bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uncovering myths
Authors: Wischmann Masja Bentzen
Published: October 2024

In recent years, there has been a shift in heritage policies towards incorporating heritage communities and encouraging participatory practices. However, the concept of ‘community’ often possesses a romantic appeal, leading cultural workers to adopt the notion uncritically. The practice of engaging with communities should not be taken for granted. This contribution explores the very premise of community engagement, offering a critical reflection of the meanings we attach to the concepts of ‘community’ and ‘participation’.
Drawing from my field work experience in a Rotterdam community, the article evaluates my own rights and wrongs, exposing the necessity to broaden the understandings of 'community' and 'participation'. In order to foster a more socially engaged practice, it is essential to challenge one’s own assumptions and biases as cultural workers.
PERAN GURU DALAM MENGATASI KESULITAN BELAJAR SISWA
Authors: Laia Tuhosokhi
Published: October 2024

This research was motivated by students' lack of understanding of the material taught by the teacher. The purpose of this study is to describe the role of teachers in overcoming student learning. This type of research is a type of qualitative research with a descriptive approach. The results of the study found were the role of teachers in overcoming the learning difficulties of grade XI students of SMA Negeri 1 Amandraya that had played an active and effective role through motivation, facilitators, class managers and supervisors. This role of the teacher can help students on learning difficulties by providing understanding to their students. Suggestions: 1. It is recommended for the school to pay more attention to students who have difficulty in understanding learning, especially if the student is an outstanding student, perhaps with cooperation between the school such as the principal, teachers, staff and parents together to provide solutions or solutions to help overcome student learning difficulties. 2. For teachers, especially teachers of economics subjects, it is expected to further increase their role in overcoming student learning.
Digital transformation management in Georgian business: Growth strategies and competitive advantages
Authors: Goderdzishvili Bella , Rostiashvili Tamar , Soselia Maia , Podiashvili David , Chelidze Medea
Published: October 2024

Innovative development is one of the key factors in a company’s competitiveness. Ensuring a higher level of development and utilisation of the latest company technology is important and therefore the search for new methods is relevant. The study aimed to describe the current trends in digital business transformation in Georgia. The study analysed many different types of statistics describing both the state of digitalisation and innovative technologies in the country and the current describing the state of entrepreneurship. Based on the analysis, the study concluded that the situation with digital transformation in Georgia is improving, which correlates with the direction of development of enterprises. In Georgia, the government actively supports digital transformation through various initiatives aimed at developing digital infrastructure and offering e-services. This is evident in the level of existing projects in this area and the pace of change in the development of enterprises in the field of digitalisation. However, it is found that while the number of research and development institutions in the nation is rising, the expenditures (adjusted for inflation) are falling. New fintech businesses are starting to appear, providing cutting-edge services for online financing. Due to a mix of public policies, private funding, and international collaboration, Georgia is becoming progressively more digital. Nevertheless, the country needs to accelerate the pace of development of this area in companies, which indicates the need for more active stimulation of this area by the state. The findings of this study can be used to formulate both the company’s long-term development strategy and to create a state policy in this area
Analysis of the impact of the volumes of state commissioning on the economy’s availability of specialists in certain professions
Authors: Ponomarenko Volodymyr , Pysarchuk Oksana
Published: October 2024

In Ukraine, there are imbalances between the specialities of graduates of higher education institutions and the needs of the market, so the issue of studying the possibilities of state influence on increasing the popularity of strategically necessary professions for the development of the country through the state-commissioned education is relevant. The purpose of the study was to determine how changes in the volume of state orders affect the choice of professions and competitive scores, and to develop recommendations for optimising the national policy in the field of financing specialities important for the country’s economic development. Clustering of specialities by the number of applicants enrolled for training was carried out, trends in changes in clusters in dynamics for 2018-2023 were considered, forecast models for changes in the number of applicants for each of the clusters were constructed, and correlation dependencies were determined on the impact of changes in the volume of state orders on attracting capable applicants to the speciality. The results of clustering, the visualisation of which is carried out using graphical methods, to a certain extent determine the popularity of the relevant professions and specialisations among applicants, including the level of sensitivity of the choice of applicants to the influence of external factors. It was determined that fluctuations in the number of applicants in small specialities occur within 1% despite significant changes in the share of state-funded places financed by budgetary funds, but in the cluster of specialities with a large number of applicants, such fluctuations are within 10%. The practical significance of the study lies in the possibility of using the constructed models for each speciality to determine their sensitivity to the impact of changes in the amount of funding for state-commissioned education, which would optimise the distribution of financial resources for training specialists for sectors of the economy
IMPACT OF PUBLIC DEBT ON INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA (1990-2023)
Authors: Joseph Akinwumi Lola , Ogwuche D. David , Sunday E, Ologunla , Joseph Uloko
Published: October 2024

The challenges of a high debt portfolio with deficit infrastructural development have affected the needed economic development in Nigeria. The study analyzed the impact of public debt on infrastructural development in Nigeria. The scope of the study was taken from 1990 to 2023; secondary data were sourced from the Debt Management Bulletin and Central Bank of Nigeria Bulletin. ARDL model was used to analyze the data, and the result revealed that external debt had positive and significant impact on infrastructural development in the long run on   the other hand, the domestic debt had a negative but insignificant impact on infrastructural development in Nigeria which means that domestic if not well managed will lead to a decrease in infrastructural development in Nigeria. However, the ECT (-1) further revealed that the model is reliable with its value of (-0.522833) which shows that the model is converging. Based on the study's findings, it can be said that Nigeria uses its public debt to support infrastructural development. Nonetheless, to guarantee that infrastructural development in translate to economic growth in Nigeria, there is need for Government to constitute committee to properly monitor the implementation of loans collected. Therefore, any effort by Nigeria's government to boost infrastructural through infrastructural development by continuously using debt, especially external, should be steady make policy for proper monitoring of the implementation of the projects collected loans for. Similarly, Central of Bank of Nigeria, Federal Ministry of Finance and Federal Ministry of Works should ensure through projects tracking all capital projects are proper monitored of the implemented.
MIGRATION-REMITTANCE NEXUS IN A DEVELOPING COUNTRY: EVIDENCE FROM NIGERIA
Authors: Elijah Sunday , Hamzah Hanny Zurina
Published: October 2024

This study analyzed the relationship between migration and remittances in Nigeria. Employing the Autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model, this study empirically investigates the determinants of remittances on the inflows of remittance to Nigeria by employing time series data from the year 1977 up till 2018. Our findings validated the simple theoretical consideration which states that flow of remittances should be encouraged by chief macroeconomic determinants like exchange rate, rate of inflation and financial development. This study finds that these variables together played vital roles in influencing the inflows of remittance to Nigeria. Specifically, migration, inflation and exchange rate have significant impact and favorably encourage remittances inflows from abroad to Nigeria. On the contrary, remittances negatively responded to financial development. Furthermore, the relative significance of these determinants of remittances varies. Specifically, migration is more responsive compared to exchange rate and inflation because the elasticity is higher, also migration and exchange rate are found to have better statistical influence compared to inflation in Nigeria.
Análise de Desempenho do BEAST 1.10 em ambientes de HPC: Explorando CPU, GPU, Multi-GPU
Authors: Freire Guilherme , Coelho Micaella , Osthoff Carla , Ocaña Kary
Published: October 2024

Este trabalho apresenta um estudo de desempenho da aplicação de inferência bayesiana BEAST 1.10, acoplada à biblioteca de alto desempenho BEAGLE 3, em execuções realizadas nos nós do supercomputador Santos Dumont. Nos experimentos de filogenia, utilizamos dados genômicos do vírus da Dengue, sorotipo DENV-1, em formato XML. Analisamos a variabilidade do tamanho dos genomas, o chainLength e modelos evolutivos do BEAST 1.10, o número de threads e o ambiente computacional (CPU e GPU) do SDumont. Os resultados do estudo do desempenho do BEAST no BioInfo-Portal, possibilitam uma utilização mais eficiente dos recursos computacionais do SDumont, segundo os parâmetros alocados na submissão dos jobs.
Implantação e Avaliação de um Sistema de Monitoramento de Recursos Computacionais de Cluster: um enfoque em desenvolvimento sustentável
Authors: Emerique Vitor Torres , Lobato Fábio Manoel França , Silva Marcelino da Silva
Published: October 2024

A implantação do sistema de monitoramento computacional aprimora a gestão estratégica de recursos computacionais. A literatura apresenta diversas ferramentas para monitoramento, porém, há uma lacuna em relação a sistemas que utilizam o gerenciador de recursos OpenPBS. Este trabalho visa contribuir para o desenvolvimento sustentável da Amazônia legal implementando um sistema de monitoramento de recursos computacionais como ferramenta precursora para introdução do green computing no cluster alinhada ao Plano de Desenvolvimento Institucional de uma Instituição Federal de Ensino Superior localizada no coração da região Amazônica. A implantação bem-sucedida do monitoramento contribui para uma visão mais abrangente do sistema de alto desempenho, guiando a gestão estratégica deste importante ativo.
Estudo de Redes Multiestágios em presença de Multicast
Authors: Morais Caio Von Rondow , Nacif Jose , Ferreira Ricardo
Published: October 2024

As redes multiestágio são uma alternativa econômica, com um custo de O(n log(n)) em termos de elementos de chaveamento. No entanto, encontrar um roteamento válido nessas redes é um grande desafio. Uma solução possível é utilizar redes rearranjáveis, que podem ser reconfiguradas para conectar qualquer entrada a qualquer saída, reorganizando suas conexões internas para evitar bloqueios. No entanto, em aplicações reais, as conexões geralmente seguem um padrão multicast, o que torna o roteamento mais complexo, mesmo em redes rearranjáveis. Demonstramos que, embora a rede Benes seja amplamente reconhecida na literatura como a principal referência em redes rearranjáveis, ela perde essa propriedade na presença de multicast. Para contornar esse problema, exploramos redes Omega ou shuffle-exchange com estágios extras e mostramos que elas podem ser reorganizadas de maneira a evitar bloqueios. Como o espaço de busca de soluções é exponencial, utilizamos uma implementação em GPU, o que nos permitiu derivar algumas propriedades importantes. Também avaliamos algoritmos de aprendizado de máquina utilizando os dados gerados pela GPU. Finalmente, este estudo aponta novas direções para o desenvolvimento de redes rearranjáveis na presença de multicast.
Redução de Dimensionalidade para Árvores Aleatórias
Authors: Bueno Walter , Silva Olavo , Nacif José A. , Ferreira Ricardo
Published: October 2024

A redução de dimensionalidade pode simplificar os modelos de aprendizado de máquina, melhorando o desempenho computacional sem perda de informações relevantes. Este artigo investiga a aplicação de métodos de redução de dimensionalidade em conjuntos de dados utilizados para a construção de árvores aleatórias, uma técnica amplamente empregada em aprendizado de máquina. Foram analisadas várias abordagens, incluindo Análise de Componentes Principais (PCA), t-Distributed Stochastic Neighbor Embedding (t-SNE), técnicas de compressão com K-means e coeficiente Gini, avaliando os impactos nos modelos de árvores aleatórias. Os resultados indicam que é possível realizar a redução de dimensionalidade sem perdas na acurácia das árvores aleatórias. A implementação fez uso do pacote scikitlearn para as técnicas e a base dados sendo load digit. Os experimentos estão disponíveis em um repositório público. Utilizando K-means, obtivemos uma redução de 7,6 vezes no número de nodos das árvores preservando a acurácia.
Investment laws, challenges and prospects in Uganda
Authors: Jackline Asiimwe
Published: October 2024

Uganda has an investment regulatory framework in place. However, following the enactment of the Anti Homosexuality Act early 2024, many donors withdrew their financial support for government programs. This has led to high taxes to obtain revenue for financing government activities which has negatively affected both national and foreign investments. This has resulted into closure of some investments, while the remaining ones are struggling to survive. The other challenges include: corruption, lack of financial and technical knowhow, capacity among nationals, lack of law abiding culture and the gaps in the existing legal framework. The study recommends the utilization of existing portals to report corruption; investing in capacity building of nationals; use of the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) at the High Court Commercial Division, and use of the growing market. This study examines the investment laws, points out gaps, challenges, and prospects.
Magische Orte des Denkens
Authors: Vollbrecht Peter
Published: October 2024

A different approach to philosophy: the genius loci comes to life at 24 special places of thought for the essential existential themes of human existence. Where do we come from? Who are we? The history of ideas ranges from ancient Greece to the existentialist Parisian cafés of the 1950s. But what touches us, makes us strong, frightens or comforts us? Philosophical and literary authors open up perspectives from two and a half millennia. And finally, on our travels we encounter people and animals, plants and things – the world of which we are a part and which we share with others.
Populäre Musik im Kontext von Social Media-Kurzvideos
Authors: Geyer Carolin
Published: October 2024

Music appropriation in digital media culture is currently characterised by social media short videos, especially TikToks and Instagram Reels. This study explores the transformative influences of short videos on the musical message, based on the concept of digital mediamorphosis. The focus is on the appropriation of popular music in music-centric short videos and their impact on the contextualisation of the musical message. The video analysis presents findings on the intermedial interplay of image, text and sound. User-centred interviews reveal how users appropriate popular music through short videos. Three modes of appropriation of reception and two of production are outlined.
Trestnoprávna zodpovednosť manažéra kybernetickej bezpečnosti v českom a slovenskom právnom poriadku
Authors: Čentéš Jozef , Rampášek Michal
Published: October 2024

V článku autori venujú pozornosť manažérovi kybernetickej bezpečnosť (ďalej „CISO“ alebo „MKB“), zodpovednému za kybernetickú bezpečnosť v organizácii z hľadiska slovenského a českého právneho poriadku. V úvode článku sú charakterizované úlohy a zodpovednosť MKB pri riešení kybernetického bezpečnostného incidentu a vzťahu k štatutárnemu zástupcovi. V nasledujúcej časti článku sú analyzované vybrané prípady z USA, v ktorých bola voči manažérom právnických osôb (CISO, CEO) vyvodzovaná zodpovednosť pri riešení incidentu. V závere je analyzovaná trestnoprávna zodpovednosť MKB z pohľadu slovenského a českého právneho poriadku.
Optimized Calcium Hydroxylapatite Formulation and Its Injection Technique for Hand Rejuvenation: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Bartoletti Emanuele , Favaroni Alison , Cavalieri Loredana
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Hand rejuvenation treatment is in high demand in cosmetic medicine. Radiesse, a commercially available formulation of calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA), is a safe, biocompatible, and provides long-lasting results. Objective: We sought to retrospectively evaluate the efficacy and safety of our formulation of Radiesse and its injection procedure. Methods: We treated the hands of 58 women, employing Radiesse diluted with lidocaine. The treatment was performed using a blunt cannula following the proximal-to-distal fanning technique at 2 entry points on the dorsum of the hands. The patients received 1-4 treatments over a follow-up period of up to 5 years. Results: The hands of 58 women were evaluated using the Merz Hand Grading Scale (MHGS) and treated with our CaHA formulation. After the first treatment, 55 women (94.8%) achieved a 1-point improvement, and 19 patients (32.8%) did not receive further treatments, being satisfied with the results. The remaining 39 women (67.2%) received 2-4 follow-up treatments. At the end of the treatment(s), 46 women (79%) achieved a final improvement of 1 point, and 12 women (21%) a final improvement of 2 points. Three minor adverse events were registered. Conclusions: Radiesse diluted with lidocaine is an excellent choice for hand rejuvenation. Our formulation and technique proved to be safe and efficient. In our experience, a blunt cannula should be employed for optimal vein correction. The treatment was highly satisfying, although planning a second treatment during the 1-month follow-up visit is recommended to best achieve long-lasting results.
Ethical Responsibility of the Researcher as a Public Intellectual
Authors: Rendtorff Jacob Dahl ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: October 2024

This article presents a theory of the scientist and researcher as a public intellectual who contributes with political, social, and ethical justified opinions and views on the future of society. In recent discussions the figure of the activist researcher has emerged as subject to criticism by defenders of science as being objective and neutral about politics and value-claims. However, the restriction of science as separated from politics has also been a limitation of academic freedom. In this context, I propose a political theory of academic freedom that argues that it is a part of the intellectual duty and responsibility of modern researchers, scientists, and academics to formulate the ethical and political implications of their research. Such a theory is necessary due to the social and political challenges of contemporary society. The activist voice of the researcher can therefore be justified as an integrated part of academic freedom in contemporary society.
The Abuse of Expertise and the Problem with Public Economics
Authors: Barnes Gordon ,   Department of Philosophy, Florida State University
Published: October 2024

In recent decades, economists have played an active role in shaping public policy by publicly recommending the adoption of certain policies. These recommendations are often based on normative assumptions that are not the product of economic analysis; nor are they shared by the laypeople to whom these recommendations are made. Inducing people to adopt public policies for reasons that are neither the product of expertise, nor shared by the people, is a form of manipulation that violates the ideals of a liberal democratic society. Thus, the economists’ recommendations constitute an abuse of their expertise.
Design and Implementation of an Autonomous Wheelchair with Medical Kit Access Using Raspberry Pi
Authors: Y Narayana Murty , Rajasekhar K. , Babu Gidla Sudheer , Bhargavi S. N.
Published: October 2024

This paper presents an autonomous wheelchair system designed to enhance the mobility of elderly individuals and people with disabilities through advanced automation and artificial intelligence. Recognizing the importance of independent movement for promoting physical and psychological well-being, this system addresses the challenges faced by those with limited mobility. The wheelchair leverages various sensors to minimize the need for human intervention, thereby fostering autonomy and reducing reliance on caregivers. The system includes an Android interface connected via Bluetooth, allowing for intuitive user interaction and control. Utilizing Raspberry Pi technology, the research aims to create a reliable framework that can adapt to user needs through data processing and analysis. Additionally, the system enables effective communication through head-mounted support, allowing users to record and relay information. Ultimately, this autonomous wheelchair aims to improve mobility and confidence for individuals with disabilities while enhancing their overall independence and quality of life.
On new genera and species of crack-leg spiders (Araneae, Udubidae) from Madagascar
Authors: Henrard Arnaud , Griswold Charles , Jocqué Rudy
Published: October 2024

Two new genera, Tabiboka gen. nov. and Zorascar gen. nov., are described to accommodate five new Udubidae species from Madagascar: Tabiboka milleri gen. et sp. nov. (type species; ♂♀), T. milloti gen. et sp. nov. (♂♀), T. polotowae gen. et sp. nov. (♂♀), Zorascar pasunepipe gen. et sp. nov. (type species; ♂♀) and Z. pasunepomme gen. et sp. nov. (♀). In addition, two new species of Zorodictyna Strand, 1907 are described: Zorodictyna almae sp. nov. (♂♀) and Z. silvadavilae sp. nov. (♂♀). Uduba inhonesta Simon, 1906 is declared to be a junior synonym of Zorodictyna oswaldi (Lenz, 1891). The descriptions of the new species are complemented with a phylogenetic analysis to tentatively place them into an existing phylogenetic framework. Phylogenetic analyses based on COI and 16S rRNA genes and morphological data show that they are separate species and confirm their familial and supraspecific placement within the Udubidae. The new species are further described using high quality colored photographs, drawings, SEM and (for Zorascar gen. nov. ssp.) by the use of X-Ray micro-computed tomography to recreate virtual 3D models without destroying the original specimens. A dichotomous key to identify Malagasy Ububidae is provided. Whereas many undescribed Udubidae remain in Madagascar, the phylogenetic and generic arrangement that we present here succinctly summarizes the higher classification of Madagascar Udubidae.
The Success of Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (MARPE) in Adult Orthodontics: A Literature Review
Authors: Haek Fadi , Koghuashvili Natia , Dehrab Sinan
Published: October 2024

This literature review examines the success and effectiveness of Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (MARPE) in adult orthodontics. Traditional methods like Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (SARPE) have been commonly used for treating transverse maxillary deficiencies in adults, but they come with significant drawbacks, including higher biological and financial costs. MARPE, which utilizes mini screws to apply controlled forces for palatal expansion, offers a less invasive and more precise alternative. The review analyzes several studies and reports on MARPE's success in expanding skeletal and dental structures, improving respiratory function in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients, and minimizing complications like unwanted tooth movement. Despite some challenges, such as asymmetrical expansion, MARPE has demonstrated a high success rate in adult orthodontics and presents a promising treatment option. Further high-quality, long-term studies are recommended to optimize treatment protocols and evaluate potential risks.
The Implementation and Benefits of Telework in Various Sectors: Reality or Rhetoric?
Authors:   Doctoral School of Management, Bucharest University of Economic Studies, 010374, Bucharest, Romania, TUNCA Manuela Vasilica , FRĂȚICĂ DRAGOMIR Alina Mihaela , RĂDULESCU Raluca Mihaela
Published: October 2024

This article explores the concept of telework, defined as work performed outside the traditional office, using technology to accomplish professional tasks. Initially designed to meet the needs of continuous customer support and to foster technological advancement, telework has been widely adopted by organizations due to its benefits, such as increased productivity, reduced operational costs, decreased traffic, and lower pollution. However, studies have highlighted significant challenges, such as employee feelings of isolation and the lack of effective managerial strategies to ensure connectivity and efficiency in remote work. Furthermore, the inadequate preparation for both the implementation and ongoing support of telework programs has become obvious. This article examines the implementation of telework and its benefits across various HoReCa organizations well equipped with digital tools and platforms, aiming to determine whether it represents a tangible reality or merely a management rhetoric by highlighting, within SWOT analyses, the advantages and challenges associated with this transition brought about by the adoption of telework.
Unpaid Labor of Women in Barangay San Juan, Aliaga, Nueva Ecija Towards Sustainable Gender Equality Policy Reforms
Authors: Prudente Josephine , Pasquin Eric
Published: October 2024

Globally, women have been a critical part of every household and agricultural operation.  Despite their major contributions in the care economy in maintaining a healthy and sustainable food system, they remain largely invisible because, for a long time, economists depart from valuing unpaid work because of its non-economic value and social constructs. Barangay San Juan is one of the 26 barangays representing 7.47% of the total population of the municipality categorized by PhilAtlas (n.d.) as landlocked, referring to an area that is entirely surrounded by land. Before the agricultural mechanization, farmwomen in the barangay devoted 35 hours a week of unpaid care and 49 hours a week of unpaid farm work assisting the family in farm activities. The mechanization displaced farmwomen and deprived them of income opportunity while continuously providing domestic care to the family. This research aims to investigate the impact of unpaid labor for women in Barangay San Juan, Aliaga, and Nueva Ecija are adhering to Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG-5) by recognizing the value of unpaid work.  A triangulation approach was employed through a qualitative and descriptive design to assess the effects of unpaid work on gender equality, which revealed a significant amount of time devoted by women in the care economy, hence dismissing their economic opportunity in the labor market. The observed absence led to the proposal of operational gender education, governance in resource mobilization, and inclusion of gender perspectives in ordinances that are critical in achieving equality to increase value recognition of women's labor.
Distribution-Based Splitting of Datasets
Authors: Peter Timm , Kekec Dennis , Nelles Oliver
Published: October 2024

The problem of data splitting is discussed and two novel approaches to split datasets based on an efficient evaluation of estimated probability density functions (pdf) are introduced. Due to their structure, the approaches are capable of selecting subsets, that approximate the input point distribution of the original dataset. The first method fills the datasets alternatingly with data points. The second method allocates the points to the dataset with a probability proportional to their fit. Both approaches base on rough a simplistic way of evaluating pdfs, they are estimated using approximate kernel density estimation. Additionally, an subsequent optimization of the point distribution is introduced, which also relies on pdf estimation. Since datasets are split based on the point distribution of the original dataset, the estimation of pdfs presents a more sophisticated criterion to base a data splitting concept on, compared to existing procedures. In order to validate the functioning of the approaches, their performance is analyzed for two artificial datasets, comparing it to an existing method and the mean performance by random splits. Both approaches and the subsequent optimization lead, on average, to an improved performance. The first method shows the most promising performance improvement.
Surface Morphology Analysis of Graphene Transfer on SiO2 with BPA Aptasensor Detection using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Nur Insyirah Ahmad Shukri  , Norhayati Sabani  , Mohamad Faris Mohamad Fathil  , Syarifah Norfaezah Sabki  , Ruslinda A. Rahim  , Nur Hamidah Abdul Halim  , Nur Syakimah Ismail
Published: October 2024

Bisphenol A or BPA is one of the highest produced chemicals in the world. The production of polycarbonate plastic and epoxy resin are used to make variety of consumer goods and it is frequently employed BPA as a raw material. BPA is one of the endocrine disruptors which is related to a wide range of adverse health effects that can cause reproductive disorders and many kinds of cancers. In the work, the novelty of electrochemical sensor of BPA was constructed on a raphene modified electrode using graphene transfer method. In this work, High-power microscope and scanning electron microscopy were used to study the production and characterization of the graphene, with two significant mapping graphene at 20% and 80%. The existence of graphene on silicon oxide was analyzed using Raman Spectroscopy while the composition of the materials was analyze using Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. In this analysis, both analysis data from Raman and FTIR clearly shown that 80% mapping graphene is the best option which resulting to the high surface coverage. The electrochemical performance of the mapping 80% graphene electrode was examined using Electrochemical Impedance Spectra. The increase in charge transfer resistance (Rct) both before and after the addition of BPA denotes the development of the charge at the electrode surface. The equivalent circuit shows the Rct of graphene increased from 0.4 k Ω to 1.2 k Ω and drastically increased to 300 kΩ when the device was introduced with BPA due to the existence of a negative charge carrier and the repelling contact.
Photovoltaic Performance of Naphthol Blue Black Complexes and their Band Gap Energy
Authors: Harsasi Setyawati  , Irmina Kris Murwani  , Handoko Darmokoesoemo  , Ahmadi Jaya Permana
Published: October 2024

Along with the depletion of petroleum-based fuels, the development of renewable energy resources is a must. One of them is through DSSC (Dye Sensitized Solar Cells) technology, which has a dye sensitizer and semiconductor as the main components. The aim of this research is to investigating the photovoltaic performance of complexes series from metals (Mn(II); Fe(II); Co(II) and Ni(II)) and naphthol blue-black (NB) as a ligand. This investigation also successfully revealed factors that are highly influencing photovoltaic efficiency, namely the band-gap energy and the conductance of metal-NB complexes. The Fe(II)-NB complex has performed the highest photovoltaic activity as a result of the d-d electron transition and MLCT (Metal to Ligand Change Transfer) character which are covered by vivid color from the ligand. The bonding between metal and ligand was shown at a wavenumber of 316.33 cm-1 for M-N bonding and 486.06 cm-1 for M-O bonding. Fe(II)-NB complex had the narrowest band gap energy which is 5.86 eV and had the highest value of conductance and the highest efficiency, namely 0.0925%. This experiment successfully demonstrates that the narrower the energy gap of a molecule, the ability to transfer electrons is faster. Thus, the efficiency of the solar cell becomes higher. This investigation has proven that the narrow band gap makes the electron transfer becomes easier.
Physico-mechanical Properties of Nano Bio-films For Application in Food Packaging
Authors: S N Surip  , N S Nik Ahmad  , S H Kamarudin  , Abdullah
Published: October 2024

Petroleum-based packaging has long dominated the packaging industry, raising environmental concerns. As a result, the packaging industry has started using nano bio-plastics. Incorporating nanoparticles, nano bio-plastic packaging helps in prolonging product shelf life. Additionally, packaging manufactured of nano bio-plastic is made of biodegradable polymers. Nano bio-films made from polylactic acid (PLA) and nanoclay were produced using a solvent casting process. 1.0%, 3.0% and 5.0% (wt.) of nanoclay were added to the PLA solution. The mechanical, chemical, morphological and transparency properties of nano bio-films were investigated. To improve their suitability for food packaging applications, tensile test, Fourier-transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and UV-barrier test were performed. With tensile strength (TS) of 30.36 MPa and elongation at break (EAB) of 7.05%, respectively, nano bio-films with 3.0 wt. % nanoclay demonstrated higher mechanical properties than pure PLA film with about 35% of increment. In aspects of FTIR analysis, no significant differences were found with both nano bio-films and pure PLA film. The SEM morphology shows that adding nanoclay at 3.0 wt. % improves the adhesion between the PLA matrix and the nanoclay. The addition of nanoclay had a minimal impact on the PLA film's transparency, and it was interesting to see that nanoclay concentration of 1.0 wt. % and 3.0 wt. % had roughly the same light transmission values of 84.86% and 83.95%, respectively. According to the findings of this study, the PLA nano bio-film with 3.0 wt% nanoclay exhibits the optimum physico-mechanical properties.
Effect of Resin Content on the Properties of Roofing Tile for Building Materials
Authors: Kittisak Buasri  , Prayoon Surin
Published: October 2024

The production process of roofing tile materials uses among other materials thermosetting adhesive resins normally urea formaldehyde (UF), phenol formaldehyde (PF), di-isocyanate (PMDI) at various content mixtures, 3wt%, 5wt%, 7wt%, 9w% and 11wt% with a usual thickness of 6 mm. The fibers, adhesives, and other materials are then placed into a steel mold with the standard dimensions of 400 mm x 400 mm, to be then hydraulically pressed at high pressure and the required temperature. Overall, PMDI synthetic adhesives have better physical and mechanical properties than PF synthetic adhesives, however the thermal properties of UF and PF synthetic adhesives are better than PMDI. The physical properties testing were density, humidity content, absorption of water, thickness inflated and water permeability. The mechanical properties such as modulus of rupture (MOR) and modulus of elasticity (MOE), impact strength and tensile strength are all measured according to JIS A 5908-2003, ASTM D 256-2006a,TIS 535-2556 and ASTM D1037-12.The testing for the thermal conductivity, thermal resistivity and solar reflectance were done according to ASTM C177-2010 and ASTM E 891-87. The type of resin content and adhesive used had a significant impact on the physical, mechanical and thermal properties of the roofing tile materials of showed in the results of the analysis of variance (p >0.05). The produced roofing tile has an improved thermal conductivity and heat insulation which can be a substitute for hazardous asbestos based roofing materials.
Production of Low Temperature Synthetic Graphite
Authors: Anis Syafiqa Rosman  , Ranjitha Navalan  , Muhammad Mahyiddin Ramli  , Norizah Abd Karim  , Mohd Fairus Ahmad  , Shazlina Johari  , Norshamsuri Ali@Hashim  , Nurul Huda Osman
Published: October 2024

Synthetic graphite is a material consisting of graphitic carbon which has been obtained by graphitizing a non-graphitic carbon. The growth in demand, particularly in customizing properties for certain usage has brought about research on viable alternative, low-cost, and environmentally pleasant synthetic graphite production. Biomass wastes are amongst appealing carbon precursors which have been broadly checked out as replacement carbon for graphite production. This research aimed to synthesize synthetic graphite from oil palm trunks at low temperatures (500 °C, 400 °C and 300 °C) under controlled conditions to determine the physical properties and properties of the graphite obtained. After the heat treatment process, the obtained samples were then characterized by using XRD, SEM and RAMAN characterizations. Based on SEM and RAMAN characterization, it can be seen that graphite that undergoes a 500 °C pyrolysis process shows the best results compare to graphite that undergoes a pyrolysis process at the temperatures of 300 °C and 400 °C. The graphite flakes and the peaks obtained for 500 °C graphite are obviously present. For XRD characterization, the best samples at 500 °C were chosen to be characterized. From the results, the sample shows slight behavior imitating the commercialized graphite. Hence, from the characterizations of the samples, it can be concluded that the best synthetic graphite produced was from the oil palm trunks heated at 500 ° C.
Effect of Nano Particle Size on Mechanical and Fatigue Behavior of TiO2 Particular—Reinforced Aluminum Alloy Composites
Authors: Adil Abed Nayeeif  , Abbas A. Alasadi  , Hussain J. M. Alalkawi
Published: October 2024

Aluminum alloys are among the most widely used materials in the parts and vehicle sectors due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and qualities such as higher corrosion and wear resistance, as well as minimal thermal growth when compared to other metals. This research involved matrix alloy AA7075 aluminum reinforced with constant 7 wt. % TiO2 (with different particle sizes 30, 70, and 100 nm). The goal of this study is to improve the mechanical (impact strength and young modulus) and fatigue properties of AA7075 alloy-based metal matrix composites, and fatigue. AA7075 composites with a constant weight percentage of 7wt.% of TiO2 and variable particle size have been successfully synthesized by the stir casting route. Microstructural examinations revealed that nanocomposites with (30nm) particle size have better distribution and less porosity compared to the other particles size. The nanocomposite having 30 nm particle size was found to have maximum improvement UTS and YS in comparison with the other nanocomposites, 20.45%, and 12.87% respectively, and minimum elongation. An increase in particle size and fatigue results indicates the decreasing trend of fatigue life and strength. The higher endurance fatigue limit was recorded to be (23.875 MPa) for (30 nm) nanocomposite.
Q-switched Nd: YAG Fundamental and Second Harmonic Wavelengths Impact on Preparing Nb2O5 Thin Films by a PLD Technique: A Comparative study
Authors: Suhair R. Shafeeq  , Evan T. Salim  , Mohammed Jalal AbdulRazzaq
Published: October 2024

We aim to study and investigate the structural, optical, topographical, and morphological properties of Nb2O5 thin films deposited under vacuum Q-switched Nd: YAG pulsed laser for the first time to the best of our knowledge. The obtained results of this study can contribute in different fields of applications including the optoelectronic and biomedical fields. The fundamental (1064 nm) and the visible second harmonic (532 nm) wavelengths were utilized for this purpose. The laser energy was fixed at 657 mJ. The number of pulses and the substrate temperatures were 200 laser shots and 450 ºC, respectively. The observed X-ray diffraction patterns were assigned for T-Nb2O5 that refers to the orthorhombic and H-Nb2O5 which is related to the monoclinic phases supported by Raman spectra analyses. Nb2O5 thin film deposited by Nd: YAG fundamental wavelength (1064 nm) showed a thicker film, a higher surface roughness and, on average, a larger particles size It also provided better matching of the lattice d-spacing with the standard d-spacing obtained by JPCDs cards 00-030-0873 and 00-009-0372. The optical properties including the band gap values for both direct and indirect transitions were estimated with the lower gap was reported for the thin film prepared at the fundamental wavelength. The photoluminescence analyses supported that the transitions of both prepared films were indirect. FE-SEM clarified the surface morphology of each prepared film. The EDX analyses provided the elemental compositions and the purity of the Nb2O5 prepared films.
Adaptation To Changes In Coal Quality: Case Study At PT Paiton Energi (PE)
Authors: Prakoso Satyo Jati , Widayat Widayat , Suedy Sri Widodo Agung
Published: October 2024

This study discusses the coal conversion project undertaken by Paiton Energy (PE) in Indonesia in response to changes in coal supply. The root cause analysis method is used to systematically map PE case studies. The results show that PE has successfully adapted to changes in coal quality through the coal conversion project, but faces new challenges with the increasingly limited reserves of high-quality coal in the future. Therefore, further adaptation measures are needed to ensure the sustainability of power plant operations in the future.
The Influence of Perceived Organizational Support, Transformational Leadership, and Work Motivation on Teacher Performance at XYZ Elementary School, North Jakarta
Authors: Hennyta Violent , Sudibjo Niko
Published: October 2024

A school is an organization that operates in the field of education as a place where the learning process occurs for students to obtain education from teachers. Teachers at the forefront have an important role in advancing and improving services in schools. To support optimal performance, it is very important for a school leader to have strong organizational support, good abilities in managing the school, and able to increase and maintain teacher motivation. Researchers conducted to find out how perceived organizational support, transformational leadership, and work motivation influence teacher performance at SD XYZ North Jakarta. This research uses a quantitative research approach using the PLS-SEM method to analyze the influence of path coefficients on the variables studied. The respondents of this research were all 118 teachers at SD XYZ North Jakarta who filled out a survey using saturated sample data collection via the Google Form application. The data obtained was analyzed using SEM (Structural Equation Modeling) with the PLS 3.0 application. The results of this research show that perceived organizational support, transformational leadership, and work motivation have a positive effect on teacher performance.
Early Congenital Syphilis Presenting With A Rare Case Manifestation And Various Comorbidities: A Case Report
Authors: Wira Negara I Made Putra , Antari Anak Agung Ayu Windi , Sutarja N. Wisnu
Published: October 2024

Congenital syphilis (CS) cases in worldwide have reached 700.000 cases until 2023. Especially late or untreated cases can cause up to 80% of poor pregnancy outcomes. This case report discusses the treatment strategy of symptomatic CS case in a newborn with multiple comorbidities. A newborn female infant was admitted with cutaneous lesions comprising white patches with a bluish-red base, as well as jaundice. The patient was born to a single mother with a history of multiple partners and never had an antenatal care. The patient exhibited pale yellow stools with a putty-like consistency and dark-yellow urine. The patient was tachypnea (oxygen saturation of 86% on room air), exhibiting jaundice of the eyes and skin (Cramer IV). Laboratory results were positive for syphilis, severe thrombocytopenia (10×103/µL), hyperbilirubinemia with total bilirubin 18.89 mg/dL, direct bilirubin 11.81 mg/dL, and indirect bilirubin 7.08 mg/dL. Babygram suggested pneumonia, while 2-phase abdominal ultrasound showed impaired gallbladder contractility. The patient was diagnosed with CS, pneumonia neonatal, and cholestasis suspicious for biliary atresia. The patient was stabilized hemodynamically, administered intravenous fluids containing dextrose 10%, benzathine penicillin G 130,000 IU was administered intramuscularly every 24 hours (10 days) according to hospital availability for syphilis treatment, combination of cefoperazone-sulbactam and gentamicin for the treatment of pneumonia, and ursodeoxycholic-acid (UDCA) for the treatment of cholestasis. The patient's condition showed gradual improvement, with the skin lesions also demonstrating improvement, although jaundice persisted. In the last follow-up, due to stable condition, the patient was discharged to outpatient with continued oral UDCA therapy.
Challenges faced by head teachers in the management of students' indiscipline in secondary schools in Anambra State
Authors:   Nwafor Orizu College of Education Nsugbe, Anambra state, Nigeria, Umeji Ifeoma Chinyere
Published: October 2024

This study explores the challenges encountered by head teachers in managing students’ indiscipline in secondary schools in Anambra State, Nigeria. Using a descriptive research design, data were collected from head teachers through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The study revealed several challenges, including difficulties in identifying root causes of indiscipline, ensuring consistency in disciplinary actions, addressing peer pressure and social dynamics, and managing large class sizes. Despite these challenges, head teachers implemented various strategies to manage indiscipline, including fostering positive relationships, encouraging open communication channels, offering counseling and support services, and promoting student involvement in decision-making processes. The findings underscore the importance of proactive interventions and collaborative efforts among school stakeholders to address indiscipline effectively. This study contributes to the existing literature by providing insights into the unique challenges faced by head teachers in Anambra State and offers recommendations for improving disciplinary practices in secondary schools.
A-4 Step Chebyshev Based Multiderivative Direct Solver For Third Order Ordinary Differential Equations
Authors:   Bowen University, Iwo, Osun State, Nigeria, Ogunlaran O.M , Kehinde Michael Adeyinka ,   Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo, Nigeria
Published: October 2024

This paper develops and examines a uniform order, 4 step block method with Chebyshev series as bases function. Collocation and interpolation technique was used to modeled implicit discrete schemes from continuous scheme to derive our block. The block method obtained was of order 4. It is consistent, zero stable and consequently zero stable. The results obtained from four test problems shown that the method converges to exact solutions and perform better than some existing methods in the literatures.