bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding factors influencing technical inertia in family-run SMEs : A study on technology adoption challenges
Authors: Pujari Purvi , Arora Monika , Kumar Anuj , Pandey Anoop
Published: January 2024

The study aims to develop theoretical understanding regarding the factors impacting technical inertia in family-run businesses by studying the literature available. The factors impacting are similar in some ways to technology adoption in other businesses but family businesses bring along their own set of challenges to the mix. The study relies on a qualitative research design to identify the factors impacting the technology adoption. Drawing on the secondary data with an in-depth literature review, this study explores how family-run businesses approaches technology adoption. The analysis shows that family-run businesses may face multiple obstacles in the process of acquisition and adoption of technology. The factors like fear of change, lack of skills and conservative leadership being the prime ones. The paper contributes to a better understanding of how family businesses can leverage the adoption of new innovation. The technology adoption such as the use of Artificial Intelligence, ChatGPT and social media will help the business to grow and have the existence not only local but global as well. The use of technology will impact the business in decision making. This will further helps in grown and profitability in business with better utilisation of resources. This will also impact the evolution in the business. The paper suggests the future course of action which can be taken by these businesses. The paper offers insights into the very relevant field of technology adoption by the family businesses in India.
Smart Magnetic Door Lock For Elderly People Using AWS Alexa, IoT, Lambda and ESP Module
Authors: Chakraborty Sudip , Aithal P. S.
Published: January 2024

Purpose: Nowadays, we all are busy. From morning till night, we spent most of our time outside the house. In most of the scenarios, we struggle to fulfill our financial needs. We are bound to keep our senior citizens at home, and we are busy with work, which provides us assurance of financial health. Our senior citizen is engaged to manage the house. They are generally involved with lightweight tasks like opening the main door. But this work sometimes causes trouble for our older people if they have difficulty walking. Sometimes, they need to come from upstairs to down. For this problem, we have a solution. Without coming downstairs or in front of the main door, we must say, “Alexa, open the door” from a mobile phone. The door will open. After that, it will also lock automatically. There is no need to shut the door again.
Design/Methodology/Approach: We execute the project using AWS IoT, Lambda, and Alexa voice service. We create our IoT profile inside the AWS cloud. Create and upload Lambda functions to the AWS Lambda cloud services to trigger the equipment. Create Alexa skills inside the Alexa developer console to convert voice commands into text.
Findings/Result: After executing several experiments, we observed that our system ran well without any false triggering. We also observed that the system performance is good if the internet is speedy enough and the voice is clear and electronically understandable.
Originality/Value: Much research has been done on automatic door-opening systems for older adults. But most of the architecture is less feasible for daily hassle-free use. So, considering all aspects like consistency, security, robustness, and fast response, we decided to implement this architecture, which we can say is a unique approach and provides value to the user’s daily life.
Paper Type: Experimental-based research
Conceptualization, Characterization and Establishment of Model Large Cardamom Village in Eastern Himalaya of West Bengal
Authors: Sarkar Sujit , Padaria R N , Burman R R , Gurung Natasha , Barman D , Chatterjee Soham , Dutta Sanjay , Debnath Sayan
Published: January 2024

The farmers’ livelihood in the Himalayan region of West Bengal mainly depends on large cardamom cultivation. However, the farmers in the region were continuously facing low yield, high disease incidence, and poor quality of large cardamom. An alternative extension approach namely ‘Model Large Cardamom Village’ was conceptualized to address these issues in Tindhurey village of Kalimpong in West Bengal. Diverse scientific technologies and practices were promoted in the adopted village from 2018 to 2022. An outcome-based impact evaluation was done in 2023 with a sample of 350 farmers. The maximum yield increment was observed in the Seremna cultivar (45.94%) followed by Bharlangey (42.86%), Ramsai (40%), and Golsey cultivar (36.67%). Similarly, the maximum increase in income was reported in the Seremna cultivar from Rs. 160000/ha. to Rs. 290000/ha. Other significant impact of Model Large Cardamom Village was increased adoption of recommended technologies, the decline in pest and disease incidence, enhanced social networking, the decline in migration of youth from the village, increased access to different production inputs and services, and starting large cardamom-based tourism. The study shows the potential of a specific and focused extension approach to address the technological gap at the regional level.
Information Sources Utilization and Adoption Behaviour of Pineapple Growers in Nagaland
Authors: Pongener Sentibenla , Jha Kaushal Kumar
Published: January 2024

Pineapple being one of the important horticultural crops of Nagaland, adoption of sustainable cultivation practices is crucial with changing climatic conditions. The study was conducted in Nagaland during 2018-2022 to evaluate the factors influencing the use of information sources and technology adoption for sustainable pineapple cultivation. Altogether 275 respondents were selected from 13 villages representing three leading pineapple growing districts of Nagaland using proportionate random sampling. The study revealed that informal sources of information were most preferred by the respondents. Selection of improved varieties, planting materials, weed management, ratooning, storage, and post-harvest management practices were fully adopted by the respondents. Variables viz., size of land under pineapple cultivation, annual income, income from pineapple cultivation, training exposure, experience, social participation, attitude, economic motivation, and knowledge had significant relationships with the information sources utilization and technology adoption. The coefficient of determination (R2) was 0.582 and 0.581 for explaining the utilization of information sources and adoption respectively. It is recommended that strengthening extension-farmer linkages and improving digital literacy may help enhance the efficacy of the information sources as well as improve technology adoption by pineapple growers.
Livelihood Diversification in Rainfed Areas of Telangana State: Evidence from Household Level Survey
Authors: Nirmala G , Reddy A Amarender , Pankaj P K , Kumar R Nagarjuna , Shankar K Ravi , Beevi C N Anshida , Rohit Jagriti , Singh V K
Published: January 2024

Farmers in rainfed agriculture participate in both on-farm and off-farm activities to reduce risks from weather shocks, low farm fragmentation, low soil productivity, and frequent droughts and floods. Dependence on farm revenue alone proved difficult and risky. The study was conducted in 2022 to determine patterns and a livelihood diversification index at the household level for various farm sizes producing the chickpea crop. Primary data were acquired from 80 randomly selected farmer respondents in four mandals of Kamareddy district in Telangana State. Descriptive statistics were applied to characterize the sample households’ demographic, social, and economic factors. The livelihood diversification index was estimated using the Simpson diversity index at the household level. The data revealed that small and marginal farmers have very high diversification levels, while medium and large farmers have high diversification levels. The percentage share of on farm income stands highest for large farmers and lowest for marginal farmers and vice versa about non-farm activity. Regression analysis indicated education, farm size, total on-farm income, and net returns from pulse crops were significant determinants for diversification. The study further suggests that government support needs to focus on the provision of incentives for diversification at both on-farm and non-farm levels.
Cotton Cultivation Practices in South-Western Part of Punjab
Authors: Sharma Karamjit , Kumar Vivek , Singh Gurmail
Published: January 2024

The study was conducted for three consecutive years (2018/19-2020/21) to investigate the adoption status of cotton crop production practices in Sri Muktsar Sahib district in south-western Punjab. Data pooled for three years showed that the majority of farmers (67.8%) ensured crop sowing at the recommended time, while 32.8 per cent delayed cotton sowing due to the non-availability of canal water for timely pre-sowing irrigation. Concerning nutrition management, 18.5, 45.5 and 33.5 per cent of farmers applied recommended doses of N, P, and K fertilizers, respectively, and 89.5 per cent of farmers applied two or more sprays of potassium nitrate (KNO3). For the management of insect pests, during 2018-19, ~52.9 per cent of farmers had to apply 5-6 sprays, while during the next two years, ~55.4 and 81.5 per cent of farmers applied 3-4 insecticide sprays. The average seed cotton yield during 1st year of study (2018-19) was 15.6 q ha-1 which was increased to 22.6 q ha-1 during 2019-20 and 23.1 q ha-1 during 2020-21. This study reiterates that there is a need to update the farmers regarding knowledge of improved cotton cultivation techniques for efficient weed, nutrition, water, and insect-pest management in cotton cultivation in Punjab.
ARIMA and ARIMAX Analysis on the Effect of Variability of Rainfall, Temperature on Wheat Yield in Haryana
Authors: Goyal Megha , Agarwal Subodh , Ghalawat Suman , Malik Joginder Singh
Published: January 2024

The national and state governments require crop production forecasts to make a variety of policy decisions on import-export, storage, distribution, price, and other factors. This article presents a pre-harvest forecasting method specially developed for crops grown in the western region of Haryana (India). The western region includes Hisar, Sirsa, and Bhiwani districts. For crop forecasting in the Hisar, Sirsa, and Bhiwani regions ARIMA and ARIMAX models have been framed. For the development of the ARIMAX model, climate data during the growing season of the crop were used as input along with the crop yield. The percentage difference between the root mean square error and the wheat yield estimations determined by the real-time yield(s) indicates how well-competing models performed in terms of forecasting. The ARIMAX model performs well at all time points with a lower measurement error compared to the ARIMA model.
Unveiling Constraints in Banana Value Chains: A Holistic Analysis in Palakkad District, Kerala
Authors: Nikhil K S , Radhakrishnan Aparna , Sathyan Archana Raghavan , Thomas Allan , Dileepkumar R
Published: January 2024

Investigations into value chains, aiming to identify priority constraints experienced by value chain actors, play a vital role in comprehending socio-economic dynamics and formulating sustainable development strategies. The banana value chain in the Palakkad district of Kerala exhibits widespread distribution and significant fragmentation. Many stakeholders voiced their concerns, drawing attention to the challenges they faced in their daily operations. In this context a value chain-based study was conducted during October, 2022. Employing diverse research techniques such as interviews, focus group discussions, and the analytical hierarchy process (AHP), the study categorized constraints into economic, technical, social, and environmental groups. Results indicated that economic factors had the most substantial impact, followed by technical, social, and environmental constraints. The study highlights the profound influence of these constraints on the financial aspects of all involved stakeholders. It further emphasizes the necessity for targeted policy interventions and strategic planning to effectively address these issues and enhance the agricultural sector’s efficiency and economic viability in the area.
Development and Validation of a Farmer’s Focused Digital Literacy Scale
Authors: Chandra Saurabh , Ghadei Kalyan , Chennamadhava M , Ali Waris
Published: January 2024

The research aimed to develop a tool for assessing the digital literacy of farmers towards ICT-led agriculture in India. The study identified three dimensions namely digital knowledge, attitude, and digital competency, for a farmer-focused digital literacy scale. Digital competency consisted of seven sub-dimensions viz device setup, digital communication and collaboration, digital content creation and sharing, digital safety, problem-solving, digital marketing, and digital payment. The digital literacy scale was developed with Likert scale construction methodology. An overall mean relevancy score of 5.693 was obtained. A pilot study was conducted with 60 farmers in a non-sampled area. The t value was calculated, and the cutoff value for item selection was set at > 1.75. For assessing internal consistency reliability using the Spearman-Brown formula, a reliability coefficient of 0.850 was found. The calculation of Cronbach’s alpha gave a value of 0.743, indicating that the scale shows a high level of consistency in its measurement. The standard farmers-focused digital literacy scale comprised of 30 items, and its content validity was determined with expert opinions.
Attitude of the Staff Towards Farmer Producers Organization – Development and Standardization of the Scale
Authors: Vavilala Priyanka , Singh V K , Singh D K , Singh L B
Published: January 2024

Farmer Producers Organization is an organization where the members are farmers who come together to buy inputs collectively, sell their produce in bulk eliminating the middlemen and processing the produce to gain more returns. As staff are important assets of the organization, it is advisable to measure their attitude towards the organization. An attempt was made for the construction of scale to measure the attitude of staff towards the Farmer Producers Organization using summated rating scale. After analyzing the review of literature, 48 statements were enlisted initially and were sent to 100 judges. Based on the response of 34 judges, 25 statements were finalized for item analysis. After calculating t-values, 14 statements were finalized in which 10 were positive statements and 4 were negative statements. The reliability was checked using split half method and validity was examined with the help of content validity. The reliability coefficient was found to be 0.84 which indicates that the scale is reliable.
Security analysis of the data of social networks using AI techniques
Authors: Hussain Sadoon , Tahsin Abida , Sami Ahmed
Published: January 2024

This proposed research explores the potential of AI techniques, particularly user engagement prediction, for analyzing social network data and identifying potential security threats. Utilizing a Random Forest classifier, we developed a highly accurate model achieving 100% accuracy and a 1.0 AUC-ROC score. This exceptional performance demonstrates the ability of engagement prediction to accurately flag suspicious accounts with unusually low engagement, often associated with bots or fake profiles. Based on these findings, we implemented mitigation strategies such as flagging low-engagement accounts for further investigation and analyzing engagement trends to inform proactive security measures. Furthermore, our work opens doors for future research in combining engagement prediction with other AI techniques like sentiment analysis for even more sophisticated threat detection, ultimately contributing to the development of robust solutions for enhanced social network security and user privacy protection.
Illustrating the future
Authors: Conrad JoAnn
Published: January 2024

In the early 1900s, Sweden looked to its north, to “Lappland” as its “land of the future” – an optimistic, utopian vision that tied Sweden’s emergence as a nation-state both to the north’s untapped resources as well as to its open, pristine landscape as a place of symbolic regenerative potentiality – a Nature in which Swedes could re-create themselves. At the same time, the Swedish publishing industry was emerging as a social force, and with it the proliferation of mass-produced images. Photographs, illustrations, engravings, and facsimiles, circulating with scant reference to an original, were powerful political and commercial agents in creating competing mythologies of space and place – one a “found”, natural paradise, one an invented utopia, ripe for development. This article examines the discursive formation of Lapland as it was transformed into such a landscape of desire through the mass production and circulation of visual images – in particular photographs – that were continuously recontextualized, recirculated, remediated, and consumed.
Arctic images in context
Authors: Kaasa Janicke S.
Published: January 2024

The article explores how Richard Harrington’s travelogue The Face of the Arctic (1952) responds to and represents the changing Canadian Arctic at the beginning of the Cold War, with a focus on Harrington’s famous photographs of the Padlei famine that were essential in changing the public’s image of the region at the time. Whereas scholars so far have downplayed the complexity of these photographs, this study offers a rereading of the Padleimiut photographs that draws on W. J. T. Mitchell’s concept of imagetext. The analysis of these photographs in relation to the text they appear alongside, the article argues, facilitates a more dynamic understanding of the images and their meaning. As such, the present study exemplifies how Arctic images are dependent on their specific contexts and on contextualizing interpretations.
Estudo de caso e pesquisa-ação: semelhanças e distinções entre os métodos
Authors: Rodrigues da Rosa Patricia , Zatt Chardosin Fernando , Dias Alperstedt Graziela , Ghisi Feuerschütte Simone
Published: January 2024

O estudo de caso é um método recomendado para pesquisas que requerem análise aprofundada do objeto de estudo, com muitos elementos e categorias envolvidas. Já a pesquisa-ação pressupõe uma prática, uma intervenção no contexto estudado para resolver determinado problema. Usualmente, encontramos a classificação equivocada desses métodos ou uma mistura de suas definições. Afinal, quais são suas principais características? Por que são confundidos? O que possuem de semelhança e diferença? Para responder essas questões, analisamos esses métodos a partir de pesquisa bibliográfica, elaborando um quadro comparativo que permitiu constatar semelhanças e distinções entre ambos. Entre as diferenças, destacam-se os objetivos de cada método, o papel do pesquisador, as abordagens de tema, problema e objeto de estudo, e as relações com demais atores ou contexto de estudo. As etapas para sua condução são distintas, assim como a articulação entre teoria e prática. Considerando que as características identificadas em cada método, assim como suas relações, tiveram referenciais teóricos como fonte de pesquisa, entendemos que a contribuição deste artigo está na possibilidade de explorarmos, a partir dele, a prática e as percepções de pesquisadores no que diz respeito a sua aplicação. Desse modo poderíamos contribuir para superar algumas das controvérsias em torno da identidade de cada método. Além disso, consideramos que o esforço empreendido para entender suas semelhanças e distinções pode contribuir para definições metodológicas mais sólidas e coerentes na produção científica, quando se busca o alinhamento entre os propósitos da pesquisa e os melhores caminhos epistemológico-técnicos para desvendar o fenômeno a ser explorado.
Cross-Cultural Adaptation, Reliability, and Validity of the Turkish Sensory Responsiveness Questionnaire
Authors: Yükçü Recep , Kars Sinem , Huri Meral
Published: January 2024

Importance: Sensory processing difficulties are commonly seen in people with mental disorders. However, no questionnaires specific to Turkish culture are available for people with mental disorders.

Objective: To examine the cultural adaptation, reliability, and validity of the Turkish Sensory Responsiveness Questionnaire (SRQ).

Design: Causal comparative groups design.

Setting: Homes, clinics, hospitals, and therapy practices in Turkey.

Participants: A total of 913 participants, of whom 529 were participants ages 18–60 yr with mental disorders.

Outcomes and Measures: The cross-cultural adaptation and translation procedures were conducted following Beaton’s guidelines. Internal consistency was examined with Cronbach’s α. Criterion-related validity of the SRQ was determined with the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile using construct validity and was examined by confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) using IBM SPSS Statistics (Version 23) and AMOS (Version 24.0).

Results: In CFA, model fit indices showed an acceptable fit. Test–retest reliability was excellent for the hedonic and avoidance subfactor scores and for the total score (intraclass correlation coefficients = .973, .988, and .974, respectively). Internal consistency was high for the hedonic subfactor (.812) and the avoidance subfactor (.815). Participants with bipolar disorder had the highest scores on the hedonic subfactor, whereas those with schizophrenia had the highest scores on the avoidance subfactor.

Conclusions and Relevance: The 36-item SRQ is reliable and valid for analyzing the sensory processing abilities of adults in the Turkish population.

Plain-Language Summary: People with mental disorders commonly have difficulties with sensory processing. No sensory responsiveness questionnaire specific to the Turkish population or culture is available for people with mental disorders. This study shows that the current form of the Turkish Sensory Responsiveness Questionnaire can contribute to understanding the sensory processing abilities of Turkish people with and without mental disorders.
Building Muscle and Performance
Authors: Tumminello Nick
Published: January 2024

Every weekend warrior has two goals: compete successfully and look great doing it. Enter Building Muscle and Performance: A Program for Size, Strength & Speed by expert trainer Nick Tumminello.

By combining the most effective approaches and exercises, Tumminello has developed a high-octane, high-efficiency system for building muscle and boosting performance. Step by step you'll learn the best exercises for increasing speed, explosiveness, athleticism, and endurance. Push yourself to the limits with strength and power lifts and progressions, power training drills, and cardio conditioning workouts. The results are challenging yet exhilarating. You will discover performance and physique that you never thought possible.

Building Muscle and Performance includes hundreds of exercises and dozens of ready-to-use programs. Detailed photo sequences depict every movement as well as variations to increase or decrease difficulty. You'll find expert advice, equipment tips, and safety precautions. More important, you'll find the results you've been looking for.

You no longer have to choose between a chiseled physique and athletic performance. Building Muscle and Performance delivers the best of both worlds: the muscle and the hustle!
Lower Body Training
Authors: Brown Jason
Published: January 2024

Get the help you need to achieve a stronger lower body. Lower Body Training is a comprehensive guide containing the most up-to-date, scientifically proven strategies for increasing lower body size, strength, and power. Jason Brown, a program design expert who has worked with CrossFit affiliates and strength and conditioning facilities around the world, shares his innovative programs for a variety of different training goals, ranging from increased lower body size and strength to improved athletic performance.

Lower Body Training offers dozens of options for developing all the muscles of the lower body. The exercises are organized by the movement patterns they target—quad dominant, hip dominant, isolation, and plyometric—and feature variations based on the equipment you have available without sacrificing results. You will also find recommendations for selecting a balance of exercises to maximize effectiveness and reduce lower back pain and other potential overuse or acute injuries.

Best of all, Lower Body Training includes programs using maximal, submaximal, and dynamic training methods. The programs—categorized by beginner, intermediate, or advanced—target specific goals such as hypertrophy, strength, or athletic performance. Plus, there are variations for making staple exercises even more effective.

Whether your goal is increased lower body size and strength or improved athletic performance, Lower Body Training has the tools to help you get there.

Earn continuing education credits/units! A continuing education exam that uses this book is also available. It may be purchased separately or as part of a package that includes both the book and exam.
Pacing
Authors: Thompson Kevin G.
Published: January 2024

We've all heard the advice “Pace yourself. Save energy and finish strong.” It sounds simple enough, so why is it so hard? Why do even supremely conditioned elite athletes mismanage their energy supplies and fail to finish strong? Pacing: Individual Strategies for Optimal Performance examines the latest science, research, and application in search of answers.

This guide explores the role of pacing in sports, the most common strategies used, the factors that influence effectiveness, and key considerations for today's athletes and coaches. You'll also discover these aspects:
How environmental variables, such as temperature and terrain, can affect performanceHow to choose the best pacing strategy for any eventHow to use pacing to defeat an opponentThe role the brain plays in pacing strategies

Part I explains the biological and psychological underpinnings of pacing science, including the six commonly used pacing strategies that are discussed in detail throughout the book: all-out, positive, even, negative, parabolic, and variable. Part II shows how to apply the science, offering pacing recommendations and considerations for time-dependent sports such as running, triathlon, and swimming and exploring the role of pacing in racket sports and several team sports. Combining scientific research and real-world profiles of elite athletes and coaches, Pacing: Individual Strategies for Optimal Performance shows coaches and athletes how to develop the ideal pacing plan for every competition.
Secrets of Successful Program Design
Authors: Cosgrove Alwyn , Rasmussen Craig
Published: January 2024

“Alwyn and Craig are two of the best teachers in the fitness industry. I only wish I'd had this resource years ago when first starting out in my career!”

—Eric Cressey, President of Cressey Sports Performance

“Alwyn and Craig have written something that is much more than another fitness book. This book is the state of the art in training. Whether you are a personal trainer, a sport coach, or just a fitness enthusiast, you will be happy you picked this book up.”

—Michael Boyle, Owner of Mike Boyle Strength and Conditioning

“If you want the best knife, go to Japan; if you want the best watch, go to Switzerland; and if you want the best training system, read Secrets of Successful Program Design.”

—Nick Winkelman, PhD, Head of Athletic Performance for Irish Rugby and Author of The Language of Coaching

Your success as a fitness professional depends on your ability to reliably deliver results to clients. In Secrets of Successful Program Design: A How-To Guide for Busy Fitness Professionals, noted fitness and program design expert Alwyn Cosgrove and his director of programming, Craig Rasmussen, share Alwyn’s proven system for creating programs that take clients from where they are to where they want to be.

You’ll learn how to properly assess a client and design the most effective program based on their individual goal—whether that is fat loss, muscle and strength building, or improved overall conditioning. You’ll also learn how to tailor the training experience of your client on the fly, effectively progressing and regressing exercises according to day-to-day fluctuations in abilities and needs. This will ensure you are delivering the best results possible for each client every time they train.

This guide to building training programs is supplemented with a selection of predesigned workouts that will draw on your skills for progressing and regressing exercises, saving you valuable time and energy while still allowing you to produce a personalized experience for your client.

A reliable system-based approach to program design that consistently delivers results to every client—regardless of demographic profile, ability, or goals—will set your training business up for success in the incredibly competitive fitness market.
The M.A.X. Muscle Plan 2.0
Authors: Schoenfeld Brad
Published: January 2024

"The M.A.X. Muscle Plan 2.0 is a must-read for all aspiring fitness enthusiasts who seek to maximize their muscularity. Brad Schoenfeld is the world's premier hypertrophy specialist. His combination of academic research–based knowledge with practical in-the-trenches gym experience sets this program apart from everything else on the market."

Bret Contreras, PhD

Author of Glute Lab and Bodyweight Strength Training Anatomy

"When it comes to conducting, synthesizing, and communicating research on muscle hypertrophy, there is no one better than Brad Schoenfeld. I simply cannot recommend his book enough. If muscle growth is a goal for you, then you'd be doing yourself a disservice to not read this book."

Layne Norton, PhD

Pro Natural Bodybuilder

"In The M.A.X. Muscle Plan 2.0, Brad offers programs that are scientifically sound, giving you maximal results in minimal time."

Tom Venuto

Author of Burn the Fat, Feed the Muscle

Blast through training plateaus, add lean muscle, and achieve your best body ever with The M.A.X. Muscle Plan 2.0, Second Edition, a scientifically proven program to help you maximize your muscle potential and transform your physique.

Developed by renowned strength and fitness expert and best-selling author Brad Schoenfeld, the book provides a six-month periodized program that manipulates exercise variables to generate clear and steady muscle growth. The second edition has been completely revamped to include updated science and research-based evidence as well as 12 sidebars that break down specific topics and offer applied examples. Two new chapters have also been added: a chapter of detailed information on the M.A.X. warm-up and a Q&A chapter that provides answers to 13 common questions Schoenfeld has received since the first edition of the book.

With step-by-step instructions for 106 of the most effective exercises, guidance for incorporating cardiorespiratory workouts into the program, and nutrition recommendations for fueling muscle growth and recovery, The M.A.X. Muscle Plan 2.0 is your complete guide to total-body transformation.

If you’re ready to take your body to the next level, then turn to The M.A.X. Muscle Plan 2.0. The results will speak for themselves.
Diversity and distribution of ferns and clubmosses in the eastern canyons of Isalo National Park, Madagascar
Authors: Randrianarimanana Rivoharifara , Rakotondrainibe France , Boucheron-Dubuisson Elodie , Marline Lovanomenjanahary , Rakotoarinivo Mijoro , Reeb Catherine
Published: January 2024

Background and aims – In contrast to the flowering plants, the pteridophyte flora of Madagascar is still understudied. While several studies have been published on the eastern and central parts of the island, there are currently few works dedicated to the pteridophytes of southwestern Madagascar. The aim of this work is to increase the knowledge of the pteridophyte flora of the Isalo massif in southwestern Madagascar. It presents a checklist of Isalo’s pteridophytes and an analysis of the diversity and distribution patterns of pteridophyte communities across ecological gradients in the eastern canyons of Isalo.

Material and methods – Eighty plots were placed in six canyons. In each plot, pteridophyte species abundance was inventoried, as well as several ecological and geomorphological variables. A census in the field and observations on specimens in herbaria were carried to make a checklist of all the pteridophyte species known for Isalo. Statistical analysis was carried out to understand the pteridophyte diversity and distribution patterns in the Isalo’s canyons: (1) exploratory analysis (FAMD and HCPC) highlights the general patterns of ecological gradients, (2) a rarefaction curve was used to compare species diversity, and (3) co-inertia analysis investigated the relationship between ecological gradient and pteridophyte communities.

Key results – In total, 60 species of ferns and lycophytes have been recorded in the massif, including ten endemic species to Madagascar and 11 species reported for the first time in the Isalo massif. Species diversity is especially high in the northern canyons (Anjofo, Andramanero, Antsifotra) in contrast to the middle (Maki and Rats) and southern (Namaza) canyons. Fern distribution patterns were correlated to a combination of environmental factors, highlighting species-specific ecological preferences.
Food Security: An Analysis of Maize Production Pattern Before and After the Boko–Haram Period in Mubi North Local Government Area, Adamawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Garandi Danjuma Ijudigal
Published: January 2024

Lack of food has been identified as one of the constraints faced by most people in the study area. The study was conducted in Mubi North Local Government Area of Adamawa State. It analyzed maize production pattern before and after the insurgency in the area. One hundred and sixty (160) registered maize farmers were selected using purposive and simple random sampling techniques and were served with a well – structured questionnaire through which primary data was generated for the study. Specific objectives of the study were to: describe the socio – economic characteristics of the respondents, identify production of maize pattern before and after the insurgency in the study area, and estimate cost of basic inputs used in maize production before and after the insurgency and identify maize production challenges that militate better out-put and good returns. The study concludes that maize production is control by small scale poor resource farmers before and after the insurgency in the area who are faced with dwindling resource capacity that further limited their out –put. 44% of the maize farmers before the insurgency produced 1 – 5 tons, and 63% after insurgency produced less than 1 tons, which is as a result of inaccessibility and high cost of production inputs such as fertilizer and tractor machines. The result revealed a reduction in farm size, use of in inorganic fertilizer and tractor respectively after the insurgency. Similar, it shows that, use of herbicides has increased after the insurgency due to reduction in use of tractor and oxen plough as a means of land preparation. The findings has raised the following salient points: further utilization of chemical herbicides might cause environmental pollution and health risk in the area, food insecurity of the households in the area could be aggravated due to observed increased in prices of herbicides, inadequate access to inorganic fertilizers and tractors, hence the study recommends that; non – governmental organization should intervene by providing supports in areas of inputs, capacity building on alternative fertilizers and appropriate tools, government should intensify security outfit to checkmate insecurity and insurgency in the area, farmers should form cooperatives and association to pool their resources together and pursue common goal (s),that might improve their out-put, productivity, food security, livelihood and minimize poverty on a sustainable basis.
The Futurity of Indigenous Languages in Nollywood Movies
Authors: Nnabuife Chika Onyinye , Orji Dereck Martins Akachukwu , Ezekwelu Kingsley Chukudubem
Published: January 2024

This qualitative research delves into the futurity of indigenous languages in the context of Nollywood movies, employing a dual methodology of Focus Group Discussions (FGD) and in-depth interviews. Participants spanning two age groups, 18-36 and 36-70, engaged in the FGD sessions, adding depth and diversity to the study. The research is anchored in the Language Vitality Theory and Cultural Hybridity Theory, providing a robust theoretical framework for exploration. The study sets forth four primary objectives. Firstly, it aims to scrutinize the audience’s consumption patterns of indigenous language films vis-a-vis English language movies in Nollywood. Secondly, it delves into the audience’s perceptions and interpretations of the cultural and linguistic dimensions presented in indigenous language movies. Thirdly, the research investigates the factors contributing to the sustained use and relevance of indigenous languages in Nollywood filmmaking. Finally, the study scrutinizes the potential future roles of indigenous languages in the Nollywood film industry. The research questions, strategically derived from the objectives, guide the inquiry process. Key findings underscore the significance of subtitles in enhancing audience engagement, comprehension, and enjoyment. Participants expressed a preference for subtitles, emphasizing their role in reducing the linguistic barrier and enhancing the overall movie-watching experience. In conclusion, the study recommends concerted efforts to enhance the quality and authenticity of indigenous languages in Nollywood. Particularly, it advocates for substantial investment in subtitles, recognizing them as a pivotal factor in bridging linguistic gaps and ensuring a broader audience base. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on the role of indigenous languages in the ever-evolving landscape of Nollywood, shedding light on both current consumption patterns and potential future trajectories.
HELICOBACTER PYLORI INFECTION IN PATIENTS WITH DYSPEPTIC SYMPTOMS HAVING NORMAL ENDOSCOPY
Authors: Muhammad  Farooq  , Hussain Tassawar , Khan Muhammad Naeem , Mirza Shakeel Ahmed , Majida Farooq
Published: January 2024

Objective: To find out the frequency of Helicobacter pylori infection in the local population presenting with dyspeptic symptoms but having normal upper gastrointestinal endoscopic findings Study Design: This descriptive study was carried out in gastroenterology department of Military Hospital Rawalpindi. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in the department of gastro intestinal of Military Hospital Rawalpindi from November 2004 to September 2005. Patients and Methods: Hundred cases of dyspepsia having normal upper gastrointestinal endoscopy were taken as study population. Although the gold standard for presence or absence of Helicobacter pylori infection is culture but in this study the diagnostic method used was histopathology of gastric antrum. Results: The male and female ratio was 2:1. Majority of the patients were either 40 years of age or less, mean age being 40.52(sd±13.22). The chief symptoms were pain epigastrium (46%) and upper abdominal discomfort (27%). Helicobacter pylori gastritis was found in 51% of cases.

Conclusion: We conclude that Helicobacter pylori infection is quite common in dyspeptic patients apparently having normal endoscopic gastric mucosal findings. Eradication therapy should be instituted in positive cases to avoid its long-term complications.
Fitossociologia do estrato herbáceo das dunas do litoral norte da Bahia
Authors: Silva Márcia Cardoso da , Santos Valdira de Jesus
Published: January 2024

O presente trabalho objetivou descrever a estrutura do estrato herbáceo e caracterizar o status de conservação das dunas da praia do Flamengo, no litoral norte da Bahia. Para o levantamento fitossociológico foi utilizado o método de parcelas, analisando-se os parâmetros de cobertura e frequência (absolutas e relativas) e valor de importância. Também foram avaliados os índices de diversidade e de similaridade. Amostrou-se 980 indivíduos pertencentes a 12 espécies, com destaque para Chamaecrista ramosa (80,51%), Comolia ovalifolia (39,44%), Rhynchospora riparia (31,63%) e Lagenocarpus rigidus (14, 36%), que apresentaram os maiores valores de importância. O índice de diversidade de Shannon-Wiener apresentou H’ = 1,92 e a equabilidade J’ = 0,75. A similaridade mostrou-se maior quando comparada à flora de Massarandupió (38,09%). Os impactos identificados foram considerados de baixo dano ambiental. No entanto, medidas deverão ser tomadas para evitar a intensificação da degradação.
Potencial turístico, conflitos e planejamento do turismo de base comunitária na Reserva Extrativista Marinha da Lagoa do Jequiá – AL
Authors: Conceição Jéssica Patrícia da , Corrêa Domingos Sávio
Published: January 2024

Este artigo tem como objetivo analisar as potencialidades turísticas, os conflitos e a necessidade de planejamento do turismo de base comunitária na Reserva Extrativista Marinha da Lagoa do Jequiá, no município de Jequiá da Praia, Alagoas, visando o desenvolvimento local e a melhoria na qualidade de vida da população extrativista. Este é um estudo exploratório, de cunho qualitativo e viés descritivo. Para a sua construção foram utilizadas técnicas como a entrevista em profundidade com representantes das comunidades extrativistas, observação direta e pesquisa documental. Os resultados parciais desta pesquisa indicam que a reserva extrativista possui recursos com potencial turístico e a comunidade extrativista tem interesse no planejamento do turismo de base comunitária. Apesar dos conflitos existentes no território, os extrativistas acreditam que tal atividade pode contribuir de forma positiva para o desenvolvimento local.
Avaliação do uso e cobertura da terra e da qualidade da água da Sub-bacia do Lajeado Pardo no Noroeste do Rio Grande do Sul
Authors: Flach Kauane Andressa , Bisognin Ramiro Pereira , Rosa Genesio Mario da , Bones Ubiratan Alegransi , Sipert William Wichrowski
Published: January 2024

Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo avaliar o uso e ocupação da terra e a qualidade da água de cinco microbacias do Lajeado Pardo, no noroeste do Rio Grande do Sul, nos municípios de Frederico Westphalen e Taquaruçu do Sul. Para tanto, as diferentes condições de uso e ocupação da terra foram classificadas como: formação florestal; agricultura ou pastagem; infraestrutura urbana; rios, lagos e açudes e lavoura temporária. Os parâmetros de qualidade da água analisados foram: nitrato, nitrito, amônia, fósforo, pH, condutividade elétrica, coliformes totais, Escherichia coli (E. coli), turbidez, sólidos dissolvidos totais e temperatura. Além disso, foi calculado o índice de estado trófico (IET) que está relacionado ao grau de qualidade por enriquecimento de fósforo total, principal elemento causador da eutrofização. Pela análise de uso e ocupação da terra, constatou-se que as cinco microbacias são ocupadas majoritariamente por atividades agrícolas, como lavoura temporária (58,84%) e agricultura ou pastagem (15,57%). Os parâmetros fósforo e E. coli apresentaram, em média, valores elevados, enquadrando as águas dos cinco pontos amostrados como Classe 4 pela Resolução CONAMA nº 357/05. Ainda, as águas em todos os pontos apresentaram IET hipereutrófico. Esses resultados podem ser decorrentes das atividades de uso e ocupação da terra, possivelmente pela lixiviação de fósforo utilizada na fertilização fosfatada nas áreas agricultáveis, aplicação de dejetos suínos no solo em virtude da expressiva criação de suínos na região e esgotamento sanitário deficitário.
Análise das pesquisas sobre juventudes na pós-graduação da Geografia brasileira
Authors: Oliveira Victor Hugo Nedel
Published: January 2024

As Geografias das Juventudes vêm se configurando como um novo subcampo de pesquisa, ainda que jovem, como os sujeitos com os quais se investiga, e suas relações com elementos centrais relacionados ao espaço, tais como: a cidade, o campo, a escola. O principal objetivo do presente artigo é apresentar a continuidade dos levantamentos e análises da investigação de estado da arte das pesquisas sobre Juventudes, no âmbito da Geografia, na pós-graduação brasileira. Para tanto, foi desenvolvido levantamento bibliográfico a partir da Biblioteca Digital Brasileira de Teses e Dissertações (BDTD), tendo sido selecionadas 41 pesquisas de pós-graduação para análise. Foram levantados dados sobre a principal área das pesquisas; os objetivos gerais dos trabalhos; os autores mais citados e as questões metodológicas dos trabalhos. Dentre os principais resultados evidenciados, verificou-se que a maioria dos trabalhos encontra-se vinculada a um campo territorial da Geografia. Em relação aos verbos dos objetivos gerais dos trabalhos, analisar e compreender foram os mais utilizados. Em relação aos autores mais citados, foram organizadas categorias para melhor análise. A maioria das pesquisas foi de caráter qualitativo e utilizando de entrevistas e questionários para coleta dos dados. Quanto à população, a totalidade dos trabalhos investigou com jovens. Em relação ao cenário, cidade e escola figuraram como os mais utilizados. Por fim, na maioria dos trabalhos não foram localizadas informações sobre as questões éticas das investigações.
A paisagem dos museus de imigrantes holandeses a partir de um sistema de criação de signos
Authors: Siqueira Ana Cristina Costa , Chagas Bruna Iara Lorian , Carvalho Brendo Francis , Nabozny Almir
Published: January 2024

Os museus de imigrantes holandeses são locais de compartilhamento das trajetórias e memórias por meio das paisagens construídas. As estruturas de ordem simbólica se destacam enquanto campo de importância para estudo na Nova Geografia Cultural em razão de estarem repletas de símbolos e significados que se conectam com um imaginário materializado nessas paisagens museológicas. A partir disso, o estudo objetiva analisar a paisagem cultural presente nos museus da imigração holandesa enquanto um sistema de significados que permite que seja interpretada e lida enquanto texto. A operacionalização do trabalho consistiu no acesso a documentos dos museus Parque Histórico de Carambeí e do Centro Cultural de Castrolanda, do primeiro se analisou o Manual do Monitor, o Catálogo Institucional e a Cartilha Pedagógica, já do segundo foi estudado a Cartilha Institucional. Para as interpretações das paisagens foi utilizado o sistema de criação de signos debatidos por Duncan (2004) e também o proposto por Gomes (2013) sobre o ponto de vista, composição e exposição contidas em registros fotográficos. As interpretações foram guiadas pelos símbolos de representação respectivos aos conceitos formadores das colônias de imigrantes holandeses, sendo eles o ‘trabalho’, a ‘educação’, o ‘cooperativismo’ e a ‘religião’. Portanto, a análise destes símbolos oportuniza a compreensão dos significados que permeiam essas paisagens e sua constante reprodução, valorizando e exaltando a cultura e os costumes dos pioneiros holandeses, fazendo dessa narrativa histórica uma forma potencial de consumo turístico.