bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spiritual Hermaphroditism or Thinking with the Androgynous Soul
Authors: Mukuka Tarcisius
Published: October 2024

“Oedipus complex and spiritual intelligence: Are men less spiritual than women? Part I” examined Sigmund Freud’s Oedipus complex and Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex in the light of male spiritual intelligence. In it, we argued that men are likely to be less spiritually intelligent than women. We extrapolated the findings of the Pew Research Center 2016 Report which found that women were generally ― but not essentially or universally ― more religious than men. Part II argues that patriarchy and toxic masculinity, have made men less spiritually intelligent by canonising the alpha male. The result is that most men are unable to realise their full potential as created imago Dei or spiritual hermaphrodites. Disavowing patriarchalism enables them to embrace their androgyneity. Utilising the example of South African athlete, Caster Mokgadi Semenya, we argue that wherever we find ourselves on the continuum between the poles of male and female, even as inter-sex, we are all called to realise our spiritual hermaphroditism. In a nutshell, Part II is an invitation to think with the androgynous soul. Methodologically, we asked respondents to answer four questions on spiritual intelligence and gender fluidity. The theoretical framework chosen for both Part I and Part II was Sigmund Freud’s Oedipus complex, interpreted as a power drive in men to dethrone their father. We used online and offline surveys to generate the state of public opinion on the subject in academia. As purposive sampling, the number of returned questionnaires was inconsequential. Part II’s objective is to adumbrate a new theory of human sexuality called spiritual hermaphroditism, which would act as an antidote to toxic masculinity. Part II also required its own methodology, a literary-linguistic-syntactic analysis and hermeneutics of suspicion of Gen 1:26‒28 and 2:7, which was not dependent on informants’ views but addressed spiritual hermaphroditism.
The Teacher’s Perspective on the Challenges of Implementing Quality Early Childhood Education in Their Classroom in The Batticaloa District, Sri Lanka.
Authors: Balasundaram Soba
Published: October 2024

Early childhood education plays an important impact in a child’s future achievement and well-being at the age of three to five years. Therefore, preschool teachers have a crucial responsibility in establishing and maintaining the standards of quality early childhood education in their organizations. They have multiple roles, including being facilitators of learning, observers and assessors of children’s development, and advocates for ensuring children’s learning and well-being throughout the day. This research aims to explore the challenges encountered by preschool teachers in executing classroom activities in the Batticaloa district of Sri Lanka. The research will use a mixed-method approach, collecting both quantitative and qualitative data through a survey conducted with 22 preschool teachers. The research was conducted in the Eastern province of Sri Lanka, and the survey participants were selected from a random sample of teachers working in preschools located in Manmunai Southwest Education / D. S Division, Batticaloa district. In this research, several challenges have been identified in executing their classroom activities including inadequate technological aids, no standard curriculum, a lack of training programs and children-related challenges. Regarding these challenges, the study revealed that the government and administrators provided some support to preschool teachers. However, due to insufficient support for all preschool teachers, they continue to face challenges in executing their classroom activities. Thus, this research recommended that technological aids, be provided, designing a standard curriculum, and a National Preschool Teachers’ Training program for all preschools. This will support teachers to ensure quality teaching and children can receive quality early childhood education in the Batticaloa District of Sri Lanka.
Balancing the Risks Associated with Artificial Intelligence in Medical and Dental Sciences
Authors: Qamar Dr Wajiha
Published: October 2024

This article delves into the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on medical and dental sciences, with a focus on how it transforms diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient care. As healthcare develops very quickly due to innovations in technology, there is a pressing need to modernize conventional procedures and establish new standards. However, incorporating AI poses multiple challenges. The quality and diversity of data used in AI algorithms is critical, as skewed results and inequitable healthcare delivery may aggravate health inequities. Ethical instances, like patient consent and data security, compound issues even more. AI technologies frequently operate as “black boxes,” making decision-making processes opaque and could undermine confidence among medical professionals. Effective integration of AI tools is critical; inadequate implementation may disrupt clinical operations and enhance workloads. The paper offers practical solutions to these challenges, such as boosting data diversity, strengthening AI transparency, and adopting strong ethical standards. Ongoing evaluation and adaption of AI technology is essential to ensure its reliability and security. Furthermore, putting resources into employee training and developing cost-effective AI solutions is critical for further adoption. Addressing these concerns would allow the healthcare industry to fully utilize AI’s promise while preserving ethical and equitable practices.
An Information-Theoretic Approach for Multivariate Skew Laplace Normal Distributions
Authors: Quaez Uday Jabbar
Published: October 2024

Due to its flexibility, the skew distributions (univariate and multivariate) have received widespread attention over the last two decades because they're become widely used in the modelling and analysis of skewed data sets. The main goal of this paper is to introduce asymptotic expressions for entropy of multivariate skew Laplace normal distribution to deal with the issue by providing a flexible model for modeling skewness and heavy tiredness simultaneously. Thus, we extend this study to the class of mixture model of these distributions. In addition, upper and lower bounds of Rényi entropy of mixture model are found, by using generalized HӦlder’s inequality and some properties of multinomial theorem.. Finally, we give a real data examples to illustrate the behavior of information. A simulation study and a real data example, are also provided to illustrate the information behavior of MSLN  and MMSLN distributions for modeling data sets in multivariate settings
Influence Air Temperature and Precipitation on Climate Change in Baghdad City
Authors: A Ghufran Hassoon , Hassan Ahmed S.
Published: October 2024

Changes in climate indicate both continuity and variability in the regime from year to year. Especially for air temperature (AT) and precipitation in recent years, the climate system has changed very rapidly since the Industrial Revolution. The European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF), which recently updated the ERA-5 version, was the main source of data and made available as a monthly dataset. The study period of 30 years has been divided into 3 periods: Its results were that AT in the first period had begun to rise linearly(0.18K) while on the contrary for precipitation they decreased significantly(-0.42mm/day), while the second period increased the rise in AT(0.20K) with an increase in precipitation decrease(-0.43mm/day), and 2010 was the year in which AT were recorded the most as(299k) a result of increasing gas emissions and human activity, and this made it the least year for precipitation(4.2mm/day), and the third period was also increasing AT (0.28k)with a decrease in precipitation rates(-0.05mm/day), except 2018 which was a rainy year with a high precipitation rate as(10.3mm/day) a result of sandstorms and thunderstorms in it.
Leukemia Detection using Machine Learning Algorithms: Current trends and future directions
Authors: A. Maryoosh Amal , Pashazadeh Saeid
Published: October 2024

The process of medical diagnosis of leukemia cases is a complex process and requires diligent efforts. It is done by examining samples under a microscope and distinguishing the number, shape, size, and morphological features of white blood cells. This process takes a long time to predict leukemia. The professional skills and experience of the pathologist may also influence this procedure as a large number of overlapping structures and conditions, distractions, fatigue, and limitations in the human visual system can lead to an inappropriate diagnosis. Machine and deep learning approaches have been found to be effective strategies for enhancing the precision and efficiency of diagnosis and classification of medical images, including those of microscopic blood cells. In this paper, we will review the recent studies of leukemia detection and/or classification in the period of (2015 - 2023) in machine and deep learning and the combining of them. The review of these schemes is carried out in a systematic manner. In order to achieve the desired objective, segmentation schemes can be classified into four main categories: supervised machine learning techniques, unsupervised machine learning techniques, deep learning approaches, and traditional image processing techniques. Classification approaches can be categorized into three main groups: classical machine learning, deep learning, and a combination of both. CNN-based categorization systems can be further classified into three categories: conventional CNN, transfer learning, and additional developments in CNN. This paper also provides a concise analysis of these strategies and their significance in the categorization of leukemia. Ultimately, a comprehensive examination is conducted to elucidate the current state of research in this particular domain.
Smart Irrigation System Using Soil Moisture Prediction with Deep CNN for Various Soil Types
Authors:   Department of Computer Science and Engineering, SRM Institiute of Science and Technology, Chennai, India, S. K. B. Sangeetha , Immanuel Rajeshwari Rajesh ,   School of Computing, Veltech R&D Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, India, Mathivanan Sandeep Kumar ,   School of Computer Science and Engineering, Galgotias University, Greater Noida,203201, India, Jayagopal Prabhu ,   School of Computer Science Engineering and Information Systems, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore,632014, India, Rajendran Sukumar ,   School of Computing Science Engineering and Artificial Intelligence, VIT Bhopal University, Madhya Pradesh – 466114, India, Mallik Saurav ,   Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T H Chan School of Public Health and Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, The University of Arizona, USA, Li Aimin ,   School of Computer Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Technology, China
Published: October 2024

Soil moisture sensing plays a crucial role in agriculture as it directly impacts plant growth and can significantly enhance crop productivity. With the advent of technology, agriculture applications have undergone a revolution, enabling more advanced and efficient practices. One such advancement is the use of soil moisture sensors, which provide valuable information about the current water level of the soil, including whether it is dry, wet, or excessively saturated. These sensors have become indispensable tools for farmers and growers, empowering them to make informed decisions regarding irrigation schedules, water management strategies, and overall crop health. By accurately assessing soil moisture levels, farmers can optimize water usage, prevent water stress or overwatering, and promote healthier plant development, ultimately leading to improved yields and sustainability in agriculture. The objective of the proposed study is to investigate the effective soil moisture sensors by considering three sensors and an automated system for watering the soil for agriculture. A comparative analysis is performed for different commercial off-the-shelf soil moisture sensors in cost, accuracy, durability, and corrosion resistance. Secondly, this study further gives soil moisture reading as data input to the Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) to classify whether water is required or not for the soil at a particular temperature which would help to conserve water and develop agriculture. An automated system which can help the farmer for irrigation and cultivation of the soil obtained accuracy as 95.23%.
Simultaneous analysis of certain tree-nut allergens in cookies by LC-MS/MS
Authors: Tran Trung Thanh , Nguyen Thi Hong Ngoc , Bui Cao Tien , Phung Cong Ly , Kieu Van Anh , Nguyen Huu Vo , Dang Thi Ngoc Lan ,   National Institute for Food Control, Hanoi, Vietnam,   National Institute for Food Control, Hanoi, Vietnam,   National Institute for Food Control, Hanoi, Vietnam,   National Institute for Food Control, Hanoi, Vietnam,   National Institute for Food Control, Hanoi, Vietnam,   Hanoi University of Pharmacy, Hanoi, Vietnam,   Hanoi University of Pharmacy, Hanoi, Vietnam
Published: October 2024

In this study, four tree-nut allergens were identified using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) with a reverse-phase XSelect HSS C18 SB column (100 mm x 2.1 mm, 3.5 µm) and corresponding guard column. The gradient solvent program employed 0.1% formic acid in water and 0.1% formic acid in acetonitrile, with a flow rate of 0.5 mL/min, a positive ion electrospray ionization (ESI+) source, and a multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. The method was validated following the guidelines of AOAC International. Results showed that the method had good specificity, with calibration curves constructed in the concentration ranges of 30.5 - 1220 µg/g for almonds, 102 - 4080 µg/g for cashews, 128 - 5120 µg/g for hazelnuts, and 122 - 4880 µg/g for pistachios. Limits of detection were 9 µg/g for almonds, 30.6 µg/g for cashews, 38.4 µg/g for hazelnuts, and 36.6 µg/g for pistachios, while limits of quantification were 30.5 µg/g for almonds, 102 µg/g for cashews, 128 µg/g for hazelnuts, and 122 µg/g for pistachios. The repeatability and accuracy of the method met AOAC requirements. The method was used to analyze the content of four groups of nut allergens (almond, cashew, hazelnut, and pistachio) in ten cookie samples from the Hanoi area. Results indicated that three samples contained undeclared allergens on the food labels.
Determination of some indicator polychlorinated biphenyls (I-PCBs) in foods by gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS)
Authors: Luu Thi Huyen Trang , Nguyen Thi Phuong Mai , Nguyen Thi Hai Anh , Dang Thi Ngoc Lan , Ha Tran Hung , Vu Anh Phuong ,   National Institute for Food Control, Hanoi, Vietnam,   Hanoi University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam,   Hanoi University of Pharmacy, Hanoi, Vietnam,   Hanoi University of Pharmacy, Hanoi, Vietnam,   Poison Control Center, Bach Mai Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam,   Poison Control Center, Bach Mai Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
Published: October 2024

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are toxic chemicals that persist in the environment and can accumulate in the food chain. The study was conducted with the aim of developing a method to determine the content of 6 I-PCBs compounds by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) combined with Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged and Safe (QuEChERS) technique for sample treatment. The sample was extracted with acetonitrile (ACN) solvent and cleaned with PSA adsorbent. The cleaned extract was analyzed on a GCMS/MS system with a DB-5MS column (30 m × 0.25 mm × 0.25 µm). The method had good specificity, the linear range was established in the range of 1.5-40 ng/g, the correlation coefficient R2 > 0.999. The method recovery was 74.5-102.7% and the relative standard deviation (RSD%) ranged from 0.9-6.20% for milk and meat samples. The method's limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) for 6 I-PCBs were 0.5 ng/g and 1.5 ng/g, respectively. The method was applied to analyze the content of 6 I-PCBs in 40 food samples (meat and meat products, milk and dairy products) randomly purchased in Hanoi. The results showed that in all 40 analyzed samples, 1 powdered milk sample detected PCB-28 and PCB- 101, the total content of I-PCBs was 13.0 ng/g fat lower than the European regulations.
Determination of theanine in green tea, green tea-based beverages, and dietary supplements by high performance liquid chromatography using orthophthalaldehyd (OPA) derivation
Authors: Vuong Quynh Hoa , Mac Thi Thanh Hoa , Nguyen Thanh Danh , Nguyen Van Khoa , Nguyen Thi Hoang Lan , Cao Cong Khanh , Nguyen Quang Hung ,   National Institute for Food Control, Hanoi, Vietnam,   National Institute for Food Control, Hanoi, Vietnam,   Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Hanoi, Vietnam,   National Institute for Food Control, Hanoi, Vietnam,   Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Hanoi, Vietnam,   National Institute for Food Control, Hanoi, Vietnam,   National Institute for Food Control, Hanoi, Vietnam
Published: October 2024

Theanine is a natural amino acid abundant in green tea and is added to green tea-based beverages and health supplements containing green tea extract. In this study, a method for analyzing theanine using HPLC with o-phthalaldehyde (OPA) derivatization has been developed and validated. Theanine was extracted from the sample using water and then derivatized with OPA reagent, then chromatographically separated on a Xbridge C18 column (250 mm × 4.6 mm; 5 µm), with a mobile phase consisting of 20 mM ammonium acetate and methanol in a gradient program. Fluorescence detector was used with an excitation wavelength of 345 nm and an emission wavelength of 455 nm. The method demonstrated good specificity, recovery and accuracy required by AOAC. The limits of detection and quantification were 3.0 µg/g and 10.0 µg/g, respectively. This method has been applied to analyze the theanine content in tea samples, beverages, and health supplements containing green tea extract at the National Institute for Food Control.
Building A Sharia Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Through Halal Value Chain for MSMEs
Authors: Zahro Umi Chabibatus
Published: October 2024

Independent entrepreneurs promise certain material benefits if the entrepreneur succeeds in running the business. Sharia business and economic patterns are still a big challenge and opportunity to be implemented in Indonesia. Creating a sharia-based entrepreneurial ecosystem is very important for MSME players to be aware of so that they can optimize the business they run according to Islamic law and God's provisions. This halal value chain is a sharia economic sector that plays an important role in economic progress in Indonesia. However, for Indonesia, halal is an economic potential that has not been exploited optimally. One thing that supports building a sharia entrepreneurial ecosystem and is able to increase sales value is by carrying out halal certification on the products it makes. The Community-Based Empowerment Partner in this activity is UMKM Wijayakusuma Sejati assisted by Jatisawit Village Bumiayu Brebes. The aim of this service is (1) to provide partner knowledge in creating a sharia-based entrepreneurial ecosystem and mentality, (2) to provide production and marketing knowledge, (3) to provide business capital management competence, (4) to provide knowledge about production and marketing, management competence business capital, bookkeeping and preparation of financial reports, and (5) facilitating halal certification for Wijayakusuma Sejati MSME products. This training is needed for traders to create a sharia entrepreneurial mentality and halal certification based on the halal value chain so they are able to manage their business well, create a brand image for their products, and increase sales significantly.
Pendampingan Peningkatan Usaha Jamu Tradisional Melalui Penerapaan Teknologi Tepat Guna Di Desa Medan Krio
Authors: Sipahutar Herbert , Panggabean Deo Demonta , Doloksaribu Maryati Evivani , Effiyanti Tri , Panggabean Jonny Haratua , Harahap Mukti Hamjah , Syah Dedy Husrizal
Published: October 2024

Kegiatan pengabdian pada masyarakat ini dilaksanakan di Desa Medan Krio Kecamatan Sunggal Kabupaten Deli Serdang. Yang menjadi mitra adalah industri rumah tangga yaitu usaha jamu tradisional yang dikelola Ibu Deli Sandra. Permasalahan yang dihadapi mitra diantaranya yaitu teknologi pengolahan masih tradisional sehingga mitra mengalami kesulitan dalam memenuhi kuantitas Produksi jamu yang dibutuhkan dalam waktu singkat, khususnya teknologi dalam pemerasan dan penggiling bahan baku, dan minimnya pengetahuan mitra dalam pencatatan pembukuan usaha yang baik. Sehubungan dengan permasalahan yang dihadapi mitra, pada program pengabdian kepada masyarakat ini dilakukan dengan pendampingan peningkatan usaha jamu melalui transfer alat/mesin penggiling bahan baku pembuatan jamu dan pelatihan pembukuan. Metode yang digunakan untuk mencapai tujuan kegiatan pengabdian ini adalah metode pendampingan, praktik dan pelatihan. Kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat ini telah menghasilkan teknologi tepat guna berupa 1 unit mesin penggiling bahan baku jamu, buku kas untuk pembukuan usaha, peningkatan produksi dan keterampilan menulis pembukuan usaha.
Edukasi Pemanfaatan Minyak Jelantah Dan Daun Kelor Menjadi Sabun Batang Sebagai Upaya Pencegahan Paparan Logam Berat Dari Pewarna Sintetis Dan Pestisida di Desa Tlingsing, Cawas, Klaten
Authors: Noviana Dewi
Published: October 2024

Oxidative stress induced in cells by the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a toxic effect of heavy metals that exceed the threshold if they enter the body and can cause health threats. Apart from heavy metals that can cause oxidative stress are pesticides. The impact of oxidative stress will disrupt health because it has damaging properties on proteins, DNA and lipids. Exposure to heavy metals by workers and pesticides by farmers through skin contact, inhalation or respiration, to reduce the impact of inhalation or contact on the skin, in this service workers and farmers are given PHBS education, and one of them is by maintaining cleanliness after contact with colors or pesticides by means of wash your hands using soap. Community service is provided through counseling methods, health checks in the form of MCU, and making Moringa leaf soap which contains antioxidants
Improving SME Performance Through the Utilization of Usable Digital Technology in the Gunung Kawi Area, Wonosari, Malang
Authors: Winarno Agung , Aini Desti Nur
Published: October 2024

The development of digital technology has changed the way society consumes information and makes decisions, including in the tourism sector and other related fields, including small and medium enterprises (SMEs) around the tourist areas. The Mount Kawi area, known for its religious tourism, natural beauty, and cultural heritage, seems to continue to attract visitors even though it has not fully recovered as it was before the Covid-19 pandemic. This also impacts the development of the performance of existing SMEs. This community service aims to introduce user-friendly digital marketing technology to small and medium enterprises (SMEs), so they do not have to rely solely on the local market. The approach used is the initiation model, which involves stages of introduction, demonstration, evaluation, improvement, and reinforcement. The participants of the event consisted of 20 SMEs, ranging from batik to various types of food. The instruments for success used are observation sheets and portfolios. The results of the activities show an increase in digital knowledge among SMEs, particularly in utilizing social media for product content that supports online marketing strategies, as well as the ability to create content and operate digital technology based on market feasibility. The recommendation from this community service activity is the need for assistance in certifying their products to enhance consumer trust.
Peningkatan Semangat Berwirausaha Pada Paguyuban Umkm “Aku Bisa” Di Kota Semarang
Authors: Yani Tri Endang Yani , Wibisono Totok Wibisono , Roestanto Anantya Roestanto , Sujito Sujito
Published: October 2024

Abstract: In Krobokan Village, West Semarang, there is a Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Association (MSMEs)”AKU BISA”. This asssociation accommodates approximately 50 MSMEs with various types of productss produced, including culinary to handycraft. The problem faced by this association is that their business has not developed since at was pioneered until now. This is due to the lack of understanding of entrepreurship and the lack of entrepreneurial spirit. The purpose of Community Service is to provide knowledge about entrepreneurship and motivate MSMEs to be more enthusiastic in running their businesses. The method of implementing community service activities is the lecture and discussion method. Meamwhile, the implementation of community service activities in March – May 2024. After the counseling was carried out, there was an increase in knowledge and understanding of entrepreneurship among the participants, understanding and understanding the success factors of a business and there was a positive change in behavior, namely being more enthusiastic in entrepreneurship.
 
Keywords: Entrepreneurship, Motivation, Counselling, Skills technology
INTERNATIONAL LAW AND THE PEACEFUL SETTLEMENT OF DISPUTES
Authors: Tuffuor Kwadwo Addo Tuffuor , Korantema Stella Korantema , Yin Elijah Tukwariba Yin
Published: October 2024

International law functions principally in maintaining the fabric of international relations, which reflects the overriding desire by states to resort to a supra-national power of legal mechanisms to resolve disputes that may arise among them on territorial claims without force and in a peaceful manner. The United Nations (UN), its Security Council, and its judicial organ - the International Court of Justice (ICJ) - were established after the Second World War primarily to achieve international peace and security. Consequently, the Constitutive Charter of the UN placed an obligation on member-states to resolve all disputes in a peaceful manner which was ostensibly geared towards forestalling the occurrence of another world war. Under the auspices of the UN, the world has achieved a comprehensive body of international law and dispute resolution mechanisms, some of which have helped to resolve disputes that would have otherwise threatened international peace and security. Despite this, scholars have paid less attention to how international law and the implementing agencies of the UN have contributed to global dispute settlement. This paper examines the significance of international law and its implementing agencies in the peaceful settlement of disputes. We argue that international law and its implementation agencies provide an effective framework for peaceful dispute settlement among nations, promoting global security and cooperation.
ADOPTING A STRICT LIABILITY APPROACH TOWARD GENOCIDE
Authors: Bidzakin Elizabeth Kanburi Bidzakin
Published: October 2024

The Genocide Convention lists intent as a critical element that must be proven to secure convictions for genocide. Many defendants have been acquitted or convicted of lesser crimes due to the difficulty in proving genocidal intent. The argument presented in this paper is that the large-scale negative impact of genocide on humanity should be considered when defining its scope in penal legislation. A fortiori, the crime of genocide should be given similar consideration to other crimes that have been classified as strict liability crimes due to their severity and cost to society. Intent as an element should, therefore, be deduced from the general purpose of the perpetrator’s acts. Although the strict legality principle is not perfect and has some flaws, it is still the most just, effective, coherent, persuasive, and proper reading of the genocide convention. The goal here is to contribute to the conversation on the limitations of genocidal intent to the effectiveness of the enforcement of the crime of genocide in international criminal law.
GHANA’S REGULATORY FRAMEWORK AND SUSTAINABILITY IN THE MINING SECTOR
Authors: Asumda David Asumda , Situma Francis Situma , Muigua Kariuki Muigua
Published: October 2024

The mining sector in Ghana predates independence and has, over the years, contributed significantly to Ghana’s socio-economic development through revenue generation, employment creation and increase in foreign direct investments. This can be attributed largely to the institution of comprehensive and attractive legal, fiscal and institutional frameworks by the Ghanaian Government, which have helped to attract investments into the mining industry. Nonetheless, lack of effective revenue mobilization, generous tax incentives, damaging environmental effects, and destruction of livelihoods of host communities, especially due to illegal mining activities, remain major challenges. Most of the problems associated with mining in Ghana are due mainly to a weak mining regulatory framework. Ghana has enacted the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703) (the Minerals and Mining Act), as amended in 2010, 2015, and 2019, as the basic law that regulates the mining sector, to improve the fiscal regime and to ensure effective regulation and sustainability of the mining industry. Even though Act 703 has been amended twice, and the Government has proposed a third amendment, previous amendments focused on “non-essential” areas, without special focus on the management of the environment for sustainability in the mining sector. Making the mining industry sustainable seems to have been addressed as an incidental. The Minerals and Mining Act has not undergone any major amendments to align it with regional frameworks, reflect international best practices and address sustainability challenges in the mining sector in Ghana. This paper reviews the key provisions of the Minerals and Mining Act, with a special focus on how the same facilitates environmental management for sustainability in the mining sector.
Comparative Study of Interfacial and Conventional Techniques for Nanosilica Incorporation in Natural Rubber Latex-Based Composites with Varied TEOS Content
Authors: Tuffrey Jindee , Wichianchom Anuchit , Boonsong Kwanruethai
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the preparation of natural rubber latex (NRL) composites with varying nanosilica contents of 5, 15, 30, and 45 phr, using both interfacial and conventional mixing techniques. Analysis focused on viscosity, plasticity, morphology, and FTIR spectra to evaluate the impact of these methods on composite properties. The interfacial techniquemaintained lower viscosity values, indicating better latex stability, and achieved higher silica yields and conversion rates (94 - 99%) at elevated TEOS contents. Plasticity analysis revealed that the interfacial method produced more uniform and stable plasticity values, suggesting improved resistance to oxidation and enhanced mechanical properties. SEM and FTIR analyses confirmed superior dispersion with the interfacial technique, especially at higher silica contents. These findings highlight the efficacy of the interfacial technique in optimizing the properties of NRL composites, making it a promising approach for advanced material applications.
HIGHLIGHTS

Analysis of interfacial and conventional mixing techniques reveals their impact on NRL composite properties, demonstrating the interfacial method's superior stability, silica dispersion, and enhanced mechanical properties.
The interfacial method maintains lower, stable viscosity, prevents latex destabilization, achieves higher silica yields, and ensures economic and sustainable production of high-quality composites.
SEM and FTIR analyses confirm better silica dispersion and morphology with the interfacial method, enhancing composite performance, durability, and informing industrial applications and future research directions.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
Does an Attendance-Credit Increase Medical Students’ Attendance in In-class Lectures and Performance in Pharmacology and What is the Correlation Between Class Attendance and Performance on Pharmacology Exams?
Authors: Paudel Keshab Raj , Panta R , Diaz L , Johnson G , Thapa S
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT

Objectives
This study aimed to find out the effect of an attendance-credit on class attendance and performance on Pharmacology exams, and analyze a correlation between class attendance and performance on Pharmacology exams.

Methods
A total of 182 students from a period of two years, January 2017 to December 2018, were enrolled in the study. Ethical clearance was obtained from the institutional review board. Attendance of the first group of students was credited whereas the attendance of the second group of students was not credited. Lecture materials were made available and downloadable to the students from the beginning of the semester until the end of final exams, irrespective of their class attendance. Assessment items were single response multiple-choice questions built around clinical vignettes. Pearson correlation and Chi-Square (χ2) tests were used as tests of significance. The level of significance was considered at P-value ≤0.05.

Results
Eighty seven percent (87%) of students attended more than 70% of lectures when class attendance was credited whereas only 44% of students attended more than 70% of lectures when the attendance was not credited. The average of ‘credited class attendance’ was 87% vs 61% for ‘non-credited class attendance’ (P<0.001). The correlation between academic score and ‘credited class attendance’ was significant (r= 0.240, df= 90, r for df 90 at P=0.05 is 0.205), and the correlation between academic score and ‘non-credited class attendance’ was stronger (r= 0.368, df= 88, r for df 80 at P=0.01 is 0.283) than for credited attendance.

Conclusion
Provided that lecture materials are available and downloadable from the beginning until the end of the semester to the medical students, an attendance-credit, an external motivation, increased the class attendance significantly in the lectures. However, it did not increase the performance on Pharmacology exams accordingly.  The class attendance had a significantly positive correlation with the performance on Pharmacology exams. So, present study concludes that students who attend the lectures irrespective of the external motivation perform significantly higher on the exams, and it has a strong positive linear correlation.
Matsuda Koichiro, Gisei no ronri jiyū no fuan ― kindai Nihon seiji shisō-ron
Authors: Takeharu Ōkubo
Published: October 2024

Matsuda Koichiro, Gisei no ronri jiyū no fuan ― kindai Nihon seiji shisō-ron [La lógica de la ficción Inquietud de la libertad ― Teoría del pensamiento político japonés moderno]La sección “Otras voces, otros ámbitos” está dedicada a reseñas de libros en lenguas no habladas en las Américas y en Europa Occidental, es decir, en cualquier lengua de uso corriente en África y Asia, fuera del español, el inglés, el francés, el italiano o el alemán. Tiene un doble objetivo: por un lado, familiarizar a lectores/as de América Latina con debates de historia intelectual en árabe, ruso (para Asia central), chino, japonés u otras lenguas de los mundos académicos africanos y asiáticos; por el otro, sugerir libros para la traducción al español. Con este propósito, nuestra idea es contactar a especialistas de área o investigadores/as locales y solicitarles reseñas de libros que hayan tenido un cierto peso en los medios académicos e intelectuales de cada región. Dado que esos debates tienen sus propias temporalidades, y que los libros más nuevos no son necesariamente los más representativos, se reseñarán libros aparecidos en las últimas dos décadas.
Aunque los desarrollos más recientes en historia intelectual han subrayado la importancia de extender la escala de observación para analizar acontecimientos centrales de la historia moderna y contemporánea, gran parte de esta producción científica no ha logrado estar a la altura de su promesa de desprovincialización. Es cierto que esta producción logró desligar sus objetos de estudio de antiguos reflejos eurocéntricos, y que supo deshacerse de una retórica deductiva en la reconstrucción de los contextos, pero en muchos casos ha quedado prisionera de debates marcados por barreras lingüísticas. Esta sección busca contribuir entonces a reducir esta brecha entre diferentes espacios del debate académico y a acercar la historiografía latinoamericana a los desarrollos del campo en otras regiones del planeta. No se trata de reivindicar el “sur global”, dado que el “norte” forma parte de la ecuación. Se trata simplemente de diseñar un mapa más preciso de la producción científica en el siglo xxi.
La sección es organizada por Pablo A. Blitstein (École des Hautes Études en Sciences Sociales).
Employee Relations in Culturally Diverse Workplaces: A Strategic HR Perspective
Authors: Swathi K P  , Prof. Aakanksha Landge
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the intricacies of workforce relationships in culturally diverse organizations, highlighting the crucial function of Human Resources (HR) in creating an environment that is both welcoming and cohesive. By analysing secondary sources including academic publications, industry analyses, and practical examples, the research identifies primary obstacles and assesses successful HR tactics that boost employee contentment, reduce turnover, and enhance organizational efficiency. The results underscore the significance of intercultural education, all-encompassing policies, and culturally adept management in handling diversity. This investigation offers practical guidance for HR experts seeking to address the challenges of cultural diversity and sustain positive workforce relationships in an increasingly global business environment.
Coinfecção por Hemoparasitos em Cão Assintomático
Authors: Pan dos Santos Bruna , Dantas Micheletti Carolina , Ferreira Júlia Eliza , Marcucci Torres Maria Lúcia
Published: October 2024

As hemoparasitoses são doenças comuns em pequenos animais. Elas são causadas por protozoários ou bactérias e são transmitidas por ectoparasitas, como pulgas e carrapatos. Dentre elas, as mais encontradas na rotina médica veterinária são a babesiose, a erliquiose e a anaplasmose, popularmente conhecidas como "doença do carrapato", além de outras conhecidas, como o hepatozoon. Devido aos sintomas inespecíficos e semelhantes, essas doenças são difíceis de diagnosticar no início, podendo muitas vezes serem assintomáticas. Desse modo, o diagnóstico é baseado na suspeita clínica, e posteriormente confirmado por testes laboratoriais. O sucesso do tratamento dessas doenças depende do diagnóstico precoce, da escolha do melhor tratamento que envolve o uso de antibióticos específicos, como doxiciclina, e medidas de suporte para aliviar os sintomas e prevenir complicações. O uso preventivo de controle de ectoparasitas como coleiras antiparasitárias, medicamentos como fluralaner, ou ativos que matam pulgas e carrapatos, o controle do ambiente, consultas regulares e testes anuais, são fundamentais para combatê-las, reduzir seus efeitos e evitar fatalidades. No presente relato, retrata-se um canino macho, SRD, com 12 anos de idade, que ao realizar um exame de rotina, foi observado pelos testes laboratoriais, a coinfecção por babesia, ehrlichia e anaplasma, sem que o animal apresentasse sintomas clínicos característicos.
Intelligente Agenten für Effizienz in der technischen Textilproduktion
Authors: Kins Ruben
Published: October 2024

Produzenten technischer Textilien in Hochlohnländern wie Deutschland stehen unter ständigem Wettbewerbsdruck. Neben hohen Anforderungen an Kosten, Qualität und Flexibilität gewinnen nachhaltige Rohstoffe an Bedeutung. Die Balance zwischen Effizienz und Qualität ist eine große Herausforderung, die oft zu suboptimalen Prozessen und einer hohen Belastung der Mitarbeiter führt. Innovationen im Bereich der Assistenzsysteme sind unerlässlich, um den Zielgrößenkonflikt zu reduzieren. Technologischer Fortschritt ist somit ein wichtiger Baustein, um die Produktion in der EU zu sichern.
Haftmittelfreie, biobasierte Faserverbundwerkstoffe durch UV-unterstützte Grenzflächenvernetzung
Authors: Müssig Jörg , Gutmann Jochen S. , Tsarkova Larisa , Bade Raja , Gebert Beate
Published: October 2024

Die Leistungsfähigkeit von Faserverbundwerkstoffen (FVW) hängt entscheidend von der Qualität der Faser-Matrix-Haftung ab. Die Grundidee der vorgestellten Arbeiten ist die photoinduzierte Grenzflächenvernetzung mittels UV-Bestrahlung von absorbierenden Viskosefasern durch nicht absorbierende polyolefinische Matrixpolymere. Durch diesen radikalisch getriebenen Prozess entsteht ohne zusätzliche Haftvermittler eine an die Faser gebundene Zwischenschicht, die beim zweiten thermischen Verpressen der Halbzeuge eine innige Verbindung mit der Matrix eingeht. Es wurden Verbesserungen erzielt, die mit dem Einsatz konventioneller petrochemischer Haftvermittler vergleichbar sind. Die besondere Per­spektive liegt hier in der Verwendung industriell hergestellter biobasierter Verstärkungsfasern und im Verzicht auf haftvermittelnde Zusätze, was die Chancen für eine einfachere Rezyklierung eröffnet.
Migros sucht Lösung für Mibelle
Authors: Stockburger Manfred , Brändlein Philip
Published: October 2024

Migros kommt beim Konzernumbau weiter voran. Im Verkaufsprozess für die Kosmetik-Produktionstochter Mibelle gibt es diese Woche eine Deadline für Angebote von Investoren. Die mögliche Abspaltung eines Werks soll das Paket attraktiver machen.
Flaconi startet in Belgien und den Niederlanden
Authors: Brändlein Philip
Published: October 2024

Flaconi ist auf Expansionskurs. Zeitgleich zum Start in Belgien und den Niederlanden kündigt die zum Verkauf stehende Prosieben-Beteiligung den Gang in fünf weitere Länder an.
„Veganes Steak“ künftig erlaubt
Authors: Falker Gerrit-Milena
Published: October 2024

Die Lebensmittelbuchkommission hat die Reform der „Leitsätze für vegane und vegetarische Lebensmittel“ abgeschlossen. Sie beschreiben, unter welchen Voraussetzungen pflanzliche Alternativen Bezeichnungen wie „Steak“ oder „Wurst“ tragen dürfen.
Goldene Lage
Authors: Rosbach Britta , Lattmann Christian
Published: October 2024

In der Essener Innenstadt ist Aldi Nord ins frühere Galeria-Haus eingezogen. Die Fläche ist die schickste und zentralste des Discounters in seiner Heimatstadt. Britta Rosbach und Christian Lattmann
Weniger wird mehr
Authors: Himberg Mathias
Published: October 2024

Der Fleischkonsum sinkt seit Jahren – und mit ihm der Absatz der Händler. Unter den Selbstständigen führt das zu einer Ausdifferenzierung: Während die einen ihre Bedientheken einschränken, setzen die anderen voll darauf und profilieren sich mit regionaler und hochwertiger Ware. Mathias Himberg
Hohes Preisniveau drückt den Fleischkonsum
Authors: Krost Heidrun
Published: October 2024

Verbraucher reagieren empfindlich auf die gestiegenen Preise. Schwein und Rind trifft es am härtesten. Hähnchenfleisch ist immer noch am günstigsten und profitiert.
So stärkt KI die Cyber-Resilienz im Handel
Authors: Zywietz Lars , Kaufmann Togbor
Published: October 2024

Chat GPT ist in vielerlei Hinsicht ein Meilenstein – leider auch mit Blick auf Cyberkriminalität. Der Einsatz von KI kann aber auch die Sicherheit durch effizientere Bedrohungserkennung und schnellere Reaktionszeiten verbessern.
Aldi und Lidl liefern Daten
Authors: Hedewig-Mohr Sabine , Konrad Jörg
Published: October 2024

Das Frankfurter Marktforschungsunternehmen NielsenIQ erweitert seine Kassendatenreichweite: Ab dem ersten Quartal 2025 stehen Kunden des Mafo-Anbieters detaillierte Scanning-Daten der Discounter in Deutschland zur Verfügung.
Kreislauf-Vielfalt bahnt Wege zum Ziel
Authors: Auguste Laurent
Published: October 2024

„Circular Economy“ ist eine der Schlüsselstrategien für nachhaltiges Wirtschaften. Vor allem Kunststoff hat großen Nachholbedarf, denn der weitaus größte Teil dieses Rohstoffs für Verpackungen stammt noch aus fossilen Quellen.
Nonfood-Discount sbauf der Überholspur
Authors: Biester Silke
Published: October 2024

Im ersten Halbjahr 2024 ist der Markt für Nonfood-Konsumgüter abermals geschrumpft. Im Verdrängungswettbewerb verliert der LEH, während die Nonfood-Discounter deutlich zulegen können. Das belegen aktuelle Daten der Consumer Panel Services GfK.
JBS investiert in Lachsproduktion und kultiviertes Fleisch
Authors: Schindler Barbara
Published: October 2024

Nach Geflügel, Rind und Schweinefleisch will JBS nun auch den Markt für Fisch und kultivierte Proteine erobern.
Mi Café informiert über Herkunft und Verarbeitung vor Ort
Authors: Schindler Barbara
Published: October 2024

Mit Transparenz vom Anbau über die Röstung bis ins Regal steht die junge Marke Mi Café für Premiumqualität und Nachhaltigkeit.
Procolombia setzt auf Nachhaltigkeit
Authors: Schindler Barbara
Published: October 2024

Europas höhere Anforderungen motivieren kolumbianische Produzenten zu mehr Transparenz und Professionalität. Deutschland steht als wichtiger Abnehmer von Kaffee und Frischware im Fokus.
Großer Streit bei Tierschutzgesetz
Authors: Pehl Patrick
Published: October 2024

Berlin. Die geplante Novelle des Tierschutzgesetzes sorgt für intensive Debatten zwischen Koalitionsfraktionen, Opposition und Interessenvertretern. Bei einer öffentlichen Anhörung im Landwirtschaftsausschuss des Bundestages am Montag prallten verworrene Positionen zu zahlreichen Aspekten aufeinander.
Sicheres Arbeitsumfeld im Landhandel
Authors: Vetter Bernhard
Published: October 2024

Frankfurt a.M. Wie in der Landwirtschaft (siehe az 36, S. 5) sind auch im Landhandel die Zahlen zu den Arbeitsunfällen über die Jahre rückläufig. Die zuständige BGHW verzeichnete 2023 aber einen kleinen Rückschlag.
Proteinversorgung mit Vertical Farming
Authors: Schultz Olaf
Published: October 2024

Frankfurt a.M. Nahrungsmittelproteine sollen trotz extremer Wetterlagen und steigender Umweltbelastungen weltweit keine Mangelware werden. Dafür bündeln sechs Fraunhofer-Institute ihr Know-how.
Fridays for Farming?
Authors: Brust Martin
Published: October 2024

Gersfeld/Rhön. Was will die Generation Z vom Arbeitsleben? Wie steht sie zur Agrarwirtschaft? So richtig klar ist das noch nicht, denn die Soziologie hat noch zu wenig gute Studien. Aber klar ist: Nicht alle gehen zu Klimademos, manche stattdessen auf den Acker, und auch auf den Höfen lebt die Gen Z. Nur wo man sie kommunikativ erreicht, da scheinen sich alle einig.
So funktioniert der Wechsel
Authors: Rempt René
Published: October 2024

Eutin. Ihr kennt das sicher: Im Herbst lauft ihr über eure frisch gepflügten oder gegrubberten Flächen, es hat einen Regenschauer gegeben und die Erde klebt an euren Schuhen beziehungsweise fühlt sich rutschig und schwammig an.
Verbrauch von Biodiesel sinkt deutlich
Authors: Schultz Olaf
Published: October 2024

Frankfurt a.M. Der Einsatz des alternativen Kraftstoffs ist in der ersten Jahreshälfte 2024 nennenswert eingebrochen. Im gleichen Zeitraum hat Bioethanol hingegen zulegen können.
Nahinfrarot Spektoskopie: Lichtprüfung
Authors:   Guido Matthes
Published: October 2024

Bei Nahrungsmitteln fordern Verbraucher einegleichbleibende Qualität unter Berücksichtigung umweltschonender und ressourcenarmerHerstellung. Technische Kontrollmittel via Lichtunterstützen dabei die Qualitätskontrolle.