bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forecasting Framework for Digital Twins
Authors: Sado Kerry , Peskar Jarrett , Downey Austin , Khan Jamil , Booth Kristen
Published: July 2024

The ability to forecast system conditions is integral to the definition of digital twins. However, the strategic implementation and associated assumptions underlying the forecasting technique have not yet been fully defined and integrated with a physical system. This research develops a generic forecasting framework and baseline assumptions that can be adapted to a wide variety of applications using digital twins. Experimental validation of the forecasting methodology is demonstrated through a real-time electro-thermal digital twin designed for onboard power distribution cables as an illustrative example. The digital twin utilizes real-time sensor data to forecast thermal profiles, facilitating proactive power management and enabling real-time decision-making. Forecasted insights derived from the digital twin allow for timely adjustments in power flows, thereby preventing the cables from exceeding selected thermal thresholds. The efficacy of the forecasting framework is experimentally verified in a controlled three-bus power system configuration.
CONCENTRATION OF THE UKRAINIAN BANKING SYSTEM: PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS
Authors: Kubakh Tetiana
Published: July 2024

The article examines the relevance of the issue of concentration of the banking system of Ukraine and identifies the main prospects for reducing the share of the state in the banking services market. The period from 2009-2022 inclusive was chosen for analysis and evaluation, which made it possible to identify the main trends and factors that influenced the growth and decline of such concentration indices as Herfindahl–Hirschman Index and CR in terms of the following indicators: assets, corporate loans, retail deposits, authorised capital, commission income, and interest income. The obtained calculations helped to determine the level of concentration of the domestic banking system. The purpose of the article is to allocate scientific approaches and carry out practical calculations to determine the degree of concentration of the banking system and to determine the need for its deconcentration. The results of the analysis demonstrate the growing scientific interest of both domestic and foreign economic schools in the problem of concentration in the banking system. However, it is worth noting that the peak of publication activity was observed in 2018-2020, with the top three countries being the United States of America, the United Kingdom, and Malaysia. The results of the calculations showed that the number of banks in Ukraine does not have a significant impact on the level of concentration. With a fairly large number of banks in 2013, namely 180 institutions, there was a sharp increase in concentration, but a larger share of the market was controlled by private capital, but since 2017, a larger share of the banking sector has been owned by the state. The author notes that the concentration of market power by state-owned banks has led to the emergence of a monopoly, but transformational measures to reduce the concentration of the banking system should be carried out taking into account the existing financial and economic feasibility. Of course, there is a risk of ineffective management decisions by bank management, but it is the largest state-owned banks that demonstrate the sustainability and profitability of their activities.
Macrozoobenthos in the estuary of the small salmon river of Sakhalin Island on example of the Gornaya River
Authors: Korneev E. S. , Labay V. S. , Zhivoglyadova L. A. , Berezova O. N. , Sharlay O. B. , Abramova E. V. , Akhmadeeva E. S.
Published: July 2024

Estuaries as a connecting link between freshwater and marine ecosystems play a special role in salmon rivers. The success of adaptation of juvenile salmonids during the transition to the marine period of life depends on the conditions in estuaries. The work continues the previously started series of publications on the rivers of Sakhalin Island. Using the example of one of the small watercourses in the southeastern part of the island, the hydrological parameters and the structural organization of benthos communities in the atypical estuary have been considered. In the absence of storm surges, penetration of sea water into the water body does not occur; at high tide, water with a salinity of more than 12 psu is observed only at the mouth at the bottom; at low tide, the estuary is completely filled with water with a salinity of 0.1 psu and lower. Studies of the hydrological regime and composition of the bottom fauna were carried out in July 2022. Zoobenthos samples were taken along the longitudinal profile of the estuary at five sections (75 samples in total). Most of the estuarine reach is inhabited by species characteristic of the lower parts of the island watercourses. High environmental variability determines the formation in the estuary of young and unstable benthos communities represented by rapidly reproducing small-sized species.
Snow survey within the copper ore deposits in the mining regions of the Urals
Authors: Gonchar N. V. , Makarov A. B. , Guman O. M. , Antonova I. A.
Published: July 2024

The paper presents the results of studies of dust residues of snow cover within various climatic zones and copper deposits of the Ural region. Snow cover research is one of the methods for environmental assessment of territories. This concerns the study of dust residues from snow cover samples, as shown by the example of the territories of the Northern and Southern Urals at different stages of work on copper deposits. The initial stage of study and development is considered using the example of porphyry copper deposits in the Chelyabinsk region, where snow samples reveal organic matter in dust residues, typical birch seeds, a small amount of minerals at a low dust load (P ˂ 100 kg/day per km2). For the deposits of the Ivdel region (Northern Urals), the dust residues largely contain organic dust, fragments of ore minerals (pyrite, chalcopyrite) and minerals of volcanic rocks and metasomatic rocks. The maximum value of the dust load is set for the Novo-Shemurskoye deposit currently being developed. A study of dust residues in the zone of influence of the Karabash copper smelter (before its reconstruction) has shown that in some parts of the sanitary protection zone the level of snow cover pollution is very high with dust load values up to 12,633 kg/day per km2, which is determined primarily by the widespread use of crushed copper smelting slag. In general, the study of dust residues of snow cover provides information about both the ecological state of the territories and the mineral composition of the residues, which must be used for practical purposes.
Utilisation of titanium-containing wastes in the cement industry: A literature review
Authors: Evdokimova M. E. , Pashkevich M. A.
Published: July 2024

The metallurgical industry is among the leaders in waste production which has a high potential for recycling. The review paper considers the problems of metallurgical industry waste management and some possible ways of their solution. Waste acidic pickling solutions of titanium (titanium sludge) can be used as an additive to cement clinkers both to improve the characteristics of building materials and the efficiency of their production process. The influence of calcium fluoride (CaF2) and titanium dioxide (TiO2) on cement clinkers at different concentrations of substances and sintering temperatures has been reviewed. The data on changes in the content of free lime (f-CaO), patterns of formation and distribution of clinker phases: alite, belite, celite and calcium aluminiferite have been presented. Mechanisms of CaF2 and TiO2 inclusion in the composition of various cement phases have been explained. The conclusion has been made that the application of titanium-containing wastes allows not only to recycle them, but also to obtain construction materials with improved characteristics.
The process of sucrose crystallization in the supersaturated solution
Authors: Gribkova V. A. , Semenov E. V. , Slavyanskiy A. A. , Mitroshina D. P.
Published: July 2024

Crystallization processes of the solid phase in supersaturated solutions of products of plant origin are used in processing technologies. The theory of diffusion (molecular) mass transfer of the target substance has become widespread when solving problems of technology improvement. The driving force of this process is the difference in the concentration of the solid phase in the solution towards the crystallization center, where the concentration of the solid phase is reduced. During the analytical and quantitative study of the process of solid phase deposition in the crystallization center, Fick's diffusion laws have been used. The influence of solution temperature, concentration of the solid phase, its geometry and dispersed composition on the course of this process have been considered. Based on a diffusion model of the process of crystal formation of sucrose in a vacuum apparatus, a numerical analysis of factors in sugar production technology not covered in the literature has been presented. The problem of quantitative analysis of the process of sucrose crystallization in the working volume of a vacuum apparatus for the production of sugar and other products of plant origin of high commercial standards requires further in-depth study.
The biological integrity of natural poly-species symbiotic bacterial communities for the production of kefir: Basic aspects of the preservation
Authors: Sokolova O. V. , Fedotova O. B.
Published: July 2024

An integral step in kefir production technology is the use of kefir grains, but in some cases it is necessary to maintain their population at the plant. A convenient method is freezing, but with direct freezing, kefir grains lose activity and some microorganisms die off. The use of substances with cryoprotective properties can help preserve kefir grains under direct freezing conditions. The study has examined three environments that have the potential to protect the symbiosis of kefir grains under subcryoscopic conditions: skim sterile milk, gelatin and a sterile solution of 30 % sucrose, and one environment that is stressful – sterile distilled water. At previous stages of research, it was proven that sharp defrosting aggravates the stress phenomena of the bacterial community, in particular, promotes the death of surface lactococci which leads to dysbacteriosis of the symbiosis. The work used for the first time a periodic scheme for defrosting kefir grains in a protective environment; the methods of visual and organoleptic assessment have been applied, the studies of microbiological and physico-chemical parameters of milk after fermentation of kefir starter with kefir grains have been conducted. Milk changes have been carried out using the technology of cultivating kefir grains with daily passages. It is accepted that if based on a set of indicators kefir grains from the experimental groups within 7 days correlate with the indicators detected for the control group, which was not subjected to freezing, then it is accepted that the kefir grains have completely restored viability. If this does not happen, a conclusion is drawn that the symbiosis has not been restored. As a result of the research, the prospects for using the studied substances as protective media have been proven and the need to construct specialized cryoprotective media for direct freezing of kefir grains in order to create your own kefir culture banks has been substantiated. The approach will reduce the use of bacterial substitutes for kefir like direct fermentation starters.
YARGI KARARLARI IŞIĞINDA MARKANIN CİDDİ KULLANIMI
Authors: Büyükkılıç Gül
Published: July 2024

Marka sahibinin en temel hakkı, markasını tescilli olduğu mal veya hizmetlerde kullanmaktadır. Bu bir hak olduğu kadar aynı zamanda bir zorunluluktur. Nitekim SMK m.9/1’de marka kullanım zorunluluğu düzenlenmiş ve diğer şartların yanı sıra markanın ciddi şekilde kullanılması aranmıştır. Kullanımın hangi durumlarda ciddi sayılacağı ve kullanımın ispatı için sunulabilecek bilgi ve belgelerin kapsamı ne ulusal ne de uluslararası mevzuatta açıklanmıştır. Bu noktada Avrupa Birliği ve Türk doktrini ve yargı kararları yol gösterici nitelik taşımaktadır. Bu çerçevede öne çıkan ilk kriter, markanın sembolik, göstermelik kullanımlarının dikkate alınmayacağıdır. Bir diğeri, markanın kaynak gösterme işlevine uygun kullanımının gerekli olmasıdır. Marka sahibinin kanıtlaması gereken diğer bir husus da markanın tescilde kayıtlı mal ve hizmetlere yönelik bir pazar payı geliştirmek veya korumak ve bu şekilde markadan ekonomik bir yarar elde etmek amacıyla, piyasayı etkileyecek yerlerde kullanıldığıdır. Söz konusu kriterler somut olayın koşullarına göre değerlendirilmeli ve bu değerlendirmede ilgili ekonomik sektörün şartları, ilgili mal veya hizmetin niteliği, piyasanın mevcut karakteristik özellikleri, ilgili işletmenin ticari iş hacmi ile satım ve dağıtım kanalları ve markanın kullanım derecesi ve sıklığı ve kullanım biçimi itibariyle tüketicide yansıma bulup bulmadığı hususları bir bütün olarak dikkate alınmalıdır. Bu çalışma ile Türk ve AB yargı kararları ve doktrini ışığında ciddi kullanım kavramına ilişkin belirsizliğin giderilmesi amaçlanmaktadır.
Exploring factors affecting tourists’ purchase intention of Wuhan cuisine
Authors: Yan Cao , Sutunyarak Chonlavit
Published: July 2024

Food has long been considered very important in tourism activities and it has a positive effect on tourist satisfaction. Then local cuisine has become an important attraction for tourist destinations and one of the focuses of destination marketing. This study is based on the theory of perceived value, perceived risk theory, and the theory of planned behavior, aiming to understand tourists’ intentions to purchase local cuisine and its influencing factors, choosing Wuhan, China as the study case, and conducting an empirical survey on tourists visiting Wuhan in 2023. Data analysis was conducted using confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling to test the research hypotheses. The results show that the value of quality, price, emotion, cognition, culture and health can improve tourists’ satisfaction and enhance tourists’ purchase intention of Wuhan cuisine. However, social value and perceived risk have no significant effect on satisfaction and purchase intention, tourists’ satisfaction with Wuhan cuisine positively affects tourists’ attitude, and tourists’ satisfaction. Attitude, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control are also key factors to predict tourists’ purchase intention of Wuhan cuisine. The purchase intention model meets the fitting criteria: X²/Df = 1.533, RMSEA = 0.025, CFI = 0.977, IFI = 0.977. The results of this study provide a reference for the competent government departments and related enterprises to promote the development of food tourism in Wuhan.
Beyond market anomalies: How heuristics and perceived efficiency shape investor behavior in developing markets
Authors: Datt Pathak Durga , Singh Thapa Bharat
Published: July 2024

Cognitive biases often influence investor behavior in developing capital markets, leading to market anomalies and affecting overall market efficiency. With the increasing integration of global financial markets and the growing participation of retail investors, understanding these biases is more critical than ever. While market anomalies have been extensively studied in developed markets, their influence in developing economies remains under-explored. This study aims to examine the impact of heuristic biases on investment decisions, focusing on Nepal’s stock market. Structural Equation Modeling is used to assess how perceived market efficiency mediates the relationship between heuristic biases and investor behavior. Data were collected from purposively selected 403 active individual investors in Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE). The findings reveal that representative and overconfidence biases significantly and positively influence investment decisions and market efficiency. Specifically, investors exhibiting these biases are more likely to make confident and bold investment choices, believing in their ability to predict market movements accurately. Furthermore, the study finds that perceived market efficiency mediates the relationship between anchoring and adjustment bias and investment decisions, suggesting that investors who rely heavily on initial information (anchors) adjust their decisions based on their perceptions of market efficiency. The results highlight the critical role of heuristic biases in shaping investor behavior and stress the importance of market efficiency in this process. The study emphasizes the need to enhance investor awareness of these biases and implement policies to improve market transparency and efficiency. Such measures are vital for mitigating risks and fostering a more robust and resilient financial market in developing economies like Nepal.
¿Hubo ocupaciones achelenses en Santimamiñe?
Authors: Rios-Garaizar Joseba
Published: July 2024

En 1960, el hallazgo de un bifaz de cuarcita en la excavación de Santimamiñe planteó la posibilidad de que hubiera habido ocupaciones achelenses en la cueva. Sin embargo, esta cuestión no ha sido valorada en las intervenciones arqueológicas posteriores ni considerada en las síntesis sobre el primer poblamiento de Bizkaia. La localización de ésta y otras piezas de aspecto arcaico en los almacenes del Arkeologi Museoa, unido a la publicación en línea de los diarios de campo de Barandiarán, nos ha permitido valorar la posibilidad de que hubiera existido una ocupación del Paleolítico Inferior en la cueva de Santimamiñe.
Artificial neural network-based water distribution scheme in real-time in long-distance water supply systems
Authors: Shi Lin , Zhang Jian , Yu Xiaodong , Fu Daoyong , Zhao Wenlong
Published: July 2024

Hydraulic models of long-distance water supply systems are usually used to regulate valves and pumps to realize the expected water distribution. Establishing and calibrating the hydraulic model is time-consuming and requires many engineering parameters, which are usually uncertain. This paper proposes a metamodel based on artificial neural networks (ANNs) to replace the computationally costly hydraulic model. The metamodel is designed to bypass the modeling and calibration processes of the hydraulic model and directly estimate the target state of valves and pumps to realize real-time water distribution. The proposed approach uses the water levels of reservoirs and the flow demands of water plants as input data to the ANN. The metamodel's output prescribes the opening of regulating valves and the speed of pumps. A realistic case study is presented to validate the accuracy and efficiency of the approach. The results show that ANN is feasible as a state predictor to realize real-time water distribution in practical water supply projects.
INTELIGÊNCIA ARTIFICIAL NA PRÁTICA JURÍDICA
Authors: Siqueira Loureiro Silvia Regina , Santos do Nascimento Gabriela
Published: July 2024

Artificial Intelligence plays a fundamental role in performing tasks that were previously only possible to be executed by the human mind. This includes decision-making, user interaction, image interpretation, and various other activities. Therefore, the objective of this research is to analyze how this technology is being used and how it can assist in the speed and accuracy of legal practice in public law firms, contributing to the increase in free access to justice. Additionally, the research also aims to identify the challenges associated with the use of Artificial Intelligence in the context of public and free access to justice. The methodology used for the study approach was qualitative research. Bibliographic and documentary research methods were employed for data collection. In short, it is clear that the use of artificial intelligence in legal practice, despite being recent and limited, is crucial for the advancement of public law and its accessibility. This is due to the fact that, through this technology, costs can be reduced and productivity increased.
INCIDENTAL BONE METASTASIS FINDING FROM CT SIMULATION FOR BREAST CANCER RADIOTHERAPY
Authors: Nugroho Rafiq Sulistyo , Amalia Fini , Bayhaqi Nashir Aslam Achmad , Petrarizky Alfred Julius
Published: July 2024

Breast cancer has the highest tendency for bone metastasis. This study aimed to evaluate bone metastasis using computed tomography (CT) simulation for breast cancer radiotherapy. We retrospectively reviewed the patient's CT images from September 2022 to February 2023. The median age was 48 (34–80), and almost half of the patients had T3-4 and N2-3 disease. Nine out of 53 patients (17%) had bone metastasis, and 8 had multiple lesions. The vertebral spine was the predominant site of bone metastasis. Due to the high rate of bone spreading, bone evaluation is mandatory during CT simulation for more appropriate treatment.
Keywords: Bone metastasis, computed tomography, breast cancer
Analisis Penggunaan Antibiotik Pada Pasien Infeksi Saluran Kemih (ISK) Secara Kuantitatif Di RSUD Provinsi NTB Tahun 2019
Authors: Puspitasari Candra Eka ,   Program Studi Sarjana Farmasi, Fakultas Kedokteran, Universitas Mataram, Mataram, Indonesia, R. Amalia , D. Suryani ,   Program Studi Sarjana Farmasi, Fakultas Kedokteran, Universitas Mataram, Mataram, Indonesia,   Program Studi Sarjana Farmasi, Fakultas Kedokteran, Universitas Mataram, Mataram, Indonesia
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is a disease that often occurs in developing countries after upper respiratory tract infections. The incidence of UTI in 2018 in Indonesia is quite high, ranging from 39-60%. Antibiotics are the main therapy for UTIs, but excessive and inappropriate use of antibiotics can cause occurrence of antibiotic resistance. Objective: This study aims to quantitatively analyze patterns of antibiotic use in UTI patients at the NTB Provincial Hospital in 2019. Methods: This type of research is descriptive in nature using a cross-sectional design. There were 47 patients in case who were diagnosed with UTI ith the ICD-X code N39.0, which means the UTI suffered by the patient was a non-specidic type of UTI. Quantitative use of antibiotics was calculated using the ATC/DDD method according to WHO standards. Results: The total value of DDD/100 Patient-days was 51.26 with ceftriaxone as an antibiotic with the highest DDD/100 patient-days value of 19.78 and had the largest value in the 90% DU segment, which was 38.59%. Conclusion: Regular evaluation of antibiotic use is needed to minimize excessive use of antibiotics so that rational antibiotic use can be achieved.
A Microfinance Intervention With or Without Peer Support to Improve Mental Health Among Transgender and Nonbinary Adults (the Creating Access to Resources and Economic Support Study): Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Poteat Tonia C , Reisner Sari L , Wirtz Andrea L , Mayo-Wilson Larissa Jennings , Brown Carter , Kornbluh Wiley , Humphrey Ash , Perrin Nancy
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Transgender and nonbinary (TNB) people experience economic and psychosocial inequities that make them more likely to be subject to financial and mental health harms exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Sustainable, multilevel interventions are needed to address these harms. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic galvanized many TNB-led organizations to provide emergency financial and peer support for TNB people negatively impacted by the pandemic. However, the efficacy of these interventions has not been evaluated. The Creating Access to Resources and Economic Support (CARES) study seeks to assess the efficacy of feasible, acceptable, and community-derived interventions to reduce economic and psychological harms experienced by transgender people in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE

The study aims to (1) compare the efficacy of microgrants with peer mentoring with that of microgrants without peer mentoring in reducing psychological distress, (2) examine mechanisms by which microgrants with or without peer mentoring may impact psychological distress, and (3) explore participants’ intervention experiences and perceived efficacy.

METHODS

We will enroll 360 TNB adults into an embedded, mixed methods, 3-arm, and 12-month randomized controlled trial. Participants will be randomized 1:1:1 to arm A (enhanced usual care), which will receive a single microgrant plus monthly financial literacy education, arm B (extended microgrants), which will receive enhanced usual care plus monthly microgrants, or arm C (peer mentoring), which will receive extended microgrants combined with peer mentoring. All intervention arms last for 6 months, and participants complete semiannual, web-based surveys at 0, 6, and 12 months as well as brief process measures at 3 and 6 months. A subset of 36 participants, 12 (33%) per arm, will complete longitudinal in-depth interviews at 3 and 9 months.

RESULTS

Full recruitment began on January 8, 2024, and, as of July 26, 2024, a total of 138 participants have enrolled. Recruitment is expected to be completed no later than March 31, 2025, and the final study visit will take place in March 2026.

CONCLUSIONS

This national, web-based study will demonstrate whether an intervention tailored to reduce material hardship and improve peer support among TNB adults will reduce psychological distress. Its equitable, community-academic partnership will ensure the rapid dissemination of study findings.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05971160; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05971160

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/63656
Development of a Digital Health Intervention for the Secondary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease (INTERCEPT): Co-Design and Usability Testing Study (Preprint)
Authors: Gibson Irene , Neubeck Lis , Corcoran Marissa , Morland Chris , Donovan Steve , Jones Jennifer , Costello Caroline , Hynes Lisa , Harris Aisling , Harrahill Mary , Lillis Mary , Atrey Alison , Ski Chantal F , Savickas Vilius , Byrne Molly , Murphy Andrew W , McEvoy John William , Wood David , Jennings Catriona
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Secondary prevention is an important strategy to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD), a leading cause of death worldwide. Despite the growing evidence for the effectiveness of digital health interventions (DHIs) for the secondary prevention of CVD, the majority are designed with minimal input from target end users, resulting in poor uptake and usage.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to optimize the acceptance and effectiveness of a DHI for the secondary prevention of CVD through co-design, integrating end users’ perspectives throughout.

METHODS

A theory-driven, person-based approach using co-design was adopted for the development of the DHI, known as INTERCEPT. This involved a 4-phase iterative process using online workshops. In phase 1, a stakeholder team of health care professionals, software developers, and public and patient involvement members was established. Phase 2 involved identification of the guiding principles, content, and design features of the DHI. In phase 3, DHI prototypes were reviewed for clarity of language, ease of navigation, and functionality. To anticipate and interpret DHI usage, phase 4 involved usability testing with participants who had a recent cardiac event (<2 years). To assess the potential impact of usability testing, the System Usability Scale was administered before and after testing. The GUIDED (Guidance for Reporting Intervention Development Studies in Health Research) checklist was used to report the development process.

RESULTS

Five key design principles were identified: simplicity and ease of use, behavioral change through goal setting and self-monitoring, personalization, system credibility, and social support. Usability testing resulted in 64 recommendations for the app, of which 51 were implemented. Improvements in System Usability Scale scores were observed when comparing the results before and after implementing the recommendations (61 vs 83; P=.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Combining behavior change theory with a person-based, co-design approach facilitated the development of a DHI for the secondary prevention of CVD that optimized responsiveness to end users’ needs and preferences, thereby potentially improving future engagement.
Community Perception of Biogas Production from Cacao Waste
Authors: Arumsari Bernardia Vitri , Utami Arini Wahyu , Harun Mohd Razif
Published: July 2024

Indonesia can use bioenergy to meet its renewable energy consumption target. Community perception must be known when designing communication strategies or policies regarding biogas as a renewable energy source. This study aims to 1) evaluate the knowledge, attitude, behavior, and overall perception of the Gambiran Hamlet, Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia residents on biogas from cacao waste, and 2) investigate the factors affecting the perception of the Gambiran Hamlet residents on biogas. Socio-economic data were collected by doing surveys and observation. One sample t-test was conducted to determine the perception of the Gambiran Hamlet community towards biogas made from cacao waste. Moreover, logistic regression was used to determine the factors affecting the perception of biogas. Most of the residents can define biogas properly. Moreover, the residents' attitude and behavior were positive regarding relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, and observability components. Gambiran Hamlet residents’ perception of biogas from cacao waste is positive. Furthermore, the higher the educational attainment and being male, the greater the chance of a positive perception of biogas. However, household size, age, and income are statistically insignificant. Furthermore, socialization, training, and mentoring are needed for biogas installation. This research successfully provides fresh insights into residents' perception of biogas from cacao waste and uncovers key factors, like gender and education, influencing their perception, offering valuable guidance for targeted policy and communication strategies.
Is it Real History or Illusion?—Exploration of Narrative Strategies in Ambrose Bierce’s “An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge”
Authors: OUYANG Zexi
Published: July 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of Ambrose Bierce’s “An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge”, exploring the confluence of historical context, narrative ingenuity, and thematic depth in his work. Born during the tumultuous Civil War era, Bierce’s experiences as a Union soldier profoundly influenced his literary focus, notably in his portrayal of war’s brutalities and psychological impact. The paper examines how Bierce’s narrative style, characterized by a blend of stark realism and surreal elements, set him apart in the late 19th-century literary landscape. His most acclaimed work, “An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge”, is dissected for its innovative narrative structure, symbolic language, and exploration of existential themes such as the fragility of life, the inevitability of death, and the human psyche’s struggle with freedom and fate. The study highlights Bierce’s unique contribution to the short story genre and his lasting influence on American literature.
The Effect of Improvised Computer-Based Software Package on Secondary School Students’ Achievement and Attitude Towards Mathematics
Authors: Udobia Elijah Etukudo , Anwaitu Freser Egba
Published: July 2024

The study was conducted to determine the effect of improvised computer-based software on the achievement and attitude of senior secondary school students towards mathematics. Fifteen secondary school mathematics teachers were trained to produce a computer-based software package and use the package to teach ‘graphical solution to quadratic equations’ to senior secondary class one (SSCI) students. A total sample of 1487 SSCI students was used in the study: 745 students in the 15 secondary schools purposively selected on the rationale of their closeness to a computer center, used as the experimental group, and 742 students from the 15 schools randomly selected for use as the control group. Pre-test, post-test, and quasi-experimental research designs were used to conduct the study. Fifteen intact classes were simultaneously used for treatment in the experimental and control groups. The experimental groups were taught with computers using the computer-based software package on teaching graphical solutions to quadratics equations produced by their teacher, while the control groups were taught using the conventional strategy. The result reveals a significant difference in academic achievement between students taught with improvised computer-based software packages and those taught using the conventional strategy. The mean achievement score of 73% and standard deviation of 9% was obtained from the experimental group, while the control group had a mean achievement of 57% and standard deviation of 5%.
Similarly, the experimental group had an attitude test score of 82% and a standard deviation of 6%, while the control group had a mean attitude test score of 59% and a standard deviation of 11%. This gave the calculated value of the t-test as t = 42.3 for achievement and t = 50.1 for attitude, showing a significant difference in achievement and attitude between the experimental and control groups. Thus, an improvised computer-based software package is more effective in teaching mathematics than the conventional strategy. Hence, improvising computer-based software for teaching and learning is highly recommended.
PLACKETT-BURMAN DESIGN
Authors: Gregor Milan , Grznar Patrik , Mozol Stefan , Mozolova Lucia
Published: July 2024

This article focuses on Placket t-Burman designs (P-B plans) for experiments, which represent an efficient tool for experimental designs, especially in investigating the influence of a large number of factors. Unlike traditional designs such as full factorial experiments (FFE) and fractional factorial experiments (FrFE), P-B plans allow for the effective processing of experiments with a higher number of factors without the need for an exponential increase in the number of trials. Although P-B plans do not directly enable the analysis of interactions between factors, they are ideal for exploring and analyzing the main effects of factors. The article examines in detail the advantages and disadvantages of P-B plans, including their ability to provide experimental error estimates and their efficiency in screening studies. The orthogonality and balance of P-B plans are emphasized, and their application in practice is illustrated with an example of a manufacturing process influenced by multiple factors. The approach based on P-B plans is shown to be a significant contribution to the field of experimental design, especially in situations where it is necessary to efficiently evaluate the impact of a large number of factors with a limited number of trials.
Bases epistemológicas da avaliação: entre saberes e práticas
Authors: Senra Elaine Maria De Andrade , Elliot Ligia Gomes , Da Silva Laisa Raquel Bezerra , Bastos Tiago Magalhães
Published: July 2024

Este artigo aborda a epistemologia da avaliação, explorando seus fundamentos teóricos e práticos; discute a ausência de uma definição única de avaliação e enfatiza a necessidade de um "pensamento avaliativo" rigoroso, conforme proposto por Patton, que integra reflexão, diálogo aberto e julgamento fundamentado. A avaliação é apresentada como uma atividade transdisciplinar, influenciada por diversos contextos e paradigmas epistemológicos, enriquecendo sua prática e contribuindo para decisões seguras e melhorias contínuas. O artigo explora ainda a relação entre epistemologia e avaliação, destacando que a avaliação é intrinsecamente vinculada ao conhecimento, examinando razões, evidências e critérios de validade; introduz os principais paradigmas de avaliação e suas conexões com a Árvore de Alkin; discute a integração das bases epistemológicas na elaboração de critérios e instrumentos avaliativos; aborda a integração de saberes e práticas avaliativas em um mundo em constante transformação. Nas considerações finais, o artigo argumenta que as diversas abordagens avaliativas devem estar ancoradas em uma realidade epistemológica sólida, fundamental para sustentar um processo avaliativo robusto e eficaz.
Is the board of directors associated with earning management strategy? The role of the audit committee
Authors: Suryandari Dhini , Hidayah Retnoningrum , Ranihusna Desti , Aulia Ivan , Basher Sara R. , Kayati Ima Nur , Hasna Salma Ibtidaul , Nugraha Sifa Aura Amalia , Rohmah Fian Tri
Published: July 2024

Most management companies focus on their profitability in many kinds of ways. This research aims to examine the association between board of directors meetings and the gender of the board of directors on earning management. In addition, this research has novelty by adding a moderating variable, namely the audit committee. The population is companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX). The sampling technique uses a stratified random sampling technique. There were 87 companies as the total sample. The observation period was three years so the total analysis units were 261. Data analysis was carried out with the WarpPLS application. The results show board of directors meetings and gender diversity do not affect earnings management. Meanwhile, the audit committee can moderate the influence of director gender diversity on earnings management. However, the audit committee is unable to moderate the influence of board of directors meetings on earnings management. This research provides empirical evidence that earnings management does not depend on the number of board meetings or the gender of the directors. Therefore, this research contributes to company policy to improve the effectiveness of the audit committee in implementing good corporate governance. Good corporate governance can suppress earnings management
SOCIAL CRITICISM IN THE SHORT STORY SCREAMING GRAVES BY KHALIL GIBRAN (A SOCIO-LITERARY ANALYSIS STUDY BY ALAN SONGWOOD)
Authors: Faruqi Abdurrasyid Muhammad
Published: July 2024

The research is entitled “Social criticism in the short story Screaming Graves by Khalil Gibran (A socio-literary analysis study by Alan Songwood)”. The aims of this research are: First, to find out the substance of the short story Shurakh al Qubur. Second, to find out the social criticism conveyed by the author in the short story. Third, to find out the relationship between the short story Shurakh al Qubur and the social conditions of Lebanese society. In order to analyze the social criticism in the short story, the researcher used Alan Swingewood's literary sociology theory. Swingewood believes that literary works are a reflection of the social conditions in which they were created. In principle, there are three things related to the sociology of literature, namely first, research that views literary works as social documents in which they are a reflection of the situation at the time the literature was created. Second, research that reveals literature as a reflection of the author's social situation. Third, research that captures literature as a manifestation of historical events and socio-cultural conditions. In this study, researchers used the first perspective, namely literary works as social documents. This research produces first, the substance of the short story Shurakh al Qubur which explains that this short story is the author's criticism of the government which is described through the story between the king and the suspect. Second, criticism of authoritarian leaders in power and criticism of autocratic government systems. Third, social criticism in the short story which reflects the conditions of the Ottoman Empire during the leadership of Sultan Abdul Hamid II. This criticism is represented in the figure of a king who is cruel in punishing his people.
The impact of educational technologies on learning outcomes in higher business education
Authors: Zecevic Aleksandra , Stakic Djordje , Damjanovic Aleksandar
Published: July 2024

The paper examines the impact of alternative ways of teaching and the use of
various educational technologies on students? performance. Our survey was
conducted on a sample of actively enrolled students of Business Informatics
at the Faculty of Economics, University of Belgrade, in December 2022. Our
results suggest that utilisation of communication and learning platforms
(Viber, WhatsApp, Facebook, Moodle and course sites), although widely
accepted and favoured by students, has no significant impact on their
performance. Students? performance was measured by their average grades and
the share of passed examinations in the total number of attended courses
(i.e., success rate). We have found evidence that students? performance can
be related to the teaching approach. Furthermore, attending classes online
worsens students? chances of improving their average grade and their success
rate in business informatics courses. On the other hand, the data suggests
that students? chances of improving their total average grade improve if
they attend classes online.
Lung cancer: a nationwide analysis of sex and age incidence trends from 1980 to 2022
Authors: Borg Morten , Tønnesen Hanne , Ibsen Rikke , Hilberg Ole , Løkke Anders
Published: July 2024

Background: Lung cancer, once rare, has evolved into the global leading cause of cancer-related mortality, primarily driven by widespread cigarette smoking in the 20th century. This study explores the historical trends of lung cancer incidence in Denmark over four decades, emphasizing the impact of smoking prevalence, age, and gender on the observed patterns.
Materials and methods: Drawing upon data from the Danish National Patient Register and information on smoking habits provided by the Danish Health Authority, this study investigates lung cancer incidence rates, demographic shifts, and smoking prevalence from 1980 to 2022.
Results: Smoking prevalence exhibited a consistent decline in males from 1950 to 2022, whereas female smoking prevalence maintained a stable level from 1950 to 1987, followed by a subsequent decline from 1987 to 2022. A peak in lung cancer crude incidence rates was identified during 2014–2017, with no significant difference observed before and after this period. Over the period, the gender distribution transitioned from a male majority to an equal male-female ratio, and age-specific disparities indicated declines in patients aged 50–59 and increases in those above 80 years.
Interpretation: The certainty of a decline in lung cancer incidence in the coming years remains unclear. Based on smoking prevalence, it might still be a decade away. To ensure a sustained decline in lung cancer incidence, targeted interventions are imperative, including customized smoking cessation programs that could be designed favorably for females. Given the modest decline in smoking prevalence over the last decade, legislation aimed at discouraging young individuals from smoking is pivotal. As of now, these efforts have not been implemented in Denmark.
CFD modeling for predicting imperfections in laser welding and additive manufacturing of aluminum alloys
Authors: Bunaziv Ivan , Hovig Even Wilberg , Godinez Brizuela Omar E. , Zhang Kai , Ma Xiang , Ren Xiaobo , Eriksson Magnus , Skjetne Paal
Published: July 2024

Aluminum and its alloys are widely used in various applications including e-mobility applications due to their lightweight nature, high corrosion resistance, good electrical conductivity, and excellent processability such as extrusion and forming. However, aluminum and its alloys are difficult to process with a laser beam due to their high thermal conductivity and reflectivity. In this article, the two most used laser processes, i.e., laser welding and laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) additive manufacturing, for processing of aluminum have been studied. There are many common laser-material interaction mechanisms and challenges between the two processes. Deep keyhole mode is a preferred method for welding due to improved productivity, while a heat conduction mode is preferred in LPBF aiming for zero-defect parts. In LPBF, the processing maps are highly desirable to be constructed, which shows the transition zone. Presented numerical modeling provides a more in-depth understanding of porosity formation, and different laser beam movement paths have been tested including circular oscillation paths. High accuracy processing maps can be constructed for LPBF that allows us to minimize tedious and time-consuming experiments. As a result, a modeling framework is a highly viable option for the cost-efficient optimization of process parameters.
Att undersöka sin egen undervisningspraktik: En diskussion om etiska aspekter i samband med akademiskt lärarskap
Authors: Weurlander Maria
Published: July 2024

Akademiskt lärarskap innefattar att systematiskt utforska och reflektera över den egna undervisningspraktiken i syfte att utveckla undervisningen så att studenters lärarande underlättas och förbättras. Att undersöka den egna praktiken kan innebära särskilda etiska utmaningar men det finns idag inga etiska riktlinjer som specifikt gäller pedagogisk utveckling och akademiskt lärarskap i en svensk kontext. Syftet med denna fördjupade diskussion är att belysa och diskutera etiska aspekter av akademiskt lärarskap och högskolepedagogisk utveckling. Med utgångspunkt från forskningsetik, omsorgsetik och högskolelärares yrkesetik diskuteras några centrala etiska dilemman som högskolelärare behöver förhålla sig till i samband med utforskandet av den egna undervisningspraktiken.
English abstract
Exploring One’s Own Teaching Practices: A Discussion on Ethical Aspects Related to Scholarship of Teaching and Learning
The Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) involves systematically exploring and reflecting upon one’s own teaching practices with the aim of developing teaching to facilitate and enhance student learning. Examining one’s own practices may pose particular ethical challenges, but currently, there are no ethical guidelines in a Swedish context specifically addressing pedagogical development and SoTL. The purpose of this in-depth discussion is to shed light on and discuss the ethical aspects of SoTL and educational development in higher education. Drawing on research ethics, care ethics, and the professional ethics of university teachers, some key ethical dilemmas that university educators need to consider in the exploration of their own teaching practices are discussed.
Kebumen Cares through Free Circumcision at Taman Winangun Kebumen Islamic Boarding School
Authors: Sawiji Sawiji , Nugroho Irmawan Andri , Santoso Dadi
Published: July 2024

Circumcision is an obligation for Muslims. declared an obligation because it has been exemplified in the sunnah of the Prophet. It is stated in Siroh Nabawiyah that Rasulullah SAW performed circumcision when he was 7 days old. However, socialisation of the sunnah of Rasulullah Muhammad SAW in Indonesian society is mostly carried out when children are 5 years old or older. Currently, circumcision, or what is more commonly referred to ascircumcision," can be done in various ways. The choice of a variety of ways and the effects that arise are also very influential on the costs incurred. The obstacle in general is that the cost of circumcision under the care of a doctor is not affordable for the poor, who are being squeezed by economic problems. Based on this, we intend to organise a mass circumcision social service for poor children. As a medical tertiary institution engaged in the world of medical surgical nursing, the Community Service Team for the Undergraduate Nursing Study Program, Muhammadiyah University of Gombong, is motivated to participate in creating a healthy young generation. This small step is very important for us, especially if the circumcision process brings social values towards a better social life. This mass circumcision programme was carried out at the Tathmainnul Qulub Islamic Boarding School, Taman Winangun, Kebumen, and was attended by 22 participants. With the mass circumcision program, we are sure that we can fully obtain these positive values. Therefore, we are ready and able to be part of this noble step and invite benefactors to participate in it.