bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FUNCTIONALITY OF TWO-COAT SYSTEM FOR CONCRETE PROTECTION AND REPAIR
Authors: Pavlik Zbysek , Pivak Adam , Pavlikova Milena
Published: December 2024

This paper presents the experimental evaluation of the effectiveness of a newly developed two-coat system (TCS) for the protection and repair of concrete. The optimized system consists of a penetrating layer of modified low-viscosity resin of BPA (bisphenol A) type and a top coat based on aliphatic polyisocyanate resin of HDI (hexametyl diisocyanate) type. TCS was applied to reference concrete specimens, which were subjected to various tests to evaluate their basic physical properties, mechanical strength, hygric properties, freeze-thaw resistance and resistance to de-icing salts. The application of TCS reduced the porosity, enhanced the freeze-thaw resistance, and greatly decreased the water absorption coefficient and 24-h water absorption. The treated specimens exhibited high resistance to de-icing salt even up to 125 testing cycles. Taking into consideration the fact that the control samples without any surface modification were completely cracked by coupled salt crystallization and freeze-thaw action, the improvement in the properties of treated concrete was quite substantial and promising for full-scale application on construction sites.
IMMOBILISATION OF HEAVY METALS IN FLY ASH-DIATOMITE MODIFIED MAGNESIA CEMENT COMPOSITE
Authors: Pivak Adam , Pavlikova Milena , Zaleska Martina , Nabelkova Jana , Pavlik Zbysek
Published: December 2024

Every day, human activities generate large amounts of solid waste. To ensure the quality of the environment, waste must be further treated to prevent it from accumulation in landfills. In the case of materials that cannot be recycled or reused, such as municipal solid waste, burning in waste incineration plants to generate heat or electricity appears to be the appropriate solution of such waste disposal. However, combustion processes generate residues, such as bottom or fly ash, which must be stored. Fly ash generally contains heavy metals and other contaminants. If it is disposed in landfills, the contained substances may pollute the environment with dust, leach into the soil, and contaminate the groundwater. Therefore, it is important to find an alternative way to dispose fly ash, such as incorporation into building materials, which must provide sufficient and save immobilisation of heavy metals. The objective of the presented research was to utilize fly ash from waste incineration plant and diatomaceous earth in magnesia-based composites in the form of microfillers. The investigation focused on the determination of the material properties of the hardened composites with emphasis on the ability to immobilise heavy metals. Incorporation of fly ash and diatomaceous earth resulted in increased porosity and water absorption. The mechanical strength was also affected and reduced by the incorporation of both microfillers. On the other hand, the immobilisation test showed that the heavy metals contained in the fly ash were safely immobilised in the material and thus they are not able to be further released into the environment. In this way, hazardous waste can be safely treated and reused, and the amount of waste in landfills can be reduced.
EVOLUTION AND DISTRIBUTION OF GREEN COVER AND ITS INFLUENCE ON URBAN PLANNING, THE CASE OF THE HISTORIC CENTRE OF LOJA, ECUADOR
Authors: Sandra Valarezo-Jaramillo , Eduardo Aguirre-Maldonado , Cristian Balcazar-Arciniega , Lorena Alvarado-Rodriguez
Published: December 2024

Changes in land use and architectural renovation are a normal process in historic urban centres, and as a consequence there are changes in the occupation of properties, such as the loss of vegetation cover and filtering soils that could be integrated into the urban green system, which is now almost entirely concentrated in the public space. In this study, a series of orthophotographs of the historic centre of the city of Loja were analysed to determine the changes in vegetation cover and its distribution among squares, parks and private properties. The study puts into context the way in which the city has modified the extent of green cover throughout its modern history. An analysis of aerial imagery was carried out using a pixel classification technique to determine the proportion of area per pixel analysed, and maps were produced to study the distribution of urban greenery in the study area and compare its radius of influence in each period studied. The results show how the historic centre is becoming detached from the urban green system, reducing the presence of green cover on private properties and concentrating on the public space of squares and parks in the centre. This study also explores strategies to protect and increase the distribution of green areas, which can contribute to the reduction of environmental problems in the city.
PROSPECT AND PROVOCATION OF SUSTAINABLE LUNAR ACTIVITIES
Authors: Prunariu Dumitru-Dorin , Tulbure Ildiko
Published: December 2024

Technological advance has assured humanity�s desire to increase its quality of life, anyway humanity is currently confronted with several global challenges, their complexity bases on their interconnectedness, and on fast changes in technological field. Present space activities are directed to explore the potential of diverse celestial bodies to have hosted life. In this context the Moon Village Association, MVA has as its main objective creating a global informal forum for governments, industry, academia for debating the Moon Village concept. MVA fosters cooperation for existing or planned global moon exploration programs by establishing the Global Expert Group on Sustainable Lunar Activities, GEGSLA. On a global level the United Nations Office for Outer Space Activities, UNOOSA, through its Committee, Policy, and Legal Affairs Section, CPLA provides main support to the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, UN-COPUOS. By the delegation of Romania, COPUOS has recently prepared a Proposal on a Consultative Mechanism on Lunar Activities, stating that lunar missions will for sure be carried out soon through efforts of space agencies and commercial stakeholders. In this context COPUOS is emphasizing the need to preserve the peaceful use of outer space by starting a new era of sustainable space exploration. This vision is urging global cooperation for shaping sustainable lunar activities, an Action Team on Lunar Activities Consultation, ATLAC, being proposed by the first author of this contribution. Therefore, some technical and operational issues are debated, which could be faced by lunar operators, being brought into debates by ATLAC with the goal of ensuring sustainable lunar activities.
Coinfección por virus de inmunodeficiencia humana y tuberculosis activa en pacientes del Hospital de Infectología Dr. José Daniel Rodríguez Maridueña
Authors: Cevallos-García Andrea Lilibeth , Merchán-Villafuerte Karina Maricela , Cherrez-Paredes Irene Camila
Published: December 2024

La coinfección por tuberculosis y virus de inmunodeficiencia humana representa una de las principales problemáticas de salud pública, asociada al incremento de fallecimientos a nivel mundial. El objetivo de la investigación fue analizar la coinfección por virus de inmunodeficiencia humana y tuberculosis activa en pacientes del Hospital de Infectología Dr. José Daniel Rodríguez Maridueña, enero a diciembre del 2023. Se utilizó una metodología observacional, cuantitativa, retrospectiva y transversal, con una muestra de 185 pacientes y se utilizó una ficha de recolección de datos. Entre los resultados se obtuvo que la frecuencia de tuberculosis activa en pacientes con virus de inmunodeficiencia humana fue de 185 casos (51,9%), con mayor reporta en el mes de febrero con 22 casos (11,9%); en las características clínicas de los pacientes coinfectados se reportó el predominio de tos productiva (29,7%) y fiebre (25,4%); y se comprobó la relación del resultado de la prueba TB LAM Ag con los niveles de carga viral (CD4+) con un p valor= 0,002. Se concluyó que la prueba TB LAM Ag resulta útil para el diagnóstico de tuberculosis en pacientes con virus de inmunodeficiencia humana.
Immunohistochemical Expression of COX2 in Urothelial Carcinoma of the urinary bladder
Authors:   M.B.Ch.B,SHO of Histopathology in Rizgary Teaching Hospital, trainee of KHCMS, Erbil city., Omer Shayan Khattab , Jalal Jalal Ali ,   M.B.Ch.B, MSc, FIBMS, Consultant Histopathologist in Rizgary Teaching Hospital, Professor in Hawler Medical University- College of Medicine, Erbil, Othman Zheen ,   M.B.Ch.B, KHCMS, Consultant histopathologist at Hawler Medical University- College of Medicine, Erbil
Published: December 2024

Background and objectives: Urothelial carcinoma of urinary bladder constitutes 90% of bladder cancer cases. Cyclo-oxygenase 2 as an immune-histochemical marker, is not expressed in normal tissues, while it is expressed in some cancers including urothelial carcinoma. The purpose of this study is detecting the frequency of expression of Cyclo-oxygenase 2 in urinary bladder’s urothelial carcinoma in association with certain clinicopathological variables.

Methods: A retrospective study was done on seventy-nine cases (fixed with formalin and embedded in paraffin) of urothelial carcinoma which were chosen haphazardly from a private laboratory in Erbil city over two years (between October 2019 to October 2021). In the present study, Cyclo-oxygenase 2 expression was assessed on the urothelial carcinoma slides.

Results: Cyclo-oxygenase 2 was positive in 45.6% of the cases. It was positive in 80% of non-papillary tumors, while it was less expressed (40.6%) in papillary tumors, which means that significant correlation was seen between Cyclo-oxygenase 2 positivity and tumor pattern (papillary vs non-papillary) (p = 0.037). In this study, no important association was found between Cyclo-oxygenase 2 expression and other clinicopathologic features like age (p=0.236), gender (p=517), tumor grade (p=0.106), lymphovascular invasion (p=0.696) and T stage (p=0.061).

Conclusion: In this study Cyclo-oxygenase 2 was expressed in less than half of our urothelial tumor samples. A strong association was found between Cyclo-oxygenase 2 positivity and tumor pattern (papillary and non-papillary), but no important association was found between Cyclo-oxygenase 2 positivity and other variables such as age, gender, tumor grade, lymphovascular invasion and tumor stage.
Comparison of Outcomes between Marsupialization and Lay-Open Techniques in the Management of Pilonidal Sinus
Authors:   MBCHB, FRCSI, DLS, Assistant Professor at Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Sulaimani, Sulaimaniyah, Iraq., Ali-Ghalib Hawar , Ameen Shorsh Hama Hussein ,   MBCHB, FIKBMS surgery, Lecturer at Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Sulaimani, Sulaimaniyah, Iraq, Hussein Hussein Ali ,   KHCMS Board Trainee, General Surgery Board Trainee, Sulaimani Teaching Hospital, Sulaimaniyah, Iraq
Published: December 2024

Background and objectives: Different surgical strategies emerged for pilonidal disease, but no ideal one. Thus, this study aimed to compare the outcomes of marsupialization vs laying open techniques in the management of pilonidal sinus.

Methods: This case series study was conducted on 200 consecutive patients with chronic pilonidal sinus who has operated either with excision and marsupialization technique (Group 1, no.=100) or excision and lay-open technique (Group 2, no.=100) in different hospitals at Sulaimaniyah city, Iraq, from January 2012 to January 2022. The patients' socio-demographics, perioperative data, complications and recurrences were collected using a special questionnaire prepared for this study. Also, the patient’s data was evaluated after surgery regarding postoperative pain, satisfaction, healing and dressing time, incapacity to work and postoperative complications.

Results: Most patients aged 20-29 years (40.5%), males (71.5%), had working hours for ?6 hours (57%), with no family history of pilonidal disease (86.0%), presented with pain (44.83%), and with hirsutism (41.5%). In total, 39.5% of the patients had severe pain, 38% had moderate, and 22.5% had mild (p=0.000). Concerning patient postoperative satisfaction, most patients (32.5%) had good and least had excellent (6.0%) satisfaction (p=0.000). Moreover, for the association between the outcomes of both used techniques, a substantial correlation between both groups was found for incapacity for regular daily activity (p=0.046), healing time (p=0.000), dressing time (p=0.000), infection, dehiscence, bleeding and recurrence (p=0.045).

Conclusions: Marsupialization was the preferred technique over lay-open regarding postoperative patient satisfaction/severity, healing duration, and dressing time, as it had fewer complications with a recurrence rate.
Attitude and Knowledge of Participating Couples Towards the Premarital Hemoglobinopathy Screening Program in Duhok–Iraq.
Authors:   MBChB, Mohammed Sediq Rebeen Abdulsalam ,   Senior House Officer, Department of Hematology, Azadi Teaching Hospital, Duhok, KRG, Iraq, Sulaiman Salar Ayoub ,   MBCHB, MSc, FIBMS; Lecturer, College of Health Sciences, Department of medical laboratory sciences, University of Duhok, KRG, Iraq, Al-Allawi Nasir ,   MBChB, MSc, PhD, FRCPath; Professor of Haematology, Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Duhok, Duhok, KRG, Iraq
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives: The premarital screening program for hemoglobinopathies was initiated in the Kurdistan region nearly 15 years ago. In the current study we aimed to assess the attitude and knowledge of the targeted couples, since these are among the main determinants of its success.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study we recruited consecutive 1100 couples attending premarital screening center in Duhok-Iraq between November 2022 and March 2023. The participants had their demographic data collected, and attitude towards the premarital screen was assessed. A subgroup was further scrutinized on their knowledge on the program and hemoglobinopathies.

Results: While 99.8% of enrollees considered premarital screen important, only 10.5% choose to abandon their marriage plans if they were identified as couples-at-risk. Of those proceeding with marriage, 94% wanted to do testing to determine whether their babies are affected, yet only 5.7% would consider aborting it, citing religious or cultural prohibition. In the subset where knowledge was assessed, it was found that only 6% and 20% had good knowledge as it related to hemoglobinopathies and premarital program respectively. There was a significant association between positive attitude and knowledge (p=0.019).

Conclusions: The current study underscores the barriers facing the successful implementation of the premarital program and the serious knowledge gaps among the public about it. The need to introduce targeted educational initiatives to better inform the public of their choices is paramount.
Human resource management practices and employees’ job satisfaction in public hospitals in Erbil City
Authors:   MBChB, Health Administration Trainee in KHCMS, Ministry of Health, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq, Mohamad Hoshiar Yassin , Saleh Abubakir Majeed ,   MBChB, MSc, PhD, Professor of Community Medicine, Department of Quality Assurance, College of Medicine, Hawler Medical University, Erbli, Iraq
Published: December 2024

Background and objectives: Employees’ jobs satisfaction is the term most widely used and researched in field of management and organization behavior. This study aimed to explore the influence of human resource management practices on employees’ job satisfaction in public hospitals in Erbil city.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out at public hospitals in Erbil city, Iraq, between January 2023 and September 2023. A sample of 405 employees was chosen using a convenience sampling method. A designed questionnaire was used to measure employees’ job satisfaction and to assess the impact of human resource management practices, including rewards and incentives, training and development, and employee relations, on job satisfaction among these employees.

Results: Employees in the administrative and technical departments reported higher satisfaction compared to medical departments, P<0.001 and 0.0483, respectively. Moreover, the research found that an increase in rewards and incentives was connected to greater job satisfaction, as was the belief that the rewards system served as motivation for employees (r=0.17, P<0.001) and financial rewards are the most important ones to motivate employees (r=0.11, P=0.0331). Employees expressed greater satisfaction when training programs were consistently conducted (r=0.24; P<0.001), training programs were relevant to the needs of the hospital (r=0.23, P<0.001), and when they perceived their coworkers as cooperative (r=0.38, P<0.001).

Conclusion: The study revealed there is a significant impact of human resource management practices on employees’ job satisfaction in public hospitals in Erbil City.
Association of Neutrophil – to- Lymphocyte ratio as an inflammatory marker in patients with primary Osteoarthritis of the hands
Authors:   MBChB, Student of Kurdistan Higher Council for Medical Specialties, Department of Rheumatology, Rizgary Teaching Hospital, Erbil – Iraq, Mohammed Amin Shna Abdulmajeed , Al-Rawi Ziad Shafeeq ,   Professor of Rheumatology, MBChB (Baghdad), F.R.C. P (London), D.Phy.Med (London) College of Medicine, University of Baghdad, Iraq
Published: December 2024

Background and objectives: Hand osteoarthritis is a common joint disease that causes pain and functional impairment. Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio is a novel marker, it can be used for evaluating inflammatory activity in chronic inflammatory disorders. The aim of the study is to evaluate the relationship of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio in patients with primary osteoarthritis of the hands.

Patients and methods: This case-control research was carried out in the Rheumatology department of Rizgary Teaching Hospital from March 2022 to March 2023. It included fifty patients who fulfilled the American College of Rheumatology criteria for diagnosis of hand osteoarthritis and fifty healthy controls matched in sex, age, and body mass index. laboratory investigations including (CBC, ESR, CRP) were collected. Values of Neutrophil to Lymphocyte ratio were measured for both groups. Secondary causes of osteoarthritis were excluded.

Results: No significant difference was detected between the two groups in neutrophils (p= 0.495), lymphocytes (p=1.000), and CRP (p =1.000). The differences were significant (p=0.025) in ESR which was higher among patients in comparison to controls. The median of Neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio was higher in patients compared to control, but insignificantly (P=0.311). Moreover, seven patients had a high Neutrophil-Lymphocyte ratio as compared with only 3 individuals in the control group, again insignificantly (P = 0.182).

Conclusion: The current study did not find Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio to be a reliable indicator of inflammation in the settings of primary osteoarthritis of the hands.
Evaluating Deep Learning Models for Website Phishing Attack Detection: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Raji Egigogo Abdullahi , Ismaila Idris  , Olalere Morufu , Opeyemi Aderiike Abisoye
Published: December 2024

Phishing attacks remain a significant security threat in cyberspace, targeting individuals and businesses to steal confidential information. Traditional detection methods often struggle to identify newly created or altered phishing sites, highlighting the need for more adaptive solutions. This study evaluates the performance of various deep learning (DL) models for detecting online phishing attacks. A comparative analysis of single and hybrid DL models, including CNN, LSTM, BiGRU, and their combinations, is conducted. The evaluation is based on metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score, derived from 17 peer-reviewed publications published between 2019 and 2024. Results indicate that hybrid models, particularly ODAE-WPDC, exhibit superior performance, achieving accuracy rates of up to 99.28% and robust results across all metrics. Single models, such as CNN and BiGRU, also demonstrate strong performance, with accuracy ranging from 97% to 99.5%. This research underscores the efficacy of deep learning architectures in phishing detection and offers practical guidance for selecting optimal models based on specific requirements.
Public Room Door Locking System Using Wireless Technology and Internet of Things
Authors: Mahmud Mustapa  , Irwan  , Ummiati Rahmah  , Akbar Iskandar  , Ahmed J. Obaid
Published: December 2024

Enhancing the efficiency and security of public spaces has become increasingly important, leading to the development of an automatic door lock system utilizing wireless technology and the Internet of Things (IoT). This study aims to design and implement a smart door lock system that provides automated control and improves convenience in managing public room access. The research methodology involves programming the ESP32 microcontroller, integrating IoT applications, and conducting various testing methods. These include manual control through physical switches, automated control via the Sinric Pro platform, and Wi-Fi hotspot-based control using the ESP32 module. Comprehensive hardware and software testing was carried out to ensure system reliability and functionality. The results indicate that the proposed system enables seamless control of public room doors through multiple methods, including an Android-based application and Wi-Fi connectivity. By leveraging IoT technology, the system offers a user-friendly, efficient, and secure solution for managing public space access, addressing modern requirements for convenience and safety.
The Epidemic of Torture and the Mendacity of the Nigerian Torture Act, 2017
Authors: Onuegbulam Maria Chigozie , Asogwah Frank
Published: December 2024

The prevalence of torture, cruel, and other inhuman and degrading treatment on crime suspects in Nigeria and around the globe is alarming and gradually returning humanity to a barbaric state.  It is an affront to the dignity of the human person, truncating several international and domestic laws against torture.  Nigeria ratified and domesticated the United Nations Treaty against Torture in 2001. Recently, the Nigerian government enacted the Anti-Torture Act 2017, prohibiting torture as a means of extracting information from suspects. It is petrifying that notwithstanding international and domestic laws against torture, the Nigerian government, its security operatives, and other security outfits are brazenly basking in the ugly culture of perpetrating various acts of torture on citizens. This article aims to showcase the government and its security agents as central and major actors in the effective prohibition and prevention of torture in Nigeria. The objective is to bring to the limelight the futility of international conventions on torture and the Act 2017 without implementation and government cooperation. The research adopts doctrinal designs using an analytical approach. This article opines that there is a need for government and security agents’ collaboration in the effort to curb the reign of torture in Nigeria. Our finding is that without a committed resolve by government and security actors to stop the use of torture as a crime-solving tool in Nigeria, the Anti Torture Act 2017 will remain a façade and there may be no end to torture and violation of the rights of suspects in Nigeria.
A hybrid hw-rfr forecasting model: case of moroccan pharmaceutical sector
Authors: ATWANI Mariam , HLYAL Mustapha , EL ALAMI Jamila
Published: December 2024

Sales forecasting is an essential element of effective supply chain management, particularly in the pharmaceutical sector where continuous availability of drugs is crucial. This article examines sales forecasts for fluoxetine, an antidepressant available on the Moroccan market under six trade names and 14 different forms. The main objective of this study is to compare the effectiveness of four forecasting models, namely Prophet Facebook, ARIMA, GRU and Holt-Winters through their accuracy, and to propose a hybrid model that will contribute to improving the accuracy of demand forecasts. Each model was applied individually to predict future sales, and evaluated using MAPE, MAE and RMSE metrics. Next, a hybrid model, integrating Holt-Winters and Random Forest Regressor methods, was developed to leverage the robustness of traditional models while improving predictive performance through machine learning techniques. The results of the study show that traditional models, such as ARIMA and Holt-Winters, offer a solid basis for sales forecasting. However, the hybrid HW-RFR (Holt-Winters Random Forest Regressor) model stands out for a significant improvement in forecast accuracy, demonstrating great robustness to fluctuations in fluoxetine demand. This article highlights the potential of hybrid models for forecasting pharmaceutical sales. The improved forecast accuracy achieved with the HW-RFR model provides stakeholders with more reliable information, enabling them to make informed decisions to optimize pharmaceutical supply chain management
Advances in serological and molecular methods for the diagnosis of latent tuberculosis
Authors: Alban-Balseca Jessy Marianela , Galárraga-Pérez Edison Arturo
Published: December 2024

Introduction: tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious pathology of bacterial origin that is transmitted mainly by air. This disease is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) and its main area of involvement is the lungs. Clinically, tuberculosis can manifest itself from a non-communicable and asymptomatic latent infection (LTBI) to a highly transmissible active disease. An essential aspect to obtain adequate control of the disease is the detection and diagnosis of both infectious and active cases, in order to interrupt the chain of TB transmission.Objectives: to evaluate the usefulness, efficacy and clinical accuracy of the serological and molecular methods currently used to detect latent tuberculosis.Methods: a bibliographic review was carried out using the PRISMA method. Clinical studies and systematic reviews were included, highlighting those with relevant information on the diagnostic advances used in laboratories for the detection of TB.Results: currently, the interferon gamma release assay (IGRA) and the tuberculin skin test (TST) are used to establish the diagnosis of TB. However, molecular tests such as GeneXpert MTB/RIF, LAMP, PCR have revolutionized the diagnosis of active tuberculosis by offering significant advances in terms of speed, accuracy and accessibility.Conclusions: tests for the diagnosis of tuberculosis include different traditional techniques such as microscopy and culture, as well as innovative molecular and immunodiagnostic tests. However, each of these strategies has its strengths and limitations, so this topic remains a necessary area of research to achieve the eradication of the disease
Social network analysis using open-source software: the most used terms in Spanish during the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Juica Martinez Paola , Peña Silva Raúl , Zañartu Reyes Jaime , Roco-Videla Angel , Carstens  Vasquez Chestin , Rios Colmenares Maria Janeth
Published: December 2024

Introduction: communication on social media is a reflection of the behavioral patterns of a society, allowing us to understand its community structure. The objective of this research was to identify the most used terms on social media during the COVID-19 pandemic in five Spanish-speaking countries to identify their social patterns.Method: a descriptive and quantitative approach was used, using web scraping techniques to collect 31 353 Facebook comments between July 2017 and July 2022. Through Data Wrangling and Text Mining methods, the data was processed by removing irrelevant words and applying lexical analysis using the POS Tagging technique. Five countries were selected: Spain, Colombia, Mexico, Peru, and Chile, to compare term frequencies.Results: the results revealed that the most recurrent terms were "bono", "delivery" and "distancing" in Peru, while "cuarentena", "bono" and "teletrabajo" dominated in Chile. The term “bono” was observed to be especially relevant in Peru and Chile, while the anglicism “delivery” was concentrated in Peru. In addition, a significant variation was noted in the use of terms before and after the pandemic.Conclusions: the analysis of terms on social media during the pandemic reveals significant patterns in social communication. Terms such as “quarantine” and “teleworking” not only emerged during confinement, but their use persisted, indicating a cultural change. This study demonstrates that social media is a valuable tool to understand community dynamics and the social impact of global events such as the pandemic.
Developing a Framework for Electoral Education Among Students with a Focus on Vulnerability
Authors: Zulkifli Zuliana Azwa , Mokhtar Mokhtafizam , Mohd Zain Zawiyah
Published: December 2024

The Undi18 bill, lowering the voting age from 21 to 18, marked a significant step in Malaysia's democratic evolution. However, the political maturity of young voters and their vulnerability to external pressures remain major concerns. This study explores university students' perceptions of general elections, their views on the Undi18 legislation, and their political awareness in the lead-up to Malaysia’s 15th general election. Through a mixed-methods approach—combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews—this research highlights the need for a structured electoral education framework to mitigate the vulnerabilities of young voters. Findings suggest that while most students show strong awareness and engagement, many are still vulnerable to political influences and societal expectations. This study proposes educational strategies to bolster political literacy and protect student voters from manipulation
Ameliorating Students’ Cognitive Engagement and Critical Thinking in Chemistry: Testing the Potency of Practical-Based and Discussion-Based Approaches
Authors: Ajayi Victor Oluwatosin , Achimugu Lawrence , Audu Christina Tanko
Published: December 2024

This research investigated if either Practical-Based Approach (PBA) or Discussion-Based Approach (DBA) could be more effective in ameliorating students’ cognitive engagement and critical thinking ability in Chemistry. The study adopted a quasi-experimental research design. Chemistry Cognitive Engagement Inventory (CCEI) and Critical Thinking Ability Test (CTAT) were the instruments used for data collection. The reliability index of CCEI was ascertained using Cronbach Alpha, which gave reliability value of 0.86. The internal consistency of CTAT was tested using Kuder-Richardson (KR-21) formula which yielded a reliability value of 0.92. The population is 6,837 SS2 students offering chemistry in SSS in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. Using multi-stage sampling techniques, a sample of 166 students drawn from 4 schools in Dekina LGA was selected. Two research questions and four null hypotheses guided the study. The research questions were answered using Mean and Standard Deviation scores while the null hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance using results from Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA). The study revealed that, the difference in the cognitive engagement and critical thinking ability of students taught chemistry using PBA and those taught using DBA was statistically significant in favour of PBA respectively {F1, 165 =138.100, P<0.05} {F1, 165 =188.900, P<0.05}. There is no significant interaction effect of approaches and gender on the cognitive engagement and critical thinking ability of students in chemistry respectively {F1, 165 =1.765, P>0.05} {F1, 165 =5.005, P>0.05}. It was recommended among others that; Chemistry teachers should be encouraged to use PBA during chemistry instruction to ameliorate students’ cognitive engagement and critical thinking ability.
Literature Review on Salary Management Research in Chinese Vocational Colleges
Authors: Liao Hongyun
Published: December 2024

By reviewing the literature on salary management in Chinese vocational colleges in recent years, it is found that the research topics of salary management in Chinese vocational colleges in recent years mainly focus on basic theoretical research, current situation and problems, optimization strategies, information construction, non-economic incentives, fairness and incentives, as well as the limitations of existing research. Summarized the shortcomings of current research on salary management in Chinese vocational colleges, and finally identified areas for further research in the future. This comprehensive review can provide strong theoretical support and practical guidance for the in-depth development and research of salary management in Chinese vocational colleges and promote the continuous construction of the university teaching staff to a new level.
Exploring the Potential Application of Chinese I Ching Philosophy in Guiding the Formulation and Implementation of National Sustainability Policies
Authors: Xu Meiling
Published: December 2024

This paper examines the relevance of applying the Chinese I Ching philosophy when developing and employing national sustainability policies. Using multiple perspectives in the study context, the author analyses how the guiding principles of the I Ching, including ‘harmony’, ‘flexibility’, and ‘holistic thinking’, effectively address modern sustainability issues. In this paper, the literature review examines the benefits and challenges of incorporating traditional knowledge in policymaking while comparing case studies to successful policy implementations. Possible applications of introducing the I Ching philosophy into the tenets of national sustainability are considered in terms of system transformation. Due to these realistic considerations deriving from the sociotechnical matrix formed by human beings and natural environments, I Ching-based policies could contribute to long-term resilience, equity, and environmental sustainability in the global society.
Sistemas RFID como alternativa de seguridad para transportes de carga en México
Authors: Hernández Domínguez Carmin , Guevara Franco Alicia , Flores Ortega Ma. Isabel , Hernández Meneses Karina Dafne
Published: December 2024

La seguridad en el transporte de mercancía es una preocupación crítica para el ámbito empresarial y la economía nacional, debido a que los incidentes aumentan los costos operacionales e impactan en la eficiencia de los procesos. Esta investigación analiza los incidentes que surgen en México sobre la inseguridad en el transporte de las mercancías y propone una solución mediante la implementación de tecnología de radiofrecuencia sobre los contenedores de mercancía, restringiendo el acceso solo a los usuarios responsables del transporte, para disminuir robos y detectar irregularidades. El estudio es cuantitativo con un enfoque descriptivo y utiliza un modelo de regresión lineal para predecir la efectividad del RFID como herramienta de seguridad para los transportes de carga en México. Además, se presenta el diseño e implementación de un dispositivo de seguridad RFID a escala el cual permite el acceso a la mercancía de acuerdo a tarjetas de identificación únicas para cada unidad. Los impactos identificados son: económico, al reducir pérdidas monetarias y mejorar la rentabilidad y la eficiencia operativa que contribuye a un crecimiento económico sostenible; social, al mejorar la seguridad en el transporte de mercancías, fortalecer las economías locales y promover un entorno más seguro y estable; y tecnológico, al fomentar entornos de trabajo más seguros, prevenir accidentes y minimizar riesgos. La implementación de sistemas de seguridad RFID otorga un impacto positivo para las empresas lo que se traduce como mejoras en la eficiencia de la distribución de mercancías y origina entornos menos peligrosos para los involucrados en esta actividad.
Hubungan Aktivitas Fisik, Konsumsi Rokok, Konsumsi Lemak dan Literasi Kesehatan dengan Derajat Hipertensi
Authors: Azizah Syah Putri  , Izza Suraya
Published: December 2024

Hypertension is still a problem that occurs in the community. According to data from the North Larangan Health Center, hypertension ranks first in non-communicable disease health problems with a prevalence of hypertension in 2022 of 34%. This study aims to determine the relationship between physical activity, cigarette consumption, fat consumption and health literacy with the degree of hypertension in the North Larangan Health Center in 2023. This type of research is analytic quantitative research using a cross sectional study design. The population in this study were patients with hypertension at the North Larangan Health Center, Tangerang City. The sample was selected using purposive sampling technique with a total sample size of 115 respondents. Data collection was carried out during April - May 2023 by interview method using a questionnaire instrument. Data were analyzed univariately and bivariate with the Chi-Square test. The results of univariate analysis showed that most respondents with grade II hypertension (50.4%), age ≥45 years (58.3%), male gender (53%), less physical activity (58.3%), smoking consumption (39.1%), high fat consumption (60%) and not enough health literacy (50.4%). The results of bivariate analysis showed a variable relationship between physical activity (p-value=0.030), cigarette consumption (p-value=0.027), fat consumption (p-value<0.001), and health literacy (p-value<0.001) with the degree of hypertension. This it can be concluded that there is a relationship between physical activity, cigarette consumption, fat consumption and health literacy with the degree of hypertension in hypertensive patients at the North Larangan Health Center in 2023. It is expected that people with hypertension can carry out physical activity habits, avoid smoking habits, reduce high fat consumption and know information and understand health literacy for themselves.
Metode–Metode Inovatif Dalam Pembelajaran
Authors: Zuhdiah Zuhdiah , Yuspiani Yuspiani , Damopolii Muljono
Published: December 2024

Pembelajaran merupakan proses kompleks yang melibatkan interaksi antara guru dan peserta didik untuk mencapai tujuan pendidikan yang telah ditetapkan. Metode pembelajaran memegang peranan penting dalam menentukan efektivitas pembelajaran dengan meningkatkan pemahaman, keterlibatan, dan menciptakan suasana belajar yang kondusif. Setiap metode pembelajaran memiliki karakteristik, keunggulan, dan kelemahan yang dapat disesuaikan dengan tujuan pembelajaran, jenis materi, dan kondisi belajar. Pemilihan metode yang tepat merupakan tantangan bagi guru yang harus mempertimbangkan berbagai faktor seperti kemampuan peserta didik, penguasaan metode guru, dan kondisi lingkungan belajar. Pengetahuan yang mendalam tentang metode pembelajaran membantu guru dalam meningkatkan efektivitas pembelajaran dan membimbing peserta didik mencapai tujuan pendidikan secara optimal. Makalah ini mengkaji berbagai metode pembelajaran yang inovatif dengan fokus pada karakteristik, kelebihan, dan kekurangannya, dengan harapan memberikan wawasan yang lebih baik bagi praktisi pendidikan dalam memilih dan menerapkan metode pembelajaran yang sesuai.
O ATENDIMENTO A CRIANÇAS E ADOLESCENTES EM SITUAÇÃO DE RUA EM NATAL/RN
Authors: Costa Oliveira Maria Luiza , Lemos de Paiva Ilana
Published: December 2024

O trabalho visa a analisar a política de atendimento a crianças e adolescentes em situação de rua, desde a promulgação do Estatuto da Criança e do Adolescente, em Natal-RN. Para isso, utilizou-se do método histórico, na perspectiva da história oral temática, e realizaram-se entrevistas semiestruturadas com dois profissionais de cada um dos seguintes serviços: Movimento Nacional de Meninos e Meninas de Rua, Programa Canteiros, Serviço Especializado em Abordagem Social e Consultório na Rua. Estes dois últimos são os únicos em vigor no Município atualmente. Observou-se que, a despeito de históricas atuações violadoras do Poder Público, o “Terceiro Setor”, em determinado momento, surgiu como importante articulador de direitos para essa população. Hoje, os serviços governamentais existentes possibilitam ações garantidoras de direitos, apesar dos desafios impostos.
Protótipo para detecção e alerta de trabalhadores em uma zona de perigo
Authors: da Silva Lucas Rodrigues , Matrakas Miguel Diogenes , Bussador Alessandra
Published: December 2024

Acidentes de trabalho são uma preocupação constante em ambientes industriais, impactando negativamente a saúde dos trabalhadores, as empresas e a sociedade em geral. Este trabalho propõe um protótipo que utiliza inteligência artificial e visão computacional para detectar e alertar trabalhadores em zonas de perigo, contribuindo para a prevenção de acidentes. O protótipo será desenvolvido para detectar trabalhadores próximos a um braço robótico Motoman em um ambiente fabril simulado. Utilizando a rede neural convolucional YOLO integrada à biblioteca OpenCV, o sistema identifica e localiza pessoas em tempo real dentro de uma área de risco definida ao redor da máquina. A metodologia adotada combina pesquisa bibliográfica, coleta de dados audiovisuais e simulação em maquete.
Intergenerationale Betreuung von älteren Menschen mit Demenz
Authors: Eckhardt Annalena
Published: December 2024

Can caring communities address the crisis in health and care? Annalena Eckhardt analyses the practices and models of caring communities. These aim to improve the quality of life of people with dementia through intergenerational support. In a comprehensive literature review, the author analyses the social, emotional and practical aspects of intergenerational care models, including intercultural aspects. She concludes that people with dementia can benefit greatly from social participation and autonomy within communities, but that obstacles such as idealised assumptions and barriers to access still need to be overcome.
SGB II und SGB XII für Studium und Praxis (Bd. 2/3)
Authors: Grosse Michael , Weber Dirk , Wesemann Michael
Published: December 2024

Im zweiten Band werden die Hilfe zum Lebensunterhalt, die Grundsicherung im Alter und bei Erwerbsminderung, die Mischfälle und Hilfen nach dem 5. bis 9. Kapitel SGB XII sowie die Träger der Sozialhilfe behandelt. Die 15. Auflage aktualisiert u. a. die Abschnitte zur Hilfe zur Pflege sowie zum Nachrangprinzip und berücksichtigt neue Rechtsprechung und Einkommensvorschriften. Das Werk orientiert sich an den Erfordernissen der Praxis und ist daher für Mitarbeiter:innen der Leistungsträger, Beratungsstellen und Verbände, Rechtsanwält:innen sowie Richter:innen an den Sozialgerichten geeignet. Studierenden dient es als Grundlage, um Ansprüche sicher einzuordnen und zu bewerten. Die Autoren geben Hilfestellung zur Vorbereitung auf Leistungsnachweise im Rahmen der Ausbildung. Praktische Übungen und umfassende Musterlösungen einschließlich zahlreicher Beispiele aus der Praxis unterstützen dabei. Michael Grosse und Dirk Weber sind Dozenten an der Hochschule für Polizei und öffentliche Verwaltung NRW (HSPV NRW) mit dem Schwerpunkt Sozialrecht. Michael Wesemann ist Mitarbeiter des Kreises Lippe und dort in der Fachaufsichtsstelle tätig.
Alfred Landecker
Authors: Prosinger Annette
Published: December 2024

Alfred Landeckers Leben veranschaulicht das Schicksal der damals überwiegenden Mehrheit der jüdischen Menschen im Deutschland des 20. Jahrhunderts Von der ostpreußischen Provinz in die Industriestadt im Südwesten des Landes: Es war ein weiter Sprung, zu dem sich Alfred Landecker kurz vor Beginn des Ersten Weltkriegs entschloss. Aufgewachsen in einer kinderreichen jüdischen Familie, die im Dorf Nordenburg eine Speditionsfirma betrieb, verlässt der junge Alfred die Region und zieht ins badische Mannheim. Nach Jahren an der Westfront arbeitet er als Prokurist in einer Eisenmaschinenfabrik, lernt seine katholische Frau Maria Geßner kennen und gründet eine Familie. Dann stirbt Maria 1928. Die Verfolgung durch die Nationalsozialisten bringt ihn und auch seine drei »halbjüdischen« Kinder in eine ausweglose Lage. 1942 wird Landecker mit dem Zug »nach dem Osten« deportiert und ermordet. Annette Prosinger zeichnet das Leben eines Mannes nach, der ein in jeder Hinsicht unauffälliges Leben führte: Alfred Landecker war keine berühmte Persönlichkeit des deutschen Judentums, keine Person des öffentlichen Lebens. Was Alfred Landecker während der NS-Zeit in Mannheim widerfuhr, veranschaulicht vielmehr die Ausgrenzung und Verfolgung, der die überwiegende Mehrheit der jüdischen Menschen damals in Deutschland ausgesetzt war.
Recent Advances in Quantum Biosensing Technologies
Authors: Tafadzwa Mpofu Kelvin , Mthunzi-Kufa Patience
Published: December 2024

Recent advances in biosensing technologies have revolutionized the field of biomedical diagnostics and environmental monitoring. This chapter reviews cutting-edge developments in quantum sensing and quantum biosensing, with examples including diamond defect sensing and quantum plasmonic biosensing, among other novel methodologies. Diamond defect sensing, leveraging nitrogen-vacancy centers in diamond, offers unparalleled sensitivity and precision in detecting magnetic and electric fields at the nanoscale. Quantum plasmonic biosensing, combining the unique properties of plasmons and quantum mechanics, enhances sensitivity and specificity, enabling the detection of biomolecules at ultra-low concentrations. Additionally, advancements in other quantum biosensing technologies, such as quantum dot-based sensors and single-photon detection, will be discussed, highlighting their potential applications in real-time, high-resolution biosensing. These innovative approaches promise to significantly improve the accuracy, speed, and versatility of biosensing, paving the way for new diagnostic tools and environmental monitoring solutions. The chapter will delve into the principles behind these technologies, their current applications, and the future directions they may take, providing a comprehensive overview of the transformative impact of quantum biosensing on medical diagnostics and beyond.
Adaptation of the LoRa Transmission Protocol for a Low-Power Low-Cost Indoor Air Quality Monitoring System
Authors: Casha Owen , Meli Matthew , Gatt Edward , Grech Ivan , Micallef Joseph
Published: December 2024

Many state-of-the-art air quality sensor nodes feature a very high-power consumption. This limits them to being either mains powered or having a very short battery longevity. Moreover, a detailed study on their power consumption is not yet presented. Despite their high manufacturing cost, their accuracy and sensing functionality are often limited too. This chapter presents the design of an innovative low-power and low-cost air quality monitoring wireless sensor node with extensive measurement capabilities. The design adapts the LoRa transmission protocol by configuring and optimising the bandwidth and the spreading factor values. An optimal balance between data rate, range, and power was achieved. In addition to providing a thorough literature and market survey on available solutions, the work carried out on a scalable low-cost big data capture and analysis system is also discussed. The proposed sensor node can accurately measure carbon dioxide, volatile organic compounds, particulate matter, temperature, relative humidity, and atmospheric pressure. The device features an average energy consumption of 327 μAh and a 40-month autonomy with a 10,500 mAh battery. The low-cost factor enables the provision of a large-scale system. Multiple nodes, distributed across a university campus, provide extensive location-based data and LoRa metadata, which enable comprehensive data analysis.