bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genotypic and Phenotypic Correlation and Path Coefficient Analysis of Rhodes Grass (Chloris gayana) Genotypes
Authors: Urgesa Lensa , Dinkale Tamirat , Hassen Jibrail
Published: December 2024

Evidence on the collective association of traits is important for effective selection in forage-breeding program. Twenty four genotypes of Rhodes grass and one check were evaluated at Mechara Agricultural Research Center (Onstation) with lattice design in 2023/24 main rainy season to evaluate the Genotypic and phenotypic correlation and determine the direct and indirect effects of yield-related traits on dry matter yield. The mean sum of squares of genotypes showed significant differences (p < 0.05) for stand vigor, days to 50% emergence, date to 50% flowering and Plant height and highly significant (p < 0.001) for biomass yield, dry matter and number of leaf per plant. Maximum phenotypic variance and genotypic variance value was recorded for days to maturity. The range observed for heritability (H2bs) was from (0.0%) to (55%). Stand vigor exhibited highest value of genetic advance as percentage of mean followed by number of leaf per plant. Highest genotypic coefficient variation were recorded from days to maturity (89.8%) flowed by Plant height (62.3%) and Highest phenotypic coefficient variation were recorded from plot cover (184.9%) followed by days to maturity (225.4%). Phenotypically and Genotypically dry matter yield was highly positive significant associated with of Plot cover (0.546**), stand vigor (0.566**), leaf per plant (0.439**) and showed highly negative significant with days to 50% emergence. The results of phenotypic path coefficient analysis showed that stand vigor (0.378) and leaf per plant had exerted moderate positive direct effect on dry matter. stand vigor followed by plant height, plot cover and leaf per plant had exerted high and positive direct effect on dry matter yield and genotypic path analysis showed stand vigor followed by plant height, plot cover and leaf per plant had exerted high and positive direct effect on dry matter yield. This indicates that selection based on these traits could be more effective to maximize dry yield.
Ecological Footprint for Environmental Sustainability at the University of Juba, South Sudan
Authors: Morris David , Morjan Malik , Woni Moses , Manya Charles , Akec John
Published: December 2024

Given the growing population of students and the new infrastructural development at the University of Juba, it is environmentally significant to investigate the ecological footprint of the University campus ecosystem in light of environmental sustainability. This study aims to assess and quantify the ecological footprint at University of Juba campus and compare them to the environmental sustainability. In this study cross sectional survey of 180 students and component based methods by Rees and Wackernagel were employed to obtain results of ecological footprint of water, food, land, transport, waste and energy at the University of Juba. Considering Ecological Footprint of students and staff on campus, Biocapacity was 1.16, ecological footprint remainder was 1.06 and ecological footprint index was 0.92. While the ecological footprint of Water, food, transportation, waste, energy and built-up land footprint were 0.04, 0.03, 0.03, 0.01, 0.0003 and 0.0002 gha/capita respectively. The result of the environmental sustainability practices on the campus revealed that 11 out of 44 environmental sustainable programs were not practiced on campus implying 27.7% of the university operation was unsustainable. Although, University of Juba was found to be environmentally sustainable, reducing its ecological footprint per capita by 0.89 gha/capita. Based on the study result, the Ecological Footprint per capita of water, energy, transportation, food, waste and build-up land at the University were environmentally sustainable (0.11 gha/capita). If, all people were living the lifestyle of the University of Juba, we would require only one planet Earth.
Quality of Work Life’s Factors and Its Effect on Organizational Commitment of Workers in Da Nang City, Viet Nam
Authors: Tam Dang , Phuong Phan , Tuan Tran , Thach Nguyen
Published: December 2024

This research examines the impact of various factors on the quality of work life and their effects on employee commitment. The research model includes 8 factors and 19 hypotheses, developed based on theoretical foundations and empirical studies. The quantitative research involved 400 formal labors working in organizations in Da Nang city, Vietnam. The study processed and analyzed employee survey data using Smart PLS-4 software with the partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) method. The results indicate that four statistically significant factors impact the quality of work life: the workplace environment (WE, Beta = 0.276), the balance between personal and work life (PWB, Beta = 0.249), financial rewards and remuneration (FRW, Beta = 0.197), and job security and stability (JSS, Beta = 0.127). The results of the mediation analysis show that the quality of work life (QWL) mediates the relationships between job security and stability, financial rewards and wages, the work environment and the balance between personal life and work life in terms of organizational commitment (OC). Regarding the factors affecting organizational commitment (OC), job security and stability (JSS) have the greatest impact (Beta = 0.203), followed by financial rewards and wages (FRW) (Beta = 0.160) and participation (PA) (Beta = 0.110), in descending order of influence. These recommendations will assist organizations in designing effective welfare programs, enhancing the work environment, and developing human resource policies that foster employee engagement and reduce turnover rates.
Management of Quadruplet Infants at the General Hospital of West Nusa Tenggara Province, Indonesia: A Case Report
Authors: Indrasuari Luh , Wirawan I , Hamid Agus
Published: December 2024

Multiple pregnancies with more than two fetuses significantly increase maternal and infant complications. Almost all multiple pregnancies with more than two fetuses result in preterm birth. Prematurity is the main consequence of multiple pregnancies with more than two fetuses. Early provision of optimal nutrition is crucial for the growth and immunity of premature infants. We report our first-hand experience as the primary referral hospital in West Nusa Tenggara Province, Indonesia, in providing multidisciplinary care for the birth of quadruplet premature infants. A 39-year-old woman, gravida 3, para 2, living 2, nulliparous, was referred to the General Hospital of West Nusa Tenggara Province from Bima District Hospital due to a quadruplet pregnancy at 28-29 weeks gestation. A multidisciplinary team consisting of obstetricians, pediatricians, and nurses was assembled. All four infants were diagnosed with hyaline membrane disease (HMD) and immediately transferred to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Premature infants received parenteral and enteral nutrition support. Family-centered care approach was implemented for the care of the premature infants and their families. All infants were discharged at 35 weeks postmenstrual age (PMA). Spontaneous quadruplet pregnancies are rare cases, and this particular case represents the first experience of our hospital in managing quadruplet infants. A well-coordinated multidisciplinary approach, coupled with good preparedness for delivery, is essential and has proven to yield favorable outcomes for both the mother and the infants.
Miliary Tuberculosis with Tuberculous Meningoencephalitis in Children Under Two Years of Age with a Missed Opportunity of Immunization: A Case Report
Authors: Indrasuari Luh , Indriyani Sang
Published: December 2024

Miliary TB is one of the manifestations of TB with incidence 3-7% among all TB cases and 13% can spread to brain as Tuberculous Meningitis (TBM). This case report discusses a case of miliary TB complicated with meningoencephalitis in children under two years of age without history of BCG vaccination. A 23-month-old girl with severe malnutrition, came to outpatient clinic with fever for 6 months, cough for 3 months, gland enlargement in the neck, no history of BCG and no history of TB contact. Because the chest x-ray showed miliary TB, we decided to hospitalized the patient. Suddenly she had loss of consciousness and seizures in the way to pediatric ward. After being managed and stabilized, we decided do head CT scan with contrast and found multiple rim enhancing lesions, with a smooth inner outer layer. Mycobacterium Tuberculosis was detected without rifampicin resistance by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) TB from sputum speciment, but not detected in liquor cerebro spinal (LCS). Cerebrospinal fluid analysis showed mononuclear cell dominant (87%). The patient was given broad spectrum antibiotic, anti-seizures drug, and intensive phase anti-tuberculosis drugs with RHZE and steroid. The patient was discharged with clinical improvement after 3 weeks of treatment but had sequelae of cerebral palsy. Early detection and appropriate management are crucial in pediatric patients with miliary TB to reduce mortality rate and prevent TBM, which can lead to permanent neurological disabilities.
A Comparative Study on Characteristics and Properties of Food Packaging Film from Cassava Starches of Different Varieties Grown in Ethiopia
Authors: Mamiru Dawit , Werako Endale , Mindahun Tayto
Published: December 2024

The present study investigates cassava starches from different Ethiopian varieties for the development of biodegradable food-packaging films. Cassava is a vital food crop in Ethiopia and is, therefore, regarded as a very friendly and renewable raw material for replacing synthetic plastic packaging due to its high starch content. This research work aimed at investigating, comparing the physicochemical, mechanical, and barrier properties of films developed from two different cassava varieties, namely Kello and Qulle. The methodology followed the isolation of starches from cassava root, the evaluation of their characteristics, as well as the pasting behavior. Edible films were prepared by using a casting technique and their mechanical properties included tensile strength and elongation at break, and barrier properties such as water vapor transmission and solubility were determined. From the test results, it can be obtained that Kello variety absorbed more water and had greater swelling power; therefore, it performed better in terms of flexibility. On the other hand, Qulle has a greater tensile strength and less solubility; hence, it will be suitable for dry food packaging. Again, both varieties fulfill minimum mechanical and barrier requirements for the different applications of packaging. Further research is suggested to refine production processes and broaden their applications in the food industry.
Incorporating Training Prescription from a Countermovement Jump-based Algorithm Does Not Improve Jump Performance
Authors: Hierholzer Kaela , Ray Nicole , Briggs Robert , Collins Kyle , DeKalb Creighton , Hagen Josh , Eckerle Jason , Barrett Kristyn , O’Connor Maegan , Walters James , Mackowski Nicholas , Strang Adam
Published: December 2024

Countermovement jump (CMJ) testing is a commonly used, effective tool for monitoring performance, neuromuscular fatigue, and injury risk. Force plates can provide information about jump performance including power, explosiveness, and interlimb asymmetry. Embedded human performance (HP) teams focus on preparing military personnel to meet the physical demands of their occupations, and with the implementation of CMJ monitoring; they can work towards eliminating the risk of musculoskeletal injuries (MSKI). The purpose of this study was twofold: 1) Determine whether the intervention exercises prescribed by Sparta Science training program changed an individual’s jump performance over a 10-week training program and 2) Evaluate how Sparta strength training recommendations impacted other performance metrics over the training program. This study included 31 active-duty Air Force personnel who completed a 10-week, concurrent training program with pre- and post-testing. Sparta jump height increased by 2.11 centimeters on average. Lower body anaerobic capacity improved as evidenced by significant lower body wingate relative (W/kg) (p=0.022) and absolute power (W) (p=0.045) increases from pre- to post-testing. The results of this study indicated that practitioners are not likely to achieve optimal results for either injury risk or jump performance by following Sparta’s training suggestions. Instead, these results indicate that the appropriate training program recommendations include focus on the specific needs of an individual, to include strength, power, and force-developing exercises to elicit optimal jump and performance metric outcomes.
Modelling and Forecasting Unemployment Trends in Kenya Using Advanced Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Opondo Reuben , Bundi Davis , Weke Patrick
Published: December 2024

This study conducts a comprehensive analysis exploring the relationship between key macroeconomic indicators and the unemployment rate, alongside evaluating the predictive accuracy of modern regression models. The correlation analysis examines the association between unemployment rate percentages and five macroeconomic variables: real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth, gross public debt as a percentage of GDP, population size, government revenue as a percentage of GDP, and government expenditure as a percentage of GDP. The results highlight significant correlations, particularly the strong positive relationship between unemployment rates and gross public debt (% of GDP) (0.8417), while real GDP growth shows a weak correlation (0.0783), indicating that debt levels may be a more crucial determinant of unemployment variations in this context. Additionally, a comparison of modern regression models, namely Support Vector Regression (SVR), Neural Network Regression, and Bayesian Regression, is conducted based on their performance metrics: Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), R-Squared, Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), and Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC). Among the models, Support Vector Regression outperforms the others, with the lowest MAE (0.0823), RMSE (0.0878), and the highest R-Squared value (0.9915), along with notably favourable AIC (-100.2072) and BIC (-69.4268) scores. Neural Network Regression also delivers competitive performance with a slightly higher MAE and RMSE but a similarly strong R-Squared (0.9887). In contrast, Bayesian Regression exhibits weaker predictive power with higher error metrics (MAE = 0.2579, RMSE = 0.3109) and a significantly lower R-Squared (0.8806), AIC (28.0408), and BIC (36.8352). These findings underscore the efficacy of SVR in predictive modelling for macroeconomic datasets, suggesting its suitability for unemployment rate forecasting.
The Mechanism of Modification Influence on Non-Metallic Inclusions in the Weld Metal of High-Strength Low-Alloy Steels
Authors: Viktor Zhukov , Valery Kostin , Viktor Holovko , Maksym Reminnyi
Published: December 2024

An analysis of the effect of modification by dispersed particles of various compounds on the distribution, composition, and morphology of non-metallic inclusions and phase precipitates in the weld metal of low-alloy high-strength steel has been conducted. It has been established that modification with dispersed TiN or Al2O3 particles leads to the enlargement of non-metallic inclusions in the weld metal. It has been shown that some modifier particles of SiC or TiC dissolve in the liquid metal pool and precipitate as separate new phase inclusions on or near the surface of non-metallic inclusions, which overall results in changes in the composition and morphology of non-metallic inclusions in the weld metal. In the case of using ZrO2 or TiO2 modifiers, small 20-60 nm dispersed non-metallic inclusions are formed, enhancing the modification effect. During the analysis, no primary particles of modifiers were detected, but separate phase separations were detected, which may indicate the complete dissolution of particles in a liquid metal bath of some types of SiC, TiC separations and their subsequent separation from a supersaturated solid solution upon cooling welded joint. In cases where zirconium oxides ZrO2 or TiO2 were used as modifying compounds, the size reduction of refractory oxides inoculated into the welding bath to nanosize (30...70 nm, the size of which can be compared to the size of the tip of the dendrite growing from the liquid metal of the weld pool during the crystallization process, increases the efficiency of the modification.
Antimicrobial Activity of the Ethanol Extract of Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) and Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) on Dental Caries-causing Bacteria
Authors: Obot Uduak , Obot Utibemfon , Inyangudoh Akwaowo , Abraham Nsikak , Etok Comfort
Published: December 2024

This study investigated the antimicrobial activity of the ethanol extract of lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) and thyme (Thymus vulgaris) on dental caries-causing bacteria. Standard microbiological techniques were carried out on samples obtained from patients at St. Luke Hospital, Anua, Uyo. The percentage occurrence of five bacterial isolates obtained included: Enterococcus faecalis (20%), Corynebacterium sp (10%), Bacillus sp (5%), Lactobacillus acidophilus (25%) and Streptococcus mutans (40%). The ethanol extract of lemongrass and thyme as well as the phytochemical analysis were determined. The results revealed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, glycosides, steroids and phenols in lemongrass. It also showed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, tannins, glycosides, steroids and terpenoids in thyme. Antimicrobial activity and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the ethanol extracts of lemongrass and thyme were also determined. The results indicated that at 100% concentration, Bacillus sp (25.5 mm) exhibited more susceptibility; Enterococcus faecalis (19 mm) exhibited the least susceptibility and Corynebacterium sp was resistant to the ethanol extract of lemongrass. Enterococcus faecalis (32 mm) exhibited the highest susceptibility while Streptococcus mutans (14 mm) exhibited the least susceptibility to the ethanol extract of thyme. Bacillus sp and Enterococcus faecalis exhibited the lowest Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) value which was 6.25 mg/ml. In this study, lemongrass and thyme proved to be potential antimicrobial agents against dental caries-causing bacteria.
Basic Laboratory Manual: Analysis of Animal Feed and Physical Evaluation
Authors: Getachew Muluken , Mosneh Abebe
Published: December 2024

This laboratory manual provides essential protocols and procedures for analyzing animal feed in the Animal Nutrition Laboratory at Wollo University. It is tailored to assist researchers, technical assistants, and students in evaluating feed quality to optimize ruminant nutrition, especially under arid conditions where feed costs impact livestock productivity. The manual covers safety guidelines, sample preparation, and detailed procedures for determining moisture, dry matter, crude protein, crude fiber, ether extract, and ash content in animal feed samples. Special emphasis is placed on using the Kjeldahl method for protein determination and the Soxhlet apparatus for fat extraction. The Kjeldahl method is emphasized for precise protein analysis, while the Soxhlet apparatus is utilized for fat extraction. These analyses ensure accurate evaluation of nutritional content, which is critical for formulating balanced and cost-effective diets. Additionally, the manual includes methods for producing urea molasses blocks, a valuable supplementary feed. Physical evaluation techniques such as assessing color, texture, odor, and mold presence are highlighted for rapid feed quality assessment, ensuring safe and effective diets. Practical methods for producing urea molasses blocks are also included, offering a supplemental feed option to enhance livestock performance. A urea molasses block (UMB) is a type of supplementary feed designed to provide ruminants with essential nutrients, especially in areas where high-quality forage is scarce or costly. It is made from a mixture of urea, molasses, and other ingredients such as water, minerals, and sometimes cereal grains or by-products. These techniques provide a preliminary safety and quality check before laboratory analysis. The manual serves as a valuable resource for optimizing feed quality in ruminant and non-ruminant production systems. In conclusion, the researchers and practitioners at Wollo University Animal Nutrition Laboratory adhere strictly to the safety guidelines and protocols outlined in the manual to ensure accurate and reliable feed quality analysis. Additionally, incorporating urea molasses blocks as a supplementary feed in regions with scarce high-quality forage will help improve livestock productivity by providing essential nutrients.
Estimates of Genetic Variability on Agro-Morphological Parameters of Newly Selected Maize [Zea mays L.] Landraces in Nigeria
Authors: Imam Mariam , Olanya Ibrahim , Abdulrahman Yahaya
Published: December 2024

Agro-morphological characterizations offer resilient and strong means for the precise characterization of germplasm to be used in breeding programs. Here, agro-morphological parameters were analyzed to figure out the genetic variability within 23 maize accessions commonly grown in the maize producing states. A total of 12 important agro-morphological traits were determined in the field trails at Agas research farm, kwara state Nigeria during 2023 planting season. The experiment was conducted in a complete randomized design with three replications. The highest plant height was recorded in the Accession NG03 (187.45), thenumber of leaves per plant was highest in the accessions BA-02 and KW-03 with the mean value (17.27) respectively. The length of cob was highest in the accessions NG-03 and JG-04 (21.60). The length of husk was lowest in the accession JG-04 (24.40). The accession NG-03 can serve as a breeding tool in breeding programmes as it showed highest in some morphological parameters. Other agro-morphological parameters showed significant differences as revealed by ANOVA statistically. This study revealed some accessions with diverse morphological traits that might be used as promising parents for maize in current and future biotechnology research and breeding programmes.
Mortality Predictors and Survival Analysis in Cervical Cancer Patients Treated with Brachytherapy: A Retrospective Study at RMCH
Authors: Julekha Khatun , Md. Abdul Karim , Shahrin Jahan , Mawa Chowdhury , Saikat Biswas
Published: December 2024

Cervical cancer remains a significant health burden, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where over 85% of cases occur. Bangladesh exhibits crude incidence and mortality rates of 10.2 and 6.1 per 100,000, respectively, highlighting the impact of cervical cancer. This retrospective study, conducted at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, assessed 141 cervical cancer patients treated with brachytherapy between December 2016 and December 2020. The primary objective was to examine survival outcomes and associated mortality factors in relation to the stage of cervical cancer at diagnosis. The study revealed that 59 patients (42%) were alive at the time of analysis, of which 88% had achieved disease-free survival. Conversely, 35 patients (25%) were deceased, with advanced-stage disease being predominant among them. Renal failure was identified as the leading cause of death (37%). Results suggest that early-stage cervical cancer correlates with improved survival outcomes, underscoring the necessity of early detection and prompt treatment. Despite the curative potential of brachytherapy when combined with external beam radiotherapy and cisplatin-based chemotherapy, global disparities in access to brachytherapy hinder effective cervical cancer management, particularly in low-resource settings. Enhanced screening programs, vaccination efforts, and broader access to advanced treatment modalities, including brachytherapy, are critical in reducing cervical cancer-related mortality in low- and middle-income countries.
Plasma Torch Height Tracking Based on Rolling Grey Prediction
Authors: Kye Yong , Choe Yun , Song Sung , Paek Myong , Ju Gun , Hong Hae
Published: December 2024

Among the parameters influencing plasma arc cutting, arc current, cutting speed, and plasma torch height act as the main factors. Among them, the plasma torch height plays an important role in improving the kerf width and cut quality, and the automatic control of the plasma torch height is essential due to the deformation of the workpiece during the cutting process. Therefore, according to the surface condition of the workpiece during plasma cutting, it is required to have automatic control so that the gap between the plasma nozzle and the cut workpiece remains constant. The plasma torch height control system in this paper consists of the sensing, controller, prediction, and stepper motor control system of the plasma torch height. Here, the rolling mode grey prediction algorithm is applied to predict the next state for the cutting forward direction and to control the previous data continuously updating. It is shown by the Simulink results of Matlab that the plasma torch height tracking with rolling grey prediction has better tracking accuracy than the general PID control method. In addition, the comparison between the plasma torch height tracking experimental results using the rolling grey prediction based method and the tracking experimental results using the general PID control method in the cutting test showed that the variation of the arc voltage is less, the cutting width is smaller, and the tracking performance is improved.
Socio-political Struggle and the Problem of State Building in Ukraine in the 60's of the XVII Century
Authors: Pasichnyk Mykhailo
Published: December 2024

60-80s of the 17th century. entered the history of Ukraine as the "Age of Ruin". Unfortunately, the heirs of B. Khmelnytskyi could not successfully complete his endeavors. The beginning of the Age of Ruin was the removal of Yu. Khmelnytskyi from power in the fall of 1657. I. Vyhovskyi and his supporters actually carried out a coup d'état. In the post of hetman, I. Vyhovsky pursued an anti-Moscow policy, defeated the pro-Moscow uprising of the Cossacks (1658), and sent Russian troops to Konotop (1659). He concluded an agreement with the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth in Hadiachy (1658), which was ratified by the Polish Diet. This agreement too limited the rights of Ukraine, which reduced Vyhovsky's support among the Cossacks. In October 1659 he was removed from the hetmanship at the "Black Council" and returned power to Yuri Khmelnytskyi. After that, he was in the Polish civil service. In 1664, by order of his personal enemy - the then hetman of Right Bank Ukraine, Pavlo Teteri - he was arrested, baselessly accused of treason against the Polish king and shot. The formal reason for these actions was Yu. Khmelnytskyi's youth, illness, and weakness. The real reasons are the deterioration of the state's geopolitical situation, the strengthening of social opposition in society, the struggle of individual elite groups for power, weak support for the idea of hereditary monarchy, etc.
Data Storytelling Around André Mazon’s Correspondence
Authors: Cinková Silvie , Hladká Barbora , Mírovský Jiří , Archaimbault Sylvie
Published: December 2024

We present a data story, the central concept of our international onesemester data analytics course for students of social sciences and humanities. Namely, we demonstrate the four stages of the data lifecycle – gathering, analyzing, annotating, licensing & sharing – using the multilingual correspondence collection of French Slavist André Mazon and tools for data visualization (Tableau Public), text transcription (Transkribus, Pero), building and searching text corpora (TEITOK, Corpus Query Language) and natural language processing (UDPipe).
Design and Implementation of a Spark Pulse Power Control Device for Intrinsically Safe Circuits
Authors: You Meng-Ran , Liu Shu-Lin , Xu Dan-Dan
Published: December 2024

This paper presents the study and design of a control device capable of adjusting and monitoring spark pulse power and pulse width time. This device aids in the experimental analysis of spark discharge ignition mechanisms and explores the relationship between the spark power, discharge
time, and energy. The device comprises two stages. The first stage employed a forward converter as the main topology. By using a controller to set an adjustable reference voltage and incorporating current-mode feedback control, it achieves a wide range of adjustable output voltage, providing
the necessary voltage and transmitting spark pulse power to the second stage. The second stage circuit includes a spark discharge control switch and proposes a timing control strategy for the spark switch to comply with the IEC standard spark test apparatus. The controller monitors the spark
status of the second stage circuit in real-time and controls the on-off timing of the spark switch, enabling controllable and monitorable spark pulse width time. Experimental test results demonstrate that the device operates stably, achieving the intended controllability and monitorability
of spark pulse width time, and meets the expected outcomes.
Evaluating the Thermal and Hydraulic Performance of Various Nanofluids for Cooling Efficiency in Diverse Heat-Sink Configuration
Authors: Alkasmoul Fahad S. , Almogbel Ahmed M.
Published: December 2024

Using nanofluids in thermal applications is widely believed to enhance efficiency compared to conventional fluids, presenting the significant role of nanofluids as a crucial step in implementing energy-saving measures across various commercial applications. However, the selection of
nanofluid concentration often lacks a systematic approach, with decisions made independently of specific application requirements, type of nanofluid, cost considerations, and economic factors such as energy cost and system lifetime. This study examines the thermal and hydraulic performance
of four nanofluids (Al2O3, TiO2, CuO, and SiO2) in heat-sink configurations designed for cooling data center servers. The research quantifies the effects of these nanofluids across three heat-sink cross-sectional shapes—circular, square, and
rectangular—by analyzing metrics such as maximum chip surface temperature and cross-sectional pressure drop over a range of Reynolds numbers and flow rates. Key findings reveal that the square cross-sectional shape achieves a balanced performance, optimizing thermal transfer with a moderate
pressure drop, making it a promising option for data center applications. The rectangular configuration offers superior heat transfer but incurs higher pressure drops, suited for cases prioritizing cooling efficiency over energy cost. Al2O3 nanofluid demonstrated the
highest thermal conductivity but also resulted in the greatest increase in pressure drop, especially at higher nanoparticle concentrations. These results offer critical quantitative insights into selecting appropriate nanofluids and geometric configurations for enhanced cooling performance
in data centers, highlighting the trade-offs between cooling efficiency and hydraulic energy demands.
The NFL Sunday Ticket Nightmare
Authors: Blair Roger D. , Liu Olivia
Published: December 2024

This article provides an antitrust law and economics analysis of In re: NFL “Sunday Ticket” Antitrust Litigation, which ended in a jury verdict for two plaintiff classes and a surprising turn of events when the court vacated the jury’s damage award. The article explains the economic incentives for pooling broadcast rights and marketing them jointly. It also examines the role of the Sports Broadcasting Act and discusses the reasons why the parties went to trial instead of settling the dispute.
Improving Firearm Screening and Safe Storage Counseling in a Primary Care Pediatric Practice
Authors: Craig Crystal N. , Rand Cynthia M. , Baldwin Constance D.
Published: December 2024

We conducted a quality improvement (QI) study to increase rates of firearm screening/safety counseling by 25% over 10 months for children (4-18 years) at preventive visits in an academic continuity clinic. Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles consisted of 1) (January 2023) educating providers about best practices for screening, safe storage counseling, and use of cable firearm locks; 2) (May 2023) revising the preventive visit note template to prompt providers on best practices; and 3) (September 2023) providing caregiver educational resources to support safe storage practices. The baseline firearm screening rate was 38%. After PDSA 1, screening rates were 34%; following PDSA 2, screening rates increased to 82.5%; after PDSA 3, rates were 95%. This QI intervention increased provider screening for firearms, confidence in safety counseling, and confidence in the use of cable firearm locks during preventive visits. Revising the note template had the largest effect on increasing screening rates.
Sociology of values or sociology of morality?
Authors: Bykov Andrey , Nastina Ekaterina
Published: December 2024

Values and morality are the key concepts sociologists have been using to emphasize the normative dimension of social behavior since the very dawn of our discipline. Yet, while one can find two modern traditions of research concentrated around the concepts of values and morality in sociology, the strict relations between them are rarely explicitly addressed. In this article, we aim to analyze the concepts of values and morality as used in sociological theory and research, specifying the core meanings and contexts in which sociologists employ either of them. Based on this, we propose four analytical optics – empirical vs theoretical emphasis, moral vs non-moral values, bottom-up vs top-down approach, realism vs relativism – that help clarify the crucial features of the two strands in comparison to each other while suggesting the ways by which they may further complement each other.
Rural areas and social work: Reflection on research in German-speaking countries
Authors: Hille Julia , Brandstetter Manuela , Schulze Mandy , Keller Samuel
Published: December 2024

Demographic change, securing social services, dealing with migration and agreeing to democratic participation are particularly rural challenges in Austria, Switzerland and Germany. Although social work is responsible for all these issues, there is a lack of a differentiated view. What exactly are rural areas? Who are the relevant actors in and for social work? As the social contexts are very different, research must differentiate and take into account the cultural and historical contexts of regional challenges. This article aims to strengthen the research perspective on rural areas and demonstrate their relevance in the discourse on social work.
Creating a world social work map: The need for an International Social Work Observatory (ISWO)
Authors: Suarez Holger
Published: December 2024

Social work is a global force as seen in international/regional organisations such as the International Federation of Social Work, the International Association of Schools of Social Work and the European Social Work Research Association. In this brief note, it is shown that though several papers have analysed the development of social work in different countries, there does not seem to be a tool that facilitates a cross-analysis of the social work situation around the globe. The author addresses this gap and suggests an International Social Work Observatory that collects and analyses data worldwide and publishes a social work index. The author also presents a questionnaire that this observatory could use to produce a world map of social work periodically.
Out-of-Pocket Health Expenditure and Associated Factors: Insights From National Health Accounts (NHA) Using Panel Data Analysis
Authors: Sofi Sameer A. , Yasmin Effat
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the relationship between out-of-pocket (OOP) healthcare spending, economic growth, population growth, and government health expenditure as a proportion of general government expenditure using National Health Accounts (NHA) estimates. Out-of-Pocket (OOP) healthcare spending imposes a substantial financial burden on households, especially in developing economies such as India. Understanding the factors that influence OOP payments is crucial for policymakers seeking to enhance healthcare systems and achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC). High OOP expenditures often lead to impoverishment and inequitable access to healthcare, making it a critical area for reform. Despite the well-known negative economic and social consequences of high OOP spending, there is limited research that thoroughly examines the interplay between key economic variables such as economic growth, population growth, and government healthcare expenditure (GHE) as a proportion of general government expenditure (GGE) in shaping OOP healthcare spending. Furthermore, although the National Health Accounts (NHA) offers comprehensive data across Indian states, few studies have leveraged this data to explore the dynamics of these factors. This study aims to fill this gap by providing empirical insights into how these economic and demographic elements influence OOP healthcare spending in India. The analysis employed fixed and random effects models on data from 19 Indian states spanning the years 2013-14 and 2019-20. Fixed effects models were selected based on the results of the Hausman test, which indicated that these models were more effective for controlling unobserved heterogeneity across states.The results indicate that a 1% increase in Gross State Domestic Product is associated with a 0.5% reduction in OOP payments. No significant relationship was identified between population growth or GHE/GGE ratio and OOP healthcare spending. These results imply that while economic growth can contribute to lowering healthcare costs, other factors, such as public health spending, may not be as effective unless they are more strategically targeted. The study underscores the vital role of economic growth in reducing OOP healthcare spending, especially in states facing significant financial burdens. Policymakers should consider aligning economic growth strategies with healthcare reforms to ensure that the benefits of development lead to reduced OOP expenditures. As the findings also suggest that GHE/GGE does not significantly affect OOP costs, policymakers should enhance the targeting and efficiency of public health expenditures while expanding health insurance coverage, and strengthening primary healthcare systems to mitigate OOP costs.
Diagnostic Values of Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology and Frozen Section in Management of Parotid Tumors
Authors: Mete Utku , Basut Oğuz , Saraydaroğlu Özlem , Demir Uygar Levent , Özmen Ömer Afşın , Kasapoğlu Fikret , Coşkun Hamdi Hakan
Published: December 2024

Background: This study aims to investigate the diagnostic values of fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) and frozen section (FS) in evaluating parotid gland masses subjected to parotidectomy. Methods: A retrospective analysis of data from 274 patients who underwent parotidectomy for parotid gland masses was performed at the Department of Otolaryngology of the University Hospital between 2013 and 2019. We compared the preoperative FNAC and intraoperative FS records with the definitive histopathological diagnoses obtained from the surgical resection specimens. Results: The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive, and negative predictive value of FNAC in reaching the correct diagnosis were 65.1%, 94.1%, 88.7%, 77.1%, and 92.1%, respectively. The FS analysis values were 92.9%, 97.2%, 95.3%, 96.3%, and 94.6%, respectively. Additionally, the true-positive, true-negative, false-positive, and false-negative cases are documented and discussed. Conclusions: Although FNAC is a commonly used, easy, and reliable diagnostic method for parotid tumors, the diagnostic values observed in our study are low. FS analysis appears to be a more robust method. Therefore, we recommend a balanced use of these diagnostic tools, informed by clinical judgment, patient considerations, and available resources, to optimize outcomes in the management of parotid gland tumors.
Pituitary Gland Macroadenoma with Associated Hearing Loss
Authors: Park Su Cheol , Kweon Hyeok Tae , Lee Sein , Yeo Cha Dong
Published: December 2024

Pituitary macroadenomas are benign neoplasms that can cause a range of symptoms due to a mass effect on surrounding structures. This case report describes a 51-year-old male presenting with progressive bilateral hearing impairment and significant deterioration in speech discrimination over several years. Examination revealed normal tympanic membranes and no neurological deficits, while pure tone audiometry indicated mild to moderate sensorineural hearing loss. Magnetic resonance imaging identified a 6 × 5.5 × 7 cm pituitary macroadenoma extending into the suprasellar region and invading the sphenoid and right cavernous sinuses. The patient underwent a two-stage surgical intervention followed by gamma knife surgery. Postoperative follow-up showed mild deterioration in hearing with unmeasurable speech discrimination scores. This case underscores the importance of considering pituitary macroadenomas in the differential diagnosis of unexplained hearing loss and highlights the role of comprehensive audiological and imaging evaluations in achieving accurate diagnosis and optimal management.
Longitudinal pathways linking peer victimization to academic efficacy in adolescence: Indirect effects via sleep
Authors: Bakth Faizun N. , Hoffman Adam , Schacter Hannah L.
Published: December 2024

Although past research links greater peer victimization to poorer academic achievement, much less is known about if or how peer victimization contributes to adolescents’ academic efficacy, a potentially malleable predictor of academic success. Informed by the biopsychosocial framework of sleep that emphasizes the interplay of interpersonal dynamics and bioregulatory processes in shaping developmental outcomes, the current study investigated pathways from peer victimization to academic efficacy across adolescents’ first 2 years of high school, testing sleep as a potential underlying mechanism. Participants were 388 ninth-grade adolescents ( Mage = 14.05, SD = 0.41; 61% female) who completed five online assessments of peer victimization, sleep, and academic efficacy across ninth and 10th grades. Multilevel mediation models indicated that higher levels of peer victimization during ninth grade predicted increased daytime dysfunction and sleep disturbances at the beginning of 10th grade, which, in turn, predicted poorer academic efficacy by mid-year of 10th grade. No significant indirect effects were found for the models testing sleep duration and latency as mediators. The findings highlight specific dimensions of sleep as potential modifiable targets for interventions that could mitigate the harmful impact of peer victimization on adolescents’ academic efficacy.
Immunohistochemical expression of TLR1, TLR2, TLR4, and TLR9 in the different types of lesions associated with bovine paratuberculosis
Authors: Zapico David , Espinosa José , Criado Miguel , Gutiérrez Daniel , Ferreras María del Carmen , Benavides Julio , Pérez Valentín , Fernández Miguel
Published: December 2024

The factors that determine the appearance of the different pathologic forms associated with bovine paratuberculosis are not fully understood, but new research suggests a critical role of innate immunity. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) trigger the recognition of invading pathogens by innate immune cells and the onset of specific immune responses. The aim of this work was to assess, immunohistochemically, the expression of TLR1, TLR2, TLR4, and TLR9 in intestinal samples of 20 cows showing different types of paratuberculous lesions: uninfected controls, focal lesions, paucibacillary, and multibacillary diffuse forms. The majority of labeled cells were morphologically consistent with macrophages. A differential cell count was performed in the intestinal lamina propria, gut-associated lymphoid tissue, and mesenteric lymph node. TLR9 immunolabeling between the different types of lesions was compared using a complete H-score. Focal and diffuse paucibacillary forms contained significantly increased TLR2-expressing macrophages outside of the lesions compared with the controls and diffuse multibacillary forms, and moderate TLR9 immunolabeling within granulomas. In the multibacillary granulomatous lesions, the expression of TLR1 and TLR4 was observed as well as increased TLR9 expression compared with the rest of the groups. Differences in the predominance of one type or another of TLR allows us to elucidate the importance of the innate immune response and its possible role in the development of the different types of paratuberculosis lesions.
Misandry, authorities, and gender politics on Weibo: A discourse analytic case study of the 2022 Tangshan restaurant attack in China
Authors: Hou Yiran
Published: December 2024

Drawing upon a case study of the 2022 Tangshan attack, this study examines misandry voices in Chinese social media against the backdrop of official gender discourse. Applying feminist post-structuralism and critical discourse analysis, it analyzes misandry comments and state-run media posts collected from Weibo to uncover the power dynamics in (re)constructing local gender politics. The findings reveal that misandry comments equip speakers with gendered and political agency to challenge the authoritative narratives that fixate on women as static subjects, unmask the structuralist oppression of women to undermine the authorities’ control over gender politics embedded in nationalist propaganda, and disrupt dominant narratives of male heroism in response to the official adherence to essentialist interpretations of gender. This study also highlights the subversive potential of Chinese social media in creating affective heterotopias to advance cyberfeminist causes and offers insights into addressing gender antagonism in China.
Secret Student: Considerations for Implementation of a TikTok Trend
Authors: Enders Olivia G.
Published: December 2024

TikTok has gained in popularity across teachers. One TikTok trend related to classroom management is called “Secret Student.” Secret Student aims to improve classroom behavior by rewarding an anonymous, randomly chosen student. In this article, I describe common practices and variations of the Secret Student intervention as well as considerations for implementation for students with emotional and behavioral disorders. I also discuss a model for how educators can analyze social media trends by using related research and knowledge of behavioral principles.
Un/learning racism in the business school: Recovering embodiments of the hidden curriculum for re-humanising management education
Authors: Dar Sadhvi , Faria Alexandre
Published: December 2024

Contributing to a growing number of studies that interrogate management learning from the vantage of race, this article engages the concept of the ‘hidden curriculum’ to explore the concealed, informal and relational pedagogies of the business school that shape and govern racist educational settings. Beyond describing these processes, we share a self-investigative method that presents a description of the second author’s time as a student at a British business school. By co-writing and then sharing this story with the reader, we highlight how the process of unlearning evolves in relation with learnt racial knowledges. Unlearning racism requires a collective and individual re-imagining of humanness whereby the racial categories of the non-human/Black person are fully shattered within as well as through persistent and courageous method-making among members of our scholarly community.