bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SAKSI KELUARGA DALAM PERKARA PERCERAIAN PADA PENGADILAN AGAMA MAROS
Authors: Nur Dwi Utami Hudaya
Published: July 2024

Everyone is considered capable of being a witness, unless the law dictates otherwise. The prohibition of family witnesses to be presented in divorce trials is a prohibition that is devoted to divorce cases for the sake of avoiding the witness's non-objective attitude in giving testimony. The main research problem was How is the effectiveness of the family witnesses prohibition implemented in divorce cases according to Article 172 clause (1) RBg? This study employed empirical normative legal research methods. The results showed that the implementation of the family witnesses prohibition in divorce cases at the Maros Religious Court was ineffective due to the existence of family witnesses who were still presented by the plaintiff or defendant in court on the grounds of divorce outside syiqaq by considering family closeness to husband and wife which made family witnesses know the household condition.
LEGAL ANALYSIS OF THE JU'ALAH CONTRACT FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF AHKAM HADITH
Authors: Salma Rahmani , Saran Mohammad , Komaruddin Koko
Published: July 2024

The demands and dynamics of human life are becoming more complex due to technological advancements and economic progress. It is causing various contemporary issues in Islamic jurisprudence, such as affiliate marketing practices. Affiliate marketing, in terms of its technical execution, uses a Ju’alah scheme or contract. This study analyzes the quality and strength of Hadith, as reported by Bukhari number 5736, regarding Ruqyah with Surah Al-Fatihah as a legal foundation for Ju’alah in Islamic law. The study employs a qualitative and descriptive-analytical method based on Takhrij and Syarah hadith. This study's data was sourced from library research procedures, including primary and secondary data. The research elucidates that, from the perspective of Hadith, ju’alah represents a commitment to rewarding an effort completed by one party. The permissibility of ju’alah in Hadith Bukhari no.5736, shown through the response of Prophet Muhammad saw, thus approved Abu Sa'id al Khudri's acts during the execution of ruqyah and their agreement to give a goat as a reward/return for the ruqyah. According to the analysis result of Hadith Bukhari no. 5736 regarding ruqyah with Surah Al-Fatihah, this Hadith has the status of hadith ahad and shahih quality, thereby establishing its viability as a hujjah or legal foundation for ju’alah in Islamic law.
AbstrakTuntutan dan dinamika dalam kehidupan manusia semakin kompleks, terutama akibat perkembangan teknologi dan kemajuan ekonomi, yang serta merta memunculkan berbagai isu kontemporer dalam fikih muamalah, seperti praktik pemasaran afiliasi. Pemasaran afiliasi dari teknis pelaksanaannya, menggunakan skema atau akad ju’alah. Penelitian ini mengkaji kualitas dan kekuatan hadis riwayat Bukhari no.5736 tentang ruqyah dengan surat al-fatihah sebagai landasan hukum akad ju’alah. Penelitian ini menerapkan pendekatan kualitatif melalui metode deskriptif-analitis yang bersumber dari metode takhrij hadis dan syarah hadis. Sumber data penelitian ini didasarkan pada pengumpulan data melalui studi kepustakaan (library research), yang mencakup sumber-sumber primer dan sekunder. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa dalam perspektif hadis, akad jua’alah merupakan komitmen pemberian imbalan sebagai balasan atas tugas atau pekerjaan yang telah dilakukan. Kebolehan akad ju’alah dalam hadis Riwayat bukhari no.5736 ditunjukkan melalui respon Nabi saw yang membenarkan tindakan Abu Sa’id al Khudri dalam melaksanakan ruqyah dan kesepakatan pemberian kambing sebagai imbalan atas ruqyah tersebut. Berdasarkan hasil analisis terhadap hadis Riwayat bukhari no.5736 tentang ruqyah dengan surat al-fatihah, dapat disimpulkan bahwa hadis berstatus hadis ahad dan berkualitas shahih, sehingga dapat dijadikan sebagai hujjah atau landasan hukum akad ju’alah.
A conceptual model for blockchain adoption intentions: A T-O-E framework perspective
Authors: Hadi Almaher Mustafa Ahmed , Thiruchelvam Sivadass A.L. , Bin Mat Isa Abdul Aziz
Published: July 2024

Blockchain technology has increasingly attracted the attention of the financial service sector, customers, and investors because of its distinctive characteristics, such as transparency, security, reliability, and traceability. The paper is based on a Systematic Literature Review (SLR). The study comprehended the literature and the theories. It deployed the technology-organization-environment (TOE) model to consider technological, organizational, and environmental factors as antecedents of blockchain adoption intention. The paper contributes to blockchain literature by providing new insights into the factors that affect the intention to adopt blockchain technology. A theoretical model incorporates antecedents of blockchain adoption intention to direct an agenda for further investigations. Researchers can use the model proposed in this study to test the antecedents of blockchain adoption intention empirically.
Do namoro qualificado à união estável: objetivo de constituir família como determinante
Authors: Silveira Keli Aparecida da , Borguezan Danielly
Published: July 2024

O presente artigo tem como objetivo demonstrar, por meio da análise de algumas decisões jurisprudenciais de alguns estados, em especial, os Tribunais de Justiça dos estados do Amapá, Maranhão e Paraná, entre 2013 e 2019, no que tange as limitações do legislador em distinguir, o namoro qualificado da união estável, sendo que no período estudado o fator preponderante reside no fato de as jurisprudências selecionadas, todas abordam o requisito essencial “objetivo de constituir família”, a fim de demonstrar que este requisito é ou não fundamental para diferenciar o namoro estável e o namoro qualificado. Desta forma, a problemática apresentada é: Quais os limites que distinguem a união estável do namoro qualificado levando em consideração as decisões jurisprudenciais dos Tribunais de Justiça dos estados do Amapá, Maranhão e Paraná, entre os anos de 2013 e 2019? Para isso, far-se-á necessário trazer à baila conceitos, concepções e discussões doutrinárias acerca da união estável e do namoro qualificado, a fim de distinguir os dois institutos. Em relação aos procedimentos metodológicos, caracteriza-se por uma pesquisa qualitativa, cujo método é bibliográfico e documental, com a leitura, análise de jurisprudência e consulta bibliográfica.
Modelling, analysis, and identification in a cracked and unbalanced Jeffcott rotor supported on foil bearings
Authors: Kumar Prabhat
Published: July 2024

This paper investigates on developing a novel model-based identification technique for the simultaneous identification of severe faults such as the unbalance in the rotor and transverse crack in the shaft supported on foil bearings. With plenty of advantages over rolling element bearings or fluid film bearings, foil bearings have been used as the supported bearings in rotating machines such as fuel cell-electric air compressors, blowers, expanders, air cycle machines, etc. In the present article, a rotor model consisting of a cracked and unbalanced rotor with a disc in the middle supported by foil bearings has been considered for easier understanding of online identification of faults in high-speed rotating machines. Dynamic equations of motion of the rotor-foil bearing system have been derived based on the equivalent stiffness concept of shaft-foil bearing, inertia force, unbalance force, and crack force relying on the switching crack concept. The solutions of the equations, i.e., time domain displacement responses, orbit plots, etc. have been obtained numerically using the Simulink inbuilt Runge-Kutta method for different values of spin speed of the rotor and ramp-up speeds. The shaft centreline orbit is found to have eight shaped and asymmetric about the axes due to presence of crack and unbalance faults. The force due to unbalance fault gets dominated over the crack force at the higher speeds. Moreover, the orbit line is also observed to be thicker at higher level of noise addition in the responses. As the switching crack force contains multiple harmonics, a full spectrum analysis has been done to investigate both the forward and backward rotor whirls. The frequency-based rotor displacement is utilized to illustrate an identification algorithm for the estimation of the dynamic coefficients of foil bearings, additive crack stiffness, and magnitude as well as phase of disc unbalance. The identification algorithm is found to be quite suitable for the estimation of system and faults parameters even with addition of different levels of noise signal and modelling errors.
Glioblastoma: A molecular insight into current discoveries and treatment directions
Authors: Świątek Wiktor , Kłodziński Olgierd , Ciesielski Michał , Adamkiewicz Zuzann a , Podolak Marcin , Mozdziak Paul Edward , Kranc Wiesława
Published: July 2024

Glioblastoma is a highly aggressive and complex pathology that has garnered significant interest among researchers and clinicians due to its high mortality rates. This research article provides a systematic analysis of key aspects related to glioblastoma, offering comprehensive insights into its underlying complexities. The text explores the epidemiological patterns, etiological factors, and genetic and molecular foundations underlying the development of GBM. It also examines the interplay between the immune system and the tumor, identifying specific immune markers with potential diagnostic value. The article describes the complex processes involved in tumor growth, including its interaction with surrounding tissues, the development of the tumor microenvironment, and the role of stem cells. It also provides an analysis of current treatment options and the challenges they face, particularly in relation to tumor resistance. The article concludes with a thorough examination of the changing landscape of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. It highlights notable recent research findings and provides insight into potential advancements that could shape the future of medical interventions for glioblastoma.
The negative effect on human health due to disruption of circadian rhythm in modern times
Authors: Sharo Hevind , Amann Yannick , Wozniak Slawomir
Published: July 2024

Disruptions of the circadian rhythm have shown that it can lead to significant health risks. Factors such as rapid travel across different time zones, increased exposure to artificial light, and the consumption of substances like caffeine contribute to this disruption. Understanding these disruptions and its causes is crucial for improving our health and in finding solutions.
Neuromolecular analysis of post-traumatic stress disorder – the dysregulation in neuronal and signalling pathways
Authors: Nesengani Livhuwani , Sherington Vanessa Andrine , Snaifer Chloe
Published: July 2024

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental disorder as a result of life-threatening situations which in turn affects quality of life through activities of daily living. This is attributed to a plethora of neuromolecular factors negatively affecting the functional make-up of the brain. The complex interplay of these factors include neuronal alterations and neuroplasticity, signalling molecular, astrocyte and glial cell alterations which together act as a survival mechanism in several brain regions.
Understanding endometriosis: a threat to fertility
Authors: Verschuren Jeya
Published: July 2024

Endometriosis is a gynaecological disease that affects female reproductive organs by the growth of endometrium- like tissues inside and outside the pelvic cavity. This paper explored how endometriosis can lead to increased chances of infertility through a dysregulated immune system and impaired oocyte quality.
Laboratory Testing and Modelling of Magnetorheological Elastomers in Tension Mode
Authors: Gutenko Denys , Orkisz Paweł , Sapiński Bogdan
Published: July 2024

The study deals with experimental testing and estimating the modified Dahl model parameters of magnetorheological elastomers (MREs) differing in volumetric concentrations of carbonyl iron particles (CIP). The authors present briefly an overview of scientific reports relating to MREs research. Next, they describe the structure and magnetic properties of two fabricated MREs, which were investigated using a scanning electron microscope, a magnetometer and a gaussmeter. Then, they reveal the structure of a specially engineered test rig for materials sample examination and present a scenario of experiments. Next, the test results of the material’s mechanical properties conducted in the absence and presence of a magnetic field were discussed. Then, they describe a modified Dahl model of the material followed by parameters estimation and validation procedure. Finally, the authors summarise the test results and outline further research steps.
Experimental Determination of Springback Characteristics in a Three-Point Bending Test of the Aluminium Alloy Sheet with Aluminium Cladding
Authors: Kut Stanisław , Pasowicz Grzegorz , Stachowicz Feliks
Published: July 2024

The springback phenomenon that occurs during cold forming is the main problem that affects the dimensional accuracy of bent products. This article presents the results of the analysis of the springback phenomenon occurring during a three-point air bending of 0.5 mm, 0.8 mm, 1.0 mm and 2.0 mm thick AW-2024 aluminium alloy sheet, AW-1050A aluminium clad. For sheets with a thickness of 1.0 mm and 2.0 mm, the influence of heat treatment and natural ageing time of sheets on the value of the springback coefficient was also tested. The springback characteristics were determined by defining the dependence of the springback coefficient on the bending deflection of the band. The experimental results obtained indicate a linear dependence of the value of the springback coefficient on the relative deflection w/fg index (w – distance between supports, fg – deflection under load), both in the case of the influence of the sheet thickness and the ageing time of the sheets.
Biomechanical Assessment of Critical Factors during Patient Lifting: Shoulder Girdle and Cumulative Moment Ergonomic Evaluation
Authors: Senvaitis Karolis , Daunoravičienė Kristina , Adomavičienė Aušra
Published: July 2024

This study examines the ergonomics of the patient lifting motion often used by healthcare professionals, focusing on the shoulder area, as manual weight management is still an important part of daily work. Data acquisition was made with the 17 IMU sensors, Movella Xsens system. A total of 25 quality measurements were acquired for further data processing. A mathematical model with the defined assumptions is presented in this research calculating shoulder moment-kinematics. The load engagement profile was determined based on the hip extension as a variable size for different test subjects and trials. Shoulder flexion-extension range of motion (ROM) variance was estimated, determining each test subject’s technique, together with shoulder moment and cumulative shoulder moment. Cumulative shoulder load varied from -31.46% to 27.78% from the mean shoulder moment value. During the estimated accumulation of a 5-year work span, the difference in worst to best techniques accumulated to 1.86 times. Recommendations on how the technique and the further scope of the research could be improved were given.
Numerical Modelling and Simulation of the Shear-Slitting Process of Electrical Steels
Authors: Bohdal Łukasz , Kułakowska Agnieszka , Kułakowski Marcin
Published: July 2024

Despite the development of laser processing, the mechanical cutting process is still widely used in the formation of electric steels that are very sensitive to thermal phenomena. However, proper process control is difficult due to the large number of factors determining the quality of the products. As a result, the quality of the cut edge is characterised by the presence of burrs, the removal of which increases the production costs. Due to their magnetic properties, these materials should not be exposed to excessive stresses and deformations. The article presents the possibilities of predicting the characteristic features of the cut edge as well as stress distributions in this area. Original shear-slitting finite element method (FEM) models were developed, the results of which were verified experimentally. The proposed method based on stress triaxiality analysis enables precise analysis of stress states in the cutting zone and the boundaries of the slip fracture transition in the separating fracture, as well as determining the method of material cracking. Variable control factors such as cutting clearance, rake angle of the upper knife, and cutting speed were taken into account in the models. Parametric analysis of the process was carried out and it was determined how the process parameters should be selected in order to obtain the appropriate quality of the product. The developed analysis results can be useful on production lines for proper process control.
Impact of replacement of local officials on high-quality economic development of China’s resource-based cities: mediating role of resource allocation efficiency
Authors: Zhu Zhihong , Zhang Shuang
Published: July 2024

This research examined the impact of turnover among local officials on the high-quality economic development of resource-centric urban centers in China. Specifically, it investigated the potential mediation role of resource allocation efficiency. The findings suggest that turnover among local officials significantly hinders the high-quality economic development of China’s resource-based cities. Moreover, officials transferred from other regions exacerbate this hindrance compared to locally promoted officials. Resource allocation efficiency is identified as a mediator in the relationship between turnover among local officials and high-quality economic development. To enhance the economic development of China’s resource-based cities, recommendations include stabilizing the tenure of local officials, limiting their discretionary control over resources, and promoting a market-driven allocation of resource elements.
Dynamic prediction of portfolio riskiness in financial markets based on multi-factor quantitative models
Authors: Zhang Wei , Dong Hao
Published: July 2024

To reduce investment risk in financial markets, how to select effective factors and determine factor weights to construct an effective portfolio is the focus of current research. In this paper, we build a multi-factor quantitative model and explore the long-term equilibrium relationship and short-term volatility impact relationship of investment risk in financial markets with the help of econometric models and the impulse response analysis of the dynamic correlation of risk. Johansen cointegration test and error correction model are used for the analysis to examine the long-term equilibrium relationship and short-term volatility impact of financial market risk. Secondly, the correlations and influencing factors among the risks in each market under the financial market are explored by simple correlation coefficient analysis and the Granger causality test. Finally, the dynamic correlation of risk is examined by impulse response analysis. The results of the study show that the accuracy of similarity-weighted voting portfolio forecasts are all the highest, and their accuracy rates are 93.2%, 95.7%, and 96.8% in years (t-1) to (t-3), which are above 90%, respectively. The method in this paper can better detect the risky situations that are likely to occur in the next three years for financial market investments and identify them with superior results.
Efficient α-Dense Curve Strategies for Multiple Integrals over Hyper-rectangle Regions
Authors: Rahal Mohamed , Guettal Djaouida
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we propose an approximation technique to compute multiple integrals of a non-negative real continuous function over a hyper-rectangle Ω of ℝ
n
. The main idea is to use a reducing transformation procedure obtained by using α-dense curves. First, the region Ω
f
whose measure represents the value of the integral, is densified by a specific curve ℓ
α(t) of finite length. Therefore, the multiple integral can be approached by a simple integral corresponding to ℓ
α (t). Some numerical examples are given.
Phenomena in Bubbles Cluster
Authors: Simaciu Ion , Borsos Zoltan , Drafta Viorel , Dumitrescu Gheorghe
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we continue to demonstrate the analogy between the acoustic world and the electromagnetic world. In the paper, we derive the expressions for: the electro-acoustic force between the bubbles in the cluster and an outer bubble, the gravito-acoustic forces between the bubbles in the cluster and between the cluster and an outer bubble, the temperature corresponding to the translational motion of the bubbles in the cluster (acoustic temperature) and the average acoustic radiation pressure. The most important result is the demonstration of the fact that the modulus of the average pressure of the acoustic radiation around a bubble is equal to the energy density of the electro-acoustic field, Eq. (10). These densities are the oscillation energy densities of the liquid around the bubble that are involved in the interaction phenomenon between two oscillating/pulsating bubbles. We have also demonstrated that the gravito - acoustic forces, at resonance, between the bubbles in the cluster, generated by the absorption of energy in the bubbles, are proportional to the square of the virtual masses of the bubbles, Eqs. (29) and (30).
Structural Changes of the Labour Market in the Czech Republic in Terms of Skills: Is There Any Job Polarization?
Authors: Náplava Radek
Published: July 2024

Job polarization has been proven mainly in the United States and many Western European countries, but the Czech Republic has been relatively neglected in these surveys. This paper explicitly focuses on the Czech Republic and fills this gap from 2004–2017. Moreover, the Czech Republic is examined at the level of individual regions, making this paper new. Descriptive results show that the labour market has been polarized – employment in the high- and low-paying occupations has increased, while employment in the middling occupations has decreased. Furthermore, polarization has been demonstrated in seven regions. The workforce relocation took place to a greater extent in low-paying occupations (both at the level of individual regions and the level of the whole Czech Republic). Regression analysis results show job polarization only between 2004 and 2010 in the occupations of the private sphere.
Problems of Improving Advocacy in Civil Proceedings
Authors: Karassayeva Adiya , Dusipov Erkin , Seriyev Bolat , Tinistanova Saltanat , Mussekenova Aizhan
Published: July 2024

The relevance of the study is due to the presence of some problematic aspects in the institute of representation of Kazakhstan, in connection with which the level of effectiveness of citizens’ realisation of their inherent rights decreases. The study aims to evaluate recommendations for removal, necessitated by the critical importance of safeguarding citizens’ rights and ensuring the effective implementation of this mechanism. Methods such as logical analysis, deduction, induction, synthesis, legal hermeneutics, etc. were used. In the course of the study, it was revealed that the criteria for lawyers are more formal in nature, which contributes to the unqualified legal assistance to the citizens. There is also no concept of legal responsibility for the provision of this kind of assistance by specialists. Conflicts related to the implementation of their activities by lawyers of other states were considered. This provided an opportunity to characterise them and make an appropriate assessment. A study of the activities of the institute of representation was conducted and its features, principles, and signs were highlighted. A significant aspect of the study was the analysis of international experience, particularly from the European Union (EU), regarding the functioning of the institution of representation in civil proceedings. This analysis identified the main ways of development, the course of integration, and the specific features of legislation in EU countries, allowing for the identification of promising areas for application in Kazakhstan’s legal practice. The practical value of the results obtained is the provision of recommendations that will contribute to improving the effectiveness of lawyers in civil proceedings and greater protection and guarantees of citizens’ rights and freedoms.
Sustainable Household Income in EU Countries Ensuring a Life Out of Poverty
Authors: Baláková Irena , Švecová Veronika , Ulbrichová Sabina , Stávková Jana
Published: July 2024

The identification of the structure of sustainable household disposable income in times of economic uncertainty is the aim of this paper. The research provides household income components in order to achieve a sustainable income ensuring life out of poverty. The analyses were based on the EU-SILC 2020 database of primary data (N = 232,816 EU households). The binary logistic regression verified that households capable of generating savings have the highest chances of achieving a sustainable income. There is also a positive influence of the investment income (interests, dividends, rental income), but with a lower impact than expected. On the contrary, the presence of social transfers in income reduces the likelihood of sustainable income. Social income is beneficial to households in poverty but it is essential to ensure that it is properly targeted.
Phenomenal Powers or a Power of the Self?
Authors: Wright John
Published: July 2024

One argument against epiphenomenalism arises from the theory of evolution. A particularly powerful form of this argument was developed by William James. James argued against epiphenomenalism on the grounds that, if it were correct, it would be inexplicable why the things that we find pleasurable are mostly beneficial to us while the things we find painful are mostly harmful. The aim of the present paper is to defend and extend James’s argument. James’s argument is here defended against criticisms due to Karl Popper, John Eccles and William Robinson. Recently, an argument similar to James’s has been developed by Hedda Hassel Mørch. Mørch argues that the phenomena to which James drew our attention can be explained if we say pleasure and pain have phenomenal powers. In the present paper it is argued that, as it stands, the argument developed by Mørch is not satisfactory. It is argued that Mørch’s account needs to be supplemented with the thesis that the self has certain causal powers. A similar addition, it is argued, needs to be made to a position defended by Bradford Saad. The paper argues that, supplemented with the appropriate attributions of causal powers to the self, James’s argument against epiphenomenalism is effective.
Doing Language(s) and Other Communicative Practices
Authors: Ilyin Mikhail
Published: July 2024

Enlanguaged practices bring together social semiosis working as an interfacial verge or axle for even greater domains of human existence. They have mental, bodily and communicative aspects, mingle with respective practices and thus bring them all together. 4E approaches to practices help to couple them. On the one hand embodying consolidates bodies and things while on the other enacting results in processes and practices. Linguistic bodies and things are shaped as nouns and nominal forms while processes and practices mold as verbs, predicatives and other rhematic formats.
Languaging in Social Practices: The Role of Narrative Games in Shaping Diplomatic Conventions
Authors: Franco Chiara De
Published: July 2024

This article examines the role of languaging in shaping social practices, drawing on Maturana’s concept of consensual coordination. It posits that social practices are essentially enlanguaged activities, emerging and evolving through the conventions born from recursive interactions. Central to this argument is a reinterpretation of Maturana’s typology of conversations, suggesting it as a guide to the kinds of conventions that can emerge from consensual coordination. The article introduces an analytical framework conceptualizing narrative games as languaging mechanisms. This framework is informed by an abductive process based on radical linguistics and the analysis of 128 diplomatic conversation transcripts. In its conclusion, the article offers insights into how languaging plays a crucial role in establishing conventions and rules within social practices. It also examines the capacity of languaging to drive social change, underscoring the importance of future research in this area.
Estimating required general practitioner capacity due to generational change in Czech regions up to 2035
Authors: Šídlo Luděk , Kahoun Lukáš , Čábela Filip , Havelková Tereza
Published: July 2024

The Czech healthcare system primary care segment, comprising general practitioners and pediatricians, faces persistent challenges due to the unbalanced and aging workforce of physicians. Ensuring adequate generational turnover in this sector is threatened at the national level and will exert an even more significant impact regionally. The changing age structure of the population will also play a crucial role in shaping the future demand for healthcare services. Using data obtained from the largest Czech health insurance company, this article highlights current regional disparities regarding the number, structure and capacity of general practitioners and pediatricians. It estimates the potential decline in the availability of physicians due primarily to advancing age – it has been estimated that almost 40% of general practitioner and 55% of pediatrician capacity will be withdrawn by 2035. Using regional population projections, the study determines the capacity required in each region to maintain the appropriate doctor/patient ratios. The results of the projections serve to raise awareness of the impact of changing age structures on the future supply of, and demand for, healthcare. Although the study does not determine a precise estimate of unfilled capacity, it prompts further discussions on ensuring accessible healthcare in the future.
Methods for Assessing Concrete Segregation Due to Compaction
Authors: Ahmed Hassan , Punkki Jouni
Published: July 2024

Segregation in concrete significantly affects its durability and structural integrity by introducing local variance in both the strength distribution and the modulus of elasticity within a structural element. Additionally, segregation can lead to durability complications, such as shrinkage induced cracking. Recent observations have identified such segregation issues in already existing structures, underscoring the importance of assessing segregation. In this study, we evaluate the extent of segregation in normally vibrated concrete specimens, which were subjected to different vibration durations and vibrated using either table or poker vibrators. The research introduces three segregation indices to assess this phenomenon. One index relies on the standard deviation of densities across multiple slices of each specimen, while the other two utilize Digital Image Processing (DIP) to analyse the distribution of aggregates in horizontal and vertical slices, respectively. High correlations were found between the density-based index and vibration time for both poker-vibrated and table-vibrated specimens. The DIP-based indices showed strong correlations with the density-based approach, offering quicker alternatives for assessing segregation. The study further proposes classification levels for segregation based on these methods and reveals the negative impact of increased air entrainment on segregation. These findings provide insights for optimizing concrete compaction processes and understanding segregation.
Frost-salt Testing Non-air Entrained High-performance Fly-ash Concrete Part II: Parameter Study of Effect of Internal Cracking on Glue Spall Stress
Authors: Asadi Iman , Skjølsvold Ola , Kanstad Terje , Jacobsen Stefan
Published: July 2024

A parametric analysis of glue spall stress (concrete surface tensile stress at ice-discontinuities by differential thermal expansion ice-concrete) as affected by internal cracking in concrete in the CEN/TS 12390-9 salt-frost slab-test was made. Increasing differential thermal expansion ice-concrete (∆α) and reduced E-modulus and Poisson ratio (ν) due to internal cracking were used based on data from Part 1 of this study. For the concrete specimens in Part 1 of this study [1] glue spall stress increased by 14 % due to internal cracking whereas reduced ice thickness of 1 – 2 mm due to accelerated Liquid Uptake (LU) in wet freeze/thaw reduced glue spall stress by 34 to 65 %. LU should hence be accounted for in modelling scaling, both due to reduced ice thickness and increased ∆α due to internal cracking. Increased crack penetration depth and its effect on scaled particle size due to internal cracking were also analyzed.
Interpretation of the Result of a Traditional Salt-Frost Scaling Test
Authors: Fagerlund Göran
Published: July 2024

Frost damage on the concrete surface might be aggravated when freezing occurs in the presence of a salt solution, like sea water or de-icing salt. A possible mechanism behind this combination of frost and salt is discussed. When freezing takes place in pure water, ice formed at the surface will block inflow of water to the concrete, but it will cause drying of the concrete. When freezing occurs in salt solution, unfrozen water (brine) can enter the concrete surface and make the concrete completely saturated. When pore water freezes, it exerts pressure. The effect of air-entrainment is favourable since it reduces the stresses. A calculation is made of the air requirement for concrete with w/c-ratio 0.45.
Hydration of Composite Cements Containing Novel SCMs
Authors: Zuschlag Pamela , Machner Alisa , Hemstad Petter , Kjellsen Knut O. , Zajac Maciej , Haha Mohsen Ben , Danner Tobias , Justnes Harald , Weerdt Klaartje De , Geiker Mette R
Published: July 2024

The impact of novel supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) on the phase assemblage and the pore structure in cement pastes was studied and linked to their impact on the compressive strength in mortar. The composite cements analysed had a composition of 78 wt.% Portland cement, 18 wt.% SCM and 4 wt.% limestone filler, and the samples were cured sealed for 91 days at 20°C. The investigated SCMs comprise natural materials such as clays and volcanic rocks (rhyolite and hyaloclastite), and industrial products such as fly ash, slag, oil shale ash, bio-fuel ash or bio-coal fly ash. The results revealed that all the SCMs except oil shale ash contribute to the phase assemblage in a similar way, when clinker is replaced with 18 wt.% SCM. The pore structure of the different cement pastes was similar. Even when the composite cement pastes showed a higher total intruded pore volume compared to the Portland cement paste sample, these samples showed higher compressive strength. This indicates that total intruded porosity is not the only contribution to strength.
Repair Options for Corrosion-damaged Prestressed Concrete Bridges
Authors: Sharma Suraksha , Osmolska Magdalena Jadwiga , Hornbostel Karla , Bathen Lise , Novakova Iveta , Geiker Mette
Published: July 2024

Prestressing of bridges allows construction of long spanned bridges made from thin structural members with high flexural and shear capacity. Studies have shown that some of the existing prestressed bridges are not meeting their designed service life due to corrosion of the tendons. The main reasons are poor construction practices in combination with inadequate inspection and maintenance plans. This paper provides a summary of repair options for corrosion-damaged prestressed concrete structures with focus on the individual components of the prestressed system. The applicability of identified repair options to Norwegian conditions is discussed.
Comparison and Joint Evaluation of Importance, Redundancy and Robustness Indicators Applied to Aging Prestressed Concrete Bridges
Authors: Sarmiento Silvia , Thöns Sebastian , González-Libreros Jaime , Björnsson Ivar , Sas Gabriel
Published: July 2024

A bridge failure can result in significant social, economic, and environmental problems; therefore, its reliability and risk management are essential. Bridges’ system reliability and risks are governed mainly by their redundancy and robustness, which currently are not adequately included in most design code specifications. Thus, in this study, a comprehensive comparison between relevant importance, redundancy, and robustness indicators found in the literature with different levels of complexity is carried out. The indicators under analysis have been used separately in different studies but have never been addressed together. Therefore, this study presents a joint evaluation of deterministic, reliability- and risk-based indicators to evaluate the differences in interpretation and information provided by the indicators. The approach is exemplified by analyzing a prestressed concrete bridge subjected to continuous degradation due to chloride ingress. A procedure is implemented to couple a metamodel-based reliability approach with a Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis (NLFEA). Based on the analysis performed, the comparison between indicators showed how different interpretations can be obtained depending on the implemented approach. Thus, creating more uniform formulations and agreeing on target values is necessary to help with redundancy and robustness interpretation.
Evaluation of Tonsillectomy Patients and Factors Related to Immediate Tonsillectomy
Authors: Vīksne Renāta , Poļikarpova Karoļina , Jenbajeva Ksenija
Published: July 2024

A retrospective cohort study was conducted with the aim to characterise tonsillectomy patients and identify factors related to the development of complicated cases of tonsillitis and consecutive immediate tonsillectomies in the Latvian population. The data of 493 patients were analysed. Patients were hospitalised from 1 January 2019 to 30 November 2020, for elective or immediate tonsillectomy due to recurrent tonsillitis, with or without exacerbation and complications. The patients who underwent elective tonsillectomy were younger than those who underwent immediate tonsil-lectomy. Peritonsillar abscess was more common in smokers than in non-smokers (p < 0.001). Smokers had immediate tonsillectomy more often than non-smokers (p < 0.001). Patients who underwent elective tonsillectomy had the shortest period of antibiotic therapy (p < 0.001). Patients who had immediate tonsillectomy had a longer hospitalisation time. Immediate tonsillectomies were associated with patients of older age, smokers, longer hospitalisation, and antibacterial treatment periods. Unilateral peritonsillar abscess was the most common complication of tonsillitis, which resulted in immediate tonsillectomy.
Morphological and Anatomical Juvenility Markers in Silver Birch (Betula pendula Roth) In Vitro Shoots
Authors: Girgžde Elva , Samsone Ineta , Krivmane Baiba , Gailis Arnis , Ruņģis Dainis
Published: July 2024

During plant development, woody plants progress from a juvenile phase to the reproductive mature phase. This process is marked by morphological, physiological, and biochemical changes, including loss of competence to vegetative reproduction. During in vitro stabilisation, mature tissues undergo rejuvenation, however, the exact degree of juvenility attained is not known and differing regeneration capabilities are observed between genotypes. Markers indicating juvenility state would assist the in vitro rejuvenation process and increase the efficiency of successful micropropagation. Several leaf and stem morphological and anatomical traits were analysed as possible juvenility markers in mature and rejuvenated silver birch in vitro shoots. The results showed that juvenility state of birch in vitro shoots varies between different genotypes and between plants from the same genotype. Mature birch in vitro shoots had approximately two times larger and thicker leaves compared to rejuvenated and juvenile shoots. Stem radius, including cortex, phloem, xylem and pith width as well as phloem width : stem radius and phloem width : xylem width ratio was significantly larger in mature shoots. Periderm development and loss of rooting ability were observed in mature shoots. These anatomical and morphological traits could be used as possible juvenility/maturation markers.
Studies on Species of the Ranunculus auricomus Complex in the Flora of Latvia: Ranunculus cassubicus Group
Authors: Evarts-Bunders Pēteris , Evarte-Bundere Gunta , Krasnopoļska Dana , Svilāne Inita , Bojāre Aiva
Published: July 2024

Traditionally, all authors in Latvia summarise all agamic species of the Ranunculus auricomus complex under three species, auricomus L., R. fallax (Wimm. et Grab) Sloboda, and R. cassubicus L. However, there are many compelling studies showing that the R. auricomus complex is a large assembly of apomictic microspecies. In this article, 17 species of the R. cassubicus group in Latvia are presented: R. angustior (Markl.) Ericss. R. cajanderi (Fagerstr.) Ericss., R. cassubicus L. s.str., R. circinatifrons (Markl.) Ericss., R. elatior (Fries.) Ericss., R. hannae Jasiew., R. imitans (Markl.) Ericss., R. inopinus (Markl.) Ericss., R. karelicus (Markl.) Ericss., R. macrantherus (Markl.) Ericss., R. niepolomicensis Jasiew., R. pawlowskii Jasiew., R. prorsidens (Markl.) Ericss., R. scalaridens (Markl.) Ericss., R. serratifrons (Markl.) Ericss., R. svirensis (Markl.) Ericss., and R. tranzschelii (Fagerstr.) Ericss.
Seasonal Dynamics of the Exotic Cherry Plum Aphid Brachycaudus Divaricatae (Hemiptera, Sternorrhyncha: Aphididae) on Prunus Cerasifera in Latvia, with Notes on Local Predators
Authors: Petrova Valentīna , Jankevica Līga , Stalažs Arturs
Published: July 2024

Brachycaudus divaricatae Shaposhnikov has spread in many European countries over the last decades, where it causes intensive damage to Prunus cerasifera. Forty P. cerasifera trees were monitored in 2013 at Dārziņi, on the outskirts of Riga city (Latvia), to obtain data on seasonal dynamics of an exotic aphid species, B. divaricatae. Brachycaudus divaricatae was predominant on its only known host plant species, P. cerasifera. Other aphid species were found on monitored trees: Brachycaudus sp., Hyalopterus pruni (Geoffroy) and Rhopalosiphum nymphaeae (L.). The target species, B. divaricatae was the most abundant, followed by H. pruni, but only B. divaricatae reached the highest infestation level. The latest date of registered B. divaricatae colonies was 31 October 2013. Many predatory arthropods belonging to Acari, Araneae, Coleoptera, Diptera, Hymenoptera, and Neuroptera were registered in B. divaricatae colonies. The most abundant predators were dipteran larvae from the families Cecidomyiidae and Syrphidae. Predatory dipterans most abundant were only at the beginning of the season (June). Later in the season, the number of spiders increased in aphid colonies, and of 365 spiders, 43.8% were members of the Linyphiidae family. Five ant species were caught in B. divaricatae colonies, and Formica cinerea Mayr was the most abundant.
Nexus between Unemployment, Income Inequality, Political Stability, and Economic Growth: An Empirical Study of the Nepalese Economy
Authors: Arjun Kumar Dahal , Prem Bahadur Budhathoki , Ganesh Bhattarai
Published: July 2024

This study aims to investigate the influence of political stability, unemployment, and income inequality on the economic growth of Nepal while also exploring the reciprocal impact of economic growth, unemployment, and political stability on income inequality within the country. It only uses secondary data from various World Bank reports and Nepal's economic surveys. It only covers 32 data points spanning from 1991 to 2022. The descriptive and exploratory research designs are used in this study. Simple statistical tools like correlation analysis, Unstandardized and standardized regression analysis, analysis of variance (ANOVA), residual statistics, histogram, and scatterplot for residual analysis are used in this analysis. Unemployment has negative and political stability positively impacts economic growth in Nepal. One percent increase in unemployment results in a 1.920 percent decrease in economic growth. Likewise, one percent increase in the political stability index results in a 0.804 percent increase in economic growth in Nepal. Unemployment hurts more on economic growth than income inequality in Nepal. Unemployment, political stability, and GDP growth are individually and jointly affected by income inequality in the nation. Political stability and economic growth decrease income inequality, but unemployment increases income inequality in the Nepalese economy. One unit increase in the political stability index and economic growth results in -4.356 and -0.117 unit decrease in income inequality in Nepal. The political stability index has a multiplier effect in decreasing income inequality. Unemployment causes income inequality. One unit increase in unemployment results in a 1.121 unit increase in income inequality. Unemployment has a multiplier effect on income determination in Nepal. About 39.7 percent variation in economic growth is determined by political stability, unemployment, and income inequality, but 46.7 percent in income inequality is determined by unemployment, economic growth, and political stability. Policymakers should consider a holistic approach that addresses income inequality, unemployment, and political stability to foster sustainable and inclusive economic growth. The abstract is not a substitute for the introduction.
The Effect of Leadership Styles on Employee Motivation and Organizational Performance in Public Sector Organizations
Authors: Sokolic Danijela , Croitoru Gabriel , Florea Nicoleta Valentina , Robescu Valentina Ofelia , Cosac Alexandru
Published: July 2024

The present study explores the impact of different leadership styles on the effective motivation of employees and hence on increasing organizational performance. Starting from the premise that a leadership style can play a crucial role in determining the level of employee motivation engagement and satisfaction, this research focuses on identifying the link between leadership style and employees work outcomes. In the specialized literature, leadership styles are frequently discussed in the context of employee motivation. By applying a mixed methodology, which combines quantitative analysis of survey data with qualitative case studies, the research aims to provide an in-depth understanding of how these leadership styles directly influence employee motivation and, indirectly, their performance. The results are expected to show a significant correlation between employee-oriented leadership styles and high levels of motivation, suggesting that leaders who adopt a more involved and supportive approach can significantly improve organizational performance. This research contributes to the existing literature by providing empirical evidence that underscores the importance of adopting appropriate leadership styles to maximize employee potential and optimize organizational outcomes. The findings provide valuable insights for organizational leaders and HR practitioners in developing effective leadership strategies to promote a motivating and high-performing work environment.