bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Artificial intelligence or augmented intelligence? Experiences of lecturers and students in an ODeL university
Authors: Mohale Ntshimane Elphas , Suliman Zuleika , Maphoto Kgabo , Sevnarayan Kershnee , Mokoena Douglas , Nstopi Tumelo Jaquiline
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented intelligence (AuI) in an open distance e-learning university, focusing on lecturers’ and students’ experiences. Using qualitative methods: focus group discussions and e-mail interviews, it examines the adoption and exploration of these technologies, particularly in academic writing skills development. The research applies diffusion of innovations theory and technology acceptance model to understand the dissemination and acceptance of AI and AuI, emphasising perceived ease of use and usefulness. It contrasts perspectives between lecturers and students, revealing varied views on AI utilisation in academic writing. Despite differences, both groups express positive experiences and benefits from AI. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the transformative impact of AI and AuI on teaching and learning in a distance learning university. AI has far-reaching effects on lecturers, students, and policymakers as they navigate the integration of intelligent systems in distance learning contexts.
Projecting the Future Self: Methodological Approaches  in Identity-Centered Design  for Sustainable Behavior
Authors: Laura Wilson Sara
Published: September 2024

Identity-Centered Design facilitates the creation of products and services that align with users’ personal and social identities, enhancing user engagement and product longevity. To successfully design for longevity, designers require user research methodologies that accurately forecast the needs of future users. This case study examines the development and application of two specific tools for user research within Identity-Centered Design for Sustainable Behavior, emphasising the importance of understanding the future self and integrating insights from behavioural psychology into sustainable design practices. The first tool, the Eco-Identity Indicator, utilises principles from behavioural psychology to assess dimensions of identity and pro-environmental behaviours. This tool aids in predicting future behaviours and developing products that cater to future user needs. The second tool, a Virtual Reality Time Machine, allows users to visualise and interactively modify projected future scenarios. This approach leverages immersive technology to identify design opportunities to address discrepancies between the projected and ideal future.
Surah An-Nisa Ayat 6-7, 12, 176 Defenisi Tentang warisan
Authors: Ishaq Ishaq
Published: September 2024

Inheritance is the transfer of rights and obligations from the testator to his heirs based on applicable legal provisions. Inheritance does not only include property rights, but also includes all kinds of other rights and obligations that can be valued in money and left by the testator at the time of his death. This transfer process occurs automatically when the testator dies and is mandatory, the purpose of this study is to know and understand about Inheritance, to know and understand about the Interpretation of Surah An-Nisa Verses 6-7, Annisa Verse 12 and Annisa verse 176
DİN VE VİCDAN ÖZGÜRLÜĞÜ GÖRÜNÜMLERİNDE TAKDİR MARJI DOKTRİNİ (İDARİ YARGI İÇTİHATLARIYLA)
Authors: Kızılkaya Doğru Ezgi
Published: September 2024

Avrupa İnsan Hakları Mahkemesi, Avrupa İnsan Hakları Sözleşmesindeki hukuki normların iç hukuka yerleştirilmesi yani esasları yerleştirme aşaması ve süreç temelli denetim yöntemi ile ulusal otoritelerin sözleşme taahhütlerini yerine getirmesini sağlayabilmek amacıyla yaşayan belge doktrini doğrultusunda ikincillik ilkesini ve bu ilkenin işlevsel bir aracı olan takdir marjına içtihatlarında yer vermiştir.
İçtihadi bir kavram olan takdir marjı doktrini, 15 no.lu protokol ile Sözleşmede metinsel olarak yerini almıştır. Bu protokol ile Sözleşme ve ek protokollerde tanımlanan hak ve özgürlükleri koruma sorumluluğunun ikincillik ilkesi gereğince öncelikle sözleşmeci devletlere ait olduğu ve sözleşmeci devletlerin Avrupa İnsan Hakları Mahkemesi’nin denetleyici yargı yetkisine tabi olan takdir marjına sahip oldukları Sözleşmenin önsözünün sonuna eklenmiştir.
Takdir marjı kavramı, Avrupa İnsan Hakları Sözleşmesi’ne taraf devletlere Sözleşmenin standartlarını uygularken kendi ulusal koşullarını dikkate almaya izin veren takdir ölçüsünü belirtmek için kullanılmaktadır. Sözleşmeci devletin olgusal durumları değerlendirmede Sözleşmede yer alan hükümleri uygulamada sahip olduğu serbestiyi ifade etmektedir. Zira Avrupa İnsan Hakları Sözleşmesine taraf 46 devlet bulunmaktadır. Sözleşmeci devletlerin dilleri, dinleri, kültürleri, ideolojileri çeşitlilik içermektedir. Bu nedenle sözleşmeci devletler, din ve inanç özgürlüğü gibi Avrupa konsensüsünün bulunmadığı konularda geniş bir takdir marjına sahiptir. Ancak ulusal makamların takdir marjının denetimi ulusal yargı makamları ve Avrupa İnsan Hakları Mahkemesi’nin denetimi ile el ele yürümektedir.
Bu çalışmada birinci bölümde takdir marjı doktrinin terminolojisi, kapsamı ve ilişkili olduğu insan hakları ilkeleri ele alınacaktır. İkinci bölümde ise din ve vicdan özgürlüğü kapsamında dini semboller ve takdir marjı konusu Avrupa İnsan Hakları Mahkemesi, Anayasa Mahkemesi ve idari yargı içtihatlarında ele alınacaktır. Böylece ikincillik ilkesi doğrultusunda takdir marjı tanınan dini sembollere ilişkin konularda sözleşmeci devlet olarak temel hak ve özgürlüklere yapılan müdahalelerde, ulusal yargı makamı olarak idari yargı içtihatlarının sözleşmeci devletin yani davalı idarenin taahhütlerini yerine getirip getirmediğini denetleme kriterlerini ortaya çıkarmak amaçlanmaktadır. Zira ikincillik ilkesi ve takdir marjı, temel hak ve özgürlüklerin sınırlandırılmasında ihlalleri önlemekte birincil yükümlülüğü sözleşmeci devletlerin ulusal makamlarına yüklemektedir. Bu nedenle takdir marjı kapsamında ulusal yargı makamı olarak idari yargı içtihatlarının Avrupa İnsan Hakları Mahkemesi içtihatlarının denetimi ile el ele yürüyüp yürümediği ele alınacaktır.
Escalado piloto de la producción de galletas de arroz integral suplementadas con Stevia rebaudiana y Moringa oleifera para su uso como suplemento nutricional
Authors: Almora-Hernández E. , Monteagudo-Borges R. , Lago-Abascal V. , Rodríguez-Jiménez E.
Published: September 2024

Introducción: En los últimos años, la demanda y el consumo de alimentos que contienen nutrientes y otros compuestos  con propiedades beneficiosas para la salud han  aumentado rápidamente; éstos son conocidos como  alimentos funcionales. La producción de galletas es una de las actividades que se encuentra en todas partes del  mundo, mostrando distintas presentaciones y con nuevas  formulaciones. El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar  la obtención a escala piloto de galletas de arroz integral  suplementadas con Stevia rebaudiana (10%) y Moringa oleifera (20%), mediante la verificación de la uniformidad  de los lotes producidos. Método: Se realizaron cinco  procesos de producción. Se estudió la unificación del  proceso a través del rendimiento, se determinaron las  características fisicoquímicas de las galletas: la humedad  por el método gravimétrico, el contenido de proteínas,  grasas, fibras, cenizas y almidón por espectroscopía del  infrarrojo cercano y el análisis sensorial mediante una  escala hedónica. Resultados: El análisis de rendimiento en  base a la cantidad de galletas obtenidas en cada operación productiva se comportó con una uniformidad del 98.82%. Los panelistas no manifestaron ninguna inconformidad  con relación a las características organolépticas en cuanto  a los atributos color, olor, aspecto y textura. La composición proximal de los diferentes lotes de galletas  suplementadas con Moringa y Stevia, presentó valores  similares de todas las variables fisicoquímicas analizadas. Conclusión: Se logró galletas de arroz integral  suplementadas con Moringa oleifera (20%) y Stevia  rebaudiana (10%) con un rendimiento superior a 92%, un  producto que puede ser utilizado para consumo humano,  que cumple con los requisitos de calidad y sensoriales.
Adults Behaving Badly: The Effects of Own and Peer Parents’ Incarceration on Adolescent Criminal Activities
Authors: Fletcher Jason
Published: September 2024

A maturing literature across the social sciences suggests important impacts of the intergenerational transmission of crime as well as peer effects that determine youth criminal activities. This paper explores these channels by examining gender-specific effects of maternal and paternal incarceration from both own-parents and classmate-parents. This paper also adds to the literature by exploiting across-cohort, within school exposure to peer parent incarceration to enhance causal inference. While the intergenerational correlations of criminal activities are similar by gender (father-son/mother-son), the results suggest that peer parent incarceration transmits effects largely along gender lines, which is suggestive of specific learning mechanisms. Peer maternal incarceration increases adolescent female criminal activities and reduces male crime and the reverse is true for peer paternal incarceration. These effects are strongest for youth reports of selling drugs and engaging in physical violence. In contrast, the effects of peer parental incarceration on other outcomes, such as GPA, do not vary by gender.
Digit span and Bisyllabic non-word span: Italian norms
Authors: Priftis Konstantinos , GASPARRE DAPHNE , CARAZZOLO DENYSE , VACCARO VALERIA , Toffano Roberta , Pitteri Marco , Grassi Massimo
Published: September 2024

BackgroundWe standardized a new version of the Digit span test and the first version of the Bisyllabic non-words span test, measuring the phonological loop, in an Italian sample of neurologically healthy adults. MethodsAll stimuli were administered to the participants through a computerized procedure to avoid the influence of the examiner on participants’ performance. We used a preliminary test to exclude the presence of sensory/perceptual and articulatory/motor processes that might have influenced the results. ResultsThe results revealed that both Age and Education were significant predictors of participants’ performance on the Digit span test. By contrast, only Age predicted significantly participants’ performance on the Bisyllabic non-word span test. The average Digit span was approximately twice as large as the average Bisyllabic non-word span, suggesting that the latter might be a strategy-free measure of the phonological loop. ConclusionsThe Bisyllabic Non-word span is an innovative and specific measure for identifying phonological short-term memory deficits. For all tests, Adjusted and Equivalent points are provided to facilitate results interpretation and clinical applicability.
Overfitting in Regression Discontinuity Designs: A Reconsideration Of Global and Local Models
Authors: Albada Melle R.
Published: September 2024

In regression discontinuity designs, global models using high-order polynomial functions of the running variable have a reputation for overfitting. Specifically in data sets with a weak relation between the outcome and running variable, such models can produce an unstable fit near the discontinuity. This leads to inflated estimates of the treatment effect and invalid confidence intervals. While the regression discontinuity literature suggests the local linear model as a solution, this paper demonstrates that the local linear model does not effectively prevent overfitting. By excluding observations further from the discontinuity, the local linear model relies more heavily on the remaining observations, which can result in implausibly steep fits. Through simulation evidence, experimental benchmark comparisons, and empirical applications, I show that local linear models are generally as likely to overfit as global fourth-order polynomial models. In contrast, global second- and third-order polynomial models reduce estimate variability compared to the local linear model. This paper therefore recommends complementing the local linear model with global second- and third-order polynomial models to demonstrate robustness against overfitting.
More than Misogyny: The Merit of a Mental Health Perspective in Incel Research
Authors: Costello William , Daly Sarah E. , Sparks Brandon , Thomas Andrew G.
Published: September 2024

Incels (involuntary celibates) are a misogynistic online subculture of men who form their identity around their perceived inability to establish sexual relationships. This commentary addresses the critique presented by Carian et al. (2023) in "Intervening in Problematic Research Approaches to Incel Violence," published in Men and Masculinities. Carian et al. dismiss the role of poor mental health and loneliness in understanding incel-related harm, focusing primarily on societal misogyny. In contrast, we present extensive empirical evidence to argue that mental health is a critical factor contributing to both inward and outward expressions of harm within the incel community. We emphasize the need for a multifaceted approach that includes direct engagement with incels, primary data collection, and triangulation with linguistic analyses of forum content. Additionally, we highlight the bidirectional effects between romantic difficulties, misogyny, aggression, and poor mental health, showing how these factors reinforce each other. We challenge theoretical constructs such as "Himpathy" (the idea that men receive undue sympathy) and "toxic masculinity," noting their lack of empirical support and questioning their utility in incel research. Instead, we advocate for integrating feminist theories with frameworks like evolutionary psychology to better inform our understanding of incel behavior. We also critique stereotypical depictions of incels as universally violent and sexually entitled. We highlight the ethnic and political diversity within the incel community, cautioning against conflating all incels with the violent actions of a few. Furthermore, we address ad hominem assumptions about the genders and sexualities of incel researchers, arguing they detract from scholarly debate. Throughout, we propose evidence-based interventions that move beyond a one-dimensional analysis of misogyny, fostering a balanced research approach that acknowledges the complex factors driving incel behavior and the risks incels pose to themselves and others.
Rethinking reinforcement learning: The interoceptive origin of reward
Authors: Weber Lilian , Yee Debbie Marianne , Small Dana Melanie , Petzschner Frederike Hermi
Published: September 2024

Rewards play a crucial role in sculpting all motivated behavior. Traditionally, research on reinforcement learning has centered on how rewards guide learning and decision-making. Here, we examine the origins of rewards themselves. Specifically, it is now well-recognized that the critical reinforcing signal for food is generated internally and subliminally during the process of digestion. As such, a shift in our understanding of rewards as an immediate sensory gratification to a state-dependent evaluation of an action's impact on vital physiological processes is called for. We integrate this perspective into a revised reinforcement learning framework that recognizes the subliminal nature of biological rewards and their dependency on internal states and goals.
Begabungsforschung und Talententwicklung. Ein Blick zurück – nach vorn
Authors: Weigand Gabriele , Fischer Christian
Published: September 2024

Der Beitrag beschreibt überblicksartig den aktuellen Stand der Begabungsforschung und Talententwicklung im Rahmen historischer Entwicklungen und zukünftiger Perspektiven aus Sicht der Bildungswissenschaften. Hierbei werden zunächst psychologische Intelligenzkonzepte und Begabungsmodelle skizziert sowie pädagogische und gesellschaftliche Spannungsfelder der Begabungsforschung und Talententwicklung etwa im Kontext von inklusiver Begabungsförderung und Bildungsgerechtigkeit diskutiert. Darüber hinaus werden mit der transformativen Begabungsförderung und nachhaltigen Talententwicklung zukunftsorientierte Perspektiven für eine Neuausrichtung der Begabungsforschung und Talententwicklung erläutert.
Balance of Payment and its Determinants
Authors: Pramshu Nepal  , Santosh Khanal  , Hem Chandra Dhakal
Published: September 2024

The Balance of Payments (BOP) is a critical measure of a country's economic transactions with the global economy, comprising the current, capital, and financial accounts. This study investigates the direct determinants of Nepal's BOP, focusing on exports, imports, foreign direct investment (FDI), and remittances from 2006 to 2019. Utilizing a quantitative research methodology, the study applies an Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model to analyze the long-term and short-term relationships among these variables. The findings indicate that imports negatively impact the BOP, with a 1% increase in imports reducing the BOP by 0.72%. Conversely, remittances positively influence the BOP, where a 1% rise in remittances enhances the BOP by 1.06%. Although exports and FDI show positive correlations with the BOP, their impacts are not statistically significant, highlighting structural challenges in Nepal's export sector and investment climate. Diagnostic tests confirm the robustness of the ARDL model, indicating no serial correlation, heteroscedasticity, and normally distributed residuals. The present study highlights the need for strategies to manage imports, facilitate remittances, diversify and enhance exports, and attract foreign direct investment. Policymakers should focus on promoting domestic production, creating favorable conditions for remittance flows, improving export quality and market access, and fostering a conducive investment climate, while employing robust analytical techniques and considering long-term strategic planning for sustainable economic growth and BOP improvement.
विश्व राजनीतिमा वैज्ञानिक समाजवादी चिन्तनको विकास {The Development of Scientific Socialist Thought in World Politics}
Authors: मैनाली Mainali गोविन्द प्रसाद Govinda Prasad
Published: September 2024

This article examines the development of scientific socialist thought in world politics. Key milestones considered include the formation of the Communist League, the publication of the Communist Manifesto, the establishment of the First International, the Paris Commune, the Second International, the October Socialist Revolution, the Third International, and the Cominform. Scientific socialist thought began with the publication of the Communist Manifesto by Marx and Engels in 1848 and developed gradually over time. This evolution is marked by a series of significant historical events. The study traces the formation of the Communist League, the creation and dissemination of the Communist Manifesto, the establishment of the First International under Marx's leadership, the Paris Commune revolution by workers and the proletariat, the formation of the Second International under Engels' guidance, Lenin's leadership in the Russian Socialist Revolution and the formation of the Third International, and the establishment of the Cominform under Stalin's leadership. The article uses an inductive method to explore these developments and aims to illuminate the progression of scientific socialist thought in world politics.
Economic Analysis of Recyclable Waste Management Systems in Bheemdatt
Authors: Pant Keshab Raj
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the economic analysis of recyclable waste management systems in Bheemdatt Municipality, Kanchanpur, Nepal. It aims to analyze the current state of recyclable waste management, focusing on understanding the situation and analyzing economic perspectives. Employing a mixed-methods approach, it utilizes Key Informant Interviews (KII) and semi-structured questionnaires for primary data collection, supplemented by secondary data sources. The findings highlight despite challenges such as poor technology and limited municipal involvement, the municipality demonstrates resilience in regulating scrap collection activities and revenue generation through taxation, facilitated by private sectors, underscoring the economic viability of recycling initiatives. Major findings from analysis shows an increasing ratio of e-waste, poor technological and management practices by the municipality, and a notable presence of female workers in the waste management sector. The study concludes that e-waste, such as batteries and electronic devices, is on the rise in municipal waste, offering recyclable possibilities and contributing significantly to the recyclable materials. Additionally, it can be concluded that recyclable waste is economic viability of recycling initiatives for local government in which female workers are more prevalent than male workers in the collection and management of recyclable waste in the study area. Continuous review and adjustment of taxation policies, investment in recycling infrastructure, promotion of circular economy principles, exploration of emerging market opportunities, and capacity building for waste collectors and scrap center workers are recommendations of the study which can enhance the economic sustainability of recycling initiatives for the local government.
SLP Research with ICT Modules by ERDCN in Rural Areas of Nepal
Authors: Baskota Prateet , Shrestha Kiran , Rawal Devendra
Published: September 2024

This research paper analyzes the School Library Program (SLP) based on the field of education through skill development, practical, behavioral, and technical knowledge. The research also focuses on the academic performance and behavioral progress, following the issues and rights to education in rural areas of Nepal with the detailed of the designed modules following Quantitative data analysis of pre 21 schools and later on 28 schools’ surveys. In spite of the increase in literacy rates, Nepal has still been facing so many obstacles in achieving quality education, so the role of GOs, NGOs, and INGOs has been proven to be of prime importance to tackle the challenges and obstacles in the field of Nepalese education. With the increasing steps of the 21st century, technical and advanced change, education has turned out to be the primary need of every individual. Consequently, Nepalese educators have become more conscious of dealing with the issues and rights to education.
Optimasi Naïve Bayes menggunakan Seleksi Fitur Forward Selection untuk Analisis Sentimen Kendaraan Listrik
Authors: Alfarizi Salman , Gunawan Deni , Basri Hasan , Rizqi Mulyawan Alif , Ichsan Nurul
Published: September 2024

Isu pemanasan global menjadi perhatian utama para pemimpin di beberapa negara termasuk Indonesia. Salah satu kontribusi untuk mengurangi emisi karbon yang berakibat pada pemanasan global yaitu dengan menggulirkan kebijakan kendaraan listrik. Pro kontra kebijakan kendaraan Listrik di Indonesia telah merambah ke berbagai ruang diskusi publik termasuk media social X (Twitter). Berdasakan hal tersebut penelitian ini bermaksud untuk menganalisis sentimen Masyarakat pada media social X tentang kebijakan kendaraan Listrik dilakukan klasifikasi dengan memanfaatkan algoritma naïve bayes berbasis forward selection. Berdasarkan pengujian model klasifikasi naïve bayes ditambahkan forward selection dihasilkan accuracy sebesar 82,11% dengan nilai AUC 0,801. Ada kenaikan nilai accuracy sebesar 2,67% dibandingkan tanpa menggunakan seleksi fitur forward selection yang hanya mencapai accuracy dikisaran 79,43 % dengan nilai AUC 0,639. Peneliti menarik Kesimpulan bahwa penggunaan seleksi fitur menggunakan forward selection dapat berkontribusi meningkatkan algoritma naïve bayes dalam klasifikasi sentimen pada kendaraan yang bertenaga listrik.
Clustering Penduduk Kurang Mampu Di Desa Mekar Baru Menggunakan Algoritma K-Means
Authors: Andryan Egy , Abdullah Asrul , Utami Putri Yuli
Published: September 2024

Kemiskinan merupakan masalah yang telah lama ada dan belum terselesaikan oleh pemerintah. Meskipun berbagai upaya seperti program bantuan sosial tunai (BLT) telah dilakukan, masih terdapat kendala dalam pelaksanaannya. Salah satu kendala yang dihadapi pemerintah daerah di Desa Mekar Baru adalah ketidakmerataan dan ketidaktepatan sasaran dalam pendistribusian bantuan sosial. Algoritma K-Means, yang merupakan salah satu algoritma paling populer dan sederhana, digunakan untuk mengelompokkan data penduduk kurang mampu menjadi beberapa klaster. Berdasarkan hasil evaluasi, diperoleh empat klaster: klaster 1 (sangat tidak mampu) dengan 114 data (36,8% dari total data), klaster 0 (sangat mampu) dengan 89 data (28,8%), klaster 3 (mampu) dengan 83 data (26,8%), dan klaster 2 (sangat mampu) dengan 23 data (7,4%). Klaster tersebut diurutkan dari yang memiliki jumlah terbesar hingga terkecil. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengembangkan sebuah aplikasi yang dapat mengidentifikasi klaster dari dataset yang dianalisis menggunakan metode K-Means.
Uncanny Kinship: Canadian Ambivalence to Armenian Persecution in the 1890s
Authors: Ryan Laurel
Published: September 2024

In the 1890s, Canadians reacted with horror to the state-sanctioned massacre of hundreds of thousands of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire. The Hamidian massacres were widely reported as major news, and they were also commented upon in literary and artistic responses of various forms, including essays, poems, and cartoons. Yet even in the ferocity of its condemnation of the massacres, the Canadian public was ambivalent about how — or whether — to help the Armenians. On the one hand, the predominantly Christian settler population felt the stirrings of religious kinship and was moved by this religious identification to offer humanitarian aid to their fellow Christians. On the other hand, they did not want the persecuted Armenians to seek refuge in Canada: they saw Armenians as too different both racially and religiously from their preferred Northern or Western European immigrants. This article explores these opposing factors in Canadian public opinion as demonstrated in literary periodicals of the time, in conjunction with immigration and refugee policy. Even in a time at which the Canadian government was actively recruiting immigrants to colonize Canada’s West, both immigration policy and public opinion became more restrictive and insular.
Homo interfector. Norman Cohn and the Origin of the Montreal Institute for Genocide and Human Rights Studies (1979–90)
Authors: Ferrari Lorenzo
Published: September 2024

The Montreal Institute for Genocide and Human Rights Studies, based at Concordia University in Montreal, is Canada’s leading research institute and advocacy centre for the study of conflicts, mass atrocity, genocide, and human rights. Nowadays, its featured tasks range from mapping prejudices and hatred online, elaborating new strategies to prevent disinformation or fake news, to defending human lives and strengthening democracy in the whole world. The centre hosts several conferences and workshops every year in order to help politicians, diplomats, academics, experts, soldiers, stakeholders, and general public counter extremism in all its forms. The history of this institution is deeply rooted in the attempt to study conflicts and violence following a comparative, interdisciplinary — chiefly historical and, in some ways, socio-psycho-historical — approach which emerge from the work of the British historian Norman Rufus Colin Cohn (1915–2007) and his Centre for Research in Collective Psychopathology (1962–80). This article deals with the hitherto unexplored contribution of Cohn, his studies on antisemitism and witch hunt in the creation of the Montreal Institute for Genocide and Human Rights Studies.
The clinical and Regulatory Status of NDSRI: A Global Imperatisve
Authors: Tiwari Ritu
Published: September 2024

Detecting N-nitrosamine impurities in medicines has been a significant challenge for drug manufacturers and regulators, especially with the recent emergence of nitrosamine drug substance-related impurities (NDSRIs). The formation of NDSRIs is complex and primarily associated with reactions in the drug product. This paper explores the current technical knowledge on forming these impurities, including the risk factors, reaction conditions, and possible mitigation strategies. While significant scientific progress has been made in these areas, substantial gaps in mechanistic knowledge still make accurate predictions of NDSRI formation very difficult. The pharmaceutical industry must continue to work on potential mitigation strategies and generate additional scientific data to address these knowledge gaps. Regulatory guidance and policy will continue to evolve in response to further changes in scientific understanding. In this article, we will delve into the detection methods, the mechanism of action, sample preparation techniques, and regulatory limits for nitrosamine impurities. We also discuss various reported nitrosamine impurities, their chemical structures, and their detection using methods like LC-MS/MS, GC-MS-HS, and HPLC. Additionally, we discuss different sample preparation techniques, such as solid-phase extraction, liquid-liquid extraction, and rapid-fire techniques. This review is intended to provide detailed information to analytical personnel working in various quality control laboratories and research organizations.
The trend of Augmentative and Alternative Communication within schools in Rome and surrounding areas
Authors: Sonnino Fabiana
Published: September 2024

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is a set of techniques, strategies, and technologies designed to improve the communication skills of people with verbal language difficulties. This practice facilitates social and school integration, especially for individuals with developmental disabilities such as autism and cerebral palsy by not replacing verbal language, but enhancing it, using symbols and images to support oral communication. In recent times, AAC has been implemented in schools to facilitate the learning and inclusion of pupils with neuro-diversity, creating school environments adapted to individual needs. AAC, through tools such as visual planners and communication charts, not only improves communication skills, but also supports children's emotional, cognitive, and social skills. The initiative was appreciated by both pupils with communication difficulties and their classmates, fostering an inclusive and interactive learning environment. Despite the benefits, challenges remain related to bias towards the use of these tools and the need for more training of school staff. Raising awareness and inclusion of all school actors are essential to overcome these critical issues and promote full inclusion through the enhancement of differences.
Constructing a combined brand identity
Authors: YAHELSKA Kateryna , VASYLYSHYNA Liubov
Published: September 2024

Identity has acquired the status of a key concept in social, cultural and economic contexts, because it affects the formation of human values, beliefs, preferences and behavior, in particular, consumer behavior. Moreover, consumption itself has long been a stable form of organizing social life, as it focuses on almost all social positions, becoming an almost ideal identifier. Because of this, the research of the target audience is considered the basis of bran­ding, because its coincidence with the brand identity significantly increases consumer loyalty to the brand. On the other hand, brands tend to become part of the consumerʼs self-concept, influencing his values and lifestyle. It highlights the different roles of identity as an influencer (consumer on the brand) and as an object of influence (brand on the consumer). The search for ways to achieve a balance between consumer identity and brand identity outlined the research hypothesis, that systemic and structural app­roach will allow taking into account all elements of the consumerʼs identity in the process of brand identity formation and bring the "brand-consumer" relationship to a new emotional level through the construction of a complex, joint identity. Based on the methods of scientific ana­lysis and synthesis, conceptualization and struc­tural modelling, the key components of consumer identity and brand identity were identified. The structure of the consumerʼs identity has been improved by supplementing it with goals and ambitions of the consumer. A categorical apparatus of brand management has been developed due to the introduction of the concept of "combined brand identity", the starting condi­tion for the construction of which is the analysis of the consumerʼs identity. The result of the proposed system-structural approach is a gene­ralized matrix that allows forming a combi­ned brand identity through a combination of diffe­rent level factors of consumer identity and constituent elements of brand identity. The appli­cation of a system-structural approach will provide a detailed analysis of various consumer segments and will allow determining which elements of the consumerʼs identity should be reproduced in the brand for each segment. This will help to transform the brandʼs partnership with the consumer into a vital priority based on emotional intelligence
John Jay College Social Justice Landmark Cases eReader
Authors:   John Jay College of Criminal Justice
Published: September 2024

The Justice eReader presents Landmark Supreme cases in their social and historical context and examines their impact on criminal justice, law, culture and politics in the United States.
Growth Failure in Thalassemia Major Patients in Samples of Iraqi Patients
Authors:   Department of Pediatrics College of Medicine, University of Al-Qadisiyah, Iraq, ABDULHASSAN Shaima’A Dakhel
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Thalassemia, a hereditary autosomal recessive blood disorder, arises from genetic abnormalities leading to a diminished synthesis rate of one of the globin chains constituting hemoglobin. The integration of transfusion and chelation therapies has significantly elongated the lifespan of individuals diagnosed with thalassemia. This study aims to understand growth failure among individuals with beta-thalassemia major when compared to typically developing children of similar age groups. Additionally, the research explores the potential hormone treatment requirement in this situation. Methods: Between November 1, 2019, and June 7, 2020, case-control research was carried out at the Thalassemia Centre of the Maternity and Children Hospital in Diwaniyah. The dataset included data from 100 thalassemic patients receiving blood transfusions and normal follow-up visits at the hospital. The patients ranged in age from 5 to 15 years. In addition, data were collected from 100 individuals without thalassemia, also within the same age range. Collected data encompassed age, gender, height, and weight, evaluated using the clinical growth chart from CDC. Further details recorded included the frequency of blood transfusions, the chelating agent used, serum ferritin levels, and hormone levels. Results: We discovered that, with a P value less than 0.0001, there is a significant difference in normal weight between healthy children and beta thalassemic patients. Additionally, the healthy children were found to be taller than the beta thalassemic patients. Conclusion: The study has revealed that the growth failure rate is directly linked to recurrent blood transfusion, and iron overload & resulting endocrine dysfunction.
High Risk Patient with ADM Breast Reconstruction
Authors:   ”Agrippa Ionescu” Emergency Clinical Hospital Bucharest, Romania, MARES Teodor , CORCIU Costinela ,   ”Agrippa Ionescu” Emergency Clinical Hospital Bucharest, Romania, MEHEDINTU-IONESCU Mihai ,   ”Agrippa Ionescu” Emergency Clinical Hospital Bucharest, Romania
Published: September 2024

Breast reconstruction following mastectomy plays a vital role in many individuals’ recovery, symbolizing a shift from loss back to wholeness. Yet, this path can be complex, particularly in instances involving complicating factors such as radiotherapy and significant breast size. In such scenarios, often viewed as suboptimal for implant-based breast reconstruction, prioritizing the patient’s preferences is crucial. This article showcases the experience of a 50-year-old Caucasian woman who came to our department with a breast lump, later diagnosed as invasive mammary carcinoma of no specific type (NST) via percutaneous biopsy. Post a radical mastectomy of the left breast, left axillary lymphadenectomy and the placement of an expander beneath the pectoralis major muscle, she underwent radiotherapy following the tumor board’s advice due to positive lymph nodes. Patient opted not to have autologous breast reconstruction and we proceeded with the second phase, exchanging the expander for a breast implant and adding Acellular Dermal Matrix (ADM) in the infero-lateral pole of the breast for essential support and stability. Despite the challenges faced, our case successfully illustrates that with careful surgical planning and a patient diligently following postoperative care, implant-based breast reconstruction with ADM’s support can be effectively and safely achieved, even in less-than-ideal situations, fulfilling patient expectations.
Capacity Building and Strengthening Institutions: Global and Regional Perspective
Authors: Farooq Mian Haris , Chaudhry Abid Ghafoor , Karim Asia
Published: September 2024

This study is about capacity building and institutional strengthening to increase social resistance. The research applies the Analytic Hierarchical Process (AHP) to weight and rank factors in levels two and three of the framework, which reveals vital characteristics within planning, organization; equipment; education & exercise. This study underlines the importance and centrality relevant to the B2 Disaster Response Plan, B4 District Management Leading Agency, B5 Grass Roots Working Organization (GWO), as well as, B8 District Management Resources. Qualitative insights enhance the complement, recognizing the comprehensiveness of Disaster Risk Assessment (B1) and suggestions for fine tuning. This paper offers suggestions for further cleanup techniques, and how the results may apply to a wider sample population as described in future research. Results offer a detailed guide for improving efforts to respond and recover after climate disasters.
An Eco-Stylistic Analysis of Agha Shahid Aliâ€™s I See Kashmir from New Dehli at Midnight
Authors: Ali Rashid , Ali Maratab , Haider Imran
Published: September 2024

The basic aim of this study is to foreground the ecological elements through, metaphors, deviations, and parallelisms in Agha Shahid Ali's I See Kashmir from New Delhi at Midnight (2002). The study is qualitative in nature and is based on an interpretive paradigm. The text is used as a primary source of data for the analysis. The data is analyzed through closed reading and textual analysis. The present study uses Halliday’s Systemic Functional Grammar (1985) and Zurru’s (2017) approach as a theoretical framework. The analysis highlights that Agha Shahid Ali has used lexical, graphological, semantic, syntactic, and phonological deviations along with lexical, grammatical, and semantic parallelisms in I See Kashmir from New Delhi at Midnight (2002) to emphasize the fragility and beauty of Kashmir’s natural environment, the impacts of human conflict on the region’s ecology, and the resilience of the natural world amidst political turmoil.
A Sentiment Analysis of User Comments on Instagram Marriage Posts of Selected Pakistani Actors
Authors: Qazalbash Farwa , Hassan Khan Mohsin , Naz Alishbah
Published: September 2024

The study investigated the comments on marriage posts of Pakistani actors to analyze the interplay between negative and positive user-generated opinions. Utilizing tools such as MeaningCloud a comprehensive analysis was carried out on 2000 diverse sets of comments from the marriage posts of 10 Pakistani celebrities. The positive comments were loaded with expressions like 'MashAllah', and 'Cute Couple' to convey admiration for the newly married. However, the findings also reveal the presence of negative sentiments which also emphasize the complexities that arise when public opinion is shaped by conservative societies with strong religious influence. Negative comments are loaded with expressions like 'mujra’ for couple dance, and dislikeness for actors' life choices with words such as 'buri(bad)'. Thus, it can be construed that on one hand, the positive comments reflect joy and appreciation for achieving a personal milestone like marriage, on the other negative comments indicate adherence to religious and cultural norms.
An Examination of green space exposure for well-being: a case study of Colombo city
Authors:   Department of Architecture, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Samaranayake H.S.A.J. , Coorey S.B.A.
Published: September 2024

The rapid increase in population density has led to a scarcity of green spaces and limited access to green space for urban dwellers. Green spaces play an important role in promoting human well-being; both socially and psychologically. Ensuring equal access to green spaces is essential for creating equitable cities. When everyone has the opportunity to enjoy parks, gardens, and natural areas, it contributes to a healthier and more inclusive urban environment. However, Colombo, Sri Lanka’s bustling city faces challenges in providing habitable and accessible green areas for its residents. This paper aims to assess green space exposure in the city of Colombo. The study examines the provisions, distribution, and accessibility of green areas across CMC’s administrative areas, including North Colombo, Central Colombo 1, Central Colombo 2, Colombo East, Colombo West, and Borella. By using a multidimensional approach that combines ArcGIS mapping, spatial tools, population statistics, and remote sensing (via NDVI mapping), the research explores green space availability and proximity-based accessibility for the diverse urban population. This investigation is crucial for informed urban planning and enhancing the quality of life for Colombo’s residents.
A Comparative analysis of operational energy by simulation study between modern buildings and adaptive reuse of historic buildings in Sri Lanka
Authors:   Department of Agricultural Engineering and Environmental Technology, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka, Thirukumaran N. , Prabodani M.K.M. ,   Department of Civil Engineering, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Ranasinghe S.S. ,   Department of Agricultural Engineering and Environmental Technology, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka, Jayasinghe G.Y. J ,   Department of Agricultural Engineering and Environmental Technology, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka, Halwathura R.U. ,   Department of Civil Engineering, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka
Published: September 2024

The adaptive reuse of buildings is emerging as a sustainable solution within the built environment, addressing global challenges like climate change and greenhouse gas emissions faced by the world's population. Opting to repurpose energy-efficient historic buildings during the operational phase instead of demolishing and constructing new structures is recognized as a protective mechanism for urban cultural heritage. The escalating operational energy consumption in the building sector poses direct and indirect environmental, economic, and social concerns for occupants. This study aimed to compare the operational energy efficiency of adaptive reuse historic buildings and modern structures, seeking to identify the most energy-efficient building type. Energy consumption patterns, especially for air conditioning and lighting in residential houses, were gathered and simulated using DesignBuilder software, considering building materials as variables in both the old and new phases of the buildings. Ten Dutch-era residential dwellings were selected, and a specific schedule was analysed for energy simulations. The average Energy Use Intensity (EUI) value for old buildings in the scheduled case was lower than the newly modelled buildings. The research concludes that old historic buildings are comparatively more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly than new buildings for operational use based on the building envelope in the selected study area..
Compare VR vs. conventional training for construction workers' safety awareness
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Hewagarusinghe S.H. , Sridarran P. ,   Department of Facilities Management, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka
Published: September 2024

In recent years, Sri Lanka’s construction industry has seen a troubling increase in both fatal and non-fatal accidents, largely attributed to insufficient safety knowledge among workers and deficiencies in the health and safety system. To mitigate these accidents, effective occupational health and safety training is imperative. However, the efficacy of traditional safety training methods has been questioned due to their limited impact on workers’ ability to identify and assess risks critically. The lack of experiential training is the primary cause of accidents that could have been easily avoided at construction sites in Sri Lanka. Addressing this gap, there is growing interest in utilising Virtual Reality (VR) as a powerful tool for experiential safety training in the construction sector. VR offer a realistic and safe environment where workers can engage with various scenarios and procedures, enhancing their understanding and awareness of safety protocols. This research explores the effectiveness of VR tools in enhancing safety knowledge and awareness among construction workers through a simulation safety training platform, using VR and PowerPoint methods for data collection. An experiment was conducted with VR and PowerPoint safety training methods as a data collection method. A questionnaire survey was conducted to compare conventional training methods with the VR solution. The results indicate that workers trained in VR environments had better retention of critical information, highlighting the efficiency of VR in providing a safe yet realistic training experience. This research emphasises the potential advantages of the suggested VR safety training methods in improving construction safety knowledge and awareness of construction workers.
Enhancing data security in smart buildings leveraging blockchain technology
Authors:   Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Divaneth D. Rashmitha , Mapa M.M.I.S. ,   Department of Facilities Management, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Konara Gayani ,   Ritsumeikan University, Japan, Samarakoon W.K.U.R.M.K.P.K. ,   Department of Facilities Management, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka
Published: September 2024

This article investigates the use of blockchain technology to improve data security in smart buildings, addressing the growing vulnerabilities caused by the interdependence of IoT devices. The paper thoroughly examines the existing issues and limitations of traditional security solutions in smart buildings. Through a comprehensive literature review and qualitative analysis, this research identifies decentralisation, cryptographic mechanisms, transparency, and distributed ledger technology as core features of blockchain that can significantly improve data security and confidentiality in smart buildings. This paper qualitatively assesses the importance of the identified blockchain features which enhance data security in the context of smart buildings aiming to create a secured system environment that enhances data security and prevents unauthorised access. The methodology employs a qualitative approach, including semi-structured interviews with industry experts and data analysis, to validate the effectiveness of the identified blockchain features. According to the findings, blockchain not only improves data transaction security yet nurtures a resilient infrastructure to meet the changing demands of smart building management. The study contributes to academic literature and provides practical insights for professionals looking to adopt blockchain-based security solutions in smart buildings, with implications for legislation and future research paths.