bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dialekt i elevers transspråkande i ett finlandssvenskt klassrum
Authors: Nyman-Koskinen Paulina
Published: December 2024

Denna kvalitativa studie fokuserar på en flerspråkig klassrumskontext där 9–10-åriga elever i årskurs 3 och deras lärare använder en finlandssvensk dialekt och standardsvenska i interaktion med varandra. Syftet är att med metoder från interaktionell sociolingvistik redogöra för och utöka kunskapen om hur dialekten används i elevinitierat transspråkande i lärar-elevinteraktion i helklass samt utreda vilken roll lärarstyrd interaktion spelar för hur dialekten används. Materialet inkluderar transkriberat audio- och videomaterial samt fältanteckningar från en 45-minuters lektion. Analysen visar att transspråkandet är en naturlig praktik i lärarstyrd lärar-elevinteraktion i helklass: Eleverna använder dialekt och standardsvenska dynamiskt och fritt för att skapa mening och läraren, som har kunskap i dialekt, bygger för sin del vidare på detta meningsskapande. Studien visar att det finns ett transspråkande utrymme i klassen där eleverna kan röra sig fritt mellan dialekt och standardsvenska och där även läraren beaktar båda resurserna i sin undervisning.
December 2024 Full Issue
Authors: Pierie Laura
Published: December 2024

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Nilai Mantra Gawai Dayak Kalimantan Barat
Authors: Widiyarto Sigit , Ati Aster Pujaning , Hadi Irfan , Saputri Nia Liska , Setyowati Luluk
Published: December 2024

Sastra merupakan karya luhur yang perlu dilestarikan demi keberlangsungan nilai nilai yang diajarkan kepada generasi penerus. Pelestarian dapat dilakukan dengan memahami dan memperlajari nilai yang terkandung dalam sastra itu sendiri. Mantra gawai Dayak merupakan mantra yang penuh dengan nilai luhur bagi generasi dan pelajaran penting bagi kehidupan. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk mendeskripsikan nilai yang terkandung dalam Mantra upacara gawai Dayak suku kantuk yang dilakukan setiap tahun,selain itu untuk mendeskripsikan peralatan apa saja yang digunakan dalam tradisi tersebut. Metode yang digunakan adalah metode kualitatif deskriptif dengan pendekatan etnografi. Metode juga menggunakan Teknik triangulasi untuk memverifikasi data. Pengambilan data dilakukan dengan wawancara, dokumentasi dan penyebaran angket. Hasil penelitian menujukkan bahwa nilai Mantra Gawai Dayak berhubungan dengan ketuhan dan nilai nilai penghargaan kepada alam serta nilai persatuan dan persamaan derajat. Peralatan yang digunakan meliputi sesjen (makanan tradisional dan minuman) dan perkakas dapur serta peralatan Bertani.
DESAIN MODEL PEMBELAJARAN DENGAN PERSPEKTIF MULTIDIMENSI PADA MATA KULIAH APRESIASI DAN KRITIK SASTRA INDONESIA
Authors: Wasilah Atika , Harahap Safinatul Hasanah , Yuhdi Achmad
Published: December 2024

Penelitian ini dilatarbelakangi oleh belum maksimalnya kemampuan mahasiswa angkatan 2022 dalam mengapresiasi dan mengkritik karya sastra Indonesia di Prodi Pendidikan Bahasa dan Sastra Indonesia Unimed. Sebagaimana diketahui bahwa apresiasi dan kritik sastra merupakan salah satu kegiatan yang melibatkan kemampuan afektif, memahami nilai-nilai, sekaligus berupaya memetakan pola dan tata nilai yang diperoleh dari karya sastra yang diapresiasi ke dalam proporsi yang sesuai dengan konteks persoalannya. Oleh karena itu diperlukan sebuah desain pembelajaran yang dapat memfasilitasi sekaligus meningkatkan kemampuan apresiasi dan kritik sastra mahasiswa. Kemampuan tersebut akan ditingkatkan melalui pembelajaran sastra dengan perspektif multidimensional. Selanjutnya, penelitian ini bertujuan untuk: 1) mengetahui proses pengembangan, dan 2) menguji kelayakan model pembelajaran perspektif multidimensional dalam pembelajaran apresiasi dan kritik sastra. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode reseacrh and development (r&d) dengan model 4-D. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian disimpulkan bahwa proses penelitian disusun dengan berdasarkan tahapan pengembangan 4D terdiri atas 4 tahap utama yaitu: define (pendefinisian), design (perancangan), develop (pengembangan) dan disseminate (penyebaran). Kelayakan model pembelajaran sastra dengan perspektif multidimensional sudah memenuhi kriteria kelayakan “sangat layak” dan keterangan catataan “tidak perlu revisi” sesuai dengan hasil penilaian validasi ahli desain model pembelajaran sebesar 91,25%. Sedangkan untuk hasil uji coba apresiasi sastra mahasisa diperoleh nilai rata-rata 75,78% dengan kategori “baik” dalam standar penilaian kemampuan apresiasi sastra. Oleh karena itu, dapat disimpulkan model pembelajaran sastra dengan perspektif multidimensional valid dan layak digunakan untuk meningkatkan kemampuan apresiasi dan kritik sastra mahasiswa Prodi Pendidikan Bahasa dan Sastra Unimed Angkatan 2022.
OPTIMALISASI KOMUNIKASI: PERAN LAGU ANAK SEBAGAI MEDIA TERAPI BAGI PENYANDANG RHOTISISME
Authors: Ashiilah Tara , Sitanggang Benni , Ardini Putri , Fajriana Retno Rezky , Ramadan Azan Alfana , Tansliova Lili , Lubis Fitriani
Published: December 2024

AbstrakPenelitian ini bertujuan mengetahui efektivitas lagu anak sebagai media terapi bagi anak-anak penyandang rhotisisme, gangguan fonologis yang mempengaruhi pengucapan bunyi “R”. Penelitian menggunakan metode eksperimen kuantitatif di Desa Binjai Bakung, Kecamatan Pantai Labu. Data dikumpulkan melalui observasi, wawancara, dan angket, dan dianalisis menggunakan uji normalitas dan paired sample t-test. Objek penelitian adalah anak-anak penyandang rhotisisme yang diberikan intervensi dengan lagu anak ciptaan dan dua lagu anak lain yang memiliki konsonan “r”. Data dari 13 anak menunjukkan perubahan signifikan dalam kemampuan berbicara. Pada pretest, nilai minimum adalah 13 dan maksimum 50, dengan rata-rata 35,37 dan standar deviasi 6,91. Setelah intervensi, nilai posttest meningkat dengan minimum 50 dan maksimum 75, rata-rata 61,15, dan standar deviasi 7,11. Observasi menunjukkan beberapa anak memiliki masalah pada alat ucap dan kegugupan saat berbicara, tetapi tidak ada yang mengidap autisme. Masalah pengucapan tidak terkait dengan bahasa sehari-hari, dan mayoritas anak tidak merasa minder berbicara di depan umum serta mampu mempertahankan percakapan. Penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa lagu anak yang kaya akan konsonan “R” efektif sebagai stimulus untuk meningkatkan keterampilan pengucapan dan kepercayaan diri anak-anak penyandang rhotisisme. Kata kunci: Komunikasi, Lagu Anak, Rhotisisme, Treatment   AbstractThis study aims to determine the effectiveness of children’s songs as a therapeutic medium for children with rhotisism, a phonological disorder that affects the pronunciation of the “R” sound. The research used a quantitative experimental method in Binjai Bakung Village, Pantai Labu District. Data were collected through observation, interview, and questionnaire, and analyzed using normality test and paired sample t-test. The object of the research was children with racism who were given an intervention with a children’s song created by them and two other children’s songs that have the consonant “r”. Data from 13 children showed significant changes in speaking ability. In the pretest, the minimum score was 13 and the maximum was 50, with a mean of 35.37 and a standard deviation of 6.91. After the intervention, posttest scores increased with a minimum of 50 and a maximum of 75, a mean of 61.15, and a standard deviation of 7.11. Observations showed that some children had speech problems and nervousness when speaking, but none had autism. Pronunciation problems were not related to colloquial language, and the majority of children did not feel inferior speaking in public and were able to sustain conversations. This study shows that children’s songs rich in “R” consonants are effective as a stimulus to improve the pronunciation skills and self-confidence of children with rhotisism. Keywords: Communication, Children’s Songs, Rhoticism, Treatment
Egyéni panaszzsoltárok jelentősége az istentiszteleti gyakorlatban
Authors: KOVÁCS Enikő Hajnalka
Published: December 2024

The Importance of Individual Lament Psalms in Worship Practice
The theological significance of individual lament songs lies primarily in their giving voice to suffering. Despite the complaint, the sufferer does not turn away from God since the centre of human existence is God. Suffering does not rule out the connection with God but rather confirms it. The lament has by now lost its original meaning and has received a negative report, as in the eyes of today’s humanity complaint is an expression of unbelief and a distrustful attitude. This aspect, the importance of lament songs, has been ignored by scholars until now. However, the predominance of lament songs in the Book of Psalms means that the issue of complaint is not something marginal or unusual but an important element of faith. One of the most important characteristics of this genre is the sudden change of mood, when the complaint unexpectedly turns into praise. This poetic form involves the transition from hopelessness to joy, for the form not only contains a description of the problem but also the solution to it as well. In a world that has become desensitized, it is important to use these psalms.
Nemeshegyi Péter SJ mint a Szentírás magyarázója
Authors: PECSUK Ottó
Published: December 2024

Péter Nemeshegyi SJ Interpreter of the Scripture
The one hundredth birthday of Péter Nemeshegyi SJ was celebrated with a conference by members of the Hungarian Jesuit order on 25 March 2023. On this occasion, I was asked to appraise this excellent theologian as the interpreter of the Bible. One of Father Nemeshegyi’s most important foreign mission assignments during the decades he spent in Japan was his work in the Japanese ecumenical Bible translation. His experience and impressions during this work provide encouragement and guidance to those involved in a similar enterprise in Hungary. Péter Nemeshegyi was a true Catholic interpreter of the Bible, who believed that the Biblical tradition of the church brings parts of the Holy Scriptures that seem contradictory or difficult to a higher level of synthesis. His favourite hermeneutical starting point was the assumption of God’s goodness in every interpretation of the Scriptures, as well as the Christological principle, which he may have adopted from St Augustine. He taught about the Bible very effectively and creatively in various cultural environments (such as Japan or other East Asian countries) because he always found the fitting inculturation aspects of the Gospel and used them in both his teaching and application.
A homiletika oktatás kezdetei a pesti teológián, Székács József kéziratainak tükrében
Authors: SZETEY Szabolcs
Published: December 2024

The Beginning of Homiletics Education at the Theology in Pest, in the Light of the Manuscripts of József Székács
The Faculty of Theology in Pest opened its doors in 1855. The institution cooperated with the Lutheran Church in the first ten years. During this time, future Lutheran Bishop József Székács led the studies of homiletics. This data can be found in the Ráday Archives with the list of professors and popular study books they used. We also discovered the fact from the timetables that Székács taught homiletics practice to four different grades at the same time, usually at his parish.
We can find Székács’s heritage in the National Lutheran Archives, such as his letters, notes, sermons, and so on. I carried out research on his homiletics manuscripts, from which I would like to highlight his memo titled A gyakorlati homiletika alapja 1858/9 [The Journal of Practical Homiletics 1858/9]. The memo includes recommendations for his students about preaching preparations for Christmas, Good Friday, and Easter. Székács’s work is particularly pragmatic, and therefore it successfully guides the pastor students through the steps of preparing a good sermon.
Pastoral Aspects of the Occasional Services
Authors: KIRÁLY Lajos
Published: December 2024

This study examines the casualias as central to the ministry of the church from the perspective of pastoral care. At the root of the casualias is ritual, which, according to Emile Durkheim, has as its true function the strengthening and maintenance of group cohesion and solidarity, the expression of unity, the weaving of bonds between the individual and society. Pastoral psychology studies of casualias have shown that they play an important role in the community and relational experience, as communication and correlation take place between the transcendent and the human, between man and man: the individual is strengthened and experiences the welcoming, supportive, and helping presence of the community. The individual is no longer alone with his or her problems and difficulties, as he or she has a burden-relieving experience of being in contact with the community. This connection is not only embodied in words but also brought to life through non-verbal moments and ancient symbols. I will point out that providing help, according to pastoral psychology, is a communal task, which is why rituals and casualias have therapeutic and pastoral care potential.
A barátságkaraván jelensége és jelentősége az életben
Authors: SIBA Balázs
Published: December 2024

The Phenomenon of the Caravan of Friendship and Its Importance in Life
In this academic essay, I invite the reader to think about our human relationships, our friendships: who are the supporters and allies in our lives? How are friendships born and why do they fade away? What do we need to strengthen our friendships and to become people who are seen as supporters by others? The way we make friends throughout our lives depends on our personality, our gender, our age, and our socio-cultural environment. Our network of relationships needs to include family, friends, home, and work. Our network of friends may also change from time to time, for example, when we move to a new place or change jobs. As the distances between connections increase, so do the number of people with whom we can no longer have deeper relationships.
In this paper, we look at the basic dynamics of relationships and how friendship patterns change with age. The paper concludes with a brief theological reflection on friendship.
Mi van a megtérésen túl? I. rész: A lelki formálódás teológiai alapjai
Authors: SZABÓNÉ LÁSZLÓ Lilla
Published: December 2024

What is beyond conversion? Part I. The theological foundations of spiritual formation
Both the soullessness of our times, the spiritual overheating, and the unfolding pragmatism in the field of spiritual life call for practical theology to reflect on the field of spiritual formation. In our Church, in our congregations, evangelization, the call to conversion, is still at the heart of the matter. Little is said about what is or what should be after conversion? In this paper, we will reflect theologically on the subject of spiritual formation. We will examine the ordo salutis discussed in classical dogmatics, and within it the interpretations of justification, conversion, and regeneration. Finally, we will explore the theme of sanctification, what is the responsibility of man in the process of spiritual formation according to the Reformed theological approach.
Lelkigondozás és pasztorálpszichológia – átfedések és különbségek
Authors: NÉMETH Dávid
Published: December 2024

Pastoral Care and Pastoral Psychology – Overlaps and Differences
Pastoral psychology suffers from a chronic identity crisis. It wants to be a theological science while at the same time meeting the criteria for the scientific practice of psychology. Is there a way to maintain this dual identity? Only if we assume that beliefs play an enormous role in understanding and modifying human experience and behaviour. Beliefs are assumptions about the meaning of reality. They have both psychological and theological aspects. Pastoral psychology examines how psychological explanations can be linked to the insights of the Christian faith in understanding and modifying the processes of interpreting reality. For pastoral care, it develops approaches and offers methods for helping people from the perspective of the Christian faith to evaluate themselves realistically, to shape their social relationships positively, and to relate constructively to events that affect their lives.
Erőszakmentes kommunikáció és az erőszak terei – Kiselőadás
Authors: KIS Klára
Published: December 2024

Spaces of Violence and Communication – Workshop
Theories that seek to explain the phenomenon of violence call forth hope: perhaps violence will be eradicated one day and life will be more liveable and beautiful on this planet. But violence is an accessible and therefore very attractive position of action for all, and we no longer consider it an “occupational accident” or an “extreme case”. Anyone who wants to know what is going on when people become violent towards each other, they need to find answers to the question why people cross even strong boundaries to hurt or kill others. Why is it so hard to stop any kind of war despite the terrible consequences? What does it mean to live in “spaces of violence” (Jörg Baberowski), and what role does communication play in their formation and maintenance?
A lelkészi munkavégzés határkérdései – Kiselőadás
Authors: MAKKAI László
Published: December 2024

Boundary Issues of Pastoral Work – Workshop
In this work, I discuss the boundary issues of pastoral work. I am convinced that the competence of priests/pastors is limited to a certain level. We must be able to recognize our limits and at the same time experience the process of development.
There are two sides of the personal well-being of pastors. One is the existence of ideal pastoral accompaniment competencies, which means meeting the criteria of a mature professional personality. Another point is to see through the illusion of perfection to form a realistic image of what a “good enough” pastor can be like. The way to do this is if the studies, practical experiences, and experiences that enrich the personality grow into the pastor’s work, constantly keeping in mind that by accepting the help and guidance of others, if necessary, he is able to turn his own shortcomings and weaknesses into resources.
Analysis of performance for the various types of controllers used in the Automatic Voltage Regulator System (AVR)
Authors: Mahal Ali
Published: December 2024

The paper will present a performance analysis of various types of controllers used in the Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) system. The AVR is a crucial component of power systems, responsible for regulating the voltage levels of generators to ensure a stable and reliable power supply. Different types of controllers, such as proportional integral derivative (PID), Z-N tuning, and LQR controllers, are evaluated and compared based on their performance metrics, including setting time, overshoot, and steady state error. Simulation findings show that each controller has its own strengths and weaknesses in terms of regulating voltage. Moreover, the selection of a controller is contingent upon the particular needs as well as the features of the power system. This analysis can provide valuable insights for engineers and researchers in selecting and designing appropriate controllers for AVR systems.
Detention and Release in Stepped Gabion Weir: Case of Four Steps
Authors: Al-Fawzy Ali
Published: December 2024

The problem of water scarcity can be noticed clearly in the lined canals which provide the irrigation networks. Using porous structures like gabion weirs contributes as a part solution to this problem. In the current study, a laboratory flume was used to calculate the water depths upstream and downstream of the stepped gabion weir that is to be put inside it at a certain distance, and this flume comes with dimensions of 10 m long by 0.30 m wide and 0.50 m height. While the tested hydraulic model of the weir was built with dimensions of 0.30 m width by 0.40 m maximum height, and five lengths with different total distance of 0.88, 0.96, 1.08, 1.12, and 1.20 m respectively. The used gravel samples to fill the gabions were of monosize query gravel with diameters ranging between 0.0095-0.0140, 0.0140-0.0190, 0.0190-0.0250, 0.0250-0.0375, and 0.0375-0.0500 m in a respective way. While the values of discharge, measured during the experiments were in the range of 0.0007-0.0150 m3/s, and a total of 175 trial tests. This study achieved that the detention depth value decreases by increasing the diameter of the gravel sample used, but there is no effect of the gravel sample on the value of release depth, the different illustrated formulas for the detention and release depths maybe can be used usefully for design and scheduling actions in the field where it gave a reasonable matching between the measured and the calculated values of the studied depths, and finally, the errors percentage in an average value for both detention and release tested values were 5.278% and -0.265% respectively
Localizing the Urban Transect Theory as a Regulating Tool for the Urban Design of Duhok City to Enhance Sustainability
Authors: Hussein Hanan
Published: December 2024

Recently, the urban districts of Duhok City have undergone a rapid expansion, extending into the suburbs and surrounding villages, resulting in significant transformations to their urban form. However, conventional land-use planning fails to address local contextual challenges, including low-quality built environments. Therefore, this study claims that the existing urban-related symptoms of unsustainability in Duhok City can be approached through the theory of Urban Transect. The Urban Transect approach is a novel land use classification structure that focuses on increasing urban-natural environment integrity and enhancing neighborhood characteristics. Derived from environmental studies, this theory has recently gained traction in urban planning and design as an alternative to conventional zoning for multiple purposes. It’s an analytical and regulatory tool that reduces uncontrolled sprawl, improves neighborhood performance, and balances natural and built environments for smart and sustainable development. This research explores how the Urban Transect theory can be adapted and applied to Duhok City's physical characteristics. In addition to proposing a localized Urban Transect Matrix, it demonstrates the potential advantages of incorporating the adapted Urban Transect theory into the planning and design process through an analysis of the city's current urban design practices. It intends to provide urban planners, policymakers, and designers involved in shaping the future of Duhok City with valuable understandings and recommendations that could foster sustainable development, improve the quality of life, and optimize the physical environment.
Antibacterial Activity of Oscillatoria princips and Chroococcus Turgidus Against Some Pathogenic Bacteria
Authors: Toma Janan
Published: December 2024

Resistance to antimicrobials poses a severe global threat of growing concern to human, animal, and environmental health. This is because of the development, spread, and persistence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria, as well as the side effects of medicines on human health. We decided to conduct this study by using algae extracts as an antibacterial because it is safe for the environment and human health and has no adverse effects on the environment. The antibacterial activity of different solvents of the algae Oscillatoria princips and Chroococcus turgidus isolated from Shaqlawa District within Erbil Governorate, Iraq, was tested against Streptococcus pneumonia, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli, utilizing four polar and non-polar solvents. Diethylether and hexane from algae extract were more efficient against four pathogens, especially S. aureus and S. pneumonia. They showed minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) at (10 and 15 mg/ml) while the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for bacteria P. aeruginosa and E. coli (25 and 30 mg/ml).Methanolic extracts inhibited bacterial growth. However at a higher concentration (30 to 40 mg/ml), aqueous extracts showed less efficiency than other solvents. The antibacterial activity of algal extracts is more effective in inhibiting the growth of Gram-positive bacteria compared to Gram-negative bacteria. Many bioactive compounds were observed in the algae extract through examination by GC-MS instruments.
Exogenous Silicon and Pseudomonas fluorescens Alleviate Meloidogyne javanica Stress in Tomato Plants
Authors: Noorabadi Maryam Tavakol , Alizadeh Mehrdad , Sahebani Navazollah , Xu Biao
Published: December 2024

In this study, the biological control effects of the Pseudomonas fluorescens strain CHA0 were compared to those of silicon (Si), used as a chemical control agent, against Meloidogyne javanica, the causative agent of root-knot disease in tomato plants. Indicators such as the number of M. javanica galls, eggs, egg masses, and the enzymatic activities of peroxidase (POX) and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) were analysed. Results showed a significant reduction in the numbers of galls, eggs, and egg masses produced by M. javanica on tomato plants treated with P. fluorescens CHA0 (applied as a soil additive) as well as with Si (applied as a root and foliar treatment). The enzymatic activities peaked on the fifth day post-inoculation with M. javanica and then gradually declined. The greatest increase in enzymatic activities was observed in the combined treatment with M. javanica, P. fluorescens CHA0, and Si (the N+B+SiO2 treatment). The use of P. fluorescens CHA0 and Si enhanced the defence-related enzyme activity in tomato plants against M. javanica. However, high concentrations of Si were shown to inhibit the growth of P. fluorescens CHA0.
Co-application of biochar and organic fertiliser for improved productivity of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) in the humid tropics
Authors: Oyelade Abiodun David , Olowe Victor Idowu Olugbemiga , Fabunmi Thomas Oladeji , Adejuyigbe Christopher Olu
Published: December 2024

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) grain yield has recently declined partly because of the limited use of organic nutrient sources on degraded tropical soils. The study assessed the agronomic performance of three sesame varieties (V) as affected by organic nutrient sources (T) application. The two factors were arranged in a split-plot with V (White Benue, Cameroun White, and E-8) as the main plot and T (T1: Control, T2: biochar at 2.5 t / ha, T3: biochar at 5.0 t / ha, T4: organic fertiliser at 5.0 t / ha, T5: organic fertiliser + biochar at 2.5 t / ha and T6: organic fertiliser + biochar 5.0 t / ha) as the subplot in a Randomised Complete Block Design and replicated three times. Data were collected on agronomic traits of sesame. The varieties were significantly (p < 0.05) different in number of days to flowering, capsule formation, and physiological maturity in 2020. Varietal and organic nutrient source effects were significant (p < 0.05) for height at flowering and harvest in both years. Factor T (T4 – T6) significantly (p < 0.05) increased capsule and seed weight per plant, and grain yield in both years relative to T1. The V × T interaction was significant for height to the first capsule and seed weight per plant in 2020. Sesame grain yields recorded under T3 – T6 were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than the control (T1) in 2020 (1.2 – 1.5 t / ha) and 2021 (1.3 – 1.6 t / ha). Prospective organic sesame producers can apply organic fertiliser at 5 t / ha (T4) alone in the humid tropics.
Influence of Fill Pattern on Printing Time in 3D Printing and Material Consumption
Authors: Rădulescu Bruno , Rădulescu Mara-Cristina , Hriţuc Adelina , Păduraru Emilian , Slătineanu LaurenȚiu
Published: December 2024

3D printing has become a core technology in multiple industries, enabling the rapid creation of complex, customized, and cost-effective objects. A crucial aspect of the 3D printing process is the infill pattern, which not only influences the strength and weight of the final product but also has a significant impact on the printing time. This article explores the relationship between printing time and the different types of infill patterns used, providing a detailed analysis of the trade-offs involved between production speed and the physical characteristics of the printed objects.
Functional Requirements and Design Parameters in the Manufacturing of Damascus Steel
Authors: Surugiu Ioan , Coteaţă Margareta , Jureschi Ștefan , Slătineanu Laurenţiu
Published: December 2024

According to the information identified in some bibliographic sources, Damascus steels are obtained by hot forging some strips of steel with different carbon contents. The forging is carried out until the strips are solidified after welds of short length have partially solidified them. To obtain samples of Damascus steel, the functional requirements for the manufacturing process of such samples have been formulated. Defining the sequence of manufacturing operations of Damascus steel test samples and equipment to materialize each functional requirement was carried out using axiomatic design principles. Appropriate ways of materialization have been identified for each of the operations included in the technology of manufacturing test samples. The practical implementation of the technological operations confirmed the possibilities of manufacturing test samples from Damascus steels with the proposed technology.
Remaining Useful Life Prediction with Uncertainty Quantification Using Evidential Deep Learning
Authors: Ayed Safa Ben , Broujeny Roozbeh Sadeghian , Hamza Rachid Tahar
Published: December 2024

Predictive Maintenance presents an important and challenging task in Industry 4.0. It aims to prevent premature failures and reduce costs by avoiding unnecessary maintenance tasks. This involves estimating the Remaining Useful Life (RUL), which provides critical information for decision makers and planners of future maintenance activities. However, RUL prediction is not simple due to the imperfections in monitoring data, making effective Predictive Maintenance challenging. To address this issue, this article proposes an Evidential Deep Learning (EDL) based method to predict the RUL and to quantify both data uncertainties and prediction model uncertainties. An experimental analysis conducted on the C-MAPSS dataset of aero-engine degradation affirms that EDL based method outperforms alternative machine learning approaches. Moreover, the accompanying uncertainty quantification analysis demonstrates sound methodology and reliable results.
Portfolio Optimization with Translation of Representation for Transport Problems
Authors: Zajecka Malgorzata , Mastalerczyk Mateusz , Chong Siang Yew , Yao Xin , Kwiecien Joanna , Chmiel Wojciech , Dajda Jacek , Kisiel-Dorohinicki Marek , Byrski Aleksander
Published: December 2024

The paper presents a hybridization of two ideas closely related to metaheuristic computing, namely Portfolio Optimization (researched by Xin Yao et al.) and Translation of Representation for different metaheuristics (researched by Byrski et al.). Thus, difficult problems (discrete optimization) are approached by a sequential run through a number of steps of different metaheuristics, providing the translation of representation (since the algorithms are completely different). Therefore, close cooperation of e.g. ACO, PSO, and GA is possible. The results refer to unaltered algorithms and show the superiority of the constructed hybrid.
A Novel Method for Human Fall Detection Using Federated Learning and Interval-Valued Fuzzy Inference Systems
Authors: Pękala Barbara , Szkoła Jarosław , Grochowalski Piotr , Gil Dorota , Kosior Dawid , Dyczkowski Krzysztof
Published: December 2024

This study introduces an innovative interval-valued fuzzy inference system (IFIS) integrated with federated learning (FL) to enhance posture detection, with a particular emphasis on fall detection for the elderly. Our methodology significantly advances the accuracy of fall detection systems by addressing key challenges in existing technologies, such as false alarms and data privacy concerns. Through the implementation of FL, our model evolves collaboratively over time while maintaining the confidentiality of individual data, thereby safeguarding user privacy. The application of interval-valued fuzzy sets to manage uncertainty effectively captures the subtle variations in human behavior, leading to a reduction in false positives and an overall increase in system reliability. Furthermore, the rule-based system is thoroughly explained, highlighting its correlation with system performance and the management of data uncertainty, which is crucial in many medical contexts. This research offers a scalable, more accurate, and privacy-preserving solution that holds significant potential for widespread adoption in healthcare and assisted living settings. The impact of our system is substantial, promising to reduce the incidence of fall-related injuries among the elderly, thereby enhancing the standard of care and quality of life. Additionally, our findings pave the way for future advancements in the application of federated learning and fuzzy inference in various fields where privacy and precision in uncertain environments are of paramount importance.
Factors Influencing Sponsorship vs Partnership Agreements for the International Olympic Committee
Authors: Ojuawo Olajide , Šimkus Audrius
Published: December 2024

The aim of this paper is to propose research-based insights on factors behind an international sports governing body, the International Olympic Committee (IOC), forming a sponsorship agreement or partnership agreement with a prospective company. The problem to be solved is addressed as: what factors influence the IOC when concluding a sponsorship agreement versus a partnership agreement?

The theoretical part of this paper defines the concepts of governing bodies, commercial agreements and the objectives of the relevant stakeholders in the process of conducting commercial agreements. It also reviews the theories and elements of the specific types of commercial agreements: sponsorship agreements and partnership agreements. The field analysis part of the paper reviews the relevant research that has previously been conducted in this area for the IOC. The conclusion of the paper highlights the key elements of a sponsorship and partnership agreement from the perspective of an international sports governing body, and lists which are the driving factors for each agreement.
Systematic Literature Review of Corporate Sustainability and Financial Performance Linkages
Authors: Veera Suchitra , Bietsch Samantha , Jones Susan , Ward Paul
Published: December 2024

This study analyzes the linkages between corporate sustainability and financial performance of companies by conducting a systematic review of prior literature. The findings provide insights on the relationship between sustainable practices and companies’ financial outcomes.
Effects of invasive alien plants and habitat structure on bird assemblages in a unique lowland forest in eastern Nepal
Authors: Bhattarai Binod , Adhikari Dipendra , Adhikari Jagan Nath , Bhattarai Bishnu Prasad
Published: December 2024

Invasive alien species play a major role in biodiversity decline. We studied the impacts of invasive alien plant species (IAPS) on bird assemblages and their habitats in Jalthal Forest, a biogeographically unique lowland remnant forest in eastern Nepal. We surveyed birds by point counts and quantified environmental variables at 89 sites. Observations of 1,373 individuals of 86 species showed that species richness was the highest in wooded grasslands and floodplains and lowest in sal forests invaded by IAPS, whereas abundance was highest in IAPS-invaded forests. Abundance and richness decreased with increasing cover of IAPS, shrub cover and distance to water. The abundance and richness of every feeding guild except omnivores were negatively correlated with IAPS cover. Our results increase our understanding of the impacts of IAPS on birds and clearly indicate the need of controlling IAPS in Jalthal Forest, and thus, are valuable for forest management and biodiversity conservation.
Diurnal raptors of Eastern Himalayan foothills: Taxonomic and functional diversity attributes
Authors: Mahananda Pranjal , Saikia Malabika Kakati , Sarma Kuladip , Saikia Prasanta Kumar , Saikia Bhrigu Prasad , Chetry Vivek
Published: December 2024

Raptors are crucial indicators of ecosystem health, and thus, requires research attention. Despite an upsurge in Indian ornithology, raptors remain poorly studied, particularly in Northeast India. Here, we measured the taxonomic and functional diversity of raptors in Manas National Park, Assam. The study was conducted between 2018–2022. We surveyed 39 standard transects and recorded 776 individuals of raptors belonging to 30 species in different habitats: forest, open and mosaic. The taxonomic alpha diversity was highest in mosaic habitat and lowest in the forest habitat. Crested Serpent Eagle (Spilornis cheela) was the most abundant raptor in open and forest habitats, while Collared Falconet (Microhierax caerulescens) was dominating in mosaic habitats. Of the recorded raptor species, 66.67% were classified as residents, and 33.37% were winter migrants. We also measured the functional alpha diversity of raptors using the data collected from AVONET database. We used ten functional traits and evaluated the functional alpha diversity indices. The functional richness was the highest in open habitats and functional divergence was the highest in mosaic habitats, also functional evenness was the highest in open habitats and lowest in mosaic habitats. We suggest intensified research on raptors in the region, to identify and address critical research question which facilitates the conservation of these apex predators.
Species composition, diversity and foraging guilds of avifauna in two freshwater lakes of Mysore district, Karnataka, India
Authors: Abhilash Hebbal Rajendra , Sathish Shivannagala Veeranna , Siddaramaiah Basappa
Published: December 2024

We conducted the present study in two freshwater lakes in the Mysore district of Karnataka, India, from December 2023 to May 2024, with the aim of evaluating the diversity, relative abundance, and feeding guilds of avifauna in Giribetta and Hadinaru lakes. The “point count” method was used to evaluate the species composition of birds. A total of 5,790 individuals, representing 106 species from 18 orders and 48 families, were recorded. Four species were in the near-threatened category: Painted Stork (Mycteria leucocephala), Black-headed Ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus), Oriental Darter (Anhinga melanogaster), and Spot-billed Pelican (Pelecanus philippensis), while the others were of least concern. In terms of species richness, Giribetta Lake had 87 species belonging to 18 orders and 42 families, as compared to Hadinaru Lake, which had 86 species from 16 orders and 40 families. The two areas had similar species composition, with a Sorenson index of 76.3% and a Jaccard index of 61.7%, which indicates that the species diversity is fairly similar across the habitats. Based on the diet and foraging habitat, the recorded bird species were classified into eight major feeding guilds, which revealed a higher abundance of carnivorous and insectivorous birds, followed by omnivorous, granivorous, frugivorous, nectarivorous, herbivorous, and mixed guild types. It is expected that this study will provide a preliminary database for the waterbirds of this area, useful for further research and assessment.
A preliminary study on avifaunal diversity of Tehsil Karsog in Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Sharma Yanjan Kumar , Kumar Gaurav , Sharma Gauri , Negi Rakesh Kumar
Published: December 2024

The avifaunal diversity assessment is a valuable ecological tool, providing a significant measure for assessing the quality and quantity of various habitats. Karsog is located in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, India, in the Pir Panjal Himalayan range. Avifaunal study was conducted on a monthly basis in the Tehsil Karsog from December 2023 to June 2024. The study revealed the presence of 91 bird species, spanning over 63 genera, 38 families, 12 orders. The Order Passeriformes was the most diverse with 64 species, while Bucerotiformes and Strigiformes were represented by one species each. The Muscicapidae, with 12 species, was the dominant family in the study area. Analysis of data on relative abundance showed that of the 91 species recorded, 23 species (25.27%) were very common, 27 species (29.67%) were common, 26 species (28.57%) were uncommon, and 15 species (16.48%) were rare. Among the documented avifauna, 2 species, the Alexandrine Parakeet and the Himalayan Griffon are Near Threatened species as categorized by the IUCN Red List (2024). Assessment of data on feeding guild shows that, out of 91 species, 2 species (2.19%) are granivores, 3 species (3.29%) are carnivores, 11 species (12.08%) are omnivores, 17 species (18.68%) are insectivores and 58 species (63.73%) have varied type of feeding habits. It shows that 22 species (24.17%) have a narrow feeding guild meaning that they rely on limited type of food resources. Further analysis of data on the population status reveals that 17 species (18.68%) have declining population trend as per the IUCN global population trend assessment. This emphasizes the importance of implementing conservation strategies in the area under investigation.
The global population status and distribution of the Indian Swiftlet: Implications for Conservation
Authors: Kawalkar Dhanusha , Manchi Shirish S. , Quadros Goldin
Published: December 2024

The current study aims to comprehend the population status and distribution of the Indian Swiftlet (Aerodramus unicolor, family: Apodidae) using primary and secondary data. We acquired the population data from the secondary literature and presence data from open source (GBIF.org). We conducted surveys to document the breeding and foraging locations of the species in the Western Ghats, West Coast and Offshore islands of Maharashtra. After estimating the population, we used the presence data to create a model predicting species distribution in current and future scenarios. The Indian Swiftlet’s current distribution is from Southwest Maharashtra to Kerala and Sri Lanka. In future, the changing climate might restrict it to the southern Western Ghats and some pockets in Sri Lanka. Burnt Island, home to the largest known colony, deserves conservation attention. We recommend population surveys and immediate conservation efforts to ensure the survival of the Indian Swiftlet endemic to India and Sri Lanka.
Migration and wintering of the Mistle Thrush (Turdus viscivorus) in SE Hungary
Authors: Bozó László
Published: December 2024

The migration and wintering of the Mistle Thrush (Turdus viscivorus) is the least known of the other common nesting thrushes in Europe. It is also an understudied species in Hungary, detailed studies having been carried out nearly 50 years ago. The aim of the present study was to summarise the data on migration and wintering of this species that have been collected over the last 20 years in Kevermes, southeastern Hungary. There is no breeding population of the species either here or in the surrounding area. The species was observed on 371 of the 2,807 days of field observations. The first individuals typically arrived in the second week of October, but there are also data from late September and early October. Its migration is characterized by several peaks. In spring, it was still migrating intensively in the first half of April, with the last individuals leaving the area by the end of the month. In recent years, they have appeared earlier in the autumn and left later in the spring, which may coincide with the increasing breeding population of the species in Hungary. The number of individuals observed was higher in spring than in autumn and winter, similar to the situation in other parts of the country. The number of birds was high every second or third year. The number of observations in the same seasons of different years showed different patterns as well as the autumn observations did not allow any conclusions to be drawn about the number of observations later in winter and spring. The most important food was the common hackberry (Celtis occidentalis), which was protected against the Fieldfares (T. pilaris). Comparing the two species, the migratory patterns were basically similar, but the seasonal abundance of the two species differed in certain years.
Far from the Palaearctic realm: First breeding record of the Blue-cheeked Bee-eater Merops persicus in Peninsular India with notes on its breeding ecology
Authors: Kishore Rathinavel , Anand Shibu , Vinod Sadhasivan , Ajil Yesudhas
Published: December 2024

The first breeding site of Blue-cheeked Bee-eater (Merops persicus) in Peninsular India was observed in the Andivillai saltpans of Kanniyakumari district, Tamil Nadu. We found a total of 28 breeding burrows distributed into three subsets in the stretch of 30 m. Among 28 nests, 16 were active and 12 were inactive/unused. The active nest-tunnels have a mean tunnel length of 1.53±0.53 m and nest-mouth diameter of 9.93±1.48 cm. While the females excavated tunnels and started brooding males were guarding the colony. The male very often fed the female brooding inside the nest till the hatchlings appeared, and later both parents were observed feeding their chicks during the day. The chicks were first observed peeping out of the tunnels on 22 August 2023. At the end of September few juvenile birds were seen flying along with the adults foraging in the open sky. The Blue-cheeked Bee-eater is considered a passage migrant and winter visitor to the northwestern part of India and vagrant in Southern India, but this study confirmed its breeding in Southern India. Additionally, the study provides baseline information on the breeding ecology of the species in India.
Autumn diet of Little Owls (Athene noctua) in southern Tunisia
Authors: Saada Intissar , Hammouda Abdessalem , Romanowski Jerzy , Selmi Slaheddine
Published: December 2024

The Little Owl (Athene noctua) is a widespread nocturnal raptor whose diet has extensively been studied. In the Mediterranean, a tendency towards increased ingestion of insects has been highlighted, but this tendency still needs more empirical validation. Here, we provide data on the autumn diet of Little Owls in an arid area in southern Tunisia. We analyzed 621 pellets from 30 different territories and identified 4,267 prey items, with insects being by far the most ingested prey. However, based on biomass, the diet was more evenly distributed across the identified prey categories. Vertebrates accounted for 63% of the biomass ingested, while the remaining part of prey composition was almost equally shared between insects and arachnids. The importance of arachnids looks like a characteristic dietary trait of Little Owls in south Mediterranean deserts, where arachnids represent a main component of the community of potential prey. In summary, our findings highlight the great food opportunism of the Little Owl due to its capability of adapting its diet to the availability of potential prey.
Chewing lice (Phtiraptera) on the Bonelli's Eagle Aquila fasciata in the Iberian Peninsula (Spain)
Authors: Talabante Carlos , Bernal Iván , Moraleda Virginia , Iglesias-Lebrija Juan José , Torrijos Marta , Álvarez Ernesto
Published: December 2024

Bonelli's Eagle is an endangered species with little information on its ectoparasites. We studied their chewing lice (Phthiraptera: Amblycera, Ischnocera) infestations by visually searching the plumage of 64 wild and captive specimens. Three different species were identified: Degeeriella sp., Colpocephalum impressum and Laemobothrion maximum. This is the first case of Laemobothrion maximum on Bonelli's Eagle described. We also observe its haematophagous behavior. Due to the low prevalence of infestations, no alterations in the host health are described.
First documented case of albinism in the African Chaffinch (Fringilla spodiogenys) in Algeria
Authors: Mairif Mohamed , Benzohra Nadjib
Published: December 2024

In the wild, it is rare and difficult to see birds with plumage colour abnormalities. In Algeria, despite its vast surface area, sightings of birds with colour aberrations are very rare. The present note concerns the observation of an African Chaffinch albino on 04-10-2022, in Mont Zaccar, Ain Defla (North-West Algeria).In this note, we refer to a bird that has never been observed to be affected by this colour anomaly in this species.