bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards Sustainable Aquaculture in the Philippines
Authors: Platon Ronaldo
Published: December 2024

The Philippines has one of the highest per capita fish consumptions in the world. However, in recent years, the national total fish production could not meet this per capita requirement. There are three fishery resources, namely commercial and municipal fisheries and aquaculture, but only aquaculture offers the potential to fill the gap between increasing demand and supply. Further growth and development of aquaculture is faced with problems, which can jeopardize its sustainability. Sustainable aquaculture requires that these key constraints are properly addressed. It is only then that the potential for growth and sustainability of Philippine aquaculture can be realized.
Mechanical, Chemical, and Surgical Methods of Contraception
Authors: Oblepias Virgilio
Published: December 2024

This paper discusses mechanical, chemical, surgical methods of contraception and the intrauterine contraceptive devices. Mechanical methods include condom for men and women and diaphragm or cap. Chemical methods consist of the application of chemical preparations which are spermicidal. Surgical methods are sterilization procedures. Female sterilization is done by one of several methods such as laparotomy, mini-laparotomy, laparoscopy, culdotomy, culdoscopy, and hysteroscopy. Male sterilization or vasectomy involves cutting and tying of the vas deferens. Different types of IUDs are described. The paper further discusses the mechanism of action, advantages, and disadvantages of the different contraception methods or devices.
Hormonal Contraception: An Approach to the Demographic Crisis in the Philippines
Authors: Negre-Pareja Mildred
Published: December 2024

This paper aimed to analyze the acceptance of hormonal contraceptives and the performance of women users in the Philippines. It further discusses the development of hormonal contraceptives, the recent evidence about health benefits and risks, issues in oral contraceptive use, and new drugs and their benefits. The hormonal contraceptive methods in the form of oral contraceptive pills and injectables enjoy the first choice of Filipino women who use contraceptive methods. Discontinuation rates are due to side effects and health concerns. The method failure for such methods is 5.4% in the first year. The prospect of immediate future use is higher than with other methods. The paper makes some recommendations on hormonal contraceptives for individuals and institutions.
Sex Preselection in Animals: Current Methods and Applications
Authors: Valdez Conrado
Published: December 2024

Advancement in sexing technologies, when used with other animal reproductive technologies, presents opportunities to boost food production from animal sources and thus increase the availability of animal protein in the Filipino diet. The ability to predetermine the sex of offspring before and after fertilization of the ovum would allow farmers to raise animals of the desired sex based on their breeding needs and market demands. This paper reviews current sperm sexing technologies such as flow cytometry or cell sorting, H-Y antigen detection, and detection of sex-specific proteins on the sperm surface, as well as embryo sexing technologies such as chromosome analysis, polymerase chain reaction, and other methods. Moreover, it discusses how sexing technologies can further enhance other reproductive technologies, namely artificial insemination, embryo transfer, in vitro fertilization, embryo splitting, and cryopreservation, and the potential applications of these technologies in animal production.
Probing the Decisions Behind Induced Abortion in the Philippines
Authors: Perez Aurora
Published: December 2024

Often a subject of emotional debates that unleash strong and opposing views, abortion, in particular, induced abortions, remains a health concern deserving public health policy action. While there have been several studies on the causes and consequences of abortion, data on a scale that would generate reliable estimates of the prevalence of abortion for the whole country remains scarce. This paper uses a mix of available data on abortion in the Philippines and complements the profiles of women who have had abortions with life stories to give the abortion statistics the needed human face. The compelling circumstances surrounding the hard decisions to terminate unwanted pregnancies show that Family Planning Program interventions on preventing unwanted pregnancies have the potential of reducing induced abortions. Given the combination of the secrecy of abortion decisions and procedures and the limited capacity of our health system to provide post-abortion care and treatment due to limited resources to meet competing health needs, it is crucial that imperfections in the use of the more effective methods of family planning are addressed to prevent unwanted pregnancies, an event in women's lives that push them into preventable complications and ill-health effects of induced abortions and at worst, maternal deaths.
Demographics and Education
Authors: Nebres Bienvenido
Published: December 2024

From data obtained during the work on Division Elementary Development Plans (DEDP) for the 20 poorest provinces in the Third Elementary Education Project (TEEP) and from more recent data of the Department of Education, we would like to explore the challenges posed by demographics on providing elementary education to all Filipino children. The data show us: (1) The pressure on the number of teachers, classrooms, and budget; (2) High dropout rates in the poorest provinces (about 20% in the first two grades); (3) Health problems especially lack of water and toilets; (4) Problems of distribution; (5) Diversity of the system.
For example, there are many students and not enough classrooms in urban areas and, on the other hand, classrooms without students in some rural areas because there are not enough students to meet minimum requirements. Some conclusions are that the size, diversity, and complexity of the problems do not allow for centralized solutions. It is important to seek solutions on the division or district level.
The Humanities in Our Intellectual and Cultural Life
Authors: Dalisay Jr. Jose
Published: December 2024

Forty-five years after C.P. Snow's famous and contentious lecture at Cambridge on "The Two Cultures," of the humanists and scientists, we continue to suffer, not so much from this dichotomy in our ways of thinking, but rather from their shared subservience in this country to a third "culture," the culture of politics, of base survival and self-interest from the lowest to the highest levels of our government and society.
If our critical faculties were truly at work, the Filipino humanist should have no trouble concluding that the way forward—culturally and economically—can only be led by a greater awareness and application of science in our national life, especially in our education.
But rational decisions like this are held back by the supervening claims of politics, which are neither humanist nor scientific, and by a naïve and retrograde conception of science and humanities as options—mutual exclusivity, and bordering on frivolous—rather than imperatives.
The humanities, in particular, are often taken for a little more than entertainment, a belletristic indulgence devoid of rigor and practical significance.
The question to ask should really not be where the humanities might be located in our intellectual and cultural life—something for which I suspect we already know the answers—but rather where intellect and culture belong in our national consciousness.
Talent and Innovativeness to Meet the Challenges of Global Standards in Scientific Productivity
Authors: Saloma Caesar
Published: December 2024

Universities, particularly their science and engineering graduate programs, are primary producers of precious intellectual capital. This paper examines the generation of intellectual capital in the Philippines in terms of the number of PhD and MS graduates produced in the natural sciences and the number of scientific papers authored by scientists with Philippine-based affiliations. It utilizes 21 years of graduation data (from the school year 1983-84 to 2003-2004) from the College of Science, University of the Philippines, and an 11-year publication output (1993–2003) of Philippine-based scientists in peer-reviewed journals indexed by the Institute of Scientific Information. The Philippine performance is compared with that of other ASEAN countries for the same period.
The findings are discussed from the perspective of Schumpeter's theory of business cycles. The analysis reveals that the most serious challenge facing intellectual capital generation in the Philippines is the lack of quality graduate programs for producing competent PhD graduates in the sciences and engineering. Local graduate programs are vital for retaining young, talented BS graduates who are otherwise likely to go to foreign universities due to a lack of viable options locally.
Vision and Aspirations for Philippine Agriculture
Authors: Yap Arthur
Published: December 2024

This paper describes the Department of Agriculture's vision of prosperous rural communities built on profitable farms that provide surplus for agro-industry and food security. Two major goals which the Department has focused on are (1) searching and developing 2 million ha of agribusiness land and aquamarine areas and (2) converting surplus production to lower prices of food items. For goal 1, 350,000 ha have been identified, of which 70,000 ha have been developed with the private sector, generating 124,000 new jobs. For goal 2, the Department has expanded the supply and reduced the cost of basic food items by establishing efficient logistics and marketing systems. Further, the Department has recommended a shift in focus from big farmers to small farmers and a change of program model from one that is supply-driven to one that is demand-driven and which is based on the principles of good governance based on transparency, accountability, and predictability and allowing meaningful participation by stakeholders.
Inovasi Model Bisnis Platform untuk Meningkatkan Keunggulan Kompetitif Teknologi Digital di Industri E-Commerce Indonesia: Studi Kasus UMKM
Authors: Agustin Ananda Tri , Al Hafidz M. Zacky , Susanti Susi , Sanjaya Vicky F.
Published: December 2024

The e-commerce industry in Indonesia is experiencing rapid growth, driven by advancements in digital technology and changes in consumer behavior. In facing intense competition, innovation in platform business models becomes key to enhancing competitiveness, especially for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This study analyzes how innovation in platform business models can strengthen the competitive advantage of MSMEs in the e-commerce sector. The methodology used is qualitative, employing in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The results show that MSMEs adopting platform business models can achieve higher operational efficiency, reach broader markets, and enhance customer loyalty. However, challenges such as limited resources and a lack of digital skills must be addressed through training and support. This study recommends the importance of government support in helping MSMEs adapt to digital innovations
Potential Sources and Contamination Levels of Pb and Ni in Surface Sediment of Lampung Bay, Indonesia
Authors: Kusumaningsih Alvianita Rika Putri , Prartono Tri , Koropitan Alan Frendy , Khotib Mohammad , Hartanto Mochamad Tri , Natih Nyoman Metta N.
Published: December 2024

Sediment in Lampung Bay has been reported to contain heavy metals, but information on their sources and the level of contamination is limited. This study aims to estimate the sources of lead (Pb) and nickel (Ni) and the extent of their contamination. Five locations were chosen to collect sediment samples, and heavy metal concentrations were determined by geochemical partitioning using the Sequential Extraction Procedure Bureau Commune de Reference of the European Commission (SEP BCR) method. The results showed that the total Pb concentration ranged within 12.48–24.46 mg/kg, dominated by the residual fraction (9.62–23.74 mg/kg) compared with the non-residual fraction (0.21–0.55 mg/kg). The total Ni concentration ranged within 7.48–13.70 mg/kg, also dominated by the residual fraction (2.95–7.96 mg/kg) compared with the non-residual fraction (2.54–5.75 mg/kg). These results have not exceeded the quality standards set by the Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council (ANZECC). The dominance of the residual fraction in both metals suggests that natural sources are the primary origin. The level of contamination was assessed using the enrichment factor (EF), geo-accumulation index (Igeo), contamination factor (CF), and pollutant load index (PLI). In general, the sediments of Lampung Bay have been contaminated and enriched by Pb and Ni. However, the enrichment remains harmless to organisms and the aquatic environment. The SEP BCR method can be used to determine the partitioning of heavy metals in marine sediments and estimate the sources of natural or anthropogenic inputs, making it a valuable tool for initial monitoring related to assessing the sources and extent of heavy metal contamination in marine sediments.
Modification of Walls’ Thermal Resistance Value in the Saudi Building Code According to a Comprehensive Green Assessment
Authors: Shamseldin Amal K. M.
Published: December 2024

Mostadam is the Green Building Rating System in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Indoor thermal comfort assessment is one of the key issues in Mostadam. Controlling the thermal characteristics of the building envelope is one of the main methods to achieve thermal comfort. In Mostadam, these characteristics should comply with the Saudi Building Code for energy conservation, where the required thermal resistance value (R-value) of the above-grade walls for twelve thermal zones are unified despite their various climatic aspects. Taif city, for example, has a moderate temperature for most of the year in contrast to many Saudi cities that share the walls’ R-value. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the importance of considering a comprehensive assessment of a building across all its life stages before judging any green practice. Therefore, a simulation methodology was used for a set of models through which the impact of R-value on the building’s assessment to its different stages can be checked. Simulation results showed that half the value of the required Saudi code’s R-value can give the same thermal target in Taif city. But the higher R-value means more materials and loads, which accordingly leads to more construction costs. To decide that a conservation method is appropriate, it should be judged over the whole life cycle of the building. Thus, it is not considered appropriate if a thermal solution gives the same energy consumption during the operational building stage but more cost during the construction and demolition stages. The manuscript results in that the suitable R-value that should be used within the Saudi codes and, therefore, Mostadam for the above-grade walls in Taif city is 1 (m2 K)/W, as it maintained the targeted thermal comfort achievement with less building construction cost. It is recommended to evaluate the Saudi code values accordingly.
Ich sehe was, was du nicht siehst – zum Konfliktpotenzial von Ambiguität in Nachhaltigkeitskonzepten
Authors: Heinrich Claudia
Published: December 2024

Mit zunehmender Sichtbarkeit des glo- balen Klimanotstandes rückt Nachhal- tigkeit verstärkt in den Fokus von Krisen- und Risikomanagement. Dabei ist die Auseinandersetzung mit Deutungsof- fenheit und Bedeutungsvielfalt, die den Fragestellungen der Nachhaltigkeit in- härent sind, entscheidend, um komple- xe Herausforderungen zu meistern und praxisrelevante Lösungen zu entwickeln. Dieser Beitrag untersucht diese Phäno- mene der Mehr- und Uneindeutigkeit als Wirkfaktoren für nachhaltige Entwicklung und ihre Auswirkungen auf Konflikte in Transformationsprozessen. Dabei wird eine Grenze identifiziert, die gleichzeitig in den Kontext hineinwirkt: die individuelle Disposition zur Verarbeitung mehrdeutiger Stimuli, wie sie im Konstrukt der Ambiguitätstoleranz konzeptualisiert und operationalisiert werden kann. Der Artikel plädiert für eine rekursive Konfliktbearbeitung, um Trans- formationsprozesse zu gestalten. Span- nungen sollten als Ausgangspunkt für Forschungsagenden genutzt werden.
Von der ökologischen zur nachhaltigen Identität: Ihre Bedeutung für nachhaltiges Handeln
Authors: Menethil Stefanie , Strubel Isabel T. , Zieris Patricia , Kals Elisabeth
Published: December 2024

Nachhaltige Identität wird als neues Konstrukt eingeführt und mittels eines Instruments messbar gemacht. Es er- weitert das bestehende Konzept der ökologischen Identität im Sinne des Dreiklangs der Nachhaltigkeit um öko- nomische und soziale Ziele. Entwick- lungsprozess und Struktur der Skala spiegeln die Konfliktfelder des Nachhal- tigkeitsbegriffs und die Herausforderung wider, alle drei Dimensionen zu integ- rieren. Basierend auf einer Online-Be- fragung von 282 Teilnehmenden werden die Zusammenhänge dieses Konstrukts mit ökologischer Identität und nachhal- tigkeitsbezogenen Konstrukten unter- sucht. Ist nachhaltige Identität geeignet, über den Einfluss der ökologischen Identität hinaus nachhaltiges Handeln zu erklären? Die empirischen Daten be- stätigen diese Annahme, sodass sich positive Implikationen für die weitere Erforschung und Förderung nachhalti- gen Handelns ableiten lassen.
What Might Make Life Better?
Authors: Welker Michael , Witte John
Published: December 2024

Dieser Band analysiert die mächtigen normativen Grundlagen, die – im Guten wie im Schlechten – den moralischen Charakter und die ethische Bildung in Europa, Amerika, Australien, Südafrika und anderen spätmodernen liberalen Gesellschaften prägen. Auf der Grundlage einer groß angelegten interdisziplinären und internationalen Studie analysiert dieser Band zunächst die sich wandelnden Orte und Rollen dieser normativen Grundlagen sowohl in den traditionellen sozialen Sphären von Familie, Religion, Recht, Politik und Märkten als auch in den neuen sozialen Sphären von Bildung, akademischer Forschung, Gesundheitsversorgung, Medien und Militär. Alle diese sozialen Systeme und ihre komplexe Gewaltenteilung sind für den Aufbau eines guten Lebens und einer guten Gesellschaft heute unverzichtbar. Keines dieser sozialen Systeme sollte die anderen dominieren. Mit ihren jeweiligen Kompetenzen müssen sie zusammenwirken, um das Streben nach Gerechtigkeit, Freiheit, Wahrheit, Menschenfreundlichkeit und Frieden im In- und Ausland zu fördern.
Macht und Herrschaft bei den Mauren der westlichen Sahara
Authors: Oßwald Rainer
Published: December 2024

In Islamic law, the appointment of a ruler is considered obligatory. Despite Morocco’s precarious sovereignty and the existence of semi-state entities in certain areas, the Moorish tribal society of the pre-colonial Western Sahara was characterised by a state of anarchy according to local legal scholarship. The subject of this study is the question of how this problem was dealt with, what solutions were found in theory and practice, and what controversies arose. In addition to European travelogues, relevant legal treatises serve as sources, supplemented by documents of all kinds that reflect the reality of life in this context.
Die Aneignung des Berges Namsan, 1890–1945
Authors: Biontino Juljan
Published: December 2024

This book traces the changes on Mount Namsan in Seoul between 1892, when the first Japanese Shintō shrine began operating in Seoul, until Korean independence in 1945, when the shrines on Namsan were dismantled. The Japanese Shintō shrines and Buddhist temples on Namsan mainly used rituals to educate the Korean population to become loyal subjects of the empire. Therefore, the rituals and events on the mountain are the main focus of this study. It is shown how State-Shintō, as it was realised in the colonial framework of Korea, differed from Shintō in Japan itself, which has recently been described as "imperial". Thus it is possible to shed new light on assimilation policies, scrutinizing alledged breaks and continuities.
Predicting Student Performance in Flipped Learning through Machine Learning Techniques: A Bibliometric Analysis with R
Authors: Vasiliki Ragazou , Konstantinos Antonis
Published: December 2024

Machine learning (ML) is an emerging field of study that utilizes data to enhance the learning process and optimize the learning environment. The primary goals of ML are to observe students’ activities and provide early predictions about their academic performance, with the aim of enhancing student retention. Furthermore, ML aims to provide personalized feedback and streamline the provision of support to pupils. A flipped classroom is an educational approach that integrates both physical and digital spaces, known as blended learning environments. Flipped classes often use learning management systems that provide access to recorded lectures and digital resources. This facilitates the collection of statistics on students’ interaction with these services. The present chapter used bibliometric analysis to examine the effect of ML in predicting students’ performance in flipped classes. Information was extracted from the Scopus database for the period of 2014–2024. The data were examined using the R statistical programming language and the Biblioshiny software. Through the use of this strategy, we are presented with possibilities to enhance our skills and expertise in the respective domain. The investigation reveals that ML systems provide automated data-driven formative feedback, which supports students’ self-regulation and enables instructors to identify areas and tactics for intervention and assistance.
Trichoscopy in the Diagnosis of Alopecia Areata
Authors: Todorova Lidiya
Published: December 2024

Alopecia areata (AA) is one of the most common hair loss disorders, with a prevalence of 0.1% - 0.2% of the general population. AA is regarded as a T-cell-mediated autoimmune condition characterized by non-scarring hair loss affecting only parts of the scalp, the entire scalp, or parts of the body. AA may manifest as a single episode or may have a relapsing course. Dermoscopy of the hair and scalp is known as trichoscopy. It is a useful method for diagnosing and monitoring hair and scalp disorders, as well as monitoring the effect of the applied treatment. The presence of exclamation mark hairs, black dots, triangular hairs, broken hairs, and pointed hairs in the alopecic patches indicates disease activity. One of the most common trichoscopic features of AA are the yellow dots - empty follicular openings filled with keratin and sebum. They predominate in long-standing, inactive diseases. Short vellus hairs are also common. The hair regrowth phase includes upright regrowing hairs and circle hairs. Diagnosis should be based on the coexistence of several trichoscopic findings rather than the presence of a single sign.
Beef Cattle
Authors: Hutu Ioan , William Onan Gary
Published: December 2024

The type of cattle feeding system significantly influences the final slaughter weight, degree of carcass fatness vs. muscle, and beef quality. Three basic systems, based on the age at which cattle are finished and marketed, include fattening calves, young cattle and bulls, and adult cattle (mainly cull cows). The level of daily energy intake, or plane of nutrition, affects the intensity of the fattening phase, with higher nutrient density diets yielding higher daily gains and increased gain efficiency. Longer finishing periods result in greater fat deposition and higher eating quality. Feeding strategies are classified as intensive, semi-intensive, and extensive. Housing options for finishing cattle include confinement, pasture, or a combined system. The choice of system depends on local resources and cattle genetics, with significant breed differences in maturity age, feed efficiency, weight gain rate, and market weight.
Overview of Groundwater Occurrence, Quality, and Challenges in Nigeria
Authors: Idris Tanko Adamu , Yola Lawan Auwalu , Darma Tijjani Rahama
Published: December 2024

In Nigeria, the hydrostratigraphy of the country governs groundwater resources, which follow the occurrence and patterns of the aquifers, aquitards, or aquicludes. The country has two major hydrogeological units: the basement rocks and sedimentary basins. These units possess distinct characteristics in terms of groundwater potential. The basement complex consists of crystalline rocks that lie beneath the sedimentary layers, characterized by weathered, jointed, sheared, or faulted formations. The sedimentary terrains are majorly subaquatic or subaerial areas. Groundwater resources have been identified and discussed on majorly these two geological types and especially as they occur in each of the eight hydrological units demarcated in the country. The chapter also discusses various cases of groundwater quality across the country and concludes by highlighting the challenges associated with groundwater exploitation and management.
Chat-GPT Feedback: Fostering Growth in English Writing Abilities among Students
Authors: Sekewael Mansye , Anaktototy Karolis
Published: December 2024

Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) in education has transformed traditional teaching by providing interactive and personalized learning opportunities. This study investigates the impact of Chat-GPT, an advanced language model, on improving English writing skills among 10 secondary school students in Ambon City, Maluku, Indonesia. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research incorporated qualitative interviews, surveys, and quantitative analysis of students’ writing portfolios to evaluate the effectiveness of AI-generated feedback. The results revealed that Chat-GPT significantly enhanced students’ writing skills through personalized, real-time feedback, which led to notable improvements in grammar, vocabulary, and self-editing capabilities. Principal component analysis (PCA) identified three key factors contributing to skill development: (1) overall improvement in writing quality, including better coherence and creativity; (2) technical proficiency in grammar, sentence structure, and editing; and (3) user satisfaction with the platform and the perceived value of its feedback. Furthermore, correlation analysis demonstrated a positive association between frequent Chat-GPT use and enhanced coherence and technical precision in written work. Qualitative feedback highlighted students’ appreciation for contextualized, interactive feedback and a preference for features supporting real-time collaboration. The study advocates for the responsible integration of AI in education to foster self-directed learning and improve linguistic competencies.
Dysphagia: Esophageal Motility Disorders and Advancement in Management
Authors: Ocheli Emmanuel
Published: December 2024

Motility disorder of the esophagus is a functional cause of dysphagia classified into primary and secondary motility disorders. While secondary causes of motility disturbances of the esophagus arise from some systemic conditions and their management including diagnostic and therapeutic approach which is outlined in standard medical textbooks. Primary motility disorders are either oropharngeal and esophageal motility disorders. Esophageal motility disorders, largely amenable to some surgical intervention include such conditions as achalasia, diffuse esophageal spasm (DES) and hypertensive lower esophageal sphincter. Dysphagia, chestpain, regurgitation and weight loss constitute the predominant symptomatology of motility disorders of the esophagus. There are few physical findings on examination. The main diagnostic tools in properly diagnosing this group of conditions include contrast esophagogram and high-resolution impedance manometry, which have revolutionized management decisions and expectations in terms of prognosis. Surgical treatment is more effective and longer-lasting than medical therapies. Laparoscopic esophagomyotomy, in addition to partial fundoplication, has proven to be more efficacious than other techniques. However, the recent introduction of peroral endoscopic myotomy is the new optimism in the treatment of this age-long disorder. Early, appropriate, and standardized management protocol can lead to resolution of symptoms and improvement in outlook.
Perspective Chapter: Metal Recycling – A Consequence of Modernity
Authors: Maldonado-Vega Maria
Published: December 2024

The Bronze Age, often referred to as a pivotal period for the proliferation of the use of metals in the manufacturing of tools and weapons, significantly contributed to the expansion of different human groups. In today’s globalized world, marked by social, technological, and geopolitical interactions, as well as economic developments, metals play a crucial role in differentiating economies. This is particularly evident in the extraction of precious metals, valued for their worth, as well as metals that are currently in demand for chip production. We are so accustomed to metals that they permeate our environments at home, school, work, and beyond. This chapter describes the beneficial and harmful characteristics of the primary metals used by humans. It focuses on lead and other widely used metals due to extensive applications and interaction in various human activities. The use of these metals have evolved from macromolecular applications to nanotechnology, with nanoparticles increasingly directed toward medical uses. Among the most outstanding of these applications are the precise targeting of tumor cells. However, the dispersion of metals, alongside other environmental toxins, poses significant challenges. Encouragingly, the use of plant filters has shown potential for remediation of sites impacted by metal extraction and accumulation.
Perspective Chapter: SDG 8; Social Entrepreneurship to Contribute to the Sustainable Development of a Community
Authors: Cruz-Ibarra Concepción
Published: December 2024

This is the story of an entrepreneur, how he started with a business idea, and how it was transformed over time. Like any entrepreneur, the interest was to do a business activity that would generate money, but even so, from the beginning, he always had a focus on social interest, that is, to participate in education and training issues, in the firm belief that the preparation of people will always bring organizational improvements. The approach of entrepreneurship from the beginning then had a focus on SDG 8: Decent work and economic growth based on quality education. It is methodologically described how the business was managed through stages and how the need to implement the administrative process for the company’s improvements was present. This is a business that is already around 25 years old. And it all starts with the idea of a person who works in the industrial sector, where he knows the IPC standards. IPC is a guiding tool for best practices in design, manufacturing, assembly, inspection of printed circuits, cables, connectors, solder supplies, testing, and more, which when applied help achieve high levels of quality, contributing to industry innovation.
Perspective Chapter: The Double Edge Sword – Modulations of Inflammatory Responses – Parasite Survival Strategy or Host Tolerance Mechanisms
Authors: Ahu Prah Diana , Mensah-Brown Henrietta , Aniweh Yaw , Nii Evans , Kafintu-Kwashie Anna A.
Published: December 2024

Parasite organisms, including Plasmodium, Toxoplasma, Leishmania, and Helminths, rely on the host for survival, causing considerable morbidity and mortality in endemic regions. It is generally acknowledged that the clinical symptoms associated with parasitic infection are driven in part by exuberant pro-inflammatory cytokines produced when the organism interacts with the host innate immune system. Consequently, the host has evolved immune regulatory responses to limit excessive pro-inflammatory responses in order to tolerate the damage caused by the parasite or avoid immune-mediated pathology. However, suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines appears to be detrimental to parasite removal, promoting pathogen persistence. Notably, parasites have also evolved strategies for exploiting the host’s inflammatory responses to limit immune elimination and cause chronic infections. Thus, modulation of the host inflammatory responses results in a permissive environment, protecting the host against immune-mediated tissue injury while simultaneously allowing the parasite to survive, complete its life cycle, and spread the infections. Host immune modifications following natural infections can be particularly challenging for vaccination efforts, especially in endemic regions. If the immune system of infrequently infected individuals adapts to frequent antigenic stimulation, with the immune cells becoming hypo responsive to further antigen stimulation, then even vaccination may fail to achieve the necessary protection.
Role of Progestins in Reproduction
Authors: Onyeso Godspower , David Japheth , Egwu Michael , Welcome Menizibeya
Published: December 2024

Progestins are artificial derivatives of the naturally occurring steroid progesterone and include most if not all, aspects of reproductive physiology and medicine. The functions of progestins are established in regulating menstruation, sustaining pregnancy, and treating infertility. This chapter provides detailed insights into the development, mechanism of action, classification of progestins, and their diverse roles in reproduction, with a particular focus on their roles in menstruation, ovulation, pregnancy, birth control, endometriosis, hormonal replacement therapy (HRT), and assisted reproductive technology (ART). The main discoveries indicate that progestins effectively control menstrual cycles, prevent premature ovulation, and facilitate the early maintenance of pregnancy. In contraceptive applications, they successfully inhibit ovulation and alter endometrial receptivity to prevent pregnancy. In treating endometriosis, progestins induce atrophy of endometrial lesions, providing significant symptom relief. In hormone replacement therapy (HRT), the effects of estrogen are regulated to alleviate symptoms of menopause and reduce the risk of endometrial hyperplasia. For ART, progestins enhance the conditions for successful embryo transfer and improve fertility outcomes. The overall recommendation is to continue progestin research to optimize their use in reproductive health, improve treatment protocols, and enhance patient outcomes, as that will help enhance the field of reproductive medicine.
Electrochemical Performance and Design Strategies of MXene-Based Supercapacitors
Authors: R.R. Gopi , Kadathamana Amritha , Varghese Jithin , Lugo Loredo Shadai , Cerdán-Pasarán Andrea , Pushpan Soorya , Hernández-Magallanes J.A. , K.C. Sanal
Published: December 2024

Supercapacitors, at the forefront of energy storage, bridge the gap between traditional capacitors and batteries, renowned for high power densities, rapid charge/discharge rates, and extended cycle life. MXenes, two-dimensional transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides, have emerged as promising supercapacitor electrode materials due to remarkable electrical conductivity and tunable surface properties. This chapter explores MXene-based supercapacitors, detailing synthesis methods, electrochemical performance, and potential applications. MXene-based supercapacitor performance, covering specific capacitance, energy density, power density, and cycling stability, is discussed. The chapter also addresses challenges in MXene-based supercapacitor development, including scalability, cost-effectiveness, and long-term stability, applications in portable electronics, wearables, and electric transportation. Providing a comprehensive overview, this chapter inspires further exploration and utilization of MXene-based supercapacitors for next-gen energy storage solutions.
Supervised Anomaly Detection with Attention
Authors: Hui Teo Tee , Liang Kok Chiang , Kit Ho Chee , Zhang Xinlong , Bowen Heng Jovan , Ren Guangming
Published: December 2024

This chapter presents a comprehensive overview of machinery fault detection systems, focusing on anomaly detection techniques. We begin by reviewing anomaly detection and highlighting its importance in identifying irregularities in machine behavior that may indicate potential failures. The discussion then transitions to the debate between supervised and unsupervised anomaly detection methods. We analyze the advantages of supervised anomaly detection, emphasizing its ability to use labeled datasets for improved accuracy and reliability in fault identification. We further explore the prediction of remaining useful life (RUL) using advanced techniques, specifically Temporal Convolution with Attention. This approach improves predictive capabilities by allowing the model to focus on relevant temporal patterns, providing more accurate RUL estimates, and facilitating proactive maintenance strategies. Finally, we introduce an embedded machine learning fault detection system for electric fan drives. This system integrates machine learning algorithms into the hardware, enabling real-time fault detection and monitoring, enhancing the electric fan drive’s operational reliability. These topics underscore the importance of advanced anomaly detection and predictive maintenance techniques in developing robust machine fault detection systems that improve operational efficiency and reduce downtime.
Interprofessional Collaboration to Enhance Contraceptive Uptake among School-Going Adolescents in South Africa
Authors: Mabusela Thabisa , Msutwana Nomawonga , Ngcobo-Sithole Magnolia
Published: December 2024

Sexually active school-going adolescents globally, though receiving some formal education regarding sex and contraceptives, are still lacking the specific knowledge needed for the correct uptake of contraceptives. It is also known that teenage pregnancy is driven by many aspects but mainly limited knowledge and inconsistent contraceptive use, the attitudes of healthcare professionals at Reproductive Health Centres, teenagers having limited options from which to choose and often stigmatisation they receive from being sexually active. There are several efforts that have been implemented to enhance contraceptive uptake among school-going teenagers globally. These efforts often involve collaboration among various stakeholders including government agencies, healthcare professionals, community-based organisations, non-governmental organisations, and educational institutions. This chapter reports on a study that was done in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, which aimed to explore the perceptions and expertise of midwives/nurses, teachers, and psychologists/counsellors regarding a collaboration that will enhance and improve contraceptive uptake by sexually active school-going adolescents. The interprofessional collaboration envisaged is of crucial importance to facilitate contraceptive use and limit pregnancy in this population group.
Single-Pixel Digital Holography using a Digital Micromirror Device
Authors: A. Araiza-Esquivel Ma. , Torres-García Misael , I. Ortiz-Esquivel Diana , Santos-Amador Armando , E. Balderas-Navarro Raúl , López-Martínez Alfonso , González-Hernández Humberto
Published: December 2024

This chapter explores into the single-pixel (SP) digital holography (DH) technique, which employs a SP detector and a digital micromirror device (DMD) as a spatial light modulator (SLM). By projecting phase-encoded sampling patterns through computer-generated holograms (CGH), the system effectively measures and corrects wavefront aberrations, allowing for precise recovery of both amplitude and phase information from the sample. Building upon the advantages of single-pixel imaging (SPI), DH has shown interesting potential in applications such as optical scanning holography. Recent advancements have focused on improving reconstruction accuracy by combining complex-encoded masks and PS techniques. In addition, considering the technique as an SP camera offers benefits over traditional 2D-pixel array sensors, opening the door to exploring new digital holographic methods and applications. This chapter provides the essential steps for applying the SP holography technique and highlights its potential applications.
Mid-Intensity 30.5 GHz Continuous Wave Exposure of Glioblastoma Organoids
Authors: Palego Cristiano , Hancock Christopher , Rampazzo Elena , Persano Luca , Casciati Arianna , Tanori Mirella , Mancuso Mariateresa , Merla Caterina
Published: December 2024

In this chapter, we delve into the therapeutic potential of 30.5 GHz millimeter waves on 3D glioblastoma organoids. We specifically investigated mild thermal radiation effects in the context of new emerging focused energy delivery and bioelectromagnetic approaches. Our in-house developed exposure system, coupled with a rigorous dosimetry protocol and extensive multi-physics modeling, supported biological endpoint evaluation in terms of transcriptional profiling, cell morphological changes, and cell phenotypic characterization. Crucially, the induced thermal effect was minimal, aligning closely with our simulation models and indicating the precise control of energy delivery. Notably, a 0.1 W power level enhanced the efficacy of Temozolomide, significantly increasing cell apoptosis while not affecting the differentiation status of glioblastoma organoid cells. This combination suggests a new avenue for glioblastoma treatment, leveraging millimeter wave-induced mechanisms that warrant further investigation. Our findings underscore the promise of this minimally invasive technique, offering a glimpse into future glioblastoma therapies.
Perspective Chapter: The Philosophy and Methodology of Six Sigma
Authors: Matorera Douglas
Published: December 2024

The chapter details the philosophy and the methodology of Six Sigma. Literature abounds with versions of Six Sigma and discourses on other quality management tools and models, frequently portraying the models as exclusive of each other. This chapter examines the philosophical underpinnings of Six Sigma and its methodological contrivances. The literature review stretched across specialist journals, blogs and texts. Ten quality specialists and six trainers/tutors within Six Sigma curriculum were engaged in qualitative discussions. Gathered data was treated synthetically within a continual comparative framework. Conspicuous observations were the migration of Six Sigma into the service industry accompanied by data science and data analytics. The use of control charts, check sheets, graphs, flowcharts, scatters, Pareto and Ishikawa processes stood at the centre of high-intensity users of Six Sigma. Six Sigma is used in a somewhat monolithic or dogmatic way by many. Failure to appreciate the symbiotic relationship among elements of Six Sigma, or within other models and between Six Sigma and other quality models, would attest to the need to improve conceptual, managerial and technical understanding of the value of Six Sigma in the pursuit of continual improvement, however measured. Further to this, it is recommendable that organisations deliberately embed quality training in their Learning and Development curriculum focusing on skilling more than on fulfilling external, or top-level imperatives.
Efficient Outlier Detection in High-Dimensional Data Using Unsupervised Machine Learning
Authors: Ginni Girish Reddy , Chakravarthy Dr. Srinivasa L.
Published: December 2024

A fundamental concept in data mining and ML is outlier detection. Outlier identification and clustering often work together, as identifying outliers can lead to better clustering. Most current research projects have focused primarily on outlier identification and clustering as separate aspects, but their close relationship needs to be explored. By considering this relationship, we can improve cluster quality while detecting outliers, providing dual benefits. We have proposed an unsupervised ML framework for efficiently detecting outliers in high-dimensional datasets. An objective function has been defined to enhance cluster compactness, which improves the outlier detection process. By improving the clustering process through problem transformation and enhanced K-Means, we can develop an integrated approach that achieves high-quality clustering and outlier identification simultaneously. We have introduced an algorithm called Learning-based Outlier Detection (LbOD), which is novel in its simultaneous approach to partition space, objective function, and cluster optimization. A prototype has been built to evaluate the proposed framework and algorithm's ability to discover outliers using multiple benchmark high-dimensional datasets. Our empirical study has shown that the LbOD algorithm outperforms many existing outlier detection methods.
Machine Learning for Cybersecurity: A Bibliometric Analysis from 2019 to 2023
Authors: Purnama Yulian , Asdlori A. , Ciptaningsih Eka Maya Sari Siswi , Kraugusteeliana Kraugusteeliana , Triayudi Agung , Rahim Robbi
Published: December 2024

With the increasing breadth and sophistication of cyber threats, machine learning must be integrated into cybersecurity. This study uses a bibliometric analysis on 427 documents from 2019 to 2023 to pinpoint current trends in machine learning applications for cybersecurity. An exponential 96.55 percent yearly growth in publications is shown by our analysis of data from the SCOPUS database, indicating a spike in research activity. We identify eminent journals like IEEE Access that are leading the way in dissemination, and active contributors like Sarker IH. Key research themes, including malware detection, Internet of Things ecosystems, network security, and model accuracy optimization, are revealed through the examination of keywords and semantic topics. The adoption of deep learning is a sign of technological progress. According to our findings, machine learning integration is widely used in cybersecurity for tasks like threat intelligence and infrastructure monitoring, to name just two. Availability improvements are still given priority by reliable automation. Due to the increase in cyber threats, machine learning is becoming a necessary skill rather than an add-on. This research sheds light on the groundbreaking findings and exponential trajectory that are transforming machine learning's application in cybersecurity. Machine learning is ushered into a new era of intelligent and flexible cyber defense systems, which implies that sustained innovation through international cooperation will be crucial. Our timely bibliometric analysis establishes a framework for future cybersecurity and machine learning research, as well as for technological advancement.
Using the Parasitic Element Method to Reduce the Mutual Coupling in the Design of (2x1) MIMO Triple-Band Antenna for 5G Wireless Transmission Application
Authors: Salih Ahmed Abdul-Kadhem , Nangir Mahdi
Published: December 2024

This study presents the design and analysis of a compact (72x46) mm2 broad-band printed MIMO (2x1) antenna. The antenna is intended to operate at frequencies (15.5-22.5-29.5) GHz and is specifically developed for wireless power transmission in fifth-generation (5G) applications. The MIMO antenna is fabricated on an FR4 substrate with an electronic conductivity (E) of 4.4, a height of 1.6mm, and a tand value of 0.025. The patch is designed in the form of a circular ring consisting of two large circles engraved on the front side of the FR4 material, the first with a radius of 12.999 mm from which a small circle with a radius of 10 mm is cut, and its center is 3 mm away from the large circle on the y-axis. The parasitic technique was used in this antenna to reduce the mutual coupling between two ports, which consist of 6 rectangular pieces that are hollow from the, inside to prevent the transmission of the wave from the first port to the second and vice versa, which causes the loss of transmitted energy. The design and simulation results of this MIMO antenna were achieved using the Cognitive Simulation Technology (CST) Microwave Studio software package version 2024. The simulation revealed that the S-parameter for the 2-port is below -17 dB, and the mutual coupling for these ports is significantly low, measuring less than -50 dB.