bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Ethnoscience on the Teaching of Optics: Thinking Relevance, Effectiveness and Student Retention
Authors: Anamezie Rose , Gumbo Mishack
Published: January 2024

Physics students’ poor retention culminates in poor achievement owing to teaching methods that are unrelated to their culture. This study determined the effectiveness of the ethnoscience-based teaching method on student retention in Optics by adopting a non-equivalent control group design on 160 students. The experimental class was taught rectilinear propagation of light using the ethnoscience-based teaching method, while the control class was taught the same topic using the lecture method. The collected data were analysed using arithmetic mean and analysis of covariance (
p< .05). The results indicated a higher retention for the use of the ethnoscience-based teaching method than the lecture method, while there was no significant gender-based factor in the students’ performance. The use of the ethnoscience-based teaching method could transform science teaching, enhance students’ construction of new science concepts based on their existing knowledge and bridge the gap between Western science and students’ world views.
Influence of Preoperative Pain, Cognitions, and Quantitative Sensory Testing Measures on the Effects of Perioperative Pain Neuroscience Education for People Receiving Surgery for Lumbar Radiculopathy: Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Van Bogaert Wouter , Coppieters Iris , Nijs Jo , Buyl Ronald , Ickmans Kelly , Moens Maarten , Goudman Lisa , Putman Koen , Huysmans Eva
Published: January 2024

OBJECTIVE: To explore whether preoperative pain intensity, pain cognitions, and quantitative sensory measures influence the established effectiveness of perioperative pain neuroscience education (PPNE) on health-related quality of life at 1 year after surgery for lumbar radiculopathy.

DESIGN: Secondary analysis of a triple-blinded randomized controlled trial.

METHODS: Participants (n = 90) were Dutch-speaking adults (18-65 years) who were scheduled for surgery for lumbar radiculopathy in 3 Belgian hospitals. They were randomized (1:1) to receive PPNE (n = 41) or perioperative biomedical education (n = 49). Linear mixed models were built for health-related quality of life (ie, SF-6D utility values, Physical and Mental Component of the 36-item Short Form Health Survey) using the following independent variables: therapy, time, and preoperative scores for back and leg pain intensity, pain catastrophizing, kinesiophobia, hypervigilance, and quantitative sensory measures.

RESULTS: The impact of PPNE on SF-6D utility values over time was influenced by kinesiophobia (F = 3.30, P = .02) and leg pain intensity (F = 3.48, P = .02). Regardless of the intervention, back pain intensity negatively influenced SF-6D values over time (F = 3.99, P = .009). The Physical Component scores were negatively impacted by back pain intensity (F = 9.08, P = .003) and were influenced over time by leg pain intensity (F = 2.87, P = .04). The Mental Component scores were negatively impacted by back pain intensity (F = 6.64, P = .01) and pain catastrophizing (F = 5.42, P = .02), as well as hypervigilance (F = 3.16, P = .03) and leg pain intensity (F = 3.12, P = .03) over time.

CONCLUSION: PPNE may be more effective than perioperative biomedical education in improving postoperative health utility values in patients who reported higher kinesiophobia and leg pain intensity before surgery for lumbar radiculopathy. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2024;54(4):279-288. Epub 8 January 2024. doi:10.2519/jospt.2024.12051
Religion and morals in Kant and Kierkegaard
Authors: Abe Paulo
Published: January 2024

Neste artigo, procuraremos analisar como o conceito ético (também como moralidade) em conexão com a religião muda entre Kant e Kierkegaard, dando ênfase ao último. Abordaremos primeiro como Kant define a moralidade e, depois, como ele define que a religião dá suporte e é, de fato, a moralidade, criticando também como ele elabora seu argumento e que evidências ele traz. Na segunda parte, abordaremos Kierkegaard com seu contrastante conceito de religiosidade em Abraão e como ele muda o conceito de religioso e ético com ele, mas trazendo à tona no decorrer da análise alguns pontos frágeis em sua argumentação, tendo em mente a continuidade entre o primeiro e o segundo Kierkegaard.
Do esclarecimento ao cosmopolitismo:
Authors: Martins Joao Paulo Silva
Published: January 2024

As reflexões de Kant sobre a educação estão ligadas com todo o desenvolvimento de sua filosofia moral, visto que é um meio de condução do humano do seu estado de selvageria ao mais elevado grau de desenvolvimento que é a moralidade. Partindo deste pressuposto, outros desdobramentos da pedagogia kantiana se tornam possíveis, como, por exemplo, a importância da educação para a consolidação do projeto de paz perpétua desenvolvido pelo filosofo no capo da filosofia política. Assim como a constituição de uma sociedade dá-se pela superação da liberdade selvagem rumo à liberdade civil dentro de um Estado, a sociedade cosmopolita deve superar a liberdade irrestrita do Estado para uma liberdade legal numa liga dos povos, tendo como fundamento a própria visão teleológica da natureza e a concepção de ser humano como ser capaz de atingir gradativamente a moralidade. Além de conduzir a espécie humana a seu fim último – a moralidade – a educação também precisa direcioná-la a um estado de harmonia que ultrapasse os limites territoriais e políticos entre os estados por meio da formação do sujeito enquanto “cidadão do mundo” pela consolidação de um Estado cosmopolita.
A secularização moderna e perspectivas filosóficas do reavivamento do fenômeno religioso na contemporaneidade
Authors: Oliveira Renato Almeida de
Published: January 2024

O processo de secularização foi desencadeado na modernidade e teve como característica principal a transformação das instituições e das ações humanas individuais, que passaram de uma fundamentação ancorada na esfera sagrada, transcendente, para uma legitimação em termos laicos, seculares. Uma questão, no entanto, com um grau de importância ainda maior para nosso tempo, e que está relacionada com a secularização, é o fenômeno do retorno do religioso na sociedade contemporânea. O que podemos observar é que a secularização não suprimiu a religião de modo completo, como muitos teóricos modernos pensavam. É nesse sentido que falamos de um retorno do religioso hoje, ou seja, a religião (e/ou a religiosidade) passa a ocupar um espaço importante na vida particular dos indivíduos, moldando suas visões de mundo e seus comportamentos, o que tem fortes impactos na esfera pública. Ao contrário do que se esperava, a secularização abriu espaço à proliferação de um grande número de manifestações e seitas religiosas. É partindo desta constatação que pretendo contribuir com o debate contemporâneo sobre o fenômeno religioso, trazendo à reflexão as ideias de Luc Ferry e Gianni Vattimo.
Acerca da tópica como técnica do pensamento orientada para o problema:
Authors: Freitas Lorena
Published: January 2024

A dúvida que anima este ensaio está na aproximação entre a operação intelectiva do sujeito diante do edifício de sua pesquisa e a proposta de Theodor Viehweg ao examinar o modo de pensar problemático. Assim, busca-se explorar a pertinência da referência viehwegiana (ao identificar a estrutura tópica da jurisprudência como decorrência de um pensar problematizante) para a construção do processo de conhecimento, cuja natureza é também de um pensamento problemático. Se o pensar cientificamente é um processo de conhecimento pelo que um caminho da reflexão é erigido para responder problemas, questionamentos, estímulos que um dado objeto cognoscível provoca no sujeito cognoscente, independente da percepção do ponto de partida na dúvida ou na crença, o problema de pesquisa é a figura ímpar da produção de conhecimento científico.
Exploring physical education teachers’ experiences with incorporating technology into instruction
Authors: Culajara Carla Jobelle , Dizon John Loui , Lao Anabella , Bandoy Delverden
Published: January 2024

Keeping up with evolving concepts and teaching new knowledge require individuals to adapt to 21st century abilities in order to be future-ready and versatile in keeping up with the trends of an ever-changing educational landscape. Technology integration is a huge assist in offering meaningful and creative quality education services. The purpose of this study is to acquire an in-depth undertanding of physical education teachers' experiences with integrating ICT into lesson delivery. The study utilized qualitative study which employs a phenomenological approach. Purposive sampling was utilized in the study to fulfill the study's purpose of answering research concerns where 7 physical education teachers participated the study. Codes and themes were used in the study. Three themes emerged in the study: dynamic teaching and learning experiences, lack of access, and health problems. This study intends to highlight the significance of adopting and integrating technology into the current teaching and learning process, which highlights the significance of teaching of physical education teachers’ with showcasing the technical capabilities and skills. Additionally, by incorporating ICT, the study will highlight its beneficial outcomes and serves as a strategy will be developed to deal with the difficulties instructors have faced by creating policies for improving teachers’ technological skills as a result of these difficulties. The use of ICT to give instruction in physical education classes will highlight the study's beneficial effects. Every physical education teacher who uses ICT to give lessons in concepts, principles, and teaching and learning will benefit from the clarity this study will bring.
Improving volleyball competence: E-module-based volleyball learning media innovation
Authors: Kasih Indra , Faridah Eva , Widianingsih Onyas , Sinulingga Albadi , Amirzan
Published: January 2024

The urgent need for the creation of cutting-edge learning media in the context of volleyball learning served as the driving force behind this study. The main objective was to develop and validate the E-Module as an innovative learning tool specifically focused on skill development in volleyball. The research method applied was the development method with the ADDIE approach (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation). Data collection was done through questionnaires and documentation, while data analysis used quantitative descriptive techniques. The results showed that E-Module as an innovative learning tool in volleyball can be developed successfully. This finding highlighted the important role of experts in the development of e-modules and opened up new insights into the potential of technology in supporting the learning of sport practices, especially in the context of volleyball. While the results of this study showed a positive impact, there are limitations in the context and sample of the study. Therefore, further research is needed to explore the impact of student motivation on the use of the E-Module in volleyball learning as well as generalise these findings to other sport learning contexts. This E-Module can not only be a reference for further research in the field of sports learning media development, especially volleyball, but also be recognised as an excellent product of E-Module-Based Volleyball Learning. Thus, this research contributes not only to academic knowledge but also to the practice of sports learning, especially volleyball.
WACANA BERITA PEMBERLAKUAN PEMBATASAN KEGIATAN MASYARAKAT (PPKM) PADA KUMPARAN.COM PERIODE JULI 2021 (ANALISIS SEMIOTIKA SOSIAL M.A.K HALLIDAY)
Authors: Oktalisa Nurul Eka , Benni Handayani
Published: January 2024

Pemberlakuan Pembatasan Kegiatan Masyarakat (PPKM) menjadi isu nasional yang diberitakan oleh media-media yang menimbulkan pro dan kontra ditengah-tengah masyarakat. Penelitian ini bertujuan mengetahui bagaimana analisis semiotika sosial pada pemberitaan PPKM di situs berita kumparan.com. Penelitian ini menggunakan Semiotika Sosial Michael Alexander Kirkwood (M.A.K) Halliday termasuk dalam model Analisis Wacana yang mampu mengetahui bagaimana isi teks, pesan dikemas dan disampaikan dengan tiga konsep diantaranya adalah medan wacana, pelibat wacana, dan sarana wacana. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini yaitu Deskriptif Kualitatif dengan data observasi, dokumentasi, dan wawancara. Penelitian ini menekankan untuk melihat analisis semiotika sosial yang diterapkan oleh situs kumparan.com terkait pemberitaan PPKM periode 21-25 Juli 2021. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pada penelitian ini terdapat adanya keberpihakan media terhadap pemerintah terlihat dari penyampaian program-program pemerintah dengan sangat baik, menghadirkan narasumber sepihak dari pemerintah secara monolog, dan kumparan.com berupaya untuk meminimalisir kekecewaan masyarakat dengan pilihan gaya bahasa yang tepat agar para pembaca menjadi lebih memahami isi berita.
Studi Fenomenologi Media Sosial Sebagai Media Komunikasi Pembangunan Daerah
Authors: Ivan Taufiq  , Pithaloka Dyah , Rahmadani Beva
Published: January 2024

The development of technology is currently very advanced and developed, the development of technology has led to an era that we call the digital era. The digital era is an era where everything related to human life or society is connected to the internet. Digital and internet developments have given rise to a new media, namely social media. Social media is a place for people to display their daily activities or some even use social media to disseminate information.

This research aims to find out how social media is utilized by the community in a positive context, namely disseminating information for regional development, namely Pekanbaru City. The emergence of people who use social media in the context of regional development is certainly an unusual thing or in this study a phenomenon. Social media that has become an active and interactive communication medium is able to provide information related to problems in the community and is also able to become a medium for community aspirations.

The method in this research uses a phenomenological study approach using qualitative analysis. Qualitative research serves to be able to describe in detail the information obtained from informants, The information to be collected in this researcher is how traditional society changes towards digital society in the context of regional development, as well as looking for relationships between communities and the use of social media today. The informants in this study amounted to 5 (five) people, which informants are the people of Pekanbaru City who have Instagram accounts and have used their social media to disseminate information related to criticism or suggestions in Pekanbaru City facilities and infrastructure.

The results of this study show that there are certain factors that researchers have succeeded in obtaining, namely that the community has really understood the culture of digital society, the people of Pekanbaru City have also been able to use their social media to create content related to Pekanbaru City, the existence of communication factors and the development of self-capacity of social media users in Pekanbaru City is also an important point in utilizing social media as a medium for regional development.

Keywords: Phenomenology, Social Media, Communication, Regional Development
Understanding Sorption of Aqueous Electrolytes in Porous Carbon by NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Lyu Dongxun , Märker Katharina , Zhou Yuning , Zhao Evan Wenbo , Gunnarsdóttir Anna , Niblett Samuel , Forse Alex , Grey Clare
Published: January 2024

Ion adsorption at solid–water interfaces is the key process that underlies for many electrochemical processes including energy storage, electrochemical separations, and electrocatalytic applications involving aqueous electrolytes. However, the impact of the hydronium (H3O+) and hydroxide (OH–) ions on the ion adsorption and surface charge distributions are poorly understood, and many fundamental studies of electrochemical double layer capacitors focus on non-aqueous electrolytes to avoid addressing the role of the surface functional groups and the pH in altering ion uptake. This is particularly true for the most widely used materials – namely microporous carbons – where it is especially challenging to achieve a microscopic level characterisation of mixed ion adsorption at their electrode-electrolyte interfaces due to the complex ion dynamics; this is in part due to the disordered and hierarchical structures of the porous carbon electrodes. This work addresses these challenges starting with pH measurements to quantify the adsorbed H3O+ ion concentrations, revealing the basic nature of the activated carbon YP-50F, a common electrode material for supercapacitors and ion separation. Solid-state NMR spectroscopy is then used to study the uptake of the lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)-imide (LiTFSI) aqueous electrolyte in this activated carbon across the full pH range. Analysis of the NMR data shows the importance of including the fast ion-exchange processes involving ions moving in and out of the carbon pores to obtain a more accurate quantification of the adsorbed ions. Under acidic conditions, more anions are adsorbed in the carbon pores than Li cations, charge compensation occurring via the uptake of protons. Under neutral and basic conditions, when the carbon’s surface charge is close to zero, Li+ and TFSI– ions exhibit similar but lower affinities towards the carbon pores. Our experimental approach and evidence of interfacial H3O+ adsorption will lead to advances in the fields of energy storage, colloidal systems, multiphase catalysis, and beyond, providing a methodology to relate local structure to performance.
An anthropocene-framed transdisciplinary dialog at the chemistry-energy nexus
Authors: Prévot Mathieu S. , Finelli Valeria , Carrier Xavier , Deplano Gabriele , Cavallo Margherita , Quadrelli Elsje Alessandra , Michel Juliette , Pietraru Marie-Hélène , Camp Clément , Forghieri Giulia , Gagliardi Anna , Seidel Sebastian , Missemer Antoine , Reuillard Bertrand , Centrella Barbara , Bordiga Silvia , Salamanca González María Grace , Artero Vincent , Birkelbach Keanu V. A. , von Wolff Niklas
Published: January 2024

At the energy-chemistry nexus, key molecules include carbon dioxide (CO2), hydrogen (H2), methane (CH4), and ammonia (NH3). The position of these four molecules and that of the more general family of synthetic macromolecular polymer blends (found in plastics) were cross-analyzed with the Planetary Boundary framework, and as part of five scientific policy roadmaps for the energy transition. According to the scenarios considered, the use of some of these molecules will be drastically modified in the coming years. Ammonia, which is currently almost exclusively synthesized as feedstock for the fertilizer industry, is envisioned as a future carbon-free energy vector. ‘Green hydrogen’ is central to many projected decarbonized chemical processes. Carbon dioxide is forecast to shift from an unavoidable byproduct to a valuable feedstock for the production of carbon-based compounds. In this context, we believe that interdisciplinary elements from history, economics and anthropology are relevant to any attempted cross-analysis. Distinctive and crucial insights drawn from elements of humanities and social sciences have led us to formulate or re-raise open questions and possible blind-spots in main roadmaps, which were developed to guide, inter alia, chemical research toward the energy transition. We consider that these open questions are not sufficiently addressed in the academic arena around chemical research. Nevertheless, they are relevant to our understanding of the current planetary crisis, and to our capacity to properly assess the potential and limitations of chemical research addressing it. This academic perspective was written to share this understanding with the broader academic community. This work is intended not only as a call for a larger interdisciplinary method, to develop a sounder scientific approach to broader scenarios, but also – and perhaps mostly – as a call for the development of radically transdisciplinary routes of research. As scientists with different backgrounds, specialized in different disciplines and actively involved in contributing to shape solutions by means of our research, we bear ethical responsibility for the consequences of our acts, which often lead to consequences well beyond our discipline. Do our research and the knowledge it produces respond, perpetuate or even aggravate the problems encountered by society?
REAL-TIME TOMATO LEAF DISEASE CLASSIFICATION USING CONVOLUTIONAL NEURAL NETWORK
Authors: Hasan Sadhin Amit
Published: January 2024

Like most plant diseases, tomato leaf disease has physical symptoms. The currently accepted technique is for a trained plant pathologist to identify the condition through visual inspection of affected plant leaves and stems. But due to the manual process, the disease identification time and accuracy have always been questionable facts, making the problem a great application area for Computer-aided diagnostic techniques. Due to the durability and cutting-edge performance, the convolutional neural network (CNN) has been proposed in this study for the real-time classification of tomato leaf disease. The picture data used in this study for tomato leaves came from Plant Village databases. The models employed in this study were trained and tested using 16011 images from original and augmented datasets. The results are then applied to create a real-time system for mobile applications. The initial adjustment with the CNN architecture is proposed to get higher accuracy. A step-by-step systematic approach to parameter tuning is also proposed to improve the system’s performance. The proposed methods show maximum prediction accuracies of 98.00%, and 99.04% are achieved.
CYBERSECURITY IN U.S. AND NIGERIA BANKING AND FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS: REVIEW AND ASSESSING RISKS AND ECONOMIC IMPACTS
Authors: Onunka Okeoma , Maxwell Alabi Ayoola , Marius Okafor Chiedozie , Obiki -Osafiele Anwuli Nkemchor , Onunka Tochukwu , Daraojimba Chibuike
Published: January 2024

The digital transformation of the global financial landscape has brought forth unprecedented opportunities and challenges, particularly in the realm of cybersecurity. This paper delves into the intricate dynamics of cybersecurity within the banking sectors of two pivotal players in the global economy: the United States (U.S.) and Nigeria. Through a comprehensive exploration, the study underscores the profound significance of robust cybersecurity measures in safeguarding the integrity and security of financial institutions in today’s interconnected digital age. The research begins with a deep dive into the background of cybersecurity in financial institutions, revealing the escalating importance of digital defenses, especially in an era marked by frequent and sophisticated cyber threats. The interconnectedness of today’s financial systems and the rise of digital transactions amplifies cyber breaches’ potential risks and economic impacts. A comparative study of the U.S. and Nigerian banking systems showcases the unique challenges and solutions each country’s financial institutions face. While the U.S. grapples with issues like money laundering and the need for increased competition, Nigeria’s banking landscape is influenced by factors such as the potential of Islamic banking and the challenges of financial inclusion. Emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, are highlighted as cybersecurity game-changers. Their ability to predict, detect, and respond to threats in real-time offers a promising avenue for enhancing digital defenses. However, the paper also cautions that with technological advancements come new challenges, as adversaries too harness these technologies for more sophisticated attacks. The paper concludes with a forward-looking perspective, emphasizing the need for continuous investment in research, collaboration, education, and agile policymaking. It advocates for a unified approach, where financial institutions, regulatory bodies, and cybersecurity firms work in tandem to ensure the security and trustworthiness of the financial sectors in both nations. In essence, this research provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of cybersecurity in the banking sectors of the U.S. and Nigeria, offering insights and recommendations for fortifying defenses and ensuring financial stability in the digital age.
HAZARD EVALUATION INDEX AND WATER QUALITY INDEX ASSESSMENT OF GROUNDWATER AROUND IKWE ONA REFINERY AND SURROUNDING ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Nwankwoala H.O , Oyegun V. , Okujagu C.D. , Akudo E.O. , Koate D.B.B.
Published: January 2024

This study was aimed at assessing the groundwater Water Quality Index (WQI) and Hazard Evaluation Index (HEI) around Ikwe Ona Refinery and its environs. Fourty-five water samples were collected from 15 water boreholes following strict sampling procedures and analyzed in the laboratory using the Atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). Human Health risk was determined by calculating the average daily dosage (ADD), hazard quotient (HQ), and hazard index (HI) respectively. The HEI of toxic metals and the WQI were calculated. Arsenic had the least ADD value (0.114 μg/l) followed by aluminum (1.429 μg/l). However, iron (Fe) recorded the highest ADD value (6.80 μg/l) followed by copper (Cu) (5.114 μg/l) then lead (Pb)( 5086 μg/l) respectively. The HQ for the selected toxic metals in the groundwater samples ranged from 9.71E-03 for Total Iron (Fe) to 5.37E+00 Cadmium (Cd). The HI was calculated to be 9.38E+00 while the mean values of HEI were calculated to be 55.77. The results of WQI from the different sampling stations varied from 38.53 (station 6) to 62.14 (station 13), with 14 out of 15 sampling points having a good water quality. The WQI result is in contrast to the HEI results indicating high contamination by toxic metals. This means that in terms of WQI, the 15 boreholes sampled had good water quality concerning WHO standards for agricultural and other household uses except for drinking and other critical industrial uses, except it is treated for the high HEI contamination by toxic metals such as Cadmium, Lead, Manganese, and Aluminum.
EFFECT OF ABATTOIR WASTE ON THE PHYSICO-CHEMICAL AND FAECAL COLIFORM LOAD OF SURFACE AND UNDERGROUND WATER BODIES IN UGHELLI, DELTA STATE
Authors: G, Uzougbo Chinedum , N, Onyebuchi Chisom , O, Onukogu Amanda , O, Scott Temiloluwa , A Olagunju Olusegun , Onunka Chiemela
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of effluent from the Ogheneweta abattoir on the physico-chemical and faecal coliform load of surface and underground water surrounding the abattoir. The study compared the water quality parameters with the guidelines provided by the Federal Ministry of Environment (FMENV) and the World Health Organization (WHO). The research involved the determination of various factors, including physico-chemical characteristics, microbial activity, and spatial and seasonal variations of water. Four sampling stations were selected for the study, with two focusing on groundwater impact and the other two on surface water impact. Differences between the two types of stations were also analyzed. Field sampling was conducted over a nine-month period, and water quality parameters such as temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, biochemical oxygen demand, and faecal coliform load were measured. Standard methods and instruments were utilized for sample collection and analysis, following established water analysis procedures. Statistical analysis was performed using a paired sample T-test (P<0.05). The results indicated that water temperature ranged from 25.56oC to 27.78oC, pH from 6.52 to 7.11, total dissolved solids (TDS) from 10.67mg/l to 210.78mg/l, electrical conductivity (EC) from 20.95mg/l to 426.05mg/l, dissolved oxygen (DO) from 4.17mg/l to 4.72mg/l, turbidity from 1.95mg/l to 9.67mg/l, and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) from 1.33mg/l to 1.74mg/l. Faecal coliform counts in underground and surface water samples ranged from 2.00 to 2.22MPN/100L and 2.67 to 7.33MPN/100L, respectively. The study findings revealed that the abattoir activities had a negative impact on the quality of both surface and underground water within the Ogheneweta abattoir area. While most physico-chemical and microbial parameters adhered to FMENV and WHO guidelines, the concentrations of turbidity in surface water and faecal coliform in both surface and underground water exceeded the acceptable limits. Moreover, the study showed distinct seasonal variations in physico-chemical parameters, with higher values recorded for pH, TDS, and turbidity during the rainy season, and lower values observed for conductivity. Based on the results, it is recommended that a groundwater monitoring program be implemented to assess the water quality status of wells near abattoirs, ensuring the protection of local residents’ health. Prompt intervention measures, including the establishment of effluent treatment facilities, are essential for effective waste management at abattoirs in Ughelli.
ASSESSMENT IMPACT OF SOLID WASTEWATER ON GROUNDWATER SAMPLES IN GANFOUDA AREA LOCATED IN BENGHAZI CITY
Authors: Zew Imam Nasser , Alziani Aisha , Rahman Nasser Abdo al , Hashemi Mohammed , Awad Mohammed
Published: January 2024

Groundwater is an essential component for most people in the world. It meets the drinking water needs of more than fifty percent of the world’s population. Unfortunately, groundwater can become contaminated. This occurs in cases where some man-made solid waste or several heavy metals such as nitrate, cadmium, chromium, lead, and mercury come into contact with underground water. This paper aims to evaluate the quantity of groundwater contamination in the Ganfouda area, west of the city of Benghazi, where some samples of water were collected from eight from several underground wells in the Ganfouda area. The results of this work showed high concentrations of dissolved solids, Sodium ion, Cadmium, lead and Bacteria Leachate in all collected samples. Through the results of the study that indicated groundwater contamination in the selected areas, we urge local authorities to monitor the quality and content of groundwater in landfills in the Ganfouda area in particular and in cities with high population density in general and to monitor water quality periodically.
BIO-AEROSOLS AND THEIR VIRULENCE FACTORS IN EDONWHII BEACH ATMOSPHERE, EASTERN OBOLO LGA, NIGERIA
Authors: Ambrose Idongesit Sunday , Udoh Dora , Abraham Nsikak , Ekong Ubong , K. Chukwu Uzochukwu , E. Ukpong Stephen
Published: January 2024

Standard microbiological techniques were used to evaluate bio-aerosols and associated virulence factors in the Edonwhii Beach Atmosphere in Eastern Obolo LGA, Nigeria. The microbial components of the beach atmosphere were evaluated using Settle Plate and Metagenomics methods. All the culturable bacteria but Escherischia coli, elaborated virulence factor(s), indicating potential to cause disease. At the molecular level, pathogenic genes fliC and hlyA that code for flagellin C and hemolysin A virulence factors were detected. Also detected were strains of Fusarium verticilliodes, Candida krusei, Candida albicans, Trichophytosporon sp and Cladosporium sp and are capable of causing keratitis or other dermal infections in human. High concentrations of microbial pollutants in Edonwhii beach atmosphere are a clear evidence of air pollution which can adversely impact on human health. As a result, continual monitoring of air quality, as well as devising and developing instruments to identify contaminants, is advised. Open defecation near the beach should be avoided, and overall environmental cleanliness should be maintained.
CONCEPT OF CHANNEL PLANFORMS CHANGES ON POTENTIAL RIVER FLOODING
Authors: E.S. Okonofua , C.N. Emeribe , C.L. Dewingong , A.W Butu
Published: January 2024

This study investigated the effect of channel planforms changes on potential river flooding in Kaduna state (River Kaduna as case study); with the aim to ascertain the effects of river channel planform on its potential flooding and put measures in place to advert the environmental menace. Topographic maps covering the entire course of the river and the characteristics of the river to be studied were obtained from the federal ministry of survey. The reliability of satellite images was verified by ground measurements using a 30m Surveyor’s tape on four bridges that cross River Kaduna. The measurements obtained were compared with correspondent measurements on the satellite image and found that the ground measurements and the measurements on both SPOT and Sentinel images were close. Three reaches (Meander 1, 2, 3; Straight reach 1, 2, 3 and Braided reach 1, 2, 3) were selected for this study. Variations measured along the river were changes in channel width, changes in sinuosity index, changes in braiding index channel lateral migration and changes in channel length from 1962 to 2017. The results showed a reduction in the channels width in all the reaches from average of 190m in 1962 to 74m in 2017; the sinuosity index was low in the duration considered (average of 1,15) while the braiding index value had a mean of 0.55. Channel migration also reduced from an average of 82m in 1962 to 53m in 2017 while the river reduced by 12% within this same period. The propensity of river flooding in the study area is high hence there is the need to carry out channel improvement, early warning system and desiltation of the river in order to eliminate the potential danger.
MODELLING URBAN SPRAWL OF THE GREATER PORT HARCOURT CITY USING REMOTE SENSING AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM TECHNIQUES
Authors: Onwuzuligbo Chukwubueze , Okeke Uzoma Chinenye , Udochukwu Onah Emmanuel , Effiom Iyam Ubi , Kikpoye John-Uri
Published: January 2024

In recent decades, urban sprawl has been viewed as one of the most pressing issues that cities over all the world in developing countries are batting with. It is often associated mostly with rural-urban migration and rising birth rates, where development is given precedence over urban planning. The study focuses on the urban sprawl of the greater Port Harcourt city. The greater Port Harcourt city is expanding at an unprecedented rate, with no adequate planning or statistical record. The study intends to address this issue by building models using remote sensing and geographic information system (GIS) tools in order to analyze urban sprawl in the Greater Port Harcourt city. To achieve this set of objectives, three sets of Landsat sensors, which were captured at different time intervals (1986, 2006, and 2021), were used to monitor urban sprawl in the study area. The Geographic Positioning System (GPS) was used during the field visit to collect the ground control points of some locations within the city. The National Population Commission (NPC) data was also employed to acquire the demographic statistics. The result of the study shows that the built-up area had expanded from 47.35 km2 (10.76%) in 1986 to 71.05 km2 (16.14%) in 2000 and to 284.68 km2 (64.68%) in 2021. This expansion in built-up area generates a decline in wetland, bare land, and forest land from 112.296 km2 (25.51%), 61.369 km2 (13.94%), and 160.152 km2 (36.39%) in 1986 to 72.468 km2 (16.47%), 86.486 km2 (19.65%), and 136.853 km2 (31.09%) in 2000, and to 42.810 km2 (9.73%), 10.858 km2 (13.94%), and 40.8384 km2 (9.28%) in 2021. The findings of the study are important because they give the government information on how quickly the study area is expanding, allowing it to adopt an appropriate planning strategy. In conclusion, the study demonstrate that remote sensing and GIS techniques can be utilized to successfully monitor the environment on a regular basis in order to investigate urban sprawl and inform better decision-making.
FLUID PREDICTION THROUGH LITHOLOGICAL ANALYSIS IN ‘M’ OIL FIELD NIGER DELTA: USING ROCK PHYSICS APPROACH
Authors: S.T. Ebong, , A.M. Ekanem, , N.J. George,
Published: January 2024

3D Lithology and reservoir fluid studies based on conventional interpretation approach, such as low Vp/Vs values indicating gas presence have been used to discriminate hydrocarbon fluids. This work was provoked by the emerging trends of noticeable uncertainties leading to drilling of dry wells in the study area. Confirming the physical indicators of hydrocarbon in the reservoirs through the employed method is worthwhile. Well log data of M oil field was investigated with the aim of identifying reservoir rocks through qualitative and quantitative interpretations of subsurface well log data of M oil field through rock properties cros-splots analysis in the select reservoir in the field (M-5000) and to derive elastic rock attributes such as Lame’s parameter terms (λρ and μρ), Vp/Vs, P-Impedance and S-Impedance from available petrophysical data. Rock attributes derived from well logs were combined to produce three major forms of crossplots, which described and characterized the reservoir in terms of fluid and lithology present. The combinations were: VP/VS versus IP, μρ against λρ and IP versus IS. These rock parameters were analyzed in cross-plots space and used to determine which of them constitutes better indicators of pore fluids and lithology. The M- oil field cross-plot analysis indicate the lowest values of VP/VS (2.05-2.40); IP (5600-6300 (m/s*(g/cc)), λρ (16-20 (GPa*g/cc)), and μρ (4-9.5 (GPa*g/cc)). However, the low values of VP/VS, IP, λρ, and μρ, perhaps IS corresponds to hydrocarbon (Gas) saturation within the M- oil field.
FREQUENCY ANALYSIS OF ANNUAL AND MAXIMUM DAILY RAINFALL IN HA’IL AREA USING PROBABILITY DISTRIBUTION MODELS
Authors: Bourouba Mohammed Foudil , Alkhanani Mustfa Faisal , Lafouza Oumar Loni
Published: January 2024

This study uses the Frequency analysis of the maximum daily and annual rainfall recorded during the period 1976-2020 at eight rain-measuring stations in the Ha’il region: Jubbah (106H-196), Baqa’a (103H-193), Simirah (105H-793), Uqlah Ibn Jibrin (208H-508) and Faydat Ibn Suwaylim (108H-198), Al Ha’it (111H-797), Al Ghazalah (215H-812) and Ha’il (101H-191), currently supervised by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA). These stations were selected due to their locations in the Hail region, which is in great urban development causing an increase in demand for water resources to meet the growing population in urban centers. This paper compares four probability distributions (Normal, Log Normal, Gumbel and Exponential) using the rainfall data recorded in eight rain stations located in Ha’il area. Sets of data cover a period of about 45 years. Therefore, this study aims to estimate the maximum daily and annual rainfall by applying 4-four probability distributions, which are the Normal, the Log-Normal, the Exponential, and the Extreme Values-type 1, using the (Chow) model estimation. Results showed that Gumbel (EV 1) distribution has the least critical values in the tests. Hence, it is considered the best fit distribution for annual rainfall in Simirah and Baq’a. Furthermore, based on the results, it is evident that the exponential distribution is the best in Al Ha’it, Faydat Ibn Suwaylim, Al Ghazalah, Ha’il, and Jubbah. Whilst, the log normal distribution is the best in Al Uqlat. The results also showed that Gumbel (EV 1) distribution has the least critical values in the tests. Thus, it is regarded as the best-fit distribution for the maximum daily rainfall in Simirah and Ha’il, and the normal distribution is considered the best for the rest of the rain stations.
HYDROGEOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF WATER IN THE AYANFURI AREA: IMPLICATIONS FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION AND IRRIGATION
Authors: Anthony Ewusi , Kodzo Tetteh Samuel Edem , Kafui Klu Albert , Seidu Jamel
Published: January 2024

The study of groundwater and surface water in the Ayanfuri area of the Central Region of Ghana has been carried out using hydrochemical analysis and geochemical modelling to determine its suitability for human consumption and irrigation purposes. A total of 77 samples were collected from community boreholes, observation boreholes, Tailing Storage Facility (TSF) boreholes, and streams and analyzed for geochemical parameters. Sodium is the dominant cation for all the sampling sites except for TSF boreholes which are calcium-dominated. Also, the dominant anion is bicarbonate for all sampling sites, except for streams that are sulphate-dominated. The hydrochemical facies in the sampling sites are Na-Mg-HCO3 (54.55%), Na-Mg-HCO3-Cl (23.08%), Na-Mg-HCO3 (22.22%), Na-Mg-HCO3-Cl (22.86%) representing community boreholes, observation boreholes, TSF borehole, and streams, respectively. Water-rock interaction, atmospheric precipitation patterns, ion exchange reactions, and breath dissolution/erosion of plagioclase feldspars serve as the mechanisms influencing the chemical composition of the various water sampling sites. The geochemical modelling reveals the signatures of calcite, dolomite, and gypsum as the main mineral phases. From the water quality guidelines of WHO and WQI classifications, the water is suitable for consumption purposes. Also, the results of the sodium adsorption ratio, sodium percentage, and magnesium hazard indicate that the water in the study area is suitable for irrigation purposes.
ASSESSMENT OF RESERVOIR PERFORMANCE IN THE CZ FIELD, NIGER DELTA BASIN, UTILIZING INTEGRATED FACIES AND PETROPHYSICAL ANALYSES FOR PREDICTIVE MODELING
Authors: Okwaraojimadu Chisom Kingsley , Akaolisa Casmir Zanders , Ebuka Agbasi Okechukwu
Published: January 2024

The “CZ” field refers to a promising hydrocarbon reservoir situated inside the Niger Delta region in Nigeria. The field is characterised by the presence of three distinct reservoir zones, namely the Agbada, Benin, and Akata formations. The research employed a multidisciplinary methodology to assess the hydrocarbon potential of the field, using techniques such as well log analysis, seismic interpretation, and petrophysical modelling. The findings of the research indicate that the “CZ” region has noteworthy potential for hydrocarbon resources. The aggregate assessed in-situ reserves of oil and gas amount to 1.2 billion barrels of oil equivalent (BOE) and 8.0 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of gas, correspondingly. The expected recovery factor for oil in the field is 20%, while for petrol it is predicted to be 80%. The study has identified a number of issues that want attention in order to advance the subject of “CZ.” The problems encompass several factors, namely the existence of water and gas within the reservoir, the intricate structural geology of the field, and the field’s distant geographical position. Notwithstanding these obstacles, the “CZ” sector exhibits the capacity to emerge as a significant hydrocarbon producer. The research offers a significant foundation for subsequent assessment and advancement of the discipline.
"The raging fury of Edwardian ornamentation" meets "a virtual frenzy of stylism": New Zealand architecture in 1900s
Authors: McCarthy Christine
Published: January 2024

Lew Martin's poetic turn, writing that: "[t]he raging fury of Edwardian ornamentation and enrichment fairly flickers in the sun," is a rare moment in New Zealand's too frequently prosaic architectural historical lexicon, but there is perhaps something in the stylistic frenzy of the early 1900s that results in the pleasure of architectural description, and adjectives of transition and movement. In their description of "Gingerbread" George Troup's 1906 Dunedin Railway Station, Stacpoole and Beaven asserted that the rich, boldness of the architecture and its physical illusion of grandness "is a case where the motor car, as a means of approach, is a poor substitute for horse and carriage." As McLean muses: "Even today it still exudes Edwardian pride in the iron horse." The decade's progression in rail - with the completion of the North Island's main trunk line in 1908, and Richard Pearce patenting his design for a flying machine in 1906,4 additionally were harbingers of a century of new geospatial possibilities. The century's end amidst the euphoria of virtual reality which continues to excite (some) seems to have provided the evidence that this is a legitimate characterisation of its nascent decade.
Māori Girl with a Typewriter, 1906
Authors: Wood Peter
Published: January 2024

This paper takes its title from a photograph held by the Alexander Turnbull Library. Recorded by Stefano Webb Photographic Studio of Christchurch, it is a studio study that falls somewhere between being a portrait, commercial illustration or candid record. The subject for the photograph - as the name reveals - is a young Māori woman sitting in front of a typewriter. Her fingertips touch the keys of the machine but her relationship to this quintessential object of the "modern" office-place is juxtaposed against surfaces that are distinctly indigenous: the woman wears a feather cloak and the typewriter is placed on another flax one. In turn this display is situated in a generic office environment. In totality the photographic is thematically and pictorially enigmatic, and we might reasonably wonder what purpose it served? In this work I conduct a comprehensive visual analysis and suggest that there may not be one main motivation behind it but a series of experiments, both conscious and unconscious to the photographer, that govern the creation and interpretation of this photograph. Central to my reading is the presence of an architectural mise-en-scene that organizes and activates the pictorial mystery, and so, while this does not depict an heroic architectural object it nonetheless depends upon an appreciation of how architecture might organise a photographic record.
A Comprehensive Measurement Study Analyzing Cross-Border Logistics in Harbin New District
Authors: Wang Yan , Shi Xian-Ping
Published: January 2024

The business environment is an important index for measuring the international competitiveness of a country or region. Improving the business environment not only helps the logistics industry reduce costs and increase efficiency but also promotes the transformation and upgrading of the logistics sector. This paper focuses on the business environment of cross-border logistics enterprises in Harbin New District as the research object. It constructs the business environment index system of logistics enterprises in Harbin New District through empirical research using the subjective weighting method. The research data are then analyzed to identify the shortcomings in optimizing the business environment of cross-border logistics in Harbin New District. The paper proposes countermeasures and suggestions, aiming to provide a decision-making reference for promoting the high-quality development and all-round revitalization of Harbin New District.