Resumen: En esta investigación se analizaron las estrategias didácticas utilizadas por las personas docentes de Química de educación secundaria en Costa Rica, al abordar el tema configuración electrónica. El estudio se desarrolló bajo un enfoque mixto con predominancia cualitativa utilizando un diseño de tipo incrustado concurrente (CUAL-cuan). La información se recolectó durante los meses de septiembre y octubre de 2021 utilizando un cuestionario dirigido a las personas docentes, una encuesta dirigida a las personas estudiantes y la técnica de grupo focal. La población estudiada incluyó a 10 personas docentes y 150 personas estudiantes de cuatro instituciones educativas públicas de Costa Rica (Liceo Fernando Volio, Liceo Laboratorio de Liberia, Liceo UNESCO y Liceo Diurno de Río Frío). Se encontró que, durante la mediación pedagógica, las personas estudiantes experimentaron estados de ánimo positivos (motivación, emoción, diversión) y negativos (tensión, confusión) que incidieron en el proceso enseñanza-aprendizaje y que un alto porcentaje de las personas estudiantes afirmó comprender el tema configuración electrónica, así como percibir el propósito de las estrategias utilizadas. Se concluyó que el dominio conceptual de las personas docentes para abordar el tema configuración electrónica fue el adecuado y que las estrategias didácticas más empleadas por las personas docentes carecían de componentes dinámicos. Adicionalmente, se concluyó que las estrategias didácticas dinámicas (uso de simuladores, aplicaciones y plataformas web, entre otros) se consideran apropiadas para mejorar el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje, pero su implementación se ve limitada por la falta de capacitación y las restricciones de tiempo de las personas docentes.

Resumo: Nesta pesquisa, foram analisadas as estratégias didáticas utilizadas pelos professores de Química da educação secundária na Costa Rica ao abordar o tema da configuração eletrônica. O estudo foi desenvolvido sob uma abordagem mista, com predominância qualitativa, utilizando um design do tipo embutido concorrente (CUAL-cuan). As informações foram coletadas durante os meses de setembro e outubro de 2021, utilizando um questionário dirigido aos professores, uma pesquisa direcionada aos alunos e a técnica de grupo focal. A população estudada incluiu 10 professores e 150 alunos de quatro instituições públicas de ensino da Costa Rica (Liceu Fernando Volio, Liceu Laboratório de Liberia, Liceu UNESCO e Liceu Diurno de Río Frío). Constatou- se que, durante a mediação pedagógica, os alunos experimentaram estados de ânimo positivos (motivação, emoção, diversão) e negativos (tensão, confusão), que impactaram o processo de ensino-aprendizagem, e que uma alta porcentagem dos alunos afirmou compreender o tema da configuração eletrônica, além de perceber o propósito das estratégias utilizadas. Concluiu-se que o domínio conceitual dos professores para abordar o tema da configuração eletrônica foi adequado e que as estratégias didáticas mais empregadas pelos docentes careciam de componentes dinâmicos. Adicionalmente, concluiu-se que as estratégias didáticas dinâmicas (uso de simuladores, aplicativos e plataformas web, entre outros) são consideradas apropriadas para melhorar o processo de ensino-aprendizagem, mas sua implementação é limitada pela falta de capacitação e pelas restrições de tempo dos professores.

Abstract: This research analyzed the didactic strategies used by middle school education chemistry teachers in Costa Rica when addressing the topic of electronic configuration. The study was conducted under a mixed- methods approach, predominantly qualitative, using a concurrent embedded design (QUAL, quan). Information was collected during September and October 2021 using a questionnaire directed at teachers, a survey aimed at students, and the focus group technique. The studied population included 10 teachers and 150 students from four public educational institutions in Costa Rica (Liceo Fernando Volio, Liceo Laboratorio de Liberia, Liceo UNESCO, and Liceo Diurno de Río Frío). It was found that during the pedagogical mediation, students experienced positive emotional states (motivation, excitement, fun) and negative ones (tension, confusion), which affected the teaching-learning process. A high percentage of students reported understanding the topic of electronic configuration and perceived the purpose of the strategies used. It was concluded that the conceptual mastery of teachers when addressing the topic of electronic configuration was adequate and that the most commonly used didactic strategies lacked dynamic components. Additionally, it was concluded that dynamic didactic strategies (use of simulators, applications, and web platforms, among others) are considered appropriate for improving the teaching-learning process, but their implementation is limited by the lack of training and the time constraints faced by teachers.

Abstract Mapping is relevant for creating socio-territorial diagnostics as it allows an approach to public policies from the definitions, objectives, resources, and approaches they entail. This article contains and develops a mapping proposal as a theoretical-methodological tool that aims to contribute to the design, monitoring, and evaluation of social policies in four intermediate cities in the province of Córdoba, Argentina. The proposal is structured into five components: 1) policy selection; 2) description of dimensions; 3) data analysis; 4) systematization; and 5) scheme development. The authors consider mapping a strategy that can be included in instances of dialogue and negotiation and offer a dynamic image of state interventions regarding decision-making in the cities of Villa María, Villa Nueva, San Francisco, and Bell Ville in the province of Córdoba.

Resumen Los mapeos son relevantes para la creación de diagnósticos socio-territoriales ya que permiten un acercamiento a las políticas públicas desde las definiciones, objetivos, recursos y abordajes que suscitan. Este artículo contiene y desarrolla una propuesta de mapeo como herramienta teórico-metodológico que espera contribuir al diseño, seguimiento y evaluación de las políticas sociales en cuatro ciudades intermedias de la provincia de Córdoba, en Argentina. La propuesta se estructura en cinco componentes: 1) selección de políticas; 2) descripción de dimensiones; 3) análisis de datos; 4) sistematización; y 5) elaboración de esquema. Las autoras consideran que el mapeo es una estrategia que puede incluirse en las instancias de diálogo y negociación y ofrecer una imagen dinámica de las intervenciones estatales respecto a la toma de decisiones en las ciudades de Villa María, Villa Nueva, San Francisco y Bell Ville en la provincia de Córdoba.

Abstract:In Ecuador, structural engineers traditionally design structures by considering embedded bases and assuming infinite soil stiffness. This methodology does not accurately reflect reality, as soil deforms when subjected to external forces. The research is based on the hypothesis that including soil-structure interaction always reduces the seismic response. To test this hypothesis, a reinforced concrete frame building, rectangular in shape with four levels and typical of educational units, was analyzed. The study compared traditional analysis methods to those incorporating site-specific characteristics, using spectra from the seismic microzonation of Portoviejo. Specifically, spectra from microzones M2, M3, and M4, all classified as type D soil, were compared to the NEC-15 spectrum for type D soil. The effects of soil-structure interaction were included using ASCE 41 and Gazetas methodologies. This analysis determined the influence of soil-structure interaction, which is crucial for optimizing structures. Depending on the type of soil on which the analysis is conducted, the demand can significantly reduce or increase. For sites with greater rigidity (Microzones M2 and M3), seismic stresses will be reduced. Conversely, for soft soils (Microzone M4), seismic stresses will increase. Therefore, an analysis based on site characteristics, plus the inclusion of soil-structure interaction, should always be applied when designing a building.

Resumen:En el Ecuador tradicionalmente los ingenieros estructurales, diseñan las estructuras considerando bases empotradas, asumiendo rigidez infinita del suelo, lo que es una metodología poco apegada a la realidad, debido a que el suelo presenta deformaciones cuando es sometido a fuerzas externas, la investigación parte de la hipótesis de que la inclusión de la interacción suelo-estructura causa siempre la reducción de la respuesta sísmica, por lo que el estudio consideró un edificación aporticada de hormigón armado, de forma rectangular vista en planta, de cuatro niveles típica de unidades educativas, con la finalidad de que esta fuera sometida a análisis tradicionales frente a análisis con características propias de sitio, se utilizó espectros tomados de la microzonificación sísmica de Portoviejo, específicamente de las microzonas M2, M3 y M4 siendo estas clasificadas como suelo tipo D, frente al espectro de la NEC-15 para suelo D. Para la inclusión de los efectos interacción suelo-estructura se desarrolló bajo las metodologías del ASCE 41 y Gazetas, logrando así determinar la influencia de la interacción suelo-estructura, misma que es de suma importancia ya que permite la obtención de estructuras optimizadas, debido a que acorde al tipo de suelo sobre el cual se plantee el análisis, la demanda puede reducir como aumentar considerablemente, es decir para sitios con mayor rigidez (Microzona M2, M3) las solicitaciones sísmicas se reducirán. Para el caso de suelos blandos (Microzona M4) las solicitaciones sísmicas aumentarán, por esto un análisis basado en características propias de sitio más la inclusión del análisis interacción suelo-estructura debería siempre ser comprendido al momento de diseñar una edificación.

Abstract: This research proposes the tuning of a controller for a D-STATCOM distribution static synchronous compensator in order to improve the steady-state and dynamic state voltage profiles for a distribution network with the presence of distributed generation. In this study, a methodology is developed using the Power Factory-DigSILENT (DSL) simulation software and programming in the Python 3.6 environment, for the study, the IEEE 13-node test network is selected, which is an unbalanced distribution network and for the optimization process required in the methodology, the mean variance mapping heuristic optimization algorithm (MVMO) is used, in the case of the location of the FACT device in the test network, the bus with the highest load concentration is selected, the optimal location of the device according to any criterion is not addressed. This work focuses on the importance of using optimization techniques in the tuning of the parameters contained in a D-STATCOM controller, which allows to efficiently determine operating scenarios with voltage regulation that comply with the operating limits established by national regulations, making appropriate use of reactive power compensation in the operation of an electrical network.

Resumen: La presente investigación propone la sintonización de un controlador para un compensador síncrono estático de distribución D-STATCOM con el fin de mejorar los perfiles de voltaje en estado estacionario y estado dinámico para una red eléctrica de distribución con presencia de generación distribuida. En este estudio se desarrolla una metodología empleando de manera conjunta el software de simulación Power Factory-DigSILENT (DSL) y la programación en el entorno de Python 3.6, para el estudio, se selecciona la red de prueba IEEE de 13 nodos, que es una red de distribución desbalanceada y para el proceso de optimización requerido en la metodología , se utiliza el algoritmo de optimización heurística de mapeo de varianza media (MVMO), en el caso de la ubicación del dispositivo FACT en la red de prueba, se selecciona la barra con mayor concentración de carga, no se aborda la ubicación optima del dispositivo de acuerdo algún criterio especifico. Este trabajo se enfoca en la importancia del uso de técnicas de optimización en la sintonización de los parámetros que contiene el controlador de un D-STATCOM, lo que permite determinar de manera eficiente escenarios de operación con regulación de voltaje que cumplen con los límites operativos establecidos por la normativa nacional, haciendo un uso adecuado de la compensación de potencia reactiva en la operación de una red eléctrica.

Abstract This study investigates the thermal behavior of three lithium-ion battery configurations under thermal runaway conditions, focusing on cooling systems based on air, water, and phase change materials (PCM). The analysis was conducted using sixteen cylindrical 18650 cells, each with a capacity of 2.15 Ah. The battery arrangements include Geometry 1, characterized by an irregular rhomboid shape, and Geometry 2, which adopts an irregular octagonal shape. Numerical simulations were carried out using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) tools in ANSYS Fluent, employing a thermal abuse model rooted in a multidimensional, multiscale approach, and incorporating the empirical Newman-Tiedemann-Gauthier-Kim (NTGK) model. Transient simulations were performed under forced and natural convection scenarios to capture dynamic thermal behavior. The findings reveal that natural air cooling fails to prevent thermal runaway under the studied conditions. In contrast, water and PCM-based cooling systems effectively mitigate thermal runaway risks. Furthermore, forced convection with air and water significantly enhances thermal management and successfully prevents thermal runaway.

Resumen En este estudio se evalúa el comportamiento térmico ante condiciones de fuga térmica de tres arreglos de celdas de iones de litio con distintos sistemas de enfriamiento: aire, agua y material de cambio de fase (PCM). Se utilizaron 16 celdas cilíndricas de tipo 18650 con una capacidad de 2.15 Ah. La geometría 1 tiene una forma de rombo irregular, mientras que las geometrías 2 y 3 tienen una forma de un octágono irregular. Se implementaron simulaciones numéricas CFD empleando el software ANSYS Fluent mediante la aplicación del modelo de abuso térmico basado en un enfoque multidimensional multiescala y el modelo empírico NTGK. Se ejecutaron simulaciones transientes considerando convección forzada y natural. Los resultados muestran que, para las condiciones dadas en el estudio, el enfriamiento natural por aire no previene la fuga térmica, mientras que el agua y PCM sí la previenen, al igual que la convección forzada con aire y agua.

Abstract The continuous technological advancement transforms the way we interact, learn, and work. In the educational sphere, it generates the need for ongoing training for teachers in the use of methodologies, software, and educational tools with the aim of integrating technology into the teaching-learning process, adopting an Infopedagogical approach. In this context, the focus of this study is the analysis of the existing connection between teacher training and the creation of meaningful knowledge in students; hence, the challenge is taken to conceptualize, identify, and implement a training program with the collaboration of 67 educators from "Nuestra Señora de Pompeya" Educational Unit, centered on the implementation of a training program exclusively designed for this group of professionals, based on their training demands and framed comprehensively in five relevant technological tools. The dynamic interaction of teachers allowed assessing the usefulness and ease of use of technology in the educational context and understanding that ongoing training for educators become an essential element to address the demands of technological advances and strengthen daily pedagogical practice adapted to various educational contexts.

Resumen En el ámbito educativo, el continuo avance tecnológico transforma la manera en la que estudiantes interactúan, aprenden y trabajan. Esto genera la necesidad de formación continua en los docentes sobre el manejo de metodologías, software y herramientas educativas, con el objetivo de integrar la tecnología en el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje, adoptando un enfoque Infopedagógico. El centro de atención de este estudio fue el análisis de la conexión existente entre la formación del personal docente y la creación de conocimientos significativos en los educandos. Por ello, se asumió el reto de conceptualizar, identificar y ejecutar un programa de capacitación con la colaboración de 67 educadores de la Unidad Educativa "Nuestra Señora de Pompeya" centralizado en la implementación de un programa de capacitación diseñado exclusivamente para este grupo de profesionales, basado en sus demandas formativas y enmarcado de manera integral en cinco herramientas tecnológicas de relevancia. La interacción dinámica de los docentes permitió evaluar la utilidad-facilidad de uso de la tecnología en el ámbito educativo y comprender que la formación continua de los educadores se convierte en un elemento esencial para hacer frente a las exigencias de los avances tecnológicos y fortalecer la práctica pedagógica diaria adaptada a diversos contextos educativos.

Abstract This paper examines the Network of Health Professionals for the Right to Choose in the process of implementation of pregnancy terminations in Mendoza, Argentina, between 2018 and 2020. We focus on the rise of the Network and their coordination with the provincial government and on the impact of their interventions in abortion access within the public health system. Methodologically, a qualitative approach is used through case studies, combining a variety of sources of information: in-depth interviews, documentary analysis, and systematization of health indicators. The results show that between 2018 and 2020 there was an articulation between feminist activisms, health professionals, and state officials and civil servants. This enabled sustaining the implementation circuit of pregnancy terminations through a dynamic of institutional clandestinity, where practices and knowledge of feminist accompaniments converged with the precarious institutional framework of the health system. Within this framework, the Network became a fundamental actor in the development of interventions, connections, and mechanisms to guarantee access to pregnancy terminations.

Resumen En el presente artículo se examina el rol de la Red de Profesionales de la Salud por el Derecho a Decidir (Red) en el proceso de implementación de las interrupciones del embarazo en Mendoza, Argentina, entre los años 2018 y 2020. Para ello, nos centramos en el proceso de emergencia de la Red, en su articulación con el Estado provincial y en el impacto que tuvieron sus intervenciones en el acceso al aborto en el sistema de salud. Metodológicamente se emplea el enfoque cualitativo a través del estudio de casos, combinando diferentes fuentes de información: entrevistas en profundidad, análisis documental y sistematización de indicadores sanitarios. Los resultados muestran que entre 2018 y 2020 se produjo una articulación entre activismos feministas, profesionales de la salud y funcionarios y funcionarias estatales. Esto permitió sostener el circuito de implementación de interrupciones del embarazo a través de una dinámica de clandestinidad institucional donde confluyeron prácticas y saberes de los acompañamientos feministas con un precario entramado institucional del sistema de salud. En este marco, la Red se convirtió en un actor fundamental en el desarrollo de intervenciones, de conexiones y de dispositivos para garantizar el acceso a interrupciones del embarazo.

Abstract: The present study aims to analyze the covariational reasoning of students when solving tasks that involve functional relationships by conducting GeoGebra simulations of filling containers. The notions of mental action and levels of covariational reasoning are considered as a theoretical construct, and the case study as a research method. As a result, different strategies are identified to graphically represent the relationship between the height of water inside a container that changes shape, and the volume of water that enters it constantly. The strategies are related to student covariational reasoning and include using areas of geometric figures to relate both variables and construct a finite set of points in the plane to graphically represent functional relationships. In conclusion, the simulations performed with GeoGebra allow students to visualize how simultaneous changes occur between two variables, and thus recognize functional relationships as a dynamic covariation of variables.

Resumen: El presente estudio tiene por objetivo analizar el razonamiento covariacional de un estudiante al resolver tareas que involucran relaciones funcionales al simular con GeoGebra el llenado de recipientes. Se consideran las nociones de acción mental y de niveles de razonamiento covariacional como constructo teórico, y el estudio de caso como método de investigación. Como resultado, se identifican diferentes estrategias para representar gráficamente la relación entre la altura del agua dentro de un recipiente que cambia de forma, y el volumen de agua que ingresa de manera constante. Las estrategias guardan relación con el razonamiento covariacional del estudiante e incluyen utilizar áreas de figuras geométricas para relacionar ambas variables y construir un conjunto finito de puntos en el plano para representar gráficamente las relaciones funcionales. En conclusión, las simulaciones realizadas con GeoGebra posibilitan al estudiante una visualización de cómo se dan los cambios simultáneos entre dos variables, y con ello reconocer las relaciones funcionales como una covariación dinámica de variables.

In his 1925 paper describing the Taung Child fossil, Dart makes various assertions about the landscape around Taung, inferring past climate dynamics, and the role these factors play in the evolution of our early prehuman relatives. He argues that this region of southern Africa is dry today and has been for much of the Cenozoic. This notion of long-term aridity and stability has dominated perspectives on southern African landscape evolution. Here, we present a review of this field, starting with the foundational studies from the late 1890s, which underpin Dart's hypothesis. We examine the work of 20th-century researchers who developed models of landscape evolution; however, almost all of these models have been qualitative. With technological advancements, new quantitative techniques have emerged to provide evidence of landscape evolution events and to test previous models, and we present a brief overview of these methods. We call for reflection on the framing and languaging of many of these landscape models, specifically the 'African land surface' model. While the evidence of a homogeneous and stable landscape is continually being challenged through scientific advancement, this terminology is rooted in outdated colonial thinking. We also note that the key narratives that have driven research on landscape evolution have been largely shaped by selected prominent Western-based scientists. As we mark the centenary of the Taung discovery, we look toward a new era of landscape evolution research: one characterised by technological advancements and more diverse, local teams that will produce more quantitative, nuanced models for southern Africa and create richer, more dynamic backdrops for our own human evolution. SIGNIFICANCE: We provide a review of over 100 years of models used to characterise landscape evolution in southern Africa. We argue that it is essential to reconsider current models of landscape evolution and assess their relevance in the southern African context. With technological advancements, we must question whether these models remain applicable or require revision. As scientists, we should also re-evaluate the terminology used in scientific dialogue to ensure it accurately reflects evolving perspectives. Finally, while the use of qualitative and quantitative methods have their unique benefits, we consider the application of more quantitative methods of landscape dating to test the existing models and build new, more complex ones.

A recent study reveals that women predominantly make up global Christian congregations. However, because of religio-cultural influences - common to both the contemporary and New Testament worlds - the contributions of women often go unrealised. For instance, John 4:1-42 illustrates how Christ's response to the Samaritan woman prevented the suppression of her contributions to Christianity. This study utilises Osborne's theological analysis to examine John's proposed solutions to these challenges, as it explores how the theological and dynamic dimensions of narratives convey theological ideas. This approach enables readers to reconstruct John's theological perspective on women's roles in global Christianity. The findings suggest that an encounter with Jesus must transcend religio-cultural barriers that marginalise women, thereby enabling them to fulfil their divinely appointed roles within global Christianity. INTRADISCIPLINARY AND/OR INTERDISCIPLINARY IMPLICATIONS: The characterisation of the Samaritan woman's encounter with Jesus challenges gender-based marginalisation and redefines gendered roles in global Christianity. Therefore, the research intersects with missiology, sociology and anthropology.

RESUMO Este artigo tem por objetivo analisar as modificações na hierarquia de cidades da Região Nordeste do Brasil, a partir dos anos 1990. Para tanto, consideram-se as configurações e tendências da rede urbana do Nordeste, associando uma perspectiva diacrônica (dinâmica) sobre o comportamento da rede urbana a uma perspectiva sincrônica, relativa aos aspectos formais e funcionais que qualificam a hierarquia entre as cidades e à centralidade da oferta de determinados serviços. Metodologicamente, utilizam-se os indicadores relacionados à evolução da hierarquia urbana (níveis de centralidade) e ao volume de ativos financeiros para o conjunto dos municípios que pertencem à rede urbana regional. Conclui-se que a (re)estruturação da rede urbana e as tendências do desenvolvimento urbano-regional no Nordeste pós-1990 permitem captar diferentes dinâmicas econômico-espaciais, revelando “vários Nordestes urbanos”.

ABSTRACT This article aims to analyze changes in the hierarchy of cities in the Northeast region of Brazil, from the 1990s onwards. For this purpose, the configurations and trends of the urban network in the Northeast are considered, associating a diachronic (dynamic) perspective on the behavior of the urban network to a synchronic perspective, relative to the formal and functional aspects that qualify the hierarchy between cities and the centrality of the offer of certain services. Methodologically, indicators related to the evolution of the urban hierarchy (levels of centrality) and the volume of financial assets for the set of municipalities that belong to the regional urban network are used. It is concluded that the (re)structuring of the urban network and the urban-regional development trends in the Northeast, post-1990, allow us to capture different economic-spatial dynamics, revealing “several urban Northeasts”.

ABSTRACT Urban vitality is a quality that can play a role in the social sustainability of towns. However, this vitality is usually low in the urban sprawl of the new Latin American cities. Te article explores how the built environment relates to life in public space by using Mendoza, Argentina, as a case study. Using morphological analysis and observation of vitality in a sample of twelve residential units, parametric correlations and qualitative relationships are established. The results show that urban vitality is linked to greater population density, better integration of the road network and intimate urban spaces where homes have front gardens, all of which points out the importance of morphology in enhancing user presence. Nevertheless, this dynamic is more pronounced in the streets, since the squares are more independent from the built environment.

RESUMEN La vitalidad urbana es una cualidad que puede contribuir a la sustentabilidad social de las metrópolis. Sin embargo, en la nueva ciudad dispersa latinoame-ricana, dicha vitalidad tiende a ser baja. Tomando como caso de estudio Mendoza (Argentina), el artículo explora cómo se relaciona el entorno construido con la vida en el espacio público. Se utiliza el análisis morfológico y la observación de la vitalidad en una muestra de doce unidades residenciales, para establecer correlaciones paramétricas y relaciones de carácter cualitativo. Los resultados muestran que la vitalidad urbana está relacionada con una mayor densidad habitacional, con una mejor integración del viario con el entorno y con espacios urbanos íntimos cuyas viviendas posean antejardines, todo lo cual señala la importancia de la morfología de cara a potenciar la presencia de usuarios. No obstante, esta dinámica es más acusada en las calles, ya que las plazas se muestran más independientes del entorno construido.

Underground mining in high rock-stress environments can induce unanticipated dynamic rockmass deformation, posing a serious risk to the workforce. Data collected by seismic networks are imperative for the design-as-you-mine process. Often an inappropriate assessment of the seismic hazard is done when unnecessary data are included in analytical techniques, particularly short-term time frames. Depending on the methodology or application of data analysis and interpretation, some of the information may not be relevant and even detract from the objective. By using the spatial event clusters associated with active workplaces to define the shape and size of the polygons for data selection for subsequent analysis, a problematic subjective component can be eliminated. The mining of tabular reefs in South Africa, be they gold- or platinum group metals, is very extensive, and underground workplaces are often widespread. Production stoppages are very costly, especially for marginal mines, so there is just cause not to evacuate an entire operation's workforce following the occurrence of a large mining-induced seismic event. A rationale based on the damaging peak particle velocities (PPV) of the past seismicity can exclude the unaffected underground personnel and allow a quick orderly withdrawal where required. Micro-deformation may precede rockbursting, which can occur on-shift close to the workface. A mine-wide array of geophones suitable for the accurate location and analysis of seismicity may not be able to detect these higher-frequency emissions. Inexpensive but fit-for-purpose accelerometers, providing real-time, continuous measurement of acoustic rockmass deformation near the workplace, integrated through underground and surface communications networks, are shown to record 'rock-talk', clearly distinguishable from the instrument background noise, which can be in the order of hours leading up to an imminent damaging seismic event.

On 5 August 2014, the Orkney M5.5 earthquake, the largest in South African gold mining districts, occurred with an unusual strike-slip mechanism at great depth of 4.78 km below the surface. In a rare case, the M L 5.5 earthquake occurred within the area covered by the legacy 2D and 3D reflection seismic data acquired in the 1990s and 2000s for gold exploration and mine development. In addition, the earthquake ML 5.5 rupture plane was recorded and accurately delineated by the underground in-mine seismic network near the source region. The integration of the legacy 2D reflection seismic data and mine seismicity data allowed us to identify a near-vertical structure, striking northnorthwest-south southeast (NNW-SSE). The ICDP-DSeis team drilled three holes (Hole A, Hole B, and Hole C), and two holes (Hole B and Hole C), intersected the upper edges of the M L 5.5 rupture. These holes recovered metasediments, metabasalts, intrusive rocks including dolerite sills and lamprophyre dykes adjacent to the fault zone, and the fault gouge. Late Prof. Tullis Onstott and geomicrobiologists installed a packer in Hole A and successfully recovered saline water and detected gas (~10 MPa). Slip weakening and rupture propagation are significantly influenced by the existence of fault gouges and the production of wear material between two sliding rock surfaces. Using the fault gouge material recovered from Hole C, we conducted friction experiments under dry and room temperature conditions at high slip velocity of ~100 mm/s and normal stress of 2 MPa. The resulting steady-state frictional strength was ~0.66 over a slip weakening distance of ~9.1 m. The steady-state frictional strength was high, which may be caused by large gouge thickness, and the rate of wear generation. As a result, it is proposed that the Moab Khotsong ML 5.5 seismogenic zone is complex and could be controlled by three main processes: a) the complex structural architecture of the seismogenic zone (e.g., intersection of fault, lamprophyre dykes, and dolerite sills); b) the mechanical process induced by tectonic and/or mining related stresses; and c) the mechanical and chemical processes caused by the water and rock interaction.

This study investigates seismicity and rockburst control within the Merensky Reef and UG2 orebody of an intermediate-depth platinum mine located in South Africa's Bushveld Complex. Utilising a mine-wide seismic monitoring system, over 1,900 seismic events were recorded between April 2023 and May 2024, revealing complex seismic patterns driven by mining-induced stress changes. The largest event, with a magnitude of ML 2.0, underscores the seismic risks associated with mining at increasing depths. Key findings include the spatial and temporal variability of seismic events, with high seismic activity observed near pillars and geological structures. A significant portion of events correlated with pillar and foundation failures. Moment tensor analysis identified dominant failure modes, such as stress-driven fracture closures and dynamic pillar failures. To mitigate risks, the study emphasises advanced support system redesign and rockburst risk assessment using the rockburst damage potential (RDP) method. The research highlights the importance of monitoring, geotechnical compliance, and adaptive designs in enhancing safety and reducing seismic hazards in underground mining operations. The study applied the RDP framework, classifying damage across R1 to R5 scales, where most instances fell into low-risk categories (R1 and R3), indicating minor to moderate damage. However, data limitations and the tabular stoping method's complexity led to inconclusive results, highlighting the need for more robust data and customised risk assessment tools. Despite these challenges, the RDP approach provided valuable insights into rockburst mechanisms and the effectiveness of existing support systems.