bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the causal link between FDI inflows and domestic interest rate in Nigeria
Authors: Nzeh Innocent Chile , Osuagwu Chizoma Olivia , Oparaojiaku Obiageli Joy , Ikechi Chibundu Emeka
Published: December 2024

Investigating the relationship between domestic interest rate and inflows from foreign direct investment (FDI) in a country is paramount for policy formulation. While a preponderance of extant literature has evaluated the impact of interest rate on the penetration of FDI owing to existing theories that support such link, studies that focus on the role of FDI inflows in influencing domestic interest rate is scanty. Dearth of studies in this area limits an understanding of the actual link between the two variables. This study therefore adds to the existing literature by verifying both theoretical and conceptual views concerning how FDI inflows and domestic interest rate are related in Nigeria. In addressing the identified gap in knowledge, the study used the vector error correction model (VECM)Granger causality with annual series which covered the period from 1981 to 2022. Finding indicates a bi-directional causality existing between domestic interest rate and FDI inflows. The paper thus concludes that much as domestic interest rate influenced FDI inflows (supporting the theoretical postulations), a reverse causality running from FDI inflows to domestic interest rate was equally revealed to exist. The study thus recommends that instead of manipulating the monetary policy instruments to attract FDI and as well handle the consequences accompanying its massive penetration, efforts should be directed at providing institutional reforms and upgrading the infrastructure in the country.
Nursing education: Flipped classroom with films in remote learning during COVID-19 pandemic-the experience of a university in Taiwan
Authors: Tang Jing-Shia , Wang Mei-Chin , Chen Chien-Liang
Published: December 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has shifted education from traditional in-person classes to remote, online-dependent learning, often resulting in reduced learning effectiveness and satisfaction due to limited face-to-face interaction. To address these challenges, interactive teaching strategies, such as the flipped classroom approach, have gained attention. The flipped classroom model emphasizes individual preparation outside class and collaborative learning during class time, relying heavily on in-person interactions. To adapt this method to remote learning, the Remote Flipped Classroom (RFC) integrates the flipped classroom approach with online learning, allowing flexibility while maintaining interactive opportunities. RFC has incorporated short films as teaching tools, leveraging their ability to contextualize knowledge and cater to the preferences of visually-driven younger learners. However, research on the effectiveness of RFC with films remains limited, particularly in fields like nursing education, where practical engagement is crucial. This article shares the practical experience of applying RFC with films in a nursing education context. Positive feedback was observed, though many students still expressed a preference for in-person classes. These insights suggest that strategies like RFC with films could be valuable in maintaining engagement and learning efficiency in remote classrooms.
Assessment of mangrove cover and biomass with remote sensing technologies to conserve Gulf of Khambhat, Gujarat, India
Authors: Chaube Nilima R. , Jain Yashraj , Mahajan Seema
Published: December 2024

Natural resource conservation is vital for maintaining ecosystems that support biodiversity, regulate climate, and provide essential resources for human well-being. As ecosystems face growing pressures from deforestation, pollution, and climate change, remote sensing has become a key tool for monitoring and protecting these environments. Through satellite imagery, LiDAR, and aerial photography, remote sensing offers detailed insights into land cover changes, habitat degradation, and forest health, enabling data-driven conservation strategies. Mangroves play a crucial role in natural resource conservation by protecting coastlines from erosion, reducing the impacts of storms, and providing habitat for diverse marine species. They also act as significant carbon sinks, helping to mitigate climate change while supporting fisheries and local livelihoods. Specifically, for mangroves, remote sensing plays a critical role in assessing ecosystem health, species composition, and disturbances like illegal logging and coastal erosion, supporting effective conservation and restoration efforts to ensure their sustainability. The study of mangroves in the Gulf of Khambhat, Gujarat, emphasizes the critical role of mangrove ecosystems in biodiversity conservation, coastal protection. Leveraging remote sensing techniques such as microwave (ALOS PALSAR-2-L band with 25 m resolution) and optical (multi-spectral) (Sentinel-2 MSI with 10m resolution), the research integrates the mangrove and non-mangrove delineation, change detection to offer insights into natural resource conservation of mangroves and Above Ground Biomass (AGB) estimation. In this study the area of mangroves obtained is 94.94 km2 from L-band SAR data (25 m resolution and 2020), 98.55 km2 from Optical data (10m resolution and 2020) while the Forest Survey of India Report (2021) illustrate 101.53 km2 mangrove area at Gulf of Khambhat, India. The accuracy of the area of mangroves obtained from remote sensing is 93.50 % from L-band SAR) and 97.06 % from Optical data (Sentinel-2 MSI) with respect to area reported in Forest Survey of India Report (2021). These results are crucial for loss and recovery monitoring of mangrove forest, to enable targeted conservation efforts. This study offers a comprehensive approach to conserving natural resources by enhancing the accuracy of biomass mapping and ecosystem monitoring, ensuring effective conservation strategies for the biodiversity-rich mangrove regions of the Gulf of Khambhat.
Investigation of the Occurrence of Intensive Seismic Activity at the “Polkowice-Sieroszowice” Copper Ore Mine, Poland
Authors: Nguyen Phu Minh Vuong , Litwa Piotr , Makówka Janusz , Szczerbiński Krzysztof , Phan Van Viet
Published: December 2024

A series of intense seismic activities were unusually reported during the initial stage of room and pillar mining operations at the “Polkowice-Sieroszowice” copper ore mine, in Poland. In fact, high-energy tremors with energy of up to 107 J were observed in many mining fields from the beginning of the mining operation to the moment before reaching the critical space of the caved zone (goaf). Some of these tremors caused floor heave, sidewall squeezing, and spalling of the roof and sidewalls in the workings, leading to the stoppage of mining operations. This paper aims to identify the possible causes of these unexpected tremors. For this purpose, the geo-mining conditions and seismic activity data from the studied mining fields were reviewed and analysed. Additionally, a numerical analysis of rock mass behaviour was conducted, considering various geomechanical factors to better understand the mechanisms of seismic activity in these fields. All numerical calculations were performed using the finite difference method (FDM) code, FLAC3D. Based on the findings, the major causes of the high-energy tremors were determined as high primary stress, high-strength roof rocks, and the presence of a thick salt layer in the roof rocks. Consequently, practical recommendations for future mining operations were suggested to mitigate the impact of intense seismic activity. This research is expected to provide a valuable reference for copper mines prone to tremors and rockbursts, not only in Poland but worldwide.
Determination and Analysis of Methane Emission Factor for Open-Pit Lignite Mines
Authors: Karbownik Marcin , Koptoń Henryk , Hildebrandt Robert
Published: December 2024

Atmospheric methane emissions from the energy sector, particularly coal mines, are a component of total global methane emissions. Its presence causes climate changes that contribute to global warming. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas (GHG) with a global warming potential (GWP) approximately 30 times greater than that of carbon dioxide over a 100-year period. The estimation of methane emissions from both underground hard coal mines and open-pit lignite mines is performed based on guidelines that follow the methods recommended in the core publications of the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). The methane emission rate determination method developed by scientific institutions is allowed. This article focuses on the analysis and formulation of guidelines for determining the potential methane emissions from open-pit lignite mines, which are determined based on the emission factor and coal production. Coalbed methane content was tested using two methods to determine the methane emission factor. Results of sorption tests were also presented. The results obtained can be used for the development of new solutions or the improvement of current solutions for the determination of the methane emission rate in open-pit lignite mines.
Mechanical Behaviour of Fracture Layer Failure in Secondary Mining Composite Roof Strata
Authors: Zhao Guozhen , Chang Fengyi , Wang Shuai
Published: December 2024

In the extremely close distance of lower coal seam mining, affected by secondary mining, the fractures expand through the layer in the composite roof, and this process is complex and diverse. In this paper, a three-point bending load test of different strength rocks and their combinations is conducted by combining acoustic emission. The results indicate that the overall deflection angle in the lower roof is approximately 8° smaller than that in the upper roof. When the fracture extends from the brittle roof to the plastic roof, the deflection angle in both types of roofs increases. When the plastic roof extends to the brittle roof, the deflection angle of the brittle roof increases while that of the plastic roof decreases. The damage degree of the composite rock mass during the failure process lies between the two single rock masses that make up the composite rock mass. The damage is dense at the initial expansion moment of the fracture in the rock mass, but weak when the interface expands through the layer. The energy evolution of the composite roof mainly depends on the high-strength roof, and the horizontal migration process of the fracture at the interface does not release energy.
Research on mixed noise removal algorithm for ore images based on fusion filtering technique
Authors: Jiang Zhi Hong , Chen Ao , Xiao Wen Cong , Huang Jin Ruo
Published: December 2024

To meet the requirements of the image processing process on image quality, as the ore image contains Gaussian noise, pepper noise, Rayleigh noise, and other kinds of mixed noise is easy to destroy the real information of the image combined with the advantages of wavelet and non-local mean filtering, a new wavelet + non-local mean (NL-means) fusion denoising algorithm is proposed. Taking the ore image with mixed noise obtained from a mine as the research object, the wavelet function is used to carry out a two-dimensional wavelet transform on the filled image, separating the high and low-frequency information, setting the threshold vector to deal with the high-frequency wavelet coefficients, inverting the transform to get the first reconstructed image, followed by the second inverse transform. Then, the second reconstructed image is subjected to NL-mean denoising to remove the complex mixed noise in the ore image to the maximum extent. The experimental results show that the noise reduction performance of the fusion denoising algorithm has a greater improvement compared with the single filter and several other fusion algorithms. The peak signal-to-noise ratio of the denoised image is 31.0181dB. The structural similarity is 0.59913, which is 15.7584dB and 0.45241, respectively, compared with that before denoising. It has an obvious effect on the removal of the mixed noise in the ore image, which provides strong technical support to improve the noise removal of the ore image.
Recovery of lithium from waste liquid of rock salt brine using aluminum hydroxide precipitation method
Authors: Mu Jiajia , Liu Yuanyuan , Guo Yu , Zhou Qin
Published: December 2024

An integrated process consisting of Li+ precipitation by Al(OH)3, roasting, water leaching, evaporation, and Li2CO3 precipitation was used to recycle Li+ from the waste liquid of rock salt brine (0.099 g/L Li+). Waste liquid from roc salt brine was discharged wastewater after NaCl crystallization and the removal of impurities in the salt manufacturing plant of the good rock salt mine. The influences of Al3+/Li+ mole ratio, Na+/Al3+ mole ratio, precipitation temperature, and time on the recovery of Li+ were investigated during Li+ precipitation by Al(OH)3 stage. The results showed that the optimal condition was Al3+/Li+ mole ratio = 2.5, Na+/Al3+ mole ratio = 2.2, precipitation temperature of 60℃ (333.15 K) for more than 20 min, whose recovery of Li+ reached 97.25%. The thermodynamic analyses of the simulated Li+–Al+–Mg2+–Cl––H2O system were conducted to construct the potential-pH (φ-pH) diagrams. The results showed that the pH value should be located in the LiCl · 2Al(OH)3 · 2H2O salt region with no formation of Mg(OH)2, which started at pH = ~6.5 and ended at pH from 10.09 to 8.55 as the temperature changed. Subsequently, the Li+precipitate was roasting for the transformation of insoluble LiCl · 2Al(OH)3 · xH2O salt to soluble LiCl, followed by the water leaching to obtain the enriched Li+ solution (1.951 g/L Li+) with Li+ recovery of 85.52%. To meet the requirement of Li2CO3 precipitation, the enriched Li+ solution was evaporated, and Na2CO3 was added to precipitate the Li2CO3 product after SO4 2–, Ca2+, and Mg2+ removal. The total recovery of Li+ was 66.69% after the experimental process, and the purity of Li2CO3 product was 99.3%, which can be regarded as industrial-grade Li2CO3. In conclusion, the success in lithium recovery using the aluminum hydroxide precipitation method provided a new perspective for preparing Li2CO3 from the waste liquid of rock salt brine, which could be considered as a newly developing lithium resource to meet the dramatically increasing demand for lithium in new energy vehicle industry.
The Problem of Embryonic Stem Cell Research
Authors: Hans Schwarz
Published: December 2024

Germany is quite restrictive regarding the importation and utilization of embryonic stem cells. To control stem cell research in Germany the Federal Government established in 2002 a Central Ethics Commission on Stem Cell Research. Stem cells are interesting for research since they are biological prototypes which can be multiplied in definitely in vitro, and which grow into many different specialized types of cells. One hopes that from embryonic stem cells, one can grow tissue which can replace diseased or destroyed tissue. There are also adult stem cells in human beings. But they do not multiply very easily, and their reprogramming is extremely difficult. Then different opinions regarding the permission of embryonic stem cell research are discussed.

How can we expect any guidance from Christian ethics concerning stem cell research? Our mandate is to further the good of our fellow human beings. But each blastocyte must develop into a human being. To answer this question, it might be good to look at nature. Nature is very generous with nascent life. Birth is the exception, death and natural abortion is the rule. Are we more protecting than nature of those embryos that are left over from in vitro fertilization? Could we not establish an analogy between the naturally discarded embryos in an unintentional abortion and the embryos not implanted by in vitro fertilization?

Can we look at nature without falling prey to a reductive naturalism? Is not humanity created in the image of God? We may conclude that humanity being created in the image of God in Gen 1:26-28 shows that a human being represents God’s rule over creation. Therefore, we must shoulder our ethical responsibility. Blastocytes are not just research material. They are not just an accidental conglomerate of cells. They are potential human beings. The generation of human embryos for research is ethically problematic and should not be advocated. Research with adult stem cells should not be abandoned in favor of the “easier” way of embryonic stem cell research. An initial temporal limit of embryonic stem cell research should be advocated until we know whether adult stem cell research is not an actual alternative. Outlawing embryonic stem cell research at this point would contradict our obligation to serve our fellow human beings.
History of Micrornas: From Gene Controlling Development of Nematodes to a Promising Tool for Molecular Therapy
Authors: Dusan Brany
Published: December 2024

MicroRNAs are short, single-stranded RNA molecules that typically consist of a 22-nucleotide sequence. Despite their small size, these molecules play an essential role in every type of human cell – regulation of gene expression on post-transcriptional level. Without this regulation, physiological functioning of cells, and thus also of complex organisms, would not be possible. Although microRNAs are extremely important, the mechanism of their function was explored and described relatively recently, in 1993, in Caenorhabditis elegans, a nematode approximately 1 millimeter in length. However, it took another seven years for miRNAs to be found and characterized in higher organisms, including humans. This discovery has increased scientific interest that continues nowadays, particularly due to the recognition that modulation of miRNA activity holds great promise as a therapeutic approach.

This article will provide a structural overview and fundamental principles of miRNA biogenesis and activity, while also tracing the brief history of miRNAs from their first discovery in the 1980s to the present. It will be mentioned how the mechanisms of miRNAs action were revealed – a discovery that won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2024. Moreover, the history of miRNA research in Slovakia and also at Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin will be presented. Finally, the main limitations that currently hinder miRNA-based therapy from clinical application will be discussed.
Leadership and Humor, the Moomin Way
Authors: Tienari Janne , Savage Paul
Published: December 2024

Drawing on an ethnographic study in the Moomin business we explore how a discourse on humor enables organizational members to enact a particular form of leadership. While the Moomin heritage and philosophy steers leadership towards supporting and caring for people and respecting their differences, the relational and contextual nature of organizational interactions renders leadership and humor subject to friction and tensions. We elucidate how humor plays out between leaders, in meetings, in supporting people, and in parties, and how humor is constantly on the edge. Our study contributes to understanding leadership as discursive practice steered by humor.
Faces of Populism in the Rhetoric of Leadership: How Conflict Talk Wears Out
Authors: Cap Piotr
Published: December 2024

The present paper employs conceptual tools of critical cognitive discourse studies (discourse space research, metaphor analysis, proximization) to explore patterns of legitimization discourse used by top Polish political parties to claim state leadership in the years 2015—2023. The first part studies the discourse of Law & Justice, a far-right conservative party ruling Poland from October 2015 to October 2023. It describes L&J’s strategies of leadership legitimization involving socio -ideological polarization, strategic generation of internal as well as external conflict, threat construction and crisis management. The second part analyzes the more moderate and cooperation oriented discourse strategies implemented by three opposition parties in the lead -up to the 2023 parliamentary elections, in which L&J finally lost power. The aim of the paper is to compare and contrast the two discourses, L&J’s and the opposition’s, to speculate about the longevity of radical populist discourses such as L&J’s. It is argued that a conflict-charged, polarized populist discourse can be an extremely powerful tool, able to grant long -term political leadership. At the same time, in a yet longer perspective, such a discourse runs a considerable risk of ‘wearing out’ and becoming vulnerable to more forward -looking and pragmatic leadership rhetoric, which presages political change.
Morphometric Indicators of High Tatra Mts. Lakes and Their Catchments to Analyse Debris Flow Dynamics (Slovakia)
Authors: Čajková Silvia , Hrivnáková Kristína , Hreško Juraj
Published: December 2024

This paper provides a quantitative assessment of debris flows, the morphometric properties of high-mountain lakes, and their catchments in the Slovak part of the High Tatra Mts. Our database comprises 29 high-mountain lakes in 11 valleys. We utilised vector models to derive some maps, and for a detailed study, we employed a digital elevation model of the study area and applied map algebra within a geographic information system environment. Using ArcGIS software, we calculated 18 morphometric parameters (such as basin orientation, topographic slope factor, basin length, basin ruggedness, etc.). This study is valuable for conducting various analyses of hydrological and morphometric characteristics of catchments. It is based on a comprehensive approach that integrates Earth remote sensing with aerial image interpretation and detailed field research of the High Tatra Mts.’ lakes. The study has shown a significant influence of morphometric parameters of catchments on the dynamics and frequency of morpho-dynamic processes.
Characteristics of The Assimilation Apparatus of Species From the Genus Picea A. Dietr. In The Conditions of Different Pollution Levels
Authors: Fedorchak Elvira
Published: December 2024

In the course of our investigations, we have found a suppressed state of assimilation organs in the trees of Picea abies and P. pungens from plantations with moderate and high pollution levels. It causes a decrease of morphometric characteristics (needle length, width, thickness, cross-section perimeter, surface area, and shoot length) and anatomical parameters [thickness of the epidermis, hypodermis, endoderm, diameter of central conducting cylinder (CCC), resin duct numbers, and their diameter] in both species. However, regarding the endoderm thickness and central conductor cylinder indices in P. pungens in conditions of urban technogenic environments, we observed an increase of these parameters in contrast to P. abies, which can be explained as the adaptive response spruce species to technogenic stress. It is shown that the higher pollution levels in both species cause 1.6-fold decrease in shoot length and 1.4 times shorter needle lifespan, respectively, along with worsening of tree ornamental traits. At the same time, a 1.3-fold increase in the needle number per shoot was observed as compared to the control being probably an adaptive response to adverse environmental conditions. Our investigations have shown that emissions from industry and transport suppress anatomical and morphometric indices of two-year-old needles and shoots of second order in P. abies and P. pungens, but the latter species demonstrates anatomical changes of adaptive nature.
Global Megatrends Impacts on the Landscape, Analysis Based on Key Drivers of the Megatrends and Landscape Change: Case Study of Danubian Lowland, Slovakia
Authors: Raniak Andrej , Izakovičová Zita
Published: December 2024

Global megatrends (GMTs) reshape landscapes worldwide, posing challenges for sustainability. This study delves into the complex interplay between GMTs and landscape changes in the Danube Lowland region of Slovakia, a microcosm of broader trends. Leveraging the concept of representative potential geoecosystems (REPGES), we assess historical landscape transformations and correlate them with key GMT drivers. Results reveal significant urban expansion linked to GMT2, primarily impacting the Bratislava area. Simultaneously, GMT5-driven economic growth manifests in agricultural land expansion and the total loss of one REPGES type. Notably, these changes coincide with a decrease in ecological stability across the region. Spatial analysis further unravels the interplay of GMTs, highlighting areas under intense urban and agricultural pressure. Our findings not only shed light on specific GMT impacts in the Danube Lowland but also offer valuable insights for landscape management across diverse regions facing similar megatrends. By understanding these complex interactions, we can develop informed strategies to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by a globalized world, promoting sustainable landscapes for the future.
Using A Gis For Mapping Land Use, Floral Richness, and Urbanization in the Peri-Urban Forest of Harouza (Tizi Ouzou, Algeria)
Authors: Larbi Mohamed Yamine , Derridj Arezki , Zanndouche Ouahid
Published: December 2024

The peri-urban forest of Harouza, located near the city of Tizi Ouzou in Algeria, is currently facing significant preservation challenges. These wooded areas, crucial for the country’s ecological and socioeconomic balance, are experiencing increasing pressures of human and climatic origin. Rapid urbanization, forest exploitation, and the consequences of climate change have significantly influenced its ecosystem, leading to visible degradation. The repercussions include a noticeable decrease in forest cover, a reduction in biodiversity, and the emergence of degraded areas. To address these issues, our study relied on Geographic Information Systems (GIS). These tools allowed for precise mapping of land use in our study area, revealing a total area of 201.5 ha. Most of this land is occupied by scrubland, a formation associated with forest degradation, covering 74.9 ha. The actual forest covers only 21.4 ha. The presence of 75 wild species, including 20 chamaephytes and 21 therophytes, reflects the disturbances experienced by this ecosystem. The use of multi-date images (2006, 2013, and 2022) over a 15-year period reveals a concerning trend of urbanization. Between 2006 and 2022, the low risk of urbanization decreased from 6.974 to 3.573 km, while the high risk increased from 0.753 to 3.528 km. This analysis of urbanization dynamics thus provides a detailed perspective on the most affected and potentially vulnerable areas.
Winter thunderstorms in Poland (1951–2020)
Authors: Wyrwas Jakub , Bielec-Bąkowska Zuzanna
Published: December 2024

One of the climate changes observed in mid-latitudes is the increase in the frequency of winter thunderstorms. These changes are also observed in Poland. For this reason, this study presents changes in the occurrence of thunderstorms in the cold half of the year and in winter in Poland from 1951 to 2020. The synoptic and thermodynamic conditions in the atmosphere, accompanied by particularly strong thunderstorms at this time of year, were also analysed based on selected cases of winter thun derstorms. The research was carried out on the basis of data from 46 synoptic stations, and the basic indicator was a day with a thunderstorm. Additionally, three cases of dangerous winter thunderstorms that occurred in Poland in the 21st century were analysed. For this purpose, synoptic maps, data from ERA5 reanalyses, aerological data and reports from the European Severe Weather Database were analysed. On this basis, it was found that there was a clear spatial differentiation of thunderstorms occurring in the cold half of the year, which in some regions of the country accounted for even more than 8% of all cases in the year. Although these thunderstorms are extremely rare, there are signs of an increase in their frequency during the studyperiod. The strongest influence on the occurrence of these phenomena in the cold season is air circulation and local conditions. Most of the thunderstorms considered were associated with atmospheric fronts. The strongest of them occurred during the passage of dynamic cold fronts, which are characterized by low potential energy and high wind shear values.
A Woman’s Revolutionary Discourse: Olympe De Gouges
Authors: Siess Jürgen
Published: December 2024

In a landmark text written in 1791, Olympe de Gouges makes a woman’s voice heard in the public arena by modulating and subverting an established genre of discourse. In her address to the queen, whose support she is seeking for the propagation of women’s rights, the speaker subverts the device of the dedicatory epistle to claim complete equality between the two sexes1.
African Women Writers Across Generations: Navigating Local Contexts and Evolving Feminist Approaches
Authors: Lomotey Benedicta Adokarley
Published: December 2024

Scholars in African feminism have historically repudiated the concept of feminism, which has been perceived as a Western imposition. Through a literary analysis of Ekomo (Nsué Angüe, 1985), Efuru (Nwapa, 1966) and Une si longue lettre (Bâ, 1979), the current article examines how first-generation African women writers approach the conditions that oppress women. Furthermore, the article discusses how the approach to women’s challenges in first-generation novels differs from the forms of feminism that are being articulated more recently by African feminist activists. The findings show that Nsué Angüe, Nwapa, and Bâ’s novels project the experiences and concerns of their female characters through the various ways of liberating women in the local context such as nego-feminism and snail-sense feminism. These African variants of feminism cater to their local peculiarities in ways that reflect the differences between African and Western cultures. However, these earlier approaches to women’s challenges do not align with the forms of feminism articulated today.
“Broken, I Want a Serious Relationship”: The (Self-)Representation of Heterosexual Masculinities on Tinder in India
Authors: Singh Sneha
Published: December 2024

This paper will discuss the representation of heterosexual masculinities in online dating applications in India. By taking the example of men’s self-representation on Tinder, the paper talks about how Indian men perform masculinities online. After collecting 120 male daters’ self-introductions (or bios), a thematic analysis was conducted to examine the online representation of masculinities in urban India. The analysis reveals that hegemonic Indian masculinities that operate within the terms of emotional insensitivity and toughness are not extensively present; rather, most male daters tend to display themselves as balanced selves between “emotional sensitivity” and “ideal manhood.” Male daters represent themselves within a range of qualities that are highly valued by women. The paper notes that Tinder provides a space for some men to negotiate (and even challenge) the dominant discourses on hegemonic masculinities by allowing the men to enact sensitivity and vulnerability, traits that are more aligned with women’s needs and perspectives.
Female Language in Research Articles Written by Transgender Scientists
Authors: Limnios Olga A.
Published: December 2024

Physiological examinations of trans individuals reveal that their bodies over time align to correspond with their gender identity and shift away from the parameters associated with gender assigned at birth. Considering this, the present study looks at language production of transgender scientists to determine if their language changes along with their physiology. The investigation centers on one aspect of scientific trans discourse—that is the frequency of female language. It was expected that those scientists who transitioned from male to female would use female language more frequently after the transition, and those who transitioned from female to male would exhibit fewer instances of female language. However, the opposite appears to be true. According to the evidence collected from 10 professional scientific articles, the frequency of female language goes up for those scientists transitioning from female to male and goes down for those who transition from male to female.
Generative AI and Labour Market Research Interest Framework
Authors: Grigorescu Adriana , Joita Florina
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the intersection between generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) and labour market by developing a comprehensive framework to analyse the current state of scientific interest in this emerging topic. The research employs a quantitative methodology, using a comparatively implemented bibliometric analysis, thus examining two major databases, Web of Science and Scopus with the aim to provide a deeper understanding of academic landscape. The research focuses on the database with the largest number of relevant papers, providing insight into the concentration of academic activity in the field, both in terms of evolution over time, trends, countries, keywords and authors with the highest research impact. The research reveals a significant gap in the literature concerning the impact of GenAI in labour market, with only one small percentage of papers addressing this topic. Key findings include a rise in publications post-2018, particularly from the USA, Russia and China, and a lack of developed research networks. This article concludes the further exploration of the implication of GenAI on the labour market is needed, with potential directions for future research.
Investigating the Challenges to Digital Transformation in the Public Sector, A Case Study of the State Information Technology Agency (SITA), South Africa
Authors: Komna Lindelwa , Mpungose Sabelo
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the challenges to digital transformation within the State Information Technology Agency (SITA) in South Africa. The purpose is to identify key barriers, explore their impact on operations and service delivery, and provide strategic recommendations. The research addresses the following questions: What are the main barriers SITA faces in adopting digital technologies? How do these challenges affect SITA’s operations and service delivery? What strategies can enhance SITA’s digital transformation efforts? Utilizing a qualitative research design, the study employs semi-structured interviews with SITA employees and reviews relevant documents. The analysis is guided by the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Kotter’s 8-Step Change Model. Key findings indicate that high costs, coordination difficulties, and data security concerns are significant barriers. These challenges lead to inefficiencies and hinder service delivery. The study recommends enhancing cybersecurity measures, implementing structured change management frameworks, investing in scalable infrastructure, and fostering a culture of innovation. These strategies aim to improve SITA’s digital transformation process, ensuring better service delivery and operational efficiency in the public sector.
Optimization of License Management for Business Process Automation with Robotic Process Automation
Authors: Janik Dawid
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Nowadays automation of business processes is increasing in popularity among organizations. The undeniable benefits, like freeing up the potential and time of well-educated employees so they can focus on more valued activities, are well known. With the growing number of automated processes, optimization of bot usage has become a significant factor in reducing costs. This paper presents an analysis supporting the proper management of business process automation in the context of bots’ license usage.

Design

The goal of this research is to build a tool that allows for the analysis of license demand and supports automated management of process runs.

Findings

For the described case, the research estimated the minimum number of bot licenses to ensure that the automated processes would run in a stable manner, and identified the time periods of different license utilization levels.

Practical implication

The described analysis is a tool for cost optimization of current bot infrastructure. It supports the continuous improvement processes for automated processes run management with balanced levels of license utilization.

Value

The analysis can be easily adopted for different setups of bot infrastructure to bring about benefits of cost optimization.
The Impact of Europeanisation of Criminal Environmental Protection on Criminal Law in the Czech Republic
Authors: Navrátilová Jana Tlapák
Published: December 2024

This article focuses on the influence of EU legal instruments on the criminal law of the Czech Republic in the field of environmental protection. The aim of the article is to analyse this influence and examine individual legal definitions of environmental crimes in the Czech legal system. For this purpose, descriptive, comparative, analytical, and logical methods are employed. The author first assesses the state of environmental protection in the Czech Republic, not only through criminal law. This is followed by a list of legal definitions of individual criminal offences, with an explanation of their basic features and specific differences. Each is referenced with the specific EU or public international law regulation on which the offence was based when introduced into the Czech legal system. The article also presents recent case law from the Supreme Court and the Constitutional Court of the Czech Republic concerning this issue. In conclusion, the author evaluates the level of environmental protection provided by criminal law and concludes that the Czech Republic is active in this area, fulfilling its obligations arising from European regulations governing environmental protection.
The Penalty of Restriction of Liberty – Expectations and Reality
Authors: Melezini Mirosława
Published: December 2024

This study attempts to answer the question whether the assumptions and expectations of the legislators, as expressed in the 2015 amendment to criminal law concerning the penalty of restriction of liberty, have been fulfilled in judicial practice. Based on the analysis, it appears that the main goal of the reform has been achieved: namely, a significant reduction in the adjudication of the penalty of restriction of liberty with conditional suspension of execution in favour of non-custodial penalties. Consequently, the role of the penalty of restriction of liberty in criminal policy has significantly expanded; however, these changes have also had a negative outcome by increasing the use of unconditional imprisonment. This indicates that for some offenders, limiting the application of conditional suspension of penalty execution has led to a rise in the frequency of unconditional imprisonment. When analysing issues related to the adjudication and execution of the penalty of restriction of liberty, particular attention was drawn to the importance of accurately selecting this penalty in the form of an obligation to perform unpaid, supervised community service in specific cases, and the non-compliance in practice with the directive in Article 58 § 2a of the Polish Criminal Code. This led to an increase in the number of substitute imprisonment penalties ordered in place of the restriction of liberty penalty. Additionally, based on established data, serious concerns arise regarding the effectiveness of the penalty of restriction of liberty, as measured by recidivism rates. This is because it brings the penalty of restriction of liberty closer in effectiveness to unconditional imprisonment and significantly deviates from the effectiveness of other non-custodial penalties and measures.
Directors of Maritime Offices as Local Maritime Administration Bodies
Authors: Tużnik Marta Roma
Published: December 2024

This study examines the roles of directors of maritime offices as local maritime administration bodies. The publication is divided into three thematic areas. The first concerns the placement of directors of maritime offices within the system of autonomous government administration bodies, as defined by the Act of 23 January 2009 on the Voivode and Government Administration in the Voivodeships. The second thematic area focuses on the legal position of directors of maritime offices, as specified by the Act of 21 March 1991 on Maritime Areas of the Republic of Poland and Maritime Administration. The third thematic area outlines the competences of maritime administration bodies, including those of directors of maritime offices, whose powers extend beyond the above-mentioned Act. The publication concludes with an assessment of the currently applicable legal regulations regarding the subject matter. The aim of this review article is to systematise the fundamental issues concerning directors of maritime offices as local maritime administration bodies. The main research hypothesis posited by the author is that directors of maritime offices possess extensive competences as local maritime administration bodies. The research methods employed include analysis of legal texts and dogmatic analysis. The research is national in scope.
Prediction of vertebral body mechanical parameters using opportunistic CT data
Authors: Rokita Eugeniusz , Tatoń Grzegorz
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

The purpose of the study was to test a method describing the mechanical properties of bone using clinically available CT data.

Material and Methods:

The samples, 50 L3 vertebrae taken from males 22 to 81 years old, were examined with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and quantitative CT. An analysis of CT images and their image histograms was performed. The greyscale means – XC1, XC2, their standard deviations – SD1, SD2, and the areas under the curves – X1, X2 characterizing the organic matrix and bone material, respectively, were calculated by fitting two Gaussian functions. The compression tests were performed to determine the elastic modulus (E), ultimate stress (σmax), ultimate strain, and the ratio of work to fracture and the volume of the vertebra.

Results:

It was found that E and σmax were most precisely described by the parameter related to the trabecular bone density (XC2) obtained from the histogram analysis. Using the linear model, the coefficient of determination (R2) equals to 0.706 and 0.846 for E and σmax, respectively. For volumetric (vBMD) and areal bone mineral density (aBMD), R2 is 0.641 and 0.208 for E, while for σmax equals 0.784 and 0.356. After correction of vBMD using the histogram parameters R2 for E and σmax rise to 0.692 and 0.835, respectively.

Conclusions:

The superiority of the new method of E and σmax estimation based on clinically available CT data was confirmed. The proposed method does not require calibration and predicts the mechanical parameters of the vertebrae more precisely than vBMD or aBMD separately.
Is the mass-media guilty for so many English loanwords in Romanian?
Authors: Crețu Ioana
Published: December 2024

Words like fake news, like, face to face, feeling, start-up, take away, hairstylist, low cost and others are among the 3,600 new entries in the Romanian language dictionary (DOOM3) published in 2022. Most of the borrowings can be found in technical language, while others are used in media language or in colloquial language. It is discussed whether the anglicisms in lexicographical works nowadays. While the head of the editorial team speaks of linguistic enrichment (Mortu 2023), other researchers (including Popescu, Iordan, Florescu and others) see the many new anglicisms more as language impoverishment and even language decline. Based on the example of the Romanian language, various aspects are discussed, including the frequency of newly recorded words. The article focuses on the proposed changes in the new lexicographical work in order to answer the question of what role foreign words play in language and if mass-media is an accelerator for this linguistic and social development.
Evaluating photographic authenticity: How well do ChatGPT 4o and Gemini distinguish between real and AI-generated images?
Authors: Gross Eduard-Claudiu
Published: December 2024

As artificial intelligence (AI) advances, differentiating between actual and AI-generated images has become an increasingly difficult task. The present exploratory research looks at the capacity of two leading AI models, ChatGPT and Gemini, to correctly classify genuine vs. synthetic photographs in a variety of categories, including wildlife, portraiture, and abstract art. The present research evaluates the accuracy, mistake rates, and handling of complex visual content of both models, shedding light on their strengths and limits and providing significant insights into their possible uses in combatting visual falsehood.
Copyright Prerogatives in Audiovisual Work: The Documentary
Authors: Ciocan Ioana-Tatiana , Ciocan Maria-Iuliana
Published: December 2024

The issue of copyright remains a topic of constant interest, especially in today’s society, where the field of artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly present. This study focuses on these issues and is both theoretical and interdisciplinary, combining aspects of private law with those of mass media. The article will present various interpretations of the documentary (as an original creation), as it is a genre at the intersection of different specializations. The focus will then be on illustrating the variety of documentary typologies, with the multitude of forms and subjects they can address. By correlating legislative elements from the EU with those of our country (with an emphasis on the latter), we will examine the documentary from the perspective of copyright, identifying both the influence of moral rights and those of economic rights on the mentioned journalistic genre. Additionally, we will propose a new research direction for a future study, highlighting some of the limitations that arise in the creation and dissemination of documentaries, imposed by copyright law.
Towards Sustainable Agriculture: A Comparative Analysis of Organic Crop Area in Czechia, Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary
Authors: Priečková Dominika , Lušňáková Zuzana
Published: December 2024

This study analyzes the trends and growth trajectories of organic farming in the Visegrad Four (V4) countries – Czechia, Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary – over the period from 2018 to 2022. Amidst increasing environmental and social challenges, organic farming has emerged as a sustainable agricultural alternative in response to climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. The research examines the total agricultural areas of each country, highlighting the percentage of land dedicated to organic farming and its evolution over the specified period. Findings reveal that while Czechia maintains the largest organic farming area, Hungary demonstrates the most significant growth rate, suggesting a shift towards sustainable practices. Ultimately, this study provides valuable insights into the potential for expanding organic farming within the V4 region, emphasizing its role in achieving sustainable rural development and ecological balance.