bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Attitudes of Natural Science Undergraduate Students Towards Microsoft Teams – Post the Covid-19 Pandemic, at a South African University
Authors: Momoti Vuyokazi
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study is to assess the feasibility of adopting effective e-learning with Microsoft Teams in a South African university. The study sample was purposefully chosen to include 30 registered Natural Sciences students. The study used questionnaires to collect data from 30 undergraduate students enrolled in Natural Science courses at the university using a quantitative research approach. Descriptive statistics such as mean and standard deviation were used to analyse the data. The IBM SPSS Statistics was the program utilized for data analysis. According to the study’s findings, the majority of students prefer to learn in person due to challenges such as load shedding and a reluctance to connect on the Teams platform. The TPACK Theoretical Framework, which states that comprehension of technology applications is vital in terms of pedagogy and content, lends credence to the study’s assumption. This study aims to provide a thorough analysis of the advantages of e-learning as well as student opinions on the new learning platform.

Keywords: Electronic learning, Covid-19 pandemic, IBM SPSS Statistics, Microsoft Teams
A Machine Learning Approach to Understanding the Physical Properties of Magnetic Flux Ropes in the Solar Wind at 1 au
Authors: Farooki Hameedullah , Abduallah Yasser , Noh Sung Jun , Kim Hyomin , Bizos George , Shin Youra , Wang Jason T. L. , Wang Haimin
Published: January 2024

Interplanetary magnetic flux ropes (MFRs) are commonly observed structures in the solar wind, categorized as magnetic clouds (MCs) and small-scale MFRs (SMFRs) depending on whether they are associated with coronal mass ejections. We apply machine learning to systematically compare SMFRs, MCs, and ambient solar wind plasma properties. We construct a data set of 3-minute averaged sequential data points of the solar wind’s instantaneous bulk fluid plasma properties using about 20 years of measurements from Wind. We label samples by the presence and type of MFRs containing them using a catalog based on Grad–Shafranov (GS) automated detection for SMFRs and NASA's catalog for MCs (with samples in neither labeled non-MFRs). We apply the random forest machine learning algorithm to find which categories can be more easily distinguished and by what features. MCs were distinguished from non-MFRs with an area under the receiver-operator curve (AUC) of 94% and SMFRs with an AUC of 89%, and had distinctive plasma properties. In contrast, while SMFRs were distinguished from non-MFRs with an AUC of 86%, this appears to rely solely on the 〈B〉 > 5 nT threshold applied by the GS catalog. The results indicate that SMFRs have virtually the same plasma properties as the ambient solar wind, unlike the distinct plasma regimes of MCs. We interpret our findings as additional evidence that most SMFRs at 1 au are generated within the solar wind. We also suggest that they should be considered a salient feature of the solar wind’s magnetic structure rather than transient events.
Categorization of Spatial and Temporal Ejecta Outcomes in Binary Systems Based on Variations of the Didymos System
Authors: Larson Jennifer N. , Fernandez Yanga , Sarid Gal
Published: January 2024

With the increasing number of binary asteroid systems being discovered, ejecta studies must expand from solely investigating single-body systems to modeling more complex multiple-body systems. For example, the Double Asteroid Redirection Test provides an opportunity to study the dynamics of a debris cloud around Didymos and Dimorphos, a near-Earth binary asteroid system. Here we simulate 72 variations on the Didymos system in order to categorize types of ejecta outcomes and analyze the influence of the varying system parameters on each outcome. We have varied five parameters: the system separation, the mass ratio between the two bodies, the impact location, the target-body shape, and the target-body rotation period. The resulting provenance maps of the final ejecta distributions were blindly sorted into five categories, while the resulting cumulative distribution functions (CDFs), describing the rate at which particles hit the surface, were blindly sorted into eight categories. We count the occurrences of the parameter values in each of the categories and apply a Cramer’s V statistical test to evaluate the significance of the association between each varied effect and the overall grouping of the provenance maps and CDFs. We conclude that more dominant effects, such as a small rotation period, produce notably similar ejecta distributions that result in being assigned to the same category. Less dominant effects, such as target-body location, are sorted into several categories due to the larger influence of varying dominant effects.
An overview of the Leucospidae (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea) of the Arabian Peninsula with description of a new species
Authors: Ahmad Syed Kamran , Usman Syeda Uzma , Khan Farmanur Rahman , Lotfalizadeh Hossein , Dawah Hassan A. , Rizvi Parvez Qamar , Anwar Prince Tarique
Published: January 2024

An overview of the family Leucospidae (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea) is provided for the leucospid fauna of the Arabian Peninsula. Two genera containing four species are identified based on morphometrics and colour patterns. One species, Leucospis ayezae Usman, Anwar & Ahmad, sp. nov., is described. Leucospis elegans Klug had been previously recorded from Arabia Felix (= Yemen) and is recorded here for the first time from Saudi Arabia. The status of Leucospis aff. namibica from Yemen has been clarified, and this species is placed here in the genus Micrapion Kriechbaumer as M. clavaforme Steffan. An updated key and a map showing the distribution of the family Leucospidae in the Arabian Peninsula is provided. The occurrence and color morphs of all leucospid species that have been recorded so far from the region are briefly discussed.
Prevalence of Nursing Students With Background Check Findings
Authors: Peters Christopher C. , Doering Jennifer J.
Published: January 2024

Background:

Background checks (BGC) have been used in nursing education since the 2000s. Little is known about the prevalence of BGC among nursing students or how these students compare to the general population.

Method:

This retrospective study describes aggregated, de-identified BGC data from 2014–2019 in 16 large nursing programs in the United States. An independent samples t test was used to compare U.S. regional means and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) regional arrest data.

Results:

The mean percentage of nursing student BGC with findings was 3.2% (minimum .00%, maximum 13.33%, SD 2.98%). The mean prevalence of BGC findings does not significantly differ among U.S. regions. There was no significant difference between BGC results in nursing students and regional FBI arrest data.

Conclusion:

Excluding students with BGC findings has not been studied but may represent a structural barrier to diversification of the nursing profession. Additional research linking BGC findings to public protection is required.

[
J Nurs Educ
. 2024;63(1):32–37.]
A Multisite Study of a Quality Improvement Teaching Strategy to Build Competency
Authors: Vottero Beth , Altmiller Gerry , Deal Belinda , Nurse-Clarke Natasha , Rosales Marc , Walker Danielle
Published: January 2024

Background:

Quality improvement (QI) is an essential part of nursing education. Although there are robust examples of teaching strategies for QI, there is a distinct lack of research on effective strategies for teaching QI in nursing education.

Method:

This multisite study included students from six nursing programs. A treatment fidelity plan was developed and followed to ensure consistency for implementation of the study and data collection. A quasiexperimental, nonpaired, pre- and posttest study design was used to examine changes in student perspectives of QI after participating in a QI teaching strategy. Pre- and posttest questions were mapped to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing's Essentials subcompetency statements for QI.

Results:

A total of 254 pre- and 116 posttest responses were included for analysis. Significance (
p
= .05) was found at the beginning level within three questions.

Conclusion:

Findings from this study indicate beginning-level students can benefit from a competency-based QI learning activity.

[
J Nurs Educ
. 2024;63(1):38–42.]
Some matrix inequalities related to norm and singular values
Authors: Xiao Xiaoyan , Zhang Feng , Cao Yuxin , Zhang Chunwen
Published: January 2024

In this short note, we presented a new proof of a weak log-majorization inequality for normal matrices and obtained a singular value inequality related to positive semi-definite matrices. What's more, we also gave an example to show that some conditions in an existing norm inequality are necessary.
An extrapolated fixed-point optimization method for strongly convex smooth optimizations
Authors: Rakjarungkiat Duangdaw , Nimana Nimit
Published: January 2024

In this work, we focused on minimizing a strongly convex smooth function over the common fixed-point constraints. We proposed an extrapolated fixed-point optimization method, which is a modified version of the extrapolated sequential constraint method with conjugate gradient direction. We proved the convergence of the generated sequence to the unique solution to the considered problem without boundedness assumption. We also investigated some numerical experiments to underline the effectiveness and performance of the proposed method.
Martín de Garay y las fuentes geohistóricas: nuevos hallazgos, nuevas posibilidades
Authors: Bringas Gutiérrez Miguel Ángel , Vallina Rodríguez Alejandro
Published: January 2024

La reforma fiscal impulsada por Martín de Garay en 1817 tuvo como objetivo resolver los graves problemas por los que atravesaba la hacienda durante la primera etapa del reinado de Fernando VII, pero la reforma terminó siendo un rotundo fracaso. En cambio, la historiografía actual todavía no parece tener claro que este ministro liberal fuera capaz de poner en marcha una operación catastral y estadística enormemente ambiciosa en muy poco tiempo: la Estadística General del Reino, 1817-1820. Constituida por los apeos y los documentos que permitían formar los cuadernos generales de la riqueza de todos los núcleos rurales de España (menos en el País vasco y Navarra). De hecho, y a pesar del trabajo desplegado en las últimas décadas, son numerosos los autores que dudan, o incluso niegan, si estas recopilaciones estadísticas se llegaron a realizar en la práctica.
El objetivo de este trabajo es sacar por primera vez a la luz los fondos documentales, relacionados con la obra reformadora de Martín de Garay, conservados en los archivos municipales de Requena (Valencia), de Ciudad Rodrigo (Salamanca) y de Ronda (Málaga) y, con ello, contribuir a acrecentar el número de apeos y cuadernos localizados hasta el momento y a demostrar la importancia que esta documentación aporta como fuente histórica con aplicabilidad en los campos de la historia económica, la geografía histórica o la geohistoria.
La signalisation des ports dans l’Antiquité
Authors: Christiansen Jonatan
Published: January 2024

La signalisation maritime dans l’Antiquité est associée aux grands phares de l’époque hellénistique et romaine pourtant ces édifices spectaculaires et peu nombreux ne sont pas les seuls dispositifs. Une importante documentation épigraphique, iconographique et littéraire incite régulièrement à interpréter des vestiges de tours non défensives ou de plateformes à l’extrémité des jetées comme des phares antiques. La signalisation d’un port n’implique pas les mêmes aménagements que ceux employés pour la matérialisation d’une embouchure ou d’un cap. L’efficacité de la signalisation d’un port ne dépend pas de la hauteur de ces fanaux mais davantage de la précision de leur implantation. C’est le cas des tours à feux, des balises et des fanaux. Ce sont des constructions qui appartiennent au complexe portuaire et apportent une aide au marin, après l’approche des terres, dans la phase stratégique d’entrée au port. La diversité des formes et des emplacements retenus interroge sur le fonctionnement d’une activité complexe et stratégique.
Découvertes récentes à l’extrémité de la jetée méridionale du port romain de Forum Iulii (Fréjus, Var)
Authors: Excoffon Pierre
Published: January 2024

Le port romain de Fréjus est aujourd’hui totalement atterri. L’ensemble de ses structures n’est observable que lors de fouilles terrestres. En 2011, à l’occasion de la construction d’un immeuble, des éléments de la jetée méridionale, située dans le prolongement du quai sud au-delà de la Lanterne d’Auguste, ont été mis au jour dans le cadre d’une opération archéologique d’urgence. Il s’agissait de blocs découverts en position secondaire et d’une partie de l’extrémité de la jetée construite en béton de pouzzolane. Cette opération a permis de mieux comprendre l’aménagement et la forme de cette structure et d’amorcer des réflexions sur l’agencement de la plateforme située à son extrémité. Tout comme la mise au jour en 1983 d’éléments épars à l’extrémité du quai occidental, cette découverte est l’occasion d’aborder la question de l’aménagement de l’accès au port, sa monumentalisation et son aspect pratique pour l’usage du bassin portuaire et la gestion de son fonctionnement. L’aménagement de cette jetée, édifiée au sein d’un ensemble portuaire dont la chronologie relative reste très mal connue, intervient alors que le port est déjà en plein fonctionnement et paraît en lien direct avec l’évolution rapide du littoral. Cette intervention a permis également d’observer pour la première fois des parties immergées de cette structure portuaire édifiée en pleine mer et d’apporter ainsi des éléments de réflexions sur les modalités de sa construction qu’il est aujourd’hui possible de comparer avec les nombreux exemples connus dans le bassin méditerranéen antique.
Effects of Public Capital Investments on the Productivity of the United States, 1992-2022
Authors: Sloboda Brian , Sissoko Yaya
Published: January 2024

This chapter examines the productivity of the public sectors throughout the United States from 1992 through 2022. Because there is heterogeneity across states regarding public services provided, this could impact its productivity and efficiency. The services provided by the public sector have come under increased scrutiny with the ongoing reform process in recent years. In the public sector, unlike the private sector, and the information and incentives provided by these markets, performance information, particularly comparative performance measures, have been used to gauge the productivity of the public service sector. This chapter examines the productivity of the public sector across states using the standard date envelopment analysis (DEA) and efficiency measures given by the Malmquist productivity index. Then, the DEA analysis was followed by panel regression analysis.
Advancing Supply Chain Efficiency and Sustainability
Authors: Edeh Natasha Cecilia
Published: January 2024

This chapter investigates data envelopment analysis (DEA) in the context of supply chain management. DEA, a non-parametric method for assessing productive efficiency with many inputs and outputs, has considerably impacted research and practical implementation. It enables performance analysis across organizations with complicated input-output interactions. DEA provides user-friendly and customizable criterion weighting, simplifies analysis by eliminating the need for production function calculation, and delivers comprehensive efficiency measurements. This chapter examines existing research on the use of DEA in supply chains to assess present practices, recent breakthroughs, and techniques critically. This chapter addresses the central research question, “What are the latest advancements and methodologies in applying DEA to the supply chain?” The findings of this study add to the understanding of current practices at the confluence of DEA and supply chain management, which is critical in today's complex corporate context.
The Quest for Democratic Citizenship
Authors: Tshabangu Icarbord
Published: January 2024

This chapter examines notions of democracy and citizenship, the democratic models, and how some of these have manifested in practice, particularly within the African context. While there has been a wave of democratisation globally in the last half a century, this has occurred amidst fierce contestations, some militarily. Furthermore, the practice of democracy from a global standpoint, both within liberal and illiberal states, has been saddled with numerous contradictions in so far as democratic values are concerned. Drawing from varied historical literature sources and analysing contemporary practices of democracy, it is noted that despite existing contestations, contradictions, and imperfections of democracy, this political system remains the best alternative in the 21st century, especially for developing nations that still have weaker systems of governance and have a greater need for economic growth and protection of human rights. The role of citizenship education is also posited as a critical structure, necessary for an informed polity to make those who govern more accountable.
Tunisia's Struggle for Democratic Consolidation
Authors: Bag Akash , Roy Souvik , Pandey Ashutosh
Published: January 2024

The Arab Spring, the wave of protests that swept over the Middle East and North Africa in 2011, failed to impose democracy there. However, only in Tunisia did the Arab Spring result in a democratic change in 2011. Tunisia has been dealing with several difficulties since the country's democratic transition, including political unrest and terrorist assaults. This study looks at Tunisia's political growth between 2011 and 2022 to determine the chances and challenges for the country to consolidate its democracy. Using a case study approach and Samuel P. Huntington's theory of democratic consolidation, the study has identified two barriers to democratic consolidation: the democratic government's inability to deliver economic reforms and the political elite's unwillingness to work together to find solutions. Since the political elite has used Tunisia's economic woes to gain undemocratically more power, the study also explains the failure of democratic consolidation with the absence of the formation of a democratic political culture in the nation.
The Economic Freedom Fighters and Politics of Populism
Authors: Aiseng Kealeboga
Published: January 2024

This study presents a novel approach to understanding the economic freedom fighters (EFF) role in South African politics. The party has been called populist, fascist, and a threat to South Africa's democracy. This study was conducted through virtual ethnography research on the role of the EFF in South Africa's politics and presents the research findings here to understand if the EFF is merely populist, a threat to democracy, or encouraging citizens' political participation. The study's findings indicate that the EFF uses populist stances to attract supporters and voters to the party. But unlike the views of some commentators and scholars, the study presents different findings regarding the EFF's populist attitudes in the country's democracy. While some see such populist stances as a threat to democracy, the study views it as the party's advantage, among others, to encourage citizen political participation.
Organizational Ambidexterity and Its Impact on Sustainability
Authors: Martínez-Falcó Javier , Marco-Lajara Bartolomé , Sánchez-García Eduardo , Millán-Tudela Luis A. , Popescu Cristina Raluca Gh.
Published: January 2024

This study offers a pioneering exploration into the influence of organizational ambidexterity (OA) on sustainable performance (SP) within the Spanish wine sector. It further delves into the potential catalytic roles of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and knowledge management infrastructure (KMI) on these constructs. Drawing from an extensive literature review, a novel theoretical framework is proposed and empirically tested using structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) on data sourced from 202 Spanish wineries between September 2021 and January 2022. Findings reveal a robust positive correlation between OA and SP, with OA serving as a partial mediator in the CSR-SP and KMI-SP dynamics. This research not only fills a notable gap in the literature by being the first to probe the OA-SP nexus in the wine milieu but also illuminates the under-researched catalysts of OA, thereby offering a refreshed perspective on enhancing wineries' multifaceted performance.
Project Management Maturity
Authors: Gomes Jorge Vareda , Romão Mário Batista , Bento Ilércio
Published: January 2024

The objective of this chapter is to study the impact of organisational project management (OPM3) on the project performance (PP). PP performed by the organisations was assessed, based on interviews with project managers. Currently, little evidence is found in the academic literature regarding the impacts of the maturity models (MM) on the PP. The results show that the OPM3 provided a positive contribution to PP. Some of the interviewees stated that the adoption of OPM3 brought improvements at the process level, which made it possible to define in a more appropriate way, the scope, schedule, costs, and goals to perform improvements in the stakeholder's communication.
Economy, Environment, and Sustainable Development
Authors: Ulucak Recep
Published: January 2024

Economics, traditionally centered on the production of goods and utility maximization, has often undervalued the pivotal role of the environment in shaping societal welfare. The environment, as a provider of myriad resources, from non-renewable to renewable, and as a sanctuary for relaxation and natural beauty, is intrinsically linked to our economic processes. However, economic activities have progressively degraded this invaluable asset. The emergent focus on sustainability, with its dual lenses of weak and strong sustainability, offers a nuanced understanding of resource interrelations. Disciplines such as environmental economics offer market-based environmental solutions, while ecological economics posits the economy within the broader ecosystem, highlighting an inextricable bond. This chapter focuses on the harmonization of economic endeavors with ecological preservation to pave the way for genuine sustainable development.
The Contribution of Waste Management Social Enterprises to the SDGs
Authors: Calvo Sara
Published: January 2024

Waste management is a global challenge that demands innovative solutions for its effective and sustainable resolution. In recent years, the emergence of waste management social enterprises has garnered significant attention. This chapter explores how effective waste management social enterprises (WAMSEs) align with and support the SDGs, emphasizing the importance of responsible waste management in fostering sustainable development using case study examples from the Global South. Six case study organisations from Asia, Africa, and Latin America have been selected to explore the impact of these initiatives in the SDGs. What emerged from the findings is that WAMSEs' motivations, operations, and organisational strategies contribute to the SDGs in the Global South.
Systems Engineering
Authors: Zárate Alex , Huanco Analy
Published: January 2024

This chapter provides a synthesis of the key issues related to systems engineering and its contribution to the green economy and energy sustainability. It explores essential concepts in sustainable energy systems, renewable technologies, energy efficiency, and highlights global challenges in cooperation, emerging technologies, education, policy and regulations, and investment in sustainable infrastructure. Systems engineering consolidates its position as a fundamental pillar.
Green Jobs in Green Transformation Story
Authors: Alkan Buket
Published: January 2024

Governments around the world are enacting green recovery and transition programs in collaboration with international agencies. Their coordinated efforts attempt to balance economic growth with environmental preservation, emphasizing that for a sustainable and green future the green transformation is an urgent requirement. The employment component of the green transformation has significant social and economic repercussions. Depending on how prepared countries are for the transition process, skill adaptation and the creation of new job opportunities can provide socioeconomic benefits. “Green jobs” are discussed in the chapter as an important part of the transition strategy to a green economy. The chapter outlines what a “green job” is and is not, presents the connection between employment and skills, and emphasizes the relevance of green jobs in the transition process.
Exploring the Depths
Authors: Sekar Devi , Bhuvaneswari Mohanraj
Published: January 2024

Qualitative research in psychology offers a comprehensive understanding of individuals' experiences, perspectives, and emotions, providing in-depth insights into human behaviour. This approach focuses on the quality and depth of data collected by researchers through interviews, observations, and focus groups. By cultivating inclusivity and self-awareness, participants can express their perspectives, leading to a more profound understanding of human behaviour. Although it has its limitations, such as researcher bias and challenges in generalising findings, it plays a critical role in enhancing our comprehension of psychological phenomena and developing effective interventions and treatments. This chapter delves into the use of qualitative research methods, including interpretative phenomenological analysis, thematic analysis, and Foucauldian discourse analysis.
Overview of Feminist Perspectives on Sex and Gender
Authors: Mafumbate Racheal , Khumalo Thandi Fredah , Musingafi Maxwell Constantine Chando
Published: January 2024

This chapter is an overview of feminist debates on sex and gender. The chapter distinguishes between sex and gender; examines the biological determinism perspective on feminism; discusses perspectives on the socialisation process; discusses the problems with the gender / sex distinction; and examines the controversy in understanding the category women. Western feminists use gender as the explanatory model to account for women's subordination and oppression worldwide; Black and other oppressed races in the West insist that there is no way that gender can be considered outside of race and class; and sisters in Africa have taken the discussion further, taking cognisance of imperialism, colonization, and other local and global forms of stratification which lend weight to the assertion that gender cannot be abstracted from the social context and other systems of hierarchy. Because gender works in a complicated interconnection with other abusive power systems, some women enjoy more power than some men.
An Afrocentric Reflection on the Rape of Tamar in 2 Samuel 13
Authors: Amenyedzi Seyram B.
Published: January 2024

The pandemic of gender-based violence which does not seem to be curable continues to linger. Girls and women in Africa continue to experience gender-based violence in many folds including rape. In Africa, culture and religion remain major players in exacerbating the situation. Even in the church, the Bible is used as a tool to foster abuse. The chapter is an Afrocentric reflection on the biblical account of the rape case of Tamar in 2 Samuel 13. Tamar's story mirrors the realities of African girls and women who are victims of rape. Tamar's resistance gives African girls and women a voice to protest and not shield perpetrators. African cultures and the Bible are proposed as interventions for dealing with gender-based violence. A contextual, womanist, masculine, and intercultural reading of the Tamar story will enhance better ways of dealing with violence, especially in the church context. The story is analyzed through the Afrocentric-Gender Paradigm lens.
Centring African Indigenous Knowledge
Authors: Singha Ranjit
Published: January 2024

This chapter explores the Afro-feminist perspective of the significance of African indigenous knowledge in the context of women's emancipation. The recognition of gender inequities in Africa prompts a need for the incorporation of intersectionality in feminist discussions that include a wide range of cultural contexts. The chapter emphasizes the significance of intergenerational learning in preserving knowledge and empowering older women via examining power relations, colonial legacies, and the integration of Western-traditional medicine. This chapter examines the impact of indigenous community and feminist organization involvement on legislative progress, focusing on protecting indigenous women. Global connections, cross-cultural discussions, and unity facilitate the empowerment of Afro-feminism. These elements surpass geographical boundaries and incorporate indigenous traditions.
A Study of Additive Manufacturing Using 3D Printing Machines and Pens
Authors: Dasgupta Archisman , Dutta Prasenjit
Published: January 2024

3D printing (3DP), also known as additive manufacturing (AM), is a popular method used in Industry 4.0 that involves using machines and pens to create customized and complex 3D objects from a digital file by layering materials. This technology is widely used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and consumer goods for prototyping, rapid tooling, and production of end-use parts. 3DP offers companies a low-risk, low-cost, and fast way to produce prototypes, allowing them to test new products and speed up development without expensive models or specialized tools. Machines are more suitable for creating larger and more complex objects with high accuracy, while pens are better for smaller and simpler designs. Machines can be expensive and require training, while pens are more affordable and easy to use. Overall, AM with 3DP has provided new possibilities for designers and manufacturers. This chapter will further explore different printing methods, materials, advantages, limitations, software applications, potential uses, and future prospects of this technology.
Security Incidents and Security Requirements in Internet of Things (IoT) Devices
Authors: Indu Pabak , Mazumdar Nabajyoti , Bhattacharyya Souvik
Published: January 2024

The proliferation of IoT devices has revolutionized daily life, offering unmatched convenience and connectivity but also exposing substantial security vulnerabilities. This chapter delves into security incidents and requirements in IoT devices, emphasizing the need to safeguard devices and their data. It analyzes historical events like the Mirai Botnet attack, Stuxnet worm, and ransomware to highlight the consequences of inadequate security. Exploring security challenges involving CIA triad, this chapter outlines practical measures for enhancing IoT security, including secure device configurations, robust authentication, and continuous monitoring. It also examines existing regulatory frameworks and standards, such as ISO/IEC, and industry-specific guidelines. In conclusion, this chapter underscores the urgency of addressing security incidents and fulfilling security requirements in IoT devices and provides an overview of emerging trends and challenges. It serves as a persuasive call to prioritize IoT device protection to preserve user privacy and interconnected system integrity.
From Code to Care and Navigating Ethical Challenges in AI Healthcare
Authors: Dey Sourav Madhur , Dutta Pushan Kumar
Published: January 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a transformative force in the healthcare industry, offering unprecedented opportunities for improved diagnostics, patient treatment, and outcomes. However, its integration into healthcare systems has also brought to light a host of ethical concerns that require careful scrutiny. This chapter delves into the intricate nexus of ethics and AI in healthcare, shedding light on the multifaceted implications and challenges that arise. AI technologies such as machine learning (ML) and data analytics (DS) have immense potential to revolutionize healthcare. They can enhance diagnostic accuracy, enable the treatment of a larger number of patients, and improve patient outcomes. However, their implementation is not without ethical quandaries. These primarily revolve around data privacy, bias mitigation, transparency, responsibility, and patient independence. Transparency and interpretability are other essential aspects of the ethical discourse surrounding AI in healthcare.
Safety for Digital Immersive Environments and Social Economic Dynamics Based on Designing the Metaverse
Authors: Vinoth Kumar S. , Kaliappan Vishnu Kumar , Suresh A. , Suresh Kumar B. , Manikanthan S. V.
Published: January 2024

The Metaverse is a network of 3D virtual worlds that combines real-world and virtual experiences and offers ways for multimodal communication and experiences in a range of settings. The third wave of the World Wide Web revolution, known as the metaverse, is based on cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence and greater reality. Here, through an analysis of the literature and a synthesis of best practices for creating metaverse educational settings, the authors revise learning throughout the metaverse and suggest a fresh and cutting-edge theoretical framework. By doing this, they intend to show that the SED model-based computer simulation experiment method is a scientific empirical approach that has more benefits than other methods for empirical study in economics now in use. A virtual world with physics, finances, society, and governance that is close to and exists alongside reality can be created using the digital twin approach. The SED model may be fully utilized to create a market and a virtual financial system.
Creating a Culture of Care
Authors: Schutte Megan X.
Published: January 2024

Research on LGBTQIA+ students in higher education has grown in recent decades, but that research has largely not resulted in additional support for students who identify as transgender or under the gender nonconforming umbrella. Also, most research has traditionally focused on four-year institutions. This chapter, therefore, focuses on trans-spectrum community college students and what they feel administration, faculty, and staff can do to help support and promote this population of students on campus.
Utilization of Institutional Resources by Queer Latinx Men at Hispanic Serving Institutions
Authors: Herridge Andrew S.
Published: January 2024

As new generations of students enroll in institutions of higher education, administrators are seeing an increase in the acceptance of queer students and the expectation for inclusive policies and services. This chapter explores how queer Latinx men enrolled at Hispanic serving institutions utilize institutional resources. Institutional resources queer Latinx men utilized at Hispanic serving institutions consisted of being involved with the institutional LGBTQIA support services, participating in student organizations, and a desire for increased representation. The results of this study provide insight into the ways in which Hispanic serving institutions can better support queer Latinx men.
Sri Lankan Anglophone Literature as a Mode for Dialogue and Reconciliation in the Portrayal of War in Sri Lanka (1983-2009)
Authors: Bamunusinghe S. , Senaratne C. D.
Published: January 2024

From ancient times, war has played a main role in the lives of people and has been a major theme for literature, history, and as well as for political discourses. The period between 1983-2009 marks the war that took place in Sri Lankan history, which impacted the country politically, culturally, and economically. The realms of Sri Lankan English, Sinhala, and Tamil literature also went through change during this period, and many fiction, poems, dramas, and films were composed in response to the war both during and in its aftermath. The Sri Lankan Anglophone writers: residential authors as well as authors of the diaspora portray the war through their literary compositions. This critical literature review examines the role Anglophone literature plays as a mode for dialogue and reconciliation in the portrayal of war. Above ten studies conducted on Sri Lankan Anglophone literature and its role in portraying war published between 1992 and 2020 were reviewed. The findings of the review indicate that many scholars consider Sri Lankan Anglophone literature as a platform that plays a significant role as a mode for dialogue and reconciliation while some consider it as literature composed by the English-speaking class for its own class. This review concludes that the Sri Lankan Anglophone literature plays a substantial role as a medium for dialogue and reconciliation in the portrayal of war in Sri Lanka (1989-2003).
The Identification of Landslide Risk-Prone Areas in the Imbulpe Divisional Secretariat in Sri Lanka: A GIS-Based Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis
Authors: Chinthaka M. L. C. , Amaraweera P. H. , Wijesinghe W. M. D. C.
Published: January 2024

Landslides can be identified as a prominent natural hazard that causes significant loss of life and property damage in many parts of the world and Sri Lanka. Planning experts, local governments, and decision-makers can benefit greatly from the identification of landslides and the creation of landslide susceptibility maps. Accurate landslide susceptibility maps are essential to minimize the loss of life and property. The landslide risk zones in any area can be plotted using GIS-based MCDA techniques that integrate the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Weighted Linear Combination (WLC) functions in ArcMap. This study attempted to develop a multi-criteria decision analysis for the appraisal of landslide risk zones in the Imbulpe DSD in Rathnapura District. To analyze the danger of landslides, MCDA was used in conjunction with GIS as a spatial decision-making tool. Slope, drainage pattern, soil type, geology, land use, and rainfall pattern were the six factors used in the study. Landslide risk maps were produced based on weighted techniques such as Analytic Hierarchy Process and Weighted Linear Combination. The slope area significantly affects the likelihood of a landslide. Results revealed that landslides were spreading in a manner that extended toward the eastern section of the study area. Because there are no good locations to build houses in the study area, a huge number of individuals tend to live in unprotected areas. The majority of the landslides in the area occurred during May, October, and November because those months received heavy rainfall. As remedial actions, it can be proposed to displace people living under landslide risk in the northeast and northwest slope areas to suitable protected areas.
Lung Epithelial Regnase-1 Dampens Local Immune Response but Does Not Worsen Susceptibility to Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Lin Becky , Fan Li , Jackson Shaterra , Matunis Aidan R , Lou Dequan , Chen Kong , Trevejo-Nuñez Giraldina
Published: January 2024

Klebsiella pneumoniae (KP) presents a global health threat, leading to significant morbidity and mortality due to its multidrug-resistant profile and the limited availability of therapeutic options. To eliminate KP lung infection, the host initiates a robust inflammatory response. One of the host’s mechanisms for mitigating excessive inflammation involves the RNA-binding protein regnase-1 (Reg1, MCPIP1, or ZC3H12A). Reg1 has an RNA binding domain that recognizes stem-loop structures in the 3′ untranslated region of various proinflammatory transcripts, leading to mRNA decay. However, excessive suppression of inflammation by Reg1 results in suboptimal KP control. Reg1 deficiency within the nonhematopoietic compartment confers resistance to KP in the lung. Given that lung epithelium is crucial for KP resistance, we hypothesized that selective deletion of Reg1 in lung epithelial cells might enhance proinflammatory signals, leading to a better control of KP. Our transcriptomic analysis of epithelial cells in KP-infected wild-type mice revealed the presence of three distinct alveolar type 2 cell (AT2) subpopulations (conventional, inflammatory, and cycling) and enrichment of Reg1 in inflammatory AT2 cells. We conditionally deleted Reg1 in lung AT2 cells (ΔReg1), which amplified the local inflammatory response in the lung and increased macrophage cell numbers compared with controls. However, when ΔReg1 mice were subjected to KP infection, there were no significant differences in bacterial burden or survival compared with controls. These findings suggest that the local inflammatory response enhanced by Reg1 deletion in AT2 cells is insufficient to control KP infection.
Posterior circulation lesions are more frequently associated with early seizures after a stroke
Authors: Shala Argjend , Blyta Afrim , Shala Nexhmedin , Boshnjaku Dren , Ibrahimi Pranvera , Jashari Fisnik
Published: January 2024

Background. Early seizures (ES) following stroke are prevalent among the elderly population, representing the most common type of acquired seizures. This study aimed to determine the incidence of ES and investigate potential associations with various clinical and radiological factors. Materials and Methods. 260 stroke patients (mean age 72±13.2, 48.5% females) were prospectively enrolled and followed. Baseline demographic data, clinical data, stroke subtype, ES occurrence, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores, and Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECT) were collected and analyzed. Results. ES was observed in 11.6% of patients with ischemic stroke compared to 7.1% among patients with hemorrhagic stroke. ES occurred more frequently in those with posterior circulation stroke (18.5% vs. 7.1%, P=0.008) and those with NIHSS >15 (19.4% vs. 8.4%, P=0.04). In a logistic regression analysis that adjusted for vascular risk factors and NIHSS, posterior circulation stroke remained significantly associated with ES, with an odds ratio of 3.14 (95% CI 1.20 to 7.73, P=0.012). Conclusions. This study revealed that ES following stroke is more common in patients with posterior circulation lesions. These findings emphasize the need for further investigation into additional factors that may influence ES occurrence and its impact on stroke management and patient outcomes.
Knowledge and awareness of autism spectrum disorder among Libyans
Authors: Mustafa Ariej M. , Grifa Dhiba , Shebani Afaf , Alharabi Salah , Alnajjar Khalid
Published: January 2024

Background:  Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by the presence of delayed or defective development before the age of three years, as well as behavioral difficulties in social communication and interaction.
Objective: To evaluate ASD knowledge and awareness, as well as ASD information sources in a sample of the Libyan general population, and to explore factors that could be associated with the knowledge and awareness.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out between 22 March and 13 August 2022 using a self-administered questionnaire.
Results: Out of 2195 participants, 48.9% were females and 51.1% were males. Three-quarters of the participants (74.8%) presented a low level of knowledge. Of those whose source of knowledge of autism was social media, 78.9% had a low level of knowledge. However, 57.9% of the participants showed a good level of awareness of autism symptoms and signs.
Conclusion: The participants had a limited understanding of the causes and characteristics of ASD. Raising community awareness of the causes and characteristics of ASD is a priority.
Defense mechanisms are associated with mental health symptoms across six countries
Authors: Békés Vera , Starrs Claire J. , Perry J. Christopher , Prout Tracy A. , Conversano Ciro , Di Giuseppe Mariagrazia
Published: January 2024

Defense mechanisms are adaptative processes that are related to mental health and psychological functioning and may play an important role in adaptation to distress, as well as in mental health interventions. The present study aimed to compare the use of defense mechanisms and their relationship to mental health symptoms across six countries. In a large-scale descriptive study, we collected data from community- based individuals (N=19,860) in the United States, Australia, Canada, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom about the use of defense mechanisms and experienced mental health symptoms during the early phase of the pandemic. We found that the use of defense mechanism categories was similar across countries. Moreover, lower defensive functioning, specifically, neurotic and immature defenses were related to experiencing higher distress across countries, whereas mature defenses were generally inversely related to symptoms. Furthermore, these findings were relatively similar across the six countries. Cross-cultural research on defense mechanisms and mental health has important clinical implications. Our results are consistent with the goal of promoting more adaptive defensive functioning to increase psychological well-being and mitigate the detrimental impact of situational stress
Sudden ventricular fibrillation due to absence of pericardium in left upper lobectomy -a case report-
Authors: Wang Guo-Cao , Li Xi-Rong , Huang Ning , Tian Hai-Tao
Published: January 2024

Background: Congenital absence of the pericardium (CAP) is a rare cardiac abnormality. As pericardial defects are usually asymptomatic, most cases are diagnosed during surgery or on autopsy. The patient in this case was found to have CAP during thoracoscope.Case: We present the unusual case of a 69-year-old patient with CAP who experienced sudden ventricular arrhythmia and developed ventricular fibrillation during left upper lobectomy. Surgical operations, the lateral decubitus position, and other external stimuli may be important risk factors for ventricular fibrillation. The patient regained sinus rhythm soon after intrathoracic cardiac compression and pharmacological treatment, including lidocaine spray (2%, 10 ml) administered to the heart surface. The surgery was then completed without any additional instances of ventricular arrhythmia.Conclusions: Patients with CAP are more susceptible to cardiac-related adverse events during thoracotomy or thoracoscopy. Treatment of ventricular arrhythmias that occur during lung resection in patients with CAP should be emphasized.