bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Study on Comparative Analysis of Different Concrete Curing Methods with a Focus on Compressive Strength
Authors: Azad Imtiaz Ibne , Ahmed Mostakim , Islam Barno M. M. Fahad
Published: October 2024

For the sake of our planet's health, it is imperative that water resources are managed sustainably, and the building sector must contribute to reducing its water footprint. As this research indicates, this calls for a change toward wise water use and implementing different concrete curing methods. 36 concrete cylinders were prepared with a 1:2:3 mix ratio and divided into 4 groups of 9 cylinders. 4 groups of cylinders were cured using four different curing strategies for 7 days, 14 days, and 28 days. A compressive strength test was performed on these cylinders, and the results showed that curing by water pond attained the maximum compressive strength in the specimens, followed by curing by using a water-based curing compound, curing with waterproof plastic paper, and curing by water sprinkling. The test also revealed that the compressive strength of the specimens under any curing strategy increased with its curing period in the day.
Securing IoT Networks: Challenges and Solutions for Next-Generation Smart Devices
Authors: Rahman Md. Aminur , Laskar AKM Nuruzzaman
Published: October 2024

The rapid growth of the Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized connectivity and brought significant security challenges. IoT devices often have limited computational power and energy, making them vulnerable to cyber threats. This research addresses the need for tailored security solutions for next-generation IoT networks, focusing on challenges such as device authentication, data privacy, and network integrity in decentralized environments. The study explores solutions like lightweight cryptography for secure communication, machine learning-based anomaly detection for real-time threat mitigation, and blockchain for decentralized security management. A multi-layered approach is recommended, combining various strategies to ensure robust protection across the IoT lifecycle. Additionally, the research highlights the importance of industry collaboration and standardized protocols to improve security across different platforms. It emphasizes the role of regulatory frameworks in establishing stringent security standards, advocating for a collaborative approach to secure IoT networks. This study contributes valuable insights into addressing IoT security challenges and offers practical solutions for a more resilient digital future.
Development and Status of Tool Coating
Authors: Riresh Kumar Hui  , Chitta Ranjan Bhuyan  , Manas Parichha  , Utkal Keshari Roul
Published: October 2024

With the development of modern machining technology, the use of cutting fluid is removed in theprocess of cutting workpiece, and it is gradually developing towards the direction of green, so that thecutting becomes more satisfied with the machining accuracy of the workpiece and improves themachining efficiency of the workpiece. Although the dry cutting without cutting fluid has been adoptedbythe majority of machine tools, there are many shortcomings that need to be improved. For example, drycutting will aggravate the friction between the tool and the workpiece surface, reduce the tool life andincrease the cutting cost. Therefore, the development of tool coating has become the mainstreamdirection of today's society. By designing experiments, changing the process and coating on thecuttingtools, we can compare domestic coated tools, uncoated tools and experimental preparation of coatings totest which cu tting tools are more suitable for today's harsh cutting conditions. This paper mainlyintroduces the development of coatings in recent years from two aspects of hard coating and superhardcoating.
Acoustic Materials in Automobiles
Authors: Abhaya Kumar Baliarsingh  , Jyoti Ranjan Paikaray
Published: October 2024

Automobile comfort and design has had an important impact on the world wide economy during the past century and millions of additional vehicles have been sold because of it. Much research work is being done on automobile interior design in comparison to other industrial designs. However, sound level inside the cabins affects the journey of millions of passengers to a great degree and comfort than many other subjects. Low noise level in the cabins is a comfort parameter of high importance. Therefore an attempt has been made in this paper to review the different acoustic materials being used in various automobiles and also their properties which have impact on noise reduction
Bioinspired Engineering: Unlocking Innovative Solutions in Robotics Energy and Materials
Authors: Ebinesh V.
Published: October 2024

Biological principles, which were once only found in science, are now being used more and more in engineering to create creative solutions for a range of global problems. In order to create sophisticated systems that replicate the strategies that nature has developed, engineers and researchers are still committed to exploring new avenues in bioinspired engineering strategies, such as biomimetics and synthetic biology. This approach aims to achieve greater functionality, sustainability, and efficiency. Over the years, a wide range of practical engineering applications have made use of biological notions. One of the most significant ways that bioengineering can impact the development and use of engineering solutions is in the areas of robotics, energy-efficient systems, and novel materials. Indeed, there has been a significant advancement in software modeling for biomaterials and even for bioinspired system design.
A GEOGRAPHICAL PERSPECTIVE ON THE PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE OF THE ANTHROPOCENE
Authors:   University of Cape Town, Department of Environmental and Geographical Science, Cape Town, South Africa, Meadows Michael E.
Published: October 2024

The Anthropocene has been much in the news recently as geologists have taken the decision not to formally declare it as a new geological epoch. So, where does this leave us? Is the Anthropocene real? Here, I use examples from China and elsewhere to reflect on the nature and scale of human impact on the global environment and consider the extent to which these have left a universal footprint. This footprint expresses itself in many ways, but I focus here on climate and geomorphology as indicators of the nature and scale of human impact on the Earth system. Moreover, the recent past—and immediate future—is characterized by changes in the frequency and magnitude of hazards that amplify our exposure to environmental risk and increasingly threaten lives and livelihoods. I argue that, irrespective of any scientifically authorized view, the Anthropocene is here, and it is here to stay. Given the ongoing scale of human impact on the Earth’s environment, the term is a valuable symbol of the need for action to save our precious life-support system. Geographers have embraced the concept (even if the Geologists have not) and need to play an important role in addressing the challenges the Anthropocene presents.
ARCTIC: RECENT ADVANCES AND FUTURE OUTLOOK FOR RUSSIAN GEOGRAPHERS
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Geography, Laboratory of Geoecology of the Northern Territories, Moscow, Russia, Maslakov Alexey , Ogorodov Stanislav ,   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Geography, Laboratory of Geoecology of the Northern Territories, Moscow, Russia, Badina Svetlana ,   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Geography, Laboratory of Geoecology of the Northern Territories, Moscow, Russia
Published: October 2024

The Arctic region is one of the least developed regions of the planet. With an area of 8.7% of the Earth’s surface, only 0.07% of the world’s population lives here. A significant territory of the Arctic is located within the Russian Federation. The importance of this region is determined by two main reasons. Firstly, the Arctic zone of the Russian Federation has huge reserves of natural resources: about 90% of gas and 17% of oil in Russia is produced in the Arctic. In addition, the region has large deposits of diamonds, gold, and other non-ferrous metals. Secondly, the coastal waters of the Arctic are a strategic transport corridor—the Northern Sea Route, which reduces the time of transporting goods from Europe to Asia by almost two times. At the same time, northern ecosystems are characterized by high vulnerability to changes in external conditions and anthropogenic impact. The increase in air temperature recorded in recent decades is three times higher in the Arctic than the global average. Climate warming leads to a radical transformation of the natural environment, primarily warming and thawing of permafrost, activation of exogenous processes, changes in the terrestrial hydrological regime, and the invasion of southern species of flora and fauna northward. The observed changes affect not only ecosystems, but also the life quality of the population. In this regard, Russian geographers conduct broad studies to assess the current and predicted rates of transformation of natural environment, as well as to find solutions and approaches to mitigate negative environmental and economic consequences to the Arctic territories. Recent studies have been organized for calculation of economic damage to populated areas from thawing permafrost, quantitative assessments of the current dynamics of the Arctic coastal zone. Besides, extensive oceanographic and geophysical measurements have been carried out in the waters of the Arctic seas and the Russian sector of the Arctic Ocean. The socio-economic model for the development of Arctic territories has been developed and proposed for governmental implementation. Russian ethnographers have done a lot of work to inventory the intangible heritage of the indigenous peoples of the North. The ongoing research in the Arctic demonstrates the state’s great interest in these territories, not only from the point of view of economic benefits, but also in the context of the sustainable development of these remote, isolated, and sparsely populated territories.
Vtip v kontextu funkcí
Authors: Josl Jan
Published: October 2024

In the context of the current discussion about the ethical boundaries of humor, the study attempts to show that an approach based on Mukařovský’s functional theory is not only applicable to the discussion but also competitive. In the first part of the article, the author tries to answer the question of inserting a joke into the field of functions. He understands a joke as a sign that has in its most typical version a dominant f ictive-communicative function. It is precisely in the dominance of the fictive-communicative function of the joke that he sees the reason for the borderline position of the joke between art and life. The fictiveness of jokes creates, on the one hand, the impression that they have as fictitious statements greater independence from nonaesthetic norms, similar to what works of art have. On the other hand, because of the communicative moment jokes have more potential to offend us than do artifacts with a dominant aesthetic function. The second part of the study is dedicated to the relationship between the joke and the listener and attempts to describe other forms in which the semantic energy of the joke can reveal itself.
Etika pohlavních vášní v díle Fridricha II. Velikého
Authors: Koumar Jan
Published: October 2024

T he writings of Frederick the Great, in addition to historical and military works, also contain philosophical works, poetry and letters. This article deals with the ethics of sexual passions to the extent they can be found in these philosophical and poetic works. First, the philosophical discussion on the ethics of sexual passions in Freder ick’s time is briefly described, after which the methodological principles of Avi Lif schitz are used to examine Frederick’s philosophical texts “A Moral Dialogue for the Use of the Young Nobility”, “Letter on Education and Essay on Self Love Considered as a Principle of Morality”. Three of Frederick’s “Epistles” in verse and his play “The Tem ple of Love”, in which sexual passions are analyzed in more depth, are also explored. Frederick’s ethics of sexual passions are based on self-love (amour-propre), which pro tects the desirer from the seduction of a married woman, the lying of a single woman and the danger of a disease that can be caught from a prostitute. Marriage is deter mined to be the only space for satisfying sexual desires. However, the poetic work contains more: in it, Frederick notices the characteristics of passions that do not have to lead to marriage. It is above all about the different view of desires before and after gratification from the perspective of the desirer and other people.
An effective technique of exp(-ϕ(ξ))- expansion method for the Schamel-Burgers equation
Authors: ALI KHALID K. , KARAKOC SEYDI BATTAL GAZI
Published: October 2024

The Schamel-Burgers equation, producing the shock-type traveling waves in magnificent physical cases, has lots of potential for analyzing ion-acoustic waves in plasma physics and fluid dynamics. Scientists have worked for a long time to explore the traveling wave solutions of such equations. Thus, in this article, some new traveling wave solutions of the Schamel-Burgers equation, different from those found in the literature, are generated. For this aim, the exp(-ϕ(ξ))- expansion method is implemented. We also provide the solutions through two- and three-dimensional figures. Generally, exact traveling wave solutions will be useful in the theoretical and numerical study of the nonlinear evolution
equations. The obtained results are very supportive, which ensures a more effective mathematical instrument for examining exact traveling wave solutions of the nonlinear equations arising in the recent area of applied sciences and engineering
HASIMOTO SURFACES WITH POINTWISE 1-TYPE GAUSS MAP
Authors: EREN KEMAL , ERSOY SOLEY
Published: October 2024

In this study, we have investigated Hasimoto surfaces with a pointwise 1-type Gauss map, which will be useful in classifying surfaces. Firstly, we have reminded the basic concepts related to the Gauss map of a surface. Later, we have obtained the necessary conditions for surfaces to be the first kind, the second kind, and the harmonic type of the pointwise 1-type Gauss map for Hasimoto surfaces. Finally, we have provided an example of a Hasimoto surface with pointwise 1-type Gauss map and plotted its graphic.
BINARY πg-LOCALLY CLOSED SETS
Authors: VINOTH MUTHU , ASOKAN RAGHAVAN , THIRIPURAM ANNAMALAI
Published: October 2024

This paper aims to introduce some new locally closed sets called binary πg-locally closed sets, bπglc^⋆-set, bπglc^(⋆⋆)-set and the relations between them are studied in a binary topological space. The concepts of bπg-submaximal space and their related properties have been introduced. Also a characterization of a bπg-submaximal space is found, and suitable examples are given.
THERMODYNAMIC ANALYSIS OF SOLAR THERMAL HEAT INPUT IN HVACR CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEMS
Authors: LET ANDREEA-MIHAELA , FILIP VIVIANA , BUCURICA IOAN-ALIN , MIHAI SIMONA , LET DORIN-DACIAN
Published: October 2024

This paper analyzes the thermodynamic performance of solar thermal heat input in HVACR (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration) systems for large office and laboratory buildings. As energy demands rise, solar-assisted HVACR systems provide a sustainable solution to enhance energy efficiency. The study focuses on a configuration with two 500 L puffer tanks connected to a 3000 L Thermal Energy Storage System (TESS), utilizing direct integration during the cold season and indirect integration via an adsorption chiller in the hot season. Dynamic simulations assess key performance indicators, including solar fraction and overall system efficiency, under varying solar radiation and building load profiles. Results highlight the potential for significant energy savings and improved climate control in large-scale buildings, emphasizing the critical role of thermal energy storage in optimizing system performance throughout the year. The research conducted on the experimental platform at Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Science and Technology (ICSTM) has identified the regimes and scenarios in which this approach can be considered both economically and technically viable.
ÖMER SEYFETTİN’İN NAKARAT VE ALEKO ÖYKÜLERİNDE MİLLİ BİLİNÇ
Authors: Ozar Betül
Published: October 2024

Ömer Seyfettin Osmanlı Devleti’nin dağılma dönemine tanıklık etmiş, Balkan topraklarında askerlik yapmış, Balkan Savaşları’na katılmış bir yazar olarak deneyim ve izlenim sahibi olduğu tarihi olayların Türk halkına aktarılması ve Türk milli uyanışına katkı sağlanması adına çaba sarf etmiştir. Balkanlarda hızla yayılan milliyetçilik hareketlerinin doruğa çıktığı dönemde, Türk milliyetçilik hareketinin geç kaldığını düşünmesinin etkisiyle hikayelerinde Balkanlarda yaşanan siyasi ve etnik çatışmalara, çetecilik faaliyetlerinin Türk halkında oluşturduğu hasara, savaşın etkisiyle göçe zorlanan Türklerin yaşadıklarına, milliyetçilik, milli kimlik, milli bilinç gibi unsurlara yer vererek Türk milliyetçiliğinin ve Milli Edebiyat anlayışının önemli bir ismi olmuştur. Türk hikayeciliğinin önde gelen temsilcilerinden olan Ömer Seyfettin'in eserleri, Türk edebiyatında Balkanlar'ın önemli bir yansıması olarak kabul edilmektedir. Çalışmada Ömer Seyfettin’in Balkanlarda ortaya çıkan çetecilik faaliyetlerinin artış gösterdiği dönemde görev yapan bir Türk subayının günlüğü biçiminde kurgulanmış Nakarat öyküsü ile Birinci Dünya Savaşı sırasında Gelibolu ve Çanakkale’de bulunan bir Türk çocuğunun kahramanlığını konu alan Aleko öyküsünde milli bilinç unsurlarının incelenmesi ve karşılaştırılması amaçlanmıştır. Nakarat öyküsünün Balkanlardaki çetecilik faaliyetlerinin yükseldiği dönemin bir kurgusu olması, Aleko öyküsünün ise Birinci Dünya Savaşı döneminden bir kesit sunması, dönemin tarihi gerçekliklerini milli bilinç unsurları üzerinden okuyuculara aktarmaktadır.
METHODICAL APPROACH TO THE FORMATION OF THE IDEA OF THE RECONNAISSANCE AND STRIKE COMPLEX BASED ON THE RESULTS OF THE ANALYSIS OF THE TREND OF ARMED STRUGGLE
Authors: Ishchenko D. , Strinada V. , Levchenko O.
Published: October 2024

The experience of conducting hostilities during the large-scale aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine confirms the interdependence of the processes of development of means (samples, complexes, systems) of destruction and means of combating them. There is a steady increase in the combat effectiveness and importance of reconnaissance and strike (reconnaissance and fire) complexes, which include unmanned aerial systems, as well as electronic warfare techniques, the use of which reduces their effectiveness.
The article analyzes the features of the modern armed struggle regarding the use of reconnaissance and strike (fire) unmanned aerial systems and their effectiveness in the conditions of electronic warfare. With this in mind, the authors proposed a methodical approach to the procedure for preparing initial data for the formation of variants of the generalized composition of the reconnaissance and strike unmanned aerial system, which is a set of interference-resistant unmanned vehicles.
We propose to create a reconnaissance and strike unmanned aerial vehicle system on the basis of units of attack unmanned aerial vehicles as an organizational and technical association of samples of unmanned aerial vehicles for reconnaissance, targeting, guidance and destruction, which allow to comprehensively solve the problems of detection, identification and operational destruction of targets. For independent performance of tasks, we consider it as a set of functionally related models of weapons and military equipment: unmanned aerial vehicles, control and adjustment stations, launch and landing facilities, as well as software and hardware for managing combat use.
The application of the developed procedure makes it possible to obtain reference options and form the technical outline of the reconnaissance and strike unmanned aerial system, as a qualitatively new model of weapons and military equipment.
RELIGIOUS ASPECT OF QUALITY OF LIFE IN SERBIAN PRISONS: PRELIMINARY RESEARCH RESULTS
Authors: Milićević Milena , Gojković Teodora
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Religious engagement has been shown to promote positive outcomes for inmates, such as reduced drug use, increased prosocial behaviour, and improved mental well-being while aiding their adjustment to prison life. However, research exploring the relationship between religious practice and inmates' perceived quality of prison life, especially within the Serbian prison system, remains limited. Objective: The research aimed to examine the differences in the perception of the quality of prison life in relation to the possibility of practising one's religion in prison, focusing on the quality of prison life cumulatively, but also through individual dimensions – Harmony, Professionalism, Security, Conditions and Family Contact and Well-being and Development. Methods: This study collected data from a convenient sample of 632 inmates across five Serbian prisons using a Serbian-adapted MQPL (Measuring the Quality of Prison Life) survey. Participants were asked about their religion and the possibility of practising their religious customs in prison. Descriptive statistics and ANOVA were used for data analysis. Results: Inmates who had the opportunity to practice their religious customs reported significantly higher quality of prison life across all dimensions than those who did not. Specifically, these inmates perceived greater harmony, professionalism, safety, better living conditions, and family contact, as well as higher overall well-being and personal development. Conclusion: While preliminary findings indicate a potential for religious practices to be a valuable component of rehabilitation, further research is necessary to fully understand how these practices contribute to positive outcomes such as improved adaptation to prison life, personal development, and more. This knowledge can inform the development of more effective rehabilitation programs.
The Role of Plastic Surgery in Management of Migraine Headaches: A Literature Review
Authors:   Faculty of Medicine, University of Jenderal Soedirman, Indonesia, Alhafizatun Khaefiyah , Norinkha Eksava Khalda Putri ,   Faculty of Medicine, University of Jenderal Soedirman, Indonesia, Akbari Nazal Karim ,   Faculty of Medicine, University of Jenderal Soedirman, Indonesia, Fawzy Ahmad ,   Department of Surgery, Margono Soekarjo County Hospital - Faculty of Medicine, University of Jenderal Soedirman, Indonesia
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Migraine headache is a neurovascular disorder characterized by primary chronic headache pain, with attacks lasting between 4 to 72 hours. Plastic surgery interventions such as targeted nerve decompression and Botox injections can provide better results. Methods: We created this literature review by compiling and analysing data and information from publicly accessible scientific journals available on the web. Results and Discussions: Many studies show that surgical treatment for chronic migraines can produce substantial results. However, such surgery is only effective for those who have not benefited from other treatments. Botox injections can block NO and CGRP activation in the central nervous system, whereas nerve decompression can lessen the activity of pain-signaling nerves associated with chronic migraine headaches. Overall, 68.3% to 93.3% of patients reported satisfactory results. Complete elimination of migraine headaches was achieved in 28.3% to 59% of cases, while significant improvement was observed in 26.5% to 60% of patients. Conclusion: Botulinum injections for migraine headache treatment are more effective when combined with nerve decompression procedures. Giving preoperative Botox injections can reduce NO activation in the CNS, thereby limiting the activity of decompressed nerves and alleviating migraine headache symptoms.
Planos de saúde e a demanda feminina por saúde preventiva no Brasil
Authors:   , Soares Clarice Antonia
Published: October 2024

A saúde preventiva é essencial para a sustentabilidade do sistema de saúde e para a qualidade de vida da população. Ela promove hábitos saudáveis, previne e detecta doenças precocemente, reduzindo a necessidade de tratamentos mais caros. No entanto, desafios como a organização das agendas, os longos tempos de espera e os determinantes sociais da saúde persistem. Para as mulheres, há desafios adicionais como desigualdade de gênero e raça, falta de informação, violência, saúde mental e padrões culturais. A literatura, em especial a internacional, aponta que a cobertura de um plano de saúde pode reduzir barreiras financeiras, logísticas e de conscientização, facilitando o acesso à saúde preventiva. Desse modo, esse estudo investiga o efeito da posse de plano de saúde sobre a demanda feminina por serviços de saúde preventivos no Brasil, usando dados da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde (PNS) de 2019. A análise considera variáveis demográficas, socioeconômicas e o número de estabelecimentos de saúde por estado, construindo modelos de Regressão Logística e de Regressão Logística Multinível. Os resultados mostraram que a posse de plano de saúde aumenta em 53,3% a probabilidade de mulheres demandarem serviços de saúde preventiva primária e em 42% a probabilidade de elas demandarem serviços de saúde preventiva secundária. E, mulheres do Sudeste têm a maior demanda por esses serviços, seguidas pelas sulistas, devido à melhor infraestrutura de saúde e ao maior acesso a planos de saúde. Diante disso, o estudo destaca a importância de campanhas públicas de conscientização sobre saúde preventiva e a necessidade de equalizar a oferta de serviços de saúde pública entre as regiões, reforçando o papel da Estratégia Saúde da Família, principal recurso de atenção à saúde primária no Brasil, na melhoria da qualidade e da equidade no acesso à saúde preventiva. Palavras-chave: Serviços de saúde preventivos. Demanda Feminina. Planos de Saúde. Brasil.
PHYTOCHEMICALS ANALYSIS AND TOXICITY STUDIES OF ETHANOL LEAVES EXTRACT OF AZADIRACHTA INDICA, ANACARDIUM OCCIDENTALE, AND MORINGA OLEIFERA IN RATS
Authors: Ezimaduakolam Grace Ogu , Mgbemena Ifeyinwa Celestina , Nsofor Chijioke Adulberth
Published: October 2024

Medicinal plants have importance medicinal properties and pharmacological activities. Medicinal value and pharmacological activities of plants are attributed to their bioactive constituents. The efficacy of medicinal plants could not only be considered but also their safety for consumption. The phytochemicals analyses were performed using standard methods. Toxicity tests were conducted using Lorke’s method. The ethanol leaves extract of Azadirachta indica, Anacardium occidentale, and Moringa oleifera contain several phytochemicals. The LD50 value of ethanol leaves extract of Azadirachta indica, Anacardium occidentale, and Moringa oleifera was 3807.89 mg/kg, 4505.55 mg/kg, and above 5000 mg/kg, respectively. The ethanol leaves extract of Anacardium occidentale and Azadirachta indica demonstrated an increase in the levels of ALT, AST, total bilirubin, and globulin, while the Moringa oleifera exhibited a decrease in the levels of ALT, AST, and total bilirubin coupled with increase in total protein and albumin levels. The administration of ethanol leaves extract of Anacardium occidentale and Azadirachta indica increased the levels of urea, creatinine, sodium, potassium, calcium, chlorides, and HCO3- while decreased by the administration of the ethanol leaves extract of Moringa oleifera in rats. The ethanol leaves extract of Azadirachta indica and Anacardium occidentale demonstrated significant decrease in RBC count and PCV while Moringa oleifera exhibited significant increase in RBC count and PCV. Hemoglobin content was significantly decrease by the ethanol leaves extract of Azadirachta indica. The presence of these bioactive metabolites implies that the plants have medicinal properties. The ethanol leaves extract of Moringa oleifera at 5000 mg/kg dose is relatively non-toxic and safe for gavage administration while ethanol leaves extract of Azadirachta indica and Anacardium occidentale are slightly toxic for oral administration.
Predictors of Social Studies Learning Style Preferences among Public Junior High School Pupils in East Mamprusi Municipality, Ghana
Authors: Meshanu Hamisu Kasimu
Published: October 2024

The study sought to establish the extent to which Home-related factors, School-related factors and Personal factors predict learning style preferences among public Junior High School pupils in studying Social Studies in East Mamprusi Municipality in the North East Region of Ghana. The Grasha and Riechmann’s (1982) learning styles theory guided the study. Cross-sectional descriptive survey design within the positivists’ quantitative methodology was used for the study. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 230 participants selected through proportionate stratified random sampling technique for the study.With the aid of SPSS, Multiple Linear Regression Analytical test was used to analyse the data. The findings revealed that, school-related factors (β=0.320, t=4.944, p<0.05), home-related factors (β=0.254, t=4.020, p<0.05) and personal factors (β=0.259, t=3.537, p<0.05) individually and statistically significantly influenced learning style preferences among the pupils in studying Social Studies. Based on the findings, it was recommended that the East Mamprusi Municipal Education Directorate adopts a comprehensive strategy to focus on all the factors that influence the choice of learning styles to enhance the effective study of Social Studies in the schools.
The Influence of Ineffective Governance on the Motorcycle Sector in the Transport Industry in Kenya
Authors: Nyachieo Gladys
Published: October 2024

The history of paratransit public transport in Kenya can be traced back to the illegal trans-border trade between Kenya and Uganda at Busia town in the early 1960s. From the mid-2000s there has been unprecedented rapid growth of motorcycles as a form of public transport in Kenya. However, the motorcycle sector has remained loosely governed despite its continued prolific growth and numerous benefits to the population. Therefore, this study sought to examine the influence of poor governance on the motorcycle sector in the transport industry in Kenya. The study was guided by four specific objectives: To establish the influence of unfair policies on motorcycle sector in the transport industry in Kenya; to determine the influence of poor economic growth on motorcycle sector in the transport industry in Kenya; to assess the influence of equity and inclusiveness on motorcycle sector in the transport industry in Kenya; and to establish the influence of efficiency and effectiveness on motorcycle sector in the transport industry in Kenya. The research design adopted for the study was a qualitative meta-analysis of the literature on the governance of the transport sector in Kenya retrieved from online databases. The researcher, guided by the four study objectives, did a systematic synthesis of over thirty (30) existing literature on transport and mobility in SSA (see references) by searching and retrieving relevant literature from Kenya and other countries from major electronic databases including Google Scholar, JSTOR, ProQuest, PubMed, ISI Web of Knowledge, Science Direct, and EBSCO, among others. In addition, unpublished materials in Kenya and other SSA countries were also used, as well as journals in transport history, sociology, geography and other related disciplines.
Climate Change Interventions and Sustainable Economic Development in Nigeria, A Case for Ingenious Approach
Authors: Ogbuene Anthony Chinweike , Mbaeze Christian Netchy
Published: October 2024

Climate change has continued to pose a huge threat to humanity as both lives and livelihoods are subjected to its effects globally. Consequently, the United Nations have rallied state actors annually since 1994 to seek ways of mitigating the adverse effects of climate change. A major outcome of these meetings is the Paris Agreement of 2015. Part of the provisions of this agreement is the commitment by the industrialized countries to provide USD100 billion annual intervention to the developing countries, to facilitate the achievement of their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) targets. The extent to which Nigeria has accessed these interventions from the industrialized countries and the development partners towards achieving these NDC targets is the focus of this study. The study therefore was guided by this research question: how have the climate change interventions from donor agencies and development partners impacted Nigeria’s sustainable economic development? Descriptive Research design was adopted for the study. The documentary method of data collection and content analytical method were used to generate and analyze data for this study. The study found that interventions accessed by the Nigerian state came predominantly as foreign loans. These loans imposed heavy debt burdens on the country’s economy. The study recommends that Nigeria should be inventive and inward looking in her quest for sustainable development.
Potentially Overlooked Spinal Conditions: A Baker’s Dozen from A Neurosurgeon’s Perspective
Authors: G Khurana Vini
Published: October 2024

During 20 years of operative neurosurgery (including spinal reconstruction) and 15 years of medicolegal consulting experience in brain and spine matters, the author has observed that there are 13 (i.e., a baker’s dozen) spine-related conditions (Table 1) that have not infrequently been overlooked by specialists in clinical and medicolegal contexts. As such, awareness of these conditions (or lack thereof) particularly affects aspects of spinal diagnosis, aetiology, and prognostication. For brevity and clarity, the clinicoradiological hallmarks of each condition and its spinal implications, along with key literature references, are presented (listed in alphabetical order in Table 1), in conjunction with their classic imaging (Figures 1-3). The author believes that keeping these conditions at the back of one’s mind when medically working up or medicolegally assessing individuals presenting with spinal symptoms and signs can aid in diagnostic and prognostic accuracy, and in an opinion of causation
Isolated Terminal Ileitis- Crohn’s Disease or Something Else?
Authors: Chela H  , Mir F  , AC Tahan , Schmidt B  , Ertugrul H  , Dahip M  , Albarrak A  , Yousef M  , Shaffi K  , Daglilar E  , Tahan V
Published: October 2024

Isolated terminal ileitis (ITI) is commonly found associated with Crohn’s disease but it has other etiologies too. Other common causes of ITI include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use, tuberculosis and other bacterial/parasitic infections, neoplasia, radiation or other autoimmune disorders.
Influence of Innovation Strategies on the Performance of Insurance Firms in Kenya
Authors: Mugendi Kyalo Stanley , Kihara Allan
Published: October 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to establish how innovative methods affect the performance of Kenyan insurance companies. The precise goals encompass establishing the impacts of market innovation, product innovation, service innovation and pricing innovation on performance.
Methodology: The study targeted all the 54 insurance firms registered by IRA. The sample size featured 162 respondents representing three respondent from each firm. Questionnaires were used to collect data from the respondents and the five-point Likert scale was used to construct the questions. Data analysis was done using correlation and regression analyses through SPSS. The results indicated that that overall market innovation had greater impact on financial performance. Advertisements and promotional strategies were associated with more positive impact and these may be the specific strategies that firms should focus on.
Findings: The overall positive results were also experienced by price innovation as price undercutting and offering discounts exhibited greater positive influence. The overall impact of service innovation and product innovation was established to be negative. Nevertheless, when assessed specifically, improving existing products had positive influences. Similarly for service innovation, improving old services recorded positive impacts relative to providing complementary services. In light of these results, the study recommended that firms be strategic and specific when implementing innovation strategies.
Unique Contributions to Theory, Policy and Practice: Also, the study recommended that firms support product innovation with market research, build an organizational culture that encourages, supports, and reward innovation, and encourage innovation mix to build greater success and foster holistic growth.
Etnografia e uso de plataformas digitais
Authors: Parreiras Carolina
Published: October 2024

Este artigo tem como objetivo abordar o WhatsApp, comunicador instantâneo que passa por um processo de plataformização, discutindo algumas das implicações teóricas, metodológicas e éticas de seu uso em pesquisas de campo. Nesse sentido, o WhatsApp pode ser tanto o contexto de campo quanto uma ferramenta estratégica para estabelecimento de relações com interlocutoras. Os eixos que guiam a argumentação giram em torno da importância de realizar boas descrições das plataformas digitais que utilizamos em etnografias, o processo de plataformização do WhatsApp, o caráter mundano da plataforma e a questão das intimidades que seu uso torna possível.
O papel das plataformas de mídias sociais e dos aplicativos de mensageria na integração de mulheres migrantes em Vitória (Es, Brasil)
Authors: Valentim Julio , Pavesi Patrícia
Published: October 2024

Este artigo explora como as redes familiares, as redes de amizade e as tecnologias digitais influenciam aintegração de mulheres migrantes em Vitória/ES (Brasil). Investigamos o papel das mídias sociais e dosaplicativos de mensageria na construção e manutenção dessas conexões sociais. Desenvolvemos umaabordagem de “Análise Multinível de Integração”. Utilizamos uma metodologia que combina análise de dadosquantitativos e qualitativos, métodos tradicionais e computacionais, incluindo a criação de um “Índice deIntegração Multinível”, para examinar a integração das migrantes em várias dimensões: social, cultural,econômica, política e espacial, numa análise abrangente e sistemática, tendo em vista uma compreensãomultinível das complexidades das experiências migratórias femininas e sua relação com tecnologias digitais eprocessos de integração.
Antropologia digital e imaginários etnográficos
Authors: Parreiras Carolina , Pavesi Patrícia
Published: October 2024

O Fórum reúne 7 artigos que exploram diversos aspectos da antropologia digital. Carla Barros analisa o perfil @thallitaxavier no TikTok e Instagram, investigando o “veganismo de periferia” como um fenômeno de consumo e disputa identitária. Stephanie Lima, Fernanda Martins e Catharina Vilela abordam a internet como espaço de construção de conhecimento e de si para pessoas negras e indígenas, explorando a produção e circulação de conhecimento on-line e off-line. Thaís Lassali discute a relação entre pesquisadores e os algoritmos das plataformas digitais, utilizando sua pesquisa sobre as reações a um filme blockbuster no YouTube para analisar a recepção programada. Caroline Coutinho Dal'orto investiga as pornotopias digitais e como a exploração comercial da intimidade no camming se articula com discursos morais sobre sexualidade e as novas condições de exposição e trabalho sexual on-line. Julio Valentim e Patrícia Pavesi exploram a influência das redes familiares, de amizade e das tecnologias digitais na integração de mulheres migrantes em Vitória (ES) utilizando a Análise Multinível de Integração por meio de etnografia e métodos computacionais para examinar a integração em diversas dimensões. Galba Cristina Bezerra Franca Scartezini e Carlos Eduardo Henning investigam como servidores 60+ da Universidade Federal de Goiás usam plataformas digitais e como isso impacta a digitalização das relações trabalhistas. Carolina Parreiras apresenta um artigo sobre o WhatsApp, chamando a atenção para seu processo de plataformização e para seu caráter mundano. Além disso, a partir de suas experiências de pesquisa de campo com o uso do WhatsApp, explora a questão das intimidades e dos desafios de se realizarem pesquisas que envolvam plataformas digitais. Além dos artigos, trazemos uma entrevista com a antropóloga indiana Sahana Udupa, uma das principais referências de perspectivas decoloniais aplicadas ao digital. E, ainda, a tradução de um importante artigo de Nick Seaver sobre os modos como a antropologia pode contribuir para o estudo de sistemas algorítmicos. Como este breve resumo dos artigos mostra, estamos falando de um campo altamente criativo, crítico e em rápidas mudanças, que acompanham em alguma medida as próprias transformações tecnológicas. O que a pessoa leitora encontrará são artigos que não apenas apresentam dados de campo, mas que problematizam o próprio uso das tecnologias digitais em investigações etnográficas. Ou mesmo que apontam para questões de relevância social e política, como as já citadas plataformização e datificação da vida. Esperamos que este conjunto de artigos seja mais uma contribuição à história da antropologia digital no Brasil, bem como ajude pesquisadores/as na realização de suas pesquisas no, do, com e para o digital.
Analisando narrativas de servidores 60+ da UFG sobre uso de plataformas digitais e digitalização das relações trabalhistas
Authors: Bezerra França Scartezini Galba Cristina , Henning Carlos Eduardo
Published: October 2024

Este artigo analisa as narrativas de servidores/as com 60 anos ou mais da Universidade Federal de Goiás (UFG) sobre o uso de plataformas digitais no ambiente de trabalho e os impactos da digitalização nas relações trabalhistas. Baseando-se em referências da antropologia digital e estudos sobre envelhecimento e evolução do trabalho, o estudo aborda as transformações decorrentes da implementação de sistemas digitais como o SEI, SouGov e UFGNet, além de ferramentas como o Google Workspace. Ao investigar as experiências desses/as servidores/as, buscamos entender as desigualdades digitais, os desafios enfrentados e as estratégias utilizadas para a adaptação à tecnologia. A pesquisa foi realizada com base em entrevistas e um survey aplicado durante a pandemia de COVID-19, período que intensificou o uso dessas plataformas.
El confesor del emperador. La memoria de san Pedro de Alcántara (1499-1562) en Yuste y en otros conventos de la diócesis de Plasencia
Authors: Calvo Gómez José Antonio
Published: October 2024

Este trabajo de investigación histórica trata de interpretar la memoria sobre la vida, la virtud heroica y el ministerio sacerdotal de san Pedro de Alcántara que perduraba, a principios del siglo xvii, en algunos conventos de la diócesis de Plasencia. La noticia sobre su predicación y la celebración de la eucaristía, que prolongaba durante horas en la oración, y la reconciliación sacramental como parte fundamental de la dirección y curación espiritual cobraron cierto protagonismo en la memoria colectiva de las comunidades religiosas en Plasencia frente a las referencias sobre penitencias rigurosas o fenómenos sobrenaturales confirmadas en otros lugares del territorio peninsular, también en Portugal. La nómina de los que acudieron a recibir sus consejos fue prolongada. El emperador Carlos V, retirado en Yuste desde el 3 de febrero de 1557, también pretendió beneficiarse de la potencia espiritual del franciscano, como reconocieron muchos de los testigos que intervinieron en el proceso para su canonización entre 1615 y 1616, pero san Pedro de Alcántara rehusó con amabilidad esta invitación al considerar que no era voluntad de Dios que quedase atrapado en un ministerio excluyente que le hubiera impedido mantener su actividad apostólica, frenética, en las comarcas extremeñas.
Microarquitecturas para la cogitació de Déu. Las celdas de día del monasterio de clarisas de Pedralbes (Barcelona)
Authors: Carrero Santamaría Eduardo
Published: October 2024

Las celdas de día son un conjunto único de habitaciones privadas, situadas en la antigua clausura del monasterio de Pedralbes. Construidas entre los siglos xiv y xvi, se levantaron en espacios disfuncionales, creando microarquitecturas realizadas en materiales como la madera, el yeso y la cerámica. Este trabajo hace un recorrido por la treintena de celdas que han llegado hasta nuestros días y propone algunas coordenadas para su interpretación en el contexto de la religiosidad mendicante, con el trasfondo de las artes barcelonesas entre el Gótico y el Renacimiento.
Demographic bias in machine learning: measuring transference from dataset bias to model predictions
Authors:   , Domínguez Catena Iris
Published: October 2024

As artificial intelligence (AI) systems increasingly influence critical decisions in society, ensuring fairness and avoiding bias have become pressing challenges. This dissertation investigates demographic bias in machine learning, with a particular focus on measuring how bias transfers from datasets to model predictions. Using Facial Expression Recognition (FER) as a primary case study, we develop novel metrics and methodologies to quantify and analyze bias at both the dataset and model levels. The thesis makes several key contributions to the field of algorithmic fairness. We propose a comprehensive taxonomy of types of dataset bias and metrics available for each type. Through extensive evaluation on FER datasets, we demonstrate the effectiveness and limitations of these metrics in capturing different aspects of demographic bias. Additionally, we introduce DSAP (Demographic Similarity from Auxiliary Profiles), a novel method for comparing datasets based on their demographic properties. DSAP enables interpretable bias measurement and analysis of demographic shifts between datasets, providing valuable insights for dataset curation and model development. Our research includes in-depth experiments examining the propagation of representational and stereotypical biases from datasets to FER models. Our findings reveal that while representational bias tends to be mitigated during model training, stereotypical bias is more likely to persist in model predictions. Furthermore, we present a framework for measuring bias transference from datasets to models across various bias induction scenarios. This analysis uncovers complex relationships between dataset bias and resulting model bias, highlighting the need for nuanced approaches to bias mitigation. Throughout the dissertation, we emphasize the importance of considering both representational and stereotypical biases in AI systems. Our work demonstrates that these biases can manifest and propagate differently, necessitating tailored strategies for detection and mitigation. By providing robust methodologies for quantifying and analyzing demographic bias, this research contributes to the broader goal of developing fairer and more equitable AI systems. The insights and tools presented here have implications beyond FER, offering valuable approaches for addressing bias in various machine learning applications. This dissertation paves the way for future work in algorithmic fairness, emphasizing the need for continued research into bias measurement, mitigation strategies, and the development of more inclusive AI technologies.