bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Enhancing the Innovation Profile of Domestic Enterprises by Foreign Direct Investment
Authors:   “Beder” University College, Tirana, Albania, Dollija Elda , Teneqexhi Marinela ,   “Fan S. Noli” University, Korçë, Albania
Published: January 2025

Foreign direct investment (FDI) stands out as a crucial element impacting the economic progress of a nation. Within the Western Balkans region, FDI plays a pivotal role in fostering economic advancement, expansion, and competitiveness. Nevertheless, the effects of innovation on the overall inflow of Foreign Direct Investment remain unexplored, particularly in the Western Balkans. This paper aims to examine the influence exerted by the innovation of local enterprises and other contextual variables on the expansion of Foreign Direct Investment in the Western Balkans spanning from 2019 to 2023. The study adopts a mixed approach through which it aims to ascertain the influence of the main factor (innovation) on the growth of FDI through the analysis of panel data. The study's results revealed two significant findings: First, a positive direct relationship exists between the progression of innovation within enterprises and the overall FDI influx in the Western Balkans. Second, factors related to structure and context, such as company size, workforce size, and establishment year, do not exhibit a substantial impact on the enhancement of innovation and FDI streams for local enterprises. Consequently, the outcomes underline the necessity for further investigation to assess the implications of these trends on enterprises (size, workforce, and establishment longevity) and to empower innovation opportunities and capital attractiveness for domestic enterprises through financial diplomacy.
Jacques Derrida’s Secret Pedagogy
Authors:   DePaul University, Naas Michael
Published: January 2025

This essay takes up Jacques Derrida’s ‘secret pedagogy’, that is, his pedagogy concerning the secret, particularly in his 1991-1992 seminar on the topic, and his pedagogy as what aims to safeguard the secret. It is in this latter sense, the essay suggests, that all of Derrida’s seminars – and not just those on the expressed topic of the secret – distinguish themselves from more traditional forms of pedagogy that seek to transmit some knowledge or truth. Derrida’s pedagogy might thus be best thought, it is suggested, through a comparison with the modern institution of ‘literature’, which, according to Derrida, produces a ‘secrecy effect’ through nothing other than the text. The essay concludes that Derrida’s secret pedagogy, which is anything but some esoteric teaching passed on from master to disciple, is today available – some two decades after his death – right on the surface of Derrida’s texts, and in particular in his seminars.
The Affirmation of Deconstruction – Perhaps
Authors:   Università di Salerno, Vitale Francesco
Published: January 2025

In The Politics of Friendship, through the Nietzschean vision of a ‘new species of philosophers’ to come, the ‘philosophers of the dangerous perhaps’, Jacques Derrida sees the nascent possibility of an entirely new experience and thus an equally new thought: the experience and thought of the ‘perhaps’. Given the context, this reference to the experience and thought of the ‘perhaps’ has always been interpreted in an ethical-political key, but another text, ‘Perhaps or Maybe’, explicitly dedicated to the experience and thought of the ‘perhaps’, could allow us to grasp its more radical affirmation over and above its demonstrated effectiveness in the context of the deconstruction of the political.
Analphabetic Writing: Choreography after Derrida
Authors:   Université Paris 8 Vincennes–Saint-Denis, Universidad de Zaragoza, López-Esteve Oriol
Published: January 2025

For decades, Jacques Derrida and his works have been considered unsuitable for discussing dance, performance, or embodied matters. This article challenges this belief and re-reads Derrida’s corpus with the aim of redescribing choreography grammatologically. This theoretical elaboration takes the philosopher’s texts on dance and non-phonetic writing as a starting point and also considers the readings and criticisms that dance scholars have made regarding deconstruction and Derrida’s work. Taking into account the distinction in Of Grammatology between ‘narrow writing’ and’ ‘writing in general’, I will examine dance notation as narrow dance writing and reject the idea that it is the only way we can conceive choreography. Beyond the prejudice against choreography that arose in the 19th century and was reinforced at the turn of the 21st century, it is possible to redescribe this type of writing as spacing, closer to the conception of writing in Derrida’s texts on Antonin Artaud or the ‘arts of the visible’. Ultimately, the article will demonstrate the theoretical elaboration through a brief examination of the case of American modern dancer Loie Fuller.
A Reflexive Gaze on Art History: ‘Pregnances’
Authors:   Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique-CNRS, Segarra Marta
Published: January 2025

This article examines one of Jacques Derrida’s essays concerning aesthetics, ‘Pregnances’ (first published in 1993), which comments on the work of a woman artist, Colette Deblé, in relation to the question of the ‘feminine’ and to a feminist gaze in art history. Derrida argues that Deblé avoids oppositional or ‘reactive’ logic regarding Western pictorial tradition in favour of what can be called a reflexive gaze of this undoubtedly phallogocentric tradition. Deblé’s work also represents a reassessment of the traditional opposition between (masculine) activity and (feminine) passivity, as well as male/masculine penetration and female/feminine impregnation, but also of chronological temporality, hierarchy between the original and the copy, and precedence of the original over the quotation.
Forgiveness Is Not a Musical Instrument
Authors:   University of Oxford, Waltham-Smith Naomi
Published: January 2025

Derrida’s Le Parjure et le Pardon is heard as an offstage voice to the global mediatization of proceedings concerning genocide in the International Court of Justice in late 2023 and early 2024. Focusing on the Sixth Session of the first year, which remained unpublished until 2019 (2022 in English), the article follows Derrida in questioning whether a shared hearing or attunement is required for forgiveness and reconciliation. Far from absolving states from responsibility, Derrida’s insistence that any forgiveness and reconciliation worthy of the name exceed identificatory concord or reciprocity puts pressure on those with the most power to decide for peace before any accord to come.
Cuts and Tricks: Replaying Derrida’s Take on Lacan’s ‘Seminar on “The Purloined Letter”’
Authors:   West University of Timisoara, Milesi Laurent
Published: January 2025

Derrida’s ‘Le facteur de la vérité’ in The Post Card is memorable for being the philosopher’s most systematic dissection and critique of Lacan’s appropriation and allegorization of literature – in this case Edgar Poe’s ‘The Purloined Letter’ in his inaugural ‘Seminar’ (1956) – to reveal the ‘Truth’ and meaning of psychoanalysis in his ‘return to Freud’. However, the essay’s serious agenda does not preclude a more playful undercurrent, not unusual in Derrida’s writing, in line and in tune with Poe’s ‘analytic tale’ as well as Lacan’s epoch-making interpretation, in which themes and motifs related to card games (and the bid for power implicitly associated with winning) strategically shape the critique and Derrida’s own re-reading of ‘The Purloined Letter’. This essay will explore how Derrida’s numerological moves counter Lacan’s own, opposing even to odd numbers in a restaging of the children’s game in Poe’s tale. ‘Le facteur de la vérité’ will be seen to use game strategies from bridge, while poker, dear to Derrida’s mother, will also be evoked via Hélène Cixous’s reading of ‘Circumfession’ in her Portrait of Jacques Derrida as a Young Jewish Saint. Finally, this reinterpretation of the face-off between Derrida and Lacan will be framed within the larger problematic of the ‘culpable’ Jew (le juif coupable) in Derrida in relation to circumcision as well as to ‘cutting’ or ‘trumping’ (la coupe) in a card game.
A Review of Isabelle Alfandary, Anne Emmanuelle Berger and Jacob Rogozinsky, eds. Qui a peur de la déconstruction?
Authors:   Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Brassard Léonore
Published: January 2025

This review discusses Isabelle Alfandary, Anne Emmanuelle Berger and Jacob Rogozinsky, eds. Qui a peur de la déconstruction? Paris: PUF, 2023, ISBN 978-2130855309 (pb), 334 pages, 22€ (print ed.), 17,99€ (digital ed.)
CONTRIBUTION TO THE GEOCHEMICAL STUDY OF KANZI AND MVUANGU PHOSPHATE ROCKS IN THE LEMBA OIL SUB-BASIN OF CENTRAL CONGO
Authors:   University of Kinshasa, Faculty of Oil, Gas and Renewable Energy, Department of Exploration and Production Engineering, Democratic Republic of Congo; e-mail: bruno.deko@unikin.ac.cd, brunosdeko@gmail.com, Oyema Bruno Deko , Kazinguvu Atibu Emmanuel ,   University of Kinshasa, Department of Chemistry and Industry, Democratic Republic of Congo, Mandjumba Yenor Dan ,   University of Kinshasa, Faculty of Oil, Gas and Renewable Energy, Department of Exploration and Production Engineering, Democratic Republic of Congo, Wetshondo Osomba Dominique ,   University of Kinshasa, Faculty of Science, Department of Geosciences, Democratic Republic of Congo, Wonga Mathias Loma ,   Agence Congolaise de L'environnement (ACE), Democratic Republic of Congo, Pote Wembonyama John ,   University of Geneva, Faculty of Sciences, Department F.-A. Forel for Environmental and Aquatic Sciences and Institute for Environmental Sciences, 1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland
Published: January 2025

Located on the Congolese (DRC) side of the Lemba depression, our study area is the part that was returned by "ex-Zaïrep", just east of the concession currently operated by Perenco rep. Open to oil and mining exploration, we brought back phosphate rock samples from the field, which were analyzed by the Commissariat Général à l'Energie Atomique (CGEA) using the ED- XRF Xepos III spectrometer. These analyses were used to characterize the geochemistry of the Kanzi and Mvuangu phosphates.
The results of the Chemical Analyses (Oxides) and Chemical Elements are as follows: (1) Major oxides (%:) Al2O3 (21,21 – 17,24); SiO2 (14,85 – 30,40); P2O5 (19,48 -13,34 %) finally Fe2O3 (8,544 – 10,74 %), and other oxides with concentrations in mg/kg (MnO, ZnO, Rb2O, SrO, ZrO2, Nb2O5, Sb2O5, Ta2O5); (2) Major Chemical Elements (%): Aluminum (11.22- 9.124); Silicon (6.939-14.21); Phosphate (8.5-5.823 %) and several trace metallic elements that will be exposed in another soil and sediment matrix to assess the state of the environment prior to mining and petroleum activities. The origin of these metallic elements, including heavy metals, rare earths and radionuclides, is phosphate. Phosphate rocks, such as apatite, may contain heavy metals, rare earths and radionuclides in their mineral structure.
The gravity anomaly map of the Lemba sub-basin, where the phosphate sites are located, clearly shows that the phosphates of Kanzi in the south and Mvuangu in the north are not located in the central deposits, but in the upper parts of the sub-basin. These areas are potentially anticlines, which are geological structures capable of containing hydrocarbons. This study is a contribution to our knowledge of the phosphate resource in Kanzi and Mvuangu, and contribute to understanding the geological structures capable of containing hydrocarbons. It is also an important contribution in the field of geochemistry and gravimetry.
RESEARCH ON THE SIMULATION OF THE OPERATION OF ROBOTIC MECHANISMS
Authors:   Petroleum-Gas University of Ploiesti, Romania, e-mail: georgeta.toma@upg-ploiesti.ro, Toma Georgeta
Published: January 2025

The optimal design of the structures from the component of the robotic mechanisms requires a good knowledge of the various parameters during their operation. Among them are mentioned the working parameters that give the position, speed and acceleration at the operational level of the robots, as well as at the level of the active joints from the component of the robotic mechanisms. This paper presents how a functional simulator of robotic active mechanisms called RobSim was created. The simulator allows the positional and kinematic analysis of active robotic mechanisms, regardless of their configuration and the number of component modules. The positional analysis is performed parametrically. A polynomial variation of the fifth degree was considered for the position parameters at the level of active joints. The simulator allows establishing the position and orientation at the operational level of the analyzed robotic mechanism, as well as the trajectory followed by the robot during operation. Also, the simulator allows establishing the speeds and accelerations both at the operational level of the robotic mechanisms, as well as at the level of the active joints in their component.
NEW NUMBER NUSSELT CORRELATION FOR THE ANNULAR SPACE OF THE TUBE IN TUBE HEAT EXCHANGER
Authors:   Petroleum-Gas University of Ploiesti, Romania, email: mpopa@upg-ploiesti.ro, Popa Maria
Published: January 2025

The use of Nusselt number correlation in the annular space of a tube-in-tube heat exchanger is a difficult task for researchers, since this correlation is deduced specifically for certain geometrical features. As such, researchers would usually only present limited areas of applicability. This paper presents the algorithm for establishing a new Nusselt number correlation for the annular space of a tube-in-tube heat exchanger with warm water flowing inside in counterflow with cold water in the annular space. The objective of the research was to establish the Nusselt number that allows the calculation of the partial convective heat transfer coefficient on the cold fluid side for a laminar flow regime. This correlation must be of the form: Nu = C·Rem·Prn. This was possible by processing the experimental data by applying the least squares method, as an optimization method. Five sets of experimental data were used for this study. A steel tube in tube heat exchanger was used for this work.
ANALYSIS OF POROSITE-NEUTRON (NPHI) LOGGING DATA FROM THE KINKASI FIELD: THE CASE OF THE GUP, F AND E HORIZONS OF THE CENOMANIAN RESERVOIR (D.R. CONGO COASTAL BASIN)
Authors:   Department of Exploration and Production, Faculty of Oil, Gas and Renewable Energies, University of Kinshasa, DR Congo, e-mail: djonive.munene@unikin.ac.cd; munenedjonive@gmail.com, Munene Asidi Djonive , Kanika Mayena Thomas ,   Department of Geosciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Kinshasa, DR Congo, Manteko Matondo Emmanuel ,   Center for Geological and Mining Research, DR Congo, Nsitu Nsitu Djeskin ,   Department of Petroleum Management and Economics, Faculty of Oil, Gas and Renewable Energies, University of Kinshasa, DR Congo, Biduaya Ngalamulume Jeff ,   Department of Exploration and Production, Faculty of Oil, Gas and Renewable Energies, University of Kinshasa, DR Congo, Bangama Kabongo Augustin ,   Department of Petroleum Management and Economics, Faculty of Oil, Gas and Renewable Energies, University of Kinshasa, DR Congo
Published: January 2025

Since the discovery of hydrocarbon deposits in the DR Congo Coastal Basin in general, and in the Kinkasi field in particular, several development wells have been drilled with a view to optimising the economic value of the reserves evaluated. Despite the large number of wells drilled in this onshore area of the Coastal Basin and a multitude of development studies, it should be noted that production is stagnating at around 10,000 barrels per day. This report is a considerable contribution to addressing these major concerns. Certainly, with the advancement of technology through the creation of supercomputers and software, these reprocessings can prove important in that they can bring to light certain information that previously went unnoticed. As well as highlighting the importance of modelling the petrophysical parameters of a reservoir in the development of an oil field, this subject provides assistance to the Production Engineer, insofar as it makes it possible to visualise, from the desktop with some software such as Microsoft Excel 2010 for the calculation of certain data with a view to representing them in the form of tables and graphs, the Geographic Information System (ArcGis 10.3) for representing the study area and drawing up maps of the spatial distribution of porosity-neutron horizons, areas of interest that could be the subject of in-depth studies ((location of new wells).
RHEOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF INDOLIC ALKALOIDS OBTAINED FROM NATURAL PRODUCTS
Authors:   Department of Biochemistry, Ovidius University of Constanta, Romania, e-mail (corresponding author): anamneculai89@gmail.com, Neculai Ana-Maria , Niculescu Ilie Anamaria ,   Chemical and Chemical Engineering, Ovidius University of Constanta, Romania, Cristea Iuliana ,   Well Drilling, Extraction and Transport of Hydrocarbons Department, Petroleum-Gas University of Ploiesti, Romania
Published: January 2025

Indole chemistry is a fascinating and complex field. The foul-smelling indole molecule is the building block for various natural and chemical products. Moreover, some indole derivatives are vital pharmaceutical products or essential intermediates. Indole ring compounds are part of the class of aromatic heterocyclic compounds with one heteroatom, and the indole ring is the most widespread heterocycle. This paper presenting a rheological indole alkaloids from natural products. In this article, we analysed twelve formulations of the H/L (water-oil) or L/H (oil-water) emulsion type, carrying out a comparative study with alcoholic extracts of different concentrations of Vinca alkaloids obtained from the leaf and stem of the Vinca minor L. plant. This plant is collected to the Dobrogea area.
Using Formvar to Capture Ice Crystals and Retrieve Roughness Parameters
Authors: Celebi Omer , Smedley Andrew R. D. , Connolly Paul J. , Webb Ann R.
Published: January 2025

Abstract. Ice crystal roughness is a poorly observed and understood parameter, yet it significantly influences crystal’s scattering properties and consequently impacts radiative transfer in the atmosphere, contributing to uncertainties in weather and climate forecasting. In this study, we introduce a novel approach to obtain high-resolution roughness measurements, building on the traditional formvar method for capturing ice crystals. Ice crystals were grown in the Manchester Ice Cloud Chamber, collected, and subsequently imaged using various techniques, including a scanning optical profilometer, which enabled the identification of roughness features as small as 0.8 µm. This approach provides critical insights into roughness characteristics that are significant for improving radiative transfer models and forecasts.
Satellite-based detection of deep convective clouds: the sensitivity of infrared methods, and implications for cloud climatology
Authors: Kotarba Andrzej Zbigniew , Wojciechowska Izabela
Published: January 2025

Abstract. Reliable deep convective cloud (DCC) climatology relies heavily on accurate detection. Infrared-based algorithms play a critical role, as they are the only ones that can be applied to the 6.7 μm water vapour (WV) absorption band, and the 11 μm infrared (IR) window band. For over 40 years, the latter have been the only daytime/nighttime channels used in satellite cloud imaging. The study presents the first global validation of three, commonly-used DCC detection methods, which use brightness temperature (Tb) in WV and IR bands. These methods are: the infrared window method (IRW; Tb11), the brightness temperature difference method (BTD; Tb6.7−Tb11), and the temperature difference method with the tropopause method (TROPO; Tb11−Ttropo). All methods were applied to one year (2007) of Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) observations, and validated against collocated CloudSat-CALIPSO lidar-radar cloud classifications. Results indicate that even with optimal parameter configurations, DCC detection accuracy remains moderate, and below 75 % (Cohen’s κ < 0.4) for all methods. Global accuracy ranged from 56.6 % (for TROPO) to 72.8 % (for BTD) using an optimal threshold of −2 K. Regionally, the BTD method performs best, with accuracy of 72.9 % over Europe, and 67.9 % over Africa. Misclassifications are common with clouds such as Nimbostratus and Altostratus (single-layer cloud regimes) and Cirrus and Altostratus (multi- layer cloud regimes). Overall, the BTD method slightly outperforms the others, while TROPO is least effective. Our study highlighted the high sensitivity of these methods to threshold selection. Even a ±1 K change in the threshold resulted in a 10– 40 % variance in DCC frequency. The latter finding is of particular importance for the construction of homogenous DCC datasets, whether as global mosaics, or as time series spanning multiple generations of satellite instruments.
Using Optimization Tools to Explore Stratospheric Aerosol Injection Strategies
Authors: Brody Ezra , Zhang Yan , MacMartin Douglas G. , Visioni Daniele , Kravitz Ben , Bednarz Ewa M.
Published: January 2025

Abstract. Stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI), as a possible supplement to emission reduction, has the potential to reduce some of the impacts associated with climate change. However, the outcomes will depend on how it is deployed: not just how much, but the latitudes of injection and the distribution of injection rates across those latitudes. Different such strategies have been proposed, managing up to three climate metrics simultaneously by injecting at multiple latitudes. Nonetheless, these strategies still do not fully compensate for the pattern of climate changes caused by increased greenhouse gas concentrations, creating a novel climate state. To date there has not been a systematic assessment of whether there are strategies that could do a better job of managing some specific climate goals, nor an assessment of any underlying trade-offs between managing different sets of climate goals. Herein we use existing climate model simulations of the response to injection at 7 different latitudes, and apply optimization tools to explore the limitations and trade-offs when designing strategies that combine injection across these latitudes. This relies on linearity being a sufficiently good assumption, which we first validate. The resulting "best"' strategy of course depends on what goals are being optimized for. For example, at 1 degree Celsius of cooling, we predict that there exist strategies that do a better job than those simulated to date at simultaneously balancing regional temperature and precipitation responses, but the differences may be too small to detect at lower levels of cooling.
Assessing the effect of forest management on above-ground carbon stock by remote sensing
Authors: Van Winckel Sofie , Simons Jonas , Lhermitte Stef , Muys Bart
Published: January 2025

Abstract. As the global community intensifies efforts to combat climate change, insights on the influence of management on forest carbon stocks and fluxes are becoming invaluable for establishing sustainable forest management practices. However, accurately and efficiently monitoring carbon stocks remains technologically challenging. In this study, we aim to 1) leverage the complementary strengths of optical, Light Detection And Ranging (LiDAR) and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) remote sensing technologies to improve overall accuracy and scalability in carbon stock estimation, and to 2) assess the effect of forest management on carbon stock by comparing unconfounded pairs of managed and unmanaged forests in the National Park Brabantse Wouden (Flanders, Belgium). Remote sensing data from Sentinel-2, Sentinel-1, and a canopy height product derived from the Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation mission (GEDI) were used as predictors in a generalized additive model (GAM) to estimate carbon stock. The combination of all three remote sensing sources significantly improved model accuracy (R²=0.68, RMSE=56.35, MAE=50.07) compared to a model using only Sentinel-2 indices (R²=0.56, RMSE=99.44, MAE=91.40). While field assessment exhibited higher carbon stocks in unmanaged stands compared to managed ones, this difference was not detectable using a remote sensing model that incorporated Sentinel-2, Sentinel-1, and GEDI variables. Potential explanations for this discrepancy include signal saturation and the need for more training data.
DebDab: A database of supraglacial debris thickness and physical properties
Authors: Fontrodona-Bach Adrià , Groeneveld Lars , Miles Evan , McCarthy Michael , Shaw Thomas , Melo Velasco Vicente , Pellicciotti Francesca
Published: January 2025

Abstract. Rocky debris covers around 7.3 % of the global glacier area, influencing ice melt rates and the surface mass balance of glaciers, making the dynamics and hydrology of debris-covered glaciers distinct from those of clean-ice glaciers. Accurate representation of debris in models is challenging, as measurements of the physical properties of supraglacial debris are scarce. Here, we compile a database of measured and reported physical properties and thickness of supraglacial debris that we call DebDab and that is open to community submissions. The majority of the database (90 %) is compiled from 172 sources in the literature, and the remaining 10 % has not been published before. DebDab contains 8,737 data entries for supraglacial debris thickness, of which 1,941 entries also include sub-debris ablation rates, 177 data entries of thermal conductivity of debris, 160 of aerodynamic surface roughness length, 79 of debris albedo, 59 of debris emissivity and 37 of debris porosity. The data are distributed over 83 glaciers in 13 regions in the Global Terrestrial Network for Glaciers. We show regional differences in the distribution of debris thickness measurements in DebDab, and fit Østrem curves for the 19 glaciers with sufficient debris thickness and ablation data. DebDab can be used for energy balance, melt, and surface mass balance studies by incorporating site-specific debris properties, or to evaluate remote sensing estimates of debris thickness and surface roughness. It can also help future field campaigns on debris-covered glaciers by identifying observation gaps. DebDab’s uneven spatial coverage points to sampling biases in community efforts to observe debris-covered glaciers, with some regions (e.g. Central Europe and South Asia) well-sampled, but gaps in other regions with prevalent debris (e.g. Andes and Alaska). Debris thickness measurements are mostly concentrated at lower elevations, leaving higher-elevation debris-covered areas under-sampled, suggesting that our knowledge of debris properties might not be representative of the entire manifestations of debris across elevations. DebDab is an openly available dataset that aims at evolving and being updated with community submissions as new data of supra-glacial properties become available. Data described in this manuscript can be accessed at Zenodo under https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14224835 (Groeneveld et al., 2024).
ESA CCI Soil Moisture GAPFILLED: An independent global gap-free satellite climate data record with uncertainty estimates
Authors: Preimesberger Wolfgang , Stradiotti Pietro , Dorigo Wouter
Published: January 2025

Abstract. The ESA CCI Soil Moisture multi-satellite climate data record is a widely used dataset for large-scale hydrological and climatological applications and studies. However, data gaps in the record can affect derived statistics such as long-term trends, and – if not taken into account – can potentially lead to inaccurate conclusions. Here, we present a novel gap-free dataset, covering the period from January 1991 to December 2023. Our dataset distinguishes itself from other gap-filled products, as it is purely based on the available soil moisture measurements (independent of ancillary variables to make predictions), and further due to the inclusion of uncertainty estimates for all interpolated data points. Our gap-filling framework is based on a well-established univariate Discrete Cosine Transform with Penalized Least Squares (DCT-PLS) algorithm. This ensures that the dataset remains fully independent of other soil moisture and biogeophysical datasets, and eliminates the risk of introducing non-soil moisture features from other variables. We apply DCT-PLS on a spatial moving window basis to predict missing data points based on temporal and regional neighbourhood information. The challenge of providing gap-free estimates during extended periods of frozen soils is addressed by applying a linear interpolation for these periods, which approximates the retention of frozen water in the soil. To quantify the inherent uncertainties in our predictions, we developed an uncertainty estimation model that considers the input observations quality and the performance of the gap-filling algorithm under different surface conditions. We evaluate our algorithm through performance metrics with independent in situ reference measurements and by its ability to restore GLDAS Noah reanalysis data in artificially introduced satellite-like gaps. We find that the gap-filled data performs comparable to the original observations in terms of correlation and ubRMSD with in situ data (global median R = 0.72, ubRMSD = 0.05 m3m-3. However, in some complex environments with sparse observation coverage, performance is lower. The new ESA CCI SM v09.1 GAPFILLED dataset is publicly available at https://doi.org/10.48436/s5j4q-rpd32 (Preimesberger et al., 2024) and will see yearly updates due to its inclusion in the operational ESA CCI SM production.
Modelo de regresión funcional para la predicción de PM2.5 en función de PM10 en Lima - Perú
Authors: Choquetico Apaza Harold Abrham , Silva Rubio Edith
Published: January 2025

This pioneering study leverages functional data analysis within environmental metrology to examine the intricate relationships between critical environmental variables such as PM2.5 particle concentrations in the Metropolitan Area of Lima-Callao. Addressing the link between air quality and these particles from a functional standpoint has yielded valuable insights that surpass conventional analysis. By examining temporal variations and trends, this research has discerned not only the magnitude of pollution but also its seasonal and daily patterns. The functional data model stands out for its ability to fully utilize historical data, integrating information over time to provide a more comprehensive perspective. This advanced approach has also paved the way for incorporating multiple environmental datasets, such as temperature, humidity, and other pollutants, to offer a broader, more multifaceted view of air quality. The goal of this research is to develop an advanced predictive model that estimates PM2.5 levels based on the concentrations of PM10, utilizing daily air quality records from 2023. Through an integrated framework, the study aims to capture the complex interactions and temporal dynamics of these atmospheric components, highlighting the significant impact of PM2.5 on public health and environmental quality.
Sustainability of buffalo farming in different environments in the world
Authors: Borghese Antonio , Barile Vittoria Lucia , Chiariotti Antonella
Published: January 2025

The domestic buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) plays a strategic role in the world for the economy and society. 203.9 million heads on the planet represent this species and produce 137 million tons of milk and 4.3 million tons of meat (+18.7% and +8.2% increase from 2015 to 2021, respectively). Buffalo products are essential for the human requirements of proteins of high nutritional value. These requirements will increase rapidly in the future with the growth of the human population. Therefore, the buffalo has and will have more of a strategic role in Governments’ economic programs in many countries. The buffalo is a long-living ruminant with a high capacity to convert fiber into energy and adapt in complex areas such as marshlands, Iraq, or Bangladesh, or in hot and humid climates where other ruminants cannot survive. Buffalo is a social and family animal in small villages in Southeast Asia, where it is used mainly in the rice fields as a draught animal producing milk essential for the children’s nutrition, meat, leather, manure, horns, and bones. Thanks to its great adaptability, buffalo can be bred both in intensive and extensive systems, as in South American countries where natural pastures are highly available. In this paper, the contributions of local breeds and cosmopolitan dairy breeds to sustain protein production, maintain the land’s biodiversity, and sustain the livelihood of populations are reported according to the different farming systems.
Advances in Sodium-Ion Battery Technology: Enhancing Energy Density for Future Applications
Authors: Xiong Junting
Published: January 2025

Achieving high energy density in sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) is crucial for advancing their potential as a substitute for lithium-ion batteries, particularly in large-scale energy storage systems. However, the development of SIBs faces several challenges, including limitations in cathode and anode materials, issues with dendrite formation, low ionic conductivity, and significant electrolyte volume expansion. These barriers directly impact the energy density and overall performance of SIBs. Current research has concentrated on producing cutting-edge anode materials like hard carbon and optimizing cathode materials like layered oxides and polyanionic compounds in order to get over these restrictions. Additionally, advancements in electrolyte formulations are crucial to ensure greater stability and ionic mobility. Emerging technologies, including the use of nanostructured materials and novel cell architectures, have also been explored as potential solutions to enhance energy density. This paper synthesizes these advancements and evaluates the pathways to improving cycle stability, minimizing volumetric changes, and enhancing safety features. With continued research, SIBs could become a key component in future sustainable energy storage solutions, offering cost-effective and high-performance alternatives to existing technologies.
A Preliminary Study on the Influence of Buddhism on Traditional Chinese Legal Thought
Authors: Chen Jizhuo
Published: January 2025

Since its eastward spread, Buddhism has interacted with and integrated into traditional Chinese culture, gradually becoming localized and sinicized, flourishing during the Sui and Tang dynasties. The Buddhist doctrines and precepts, such as the concepts of equality of all beings, compassion, the notion of hell, and karma, have increasingly influenced traditional Chinese legal thought. These ideas have altered or reinforced the legislative, law enforcement, judicial, and law-abiding perspectives of emperors, officials, and even the common people. The introduction of Buddhism brought new legal concepts, enriched the cultural connotation of Chinese law, and contributed to the formation of China's unique legal philosophy.
The Impact of Ownership Concentration, Internal Risk Governance, Capital Regulation Pressure and Income Diversification on Performance and Stability of City Commercial Banks
Authors: Mu Qianyu
Published: January 2025

City Commercial Banks (CCBs) are vital players in China's financial system, but they face persistent challenges, including declining profitability, rising credit risk, and fragile governance structures. Ownership concentration plays a dual role in shaping bank performance and stability, offering both enhanced control and heightened risks such as expropriation of minority shareholders and governance inefficiencies. This study investigates the impact of ownership concentration, internal risk governance, capital regulation pressure, and income diversification on the performance of CCBs, using panel data from 35 CCBs between 2011 and 2022. Results reveal that concentrated ownership often correlates with excessive risk-taking, negatively affecting performance, whereas robust governance mechanisms and income diversification enhance stability. These findings provide actionable insights for policymakers and bank executives aiming to enhance the resilience and efficiency of CCBs in a complex regulatory and market environment.
Availability of Education in Vietnam: Sociological Analysis
Authors: Ngo Thi Cham , Kondratenko Natalia A. , Shashkova Svetlana N.
Published: January 2025

This article analyzes the situation of inequality of educational opportunity in Vietnam and its reasons, and also provides comments and assessments of the impact of some support programs and policies of the Vietnamese government to reduce inequality in educational opportunity in this country. The views and approaches to studying the accessibility of education are revealed, its main characteristics are considered, the main barriers that students face in the educational process are identified; the article provides information on the availability of education in Vietnam. The authors come to the conclusion that despite the fairly successful steps taken by the Vietnamese government, the problem of inequality in education is still far from being completely resolved. The article is based on data from international organizations and the results of sociological surveys, including those conducted with the participation and guidance of the authors.
Tourism Industry in Vietnam: Importance for the Economy and Development Challenges
Authors: Kobelev Evgeny V.
Published: January 2025

The article discusses the prospects for the development of the tourism industry in Vietnam, as well as cooperation in this area with Russia. Environmental conditions determine the tourist attractiveness of the country and great opportunities for beach recreation. Tourism is an important part of the modern Vietnamese economy. The author examines successes and difficulties of developing this industry in Vietnam.
Billy – Buddy Against Cyber Bullying
Authors:   School of Computer Science and Engineering, Presidency University, Bengaluru, India, I.S Suheal
Published: January 2025

This research paper examines the design and de- ployment of a victim support chatbot leveraging machine learning (ML) technologies. The study emphasizes the application of natu- ral language processing (NLP) techniques and predictive analytics to enhance user interactions, optimize response efficiency, and minimize operational costs. The chatbot is developed to address victim inquiries, provide tailored solutions, and escalate complex issues to human agents when required. Core features include intent recognition, ethical behavior modeling, and contextual understanding to ensure personalized and accurate responses.

The paper delves into the system architecture, covering data preprocessing, model training, and seamless integration with existing support frameworks. Performance metrics such as response time, resolution rates, and user satisfaction are analyzed to evaluate the chatbot’s effectiveness. Through real- world case studies and empirical testing, the research highlights the transformative potential of ML-driven chatbots in victim support services, providing scalable and cost-efficient solutions without compromising service quality. Future recommendations underscore the importance of continuous learning, ethical con- siderations, and enhanced functionality to adapt to evolving user needs.

Index Terms—Cyberbullying, AI-integrated chatbot, mental health support, incident reporting, online safety, user empow- erment, digital well-being.
Proton Transfer Salt and Metal Complexes of 4,4'-Ethylenedipyridine and 2,3-Pyrazinedicarboxylic Acid: Synthesis, Structural Characterization and Biological Activity
Authors: Büyükkıdan Nurgün , Kaya Seher , İlkimen Halil , Gülbandılar Aysel
Published: January 2025

In this study, a new salt {(H2BPE)(PDA), 1} synthesized from 4,4’-ethylenedipyridine (BPE) with 2,3 pyrazinedicarboxylic acid (H2PDA) and its complexes Fe(III) {(H2BPE)[Fe2(PDA)(H2O)4]n, 2} and Ni(II) {[Ni(PDA)(BPE)2(H2O)2]n.H2O, 3}, were synthesized and defined by using 1H and 13C NMR, TG-DTA, IR, UV Vis, elemental analysis, magnetic susceptibility techniques. In addition, antibacterial and antifungal activities of starting materials and synthesized compounds against Candida albicans yeast and Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli and Listeria monocytogenes bacteria were investigated using the microdilution method and compared with existing antibiotics (Cefepime, Vancomycin, Levofloxacin and Fluconazole). Compounds 1-3 were observed to have activity against yeast and bacteria. In particular, compound 3 (7.80 µg/mL) against E. faecalis, compounds 3 (7.80 µg/mL) against B. subtilis bacteria, and compound 1 (15.60 µg/mL) against C. albicans yeast. showed better activity than control compounds.
Woonwagenpolitiek in de gedepolitiseerde stad
Authors: Teodorescu Dominic
Published: January 2025

Caravan politics in the depoliticised city: applying and opposing exceptional measures for Dutch Traveller, Sinti, and Roma caravan sites

This article analyses the depoliticisation of Dutch caravan politics, which has resulted in massive pitch shortages threatening the existence of the specific caravan housing culture of Dutch Travellers, Sinti and Roma groups. The rationality underlying the repressive governance of caravans is understood as a depoliticised affirmation of technocratic solutions to an unwanted and racialised housing culture. However, as in many other European countries, Dutch authorities have been summoned to work on Roma and Traveller inclusion programmes and address pitch shortages. The increased pressure on the Dutch government culminated in 2018 when it adopted a new framework that prohibits any further measures to repress caravan culture. In what follows, a situated account of depoliticised caravan politics – and resistance to it (i.e. re-politicisation efforts) – is presented by examining the case of Teersdijk, a large campsite in the city of Nijmegen.
Wat verklaart de rancune in de regio richting de Randstad?
Authors: Otjes Simon
Published: January 2025

Boekensignalement

In this feature authors review recently published books on subjects of interest to readers of Beleid en Maatschappij.
A Systemic Review of Smart Technology Sport Bras for Examining Cardiovascular Function
Authors: Sarkis Natasha , Eybergen Madelyn MF , Phelan Brook-Lyn , Andrews David M. , Perrotta Andrew S.
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Unremitting advancements in wearable technology provides female consumers a plethora of fabricated garments that claim to monitoring biological function. Aim: This systematic review examined current literature pertaining to smart technology sport bras fabricated to assess cardiovascular function. Material and Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) was utilized, and the review was registered in the International prospective register of systemic reviews (PROSPERO) within the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). A total of 949 articles were screened after using key search terms using the Covidence systematic review software. Articles were sourced from PubMed, SPORTDiscus, or Medline via OVID databases. Results: A total of 19 articles were examined for eligibility and was reduced to a total of three articles to be included in the review. The results from this systematic review highlight the paucity of commercially available sport bras capable of accurately examining cardiovascular function during rest and exercise, while concomitantly providing the necessary support and comfort requirements for females. Of the commercially available sport bras, the Berlei sport bras was identified as the most accurate for recording cardiovascular stress during resting, walking, and running conditions. The three studies included in this review demonstrate strong potential for washable and flexible e-textile sensors with sufficient accuracy in pressure ranges that can be used in sport bras to monitor biological functioning. Conclusions: Future research should prioritize enhancing participant diversity in the examination of smart sport bras to ensure comprehensive inclusion of all body types.
Pengaruh Pengalaman Kerja Terhadap Kinerja Karyawan Pada Pt Kartika Alas Utama Di Jakarta
Authors: Handayani Ni Putu Lidia , Sugita Ingfrid , Zaenal Muhammad , Maulana Febbi Rakhmadi , Setiawan Wawan
Published: January 2025

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh pengalaman kerja terhadap kinerja karyawan pada PT Kartika Alas Utama di Jakarta. Metode yang digunakan adalah explanatory research dengan sampel sebanyak 62 responden. Teknik analisis menggunakan analisis statistik dengan pengujian regresi, korelasi, determinasi dan uji hipotesis. Hasil penelitian ini variabel pengalaman kerja diperoleh rata-rata skor sebesar 3,74 dengan kriteria baik. Variabel kinerja karyawan diperoleh rata-rata skor sebesar 3,79 dengan kriteria baik. Pengalaman kerja berpengaruh signifikan terhadap kinerja karyawan dengan persamaan regresi Y = 11,917 + 0,694X, dan nilai korelasi 0,791 atau memiliki tingkat hubungan yang kuat dengan kontribusi pengaruh sebesar 62,5% serta uji hipotesis diperoleh t hitung > t tabel atau (10,009 > 2,000) dan juga diperkuat dengan sig. 0,000 < 0,05.
Kebutuhan SDM, Peluang Dan Tantangan Tenaga Kerja Dalam Meningkatkan Pertumbuhan Ekonomi Dengan Memanfaatkan Sumber Daya Secara Legal, Bertanggung Jawab Dan Bijaksana
Authors: Asriati Asriati , Fridyatama Ollyvia , Fitria Fitria , Ernawati Fifth
Published: January 2025

Artikel ini bertujuan untuk mengeksplorasi kebutuhan sumber daya manusia (SDM), peluang, dan tantangan yang dihadapi tenaga kerja dalam meningkatkan pertumbuhan ekonomi melalui pemanfaatan sumber daya secara legal, bertanggung jawab, dan bijaksana. Penelitian ini mengidentifikasi permasalahan utama, termasuk kurangnya keterampilan, ketidakmerataan distribusi pekerjaan, dan dampak globalisasi pada pasar tenaga kerja. Menggunakan pendekatan metode campuran, data dikumpulkan melalui survei dan wawancara dengan pemangku kepentingan industri dan pembuat kebijakan. Temuan menunjukkan bahwa pengembangan SDM sangat penting untuk mendorong inovasi dan meningkatkan produktivitas. Solusi yang diusulkan mencakup program pendidikan dan pelatihan yang terarah, kolaborasi yang lebih kuat antar sektor, dan kebijakan yang mempromosikan akses yang setara terhadap peluang. Studi ini menyimpulkan bahwa pendekatan strategis terhadap pengembangan SDM sangat penting untuk pertumbuhan ekonomi yang berkelanjutan dan bahwa memanfaatkan sumber daya secara bertanggung jawab dapat menghasilkan ekonomi yang lebih inklusif.
Pensar las prácticas de investigación con aves marinas: éticas y afectos para la cohabitación multiespecie
Authors: Copello Sofía , Klier Gabriela
Published: January 2025

Las prácticas de investigación con aves marinas son variadas e involucran metodologías que van desde la mera observación directa de los animales hasta la colocación de dispositivos en los individuos, el cautiverio, entre otras. La propia comunidad científico/académica reconoce el efecto negativo de algunas de estas prácticas en diferentes aspectos de la biología de los individuos y las poblaciones. Dichas metodologías han ido cambiando a través del tiempo tanto con el devenir del desarrollo tecnológico como así también con nuevas reflexiones en torno a la conciencia, el sufrimiento y el dolor de los animales como base de la ética. En este trabajo nos interesa reflexionar sobre las prácticas de investigación con aves marinas desde un abordaje filosófico, integrando aspectos epistemológicos, éticos y afectivos y considerando a su vez una perspectiva histórica. Creemos que habilitar preguntas y reflexiones en este tema, que exigen pausas y diálogos, nos permitirán abrir posibilidades a otras formas de abordar las prácticas de investigación, de relacionarnos y acercarnos a las aves e incluso habilitar otras maneras de co-habitar en el mundo.