bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lights on music cognition: a systematic and critical review of fNIRS applications and future perspectives
Authors: Curzel Federico , Tillmann Barbara , Ferreri Laura
Published: April 2024

Research investigating the neural processes related to music perception and production constitutes a well-established field within the cognitive neurosciences. While most neuroimaging tools have limitations in studying the complexity of musical experiences, Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) represents a promising, relatively new tool for studying music processes in both laboratory and ecological settings, which is also suitable for both typical and pathological populations across development. Here we systematically review fNIRS studies on music cognition, highlighting prospects and potentialities. We also include an overview of fNIRS’ basic theory, together with a brief comparison to characteristics of other neuroimaging tools. Fifty-nine studies meeting inclusion criteria (i.e., using fNIRS with music as the primary stimulus) are presented across five thematic sections. Critical discussion of methodology leads to propose guidelines of good practices aiming for robust signal analyses and reproducibility. A continuously updated world map with elemental information from studies meeting the inclusion criteria aims to establish an organized, accessible, and updatable reference database, also facilitating future collaborations within the community. In conclusion, fNIRS shows potential for investigating cognitive processes in music, in particular in ecological contexts and with special populations, aligning with current research priorities in music cognition.
AI-assisted audio-learning improves academic achievement through motivation and reading engagement
Authors: Jafarian N.R. , Kramer Anne-Wil
Published: April 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming education by enabling the creation of innovative learning resources that may cater to diverse learning needs. One such resource is audio content, which provides a flexible and accessible supplement to traditional educational content. While audio content, such as podcasts, is widely popular, its effect on academic achievement remains underexplored. This pre-registered randomized controlled trial investigated the impact of AI-assisted audio-learning modules on academic achievement, with a particular focus on the mediating roles of motivation and reading engagement. Results showed that the audio-learning modules increased student motivation and reading engagement. Importantly, audio-learning driven increases in motivation and reading engagement boosted academic achievement. Furthermore, students with greater ADHD symptom severity particularly benefited from the audio-learning modules, as they played a crucial role in determining course success. Together, this study highlights the potential of AI-assisted audio-learning modules as a valuable tool in digital education environments, catering to diverse learning needs and improving educational outcomes.
Non-verbal rationality? 2-year-old children, dogs and pigs show unselective responses to unreliability, but to different degrees
Authors: Blakey Kirsten H , Rafetseder Eva , Melis Giacomo , Veit Ariane , Amelung Kea , Freudensprung Franziska , Kovacs Kinga , Virányi Zsófia
Published: April 2024

Some philosophers argue that reflection is key to rational thinking. By tying reflective thinking to language, they struggle to account for minimally verbal infants and exclude non-human animals. This study assesses processing of undermining defeaters – a basic form of reflective thinking – in 36 two-year-old British children (13 female; 98% White), 39 dogs, and 21 pigs. Subjects observed informants act on two screens: one informant’s actions reliably indicated the reward location, while the others did not. Twice informants switched actions, prompting subjects to infer the reliability of the informants. Subjects did not respond differently to the Reliable and Unreliable informants. However, reduced willingness to follow informants’ indications in later trials suggests a response to uncertainty or an undermining defeater.
Addressing Power Relations in Health Psychology Research
Authors: Blöchl Maria , Brütt Anna Levke , Emmer Christine , Tomberge Vica
Published: April 2024

This report provides insights from the roundtable “Addressing and Overcoming Power Relations in Health Psychology (Research): An Interactive Discussion” at the European Health Psychology Society conference 2023 in Bremen. The overarching goal of the roundtable was to take a collaborative perspective on issues of power in health psychology: How do power relations affect our research? How can we move towards a more just and equitable health psychology?
Artificial Intelligence Quotient (AIQ)
Authors: Qin Xin , Lu Jackson G. , Chen Chen , Zhou Xiang , Gan Yuqing , Li Wanlu , Song Lesley Luyang
Published: April 2024

We introduce the concept of Artificial Intelligence Quotient (AIQ)—defined as a person’s ability to use AI to perform a wide variety of tasks—and provide evidence for its existence using five studies (archival, lab, and online) across different AIs and samples. Study 1 (an 18-year global dataset of human+AI chess tournaments) and Study 2 (a three-wave longitudinal study of human+AI renju games) show that individuals have stable human+AI performance over time (controlling for human’s own capability and AI’s capability), suggesting the existence of a stable human+AI capability. Study 3 shows that a general AIQ factor can be statistically extracted from individuals’ performance on a variety of tasks completed with ChatGPT, a more general AI tool. Besides replicating Study 3’s findings in larger samples, Study 4 and Study 5 (preregistered) show that the extracted AIQ factor has both concurrent validity and prospective validity. Regarding concurrent validity, the extracted AIQ factor can predict human+AI performance on a new task using the same AI (ChatGPT) on the same day. Regarding prospective validity, the extracted AIQ factor can predict human+AI performance on other new tasks using different AIs (renju AI or Gemini) in the future. Across studies, we ascertain the unique explanatory power of AIQ by controlling for individual’s IQ, social intelligence (SQ), AI literacy (knowledge about AI), and/or computer literacy. We also explored potential correlates of AIQ (e.g., personality traits, previous AI use, and demographics). Together, our findings suggest that AIQ exists and is measurable. By establishing this new type of intelligence (AIQ), we shed light on individual differences in the ability to use AI, which is increasingly important for individuals, organizations, and society.
Learning of Concepts: A Review of Relevant Advances Since 2010 and Its Inspirations for Teaching
Authors: Zhong WANG
Published: April 2024

This article reviews the psychological and neuroscience achievements in concept learning since 2010 from the perspectives of individual learning and social learning, and discusses several issues related to concept learning, including the assistance of machine learning on this issue. 1. In terms of individual learning, current evidence shows that the brain tends to process concrete concepts through typical features (shared features); And abstract concepts, semantic processing is the most important cognitive way. In terms of social learning, Interpersonal Neuro Synchronization (INS) is considered the main indicator of efficient knowledge transfer (such as teaching activities between teachers and students), but this phenomenon only broadens the channels for concept sources and does not change the basic mode of individual concept learning. Ultimately, this article argues that the way the human brain processes concepts depends on their own characteristics, so there are no "better" strategies in teaching, only more "suitable" strategies.
ICT4D and Sustainability
Authors: Marais Mario Alphonso
Published: April 2024

Sustainability is a systems concept, and ICT4D plays a vital role in a sustainable earth, as well as in sustainable communities. The concept of resilience is introduced since rapid change can push a system into another, possibly undesirable state. Resilience is the capacity of a system to absorb disturbance. ICTs play a key role in the decoupling of economic development from the use of natural resources, by reducing the energy use of economic processes. ICT4D has moved to the use of ICTs as a platform for transformative development. This development must start with human development, since technology is only a multiplier of human intent and capacity and cannot substitute for it. Human scale development strategies are discussed where self-reliant relationships are built via a network of aligned interests. These, in turn, are built from the bottom up and are supported via networks that span the local, regional and national levels.
Assets and infrastructures
Authors: Golka Philipp
Published: April 2024

Assets are central for the functioning of financial markets but have, to date, seen only little attention from scholars of financial infrastructures. This chapter seeks to address this shortcoming and argues that assets are important mediators between financial activity and financial infrastructures. To this end, this chapter draws on the notion of ‘boundary objects’ from science and technology studies to analyze the manifold interactions enabled by the asset form. To investigate the links between assets and financial infrastructures in more detail, this chapter distinguishes three stages in the lifecycle of assets. During assetization, emergent assets mediate between various professions as well as calculative infrastructures that enable their capitalization. During the second stage, asset management, assets mediate between various financial infrastructures and two crucial financial operations: trading, which introduces volatile asset prices, and layering, i.e. the production of new assets from existing assets. The third stage, deassetization, refers to the planned or unplanned dissolution or devaluation of assets and has so far received only little scholarly attention. Mapping and systematizing the manifold interconnections between assets and infrastructures that span across sociology, political economy and economic geography, this chapter also nurtures much-needed cross-disciplinary dialogue.
Socioeconomic Dynamics in Kathmandu Valley: A World-System Perspective
Authors: Khatri Bal Krishna
Published: April 2024

The socioeconomic dynamics of the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal, are analyzed through the lens of World-System Theory, providing insights into its position within the global economic hierarchy. This theoretical framework, pioneered by Immanuel Wallenstein, categorizes nations into core, semi-peripheral, and peripheral regions based on their economic and structural positions in the global system. The Kathmandu Valley's spatial distribution of economic resources illustrates core-periphery dynamics, with urban centers like Kathmandu emerging as core areas boasting robust economic activities, while peripheral regions face marginalization and limited access to economic opportunities. Disparities in infrastructure development further highlight these dynamics, as core areas benefit from superior infrastructure, while peripheral regions contend with limited development, exacerbating urban-rural inequalities. Migration patterns within the Kathmandu Valley reflect responses to economic imbalances perpetuated by the global capitalist system, with rural residents migrating to urban centers in search of opportunities, straining urban infrastructure and widening disparities. Additionally, globalization's impact on cultural dynamics contributes to the homogenization of cultures, eroding traditional practices and identities in favor of Western consumer culture. Social stratification within Nepali society is reinforced by the hierarchical structure of the world-system, perpetuating cycles of privilege and disadvantage. Understanding these dynamics through World-System Theory highlights the interconnectedness of global and local processes, emphasizing the need for systemic change to address disparities and foster equitable development in the Kathmandu Valley.
Transmission Electron Microscopy and Dynamic Light Scattering-Fundamental Perspective
Authors: Yadav Chandradip Kumar , Bhattarai Ajaya , Chaudhary Yogesh
Published: April 2024

Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) are fundamental tools in nanotechnology and materials science, providing information about the structural and dynamic properties of nanomaterials and colloidal systems. This review provides a thorough examination of TEM and DLS, beginning with a discussion of their fundamental principles. It discusses the interaction of electron beams in TEM and the dynamics of scattered light in DLS, followed by an examination of instrumentation and experimental setups, including recent advances for increased resolution and sensitivity. The article then discusses the numerous applications of TEM and DLS in nanomaterial characterization. It includes analyses of nanoparticle size, shape, morphology, and distribution, as well as research into colloidal system dynamics such as nanoparticle aggregation, diffusion, and stability. The review concludes with a forward-looking perspective on emerging trends and future directions in nanomaterial characterization. It emphasizes the potential of TEM and DLS to overcome current challenges and advance our understanding of nanoscale phenomena. Overall, this comprehensive review provides researchers and practitioners with a solid understanding of the TEM and DLS principles, methodologies, and applications, as well as valuable fundamental insights.
Unfortunately, for now we aren’t the gods of time!..
Authors: Ashursky Emir E.
Published: April 2024

This article is devoted to the overthrow of the idle conjectures of sci-fi writers (and after them some romantically minded astrophysicists), one way or another relating to the notorious time travel. Wherein primary attention here is paid to proof of the absolute conceptual prohibition on moving into the past. After all, according to author’s count, lots of fabrications of the human intelligence are by no means equivalent to the quantity of objects of the so-called Cauchy horizon. And moreover: the ordinal of our generalized spiritual world should be obviously higher than for a similar set of structural elements of the observed cosmos.  In particular, if a number of material objects is N, a manifold of their cogitable combinations may vary from 2n to Nn. But still with that, it does not seem possible, however, to refute (as shown yet by Kurt Gödel) the significant majority of these frankly dubious speculations at a physical & mathematical level. Thus precisely the probabilistic approach (or, if you like, algorithm) is a quite legitimate and the only correct for given case!

And summarizing, the author leads his reader to a quite reasoned conclusion that unraveling the most complex outlook problems of existence, it is better obviously to trust philosophers rather than naturalists or techies!
The equivalency of the Banach-Alaoglu theorem and the axiom of choice
Authors: Kumar Nand Kishor , Raikhola Sher Singh
Published: April 2024

The Axiom of Choice can be used to prove the Banach-Alaoglu theorem, while a weakened form of the Axiom of Choice is required to prove the full strength of the Hahn-Banach theorem, which is equivalent to the Banach-Alaoglu theorem. Although the Banach-Alaoglu theorem and the full- strength Axiom of Choice are not exactly equivalent, they are closely related.

The Banach-Alaoglu theorem is a compactness theorem whose proof mainly depends on Tychonoff's theorem. In this article, Banach-Alaoglu theorem is equivalent to the axiom of choice, has been proved.
Organizational Ethos: Empact on Work Performance of Employees
Authors: Adhikari Narayan Prasad , Budhathoki Jhupa Kumari
Published: April 2024

The objective of this study is to explore how organizational ethos affects employees' work performance. This study is based on meta-analysis research design and the literature review. Organizational principles, practices, and distinctive features of culture all contribute to the dimension of corporate culture. The foundational element of an organization's ethos is its value system. The corporate ethos fosters professionalism among the employees. Workplace performance was found to be positively impacted by four organizational ethos sub-elements: managing change, attaining goals, coordinating teamwork, and cultural strength. Organizational ethos has a significant impact on the operations, personnel, and productivity of a wide range of services. This study demonstrates that if employees are dedicated and has the same values as their organizations; their performance in attaining organizational objectives will be achieved. To enhance the overall performance of the workforce and the services, managers and executives are encouraged to foster a strong organizational ethos. The study's findings show that organizational ethos has a major impact on employee motivation, develops personal growth, influences communication, and enhances organizational values, group decision-making, and conflict resolution.
Depiction of Caste System and Dalit Consciousness in Ratna BK’s Banda Ākāsh Khulepachhi
Authors: Charmakar Rudra Bahadur
Published: April 2024

The article deals with the caste system and consciousness in relation to class consciousness and Dalit consciousness based on literary text. As Dalit literature portrays the socio-cultural, economic and political issues of Dalits, their inequal relation with the people, caste discrimination, exploitation and suppression and protest and movements; and, it also presents the potential avenues of resolution. The article explores the brutality of caste system and Dalit consciousness for rights, equality, justice, dignity and liberation of Dalits. For this purpose, some short stories from Ratna BK’s Banda Ākāsh Khulepachhi have been chosen for the interpretation. The stories reveal the ground reality of multiple layers discrimination and issues of Dalits, their protest and resolution. Furthermore, the research explores the socio-cultural and political awareness and protests of Dalits, and state’s pragmatic position to address the issues and agenda. The researcher employs the qualitative approach with exploratory and analytical methods. The Marxist concept of class consciousness connecting to Dalit consciousness is parallel applied as theoretical perspectives in this article.
A Cross-Sectional Study of Gender Politics in Nepal
Authors: Dhobi Saleem
Published: April 2024

This research paper examines the different dynamics of intersectionality in the political and cultural set-up of Nepal, where people of different religions, ideologies and ethnicities have lived for centuries. The paper tried to argue that variables such as class, gender, ethnicity, religion, region, disability and even caste influence the political and social status of Nepal. To study the real problems of women, all those parts that directly or indirectly affect their position must be underlined in the research paper. The article uses Crenshaw's theory of intersectionality to examine the dominant variables of patriarchy. The article focuses on the problems of Madheshi, Muslim and Dalit women who have always been marginalized in the political and social framework of the country. The primary finding of the study is that women belonging to marginalized class, caste, ethnicity, disability, religion and region are more oppressed in the country than women belonging to other categories. Because intersectionality is a burning approach to analyzing the position of women in patriarchy, theorists and researchers whose perspectives and ideas matter are brought into the discussion.
ऋग्वैदिक समाजमा नारीका सामाजिक स्थान र भूमिका {Social Position and Role of Women in Rig-Vedic Society}
Authors: शर्मा Sharma अमृतादेवी Amritadevi
Published: April 2024

ऋग्वेदमा नारीहरूको ईश्वरीय स्वरूप र प्राकृतिको मानवीकृत नारीस्वरूपको बन्दना र स्तुति गरिएको छ भने मानवीय स्वरूपमा आएका नारीहरूका विभिन्न पृथक भूमिकाको चित्रण छ । यहाँ ईश्वरीय, प्रकृतिको मानवीकृत स्वरूप र मानवीय स्वरूपमा आएका नारीहरू अस्तित्वपूर्ण, स्वतन्त्र, आत्मनिर्णयी, पराक्रमी, धीर र बुद्धिमतायुक्त देखिन्छन् र यिनीहरूले मन्त्रद्रष्टा, योद्धा, माता, प्रेमिका, पत्नीलगायतका भूमिकामा रहेर विभिन्न सामाजिक भूमिका निर्वाह गरेका छन् । यस अध्ययनमा ऋग्वैदिक नारीका सामाजिक स्थान र भूमिकाको मूल्याङ्कन गर्न मानवशास्त्री मोर्गनका मान्यतालाई अनुसरण गर्दै एङ्गेल्सले प्रस्तुत गरेको समाजविकासको चरण र यी चरणमा नारीको सामाजिक स्थान र भूमिकासम्बन्धी मान्यतालाई सैद्धान्तिक मान्यताका रूपमा अनुसरण गरिएको छ । यस अध्ययनबाट यस ग्रन्थमा रहेको यम यमी संवादले हाडनाताभित्रको यौनसम्बन्धमा आधारित पारिवारिक संरचनालाई र उर्वशी पुरुरवा संवादले स्थायी परिवारिक संरचनाको विकास नभएको मातृवंशमा आधारित बर्बर युगको उन्नत चरणको समाजलाई देखाएका छन् । यु अ यी समाजमा नारीहरू हरेक रूपले स्वतन्त्र रहेको अवस्थालाई देखाएका छन् भने सूर्याविवाहसूक्त, शचीपौलोमीसूक्त, इन्द्राणीसूक्तलगायतले परिवारको उत्पत्ति र विकासका साथै पितृवंशमा आधारित समाजविकासको गतिभित्र नारीको सामाजिक स्थान र भूमिका क्रमशः खुम्चिँदै जान थालेको अवस्थालाई देखाएका छन् भन्ने निष्कर्ष निकालिएको छ ।
म ! नाटकमा नारी पहिचान र प्रतिरोध {Feminine Identity and Resistance in Drama Me!}
Authors: गुरागाईँ Guragain राधिकादेवी Radhikadevi
Published: April 2024

प्रस्तुत लेखमा बालकृष्ण समको म ! नाटकलाई अध्ययन सामग्री बनाएर त्यसमा प्रयुक्त नारी पहिचान र प्रतिरोधी चेतनाको विश्लेषण र मूल्याङ्कन गरिएको छ । सामग्री विश्लेषणका निम्ति सांस्कृतिक अध्ययनले अघि सारेका पहिचान र प्रतिरोध चेतनासम्बन्धी सैद्धान्तिक मान्यताको उपयोग गरी सोद्देश्य नमुना छनोट पद्धतिबाट पाठगत तथ्य सङ्कलन गरी विश्लेषण गरिएको छ । सांस्कृतिक अध्ययनका विविध क्षेत्रमध्ये यसमा लैङ््िगक अध्ययनअन्तर्गत नारी पहिचानको अध्ययन गरिएको छ । म ! नाटकमा पितृसत्तात्मक सामाजिक संरचनाको शक्तिका आडमा पति व्यभिचारी बनेको र नवविवाहिता पत्नीलाई तिरस्कार गरेको अवस्था चित्रण गरिएको छ । पत्नीले पनि प्रारम्भमा आफ्नो अवस्थालाई स्वीकार गरेको र पछि स्वअस्तित्वबोध गरी पतिका व्यभिचार र आफूप्रतिको तिरस्कारविरुद्ध प्रतिरोध गरेको अवस्था देखाइएको छ । मूलतः यस लेखमा सहरिया, शिक्षित र सम्पन्न परिवारका नारी पनि पितृसत्तात्मक शक्ति र विचारधाराको उत्पीडनमा परेका छन्, नारी स्वयंले आफूमाथि भएको उत्पीडनका विरुद्ध प्रतिकार गर्ने हिम्मत गर्नु पर्दछ र बौद्धिक वर्गले आफ्नो बुद्धि एवं अर्थको समेत प्रयोग गरी नारीको पहिचान निर्माण गर्न सहयोग गर्नुपर्दछ भन्ने विचार व्यक्त भएको छ भन्ने निष्कर्ष निकालिएको छ ।
Socio-Economic Heterogeneity and Income Distribution: Evidence from Common Property Resource Management
Authors: Adhikari Bhim
Published: April 2024

The author assesses the relationship between socio-economic heterogeneity and equity of resource distribution by reviewing the theoretical literature. He finds mixed results as regards whether resource management and utilization undercommunity based management is equitable and has the potential for positive impact on the livelihood of very poor and marginalized section of the community. He concludes that inequality among resource users has negative impact on thelocal level collective action. Finally, the author relates the theoretical review findings with observations in community forestry in Nepal, and concludes that equity impact is not positive as a result of inequality among resources users.
Local Level Monitoring Systems in Community Forestry: Challenges, Opportunities and Directions for Future
Authors: Paudel Krishna Prasasd , Ojha Hemant Raj , Barnes Richard
Published: April 2024

A recent study has demonstrated that local level monitoring systems, that could encourage learning and adaptiveness in forest management, are poorly developed, and that this presents a constraint to equitable and active management of forests. This paper reviews the contextual factors and emerging concepts of monitoring, and identifies gaps and prospects. Based on lessons gained thus far, strategies for facilitating local level monitoring are also explored.
Contributions of Community Forestry in Rural Social Transformation: Some Observations From Nepal
Authors: Upreti Bishnu Upreti
Published: April 2024

This paper examines the contribution of Nepalese Community Forestry in social change process in two central hills districts of Nepal. Analysis of data indicates improvement in forest management, decision making, representation of poor and women in forest management and utilisation, awareness on economic and ecological contributions of forests. Debates and discussionshave increased as regards roles and responsibilities of users as well as mechanisms for gender-sensitive, poverty-focused and equity-based forest management activities. All these factors are contributing to achieve sustainable management of forest resources, to improve the living condition of people and to promote non-coercive social transformation.
Integrating People and Nature: A Perspective for Environmental Conservation and Livelihoods in the Context of Nepal
Authors: Paudel Naya Sharma
Published: April 2024

In Nepal, protected area approach to environmental conservation has been a highly contested issue,particularly in view of the conflicts between local people and conservation authorities. Presenting evidences and insights from Royal Chitwan National park and reviews of relevant theoretical knowledge, the paper argues that the protected area approach involves enormous local social costs in terms of limiting livelihoods opportunities to local people, as well as ignoring the potential of local institutions in the conservation. It then suggests a social ecology perspective to balance conservation and local livelihoods.
State versus Community: A Confusing Policy Discourse in Nepal’s Forest Management
Authors: Timsina Netra , Paudel Naya Sharma
Published: April 2024

The issue of forest governance in Nepal is highly dominated by the state versus community discourse, dividing intellectuals, professionals and practitioners into two ideological camps. We argue that this debate is theoretically weak and practically less useful, as it fails to take into account the semi-feudal and hierarchical Nepalese communication structure. This divide has largely undermined the internal differentiations both within the state and community organizations, assuming them to be homogenous and monolithic. It is shown how this dichotomy and the resultant policy processes have strengthened the alliances between local elite, bureaucrats and politicians, further marginalizing the poor and disadvantaged forest users. It suggests that the focus of the discourse should be on the complex interactions among the social actors crosscutting state- community divide.
Government Incentives for Schooling Girls from Slum Families at Community Schools and Their Academic Activities
Authors: Paudel Thuma Kumari , Adhikari Govinda Prasad
Published: April 2024

This cross-sectional study examined the way government scholarship influences female students from low-income families. This study has described the government scholarships offered in community schools and examined the impact of the scholarship on female student's academic achievement. The purposive sampling and QUAN-Qual. procedure were employed in this study to choose community schools and study areas. The socio-economic position of parents (who live in slum areas), their caste/ethnic variation (majority of them are Dalit and Janajati), and other factors led to select the study. For the study, all 247 eligible respondents girls from slum dwellings, ages eight to eighteen years were included. Data were gathered using a semi-structured interview schedule and a self-structured questionnaire. The student attendance register was used to identify the respondents. There were mainly two types of scholarships (residential and non-residential). It focused on target groups, including girls. Major incentive providers were the government, municipalities, NGOs, and the private sector and they focused on money, materials, and stationery. Nearly half of the respondents have received scholarships, and two-thirds have decided to use incentives for their studies. The incentive has a positive relationship to increase classroom activities and their educational performance. Nearly one-fourth of students have appealed for increased scholarship amounts, as they cannot cover their total expenses.
Explore The Mid-day Meal Policy in the Context of Retention in School Education
Authors: Ghimire Durga Devi
Published: April 2024

Explore The Mid-day Meal Policy in the Context of Retention in School Education: A Teacher's Perspective from Lalitpur District. Nepal's midday meal policy, aimed at improving children's health and educational access, is a critical component of its national education system. However, limited research has explored this policy from the viewpoint of community school teachers. This study addresses three pivotal research questions: The funding for midday meals is adequate. The allocated funding is fully utilized. The program enhances education quality and reduces dropout rates due to midday meals. In-depth interviews with Lalitpur district teachers, where the midday meal policy is active, provided qualitative data. Ethical considerations safeguarded participants' identities and opinions. Teachers expressed concerns about insufficient funds for midday meals, requiring additional local contributions. Nevertheless, they reported that the granted funds were fully utilized, supporting students' nutrition and local farmers. The program positively impacted education quality and reduced dropout rates. This study underscores the midday meal policy's challenges and successes, highlighting the importance of supplementary financial support for student nutrition. It also emphasizes the program's multiple advantages, including improved education quality and lower dropout rates, especially among disadvantaged students. The provision of a midday meal program in schools can have a positive impact on student retention This research offers vital insights into Nepal's midday meal policy's impact on the education system. It emphasizes the ongoing need for financial support to sustain and enhance the program, ultimately benefiting children's comprehensive development.
Alexandru Buzalic, Anthropos—Omul Paradigmele unui model antropologic integral [Anthropos—Man. Paradigms of an Integral Anthropological Model] Târgu-Lăpuş: Galaxia Gutenberg, 2022, 228 pp.
Authors: Dancák Pavol
Published: April 2024

Alexandru Buzalic, Anthropos – Omul. Paradigmele unui model antropologic integral [Anthropos - Man. Paradigms of an integral anthropological model]. Târgu-Lăpuş: Galaxia Gutenberg, 2022, 228 pp.
The current and new legal regulations of spatial planning in the legal conditions of the Slovak Republic with an emphasis on spatial planning documents and spatial planning documentation
Authors: Jakušová Viera , Michalovič Matúš
Published: April 2024

The subject of the presented article is the analysis of the spatial planning legislation that is currently valid and effective and its comparison with the spatial planning legislation that will come into effect on April 1, 2024, in the legal conditions of the Slovak Republic. The authors of the article focused primarily on the comparison of two basic spatial planning tools – spatial planning documents and spatial planning documentation. The issue of the spatial plan of the municipality is elaborated in more detail, while the article points to changes in its legal regulations in connection with the process of land consolidation and the battle against climate change.
Odpowiedzialność za szkody wyrządzone wykorzystywaniem geologicznych zasobów wnętrza Ziemi. Wybrane problemy transgraniczne
Authors: Mikosz Ryszard
Published: April 2024

Przedmiotem rozważań zawartych w artykule jest cywilna odpowiedzialność za szkody wyrządzone korzystaniem z geologicznych zasobów środowiska (lub grożące wskutek takiej działalności), rozpatrywana w kontekście transgranicznym. W opracowaniu przedstawiono podstawowe zasady kolizyjne, które znajdują zastosowanie przy ustalaniu materialnoprawnego reżimu tego rodzaju odpowiedzialności. W szczególności omówione zostały najważniejsze reguły określone w rozporządzeniu (WE) nr 864/2007 Parlamentu Europejskiego i Rady z dnia 11 lipca 2007 r. dotyczącym prawa właściwego dla zobowiązań pozaumownych („Rzym II”). Akt ten ma bowiem kluczowe znaczenie dla problematyki rozpatrywanej w artykule.
Marka gminy jako determinanta konkurencyjności obszaru
Authors: Hyski Marcin , Chudy-Hyski Dorota
Published: April 2024

Przedmiotem artykułu jest problematyka konkurencyjności obszaru i roli marki terytorialnej w jej wzroście, a celem – wskazanie istoty i znaczenia marki obszaru w jego funkcjonowaniu oraz roli marki terytorialnej we wzroście konkurencyjności gminy i kreowaniu przewagi konkurencyjnej względem otoczenia. Przeprowadzona analiza ma charakter teoretyczny. W analizie skoncentrowano się na poznaniu specyfiki gminy, która jako jednostka samorządu terytorialnego jest jednostką organizacyjną odpowiedzialną za rozwój społeczno-ekonomiczny swojego terytorium. W interesie rozwoju gminy leży poprawa warunków funkcjonowania obecnych i potencjalnych podmiotów (mieszkańców, przedsiębiorstw, inwestorów), co przekłada się na wzrost konkurencyjności gminy. W dalszej części opracowania skoncentrowano się na czynnikach oraz barierach konkurencyjności gminy oraz scharakteryzowano znaczenie marki obszaru (gminna marka terytorialna) w tym procesie. Wskazano też na niezbędne elementy marki terytorialnej oraz podkreślono rolę gminy w procesie jej tworzenia.
Pengaruh Lingkungan Kerja, Kepemimpinan, dan Fasilitas Kerja Terhadap Kepuasan Kerja Karyawan
Authors: Ratna Ningrum Natalia , Setiani Yuliana , Wisnu Utomo Chandra
Published: April 2024

Penelitian ini bermaksud untuk mendapati dampak lingkungan kerja, kepemimpinan, dan fasilitas kerja terhadap kepuasan kerja pada karyawan baik secara parsial ataupun simultan. Penelitian ini ialah penelitian kuantitatif dengan teknik analisis regresi linear berganda yang dilaksanakan dengan memanfaatkan bantuan program SPSS 25. Pengumpulan data menggunakan kuesioner, sampel pada karyawan PT X sejumlah 80 responden. Hasil penelitian ini disimpulkan bahwa secara parsial lingkungan kerja, kepemimpinan, dan fasilitas kerja mempunyai dampak positif terhadap kepuasan kerja. Secara simultan dampak lingkungan kerja, kepemimpinan, dan fasilitas kerja mempunyai dampak signifikan terhadap kepuasan kerja.
Analisis Pengaruh Kemampuan Komunikasi Pemimpin, Kompetensi Individu Pemimpin dan Motivasi Terhadap Kinerja Karyawan pada Industri Biro Jasa Tour & Travel di Makassar
Authors: Muchran Murniady
Published: April 2024

This study intends to analyze the effect of communication skills of leaders, individual competence of leaders and motivation on employee performance either partially or simultaneously. This research is quantitative research with multiple linear regression analysis techniques carried out by utilizing the help of the SPSS program. Data collection techniques using questionnaires and interviews as complementary data sources. Samples were taken from employees of 30 tour & travel service bureau companies in Makassar who are members of ASITA. The results of this study concluded that partially the communication skills of leaders, individual competence of leaders and motivation have a positive impact on employee performance. Simultaneously the impact of the leader's communication skills and individual competence of the leader has a positive impact on employee performance.
Pengaruh Penggunaan Foodstagram Endorsement Terhadap Buying Interest Pada Followers Instagram Kuliner Solo
Authors: Ilham Karin Rizkiawan  , Aulia Uswatun  , Latifah Putranti  , Doni Hermansyah
Published: April 2024

Instagram is widely used by social media users. The level of trust of Instagram followers especially in the culinary sector is very dependent on recommendations from the accounts they followed, so many business people endorse Instagram accounts that have many followers to promote their culinary businesses. This study aims to determine the effect of the dimensions of visibility, credibility, attractiveness,and strength on the buying interest of followers of culinary Instagram accounts in the city of Solo.This research includes quantitative research with a survey approach. The sample in this study was 150 culinary followers in the city of Solo and the sampling technique used was the purposeful Sampling method. The technique for analyzing data in research used reliability testing, validity testing, and multiple linear regression. The results of the study showed that the visibility variable had no significant positive effect on buying interest, while the variables of credibility,attractiveness,strength have a significant positive effect on buying interest.The suggestion in this research is that the culinary foodstagram account admin needs to pay attention to credibility when providing honest and appropriate reviews so that potential consumers do not feel disappointed if what is displayed in the content does not match what is reviewed
Social Services, Law, and Crisis Management Curriculum Offered in Library and Information Studies
Authors: Villagran Michele A. L. , Long Bobbie S. , Monobe Dale
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to examine the trends in American Library Association (ALA)-accredited Library and Information Studies (LIS) master's program course offerings that facilitated societal interactions and support, specifically social services, law, soft skills, and crisis management. Results indicated that most respondents, who were LIS faculty and members of the Association of Library and Information Science Education (ALISE), believed that LIS coursework in social services, law, soft skills, and crisis management were important. Respondents also indicated how they or their departments addressed social issues (e.g., readings), and what kinds of crises a librarian should be equipped to handle (e.g., facilities management). Additionally, it was found that 41.9% of the respondents believed that a Masters and a Juris Doctorate were required to be a law librarian. Moreover, survey data limitations and implications for current and future practice are discussed.
"Civil War Treasures"
Authors: Rasmussen Hans
Published: April 2024

To commemorate the recent sesquicentennial of Charles Sumner’s death, this installment of “Civil War Treasures” features transcriptions of four of his letters held in the LSU Libraries Special Collections. Although not the most detailed of missives, they all date from significant periods of his tenure in the Senate: the imbroglio over the passage of the Kansas-Nebraska Act, Sumner’s assault at the hands of Preston Brooks, and his evaluation of an ever-worsening situation during the secession crisis in the winter of 1861.
Replacing Hot Stamped, Boron, and DP1000 Steels with Room Temperature Formable Flash Bainite 1500 Advanced High-Strength Steel
Authors: Cola Gary M
Published: April 2024

Flash Bainite Processing employs rapid thermal cycling (<10s) to strengthen commercial off the shelf (COTS) steel sheet, plate, and tubing into AHSS. In a continuous process, induction technology heats a narrow segment of the cross section in just seconds to atypically high temperatures (1000-1300°C). Quenching substantially immediately follows. Flash Processing utilizes inherent heterogeneity of steel creating multi-chemistry, complex mixtures of approximately 20% bainite and 80% martensite. Carbide dissolution and carbon migration are controlled by limiting time in the austenite temperature range. Unlike conventional heat treating to create advanced high strength steels (AHSS), homogeneity is intentionally avoided and non-equilibrium conditions are created. The leanest prior ferritic regions transform to bainite while prior pearlite forms martensite. A 7-10% higher yield/tensile strength product results with the beneficial ductility of the bainite constituent. Flashed AISI1010 (1100MPa UTS) and AISI1020 (1500MPa UTS) have shown exceptional room temperature stamp-ability to 0T/1T bend radii. The 1500MPa formability of 3G-AHSS is achievable. Flash Bainite offers simultaneous weight and cost savings.
Breakthrough in Induction Hardening Shafts
Authors: Rudnev Valery , West William , Goodwin Aaron , Fillip Steve
Published: April 2024

This presentation reviews selected innovations related to induction hardening of various automotive powertrain transmission and engine components, including but not limited to induction surface hardening of complex geometry shafts. Thanks to several innovative designs (patented and patent pending), important goals were achieved. Process flexibility in shaft scan hardening has been substantially enhanced thanks to a novel inverter design that allows controlling independently frequency and power during scanning. This innovation allows improving quality of induction hardened components maximizing production rate and process flexibility. When applying single-shot hardening for heat treatment of output shafts, flanged shafts, yoke shafts, sun shafts, intermediate shafts, drive shafts and others, coil life is often limited due to a necessity to “squeeze” coil current in a certain area, maximizing power density. This seemingly unavoidable feature of the great majority of single-shot inductors represents a “weak link”, limiting coil life expectancy. Thanks to innovative design (patent-pending) of a single-shot inductor, its life was increased approximately nine times. Process sensitivity has been dramatically reduced. Other benefits include measurable improvement in process robustness, coil reliability and maintainability.
The 1:1 Rule for Quench Tanks— A Suboptimal and Misapplied Design Criterion
Authors: Bernard William J.
Published: April 2024

There is an oft quoted rule of thumb in heat treating: quench tanks should be sized with one gallon of oil per one pound of steel. The intent of this “1:1 Rule” is to prevent quench tank fires. As with most rules of thumb, the 1:1 Rule was formulated for ease of memorization and to give a significant margin of safety. Over the years, testing, data and experience have shown the rule to be overly conservative in certain cases, especially when applied to batch integral quench furnaces. Moreover, the rule has been mistakenly applied as a metallurgical quality specification, which is not its purpose. This paper will discuss critical safety and process parameters of the quenching process and equipment design that the simplistic 1:1 Rule fails to consider.
Heat Treating in the Digital Age
Authors: Klick Bill
Published: April 2024

AMS2750E has brought about significant changes to the record keeping requirements to the heat treating industry. Although not expressly required, heat treating companies that service the aerospace industry are turning to digital solutions that streamline data acquisition, reporting, and compliance with industry standards. Meeting the requirements of AMS2750E for data collection and report generation is one reason why the heat treating industry is seeking custom data collection solutions built with commercial off the shelf components. Companies producing parts to meet the AMS2750E standard must abide by data collection, calibration, temperature uniformity survey (TUS), and system accuracy test (SAT) documentation requirements. The goal of the 2750E record keeping requirements is to improve quality, shorten document retrieval times, and ensure compliance. The advantages of digital records include real-time access to data from multiple locations, improved data integrity, reduced long-term storage costs, and the ability to easily sort, query, and compare data. Leveraging digital systems allows users to capture real-time process data and officially signed documents, and create reports that benefit operators, maintenance personnel, engineers, quality control specialists, and other decision makers. Smartly implemented digital data collection systems leverage the existing network and server infrastructure resulting in a streamlined solution that can interact with existing business and automation systems, including Enterprise Resource Planning systems (ERP) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems that impact quality and profitability.
Temperature Processing Evolves Atmosphere Practices to Meet Community Needs— At a Profit
Authors: Wolff David , Engelhard Will , Brennan Richard
Published: April 2024

Temperature Processing Inc. has offered merchant heat treating in the northern NJ town of North Arlington for over 60 years. Their 10,000 sq ft facility, expanded in 1998, offers broad thermal processing capability in a compact plant. Diverse services offered include annealing, tempering, bright hardening, ageing and nitriding.
Best Practice for Design and Manufacturing of Heat Treating Inductors
Authors: Yakey C. , Nemkov V. , Goldstein R. , Jackowski J.
Published: April 2024

With the use of good design practices, one can improve coil longevity and improve production quality. By eliminating failure points in the initial design, proper material selection, improved cooling and proper magnetic flux control, induction tooling life can be increased. Computer simulation has been proven to be an effective tool for predicting not only electromagnetic parameters of a designed system, but also heat patterns in a given part and in the induction coil itself. When a coil has magnetic flux controllers present, their influence may also be predicted by computer simulation. With an extensive library of published case studies in induction coil design and performance evaluations, we are confident with the use of these tools and proper coil geometries and implementation, production life and quality can be improved on most induction heat treating inductors. These design practices have been used by the authors for over 20 years with proven results. A case is examined of a CVJ stem hardening coil, in which the principles discussed can be applied to most other hardening coils.
Optimization of Protective Atmospheres for Annealing and Hardening Operations in Continuous Furnaces
Authors: He Liang , Zurecki Zbigniew
Published: April 2024

Nitrogen (N2) atmospheres with different, not always optimized levels of reducing and carburizing gases are often used to prevent decarburizing and oxidation of steel parts during annealing in continuous furnaces. The type and concentration of these additives in N2 should correlate to the extent of air leakage into furnace, entrainment of air with loaded parts, steel composition, and complex reaction kinetics in the gradients of oxygen (O2) and temperature existing between the entrance and hot zones of the furnace. This study explores the effect of small, 0.1 vol.% - 0.4 vol.% propane (C3H8) additions on composition of air-contaminated N2 atmosphere in the temperature range of 500°C - 860°C. Microstructures are presented for AISI 1045 steel exposed to the atmospheres produced. Atmosphere compositions compared include those produced by a new type of plasma activated, in-situ reformer for N2-diluted C3H8. The latter method extends the atmosphere protection to the lower range of annealing temperatures. Present results may assist heat treaters in optimizing their neutral hardening operations.
Effect of Deep Cryogenic Treatment on AISI H13 Tool Steel
Authors: Bhavar Valmik , Khot Shreyans , Kattire Prakash , Mehta Mohan , Singh R.K.P.
Published: April 2024

In the recent years, there has been a remarkable increase in the use of deep cryogenic treatment (DCT) for enhancing performance of tool steels. It is a supplementary treatment where components are treated below subzero temperatures for several cryo-soaking hours. This paper focuses on to study the effect of deep cryogenic treatment and cryo-soaking time on microstructural and mechanical properties of AISI H-13 tool steel. Deep cryogenic treatment at different cryo-soaking time (16-48 hours) were applied and tool steel performance was analyzed by using mechanical, fatigue and wear testings. The microstructural evolutions during DCT were evaluated by using scanning electron microscope (SEM). It was observed that microstructural modifications like increase in carbide density, fine and uniform martensitic structure during DCT had significantly improved properties which were influenced by cryo-soaking time.