bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elevating Virtual Reality Experiences with Olfactory Integration: A Preliminary Review
Authors: Da Silva Meryck Felipe Brito , Sanches Igor Henrique , Borba Joyce Villa Verde Bastos , Barros Ana Carolina de Amorim , Feitosa Francisco Lucas , De Carvalho Rodrigo Mendes , Filho Arlindo Rodrigues Galvão , Andrade Carolina Horta
Published: December 2024

Virtual reality (VR) provides immersive audio-visual experiences but often overlook olfactory senses, which are crucial for human perception and cognition. Smell enhances object recognition, visual spatial attention, and evaluation methods for spatial attention deficits. The sense of smell relies on the olfactory nerve to create a direct link between external stimuli and the limbic system, a brain network involved in regulating emotions such as sadness, anger, joy, and fear, as well as controlling physiological responses like the startle reflex, vocal intonation, pain perception, and memory processes. Artificial intelligence (AI) is essential for integrating odors into VR, enhancing contextual understanding and synchronizing smells with plot developments. Current multi-modal approaches highlight the need for integrated models combining images, texts, and smells. Olfactory cues can enhance memory retention and recall, benefiting educational and training applications. Incorporating scents into immersive technologies creates more realistic and engaging experiences, crucial for fields like healthcare, military training, and education. In this preliminary review, we will explore Olfactory Virtual Reality (OVR) technologies, AI applications, available devices, and future perspectives in the field. Additionally, we will discuss the challenges facing this technology, including issues of delay, size, and the limited range of available odors. A new wearable interface featuring miniaturized odor generators (OGs) and AI algorithms enables rapid responses and low power consumption, achieving latency-free mixed reality. OVR research shows promising applications in treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), alleviating anxiety, and enhancing immersion. Recent advancements, such as compact OGs and computer-controlled olfactory stimulation, represent significant progress in multisensory communication technology.
Enhancing Energy Efficiency in Wireless Sensor Networks through Advanced Algorithms for Wideband Spectrum Utilization
Authors: Bagheri Asma
Published: December 2024

This chapter introduces novel frameworks and analyses for enhancing energy efficiency in wireless sensor networks (WSNs). The research focuses on the development of advanced algorithms that enable dynamically allocation for cognitive radio sensors for wideband spectrum utilization and identify free channels, in order to maximize the network lifetime while optimizing spectrum usage. We present two scenarios for the network lifetime maximization, using both the linear optimization and also game theory. By integrating cognitive radio capabilities into sensor allocation strategies, this approach aims to significantly improve the overall performance and sustainability of WSNs over wideband sensing. Hence, the chapter provides insightful technical details and potential implications of this innovative methodology, shedding light on its potential to revolutionize energy-efficient and spectrum-aware WSN deployments. Additionally, it emphasizes that the proposed solutions and algorithms in this chapter can be easily extended and applied to other sensor networks with diverse functionalities. Finally, simulations are presented to demonstrate the ability of the algorithms, assuming the systems using IEEE802.15.4/Zigbee and IEEE802.11af.
Development of Decision Support Tool for Project Portfolio Management
Authors: Olorunju Mogbojuri Akinlo , Olanrewaju Oludolapo
Published: December 2024

Various methodologies have been employed to address the Project Portfolio Problem (PPP). The success of certain individuals is contingent upon the accurate implementation of the decision-maker’s choices. Project portfolio management often involves the use of management strategies to prioritize and choose projects. These techniques utilize specific criteria for project selection, highlighting that designing a project portfolio is a complex task that requires consideration of multiple criteria. This study focused on to develop a decision supporting tool to prioritize the identified project criteria for project portfolio management. A decision support tool known as analytic hierarchy process (AHP) using Spice Logic Software was implemented to determine the project relative importance weights and priorities of decision options/criteria including project alternatives. The AHP model indicated employment generation, benefits for human living, impact of economic advancements on communities, end agitation in the localities, locale approval, location of project, time factor, developmental risk and job quality, competency of the project department, and skill of the project manager as the most important project portfolio criteria, while the school and health center projects are the needed projects for the people of the communities. The study result provides the practitioners with the project criteria that need special consideration in dealing with project portfolio problem.
Unheard Voices: Older Women’s Experiences of Living with Sexual Abuse in Intimate Relationships across the Life Course
Authors: Zerk Rebecca , Freeman Elize , Roberts Joshua
Published: December 2024

This chapter draws on qualitative longitudinal data from the research initiative: Dewis Choice (2015–2024). It examines the often-overlooked experiences of older women, aged 60 years and older, who have been subjected to sexual abuse within marriage. Focusing on three case studies, this chapter highlights the interplay of personal, societal, and systemic influences on older women’s help-seeking behaviours. Moreover, the chapter discusses the significant impact of sexual abuse on older women’s health and wellbeing, emphasising the need for tailored support services and interventions. Through a sensitive exploration of older women’s stories, this chapter seeks to amplify the voices of older female survivors, addressing a significant gap in the literature.
Understanding Biodiesel: From Feedstock to Fuel
Authors: Malla Fayaz A. , Malla Afaan A. , Rashid Showkat , Sofi Nazir A. , Ahmed Mukhtar
Published: December 2024

Biodiesel has evolved as a viable and environmentally friendly substitute for traditional diesel fuel derived from petroleum. Biodiesel is a fuel that is produced from many sources such as vegetable oils, animal fats, and cooking oil. It provides a cleaner and more eco-friendly alternative for transportation and other energy requirements. This chapter delves into the complexities of biodiesel, covering its manufacturing methods, selection of raw materials, fuel characteristics, uses, and economic and environmental factors to be considered. The book chapter analyses the chemical conversion of feedstock into biodiesel using transesterification, investigating several techniques and their influence on the quality of the fuel. The analysis focuses on important fuel characteristics, including cetane numbers, cold flow, and oxidative stability, and how they affect engine performance and emissions. Moreover, it examines the economic feasibility of producing biodiesel, considering government subsidies, production expenses, and market dynamics. The environmental advantages of biodiesel are emphasized, such as its capacity to decrease greenhouse gas emissions, enhance air quality, and alleviate reliance on fossil fuels.
A Transformer-Based Architecture for Airborne Particles Forecasting: Case Study – PM2.5 in Mexico City
Authors: Luis Maciel-Jacobo Jose , Antonio Aceves-Fernández Marco , Carlos Pedraza-Ortega Jesus , Gorrostieta-Hurtado Efren
Published: December 2024

In this comprehensive research project, our goal is to predict the concentration levels of PM2.5, a critical air pollutant, in Mexico City. To address this challenge, we use an innovative approach based on the transformer model, specifically a modified version called the Informer. This project focuses on improving air quality prediction, a key step in tackling public health concerns and aiding decision-making in environmental management in one of the world’s most densely populated cities. We trained the Informer model using a robust dataset of historical air quality records and evaluated its performance with standard metrics: mean absolute error (MAE) and mean squared error (MSE). The results showed MAE values of 4.6266 and 5.5844, and MSE values of 40.7972 and 55.4009 for each monitoring station, demonstrating the model’s effectiveness in predicting PM2.5 levels. These results highlight the potential of the Informer in enhancing air quality management strategies. We also compared the Informer’s performance with the LSTM model, showing that the Informer not only competes with but may outperform the LSTM in air quality prediction tasks. This underscores the promise of the Informer for future environmental monitoring.
Forgiveness: Practicing Inner Peace
Authors: A. Moran John
Published: December 2024

Since ancient times forgiveness has been a mainstay practice for restoring inner peace and relationship harmony. Interpersonal transgressions can result in long-lasting unforgiveness - anger, negative rumination, avoidance and acting-out behaviors destructive to the self and others. The psychological study of forgiveness has surged recently resulting in a rich body of knowledge about types of forgiveness, the relationship of forgiveness to global mental health and well-being, and what behavioral practices promote the healing powers of forgiveness. This chapter reviews psychological theory and concepts related to forgiveness, models of clinical intervention for increasing forgiveness, and how the new psychology of forgiveness overlaps with the Buddhist notion of enlightenment.
Foundations of Robotic Spine Surgery: Emerging Technologies and Future Directions
Authors: Terry Fernando , Enriquez-Marulanda Alejandro , Pandya Punit , Yazdanian Forough , Papavassiliou Efstathios , B. Moses Ziev
Published: December 2024

Robotic technology is increasingly employed in minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) to mitigate morbidity, operative duration, radiation exposure, and complications. The first FDA-approved (2004) robotic platform was the SpineAssist by Mazor Robotics, followed by the Mazor Renaissance (2011), and the Mazor X Stealth System (2016). These sequential Mazor generations featured enhancements in human interface, hardware, software, range of motion and system capacity. Additional robotic spine surgery systems are the ROSA robot by Zimmer Biomet, the ExcelsiusGPS by Globus Medical and REMI by Alphatec Spine. Some modern stations like the TiRobot have been approved by their country’s governmental regulatory agencies. As spine surgery increasingly transitions to outpatient settings, there is a growing preference for smaller robotic platforms. Lastly, robot-guided endoscopic spine surgery (ESS) represents a significant advancement in ultra-minimally invasive techniques, combining robotic precision with endoscopic methods to enhance surgical outcomes. While it offers benefits like reduced recovery time and improved visualization, challenges such as the steep learning curve and high costs exist, necessitating further long-term studies to evaluate its efficacy and viability. Based on this foundation, this chapter will delineate the historical progression of robotic spine surgery techniques, as well as explore the continuous emergence of novel modalities through rigorous methodological assessment.
Motherhood Penalty, a Silent Phenomenon: Unveiling the Challenges and Inequalities Working Mothers Encounter
Authors: Iddrisu Merri , Mumuni Hadiru Iddris , Agyare Veronica Adwoa , Attafuah Priscilla Yeye Adumoah , Poku Collins Atta
Published: December 2024

The motherhood penalty is a global issue that affects working mothers due to workplace norms, social biases, and systemic hurdles. This “silent phenomenon” results in discrimination and inequality for working mothers, often leading to stigma, guilt, and unrealistic expectations. The chapter explores the hidden challenges working mothers face, including cultural norms, and societal expectations. It also reveals structural barriers, such as discriminatory hiring practices, limited career advancement opportunities, unequal pay, and inadequate support systems. It discusses the emotional and psychological costs of the motherhood penalty, which include guilt, anxiety, self-doubt, mental health strains, and the sacrifices women must make to overcome this challenge. The chapter emphasises the motherhood penalty across countries and among industry players, comparing cultural perceptions to find potential remedies and best practices. It also explores how discrimination based on race, ethnicity, socioeconomic class, and sexual orientation interacts with the motherhood penalty, highlighting the overlapping identities that exacerbate the difficulties faced by working mothers. The chapter offers policy proposals to make workplaces more inclusive and supportive of working mothers, emphasising the importance of empowerment and support. The chapter ends with a call to action, encouraging readers to speak against the motherhood penalty and support legislative changes.
Hydrocolloids as Rheology Modifiers
Authors: Luckham Paul
Published: December 2024

The rheological behaviour of a very common class of hydrogels, namely polysaccharides are described. Here we concentrate on three polysaccharides, namely xanthan, guar and scleroglucan, as the first two are commonly used thickeners and scleroglucan is a relatively new and underused polysaccharide, which has some advantages over the other two at high temperatures. This review describes the chemical and structural nature of xanthan, guar and scleroglucan. Outlines the methods which can be used to investigate the mechanical, (rheological) behaviour of solutions of these polymers, which is then followed by a description of their rheological behaviour. We demonstrate that the rheological behaviour of Xanthan and scleroglucan are similar, but that scleroglucan is much more stable than xanthan with regards temperature, where the rheology oof scleroglucan is stable up to around 150°C, whereas xanthan starts to deteriorate at around 80°C. Both these polysaccharides have a low but significant yield value making them suitable to prevent sedimentation. Guar on the other hand does not have a significant yield value, and at high shear rates has a significantly higher viscosity, giving the appearance of having a higher viscosity, but it has the advantage of inhibiting ice crystal formation.
A Smart Crowd Monitoring and Management Model for Humanity in Intelligent Environments: A Real-Time Application Scenario
Authors: Escobedo Dr. Fernando , Canales Dr. Henry Bernardo Garay , Criollo Dr. Richard Augusto Garavito , Romero Dr. Eduardo Min Yacila , Orellana Dr. Cristihan Sosa , Ramírez Dr. José Alberto Bayona , Vela Dr. Carlos Alberto Lamadrid , Herrera Dr. José Manuel Gálvez
Published: December 2024

A smart city is an ecosystem that employs advanced technology to enhance the flexibility, efficiency, and sustainability of networks and services using data, online, and communications technologies, optimizing the city for the advantage of residents. Numerous cities integrate data collection components from structures or those operated by firms to enhance resource optimization, including energy use, intelligent meters, illumination, water supply usage, traffic information, surveillance pictures, protection models, contamination metrics, and environmental information. The city-as-a-platform idea is gaining traction, and it is becoming clear that towns require effective governance structures capable of implementing smart platforms and public information and extensively utilizing artificial intelligence. In several areas, data collecting poses little challenge; however, managing and analyzing data to optimize resources and enhance inhabitants' lives is a significant issue. This research introduces deepint.net, an online tool for data capture, integration, analysis, generating panels, alarm methods, and optimization methods. This article demonstrates the application of deepint.net to predict congestion on the sidewalks of Melbourne utilizing the XBoost method. In light of the present circumstances, it is prudent to avoid traversing congested metropolitan highways; hence, the framework described in this work aids in identifying regions with less pedestrian activity. This scenario exemplifies a successful crowd control system executed and administered using an application that provides several options for managing data acquired in intelligent territory and urban areas.
An Integrated Approach for Intrusion Detection in Intelligent Grid Computing Networks Using Machine Learning
Authors: Meenakshi K. , Naga Raju Dr.M. , Arandi Dr. Channabasamma , Parameswari Dr.D.V. Lalitha , Deepa Dr.R.N. Ashlin , Potdar Veena
Published: December 2024

Intelligent Grid (IG) systems improve the usability of old energy networks, but they can still be
hacked in many ways. Intruders can get into the system through these holes, risking IG networks'
safety and privacy. An Intrusion Detection System (IDS) keeps services safe and secure in an IG
setting. With the help of Machine Learning (ML) techniques and characteristics, this work shows
an IDS for IG platforms. The categorization algorithm comprises a Convolutional Neural Network
(CNN) and a Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU). The research uses Precision, Intrusion Detecting Rate
(IDR), and False Alarming Ratio (FAR) to rate how well the suggested approach works. It turns out
that the Random Forest (RF) and Neural Network (NN) algorithms did outperform the others. The
study found that the KDD-99 records had a False Alarm Rate (FAR) of 7.29%, and the NSL-KDD
records had a FAR of 7.31%. 88.68% of the time, both methods find things, and 90.87% of the time,
they confirm that they are correct.
Supporting Biliteracy in the English Language Arts through Family Partnerships: Cases of Early Childhood Teachers and Their Arabic- and Russian-Speaking Students
Authors: Stewart Mary Amanda , Abbasher Douha
Published: December 2024

Although research illustrates the benefits of biliteracy, most bilingual students will not have access to a bilingual education program in which they receive official instruction in all their languages. However, the English language arts can become a space where any teacher can support students’ biliteracy through purposeful curricular, instructional, and family engagement choices. This case study of two early childhood educators illustrates specific actions teachers took in their language arts instruction to support home language literacy development, along with English, even with languages they did not speak. Specifically, results illustrate that three key general ideas allowed them to support students’ biliteracy: gathering information about the students and their languages, incorporating the home languages into their classroom, and most notably, developing strong family partnerships for caregivers to play an active role in home language literacy instruction. In this article, we share their specific actions that other ELA educators can take and the response from two students from low-incidence languages: an Arabic-heritage speaker and a newcomer Russian speaker from Ukraine. This study illustrates humanizing, rather than standardizing, language arts instruction that disrupts monolingual norms in order to provide bilingual students (from emergent bilinguals to heritage speakers) a more equitable education.
Over-the-Counter Medicine (OTC) Attitudes and Medication Adherence in Patients with Chronic Diseases: A Structural Equation Modelling Analysis
Authors: Karadaş Canan
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to evaluate over-the-counter medicine (OTC) use, OTC attitudes, and medication adherence (MA) in patients with chronic diseases. Data were collected from May to September 2023, and 276 patients with chronic diseases participated. OTC use, OTC attitudes, and MA were assessed using a questionnaire. One-way ANOVA was used to examine differences in OTC-related parameters and MA. The path analysis method was used to test “H1: OTC attitudes affect MA in patients with chronic diseases.” A total of 52.2% of the participants used OTC. More positive OTC attitudes were associated with lower MA scores. The patients who disagreed with the statement "OTC have no side effects or negative effects" had 0.402 times less MA than those who were not sure (t=2.409; p=0.016). Even though the patients had negative attitudes toward OTC in general, they had an optimistic view of being encouraged to use OTC. The results of this study revealed that OTC use is common, and positive attitudes toward OTC decrease MA in patients with chronic diseases. However, patients with high MA are willing to support OTC use. Patients with chronic diseases may need information on OTC. Nurses and other healthcare professionals can take the potential OTC use of patients, drug-drug interactions, or drug-food interactions into account. According to the needs of patients, structured education programs can be implemented in care.
The Influence of Work Environment and Work Discipline During the Dentist Internship Program (PIDGI) on Dentist Performance with Motivation as a Moderating Variable in West Java, Indonesia
Authors: Anindita Sarasti Laksmi , Subyantoro Arief , Siswanti Yuni
Published: December 2024

This study examines the impact of the work environment and work discipline during the Dental Internship Program (PIDGI) on dentist performance, moderated by motivation. The research involved 86 respondents who had completed the PIDGI in West Java. Data were collected through a questionnaire using a quantitative research design and analyzed using path coefficient techniques to test the relationships between variables. Motivation was measured using goal-setting theory as the primary indicator. The results of the analysis show that both the work environment and work discipline have a positive and significant effect on dentist performance. Additionally, the study found that motivation positively moderates the relationship between the work environment, work discipline, and dentist performance. This research suggests that a good work environment and high work discipline, when supported by solid motivation, can enhance dentist performance in carrying out their tasks. This research contributes essential knowledge to the enhancement of theory and practice in human resource management in the dental profession, particularly regarding internship programs. The study also recommends improvements in work environment elements and motivation as part of efforts to improve dentist performance.
Key Factors in Undergraduate Students Subject Selection: A Case Study at the University of Baluchistan
Authors: Meerullah  , Naseer Ahmad  , Masood khan  , Wadana Tareen
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the factors influencing undergraduate students' subject selection at the University of Baluchistan. The research employs a stratified random sampling method, drawing a balanced sample of 300 students from various faculties, with equal representation of male and female students. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire capturing personal interests, academic performance, socio demographic characteristics, and career aspirations. The analysis was conducted using binary logistic regression in Minitab version 19, focusing on the likelihood of students choosing science disciplines.  Results reveal that factors such as ease and interest in the subject and the influence of media play significant roles in students’ decision-making, positively affecting their choices. Conversely, parents' income shows a significant negative relationship, indicating that financial constraints may deter students from selecting certain subjects. Job opportunities, while relevant, do not exhibit a statistically significant influence. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions by educators and policymakers to address the diverse factors shaping academic choices and to support students in aligning their decisions with their interests and aspirations.
Application of Data Mining for Prediction of High School Student Graduation Rates
Authors: Kurniawan Muhamad , Isa Sani Muhamad
Published: December 2024

The implementation of Data Mining in the education sector aims to develop methods that are able to discover valuable knowledge from data generated in the educational environment. This can be used to increase learning efficiency by paying more attention to students who are predicted to have low grades. However, in its application, each algorithm shows different performance depending on the attributes and dataset used. In this study, a dataset of semester grades and final school exam scores was used. Some of the prediction techniques used are decision trees, support vector machines, and neural networks. Of the four scenarios for the science major at SMAN 2 and SMAN 3 Pangkalpinang with 3 different models, the Mean Squared Error value shows that the test results are in accordance with the testing dataset and can be used as predictions of students' final grades, namely the decision tree model and support vector machine. For the Social Sciences major at SMAN 2 and SMAN 3 Pangkalpinang with 3 different models, the Mean Squared Error value shows that the test results are in accordance with the testing dataset and can be used as a prediction of students' final grades, namely the support vector machine model.
Analysis of Service Quality of Mitra Mart Online Vegetable Store Using E-Servqual & Importance Performance Analysis (IPA) Method
Authors: Adnan Fahroby , Leba Katarina , Prasetyo Beny
Published: December 2024

The implementation of online learning necessitates the provision of adequate IT infrastructure support and the dissemination of awareness among all relevant parties, including lecturers, students, and parents. The prevailing pandemic situation has underscored the necessity for such measures encourages the adoption of online learning. Learning Management System (LMS), often referred to as e-learning, plays an important role in facilitating this transition. Another critical aspect to consider is user readiness and acceptance. The Technology Readiness and Acceptance Model (TRAM) is a method that can be used to analyze these factors. This study utilizes TRAM to evaluate the readiness and acceptance of LMS, focusing specifically on lecturer users in the East Java Province area, encompassing both public and private universities. The purpose of this article is to assess the level of readiness and acceptance of LMS among lecturers in East Java and to identify factors influencing their adoption. The findings reveal that the level of readiness among lecturers in adopting LMS tends to be low. Furthermore, several hypotheses related to the use of LMS by lecturers are explored, providing insights into the factors influencing technology adoption in higher education.
ANALYSIS OF RURAL WOMEN PARTICIPATION IN AGRICULTURAL DECISION-MAKING PROCESS AMONG RICE FARMERS IN ZONE A OF KANO STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Kabiru, M., K.  , Sani, R., M.  , Ibrahim, A. A.  , Jibril, S., A.
Published: December 2024

The study examines the analysis of rural women participation in agricultural decision-making process among rice farmers in Zone A of Kano State, Nigeria. A Multistage sampling technique was used to select 377 rural women farmers for the study. Data were collected using structured questionnaire and analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The study revealed that morethan half (54.6% and 50.1%) of the rural women agreed and strongly agreed that they sourced household finance through personal savings and government and NGO’s while majority (65.5% and 71.9%) of the respondents were members of cooperatives and had contact with extension agents respectively. The result also revealed that a notable proportion (42.4% and 40.8%) of the respondents had agreed that they received agricultural information through cooperatives/associations and fellow farmers respectively. Furthermore, the result revealed that morethan half (50.1%) of the repondents agreed that they received information on processing and marketing of rice while majority (58.9%) of the respondents strongly agreed that they received information on water and soil management. The result also showed that 44.7% of the respondents revealed that they were fully involved in selection of manure/fertilizer decision-making and 45.9% mentioned they were to large extent involved in sowing seed decision-making. The result also showed that 32.9% of the respondents participated in winnowing while 20.0% participated in marketing in the study.  The regression results, showed that education level was found to be significant (P<0.05) respectively, while, farm size, farming experience, membership in cooperative society, extension visit and level of income were also found to be significant (P<0.01) respectively, with R2 0.723. The study concluded that rural women farmers are generally involved in decision-making processes and participation on rice production, processing and marketing such as selection of manure and fertilizer, sowing, threshing, winnowing and packaging among others. The major constraints associated with rice production, processing and processing includes inadequate financial support, less availability of time, traditional beliefs and cultural values among others. The study recommends women participation in agricultural decision-making process will enhance investment in girl child education should be prioritized by the government in other to increase female literacy rate and women empowerment in agriculture.
AWARENESS AND ADAPTATION STRATEGIES TO CLIMATE CHANGE AMONG RURAL FARMERS IN UKUM LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF BENUE STATE
Authors: Dzahan, H. L.  , Beeior, C.T.  , Ogbu, E.S.  , Igbanyam, C.
Published: December 2024

The study awareness and adaptation strategy to climate change among rural farmers was conducted in Ukum local Government area of Benue State, Nigeria. The objectives were to analyze the socioeconomic characteristics of the respondents, determine how knowledgeable farmers are about climate change and analyze the adaptation strategies employed by the rural farmers. Simple random and purposive sampling procedures were employed in selecting 108respondents; and questionnaires were used for data collection. Means, percentages, frequency distribution tables and multiple regression analysis were used for data analysis. The result showed that 55.56% fall within the age group of 36 to 50 years, 60% of the Respondents were males, majority of rural farmers could read and write, about 51% were married, the result showed that 28% of the respondents which  were the majority cultivated yam. Result revealed that 54% of the respondents were knowledgeable about climate change effects .The results also revealed that adaptation strategies employed by rural farmers were use of mulching/planting of cover crops, early planting, delay in date of planting of some crops, increase in cultivated land, multiple cropping and application of organic manure to cope with the effects of climate change in the study area. In addition, the results of regression analysis revealed that age (0.01), household size (0.01), income (0.05) and farming experience (0.05) were the significant factors influencing farmer’s adaptation to climate change. The concludes that more than half of the farmers in the study area were aware of climate change and planting of cover crops, delay in planting and early planting were some strategies adopted by farmers to cope with it. The study recommends that more awareness be created to increase the percentage of farmers that are aware of the negative effects of climate change and farmers should be trained to embrace practices that will reduce the effect of climate change on agricultural productivity in the study area.
FACTORS INFLUENCING THE ADOPTION OF AGRICULTURAL INSURANCE AMONG CROP FARMERS AS CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION STRATEGY IN BORNO STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Baba, A. M.  , Abdullahi, S.  , Garba, M.
Published: December 2024

The study examined the adoption of agricultural insurance among crop farmers as climate change adaptation strategy in Borno State, Nigeria. Multistage stage sampling technique was used in selecting 270 respondents for the study. Data were collected using structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results reveal that the majority of respondents were between 36 and 49 years old, with a mean age of 37 years. Majority (60.7% and 80%) of the respondents were male   and   married. The mean household size, farm size, farming experience, and income of the respondents were 7 persons, 2 hectares, 7 years and ₦261,300, respectively. A reasonable proportion (37.8%) of the respondents had secondary education with majority (74.8%) having no access to credit. Most (83.0%) of the respondents in the study area had access to extension services. Majority (69.3%) of the respondents were aware of agricultural insurance. with a mean of 2 years of awareness. Half (50.0%) of the respondents sourced information on agricultural insurance from cooperatives. The major type of insurance adopted by the respondents were theft (20.0%), diseases (17.0%), and pest outbreaks (15.9%). The factors influencing the adoption of agricultural insurance in the study area were age (P < 0.01), educational level (P < 0.05) and access to extension services (P < 0.01). The major constraints to the adoption of agricultural insurance in the study area include high premium costs (71.1%) and inadequate awareness (70.0%) to mention few. The study concludes that age, education level and access to extension services were the factors influencing adoption of insurance as climate change adaptation strategy in the study area. The study recommends that the government and non-governmental extension services should embark on sensitization campaign to raise the awareness crop farmers on the importance of insurance and effort should be made by the concern stakeholders to subsidize the premium in order encourage patronage.
Policy Zones: Purpose Limitation at Scale using Information Flow Control
Authors: Tiwari Abhishek
Published: December 2024

At the heart of privacy lies the principle of purpose limitation, dictating that data should only be processed for explicitly stated purposes. This principle presents a considerable challenge, especially for organisations operating at the scale of Meta, which handles vast amounts of data from billions of users.
Predation on Anguis fragilis by Coronella austriaca photo-documented by a citizen in a new UTM square in Serbia
Authors: Simić Žarko , Nikolić Sonja
Published: December 2024

In a previously unreported UTM square, a citizen spotted a smooth snake feeding on a slow worm. Although not a spectacular finding, this is a new distributional record for both species and a nice example of how an expert NGO can help inform and educate laypeople regarding wildlife.
Radionuclide contamination in agricultural and urban ecosystems: A study of soil, plant, and milk samples
Authors: Aichouche Mohamed , Petrović Mihajlo , Živković Milena , Krstić Dragana , Branković Snežana
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the presence of radionuclides in soil, plant, and milk samples from rural and urban areas. Using gamma spectrometry, the activity concentrations of radionuclides were measured to assess potential exposure pathways for external gamma radiation and radionuclide transfer through the food chain. Higher activity levels were generally observed in rural environments, while certain plant and milk samples revealed trace contamination. These findings underscore the importance of continuous environmental monitoring to safeguard food safety and mitigate risks associated with radiological contamination.
The presence of amphibians and reptiles in the Golija Mountain compared with fauna of other areas
Authors: Ajtić Rastko , Nikolić Sonja , Simović Aleksandar , Ćirković Glorija
Published: December 2024

Batracho- and herpetofauna of the Golija Mountain have not yet been sufficiently explored. During nine years of research, a total of 22 species of amphibians and reptiles were recorded in the Nature Park "Golija", and in the area of the "GolijaStudenica" Biosphere Reserve, which comprises 45.83% of all autochthonous amphibians and reptiles in Serbia. The presence of the species was ascertained by direct or indirect observation. Some species were recorded for the first time. Most species have the status of strictly protected. Sorensen's similarity coefficient had high values between Golija Mt. and all compared areas. The presented data are not final, but they significantly contribute to the knowledge of the fauna of these areas. It is necessary to establish long-term research and a system of active or passive monitoring.
Annual monitoring population of earthworms (Clitellata: Lumbricidae) in man-affected ecosystems around artificial Gruža reservoir
Authors: Sekulić Jovana , Trakić Tanja , Popović Filip , Bajagić Marija
Published: December 2024

The rresent study investigates the earthworm sommunities in man-affected esosystems around artificial Gruža reservoir. The study took plase during 2023 and 2024, during the three seasons: summer, autumn and spring. Surrounding Gruža reservoir earthworms were sollected from various habitats which insluded natural (reservoir banks, meadows, forest community), and cultivated biotopes. Field research was conducted in assordance with ISO 2361 standards. Our results show that earthworm communities are poor and uniform. During our research, recorded four eregrine and one Trans-Aegean species. The main threats to earthworm rorulations identified in this research are habitat degradation due to waste, agrisultural activities, and increased tourism and recreational activity. In this regard, the measures that the competent authorities would implement could be beneficial to esosystems and, consequently, to earthworm communities. Based on the results presented in this paper, it is necessary to continue the intensive research to preserve the biological diversity of the area.
Significance of the analysis of banking and financial performance in the countries of the Western Balkans in the period 2010-2019
Authors: Lutovac Jelena
Published: December 2024

The significance of the analysis of banking and financial performance in the countries of the Western Balkans in the period 2010 - 2019. The analysis of the banking and financial sector represents one of the main elements in the development and economy of the economies of many countries. This comes to the fore especially in developing countries, in countries that want to be integrated into stronger economic integrations, in conditions of crises and wars. The banking system is considered to represent one of the basic elements of the market economy. Namely, by centralizing money capital, it collects and transforms savings and deposits of citizens, companies and the state. These funds are used in the further banking process as sources of placement and in this way the smooth flow of money through the payment system is enabled. If we look at the financial sector in the countries of the Western Balkans, then it is evident that it is necessary to monitor the indicators of the financial system. All analyzes indicate that the Covid-19 pandemic has been a major threat worldwide since 2008.
Impact of digital transformation on the competitive advantage of companies
Authors: Zimonjić Marijana
Published: December 2024

The introduction of digital transformation has influenced the competitive advantage of companies. Key factors of digital transformation, as well as ways in which technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data, automation, and cloud computing enable companies to improve their operations, innovate products and services, and achieve sustainable competitive advantage in the market. The research aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the impact of digital transformation on competitive advantage, identify success factors, as well as the challenges companies face. The research findings will help managers and business leaders to better understand how they can leverage digital technologies to achieve sustainable growth and competitive advantage in the modern marketplace. The issue of digital business transformation has become a subject of interest for management theorists and practitioners only in recent years, so there is a lack of theoretical contributions in this area. The ultimate goal of digital business transformation is to create added business values. Organizations can make this goal more achievable by defining a clear, comprehensive digital transformation strategy that should highlight key digital advantages.
Organization of accounting for the purpose of producing real reports as the basis of management in the public sector with an emphasis on healthcare institutions in the Republic of Serbia
Authors: Brakus Aleksandra , Đuranović-Miličić Jadranka , Gligović Dejan
Published: December 2024

Accounting organization, especially in the real functioning of the public sector, is based on reports on all important events that occurred in the business of legal entities. This is of great importance when compiling accounting reports, which are the basis of the overall financial reporting in the business of all legal entities, and especially in the reporting of the public sector. They should contain all legally prescribed elements of reporting, and this is of great importance for the business of the public sector, which operates to a large extent or is directly linked to the work of budgetary institutions, that is, to business with funds that were created by the allocation of taxpayers. The goal of real accounting reporting is to present business events in a realistic, correct, accurate and timely manner. In this way, it is possible to present the essence of financial reports in a realistic light, which are the basis for making valid business decisions both in the public sector and in other parts of economic activities. The paper provides an overview of the operations of health institutions and their relationship to real financial reporting as a basis for better and more successful operations within the public sector that regulates health issues.
The importance of forensic accounting for the management process in medium-sized enterprises, the example of the Republic of Serbia
Authors: Gligović Dejan , Brakus Aleksandra , Jović Vladan
Published: December 2024

Management by decision-makers in medium-sized enterprises in modern socio-economic conditions can be successfully improved by using forensic accounting and forensic audit in regular business processes. The basis for such observation of the managerial role of top management is the application of real reporting in all parts of the company, and that of all important events that occurred in a certain period of observation, i.e. for which the reporting refers. Forensic accounting is basically introduced with the aim of realistically reducing negativity in business, such as: economic affairs within legal entities, speculative actions emerging within companies or in relation to false, inaccurate and untrue reporting to banks, state authorities, etc., preventing corrupt actions, fraud in public procurement, that is, in a word, in the prevention of criminal activities. Forensic audit essentially performs entrusted tasks on the basis of the obtained documents and informs the top management in the reports on the performed tasks in the form of recommendations on how to prevent and remove illegal business in the future, that is, to bring it to a tolerable level in the regular business of heterogeneous legal entities.
Human trafficking and human (in)security
Authors: Pajić Nataša
Published: December 2024

The paper focuses on exploring the impact of human trafficking on human security. The primary research method employed is a review of scholarly literature. Considering the complexity of the research subject, scientific papers from various disciplines have been examined. The aim of this article is to present key theoretical considerations and empirical findings regarding the mechanisms through which human trafficking influences different dimensions of human security, namely personal security, health security, food security, economic security, political security, and community security. Findings indicate that human trafficking seriously jeopardizes all domains of human security, and the negative consequences extend beyond the physical integrity and health of the victims. Upon exiting the trafficking network, victims often encounter economic insecurity and community stigma, which hampers their reintegration and creates fertile ground for re-victimization. Hence, considering the far-reaching implications of trafficking in all spheres of life, it can be inferred that human trafficking is a significant cause of human insecurity.
The role of information in the information society
Authors: Lazarević Sofija
Published: December 2024

The first part of the paperwork deals with the analysis of the concept and the role of information in the information society. The concept of information as we use it in everyday language plays a central role in modern society. It is common to consider information as a basic condition for economic development along with capital, labor, and raw materials, but what makes information particularly important in the present is its digital nature. The difference between information, data and knowledge is presented. The focus of the second part of the paperwork is the information society. The information society is a concept that emphasizes the use of information and information technologies in almost all areas of society. It is considered the successor of the industrial society. The information society is managed by knowledge, expertise and only informed decisions and actions. It requires and promotes clarity, precision, honesty and openness. Closely related concepts are post-industrial society, postfordism, postmodern society, knowledge society, telematics society, information revolution and network society.
Cultural changes in the late modern period: Understanding the transition from materialistic to post-materialistic values
Authors: Vitezović Ivan
Published: December 2024

This paper deals with the consideration and perception of cultural changes in the late modern period. It seeks to understand in which way and why the changes occurred, as well as to provide an account of the wider socio-historical context in which the transition from materialist to post-materialist value orientations took place. The results of many empirical studies clearly show this value change at the global level. It started in the 1970s, continued during the 1980s (being further stimulated by social changes such as: the fall of the Berlin Wall, the collapse of communism in Eastern Europe, the emergence of the neoliberal capitalist paradigm at the global level) and continues even in the current age of intense globalization. , networking of society, increased competitiveness on the labor market, etc. Through the presentation of the broader context, this paper seeks to provide a new angle of viewing the studies conducted in this field of research, which has an increasing importance both in the academic context and in the everyday life of people.