benefit of the experimental team.
On some Turonian and Coniacian ammonites from the Czech Republic
Authors: Kennedy William James , Summesberger Herbert
Published: June 2024

Ammonites, chiefly from the Upper Turonian Prionocyclus germari Zone, the Lower Coniacian part of the Forresteria (Harleites) petrocoriensis Zone, and the Lower Coniacan Peroniceras (Peroniceras) tridorsatum Zone from the Czech Republic are figured and described, including classic material originally described by Fritsch (1872–1898) and Jahn (1892, 1896). In all, 25 species are recognised, including two, Pseudojacobites sp. and Muniericeras sp., that represent genera previously not known from the area.
Wykorzystanie skaningowej mikroskopii elektronowej w badaniach składników żużli Zn-Pb na przykładzie żużli ze zwałowiska w Bykowinie (Ruda Śląska)
Authors: Jonczy Iwona , Filipowicz Krzysztof
Published: June 2024

Skaningowa mikroskopia elektronowa (SEM) pozwala uzyskać wysokorozdzielcze obrazy powierzchni próbek za pomocą rejestracji elektronów wtórnych (SE) lub elektronów wstecznie rozproszonych (BSE), charakteryzujące się głębią ostrości oraz wysoką rozdzielczością. Obserwacje przy wykorzystaniu skaningowej mikroskopii elektronowej znajdują szerokie zastosowanie w wielu dziedzinach nauki, autorzy pokazali, że skaningowa mikroskopia elektronowa to także jedna z kluczowych technik wykorzystywana w badaniach składników budujących żużle hutnicze. Badania przeprowadzono dla trzech rodzajów żużli po produkcji Zn i Pb pobranych ze starego zwałowiska w Rudzie Śląskiej – Bykowinie. Dokonano identyfikacji składników budujących żużle, scharakteryzowano morfologię faz krystalicznych, oznaczono ich skład chemiczny, jak również skład chemiczny szkliwa. Na podstawie przeprowadzonych obserwacji w żużlach wyróżniono dwa obszary o zróżnicowanej morfologii; obok fragmentów o chropowatej strukturze z widocznymi zarysami krystalitów składników fazowych, wyróżniono zeszklony materiał o gładniej, niespękanej powierzchni, w obrębie którego występują liczne pory o regularnych, okrągłych kształtach. Stwierdzono, że w otoczeniu dominującego szkliwa (bogatego przede wszystkim w Si, Ca i Al), we wszystkich rodzajach żużli można wyróżnić dobrze wykształcone kryształy składników fazowych: w żużlu nr 1 są to krzemiany Fe-Mg, w żużlu nr 2 – glinokrzemiany Ti i K, natomiast w żużlu nr 3 stwierdzono obecność drobnych kryształów o pokroju igiełkowym zawierających Al i Si, co wskazuje na obecność mullitu. Podczas składowania na zwałowisku, w porach żużli, stanowiących pozostałość po odgazowania stopu żużlowego w trakcie jego chłodzenia, licznie krystalizują minerały wtórne – zidentyfikowano wśród nich hematyt oraz baryt.
Spatial sound and emotions: A literature survey on the relationship between spatially rendered audio and listeners’ affective responses
Authors: Stefanowska Antonina , Zieliński Sławomir K.
Published: June 2024

With the development of the entertainment industry, the need for immersive and emotionally impactful sound design has emerged. Utilization of spatial sound is potentially the next step to improve the audio experiences for listeners in terms of their emotional engagement. Hence, the relationship between spatial audio characteristics and emotional responses of the listeners has been the main focus of several recent studies. This paper provides a systematic overview of the above reports, including the analysis of commonly utilized methodology and technology. The survey was undertaken using four literature repositories, namely, Google Scholar, Scopus, IEEE Xplore, and AES E-Library. The overviewed papers were selected according to the empirical validity and quality of the reported studies. According to the survey outcomes, there is growing evidence of a positive influence of the selected spatial audio characteristics on the listeners’ affective responses. However, more data is required to build reliable, universal, and useful models explaining the above relationship. Furthermore, the two research trends on this topic were identified. Namely, the studies undertaken so far can be classified as either technology-oriented or technology-agnostic, depending on the research questions or experimental factors examined. Prospective future research directions regarding this topic are identified and discussed. They include better utilization of scene-based paradigms, affective computing techniques, and exploring the emotional effects of dynamic changes in spatial audio scenes.
Switching-mode audio amplifier based on a ΔΣ A/D converter
Authors: Jabłoński Jarosław , Lewandowski Marcin
Published: June 2024

The article describes the design and implementation of a modular hardware platform intended for testing and measuring various configurations of switching-mode audio amplifiers based on sigma-delta modulation. Two single-channel power amplifier modules were designed and manufactured, along with a stereophonic module serving as the basic source of modulated signals. Additionally, measurements were conducted on the fundamental parameters of the completed amplifier, such as harmonic distortion level, dynamic range, and output power. The developed platform serves as a foundation for modifications and further advancement in the technology of building switching-mode audio amplifiers.
Non-intrusive method for audio quality assessment of lossy-compressed music recordings using convolutional neural networks
Authors: Kasperuk Aleksandra , Zieliński Sławomir Krzysztof
Published: June 2024

Most of the existing algorithms for the objective audio quality assessment are intrusive, as they require access both to an unimpaired reference recording and an evaluated signal. This feature excludes them from many practical applications. In this paper, we introduce a non-intrusive audio quality assessment method. The proposed method is intended to account for audio artefacts arising from the lossy compression of music signals. During its development, 250 high-quality uncompressed music recordings were collated. They were subsequently processed using the selection of five popular audio codecs, resulting in the repository of 13,000 audio excerpts representing various levels of audio quality. The proposed non-intrusive method was trained with the data obtained employing a well-established intrusive model (ViSQOL v3). Next, the performance of the trained model was evaluated utilizing the quality scores obtained in the subjective listening tests undertaken remotely over the Internet. The listening tests were carried out in compliance with the MUSHRA recommendation (ITU-R BS.1534-3). In this study, the following three convolutional neural networks were compared: (1) a model employing 1D convolutional filters, (2) an Inception-based model, and (3) a VGG-based model. The last-mentioned model outperformed the model employing 1D convolutional filters in terms of predicting the scores from the listening tests, reaching a correlation value of 0.893. The performance of the Inceptionbased model was similar to that of the VGG-based model. Moreover, the VGG-based model outperformed the method employing a stacked gated-recurrent-unit-based deep learning framework, recently introduced by Mumtaz et al. (2022).
Penal Response to Less Serious Drug Distribution Offenses: The Case of Lithuania in the Regional Context
Authors: Bikelis Skirmantas , Lankauskas Mindaugas
Published: June 2024

Drug distribution is considered one of the most serious crimes in general and the most serious drug offense in particular. Drug distribution may cover behavior of very different levels of seriousness, ranging from the social supply of small quantities of illicit drugs in friend circles to international drug trafficking organized by powerful global crime syndicates. The article explores the criminological contexts of less serious drug distribution and penal frameworks of the relevant countries in the Baltic region. The article argues for a more nuanced penal approach to such offenses in the Lithuanian penal law.
CREEP Coefficient and Specific Creep of Engineered Cementitious Composite -Bendable Concrete
Authors: Al-Mulla Ikram Faraoun , Al-Ameeri Abbas Salim , Al-Attar Tareq Salih
Published: June 2024

Creep is a complex behavior of concrete since it induces different stages of response under loading and unloading with time. It represents the time-dependent strain as a result of a constant sustained load applied with time. In cementitious materials such as engineered cementitious composite concrete, ECC, the loaded cement paste is the principal source of creep strain. Therefore, investigating the overall creep behavior, under the loading and unloading stages, will be beneficial in providing data for the performance of ECC concrete. The test for compressional creep strain is done according to the ASTM C- 512 under controlled temperature (21 oC) and relative humidity (40%). In this research, the loading stage lasted for 9 months, and the unloading stage lasted 3 months. The total creep strain, creep coefficient, and specific creep were recorded for six ECC concrete mixes. The mixes have two strength levels, 30 and 60 MPa at 28 days, and contain polypropylene and polyvinyl alcohol fibers. Results revealed significant enhancement, and lower creep behavior, in mixes including fibers compared to plain mixes. The best promising results for the creep coefficient and specific creep were recorded when using mixes of 60 MPa containing polyvinyl alcohol fibers compared to plain mixes.
Investigating the Dynamic Creep of Polymer Modified Hot Mix Asphalt
Authors: Suleiman Ghassan , Aodah Haider Habeeb. , Hanandeh Shadi , Ergun Murat , Salim Reem Abu , Qtiashat Deya
Published: June 2024

Jordan's road network continues to deteriorate as a consequence of the continuous increase in traffic and the absence of adequate maintenance work. The primary objective of this study was to enhance HMA performance by using polymer-modified asphalt mixtures. The polymer modifier known commercially as Eastman (EE-2) was mixed with binder penetration grade (60–70) at a ratio of 12%. In order to investigate the performance of polymer, the dynamic creep, the resilient modulus and the stability-flow tests were performed. Marshall Mix design was utilized to prepare a total of 50 samples, of which 20 were used to determine the optimal binder content, and the remaining samples were used to determine the effect of EE-2 modifier on asphalt mixtures. The results showed that the optimal asphalt content was 4.57 percent and revealed that the addition of EE-2 polymer to asphalt cement contributed to the production of a variety of desirable properties. The most important indicator of these developments is increased rutting resistance. For instance, the total permanent deformation has decreased by 87% (8500 to 1000 μm). Conversely, addition of EE-2 has resulted in a threefold increase in the resilience modulus (from 3632 to 10590 MPa). Finally, effect of the EE-2 polymer on the stability was demonstrated by increasing the stability value by about 52%
Family resilience of cancer patients: a concept analysis
Authors: Han Ge-Ge
Published: June 2024

Objective

The concept of family resilience of cancer patients was discussed through literature review, which provided reference for nursing of cancer patients.

Methods

China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Database, SinoMed, PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase were systematically searched, and the concept analysis method proposed by Walker and Avant was adopted.

Results

In this study, we defined the concept of family resilience, identified attributes, and analyzed the antecedents and consequences. The proposed operational definition of family resilience was: After a family member is diagnosed with cancer, the whole family can actively explore its own unique internal and external resources and advantages, strengthen self-regulation, jointly cope with the crisis by establishing close family relationships, providing mutual support to family members, and interacting with the outside world.

Conclusions

The definition of family resilience of cancer patients is conducive to the development of measurement tools and the improvement of family outcomes of adult cancer patients by intervening family resilience factors.
Core competencies and perceived training needs of nurses in the background of Internet plus nursing service: a qualitative descriptive study†
Authors: Zhang Qiang-Hui-Zi , Liu Wei-Wei , Cheng Zhen-Zhen
Published: June 2024

Background

The Internet plus nursing service program is being piloted in China, which has become a new home nursing service model led by nurses. To enable safe and effective homecare service delivery, nurses working in the program need a high level of competency. However, the content of these core competencies and the training needs of nurses for Internet plus nursing services are still unknown.

Aim

To describe nurses’ perceptions of core competencies and training needs to work in the Internet plus nursing service program, thereby providing a reference for the development of training programs.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive study using semi-structured interviews was conducted on 15 nurses with experience of working in the Internet plus nursing service program. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim, and the data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

Core competencies involved comprehensive assessment competence, direct care practice competence, health education and consulting competence, risk estimation and response competence, and communication competence. Training needs involved complex operational items, knowledge of chronic disease management, professional communication, risk identification and response, nursing standards, norms, and procedures, and utilization of information technology.

Conclusions

The training system may be developed based on nurses’ core competencies and their training needs to promote professional development of the Internet plus nursing service.
Assessing HR department effectiveness: managerial perspective in Polish firms
Authors: Majowska Magdalena
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to determine variations in how different groups of stakeholders, such as top managers, HR managers, and line managers, perceive HR department effectiveness. Additionally, it explores the relation between different views on HR department effectiveness and multidimensional firm performance, encompassing proximal and distal outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

The study comprised 150 Polish firms, with questionnaires collected from top managers, HR managers, and line managers within each organization. The analysis involved regression analysis and testing for two regression coefficients to confirm the hypotheses.

Findings

Research highlighted variations in how stakeholders perceive HR department effectiveness and its influence on organizational outcomes. Notably, top managers exhibited a strong association between HR department effectiveness and firm performance, especially concerning organizational and market performance. Surprisingly, assessments by HR managers and line managers did not display a stronger correlation with proximal outcomes, such as employee productivity and firm growth, compared to top managers, indicating a convergence in perspectives between different managerial levels.

Originality/value

Viewed through a managerial perspective, this paper emphasizes the significance of (dis)agreement in perceptions of HR department effectiveness at various hierarchical levels. In particular, this article enhances our knowledge of how top managers perceive HR department effectiveness, which has been relatively underexplored in prior research. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of top management as a critical stakeholder in HRM.
Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR) and Mixed Reality (MR), A Necessity of The Modern Diving Technology
Authors: Agape Adriana-Georgiana , Stoenciu Daniel , Chircu Cosmin-Constantin
Published: June 2024

The paper looks at three emerging technologies, namely virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) and mixed media (MX), and explains how they are transforming the way we interact with the digital and real worlds. Each technology is defined and the main features are highlighted for comparison. VR gives us a complete and immersive experience in the virtual world, AR adds digital elements to the real world, and MX integrates both media to create an interactive experience where virtual and real elements interact and coexist. Within the work a number of equipment or applications incorporating these emerging technologies were reviewed to highlight how they could assist divers to train under controlled conditions and simulate real diving conditions in hazardous or complex environments. The implementation of technologies such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) and mixed media (MX) within the Diving Center of the Romanian Naval Forces would bring many advantages and significant improvements in terms of the training capacity, operational efficiency and safety of military divers. These technologies would not only modernize training and operations, but also strengthen the ability to intervene and react in critical situations.
Overview on Sea Drones Evolution and their Use in Modern Warfare
Authors: Bursuc Andrei , Munteanu Cristian , Rus Simona
Published: June 2024

The unjustified invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation created the necessary conditions for the development and testing of technologies in the operational space of the traditional war theater. Considering that Ukraine has lost a large part of its naval forces in the first days of the conflict, there was an essential need to develop new technologies that would allow this state to defend itself. Moreover, given the innovative character of the surface and underwater technologies developed by the Ukrainians, they were able to be used for offensive actions, which surprised the naval forces of the Russian Federation repeatedly. Access to operational vehicles was made easier and more accessible with the introduction of smaller, lighter and less expensive equipment. The article proposes an analysis of the evolution of naval drones and how they were used in the most recent conflict in the Black Sea area. The main objective of the study is to identify and present the main types of underwater technologies that have enabled the development of naval drones, the analysis of how they have been used in a contemporary conflict and the recent evolution of their actions. The conclusions of the study are focused on the potential use of these technologies and how they can be used in combination with other combat technologies in armed conflicts of various types.
Annual survival rates of satellite-tracked adult European honey buzzards (Pernis apivorus) based on the Kaplan-Meier estimator and its probabilistic extension
Authors: Meyburg Bernd-Ulrich , Gries Benno
Published: June 2024

The annual survival rate of adult raptors is an important parameter in population dynamics and is needed to derive measures for population stability and conservation management. Here we studied adult European honey buzzards (Pernis apivorus), a migratory land bird, using satellite telemetry throughout the year for up to three years. We used the Kaplan-Meier method of survival estimation in combination with the distribution density function for survival. This function describes the number of survivors N as a function of time t, based on the survival rate SR. This probabilistic extension of the Kaplan-Meier estimator results in a simple method that does not require a commercial statistical program to extract survival rates from event time analysis. It can be applied to analysing any event-time data, not only telemetry results but also ring recoveries, as demonstrated using European honey buzzards as an example. The average adult survival rate in our study, based on permanent satellite telemetry monitoring, was 0.44/year (linear correlation factor f = 0.99). This implies an adult mortality rate of 0.56 per year. It seems that particularly unfavourable weather conditions during the crossing of the Sahara and the Mediterranean led to this high mortality rate of our birds during migration from 2001 to 2011, but is likely to vary greatly from year to year. However, the loss rate in the wintering area was also high, at one third of the birds. More honey buzzards need to be tracked throughout the year to assess factors affecting survival and threats to populations adequately.