bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crecimiento económico y políticas para la inclusión social en Euskadi
Authors:   SIIS Servicio de Información e Investigación Social, Zalakain Hernández Joseba
Published: January 2025

El modelo vasco de garantía de ingresos ha sido capaz de contener el crecimiento de la pobreza y de la desigualdad en Euskadi, sin comprometer la competitividad y la capacidad de generación de empleo de la economía vasca y sin generar un efecto adicional de atracción de población en situación de necesidad. De hecho, el sistema vasco de prestaciones es uno de los factores que explican la mejor posición socioeconómica comparada de esta comunidad. Este artículo describe las principales características del sistema vasco de garantía de ingresos e inclusión social, tanto desde el punto de vista de su alcance como de sus resultados, y analiza la relación que existe entre crecimiento económico, modelo productivo y desigualdad en Euskadi.
The labour market, income per capita and welfare in Europe: An overview of the last two decades
Authors:   Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Sebastián Lago Raquel
Published: January 2025

Using PWT10 and EU-SILC, we analyse the relationship between income per capita, wage inequality and welfare for 30 European countries over the period 2004-2019. We found that there is a great divergence between European countries in terms of labour productivity, although this variable is strongly (positively) related to the average salary of the different European economies. Spain has experienced one of the largest increases in wage inequality in the last two decades, and the functioning of the labour market is not the only factor that explains this evolution in the short term. The countries with the highest income per capita have increased their well-being the most, while in Spain this variable has barely changed. Gains in the mean wage have been offset by rising wage inequality. In addition to being far from the labour productivity figures of our more developed neighbours, we have a convergence problem in wage inequality.
Crecimiento económico y distribución del bienestar en España en el último medio siglo
Authors:   EQUALITAS, Ayala Cañón Luis , Cantó Sánchez Olga ,   EQUALITAS
Published: January 2025

El objetivo de este trabajo es presentar un análisis de la relación entre crecimiento económico y distribución del bienestar en España en el último medio siglo. Con este fin se estudia la relación entre ciclo económico y desigualdad de ingresos en España y se identifican los principales cambios en la estructura distributiva por clases sociales y sus consecuencias sobre la cohesión social. Posteriormente se profundiza en el estudio de la población más desfavorecida atendiendo a la evolución de la cronicidad de la pobreza económica, uno de los principales determinantes de la igualdad de oportunidades futura.
Actividades de offshoring de I+D y resultado innovador: ¿Se benefician más las empresas de servicios intensivas en conocimiento?
Authors:   Universidad de Murcia, Callado Muñoz Francisco José , Fernández Olmos Marta ,   Universidad de Zaragoza, Utrero González Natalia María ,   Universidad Politécnica de Valencia
Published: January 2025

La relación entre las actividades de offshoring y el resultado innovador en las empresas de servicios intensivas en conocimiento (KIBs) en comparación con el resto de empresas que no son KIBs sigue siendo un área de estudio poco analizada. Se ofrecen dos resultados importantes. En primer lugar, la actividad de offshoring es una importante fuente de innovación para todas las empresas. En segundo lugar, la relación offshoring-innovación difiere significativamente entre los dos grupos de empresas, siendo más positiva para las empresas no KIB. La actividad de offshoring es una fuente importante de innovación para las empresas, pero especialmente para las empresas que no pertenecen a KIB. Por lo tanto, nuestro trabajo contribuye al tema de offshoring-resultado innovador con nuevos conocimientos y resultados para las KIBs. Identifica qué empresas, KIBs o no KIBs, son las mejores para transformar las actividades de offshoring en resultados innovadores. Además, ayuda a descubrir la simultaneidad y las relaciones causales entre la innovación de productos y procesos, cuestiones que no se han considerado previamente en la literatura sobre las actividades de offshoring en las KIBs.
¿Apertura al mercado exterior de los KIBS peruanos? Un análisis desde la percepción de sus directores ejecutivos
Authors:   Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú, Seclen Luna Jean Pierre , Moya Fernández Pablo ,   Universidad de Granada
Published: January 2025

En la actual economía globalizada, la literatura empírica sobre los servicios intensivos en conocimiento (KIBS) destaca el importante papel que tienen estos servicios en el desarrollo de las empresas. A pesar de ello, aún hacen falta más estudios que ayuden a comprender este fenómeno, no solo en los países desarrollados, sino también en los países en desarrollo. El propósito de esta investigación es conocer si existe una relación positiva entre la innovación que realizan los KIBS, el nivel de estudios de sus trabajadores, los agentes de su cadena de suministro y la apertura al mercado exterior de sus operaciones, en base a una muestra de 297 KIBS de Perú. A través del método OPROBIT, los resultados evidencian que la innovación organizacional y en marketing, el nivel de estudios superiores de sus trabajadores y las relaciones con los clientes son determinantes para la internacionalización de los KIBS.
El marco institucional para la evaluación de políticas públicas en España
Authors:   FEDEA, de la Fuente Moreno Angel , Novales Cinca Alfonso ,   UCM
Published: January 2025

El objetivo de este trabajo es presentar las razones por las que es necesario evaluar las políticas públicas, tanto ex-ante como ex-post, y las principales directrices que han de guiar tal evaluación. En este sentido hemos repasado la experiencia española en este ámbito. Así comenzamos considerando algunos principios generales que debe respetar cualquier sistema riguroso de evaluación de políticas públicas, con especial atención a la independencia del órgano evaluador. Posteriormente, revisamos los fracasados intentos pasados de instaurar una cultura de evaluación en España. Analizamos en detalle y valoramos el anteproyecto que culminó en la ley de Institucionalización de la Evaluación de las Políticas Públicas (Ley 27/2022, de 20 de diciembre). Concluimos con algunas propuestas para mejorar la evaluación de políticas públicas en España.
Evaluación formativa y políticas regionales de innovación transformadoras. El caso de la Agenda Compartida del Bages
Authors:   INGENIO (CSIC-UPV), Boni Aristizabal Alejandra , Velasco Malaver Diana ,   INGENIO, Acebillo Baqué Míriam ,   INGENIO (CSIC-UPV), Sort García M. Lluïsa ,   Generalitat de Catalunya, Molas Gallart Jordi ,   INGENIO, Fernández Sirera Tatiana ,   Generalitat de Catalunya
Published: January 2025

Este artículo caracteriza la propuesta de evaluación formativa desarrollada en el marco del Consorcio de Políticas de Innovación Transformativa (TIPC) y su aplicación a un caso de política de innovación transformativa denominada Agendas Compartidas (Catalunya). Estas son ejemplos de acción colectiva organizada alrededor de un reto común de carácter social y ambiental. En particular, se aborda el caso de la Agenda Compartida en el sector de a salud, en la comarca del Bages. Desde el mes de julio de 2021 hasta diciembre de 2022, un equipo del Instituto de investigación Ingenio (CSIC-UPV) ha colaborado estrechamente con personas de la Agenda Compartida del Bages para cocrear una Teoría de Cambio y un plan de monitoreo, evaluación y aprendizaje. En el artículo se describe el proceso seguido, algunos de los resultados conseguidos, y se reflexiona sobre las implicaciones de aplicar procesos de evaluación formativa en el marco de las transiciones sociotécnicas hacia la sostenibilidad social y ambiental.
Ekonomia Sozial eta Solidarioaren txertaketa EAEko eskualdeetako garapen-estrategietan: Ikuspegi orokor bat
Authors:   UPV/EHU, Arrillaga Márquez Pablo , Exezarreta Etxarri Enekoitz ,   UPV/EHU, Bengoetxea Alkorta Aitor ,   UPV/EHU
Published: January 2025

Gaurkotasunak dakarren erronka eko-sozialei aurre egiteko, estrategia berritzaileak beharrezkoak dira erregioak, eskualdeak, udalerriak etab. bezalako Estatuz azpiko eremuetan aplikatzeko. Ekonomia Sozial eta Solidarioak erronka horiek gainditzeko duen potentzialtasuna aintzat hartuta, artikulu honen bitartez jakin nahi da nola eta noraino txertatu den Ekonomia Sozial eta Solidarioa EAEko eskualdeetako garapen-estrategietan. Beraz, euskal garapen agentziek Ekonomia Sozial eta Solidarioarekiko duten pertzepzioa, harremanak eta integratzeko modua aztertuz, egungo errealitatearen irudi fidela emango da, inplikatutako eragileen irakaspen, eztabaida eta gogoetetatik abiatuta.
SÍFILIS GESTACIONAL NO PARÁ: DETERMINANTES SOCIODEMOGRÁFICOS E EPIDEMIOLOGIA
Authors: Guerra Andressa da Silva , Paiva Daniele Socorro de Brito Souza
Published: January 2025

Introdução: Apesar dos esforços para combater a sífilis gestacional, altas taxas da doença persistem no Brasil, com distribuição heterogênea entre os estados. O Pará apresenta desafios únicos devido às características sociodemográficas, que dificultam o controle efetivo da doença. Objetivo: Analisar as determinantes sociodemográficas e o perfil epidemiológico da sífilis gestacional no Pará. Métodos: Estudo transversal descritivo com dados do SINAN, abrangendo 2019 a 2023, utilizando informações sociodemográficas e epidemiológicas da região. A prevalência foi calculada com base no Censo Demográfico de 2022 do IBGE. Resultados: Foram registrados 12.541 casos de sífilis gestacional no Pará. A maior prevalência foi entre mulheres de 20 a 39 anos (70,4%), etnia parda (80,0%) e com ensino fundamental completo (37,5%). Observou-se falha significativa na adesão aos testes treponêmicos recomendados, com 18,5% das gestantes não realizando ou não tendo acesso a esses testes. A maioria dos casos foi diagnosticada na fase primária (41,7%), seguida pela fase latente (15,8%). Geograficamente, a região metropolitana I concentrou 25,5% dos casos, enquanto Marajó I teve apenas 2,4%. Conclusão: A sífilis gestacional no Pará afeta principalmente mulheres jovens, de etnia parda e com baixo nível educacional, destacando a necessidade de intervenções direcionadas a esses grupos. O acesso insuficiente aos testes recomendados é um problema crítico, assim como a necessidade de estratégias de saúde pública adaptadas às áreas urbanas e rurais. Políticas eficazes e vigilância epidemiológica contínua são fundamentais para reduzir as taxas de sífilis gestacional e mitigar seus impactos na saúde materno-infantil.
A IMPORTÂNCIA DAS TECNOLOGIAS DIGITAIS NA CONSTRUÇÃO DE UMA POSTURA LETIVA INCLUSIVA
Authors: Baptista Alessandra Ribeiro , Pereira Juliana Francisca Rodrigues
Published: January 2025

Neste Artigo, estudou-se a importância das tecnologias digitais na construção de uma postura letiva inclusiva. Na problemática, buscou-se determinar até que ponto é importante o uso de tecnologias digitais para a construção de uma postura letiva inclusiva. Nesta perspectiva, o principal objetivo aqui foi analisar a importância das tecnologias digitais na construção de uma postura letiva inclusiva, considerando suas contribuições para a mentalidade educacional de melhor qualidade. Como metodologia, o estudo envolve revisão integrativa, visando o entendimento pormenorizado da problemática investigada. Na análise, observou-se que as tecnologias digitais oferecem recursos adaptáveis às necessidades dos alunos, possibilitando um aprendizado personalizado. , superam barreiras geográficas e temporais, facilitando o acesso à educação de qualidade. Favorecem a interação e a colaboração entre os alunos, promovendo um ambiente de aprendizagem democrático e participativo. Como sugestão para futuras pesquisas, recomenda-se investigar os impactos das tecnologias digitais na formação continuada de educadores e na inclusão de grupos marginalizados.
Public Service Mall as a Solution or New Challenge? Case Study of Public Service Innovation in Sinjai Regency, Indonesia
Authors: . Megawati , Ahmad Badu , Rusdi Muhammad
Published: January 2025

Innovation in public services is needed to improve efficiency, transparency, and public satisfaction. This study aims to analyze the implementation of innovation in the Public Service Mall (MPP) of Sinjai Regency, Indonesia, based on five innovation typologies, namely products/services, service processes, service methods, policies, and systems. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach with data collection techniques through interviews, observations, and documentation studies. The study resultsindicate that product innovation in MPP Sinjai includes service digitalization, such as mobile applications, technology-based queuing systems, and interactive kiosks, making it easier for the public to access public services while increasing convenience with additional facilities. In terms of process, workflow digitalization has succeeded in increasing efficiency and transparency. In terms of service methods, the one-stop service approach allows the integration of various public services in one location, while electronic applications expand the reach of services. Innovative policies support transparency and inclusivity, ensuring access for vulnerable groups. The success of system innovation is reflected in the integration of services between agencies through digital technology that accelerates workflow and increases public participation. However, interagency coordination and organizational cultural barriers still require further attention. Future research could explore the impact of these innovations on citizen satisfaction, strategies to address the digital divide, and comparative studies with MPPs in other regions to understand best practices and similar challenges
Understanding and Overcoming the Epidemic of Burnout in the Modern Workplace
Authors: Westover Jonathan
Published: January 2025

The article explores how workplace burnout has become normalized in today's always-on work culture, with factors like work intensification, constant connectivity, and duty-based workplace culture contributing to this normalization. It outlines key signs that burnout has taken hold, both at the individual and organizational levels. To address this issue, the article proposes practical solutions for leaders, including fostering results-oriented work environments, championing work-life integration, training managers in empathic communication, institutionalizing collective work recovery, measuring and monitoring work engagement, and rewarding sustainable practices. The article concludes that while burnout may seem expected in today's work climate, it is not inevitable, and leaders can take proactive steps to prevent burnout from becoming the entrenched standard experience in their organizations.
Audit Manajemen Sebagai Kontrol Terhadap Efektivitas Fungsi Sumber Daya Manusia (Studi Pada PT. Bumi Sarana Beton)
Authors: Ananda Fitria , Susanto Idil Rakhmat , Arizah Ainun
Published: January 2025

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis implementasi audit manajemen dalam menilai fungsi sumberdaya manusia (SDM) pada PT. Bumi Sarana Beton. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah metode kualitatif dengan pendekatan deskriptif. Informan dalam penelitian ini adalah top management team perusahaan yang memiliki relevansi dengan fokus analisis. Metode pengumpulan data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode observasi, wawancara dan dokumentasi. Penelitian ini menggunakan data primer yang diperoleh secara langsung dari informan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa diantara sepuluh fungsi SDM yang dianalisis terdapat delapan fungsi SDM sudah berjalan efektif yaitu, rekrutmen, pelatihan dan pengembangan karyawan, perencanaan dan pengembangan karir, penilaian kinerja karyawan, kompensasi dan balas jasa, hubungan ketenagakerjaan, keselamatan dan kesehatan kerja karyawan, dan kreativitas karyawan. Sedangkan dua fungsi SDM yang belum dilakukan secara efektif oleh perusahaan yaitu perencanaan sumber daya manusia dan seleksi dan penempatan sumber daya manusia. Penelitian ini berkontribusi terhadap pentingnya perusahaan dalam melakukan pengelolaan fungsi SDM dalam mendukung jalannya aktivitas bisnis. Penelitian ini juga memberikan tambahan wawasan literatur tentang pengembangan penelitian yang memfokuskan analisis pada pengelolan SDM pada perusahaan.
Selections on domestic grape pests
Authors: Hágen András , Sümegi Pál
Published: January 2025

Climate fluctuation has turned into climate change in the last 10-20 years, the results of which can be seen in extreme weather events. From a climatic point of view, our country is divided into three sub-zones, of which the first sub-zone is warm-temperate or Mediterranean, the second sub-zone is medium-temperate, while the third sub-zone is cold-temperate. So it is essential to monitor the climate changes of these subzones in the future. Since the transformation of the flora requires a relatively long time, witch these pest insects world does not, therefore the change in the climate of our country is already noticeable, which is connected with the completion of globalized networks and the arrival of insects in a new environment. Such new damage recipients in grape culture are the green wandering bug (Nezera viridula LINNAEUS 1758), the american grape cicada (Scaphoideus titanus BALL 1932), the snake-mining vine moth (Phyllocnistis vitegenella CLEMENS 1859), the grape-mining bright moth (Antispila oinophylla VAN NIENKERKEN & WAGNER 2012) and the small glow moth (Holocacista rivillei STAINTON 1855). Two of these are interesting because of global climate change, two are interesting because of globalized trade, and one is interesting partly because of trade and partly because of climate change.
Effect of precipitation on wheat (Triticum aestivum), maize (Zea mays), and sunflower (Helianthus annuus) yields in the district of Szentes
Authors: Szám Dorottya , Keve Gábor , Koch Dániel , Hetesi Zsolt
Published: January 2025

Hungary's three most important arable crops are wheat, maize, and sunflower. These crops have the largest area under cultivation. In our study, we compared the average yields of a 200-ha farm on the outskirts of Szentes city with variations in rainfall conditions. We have shown that the amount of rainfall during the growing season affected the yield averages of wheat and maize and their prices on the world market. Yields of drought-sensitive maize, which prefers humid conditions, were most dependent on rainfall. However, rainfall also proved to be a significant factor in wheat yield averages. Sunflower yield averages did not correlate with rainfall, which may be because water demand is highly dependent on the phenological stage. Therefore, a good rainfall distribution over time is also important for this crop. Changes in rainfall patterns due to climate change do not favor any crop. This is because climate change is reflected in a linear trend in annual rainfall amounts and greater rainfall variability over time and space.
Taxpayer’s attitude and tax compliance among small income businesses in Uganda’s urban councils: case study Kampala Capital City Authority-central division
Authors:   ,   Uganda Martyrs University, Nangayi Masaba Peter
Published: January 2025

The study examined Taxpayer’s Attitude and Tax Compliance in Urban Councils, Uganda. Case Study: Kampala Capital City Authority-Central Division. The study was underpinned by Psychology theories of tax compliance. The objectives were; To assess the relationship between perception of tax payers and tax compliance among small income businesses in Kampala Capital City Authority, to establish the relationship between the social norms of tax payers and tax compliance among small income businesses in Kampala Capital City Authority, to establish the relationship between taxpayers’ knowledge and tax compliance among small income businesses in Kampala Capital City Authority. The study population was 122 where a sample size of 120 was selected for the study. Out of these, 86 responded making a response rate of 71.66%. Data was collected using the questionnaire, and documentary review. The findings of the study revealed that there is a positive weak and insignificant relationship between Perception and tax compliance. Social norms have a significant positive relationship with tax compliance and tax knowledge had a significant positive relationship with tax compliance. The study concluded that perception has a weak positive relationship with tax compliance, it was also concluded that social norms and tax knowledge have a positive significant relationship with tax compliance. The study recommends that Uganda Revenue Authority, KCCA and partner bodies should establish a harmonious working relationship with all stakeholders and vigorous public relations to reverse the negative image of the institutions and there should be massive sensitization programs to increase awareness, educate the public and remind them that they are partners, as opposed to mere subjects forced to pay taxes.
Financial literacy and performance of savings And internal Lending communities (silcs) in Kamuli District, Uganda
Authors:   ,   Uganda Martyrs University, Baguma David
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of financial literacy on the performance of savings and internal lending communities (SILCs) in Kamuli District in Uganda. The objectives of the study were; to examine the effects of savings literacy on performance of (SILCs) s; to assess the influence of financial planning literacy on the performance of (SILCs); and to examine the relationship between credit management literacy and performance of (SILCs). Using both the quantitative and qualitative approaches, the researcher adopted a case study design using a questionnaire survey on a sample of 230 respondents. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive and inferential analyses respectively. Specifically, descriptive statistics included frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviations. Inferential analyses included correlation and multiple regressions which were used to test the hypotheses. Hence, the main findings were that: savings literacy had appositive significant effect on performance of savings SILCs; financial planning literacy had appositive significant effect on performance of SILCs while credit management literacy had a positive but insignificant effect on performance of SILCs. It was therefore concluded that savings literacy was the most probable prerequisite for the performance of (SILCs); financial planning literacy was a priority in the requirements for the performance of (SILCs); and credit management literacy was not the most important prerequisite for the performance of (SILCs). Hence, the following recommendations were made in order to enhance performance of (SILCs). First, the government, management and stakeholders of credit organisations such as SILCs should ensure that in promoting savings literacy is their primary target in their financial literacy campaigns. Second, the government, management and stakeholders of credit organisations such as SILCs should make financial planning literacy a priority in their financial literacy programmes. Third, in the promotion of financial literacy, the government, management and stakeholders of credit organisations such as SILCs should not over emphasise credit management literacy of other financial literacy programmes. Therefore, financial literacy is important for the performance of savings and internal lending communities.
Dossier thématique : "Knowledge Production in Times of Fragility: An Overview of Syrian Art Production over the Last Decade" – Introduction
Authors: ALKAFRI Abdullah
Published: January 2025

Speaking of Pierre Bourdieu, John Lechte says, “Given the complexity that characterizes Bourdieu’s work, there is always a risk of misunderstanding him. It is therefore necessary to read his complete works with care - the same care that he himself took with his writings”. We begin with this quote to emphasize that the foundations of knowledge production, when approached from a sociological perspective, require studying complex conditions and determinants. These are a prerequisite for learning, recognition and research. Without them, learning can be misunderstood or misinterpreted, especially as knowledge production always takes place in a complex and complicated world that takes into account the “dominant context”, or even the dominant contexts. Although Lechte is referring to individual works in this sentence, he highlights the necessity of starting from the product itself as the basis for knowledge production, an approach that has always been essential to avoid the imposition of an analysis or an intrusive approach.
Zero Degree Cinema Documenting the Syrian Uprising, and the Utopia of Cinema
Authors: OMAREEN Zaher
Published: January 2025

This research investigates “Zero Degree Cinema” in the 2011 Syrian uprising, focusing on how low-resolution imagery, handheld filming, and ambient sound contribute to the formation of a distinctive audiovisual identity in documentary cinema. By employing theoretical frameworks from Roland Barthes, John Ellis, and Hito Steyerl, the study contextualizes Syrian protest videos within the broader landscape of documentary film movements. It reveals the impact of spontaneous, citizen-led documentation in conflict zones and examines how experiences of fear and mortality inform new artistic characteristics in this genre. The findings highlight the innovative use of technology and aesthetics in capturing the immediacy of the uprising, suggesting that these elements not only redefine documentary practices but also challenge conventional narratives surrounding conflict and representation. Ultimately, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of how audiovisual materials can reflect and influence social movements, particularly in contexts marked by crisis and upheaval.
Estrategia de promoción de inversiones mineras y la sostenibilidad del sector minero, Perú - 2024
Authors: Pineda Terreros José Armando
Published: January 2025

Para alcanzar la meta mundial del Net Zero al 2050, se va a requerir minerales para las tecnologías de energías renovables; Perú es un importante país minero, sin embargo, en los últimos años se han afectado gravemente varios proyectos de inversión minera asociadas a una falta de voluntad política, trabas y excesos de permisos impuestas por el gobierno, los conflictos socio ambientales y otros. El objetivo es proponer una estrategia de promoción de inversiones mineras y la sostenibilidad del sector minero peruano; como materiales y método, se basa en consolidar las lecciones aprendidas ejecutadas (1990 - 2023); y como resultado, se presenta la estrategia de promoción de inversiones en minería junto al índice de sostenibilidad del sector minero (issm) con valoración de 62% al cierre del 2023 (calificación media y decreciente), dando lugar a conclusiones y recomendaciones para aprovechar las fortalezas y oportunidades de mayor precio internacional y demanda de minerales que el mundo va a requerir en los próximos años para impulsar las energías limpias y renovables, retomando la promoción de inversiones mineras y la sostenibilidad del sector minero peruano, con una participación proactiva del estado y los actores involucrados.
Implementation and Challenges of Zero Trust Architecture in Network Security
Authors: - Sabeeruddin shaik
Published: January 2025

The changing cybersecurity landscape requires creative frameworks to combat advanced threats. Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) represents a fundamental transformation from conventional perimeter-based security frameworks by implementing the principles of "never trust, always verify." This study examines the deployment of ZTA, its challenges, applications, and its effect on network security. This paper emphasizes ZTA's efficiency in addressing insider threats and lateral movement and improving data protection through an extensive examination of the literature before 2021. The report finishes with observations regarding ZTA's potential and suggestions for future integration.
BARRIERS AGAINST IMPLEMENTING AND MANAGING QUALITY IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY OF PAKISTAN
Authors: Ahsan Ali
Published: January 2025

This research paper presents major barriers to implement quality in IT sector of Pakistan. The paper not only explores (exploration w.r.t quality management covering discussion like what is done, what is not done, what are the loopholes, what must be done and / or what must not be done), but also presents detailed explanation of the main highlights by performing necessary qualitative analysis. In addition to exploration and explanation of barriers (the paper specifically talks of barriers concerning behavior, management and culture) to quality within IT sector of Pakistan, the paper also explains all the important issues arising due to the deprived quality management. As a result of detailed analysis performed, the paper finally identifies important remedies for revitalization of quality management function as recommendations. Mainly, exploration, explanation and analysis of reasons and remedial actions are focused. Discussion and analysis is limited to behavioral, cultural and managerial perspective.
DATA ANALYSIS OF THE RESULTS SUBMITTED IN THE PROFICIENCY TEST OF IAEA-CU-2006-06 (ANCIENT CHINESE CERAMIC) â€“ MORE DATA INPUT USING K0-INAA
Authors: Wasim M. , Arif M. , Zaidi J. H. , Daud M.
Published: January 2025

In the first part of this paper, the data submitted in the proficiency test (PT) conducted under the IAEA co-ordinated research project has been statistically evaluated. The data contains elemental concentrations determined in the IAEACU-2006-06 (ancient Chinese ceramic) powder by different laboratories using various analytical techniques. The analysis has been performed by using relative deviation and relative standard deviation. The use of rescaled sum of zscore, sum of square of z-score and principal component analysis has been suggested to determine the overall laboratory performance. The second part of the paper provides elemental concentrations of four elements (Eu, Lu, Sr and Zr) determined by our laboratory by k0-INAA. Finally, principal component analysis has been applied to get interlaboratories patterns on the scores plot. The overall analysis reveals that INAA produces results with high accuracy and precision and with good sensitivity for a large number of elements.
INVESTIGATION OF PHASES DEVELOPED IN Bi4Ti3O12 SYSTEM BY THERMAL AND ANALYTICAL TECHNIQUES
Authors: Naz S. , Shahzad M. , Qureshi A. H. , Waqas H. , Hussain N. , Saeed K. , Ali L.
Published: January 2025

Bismuth titanate (Bi4Ti3O12) powders were prepared by conventional mixed oxide method using oxide mixture i.e. bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) and titanium oxide (TiO3). The mixed powders were ball milled for different times (8, 16, and 24h). The phase formation was investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and results revealed that milled powder was mainly consisted of phases Bi2O3, TiO2 and small amount corresponded to Bi4Ti3O12. However, after calcination at 700ÂºC, Bi4Ti3O12 phase was mainly observed. Thermal decomposition behavior (DSC-TGA-DTA) was investigated as a function of milling time. Thermal analysis alongwith XRD results showed that the formation of desire phase (Bi4Ti3O12) was only possible above 600ÂºC. Single phase Bi4Ti3O12 ceramic was obtained with the orthorhombic structure by sintering at 800ÂºC. Maximum density (8.61g/cm3 ) was achieved in sample milled for 24h due to reduction in particle size which ultimately enhanced the diffusion process during sintering.
INVESTIGATION OF CHAOS EXISTENCE IN THE TIME SERIES OF LAHORE PRECIPITATION
Authors: Khan M. S. , Iqbal M. J.
Published: January 2025

The science of chaos is a burgeoning field, and the available methods to investigate the existence of chaos in a time series are still being developed. Chaos is also characterized by a positive Lyapunov exponent, which can be thought of as a measure of the long-term unpredictability of the system; equilibrium and periodic attractors have a negative exponent, whereas a quasiperiodic attractor has an exponent of zero. During the last few decades there have emerged several attempts to use the paradigm of â€˜chaosâ€™ for a description and forecasting of climatic processes. The predictability of daily rainfall is the most difficult task due to the nonlinear complex climateâ€™s dynamical system. This paper aims to investigate the existence of chaos in the time series of Lahore precipitation.
INTELIGÊNCIA ARTIFICIAL E DEEPFAKES
Authors: TAVARES CLÁUDIO DE MELLO
Published: January 2025

Este artigo explora o impacto das tecnologias de Inteligência Artificial (IA), com foco especial nos deepfakes, no contexto das eleições municipais de 2024 no Brasil. Em análise detalhada, o estudo examina os desafios éticos, legais e técnicos que essas inovações apresentam para o processo democrático. Aborda-se a evolução dos deepfakes, a regulamentação vigente estabelecida pelo Tribunal Superior Eleitoral e as possíveis estratégias para mitigar os riscos associados ao uso dessas tecnologias nas campanhas eleitorais. Discutem-se as dificuldades práticas na identificação e combate aos deepfakes, bem como as possíveis soluções tecnológicas e jurídicas para mitigar seus impactos. O artigo também discute a eficácia das medidas adotadas e propõe uma reflexão sobre a necessidade de balancear a inovação tecnológica com a proteção da integridade eleitoral. Conclui-se com propostas de estratégias para garantir a lisura do processo eleitoral diante dessas inovações tecnológicas.
Quels espaces pour les malades au sein des espaces funéraires anciens ? Réflexions à
partir de différents exemples archéologiques médiévaux et modernes en France
Authors: Réveillas Hélène
Published: January 2025

L’archéologie, et l’archéo-anthropologie en particulier, permettent d’approcher
directement les morts par l’étude des ensembles funéraires mis au jour lors des opérations
de fouille. L’étude de leur répartition dans l’espace, entre eux et par rapport aux autres
vestiges (édifice religieux, structures domestiques, artisanales ou agricoles, voies…) est
systématique car elle donne accès à une meilleure compréhension des gestes à l’origine de la
constitution de l’ensemble funéraire donné. Il est parfois ainsi possible de mettre en
évidence des sectorisations particulières comme le regroupement des sujets les plus jeunes
dans un espace donné du cimetière, à éventuellement relier aux notions de baptême ou des
limbes. La localisation de certaines architectures funéraires, aux matériaux coûteux, peut
aussi par exemple conduire à discuter de la topographie sociale de l’espace funéraire. Dans
cet article, nous nous proposons d’appréhender à partir de différents exemples un groupe
particulier de la communauté des morts pour les périodes médiévales et modernes (VIe –
XVIIIe s.), les individus victimes de pathologies, qu’elles soient endémiques ou
épidémiques. Quelle va être leur place dans les espaces funéraires? Vont-ils être intégrés
dans les mêmes espaces que les sujets considérés comme sains ou au contraire être relégués
dans un espace réservé? Observe-t-on le même traitement pour les victimes d’épidémies? Ces
questionnements, en particulier dans le cas de nombreuses morts simultanées, font écho à la
récente pandémie ayant frappé le monde actuel. L’épidémie de Covid-19 a ainsi rappelé la
nécessité de prendre en charge rapidement des décès simultanés et a pu remettre en lumière
des pratiques que l’on pensait révolues dans nos sociétés, hors de tout conflit (fosses
multiples, anonymisation des tombes, etc.).
Computer reconstruction of the appearance of the Albazinsky fortress during the first siege
Authors: Natsvin Aleksei Viktorovich , Eremin Il'ya Evgen'evich , Lokhov Aleksei Yur'evich
Published: January 2025

The article presents the computer reconstruction of the Albazinsky fortress in 1685. Within the framework of the study, the method of ontological coordination of the maximum available sample of source data was used, which was subsequently repeatedly used in the reconstruction of other architectural complexes. At the first step, a general topographic plan of the settlement was created, containing all the archaeological data available at the time of the study. On top of the resulting painting plan, structures directly related to the fortress fence were reproduced, while the interior of the fortress was reproduced according to the cartographic drawing "Luosha". It was decided to fill in information gaps with information about architectural analogues of the period under consideration, as well as the general norms of wooden architecture. As a result of the work, a detailed three-dimensional model of the fortress was developed and a physical model was created for the scientific museum of Amur State University. A special feature of this work is the use of modern information technology tools, as well as a systematic approach, which made it possible to accurately and reasonably reproduce the appearance of the first outpost of the Amur region. It should be noted that all sources reflect only fragmentary background information on the problem under study, but their integration allows us to obtain a qualitatively new result. It is also worth noting that the developed three-dimensional models form a library of elements that simplifies subsequent reconstructions, and the three-dimensional printing technology allows to replicate the layout. In turn, the relevance of the research topic is related not only to the large number of similar lost architectural complexes, but also to the growing interest in patriotic education and national history in general.
Transforming the Chaos: The ‘Writing’ Experiments of the Postdigital Ludic Writer
Authors: Wareham Morris Katy
Published: January 2025

The multimodal writer does not simply write a poem or piece of fiction, but also architects a dynamic, ludic space in order to ‘publish’ the piece. This article examines the literature associated with “literary-ludic hybridity” (Ensslin 32–33) whilst also offering critical reflections on my own playful experiments in digital writing, namely in the creation of Viole(n)t Existence. This process of autoethnographic evaluation revealed that some of the precise writing challenges faced by multimodal, literary-ludic writers were not examined as closely as those of ‘traditional’ print writers. Whilst Barnard (2017) acknowledges that both hardware and software date quickly and multimodal writers must be invested in new innovations, the implications are not fully elucidated. The realities are that this hardware and software can change even before the creative piece is finished. From my own experience, the creative process evolved to be far more complex than that captured by the terms ‘drafting’ or ‘editing.’ It involved producing and assessing a collection of iterations which move between digital and physical spaces, and blur digital, personal and cultural bodies, whilst trying desperately, ultimately phantasmorgorically, to move towards an ever elusive ‘final’ piece. This form of writing practice demonstrates Alexenberg’s (10) understanding of the postdigital. Postdigital ludic writers must engage in many playful, creative experiments, thus simultaneously creating postdigital, posthuman archives, which are all in constant metamorphosis.
Mastering Humans: Thinking (and) Slavery in the Age of Efficiency
Authors: Uściński Przemysław
Published: January 2025

Taking as a starting point William Blake’s indictment of the enslaving powers of militarism, the article looks at different conceptions of mastery, chiefly in the work of Friedrich Nietzsche and Martin Heidegger, also referring to Blake’s poetry and the literary figures of Hamlet and Robinson Crusoe. Nietzsche’s critique of slave morality and Heidegger’s analysis of the metaphysics of the will to power reveal a number of contradictions inherent in the concept of mastery, including the disavowal of bodily vulnerabilities and ecological interdependences. What Heidegger sees as the modern project of “absolute humanisation” is thus read alongside the posthumanist critique of human domination, including domination over nature, in the work of Claire Colebrook, Timothy Morton and Jean-Luc Nancy, among others. Such constructions of mastery tend to also erase their dependence on the exploitation of labour, including the toil of the slaves and women. What posthumanist critique appears to aim at is a shift from the rationality of pure reason to the relationality of earthly cohabitation, which calls for a relinquishing of mastery for an openness to uncertainty and vulnerability.
Testing convolutional neural network based deep learning systems: a statistical metamorphic approach
Authors: Rehman Faqeer ur , Izurieta Clemente
Published: January 2025

Machine learning technology spans many areas and today plays a significant role in addressing a wide range of problems in critical domains, i.e., healthcare, autonomous driving, finance, manufacturing, cybersecurity, etc. Metamorphic testing (MT) is considered a simple but very powerful approach in testing such computationally complex systems for which either an oracle is not available or is available but difficult to apply. Conventional metamorphic testing techniques have certain limitations in verifying deep learning-based models (i.e., convolutional neural networks (CNNs)) that have a stochastic nature (because of randomly initializing the network weights) in their training. In this article, we attempt to address this problem by using a statistical metamorphic testing (SMT) technique that does not require software testers to worry about fixing the random seeds (to get deterministic results) to verify the metamorphic relations (MRs). We propose seven MRs combined with different statistical methods to statistically verify whether the program under test adheres to the relation(s) specified in the MR(s). We further use mutation testing techniques to show the usefulness of the proposed approach in the healthcare space and test two CNN-based deep learning models (used for pneumonia detection among patients). The empirical results show that our proposed approach uncovers 85.71% of the implementation faults in the classifiers under test (CUT). Furthermore, we also propose an MRs minimization algorithm for the CUT, thus saving computational costs and organizational testing resources.
The Retention in Antiretroviral Therapy and Its Associated Factors among Pregnant Women
Authors: Okoli Ernest Chinedu , Hassan Saidu Malgwi , Adindu Kelechi Nelson , Emmanuel Nwoke Chukwuebuka , Agbo Peter Kenechukwu , Okoye Nelyn Akunna
Published: January 2025

Background: Despite several interventions and efforts to reduce the rate of transmission of HIV infection to newborns, it has been observed that there are growing cases of HIV occurrence in Nigeria especially in the northern part of the country. One of the identified causes is the failure of HIV-positive pregnant women to continue their life-long ART therapy. Therefore, this study investigates the factors responsible for pregnant women opting out of their ART procedures.
Methods: This is a quantitative study based on the analysis of secondary data from the medical records of 235 pregnant women who were enrolled in the HIV program between 2015 and 2019 in Gamboru Maternal and Child Health Clinic, Maiduguri, Nigeria. The characteristics of the patients and the prevalence of the factors and the retention rate were presented using frequencies and percentages. The predicting factors influencing ART retention were investigated using multiple logistic regression.
Results: The age of the participants ranged between 15 and 45 years. The average age of the sample was 28.9 ± 5.74. The retention rate of the patients was low (40%). In the final logistic model, the study found phone ownership (aOR, 0.075, 95% CI 0.071 – 0.336, p=0.001) as the significant factor for retention. The model explained 9.2% of the variability in retention.
Conclusion: This study highlights the critical issue of low retention in antiretroviral therapy (ART) among HIV-positive pregnant women in Maiduguri, Nigeria, with a retention rate of only 40%. Despite ongoing interventions to prevent mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV, challenges persist, particularly regarding the continuous adherence to ART during pregnancy. One of the most significant findings from this research is the association between phone ownership and improved ART retention, suggesting that access to communication tools may play a pivotal role in ensuring adherence to therapy.
The study emphasizes the importance of implementing focused strategies to overcome barriers to ART retention. Prioritizing the use of technology and improving access to communication tools, such as ensuring that pregnant women enrolled in ART programs have access to mobile phones, is crucial. Additionally, incorporating mobile health solutions, offering reminder systems, and promoting peer support through digital platforms could significantly improve adherence.
To achieve sustained ART retention and prevent HIV transmission to newborns, it is essential to adopt a multifaceted approach that addresses socioeconomic, educational, and systemic barriers. Future research should explore additional predictive factors and evaluate the effectiveness of tailored interventions aimed at improving retention rates in resource-constrained settings. By addressing these gaps, it will be possible to advance Nigeria's progress in combating HIV/AIDS and safeguarding maternal and child health.
Best of Graphic Medicine—The 2023 Graphic Medicine International Collective Awards
Authors: Green Michael J. , Wolf Kevin
Published: December 2023

This Arts and Medicine feature reviews 4 health-related graphic medicine (comic) projects judged as the best of 2022 by the Graphic Medicine International Collective.
Avi’s Love—The Importance of Abortion Rights for Everyone
Authors: Paul Sonali , Siddiqui Maryam Minhaj , Feinberg Eve C.
Published: December 2023

This essay describes a physician’s experience with terminating a wanted pregnancy and underscores the importance of access to abortion care.