bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Educators’ Perception of Artificial Intelligence as Instructional Tool
Authors: Sadykova Gulnara , Kayumova Albina
Published: December 2024

With artificial intelligence technologies disrupting status quo of many technologically advanced national economies, educators should face the challenge to harness their potentials without risks to learners. This exploratory mixed-method study aims to add to the growing volume of research that focuses on educators’ attitude towards AI, their views on its applicability in education and necessity to develop AI competences. The research involved 132 in-service and pre-service educators who completed a questionnaire; nine of the participants also took part in follow-up interviews. The results revealed that the majority of educators perceive AI as a promising and useful tool, albeit sometimes complex, risky and not very smart. Most educators report low level of competence and infrequent usage of AI but readiness to undergo training. The research findings speak for the urgent need to design and implement professional development and teacher training courses that debunk myths about AI and build practical skills for applying AI affordances in all levels of education.
Introducing Artificial Intelligence to Secondary Schools Through STEM Learning and the Logic Programming Language Prolog
Authors: Tabakova-Komsalova Veneta , Stoyanov Ivan , Cholakov George , Maglizhanova Magdalena
Published: December 2024

This article proposes a project aimed at introducing secondary school students to artificial intelligence and logic programming using the Prolog language. In commemoration of the 50th anniversary of Prolog’s development, the authors participate in the international initiative “Prolog Education and Thinking” through the “Digital Bulgaria in Prolog” activity, implemented in Bulgarian secondary schools. The article offers a concise overview of a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) educational program and training for secondary school students in Bulgaria. STEM serves as a project-based learning approach, fostering students’ understanding of multiple disciplines and utilizing diverse technologies to enhance their skills. Additionally, the article showcases examples of student initiatives spanning natural sciences, informatics, humanities, culture, and art, illustrating the interdisciplinary nature of STEM education.
Obstetricians’ Views for Reasons Decision-Making for Cesarean Section in Iran
Authors: Hantoosh Zadeh Sedigheh , Shariat Mamak , Mousavi Azam-Sadat , Sahebi Leyla , Moradi Raheleh , Farrokhzad Nahid
Published: December 2024

- By increasing trend of cesarean sections (c-section) has raised the rate of health implications after c-section analogously. This study aimed to identify the factors influencing the choice of cesarean birth from obstetrician' perspective. Present study was a descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study at three medical centers dependent on Tehran University of Medical Sciences in 2022. The questionnaire included parents' demographic and economic factors, parents 'previous experiences and insistence of relatives, environmental and facilities, cultural and religious, the doctor's personal opinion, and the mother's clinical and psychological factors. In general, 67 gynecologists participated in the study. The average (SD) age and work experience of doctors was 42.95 (7.68), and 11.49 (8.35) years respectively. The most determining factors in the choice of cesarean delivery from the doctor's point of view were the maternal clinical and psychological factors. Other important factors were the culture and personal beliefs of the parents. The factor of fear of litigation and court in case of birth problems and complications was one of the other essential factors in choosing cesarean delivery. In the current study, the age and experience of the specialist doctor showed a positive correlation with the personal opinion of the gynecologists. Obstetricians and gynecologists are the final decision makers in choosing the type of delivery. To select the correct method, there is a need for a specific protocol for choosing the kind of delivery, and providing a suitable platform to resolve legal concerns and lawsuits.
Investigating the Impact of Health-Protective Behaviors on Morbidity and non-Morbidity COVID-19 among Workers in Oil Refining Industry Using Machine Learning algorithms
Authors: Kalantary Saba , Pourhassan Bahman , Beigzadeh Zahra , Shahbazian Vida , Jahani Ali
Published: December 2024

Introduction: The prevalence of COVID-19 has significantly impacted work environments and the workforce. Therefore, identifying the most important preventive and control strategies, as well as assessing their effectiveness, is of paramount importance. Various studies have shown that machine learning algorithms can be used to predict complex and nonlinear issues, including predicting the behavior of various diseases such as COVID-19 and the parameters affecting it, and can be beneficial. The purpose of this study has been to examine the importance of preventive measures and hygiene behaviors in preventing COVID-19 in the oil refining industry using various machine learning models.
Material and Methods: For this purpose, demographic information and health behaviors of individuals were collected. Subsequently, a multi-layer perceptron (MLP), radial basis function (RBF), and support vector machine (SVM) models were compared to enhance the analysis of the effects of preventive measures on COVID-19 infection. Finally, the most influential factors affecting the likelihood of COVID-19 infection were determined using sensitivity analysis.
Results: The results showed that the accuracies achieved in predicting the impact of preventive measures and health behaviors on COVID-19 in occupational settings were 78.1%, 81.2%, and 78.1% by MLP, RBF, and SVM respectively. The RBF model was identified as the most accurate model for predicting the impact of health behaviors on COVID-19 disease Additionally, the level of social distancing with customers, handwashing frequency and disinfection, the availability of cleansing and disinfecting agents for hands and surfaces in the workplace, and gatherings for eating meals and snacks were identified as the most significant health behaviors influencing the prevalence of COVID-19 in the workplace.
Conclusion: Studies of this nature can underscore the importance of attention to preventive measures and health behaviors in unprecedented circumstances. Furthermore, the utilization of artificial intelligence models and tools such as DSS (Decision Support Systems) can serve as powerful tools for optimizing control measures in work environments.
Designing and Validating a Questionnaire to Investigate The Effective Factors on Acceptance of HSE Rules Among Employees
Authors: Torabi Yalda , Gilani Neda , Mohammadian Yousef , Esmaeili Ali
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Acceptance of Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) rules plays a crucial role in determining the performance of employees in HSE-related areas at the workplace. This study aimed to design a questionnaire to investigate influential factors on acceptance of HSE rules among employees.
Material and Methods: The face validity of the survey was assessed by ten individuals from the target population, while content validity was evaluated by ten HSE experts using both quantitative and qualitative methods. The impact scores were calculated for the quantitative assessment of face validity, and the Content Validity Ratio (CVR) and Content Validity Index (CVI) values were used to assess content validity. Construct validity was determined through Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) involving 506 participants. The reliability of the survey was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha and the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC).
Results: All items in the survey showed satisfactory levels of impact score (>1.5), CVR (>0.69), and CVI (>0.79). The mean values for the Impact score, CVI, CVR, and S-CVI-UA were 4.26, 0.963, 0.944, and 0.62, respectively. The survey and its dimensions demonstrated strong reliability, as indicated by Cronbach’s alpha and ICC values exceeding 0.70. Additionally, EFA successfully identified the structure of the questionnaire, and CFA confirmed its goodness of fit.
Conclusion: The Persian version of the questionnaire demonstrated satisfactory validity and reliability. This instrument can be effectively used to assess the factors that influence the acceptance of HSE rules among employees in various workplace settings.
Investigating the Relationship Between Exposure to Cadmium and Lung Cancer Risk: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Farahmandian Parisa , Mohammadian-Hafshejani Abdollah , Fadaei Abdolmajid , Sadeghi Ramezan
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in the world. Smoking occupational andenvironmental exposures are the most important causes of lung cancer. Cadmium is known as a humancarcinogen due to its ability to increase lung cancer risk. This study estimates the general results of allstudies on the relationship between cadmium and lung cancer.
Material and Methods: In the present study, studies that evaluated the relationship between cadmium andlung cancer until May 2022 were searched and retrieved. From the funnel plot to determine the existenceof diffusion skew, from the statistical tests Chi-squared test (x2) and I2 to determine heterogeneity,from the meta-regression method to identify the root of heterogeneity, and from the sensitivity analysisapproach to identify the effect of each study on the result, it was generally used. This study performed allanalyses with Stata statistical software version 15.
Results: In this study, it was observed that the chance of developing lung cancer compared to the basegroup, in the people exposed to a higher dose than the base level of cadmium is equal to 1.31 (95% CI:1.06-1.62; p-value = 0.024), which is statistically significant. Based on Egger’s test (p-value = 0.178) andBegg’s (p-value = 0.276), no diffusion bias was observed in this study.
Conclusion: ccording to the final results of this review research, exposure to cadmium leads to a 31%increase in lung cancer risk, which is statistically significant. Therefore, cadmium is a risk factor for lung cancer.
La inserción comercial de la República de Corea en la dinámica competitiva global
Authors: Jaramillo Giraldo Juan Gabriel
Published: December 2024

El modelo de desarrollo implementado por la República de Corea durante las últimas décadas ha sido objeto de admiración por parte de la comunidad internacional. Las dinámicas internas, caracterizadas por la intervención del Estado en las relaciones de producción y comercialización bajo un enfoque desarrollista, la llevaron a alcanzar tasas de crecimiento económico superio­res al promedio global, como consecuencia de la consolidación de cadenas producti­vas de alto valor agregado enfocadas en los mercados externos, el acceso a los incen­tivos fiscales y la mano de obra barata, lo que generó la transición desde economías incipientes de base agrícola hacia un modelo enfocado en la modernización del aparato fabril a nivel nacional.
A partir de la década de los ochenta, la implementación de medidas conducen­tes al fortalecimiento de las capacidades tecnológicas llevó a Seúl a adaptarse a las nuevas realidades de la dinámica competi­tiva global, donde la ciencia, la tecnología y la innovación se convirtieron en los ejes del crecimiento económico durante los años subsiguientes. Teniendo en cuenta las expe­riencias domésticas, es necesario analizar lo que representa ser competitivo en el mun­do, cuáles fueron las razones que llevaron a Corea a insertarse de manera exitosa en el comercio global y qué papel sigue jugando el Estado en el fortalecimiento de las rela­ciones económicas internacionales.
Fororð
Authors: Hayfield Erika Anne , Skorini Heini í
Published: December 2024

Fororð
Tað, sum kveikti tankan til hetta serritið, er tann týdningur, sum menniskjarættindi hava sum grundarlag undir rættvísi, rættlæti, trivnað hjá borgarum og hvussu skipanir virka í føroyska samfelagnum. Serstakliga hava kanningar av menniskjarættindum við sær verju av viðkvæmum bólkum í samfelagnum. Okkara endamál við hesum serriti er at greina menniskjarættindi og útvega vitan, sum kann fremja tilvitsku og lærdóm, rættvísi og samfelagsábyrgd, og hava við sær neyðugan politikk ella lógarbroytingar. Men allar hugsanir um menniskjarættindi, sum áseta reglur ella fyrimyndir, eru umstríddar og skapa av sonnum ósemju, tí royndin at verkseta menniskja-rættindi hevur við grundleggjandi etisk, mentanarlig og religiøs viðurskifti at gera, sum ikki almenn semja er um: Hvat er eitt rættvíst samfelag? Hvat er eitt tignarligt  lív? Hvørja ábyrgd hevur staturin mótvegis tí einstaka? Og hvørji eru mørkini millum menniskjarættindi og skyldurnar hjá menniskjanum?
RACIAL LITERACY
Authors: Marcelino Karina Francine , Ribeiro Cristiane Maria , Moraes Mário César Barreto
Published: December 2024

This article describes the development and implementation of a pedagogical intervention project. The intervention presents a reflection on ethnic-racial relations in current Brazilian times for students of the "Strategic Planning" discipline of the Higher Education Course in Management Processes at a college in Florianópolis, SC, Brazil. The objectives involve bibliographical research, assessment of students' knowledge, discussion of concepts and proposals to combat racism, racial literacy and its application in a racist society. The methodology includes content presentation, individual and collective questionnaires, debates and feedback. Results indicate interest from students, but with conceptual gaps and limited views on combating racism. The intervention provided reflection and learning, highlighting the need for continuous actions to consolidate racial literacy. Educating in this context requires acknowledging privileges and deconstructing deep-rooted concepts. This pedagogical proposal represents a step forward in redefining perceptions but highlights the importance of persistent efforts for effective changes.
Kidney physiopathologic changes in diabetic Golden-Syrian hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) fed with hypercaloric diet
Authors: Gálvez-Gastélum Francisco Javier , Alvarez-Rodríguez Bertha Adriana , Yañez-Sánchez Irinea , Domínguez-Rosales José Alfredo , Rojas-López Citlali Arlae , Palomares-Marín Jaime , Gutierrez Hurtado Itzae Adonai , Salazar Montes Adriana María , Vera-Cruz José María
Published: December 2024

Diabetic nephropathy is the single major cause of end stage renal failure. The increase of visceral adipose tissue may lead to glomerular hypertrophy and chronic kidney disease. The objective is to determine renal changes in diabetic Golden-Syrian Hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) supplemented with a hypercaloric diet. Methods: One group of animals (n=10) was fed with a standard diet (SD), and the other group (n=10) was fed with a hypercaloric diet (HCD) for 1 month. Afterwards, both groups were treated with three doses of Streptozotocin. Hyperglycemia was determined throughout 73 days. The animal’s weight, blood and kidney tissues were obtained for analysis. Results: Diabetic animals fed with HCD diet manifested hyperglycemia (250-350 mg/dL) with significant weight loss (40g) and important glomerular filtration rate decrement (0.491mL/min). Regarding to renal fibrosis, all animals showed an increase of glomerular, interstitial, and cortical extracellular matrix (36.3, 75.2 and 70.7%, respectively). Diabetic animals that were SD-fed showed only mild hyperglycemia and slight increase of glomerular, interstitial, and cortical extracellular matrix. A group of animals (n=5) that was fed exclusively with HCD was also included in the study. Conclusions: Our finding suggests that HCD fed can accelerate the progression of chronic kidney disease in a diabetic condition.
Síntesis y caracterización de películas poliméricas compuestas de PbI2 / PVA para aplicaciones optoelectrónicas
Authors: Maca Ossa Bryan , Solís Mosquera Jeisson Javier , Cabrera Germán Dagoberto , Suárez Campos Guillermo , Sotelo Lerma Mérida
Published: December 2024

Se sintetizaron películas compuestas de alcohol polivinílico/yoduro de plomo (PVA/PbI2) con diferentes concentraciones de PbI2 utilizando un proceso de evaporación de solventes a baja temperatura y de bajo costo. Las propiedades estructurales de las partículas obtenidas fueron analizadas mediante difracción de rayos X (DRX) y microscopía electrónica de barrido (MEB). Los resultados de DRX mostraron una naturaleza predominantemente cristalina, exhibiendo los planos de reflexión característicos del politipo 2H del yoduro de plomo. Las micrografías MEB mostraron una morfología hexagonal con un tamaño promedio de partícula de 13.2 µm. Los parámetros ópticos de las películas compuestas se midieron mediante espectroscopía UV-Vis, encontrándose que la brecha de energía indirecta para el PVA puro es de 4.65 eV. En contraste, las películas de PVA/PbI2 con concentraciones de 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 y 2.0 % en peso de PbI2 mostró una transición directa de 5.16 eV y una transición indirecta de 4.45 eV. La resistencia eléctrica de la película de PVA se midió en 4.32 × 107 Ω. Los análisis químicos mediante espectroscopía infrarroja por transformada de Fourier (FTIR) indicaron que la adición de partículas de PbI2 no modifica las bandas características del PVA, lo que sugiere la ausencia de enlaces químicos entre las partículas y la matriz polimérica. Las propiedades ópticas y eléctricas obtenidas sugieren que las películas compuestas de PVA/PbI2 tienen potencial para aplicaciones en el campo de la optoelectrónica.
ITÁLIA DO SÉCULO XIX: em busca de uma identidade nacional
Authors: Vasconcelos Francisco Antonio de , Nascimento Thays Kelly Feitosa do
Published: December 2024

A presente pesquisa teve como problema a ser respondido compreender como se deu a busca por uma identidade nacional pela Itália. O seu recorte temporal se situa no século XIX, especificamente, o período do Risorgimento. Num contexto geral, esta investigação se situou no interior de uma série de trabalhos investigativos que eu venho desenvolvendo nos últimos anos (alguns sozinho outras com discentes orientandos) sobre o continente africano; e, de modo mais específico, ela foi considerada como estratégia para obtenção de dados que serão utilizados para dar suporte a outra pesquisa que estivemos desenvolvendo, dedicada a compreender o problema da identidade nacional na África pós-colonial. Trata-se, portanto, de olhar para a experiência histórica da Itália do século XIX, a fim de obter elementos que nos ajudassem a ter uma melhor compreensão de uma questão que se apresenta às populações do continente africano, desde as últimas décadas do século XX. Vale ressaltar que se trata de uma pesquisa teórica cujo Objetivo Geral foi compreender como a busca por uma identidade nacional, vivenciada pela Itália no século XIX, se articula com os eventos do Risorgimento. A nível de conclusão, temos por exemplo: a) a nação não é algo dado, natural, mas histórico; b) no processo de construção da nação italiana, os interesses de uns se impuseram aos demais; c) a questão da nação italiana continua um problema em aberto.
Performance of different varieties and hybrids of black pepper (Piper nigrum L.) as mixed crop in arecanut garden of Assam, India
Authors: Deka* K.K. , Bora P. , . J.Talukdar
Published: December 2024

A field experiment was conducted at Horticultural Research Station, Assam Agricultural University, Kahikuchi, Guwahati during 2009 to 2016 for evaluation of the performance of black pepper varieties/hybrids grown as mixed crop in 16 years old block of arecanut garden (Variety-Kahikuchi Local). Varieties such as, Panniyur-2, , Panniyur-4, Panniyur-5, Sreekara, Subhakara, Panchami, Pournami, PLD-2, Chumala, Karimunda and hybrids such as Panniyur-1 and Panniyur-3 were grown in three replications. Among the varieties /hybrids, Karimunda, Panniyur-5, Sreekara, Subhakara and Panchami produced higher number of laterals with more spread at six years age compared to the other varieties. Panniyur-5 recorded significantly higher number of spikes (210.3) followed by Karimunda (186.2); whereas the lowest was recorded in Panniyur-2 (62.8). The spike length was the highest in Panniyur-1 (16.4 cm), but was on par with Panniyur-1 and Subhakara. Sreekara recorded the lowest spike length of 10.2 cm. Three years mean dry berry yield indicated that , the yield was significantly higher with Panniyur-5 (1.25 kg/vine) followed by Panniyur-1 (1.15 kg/vine) and Subhakara (1.12 kg/vine) which differed significantly over the other varieties. Variety PLD-2 recorded higher oleoresin content (13.84%) and was on par with Panchami and Pournami. Piperine content was the highest in Panniyur-2 (4.65%) followed by Panniyur-1 (4.26%). Due to the mixed cropping of black pepper in arecanut garden, an improvement in the arecanut yield was observed (2.21 kg chali/palm/year) during 2015-16 compared to the arecanut monocrop (1.96 kg chali/palm/year) during 2009-2010.
El diseño franciscano en las misiones de Guarayos
Authors: Matas Musso Josefina Leonor
Published: December 2024

El propósito de este artículo es analizar la arquitectura franciscana en las misiones de Guarayos, Bolivia, centrándose en el estudio de los cuatro templos construidos durante la etapa de consolidación de las misiones en los pueblos de Ascensión, Yaguarú, Urubichá y Yotaú. El objetivo es detectar la influencia de la espiritualidad franciscana en la arquitectura de estas edificaciones.
Para ello, se realiza una breve revisión de la historia de los franciscanos en Bolivia y en particular en Guarayos, con el fin de comprender el contexto en el que se construyeron estos templos. Luego, se proporciona una reseña histórica de cada uno de ellos, para posteriormente analizar la arquitectura en general.
El estudio se basa en una exhaustiva revisión de fuentes primarias, como el Manuscrito TAF 1895 y los escritos del padre José Cardús y del padre Bernardino Pesciotti, así como en fotografías antiguas tomadas por el fotógrafo L. Lavadenz.
A través del análisis detallado de estas fuentes, se describen las características clave del templo "franciscano - guarayo" y se examina a fondo los elementos interiores y los materiales que lo constituyen, en un proceso de intercambio, adaptación e integración entre lo foráneo y lo local. Esto da como resultado una arquitectura que refleja y se adapta al contexto regional, generando una arquitectura con "coloración regional o local".
En conclusión, el modelo analizado refleja varios aspectos fundamentales de la espiritualidad franciscana, como el amor a la pobreza y a los pobres, el amor a la naturaleza y a la predicación sencilla. No obstante, también suscita cuestionamientos acerca de la conciliación de estos ideales con las dinámicas de predominio y control presentes en este contexto, dejando este tema para futuras investigaciones, ya que no es el enfoque de la presente discusión.
Optimización del diseño de un edificio público con estrategias de climatización pasiva en la localidad de Mar Chiquita, Argentina
Authors: Atanasoska Kristina
Published: December 2024

El sector edilicio global enfrenta un aumento en el consumo energético y la emisión de gases de efecto invernadero. En Argentina, la matriz energética está basada en fuentes no renovables, y el sector comercial y público destina cerca del 50% de la energía a calefacción y refrigeración. Este estudio se centra en el Centro de Interpretación de Mar Chiquita, un edificio diseñado bajo criterios de sustentabilidad, que utiliza el invernadero como estrategia de climatización pasiva. El objetivo es analizar el diseño del edificio y optimizarlo para lograr un menor uso energético para el acondicionamiento térmico. A través de simulaciones energéticas realizadas con EnergyPlus, se evaluaron diferentes diseños en relación con la proporción ventana-muro, las infiltraciones y el uso de postigos para optimizar el confort térmico y el consumo energético. Los resultados mostraron que una proporción excesiva de carpinterías contribuye al sobrecalentamiento, mientras que reducir la infiltración mejora el confort térmico en invierno. La implementación de postigos durante el día elimina la necesidad de refrigeración mecánica en verano y su uso nocturno en invierno disminuye la necesidad de calefacción. En conclusión, se destaca la importancia de las estrategias de diseño solar pasivo en climas templados, fríos, húmedos y la necesidad de investigar más sobre la proporción ventana-muro en edificios sin invernaderos, así como evaluar las infiltraciones reales tras la construcción.
Optimisation d’un réseau de transport durable : le pré et le post acheminement des marchandises import-export du Mali
Authors: Bayogo Yapégué , Togola Lassina , Dicko Ahmadou Halassi
Published: December 2024

La continentalité du Mali fait que les produits importés et exportés ont un long parcours. L’objectif de l’étude est d’analyser la conception d’un réseau de transport en optimisant les flux et en tenant compte des impacts environnementaux. L’approche méthodologique s’est focalisée d’une part sur des recherches documentaires basées sur la lecture et l’analyse des ouvrages, des rapports d’activités, des articles scientifiques, des thèses de Doctorat et des sites Internet, d’autre part, des explorations de terrain faites avec un guide d’entretien auprès de 11 personnes. Cela a permis d’obtenir des résultats. Pour le choix des enquêtés, nous avons fait recours à la technique d’échantillonnage non probabiliste, notamment la méthode par choix raisonné. Pour l'analyse des données, nous avons fait le choix de l’analyse du contenu.  Enfin, un modèle d’optimisation faisant apparaître les trois paramètres a été formulé et testé avec le logiciel LINGO 11.00. Les résultats obtenus indiquent qu’en minimisant les temps et les coûts des pré- et post- transports, nous pouvons considérablement réduire les effets des transports sur l’environnement. De même, des mesures de réduction des coûts de transport et des temps de parcours ont été proposées. La mise en œuvre des mesures proposées permet de réduire les coûts logistiques, de minimiser le temps de parcours des marchandises et d’atténuer aussi les effets du transport des marchandises sur l’environnement.
 
The continental nature of Mali means that imported and exported products have a long journey. The objective of the study is to analyse the design of a transport network by optimising flows and taking into account environmental impacts. The methodological approach focused on the one hand on documentary research based on the reading and analysis of works, activity reports, scientific articles, Doctoral theses and websites, on the other hand Field explorations carried out with an interview guide with 11 people. This has led to results. For the choice of respondents, we used the non-probability sampling technique, in particular the purposive choice method. For the data analysis, we have chosen to analyze the content.  Finally, an optimization model showing the three parameters was formulated and tested with LINGO 11.00 software. The results obtained indicate that by minimizing pre- and post-transport times and costs, we can significantly reduce the effects of transport on the environment. Likewise, measures to reduce transport costs and travel times have been proposed. Implementation of the proposed measures makes it possible to reduce logistics costs, minimize the travel time of goods and mitigate the effects of transport of goods on the environment.
Comparative Analysis of Community Energy Projects: Policy Lessons for Kenya from the United Kingdom
Authors: Kitony Sharon , Onyango Vincent , Duot John Deng , Ologhadien Nelson Goodnews , Pouhe Stephanie Ngo
Published: December 2024

Assuming a scope for policy learning across jurisdictions, this paper compared policies relevant to community energy projects (CEPs) in a developed country where they have been adopted (i.e. the UK), against policies in an emerging country where CEPs are scarce (i.e. Kenya). Through comparative analysis, successes and failures in the policies’ landscapes were examined, with the aim of distilling lessons that could enhance CEPs adoption in Kenya. Both countries have some similar core functional mechanisms in their policies, e.g. Feed-in-Tariffs, energy auctions, and grid access. These are demand-side in nature and create a market for CEPs while derisking investments to local communities. However, key differences exist, reflecting the levels of maturity in the energy mix and policy-making in either country. The UK has more demand-side and ‘implementation oriented’ policies, compared to Kenya. For Kenya, key lessons include incentives prioritising appropriate grant programs, Feed-in-Tariffs targeting CEPs, adopting Smart Export Guarantee, implementing grid connection agreements, and fostering centres for data and knowledge exchange. However, these require a laser-focus to make them bespoke to the Kenyan context. Our recommendations envisaged a carefully calibrated confluence of pull-push policy factors, involving: a CEPs-friendly policy landscape, CEPs targets under a long-term strategy, natural abundance of different RE sources, and, Kenya’s appetite for using different policy solutions for different needs. Two key areas for relevant research are worth mentioning: exploring where the equilibrium for cost-effective energy mix integrating CEPs lies, in Kenya’s future, and; empirically exploring systems-wide analyses to reveal the inter-dependencies and inter-relations of the various contextual and policy factors, aimed at CEPs as an outcome.
The Effect of Average Collection Period, The Inventory Turnover Period, and The Average Inventory Period on Return on Assets
Authors: Hamad Samer
Published: December 2024

The importance of the Cash Conversion Cycle (CCC) emerges in helping to make appropriate financing decisions for different industries. Therefore, the research focuses on the return on assets (ROA) issues and how it is affected by the three components of the cash conversion cycle; Average Collection Period (ACP), Average Inventory Turnover Period (ITP), and Average Payment Period (APP). Since the topic refers to the potential statistical relationship between the three components and the return on assets, the research has been organized to find the validity of the answer to the research questions and hypothesis on how components affect the return on assets. Statistical analysis reveals a positive relationship between APP and ROA, showing that longer payment periods allow companies to retain cash, thereby increasing asset profitability. Conversely, negative correlations between ACP, ITP, and ROA suggest that shorter collection and turnover periods contribute to higher asset returns by minimizing cash tied up in receivables and inventory and reducing holding costs. The research’s findings underline the importance of strategic CCC management, encouraging managers to extend APP when possible while reducing ACP and ITP, to enhance liquidity, maximize asset performance, and prevent financial distress.
Language Play in Postmodern Literature: A Study of Lydia Davis' Stories
Authors: Kemertelidze Nino , Giorgadze Meri , Kajaia Manana
Published: December 2024

The paper explores the role of language play in postmodern literature through a close examination of Lydia Davis' stories. Known for her minimalist style, Davis employs innovative narrative techniques and distinctive word choices to disrupt conventional storytelling and invite readers into a complex interaction with language. The analysis highlights how Davis’ manipulation of narrative structure and stylistic devices – such as fragmentation, repetition, irony, etc. – transforms language from a simple medium of expression into a subject of inquiry. This study examines the function of language play in her stories, emphasizing how Davis’ techniques reflect broader postmodern themes of ambiguity, subjectivity, and the fluid nature of meaning.
Investigating university students' colloquial speech utterances of English in intercultural settings: a case study in Albanian context
Authors: Flett Klosi Dorjana
Published: December 2024

In today's world, the widespread use of English, along with student mobility, democratisation, cultural diversity, and the influence of media—especially the Internet—shapes the language environments of higher education institutions from a broad cultural and international communication perspective. This situation is also evident at the University "Ismail Qemali" in Vlore, Albania. The author of this paper researched how English is utilized by both local and foreign students outside the classroom. To gather data, informal conversations were recorded and systematically analyzed using descriptive approaches, statistical modeling, and conversation analysis methods, involving a corpus of 60 students from different native backgrounds (47 local Albanian students and 13 European students). Qualitative and quantitative data were collected to identify phonetic patterns, their occurrences in colloquial speech, and the reasons behind certain linguistic usages or deviations observed in students' "small talk" in multicultural settings. Some participants noted that they are influenced by English and American cultures and lifestyles to varying degrees. Conversely, other students communicated in their native languages while applying basic speech acts that were typical of their original cultural backgrounds. This behaviour illustrated some inconsistencies in phonetics, grammar, and vocabulary. These linguistic deviations reflect how language embodies individual personalities and cultural backgrounds, as speakers adapt their styles and settings in conversation.
Neural Network Approaches for Early Breast Cancer Detection
Authors: Al-Shamasneh Ala’a R. , Althuniyan Najla , Alabdulkarim Nadia , Ahmad Maya
Published: December 2024

Breast cancer research remains essential due to its high mortality rates and the critical need for improved diagnostic accuracy. This study investigates the application of neural network techniques to enhance early breast cancer detection, utilizing Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) implemented in MATLAB. By analyzing datasets from the UCI Machine Learning Repository, specifically the Coimbra and Wisconsin Breast Cancer datasets, this research demonstrates the accuracy and efficiency of neural networks in classifying malignant and benign cases. Methodologically, the study involves data preprocessing, ANN pattern recognition modeling, and testing across multiple metrics including confusion matrices and ROC plots to validate the model's predictive performance. The findings underscore the potential of neural networks as a diagnostic support tool, facilitating faster and more accurate cancer detection, thereby contributing to improved patient outcomes and supporting global health initiatives for early diagnosis.
Selection and phenotypic stability of M4 mutants of pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) derived from gamma rays induced mutagenesis in Niger
Authors: Mouhamadoua Mounkaila Boureim , Sani Daouda Ousmane , Abdoul-Bachir Issa Yacouba , Razak Sani Daouda Abdoul , Nassirou Mahamadou Adamou , Nassourou Lawali Mamane , Illiassa Soumaila Sounakoye
Published: December 2024

Gamma irradiation mutagenesis is an approach that offers a wide range of possibilities for varietal selection.  In the simultaneous induction of multiple mutations to modify several plant traits. The aim of the present study was to select seed lots for four mutants of the M4 generation. An experiment was carried out in an experimental plot to purify drought-tolerant M4 genotypes based on morphological characteristics. Potential mutants MI 02/82, MI 13/63, MI 12/72, and MI 10/54 were tested in a randomized complete block design. The parameters measured were: the number of tillers, stem height, number of internodes, number and length of ears, stem and spike diameters, and cycle duration. A dendrogram was first generated to identify the homogenous subgroups. Then an analysis of variance ANOVA was conducted between individuals of the same subgroups to evaluate the variance. On morphological parameters, results showed that MI 13/63 and MI 10/54 genotypes have a homogeneous population from M4 onwards. MI 12/72 can be classified into two different subgroups according to ear length. MI 02/82, on the other hand, showed a high degree of variability at M4. These results will contribute to the selected new varieties adapted to the needs of rural producers in order to improve the productivity of pearl millet in Niger.
Influence of soil moisture availability on dissolved organic matter properties and microbial carbon content in Poa pratensis L. rhizosphere
Authors: Danilin I. V. , Kholodov V. A. , Ziganshina A. R. , Danchenko N. A. , Buriak A. D. , Farkhodov Yu. R. , Yaroslavtseva N. V.
Published: December 2024

The goal of the work was to assess changes in microbial carbon content and the properties of dissolved organic matter (DOM) of the Poa pratensis L. rhizopshere in response to the effects of soil drying and waterlogging. The vegetation experiment without plants and with dense sowing in vegetative vessels on Haplic Chernozem surfacewas used in the work. The properties of dissolved organic matter were evaluated based on the study of water-extractable organic matter (WEOM), in which the optical properties were assessed by UV-Vis spectrophotometry and spectrofluorimetry. Soil microbial carbon content was assessed by fumigation method. It has been shown that microbial carbon content in the bulk Chernozem does not depend on soil moisture, while in the rhizosphere it increases with drying and decreases with optimal and excess moisture. Soil moisture greatly affects WEOM properties of the bulk Chernozem, whereas the rhizosphere properties are influenced by the activity of the plant. Despite the lower microbial biomass compared to the bulk soil, the microbiome of P. pratensis L. rhizosphere is capable of more intense transformation of soil organic matter. The dynamic properties of P. pratensis L. rhizosphere ensure its more active and sustainable functioning compared to bulk soil.
UPAYA PENINGKATAN MUTU PENDIDIKAN: MANAJEMEN PESERTA DIDIK DI MADRASAH TSANAWIYAH (MTs) AN-NIZHAM KOTA JAMBI
Authors: Summiyani  , Hilmi  , Yuliana Afifah  , Fransisko Chaniago
Published: December 2024

Manajemen peserta didik merupakan aspek penting dalam meningkatkan kualitas pendidikan. Meliputi pengelolaan secara efisien dan efektif seluruh kegiatan yang berkaitan dengan peserta didik dan sumber daya lainnya untuk mencapai tujuan pendidikan. Tujuan utama penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis perencanaan, pembinaan, dan evaluasi siswa di Madrasah Tsanawiyah An-Nizham Kota Jambi. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan penelitian kualitatif. Pengumpulan data dilakukan melalui metode observasi, wawancara, dan dokumentasi dengan melibatkan kepala madrasah, guru, dan komite. Hasil penelitian ini mengungkapkan bahwa Pertama, analisis perencanaan di Madrasah Tsanawiyah An-Nizham Kota Jambi yaitu analisis kebutuhan calon peserta didik, proses penerimaan, seleksi peserta didik, orientasi, penempatan, pengelompokan, dan pelaporan peserta didik. Kedua, pembinaan yang sudah dilakukan dengan kedisiplinan peserta didik melalui sholat dhuha setiap pagi hari, pembinaan kepemimpinan dalam berorganisasi, bimbingan Konseling diberikan oleh guru bimbingan konseling. Ketiga, evaluasi siswa dengan menggunakan tolak ukur untuk menghitung skor prestasi siswa serta evaluasi terhadap hasil kurikuler dan ekstra kurikuler sebagai tolak ukur untuk mengetahui perkembangan siswa sesuai bakat dan minat.
POLA PENERAPAN AUTHENTIC ASSESMENT PADA MADRASAH ALIYAH NEGERI DI KABUPATEN PIDIE - ACEH
Authors: Hadini Hadini , Imamuddin M. , Nafiar  , Nurbayani
Published: December 2024

The implementation of authentic assessment in the field has not yet been fully optimized. Teachers at madrasahs still face difficulties in planning and carrying out authentic assessments. This research aims to: first, analyze the implementation of cognitive domain evaluation; second, analyze the implementation of affective domain evaluation; and third, analyze the implementation of psychomotor domain evaluation. The study was conducted at Madrasah Aliyah Negeri within the Pidie District, Aceh. This research employs a qualitative approach, using interviews as the data collection technique. The findings of the study reveal several key points: first, the implementation of cognitive domain evaluation in Madrasah Aliyah is carried out with a 100% score, utilizing essay tests at 43% and objective tests at 57%. Second, the use of instruments for the affective aspect by teachers is at 57%, which is considered moderate. Third, the use of instruments for the psychomotor aspect by teachers is at 43%, which is considered low.
STRATEGI PEMBENTUKAN KARAKTER PEDULI LINGKUNGAN MELALUI LAYANAN PROGRAM EKSTRAKULIKULER PRAMUKA SMA NEGERI 2 PAMEKASAN
Authors: Ratnawati Rinta , Wafi Abdul , Hadi Saiful , Qosim Mubah Hilmi , Rikawari Nusih  , Zeinal Abidin
Published: December 2024

Karakter peduli lingkungan merupakan salah satu karakter yang harus di bentuk oleh stakeholder pendidikan kepada peserta didik. Peduli lingkungan merupakan sikap dan tindakan seseorang yang mencerminkan bahwasanya dirinya terus mengupayakan agar lingkungannya tetap terjaga yaitu dengan mencegah kerusakan lingkungan serta berusaha untuk memperbaiki kerusakan-kerusakan alam yang sudah terjadi. Salah satu program yang dapat membentuk karakter peduli lingkungan yaitu dengan adanya layanan program ekstrakurikuler pramuka.  Melalui kegiatan pramuka, siswa tidak hanya dapat mengasah jiwa kepemimpinan, tolong menolong dan kedisiplinan saja melainkan juga dapat meningkatkan jiwa kepeduliannya terhadap lingkungan. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dengan jenis penelitian deskriptif. Teknik pengumpulan data diperoleh dari wawancara, observasi dan dokumentasi. Sumber datanya terdiri dari kepala sekolah, guru pembina pramuka dan juga siswa. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa: pertama, strategi pembentukan karakter peduli lingkungan melalui layanan program ekstrakulikuler pramuka SMA Negeri 2 Pamekasan yaitu dengan melakukan pembiasaan-pembiasaan yang berhubungan dengan peduli lingkungan kepada siswa, menempelkan media poster peduli lingkungan di sekitar lingkungan sekolah, memberikan himbauan serta bekerjasama dengan pihak luar; kedua, faktor pendukung dan penghambatnya, faktor pendukungnya: kegiatan Pramuka di SMA Negeri 2 Pamekasan yang bersifat wajib sehingga dapat secara terus menerus dalam mengajarkan peduli lingkungan kepada siswa. Sementara untuk faktor penghambatnya yaitu dari latar belakang peserta didik yang berbeda-beda, artinya ada peserta didik yang memang sudah memiliki dasar karakter peduli lingkungan namun juga ada peserta didik yang kurang memiliki dasar karakter peduli lingkungan
Transgresiones conversacionales y recursos pragmalingüísticos: aproximación transcultural entre El Chigüire Bipolar y The Onion
Authors: Galup Thourey Ricardo
Published: December 2024

Este estudio transcultural analiza las transgresiones de las máximas conversacionales de Grice (1975) y los recursos pragmalingüísticos en noticias satíricas de El Chigüire Bipolar y The Onion, utilizando una metodología cualitativa y descriptiva (Reguera, 2008), en un contexto transcultural (Félix-Brasdefer, 2019). La muestra incluye siete artículos recientes de cada portal, seleccionados aleatoriamente. La metodología consistió en identificar elementos clave como declaraciones ingeniosas, comparaciones inusuales y chistes, y aplicar las máximas conversacionales para evaluar las estrategias humorísticas. El análisis revel. que ambos portales violan intencionalmente las máximas de cantidad, calidad, relación y manera para generar humor y crítica social en sus respectivos contextos culturales. El Chigüire Bipolar utiliza exageración, ironía, subjetividad y falta de coherencia para criticar la realidad venezolana, mientras que The Onion emplea ironía, exageración, ambigüedad y desviación de expectativas para subvertir las convenciones comunicativas. Estas transgresiones no son meras violaciones de las normas conversacionales, sino estrategias deliberadas que contribuyen al humor y la cr.tica social, subrayando la importancia del contexto y las implicaturas en la interpretación del humor. La investigación concluye que la pragm.tica transcultural muestra la flexibilidad de las normas pragmáticas en diferentes contextos culturales. La capacidad de ambos medios para utilizar recursos pragmalingüísticos de manera efectiva resuena con sus audiencias específicas, destacando la necesidad de adaptar las estrategias humor.sticas a las normas y expectativas culturales. Este estudio proporciona una comprensión más profunda de la dinámica del humor en la era digital y su papel en la formación del discurso público, contribuyendo al campo de la pragmática transcultural y la crítica social.
Le séchage des bois tropicaux : quelques durées de séchage
Authors: Sales Christian
Published: December 2024

Pas de résumé
A Comparative Study of Randu Honey Antimicrobial Activity from Several Regions in Java
Authors: Nindya Pramesti Wardani  , Primaharinastiti Riesta , Achmad Toto Poernomo  , Alfi Khatib
Published: December 2024

Background: Randu honey is monofloral honey sourced from a type of plant nectar. The geographical location of randu (Ceiba pentandra) as the source of nectar is one factor that influences the antimicrobial activity of random honey. This research used randu honey from several regions in Java such as Sidoarjo (RSH), Pusat Perlebahan Nasional Bogor (RBH), Kediri (RKH), and Malang (RMH). Objective: To compare the antimicrobial activity of several random honeys (RSH,RBH,RKH, and RMH) against Gram-negative Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) ATCC 33592, and Candida albicans ATCC 10231. Methods: This study used well diffusion and dilution antimicrobial test methods. The diameter of the inhibition zone formed by the well diffusion method was measured using a Vernier caliper. The diffusion method was used as a screening test before determining the quantitative minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) using serial dilution at a ratio1 of 2 (v/v). Streptomycin and Ketoconazole were used as positive controls. Nutrient broth and Sabouraud broth were incubated at 37°C for 24 h (antibacterial tests) and 25°C for 48 h (antifungal test), respectively. Results: The well diffusion test revealed that all random honey samples could inhibit the test bacteria and fungi with the appearance of an inhibition zone. Diameter inhibition zone ranged from 14.66±0.52 mm to 27.86±0.43 mm. The MICs of RSH,RBH,RKH, and RMH ranged from 3.12% to 25% against all test bacteria and fungi. Conclusion: The results of this study showed randu honey from Bogor (RBH) has the highest antimicrobial activity based on diffusion and dilution tests.