bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epikur, Brief an Menoikeus - Edition, Übersetzung, Einleitung und Kommentar
Authors: Heßler Jan Erik
Published: December 2023

Der Brief an Menoikeus ist der zentrale Text für die Ethik des griechischen Philosophen Epikur und der einzige im Ganzen überlieferte auf diesem Teilgebiet seiner Lehre. Seine Bedeutung verdankt der Text nicht nur seinem Erhaltungszustand, sondern auch seinem Inhalt, umfasst er doch in knapper, verständlicher Form nahezu alle grundlegenden Richtlinien, die nach Epikur für ein Leben in Glückseligkeit entscheidend sind. Die vorliegende Arbeit bietet die erste textkritische Ausgabe des Briefs seit 40 Jahren, eine neue Übersetzung sowie eine umfassende wissenschaftliche Einleitung zu allgemeinen Aspekten epikureischer Literatur und speziellen Problemen des Briefs: Sie erläutert die Intention, die literarische und sprachliche Form sowie Themen des Briefs. Den größten Teil der Arbeit macht der erste ausführliche Kommentar zu dieser Schrift aus: Neben umfassenden sprachlichen und textkritischen Erläuterungen werden die Argumente des Briefs in das philosophische System des Kepos eingeordnet und Epikurs Auseinandersetzung mit anderen Autoren beleuchtet, besonders der philosophischen Konkurrenz. Vor allem aber findet erstmals Berücksichtigung, dass der Brief als eine Werbeschrift (protreptikos) bestimmten Gesetzen folgt, die Auswirkungen auf die sprachliche und inhaltliche Gestaltung haben: als Werbeschrift richtet sich der Text an jedermann und muss somit ohne Vorkenntnisse verständlich sein. All dies ermöglicht eine neue Perspektive auf Epikurs hier vorgestellte Ansichten u.a. über die Götter, den Tod, die Lust und das Leben des Weisen in Eudaimonie.
Recovery of Europium from E-Waste Using Redox Active Tetrathiotungstate Ligands
Authors: Perrin Marie , Dutheil Paul , Mougel Victor
Published: December 2023

Rare-earth elements, indispensable to our modern economy, are challenging to purify due to their chemical similarities. Here we introduce a strategy to recycle europium from e-waste, leveraging the redox non-innocence of tetrathiotungstate ligands, achieving its selective separation from energy-saving lamps under ambient conditions with separation factors uover 1000 and recovery efficiency as high as 99%, without pre-treatment of the waste.
Elucidating the Epitaxial Growth Mechanisms of Solution-Derived BiVO4 Thin Films Utilizing Rapid Thermal Annealing
Authors: Tu Guan-Zhu , Chen Jong-Yu , Li Yi , Chang Chia-Wei , Chang Wen-Jui , Zhen Zhong-Xian , Chen Hao Ming , Jiang Chang-Ming
Published: December 2023

Photoelectrochemical water splitting is regarded as a promising strategy for solar energy conversion. Nevertheless, the overall energy conversion efficiency achieved by metal oxide photoelectrodes has shown significant limitations because of their poor charge transport. In this regard, epitaxial BiVO4 thin film provides a suitable research platform for acquiring insights into the carrier dynamics and energy relaxation pathways. In this work, epitaxial BiVO4 thin films were prepared through a solution-based method combined with a rapid thermal annealing system. By systematically examining a series of annealing parameters, such as annealing temperature and heating ramp rate, and tracking the isothermal evolutions of epitaxial quality and film morphology, we establish a comprehensive model for transforming solution-derived BiVO4 films into epitaxial layers. In particular, the tendency of losing vanadium from BiVO4 at higher processing temperatures imposes an optimal annealing duration for obtaining highly compact films without pinholes. For BiVO4 films below 60 nm thickness, the solid-state epitaxial transformation is achieved in seconds; thicker films require a higher thermal budget and, thus, longer annealing times for the coarsening of heteroepitaxial grains to complete. The capability of this deposition method is exemplified by Mo- and Co-doped BiVO4 (001) films on YSZ (001), as well as the undoped BiVO4 (010) films grown on STO (001). The structural uniformities of these samples, prepared by the facile metal-organic decomposition method, are higher than the films prepared by vacuum-based techniques such as pulsed-laser deposition. We also identify the BiVO4 (010) film as more effective in harvesting photons from the solar spectrum than the BiVO4 (001) film. Taken together, this work expands the availability of functional oxide thin films with well- defined growth direction, opens avenues for studying fundamental charge transport mechanisms, and assists the design of more efficient photoelectrochemical energy conversion devices.
Mitigation measures to prevent delays in Construction Industry using 3D Printing
Authors: Adhikari Sanjeev , Katragadda Druthi , Langar Sandeep , Mosier Rachel
Published: December 2023

Project delays are a significant challenge that can significantly impact construction projects and have been a problem affecting construction projects for more than a century. 3D Printing can reduce the probability of project delays due to its ability to work in inaccessible areas, its greater product customization, minimized waste production, and its ability to print intricate designs. Therefore, given the capabilities of 3D Printing, the research aims to identify the advantages and limitations of 3D Printing Technology. These main causes are delaying the projects and finding a way to mitigate the project delays using 3D Printing Technology. The study used a survey methodology, the literature Review for the recently published papers on 3D Printing and Project Delays. As per this study, the main reason for the project delays are the inappropriate project schedule and labor issues, whereas 3D Printing helps finish the intricate designs, reduces human errors and greater customization makes this technology stand on top. Despite the benefits, this study also identified the barriers to implementing this technology on the construction site: high initial investment and unavailability of standard regulations and codes.
Using Technology as a Learning Tool: A Literature Review of Technology and Learning Outcomes
Authors: Miller Danica , Day Julia , Ruiz Shelby , Tafazzoli Mohammadsoroush Tommy
Published: December 2023

To enhance learning outcomes, and to deal with recent shifts in distance learning, instructors are constantly challenged to create more engaging educational content, increasingly so through online platforms. Gaps in how technology is viewed and utilized can cause frustrations in the classroom. Traditional teaching has focused on visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning styles (VAK); however, these methods are no longer meeting the dynamic engagement needs of students in higher education. Technology in the classroom has changed the way students and professors interact with the material presented, and educators have more ways than ever to adapt and improve communication of the material through learning management systems (LMS). This paper presents ways that higher-education instructors can create learning environments to foster understanding and curiosity, strategies to help students learn, and ways to bridge technological gaps in construction and architecture education. Through aa thematic literature review, this paper explores teaching and learning styles, strategies to help students, and differences between classroom and online learning. Findings from this review suggest the advances in technology for the classroom are changing the classroom landscape, including how in-class time can be spent, communication, assignment and assessment design, and the availability of resources for students.
Mapping Building Information Modeling Capabilities with the Information Needs of Studies of Domestic Arthropod Ecology
Authors: Xu Ping , Chambers Benjamin , Gao Xinghua
Published: December 2023

The presence of arthropods is a fact of life in most buildings. While many are innocuous, some may have negative impacts on human occupants’ health or economic well-being, like cockroaches, bed bugs, and pantry moths. Understanding the behavior and ecology of domestic arthropods is critical for indoor pest management and sustainability, and can support Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plans. Building Information Modeling (BIM) has the potential to serve as the data analysis and simulation platform for domestic arthropod studies. This research maps the current and potential functions of BIM to the needs of domestic arthropod studies, and conceptualizes a system architecture for a BIM-enabled simulation engine and platform for this purpose. This platform will contribute to the digitalization of structural IPM and will serve as an educational tool for professionals and students.
Physiological Metrics Across Construction Activity
Authors: Dasmajumder Sreemala , Clevenger Caroline , Abdallah Moatassem , Ghafoori Mahdi , Russell Mark
Published: December 2023

Safety management and occupational health are essential for construction work. Several studies examine the extent to which physical activity impacts the health and safety of construction workers. To date, however, few studies directly assess the impact of construction activities. This research analyzes physiological and environmental data to explore the impact of construction activity on individual workers, under a range of ambient conditions. Vital signs and physical indicators including heart rate, breathing rate, core temperature, physiological load, mechanical load and posture were collected from a relatively homogeneous set of US Air Force Academy cadets while performing four different construction activities. Results suggest average physiological measures (i.e. mean Heart Rate, Breathing Rate etc.) statistically vary by individual even for individuals similar in age, health, and fitness. Despite individual distinctions, statistical trends and patterns are observable across construction activities. Specifically, the results demonstrate that concrete and asphalt placement are generally more physically demanding, followed by, heavy equipment operation and surveying activities respectively. In addition, the ambient variable, Heat Index, plays a significant role and merits future research. The primary contribution of the research is to demonstrate a method for monitoring and assessing discrete physiological metrics across individuals as well as construction activity.
How the COVID-19 Pandemic Affected the U.S. Residential Construction Industry’s Labor Workforce: An Analysis of Interior vs. Exterior Trades in three Metropolitan Areas
Authors: Ellis Shannon , Valdes-Vasquez Rodolfo , Arneson Erin
Published: December 2023

The coronavirus disease has plagued the United States beginning in March 2020 and extending to today, leaving everyone uncertain. Governmental shutdowns, the spread of infection, and more than a million deaths have threatened communities and industries. The residential construction industry was not immune to these challenges. In particular, the residential construction industry contributes significantly to the United States’ economic health and growth, so it is crucial to understand this industry’s adversities during the pandemic. This study aims to understand the residential construction industry’s employment differences between different construction trades and different geographical areas pre-COVID-19 and during COVID-19. The geographical areas analyzed were three metropolitan areas in the U.S., including Miami, FL., Los Angeles, CA, and Columbus, OH. Six different trades were analyzed within these three metropolitan areas, consisting of three interior and three exterior trades. The results indicated an employment disparity amongst construction trades across different metropolitan areas. With this information, the residential construction industry may understand which trades and their geographical areas are more susceptible to employment hardships during economic and health downturns.
R3ER (Resilient, Equitable, Environmental, Energy efficiency, Rapid) Shelter Design
Authors: Khadka Alka , Walker Grant Richard , Yoon SooJin , Lewis Amy King
Published: December 2023

This research aims to provide the shelter design called R3ER (Resilient, Equitable, Environmental, Energy efficiency, Rapid) in a modularized based-3Dprinting construction method. The R3ER entails an energy-efficient design that showed a lower EUI compared to the benchmark EUI approved by ASHRAE Standards Committee. Additionally, the provided shelter R3ER has multiple uses such as disaster relief shelter, office, and hospital which can justify the environmental justice. Therefore, the R3ER will give stakeholders such as emergency planning commissions, third-party organizations, and construction managers/engineers a resource to maximize the non-monetary and monetary benefits of use of this type of shelter in their community. As a result, the communities would not only (1) be less exposed to disaster damage or less vulnerable to disaster impacts but also (2) ensure maximum utilization of the limited resources to reach out to a larger number of people who might be facing it.
Assessment of Physical Demand in Bridge Rehabilitation Work by Physiological Status Monitoring
Authors: Ghafoori Mahdi , Clevenger Caroline , Abdallah Moatassem , Rens Kevin
Published: December 2023

Transportation construction projects involve long working hours where workers are subjected to intensive tasks such as hard manual work and compulsive working postures. Physically demanding work can be fatiguing as well as alter the mental state, which may, in turn, lead to decreased productivity, poor judgement, and ultimately more accidents and injuries. Therefore, monitoring and controlling physical demand is of paramount importance to sustain productivity without undermining workers' safety and health. The objective of this study is to apply a non-intrusive system to monitor and assess the physical demand of transportation construction workers using the percentage of Heart Rate Reserve (%HRR) as a measure. For this study, five bridge maintenance workers volunteered to record their physiological metrics while performing various construction and maintenance tasks. The case study results showed that bridge maintenance workers had an average daily %HRR over %30 which according to the literature can be considered as having a “high” cardiovascular load during an eight hour working day. The primary contribution of this research is the assessment of the physical demands of transportation construction workers with respect to acceptable physiological thresholds and boundaries. The application of the present approach can support construction workers in preventing excessive cardiovascular overload.
Impact of Supplementary Cementitious Materials on Alkali-Silica Reactivity of Concrete
Authors: Akhnoukh Amin , Namian Mostafa , Skinner Preston , Elia Hala
Published: December 2023

Alkali-silica reactivity is a deleterious reaction initiated in concrete when aggregates silica reacts with alkali hydroxide in portland cement in the presence of moisture. The ASR results in the formation of expansive gel, which induces internal stresses in hardened concrete, and may lead to concrete cracking, spalling, and possibly structure failure. The main objective of this research is to investigate the impact of supplementary cementitious materials on the gel-formation and the possible use of SCMs in mitigating ASR damage on hardened concrete. In this research, different types of aggregates were used to pour ASR test specimens, and ASR mortar bar tests were conducted according to relevant ASTM specifications. Additional specimens were poured using different percentages of SCMs, mainly silica fume and class C fly ash, and ASR testing was repeated to assess the SCMs impact on ASR. The research outcomes showed that fine SCM particles used in concrete mixes can halt the concrete expansion due to ASR. SCMs efficiency in mitigating ASR is directly proportional to the SCM particle size. The successful use of SCMs in mixing concrete will reduce the rate of concrete deterioration, limit the need for maintenance, and reduce the life cycle cost of concrete construction projects.
Making, Curing, and Testing Concrete Cylinders in a Senior Level Construction Management Course
Authors: Plugge Warren
Published: December 2023

There are few studies which expand upon construction management pedagogical content to guide professors, especially new professors, in the creation and development of hands-on labs. This paper is a case study adding to the construction management body of knowledge to show engineering and construction management educators a framework on how laboratory exercises for making, curing, capping and testing concrete compression cylinders, based on the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) procedures, were developed and incorporated into a senior level construction management course. Included is a course history, description of the laboratory space and equipment and discussion of how the laboratory exercises relate to student learning. Numerical and graphical results of testing concrete cylinders at four different water-to- cement ratios are presented and discussed. Also, future opportunities for similar hands-on student laboratory exercises are identified and discussed.
Attentional Impact of Drones on Construction Sites
Authors: Albeaino Gilles , Jeelani Idris , Gheisari Masoud , Issa Raja R. A.
Published: December 2023

Drones are being widely deployed in construction, and the interaction between them and construction professionals is expected to increase even more in the future. However, the deployment of these aerial robots near construction professionals could be associated with additional risks affecting the safety and health of the workplace. This study explores the attentional impact of drone presence at different distances from construction professionals on the jobsite. Through a user-centered virtual reality-based experiment, construction professionals were asked to accomplish a construction task with the presence of drones while having their eye movement tracked. Results showed that the drone presence has an impact on participants’ attentional states and that these aerial robots have attracted some of the construction professionals’ attention. Participants’ attentional state was also impacted by the drone operational distance, with professionals in close proximity from the drone looking fewer at the aerial robot, and for shorter durations, as opposed to those located at a farther distance. The contributions of this study are to ensure safe human-drone interaction in construction by informing industry personnel of the potential safety impacts of drones on jobsites and assisting in the formalization of specific regulations for the use of aerial robots in the industry.
Development of a BIM-based Immersive Environment: Challenges and Lessons Learned
Authors: Adhikari Sanjeev , Westbrook Tyler , Meadati Pavankumar , Paes Daniel
Published: December 2023

Creating a Virtual Reality (VR) walkthrough from a 3D building information model leads to fewer mistakes and enhanced project visualization. Visualizing a 3D model in VR reveal errors not easily seen with Building Information Modeling (BIM) software. This process helps on limiting future change orders and rework, saving time and costs for both the contractor and the owner. Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) has capable of visualizing clash detection tools while walking around the model. IVR enables the user to walk around the model freely. This helps inspect any design errors and omissions and facilitates correcting them before drawings get issued for construction. The research objective is to assess the benefits of the Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) walkthrough compared to a 3D model alone. This study was conducted using the Oculus Rift S headset with hand controllers, Revit, and Enscape rendering software. The paper discusses the process used for creating VR walkthroughs through this low-cost but high-performance combination. This paper also discusses where the IVR was used to identify geometry and design mistakes and helped prepare the accurate as-built model.
Effective Use of a Digital Demonstrator for the Instruction of Laser Scanning
Authors: Kangisser Steven , Shankar Abhishek , Irizarry Javier
Published: December 2023

This research contributes to the understanding of digital demonstrators as a tool for classroom instruction in the use of laser scanners. Laser scanning technology plays an essential role in construction management. At the university level, students in this domain must demonstrate theoretical knowledge through hands-on exposure to laser scanning technology. Obtaining laser scanners requires a substantial capital investment as well as ongoing maintenance costs. This impedes the ability of many institutions to provide scanners for classroom use, resulting in a scarcity of such equipment and posing an instructional challenge. Use of digital demonstrators offers the potential to augment or replace a physical laser scanner in the classroom. For this study, researchers examined the current method of scanner instruction and developed a simulated scanner which functions as a digital demonstrator. The use of the demonstrator was subjected to mixed methods analysis using both undergraduate and graduate student subjects at the Georgia Institute of Technology. Testing concluded that integrating the digital demonstrator in the instruction workflow enhanced student learning and enabled those who used it to rapidly adapt to a physical scanner. The paper finally offers suggestions for further research including wider testing and examination of broader applications within STEM instruction.
La importancia de corregir por el sesgo de selección en el análisis de las brechas salariales por género: un estudio para Argentina, Brasil y México
Authors: Rubli Adrián
Published: December 2023

El estudio de las brechas salariales por género debe considerar el sesgo de selección, resultado de la decisión endógena de ingresar al mercado laboral. En caso de ser ignorado, este sesgo puede llevar a conclusiones erróneas con respecto al tamaño de las brechas y su evolución en el tiempo. Este trabajo analiza las brechas salariales en Argentina, Brasil y México en 2000 y 2008, y corrige el sesgo a partir del método de Heckman (1979). En particular, se explota el sexo del primogénito en la ecuación de selección para resolver el problema de identificación en la probabilidad de ingresar al mercado laboral. Los resultados indican un importante sesgo de selección positiva de diferente magnitud en el tiempo, en los tres países. Así, este trabajo resalta la importancia del problema de selección en la determinación de listas de rankeo de países, en cuanto a la equidad de género. Clasificación JEL: J16, J21, J71.
Mulher preta marajoara: a contextualização de sua identidade a partir da personagem Amélia de Dalcídio Jurandir
Authors: Brito Camila de Cássia
Published: December 2023

O presente estudo propôs-se a apresentar a (re)construção da identidade social da mulher negra marajoara a partir da caracterização da personagem de Dona Amélia de Dalcídio Jurandir no romance Chove n
Rats with Postinfarction Heart Failure: Effects of Propranolol Therapy on Intracellular Calcium Regulation and Left Ventricular Function
Authors: Hari Prasad Sonwani
Published: December 2023

Patients with heart failure may live longer if they receive chronic treatment with beta-adrenergic blocking medications. Unresolved are the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects and if they may be applied to ischemic heart failure. Rats (n = 28) underwent echocardiographic-Doppler exams one and six weeks following a simulated operation or myocardial infarction (MI). After the first echocardiography, rats were randomized to either no therapy or 500 mg/l of propranolol in their drinking water. The noninfected left ventricular (LV) papillary muscles were used to record isometric contractions and intracellular Ca transients simultaneously. Untreated MI rats had a restrictive LV diastolic filling pattern, decreased systolic function (13% ± 2%), and significant LV dilatation (10.6 ± 0.4 mm vs. 8.9 ± 0.3 mm, MI vs. control). The LV chamber diameters of the propranolol-treated MI rats were 10.6 ± 0.5 mm, and systolic performance (13% ± 2%). Higher LV end-diastolic pressures (27 ± 2 mmHg vs. 20 ± 3 mmHg) and a more constrained LV diastolic filling pattern (increased ratio of early to late filling velocities and faster E wave deceleration rate) were seen in the propranolol-treated animals. Papillary muscle contractility in untreated MI rats was lower (1.6 ± 0.3 g mm²). Furthermore, the inotropic response to isoproterenol was attenuated, and Ca transients were extended. During isoproterenol stimulation, beta-adrenergic blocking administration had no effect on force development (1.6 ± 0.3 g mm²) or the length of Ca transients. Rats with postinfarction heart failure receiving chronic propranolol treatment did not have improvements in systolic function or LV remodeling. Propranolol exacerbated LV diastolic pressures and filling patterns. Additionally, there was no discernible improvement in intracellular contractility following treatment, Calcium control, or beta-adrenergic sensitivity in the myocardium that is not infarcted).
Update on the Use of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Treatment of Various Infectious Diseases Including COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Khalid A Al-Anazi , Rehab Y Al-Ansari
Published: December 2023

Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and regenerative potentials. Additionally, utilization of MSCs in the clinical arena has been shown to be safe and well tolerated. Hence, this form of cellular therapy has gained particular attention in the treatment of several infectious disorders and their complications. MSCs have been successfully used in the treatment of the following infections and their complications: bacterial infections including complicated sepsis; viral infections including Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), hepatitis B and C viruses, and Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) complicated by acute respiratory distress syndrome; parasitic infections including schistosomiasis, malaria, and Chagas disease; and mycobacterial infections including tuberculosis. The use of MSCs derived from certain sources and Extracellular Vesicles (ECVs) derived from MSCs has improved their efficacy and reduced their side effects. However, the clinical application of MSCs in the treatment of several infectious diseases still faces real challenges that need to be resolved. The current status of MSCs and the controversies related to their utilization in various infections will be thoroughly discussed in this review.
Zero separation policy in small but stable neonates weighing 1500-2000 grams at birth: a single center study in New Delhi, India
Authors: Anand Rohit , Goel Srishti , Saxena Sugandha , Dubey Bhawna , Kumar Gunjana , Nangia Sushma
Published: December 2023

Background

Small but stable low birth weight (LBW) neonates have needs similar to babies of normal weight with the need for extra support with feeding and temperature maintenance. Most health facilities admit such infants in the neonatal unit leading to the separation of the mother and baby. This separation exposes the infant to a potentially contaminated environment of the Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) which is hazardous for stable infants (Invasive interventions, Intravenous alimentation, Infections) and also hampers the establishment of breastfeeding. This study evaluated short-term outcomes of stable neonates weighing 1500-2000 grams at birth cared for in the mother-baby unit in the same room. as their mothers as per the ‘Zero-separation Policy’.

Methods

Neonates born vaginally with a birth weight of 1500-2000 grams with stable vitals were moved with their mothers to a 12-bed ’’mother-baby unit (MBU)“. Mothers were counseled regarding breastfeeding (BF), Kangaroo mother care (KMC), maintenance of general hygiene, and identification of danger signs. Infants developing moderate to severe hypothermia, hypoglycemia, feed intolerance (FI), jaundice nearing exchange transfusion range, respiratory difficulty, sepsis, seizures, or apnea, were moved to a neonatal unit for further management.

Results

Over 3 years, 489 neonates with a mean (± SD) birth weight of 1738 ± 102 grams and median gestation of 34 weeks (range: 32-41 weeks) were cared for with their mothers at the MBU. Seventy percent of infants exclusively received their mother’s own milk on day 1, which increased to more than 95% from day 4 onwards. Similarly, two-thirds of the mothers provided KMC for at least 5-8 hours on day 1, increasing to 85% by day 5. Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia requiring treatment was the most common morbidity (28.8%), most of which was managed at the bedside, followed by hypoglycemia (4.7%). Only 8% of neonates (n= 39/489) required transfer to the neonatal unit, mostly for hypoglycemia and hyperbilirubinemia. No baby developed hypothermia, apnea, FI, seizures, or hemodynamic instability. Successful discharge to home was accomplished in all neonates with no mortality.

Conclusions

Zero-separation policy is feasible in clinically stable low-weight or small neonates (of 1500-2000 grams) who can be nurtured with their mothers right from birth, ensuring timely feeding, KMC, and good hygienic practices.
A small-scale ‘Development Impact Bond’ for hepatitis C diagnosis and treatment financing in Cameroon: the way to elimination?
Authors: Dieteren Charlotte Michèle , Boers Alexander Christiaan , Mossus Tatiana , Essomba Frida , Wafeu Guy , Agnouanang Berthe , Thomas William , Njoya Oudou , Coutihno Roel Arnold
Published: December 2023

Background

Many governments in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) have difficulties paying healthcare costs upfront leading to high out-of-pocket payments for patients. A Development Impact Bond (DIB) is an innovative financing mechanism in which pr ivate investors provide pre-payment of development program expenses. At the same time, public agencies or donors repay the investor’s investment with a reasonable interest rate if the program succeeds in delivering independently measurable results that are contractually agreed upon. This study assessed quantitatively and qualitatively the feasibility of a DIB for hepatitis C Virus (HCV) diagnosis and treatment in Cameroon.

Methods

A revolving fund of up to €230,000 was made available by the investor. The outcome payor reimbursed the investor only in case of good performance, defined as cured patients (HCV-RNA negative). HCV carriers who were identified were referred for treatment and tested for cure 12 weeks after completion of treatment, the outcome being validated by an independent assessor. The evaluation was guided by the six-agents model, involving interviews with relevant stakeholders (N= 22).

Results

In total, 253 (98%) patients completed treatment, of which 244 (96%) are cured at week 24. We estimated that the average per-patient outcome payment for HCV diagnosis and treatment is €1,542, and the average costs per treated patient is €1,858. The investor was fully repaid, including the agreed interest and bonus. Themes or findings from the interviews confirmed the feasibility of a DIB in a low-resource setting.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that a DIB can be a suitable financing mechanism for HCV services, supporting the path towards elimination. When governments in LMICs do not have sufficient resources to fund such elimination programs upfront, such public-private partnerships can offer a solution.
ROOTSTOCKS FOR SEEDLESS GRAPE VARIETIES: A REVIEW
Authors:   Federal State Budget Scientific Institution «North Caucasian Federal Scientific Center of Horticulture, Viticulture, Wine-making», Krasnodar, Russia, Marmorshtein Anna Aleksandrovna , Antonyan Anna Karenovna , Petrov Valeriy Semionovich ,   Federal State Budget Scientific Institution «North Caucasian Federal Scientific Center of Horticulture, Viticulture, Wine-making», Krasnodar, Russia
Published: December 2023

The article considers the issue of scion-rootstock combinations of seedless grape varieties in Russia and the world. The rootstock influences the physiological and biochemical parameters, stability, yield capacity and quality of the yield of grafted grape varieties. It is relevant to study the experience of different countries to determine the direction of research on this topic in Russia. In the world, the main research is concentrated predominantly in the countries producing table grapes: India, China, Egypt, Chile, Brazil, Greece, there are also studies from Mexico, Chile and Australia. Depending on the agro-climatic conditions, soils and terrain, appropriate rootstocks are used. High indicators of productivity, quality and resistance to stressors can be achieved in plants of the same variety on different rootstocks, for example, the yield capacity of the Thompson Seedless variety in Egypt is higher on the 1103 Paulsen rootstock, and quality indicators are higher on the Salt Creek rootstock. In Australia, the own-root variant had a higher fruitfulness of shoots, but Thompson Seedless variety grafted on Ramsey rootstock had higher yield capacity and bunch size. Scion-rootstock combinations are studied both for proven grape varieties and for new ones. Studies of variety-rootstock combinations in Russia are limited to individual works. The main rootstock for seedless varieties is Kober 5BB. Given the high role of rootstocks in increasing the abiotic and biotic stability of plantings, increasing productivity and improving the quality of grapes, the development of research in our country in the field of studying and effective use of rootstocks is relevant.
θέρμα, θέρμη (Phryn. Ecl. 304)
Authors: Merisio Elisa Nuria
Published: December 2023

This article collects the erudite texts on the nouns θέρμα and θέρμη and the ancient loci classici concerning them.
Akademik Öz Disiplin Ölçeğinin Türkçe’ye Uyarlanması: Geçerlik ve Güvenirlik Çalışması
Authors: ERDURAN TEKİN Özge , ŞAL Fatih
Published: December 2023

Bu çalışma Akademik Öz Disiplin Ölçeği’nin Türk kültüründe ki geçerlik ve güvenirliğini üniversite öğrencileri örnekleminde incelemeyi amaçlamaktadır. Araştırmanın çalışma grubunu ölçeğin dilsel eş geçerliğini, eşdeğer ölçek geçerliğini, yapı geçerliğini ve test tekrar test güvenirliğini inceleyebilmek amacıyla yaş aralıkları 18 ile 24 arasında değişen toplam 579 (289 kadın ve 290 erkek) üniversite öğrencisi oluşturmaktadır. Yapı geçerliği için yapılan doğrulayıcı faktör analizine göre ölçeğin orijinal halindeki gibi, planlı çalışma ve dikkat olmak üzere iki alt boyuttan oluşan yapısının doğrulandığı ve model uyum iyiliği indekslerinin kabul edilebilir uyuma işaret ettiği görülmektedir. Akademik Öz Disiplin Ölçeği’nin eşdeğer ölçek geçerliği Akademik Potansiyele Yönelik İnanç ve Duygular Ölçeği ile Akademik Öz Yeterlik Ölçeği’nden alınan puanların ilişkisine bakılarak ölçülmüş ve elde edilen puanlar arasında pozitif yönde yüksek ve anlamlı ilişkilerin var olduğu görülmüştür. Yapılan güvenirlik analizleri sonucunda Akademik Öz Disiplin Ölçeği’nin Cronbach alfa katsayısı .86 ve test-tekrar test güvenirliği analiz sonucunun .84 olduğu görülmüştür. T testi sonuçlarına bakıldığında ölçeğin ön ve son test puan ortalamaları arasında anlamlı miktarda bir farklılık olmadığı görülmüştür. Tüm bunlardan yola çıkarak Akademik Öz Disiplin Ölçeği’nin geçerli ve güvenilir bir ölçme aracı olduğu ve üniversite öğrencilerinin akademik öz disiplinlerini ölçmeye uygun olduğu söylenebilir.
Matematik Öğretmen Adaylarının Muhakeme Etme Öz Yeterlik İnançları Üzerine Bir Çalışma
Authors: ARSLAN Çiğdem , ÖZAYDIN Zeynep
Published: December 2023

Bu araştırmanın amacı matematik öğretmen adaylarının matematiksel muhakeme etme kavramına yönelik öz yeterlik inançlarını konu edinen bir değerlendirme yapmaktır. Bu amaç doğrultusunda öğretmen adaylarının matematiksel muhakeme etme öz yeterlik düzeyleri ve bir problemde yer alan matematiksel muhakeme etme göstergelerini belirleyebilme durumları arasında bir değerlendirme yapılmıştır. Araştırmada nicel araştırma yöntemlerinden biri olan tarama deseni kullanılmıştır. Araştırmanın çalışma grubunu 51 matematik öğretmen adayı oluşturmaktadır. Araştırmada kullanılan veri toplama araçları “Matematiksel Muhakeme Öz-Yeterlik Ölçeği”, “Matematiksel Muhakeme Etme Problemleri” ve “Matematiksel Muhakeme Etme Göstergeleri Tablosu” dur. Araştırmanın sonucunda, öğretmen adaylarının matematiksel muhakemeye yönelik öz yeterliklerinin ölçek ortalamasının üstünde olduğu ve öz yeterliklerinin yaratıcı düşünme alt boyutunda en düşük, ilişkilendirme alt boyutunda ise en yüksek olduğu belirlenmiştir. Öğretmen adayları matematik problemlerinde yer alan matematiksel muhakeme etme göstergelerini belirleyebilme açısından yeterince başarılı olamamışlardır. Bunlara ek olarak öğretmen adaylarının matematiksel muhakeme etme öz yeterlik düzeylerinin matematiksel muhakeme etme problemlerinde yer alan matematiksel muhakeme etme göstergelerini belirleyebilme durumları üzerinde istatistiksel olarak anlamlı bir etkisinin olduğu görülmüştür. Sonuç olarak öğretmen adaylarının matematiksel muhakeme etmelerinin desteklenmesi ve matematiksel muhakeme etmeye yönelik içsel inançlarının güçlendirilmesi onların ilgili alanda donanımlı birer öğretmen olmalarına katkı sağlayacaktır.
Relational Supervision: Jegnaship And Eldering As Emancipatory Pedagogy For Black Teacher Supervision
Authors: Strozier, Jr. Michael , Acosta Melanie M.
Published: December 2023

The case delves into the historical and cultural roots of African education, emphasizing the vital role of elders and community in the learning process. It examines the impact of African educational philosophies, particularly from the Nile and Niger river valleys, on the development of character, humanness, and spirituality. The case explores the adaptation of these philosophies by African people during the Middle Passage and their application in Western contexts for the supervision of African American teachers. By interweaving culture, history, education, and storytelling, the authors aim to highlight the unique contributions of African American educational experiences. They argue that these experiences provide valuable strategies for the liberation struggle and the transformation of Black teacher development. The case also explores contemporary issues in the teaching profession, such as the limited presence of African American educators, pedagogical negligence, and professional marginalization, proposing culturally-centered tools for community preservation and well-being. The central theme is the importance of relational supervision rooted in African and African American cultural knowledge, which is seen as key to nurturing Black novice teachers and fostering their professional development.
Kelekatan Orang Tua dan Kecerdasan Sosial pada Remaja Pondok Pesantren Modern
Authors: Heryadi Adi
Published: December 2023

This study aims to determine the relationship between the attachment of parents to the social intelligence of adolescent Miftahunnajah Modern Islamic Boarding School. Social intelligence becomes a very important thing because basically humans cannot live alone. Many activities in an individual's life are related to others. The many social phenomena that occur illustrate the increasingly eroding social intelligence in society. Weakening social sense and empathy also occur among adolescents.The research subject was students of the Modern Miftahunnajah Islamic Boarding School with the criteria of adolescents aged 10-22 years. The number of subjects in this study were 112 students. The sampling technique in this study used a simple random sampling. Data collection uses a scale that has been tested for validity and reliability. The scale of parental attachment in this study was based on three aspects of stickiness, namely trust, communication and alienation, which amounted to 41 items. The scale of social intelligence in this study is based on two aspects of social intelligence, namely social awareness and social facilities totaling 30 items. From the hypothesis test, it is known that the correlation coefficient (pearson correlation) is 0.376 and the significance level is 0.000. The significance level is smaller than 0.05 (p 0.05) so that it can be said that there is a significant relationship between the attachment of parents and social intelligence. The coefficient of determination on the two variables shows R square of 0.121 or equal to 12.1%. This value shows the effective contribution of parental attachments that contribute to parental intelligence is equal to 12.1% and 87.9% social intelligence is influenced by other factors
THE KASHMIR PROBLEM: INTERNATIONAL LEGAL PERSPECTIVE
Authors:   Institute of Oriental Studies, Russian Academy of Sciences (MOSCOW), Shaumyan Tatiana L.
Published: December 2023

A complex of political, economic and military-strategic problems arose on the territory of the former Principality of Jammu and Kashmir, which were accompanied by serious violations of human rights. The basis of the Kashmir dispute is the incompatibility of approaches to solving the fate of the Principality on the part of secularist India and Muslim Pakistan. for which the religious principle applied during the partition of British India in 1947 was identified with the ‘theory of two nations’. In the context of the first Indo-Pakistani conflict,Maharaja Hari Singh informed the Viceroy of India of the decision to join it, provided that article 370 on granting special rights to Jammu and Kashmir would be included in the text of the Constitution. The situation in Jammu and Kashmir is characterized by instability, movements of pro-Pakistani separatists, which caused three Indo-Pakistani wars. The issue of the situation in Kashmir is being discussed in the UN Commission on Human Rights, in human rights organizations, including Islamic ones, which insist on holding a plebiscite in Kashmir in order to ensure its citizens the right to choose between India and Pakistan. The Government of India has decided to actually liquidate the state and divide it into two union territories: Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, which come under the direct control of the center. The country’s leadership believes that the measures taken will contribute to strengthening the constitutional order of India, equalizing the rights of states and union territories.
ТЕНДЕНЦІЇ РОЗВИТКУ ЕЛЕКТРОННОЇ КОМЕРЦІЇ
Authors: Мацьків Г. , Райтер Н.
Published: December 2023

Статтю присвячено дослідженню сучасних тенденцій розвитку електронної комерції. Розглянуто сутність та характерні особливості електронної комерції як нового формату бізнесу в умовах сучасної інформатизації суспільства. Встановлено місце електронної комерції в структурі цифрової економіки як ефективного виду бізнесу, що допоможе забезпечити конкурентні переваги підприємствам за рахунок зменшення витрат на взаємодію, розширити ринки й сфери діяльності, проникнути на вже наявні ринки та виявити нові канали збуту, залучити нових клієнтів та поліпшити обслуговування старих клієнтів, досягти більшої мобільності та оперативності під час ухвалення управлінських рішень у межах єдиної комунікаційної системи. Визначено основні компоненти й види електронної торгівлі, що забезпечують її функціонування та зростання.

Досліджено стан і динаміку функціонування електронного ринку у світі та в Україні. Наведено дані стосовно обсягів електронної торгівлі та продажу найпопулярніших товарів через Інтернет-мережу. Перспективність та швидкий розвиток інтернет-торгівлі зумовлений тим, що при невеликих витратах на створення та функціонування підприємств з’являється доступ до значної кількості потенційних покупців, покращується інформаційна підтримка, автоматизується більшість процесів. Виділено низку чинників, які негативно впливають на розвиток інтернет-торгівлі, а саме: низька купівельна спроможність населення; невисокий рівень страхування ризиків інтернет-покупок; розвиток кіберзлочинності; недовіра до якості товару. Зосереджено увагу на бар’єрах для споживачів при купівлі в Інтернеті, до яких слід віднести сумніви в якості товару; очікування складностей при придбанні та поверненні товару; тривалість доставки продукції; побоювання шахрайства; проблема вибору надійного інтернет-магазину тощо.

Проведені дослідження свідчать, що на українському ринку інтернет-торгівлі працюють переважно компанії, які використовують такі бізнес-моделі, як електронний магазин (супермаркет), дошка оголошень, маркет-плейс та прайс-агрегатор або їх комбінації. Протягом останніх років найбільшою популярністю користуються дошки оголошень та маркет-плейси.

Встановлено, що ймовірні ризики під час здійснення бізнесу в глобальній мережі можливо знизити через підтримку захисту віртуальних трансакцій, врегулювання недосконалостей відповідної законодавчої бази на рівні країни. Висвітлено доцільність подальшого розростання електронної комерції в сучасних умовах інформатизації суспільства.
Advancing lifelong learning and professional development through ICT: insights from the 3L-Person 2023 workshop
Authors: Papadakis Stamatios J. , Семеріков Сергій Олексійович , Єчкало Юлія Володимирівна , Величко Владислав Євгенович , Вакалюк Тетяна Анатоліївна , Амеліна Світлана Миколаївна , Яцишин Анна Володимирівна , Мар’єнко Майя Володимирівна , Грищенко Світлана Миколаївна , Ткачук Вікторія Василівна
Published: December 2023

The 3L-Person 2023 workshop provided a unique forum for researchers and practitioners from diverse backgrounds to explore the multifaceted role of information and communication technologies (ICT) in lifelong learning and professional development. Held in Kryvyi Rih, Ukraine, on October 25, 2023, the workshop showcased 11 high-quality papers that addressed a wide range of topics, including: personal learning environment design, advanced ICT for professional retraining and training in the workplace, and blended and remote learning/teaching with emerging ICT. The workshop facilitated lively discussions and networking opportunities among participants, who shared their experiences and insights on the emerging trends and issues in this interdisciplinary field. This paper presents a comprehensive overview of the 3L-Person 2023 workshop, including its theme, aims, topics of interest, program committee, accepted papers, and key outcomes.
Permission in a Kelsenian Perspective
Authors: Ciabattoni Agata , Parent Xavier , Sartor Giovanni
Published: December 2023

Although permissions are of crucial importance in several settings, they have garnered less attention within the deontic logic community than obligations. In previous work we showed how to reconstruct deontic logic using Kelsen’s quasi-causal conception of norms, restricting ourselves to the notion of obligation. Here we extend the account to permission, and show how to analyse the notion of strong permission through a Kelsenian lens. In our framework various forms of conflicts between obligation and permission are disentangled.
Post-Pandemic Reflections from Sub-Saharan Africa: What We Know Now That We Wish We Knew Then
Authors: Oleribe Obinna O. , Taylor-Robinson Simon D. , Taylor-Robinson Andrew W.
Published: December 2023

The commonly heard aphorism about history repeating itself suggests an endless cycle of recurring events. However, George Santayana offered a similar sentiment when he said, "Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it". This emphasizes that the responsibility for the recurrence of events lies not with history itself, but with humanity. It underscores that if we desire change, it is our responsibility to initiate it, rather than attributing it to external forces such as fate, luck, or time. With this thought in mind, here we offer a narrative view from sub-Saharan Africa, focusing primarily on our own experiences in Nigeria and Uganda, on what harsh lessons can be learnt from the COVID-19 pandemic regarding emergency preparedness to respond effectively to the next major infectious disease outbreak. Four strategies are suggested, the implementation of which may contribute substantially to safeguarding against an experience similar to the catastrophic public health, social and economic costs borne by African nations during COVID-19 and in its immediate aftermath.