bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceived Influence of Counseling-Driven Value Reorientation in Addressing Moral Decadence among Undergraduate Students in Universities in Benue State
Authors: Martina Goshwe , Otini Adejoh Gloria
Published: December 2023

The study investigated the perceived influence of counseling-driven value reorientation in addressing moral decadence among undergraduate students in universities in Benue State. The study adopted a survey research design. The population comprises 36,326 undergraduate students in public Universities in Benue State. The sample size for the study was 396 undergraduate students who were selected using proportionate stratified and accidental sampling techniques. The instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire titled “Counselling-Driven Value Reorientation and Moral Decadence Questionnaire” (CDVRMDQ). The questionnaire was validated by experts. The reliability of the questionnaire was established using Cronbach Alpha method which yielded a coefficient of 0.83. Data collected for the study were analyzed using Means and Standard Deviation to answer the research questions while Chi-Square Goodness of Fit was used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The study’s findings revealed that academic dishonesty, drug and substance abuse, sexual misconduct, criminal activities, examination malpractice, lack of civic responsibility, dishonesty, cultism, gang activity, among other issues, were the prevalent forms of moral decadence among undergraduates in public universities in Benue State. Furthermore, the key factors contributing to moral decadence were identified as peer influence, socioeconomic challenges, parental and family influence, inadequate counseling and guidance, academic pressure, and concerns related to unemployment, among others. Additionally, the study indicated that undergraduate students expressed a strong willingness to actively participate in counseling-driven value reorientation programs. Moreover, it was established that counseling-driven value reorientation programs had a perceived positive influence in addressing moral decadence among undergraduate students in universities within Benue State. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the significant role that counseling-driven value reorientation programs can play in addressing and mitigating moral decadence among undergraduate students in public universities located in Benue State. To address these concerns effectively, the study recommends that universities should integrate value reorientation and moral education as core courses within their curriculum, providing students with a robust foundation in ethics and civic responsibility. Furthermore, universities should continuously assess and adapt counseling-driven value reorientation programs to ensure their ongoing effectiveness in addressing moral decadence among undergraduate students.
Traditional Rulers Gold Mining and the Rise of Banditry in Zamfara State, Nigeria, 2015-2023
Authors: Itodo Felicia
Published: December 2023

Zamfara State is one of the seven states in northwestern Nigeria. In recent years, the state has witnessed an increase in the wave of banditry. This has drawn the attention of scholars to begin to probe the linkage between illicit gold mining, traditional rulers, and rise of banditry in the State. Gold mining which is at the centre of the conflict, has long been a significant economic activity which has attracted both legal and illegal miners. Unfortunately, illicit gold mining has taken the centre stage and this portends grave danger for the state. One of the key players in this wave of criminality, are some traditional rulers, who ordinarily are supposed to be the custodians of peace in the State but have neglected those roles and have resorted to providing protection and support to the illegal miners in exchange for personal gains. The paper deploys the use of resource curse theory which postulates that the presence of minerals in an area could breed conflict. The study assumes that there is a deeper link between traditional rulers, illicit gold mining and banditry in Zamfara State. Using primary and secondary sources, the paper argues that the traditional institutions in Zamfara State have failed in their primary responsibilities in promoting peace and social harmony in the State which explains the rise of criminal activities in the State which has led to the wanton destruction of lives and properties. The paper concludes that the roadmap to peace in the region lies in the complete overhaul of the traditional institutions of the State. The objective being to draw their attention back to their responsibilities. The paper also recommends that appropriate sanctions should be meted on traditional rulers found complicit in fueling conflict in Zamfara State.
LIDERANÇA NAS ORGANIZAÇÕES: UM ESTUDO TEÓRICO SOBRE A LIDERANÇA SERVIDORA E A LIDERANÇA TRANSFORMACIONAL
Authors: Lopes Victor
Published: December 2023

O presente trabalho expõe, através de pesquisa exploratória feita com base em revisões bibliográficas, incluindo artigos e outros trabalhos acadêmicos, as abordagens da Liderança Servidora e da Liderança Transformacional, destacando suas origens, princípios fundamentais, aplicações práticas e diferenças. Ambas as abordagens compartilham a ênfase nas relações interpessoais, motivação e trabalho em equipe. No entanto, divergem em relação à tomada de decisão e ao poder, com a Liderança Servidora promovendo uma abordagem mais descentralizada e colaborativa, enquanto a Liderança Transformacional mantém uma autoridade centralizada para impulsionar uma visão ambiciosa. A comunicação na Liderança Servidora é aberta, enquanto na Liderança Transformacional é frequentemente carismática e persuasiva. Em última análise, ambas as abordagens têm seu lugar e aplicação, dependendo das necessidades e do contexto da equipe e da organização, e muitos líderes eficazes combinam elementos de ambas as abordagens para se adaptar às circunstâncias e inspirar seus seguidores.
GAMBLING HABITS AMONG VIDEO GAME PLAYERS
Authors: Zoričić Zoran , Novak Valentina , Mikulčić Mirna , Šimić Josip
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Gambling is a legal and socially accepted recreational activity that can progress into a
serious public health problem. The prevalence of gambling is higher among men of younger age and
lower economic status, and older divorced men. There are many similarities between playing video
games and gambling that the industry encourages by implementing the elements gambling into video
games, and the elements of video games in gambling, but despite the similarities, in problem use we
recognize two separate behavioral disorders.
Methods and participants: The research was conducted on an intentional and judgmental sample of
adolescents and young adults who play video games. A questionnaire containing questions on
sociodemographic characteristics, video game playing and gambling habits, and the SOGS-RA was used
to assess the gambling risk.
Results: Most of the participants gamble very rarely or not at all, but 5.1% of the participants gamble
every day. Almost all of the participants play several types of games of chance, with lottery games,
sports betting and games on electronic devices leading the way. Pronounced problems with gambling
were recognized in 28.3% of the research participants.
Discussion: The lifetime prevalence of gambling in this research is similar to the results of other research
conducted among video game players, although the results of all research in this area are not
homogeneous. When comparing the results of gambling among video game players and the general
population, the prevalence of gambling among video game players is significantly higher than in the
general population.
Conclusion: Adolescent and young adult video game players play more games of chance, and prefer
gambling games that have a higher addictive potential. Considering the age, easy accessibility and the
difficult recognition of the development of problem gambling, it is important to focus preventive
activities on the youngest age group.
Key words: games of chance, video game players, problem gambling
THORACIC LONGUS NERVE LESION IN A PATIENT WITH ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS
Authors: Budišin Vesna , Cesarik Marijan , Rosić Davorka , Radić Borislav , Topić Marica
Published: December 2023

The paper presents a 33 - year - old patient who has been suffering from ankylosing spondylitis
since the age of 28. Pain in his right shoulder and weakness in his right arm developed after
more hours of walking with a backpack. The performed procedure diagnosed a lesion of the
long thoracic nerve without of sensory damage. Peripheral nerve injuries long thoracic nerve
lead to weakness of the muscles -serratus anterior muscle and result in a protrusion of the medial
side of the scapula (scapula alata). It is difficult to raise the arm in the shoulder joint above the
horizontal line, that is to raise the shoulder from the chest when the arm is extended and pressed
against a fixed object in front of the patient. Due to its long, relatively superficial course, long
thoracic nerve is susceptible to injury, either through direct trauma or stretching. The long
thoracic nerve, also called Charles Bell’s external respiratory nerve, is a rare isolated nerve
damage. The nerve is often injured from carrying a load on his shoulder, with supraclavicular
and axillary injuries, blows in the neck area. Injury has been reported in almost all sports,
usually occurring from a blow to the ribs with an outstretched arm. Long thoracic nerve can be
damaged during breast cancer surgery, especially radical mastectomy that involve the removal
of axillary lymph nodes. It is a common lesion in spinal surgeries.
Key words: Lesion, long thoracic nerve, ankylosing spondylitis
QUALITY OF LIFE OF PATIENTS WITH STRESS URINARY INCONTINENCE TREATED WITH TWO SURGICAL METHODS: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED STUDY
Authors: Tomić Tanja , Ivanković Anita
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Static or stress urinary incontinence unquestionably in women has a significant
negative impact on quality of life. Surgical treatment is the standard way of treating women
with static stress incontinence, if the desired effect is not achieved with a conservative method
of treatment.
Objectives: To compare the quality of life of a group of patients with stress urinary incontinence
surgically treated with Hammock method with the group treated by Needle method, and to
compare the results with the quality of life of a healthy population of women.
Methods: The study used the recommended questionnaire from the International Consultation
on Incontinence, a short questionnaire ICIQ- SF. This questionnaire was used to collect data on
symptomatology, frequency, amount of urine, and the impact on the quality of life before and
after surgical treatment.
Results: A statistically significant difference (p<0.05) in improving the quality of life of patients
operated on needle method was found, significantly higher after surgery. It was also found that
there was a statistically significant difference (p<0.05) in improving the quality of life and in
patients operated on by the Hammock method. Patients who underwent Needle surgery reported
a better quality of life after surgery, compared to patients who underwent Hammock surgery.
No statistically significant difference (p>0.05) was found between the postoperative quality of
life of patients operated on the Needle method and people without incontinence difficulties.
Conclusion: The results of the research have shown that the Needle method is more effective
in improving the quality of life of patients with stress urinary incontinence 6 months after
surgery.
Keywords: stress incontinence, quality of life, surgical methods
Nano perfect mappings
Authors: Mohsin E. A. , Yousif Y. Y.
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we will introduce and study the concept of nano perfect mappings by using the definition of nano continuous mapping and nano closed mapping, study the relationship between them, and discuss them with many related theories and results. The k-space and its relationship with nano-perfect mapping are also defined.
On S-acts and bounded linear operators
Authors: Atiya Zainab Abed , Ibrahem Nadia M. J. , Adeeb Noor Riyadh
Published: December 2023

The relation between faithful, finitely generated, separated acts and the one-to-one operators was investigated, and the associated S-act of coshT and its attributes have been examined. In this paper, we proved for any bounded Linear operators T, VcoshT is faithful and separated S-act, and if a Banach space V is finite-dimensional, VcoshT is infinitely generated.
About minimal and maximal via ipre- continuous functions
Authors: Abdulqader Reem Taha , Abdulqader Zinah Taha , Hadi Mustafa Hasan
Published: December 2023

Examining the contemporary course of sets based on the idea of ipre-open set. The significant concepts presented in work are min ipre-open and max ipre-open. Other than, unused sorts of topological spaces presented, which are called Tipre max and Tipre min in spaces. Moreover, we display two modern capacities of progression, which are called min ipre-continuous and max ipre-continuous.
Solutions of nonlinear fractional integro - differential equations by combined sumudu transform with adomian decomposition approach
Authors: Hussein Qays Jasem , Altaie Huda Omran
Published: December 2023

The Caputo formulation is used to handle fractional derivatives in this study. The well-known method form employs Adomian’s polynomials as the proper mathematical tool for dealing with nonlinear variables. The integral equation may be solved by applying the Sumudu transformation to both sides and then the terms can be written out. The solution is given as a convergent infinite series. Nonlinear Volterra integro-differential equations with fractional derivatives are amenable to the proposed method. The results strongly support the validity, applicability, and efficacy of the approach.
On fixed point theorems of maximal monotone operators
Authors: Alobadi Mustafa Dawood , Maibed Zena Hussein
Published: December 2023

This paper aims to study the viscosity approximation approach to fixed points and the solution of a variational inequality. Also, we introduce a new iterative technique and establish the convergence theorems under certain conditions in the Hilbert space.
On Gα -open sets
Authors: Ali Tabarak A. , Esmaeel R. B.
Published: December 2023

The new concepts in grill topological spaces are investigated in this study by employing specified sets in which the α-open sets are defined and grill topological spaces. Properties of this set and certain relationships are studied, examining a group of functions, like open, closed, and continuous functions, determining their relation with each other and giving examples and properties associated with this set. This shall serve as the beginning of examining numerous topological properties with this set.
Neue Zeiten, neue Schadensbilder?
Authors: Eisenkrein-Kreksch Helena , Messal Constanze , Klingelhöfer Gerhard , Lukowsky Dirk , Cosler Markus , Böhmer Heike
Published: December 2023

Immer häufiger müssen sich Sachverständige sowohl bei Neubauten als auch im Bestand mit Schadstoffen in Bauwerken auseinandersetzen. Diese richtig zu erkennen, zu untersuchen und zu bewerten ist Thema des 58. Frankfurter Bausachverständigentags.

Ein Großteil der Schäden an Gebäuden sind Feuchteschäden. Mit der richtigen Planung, Ausführung und Sanierung von Abdichtungen beschäftigen sich weitere Beiträge dieses Tagungsbandes. Anhand von Fallbeispielen werden Problempunkte, Ursachen sowie die zugrundeliegenden Fehler aufgezeigt und analysiert. Empfehlungen für mangelfreie und dauerhafte Sanierung und Hinweise zu Eignung und Grenzen dieser Maßnahmen helfen, Schäden richtig zu beurteilen und eine Sanierungsplanung vorzunehmen.

Behandelt wird auch die Frage, welche Schadensbilder aufgrund des Klimawandels und der immer häufiger auftretenden Extremwetterlagen entstehen und welche Anforderungen sich daraus an Sachverständige ergeben.

Zudem wird aus rechtlicher Sicht die Frage des unterschiedlichen Umgangs mit Feuchteschäden im Baurecht und Mietrecht behandelt.
Case Series to Evaluate the Efficacy of Selected Treatment Modality in the Management of Vātakantaka (Planter Fasciitis)
Authors: Sewwandi Samaranayaka Liyanage Gayani , Hazari Fathima Shazmin , Hewage Kalani Deneesha
Published: December 2023

Heel pain is the most prevalent condition these days, and it affects 1 in 10 people at some point in their lives. Various disorders can cause heel discomfort, but one with a high prevalence rate is plantar fasciitis. Vātakantaka and Plantar Fasciitis may be connected in Ayurveda. Walking on an uneven surface and suffering repeated injuries cause Vāta Prakōpa (vitiation of humor), which develops a stinging pain similar to a thorn in the heel area and ultimately results in Vātakantaka. Adults’ heel pain is frequently brought on by plantar fasciitis. Pain that is particularly intense with the first few steps made in the morning is how the disorder typically shows. Plantar fasciitis typically resolves on its own. However, when there is less time between the onset of symptoms and the start of treatment, symptoms typically go away faster. The purpose of this study is to determine the efficacy of selected treatment modalities in the management of Vātakantaka. Four case presentations with a follow-up of one month were studied. Treatment modality, including Ēranda Saptaka Kwātha, Yōgarāja Guggulu, Dhāthri Chūrna, Navarathna Kalka, Sarshapa Thaila, Ketakēla Pattu, and Agni Karma, was advised for four weeks. Pre- and post-treatment assessments of subjective and objective criteria were made. According to the results, most of the symptoms were healed 100%, while some were reduced up to 66.66% and 33.33%. It may be concluded that the selected treatment modality is a secure and reliable treatment for Vātakantaka.
Editorial
Authors: Garay Rodriguez Andrya Miriam
Published: December 2023

No hay resúmenes disponibles.
Realidad Empresarial No. 16, 2023: 5-6.
aproximación a la situación de la empresa salvadoreña en el primer semestre del 2023
Authors: Cuéllar Estrada Nataly Raquel , Morales Concepción Mauricio Alejandro , Tovar Osegueda Diego Enrique , Cartagena de Leiva Haydee Beatriz
Published: December 2023

La situación empresarial en El Salvador ha enfrentado una serie de desafíos en la etapa posterior a la pandemia del COVID 19, sumado a un contexto de crisis económica e inflación generalizada que ha llevado a la búsqueda de respuestas y alternativas para la sostenibilidad del sector empresarial. El presente artículo tiene como objetivo recopilar información sobre la situación de las empresas salvadoreñas en el primer semestre del 2023, identificar las áreas críticas y oportunidades, así como las recomendaciones identificadas a partir del análisis de dicho sector. La metodología utilizada está basada en un estudio cuantitativo a través de encuestas realizadas a las micro, pequeñas, medianas y a la gran empresa ubicada en diferentes municipios del territorio nacional. Entre los principales resultados del estudio se encuentra que el mayor porcentaje de las empresas está concentrado en las microempresas, que la inflación es un factor relevante que ha afectado fuertemente su situación económica, sumando a la necesidad de obtener financiamiento para el desarrollo de sus operaciones, la importancia del comercio electrónico y la mejora en la seguridad percibida con la implementación del régimen de excepción. Entre las principales conclusiones encontradas se puede mencionar la necesidad de apoyos gubernamentales en capacitaciones en temas empresariales, financiamiento y capital, así como facilitar recursos que les permitan incursionar en mercados digitales y promover el comercio electrónico.
Realidad Empresarial No. 16, 2023: 30-46.
Productos financieros dirigidos a mujeres en El Salvador: tendencias y desafíos
Authors: Alvarado Flores Carmen Elena , Arteaga Ponce Franklin Brayan , Benítez Cruz Sandra Noemy , Delgado Pérez Jackelyne Esmeralda
Published: December 2023

Este artículo presenta un análisis de las diferencias entre productos y servicios financieros dirigidos a las mujeres y los tradicionales. Se desarrolla en el marco de la ejecución de la Política Nacional de Inclusión Financiera en El Salvador como un esfuerzo que beneficia la inserción de grupos vulnerables, entre ellos las mujeres, al sistema financiero. La metodología utilizada fue una investigación mixta de carácter descriptiva, con enfoque cualitativo por medio de identificación en los sitios web de las instituciones de la oferta de productos dirigidos a mujeres y cuantitativa por medio del levantamiento de una encuesta a 210 personas entre ellos mujeres y hombres. Los resultados muestran que los productos y servicios dirigidos a mujeres existentes presentan limitaciones de parte de la oferta la cual se centra en su mayor parte en oportunidades de financiamiento a empresarias. Asimismo, a pesar de enfocarse en la mujer, aún no alcanzan a cubrir en su totalidad los factores sociales, económicos y/o culturales que componen sus necesidades; en cuanto a la demanda el mayor impedimento al acceso y uso de dichos productos es el desconocimiento de los mismos por parte del usuario, uno de los factores claves. Se concluye que, al contrastar con la iniciativa de la Política Nacional de Inclusión Financiera se ve cubierto el enfoque destinado a apoyar a mujeres emprendedoras por medio de financiamiento. Sin embargo, hace falta extender la oferta a modo de abarcar otro tipo de necesidades que afectan a las mujeres. Además, se hace hincapié en la importancia de la difusión de este tipo de productos y servicios que, de la mano de programas de educación financiera, promuevan un ecosistema favorable para la inserción de las mujeres al sistema financiero.
Realidad Empresarial No. 16, 2023: 47-56.
ABELIAN CATEGORY OF COARTINIAN MODULES
Authors: Do Ngoc Yen , Bui Thi Hong Cam
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we show that the category of $I$-coartinian modules forms an Abelian subcategory of the category of all $R$-modules provided that $\mathrm{ara}(I) = 1.$
A RESULT OF MEAN SQUARE EXPONENTIAL STABILITY FOR DIFFERENTIAL DELAY EQUATIONS WITH STOCHASTIC NOISE.
Authors: Nguyễn Như Quân
Published: December 2023

In the present paper, we aim to study of a class of nonlinear differential equations with stochastic noise. Firstly, we introduce the condition of local Lipschitz and a new non-linear growth condition. Then by applying Lyapunov function and semi-martingale convergence theorem, we prove that the stochastic system under consideration has a unique global solution. Additionally, we also investigate the exponential stability of the mean square.
GIẢI PHÁP NÂNG CAO CHẤT LƯỢNG CÔNG TÁC THI ĐUA, KHEN THƯỞNG TẠI TRƯỜNG ĐẠI HỌC KHOA HỌC - ĐẠI HỌC THÁI NGUYÊN
Authors: Lê Thị Liên , Phùng Thị Hải Vân
Published: December 2023

Trong những năm qua, công tác thi đua, khen thưởng tại Trường Đại học Khoa học đã có nhiều cải tiến, tạo chuyển biến tích cực góp phần hoàn thành tốt nhiệm vụ hàng năm của Nhà trường. Tuy nhiên, công tác này vẫn còn một số hạn chế, khó khăn như việc tổ chức phong trào thi đua, việc bình xét thi đua, khen thưởng, công tác nhân rộng điển hình tiên tiến, ... chưa đáp ứng được hết nguyện vọng của viên chức, người lao động trong Nhà trường. Việc phân tích thực trạng và đề xuất giải pháp nâng cao chất lượng công tác thi đua, khen thưởng có ý nghĩa quan trọng, nhằm tạo động lực, khuyến khích các tập thể, cá nhân hăng hái thi đua, lập thành tích trong lao động và công tác; góp phần thúc đẩy Nhà trường phát triển.
Evaluating knowledge levels of students with a Computerized Adaptive Test
Authors: YAĞCI Mustafa
Published: December 2023

The present study aims to develop and evaluate a CAT system for multiple-choice success tests. In this regard the measurement results obtained from the CAT system based on Item Response Theory (IRT) and the test mode based on the Classical Test Theory (CTT) were compared in terms of the knowledge level of the students, reliability of measurement and number of items. The study was conducted on 873 students from a state-university in Turkey. The research took three years three years and involved three phases. According to the findings of the present study, with the developed CAT system, academic success levels of the students were determined with very high reliability. When all the items in the test were scored according to both constructs, the relationship between the scores obtained was found to be high and meaningful in a positive direction. Moreover, there is a high, positive, significant relationship between students’ levels of knowledge that are estimated in CAT systems and the score of an achievement test they received from a Paper & Pencil test. Finally, the number of questions the students were exposed to in the CAT system was reduced by 50% compared to the test based on the CTT.
The Relationship between Knowledge Awareness and Intention to Adopt Islamic Finance in Syria
Authors: Othman Ahmed Muhamed , Bardai Barjoyai Bin , Shaghdari Fahad Al
Published: December 2023

The progress of Islamic Banking and Finance in Syria has been limited due to various factors, such as insufficient support from regulatory bodies and customers. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) play a crucial role in Syria’s national economy and employment, but they may not receive adequate backing from Islamic Banking and Finance. There is limited literature to link SMEs with the Islamic financial system, especially in Syria. Determining the importance of the Islamic finance system in SMEs in Syria specifically and other Muslim states requires tackling this research subject and providing an empirical analysis, this represents the problem of the study. This study investigates the relationship between knowledge awareness and intention to adopt Islamic finance among SMEs in Syria. Study helps individual practitioners as well as the academic and theoretical communities. The conclusions will impact policy, and the advisory council and the management of the SMEs will work together to build the strategy. Quantitative analysis was applied to measure the impact of the independent variable on the dependent one, and quantitative measures can identify subtle differences and variations between individuals. The tool used for this study is a questionnaire. the research population consists of 600 small and medium-sized companies in Syria, while the study sample consisted of 400 small and medium-sized companies to which the questionnaire was distributed. The findings revealed that the direct relationship independent variable (Knowledge Awareness) is significant factor in the adoption of Islamic Finance among SMEs in Syria. This study proves that the FinTech greatest challenge is not only to create opportunities to use modern technology in Islamic banking sector, but it can also design a framework for a digital economy based on Islamic principles according to the objectives of Shari’a principles. As a contribution, this study will serve as a guide for investors and managers to verify the compliance and adoption of Islamic finance among small and medium-sized enterprises in Syria by utilizing FinTech.
ECOLOGICAL ECONOMICS IN THE AGE OF 4IR: SPOTLIGHT ON SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES IN THE GLOBAL SOUTH
Authors: Prisca Ugomma Uwaoma  , Emmanuel Osamuyimen Eboigbe  , Simon Kaggwa  , Deborah Idowu Akinwolemiwa  , Stephen Osawaru Eloghosa
Published: December 2023

The study presents an overview of ecological Economics in the Age of 4IR with spotlight on Sustainability Initiatives in the Global South. This study delves into the intersection of ecological economics, the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), and sustainable development initiatives in the Global South. It explores the environmental implications of key 4IR technologies, analyzes economic shifts associated with the digital age, and investigates sustainability initiatives in the Global South. The study highlights successful projects in renewable energy, circular economy practices, and biodiversity conservation, showcasing the region's commitment to ecological and economic sustainability. Challenges and opportunities are discussed, emphasizing the role of inclusive innovation and global cooperation in shaping a future that harmonizes technological advancements with environmental well-being. The study concludes by underscoring the importance of the Global South in influencing a sustainable trajectory in the age of the 4IR.

Keywords:  Ecological; Economics; 4IR; Sustainability; Global South.
Pipas: um sítio dos inícios do Neolítico Médio do Sul de Portugal
Authors: Tavares da Silva Carlos , Soares Joaquina
Published: December 2023

Apresentam-se os resultados da escavação de salvamento realizada em 2000, no povoado de Pipas, dos inícios do Neolítico Médio, situado na margem direita da bacia do médio Guadiana e atualmente submerso pelas águas da barragem do Alqueva.

Com uma única e ténue camada de ocupação, revelando breve(s) estada(s) e desinvestimento no espaço doméstico, a interpretação do sítio recorre à comparação com outros contextos, datados do último quartel do 5.º e primeira metade do 4.º milénios cal B.C., enquadrado no Protomegalismo, expresso nas primeiras sepulturas construídas com pedra para eternização da memória. Estas sepulturas encontram-se ainda longe da escala que a arquitetura megalítica perseguirá na segunda metade do 4.º milénio BC, atingindo o paroxismo da monumentalização no último quartel do mesmo milénio.

Propomos para o Neolítico Médio regional um modelo económico de pastoreio e agricultura itinerante realizada em solos magros e leves, cuja fertilidade natural se esgotaria rapidamente, obrigando à frequente deslocalização das aldeias, de frágeis estruturas, que rapidamente se desvaneciam na paisagem.
O Neolítico Médio no sítio de ar livre da Costa do Pereiro (Torres Novas)
Authors: Carvalho António Faustino , Antunes-Ferreira Nathalie , Francisco Gibaja Juan
Published: December 2023

Os dados de escavação e laboratório do Neolítico Médio na Costa do Pereiro (escavado em 1995-2000) permanecem largamente inéditos. O seu processo de formação (camada 1b) apresenta diversas limitações (fatores de bioturbação, pequena espessura da camada, ocupações mesolíticas prévias, recorrência das ocupações neolíticas) mas apresenta preservação orgânica (restos botânicos, sobretudo sobreiro; faunísticos, dominados pelos cervídeos; e uma inumação de não-adulto e outros remanescentes esqueléticos), diversas categorias artefactuais (indústria cerâmica, óssea e lítica) e estruturas antrópicas (fogueira). Estes dados sugerem ocupações recorrentes no período de 3900- 3100 cal BC, o que está de acordo com a cultura material (domínio da cerâmica lisa). Assim, este sítio de ar livre testemunha uma faceta ainda mal documentada do Neolítico Médio: os contextos habitacionais.
Vilniaus graffiti nuo vėlyvojo sovietmečio iki 2022 metų: raidos etapai ir socialinis piešėjų bendruomenės profilis
Authors: Urbonaitė-Barkauskienė Veronika
Published: December 2023

Siekiant plėsti žinių apie mažiau ištyrinėtas periferines graffiti bendruomenes apimtį ir gylį, straipsnyje pristatomas išsamus Vilniaus graffiti atvejo nuo vėlyvojo sovietmečio iki 2022 m. tyrimas. Straipsnyje atsižvelgiama į Vilniaus graffiti istorinės raidos ir socialinės struktūros aspektus, taip pat į graffiti kaip nelegalios vizualinės raiškos formos, turinio bei santykio su miesto erdve aspektus Vilniuje, jų chronologinę raidą nuo vėlyvojo sovietmečio iki 2022 metų. Remiantis plačia mokslinės literatūros apie graffiti bendruomenes apžvalga ir 2007–2022 m. vykdytu kokybiniu tyrimu, paremtu pusiau struktūruotų giluminių interviu bei kitų šaltinių analize, išskiriami keturi chronologiniai Vilniaus graffiti subkultūros raidos laikotarpiai. Jie yra: ankstyvasis (iki 1990 m.), inkubacinis (1990–2000 m.), aukso amžiaus (2000–2010 m.) ir atoslūgio (po 2010 m.) etapai. Tyrimas taip pat parodė, kad socialinei Vilniaus graffiti piešėjų bendruomenės struktūrai būdingas didelis socialinis ir etninis heterogeniškumas ir gana didelis homogeniškumas lyties atžvilgiu (dominuoja vyrai). Iš paauglių ir jaunimo subkultūrinės grupės graffiti ilgainiui tampa vis įvairesnė pagal amžiaus grupes. Stebima bendruomenės senėjimo tendencija.
Post-hatching testosterone concentration reflects nestling survival and pre-fledging offspring condition in the Tawny Owl Strix aluco
Authors: Sasvári L. , Nishiumi I. , Péczely P. , Hegyi Z.
Published: December 2023

We examined parental condition, brood sex composition, hatching order and post-hatch-ing testosterone concentration in relation to nestling survival and pre-fledging offspring condition on Tawny Owls Strix aluco in Duna-Ipoly National Park, Hungary in 1996– 2007. In smaller broods, where parents of poor condition suffered nestling mortality, hatchlings showed a male-biased sex ratio, and between-sibling differences in testoster-one concentrations were high in the early nestling period. In broods where all nestlings were raised and parents were in good condition, hatchlings showed a female-biased sex ratio and between-sibling differences in testosterone concentrations were low. First-and second-hatched nestlings, with high post-hatching testosterone concentrations, survived after one or two siblings died and had better body condition before fledging than nestlings which fledged from the broods, where all were chicks raised.
Temporal covariation of egg volume and breeding conditions in the Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) in the Mediterranean region
Authors: Costantini D. , Carello L. , Dell'Omo G.
Published: December 2023

Most studies on variation in egg size in the Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) have been carried out in central and northern Europe, whereas less is known about populations in the Mediterranean basin. We investigated the variation in egg volume in a Mediterranean population of Common Kestrel over a six-year period in relation to clutch size, breeding time, hatching success, and weather conditions. Eggs were generally bigger in larger clutches, and egg volume tended to decrease over the breeding season, but these patterns were not consistent among breeding seasons. Egg volume did not significantly vary in relation to weather conditions and did not predict hatching or fledging success. This study showed that (a) the patterns of covariation among laying date, clutch size and egg volume varied inconsistently over multiple years, and (b) egg volume poorly predicted the probabilities of hatching and fledging in the studied population.
Varying chick mortality in an organochlorine-“strained” population of the nominate Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus f. fuscus in the Baltic Sea
Authors: Hario M. , Nuutinen J. M. J.
Published: December 2023

Severe reproductive failure has contributed to a drastic population decline of the nominate Lesser Black-backed Gull (Larus fuscus fuscus) in its breeding grounds in the Gulf of Finland and the Bay of Bothnia. In intensive field studies in the central area of the Gulf of Finland, roughly 65-70% of chicks died in their nest in the 1980s and 1990s due to innate diseases. In the 1990s, the fledging rate was only 0.02. The diseases consisted mainly of liver degeneration and various inflammations, and most chicks died of sepsis. The hepatic concentrations of legacy organochlorines (OC) in dead chicks were high, and they correlated with the proportion of dead chicks in a brood. During the 2000s, however, the occurrence of diseased chicks in the Gulf of Finland decreased to 48%, which helped to achieve a fledging rate supposedly sustaining the population (0.52). At the same time, the trends in hepatic levels of certain legacy OCs in chicks decreased, especially the DDE, HCB, β-HCH, and iraws-nonachlor levels. In spite of skewed sampling (only dead chicks were available), our results indicate an enhancing health status among the present population, probably due to a less contaminated diet during the non-breeding period.
Raptors calling – The sounds of raptors and falcons by Dingler, Fackelmann & Schultze (2010)
Authors: Koivula M.
Published: December 2023

Dingler, K.-H., Fackelmann, C. & Schultze, A. 2010: The sounds of raptors and falcons. — Musikverlag Edition Ample (www.ample.de). 2 Audio-CDs + a booklet.
Migrating Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers Dendrocopos minor along the coast of southern Norweay: where do they come from?
Authors: Gohli J. , Røer J. E. , Selås V. , Stenberg I. , Lislevand T.
Published: December 2023

The Lesser SpottedWoodpecker (Dendrocopos minor) is a partialmigrant in Fennoscandia, where migratory autumn irruptions outside the regular breeding areas occur in some years. Little is known about themigration of this species along the coast of southern Norway, but such migrants might have an eastern origin. We evaluated this hypothesis, and the possibility that birds come from a more local population, by correlating the numbers ringed at Lista Bird Observatory with breeding-population indices from three regions: Sweden,Møre og Romsdal and Agder. Overall, 99 birds were trapped and ringed at Lista in autumn during 1989–2008 (median = 3.5, range 0–19). We found no correlation between numbers caught at Lista and the population indices fromMøre og Romsdal. There was, however, a significant positive correlation between Lista numbers and the population index from the local Agder region. Breeding-population indices from Sweden were acquired from (1) long-term (1975–2009) summer point counts in observer-chosen routes, and (2) a combination of point counts and line transects along fixed routes systematically distributed across the country (1998–2008). Population trends differed somewhat between these two methods, the latter indicating an increasing population size whereas the former showed a more stable situation. The fixed-routes data were positively correlated with Lista catch numbers, whereas the indices from summer point counts were not. These results suggest that migrating Lesser SpottedWoodpeckers captured in autumn at Lista Bird Observatorymay come from an extensive area in Scandinavia, including more local regions. There was no sex bias in the captured birds, but 98% were in their first year. Hence, migration intensity probably reflects reproductive output in source populations.
Breeding ecology of the Twite Carduelis flavirostris in northern Tibet
Authors: Lu X. , Guo Y. , Liang J. , Markowski X. , Zhang L.
Published: December 2023

The breeding ecology of the Twite was studied during 2004-2007 in a meadow environment at 4,300 m elevation, in northern Tibet. Twite laid eggs between late May and mid-August in response to ripeness of seed food. Nests were located in firewood stacks, trees and marshes, with average inter-nest distances less than 15 m. Pairs formed monogamously and males used both proximity and frequent copulations to guard their paternity. Clutch size averaged 4.2 (± 0.7 SD; 3-7), seasonally increasing or remaining unchanged according to year. Incubation by the female only lasted 12.2 days (± 1.2 SD; 10-15) and provisioning of chicks in the nest was continued by both parents for 14.7 days (±1.1 SD; 7 13-17). Males performed courtship feeding when their mates were engaged in egg-laying, incubating and brooding. Breeding success, measured as the percentage of nesting attempts from which at least one nestling fledged, was 64%. Compared to their lowland counterparts, Tibetan Twite produced smaller clutches and larger eggs, suggesting a life history strategy to cope with the harsh high-elevation environment.
Contemporary mature forest cover does not explain the persistence of Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) lekking areas in Finland
Authors: Sirkiä S. , Nikula A. , Helle P. , Lindén H. , Norrdahl K. , Suorsa P. , Valkeajärvi P.
Published: December 2023

Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) has traditionally been considered an old forest-dependent species. The lekking sites especially,were thought to be located in older forests. We studied the persistence of Capercaillie lekking areas in relation tomature forest cover at three study areas in Finland (southwestern, SW; central, CE; and northern, NO). Atotal of 381 leks were inspected twice at intervals of 10-30 years and were classified as either persisting or vacated. We defined mature forest as forest with > 152 m 3ha -1 of timber (SW and CE Finland) or > 68 m 3ha -1 of timber (NO Finland). We measured mature-forest cover within two radii around the leks (1,000 and 3,000m) using satellite image-based forest inventories, and performed logistic regression analyses on these data. We did not find significant trends between mature-forest cover and lekking-area persistence in any of the study areas. However, the proportion of mature forestsmay have already been too low to detect the significance of this factor. The only significant factor affecting the lekking-site persistence was time lag between surveys. The positive relationship between the time lag and lekking-site persistence in CE and NO Finland may be due to the partial recovery of the landscapes in terms of forest regrowth, from extensive clear-cut harvesting in the 1950s and 1960s. In SWFinland, the relationship was negative, possibly indicatingmore permanent changes in the landscape that is currently characterized by human settlements and agricultural areas. We conclude that in present-day Finland, the area covered by mature forest ismost likely too scarce to explain the lekking-area persistence ofCapercaillie. An alternative explanation is that some important structural characteristics are missing from the current mature forests.
Variation in productivity and territory occupancy in an Eagle Owl Bubo bubo population
Authors: Brambilla Mattia , Radames Radames
Published: December 2023

Source-sink dynamics refer to systems with some units as sources of juveniles, and others as sinks. The same pattern can theoretically occur at a small spatial scale, within single populations. Under these circumstances, varying quality of breeding habitats/territories determines different levels of survival and/or reproduction, which in turn result in varying contributions of territories to the population dynamics. Territory occupancy has been proposed as an indirect measure of habitat quality. Here, we used territory occupancy and productivity from a long-termmonitoring of an Eagle Owl Bubo bubo population in NW Italy to (i) show how different contributions to population dynamicsmay characterize territories over limited geographical scale in a strongly territorial species, and (ii) investigate the potential use of territory occupancy as a proxy for habitat quality in this species. Three out of 10 territories appeared to producemost fledglings (potential sources), whereas the others were characterized by extremely low productivity (possible sinks). The overall productivity is likely to nearly balancemortality, but the general equilibriummasks complex variation in the contributions of territories to the population dynamic. Territory occupancywas affected by average productivity, and thus long-term occupancy could be used as a proxy for habitat quality. In long-lived and scarce territorial species, such as the Eagle Owl, preservation of suitable conditions at key territories can be crucial for the population survival.
Impact of a noise-polluted urban environment on the song frequencies of a cosmopolitan songbird, the Great Tit (Parus major), in Denmark
Authors: Huffeldt Nicholas Per , Dabelsteen Torben
Published: December 2023

Low-frequency ambient noise is known to cause shifts in the song frequency of different species of songbirds, such as the Great Tit (Parus major). The present study was conducted to test the generality of these findings by measuring the distribution of energy across the spectrum of songs of theGreat Tit. The studied individuals were either exposed to low-frequency ambient traffic noise in an urban environment (Copenhagen, Denmark) or not exposed to such an environment (the Strodam Reserve north of Copenhagen). A trend throughout all frequency-energy quartiles illustrated that the species sang at an elevated frequency in urban environments compared to rural ones, and that both the upperand lower-frequency-energy quartiles were signifcantly higher in the former.
Age structure of Capercaillie males (Tetrao urogallus) in NW Russia may reflect two-way movements – a hypothesis
Authors: Borchtchevski Vladimir , Moss Robert
Published: December 2023

Skulls of Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) males collected in NW Russia in 1980-2008 showed two different types of age structure. In native forest and bog-forest tracts with high Capercaillie density (-2.0 birds/km2 in spring) there were relatively more 2- and 3-year-old males and correspondingly fewer yearlings and youngsters. The converse applied over the vast adjacent logged areas where Capercaillie density was lower (~ 0.6 birds/km2), with fewer 2- and 3-year-old males and more yearlings and youngsters. The results were consistent with emigration of youngsters from native into logged areas and a reverse movement of maturing cocks attempting to join the big leks on native areas. The v evidence suggested that survival of cocks over 3 years old was low in both habitat types, perhaps due to continued emigration from logged areas plus mortality associated with competition for status at the big leks on native areas. Such movements presumably occur mostly at times of high population density.
Human disturbance of breeding Wood Sandpipers Tringa glareola: implications for "alert distances" in prescribing protective buffer zones
Authors: Whitfield D. , Rae Rab
Published: December 2023

Separation of animals and humans using a protective set-back distance (Minimum Ap-proaching Distance) is a popular tool for conservation managers to promote wildlife-hu-man coexistence. In several cases, Minimum Approaching Distance is based on how ani-mals respond to an approaching human, using Flight Initiation Distance or Alert Distance. Alert Distance, when animals first show increased vigilance to an approaching human, is considered the best basis for Minimum Approaching Distance because animals have time to adapt their response. Alert Distance is frequently difficult or impossible to measure in practice, however, especially in breeding birds. Using a study of breeding Wood Sandpip-ers Tringa glareola, in which Alert Distance could not be measured directly, we tested three possible solutions to this dilemma. Alarm Call Distance did not appear to provide a useful substitute for Alert Distance because sandpipers probably alarm called after they had first detected a human. Published predictions of Alert Distance using body mass also failed to provide realistic estimates of disturbance distances in Wood Sandpipers. The "fixed-slope rule", which predicts that Alert Distance is about double Flight Initiation Distance, was not supported by relationships between Alarm Call Distance and Flight Ini-tiation Distance, but was supported by a relationship between an estimated Alert Distance surrogate and Flight Initiation Distance. This suggests that this rule may have general util-ity in predicting Alert Distance when only the more readily measured Flight Initiation Distance metric is known. A Minimum Approaching Distance (protective buffer zone) of 160 m is recommended for breeding Wood Sandpipers.