bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Synergetic Approach of Agricultural Waste Management through vermicomposting
Authors: Neeraj Rani  , Harpreet Kaur
Published: April 2024

The present study was conducted to investigate the vermicomposting potential of epigeic earthworm, Eisenia foetida for rice straw and cow dung. The experiment comprised of ten treatments T1 - [Chopped Rice straw + cow dung (1:1)] + 1kg worm), T2 - [Unchopped Rice straw + cow dung (1:1)] + 1kg worm), T3 - [Chopped Rice straw + cow dung (1:1)] + 2kg worm), T4 - [Unchopped Rice straw + cow dung (1:1)]+ 2kg worm), T5 - [Chopped Rice straw (70%) + soil (10%) + cow dung (20%) + 1kg worm], T6 - [unchopped Rice straw (70%) + soil (10%) + cow dung (20%) + 1kg worm], T7 - [Chopped Rice straw (70%) + soil (10%) + cow dung (20%) + 2kg worm], T8 - [Unchopped Rice straw (70%) + soil (10%) + cow dung (20%) + 2kg worm], T9 - [cow dung + 1kg worm] and T10 - [cow dung only], single replicate arranged in a randomized block design. The experimental results revealed that out of all the treatments, higher values of N, P and K were observed in T7 - Chopped Rice straw (70%) + soil (10%) + cow dung (20%) + 2 kg worm. The micronutrient content was also found higher in this treatment with higher biomass production. The multiplication of earthworms was significantly higher than only cow dung and other treatments. The vermicompost produced can be of significant value to the end users like farmers for replacement of chemical fertilizers and procuring better prices for the organic produce using such composting material locally available at much lower cost. Vermicomposting might prove to be a positive approach towards sustainable waste management system.
A review of agroforestry as a sustainable and resilient agriculture
Authors: Raihan Asif
Published: April 2024

The agricultural sector is confronted with the formidable challenge of providing sustenance for a global population of 9 billion individuals by the year 2050, all the while mitigating adverse ecological and societal impacts. An attempt to address this difficulty has been made through the implementation of organic farming practices, which have yielded predominantly favorable results. Nevertheless, there are still certain obstacles that need to be addressed. Organic agricultural practices exhibit lower yields compared to conventional methods, while concerns persist regarding greenhouse gas emissions and fertilizer leaching. This paper provides an overview of existing organic and conventional agriculture systems and proposes that agroforestry, a deliberate integration of trees and shrubs with crops or livestock, may represent a promising avenue for advancing sustainable agriculture. Agroforestry possesses the capacity to sustain productivity and concurrently provide many ecosystem services through the use of nature-inspired methods. This study presents an overview of the prevalent methods and products associated with agroforestry, while also highlighting the positive environmental and social impacts it brings about. The present study aims to examine the obstacles encountered in the implementation of agroforestry practices and to suggest potential strategies for policy modification that could enhance the uptake of such practices among farmers. The findings of this review study indicate that agroforestry emerges as a very effective land use strategy for addressing both food security and environmental degradation concerns.
Urinary outputs of nickel in association with their concentration levels in water, soil, and selected foods among farmers in the industrial estate of district swabi
Authors: Ijaz Ahmad  , Niamat Ullah  , Zia-ud-Din
Published: April 2024

Diet is the main route of exposure to trace metals, so the assessment risk of these elements to human via dietary intake is important. The non-carcinogenic health risk of Nickel (Ni) to the farmers via dietary intake in the Gadoon Amazai Industrial Estate (GAIE) Swabi of Kyber Pakhtunkwa was assessed. A cross sectional study was carried out in the GAIE to estimate the concentration of Nickel in all types of vegetables, grains, drinking water, irrigation water, soil and in urine of the farmers. A total of 22 farmers, living within the 2km distance in all four directions were selected and enrolled in the study after signing consent form. Atomic absorption spectrophotometer was used for the Ni analysis in the collected samples of water (both drinking and irrigation water), soil, foods and in urine of farmers. Results shows that the mean age of the farmers using tube well water and wastewater for irrigation purposes was 43.5±21.01 and 44.75±16.44 years, height was 167.6±3.7 and 165.75±6.02 cm, weight was 61±12.52 and 64.75±9.63 kg and BMI was 21.65±3.73 and 23.7±4.4 respectively. The concentration of the Ni in the wastewater irrigated field was significantly higher than the tube well irrigated field. The mean concentration of Ni in the soil irrigated with wastewater was 123.50±54.74 mg/kg respectively and in the tube-well irrigated field was 54.25±10.14 mg/kg. The Ni concentration in the wastewater irrigated garlic, fodder grass, potato, wheat and maize were 9.15±0.50 mg/kg, 8.82±1.30mg/kg, 7.70±1.04mg/kg and 7.56±1.24mg/kg respectively compared to tube-well irrigated land i.e., 0.97±0.25 mg/kg, 0.64±0.42 mg/kg, 1.08±0.35 mg/kg, 1.05±0.013 mg/kg and 1.02±0.39 mg/kg. A positive correlation was observed between the water, soil, and all crops grown in the GAIE . The bio-accumulation factor was higher for Ni in both the site. The Hazzard Quotient (HQ) for Ni exceeded the 1 for crops irrigated with industrial wastewater compared with tube-well irrigated crops and thus pose adverse health affect to farmers health. This study concluded that a strong association was evident between the Ni concentration in crops and cereals and waste-water irrigation.
Tree diversity and regeneration dynamics toward forest conservation and environmental sustainability: A case study from Nawabganj Sal Forest, Bangladesh
Authors: Jubair Abu Naser Md. , Rahman Md. Shoaibur , Sarmin Israt Jahan , Raihan Asif
Published: April 2024

The objective of this study was to examine the regeneration dynamics and population structure of the most prevalent tree species, Shorea robusta (Sal), alongside four other dominant tree species (Tectona grandis, Syzygium cumini, Trema orientale, and Cassia fistula) in the Nawabganj Sal Forest in Bangladesh. The regeneration status and tree diversity of all documented tree species were assessed using a simple random sampling technique. Among the 30 species, 5 species (Shorea robusta, Tectona grandis, Trema orientale, Gmelina arborea, and Artocarpus heterophyllus) exhibited favorable regeneration state, whereas 15 species had moderate regeneration status. However, the absence of the condition 'no regeneration' was due to the absence of the adult stage, which resulted in the absence of seedlings and saplings. The quantity of seedlings was greater during the rainy season compared to the dry season. The girth class distribution of Shorea robusta and all other studied tree species combined exhibited a reverse J-shaped population curve. There was a decline in tree density as the girth class increased, and trees with a larger girth class accounted for 34 individuals per hectare, indicating a strong ongoing regeneration capability. The Shannon-Wiener diversity index, Simpson's dominance index, Pielou's evenness index, and Margalaf's species richness index had values of 0.223, 0.937, 0.077, and 2.249, respectively. These values imply a limited diversity of tree species in the examined forest. Shorea robusta has the highest dominance (m²/ha), followed by Tectona grandis (0.091), Syzygium cumini (0.087), Trema orientale (0.022), and Cassia fistula (0.008). The cumulative basal area of the tree species examined amounted to 40.04 m²/ha, with Shorea robusta accounting for 39.81 m²/ha. This indicates that Sal is the prevailing tree species in the forest. Nevertheless, this study offers fundamental data regarding the current condition of the tropical Sal Forest toward forest conservation and environmental sustainability.
A lakáspolitika területi hatásai Magyarországon, különös tekintettel a 2016 utáni időszakra : A jövedelem és a lakásépítések kistérségi/járási szintű összefüggéseinek elemzése
Authors: Buskó Tibor László
Published: April 2024

A lakáspolitikák egyik sarokköve a kedvezőtlen jövedelmi viszonyokkal jellemezhető népesség lakáshelyzetének javítása. Ennek ellenére a rendszerváltás utáni Magyarországon egyre inkább a kormányzati szintű lakáspolitikák „liberális” arculata látszik érvényesülni, ami döntően a (felső) középosztálynak szánt közpolitikai eszközökkel és a lakhatási szegénység csökkentését célzó intézkedések marginalizálódásával jellemezhető. A tanulmány arra a kérdésre kíván választ adni, hogy mennyiben folytatódtak ezek a tendenciák 2010 után. A regresszióelemzés segítségével szignifikáns összefüggést állapítottunk meg a hazai járások jövedelmi viszonyai és lakásépítési hajlandóságuk között, rámutatva, hogy a 2016-ban kezdődő lakáspolitikai kurzus sem foglalkozott kellő mértékben a lakhatási szegénység problémáival, és ez korszakunk végére a rendszer bizonyos korrekcióját – a szerényebb jövedelmi helyzettel jellemezhető „preferált kistelepülések” felé irányuló fokozottabb figyelmet – tette szükségessé.
Visszaadott méltóság – művészetterápiával a hajléktalanokért : A VEB2023 Európa Kulturális Fővárosa által támogatott „Otthonra találni a művészetben” projekt tapasztalatai
Authors: Ládonyi Zsuzsanna
Published: April 2024

Az „Otthonra találni a művészetben” projekt az Európa Kulturális Fővárosa programsorozat támogatásával valósult meg Veszprémben 2023-ban. A hajléktalanokat célzó projekt keretében művészetterápiás foglalkozásokon vettek részt a Magyar Máltai Szeretetszolgálat Befogadás Házának lakói. Az így született festményeket és az alkotási folyamatról készült művészi fotókat azóta több kiállításon is bemutatták már. A kiállításmegnyitók katartikus élményt nyújtottak a hajléktalan alkotók és a befogadó közönség számára, ugyanakkor a közös élményen túl találkozási lehetőséget is jelentettek a többségi társadalom és egy perifériára szorult társadalmi réteg tagjai között. A Katarzisz Komplex Művészetterápiás Módszer által megvalósuló foglalkozások s az így kialakuló alkotócsoport és a kiállításmegnyitók mind-mind segítették az otthon nélküli embereket, hogy visszakaphassák emberi méltóságukat, növekedjen az önértékelésük, gyógyuljon a kapcsolatuk önmagukkal, társaikkal s a város lakóival, az érdeklődőkkel.
Desarrollo del plan formativo del docente y su impacto en la evaluación educativa en Ecuador
Authors: Gómez Chilán Lilian Florinda , Chuquitarco Encalada Soraya Marisol , Hallon López Claudia Pilar , Villarreal Robinzon Jessica Alexandra
Published: April 2024

En Ecuador, los docentes enfrentan el desafío de construir planes personales formativos y establecer rutas de aprendizaje efectivas para la evaluación educativa. Este proceso es fundamental para garantizar la calidad de la enseñanza y el aprendizaje en el contexto ecuatoriano. Para lograrlo, los docentes deben considerar diversos aspectos y seguir un enfoque estructurado. En primer lugar, es esencial que los docentes se familiaricen con los estándares educativos locales, que sirven como guía para el diseño de programas de estudio y la evaluación del progreso de los estudiantes. Estos estándares proporcionan un marco claro de lo que se espera que los estudiantes aprendan en cada nivel educativo y son fundamentales para la planificación curricular. Además, los docentes deben aprovechar el conocimiento y la experiencia de sus colegas, así como consultar a expertos en la materia, para enriquecer su plan personal formativo. El intercambio de ideas y la colaboración entre profesionales pueden aportar nuevas perspectivas y enfoques innovadores que beneficien a los estudiantes. En este contexto, el concepto de "aprendizaje continuo" se convierte en una piedra angular de la práctica docente en Ecuador. Los docentes reconocen la importancia de mantenerse actualizados en cuanto a nuevas metodologías, tecnologías educativas y enfoques pedagógicos para brindar una educación de calidad que responda a las necesidades cambiantes de los estudiantes y la sociedad en general. La evaluación continua permite identificar áreas de mejora y ajustar el plan formativo según sea necesario. Además, la reflexión sobre la práctica docente es fundamental para el crecimiento profesional y el desarrollo de habilidades pedagógicas.
Conocimiento, prácticas y uso de métodos anticonceptivos en los estudiantes del Instituto Superior Tecnológico San Gabriel
Authors: Acosta Lalaleo Daysi Pamela , Acosta Lalaleo Karen Leonela , Coloma Llango Adriana Gissela , Salazar Aroca Jimena de los Angeles , Arévalo Chavarrea Jessica Belén , Ashqui López Andrea Esthefania
Published: April 2024

Las infecciones de transmisión sexual, el embarazo no deseado, el abandono de los estudios entre otras consecuencias son trastornos provocados por la falta de orientación en la sexualidad al igual que la deficiencia en la información y concientización en la población. Con el objetivo de determinar el conocimiento, las prácticas y uso de los métodos anticonceptivos en el Instituto Superior Tecnológico San Gabriel, en la ciudad de Riobamba provincia de Chimborazo, Ecuador, se realizó un estudio con un diseño cuantitativo, observacional, descriptivo con corte transversal; la muestra estuvo conformada por 288 estudiantes de las diferentes carreras ofertadas en la institución, que se encontraban legalmente matriculados, sexo indistinto y con disponibilidad de tiempo. Se determinó que los conocimientos de los métodos anticonceptivos son deficientes, la persistencia de mitos, prácticas sexuales inseguras y la mala adherencia al uso de la anticoncepción. Se recomienda implementar estrategias de promoción y prevención acerca de la salud sexual de modo que se reduzcan las prácticas de riesgo para la salud.
Las empresas públicas en Ecuador: historia y evolución
Authors: Dávila Toro Luis Alberto , Heredia Logroño Pablo Alfonso , Lara Núñez Tatiana de Lourdes , Loor Gómez Jenny Aracely
Published: April 2024

El propósito de este artículo es comprender y describir el desarrollo de las empresas públicas en el Ecuador, se desarrolla los problemas que enfrentaron desde sus orígenes hasta la actualidad, a partir del aprendizaje de los errores del pasado se plantea la necesidad de lograr su eficiencia en la actualidad, es necesario tomar en cuenta que muchas empresas no han aportado valor al erario nacional generando déficit fiscal, en tal virtud es necesario  encontrar un nuevo paradigma para la gestión de las empresas estatales. Para el efecto es necesario reconocer al Estado como un organismo que debe satisfacer las necesidades de la sociedad para cumplir objetivos que persiguen el bien común. La gestión pública puede beneficiarse de las enseñanzas de la gestión empresarial, no obstante, deberá desarrollar un paradigma integrador de la gerencia pública. Es así que se reconoce la importancia de la gestión de las empresas públicas en el Ecuador en la promoción del desarrollo humano y el buen vivir de los ecuatorianos.
El principio misericordia en la formación de la familia como lugar teológico
Authors: Martínez Blanco Juliana Andrea
Published: April 2024

El artículo analiza la comprensión de la misericordia en el contexto familiar desde una perspectiva teológica y pastoral, utilizando la familia como punto de partida. Para ello, se emplea una metodología que se basa en la revisión de la teología bíblica y los documentos del Magisterio de la Iglesia que abordan la temática de la misericordia en el ámbito familiar. Los principales hallazgos revelan la importancia de considerar a la familia como un espacio de manifestación de la presencia divina y de crecimiento espiritual, donde se promueven valores fundamentales como el amor y la compasión, en línea con la tradición eclesial. Además, se destaca la necesidad de una espiritualidad basada en la misericordia, que impulse el desarrollo de relaciones familiares marcadas por el perdón, la reconciliación y la comprensión mutua. La investigación también identifica la relevancia de incorporar la enseñanza de la misericordia en la educación religiosa familiar y de fomentar prácticas concretas que fortalezcan una cultura de la misericordia dentro de los hogares y comunidades. Estos hallazgos ofrecen una reflexión profunda sobre el papel crucial de la misericordia en la vida familiar y su impacto en la formación espiritual de sus miembros, proporcionando orientación práctica para familias y líderes pastorales en la promoción de valores fundamentales en la sociedad.
Training Current and Future Health-related Practitioners to Accurately and Appropriately Disseminate Physical Activity Guidelines
Authors: Thomas Jafrā , Kennedy Winston , Love Bethany , Smith Caroline
Published: April 2024

Current and future health-related practitioners have low awareness of physical activity guidelines (PAGs) for general and clinical populations. The purpose of the present study was to critically appraise the quality of one 2021 draft training video, which was designed to help current and future health-related practitioners give advice consistent with general adult PAGs. A descriptive qualitative analysis was performed on open-ended responses provided by undergraduate research assistants (or recent alumni) affiliated with the first author’s lab and uninvolved in the video’s creation. Participation was optional, anonymous, and through an online questionnaire, open for seven days in April 2021 (14 invited, 8 participated, response rate = 57.14\%). Participant feedback was compared to applicable standards of the RE-AIM framework (i.e., reach, efficacy, and adoption). Face validity and other quality measures were determined through qualitative analysis. The first author performed the descriptive analysis, and the second author, acting as a critical friend, independently verified the trustworthiness of the analysis. No issues were identified (i.e., a succinct and veracious analysis). Participants generally agreed the draft video was clear, concise, informative, and interesting. Participants did not perceive any major concerns with the video (e.g., non-offensive/biased), and their suggestions were used to finalize the training video (e.g., to add closed captioning, further explain a graph). Results confirmed the video had good face validity and could be effective within real-world educational settings for current and future health-related practitioners (e.g., low time burden, stimulating, informative). Future research should investigate learning outcomes of the video and its real-world implementation.
Framework CSS: Tailwind CSS Untuk Front-End Website Store PT. XYZ
Authors: Azhariyah Sari , Muhammad Mukhlis
Published: April 2024

This research aims to apply Tailwind CSS as a CSS Framework on the website store’s PT. XYZ to be more responsive and have the freedom to determine the style and layout according to the analysis of website needs. This study was carried out at PT. XYZ in Subang Regency, where conducting product transactions with customers needs the creation of a store website. The phases of requirements analysis, design, implementation, and modification are all included in the research methodology. The UI/UX design at PT is reflected in the front end of the website store. Utilize utility classes to create UI elements in Tailwind CSS during the front-end design phase. It has been demonstrated that you may implement internet shop display designs more rapidly and freely give styles and layouts according to your demands by using the Tailwind CSS Framework. In addition, the responsive display facilitates cross-platform user experience by making it simpler for customers to complete transactions.
Democracy out-of-the-box: analysis of compliance with constitutional principles in tax policies that use Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Da Costa Nunes Erik Henrique , Oliveira Junior Cezar Bezerra de , Melo Laura Maria de Queiroz , Feitosa Carlos Eduardo A. , Monteiro Ingrid Teixeira
Published: April 2024

The Democratic State of Law emerged with the objective of improving everyone’s life, restricting the power of tyrants, who, among other arbitrary acts, unfairly taxed the people. While taxes remain crucial for the State’s upkeep, modern rules prevent individuals from enduring excessive burdens. Although new technologies leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) hold the promise of enhancing lives, the extent of this improvement raises questions. This study delves into the relationship between individuals and the State, specifically exploring the use of AI in tax-related scenarios. Conducting a comprehensive three-stage investigation, the first stage involved surveying the reasons behind State-imposed limitations on taxation. The second stage identified criteria from computer literature addressing potential AI challenges and strategies for achieving explainability. Additionally, a discussion emphasized the importance of technological models aligning with principles that underpin our society. Then, to understand how actions have been carried out in Public Administration, a Systematic Mapping Study (SMS) was carried out, analyzing works from the ACM Digital Library, SBC OpenLib (SOL) and the ENAP (National School of Public Administration)’s repository (a Gray Literature repository). On the ENAP website, works relating to the Creativity and Innovation Award from the Federal Revenue of Brazil were specifically consulted. In the end, 10 works that met the inclusion criteria were selected. It was concluded that none of them has an AI explainable model, considering the interpretability criteria of models (Rules and logic, Data visualization, and Model documentation). In light of this, it is recommended that studies addressing the use of AI in Public Administration incorporate a dedicated section discussing the explainability of models.
Perpetuierung eines Rechtsschutzdefizits – Über die Entscheidungen von Bundesverwaltungs- und Bundesverfassungsgericht zum Verbot von linksunten.indymedia.org
Authors: Rahner Jan , Werdermann David
Published: April 2024

Das Verbot der Internetplattform linksunten.indymedia.org beschäftigt die Justiz seit nun mehr als sechs Jahren und wird dies indirekt noch einige Zeit weiter tun, nachdem 2022 und 2023 Strafverfahren wegen Unterstützung und Fortführung der verbotenen Vereinigung auf Grundlage von § 85 StGB eingeleitet wurden. Das Verbot wirft Grundsatzfragen zum grundgesetzlichen Schutz von Online-Medien und dessen Auswirkungen auf das öffentliche Vereinsrecht auf. Doch obwohl sowohl Bundesverwaltungsgericht (BVerwG) als auch Bundesverfassungsgericht (BVerfG) sich mit dem Verbot befasst haben, sind diese Grundsatzfragen gerichtlich nach wie vor unbeantwortet. Im Oktober 2020 half das BVerwG den Klagen gegen das Verbot nicht ab, prüfte dabei aber nicht umfassend die Rechtmäßigkeit der Verbotsverfügung. Die dadurch geöffnete Rechtsschutzlücke schloss auch das BVerfG nicht, das im Februar 2023 die gegen das Urteil des BVerwG gerichteten Verfassungsbeschwerden mangels hinreichender Substantiierung von Grundrechtsverletzungen nicht zur Entscheidung annahm. Nachfolgend soll daher erneut auf die verfassungsrechtlichen Probleme des Verbots eingegangen und dessen Rechtswidrigkeit dargelegt werden (I.). Anschließend wird das beschränkte Prüfprogramm des BVerwG kritisch eingeordnet (II.), bevor die veröffentlichten Nichtannahmegründe des BVerfG im Fokus stehen sollen (III.). Es folgt ein kurzes Fazit (IV.).
A Master’s Tool? – Zur Notwendigkeit einer feministischen Kriminalisierungstheorie
Authors: Burghardt Boris , Steinl Leonie
Published: April 2024

Feministische Akteur*innen in Deutschland fordern gerade in jüngerer Zeit oftmals neue Straftatbestände zur Kriminalisierung von unterschiedlichen Formen geschlechtsspezifischer Gewalt. Die Kampagnen sind erfolgreich: Sie führen nicht nur zu breiten öffentlichen Diskussionen und rechtspolitischen Positionierungen im parteipolitischen Spektrum, sondern auch zu konkreten strafgesetzgeberischen Interventionen. Zugleich sieht sich dieses feministisch-kriminalpolitische Engagement für ein Mehr an Strafrecht Kritik ausgesetzt, die zum Teil ihrerseits dezidiert feministisch in Abgrenzung zu einem sog. Carceral Feminism begründet wird.  Der Beitrag rekapituliert diese Entwicklungen und versucht zugleich, eine Mittelposition aus der Perspektive einer feministischen Strafrechtswissenschaft zu begründen. Es soll gezeigt werden, dass die feministische Grundhaltung gegenüber dem Strafrecht zwar von der Einsicht in die Verflechtung strafrechtlicher Grundstrukturen in patriarchale Deutungsmuster, in die begrenzte Leistungsfähigkeit und politische Instrumentalisierbarkeit des Strafrechts ausgehen muss. Zugleich erfüllt das Strafrecht aber in der gesellschaftlichen Wahrnehmung Funktionen, die es auch aus der Perspektive eines kritisch geläuterten Feminismus zu einem legitimen und – jedenfalls unter den kontingenten Bedingungen der gegenwärtigen politischen und rechtlichen Ordnung – unverzichtbaren Instrument der Rechtspolitik werden lassen können. Entscheidend ist es, die Diskussion von Kriminalisierungsforderungen so zu gestalten, dass die aus feministischer Perspektive relevanten Fragen tatsächlich adressiert werden. Es bedarf mithin einer feministischen Kriminalisierungstheorie, deren Eckpunkte im Beitrag vorgestellt werden.
Perspective Chapter: Recognition of Activities of Daily Living for Elderly People in the Era of Digital Health
Authors: Sepesy Maučec Mirjam , Donaj Gregor
Published: April 2024

People around the world are living longer. The question arises of how to help elderly people to live longer independently and feel safe in their homes. Activity of Daily Living (ADL) recognition systems automatically recognize the daily activities of residents in smart homes. Automated monitoring of the daily routine of older individuals, detecting behavior patterns, and identifying deviations can help to identify the need for assistance. Such systems must ensure the confidentiality, privacy, and autonomy of residents. In this chapter, we review research and development in the field of ADL recognition. Breakthrough advancements have been evident in recent years with advances in sensor technology, the Internet of Things (IoT), machine learning, and artificial intelligence. We examine the main steps in the development of an ADL recognition system, introduce metrics for system evaluation, and present the latest trends in knowledge transfer and detection of behavior changes. The literature overview shows that deep learning approaches currently provide promising results. Such systems will soon mature for more diverse practical uses as transfer learning enables their fast deployment in new environments.
Isopiestic Method-Thermodynamic Method to Determine the Activity Coefficients of Components of a Solution
Authors: Ghasemi Ilkhechi Parisa
Published: April 2024

The isopiestic method is a thermodynamic technique used to measure the activity coefficients of components in a solution. In the context of ionic liquids, which are salts in liquid state below 100°C, the isopiestic method can be applied to study their behavior and properties in various solutions. In the isopiestic method, two solutions with different concentrations of a solute are prepared, and the vapor pressure of the solutions is measured at the same temperature. By comparing the vapor pressures, the activity coefficients of the solute in the solutions can be determined. When it comes to ionic liquids, this method can be used to explore their interactions with other substances, such as different solvents or salts. Understanding these interactions is crucial for various applications of ionic liquids, including their use as green solvents, electrolytes in batteries, and in other chemical processes.
Natural Medicine: In-Depth Exploration of Moringa oleifera’s Bioactive Compounds and Antimicrobial Effects
Authors: Moummou Hanane , Meftah Imane
Published: April 2024

The antimicrobial capabilities of Moringa oleifera have garnered significant scientific attention due to its rich array of bioactive compounds. This chapter provides a comprehensive examination of the antimicrobial activities exhibited by various components of the Moringa oleifera plant, including seeds, leaves, roots, fruits, and flowers. Notably, Moringa seeds, containing potent 4-(alpha-L-rhamanosyloxy) benzyl isothiocyanates, demonstrate strong antimicrobial effects against a broad spectrum of bacterial strains, including Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus, as well as fungi. Furthermore, lectins within Moringa seeds interact with bacterial membranes, impeding growth and viability. Moringa leaves exhibit pronounced antimicrobial actions against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, facilitated by phenolic compounds that disrupt essential bacterial functions. Similarly, Moringa roots demonstrate antibacterial and antifungal properties, attributed to compounds like N-benzylethyl thioformate, presenting promising alternatives to conventional antibiotics. Additionally, Moringa fruits and flowers display significant antimicrobial efficacy, with bioactive compounds such as phenols and flavonoids demonstrating activity against common pathogens like Candida albicans and Escherichia coli. This in-depth analysis underscores the multifaceted antimicrobial potential of Moringa oleifera, highlighting pathways for further research and the development of novel antimicrobial agents and nutraceuticals.
Towards Overcoming the Challenges to Adopting Ecosystem-Based Management Approach for Protected Areas: The Case of Serengeti Ecosystem
Authors: Kaiza-Boshe Theonestina
Published: April 2024

Ecosystem-based planning and management strategies concerning wildlife protected areas are a necessary development in ensuring ecological integrity of protected areas and hence the stability and survival of wildlife populations in them. Ecosystem-based planning and management strategies are however a new approach, and thus, most protected areas in Africa were established before the approach became known. Consequently, most protected areas need to adopt ecosystem-based management (EBM) to ensure ecological integrity of the areas and the survival of wildlife, as well as maintenance of other environmental services in general. Serengeti Ecosystem is one very complex system, with a large expanse of area and a multitude of stakeholders. Thus, adoption of EBM for Serengeti Ecosystem is faced by several challenges, the most daunting of which is human-wildlife conflicts (HWCs). The chapter analyzes this challenge through fairly detailed examination of the case in examples of the most outstanding HWCs and the initiatives that have been tried out to facilitate ecosystem-based management of the Serengeti, and comes to the conclusion that, with some modifications, the Greater Serengeti Conservation Society presents the best chance under the circumstances to succeed in overcoming the challenges to adoption of EBM for the Serengeti Ecosystem.
How to Maintain the Unsustainability of Mobility in the Development of Urban Areas? – Example from Slovakia
Authors: Schlosser Tibor , Schlosser Peter
Published: April 2024

The chapter discusses the experience of traffic engineering analysis and subsequent transport planning as a comprehensive tool for classifying the suitability of transport design solutions in cities. It will also highlight, on the basis of practical experience, the issue of the interventions of various non-profit organisations, whether for the environment or for alternative modes of transport, who will have to interact professionally and systematically when proposing changes or new solutions for serving the built-up area in cities. The issue mainly affects efforts to develop public transport, the prevailing lack of parking, the suppression of dynamic car traffic, especially in favour of cycling, but all from the point of view of the weakest road transport participant, which are the pedestrians. The public spaces are the relevant issue in a whole line and/or cross section point of view of the road/street. The other important task is the complexity and sustainability of the road/street network in urban areas. The principles focus on the systematic development of sustainable transport in terms of serviceability and accessibility. Distance and time for the functions of land use are crucial parameters and not just some fictional vision of aggressive promotion of one mode of transport at the expense of other modes.
Bridging Species and Disciplines: Incorporating Sociological Frameworks into Animal Models of Addiction
Authors: Fields Christopher
Published: April 2024

This chapter explores the integration of sociological concepts and frameworks into animal models of addictive behaviors, aiming to enhance cross-species validity and deepen understanding of addiction’s multifaceted biopsychosocial roots. Through an interdisciplinary approach merging sociology and behavioral neuroscience, the investigation examines how experiences of discrimination and constrained agency may contribute to addiction vulnerability. Specifically, chronic social defeat stress’s impact on drug-seeking behaviors is explored, drawing parallels between rodent models and human experiences of racial battle fatigue resulting from daily racial microaggressions. The chapter also delves into how lack of autonomy, social isolation, and perceived loss of control due to discrimination may precipitate substance use as a coping mechanism. Additionally, the influence of social hierarchies, bonding patterns, and intergenerational epigenetic effects on resilience versus susceptibility to addiction is considered. Current methodologies are critically evaluated, with a proposal to enhance ecological validity in animal experiments to better simulate nuanced sociocultural stressors associated with addiction risk. Emphasizing the urgent need for cross-disciplinary collaborations between rodent researchers and social scientists, the chapter advocates for the incorporation of relevant sociological concepts into behavioral assays. Ultimately, the integration of diverse perspectives is crucial for comprehensively addressing the psychosocial and neurobiological dynamics underlying addiction across mammalian species and for developing more effective and equitable prevention and treatment approaches.
I’ll be there for you? The bystander intervention model and cyber aggression
Authors: Karasavva Vasileia , Mikami Amori
Published: April 2024

The Bystander Intervention Model (BIM) has been validated for face-to-face emergencies and dictates that observers’ decision to intervene hinges on five sequential steps, while barriers block progress between steps. The current study is the first, to our knowledge, to apply the BIM in its entirety to cyber aggression and explore the ways that individual factors such as experiences with depression, social anxiety, and cyber aggression either as the target or the aggressor influence bystanders. In our pre-registered study, emerging adults (N = 1,093) viewed pilot-tested cyber aggressive content and reported how they would engage with each of the steps and barriers of the BIM, if they were observing this content as a bystander in real life. Regarding the actions they would take, most participants chose non-intervention (36.3%) or private direct intervention (39.4%). Path analysis suggested that overall, the BIM can explain bystanders’ responses to cyber aggression. Nonetheless, there were some discrepancies with prior work on face-to-face emergencies, specifically that cyber bystander intervention does not appear to be as linear. As well, in contrast to the face-to-face applications of the BIM that prescribes barriers to affect only a single specific step, here we found some barriers were negatively linked to multiple steps. These findings elucidate ways in which cyber aggression in the online context may be similar to, as well as different from, aggression that occurs face-to-face. Implications of these findings for interventions are discussed.
Recovery from gaming addiction: A thematic synthesis
Authors: Vasiljeva Ksenija , Kyriakopoulos Alex , Wilson Christopher
Published: April 2024

In recent years the field of gaming addiction has experienced an upsurge in empirical studies on various treatment approaches. Despite the advances in our understanding of how gaming addiction can be treated, the wider concept of recovery continues to be under-researched. The purpose of this review was to explore how individuals addicted to video games experience the process of recovery. Seven databases were systematically searched for qualitative studies. Eight studies representing the views of 225 participants were included in the review. Study findings were exported into NVivo software and analysed using Thematic Synthesis. Six themes were constructed: “developing awareness”, “deciding to change”, “the process of quitting”, “the challenges of quitting”, “recovery never stops” and “treatment for gaming addiction”. Except for the last, themes represent processes that most participants had gone through during recovery, though significant variation was found in how each process was experienced. In addition to overcoming addiction symptoms, recovery involved management of concomitant problems and various negative consequences of excessive gaming. Regarding practice implications, current findings suggest that treatment programs should adopt a multidimensional approach, providing evidence-based treatments, help for co-occurring problems, as well as pre- and post-treatment support to accommodate individuals at different stages of recovery. Further research is needed to expand our understanding of recovery, for instance, the impact of gender differences or how recovery experiences change based on different recovery goals (i.e., abstinence or reduced play time).
Are you always ignoring attitude-challenging messages? Eye-tracking selective exposure on Chinese’ lowly involved news consumption
Authors: Tian Qinqin , Zhou Shuhua , Gan Shuyi , Chen Guangyao , Luo Xin , Zhi Tingrong
Published: April 2024

This study employs a pre-post-test design to investigate the selective exposure behaviors while consuming news with low involvement. The experiment incorporates eye-tracking and self-report measures to explore participants’ preferences for attitude-consistent and attitude-inconsistent information. The results of the study indicate that attitude consistency does not serve as the primary determinant of selective exposure; instead, participants demonstrate a stronger inclination towards engaging with a smaller number of posts from a particular perspective. Following their exposure to the news feed, participants display a heightened tendency to read articles with neutral attitudes. In addition, individuals who initially held a particular attitude tend to shift towards a neutral standpoint, particularly when exposed to a mostly-consistent opinion climate. Notably, participants’ attitudes do not tend to become radicalized under any opinion climate. The study acknowledges its limitations and proceeds to discuss the implications of these findings.
The influence of communicating agent on users’ willingness to interact: A moderated mediation model
Authors: Zhou Qi , Li Bin
Published: April 2024

Empowered by AI, chatbots are increasingly being integrated to interact with users in one-on-one communication. However, academic scrutiny on the impact of chatbots on online interaction is lacking. This study aims to fill the gap by applying self-presentation theory (presenting the desired self-impression to others) to explore how the communicating agent (chatbot vs. human agent) in interactive marketing influences users’ interaction willingness, as well as the moderating roles of users’ public self-consciousness (sense of apprehension over self-presentation concern) and sensitive information disclosure (private information linked to an individual). The results of three experimental studies indicate that chatbots can improve users’ willingness to interact by mitigating the self-presentation concern. Further, users’ public self-consciousness and sensitive information disclosure moderated the impact of chatbots in online interactions. These effects were particularly impactful for users with higher public self-consciousness and in situations with sensitive information disclosure. The findings provide theoretical and practical implications for human-chatbot interaction, chatbot strategy, and the application of chatbots in online communication.
Public Sector Transformation: Increased Efficiency and Innovation in the Digital Economy
Authors: Nurfadilah Ayu , Haliah Haliah
Published: April 2024

Public sector transformation is a must in responding to new challenges and taking advantage of opportunities that arise in the digital economy era. The aim of this study is to understand the role of efficiency and innovation in public sector transformation, as well as its impact on public performance and services. The research background covers the ever-evolving global dynamics, where advances in digital technology have fundamentally changed the economic landscape, encouraging the public sector to improve efficiency, responsiveness, and innovation in providing public services to society. The research methods used include literature studies, secondary data analysis, and direct surveys to stakeholders related to public sector transformation. The results show that a large number of government agencies have adopted digital technology as part of their transformation efforts. However, there are still significant challenges associated with the digital divide and lack of technological skills among bureaucracy. It also found that innovation and collaboration across sectors play an important role in designing holistic and effective solutions. The result of this study is that the transformation of the public sector towards increased efficiency and innovation has a significant impact on public performance and services. Digital technology adoption, technology skills development, innovation promotion, and cross-sector collaboration are key in achieving transformation goals. By combining these efforts, the public sector can create significant added value for society and position themselves for long-term success in the ever-changing era of the digital economy.
From Language Arts to Learning Communities: Seeing the Bigger Picture with Multimodal Texts
Authors: Scane Clare Donovan
Published: April 2024

Exploring the intersections of critical literacies and visual literacies to increase opportunities for deepening comprehension across multimodal texts.
Writing Matters: Somos Escritoras: Writing and Remembering During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Flores Tracey T.
Published: April 2024

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Latina adolescent girls found community through writing, art, and storytelling in the Somos Escritoras online writing workshop.
A correlação dialetica qualitativa entre Kierkegaard e Karl Barth
Authors: Michel Michel Platinir Silva Damasceno , Quadros Gouvêa Ricardo
Published: April 2024

Nossa artigo tem como proposta basilar correlacionar o conceito de dialética qualitativa em Kierkegaard numa obra especifica, a Carta aos Romanos de Karl Barth. De modo conciso, ambos os autores aferem dessa dialética qualitativa contrapondo-se a uma dialética quantitativa oriunda da história do cristianismo e da especulação teológico-doutrinária.
O papel do cristão no estado democrático de direito
Authors: Lins Fernandes Leandro Henrique
Published: April 2024

As últimas decisões do Supremo Tribunal Federal têm feito a população desconfiar da existência de um Estado Democrático no Brasil. Dentro deste grupo maior de questionadores, existem os cristãos. Estes são aqueles que dizem seguir os ensinos de Jesus a partir dos evangelhos. Os cristãos se perguntam qual é o seu papel no Estado Democrático de Direito. A partir deste importante questionamento, este artigo busca definir primeiro o que é Estado Democrático de Direito para depois tentar elaborar qual a relação que o cristão deve ter com este tipo de Estado.
Machado lê Goethe, Machado e Goethe leem Jó
Authors: Lima Adilio
Published: April 2024

O presente trabalho se propôs a analisar as relações dialógicas na construção do conto “A Igreja do Diabo” de Machado de Assis com o livro bíblico Jó e o poema trágico Fausto de Göethe. Partimos da hipótese de que o conto machadiano “A Igreja do Diabo” foi construído a partir da intertextualidade e da interdiscursividade com as obras Jó e Fausto. Foram abordados especificamente os diálogos entre Deus e o Diabo encontrados nestas duas obras e elas foram comparadas com o conto machadiano. Para atingir nosso objetivo, a pesquisa foi embasada pelo suporte teórico da Análise Dialógica do Discurso (ADD).
Prevalência e fatores associados a sintomas depressivos em estudantes de Medicina no município de Imperatriz, Maranhão
Authors: Souza Aloiso Sampaio , Fontoura Guilherme Martins Gomes , Bedin Bárbara Lays , Nunes Luana Izabel da Silva , Lima Ergellis Victor Cavalcanti de , Gama Jullys Allan Guimarães
Published: April 2024

Objetivo: Avaliar a prevalência dos sintomas depressivos, bem como os fatores associados ao desenvolvimento da depressão em estudantes de Medicina, no município de Imperatriz-MA. Métodos: Estudo de caráter quantitativo, observacional, com delineamento transversal, em que foram selecionados 240 alunos de Medicina, de forma aleatória, do primeiro ao oitavo período que possuíam idade igual ou superior a 18 anos. Para coleta de dados, utilizaram-se de questionário sociodemográfico e do Inventário de Depressão de Beck (IDB). Resultados: O grupo estudado apresentou idade variada entre 18 e 44 anos, sendo predominantemente do gênero masculino e procedentes de outras cidades. Na avaliação da manifestação depressiva com a utilização do IDB, observou-se que 47,9% dos estudantes possuíam escore do IDB maior do que 14, indicando algum grau de depressão: leve, moderado ou grave. Considerações finais: O estudo ratificou a prevalência de sintomas depressivos presentes em outros estudos. Assim, estratégias devem ser desenvolvidas dentro da instituição pesquisada, no intuito de prevenir e tratar essa patologia, de modo a possibilitar aos estudantes métodos de enfrentamento de situações de estresse e depressão.
Recuperación Económica Verde: Movilizar inversiones hacia una economía baja en emisiones y resiliente al clima en América Latina y el Caribe
Authors:   United Nations Environment Programme
Published: April 2024

El proyecto “Recuperación Económica Verde: Movilizando inversiones hacia una economía baja en emisiones y resiliente al clima en América Latina y el Caribe” tuvo por objetivo el apoyar a países seleccionados de ALC (Argentina, Costa Rica, Granada, Honduras y Panamá) para abordar las principales barreras que enfrentan los países al diseñar, planificar y financiar planes de recuperación post-COVID-19 alineados con el Acuerdo de París.A lo largo del acompañamiento técnico se realizaron una serie de evaluaciones que analizan las oportunidades de integrar estrategias de desarrollo resilientes al clima de bajas emisiones en los paquetes de recuperación económica. Estos análisis demuestran que los planes de recuperación económica alineados con el Acuerdo de París son inversiones prospectivas y costo eficientes para los gobiernos de los países de ALC. En este espíritu, el proyecto “Recuperación Económica Verde” trabajó de manera cercana con las autoridades y personas expertas en 5 países para apoyar el proceso de planificación con evaluaciones basadas en ciencia. Para este fin se utilizó el Modelo de Economía Verde (GEM); una herramienta de modelación de Dinámica de Sistemas (SD) que facilita un enfoque integral de la planificación ambiental.