bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: The Impact of Advisory Services on Growth in Rubirizi District, Uganda
Authors:   School of Business and Management, Kampala International University, Western Campus Uganda, T. N. Ongesa, , A. Nyakundi, ,   School of Business and Management, Kampala International University, Western Campus Uganda
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the influence of advisory services on the growth of women entrepreneurship in Rubirizi District, Uganda. Drawing upon the resource-based theory, the research examines the extent to which advisory services provided by Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) affect women's entrepreneurial endeavors. Data was collected from a sample of 361 respondents using structured questionnaires and analyzed through descriptive statistics and linear regression analysis. The findings reveal a significant positive relationship between advisory services and the growth of women entrepreneurship, underscoring the importance of tailored support mechanisms for women-owned businesses. Recommendations include enhancing access to financial literacy and business management training, increasing awareness of advisory services, and fostering supportive networks for women entrepreneurs. Keywords: Entrepreneurship, Advisory Services, Growth, Village Savings, Loan Associations
Enhancing Public Interest Litigation for Human and Social Rights Justice in Uganda
Authors:   School of Law Kampala International University, Uganda, Miria Nangobi
Published: May 2024

This research critically examines the potential of public interest litigation (PIL) to advocate for access to human and social rights justice in Uganda. While the Constitution of Uganda upholds fundamental freedoms and human rights, PIL remains underutilized in the country. The study emphasizes the importance of PIL in providing socioeconomic justice to marginalized segments of society and highlights the role of competent public interest litigators in championing the rights of the disadvantaged. Additionally, it discusses the need for legislative amendments to facilitate easier access to PIL and calls for the appointment of morally upright judges to administer justice impartially. Drawing on international precedents and legal frameworks, the study underscores the significance of PIL in safeguarding collective liberties and advancing the rule of law. Keywords: Collective liberties, Constitution, Human rights justice, Lawsuits, Public interest litigation
A Comprehensive Review of the Impact of Perceived Power Sector Instability on Foreign Partnerships in the Nigerian Construction Industry
Authors:   Department of Civil Engineering, Kampala International University, Uganda., O. Ejiofor Nnadi Ezekiel , Okechukwu Justice ,   Department Quantity Surveying, Gregory University Uturu, Nigeria., Helen Nnadi .N. ,   The Builders Academy, Pocket Layout, Enugu, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

The study explores the impact of perceived instability in Nigeria's power sector on the construction industry. The emerging economy has seen significant growth, attracting foreign investments for infrastructural development. However, persistent challenges and perceived instability raise concerns about reliability and sustainability. Key factors include power outages frequency, power supply adequacy, and regulatory responsiveness. The study also examines the correlation between power sector stability and investment climate, considering factors like project delays, cost overruns, and financing impacts. The findings aim to contribute to a better understanding of the dynamics between perceived power sector instability and foreign investments in the construction industry and propose policy recommendations to foster a more sustainable and resilient investment environment. Keywords: Power Sector, perceived power Instability, Foreign Investment, Construction Industry, Infrastructure Development, Regulatory Framework.
Assessment of the Status of the Existing Solid Waste Collection, Transportation Disposal and Treatment Practices in Soroti District, Uganda
Authors:   Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Kampala  International University, Jacob Omoding , Luyiga Suzan ,   Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Kampala  International University
Published: May 2024

Municipal solid waste management has emerged as a significant concern in numerous regions, particularly with the escalating volume of waste generated daily due to population growth. This environmental issue is particularly acute in developing economies like Uganda. Consequently, a study was undertaken to assess the state of existing practices regarding solid waste collection, transportation, disposal, and treatment in Soroti District. Employing a cross-sectional survey design, data was gathered from 314 individuals, including employees, councilors, traders, and household members. Questionnaires, interviews, and observations were utilized for data collection, with informants selected through simple random and purposeful approaches. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was employed to analyze the data and formulate frequency percentage tables. The investigation revealed a myriad of challenges concerning solid waste management planning and organization. In Soroti Municipality, various methods are employed for collecting, transporting, and disposing of solid waste in designated sites. The study determined that private individuals and businesses operating within the municipality are primarily responsible for solid waste disposal, typically utilizing bags for collection. However, these methods were found to be largely inadequate in addressing current challenges, underscoring the necessity for improved and innovative waste management and monitoring strategies in Soroti, Uganda. Such measures are crucial for preventing disease outbreaks and associated public health issues. Keywords: Soroti Municipality, Solid waste, Population, Transportation, Disposal, Collection.
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Family Planning among Mothers attending Antenatal Care in Rural Uganda: Implications for Maternal Health and Population Growth
Authors:   Faculty of Clinical Medicine and Dentistry, Kampala International University Western Campus Uganda, Jonathan Kivumbi
Published: May 2024

Family planning remains a critical aspect of maternal health and population management in Uganda, particularly in rural areas. Despite concerted efforts to increase awareness and accessibility, utilization rates remain suboptimal. This descriptive cross-sectional study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of family planning among mothers attending antenatal care in Kyotera district, Uganda. A sample of 138 participants completed questionnaires, revealing a nuanced landscape: while overall knowledge of family planning was high (73.9%), a significant minority demonstrated poor understanding (26.1%). Similarly, though the majority exhibited positive attitudes towards family planning (71.0%), a substantial proportion held negative views (29.0%). Notably, 62.3% of mothers were not utilizing any family planning methods, despite 37.7% reporting usage, with injectable contraceptives being the most common (42.3%). These findings underscore the need for targeted education campaigns, enhanced service accessibility, and dispelling misconceptions to promote informed decision-making and uptake of family planning methods. Addressing these challenges is vital for improving maternal health outcomes and managing population growth in rural Uganda. Keywords: Family planning, Maternal health, Kyotera district, Rural Uganda, Antenatal care, Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices.
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Anaemia among Children Aged 6 to 59 Months: A Study at Kampala International University-Teaching Hospital
Authors:   Faculty of Clinical Medicine and Dentistry, Kampala International University Western Campus Uganda, Ruth Mugisha
Published: May 2024

The study aimed to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of anaemia among children aged 6 to 59 months attending Kampala International University-Teaching Hospital (KIU-TH). Anaemia remains a significant global public health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This study contributes to understanding the incidence of anaemia and its contributing factors in this specific population. The prevalence of anaemia among the studied children was found to be 29.6%, with 4.5% experiencing severe anaemia. This underscores the ongoing burden of anaemia in young children, despite efforts to address it. The study revealed various socio-demographic factors associated with anaemia. Children living in rural areas were twice as likely to develop anaemia compared to those in urban areas. Similarly, children whose caretakers were business operators had a higher likelihood of anaemia. Furthermore, medical and nutritional factors were strongly associated with anaemia. Children with a history of febrile illness or current chronic illnesses were more likely to develop anaemia. Additionally, malnutrition, particularly severe acute malnutrition (SAM) and moderate acute malnutrition (MAM), significantly increased the risk of anaemia. On the contrary, children with normal weight for height had a lower likelihood of developing anaemia. These findings highlight the multifactorial nature of anaemia in young children and the importance of addressing various determinants to mitigate its prevalence. Interventions should focus on improving access to healthcare services, including immunization and deworming programs, as well as addressing malnutrition through nutrition education and supplementation initiatives. Additionally, socioeconomic factors such as rural residence and caregiver occupation should be considered in developing targeted interventions. In conclusion, anaemia remains a prevalent issue among children attending KIU-TH, with various socio-demographic, medical, and nutritional factors influencing its occurrence. Comprehensive intervention strategies addressing these factors are essential to reduce the burden of anaemia and improve the health outcomes of young children in this setting. Further research and ongoing monitoring are necessary to assess the effectiveness of interventions and track changes in anaemia prevalence over time. Keywords: Children's anaemia, public health, and low- and middle-income nations
Supply and Demand Deconstructed
Authors: Fix Blair
Published: May 2024

Prices are caused by supply and demand, right? So say neoclassical economists. If you’ve bought their fairy tale, I recommend you watch the video below. In it, Jonathan Nitzan demolishes the neoclassical theory of prices. It’s a master lesson in how to deconstruct a theory. Here’s the 100-word summary.
Energy and the Size Distribution of Firms
Authors: Fix Blair
Published: May 2024

In this post, I’m going to return to the relation between energy and institution size. When we left off last time (in Groping in the Dark), I had described my struggle to understand how the size of firms and governments changes with energy use. It took me years of empirical muckraking to discover four stylized facts.
Tribalism in Science (and Economics)
Authors: Fix Blair
Published: May 2024

If you ask the average person what ‘science’ is, they’ll probably answer something like ‘it’s what we know about the world’. To the lay person, ‘science’ is a body of facts. To the trained scientist, however, ‘science’ means something different. It’s not a body of knowledge. It’s a  method  for determining what’s true and what’s not.
What Trait Affects Income the Most?
Authors: Fix Blair
Published: May 2024

If the history of science has taught us anything, it’s that we can’t trust our preconceptions about how the world works. All human societies have developed stories about their place in the cosmos. Almost without exception, these stories were wrong. True, we’ve killed many of the old myths. But the process was slow and excruciating. Humans have existed for hundreds of thousands of years.
The Brachiosaurus altithorax holotype FMNH PR 25107 in the ground
Authors: Taylor Mike
Published: May 2024

I was cleaning out my Downloads directory — which, even after my initial forays, still accounts for 11 Gb that I really need to reclaim from my perptually almost-full SSD. And I found this beautiful image under the filename  csgeo4028.jpeg  .  Brachiosaurus altithorax  holotype FMNH PR 25107 during excavation. The thing is, I have no idea where this image came from.
Black Cohosh Adulteration Laboratory Guidance Document
Authors:   American Botanical Council, GAFNER STEFAN
Published: May 2024

In recent years, adulteration of black cohosh roots and rhizomes (Actaea racemosa, Ranunculaceae) has become more apparent. Adulteration predominantly occurs with Chinese species of Actaea such as A. heracleifolia, A. dahurica, and A. cimicifuga (all known by the common name Chinese cimicifuga and by the Chinese name of sheng ma). Additionally, the Chinese cimicifuga (sheng ma) market is commonly adulterated with Serratula chinensis (guang dong sheng ma [Asteraceae]). Adulteration has also been reported with North American Actaea species growing in the same area as black cohosh, such as A. pachypoda, A. rubra, and A. podocarpa. This Laboratory Guidance Document presents a review of the various analytical technologies used to differentiate between authentic A. racemosa and its potentially adulterating species. The analytical methods were reviewed with the specific purpose of identifying strengths and limitations of the existing methods for differentiating A. racemosa from its potentially adulterating species. Analysts can use this review to help guide the appropriate choice of techniques for their specific black cohosh products for qualitative purposes. The recommendation of a specific method for testing A. racemosa materials in their particular matrix in this Laboratory Guidance Document does not reduce or remove the responsibility of laboratory personnel to demonstrate adequate method performance in their own laboratories.
Tinjauan Brand Monitoring terhadap Pemberitaan Motor Listrik Brand Alva
Authors: Rachel Nasywa Aurelia
Published: May 2024

The development of the automotive industry continues to grow rapidly and has modifications. The Alva One company is famous for producing electric motorbikes with one of the launches of its newest electric motorbike called Alva One XP. The popularity of Alva One brand products has encouraged the implementation of product monitoring or brand monitoring from news reports via the website. This research aims to see the level of positive sentiment, mentions and reach of the most influential websites. The research method was carried out by quantitative descriptive analysis and using a positivsm approach. Data collection is assisted by Brand24 application tools which focus on news website media. The research results illustrate the extent of positive sentiment received, the number of mentions and reach of the websites that have the most influence on reporting on the Alva One brand.
Apresentação
Authors: Barros Weiss Denise , de Castro Oliveira Domingos
Published: May 2024

A Revista Fios de Letras, em seu primeiro número, traz um conjunto de artigos que faz jus ao seu nome, que tece conversas sobre temas diversos dentro dos múltiplos interesses que constroem a área de Letras. São fios que correm paralelos ou que se atravessam, reunidos pelo interesse dos autores pela própria revista, pela sua vontade de contribuir para os estudos e de divulgar para as novas gerações autores clássicos dentro do pensamento do século XX, ou fomentar discussões acerca de temas candentes na nossa sociedade a partir de análise linguística.
Land, biological and economic evaluation of intercropping systems involving barley (Hordeum vulgare), Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) and chickpea (Cicer arietinum) under different spatial arrangements
Authors: BHAGAT SINGH  , A.K. DHAKA  , SATISH KUMAR  , SAMUNDER SINGH  , MUKESH KUMAR
Published: May 2024

A field experiment was conducted during the winter (rabi) seasons of 2011–12 and 2012–13 at Hisar, Haryana, in randomized block design with 9 treatments replicated thrice, to evaluate the intercropping of Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czernj & Cosson] and chickpea (Cicer arietinum) with barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) in re placement series. Results revealed that seed and straw yields of barley was reduced in barley + Indian mustard intercropping system as compared to barley + chickpea because Indian mustard was found to be more competi tive and dominant over barley, as evident from higher partial relative crowding coefficient (RCC), competitive ratio (CR), actual yield loss (AYL) and positive aggresivity (A) values of Indian mustard in all the planting patterns com pared to barley and chickpea. Among the intercropping treatments, barley + Indian mustard (6 : 3) was found most economical and efficient intercropping system with the highest barley-equivalent yield (BEY, 7.93 t/ha), land-use efficiency (LUE, 135%), area-time equivalent ratio (ATER, 1.34), land-equivalent ratio (LER, 1.36), land-euivalent coefficient (LEC, 0.44), crowding coefficient (K, 5.82), actual yield loss (AYL, + 1.10), intercropping advantages in dex (IAI, + 3624.3), monetary advantage index (MAI, + 17,975.4),  income-equivalent ratio (IER, 1.24), system productivity index (SPI, 65.4), relative net returns index (RNRI, 1.27), monetary-equivalent ratio (MER, 1.33), net returns ( 56,321/ha), benefit: cost rato (B:C, 3.41) and profit margin (71%). Among different row patterns, on the basis of total crop-performance ratio (CPR) values, barley intercropped with either of the intercrop at 6:3 row ratio performed better. Hence barley + Indian mustard (6:3) intercropping system can be a best option to get more mon etary returns and resource-use efficiency.
Effect of water regimes and weed-management practices on growth, yield and weed-control efficiency of rice under system of rice intensification
Authors: MANZOOR A. GANAI  , M. ANWAR BHAT  , ASHAQ HUSSIAN  , R.H. KANTH  , N.A. TELLI  , TALIB HUSSIAN  , AABID H. LONE  , TAUSEEF AHMAD
Published: May 2024

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) seasons of 2012 and 2013 at Khudwani, Jammu and Kashmir, to evaluate the effect of water regimes and weed-management practices on growth and yield of rice (Oryza sativa L.) grown on silty clay loam soil. The treatments comprised 3 irrigations schedules, viz. alternate wetting and drying (AWD), saturated conditions (SC) and continuous flooding (FL), and 7 weed-management op tions including 4 herbicidal treatments, viz. pyrazosulfuron ethyl @ 20 g/ha at 3 days after transplanting (DAT, W1 ); cyhalofop butyl @ 80 g/ha at 15 DAT (W2 ); pyrazosulfuron ethyl 20 g followed by (fb) cyhalofop butyl 80 g/ha at 3 and 15 DAT (W3 ); butachlor @ 1.5 kg/ha at 3 DAT (W4 ); 3 cono weeding at 15, 25 and 35 DAT (W5 ) along with weedy check (W6 ) and weed free (W7 ). The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with 3 replications under SRI. The data revealed that significant higher growth parameters like leaf-area index (LAI), dry-matter accumula tion and tillers/plant and yield attributes, i.e. panicle length, panicles/m2, grains/panicle, panicle weight, grains/ panicles, 1,000-grain weight, and higher grain yield were recorded in saturated water regime. On an average a yield superiority of 2.2 and 5.8% was recorded by saturated water regime over AWD and continuous flooding. Among the herbicides tested, pyrazosulfuron-ethyl @ 20 g/ha (3 DAT) fb cyhalofop-butyl @ 80 g/ha (15 DAT) re sulted in significantly higher panicle length, panicles/m2, panicle weight, grains/panicles, 1,000-grain weight and higher grain yield comparable to the weedy check. The mean yield advantage recorded by the use of pyrazosulfuron-ethyl fb cyhalofop-butyl was 19.3, 14.0 and 10.3% over cyhalofop-butyl, cono-weeding and butachlor, respectively, during both the years of experimentation.
Brown manuring in maize (Zea mays): Effects on weed interference and crop productivity
Authors: BISWARANJAN BEHERA  , T.K. DAS  , SOURAV GHOSH  , R. KAUR  , R. SINGH
Published: May 2024

A field experiment was undertaken during rainy (kharif) season 2017 at ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi to study the effects of brown manuring on weeds and maize (Zea mays L.) productivity. Season-long weed infestation (~unweeded control) resulted in the highest reduction (~41%) in grain yield of maize. Among the brown manuring (BM) treatments, growing of 1:1 mixture of Sesbania bispinosa (12.5 kg seed/ha) + Crotalaria juncea L. (12.5 kg seed/ha) supplemented with 2,4-D 0.5 kg/ha applied at 35 DAS, resulted in the highest reduction in weed density (~93%) and dry matter (~94.4%). This BM, in these regards, was comparable with the atrazine + hand weeding (HW) at 35 days after sowing (DAS) and weed-free control treatments. All BM treatments suppressed noxious weed Cyperus rotundus, which was poorly or not controlled by the recommended tank-mixture of atrazine and pendimethalin. Weed-free control resulted in the highest values of maize plant dry-matter (~210.6 g/plant), cob weight (~155.9 g/cob), and grain yield (~6.0 t/ha). The atrazine + HW, Sesbania + Crotalaria (12.5 + 12.5 kg/ha) mixture applied with 2,4-D 0.5 kg/ha at 25 DAS, Sesbania 25 kg/ha with 2,4-D 0.5 kg/ha at 25 DAS, and pendimethalin 0.75 kg/ha + atrazine 0.75 kg/ha treatments were comparable with weed-free control on maize grain yield.
RANCANG BANGUN SISTEM PENDETEKSI KEBOCORAN GAS (LPG) MENGGUNAKAN SENSOR MQ2 BERBASIS MIKROKONTROLER (ARDUINO UNO)
Authors: Malo Stepanus , Sabaora Yohanes Lepa , Rama Arsana Prasada I Gusti Ngurah , Baeng Gregorius , Kristian Aloysius Anugerah
Published: May 2024

Gas LPG adalah produk alami yang tidak dapat didaur ulang. Dengan kata lain, singkatan LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) kini menjadi sangat penting bagi kelangsungan hidup manusia, baik di rumah maupun di industri. Selain harganya yang terjangkau, gas LPG memiliki proses pengaplikasian yang mudah. Adanya berita kebakaran akibat ledakan tabung gas membuat sebagian masyarakat menjadi was-was dalam menggunakan LPG, khususnya tabung 3kg. Berdasarkan latar belakang tersebut, penulis ingin mengembangkan sistem kontrol pendeteksi gas cair yang berhubungan dengan layar notifikasi. Notifikasi tersebut menggunakan program Arduino sebagai pengendali, sensor gas MQ-2 sebagai sensor utama, dan LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) sebagai display. Dari hasil pengujian dan sistem pengoperasian alat pendeteksi kebocoran gas LPG, peneliti dapat menarik kesimpulan sebagai beriku: (1) Alat ini berfungsi jika tabung gas mengalami kebocoran. Apabila tegangan keluaran sensor melebihi 13 milivolt maka akan memberikan peringatan berupa alarm, LED akan menyala dan keadaan dapat ditampilkan pada LCD. (2) Jika tegangan keluaran sensor kurang dari 13 milivolt maka tabung gas tergolong aman, namun jika tegangan keluaran sensor 13 milivolt atau lebih maka tergolong berbahaya dengan jarak jangkauan maksimal 40 cm
Influence of Computer Aided Instruction (CAI) on Students Learning Performance in Physical Education
Authors: Zuo Tian , Aquino Jet
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the influence of Computer-Aided Instruction (CAI) on student learning and performance in college physical education. Analyzing cognitive understanding, knowledge retention, skill development, engagement, and adaptability, the study identified specific components of CAI affecting outcomes. Challenges faced by teachers during CAI integration were explored, and a strategic plan for effective implementation was proposed. The research employed a quantitative descriptive design, focusing on Shijiazhuang Information Engineering Vocational College with 669 student respondents.
It was found that learners and teachers expressed satisfaction with CAI's adaptive learning pathways, interactive simulations, and progress tracking, indicating its value in enhancing the learning experience, CAI in Physical Education was well-received, demonstrating effectiveness in providing an engaging and enriching educational approach, the integration of CAI positively impacted cognitive understanding, memory retention, and bridging theoretical and practical knowledge in physical education, challenges included limited technical proficiency, insufficient training, access to reliable technology, time constraints, and content customization difficulties, learners coped by seeking assistance, independent exploration, using online resources, adapting learning strategies, and engaging in collaborative work and a proposed course of action addressed challenges through targeted workshops, comprehensive training, infrastructure upgrades, flexible scheduling, and adaptive content development.
CAI significantly influences physical education learning, with positive outcomes in engagement, understanding, and performance. Challenges identified underscore the need for tailored interventions. The proposed strategies offer a comprehensive plan for effective CAI utilization, fostering a supportive and technologically equipped learning environment.
In conclusion, Computer-Aided Instruction (CAI) significantly influences physical education learning, yielding positive outcomes in engagement, understanding, and performance; the identified challenges underscore the imperative for tailored interventions, and the proposed strategies offer a comprehensive plan for effective CAI utilization, fostering a supportive and technologically equipped learning environment; therefore, educational institutions should implement targeted interventions to enhance CAI integration, teaching faculty should adapt teaching strategies and undergo continuous professional development, IT departments should guide infrastructure upgrades and support initiatives for a reliable technological environment, students should actively engage in seeking assistance, independent exploration, and utilizing online resources, and future researchers should build on identified challenges and coping strategies to explore emerging technologies and assess long-term impacts of CAI in educational settings.
Research results and recommendations for universally unique identifiers in product data standards
Authors: Trainer Asa G , Feeney Allison Barnard , Astheimer Rosemary , Hardwick Martin , Hedlind Mikael
Published: May 2024

In the model-based enterprise (MBE) paradigm, enterprises are fueled by the digital thread, an authoritative, integrated information flow that connects all phases of the product life cycle. The digital thread enables use of data-driven processes to build knowledge, make decisions, manage requirements, and control manufacturing execution. As information about a product moves through the supply chain, different systems consume or modify that information for a variety of reasons. Associating persistent and universally uniqueidentifiers, in combination with human-readable identifiers, to key engineering requirements enables the enterprise to track all information related to that requirement over the life of the product. Neither widely-used product data standards nor commercial engineering software adequately support universally unique identifiers (UUIDs). This is a major roadblock to realizing the promises of the digital thread and model-based enterprise. This paper presents current support for UUIDs in digital thread standards, use cases and requirements for UUIDs in the product life cycle, research results, and finally, makes recommendations for use of universal identifiers in commonly used product data standards.
Access control on NoSQL databases
Authors: Hu Vincent C
Published: May 2024

NoSQL database systems and data stores often outperform traditional
RDBMS in various aspects, such as data analysis efficiency, system performance, ease
of deployment, flexibility/scalability of data management, and users’ availability.
However, with an increasing number of people storing sensitive data in NoSQL
databases, security issues have become critical concerns. NoSQL databases suffer
from vulnerabilities, particularly due to the lack of effective support for data
protection, including weak authorization mechanisms. As access control is a
fundamental data protection requirement of any database management system DBMS, this
document focuses on access control on NoSQL database systems.
A WIDE SPECTRUM OF HEXAGON EIGHTH MODE SUBSTRATE FOR C, S AND X BAND APPLICATIONS
Authors: Anbumani Sivabalan , Palanisamy Jothilakshmi
Published: May 2024

The following article explains how to make a basic ultra-wide bandwidth (UBW) wearable fractal antenna. The antenna is printed on denim fabric with a dielectric constant of 1.7 and a loss tangent of 0.02. The suggested antenna is 45 x 44.92 x 0.5 mm3. The antenna is fed by an inserted microstrip line with a decreased ground structure. It operates at ultrawide band frequencies of 4.36 GHz to 11.12 GHz. The antenna offers an omnidirectional radiation pattern with a gain of more than 2.4 dBi across the entire working band... It achieves a bandwidth of 6767 MHz. The proposed antenna possesses key characteristics such as a simple structure, ease of fabrication, stable omnidirectional radiation pattern, reasonable gain, and directivity, which make it suitable for applications in the C, S, and X bands.
Keywords: Textile antenna, UWB, denim fabric, flexible antenna, denim substrate
PROPOSAL FOR A GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS (GIS) BASED ANALYSIS OF SOCIAL VULNERABILITY TO AIR QUALITY: APPLICATION IN VITORIA-GASTEIZ
Authors: HERRANZ PASCUAL KARMELE , YURREBASO MACAZAGA LEXURI , SIMON MORAL ANDRES , PADRO HERNANDEZ ALES , ZORRAQUINO SALVO PALOMA , ALONSO LOPEZ ANDRES
Published: May 2024

Despite the fact that air pollution is one of the main environmental concerns in Europe, causing more than 400,000 premature deaths each year, and affecting certain groups in particular, there are no known specific analyses of the social vulnerability of this pollutant that would allow us to guide policies to improve air quality in the different municipalities. For this reason, a first approximation of an analysis of social vulnerability to air quality has been developed to guide municipal policies in this area. The proposal proposes a zonal analysis of exposure in GIS in which the modelled information on air pollution is cross-referenced with the location of buildings housing the main vulnerable groups. The buildings have been classified according to the type of vulnerable population using them and their degree of vulnerability. The results indicate that this proposal allows a visual and simple identification of the levels of air pollution to which each sensitive building is exposed, facilitating the possible identification of those with levels higher than the current legislation or the recommendations of the WHO. Based on the exposure on the façade of the buildings, the proposal presented allows four levels of severity with respect to air pollution to be established, establishing the first steps of a prioritisation of improvement needs. This first prioritisation can be adjusted according to the type of population housed in each sensitive building and the vulnerability of the groups it houses. The proposed GIS-based social vulnerability analysis is particularly interesting when available resources are scarce, but it must be complemented by detailed analyses of the social vulnerability of the prioritised sensitive buildings before the implementation of improvement actions.

Keywords: urban planning, social vulnerability, social vulnerability, air quality, GIS, modelling
STRESS DIAGNOSIS IN LAYING HENS SUPPORTED BY FUZZY INFERENCE SYSTEMS
Authors: PANIAGUA MEDINA JUAN JOSE , Camargo Carmona Sarahí , GUZMAN CHAVEZ ANA DINORA , Vargas Rodríguez Everardo
Published: May 2024

Different factors can induce biological stress in laying hens, which affects their state of health or comfort. This consequently impacts the volumes and quality of egg production, as stressed hens may lay smaller and lighter eggs.
BENCHMARKING ANALYSIS FOR BIOLOGICAL-BASED METAHEURISTICS
Authors: García González Enol , VILLAR FLECHA JOSÉ RAMÓN , SEDANO FRANCO JAVIER , CHIRA CAMELIA
Published: May 2024

This article reviews the metaheuristics published in the literature, emphasizing their usefulness in solving complex optimization problems. The review highlights inspiration's relevance in the metaheuristics design, being the main classification in multiple taxonomies existing in the literature.
After reviewing the state of the art, six of the most relevant metaheuristics used to solve problems of various types (engineering, logistics, economics, data science, ...) were selected. This selection of metaheuristics will be subjected to an analysis of their performance using a set of problems selected from different authors. The problems selected for this analysis include problems with a single minimum or multiple minima, different sizes in terms of dimensions, and different types of mathematical functions such as polynomial, trigonometric, or exponential. The analysis offers a discussion of which scenarios are the best for each metaheuristic, analyzing aspects such as the ability of metaheuristics to explore and escape local minima. The article concludes by summarizing which metaheuristic is best for each type of problem.

Keywords: Metaheuristics, benchmark, optimization problems, biological-based metaheuristics
ANALYSIS OF ASYMMETRIC PLASTIC BENDING DEFORMATION OF WELDED TUBE SHEETS AND DERIVATION OF A DAMAGE LAW FOR J SHAPE-C SHAPE -O SHAPE FORMING
Authors: ZHANG JI , SUN KAI
Published: May 2024

The J shape-C shape -O shape (JCO) forming method of sheets for large-diameter longitudinally welded pipes has been widely used to manufacture oil and gas pipelines. The quality of welded pipes formed through the JCO process is directly affected by the accurate control of asymmetric bending springback and damage during the procedure. A finite element model (FEM) for JCO asymmetric bending was constructed to investigate the characteristics of asymmetric plastic bending deformation and the distribution laws of damage in JCO forming. This model was based on a nonlinear mixed hardening Lemaitre damage model coupled with the Quasi-Plastic-Elastic (QPE) model. Then, residual stress, forming shape, and damage degree of crimping, first bending, second bending, and third bending were analyzed. Moreover, the accuracy of the model was experimentally verified. Results demonstrate that, the asymmetric bending deformation process can be divided into five stages, including rigid body rotation phase, full elastic deformation phase, elastic–plastic uncladded deformation phase, elastic–plastic cladded phase, and springback phase. In the first bending, the stress centerline significantly misaligns with the mold centerline. Asymmetry is not evident in the second and third bending stages. Furthermore, the peak residual stress and peak damage can be effectively reduced by a larger punch radius, while the peak damage can be reduced by a larger die span. This study lays a foundation for optimizing the technical parameters of JCO forming.

Keywords: JCO forming, asymmetric bending, finite element, QPE model, deformation characteristics
A UTILIZAÇÃO DAS REDES SOCIAIS POR MENORES E A NECESSIDADE DE REGULAMENTAÇÃO ESPECÍFICA
Authors: Almeida França Júlia , Martins Silva Rocha Jakeline
Published: May 2024

O presente artigo tem por objetivo analisar a crescente utilização de redes sociais por crianças e adolescentes e compreender a urgência de regulamentação específica para proteção dessa faixa etária. A relevância desta pesquisa consiste na abordagem realizada sobre os riscos associados ao acesso precoce de menores em plataformas digitais, sendo destacado as consequências que essa utilização pode ocasionar na vida pessoal desse público específico e a necessidade de conscientização da população em relação à este tema. Além disso, a pesquisa apresenta uma análise sobre a responsabilidade civil dos tutores frente a exposição excessiva de menores à redes sociais, sendo enfatizado a importância de políticas públicas e leis específicas que garantam a segurança e privacidade desse público. Ademais, a pesquisa também realiza uma abordagem jurídica sobre o princípio da vulnerabilidade e a sua relação à proteção de menores, bem como propõe diretrizes para uma regulamentação eficaz, considerando tanto os direitos das crianças, quanto as responsabilidades das plataformas e dos tutores legais. Além disso, através do resultado do material científico é possível notar as lacunas na legislação brasileira em relação à falta de leis específicas sobre a utilização das redes sociais por crianças e adolescentes, ressaltando que a elaboração de normas concretas para proteção dos menores no ambiente digital seria extramamente importante. O tema foi abordado por meio de um método hipotético-dedutivo, pautado em uma abordagem qualitativa, utilizando legislações vigentes, citações doutrinárias e obras relevantes sobre o assunto.
HATERS NAS SOMBRAS
Authors: Do Vale Oliveira Igor , Porto Silva Taís
Published: May 2024

O estudo tem como objetivo versar sobre o crime cibernético, abordando especificamente as pessoas conhecidas como “haters”. Tendo e vista que a falta de compreensão por parte de muitos do que pode ser considerado sério é agravada pela sensação de impunidade. Ademais, o fato de esse tipo de “hater” ser capaz de disseminar ódio rapidamente pela internet, torna-o ainda mais perigoso. Portanto, deve-se enfatizar a prioridade em construir uma fronteira entre discurso de “true hate” e liberdade de expressão válida. Nesse sentido, a pesquisa destacou a urgência em aprimorar a legislação vigente e fortalecer as ferramentas de investigação e punição relativas aos criminosos cibernéticos, sobretudo aos “haters”. Ainda, ressaltou-se sobre a importância da conscientização acerca dos aspectos legais e prejudicais da fala de ódio no espaço virtual. Sendo possível concluir que não é garantida a segurança no ambiente virtual devido à falta de legislação específica do Brasil.
QUALIFICAÇÃO DA ASSISTÊNCIA DE ENFERMAGEM A GESTANTES COM PRÉ-ECLÂMPSIA
Authors: Rodrigues Lisboa Heloisa , Raphaela Ferreira Duarte  , Aianne Carolina Pego Silva
Published: May 2024

A pré-eclâmpsia é uma condição médica grave que afeta mulheres grávidas em todo o mundo, representando uma das principais causas de morbidade e mortalidade materna e perinatal. A qualidade da assistência de enfermagem desempenha um papel crucial no manejo eficaz dessa condição e na promoção de desfechos positivos para mães e bebês. O foco da presente pesquisa girou em torno da qualidade da assistência de enfermagem prestada às pacientes da maternidade com histórico de pré-eclâmpsia, distúrbio que pode se desenvolver após a vigésima semana de gestação e continuar durante o parto e até 48 horas pós-parto. Certos sintomas podem atuar como indicadores desta condição, incluindo: Perda intensa de peso, náuseas e vômitos estão entre os diversos sintomas que podem ser observados durante o parto. O profissional deve estar bem preparado para monitorar esses sintomas, principalmente a presença de edema na face, ao redor dos olhos e nas mãos. Ao reconhecer e compreender estes sinais, os profissionais de saúde podem proporcionar às grávidas a confiança, segurança e assistência de qualidade necessárias. Este artigo científico explora a importância da qualificação da assistência de enfermagem na gestão da pré-eclâmpsia, destacando as intervenções e práticas de enfermagem essenciais para o cuidado seguro e eficaz das gestantes afetadas.
Phytochemical screening and evaluation of the anti-venom effect of leaves extracts of Vitex negundo
Authors: Dinesh Jindal  , Raghvendra S. Bhadauria
Published: May 2024

The number of snake envenomation cases is estimated to be more than 5 million per year. Out of these cases, approximately 1,00,000 individuals experience severe complications. The objective of the current research is to investigate the effectiveness of local plant extracts from the western ghats of India in countering snake venom.  The medicinal plant Vitex negundo has been traditionally used by healers in India to treat snakebite victims. Prior to injection, extract from the Vitex negundo   plant was incubated at 37°C for 30 minutes. The study revealed that doses ranging from 0.15-0.17 mg of Vitex negundo   extracts completely neutralized the lethal effects of V. russelli venom, while doses of 0.16-0.19 mg neutralized the lethal effects of Najanaja venom. In rats, the minimum edematic dose of the venom was found to be 4μg. Notably, significant inflammation was observed 1 hour after venom injection, with maximum inflammation occurring at 180 minutes. Furthermore, plant extracts administered at doses of 100mg/kg, 200mg/kg, and 400mg/kg exhibited significant activity compared to the control group. The minimum percentage inhibition was 29.13% and 27.1% at 100mg/kg, 58.18% and 57.21% at 240 minutes for 400mg/kg, and 60.89% for Vitex negundo   with standard polyvalent antivenom. against V. Russelli and Najanaja venom, respectively.
Suicidal attempt in a patient with gambling disorder: A rare case report
Authors: Shehu SN  , Gado HU  , Abioda DI  , Adebayo AS  , Abubakar A
Published: May 2024

Background: Gambling disorder is characterized by a compulsive, repetitive and maladaptive pattern of gambling that results in significant distress. It is now classified into the “Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders'' group in the 5th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Some participants do present with psychiatric complications ranging from mood, substance use, abnormal personality traits and even suicidality. This comorbidities complicates both presentation and treatment.
Methods: In this report, we presented a case of a 32 year old civil servant who presented with repeated engagement in online sport gambling with ensuing accrued debts, strained interpersonal relationships, depressive symptoms and subsequent suicidal attempt by hanging himself in a closed room at night. This was a rare case of pathological gambling that was complicated by a severe depressive episode and suicidal attempt with a fatal means (hanging) in a patient with family history of gambling and psychotic illness.
Conclusion: Pathological gambling is an addictive behavior with far reaching consequences such as mood disorders, suicidal behaviors and subsequent affectation of functioning of the individuals involved. Early detection and prompt intervention is essential to prevent further complications.
Recurrent subdural hemorrhages and evaluation of annual prostate screening
Authors: Iheanacho J  , Uwanuruochi K
Published: May 2024

We report a 76-year old man who had cerebellar hemorrhage and recurrent subdural hematoma. Investigations revealed that these were metastases from cancer of the prostate. We discuss the need for annual prostate cancer assessment in our environment
Key Message: The indications for annual examination of the prostatic specific antigen in elderly men should be appreciated.
Strategi Self Reward dalam Meningkatkan Prestasi Belajar Siswa Tingkat Sekolah Menengah Atas
Authors: Aftian Nur Oktavia  , Desy Safitri  , Sujarwo
Published: May 2024

Self-reward is used as a sign of appreciation and reward for individuals for the efforts that have been passed before. High school kids' self-rewarding can play a significant part in piquing their interest in learning. Giving appreciation to oneself or doing self-reward needs to be done by some students because by doing self-reward students can give appreciation for the endeavors undertaken and feel happy to be able to maintain mental health. This research uses the literature review research method. This study adopts a qualitative methodology, as well as the methods for data analysis used are those that include content analysis. This research is also used in three actions: data gathering, reducing, presenting, and making conclusions. This investigation concludes that the use of the self-reward strategy is important for students to develop learning achievement. Additionally, self-reward can foster learning motivation among students.
PROTECTIVE CAPACITY ASSESSMENT OF A SHALLOW AQUIFERAT THE EASTERN PART OF ADO-EKITI, SOUTHWESTERN NIGERIA
Authors: Olaseeni O , Aroyehun M , Odeleye O , Tsado J , Lawan E , Ajayi A
Published: May 2024

Vertical Electrical Soundings (VES) survey has been undertaken at the eastern part of Ado-Ekiti, southwestern Nigeria to assessthe aquifer protective capacity of the overburden units of the area. The Schlumberger electrode array was adopted with a maximumcurrent electrode spread (AB) of 300 m.Thirty-six(36) VES points wasoccupied and processed through a partial curve matching technique and 1-D forward modelingcomputer-assistedsoftware.The interpretation revealed H, A, KH and HA-type curves and threemajor geoelectric layers overlying the resistive basement. The groundwater potential and overburden protective capacity maps were prepared. The groundwater in the area was categorized into high, medium and low groundwater potential zones. About 80% of thestudy area falls within the moderate/low groundwater potential zone while the remaining 20% constituted the high groundwater potential zone (Agric Olope area). Hence, thegroundwater potential rating of other areas is considered to be low. The values of longitudinal conductance (ranging from 0.01 to 2.01 mhos) of the area enabled the overburden units to be rated into good, moderate and weakprotective capacity. About 75% of the area falls within the good/moderate rating while 25% constitutes the weak/poorprotective capacity rating (Agric Olope area), suggesting that the groundwater around Agric Olope isvulnerable to contamination.
Moderating role of Gender on Work Engagement, Task Performance and Organizational Citizenship behavior in Indian IT Sector
Authors: Honnamane Preeti S. , Sreekanth K , G P Girish
Published: May 2024

Understanding multifaceted association of relationships among Work Engagement, Task Performance and Organizational Citizenship behavior (OCBI, OCBO) and moderating influence of gender is crucial for organizations determined to encourage inclusive and dynamic work environments. By reformatory gender-related discrepancies within these realms, Organizations have capacity to advocate for equity, inclusivity and employee welfare thereby cultivating heightened levels of work engagement and organizational accomplishment. In this study we investigate Moderating role of Gender on Work Engagement, Task Performance and Organizational Citizenship behavior in Indian IT Sector. Primary data from 208 Indian IT staff was collected and PLS-SEM was used for analysis. The study found that while gender alone may not wield substantial impact on organizational results, the interplay between gender and work engagement assumes significance in sculpting Organizational Citizenship Behavior.