bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Associated with Completion of Hepatitis B Vaccination Doses among Adults in Kikuube District, Western Uganda.
Authors: Peter Byaruhanga , Justus Kwesiga
Published: September 2024

The Hepatitis B virus is one of the most serious human health problems, causing thousands of deaths per year. The disease is prevented by the administration of 3 doses of vaccine over an 18-month period. Completion of Hepatitis B vaccine doses has been challenging. The study assessed the trends of Hepatitis B virus infection in Kikuube District, vaccination completion rates among those who initiated vaccination and the factors associated with completion of vaccination. This was a cross-sectional study with qualitative and quantitative data collection approaches. A total of 377 persons who had initiated Hepatitis B vaccination in the last 6 months were randomly sampled for interviews. A total of 15 key informant interviews were conducted with in-charges of health facilities on the subject matter. Health facility records were reviewed to assess the trends in Hepatitis B virus infection those who tested for Hepatitis B. The prevalence of Hepatitis B virus infection was 2.87% in the year 2020 and 4.4% in 2021. 31.3% of those who initiated Hepatitis B vaccination completed all the three doses. Factors associated with Hepatitis B vaccine completion were; Sex; male (AOR =0.542 CI = 0.348-0.842), being married (AOR 4.645, CI 1.325-16.290), Anglican (AOR 0.470, CI 0.263-0.841), having no education (AOR 3.114, CI 1.676-5.787), primary level of education (AOR 10.162, CI 3.302-31.272), earning less income less than 250,000 (AOR 2.716, CI 1.169-6.313) and also between 300,000 to 600,000 (OR 9.507, CI 1.931-46.80), living a distance less than 5km (AOR 5.27, CI 2.103-13.20) and being sensitized about Hepatitis B vaccination (AOR 0.162, CI 0.040-0.647). The prevalence of Hepatitis B virus infection among the people in Kikuube District still remains high at 4.4% with low Hepatitis B vaccination completion rate (31.3%). There is need for the Ministry of Health and other donor agencies to create more awareness to the public and community members so as to increase on the level of uptake and completion of Hepatitis B vaccination.
Unveiling the Gig Economy: Exploring Work Arrangements and Job Performance in Kenyan Organizations
Authors: Mamuli Dr Laura , Kagucia Dr Catherine
Published: September 2024

The contemporary workplace is undergoing profound transformation with the proliferation of the gig economy and alternative work arrangements, which pose both challenges and opportunities for organizations globally. Despite this transformation, a comprehensive understanding of how these modern work structures impact employee job performance within Kenyan organizations remains limited. This study addresses this gap by investigating the effects of the gig economy and alternative work arrangements on job performance in Kenyan contexts, contributing to the field of Human Resource Management. This is an empirical study employing purposive sampling to select organizations in Kenya, including Safaricom, Jumia, and M-KOPA, and is complemented by a systematic literature review. By synthesizing empirical evidence and theoretical insights, the study aims to illuminate the intricate mechanisms through which the gig economy and alternative work arrangements influence employee job performance in the Kenyan organizational landscape. The findings are anticipated to provide valuable implications for HR practitioners, policymakers, and organizational leaders, guiding strategic decision-making and planning efforts. Ultimately, this research aims to enhance understanding and inform strategic responses within Kenyan organizations, enabling them to effectively navigate the evolving landscape of contemporary work arrangements. By offering insights derived from empirical evidence, the study aims to contribute to a holistic understanding of how the gig economy, alongside alternative work arrangements, shapes employee job performance within the unique context of Kenya’s organizational environments.
The Effect of Dispersion and Attenuation on Fiber Optic Communication Systems
Authors: A. Nornormey Eben , Awudu Nelson Nathaniel , Asare Emmanuel , Opoku-Akyea Daniel , Okpoti Felix , McEben-Nornormey Reine Makafui
Published: September 2024

The paper describes how signal can be transmitted effectively using fibre optic communication system. Signal transmission through this system is facilitated by optical transmitter, fiber optic cable and optical receiver. The fibre cable is classified based on refractive index, materials used and mode of propagation of light. The mode of propagation of light and refractive index of the core are used to form step index-single mode fibres,graded index-single mode fibres, step index-multimode fibres and graded index-multimode fibres. This article demonstrated the mathematical principles underpinning light wave propagation through fibre optic cable. The paper also brought to the fore the importance of total internal reflection (TIR) in fibre optic communication. The researchers derived formulae to show the significance of Acceptance Angle, Numerical Aperture (NA), Fractional Refractive Index (Δ), Normalized Frequency and Number of Modes (N) in fibre optics. Features such as dispersion and attenuation found space in the paper, while dispersion distortssignal output and thereby limiting information capacity of the communication system, attenuation introduces signal losses into the system. The techniques and mechanism that can be used to minimize signal distortion and loss in the network were mentioned. The authors also discussed formulae used to determine values of material and waveguide dispersion coefficients and attenuation coefficient. These formulae and other parameters were used to formulate tables and graphs depicting effects of dispersion and attenuation in optical network. The authors also designed fibre optic networks between Accra to Cape Coast and Accra to Sogakope.
Ethical AI: Addressing bias in machine learning models and software applications
Authors: Oyekunle Claudius Oyeniran  , Adebunmi Okechukwu Adewusi  , Adams Gbolahan Adeleke  , Lucy Anthony Akwawa  , Chidimma Francisca Azubuko
Published: September 2024

As artificial intelligence (AI) increasingly integrates into various aspects of society, addressing bias in machine learning models and software applications has become crucial. Bias in AI systems can originate from various sources, including unrepresentative datasets, algorithmic assumptions, and human factors. These biases can perpetuate discrimination and inequity, leading to significant social and ethical consequences. This paper explores the nature of bias in AI, emphasizing the need for ethical AI practices to ensure fairness and accountability. We first define and categorize the different types of bias—data bias, algorithmic bias, and human-induced bias—highlighting real-world examples and their impacts. The discussion then shifts to methods for mitigating bias, including strategies for improving data quality, developing fairness-aware algorithms, and implementing robust auditing processes. We also review existing ethical guidelines and frameworks, such as those proposed by IEEE and the European Union, which provide a foundation for ethical AI development. Challenges in identifying and addressing bias are examined, such as the trade-offs between fairness and model accuracy, and the complexities of legal and regulatory requirements. Future directions are considered, including emerging trends in ethical AI, the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, and innovations in bias detection and mitigation. In conclusion, ongoing vigilance and commitment to ethical practices are essential for developing AI systems that are equitable and just. This paper calls for continuous improvement and proactive measures from developers, researchers, and policymakers to create AI technologies that serve all individuals fairly and without bias.
Keywords: Ethical AI, Bias, Machine Learning, Models, Software Applications.
5G technology and its impact on software engineering: New opportunities for mobile applications
Authors: Oyekunle Claudius Oyeniran  , Adebunmi Okechukwu Adewusi  , Adams Gbolahan Adeleke  , Lucy Anthony Akwawa  , Chidimma Francisca Azubuko
Published: September 2024

The advent of 5G technology marks a significant milestone in the evolution of mobile networks, offering unprecedented speed, low latency, and enhanced capacity. This transformation is poised to reshape the landscape of software engineering, particularly in the development of mobile applications. The shift from 4G to 5G introduces new paradigms in software design and development, necessitating the adaptation of existing practices to harness the full potential of this advanced network. This paper explores the profound impact of 5G technology on software engineering, highlighting the new opportunities it presents for mobile application development. Key features of 5G, such as enhanced mobile broadband, ultra-reliable low latency communication, and massive machine-type communication, provide the foundation for innovative mobile applications that can deliver richer, more immersive user experiences. The increased data transfer speeds and reduced latency enable real-time applications, from augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) to telemedicine and remote collaboration tools. Moreover, 5G’s role in the proliferation of the Internet of Things (IoT) and smart devices creates opportunities for the development of applications that support large-scale connected ecosystems. However, the paper also addresses the challenges and considerations that come with this technological leap, including security and privacy concerns, regulatory issues, and the technical hurdles of integrating 5G with existing infrastructure. In conclusion, the paper emphasizes the need for software engineers to embrace these opportunities while navigating the challenges, positioning themselves at the forefront of a rapidly evolving digital landscape driven by 5G technology.
Keywords: 5G, Technology, Software Engineering, Opportunities, Mobile Applications.
Front-end development and cybersecurity: A conceptual approach to building secure web applications
Authors: Harrison Oke Ekpobimi  , Regina Coelis Kandekere  , Adebamigbe Alex Fasanmade
Published: September 2024

The growing importance of cybersecurity in the digital age necessitates a comprehensive approach to securing web applications, particularly through robust front-end development practices. This review paper proposes a conceptual framework for integrating security best practices into front-end development to mitigate common vulnerabilities such as Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) and Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF). The framework emphasizes key components: threat modeling, secure coding practices, security automation, integration into Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) pipelines, and continuous monitoring. By embedding security into every stage of the development process, the framework enhances the security of web applications. It aligns with U.S. national interests in bolstering cybersecurity. The paper also discusses the implications of secure front-end development for national cybersecurity, highlighting the framework's potential to reduce the attack surface of critical web applications significantly. Recommendations are provided for policymakers and industry leaders to promote adopting secure front-end practices, ensuring a resilient digital infrastructure.
Keywords: Secure Front-End Development, Cybersecurity, Web Application Security, Threat Modeling, Security Automation, National Cybersecurity.
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence in Shaping Advertising Strategies for SMEs: Systematic Literature Review and Qualitative Research
Authors: Gabelaia Ioseb
Published: September 2024

Today, digital advancements in business challenge SMEs to reach and engage with their target audiences through advertising. Traditional advertising strategies require modification, as consumer behaviors are changing. Therefore, they view ads differently on various platforms. Nevertheless, Artificial intelligence gained wide opportunities in various industries, and marketing is no exception. The research aimed to explore Artificial Intelligence’s role in modifying SMEs’ advertising campaigns and strategies. The author used quantitative research. A survey study was developed based on a systematic literature review. The questionnaire was distributed using snowball and conventional sampling methods to a diverse sample of SMEs across social media platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and X. The author used the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) as a theoretical framework. According to the TAM model, users’ acceptance and adoption of technology are influenced by perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEOU). Perceived usefulness would compare to SMEs’ beliefs about the effectiveness and benefits of AI in improving advertising methods. Perceived ease of use would correlate to SMEs’ perceptions of the ease with which practitioners can combine and use AI tools within their existing advertising campaigns. The research findings underline empirical evidence of the significance of Artificial intelligence in advertising strategies for SMEs. These research insights offer SMEs actionable recommendations for effectively using AI to enhance their advertising strategies, gain a competitive advantage, and gain sustainable growth in the digital landscape.
The History of the Business Budgeting to the Present: A Literature Review
Authors: URSU Ionela
Published: September 2024

Budgets always played an important role in businesses and the current paper aims to present a brief history of budgeting, by conducting a litterature review. Nowadays researchers and practitioners are mentioning that there is a need to change the way we budget within the companies and in order to understand these current trends and principles, we need to investigate the budgets’ origins,evolution and context. This paper is relevant because it shows the evolution of budgets from the origins to the present compared to other studies that are limited to investigate a certain time period.The concept of budgets can be traced back to the Babylonians, Egyptians and Romans, but the first modern budgeting started to develop in England (1760) as a tool for the government to control the expenditures. The term „budget” was initially used in the United States, when this tool was brought here from Europe. Budgets were used in companies only for specific departments with the purpose of restricting the expenditures, such as advertising, research and development, personnel. The budgets, in the business field, developed mainly beetween 1895 and 1920 due to the evolution of the industrial engineering and cost accounting. There are several factors that contributed the budgeting usage into the companies, such as: industrial development, production standardization, development of standard costs, budgetary literature increase and competition on the market. Even if this tool is used by most of the companies, budgeting is changing in order to adapt to the constant changing environments. As a response, new models are developed and proposed such as modern budgeting, better budgeting, advanced budgeting, beyond budgeting.
Performance Comparison of RESTful Web APIs using a Test Suite: .NET vs. Java Spring Boot
Authors: GODINHO Antonio , ROSADO Jose , SA Filipe , CARDOSO Filipe
Published: September 2024

Modern web development methods use full-stack to split front-end (client-side) and back-end (server-side) components. Front-end technologies involve what the user sees and interacts with, and back-end technologies involve the server-side logic, databases, and server configuration. Both sections can be technologically independent, yet there’s a need for a communications protocol. In modern web development, web APIs enable applications to interact with external services and exchange data, allowing the back-end to communicate with multiple and different front-ends. The landscape of software development, especially in web platforms, is in a constant state of technological advancement. Selecting the right technology for building a Web API requires a comparative analysis to make informed decisions. Performance testing of a web API involves evaluating various performance characteristics, such as response time, reliability, scalability, and resource utilization under different scenarios. However, many testing frameworks focus on specific components or HTTP methods rather than considering the entire technology stack, potentially leading to inaccurate performance assessments. In this study, two web APIs were developed—one using .NET and the other employing Java Spring Boot. Both APIs use the same database engine and the same database to manipulate identical datasets. By utilizing a test scenario and toolset, real-world conditions can be simulated, allowing for the evaluation and visualization of the results of each test to facilitate performance comparison.
The Impact of Business Investment on Euronext Stock Returns: A Study of Companies Listed at Amsterdam, Brussels, Paris, and Lisbon Stock Exchanges between the Years 2017 and 2022
Authors: COSTA Luís , VIEIRA Elisabete , MADALENO Mara
Published: September 2024

The objective of this work is analyzing the impact that the investment from companies has on a number of Euronext stock returns. For the analysis, we used the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) to collect a sample of companies from the stock exchanges in Amsterdam, Brussels, Paris, and Lisbon, between 2017 and 2022. The results indicate that the investment generated by companies has a positive and significant impact on Euronext stock returns, therefore suggesting that managers from Euronext companies should employ a balanced investment strategy that incorporates both tangible and intangible assets, in order to enhance stock returns. This study can provide some guidance in decision-making for private and institutional investors investing in Euronext stocks. The originality of this article derives from the analysis of the impact that investment, divided between tangible and intangible assets, has on Euronext stocks returns. Finally, it is important to point out that the use of the GMM methodology allowed for the collection of robust results.
Enhancing Financial Performance through Social Responsibility Disclosure: A Study of Industrial Companies in Palestine
Authors: ASSAD Heba N.
Published: September 2024

Social responsibility disclosure (SRD) has become a pivotal topic in various economic sectors as it develops firms’ reputations, attracts new customers, and raises their market shares. Therefore, many entities are concerned with clarifying their role in their communities by providing voluntarily financial support to achieve their goals, especially with the persistence of competitors in the market. However, institutions still have an awareness scarcity of the social responsibility importance and the return they can obtain from it, which can affect their performance and market indicators. Besides, there is limited research on its influence on financial performance in the context of Palestinian firms. Therefore, this study investigates how disclosing social responsibility activities can impact the financial performance of the industrial companies listed on the Palestine Stock Exchange (PEX) from 2018 to 2022. Panel data from annual reports are analyzed using SPSS. SRD is measured using an index from four main categories and 20 subcategories, while financial performance is assessed using Tobin’s Q and return on assets (ROA). The results indicate that SRD significantly impacts financial performance, evidenced by ROA and Tobin’s Q. However, no significant differences in SRD are found among Palestinian industrial companies during the study period. These results suggest that increasing SRD improves financial performance, leading to recommendations for promoting SRD practices through workshops and legislation.
Contribution of Staff Motivation Towards Organizational Development: A Case of Integrated Justice Centre, Kinondoni, Tanzania
Authors: Galinoma Barry , Barongo Felician
Published: September 2024

This study was conducted at the Integrated Justice Centre in Kinondoni, Tanzania, with 75 respondents participating selected through purposive sampling from a target of 94 employees working at the Integrated Justice Center, Kinondoni. The specific objective was to assess the contribution of staff motivation to organizational development. The study was guided by Maslow’s Theory of Hierarchical Needs and Alderfer’s ERG Theory. A case study design was employed using quantitative data collection methods, including questionnaires. Data was analyzed quantitatively using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The findings revealed that well-tailored HRM policies significantly contribute to staff motivation by clearly defining motivation criteria, incentives, and promotion models. Effective motivation practices, such as recognition and incentives, have a substantial impact on employee enthusiasm and organizational growth. Motivation was found to enhance employee commitment, with higher commitment levels observed when clear motivation standards were set. Additionally, extrinsic motivation was shown to positively influence employee performance. The study concludes that motivation is crucial for improving employee performance and organizational growth. It is recommended that the organization implement well-defined HRM policies, maintain transparent motivation systems, facilitate in-service training, revise retirement packages, and empower employees with authority.
DIAGNOSTIC ISSUES OF TESTICULAR TORSION IN THE ARMED FORCES OF THE REPUBLIC OF BELARUS
Authors: M. V. Doronin , I. D. Dub , A. V. Strigo , J. V. Dubovski , Yu. A. Murashko , G. A. Schetko , D. S. Valetov
Published: September 2024

This article retrospectively analyzes 17 completed cases of testicular torsion in the time interval from December 2003 to January 2024 (20 years). The authors studied the clinical features, history, objective status, and treatment results of patients with testicular torsion. A clinical case of late admission of a patient with this pathology is presented. On the basis of retrospective analysis the necessity of TWIST scale application to improve the diagnosis of testicular torsion is substantiated. The role and place of manual detorsion in reducing critical testicular ischemia is shown.
ALGORITHM OF THERAPEUTIC PRESCRIPTIONS IN PHYSIOTHERAPY
Authors: V. V. Mogilevitch , N. M. Khrenina
Published: September 2024

This article provides information about the algorithm of therapeutic prescriptions in physiotherapy in order to create an effective and optimal complex of use of therapeutic physical factors.
Including the Phosphorus cycle into the LPJ-GUESS Dynamic Global Vegetation Model (v4.1, r10994) – Global patterns and temporal trends of N and P primary production limitation
Authors: Dantas de Paula Mateus , Forrest Matthew , Warlind David , Darela Filho João Paulo , Fleischer Katrin , Rammig Anja , Hickler Thomas
Published: September 2024

Abstract. Phosphorus (P) is a critical macronutrient for plant growth, often limiting plant production in areas where plant demand is higher than soil supply. In contrast to nitrogen (N), P cannot be sourced from the atmosphere, therefore where it is rare, it becomes a strong constraint of primary production. Due to this, most DGVMs are incorporating a prognostic P cycle in addition to N, improving their ability to correctly predict stocks and fluxes of carbon, and how climate change may impact N and/or P limitations to soil processes and plant productivity. We included the P-cycle into an individual-based DGVM, LPJ-GUESS (v4.1, r10994), in order to improve the model performance with regard to observations of vegetation and soil N and P stocks and fluxes in comparison to the N-only (LPJ-GUESS-CN) model version. The new model version (LPJ-GUESS-CNP) includes soil organic P dynamics, P limitation of organic matter decomposition, P deposition, temperature and humidity-dependent P weathering, plant P demand and uptake, and P limitations to photosynthesis. Using the CNP version of LPJ-GUESS we also estimated global spatial patterns of nutrient limitation to plant growth, as well the temporal change in plant N and P limitation during the 20th and early 21st centuries, evaluating the causes for these temporal shifts. We show that including the P-cycle significantly reduces simulated global vegetation and soil C and N stocks and fluxes, in particular in tropical regions. The CNP model simulation improved the fit to global biomass observations in relation to the CN simulation. The CNP model predicted predominant P limitation of plant growth in the tropics, and N limitation in the temperate, boreal, and high altitude tropical regions. The CNP model also correctly predicted the global magnitude (~ 50 PgP) and the spatial pattern of total organic P stocks. P limited regions cover less land surface area (46 %) than N limited, but are responsible for 57 % of global GPP and 68 % of vegetation biomass, while N limited regions store a larger portion of total carbons stocks (55.9 %). Finally, the model showed that globally primary production limitation to N availability decreased and limitation to P increased from 1901 to 2018, with N being more responsive to temperature, and P to CO2 changes. We conclude that including the P-cycle in models like LPJ-GUESS is crucial for understanding global-scale spatial and temporal patterns in nutrient limitation and improving the simulated carbon stocks and fluxes.
Modelled surface climate response to Icelandic effusive volcanic eruptions: Sensitivity to season and size
Authors: Zoëga Tómas , Storelvmo Trude , Krüger Kirstin
Published: September 2024

Abstract. Effusive, long-lasting volcanic eruptions impact climate through emission of gases and subsequent production of aerosols. Previous studies, both modelling and observational, have made efforts in quantifying these impacts and untangle them from natural variability. However, due to the scarcity of large and well observed effusive volcanic eruptions, our understanding remains patchy. Here we use an Earth system model to systematically investigate the climate response to high-latitude, effusive volcanic eruptions, similar to the 2014–15 Holuhraun eruption in Iceland, as a function of eruption season and eruptive size. The results show that the climate response is regional and strongly modulated by different seasons, with mid-latitude cooling during summer and Arctic warming during winter. Furthermore, as eruptions become larger in terms of sulfur dioxide emissions, the climate response becomes increasingly insensitive to variations in the emission strength, levelling out for eruptions between 20 and 30 times the size of the 2014–15 Holuhraun eruption. Volcanic eruptions are generally considered to lead to surface cooling, but our results indicate that this is an oversimplification, especially in the Arctic where we find warming to be the dominating response during fall and winter.
Evaluating tropospheric nitrogen dioxide in UKCA using OMI satellite retrievals over South and East Asia
Authors: Pandey Alok K. , Stevenson David S. , Zhao Alcide , Pope Richard J. , Hossaini Ryan , Kumar Krishan , Chipperfield Marytn P.
Published: September 2024

Abstract. We compare tropospheric column nitrogen dioxide (NO2) in the United Kingdom Chemistry and Aerosol (UKCA) model version 11.0 with satellite measurements from NASA’s Earth Observing System (EOS) Aura satellite Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) to investigate the seasonality and trends of tropospheric NO2 over South and East Asia (S/E Asia). UKCA is the atmospheric composition component of the UK Earth System Model (UKESM). UKCA was run with nudged meteorology, producing hourly output over S/E Asia for 2005–2015. OMI averaging kernels have been applied to the model hourly data sampled at Aura’s local overpass time of 13:45±15 to allow consistent model-data comparison. Background UKCA and OMI tropospheric column NO2 typically ranges between 0–2 × 1015 molecules/cm2. Diurnal cycles and vertical profiles of the tropospheric NO2 column in UKCA show that the daily minimum tropospheric column NO2 occurs around the satellite overpass time. UKCA captures the seasonality but overestimates NO2, by a factor of ~2.5, especially during winter over Eastern China and North India, at times and locations with high aerosol loadings. Heterogeneous chemistry is represented in the version of UKCA used here as uptake of N2O5 on internally generated sulfate aerosol. However, aerosol surface area may be underestimated in polluted locations, contributing to overestimation of NO2. In addition, the model may underestimate emissions of volatile organic compounds and associated peroxy acetyl (PAN) formation, leading to insufficient long-range transport of oxidised nitrogen, also contributing to overestimation of NO2 over polluted regions and underestimation over remote regions. Quantifying and understanding discrepancies in modelled NO2 warrant further investigation as they propagate into modelling of multiple environmental issues.
Impacts of meteorology and emission reductions on haze pollution during the lockdown in the North China Plain: Insights from six-year simulations
Authors: Liu Lang , Long Xin , Li Yi , Zang Zengliang , Han Yan , Bao Zhier , Chen Yang , Feng Tian , Yang Jinxin
Published: September 2024

Abstract. Haze events across the North China Plain (NCP) during the COVID-19 lockdown have highlighted the complexities of air quality management in the face of reduced human activity. While previous studies have focused primarily on the atmospheric chemistry processes under anomalous weather conditions, interactions between air pollutants, atmospheric chemistry, and their responses to emissions and meteorological factors remain underexplored. Here, we utilized the WRF-Chem model to assess the impact of abrupt emission reductions and meteorological conditions on PM2.5 levels across the NCP. By comparing simulations sensitive to meteorological conditions with climatology averaged over 2015–2019 and considering the sudden decrease in anthropogenic emissions due to the lockdown, we identified significant regional disparities. In the Northern NCP (NNCP), adverse meteorological conditions negated the benefits of emission reductions, leading to a net increase in PM2.5 levels by 30 to 60 μg m-3 during haze episodes. Conversely, the Southern NCP (SNCP) experienced a decrease in PM2.5 levels attributed to favourable meteorological conditions combined with emission reductions, with decreases ranging from 20 to 40 μg m-3 during the same periods. Our results highlight the critical role of meteorological conditions in modulating the effects of emission reductions, particularly in regions like the NNCP, where adverse weather can significantly counteract the benefits of reduced emissions. This study provides valuable insights into the complex interactions between emissions, meteorology, and air quality, underscoring the necessity of integrated approaches that address emissions and atmospheric dynamics.
Potential for Equation Discovery with AI in the Climate Sciences
Authors: Huntingford Chris , Nicoll Andrew J. , Klein Cornelia , Ahmad Jawairia A.
Published: September 2024

Abstract. Climate change and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are both attracting great interest across society. There is also substantial interest in merging the two sciences, with evidence already that AI can identify earlier precursors to extreme weather events. There are a range of AI algorithms, and selection of the most appropriate one maximizes the amount of additional understanding extractable for any dataset. However, most AI algorithms are statistically based and even with careful splitting between data for training and testing, they arguably remain as emulators. Emulators may make unreliable predictions when driven by out-of-sample forcing and climate change is an example of this, requiring understanding responses to atmospheric Greenhouse Gas (GHG) concentrations that may be substantially higher than present or the recent past. Notable, though, is the emerging AI technique of “equation discovery”. AI-derived equations from data also does not automatically guarantee good performance for new forcing regimes. However, access to equations rather than a statistical emulator guides system understanding, as their variables and parameters often have a better interpretation. Better process knowledge enables judgements as to whether equations are trusted under extrapolation. For many climate system attributes, descriptive equations are not yet fully available or may be unreliable. This uncertainty is hindering the development of Earth System Models (ESMs) which remain the main tool for projections of large-scale environmental change as GHGs rise. Here, we make the case for using AI-driven equation discovery in climate research, given that its outputs are more interpretable in terms of processes. As ESMs are based around the numerical discretisation of equations that describe climate components, equation discovery from new datasets provides a format amenable to direct inclusion into such models where representation of environmental systems is missing. We present three illustrative examples of how AI-led equation discovery may advance future climate science research. These are generating new equations related to atmospheric convection, parameter derivation for existing equations of the terrestrial carbon cycle, and (additional to ESM improvement) the creation of simplified models of large-scale oceanic features to assess Tipping Point (TP) risks.
Discharge and sediment fluxes along the Amazon river: RDSM model concepts and validation
Authors: Naffaa Safaa , Dunne Frances F. E. , Hoch Jannis , Sterk Geert , de Jong Steven S. M. , van Beek Rens L. P. H.
Published: September 2024

Abstract. The Amazon covering approximately 6.8 million km2, is the largest river by discharge in the world, and transports copious suspended sediment. In the Amazon, human activities such as dam construction and land use change are likely to affect sediment transport strongly as the basin moves further away from pristine conditions. In this study, we applied the River Discharge and Sediment model RDSM to simulate annual and monthly discharge and sediment transport in the Amazon between 1980 and 2009. To this end, the model couples sediment production with runoff generation and river transport. The model works at a spatial resolution of 5 arc minutes. It accounts for the impacts of land use change on runoff generation and sediment production, and for the entrapment of sediment by lakes and reservoirs. The sediment load in the stream of every cell at every time-step, therefore, reflects sediment production, uptake and deposition as it is transported and accumulated along the drainage network. We validated the model using the Hybam-project dataset for seven discharge stations distributed over the Amazon. Additionally, estimations of sediment transport from previous studies were used as benchmark. The model is able to effectively capture the monthly and annual variations of discharge with Kling-Gupta Efficiency ranges from 0.57 to 0.92 and sediment transport within the basin and to the ocean with Kling-Gupta Efficiency ranges from -1.7 to 0.49. Based on the model results, the annual average sediment transport (1980–2009) at station Obidos Porto, the station furthest downstream, is 6.46 × 108 tonne/year and the annual average discharge is 17.5 × 104 m3/s. The model estimates the annual average sediment transport to the ocean at 5.96 × 108 tonne/year, which is in the same order of magnitude as field measurements and is in line with the results of other studies. The RDSM model facilitates future estimation of sedimentation impact in reservoirs incorporating water resource management and will so contribute to a better understanding of the complexity of the Amazon basin.
SAFENET – Fracture evolution in crystalline rocks (from lab to in-situ scale)
Authors: Kolditz Olaf , McDermott Christopher , Yoon Jeoung Seok , Renner Jörg , Zhuang Li , Fraser-Harris Andrew , Chandler Michael , Graham Samuel , Wang Ju , Mollaali Mostafa
Published: September 2024

Abstract. The DECOVALEX Task SAFENET is dedicated to advancing the understanding of fracture nucleation and evolution processes in crystalline rocks, with applications in nuclear waste management and geothermal reservoir engineering. Further improvement of fracture mechanics models is required in two distinct areas. Firstly, there is a need to enhance numerical methods for fracture mechanics under varying thermo-hydro-mechanical-chemical (THMC) conditions. Secondly, there is a requirement to develop applied tools for performance and safety assessment in the context of nuclear waste management, as well as for reservoir optimisation in geothermal applications. Building on the achievements of SAFENET, which concentrated on benchmarking fracture models and experimental laboratory analyses, SAFENET-2 is dedicated to extending and validating models from the laboratory to the field scale. This paper gives a detailed description of the work plan for Safenet-2 of the experimental program and the modeling exercises. The experiments will be carried out at the rock mechanics laboratories of the Universities of Edinburgh and Chongqing. For field data, the STIMTEC experiment at the Reiche Zeche teaching and research mine (Technische Universität Bergakademie Freiberg) is used. The paper gives a detailed description of the individual steps of the task. As a result of Safenet, the benchmark suite will be made available as interactive exercises via a web portal, thus promoting the concept of open science. The paper will help the teams to organize their work efficiently and also provide an overview and insight to the community.
The Shame Is Not Mine: Addressing Abuse of Power Dynamics in Medical Training
Authors: Norman Sierra
Published: September 2024

Medical student mistreatment is a longstanding issue that continues to occur far too often. This article narrates my experience with abuse of power dynamics in my medical training. Despite assurances from a site director that my concerns about a negative learning environment would not affect my evaluation and a text that I “finished strong,” he mistakenly sent me an email meant for a colleague, stating he believed I would be giving him a negative evaluation and that he would be failing me. In my evaluation, I was failed clinically with the comment: “it’s a matter of time before she hurts a patient.” The subsequent lack of action highlights the systemic vulnerability medical students face during their training. The article advocates for systemic changes, including institutional action to support their statements against mistreatment and retaliation, accountability for individuals perpetuating mistreatment, and supportive mental health resources. The article introduces A MATTER OF TIME, a project intended to support mental health and contribute to a more positive and compassionate generation of physicians.
Actant Models of Kazakh Anthroponyms-Composites with Substantive and Verb Components
Authors: Temirgazina Zifa , Abisheva Gulnara , Aselderova Rumaniyat
Published: September 2024

The Kazakh anthroponymicon during its centuries-old history did not experience serious pressure from religious and state institutions and therefore is characterized by a high degree of non-formalization. It has preserved the ancient traditions of naming, which are based on cultural and gender stereotypes: firstly, the preference for the birth of a male baby; and secondly, the birth of a boy child that is considered as a gift of higher sacred powers. This article explores a group of male anthroponyms formed as a result of the addition of substantive forms and the verbs tuu ‘to be born’, kelu ‘to come’, and beru ‘to give’. They retain syntactic relations that go back to the original sentence: propositional semantics and actant models. Complex two-part anthroponyms belong to polypropositive structures; the primary proposition for all of them is the proposition ‘A child was born’. Further, depending on the semantics and valency of the verbal component, there are situations of a reward, a birth time with different actants. In the surface structure of the anthroponym, depending on the relevance for those who give the name, in addition to the predicate, actants of various types are verbalized, such as agent, patient, and donor. In addition to the dictum content, the considered names include modal meanings: an evaluative mode, intention, which are expressed implicitly. Names-wishes and names-thanksgiving are distinguished depending on the intention.
Book Review
Authors: Duncan Daniel
Published: September 2024

Place Names: Approaches and Perspectives in Toponymy and Toponomastics. By Francesco Perono Cacciafo and Francesco Cavallaro. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. 2023. Pp. 298. (Paperback) $34.99. ISBN 13: 978-1-108-74824-7.
Note on the UK Local BMD
Authors: Bush Stephen J.
Published: September 2024

Data from the UK Local BMD, a volunteer project to transcribe the birth, marriage and death records of England and Wales, is a rare onomastic resource, being one of the few public datasets to contain full names. However, it has yet to be presented in a form amenable to large-scale analysis. This article processes 25,213,860 birth and 9,887,244 death records—collectively representing 204,427 names across 289 years–into a resource for community use. The data are presented alongside a number of summary statistics and both internal and external validation of its integrity. The data, along with the code used to generate it, are available at http://www.github.com/sjbush/uk_bmd for non-commercial research purposes.
Book Review
Authors: Alphey T.K.
Published: September 2024

Names and Naming in Beowulf: Studies in Heroic Narrative Tradition. By Philip A. Shaw. London: Bloomsbury Academic. 2020. Pp. 228 (Paperback). £28.99. ISBN 13: 9781350211674.
IMPLEMENTASI METODE SIMPLE ADDITIVE WEIGHTING UNTUK MENURUNKAN JUMLAH BALITA STUNTING DI POSYANDU DAHLIA 10
Authors: M.F Silvi Aulia , Naripana Fielita Trisra , Alanwari Muhammad Dzulfikri
Published: September 2024

Stunting merupakan kondisi terhambatnya pertumbuhan fisik dan perkembangan otak pada balita menjadi masalah kesehatan yang serius di Indonesia. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mencari faktor penyebab terbesar kejadian stunting pada balita di Posyandu Dahlia 10 menggunakan metode Simple Additive Weighting (SAW) agar mendapatkan solusi untuk menurunkan jumlah balita stunting yang sempat naik pada bulai Mei 2024 di Posyandu Dahlia 10. Dalam pengukuran metode SAW ini diambil sampel data yakni 7 balita yang terkena stunting dengan 12 kriteria. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukan bahwa kurangnya pengetahuan ibu mengenai gizi seimbang merupakan faktor penyebab terbesar kejadian stunting di Posyandu Dahlia 10. Oleh karena itu, mengadakan edukasi dan intervensi terkait pengetahuan mengenai gizi seimbang merupakan solusi yang paling tepat untuk menurunkan jumlah balita stunting di Posyandu Dahlia 10.
PERANCANGAN IMPLEMENTASI ENERGI TERBARUKAN DAN PENGATURAN IOT PADA KELISTIKAN DESA TERPENCIL
Authors: Agus Wibowo
Published: September 2024

Listrik merupakan kebutuhan pokok manusia saat ini. namun tidak ada listrik on-grid yang tersambung ke desa terpencil. Warga desa mencoba mengatasi sendiri berdasarkan pengetahuan dan kemampuan yang terbatas. Peneliti terpanggil untuk memberikan solusi, bagaimana warga desa mendapatkan listrik off-grid secara berkelanjutan.  Peneliti harus datang untuk meneliti ketersediaan sumber energi lokal terbarukan, seperti tenaga surya, mikrohidro, dan tenaga angin yang dapat diubah menjadi tenaga listrik. Solusi ini akan menjadi solusi yang lebih baik bagi desa terpencil. Juga dapat menjadi contoh bagi desa-desa lainnya. Energi terbarukan yang berbasis pada sumber daya alam sekitar merupakan sebuah pemikiran yang baik. Layanan berkelanjutan dapat diperoleh dengan menggabungkan sumber daya. Pengontrol IoT diimplementasikan untuk mengatur berbagai energi listrik, yang akan menghasilkan tenaga listrik yang berkualitas dan stabil, namun tetap irit dan efisien. Penggunaan energi terbarukan secara off-grid adalah solusi tercepat. biayanya lebih rendah dibandingkan dengan genset diesel karena pengoperasiannya lebih lama. Hal itu juga sebagai enegi ramah lingkungan yang terbebas dari polusi)
Implementação de políticas públicas educacionais: proposta metodológica para implantação de polos associados da Universidade Aberta do Brasil (UAB)
Authors: Batista Teixeira Aurilédia , da Silva Ramos Ivoneti , Oliveira Vieira Carlos Antonio
Published: September 2024

The Open University of Brazil – “UAB” is an integrated system of public universities offering distance learning higher education courses. To support these activities carried out by the UAB, are created face-to-face support centers. However, one of the biggest problems faced by managers is the lack of support tools for choosing, with objective criteria and in a transparent manner, the locations for installing new support centers. The objective of this work is to propose a methodology to support the decision-making process for the installation of UAB centers, in addition to contributing to the process of implementing public educational policies. The proposed model is based on multi-criteria analysis modelling to support decision-making process, using the method called Weighted Linear Combination – WLC. For the development of this model, the weights and criteria presented by Silva (2018) were used: resident population, households with a computer, households with internet, number of schools with high school levels and proximity to a public university hub. For validation of the proposed model, data from the works of Silva (2018) and Silva and Abreu (2019) were used, which reached exactly the same results. Thus, the model developed was applied in a scenario composed of five municipalities of Santa Catarina (Anita Garibaldi, São José do Cerrito, Bom Retiro, Urubici and Correia Pinto), where there are no IFSC in-class support poles. The results indicate that the municipality of Correia Pinto (27.43%) presented a better composition of criteria for installing a face-to-face support centers. Obviously, this methodology is not limited to applications for choosing educational centers, but can very easily be adapted and replicated for different areas of knowledge. Furthermore, this study brings new possibilities to the field of education for the implementation of the public policy investigated.