bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on 24-hour movement behaviors among preschoolers from Brazil
Authors: de Souza Filho Anastácio Neco , Bezerra Thaynã Alves , de Souza Alesandra Araujo , de Souza Cleene Tavares , Barros Lais Vitória Pinto , Tassitano Rafael Miranda , de Lucena Martins Clarice Maria
Published: April 2024

Healthy habits during early childhood are essential for a healthy adolescence and adulthood. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of children who met the 24-h movement behavior (physical activity [PA], sedentary behavior, and sleep) guidelines was low worldwide. Despite a lack of evidence, the restriction measures imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic are claimed to have further reduced the number, especially among preschoolers. Thus, this study was designed to compare the time spent on movement behaviors before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in low-income preschoolers from the Northeast Region of Brazil. Forty mothers provided data on their preschoolers’ sleep, sedentary behavior, and outdoor and indoor PA. To compare indoor and outdoor PA, sleep duration, and sedentary time during the weekdays and weekends, before and during the pandemic, generalized estimation equations were used. During the weekdays, a significant increase in sleep duration (553.7 vs. 627.0; p < 0.01) and sedentary times (225.0 vs. 409.5; p < 0.01) were observed. Further, an increase in the sedentary time during the weekend (319.5 vs. 406.5; p < 0.01) and the total time between the pre-pandemic and pandemic periods (249.0 vs. 409.5; p < 0.01) was observed. Our findings also unveiled that preschoolers were seven times more likely to be active outdoors for an hour or more before than during the pandemic (OR = 6.55; 95% CI = 2.07 – 20.73). In summary, the pandemic has altered preschoolers’ routines, leading to changes in their health behaviors over time.
ASSESSING THE VIABILITY OF ROMANIA'S NEWLY ESTABLISHED METROPOLITAN AREAS
Authors: STOIAN Constantin Alexandru , GROZA Octavian , RUSU Alexandru
Published: April 2024

The legislation of new metropolitan of Romania areas follows the complicated and confusing experience of previous metropolitan areas, instilling a sense of excessive caution among both public authorities and researchers. A review of the literature demonstrates the prevalence of theoretical, methodological and sectoral approaches when dealing with this functional frame of territorial delineation. Our research proposes an exploratory analysis of the major metropolitan areas (MMAs) developed around county seats, in order to understand the medium and long-term dynamics affecting the development of these territorial structures contingent on local governance. By using a methodology based on the harmonisation of statistical series according to the current administrative structure, as well as on the cartographic analysis of demographic trends between 1992 and 2021, the study demonstrates the uneven development trends of major metropolitan areas, increasing the risk of widening territorial gaps.
‘ALERT FOR THE NEIGHBOURS’: NEGOTIATING MUSLIM (NON)REPRESENTATIONS IN AN EAST GERMAN CITY
Authors: SCHADE Katrin , LEVERT Josca , REBETTGE Ulrike , BERGMANN Janne , RÖDER Lisa , SCHERER Marlene
Published: April 2024

When it comes to Muslim representational practices in European cities, fears, criticism and scepticism emerge in the public discourse. The aim of this paper is to investigate how Muslim places of prayer are negotiated. By means of a multi-method approach we investigate how Muslim places of prayer in Leipzig become visible. We further question the media’s role in local negotiation processes. The analysis shows that the diverse Muslim places of prayer rather resemble as ‘backyard mosques’ due to financial and structural hurdles as well as conflict avoidance. However, some interviewees explain their satisfaction with the places of prayer, which are places of migration and thus social networks, especially for the first generation. Due to its East German past, Leipzig is experiencing a partly catch-up debate regarding the arrival of Islam through migration. However, religion as culture is giving-way to individual local practices of representation of diverse Muslim people that could be picked up more strongly by the media.
Epilepsy and Mental Retardation Restricted to Females (EFMR Syndrome) in a Child: PCDH19 Mutation with Pathogenic Heterogenous Variant C. 1720G>T
Authors: Bittmann Stefan
Published: April 2024

An epilepsy with intelligence impairment, restricted to the female sex, is a rare X-linked epilepsy syndrome called EFMR syndrome. It is characterized by febrile or afebrile seizures, mainly tonic-clonic, but also absence, myoclonic, and atonic. Seizures begin in the first years of life and developmental delay and intelligence impairment of varying severity is found. Behavioral disorders with autistic traits, hyperactivity and aggressiveness are also commonly associated. This disease exclusively affects females. Male carriers are not affected despite an X-linked inheritance. The authors present the first pediatric case of a PCDH19 mutation with pathogenic heterogenous variant c. 1720G>T to date.
WAYS TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF MODERN TRENDS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF PHYSICAL ABILITIES IN YOUNG JUDOKAS
Authors:   Bukhara State University Associate Professor Of The Department” Sports Activities", Alimovich Farmanov O’tkir ,   , Uzbekistan, Mardonovich Davronov Farmon ,   Bukhara State University Master Of Stage 1, Uzbekistan
Published: April 2024

This article formulates a new scientific approach to the formation and development of physical qualities of young athletes involved in the sport of judo, such as flexibility, coordination, endurance, high-speed physical qualities. In the course of the study, modern trends in the sports training of young judoists were studied. According to the results of the scientific and literary analysis, the sources propose a methodology that allows using the “principle of maximum efficiency” aimed at the application of technical actions. According to the results of the study, the effectiveness of the proposed methodology was determined, and positive dynamics of indicators was observed in all tests in the experimental group. In the scientific experiment, such research methods as pedagogical observation, pedagogical testing, pedagogical experiment, methods of mathematical statistics were used.
PEDAGOGICAL POSSIBILITIES OF IMPLEMENTING THE CPA (CONCRETE-PICTORIAL-ABSTRACT) APPROACH
Authors:   Doctor Of Philosophy In Educational Sciences (Phd), Associate Professor, The Doctoral Student Of Tashkent State Pedagogical University Named After Nizami (Dsc), Uzbekistan, Shuxratovna Ruzikulova Nigora
Published: April 2024

The increase in the flow of information in the field of sciences requires the improvement of technologies that serve to master it, and the introduction of new technologies. Learning materials consist of variables, characters, etc. However, mastering educational materials is not just learning symbols, but most importantly, being able to apply knowledgein everyday life. And abstract educational materials are very important in mastering science. This article explores the pedagogical possibilities of introducing the CPA (Concrete-Pictorial-Abstract) approach to primary education. Based on the analysis, itbecame clear that the CPA (Concrete-Pictorial-Abstract) approach has not been thoroughly studied by local scientists and its possibilities have not been analyzed.
OTHER METHODS OF TEACHING PROBABILITY THEORY AND COMBINATORICS
Authors:   Teacher of JSPU Academic College, Uzbekistan, Erkinovna Ergasheva Fatima , kizi Egamberdiyeva Mohinur Fakhriddin ,   Teacher of JSPU Academic College, Uzbekistan
Published: April 2024

The traditional methods of teaching probability theory and combinatorics often fail to engage students and promote deep understanding. This study explores alternative teaching strategies that incorporate active learning, technology, and real-world applications to enhance student comprehension and interest in these mathematical fields. By comparing the effectiveness of these methods with conventional approaches, this research aims to provide educators with practical insights for improving mathematics education.
THE EFFECT OF THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF THE COUNTRY ON THE POPULATION OF PERSONAL INSURANCE TYPES
Authors:   Samarkand State Universityof Architecture and Civil Engineering named after Mirzo Ulugbek, applicant for the Department of Construction Economics and Management, Uzbekistan, Shokir Zhonuzokov Ozod
Published: April 2024

In this article, the role and importance of personal insurance in the social protection of the population, the types of personal insurance and their essence are highlighted, and the reforms implemented in the practice of personal insurance are considered. The economic nature of life insurance is revealed, the factors affecting the popularity of this type of insurance are analyzed, and proposals and recommendations for improving the practice of personal insurance are developed.
IMPORTANCE OF UNDERSTANDING DECISION-MAKING UNDER UNCERTAINTY
Authors:   Tashkent Economy And Pedagogical Institute, Uzbekistan, O’gli Mirzaxmatov Baxodir Baxromboy
Published: April 2024

This thesis contributes to a deeper understanding of the dynamic interplay between organizational culture and decision-making under uncertainty, providing valuable implications for organizational leadership, development, and change management in an ever-evolving business landscape.
Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties of Distinct Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized by Green Synthesis
Authors: Ercan Leyla , Tükenmez Emre Ümmügülsüm
Published: April 2024

Nanoparticles are materials that can be used in a wide range from medicine to industry. In recent years, especially the fruits, flowers, leaves, and roots of plants have come to the fore in nanoparticle synthesis because they are environmentally friendly and economical. Rosa damascena is a plant that is used both in foods such as jams, desserts, and beverages, and in many cosmetic products such as perfumes, creams, and lotions due to its pleasant smell and taste. In addition to its pleasant taste and aroma, valuable bioactive components are among the main uses of these flowers. Berberis crataegina fruit is a wild shrub fruit that can be consumed by humans but is unknown to many. This study aims to examine the antibacterial and antioxidant properties of silver nanoparticles produced from Rosa damascena flowers and Berberis crataegina fruits, both of which are rich in anthocyanins. For this, first of all, the produced silver nanoparticles were evaluated using SEM and SEM EDX. In addition, the size and properties of the nanoparticle were defined by performing XRD and FTIR analyses. In addition, antimicrobial, and antioxidant analyses analyses of these nanoparticles were performed. As a result, two different silver nanoparticles with high antioxidant properties were synthesized from both. However, nanoparticles synthesized from R. damascena flower showed more antimicrobial activity than nanoparticles synthesized from Berberis crataegina fruit.
Can English be a national language in Pakistan?
Authors: Haidar Sham
Published: April 2024

This article argues that English should be considered as a national language in Pakistan in order to make it accessible to ordinary people and remove the negative assumptions attached to it. Using language planning and policy perspective, it suggests that instead of seeing traditional language as a problem, language policy should adopt language as a resource, which should not only be limited to a local or indigenous language(s), but should also be extended to other modern languages, such as English in Pakistan. Such a shift will reduce some of the problems of language planning and policy; it will not only reduce the burden on ordinary students to acquire (a) different second language(s), but will also make knowledge accessible to them through the use of their mother tongue and English. It will also help in reducing social stratification, as currently society is divided into elite and lower classes, with the class structure being perpetuated with the help of varying school systems and differential use of and access to Urdu and English. This study can lead to new debates about the use of English in non-English-speaking societies.
The Next Generation Deep Extragalactic Exploratory Public (NGDEEP) Survey
Authors: Bagley Micaela B. , Pirzkal Nor , Finkelstein Steven L. , Papovich Casey , Berg Danielle A. , Lotz Jennifer M. , Leung Gene C. K. , Ferguson Henry C. , Koekemoer Anton M. , Dickinson Mark , Kartaltepe Jeyhan S. , Kocevski Dale D. , Somerville Rachel S. , Yung L. Y. Aaron , Backhaus Bren E. , Casey Caitlin M. , Castellano Marco , Chávez Ortiz Óscar A. , Chworowsky Katherine , Cox Isabella G. , Davé Romeel , Davis Kelcey , Estrada-Carpenter Vicente , Fontana Adriano , Fujimoto Seiji , Gardner Jonathan P. , Giavalisco Mauro , Grazian Andrea , Grogin Norman A. , Hathi Nimish P. , Hutchison Taylor A. , Jaskot Anne E. , Jung Intae , Kewley Lisa J. , Kirkpatrick Allison , Larson Rebecca L. , Matharu Jasleen , Natarajan Priyamvada , Pentericci Laura , Pérez-González Pablo G. , Ravindranath Swara , Rothberg Barry , Ryan Russell , Shen Lu , Simons Raymond C. , Snyder Gregory F. , Trump Jonathan R. , Wilkins Stephen M.
Published: April 2024

We present the Next Generation Deep Extragalactic Exploratory Public (NGDEEP) Survey, a deep slitless spectroscopic and imaging Cycle 1 JWST treasury survey designed to constrain feedback mechanisms in low-mass galaxies across cosmic time. NGDEEP targets the Hubble Ultra Deep Field (HUDF) with NIRISS slitless spectroscopy (

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lim
,
line
,
5
σ

≈
1.2

×

10−18 erg s−1 cm−2) to measure metallicities and star formation rates (SFRs) for low-mass galaxies through the peak of the cosmic SFR density (0.5 < z < 4). In parallel, NGDEEP targets the HUDF-Par2 parallel field with NIRCam (

m

lim
,
5
σ

=
30.6
−
30.9

) to discover galaxies to z > 12, constraining the slope of the faint end of the rest-ultraviolet luminosity function. NGDEEP overlaps with the deepest HST Advanced Camera for Surveys optical imaging in the sky, F435W in the HUDF (

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,
F
435
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=
29.6

) and F814W in HUDF-Par2 (

m

lim
,
F
814
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=
30

), making this a premier HST+JWST deep field. As a treasury survey, NGDEEP data are public immediately, and we will rapidly release data products and catalogs in the spirit of previous deep-field initiatives. In this paper we present the NGDEEP survey design, summarize the science goals, and detail plans for the public release of NGDEEP reduced data products.
Drivers of Magnetic Field Amplification at Oblique Shocks: In Situ Observations
Authors: Madanian Hadi , Gingell Imogen , Chen Li-Jen , Monyek Eli
Published: April 2024

Collisionless shocks are ubiquitous structures throughout the Universe. Shock waves in space and astrophysical plasmas convert the energy of a fast-flowing plasma to other forms of energy, including thermal and magnetic energies. Plasma turbulence and high-amplitude electric and magnetic fluctuations are necessary for effective energy conversion and particle acceleration. We survey and characterize in situ observations of reflected ions and magnetic field amplification rates at quasiperpendicular shocks under a wide range of upstream conditions. We report magnetic amplification rates as high as 25 in our current data set. Reflected ions interacting with the incoming plasma create magnetic perturbations that cause magnetic amplification in upstream and downstream regions of quasiperpendicular shocks. Our observations show that, in general, magnetic amplification increases with the fraction of reflected ions, which itself increases with Mach number. Both parameters plateau once full reflection is reached. Magnetic amplification continuously increases with the inverse of the magnetization parameter of the upstream plasma. We find that the extended foot region upstream of shocks and nonlinear processes within that region are key factors for intense magnetic amplification. Our observations at nonrelativistic shocks provide the first experimental evidence that below a certain magnetization threshold, the magnetic amplification efficiency at quasiperpendicular shocks becomes comparable to that at the quasiparallel shocks.
JWST MIRI MRS Images of Disk Winds, Water, and CO in an Edge-on Protoplanetary Disk
Authors: Arulanantham Nicole , McClure M. K. , Pontoppidan Klaus , Beck Tracy L. , Sturm J. A. , Harsono D. , Boogert A. C. A. , Cordiner M. , Dartois E. , Drozdovskaya M. N. , Espaillat C. , Melnick G. J. , Noble J. A. , Palumbo M. E. , Pendleton Y. J. , Terada H. , van Dishoeck E. F.
Published: April 2024

We present JWST MIRI MRS observations of the edge-on protoplanetary disk around the young subsolar-mass star Tau 042021, acquired as part of the Cycle 1 GO program “Mapping Inclined Disk Astrochemical Signatures.” These data resolve the mid-IR spatial distributions of H2, revealing X-shaped emission extending to ∼200 au above the disk midplane with a semiopening angle of 35° ± 5°. We do not velocity-resolve the gas in the spectral images, but the measured semiopening angle of the H2 is consistent with a magnetohydrodynamic wind origin. A collimated, bipolar jet is seen in forbidden emission lines from [Ne ii], [Ne iii], [Ni ii], [Fe ii], [Ar ii], and [S iii]. Extended H2O and CO emission lines are also detected, reaching diameters of ∼90 and 190 au, respectively. Hot molecular emission is not expected at such radii, and we interpret its extended spatial distribution as scattering of inner disk molecular emission by dust grains in the outer disk surface. H i recombination lines, characteristic of inner disk accretion shocks, are similarly extended and are likely also scattered light from the innermost star–disk interface. Finally, we detect extended polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) emission at 11.3 μm cospatial with the scattered-light continuum, making this the first low-mass T Tauri star around which extended PAHs have been confirmed, to our knowledge. MIRI MRS line images of edge-on disks provide an unprecedented window into the outflow, accretion, and scattering processes within protoplanetary disks, allowing us to constrain the disk lifetimes and accretion and mass-loss mechanisms.
Quantum chemical calculations on calcium oxalate and dolichin A and their binding efficacy to lactoferrin: An in silico study using DFT, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Acharya Arjun , Khanal Madan , Maharjan Rajesh , Gyawali Kalpana , Luitel Bhoj Raj , Adhikari Rameshwar , Mulmi Deependra Das , Lamichhane Tika Ram , Lamichhane Hari Prasad
Published: April 2024

Lactoferrin, a member of the transferrin family, is one of the promoter proteins for calcium oxalate-type kidney stone formation. It exhibits a remarkable ability to interact with metals and oxalate ions. The prevalence of calcium oxalate in kidney stones was confirmed by the Fourier transform infrared spectra. The quantum chemical properties of calcium oxalate and dolichin A calculated by density functional theory and time-dependent density functional theory indicate their potential for hydrogen bonding and nonbonding interactions with the receptor proteins. From molecular docking analysis, the binding free energy of dolichin A was −7.78 kcal/mol, which was the best of twenty-four phytochemicals from Macrotyloma uniflorum, and that of calcium oxalate was −3.86 kcal/mol to lactoferrin. Furthermore, dolichin A having favorable physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties offers post molecular dynamics molecular mechanics generalized Born surface area free energy of −17.61 ± 4.03 kcal/mol, indicating the strong binding interactions, and, therefore, it acts as a potential inhibitor of the lactoferrin.
Design and Implementation of an Intelligent Cross-Border E-Commerce English Learning Platform Based on a Knowledge Map
Authors: Huang Lei , Ma Li
Published: April 2024

At present, most online education platforms still have problems such as single learning modes and loose knowledge structures. Using the knowledge map, the study employs a personalized adaptive intelligent adjustment strategy based on the structural expression of the CBEC English subject system. Firstly, the study uses the Scapy framework to crawl the subject knowledge data. Then use the LTP platform to process sentences containing multiple entities. Input the sentence into the dependency parser to analyze and extract the entity relationship. Finally, according to the relevance between knowledge points and topics in the knowledge map, the final learning path recommendation result is obtained. And cluster the similarity of curriculum content to build a complete curriculum system. Based on the above operations, a knowledge map-based smart learning platform for the CBEC English discipline has been designed and implemented to provide a smart, personalized learning environment for learners. According to the experimental analysis, the average satisfaction of learners with the learning platform designed by the study is 81.56%, which can meet the learning needs of learners and provide an excellent mobile learning environment for students.
Analysis of Learners' Emotions in E-Learning Environments Based on Cognitive Sciences
Authors: Sahraie Faranak , Rezvanfar Ahmad , Movahedmohammadi Seyed Hamid , Ebner Martin , Alambeigi Amir , Farrokhnia Mohammadreza
Published: April 2024

The present study aimed to examine students’ emotions in e-learning classes through facial expressions and investigate the influence of different instructional methods on students’ emotional responses. In this study, we examined the facial expressions of 17 undergraduate students using three different methods of presenting educational content (PowerPoint, video, and Kahoot) in online classes and analyzed the data with face reader software. The findings demonstrated that students experienced various positive and negative emotions with different methods of content delivery. Furthermore, comparing the three methods revealed that the Kahoot method elicited the highest average of positive emotions among students compared to the other two methods. This difference can be attributed to the visual attractiveness and interactive nature of the Kahoot environment. Additionally, this study highlights that simply incorporating multimedia materials, such as PowerPoint presentations and videos, is not sufficient to enhance effectiveness and cultivate positive emotions in e-learning. While multimedia materials serve as supportive tools and enhance visualization, interaction at various levels (content, teacher, peers, etc.) is necessary. Nevertheless, the significance of this research lies in the innovative application of a tool for analyzing emotions in online learning classrooms, thereby enhancing the measurement of genuine and objective emotional responses in e-learning environments.
Ethics and Social Responsibility for 21st Century ICT
Authors: Windsor Duane
Published: April 2024

This chapter examines ethics and social responsibility for the 21st century world of Information and Communications Technology (ICT). The approach divides into two principal dimensions. One dimension concerns the definition and interpretation of ethics and social responsibility. The other dimension concerns the application of the definition and interpretation to ICT services and technologies in the 21st century. This dimension divides in turn among ICT supplier organizations, managers and professionals within those organizations, and consumers of ICT services and equipment. Ethics and social responsibility are not simply the same concepts. Ethics is about what is normatively right or wrong action in relation to a good or bad outcome. Social responsibility is about what is due to social welfare normatively or social pressure and legal control empirically and who determines how to define that social welfare. Social responsibility thus may be partly normative and partly positive. There is an essential link to ethics, but the two concepts only partially coincide.
Africa's Indigenous Knowledge
Authors: Niyitunga Eric Blanco
Published: April 2024

Indigenous knowledge refers to knowledge systems unique to a given culture. Tharakan argued that indigenous knowledge is differentiated from the modern and international scientific knowledge systems. The current universities and institutions of learning are built on indigenous knowledge. The roots of today's social sciences, science, and technology rest on indigenous knowledge as it informs scientific research conducted in different institutions of higher learning, such as universities and research institutions. Therefore, indigenous knowledge can be seen as a component of society, part of humanity's scientific and technological advancements, which generates knowledge that cannot be achieved orally but gained through a rigorous academic investigation.
Green Finance in the Airline Industry
Authors: Rodrigues António , Abrantes Jorge , Quadros Rui , Kurnaz Salim
Published: April 2024

The objective of this chapter is to analyze the main sustainability and green financing challenges for the airline sector. Qualitative research, based on a literature review and mainly on official sustainability and green financing documents, was used. The methodology is suitable for collecting information within the scope of the study of subjective phenomena, which, in the opinion of Yin, favors a more critical position on the part of the researcher. The conclusion reached is that regulatory changes and society's greater focus on environmental issues lead to changes in the aviation industry, although they cannot be immediately applied to all flights and by all airlines. It is not enough to modernize planes and operations. Aviation support activities must also be part of the sustainability equation. Without adequate financing, it is not possible to reinvent the business. Financing through mixed financing agreements with public and private resources is one of the alternatives discussed in academia and the financial market. Capital needs to find good projects.
The Inclusion of Information Literacy and Skills Course in the Core Curriculum at the University of Namibia
Authors: Yule Wilson
Published: April 2024

This study investigated the inclusion of an information literacy skills course in the UNAM's core curriculum. The research study adopted a case study design that employed a qualitative approach and used interviews and content analysis as data collection methods. Interviews were conducted with the three key informants who were chosen purposefully. The findings of the study revealed that the introduction of the IL course is in line with the university's vision and the national and international aspirations. UNAM employs the embedded approach when delivering the information literacy skills course which is offered within the module called Academic Literacy. The study showed that the IL programme at UNAM faces challenges since Academic Literacy is supposed to be a compulsory module, but some students were exempted from undertaking the module. The study recommended that UNAM should not leave out every registered student to participate in the IL skills course since it is the basis of the knowledge economy.
Inventory Classification and Management System Using Machine Learning and Analytical Dashboard
Authors: Jayendran Renouthani A. P. , Keikhosrokiani Pantea , Chui Sian Ling
Published: April 2024

This chapter explores the integration of inventory management and machine learning, offering a comprehensive guide to harnessing analytical dashboards for improved decision-making. At the core of modern inventory management lies the challenge of balancing stock levels to meet demand without incurring excess or shortfall. Using classification algorithms, this chapter explores how machine learning techniques can revolutionize inventory control, making predictions more accurate and operations more efficient. It provides a detailed walkthrough of implementing these machine learning models, emphasizing their practical benefits in forecasting and classification tasks within inventory management. Furthermore, it demonstrates how Power BI can be leveraged to visualize inventory data, enabling stakeholders to gain insights into stock trends, performance metrics, and the overall health of the supply chain. By integrating machine learning outputs into Power BI dashboards, businesses can achieve a holistic view of their inventory dynamics, facilitating informed decision-making processes.
Navigating the Grey Area
Authors: Choudhury Anirudha , Shah Asif Iqubal , Chattopadhyay Shrabana , Bag Akash
Published: April 2024

The chapter examines the concept of self-defense in international law and cyber operations, focusing on when a cyber operation escalates to a cyber-attack and justifying a state's right to self-defense. The severity of a cyber operation is crucial, as it distinguishes between operations causing significant harm and those causing only economic damage. The chapter also explores the complexities surrounding the involvement of non-state actors in cyber operations, suggesting the ‘unwilling or unable' doctrine for defensive actions against non-state actors. The legitimacy of self-defense is based on the necessity of the response as a last resort and its proportionality to the threat faced.
Early Literacy in Children With Hearing Loss
Authors: Atlar-Yildirim Hilal , Uzuner Yıldız
Published: April 2024

Children realize that reading and writing have meaning in spoken and written language development. Over time, they use the sounds in their mother tongue and the letters in their native language alphabet. Early literacy is a combination of verbal language, phonological awareness, alphabetic knowledge, print awareness, concepts related to writing, and the development of scribbles/writings that reflect the child's discovery. In this context, the scope and importance of early literacy and the development of literacy in children with hearing loss are conveyed. Then, the characteristics of the literacy environment, the nature of the experiences, and the views of the family on literacy are presented with examples from the researchers' case studies. Furthermore, an action research example illustrates the role of educator-family collaboration in supporting the early literacy development of children with hearing loss. This chapter presents suggestions to families and teachers to support emergent literacy in daily routines.
The Integration of Service-Learning Andragogy for Achieving Learning Outcomes and Cultivating 21st Century Skills in the Commerce Domain
Authors: Tantia Veerta , Valarmathi Sharon , Kareem Jacqueline
Published: April 2024

The educational landscape has rapidly transformed to address the growing complexities, uncertainties, and ambiguities in the world. Modern education requires teachers to impart knowledge and skills that empower students for life and societal contributions. Education systems have shifted from independent entities to integral components of larger ecosystems, as per the OECD Learning Compass 2030. Students are expected to acquire 21st-century skills, which include learning and innovation skills, life and career skills, and social and ICT skills. In commerce education, service learning is pivotal, allowing the practical application of theoretical knowledge. This engagement with both theory and practice enhances understanding. The proposed chapter outlines service-learning activities by commerce education institutions, reinforcing academic knowledge and community engagement. It advocates for adopting a service-learning andragogic approach, emphasizing the integration of theory and practice in commerce education.
Using Service Learning to Fuel Multi-Disciplinary Research in Indian HEIs
Authors: Bajaj Bhavna
Published: April 2024

The current work proposes a novel approach that can allow Indian HEIs to offer service-learning-based curricula while enhancing the institutional research output. The proposed model suggests a unique linkage between existing volunteer and academic departments at institutions of higher education such that data already being generated through existing outreach programs can be utilised for meaningful social science research. The proposed model thus utilizes existing resources already available with an institution to bolster research output, enhances the institutional capacity to include a pedagogical approach with proven benefits, and facilitates institutional compliance with regulatory directives mandating the inclusion of Service-learning-based courses at UG and PG levels.
BYOD and the Evolving Workplace
Authors: Goyal Upasna , Sachdeva Geeta
Published: April 2024

In the cutting-edge realm of IT, a new sensation takes center stage: the emergence of bring your own device (BYOD), demanding instant attention. This trend encourages employees to harness the potential of their own personal gadgets for tapping into the company's intricate systems and data repositories. BYOD, a subset of ‘IT consumerization', impact from the CEO's strategic position to hourly workers in the corporate hierarchy. In the exploration of BYOD policies, authors are set to uncover the challenges associated with their adoption. Additionally, the evolution of BYOD will be traced, providing statistical insights and examining legal cases that have shaped its trajectory. Along this journey, there will be a delve into the interplay between BYOD and cyberloafing, shedding light on this dynamic within the organizational context. Moreover, an analysis will be conducted on the benefits of implementing a BYOD policy, evaluating whether Indian Inc. companies should embrace this trend. Throughout, consideration is given to key market players, highlighting their pivotal roles.
Unveiling the Educational Potential of Virtual Reality (VR) Technology
Authors: Huan Meng , Sanmugam Mageswaran
Published: April 2024

This study reveals the educational potential of virtual reality technology, and analyzes its development track, research status at home and abroad, current application and future prospects in the field of education. The multi-dimensional advantages of VR are explored, the educational value of virtual reality is analyzed, and the learning theory related to the educational application of virtual reality is introduced in detail. In addition, this study also examines the practical application of virtual reality in education, including virtual campus, virtual learning environment, virtual laboratory and so on. It emphasizes the challenges that prevent virtual reality from being widely integrated into education, and emphasizes the necessity of technological progress, teacher training and improvement of practical models. Finally, this study also provides suggestions and future prospects for the better integration of virtual reality technology into education, and outlines the ways to use the full potential of virtual reality in education.
Integrating City Logistics Strategies With Resource-Based Theory for Sustainable Urban Logistics
Authors: Mızrak Filiz
Published: April 2024

This chapter seeks to explore the potential synergy between city logistics strategies and the resource-based view (RBV) theory from the field of strategic management to enhance the sustainability of urban logistics systems. The RBV theory emphasizes the role of unique resources and capabilities in achieving competitive advantage. By applying this theory to urban logistics, the study aims to identify how strategic resource allocation and utilization can contribute to more sustainable urban logistics operations. Employing a case study approach, this research will examine real-world urban logistics systems and their alignment with RBV principles. The chapter analyzes how urban logistics entities leverage their distinctive resources and capabilities to design and implement sustainable logistics practices. The findings will shed light on how businesses, policymakers, and urban planners can collaboratively develop and implement strategies that harness available resources to create sustainable urban logistics solutions.
The Future of Sustainable Marketing
Authors: Tshuma Sinothando , Dube Mercy , Hungwe Delight Rufaro , Masengu Reason
Published: April 2024

The concept of sustainable agricultural marketing is gaining momentum with many countries seeking to sustainably increase their market access, with rising concerns of opening regional boarders in the African continent or rather creating free trade zones. These initiatives have raised questions regarding the role of various stakeholders towards sustainable agricultural marketing. The thrust of the chapter is to determine the perspectives of various stakeholders such as the government, suppliers, farmers, and the customers in embracing sustainable agricultural practices. The chapter's methodology reviewed various literatures to determine the trends in the development, implementation, and the future life of sustainable agricultural marketing. The study was informed by the stakeholder theory by Freeman. The major findings were that sustainable agricultural marketing can only be achieved though stakeholder consensus in embracing the concept.
Catalyzing Sustainable Corporate Governance
Authors: Primec Andreja
Published: April 2024

Efforts to steer directors to the interests of the broader social community rather than simply maximising profits for shareholders are now decades away. International organisations have significantly contributed to enforcing responsible business behaviour with non-binding standards and recommendations. From a legal point of view, the EU/2014 Directive should be highlighted as the first law that introduced the obligation to disclose non-financial information in a company's business report. In the following years, economic and societal changes have shown that such reporting is essential. Still, it probably does not give the stakeholders the information they need for their (investment) decisions. As a result, at the end of 2022, the European legislator replaced the NFRD with a new corporate sustainability reporting directive (CSRD). The latter represents an essential building block of the legislative framework for sustainable financing and promoting sustainable corporate governance.
Corporate Directors' Sustainability Due Diligence
Authors: Bohinc Rado
Published: April 2024

The most important for the legal regulation of sustainable corporate governance is the latest proposal of the EU directive, which introduces the duties of corporate sustainability due diligence (corporate sustainability due diligence directive, CSDDD, proposal 2022); that is, the duties of companies (also from third countries) to define actual and potential negative impacts on the environment and human rights, and the duty to prevent and eliminate them (also in business chains). It seems that the voluntary action did not lead to a large-scale improvement in all sectors, so negative externalities of EU production and consumption are noticeable in the Union and outside. In this regard, the CSDDD also relies on the OECD due diligence guidelines for responsible supply chains of minerals from conflict-affected and high-risk areas, the OECD guidelines for textiles and footwear and, in collaboration with FAO, the guidelines for agriculture and food.
Revisiting Governance Theories for Understanding ESG and Sustainability Nexus
Authors: Baporikar Neeta
Published: April 2024

Governance theories form the bedrock of governance mechanisms. But a lot has flowed over the bridge from the time these theories were postulated. The world has become more global, businesses have become more complex, societies have become more aware of their rights, and concerns over the planet, earth, and people, ecological balances have increased and of course, the environment has become more polluted. Business sustainability faces a bigger challenge than ever before because for them to do good business they need to be better corporate citizens and ensure that the profits only do not determine their strategies and goals. With this background, adopting a qualitative approach with an in-depth literature review, the aim of this chapter is to revisit governance theories for understanding the nexus and intersection between ESG and sustainability.
Renewable Energy Sources in Sustainable Growth
Authors: Fajdetić Barbara , Festić Mejra
Published: April 2024

The adoption of the Paris Agreement and the EU Green Deal has put the European Union on the path to a low-carbon, sustainable economy. As one of the key points to achieve sustainable economic growth, the low-carbon transition requires the use of renewable energy sources and the increase of energy efficiency. The aim of this study is therefore to analyse the impact of a higher share of renewable energy sources and energy efficiency on economic growth. The panel data analysis was conducted for 27 EU Member States in the period 2009-2021. The results show a statistically significant and positive relationship between renewable energy sources and energy efficiency and economic growth. This means that sustainable development can only be achieved by taking into account the environmental component, which attracts investment and boosts economic growth.
Logistics Distribution Route Optimization With Time Windows Based on Multi-Agent Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Yu Fahong , Chen Meijia , Xia Xiaoyun , Zhu Dongping , Peng Qiang , Deng Kuibiao
Published: April 2024

Multi-depot vehicle routing problem with time windows (MDVRPTW) is a valuable practical issue in urban logistics. However, heuristic methods may fail to generate high-quality solutions for massive problems instantly. Thus, this article presents a novel reinforcement learning algorithm integrated with a multi-head attention mechanism and a local search strategy to solve the problem efficiently. The routing optimization was regarded as a vehicle tour generation process and an encoder-decoder was used to generate routes for vehicles departing from different depots iteratively. A multi-head attention strategy was employed for mining complex spatiotemporal correlations within time windows in the encoder. Then, a decoder with multi-agent was designed to generate solutions by optimizing reward and observing transition state. Meanwhile, a local search strategy was employed to improve the quality of solutions. The experiments results demonstrate that the proposed method can significantly outperform traditional methods in effectiveness and robustness.
Outcomes of bailout use of continuous positive airway pressure in patients with severe COVID-19 respiratory failure
Authors: Giannone Alberto , Piazza Isabelle , Preti Carlo , Pisano Eleonora , Ghirardi Arianna , Benetti Alberto , Fagiuoli Stefano , Lorini Ferdinando L. , Rizzi Marco , Di Marco Fabiano , Cosentini Roberto
Published: April 2024

During the first wave of the Coronavirus-19 (COVID-19) pandemic, due to an overflow of patients in the ICU, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) was used as a last resort to mechanical ventilation. The purpose of this study is to evaluate prognostic factors in COVID-19 severe respiratory failure patients treated with helmet CPAP. We reviewed the medical records of COVID-19 respiratory failure patients treated with H-CPAP at the Emergency Department from February 23rd to March 14th, 2020. A total of 202 (40%) patients admitted for respiratory failure due to COVID-19 pneumonia were considered. 129 (64%) patients received H-CPAP, while 73 (36%) required endotracheal intubation and invasive mechanical ventilation despite initial H-CPAP. 99 patients (49%) died. The mortality rate in the IMV group was 37%, compared to 56% in the group that received only H-CPAP (p= 0.004). The age and comorbidities of patients in the two groups differed significantly (p < 0.001). Age and PaO2/FiO2 were identified as the only independent risk factors for death. Identifying these independent predictors of mortality in patients with acute respiratory insufficiency may help clinicians optimize treatment escalation.
A rare symptom of foodborne botulism: dysgeusia. Case report and clinical review
Authors: Esposito Simone , Coletta Francesco , Di Maiolo Giovanna , Lo Chiatto Filomena , Rinaldi Pasquale , Lanza Anna , Panico Getano , Sala Crescenzo , Tomasello Antonio , Villani Romolo
Published: April 2024

Clostridium botulinum has become one of the most well-known microorganisms in medical history, thanks to both fatal botulism epidemics and the recent medical use of botulinum neurotoxin. It is a Gram-positive, anaerobic, spore-forming bacterium that causes classic foodborne botulism, infant botulism, wound botulism, and intestinal colonization botulism, a serious neuroparalytic disease. The most common type of botulism is foodborne botulism, which is caused by eating botulinum toxin-contaminated foods. Just a few micrograms of toxin are enough to cause symptoms and, if untreated, death. Rapid diagnosis of the condition is critical to avoiding fatal outcomes. This article describes a clinical case of a patient who presented to us in June with typical symptoms of botulism. Early clinical diagnosis is based on a thorough medical history, including a meticulous reconstruction of the patient's food history in the days preceding symptom onset, as well as a careful physical examination, which can be highly suggestive of botulinum intoxication. Botulism treatment consists of symptom control, mechanical respiratory support, and Botulinum Antitoxin (BAT) administered intravenously. Epidemiological investigation is critical for quickly identifying the food vehicle causing the intoxication.
Debating claims of fact in public health: A pedagogical activity
Authors: Crowe Julie Homchick
Published: April 2024

This pedagogical activity asks instructors or workshop administrators to guide students through the process of evaluating evidence used in recurring health misinformation. Taking an approach based in argumentation and debate, instructors will facilitate understanding of how to evaluate evidence using specific criteria. Students are asked to develop cases to refute or defend a factual claim about human health, construct oral and written arguments for their case, and share them with other students who will evaluate the strength and quality of evidence used by each side. Ultimately, students will learn to: i) Understand how arguments are constructed that both support and refute a health claim; ii) develop strategies to evaluate evidence used for both sides of a claim of fact; and iii) know how to identify health misinformation, particularly in an online context.
Hepatitis B virus genotypes in precision medicine of hepatitis B-related hepatocellular carcinoma: Where we are now
Authors: Sukowati Caecilia H C , Jayanti Sri , Turyadi Turyadi , Muljono David H , Tiribelli Claudio
Published: April 2024

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major player in chronic hepatitis B that may lead to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HBV genetics are diverse where it is classified into at least 9 genotypes (A to I) and 1 putative genotype (J), each with specific geographical distribution and possible different clinical outcomes in the patient. This diversity may be associated with the precision medicine for HBV-related HCC and the success of therapeutical approaches against HCC, related to different pathogenicity of the virus and host response. This Editorial discusses recent updates on whether the classification of HBV genetic diversity is still valid in terms of viral oncogenicity to the HCC and its precision medicine, in addition to the recent advances in cellular and molecular biology technologies.