bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Precepting in critical care: Communication and collaboration
Authors: House-Kokan Michelle , Perumal Ramesh
Published: October 2024

Well-honed interpersonal and communication skills are essential in an effective preceptorship. Preceptors not only facilitate and develop positive interpersonal relationships between themselves, the preceptee, the patient and family, and the healthcare team, but they have a responsibility to foster and develop the preceptee’s interpersonal and communication skills as well. Doing so is even more important and more challenging in the complex, busy, and often overwhelming critical care environment. This article is the third in a series that aims to support new and experienced critical care nurse preceptors, as they guide those who will become the future of critical care nursing. Effective interpersonal and communication skills are essential to establish any constructive professional relationship in nursing practice, but even more so in the critical care environment due to its fast-paced, highly acute and complex nature. Effective communication skills help build trusting relationships, foster a caring environment, allow greater accuracy and understanding of information and, ultimately, lead to safer patient- and family-centred care (Arnold & Boggs, 2020). Strong interpersonal and communication skills can assist preceptors to be more effective personally and even more so in their role guiding preceptees (Hardie et al., 2022). At the same time, preceptees may have limited experience with communication in clinical practice, particularly in the high-pressure context of an intensive care unit (ICU), and it is the preceptor’s responsibility to assist their preceptees in developing these skills.
Influence of the Seldinger technique on the dwell time and failure rates of ultrasound-guided peripheral cannulas: A prospective observational study
Authors: Smith-Hanratty Brendan , Walker Ryan
Published: October 2024

Ultrasound is commonly used to assist with peripheral vascular access and there is growing evidence that there is an advantage to using guidewires to aid insertion. This prospective observational study compares outcomes in ultrasound-guided peripheral cannulation using either standard catheter-over-needle devices or a single lumen arterial catheter inserted using the Seldinger technique. Analysis of results demonstrated a clear advantage in terms of device survival to completion of therapy in the guidewire group.
Peripheral vascular access devices for hospitalized older adults: A scoping review protocol
Authors: Howell Naomi , Craswell Alison , Mason Matt , Marsh Nicole
Published: October 2024

Background: Insertion of peripheral vascular access devices (PVADs) is the most commonly performed invasive medical procedure worldwide. Peripheral vascular access devices pose a significant risk of complications, especially in older adults, who experience age-related changes in skin, connective tissue, and veins. Adults older than 65 years old have the highest rate of hospital admissions, and a higher prevalence of co-morbid conditions than do younger adults. Despite the risks, PVADs in this population have not been well-explored. Aim: To identify the available evidence on PVADs in older adult populations, including patient experience. This scoping review protocol will function as a framework for a review, using a systematic process of published and grey literature. The population is adults 65 years of age and over. Methods: The Johanna Briggs Institute methodology, built on the Arksey and O’Malley framework, will guide this scoping review. A search of electronic medical databases will be conducted. Grey literature searches will supplement the electronic database searches. A data extraction tool will be employed for screening and data extraction. The PRISMA-ScR flow chart will be used to present the methodological process, and the extracted data will be tabulated with a narrative summary. Conclusion: This scoping review protocol provides the framework that underpins the scoping review, which will explore the existing evidence to inform future research.
Exploring the administration of intravenous antibiotics and fluids via portable intravenous pump versus intravenous pump and pole to improve mobility in patients diagnosed with cancer (The ACTIVE Trial): A randomized controlled trial protocol
Authors: Matthews Robyn , Russell Emily , Wessling Claire , Sandler Carolina , Eastgate Melissa , Hajkowicz Krispin , Pavey Toby , Clark Bronwyn , Scanlon Brighid , Gavin Nicole
Published: October 2024

Purpose: Haemato-oncology patients who require treatment for infections in the hospital receive intravenous antibiotics (IVABs) and intravenous therapy (IVT) via an infusion pump attached to a pole on wheels. This IV pole can hinder a patient’s mobility and ability to perform activities of daily living. A computerized ambulatory delivery device (CADD), often used in the outpatient or home setting, is a portable infusion pump that delivers IVABs and IVT without the need of a wheel-based pole. This study will investigate the use of portable CADDs in the inpatient setting to determine if they improve patients’ mobility when compared with using the IV pole. Methods: A randomized controlled trial of patients requiring IVABs or IVT, of two haemato-oncology wards in a large, quaternary hospital, will recruit 110 adults randomized on a 1:1 basis into either a CADD arm or an IV pole arm. The primary outcome is mobility as assessed by number of steps per day (recorded via accelerometer). Secondary outcomes include sleep disturbance, quality of life, and hospital-acquired complications. All randomized patients will be analyzed by intention to treat.
Explorando a detecção de conflitos semânticos nas integrações de código em múltiplos métodos
Authors: Maciel Toni , Borba Paulo , Silva Léuson da , Burity Thaís
Published: October 2024

Durante o desenvolvimento de software, integrar mudanças dos diferentes desenvolvedores é crucial. No entanto, essa ação pode resultar em uma versão do sistema que não preserva os comportamentos individuais pretendidos por eles, causando o que chamamos de conflitos de merge semânticos. As ferramentas atuais para detectar esses conflitos são limitadas a cenários mais simples, onde contribuições conflitantes ocorrem dentro do mesmo método. Para superar essa limitação, este artigo adapta e avalia uma ferramenta que detecta conflitos, considerando a interferência causada por mudanças feitas em diferentes métodos e classes. Para alcançar isso, a ferramenta explora a criação de testes utilizando ferramentas de geração de testes. Para avaliar a eficácia da ferramenta proposta, foi realizado um estudo empírico com uma amostra de 613 cenários sintéticos de merge criados com conflitos, representando uma amostra seis vezes maior em comparação com estudos anteriores. Como resultado, foi possível observar a detecção de 230 conflitos pela ferramenta, demonstrando seu potencial para detectar conflitos ao explorar múltiplas mudanças e apoiar ferramentas existentes. Além disso, os resultados reforçam para a importância em explorar diferentes ferramentas de geração de testes em conjunto.
Avaliação de Métodos para Elicitação e Especificação de Requisitos de Usabilidade com Histórias de Usuário: Um Experimento Controlado
Authors: Fonseca Clara Lima , Zaina Luciana A. M. , Marques Anna Beatriz
Published: October 2024

Considerar aspectos de qualidade desde os primeiros estágios do processo de desenvolvimento de software é fundamental para aumentar seu sucesso, evitar retrabalho e garantir a satisfação do usuário final. Entretanto, no contexto do desenvolvimento ágil, esses aspectos são vistos como secundários em relação aos requisitos do software. Para resolver esse problema, pesquisas sugerem abordagens para incorporar requisitos não funcionais, como usabilidade e experiência do usuário, nas histórias de usuários, que são um artefato valioso para as equipes ágeis. Este artigo tem como objetivo comparar duas abordagens que apoiam equipes ágeis na elicitação e especificação de artefatos que ajudam a melhorar a qualidade do software. Duas abordagens propostas recentemente, USARP (USability Requirements with Personas and user stories) e ACUX (Acceptance Criteria of User eXperience) foram selecionadas para serem comparadas em um experimento controlado com a participação de 32 indivíduos. Foram coletados dados quantitativos e qualitativos para avaliar a eficácia, a eficiência, a facilidade de uso e a utilidade das duas abordagens. Os resultados revelaram que o USARP obteve um desempenho melhor em relação ao ACUX em termos de facilidade de uso. Por outro lado, o ACUX demonstrou maior capacidade de especificar as interações do usuário e as funcionalidades do sistema. Os participantes também elogiaram a praticidade, o fornecimento de exemplos e os padrões para a escrita de requisitos de qualidade. Espera-se que esses resultados sirvam para identificar as melhores práticas do USARP e do ACUX, orientar o desenvolvimento futuro de métodos nessa área e contribuir para o aprimoramento das abordagens estudadas.
Promise+: expandindo a base de dados de requisitos de software Promise_exp
Authors: Silva Bruno , Nascimento Rodrigo , Rivero Luis , Braz Geraldo , Santos Rodrigo Pereira dos , Martins Luiz E. G. , Viana Davi
Published: October 2024

A classificação de requisitos de software é um dos processos da etapa de análise de requisitos, sendo fundamental para a compreensão do software a ser criado. Realizar essa classificação manualmente é uma tarefa difícil, demorada e sujeita a erros. Nesse sentido, trabalhos na literatura propõem utilizar algoritmos de aprendizado de máquina supervisionado para automatizar essa tarefa. As bases de dado mais comumente usadas para este processo são PROMISE e PROMISE_- exp. No entanto, estudos anteriores identificaram questões como o número limitado de requisitos e a falta de diversidade das bases de dados existentes. Essas limitações impactam negativamente o desempenho dos algoritmos de aprendizado de máquina na classificação de requisitos. Este trabalho é uma nova expansão da base de requisitos com classificação feita por especialistas e avaliada no desempenho de seis algoritmos de aprendizado de máquina. Apresentamos a expansão, nomeadamente Promise+, que representa um aumento de quase 280% face ao PROMISE_exp. Para a tarefa de classificação binária, o Promise+ representou uma melhoria na identificação de requisitos funcionais. Quanto às tarefas multiclasse, a maioria dos algoritmos treinados com Promise+ apresentou melhor desempenho em mais classes de requisitos não funcionais. Por fim, o Promise+ estará disponível para toda a comunidade de Engenharia de Software.
Current DevOps Teaching Techniques: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Garcia Pedro S. C. , Ferreira José , Gonçalves Matheus , Carneiro Tiago , Figueiredo Eduardo , Pereira Igor M.
Published: October 2024

DevOps is a set of practices that deals with the coordination between development and operations, in the context of teams, with the main objective of ensuring continuous integration and delivery, quality, and reliability. DevOps, which builds upon modern processes, is currently evolving. So, finding specific techniques for teaching it is crucial. This study aims to identify in the software engineering literature the existence of studies that have used techniques to teach DevOps in the last five years. To achieve this, a systematic literature review was conducted to identify teaching techniques applied in the DevOps contexts, as well as the associated benefits and challenges. From 27 papers with 40 cited techniques, we found that the most common teaching techniques are Project-Based Learning followed by Collaborative Learning and the Flipped Classroom, where 70% can be considered active methods. The benefits include increased student engagement, simulation of real industry experience, and improved practical and technical skills. However, challenges arise in validating student performance, keeping up with the rapidly changing DevOps content, and finding sufficient time to teach during a course.
Teaching Software Engineering: An Overview of Current Approaches and Practices in the Last Decade of SBES
Authors: Clementino Ana , Lima Erick , Lima Luann , Guedes André , Netto Dorgival , Coutinho Jarbele
Published: October 2024

Software Engineering is constantly evolving, with new tools and programming languages fluctuating in popularity over time. However, the curriculum of Software Engineering disciplines cannot keep up with these innovations and remain current. On the other hand, if the courses promote constant adaptation of the teaching of the subject to keep it in line with updates, this may result in a misaligned curriculum. Therefore, it is necessary to have an indepth understanding of successful practices, the challenges faced, and the opportunities that may arise in this process. Based on this understanding, this paper presents a bibliographic study of the Brazilian Symposium on Software Engineering (SBES) over the last ten years (2013 to 2023) with the main objective of investigating the approaches currently used to promote teaching areas that include Software Engineering. In this way, 48 papers were identified that aim to answer the questions investigated. Finally, the intention is, based on the best practices measured, to develop a strategic model that can serve as a guide for identifying existing approaches.
Design Systems and Component Packages as an Interface for Accessibility
Authors: Diniz Sofia , Gama Kiev
Published: October 2024

A design system is a collection of interrelated patterns and shared practices, systematically organized to fulfill the objectives of digital products. This research aims to understand how Design Systems can influence software developers in implementing accessibility guidelines. For this purpose, leading design systems were analyzed for their coverage of accessibility, and a component package seamlessly integrating accessibility concerns was created and tested by software developers. Results indicated that an accessible Design System can positively influence developers to incorporate accessibility, thus enhancing the user experience in the final product.
Mining repositories to analyze the lifecycle of frameworks and libraries
Authors: Gesse Júnior Ronaldo Rubens , Souza Higor Amario de
Published: October 2024

In a constantly evolving technological landscape, it is crucial to choose the right components and technologies for a software project to ensure its successful development. Frameworks and libraries are essential components that provide functionality to the code and accelerate the development process. They assist teams in delivering results more efficiently to the end user through software reuse. This work proposes using Mining Software Repositories (MSR) to analyze the lifecycle of frameworks and libraries.We aim to understand whether a framework or library is properly updated, maintained, and sought after by the community, which may indicate its lifecycle stage.We explored data from several open source projects: the number of commits and contributors over time. Also, we are using data from Google Trends to explore the developer community’s interest in such libraries and frameworks. We are using a trend metric – Exponential Moving Average (EMA) – over the prior mentioned variables to indicate the lifecycle stage of such frameworks and libraries. The initial results show that our approach can distinguish lifecycle trends for frameworks within the same domain. Our future research will involve examining additional MSR data (such as pull requests, issues, and code changes), obtaining other data sources (Q & A sites), and applying time series Machine Learning techniques to improve the analysis.
Perspectives and Challenges of iOS Developers in Using Reactive Programming with RxSwift
Authors: Farias Elaine Cruz , Zimmerle Carlos , Gama Kiev
Published: October 2024

Reactive programming, which deals with asynchronous data streams and events, is gaining popularity but remains underexplored as a research topic. In the iOS ecosystem, RxSwift stands out as a widely used framework for reactive programming despite its challenges. This study investigates the difficulties faced by iOS developers when using RxSwift. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and a code comprehension questionnaire was applied to map developers’ perspectives and the main challenges encountered. The paradigm shift was identified as the primary obstacle, with specific difficulties in creating streams, managing memory, and handling concurrency. Architectural patterns and learning resources were also cited as significant barriers. This research provides an overview of reactive development with RxSwift in iOS, proposing ways to optimize the learning journey and maximize the benefits of this approach.
Generation of test datasets using LLM - Quality Assurance Perspective
Authors: Sousa Jose Leandro , Souza Cristian , Hanada Raiza , Nascimento Diogo , Collins Eliane
Published: October 2024

Domain relevant data and an adequate number of samples are necessary to properly evaluate the robustness of the Machine Learning (ML) models. This is the case for ML models used in the software localization translation task. In general, Neural Machine Translation (NMT) models are used in software localization by automating the translation process of textual content to consider specific linguistic aspects and culture. However, unlike general machine translation which can easily utilize translation corpus for model training and testing, domain-specific machine translation faces a major obstacle due to the scarcity of domain-specific translation data. In the absence of adequate data, this paper first presents a method to generate test samples based on a text generation Large Language Model (LLM) approach. Based on the generated samples, we run tests to assess the robustness of an NMT translation model. The evaluation indicates that human judgment is important to check if the generated text is robust and coherent under different conditions. The evaluation also demonstrates that the generated samples were crucial to show some limitations related to the model’s effectiveness in software localization translation. Basically we discuss issues in specific situations such as date, time formats, numeric representations and measurement units.
AutomTest 3.0: An automated test-case generation tool from User Story processing powered with LLMs
Authors: Santos Joanderson Gonçalves , Maciel Rita Suzana Pitangueira
Published: October 2024

Test-driven development (TDD) and Behavior-driven development (BDD) approaches address software development issues, proposing the creation of unit tests for each system component before implementing the code for the corresponding functionality. This approach results in an objective and compact solution. It ensures that the entire codebase is tested and enhances the overall quality of the software. However, the testing process can be time-consuming and resource-intensive. Some tools were proposed to address those issues, but they lack functionalities based on User Story in a TDD approach. In this context, we propose the AutomTest 3.0 tool, which facilitates unit test case generation from user stories prior to writing the code base related to the functionality. Built upon previous versions of AutomTest, this tool extends the other ones by including generative AI to power the creation of suggestions for methods the software under test should have. This tool creates test cases for Java using techniques such as equivalence class partitioning, natural language processing, and generative artificial intelligence. To evaluate the effectiveness of AutomTest 3.0, we conducted an exploratory study with software development professionals. Their feedback highlighted the tool’s utility in their daily work routines. AutomTest 3.0 demonstrated promising results in test case generation, scenario coverage, and speed advantages in test case creation. https://youtu.be/xoTrvhlfvu8
Knowledge Islands: Visualizing Developers Knowledge Concentration
Authors: Cury Otávio , Avelino Guilherme
Published: October 2024

Current software development is often a cooperative activity, where different situations can arise that put the existence of a project at risk. One common and extensively studied issue in the software engineering literature is the concentration of a significant portion of knowledge about the source code in a few developers on a team. In this scenario, the departure of one of these key developers could make it impossible to continue the project. This work presents Knowledge Islands, a tool that visualizes the concentration of knowledge in a software repository using a state-of-the-art knowledge model. Key features of Knowledge Islands include user authentication, cloning, and asynchronous analysis of user repositories, identification of the expertise of the team’s developers, calculation of the Truck Factor for all folders and source code files, and identification of the main developers and repository files. This open-source tool enables practitioners to analyze GitHub projects, determine where knowledge is concentrated within the development team, and implement measures to maintain project health. The source code of Knowledge Islands is available in a public repository, and there is a presentation about the tool in video.
Multilingual Crowd-Based Requirements Engineering Using Large Language Models
Authors: Pilone Arthur , Meirelles Paulo , Kon Fabio , Maalej Walid
Published: October 2024

A central challenge for ensuring the success of software projects is to assure the convergence of developers’ and users’ views. While the availability of large amounts of user data from social media, app store reviews, and support channels bears many benefits, it still remains unclear how software development teams can effectively use this data. We present an LLM-powered approach called DeeperMatcher that helps agile teams use crowd-based requirements engineering (CrowdRE) in their issue and task management.We are currently implementing a command-line tool that enables developers to match issues with relevant user reviews. We validated our approach on an existing English dataset from a well-known open-source project. Additionally, to check how well DeeperMatcher works for other languages, we conducted a single-case mechanism experiment alongside developers of a local project that has issues and user feedback in Brazilian Portuguese. Our preliminary analysis indicates that the accuracy of our approach is highly dependent on the text embedding method used. We discuss further refinements needed for reliable crowd-based requirements engineering with multilingual support.
SP2Mic: Uma ferramenta para geração de código de microsserviços a partir de stored procedures
Authors: Coutinho Ingrid G. T. , Maia Paulo Henrique M.
Published: October 2024

As regras de negócios implementadas em stored procedures são frequentemente encontradas em sistemas legados. Muitas empresas estão migrando seus sistemas para o estilo arquitetural de microsserviços para obter sistemas mais flexíveis e escaláveis. Essa migração tem sido explorada e abordada de várias formas; no entanto, poucas tratam de sistemas cujas regras de negócios estão implementadas em artefatos de banco de dados, particularmente stored procedures (SPs). A necessidade de migração dessas regras para um sistema mais moderno esbarra em barreiras tecnológicas e é altamente dependente de humanos. Portanto, este trabalho apresenta a ferramenta SP2Mic, que realiza, de forma semiautomática, a geração de código de microsserviços por meio da carga e processamento das stored procedures e interação com o usuário especialista no sistema responsáveis pela interpretação das regras das SPs. A ferramenta possui três módulos principais: carga e processamento das stored procedures, análise das stored procedures e geração do código dos microsserviços. A ferramenta foi utilizada em um sistema real de grande porte, que possui 1.517 SPs. Foi classificada como boa na avaliação de usabilidade realizada por 15 usuários respondendo ao System Usability Scale e teve uma ótima avaliação a partir do relato e entrevistas com especialistas no sistema.
Grasping the Essence
Authors: L’Erario Aldo
Published: October 2024

This volume reconstructs Aristotle's view of the cognition of essences and engages with the current debate on it. Its main thesis is that the source of some current interpretive tensions lies with Aristotle himself, who holds both that knowledge of essence is gained a posteriori and that it is irreducible to perceptual experience. The aim of the book is to show, by contrasting Aristotle's philosophy of science and his philosophical psychology, that his position is coherent. While this strategy has often been neglected in more recent studies for methodological reasons, this study aims to show how fruitful it is.
Gelassen bleiben – vor allem, wenn der Druck zunimmt
Authors: Bennent-Vahle Heidemarie
Published: October 2024

The book understands serenity – especially in combination with prudence – as a holistic practice of freedom based on a modern concept of virtue. If serenity is understood in the sense of a virtue, it is more than a mere feelgood category and is not reduced to a primarily success-oriented strategy. Instead, this volume aims to create a culture of mindfulness in which the pursuit of honest self-reflection and self-regulation leads to changed relationships with the world and new ways of interacting with people. In the course of acknowledging passive and receptive potentials, perspectives for a fundamental re-evaluation of our actions emerge. With reference to antiquity, a critical assessment is made of stoic concepts that are once again in vogue today.
Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch Allgemeiner Teil
Authors: Faust Florian
Published: October 2024

Das Lehrbuch konzentriert sich auf die Kernbereiche der Rechtsgeschäftslehre: Willenserklärungen, Vertragsschluss, Rechts- und Geschäftsfähigkeit, Nichtigkeit von Rechtsgeschäften, Willensmängel, Boten und Stellvertreter:innen. Es wendet sich damit zum einen an Studienanfänger:innen, denen auf leicht verständliche Weise der für sie relevante Stoff aus dem Allgemeinen Teil des BGB vermittelt wird. Zum anderen ist das Buch auch für Studierende höherer Semester geeignet, die schnell die wichtigsten und „klausurträchtigsten“ Themen wiederholen wollen. Speziell für sie finden sich Hinweise auf Probleme, die im Zusammenspiel von Allgemeinem Teil sowie Schuld- und Sachenrecht auftreten. Viele Beispiele, Hinweise auf häufige Fehler und Tipps für richtige Formulierungen erleichtern das Verständnis und helfen bei der Prüfungsvorbereitung. Florian Faust ist Professor an der Bucerius Law School. Er hält ständig Lehrveranstaltungen im Allgemeinen Teil des BGB sowohl für Studienanfänger als auch für mittlere Semester und Examenskandidaten. Viele Hinweise von Teilnehmern an diesen Veranstaltungen sind in das Buch eingeflossen.
Herausforderungen und Potenziale vor Ort
Authors: Lämmlin Georg , Rebenstorf Hilke , Renneberg Ann-Christin
Published: October 2024

For the second time, the Social Science Research Institute of the EKD, with the participation of three Protestant churches and Fresh X, has examined the simple initial question "How are the local churches doing? The resulting typology of congregations shows which factors influence expectations of future development: The use of organisational development techniques and a focus on concrete goals linked to the local environment promise positive development, while certain difficult environmental factors and vacancies are associated with negative expectations of future development.

With contributions by
Ralf Dziewas | Veronika Eufinger | Hilke Rebenstorf | Ann-Christin Renneberg | Gunther Schendel | Patrick Todjeras | Miriam Zimmer
Die Stellung der Westsahara im internationalen Recht und die Auswirkungen auf das Völkervertragsrecht
Authors: Peters Dennis
Published: October 2024

Using UN documents analyzed for the first time and previously unpublished, the work presents the legal status of the "special case of Western Sahara" under international law and the resulting effects on international treaty law in a systematic, comprehensive and precise manner. On this basis, the work establishes principles, with particular attention to the European legal area and its case law, as to what extent natural resources of the territory can be exploited by third countries and how the right of self-determination of peoples works in this respect. The applicable legal framework has been examined with a particular focus on the provisions of international humanitarian law, which have yet received little ton o attention in this conflict.
The Relationship between Law and Biomedical Sciences in the Context of Article 53(a) of the European Patent Convention
Authors: Randakevičiūtė-Alpman Jurgita
Published: October 2024

Scientific progress has a growing influence on different fields of law. One of them is patent law, where scientific knowledge is highly important for making decisions on granting exclusive rights. In the European patent system, one of the most controversial issues in this regard is the application of Article 53(a) of the European Patent Convention, which provides that a patent shall not be granted for inventions for which commercial exploitation would be contrary to ordre public or morality. Article 53(a) is in particular relevant for biotechnological inventions for which patentability, in comparison to other technical fields, is more often disputed under this norm. A lack of consensus in the case law of the European Patent Office on the application of Article 53(a) to biotechnological inventions calls for finding an approach that would bring more clarity to this debate.
Refugee Welfare in Kenya: Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Ojulu Okello Abulogn
Published: October 2024

This chapter delves into the intricate terrain of refugee welfare in Kenya, exploring the challenges faced by refugees and the solutions devised to alleviate their plight. Kenya’s experience in hosting refugees offers a compelling narrative, shaped by conflicts, environmental disasters, and economic instability. Established camps like Dadaab and Kakuma strain resources and infrastructure, leading to tensions between refugees and host communities. Lack of documentation exacerbates vulnerability, impeding access to essential services and legal protections. Additionally, scarcity of clean water, insufficient food supply, inadequate shelter, and healthcare facilities compound refugee hardships. Despite government and international efforts, challenges persist, including donor fatigue and limited integration opportunities. This exploration of refugee welfare in Kenya highlights barriers and proposes solutions to inform future policy and practice, crucial for ensuring the dignity, security, and well-being of refugees both in Kenya and beyond.
The Role of Exercise Therapy in the Management of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Jeremy Ellapen Terry , M. Ntjana Brink , Ribeiro-Wagener Chenelle , Paul Yvonne
Published: October 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological pathology characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the midbrain. The disease can be either genetic or non-genetic in etiology. Parkinson’s disease is characterized by bradykinesia, muscular rigidity, resting tremors, and postural instability. Although empirical scientific evidence hints that regular exercise therapy diminishes the symptoms of PD, greater awareness of this therapeutic modality is needed to better manage the pathology. This chapter will describe the beneficial role of exercise therapy in the management of PD through recent clinical empirical evidence. Further the chapter will describe the general exercise plan for PD patient rehabilitation and an example of contemporary exercises prescribed to PD patients. Finally, a brief description of prospective research endeavors needed to understand the effects of exercise therapy in reversing the PD pathophysiology.
Perspective Chapter: Inclusive Scholarship Strategies in Africa – Harnessing Diversity for Educational Advancement
Authors: Ramaila Sam
Published: October 2024

This chapter explores inclusive scholarship strategies in Africa aimed at harnessing the continent’s diversity to promote educational advancement. Africa’s educational landscape is characterized by diverse cultures, languages, and historical contexts, presenting both challenges and opportunities for equitable access to higher education. The chapter begins by examining the historical evolution of scholarship programs in Africa, highlighting the impact of colonial legacies and post-independence educational reforms. It then delves into the current scholarship landscape, identifying barriers faced by marginalized groups such as gender disparities, socio-economic constraints, and geographical inequalities. Central to the discussion are strategies to enhance inclusivity in scholarship programs, including targeted initiatives for underrepresented groups, innovative application processes, and community-based approaches. The chapter emphasizes the benefits of diversity in scholarship recipients, fostering a dynamic learning environment that promotes cross-cultural understanding and social cohesion. Case studies of successful scholarship initiatives across the continent illustrate best practices and outcomes, showcasing models that can be scaled and adapted to different contexts. Policy recommendations are presented to support the development and implementation of inclusive scholarship strategies, emphasizing the roles of governments, non-governmental organizations, and international partners in fostering educational equity. By addressing these issues comprehensively, the chapter aims to provide insights and guidelines for stakeholders committed to advancing inclusion.
Production of Bioactive Phytochemicals from Ethnomedicinal Plant Endophytic Microorganisms
Authors: Makatiani Jacqueline K. , Kipkorir Lelmen Elijah
Published: October 2024

Ethnomedicinal plants are extensively explored for the discovery of new bioactive phytochemicals with applications in agrochemical, food and pharmaceutical industries. This could lead to extinction of some endangered plant species, hence the need for new phytochemical production strategies. Medicinal plant-associated microbial endophytes act as a promising eco-friendly source of high-valued bioactive phytochemicals. Numerous reports have focused on bioprospecting of endophytes for novel or existing biomolecules. However, investigations on novel production techniques of endophytes for high-value-low volume secondary metabolites are extremely limited. Moreover, the exploration of bacterial and actinomycete endophytes as phytochemical sources has not been fully elucidated. This chapter highlights the diversity, distribution, and bioactivity of phytochemicals in ethnomedicinal plant-associated endophytes isolated between 2014 and 2024. Additionally, recent advances in biotechnological exploration and strain improvement techniques such as genome editing of endophytes for enhanced in vitro production of bioactive secondary metabolites are discussed.
Different Generations: Different Work Values? Empirical Evidence from the German Socio-Economic Panel (GSOEP) 1984–2021
Authors: Schramm Florian , Schlese Michael
Published: October 2024

The chapter deals with the role of belonging to generations on the basis of the importance of professional success and turnover. The importance of professional success is a good indicator of the level of values, while turnover behavior is a good indicator at the behavioral level. The German Socio-economic Panel is used for the analysis. This panel study has been providing relevant representative data for Germany since 1984. The analysis distinguishes between cohort effects (generations), age effects, and period effects. The findings are clear: firstly, the concept of generation cannot be interpreted in terms of specific and lasting influences. Secondly, at the level of values, there is no distinct generation-specific pattern. The widespread assumptions in practice about change in the values of future generations cannot be confirmed. Thirdly, generation-specific effects can be identified at the level of behavior—in this case, fluctuation behavior. However, these are dominated by the strong age effects and supplemented by an interaction effect between generation and age group. Situational variables are also decisive for fluctuation.
Assessment of Food Preferences, Eating Practices, and Nutritional Status Among In-school Able and Disabled Adolescents of Ages 10 - 19 Years in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria
Authors: Olarewaju Sunday Olakunle , Faustina Komolafe Ijeoma , Faniyi Akinwale John , Sokan-Adeaga Adewale Allen
Published: October 2024

Background: Malnutrition affects school-age children's health, growth, and academic performance. Adolescents often consume unhealthy fast foods and follow crash diets influenced by peers, media, and cultural norms. Adolescents with disabilities, including physical, intellectual, sensory, developmental, and mental health disabilities, may face additional challenges in accessing and maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet as they may face additional barriers. Understanding the unique needs and challenges faced by adolescents with disabilities is crucial in promoting their overall health and well-being. Objectives: The study aimed to compare the nutritional status of able and disabled adolescents in Government Vocational and Technical College and Niger State School of Special Education in Minna, as well as their food preferences, eating practices, and the factors affecting their nutritional status. Methods: The study used a cross-sectional design, administering 400 questionnaires to disabled and able students. The responses were 100% collected using self-administered structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed, and results were presented utilizing tables and figures, with a statistical significance level set at P < 0.05. The IBM statistical product and service solutions (IBM SPSS statistics), version 27.0 software was employed for data analysis to explore and understand the food preferences, eating practices, and nutritional status of in-school adolescents with disabilities in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria. This approach allowed for a comprehensive assessment of the diverse factors influencing the dietary habits and nutritional well-being of adolescents with disabilities in the study. Results: The study involved 400 participants, with 12.8% aged over 12 years, 50.3% aged 12 - 15 years, and 37.0% above 15 years. Females made up 51.0% of the participants. About 40% of disabled participants had inadequate dietary patterns, compared to 10% of able participants. There was a significant difference in the distribution of BMI groups between the able and disabled subjects (x2 = 26.984, df = 3, P = 0.000). Socio-demographic of the participants based on age and gender showed a significant association with the nutritional status of able adolescents at (χ2 = 44.593, P = 0.000) and (χ2 = 4.650, P = 0.031) respectively and among disabled at (χ2 = 18.303, P = 0.000) and (χ2 = 23.925, P = 0.000) respectively. Conclusions: The study revealed disabled adolescents often skip meals, consume fast foods, and have poor dietary habits. Interventions like education and increased access to healthy food options are needed.
Juridical Analysis of State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN) with Bankruptcy Status
Authors: Zulfahmi Yusuf
Published: October 2024

Bankrupt BUMN is not as simple as bankruptcy of a person or other legal entity, because this BUMN has state assets whose management must involve state intervention. Government intervention is proven by the presence of the Minister of Finance as CFO and majority owner of BUMN and the Minister of BUMN as director and supervisor of BUMN activities, apart from that there are supporting regulations, namely the KN Law, PN Law and Constitutional Court Decision No. 62/PUU-XI/2013 which notes that wealth separated from BUMN remains state wealth. If a state company is bankrupted by its own debtor, the finance minister has the largest say in the state-owned bankruptcy application than the GMS, in Peru the finance minister has the highest power and is the only party. who can file bankruptcy. The legal consequence of BUMN bankruptcy is that a public confiscation is carried out, but first the BUMN must go through a process of paying state assets in accordance with Minister of Finance Regulation No. 50/PMK.06/2014 because BUMN goods are still considered state-owned goods.
The Analysis of World Trade Organization Panel Decision of Indonesia Measures Relating to Raw Materials
Authors: Daffa Brilliandana Pratama
Published: October 2024

European Union has requested a panel regarding Indonesia's restriction of exports and downstreaming of raw materials. According to the European Union, Indonesia's export and downstream policies violate World Trade Organization (WTO) provisions, namely Article XI:1 of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) 1994. In the panel report, the World Trade Organization Dispute Settlement Body (WTO DSB) decided that Indonesia had been proven to have violated these WTO provisions. This thesis examines whether the WTO's ruling on Indonesia's restrictions on raw materials is justified and explores Indonesia's arguments in Appellate Body with the European Union regarding restrictions on nickel ore exports and downstreaming. The research methodology involves normative legal research, analyzing primary legal sources like legislation and secondary sources such as textbooks and case studies. The study delves into Indonesia's challenges in defending its policies at the WTO's Appellate Body. The primary research object is Indonesia's Measures relating to Raw Materials, particularly nickel ore, and relevant agreements like GATT 1994. Legal materials include Indonesian regulations on exports and GATT 1994, while secondary sources encompass statutory regulations, scientific journals, and related literature. The data collection method relies on library research. Using a qualitative approach, the thesis seeks a deep understanding of the core issues. Analytical methods include statutory interpretation, case studies, and grounded theory. The research finds Indonesia's measures non-compliant with GATT 1994 but suggests leveraging Article XXI, the Security Exception, as a strategic defense in the Appellate Body.
Harnessing Indigenous Knowledge for Effective Butterfly Conservation: Evidence from Community Engagement in the Ebo Forest Reserve, Littoral Region, Cameroon
Authors: Tataw Guilen-Noel Nghokapin , Maurice Melle Ekane , Bumtu Kamah Pascal , Nkwatoh Athanasius Fuashi , Nuvadga Levai Fofung , Lemlack Londe Roland , Keyanghafeh Nkwetefie Daisy , Yengeh  Mboza Jerry Clinton
Published: October 2024

Aim: This study investigates the role of indigenous knowledge in butterfly conservation within the Ebo Forest Reserve, Littoral Region, Cameroon. Pollinators, particularly butterflies, are critical for ecosystem health, yet they face significant declines due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change.
Methods: Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, local communities in Iboti and Lognanga were engaged to assess their knowledge, perceptions, and contributions to butterfly conservation. The research was conducted in communities adjacent to the Ebo Forest Reserve, Cameroon, between January and July 2024. The majority of the respondents (59%) were from the Iboti community, while 41% were from the Lognanga community. The survey included questions about ecological significance, perceived threats, and cultural associations related to butterflies. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics and inferential statistics to evaluate the relationships between demographic factors and attitudes toward butterflies.
Results: The study found that while community members possess a general awareness of butterfly presence, specific ecological knowledge, such as dietary preferences, is limited. A majority (68%) frequently observe butterflies, and 83% have noted recent population changes, with most perceiving stability in butterfly numbers. Despite high interest in conservation initiatives (81.9%), significant barriers exist, including limited resources and lack of awareness about conservation efforts.
Conclusion: Local ecological knowledge should be integrated into conservation strategies, with emphasize on community-led initiatives to enhance butterfly conservation in the Ebo Forest Reserve.
Recommendation: To enhance butterfly conservation efforts in the Ebo Forest Reserve, it is crucial to develop and implement community-led educational programs that focus on indigenous knowledge and ecological practices.
Global Marine Ranching Research: Progress and Trends through Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Ma Yunsheng , Si Kaixi , Xie Yifan , Liang Zhengjie , Wu Jiaming , Zhang Dapeng , Zhang Yihao , Cai Rongjie
Published: October 2024

With the increasing prominence of pollution issues in offshore waters, marine ranching plays a crucial role in restoring marine ecosystems and ensuring the sustainable use of fishery resources. This paper provides a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of global marine ranching research. The study indicates that policy is the primary driver of the industry's development. It also reveals that the low level of interconnectivity between China and other major developing countries, as well as cooperation between governmental and research institutions in the area of marine ranching. In light of these considerations, prospective strategies for the future evolution of marine ranching can be formulated with a view to optimising and enhancing the seedling production system, and to forecasting changes in marine ranching in conjunction with the application of modern computing techniques and the field of remote sensing.
Pendampingan One Day One Surah Sebelum Belajar Siswa SMAN 3 Palangka Raya
Authors: Yanti Febry , Azis Abdul , Norsiyah Norsiyah
Published: October 2024

The Qur'an serves as the primary guide for Muslims, providing guidance and values that need to be internalized in daily life. Reading skills of the Qur'an are very important; however, many students at SMAN 3 Palangka Raya still face difficulties in reading fluently. The aim of this community service is to enhance the students' ability to read the Qur'an through memorizing surahs that are recited before starting lessons via the One Day One Surah program. This program encourages students to read one surah every day, allowing them to master 30 surahs in a month. The method used in this service is Service Learning (SL), which is an approach based on direct experience. The results of this service indicate a significant improvement in students' Qur'an reading abilities after the One Day One Surah assistance was implemented. This is evidenced by the post-test data from class XI-9 obtained after the program was conducted, which shows that the number of students able to recite 22 surahs increased from 15 students, while those who could only recite 15 surahs decreased to 5 students. Furthermore, there was an increase in surah memorization in class XI-10, with data showing that the number of students able to recite 22 surahs rose to 16 students, while those who could only recite 15 surahs decreased to 3 students.