bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Aesthetics of Arabic Calligraphic and Islamic Formations in the Curtain of the Door of Kaaba: A Critical Artistic Study
Authors: Alashari Duaa , Berghout Abdelaziz
Published: July 2024

The Kaaba's covering carries inherited aesthetics with an ancient historical and cultural character. The curtain for thedoor of the Holy Kaaba is an integral part of the design of the Kiswa of the Holy Kaaba, as it covers the door of the HolyKaaba. The door curtain of the Holy Kaaba is considered an immortal and unique Islamic artistic painting in terms ofthe uniqueness of its design. Therefore, this study aims to apply the Western theory of art criticism (Feldman) to Arabiccalligraphy and the calligraphic formations embodied in the curtain of the door of the Holy Kaaba to demonstrateaesthetic and artistic design values. The approach followed in this study is Feldman's approach to art criticism.Feldman's methodology is considered a systematic and integrated critical methodology for describing and analyzingartworks. In addition, this methodology enhances the aesthetic experience to understand art, its dimensions andvalue. The tool used in the study is observation. The study population consists of linear and decorative units withmultiple styles. The study concluded that the curtain of the door of the Holy Kaaba is characterized by an abundanceof calligraphic formations and compositions and Islamic decorative plant units.
Analyzing the Sablettes Promenade's User Satisfaction in Algiers to Improve the Quality of Coastal Promenades in Algeria
Authors: HANNOUFA Nada , TOUBAL Wissam , ALKAMA Djamel
Published: July 2024

One of the most interesting achievements of Algiers Bay nowadays is the Sablettes Promenade, which was developedaccording to a strategic plan for 2031-2035. It has a lot of features and amenities that have drawn a wide range ofpeople, but there are many negative factors influencing the experience of its users. The aim of this study was to exploreusers'perceptions by analyzing their satisfaction using a post-occupancy evaluation survey, executed with a sample of271 users, and the results were processed with SPSS Statistics version 26. The results clearly showed the level of users’satisfaction with the following criteria: economy of use, management, attractiveness, safety and security, mobility,accessibility, urban ambience, urban composition, arrangements, and environmental quality, while detecting factorsthat could improve user satisfaction in each criterion. This enabled us to extract characteristics for the design anddevelopment of future urban coastal promenades in Algeria.
Exploring Urban Heritage: Leveraging Space Syntax for the Digitization and Preservation of Climat de France in Algiers
Authors: Cherfi Khadidja Khelil , Merzelkad Rym , Benacer Hamza
Published: July 2024

Research on modern heritage is attracting interest nowadays. For this research, we focused on the large housing estateof Climat de France, designed by Fernand Pouillon. We aim with this participation to provide alternatives like digitalinstruments to enhance these dwellings, articulating our research on the following problematic: How can thecontribution of space syntax be useful for carrying out a diagnosis and digitization of the Climat de France? Theresearch will be based on an integrated urban approach that combines spatial and geographical analysis. We will focuson understanding the different elements of space (roads, public spaces, the built environment, and physical attitudes)and describing the relationships between them in terms of connectivity, accessibility, nodality, and density, theseparameters will therefore require the use of software such as depthmapx. In conclusion, the study of the Climat deFrance using syntaxe could be an effective lever for safeguarding and valorization of this modern heritage.
The Haven Hood: Redefining Portable Units for Communities in Need
Authors: Ksaiby Nour , Ibrahim Doaa
Published: July 2024

According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, over a 100 million people worldwide were forciblydisplaced from their homes, facing life-threatening poverty, suffering from overcrowding, lack of proper food andwater, lack of sanitary methods, mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stressdisorder. This study provides a solution suitable for the temporary crisis: a shelter with essential units includingresidential, educational, healthcare, and outdoor facilities; to increase refugees' self-reliance and improve their lifeconditions. The best architectural solution for refugees follows transitional shelter typology, which has movable,adaptable, transformable, and interactive features. A shipping container provides a unit that has the previous featuresin addition to sustainable approaches and flexibility; this makes it the best choice to serve the study goal and to achievethe three main elements of this study, shelter, flexibility, and sustainability, creating a prototype that can adaptdifferent needs.
Contemporary Extension Proposal for Adaptive Reuse Industrial Archaeology: Minasın / Minas Mill Example
Authors: GÖKARSLAN Ayşe Betül , İPEK Emre
Published: July 2024

Industrial archeology deals with the pre-industrial, industrial revolution and the periods after this revolution. One ofthe industrial archeology structures is the mills. The issue of protecting and ensuring the sustainability of mills as ruralindustrial heritage comes to the agenda quite frequently. However, as is the case with other historical buildings thatare in ruins, reintegration work cannot be carried out in mills due to the lack of restitution resources in restorationapplications to today's comfort conditions. In such cases, since the building cannot maintain its original function today,a contemporary addition is designed to suit its new function. Within the scope of this study, conservation suggestionswere made for the Minasın Mill, which remained idle in Isparta, and a contemporary addition was designed. Firstly,the building's survey was taken, and then modern annexes and building elements were designed in 3D and suggestionswere made for its use.
Bridging the Gap in Traffic Safety via SWOT and TOWS Analysis within QSPM Framework
Authors: Farah Sakariye Adam , Alas Mustafa
Published: July 2024

The main focus of the current study is to enhance traffic safety policies by utilizing SWOT and TOWS analyses and togain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges within traffic safety management systems. The authors haveassessed several safety measures by utilizing the Quantitative Strategic Planning Matrix. This methodology combinedexpert evaluations with a methodical investigation to determine the best ways to improve traffic safety. According tothe QSPM result, the application of sophisticated technologies in infrastructure (S6-T4), with a score of 5.88, is rankedsecond, behind traffic law enforcement (S1-O6), which has the highest score of 6.51. On the W2-T3 scale, the harmfulconsequences of inadequate access to public transportation on the usage of private vehicles received the lowest ratingof 3.98. The study's findings are significant because urban planners and legislators can use them to determine whichtraffic safety interventions should be prioritized.
Qurio-City: Seeking Refuge in Unconventional Habitats
Authors: Kunju Koshy Noel John Koshy , Goel Vani , Kumar Pooja Lalit
Published: July 2024

The project aims to design a regenerative and resilient space centre for urban environments. It explores theconcept of architecture as a responsive machine, adapting to urban, socio-economic and environmentaldynamics. Drawing inspiration from natural systems, the project involves creating three-dimensional prototypesto analyse ecological infrastructure. In a unique approach, the exploration extends to developing chainprototypes inspired by the collaborative and efficient behaviours observed in weaver ants, further enriching theproject's understanding of interconnected ecological systems. These assemblies contribute to the developmentof a new architectural paradigm that dynamically responds to the ever-changing environment. The envisionedspace centre, with its human-centric design, sustainable features, and adaptable technology, becomes atransformative hub within the urban landscape. It is poised to integrate new space exploration technologies,adjust to changes, and symbolise a progressive step towards emergent ecological morphology in architecture.
Urban Market Metamorphosis: A visionary Design for Community Engagement
Authors: Yadav Mansi , Jindal Krishika , Kumar Pooja Lalit
Published: July 2024

The city of Delhi transcends time, a harmony of rich history and pulsating contemporary life, unfolding its narrative asthe very extension of people’s souls. The heart of Delhi are its markets, bridges connecting diverse cultures throughchanging times. The markets allow people to become threads of a communal fabric, knitting tales of sharedexperiences. Prioritizing community input through interviews and site studies establishes a clear understanding oflocal desires. The visionary urban market design titled “Mehfil” creates versatile spaces, incorporating traditional rolesto meet the city’s diverse needs. The market is a fusion of enchanting urban design and romantic allure, blendingmodern functionality with local culture. Aiming for social engagement and economic growth , the market features aplethora of spaces hosting varied activities. Through multi-functional spaces, charming pathways, green spaces andcourtyards, artistic murals and intricately decorated facades, “Mehfil” turns every visit into a celebration.
Developing Urban Design Guidelines for Creating Sustainable Healthy Neighbourhoods
Authors: Raj Aparna B , Kini Manoj , Roshini K V
Published: July 2024

The research focuses on community engagement and environmentally friendly methods in the creation of healthyneighbourhoods. Public health issues, environmental degradation, and social inequality are on the rise in urban areasas a result of rapid urbanization. A possible solution to these problems is a growing understanding of the role thatgood urban design can play in improving people's health and happiness. In order to identify important ideas andstrategies for making healthy built environments, this study examines case studies of successful healthy communitiesfrom all over the globe, such as Medellin, Colombia; Vauban, Freiburg, Germany; and Copenhagen, Denmark, amongothers. In order to build healthier, more sustainable communities, the research presents a set of thoroughrecommendations based on public health research, stakeholder participation, and urban design ideas. In order topromote social inclusion, preservation of the environment, and equal access to resources, the standards include awide range of topics related to urban planning, such as connectivity, the supply of green space, mixed land use, andcommunity participation. By drawing from a variety of research fields, this research builds to what is already knownabout healthy neighbourhoods, vibrant neighbourhoods that all individuals can be a part of.
Silhouette Study Through Management Plans in World Heritage Sites
Authors: ÖZKARACA ÖZALP Nuray , HALAÇ Hicran Hanım
Published: July 2024

The protection and sustainability of heritage sites in today's cities is an important issue in our country as well as allover the world, and it is a big problem to protect and manage these areas to the future. In this direction, sitemanagement plans prepared for heritage sites are of great importance. High or incorrect construction has becomeone of the most important problems of many world heritage sites and threatens the original silhouettes, vantagepoints and urban panoramas of cities, causing these values to lose their meaning and importance over time. For thisreason, many cities, areas or structures of important cultural heritage are removed from the UNESCO World HeritageList or included in the List of World Heritage in Danger. The issue of preserving the silhouette is an important issuethat needs to be addressed in Turkey, where the assets worth protecting are unique in number and value. In thisstudy; In order to determine whether studies have been carried out to preserve the original features such as generalappearance, silhouette, and scenic points that contribute to the Outstanding Universal Value of heritage sites,content has been scanned with the keywords "silhouette", "landscape" and "view".
An Examination of the Renewal Process of Traditional Diyarbakır Suriçi Houses within the Scope of Environmental Sustainability Principles
Authors: Gülcemal Beritan Adar , Taygun Gökçe Tuna
Published: July 2024

While traditional houses were produced with public experience and environmental qualities in the past, since theend of the 20th century, the negative effects of the construction sector on the environment have been realized, andthe relationship between buildings and the environment has begun to be examined on an international level. Theregion where the Traditional Diyarbakır Houses are located, which is the focus of this study, entered a transformationprocess following conflicts in 2015. Literature reviews have revealed a lack of studies on the examination of newhouses built in place of demolished traditional structures on a building scale. This study aims to identify principlesof environmental sustainability and energy-efficient building design parameters through literature review and toexamine new houses in accordance with these parameters. The results indicate that the new building productionprocess was developed to adapt in form to traditional houses whose relationship with the environment was foundto be successful but remained weak in its relationship with environmental sustainability principles. In today'scontext, where environmental sustainability studies are accelerating, it is crucial to reveal the characteristics of therelationship between traditional buildings and new buildings with the environment on the same site.
Sistem Informasi Manajemen Pelayanan Posyandu Menerapkan Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
Authors: Heriyantoro R. Didik , Sirait Rosana Junita , Maulaida Rezki
Published: July 2024

Posyandu Cahaya 1 adalah fasilitas layanan kesehatan yang fokus pada pemeriksaan kesehatan ibu dan anak, termasuk tumbuh kembang anak dan imunisasi untuk bayi dan balita di RW.001 Kelurahan Kutabaru, Kecamatan Pasarkemis, Kabupaten Tangerang, Banten. Saat ini, pendataan di Posyandu ini masih dilakukan secara manual, seperti pencatatan di kertas, yang rentan terhadap kehilangan atau kerusakan dan menyulitkan pengolahan serta pelaporan data. Untuk mengatasi masalah ini, penulis merancang sistem informasi berbasis komputer yang diharapkan dapat menggantikan sistem konvensional. Sistem ini dirancang menggunakan metode OOAD dan pemodelan UML, serta dibangun dengan bahasa pemrograman PHP dan web server Xampp. Hasilnya adalah sistem yang mempermudah kader dalam mengelola data, menyerahkan laporan kepada Puskesmas, dan memungkinkan orang tua balita untuk melihat riwayat kesehatan anak mereka.
Sistem Pelayanan Perbaikan Mesin Produksi Berbasis Web Pada PT XYZ
Authors: Hakim Zainul , Rochman Abdur , Hasoloan Oscar
Published: July 2024

Perkembangan teknologi informasi dan telekomunikasi telah mempengaruhi berbagai bidang pekerjaan, termasuk pelayanan perbaikan mesin di perusahaan. PT XYZ, yang mulai beroperasi pada September 2010 dengan 31.000 karyawan, masih menggunakan metode konvensional untuk layanan perbaikan mesin. Tingginya produktivitas sering menyebabkan mesin mengalami error dan kerusakan, yang jika tidak segera diperbaiki dapat mengurangi hasil produksi. Selain itu, belum adanya prosedur standar membuat mekanik kesulitan dalam memprioritaskan dan menangani masalah. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis, merancang, dan membuat sistem informasi yang dapat mengatasi masalah tersebut di PT XYZ. Metode yang digunakan adalah SDLC dengan model waterfall. Sistem ini dikembangkan menggunakan bahasa pemrograman PHP dan database MySQL. Hasilnya adalah sistem informasi perbaikan mesin berbasis web yang memungkinkan perbaikan dilakukan dengan cepat dan tepat sesuai dengan prioritas dan urgensi masalah.
“Philosophical suicide” during the climate crisis: how belief influences the response to climate change
Authors: Coetzee Juan , Loubser Ruth Ananka
Published: July 2024

When approaching the climate crisis, there appears to be a universal tendency towards philosophical suicide. When faced with the sheer scale of the problem at hand, falling for the façade of easy solutions seems to be an expected response. However, this tendency towards philosophical suicide may complicate the fight against the climate crisis by drawing attention away from the problem at hand. To approach this problem, the overarching purpose of this article is to determine how the change in the philosophical approach to the absurd may assist in framing the fight against climate change. During the investigation into this problem, it was found that philosophical suicide is a real problem that may be chosen when easy solutions are offered for a problem that sufficiently threatens the individual’s state of existence. Furthermore, this philosophical suicide threatens the fight against climate change due to it leading individuals to believe lies perpetrated through strategies like greenwashing. This is of crucial importance since philosophical suicide threatens the fight against the climate crisis by not allowing individuals to consciously approach the problem. However, there does appear to be some hope. If the newer generations are sufficiently educated on the topic, there may be a chance that philosophical suicide, as well as the prevailing sense of dread that appears to be rampant in the younger generations, can be countered. In this way, educating individuals may enable them to consciously approach the absurdity of the climate crisis and, in doing so, revolt against it.
A decolonial reading of Bernstein’s sociology of education in transforming the university in South Africa
Authors: Hlatshwayo Mlamuli Nkosingphile
Published: July 2024

In this paper, I reclaim Bernstein’s pedagogic device to think through and theorise higher education transformation and decolonisation in the global South. I am especially persuaded by Bernstein’s work on the pedagogic device and the endless possibilities it provides in re-thinking the public university and what it could be. Using South Africa as a case study, I focus on the decolonial calls sparked by the #FeesMustFall and #RhodesMustFall protests in 2015/2016 around the need to critique, evaluate and dismantle the neoliberal university in South Africa. I suggest that Bernstein’s ideas of the field of production, the field of recontextualisation as well as the field of reproduction offer an intersectional, and dialectically useful, lens in making epistemic, ontological and methodological intervention(s) in transforming the university in South Africa. I end the paper with some concluding remarks on the discursive usefulness of Bernstein’s work in transforming the public university in the global South.
Incompleteness as a framework for convivial scholarship and practice in healing
Authors: Nyamnjoh Francis B.
Published: July 2024

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Adam Smith y las colonias
Authors: Coutinho Mauricio C.
Published: July 2024

En La riqueza de las naciones, en especial en el capítulo siete del Libro IV, Adam Smith estudia el marco general de las políticas coloniales europeas desde fines del siglo XV hasta su época. No pierde de vista la tradición clásica (Grecia y Roma) para el análisis del fenómeno, pero entiende que se trata de un fenómeno nuevo, vinculado al mercantilismo y la ‘fiebre del oro’. Es ambiguo en su evaluación de la población precolombina en América, especialmente por su bajo nivel productivo, pero es crítico de la colonización española y portuguesa por la ineficiencia generalizada a la que conduce el uso de mano de obra esclava. Esto contrastaba, según Smith, con el perfil predominante de las colonias británicas en América del Norte, basadas en mano de obra libre, aunque ello omitía la institución de la servidumbre por contrato y la mano de obra esclava de origen africano en las colonias del sur de Norteamérica. En relación con las colonias francesas, Smith percibía en ellas un mejor trato a los esclavos, pero este derivaba del temor a la administración colonial en el marco de un Estado absolutista, mientras que los británicos confiaban ante todo en el predominio de sus derechos de propiedad. El artículo concluye que, para Smith, la política colonial inglesa era eficiente que la de otros poderes coloniales. Tal superioridad se fundaba en la incompatibilidad entre mano de obra esclava y progreso.
A γ-Ray-emitting Blazar at Redshift 3.64: Fermi-LAT and OVRO Observations of PKS 0201+113
Authors: Lei Hai , Zhang Ying-Kang , Jiang Xiong , Kiehlmann S. , Readhead A. C. S. , Chen Liang , Liao Neng-Hui , An Tao
Published: July 2024

High-redshift (z > 3) γ-ray blazars are rare, but they are crucial for our understanding of jet evolution, γ-ray production and propagation, and the growth of supermassive black holes in the early Universe. A new analysis of Fermi-LAT data reveals a significant (5σ), spectrally soft (Γ ≃ 3.0) γ-ray source in a specific 4 month epoch, cospatial with PKS 0201+113 (z = 3.64). Monitoring of PKS 0201+113 at 15 GHz by the Owens Valley Radio Observatory 40 m telescope from 2008 to 2023 shows a prominent flare that dominates the radio light curve. The maximum of the radio flare coincides with the γ-ray flare, strongly suggesting an association (p-value = 0.023) between the γ-ray and the radio sources. PKS 0201+113 is only the third γ-ray blazar to be identified with z > 3.5, and it is the first such object to be identified by the detection of quasi-simultaneous γ-ray and radio flares. The jet properties of this peculiar blazar have been investigated. A detailed study of a two-zone leptonic model is presented that fits the broadband spectral energy distribution. An alternative scenario is also briefly discussed.
Erratum: “Systematics in the Cepheid and TRGB Distance Scales: Metallicity Sensitivity of the Wesenheit Leavitt Law” (2024, ApJ, 961, 166)
Authors: Madore Barry F. , Freedman Wendy L.
Published: July 2024

Updates and corrections are made to a number of numerical entries and their references in Table 1 of the published article. Updated plots of the final run of the comparison of the tip of the red giant branch (TRGB) and Cepheid distances with metallicity, as seen in the lower panels of Figures 1 and 2 in the published article, are shown in the composite figure given here (Figure 1). The main conclusion of the published article, that there is no statistically significant correlation of the zero-point of the Cepheid period–luminosity relation with metallicity, is unchanged. The updated “statistically flat” regression is now found to be Δμ

o
(Cepheid − TRGB) = −0.028 (±0.019) × ([O/H] − 8.50) − 0.014 (±0.042).
The herpetofauna of the Sporades Islands (Aegean Sea, Greece): New discoveries and a review of a century of research
Authors: Foufopoulos Johannes , Roussos Stephen , Kalogiannis Stamatis , Kalb Samuel , Strachinis Ilias , Brock Kinsey M.
Published: July 2024

The Sporades are one of the most biologically important archipelagos in the Aegean Sea (Greece) and have received priority conservation over the last 50 years. However, despite numerous early efforts, its herpetofauna is only partially described, resulting in many distributional gaps that have prevented adequate understanding and management of the resident species communities. We review one century of bibliography from the Northern Sporades and combine this information with a review of museum specimens and insights from numerous extensive field surveys over the last near-decade to provide for the first time a comprehensive picture of the reptiles and amphibians of the archipelago. We report here on 26 new island records and find that the herptile communities of the region are largely derived from the herpetofauna of the nearby Thessaly mainland, with only a few introduced taxa. There is also a small but significant set of endemic taxa in the archipelago. Island species richness declines with decreasing island size and increasing duration of island isolation. Herptile communities on smaller islands are progressively nested subsets of the communities on larger islands. The presence of reptile species depends sensitively on the condition and management of native ecosystems. While non-aquatic species maintain largely healthy populations, most populations are under pressure from the combined effects of rampant tourist development, the destruction and degradation of rare wetland habitats, and the abandonment of traditional agricultural landscapes. We provide recommendations regarding sustainable management of the local reptile and amphibian populations.
On Linnaeus’ (1764) butterfly type materials missing from the Museum of Evolution of Uppsala University (Section of Zoology) and the case of Papilio hermione
Authors: Balletto Emilio , Barbero Francesca , Bonelli Simona , Casacci Luca P. , Dapporto Leonardo
Published: July 2024

We briefly analyse the history of Queen Ulrika’s and of Linnaeus’ butterfly collections. We show that the type materials of some species were likely moved from Queen Ulrika’s to Linnaeus’ collection before 1803. We provide evidence that Honey and Scoble (2001) correctly designated the lectotypes of 101 of the 159 species listed in Linnaeus’ (1764) publication. We likewise conclude that, although it did not respect of the prevailing concept of the species, the lectotype of Papilio hermione was validly designated by Kudrna (1977); consequently, the neotype of P. hermione designated by Russell and Vane-Wright (2024) is invalid.
L’art de tirer à la ligne. Le dialogue dans le roman-feuilleton du xixe siècle
Authors: Mombert Sarah
Published: July 2024

Dès le début de la publication de romans en épisodes dans les journaux quotidiens en 1836, les critiques constatent que les romanciers du feuilleton tirent à la ligne en multipliant les dialogues, ce qui alimente l’idée d’un dévoiement industriel de la littérature par le journal. En s’appuyant sur des exemples tirés des romans-feuilletons publiés par Alexandre Dumas, Eugène Sue et Paul Féval, cet article analyse les causes de l’invasion du roman par le dialogue, dans le contexte spécifique de la production littéraire pour la presse périodique, soumise aux règles du calibrage et de l’écriture en collaboration. Fortement dialogué, le feuilleton produit un effet de dramatisation qui le met au diapason de l’actualité journalistique. Entretenant le désir de lire « la suite au prochain numéro », le dialogue contribue ainsi à faire entrer le roman dans l’ère des fictions sérielles.
Autopsie du « choc biographique » vécu par des étudiants en gestion à l’occasion d’un cours sur la décroissance
Authors: Mesny Anne , Abraham Yves-Marie , Marleau Noémie
Published: July 2024

Les initiatives se multiplient au sein des écoles de gestion pour intégrer une éducation aux grands enjeux sociaux et environnementaux actuels et pour amener les étudiants à envisager un autre rapport au monde. Peu de recherches se sont attardées aux impacts de ces initiatives sur les étudiants. Nous avons mené une étude qualitative auprès d’étudiants qui ont suivi un cours sur la « décroissance » dans un programme de maîtrise d’une grande école de gestion québécoise. À partir d’un cadre sociologique inspiré des travaux de Berger et Luckmann, nous analysons les « chocs biographiques » vécus par ces étudiants à l’occasion de ce cours qui les a bousculés, et les effets de ces chocs sur leurs vies personnelle et professionnelle à court, moyen et long termes. Nos résultats soulèvent plusieurs questions concernant la manière de former des étudiants en gestion aux grands enjeux environnementaux et sociaux.
Causes of Energy Crises Post-COVID-19 Situation
Authors: Khan Muhammad Mahroof , Ali Shujahat , Ashraf Shagufta
Published: July 2024

The chapter encircles the situation that arose after the COVID-19 pandemic. It aims to investigate factors to deal with such pandemics in the future and suggest countermeasures. Global economies suffered irreparable losses in terms of energy utilization, bringing the world into a new era of geopolitical tensions. These circumstances make energy regulations difficult. The investment in the energy sector was also significantly lower than expected. The world needs to find feasible avenues in alignment with the present challenges. We must prioritize the use and sharing of energy-related knowledge and practices in developing and developed parts of the world. As economies recuperate from the pandemic, new challenges in the energy sector have emerged. They were optimistic about creating a more promising energy future through appropriate policies and investments. It recognizes the pivotal function that individuals, corporations, and governments can perform in alleviating the impact of such crises. The chapter has proffered valuable insights and motivation to act towards a more secure and sustainable energy future.
Local Economic Development as a Catalyst for Agricultural Growth and Poverty Relief Strategy
Authors: Rulashe Tando , Ramolobe Kutu
Published: July 2024

In rural South Africa, the enduring legacies of apartheid, including poverty and limited opportunities, persist. This chapter delves into how agriculture can drive local economic growth and development, despite challenges like resource scarcity and inadequate infrastructure. It explores how leveraging agriculture can alleviate poverty. Drawing on theories like systems theory and community-based development, it examines interventions to uplift rural communities. Using a mixed-method approach with an interpretive paradigm and an exploratory design, the chapter conducts a systematic review of secondary data sources, including scholarly publications and official government documents. Despite persistent challenges, findings indicate governmental efforts to support informal and smallholder farmers in enhancing their livelihoods and contributing to LED. Government support for small farmers is acknowledged, but obstacles remain. The chapter emphasizes stakeholder collaboration to enhance skills, infrastructure, and community empowerment for sustainable development.
Leveraging Spatial Data Infrastructure for Enhanced Municipal Planning
Authors: Ahmad Munir , Ali Asmat , Hussain Hammad
Published: July 2024

The significance of spatial data infrastructure (SDI) in municipal planning in Pakistan cannot be overstated, as it can plays a central role in reshaping urban development endeavors. By amalgamating a variety of geospatial datasets and fostering cooperation among government bodies and stakeholders, SDI can facilitate well-informed decision-making, streamlined resource allocation, and heightened citizen involvement. In grappling with obstacles such as procedural delays, insufficient coordination, and limited resources, SDI emerges as a comprehensive framework that tackles the multifaceted challenges of urbanization, transportation, and environmental sustainability. Furthermore, through its emphasis on transparency, accountability, and citizen empowerment, SDI can ensure that planning endeavors are inclusive and attuned to the diverse needs of the populace.
Analysis of the Significance of Good Governance in Municipal Planning and Implementation
Authors: Maemu Emmanuel
Published: July 2024

This chapter focuses on the significance of good governance in municipal planning and implementation to develop changeable activities that may foster good governance during municipal planning and implementation. This chapter will seek to assess the obstacles that cause developmental projects to fail in South African municipalities. Municipal planning means the control and regulation of land use at a municipal level whereas implementation entails the requirement that all municipalities in the country develop and approve such plans to adequately respond to the needs. Good governance means the capacity of city councils and their partners to formulate and implement sound policies and systems that reflect the interests of local citizens, and to do so in a way that is transparent and inclusive of those with the least power and resources.
Longitudinal Intravascular Antibody Labeling Identified Regulatory T Cell Recruitment as a Therapeutic Target in a Mouse Model of Lung Cancer
Authors: Shanahan Sean-Luc , Kunder Nikesh , Inaku Charles , Hagan Natalie B , Gibbons Grace , Mathey-Andrews Nicolas , Anandappa Gayathri , Soares Shawn , Pauken Kristen E , Jacks Tyler , Schenkel Jason M
Published: July 2024

Anticancer immunity is predicated on leukocyte migration into tumors. Once recruited, leukocytes undergo substantial reprogramming to adapt to the tumor microenvironment. A major challenge in the field is distinguishing recently recruited from resident leukocytes in tumors. In this study, we developed an intravascular Ab technique to label circulating mouse leukocytes before they migrate to tissues, providing unprecedented insight into the kinetics of recruitment. This approach unveiled the substantial role of leukocyte migration in tumor progression using a preclinical mouse model of lung adenocarcinoma. Regulatory T cells (Tregs), critical mediators of immunosuppression, were continuously and rapidly recruited into tumors throughout cancer progression. Moreover, leukocyte trafficking depended on the integrins CD11a/CD49d, and CD11a/CD49d blockade led to significant tumor burden reduction in mice. Importantly, preventing circulating Treg recruitment through depletion or sequestration in lymph nodes was sufficient to decrease tumor burden, indicating that Treg migration was crucial for suppressing antitumor immunity. These findings underscore the dynamic nature of the immune compartment within mouse lung tumors and demonstrate the relevance of a temporal map of leukocyte recruitment into tumors, thereby advancing our understanding of leukocyte migration in the context of tumor development.
I Carabidi e i Cicindelidi del bacino idrografico del Torrente Scrivia
Authors: Bisio Luigi , Allegro Gianni , Monguzzi Riccardo , Giuntelli Piero
Published: July 2024

Tiger beetles and Ground beetles of the hydrographic basin of the Scrivia stream (Coleoptera: Cicindelidae, Carabidae). After a short illustration of the main geological as well as climatic and vegetational features of the hydrographic basin of the Scrivia stream, a synthesis of the researches carried out so far in this area is reported. A topographic catalogue of the 264 Tiger beetle and Ground beetle species recorded from this territory is provided, with notes regarding the ecology and distribution of the most interesting ones. Furthermore, the main observed assemblages are described.
Comprehensive Screening and Evaluation of Anti-gout Activity of Plantago asiatica L. through Integrated In vivo and In vitro Methodologies
Authors: Gao Hong-Xue , Liu Zhi-Qiang , Hou Zong , Song Feng-Rui , Xing Jun-Peng , Zheng Zhong , Liu Shu
Published: July 2024

Objective:

This study aimed to elucidate the active components and mechanisms of Plantago asiatica L. (PAL) in the treatment of gout.

Materials and Methods:

Based on its polarity, PAL was partitioned into three parts, P1, P2, and P3, through gradient elution using AB-8 macroporous resin columns. The primary constituents of these fractions include iridoids, phenylethanoid glucosides, and flavonoids. Subsequently, a comprehensive in vitro and in vivo screening and evaluation model was developed considering the fundamental pathological processes of gout, including the inhibition of uric acid (UA) production, augmentation of UA excretion, and anti-inflammatory effects. This model was used to analyze the anti-gout activity of P1, P2, P3, and the overall extracts derived from PAL.

Results:

All the PAL parts exhibited specific therapeutic properties as part of gout therapy. Specifically, the P2 part demonstrated the ability to diminish interleukin-1 beta levels, lower UA concentrations, suppress joint inflammation in rats, and restore abnormal parameters associated with gout, such as creatinine and urea nitrogen. These findings highlight the significant effect of P2 on gout treatment.

Conclusions:

Following a thorough assessment of the outcomes derived from diverse anti-gout experiments, P2 exhibited superior anti-gout properties compared to the remaining parts. P2 demonstrated a restorative effect on the aberrant parameters associated with gout, thereby comprehensively elucidating the therapeutic mechanism of P2 against gout. This study provides substantial evidence and serves as a reference for future investigations regarding the material foundation of PAL in gout treatment.
Vismione B Interferes with Trypanosoma cruzi Infection of Vero Cells and Human Stem Cell–Derived Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Sass Gabriele , Tsamo Armelle T. , Chounda Gwladys A. M. , Nangmo Pamela K. , Sayed Nazish , Bozzi Adriana , Wu Joseph C. , Nkengfack Augustin E. , Stevens David A.
Published: July 2024

Traditional African medicine is a source of new molecules that might be useful in modern therapeutics. We tested ten limonoids, six quinones, one xanthone, one alkaloid, and one cycloartane, isolated from four Cameroonian medicinal plants, and one plant-associated endophytic fungus, against Trypanosoma cruzi, the etiological agent of Chagas disease (CD). Vero cells, or human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC)–derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CM) were infected with T. cruzi trypomastigotes (discrete typing unit types I or II). Infection took place in the presence of drugs, or 24 hours before drug treatment. Forty-eight hours after infection, infection rates and parasite multiplication were evaluated by Giemsa stain. Cell metabolism was measured to determine functional integrity. In Vero cells, several individual molecules significantly affected T. cruzi infection and multiplication with no, or minor, effects on cell viability. Reduced infection rates and multiplication by the quinone vismione B was superior to the commonly used therapeutic benznidazole (BNZ). The vismione B concentration inhibiting 50% of T. cruzi infection (IC50) was 1.3 µM. When drug was applied after infection, anti-Trypanosoma effects of vismione B [10 µM) were significantly stronger than effects of BNZ (23 µM). Furthermore, in hiPSC-CM cultures, infection and multiplication rates in the presence of vismione B (10 µM) were significantly lower than in BNZ (11.5 µM), without showing signs of cytotoxicity. Our data indicate that vismione B is more potent against T. cruzi infection and multiplication than BNZ, with stronger effects on established infection. Vismione B, therefore, might become a promising lead molecule for treatment development for CD.
Developing Teachers through School-Based Leadership: A Case Study of One Rural Primary School in South Africa
Authors: Nhlumayo Buhle Stella
Published: July 2024

Contemporary thinking in scholarship observes that the framework of rural school teaching and leadership calls for customized attention owing to the contextual challenges that rural schools are faced with. This paper aims to examine the use of school-based leadership to develop primary school teachers, in a selected rural context. Supported by the interpretive qualitative paradigm, data was generated through a focus group interview with seven teachers and an individual face-to-face interview with the school principal from one selected rural primary school. Data were analyzed through thematic analysis. The findings revealed that although the school principal used open and effective leadership strategies to develop teachers to improve teaching and learning conditions, teachers still needed structured professional development programmes to enhance their teaching and improve learner outcomes. In light of the findings, this paper recommends a combination of leadership strategies from the school principal that will enhance teaching and learning while providing structured professional development. The paper advocates for the dual use of school-based leadership by the school principal to improve teaching and learning and teacher professional development.
Unpacking Challenges within South African Institutions of Higher Learning in Addressing Student Grievances: A Literature Review
Authors: Boboyi Asanda , Kang'ethe Simon Murote
Published: July 2024

The persistent episodes of violence have been a thorn in the flesh of many South African institutions of higher learning. This predicament has tarnished the reputation of these institutions and compromised the overall quality of education provided. Employing a qualitative narrative literature review as the methodology and the theory of anomie, this paper examines and delineates the challenges confronted by higher learning institutions in addressing student grievances. The findings reveal many factors motivating student grievances and subsequent campus protests. These factors encompass administrative and managerial deficiencies in handling student grievances, inadequacies in managing student financial challenges, distorted perceptions among students regarding their rights and responsibilities, and substandard student accommodation and learning facilities. The discourse presented herein aspires to influence a transformation in the operational frameworks of higher learning institutions. The researchers envisage that their insights will diminish instances of violence and catalyse policy shifts to mitigate student exclusion.
Results of a PhD Program in Medical Sciences in a Public South American University
Authors: Manterola Carlos , Leal Pamela , Otzen Tamara
Published: July 2024

Introduction: The number of doctoral programs in medical sciences and health professionals trained for clinical research is scarce, particularly in South America. The aim of this study was to describe the results of a doctoral program in medical sciences (DPMS) in a public South American university. Methods: Observational study. All cohorts in the program from 2008 to 2020 were included in the analysis. Outcome variables were graduation rate and scientific productivity of graduates in terms of publications in WoS and SCOPUS journals databases. Other variables of interest were student´s biodemographical and academic characteristics, and faculty members (n=11 professors) productivity (WoS and SCOPUS publications), Descriptive statistics were applied. Results: During the evaluation period 211 professionals applied to the DPMS program, 52 were accepted (24.6% acceptance rate), and 18 graduated (graduation rate of 58.1%). Graduate productivity was 160 papers (123 in WoS database and 44 in SCOPUS), adding up to an average of 9.2 publications per graduate. Median graduation time was 49 months. Faculty members´ (n=11) productivity totaled 474 scientific articles between 2016-2020 (450 in WoS database journals and 24 in SCOPUS database journals), adding up to an average of 40.9 publications per faculty member during that time period, the equivalent of an average of 8.2 publications per academic per year. Discussion: The results of a recent but consolidated PhD program in medical sciences are presented. We emphasize the acceptance and graduation rate, and the scientific productivity of both graduates and faculty members.

Keywords: Education, Graduate;, Medical, Graduate, Doctorate programs, PhD programs
PARTICIPATORY ECOLOGICAL THEOLOGY
Authors: Cui Renzhong
Published: July 2024

John B. Cobb Jr., a well-known theologian, philosopher, and environmentalist in the United States, has developed his participatory ecological theology from process philosophy to process theology. Some scholars believe it belongs to a distorted form of anthropocentrism, while others suggest it belongs to biocentrism. This study seeks to explore how participatory ecological theology from the perspective of John B. Cobb, Jr. based on a participatory ecological approach to the discourse of environmental ethical methods, especially from a theological perspective. However, through Cobb’s attention to and exploration of environmental crises and interactions with other environmentalists, his ecological theology is shown to be a new form of participatory ecological theology that recognizes the intrinsic value of all existence and affirms the participatory ecological order of nature. He challenges the traditional Christian doctrine of “dominion”. He points to a more responsible concept for humanity, that is, to serve all parts of the natural world as responsible creations, just as serving God.
Reflexiones sobre la IA desde el ámbito académico educativo
Authors: González-Geraldo José L. , Ballesteros José A.
Published: July 2024

Ante la despectiva coletilla final “y el resto es literatura”, atribuida enocasiones al matemático J. H. Poincaré, al ensayista Paul Valéry o inclusoal humanista Mario Bunge, normalmente siempre supeditada a una apologíaprevia de la ciencia exacta y la objetividad del conocimiento sobre otras aproximacionesa nuestras realidades, hemos creído oportuno abrir estas breveslíneas introductorias, precisamente, con literatura
cárcel del algoritmo
Authors: Gómez Rincón José Francisco
Published: July 2024

En este artículo nos proponemos mostrar como el funcionamiento de los algoritmos compromete el fundamento ontológico de las propias democracias al fundamentarse, los algoritmos, en una tecnología de agregación de intereses individuales que llevan a la creación de cámaras de eco que, a la larga, radicalizan a los ciudadanos en sus propias creencias e ideologías, impidiendo el debate y comprometiendo con ello la base sobre la que se sustenta toda posibilidad democrática: el respeto por la opinión del otro. La aplicación de los algoritmos acaba con toda posibilidad de debate racional sobre las diferentes posibilidades, limitando así su viabilidad en la aplicación al procedimiento democrático, lo cual hace que hablar sobre una democracia algorítmica se vuelva una contradicción in terminis
EFFECT OF DE-TOPPING ON VARIOUS DATES OF GROWTH PARAMETERS OF PEACH NURSERY PLANTS
Authors: Ali Yasir
Published: July 2024

The research study was carried out to examine the effect of de-topping parameters of peach nursery plant. The experiment layout was Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) at “Nuclear Institute for Food and Agriculture Peshawar” (NIFA) Research Farm during the year 2021.  On different dates de-topping were practiced (24 June, 30 June, 6 July and 12 July). The data revealed that the de-topping practice on 6 July showed significant results on days to sprout (65.33), bud success Percentage (94.83 %), number of leaves (251), number of branches (22) and internode length (7.36 cm), while practicing of de-topping on 12 July found better results in plant height (59.66 cm).  The minimum results showed in days to sprout (54), bud Success percentage (94.64), plant height (32.33 cm) and number of leaves (225.67) which were de-topped on 24 July. Hence for better bud take success on peach rootstock the de-topping were practice on 6 July is recommended.