bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Model Course Review Horay Berbantuan Tabel Perkalian terhadap Pemahaman Matematis Siswa Kelas III SD
Authors: Saleha Zahra , Maulana Maulana , Sunaengsih Cucun
Published: September 2024

Understanding mathematical concepts is a skill in interpreting a mathematical concept using one's own language. It refers to the ability of students to explain a mathematical concept. In terms of understanding mathematical concepts, students still struggle with grasping the concept and properties of multiplication. This study aims to investigate whether the Course Review Horay learning model affects the mathematical concept understanding of third-grade elementary school students. The research employs an experimental method with a quasi-experimental design using nonequivalent control groups. The respondents in this study were 60 students, with 30 students in the experimental group and 30 students in the control group. The results indicate that there is an effect of the Course Review Horay learning model on the mathematical concept understanding of third-grade elementary school students, specifically regarding the properties of multiplication. This is evidenced by the gain in pre-test and post-test scores being 0.69, which falls into the moderate category, indicating an improvement in understanding after using the Course Review Horay model with multiplication tables.
Kepribadian Individu dan Kesiapan untuk Perubahan Organisasi
Authors: Sari Leni , Mustika Meiviana , Zaitul Zaitul
Published: September 2024

Change is necessary for organizations that want to develop in a dynamic business environment. In the context of the creative industry, such as kebaya design, readiness for change is a key factor determining the success of adaptation to market dynamics and trend developments. This research examines the relationship between personality attitudes and readiness for change in kebaya designer organizations in Indonesia. Using a quantitative approach, this study involved 57 kebaya designers as respondents, who were determined through purposive sampling techniques. The results of the research show that personality dimensions, namely openness to experience, emotional stability and extroversion, have a positive effect on readiness for change. At the same time, the dimensions of agreeableness and conscientiousness do not affect readiness for change. This research provides deeper insight into the role of personality in readiness for change and practical insights for the development of change management strategies in the creative industry.
Pengaruh Kondisi Ekonomi Keluarga terhadap Motivasi Belajar Mahasiswa Program Studi Pendidikan Ekonomi FKIP Universitas Nias
Authors: Gulo Dewi Juliana , Telaumbanua Wahyutra Aldiman , Laoli Eka Septianti , Lase Asali
Published: September 2024

This study aims to analyze the effect of family economic conditions on student learning motivation in the Economics Education Study Program at FKIP, Nias University. This study used a descriptive quantitative approach with a population of 190 students, and through the simple random sampling method and the Slovin formula, a sample of 66 people was obtained. Data were collected using questionnaires and documentation, which were then analyzed through validity, reliability, correlation coefficient, coefficient of determination, simple linear regression, and hypothesis testing. The results showed that the questionnaire used had high reliability, with an rii value for variable X of 0.776 and variable Y of 0.814. Simple linear regression analysis resulted in the equation Y = 46.83 + 0.218X, which shows that family economic conditions have a positive effect on learning motivation. The coefficient of determination of 4.84% shows that the effect of family economic conditions on learning motivation is low but significant. Hypothesis testing shows that tcount = 1.804 is greater than ttable = 1.669, so Ha is accepted and Ho is rejected. In conclusion, there is a significant influence between family economic conditions on student learning motivation in the Economic Education Study Program at FKIP Nias University Academic Year 2023/2024.
Analisis Pengaruh Karakteristik Produk terhadap Niat Beli Ulang Pelanggan menggunakan Metode Regresi Logistik Biner
Authors: Faisal Faisal , Sari Irma Ratna , Saraswati Iska , Heikal Jerry
Published: September 2024

The internet and television have become an inseparable part of the daily life of modern society. The function of the internet covers various aspects, from communication, entertainment, education, to work. On the other hand, television remains a medium of entertainment and information for many people. This study aims to identify dependent variables and determine the accuracy of the model used by data processing using the SPSS program to find out whether customers will make a repeat purchase or not. Based on the above reasons, the analysis will be conducted to assess the influence of product characteristics on the customer's desire to repurchase the add-on or upgrade the product currently in use, in an internet and TV service company and to identify and analyze the product characteristics that most significantly affect the customer's decision to purchase the same product again in the future. The method used is binary logistic regression. The results of the study showed a significant influence between the independent variable (X) internet speed used, the type of product used, and the type of network used on the dependent variable (Y) of the decision to rebuy (add on). For the results of the binary logistic regression classification table, it is known that the results of prediction and observation are 325 customers who do not Rebuy (add on), while those who are predicted and observed do Rebuy (add on) as many as 293 customers. The remaining 214 and 168 customers produced differences between prediction and observation, so that the percentage accuracy of the regression model in this study was obtained of 61.8%. Based on the results of binary regression analysis, we found that internet speed is a very influential factor for customers in purchasing additional products. Creating variations of additional products for internet speed upgrades is crucial and should be better considered by the product team. The right variations of speed upgrades are a solution to increasing the sales of additional products.
Eksplorasi Komitmen Perubahan Organisasi pada Penyuluh Keluarga Berencana: Peran Perilaku Mengambil Resiko sebagai Determinant dan Kompleksitas Tugas sebagai Variabel Mediasi
Authors: Fasni Ahmad , Febrimeidori Febrimeidori , Zaitul Zaitul
Published: September 2024

This study aims to analyze the impact of risk-taking behavior on the commitment to organizational change among family planning extension workers and to examine the mediating role of task complexity in this relationship. The research was conducted among family planning extension workers in Padang City, West Sumatra Province. The final sample consisted of seventy-seven family planning extension workers who were selected randomly. Data collection was carried out through questionnaires and analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The results indicate that risk-taking behavior has a positive and significant effect on the commitment to organizational change among family planning extension workers. Additionally, task complexity was found to partially mediate the relationship between risk-taking behavior and commitment to organizational change. Higher levels of risk-taking behavior were associated with greater commitment to organizational change, with task complexity serving as a mediating variable. The implications of this study suggest the need to enhance risk-taking behavior and adaptation skills among family planning extension workers in order to address increasingly complex tasks and to foster their commitment to organizational change.
Else Hoff’s (fl. 1907–1925) collection of birds from the island of New Britain, Melanesia, with notes on the possibly extinct rail Gymnocrex plumbeiventris intactus (Aves: Rallidae)
Authors: Mlíkovský Jiří
Published: September 2024

A collection of 29 birds from the island of New Britain is described. It was made by Else Hoff in 1908 and perhaps in surrounding years, but certainly before 1927, and is now deposited in the National Museum in Praha, Czechia.
Disciplinary responsibility of Judges in Spain (based on the materials of the working visit of the members of the High Council of justice to the General Council of the Judiciary of Spain)
Authors: Melnik Oleksiy , Rybalko Volodymyr
Published: September 2024

The article deals with the legal regulation of disciplinary liability of judges in Spain, focusing on the importance of conducting comparative studies of the institute of disciplinary liability of judges and the adoption of the best practices countries of the European Union, and the author emphasizes the importance of a thorough analysis of of the disciplinary practice of the High Council of Justice.

The author establishes that the Judicial Inspection Service of the General Council of the Judiciary of Spain has functions which are not provided for by Ukrainian legislation. It collects and provides information on the current situation in the courts (there are software applications for this purpose). The service prevents problems in the work of the judiciary by proposing specific action plans, monitoring the most important aspects of the organization and functioning of the judiciary, as well as the reasons that explain the current situation in each of them, and proposing any improvements that it deems necessary. For this purpose, it has the right to conduct on-site and online inspections.
Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Sphere of the Judiciary and the Perspectives for Future Research
Authors: Hachkevych Andriy
Published: September 2024

Artificial intelligence tools are increasingly common in the judiciary. While robot judges have not been invented yet, introducing new AI technologies is spreading and contributing to the transformation of court activities. This article discusses AI's impact on the judiciary and its potential influence on future research, aiming to improve current legislation. The author outlines two key areas of influence: the implementation of AI in professional tasks and the increasing awareness about AI.

Artificial intelligence in the judiciary is expected to lead to more effective legal proceedings and ensure non-bias by excluding biases caused by inappropriate training data. Interest in this topic is driven by the desire to find potential areas for improving judges' activities, although artificial intelligence is not anticipated to replace them.

The author describes different ways in which AI can impact the judiciary. These include using AI as a support tool for making legally binding decisions, taking on secondary tasks in place of judges, strengthening reliability and enhancing security in adopting modern technologies for legal proceedings, and increasing awareness of artificial intelligence. Further development and implementation of AI technologies may result in biased outcomes, external interference, and errors, highlighting the need for future research.

This article explains why artificial intelligence in the judiciary requires more attention. Many questions still remain open, such as the legal support of innovative technologies for secondary tasks and guarantees for following generally accepted ethical principles of AI when used by judges. Certainly, scientists and researchers should promote new possibilities for the judiciary by developing and enhancing special software for this field.

Key words: artificial intelligence, AI tools, artificial intelligence in the judiciary, transformation of the judiciary, generative artificial intelligence technologies, biased outcomes, human judges, awareness of AI, reliable AI.
La Aplicación de la Tecnología Blockchain en el Sistema de Salud Colombiano
Authors: Rodríguez Guerrero Tania Valentina , Galindo Ávila German David , Ruiz Garcia Luz Amparo
Published: September 2024

La seguridad y el acceso a los datos son cruciales en el sistema de salud colombiano debido a la naturaleza sensible de la información médica. La ley estatutaria 1751 de 2015 establece que la historia clínica del paciente debe ser privada y solo accesible con su consentimiento, salvo excepciones legales. En este contexto, la tecnología blockchain, con su red descentralizada y segura, emerge como una alternativa prometedora para el almacenamiento y gestión de datos de salud. Su aplicación en el almacenamiento de datos genéticos por Nebula Genomics demuestra su potencial en la protección de información sensible. Blockchain podría revolucionar el sector salud al ofrecer una plataforma segura para almacenar datos médicos, compartir información solo con los autorizados y promover un sistema más transparente e inmutable. Además, podría mejorar la eficiencia administrativa, proporcionar a los investigadores acceso a datos históricos no identificables y permitir a los pacientes monetizar el acceso a sus datos mediante contratos inteligentes. La integración con sensores IoT también puede asegurar la integridad de la cadena de frío en la logística de medicamentos, sangre y órganos. Esta investigación explora la viabilidad de blockchain en el sistema de salud colombiano mediante un enfoque cualitativo y cuantitativo, analizando los conceptos de blockchain y NFT, sus características de acceso, costos de implementación y seguridad. Se identifican fortalezas y debilidades del sistema actual y se evalúa si blockchain puede solucionar las deficiencias existentes, incluyendo un análisis de hackeos como el de EPS Sanitas en 2022. La metodología incluye un estudio exploratorio mixto con revisión de documentos, informes gubernamentales y datos estadísticos, aplicando criterios rigurosos para seleccionar fuentes confiables. Los resultados sugieren que blockchain, con su naturaleza descentralizada y transparente, puede ofrecer mejoras significativas en la seguridad y gestión de datos en el sector salud, optimizando el manejo de datos sensibles y promoviendo una mayor transparencia en el sistema de salud colombiano.
Efectos biológicos de las radiaciones electromagnéticas: Índice UV y afecciones cutáneas en el cantón Quito
Authors: Barreno Segovia Miguel Alejandro , Salazar Carrera Verónica Alexandra , Salazar Carrera Gabriela Nataly
Published: September 2024

La radiación solar tiene efectos significativos sobre la piel, especialmente en zonas de gran altitud, muestra de ello son: eritemas, envejecimiento y, en casos graves, cáncer de piel. Los índices UV afectan directamente la piel, particularmente durante horas de alta radiación. La radiación solar incluye componentes directos, difusos y reflejados, medidos por equipos meteorológicos como heliógrafos y piranómetros. En Quito, Ecuador, la estación meteorológica M5029 “El Carmen” proporcionó datos de radiación solar desde 2010 hasta 2022. Basándose en estos datos, se calculó la energía mínima necesaria para causar eritema cutáneo, considerando diferentes fototipos según el trabajo de Mabel Gerbaudo. Encuestas realizadas en un radio de 10 km alrededor de la estación meteorológica indicaron que un 73% de la población sufre de envejecimiento cutáneo y afecciones debido a la exposición solar excesiva, mientras que un 27% presenta eritemas y cáncer de piel. La investigación determinó que, debido a la altitud y la energía solar, es necesario proteger la piel con bloqueador solar de FPS 60 o superior.
Estrategia lúdica para desarrollar las competencias emocionales a los estudiantes de tercer año de educación general básica
Authors: Intriago Giler Lidice Patricia , Casa Mayorga Susana Alexandra , Hernández Pinargote Fátima Karina , Sornoza Medina Cástulo Arnulfo , Cedeño Córdova Ramón Heriberto
Published: September 2024

La presente investigación tiene como objetivo proponer estrategia lúdica para el desarrollo de la competencia emocional de los estudiantes de tercer grado de la Unidad Educativa “Juan Antonio Vergara” del Cantón Junín, periodo lectivo 2024. Para ello la metodología de investigación se fundamentó en un enfoque cualitativo, por su profundidad es explicativa, por los medios para obtener datos es de campo, por la manipulación de variables es de carácter no experimental, de acuerdo al período temporal es transversal, por el tipo de inferencia se utilizó el método inductivo, deductivo, analítico, sintético, estadístico y sistémico. La muestra del estudio se conforma de 30 estudiantes de tercer año de educación básica elemental y 2 docentes. Las técnicas de recogida de datos fueron la observación participante, la entrevista y la encuesta, mientras que los instrumentos fueron el cuestionario, el registro anecdótico y el cuestionario.  Los datos obtenidos a través de los instrumentos de recolección de datos y su respectivo análisis indican que la estrategia lúdica permite el desarrollo de la competencia emocional de los dicentes mejorando el rendimiento académico según se expone teóricamente en el presente trabajo.
El Cuento como Estrategia Didáctica para Mejorar la Comprensión Lectora en el Subnivel Elemental de Educación General Básica
Authors: Tambaco Quintero Alberto Renato , Quiñónez Valencia Karen Paola , González Santana Washington Junior , Franco Valdez Jessica Lisbeth , Simisterra Muñoz Jesús Manuel
Published: September 2024

Este estudio analiza la efectividad del uso de cuentos creados específicamente por estudiantes de la carrera de Educación Básica como estrategia didáctica para mejorar la comprensión lectora en el Subnivel Elemental de Educación General Básica. Esta investigación se fundamenta en la implementación de cuentos, diseñados para ser atractivos y pedagógicamente efectivos para los niños en este nivel educativo.  La investigación se llevó a cabo en la Unidad Educativa “Los Pioneros”, utilizando métodos teóricos, empíricos y estadísticos para obtener conclusiones significativas. Mediante el método teórico, se identificaron y analizaron las variables relevantes, detectando las dificultades de comprensión lectora en los estudiantes y proponiendo soluciones basadas en la narrativa. El método empírico incluyó la observación directa de los estudiantes durante las sesiones de lectura de los cuentos, evaluando su capacidad para comprender y retener la información. Además, se aplicaron encuestas dirigidas a estudiantes y docentes de la unidad educativa, quienes proporcionaron datos sobre la percepción y la efectividad de los cuentos como herramienta pedagógica. Los hallazgos indicaron que los cuentos desarrollados por las estudiantes de Educación Básica tienen un impacto significativo en la mejora de la comprensión lectora de los niños, destacando así la importancia de continuar capacitando a los docentes en el uso efectivo de estas estrategias y de seguir desarrollando materiales de lectura adecuados, contribuyendo así al desarrollo integral de los educandos y a la mejora del proceso educativo.
Enhancing Teacher Competence in the Use of Learning Media through Academic Supervision
Authors: Handayani Fransisca Heny , Samad Abdul , Arif Muhammad Ridwan
Published: September 2024

Academic supervision has a significant impact on teachers' abilities in developing learning processes, including planning, implementation, and assessment of learning. This study aims to identify and analyze efforts to enhance teacher competence, as well as the inhibiting and supporting factors in the use of learning media through academic supervision at SDN 020 Penajam. The method used is descriptive qualitative, utilizing interview techniques with teacher informants at SDN 020 Penajam. Data analysis techniques employ the interactive model of Miles and Huberman. The results show that the role of the school principal as an academic supervisor is substantial and helps teachers improve their competence in using learning media in the classroom. Despite technical obstacles such as limited network access, the enthusiasm and commitment of the supervisor in guiding and motivating teachers are supportive factors in efforts to enhance teacher competence in using learning media at SDN 020 Penajam.
Timing of Millisecond Pulsars in NGC 6752. III. On the Presence of Nonluminous Matter in the Cluster’s Core
Authors: Corongiu A. , Ridolfi A. , Abbate F. , Bailes M. , Possenti A. , Geyer M. , Manchester R. N. , Kramer M. , Freire P. C. C. , Burgay M. , Buchner S. , Camilo F.
Published: September 2024

Millisecond pulsars are subject to accelerations in globular clusters (GCs) that manifest themselves in both the first and second spin period time derivatives, and can be used to explore the mass distribution of the potentials they inhabit. Here we report on over 20 yr of pulsar timing observations of five millisecond radio pulsars in the core of the core-collapse GC NGC 6752 with the Parkes (Murriyang) and MeerKAT radio telescopes, which have allowed us to measure the proper motions, positions, and first and second time derivatives of the pulsars. The pulsar timing parameters indicate that all the pulsars in the core experience accelerations and jerks that can be explained only if an amount of nonluminous mass of at least 2.56 × 103
M
⊙ is present in the core of NGC 6752. On the other hand, our studies highly disfavor the presence of an intermediate-mass black hole at the center of the cluster, with a mass equal to or greater than ∼3000M
⊙.
A Detailed Analysis of a Magnetic Island Observed by WISPR on Parker Solar Probe
Authors: Ascione Madison L. , Gutarra-Leon Angel J. , Shaik Shaheda Begum , Linton Mark G. , Battams Karl , Liewer Paulett C. , Gallagher Brendan M.
Published: September 2024

We present the identification and physical analysis of a possible magnetic island feature seen in white-light images observed by the Wide-field Imager for Solar Probe (WISPR) on board the Parker Solar Probe. The island is imaged by WISPR during Parker's second solar encounter on 2019 April 6, when Parker was ∼38 R
⊙ from the Sun's center. We report that the average velocity and acceleration of the feature are approximately 334 km s−1 and −0.64 m s−2. The kinematics of the island feature, coupled with its direction of propagation, indicate that the island is likely entrained in the slow solar wind. The island is elliptical in shape with a density deficit in its center, suggesting the presence of a magnetic guide field. We argue that this feature is consistent with the formation of this island via reconnection in the current sheet of the streamer. The feature's aspect ratio (calculated as the ratio of its minor to major axis) evolves from an elliptical to a more circular shape that approximately doubles during its propagation through WISPR’s field of view. The island is not distinct in other white-light observations from the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory and the Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory coronagraphs, suggesting that this is a comparatively faint heliospheric feature and that viewing perspective and WISPR’s enhanced sensitivity are key to observing the magnetic island.
Editorial: Fighting Cybersecurity Risks from a Multidisciplinary Perspective
Authors: Wendzel Steffen , Mileva Aleksandra , Franqueira Virginia N. L. , Jaatun Martin Gilje
Published: September 2024

Digitization, powered by the Internet, artificial intelligence, inter-operabile data formats and communication standards, high-bandwidth mobile technology, and nano-technology, allows for an increasing number of new services that are tailored to the particular demands of end-users, industry and government organizations.

However, these new digital services have also become the major focus of cyber-crime. Whereas traditional research mostly covered pure technical aspects of cybercrime, it is becoming increasingly important to address cybercrime and cybersecurity in a multidisciplinary fashion, including legal, behavioral, technical and sociological aspects.

This special issue aims to offer a mixture of selected extended versions of papers presented at the European Interdisciplinary Cybersecurity Conference (EICC’23), which took place in Stavanger, Norway, as well as submissions from an open call. We con-sidered papers dealing with the above-mentioned risks and problems, new challenges, interdisciplinary issues, and innovative multidisciplinary solutions (defense mechanisms, methods, and countermeasures) for promoting cybersecurity in the cyberspace.

Overall, we received 15 submissions. Each accepted paper received at least three reviews. After a first round of reviews, eight where rejected. The remaining seven papers underwent another round of reviews (five papers underwent a major revision and only two papers were scheduled to undergo a minor revision). Finally, the authors of these seven papers adequately addressed the reviewers’ comments and they thus have been accepted for inclusion in this special issue. 

We like to thank all authors who submitted their work to this special issue and all reviewers for their contributions. Further, we like to thank the J.UCS team for accepting our special issue for inclusion in their journal. We hope that all readers will enjoy this special issue.
Xantolis weimingii (Sapotaceae), a new species from the Yuanjiang River basin, Yunnan, southwest China
Authors: Yang Feng , Chen Chao , Wang Qiu-Ping , Wu Jian-Yong , Li Zhen-Xue , Wang Huan-Chong
Published: September 2024

Xantolis weimingiisp. nov. (Sapotaceae) is described and illustrated from Yunnan, southwest China. The new species is morphologically most similar to X. tomentosa (Roxb.) Raf., but differs from the latter in the ovate or obovate leaves, entirely glabrous corollas, lanceolate, ca. 5 mm long staminodes, fringed at the base. We provided a distribution map and a preliminary conservation assessment for the new species. Additionally, an updated dichotomous key to all known species of Xantolis is presented.
Grassland expansions promoted global diversification of the Pardosa wolf spiders during the late Cenozoic (Araneae, Lycosidae)
Authors: Liu Lijuan , Fu Dan , Luo Yufa
Published: September 2024

The spiders in the genus Pardosa C.L. Koch, 1847, are a young lineage of the family Lycosidae Sundevall, 1833, that exhibit high species diversity and widespread distribution. Pardosa is abundant in open and disturbed environments. In fact, most of its species live in grasslands, and the few that live in forests switched habitats relatively recently. The genus markedly prefers grasslands with a broad range of climates. Thus, its origin and diversification were probably associated with grassland expansions during the late Cenozoic. To test this hypothesis, we developed a global phylogenetic hypothesis that helps reconstruct the biogeographic patterns of the genus Pardosa using three nuclear (18S, ITS2, and H3) and four mitochondrial (12S, 16S, NADH1, and COI) loci. Our phylogenetic analyses cover 133 (125 described and 8 as yet undescribed) grassland species of Pardosa using Trochosa ruricola (De Geer, 1778) and Lycosa coelestis L. Koch, 1878, as outgroups. The results show that our selection of species in the genus is divided into four major clades: Clade I includes only P. crassipalpis Purcell, 1903, from South Africa; Clade II consists of a north-east African group (2 species) and a south-east Asian group (21 species); Clade III contains only P. sutherlandi (Gravely, 1924) from SE Asia; and Clade IV includes five species groups from Asia, Europe, and the Americas. The spiders of the genus probably originated in southern Africa or southern and eastern (SE) Asia at the Middle Miocene Climatic Optimum, about 19.40–14.18 Ma, and then expanded northwards to North America via the Bering Strait, as well as southwards to north-east Africa via the Arabian Peninsula, and westwards to Europe via western Asia between about 10.59 and 5.28 Ma. At least three exchanges occurred between North America and SE Asia, and at least two between Europe and North America. The biogeography of Pardosa in the past 14.18 Ma, associated with the evolution of grasses, suggested a late Cenozoic diversification of the genus as grasslands expanded.
Existence and uniqueness of nonlinear fractional differential equations with the Caputo and the Atangana-Baleanu derivatives: Maximal, minimal and Chaplygin approaches
Authors: Atangana Abdon
Published: September 2024

This work provided a detailed theoretical analysis of fractional ordinary differential equations with Caputo and the Atangana-Baleanu fractional derivative. The work started with an extension of Tychonoff's fixed point and the Perron principle to prove the global existence with extra conditions due to the properties of the fractional derivatives used. Then, a detailed analysis of the existence of maximal and minimal solutions was presented for both cases. Then, using Chaplygin's approach with extra conditions, we also established the existence and uniqueness of the solutions of these equations. The Abel and the Bernoulli equations were considered as illustrative examples and were solved using the fractional middle point method.
Deformation and failure analysis of heterogeneous slope using nonlinear spatial probabilistic finite element method
Authors: Garg Peeyush , Gautam Pradeep Kumar , Verma Amit Kumar , Budi Gnananandh
Published: September 2024

Slope failures in hilly terrain impact the social and economic balance of the community. The major reasons for these slope failures are steeper slopes, climate factors, seismic activity, nearby excavations, and construction. Natural slopes show significant heterogeneity due to the inherent randomness in material properties and geometric nonlinearities. Effective slope stability analysis solutions can be achieved by incorporating probabilistic approaches. We present a comprehensive method to develop and analyze a heterogeneous two-dimensional slope model, utilizing a non-linear-spatial-probabilistic-finite element method under a plane strain condition. The developed slope model encompasses geometrical and material nonlinearity with a uniform random distribution over the space. Also, the present slope model integrates the Mohr-Coulomb's constitutive model for elastoplastic analysis to capture more realistic and complex behavior. A benchmark soil slope problem was modeled using the spatial probabilistic finite element method, comprising all six material properties with uniform spatial uncertainties. These material properties are elastic modulus, unit weight, cohesion, friction angle, and dilation angle. During the numerical simulation, the detailed deformations, stress patterns, strain patterns, potential pre-failure zone, and failure characteristics of heterogeneous slopes were achieved under self-weight and step loading sequences. Nodal failure and probability of nodal failure were introduced as two novel quantitative parameters for more insights into failure investigations. The testbench slope model was subjected to self-weight load and external 100-step loading sequences with a loading increment of -0.1 kN/m. The percentage probability of nodal failure was obtained at 40.46% considering uniformly distributed material uncertainties with a 10% coefficient of variation. The developed testbench slope model was also simulated for different values of the coefficient of variation (ranging from 0% to 50%) and comparatively investigated. The detailed deformation patterns, thorough profiles of stresses-strains, failure zones, and failure characteristics provided valuable insights into geotechnical engineering practices.
From Micro-benchmarks to Machine Learning: Unveiling the Efficiency and Scalability of Hadoop and Spark
Authors: Hebabaze Salah Eddine , EL Ghmary Mohamed , El bouabidi Hamid , Maftah Sara , Amnai Mohamed
Published: September 2024

With the exponential growth of data, the demand for efficient and scalable data processing solutions has become paramount. Hadoop and Spark, pivotal components of the open-source Big Data landscape, have been put to the test in this study. We conducted a comprehensive performance analysis of Hadoop and Spark in virtualized environments, evaluating their prowess across a suite of benchmarks. The benchmarks encompassed a spectrum of workloads, from micro-benchmarks such as Sort, WordCount, and TeraSort to web search tasks such as PageRank and machine learning endeavors including Naive Bayes and K-means. The central focus was to gauge their performance, efficiency, and resource utilization. The findings of this study underscore the benefits of Spark’s in-memory processing, demonstrating its superiority over Hadoop in various scenarios. Spark excels in machine learning and web search applications, particularly when handling smaller inputs. Its efficient memory management and support for multiple iterations make it a strong choice. In resource-constrained environments or when dealing with large input files and limited memory, Hadoop may still hold an edge. The design and implementation of data processing solutions in virtualized environments should carefully consider the specific demands of each framework. This study not only presents a performance comparison of Hadoop and Spark across different benchmarks but also emphasizes the vital implications for designing and deploying data processing solutions in virtualized settings. It serves as a cornerstone for informed decision-making, paving the way for optimized algorithms and techniques in the dynamic landscape of big data processing.
Deep Reinforcement Learning Based Secure Transmission for UAV-Assisted Mobile Edge Computing
Authors: N. Vijayalakshmi  , Sagar Gulati  , B. Ben Sujin  , B. Madhav Rao  , K. Kiran Kumar
Published: September 2024

The increasing computational demand for real-time mobile applications has led to the development of mobile edge computing (MEC), with support from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), as a promising paradigm for constructing high-throughput line-of-sight links for ground users and pushing computational resources to network edges. Users can reduce processing latency and the load on their local computers by delegating tasks to the UAV in its role as an edge server. The coverage capacity of a single UAV is, however, very limited. Moreover, it will be easy to intercept the data that is transferred to the unmanned aerial vehicle. Thus, for UAV-assisted mobile edge computing, we proposed a transmission technique based on multi-agent deep reinforcement learning in this study. The recommended approach to maximize UAV deployment first applies the particle swarm optimization algorithm. Then, deep reinforcement learning is utilized to optimize the secure offloading to maximize the system utility and minimize the quantity of information eavesdropping, taking into consideration different user task types with diverse preferences for processing time and residual energy of computing equipment. The results of the simulation demonstrate that, in comparison to the single-agent strategy and the benchmark, the multi-agent approach can optimize offloading more successfully and produce higher system utility.
Gamification in Mobile Applications: The Regulation of Children’s Course Games by Commensurability Education System
Authors: Pu Song  , Guanggui Qi  , Lidan Zhang  , Peiti Li  , Zhengli Chen
Published: September 2024

The nation’s education-related information reform is making slow progress in light of the recent significant advancements in information technology. Early childhood education informatization has become a crucial part of the national education informatization building, serving as the first link in the chain of lifelong learning. This paper analyzes the significance of using children’s games in the classroom and the significance of incorporating new media resources into children’s course games by fusing the benefits of new media resources for teaching in a real-world educational setting. The goal is to realize the gamification of early childhood education courses and strengthen the management and deepening of course resources. The study also shows that customer involvement serves as a mediator between a better brand experience and a consumer’s desire to make another purchase from the business. Subsequent interviews demonstrated that the following factors accounted for users’ motivations for using the app: rewards, competition, feeling of accomplishment, and knowledge acquisition; engagement and identity clarified how using the gamified application affected users’ attitude and loyalty towards the main service. In summary, our contribution advances the understanding of how gamified affordances can enhance consumer experiences by adding value to the focus brand that is facilitated by a third-party app as well as the gamified consuming experiences themselves.
LONG-TERM TAI-CHI AND YUANJI-DANCE TRAINING ON BALANCE AND ASSOCIATED MUSCLE ACTIVITIES IN COMMUNITY MIDDLE-AGED AND ELDERLY
Authors: Hsieh Jyh-Gang , Tai Kuo-Chung , Chang Chu-Fen , Lin Kwan-Hwa , Wang Ying-Wei , Huang Chien-Hui , Hong Shih-Wun
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the sway areas of the center of pressure (COP) and the inclination angles between the center of mass (COM) and COP among elderly subjects with and without training in Chinese traditional exercises, including Tai Chi (TC) and Yuanji-Dance (YD). Additionally, this study investigates the electromyographic (EMG) activities during walking across these groups. The current study employed a cross-sectional study design. Twenty-seven healthy participants aged 45–70 years old were recruited from the local community in this study. TC group and YD group should have regular exercise training for at least two years, respectively. In the first part of this study, each subject of three groups (TC, YD and CON) was asked to walk at a self-selected speed on an 8 m walkway for gait analysis. Maximum center of mass–center of pressure (COM–COP) inclination angles in the sagittal plane and frontal plane were calculated. The EMG activity was recorded bilaterally from four muscles of the lower limbs including quadriceps, hamstring, tibialis anterior and gastrocnemius. In the second part, each subject was guided to perform four tandem static balance tests with the dominant leg leading on a force plate. The time-varying COP positions and the sway area of the COP were calculated from the ground reaction force data. A one-way ANOVA was conducted to compare walking variables between groups, and a two-way repeated measures ANOVA was used to evaluate the effects of group (between-group) and conditions (within-group) on the variables of the static tests. There were no significant differences in the maximum COM–COP inclination angles in anterior– posterior ([Formula: see text] = 0.06) and medial–lateral ([Formula: see text] = 0.15) directions as well as the EMG activities ([Formula: see text] > 0.05) among the TC, YD and CON groups. For static balance test, the TC group showed decreased excursion of COP in anterior– posterior direction and sway area compared with the CON group ([Formula: see text] < 0.01). For the YD group, decreased excursion of COP in the anterior–posterior direction during tandem stance on the soft surface was found ([Formula: see text] < 0.01). Moreover, the YD group showed decreased sway areas of COP compared with the CON group ([Formula: see text] < 0.01). The findings show that the TC group demonstrated smaller sway areas compared to the YD group, indicating that TC training may be especially effective in enhancing the static standing balance. However, there were no significant differences in the anterior–posterior and medial–lateral COM–COP inclination angles during walking among the TC, YD, and control groups. This result suggests that the training effects of TC and YD may not significantly impact the dynamic balance or the muscle activities observed during level walking.
The Impact of Asynchronous Learning for the Orthodox Jewish Student
Authors: Lubin Robert
Published: September 2024

Although the asynchronous modality of online learning has gained popularity, little is known about its success among the Orthodox Jewish population. This qualitative research action research involved 10 semi-structured interviews conducted with students at a secular and non-sectarian university. Participants were all Orthodox Jewish males and all current students in an Orthodox Jewish learning environment (yeshiva) and simultaneously at an asynchronous secular learning environment. The following four themes were identified from the 10 participants: (1) flexibility of academic schedule, (2) more time for separate Jewish studies in a yeshiva setting, (3) time for outside friends, and (4) independence. Benefits of asynchronous learning supports outside learning activities and development of analytical skills. Challenges incorporating more personal interactions among students and instructors require further consideration.
Potential efficacy of fractional CO2 laser in treating port wine stain birthmarks with hypertrophy
Authors: Zhang Tingwei
Published: September 2024

Dear Editor,
Port wine stain birthmarks are congenital vascular diseases caused by excessive capillary dilation, leading to red or purple skin discoloration. As patients age, the lesions often thicken, with 65% developing hypertrophy. Dilated vessels typically range from 10-150m in diameter and are located 0.6 mm under the skin, but in hypertrophy, they can reach up to 500m and extend to 3.7 mm deep.1 Current treatments, including various lasers and photodynamic therapy, target hemoglobin based on the theory of selective photothermolysis. However, these treatments often fall short, especially in patients with hypertrophy. For example, Pulsed Dye Lasers (PDL), the gold standard, may not fully photocoagulate vessels outside the 20-150m range, dense blood vessel areas, or vessels located deeper than 0.65mm. Potassium Titanyl Phosphate (KTP) lasers and photodynamic therapy may work better on smaller vessels but are limited by epidermal thickness and melanin. Neodymium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd: YAG) lasers can occlude deeper vessels more effectively than PDL but carry a higher risk of scarring. [...]
To advocate or assimilate: Lessons of queer educators navigating their high school space
Authors: Maseko Siphesihle N.
Published: September 2024

Background: In South African high schools, queer educators face a unique set of challenges as they navigate the delicate balance between advocating for queer identities and assimilating into institutional norms.Objectives: This article delves into the experiences of three queer educators, examining the complex dynamics of performing their professional roles as educators, advocating for queer identities while navigating institutional, cultural, and personal constraints. This article endeavours to address this gap by delving into the lived experiences of queer educators navigating their roles within the high school landscape of South Africa.Methods: The method of the study involved in-depth interviews and thematic analysis. The study employed a qualitative exploratory multiple-case study. This article is based on data that were collected from a broader study that looked at the care and support of queer learners in a variety of high schools.Results: This article helps uncover the complexities of advocacy, assimilation, and the intersectionality of identity.Conclusion: Queer educators understand that their visibility in schools benefits LGBT school youth. Queer educators desire true acceptance and inclusion amongst their colleagues.Contribution: Building on the insights shared by the three educators, the study offers recommendations to enhance the care and support of queer educators in high school settings.
Out in the classroom: Self-disclosure as a ‘pedagogical tool’
Authors: Brown Anthony
Published: September 2024

Background: In South African higher education, LGBTQ+-identifying educators often navigate heteronormative and cisnormative spaces that marginalise their identities. Self-disclosure by LGBTQ+ educators have the potential to disrupt these norms and foster inclusivity, but it also carries personal and professional risks.Objectives: This autoethnographic study explores the transformative potential and challenges of self-disclosure by LGBTQ+ educators in South African higher education, focusing on my experiences as a gay professor.Methods: The study employs an autoethnographic approach, drawing on my personal narratives, reflections and artefacts related to my experiences of self-disclosure in the classroom. The data were analysed using a thematic analysis approach, informed by critical and transgressive pedagogies and queer theory.Results: Disclosure about my sexual orientation confused students’ assumptions that I am heterosexual. It challenged their prejudices about LGBTQ+ identities. It also created opportunities for critical dialogue and fostered a more inclusive classroom environment. However, this article also reveals the institutional and social barriers that continue to marginalise LGBTQ+ voices in South African education.Conclusions: Self-disclosure by LGBTQ+ educators can be a transformative pedagogical tool for challenging oppressive norms and fostering social justice in education. However, it is a complex and risky process that requires institutional support and personal resilience.Contribution: The study highlights the need for further research on LGBTQ+ educators’ experiences and pedagogical practices in South Africa and beyond.
ALL induction outcome: Real-world data from a pediatric oncology center in an LMIC setup with rural predominance
Authors: Sampagar Abhilasha , Patil Neha G. , Reddy Nalla A. , Dias Merle
Published: September 2024

Background:

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) has survival rates of greater than 90% in developed nations. However, various sociodemographic factors adversely affect outcome rates in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Objective:

To study induction outcome of ALL and various factors affecting it.

Methods:

This was a prospective cohort study which enrolled 86 children up to the age of 18 years with newly diagnosed ALL registered in newly established pediatric hematology and oncology division over the duration of 3 years. Sociodemographic and clinical data was collected. Outcome was assessed using morphological remission, minimal residual disease (MRD) and mortality rate.

Results:

Of the 170 children with malignancies registered, 86 were ALL. Mean age was 7.09 ± 4.07 years and the M: F ratio of 1.32:1. Sixteen (38.09%) of them had severe acute malnutrition and another 16 (38.09%) had moderate acute malnutrition. Thirty (68.18%) children over 5 years were undernourished. Seventy-four (86.05%) were B-ALL and 12 (13.95%) T-ALL. In total, 28.77% had WBC counts greater than 50 × 109/L. t (12;21) was the most common cytogenetic abnormality. Majority (60.46%) of the patients belonged to lower socioeconomic status. Seventy-one (93.42%) patients completed induction of which 100% attained morphological remission and 64 (90.14%) were MRD negative. There were five mortalities, three (60%) due to sepsis and 2 (40%) due to hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. Fifty (65.78%) children had morbidities during induction, febrile neutropenia being the commonest.

Conclusions:

Successful induction outcome rates at par with high-income countries can be achieved even in resource-limited settings of LMIC with support from government and NGOs. Decentralized cancer care centers can eﬀectively pave the way in reducing cancer mortality in children of lower socioeconomic status residing in rural areas.