bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formation of Motor Actions in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders During Additional Adaptive Physical Education Classes
Authors: Kharchenko L.V. , Shamshualeeva E.F.
Published: October 2024

Objectives. Ski training classes for children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) help develop locomotor functions, develop physical qualities, strengthen health and compensate for the lack of motor activity. Adaptive physical education (APE) classes develop basic types of movements, including when moving on skis. Currently, in the practice of APE there are no methods that form motor actions in children with ASD by means of ski training. The author’s method of step-by-step formation of motor actions in ski training for children with ASD allows teaching the ability to move on skis in various ways.

Methods. The article presents the materials of an empirical study conducted in a group of 6 children with ASD aged 8—9 years. When teaching children motor skills in APE classes, the method of step-by-step formation of motor actions by means of ski training was used. Motor skills were assessed by the tests “Sliding step”, “Alternating two-step move”, “Simultaneous stepless move”. Diagnostics of the technique of performing ski moves was carried out by the method of expert assessment.

Results. The sliding step was mastered most successfully by children: 83% (n=5) of children mastered the sliding step technique. The correct technique for performing a simultaneous stepless and alternating two-step walk was mastered by 67% of children (n=4). The number of children capable of covering the distance using the alternating two-step walk and simultaneous stepless walk techniques increased from 1 to 5.

Conclusions. The presented results confirm the possibility of children with ASD mastering certain methods of skiing using a step-by-step method of forming motor actions. Application at each stage of non-verbal techniques, teaching methods (for example, action by demonstration), form the technique of ski moves in children. The proposed method was implemented in a guideline for the step-by-step teaching of motor actions in ski training for children with ASD. In the future, it is planned to develop a guideline for teaching the techniques of turns, ascents, and descents in ski training for children with ASD.
Flexion in gravitation and cosmology
Authors:   , Arena Evan James , Goldberg David M. , Bacon David J
Published: October 2024

Cosmic flexion, like cosmic shear, is a weak gravitational lensing correlation function whose signal originates from the large-scale structure of the Universe. Building on the observational success of cosmic shear, along with the unprecedented quality of large-scale cosmological datasets, the time is ripe to explore the practical constraints from cosmic flexion. Unlike cosmic shear, which probes a broad region of the matter power spectrum, cosmic flexion is sensitive to small scales (1 to 100 h/Mpc) and therefore can uniquely place constraints on the small-scale matter power spectrum. I present a theoretical formalism I have developed for cosmic flexion, which includes novel flexion-flexion and shear-flexion two-point correlations. Using observations from the first three years (Y3) of Dark Energy Survey (DES) observations, I present the DES Y3 Flexion Catalogue built using the Lenser flexion measurement pipeline. With flexion measurements for 45M galaxies across the DES Y3 footprint, this is the largest such catalogue to date. I use this catalogue to measure cosmic flexion for the first time, where I detect a cosmic shear-flexion signal that is consistent with theoretical predictions to within ~1[sigma] and rejects the null hypothesis to ~3[sigma]. In addition to weak gravitational lensing flexion in general relativity and [lambda]CDM cosmology, I also examine the behavior of flexion due to exotic, single-lens metrics and the cosmological implications of flexion in a modified gravity context. I find that directional flexion can distinguish between the case of a positive or negative convergence where directional shear cannot, and therefore can provide a unique lensing signature for exotic objects with Ellis wormhole-type metrics, which act as gravitational lenses. I also find cosmic flexion to be a unique probe of parametric models of modified gravity, particularly in the case of scale-dependent phenomenological post-general relativity functions.
Teleneuropsychological assessment in South America: A perspective from patients and neuropsychologists
Authors: Arruabarrena Micaela-Maria , Martin María-Eugenia , Calandri Ismael-Luis , Corvalán Nicolás , Helou María-Belén , Martínez Carlos , Crivelli Lucia
Published: October 2024

Teleneuropsychology (teleNP) in Argentina was promoted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This investigation aimed to evaluate patients’ and neuropsychologists’ satisfaction with teleNP and to identify the advantages and disadvantages of its use. 41 patients with mild cognitive impairment and 35 neuropsychologists from Argentina were surveyed. Both groups were sent a questionnaire by e-mail to evaluate their satisfaction and preferences regarding teleNP. Patients were sent the survey after being cognitively evaluated by teleNP. Outcomes reflected a 91% degree of satisfaction with teleNP, with no differences between patients and specialists (p = 0.112). Regarding patients, 50% had no predilection regarding evaluation modality, and 35.7% preferred teleNP. The main benefits identified were accessibility to remote areas (72.4%), and comfort of performing the assessment at home (57.14%). Moreover, 74.3% of practitioners reported that the principal difficulty was the patient’s lack of familiarity with the technology, and 60% a deficiency in environmental control. TeleNP cognitive evaluation has a high degree of acceptability for practitioners and patients. The main obstacles identified are network connection problems and the lack of familiarity with technology. The principal advantages come from accessing isolated areas. This suggests that this practice will remain relevant beyond the pandemic context.
World 4.0: Digital Transformation and Cognitive Neurosciences
Authors: Iglesias Santiago , Allegri Ricardo
Published: October 2024

Applied cognitive neuroscience is a discipline that aims to relate the neural substrate involved in cognitive processes, in the interpretation and most appropriate management of processes in various areas of life, such as in the case of organizations.
Cognitive Load on Leadership Decision-Making: Conscious and Unconscious responses
Authors: Aliqkaj Arnisa , Carvajal Ruben
Published: October 2024

Cognitive load significantly influences leadership decision-making, particularly in high-pressure scenarios. Despite its pivotal role, the connection between cognitive load, decision-making, and physiological responses among leaders remains inadequately understood. Our study aimed to explore the influence of age, sex, years of experience, educational level, and the interplay of reasoning versus intuition on both conscious and unconscious cognitive load during and after a leadership decision-making simulation task. We utilized Galvanic Skin Response (GSR) to evaluate unconscious responses. Notably, our findings revealed a noteworthy negative correlation between leadership experience and perceived cognitive load (r = -0.787, p < 0.007), a robust positive correlation between GSR during the task and decision-making (r = 0.999, p < 0.000), and a significant link between the application of Kahneman’s System 2 thinking – characterized by comprehensive analysis and critical thinking – and the quality of decision-making (r = -0.678, p < 0.031). However, we did not find significant correlations between age, sex, and educational level with perceived cognitive load during and after the decision-making task. In summary, our study suggests that seasoned leaders exhibit superior capabilities in managing cognitive load during complex decision-making scenarios and proposes physiological arousal as a potential indicator of cognitive load during leadership decision-making tasks.
Performance of the Boston Naming Test in a population of older adults with cognitive complaints
Authors: Lavin Luisina , Calzolari Aldo
Published: October 2024

Resumen. Objetivo: El objetivo de este artículo fue el análisis del rendimiento del Test de Denominación de Boston (BNT) en una población de adultos mayores de 59 años que acudió a consulta neuropsicológica por queja cognitiva, en el alto valle de Río Negro, Argentina. Método : Se realizó un análisis de Historias Clínicas (HC; n=270) que incluían el BNT de 60 láminas. Se incluyeron 128 HC de población de 60-69 años y 142 de 70 o más edad; 167 fueron mujeres. La población también fue discriminada por nivel educativo bajo (≥ 7 años de escolaridad); nivel medio (8-12 años) y alto (>12 años). Resultados: los resultados del BNT para esta población presentaron un desvío estándar por debajo de la norma acorde con edad e instrucción. Las láminas menos nombradas fueron, de menor a mayor: Bellota, Yugo, Castor, Esfinge, Pelícano, Estetoscopio y Trípode. Estas 7 láminas presentaron un porcentaje de aciertos menor a 20% para la población de menor nivel educativo. Excepto para Bellota y Yugo, las otras 5 láminas tuvieron un nivel de respuesta que aumentó a mayor nivel educativo. No se observaron diferencias significativas de respuesta discriminado por género. Este trabajo muestra que esta población padece los mismos problemas para el reconocimiento de láminas, que la población típica. Conclusiones: En la población mayor de 59 años que acude a consulta por queja cognitiva, a medida que disminuye el nivel educativo, los pacientes presentan menores porcentajes de acierto en el BNT. Se detectaron cinco láminas cuyo porcentaje de fallas es muy elevado en la población de baja educación (Trípode, Estetoscopio, Pelícano, Esfinge y Castor) y dos cuyo porcentaje de fallas es de orden cultural y no educativo (Yugo y Bellota). El reemplazo de algunas de estas láminas podría mejorar sustancialmente el aporte a la detección de anomia.
Semantic Externalism, Self-Knowledge, and Inter-personal Mental Ascription: A Neglected Puzzle
Authors: Tanaka Ryo
Published: October 2024

In this article, to revitalize the discussion on semantic externalism’s implications on the issue of content self-knowledge, I will argue that semantic externalism generates in fact two related but distinct skeptical puzzles concerning the presumption of truth attached to our mental self-ascriptions. The first is to explain how I can correctly ascribe mental states to myself, and the second is to explain how others can ascribe thoughts to me by taking my expressions of such self-ascriptions at face value. In my view, although the first has been sufficiently addressed in the literature, the second has been more or less neglected. Furthermore, as I will argue, theorists must respond to both of the questions to fully show the compatibility of our ordinary conception of self-knowledge and semantic externalism. As a case study, I will introduce Dorit Bar-On’s neo-expressivism as an account of self-knowledge that provides a promising answer to the first question and argue that it is still incomplete in that it does not address the second skeptical puzzle. To shed light on the nature of the puzzle in question further, I will also explore its possible solutions in the neo-expressivist framework.
The Cognitive Order of Society: Radicalizing the Ontological Turn in Critical Theory
Authors: Strydom Piet
Published: October 2024

Investigating Habermas’s radicalization of the ontological turn in the philosophy of language that eventuated in his universal or formal pragmatics, this article finds that he has not pursued his avowed radicalization far enough. By contrast with his claim that due to its conceptual thrust his type of formal pragmatics is required over and above the empiricist approach to sharpen social analysis, it emerges that his three world-concepts are social-theoretically underspecified. The direction in which the proposed radicalization beyond Habermas is pursued is determined by the core assumption that the ontological properties at issue are of a cognitive nature. The central argument is therefore that the ontological turn in Critical Theory represented by Habermas needs to be cognitive-sociologically radicalized, the result of which is the introduction of the concept of the cognitive order of society. The unique ontological status of the cognitive order thus also needs explication. Finally, that the lack of this concept systematically leaves a conspicuous theoretical gap in contemporary Critical Theory is briefly indicated with reference to some recent key publications by Honneth and Forst and Günther.
METHODOLOGICAL CHALLENGES IN TEACHING WRITING WITH CHATGPT
Authors: Gutai Gabor , Klimova Blanka
Published: October 2024

This study addresses the methodological challenges encountered in teaching writing using ChatGPT. It explores the complexities of designing effective instructional strategies, collecting relevant data, and interpreting results in the context of integrating AI technology into the writing classroom. The research sheds light on the multifaceted nature of these challenges and includes issues such as incorporating AI-generated feedback, ensuring pedagogical alignment, and addressing ethical considerations. By exploring these complexities, this study offers insight into improving writing instruction with AI technology.
UNIVERSITY LANGUAGE PROGRAMS: THE EARLY SIGNS OF UNDERLYING PROFESSIONALIZATION
Authors: Haroun Zineb
Published: October 2024

This article analyzes the integration of professional skills into language university programs, with a particular focus on the French language degree. It highlights an interactive dynamic between theoretical knowledge and practical skills, emphasizing how these elements complement each other to prepare students for the demands of the job market while maintaining a balance with academic values. The article proposes curricular adjustments to reinforce this dynamic and integrate 21st-century skills, while also suggesting research perspectives to evaluate the impact of these reforms on graduates' employability.
ПРОБЛЕМИ ТА ПЕРСПЕКТИВИ ПРАВОВОГО РЕГУЛЮВАННЯ СТВОРЕННЯ І ВИКОРИСТАННЯ БПЛА В УКРАЇНІ
Authors: Поліщук Інна , Меланіч Владислав
Published: October 2024

Мета: дослідити та проаналізувати стан правового регулювання створення та використання безпілотних літальних апаратів в Україні з окресленням сучасної оцінки ризиків та безпеки і перспектив розвитку БПЛА з урахуванням технологічних, економічних та соціальних аспектів. Методи дослідження: для досягнення зазначеної мети у роботі були використані загальнонаукові методи: системного аналізу аналізу та синтезу, формальної логіки, діалектики, узагальнення та прогнозування, а також спеціальні юридичні методи: системно-функціональний, порівняльно-правовий, формально-юридичний. Результати: стверджується важливість правового регулювання створення і використання БПЛА в Україні, його реформування у зв’язку зі швидким розвитком технологій та актуалізацією потреб, обумовлених євроінтеграційними процесами та умовами воєнного стану в країні. Вбачається необхідним при цьому не лише вдосконалення існуючих нормативно-правових актів, пов’язаних з безпілотними літальними апаратами, а й прийняття окремого спеціального закону, який би уніфікував всі аспекти належного правового регулювання використання БПЛА відповідно до міжнародних та європейських стандартів, юридично закріпив процедури та правила для потенційних учасників швидкозростаючого ринку безпілотних літальних апаратів. Обговорення: використання БПЛА повинно регулюватися в залежності від ризику кожної конкретної операції, а не бути стандартизованим; легалізація повністю автоматизованих БПЛА, які керуються за допомогою штучного інтелекту; процедурність використання БПЛА у правоохоронній діяльності; дерегуляція використання повітряного простору для зменшення ризику зіткнення БПЛА з іншими повітряними суднами та між собою.
TECHNOLOGY AND LEGAL CHALLENGES OF CONTEMPORARY ARMED CONFLICT
Authors: Samakashvili Ana
Published: October 2024

The purpose of the article is to research the relationship between IHL, IHRL and national law norms, and to give recommendations about the prevention of using technologies in contemporary armed conflicts. Research methods: in the article, the research was carried out using the comparative-legal method in order to present the relationship between international and national legal norms. Also, we will use the normative method to emphasize the need of introduction of new norms to regulate the problem. Results: after the World War II, adoption of the new international norms significantly decreased the war statistics, however, in recent years, development of technologies, which was further accelerated by the pandemic, changed the mentioned statistics, to the extent that new technologies are actively used in war. Unfortunately, preventive and/or prohibitive international norms do not exist, therefore, we do not have the practice of regulating them. Paucity of regulative norms and the absence of proper literature in this field underscores the relevance of this topic. The use of new technologies can lead to violations of the principles of international law and human rights, which requires the creation of preventive mechanisms within the framework of international law. Discussion: the relevance of the topic is also determined by the war situation in the world, which reminds us that against the backdrop of challenges in international law, there is a gap in terms of illegal integration of technologies in contemporary armed conflicts, which, as a result, leads to a  breach of human rights and violation of the norms of both the Geneva Convention and the European Convention on Human Rights.
ПРАВО НА ЗАБУТТЯ, ЯК ОДНЕ З ОСНОВНИХ ПРАВ ЛЮДИНИ У ЦИФРОВУ ЕПОХУ
Authors: Сопілко Ірина
Published: October 2024

Метою статті є дослідження права на забуття, як одного з основних прав людини у цифрову епоху. Методи дослідження: документальний аналіз, узагальнення правової інформації. Результати: у статті проведено аналіз одного з основних прав людини у цифрову епоху – права за забуття. Вказано, що з початку розвитку сучасних технологій, зокрема з появою всесвітньої системи Інтернет, людство увійшло у часи, коли реалізувати свої права можливо не тільки у матеріальному вимірі, а й у цифровому, у зв’язку з чим постають питання гарантування та захисту цифрових прав людини. Більше того, повномасштабна війна в Україні стала каталізатором низки проблем у гарантуванні прав людини. З одного боку цифровізація є підґрунтям для гібридної війни та «хакерних атак», викрадення інформації, спотворення даних, з іншого боку вона створює умови для доступу до різних видів публічних та інших послуг, впровадження цифрових інструментів у системі захисту прав громадян, має стати основою для гарантування доступу до якісних публічних послуг. Обговорення: поняття «цифрові права» не закріплено у чинному національному законодавстві, що викликає певні труднощі у підходах правозастосування. Окремі автори вказують, що під цифровими правами доцільно розуміти систему норм та правил поведінки, які закріплюють права і свободи людини щодо належного доступу та використання електронних пристроїв, можливості створення, використання і публікацію цифрових товарів, а також комунікаційних мереж, зокрема, мережі Інтернет.
Зазначено, що поява цифрових прав пов’язана з виникненням права вимагати видалення персональних даних, конфіденційної інформації про особу з мережі Інтернет. Зокрема таке право має назву «право на стирання» або «право бути забутим».
Зроблено висновок, що право бути забутим хоч і відносно нове, проте воно є одним із основних прав людини у цифрову епоху. Звісно введення цього права стикається з невизначеністю у правозастосовній сфері та з американського погляду, європейське право бути забутим катастрофічне для свободи вираження, проте «право бути забутим» – це відносно недавня і нова юридична концепція з великими наслідками для інтернет-політики, свободи вираження поглядів та конфіденційності. Саме це призводить до необхідності впровадження в Україні права на забуття, зокрема проведення реформи законодавства у сфері захисту персональних даних шляхом уведення відповідних норм у чинне національне законодавство. Крім того варто створити принципово нові інструменти захисту особи від розміщення персональних даних, а також механізми видалення цих матеріалів через запровадження механізму юридичної відповідальності.
Quasinormal forms for systems of two equations with large delay
Authors:   P. G. Demidov Yaroslavl State University, Russia, Kashchenko Sergej , Tolbey Anna ,   P. G. Demidov Yaroslavl State University, Russia
Published: October 2024

A system of two equations with delay is considered. The purpose of this work is to study the local dynamics of this system under the assumption that the delay parameter is sufficiently large. Critical cases in the problem of stability of an equilibrium state are identified and it is shown that they have infinite dimension. Methods. The research is based on the use of special methods of infinite-dimensional normalization. Classical methods based on the application of the theory of invariant integral manifolds and normal forms turn out to be directly inapplicable. Results. As the main results, special nonlinear boundary value problems are constructed, which play the role of normal forms. Their nonlocal dynamics determine the behavior of all solutions of the original system in the vicinity of the equilibrium state.
Fictional Verisimilities and the Didactic in Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani’s I do not come to you by Chance.
Authors: Ushie Omagu Dr Steve , Akika Okun Paul
Published: October 2024

The 21st century Nigerian space has incontrovertibly incentivised the fictional writer with abounding dieges that predominantly narrativized the social realism of the author’s society. It is from this mimetic assemblage that Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani’s I Do Not Come to You by Chance (2009) stems from. This paper uses the Postcolonial Theory as an investigative and analytical tool to explore the significance of fictional verisimilitude in communicating the didactic in the Nigerian socio-political and economic situation. Meanwhile, this qualitative research is hinged on the novelist’s representational exactitude of the social realism of the Nigerian space while foregrounding the impact of the family as a social agency on the thematic preoccupation of the e-fraud or hustle narrative. Nwaubani’s novel is insightful and even prophetically rendered to capture the socio-economic fragmentation that has become emblematic of contemporary Nigerian space. This paper further probes the aggressive Nigerian existentialist consciousness ultimately rooted in the e-fraud narrative. This paper implicates the apparatuses of power for their insensibilities to the plight of the Nigerian youth inadvertently and seemingly affecting the demonising image of Nigeria/ns in the global marketplace. Pertinently, Nwaubani strongly provokes a didactic evocation as she foreshadows the place of the family as a retooling moral compass. This paper, therefore foregrounds that, the text ultimately acts as an ethical road map for the re-evaluation and re-charting of the recent moral decadence bedevilling the Nigerian space, especially in the 21st century city space.
Failed Attempts at Sino-Japanese Security Cooperation
Authors: Żakowski Karol
Published: October 2024

The aim of this chapter is to analyze the reasons of failure in establishing a stable framework for Sino-Japanese security cooperation after the end of Cold War. Since the 1990s both countries have tried many times to strengthen mutual trust, institutionalize military exchange or create a telephone hotline for emergency situations, but so far these efforts have remained futile. While in 2006– 2010 it seemed that China and Japan started overcoming mutual prejudices, the situation deteriorated after the two East China Sea incidents in 2010 and 2012. The article argues that both countries have been unable to develop a full-fledged cooperation in the security field due to history problems, contrasting visions of regional security system, territorial disputes, and rivalry for leadership in East Asia.
This article is a result of research conducted as a part of a project financed by the Polish National Science Centre based on decision No. DEC-2013/11/B/HS5/04005. In 2017 the author received the prize of the University of Lodz Foundation.
North Korea’s Fourth Nuclear Test
Authors: Süvari Kahraman
Published: October 2024

North Korean state media announced on January 6, 2016 that North Korea had successfully conducted its fourth underground nuclear test. Most importantly, it was also claimed by the North that it was a hydrogen bomb test. It is already known that North Korea previously performed three underground nuclear tests in 2006, 2009, and 2013. Despite all the pressure from the international community, why did North Korea conduct the fourth nuclear test? The main aim of this study is to examine North Korea’s 2016 nuclear test. The study consists of three parts. Firstly, the four nuclear tests performed by the North since 2006 will be analyzed. Although it is highly controversial that North Korea’s fourth nuclear test was a hydrogen bomb test, as a matter of fact it was a test of a nuclear explosive device. But, how was the last nuclear test different from previous tests? In the second section, the possible reasons behind the fourth nuclear test will be discussed. Different factors might drive the North to perform the nuclear testing. However, in this study, it is argued that North Korea’s leadership carried out the fourth nuclear test mainly because it wants to strengthen its nuclear deterrent against the perceived threats to itself. Lastly, the study will end with a general assessment about the main findings.
The impact of the US Rebalancing Policy toward Asia Pacific on International Relations in the region
Authors: Kasım Kamer
Published: October 2024

The importance of Asia-Pacific region in United States (US) foreign policy increased in recent years. The US paid special attention to the region during the Obama era declaring the region as a ‘pivot’. The US rebalancing policy has economic, political/diplomatic, and military dimensions aimed to increase the US presence in the region and close cooperation with the US’s allies. The growing influence of China in combination with the South and East China Sea problems led to the US administration coming up with the rebalancing strategy. The US conducted this policy together with its engagement with China. Therefore, China’s perception of the US rebalancing as a kind of containment strategy would not be helpful for the continuation of the strategy. Lack of harmony and disagreements among the US allies in the region challenged the rebalancing policy. The increasing importance of the region in the world economy and the existence of problems in South and East China Sea mean that the US would continue political, economic and military engagement in the region. This paper analyses the main parameters and shortcomings of the US rebalancing strategy in Asia-Pacific and its regional and global implications.
Experimental comparison of closed cooling systems of photovoltaic modules
Authors: Sorogin Alexander S. , Khamitov Rustam N. , Zherebtsov Sergey N.
Published: October 2024

Relevance. The need to increase the efficiency of solar modules to 15–20% by cooling their surface, which in spring and summer is able to heat up to 70 ℃. Heat collection from photovoltaic modules is an additional opportunity to accumulate heat and use it for their own needs, especially for isolated power systems. The article discusses methods of closed cooling using tubes made of copper, metal plastic and stainless steel. All measurements were carried out in summer at a real, operating solar power plant located in the Crimea village of Karyernoe. Aim. To experimentally determine and identify the effect of the most efficient cooling system for photovoltaic modules. Methods. Methods of empirical research. In the experiment, sensors connected to the Arduino UNO system were used to measure the temperature and humidity of the ambient air, the temperature of the refrigerant at the inlet and outlet, and the data were recorded in an Excel table. Soudal FIX ALL adhesive sealant is used to fix the cooling system. Results and conclusions. The authors have obtained volt-ampere characteristics, refrigerant inlet and outlet temperatures, photovoltaic modules surface temperatures. The cooling system made of stainless steel pipes showed the greatest cooling efficiency of the solar module, which allowed reducing the module temperature from 66 to 38℃ at some points. This increased the efficiency of photoelectric module by 3.5% relative to the rated power. The heated liquid from the photoelectric module has cooled down to its original temperature values, thanks to the installed cooling radiator, for the possibility of reuse of the liquid in the solar panel cooling circuit.
Increasing EBITDA by Optimizing IT costs for Private Equity Portfolio Companies
Authors: Liepert Maximilian
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this study is to examine how private equity firms can increase the EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization) of their portfolio companies through IT cost reduction strategies. A collective case study approach was used along with quantitative data collection schemes. The collective case study provided the advantage of making comparisons across various companies through replication. The quantitative research design allowed for the collection of quantitative data focusing on the performance of the three firms, namely Vista Equity Partners, the Blackstone Group Inc. and CVC Capital Partners. Five key measures were applied, i.e., margin expansion, capital expenditure (CAPEX), capital efficiency, working capital efficiency and mean adjusted change. The IT cost reduction strategies serve as value creation schemes that accentuate the EBITDA in the divestment context of private equity firms. The strategies reduce and eliminate waste, with a primary focus on optimizing being IT costs.
A New Perspective on Real Estate in Thailand in the Post-Epidemic Era: Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis
Authors: Zhai Fan , Dawod Ahmad , Chanaim Somsak , Suyaroj Naret
Published: October 2024

The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of the pandemic on Thailand’s real estate market and to propose recommendations for investors and other market participants on how to continue operating in the market. The primary research methods employed were analysis, forecasting, and abstraction. The impact of the global pandemic on Thailand and the country’s economy, with a particular focus on the real estate sector, was evaluated. The changes observed in the real estate sector since the onset of the pandemic were presented, including a decline in activity due to travel restrictions, a correction of residential and commercial property prices, an increase in demand for suburban properties, and a shift towards online sales, among other notable developments.
Fertilizantes en la producción agrícola: un análisis de la percepción de uso
Authors: Vicente-Solano Sol Valeria , Calle-Arancibia Margarita Elhiz
Published: October 2024

El objetivo de esta investigación fue analizar la percepción de los agricultores sobre el uso de fertilizantes en la producción agrícola del Valle del Cunas, Junín, Perú, abordando la dependencia de estos insumos para la productividad agrícola y los diversos factores que influyen en su uso. Se utilizó un enfoque cualitativo con el método hipotético deductivo de diseño no experimental y de corte transversal. La población fue de 250 agricultores del mismo subsector hídrico, seleccionando una muestra de 47 mediante muestreo no probabilístico por conveniencia. La recolección de datos se realizó en dos etapas: entrevistas abiertas a 7 agricultores y un cuestionario a 40. Los resultados mostraron que los fertilizantes son cruciales, especialmente para cultivos como papa y maíz, con una notable preferencia por el fosfato diamónico (72.5 %), cloruro de potasio (57.5 %) y nitrato de amonio (37.5 %). Sin embargo, el 92.5 % de los agricultores enfrentan dificultades para adquirir fertilizantes, a pesar de un aumento del 70 % en su disponibilidad. La conclusión resalta la necesidad de políticas gubernamentales que mejoren la accesibilidad y distribución de fertilizantes, y apoyen específicamente a los agricultores de pequeña y mediana escala para asegurar un desarrollo agrícola sostenible en la región.
UK Aid Spending and Public Sector Governance
Authors: Avis William Robert , Onuoha Emole Emmanuel
Published: October 2024

This rapid evidence review utilises Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) data to provide an overview of United Kingdom (UK) Official Development Assistance (ODA) disbursed to partner governments and delivered through the public sector. The review also highlights amounts disbursed to support Public Financial Management interventions in specific countries.
Hipotetyczna metafizyka kultury
Authors: Pacukiewicz Marek
Published: October 2024

Formułując jakiekolwiek stwierdzenie na temat kultury wkraczamy w obszar metafizyki — namysłu nad całością substancjalnie traktowanego bytu. Tym samym każda teoria kultury ma charakter metafizyczny lub przynajmniej z fundamentu metafizycznego wyrasta, co wciąż warte jest przemyślenia. Wprawdzie Karl Popper rozdzielił teorię i metafizykę granicą falsyfikowalności, jednak podkreślał równocześnie wagę i znaczenie horyzontu metafizycznego dla uprawiania nauki. Nieco podobną drogą podąża Mścisław Wartenberg w swojej koncepcji metafizyki hipotetycznej. Warto powrócić do tej propozycji, aby zastanowić się nad metafizycznym charakterem współczesnych, możliwych teorii kultury.
Review of: Social Exclusion in the UK: The Lived Experience
Authors: Webb Gemma
Published: October 2024

Book review from Gemma Webb
Using the generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) chatbots of Perplexity and ChatGPT as a teaching and learning tool for practice teachers and students within social work placement
Authors: McGovern Marguerita
Published: October 2024

Abstract:
Artificial intelligence (AI) is the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines or computer systems. As large language generated pretrained transformers, when given a prompt the chatbot system rewards the user with a ‘human-like’ response from their massive dataset of information. Their velocity, scope and capabilities become immense. This article is an illustrative analysis focusing on the rise of AI and its applications within industry, health and in particular, social work placement. The suggestion is to encourage practice teachers and students within supervision to use the chatbots ChatGPT or Perplexity in order to enhance critical thinking. To further consider the areas such as language, power, intuition, confidentiality, ethics, values and beliefs in this brave new world. Limitations of chatbot use within supervision is explored and a balanced conclusion recognising the worth of social work as a profession but not denying the speed of artificial intelligence development is recognised. From a social work placement perspective this article considers how working from a new evidence base, the application of critically analysing digitally produced knowledge, can be a relevant teaching tool within placement supervision.
Nuevos retos para los derechos sexuales y reproductivos. La emergencia de los neoconservadurismos religiosos en la OEA
Authors: Peñas Defago María Angélica
Published: October 2024

Como muchas otras regiones del mundo, América Latina está experimentando un aumento de la movilización política neoconservadora. Los derechos sexuales y reproductivos son uno de los principales ejes a través de los cuales se expresa este neoconservadurismo. En las últimas décadas, una de las arenas clave de impacto de estos sectores en oposición a estos derechos remite a los foros internacionales de derechos humanos. Las Naciones Unidas y, más recientemente, la Organización de Estados Americanos son territorios clave de disputa. Considerando este fenómeno el presente trabajo propone un análisis de en torno a la emergencia de estos actores en la arena regional de derechos humanos, así como una caracterización de sus principales redes y alianzas.
Perspectiva comparada del acceso ciudadano a los servicios digitales en América Latina. Entre el derecho fundamental, el servicio público y la cuestión de la eficacia
Authors: Molina Dimitrijevich Alexandra
Published: October 2024

El presente artículo tiene como propósito el análisis del acceso ciudadano a Internet tomando en consideración el caso de América Latina bajo el prisma de dos conceptos esenciales del Derecho Público (en concreto, me refiero al Derecho Constitucional y al Derecho Administrativo, respectivamente): los derechos fundamentales y el servicio público. Estos dos conceptos esenciales de las citadas áreas de Derecho Público ciertamente interactúan, a modo de consideraciones dogmáticas que, en la práctica, han de dar instrumentos, mimbres o marcos sólidos para conseguir la efectividad del acceso a Internet por parte de la ciudadanía en un mundo inmensamente digitalizado.
Aplicación de la Inteligencia Artificial a la toma de decisiones judiciales
Authors: Cabrera Fernández Marta
Published: October 2024

La Inteligencia Artificial (IA) ha irrumpido en el ámbito del Derecho para quedarse, despertando varias incógnitas acerca de su verdadero alcance y utilidad práctica. Uno de los momentos procesales que más se ha estudiado de cara a una automatización digital es la toma de decisiones judiciales, pero la incapacidad de los instrumentos de IA para motivar las soluciones que puedan ofrecer para un determinado caso limita esa sistematización. Aun así, las herramientas de IA pueden proporcionar auxilio judicial a través de algoritmos de evaluación de riesgos y otros sistemas expertos jurídicos, además de existir la posibilidad de crear tribunales digitales sin emular el razonamiento del juez y prescindiendo de la motivación en los casos simples susceptibles de una automatización también analógica. En este trabajo estudiaremos tales instrumentos de IA, su eficacia y utilidad y la afectación al deber de motivación que supondría la sustitución judicial digital.
The Neurogenic Effects of Pasak bumi (Eurycoma longifolia Jack) and Seluang Fish (Rasbora spp.) in Malnutrition-Induced Rat
Authors: Didik Dwi Sanyoto  , Triawanti Triawanti , Meitria Syahadatina Noor  , Dimas Ikhsan Airlangga
Published: October 2024

Highlights:1. This study analyzed the effects of using locally sourced pasak bumi extract and seluang fish on the parameters of neurogenesis in malnourished rat models.2. It promotes further exploration into modified treatments for malnutrition, emphasizing nutritional strategies that harness locally available natural resources.
 
Abstract
Early developmental malnutrition exerts adverse effects on the structural, neurochemical, and neurophysiological maturation of cerebral cells by disrupting the process of neurogenesis. Pasak bumi (Eurycoma longifolia Jack) and seluang fish (Rasbora spp.), two indigenous natural resources of South Kalimantan, Indonesia, are believed to harbor nutritional components capable of mitigating these deleterious effects. We aimed to assess the impact of administering pasak bumi, seluang fish, and pure docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on the neurogenesis process in malnourished rat models. The Rattus norvegicus specimens were partitioned into seven distinct cohorts, each consisting of five rats: healthy rats in the negative control group (KN), while malnourished rats in the positive control (KP) and treatment groups (P1, P2, P3, P4, and P5). Both the KP and KN groups received a placebo and a standard feed. The treatment groups received different interventions for five weeks: standard feed alongside pasak bumi extract for the P1 group, standard feed and DHA for the P2 group, standard feed in combination with pasak bumi extract and DHA for the P3 group, seluang fish for the P4 group, and pasak bumi extract and seluang fish for the P5 group. The doses determined for the pasak bumi extract and DHA were 15 and 1 mg/kg bw, respectively. The parameters evaluated consisted of the levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), neural progenitor cell β-tubulin 3 (Tuj-1) expression, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ). The data were subjected to analysis through the Kruskal-Wallis test and analysis of variance (ANOVA) at a 95% confidence level. A value of p<0.05 was considered significant. Statistically significant differences were observed in the BDNF levels (p=0.00) and Tuj-1 expressions (p=0.01) across all groups. In conclusion, the combined administration of pasak bumi and seluang fish demonstrates the capacity of enhancing neurogenesis in malnourished rats, as evidenced by elevated BDNF levels and Tuj-1 expressions.
Antibacterial Potential of Endemic Medicinal Plants of the Maluku Islands, Indonesia, against Urinary Tract Infection Pathogens
Authors: Eka Astuty  , Vinsa Delia Luhulima  , Stefanus Cahyo Ariwicaksono
Published: October 2024

Highlights:1. Clove, cinnamon, and eucalyptus have found to be able to providing antibacterial agents for urinary tract infection (UTI).2. Ethanol extracts derived from clove leaves, cinnamon bark, and eucalyptus leaves can inhibit pathogenic bacteria responsible for UTI, indicating their potential as sources of bioactive compounds for UTI medication development.
 
Abstract
Medicinal plants possess antimicrobial properties that have been believed to be efficacious for treating various diseases. However, antimicrobial-based medicinal plants remain an untapped source of potential pharmaceuticals. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial properties of ethanolic extracts derived from several medicinal plants endemic to Maluku, Indonesia, specifically regarding their antibacterial activity against isolates of pathogenic bacteria found in the urine samples of urinary tract infection (UTI) patients. This was a true experimental research with a posttest-only control group design. The medicinal plant extraction was conducted using the maceration method. The pathogens were isolated using the dilution method. Following the pathogen isolation, the isolates were identified according to the colony morphology, Gram staining, and biochemical test results. The antibacterial activity was determined through the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion test. The results indicated that five selected isolates (i.e., 0A1, 0A2, 0A3, 0A4, and 0A5) had a round shape with flat edges. Isolates 0A2 and 0A4 exhibited a solid white color, whereas isolates 0A1 and 0A3 displayed an off-white color, and isolate 0A5 showed a yellow color. Isolates 0A1, 0A2, and 0A4 were Gram-positive bacteria, while isolates 0A3 and 0A5 demonstrated Gram-negative characteristics. The biochemical testing revealed that the five selected isolates were identified as Staphylococcus warneri, Staphylococcus haemolyticus, Enterobacter aerogenes, Enterococcus faecium, and Escherichia coli. The ethanol extracts of clove (Syzygium aromaticum) leaves, cinnamon (Cinnamomum burmannii) bark, and eucalyptus (Melaleuca leucadendra) leaves demonstrated the ability to inhibit pathogenic bacteria responsible for UTI. Clove leaf ethanol extract exhibited the highest average clear zone compared to the other two ethanol extracts. This study concluded that medicinal plants from Maluku, Indonesia, the clove, cinnamon, and eucalyptus, have antibacterial potential that may be effective in treating UTI. Further investigation is necessary to fully comprehend the mechanisms of action, detection, and description of bioactive compounds, particularly against human pathogens.
Do governance indicators have a role in remittances-growth nexus in Egypt?
Authors: Alamoudi Abdulrhman
Published: October 2024

Purpose ― Drawing on annual data from 1996 to 2022, this study aims to examine the effect of Egypt’s real GDP growth. Methods ― Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) and Cointegration technique are applied by first examining the stationarity of the series by utilizing the Augmented-Dicky-Fuller (ADF) unit root test. The bound cointegration test is then implemented to evaluate the existence of cointegration among the variables. Findings ― The results indicate that the GDP growth rate has a long-run positive relationship with remittance inflows in Egypt. This paper also finds that the average governance indicators in Egypt, which include government effectiveness, political stability, control of corruption and regulatory quality, voice and accountability, and the rule of law, could help facilitate the long-run effect of remittances on GDP growth. Implication ― The findings imply that maintaining high levels of governance indicators is essential for helping Egypt benefit from remittances and enhancing its economic growth.Originality/value ― The study is a pioneer in including the average governance indicators in the remittance-growth nexus study for Egypt. Its purpose is to assess whether governance quality affects the nexus and whether there exists a threshold for the average governance indicators below which the flow of remittances does not encourage economic growth.
Deriving Fundamental Physics via Entropy Maximization under a Universal Measurement Constraint
Authors: Harvey-Tremblay Alexandre
Published: October 2024

We present a novel derivation of fundamental physical laws by solving a maximization problem on the Shannon entropy of all possible measurements relative to a system's initial state, subject to a universal measurement constraint. Its most sophisticated solution involves 3+1-dimensional measurements that include both bivectors and complex numbers. In this case, the solution describes a relativistic quantum theory that naturally yields the metric tensor of general relativity through a double-copy mechanism applied to the Dirac current and that inherently incorporates the SU(3)xSU(2)xU(1) gauge symmetries of the Standard Model. These findings reveal deep connections between probability theory and the mathematical structures underlying fundamental physics, offering new insights into the emergence of 3+1 spacetime dimensions, gravity, and symmetry structures in our universe.
On a Non‐Standard Atomic Model Developed in the Context of Bridge Electromagnetic Theory
Authors: Auci Massimo
Published: October 2024

In the context of the Bridge Electromagnetic Theory, a quantum-relativistic theory based on Maxwellian electromagnetism, it has recently been shown that the characteristics of a hydrogen atom can be obtained through an electron-proton orbital capture process forming a non-radial emitting dipolar electromagnetic source. The model structurally different to the Bohr-Sommerfeld and Schrödinger models has now been deepened and completed by testing it on the properties of hydrogen and deuterium atoms and of helium and lithium in hydrogenoid form. These last two atoms are of cosmological interest as they are the heaviest elements produced by electron capture in the early universe. The theoretical results obtained regarding the atomic structure and spectra are in excellent agreement with the observational data by suggesting the implicit correctness of the model. It is also highlighted that the electron-nucleus interaction is influenced on an isotopic basis as a function of the value of the inertial mass of the nuclei considered.