bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aplicación De La Semilla De Aguacate En El Desarrollo De Cubertería Biodegradable Y Descartable
Authors: Proaño Maigualca Marcos Javier , Jiménez Sánchez Yesenia Yomar , Jiménez Sánchez Dolores Augusta
Published: December 2024

Los residuos plásticos de un solo uso y parte de los residuos agrícolas aportan a la contaminación ecológica global que hoy se vive en el planeta. El objetivo de este trabajo es aplicar la semilla de aguacate en el desarrollo de cubertería biodegradable y descartable. La ruta metodológica inicia con un muestreo no probabilístico intencional de las semillas de aguacate, seguida por la preparación y molienda, y la inclusión del almidón de maíz termoplástico y bentonita en diferentes proporciones. Se plantea un diseño de mezclascon vértices extremos y punto central, para un total de cinco formulaciones con tres repeticiones. El material obtenido fue caracterizado en sus propiedades físicas, químicas y mecánicas. En la parte proyectual, se aplica la metodología denominada Proyecto de Promoción y Estudio para un Diseño Industrial Competitivo; esta será de utilidad desde el boceto hasta el desarrollo final. La muestra con más tracción corresponde a la formulación 5% con bentonita de 2,05 Mpa, además con un módulo de Young de 52,07 Mpa, lo que significa que es un material con mayor rigidez. Finalmente, se indica que el tipo de artículo presentado a continuación es de investigación.
Palabras clave: biodegradable, biomateriales, diseño sustentable, diseño de productos, cubertería descartable.
AbstractSingle-use plastic waste and a portion of agricultural waste contribute to the global ecological contamination the planet is experiencing today. This work aims to apply avocado seeds in the development of biodegradable and disposable cutlery. The methodological route begins with an intentional non-probabilistic sampling of avocado seeds, followed by preparation and grinding, and including thermoplastic corn starch and bentonite in different proportions. A mixture design with extreme vertices and a central point is proposed for a total of 5 formulations with 3 repetitions. The obtained material was characterized by its physical, chemical, and mechanical properties. The methodology called Project for the Promotion and Study for a Competitive Industrial Design is applied in the project part, which will be useful from the sketch to the final development. The sample with the highest traction corresponds to the formulation 5% with bentonite of 2.05 MPa, in addition to Young's modulus of 52.07 MPa, which means that it is a material with greater rigidity. Finally, it is indicated that the type of article presented below is research.
Keywords: biodegradable, biomaterials, sustainable design, product design, disposable cutlery
Diagnóstico De La Aceptación De La Vivienda Vertical En La Zona Conurbada Colima-Villa De Álvarez
Authors: Covarrubias Ruesga María Silvia del Rocío , Barajas Ávalos Ignacio , Chung Alonso Peter
Published: December 2024

Este es un artículo de investigación acerca de la problemática presente en la zona conurbada de Colima–Villa de Álvarez hasta la fecha. Esta es una ciudad horizontal, lo que provoca que la mancha urbana se esté extendiendo de forma acelerada y consuma áreas agrícolas y boscosas. Este hecho resulta preocupante, ya que las repercusiones en el medio ambiente natural y socioeconómico son muy negativas. Actualmente, se ha presentado un boom en la producción habitacional vertical; por ello, queda como pregunta si esa vivienda está acorde con las necesidades actuales y preferencias de la población de la ciudad. Se realizó una investigación para indagar en las características de la vivienda y su congruencia con las necesidades de los ocupantes actuales de estas, con la intención de generar parámetros que inciden en su producción acorde a preferencias y necesidades. Se busca poder participar en la búsqueda de compacidad y sostenibilidad de la ciudad, así como en la calidad de vida de los usuarios.
Palabras clave: vivienda vertical, compacidad, sostenibilidad, preferencias de la población.
AbstractThis research article addresses the current issues in the Colima–Villa de Álvarez metropolitan area. It is a predominantly horizontal city, leading to the rapid expansion of the urban footprint and the consumption of agricultural and forested areas. This fact is concerning due to the highly negative repercussions on the natural environment and socioeconomic conditions. Currently, there has been a boom in vertical housing production, raising the question of whether this type of housing aligns with the current needs and preferences of the city's population. The research was conducted to explore the characteristics of vertical housing and its alignment with the needs of its current occupants, aiming to establish parameters for its production that consider these preferences and requirements. The goal is to contribute to the pursuit of urban compactness and sustainability, as well as to improve the quality of life for residents.
Keywords: vertical housing, compactness, sustainability, population preferences.
Kuurojen ensimmäisiä lapsuusmuistoja asuntolakouluista sotien jälkeisessä Suomessa
Authors: Ahonen Outi
Published: December 2024

Artikkeli avaa kuurojen varhaisimpia lapsuudenmuistoja asuntolakouluista 1950–1960-luvuilta sekä yhteisöllisestä että yksilöllisestä näkökulmasta. Kuurojen viitottuja muistoja on kerätty vuosina 2022–2023 ympäri Suomea. Asuntolakouluihin paneutuva viittomakielinen muistitietotutkimus pohjautuu 70 eri-ikäisen kuuron haastatteluun suomalaisella ja suomenruotsalaisella viittomakielellä. Muistelmat analysoitiin kategorisella sisältöanalyysillä. Viitotun muistitiedon pohjalta voidaan todeta, että viittomakielellä on suuri merkitys kuurojen lapsuusmuistoissa ja asuntolakokemuksissa. Tutkimus osoittaa, että kuurojen kouluopetuksessa pidettiin tärkeänä puhutun kielen oppimista, jolloin viittomakielen opetus jäi vähemmälle huomiolle. Tässä artikkelissa tarkastellaan sekä syntymäkuurojen että kuuroutuneiden muistoja, joista edellisillä on vaikeammat lähtökohdat oppimiseen ja koulunkäyntiin viittomakieltä kieltävässä ympäristössä. Artikkeli kutsuu keskustelemaan, millaisia traumaattisia muistoja ja kokemuksia eri-ikäisillä kuuroilla on edelleen tänä päivänä.
The ‘Qur’an Crisis’ in the Swedish Press
Authors: Lövheim Mia
Published: December 2024

During the summer of 2023 news and debates about public burnings of the Qur’an dominated the Swedish and international media. In the aftermath of the flames and the debate this article aims to present and discuss the representation of the event as a ‘crisis’ in the Swedish daily press between 1 April and 1 October 2023. The article uses a quantitative analysis of the main topics in a selection of Swedish and Nordic daily newspapers, and a combination of co-occurrence and qualitative frame analysis of how the event came to be debated in a sample of Swedish opinion articles. Theories of mediatized conflicts as dynamic and complex processes revealing the state of democracy in a society are used to analyse the findings. The results are discussed in light of previous research on Qur’an burnings in Sweden and on debates about previous events involving clashes between freedom of speech and freedom of religion in the Nordic countries. The article concludes by arguing that the ‘Qur’an crisis’ as a mediatized conflict co-structures an ongoing negotiation between different positions on the most fundamental values of democracy, which has become increasingly contentious in Swedish public and political debate.
Douglas Ezzy, Anna Halafoff, Greg Barton and Rebecca Banham (eds): Religious Diversity in Australia: Living Well with Difference
Authors: Martikainen Tuomas
Published: December 2024

Book review of Douglas Ezzy, Anna Halafoff, Greg Barton and Rebecca Banham (eds): Religious Diversity in Australia: Living Well with Difference. London: Bloomsbury, 2024, 251 pp.
Christopher L. Schilling: The Japanese Talmud: Antisemitism in East Asia
Authors: Kolano Jasmine
Published: December 2024

Book review of Christopher L. Schilling: The Japanese Talmud: Antisemitism in East Asia. London: Hurst Publishers, 2023, 144 pp.
An Empirical Study: The Impact of Financial Crime on the Indian Economy
Authors: Sachin Shah
Published: December 2024

Financial crime and money laundering has been the focus area globally for several years. It not only facilitates various predicate crimes but also has far-reaching socio-economic consequences for any country and threatens the integrity of the financial system. The more transition is there from the study of a developed to a developing country, the more leakages will be witnessed in-terms of country’s financial performance and increase in overall financial crime rate of that country. This poses a threat to the global economy and its security and India is not insulated from this threat. This empirical study aims to determine the effect of financial crime on the Indian economy. The socio-economic parameters of India from 2011 to 2021. Pearson Correlation Coefficient calculator is used to ascertain the relationship between the financial crime activities and the key parameters of the Indian economy. The result of the study is based on the socio-economic parameters of India and the four-hypothesis testing on the relationship between the financial crime activities and the key parameters of the Indian economy. All the four hypotheses are rejected and concluded that financial crime in India do not have any adverse impact on the Indian economy.
Sífilis na gestação e os agravos frente à sífilis congênita: Uma revisão integrativa
Authors: Lima Isadora Gottardi Rosa de Castro , Ribeiro Anna Caroline Lima , Coluna João Marcelo Martins
Published: December 2024

O objetivo do presente trabalho é de analisar a assistência pré-natal e seus fatores associativos frente à Sífilis Gestacional e a Sífilis Congênita através de uma revisão integrativa da literatura. A partir da combinação dos descritores foram localizadas 117 produções. Com a aplicação dos critérios de inclusão e exclusão, a amostra final foi constituída de 08 artigos. Após análise dos mesmos e posterior discussão, concluímos que os fatores associados ao crescente aumento da Sífilis Gestacional são em sua maioria a deficiência do sistema de saúde brasileiro, inadequação do pré-natal, tratamento não realizado ou feito de forma incorreta, entre outros. Já os fatores associados a Sífilis Congênita são o manejo inadequado dos casos, perda da oportunidade de diagnóstico e tratamento, ausência de aconselhamento familiar, falta de tratamento do parceiro gerando uma reinfecção, falha do acompanhamento pré-natal, idade materna menor que 20 anos, baixa escolaridade, baixa renda, tratamento inadequado. Assim, o pré-natal é a melhor ferramenta para o diagnóstico precoce da Sífilis na Gestação e posterior tratamento.
O papel do Plasma Convalescente na modulação da resposta inflamatória em pacientes com COVID-19
Authors: Silva Mark Aragão dos Santos , Vignoli Julia Menezes , Sola Juliana Silveira , Louro Maria Antonia , Lopes Maria Luiza Scandiuzzi , Monnerat Maria Eduarda Lutterbach Guimarães , Dantas Cristina Maria Monteiro
Published: December 2024

Introdução: A pandemia de COVID-19 impactou de forma devastadora a saúde pública global, ocasionando mais de 6,9 milhões de mortes. Muitas estratégias terapêuticas foram utilizadas a fim de buscar a cura e evitar as complicações dessa infecção. Dentre essas a terapia com plasma convalescente, que consiste na transfusão de plasma de indivíduos que se recuperaram da infecção, contendo anticorpos específicos contra o patógeno. Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia da terapêutica com plasma convalescente na melhora clínica de pacientes hospitalizados com COVID-19 e sua relação com os níveis plasmáticos de anticorpos anti-SARS-CoV-2. Metodologia: Foi realizada uma busca bibliográfica nas plataformas PubMed e Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde e, através dos critérios de inclusão e exclusão, foram selecionados 20 artigos para fundamentar esta revisão sistemática de literatura. Resultados: O presente estudo demonstrou que entre os 20 artigos contemplados, 11 evidenciaram resultados positivos em relação ao uso do plasma convalescente na modulação da resposta inflamatória de pacientes infectados pelo vírus SARS-CoV-2. Apesar dessa terapêutica não ter apresentado efeitos adversos, não afetou a incidência de sintomas a longo prazo, não reduziu a mortalidade e levou a um aumento dos níveis de anticorpos anti-SARS-CoV-2 não suficiente para alterar o curso da enfermidade em questão. Conclusão: Embora a administração de plasma convalescente seja isenta de efeitos adversos, sua eficácia ainda é incerta e seu uso como monoterapia não recomendado. Portanto, mais pesquisas são necessárias para estabelecer sua aplicabilidade e real efetividade.
Narrativas de puérperas encarceradas sobre a prática do aleitamento materno no sistema prisional: Estudo qualitativo
Authors: Barros Angelita Gonçalves de Lima , Lima Daniela Santos de , Marino Nicolie Picoli , Sousa Pamela Alves Cabral de , Santos Gustavo Gonçalves dos , Dionizio Leticia de Almeida
Published: December 2024

Objetivo: Descrever as narrativas de puérperas encarceradas sobre a prática da amamentação em um sistema prisional no estado de São Paulo, investigando as barreiras enfrentadas e os impactos na saúde materno-infantil. Método: Trata-se de um estudo qualitativo, descritivo, utilizando a análise narrativa para explorar as percepções das mulheres. A coleta de dados foi realizada em uma penitenciária, onde foram entrevistadas seis mulheres em período puerperal, selecionadas por critérios de inclusão, como preservação cognitiva e capacidade verbal. As entrevistas, baseadas em um questionário validado, foram transcritas e analisadas com o software ATLAS.ti. Resultados: As participantes relataram desafios significativos relacionados à amamentação, incluindo condições precárias no ambiente prisional, falta de privacidade, separação precoce dos filhos e apoio insuficiente de profissionais de saúde. Embora todas tenham recebido o cartão da gestante, observou-se lacunas no acompanhamento pré-natal e falta de orientação sobre amamentação. A maioria das puérperas demonstrou sentimentos de satisfação em amamentar, apesar das adversidades. A separação obrigatória entre mãe e filho após seis meses foi destacada como um fator de sofrimento emocional. Conclusão: O estudo evidenciou a necessidade de intervenções no sistema prisional para assegurar o direito à saúde reprodutiva e ao vínculo materno. Recomenda-se a implementação de políticas públicas que promovam suporte contínuo à amamentação, formação profissional adequada e ambientes mais humanizados para mães encarceradas e seus filhos. Esses avanços são fundamentais para minimizar os impactos negativos e promover a saúde materno-infantil em contextos de privação de liberdade.
Características, comparações e desfechos de hospitalização e mortalidade por COVID-19 na população obstétrica e não obstétrica: Estudo de coorte
Authors: Santos Gustavo Gonçalves dos , León Larios Fátima , Martín-Vázquez Cristian , Coelho Lara Beatriz de Sousa , Nascimento Marcelo Victor Freitas , Nascimento Edson Silva do , Silva Anderson Lima Cordeiro da , Dionizio Leticia de Almeida , Andrade Luis Henrique de , Bermejo Gil Beatriz María , López Pedraza Leticia , Vidotti Giovana Aparecida Gonçalves
Published: December 2024

Objetivo: Explorar o impacto da COVID-19 na morbidade e mortalidade entre mulheres grávidas, puérperas e não grávidas hospitalizadas no Brasil. Método: Trata-se de um estudo de coorte retrospectivo utilizando dados do Sistema de Informações sobre Vigilância Epidemiológica (SIVEP-Gripe) do Brasil, abrangendo semanas epidemiológicas de 29 de dezembro de 2019 a 02 de janeiro de 2021.Os dados foram coletados através do SIVEP-Gripe do Brasil; esses dados incluem aspectos sociodemográficos, comorbidades e outros desfechos derivados da hospitalização. Resultados: 40.640 mulheres hospitalizadas com idade entre 10 e 49 anos, categorizadas nos grupos de gestantes (n=3.372), puérperas (n=794) e não gestantes (n=36.474). As 19,3% das mulheres não grávidas e não pós-parto não apresentavam comorbidades associadas, em comparação com 57,7% das gestantes e 73,3% das mulheres pós-parto. Verificou-se um risco acrescido de saturação de oxigénio inferior a 95% nas mulheres no pós-parto em comparação com as mulheres grávidas. Conclusão: Da mesma forma, foi observado um maior risco de mortalidade nas mulheres no pós-parto em comparação com as mulheres grávidas. Não foram evidenciadas diferenças no risco de morbidade e mortalidade associadas à COVID-19 entre mulheres não grávidas e grávidas.
Disjunção do anel mitral cursando com arritmia cardíaca: Um relato de caso
Authors: Strada Cleice Milene , Silva Bruna de Souza Gameiro Jorge da
Published: December 2024

A disjunção do anel mitral é uma modificação estrutural decorrente da inserção anormal da linha de flexão do anel mitral na parede mitral. Pacientes com essa alteração possuem mais chance de desenvolver síndromes arritmogênicas, síncopes e, inclusive, morte súbita. Tal condição ainda é pouco conhecida, porém vem ganhando destaque a medida que métodos diagnósticos de imagem se tornam mais acessíveis. O presente estudo, realizado através de revisão de prontuário no Hospital Universitário Maria Aparecida Pedrossian, tem como objetivo descrever e discutir o caso de uma paciente jovem, previamente hígida, apresentando palpitações esporádicas em consulta ambulatorial, cujo eletrocardiograma demonstrava extrassístole ventricular isolada, ecocardiograma sem critério de prolapso de valva mitral e, após progressão da investigação, com auxílio da ressonância cardíaca, realizado diagnóstico da disjunção do anel mitral. A partir disso, embora abordagem terapêutica ainda incerta na literatura médica, foi iniciado tratamento sintomático com betabloqueador, evoluindo com melhora dos sintomas. Assim, conclui-se a importância de divulgar a disjunção do anel mitral como diagnóstico diferencial dentre os pacientes com arritmias ventriculares para que se prossiga na investigação, pois tal condição é potencialmente fatal e necessita ter seguimento médico regularmente como forma de prevenção de morte súbita nos portadores.
O enfrentamento ao bullying escolar: Uma revisão sistemática
Authors: Silva Ellen de Moraes e , Solorzano Evelyn Noelia Seixas , Batista Fabiola da Costa , Barbosa Maria Zélia , Nogueira Elsilene Lavareda , Azevedo Juliana Lima de , Paulino Tainá Almeida
Published: December 2024

O bullying escolar é um fenômeno complexo, caracterizado por atos intencionais, repetitivos e marcados por um desequilíbrio de poder, que afetam negativamente o ambiente escolar e a saúde emocional das vítimas. Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar as características do bullying escolar, os processos para sua identificação, prevenção e intervenção, bem como as políticas públicas brasileiras voltadas ao enfrentamento dessa problemática. Para tanto, foi realizada uma revisão sistemática da literatura, abrangendo análises de legislações, práticas escolares e modelos de intervenção. Os resultados destacam que o Brasil possui avanços significativos na legislação, como a Lei 14.811/24, que criminaliza o bullying e o cyberbullying, mas ainda enfrenta desafios na implementação prática dessas normas. Modelos de intervenção como as Equipes de Ajuda e o Sistema de Apoio entre Pares (SAI) se mostram eficazes na identificação precoce e no apoio às vítimas, promovendo um ambiente escolar mais inclusivo e seguro. Contudo, persistem lacunas nas políticas públicas, especialmente no que diz respeito à adaptação das medidas às realidades regionais e ao treinamento contínuo da comunidade escolar. Conclui-se que o enfrentamento do bullying requer uma abordagem integrada, que combine legislação, políticas públicas específicas e práticas escolares baseadas em evidências. Esse esforço conjunto é essencial para transformar a escola em um espaço de convivência pacífica, respeito mútuo e pleno desenvolvimento dos estudantes.
Influência da adubação nitrogenada no déficit hídrico de girassol
Authors: Amaral Alisson Macendo , Santos Maria Ângela Cruz Macêdo dos , Teixeira Marconi Batista , Soares Frederico Antonio Loureiro , Brito Ana Flávia Cordeiro de
Published: December 2024

Os efeitos deletérios da redução na disponibilidade hídrica das culturas podem ser minimizados com a elevação da adubação nitrogenada. Esse estudo propõe averiguar os efeitos de condições variáveis de água no solo sobre o girassol cultivar Charrua e se a elevação da adubação nitrogenada pode mitigar esses efeitos. O delineamento utilizado foi o de blocos causalizados, analisados em esquema fatorial 4x2x3 com 3 repetições, sendo o fator A (RH - Reposições hídricas de 25, 50, 75 e 100% da capacidade de água disponível), fator B (DN - 100 e 200% da adubação nitrogenada recomendada) e fator C (EP - Época de avaliação - 20, 30, 50 e 70 dias após semeadura) para análise de crescimento e 90 dias para matéria seca e produção. O crescimento foi avaliado pela altura de planta (AP), diâmetro de caule (DC), número de folhas (NF) e área foliar (AF). Na produção, quantificou-se a massa seca de capítulo (MSCAP), massa seca de folha (MSF), massa seca de caule (MSC), massa de 100 grãos (M100G), massa de grãos total (MGTotal), o número de grãos total (NGTotal) e o número de grãos viáveis (NGV). As produções de massas secas; massa e número total de aquênios, bem como o número de aquênios viáveis responderam linearmente apenas com RH. São necessários mais estudos visando elucidar os decréscimos ocorridos no DC e na AF ocorridos pela elevação da DN.
The Urgency of Cybercrime Law Reform in Indonesia: Resolving Artificial Intelligence Criminal Liability
Authors: Kurnia Dewi Anggraeny  , Mufti Khakim  , Muhammad Rizal Sirojudin
Published: December 2024

The existence of AI is a separate system based on logic, where the information entered into the system will be processed with a programmed algorithm to determine a predetermined result. AI can cause various forms of harm to everyone, including its creator, and the harm it causes can have a long-lasting impact, considering that AI can make decisions similar to humans. The application of AI in the industrial sector will impact all existing systems, including the criminal justice system in all countries. Therefore, the legal regulation of cybercrime in Indonesia needs to be reformed to resolve criminal liability for criminal acts that AI can carry out. The formulation of the problem in this study is what is the urgency of updating cybercrime law in Indonesia. Furthermore, how is the legal policy on criminal liability for artificial intelligence resolved it. Thus,  this study normative such as legal research carried out by examining library materials or data using statutory and analytical approaches. This study concludes and suggests that responsibility must be imposed on AI users and legal entities whose responsible parties are company directors. AI creators must also be responsible for the AI's actions. The renewal of cyber law in Indonesia is significant and should be done immediately, even in the Electronic Information and Transactions Law. Almost all institutional and personal documents are stored electronically; the state must also protect them. Other parties can then misuse these documents, which can be traded on the cyber black market and used irresponsibly. Illegal activities in cyberspace are also increasing, and the diversity of their actions with various skills is constantly increasing.
An account of the natural history and exploitation of the great auk (Pinguinus impennis) in ‘Histoire des pesches’, an illustrated eighteenth-century manuscript
Authors: Iglésias Samuel P. , Fournier-Sowinski Jérôme
Published: December 2024

The hunting of the great auk ( Pinguinus impennis), which led to its extinction in the mid-nineteenth century, is well documented. However, the discovery of archives providing new details on this species is a rare event. A manuscript dealing with seabirds and their ‘fishing’, written in 1720–1722 by François Le Masson du Parc (1671–1741), an attaché for the Normandy maritime administration, was acquired in 2019 from an auction house. This unpublished and unstudied manuscript comprises the sixth and final volume of the ‘Histoire des pesches’. As part of a national policy to regulate French maritime fisheries, Le Masson du Parc completed the description of marine resources and fisheries in his ‘Histoire des pesches’ which was abundantly illustrated by Pierre Le Chevalier (1688–after 1763). However, this monumental work was never published and the manuscripts were dispersed after the author's death. The section recently purchased provides valuable information on the spatiotemporal evolution of many populations of North Atlantic seabirds, including the great auk, in a context of anthropogenic pressures. This species is named using several hitherto unknown Latin and vernacular names of great importance for the exploration or reinterpretation of archives. It is mentioned as common and one of the most popular birds consumed by cod fishermen on the banks of Newfoundland and that it was caught using baited hooks from boats. The text is accompanied by two illustrations, including a life drawing of three great auks, which are among the oldest known illustrations of the species. These 300-year-old archives constitute a valuable testimony for the historical ecology of this iconic, extinct bird.
Dates of purchase of Mark Catesby’s Natural history of Carolina, Florida and the Bahama islands, parts 1–9 (1729–1739), by Spencer Compton, Lord Wilmington (c.1674–1743)
Authors: Jeffery Sally , McBurney Henrietta
Published: December 2024

The early eighteenth-century politician Lord Wilmington ( c.1674–1743) is little-known for his keen gardening interests. But the fruit trees, exotics and succulents he reared in his garden at Chiswick were much admired in his time. Recent discoveries in his archive at Chatsworth House reveal that as well as collecting rare plants he formed a substantial horticultural library and kept up with the latest natural history and botanical publications. The records of his subscriptions to Mark Catesby’s Natural history of Carolina, Florida and the Bahama islands – he died before the last two parts were published – are significant as the only known dates of purchase by any of Catesby’s subscribers.
William Richard Fisher (1824–1888) and the controversy about Paget’s pochard (Aythya ferina × nyroca)
Authors: Slater Clive A.
Published: December 2024

The study of natural avian hybridization has a chequered history; ignored or marginalized by many, but at times studied in considerable detail by a few. The discovery of an unknown duck in the English county of Norfolk in the 1840s provoked much discussion among British ornithologists regarding its status as a species or hybrid and led to conflicting views on appropriate nomenclature. William Richard Fisher of Great Yarmouth, a naturalist and artist, was much involved in these initial deliberations and, together with Abraham Dee Bartlett, was responsible in 1847 for declaring this duck a distinct species named Ferina ferinoides (now Aythya ferina ×  nyroca) with the vernacular name of Paget’s pochard. The discovery of similar specimens elsewhere in Europe in the 1850s also stimulated considerable interest from ornithologists such as Friedrich Wilhelm Justus Bädeker and Jean Baptiste Marie Jaubert, both of whom provided scientific names, being unaware of events in Britain. The Italian ornithologist, Ettore Arrigoni degli Oddi, was perhaps the most vigorous pursuer of Paget’s pochard, travelling extensively in Britain and on the continent to examine specimens. This paper traces the circumstances in which the curiosity of notable ornithologists in Britain and mainland Europe was aroused by Paget’s pochard, thereby reflecting the waxing and waning of interest in, and prevailing views on, natural hybridization among birds since the second half of the nineteenth century.
An economic analysis of Pangas (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) farming considering socioeconomic and environmental impacts: A case study in Trishal Upazila, Bangladesh
Authors: Haider Samiul , Haque Sadika , Islam Santa , Sayadat Nazmus , Salman Md.
Published: December 2024

Pangas is a relatively fast-growing fish species with great production and export growth potential in Bangladesh, but its socioeconomic and environmental effects remained less explored. Therefore, the study was conducted, to explore the profitability and factors influencing the gross return of Pangas fish farming and to analyse the socioeconomic and environmental effects. Data were collected using a simple random sampling technique from 60 Pangas fish producers living in two villages of Trishal Upazila under the Mymensingh district of Bangladesh, through face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured interview schedule. The Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR) analysis was calculated to measure the profitability; while the Cobb-Douglas type production function was used to analyze the factors affecting commercial Pangas fish production. The cost-benefit analysis showed that Pangas fish production was profitable, with an average per hectare net return of BDT 1,439,174 (13,237.25 USD). The benefit-cost ratio (BCR) was found 1.27, indicating profitability. The regression analysis of the Cobb-Douglas type production function found that human labour, feed, fingerlings, and medicine/pesticide costs positively and significantly affected Pangas fish production. The study highlighted the positive socioeconomic impacts of Pangas fish production but also raised concerns about the environmental implications. Producers faced challenges related to technical, economic, and social aspects. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, extension workers, and Pangas fish producers in formulating strategies and policies to promote sustainable growth and address the challenges faced by Pangas fish producers.
Farmers knowledge regarding safe handling and application of pesticides in rice crop
Authors: Shoaib Muhammad , Mahmood Ch. Khalid , Ashraf Ijaz , Akbar Nadeem
Published: December 2024

Rice is one of the leading food crops in Pakistan and we conducted this study to explore farmers knowledge regarding the safe handling and application of pesticides on rice crop in rice growing district Shiekhupura of Punjab province. A total of 381 randomly selected rice growers were interviewed using a structured, validated and reliable interview schedule administered face-to-face. Collected data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Results revealed that 58.5% of respondents were aged between 36 and 50 years, 25.2% o had completed middle-level education,40.4% had more than 25 acres of land, 60.9% were owners of their land and 50.6% had farming experience of 6-10 years. Around 45% reported not considering wind direction while spraying and 66% used mud/soil to clean their hands post-pesticide application. Around 73,2, 66.1 and 73.2% reported the use of goggles, 66.7% trouser suit, 66.1% face masks, 65.4% used boots and 6.6% used overalls for their safety.  This study indicates an average level of knowledge and use of Personnel protective equipment (PPEs) against pesticides. However, there is still room to create awareness among those who are not utilizing the PPEs. Along with the dissemination of advisory services through group meetings, and the dissemination of information related to the safe use of pesticides the potential of social media platform and mainstream media can be used.
Sustainable agriculture and livelihood outcomes: evidence from farmers organizations in Tubah sub-division, Cameroon
Authors: Kbebsii Nyamka M. , Angwafo Tsi E. , Egwu Bime M. J.
Published: December 2024

Agriculture is the main economic sector in most developing countries and accounts for more than 50% of the population. Low agricultural productivity, which is due to unsustainable agricultural practices, is a major negative contributor to farmers' livelihoods. The continuous use of fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides has led to low agricultural productivity, low soil fertility, unfavorable economic returns, and food poisoning due to unsustainable agricultural practices. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the effects of sustainable agriculture on livelihoods outcomes of farmers organizations in Cameroon. The data was elicited via survey questionnaire administered on the sample of 114 registered and 88 unregistered farmer organizations comprised of common initiative groups and cooperatives giving a total sample of 202. Using cluster sampling approach, proximity villages were grouped into four clusters of villages and stratified sampling was then used to selected members of the organizations to participated in the study. We used instrumental variable least square two stage and control function regression estimation techniques. Results revealed that sustainable agriculture have a negative significant contribution to the livelihood of farmer organisations to the tune of 21.1%. The negative contribution is explained in the usage of overdose chemical fertilizers, insecticides and pesticides as instruments of agricultural sustainability. This study recommended that policies directed towards agricultural sustainability should be soil nutrients and water friendly such as the use of organic fertilizer, bio pesticides, to reduce the negative effect of unsustainable agricultural practices on livelihood of farmers in Cameroon. It is therefore necessary to promote and adopt organic fertilizers on farms by farmer, bio pesticides and encourage farming methods such as crop rotation that maintain the soil fertility.
Impact of cultural practices on trichoderma strains in papaya rhizosphere, diamare division, Cameroon
Authors: Djenatou Pélagie , Sali Bourou , Philippe Kosma
Published: December 2024

Organic farming is a method of agricultural production that aims to respect natural systems and cycles, maintain and improve the condition of soil, water, and air, and the health of plants and animals. It is an answer to the environmental sufferings caused by chemical pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. Microscopic soil fungi in the genus Trichoderma are important in agricultural contexts as they induce soil fertility and plant resistance to pathogens. The present work assesses the presence of Trichoderma spp. in soil samples from the papaya rhizosphere in the Sudano-Sahelian area of Cameroon. Cultural practices were recorded in papaya orchards through semi-structured interviews addressed to papaya growers identified in this region. Ten papaya trees were randomly selected for soil samples in four treated plots. Three samples of soil were collected around each labelled papaya tree at 25, 50, and 75 cm from the trunk for a depth of up to 40 cm, and a composite sample consisting of the mixture of the resulting 30 soil samples performed per plot was obtained and kept for further analysis. Moreover, an additional composite soil sample from experimental papaya in the organic experimental farming site of Meskine was committed as a control plot. Microbiological studies were performed using a specific TSM at different concentration levels from 10-4 to 10-5, 10-6, 10-7, and 10-10 in Petri dishes with 6 repetitions each. The mean colonisation rate of Trichoderma spp. was compared between plots. Results showed that the common use of agrochemicals by papaya producers and the fire-prone when implementing papaya fields negatively impacted the development of useful Trichoderma strains in their farms. No Trichoderma strain was found in soil samples for each papaya farm from treated plots (0%). While, all samples analysed from the control plot were 100% productive of the soil-born microorganism sought. Farmers in the Diamare division are encouraged to use eco-friendly cultural methods for preserving Trichoderma spp. in the rhizosphere of papaya trees.
Enhancing sustainability of university-based outreach activities through participatory action research: the case of Sokoine University of Agriculture
Authors: Busindeli Innocent M. , Martin Respikius , Kalungwizi Vituce J.
Published: December 2024

Universities worldwide are mandated for training, research, consultancy and outreach. To ensure that they are responsive to community’s needs, as part of corporate social responsibility, Universities carry out outreach activities and engage with rural communities. However, many universities' outreach activities in rural communities face the challenge of sustainability. In addressing sustainability, Participatory Action Research (PAR) has proved to foster collaboration and meaningful engagements for community transformation. This is because using PAR to seek solutions to problems facing society and, simultaneously, meeting outreach goals fosters sustainability. In this paper, we use the Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) as a case to report findings on achievements, challenges and critical lessons learned from selected outreach projects that used PAR interventional strategy. We collected primary data from community members based on our involvement in selected projects. We employed focus group discussions (FGDs) to collect primary data. These data were compiled and shared during feedback meetings and dialogue conferences. In addition, secondary data collected include information obtained from literature review, project reports and researchers’ field notes. Data were analyzed by thematic analysis procedure. Our experiences and results indicate that PAR interventional strategy sustained the University’s outreach activities, enhanced the University-community linkage and transformed rural communities in different ways, ranging from individual, economic and organisational empowerment. In addition, PAR fostered researcher-farmer interactions and collaboration among partners and actors. Critical lessons learned include long-term commitment to work with rural communities is necessary to build mutual trust and strong partnerships; communities perceive researchers as “outsiders” who have abilities and resources for addressing their felt needs and problems and PAR is limited by institutional set-up. However, frequent interactions and close involvement of stakeholders in project implementation guaranteed success.
Evaluating the impact of organic mulch on climate-resilient cotton production: a regenerative agriculture approach for sustainable farming
Authors: Hussain Iqbal , Saleem Shahid , Ullah Hafeez , Nasir Muahmmad , Iqbal Muhammad U. , Nisar Madiha , Fatima Sidra , Khaliq Abdul , Masood Syed A. , Rauf Hafiz A. , Hussain Fida
Published: December 2024

Organic mulches offer environmentally friendly benefits for cotton in challenging environments. A study was conducted in the farmer field and research station of the Rural Education and Economic Development Society (REEDS) Pakistan in 2023 to evaluate the effect of various organic mulches on soil properties, cotton yield, and quality in a semi-arid region. Results showed that wheat straw, rice, and sugarcane leaves straw maintained moderate soil temperatures (27.3°C to 27.4°C), unlike the control (41.6°C). Soil pH remained stable (7.9 to 8.1), and organic mulches raised soil carbon (0.68% to 0.72% vs. 0.51% control). Nutrient availability increased, with higher nitrogen (0.045% to 0.049%), phosphorus (6.2 mg kg−1 to 6.5 mg kg−1), and potassium (89 mg kg−1 to 92 mg kg−1) compared to control (0.028%, 5.6 mg kg−1, and 71 mg kg−1). Organic matter content rose (0.77% to 0.81%) versus the control (0.51%). Weed density decreased (4 to 5 weeds m² vs. 23 weeds m² control) with mulches. Cotton height, bolls per plant, and open-boll weight increased with mulches, elevating cotton yield (2704 kg ha−1 to 2743 kg ha−1) over control (2117 kg ha−1), with consistent ginning outturn (36.62% to 37.2%). Cotton quality remained similar, while mulches reduced irrigation frequency (7 irrigations) and total amount (533 mm); control needed more (9 irrigations, 685 mm). Crop water use efficiency improved with mulches (0.50 to 0.51 kg m−3 vs. 0.30 kg m−3 control). This study highlights organic mulch's potential to enhance soil properties, nutrient availability, weed suppression, cotton yield, and water use efficiency.
Relevance and determinants of farm mechanization in the diverse geographic context of Nepal
Authors: Panta Bibek , Pandey Ram P. , Ghimire Binod , Neupane Nisha
Published: December 2024

This study assessed the overall scenario of mechanization in different ecological zones of Nepal and identified determinants of mechanization. A perception-based semi-structured questionnaire survey was conducted in four districts, each in Terai and Hills of Lumbini province, Nepal. Index ranking method and descriptive statistics were used to rank farmers' perceptions of factors affecting adoption, problems, and the impact of mechanization. A multiple linear regression model (OLS) was used to analyze determinants of farm mechanization, and the model was tested for normality, multicollinearity, and heteroscedasticity. The average machinery used per household in the study area was 1.68, and 58% of the machinery purchased was in grant support from the government. Extension service is a major source of information for adoption, and cost reduction is a major reason for using machines in farming. Most surveyed farmers responded that cost has decreased and production has increased with the use of machinery. Pollution, repair and maintenance, fuel supply, and lack of training are the few problems associated with mechanization. The study showed that the provision of subsidy, ecological zone (Terai region), total land, economically active members in the household, and distance from extension service were positively significant. In contrast, family size and membership in groups and cooperatives were negatively significant with the adoption of farm machinery. Effective extension service, Grant support program, establishment of custom hiring center, distribution of woman-friendly machines, and establishment of service centers in remote areas along with distributing machines recommended by the research center are important recommendations for enhancing the adoption of mechanization.
Assessing awareness among cotton growers about the IPM in Punjab, Pakistan: exploring the role of Pest Warning and Quality Control of Pesticides (PW&QCP) Department
Authors: Ali Ahsan , Ali Shoukat , Ashraf Ijaz , Siddiqui Muhammad T.
Published: December 2024

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is deemed a practical approach to controlling insect pest infestation in cotton crop. This study explored the cotton grower’s awareness of the IPM activities with particular reference to the role of field staff from the Pest Warning and Quality Control of Pesticides (PW&QCP) department, Punjab. A total of 192 purposively chosen cotton growers from two districts, Multan and Dera Ghazi Khan, were interviewed face-to-face using a structured interview schedule. Using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), frequency, percentages, mean, standard deviation, and range were calculated along with correlation and regression to explore the relationship between variables. Results revealed that the mean age of respondents was 43.86 years, education was 4.34 years, land was 9.90 acres, and farming experience was 27.23 years. Around 66% were landowners, and for 73.4%, crop farming was the key income source. Majority (87.5%) had awareness about pest scouting, 69.3% about intercropping, whereas 35.9% were aware of biological control agents, referring to poor awareness of biological control. The grand mean of farmers' attitudes and perceived usefulness of provided services were 3.47 and 3.43, respectively, implying that both were rated moderately. An attitude was statistically significantly correlated with the awareness of IPM activities (P<0.05) and the usefulness of services (P<0.05). Binary regression showed that attitude and perceived usefulness had a statistically significant (P<0.05) impact on the farmers' awareness. The study concludes that the attitude of farmers was key in the context of the usefulness of IPM activities. The field staff of PW&QCP can organize trainings and workshops for the farmers to shape their positive attitude towards biological control.
Agricultural Workforce Development: Applying Theory of Planned Behavior to train Agro-Entrepreneurs
Authors: Park Mihee , Park John J. , Idun Andrews
Published: December 2024

This qualitative study aimed to examine the impact of a mushroom cultivation training initiative in a small community in central Ghana on participants’ inclination to be agro-entrepreneurs after the training. This training was designed to mitigate multiple issues in the Ghanaian community, including air pollution from burning sawdust at a local sawmill, children’s malnutrition, and a high unemployment rate. Local community members participated in the training sessions to gain expertise and proficiency in establishing mushroom farms, thus fostering a natural formation of a community of practice for the exchange of knowledge and skills. A total of 150 individuals from the local community underwent the mushroom cultivation training. We observed participants in training, and 15 selected participants subsequently participated in semi-structured interviews. The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) was adopted as a conceptual framework to discover participants’ initial motivations to participate in the training, their experience during the training, and their intention to start mushroom farming following the training. Through the process of constant comparative analysis, this study explored the relationship between participants' behavioral intent to become agro-entrepreneurs and various influencing factors, such as their initial motivation, knowledge and skills development, sense of control, external supports, anticipated future challenges, and community of practice. The findings reveal that membership in a community of practice was the strongest influence on their entrepreneurial intent. Within the community of practice, they collectively identified challenges which led to increased doubts about their abilities and a tendency to avoid the uncertainties of becoming agro-entrepreneurs. As a contribution to the implementation of the TPB, this study shed light on the importance of a community of practice as a place to develop subjective norms. It is a collaborative learning space as well as a place where participants cogenerate shared emotions and collective opinions and make collective decisions.