bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Land Cover Change on Soil Erosion in Awach Kibuon Sub-basin, Kenya
Authors: Hellens Olgah , Masika Dennis , Long’ora Albert
Published: August 2024

Land cover change is a significant driver of soil erosion. While soil erosion is a natural process, human activities can significantly alter the landscape, making soil more vulnerable to erosion. This erosion reduces a watershed's capacity to sustain vital natural resources and ecosystem services. This study investigated the impact of these changes on soil erosion within four hydrological units (Awach Kibuon, Awach Owade, Awach Kasipul, and Awach Kabondo) of the Awach Kibuon sub-basin between 2018 and 2023. The specific objective of the study was to quantify the effect of land cover change on soil erosion rate and determine how specific land cover types affect soil erosion in the study area. This study employed a quasi-longitudinal design to assess the influence of land cover changes on soil erosion. Sentinel-2 NDVI satellite imagery provided land cover data. The land cover maps, soil data, rainfall data and the Digital Elevation Model were used in the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation Model within a GIS environment to estimate soil erosion rates. The study revealed a consistent decline in vegetation cover across all hydrological units, as indicated by a decrease in NDVI. The mean NDVI decreased by 12.88%, 10.92%, 4.78%, and 11.92% in Awach Kibuon, Awach Owade, Awach Kasipul and Awach Kabondo respectively. Conversely, the mean soil erosion rate increased by 23.9% in Awach Kibuon, 17.85% in Awach Owade, 24.43% in Awach Kasipul, and 20.54% in Awach Kabondo. Sediment yield increased by 33% in Awach Kibuon, 18% in Awach Owade, 17% in Awach Kasipul, and 23% in Awach Kabondo. These findings suggest a direct relationship between reduced vegetation and elevated soil erosion. The relationship between land cover and erosion varies depending on the density of vegetation. Areas with dense vegetation cover have an inverse relationship, highlighting the protective role of vegetation cover. However, the study also observed that very dense vegetation areas which were also found in high-sloped areas experienced high soil erosion rates. The erosion rate increases even in areas that have experienced an increase in vegetation cover. This is because these areas are also found in high-sloped areas. The slope factor superseded the ability of vegetation cover to protect against soil loss. In conclusion, the change in land cover has significantly increased soil erosion in the Awach Kibuon Sub-basin, however, the slope factor also accelerated soil loss in the basin. Therefore, a holistic approach that combines promoting vegetation cover with land management techniques like terracing and drainage channels is crucial for mitigating soil degradation and water sedimentation in sub-basin.
Attacks, Challenges, and Countermeasures for an Integrated IoT Framework
Authors: Alaba Fadele , Madu Ifeyinwa , Musa Haliru
Published: August 2024

The Internet of Things (IoT) has lately attracted a lot of interest owing to the fact that it has several applications in a variety of fields and makes communication easier across a variety of levels. The IoT is made up of three unique levels, which are the physical layer, the network layer, and the application layer at the most fundamental level. The purpose of this study is to examine security threats and the responses that correspond to them for each layer of the IoT architecture. Additionally, the article investigates the implications that arise from security breaches on IoT devices. In addition to providing a detailed taxonomy of attacks, this research reveals security weaknesses that are present inside each tier of the IoT network. In addition to this, the article investigates a variety of modern security frameworks, investigates probable security flaws, and investigates remedies that correspond to those vulnerabilities. In conclusion, the article proposed the "Unified Federated Security Framework," which is an all-encompassing security architecture made specifically for IoT networks. In order to facilitate the ability of users inside the security layer to acquire access to resources situated within a separate security layer, the proposed framework is based on the building of trust across the three levels. This allows users to gain access to resources without having to utilise the account of another user.
Synthesis, Biological Evaluation and Molecular Docking Studies of Benzimidazole Derivatives Substitutes as New Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Bansal Sonal , Gaur Rishabh , Bhardwaj Harsh , Kumar Nitin , Sharma Gyanendra , Mishra Shashank
Published: August 2024

Benzimidazole derivatives have assumed an imperative moiety in the hypothetical improvement in heterocyclic science and furthermore utilized broadly in organic synthesis. The synthesis, structure and biological activities of benzimidazole derivatives have been focal point of research enthusiasm for the field of medication because of potential exercises displayed by them. Developments of more current lead atoms are utilized to improve pharmacological action and lessen drug toxicities. After extensive literature review it was thought worthwhile to synthesize some Benzimidazole derivatives and evaluate their antibacterial and antifungal activities. A series of new 2-(1H-benzimidazole-2-yl) phenyl)-2-(substituted benzylidene) hydrazine was designed for showing the above activity. The different hydrazine derivatives (4a-4i) were synthesized by using different substituted benzaldehyde compounds. The structures of synthesized compounds were characterized by IR, 1H NMR, Mass spectral data and elemental analysis. Synthesized compounds were tested in vitro for different kinds of pharmacological activity of this class of medications including antibacterial and antifungal action. The compounds 4d and 4e found most active against E.coli and P. aeurigenosa and 4i found to be most active against B.subtilis and S.aureus. The derivative 4c shows good activity against C.albicans and A.niger. Molecular docking analysis was performed to investigate the binding affinity of the synthesized compounds with target proteins. By means of this research it is concluded that Benzimidazole derivatives are a potent compound compressing of different pharmacological activities and this has been proved by docking studies too. Further evaluation of their properties is required before they can be adopted for widespread use.
Mobilising Practices of Human Resources During COVID-19: Application of Managerial Innovation
Authors: Joseph Atangana , Lucie Naie
Published: August 2024

The health crisis caused by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) has had a major negative impact on the human resources of companies of all sizes and in all sectors (cessation of activity, obligation to stay at home). In the absence of compensatory financial measures, company containment (closure) is not an option to avoid more serious social consequences. It is therefore preferable for companies and managers to adopt other measures to limit the impact of this pandemic on human resources. Given this destabilisation of the business community, a number of innovative management practices will emerge and become a real imperative for mobilising human resources. The aim of this article is to identify models of managerial innovation put in place by managers to mobilise human resources during the current health crisis. Based on a review of the literature on managerial innovation and strategies for mobilising human resources in times of health crisis on the one hand and, on the other, a single-site case study of 6 Cameroonian companies operating in different sectors of activity, we show that, under the prism of COVID-19, a number of managerial innovations such as teleworking, team rotation and part-time working, social communication, salary maintenance, health support and coaching can emerge and become real spurs for the mobilisation of human resources.
Effects of Different Potting Mixture on Early Development of Afzelia quanzesis Welw. Species Seedlings
Authors: Mahinya Monica , Shirima Deo
Published: August 2024

Planting native plant species is becoming increasingly important as the world begins to realise the importance of restoring ecosystems, especially since many valuable species are on the brink of extinction due to human over-exploitation. Afzelia quanzensis Welw. is one of the valuable timber species, highly targeted in uncontrolled selective loggings, hence threatening its existence. This study assessed the effects of different potting mixtures on A. quanzensis early seed germination, which is an essential step for its mass propagation. Four different potting mixtures: T1 (forest soil, agricultural residues, tobacco, and cow manures), T2 (forest soil, tobacco manure), T3 (forest soil and cow manure), and T4 (forest soil and agricultural residues) were utilised. Employing a completely randomised design with each mixture replicated four times, the study monitored growth parameters, such as leaf count and seedling height, over one month. Results from two-way ANOVA with Turkey’s multiple comparisons test showed that forest soil and cow manure (T3) yielded the tallest plants and highest scores of leaf count. The study provides valuable insights for nursery managers and researchers working on the mass propagation of the A. quanzensis tree species for plantations in the region.
Representation and Generation of Prime and Coprime Numbers by Using Structured Algebraic Sums
Authors: Papadakis Ioannis
Published: August 2024

The algebraic structure and distribution of prime numbers remain two of the most fundamental problems in mathematics. The Fundamental Theorem of Arithmetic, proved by Euclid, and Goldbach’s conjecture, while universal in scope with respect to how numbers can be represented multiplicatively or additively, do not provide insights into the structure of primes. Similarly, the definition of a prime −as a number divisible only by 1 and itself− or a sieve algorithm, commonly used to generate primes by successively eliminating multiples, offer no insight into the structure of primes. The powerful and persistent consideration of prime numbers as universal “arithmetic quanta” has not necessitated an equally powerful need for parallel research into a deeper and possibly more insightful explanation of primeness, that is, a better understanding of “why” a number is prime. In this paper, prime and coprime numbers are represented and generated by algebraic expressions. Specifically, given the first n primes, p1, p2,…, pn, sufficient conditions are given for expressing primes greater than pn, and coprimes with prime factors greater than pn, as algebraic functions of p1, p2,…, pn. Thus, primality and co-primality are shown to be mathematical properties with inherently evolutionary algebraic characteristics, since larger primes and coprimes can be generated algebraically from smaller ones. The methodology described in the paper can be a useful tool in the study and analysis of the complexity, structure, interrelationships and distribution of primes and coprimes.
Existence and Numerical Investigation of Monkey-Pox Mathematical Model by Natural Adomain Decomposition Method
Authors: Rahman Imtiazur , Ali Amjad , Habib Furqan
Published: August 2024

In this paper, studied the mathematical model concerning the transmission of Monkey-Pox disease. A class viral disease that mostly occurs in west and central Africa, transmitted from animals into human is belonging to the Small-pox family known is Monkey-pox infections disease. According to the scientist the primary best of the proposed disease is still in doubt. The proposed model will be investigate for the purpose of both qualitative and numerical solutions. At the early stage of this study, investigate the existence of proposed model. In this connection, the authors developed the desired condition of existence and stability for consider model by using the tools of analysis. At the second phase of this research work,the author investigated the numerical solutions for the consider Monkey-pox transmission diseases model. For numerical investigation, the authors use the tool of well know semi-analytical techniques known as Natural Transform coupled with Adomain Decomposition Method. The consider techniques are powerful tools for of obtaining approximate solutions of differential equation or system of differential equations. The proposed techniques base on recursive scheme for solutions of system of differential equations. For the authenticity and accuracy of obtain solutions, the obtain solutions are visualized graphically to desired the dynamical behavior of desired results with the help of Mathematica. That show the proposed method is best tools for solution of differential equations.
Effect of Seed Rate on Forage Yield, and Nutritional Value of Sudan Grass and Vetch Mixtures in Ethiopia: A Review
Authors: Ambaw Habtie , Tadilo Mekuanint , Kumie Berie
Published: August 2024

The livestock feed resources in Ethiopia are classified as natural pasture, crop residues, improved pasture and forage, agro-industrial by-products, and also hay production of which the first two feed resources are the major feed contributors for the livestock production in Ethiopia but they are lacking in protein and minerals. Natural pastures contribute about 80-85 of animal feed in Ethiopia, including naturally occurring grasses, legumes, shrubs, hurbs, and tree foliages. Crop residue is one of the feed resources used for animal production in Ethiopia and is available in those areas in which livestock and crop production are practiced. Around 30 million tonnes of DM of agricultural crop residues are produced annually on the national scale, of which 70% are used as animal feed. The major agro-industrial by products commonly used in Ethiopia are obtained from different agro-industries. The nutritional values of agro-industrial by products are excellent but their productivity is small, limited, and limited to few farms in urban and peri-urban areas and they contribute much less to livestock feed. Furthermore, traditional livestock feed supply mainly depends upon natural pasture and crop residues, which have low crude protein and other chemical composition. However, there is tremendous potential to alleviate feed shortages using improved forage production. To fulfill this gap, producing a stable improved forage in the livestock sector is mandatory. For that reason, the legume and grass intercropping system are important to increase biomass production and forage yield. Hence, Sudan grass (Aden gode) known with its plant height than other cultivars and vetch (Vicia dasycarpa) have greater plant height and creeping growth habit that enable compatible to larger grass species and they are selectable forages to enhance the forage yield and quality under similar times.
Path Analysis and Correlations Among Yield and Related Traits in Different Genotypes of Soybean (Glycine Max (L.) Merill) in the Benishangul Gumuz Region, Western Ethiopia
Authors: Fufa Wakjira , Weyessa Bulcha
Published: August 2024

Soybean is a warm-climate industrial crop, thrives in low- to medium-altitude legume crops. However, its production in Ethiopia lags behind global standards due to limited improved varieties and reliance on narrow genetic base materials, resulting in low productivity. Consequently, an experiment was undertaken to evaluate the genetic variability and associations among traits in various soybean genotypes concerning grain yield and related factors. Forty-nine soybean genotypes were assessed using a simple lattice design with two replications at Assosa Agricultural Research Center during the main cropping season of 2020. The majority of the characteristics displayed positive correlations both at phenotypic and genotypic levels. Seed yield had highly significant and positive correlations, genetically and phenotypically, with the total number of seeds/ plant, number of pods/primary branch per plant, and the weight of a hundred seeds, indicating the potential for concurrent enhancement of grain yields and these associated traits. The total number of seeds/ plant had the greatest genotypic (0.94) and phenotypic (0.51) -+direct influence on seed yield, followed by the number of pods/primary branch per plant and the weight of a hundred seeds, which showed higher genotypic direct effects on seed yield. This suggests that specific emphasis should be placed on these traits for direct selection aimed at improving yield. Moreover, through examinations of genetic diversity, it has been confirmed that there exists significant variability among the evaluated genotypes. This discovery offers valuable insights for future soybean breeding programs. The identification of such variability is crucial as it allows breeders to select and develop soybean varieties with desirable traits, ultimately contributing to the improvement and advancement of soybean varieties.
Enhancing Renewable Energy-Grid Integration by Optimally Placed FACTS Devices: The Nigeria Case Study
Authors: Ugwuanyi Nnaemeka , Ozioko Innocent , Uma Uma , Nwogu Ogechi , Ugwuoke Nestor , Ekwue Arthur , Nwokocha Nathan
Published: August 2024

Integrating renewable energy sources into existing power grids presents considerable challenges, especially with the intermittency of wind and solar power. This issue is particularly acute in developing countries like Nigeria, where grid infrastructure is often weak, significantly limiting the potential for RE penetration. This study explores strategies to enhance RE integration in Nigeria by employing Flexible Alternating Current Transmission System (FACTS) devices. By leveraging the reactive-power sensitivity index through modal analysis, the optimal location for the FACTS device can be determined. Analysis of the Nigerian power grid demonstrates that the deployment of FACTS devices, specifically Static Synchronous Compensators (STATCOMs), can increase the penetration limit of RE by 40%. This enhancement allows for the integration of an additional 152 MW of wind energy without compromising system stability. The findings underscore the potential of FACTS devices to improve voltage profiles and overall grid stability, thereby facilitating a higher integration of renewable energy sources into weak grids without necessitating substantial changes to the existing power system architecture. This solution can help Nigeria and other countries with similar infrastructure challenges to overcome their renewable energy integration hurdles and transition towards a more sustainable, reliable, and resilient energy mix, paving the way for a cleaner and greener future.
Impact of Citizens Do-It-Yourself Activities on Digital Platform of Community Policing in Malawi
Authors: Kumwenda David , Tembo Mavuto , Mphande Chrispin , Nundwe Vincent , Chazema Thokozani , Kaunda Dorah , Ahmad Zubair
Published: August 2024

Digital platform has become catalyst for effective and efficient enforcement of rule of law in human society. This study examines impact of citizens do-it-yourself activities on digital platform of community policing in Malawi. Under exploratory sequential mixed methods design, Interviews followed purposive sampling targeting four focus group discussions of 10 participants each using interview guide instrument. House hold survey identified 432 respondents guided by Yamene (1969) formular, and were randomly distributed within 10 centers of Muloza, structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Transcribed interviews were coded, then grouped into sub themes, further merged into themes responding to research questions with help of NVivo application. House hold survey analysis implored descriptive statistics in SPSS version 20. Guided by pragmatics philosophical assumptions under lens of social-disorganization, democratic participation, and broken window theories, findings reveal citizens have participated in virtual interaction through ICTs in community policing, characterized by formal and non-formal wide participation improving police accountability and transparency in handling policing and, citizens are satisfied with level of engagement during virtual interaction. Multinominal regression shows gender has no impact on factors that influence Do-It-Yourself participation are (1) communication and sharing information between citizens and police p=.747, (2) to be aware of rights violations and safety needs, (3) people’s involvement in rights violations and suspicious activities p=.708, (4) citizen’s involvement in crime prevention and community policing efforts, (5) to maintain community dialogue and engagement p=.088, (6) looking for faster emergency response times, and (7) to provide evidence and share information with authorities p=.806. Effectiveness of digital participation of Do-It-Yourself is that it is at random and influenced by different causes surrounding personal interests. As such they could be engaged on daily, weekly, occasionally or monthly basis as long as citizens secure their environments. The discussion is that while other studies reveal that ICTs may reduce corruption, this current study reveals that flexibility and user friendly of ICTs allowing formal and non-formal wide participation that has improved police accountability and transparency in policing empowers citizens to participate claiming for their rights to secure their environments in community policing. Based on findings the study recommends community guardians including duty bearers like police officers to enlighten citizens to embrace ICTs for more security empowerment to take part in security issues of their times.
Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Nurses’ Towards Physical Restraints for Critical Ill Patients in Orotta National Referral Hospital
Authors: Kidane Hisabu , Habtemariam Merhawi , Tewelde Rahel , Mahmud Sulieman , Habte Eyasu
Published: August 2024

Background: Physical restraint can be defined as any act that avoids a person's liberated body change to a position of preference and, or regular evaluation to their body by the application of any technique, attached or adjacent to a person’s body that they cannot manage or remove easily. Inappropriate use of physical restraints may cause patients grave damage. Different studies informed that patients faced to physical restraints pass on due to pneumonia, constipation, and incontinence, as well as circulatory and respiratory problems. Critical care nurses should make correct decisions regarding use of physical restraints if they are to guarantee patient safety by the accountable nurse. Aim: the intention of this study was to assess nurses’ knowledge, attitude and practice; towards physical restraints use. Method: study design was a descriptive cross Sectional that used to assess knowledge, attitude and practice of nurses towards physical restraints in Orotta national referral hospital with self-administered questionnaire. Lastly data was analyzed using SPSS version 26. Results: the study was conducted among 100 nurses. 60% of the respondents were females and the median age of the study participants was 28 (IQR=6) years, with a minimum age of 21 and maximum age of 50yrs. Most of the study participants 31% had age of 25 or less years. Majority of them were diploma level and did not take any physical restraint related training 55% and 84% respectively. Except in recovery (12%) and adult ICU (27%) areas, the number of nurses in medical, surgical and adult was similar (each 20%). More than ninety percent (94%) of the study participants were not aware of the presence of guidelines regarding physical restraint in their work area. Conclusion: In this current study we concluded that, there was no correlation between knowledge and attitude and also between attitude and practice. But there was correlation between knowledge and practice. Those who have good knowledge can practice well. Nursing implication: By evaluating the current nurses’ knowledge, attitude and practice, this study will contribute recommendation on the frequent training of nurses on physical restraints and possible avoidance of it or safe practice.
Determination of Water Requirements and Irrigation Scheduling for Major Cereal Crops Grown in Welmera District, Central Highland of Ethiopia
Authors: Abebe Nigusie , Temam Mohammed
Published: August 2024

Determination of crop water requirements and appropriate irrigation scheduling is important to prevent over or under-irrigation. The study was conducted to determine the crop water requirement and irrigation scheduling of the selected cereal crops grown under irrigated conditions at Holeta, Central Highland of Ethiopia. The crops include wheat, maize, and barley. By using the 30-years climatic data, the crop evapotranspiration (ETc), reference crop evapotranspiration (ETo), and irrigation water requirement for each crop were determined by using the CROPWAT model which is based on FAO-Penman Monteith equation. The results indicated that, the CWR for the early January sown wheat, maize, and barley was 380.2mm, 433.2mm, and 399.2mm respectively. The seasonal gross irrigation requirement was estimated to be 633.67 mm, 722 mm, and 665.33 mm for wheat, maize, and barley respectively. for 1st January sown wheat, maize, and barley, irrigation should be given nine times for wheat (1-Jan, 10-Jan, 21-Jan,5-Feb, 16-Feb, 26-Feb, 11-Mar, 25-Mar, and last irrigation on 10-Apr), with GIR application of 50.3mm, 28.1mm, 34.6mm, 48.2mm,56.6mm,67.2mm,69.5mm, 66.2mm, and 72.3mm depth respectively. Seven times for maize (1-Jan, 19-Jan, 5-Feb, 19-Feb, 6-Mar, 21-Mar, and last irrigation on 10-Apr) with GIR of 54.1mm, 51.2mm, 73mm, 89.8mm,96.9mm, 97.7mm, and 100.8mm depth respectively and eight times for barley (1-Jan, 11-Jan, 25-Jan, 6-Feb, 16-Feb, 1-Mar, 15-Mar and last irrigation on 30-Mar) with GIR amount of 42.5mm, 29mm, 39.6mm, 54.1mm, 60mm, 61.6mm, 63.1mm, and 64.1mm depth at each irrigation date respectively. This study might be useful in preventing over or under-irrigation and planning water management strategies in the district for the selected crops.
Comparison of Physically Based and Empirical Modeling of Nighttime Spatial Temperature Variability during a Heatwave in and around a City
Authors: Saranko Olli , Suomi Juuso , Partanen Antti-Ilari , Fortelius Carl , Gonzales-Inca Carlos , Käyhkö Jukka
Published: August 2024

The numerical weather prediction model HARMONIE-AROME and a multiple linear regression model (referred to in this article as the TURCLIM model after the local climate observation network) were used to model surface air temperature for 25–31 July 2018 in the City of Turku, Finland, to study their performance in urban areas and surrounding rural areas. The 0200 LT (local standard time) temperatures modeled by the HARMONIE-AROME and TURCLIM models were compared to each other and against the observed temperatures to find the model best suited for modeling the urban heat island effect and other spatial temperature variabilities during heatwaves. Observed temperatures were collected from 74 sites, representing both rural and urban environments. Both models were able to reproduce the spatial nighttime temperature variation. However, HARMONIE-AROME modeled temperatures were systematically warmer than the observed temperatures in stable conditions. Spatial differences between the models were mostly related to the physiographic characteristics: for the urban areas, HARMONIE-AROME modeled on average 1.4°C higher temperatures than the TURCLIM model, while for other land-cover types, the average difference was 0.51°C at maximum. The TURCLIM model performed well when the explanatory variables were able to incorporate enough information on the surrounding physiography. Respectively, systematic cold or warm bias occurred in the areas in which the thermophysically relevant physiography was lacking or was only partly captured by the model.

Significance Statement

As more and more people are living in an urban environment, the demand for accurate urban climate modeling is growing. This study aims to understand the differences between the numerical weather prediction and multiple linear regression modeling and their limitations in modeling surface air temperature in subkilometer scale. The case study shows that models are capable of predicting the spatial variation of 0200 LT nighttime temperature during a heatwave in a high-latitude coastal city. Both models are therefore valuable assets for city planners who need accurate information about the impacts of the physiography on the urban climate. The results indicate that to improve the performance of the models, more accurate physiographic description and higher spatial resolution of the models are needed.
Simulation of a Mesoscale Convective System Using a New Formulation for Advection in a Bin Microphysics: Sensitivity to Advection, Microphysics, and Grid Spacing
Authors: Lynn Barry , Gavze Ehud , Khain Alexander
Published: August 2024

A computationally efficient semi-Lagrangian advection (SLA) scheme designed for microphysical variable advection was implemented into the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model with spectral bin microphysics (SBM). The primary goal was to reduce the CPU time for advection of the scalar SBM variables and demonstrate its applicability to simulation of a real-data case study in the eta vertical coordinate system. A mesoscale convective system (MCS) in Midlatitude Continental Convective Clouds Experiment (MC3E-0520) was selected for simulations. We compared the SLA and high-order, nonlinear monotonic advection schemes and tested the sensitivity of the simulated radar reflectivity, microphysical, and dynamic properties of the MCS to the choice of microphysical schemes, aerosol concentration, and grid spacing. Simulations using the SLA and monotonic advection schemes were similar, and the differences between them were much smaller than those between the SBM and bulk microphysical schemes tested. Improvement of the grid resolution had a larger impact on the vertical velocity field than did the choice of aerosol concentration. The total computational time in simulations with SLA was about 25% shorter than that with monotonic advection, which resulted from a reduction of more than 50% in computational time required for advection of the microphysical variables.

Significance Statement

Clouds comprise particles of various sizes and types: aerosols, liquid droplets, ice crystals, hail, and snow. Two major approaches describe the time and spatial evolution of these particle species: solving basic microphysical (bin microphysics) and simplified parameterization (bulk microphysics) equations. Bin microphysics is time-consuming as it operates with size distributions described by multiple mass bins. Among the microphysical processes, the advection of the microphysical variables requires significant CPU time. We tested a new numerical advection scheme that requires several times less computer time than the standard high-order nonlinear schemes being of similar accuracy. Due to the introduced change, the advection of droplet size distributions became less of a factor affecting the total computer time of bin-type schemes. This is an important step toward making the bin approach computationally efficient without losing accuracy. It is shown that the sensitivity of the results to spatial grid spacing and to the choice of microphysical schemes is significant and may be larger than that to variations in the aerosol concentration.
Mean Platelet Volume/Platelet Count Ratio and Dipper/Non-Dipper Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Nurkoç Serdar Gökhan , Yakışan Turab
Published: August 2024

There is an interaction between mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet count (PC), inflammation, and platelet reactivity. The present study evaluated the relationship between the MPV/PC ratio and blood pressure (BP) using 24 h ambulatory BP monitoring (ABPM). A total of 720 patients (male: 291) were included in the study. Based on the ABPM outcomes, they were divided into two groups: dipper hypertensive ( n = 350; male: 136) and non-dipper hypertensive ( n = 370; male: 155). Peripheral venous blood samples obtained at admission were used for PC and MPV calculations. Both groups displayed identical clinical characteristics. Non-dipper hypertensives had a higher MPV/PC ratio than dipper hypertensives [0.044; (0.036-0.055); 0.036 (0.030-0.042); P < .001]. According to receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, the optimal cut-off value of the MPV/PC ratio for predicting non-dipper patterns in hypertensive patients was 0.040 (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.726, P < .001). Sensitivity was 64.1% and specificity was 64.3%. The MPV/PC ratio may represent mechanisms involved in increasing cardiovascular risk in non-dipper hypertensives compared with dipper hypertensives.
Indigenous Data Sovereignty: A Catalyst for Ethical AI in Business
Authors: Rana Vishal
Published: August 2024

In the age of rapid AI advancement, digital colonialism poses a significant threat to Indigenous communities, perpetuating inequalities and exploiting their data. This commentary delves into the concept of Indigenous data sovereignty as a powerful framework for resisting digital colonialism and promoting ethical AI development.
Perceived effects of digitalization on social work in Finland: A network analysis approach
Authors: Saukkonen Petra , Elovainio Marko , Salovaara Samuel , Virtanen Lotta , Kaihlanen Anu-Marja , Kainiemi Emma , Vehko Tuulikki , Heponiemi Tarja
Published: August 2024

Drawing on a socio-technical approach, we examined Finnish social welfare professionals’ (n = 990) perceptions of the effects of digitalization on their work and how these are associated with factors related to work and client information system usage using mixed graphical modelling. Overall, perceptions were predominantly positive. Digitally replaced services were most common in the non-public sector. Higher client information system ratings were associated with perceptions of more active client roles, supportive decision support systems and faster service processes. The relationship between various factors and perceived effects of digitalization appears complex and should be considered during the digital transformation of social work.
The association between trajectories of marital status and successful aging varies by sex: Findings from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA)
Authors: Ho Mabel , Pullenayegum Eleanor , Burnes David , Fuller-Thomson Esme
Published: August 2024

This study examines the sex-specific impact of marital trajectories among older adults on successful aging to help social workers identify those most at risk for sub-optimal outcomes who may benefit from targeted interventions. Binary logistic regression analyses were used to investigate 7641 older Canadians who were classified as ‘aging successfully’ in the baseline wave of the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging. Men who were continuously married, continuously widowed, or became married between the waves were more likely to age successfully than their never-married counterparts. For women, marital trajectories played a modest role. Social work interventions are discussed.
Social Policy, Development and Democracy in Africa: Reconnoitering Thandika Mkandawire’s Philosophy
Authors: Tom Tom
Published: August 2024

Social policy, development and democracy in Africa are dominated by externally engineered and controlled philosophies. This has resulted in policy regimes and architecture that fail to sustainably improve the wellbeing of the continent. The article is conceptual and utilises interpretive methodology, and Transformative Social Policy to draw insights from Thandika Mkandawire’s philosophy on social policy, development and democracy. The prime argument of the article is that Mkandawire’s ideas contribute immensely to interrogating and improving inclusive development, governance and social policy in Africa. Nonetheless, Mkandawire’s philosophy is not the sole pathway to Africa’s transformation, and cannot be applied uniformly across Africa.
Methodological Implications of the Phenomenon of Mispresence
Authors: Williams Richard N. , Gantt Edwin E. , Purtschert Emily
Published: August 2024

Contemporary psychology has typically endorsed two approaches to understanding expressed experience as narrative data: representation and presence. We argue that neither representation nor presence fully captures the nature of experience, especially insofar as distinctly ethical phenomena such as self-deception are part of our human behavioral repertoire. Developing more sensitive methodological approaches to the study of such experiences requires a fuller appreciation of the metaphysical, epistemological, and ethical nature of human behavior which informs human action and our forms of inquiry about it. Effectively addressing this aspect of our humanity will require a rather dramatic shift in our methodology-based understanding in psychology. In short, investigating fundamentally morally significant phenomena must be carried out in a way that acknowledges how the moral aspect of any phenomena is accounted for, and that requires careful understanding of the moral character of the most primitive level of experience. It is at this level that the phenomenon of mispresence is encountered. Therefore, this article seeks to unfold that phenomenon and articulate its implications for psychological study of lived experience.
“Talking About Funerals Won’t Make You Dead”: Dialogic Tensions in Death Café Design and Facilitation
Authors: Cherry Jessica , Black Laura W.
Published: August 2024

Death Cafes (DCs) explicitly encourage conversation and constitute space to explore the dialogue around death and dying. This study draws on scholarship from communication and dialogue theory to explore the design features and facilitation practices used within DC meetings. Through qualitative analysis of the DC webpage and interviews with facilitators, the study uncovers how DC facilitators structure and manage conversations to help attendees normalize death conversations and manage the death anxiety of others in their lives. The analysis highlights three main tensions within the DC structure and facilitation guidelines: structure versus openness, authority versus equality, and conversation versus information. These fundamental contradictions are inherent in DCs, and facilitators need to manage them in order to promote meaningful dialogue among DC participants. This study deepens the theorizing around DC facilitation practices and has implications for death and dying practitioners hoping to foster dialogue about end-of-life topics.
Case report: Perineal swelling: A rare case of scar endometriosis
Authors: Sanap Arun , Choudhary Amruta , Yadav Anita , Patokar Gauri
Published: August 2024

We report a rare case of episiotomy site scar endometriosis manifested as painful perineal swelling near the anus for 2 years affecting daily routine activity, especially during menses. A 33-year-old female, para 2 with both vaginal deliveries with last child birth 8 years back. A 2.5 × 3 cm firm, tender nodule was present on the posterior vulva at the right mediolateral episiotomy site. Trans-perineal and trans-anal ultrasound scan was done, anal sphincter involvement was ruled out and the nodule was excised with free margins. histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of scar endometriosis. The key takeaway from this case is endometriosis can present after 8 years of vaginal delivery. The timely diagnosis and treatment is necessary as delay may cause anal sphincter involvement or malignant transformation.
The Techno-Optics of Safety: Surveillance and Women's Ambivalent Experiences in South Korea's “Smart Safe City”
Authors: Yang Chamee
Published: August 2024

The rise of “scientific security” discourse has spurred the use of optical technologies and data analytics in crime prevention. It has coincided with a shift in smart city narratives, positing these developments as enhancing women's freedom and safety in urban spaces. However, these narratives often overlook the nuanced and embodied experience of safety and women's ambivalent relationship with technology, while framing its use as a binary choice between privacy or safety. While enhanced legibility of the city may help visualize and predict crimes through algorithms, this focus on visual and data-driven methods tends to ignore critical aspects of safety, especially those conditions not directly observable like domestic and gender violence. This paper critically examines the complex relationship between gender and “smart safe cities,” using Seoul, South Korea as a case study. Drawing upon literature on technology and cities, and the history of women in Korea, this paper challenges the assumptions underlying these initiatives that supposedly empower yet over-victimize women. By integrating historical perspective with analysis of new spatial safety techniques, the paper highlights the disjuncture between the prevailing techno-optical regime and the tangible experience of safety, emphasizing a need for more holistic and relational approach to safety.
Heteronormativity and its Private and Public Balancing in Sri Lanka
Authors: Ghosh Subham , Singh Smriti
Published: August 2024

Within the public sphere of South Asian countries, prominent movements to formally recognise gender diversity and decriminalise same-sex relations have had effects in Nepal and India, but same-sex relations remain a criminal offence in Sri Lanka and other South Asian countries. Against this background, the article analyses an early novel by the Sri Lankan Canadian writer Shyam Selvadurai, showing how prohibition and tolerance go rather uneasily hand in hand within the public and private spheres of Sri Lanka, creating anxious precarities in the everyday lives of individuals, their families and supporters within a heteronormative framework. Since formal legal recognition per se can never fully guarantee the freedom to live one’s life as one desires, the article discusses, in light of Selvadurai’s work, to what extent private individual strategies of navigation and self-management remain crucial for non-heteronormative individuals.
Book review: Saurav Kumar Rai, Ayurveda, Nation and Society: United Provinces, c. 1890–1950
Authors: Saghar Amol
Published: August 2024

Saurav Kumar Rai, Ayurveda, Nation and Society: United Provinces, c. 1890–1950 (Hyderabad: Orient BlackSwan, 2024), xxviii + 264 pp.
Innovative culture, innovative behaviour, social capital and performance of small and medium ICT enterprises in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Ibeku Stanley Ejike , Nwagwu Williams Ezinwa
Published: August 2024

This study examined the influence of innovative culture, innovative behavior, and social capital on the performance of Small and Medium-sized Information and Communication Technology Enterprises (SMICTEs) in Lagos, Nigeria. It also explored how innovative culture and social capital affect innovative behavior. Guided by Social Exchange and Social Capital theories, the study utilized a descriptive sample survey research design. The study was conducted at Otigba and Saka Tinubu Computer Villages in Lagos, using a sample of 360 business owners or representatives. Data was collected using a pretested and validated questionnaire covering innovative culture, social capital, innovative behavior, performance, and demographic characteristics. Analysis involved Confirmatory Factor Analysis, and Structural Equation Modelling, with decisions made at a 0.05 significance level. Respondents included owners (67.4%), supervisors (13.6%), managers (12.6%), and other staff (6.8%). Most were male (78.2%), aged 21–40 (71.4%). A majority (95.8%) could generate new ideas, 83.8% explored novel methods, and 91.4% shared innovations internally. Trust among SMEs was low (43.4%), but mutual support was valued (60.4%). Innovative culture positively impacted performance (β = 0.299) and predicted innovative behavior (β = 0.315), while social capital also predicted innovative behavior (β = 0.191). Social capital and innovative behavior did not significantly predict performance. There should be collaboration between Nigeria's NITDA and ICT SMEs to foster innovation through continuous learning, mentorship programs, networking mechanisms, and technology hubs.
A comparative study of microstructure and texture evolution in low cost titanium alloy swarf and powder recycled via FAST and HIP
Authors: Lister S , Levano Blanch O , Fernández Silva B , Weston N , Jackson M
Published: August 2024

Solid-state recycling of titanium alloy powder and swarf could improve the sustainability credentials of the aerospace industry, allowing other sectors to benefit from the “low-cost” titanium produced. This study compares the microstructure and crystallographic texture produced when Ti-6Al-4V powder and loose/briquetted swarf are recycled through FAST and HIP. Results show that different microstructures and textures can be achieved through control of the processing temperature. When processed above the beta transus temperature, there are similarities between swarf and powder, processed via FAST and HIP. However, processing below the beta transus results in differences between the swarf/powder and FAST/HIP processed samples. Both techniques can be successfully applied to recycle low-cost titanium swarf, however the pre-briquetting of swarf is recommended.
Effect of arc parameters on metal transfer in consumable electrode melting during the VAR process by numerical investigation
Authors: Cui Jiajun , Li Baokuan , Liu Zhongqiu , Xu Jianxiang , Qi Fengsheng
Published: August 2024

In this paper, a transient integrated model is proposed to investigate the liquid metal transfer mechanism during the consumable electrode melting process of vacuum arc remelting (VAR). The main arc parameters such as arc distribution, arc length and current intensity all have an obvious influence on electrode melting. This model is first validated and then applied to simulate the electrode melting under different arc parameters. The numerical results show that the droplet transfer is the only metal transfer mode throughout the electrode tip at the diffuse arc, a long arc length (50 mm) and a small current intensity (4760 A). The metal transfer mode is mainly drip short with little proportion of droplet transfer at the short arc length (10 mm), and the drip short can only be formed at the electrode centre under both constricted centric arcs and both larger current intensities. The concentration of arc heating, short arc length and large current intensity can all lead to a higher electrode melting rate. The predicted maximum melting rate is 11.48 kg/min at the 10 mm arc and the minimum melting rate is 4.96 kg/min at 4760 A under the specific operating conditions studied.
Experimental investigation of small wind turbine airfoil under pulsate suction jet
Authors: Aziz Mohamed A. , Elsayed Ahmed M. , Benini Ernesto , Ali Salah H. R. , Gaheen Osama A.
Published: August 2024

Recently there has been a great concern in applying active airflow control to Small wind turbine blade airfoils to improve the aerodynamic characteristics. One of these novel methods is the application of pulsed air jets. The current study is involved in the experimental investigation of the effect of the pulse flow control on the performance parameters of the NACA 0012 airfoil at the Reynolds number (Re) range from 0.5 × 105 to 1.4 × 105. The pulsed flow was studied at frequencies of 3, 6, and 9 Hz while keeping the suction pressure at −1200 Pa. The results were compared to the standard clean NACA 0012 airfoil. The results indicated an increment in lift coefficient at frequency 9 Hz at Re of 0.5 × 105 with Smaller angles of attack below 12o while the pulsating frequency 3 Hz has the maximum lift coefficient with an increment of 6.14%. At Re of 1.1 × 105 the pulsate frequency 9 Hz has the maximum lift coefficient with an increment of 16.33% with a delay of the stall angle of attack by one degree. At Re of 1.4 × 105 the reduction in drag coefficient was observed at different pulse-controlled frequencies where it reached 7.5%, 5.1%, and 27.4% at frequencies f = 3 Hz, f = 6 Hz, and f = 9 Hz respectively.