bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Balancing food security and environmental safety: rethinking modern agricultural practices
Authors: Majumder Rajib
Published: January 2024

Agriculture has played an important role in human life, both for sustaining life and livelihood. The population explosion has necessitated huge agricultural production. Consequently, there has been modernisation of agriculture not only in farming practices, but also in introducing improved agricultural implements, irrigation, chemical fertilisers, synthetic pesticides, and high-yielding seeds. Agricultural intensification and monoculture make it possible to increase crop production, to a large extent gaining food security, but paying no or little attention to environmental well-being. Intensive tillage leads to soil erosion, nutrient loss, and soil organic carbon loss, which affects the soil biota. Extraction of underground water for irrigation causes groundwater levels to drop and hinders aquifer recharge. Monoculture and the cultivation of high-yielding crops lead to the loss of many indigenous crop varieties and the prevalence of pests and pathogens. Extensive chemical fertiliser application can cause soil acidification, eutrophication, and nitrate contamination in groundwater through leaching. Indiscriminate use of pesticides is a potential threat for non-target organisms, including humans. The agriculture sector contributes a considerable portion of greenhouse gases to the atmosphere. Therefore, the only way to protect our mother earth and create a healthy environment is through sustainable agriculture to ensure food safety and security.
Introduction: Southeast Asia and Taiwan’s New Southbound Policy (NSP)
Authors: Leong LEE Karl Chee , Shahadah Nur
Published: January 2024

Welcomed to the December 2023 Issue of International Journal of China Studies (IJCS) in 2023. Unlike the previous June 2023 Issue, this is the first Special Issue published under the watch of the new Editorial Board of IJCS. As part of IJCS’ agenda to feature current and pressing issues revolving around the Greater China region, we are encouraged by the great interests surrounding Taiwan and its international roles to run a Special Issue pertaining to the island nation’s relations with Southeast Asia. Given such unprecedented development, this Special Issue is deliberated with the two following objectives.
Reporting Public Diplomacy at Home: Taiwanese Media News Coverage of the New Southbound Policy
Authors: EFFENDI Tonny Dian , BLENKITNI Ariel
Published: January 2024

Public diplomacy is about attracting foreign public attention; however, domestic public support is no less critical. The domestic public's support and understanding are equally essential to diplomatic activities abroad, and it depends on the information they receive about the policy. When the Taiwanese government claims that NSP (New Southbound Policy) received positive support from the public, how do they make those claims? What kind of information about the NSP is received by the Taiwanese public? This study analyzes the NSP-related news in Taiwanese media to answer this question. It focuses on Liberty Times Network (LTN) and United Daily News (UDN) coverage of the NSP since 2016. The text and sentiment analysis of their reports show that although they have different political orientations, overall, both LTN and UDN are generally positive in their reporting on NSP, although UDN is more critical. These results indicate that media polarization occurred in the report, sentiment analysis shows that the difference was insignificant. This situation may indicate that in the case of the NSP case, media polarization in Taiwan is not in effect for shaping public opinion. Keywords: news, media, public, diplomacy, nsp.
An Algorithm for the Longest Common Subsequence and Substring Problem
Authors: Rao Li  , Deka Jyotishmoy , Deka Kaushik
Published: January 2024

In this note, we first introduce a new problem called the longest common subsequence and substring problem. Let X and Y be two strings over an alphabet ∑. The longest common subsequence and substring problem for X and Y is to find the longest string, which is a subsequence of X and a substring of Y. We propose an algorithm to solve the problem.
Improvising Object Guitar
Authors: Hugo Ariëns
Published: January 2024

This thesis traces the transformation of a prepared electric guitar practice into a practice where improvisation is infused in all of its facets. Through this research, I have developed a personal approach to the prepared tabletop electric guitar that I call "Object Guitar". I leave the historical frame of the prepared guitar as a reflection of the prepared piano and take an interpretation of the 1912 "Guitar" sculpture by Pablo Picasso as a starting point. Through Picasso’s use of improvised techniques and heterogeneous materials, we can see the prepared electric guitar practice as possessing a similar process of "bricolage" and the agency and recalcitrance of the objects used to prepare the guitar. This makes the prepared tabletop electric guitar fundamentally impossible to master. Mastery gets substituted with the process of "assemblage"—the arranging of disparate found materials.

With this approach, I developed a series of experimental instruments and devices. Experimental instruments explore novel possibilities in instrument design but also provide a platform for experimentation. These instruments magnify the improvisational characteristics of the existing electric guitar. The 18-string Object Guitar is a gradual development of the electric guitar into a dedicated tabletop instrument. A series of Deconstruction Guitars break down the electric guitar into fundamental elements to understand their function in the prepared guitar system. All the instruments and devices form an open-ended series of constructions; each playing situation has a different configuration of these instrument and device modules.

Along with the instruments, I created a new practice method for the prepared tabletop electric guitar in improvised music. As mastery falls away as a criterion for the prepared guitar practice, the focus shifts to an exploration of the instrument. Practicing becomes a progression of questions and curiosity, with each question leading to new questions. The Object Guitar Archive gives structure and context to this method. The exploratory practice method spans the whole range of prepared guitar practice activities. Each step of the process is supported by the Object Guitar Archive.
Purchase Decision on Halal Products among Female Muslim: Evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Sujono Rusny Istiqomah , Wiyandi Wawan , Wibowo Febrian Wahyu , Yunadi Ahmad , Kamal Al Haq , Wibowo Ardy , Salam Abdul
Published: January 2024

So far, limited research has analyzed the factors influencing female's decisions to purchase halal products. The purpose of this study was to determine how religiosity, product quality, price, brand, and halal knowledge affect the decision-making process of Islamic female students when purchasing halal-certified products. The study employed quantitative research methods, employing a questionnaire distributed through Google Forms for data collection. The study's population comprised all female students at Pondok Pesantren Al Munawwir Yogyakarta Indonesia. The sampling technique employed the Slovin formula, resulting in a research sample of 91 respondents. Data analysis involved classical assumption tests, multiple linear regression, partial tests (t-tests), simultaneous tests (F-tests), and the determination coefficient (R²). The findings indicated that religiosity, price, and halal knowledge negatively influenced female's purchasing decisions for halal products. Conversely, product quality and brand positively influenced these decisions. The study highlights that consumers, especially female students, prioritize brands and product quality when deciding to purchase halal products. Consequently, producers of halal products need to prioritize and enhance product quality.
The Impact of Innovation and Government Intervention on the Performance of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises
Authors: Miar Miar
Published: January 2024

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) experienced a decline in performance due to low product demand. Therefore, various efforts need to be undertaken to enhance MSMEs' performance in Indonesia. Addressing this issue, this research aims to examine the influence of innovation and government intervention in improving the performance of SMEs in Indonesia. The study employs a quantitative approach with a population of MSME actors in Central Kalimantan, a province of Indonesia. Through proportional random sampling, 356 SME operators were identified as respondents for this study. Data were collected using a survey method and analyzed using simple and multiple linear regression. The results indicate that innovation and government intervention have a positive and significant impact on improving MSMEs' performance both partially and simultaneously. Therefore, this research implies that the more MSMEs engage in innovation and with government involvement in efforts to support MSME development, the greater the opportunity to enhance MSME performance in Indonesia.
Advancing Ocean Forecasting in the Russian Arctic: A Performance Analysis of MariNet Model in Comparision to FourCastNet and PhyDNet
Authors: Buinyi Aleksei V , Irishev Dias A , Nikulin Edvard E , Evdokimov Aleksandr A , Ilyushina Polina G , Sukhikh Natalia A
Published: January 2024

Marine forecasts are essential for safe navigation, efficient offshore
operations, coastal management, and research, especially in areas with a
such harsh conditions as the Arctic Ocean. They require accurate
predictions of ocean currents, wind-driven waves, and other oceanic
parameters. However, physics-based numerical models, while precise, are
computationally demanding. Consequently, data-driven methods, which are
less resource-intensive, may offer a more efficient solution for sea
state forecasting. This paper presents an analysis and comparison of
three data-driven models: our newly developed convLSTM-based MariNet,
FourCastNet and the PhydNet, a physics-informed model for video
prediction. Using metrics such as RMSE, Bias and Correlation, we
demonstrate the areas where our model surpasses the performance of the
prominent prediction models. Our model achieves improved accuracy in
forecasting ocean dynamics compared to FourCastNet and PhyDNet. We also
find that our model requires significantly less training data, computing
power, and consequently provides less carbon emmisions. The results
suggest that data-driven models should be further explored as a
complement to physics-based models for operational marine forecasting.
They have the potential to enhance prediction accuracy and efficiency,
enabling more responsive and cost-effective forecasting systems.
VIRTUAL MEMORY VERIFICATION -SV32
Authors: Ali Wajid , Kamal Uneeb , Azhar Abdullah , Zia Masooma
Published: January 2024

Virtual memory compliance refers to the extent to which the behaviour of the virtual memory subsystem adheres to the specifications outlined in the RISC-V architecture. It ensures that the behavior of virtual memory operations, particularly the manipulation of permission bits within page table entries, aligns accurately with the documented expectations and standards of the RISC-V architecture. We developed customized RISC-V assembly tests that systematically modify permission bits within page table entries. These tests are compiled using GNU toolchain and executed using the RISC-V assembly code on both the Spike and Sail simulators through the RISCOF framework, facilitating cross-platform analysis. By comparing the resulting log files from the two simulators, we discern any inconsistencies or variations in memory access behaviors. The findings of this investigation provide insights into the fidelity of RISC-V architecture specifications with respect to virtual memory operations. We generally worked with two level page table in which first level is named as level 1 and second level is named as level 0. These outcomes are synthesized into a comprehensive HTML report, offering an in-depth exploration of permission bit effects on virtual memory within varying privilege modes. This research enhances comprehension of virtual memory functionality in the RISC-V architecture. This study contributes to a more robust understanding of virtual memory behavior and engenders confidence in the modeling and simulation of such systems.
Parameterizing mesoscale eddy buoyancy transport over sloping topography
Authors: Nummelin Aleksi , Isachsen Pål Erik
Published: January 2024

Most of the ocean’s kinetic energy is contained within the mesoscale
eddy field. Models that do not resolve these eddies tend to parameterize
their impacts such that the parameterized transport of buoyancy and
tracers reduces the large-scale available potential energy and spreads
tracers. However, the parameterizations used in the ocean components of
current generation Earth System Models (ESMs) rely on an assumption of a
flat ocean floor even though observations and high-resolution modelling
show that eddy transport is sensitive to the potential vorticity
gradients associated with a sloping seafloor. We show that buoyancy
transport coefficient diagnosed from idealized eddy-resolving
simulations is indeed reduced over both prograde and retrograde bottom
slopes (topographic wave propagation along or against the mean flow,
respectively) and that the reduction can be skilfully captured by a
mixing length parameterization by introducing the topographic Rhines
scale as a length scale. This modified ‘GM’ parameterization enhances
the strength of thermal wind currents over the slopes in
coarse-resolution, non-eddying, simulations. We find that in realistic
global coarse-resolution simulations the impact of topography is most
pronounced at high latitudes, enhancing the mean flow strength and
reducing temperature and salinity biases. Reducing the buoyancy
transport coefficient further with a mean-flow dependent eddy efficiency
factor, has notable effects also at lower latitudes and leads to
reduction of global mean biases.
The Influence of Stratospheric Hydration from the Hunga Eruption on Chemical Processing in the 2023 Antarctic Vortex
Authors: Santee Michelle L. , Manney Gloria L , Lambert Alyn , Millan Luis , Livesey Nathaniel J , Pitts Michael C. , Froidevaux Lucien , Read William G. , Fuller Ryan
Published: January 2024

The 2022 Hunga eruption led to extraordinary water vapor enhancement
throughout the stratospheric vortex at the beginning of the 2023
Antarctic winter. Although the dynamical characteristics of the vortex
itself were generally unexceptional, the excess moisture initially
raised the threshold temperatures for the formation of polar
stratospheric clouds (PSCs) above typical values over a broad vertical
domain. Low temperatures, especially during an early-July cold spell,
prompted ice PSC formation and unusually severe irreversible dehydration
at higher levels (500–700 K), while atypical rehydration occurred at
lower levels (380–460 K). Heterogeneous chemical processing was more
extensive, both vertically (up to 750–800 K) and temporally (earlier in
the season), than in prior Antarctic winters. The resultant HCl
depletion and ClO enhancement both redefined their previously observed
ranges at and above 600 K. Albeit unmatched in the satellite record, the
early-winter upper-level chlorine activation was insufficient to induce
substantial ozone loss. Chlorine activation, denitrification, and
dehydration processes saturated in midwinter, with trace gas evolution
essentially following the climatological mean thereafter. Chlorine
deactivation started slightly later than in most years. While cumulative
ozone losses at 410–550 K were relatively large, probably because of
the delayed chlorine deactivation, they were not unprecedented. Thus,
ozone depletion was unremarkable throughout the lower stratosphere.
Although Hunga hastened the onset of and increased the vertical extent
of PSC formation and chlorine activation in early winter, saturation of
lower stratospheric chemical processing (as is typical in the Antarctic)
prevented an exceptionally severe ozone hole in 2023.
Slovenska očekivanja i politički rascjepi od Prvoprosinačkoga akta do izbora za Konstituantu
Authors: Ivašković Igor
Published: January 2024

Rad analizira ciljeve i taktike slovenskih političkih grupacija od Prvoprosinačkoga akta 1918. do izbora za Konstituantu u studenom 1920. Iako su na vanjskopolitičkom planu ciljevi slovenskih stranaka bili slični, a na unutarnjem su planu sve političke snage pretendirale na sudjelovanje u vlasti, proučavani period obilježili su brojni unutarstranački rascjepi. U Slovenskoj narodnoj stranci vladala je podjela na kritičare velikosrpske politike i oportuniste koji su pokušavali pripremiti poslijeizbornu koaliciju sa srpskim radikalima (Narodna radikalna stranka). Stranka je zahvaljujući ambiciji očuvanja kako statusa najjače slovenske političke opcije tako i koalicijskoga potencijala za participaciju u vlasti, što je nudilo bolju perspektivu za postizanje vanjskopolitičkih ciljeva, ipak uspjela sačuvati organizacijsku cjelovitost. Istovremeno su se slovenski liberali, koji su za razliku od većine konzervativaca iskreno raširenih ruku dočekali Kraljevinu Srba, Hrvata i Slovenaca, fragmentirali na više stranaka. Tome je doprinijelo očekivanje da će se na slovenskim područjima, uslijed uključivanja u južnoslavensku državu, povećati manevarski prostor za jugoslavensko-unitarističke političke snage, stoga je dio liberala krenuo u osvajanje rubnih segmenata biračkoga tijela koje je prije pripadalo konzervativcima. Prosječni slovenski birač, međutim, nije bio sklon unitarizmu te je najbolji izborni rezultat ostvarila liberalna opcija koja je u predizborno vrijeme naglašavala slovensku autonomiju. Relativno dobar rezultat postiže socijaldemokratski pol, unutar kojega također dolazi do rascjepa. Dok su se reformisti u kritikama usmjeravali direktno na slovensku političku konkurenciju, komunisti se odcjepljuju i odlučuju za radikalniji nastup prema Srbiji. Slovensku narodnu stranku kritiziraju tek implicitno, štoviše preuzimaju i dio njezina predratnoga programa i time bez većega izravnog sukoba ulaze upravo u njezino biračko tijelo.
Vanjska politika Francuske za vrijeme djelovanja Eugena Kvaternika
Authors: Miloš Edi
Published: January 2024

Članak je posvećen vanjskoj politici Francuske za vrijeme Drugoga Carstva i njezinu utjecaju na djelovanje Eugena Kvaternika. Napoleon III. nastojao je promijeniti pravila igre Bečkoga kongresa, koja su predugo kočila međunarodnu afirmaciju njegove zemlje. Pozivajući se u tu svrhu – među ostalim – na nacionalno načelo, posegnuo je neoprezno za dvosjeklim mačem jer je time doprinio nastanku i osnaživanju njemačke sile pod vodstvom kancelara Bismarcka. Tijekom njegove vladavine Eugen Kvaternik u više je navrata boravio u Parizu, gdje je pokušavao potaknuti povezivanje hrvatskih težnji za osamostaljivanjem s rješavanjem talijanskoga, potom i poljskoga pitanja. Premda se susretao s carevim rođakom princem Napoleonom te privukao njegovu pozornost na mogućnost hrvatsko-francuske suradnje, njegovi su napori ostali bez većega učinka. Unatoč tomu, Kvaternik je uspio koliko-toliko iznijeti dotad slabo poznato hrvatsko pitanje pred francusku političku i intelektualnu elitu.
Generating layout for complex cave-like levels with schematic maps and Cellular Automata
Authors: Antoniuk Izabella
Published: January 2024

In this paper an algorithm for creating cave-like, user-guided layout is presented. In applications such as computer games, underground structures offer unique challenges and interesting space for player actions. Preparation of such areas can be time consuming and tiresome, especially during the design process, when many ideas are often scrapped. Presented approach aims at improving this process. Schematic input is used so the user can quickly define the general layout. Cave system is divided into levels and tiles - easily-parallelizable modules for the following method stages. Cellular automata are used to extend initial system sketch with interesting shapes while the diamond-square algorithm spreads the final terrain heights. Each stage uses the results of the previously performed operations as input, providing space for alterations. Input maps can be reused to obtain different variations of the same system. The final structure is represented as a 3D point cloud. Chosen representation supports multilevel systems and can be used either as a base for further algorithms, or as a final mesh. The presented approach can be easily incorporated into game design process, while visualizing initial layouts and speeding up preparation of unique, interesting and challenging game spaces for the players to traverse.
Stopień awersji do ryzyka a wyniki gospodarstwa rolnego
Authors: Sulewski Piotr
Published: January 2024

W pracy podjęto próbę określenia wpływu stopnia awersji do ryzyka na wyniki gospodarstwa rolnego mierzone w kategoriach użyteczności wartości oczekiwanej. Badania przeprowadzono z zastosowaniem podejścia opartego na średniej i wariancji. Z analiz wynika, iż stopień awersji do ryzyka znacząco modyfikuje użyteczność wartości oczekiwanej dochodu rolniczego. Przeprowadzone symulacje wykazały, iż zarówno zmiany w strukturze, jak i korzystanie z ubezpieczeń produkcyjnych mogą wpływać stabilizująco na wysokość dochodów, chociaż wartość oczekiwana może ulec zmniejszeniu.
Preferencje edukacyjne młodzieży w aspekcie demografii i przedsiębiorczości jako czynników rozwoju lokalnego (na przykładzie gminy Staroźreby)
Authors: Będzikowska Ludmiła
Published: January 2024

Przyczyną zróżnicowania obszarów wiejskich są różne bariery: demograficzne, osadnicze, stan infrastruktury technicznej. Najwięcej gmin problemowych występuje na wschodzie Polski, ale są również one obecne w jej centrum. Gmina Staroźreby jest gminą rolniczą, leżącą w pobliżu Płocka. Jej mieszkańcy są gorzej wykształceni niż średnia w kraju, postępuje proces wyludniania. Młodzież gimnazjalna wybiera najczęściej naukę w liceum (43%), jej większość zamierza studiować. W technikach i zasadniczych szkołach zawodowych chce się kształcić po 25% uczniów. Wybór szkoły podyktowany jest przede wszystkim chęcią szybkiego zdobycia zawodu.
Deregulacja rynku mleka w Unii Europejskiej - Skutki i zalecenia dla Polski
Authors: Guba Waldemar , Dąbrowski Jerzy
Published: January 2024

W pracy zaprezentowano motywy i kolejne etapy deregulacji wspólnotowej organizacji rynku mleka począwszy od reformy WPR z 2003 r. Przedstawiono dane dotyczące restrukturyzacji i pozycji na rynku UE polskiego sektora mleczarskiego w ostatnich latach. W celu oceny skutków dalszej deregulacji, polegającej przede wszystkim na wycofaniu systemu limitów produkcji (kwot), przywołano wyniki badań z użyciem modeli ekonometrycznych przeprowadzonych na zlecenie KE i MRiRW, a także najnowsze długookresowe prognozy sytuacji na tym rynku. Można oczekiwać, iż z uwagi na dotychczasowe postępy w restrukturyzacji i modernizacji oraz możliwości dalszej poprawy efektywności polski sektor mleczarski poradzi sobie z ewentualnymi kolejnymi etapami deregulacji. Niezbędne dostosowania strukturalne generowałyby jednak koszty społeczne i środowiskowe. Istotnym czynnikiem w procesie adaptacji do nowych warunków będzie wysokość i ukierunkowanie wsparcia tego sektora w ramach nowej WPR po 2013 r.
Zmiany w wynikach produkcyjnych i ekonomicznych gospodarstw mlecznych najsilniejszych ekonomicznie w latach 2004-2009 w krajach Unii Europejskiej
Authors: Grontkowska Anna
Published: January 2024

W opracowaniu przedstawiono zróżnicowanie zasobów i wyników produkcyjnych oraz ekonomicznych gospodarstw ukierunkowanych na produkcję mleka o sile ekonomicznej powyżej 100 ESU w krajach Unii Europejskiej. W latach 2004-2006 wydajność mleczna krów systematycznie wzrastała o 2,6-2,8% rocznie, w latach 2007-2008 ustabilizowała na poziomie 7450 kg od jednej krowy (przy zróżnicowaniu od 5 tys. w słowackich gospodarstwach do ponad 8,8 tys. w fińskich), a w 2009 roku zanotowano jej nieznaczne obniżenie. W latach 2004-2008 najsilniejsze ekonomicznie gospodarstwa mleczne wykazywały wzrost kosztów ogółem przypadający na jednostkę siły ekonomicznej, natomiast w 2009 roku nastąpił ich spadek o 8,2%. Niższy poziom kosztów odnotowały mleczne gospodarstwa krajów członkowskich starej UE-15. Poziom dopłat z różnych tytułów (bez inwestycyjnych) w przeliczeniu na jednostkę siły ekonomicznej w krajach członkowskich UE od 2004 roku wzrastał systematycznie (oprócz 2009 r.) i był kilkakrotnie wyższy od subsydiowania notowanego w krajach UE-15.
Ocena wpływu wybranych programów wspólnej polityki rolnej na rolnictwo w Polsce w latach 2004-2011
Authors: Czyżykowska Magdalena
Published: January 2024

W pracy skoncentrowano się na ocenie potencjalnego wpływu wybranych programów WPR na rolnictwo w Polsce w latach 2004-2011. Analizowano powszechność wdrożenia oraz realną wartość transferów pakietów rolnictwo zrównoważone (RZ) i ochrona gleb i wód (OGiW) programu rolnośrodowiskowego (PRŚ) oraz płatności bezpośrednich (JPO) i ONW. Płatności bezpośrednie, ze względu na duży zasięg oddziaływania (87% gospodarstw uprawnionych), dominujący poziom transferowanych kwot i wymaganą zasadę zgodności środowiskowej (cross-compliance) miały relatywnie największe potencjalne oddziaływanie środowiskowe. Ważne znaczenie miały również płatności ONW (70% gospodarstw z ogółu gospodarstw uprawnionych). Programy rolnośrodowiskowe ze względu na relatywnie małe upowszechnienie oraz niski poziom transferowanych kwot nie mogły mieć potencjalnie dużego wpływu na rolnictwo w Polsce. Należy przypuszczać, że małe zainteresowanie niektórymi programami było powodowane niską i relatywnie malejącą atrakcyjnością stawek płatności.
Egzogeniczne i endogeniczne uwarunkowania procesu modernizacji rolnictwa
Authors: Kusz Dariusz
Published: January 2024

Celem pracy jest wskazanie czynników egzogenicznych i endogenicznych warunkujących proces modernizacji rolnictwa. Spośród czynników egzogenicznych zwrócono uwagę na uwarunkowania: demograficzne, środowiskowe, społeczno-kulturowe, ekonomiczne, instytucjonalne oraz czynniki technologiczne i proces globalizacji. Z kolei w obrębie czynników endogenicznych opisano zasoby i relacje czynników produkcji, stosowane technologie, kapitał ludzki, poziom generowanego dochodu, stopień powiązania z otoczeniem oraz specyfikę gospodarstwa rodzinnego.
The role of agriculture and urban-rural connections in lagging rural areas of Hungary
Authors: Ritter Krisztian , Balazs Péter , Péli Laszlo
Published: January 2024

The long-term strategic objectives of the EU Rural Development Policy in the next (2014-2020) programming period are as follows: the competitiveness of agriculture, the sustainable management of natural resources and the balanced territorial development. In this strategy agriculture remains the key element as solution for lagging rural areas. Summing up our research the social functions of traditional agriculture based on local resources, the strengthening of viable farms, the increasing importance of diversification and the labor-intensive products with high added-value have to be emphasized in the new rural policy. Besides agriculture the improvement of urban-rural connections are essential for lagging rural areas as well, especially in terms of employment, availability of services and allocation of local rural products to urban markets.
Typ rolniczy a efektywność gospodarstw ekologicznych
Authors: Komorowska Dorota
Published: January 2024

Celem opracowania jest ocena wpływu specjalizacji gospodarstwa rolnego na efektywność gospodarowania zasobami produkcyjnymi gospodarstw ekologicznych wybranych typów rolniczych. Przedmiotem badania były gospodarstwa ekologiczne uczestniczące nie­przerwanie w Polskim FADN w latach 2007-2009 i sklasyfikowane według typów rolniczych. Najwyższy poziom produktywności i dochodowości zasobów ziemi w 2007 roku uzyskały gospodarstwa wielokierunkowe, natomiast w latach 2008-2009 gospodarstwa nastawione na chów bydła mlecznego. Ekonomiczna wydajność pracy i dochodowość pracy własnej kształ­towała się na wyższym poziomie w gospodarstwach nastawionych na produkcję zwierzęcą, ale były to gospodarstwa większe obszarowo. Natomiast produktywność zaangażowanego kapitału była relatywnie większa w gospodarstwach specjalizujących się w uprawach polowych, na ogół większa była także efektywność ekonomiczna zasobów kapitałowych w tych gospodarstwach.
Nakłady robocizny i substytucyjność pracy żywej pracą uprzedmiotowioną w gospodarstwach mlecznych o różnej skali produkcji
Authors: Wysokiński Marcin
Published: January 2024

W opracowaniu przedstawiono nakłady robocizny i substytucyjność pracy żywej pracą uprzedmiotowioną w gospodarstwach mlecznych o różnej skali produkcji. Do analiz użyto mierników zgodnych z metodologią FADN. Badania przeprowadzono w latach 2004-2009. Zaprezentowano kształtowanie się poszczególnych mierników w zależności od liczby krów utrzymywanych w gospodarstwie. Dla zobrazowania tych zależności policzono współczynniki korelacji i wykresy rozrzutu.
Dochodowość typowych gospodarstw mlecznych na świecie w latach 2006-2011
Authors: Kołoszycz Ewa
Published: January 2024

Badanie przeprowadzono w typowych gospodarstwach specjalizujących się w produkcji mleka w krajach wiodących pod względem ilości produkowanego mleka na świecie w latach 2006-2011. Z badań wynika, że konkurencyjność europejskich gospodarstw, mierzona poziomem kosztów ponoszonych na wyprodukowanie mleka, była niższa niż w pozostałych gospodarstwach z różnych regionów świata. Dochody osiągane z produkcji mleka we wszystkich gospodarstwach charakteryzowały się podobnymi tendencjami zmian, ale ich wysokość była wyraźnie zróżnicowana.
Koszty i dochodowość produkcji mleka w wybranych krajach europejskich
Authors: Wilczyński Artur
Published: January 2024

W opracowaniu określono koszty produkcji mleka w gospodarstwach mlecznych, które należą do sieci Europejskiego Stowarzyszenia Producentów Mleka, położonych na terenie Niemiec, Holandii, Polski i Wielkiej Brytanii. Badania dotyczyły lat 2006-2011. Wyniki badań wykazały, że w gospodarstwach niemieckich i holenderskich całkowite koszty produkcji mleka są zdecydowanie wyższe od tych ponoszonych przez producentów mleka w Polsce i Wielkiej Brytanii. We wszystkich badanych gospodarstwach produkcja mleka była opłacalną. Obliczono ją jako różnicę pomiędzy przychodami z produkcji mleka oraz kosztami gotówkowymi.
Ocena ekonomiczno-społecznych efektów tradycyjnego sposobu zarządzania spółdzielniami rolniczymi
Authors: Mierzwa Danuta
Published: January 2024

Artykuł przedstawia wpływ tradycyjnego sposobu zarządzania na ekonomiczno-społeczne efekty spółdzielni rolniczych po 23 latach przeobrażeń ustrojowych. Główny wniosek wypływający z badań to stwierdzenie, że nie da się odnosić sukcesów ekonomicznych na rynku globalnym, kurczowo trzymając się zasad spółdzielczych. Należałoby je modyfikować i przybliżać do wzorców krajów wysoko rozwiniętych.
Endogeniczne uwarunkowania działalności inwestycyjnej gospodarstw rolniczych w Unii Europejskiej
Authors: Kusz Dariusz , Gędek Stanisław , Ruda Maria
Published: January 2024

Celem pracy jest identyfikacja czynników o charakterze endogenicznym warunkujących poziom inwestycji w gospodarstwach rolniczych Unii Europejskiej o wielkości ekonomicznej od 16 ESU. Analiza czynników endogenicznych warunkujących aktywność inwestycyjną takich gospodarstw wskazała, że dochód z rodzinnego gospodarstwa rolnego pozytywnie wpływał na aktywność inwestycyjną rolników. Wskazuje to na duże znaczenie poziomu generowanego dochodu rolniczego w procesie unowocześniania warsztatu produkcyjnego w gospodarstwach rolniczych.
Struktura własnościowa środków mechanizacji rolnictwa w Polsce w latach 1990-2010
Authors: Pawlak Jan
Published: January 2024

W latach 1996-2010 w gospodarstwach indywidualnych liczba agregatów uprawowych zwiększyła się o 849,3%, opryskiwaczy polowych o 35,3%, opryskiwaczy sadowniczych o 47,4%, silosokombajnów (bez samojezdnych) o 30,5%, dojarek z rurociągiem mlecznym o 381,3%, zbiornikowych schładzarek mleka o 291,7%. Zmniejszyła się natomiast liczba silosokombajnów samojezdnych o 4,5%, dojarek bańkowych o 41,1%, schładzarek do mleka w bańkach o 75,8%. W latach 1987-2010 odnotowano w gospodarstwach indywidualnych zwiększenie liczby: rozsiewaczy nawozów mineralnych i wapna o 64,6%, rozrzutników obornika o 55,1% sadzarek do ziemniaków o 181,2%, kosiarek ciągnikowych o 91,2%, pras zbierających o 527,7%, przyczep zbierających o 132,4%, kombajnów zbożowych o 390,4%, kombajnów buraczanych o 175,8%, kombajnów ziemniaczanych o 183,6%, kopaczek do ziemniaków o 54,7%, przyczep o 608% oraz ładowarek chwytakowych o 207,2%. W latach 1988-2010 w pozostałych gospodarstwach liczba rozsiewaczy nawozów mineralnych i wapna zmniejszyła się o 88,3%, rozrzutników obornika o 92,8%, kosiarek ciągnikowych o 89,2%, pras zbierających o 91,2, przyczep zbierających o 95%, kombajnów zbożowych o 91,2%, kombajnów buraczanych o 93,6%, kombajnów ziemniaczanych o 96,3%, przyczep o 90,0%, a ładowaczy chwytakowych o 95,3%. Liczba ciągników w gospodarstwach indywidualnych była w 2010 r. o 42,0% większa, a w pozostałych gospodarstwach o 86,2% mniejsza niż w 1990 r. W latach 1990-2010 udział sektora prywatnego rolnictwa w łącznej wartości netto środków mechanizacji rolnictwa zwiększył się z 81,7 do 93,0%, a udział sektora publicznego – zmniejszył się z 18,3 do 7,0%. W tym samym czasie nastąpiło zwiększenie stopnia zużycia środków mechanizacji rolnictwa – w sektorze prywatnym z 57,7% do 87,7%, a w sektorze publicznym – z 66,8% do 73,6%. W 2010 r. efektywność środków mechanizacji rolnictwa była w sektorze prywatnym o 214%, a w sektorze publicznym o 509% wyższa niż w 1995 r.
INVESTMENT DECISION SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR HIGH QUALITY CONTROL POSTS IN EUROPEAN UNION
Authors: Baltussen Willy , Gębska Monika , Hennen Wil
Published: January 2024

In 2010 an EU subsidy program started to create high quality control posts in Europe. Control posts are companies offering facilities for animals to rest and eat during long distance transport. They also offer facilities for trucks, drivers and competent authorities. A decision support program has been developed to support owners of control posts with their investment plan. The aim of this computer program is to calculate what increase in truckloads or in price per truckload is needed to justify the investment plans. The program was tested at two control posts participating in the EU project in Poland2. Both owners appreciated the added value of the program and suggested some improvements.
THE FUNCTION OF SMALL FARMS IN SUPPORTING BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURAL ECOSYSTEMS
Authors: Dostatny Denise
Published: January 2024

Biodiversity is formed, among other things, by the extensive use of arable land and therefore Poland has one of the most species abundant agricultural landscapes in Europe. Small ecological farms, especially in southern and south-eastern Poland, still host rare plant species named in the red lists of many European states. The diversity of animal and plant species in these areas is significantly higher than in the remaining parts of Poland. Consequently, the balance of agroecosystems is far more stable. The presence of rare plant species in the fields does not mean lower yields but contributes to maintaining the considerable diversity of insects and birds. Preserving the mosaic structure of crop fields and the traditional rural landscape is only possible on small farms and hence the importance of their continued existence.
DEVELOPMENT OF PRODUCTIVITY OF PIG FARMS IN GERMANY
Authors: Kleinhanss Werner
Published: January 2024

The development and change of productivity, as well as of its influencing factors, is of interest in economic research. In this paper we analyse the development of productivity in pig farms in Germany. Balanced farm panels are selected from the German Farm Accounting Data Network (FADN). As a productivity measure we use the Färe-Primont Index proposed by O’Donnell. Results shows a rather constant productivity level of pig fattening farms and decreasing productivity of farms specialized in piglet production. Due to cyclical pig prices the variation of productivity is rather high in pig farms. Significant scale effects are identified with highest TFP levels of large sized farms. The variation of income over time is much more pronounced than of productivity, which might partially be determined by the rather high aggregation of output and input variables used for the productivity calculations.
THE AGRICULTURAL COMPANIES AND THEIR VALUE SPREAD WITHIN THE VISEGRAD GROUP
Authors: Ruzickova Kamila
Published: January 2024

This paper provides unique comparisons of agricultural companies from the Visegrad Group countries using the value spread indicator. Companies in these countries have similar geographical conditions and they experienced relatively similar historical development. Nevertheless, the agricultural sector in each of these countries is different to some extent. The value spread indicator provides information about whether the costs of a company’s equity are covered by the returns on that equity. Moreover, this indicator serves as a verifier of the income valuation framework. The aim of this paper is to explore the value spread of agricultural companies in the countries of the Visegrad group both from country and primary activity perspectives. This paper finds that only a part of the companies sampled is able to create the income value and cover its costs from the returns on equity. Based on empirical tests, it was shown that there is a slightly positive dependence between the value spread and the country of origin of the agricultural company and between the value spread and the primary agricultural activity. Poland is the country with the majority of companies with a positive value spread and the most successful parts of agriculture are support and non-traditional activities.
Emotional distress predicts reduced type 2 diabetes treatment adherence in the Glycemia Reduction Approaches in Diabetes: A Comparative Effectiveness (GRADE) Study
Authors: Hoogendoorn Claire J. , Krause-Steinrauf Heidi , Uschner Diane , Wen Hui , A Presley Caroline , A Legowski Elizabeth , Naik Aanand D. , Hill Golden Sherita , L Arends Valerie , Brown-Friday Janet , A Krakoff Jonathan , E Suratt Colleen , H Waltje Andrea , L Cherrington Andrea , Gonzalez Jeffrey S.
Published: January 2024

We examined longitudinal associations between emotional distress (specifically, depressive symptoms and diabetes distress) and medication adherence in the GRADE study, a large randomized controlled trial comparing four glucose-lowering medications added to metformin in adults with relatively recent-onset type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Research Design and Methods: The Emotional Distress Substudy assessed medication adherence, depressive symptoms, and diabetes distress in 1,739 GRADE participants via self-completed questionnaires administered biannually up to 3 years. We examined baseline depressive symptoms and diabetes distress as predictors of medication adherence over 36 months. Bidirectional visit-to-visit relationships were also examined. Treatment satisfaction, beliefs about medication, self-efficacy, and perceived control were evaluated as mediators of longitudinal associations. Results: At baseline, participants (56% White, 17% Hispanic/Latino, 18% Black, 66% male) had a mean (SD) age of 58.0±10.2 years, diabetes duration of 4.2±2.8 years, HbA1c of 7.5±0.5%, and medication adherence of 89.9%±11.1%. Higher baseline depressive symptoms and diabetes distress were independently associated with lower adherence over 36 months (p<0.001). Higher depressive symptoms and diabetes distress at one visit predicted lower adherence at the subsequent 6-month visit (p<0.0001), but not vice versa. Treatment assignment did not moderate relationships. Patient-reported concerns about diabetes medications mediated the largest percentage (11.9-15.5%) of the longitudinal link between emotional distress and adherence. Conclusions: Depressive symptoms and diabetes distress both predict lower adherence to glucose-lowering medications over time among adults with T2DM. Addressing emotional distress and concerns about anticipated negative effects of taking these treatments may be important to support diabetes treatment adherence.
Individualized goals expressed by patients undergoing stroke rehabilitation: an observational study
Authors: Evensen Janne , Soberg Helene Lundgaard , Sveen Unni , Hestad Knut A. , Moore Jennifer L. , Bronken Berit Arnesveen
Published: January 2024

Objectives: To explore the rehabilitation goals measured with the Patient-Specific Functional Scale (PSFS) in patients undergoing acute and subacute stroke rehabilitation. In addition, to assess whether PSFS goals corresponded to impairments and activity limitations, as identified by standardized measures.
Design: Observational study.
Participants: A total of 71 participants undergoing inpatient stroke rehabilitation.
Methods: The PSFS goals were linked to second-level categories in the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), using established linking rules. Frequencies of the linked ICF categories were calculated. Frequencies of participants with limitations in walking, activities of daily living (ADL), vision, language, and cognition, were calculated, along with goals in corresponding areas of functioning.
Results: The participants’ goals were linked to 50 second-level ICF categories, comprising areas such as walking and moving, ADL, language, vision, and cognition. The most frequent ICF categories were “Moving around in different locations” (n = 24), “Walking” (n = 23), “Toileting” (n = 16), “Hand and arm use (n = 12) and “Fine hand use (n = 12)”. Of participants with limitations in walking, cognition, and vision, 85%, 10%, and 16%, respectively, had goals in these areas.
Conclusion: Participants’ goals included walking, ADL, language, vision, and cognition. Few with impairments in cognition or vision had goals in these corresponding areas on the PSFS.
Diagnostic pathways and treatment strategies in upper tract urothelial carcinoma in Sweden between 2015 and 2021: a population-based survey
Authors: Liedberg Fredrik , Hagberg Oskar , Aljabery Firas , Gårdmark Truls , Jahnson Staffan , Jerlström Tomas , Ströck Viveka , Söderkvist Karin , Ullén Anders , Bobjer Johannes
Published: January 2024

Objective: To report national data on diagnostics and treatment of upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) from the Swedish National Registry of Urinary Bladder Cancer (SNRUBC).
Patients and methods: Data from 2015 to 2021 were retrieved, and descriptive analyses were performed regarding incidence, diagnostic modalities, preoperative tumor staging, quality indicators for treatment including the use of standardized care pathways (SCP) and multidisciplinary tumor boards (MDTB). Time trends were explored for the study period.
Results: Registrations included 1,213 patients with renal pelvic cancer and 911 patients with ureteric cancer with a median age of 74 (interquartile range [IQR] 70–77) and 75 (IQR 71–78) years, respectively. Incidence rates of UTUC were stable, as were proportions of curative treatment intent. Median number of days from referral to treatment was 76 (IQR 57–99) and 90 (IQR 72–118) days, respectively, for tumors of the renal pelvis and ureter, which remained unchanged after introduction of SCP in 2016. Noticeable trends included stable use of kidney-sparing surgery and increased use of MDTB. For radical nephroureterectomy (RNU), robot-assisted technique usage increased even for non-organ-confined tumors (cT3-4) and in one out of three patients undergoing RNU a bladder cuff excision was not registered.
Conclusions: The population-based SNRUBC with high coverage contributes to the knowledge about UTUC with granular and generalizable data. The present study reveals a high proportion of patients not subjected to curatively intended treatment and suggests unmet needs to shorten lead times to treatment and use of bladder cuff excision when performing radical surgery for UTUC in Sweden.
Solutions to Overcome the Challenges of Centers Providing Dental Services: What Managers Should Know?
Authors: K Kalavani
Published: January 2024

Evaluation of a healthcare infrastructure’s efficacy can facilitate identifying information vacancies and aid improving the framework. It is evident following appraising a system’s or organization’s functionality; the finest approaches and pragmatic suggestions should be executed. Specifically, whilst performance appraisal possesses advantageous potential, it will solely prove beneficial when bridging the distance betwixt prevailing and ideal schemes through introducing choices, remedies and evidence-based policymaking.
An Editorial Review
Authors: HM Fares
Published: January 2024

It is inevitable that throughout the last decade there has been a rapid turnover in the field of Dental Medicine with an outstanding and continuous progression. The field of conservatism or, more precisely, ultra conservatism, is, currently, expanding to include the whole medical and dental field, as well. It is very evident that comparison of the natural tooth structure to any restorative material, no matter how sophisticated it is, would be in favor of the natural tooth structure, in terms of, both, function and esthetics.
Muslim Prayer (Salah), and Its Restorative Effect: Psychophysiological Explanation
Authors: Suseno Bayu
Published: January 2024

Stress is the most common problem experienced by people across ages and is associated with poor psychological and physical health. Stress is related to emotional and mental states that can be seen psychologically, namely relaxed and focused, also physiologically through the central nervous system (CNS) and autonomic nervous system (ANS), both sympathetic (SNS) and parasympathetic nervous systems (PNS). Salah, as obligatory Muslim worship, is a coping strategy beneficial for psychological and other aspects, such as physical and neurological health. Salah has a restorative effect, such as reducing mental fatigue and stress, as explained by attention restorative theory (ART) and stress restorative theory (SRT). Salah can reduce stress, psychologically and physiologically, indicated by an increment in PNS [nuHF of heart rate variability (HRV), galvanic skin responses (GSR), heart rate (HR), and blood pressure (BP) activity and a decrease in SNS (nuLF and LF/HF of HRV) also increase of alpha brainwave which part of the central nervous system (CNS). In terms of focus, concentration, and awareness, salah is perceived as giving the worshiper a better mental state. In addition, salah increases the gamma power, which is part of CNS and related to awareness. Interestingly, the relaxation effect of salah is higher in the prostration position; also, reciting the Holy Quran while doing salah has higher effects on focus and attention than mimic salah. Apart from the obligation of salah, the psychological and physiological benefits of salah should make a Muslim pray obediently, and the finding that reciting the Holy Quran ayah during salah and prostration has a higher effect shows that remembering Allah is vital.
Memory wars: A solution to the conflict
Authors: Morales-Valiente Claudia , Manzanero Antonio L.
Published: January 2024

The validity of dissociative memory in forensic contexts and the causes of the so-called "memory wars" are discussed. Misconceptions between clinical and forensic psychology, a deficient definition of amnesia, and the difficulties inherent in studying traumatic memories contribute to the persistence of this controversy. Particularly in the field of forensic psychology, the debate could be attributed to the lack of consensus on scientific evidence. Psychologists need to establish an empirical foundation to understand better the mechanisms of memory involved in remembering and forgetting traumatic memories. The Continuous Accessibility Model of Memory is outlined to explain the retrieval of the different degrees of accessibility to autobiographical memories based on different factors.