bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A saúde do currículo escolar em angola Contributos para uma compreensão e reflexão crítica
Authors: Julião António Luis
Published: July 2024

A educação, que tem estado a enfrentar novos desafios em quase todo mundo, é o coração que bombeia o sangue do desenvolvimento de qualquer sociedade. O currículo, como o pulmão do processo educativo, precisa sintonizar-se aos tempos que pululam, tendo em conta as necessidades reais de cada região. Inserida nesta lógica, o artigo 105º, da Lei nº 17/16 de 7 de outubro do Sistema Educativo angolano contrasta com esse raciocínio ao colocar a tónica num currículo monocultural e de cumprimento obrigatório para um contexto plural e multifacetado. Neste sentido, o presente artigo propõe lançar um olhar crítico e reflexivo sobre a vitalidade do currículo angolano, gerando novas lentes de compreensão e subsídios no domínio da investigação sobre as questões curriculares. Os procedimentos metodológicos que nortearam a pesquisa foram o método dedutivo com abordagem qualitativa, pesquisa bibliográfica e documental, utilizando como colecta de dados, fontes primárias e secundárias por meio da revisão de literatura. No âmbito da tirania da inevitabilidade, os dados sugerem que, o currículo angolano, de tradição centralista e monocultural, precisa de alguns cuidados especiais, por possuir uma impressão digital ditatorial, por funcionar como uma camisa de força, por não dialogar com as diferentes culturas, desconsiderando as especificidades regionais, os talentos e os interesses, tanto dos alunos, quanto dos contextos, impondo-lhes de forma dissimulada uma cultura alienígena. Para isso, propomos a ressignificação das políticas e práticas curriculares assentes num currículo nacional de força mínima e partilhada, de inspiração multicultural, abrindo espaços para ecoar a voz e o grito das diferentes culturas, se quisermos desenvolver tanto as comunidades, quanto a qualidade do nosso sistema educativo.
First principle investigation of Sr and Eu doped La2NiMnO6: Structural, Electronic, Optical, Magnetic, and Spintronics properties
Authors: Firdous S. ,   Department of Chemistry, Singhania University, Rajasthan, India, Malik G. F. A. , Parveen N. , Khanday F. A. , Pandey I. K. ,   Department of Electronics and Instrumentation Technology, University of Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir, India,   Department of Electronics, Islamia College of Science and Commerce, Jammu and Kashmir, India,   Department of Electronics and Instrumentation Technology, University of Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir, India,   Department of Chemistry, Singhania University, Rajasthan, India
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the effects of substituting La₂NiMnO₆ (LNMO) with Strontium (Sr) and Europium (Eu) dopants at the A-site, focusing on changes in material properties. Utilizing Density Functional Theory (DFT) with Local Density Approximation and Hubbard U Correction (LDA + U), we analyze the significant impact of these dopants on LNMO's optical, magnetic, electrical, and spintronic properties. Sr and Eu doping modifies the electronic structure of LNMO, enhancing its dielectric properties, which is crucial for applications requiring a high dielectric constant. The improved optical conductivity of doped LNMO makes it more efficient in light absorption and photoconductivity, beneficial for optoelectronic devices. Doping also enhances the magnetic properties of LNMO, advantageous for spintronics where spin control is essential. These dual improvements in electrical and magnetic properties suggest that Sr and Eu-doped LNMO are highly effective for energy storage technologies. Additionally, the mechanical properties of doped LNMO show improved resilience and stability, key indicators for the durability and longevity of devices. This comprehensive analysis highlights the potential of Sr and Eu-doped LNMO for advancements in spintronics, optoelectronics, and energy storage. The findings provide valuable insights into tuning material properties through doping, paving the way for synthesizing new multifunctional materials. This study not only enhances our understanding of the impact of dopants in double perovskites but also expands possibilities for innovative applications in high-tech fields, offering the potential for creating versatile materials and future innovations.
Effect of Investment Decisions on Efficiency of Deposit Taking Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies in Nairobi County, Kenya
Authors: Kebiro Patric
Published: July 2024

With growing competition globally, SACCOs are directing their energies on investments to enhance their efficiency and so as to survive extreme competition. However, the decision to invest is subjective and a wrong investment decision can lead companies even to bankruptcy. Investment choices can also be made in compliance with the conditions in the markets, the portfolio level divergence, the results of fundamental and technical analysis, along with what the investors and managers expect and prefer. This study’s intent was to determine how investment decisions impact the efficiency of deposit taking SACCOs in Nairobi. The study’s population was all the 43 DT-SACCOs in Nairobi County, Kenya. The independent variable for the study was investment decisions with four measures; investment in real estate, investment in government securities, investment in fixed deposit and investment in shares. The control variables were liquidity, firm size and liquidity. Firm efficiency was the response variable which was the primary focus of the study. The study utilized secondary data from 2014 to 2018 (5 years) on annual basis. A descriptive cross-sectional design together with the multiple linear regression model were used for the analysis of the variables. For this analysis the researcher used the SPSS version 21 software. The findings gave an R-square value of 0.317 meaning that 31.7 percent changes in the efficiency of DT-SACCOs in Nairobi, Kenya can be attributed to the seven selected predictor variables while 68.3 percent changes of efficiency of DT-SACCOs was attributable to other factors outside the scope of the study. It was further revealed that the predictor variables showed a strong correlation with efficiency (R=0.563). ANOVA results show that the F statistic was substantial at 5% level with a p=0.000. This shows the model was suitable for the study to provide an explanation of the variables. The results also showed that investment in real estate, investment in government securities and investment in shares produced positive and statistically substantial values for this study while investment in fixed deposits, liquidity, firm size and age were found to be statistically insignificant determiners of efficiency. This study recommends that measures should be put in place to enhance investment in government securities, real estate and shares as these three have a substantial influence on efficiency of DT-SACCOs in Nairobi.
Keywords: Investment decisions, firm efficiency, liquidity, firm size, firm age
Formulación y evaluación de proyectos industriales
Authors: Esperanza Ruth
Published: July 2024

Las organizaciones contemporáneas se encuentran afectadas por las múltiples transformaciones del contexto en el cual se desempeñan; dichas transformaciones, agregadas a los problemas de funcionamiento interno, se convierten en vectores de cambio demandantes de respuestas y adaptaciones oportunas de sus sistemas productivos y de gestión. En un número importante de casos, la efectividad de las soluciones depende de la calidad de las decisiones tomadas con respecto a las inversiones por efectuar.Para orientar este proceso de decisión, un método de formulación y evaluación de alternativas propone una lógica de desarrollo que permite obtener proyectos de inversión aptos para reducir la incertidumbre de la decisión por adoptar; en este libro se desarrolla detalladamente dicho método. Los conceptos más generales, propuestos en un primer momento para el análisis de escenarios de creación de nuevas unidades productivas, se adaptan posteriormente para su aplicación a los casos frecuentes en los cuales las inversiones son requeridas por organizaciones y empresas en funcionamiento. La ilustración de los conceptos mediante el desarrollo de un conjunto de casos prácticos es igualmente un rasgo distintivo de esta obra.
Paz en crisis
Authors: García Ricardo , Andrés Jaime , Fernando Hugo , Hernández Mauricio
Published: July 2024

Paz en crisis es un proyecto editorial de largo aliento que ofrece en todos y cada uno de los tomos que conforman la serie (cuatro en total) perspectivas multidisciplinares y multidimensionales, pluralidad metodológica y variedad en las maneras de hacer investigación. Los tomos, en su conjunto, presentan reflexiones diversas sobre las antiguas, múltiples y nuevas conflictividades (tanto armadas como no armadas), así como de los diferentes actores (heredados, emergentes y transformados), en el escenario de lo que ha venido refiriéndose por algunos especialistas como una situación de posacuerdo bélico en Colombia.El primer tomo de la serie lleva por título Nociones, acuerdo e implementación, analiza la situación actual de la paz, la democracia, la seguridad y el ejercicio de los derechos en Colombia, demostrando que lejos de las aspiraciones de estabilización y avance contenidas en los acuerdos, es una renovada y multimodal conflictividad la que define el contexto nacional. En este tomo se apunta a debatir nociones conceptuales y aproximaciones a problemáticas particulares, que resultan relevantes en el marco contextual de crisis que atraviesa la implementación de los acuerdos de paz alcanzados en La Habana.
Privilegios, méritos y obediencias
Authors: Gómez Diana
Published: July 2024

En el marco de la abundante literatura sobre las relaciones familia y escuela desarrollada por la sociología de la educación y otras disciplinas sociales, este trabajo se planteó como punto de parti- da el interés por indagar el papel que puede jugar una instancia como la familia frente a la definición de la educación como un proyecto que involucra a una sociedad en su conjunto. Interés que surgió de un contexto social y escolar que, como el de la ciudad de Bogotá, capital del país, ha sido caracterizado por mantener en el tiempo marcadas brechas e inequidades. A partir de un enfoque sociohistórico basado en una sociología de las prácticas educativas, estudiamos los modos como las familias de distintos orígenes sociales pusieron en marcha el proceso educativo de sus hijos, la manera como se hicieron a la escue- la y los vínculos que establecieron en distintos momentos históricos con esta institución. Todo lo cual se constituyó en un esfuerzo por interrogar las incidencias de los modos de relacionamiento práctico o cotidiano entre la familia y la escuela en la definición de unos cometi- dos sociales de la educación.
VehiWalnut: Smart Fuel Management with Real-Time Data and User Interaction
Authors: Regin R. , Gaayathri R. S. , Paramasivan P. , Rajest S. Suman , Radwan Radwa
Published: July 2024

This research paper examines the creation and execution of VehiWalnut, a cutting-edge system developed to enhance fuel management processes. VehiWalnut incorporates cutting-edge technologies such as data visualization, cloud-based chatbot evaluation, and deep learning to improve efficiency and user satisfaction. A thorough literature review is conducted to identify important studies in data visualization, Web API analysis, chatbot performance evaluation, and deep learning techniques for machine learning chatbots. These studies are then combined to form the basis of the research. The text describes the development of VehiWalnut, emphasizing its diverse functionalities and the use of the Python programming language for its implementation. The system allows users to enter fuel fill-up data through WhatsApp messages, which are processed using regular expressions to extract and insert the data into a SQLite database. VehiWalnut allows users to request detailed reports on fuel expenses, timing of fuel refills, predictions for the next refill date, and other related information. The system’s effectiveness is assessed by conducting case studies and performance evaluations, showcasing its capacity to enhance fuel management procedures for individual and commercial users. The research findings offer valuable insights into incorporating advanced technologies to improve fuel management systems, thereby paving the way for future advancements in this domain.
STRENGTHENING RULE OF LAW TO CONTROL CRIME : A CROSS COUNTRY ANALYSIS
Authors: Pai Anuradha S , Shinkre Shantanu R , Bhattacharjee Dr. Nairita
Published: July 2024

Economists have studied the psychology of crime and how individuals react to changes in the economy. One basic idea is laws are enacted to lower down crime rates and discourage potential offenders from committing crimes. This research analyses how the effect of rule of law on crime index variates in countries with different unemployment rates. The paper uses a cross-country analysis of high, moderate and low unemployment rate countries to examine the relation between rule of law and crime index. Further, we see how migration and unemployment rate affects crime index. This paper investigates how the effect variates in different countries and if the variables have a negative, null or positive effect on levels of crime. In this paper, we examine and clarify the relationship between rule of law, migration, unemployment rates and crime index over the period 2012–2020 by developing a model that depicts the structural effect of these variables on the crime index of a country using panel data regression. Through this research, we find that the rule of law has a negative impact on the crime index. Further, we find that migration and unemployment have a positive impact on the crime index.
The experience of love and romantic choices
Authors: Celli Anna , Malangone Giovanna
Published: July 2024

We have found ourselves quite often involved in conversations with our clients about romantic love. Considering how crucially important love choices are in people’s lives, we try to approach and comprehend the theme of romantic love within the perspective of hermeneutic constructivism, focusing on the relational aspect inherent in our way of experiencing and transcending the “I-you” dichotomy. Thus, referring to the theoretical framework of Kelly’s Psychology of Personal Constructs according to which subjectivity is essentially “relational", we will be able to explore the love experience in romantic relationships in terms of “elaborative choice”.
Fairy tales, metaphors and other fictions
Authors: Guerra Carlo
Published: July 2024

This paper, after a brief review of the ways in which metaphor has been defined in philosophy, linguistics and poetics, lists a synthesis of its main characteristics through the lenses of different psychological approaches. It also proposes a definition of the metaphor using the Psychology of Personal Constructs and suggests its use in clinical practice as a useful tool for both understanding the other and promoting change in psychotherapy. The metaphorical logic of “as if”- understood as a narrative transposition of the rhetorical figure through the telling of plausible stories – is also analyzed
Learning to navigate the imponderable: interview with Massimo Giliberto
Authors: Martinello Miriam , Piovan Giulia , Pistonesi Francesca
Published: July 2024

Massimo Giliberto, psychologist and psychotherapist, is Director and Professor of Institute of Constructivist Psychology (ICP) of Padua. Besides teaching, he works as private psychotherapist and counselor for companies. Previously he held the roles of prison psychologist, consultant at Padua Military Hospital and Honorary Judge at the Juvenile Court of Venice. Author of several publications, he’s dedicated to spreading the constructivist approach both as a member of various e-journals (Journal of Constructivist Psychology and Personal Construct Theory & Practice) and as Editor-in-chief of Rivista Italiana di Costruttivismo. Furthermore, willing to create an international network among constructivist schools, he’s Trainer of the Serbian Constructivist Association (SKA) and co-founder of the European Constructivist Therapy Network (ECTN). Interested in the development of new learning contexts, he identified sailing – one of his greatest passions – as a useful tool for training. Since then, he’s been a group trainer in Outdoor Training on a sailboat.
Creative acts: Dialogues between PCP and Theatrical Improvisation
Authors: Scalise Claudia
Published: July 2024

Exploring and re-elaborating the meanings and implications of a personal experience of “improvisation” I arrived at Theatrical Improvisation, a discipline that I feel is close to the Personal Construct Psychology (PCP) approach and psychotherapy for some basic constructions. Starting from a quick introduction on the world of Theatrical Improvisation, I will try to bring out and dialogue the elements of commonality that can be traced between the qualities of the Improviser and those of the PCP Psychotherapist, as well as the further possible scenarios resulting from the encounter of these two contexts. I’m concluding my reflections with some research hypotheses for future explorations on the subject.
Socio-pragmatic Aspects of the Kurya Nicknames against First Names Given after Birth
Authors: Simon Chipanda ,   Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Academy
Published: July 2024

This study investigated the socio-pragmatic aspects of nicknames in Kurya, a Bantu language spoken in northwestern Tanzania. The study was motivated by the fact that the available literature on personal names does not offer adequate information about what determines the selection of a Nicknames assigned to a person in the Kurya community and whether nicknames are semantically related to the personal names given after birth. The study employed a qualitative approach and a case study design. Its data were collected through interviews and critical documentary analysis whereby a total of six Kurya nicknames were obtained. The data were then analysed on the basis of Cognitive Semantics Theory and construal principles in particular. The findings indicated that Kidanga, Isokhero, Engoko, Iriraghiri, Esalighoko, Irongo, Bhulenya, Etena, Inchupa, Inchughu, Amaghuha, and Kerabhoko are Kurya nicknames whose assignment was influenced by behaviour, color, structure or articulation. It was noted that most of the Kurya nicknames do not have any symbiotic relationship with their bearers’ first names given after birth; the few which appear to be in a semantic relationship with first names come just by chance. Based on the findings, the study concludes that nicknames have a very important role in any community since they reflect the construal cognition of human nature and nurture. So, communities are advised to value their personal names even though nicknames have taken over. This is because personal names are our official identities and are the ones that are supposed to appear in official documents such as identity cards unless it is stated otherwise.
Ethical Decision-Making in Educational Leadership: Insights from Islamic Scholars
Authors: Setiawan Agus
Published: July 2024

Ethical decision-making in educational leadership is a critical aspect of ensuring effective governance and fostering a positive school climate. Insights drawn from Islamic scholars provide valuable perspectives on moral principles that guide leaders in educational settings. This study explores the ethical considerations and decision-making processes influenced by Islamic teachings among educational leaders. This research aims to investigate how Islamic scholars' insights inform ethical decision-making practices in educational leadership. It seeks to analyze the ethical frameworks advocated by Islamic teachings and their application in contemporary educational contexts. This study employs a literature review approach to examine scholarly articles, books, and Islamic texts that discuss ethical principles relevant to educational leadership. The research focuses on synthesizing and analyzing existing literature to identify key themes, principles, and practices advocated by Islamic scholars in guiding ethical decision-making among school leaders. The findings highlight that Islamic scholars emphasize principles such as justice (adl), compassion (rahma), honesty (sidq), and accountability (mas'uliyyah) as foundational to ethical leadership in education. Ethical decision-making processes are guided by Islamic teachings that prioritize the well-being of stakeholders, fairness in decision outcomes, and adherence to ethical norms. Insights from Islamic scholars offer nuanced perspectives that enrich contemporary discussions on ethical leadership and governance in educational settings
Legal Analysis of Marriage Dispensation Underage in Jagabita Village, Bogor, Using the Compilation of Islamic Law Approach
Authors: Fitri Nuraeni  , Amin Songgirin
Published: July 2024

The analysis focuses on the legal aspects surrounding marriage dispensations for individuals below the age of 19, as outlined in Law Number 16 of 2019, which amends Law Number 1 of 1974 concerning Marriage. According to Article 7, paragraph (1) of the Marriage Law, marriage is permissible only if both the man and woman have reached the age of 19. This provision underscores the necessity of establishing a minimum age for marriage, considering the significant legal implications associated with marital unions, such as alterations in rights and responsibilities. However, a potential ambiguity arises when Article 7, paragraph (1) is juxtaposed with Article 6, paragraph (2) of the same law. While Article 7, paragraph (1) sets forth a minimum age requirement for marriage, Article 6, paragraph (2) does not provide clear legal guidance for individuals seeking marriage before reaching the prescribed age. Despite the provision for dispensation in Article 7, paragraph (2) and Article 6, paragraph (2), some argue that granting dispensations may overlook future familial harmony and reduce the institution of marriage to mere physical fulfillment, contradicting principles of Islamic jurisprudence. Data collection involved observations and interviews with local residents who entered into underage marriages, as well as discussions with the head of the Religious Affairs Office (KUA) of Parung Panjang Subdistrict. The research adopts a socio-legal approach, integrating sociological and juridical perspectives, within a qualitative field research framework. The study aims to comprehend the regulation of marriage dispensation under both civil and Islamic law, examining the consequences of underage marriages in Jagabita Village, Bogor.
Exploring the Nexus of Islamic Modernism and Intellectual Development
Authors: Fauziah Nur
Published: July 2024

This paper discusses Islamic modernism and the development of Islamic intellectualism. The method used is descriptive-analytical method with a historical approach. Its aim is to understand Islamic modernism and the development of Islamic intellectualism. The author finds that: First, Islamic modernism is a renewal of understanding that is more relevant to modern life, interpreting things to open the door of ijtihad and avoid blind adherence to schools of thought by thinking rationally in understanding and reflecting on Islamic teachings. Second, the development of Islamic intellectualism is divided into three eras. Each has a different pattern. The classical era began at the time of the Prophet Muhammad, where the development of Islamic intellectualism was practiced through teaching and education using methods of writing and memorization. In the medieval era, Islamic intellectualism began to flourish. Institutionalization began to emerge through theological movements, Sufism, and schools of thought. Furthermore, in the modern era, there is a struggle within Islamic intellectual tradition. The modern era seeks to eradicate superstition, myths, and innovations that have constrained the Muslim community.
Fútbol in the Park. Immigrants, Soccer, and the Creation of Social Ties
Authors: Escala Rabadán Luis
Published: July 2024

Si bien en los últimos años ha habido un creciente interés por examinar los vínculos entre la práctica deportiva y las migraciones internacionales, a partir de disciplinas como la Sociología, la Antropología, e incluso los Estudios Culturales (véase, por ejemplo, el libro coordinado por Maguire y Falcous, 2011), y en particular entre futbol y migración (véanse por ejemplo los libros coordinados de Alonso y Escala, 2012, y de Elliot y Harris, 2015), dichas aproximaciones suelen ser bastante generales y nos dicen poco sobre las relaciones sociales y diversos significados que los inmigrantes tejen a partir de este deporte. En ese sentido, el libro de David Trouille es una verdadera contribución en este campo de estudios, al examinar con profundidad los diversos tipos de vínculos que construye un conjunto de inmigrantes a partir de darse cita en la cancha de un parque público en la ciudad de Los Ángeles, en California, Estados Unidos, así como también los sentidos que dichos inmigrantes le confieren a la práctica de este juego.
Presentación al monográfico: Teorías y discursos de la otredad.
Authors: Gallego Monzó Joan , Fernández Cárcamo Débora
Published: July 2024

Presentación del monográfico.
The effectiveness of the use of antioxidant formulations in the storage of fat from the Pacific sardines Sardinops melanostictus
Authors: Tabakaeva Oksana V. , Shulgina Lidia V. , Alrajab Mouhamad , Tabakaev Anton V. , Shinkaruk Pavel A. , Stepochkina Varvara D.
Published: July 2024

The potential of both natural and synthetic antioxidants, alone and in combination, to prevent the degradation of highly unsaturated fat isolated from the Pacific sardine, Sardinops melanostictus, during storage has been examined in this study. Accelerated aging methods on fish oil samples, enhanced with individual and combinations of antioxidants, were used. The fish oil was evaluated for quality by analyzing its physicochemical properties, fatty acid composition, and amounts of fat-soluble vitamins. The results showed a notable rise in peroxide value, acid value, and para-anisidine value in fat samples lacking antioxidants. This was accompanied by a decrease of 3.4–5 times in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and 40–80% in fat-soluble vitamins. These findings suggest the presence of ongoing lipid oxidation processes and degradation. The use of specific antioxidants, such as α-tocopherol acetate at a concentration of 2%, betulin at a concentration of 0.3%, and ethoxyvine at a concentration of 0.14%, resulted in a slight decrease in the rate of fat autoxidation and the protection of PUFAs and vitamins. A synergistic effect was observed when α-tocopherol acetate and ethoxyvine, or betulin and ethoxyvine, were combined at half the single levels. This combination improved fish oil oxidation resistance. These antioxidant blends inhibited oxidative processes in unsaturated fish oil using salicylic acid amide. This slowed omega-3 PUFA and fat-soluble vitamin breakdown.
Rare Continuity Revisited via δb-open Sets
Authors: Şengül Uğur , Soğukoğlu Hatice
Published: July 2024

In this paper we introduce and study the concept of rare δb-continuity in topological spaces as a generalization of rare continuity and weak δb-continuity. We investigate several properties of rarely δb-continuous functions. Rare δb-continuity implied by rare δ-continuity and implies rare b-continuity. We also introduce the concept of I.δb-continuity, which is weaker than δb-continuity and stronger than rare δb-continuity.
Ameliorative Effect of Zingiber officinale Ethanol Extract on Chromium-induced Male Reprotoxicity in Wistar Rat
Authors: Zerarki Nour , Berroukche Abdelkrim , Boudou Farouk
Published: July 2024

This study explored the protective effects of oral ginger extract against chromium trioxide (CrO3)-induced male reprotoxicity in Wistar albino rats. Rats exposed to CrO3 for 8 weeks showed significant declines in body weight (11.67 ± 3.78 g), serum testosterone levels (6.45 ± 1.35 ng/mL), Glutathione (GSH) level (17.29 ± 1.96 μM/mg), and catalase activity (9.54 ± 0.11 mM H2O2/min/mg), with no notable change in relative testicular weight. Conversely, ginger extract-treated rats exhibited substantial improvements, including increased body weight (45.33 ± 09.11 g), enhanced GSH levels in testicular tissue (24.02 ± 1.69 μM/g), and improved catalase activity (11.56 ± 1.25 mM H2O2/min/mg). However, concurrent CrO3 and Z. officinale extract treatment showed no significant changes in testosterone levels. Z. officinale extract, due to its high content of polyphenols (194.82 ± 8.57 mg GAE/g d.w.), and flavonoids (117.20 ± 48.61 mg CE/g d.w.) with significant antioxidant value (IC50 = 0.57 ± 0.14 mg/ml), showed a remarkable ameliorative effect against chromium-induced male reprotoxicity.
Application of the VIKOR Method for Selecting the Purpose of Recultivated Terrain after the End of Coal Mining
Authors: Gaćina Radmila , Bajić Sanja , Dimitrijević Bojan , Šubaranović Tomislav , Beljić Čedomir , Bajić Dragoljub
Published: July 2024

Surface mining of coal has a negative impact on the environment that needs to be prevented, reduced, controlled, monitored by applying the management of technological processes of technical and biological recultivation after the end of exploitation works. The paper deals with the problem of multi-criteria decision-making in the process of selection of indicators that have an impact on the choice of purpose of recultivated terrain after the end of coal mining. The considered reclamation solutions represent possible alternatives. Degraded areas need to be returned to their original purpose, they should be in the function of environmental protection of the natural environment and settlements near this location. In addition, various criteria and sub-criteria that affect the choice of the most favourable solution were defined and analyzed. The final decision on land use after exploitation was made based on mathematical calculations using the multi-criteria VIKOR method.
Anaesthetic Challenges in Paediatric Hepatoblastoma Resection: A Case Report
Authors: Gill Fateh Pal Singh , Suryawanshi Chhaya M , Ubhe Smita , Patil Deepali , Sharma Vipul Krishen
Published: July 2024

The most common primary liver tumour in children is hepatoblastoma, which is often diagnosed in the first three years of life. While the majority of hepatoblastomas are sporadic, some associations are reported with genetic disorders like BeckwithWiedemann syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis. The annual incidence of hepatoblastoma in children has gradually increased during the past three decades. Babies born prematurely, weighing <1 kg, have been found to be significantly more likely to acquire hepatoblastoma. The most common symptoms with which children present are abdominal discomfort, easy fatigability, loss of appetite, and anaemia. The choice of treatment is surgical resection of the mass or surgical resection coupled with chemotherapy. Present case is of a seven-month-old, 7 kg infant who presented with a gradually increasing abdominal mass diagnosed as hepatoblastoma. Left hepatectomy was done under general anaesthesia and epidural analgesia. Liver resection is one of the major surgical procedures that carries a risk of blood loss and pulmonary embolism, but improved expertise in paediatric anaesthesia and surgical skills have reduced operative risk. The challenges in this case were securing vascular access, maintaining blood volume with considerable fluid and blood loss, and assuring haemodynamic stability. Maintenance of normothermia, glucose levels, and effective pain management were all crucial, necessitating careful planning and a multidisciplinary approach to maximise results and guarantee patient safety
Between Exchange Rate Returns and Crude Oil Returns in Oil-Importing Countries
Authors: Umoru David , Ogbeifun Kelvin , Igbinovia Beauty
Published: July 2024

Fluctuations in the financial markets stem from the reactions of investors to both market activities and more wide-ranging macroeconomic indices. This research examines the interconnectivity between returns on exchange rates and crude oil prices for ten oil-importing countries. Quarterly data spanning the period from 2000Q1 to 2022Q4 was used in the estimation. Returns had to be calculated from raw data, which were exchange rates and crude oil prices. The research methodologies include quantile regression and VAR-GARCH estimations. The study revealed a long-term association between crude oil market returns and foreign exchange markets, with currency fluctuations negatively impacting crude oil returns. The spill-over effect from the currency market to the oil market is weaker than the transmission effect from the oil market to the currency market of oil-importing countries. In particular, it was empirically established that shocks from past volatility in the currency markets of countries that import oil had commensurately lower volatility in the oil market by 6 percent. Whereas, the spillover from the crude oil market to the currency market depicts that increased turbulence on the crude oil market in the current period stimulated 55.66 percent amplified volatility in the currency market for oil-importing nations. Oil returns had a volatility persistence value of 0.1255, ratifying the weak volatility persistence of oil returns. The size of the volatility persistence of exchange rate returns is 0.997, an indication of high volatility persistence for currency returns. The study found the absence of leverage effects for currency values given a positive coefficient with a magnitude of 0.8529. In other words, bad news does not cause higher turbulence in exchange rate returns than good news will. For crude oil returns, the size of the leverage effects term is -0.0529, which is negative and significant (p<.05), implying that bad news in oil-importing economies has asymmetric impacts on the volatility of returns on crude oil prices. In effect, the oil price returns react more strongly to bad news than these returns react to good news. The findings of the study underscore the intricate relationships between local currencies and energy prices within the context of a global financial market, highlighting the significance of understanding these dynamics for effective decision-making and risk management in an increasingly interconnected world. It was recommended, among others, that international collaboration amongst countries is crucial given the global nature of energy markets.
Impact of Employer Branding on Job Satisfaction: A Conceptual Framework
Authors: Farooq Baziga , Mushtaq Nabila , Naseer Peerzada Munaqib , Hakim Iqbal Ahmad
Published: July 2024

Purpose: Over the years, organisations have gained an immense realisation that employees are their biggest source of competitive advantage. Apart from attracting, recruiting, and selecting the best employees, organisations need to find ways to motivate and retain them as well. To do so, they need to cater to the needs of both current and prospective employees. The aim of the study is to provide a comprehensive review of the concept of employer branding and its relationship with job satisfaction.           
Research Method: The study reviewed empirical papers, review studies, and conference papers published in peer reviewed journals that are indexed in various databases related to employer branding and job satisfaction.
Findings: The findings of the study reveal that employer branding involves all the strategies that an organisation undertakes in order to elevate its reputation in the eyes of its current employees by virtue of its unique employee value proposition and also create a positive image in the minds of their prospective employees by highlighting various monetary and non-monetary benefits for getting associated with the brand. Also, organisation in their quest to attract and retain talented workforce have realised the importance of employer branding. The study also reveals that when employers prioritize meeting employee expectations, such as offering career advancement prospects and equitable remuneration, while still satisfying their own commitments, it fosters a sense of fairness and trust that eventually results in job satisfaction.
Implications: The study offers practical implications for organisations and human resource professionals. The organisations should reflect on the expectations of the workforce in order to foster a sense of belonging among the employees and increase job satisfaction. These expectations may be related to work-life balance, career development opportunities, an inclusive work culture, fair compensations, recognition and appreciation for their efforts.
Originality: The study emphasises the crucial role of employer branding and its various dimensions on employee job satisfaction in organisations as well as in higher educational institutions. Further, different empirical studies can use the developed conceptual framework to examine the relationship between employer branding and job satisfaction.
Evaluation of Antibiotic Prescribing Practices in Surgical Departments at the University Hospital Center-Yalgado Ouedraogo, Burkina Faso
Authors: Ouedraogo Gafourou Arsène , Sawadogo Abdoulaye , Ouédraogo Aboubacar , Gnamou Arouna , Sanfo Salamata , Zonon Hamadé , Diendéré Eric Arnaud , Savadogo Mamoudou , Diallo Ismaël , Sondo Apoline Kongnimissom
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Inappropriate use of antibiotics is one of the main causes of the emergence of antibiotic resistance in sub-Saharan Africa. To contribute to better antibiotic prescribing, the aim of this work was to evaluate prescribing in the surgery and surgical specialties department at the University Hospital Center Yalgado Ouedraogo (CHU-YO).
Methods: This was a prospective cross-sectional study from December 15 to 21, 2021. Patients hospitalized in the surgical department were included. Compliance guidelines were the recommendations of the SFAR and the guide to good antibiotic prescribing in Burkina Faso.
Results: A total of 162 patients were hospitalized during the study period, of whom 97 were included. The prevalence of antibiotic prescriptions was 59.9%. Curative antibiotic therapy accounted for 66% of prescriptions, while all surgical patients received antibiotic prophylaxis. The β-lactam family was prescribed in 88.5% of cases for prophylaxis and 91.3% for curative treatment. Ceftriaxone was prescribed in 71.3% of cases for prophylaxis and 44.9% for curative antibiotic therapy. Overall compliance was 22.3% for antibiotic prophylaxis and 49.3% for antibiotic therapy. Non-compliance with antibiotic prophylaxis was linked to an inappropriate choice of antibiotic for prophylaxis, and to unjustified prescribing for antibiotic therapy.
Conclusion: Capacity-building for prescribers and the development of guidelines could help improve the appropriateness of antibiotic use at CHU-YO.
A Scientific Computing Analysis of Financial Black-Scholes and Monte Carlo Differential Equation: An American Option
Authors: Akintola Samson Oluyomi
Published: July 2024

This study presents a systematic computing analysis of financial models, precisely focusing on the Black-Scholes and Monte Carlo derivative equations, to evaluate American options. American selections are exercised at any time before expiration, posing unique challenges in financial modelling due to their complex early exercise features. The Black-Scholes formulation gives a foundational framework for choice pricing, utilizing partial derivative formulations to estimate the fair value of options under definite assumptions. Nevertheless, because of its restriction, Monte Carlo computations are taken to give a better simulation scheme to overcome the posed challenges by computing wider likely underlying price path assets. This study implements a computationa approach to compare the efficacy of the Black-Scholes formulation and Monte Carlo methods in selected American pricing. A numerical scheme for solving the Black-Scholes derivative systems and a variance reduction technique for enhancing the effectiveness of Monte Carlo simulations are adopted. Our analysisl reveals that while the Black-Scholes model provides a useful approximation, Monte Carlo simulations deliver more accurate and flexible results for American options, especially in scenarios with substantial volatility and early exercise potential. The outcomes underscore the importance of sophisticated numerical methods in financial engineering and highlight the trade-offs between analytical tractability and numerical precision.
Comparison of Postoperative Analgesia between a Femoral Nerve Block with Local Infiltration Analgesia and a Suprainguinal Fascia Iliaca Compartment Block with Local Infiltration Analgesia for Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Prospective, Randomized, Open Label Trial
Authors: Urabe Shigehiko , Terao Yoshiaki , Soejima Yuki , Iwanaga Hiroki , Oji Natsuko , Oji Makito , Hara Tetsuya
Published: July 2024

Aims: This study aimed to compare the analgesic efficacy between a suprainguinal fascia iliaca compartment (SFIC) block with local infiltration analgesia (LIA) and a femoral nerve (FN) block with LIA in patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty (THA).
Study Design: Prospective, randomized, open-label trial.
Place and Duration of Study: Department of Anesthesia, Nagasaki Rosai Hospital, Sasebo, Japan between May 2023 and March 2024.
Methodology: A total of 50 patients who underwent THA under total intravenous anesthesia using propofol were included in this study. The patients were randomly divided into two groups: Group F (n=25), which received an ultrasound-guided FN block with 30 mL of 0.25% levobupivacaine and Group S (n= 25), which received an ultrasound-guided SFIC block with 30 mL of 0.25% levobupivacaine. After fascial closure, both groups were administered 20 mL of 0.25% levobupivacaine on the incision line. All patients received 1000 mg intravenous acetaminophen prior to the end of the operation and at 6, 12, 18, and 24 h after the operation, and in those who needed it, diclofenac sodium 50 mg was used as a rescue analgesic. The nursing staff evaluated the postoperative pain using a numerical rating scale (NRS) at rest at 0, 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 h postoperatively and the number of analgesic requirements postoperatively.
Results: No significant differences were found between the two groups in terms of patient characteristics, except for the intraoperative fluid balance (1020 (783-1115) vs. 680 (570-980) ml,P = .01). Moreover, during the study period, no significant differences were observed between the two groups in the NRS scores (P = .25) and the number of rescue analgesic requirements (P =1.0).
Conclusion: Both the FN block with LIA and SFIC block with LIA would have an equivalent adjunctive analgesic effect after THA.
Hydraulic Fracturing
Authors: Valkó Peter
Published: April 2014

Hydraulic fracturing is a well completion/stimulation technique that became the focus of attention because of its significance in the exploitation of unconventional oil and gas reserves. This article starts with a brief history of the operation, followed by a discussion of its unique role in productivity enhancement. Following the overview of materials, equipment, and procedures involved, a review of the diagnostics and other evaluation methods, as well as an outline of the current modeling efforts, will be discussed. One section provides a glimpse into the newest trends in completion hardware, highlighting multistage fracture treatment systems developed for long horizontal wells. In the last section, the commercial and environmental impacts of the technology are considered. The article concludes that hydraulic fracturing has substantially widened the spectrum of choices communities face in arbitrating among potential energy supply options, and hence, it will continue flourishing in the long term.
Influences of glacier melt and permafrost thaw on the age of dissolved organic carbon in the Yukon River basin
Authors: Aiken George R. , Spencer Robert G. M. , Striegl Robert G. , Schuster Paul F. , Raymond Peter A.
Published: April 2014

Responses of near‐surface permafrost and glacial ice to climate change are of particular significance for understanding long‐term effects on global carbon cycling and carbon export by high‐latitude northern rivers. Here we report Δ14C‐dissolved organic carbon (DOC) values and dissolved organic matter optical data for the Yukon River, 15 tributaries of the Yukon River, glacial meltwater, and groundwater and soil water end‐member sources draining to the Yukon River, with the goal of assessing mobilization of aged DOC within the watershed. Ancient DOC was associated with glacial meltwater and groundwater sources. In contrast, DOC from watersheds dominated by peat soils and underlain by permafrost was typically enriched in Δ14C indicating that degradation of ancient carbon stores is currently not occurring at large enough scales to quantitatively influence bulk DOC exports from those landscapes. On an annual basis, DOC exported was predominantly modern during the spring period throughout the Yukon River basin and became older through summer‐fall and winter periods, suggesting that contributions of older DOC from soils, glacial meltwaters, and groundwater are significant during these months. Our data indicate that rapidly receding glaciers and increasing groundwater inputs will likely result in greater contributions of older DOC in the Yukon River and its tributaries in coming decades.
Deformation mechanisms and rheology of serpentines in experiments and in nature
Authors: Amiguet Elodie , Van De Moortèle Bertrand , Cordier Patrick , Hilairet Nadège , Reynard Bruno
Published: April 2014

Microstructures in serpentine samples recovered from deformation experiments performed at high pressure (1–8 GPa), high temperature (150–500°C), and laboratory strain rates (4 10−4–10−6 s−1) were studied using transmission electron microscopy on thin sections prepared by focused ion beam. Lizardite crystals deform by easy glide along the basal planes associated with microkink. This mechanism is associated with a plastic strength of ~100 MPa that defines the upper bound of lizardite strength in natural conditions. Antigorite crystals deform essentially by conjugated slip along (101) and planes observed in sections close to (010). This conjugate system results in an apparent global slip system akin to [100](001). In all samples, delamination and comminution produce fine‐grained interconnected regions at grain boundaries because intracrystalline deformation mechanisms are insufficient to satisfy the von Mises criterion. The deformation laws of lizardite (plastic flow) and antigorite (strain rate dependent) differ because of their differing intracrystalline deformation mechanisms. Subgrain boundary geometry in natural samples and [100](001) crystal preferred orientations indicate the activation of slip systems similar to those observed in experimentally deformed samples, suggesting that the strain rate‐dependent rheology of antigorite derived from experiments applies to subduction zone conditions. Delamination of antigorite crystals of a few tens to hundreds of nanometers is not observed in natural samples from subduction zones, suggesting plastic deformation of serpentinites at natural low strain rates and stresses is likely accompanied by recrystallization through dissolution‐precipitation processes that act as a low‐temperature equivalent of dynamic recrystallization through diffusion at high temperature.