bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patterns of Domestic Animal-Vehicle Collisions on Tribal Lands in Montana, U.S.
Authors:   Western Transportation Institute, Bell Matthew A. , Huijser Marcel P.
Published: October 2024

Animal-vehicle collisions (AVCs) are a significant concern for motorist safety and pose a risk to both wildlife and domestic animals. This report analyzes spatial patterns of wildlife-vehicle collisions (WVCs) and domestic animal-vehicle collisions (DAVCs) on Montana’s tribal lands to identify high-risk areas and inform mitigation strategies. Data from the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) for large mammal carcasses (2008–2022) and reported crashes (2008–2020) were used to perform Kernel Density Estimation (KDE) and Getis-Ord Gi* (GOG) hotspot analyses for three tribal reservations with sufficient data: Blackfeet, Crow, and Flathead. The KDE results show distinct spatial patterns for DAVCs and WVCs on each reservation, with DAVC hotspots concentrated near agricultural and grazing areas, while WVC hotspots were associated with natural habitats and wildlife corridors. The GOG analysis further revealed that DAVC hotspots tend to be more temporally stable, suggesting that collisions with domestic animals are influenced by consistent factors such as livestock access points and grazing practices. In contrast, WVC hotspots were more variable, likely driven by changes in wildlife movement patterns and seasonal behavior. Overall, the findings indicate that the elevated rates of DAVCs on tribal lands, compared to non-tribal lands, are likely due to unique factors such as open range grazing practices and road infrastructure adjacent to grazing lands. This report emphasizes the need for targeted mitigation strategies on tribal roads, such as enhanced livestock fencing, road signage, and livestock underpasses in high-risk areas, to reduce collisions and improve safety for both motorists and animals. Understanding the distinct spatial and temporal patterns of DAVCs and WVCs is crucial for developing comprehensive mitigation approaches that enhance safety and connectivity on Montana’s tribal lands.
Research Institute of Internal and Preventive Medicine, Branch of the Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences
Authors: Shirinsky I. V. , Filatova E. Yu. , Shirinsky V. S.
Published: October 2024

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the clinical manifestations of osteoarthritis (OA) in combination with MS (OAMS) and their relationship with concentration of several circulating proinflammatory cytokines, the level of lipids in peripheral blood serum. Forty women patients with knee OA were examined: 19 patients from the experimental group in whom OA was combined with metabolic syndrome (MS), 21 patients with OA without MetS. All patients were elderly and overweight. In the first subgroup of patients, the absolute majority of people were obese, while in the second subgroup, overweight patients predominated. Patients in the experimental subgroup showed a statistically significant increase in waist circumference compared to patients without MS. The duration of OA did not differ in both subgroups. It has been established that the metabolic phenotype of gonarthrosis – OA in combination with metabolic syndrome – differs from patients with OA without MS in greater severity of pain, a decrease in the level of daily activity, an increase in the burden of the disease and other symptoms of OA. These core characteristics are associated with poor quality of life and clinically significant symptoms of depression. The metabolic type of gonarthrosis is characterized by more pronounced laboratory signs of systemic low-grade inflammation in comparison with patients without MS, as evidenced by a threefold increase in CRP content and an increase in the level of IL-6, IL-18 in PC serum. In addition, in patients with the metabolic phenotype of OA, a fivefold increase in the level of a specific humoral immune response to type 2 collagen (Col2Ab) and dyslipidemia – an increase in the content of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, with a comparable reduced level of HDL cholesterol – were revealed. It is concluded that the phenotype of OA in combination with MS is probably due to the pathogenetic similarity of OA and MS (syntropy), which is based on low-grade inflammation. Studying the pathogenesis of the OAMS phenotype and developing new principles for the treatment of multimorbidity should be based on patient-oriented approaches.
Construção e validação de instrumento para esterilidade relacionada a eventos de produtos para saúde processados
Authors: Vilas-Boas Vanessa Aparecida , Rondini Louise Assumpção , Czempik Thamiris Cavazzani Vegro , Lorenzetti Ada Helena Melo , Graziano Kazuko Uchikawa , Dini Ariane Polidoro
Published: October 2024

RESUMO Objetivo: Construir e validar instrumento para avaliar evento relacionado à manutenção da esterilidade de produtos para saúde processados. Métodos: Estudo metodológico para desenvolver instrumento mediante análise por comitê de juízes. Considerou-se como aspecto norteador a integridade das embalagens mais utilizadas na prática: a de não tecido e a de papel grau cirúrgico. A análise foi realizada pelo Índice de Validade de Conteúdo, Razão de Validade de Conteúdo ≥ 0,80 e Kappa modificado ≥ 0,74. Submeteu-se o instrumento ao pré-teste. Resultados: Participaram do comitê de juízes seis profissionais experientes na temática. Após duas rodadas, chegou-se à versão final do instrumento, contendo cinco dimensões. No pré-teste, participaram 30 profissionais de enfermagem, dos quais 86,67% consideraram o instrumento bom; e 90%, compreensível. Conclusões: A construção e validação seguiu as recomendações da literatura. O instrumento está disponível para ser utilizado, auxiliando no uso seguro do produto para saúde.
Protecting a complex intertidal habitat in the Severn Estuary affected by jetty construction
Authors: O’Connell Kevin E. , Dolphin Tony , Crowther Adam J. H. , Brayne Ralph , Roast Stephen D.
Published: October 2024

This case study presents a coastal engineering scheme that addressed a unique environmental challenge on a marine construction site. Artificially bunded reservoirs were constructed on the rocky shore of the Bristol Channel, UK, to mitigate the potential impact to ecological features of the Severn Estuary/Môr Hafren Special Area of Conservation resulting from the construction of a jetty at the Hinkley Point C construction site. The installation of piles irreversibly altered the natural supply of seawater from several large rock pools to Corallina officinalis (red seaweed) waterfalls, that the developer, Electricité de France, was obliged to protect. Corallina can die within 30 min of drying out. Following rigorous topographic surveys of the foreshore, hydrodynamic modelling and an evolution of protective measures, concrete structures were designed and installed to ensure the Corallina waterfalls were passively supplied with a constant flow of seawater throughout the tidal cycle. The artificial bunds had to be sympathetic to the natural environment while sufficiently durable to withstand the high-energy conditions of the intertidal site. A local wave buoy 13.5-year dataset shows that the scheme has withstood the two highest wave heights recorded, one of which was the third highest storm peak.
The future of Approved Inspectors: liable or not liable?
Authors: El Daouk Mohamad
Published: October 2024

This paper examines the liability of Approved Inspectors to their contracting parties and third parties under the Defective Premises Act 1972. It contends that Approved Inspectors owe a duty of care to a broader range of claimants, especially when providing design input for dwellings. This perspective contrasts with the ruling in Herons Court v Heronslea (2019), which indicated that Approved Inspectors do not owe a duty of care under section 1(1) of the 1972 Act, a decision that may be misinterpreted as exempting them from liability. The paper distinguishes between two types of contracts for Approved Inspectors: Type A contracts, which involve only statutory functions as per section 49(1)(b) of the Building Act 1984 and regulation 5 of the Building (Approved Inspectors, etc.) Regulations 2010, and Type B contracts, which include additional design and professional services. In both cases, the contract serves as a critical basis for claimants to establish a duty of care, potentially allowing for concurrent relief in tort and statute.
Developing modern construction professionals with a focus on timber – a UK case study
Authors: Hitt Sarah Jayne , Hairstans Robert , Oloke David , Bertasso Steve , Tamagnone Gabriele , Shirley Ben
Published: October 2024

The Centre for Advanced Timber Technology (CATT) was established in 2021 at the New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering (NMITE) in Hereford, UK, to be a catalyst for expanding the use of sustainable timber in modern construction and changing the way built environment professionals are educated. The educational approach of NMITE is to apply a student-centric learning methodology with a curriculum fuelled by real-world challenges and taught by way of a partnership approach working with external stakeholders, industry practitioners, and academic collaborators. The focus of CATT is to increase the use of timber as an environmentally sound biogenic and ecological construction material based on a holistic value proposition (productivity, environmental and social impact, plus cost and building performance over time). In developing educational offerings that respond to these aims, CATT widens access to the construction industry while fostering development of the twenty-first century skills necessary for professionals to design and deliver a sustainable built environment. This case study describes lessons learned from the development of this award-winning educational programme and its innovative delivery model.
A systematic review of hybrid passive energy dissipating devices
Authors: Almajhali Khalil Yahya Mohammed , Alhaddad Wael
Published: October 2024

When earthquakes occur, they release a considerable amount of elastic strain energy, which is measured by peak ground acceleration (PGA). To reduce the impact of this energy, buildings can be fitted with dampers. These include passive energy dissipation devices, which are effective in mitigating the effects of both high and low PGA. Hybrid dampers, which combine multiple devices, enhance strengths and minimise weaknesses, significantly improving a building’s seismic resilience by reducing roof displacement, drift, inter-storey, floor acceleration and base shear. These dampers are the focus of extensive research, emphasising their role in seismic performance enhancement. Despite numerous studies, their application in concrete structures remains under-explored, presenting a vast scope for advancement in the design, development and implementation of hybrid damping devices. These devices are particularly valued for their superior vibration control capabilities, offering a promising avenue for bolstering structural stability.
The bearing characteristics of a single pile in a heterogeneous layered foundation
Authors: Wang Zhengzhen , Huang Lei , Dai Guoliang , Cao Chengming , Zhu Wentao
Published: October 2024

Based on a project in Lanzhou city, Gansu province, China, the bearing and internal force characteristics of two piles of different lengths under vertical load were tested and analysed using Brillouin optical frequency-domain analysis and an anchor pile static load test. The results showed that the longer pile had higher vertical bearing capacity and greater elastic working range, but the axial forces of the long and short piles showed the same trend. It was also found that the lateral friction resistance of the soil layer around the pile plays a role earlier than the pile tip resistance, and the lateral friction resistance of the upper soil layer plays a role earlier than the lower soil layer. The increasing amplitude of lateral friction resistance in different soil layers was also found to differ. The settlement of the short pile top was mostly caused by displacement of the pile bottom and the pile tip resistance was more affected by pile tip sediments. The relationship between pile end resistance and displacement under the influence of sediments can be analysed by a threefold line model.
Determining the Impact of Adaptive Games on the Individuals’ Psycho-Emotional State among Different Age Groups in Poland and Ukraine
Authors: Skaliy Aleksander , Mulyk Viacheslav , Skaliy Tetiana , Maksymova Kateryna , Mulyk Kateryna
Published: October 2024

Objectives. The study aimed to determine the effectiveness of implementating projects for the introduction of adaptive sports games on the psycho-emotional state of different population groups in Poland and Ukraine.
Materials and methods. A total of 341 individuals were involved in the study: 117 children (8-12 years old), 118 middle-aged people (35-60 years old), and 116 elderly people (60 years and older). The participants of the study were divided into two groups: those who took part in the Polish project “Academic Center of Sports and Health Games for Activation of People with Special Needs” (56 children, 65 adults, 73 elderly people), and those who took part in the Polish-Ukrainian project, which was conducted directly in Ukraine, “Ukrainian Center of Occupational Therapy through Adaptive Games” (61 children, 53 adults, 44 elderly people). All study participants were engaged in adaptive games (Cornhole, Jacollo, Elastik, Kulbutto, Boccia, Paka laka) for the first time. At the beginning and end of the event on adaptive games, a survey of participants was conducted. To determine the psycho-emotional state of children, the WAM method (well-being, activity, mood) was used, and the features of adults’ psychological state were assessed using the standard test AWAMW (anxiety, working capacity, activity, mood, well-being).
Results. The analysis of the obtained study results revealed positive changes in the psycho-emotional state of different population groups in Poland and Ukraine under the influence of adaptive sports games. Furthermore, the adult population, including the elderly of Poland and Ukraine, demonstrated decreased anxiety levels and a significant enhancement in activity, mood and well-being due to engaging in adaptive sports games.  
Conclusions. This study emphasizes the potential of adaptive sports games to improve the mental health of different population groups. The findings also indicate the effectiveness of implementating projects for the introduction of adaptive games on the psycho-emotional state of different population groups both in Poland and Ukraine.
Current Opinion in Clinical Management of Human Cystic Echinococcosis in the Liver
Authors: António Menezes da Silva
Published: October 2024

Cystic echinococcosis remains a serious and threatening disease in countries on all continents where it is endemic. It is a zoonosis that continues to be neglected, despite all the efforts of the teams working on it and the WHO. Therefore, it is never too much to remember the clinical management of this disease in humans. This is what we intend in this manuscript. The disease is caused by the larval stages of cestodes (tapeworms) of the genus Echinococcus found in the small intestine of carnivores, which infects humans due to accidental ingestion of eggs of these parasites. The most frequent and most widespread across all continents is cystic echinococcosis, caused by Echinococcus granulosus (sensu lato). The annual incidence of CE can range from less than 1 to 200 per 100,000 inhabitants in various endemic areas. In China and Central Asia, the population risk is more than 40 million people, with a mortality rate of about 2% - 4%. Objectives: One of the objectives of this manuscript is to recall the parasite cycle and the form of contamination, a very important public health aspect, and draw attention to this neglected zoonosis that affects millions of people, particularly in the countries of Central Asia, the Mediterranean basin and South America. Last but not least, we intend to draw attention to the correct nomenclature in relation to the terms that define the disease, the different stages, and the proper designations, particularly with regard to therapeutic modalities. Method: The manuscript also aims to describe the form of contamination of the disease, the diagnostic methods, in particular the use of ultrasound, and the therapeutic modalities, some of which, particularly the invasive ones, must be carried out in Centres dedicated to the study and treatment of this zoonosis. Conclusion: Despite these important data and the socioeconomic impact Echinococcosis remains a neglected disease. Given this situation, all forms of echinococcosis remain serious public health threats, particularly in South America, the Mediterranean basin, and Central Asia, which must deserve the attention of the states of these continents and the WHO.
Staining Experiment and Sorting of 293F Cells v1
Authors: A. Popp Nicholas
Published: October 2024

This protocol details the staining and sorting of 293F cells.
Chronic testing of temporal patterns of spinal cord stimulation in the rat v1
Authors: Lambert Katherine , Grill Warren
Published: October 2024

This protocol outlines the surgical processes and paw withdrawal threshold testing of spinal cord stimulation patterns in the spared nerve injury model of chronic pain in the rat.
Prediction of machine state for non-Gaussian degradation model using Hidden Markov Model approach
Authors: Janczura Joanna , Żuławiński Wojciech , Shiri Hamid , Barszcz Tomasz , Zimroz Radosław , Wyłomańska Agnieszka
Published: October 2024

Machinery health management becomes an essential issue in many sectors. The ultimate goal is to predict machinery degradation and accordingly plan maintenance actions. However, prediction becomes much harder if data is noisy. We propose a procedure for on-line prediction of the forthcoming machine state. This procedure is dedicated to the non-Gaussian (impulsive) health index (HI) data. It is based on a simplified degradation model with three machine states, i.e. healthy, warning and alarm, described in terms of a Hidden Markov Model (HMM). Using simulated trajectories we demonstrate that the α-stable HMM dedicated to time series with impulsive behaviour outperforms the classical Gaussian approach and can be an efficient alternative in such a case. In particular, the percentage errors of the predicted alarm state transition points decrease from 20%−45% to 1%−6%, if the α-stable HMM is used instead of the Gaussian one. We illustrate the proposed methodology for two datasets acquired during experiment on the VIBstand test rig and for a benchmark FEMTO dataset.
Opportunistic maintenance for a novel load-sharing system with dependent degradation rate and volatility
Authors: Chen Wei , Hao Songhua
Published: October 2024

For traditional degrading load-sharing systems, a typical assumption lies in the only effect of unit load on its degradation rate. However, motivated by a laser system example with positive correlation between degradation rate and volatility, we present a novel load-sharing system with general degradation rate-volatility-load correlation. Furthermore, to take account for unit economic dependence caused by sharable maintenance set-up cost, and the window period generated by the maintenance on some unit, opportunistic maintenance (OM) strategy is introduced to offer the opportunity of simultaneously maintaining another working unit under control-limit criteria. Based on the semi-regenerative process, the long-run average cost rate is minimized to obtain the optimal inspection interval, preventive maintenance and OM thresholds. Compared to the traditional condition-based maintenance strategy separately for each unit, the effectiveness of OM strategy is validated through numerical examples and case studies, offering broad managerial insights for engineers to reduce maintenance expenses.
RURAL TOURISM OF CHERKASY REGION: COMMUNICATION, PARTNERSHIP AND CLUSTER COOPERATION
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, DOVHAN Nataliia , TARABAROVA Inna ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine
Published: October 2024

The article examines rural tourism development in the Cherkasy Region and the possible diversification of the rural economy by analysing communication, partnership and cluster cooperation between entrepreneurs, local authorities, the community and educators. The theoretical block of the study is aimed at studying the concepts of "well-being", "rural area", "rural life", " neo-rural entrepreneurs ", "communication", "network connections", "partnership" and "cluster". The essence and content of the main concepts were revealed, as well as the connection between the concepts of "welfare" and "diversification", "communication" and "partnership", "neo-rural entrepreneurs" and "values of rural life" was established. The application block is based on the results of the hackathon "Diversification of rural economy through a network of public consultation centers of tourism" for active and interested representatives of Cherkasy Region. It has been established that mutual understanding, communication and support, joint work and learning are exactly the model of partnership that solves the problem of network connections, which in turn will lead to diversification of incomes, as well as increased well-being in rural areas, and can become the basis of cluster cooperation, which will allow rational use of the potential of local entrepreneurs to create a high-quality tourist service and product. A four-way partnership with the participation of entrepreneurs, the local community, local authorities and educators is precisely the combination of forces and resources that goes beyond the scope of ordinary business exchange and allows us to realize common goals and achieve success. The obtained conclusions can be the basis for further strategies regarding the diversification of the tourism-oriented rural economy in the region.
Specifics of Parental Identity of Substitute Mothers
Authors: Kurdalina I.A. , Oslon V.N.
Published: October 2024

The article presents the results of a master’s study of the specifics of the parental identity of substitute mothers with teenage children. Parental attitudes, the degree of acceptance of the parental role, the ratio of ideas about the ideal mother and about oneself as a mother, the stage of personal identity were considered as components of their parental identity. It is proved that the identity of foster mothers has its own specifics, which is expressed in inconsistency, insufficient acceptance of the parental position, attitudes towards an overprotective parenting style of foster children, insufficient attention to the emotional side of the relationship with the child, with higher assessments of their parental competencies compared to biological mothers. The study involved 60 mothers, 30 of whom raised their own children and 30 adopted ones.
Psychological Well-being and Resilience of Substitute Mothers
Authors: Zaytseva A.S. , Egorova M.A.
Published: October 2024

This article analyzes the relationship between psychological well-being and resilience in the context of attitudes toward adopted children among foster mothers. The hypothesis suggests that a mother’s active participation in upbringing promotes democratic relationships with the child and creative approaches to problem-solving, and that her psychological well-being depends on an optimistic attitude and willingness to cooperate with the child. The respondents were 48 foster mothers, raising between 1 and 7 adopted children. The average age of the substitute mothers was 40 ± 6 years. To test the hypothesis, the following methods were used: the “Resilience Test” by S. Maddi, the “Psychological Well-Being Scale” by K. Ryff, the “Parental Attitude Diagnostics” questionnaire by A.Ya. Varga and V.V. Stolin, and the “Personal change-readiness survey” in the adaptation by N.A. Bazhanova, G.L. Bardier. The study confirmed the hypothesis and identified a connection between psychological well-being and resilience in substitute mothers. It was also established that the well-being and ability of a substitute mother to withstand social pressure depend on her ability to cope with stress, her readiness for self-realization, and her ability to achieve goals. A high level of psychological well-being contributes to the enjoyment of raising an adopted child.
Legal regulation of environmental entrepreneurship: interaction between the state and business
Authors: Darkina M. M. , Korotkova O. V.
Published: October 2024

The article explores the important aspects of the development of legal regulation of environmental entrepreneurship in the Russian Federation in the framework of interaction between the state and business. The relevance of the study of legal regulation of ecological entrepreneurship in the Russian Federation is conditioned by the ongoing changes in the sphere of politics, economics, law and ecology. Despite the importance of this form of economic activity for the development of the economy in its crisis state, there is a noticeable shortage of legal norms in the legislation, the subject of regulation of which would be environmental entrepreneurship. The article reveals the basics of state policy in the field of ecology, examines the problems of interaction between business and the state. It is emphasized that the level of development of the sphere of ecology largely determines the process of economic activity, which directly involves natural resources, directly using them as the main means of profit making and often having an indirect negative impact on the natural environment.
Legal and organizational problems of development and production of innovative medicines in Russia
Authors: Trofimova E. V.
Published: October 2024

The article outlines the range of problems facing the Russian pharmaceutical industry as a segment of the real sector of the economy that ensures the health of the population. The necessity of an integrated approach to the formation of a model for the organization of scientific research, innovation and production activities in the designated area is substantiated; an organizational model is proposed that ensures the development and production of innovative medicines; individual legal measures aimed at increasing the effectiveness of state support for the development and production of innovative medicines (normative consolidation of the concept of an innovative drug and a scientific and technological consortium, the inclusion of scientific and educational organizations of higher education among the subjects of industrial clusters). The results of the research can be used in law-making activities and public administration practice.
The protection of the right to participate in corporation: the search for a balance between the interests of subjects in a relationship
Authors: Oborov A. S.
Published: October 2024

The article is devoted to the general method of protecting a corporation participant. Based on scientific literature, a theoretical foundation for the considered method of protection was established. The author suggests approaches to interpreting current legislation based on the level of control exercised by the subjects defending the right.
Geçmişten Günümüze Beyşehir Gölü Mada Adası’nda İskân ve Beşerî Faaliyetler
Authors: Muşmal Hüseyin
Published: October 2024

Öz
Çok sayıda ada ve kayalığın yer aldığı Beyşehir Gölü’nde bulunan adaların en büyüğü Mada Adası’dır. Bağlı bulunduğu Isparta’nın Şarkîkaraağaç İlçesi’ne 35 km mesafede ve kıyıya 800 m uzaklıkta bulunan ada, 8.220 hektarlık bir alana ve 800-900 dönüm ekilebilir bir araziye sahip bulunmaktadır. Ana karaya yakınlığının yanı sıra içme suyunun bulunması, ekime elverişli geniş arazilere sahip olması ve doğal güzellikleri nedeniyle insan yaşamına uygun şartlarından dolayı tarihî süreçte yerleşim alanı olarak seçildiği söylenebilir. Bu nedenle Roma döneminden itibaren önemli bir yerleşim merkezi olan Mada Adası’nın çok sayıda zorunlu veya gönüllü yerleşime sahne olduğu ve sürekli göç alıp verdiği anlaşılmaktadır. Türk hâkimiyeti döneminde devletin tarımsal ve hayvansal üretimi sağlamak adına adadaki beşerî faaliyetleri canlı tutmaya çalıştığı ve çeşitli aralıklarla adaya iskân faaliyetlerinde bulunduğu görülmektedir. Neticede Mada Adası yaklaşık 1.000 yıllık bir zaman zarfında farklı din, mezhep, etnik yapı, kültür ve hayat tarzlarına sahip Hıristiyan Rumlar, Müslüman Türkler, Rus Kazakları, Çeçenler ve Yörükler gibi çeşitli topluluklara ev sahipliği yapmıştır. Anadolu’nun iç suları üzerinde insan yaşamı bulunan tek adası olan Mada, bu yönüyle de oldukça ilgi çekici bir serüvene sahip olmuştur. Özellikle kış aylarında suyun tamamen veya kısmen donmasıyla birlikte göl üzerinde bir buz örtüsü oluşması nedeniyle kayıkların kullanılması mümkün olmadığından ulaşım ancak göl üzerinde yürüyerek sağlanabilmektedir. Günümüzde üzerinde Kumluca isimli bir mahallenin yer aldığı adada, bağlı olduğu Gedikli Köyü’nün hemen yakınında yer almasına karşın sahip olduğu bazı şartlar nedeniyle nispeten izole bir yaşam sürdürülmektedir. Bununla birlikte günümüzde Türkiye’nin göl ortasında yaşam bulunan yegâne adasında geleneksel kültürlerini korumaya çalışan Yörükler yaşam mücadelesi vermeye devam etmektedir.
Hybrid Wars as a New Phenomenon in the Global World
Authors:   Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, Khudokormov Georgii A.
Published: October 2024

The article examines the phenomenon of hybrid warfare, which has become a particularly prominent phenomenon at the beginning of the 21st century. It briefly describes the practice of using hybrid methods of conflict in previous eras, as well as considers the chronology of hybrid conflicts and the evolution of related concepts in detail. The study describes specific examples of successful operations during conflicts with signs of hybrid war. As one example of successful hybrid confrontation with the collective West, it gives a historical analysis of Iran's policy in protecting national interests. At the current stage of deployment of hybrid operations, the foreign policy of the Russian Federation is also under study. Both defensive and offensive aspects of this policy are being examined. Successful and unsuccessful foreign policy tools for hybrid counteraction that have already led to increases or decreases in the country's authority on the global stage are considered. In the final part of the paper, a hypothesis is presented regarding the increasing vulnerability of countries to non-military methods of conflict and their growing prevalence. Therefore, the author believes that this highlights the importance of the issues discussed in the article and the significance of the problem under study.
On the Evolution of Institutional Design in the Context of Economic Fragmentation
Authors:   Southern Federal University, Ipatova Anna V.
Published: October 2024

An attempt is made to substantiate the categories of "institutional design" and "economic fragmentation" in the context of the evolution of state regulation. The characteristic of the processes of economic fragmentation is given, indicating the need for transformation in the formation of the basic institutional matrix of society. The interaction of economic agents is carried out in the implementation of their motivational aspects, but with a significant influence of external factors. In this regard, the focus of institutional design is based on the development of key parameters that affect the possibilities of subordination of interests at the micro, meso, macro and mega levels of the economic system. A special place in the study is devoted to development institutions that form the institutional shell for the implementation of the innovative component of economic modernization at the "center-regions" levels. The change of subjects forming systemic interaction contributes to the evolution of the mechanism of institutional design and transforms the fullness of state regulation instruments in conditions of economic fragmentation.
BRICS and G7: Global Competition
Authors:   Dostoevsky Omsk State University, Karpov Albert L.
Published: October 2024

The goals and policies of the BRICS contradict the policy of the unipolar world, which perpetuates the dependence of developing countries on highly developed countries. This fact makes the BRICS and G7 international associations direct competitors with mutually opposite goals and interests. In such a formulation of the issue, strengthening and increasing the competitiveness of one integration association should lead to weakening and reducing the competitiveness of another integration association. Recently, the size of countries and the size of their populations have not been considered key factors in their competitiveness. However, if we talk about the BRICS member countries, they use these two advantages as a basis for economic growth. The area of the territory of the BRICS countries was 1.85 times the area of the G7, and the population was more than 4 times as of the end of 2022. The current trend towards the entry of new member countries into the BRICS should lead to an even greater advantage in these indicators. The economic growth of the BRICS countries is based on the use of resources and investments, while the economic growth of the G7 countries is based on accumulated wealth, military and political influence in the world. A comparison of the two integration associations in terms of real GDP growth PPP shows that the annual GDP growth of the BRICS countries exceeds the GDP growth of the G7 countries. In addition, the real GDP growth of the BRICS countries is outpacing the growth of global GDP. Key indicators characterizing the size and pace of economic growth indicate the potential for further development of the BRICS and strengthening its competition with the G7 integration bloc. The BRICS countries have shown good economic growth rates even despite the external and internal challenges associated with the crisis in the global economy and numerous economic sanctions. At the same time, the economic development of the BRICS countries is not only quantitative, but also qualitative. Unlike the G7, it is based on the formation and expansion of a free trade system within the integration bloc and the formation of economic institutions that allow overcoming trade barriers between the countries of the association, as well as increasing investment through the New Development Bank created within the BRICS. The success of development and interaction of countries within BRICS attracts new member countries. In 2024, four more countries joined the BRICS bloc, such as Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Ethiopia, and currently many more countries are taking the initiative and wish to become members of the integration association. However, competition in the Challenger-Leader format, in addition to incentives for economic growth on the basis of fair competition, simultaneously creates incentives for mutual economic, political and military blocking of the development of countries of the competing bloc, which creates great risks of slowing down global economic development in the future.
Experiences of Oregon Community College Faculty Who Are New to Online Teaching
Authors:   , Daniel Rochelle , Budhai Stephanie
Published: October 2024

The demand for college faculty to teach online has increased substantially over recent years (Jaschik & Lederman, 2022; Perrotta & Bohan, 2020). However, online courses are often ineffectual (Hart et al., 2018; Su & Waugh, 2018) and expand gaps in equity and student achievement (Sublett, 2022). These problems may be linked to insufficient professional development (Bawa, 2016), and recent studies indicate that faculty often lack training in online teaching (DeVaul et al., 2023; Gordy et al., 2022; Maniruzzaman, 2022; Walsh et al., 2021). Moreover, faculty who are new to online teaching (5 of fewer years of experience) may lack confidence in their ability to effectively teach online (Martin et al., 2019). Online learning can benefit diverse student populations like those who attend Oregon's community colleges (Oregon Secretary of State, 2022). However, there is a scarcity of research available on community college faculty members' online teaching preparedness (Vang et al., 2020). The purpose of this qualitative interpretative phenomenological study was to explore the experiences of community college faculty members who are new to online teaching. Data was obtained through qualitative surveys and one-on-one semi-structured interviews. Results from this study can provide stakeholders such as educational leaders and policy makers with deeper insights about the experiences of online faculty and the types of practices and policies that may impact them. Keywords: faculty training, community college, online teaching
A Transcendental Phenomenological Study on the Impact of High-Stakes Assessments on Teacher Efficacy and Pedagogical Practices of Early Career Mathematics Teachers
Authors:   , Askew Erica , Budhai Stephanie
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this qualitative transcendental phenomenological study was to understand how high-stakes assessments shape the teacher efficacy and instructional practices of early career secondary mathematics teachers within Title I schools. With the increasing pressure on school districts to meet accountability standards, early career mathematics teachers may feel uncertain about their ability to implement effective pedagogical practices that lead to student success on high-stakes assessments. This study provides insight to school administrators on how to support early career secondary mathematics teachers as they consider the measures of high-stakes accountability within their instructional practices. The study's findings offer context into the experiences of early career secondary mathematics teachers as it relates to best supporting their instructional practices. Drawing upon the elements of American educational policies that drive the focus of accountability measures, the literature review provides insight to the relationship between high-stakes assessments, early career teacher self-efficacy, and their pedagogical practices utilized for student achievement. The following research questions have guided this study: 1. How do early career secondary mathematics teachers at Title I schools describe their efficacy for teaching under high-stakes assessment accountability policies? 2. In what ways do early career secondary teachers at Title I schools describe their experience being required to teach mathematics courses with high-stakes assessments attached to them? 3. How do early career secondary mathematics teachers describe the instructional practices they utilize while preparing students for high-stakes assessment? Recommendations and suggestions for future research are provided to guide school leaders in assisting teachers in attaining measures of high-stakes accountability while best supporting their pedagogical practices and self-efficacy for the field.
Navigating High Turnover in the Workplace
Authors:   , Bader Brandon , Kiosoglous Cameron
Published: October 2024

By bridging insights from professional sports team-building and corporate human resources, this research provides actionable recommendations for external organizations to cultivate robust talent pipelines, optimize human capital investments, and sustain competitive advantages through strategic staffing methodologies. The research's findings hold implications for refining an external organization's talent acquisition strategies, bolstering workforce planning efforts, and fortifying initiatives aimed at enhancing employee retention.
Eficiência da atividade de order picking orientada por algoritmo baseado na heurística S-shape: uma investigação exploratória
Authors: Santos Cleuson Sousa , Henklain Marcelo Henrique Oliveira , Lobo Felipe Leite , Barreto Yaritza
Published: October 2024

O processo de order picking (OP), que consiste na busca e separação de itens que compõem um pedido em um centro de distribuição (CD), se notabiliza por ser o que mais impacta nos custos de operação de um armazém. Por isso os CDs precisam de estratégias para otimizar o atendimento de pedidos de modo a atingir padrões de competitividade de classe mundial. Esse desafio é especialmente complexo no caso de pequenos CDs, que não dispõem de recursos para automatizar toda a operação e precisam alcançar competitividade por meio de uma associação entre máquinas e seres humanos. Para lidar com este problema, esta pesquisa investigou o impacto do auxílio do algoritmo que implementa a heurística S-Shape com a indicação do endereço dos itens sobre a atividade de OP realizada por seres humanos. Essa atividade consistiu na busca de itens para atender a um pedido, dentro de um CD de medicamentos. Participaram dois trabalhadores experientes cuja tarefa foi buscar listas de medicamentos no menor tempo possível. A cada momento, o pesquisador passava uma lista para cada participante, ora contendo apenas os medicamentos para que o participante buscasse na ordem que julgasse mais conveniente, ora contendo uma determinação dada pelo algoritmo que implementa a heurística S-Shape com endereçamento sobre a ordem na qual os medicamentos precisavam ser obtidos. A organização da coleta se deu de modo a atender aos requisitos do delineamento de linha de base múltipla com comparação entre participantes. Verificou-se neste estudo que há aumento da eficiência da atividade de order picking quando executada com rota preestabelecida pelo algoritmo e endereçamento de itens em comparação com a execução da atividade por rota determinada segundo critérios específicos do separador.
Informe anual del Índice de Desarrollo de la Banda Ancha: brecha digital en América Latina y el Caribe: IDBA 2023
Authors: García Zaballos Antonio , Iglesias Rodriguez Enrique , Puig Gabarró Pau
Published: October 2024

Este informe describe y presenta los resultados del Índice de Desarrollo de la Banda Ancha (IDBA) en América Latina y el Caribe (ALC). El IDBA permite medir la brecha digital en ALC mediante la evaluación del desarrollo de la banda ancha en los 26 países prestatarios del Banco Interamericano de Desarrollo (BID) y también en países adicionales de referencia de otras regiones (65 naciones en total). Para cada país hay observaciones para los últimos 9 años que permiten analizar la tendencia. La principal brecha entre los países de ALC y la OCDE corresponde al desarrollo de infraestructura y, aunque la Región ha realizado avances importantes, la brecha en los últimos años ha aumentado.
Contextos e Questões sobre EaD: um Estudo de Caso com um Estudante Cego
Authors: Marchiori Gustavo Silva , Lima Solange Cabral de , Nascimento Rayane Pereira do , Reis Clara Sabino , Rosario Miguel Longo Vieira Vidal do , Gomes Alícia Carrilho
Published: October 2024

Este artigo consiste em um estudo de caso que trata de questões relativas à inclusão da pessoa com deficiência na educação a distância. Através de uma entrevista com um discente com deficiência visual desta modalidade de ensino, buscamos compreender aspectos significativos da relação entre educação a distância e a inclusão. Percebemos que a educação a distância tem potencial inclusivo para este discente desde sua origem, eliminando barreiras presentes na educação presencial. A evolução das tecnologias de informação e comunicação é outro fator que colabora para uma educação mais acessível. No entanto, percebe-se que ainda são necessárias melhorias gerais para uma educação inclusiva adequada.     
 
Palavras-chave: Ensino superior. Educação a distância. Inclusão. Deficiência visual.
Cem Anos de Solidão: a Educação a Distância no Brasil – Percepções Negativas Antes e Depois da Pandemia
Authors: Viana Leonardo , Campos Milton N. , Álvarez Ibis M. , Proba Fabiane , Lo Bianco Vittório
Published: October 2024

Com o centenário da educação a distância (EAD) no Brasil, completado em 2023, o artigo traz estudo exploratório descritivo de comparação das representações sociais negativas sobre a modalidade de ensino antes e depois da pandemia do coronavírus (2019 e 2023). O objetivo é refletir sobre a formação de um aparente preconceito em relação à EAD no país - de origem histórica, econômica e sociocultural - a partir da presente pesquisa do campo psicossocial, realizada com 1.000 candidatos do Vestibular Cederj – Centro de Educação Superior a Distância do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, nos referidos anos. A obra “Cem anos de solidão” de García Márquez inspira analogia sobre o “isolamento” da EAD, pelo pouco reconhecimento que parece ter marcado seus cem anos de existência. O percentual de participantes que apresentaram percepções negativas relacionadas à EAD esteve praticamente sem alteração nos períodos pré e pós-pandemia (42% em 2019 e 43% em 2023). Os dados foram coletados pela técnica de evocação de palavras inspirada em Abric, por meio de indagações ao ego (eu) e ao alter (outro). Amparados pela abordagem teórico-metodológica das Ágoras de Viana, analisamos os resultados com destaque para o fato de que as avaliações negativas sobressaíram significativamente em ambos os anos quando os pesquisados foram indagados a partir do alter e não do ego. O fato evidenciou que a construção do pensamento do indivíduo, influenciada pela sua condição de ser social, é fator preponderante para a formação das Ágoras: agrupamentos por afinidades de representações sociais. 
 
Palavras-chave: Educação a distância. Representações sociais. Preconceito. Pandemia do coronavírus. Ágoras.
Optimization of Fly-Ash to Soil Mix Ratio and Curing Period for Subgrade Use
Authors: Karim M A
Published: October 2024

A laboratory study was conducted to determine the optimum fly-ash to soil ratio that can be used as a road subgrade to improve strength and compactability. Proctor compaction, grain size distribution, Atterberg limits, and unconfined compression tests were conducted. Proctor compaction test was conducted to determine the optimum moisture content and maximum dry density of soil samples with 0%, 40%, 50%, and 60% fly-ash content. Atterberg limits and grain size distribution tests were conducted to classify the soil. Unconfined compression test was conducted with air-dry curing periods of 0, 2, 8, and 28 days to determine the strength. Curing periods help understand the strength gained with time. It is obvious from the study that the optimum soil to fly-ash mixture was a mixture of soil and 50% fly-ash which is expected to perform better as subgrade materials for a curing period of 8 days; however, a mixture of soil with 40% fly-ash content could also be used as a viable alternative for the same curing period.
Analysis of Influence Factors on Line Shape of High-speed Railway Beam-Arch Combination Bridge
Authors: Chen Daihai , Xu Zhenqi , Qiu Yuanmiao
Published: October 2024

Taking the prestressed continuous beam-arch composite bridge on the Zheng Wan High-speed Railway as a research object, which across the South-to-North Water Transfer in Zhang Liang Town, the space finite element model of the bridge was established by Midas/Civil, the cantilever casting construction process of the main beam was simulated, and the influence of many different parameters on beam line shape of the bridge was investigate. The results show that the unbalanced weight of the hanging basket and the prestressed steel bar parameters have less influence on the beam line shape; the bulk density of concrete and the arrangement length of counterweight have a great influence on line shape, therefore, these should be considered as key control parameters during construction, the counterweight of boom beam can reduce the deformation of bridge’s mid-span, it is advantageous for the Analysis of Influence Factors on Line Shape of High-speed Railway Beam-arch Combination Bridge line shape control of the bridge.