bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A braconid wasp (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) with second recurrent vein in forewing from Lower Cretaceous Spanish amber
Authors: ÁLVAREZ-PARRA SERGIO , JOUAULT CORENTIN , AZAR DANY
Published: August 2024

Braconid wasps (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) represent the second most diverse family of hymenopterans today. Despite their remarkable current diversity, their Cretaceous fossil record is sparse in comparison. Here, we describe Cantabriazyx perezdelafuentei Álvarez-Parra & Jouault gen. et sp. nov. from the Lower Cretaceous (middle Albian) amber of El Soplao, in northern Iberian Peninsula. This new species shows similarities in wing venation with Stephanorhyssalus longiscapus Belokobylskij & Jouault, 2021 from mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber. Both taxa share a combination of plesiomorphic and more derived characters, such as forewing with distinctly antefurcal condition of first recurrent vein (1m-cu) and presence of second recurrent vein (2m-cu), and hind wing with 2Cu. The presence of the second recurrent vein in the forewing is characteristic of Ichneumonidae, †Praeichneumonidae, and the braconid subfamily †Eoichneumoninae, while it is not common in other braconids. We compare the studied specimen with other Cretaceous Braconidae and with Apozyx penyai Mason, 1978 (Apozyginae), the only known extant braconid with a second recurrent vein. Furthermore, we discuss the characters of the braconid venation from an evolutionary standpoint. A checklist of all known braconids with second recurrent vein in forewing (including atavisms) is provided, together with an updated key for braconid genera possessing this vein. An illustration of ichneumonoid wing venations is included as a comparison framework.
The species of Pteromalus Swederus in America north of Mexico with a 4:4 mandibular formula, and description of a potential biocontrol agent of the introduced pest Anthonomus rubi (Herbst) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Authors: GIBSON GARY A. P. , URIEL YONATHAN , SHERWOOD JADE , ABRAM PAUL K. , GARIEPY TARA D. , ZHANG Y. MILES , BAUR HANNES , GATES MICHAEL , FRANKLIN MICHELLE T.
Published: August 2024

The strawberry blossom weevil, Anthonomus rubi (Herbst) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), is native to Europe, Asia, and parts of North Africa, and has recently established in British Columbia, Canada and Washington State, USA. To determine whether any parasitoids in British Columbia parasitize this recently-established pest, A. rubi-infested buds of Rosaceous host plants were collected and reared for parasitoid emergence. Pteromalus quadridentatus Gibson n. sp. (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea: Pteromalidae) is described from both sexes reared as solitary ectoparasitoids of A. rubi. Males and females are partly characterized by both mandibles having four teeth (4:4 mandibular formula), which is known for only four of the other previously recorded 39 extant species of Pteromalus from the Nearctic region—P. apum (Retzius), P. cassotis Walker, P. hemileucae Gahan, and P. puparum (L.). The species of Pteromalus recorded from the Nearctic region are listed along with notes on their known mandibular dentition or other features that differentiate them from P. quadridentatus. The five species with a 4:4 mandibular formula are keyed, diagnosed and illustrated through macrophotography. Additionally, both sexes of P. quadridentatus are described more comprehensively, including variation in structure, colour and sculpture correlated with body size; the morphological species limits of P. cassotis are also discussed. Species of Pteromalus with a 4:4 mandibular formula from other regions where A. rubi is recorded are also listed and discussed, but only sufficiently to exclude them as potentially conspecific with P. quadridentatus. A phylogenetic tree constructed using Maximum Likelihood based on COI barcode sequences showed strong support for P. quadridentatus being monophyletic and sister to P. bedeguaris (Thomson). Pteromalus quadridentatus is the first parasitoid recorded from A. rubi in its invaded range, although it is still uncertain whether this parasitoid is native to North America or was introduced along with A. rubi or another host species.
The first species of Nandius Coulon in China (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Pselaphinae)
Authors: JAŁOSZYŃSKI PAWEŁ
Published: August 2024

Nandius Coulon was known as a Himalayan and sub-Himalayan genus, and is currently comprising four species distributed in Nepal and northern India. The first species from Yunnan, a subtropical region of China, is recorded, with description of Nandius yunnanicus sp. nov. Issues related to identification of Nandius, Pyxidicerus Motschulsky, and Parapyxidicerus Sawada are discussed, and an updated key to identification of Pyxidicerina genera is given.
Recognition of Mesoscalpellum Hoek, 1907 sensu Newman & Ross, 1971 (Cirripedia: Scalpellidae: Scalpellinae) as a valid genus: a novel approach using ontogenetic patterns in the classification of scalpellid barnacles
Authors: SHALAEVA KATE , BOXSHALL GEOFF
Published: August 2024

Our ability to reconstruct the evolutionary history of deep-water scalpellid barnacles (Crustacea: Cirripedia: Scalpellidae) and to understand their geographical distributions and ecology, is limited by the lack of a robust classification system. Analysis of the ontogeny of scalpellids highlights the significant morphological changes that occur during development from the smallest, recently settled juveniles up to full-grown specimens. Externally, these ontogenetic alterations can include changes in size, shape, and in the capitulum/peduncle ratio, as well as changes in the shape of plates resulting from modifications in the patterns of calcification. Using an exemplar developmental series of Mesoscalpellum carinatum (Hoek, 1881), we reveal how the misinterpretation of such changes has resulted in the recognition of polyphyletic and paraphyletic taxonomic units and how this has impacted all previous classifications proposed for the Scalpellidae. Our study explores a novel approach to the recognition of Mesoscalpellum Hoek, 1907 sensu Newman & Ross, 1971 as a monophyletic unit, based on the incorporation of data derived from developmental patterns. The re-establishment of this genus leads to significant systematic rearrangement. Multiple taxa currently placed in three scalpellid subfamilies and five genera were recognised as synonyms of just three Mesoscalpellum species—M. carinatum (Hoek, 1881), Mesoscalpellum sanctaebarbarae (Pilsbry, 1907) and Mesoscalpellum japonicum (Hoek, 1883). Two scalpellid genera, Barbascalpellum Zevina, 1978 and Pteroscalpellum Zevina, 1978, are no longer regarded as valid. In future, if study of scalpellid developmental series demonstrates that the holotype of a species is ambiguous and cannot be used for the precise application of the name of a taxon, a level of type status should be assigned to the full-grown specimen to promote its use for comparative study. We suggest that our perspective will help to resolve the confusion around the traditional typological grouping of other scalpellid genera and will foster the creation of a robust scalpellid classification.
Galatheoid squat lobsters (Crustacea: Decapoda: Anomura) from the epipelagic bottom of the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone, with descriptions of five new species
Authors: TIWARI SHIVAM , PADATE VINAY P. , CUBELIO SHERINE SONIA , OSAWA MASAYUKI
Published: August 2024

Seven species of galatheoid crustaceans, including five new species, are reported from the southeastern Arabian Sea, southwestern Bay of Bengal, and western Andaman Sea, India, based on material collected from 56 to 113 m depths. Distinctions between the five new species (Galathea bharata sp. nov., G. kalingasagara sp. nov., G. quadrangularis sp. nov., Nanogalathea longispina sp. nov., and Sadayoshia brevirostrum sp. nov.) and their morphological close congeners are given in detail. The genus Nanogalathea Tirmizi & Javed, 1980 is rediagnosed to include N. longispina sp. nov. Trapezionida latior Baba, 2005 is recorded for the first time from Indian waters, indicating northward extension of its known geographical range. A specimen tentatively referred to Galathea aff. nasimae Karasawa, 2019 is also reported from the Andaman Sea.
A taxonomic study of the genus Antepipona de Saussure, 1855 (Hymenoptera: Vespidae: Eumeninae) from China, with two new species and three new records
Authors: QIN JIONG , CHEN BIN , LI TING-JING
Published: August 2024

In this paper, two new species, namely Antepipona foveapronota Qin, Chen & Li, sp. nov. from Hainan (China) and A. xinjiangensis Qin, Chen & Li, sp. nov. from Xinjiang (China) are described and illustrated. A. varentzowi (Morawitz, 1895), A. luzonensis (Rohwer, 1919), and A. curialis (Morawitz, 1895) are newly recorded from China. In addition, the infrequent species A. tylocifica Kurzenko, 1977 is also redescribed. A key to the Chinese species of the genus Antepipona is provided.
A New Second-order Maximum-principle-preserving Finite-volume Method for Flow Problems Involving Discontinuous Coefficients
Authors: Njifenjou Abdou , Mansou Abel Toudna , Sali Moussa
Published: August 2024

A new development of Finite Volumes (FV, for short) and its theoretical analysis are the purpose of this work. Recall that FV are known as powerful tools to address equations of conservation laws (mass, energy, momentum,...). Over the last two decades investigators have succeeded in putting in place a mathematical framework for the theoretical analysis of FV. A perfect illustration of this progress is the design and mathematical analysis of Discrete Duality Finite Volumes (DDFV, for short). We propose now a new class of DDFV for 2nd order elliptic equations involving discontinuous diffusion coefficients or nonlinearities. A one-dimensional linear elliptic equation is addressed here for illustrating the ideas behind our numerical strategy. The algebraic structure of the discrete system we have got is different from that of standard DDFV. The main novelty is that the so-called diamond mesh elements are confined in homogeneous zones for flow problems governed by piecewise constant coefficients. This is got from our judicious definition of the primal mesh. The gain is that there is no need to compute homogenized coefficients to be allocated to the so-called diamond cells as required to conventional DDFV. Notice that poor homogenized permeability allocated to diamond elements leads to poor approximations of fluxes across grid-block interfaces. Moreover for 1-D flow problems in a porous medium involving permeability discontinuities (piecewise constant permeability for instance) the proposed FV scheme leads to a symmetric positive-definite discrete system that meets the discrete maximum principle; we have shown its second order convergence under relevant assumptions.
The Role of Exosomal Long Non-Coding RNAs in Tumors and Tumour Metabolism
Authors: Luo Yaomin , Liu Yanhong , Jiang Zhen
Published: August 2024

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are RNAs that do not have protein-coding functions and are involved in a wide range of important regulatory processes through four modes of (1) signaling (2) guidance (3) structural backbone (4) decoying, which regulate gene expression at epigenetic, transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles released by various cells, whose contents are protected from degradation and stabilized in the extracellular environment due to their lipid bilayer membrane structure, and which are thought to play an important role in many diseases, including tumors. The exosomes secreted by tumor cells and stromal cells contain proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, cytokines, transcription factors and other biologically active substances. With the help of exosomes, they are stably transported between cells and mediate the exchange of substances and information between cells in order to achieve intercellular communication, thus affecting the biological activities of target cells. Among them, lncRNAs are selectively sorted into exosomes, which can regulate tumor metabolism as well as tumor progression through exosomes in various ways. In this paper, the role of exosomal lncRNAs in the tumor microenvironment and tumor metabolism is reviewed, with a view to providing markers, targets and directions for clinical diagnosis, tumor therapy and tumor-related research.
Matlab-Simulink Model of CHMT for Internal Climate in Greenhouses
Authors: Kande Dickson , Nyamwala Fredrick , Rotich Titus
Published: August 2024

Over the past twenty years, Kenya's food security has been threatened by the sub-division of land into tiny areas and the clearance of forests to make way for settlement. These actions have an impact on soil moisture, rainfall patterns, and regional temperature changes. Clear response plans and adaption techniques have been required to address the threats that have arisen. Greenhouse farming, where warmer temperatures are attained and the impact of unfavourable weather conditions on plants is mitigated by the enclosure, is one strategy being used to combat the production of food and climate change. Nevertheless, crop production and quality are negatively impacted by traditional techniques of regulating temperature and humidity through arbitrary opening and closing of the greenhouse walls. In light of this, the goal of this research was to enhance greenhouse farming as it exists today by implementing a dynamic, adjustable system that would create ideal climate conditions for plant growth. This mostly entailed controlling the greenhouse's humidity, temperature, and vapour pressure deficit to the ideal ranges needed by various plants. The humidity and air temperature within the greenhouse were the controlled microclimate conditions. These were accomplished by simulating the convectional heat transfer and mass transfer that occur inside the greenhouse to control the temperature and humidity, and by developing mathematical model utilizing differential equations. Proportional Integral Derivative (PID) was utilized to automatically modify SIMULINK, a block-based modelling and simulation tool. Regardless of the different external conditions, the numerical values for internal temperature and humidity were calculated and graphically depicted. The model made it possible to modify the outcomes according to the needs of the plant. To increase crop productivity in greenhouse farming, it was suggested that a physical prototype model be constructed and integrated into the greenhouse construction.
Quantitative Analysis of Iron Activity in Agricultural Soils Using X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry: Comparative Study with an Undisturbed Reference Site in Niankhene, Senegal
Authors: Dione Djicknack , Faye Papa , Ndiaye Oumar , Ndiaye Nogaye , Sy Moussa , Traoré Alassane , Ndao Ababacar
Published: August 2024

An essential micronutrient for plant growth and development, iron (Fe) affects a number of physiological processes, including respiration and photosynthesis. This study compare the amounts of iron in agricultural zones and reference zones, describe the geographic distribution of iron, and assess its accessibility to cultures. The aim is to assess the deficiencies and excess soil disturbance in the Niankhène agricultural site while maintaining a stable site. Soil samples were taken at 0–20 cm and 20–40 cm depths from 47 agricultural stations and three reference points using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy. Significant variation in Fe concentrations was found by the research, with an average of roughly 3310.95 ppm and moderate variation between samples. An analysis conducted in comparison with reference locations revealed a widespread lack of Fe in the research area, with 85.71% of samples displaying depletion and only 14.29% displaying accumulation of Fe. This discrepancy emphasizes the necessity of focused soil management techniques to raise Niankhene's agricultural output. The results highlight how crucial it is to use site-specific soil management strategies in order to overcome Fe deficits and raise crop yields. This research highlights the possibility for establishing targeted fertilization and corrective procedures to maximize Fe availability by utilizing XRF technology for reliable soil nutrient monitoring. The study's findings offer insightful information for enhancing fertilization techniques and improving soil management techniques, which will support sustainable farming methods and increased crop yield in the area.
Structural and Process Factors Influencing Documentation Practice in Private and Public Labour Wards of Parirenyatwa Maternity Hospital, Zimbabwe
Authors: Mutema Esther , Haruzivish Clara , Mhlanga Maxwell
Published: August 2024

Background: Documentation is crucial for evidence-based nursing. Proper documentation ensures effective communication and quality patient care, while poor documentation compromises care. This study compared structural and process factors affecting documentation quality and patient outcomes in private and public labor wards at Parirenyatwa Mbuya Nehanda Maternity Hospital (MNMH). Methods: A multiple methods approach was used. A total of 177 records were assessed for quality documentation, and 10 midwives were observed on practice documentation. Additionally, 116 interviews were conducted with midwives to elicit information on documentation practices. Data was collected and quantitative data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version (SPSS version 20). Qualitative data was manually analysed and thematic analysis was used to generate codes and themes. Quantitative data was presented in tables, graphs, as frequencies and percentages while qualitative data was presented in narrative form. Results: With regards to structural factors, being in a public labour ward was significantly associated with increased the likelihood of higher nurse to patient ratio compared to being in a private labour ward (p=0.002). No process indicator was significantly associated with the type of labour. Those in the public labour ward were more likely to have complications and admitted in (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) NICU (p=0.008). Conclusion: The study determined that there was poor documentation practice in both public and private labour wards. Though there was a high level of awareness of critical aspects of labour to document and the importance of documentation by midwives from both wards, this did not necessarily translate to practice. There is a need to also formulate standard operating protocols and guidelines to guide and standardize documentation at MNMH.
The Particularities of Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Children with Type 1 Diabetes: About 2 Cases
Authors: Bouarab Ilham , Yakine Fatima , Tyhami Salma , Inboui Fatim , Slaoui Bouchra
Published: August 2024

The combination of pulmonary tuberculosis and type 1 diabetes is a significant public health problem, especially in developing countries, where the incidence of both diseases is rising sharply. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), by 2022, 23% of tuberculosis cases will be in Africa. Morocco is one of the countries with a medium incidence of tuberculosis. The Ministry of Health has launched a national strategic plan for the prevention and control of tuberculosis. However, there is no national study on the prevalence of tuberculosis in diabetic children in Morocco. Several studies in the literature have investigated the specifics of this association, and have shown that there is a two-way association between tuberculosis and type 1 diabetes. Latent tuberculosis is most common in diabetic children, while active tuberculosis can give rise to severe and atypical presentations. In this study 2 cases have been reported of type 1 diabetes associated with pulmonary tuberculosis, of varying severity, in a 15-year-old child known to be diabetic and an 18-month-old infant with inaugural diabetes, in order to determine the clinical, paraclinical, therapeutic and evolutionary particularities of tuberculosis in these children.
Application of 2-D Molybdenum Disulfide in the Field of Photoelectric Detection
Authors: Sun Xiaochen , Jian Jiaying , Jian Zengyun
Published: August 2024

The research of photodetectors is rooted in the principle of photoelectric effect, which has become indispensable in human society. Photodetectors convert light signals into electrical signals and represent a crucial subdivision within modern optoelectronic technology. They play significant roles in optical communications, remote sensing, biomedical applications, industrial automation, and more. Two-dimensional MoS2 has attracted considerable attention in optoelectronics due to its unique structure and performance characteristics. The research methods for photodetectors primarily include: Material Selection: Using semiconductor materials such as silicon, germanium, gallium arsenide, and indium arsenide. Silicon, in particular, is widely applied in optical communications, computer networks, medical diagnostics, and more. Technological Improvements: This involves high sensitivity detection techniques, automatic alignment technologies, and composite integration techniques to enhance the performance and application domains of photodetectors. Application Development: Exploring new applications of photodetectors in optical communications, medical imaging, security monitoring, etc., and improving their reliability and efficiency in practical applications.Research on photodetectors not only enhances their efficiency and performance in fields like communication, medicine, and security monitoring but also lays a solid foundation for future technological innovation and application expansion. With continuous advancements in technology, photodetectors are demonstrating vast application prospects and substantial market potential. Finally, the prospects and challenges associated with photodetectors in practical applications are also discussed.
Implementation of English Language Competence –Based Curriculum in Tanzanian Secondary Schools: A Case Mtama District
Authors: Issa Zamda , Mwakapina Job , Nyinondi Onesmo
Published: August 2024

The study assessed the implementation of the English language Competence Based Curriculum (CBC) in Tanzanian secondary schools, with a focus on Mtama District. The study employed the Communicative Competence Model (CCM) to guide the study. Data were collected in Mtama District in April 2023, where the study used a mixed methods design involving random and purposeful sampling. The study focused on 21 English teachers and 380 students, employing a complementary research design that integrated qualitative methods such as interviews with quantitative techniques like Likert scale questionnaires. The findings revealed that English teachers in Mtama District implement CBC at a medium level; the study sheds light on the practical aspects of CBC performance, providing an understanding of approaches, strategies, and methods. The study concludes that the successful implementation of the CBC is a collective responsibility, and it is crucial for English teachers to be proactive in their training and development. The study also recommends the effectiveness of different models of English teacher training and professional development programs, specifically to CBC methodologies and innovative teaching strategies and pedagogical approaches that enhance the integration of CBC principles in English language teaching.
Quality Assessment of a Learning Resources Centers' Services at Omani Private Schools Using SERVQUAL Scale
Authors: Musawi Ali , Al-Mahruqi Marwa , Al-Ramadhani Shaimaa , Al-Zakwani Shams , Al-Oweimri Salim , Al-Hosni Mahmood , Al-Alawi Ibrahim , Al-Yaarubi Sumaya , Al-Nabhani Iman , Al-Maqbali Thouraiya , Al-Daraai Houda , Al-Mahroqi Zakiya , Al-Rusheidi Muna , Al-Rawahi Aisha , Rashdi Salwa , Al-Resheidi Adhraa , Al-Habsi Afrah , Al-Naabi Marwa , Al-Aamri Asila
Published: August 2024

The increasing role of learning resources, electronic publishing, and the emergence of new innovations in LRCs necessitate significant changes in educational schemes, systems, methods, and resources. Studies highlight the significance of a school resource center in aiding students and teachers in designing, producing, using, and delivering resource materials, improving classroom environments, and providing a diverse range of learning resources. This study examines the perceived and expected service quality at the Learning Resources Center of Seeb International School in Oman. As well as investigating the significant differences in service quality due to some variables (gender, job, and experience). Utilizing the SERVQUAL model, the research explores five dimensions of service quality: reliability, responsiveness, assurance, tangibility, and empathy. The sample group comprised 15 participants, including teachers and administrators. The findings indicate that participants at Seeb International School's LRC perceive a higher level of service quality than predicted by the SERVQUAL model, with favorable opinions and high mean scores suggesting their expectations have been met or exceeded. The analysis reveals that gender does not significantly impact perceived service quality, but job category influences perceptions, with administrators rating service quality lower than teachers. Additionally, experience plays a significant role, as participants with more experience rate service quality higher than those with less experience. These results contribute to understanding service quality at the LRC of private schools in Oman and provide valuable insights for school administrators to enhance their learning resource services.
Climate Change Adaptation Information Usability Among Maize Farmers in Ido Local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Kayode Arimi , Christiana Adebayo Olubunmi
Published: August 2024

The availability of climate change information has not always led to more successful adaptation; even when climate change adaptation information is available, there are still obstacles to its efficient use. Furthermore, the tactics required to communicate climate information to end-users for successful adaptation have received less attention. This study focuses on utilization of available climate change adaptation information among maize farmers in the study area. Simple random sampling technique was used to select 203 respondents for data collection. The data were collected using a questionnaire and analysed through the use of the standard statistical package for social sciences. The communication strategies used include inter-personal, audio, visual and social media. The results revealed that the strategies used in communicating climate change adaptation information to maize farmers in the study area yielded great influence in terms of benefits to the farmers such as the increase in income, prevention of yield loss, reduced soil degradation, maintaining good human health status, and improved weed management. The information that is popularly utilised is mixed cropping (61.6%), water management (58.1%), and early warning (58.1%). A significant relationship existed between communication channels (r=0.8, p<.05) and respondents’ climate change adaptation information utilization. Poor understanding of the message and lack of funds to put the information into practice hinders some respondents from utilising adaptation information. Hence, extension agents need to locate these category farmers and link them with service providers that could provide incentives or credit facilities for sustainable utilisation of available information to combat climate change.
Gender-Specific Mental Health Outcomes in Central America: A Natural Experiment
Authors: Montesinos-Yufa Hugo , Nagasuru-McKeever Thea
Published: August 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent restrictions have had profound impacts on mental health worldwide, with varying effects across different demographics and regions. Specifically, COVID lockdown measures are known to have had a disparate impact on women. This study aims to better understand this phenomenon by investigating the effect of COVID-19 stringency measures on depression rates among men and women in the Republic of Nicaragua and the Republic of Honduras. The two neighboring countries serve as a natural experiment: the former noted for its relaxed approach to the pandemic, and the latter implementing stricter lockdown measures. Using a Bayesian structural time series model, yearly depression rates were analyzed in both countries, utilizing various weather indicators as predictors, including yearly rainfall and average ground temperature data. In both countries, rates of depression among women were historically higher than among men. The difference in depression rates between women and men increased during the intervention period in both countries (p < 0.001). However, the absolute effect of the intervention in Honduras was significantly higher (p < 0.001) at 0.39 (95% CI: 0.37, 0.41) compared to Nicaragua, which was 0.26 (95% CI: 0.21, 0.31). These findings suggest that the higher stringency measures in Honduras, including prolonged lockdowns and restrictions on movement, may have disproportionately affected women's mental health. These results highlight the importance of considering women’s wellbeing when designing and implementing public health policies, particularly during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Philosophical Analysis of the Legitimacy of Political Power in Tanzania from a Lockean Perspective
Authors: Masandiko Robert , Monchena Thomas
Published: August 2024

This article conducts a philosophical analysis of the legitimacy of political power in Tanzania using John Locke’s political theory as a framework. It evolved from researcher’s observation and empirical studies that concerned political legitimacy in Tanzania. The lack of philosophical approach opened away for philosophical investigations and the necessity of involving philosophical views like that of the John Locke, in addressing of the shaking political legitimacy in Tanzania. The factors such as; allegations of corruption, restricted freedom of expression and limited access to justice, stimulated the author into philosophical inquiring, in accordance to John Locke’s political philosophy on the theory of legitimacy of political power. The Article examines how Locke’s principles of consent, protection of individual rights, and limited government apply within Tanzania’s socio-political context. The study highlights significant challenges to political legitimacy, including allegations of electoral manipulation, constraints on political freedoms, and governance issues such as corruption and lack of transparency. Recommendations are proposed to enhance democratic governance and accountability in Tanzania, emphasizing the critical need to strengthen electoral integrity, protect fundamental rights such as freedom of expression and assembly, and bolster institutional frameworks for transparency and judicial independence. By applying Locke’s principles, this analysis aims to contribute insights into the dynamics of political authority in Tanzania and suggest pathways for fostering a more inclusive, accountable, and legitimate governance framework aligned with the aspirations of its citizens.
The Impact of Board of Directors on the Disclosure of Sustainable Development of Listed Firms
Authors: Ha Thi , Tran Manh , Duong Thi , Pham Xuan , Dao Thi , Phi Van , Nguyen Thi , Truong Van , Nguyen Thi
Published: August 2024

Vietnam is a developing country with many remarkable achievements. However, in recent years, economic and social development in Vietnam still relies heavily on the exploitation of natural resources; labor productivity is still low; production technology and consumption models still use a lot of energy and raw materials and emit a lot of waste. Vietnam's development process is facing many severe challenges, with potential risks of unsustainable development such as climate change, environmental pollution, depletion of natural resources, etc. Therefore, Vietnamese firms need to be aware that economic development is always associated with environmental protection activities and social responsibility. This study is conducted to investigate the impact level of the disclosure of sustainable development of Vietnamese listed firms. The study determines the impact of board of directors on the level of sustainable development information disclosure of these firms. Data was collected from annual reports, corporate sustainability reports, management reports, and financial reports of 345 firms in 2023. The results reveal that the level of disclosure of sustainable development of Vietnamese listed firms is low, no firm discloses 100% fully, some firms do not publish sustainable development information. The findings also show that the level of mandatory disclosure of sustainable development is higher than the level of voluntary disclosure of sustainable development. The research results show that The board of directors factors do not impact the level of mandatory disclosure of sustainable development. There are four determinants related to the board of directors that impact the level of voluntary disclosure of sustainable development, including board size, board independence, the proportion of foreign BOD members, the chairman-cum-CEO have a positive impact (in the same direction) on the level of disclosure of sustainable development. Based on the findings, several recommendations are proposed for promoting the disclosure of sustainable development information on the side of Vietnamese listed firms.
Investigating the Behaviour of Railway Track Ground Vibrations for Different Track Foundation Conditions Using FEM
Authors: Sayeed Abu , Saha Sudipta
Published: August 2024

High-speed trains are a useful friendly option for ground transportation. Railway-induced ground vibrations can have a severe impact on human health and the communities that surround rail lines. Current research is showing the problem and its solution as technology is advancing steadily, still, there are some misunderstandings. This is because the propagation of railway vibration in urban areas is complex. So, this work focuses on reducing vibration by enhancing the ballast, and sub-ballast qualities of the railway track through the use of insulation technologies. The Finite Element Method (FEM) model offers insight into how vibrations propagate over a railway track’s foundation. The FEM model can be used to forecast the frequency of vibrations. The Plaxis 3D model’s results show a reduction in vibration propagation. Sylomer is used as a damping material to absorb the vibration and block the propagation path. The application of damping material changes the track-bed system’s dynamic response, effectively decreasing vibration transmission to the surrounding soil. Stress on the surrounding soil and structure foundation is reduced by the process of vibration mitigation. Establishing a benchmark reference for soil parameters is crucial for the accurate analysis and prediction of ground behavior. By creating a detailed and standardized set of soil data, engineers and planners can better understand the characteristics and capabilities of the ground on which they intend to build.
Effect of Nitrogen Fertilizer and Seed rates on Yield and Yield Components of Bread Wheat in the Irrigated Condition of South West Shewa, Central Highland of Ethiopia
Authors: Zike Takele , Nekir Bethel , Bekele Teshome , Hassan Mohammed , Fekre Tesfahun , Negash Fetta , Yakob Tesfaye
Published: August 2024

Inappropriate seed density and fertilizer management can lead to unstable crop yields. Excessive fertilizer application can potentially cause yield loss and nitrogen (N) leaching that leads to environmental pollution. The aim of this study was to explore the optimal N application rate and seed rate on bread wheat with different nitrogen responding under irrigation condition at two experimental sites in the South West Shewa, Ethiopia. A year field experiment was conducted to explore the effects of five N application rates (N0, N23, N46, N69, and N92) and three seed rates on bread wheat yield components like; - aboveground biomass, harvest index, number of tillers per plant, spike length, number of kernels per plant, grain yield and net return. The results showed that N application rate and seed rate were significantly interaction (P< 0.05) effect on aboveground biomass, harvest index, number of tillers per plant, spike length, number of kernels per plant and grain yield. Generally, spike length, number of tillers per plant and number of kernels per spike of wheat were increased with increased at some level in nitrogen fertilizer rate for the three seed rate at both locations. Highest number of kernels per spike (42.00, 44.00) and the highest mean above ground biomass yield (13.70 t ha-1, 7.5 t ha-1) were obtained for 150 kg ha -1 seed rate with 69 N kg ha-1 application at Ameya and Woliso sites respectively. The highest net benefit of 171531.88 EB ha-1 with marginal rate of return of 351.14% was obtained from 175 kg ha-1 seed rate with application of 69 kg N ha-1. Therefore, 175 kg ha-1 seed rate with application of 69 kg N ha-1 is economical feasible for bread wheat production at Ameya area and also the highest net benefit of 51675 EB ha-1 with marginal rate of return of 115.22% was obtained from 150 kg ha -1 seed rate with application of 69 kg N ha-1 at Woliso area.
Interrogating the Influence of Babaláwo-Ifá Priest’s Lifestyle on Ọmọ Awo-Neophytes as Found in Ìrẹ́tẹ̀-Ọ̀kànràn in Ifá Divination and the Lessons for the Contemporary Society
Authors: O̩lálẹ́yẹ Samuel
Published: August 2024

Leadership, the ability to lead by good example, is universal and it cuts across every aspect of human life, be it political, social, economic and religious. Leadership quality must be displayed by the people at the top so that their followers/disciples will not be led astray. However, not all leaders are leading by good examples, the effects of which are felt by the led at the receiving end and the society at large because the disciples or the followers tend to emulate some of the characters of their leaders. Therefore, it is imperative for a leader to demonstrate quality examples for the followers to imitate as demonstrated by Ọ̀rúnmìlà in Ìrẹ́tẹ̀-Ọ̀kànràn and other similar tenets of Ifá divination system. This is found in the lifestyle of the Babaláwo-Ifá priests that followed the teachings/lifestyle of Ọ̀rúnmìlà, the custodian of Ifá and by extension their neophytes, particularly, in the aspect of greed. Greed is evidently displayed in leadership especially in contemporary third world nations. Conversely, how has the lifestyle of Babaláwo been able to curtail this among their followers and of what benefits to the contemporary generation? The study proffered answers to the questions from the data generated from fifteen Babaláwo-Ifá priests and twenty Ọmọ Awo-trainees/ neophytes and their views content analysed. The study was able to discover that Ifá priesthood is a service to humanity (not a money-making venture) and discipline against greed is their watchword for them to achieve this. If the contemporary generation could imbibe this culture, it is going to be the best antidote against many social vices particularly the get-rich quick syndrome that is rampant among the youths nowadays that is responsible for their early death.
The Information Cocoons in Military Decision Making and Strategies for Coping
Authors: Li Shifei , Tu Linjun , Liu Yang
Published: August 2024

As we all know, the information cocoon has a broad impact on people's basic cognitive abilities such as memory, decision-making, and judgment. This article first extends the concept of information cocoons to the field of command and decision-making behavior, and studies the harm and response measures of information cocoons to command and decision-making. The paper first elaborates on the causes of information cocoons, including technical factors, organizational structure factors, and psychological factors. Secondly, the harm of information cocoons to command decision-making was analyzed, including hindering accurate judgment of the battlefield situation, increasing battlefield risks, and increasing the likelihood of battlefield losses.Then, corresponding measures were proposed, including the application of technical means and optimization of organizational structure and decision-making processes. Finally, the importance of improving psychological resilience and leadership abilities was emphasized. The research conclusion of this article is helpful for command decision-makers to effectively overcome the challenges brought by the information cocoon to command decision-making and improve the correctness of decision-making.
The Impact of Quality Public Service Delivery on Customer Satisfaction: In Case of Nekemte Town Police Administration, Nekemte, Oromia, Ethiopia
Authors: Assefa Bulcha , Etana Habtamu , Deressa Mosisa
Published: August 2024

This research involved 397 participants selected through stratified and simple random sampling methods. The objective was to assess the influence of service quality delivery on customer satisfaction within Nekemte Town Police Administration, utilizing the SERVQUAL model. To fulfill this goal, a quantitative research study incorporating both descriptive and causal (inferential) research designs was conducted. Questionnaires with a five-point Likert scale were employed, drawing from the annual target population of 51,480 Nekemte Town Police Administration customers. Data was gathered through personally administered questionnaires, and subsequent analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27, employing descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings indicated minimal customer satisfaction, making it challenging to precisely determine customers' expectations and perceptions regarding service quality dimensions. Notably, all service quality dimensions positively influenced satisfaction levels. Specifically, responsiveness, assurance, and empathy emerged as significant contributors to customer satisfaction, while reliability and tangibility had a comparatively lesser impact. In light of these results, the researcher recommends that the Nekemte Town Police Administration implement training, corrective measures to enhance responsiveness, motivational initiatives, and the utilization of fault-free technologies to improve overall customer satisfaction.
Acceptance Level and Associated Factors of Immediate Post-Partum Intrauterine Contraceptive Device Among Women Delivered in Hospitals of North Shoa Zone, Ethiopia
Authors: Abasimel Husen , Oyato Befekadu , Lama Tasfaye , Gesisa Hana
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Regardless of the fact that it is highly effective, inexpensive, non-hormonal, and immediately reversible; in developing countries, including Ethiopia, the acceptance rate of postpartum intrauterine contraceptive devices was not well known. Hence, the goal of the study is to determine acceptance level and associated factors among women delivered in public hospitals of North shoa zone. Method: A Hospital based cross-sectional study was utilized. A pre-tested questionnaire was used to collect data. The collected data were entered into Epidata version 4.6.0.2 and then exported to SPSS version 26 for analysis. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify the independent effect of predictors on outcome variables. Those variables with a P-value of ≤ 0.25 during bivariable logistic regression analysis were the candidate for multivariable analysis. Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) at 95% CI was used to assure statistical significance association between acceptance level of immediate post- partum IUCD and associated factors with p-value ≤ 0.05. Finally, findings of study were presented using narration, table, Chart and graph. Results: This study had included 534 delivered women to assess the acceptance level of immediate PPIUCD and its associated factors. Women's occupation (government employee) (AOR=3.23, 95% CI: (1.23-5.95)), Favorable attitude ((AOR = 10.93, 95% CI: (4.93-23.89)) and Knowledge toward IUCD (AOR=2.56, 95% CI: (1.70-8.26)) were factors identified to be associated with the acceptance level of immediate PPIUCD. Conclusion and recommendations: The acceptance level of immediate postpartum intrauterine contraceptive device was low. Maternal occupation, maternal knowledge about IUCD and attitude are associated with the acceptance level. Health education, a change in women's attitudes, and frequent training for healthcare workers are very important.
Emotions and the Social Bond in Situations of Poverty
Authors: Zenarolla Anna
Published: August 2024

Although the relationship between emotions and poverty has been recognized by social scientists, it received little attention as a lens through which to observe, interpret, and deal with this issue. To fill this gap, we conducted a qualitative, exploratory, and preliminary analysis of the content of forty interviews with parents living in economic poverty as part of the Research Project of National Interest (PRIN) "Constructions of Parenthood on Uncertain Ground. What Role for Social Work" sought to investigate whether and how the emotional dimension intervenes in poverty, as well as the role it may play in the processes of entering or departing this reality. It was revealed that impoverished individuals experience a wide spectrum of emotions, which contribute to a more complete and multifaceted picture of people in poverty, with more positive features than negative ones. Moreover, the study revealed that poor people experienced a wide range of happy emotions that are not typically associated with poverty. This article focuses on three of these positive feelings - gratitude, solidarity, and pride - and discusses how they grow in the interaction between individuals who live in poverty and those who do not, as well as how they contribute to the strengthening of social cohesion and bonds. This thought appears to be valuable in terms of the positive implications it may have for knowledge and the development of policies targeted at combating poverty. In fact, the analysis confirms that the sociology of emotions is a viable approach to understanding the conditions of individuals living in poverty and opening up new avenues for future research. Furthermore, it helps to overcome preconceptions and stereotypes that still surround poor people, as well as the ideological assumptions about poverty that underpin many contemporary European poverty policies, putting social cohesiveness at danger.
Airborne Observations of Highly Variable and Complex Freezing Drizzle and Mixed-Phase Environments
Authors: Faber Spencer , Bernstein Ben , Landolt Scott , Jacobson Darcy , DiVito Stephanie , Wolde Mengistu , Korolev Alexei , Heckman Ivan , Nichman Leonid , Nguyen Cuong
Published: August 2024

Airframe icing caused by interactions with supercooled cloud droplets and precipitation can pose a risk to aviation operations and life safety. The In-Cloud Icing and Large-drop Experiment (ICICLE) was conducted in January–March 2019 to capture measurements in freezing conditions in support of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Terminal Area Icing Weather Information for NextGen (TAIWIN) program. The National Research Council of Canada’s Convair-580 research aircraft fulfilled the airborne data collection requirements for the ICICLE campaign and sampled icing clouds and atmospheric conditions over the midwestern United States. ICICLE flight 18, conducted on 17 February 2019, collected cloud and precipitation measurements during a widespread storm that generated supercooled small drops and freezing drizzle (FZDZ) within both liquid and mixed-phase regions. Supercooled liquid water content (LWC) typically ranged 0.30–0.45 g m−3 and exceeded 0.70 g m−3 in one instance. Maximum FZDZ diameters of 300–400 μm were commonly sampled near the base of clouds. Missed approaches performed at four Illinois airfields provided measurements of conditions from near ground level to above cloud top and supplied information regarding FZDZ formation and evolution. FZDZ was found to form at altitudes featuring relatively high LWC and sufficiently low droplet number concentrations. FZDZ formation zones were sometimes collocated with regions of atmospheric instability and/or wind shear. Flight through highly variable supercooled cloud droplet and FZDZ conditions resulted in significant Convair-580 airframe icing, highlighting the risk that icing conditions can pose to aircraft safety.