bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Small-scale variations in spider and springtail assemblages between termite mounds and the surrounding grassland matrix
Authors: Badenhorst Hannelene , Haddad Charles Richard , Janion-Scheepers Charlene
Published: December 2024

The snouted harvester termite (Trinervitermes trinervoides (Sjöstedt, 1911)) is a widespread grass-eating termite species that constructs thermoregulated dome-shaped mounds. However, little is known about the influence of these mounds on the arthropod assemblage structure in the surrounding grassland matrix, and whether the mounds represent ecological islands. Spiders and springtails are two ecologically important arthropod groups often associated with termites or their mounds. We investigated their assemblage composition inside and around active and abandoned T. trinervoides mounds in a central South African grassland. In total, 838 spiders (59 spp., 22 families) and 217 857 springtails (24 spp., 9 families) were collected from 96 pitfall traps, placed at four microhabitats in and around each of 12 active and 12 abandoned mounds during March 2019. The most abundant and species-rich spider families include the Gnaphosidae (n = 270, 10 spp.), Zodariidae (n = 86, 7 spp.), Lycosidae (n = 86, 6 spp.) and Salticidae (n = 77, 5 spp.), whereas the springtail fauna was dominated by Brachystomellidae (n = 56 521, 1 species), Bourletiellidae (n = 49 573, 7 species), Sminthurididae (n = 44 491, 3 species), Isotomidae (n = 32 288, 1 species) and Entomobryidae (n = 26 216, 7 species). Indicator analysis showed that the spiders Zelotes sclateri Tucker, 1923, Heliocapensis termitophagus (Wesołowska & Haddad, 2002) and Scytodes elizabethae Purcell, 1904 are associated with abandoned mounds, but no springtails showed an association based on the IndVal analysis of the eight microhabitats (lumped data), even though the undescribed Cyphoderus sp. were mostly collected inside active mounds. The mounds thus had a negligible influence on the spatial distribution of springtails in the surrounding grassland. The different spider and springtail assemblages sampled indicate that both active and abandoned mounds function as ecological islands in grasslands, but that mound size does not affect their abundance or species richness in the different microhabitats sampled.
Two new species of chewing lice in the genus Melinirmus (Phthiraptera, Ischnocera, Philopteridae) from Australian honeyeaters (Passeriformes, Meliphagidae)
Authors: Gustafsson Daniel R. , Bush Sarah E.
Published: December 2024

Two new species of the genus Melinirmus Mey, 2017, are described from Australian honeyeaters (Meliphagidae). These are: Melinirmus coromandelica n. sp. ex Ptilotula penicillatus penicillatus (Gould, 1837) and Melinirmus palmai n. sp. ex Anthochaera carunculata (Shaw, 1790). A checklist of all known species of Brueelia-complex chewing lice known from the Meliphagidae is provided.
Modèles d’affaires circulaires et pays en développement : le cas des pneumatiques usagés au Cameroun
Authors: Boldrini Jean-Claude , Kengmogne Djoumessi Henriette
Published: December 2024

Les pratiques en matière d’économie circulaire sont bien documentées dans les pays développés mais le sont beaucoup moins dans les pays en développement. Face à cette lacune et comme on pressent que les possibilités de mise en œuvre diffèrent fortement dans les deux cas, cet article en étudie les modalités, à partir du cas de la revalorisation des pneumatiques usagés au Cameroun, ainsi que les pratiques de ses acteurs et les nouveaux produits obtenus. Les données collectées au cours d’une étude qualitative montrent que la revalorisation des pneumatiques usagés relève principalement de l’initiative privée de personnes en quête de moyens de subsistance. Les facteurs incitatifs à leur activité ainsi que les freins qu’ils rencontrent pour revaloriser les pneumatiques sont détaillés. L’article apporte des éclairages quant aux pratiques d’économie circulaire en Afrique et quant aux dispositifs organisationnels et institutionnels qui pourraient être mis en place pour renforcer les bénéfices de ces pratiques.
Comment la dimension locale modifie le modèle d’affaires d’une entreprise. Cas des systèmes énergétiques locaux
Authors: Doumit Farah , Ayrault Johanna
Published: December 2024

Les défis rencontrés par les entreprises cherchant à concilier durabilité, création de valeur économique et respect des enjeux environnementaux et sociaux dans nos modèles actuels de consommation et de production sont complexes. Les modèles d’affaires durables émergent comme une solution, mais, selon les activités, leur mise en œuvre est entravée par divers obstacles, comme la nécessité d'une intégration locale forte. Pour explorer l'opérationnalisation de modèles d’affaires durables locaux, cette étude se concentre sur deux activités dans le secteur de l'énergie : la méthanisation et les réseaux de chaleur urbains. Les résultats soulignent les conditions nécessaires à la réussite de ces modèles, en mettant en avant le cadre RCOV (Ressources, compétences, organisation et valeurs) pour détailler la dimension locale du modèle d’affaires. L'intégration réussie de ces modèles locaux dépend de la capacité de l'entreprise à comprendre l'écosystème local (1) en se concentrant sur la création de valeur locale, (2) en développant les capacités locales et en mobilisant les ressources techniques, humaines et naturelles disponibles localement, et (3) en se réorganisant en interne par la territorialisation et en externe via l’intégration à une gouvernance de l'écosystème local.
Bernard Stiegler : pour une pensée atranscendantale dans l’ère post-vérité
Authors: Alombert Anne
Published: December 2024

Cet article a pour but d’explorer la question de la philosophie « a-transcendantale » proposée par Bernard Stiegler, en remontant à son origine et en envisageant ses implications sur les plans théoriques et pratiques. Nous tentons de montrer que Stiegler ouvre ainsi une voie nouvelle pour la philosophie, fondée sur une « double récusation de l’empirisme et du transcendantalisme », qui suppose d’aller au-delà du « projet transcendantal » à l’oeuvre dans la philosophie critique kantienne et dans la phénoménologie husserlienne, sans pour autant retomber dans les positions métaphysiques ou positivistes que ces auteurs avaient permis de dépasser. Contrairement à ce que propose le courant du « réalisme spéculatif », il ne s’agit pas pour Stiegler de reprocher à Kant ou Husserl leur prétendu « corrélationnisme », mais plutôt de révéler les conditions techno-logiques de possibilité de l’expérience et de la connaissance ainsi que la constitutivité des supports techniques dans les structures de la conscience. Toutes deux demeurent impensées dans les philosophies critiques et phénoménologiques, comme dans toute la tradition métaphysique, fondée sur une opposition entre technè et epistemè, dans laquelle l’opposition entre empirique et transcendantal elle-même est enracinée. C’est cette opposition qu’il semble aujourd’hui nécessaire de dépasser, dans un contexte où les supports numériques affectent le devenir des savoirs de tous types, au point de conduire à la « post-vérité ».
« Il faut sauver la psychanalyse » (Bernard Stiegler)
Authors: Alfandary Isabelle
Published: December 2024

L’article tente de ressaisir dans ses grandes lignes la relation complexe et intense, décomplexée et soucieuse d’efficacité sociale et thérapeutique que l’œuvre de Bernard Stiegler entretient avec la psychanalyse. Stiegler la considère, à la différence de la plupart des philosophes de sa génération, comme capable d’un soin singulier et puissant qu’il est urgent de démocratiser et de mettre au service des maux contemporains. La psychanalyse permet de panser autant que de penser, de remédier par exemple aux errements et aux dérives technologiques et médiatisées contemporains de la relation même la plus archaïque qui soit : la relation mère enfant.
Conscience et mimésis
Authors: Lindberg Susanna
Published: December 2024

La théorie de la conscience développée par Bernard Stiegler est fondée sur une idée originale : la conscience est cinéma, et les inventions des dispositifs technologiques de la photographie, de la phonographie et surtout du cinéma ont rendu visible cette structure. Cet article examine la théorie stieglérienne de la conscience en tant que pouvoir non conscient de rêver, qui n’est pas fondé sur l’imagination cachée dans les profondeurs de l’inconscient (comme chez Freud), mais dans des images-objets techniques analysées comme « rétentions tertiaires ». L’article présente aussi une théorie de la mimésis que la théorie stieglérienne de la conscience présupposerait sans pourtant s’en rendre compte.
Court-circuits et chocs anaphylactiques à l’ère du capitalisme computationnel
Authors: Ross Daniel
Published: December 2024

Si, comme le soutient Canguilhem, l’émergence de la vie exosomatique implique l’introduction d’une nouvelle infidélité dans le milieu de la vie, alors le droit juridique et scientifique peut être compris comme une réponse visant une nouvelle fidélité, mais qui nécessite toujours une interprétation. Aujourd’hui, cependant, le droit entre en crise en raison de l’écart entre la vitesse du changement juridique et la vitesse d’évolution des technologies numériques. Cette crise peut être interprétée à partir de la théorie stieglerienne de la vie exosomatique comme impliquant trois types de mémoire qui luttent contre la tendance entropique. Nous soutenons ici qu’il existe également une quatrième mémoire : le système immunitaire. En comprenant la fonction immunitaire non seulement comme une discrimination entre éléments propres et étrangers, entre amis et ennemis, mais plutôt comme un système de rétention et d’interprétation, nous pouvons comprendre des phénomènes tels que la désignation d’un bouc émissaire comme une faute d’interprétation qui peut être comparée aux récits de l’apparition de la paranoïa. Cela permet de comprendre la crise de l’expérience contemporaine comme une réaction anaphylactique résultant d’un effondrement de la résonance, qui équivaut à une perte des connaissances et du désir nécessaires pour vivre en tension, la vie en tension étant pour nous la seule définition significative de la paix.
Étendre la noosphère et ré-élever l’anthropos
Authors: Lemmens Pieter
Published: December 2024

Cet article considère les potentiels noétiques des psychédéliques en tant que pharmaka dans le cadre stieglerien de l’organologie et de la pharmacologie de la noèse. Il vise à soutenir, brièvement et provisoirement, que les expériences médiées par les pharmaka psychédéliques peuvent, d’une part, être mieux comprises à partir de ce cadre « spirituo-matérialiste » mais, d’autre part, peuvent également remettre ce cadre radicalement en question. Il aborde les dimensions libidinales, ontologiques et épistémologiques des pharmaka psychédéliques, en particulier l’ayahuasca, également en relation avec l’interprétation néguentropique-néganthropique de la noèse de Stiegler, et défend l’idée que ces pharmaka peuvent contribuer de manière significative à un futur pluralisme noétique ou à une noodiversité et donc à l’expansion nécessaire – mais pas nécessairement technique – de la noosphère néganthropocène.
ProtectoLink Ease DeFi and Investing With Quantum AI and Its Applications in Blockchain Technology
Authors: Senthilrajan N. , Sankhya Siddhesh O. S. D. , Varun A. , Vidhya R.
Published: December 2024

In the rapidly evolving landscape of decentralized finance (DeFi) and investment, ProtectoLink emerges as a transformative platform to simplify the complexities inherent in these domains. This paper delves into the multifaceted nature of ProtectoLink, highlighting its commitment to providing users with a user-friendly interface, comprehensive educational resources, top-tier security protocols, diverse investment opportunities, real-time insights, and round-the- clock customer support. By amalgamating these features, ProtectoLink is poised to facilitate streamlined and secure participation in the DeFi ecosystem and traditional investment markets.
Quantum AI, Cybersecurity, and Their Impact on Bitcoin, Cryptocurrency, and Blockchain-Based Financial Systems
Authors: Indumathi R. , Mathivanan P. , Mohanapriya D. , Sangeetha M.
Published: December 2024

The convergence of quantum artificial intelligence and online protection presents huge ramifications for Bitcoin, digital currencies, and blockchain-based monetary frameworks. Quantum figuring's capability to change information handling could emphatically improve decision-production inside blockchain networks This raises the pressing requirement for quantum-safe cryptography to shield blockchain innovation from potential quantum assaults. The solidness and security of blockchain-based monetary frameworks could be in danger, requiring administrative structures to address arising dangers. The discoveries likewise show the digital dangers and weaknesses that advance with blockchain innovation improvements. This investigation additionally features the PC security research community's weaknesses and gives future exploration aspects that are critical for planning secure blockchain applications and stages.
Academic, Emotional, and Social Consequences of Bullying on Special Needs Students
Authors: Ziyan Fareeha Syeda , Kadri Aisha
Published: December 2024

This chapter explores the profound impact of bullying on students with SEN, highlighting both academic and social-emotional consequences. SEN students, particularly those with learning disabilities, face significantly higher rates of bullying compared to their neurotypical peers. This victimization leads to severe academic repercussions, including decreased concentration, lower grades, and reduced engagement in school activities. Socially and emotionally, bullying results in heightened levels of anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal, with long-term implications for mental health. A comprehensive literature review, as well as case studies, illustrate the detrimental effects of bullying on academic performance and social-emotional well-being of SEN students, emphasizing the urgent need for effective interventions and support strategies. By examining the interconnected nature of these consequences, this chapter highlights the necessity of comprehensive approaches and identifies relevant interventions to create safer, more inclusive educational environments for students with SEN.
Bullying Faced by Children With Special Needs in Pakistan
Authors: Manzoor Afaf , Khalid Muhammad Usman , Rashid Asifa
Published: December 2024

The proposed book chapter aims to landscape the case of children with special needs in Pakistan who are victims of persistent bullying and are at high risk of being targeted for facing discrimination due to differences in their physical appearance, communication challenges and social interactions. Based on empirical research and theoretical frameworks, the book chapter consists of five sections; the first section will conceptualize the understanding about the bully and its type, the second section narrates the state of bullying in Pakistan and the challenges of children with special needs within the community and schools. The third section is based on the review of legislation to protect against bullying and support prevention. The fourth section shares the findings of a study conducted as part of this chapter to explore the perspectives of teachers on their knowledge and understanding of bullying and its impact on children with special needs. The final section of the chapter presents the recommendations.
Collaboration Between Parents, Children With Disabilities, and School Personnel
Authors: Rapp Hannah , Casella Julianna , Nickerson Amanda
Published: December 2024

School-aged children with disabilities face heightened rates of bullying victimization compared to their typically developing peers. This chapter emphasizes the important role that parents of children with disabilities play in bullying prevention and intervention. First, school-based interventions for reducing bullying victimization among children with disabilities, such as inclusion, social-emotional learning, and multi-component programming, are reviewed. Furthermore, this chapter reviews recommendations for how parents can engage in communication with their child regarding bullying and strategies to help children with disabilities develop skills for handling such situations. Guidelines are provided for parents who seek to report bullying incidents to school personnel. This chapter also outlines helpful responses to bullying by school personnel as perceived by parents of children with disabilities. Lastly, this chapter explores considerations for schools and parents when supporting children with disabilities who are both bullied and bully others.
Fostering Inclusion and Safety
Authors: Kamran Mahwish , Siddiqui Sohni
Published: December 2024

While inclusive education is a cornerstone of contemporary civil rights movements, concerns persist among educators regarding the widespread placement of students with learning disabilities (LD) in mainstream classrooms. One of the most compelling reasons for this apprehension is the potential for increased bullying incidents in inclusive settings. This chapter delves into the experiences of bullying faced by children with LD in inclusive environments and explores strategies for fostering safe and secure classrooms. It further examines pedagogical practices that can equip teachers to effectively manage the learning needs of both students with LD and their typically developing peers. The chapter's primary objective is to present the findings from a case study conducted within an inclusive school in Pakistan. It analyzes how the pedagogical practices adopted by this specific school can be leveraged to promote the inclusion of children with LD by mitigating bullying and fostering greater educational equity.
Lifting the Veil
Authors: Goff Marie Gomez
Published: December 2024

This chapter is about bullying towards students with special needs in inclusive educational settings. By examining the various forms of bullying that these students may encounter, including physical aggression, verbal abuse, social exclusion, cyber harassment, mistreatment by teachers and staff, and the intersectionality of discrimination, this segment aims to illuminate the complexities and challenges faced by this vulnerable population. The chapter also explores the prevalence, impact, and contributing factors of bullying, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted interventions and prevention strategies. By fostering a deeper understanding of the dynamics of bullying towards students with special needs, educators, policymakers, and stakeholders can work collaboratively to create safe, inclusive environments where every student is valued, respected, and supported in their academic and social development. This chapter underscores the importance of addressing bullying in inclusive educational settings as a critical step towards promoting empathy, inclusivity, and equity for all students with special needs.
Unveiling the 15 Minute Anti-City
Authors: Annunziata Alfonso , Murgante Beniamino
Published: December 2024

Spatial injustice is a relevant aspect of the social, economic, and environmental issues faced by contemporary cities. Spatial injustice (SI) is herein defined as a condition resulting from inequalities in terms of propinquity to the residues of urban transformations. The chapter reverts the 15 minute city concept and investigates the 15 minute anti-city, defined as an urban configuration based on redistributive unbalances relative to resources and burdens, resulting in forms of marginalization of specific areas. The study focuses on the urban area of Potenza in Italy. The study utilizes configurational, spatial and statistical analysis to investigate a specific question: How does the spatial distribution of urban amenities and undesired functions contribute to conditions of spatial injustice in cities? Consequently, the chapter contributes to the present debate on urban governance by proposing an alternative conceptualization and operationalization of spatial injustice and by enabling the understanding of interacting forms of marginalization of specific areas and populations.
Pathways to Smart and Green Transitions Through Urban E-Planning
Authors: Chatterji Tathagata , Vaidya Hitesh
Published: December 2024

This chapter discusses opportunities and challenges in the urban e-planning applications in waste governance in India, where responsibilities are shared across administrative tiers. The first objective explores the roles of critical actors in urban waste governance in a multilevel system. The second objective analyses the key barriers to greater digital technology adaptations at the city level. Looking through the prism of functions, funds, and functionaries, the authors focus on decentralising administrative functions to municipal bodies, their financial strength to generate resources, and their techno-managerial capacities. The results demonstrate that although national programmes are essential to achieving e-planning applications, it is vital to strengthen city-level governance and planning. The authors argue that inadequate decentralisation affects city governments' ability to address sustainability challenges in an integrated manner, making them further dependent on upper tiers. The chapter ends by recommending key steps in urban e-planning necessary to mainstream urban green transitions.
What Is Workplace Wellbeing?
Authors: Barua Banya
Published: December 2024

This chapter recounts the definition of workplace wellbeing. It is an introduction to the concept of workplace wellbeing and draws out the difference from occupational health and safety. The aspects of workplace wellbeing are explained, and its deterrents and challenges are collated to expound the complexity of workplace wellbeing. It also brings together the practices which are currently prevalent and their outcomes. It underlines the role of leadership and management in manifesting workplace wellbeing and justifies their importance in adopting workplace wellbeing. It summarises the path forward for workplace wellbeing to become an integral part of an organisation.
Practices, Challenges, and Deterrents in Workplace Wellbeing
Authors: Raina Rashmi , Sharma Anjali , Mishra Naresh
Published: December 2024

Workplace well-being can be regarded as any combination of healthy workplace features that are involved in encouraging the healthy support at workplace, improve employee satisfaction, improve employee health as well as having an enthusiastic work culture. This chapter aims at understanding the various challenges and deterrents which cause hindrance to the well-being of an employee and to know the methods how an employee can tackle those at their own level in general and at organizational level in particular. Various scholarly articles which are published in reputed journals are being used to reach to the desired objective of the chapter. The findings of this chapter throw show of the light on the role of the organization to overcome the stress as well as anxiety levels of the employee at workplace. To curtail the stress and anxiety level of the employees, dutching of some work burden with the fellow mates; spending quality time with the friends and family and lowering down the hours of overtime work were found to be one of the best methods.
Addressing Wellbeing for Remote and Home Working in Australia
Authors: Burgess John , Ayentimi Desmond , Dayaram Kantha
Published: December 2024

Working outside of a physical workplace is expanding through the growth of the gig economy and because of the working from home processes enforced as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Working outside of the physical confines of a single workplace has always been present across many industries, such as transport and construction, education, defence, and mining. With the development of the online economy, the nature of business and working has been transformed. The internet, mobile phones, and specialist apps have supported new business development, disrupted industries, and opened new ways of working beyond the traditional workplace, including gig work. The COVID-19 pandemic forced millions to work away from the workplace, typically at home. The trend globally is towards working away from the traditional and regulated workplace. This chapter will examine worker wellbeing external working arrangements in two different contexts in Australia: long distance commuting in the West Australian mining sector and enforced working from home arrangements occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Leadership Self-Awareness, Workplace Well-Being, and Job Outcomes
Authors: Redmond Brian F.
Published: December 2024

Workplace well-being is an important component of good organizations. But workplace well-being does not happen in a vacuum—it takes leadership. The stage for success is set when leaders and followers participate in self-development that leads to self-awareness of strengths and weaknesses. Knowledge of the self allows for positive relationships among coworkers, which allows for the creation of workplace well-being. When there is workplace well-being, there is a greater likelihood for success in job outcomes such as improved job performance and lower turnover. To examine the relationship between leadership, self-awareness, workplace well-being and job outcomes, we will define each of these main concepts and place them in a model that connects them with related ideas such as self-development and resilience.
Investigating Supply Chain Disruptions at Walmart and the Boeing Company
Authors: Gates-Mayweathers Denise
Published: December 2024

This chapter explored the salient themes emerging as disruptions in the supply chain management at Walmart and Boeing. It examined how both companies have responded to highly publicized disruptions in their supply chains, compromising customer satisfaction. Complaints against Walmart were classified as: 1) Profiling (allegations of theft, race-based refusal of services, locking up items); 2) Damaged goods; 3) Billing issues; 4) Delivery problems / Missing goods; 5) Communication barriers due to delayed, inconsistent, or incoherent messages; and 6) Employee complaints. Walmart's typical response was an apology, a courtesy gift card, or a settlement. In the case of Boeing, investigations unveiled deception in business practices which resulted in inaccurate information being shared with regulating agencies as well as poor coordination of repair efforts, lack of documentation, ineffective communication, and neglect. Boeing's problems led to catastrophic failures for which Boeing has paid billions of dollars in damages. Strict monitoring will help ensure compliance with safety standards.
Benefits and Relevance of Agile Principle and Sustainable Practise to Modern Organisation
Authors: Kashyap Shivangi , Kumar Pravin
Published: December 2024

Abstract: Purpose: This research explores the synergy between agile methodologies and sustainable practices, highlighting their potential to drive innovation, operational efficiency, and organizational resilience in the modern business landscape. Design /Methodology /Approach: The study utilizes an interdisciplinary mixed-methods research design to examine the connection between agile frameworks and sustainable business, highlighting the synergy between agility and sustainability for innovation, productivity, and organisational competency. Findings: The study highlights the benefits of combining agile methodologies and sustainable practices, including improved customer satisfaction, increased employee engagement, competitive advantages, operational efficiency, profitability, and environmental benefits. Research Limitations: Research on integrating agile methodologies and sustainable practices faces limitations like generalizability, subjectivity, and measurement challenges. Further examination is needed to understand training effectiveness and performance impact.
Nurses' Intentions to Implement Sustainable Practices in Public Hospitals
Authors: Mouloudj Kamel , Bouarar Ahmed Chemseddine , Hoti Flaka , Asanza Dachel Martínez , Kabashi Doruntina
Published: December 2024

Predicting environmentally friendly behaviors in the workplace is crucial for achieving sustainability, as human actions significantly impact the environment. In the healthcare sector, nurses' behaviors can play a pivotal role in environmental protection, such as reducing energy consumption and minimizing the waste of medical supplies and medications. However, research on sustainability behavior among nurses in the workplace remains limited. This study aims to extend the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) by incorporating environmental awareness to examine nurses' intentions to adopt sustainable practices in public hospitals in Algeria. Primary data were collected from a convenience sample of 132 participants working in public hospitals through a self-administered paper survey. The results indicate that attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and environmental awareness positively influence nurses' intentions to implement sustainable practices in the workplace. The findings are expected to assist various stakeholders in developing sustainable health policies.
Pro-Environmental Behaviour to Minimize Food Waste in Agricultural Supply Chain
Authors: Roy Mallika , Akbar Delwar
Published: December 2024

With the increasing global concern over food waste and its environmental impacts, there is a growing need to understand and promote sustainable practices throughout the food production and distribution process. This study explores the pro-environmental behaviours of the supply chain actors and their employees that can help minimise food waste within the agricultural supply chain. This study used a thematic literature review method to draw empirical evidence on, to explore the components, factors and impacts of pro-environmental behaviour towards reducing food waste across the agricultural supply chain. The study found that consumer education campaigns, the adoption of innovative technologies for waste management and development of food rescue organisations can help develop pro-environmental behaviours among the supply chain actors to reduce food waste. These findings are useful for policymakers, industry professionals, and researchers to develop effective strategies for minimizing food in the agricultural supply chain.
Innovations and Challenges in Space Medicine and Healthcare
Authors: Korade Kirti Satish , Muneshwar Rajesh
Published: December 2024

The lack of readiness levels for humans is delaying their inclusion in technology development and making it difficult to identify human health hazards. Developing medical capabilities for spaceflight independently and creating a safety framework is crucial for aligning spaceflight medical capability with terrestrial medical requirements. Space travel affects human health due to physiological changes, stress exposure, and limited medical care. Flight surgeons play a vital role in safeguarding astronauts' wellness and functionality. Some studies have suggested strategies to help astronauts overcome challenges, including 3D printing for personalized medicine in space exploration. Spaceflight affects crewmembers by exposing them to physical and mental stressors, requiring adaptation to microgravity, and reducing their infection-fighting ability. Space travel affects human health at the cellular level and influences processes like cancer cell survival. Proposed solutions for space medicine include Point-of-care Ultrasound Training and AI algorithms for automated image interpretation.
BIM Technologies in Ukraine: State and Development Prospects
Authors: Surianinov Mykola , Kirichenko Dariya , Chuchmai Oleksandr , Stashenko Mikhail
Published: December 2024

The work is devoted to the state and prospects for the development of BIM technologies in Ukraine. A review and analysis of domestic and foreign publications on the problem under study was carried out. The regulatory framework has been analyzed. It is argued that many problems of introducing building information modeling in the construction industry of foreign countries and, especially, Ukraine still require solutions. Several groups of specific problems associated with the implementation of BIM technologies are considered: in terms of design; in terms of construction; in terms of operation. The main activities for the successful implementation of BIM technologies in Ukraine are highlighted: combining best practices for the formation of regulations for BIM processes, taking into account international experience; a single data exchange unit for CAD integration and state coordination of this exchange; revision of existing budget standards; additional development of new cost estimates that take into account new technologies, new materials, machines and mechanisms; a unified coding system for enlarged units and structural elements of buildings in CAD systems with reference to estimate standards; unified classification of resources and services for construction in accordance with BIM technologies and harmonization with international standards; creation and maintenance of a database of regional prices for material resources; a unified open data format for transferring an information model of an object at different stages of design, construction, and operation into various software products; mandatory regulatory and financial support from the state.
Development of a Numerical Model of the "Soil-Foundation-Building" System
Authors: Purdenko Roman , Maiboroda Roman , Rashkevich Nina , Otrosh Yurii
Published: December 2024

The aim of this work is to develop a numerical model and perform numerical simulations of avalanche-like collapse of buildings and structures in case of fire and explosions, taking into account the peculiarities of soil performance and its properties. The LIRA-SAPR software is a promising tool for calculations and modelling.
Investigation of the Mechanical Properties of Recycled Cotton Denim Fabric
Authors: Haq Hasan Mazharul , Azim Md. Abdul , Islam Md. Imranul , Rahman Arifur , Bijoy Moinul Islam
Published: December 2024

The increasing global demand for denim jeans necessitates sustainable practices in both production and disposal. This study investigates the mechanical properties of recycled cotton denim fabric, focusing on tensile strength, tear strength, and fabric density (GSM), in accordance with international testing standards. Results show a decrease in tensile strength but an increase in tear strength for recycled cotton denim. Specifically, there is a strong positive correlation between the tearing strength of the weft yarns in waste and recycled denim (r = 0.797, p < 0.001). Additionally, the recycled fabric has a higher GSM, indicating improved material density. These findings suggest that recycled cotton denim could be used in various durable products, such as handbags and shoes, promoting sustainability within the textile industry. Limitations include the reduced fiber length after recycling, which necessitated blending with raw cotton to achieve optimal quality. Despite equipment limitations, this research provides valuable insights into the potential of recycling cotton denim. Future work should explore advanced recycling techniques to improve quality and broaden application opportunities.
Design of an Automatic Transmitter Coil Positioning Adjustment System for Wireless Charging
Authors: Kasemsinthu Natchaporn , Jeebklum Pharida , Panya-Isara Chawalit , Sumpavakup Chaiyut
Published: December 2024

This article presents the design of an automatic power transmission position adjustment system for small-sized cars and studies the efficiency of power transfer through the alignment of transmitting and receiving coil windings used in power transfer. The results show that the efficiency of electrical power transfer is highest when the transmitting and receiving coils are aligned at 92.65%, corresponding to the position (0,0). Thus, (0,0) serves as the reference point for designing the power transmission position adjustment system. The entire system is processed and controlled by a microcontroller. In the experiments, the car needs to park on the position adjustment set, maintaining a distance between the sensor and the rear bumper greater than or equal to 10 cm. Testing distances between the car's bumper and the ultrasonic sensor are set at 10, 15, 20, and 25 cm. The results obtained from the testing are compiled to assess positional misalignment.
Effect of Paddy Straw, Paddy Husk, and Cinnamon Residue as mulching in Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) Cultivation in Low Country Wet Zone in Ultisols
Authors: Jayaweera W. M. C. S. , Amarasinghe S. R. , Ranawake A. L.
Published: December 2024

An experiment was conducted to determine the most effective mulching material for maximizing turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) yield. The study was carried out in the low country wet zone of Sri Lanka, specifically in Ultisols, during 2021 and 2022, using locally available mulching materials, including paddy straw, paddy husk, and cinnamon residue. A control group was included, where turmeric was grown without any mulching material. The experimental setup followed a Randomized Complete Block Design, with three plots, each comprising thirty plants arranged in the rows of the plot at a spacing of 30X30 cm between plants. Plants at the edges of the beds were excluded from data collection. While there was no significant difference in per plant yield between turmeric plants grown with paddy husk and paddy straw mulching (1251 g and 1227 g), all three mulching materials resulted in significantly higher yields compared to the control group. Results revealed that turmeric plants grown with cinnamon mulching exhibited the highest yield (1523 g), suggesting cinnamon is also an effective mulching material for turmeric cultivation in Ultisols, the same as other mulching materials. Additionally, turmeric plants grown with cinnamon mulching showed significantly higher tuber dimensions, such as the number of mother rhizomes (5.97), primary fingers (31.10), and secondary fingers (134.1) compared to the control, further highlighting its effectiveness. However, mulching had no significant effect on the number of leaves, leaf blade length, and leaf petiole length in both control and treatment groups, suggesting other factors may play a more dominant role in determining these parameters. Cinnamon residue can also be an effective mulching material for achieving better turmeric yields in Ultisols.
Unveiling the Hidden Gems: Transforming Cities into Tourist Destinations through Strategic Branding
Authors: Hewage T. U. , Weerawansa S. R. S. D. K.
Published: December 2024

This study examines the possibilities of achieving an improved and sustainable tourism sector through Strategic City Branding in Sri Lanka. It will also explore the impact of branding the city of Colombo in attracting more visitors and supporting the economic revival of the country. The study will examine the stakeholders' perception of how branding ideologies will affect them and Sri Lanka tourism in general, investigate how well the Strategic Place Branding Management Model can assist the branding process of the cities in Sri Lanka, and explore how important branding cities, particularly the city of Colombo, would be in inspiring Sri Lanka tourism. The study follows qualitative approaches with a cross-sectional design and inductive procedures. Primary data collection is based on extracting information from professionals, business leaders, officials, and other stakeholders, chosen through ‘snowball’ sampling, connected to the industry through in-depth interviews and focus groups. Secondary data is collected from numerous journal articles and other accepted material that have been published in the past. Stakeholders agree with the concept of Sri Lanka establishing its credentials by branding its cities to derive the best from the latest trends of sustainable tourism.
Unveiling an Unusual Presentation Linked to a Common Bacteria: Pyomyositis
Authors: Singh Santosh Kumar , Vashisht Rohit , Arivalagan Balakrishnan , Arora Rahil
Published: December 2024

Pyomyositis, a bacterial infection characterized by abscess formation within skeletal muscles, is more prevalent in tropical regions. It primarily affects individuals with immunocompromised status, trauma, or recent infections. Prompt diagnosis of pyomyositis is challenging due to its resemblance to other musculoskeletal disorders. Delayed or inadequate treatment can lead to severe complications. This case report presents a unique case of pyomyositis in a young man with symptoms of pain, swelling of the left calf, and nonspecific systemic manifestations. Diagnostic imaging revealed abscesses in the gastrocnemius muscle. Excision biopsy and culture confirmed the diagnosis of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus pyomyositis. The patient received antistaphylococcal antibiotics and exhibited a positive response to treatment. Pyomyositis is often missed due to nonspecific signs and a wide range of differential diagnoses. We hereby present this not-so-usual manifestation of common bacteria in the tropics.
Probable PJP in an Immunosuppressed Host
Authors: Gandhi Aashna , Gandhi Pankaj
Published: December 2024

This is a case report of a 68 year old immunosuppressed female patient due to rheumatoid arthritis, who developed fever, cough & breathlessness with desaturation. HRCT chest showed bilateral ground glass opacities with peripheral sparing. S beta-D-glucan & S LDH were high. Therefore, the patient was diagnosed to have probable Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia and treated with cotrimoxazole (later changed to primaquine/clindamycin due to ADRs) & a tapering dose of corticosteroids. She had complete clinical & radiological recovery.
Loudness tolerance level among individuals with misophonia: A psychoacoustic assessment
Authors: Aryal Sajana , Prabhu Prashanth
Published: December 2024

Objective:

Our study aims to investigate loudness tolerance ability among individuals with misophonia. By focusing on this specific aspect, we aim to contribute to a better understanding of misophonia and shed light on the underlying auditory mechanisms involved in the disorder.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was performed with students from the University of Mysore. The revised Amsterdam Misophonia Scale was used to determine the severity of misophonia. The participants were divided into three groups based on their misophonia severity: control, mild, and moderate to severe. The loudness discomfort level test was conducted among all the participants, and their discomfort level was analyzed across the frequency range. The statistical analysis was conducted using one-way ANOVA.

Results:

The analysis showed a statistically significant difference in the loudness tolerance level at low frequencies between the different groups of misophonia. Further research with a more extensive and diverse population is needed to validate and generalize these findings.

Conclusion:

Our study’s results contribute to a better understanding of misophonia and shed light on the underlying auditory mechanisms involved in the disorder.
Determination and Prioritizing of the Factors Affecting the Tolerance to Shift Work Using Techniques of the Delphi and Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchical Process
Authors: Shakerian Mahnaz , Yazdanirad Saeid , Khoshakhlagh Amir Hossein , Mousavi Seyed Mahdi
Published: December 2024

Aim:

This study aimed to identify, classify, and prioritize the factors affecting tolerance to shift work using Delphi and fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (FAHP) techniques.

Methods:

This descriptive analytical study was conducted in 2023. First, the literature review and Delphi technique identified the factors affecting tolerance to shift work. Then, these factors were grouped into five categories. The FAHP was used to prioritize the factors. Finally, the data were analyzed using MATLAB software (version 2019a).

Results:

Thirty-two factors were identified and grouped into five categories. Based on the results of FAHP, the relative weights of individual factors, working conditions, working hours, family and living conditions, and social conditions were computed as 0.231, 0.211, 0.187, 0.186, and 0.182, respectively.

Conclusion:

These results highlight the significance of factors influencing tolerance to shift work and can aid in planning preventive measures for the decrease of shiftwork disorders.
Navigating the Labyrinth of Gender Incongruence in Conservative Societies: A Call for Compassion and Understanding
Authors: Boro Hiya
Published: December 2024

In the conservative heartland of Haryana, India, a poignant encounter in a hospital chamber revealed the raw, often overlooked struggles of gender incongruence. A young woman, presenting in masculine attire and identifying herself with the pronouns ‘he’ and ‘him’, sought not only medical assistance for transition to male but also the validation of his identity amidst a backdrop of societal prejudice. This case underscores the complexities faced by individuals with gender incongruence in a society resistant to non-binary identities. The narrative illustrates the profound impact of societal norms on personal identity and highlights the urgent need for comprehensive support systems. It calls for a multifaceted approach encompassing medical, psychological, and social support, advocating for education and empathy to dismantle ignorance and foster acceptance. By embracing diversity and advocating for transgender rights, healthcare professionals and society can facilitate the journey toward self-acceptance and dignity for individuals struggling with gender incongruence. The resilience and courage of this young patient serve as a powerful testament to the human spirit’s quest for authenticity, urging a compassionate and inclusive societal transformation.
The Influence of Parental Dental Anxiety on Children’s Acceptance of Dental Treatment
Authors: Khinda Vineet , Bajaj Nitika , Khinda Paramjit Kaur
Published: December 2024

Background::

Dental anxiety is a significant issue that impacts both parents and children, with parental anxiety potentially influencing children’s behavior during dental visits. Understanding this relationship is critical to improving pediatric dental experiences and outcomes.

Aim::

The aim of this study is to evaluate the influence of parental dental anxiety on children’s acceptance of dental treatment.

Materials and Methods::

A cross-sectional study involving 500 child–parent pairs was conducted in a pediatric dental clinic in Faridkot, India, from February 2024 to June 2024. Parental dental anxiety was assessed using the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale, and children’s treatment acceptance was evaluated using the Frankl’s Behavior Rating Scale. Statistical analyses included correlation and regression to determine the relationship between variables.

Results::

Parental anxiety levels were categorized as low (42%), moderate (35%), and high (23%). Children of parents with low anxiety exhibited 85% cooperative behavior, compared to 40% among those with highly anxious parents. A significant inverse relationship was observed between parental anxiety and children’s acceptance of dental treatment (P < 0.05).

Conclusion::

Parental dental anxiety significantly impacts children’s acceptance of dental treatment. Interventions targeting parental anxiety may improve pediatric dental care experiences and outcomes.