bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementasi Model Pembelajaran Think Talk Write (TTW) Berbantuan Media Visual Terhadap Kemampuan Berpikir Kritis Matematika Peserta Didik
Authors: Sitohang Risma , Suci Zeldia , Nasution Yusra
Published: December 2023

Tujuan penelitian ini, yaitu untuk mengetahui pengaruh model pembelajaran Think Talk Write (TTW) berbantuan media visual terhadap kemampuan berpikir kritis matematika peserta didik kelas V SDN 104181. Jenis penelitian ini adalah quasi eksperiment dengan rancangan penelitian control group pretest dan posttest design. Subjek penelitian ini adalah siswa kelas V SDN 104181 Sunggal Kanan. Instrumen yang digunakan dalam pengumpulan data yaitu wawancara guru, tes atau evaluasi dan dokumentasi. Berdasarkan hasil pengujian hipotesis I di peroleh ttabel dengan taraf signifikan α = 0.05 dan dk = n−1 = 29 dari daftar distribusi-t diperoleh ttabel sebesar 5,488 dan thiung sebesar 1,699 yang berarti thitung > ttabel maka Ha diteriman dan H0 ditolak yaitu model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe Think Talk Write berbantuan media visual dapat meningkatkan kemampuan berpikir kritis matematika siswa. Hipotesis II diperoleh taraf signifikan α = 0.05 maka dari tabel distribusi t di peroleh nilai t58 = 1,67. Karena thitung > ttabel  yaitu  10,83 > 1,67. Berdasarkan hasil dari analisis data dan uji statistik serta pembahasan maka dapat ditarik kesimpulan bahwa kemampuan berpikir kritis matematika siswa yang dibelajarkan dengan model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe Think Talk Write lebih baik dari pada kemampuan berpikir kritis matematika siswa yang tidak dibelajarkan dengan model pembelajaran Think Talk Write.
Kegiatan Pembelajaran Sains Terhadap Perkembangan Kognitif Anak Usia 5-6 Tahun
Authors: Kamtini Kamtini , Apriani Khofifah
Published: December 2023

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui adanya pengaruh kegiatan pembelajaran  sains terhadap kognitif anak usia 5-6 tahun di RA Al-Quran Dina Padang Sidempuan. Masalah penelitian ini adalah kurangnya kegiatan pembelajaran yang dapat menarik perhatian anak sehingga mengakibatkan perkembangan kognitif anak rendah. Penelitian ini dilakukan di RA Al-Quran Dina Padang Sidempuan kecamatan Padang Sidempuan Selatan. Jenis penelitian ini termasuk penelitian kuantitatif eksprimen dengan menggunakan desain pre-test dan post-test. Rangkaian penelitian ini menggunakan tes dan dokumentasi untuk pengumpulan data. Teknik analisis data menggunakan analisis deskriptif dan analisis inferensial. Hasil penelitian ini membuktikan bahwa kegiatan pembelajaran sains berpengaruh terhadap perkembangan kognitif anak usia 5-6 tahun dengan rata-rata skor pre-test 32,67 dan rata-rata post-test 61,3. Data uji normalitas pre-test 0,0329 dan post-test 0,0322 < tabel L (Liliefors) 0,161 hasil data pre-test dan post-test berdistribusi normal. Data uji homogenitas pre-test dan post-test  1,08 < tabel F (Fisher) 1,875  hasil data pre-test dan post-test berdistribusi homogenitas. Hasil uji T menunjukkan bahwa Thitung = 9,90 karena dk = 30-2=28, taraf signifikan 0,05 maka Ttabel = 1,70. Maka Thitung > Ttabel = 9,90 > 1,70. Dengan demikian bahwa kegiatan pembelajaran sains berdampak signifikan terhadap perkembangan kognitif anak usia 5-6 tahun di RA Al-Quran Dina Padang Sidempuan.
The structure of certain unique classes of seminearrings
Authors: MANİKANDAN G. , RAMACHANDRAN Perumal , MADHUSOODHANAN P.
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we introduce the classes of $\alpha$ and strictly-$\alpha$ seminearrings and establishes some of their properties, mostly in relation to the possession of a mate

function. Then we get the criterion for an $\alpha$-seminearring to become a strictly-$\alpha$ seminearring. We also obtain a complete characterisations of $\alpha$ and strictly-$\alpha$ seminearrings and proved certain results for $\alpha$ and strictly-$\alpha$ seminearrings via certain unique classes of seminearrings.
“We consume to forget; we collect to believe”: Resistance, nostalgia, and VHS technologies in 21st century Greek video cultures
Authors: Kassaveti Ursula-Helen
Published: December 2023

Almost 50 years after the VCR’s (Video Cassette Recorder) worldwide penetration in the international entertainment market, this paper will explore VCR-use-related and VCR-viewing-related activities, and the cultural practices of the Greek video cultures, particularly videotape collectors, in the 21st century. Rooted in various disciplines, the article aims to illuminate the persistent nature of VHS collectors’ previous entertainment routines. From owning a VCR device and maintaining their videotape collections to enriching them with new acquisitions from video libraries and online buys, Greek videotape aficionados’ practices show continuities and discontinuities from the past. Furthermore, it will explore how these practices have influenced their perception of current uses and gratifications of VHS technologies, revealing a perspective rooted in (tech) nostalgia. Moreover, the article will argue that the enduring presence and resilience of VHS technologies can be regarded as a testament to collective memory, a resistance to the digitalization of entertainment, and a longing for simpler ways of life, particularly in the aftermath of the 2007–2008 financial recession and the rise of new technologies.
Science-related populism: Conceptualization, empirical investigation, and implications for science communication (Dissertation Summary)
Authors: Mede Niels G.
Published: December 2023

Populist criticism has become a significant challenge for science and science communication. Such criticism maintains that allegedly corrupt academic elites and their expertise are inferior to allegedly virtuous “ordinary people” and their common sense. It suggests that the people, rather than elites, should have authority over how “true knowledge” is produced and communicated. This dissertation provides a conceptual and empirical analysis of populist science criticism against the backdrop of science communication scholarship and practice. It develops a theoretical framework for populist demands toward science, conceptualizing them as science-related populism. It also introduces a novel measure to investigate science-related populism in surveys – the SciPop Scale – and provides empirical evidence on populist science criticism in Switzerland and beyond. Moreover, the dissertation discusses implications of science-related populism for public discourse about science as well as science communication practice and proposes ways to respond to it.
Steckbrief «DOCA – Database of Variables for Content Analysis». Zur Relevanz, Zielstellung, Inhalt und Partizipationsmöglichkeiten der Datenbank für Operationalisierungen der standardisierten Inhaltsanalyse
Authors: Oehmer-Pedrazzi Franziska , Kessler Sabrina H. , Humprecht Edda , Sommer Katharina , Castro Laia
Published: December 2023

Die Open Access Database of Variables for Content Analysis DOCA sammelt, systematisiert und evaluiert Operationalisierungen für die standardisierte manuelle und automatisierte Inhaltsanalyse in der Kommunikationswissenschaft. DOCA soll Forschenden das Finden von geeigneten und etablierten bzw. getesteten Operationalisierungen (sowie den gesamten Codebüchern) für die standardisierte Inhaltsanalyse erleichtern. Für die kommunikationswissenschaftliche Forschung soll dies mit einer besseren Vergleichbarkeit inhaltsanalytischer Studien und Projekte sowie einer erhöhten Bedeutungszuschreibung der Transparenz von Operationalisierungen und Qualitätsindikatoren einhergehen. Mit dem vorliegenden Steckbrief sind zwei zentrale Zielsetzungen verbunden: Erstens soll über DOCA und deren Einsatzgebiete informiert werden und so auch der Bekanntheitsgrad dieser Forschungsinfrastruktur gesteigert werden. Zweitens soll dieser Artikel aus der Perspektive der Herausgeberinnen den Prozess und die damit verbundenen Herausforderungen für die Konzeption, Realisation und Aufrechterhaltung einer Forschungsinfrastruktur darlegen.
The Open Access Database of Variables for Content Analysis (DOCA) collects, systematizes, and evaluates operationalizations for standardized manual and automatic content analysis in the field of communication science. DOCA aims to facilitate researchers in finding suitable and established or tested operationalizations (as well as complete codebooks) for standardized content analysis. For communication science research, this is expected to result in increased comparability of content analytic studies and projects, as well as greater emphasis on the transparency of operationalizations and quality indicators. The present fact sheet is associated with two central objectives: firstly, to provide information about DOCA and its applications, thereby increasing awareness of this research infrastructure. Secondly, from the personal perspective of the editors, this article aims to outline the process and associated challenges involved in the conception, realization, and maintenance of a research database.
Colour in the environment for older adults
Authors: Hencová Monika , Kotradyová Veronika
Published: December 2023

Demographic changes, the growing number of people with disabilities, and the demands on architecture and design are posing new challenges for designers. The space in which older adults live should be safe, not only from a legal point of view but especially to facilitate their daily activities. Modern society prioritizes the integration of older adults into everyday life so that as people grow older, they are not forced to abandon their daily routines because of obstacles in the space. It is said that a person is not handicapped because of their illness, but because society fails to prepare conditions for them to be able to move and live without restrictions. Moving in space is a multisensory experience. People use most of their senses such as sight, hearing, smell, and touch in addition to moving their bodies. How we feel indoors depends on the indoor climate, lighting, surface colours, air quality, floor plan, and furniture layout. Studies show that the materials and colour of products have an impact on how we navigate a space, how we feel and, in some cases, they can even have healing effects. The aim of our study is to investigate the association between colours in the environment and the orientation of people, especially older adults, in the space they live in. Several studies, experiments, and observations of foreign researchers serve as the basis of the paper. The analysis of case studies proved that colours in the environment have a significant impact on orientation in space and can be an effective tool for spatial orientation and drawing attention to a particular place. In surveys that have been conducted with older adults, warm colour tones such as yellow, orange, and red are preferred over cold ones. Red tones are some of the most easily recognizable for older adults who suffer from loss of colour recognition. They have lower cognitive abilities as a result of aging. Therefore, the achromatic environment does not sufficiently stimulate their brain function, leading to longer reaction times. Colour and contrast indoors play a big role in the perception of space and can help in drawing attention to a particular place.
Selected Legal Issues in Online Adult Education: Compliance of Online Learning and Teaching Process with GDPR
Authors: Jekabsone Inga
Published: December 2023

COVID-19 has had a major influence on the educational system. Since March 2020, the majority of teaching and learning has taken place online, including in the adult education sector. At the same time, the speedy transformation to the online mode has raised various legal issues, particularly regarding data protection, intellectual property rights, and compliance with the national legal framework. This article aims to analyse the compliance of online learning and teaching in adult education programmes with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and, on the basis of that, make recommendations to adult education entities that offer online teaching and learning process. To achieve the aim, the author uses the following research methods: a doctrinal research method, a scientific literature review, and a survey. As a result, the author identifies various legal issues regarding personal data protection during recording online teaching and learning, such as compliance with the GDPR requirements during online lecturing, compliance of e-platform providers with the GDPR, unauthorised access, data loss, and cyberattacks.
Automation Within a Novel Platform for the European Small Claims Procedure
Authors: Veersalu Karine , Hoffmann Thomas
Published: December 2023

Contemporary technology and artificial intelligence increasingly facilitate the delivery of justice by automating, accelerating, and supporting judicial procedures with digitisation and automation tools. This article analyses options for the automatisation of the European Small Claims Procedure. The authors propose the digitisation of the procedure to a greater extent by additional features, such as AI-powered translation and text-to-speech tools, as well as creation of a trustworthy system for submission and storing of procedural documents based on the Estonian e-File example within the framework of the ongoing EU-funded SCAN II-project.
The overview of Michael Novak’s economic and political theory in the context of his relations with Poland
Authors: Konstańczak Stefan
Published: December 2023

Michael Novak’s concept of democratic capitalism in Poland aroused great interest for several reasons. The most important of them consisted in its close relation to the teaching of the Polish Pope John Paul II. The second was its temporal coincidence with the start of a political transformation in Poland, when a model of development consistent with Polish tradition and social expectations was sought. The third was related to its Slavic roots and origin, which gained in importance given a perceived civilizational backwardness of the countries belonging to the former socialist bloc. For Polish Catholic thinkers, the concept of democratic capitalism initially seemed to promise a smooth transition to a market economy, protecting society from the shock of a possible collision with predatory capitalism. But the discussions of Michael Novak’s conception which took place in Poland at that time were unfortunately burdened with fears of cultural pluralism and with leaving individuals too much freedom in implementing their own ways of achieving happiness. Polish conservatives, who were in power at that time, did not seem to understand the important need for a dynamic moral and cultural system in a society that was just starting its modernization processes. It is paradoxical, but in these discussions what was most feared was the weakening of religious traditions in Polish society. According to the author, this fear caused distrust of the democratic conception, and especially its moral foundations, which continues to this day. This paper, therefore, also contributes to reflection on to what extent the teachings of John Paul II have been absorbed in Polish conservative circles.
Michael Novak’s understanding of capitalism
Authors: Kalajtzidis Ján
Published: December 2023

This paper examines the work of Michael Novak, a prominent American philosopher and theologian with roots in Central Europe. The study focuses on Novak’s understanding of democratic capitalism and its role in promoting economic growth and human flourishing. Novak argues that when properly understood and practiced, capitalism can lead to a more just and prosperous society, as it is based on the human desire for freedom, creativity, and self-expression. However, he emphasizes that the success of capitalism depends on the presence of moral and spiritual values, which he believes are necessary for it to function properly. This paper explores Novak’s arguments and evaluates them in the light of current knowledge. It also examines which values Novak deems important and why. The paper concludes that while Novak’s understanding of capitalism has some limitations, it offers valuable insights into the relationship between economics and morality. Novak’s framework provides a starting point for future discussions on how to ensure that capitalism operates ethically and promotes the common good.
A Catholic correction of Max Weber’s thesis on Protestant ethic in the view of Michael Novak
Authors: Góra Dariusz
Published: December 2023

Max Weber’s thesis on the decisive influence of Protestant ethic on the formation and development of modern capitalism has become one of the best-known and widely shared canonical claims in social sciences. Since its publication at the beginning of the 20th century, this thesis, supported by subsequent great works by the German classic, has rarely been the subject of major controversy. The work of correcting Weber’s thesis was undertaken in the late 20th century by Michael Novak. Novak’s correction is not confrontational, but complementary. The American thinker abandons the research area of minority Protestant communities, which caught Weber’s attention, and undertakes an analysis of the broader religious tradition, developing both before and after the Reformation. In particular, the achievements of Pope John Paul II, interpreted by Novak in terms of the renewal of a liberty current of Catholic social thought, provide important corrective data.
The vision of Caritapolis and perspectives of the future: The high point of Michael Novak’s work
Authors: Míčka Roman
Published: December 2023

The pinnacle of the Novak’s reflections on possible perspectives for the future of the world and the development of international relations is his vision of “Caritapolis” (“Civilization of love”), which is presented especially in the book The universal hunger for liberty – Why the clash of civilizations is not inevitable (2004a). Novak builds the concept on the religious assumptions and on the minimum level of general belief in basic principles (cultural humility, regulative idea of truth, the dignity of the individual person, solidarity), which he considers to be the key to the world security, prosperity and the democratic future of the globalized world. This “vision for the 21st century” is to contribute to the consideration of a universal civilization that would respect all its internal variations and create a certain unity despite its rich diversity of value and religious ideas. The aim of this paper is to present Novak’s concept of Caritapolis and to evaluate it in terms of context of the social doctrine of the Church, Catholic social thought debates, relevance in the context of debates in the social sciences, especially the theories of international relations.
The idea of democracy and the progress of society in the work of Michael Novak: A look at the theory and subsequent development of Michael Novak’s predictions in the context of Central European countries
Authors: Szaniszló Inocent-Mária Vladimír
Published: December 2023

If we want to think about Michael Novak’s contribution to the development of democracy and the progress of society in the countries of Central and Eastern Europe, it will be necessary to look at several authors from whom he drew his ideas. With the help of the Italian moralist, Giuseppe Angelini, we will try to explain the historical and contemporary development of the concept of development as understood in the Social Doctrine of the Church and Novak’s commentaries on John Paul II’s encyclicals on progress and development. Novak cites “Aquinas’s forgotten conclusion that social order is based on civil dialogue”. With these reflections, he seeks to build on the work of other prominent American philosophers and political scientists, such as John Courtney Murray, Paul Steidl-Meier, and others, while presenting his vision of economic and social progress for the countries living under the totalitarian regime of the Soviet bloc. The most important ideas here are directed towards notions such as the right to economic initiative and especially a notion of genuine individual freedom in society.
Mediating Effect of Pleasure-Seeking and Loss Aversion in the Relationship Between Phantasy and Financial Risk Tolerance and the Moderating Role of Confidence
Authors: Aren Selim , Hamamci Hatice Nayman
Published: December 2023

Research background

Deciding to trade in financial markets is psychologically difficult and wearing. Investors want to find rational justifications for the correctness of their decisions. However, there is uncertainty in financial markets. This uncertainty does not allow for mathematical calculations. In such case, feelings get involved in the decision process.

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the mediating effect of two motivational systems (loss aversion and pleasure-seeking) on the effect of phantasy, which is fantasies that are based on an individual’s early infancy, that develop and exist throughout life, but are not consciously aware of by the individual, on financial risk tolerance, and to analyze the moderating effect of confidence in the effect of these two motivational systems on financial risk tolerance.

Research methodology

Data were collected from 1,643 subjects from Turkey in November–December 2021 using a questionnaire. The link to the survey prepared by the researchers was created using Google Survey and shared by our graduates’ students on their social networks.

Results

According to the results, phantasy had a positive and significant effect on both motivational systems and financial risk tolerance. Simultaneously, two motivational systems have a mediating effect on the relationship between phantasy and financial risk tolerance. Confidence, on the other hand, has a moderating effect on the effect of these two motivational systems on financial risk tolerance. In addition, as expected, phantasy showed its effect on all individuals without differing according to demographic variables. Despite this, loss aversion and low financial risk tolerance were higher in female and married individuals. While pleasure-seeking is higher in males, it does not differ according to marital status.

Novelty

Modeling unconscious processes, motivational systems and individual characteristics such as confidence together will provide important and useful findings for both investors and market authority in terms of showing the effect of unconscious and cognitive factors on financial risk tolerance.
Economic Performance Paths of CEE Countries and the EU-27 in 2000–2022
Authors: Batóg Jacek , Batóg Barbara
Published: December 2023

Research background

An analysis of the similarity of countries’ economic developments can provide an important premise for both the assessment of current international economic relations and the long-term prediction of their economic development potential.

Purpose

The paper presents research results on the paths of economic performance of the countries of Central and Eastern Europe in 2000–2022. As a reference object the EU-27 aggregate has been considered. A supplementary analysis of the impact of the last crises on the economic situation of the CEE countries was provided.

Research methodology

The analysis is carried out based on the authors’ method of multivariate analysis, where two positioning criteria are applied: an object’s distance from the optimal point and an object’s heterogeneity. A comparative analysis of economic performance paths dependency is provided using a first-order correlation coefficient for time series.

Results

It has been found that there has been a significant improvement in the macroeconomic situation of the CEE countries over the last two decades. Changes of economic performance in these countries were very similar, while the heterogeneity of their macroeconomic indicators was diminishing, due to nominal, real and institutional convergence. The CEE countries reacted in a similar way both to the worldwide economic crisis in 2009 and to the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 coronavirus in 2020. It has been confirmed that the first of these crises had a greater negative impact on the economic situation of these countries.

Novelty

The originality of the study carried out lies, on the one hand, in the use of the author’s research method and, on the other hand, in the presentation of the impact of economic crises on the economic situation of a selected group of countries in the long term. The added value of the study is an analysis of the correlations of paths describing the economic situation of individual countries.
Generational Differences In Work Values In The Workplace
Authors: Kinger Neha , Kumar Satinder
Published: December 2023

Research background

Generational differences in work values, specifically in India, are now having an impact on organizational effectiveness and workplace environments. Even though a wide range of perspectives, experiences, and skill sets might be valuable to a business, generational mixing can also lead to conflict and a lack of agreement in the workplace. Such disagreements have a negative effect on the workplace since they reduce productivity and negatively damage employee morale. To solve the problems of inefficiency caused by the generation gap, different generations in the workplace must understand the differences between the three generations and be able to get along with each other.

Purpose

Examining the differences between three generations in the workplace is the purpose of the study. The study also aims to examine how different generations have different work values.

Research methodology

To examine the current situation in IT companies of Delhi and NCR. A total of 450 employees completed a questionnaire. Baby Boomers were defined as those born between (1946–1964), Generation X was born between (1965-1980) and Generation Y was born between (1981–1996). The values of status and freedom at work were more important to the younger group than to the older group.

Results

There were significant generational differences, with Baby Boomers having higher status values and extrinsic values in organizations than Generation X and Generation Y. Values have an important role in directing behaviour and improving work motivation. An organization’s work values and expectations must be clarified to workers, and values must be flexible enough to satisfy the demands of various employees.

Novelty

Furthermore, Generation Y is the first generation that has grown up with the Internet; as a result, they consider working together virtually to be standard procedure.
Intellectual Capital Value Addition and the Efficient Assets Management of Listed Manufacturing Firms in Nigeria
Authors: Madugba Joseph Ugochukwu , Egbide Ben-Caleb , Uzondu Anoruoh Paul , Oparah Vivian Iheaku , Adesola Deborah Ayomide
Published: December 2023

Research background

One crucial area that has not received good research attention is intellectual property. Even organizations engage the services of recruiting firms to get the best labour, and some workers earn more than others. But intellectual value addition is not ascertained.

Purpose

The goal of this study is to examine the effect of intellectual capital value addition on the efficient asset management of manufacturing firms in Nigeria.

Research methodology

Data was sourced from the published annual accounts of 24 manufacturing firms. The VAIC was adapted to measure Intellectual capital value addition which is the predictor variable, while Return on Assets was used as a determinant of efficient assets management. The ordinary least square regression of the panel data was used to test the hypothesis.

Result

The outcome of the regression revealed that HC is a determinant of ROA with a co-efficient of regression and a significant value of (0.102 > 0.5). SC has an adverse and noteworthy influence on ROA as indicated (–0.046 > 0.05) while CEE has a positive and significant influence on ROA (0.825 > 0.50). The paper affirmed that a weighty and constructive relationship exists amid intellectual capital and efficient assets management of the manufacturing companies and endorsed that listed manufacturing businesses in Nigeria should efficiently and effectively manage intellectual capital.

Novelty

This has contributed to extant literature as it’s the first study to investigate the effect of intellectual capital addition on efficient assets management in listed manufacturing companies in Nigeria. There is no study of this nature in Nigeria that has successfully adopted VAIC and it has proved that corporations consider hiring the best-skilled labour because of its contribution which improves the performance of such business. Again, this study covered 240 firm years, that is, ten years each of twenty-four companies, which no other previous study has done.
Analysis of Production Risk in Intensive Chicken Farms – The Case of Kosovo
Authors: Murrja Arif , Ndreca Pjetër , Maloku Sadik , Meço Maksim
Published: December 2023

Research background

The egg production sector in the poultry industry in Kosovo is well developed, with intensive chicken farms that meet 99% of domestic demand (MAFRD, 2021). However, this industry is not without risks. As such, this research investigates the production risks faced by intensive chicken farms.

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the severity of production risks and familiarize farmers with their levels.

Research methodology

Both qualitative and quantitative statistical methods were utilized in this study. Indicators are defined to measure the perception of farmers according to the Likert scale ranging from 1 (very low) to 5 (very high). A quantitative analysis is then performed to calculate the interval width, loss distribution, damage standard deviation, and coefficient of variation.

Results

The qualitative analysis reveals that farmers’ perceptions of production risks are not necessarily related to financial damages. The risk matrix is used to convey the levels and severity of production risks. The quantitative analysis shows that production risks have a high degree of dispersion (82.35%), a high standard deviation (€13,526), and a very high coefficient of variation (204%).

Novelty

This study is novel in that it is the first to explore production risks in the intensive chicken production industry in Kosovo. Previous studies have only focused on financial risk, market risk, legal risk and human resource risk.
Fiscal and Monetary Measures in Achieving Green Ecology: Evidence from Nigeria
Authors: Omodero Cordelia Onyinyechi
Published: December 2023

Research background

In light of the apparent density of the carbon output in the ecosystems of emerging regions, the United Nations has established a manual that puts an emphasis on carbon taxes as one of the quick fixes to environmental uncleanness in evolving states.

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to look into the impact of monetary and fiscal policy measures on reducing carbon emissions in the ecosystems of Nigeria.

Research methodology

The study employs the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) co-integration technique or the bound co-integration technique to confirm the existence of long and short term nexus and the influence of selected financial instruments on pollutant reduction. The study spans 1991 to 2021 and relies on World Bank Development Indicators data on inflation and CO2 discharges in millions of metric tons. The statistics on tax earnings is derived from the Central Tax Authority in billions of national currency, but the figures on the state’s outlay and broad money supply are generated from the database of the Apex Bank in the country.

Result

According to the analysis, financial instruments are not yet being directed toward reducing air pollution and environmental devastation in the country. Further investigation reveals that tax revenue gathering is positively irrelevant, but CO2 has a strong positive effect on its reduction at lag 1, implying that a more eco-friendly financial strategy is required to combat environmental hazards in Nigeria.

Novelty

A Green financial system is a big issue of contention in the global public discussion about rising temperatures. Presently, there are few studies on the management of pollution using financial instruments in emerging regions. This study will serve as one of the leading investigations to align with the United Nations goal to restore our biodiversity through green fiscal and monetary policies. The study strongly suggests that the Nigerian government should pursue green fiscal and monetary mechanisms that include: issuance of green bonds; potential and cost-effective green payment plans, carbon taxation, and ecologically responsible national budgets and investment opportunities.
The Impact of Innovation on the Sustainable Development of Enterprises
Authors: Stawicka Ewa
Published: December 2023

Research background

Innovations are of great interest to scientists, practitioners, and decision-makers as a key instrument for achieving sustainable development, the existing literature indicates theoretical and methodological gaps in this area.

Purpose

The main objective of this article is to examine whether innovation positively impacts sustainable development in enterprises in the SME sector.

Research methodology

the study was conducted among enterprises from the SME sector in Poland. In the field of research, the electronic questionnaire technique (Google Forms) was used. Partial square inclusion equation (PLS) structural modeling was used to analyze the data.

Results

The ability of enterprises to achieve the desired result, create and improve products and services, high-quality products, and quick processes of transforming an idea into a product/service affect the development of enterprises towards sustainable development.

Novelty

Compared to previous studies, this article contains significant novelties. First, the measure of innovation and sustainable development was analyzed. Secondly, the contribution of innovation to sustainable development is shown. The article is a contribution to further research, as it formulates selective conclusions from empirical research.
A Comparative Analysis of Household Incomes of People with Different Levels of Education in Poland and the USA
Authors: Trzcińska Kamila , Zalewska Elżbieta
Published: December 2023

Research background

Household income is one of the most important economic categories depending on various factors, in particular on the level of education of the head of the household. Salaries are treated as the market valuation of graduates made by employers. Hence, the question arises of how the education system affects the distribution of household income, in particular in the group of people with higher education.

Purpose

The aim of the paper is to apply the Singh-Maddala model to describe the income distribution of people with primary, secondary and higher education in Poland and the USA. On the basis of numerical characteristics and measures of income inequality, the situation of education, in particular higher education, and its impact on household income in the analyzed countries were assessed.

Research methodology

The study used data from the Luxembourg Income Study Database (LIS) from 2020. All analyzes were based on the Singh-Maddala model. The maximum likelihood method was used to estimate the model parameters.

Results

The analysis showed that the higher the level of education, the better the income situation of the household. In Poland, salaries in the group of people with higher education are the most unequal, while in the USA the greatest income inequalities occur in the group of people with primary education.

Novelty

The paper describes the issue of household income distribution and income inequality, which is an important and current socio-economic problem. To describe and analyze the economic situation of the household incomes of people with different levels of education in Poland and the USA statistical data from the Luxembourg Income Study Database (LIS) was used. Empirical studies conducted for different samples add significantly to existing knowledge on the topic.
Block Weighted Least Squares Estimation for Nonlinear Cost-based Split Questionnaire Design
Authors: Li Yang , Qi Le , Qin Yichen , Lin Cunjie , Yang Yuhong
Published: December 2023

In this study, we advocate a two-stage framework to deal with the issues encountered in surveys with long questionnaires. In Stage I, we propose a split questionnaire design (SQD) developed by minimizing a quadratic cost function while achieving reliability constraints on estimates of means, which effectively reduces the survey cost, alleviates the burden on the respondents, and potentially improves data quality. In Stage II, we develop a block weighted least squares (BWLS) estimator of linear regression coefficients that can be used with data obtained from the SQD obtained in Stage I. Numerical studies comparing existing methods strongly favor the proposed estimator in terms of prediction and estimation accuracy. Using the European Social Survey (ESS) data, we demonstrate that the proposed SQD can substantially reduce the survey cost and the number of questions answered by each respondent, and the proposed estimator is much more interpretable and efficient than present alternatives for the SQD data.
Modelling of Methanol Production From Biogas
Authors: Kharitonov V. , Geza V. , Rodin L. , Shorohov M.
Published: December 2023

This article presents a computer model for the methanol production from biogas. The stages of autothermal and steam reforming of biogas and the methanol synthesis cycle are considered. A study has been performed on the influence of the composition of biogas and the method of its conversion on the amount of methanol produced. As a result of the computational experiment on the model, the optimal composition of biogas has been determined and the applicability of the methods of autothermal and steam reforming has been assessed. An assessment has been made of reducing the carbon pressure on the environment during the processing of biogas into methanol.
The Use of Renewable Energy and Capillary Heat Exchangers for Energy Savings in the Existing Apartment
Authors: Gendelis S. , Jakovics A. , Pulkis O. , Bukans I.
Published: December 2023

The use of capillary heat exchangers with a large area means the lowest heat carrier temperature – typically less than 30 °C for heating. This determines the very efficient use of the installed heat pump due to an increase in the coefficient of performance (COP) with a decrease in the provided water temperature. The aim of the study was to find out whether renewable energy sources and radiant capillary heat exchangers increase energy efficiency. In order to achieve the maximum energy efficiency during the renovation of the existing apartment, a combination of two green approaches was used. One of them is the replacement of the existing high-temperature radiator heating system with radiant capillary mats. The same system is also used for cooling, which was not possible with the existing system. The necessary energy is provided from renewable aerothermal energy by installing a heat pump together with PV panels to ensure electricity consumption.

The measurements were made in the apartment to determine the thermal transmission properties of all boundary structures and an air exchange rate using long-term monitoring. Experimental data were used to create the heat balance, to estimate the heating and cooling powers, as well as the seasonal energy needs. The amount of capillary heat exchangers and the size of the heat pump were chosen accordingly.

The very first energy consumption data allow concluding that the planned improvement of the energy efficiency has been successfully achieved by using technology combination described without improvement of the thermal properties.
Density-Based Topological Optimization of 3D-Printed Casts for Fracture Treatment with Freefem Software
Authors: Kokars K. , Krauze A. , Muiznieks K. , Virbulis J. , Verners P. , Gutcaits A. , Olins J.
Published: December 2023

3D printed plastic casts can be used for healing bone fractures. The main requirements for these cases are: they should be light, require little printing time, have good mechanical properties, and ensure proper skin ventilation. We present a density-based topology optimization algorithm for obtaining optimal cast shapes that fulfil these requirements. The algorithm uses a linear stress model and simplified boundary conditions to model the contact problems. The cast shapes were optimized against the influence of several sharp corners. The parametric studies showed that the mass of optimized casts was reduced by 20 %–25 % in comparison with original industrial casts, and the printing time is reduced by 1.4–1.7 h for the largest cast. A major model drawback is the use of 3D numerical volume to model the density distribution. The density distribution should be homogenized across the cast layer. The overhang problem should also be addressed. We also suggest that the cast producers collect more experimental data on the cast breakages for a better calibration of the numerical model.
Vocal interaction between Eurasian Eagle-Owl (Bubo bubo) and canines (Carnivora, Canidae)
Authors: Andreychev Alexey
Published: December 2023

We recorded vocal interaction in the natural environment of an Eurasian Eagle-Owl (Bubo bubo) with canines Gray Wolves (Canis lupus), Red Foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and domestic dogs (Canis familiaris). Vocalization was recorded using Olympus digital voice recorders. The calls of the male Eurasian Eagle-Owl were recorded by us in the frequency range of 200–420 Hz. The howl of a Gray Wolf was recorded in the frequency range from 300 to 1,100 Hz. Red Fox barking was recorded in the frequency range from 750 to 1,000 Hz. Barking of domestic dogs was recorded in the frequency range from 250 to 1,500 Hz. The vocalization of the Eurasian Eagle-Owl had an independent character inherent in the biology of the species. The Eurasian Eagle-Owl, with its cries, involuntarily provoked the entry of canines into joint vocal interaction, which can be explained by the high social activity of the latter. Co-vocalizations of the Eurasian Eagle-Owl and canines were noted in winter, spring and autumn, but mainly in spring (50%). The increased use of autonomous voice recorders, which record spontaneous vocalizations emitted by animals over long periods, will allow us to better document and study the importance of such interspecific interactions.
Population trend and breeding productivity of some migrant passerines in Hungary
Authors: Kiss Csilla , Karcza Zsolt , Lukács Katalin O. , Winkler Dániel , Gyurácz József
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to monitor the demographic changes of some closely related species based on bird ringing data from the CES (Constant Effort Sites) program in Hungary between 2007 and 2018, and to explore the reasons for these demographic changes. The CES program tracks breeding bird populations with standard methods. The studied species breeding in Hungary were from genera Sylvia, Curruca, and Phylloscopus. Among these species, the trends of some forest birds, like Eurasian Blackcap (Sylvia atricapilla), Lesser Whitethroat (Curruca curruca), Common Chiffchaff (Phylloscopus collybita) and Willow Warbler (Ph. trochilus) showed no substantial changes, and one of the open-habitat species, the Barred Warbler (Curruca nisoria) – a long distant migrant – showed decreasing trends. The Garden Warbler (Sylvia borin) – a trans-Saharan migrant but forest dweller – also experienced population declines. Short-distance migrants maintained stable populations. Common Whitethroat productivity displayed an increasing trend to compensate for population decline. Upon examining the Eurasian Blackcap, this study detected a strong relationship between the number of adult birds, productivity, and the number of adults captured the following year.
Do mobile health applications supporting self-monitoring during pregnancy strengthen the sense of security, life satisfaction, and social support among pregnant women? – comparative analysis
Authors: Walec Monika Ewa , Ślusarska Barbara Janina , Nowicki Grzegorz Józef
Published: December 2023

Introduction. The continuous dynamic development of medical applications creates new opportunities in perinatal care that need to be analyzed and continuously updated. Special attention should be paid to how their use affects the condition of pregnant women and their families.

Aim. The aim of the study was to determine the differences in the sense of security and social support, and life satisfaction between pregnant women using and not using medical applications.

Material and methods. Cross-sectional studies using the CAWI method were conducted in March 2022. The research used an original questionnaire The Satisfaction With Life Scale, The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, and the Security Experience Questionnaire.

Results. A total number of 1077 pregnant women participated in the study, 1002 of whom used and 75 did not use medical applications monitoring the course of pregnancy. Most of the surveyed women were aged 26-35, and were in their first pregnancy and in the third trimester. The most frequently cited reasons for using the application were pictures showing the fetus size and monitoring the baby condition, while the reason for not using the application was considering it a waste of time.

Conclusions. Women using mobile applications were characterized by higher scores on life satisfaction, sense of security, and social support.
Why Did Housing Prices Rise to a Record Level in Turkey? An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Yaşar Reha Z. , Bulut Erdem
Published: December 2023

Turkey is one of those countries where housing market has been most severely affected by COVID-19 pandemic. Today the effects of the outbreak have been eliminated significantly. This study retrospectively looks at the days when the world faced a widespread outbreak of a pandemic and investigates the effect of the pandemic and the changes in consumer confidence on housing prices and the volatility of housing prices. Considering the structural breaks in the analysis period (2010:q1-2022:q4 quarterly), we used the Lee and Strazicich structural break unit root test as a research method. The results show that an increase in costs due to a break in the supply chain and containment measures forcing the workforce to stay at home affected the housing supply adversely. It is observable that expansionary economic policies and social assistance programs have a positive effect on housing demand. In this regard, negative supply shock and positive demand pressure are seen to be the determinants of the recent housing price increases in Turkey. However, while there is a positive relationship between consumer confidence and house prices, the effect of house prices on the volatility is statistically insignificant.