bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EXPLORING THE ROLE OF ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE IN RISK MANAGEMENT PRACTICES: A QUALITATIVE STUDY OF SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SMEs) IN EMERGING ECONOMIES
Authors: J. ALABDULHADI AFRAH
Published: December 2024

This paper aims to investigate the effects of organisational culture on risk management in emerging market SMEs, which are often exposed to external risks, including political risk, economic risk, and supply chain risk. Employing a qualitative research method, the study is underpinned by case studies and semi-structured interviews with SME leaders to establish the link between organizational culture and risk management. The study also revealed that leadership style, communication openness and organizational flexibility are the most important factors that influence the perception, assessment, management and response of SMEs to risks. Autonomous, innovative and proactive, entrepreneurial leadership is more effective than a hierarchical one because the latter is more risk-averse and reactive in decision-making. The study also shows that risk communication and cooperation are essential for improving risk perception across the organization and that flexibility is critical for SMEs to act quickly to external forces. This research is relevant to the existing knowledge by providing a view of the general problems of SMEs in emerging economies. Based on the findings, the following recommendations can be made to SME managers: First, managers should engage in proactive leadership; second, communication should be made more open; and third, adaptability should be integrated into the organisational culture. Despite the restriction of the study to specific geographical location and small sample size the study provides the basis for further research on culture and risk management in varied contexts.
INVESTIGATING THE FACTORS AFFECTING CUSTOMER LOYALTY
Authors: KESHAVARZ YOUSEF , ANSARI ZEINAB , ARANDI AMIN
Published: December 2024

Since the cost of acquiring a new customer is between 5 to 10 times more than retaining an existing customer, and the loss of a customer is equivalent to losing the potential of 100 other customers, customer loyalty is considered a crucial and vital factor for the success, continuity, and profitability of an organization. Organizations and institutions that succeed in increasing customer loyalty will have a significant competitive advantage due to the loyalty of their customers. In this research, all influential variables on loyalty that have been discussed in studies over the past 53 years (1970 to 2023) have been presented. Despite numerous studies conducted over the past 53 years regarding loyalty in various industries worldwide, there is no comprehensive article that consolidates all these research findings and relevant variables. Therefore, this article aims to provide a theoretical framework in this area by presenting relevant loyalty theories and research conducted in reputable international journals. The goal is not only to contribute to the research literature by synthesizing relevant studies but also to offer a scientific framework in the field of loyalty research for researchers.
EVALUATING THE ROLE OF HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AND COMMUNICATION STRATEGIES IN REDUCING SAFETY RISKS AND HUMAN ERRORS DURING ORGANIZATIONAL DOWNSIZING
Authors: IKECHUKWU PALMER ILABOR
Published: December 2024

Organizational downsizing, especially in high-risk industries, poses significant challenges to workplace safety, often increasing the incidence of human errors and safety risks due to decreased workforce morale, heightened stress, and reduced resources. This study evaluates the role of Human Resource Management (HRM) and targeted communication strategies in mitigating these risks, aiming to uncover effective practices that maintain safety standards and minimize human errors during workforce reductions in a case study of Oil and Gas (O&G. By analyzing HRM approaches in high-risk industries such as oil and gas, this research examines the impact of communication strategies on employee engagement, safety compliance, and overall morale during downsizing. Additionally, it investigates the comparative effectiveness of downsizing alternatives-including re-engineering, rightsizing, and restructuring on employee retention and safety outcomes. The study also explores automation’s potential as an alternative to layoffs, assessing its effects on both safety performance and employee retention. Findings from this research aim to provide HRM professionals and organizational leaders with actionable insights into designing and implementing downsizing strategies that prioritize health, safety, and morale. By integrating psychosocial risk management and strategic communication within HRM practices, organizations can better navigate the complexities of downsizing while safeguarding employee well-being and minimizing workplace incidents. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of sustainable downsizing strategies that balance economic demands with employee health and safety considerations.
RESEARCH ON THE MECHANISM CONSTRUCTION AND PRACTICAL STRATEGIES FOR NORMAL UNIVERSITIES TO PROMOTE THE HIGH-QUALITY DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL BASIC EDUCATION
Authors: MING PI XIAO , PING TONG ZHONG , JINGYI LU , ZHEN TU LIN
Published: December 2024

This research deeply analyzes the relationship between normal universities and rural basic education, and focuses on constructing mechanisms such as educational resource sharing, teacher training and exchange, promotion of educational informatization, and scientific research support and cooperation. At the same time, closely combining the actual needs of the development of rural basic education, it proposes practical strategies for normal universities to help its high-quality development. The purpose is to provide a solid theoretical basis and practical guidance for normal universities to better serve rural basic education, and then promote the high-quality development of rural basic education.
STATISTICAL MODELING OF WOMEN COUNT AND QUARRYMEN'S WAGE IN BURUNDI
Authors: NTIRAMPEBA DIDACE , NGENDAKUMANA OSUALD , BARAHINDUKA ETIENNE , DIEU NKURUNZIZA JEAN DE , HABONIMANA FLEURY
Published: December 2024

Introduction For many years, the quarries have begun to be extracted in the world [1]. Humans have used stone for building, whether it was for monuments, religious buildings or houses [2]. In Burundi, quarrying began even before the era of colonization [3]. Until this time, the quarries are still being mined. From 2016, Burundian government has created an office called Burundian Office of Mine and Quarries (Acronym OBM) whose target was to control the quarries' extraction and till this time it's still working. However, eventhougth the quarrying work seems to be underestimated, it feeds a portion of Burundian population [4]. Indeed, this investigation have been conducted in order to compare the living standard of the artisans in quarrying, realize what proportion of women working in quarries, its causes and at the end evaluate the quarries' wage.
AUDIT QUALITY AND RETURN ON ASSETS IN LISTED INSURANCE COMPANIES IN NIGERIA
Authors: FLORENCE IDOWU AFOLASADE , FADEKEMI OMOGBONJUBOLANLE ABIODUN-AFOLABI , ABIMBOLA ESO AYOOLA , EMMANUEL OYEDOKUN, GODWIN
Published: December 2024

Financial performance of any firm is a function of continuous improvement, while audit quality is essential in influencing financial performance by ensuring the accuracy and reliability of financial reports key factors for stakeholders' decision-making and corporate transparency. In Nigeria’s insurance sector, financial performance, particularly Return on Assets (ROA), serves as a fundamental indicator of success. This study examines the impact of audit quality on the financial performance of listed insurance companies, focusing on audit fees, audit independence, and audit firm size. Using an ex-post facto research design, secondary data was collected from 22 listed insurance firms between 2017 and 2021. Descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis were employed to analyze the relationship between audit quality and ROA. The results reveal that audit fees have a significant positive effect on ROA (β = 3.71, p < 0.05; F = 4.37, p < 0.05), while audit independence also positively influences ROA, though less strongly (β = 4.89, p < 0.05; F = 0.67, p < 0.05). In contrast, audit firm size has a significant negative impact on ROA (β = -0.24, p < 0.05; F = 11.90, p < 0.05). The study’s models were validated by Durbin-Watson statistics, indicating minimal autocorrelation. These findings underscore the importance of audit quality, particularly audit fees and independence, in enhancing financial performance, while larger audit firms may hinder it. The study offers key insights for auditors, regulators, and stakeholders focused on improving financial transparency and the overall performance of insurance companies.
VIDEO-ASSISTED TEACHING AND STUDENTS’ ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE
Authors: PANOLINO, MAT CHERYL G. , M. AMBAYON CRISTOBAL
Published: December 2024

This study was geared towards the development and validation of Video-assisted Teaching in English for Academic and Professional Purposes subject as supplemental instructional material to enhance students’ academic performance. It was conducted to Grade 11 Technical Vocational Livelihood students at Bambad National High School, Isulan, and Sultan Kudarat. The researcher used an experimental research design to assess the quality of the innovative strategy in teaching and the students’ academic performance in terms of their assessment scores. Descriptive-evaluative research design was also used to determine the extent of quality of the educational videos on its content, relevance and acceptability. Findings revealed that the quality of the Educational Videos was rated excellent and has passed the qualities expected by the evaluators. Whereas, academic performance of the control and experimental groups in the pre-test were both rated fairly satisfactory which means that they are comparatively at the same level of academic performance before the initial conduct of the study. In the post test result, the academic performance of the control group was rated very satisfactory and the experimental group was rated excellent. This implies that administering the instructional video material with the integration of visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning style enhanced the quality of the videos and significantly contributed to the higher post-test results of the experimental group. Thus, it can be claimed that developed educational videos may complement the scantiness of learning materials in English for Academic and Professional Purposes subjects.
Crossing Cultural and Linguistic Boundaries: An Innovative Transnational Teacher Residency Model for Rural Schools
Authors: Wertzberger Eileen , Goodson Todd
Published: December 2024

Throughout the United States, rural communities have employed innovative strategies to tackle the escalating shortage of teachers. Studies indicate that various models, including grow-your-own initiatives and financial incentives, enable rural areas to optimize their resources to address the shortfall. Despite these endeavors, the demand for teachers persists. Moreover, with the increasing racial and ethnic diversity in rural demographics, there is a growing need for culturally and linguistically diverse teachers. This article explores a teacher preparation program’s effort in devising a residency model for modern language teaching, aiming to connect international teacher candidates with rural communities across the state.
“Hidden Gems” and “Rough Mannerisms”: Examining Preservice Teachers’ Discourses of Place and Rurality
Authors: Reagan Emilie , Coppinger Emilie , Mascio Bryan , Tompkins Allie , Fornauf Beth
Published: December 2024

While research has examined preservice teachers' perceptions toward rural schools, there is limited research on how they navigate their own discourses of rural communities, particularly for preservice teachers embedded in the rural communities in which they teach. In this exploratory qualitative study, we examine the discourses of place and rurality of four preservice teachers (residents) while enrolled in a rural teacher residency program in the northeastern United States. Findings suggest that rural residents' discourses oscillated between place "as it is" and place as it "ought to be" as they identified strengths and challenges of generalized and specific rural communities. Additionally, findings suggest that preservice teachers engaged with and resisted idyllic and deficit discourses of place and rurality, drawing on their experiences living in and engaging with the unique contexts of their rural communities. We offer implications of this work for our responsibility as teacher educators who prepare teachers for schools and the rural contexts in which they will teach.
Complicaciones Maternas Durante el Parto y Puerperio en la Unidad de Primer Nivel de Atención
Authors: Galicia Sánchez Alma Lorena , Flores Zamora Misael , Molina Camarillo Veronica
Published: December 2024

Las complicaciones que se generan en las embarazadas, pueden afectar la salud de la madre y/o del feto. Objetivo: Evaluar las complicaciones maternas durante el parto y puerperio en la UMF/H No. 24 del IMSS. Material y métodos: Estudio, retrospectivo, realizado en primer nivel de atención. Se evaluaron las complicaciones durante el parto y puerperio, haciendo la revisión de 114 expedientes en el periodo de enero del 2020 a diciembre del 2021.Se realizó estadística descriptiva Resultados: La media de edad fue de 30.46 con una Desviación Estándar de ± 1.107, dentro de las complicaciones principales son, infección del tracto urinario en 28.9%, anemia en 24.6% y cervicovaginitis en 9.6%. Conclusión: Las complicaciones que se presentaron durante el parto y puerperio, que afectan, son la Infección de Tracto Urinario, Anemia y Cervicovaginitis.
Estrategias de Escritura Creativa para fomentar el Pensamiento Crítico en Estudiantes de Secundaria
Authors: Zúñiga Paredes Nadia Cruskaya , Brito Morales Luz Magaly , Bustamante Fajardo Diana Marlene
Published: December 2024

El estudio titulado "Relación entre la escritura creativa y el pensamiento crítico en estudiantes de secundaria" analiza cómo la escritura creativa puede contribuir al fortalecimiento de las habilidades de pensamiento crítico en adolescentes en el nivel educativo secundario. La escritura creativa se define como una herramienta que estimula la creatividad y la expresión individual. Se considera que esta práctica contribuye al desarrollo de las habilidades cognitivas de los estudiantes al facilitar la organización de ideas, la reflexión sobre las mismas y la formulación de conclusiones personales. En el presente estudio se analizan los beneficios de incorporar la escritura creativa en el plan de estudios escolar, resaltando su capacidad para fomentar la reflexión, el análisis y el pensamiento crítico en los alumnos. Los estudiantes son motivados a cuestionar conceptos, plantear argumentos sólidos y explorar diversas perspectivas a través de actividades de escritura que incluyen la redacción de relatos, ensayos y narrativas. Estas habilidades son fundamentales no solo en el ámbito académico, sino también para el crecimiento personal y social de los individuos jóvenes. En el artículo se examina el impacto de la escritura creativa en la expresión de pensamientos de los estudiantes, destacando su potencial para fortalecer el razonamiento lógico y la habilidad argumentativa de manera significativa, según investigaciones previas. En el aula, se pueden identificar varios enfoques pedagógicos que incorporan la escritura creativa, como la escritura colaborativa y la utilización de tecnologías digitales. Estas estrategias no solo amplían las oportunidades de aprendizaje, sino que también promueven la colaboración entre los estudiantes. Los resultados de la investigación indican que el uso apropiado de la escritura creativa no solo potencia el desempeño académico de los estudiantes, sino que también estimula su habilidad para el pensamiento crítico, lo cual incide positivamente en su desarrollo integral. En resumen, el presente estudio destaca la relevancia de incorporar tácticas de escritura creativa en el ámbito educativo secundario como un método eficaz para fomentar el pensamiento crítico en el alumnado.
Mobile Learning Readiness Among Malaysian Students at Higher Education in Learning Mathematics
Authors: Ling Amy Mei Yin , Yop Kim Jeok , Lai Chai Yan
Published: December 2024

Mobile learning offers many advantages for students. It provides easy access to learning materials, increases student engagement, encourages collaboration, and allows for more personalized learning. The accessibility of mobile devices does not ensure that students will use m-learning in education, especially in mathematics. One way mathematics has been studied is through traditional classroom sessions where a teacher teaches students one-to-one. This approach is time-consuming and can be difficult for some students to follow. Therefore, this study’s objective is to determine the readiness of students in higher education to use mobile learning in learning mathematics. In total, 128 students voluntarily participated in this study. The survey was divided into three sections: section A is for personal information, section B is for mobile devices, and part C is for readiness to use mobile learning. The result showed students were ready, willing, and welcome to use mobile devices and technology to support their learning, but it is important to note that most of the scores were average. To further enhance students' engagement and motivation towards m-learning, addressing any potential barriers or challenges hindering their readiness may be helpful. At the end of this study will contribute to the body of knowledge on mobile learning readiness and promote the use of mobile technology in education.
An FsQCA and NCA Analysis on the Drivers and Comprehensive Impact Analysis of the Implementation of Digital Twins
Authors: Khoo Terh Jing , Wang Jiao , Esa Muneera , Sun Jiachen
Published: December 2024

The adoption of digital technology is one of the key processes in the digital transformation of China's construction industry. As a representative digital technology in the digital transformation process of Construction 4.0, digital twin technology has attracted widespread attention in various fields, and its practical application is also growing rapidly. However, its implementation in the construction industry (CI) still faces major challenges. Although previous studies have made significant progress in understanding the drivers and barriers to the implementation of digital twins (DTs) in the CI, these studies have neglected to explore the comprehensive impact of various factors, and the configuration relationship between them remains unclear. This study uses a quantitative method to conduct a questionnaire survey to obtain 33 case sample data. Necessary condition analysis (NCA) and fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (FsQCA) methods are used for antecedent configuration analysis. The results show that: (1) The successful deployment of DTs in the CI does not depend on any single determinant, but is the adaptive result of the synergistic effect of multiple antecedent variables; (2) Six critical factors affecting the implementation of DTs in China's CI are identified, which can be summarized into four different causal paths or configurations, which are conducive to the implementation of DTs in China's CI. This study further explores and clarifies the comprehensive impact of antecedent variables on the implementation of DTs in China's CI provides a reference for the practice of digital transformation in the CI.
Сборник материалов Всероссийской научно-практической конференции «Актуальные вопросы физиологической адаптации человека на Севере»
Authors: Луговая Елена Александровна , Аверьянова Инесса Владиславовна , Барбарук Юрий Владимирович , Бартош Татьяна Петровна , Солонин Юрий Григорьевич , Калинина Наталья Михайловна
Published: December 2024

В сборник вошли материалы Всероссийской научно-практической конференции «Актуальные вопросы физиологической адаптации человека на Севере», которая проходила с 7 по 11 октября 2024 года в г. Магадане. Участниками Конференции стали более 50 человек из 14 городов России, от Заполярья до Сибири и Крайнего Севера страны, расположенных в регионах арктического и субарктического поясов. Гостями города Магадана — организатора Конференции — стали профессора РАН, доктора медицины и биологии, кандидаты медицинских и биологических наук, аспиранты вузов. Города-участники: Москва, Санкт-Петербург, Мурманск, Архангельск, Петрозаводск, Сыктывкар, Ханты-Мансийск, Челябинск, Барнаул, Якутск, Иркутск, Владивосток, Анапа. Представлены результаты исследований коллег из Чехии и Италии. Платформа Конференции стала уникальной возможностью обменяться опытом и результатами научных исследований по таким социально важным направлениям, как «Репродуктивное здоровье», «Колымское долголетие», «Психологическая помощь населению». Тезисы докладов Конференции рекомендованы к публикации в электронном сборнике.
TEACHER UNDERSTANDING IN DATA COLLECTION TECHNIQUES FOR COUNSELING GUIDANCE IN LOWER CLASS SDN 2 TAKERANKLATING
Authors: Qibtiyah Mar'atul , Afaf Niswatin Nawal , Widyanti Zurifah Nur , Mudayan Arfian
Published: December 2024

Analysis of teacher understanding in collecting guidance and counseling data in elementary schools is very important for educators in knowing the character and needs of students. This research aims to determine the level of understanding of elementary school teachers in data collection techniques for guidance and counseling in lower grades. This research uses descriptive qualitative methods. The instruments in the research used teacher interview techniques and teacher observation, while the subject was a lower grade elementary school teacher. The results of this research are (1) knowing the types of data in counseling guidance in elementary schools, (2) teachers conducting an analysis of student needs in lower grades, (3) showing that the level of understanding of elementary school teachers regarding techniques for collecting counseling guidance data in the classroom low is good enough. Based on the results of this research, elementary school teachers are able to understand the types of counseling guidance data and data collection techniques. The suggestions from this research are that the research object is expected to be expanded and not limited to just one source.
PERMAINAN TRADISIONAL GIM-GIMAN UNTUK PENGUATAN KARAKTER SISWA SEKOLAH DASAR
Authors: Setiawan Heri , Aji Styo Mahendra Wasita
Published: December 2024

The aim of writing this article is to analyze the various character values contained in game games. Therefore, in this paper we discuss the potential for implementing games to strengthen the character values of elementary school students. The method for writing this article uses a literature review. Various literature related to the topic of discussion, namely character education, traditional games, and various character values in traditional games. This step was carried out to review the curriculum, legal basis, and research literature from various open access journal sources such as Sinta, ERIC, Google Scholar and then analyzed and synthesized so that a study could be taken that formulated various potential character values in traditional games. The analysis results show that, as a traditional game, games also have various character values. The following describes some of the values contained in games, namely: cooperation, leadership, mutual respect, sportsmanship, responsibility, discipline (obeying the rules), economic values, and togetherness.
THE EFFECT OF RECOGNIZING STUDENTS' LEARNING STYLES TO MINIMIZE DIFFICULTIES IN LEARNING
Authors: Devi Rista Apriliya , Liliyani Salsabila
Published: December 2024

This research is motivated by the lack of recognition and understanding of teachers, students, and parents regarding various types of student learning styles. In addition, this research also aims to provide knowledge about the effect of learning style recognition on learning achievement to teachers, students, and even parents. The research method used is a literature study in which the author examines various journals, books, articles, theses, and previous studies on the influence of learning styles and learning difficulties. Based on the results of this study, it can be concluded that the efforts that can be made by teachers, students, and parents in recognizing learning styles have a big influence on improving student achievement.
The efficacy of roof-based adaptations to reduce heat stress exposure in informal dwellings
Authors: Viljoen Ethan , Hugo Jan
Published: December 2024

While climate change represents a universal threat to the sustainable growth efforts globally, its impacts are not experienced equally with marginalised population groups, especially informal settlement residents, being highly exposed to its negative effects. Despite being widely acknowledged that the built environment is a major driver of inhabitants’ exposure to climate change-related hazards, limited research has been undertaken on developing heat stress adaptation measures for informal settlements in Southern Africa. Furthermore, Africa’s projected rapid urbanisation and limited adequate housing provision point to a significant growth of informal settlements, particularly within the Southern African context. The dearth of available information on household level climate change adaptation in informal settlements prompted this study to investigate the efficacy of roof-based adaptation strategies to lower heat stress exposure in informal dwellings in Tshwane, South Africa. As an explorative study with a quantitative focus, the study uses a digital simulation research design to assess the efficacy of four climate change adaptation strategies to lower heat stress exposure in two typical informal dwellings as case studies. While informal settlements have diverse building typologies, informal dwellings – frame structures cladded with steel sheeting without any thermal insulation – are widely used and highly vulnerable. In contrast to typical adaptation measures proposed for informal dwellings, the main findings highlight the benefit of high thermal mass coupled with shading strategies to lower thermal amplitudes and lower excessive heat stress exposure. Consequently, the article contributes to the current climate change adaptation discourse, in particular its application in informal settlements.
City beautification through corporate social responsibility landscape branding in enhancing urban landscape identity in Kisumu City, Kenya
Authors: Koyoo Edwin
Published: December 2024

City identity and branding have traditionally been shaped by iconic architecture, including monumental buildings and landmarks. However, recent studies have begun to explore city branding through corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, particularly from a landscape perspective. There is limited research, particularly in the Global South, examining the role of CSR in the enhancement of open green spaces and its contribution to shaping urban landscape identity. This study investigates CSR-driven beautification projects in Kisumu City, Kenya, where corporate-funded initiatives have sought to improve urban landscapes through the landscaping of road islands and roundabouts, alongside broader urban renewal efforts. The article aims to document the spatial attributes of these CSR projects; assess their current status in terms of cleanliness, safety, and maintenance, as well as identify the challenges faced in implementing CSR-driven beautification efforts. The aim of these projects is not only to promote the city’s unique urban identity, but also to enhance the corporate image through landscape branding. A qualitative research methodology is employed, involving field observations, GIS mapping, and photography, complemented by purposive interviews. The findings reveal not only diverse landscape designs, including water features and sculptures, but also highlight significant issues with upkeep, safety concerns from street urchins, and the overall deterioration of some sites. These results are valuable for policymakers in city governments and corporations involved in CSR projects, offering insights into how such initiatives can better contribute to urban landscape identity, city branding, and the sustainability of urban beautification efforts.
Alcohol and tobacco use by construction workers: A systematic literature review
Authors: Oladimeji Olubimbola , Hadded Assed
Published: December 2024

Achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3), which aims to ensure healthy lifestyles and promote well-being for all, is a critical focus within the context of construction health and safety, particularly for construction workers. A significant factor influencing the health and safety of construction workers is their consumption of alcohol and tobacco (A&T). This article presents a systematic review of the research on A&T use among construction workers, an analysis of key findings, research methodologies, and recommendations. A knowledge-mapping approach is applied to 108 articles sourced from the Web of Science (WOS), generating clusters of relevant keywords to illustrate the interrelationships between A&T usage and construction workers. The knowledge map reveals 40 distinct keyword distributions, organised into five clusters, highlighting the key connections between alcohol, tobacco, and construction workers. From an initial pool of 336 articles from WOS and Scopus, 26 were selected based on the PRISMA protocol for further analysis. A review of these 26 studies demonstrates a predominant use of mixed-methods and quantitative research approaches. The findings show the heightened vulnerability of construction workers to hazardous A&T consumption, its adverse health effects, and the urgent need for comprehensive interventions aimed at reducing or eliminating this risk.
Some implications of the condition of South Africa’s public sector fixed infrastructure
Authors: Wall Kevin
Published: December 2024

This third article in a planned series on the state of South Africa’s public sector fixed infrastructure examines the implications of its deteriorating condition. The first two articles focused on efforts to monitor infrastructure conditions and on studies of its state and findings. This review outlines the extent to which the poor condition of infrastructure negatively impacts on the economy and quality of life, providing specific examples from sectors such as land transport, electricity, water, and waste water, with agribusiness as a case study. The article discusses how the failures of institutions such as Eskom (including its neglect of capacity expansion), PRASA, Transnet, and municipal authorities have hindered economic growth and stifled improvements in citizens’ quality of life. Central to this analysis is the argument that the root cause is institutional breakdown: the failure of these institutions preceded the deterioration of infrastructure, and only through fundamental institutional reform can these challenges be addressed. The article concludes that institutional reform should be a primary focus in addressing South Africa’s infrastructure crisis.
“SNe Ia Twins for Life”: Toward a Precise Determination of H
0
Authors: Ruiz-Lapuente P. , González Hernández J. I.
Published: December 2024

Here we present an approach to the measurement of extragalactic distances using twin SNe Ia, taken from the early down to the nebular phase. The approach is purely empirical, although we can give a theoretical background on why the method is reliable. By studying those twins in galaxies where peculiar velocities are relatively unimportant, we can tackle the H
0 tension problem. Here we apply the method to the determination of the distances to NGC 7250 and NGC 2525, who hosted, respectively, SN 2013dy and SN 2018gv, twins of two different SNe Ia prototypes: SN 2013aa/SN 2017cbv and SN 2011fe. From the study of the SN 2013aa and SN 2017cbv twin pair, by comparing it with SN 2011fe and applying the difference between the SN 2013aa/2017cbv and the SN 2011fe class, we also find a good estimate of the distance to NGC 5643. We have just started to measure distances with the method for the samples in W.L Freedman et al. and A. G. Riess et al. There are differences in measured distances to the same galaxy using Cepheids or TRGBs. In this context of discrepancy, the “twins for life” method is very competitive because it can provide distance estimates with a modulus error of σ

μ
= 0.04 mag. Our findings called for a revision of the distances measured with Cepheids in A. G. Riess et al. (2022). NGC 7250 and NGC 2525 needed better measurements with Cepheids. We have noticed that the Cepheids-based distance obtained with the JWST in A. G. Riess et al. (2024a) for NGC 5643 is in good agreement with what we find, unlike their previous estimate in A. G. Riess et al. (2022). The Hubble tension can arise from the way in which the local SNe Ia sample is linked to the SNe Ia Hubble flow sample. A good calibration of SNe Ia in the local sample is needed and we have started to gather it. We also expect to apply the “twin” SNe Ia comparison from the local sample to that in galaxies with z >0.02–0.03 well into the Hubble flow to obtain a reliable value for H
0. Those distant SNe Ia can be observed with the ELT or the JWST.
High-precision Galaxy Clustering Predictions from Small-volume Hydrodynamical Simulations via Control Variates
Authors: Doytcheva Alexandra , Gerou Filomela V. , Lange Johannes U.
Published: December 2024

Cosmological simulations of galaxy formation are an invaluable tool for understanding galaxy formation and its impact on cosmological parameter inference from large-scale structures. However, their high computational cost is a significant obstacle for running simulations that probe cosmological volumes comparable to those analyzed by contemporary large-scale structure experiments. In this work, we explore the possibility of obtaining high-precision galaxy clustering predictions from small-volume hydrodynamical simulations such as MillenniumTNG and FLAMINGO via control variates. In this approach, the hydrodynamical full-physics simulation is paired with a matched low-resolution gravity-only simulation. By learning the galaxy–halo connection from the hydrodynamical simulation and applying it to the gravity-only counterpart, one obtains a galaxy population that closely mimics the one in the more expensive simulation. One can then construct an estimator of galaxy clustering that combines the clustering amplitudes in the small-volume hydrodynamical and gravity-only simulations with clustering amplitudes in a large-volume gravity-only simulation. Depending on the galaxy sample, clustering statistic, and scale, this galaxy clustering estimator can have an effective volume of up to around 100 times the volume of the original hydrodynamical simulation in the nonlinear regime. With this approach, we can construct galaxy clustering predictions from existing simulations that are precise enough for mock analyses of next-generation large-scale structure surveys such as the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument and the Legacy Survey of Space and Time.
Emergence of the Galaxy Morphology–Star Formation Activity–Clustercentric Radius Relations in Galaxy Clusters
Authors: Hong Sungwook E. , Park Changbom , Mishra Preetish K. , Kim Juhan , Gibson Brad K. , Kim Yonghwi , Few C. Gareth , Pichon Christophe , Shin Jihye , Lee Jaehyun
Published: December 2024

We investigate when and how the relations of galaxy morphology and star-forming activity with clustercentric radius become evident in galaxy clusters. We identify 162 galaxy clusters with total mass

M

tot

cl

>
5
×

10

13

M

⊙

at z = 0.625 in the Horizon Run 5 cosmological hydrodynamical simulation and study how the properties of the galaxies with stellar mass M
* > 5 × 109
M
⊙ near the cluster main progenitors have evolved in the past. Galaxies are classified into disk, spheroid, and irregular morphological types according to the asymmetry and Sérsic index of their stellar mass distribution. We also classify galaxies into active and passive ones depending on their specific star formation rate. We find that the morphology–clustercentric radius relation (MRR) emerges at z ≃ 1.8 as the fraction of spheroidal types exceeds 50% in the central region (d ≲ 0.1R
200). Galaxies outside the central region remain disk-dominated. Numerous encounters between galaxies in the central region seem to be responsible for the morphology transformation from disks to spheroids. We also find that the star formation activity–clustercentric radius relation emerges at an epoch different from that of MRR. At z ≃ 0.8, passive galaxies start to dominate the intermediate radius region (0.1 ≲ d/R
200 ≲ 0.3), and this “quenching region” grows inward and outward thereafter. The region dominated by early-type galaxies (spheroids and passive disks) first appears at the central region at z ≃ 1.8, expands rapidly to larger radii as the population of passive disks grows in the intermediate radii, and clusters are dominated by early types after z ≃ 0.8.
Zeeman Spectral Line Fitting
Authors: Hsu Jui-Teng , Jagannathan Preshanth
Published: December 2024

The Zeeman effect plays a pivotal role as an observational technique for directly assessing the magnitude of magnetic fields within star-forming regions. Over time, Zeeman effect analysis has primarily relied upon software tools such as the Astronomical Image Processing System and MIRIAD. These tools necessitate manual involvement in the analysis and line fitting processes. This study delves into two potential automated methodologies for Zeeman analysis: one grounded in a least squares framework and the other embracing the maximum-likelihood approach. Our investigation reveals that the utilization of Markov Chain Monte Carlo, anchored in the maximum-likelihood framework, results in improved spectral line fitting outcomes with more favorable residuals. Concluding our efforts, we have encapsulated the automated analysis procedure within a software package, called Zeeman_modelling, installable through pip, accompanied by a straightforward command-line interface.
Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation in the Treatment for Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia: Centre Experience
Authors: Pivkova-Veljanovska Aleksandra , Chadievski Lazar , Kocoski Bozidar , Cvetanoski Milche , Trajkova Sanja , Krstevska-Balkanov Svetlana , Ridova Nevenka , Stojanoska Simona , Ristevska Tara , Stojanoski Martin , Purde Merve , Trajkovska-Ancevska Zaklina , Panovska-Stavridis Irina
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND: Allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo SCT) is still the only curative option for transfusion depended on β-thalassemia major (TDT). In patients with good risk features it is reasonable to anticipate a greater than 90% chance of a successful transplant outcome. With better risk stratification and supportive care, the results of allo-SCT have been improved even in high risk patients who have significant iron overload related organ dysfunction. Choosing the optimal conditioning regimen before allo SCT, stem cell source and focusing on transfusion free survival, as well as graft versus host disease (GVHD) free survival is a challenge in providing the quality of life in the post-transplant period for this indication. The aim of this article is to present first experience in the treatment of TDT with allo SCT from matched related donor (MRD).
CASE PRESENTATION: We present a case of male patient diagnosed as thalassemia major (TM) at the age of 15 years referred at University Clinic for pediatric disease in Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia for treatment with allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo SCT) from matched related family donor (MRD). Patients experienced two allo SCT due to early graft rejection after the first transplantation. The conditioning was done with MAC regimens, busulfan based for the first transplant and treosulfan based for the second transplant.
CONCLUSION: Disease severity and the age of the patient has a crucial impact on transplant related mortality (TRM), event free survival (EFS) and the incidence of veno-oclusive liver disease as one of the main complications during SCT. More data is required on the etiology of frequent graft rejection in TDT studying the aspects of the graft and subsequent immune reconstitution that can improve the outcome of allo HSCT for thalassemia major.
First record of the tetrablemmid armoured spiders (Araneae, Tetrablemmidae) from Xizang, China, with description of a new species
Authors: Zhou Yang , Zhang Xiaoqing , Tong Yanfeng
Published: December 2024

The spider genus Choiroblemma Bourne, 1980 of the family Tetrablemmidae currently contains two species, C. bengalense Bourne, 1980 and C. rhinoxunum Bourne, 1980. Both species are known from West Bengal, India.

A new species of Choiroblemma is described from Xizang, China, Choiroblemma metok sp. nov. (♂♀). Morphological descriptions, photomicroscopy images of the new species and a distribution map of Choiroblemma species are given.
Developing a machine learning model for fast economic optimization of solar power plants using the hybrid method of firefly and genetic algorithms, case study: optimizing solar thermal collector in Calgary, Alberta
Authors: Omidkar Ali , Es'haghian Razieh , Song Hua
Published: December 2024

Due to the depletion of fossil fuels and environmental concerns, renewable energy has become increasingly popular. Even so, the economic competitiveness and cost of energy in renewable systems remain a challenge. Optimization of renewable energy systems from an economic standpoint is important not only from the point of view of researchers but also industry owners, stakeholders, and governments. Solar collectors are one of the most optimized and developed renewable energy systems. However, due to the high degree of nonlinearity and many unknowns associated with these systems, optimizing them is an extremely time-consuming and expensive process. This study presents an economically optimal design platform for solar power plants with a fast response time using machine learning techniques. Compared with traditional mathematical optimization, the speed of economic optimization with the help of the machine learning method increased by up to 1100 times. A total of seven continuous variables and three discrete variables were selected for optimization of the parabolic trough solar collector. The objective functions were to optimize the exergy efficiency and the heat cost. As part of the environmental assessment, the cost of carbon dioxide emission was calculated based on the system's exergy and energy efficiencies. According to the sensitivity analysis, the mass flow of working fluid and the initial temperature of the fluid play the most significant roles. A simulated solar collector in Calgary was optimized in order to evaluate the applicability of the proposed platform.
El bazar de los idiotas (1974) de Gustavo Álvarez Gardeazábal : une modalité originale du réalisme magique colombien
Authors: Belrose Maurice
Published: December 2024

El bazar de los idotas a pour cadre la petite ville de Tuluá, sise dans le département de Valle del Cauca, dans les Andes de Colombie. L’action se déroule dans la première moitié du xixe siècle, et le narrateur omniscient raconte avec un humour caustique comment, une fois parvenus à la puberté, deux frères idiots au corps difforme révélèrent, en se masturbant, leur fantastique capacité de guérir les malades et les infirmes. Le narrateur présente ces guérisons comme authentiques, ce qui constitue pour l’auteur une manière de stigmatiser la superstition de ses concitoyens, de se moquer de l’Église catholique ainsi que des médias, lesquels incitent les pèlerins à se rendre en masse à Tuluá, en quête de miracles. Comme chez Gabriel García Márquez, l’exagération est le principal procédé utilisé dans cette œuvre, où Gustavo Álvarez Gardeazábal fait par ailleurs un usage très judicieux des anachronies narratives.
Réalisme magique, réalisme merveilleux et autres modes narratifs de Patrick Chamoiseau « première manière » (I) : le diptyque burlesque Chronique des sept misères et Solibo Magnifique
Authors: Scheel Charles W.
Published: December 2024

Dès 1988, Édouard Glissant avait estimé que l’art de décrire l’univers martiniquais dans le premier roman de Patrick Chamoiseau évoquait ce qui avait été appelé « le réalisme merveilleux, ferment d’une littérature du baroque » en Amérique du Sud. Depuis, les œuvres littéraires de Patrick Chamoiseau se sont développées dans des genres divers (théâtre, romans, essais, « tracées », contes, récits autobiographiques...) ou des textes hybrides. La critique a souvent relevé une « écriture » (ou un « style » ou une « voix ») qualifiée de « baroque » et caractérisée par une oralité pleine de verve et une créolisation du français singulière. En revisitant Chronique des sept misères et Solibo Magnifique, je m’attacherai à montrer comment les notions de fantastique, de réalisme magique et de réalisme merveilleux – redéfinis comme des modes narratifs distincts de la fiction – permettent de compléter la notion de style baroque, pour éclairer la poétique de ces romans de Chamoiseau, qui flirtent par ailleurs avec le grotesque ou le burlesque.
La Grande Drive des esprits de Gisèle Pineau : le roman d’une écrivaine guadeloupéenne à la recherche d’une passe entre réalisme et merveilleux
Authors: Miram-Marthe-Rose Sandrine
Published: December 2024

Divers aspects du roman de Gisèle Pineau, La Grande Drive des esprits, qui se déroule dans le cadre d’une Guadeloupe des années 1930-1970 plutôt réaliste, rappelant parfois des romans de Maryse Condé, évoquent également le merveilleux, voire le magique. L’œuvre se prête donc à une analyse dans la perspective du réalisme magique ou du réalisme merveilleux, fréquemment associés aux littératures caribéennes et plus particulièrement aux œuvres d’une autre écrivaine guadeloupéenne, Simone Schwarz-Bart. Or même quand ces appellations sont distinguées avec précision selon des critères narratologiques plutôt que culturels, par exemple, les choses peuvent être complexes, dans la mesure où l’auteur semble jouer dans l’entre-deux en proposant une structure narrative qui disloque la chronologie et alterne des chapitres rédigés par une narration hétérodiégétique et d’autres par une narration à la première personne intradiégétique. Ces aspects du texte suscitent des questions à la fois sur les limites de son inscription dans la seule définition modale du réalisme merveilleux et sur le positionnement de l’auteur dans les dimensions ethnographique et idéologique d’une œuvre dont la poétique est complexe.
Approches de la pensée décoloniale
Authors: Mencé-Caster Corinne , Bertin-Elisabeth Cécile
Published: December 2024

Cet article vise à interroger les relations complexes et ambivalentes entre postcolonialisme et décolonialité, dans les démarches critiques contre l’impérialisme de l’Occident, à la lumière des notions de « colonialité » du pouvoir et du savoir. Le triomphe des études postcoloniales est ainsi analysé comme la marque de la suprématie de la langue et de la culture nord-américaines qui continuent de coloniser le savoir, au détriment des analyses et courants portés par des langues jugées moins prestigieuses, comme l’espagnol. Une attention particulière est aussi portée au rôle que peut jouer dans un tel débat, une université comme l’Université des Antilles, implantée au cœur de la Caraïbe, avec un statut d’institution française et européenne. Dans la mesure où les études menées au sein de cette université sont validées par les structures universitaires françaises, est-il réellement possible d’y développer un savoir décolonial dont la légitimité est pourtant incontestable ?