bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
All Things Summed Up Into Christ: On the Christological Impetus of Lesslie Newbigin’s Missional-ecumenical Project
Authors: van Driel Edwin Chr.
Published: August 2024

This essay unearths the metaphor from the Epistle to the Ephesians of ‘all things summed up into Christ’ as a critical component of Lesslie Newbigin’s Christology. First, it shows that references to this image form an as yet undetected but consistent line of thought in Newbigin’s work. Second, it argues that the logic of Newbigin’s theological imaginary follows the logic embedded in the Ephesians metaphor. Third, it shows that detecting the particular shape of Newbigin’s Christology allows one to map his project onto wider Christological conversations, and it suggests that one most fruitfully reads him in the context of a supralapsarian Christological approach. Finally, it argues that read in this way, Newbigin’s work can once again make a fresh contribution to the conversation as contemporary practitioners are looking for a new narrative to support their work in this missional era.
Taxonomic studies on the genus Ophiopogon (Asparagaceae) I:—identity of O. albimarginatus and O. pseudotonkinensis, and a new species O. guangzhouensis from Guangdong, China
Authors: GAN XIN-JUN , FENG HUI-ZHE , CHEN HUAN-JIN , ZHONG PING-SHENG , FAN QIANG
Published: August 2024

One new species of Ophiopogon, O. guangzhouensis, from Guangdong Province in southern China, is described and illustrated. The new species is similar to O. bockianus, but differs markedly by its pedicel (1.3–1.7 cm long) longer than the stalky part of the floral base, adjacent anthers and filaments all completely connate, and style exerted beyond the tepals. This paper not only details their taxonomic features and relationships among similar species, but also provides data on the habitat and phenology of the new species. Based on critical observations on herbarium specimens (including type material) of nine other similar species, we also demonstrate that O. pseudotonkinensis is conspecific with O. bockianus and O. albimarginatus is synonymous with O. stenophyllus. We therefore reduce O. pseudotonkinensis and O. albimarginatus to the synonymy of O. bockianus and O. stenophyllus respectively.
Study on the Effect of Rhubarb and Its Active Components on Pyroptosis in DKD by Regulating STAT3/Caspase-11 Axis
Authors: Mao Yanwen , Zhang Minghao , Zhang Zijuan , Zhang Xiaowei , Rong Wenhui , Zhang Juan , Yang Mengmeng , Xu Jiangyan
Published: August 2024

Rhubarb has been found to have a certain protective effect on improving the kidney function. However, the specific mechanism is still unclear. In this study, network pharmacology, molecular docking spontaneous binding technology and molecular biology experiments were used to verify the mechanism of rhubarb and its active ingredients in the treatment of DKD. A total of 10 active compounds and 121 (larger than average) target proteins were collected. The target proteins with higher degree value were screened by PPI according to degree value as follows: AKT1, STAT3, EGFR, NFKB1, SRC, etc. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis suggest that rhubarb therapy for DKD mainly involves Pathways in cancer, Prostate cancer, Proteoglycans in cancer, Chemokine signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, PD-L1 expression and PD-1 checkpoint pathway in cancer, EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance signaling pathway and so on. Furthermore, molecular docking results suggest that hydrogen bonding, salt bridge and hydrophobic interactions contribute to spontaneous binding of the compound to the target protein. Experimental verification shows that rhubarb and aloe emodin affect the mechanism of pyroptosis in diabetic kidney disease by regulating STAT3/Caspase11 axis. In conclusion, this study comprehensively elaborated the active compounds, potential targets and molecular experimental mechanisms of rhubarb to provide the basic experimental theory for clinical treatment of DKD.
Assessment of Zitterbewegung Interpretation for Free Particle Solution Using the Concept of Relativistic Wave
Authors: Ugwu Emmanuel
Published: August 2024

The Assessment of the interpretation of Zitterbewegung for free particle solution using various models has been carried out in this work where we firstly considered by using the free particle solution for which Dirac equation and projection operator were carried out.. ln this case, it was invariably revealed that the solution have two doubly degenerate eigenvalues representing positive and negative state that was further support by the analysis which was carried out using Heisenberg’s equation and the representation in relativistic velocity and semi-classical equation of motion for acceleration., but in this second case, the results obtained were observed to have two terms, first terms standing in for rapidly oscillatory motion and the second term representing average motion of the particle in x-direction. The first term in the expression is the one deemed to signify zitterbewegung which is one considered to be sas a result of the fluctuation resulting from the interference between negative and positive energy state while the other term is the normal state terms signifying the average motion of the particle. This therefore confirms the explicit nature of using Dirac equation in handling problems involving the behavior of free particles in field as compared to the use of semiclassical equation of motion.
A Case Study on the Community ART Group Model of Care: Does It work for People Living with HIV and Healthcare Service Providers in Lesotho
Authors: Tsehloane Setungoane , Nyangu Isabel
Published: August 2024

The Community ART Group (CAG) model is a community-led model implemented to support people living with HIV to address barriers to HIV treatment continuity which remain a challenge in Lesotho. This study sought to explore the perspectives of people living with HIV and that of the healthcare service providers, regarding the CAG model in selected health facilities in Lesotho. An explorative descriptive qualitative study was conducted among purposively selected 20 people living with HIV and 8 healthcare service providers at 3 healthcare facilities. Qualitative data were collected through face-to-face in-depth interviews using semi-structured interview guides. All interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was used following an inductive approach and sub-themes and themes were developed. The CAG model was relevant and acceptable to most of the respondents. They felt that it provided support to people living with HIV, promoted good adherence to treatment, improved treatment access, reduced transport costs, saved time, and reduced stigma. Good retention, favorable clinical outcomes and decongestion of health facilities were identified as key achievements linked to the CAG model. Age, proximity to the health facilities, readiness to disclose positive HIV status, availability of a variety of differentiated service delivery models, family support, and the level of trust emerged as factors affecting the acceptability of the model. Conflicts arising among members of the groups compromised service delivery quality and insufficient resources emerged as challenges. The results confirmed that the Community ART Group model can deliver intended peer-led support to People Living with HIV, resulting in the achievement of favorable clinical outcomes. It is therefore recommendable to consider investing in this community-led model for a sustained HIV response in the country.
Measurement of Energy Expenditure Using a Triaxial Accelerometer and Estimation of Energy Intake from Dietary Records During Decathlon Competition Days
Authors: Yoshitake Rikako , Yamagami Ayako , Obayashi Taro , Ogata Hitomi , Omi Naomi
Published: August 2024

Background: Energy requirement (ER) for a competition day depends on the amount of energy consumed. Planning energy intake strategies is particularly important for decathlon athletes, who compete in track and field events over two days. However, few studies have reported how decathletes manage their energy intake. The aim of this study was to estimate the total energy intake (TEI) and total energy expenditure (TEE) of decathletes during competition days, considering with specific factors related to energy balance (EB). Methods: Eight athletes were analyzed who completed the decathlon in official track and field events. The TEI was calculated using photographs of all the food and beverages consumed by the athlete. TEE was estimated using a triaxial accelerometer-based method. The EB was calculated by the difference between TEI and TEE. Results: Over the two competition days (48 hours), the TEE for decathlon athletes was 7,984±202 kcal, with a negative EB observed on Day 2. The physical activity level (PAL) exceeded 2.3 on each day of the competition. EB was more strongly associated with TEI/kg than with TEE/kg, and was negative on Day 2. Conclusion: Competition days for decathlon athletes involve high intensity exercise. On Day 2 of the competition and the following competition day, there might be an energy deficiency. It is necessary to focus on strategies for energy intake after the competition ends in the future.
The Role and Forms of Financing from the Ebrd - Focusing on Kosovo During the Years 2013-2020
Authors: Badallaj Albrim
Published: August 2024

This paper analyzes the roles of European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) strategic financing in Kosovo from 2013 to 2020, focusing on economic impacts and development progress. Using a quantitative and comparative approach, this study uses secondary data analysis, supported by statistical tools in Microsoft Excel, to assess the effectiveness of EBRD investments in different sectors within Kosovo. Statistical and comparative data shows the sectors and amounts of support from the EBRD for Kosovo over the years, both before and after its admission to the EBRD. A retrospective of the history of the establishment of the EBRD, the operation process of its banking system, the way the bank finances projects and its impact on the economic development of a country, namely Kosovo, was also discussed. The findings reveal significant EBRD investments, mainly in SMEs and infrastructure, contributing to competitive gains and sustainable development. The study details the volume of investments and their distribution across different sectors, highlighting key impacts on employment and green energy initiatives. This research enriches the literature on the roles of international financial institutions in post-conflict economic development by providing a nuanced understanding of the EBRD's strategic priorities and operational outcomes in transition economies. The practical implications of the study provide policy makers and development agencies with insights into practical strategies for leveraging international finance for economic growth and sustainability. Recommendations are given to increase the focus on renewable energy and infrastructure, in line with the global goals of sustainable development.
Factors Associated with Family Planning: A Secondary Analysis of Senegal's DHS 2019
Authors: Sougou Ndeye , Ba Mouhamadou , Ouari El , Lopez Fatou , Diallo Amadou , Diop Cheikh , Seck Ibrahima
Published: August 2024

Background. In Senegal, despite numerous interventions, the family planning rate has stagnated since 2016. The aim of this study is to analyze the determinants of modern contraceptive use in Senegal in 2019. Methods. This study is a secondary analysis of data from the 2019 Senegal Demographic and Health Survey. The sample consisted of 8998 women aged 15 to 49 years. Univariate, bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed. The dependent variable was the use of a modern contraceptive method (yes/no). STATA.15 software was used. Results. Women using any method of contraception accounted for 18.8%. Those using long-acting methods were more numerous, with implants (37.4%) and injections (29.6%) respectively. Women using the pill were 14.8%. The majority of women had received information about family planning from television (46%) and radio (42.2%). The factors associated with modern contraception were age, women's education (ORaj 1.48 [1.21-1.81]), marital status (ORaj 7.18 [5.29-9.74]), average (ORaj 1.58 [1.18-2.12]) and high (1.62 [1.15-2.27]) socioeconomic status, and receipt of information by radio (ORaj 1.31 [1.08-1.58]). Conclusion. This study has shown that, as part of a multisectoral approach, decision-makers should strengthen women's empowerment (education and income-generating activities). Radio should also be given priority as a means of promoting family planning in Senegal.
A Proposed Frame Work for Enhancing Competitiveness of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
Authors: Tamirat Henok
Published: August 2024

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are important agents of development throughout the world. Promoting a country’s SME sector plays a crucial role in maintaining high employment and income generation and is therefore critical for achieving sustainable grow by enhancing SMEs competitiveness. The general objective of this paper is to develop a theoretical frame work model for garment SMEs competitiveness that supports garment manufacturing small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to enhance their competitiveness by identifying the possible competitiveness factors. To achieve the presented objectives, a purposive sample basis on selected garments manufacturing SMEs found at three different clusters in Addis Abeba city administration is used. The data in this paper are both primary and secondary data. Primary data was collected though questionnaires, interviews and observations, while secondary data sources referred from company’s documents and several articles from reputable international journals. Both qualitative and quantitative approaches are used to analyse the collected data using various statistical programs. The results of the paper found that in garment manufacturing SMEs the main difficulties faced in performance dimension which is divided into financial performance and non-financial performance are the lack of collateral, the lack of proven track records, the lack of proper business plans and the need to show good sales turnover are the major financial performance parameters that deters the competitiveness. The SMEs do not have well established system to support effective and efficient implementation systems for productivity improvement. Finally the garment manufacturing SMEs are potentially wasting valuable and scarce resources since they don’t implement productivity improvement tools and techniques Lack of appropriate machinery and equipment are the main non-financial performance parameter that deters the competitiveness. To tackle the problems and enhance competitiveness of garment manufacturing firms, a theoretical conceptual model based on this requirement has been developed and the implementation requires a coordinated and well organized system among the actors (at macro and micro level) in the value chain. Some of the major problems such as lack of skilled manpower and infrastructure have to be tackled by the government and private sectors. And the other problems could be approached by using some modern management philosophies (such as just-in-time manufacturing, business process re-engineering, lean production) and scientific methods like production planning and control.
Reproductive Biotechnology Tools as a Game Changer for the Dairy Sector: The Case of Sexed Semen and Estrus Synchronization to Produce Seedstock Dairy Heifers
Authors: Ali Sayid , Degefa Tamrat , Funga Asnaku , Dire Mosisa , Mohamed Ayda , Yeshaneh Asmarech
Published: August 2024

Human curiosity about the sexual orientation of living things has a long history. For thousands of years, livestock owners wanted to find a suitable way to predict the sex of the progeny to be born for their herds on their farm. Thanks to the development of semen sexing technology, animal breeding has undergone a revolution, which allows farmers to control the sex of their offspring. Sexed semen enhances overall productivity and also assists farmers in meeting the rising demand for high-quality dairy animals by enabling them to selectively generate seedstock female calves. The technology is a one-stop solution to enhance breed improvement especially in a country like Ethiopia where 97 percent of the cattle population is indigenous, which is not selected for milk production and results in undernourishment for animal source origin diet, including milk and meat. The benefits of using sexed semen include sex selection, improved genetic selection, enhanced breeding effectiveness, better control over herd dynamics, greater financial gains, environmental sustainability, and improved animal welfare. Hence, with the finding of this study, an overall result of a 98% response rate 95% female skewness, and 79% conception rate was recorded after being inseminated with sexed semen. The finding of the response rate is closer to the results reported by another researcher, while the average conception rate is comparatively higher. This could be due to careful animal selection, the use of fertile quality semen, proper heat detection, and inseminating at an optimum window of time. In general, from the piece of this study, it is possible to foresee and conclude that the adoption and application of sexed semen technology is a groundbreaking and game-changer technology for the dairy industry in a country like Ethiopia, which overcomes the limitations of improved crossbred dairy cattle, replacement heifers, and high milk prices on the one hand, a shortage of grazing land, and environmental destruction due to a decreasing number of unwanted cattle population on the other side.
Knowledge and Attitude of the Waste Handlers on Healthcare Waste in Bo Government Hospital Southern Sierra Leone
Authors: George Tony , Braima Peter , Kamara Idris
Published: August 2024

Hospital waste poses risks to patients and waste disposal personnel and poses a threat to public health and the environment. Medical waste management is a new issue that is made worse by a lack of funding, knowledge and training to support solutions. Since these wastes have the potential to directly affect environmental health risks as well as public health risks, their collection and treatment are crucial. Therefore, this study was designed to assess the knowledge and attitude of the waste handlers on healthcare waste generated in Bo Government Hospital. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the health impact of medical waste management at Bo Government Hospital in Sierra Leone. The author used mixed methods to combine semi-structured and self-administered quantitative questionnaires with physicians, nurses, pharmacists, laboratory technicians, cleaners, and residents. Near the hospital. A sample of 100 medical staff and residents living near the hospital was taken from Bo Government Hospital using a simple random sampling technique to collect data. Raw data come in a variety of forms, including measurements, questionnaire responses, and observations, and results are presented in tables, graphs, and verbatim using the Statistical Package for Science (SPSS) to present and analyze the collected data. All units participated in data collection, with Human Resources (HR) and laboratories identified as generating more waste, followed by Nursing and Main Theater, where nurses accounted for the majority (n = 27) of respondents participating in the survey. research, followed by cleaners. (n = 13) and CHO (10), the majority of whom were between the ages of 40 and 50 (35%). Some cleaners reported placing their hands on what were identified as major risk factors, endangering workers, despite significant efforts being made to ensure bags were securely tied (81.5%) and carts were washed and disinfected (66.2%). Garbage is not emptied during the day with trolleys (58.5%) being the common means of transportation, while 29.2% handle garbage directly, which can pose a risk. However, 62% of respondents had received formal training in medical waste management. It was recommended that the Ministry of Health continues to organize training courses, especially for cleaning personnel and lower-level employees who have direct daily contact with this waste.
Earth Observation Data to Support Post-Hazard Damage Assessment: A Case Study of the Appiatse Explosion in Ghana
Authors: Tagoe Naa , Ashun Ebenezer
Published: August 2024

On Thursday, January 20, 2022, a motorbike allegedly collided with a truck carrying about 10 tonnes of ammonium nitrate explosives. The explosion caused a blast that created an 18 m diameter crater at the centre of the road and leveled almost the entire village of Appiatse, located in the Prestea Huni Valley District in the Western Region of Ghana. During such disasters, whether natural or anthropogenic, rapid assessment is crucial for an appropriate and effective emergency response. The Appiatse incident resulted in detrimental environmental damage, including the dispersion of particulate matter, dust, soil, and water pollution in the catchment area. Similarly, the high levels of ground vibration caused by the incident resulted in the razing down of most of the structures which were constructs of wattle and daub plastered with concrete. Earth observation (EO) technologies, such as satellite imagery and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) data, play a crucial role in disaster management by providing accurate and detailed assessments of damage, enabling effective emergency response and recovery efforts. The impact of the Appiatse explosion was detected by the Enhanced Pollution Management (EPM) EO service, piloted in Ghana, through a time-series analysis. In this research, a damage assessment was carried out using EO data. A collection of Sentinel-2 (10 m resolution) optical satellite images, Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) images, and aerial images obtained from a UAV survey (3 cm resolution) were used for the analysis. The damage assessment map of Appiatse provides insights into the extent and severity of the impact, demonstrating the value of integrating various EO data sources for detailed post-hazard damage assessment. The findings from the current research highlight the lack of compliance with the protocols for the transport of hazardous chemicals in Ghana and highlight the need to strictly adhere to safety protocols prescribed by relevant authorities to ensure environmental safety and curb such incidents in the future.
What Works for the Youth: Analysis of Youth Employment Policies in Rwanda
Authors: Muhanguzi Kibs
Published: August 2024

In Rwanda, over 75 percent of youth are not in education, employment and training (NEET). These are mostly absorbed in the informal sector that provides little or no protection to workers against shocks, and are prone to several socio-economic, technical, and financial constraints. Through desk review of existing policies and studies, key informant interviews (KIIs), and focus group discussions (FGDs), this study reviews and analyzes the existing youth employment policies (YEPs) and interventions with intent to identify the hurdles and outcomes of the actual implementation of these YEPs in Rwanda. Youths aged 18 to 30, policy makers, policy implementers, and implementing partners were the key target respondents. The study finds a multitude of YEPs and interventions to promote youth education and skilling, entrepreneurship, and business development funding; though most of them are more focused on supply than demand-side of the labor market, with limited vulnerable youth inclusivity. Common hurdles encountered during implementation of YEPs include: poor coordination among the vast YEPs causing monitoring challenges both at national and district level, and duplication of services. Difficulty to integrate education and skilling into decent youth employment, matching labor laws with youth welfare, cultural bias limiting young women from participating in some labor market activities, funding gaps, and limited youth engagement during program design. Addressing these challenges requires a well-coordinated stakeholder engagement, and strong collaboration between the public and private sector, as well as civil society organizations.
The Performing Team in a Theatrical Performance and Their Tourism Value: Atilogwu Dancers a Case Study
Authors: Uwaoma Chinwe
Published: August 2024

In relation to tourism theatre or theatrical performances has become one of the media through which tourists especially heritage tourists have personal encounter with traditions, history and culture. This is because the heritage tourists wants an authentic experience which theatre or theatrical performances to a great extent is sure to communicate to the tourists. To this end theatrical performances or theatre has components which has been noted by scholars in tourism studies. These components include storytelling, market positioning/strategy, performing team and outdoor/indoor venues. Each of these components have their tourism value. However, for the purpose of this article, the tourism value of the performing team in a theatrical performance is x-rayed and how it relates to Atilogwu dancers is examined. The tourism value of a performing team lies in the performers abilities and these includes: professionalism, good coordination and expression of emotion. These abilities combined together gives satisfaction to the tourist(s). In essence when a tourist(s) is watching an Atilogwu dancer perform, the expectation is not just about entertainment but about professionalism, good coordination and expression of emotion. The Atilogwu dancer is expected to embody these skills in his or her performance thereby giving the tourist reasons to look out for a repeat performance. This is what this article is about.
New Functional Orbital-free Within DFT for Metallic Systems
Authors: Urso Vittoria
Published: August 2024

I present the continuation of a study on Laplacian Level Kinetic Energy (KE) functionals applied to metallic nanosystems. The development of novel Kinetic Energy functionals is an important topic in density functional theory (DFT). The nanoparticles are patterned using gelatin spheres of different sizes, background density and number of electrons. To reproduce the correct kinetic and potential energy density of the various nanoparticles, the use of semilocal descriptors is necessary. Need an explicit density functional expression for the kinetic energy of electrons, including the first e second functional derivative, i.e. the kinetic potential and the kinetic kernel, respectively. The exact explicit form of the non interacting kinetic energy, as a functional of the electron density, is known only for the homogeneous electron gas (HEG), i.e., the Thomas-Fermi (TF) local functional and for 1 and 2 electron systems, i.e., the von Weizsacker (VW) functional. In between these two extreme cases, different semilocal or non local approximations were developed in recent years. Most semilocal KE functionals are based on modifications of the second-order gradient expansion (GE2) or fourth-order gradient expansion (GE4). I find that the Laplacian contribute is fundamental for the description of the energy and the potential of nanoparticles. I propose a new LAP2 semilocal functional which, better than the previous ones, allows us to obtain fewer errors both of energy and potential. More details of the previous calculations can be found in my 2 previous works which will be cited in the text.
Sustainable Transportation System for Rajshahi City, Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain Muhammad , Hia Shafiun , Prova Nisat
Published: August 2024

The ultimate objective of this project is to make a meaningful contribution to the ongoing research on sustainable development and to aid in developing and implementing an efficient transportation system that effectively tackles the challenges of mobility and environmental security challenges in the bustling city of Rajshahi. As part of this effort, our paper will present a comprehensive overview of recent advancements and key findings in the field of sustainable transportation. In the process, the paper will offer an overview of some of the most recent and useful developments in the subject of study. One of the key challenges in achieving sustainable transportation in Rajshahi is the inadequate road infrastructure, such as ill-defined road markings, lack or insufficiency of traffic signs, and rampant illegal parking, particularly in peripheral areas. These factors not only hinder smooth traffic flow but also threaten the safety of drivers, increasing their vulnerability to accidents. Additionally, they contribute to traffic congestion and other inconveniences for commuters. Hence, it is imperative to adopt a holistic approach to tackling these issues to promote sustainable transportation within Rajshahi City. This requires collaboration between various stakeholders and implementing comprehensive solutions that address multiple facets of sustainable transportation. Only through such concerted efforts can we effectively overcome the challenges hindering efficient mobility in Rajshahi.
Genotype by Environment Interaction and Stability Analysis for Grain Yield in White Seeded Tef [Eragrostis tef (zucc.)Trotter] Genotypes in Western Oromia, Ethiopia
Authors: Chemeda Girma , Bakala Natol
Published: August 2024

Tef [Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter L.] is a most important cereal crop in Ethiopia in terms of production, consumption and cash. The study was carried out to investigate grain yield stability and genotype by environment interaction for 18 genotypes conducted in the potential high land areas of Western Oromia, Ethiopia for two consecutive years (2020 to 2021) using Randomized Complete Block Experimental Design with three replications. The study of variance for grain yield using the AMMI model indicated highly significant variation for genotypes, environment, and genotype-environment interactions. Environment accounted for 18.7% of the variance in grain yield, 17.9% for genotypes, and 61.5% for genotypes. The first IPCA component accounted for 47.9% of the interaction effect and revealed the two models were fit. Genotypes G15, G10, G4, G1, and G3 had the lowest AMMI stability value (ASV), indicating stability; genotypes G16, G14, G9, G7, G2, and G5 had the highest ASV value, indicating instability. From over all analysis genotype G1 and G3, showed a high mean grain yield, lowest GSI, ASV and stable compared to other genotypes in the study. As a result, G1 and G3 were identified as the best genotypes for future breeding programs and potential release in Western Oromia, Ethiopia's highlands.
Technology Adoption Motivation Among Organic Cocoa Farmers in Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Ogunya Lydia
Published: August 2024

The study assessed the level of organic farming among cocoa farmers; examined the factors influencing the decision to adoption; and intensity of use of organic farming adoption in Southwest, Nigeria. Using a multi-stage sampling technique, primary data were gathered from 300 organic cocoa growers in the study area. The data were analysed using the double hurdle model, which consists of two stages: the first stage determines the factors that influence the decision to adopt organic farming, and the second stage determines the factors that influence the intensity of use of organic farming. The decision to adopt organic farming practices among cocoa farmers was influenced positively and significantly by labour (mandays), credit accessibility and extension visit. However, farm size, farming experience were negative and significant at p<0.01. Intensity of use of organic farming adoption was positively influenced by three factors: labour (mandays), credit accessibility (p<0.01) and extension visits (p<0.05) and negatively influenced by farming experience (p<0.05). The study concluded that organic cocoa farming practices were influenced by various socio-economic and institutional factors, and that these practices had a positive impact on the efficiency and profitability of cocoa farmers. The study recommended that policies should be implemented to enhance the access to credit, extension services, labour and organic inputs for cocoa farmers, as well as to create awareness and incentives for organic farming in the region.
Inquiry Learning as an Effort to Improve Results
Authors: Kandiri Kandiri , Nurwahidin Muhammad , Aransyah Ade
Published: August 2024

The inquiry learning process should be seen as a stimulus that can challenge students to feel involved or participate in learning activities both in digesting, observing, analyzing, responding and answering problems that are being experienced. Any learning carried out by a teacher has the aim of achieving maximum learning outcomes, so he must master the material taught using a variety of learning methods in general (lectures, discussions, questions and answers, giving assignments) and specifics such as effective and fun inquiry (PAIKEM) in order to boost student learning outcomes. The condition of students when learning Islamic Religious Education subjects (not serious about carrying out assignments, reluctant to ask questions, argue, connect subject matter with the real world, students' ability to accept lessons is low) so that learning outcomes are not optimal. The various obstacles above can be found alternative solutions with the creativity of the teacher to package Islamic Religious Education subject matter using the inquiry method in the hope that learning outcomes will improve better than before.
Cell Mergers, Boundary Interactions, and Convective Systems in Cases of Significant Tornadoes and Hail
Authors: Nixon Cameron J. , Allen John T. , Wilson Matthew B. , Bunkers Matthew J. , Taszarek Mateusz
Published: August 2024

Though discrete supercells are usually emphasized in severe weather forecasting, hazard production is often preceded by their interaction with external features. Past studies have examined the impacts of cell mergers, boundaries, other supercells, convective systems, etc. but usually in isolation. Here, we investigate 230 significant tornadoes, 246 significant hail events, and 191 null cases across the United States using WSR-88D data. We find that in over 90% of cases, supercells that produced significant hazards were accompanied by external features. These features varied between hazards; for example, hailstorms were more frequently near boundaries than tornadic storms. That said, the positions of these features with respect to the storm (and storm-relative inflow) distinguished between hazard potential and type. For example, tornadic storms were predominantly on the more unstable side of a boundary, while nontornadic storms and hailstorms were on the less unstable side. Similarly, tornadic storms had more cells in their rear flanks than forward flanks, while hailstorms had more cells in their forward flanks than rear flanks. Although these conditions were observed regardless of the background environment, they were affected by certain variables in the vertical profile, especially in tornadic cases. Namely, when storm-relative inflow was stronger and lifting condensation level (LCL) was lower, tornadic storms were accompanied by more rear-flank cells that were closer to the storm, more directly opposite the storm-relative inflow, for a longer period of time. We propose that these interactions likely modulate hazard potential, in ways that are not accounted for in traditional environmental parameter-based forecasting.
Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) leaves as natural colorant for cotton dyeing using an ecofriendly approach toward industrial progress
Authors: Batool Fatima , Iqbal Naeem , Adeel Shahid , Azeem Muhammad , Hussaan Muhammad , Mia Rony
Published: August 2024

In the industrial sector, vegetable residual materials have received attention in the production of bio-colorant for textile dyeing. The current research endeavor is centered on investigating the possibility of using sugar beet leaves as a natural source of dye for the purpose of dyeing cotton fabrics. Different extraction methods were utilized to isolate the bio-colorant present in sugar beet residual material, and the most favorable colorant yield was obtained using a 5% methanolic KOH solution. For optimal dyeing results, the cotton fabric performed dyeing for a duration of 45 min at a temperature of 60 °C, using a salt solution concentration of 6 g/100 mL and 50 mL of the extracted dye solution. Characterization of dye using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis confirmed the presence of quercetin in the leaf extract. For the creation of a range of color variations, mordants that were chemical in nature, such as tannic acid, iron sulfate, potassium dichromate, and copper sulfate, as well as mordants that were bio-based, such as onion peel, pomegranate peel, henna, golden shower bark, and turmeric, were employed in harmony. In comparison, the utilization of bio-mordants resulted in darker shades that exhibited enhanced color intensity and superior color fastness properties with the value of 4–5 for wash, 4 for wet rubbing, 4–5 for dry rubbing, and 4–5 for light. The findings of this study hold significant value in terms of ecofriendly waste management and contribute to advancements in the industrial sector by utilizing waste residual materials as a natural source of colorants.
Slow sound mode prediction and band structure calculation in 1D phononic crystal nanobeams using an artificial neural network
Authors: Hsiao Fu-Li , Yang Yen-Tung , Lin Wen-Kai , Tsai Ying-Pin
Published: August 2024

Phononic crystals, which are artificial crystals formed by the periodic arrangement of materials with different elastic coefficients in space, can display modulated sound waves propagating within them. Similar to the natural crystals used in semiconductor research with electronic bandgaps, phononic crystals exhibit the characteristics of phononic bandgaps. A gap design can be utilized to create various resonant cavities, confining specific resonance modes within the defects of the structure. In studies on phononic crystals, phononic band structure diagrams are often used to investigate the variations in phononic bandgaps and elastic resonance modes. As the phononic band frequencies vary nonlinearly with the structural parameters, numerous calculations are required to analyze the gap or mode frequency shifts in phononic band structure diagrams. However, traditional calculation methods are time-consuming. Therefore, this study proposes the use of neural networks to replace the time-consuming calculation processes of traditional methods. Numerous band structure diagrams are initially obtained through the finite-element method and serve as the raw dataset, and a certain proportion of the data is randomly extracted from the dataset for neural network training. By treating each mode point in the band structure diagram as an independent data point, the training dataset for neural networks can be expanded from a small number to a large number of band structure diagrams. This study also introduces another network that effectively improves mode prediction accuracy by training neural networks to focus on specific modes. The proposed method effectively reduces the cost of repetitive calculations.
Compressive strength performance of 3D printed PLA/almond shell particles reinforced PLA multi-material composite
Authors: Saravanamuthukumar P. , Kaaviya J. , Palaniyappan Sabarinathan , Sivakumar Narain Kumar , Bodaghi Mahdi , Rahaman Mostafizur , Pandiaraj Saravanan
Published: August 2024

The advent of 3D printing has revolutionized the manufacturing landscape, enabling the creation of intricate structures and personalized designs. The use of multi-material polymer composites in additive manufacturing has further expanded possibilities, offering enhanced mechanical properties and advanced functionalities. In the present study, PLA/Almond shell reinforced PLA (PLA/AmdPLA) multi-material composites were developed using Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) method. The objective of this study is to develop the multi-material and optimize the 3D-Printing Parameters (3D-PP) with respect to Printing Speed (PS), Layer Height (LH), and Printing Temperature (PT), in order to maximize the compressive strength of the composites. The L16 Taguchi orthogonal array was established to systematically study the effects of the 3D-PP on the compressive strength. Through a series of experiments, varying the levels of each 3D-PP, data was collected and analyzed to determine the optimal 3D-PP settings. The results demonstrate that the PLA/AmdPLA multi-material composites achieved its maximum compressive strength when fabricated at a PS of 20 mm/sec, a LH of 0.1 mm, and a PT of 210°C. Furthermore, the findings revealed that the PS and LH significantly influenced the compressive strength, while the PT exhibited moderate effects. The regression analysis results indicate that the compression experiments conducted on the PLA/AmdPLA multi-material composites yielded an error percentage of 4.73%. This suggests a strong agreement between the predicted values obtained from the regression model and the actual experimental results which shows that the model has high accuracy. Therefore, these functional composite materials are recognized for their superior strength, lightweight properties, appealing aesthetics, and sustainable qualities in various consumer applications.
Redéfinition d’une juste proximité entre patients et professionnels de santé dans le cadre d’une téléconsultation : une analyse par le sentiment de care
Authors: Loriot Amélie , Larceneux Fabrice , Guillard Valérie
Published: August 2024

Pensée comme une réponse à la question de l’accès au soin, la téléconsultation a connu un essor important ces dernières années. Mais cette pratique entraîne une modification de l’expérience de soin qui n’est pas neutre. Le soin à distance réinterroge ainsi la notion du « prendre soin ». Si la téléconsultation facilite la mise en contact entre patients et professionnels de santé, transforme-t-elle pour autant leur sentiment de soigner et d’être soigné ? En retenant une double focale patient–professionnel de santé, cette recherche mobilise le cadre théorique du care pour explorer la façon dont se restructurent les perceptions du « prendre soin ». L’analyse de 40 entretiens (24 patients et 16 professionnels de santé) permet de comprendre comment la transformation du cadre de la consultation modifie trois piliers du sentiment de care : fonctionnel, émotionnel et symbolique. Nos résultats illustrent enfin comment un réajustement de la relation, via des dynamiques de cocréation du parcours de soin, permet de restructurer ce sentiment de care, terreau dans lequel peut se reconfigurer une juste proximité entre les acteurs.
User Experiences With a Moderated Facebook Group to Promote Vaccination
Authors: Wysota Christina N. , Abroms Lorien C. , DeVarona Hanna , Koban Donald , Napolitano Melissa , Broniatowski David A.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

To examine user experiences in a moderated Facebook group intervention aimed at Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine promotion.

Design

Facebook group members were given 2-3 vaccination posts/day for 28 days (four weeks). Posts were aimed at educating about COVID-19 vaccination, soliciting concerns around COVID-19 vaccination, and engaging members. Participants were surveyed about their experience at four weeks.

Setting

Moderated Facebook group.

Participants

Unvaccinated individuals who were randomized to the intervention group and completed four week follow-up (N = 216, 82.1%).

Method

After four weeks, participants rated their experience in the Facebook group (eg, program satisfaction) and provided open-text responses about their satisfaction with the group. Free-text responses were dual coded and emergent themes were examined.

Results

On average, participants were 37.0 years old (SD = 10.3), majority female (70.9%), and white (79.7%). The majority of participants were satisfied with the group (76.7%), agreed that other people were friendly (M = 5.58/7), and felt safe discussing health information (M = 3.96/5). Open-text responses revealed that participants liked the program because they thought the information was useful (27.7%), other members were friendly (16.1%), and the group was a safe place (13.8%). While many responded that there was nothing they did not like about the program (37.6%), nearly one-third (31.9%) reported disliking the program because it appeared to be too much in favor of vaccination and because other members came across as rude (7.1%). Those with conservative political views were less likely to be satisfied with the group ( P = .04).

Conclusion

Facebook groups represent an acceptable way to engage participants to improve vaccination against COVID-19. Some aspects of the Facebook group could be improved for future iterations.
Eberhard Kranzmayer’s dovetailing with Nazism: His fascist years and the ‘One Standard German Axiom (OSGA)’
Authors: Dollinger Stefan
Published: August 2024

Eberhard Kranzmayer is arguably Austria’s most influential German dialectologist. The present article traces Kranzmayer’s Nazi years (NSDAP member number 8.061.495) in archival sources in Vienna, Graz, Munich, Klagenfurt and Berlin. This account reconstructs Kranzmayer’s role in the Nazi machine, especially his directorship of the ‘Institut für Kärntner Landesforschung’ [Institute for Carinthian Provincial Research]. Kranzmayer’s pan-German and völkisch orientations long predate his Nazi years; his studies under the Nazis are congruent with the positions he held pre- and, significantly, post-World War II. The new data presented here show that Kranzmayer’s second denazification proceedings was disingenuous. On the disciplinary level, Kranzmayer’s pan-German stance has had profound influence on the modelling of Austrian German, which today has caused many controversies; indeed, today, it seems tied inter alia to a ‘One Standard German Axiom’ (OSGA). It is argued that any materials that Kranzmayer collected, edited and published would need to be vetted by period historians for pan-German bias and mitigated before use.
Knowledge of the Stress–Health Link as a Source of Resilience Among Mexicans in the Arizona Borderlands
Authors: Crocker Rebecca M. , Duenas Karina R. , Castro Idolina , Ingram Maia , Torres Emma , Carvajal Scott C.
Published: August 2024

Mexicans who migrate to the United States endure significant stressors related to the migration process and social and environmental conditions of life in the United States. Given that chronic stress exposure has been linked to the onset of health conditions, these ecological factors may expose them to increased risk for poor health. However, Mexicans have many positive health outcomes compared to those monitored nationally, making it crucial to understand possible sources of resilience in this population. Here, we investigate Mexicans’ lay health knowledge in response to stress as a possible source of health-related resilience. Health knowledge is considered a central facet of practical and traditional knowledge as well as adaptive modes of intelligence and has a tangible impact on health. Using an ethnographically grounded community-based participatory research design informed by the theory of embodiment, our hybrid team of bilingual university and community-based researchers interviewed Mexican-origin residents ( N = 30) living in rural southwestern Arizona about how they experienced and responded to stress and incorporated it into their etiological frameworks. Thematic analysis revealed that participants paid close attention to how stress presented itself in their bodies, which informed their understanding of its potentially harmful health impacts and motivated them to employ multiple stress reduction strategies. Our results highlight the breadth of Mexicans’ lay health knowledge, thereby challenging dominant narratives about low rates of health literacy in this population. Findings can be harnessed to optimize potential health protective effects in home and community settings as well as to inform preventive and clinical interventions.