bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
China: a new geopolitical force in Africa
Authors: Blishchenko V.
Published: April 2024

In the 21st century China is emerging as a new geo-political power in Africa. This article is dedicated to the conceptual basis of Chinese policy in Africa, practice of regular Forums on China – Africa Cooperation, African dimension of One Belt – One Road Initiative, different aspects of economic partnership between China and Africa.
Innovative Formulation and Efficacy Evaluation of An Antibacterial Face Pack
Authors: Anisha N. Pardeshi  , Vaishnavi K. Jadhav  , Mayuri P. Satao  , Snehal C. More  , Snehal C. More  , Priynka R. Pawar  , Priti R. Paulbudhe  , Prof. Swati L. Khedekar  , Dr . R. H. Kale
Published: April 2024

Discussing the benefits of herbal cosmetics compared to synthetic ones, particularly for addressing various skin issues. Utilizing natural ingredients like multani-mitti, turmeric, aloe vera, sandalwood, orange peel, neem, and rose petals powder in formulations for face packs can potentially offer safer and effective solutions. Evaluating these formulations for their properties and safety measures is a crucial step towards achieving radiant skin while minimizing adverse effects. Formulating a polyherbal face pack using natural ingredients is indeed becoming popular due to the perceived safety and fewer side effects compared to synthetic products. The assessment of organoleptic, Physicochemical, and microscopical characteristics is crucial for ensuring the quality and effectiveness of the product.
Estimación del estado de carga de una batería de litio con redes neuronales y validación con FPGA-en-lazo
Authors: Martínez-Vera Erik , Rosado-Muñoz Alfredo , Bañuelos-Sánchez Pedro
Published: April 2024

Los vehículos eléctricos presentan una alternativa viable para reducir las emisiones de gases tóxicos en las concentraciones urbanas y para disminuir los efectos de los gases de invernadero. La batería de los vehículos eléctricos debe ser monitoreada con precisión para asegurar su funcionamiento adecuado y seguro. Para esto, es necesario desarrollar algoritmos eficientes que permitan estimar de forma precisa el estado de carga mediante dispositivos embarcados en el vehículo. En este trabajo, se utiliza un conjunto de datos de ciclado de una batería de Litio para entrenar una red neuronal para la estimación del estado de carga. Se realiza una optimización bayesiana para establecer la mejor arquitectura de red neuronal y se valida el comportamiento frente a las mediciones reales que ofrece el conjunto de datos. Para su utilización en un dispositivo embarcado, la red neuronal se valida con un modelo de hardware-en-lazo (HIL) en un FPGA con aritmética de punto fijo. Después del entrenamiento se observa un error promedio cuadrático menor al 2% y una precisión promedio del 97.5%.
A Delphi Panel of People With Parkinson’s Disease Regarding Responsibility: Toward a Preliminary Taxonomy
Authors: Meimandi Mahsa , Taghizadeh Ghorban , Kheirollahi Golnoush , Haj Ghani Jafar , HojabriFard Fatemeh , von Rosen Philip , Azad Akram
Published: April 2024

Importance: A sense of agency is associated with complex occupation-related responsibilities. A taxonomy can guide clinicians in enhancing responsibility in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PwPD).

Objective: To (1) discover levels of responsibility in occupations for PwPD and (2) propose a taxonomy for occupations.

Design: A two-round Delphi study with PwPD and a one-round Delphi study with international experts.

Setting: Electronic survey.

Participants: PwPD (N = 75) and international experts (N = 8).

Outcomes and Measures: PwPD expressed their levels of an inherent sense of responsibility for each occupation (1 = very low responsibility, 5 = very high responsibility). International experts rated their level of agreement (5 = strongly agree, 1 = strongly disagree) with each dimension of the taxonomy. A consensus was determined to have been reached if the interquartile range was ≤1 and 70% agreement in two adjacent categories was achieved.

Results: Thirty-three occupation categories were deemed as having very high to moderate responsibility for PwPD. Consequences of actions and the presence of others made up the two-dimensional responsibility taxonomy. Occupations have more challenging responsibility characteristics when they are performed with free choice, a level of high physical effort, alone, and with moral consequences.

Conclusions and Relevance: This study yielded the first consensus among PwPD regarding responsibility in occupations as well as a classification system for charting the complexity of responsibility in occupations. The occupation list we have created can be beneficial to health care professionals when providing interventions or conducting outcome assessments.

Plain-Language Summary: When planning interventions for patients with Parkinson’s disease, it can be helpful for clinicians to be aware of patients’ perspectives regarding their sense of responsibility to perform occupations. The use of a systematic sequence of challenging occupations with responsibility attributes ranging from less complex to more complex can help enhance patient occupational participation.
We’re all in this together: Examining how alternatively certified teachers participate in agricultural education community of practice
Authors: Claflin Kellie , Josh Stewart  , Haley Q. Traini
Published: April 2024

Utilizing Wenger’s (1998) work of Communities of Practice and hermeneutic phenomenology, the purpose of this study was to examine the phenomenon of participation among alternatively certified agriculture teachers in the agriculture teacher community of practice. Two themes emerged as we interpreted the findings: (1) we’re all in this together, and (2) belonging. The findings illustrate the advantages and challenges alternatively certified agriculture teachers identify as they take part in the agriculture teacher community through interactions and support. State leaders in SBAE should use the findings and recommendations as they welcome alternatively certified agriculture teachers into the profession and seek to provide support.
Using cognitive dissonance to evaluate extension impact in rural communities
Authors: Markosyan Tatevik , Sanders Catherine , Lamm Alexa
Published: April 2024

New approaches are needed when working in rural communities to identify and communicate holistic evaluation impacts related to community-based health promotion efforts of Cooperative Extension. Specifically, there is a lack of recorded long-term programmatic impacts of these programs, including behavior changes related to consuming nutritious and healthy food. The current study explored rural community members’ experiences with cognitive dissonance in relation to decreased adult obesity and the adoption of healthier food consumption practices related to an extension health promotion program, as cognitive dissonance can help explain several motivational components of potential behavior change. Through a qualitative research design using a thematic analysis of focus group data, the authors observed an overall positive association between community members’ experiences with cognitive dissonance, resulting in the acceptance of healthier food choices over inherited unhealthy practices, increased knowledge and awareness about nutrient-dense food, and increased physical activity. The cognitive dissonance framework revealed positive indicators of long-term programmatic impact related to food choice and consumption patterns. However, the analysis also indicated that while interventions improved access to resources, socio-economic barriers still existed that would ensure sustainability and depth of positive changes leading to long-term behavioral change in rural communities.
Keeping agricultural education relevant for the 21st century: Assessing the perceptions of local CTE administration on STEM skills integration
Authors: Norris William , Swortzel Kirk , McCubbins OP , VanLeeuwen Dawn , Edgar Don
Published: April 2024

As Career and Technical Education (CTE) propels itself into the 21st century, a focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education has been prioritized. While STEM integration has been held in high regard, many employers claim that students lack the necessary STEM-based skills to be successful in an entry-level position. In addition, the STEM achievement of agricultural education students has not been consistent. This study aimed to ascertain the perceptions of CTE administrators for districts with agricultural education programs on the importance of integrating individual STEM skills into each Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resource (AFNR) pathway. The first research objective found that 51.4% of CTE administrators did not teach in the CTE classroom, even though 71.4% of the time the majority of their duties were CTE related. Furthermore, the results found that the majority of CTE administrators valued all assessed STEM based AFNR standards as Very Important or Extremely Important. A mixed model was used to determine any statistical differences in importance ratings between [State A] and [State B] and among pathway scores. The AFNR pathways with the highest importance ratings included the Animal Science Pathway, Plant Systems Pathway, and the Food Products and Processing Pathway. The AFNR pathways with the lowest ratings included the Power, Structural, and Technical systems pathway, and the Biotechnology pathway. No statistical differences were found between states, suggesting consistency between the CTE administrators in these two states.
University Entrepreneurship Programmes and their Implications for Youth Development in South Africa’s Developmental Agenda: Case Studies from KwaZulu Natal
Authors: Ogunsanya Olajumoke , Mthembu Nomfundo , Anwana Emem
Published: April 2024

The South African government recognizes the significance of youth entrepreneurship amidst a backdrop of a burgeoning youth population, escalating unemployment, and evolving labour market dynamics spurred by technological advancements. Embracing this reality, the government has proactively integrated policies and legislative measures into its developmental agenda to foster youth entrepreneurship. Given that higher education institutions (HEIs) are hubs of young people, their pivotal role in nurturing entrepreneurial capacity among the youth warrants examination. This paper employed a case study approach and qualitative methodology to explore university entrepreneurship programs (UEPs) as tools in advancing youth entrepreneurship and sustainable development. Additionally, the study delved into the development policy and legislative frameworks underpinning youth development and empowerment. Focusing on two HEIs in KwaZulu Natal Province, South Africa, the research utilized inductive content analysis of strategic documents and archival materials. Key findings underscore HEIs' commitment to youth entrepreneurship evidenced by the establishment of dedicated bureaus overseeing various UEPs. The study's practical implications advocate for HEIs to enhance student awareness of UEPs, integrate design thinking into the curriculum, and broaden partnership networks to fortify UEPs' impact.
Physicochemical and Microbiological Studies of Various Brands of Vanilla Ice Cream Manufactured in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman M.S. , Rana J. , Hossan M.T. , Ferdoush Z. , Sultana A.
Published: April 2024

Ice cream enjoys widespread popularity in Bangladesh, particularly during the hot summer months. Despite its reputation for high fat and sugar content, ice cream also boasts essential nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamins. The Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI) has established standards to ensure the quality of ice cream manufactured by various industries operating under different brand names.This study aims to scrutinize four prominent vanilla ice cream brands in Bangladesh, assessing their quality variations and adherence to BSTI standards. The quality of ice cream relies on its physical, chemical, and sensory attributes, influenced by factors such as ingredient types, processing conditions, and storage. The study utilized comprehensive physicochemical analysis, encompassing total solids, fat, solid non-fat, protein, lactose, acidity, pH, and viscosity, coupled with microbial analysis for safety. The findings uncovered notable variations in both physicochemical (especially total solid, fat, protein and lactose content) and microbial characteristics among the four ice cream brands, despite all selected brands complying with the standards set by BSTI.
The Scandalous God & Christology at the Crossroads
Authors: Cole-Arnal Oscar
Published: April 2024

Title: The scandalous God: the use and abuse of the cross. Author: Vítor Westhelle. Publisher: Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2006. ISBN: 9780800638955 Title: Christology at the crossroads: a Latin American approach. Author: Jon Sobrino. Publisher: Maryknoll, N.Y.: Orbis Books, 1984. ISBN: 9780883440766.
Living in to its Name and Living up to its Legacy: The public practical theology of KAIROS
Authors: Henry Jennifer
Published: April 2024

KAIROS Canada looks hopefully towards the emerging challenges of continuing public practical theology in a pluralistic, post-apology time and place.
A Review Article: An Ayurvedic Approach on Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) W.S.R Paripluta Yonivyapda
Authors: Bastakoti Kiran Kamal , Jha Kajal , Paudel Dikshya
Published: April 2024

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a spectrum of infection and inflammation of upper female genital tract organs. It has polymicrobial etiology. Primary organisms are sexually transmitted whereas secondary organisms are normally present in the vagina. PID is a major problem to reproductive health of young women. In 85 per cent of the cases it is due to spontaneous exposure in sexually active women whereas in 15 per cent it is followed by gynecological procedures. Patient may present with varying degrees of symptoms. Clinical features include lower abdominal and pelvic pain, dyspareunia, fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, unusual local discharges, etc. Its immediate complications can be peritonitis and septicemia and may eventually lead to dyspareunia, pelvic adhesions, perihepatitis, chronic pelvic pain, ill-health, infertility and increased risk of ectopic pregnancy. Diagnosis is mostly based on clinical assessment and empiric antibiotic therapy is suggested for its management. Public education; screening, tracing and treating the partner/partners and follow-up, re-assessment and good counseling are essential steps of treatment. Ayurveda classical and text books, textbooks on modern gynaecology, online websites and published research papers were studied to understand PID in context of Ayurveda, to explore various treatment modalities of both domains and to know the Kriyakala (stage of the disease) in which Ayurveda can have impactful interventions. Ayurveda treatment modalities can be incorporated with modern medical practices for gratifying result in multitude of manifestations of the disease. Substantial studies are yet in need to yoke together the knowledge of Ayurveda and modern science to develop rewarding integrated approach.
Management of De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis with Agnikarma – A Case Report
Authors: Sharma Aditya , Pokhrel Saroj Mani , Singh Manorma
Published: April 2024

De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a painful condition in which common tendon sheath of abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis is inflamed or thickened, about 3.25 cm proximal to the tip of radial styloid process on the lateral aspect of wrist. It leads to narrowing of the intrathecal lumen.[i] It can result due to repetitive stress, hormonal influence, rheumatoid disease, trauma or degenerative changes. Females are more affected than males. The clinical features include pain on lateral aspect of wrist that is increased on extension and abduction movements of the thumb. Pain may progress in severity to an extent of significant disability. Splinting of the thumb, injection of corticosteroids into the tendon sheath and surgical release of the first dorsal compartment are adopted in the contemporary medical science to manage it. In Ayurveda, the infliction of Ruja (pain) and Karma Kshaya (diminution in the normal activity/disability) has been attributed to vitiation of Vata Dosha. Excessively painful conditions of bones, joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments constitute the indications for Agnikarma (therapeutic heating).

In this case study, a 52 years old female who was a housewife, visited the outdoor patient department (OPD) of Shalya Tantra at hospital of National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA), Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. She presented with the chief complaints of having severe pain at the radial side of the right wrist with difficulty in performing household work for the last six months. On palpation, there was tenderness at the site with a feebly palpable swelling. The Finkelstein’s test was positive. This case was managed with conductive method of Agnikarma using a Swarna Shalaka (rod made up of 14 K gold) with positive outcomes. This case study is presented here to emphasize the applicability of a traditional pain management therapy viz. Agnikarma in modern clinical practice.
Advancing Inclusive and Democratic Medical Pluralism in Nepal
Authors: Subedi Bamdev
Published: April 2024

Medical pluralism is the rule around the world rather than the exception. The type of medical pluralism that exists in many settings, however, is hierarchical, exclusionary, and undemocratic. Medical pluralism has official acceptance in Nepal, where both biomedicine and traditional systems of medicine have legitimate space in formal health care system. However, traditional systems of medicine fall far behind in terms of budgetary allocation, institutional strengths, service delivery, education and research, and local medical systems have not yet attained legitimate status. This paper offers a perspective on the structure of medical pluralism and suggests some measures that can contribute to Nepal's efforts toward inclusive and democratic medical pluralism.
Case study of Ama roga with respect to hypersensitivity type I reaction
Authors: Maharjan Nikee
Published: April 2024

Ayurveda is the veda recalled by Lord Brahma at the dawn of human existence for the betterment of human life in swarga loka and Prithvi Loka. It is therefore Anadi i.e. with no beginning nor ending, Sashwat I.e. eternal and with its own basic principles. The principle of Agni and Ama is one of them. Agni is considered as the prime factor in the maintenance of life whereas if same agni is in in equilibrium state the ingested food taken is not digested properly leading to formation of toxin particles that is known as Ama which can further prevent proper nurture of rasa raktadi dhatus. So, ama can be defined as a substance which is involved in the process of paka without attaining its final form being circulated via blood in body as foreign particle or free radicles and over a long period of time may get converted into amabisha. For which tissue consider as allergens and develops a reaction either to opsonize it or to eliminate that which reaction is known as hypersensitivity. The dysfunction arises out of that reaction is called allergic disorder. Hence all allergic disorders are to be considered as samarogas and the principles of samarogas chikitsa should be adapted to relieve and cure the condition. Therefore, a patient with known case of hypersensitivity type I allergy to milk, egg and shrimp was treated with same principle and had got satisfactory result.
The Role of Ayurveda in managing Cerebral Palsy in Children: A Holistic Approach
Authors: Jaiswal Dr Aakanksha
Published: April 2024

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a complex neurological condition that affects motor function and often co-occurring with cognitive and sensory deficits with a range of challenges. Ayurveda views CP as a manifestation of imbalances in the body’s doshas (Vata, Pitta and Kapha) and focuses on restoring harmony through personalized treatments. This abstract explores the Ayurvedic perspective on CP and its management and upcoming challenges. This paper explores the remarkable progress and improvements observed in a 3 year-old child diagnosed with cerebral palsy and documents the progressive milestones achieved in child, including improved mobility, better communication skills, and increased independence in daily activities.  The study examines the multi-disciplinary approach to treatment and the combined effects of internal medicine and panchakarma therapies improved the therapeutic outcome of patient. Further research and collaborative studies are warranted to validate the efficacy of Ayurvedic treatments in the management of cerebral palsy. Early intervention, initiated at the age of 3, played a crucial role in enhancing his motor skills and functional independence. By highlighting this case, I aim to inspire hope and encourage early intervention and holistic care for children with cerebral palsy by ayurveda, ultimately enhancing their quality of life and promoting their overall well-being.
Alcoholic Liver Disease: An Integrated Approach – Case Study
Authors: Aryal Dr. Hari Sharan
Published: April 2024

Liver, the largest organ of human body, is located in the right upper quadrant of abdomen. Deterioration of liver function markers with inflammation is hepatitis.  Deterioration of liver function induced by alcohol is termed under alcoholic liver disease. Liver diseases are progressive in nature and require utmost care and support. Present case was studied and aimed to evaluate efficacy of Ayurveda principle and allopathic principles in a combined way to ease the liver function and bring back to normalcy. In this case, a 50 yrs. old male patient presented to Kayachikitsa OPD of Ayurveda Chikitsalaya Nardevi with the complain of yellowish discoloration of eyes associated with loss of sleep and itching. Management was done following thorough history taking, careful clinical examination, laboratory investigation, diet and drug adjustment. Under principles of ayurveda and allopathy, virechana and gut sterility, Guduchi, Rohitkyadi and Punarnawa, Liv 52 DS, Livoluk, Zanocalm, Pantoprazole, Rifaximin, Thiamine was prescribed. Treatment showed remarkable improvement in liver function in 1 week medication and normalcy of LFT was attained upon 137th day of medication.
preventive aspect of Ayurveda & Yoga in Hypertension
Authors: Tripathi Pratibha
Published: April 2024

Abstract- Today is the era of technology. Due to easy access of everything, people are becoming fat and devices thinner. Because of the easiness, world is now suffering from lifestyle disorders rather than contagious disease. Contagious disease can be cured may be early or later but lifestyle disorder is dificult to cure once they enter complication. One of the condition of lifestyle disorder is Hypertension. Almost 30% of world population is hypertensive till date. Still 15-20% population are unaware of the condition. Due to modernization, lack of exercise, smoking and drinking habits as  fashion, food habits, etc  younger generations are also getting into the problem. Symptoms usually are unnoticed till it damages heart, kidney or brain, therefore it is also called as Silent Killer. Many hypertensive drugs are in use for hypertension just to control the blood pressure. As per Ayurveda Classics, its aim it to protect the health of healthy person, and treat the diseased condition. Our classics has not described single disease which can be understood as hypertension. So according to our classics such condition should be treated using our Yukti(proper planning) and recognising Dosha ( 3 pillars of body) and Dushya (body tissues). This article is an attempt to how one can avoid the condition of hypertension through Aahar (food), Yoga (body postures) and Pranayama (breathing exercise). We aim to prevent disease, hence the preventive aspect can be understood in this topic.
The Effect of Corporate Governance on Tax Avoidance: Evidence from Listed Firms in Vietnam
Authors:   Faculty of Finance, Banking Academy of Vietnam, Hanoi, Vietnam, Pham Manh Tien , Nguyen Luan Van ,   F14-141-International School of Banking Academy, Banking Academy of Vietnam, Ha Noi, Vietnam, Nguyen Tam Thi Minh ,   F14-209-International School of Banking Academy, Banking Academy of Vietnam, Ha Noi, Vietnam
Published: April 2024

This research aims to examine the relationship between corporate governance and tax avoidance in Vietnam, which desires to contribute to the reduction of informal tax aggressiveness. In this research, it extracts the data from 47 listed companies from the HSX100, the basket of 100 biggest companies listed in the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HOSE) in Vietnam from 2017 to 2022. The research utilizes the Ordinary Least Square Regression Model to analyze the data given from 282 observations. In addition, Pearson Correlation Coefficient, Variance Inflation Factor and White test of Heteroscedasticity are also used to confirm the validity of the model. The results show that CEO Duality has a negative relationship with Tax Avoidance while Board Size and Audit Quality both show a positive relationship with Tax Avoidance. However, Ownership Concentration, Institutional Ownership, and Executive Compensation do not show any relationship with Tax Avoidance. Throughout the research, it is beneficial to provide businesses and regulators with a better understanding of the role of corporate governance in managing tax risks and optimizing tax payments, by first incorporating tax management conducts into Corporate Social Responsibly initiatives of companies in Vietnam. Besides, it is needed for the Vietnam authority to set stricter rules and oversight over corporate activities to ensure the adequacy of tax revenue in maintaining its economy at a stable level.
The Effects of Foreign Direct Investment on Economic Growth (Gross Domestic Product) in Tanzania
Authors:   Mzumbe University, Economics Department, P.O Box 5, Mzumbe, Tanzania, Utouh Harold M.L. , Mchukwa Ephrahi W. ,   Mzumbe University, Economics Department, P.O Box 5, Mzumbe, Tanzania, Tibuhinda Ruth N. ,   Mzumbe University, Economics Department, P.O Box 5, Mzumbe, Tanzania
Published: April 2024

This study aims to analyse the effects of Foreign Direct Investment on Economic Growth (Gross Domestic Product) in Tanzania. The World Bank’s data on foreign direct investment and gross domestic product from 1988 to 2021 was employed in order to achieve the purpose of the study. The Vector Autoregressive Regression (VAR) Model was selected, in which a neoclassical growth model was applied within the implementation of this model. According to the findings of the research that was carried out, the Gross Domestic Product was primarily influenced by its prior values, which suggests that the economy is capable of some degree of self-sufficiency in terms of driving changes in the economy. According to the findings, foreign direct investment had a relatively minimal direct impact on gross domestic product, which suggests that other factors played a more significant role in influencing economic performance. There was no bidirectional causal relationship between gross domestic product and foreign direct investment; they both functioned independently of one another. It has been established that endogenous shocks have a significant role in driving changes in both GDP and FDI, which underscores the impact that internal forces have on the economic system. The importance of taking into account internal factors while conducting an analysis of economic growth has been brought to light as a result of these findings, which have contributed to a better understanding of the complex relationship that exists between GDP and FDI.
CONSELHO TUTELAR: NOVAS ATRIBUIÇÕES DECORRENTES DA LEI Nº 14.344/2022 (LEI HENRY BOREL)
Authors: Oliveira Giovanna Soares Lima , Saraiva Rodrigo Araújo
Published: April 2024

O cenário da criança e do adolescente tem mudado, porém a violência doméstica e familiar contra eles ainda persiste, mesmo envolto aos avanços legislativos que visam salvaguardar essas pessoas em desenvolvimento, dito isso o objetivo do presente artigo é explicar as recentes modificações trazidas pela Lei nº. 14.344/2022 em relação às atribuições dos Conselhos Tutelares em matéria de violência doméstica contra crianças e adolescentes, nele se utiliza de uma abordagem qualitativa, indutiva, através da análise de fontes bibliográficas e documentais, conclui-se que o cenário da violência domestica continua e que o desconhecimento das atribuições do Estatuto da Criança e do Adolescente, sobretudo as trazidas pela Lei Henry Borel, auxiliam para manter esse cenário.
PALESTINSKO-IZRAELSKI KONFLIKT: MEDNARODNO PRAVO – QUO VADIS?
Authors: T. Veber Maruša
Published: April 2024

Povzetek. Palestinsko-izraelski konflikt odpira številna mednarodnopravna vprašanja, ki so v prispevku analizirana z vidika pravice narodov do samoodločbe, prepovedi uporabe sile (jus ad bellum), mednarodnega prava oboroženih spopadov (jus in bello), pravil za ugotavljanje individualne odgovornosti in odgovornosti držav (jus post bellum) ter obveznosti mednarodne skupnosti pri odzivanju na grobe kršitve mednarodnega prava. Razumevanje teh pravil je nujno za ugotavljanje morebitne odgovornosti različnih akterjev, poleg tega pa razkriva dva vidika modernega mednarodnega prava. Na eni strani situacije uporabe sile nedržavnih akterjev tako z vidika jus ad bellum kot jus in bello terjajo poglobljeno analizo in odpirajo številna vprašanja, na katere »na državno suverenost« osredinjeno mednarodno pravo nima enoznačnih odgovorov. Po drugi strani pa se s pripoznanjem erga omnes (partes) narave nekaterih obveznosti iz področja prava človekovih pravic ter oboroženih spopadov, vse bolj utemeljuje prepričanje, da se vse države v mednarodni skupnosti lahko odzivajo na najhujše kršitve mednarodnega prava in uveljavljajo odgovornost zadevne države. Vendar pa prispevek zaključi, da selektivnost implementacije ob odsotnosti politične volje ostaja temeljna pomanjkljivost mednarodnega prava, za katero se zdi, da jo bo težko premostilo.
Ključni pojmi: Palestina, nedržavni akterji, odgovornost, pravica narodov do samoodločbe, pravica do samoobrambe, mednarodno pravo oboroženih spopadov, erga omnes (partes).
EXPLORING FACTORS AFFECTING PAKISTANI STUDENTS’ INTENTIONS TO ACCEPT AND USE MOBILE ADVERTISING: A UTAUT2 PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Zaheer Nauman , Kashif Muhammed , Kropivnik Samo
Published: April 2024

Abstract. The article aims to explore factors that influence respondents’
intentions to accept and use mobile advertising by proposing an extension of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT)
with perceived enjoyment, perceived irritation, and personalisation. To
identify the factors affecting the acceptability of mobile advertising, the
intentions and behaviours of respondents regarding mobile advertising are
reviewed. The study was conducted in Pakistan by using online survey.
Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) was applied to examine the sample size of 446 respondents. The findings revealed
certain crucial factors (such as effort expectancy, performance expectancy,
perceived enjoyment, perceived irritation, and personalisation) that can
affect respondents’ intentions to accept mobile advertising. Also revealed
was the relationship between respondents’ intentions to accept and use
behaviour regarding mobile advertising. It is established that respondents
expect more personalised promotional messages to be shown to them in
line with their needs and preferences. Here, advertisers must pay attention
to the contextual relevance of the ads while noting the element of irritation
that can be felt among consumers, as such ads create negative attitudes
and intentions towards mobile advertising.
Keywords: mobile advertising, consumer intentions, use behaviour, unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT), Partial Least
Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM), Pakistan.
Lysozyme as an alternative to antibiotics improves growth, antioxidants status, immunity, and intestinal bacteria in broiler chickens during the fattening period
Authors: El-Ratel Ibrahim T. , EL-Deep Mahmoud H. , Alharbi Nada K. , Alyoubi Worood A. A. , El-Kholy Khaled H. , Badawy Ahmed A. , Ahmed Ahmed Ezzat , El Basuini Mohammed F. M. , Alagawany Mahmoud , Fouda Sara F.
Published: April 2024

Abstract. The present study aimed to evaluate the impact of dietary lysozyme levels on the growth performance, hematological and blood biochemical parameters, immunity, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal microbial count in broiler chickens. Three-hundred 1 d old birds (Cobb-avian500) were used and divided into five groups (five replicates per group, 60 birds per replicate). Birds in the first group were fed a control diet, while birds in the second, third, fourth, and fifth groups were fed the control diet with 0.2 g lincomycin, 1 g commercial lysozyme, 25 mg chicken egg lysozyme, and 50 mg egg lysozyme per kg of diet, respectively. Results confirmed that, in comparison with the control diet, all supplements had greater impacts on final body weight and body weight gain, and only the egg lysozyme diet (50 mg kg−1 diet) increased feed intake. Lincomycin, commercial lysozyme, and egg lysozyme (25 mg) improved the feed conversion ratio (FCR). Birds fed commercial lysozyme and egg lysozymes showed significantly increased hemoglobin and red blood cell counts. All supplements reduced white blood cells, heterophils, and heterophils / lymphocytes ratio and increased lymphocytes. All supplements significantly increased serum total protein, albumin, globulin, and glucose. The diet of egg lysozyme (50 mg kg−1) significantly decreased alpha-globulin, alanine aminotransferase, triglycerides, cholesterol, and urea levels and increased high-density lipoproteins. Diets with lincomycin, commercial lysozyme, and egg lysozyme significantly increased antioxidant capacity and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA). The interferon-gamma (IFNγ) and interlukin-2 (IL-2) were significantly improved by lincomycin, commercial lysozyme and egg lysozyme diets, but interlukin-10 (IL-10) was significantly increased only by the egg lysozyme (50 mg kg−1) diet. The total bacterial count, Salmonella, Escherichia coli, and Proteus counts were significantly decreased. Dressing rate and breast weight percentage were significantly increased by the egg lysozyme (50 mg kg−1) diet. Thigh weight percentage was increased only by the commercial lysozyme diet. In conclusion, chicken egg lysozyme (50 mg kg−1), a promising alternative for antibiotics in broiler chickens' diet, can enhance growth performance, antioxidant status, immunity, and intestinal bacteria.
Carbon budget concept and its deviation through the pulse response lens
Authors: Avakumović Vito
Published: April 2024

Abstract. The carbon budget concept states that the global mean temperature (GMT) increase is roughly linearly dependent on cumulative emissions of CO2. The proportionality is measured as the transient climate response to cumulative emissions of carbon dioxide (TCRE). In this paper, the deviations of the carbon budget from the strict linear relationship implied by the TCRE are examined through the lens of a temperature response to an emission pulse (i.e., pulse response) and its relationship with a nonlinear TCRE. Hereby, two sources of deviation are distinguished: emission scenario and climate state dependence. The former stems from the scenario choice, i.e., the specific emission pathway for a given level of cumulative emissions and the latter from the change in TCRE with changing climatic conditions. Previous literature argues for scenario independence using a stylized set of emission scenarios, and offers a way to fit a nonlinear carbon budget equation. This paper shows how the pulse response, viewed as a Green's function, gives a unifying perspective on both scenario and state dependence. Moreover, it provides an optimization program that tests the scenario independence under the full range of emission pathways for a given set of constraints. In a setup chosen in this paper, the deviations stemming from emission pathway choices are less than 10 % of the overall temperature increase and gradually diminish. Moreover, using the pulse response as a Green's function, the scenario-dependent effects of a reduced-complexity climate model were replicated to a high degree, confirming that the behavior of scenario-dependent deviations can be explained and predicted by the shape of the pulse response. Additionally, it is shown that the pulse response changes with climatic conditions, through which the carbon budget state dependency is explained. Using a pulse response as an approximation for a state-dependent TCRE, an alternative method to derive a nonlinear carbon budget equation is provided. Finally, it is shown how different calibrations of a model can lead to different degrees of carbon budget nonlinearities. The analysis is done using FaIRv2.0.0, a simple climate emulator model that includes climate feedback modifying the carbon cycle, along with a one-box model used for comparison purposes. The Green's function approach can be used to diagnose both models' carbon budget scenario dependency, paving the way for future investigations and applications with other and more complex models.
Conceptual principles of water resources management in irrigated agriculture
Authors: Romashchenko Mykhailo , Bohaienko Vsevolod , Matiash Tetiana , Shatkovskyi Andrii , Kolomiets Serhii , Danylenko Iuliia
Published: April 2024

Abstract. Climate change causes a progressive deterioration of natural water supply increasing the need for irrigation and more rational use of water resources in it as the main mean for ensuring sustainable agriculture. Here we present the conceptual provisions intended to provide a capability to achieve maximum irrigation efficiency, which generalize our experience in irrigation water management in Ukraine. Main principles that should be integrated in an efficient decision support system include the use of a narrow high range of maintained moisture content in the root zone of soil; pressure as a criterion of moisture content level; differential, particularly fractional-order, models of moisture transfer for the prediction of irrigation schedules and rates; several methods of evapotranspiration assessment to improve the accuracy; remote sensing data to disseminate predictions to areas not covered by instrumental monitoring tools. The application of these principles support an increase in crop yields accompanied by irrigation water volumes reduction eliminating water losses for infiltration and the development of flooding and secondary salinization processes.
Tracing and hydraulic modelling to assess the hydraulic performance of a constructed wetland
Authors: Lemaire Bruno J. , Chaumont Cédric , Tournebize Julien , Henine Hocine
Published: April 2024

Abstract. Constructed wetlands are widely used to protect sensitive water resources from non-point source pollution from agriculture. Their potential to remove nitrate and pesticides increases with the water residence time and a uniform distribution of the inflow over the wetland area. Over the hydrological season, inflow variations greatly modify the theoretical residence time. The knowledge of the corresponding variations of the hydraulic performance constitutes a gap for the better management of treatment wetlands, especially for wetland with heterogeneous vegetation implementation. The aim of this work is to investigate how the hydraulic performance changes with the flow rate in a partly vegetated wetland. The study site, a 0.5 ha wetland, is located in an area of intensive cereal crop production in Northern France. The three-dimensional hydrodynamic model Delft3D-Flow was used to simulate flow through vegetation, forced by observed meteorological conditions. It was calibrated on continuous outflow concentration measurements and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) images during a 13 d tracing experiment with rhodamine WT. The simulated hydraulic performance indicators matched satisfactorily with observed values thanks to the detailed description of the vegetation. Simulations for the locally usual flow range and for a fixed water depth showed a limited increase of the hydraulic performance with the flow rate. This shows that conducting a tracing at low flow is sufficient to assess the average hydraulic performance of a wetland.
Rainfall data augmentation in Northern Italy through daily extremes and the Hershfield factor
Authors: Mazzoglio Paola , Butera Ilaria , Claps Pierluigi
Published: April 2024

Abstract. The majority of rainfall measurements in the world is at the daily scale, i.e. related to a specific calendar day and measured over fixed 24 h. On these data, daily annual maximum rainfall depths (F-maxima) series are easily obtained. On the other hand, 24 h annual maximum rainfall depths (S-maxima), which refer to a period starting at any instant, are more useful indicators. S-maxima values cannot be less than the F-maxima, and are generally higher. The ratio between these extremes, called Hershfield factor (H), has been studied to move from F-maxima to S-maxima, allowing to take advantage of the relevant amount of information included in historical records of daily extremes. For instance, before 1980, in the Italian Hydrological Yearbooks only a subset (< 50 %) of the rain gauges was equipped with a recording device, from which annual maxima over 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 consecutive hours can be derived. In this study we investigate the possibility of using F-maxima to complement the S-maxima records related to the Po river basin and the Liguria region (North of Italy). As a first step we retrieved from official databases all the daily rainfall measurements, available over this area, from early 1900 until today and we quality-controlled the measurements. We then computed the annual H for all the stations and all the years where both the F- and S-maxima were available, to obtain data that can be analyzed in their temporal and spatial variability. The spatial distribution of the Hershfield factor shows values similar to the ones suggested in the literature and is related to the geographic position of the stations, allowing the possibility to identify some distinct areas with positive or negative anomalies. The obtained map of the H factor, with interpolated local anomalies, allows to reconstruct the missing S-maxima in stations with only F-maxima, and improve the knowledge of the spatial variability of sub-daily rainfall extremes.
Pros and cons of various efficiency criteria for hydrological model performance evaluation
Authors: Onyutha Charles
Published: April 2024

Abstract. Confidence in hydrological predictions is linked to the model's performance in reproducing available observations. However, judgment of a model's quality is challenged by the differences which exist among the available efficiency criteria or objective functions. In this study, model outputs based on several objective functions were compared and found to differ with respect to various circumstances of variability, number of outliers, and model bias. Computational difficulty or speed of a model during calibration was shown to depend on the choice of the efficiency criterion. One source of uncertainty in hydrological modelling is the selection of a particular calibration method. However, this study showed that the choice of an objective function is another sub-source of calibration-related uncertainty. Thus, tackling the issue of uncertainties on model results should comprise combination of modelled series obtained based on (i) various objective functions separately applied to calibrate a model, (ii) different calibration methods, and (iii) several hydrological models. The pros and cons of many new and old efficiency criteria which can be found explored in this study highlight the need for modellers to understand the impact of various calibration-related sub-sources of uncertainties on model outputs.
Semi-automated morphological characterization using South Rivers Toolbox
Authors: Yépez Santiago , Salas Francisca , Nardini Andrea , Valenzuela Noelia , Osores Víctor , Vargas José , Rodríguez Rolando , Piégay Hervé
Published: April 2024

Abstract. Automatic morphological characterization of river systems is important because it provides valuable information on river behavior, helps quantify fluvial changes, improves model accuracy, and supports the management and restoration of river systems. In recent years, scientific interest in the development and use of automated tools for the geomorphological characterization of rivers has increased. The objective of this study was to characterize in a semi-automated way the River Styles of the Duqueco River in south-central Chile. To achieve this objective, an experimental complement within QGIS called South Rivers Toolbox (SRT) was developed. This toolbox allows users to characterize and classify River Styles based on hydromorphological metrics extracted at segment scale, implementing a semi-automatic approach that no longer relies on subjective expert judgment. As a result of the analysis, 43 Rivers Styles have been classified and characterized using the SRT. The upper zone is characterized by being mostly confined, single-channel, with a bed dominated by boulders and blocks, this section of the river is highly affected by hydropower generation plants; the middle zone is confined and single-channel, with a change in the granulometry more dominated by boulders. The lower zone is more diverse in styles, unconfined, with a high presence of geomorphic units that give way to multichannel styles and transition zones. Using the SRT program it is possible to retrospectively analyze the evolution of the river, identifying sections sensitive to geomorphological modification, which is very useful to synoptically evaluate the flood risk, given that, traditionally, for this type of studies only hydraulic modeling is implemented at a river section scale, often with total lack of knowledge of how the river functions and evolves.
The importance of retention times in Natural Flood Management interventions
Authors: Follett Elizabeth , Beven Keith , Hankin Barry , Mindham David , Chappell Nick
Published: April 2024

Abstract. The starting point for this study is the simulation study of Metcalfe et al. (2018) which suggested that retention times of the order of 10 h are required for natural flood management storage features to have a maximum effect on large flow peaks. A analysis of the celerity characteristics for some log jams at Tebay Gill, Cumbria (upland UK), suggests that the impacts of storage in slowing the celerities is only of the order of minutes. An analysis of storage-discharge dynamics based on observations at 4 jams reveals that the dynamics of storages can be represented with time constants of between 3 and 213 min, still well short of those required to maximise the effects for larger flood flows. That is not to say that there will not be reduction in flood peaks for smaller events, only that for large events the effects will be limited. A spreadsheet tool for retention times has been developed to help in the design of new schemes that is freely available.