bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Digital divide and digitalization in Europe: A bibliometric analysis
Authors: Kovac Natasa , Żmija Katarzyna , Roy Jewel Kumar , Kusa Rafał , Duda Jerzy
Published: July 2024

Research background: Digitalization and the associated digital divide are crucial issues impacting socio-economic development globally. Extensive research has examined digitalization and the digital divide in EU countries, but there is a lack of understanding regarding comparisons with studies conducted in Western Balkan countries. This study investigates digitalization trends in research from the past five years in both regions, focusing on efforts and factors contributing to the digital gap.
Purpose of the article: The study analyzes research on digitalization from 2018 to 2023 in the EU and Western Balkans. It explores factors causing the digital divide and efforts in digitalization, aiming to guide future research and policy for digital inclusion and sustainable development.
Methods: The study employs a meticulous data selection process, choosing Scopus as the database for its extensive coverage of diverse journals. A total of 1119 articles from EU countries and 277 from Western Balkan countries are selected for bibliometric analysis, adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
Findings & value added: The research reveals a growing interest in digitalization-related issues, demonstrating the multidisciplinary nature of ongoing research. It points out the distribution of publications on digitalization in the EU and Western Balkans countries. The EU focuses on digital technologies, economic growth, and sustainability, while Western Balkan countries focus on COVID-19 impact and digitalization in education and business. The research compares digitalization efforts in the EU and Western Balkan countries presented in the literature, pointing to new dimensions of the digital divide studies. It discusses how socio-economic contexts affect digital transformation and stresses the need for tailored policy approaches for digital inclusivity. These insights are of great importance for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners working towards global digital development and bridging the digital divide. The study lays the groundwork for future research and policy considerations, considering limitations like potential bias in databases and search criteria.
Bricks or clicks? Factors influencing shopping behavior of Generation Z
Authors: Kunc Josef , Novotná Markéta , Reichel Vlastimil , Križan František , Bilková Kristína
Published: July 2024

Research background: Generation Z, a consumer base with significant global impact, strongly relies on smart devices, shaping their unique consumption patterns. As this demographic becomes increasingly influential, understanding their shopping behavior is crucial for effective retail marketing strategies.
Purpose of the article: This article aims to evaluate the shopping behavior and habits of Generation Z, particularly focusing on the determinants that influence their choices, with a specific emphasis on the role of smart technology. The objective is to uncover insights that explain the relationship between smart device usage and shopping behavior, offering perspectives for retailers aiming to tailor their strategies to the preferences of this demographic.
Methods: A survey conducted during the 2019/2020 season involved 1,756 respondents from the Czech Generation Z. To estimate the relationships between smart device usage and shopping behavior, the linear probability and the logit models were employed. Additionally, descriptive statistics provided a comprehensive overview of respondents’ preferences and habits.
Findings & value added: The results indicate that while the average time spent on smartphones does not inherently correlate with an increased preference for online shopping, it does enhance the likelihood of engaging in online transactions. Contrary to expectations, brick-and-mortar stores remain competitive and are slightly more preferred than online shops among the Czech young generation. This preference is attributed to the tangible experience of touching products and immersing in the store's ambiance. Furthermore, a relationship emerges between concerns about data security and a reduced frequency of online shopping, emphasizing the need to address such apprehensions in marketing strategies. Overall, these findings provide insights into the nuanced shopping behaviors of Generation Z, with implications that extend beyond regional boundaries, guiding retailers in adapting and optimizing their approaches to meet the needs of this demographic.
Detection of earnings manipulations during the corporate life cycle in Central European countries
Authors: Michalkova Lucia , Krulicky Tomas , Kucera Jiri
Published: July 2024

Research background: The growing trend of financial distress risk worldwide increases the need for effective tools to detect accounting manipulation by stakeholders (debt holders, shareholders, suppliers, and customers). However, the well-known models of accrual earnings management do not reflect the financial specificity of individual life cycle stages and their cash flow patterns. Purpose of the article: The study examines the impact of the corporate life cycle on the reliability of accrual earnings management models and identifies appropriate models for detecting accounting manipulation in Central European countries. Methods: Seven accrual earnings management models were used. They were evaluated based on five criteria: explanatory power (adjusted coefficient of determination), overall significance of the regression model, significance of the regression coefficients, predicted sign of the regression coefficients, and standard errors of the estimated regression coefficients. Finally, a comprehensive scoring model was used to determine the overall quality of the models examined. The study was conducted on a sample of more than 30,000 enterprises from four Central European countries (the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia), with data covering the period 2017–2021. The Dickinson non-sequential life cycle model was used to distinguish life cycle stages according to cash flow patterns. Findings & value added: The results of the study suggest that, firstly, discretionary accruals vary across countries as well as over the firm's life cycle; earnings manipulations have an inverted U-shape with mature firms tending to reduce their accounting profit. The reliability of the models examined was poor in the case of start-ups. This reflects the need to distinguish between life cycle stages in the detection of earnings manipulation.
Structural change and economic growth: Causality relationships in the case of Poland
Authors: Cyrek Magdalena
Published: July 2024

Research background: Structural change and economic growth characterise any process of economic development and have relevant research background. However, the research on identification of a character of relationships between the phenomena are not conclusive. Researchers either find that economic growth induces structural change and the process is demand-driven or that structural change determines economic growth and the dependencies are supply-driven or that the relation is two-directional with overlapping interdependencies. Moreover, the association may be shaped differently depending on specific development conditions of each economy and transform over time.
Purpose of the article: The aim of the study is to investigate the relationships between economic growth and structural change in the sectional composition of employment in Poland using state-level quarterly data for 2008–2022. It empirically verifies whether economic growth determines structural change or changes in economic structure influence growth in this specific national context, giving insights into a character of the developmental interdependencies. However, the Polish case is only an example of developmental feedbacks that may specify any catching-up economy. Diagnosing the dominating character of the economic relation is of high importance for any modern transforming country and identifying any limitations to the interdependencies may make it possible to avoid the middle-income trap.
Methods: The paper examines the causality using Granger-test and analyses the relationships with VAR models. It uses some alternative measures of structural change, namely Norm of Absolute Value (NAV), Modified Lilien Index (MLI), and Clark Index (CI) to catch labour reallocation across sections of economic activity (NACE Rev. 2). They are then adopted in lead-lag models of relationships with economic growth.
Findings & value added: The study browses the classical three-sectoral approach to structural transformation using a more detailed structural layout to capture its modern character. Moreover, it compares alternative measures of structural change to derive more detailed conclusions. Methodologically, the study highlights the need for in-depth research into structural change with finer aggregation and measures with different properties. The paper is focused on a specific situation in the Polish economy, for which the relationships have not yet been verified. However, the findings are more universal and may be interesting for any catching-up economy that plans its development policy and needs to focus either on demand- or supply side-relationships. The results suggest rather unidirectional causality running from economic growth to structural change and thus a demand-driven character of the structural modernisation of the Polish economy. This implies the necessity to build stronger inter-sectoral linkages that enable spillover effects that can accelerate growth and induce mutually reinforcing mechanisms of development.
Everyday artificial intelligence unveiled: Societal awareness of technological transformation
Authors: Moravec Vaclav , Hynek Nik , Gavurova Beata , Kubak Matus
Published: July 2024

Research background: As Artificial Intelligence (AI) weaves into the fabric of daily life, its societal and economic implications underscore the urgency of embracing an environment conducive to its informed adoption. This requires a sophisticated understanding of the societal perception and adaptability to AI, emphasizing the importance of developing comprehensive AI literacy. 
Purpose of the article: This study inquiries into the sociodemographic underpinnings of AI literacy, aiming to demystify how knowledge about AI's capabilities in everyday tasks varies across individual population segments. It allows us to define the basic determinants that influence the differences in the individual population structures. It also reveals the potential risks associated with the use of AI.
Methods: This study investigates the awareness of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in daily lives of the Czech population, focusing on the influence of socio-demographic factors. Utilizing computer-assisted web interviewing, we surveyed 1,041 respondents in April 2023, ensuring representativeness by applying quotas for age, gender, education, region, and residential area size. Our investigation spanned AI applications in sectors like customer service, music playlist recommendation, email sorting, healthcare, online shopping, and home devices.
Findings & value added: Findings taken from descriptive statistics reveal variable AI awareness levels across different domains, with younger demographics exhibiting notably lower awareness in several areas. Regression analysis highlighted that awareness is significantly associated with gender, age, and education level. Regression analysis showed that males, younger age groups and those with higher levels of education were more likely to correctly answer majority of questions about the role of AI in everyday life. These insights are crucial for stakeholders aiming to enhance AI literacy, tailor communication strategies, and develop digital platforms, offering guidance for policymakers and market analysts in optimizing AI-related initiatives.
Omissions and Marginalization: Asian American Representation in Art History and Education
Authors: Kim Eunjin
Published: July 2024

Asian Americans have been historically marginalized and underrepresented in U.S. history and education due to stereotypes and the essentialization of diverse ethnicities and cultures. This article explores the exclusion of Asian American arts and artists through the lens of Asian Critical theory. The near invisibility and misunderstanding of Asian American arts have impacted art education, which remains centered on Whiteness and Euro-Western perspectives. To disrupt the status quo, more artists and art educators are striving to enhance the representation of Asian American arts and address the racism against Asian and Asian American communities. The article suggests two pedagogical approaches: (a) designing an inclusive curriculum incorporating diverse representations of Asian American artists; and (b) creating spaces for students to engage in counterstorytelling. It concludes by urging art educators to incorporate Asian American arts and experiences and foster critical discussions on racism against Asian Americans in the U.S. in their teaching and research.
Thoracoscopic removal of cranial mediastinal masses in dogs is associated with a low conversion rate, excellent survival to discharge, and good long-term outcome
Authors: Carroll Kenneth A. , Mayhew Philipp D. , Culp William T. N. , Massari Federico , Peláez Manuel Jiménez , Steffey Michele A. , Giuffrida Michelle , Balsa Ingrid M. , Gibson Erin A. , Farrell Makayla A. , Singh Ameet , Buote Nicole , Scharf Valery F. , Brissot Herve , Thomson Chris
Published: July 2024

OBJECTIVE

To report the complications and outcomes associated with thoracoscopic cranial mediastinal mass resection in dogs.

ANIMALS

49 client-owned dogs that underwent thoracoscopic cranial mediastinal mass removal.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study (January 1, 2014, to July 31, 2023), and the medical records of 49 client-owned dogs that underwent thoracoscopic cranial mediastinal mass removal were reviewed. The signalment, history, clinicopathologic features, perioperative complications, and long-term outcome were recorded.

RESULTS

Preoperative myasthenia gravis (MG) and megaesophagus (ME) were identified in 17 of 49 (35%) dogs and 11 of 49 (22%) dogs, respectively. The median maximal tumor diameter on CT images was 4.7 cm (range, 2.7 to 8.5 cm). Nonemergent conversion to an open procedure was necessary in 4 of 49 (8%) dogs, and dogs with conversion to an open procedure had a significantly larger median maximal CT tumor diameter than dogs without conversion (P = .03). The most common tumor type was thymoma (37/49 [76%]). The overall median survival time for dogs with thymoma was 1,102 days (95% CI, 482 to upper bound not reached). The median survival time for dogs with thymoma and concurrent presurgical MG was 182 days (95% CI, 14 to upper bound not reached). Presurgical diagnosis of MG (P = .44) or ME (P = .69) was not associated with survival time.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Thoracoscopic removal of cranial mediastinal masses was associated with low conversion and complication rates. Long-term survival is possible, and thoracoscopic removal should be considered for select cases.
Physical and sensory properties of berry craft sorbet with inulin and effect of storage on total monomeric anthocyanins
Authors: Leahu Ana , Ghinea Cristina , Ropciuc Sorina
Published: July 2024

Sorbets are sweetened frozen desserts obtained from fruit or fruit juice and are very popular, especially in the summer months. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the addition of inulin and Stevia rebaudiana on the viscosity, hardness, total monomeric anthocyanin (TMA) content and sensory attributes of blueberry and raspberry sorbets. Four types of sorbets were produced from each fruit studied – three with inulin (2, 6 and 8% by weight) and the other without inulin – using fresh fruit with the addition of water, stevia extract powder, pectin and lemon juice. The addition of inulin slightly increased the viscosity of blueberry sorbet and had a statistically insignificant influence on the viscosity of raspberry sorbet. Hardness of the berry craft sorbet samples was influenced more by the addition of 2 and 6% inulin. TMA values ranged from 35.85 ± 1.1 (raspberry sorbet sample and 8% inulin) to 43.00 ± 0.8 (blueberry sorbet sample and 6% inulin) mg cyanidin 3-glucoside/g fresh weight. The results indicated that the addition of 8% inulin led to a slight decrease in TMA values compared to the values obtained for samples without inulin for both types of fruit sorbets. Also, the results showed that TMA values were very constant throughout the storage period. A more intense red color was observed in the raspberry sorbets, which increased with the addition of 2 and 6% inulin. The sorbet with the most pleasant taste was the one with blueberries without added inulin (8.8 ± 0.02), while the sorbet with blueberries and 2% inulin was the least liked by the evaluators (8.05 ± 0.01). The raspberry sorbet (without inulin) obtained the highest score for flavor (9 ± 0.02), while the sorbet with blueberries and 8% inulin obtained the lowest score (8.4 ± 0.04).
δµ
-connectedness in a µ-proximity space
Authors: Dey Dipankar , Mandal Dhananjoy , Mukherjee Manabendra Nath
Published: July 2024

In this paper we introduce the notion of δµ
-connectedness on a µ-proximity space. It has been proved that δµ
-connectedness can be characterized by δµ
-continuous functions. We initiate the idea of δµ
-chain and establish some results related to this. The concepts of δµ
-component and δµ
-quasi component have been introduced and their interrelation has been studied.
Tracking direct and indirect impact on technology and policy of transformative research via ego citation network
Authors: Li Xian , Hu Xiaojun
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The disseminating of academic knowledge to nonacademic audiences partly relies on the transition of subsequent citing papers. This study aims to investigate direct and indirect impact on technology and policy originating from transformative research based on ego citation network.

Design/methodology/approach

Key Nobel Prize-winning publications (NPs) in fields of gene engineering and astrophysics are regarded as a proxy for transformative research. In this contribution, we introduce a network-structural indicator of citing patents to measure technological impact of a target article and use policy citations as a preliminary tool for policy impact.

Findings

The results show that the impact on technology and policy of NPs are higher than that of their subsequent citation generations in gene engineering but not in astrophysics.

Research limitations

The selection of Nobel Prizes is not balanced and the database used in this study, Dimensions, suffers from incompleteness and inaccuracy of citation links.

Practical implications

Our findings provide useful clues to better understand the characteristics of transformative research in technological and policy impact.

Originality/value

This study proposes a new framework to explore the direct and indirect impact on technology and policy originating from transformative research.
Impact of the Apartment’s Window Exposure to World Directions on Transaction Price
Authors: Bas Marcin
Published: July 2024

The purpose of the study is to econometrically estimate the effect of the direction of window exposure on the unit price of housing. The research hypothesis according to which the exposure of windows to the east increases the unit price of apartments is verified, and is based on observations of the market for units in buildings with exposure to two sides of the world (east and west). Research into the various characteristics that affect real estate prices is being conducted around the world. The main focus is on the impact of features which we are certain about, i.e. date, area, number of rooms, etc., i.e. non-contentious and reasonably easy to identify as to the condition of the feature. The results of the study are to capture certain regularities that will give a glimpse of how the exposure of the apartment’s windows to a given direction of the world affected prices. Through the implementation of the survey, it can be determined whether a particular side of the world is better perceived by buyers. The study was conducted on data 2015-2023 in one of Poland’s largest cities - Szczecin, where the exposure of the windows of the apartments was to the east or west.
A Predictive Framework for Photovoltaic Waste Quantities and Recovery Values: Insights and Application to the Italian Context
Authors: Franzoni Andrea , Leggerini Chiara , Bannò Mariasole
Published: July 2024

The global surge in photovoltaic (PV) panel deployment since the 2000s has contributed to advancing the renewable energy sector. However, this proliferation raises concerns about the increasing number of PV modules that will end their operational life in the coming years, necessitating effective planning for their decommissioning and recovery. This paper addresses this imminent challenge by presenting a predictive model to estimate the volume of decommissioned PV modules from existing installations. To consider the variability associated with the operational life duration of PV panels, two different scenarios were considered: early loss and regular loss, both modelled through the Weibull function. Furthermore, the article proposes a methodology for the economic valorization of materials recovered from decommissioned PV modules, according to the different technologies employed. This approach encourages sustainable practices by assigning an economic value to recovered materials and promoting a circular economy in the renewable energy sector. The economic valuation methodology adds practicality to dismantling, emphasising responsible waste management’s potential economic benefits. To illustrate the applicability of the model, the study focuses on the Italian case, providing a detailed regional breakdown. The regional analysis not only improves the accuracy of the predictive model but also offers insights into localised PV module disposal patterns. By adapting the methodology to the individual Italian regions, the article serves as a concrete and valuable resource during the programming and planning phases, facilitating the implementation of a strategy to efficiently recover PV modules and minimising the environmental impact associated with decommissioning activities.
Development of an Interactive E-Module Based On Flipbook Protista Material To Improve Student Biology Learning Outcomes
Authors: Iwan* Iwan , Sirait Silvia Hanna Kusuma , Fahmi Dian
Published: July 2024

The development of a flipbook-based interactive e-module is an innovative step in increasing the effectiveness of biology learning, especially Protista material. Protista is a group of eukaryotic organisms that includes various microorganisms such as protozoa, unicellular algae, and others. This research aims to develop an interactive e-module based on flipbook material on protists that is valid, practical and effective. The research method refers to the analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation development model. The subjects of this research were class X students at Oikomene Manokwari High School, consisting of 24 students. Data collection procedures in the form of a questionnaire to determine validator and student responses to interactive e-modules as well as providing multiple choice questions to measure learning outcomes. Descriptive data analysis technique by calculating validation results and student learning outcomes. The research results showed that the media and material expert validation test results obtained a percentage of 96.67% with a very valid category. The results of the assessment of student responses in large group trials obtained an average percentage of 83.61% in the very practical category. The test results show that the average student learning outcome is 82.21 in the very high category. This research can be concluded that the flipbook-based interactive e-module on protist material meets the criteria of being valid, practical and effective in improving student learning outcomes.
Development of Android-Based Biology Learning Media Plant Tissue-App to Train High School Students' Scientific Argumentation Skills
Authors: Wahyuni* Rindi , Norra Bunga Ihda , Nur Khasanah Rita Ariyana
Published: July 2024

Student centered learning is important to be implemented to improve and develop students' critical thinking and argumentation skills, so that students become active in learning. The importance of thinking in thinking competence in order to compete in the world of technology industry and towards the era of society 5.0 so that in the future Indonesia will become a developed country and human resources can compete internationally. However, in fact, there are still many students who do not like discussion activities with presentations in front of the class. This causes students' argumentation skills to be low and need to be improved. This is influenced by one of the learning media used by teachers still using textbooks. This study aims to produce a product in the form of biology learning media based on the android plant tissue app application that is suitable for use to train high school students' scientific argumentation skills. This study is a research and development (RD) study with the ADDIE model. Data collection was carried out using a Likert scale assessment instrument which was analyzed descriptively qualitatively and quantitatively. The results of this study are the feasibility of media experts by 98% (very feasible), material experts by 74% (feasible), from Biology teachers (81%), and responses from students by 86% (very feasible). These results indicate that the developed media is suitable for use in training high school students' scientific argumentation skills on the focus of plant tissue material.
Exploring Next Generations for a Sustainable Future: A Systematic Literature Review on Sustainability Awareness among High School Students in Indonesia
Authors: Kurdiati Lintang Auliya , Fathurohman* Apit
Published: July 2024

Environmental damage is increasingly evident, from rising global average temperatures and melting polar ice caps to the increasing frequency of extreme weather. This study aims to conduct a literature review related to sustainability awareness among students at the high school level in Indonesia. The research method chosen in this study is a systematic literature review. Data collection is done by documenting all articles that have similar research in this research report. The articles used in this study were 11 articles published in the 2020–2024 period and then used as a reference for review. Based on this literature review research, several important findings were found, namely: (1) sustainability awareness can be identified in various aspects, such as instruments with the distribution of seven articles, gender differences with one article, and the existence of a sustainability awareness category covered in three articles from the total articles reviewed; (2) there are fluctuating trends in sustainability awareness research among high school students in Indonesia; and (3) the distribution of research on sustainability awareness has not been evenly distributed in all provinces in Indonesia, and so far it is still dominated by research conducted in West Java Province. These findings point to the need for equitable distribution of research in different regions to get a more comprehensive picture of the level of sustainability awareness across Indonesia.
THE ROLE OF COGNITIVE STYLE IN THE FORMATION OF PERSONALIZED TRAINING PROGRAMS
Authors: Razumnikova O. M. ,   Novosibirsk State Technical University
Published: July 2024

Cognitive style is one of the most multilevel constructs in psychology, as it combines different approaches to classifying individual characteristics of information processing, decision making and strategies of cognitive activity, including learning efficiency. The expanding possibilities of online learning, not only in the teacher-student format, but also in the brain-computer format, actualize the development of personalized interfaces taking into account the individual cognitive characteristics of users. In this regard, the article presents the results of an analysis of the relationships of cognitive style indicators at the metacognitive level using different approaches to their classification. The study involved 92 students of the Faculty of Humanitarian Education aged 18–23 years. To determine the indicators of extraversion - introversion, sensory – intuition, thinking – feeling and impulsiveness – rationality according to D. Keirsey's method and a profile of thinking styles according to the Harrison-Bramson approach, a computerized program was used with the presentation of the corresponding formulations of situations. Also, the contribution of the approach-avoidance motivation (BIS-BAS system) to the organization of the cognitive style profiles was assessed using the Gray-Wilson questionnaire. It has been shown that analytical and realistic cognitive styles represent the most differentiated ways of organizing style characteristics, and the rational function “thinking” is present in the regression models of these styles, but with a greater effect in the Analyst style. The BIS-BAS systems have been the additional influence on these cognitive styles. Consequently, differences in the information processing by representatives of analytical and realistic styles of thinking together with the motivational component of cognitive activity should be taken into account when developing interface of an educational program with feedback to optimize interaction in the brain-computer system.
Safety measures of Emergency Medical Service (EMS) during COVID-19 pandemic in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alshamrani Abdullelah , Abodrahem Ali , Alshehri Abdulaziz , Alsaiari Rayid , Alshehri Moeed , Alshibani Abdullah
Published: July 2024

The global outbreak of COVID-19 posed difficulties for emergency medical services (EMS) personnel across the globe, including those in Saudi Arabia. The objective of this descriptive study was to evaluate the level of consciousness among EMS personnel in Saudi Arabia concerning COVID-19 prevention approaches and resources, as well as to point out potential areas for improvement. For this study, the data was gathered via surveys that were distributed to a subset of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel. The study revealed that a significant proportion of individuals who were infected with the disease, precisely 32%, acknowledged that they did not adhere to the recommended guidelines for the proper utilization of their personal protective equipment (PPE). This highlights the pressing necessity for improved COVID-19 prevention measures and resources for Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel. Besides, the findings of this research have the potential to provide valuable insights to policymakers, healthcare establishments, and educational institutions in Saudi Arabia. These insights can be used to design evidence-based interventions and initiatives that focus on improving COVID-19 prevention strategies, ensuring an adequate supply of personal protective equipment, and promoting the implementation of clear and effective protocols.
Ethnomedicines in the 21st century: challenges and opportunities in the contemporary world
Authors: Wanzala Wycliffe , Minyoso Sheila I.
Published: July 2024

The ethnomedicine industry inherently developed de novo in the evolutionary history of humanity to provide healthcare services. This industry has existed long before the currently preferred conventional medicine and by then was the only trusted means of healthcare to humanity. Ethnomedicine has evolved and diversified into specializations along ethnic groupings worldwide. Nevertheless, attitude towards ethnomedicine is usually polarized varying from contemptuous dismissal to romantic glorification. Rarely does one come across people with balanced views. The discussion is based on 9 issues: view of ethnoknowledge of health from the early days, discovery and development of ethnomedicines, specializations in ethnomedicines, challenges and limitations, terminologies that shape ethnomedicine industry, merits and demerits of ethnomedicines, existing opportunities and the way forward. The ethnomedicine industry, just like any other field of professionalism, was not without challenges and limitations that affected its realization of full potential. In this discussion, 24 challenges and limitations are outlined but not limited to:- lack of information on standards, safety and efficacy, capacity building of ethnopractitioners, colonialism, climate change, witchcraft, socio-politics, recognition of ethnosystems, research and biased documentation, emerging diseases and pathogens, market value-chain, in-situ and ex-situ conservation, anthropogenic activities, sources of ethnomedicines, legal frameworks, harvesting, preparation, administration and storage methods, gender issues, poor remembrance of ethnomedical knowledge, existence of quackery, sources of ethnomedicines, biopiracy and bioprospecting, lack of mechanisms for monitoring and evaluation of ethnomedicines, advancement in human evolution and civilization, biological evolution and invasive alien species, stigmatisation due to poor perceptions and attitudes about ethnomedicines and competitive supremacy amongst ethnopractitioners and conventional practitioners, have all not favoured the industry. However, the use of ethnomedicines has tremendously increased and continues to increase albeit the above challenges and limitations facing the industry. The challenges and limitations are broadly and critically discussed while outlining opportunities and giving away forward.
Improve the Flexural Behavior of One-Way Ribbed Slab by Using CFRP Sheet
Authors: Jasim Salwa R. , AL-Khafaji Hayder M. J.
Published: July 2024

One of the most important research projects in the recent years is strengthening structures. The significance of these studies was to modify the ability of buildings to withstand high loads without utilizing materials that hurt the environment. Six one-way ribbed slabs were experimentally tested in the present study to determine the effect of carbon fiber reinforcement polymer sheets on the structure. One of the specimens, used as a reference, was unstrengthen. Two specimens were strengthened with carbon sheets on 50% and 100% of the rib width. To prevent sheet debonding, two others used 50-mm-wide U-shaped strips. A complete rib wrap served as the final method of strengthening. All the specimens underwent concentrated load testing to investigate the ultimate capacity, deflection, stiffness, and ductility. According to the findings, all specimen’s deflection decreased in a ratio ranging from 4% in whole rib wrap to 46%. Also, the stiffness increased in all specimens, and the width of the carbon sheet insignificantly affected the stiffness, while the way of strengthening did. In the end, strengthening with 50% width has no discernible effect on the ultimate load (3%), whereas strengthening with 100% width raised by 41%, while adding U-shaped stripes increased the ultimate load capacity by 74% and completely wrapping the ribs increased by 132%.
Cyanobacteria-ferrihydrite aggregates, BIF sedimentation and implications for Archaean- Palaeoproterozoic seawater geochemistry
Authors: Li Y. , Sutherland B.R. , Ilin A.M. , Schad M. , Robbins L.J. , Kappler A. , Yusta I. , Sánchez-España J. , Owttrim G.W. , Dreher C.L. , Smith A.J.B. , Alessi D.S. , Gingras M.K. , Konhauser K.O.
Published: July 2024

Precambrian banded iron formations (BIFs) are iron- and silica-rich (bio)chemical sediments that are widely believed to have been precipitated by microbial oxidation of dissolved Fe(II). The by-product of these metabolisms – insoluble ferric iron – would have settled through the water column, often as aggregates with the cell biomass. While the mineralogy, composition and physical properties of cell-iron mineral aggregates formed by anaerobic Fe(II)-oxidising photoferrotrophic bacteria have been extensively studied, there are limited studies that characterise cyanobacteria-iron mineral aggregates that formed during oxygenic photosynthesis. This gap in knowledge is important because it impacts sedimentation velocities and the Fe(III) to organic carbon (Corg) ratios in the marine sediment pile. Here, we used a recently introduced approach to precisely measure the sedimentation velocity of cyanobacteria-ferrihydrite aggregates and the Fe(III):Corg ratios of the cyanobacteria-ferrihydrite aggregates over a wide range of pH and initial Fe(II) concentrations under predicted Palaeoproterozoic atmospheric conditions. Our results indicate that it was highly unlikely BIFs formed at pH <7 via chemical oxidation due to the insufficient sedimentation velocity, even at the maximum predicted Fe(II) concentration of 1800 μM with excess oxygen. Instead, large Banded Iron Formation (BIF) deposits, such as those associated with the ca. 2.47 Ga Kuruman Formation in South Africa, would only had been deposited at minimum Fe(II) concentrations of 500 μM at pH 7 or 250 μM at pH 8. The Fe:Corg ratios in cyanobacteria-ferrihydrite sediments formed during initially anoxic Fe(II) oxidation experiments represent the maximum values under each condition because we specifically extracted samples after all Fe(II) was oxidised. The Fe(III) to organic carbon ratio was consistently below 4, which is also the ratio required for dissimilatory Fe(III) reduction (DIR). This result indicates that biomass in this case was in excess, which contradicts the low organic carbon content seen in most BIFs. Thus, we suggest that biomass was either physically separated from ferrihydrite aggregates during sedimentation under the influence of ocean currents and waves, or it was degraded prior to DIR. The mineralogical and geochemical evidences of both oxide and carbonate facies from the Kuruman Iron Formation (IF) suggest that ferrihydrite was most likely the precursor along with a significant initial organic carbon input, supporting the proposed cyanobacterially-mediated BIF depositional model and experimental results.
A hot, hydrothermally influenced microbial-tidal flat setting in the Palaeoarchaean Moodies Group, Barberton Greenstone Belt, South Africa
Authors: Stengel H. , Heubeck C. , Homann M.
Published: July 2024

Sandy, microbial-mat-laminated sediments are common in estuarine and tidal environments of the Palaeoarchean Moodies Group (ca. 3.22 Ga); they are interspersed with numerous expressions of mafic to intermediate (sub-) volcanism, including sills, stockwork dykes, lavas, and air-fall tuffs. We describe abundant fluid-escape structures up to 6 m in height associated with this facies in the Saddleback Syncline of the central Barberton Greenstone Belt. The fluid-escape conduits fed small sand volcanoes during prolonged and/or recurring discharge of gases, liquids, and solids. They are filled by sand, sericitic clay, and fine-grained organic matter of former microbial mats. In comparison to the mean composition of adjacent beds of identical composition, the conduits are enriched in Fe, Cr, Ti, and Mg. This suggests that fluid-escape was not only a consequence of overpressure buildup from decaying microbial mats in the shallow subsurface or of water-level fluctuations but also due to periodic or continuous release of hydrothermal fluids circulating in the thermal aureole above the cooling Lomati River Sill of Moodies age. Such an inference is also supported by textures characteristic of in-place argillaceous and sericitic alteration and by Raman spectroscopy of carbonaceous matter (RSCM) indicating temperatures ca. 50 to 100°C above the regional maximum metamorphic temperature of 320 to 380°C. Pre-compaction carbonate and/or silica cementation also preserved the abundant carbonaceous laminae interpreted as benthic microbial mats. Analogue recent hot spring deposits suggest that surficial hydrothermal activity in the medium-energy siliciclastic tidal zone would have significantly boosted microbial growth.
Placing constraints on the age and origin of basaltic dykes on the Ghaap Plateau, Griqualand West, South Africa
Authors: Ngobeli R. , Wabo H. , Vorster C. , de Kock M.O.
Published: July 2024

Well-preserved strata of the Ghaap Plateau along the western margin of the proto-Kalahari Craton have been intruded by a large number of mafic dykes. Owing to the scarcity of outcrops, these dykes are generally not well documented and intrusion ages remain poorly understood. In order to address this lack of knowledge, a total of seventeen Ghaap Plateau dykes that included seven north-northeast to northeast-trending dykes, eight northwest-trending dykes and two east to east-northeast-trending dykes were sampled for this study. Here, we report on the petrography and whole rock geochemistry of these dykes. We also report three new U-Pb baddeleyite ages along with some palaeomagnetic data. The mineralogy of the dykes is dominated by clinopyroxene and plagioclase showing varying degrees of alteration. Whole rock geochemical data identify the dykes as basalts with MORB, E-MORB or within plate-like signatures, suggesting an asthenospheric magma source. Our study indicates that the Ghaap Plateau dykes represent several magmatic events of markedly different age. Based on their whole rock geochemical composition, all but one of the dyke samples are tentatively arranged into four distinct groups (Groups A to D). Group A dykes (four dykes) are compositionally similar to the Umkondo Large Igneous Province (LIP). Two north-northeast-trending dykes of this Group yielded overlapping U-Pb baddeleyite ages of 1 103 ± 84 Ma and 1 112 ± 55 Ma, thereby adding to the known footprint of the Umkondo LIP along the western margin of the proto-Kalahari craton. In Group B (four dykes), one northeast-trending dyke yielded a U-Pb baddeleyite age of 1 929 ± 17 Ma. Its palaeomagnetic signature (Lat. 24.5°, Long. 317.6°, A95= 14.20°) is supported by a positive baked contact test and agrees well with the ~1.93 Ga Hartley LIP palaeopole. Group B dykes are thus interpreted to be related to the Hartley LIP, with our new 1 929 ± 17 Ma age supporting a wider extent for the Hartley magmatism than previously known. A new palaeopole for the Hartley LIP (Lat. 22.3°, Long. 327.4°, A 95 = 9.25°) was calculated by combining the data of our 1 929 Ma dyke with data reported previously from other sites. Whole rock geochemical data for the remaining dykes are consistent with the Karoo magmatism (two east to east-northeast-trending dykes of Group D) or the ~2.4 Ga Ongeluk LIP (north-trending dyke). The final four dykes (Group C) are difficult to match with other known mafic units. Precise geochronology is needed to confirm the exact age of these unassigned dykes.
Unveiling the Employability Landscape: Chinese International Doctoral Students in Malaysian Universities
Authors: Hu Hengzhi , Wang Wanyu
Published: July 2024

Malaysia has been actively striving to establish itself as an international education hub, and has successfully attracted a significant influx of Chinese international students pursuing their doctoral degrees. However, doubts persist regarding the quality of Malaysia’s higher education and the employability of its graduates, particularly when viewed through the lens of stakeholders in China’s labour market. This research sought to address these concerns by delving into the essential graduate attributes highly regarded by Chinese doctoral students enrolled in Malaysian universities and identifying aspects of Malaysian higher education that might influence students’ employability. Employing a qualitative approach, the research underscores the significance of various types of capital, with a considerable emphasis on human capital, encompassing academic qualifications, research competence, and English proficiency. Additionally, it sheds light on the pivotal role of quality research supervision, the availability of continuous training opportunities and psychological support within the programme, and the degree of collaboration between Malaysian universities and Chinese industry as factors critically impacting the participants’ perceived employability. These findings aim to offer essential guidance for educational institutions and policymakers in aligning academic programmes with the evolving demands of the global labour market.
Bibliometric Coloniality in South Africa: Critical Review of the Indexes of Accredited Journals
Authors: Heleta Savo , Mzileni Pedro
Published: July 2024

Bibliometric coloniality refers to the system of domination of global academic publishing by bibliometric indexes based in the Global North, which serve as gatekeepers of academic relevance, credibility, and quality. These indexes are dominated by journals from Europe and North America. Due to bibliometric coloniality, scholarly platforms and academic research from the African continent and much of the Global South are largely invisible on the global stage. In this article, we analyse the geographic coverage of five international indexes that are part of the Department of Higher Education and Training’s (DHET) lists of accredited journals in South Africa, and unpack systemic and structural factors behind the DHET’s choices. Our analysis shows that the DHET’s lists of accredited journals propagate and value academic journals based in the Global North as credible platforms for dissemination of knowledge, while erasing the African continent and Global South. This way, the DHET is directly reinforcing global bibliometric coloniality and contributing to the maintenance of Euro-American epistemic hegemony. We argue that South Africa, as Africa’s top producer of scholarly output, should lead the process of dismantling bibliometric coloniality and promoting African knowledge platforms. Working closely with other African countries and the African Union on the creation of an African scholarly index would be the first step in this process. However, neoliberalisation of higher education and the lack of political will to tackle coloniality of knowledge are preventing this from happening.
Liga Acadêmica de enfermagem em Saúde da Mulher e suas contribuições para a disseminação do conhecimento
Authors: Muniz Ramily Ramos , Silva Talita Fernandes de Lima , Nunes Suzana dos Santos
Published: July 2024

Objetivo: Relatar as experiências das acadêmicas da Universidade Federal do Amazonas (UFAM) em uma Liga Acadêmica de Saúde da Mulher. Relato de experiência: Trata-se de um relato de experiência realizado por meio da participação das discentes na Liga Acadêmica de Enfermagem em Saúde da Mulher (LAESM), cuja criação proporcionou às participantes e à população alcançada um valioso conhecimento a respeito da saúde feminina. As atividades da Liga começaram no mês de março de 2022, quando foi promovida educação em saúde sobre a vacinação contra o HPV. As atividades foram realizadas em cinco escolas de um município do Estado do Amazonas. Já em outubro de 2022, que é o mês de conscientização sobre o câncer de mama, as ações da LAESM foram voltadas à educação em saúde a respeito dessa temática. As participantes realizaram ações de educação em saúde nas Unidades Básicas de Saúde do município e também em residências que as UBSs abrangiam. Considerações finais: A participação em uma liga acadêmica de saúde da mulher trouxe às discentes uma experiência de aprendizado e uma vivência de valor incalculável. Espera-se que o presente relato encoraje a criação e a participação dos acadêmicos em ligas estudantis.