bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
STAKEHOLDERS PERCEPTIONS OF PRINCIPALS’ LEADERSHIP STYLE PRACTICES IN SECONDARY SCHOOL IN NORTH CENTRAL GEOGRAPHICAL ZONE, NIGERIA
Authors:   Federal University Lokoka, Nigeria, Omuya-Anibasa Florence , Adegbite Ibrahim Peter ,   Federal University Lokoka, Nigeria, Duze Daniel Ali ,   Federal University Lokoka, Nigeria
Published: June 2023

This study examines stakeholder’s perception of principals’ leadership style practices in Secondary Schools in North Central Geographical zone, Nigeria. Two objectives guided this study and the objectives are; assess stakeholders”, perceptions of principals’ autocratic leadership style practices in secondary schools in North Central Geographical zone, examine stakeholders perceptions of principals visionary leadership style practice in secondary schools, the research questions and hypotheses are in line with the objectives. Relevant literature was reviewed. descriptive survey was used as the research design. The population was 92,089 which comprised 3,167 principals, 61,825 teachers, 1,665 Ministry of Education officials and 25,432 PTA Officials. The total sample size was one thousand four hundred and twenty-six 1,426. That consisted of 345 principals, 382 teachers, 321 MOE officials and 378 PTA officials. Self-structured questionnaire titled ‘Stakeholders’ perception of Principals’ leadership style practices in Secondary Schools’ (SPPLSPSS)” was used to elicit responses with reliability coefficient of 0.72 using split half test. Perceptions of respondents were analysed using frequency counts for research questions answered and analysis of Variance (ANOVA) for hypotheses analyzed to express the results of the findings. The findings show that principals that practices autocratic leadership style gives deadline on every assignment given to teacher and students with full compliance. The finding also revealed that principals that practices visionary leadership style helps in increasing oneness work place. The study concludes that principals should varies that leadership style to enhance effectiveness.
ADOPTABLE STRATEGIES IN MARKETING AND MARKET OUTCOMES: EXAMINING THE PERFORMANCE OF SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES IN KOGI STATE
Authors:   Kogi State University, Anyigba, Nigeria, Nafiu Ibrahim Olawale , Olanrewaju Makinde Hassan ,   Kogi State University, Anyigba, Nigeria, Nafiu Akeem Tunde ,   Kogi State University, Anyigba, Nigeria
Published: June 2023

This study focused on adoptable strategies in marketing and market reaction with reference to Small and Medium Enterprises in Kogi State. The study examined marketing strategies, customer’s satisfaction and the market share of SMEs in Kogi State. Descriptive research design was employed. The study’ universe was 1,027 SMEs; from which the sample size of 142 was drawn. Multistage random sampling technique was applied. For data analysis, descriptive statistics, Multiple Regression and Correlation Matrix were used. Finding showed that specialization strategy (promotion strategy and price strategy) has significant effect on market share of SMEs in Kogi State. Finding further showed that relationship exists between differentiation strategy and customer’s satisfaction. The study concluded that specialization strategy takes care of how the best price is tagged, and that when SMEs focus on differentiation strategy (product quality, product content, operation process, and innovation) customers’ expectations will be met. The study recommended among others that SME owners should ensure that both promotion strategy and price strategy are not combined together as this can cause varying performance outcomes.
MONETARY POLICY MANAGEMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH IN NIGERIA: NEW LESSONS RELEARNED
Authors:   Federal College of Education, Abeokuta, Nigeria, Taiwo Adedayo Akinsanya , Tella Sheriffdeen. A ,   Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Nigeria, I.O Oseni ,   Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Nigeria
Published: June 2023

This research study examines the existing links between monetary policy management and economic growth in Nigeria within the period 1960-2018. An autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach was employed to evaluate the cointegration as well as the short-run and long-run estimates. The findings showed that a long-run relationship exists between monetary policy and economic growth within the periods understudied. Concerning the estimated parameters, the results reported that interest rate, deposit rate and liquidity ratio positively drive short-run output growth whereas, monetary policy rate, Treasury bill rate, and cash reserve ratio have a direct impact on short-run output growth in Nigeria. Meanwhile, in the long-run, monetary policy rate and deposit rate enhance real income growth, while Treasury bill rate and cash reserve ratio negatively affect output growth of the Nigerian economy. On the policy front, there is need for the apex bank to harmonize the expansionary part of the monetary policy with the contractionary part during the implementation process of the recent Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) in 2017 aimed at turning the slump situation around and also projecting a strong growth rate in GDP at 4.5%.
RIGHT TO A CLEAN ENVIRONMENT: THE NIGERIA PERSPECTIVE
Authors:   Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Nigeria, Adeola Olufunke Kehinde
Published: June 2023

Right to a clean environment is what every living thing including human beings should enjoy in a society. It is a right that should not be compromised in any way. People who are not in a society where this right is enjoyed live in total discomfort and susceptible to various forms of illnesses and death in the extreme situation. This paper examines what right to a clean environment is all about and looks at some laws governing this in some jurisdictions and compared them to what is obtainable in Nigeria. In Nigeria, right to a clean environment is enshrined in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal republic of Nigeria as amended but it is in Chapter II of the said Constitution which makes it non-justiciable. Effect of the non-justiciability is considered together with the impact on the Nigeria society at large. This paper goes further to make appropriate recommendations.
TERTIARY INSTITUTION STUDENTS AND CRIME INCIDENTS IN KOGI STATE NIGERIA: AN EMPIRICAL INSIGHT.
Authors:   Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, Nigeria, Toluhi James Oluwafemi
Published: June 2023

The rise in incidences of youth/students’ involvement in violent crimes in Nigeria makes the discourse under reference not just topical, but also timely. Kogi state which is the focal point of this study has experienced a surge in security threats raging from kidnaping, armed robbery, political thuggery, and cultism among others, in the last ten years. This study seeks to investigate the extent of student’s involvement in security breaches in Kogi State, investigate factors responsible for such involvements and to determine its effects on the students and the state in general. The study adopts a survey design involving the use of questionnaire and interviews and found that, students/youths are the key players in crimes in kogi state. It was equally established that poverty, drug/substance abuse, peer pressure, bitter/Do-or-Die politics among others, are factors responsible for student’s involvement in crimes in Kogi State. The study therefore recommends that tertiary institutions should take issues of crime seriously as such, the security architecture of higher institutions should incorporate technologies and other such measures that could make the option of crime less appealing/enticing. The study further recommends that the curriculum of tertiary institutions be tweaked to incorporate the teaching and learning of Hands-on-skills that could keep students busy, productive and self-reliant, thereby making them less prone to crime and criminality.
NEXUS BETWEEN GOVERNMENT EXPENDITURE AND ECONOMIC GROWTH: EVIDENCE FROM NIGERIA ECONOMY (1995 – 2018)
Authors:   Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Nigeria, Babalola Rapheal Adesunloro
Published: June 2023

This study examined the Impact of Government Expenditure on Economic Growth in Nigerian from 1995 to 2018. The main objective is to examine the impact of government expenditure on economic growth in Nigeria. The study adopted ex-post facto research design. It used annual time series data extracted from the Central Bank of Nigeria statistical bulletin and annual report. The data collected were analyzed using multiple regression techniques of the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The analysis used Gross Domestic product as dependent variable. Government Capital Expenditure, Government Recurrent Expenditure and Money Supply as the independent variables. The result revealed that Government Capital Expenditure with a p-value of 0.542 which is statistically insignificant, has a negative impact on the growth of Nigerian economy. Government Recurrent Expenditure with a p-value of 0.009 which is statistically significant has a positive impact on economic growth in Nigeria. Money Supply with a p-value of 0.000 which is statistically significant, has a positive impact on economic growth in Nigeria. The study recommended that the Government should ensure that capital expenditure and recurrent expenditure are properly managed in a manner that it will raise the nation’s production capacity and accelerate economic growth. Also, Government should monitor the contract awarding process of capital projects closely, to prevent against over estimation of execution cost.
IMPACT OF ICT ON TEACHING AND LEARNING. A CASE STUDY OF SOME SELECTED UNIVERSITIES IN NIGERIA.
Authors:   Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria, J.O Adewoye , N.A. Salau ,   Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
Published: June 2023

This study examined the impact of ICT on teaching and learning a case study of some selected universities in Nigeria. This study adopted the simple random sampling technique in the three selected public universities from Lagos State, Ogun State and Oyo State. Two hundred and thirtyfour questionnaires were completed and returned out of three hundred questionnaires distributed to all the three universities. The principal tools for analysis of data are carried out with the help of PPMCC and multiple regression analysis. The results reveal that that: there is a positive relationship between ICT and teaching and learning in Nigerian universities, ICTs offer great opportunity for teaching and learning to solve teaching and learning problems, the study further concludes that there is positive relationship among factors influencing the adoption of ICT (personal characteristics, organizational capacity, support factor and availability factor) and Teaching and learning in Nigeria university. In the light of the above conclusions, the study recommended that Nigerian universities should improve its organizational capacity (i.e. funding and infrastructures) among the factors that influences ICT adoption in Nigerian universities. In addition, Nigerian universities should continue to promote the uses of ICT for teaching and learning.
DETERMINANTS OF FINANCIAL REPORTING QUALITY IN NIGERIA NON-FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS (2010-2018)
Authors:   Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria, C.O. Olaoye , Oluwatoyin, O.A Akintayo ,   Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
Published: June 2023

This study focused on the investigation of determinants of quality of financial report in nonfinancial institutions in Nigeria. To achieve this objective a time series research design was adopted to gather data from the annual financial report of the selected institutions from the periods 2010- 2018. Moreover, from the 106 non-financial institutions quoted on the stock exchange market in Nigeria only 32 institutions were purposively selected for the study on the basis of certain criteria’s. In addition, both descriptive and inferential statistics tools of Panel regression analysis were used for the study. The result of the pre-estimate estimate conducted for the study revealed that the random effect estimate was better for the study. Meanwhile, the result of the study obtained indicated that there were determinants of financial reporting quality in the selected nonfinancial institutions. In particular, it was found that audit firm tenure, audit fees, joint audit and audit firm independence were determinants of financial reporting quality. The study concluded that audit firm characteristics might be indicators of financial reporting quality in the selected institutions.
In-laws, communication, and other frustrations: The challenges of intercultural marriages
Authors: Machette Anthony T. , Cionea Ioana A.
Published: June 2023

Although intercultural marriages are increasing in number every year, there is still little research examining the unique aspects of these relationships. This paper reports results from two exploratory studies into the challenges individuals within intercultural marriages in the United States face and how they manage them. Study 1 (N = 93) explored the most reported challenges in intercultural marriages. Findings indicated these challenges included family, finances, communication, time spent together, and clashes in cultural expectations/traditions. Study 2 (N = 83) examined the consequences of such challenges, how couples managed them, and how these challenges affected their marriage satisfaction. Findings revealed the most identified consequences were arguing about challenges and the emotional toll associated with such arguments. Most couples developed effective ways to manage such challenges without reducing their marital satisfaction, except when challenges involved their in-laws. A discussion of these results is included, along with directions for future research.
Essential Oils Antimicrobial Activity in Limiting the Development of Main Spoilage Fungi Associated with Stored Cereals
Authors: Zaharia Roxana , Oltenacu Viorel , Fătu Viorel , Petrişor Cristina
Published: June 2023

Fungal pathogens can significantly reduce the potential yield and seed quality of cereal crops, the major risk is contamination with toxic fungal secondary metabolites known as mycotoxins, which have negative consequences in human and animal health. The influence of different concentrations of the oregano, basil and thyme essential oils on the development of the mycelium of Fusarium, Aspergillus, Penicilium species was analyzed and action of inhibiting the capacity of molds’ occurrence and development at stored wheat and maize. The chemical composition of the all essential oils was determined by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis. Oregano and basil essential oils inhibit completely development of Fusarium spp., Penicillium sp. and Aspergillus sp. pathogens at 2000-5000 ppm concentration exerted a fungitoxic effect. However, thyme oil in 10-100 µl/ml concentration was the strongest in fungicidal activity of the tested Fusarium, Penicilium, Aspergillus, species. In conclusion, all essential oils used in this study could be suitable for applications in the food industry to control molds and improve the safety of stored grain.
The Behavior of Some Sunflower Hybrids to White Rust (Albugo tragopogonis) under Brăila County Conditions
Authors: Chiriac Andreea-Raluca , Joița-Păcureanu Maria , Rîșnoveanu Luxița , Cristea Stelica
Published: June 2023

As a part of an extensive study on the behavior of different genotypes of sunflower to solid and liquid fertilizers and plant protection products to the attack of the main parasitic agents, this paper presents the dynamics of Albugo tragopogonis. Symptoms during the asexual phase were expressed, symptoms that became visible as white pustules on the infected plants. Although the tested fungicides were not approved to control this pathogen, a reduction in the development of the pathogen have been observed in the variants where have been applied the fungicides. The best percentage calculated for effectiveness was the fertilization variant Last N (250 g/l N) in two doses where was applied the fungicide Tanos WG (0.4 kg/ha) with 86.96%, followed by the variant Urea 46% N (90 kg/ha a.s.) where was applied the fungicide Sfera 535 SC (0.4 l/ha) with an effectiveness of 78.26%. Even if in 2019 no genotype of the sunflower under study showed symptoms, in 2020 all nine hybrids showed symptoms with different frequencies and intensities. The impact of white rust on Romania commercial sunflower crops has not been determined. Research needs to be done to find possible seed treatment that will keep the disease at bay and protect the sunflower crops.
FRAGILIDADES DO COMBATE À LAVAGEM DE DINHEIRO NAS REGIÕES DE FRONTEIRA
Authors: Seolim Jakson dos Santos , Matinc Sirineu
Published: June 2023

Lavagem de dinheiro, evasão de divisas, descaminho, regiões de fronteira são palavras que se podem associar, facilmente, ao artigo a seguir. Busca-se entender as possíveis fragilidades no combate à lavagem de dinheiro, em especial do ponto de vista de instituições financeira de fronteiras. Analisa-se a importância do colaborador e um paralelo com as novas operadoras de mercado financeiro, as fintechs. Utiliza-se uma metodologia de pesquisa bibliográfica, análises de cenários e ferramentas de combate, além da atualização com a nova circular do Banco Central (BACEN), em que são explícitos direcionamentos para agências de localização de risco, fronteiras. Ao final, concluímos com a necessidade de uma presença nas regiões de fronteiras, de forma intensa, com tecnologia, com atuação pontual de colaboradores.
TRAVESSIAS GLOBAIS II
Authors: Loureiro Claudia
Published: June 2023

As mudanças climáticas acarretam externalidades que alteram consideravelmente a conformação do mundo como o redesenho das fronteiras entre países ricos e pobres, com uma dinâmica que suprime as fronteiras do perigo e com a desapropriação ecológica. Esta realidade se conecta com a lógica da produção social da riqueza, que é acompanhada pela produção social dos riscos, com a distribuição destes, o que faz com que surjam conflitos sociais de alcance global, como os decorrentes das mudanças climáticas. O objetivo geral do artigo é analisar como a relação entre mudanças climáticas e sociedade de risco acarreta o redesenho das fronteiras do mundo globalizado. Por sua vez, o objetivo específico do artigo é analisar como o redesenho das fronteiras decorre da tese da metamorfose do mundo, de Ulrich Beck, de acordo com a perspectiva ecológica dos direitos humanos. A relevância do trabalho se justifica pelas graves consequências das mudanças climáticas experimentadas pela comunidade internacional, destacando-se o risco como elemento conector entre os países ricos e pobres, entre Norte e Sul Global, entre centro e periferia. Optou-se pelo método dedutivo, com a técnica da documentação indireta e com o procedimento de análise da lei, da doutrina e da jurisprudência, partindo-se das premissas de que as mudanças climáticas têm origem na globalização dos riscos para se concluir com a tese da metamorfose do mundo. O trabalho tem a finalidade de responder ao seguinte problema: a sociedade catastrófica ambiental enseja a metamorfose do mundo embasada na perspectiva ecológica dos direitos humanos?
TRÂNSITOS FRONTEIRIÇOS DE PESSOAS TRANSGÊNEROS
Authors: Ruiz Melissa Salinas
Published: June 2023

Durante décadas os estudos sobre trânsitos migratórios conceberam os migrantes como uma massa uniforme. Essa perspectiva se fazia incapaz de compreender as peculiaridades da experiência migratória decorrentes dos recortes de gênero, raça, etnia, etc., razão pela qual cresceu o número de pesquisas destinadas a realizar essa análise. Esta proposta se justifica na lacuna teórica acerca dos trânsitos migratórios de pessoas transgêneros, entendidas como aquelas que não estão de acordo ao gênero que lhes foi socialmente imposto. Portanto, o objetivo deste trabalho é apresentar algumas questões referentes à migração de sujeitos transgêneros na contemporaneidade, especialmente diante do contexto pandêmico. Assim, inicia conceituando gênero, cisgênero e transgênero a partir de Butler (2004), Preciado (2004) e Jesus (2012). Logo, discute sobre as implicações de ser transgênero na atualidade, tomando por base o Brasil e os dados produzidos pela ANTRA (2021). Finalmente, recorre a Fonseca (2020) e Vale (2005) para tecer algumas considerações relacionadas à migração de pessoas transgêneros, expondo como a pandemia agudizou a segregação sofrida por essa população. Conclui que os fatores que influenciam a experiência migratória de transindivíduos são múltiplos, razão pela qual devem ser incentivadas pesquisas voltadas a compreendê-los. Apenas a partir desse trabalho poderá se articular a efetiva inserção social dos imigrantes transgêneros.
GEOPOLÍTICA DA ENERGIA NA FRONTEIRA BRASIL - PARAGUAI
Authors: Mesquita Marcos , Marinho Nicolly , Carneiro Camilo Pereira
Published: June 2023

O Tratado de Itaipu, assinado em 26 de abril de 1973, que formalizou a implantação de uma hidrelétrica binacional entre Brasil e Paraguai no rio Paraná, tem validade de 50 anos, que se encerra em 2023. Principal hidrelétrica da América Latina, Itaipu Binacional constitui um elemento chave na geopolítica regional. A hidrelétrica forneceu, em 2021, 8,4% da energia consumida no Brasil e 85,6% da energia consumida no Paraguai. Em 2023, os dois países renegociarão o anexo “C” do tratado, estabelecendo novas regras para o preço da energia que o Paraguai fornece para o Brasil, assunto que já configura um dos principais temas da diplomacia brasileira. Nesse sentido, face à importância estratégica da hidrelétrica na geração de energia dos países e no processo de integração regional, o presente artigo analisará sob a ótica da Geografia e Comunicação, a geopolítica da energia na fronteira Brasil Paraguai e seus desdobramentos.
DESCAMINHO DE VINHOS E O COMPORTAMENTO OPORTUNISTA DOS AGENTES ECONÔMICOS
Authors: Salvo Mauro
Published: June 2023

O artigo busca esclarecer como os incentivos no mercado de vinhos finos no Brasil geram comportamentos oportunistas, tanto por parte dos consumidores como dos ofertantes e do governo. Propõe-se com base em conceitos da teoria microeconômica, primeiramente entender os incentivos existentes em toda a cadeia do descaminho de vinhos no Brasil, explicar o comportamento dos agentes, dadas as oportunidades criadas pelas falhas de mercado e propor o que seria necessário para mitigar o problema. A estrutura de incentivos estabelecida induz conduta de rent-seeking, em maior ou menor grau, nos principais participantes deste mercado. A análise será baseada na teoria econômica do crime para elucidar que ganhos atrativos em relação aos custos, aliados a probabilidade remota de ser detectado e punido criam ambiente favorável ao descaminho. Ao final espera-se ter esclarecido que o combate ao crime de descaminho para ser eficaz deverá atuar aumentando os custos para o delinquente associado à redução dos ganhos. Outrossim, pretende-se demonstrar que o consumidor de vinho de descaminho não é o único problema na estrutura de incentivos.
S – and T– Matrix Formulations for 2–Port Devices
Authors: Malu Siddharth Savyasachi
Published: June 2023

We present the S– and T–matrix formulations of device characteristic for a 2–port device. We demonstrate that while the S–matrix formulation is intuitive and corresponds to physical quantities, the T–matrix formulation is better when it comes to handling multiple devices in series. We then compute the translation from S–matrix to T–matrix formulations and vice–versa.
Conocimientos y actitudes bioéticas de las enfermeras de UCIante la donación en asistolia controlada durante la pandemia Covid 19
Authors: Egidos Palazón Aaron , Sánchez-Garcia Ana Belen , Rodriguez Rabadán María Dolores
Published: June 2023

Limitation of life-sustaining treatment is practice in Critical Care Units and related to controlled donation after circulatory death. This is a challenge for nursing professionals, who are not familiar with this type of donation

Objective: Analyze the knowledge and bioethical attitudes of nursing personnel in limiting life support treatment and donation after circulatory death.

A descriptive and transversal study was carried out in the ICU of the Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca. Data collection was carried out through a validated questionnaire during the Covid-19 pandemic alert.

Twenty-eight nurses participated in the study. Seventy-five percent are familiar with the LTSV and believe that LTSV decision should be made jointly by physicians and nurses but indicate that in daily practice this is not the case. 41,2% expressed ethical concerns about withdrawing life support treatment. 89,3% agree with organ donation after LTSV but only 42,8% would apply organ preservation measures prior to the patient's death.

Nursing professionals do not participate in decision-making at the end of their patients' lives and they show a lack of information regarding intensive care oriented towards organ donation. However, they have bioethical attitudes oriented to respect the autonomy and dignity of the person

La limitación del tratamiento de soporte vital es práctica frecuente en Unidades de Críticos. Se relaciona con la donación en asistolia controlada y supone un reto para profesionales enfermeros, que no están familiarizados con esta donación y están implicados en situaciones que suscitan debate bioético.

Objetivo: Analizar conocimientos y actitudes bioéticas de Enfermería en la limitación del tratamiento de soporte vital y donación en asistolia controlada.

Estudio descriptivo y transversal en UCI del hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca, datos a través de cuestionario durante el Estado de Alarma de Covid-19.

Participaron 28 enfermeros. 75% está familiarizado con LTSV y considera la decisión de LTSV conjunta entre médicos y enfermeros, indican que en la práctica diaria no es así. 41,2% expresa tener conflictos éticos para retirar tratamiento de soporte vital. 89,3% está de acuerdo con la donación de órganos tras LTSV, sólo un 42,8% aplicaría medidas para la preservación de órganos previas al fallecimiento del paciente.

Enfermería no participan en la toma de decisiones al final de la vida y expresan falta de información respecto a los cuidados orientados a donación de órganos. Poseen actitudes bioéticas orientadas al respeto de la autonomía y dignidad, aunque muestran conflictos morales con algunos procedimientos.
Derechos humanos y colectivos vulnerables. Protección frente a la persecución por motivos religiosos
Authors: Andreu Martínez María Ascensión
Published: June 2023

The policies of the European Union in the attempt to implement a Common European Asylum System are confronted with increasing restrictions on the entry of foreigners into its member countries, particularly in the case of asylum seekers on religious grounds. Therefore, the necessary reforms in this area must avoid the drift of such policies towards strict security terms and lead them towards respect for the right to religious freedom and its connections with other fundamental rights, based on the principle of solidarity as an essential principle of the entire European Union system.

Las políticas de la Unión Europea en el intento de aplicar un Sistema Europeo Común de Asilo, se ven confrontadas con las restricciones cada vez mayores de entrada de extranjeros en los países que la conforman, en particular en el caso de solicitantes de asilo por motivos religiosos. Por ello, las necesarias reformas en esta materia deben evitar la deriva de dichas políticas hacia estrictos términos de seguridad y conducirlas hacia el respeto del derecho de libertad religiosa y sus conexiones con otros derechos fundamentales, basados en el principio de solidaridad como principio esencial a todo el ordenamiento de la Unión Europea.
Den tredje store -isme
Authors: Lassen Aske Juul
Published: June 2023

I de senere år har alderismen (aldersdiskrimination) på det danske arbejdsmarked været til debat. Men arbejdsmarkedet er kun et af de steder, hvor alderismen kommer til udtryk. Gennem etnografisk feltarbejde udforsker artiklen, hvordan alderisme opleves blandt ældre mennesker. Forfatteren analyserer, hvordan alderisme internaliseres og ofte bliver en del af ældre menneskers selvbillede.I mange tilfælde opleves alderismen som subtil og acceptabel, mens den i andre opleves som konkret og marginaliserende. Artiklen belyser alderismens mange fremkomster og bidrager til diskussionen om, hvor udbredt alderisme er, og hvad alder betyder for vores måder at omgås på.
Adoption Behavior of Farmers towards Improved Pineapple Production Practices in Uttar Dinajpur District of West Bengal, India
Authors: Mondal Sudatta , Mazhar Syed H.
Published: June 2023

The study was conducted in the Uttar Dinajpur district of West Bengal with the objective of assessing the extent of adoption behavior among farmers towards improved pineapple production practices. A purposive sampling technique was employed, and a total of 120 respondents were selected from seven villages within the Chopra block. Data was collected using a pre-tested schedule and analyzed using appropriate statistical tools and techniques. The findings of the study revealed that the majority of respondents (65.00%) fell within the middle age range. In terms of adoption, about pineapple production technology, 50.83 percent of the respondents had a medium level of adoption, followed by 26.67 percent with low level of adoption and 22.50 percent with high level of adoption. The study also established positive and significant relationships between the independent variables, such as age, educational qualification, annual income, extension contact, mass media exposure, scientific orientation, and risk orientation, and the adoption behavior of farmers. Overall, the study provides valuable insights into the adoption behavior of farmers in the study area and highlights the importance of various factors in influencing their level of adoption of improved pineapple production practices.
Studies on Effect of Different Levels of Yeast and Sugar on Quality Cider Production from Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.)
Authors: Lotha Chenithung Z. , Joseph Annjoe V. , Kerketta Anita , Topno Samir E. , Bahadur Vijay
Published: June 2023

The present research work entitled “Studies on effect of different levels of yeast and sugar on quality cider production from pomegranate (Punica granatum L.)”. The study was conducted in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 8 treatments replicated thrice for a period of 90 days. The treatments were T1 (Pomegranate Juice 500 ml + Sugar 100 g + Yeast 1 g), T2 (Pomegranate Juice 500 ml + Sugar 100 g + Yeast 2 g), T3 (Pomegranate Juice 500 ml + Sugar 150 g + Yeast 1 g), T4 (Pomegranate Juice 500 ml + Sugar 150 g + Yeast 2 g), T5 (Pomegranate Juice 500 ml + Sugar 200 g + Yeast 1 g), T6 (Pomegranate Juice 500 ml + Sugar 200 g + Yeast 2 g), T7(Pomegranate Juice 500 ml + Sugar 250 g + Yeast 1 g), T8 (Pomegranate Juice 500 ml + Sugar 250 + Yeast 2 g). A significant decreasing trend was observed in Total Soluble Solids, pH and Specific Gravity while the Alcohol content, Acidity and the Sensory Qualities increased with increasing length of fermentation. From the statistical analysis of the above treatments, it was concluded that treatment T6 was found superior in respect of the parameters like Total Soluble Solids, Acidity, pH, Alcohol content and Specific gravity. When evaluating both chemical parameters and organoleptic properties treatment T6 consistently outperformed other treatments and emerged as the most favorable option.
The Anti-Oxidant Effects of Vitamins on Lead-Induced Reproductive Toxicity in Male Wistar Rats
Authors: Ogbu Ojeka Sunday , Zigabelbari Zabbey Victor , Data Cookey
Published: June 2023

Aim: The current study investigated the anti-oxidant effects of vitamins on lead-induced reproductive toxicity in male wistar rats.

Study Design: A total of 48 male Wistar rats divided into 6 groups of 8 rats per group were used in this study. Group 1 served as the positive control and was given normal animal feed and water ad libitum. Group 2 was the negative control and was administered 10mg/kg body weight of lead acetate (Pb) only, Group 3 was administered with 200mg/kg body weight of vitamin C only, Group 4 was given 1000IU/kg body weight of vitamin E only, Group 5 was given 10mg/kg body weight of lead and 200mg/kg body weight of vitamin C while Group 6 was given 10mg/kg body weight of lead and 1000IU/kg body weight of vitamin E. The administration of the test substances lasted for 4 weeks after which the animals were sacrificed. Blood samples were collected and assayed for reproductive hormones. Semen was also extracted from the testis for the assay of sperm parameters while the testis and epididymis were harvested for histological analyses.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in the Department of Human Physiology of University of Port Harcourt and it lasted for a period of 6 months.

Results: The results showed that lead significantly decreases the concentration of the reproductive hormones, decreases the sperm parameters and destroys the histological architecture of the testis and epididymis. The antioxidants were found to ameliorate the damages done by lead on the reproduction hormones, sperm parameters and the histology of the testis and epididymis.

Conclusion: It was therefore concluded that the anti-oxidants may be used as suitable substitutes to chelating agents in ameliorating lead-induced toxicity on the reproductive function of male wistar rats.
Aerosol‐Jet‐Printed Encapsulation of Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Basu Robin , Siah Kok S. , Distler Andreas , Häußler Felix , Franke Jörg , Brabec Christoph J. , Egelhaaf Hans-Joachim
Published: June 2023

Organic electronic devices (OEDs) are prone to oxygen‐ and water‐induced degradation and therefore need to be encapsulated with barrier materials. In this work, an aerosol jet (AJ)‐printing process is developed to coat perhydropolysilazane (PHPS) directly onto OEDs by adapting the print setup and systematically optimizing the process parameters. Furthermore, a novel curing process that converts PHPS to silica barrier layers is developed by combining damp heat (DH) exposure with subsequent vacuum–UV irradiation. This two‐step treatment is shown to be considerably faster and gentler than the state‐of‐the‐art curing processes and also yields a quantitatively higher conversion. Both the printing and the conversion process are fully compatible with OED devices, which is demonstrated by a damage‐free direct encapsulation of organic solar cells. The encapsulated cells show a significant reduction of degradation in DH conditions (65 °C/85% r.h.), maintaining >95% of their initial performance for >100 h. Complementary electroluminescence measurements reveal that the AJ‐printed barrier layers effectively prevent lateral water ingress into the devices. Herein, the proof of principle is provided that AJ printing can be used to print barrier layers directly onto OEDs and is thus an industrially highly relevant technology to precisely encapsulate such devices even on 3D objects.
Electronic Interpretation of Interlayer Energy Landscape in Layered Materials
Authors: Zhang Xin , Sun Junhui , Du Shiyu , Li Hao , Qian Linmao
Published: June 2023

The interlayer energy landscape of layered materials is essential to disassemble their structure–property relationships. However, a clear definition of interlayer electronic coupling that generally rules the interlayer energy landscape for their outstanding electronic and tribological properties, remains a matter of debate. Herein, diverse methods for electron coupling are evaluated to discriminate their feasibility to interpret interlayer sliding energy landscape for frictional sliding or stacking faults, by using density functional theory calculation of the layered models in the case of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs). It is discovered that the charge density evolution in dynamic stacking configurations dictates the interlayer energy landscape along the sliding pathway, challenging the prevailing belief that the energy corrugation arises from the nonuniform distribution of charge density or the charge density in the interface region. The present studies may open the way to disassemble the electron coupling principle underlying interlayer energy landscape for structure–property relationships as stacking faults, registry effects, even superlubric behavior in layered structures.
Spatial Reconstruction of Oligo and Single Cells by De Novo Coalescent Embedding of Transcriptomic Networks
Authors: Zhao Yuxuan , Zhang Shiqiang , Xu Jian , Yu Yangyang , Peng Guangdun , Cannistraci Carlo Vittorio , Han Jing‐Dong J.
Published: June 2023

Single cell RNA‐seq (scRNA‐seq) profiles conceal temporal and spatial tissue developmental information. De novo reconstruction of single cell temporal trajectory has been fairly addressed, but reverse engineering single cell 3D spatial tissue organization is hitherto landmark based, and de novo spatial reconstruction is a compelling computational open problem. Here it is shown that a proposed algorithm for de novo coalescent embedding (D‐CE) of oligo/single cell transcriptomic networks can help to address this problem. Relying on the spatial information encoded in the expression patterns of genes, it is found that D‐CE of cell–cell association transcriptomic networks, by preserving mesoscale network organization, captures spatial domains, identifies spatially expressed genes, reconstructs cell samples’ 3D spatial distribution, and uncovers spatial domains and markers necessary for understanding the design principles on spatial organization and pattern formation. Comparison to the novoSpaRC and CSOmap (the only available de novo 3D spatial reconstruction methods) on 14 datasets and 497 reconstructions, reveals a significantly superior performance of D‐CE.
Manipulation and Optical Detection of Artificial Topological Phenomena in 2D Van der Waals Fe5GeTe2/MnPS3 Heterostructures
Authors: Chen Xiaodie , Wang Haoyun , Li Manshi , Hao Qinghua , Cai Menghao , Dai Hongwei , Chen Hongjing , Xing Yuntong , Liu Jie , Wang Xia , Zhai Tianyou , Zhou Xing , Han Jun‐Bo
Published: June 2023

2D ferromagnet is a good platform to investigate topological effects and spintronic devices owing to its rich spin structures and excellent external‐field tunability. The appearance of the topological Hall Effect (THE) is often regarded as an important sign of the generation of chiral spin textures, like magnetic vortexes or skyrmions. Here, interface engineering and an in‐plane current are used to modulate the magnetic properties of the nearly room‐temperature 2D ferromagnet Fe5GeTe2. An artificial topology phenomenon is observed in the Fe5GeTe2/MnPS3 heterostructure by using both anomalous Hall Effect and reflective magnetic circular dichroism (RMCD) measurements. Through tuning the applied current and the RMCD laser wavelength, the amplitude of the humps and dips observed in the hysteresis loops can be modulated accordingly. Magnetic field‐dependent hysteresis loops demonstrate that the observed artificial topological phenomena are induced by the generation and annihilation of the magnetic domains. This work provides an optical method for investigating the topological‐like effects in magnetic structures and proposes an effective way to modulate the magnetic properties of magnetic materials, which is important for developing magnetic and spintronic devices in van der Waals magnetic materials.
Tough PEG‐only hydrogels with complex 3D structure enabled by digital light processing of “all‐PEG” resins
Authors: Anindita Safira Noor , Conti Riccardo , Zauchner Doris , Paunović Nevena , Qiu Wanwan , Buzhor Marina Green , Krivitsky Adva , Luo Zhi , Müller Ralph , Grützmacher Hansjörg , Qin Xiao‐Hua , Leroux Jean‐Christophe , Bao Yinyin
Published: June 2023

Digital light processing (DLP) of structurally complex poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogels with high mechanical toughness represents a long‐standing challenge in the field of 3D printing. Here, we report a 3D printing approach for the high‐resolution manufacturing of structurally complex and mechanically strong PEG hydrogels via heat‐assisted DLP. Instead of using aqueous solutions of photo‐crosslinkable monomers, PEG macromonomer melts were first printed in the absence of water, resulting in bulk PEG networks. Then, post‐printing swelling of the printed networks was achieved in water, producing high‐fidelity 3D hydrogels with complex structures. By employing a dual‐macromonomer resin containing a PEG‐based four‐arm macrophotoinitiator, “all‐PEG” hydrogel constructs were produced with compressive toughness up to 1.3 MJ m−3. By this approach, porous 3D hydrogel scaffolds with trabecular‐like architecture were fabricated, and the scaffold surface supported cell attachment and the formation of a monolayer mimicking bone‐lining cells. This study highlights the promises of heat‐assisted DLP of PEG photopolymers for hydrogel fabrication, which may accelerate the development of 3D tissue‐like constructs for regenerative medicine.
Cobalt‐Catalyzed Multi‐Substituted Alkene Synthesis from 1,3‐Dithiolanes and Grignard Reagents
Authors: Davidson Timothy A. , Anam Samiha , Shi Heyao , Dixon Darren J.
Published: June 2023

The cobalt‐catalyzed reaction between 1,3‐dithiolanes and Grignard reagents, for the efficient synthesis of multi‐substituted alkene products, is described. The method was applicable to a variety of benzylic dithiolane substrates, affording di‐, tri‐, and tetra‐substituted 1,1‐diaryl alkene products in good to excellent yields. The use of benzylic Grignard reagents with aryl aldehyde‐derived 1,3‐dithiolanes enabled access to natural product‐derived stilbene architectures with exquisite E selectivity. The operational simplicity, low catalyst loadings, and scalability demonstrate the general utility of the method.
Health‐economic innovation headroom in mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer’s diseas
Authors: Handels Ron , Jönsson Linus
Published: June 2023

Background

Estimating health‐economic impact of new therapies for prodromal Alzheimer’s disease (AD) requires extrapolating short‐term effects on surrogate markers of efficacy to long‐term clinically relevant outcomes. This requires assumptions on the nature of the treatment (symptomatic versus disease‐modifying) and depends on the target population (which varies in disease progression associated to biological subtypes). We aim to estimate the innovation headroom (potential value) of AD treatment in mild cognitive impairment (MCI), describe the impact of assumptions on treatment nature (symptomatic/disease‐modifying) and disease progression (fast/slow progressors), and discuss challenges for health‐economic evaluation of future AD treatments; to ensure patients timely access treatment innovations.

Method

The IPECAD open‐source decision‐analytic model was used to estimating time spent with MCI, mild, moderate and severe dementia, discounted quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs) and costs, under different treatment strategies. Innovation headroom was estimated by simulating a usual care strategy, and compare it with a strategy reflecting a fictive disease‐modifying treatment with 100% efficacy, and a strategy reflecting a fictive 100% efficacious symptomatic therapy; in preventing all individuals to progress to dementia.

Result

The innovation headroom analysis resulted in 4.1 additional QALYs and k€13 lower costs of care with disease‐modifying, and 0.8 additional QALYs and k€71 lower costs of care with symptomatic therapy. The higher QALY gain for disease‐modification is mainly explained by an indirect effect on mortality, resulting in a 5.5 year increase in life expectancy. The innovation headroom was about twice as large in the persons with fast progression compared to persons with slow progression in MCI. The disease‐modifying therapy mainly generated improved health (QALY gains), while the symptomatic therapy mainly generated savings in costs of care; which is contingent on their mortality assumptions.

Conclusion

The potential health and economic benefit of (non‐)pharmacological interventions in MCI is substantial. However, its dependency on assumptions related to treatment nature argues for research efforts to better understand the relation between surrogate and long‐term outcomes. Its dependency on target population indicates a potential for individualized treatment based on profiles of disease progression. Finally, we recommend incorporating age‐related comorbidities as a result of the relatively large life years gained.
Role of natural herbs in management of psychological disorders prodromal to dementia
Authors: Khan Saara Ahmad Muddasir
Published: June 2023

Background

Depression is one of the major psychological disorders and a prodromal sign of dementia and may worsen with metabolic disorders like diabetes mellitus. The present study was done to evaluate efficacy of saffron (Saf) and chamomile (Cham) against diabetes associated depression and memory impairment in murine model and through clinical trial in human volunteers visiting psychiatry clinics at the Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan.

Method

In murine study, 50 old diabetic albino wistar rats divided into 5 groups as healthy control (HC), diabetic control (DC), Saf water decoction (WD) 10mg/kg, Cham water decoction (CWD) 30mg/kg and Saf+Cham WD 5mg/kg+15mg/kg for two weeks. The behavioral analysis was done through and novel object recognition tests (NOR). Afterwards, animals were sacrificed for blood and brain samples collection. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04935671 of 100 depressed patients were given Saf+Cham tea (20mg+1mg) as an adjuvant therapy for depression and were assessed through PHQ9 scale. The tryptophan level was examined through ELISA.

Result

In animals, treatment of Saf and Cham significantly reduced glucose levels (F4, 45 = 9.847, p<0.05). However, tryptophan (F4, 45 = 8.25, p<0.05), acetylcholine (F4, 45 = 69.9, p<0.05) and serotonin levels (F4, 45 = 116.200; p<0.05) in the brain were increased with improved NOR performance (F4, 45 = 55.718, p<0.05).The clinical trial also revealed significant improvement in PHQ 9 scale (F3, 80 = 20.036, p<0.05) with maintenance of tryptophan levels in the serum (F3, 80 = 5, p<0.05).

Conclusion

The study was validated through murine model study showing augmentation of insulin and hence tryptophan entry in the brain through saffron and chamomile administration triggering synthesis of serotonin in brain. The other possible route may be the herbal modulation through acetylcholine levels supplementing serotonin levels in brain. The effects of ACh generated by both populations of cholinergic cells are mediated through pre‐ and postsynaptic receptors on a wide range of neuronal subtypes across the brain which contribute to multiple cortical and hippocampal functions. The clinical trial also showed strong modulating effects of herbal tea on metabolic profile and precursor amino acid with alleviation of depression, a prodromal sign of dementia.