bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Weight discrimination and body mass indexes as predictors of body esteem in members of the Bear subculture
Authors: Mijas Magdalena Ewa , Koziara Karolina , Galbarczyk Andrzej , Jasienska Grazyna
Published: September 2024

Aim of the study

The Bear subculture is a community of sexual minority men who are distinguished by their preference for muscular or large body build and pronounced body hair in men. Previous studies indicated that Bears experienced weight stigma within and outside the gay community. In this study we focused on body esteem in members of the Bear subculture and explored its associations with anthropological body mass indexes and experiences of weight discrimination.

Subject or material and methods

The study, which included questionnaires and anthropological measurements, involved 64 cisgender sexual minority men from the Polish Bear community. Analyses focused on predictors of body esteem measured with The Body-Esteem Scale, including body mass indexes (e.g., waist circumference) and self-reported exposure to weight discrimination.

Results

Every three out of four study participants reported exposure to weight stigma in the past. Greater exposure to weight discrimination predicted lower ratings of Physical Attractiveness, Upper Body Strength and Physical Condition. Body mass indexes were significantly and negatively related only to Physical Condition factor.

Discussion

Our study confirms previous observations of increased body mass indexes and exposure to weight stigma among Bears. Interestingly, weight discrimination but not body mass indexes consistently and negatively predicted self-assessed body esteem across its all dimensions.

Conclusions

Men from the Bear community constitute a population that may be particularly vulnerable to health inequalities due to increased body mass and weight stigma exposure. Health promotion interventions targeting this population should be tailored to Bears’ subcultural norms, support healthier lifestyles and effective coping with stigma as opposed to focus on weight loss.
Sensory thresholds and the sense of bodily identity in schizophrenia
Authors: Sakson-Obada Olga
Published: September 2024

Aim of the study

The aim of the study was to investigate: 1) whether schizophrenia is associated with disturbances in bodily identity (BI) and in sensation thresholds (STs) assessed by a questionnaire and experimental methods (pain and proprioception thresholds); 2) whether disturbances in STs are related to BI in the schizophrenia group.

Subject or material and methods

Fifty-four outpatients with schizophrenia in remission and 54 controls completed: Bodily Identity Scale, Heightened Thresholds Scale, and Lowered Thresholds Scale. Their pain and proprioception thresholds were estimated using the TempTest Apparatus and the Discrimination Weights Test, respectively.

Results

Compared to the control group, patients with schizophrenia: reported more disturbances in BI and in the STs examined by questionnaire, displayed increased proprioception, but a lower pain threshold. In the schizophrenia group disturbances in BI were only associated with distortions in STs examined by questionnaires.

Discussion

Disturbances in stimulus processing in the experimental setting did not explain disruptions in BI in schizophrenia, which may be due to the study's methodology and the weak (pain threshold) or moderate (proprioception threshold) manifestation of STs disturbances in the experimental setting in the clinical group.

Conclusions

In schizophrenia remission no coherent pattern of sensitivity to experimental stimuli is observed. The increased sensitivity to experimental pain in patients in remission is consistent with the results of previous studies, and undermines the popular thesis of pain indifference in schizophrenia. Patients with schizophrenia struggle throughout their lives with disturbances of bodily identity and states of both over- and under-sensitivity to environmental stimuli.
Temperamental traits, defense styles and professional burnout among psychotherapists
Authors: Bokowy (Ptak) Natalia
Published: September 2024

Aim of the study

It was decided to examine the relationships that exist between temperamental traits, defense styles and professional burnout in a group of psychotherapists. The overarching goal of this study was to examine how defense styles mediate the relationship between temperamental traits and burnout in psychotherapists.

Subject or material and methods

Eighty-two individuals working in the psychotherapy profession participated in the study. Three psychological tools were used: (1) FCB-TI(R), (2) DSQ-40, (3) OLBI, as well as own questionnaire used to describe the study group.

Results

The conducted analyses showed associations between particular variables and allowed to confirm the mediating role of mature and immature defense styles in the relationship between temperamental traits (emotional reactivity, perseverance, endurance, activity) and burnout or at least one of its dimensions. In the case of neurotic defenses, the mediating effect did not occur.

Discussion

The results presented here indicate that temperament traits and defense styles are important variables in the study of professional burnout in psychotherapists. They suggest that certain temperament traits and defense styles may increase or decrease the risk of burnout, and that defense styles mediate the relationship between temperament traits and burnout in psychotherapists. Thus, the research hypotheses presented in the paper were mostly confirmed.

Conclusions

Both education and self-improvement of psychotherapists should focus on strengthening mature defense mechanisms, which have a protective function in the process of burnout development, and eliminating the use of immature defenses, which intensify the relationship between certain temperament traits and burnout. This information could be useful in recruiting future professionals, their training and professional practice.
The image of sexual expression of female patients suffering from mood disorders: the questionnaire study on Polish clinical sample.
Authors: Kowalczyk Robert , Krystyan Tomasz , Krzystanek Marek , Piekaraska - Bugiel Katarzyna , Waszyńska Katarzyna , Daren Artur , Kurpisz Jacek , Nowosielski Krzysztof , Lew - Starowicz Zbigniew , Klon Weronika
Published: September 2024

Aim of the study

Mood disorders are significantly connected with sexual functioning impairment among women. The aim of this study was to assess and describe specifics of sexual expression and its dysfunc-tion in groups of women diagnosed with bipolar disorders (F31), major depressive disorder (F32 and F33) and persistent mood disorders (F34).

Subject or material and methods

The sample comprised 129 female patients aged 19-65. Subjects were recruited in the Polish psy-chiatry hospital wards. Patients were interviewed using the sexological questionnaire Mell-Krat (Kromierzyńska’s version) for women (SFK/K) for clinical assessment of patients' mood Mont-gomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), and Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) were used. Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT) was also used to control alcohol addiction's influence on sexual functions.

Results

The mean final score in SFK/K for the whole sample was 35.3 points (SD=15.65), clearly below the cut-off point for the average level of sexual reaction for the Polish population. More than 88.4% of patients achieved scores lower than optimal.

Discussion

The prevalence of sexual dysfunctions among women suffering from mood disorders is in-creased. However, the image of the sexual expression of those patients is not homogenous.

Conclusions

The paper put light on the sexual functioning of women with mood disorders. However, further research using more specific methods and bigger samples is needed.
Empowering the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs: The Role of Innovation and Incubation Centres
Authors: Ravichandran Ramasamy , Dixit Preeti
Published: September 2024

This study examines the critical role of incubation centers in empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs and contributing to the growth of economies worldwide. It explores the importance of incubation centers and highlights the crucial role of incubation centers in fostering entrepreneurship by providing resources, mentorship, and support to startups. The analysis of 26 peer-reviewed articles reveals consistent evidence of the positive impact of incubation centers on entrepreneurship development. Key findings include the ability of incubators to provide access to resources, facilitate knowledge sharing, and create supportive environments for startups to thrive. The study further presents data from surveys conducted with students and entrepreneurs engaged with incubation centers. Findings highlight the positive perception of incubation centers, with entrepreneurs reporting significant improvement in skills, access to valuable networks, and increased chances of success. The study further identifies challenges faced by incubation centers, such as lack of sustainable funding, bureaucratic hurdles, and limitations in selection processes. It proposes solutions like diversified funding models, streamlined administrative procedures, and focus on inclusivity to overcome these challenges. The study emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive ecosystem for startups, with incubation centers playing a key role in fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing. It suggests measures like creating vibrant communities, promoting entrepreneurial mindset, and nurturing innovation to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs. The study highlights the need for further research and strategic interventions to optimize the effectiveness of these centers and empower future generations of entrepreneurs.
Knowledge, Ability and Motivation for the Practice of Checking Mud Content in Sand on Learning Outcomes of Concrete Specifications and Characteristics
Authors: Rintowati Ariani , Suparji Suparji , Wardhono Arie , Suhartini Ratna
Published: September 2024

Sand mining in the area around Sumber Ringin Village, Sri Gading Village, Jati Dukuh Village and around the coast of the Rantas River is a blessing for the people around Mojokerto City and Regency. Mining activities in this area cannot be separated from the attention of many parties and the community, so researchers want to know how much silt content is in the sand and apply it to the basic competencies of concrete specifications and characteristics. This study aims to determine the knowledge, abilities and learning motivation of students in carrying out the practice of silt content in sand on the learning outcomes of basic competency specifications and characteristics of concrete. including research ex post facto. The research design used path analysis. The prerequisite test used is the homogeneity of the F test and the normality test of the Chi Square distribution. Instrument validation was analyzed using the Rasch Model. The research was conducted in class X Modeling Design and Building Information (DPIB)  for State Vocational High School (SMK) 1 Mojokerto with a total of 100 students. The results of the research: (1) there is an effect of knowledge on learning outcomes, (2) there is an effect of ability on learning outcomes, (3) there is an effect of knowledge on student learning motivation, (4) there is an influence of ability on student learning motivation, (5) there is an effect of student learning motivation on learning outcomes, (6) there is an influence of knowledge on learning outcomes through learning motivation, (7) there is an effect of ability on learning outcomes through learning motivation.
School Energy Management in Efforts to Improve the Quality of Facilities and Infrastructure in Schools
Authors: Kurnia Yudhi , Hidayati Dian , Sukirman Sukirman , Zuhaery Mohammad
Published: September 2024

School energy management is one of the efforts to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which focus on using clean and affordable energy and tackling climate change. This study aims to analyze and describe the planning, implementation, evaluation, and school energy management actions to improve the quality of facilities and infrastructure at Cendekia Muda Middle School and Muhammadiyah 8 Middle School Bandung. This study uses a qualitative method with a case study approach. Data was collected through observation, interviews, and documentation—data reduction techniques, data presentation, and concluding analyzed data. The study results show that planning for school energy management in both schools involves various parties, referring to government policies and considering technical, economic, social, and environmental aspects. The implementation of school energy management in both schools includes saving electricity, using renewable energy, managing waste, and counseling students and the community. Evaluation of school energy management in both schools was carried out using quantitative and qualitative indicators and involving internal and external parties. School energy management measures in both schools took the form of improving facilities, adding alternative energy sources, developing environmental programs, and collaborating with other parties. The results of this study are that school energy management in both schools has been carried out well and has positively impacted the quality of facilities and infrastructure, saving operational costs, increasing environmental awareness, and contributing to SDG achievement. This research implies that school energy management needs to be improved by continuously innovating, monitoring, evaluating, and socializing.
Qualitative Document Analysis of Vocational School Based Learning in a Blue Curicculum Perspective
Authors: Rahmaliaputeri Adinda Gita , Widiaty Isma , Rahmawati Yulia
Published: September 2024

Connectedness man with sea as source Power ecosystem main has become focus main study in several year final. Although sea provide a number of big service vital ecosystems, such as production oxygen, absorption carbon blue, and provides essential protein for man globally, however threat to sea the more increase. In facing the challenge this, concept Blue Curriculum or curriculum blue has appeared as global initiative for integrate education marine in education system. Integration between marine in Education has pushed globally via so called concept Blue Curriculum. Blue curriculum is draft new in development curriculum. Learning framework in study This goal - directed curriculum that contains about the necessary learning process done in activity learning by graduates education vocational. School vocational allegedly is strategic institution. For develop concept of Continuing Education Research purposes for develop framework vocational education learning in perspective blue curriculum. Analysis fills second document find that vocational education competencies with theme Think Critical, Hard Skills, Technology, Soft Skills and Market Orientation are available in second document literacy marine and can integrated to in Vocational Education. Finding This produce competencies aimed at making graduates education vocational own ability understand role sea, answered challenge sea with innovative ideas and participate to continuity through developed learning2 in the blue curriculum.
Ocean Literacy Competency in Vocational Education in the Perspective of Blue Curriculum: A Document Analysis
Authors: Triastity Sarinah , Widiaty Isma , Handayani Mustika Nuramalia
Published: September 2024

Blue Curriculum is a new paradigm in curriculum development that utilizes ocean potential as the main basis for learning. Education is considered an easy and effective way to address the negative impacts of human activities on the marine environment. All aspects of vocational education are equipped with knowledge and skills that support sustainable development goals (SDGs), especially to reduce the negative impacts caused by human activities on the environment through sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. Vocational education is closely related to the competencies that graduates must possess. To realize the blue curriculum in vocational education, knowing the ocean literacy competencies that vocational education graduates must possess is necessary. Content analysis of the two documents found that vocational education competencies under the themes of Critical Thinking, Hard Skills, Technology, Soft Skills, and Market Orientation are present in both marine literacy documents and can be integrated into vocational education. These competencies aim for vocational education graduates to have the ability to understand the role of the ocean, respond to ocean challenges with innovative ideas, and participate in sustainability solutions.
Quality Assessment of Rice Using Convolution Neural Networks and Other Machine Learning Techniques- A Comparative Study
Authors: Phukon Nilutpal , Singh Ksh Robert , Singh Takhellambam Sonamani , Datta Subir , Deb Subhasish , Singh Usham Robinchandra , Thingbaijam Ghaneshwori
Published: September 2024

Rice holds its position as the most widely cultivated crop worldwide, its demand steadily rising alongside population growth. The precise identification of grains, especially wheat and rice, holds significant importance as their ultimate utilization depends on the quality of grains prior to processing. Traditionally, grain identification tasks have been predominantly manual, relying on experienced grain inspectors and consuming considerable time. However, this manual classification process is susceptible to variations influenced by individual perception, given the subjective nature of human image interpretation. Consequently, there is an urgent need for an automated recognition system capable of accurately identifying grains under diverse environmental conditions, necessitating the application of digital image processing techniques. In this study, we focus on grading five distinct varieties of rice based on their quality, employing a range of convolution neural networks (CNN) namely, Efficientnetb0, Googlenet, MobileNetV2, Resnet50, Resnet101, and ShuffleNet. The performance of CNN towards identification and grading of rice grain is also compared to that of other parametric and Non-parametric classifiers namely, Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA), K-Nearest Neighbor (K-NN), Naive Bayes (NB), and Back Propagation Neural Network (BPNN) using Gray Level Co-occurrence Matrix (GLCM) and Gray Level Run Length Matrix (GLRLM) based texture features. The image dataset comprises five grades of rice, each containing 100 images, resulting in a comprehensive collection of 500 samples for analysis. It is observed that, Convolution neural networks can grade five different qualities of rice with highest accuracy of 64.4% in case of GoogleNet. Results show that, rice grading using texture features performs better with highest accuracy of 99.2% (using GLCM) and 93.4% (using GLRLM).
Study of Ancient and Modern Wheat Grain Textures, Physiochemical Properties, and Biscuit Quality
Authors: Methe Pravinkumar , Kawade Sonali , Oak Manoj
Published: September 2024

We conducted a comprehensive study to investigate how different types of wheat affect the quality of biscuits. Our research included an ancient wheat variety called T. spherococcum, as well as present-day cultivated hard wheat varieties and soft wheat varieties (T. aestivum). We compared three hard wheat varieties (MACS6478, MACS2496, NI5439) and two soft wheat varieties (HS 490, NIAW3170) with ancient wheat (T. spherococcum) to analyze various aspects such as agronomic, grain and flour physicochemical, dough mixing, and biscuit quality parameters. Our results showed that soft wheat has a weaker association between starch and the protein matrix in the grain, leading to less starch damage, a lower particle size index (PSI), and higher flour recovery than hard wheat. Soft wheat flour also has lower gluten strength, a higher gliadin fraction, and decreased mixing resistance. Additionally, soft wheat flour has lower starch damage, which results in lower alkaline water retention capacity (AWRC) than hard wheat flour. These physiochemical findings helped us better understand how these traits related to biscuit quality. The study concluded that simple and fast physiochemical tests such as PSI, MST, AWRC, and flour protein content would help to select the best biscuit-quality wheat. These tests are quick and simple and do not need high-end sophisticated instruments. We also concluded that T. spherococcum was a hard wheat, and its flour physicochemical dough mixing properties were similar to that of hard wheat. It also produced inferior quality biscuits like hard wheat.
Assessing Cocoon Production by Earthworm in Response to Soil Pesticide Contamination
Authors: Sharma Himanshu , Vashishta Nisha , Suman Pooja , Thakur Anita , Yadav Yasha
Published: September 2024

The global rise in human population has escalated food demand, leading the agricultural sector to heavily rely on pesticides, which over time contaminate soil. To preserve the environment, it is imperative to adopt sustainable agricultural practices. Pesticides adversely affect earthworm survival and cocoon production, rendering them unsuitable for agricultural purposes. Bioremediation combined with bioaugmentation offers a solution to improve pesticide-contaminated agricultural soil. Although earthworms are effective in soil bioremediation, even sublethal doses of pesticides can diminish their lifespan and reproductive capabilities. This study specifically highlights the impact of sublethal toxicity from AlP (Aluminium phosphide) and DDVP (dichlorvos) on Eisenia fetida. Initial findings indicate a substantial reduction in cocoon production in the early stages following pesticide exposure, yet subsequent bioaugmentation with cow dung marginally increased cocoon production. Thus, incorporating bioaugmentation with cow dung is essential when employing earthworms for bioremediation in pesticide-contaminated soil. Furthermore, this study underscores the significant harm that pesticide residues and sublethal doses inflict on soil fauna and the microorganisms residing within macrofauna.
Isolation of Bioactive Fumigants from Different Varieties of Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) and their Toxicity on Tribolium castaneum Herbst and Rhyzopertha dominica Fabricius
Authors: George Ajesh , Krishnan Jithu Unni , Arumughan Jayaprakas Cheruvandasseri
Published: September 2024

Tribolium castaneum Herbst and Rhyzopertha dominica Fabricius are significant pests causing both qualitative and quantitative deterioration of stored products. The reliance on synthetic fumigants to control these pests poses numerous risks to human health and the environment. Given cassava's status as a cyanogenic plant, this study screened nine cassava varieties to isolate insecticidal compounds effective against stored product pests. Both young and mature leaves were subjected to hydrogen cyanide extraction, a potential fumigant approved by the Central Insecticidal Board (CIB) of India. Extraction was performed using two methods: direct leaf crushing at room temperature and mechanical extraction with a biopesticide extraction plant at ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute. Among the varieties, Sree Swarna exhibited the highest cyanogen content, while Sree Jaya had the least. Laboratory assays demonstrated that R. dominica was more susceptible to the cassava-derived bio-fumigant than T. castaneum. These findings suggest that bio-fumigants from cassava leaves are a viable alternative to synthetic fumigants for managing stored product pests.
Pareto's 80/20 in Odisha Agriculture: Prioritizing Sub-Sectors for Maximum Impact
Authors: Sahu Pritipadma , Gartia Rajendra , Munda Suru
Published: September 2024

Agriculture is the foundation of Odisha's economy and it continues to be the backbone of the state. The state was recognized for its commendable agricultural production and abundant natural resources. Extensive water reservoirs, forests, substantial rainfall, and a sufficient surplus of labor were pivotal elements that play a significant role in fostering agricultural growth and development. The present research concentrates on the agricultural sector which plays a crucial role in shaping overall Gross Value Added (GVA) of the state and also highlights the study of agricultural sub sectors namely crop, livestock, forestry & logging, fishing & aqua culture. The principle of Pareto’s 80/20 rule is used to identify the 20% Vital few agricultural sub sectors (VFS) which contribute 80% to total GVA. Thus by promoting the GVA of these VFS sectors the remaining 80% of agricultural sub sectors contributing 20% to the total GVA will automatically be benefited. The objective is to scrutinize, compare, and forecast data pertaining to the contributions of the agricultural sub sectors to Odisha's GVA spanning from 2011-12 to 2021-22. The GVA data were extracted from the Odisha Economic Survey 2021-22. Additionally, various statistical tools and tests, including analysis of variance, F-test, trend analysis, linear regression analysis, were adopted to derive meaningful insights and to formulate various policy measures for the development of the vital few agricultural sub sectors. Despite a 27% contribution to the Gross Value Added (GVA), significant disparities among sub-sectors were identified, necessitating targeted interventions. Recommendations include investing in irrigation infrastructure, promoting crop diversification, providing modern training, supporting small-scale farmers, improving market connections, and embracing sustainable practices. Addressing these disparities could unleash the sector's full potential, fostering sustainable development and empowering farming communities.
Ecological Impact and Invasiveness of Alien Weed Species in Moradabad District
Authors: Sharma Sachin , Joshi S. P. , Pandey Manisha
Published: September 2024

Eco-botanical research work on invasive alien weed species in Moradabad district deals with ecological invasiveness and ecological impact. 88 weeds under 66 genera, belonging to 27 APG-IV families, have been enlisted from Moradabad district of Uttar Pradesh. Among the reported families, the top eight dominated families are as Asteraceae 17spp.), followed by Amaranthaceae (9 spp.), Malvaceae (7 spp.), Poaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Fabaceae with 6 spp. each and, Convolvulaceae, Solanaceae with 5 spp. each. All the invasive weeds were arranged as per the APG-IV modern system of classification. Among the reported invasive weed species, 81% are herb, followed by 13% shrub, 3% climbing herb, 2% creeper herb, and 1% climbing shrub. The study reveals that 79% of weed species are reported as being in the category of ecological invasiveness, 13% as ecological impact, and 8% as being above both categories. Current work reveals that 43% of weed species are reported as ruderals and 34% as agrestals, while 23% are both types. In terms of origin, mostly weeds 49 spp., are related to tropical America.
Green Mapper: An AI-Driven Initiative for Aerial Tree Mapping, Maintaining Environmental Balance
Authors: Thalor Meenakshi , Khan Shahbaz , Bhongale Sampada , Bhosale Prayag , Giri Ankita , Shewale Shravani
Published: September 2024

Green Mapper revolutionizes environmental conservation efforts with its advanced software solution for efficient tree mapping and analysis. Leveraging the YOLOv5 machine learning algorithm, the platform enables precise identification and quantification of trees in aerial imagery, facilitating strategic resource allocation. Collaborative features foster partnerships with NGOs, promoting coordinated sustainable forest management. YOLOv5's exceptional object detection capabilities justify its selection, ensuring both speed and accuracy in tree detection. Green Mapper's integration of advanced technology and collaboration empowers stakeholders to make informed decisions for sustainable forest management, contributing significantly to environmental conservation efforts.
Development of Rotary Sieve for Preparation of Casing Soil Required in Mushroom Cultivation
Authors: Arjun Anarase Dattatray , Attri Brij Lal
Published: September 2024

Preparation of casing material is an important and crucial step in button mushroom cultivation. Decomposed farmyard manure (FYM) is one of the major ingredients used in the casing mixture and it needs to be sieved for the separation of undesirable impurities. The conventional practice of sieving raw FYM is time consuming, crude and causes drudgery to the human labors. The study aims to develop a rotary sieve to be used for sieving of raw FYM before its use in casing mixture. While fabrication, sieve performance was evaluated by carrying out 15 experimental trials formulated using the Box-Behnken design of response surface methodology. Maximum sieve effectiveness (0.952) and throughput capacity (61crates/h) were estimated at the rotational speed of 33.2 rpm, sieve inclination of 9.8% and 0.49 inch sieve aperture. Labor, time and human drudgery were seen to be significantly reduced by using rotary sieve in casing material preparation.
Effect of Zeolite/Hydroxyapatite Nanofertilizer on Soil Quality, Nutrients Status and Plant Productivity in Solanum melongena
Authors: Kumari Rima
Published: September 2024

In the modern era of nanotechnology, nanomaterial-based nano fertilizers are emerging as promising alternatives for sustainable agricultural practices. The development of Zeolites and hydroxyapatite-based nano fertilizers have attracted great attention due to their high impact benefits in agricultural production benefits in agricultural production. In this study, a hybrid nanocomposite of Zeolite/ hydroxyapatite (ZHNC) was used as a nano fertilizer and the impacts of ZHNC on soil physico-chemical quality, soil water retention potency and corresponding response on plant growth and productivity was observed. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, FTIR Spectroscopy were used to characterised nanoparticle by examining their morphology, elemental nature and chemical composition. SEM results detect the presence of needle-like hydroxyapatite crystals on the amorphous zeolite matrix. Its chemical composition and elemental nature were confirmed by FTIR and EDX. Soil studies are formed to assess the impacts of ZHNC treatment on soil quality and nutrient potency. Results revealed that ZHNC possesses the great potential to improve soil quality via influencing different parameters i.e., higher CEC, lower bulk density, higher porosity, retains of good moisture as well and maintains higher nutrients Along with, it also promotes plant growth and productivity, coincident with increased nutrients using Solanum melongena experimental plant. Hence, ZHNC can be used as a suitable substitute for fertilization in agricultural practices. Overall remark, ZHNC is proven to be highly efficient nano fertilizers in improving soil conditioning and in turn boosting plant growth and productivity, retaining good levels of organic nutrients (Organic P significantly). Hence, ZHNC can be used as a suitable substitute for fertilization in agricultural practices.
Arsenic Contamination in Eastern India: Exploring the Impact, Mitigation, and Bioremediation Strategies
Authors: Dube Ruchi Shivsharnkar , Singh Sunita , Gupte Arpita , Modi Akhilesh
Published: September 2024

Arsenic is a metalloid that is naturally present in the environment. Exposure to arsenic can cause health issues like cancer, cardiovascular, neurological, and respiratory complications. With more than a million people affected due to arsenic contamination in groundwater, Bihar is one of the worst arsenic-affected states in India. Groundwater is one of the primary sources for cooking, farming, and other household chores. People are exposed to arsenic through food as well as contaminated drinking water. As a result, arsenic has made its way into the food chain. Several cases of cancer, arsenical dermatosis, and keratosis have been reported in Bihar. The source of arsenic contamination in Bihar has yet to be identified, although the Himalayan sediments have been suspected as one of the prime reasons. The government has taken steps to prevent and control arsenic contamination in the state; however, reports in recent years indicate the number of blocks affected by arsenic contamination has been rapidly increasing. This necessitates a more comprehensive arsenic mitigation tool. Various technologies can be employed to mitigate levels of arsenic in groundwater, of which bioremediation is one of the more cost-effective and sustainable methods. The current article is an attempt to give an overview of the sources and areas of Bihar with arsenic contamination, and the concentration in different regions. It also provides a piece of detailed information on arsenic contamination on health, and the current state of arsenic bioremediation.
Secure school nears completion
Authors: Simpson Fiona
Published: September 2024

Oasis Restore founder tells CYP Now why long-awaited initiative is a ‘revolution’ for youth justice
Foundations sets out priorities
Authors: Hayes Derren
Published: September 2024

Two experts explain what they hope good practice research body for the children's sector will achieve
Use review to rethink staffing
Authors: Hempsall James
Published: September 2024

Providers can benefit from proposed Early Years Foundation Stage Framework changes, says expert
Schools connect with youth work
Authors: Harle Emily
Published: September 2024

Inquiry calls for collaboration between schools and youth workers to improve pupils' outcomes
Framework closure risks reforms
Authors: Simpson Fiona
Published: September 2024

End of regional group for commissioning children's homes threatens government plans, experts say
Racial diversity in leadership
Authors: Hayes Derren
Published: September 2024

Training programme helps black and Asian leaders to progress but experts say more action is needed
Practice Examples: Specialist team supports students' emerging mental health needs
Authors: Harle Emily
Published: September 2024

IN SUMMARY

Brighter Futures for Children's Mental Health Support Team fills the mental health support gap by offering school-wide, group-based and one-to-one interventions for students with low and emerging mental health needs
Frontline evolves its approach to boost reach and retention
Authors: Hayes Derren
Published: September 2024

A decade on from its launch, the fast-track child protection social work training programme is expanding into more areas, extending its duration and training future leaders in the next phase of its development
Degree vs apprenticeship debate
Authors: Hayes Derren
Published: September 2024

Experts at a recent conference assessed the merits of different training routes for youth workers
Tailoring Neet interventions
Authors: Hayes Derren
Published: September 2024

Study reveals how geography and background are key risk factors in young people being out of work
County councils seek to innovate to tackle social care challenges
Authors: Harle Emily
Published: September 2024

Rising demand for care services and falling funding for early help has put huge pressure on county council budgets, forcing many areas to think creatively about how they can deliver more support for less money
Peter O'Hara
Authors: Hayes Derren
Published: September 2024

Derren Hayes speaks to the health and social care technology entrepreneur
SPEECH, LANGUAGE AND COMMUNICATION NEEDS
Authors: Hayes Derren
Published: September 2024

With pandemic disruption increasing the number of children experiencing speech and language difficulties, policymakers are stepping up early intervention efforts to address communication needs
Practice examples: Supporting communication needs in the early years of childhood
Authors: Hayes Derren
Published: September 2024

IN SUMMARY

In 2020, Public Health England published four peer-reviewed case studies of areas delivering speech, language and communication pathways in an integrated way. Here are summaries of the four successful approaches.
Practice examples: Special school develops bespoke learning plans
Authors: Jacobs Nina
Published: September 2024

IN SUMMARY

Special primary school helps children overcome barriers to learning through close collaboration between therapists, teachers and learning support assistants
Changes to school inspections
Authors: Stephenson Jo
Published: September 2024

Responding to criticism, Ofsted has announced changes to how it inspects schools, but unions say these don't go far enough to address concerns. Jo Stephenson summarises the key measures
Report: Trends in Eating Disorder and Self-harm Incidence Rates Since Covid-19
Authors: Trafford Alex , Carr Matthew , Ashcroft Darren , Chew-Graham Carolyn , Cockcroft Emma , Cybulski Lukasz , Garavini Emma , Garg Shruti , Kabir Thomas , Kapur Nav , Temple Rachel , Webb Roger , Mok Pearl
Published: September 2024

Published by The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health
Keeping children in care safe
Authors: Bury James
Published: September 2024

CoramBAAF head of policy, research and development James Bury on how the vital role of health professionals for care safeguarding was explored at this year's CoramBAAF Health Conference
The Carer's Leave Act 2023
Authors: Itua Augusta
Published: September 2024

Augusta Itua, legal consultant at CoramBAAF, assesses the implications for carers of new legislation that gives employees the right to take leave in order to provide or arrange for long-term care needs
LEGO play, worldwide
Authors: Gómez de la Cuesta Gina
Published: September 2024

Dr Gina Gómez de la Cuesta sets out how a LEGO play programme, developed using international evidence of what works, helps improve the speech, language and communication skills of children
Deutsche und italienische „geschlechtersensible Sprache“ zwischen rechtlicher und institutioneller Kommunikation
Authors: Brambilla Marina , Crestani Valentina
Published: September 2024

The article explores the use of human nouns in a corpus of directive texts (legal texts on gender equality and on equality of people with disabilities) and the conceptualisation of gender-sensitive language in a corpus of advisory texts (i. e. in manuals on legal and administrative language and in gender guidelines of universities) produced in Germany and in Italy. The contrastive analyses of the directive and advisory texts are closely linked: namely, gender guidelines that universities make available on their web pages refer to legal texts and to manuals.
After theoretical and methodological clarifications, the article reports the main results of the two analyses, which can be summarised as follows:
-     Directive texts: both in Italian legal texts on gender equality and on equality of people with disabilities there is a high percentage of masculine forms, while the German legal text on gender equality has a high percentage of feminine nouns and the German legal texts on equality of people with disabilities have a high percentage of gender-inclusive nouns (such as epicene nouns).
-     Advisory texts: German manuals on legal and administrative texts recommend the use of gender-sensible language, particularly when referring to natural persons, i. e. avoiding the use of generic masculines. Italian manuals on administrative texts recommend avoiding generic masculines. German and Italian recommendations also share a binary view. The situation is different in advisory texts produced by Universities: German guidelines (although not all of them) give both advice on binary forms and on overcoming this linguistic binarism, whereas Italian ones recommend binary forms and focus on the construction of feminine nouns. The use of masculine nouns for men and feminine nouns for women, neutral forms, and alternative constructions (such as passive forms), on the other hand, is a common feature of German and Italian guidelines.
The Organ in J. S. Bach’s St. Matthew Passion
Authors: Stauff Derek
Published: September 2024

Abstract: Since the late nineteenth century, scholars have formulated theories about the role and placement of organs in the St. Matthew Passion , using them to interpret the work’s theological message and anchor broader ideas about how Bach positioned his other players and singers for performances in the Thomaskirche . The church housed two permanently fixed organs: a large one in the west gallery and the misleadingly labeled swallow’s nest organ in a gallery on the east wall. The latter, smaller organ has become the central point in debates about the Passion, leading to a variety of interpretations. The current evidence, reviewed here in substantial detail, does not unequivocally prove any of the main theories. Yet not all are equally strong. By examining the history of scholarship on the St. Matthew Passion and by carefully reexamining the evidence, we can grow more aware of weaknesses stemming from the enduring influence of older scholarship, based on questionable premises, outdated information, or seemingly unintentional misreading. The results argue strongly against one of the most common theories, which posits a small auxiliary role for the east gallery organ, along with a “third choir,” for most of Bach’s performances. Proponents of this theory have sometimes harnessed it to add another layer of theological symbolism to Bach’s music. This too is questionable. Musical evidence may also argue against it. Bach’s changing approach to scoring the chorale “O Lamm Gottes, unschuldig” in the opening movement shows that the melody does not work in dialectic opposition to the two main choruses, as sometimes claimed, but emerges from within the group. In place of this theory, two alternatives stand out: either the full separation of the two choirs between the two galleries of the Thomaskirche or the positioning of all performers in the west gallery, with no role for the east gallery or its organ for any of Bach’s Passion performances. Though neither fully accounts for every detail in the evidence nor answers all possible objections, they do offer more satisfying explanations than the alternatives.
The “Continuo: pro Bassono e Violoncello” Part for In allen meinen Taten BWV 97
Authors: Melamed Daniel R.
Published: September 2024

Abstract: The original performing part for Johann Sebastian Bach’s cantata In allen meinen Taten BWV 97 headed “Continuo: pro Bassono e Violoncello” has long been interpreted as intended for two players simultaneously. This has suggested that the continuo complement for this work included both cello and bassoon in addition to organ and violone, and (more broadly) that sometimes a bassoonist participated in cantata performances while sharing a part labeled for another bass instrument. This appears to be a misreading. The appearance of two musical lines in some passages in the first movement does not mean that the part was intended for two instrumentalists. Rather, this unusual notation was the result of a confused copying process that Bach himself corrected in a way that left the part open to modern misinterpretation. Bach’s regular practice appears to have been to prepare a distinct bassoon part when he wanted to add that instrument to a work’s ensemble, and to all evidence he expected each performing part to be used by one performer, except in a very few special circumstances. The best explanation in In allen meinen Taten is that the “Bassono e Violoncello” part was designed for a musician who played bassoon in the first movement (an ouverture with characteristic wind trio passages) and cello in the rest of the cantata. Two other bassoon/cello parts survive among Bach’s original materials; these may well have been used in the same way. It is also possible that several other original cantata parts labeled for bassoon may have been intended for that instrument in the first movement only, and for cello in the remainder.
Rethinking Romantic Children’s Literature: Charlotte Smith’s Rural Walks and the Feminine Antipastoral
Authors: Trzinski S. R.
Published: September 2024

Abstract: Despite the widespread use of “pastoral” and “georgic” in scholarship on British Romantic literature, few scholars have considered nineteenth-century children’s books as a subgenre of the pastoral. This article argues that children’s books from this period specifically written by women for girls navigate an area between the pastoral and georgic: the feminine antipastoral. Focusing on Charlotte Smith’s Rural Walks , this article argues that female-written nineteenth-century children’s literature for girls presents lessons disguised by elements of the pastoral that prepare the reader for a womanhood in which she will have to navigate patriarchal subjugation.
Tea Leaves and Travesties: J.K. Rowling’s Fourth Drama
Authors: Young Joseph Rex
Published: September 2024

Abstract: J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter novels benefit considerably from Rowling’s use of the Mendlesohnian portal-quest exposition, which sets the protagonist up for neo-Romantic apotheosis. That topos is hardly subtle, however, and can easily lose effect if spotted by the reader. The purpose of this article is to properly develop a proposed explanation of how Rowling avoids this degradation of effect. Her narrative very clearly instantiates Mikhail Bakhtin’s notion of the classical “fourth drama,” using scatological humor to undermine the sententious rhetoric typical of the portal-quest topos without directly attacking the discourse that rhetoric delivers. The character of Sybill Trelawney in particular exists not to produce portal-quest effects but to travesty the seriousness and authority with which they are typically enacted. By doing so, per Bakhtin, Rowling preserves the effect of her portal-quest while also giving readers cause to pause and reflect on the ennobling effect of the topos as used by other writers. This reading demonstrates both a potential reason for the vividness and resonance of Rowling’s characters and accords her an important position within the broader rhetorical framework of modern fantasy.
Visualization and Empathy in Fiction Reading: The Significance of Diversity
Authors: Mackey Margaret
Published: September 2024

Abstract: It is easy to assume that people activate the same mental processes as they read. Contemporary brain science, however, offers new insights into the distinctive individuality of readers’ mental actions and responses. This article draws on neuroscience to analyze two aspects of reading activity frequently taken for granted: the assumption that all readers create describable forms of mental pictures, and the premise that reading fiction develops empathy and social awareness in the reader. Both assumptions are overly simplistic. This article explores elements of visualization and empathy in two recent young adult novels: Legendborn by Tracy Deonn and Firekeeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley. It investigates how distinctive authorly invitations lead to individual readerly responses, invoking Arthur M. Jacobs’ model of “background” and “foreground” reading and Jack Thomson’s scheme of reader development. The article concludes with a discussion of the implications of a broader understanding of diversity for pedagogy in the literature classroom.
Racial Historicism
Authors: Thomas George Porter
Published: September 2024

Abstract: This essay contends that the current critical turn toward premodern race and toward centering race within all period fields in literary studies risks reproducing the very racecraft it seeks to confront. If the current practice of literary historicism involves a wide effort to extend the lineages of racial oppression in order to expand the possibilities for literary criticism to claim to resist those forms of oppression in the contemporary scene, it also marks an unfortunate return to theorizations of race as an eternal phenomenon instead of a historically discrete and mutable ideological formation. Surveying recent work in what the author terms the panracial turn, the essay argues that we are seeing not only a disciplinary return to metaphysical race but also a racial metaphysics: history working the way race does, through physiognomy, DNA, and bloodlines. In closing, the essay suggests briefly that recent work in Black studies offers the beginnings of an alternative to this racial historicism paradigm.