bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The verifiable origin of the manifestations that are attributed to infectious agent transmission on the basis of analogy
Authors: Ola Paul
Published: October 2024

For as long as it has been concluded on the basis of the similarity between the microscopic entities to which attention is called by the clearly different manifestations in patients with a particular diagnosis, that the origin of such manifestations lies in the transmission of a specific “infectious agent,” it has remained impossible to prevent their worsening towards deaths and disabilities with precision. Following the principle in Sun Tzu’s ‘Art of War,’ that the source of the foreknowledge by which the most successful armies in history decisively defeated the enemies of their people is not analogy but the findings of people who know the enemy situation, we chose to investigate the origin of such manifestations with the method of General Relativity, which requires medical foreknowledge to begin in the findings of those clinicians who fight the actual enemies of patients at the bedside. The results enable us to verifiably show here that the focus of research towards furnishing the foreknowledge that the “medical army” requires to defeat these enemies ought to be the investigation of a “deconditioning factor” that causes the failure of the mechanisms that render the illnesses that persist due to the absence of recovery unapparent or asymptomatic by means of myoglobin, even when the precipitation of severity by silently harbored microscopic entities is so intense that sudden death occurs before the detection of these entities when such apparent health mechanisms fail.
Coseismic slip and afterslip of the 2024 Hyuganada earthquake modulated by subducted seamount
Authors: Itoh Yuji
Published: October 2024

Subducted rough topography complicates seismic and aseismic slip behavior. The 2024 M 7.1 Hyuganada earthquake occurred along the megathrust with ridge subduction. We inferred coseismic slip and afterslip using geodetic displacements to observationally illustrate the role of subducted seamounts in modulating seismic and aseismic slip processes. The inferred mainshock was confined in the down-dip of the seamount, suggesting that the seamount impeded the mainshock rupture initiated under enhanced compression. The inferred afterslip peaked at the up-dip of the mainshock peak with four aftershock clusters. Various onset timings of these clusters suggest the afterslip front migration slowed down when passing through the seamount. An along-strike neighbor segment of the mainshock peak was left unruptured during the afterslip, but whether this segment causes another earthquake remains elusive only with the available observations. Our results geodetically highlight the mechanical heterogeneity of megathrust with ridge subduction at an order of 10 km.
Increased adverse health outcomes in sexual minority populations exposed to stressful childhood experiences: a meta-analysis
Authors: Patel Herry
Published: October 2024

Within sexual- and gender-minority (SGM) populations, stressful childhood experiences (SCEs) impact health outcomes in adulthood. We conducted a meta-analysis of the impact of SCEs on health outcomes among SGM populations. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 64 independent studies from 2013-2022 was conducted. Seven health outcomes were identified: psychological health (k = 26), suicide and related behaviors (k=23), substance use (k=14), sexual health (k=13), physical health (k=5), housing instability (k=3), and adulthood abuse/victimization (k=2) with meta-analyses for each health outcome finding increased odds (31-132%) for developing an adverse health outcome in adulthood following SCEs among SGM individuals. These increased odds highlight the need to assess for SCEs in research and clinical practice. Beyond research and clinical practice, these findings yield critical policy implications for creating environments to mitigate the impact of SCEs on health outcomes for SGM individuals.
Parallel Acquisition of Uncorrelated Sequences is Hard to Find
Authors: Barth Marius , Stahl Christoph
Published: October 2024

The distinction between implicit and explicit learning is fundamental to theories of human learning. However, it remains an open question whether implicit and explicit learning are based on a single, unitary learning meachnism, or multiple learning mechanisms or systems. The dual-systems model (Keele, Ivry, Mayr, Hazeltine, & Heuer, 2003) posits that, in addition to a multidimensional learning system that is accessible to consciousness, implicit learning may also proceed in a unidimensional learning. Learning in this system is considered to proceed within a set of dimension-specific, encapsulated processing modules, where strong separation between different kinds of information protects against interference. Parallel acquisition of multiple uncorrelated sequences has been considered crucial evidence in favor of encapsulated processing. However, recent work has demonstrated that parallel learning is also well accounted for by a single learning mechanism, and can therefore not provide convincing evidence for encapsulated processing. In a series of three experiments, we therefore aimed at testing the assumption of encapsulated processing more stringently. To this aim, we orthogonally manipulated sequences of stimulus and response features, and tested for selective influence of these sequences on the cognitive processes that are involved in SRTT performance. In Experiments 1 and 2, stimulus colors and response locations followed independent six-item probabilistic sequences. In Experiment 3, stimulus colors and stimulus locations followed such independent sequences. Replicating previous findings, we found learning of sequences of response locations. By contrast, we consistently found evidence against learning of sequences of stimulus colors or stimulus locations. First implications for the debate on encapsulated processing, and the organization of sequence learning systems, are discussed.
Does Racial Identity Moderate Psychological Effects of Racial Discrimination? Converging Results from Experimental and Survey Data
Authors: Gobrial Sarah , Lui P. Priscilla
Published: October 2024

Psychological distress that stems from racial discrimination experiences may depend on how strongly individuals identify with their race. Existing findings across survey research and a small body of experimental research are equivocal on whether and how racial identity factors exacerbate or buffer the negative psychological effects of racial discrimination. This study included experimental and survey data to characterize the moderating roles of racial identity centrality, private regard, and public regard in the associations between racial discrimination and psychological distress. Participants were 240 young adults of color (Mage=23.27; 50.8% women; 37.5% Asian American, 35.4% Hispanic/Latino, 15.8% Black/African American; 56.7% college students). Findings generally converged across experimental and survey methods. Simulated racial discrimination predicted acute psychological distress and measured lifetime racial discrimination predicted general psychological distress, but racial identity factors did not moderate these associations. Considerations for these null results and future research directions are discussed.
Efficacy of Mindfulness-Based Intervention on Spiritual Outcomes in Women with Advanced Cancer: Study Protocol of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Phillips Brenda Caldwell
Published: October 2024

Objective: Few randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have examined the impact of mindfulness-based interventions on spirituality. In the proposed study, we aim to assess the efficacy of a second-generation mindfulness intervention (SG-MBI) on spiritual distress, spiritual decline, and spiritual growth in women with advanced cancer. A secondary aim is to examine the impact of the intervention on psychological distress, including anxiety and depressive symptoms, loneliness, nonattachment to self, and self-transcendent states. A third aim is to explore any benefit of nature immersion on intervention outcomes. Method: This study will utilize a three-arm RCT with wait-list control design. A total of 198 women will be randomly assigned to one of two intervention groups (treatment indoors/outdoors) or wait-list control group. Participants in the 8-week intervention groups will be introduced to Buddhist-derived wisdom practices that draw upon the sublime attitudes or abodes (Sanskrit: brahmavihārā): compassion (Sanskrit: karuṇā), loving kindness (Sanskrit: maitrī), appreciative joy (muditā), and equanimity (Sanskrit: upekṣā). Assessments will be conducted at three time points: before random allocation and post-intervention at 8 weeks and 20 weeks. Proposed Analytic Plan: Linear mixed models will be used for intention-to-treat (ITT) primary analyses. Per-protocol (PP), subgroup, and secondary outcome analyses will also be conducted. Results will provide critical information about the utility of SG-MBIs for meeting the spiritual and psychological needs of women with advanced cancer.
DNA Methylation, Environmental Adversities and Attention Problems in Children Born Very Preterm
Authors: Kazi Samiha , Lester Barry M. , Everson Todd M , Marsit Carmen J. , Carter Brian S. , Check Jennifer , Helderman Jennifer B. , Hofheimer Julie A , McGowan Elisabeth C. , Neal Charles R. , Pastyrnak Steven L. , Smith Lynne M. , O’Shea T. Michael , Camerota Marie
Published: October 2024

Children born preterm are at higher risk of attention problems compared to children born at term, yet not all preterm children are affected. The purpose of this study was to identify epigenetic predictors of early childhood attention problems among children born very preterm and to examine the joint role of epigenetic and environmental factors in predicting attention problems in this population. We studied 242 participants from a multi-site study of infants born less than 30 weeks gestational age. Neonatal buccal swabs were assayed for DNA methylation levels at over 450,000 CpG sites and age acceleration metrics were calculated using existing epigenetic clocks. A composite of postnatal environmental adversity was calculated using maternal reported risk factors. Attention problems were assessed in early childhood (mean age 6.58 years) using the Conner’s Kiddie Continuous Performance Test 2nd Edition. After adjustment for multiple testing, we found that DNA methylation of 9 CpG sites was associated with childhood attention problems. Several CpGs were located in genes previously linked to neurodevelopmental traits and inflammation in prior epigenome-wide and genome-wide association studies. Greater environmental adversity was also associated with increased attention problems. When tested together, DNA methylation and environmental adversity independently predicted attention problems. This study is the first to show associations between DNA methylation, environmental adversity, and objectively measured attention problems in school-age children born very preterm. These results could shed light on the etiology of attention problems in this population and may help us identify at birth preterm children at highest risk for later ADHD diagnosis.
Convex Hull Applications to Natural Language Psychometrics
Authors: Guenole Nigel , Samo Andrew , Sun Tianjun , D'Urso E. Damiano
Published: October 2024

Psychological measurement plays a vital role in many areas of science. Traditional methods for developing and scoring measurement instruments require large sets of human responses, making them time-consuming and costly. Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) offer new ways to tackle these challenges. In this brief note, we explore the use of convex hulls—a concept from computational geometry—in combination with AI-driven large language models to enhance psychometric practice. A convex hull is the smallest convex boundary around a set of points. By treating language embeddings as high-dimensional coordinates and forming convex hulls, we can interpret the structure of items and free text responses in new ways. We propose two novel applications of convex hulls: (1) item analysis without data: We use convex hulls to check if a test item “belongs” to a scale, providing a new indicator of item quality; and (2) scoring free text: By interpreting candidate responses in relation to the convex hull of other responses, we propose an objective way to score psychological constructs from natural language. Each application is possible in supervised and unsupervised modes. These methods are experimental and yet to be validated. We outline, but do not implement, brief methods for testing their efficacy. We discuss open questions that we expect will impact the utility of these methods, such as a) why we do not ask the LLM to score the items and responses, b) what the measurement scale of the proximity scores is c) why we preferred convex hull centroids over clustering and scale embedding means d) what happens of the construct hull does not match the intended target and e) what centroids and other hull attributes represent (e.g., the intensity or essence of constructs) and the implications for item analysis and scoring.
Understanding Discrimination in College Admissions: A Field Experiment
Authors: Melo Vitor , Rocha Hugo Vaca Pereira , Sigaud Liam , Warren Patrick L. , Gaddis S. Michael
Published: October 2024

We examine the extent and mechanisms by which race affects the college admissions process. We provide evidence from a field experiment where fictitious applicants request application fee waivers from all university admissions counselors in the United States. White applicants are much more likely to receive a waiver, be informed that the application is free, or receive a request for more information than Black or Asian applicants. Our results contrast sharply with previous evidence from acceptance decisions showing bias in favor of Black applicants. We introduce a model of university pricing and use information from counselors' LinkedIn and university profiles, along with university characteristics, to test predictions. We find evidence consistent with agent-taste-based discrimination, where biases stem from counselors' preferences, and profit-maximizing statistical discrimination. Discrimination in university admissions can vary substantially based on the context in which decisions are made.
Demetra of the Steppes: The Climatic History of the Turks
Authors: Knar Eldar
Published: October 2024

Several historical episodes of Turks during periods of climatic extremes have been examined. In particular, several key dates (536–537, 627, 1259, 1783, and 1884) mark significant periods of anomalous climatic and meteorological upheavals of pan-Eurasian and global importance.The role of epidemiological factors in political, social, and economic events in the lives of nomadic civilizations has also been highlighted.The conclusion drawn is that climatic and ecological conditions had a significant influence on the history of the nomadic peoples of the Great Steppe and Kazakhstan.
Bong Hits 4 Jesus: An Analytic History of Morse v. Frederick (2007).
Authors: Wang Micah
Published: October 2024

Perhaps the most memorable moment of the 2002 Winter Olympics was Steven Bradbury’s comical gold-medal finish in the 1,000-meter speed skating competition, where he became an Australian hero by winning their first gold due to an iconic pile-up in the final corner. Despite the notoriety of his victory, it has yet to have any notable effects on the American judicial system. Instead, this paper discusses the Supreme Court’s ruling on an event that happened during the Olympic Torch Relay.
Making Sense of Digital Nomadism, Workplace Surveillance and Resistance
Authors: Bishop Nathan
Published: October 2024

Workplace surveillance is a common occurrence in many traditional workplaces and excessive forms can lead to resistance efforts from employees. However, most of the literature on this topic has been focused on the traditional office worker. There is now a new evolutionary worker that goes against social norms by travelling around the world while working remotely, the Digital Nomad. Therefore, this article aims to incorporate Digital Nomads into workplace surveillance research. This resulted in the research question “How does the Digital Nomad lifestyle interact with workplace surveillance and resistance acts”. To answer this, 5 semi-structured interviews were conducted on Digital Nomads recruited from social media platforms. Interview transcripts were analysed using thematic data analysis where 3 main themes were identified: Shift from Traditional Restraints, Perks of Elite Workers, Panopticon’s Future. Overall, Digital Nomads did not experience intensive surveillance and findings supported the idea that they are productive, elite workers, opting to work for employers that do not monitor their employees. It was also found that Digital Nomads take part in minor acts of resistance, but they were not actively resisting their employers. These results suggest the need for future researchers to further expand upon the status of the Digital Nomad worker and explore their experiences of workplace surveillance and resistance.
Gender wise comparative study of mesiodistal width of crown among patients attending Dhulikhel Hospital
Authors: Basnyat S KC , Bhattarai M , Adhikari RB
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Tooth dimension is an important consideration in treatment planning as the size of teeth is required for replacement or restoration. The aim of this study was to determine the mesiodistal width of six anterior natural teeth in maxilla. This would be helpful in selecting artificial teeth and also for better esthetics.
Methods: The sample consists of 368 patients (184 male 184 female) visiting the Dental Outpatient Department of Dhulikhel Hospital for a period of 3 months (November 2022 to January 2023). Impression of maxillary arches were made with alginate and poured in dental stone. Measurement of widest mesiodisatal width of labial surface of anterior six teeth was done with the digital vernier caliper by two observers on the casts. Independent t test was applied to compare the mean measurement between gender. Statistical analysis was done using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS version 21). The level of significance was set at p-value <0.05.
Results: Mesiodistal width of both right and left maxillary central incisor, lateral incisor and canine were significantly higher in males than in females (p<0.001, p<0.001and p<0.001, respectively).
Conclusions: Statistically significant difference was observed in mesiodistal tooth width between males and females, where the males showed higher mean values. The results of the mesiodistal tooth width obtained could be helpful to dental practitioners in prosthodontic and esthetic treatment planning.
Study, Evaluation, and Monitoring of Bridge Bearing in Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC)
Authors: Gautam Bishnu Gupt , Kim Chang Kyu
Published: October 2024

The study starts by going over the several kinds of bridge bearings that are frequently used, such as friction pendulum, pot, and elastomeric bearings. It examines particular difficulties and demands these bearings have in ABC practice including their quick installation, off-site construction, and compatibility with prefabricated bridge components. By addressing the unique challenges and requirements of bridge bearings, including their evaluation and long-term monitoring, this research and contributes to the advancement of accelerated construction techniques, ultimately leading to safer, more efficient, and cos infrastructure solutions.
Forecasting Traffic and Toll Revenue for Kathmandu-Terai/Madhesh Fast Track Expressway
Authors: Lamsal Sandesh , Khatiwada Purushartha , Pradananga Rojee , Shrestha Pradeep Kumar , Marsani Anil
Published: October 2024

Analysis of traffic forecasting and toll revenue projections for the Kathmandu-Terai/Madhesh Fast Track  (KTFT) Expressway, which is Nepal's first Expressway connecting Kathmandu to Nijgadh. The analysis involves an Origin-Destination survey, traffic assignments and projections, and an evaluation of toll earnings. Traffic assignment of the existing traffic between Kathmandu various regional zones in Nepal shows an estimated 40% diversion of traffic to the KTFT Expressway. Utilising daily volume records of Department of Roads (DoR) for Nagdhunga and Banepa Bardibas highway sections, a projected daily traffic volume of 11957 passenger car unit (PCU) was determined for the base year 2024. Traffic forecasts for 2035, 2045 and 2055 were made by projecting the base year traffic and considering a generated traffic of 30% of the diverted traffic for each subsequent year. Growth rates for different vehicle types were projected using elasticity method with GDP as an indicator. The total daily traffic projected for 2035, 2045 and 2055 is 30922 PCU, 48789 PCU and 70724 PCU, respectively representing approximately 2.59, 4.08, 5.91 times the base year volume. A toll pricing structure, in accordance with the guidelines in the National Highway Fee Rules (NHFR-2008) has been proposed. Under this toll structure, projected daily total revenue for years 2035, 2045, and 2055 are estimated to be NRs 60.53 lakhs, NRs 160.62 lakhs, and NRS 251.40 lakhs, respectively. Comparison of this revenue with the construction and maintenance costs of the project indicates an estimated payback period of 35 years to break even on the construction cost.
Evaluating Traffic Dispersal to and from Kathmandu Terai Fast Track Expressway within Kathmandu Valley's Road Network
Authors: Shrestha Pragyan , Pandey Sajan , Bashyal Sanjeev , Pradhananga Rojee , Shrestha Pradeep Kumar , Marsani Anil
Published: October 2024

The Kathmandu Terai Fast Track (KTFT) Expressway aims to bolster connectivity between Kathmandu valley and Nepal’s Terai region. Despite its potential benefits in enhancing economic development and accessibility, the project poses challenges due to the existing poor road network and traffic congestion in Kathmandu valley. This study assigns projected KTFT traffic to and from the road network in Kathmandu valley based on detailed origin-destination information. It discusses potential transport infrastructure interventions to facilitate traffic dispersion and analyses link performance using flow and volume-to-capacity (v/c) ratios with and without such interventions for the projected traffic in the next three decades. Assignment results indicated potential heavy congestion in the western area of the valley road network, particularly along Dakshinkali road, Khokana-Nakkhu Road, Kalanki-Gongabu Road and Kalanki-Thankot Road in the coming decades. Improvements of the Dakshinkali road, corridor roads and links to Thankot and Nakkhu along with addition of a tunnel in Chobhar area showed significant improvement in the performance of the network links.
Extension of Time and Liquidated Damage Issue in Construction Contract: Nepalese Legal Provision and Practice
Authors: Shrestha Binod
Published: October 2024

The construction project in Nepal is severely facing the problems of on-time project completion. Poor planning preparation, and ad-hoc methods of fixing the project completion duration and milestones create confusion and disputes in the construction industry. In numerous construction projects, new project completion dates are fixed to complete the work. The side effects of the extension of time to complete the work are cost overrun, time overrun, disputes, etc. Public Procurement Act 2007 and Public Procurement Regulation 2007 has provisions to address this delay issue. The FIDIC condition of the contract has also similar to legal provisions as Nepalese Act and Regulations. The Supreme Court of Nepal has also made a landmark decision about the liabilities after the entitlement extension of time to accomplish the project. It is the collective effort of all stakeholders to finish the project on stipulated time.
„Okruchy”. Studia o wierszach odnalezionych w rękopisach XVII wieku
Authors: Barłowska Maria
Published: October 2024

Tempus edax rerum – this is true also accordingly to texts, especially these (what is crucial and specific for 17th Polish culture) written only in manuscripts. “The Crumbs” is a collection of studies presenting discovered in silva rerum, completely unknown, or lost poems (edited in annexes). Their diversity and curiosity (there are here nobel erotics, Polish Brother’s religion poetry, poems created during Moscow captivity, and clocks ekphrases) not only attracts attention but also enriches the Polish old literature image. It, by some details, brings closer to important patterns of Polish baroque tradition and mentality.
Ink of Innovation: Exploring ChatGPT and Other AI-Writing Tools in an English as Medium of Instruction Context
Authors: Baumgart Joanna , Bohle-Jurok Ulrike , Mandl Thomas
Published: October 2024

This paper investigates the influence of AI tools on academic writing within the English as a Medium of Instruction (EMI) framework, focusing on two cohorts in an Information Ethics course. Through an exploratory study, the research scrutinises the incorporation of AI tools at different stages of the academic text production process. The data analysis shows the widespread use of AI tools throughout all phases of academic writing and reveals a departure from the conventional sequence of writing stages. Furthermore, the research sheds light on the substantial impact of tool selection on the intricacies of the writing process. The findings underscore the necessity of bridging the gap between theoretical awareness and the practical application of AI in academic writing, particularly addressing the observed cognitive overextension related to generative AI. Finally, this study advocates for the recognition and development of academic AI competence, acknowledging the influence of AI on scholarly communication
Taking Advantage of Using 3D Virtual Reality in Tourism: Case of Berati Ethnographic Museum
Authors: Shurdhi Sokol , Zeneli Gazmend
Published: October 2024

Berat is one of the most beautiful places in Albania, attracting thou­sands of tourists. The Ethnographic Museum, a former traditional house, today reassessed as a city museum represents one of the main attractions. The sur­rounding urban context in the proximity of the building presents some anal­ogies with the organic structure of the historic quarters. Virtual travel is an in­novative form of tourism where users can experience a place by being actively and meaningfully engaged with the history, people, culture, artefacts and en­vironment of a specific historical period. Our goal was to create a user-friend­ly platform that empowers users with easy access to a vast range of cultural re­sources, thereby enhancing their overall experience. The proposed virtual tour is going to be a step forward in the museum sector because it will offer users a different experience based on interactivity thanks to 3D Virtual Reality.
Examining the Attitudes of the Local Population about Tourism Impacts on Rural Precincts of Serbia
Authors: Podovac Milena , Alkier Romina
Published: October 2024

Considering that the rural precincts of Serbia are recognized as an exceptional potential for tourism development, it is necessary to exam­ine the impact of this economic activity on the local population and their quality of life. For that reason, an empirical study was conducted on a sam­ple of 347 participants, who live in rural precincts of Serbia. Based on the theoretical analysis, the statements were defined, which are related to eco­nomic, environmental, socio-cultural, and physical tourism impacts. The ex­istence of significant differences in the attitudes of the local population re­garding their characteristics has also been analyzed. The research results indicated that the rural residents in Serbia have positive attitudes towards tourism development. The key conclusion was that education partially in­fluences the attitudes of the local population about tourism impacts on ru­ral precincts of Serbia. The findings also enable the identification of research limitations and the guidelines for further research.
Comparative Analysis of Tourism Safety and Security Indicators – Bulgaria and Neighbouring Countries
Authors: Ivanova Petya
Published: October 2024

This research aims to study, analyze and evaluate the degree of security and safety of the following destinations: Bulgaria, Serbia, Romania, North Macedonia and Turkey. The methodology includes a combina­tion of research methods such as desk research, content analysis, compara­tive method, etc. The analytical part is based on publicly available, officially published data of established methodology of the World Economic Forum. The conclusions are mainly in two directions: first, indicators according to which Bulgaria is in strong and weak positions compared to neighbouring countries, and second, the positions of the studied countries in the interrela­tionship of the travel and tourism development index – security and safety. The originality of this chapter lies in the comparison between the countries and delineating the similarities in the region and the differences of the indi­vidual countries as safe destinations. It can be used for future analyses of the quality of the destination tourism supply. This chapter can influence and en­courage other future comparisons ranging from the assessment of region­al differences in various aspects of tourism development to the multifaceted perspectives of ensuring security and safety.
Intellectual Capital in Hospitality: A Panel Data Regression on Hotel Brand Financial Performance
Authors: Pavlovic Goran , Stojanovic Milos , Nikolic Tosovic Marija
Published: October 2024

This research aims to examine the impact of intellectual capital on the financial performance of the hotel brand. Beyond human and struc­tural capital, the study underscores the significance of relational capital in fortifying a hotel brand. Consequently, strategic investments in diverse in­tangible assets within the hotel industry are posited to enhance brand val­ue, thereby elevating financial performance. The empirical analysis, encom­passing 29 hotels in the Republic of Serbia from 2018 to 2022, through pan­el data regression, illuminates a statistically significant and positive correla­tion between intellectual capital and brand financial performance. This correlation underscores the tangible impact of intellectual capital and oth­er non-material assets, such as brand, on the hotel financial performance
Evaluation of the Potential Consequences of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Exacerbation of Corporate Crises within the Hotel Industry in the Touristic Region Banska Bystrica in Slovakia
Authors: Stanley Renáta , Pakšiová Renáta
Published: October 2024

This chapter aims to examine the companies in crisis operat­ing in the hotel industry in the Banska Bystrica Region in Slovakia, which have encountered financial difficulties and the possible consequences of the pandemic COVID-19 on their financial situation. For the research of com­panies in crisis, there were data obtained from a publicly available online state resource for the monitored period of 2018-2020. The hotel, hospitality and tourism industries are generally considered to be the most significant­ly affected by COVID-19. Many companies had their operations temporar­ily closed and some were unable to reopen. Several companies in this sec­tor have thus fallen into crisis. Companies in crisis refer to those that are in bankruptcy or at risk of bankruptcy. To identify companies in crisis, the au­thors conducted a financial analysis of the financial statements of selected companies, which are presented in this chapter.
Do Tourism Indicators Have an Influence on Unemployment? Case of Selected Balkan Countries
Authors: Pavlović Nataša , Mirović Vera , Kalaš Branimir
Published: October 2024

Tourism represents one of the most rapidly growing sectors in the world. This study aims to identify the effect of tourism indicators on the unem­ployment rate. The subject of the study implies evaluating the effect of inter­national tourism revenues and international tourism arrivals on unemploy­ment in selected Balkan countries (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgar­ia, Croatia, Hungary, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia and Slovenia) for the period 2007-2020. The empirical findings confirmed that giv­en tourism indicators negatively influence unemployment on the panel level. It means that a higher level of international tourism revenues and a greater number of international tourism arrivals decrease unemployment rates. The obtained results indicate that these economies should pay more attention to the share of the tourism sector in their economic structure to enable lucrative effects on their economic prosperities.
COMPULSORY ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS IMPLEMENTED UNDER THE EMERGENCY EPIDEMIOLOGICAL SITUATION
Authors: Margarita Cheshmedzhieva  , Antoniya Metodieva
Published: October 2024

The Article considers the role and meaning of implemented compulsory administrative actions under the emergency epidemiological situation, includes an analysis of legal changes in articles in the law of health about implemented compulsory administrative actions in the whole country or some regions.
A Comparative Study on the Performance of Proton Ceramic Electrolysis Cells under Various Gas Conditions
Authors: Jo Junho , Jin Dong  Wan , Lim Hyung-Tae
Published: October 2024

This study investigated the performance of proton ceramic electrolysis cells (PCECs) under various gas conditions. PCECs consisting of BaZr0.1Ce0.7Y0.1Yb0.1O3-δ (BZCYYb1711) proton-conducting electrolyte, PrBa0.5Sr0.5Co1.5Fe0.5O6 – BZCYYb1711 composite air electrode and Ni – BZCYYb1711 fuel electrode were prepared. In order to find out the performance dependence on the air gas conditions, electrochemical evaluations were conducted by changing the air flow rate and its water vapor concentration. In addition, the performance tests were carried out under hydrogen (H2) and mixed gas (H2 10% – N2 balance) conditions in order to investigate the effect of the hydrogen concentration in the fuel electrode gas on the performance. The electrochemical performance was significantly improved when the steam concentration of the air electrode gas increased from 20 to 30%, while the increase in the air flow rate decreased the performance. Additionally, the mixed gas for the fuel electrode under 20% steam condition slightly improved the performance, compared to hydrogen, but not under 30% steam conditions. These results indicate that the most influential gas condition that determines the electrochemical performance is the water vapor concentration in the air electrode gas while the air flow rate and the hydrogen concentration have a slight effect on the performance.
Ruddlesden-Popper Perovskite Materials for Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Cathode: A Review
Authors: Chun Phil Joo , Lim Won Bin , Choi Yoonseok
Published: October 2024

This review paper summarizes the recent findings on Ruddlesden-Popper (RP) phase materials for solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) cathodes. These materials, known for their unique layered structure, show excellent performance in intermediate-temperature SOFCs due to their outstanding catalytic activity for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and relatively high durability. RP perovskites are notable for their fast oxygen surface exchange rates and stability under operating conditions, making them suitable for both oxide ion and proton-conducting SOFCs. The paper examines the relationship between their crystal structure, physical properties, and the transport mechanisms of oxygen ions. Key strategies to enhance the properties of RP perovskites in SOFCs are discussed, including doping to optimize conductivity and thermal expansion coefficients, and creating composite cathodes to improve stability and performance. The paper also briefly covers the long-term stability of these materials with some examples. Finally, the review highlights the need for further research on the ORR kinetics of RP perovskites, especially in proton-conducting SOFCs, to fully realize their potential for efficient and durable energy conversion technologies.
PRÁTICAS DE ENSINO PARA LEITURA E LEITURA LITERÁRIA NA FORMAÇÃO DE PROFESSORES PRIMÁRIOS EM MOÇAMBIQUE: EFEITOS E DESAFIOS DAS INSTITUIÇÕES DE FORMAÇÃO
Authors: CASTIGO José Fernandes , GUEDES-PINTO Ana Lúcia
Published: October 2024

O presente artigo tem por tema o estudo das práticas de leitura e leitura literária no curso de formação de professores primários em Moçambique. O principal objetivo é discutir a relação existente entre as práticas de leitura desenvolvidas no curso de formação de professores primários, os conteúdos do programa de disciplina de Metodologia de Ensino de Língua Portuguesa e o modo de ensino de leitura de literatura em uma escola primária. A pesquisa é do tipo etnográfico e foi conduzida por meio de estudos bibliográficos, documentais e de campo. A análise do material produzido fundamentou-se na perspectiva do ensino da leitura com uma abordagem cultural. Esta análise evidenciou que, nas duas instituições pesquisadas, estimulam-se mais as práticas de leitura como busca de conhecimento e de informação, e a grade de disciplinas do curso não tem conteúdos específicos que abordem o ensino de leitura literária. A partir disso, sugere-se que os currículos de formação de professores possam se alicerçar sobre três bases: conhecimentos científicos, formação didático-pedagógica e formação ética e política.
Anthropology in Action in Vanuatu
Authors: Whitehouse Harvey , Tanguay Jamie
Published: October 2024

In March 2023, Vanuatu was struck by two category 4 tropical cyclones, dubbed Judy and Kevin, in rapid succession. As the planet heats up and extreme weather events become fiercer and more frequent, disaster response teams will face ever greater challenges to restore vital infrastructure and help the people living on Pacific islands to repair their homes and feed themselves. Based on the information gathered for this article using well-established anthropological techniques of in-depth open-ended interviews and long-term immersive fieldwork, we argue that effective responses to natural disasters may be strengthened by engaging more fully with local and traditional institutions, utilising the best available data and coordinating the efforts of more diverse stakeholders.
A New Ratiometric Highly Selective Chromogenic Sensor for Cu2+ Detection
Authors: Roy Puspendu
Published: October 2024

An azo-phenol moiety-based chemosensor is synthesized and different spectroscopic techniques have been used to confirm its structure. A significant colour change from pale yellow to purple was noticed while the chemosensor made a complex with Cu2+ ion but it did not show any significant colour change while studied with other competitive metal ions. Job’s plot and mass spectroscopic analysis have been used to predict the 1:1 chemosensor-Cu2+ complex formation. DFT studies have been performed to explain the binding mechanism between the HL and Cu2+.Association constant (Ka, 8.94x104 M-1) confirms that the probe has very high affinity for Cu2+ complex formation. Thus, the probe is highly effective in comparison to other reported probes for selective colorimetric and ratiometric detection of Cu2+.
Synthesis and Magnetic Properties of Polynuclear Complexes of 1st Transition Metals: A Mini Review
Authors: Biswas Apurba
Published: October 2024

The design and synthesis of multinuclear complexes has attracted considerable interest for their utility in small memory devices and quantum phenomena. The studies of magnetic studies of those complexes are very important to know their behavior in presence of magnetic fields. Now a days, ongoing interest is to synthesis single molecule-based magnets (SMMs) that can be derived from transition metals with different ligands. Majority of the metals that are used for the synthesis of such singlemolecule magnets are Co(II/III), Mn(II/III), Cu(II) and Ni(II). Different synthetic routes and ligands have been used to get multinuclear 1st transition metal complexes, especially bridging ligands such as azide, thiocyanate, cyanate, hydroxyl, carboxylates etc. along with phenol-based Schiff base ligands are widely used. The exchange coupling between the unpaired electrons of two metal centers connected through bridging ligands depends on several factors, such as metal metal distance, bridging angles, geometry, etc.
Effect of Temperature on Dissociation Constant and Determination of Equivalent Conductance at Infinite Dilution (Λ°) of Two Weak Acids
Authors: Ganguly Debashree , Samanta Sugata
Published: October 2024

Dissociation constants of Lactic Acid (2-hydroxy propionic acid) have been studied at four different temperatures (19°C, 25°C, 32°C, 38°C). The change in pKa of lactic acid with temperature has been investigated and found that it increases with the temperature rise. The relationship between temperature and dissociation constant is not linear. In the second section of the experiment, the equivalent conductance of propionic and lactic acids at infinite dilution (Λ°) has been studied using Kohlrausch's Law of independent ion migration. A Python program has been designed to estimate the equivalent conductance of two weak acids. Theoretical calculations support the observed results, providing valuable insights into the behaviour and chemical properties of two weak acids.
Evaluating the structural performance of masonry wall panels constructed with glass waste aggregate blocks
Authors:   Department of Civil Engineering, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Mapa R.M.M.N.D. , Jayasinghe C. , Ariyaratne I.E.
Published: October 2024

The construction industry faces a significant challenge in the form of high costs associated with construction materials. As a means of addressing this challenge, the industry has explored various alternatives to reduce costs. One such effort includes the use of alternative or waste materials in construction. The adoption of waste materials in the construction industry offers a viable solution to natural resource depletion while providing an opportunity for proper solid waste management. The construction industry relies heavily on the use of bricks and blocks, which require significant quantities of natural resources. As a result, considerable research has focused on the introduction of waste materials into the bricks and blocks manufacturing process, such as Glass Waste, waste tea, rice husk ash, crumb rubber, and cement kiln dust, as a substitute for sand. Among these materials, glass waste plays a particularly prominent role in increasing municipal solid waste. According to current literature, the compressive strength of masonry units is dependent on the percentage of glass waste used, with peak strength observed at 20%-25% replacement. Beyond this threshold, subsidence becomes noticeable. The maximum replacement percentage that can be used without significantly reducing the compressive strength of general masonry units is 50%. However, it is essential to evaluate masonry strengths, rather than just masonry unit strengths, when designing walls within the framework of construction quality. This research aims to evaluate the compressive and flexural strength of wall panels cast from masonry units in which 50% of the fine aggregate has been replaced with glass waste. The study will compare the results obtained with that of the strength requirement specified in the BS EN 1996-1-1. The compressive strength of GWAB is observed to be higher than that of CSB, as reported in the literature. However, experimental values indicate a significant reduction in compressive strength as compared to the values calculated from BS EN 1996-1-1. In light of this, 𝐾𝐺𝑊𝐴𝐵=0.48 factor has been defined for the design of wall panels according to equation 3.1 in BS EN 1996-1-1 using general-purpose mortar and GWAB. Furthermore, the equation 3.1 in BS EN 1996-1-1 can be redefined as follows with the 𝐾𝐺𝑊𝐴𝐵 factor. 𝑓𝑘=𝐾𝐺𝑊𝐴𝐵𝐾𝑓𝑏𝛼𝑓𝑚𝛽, definitions of other parameters in the equation defined in BS EN 1996-1-1. This factor is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and durability of the wall panels. The characteristic flexural strength of GWAB wall panels perpendicular to the bed joint and parallel to the bed joint was compared with the theoretical and experimental values of CSB wall panels and graphically represented in the charts.
Cellular pile raft foundations for lightweight multi-storey buildings
Authors:   Department of Civil Engineering, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Sandamal N.G.T.M. , Jayasinghe M.T.R. , De Silva L.I.N.
Published: October 2024

The global demand for housing and urban land scarcity has driven the need for multistorey buildings. The substructure design plays a crucial role in ensuring the stability of these structures, as traditional foundation methods, like piled or piled raft foundations, are essential for distributing the substantial loads. However, the high costs associated with these systems have prompted the e ploration of alternative foundation designs This study’s approach seeks to optimize foundation construction by reducing costs without compromising structural integrity, making it a viable solution for sustainable urban development. This study investigates the feasibility of employing a raft foundation, particularly a weight-compensated cellular raft design for multistorey buildings exceeding 10 floors which typically require costly pile foundations. Unlike traditional piles, Backhoe loaders are proposed for constructing piles filled with Aggregate Base Course (ABC) with cement and inserting reinforced columns for anchoring the cellular raft. The strategy involves settling the building slightly to mobilize the soil capacity, particularly for sandy clay soil conditions. Furthermore, the study explores the potential of lightweight superstructures to significantly reduce construction costs by optimizing structural weight and eliminating the need for pile foundations. Specifically, it explores the utilization of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) based lightweight panels and precast prestressed concrete beam systems with precast prestressed concrete slabs. Investigating a 10-story reinforced concrete moment resisting frame (MRF) supported by a cellular piled raft foundation, the research employs a direct approach considering soil-structure (SSI) interaction effects. Through construction stage analysis using finite element software (Midas GEN, Midas GTS NX), the study determines optimal gap sizes for the cellular raft and assesses the maximum number of storeys feasible without pile foundations. Overall, this study suggests that on sandy clay soil, constructing taller buildings with a maximum of 14 floors, in addition to the cellular basement, is feasible using lightweight superstructures in conjunction with cellular rafts. Moreover, the research recommends increasing pile spacing beyond the current 5m x 5m grid configuration to fully mobilize soil capacity. Future studies should also investigate the effectiveness of these foundation systems across various soil types, including silty clay, loamy soil, and sandy loam, to further validate the design's applicability in different geological conditions.