bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Critical Analysis of Language and Power in Political Context
Authors: Zunera Memon  , Rizwan Ullah Khan  , Asif Raza*
Published: February 2025

This research piece offers a critical analysis of how language functions in capturing and exercising political power. Language, being a central feature of communication, surreptitiously intersects with power, forming a significant part of persuasion, and contributing to forming narratives, opinions, and ideology. Advocating a critical overview of the theme, this work aims to identify how political leaders and governing institutions utilize language as a tool for coordinating discussions, maintaining social hierarchies, and eradicating specific non-dominant groups from the public sphere. The paper starts with the clarification of main concept of the language manipulation in the political context, describing, how politicians employ active use of such tools as rhetoric, euphemism, and propaganda in order to mobilize the community in the support of the authority. It explores how language is used to silence the opposition, enhance repression, and uphold authoritarianism, especially in nations where censorship and propaganda are the rife, and doxing is usual practice. Moreover, the applied analysis also focuses on the function of discourse as masqueraded as power, which means it shows how language serves to create and maintain hegemonic discourses, silence other voices that can be viewed as potentially threatening, and perpetuate various forms of oppression. Thus, English categorization, as well as the exclusion of other entities, provides certain populations with a negative profile and discriminates against them, reproducing the power relations. However, the paper does not lose sight of the fact that language is also an arena of contestation and transformation, where the oppressed and the rebels fight power and injustice in discursive terms through language and instances of collective action. Thus, such forms of linguistic resistance as counter-stories, irony, and metaphor help people take their power back and challenge the oppressive power relations, thereby transforming the political landscape. Hence, this critical analysis emphasizes that pragmatics and discourse analysis are key to understanding how power ties to language, especially in politics. Language as a function of power relations can be used to oppress people and to suppress their voices; nevertheless it is not powerless when positioned within a struggle for change. To summarize the examination of the language function it is necessary to take a look at the specifics of how power is given and contested in political practices in consideration of the social function of language.
Keywords: Language, Power, Politics, Discourse Analysis, Social Function, Manipulation.
A Research and Analytical Review of the System of Justice and Policies of Peace During the Caliphate of Umar II (Hazrat Umar bin Abdul Aziz)
Authors: Dr. Naseem Akhter  , Sheema
Published: February 2025

Hazrat Umar bin Abdul Aziz was a handsome man. You were a scholar of your time. He had complete mastery over all sciences. During his reign, the personal government was transformed into a democratic government. He withdrew his nomination for the caliphate but accepted the caliphate after public opinion was expressed. His greatest wish was that Islamic democracy should remain permanent. Qasim bin Muhammad Abi Bakr, who was a non-Umayyad person, wanted to make him his crown prince. But it could not be done due to the strong opposition of Banu Umayyad. A short period of two and a half years was not enough for such a revolution. Therefore, he did not fulfill many intentions. Tried hard to remove the defects of personal government. Before him, the pioneers used to walk with the caliphs and they used to send greetings to them in the mosques like the Prophet. Abolished all these rituals. He was an example of Umar Farooq in every matter. And his example was in front of him. A just system was easy for Hazrat Umar Farooq because his tenure was close to Prophethood. And the Companions were also his supporters. But during the reign of Umar II, the situation was different. Earlier his family opposed him. He was completely alone in his environment. But despite these conditions, his government was of Islamic style. For this reason, the period of his reign is considered in the Rashidah Caliphate. Historians recognize him as the fifth Caliph after Hazrat Ali. He is also recognized as Majid-i-Aol. He was always aware of his responsibilities. He was always conscious of his responsibilities. Except for the stipulated stipend, he didn't take anything from Baitul-Mal. It was even considered a sin to heat water on the fire that burned in the official guest house, as he considered a sin to do so. At night, he would turn off the official lamp. His reign brought great happiness to his subjects. Poverty and bankruptcy ended. Civil war ended under your leadership. His style of government was liked by all kinds of people. There was peace everywhere.
Keywords: Hazrat Umar bin Abdul Aziz, Islamic democracy, Baitul-Mal, Hazrat Ali
A Rhetorical Analysis of the Speeches of Pakistani Prime Ministers Delivered at United Nations General Assembly in The Last Decade
Authors: Naeem Iqbal  , Dr. Said Imran  , Dr. Syed Sabih Ul Hassan
Published: February 2025

In the domain of rhetorical analysis, numerous researchers from various disciplines have currently shown a keen interest in the study of rhetoric. Particularly, these previously conducted studies paid due attention to the study of political discourses in diverse contexts.  Therefore, the present study aims to record that how Pakistani political leaders use language to influence and address global problems in their speeches at international context. Moreover, the study analyzed political speeches delivered by Pakistani Prime Ministers at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in the last decade. These political leaders from Pakistan include; Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Imran Khan, and Shahid Khaqan Abbasi respectively. Furthermore, the current study also aims to examine the rhetorical strategies used in these speeches, specifically emphasizing Aristotle's notions of ethos, pathos, and logos in order to comprehend their significance in political discourse(s). A descriptive-qualitative approach, particularly content analysis, is employed to analyze the rhetorical strategies and their implications in the arena of Political discourse analysis.  In the major findings of study, it is revealed that these speeches delivered by the aforementioned prime ministers, employed a range of rhetorical devices, viz. personal anecdotes, statistical data, emotional appeals, and logical arguments, to convey their communicative purposes effectively and informatively. It is pertinent to mention that, the study in hand also analyzed to unfold the ways in which these rhetorical strategies are crafted semantically and syntactically to enhance their persuasive power via language.  The findings also show that the chosen three Prime Ministers employed these rhetorical strategies in their speeches while similarities and differences were found in their approaches and implementations of the rhetorical strategies. For example, Shehbaz Sharif focused on credibility by using personal experience and statistics. Likewise, Imran Khan emphasized compelling emotions and logical arguments, and similarly Shahid Khaqan Abbasi emphasized ethical principles and global responsibility. Thus, these commonalities and differences highlight the diverse approaches of persuasion based on the global politics demands and preferences of the political speeches and the individual personalities of the leaders. Finally, this study suggests that future research would be conducted on other speeches by Prime Ministers Shehbaz Sharif, Imran Khan, and Shahid Khaqan Abbasi in other contexts to further comprehend political discourse strategies and practices. 
 Keywords: Rhetorical Analysis, Prime Ministers, Speeches, United Nations General Assembly, Pakistani
The Concept of Time in Khalida Hussain’s Short Stories: An Analytical Study
Authors: ڈاکٹرپرویز اختر نعیم  , ڈاکٹر عبدالستار ملک
Published: February 2025

Khalida Hussain is an eminent Urdu short story writer. She is considered among the founders of modern Urdu Fiction. The main themes of her fiction are existentialism, materialism, feminism, nostalgia, fear, terror, psychological and human inner complexes, concept of death and concept of time etc. There are many dimensions in her concept of time. It is an immutable and invincible reality. Our time (life) is decreasing in every second. Best time for a man is its youth and bad time is old age. No one is safe from its damages. The bad effects of time are mostly on females. Only death can overcome time.
Key words:  Khalida Hussain, stories, short stories, time, concept, analysis, analytical study
SOTTILE, messa a punto di un componente BIPV innovativo per l’integrazione architettonica
Authors: Aste N. , Del Pero C. , Leonforte F.
Published: February 2025

I sistemi fotovoltaici integrati negli edifici (BIPV) stanno suscitando un interesse crescente nel settore delle costruzioni, in quanto permettono di abbattere le emissioni di CO2, svolgendo al contempo funzioni tipiche dei componenti edilizi tradizionali, come l’impermeabilizzazione all’acqua. Tuttavia, i sistemi fotovoltaici tradizionali devono spesso affrontare sfide legate all’estetica e all’integrazione architettonica con componenti esistenti. In questo ambito, SOTTILE (SOlar Technological TILE), sviluppato nel progetto europeo H2020 HEART coordinato dal Politecnico di Milano, rappresenta una soluzione innovativa per trasformare con estrema facilità una falda o un tetto tradizionale in un generatore di elettricità solare. SOTTILE è un sistema formato da elementi componibili secondo la geometria e le dimensioni desiderate ed appositamente progettato per l’installazione su coperture a falda, in abbinamento con qualsiasi tipo di tegola. Può essere utilizzato, infatti, in sostituzione del manto in laterizio esclusivamente nelle porzioni destinate all’impianto solare, mentre le restanti porzioni del tetto possono essere rivestite con elementi tradizionali. Ciascun elemento di SOTTILE è formato da un supporto modulare in plastica riciclata, su cui si aggancia il laminato fotovoltaico. L’intero sistema ed i suoi sub-componenti sono progettati per essere montati e smontati rapidamente, agevolando notevolmente le pratiche di installazione, manutenzione e dismissione.
Desmoronar o horizonte
Authors: Bahia Lopes Myriam
Published: February 2025

A Serra do Curral situada no Quadrilátero Ferrífero[1] do Estado de Minas Gerais, tem sido objeto de explotação mineral ao longo dos últimos três séculos. A história da técnica de mineração nos permite ligar o local ao global do capitalismo mundial integrado e compreender a herança da economia colonial. O aumento do ritmo e da escala das operações acelera o risco para a estabilidade da Serra do Curral. O texto faz dialogar três registros, o acadêmico, o literário e o etnográfico que se completam. A noção de horizonte articula o corpo e o meio na compreensão de ser e de estar no espaço. O horizonte é dinâmico e participa do processo de subjetivação de cada habitante. Se o horizonte produz o espaçamento do ser, faria sentido desmoroná-lo?
Motivacija kupaca za kupnju poljoprivredno-prehrambenih proizvoda izravno od poljoprivrednika
Authors: Čehić Marić Ana , Težak Damijanić Ana , Oplanić Milan
Published: February 2025

Kupnja poljoprivredno-prehrambenih proizvoda izravno od poljoprivrednika oblik je prodaje proizvoda koji je u posljednje vrijeme sve atraktivniji kupcima. U radu su predstavljeni rezultati istraživanja provedenog na kupcima koji kupuju poljoprivredno- prehrambene proizvode izravno od poljoprivrednika (N=255). Podaci su prikupljeni putem online upitnika na uzorku kupaca s područje Istarske i Primorsko-goranske županije. Podaci su obrađeni putem deskriptivne statistike (opis uzorka), a napravljena je i analiza glavnih komponenti s ciljem identifikacije faktora motivacije za kupnju poljoprivredno- prehrambenih proizvoda putem izravne prodaje, te je putem ANOVE provjereno postojanje razlika između motiva za kupnju prema učestalosti i mjestima kupnje, te sociodemografskim osobinama ispitanika. Analizom glavnih komponenti identificirana su dva faktora, koji objašnjavaju 66,5 % varijance, a nazvani su karakteristike proizvoda i pogodnost. Utvrđene su određene statistički značajne razlike u motivima kupnje prema mjestima kupnje, te sociodemografskim osobinama ispitanika.
'La política del suelo
Authors:   Gobierno Vasco, Oñoro Pérez Fernando
Published: February 2025

Los niveles alcanzados por los precios del suelo, y la afectación que los mismos realizan sobre los bienes inmobiliarios, producen como consecuencia efectos negativos de índole social, económica y territorial. El marco legislativo y normativo existente, así como la situación del planeamíento y su ejecución, se presentan insuficientes para abordar las adecuadas y necesarias políticas de suelo que permitan paliar los efectos negativos que su escasez y la especulación con el mismo están produciendo. Las iniciativas legislativas del Gobierno Vasco y el Central pretenden mejorar esta situación. La necesidad de dotarse de este tipo de instrumentos legales adquiere gran importancia para la realización de estrategias territoriales y sectoriales, dentro del marco de acciones integradoras, que desarrollen una política de Ordenación Territorial.
La regeneración de los centro urbanos y la política de rehabilitación del parque de viviendas antiguo: efectos en el mercado de la vivienda
Authors:   Universidad del País Vasco, Esteban Galarza Marisol
Published: February 2025

Este artículo, a partir de un análisis de la evolución reciente de la planificación urbana y de la política de vivienda y de una discusión sobre el funcionamiento y problemática actual del mercado de vivienda, explica la aparición de las políticas de regeneración de los centros urbanos y discute las consecuencias sociales más importantes que estos planes de recuperación urbana van a generar si no se producen cambios radicales en la orientación de la política de vivienda.
Teoría y praxis de la localización empresarial: una necesaria adecuación
Authors:   Economista, Scheifler Mª Antonia
Published: February 2025

Este artículo trata de poner en evidencia la falta de adecuación que se manifiesta entre los modelos teóricos existentes en el ámbito de la localización empresarial y la dinámica de los procesos reales, generando efectos negativos en el diseño y ejecución de las políticas económicas de corte regional que tratan de incidir sobre la distribución espacial de las actividades económicas. Después de hacer un breve repaso de las distintas aportaciones teóricas que han tratado el problema de la localización industrial, se analiza la validez de dichas aportaciones a la luz de las tendencias actuales, señalando las tendencias y factores determinantes en el proceso de localización empresarial. Finalmente se aborda el tratamiento de la localización de las actividades de alta tecnología y de servicios en el que la inadecuación teórica, manifestado por la incertidumbre, puede imposibilitar el establecimiento de políticas regionales efectivas. La necesidad de articular de forma coordinada las actuaciones públicas con las tendencias que manifiesta la lógica empresarial debe animar a profundizar en el estudio y conocimiento de esta problemática.
'Inversión industrial y localización: una aproximación al caso de los municipios de la cuenca del Nervión
Authors:   Información y Desarrollo, del Castillo Jaime , Esteban Marisol ,   Universidad del País Vasco, Flores Francisco ,   Universidad del País Vasco
Published: February 2025

En el artículo se realiza un análisis de los datos agregados obtenidos de los proyectos de inversión presentados a la ZUR del Nevíón durante su período de vigencia. Se ha partido del supuesto de que en una zona tan significativa para la economía vasca, la mayor parte de las nuevas iniciativas empresariales intentaron obtener una ayuda ZUR, por lo que se pretende conseguir una primera aproximación a las tendencias que la inversión siguió en la CAPV en los años considerados. Las conclusiones más importantes son las relativas al alto coste en inversión de cada nuevo puesto de trabajo creado; la lentitud del proceso de diversificación sectorial, la predomínancia de actividades tradicionales y su desarrollo en base, fundamentalmente, a las potencialidades endógenas; la importancia relativamente escasa de la inversión extranjera y de la proyección internacional de las nuevas empresas; la debilidad del proceso de generación de servicios avanzados a la producción; así como el gran atractivo que para las empresas basadas en planteamientos más dinámicos ofrecen los municipios poco congestionados por las industrias tradicionales y donde se ha llevado a cabo un esfuerzo dirigido a ofrecer suelo industrial en buenas condiciones.
Cambios demográficos recientes en el País Vasco. El descenso de la natalidad
Authors:   Economista, Matienzo Iñaki
Published: February 2025

Este trabajo comienza revisando los cambios demográficos que se vienen sucediendo en el País Vasco de 1975. De entre todos ellos, el descenso del número de nacimientos aparece como el de mayor trascendencia futura. Para analizarlo, se estudian tanto la disminución de la nupcialidad como la de la fecundídad matrimonial, como causas más importantes. Al mismo tiempo, se sugieren algunos de los fenómenos sociales que pueden estar por detrás de estas variaciones. Sin una adecuada comprensión de los mismos, no es posible vaticinar si los cambios ahora observados serán duraderos o tendrán un carácter efímero.
PRÁTICAS EXITOSAS NA EDUCAÇÃO E AVALIAÇÃO DA APRENDIZAGEM: ESTRATÉGIAS ALTERNATIVAS PARA A SUPERAÇÃO DAS DIFICULDADES EDUCACIONAIS
Authors: Grigorio Erica Lamara Gomes Alves , Araújo Jucivan de , Porcino José Marciel Araújo , Santos Edilson Sousa dos , Fernandes Ismael Aristides , Florêncio Leonardo José Félix , Bernardino Francisca dos Santos Silva , Aires José Assis Alves , Brasileiro Mateus Salviano Farias , Izidro Maria Caroline Pereira , Amaral Mathielly Samara Ricarte do , Azevedo João Victor Guedes de , Silva Junior Edvaldo Alves da , Araújo Erivaldo dos Santos , Juca Claudiana Roberta , Ferreira Jaliene Rufino de Sousa
Published: February 2025

Learning assessment plays a fundamental role in the educational process, serving as an essential tool for identifying difficulties and promoting students' academic development. However, traditional assessment practices often fail to consider students' individual needs, perpetuating inequalities and limiting knowledge construction. Given this context, this study aimed to analyze successful learning assessment practices, focusing on the implementation of active methodologies, personalized assessment, and the integration of digital technologies to mitigate contemporary educational challenges. A qualitative approach was adopted, based on a systematic literature review and document analysis, including scientific articles, institutional reports, and official documents published between 2020 and 2024. Data analysis was conducted using content analysis techniques, allowing the categorization of key innovative assessment strategies. The results indicated that active methodologies, such as Problem-Based Learning (PBL), the use of digital portfolios, and gamification, foster greater student engagement and autonomy, positively impacting knowledge retention and socioemotional development. Additionally, personalized assessment, facilitated by adaptive digital platforms, was found to enhance the alignment of pedagogical strategies with students' individual needs. However, challenges persist, particularly regarding teacher training and school technological infrastructure, which directly affect the effectiveness of innovative assessment practices. Given these findings, the study recommends expanding teacher training programs, increasing investments in educational technology, and formulating public policies that promote more dynamic, equitable, and student-centered assessments. This research is expected to contribute to the improvement of assessment practices in basic education, encouraging the adoption of more effective and inclusive strategies capable of reducing educational inequalities and enhancing meaningful learning. Thus, it reinforces the need for an assessment model that transcends mere performance classification, assuming an active role in fostering a more just, accessible, and holistic education.
BIỂU TƯỢNG “VƯỜN” TRONG THƠ NGUYỄN BÍNH - NHÌN TỪ LÝ THUYẾT PHÊ BÌNH SINH THÁI 
 
Authors: Hoàng Thị Huệ , Trần Thị Thu Hà , Nguyễn Thị Linh , Nguyễn Thị Ngọc Viên , Hoàng Thị Cúc
Published: February 2025

Trong thơ Nguyễn Bính, “vườn” hiện lên như một biểu tượng, mang chở những suy tư, cảm xúc, lối tư duy của nhà thơ “chân quê”. Từ biểu tượng đó, cho thấy những giá trị truyền thống quý báu của văn hóa dân tộc. Không chỉ là biểu trưng của vẻ đẹp bình dị, cổ kính, niềm hoài vọng tha thiết về không gian nông thôn, về văn hóa làng, dưới ánh sáng của lí thuyết phê bình sinh thái, “vườn” còn chứa đựng những giá trị, những thông điệp rất ý nghĩa, nhất là trong bối cảnh hệ môi sinh đang có nguy cơ xuống cấp hiện nay. Vận dụng lí thuyết phê bình sinh thái để có những góc nhìn mới, nhận ra những giá trị mới từ biểu tượng quen thuộc này trong thơ Nguyễn Bính là mục tiêu đặt ra của bài viết. Theo đó, từ việc tìm hiểu những vấn đề lí thuyết về phê bình sinh thái, về biểu tượng trong văn học, bài viết đi sâu nghiên cứu biểu tượng “vườn” trong thơ Nguyễn Bính từ góc nhìn sinh thái tự nhiên và sinh thái tinh thần.
A STUDY TO ASSESS THE PREVALENCE AND DETERMINANTS OF MALNUTRITION AMONG UNDER FIVE CHILDREN RESIDING IN THE SELECTED COMMUNITY, THIRUVALLUR DISTRICT
Authors: A Florence Nightingale. K. , Sarathi Sathiyalatha , Hemavathy V. , I Mahizh Punitha , B. Pandian , A Jenifar Monisha
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Malnutrition among children under five years of age is a critical public health concern that has far-reaching implications for child health, development, and survival. This study aims to assess the prevalence and determinants of malnutrition among under five children residing in the selected community, Thiruvallur districtMethods: This study is a cross-sectional survey using a convenient sampling method to assess malnutrition among under-five children in a selected community in Thiruvallur district, Tamil Nadu. A total of 100 children aged 0.5 to 5 years (6–59 months) will be included, based on availability and willingness to participate. Children who have lived in the community for at least six months and whose parents or guardians provide consent will be eligible. Those with chronic illnesses, congenital conditions affecting growth, or whose families do not consent will be excluded.Results: The findings revealed that children under five show suboptimal growth, with an average weight of 11.5 kg, height of 85.5 cm, and MUAC of 13.8 cm. Z-scores indicated nutritional challenges, including underweight prevalence (-1.0 WAZ), stunting (-1.2 HAZ), and wasting (-0.8 WHZ). Malnutrition was evident, with 20% of children being underweight, 15% stunted, and 10% wasted at moderate to severe levels.Conclusions: The study concluded that the findings of this study reveal a concerning prevalence of malnutrition among children under five, characterized by suboptimal growth and inadequate dietary practices.
Dynamics of Violence in the North East: An Environmental Turn in the Mizo Uprising
Authors: Banerjee Aishwarya
Published: February 2025

War annihilates civilization and heralds a demolition of culture and human consciousness. Countless lives get stuck in this hell-hole of war and violence, unable to find an agency to escape the stagnation. North East India is often racked by multiple layers of conflict, which are visibly manifested in everyday life. The Mizo Uprising, or the Ram buai of the 1960s, is one of the faces of the multifaceted violence in the North East that witnessed an unprecedented assault on humanity. However, violence in the North East must be looked beyond surface-level manifestations in the form of “direct violence” to consider the broader aspects that remain below the waterline. The impact of war violence on the Environment has long remained unrecorded, rendering Nature the silent casualty of war. Malsawmi Jacob, whose novel Zorami: A Redemption Song addresses the trials and tribulations of her land during Ram buai, also touches upon the interconnection between genocide and ecocide through her poems. This article explores the ecological rhetoric of violence through Jacob’s poems. It examines how the twenty-year-long armed conflict in the serene Lushai hills vandalised human lives and profaned the ecological space.
Folklife in the Anthropocene: Critiquing Capitalocene in the Folk-World of Mahasweta Devi’s Select Non-Fictions
Authors: Chakrabortty Dayal
Published: February 2025

In the most recent geological epoch, the Anthropocene, human activities have significantly impacted planetary systems, ushering in global environmental changes. Mahasweta Devi’s writings focus on the marginalized tribal communities, examining their place in a world dominated by the destructive forces of capitalism. This article critiques India’s capitalist mode of civilization and its effect on the tribal and folk communities, as depicted in Devi’s non-fictional works like “Witch Sabbath at Singbhum” and “A Countryside Slowly Dying.” Devi’s portrayal of capitalist greed highlights the plight of these communities in the context of environmental devastation and the erosion of their folklife. The capitalist drive for exploitation in the Anthropocene, or more accurately, the Capitalocene, is critiqued, with special attention given to how tribals resist and negotiate these changes while maintaining their folk practices. The essay concludes by reflecting on the potential of moving toward an ‘Ecocene’ – a more sustainable and ecologically conscious future.
Correlation of Agronomic Characters in Potato Accessions Grown Organically
Authors: Tad-awan Belinda A. , Balas M. B.
Published: February 2025

Twenty potato accessions grown organically were characterized morphologically. Correlation analysis was done to determine the relationship among agronomic characters and to identify characters associated with marketable yield and harvest index.
Number of secondary stems, haulm weight, canopy cover at 75 DAP, diameter of stem and length of roots had significant positive correlation with marketable yield. Likewise, dry matter content of tubers and leaf area showed significant positive correlation with harvest index. Characters sig-nificantly correlated with marketable yield and harvest index could be used as selection indices for potato accessions grown under organic produc-tion.
Characteristics and Impacts of Ecotourism In The Municipalities of Basco and Mahatao, Batanes
Authors: Viola K.L. F. , Gomez R. A.
Published: February 2025

This was conducted to document the extent of ecotourism activities based on the demand function and the correlation of tourism visits (or arrivals) with ‘tourism-related’ services and amenities. It also assessed the impacts of eco-tourism in terms of solid and amenities. It also assessed the impacts of eco-tourism in terms of solid waste generation, water quality and water supply. The field work phase of the study was conducted in the months of May and June 2006.
 
Results showed that the level of ecotourism in  Batanes was quite or relatively high. Based on the tourism arrivals from 1995 to 2006, there was an increasing trend. With the number of visitors reaching past the two thousand plus mark. The demand curve values (R2 value of 0.4803 and R value of 0.69) showed a more or less definite pattern of visitation by tourists, and it also reflected that Batanes is generally well visited place by tourists. The willingness to pay (WTP) of an individual in each zone showed that the visitors from Zone 3 (Ireland) had an WTP of less than about Php 450, 000.000. This implies that people from other countries (e.g. Ireland) were willing to spend big amounts of money to enjoy the recreational value offered by the eco-tourism sites in Basco and Mahatao.
 
There was no significant correlation among the number of tourists with the number of restaurants, lodging houses, and souvenir shops. However, the number of tourists and the public transport units showed a significant correlation.
In 2005 the estimated volume of solid waste produced by the two communities together with the tourists has increased to 1,227,431.44 kilograms from 944, 987.20 kilograms in 1995. Moreover, biodegradable wastes were “not frequently seen and in small amounts” (Rank 4) while non-biodegradable wastes were observed to be “frequently scattered in the sites but in small amount” (Rank 3). The impacts of these wastes might take many generations to be realized but it might still have impacts that would cause destruction to the environment.
The water quality utilized for drinking, washing and bathing purposes was still generally “very clean” (Rank 2) in the two municipalities in 2006, with a better perception towards “extremely clean” (Rank 1) in Mahatao. Generally, the water quality in the two municipalities is “very clean” and still safe for the needs of the public as perceived by the community respondents. There was a slight change in water quality in the two towns especially in the more urban town of Basco. Ecotourism activities may still have contributed to this change in water quality, as a consequence of the influx of more people into the place.
Majority of the respondents also perceived that the water supply in the two municipalities is not enough for their daily needs for the whole year. In general, the volume of water distributed is insufficient for both community and the tourists. The impacts of ecotourism activities on water supply could thus aggravate the problem on insufficiency in the coming years.
Toknang, “Humor that Bites” Understanding the Subculture of Young Farmers
Authors: Batani Ruth S.
Published: February 2025

This study examines toknang a locally shared expression of humor among young farmers. Treated as a folk performance that happens during drinking sessions, it has become an alternative way of “expressing the self” and for everyday sensing. There are, however, complex interactions and conditions that happen during the verbal exchange that it becomes a “biting humor,” creating a scenario where masculinity becomes the object of identity constructions. Using key informant interviews and focus group discussions, the study aimed to sketch the norms on alcohol drinking and understand the locally marked sense of humor called toknang among young farmers.
Findings showed that alcohol drinking almost always comes with exchange of sense of humor which, generally speaking, forms part of the socialization of young farmers. However, gin drinking can actually lead to other strings of events including masculine show-offs animated in the play of toknang. While this forms part of socialization in a farming community like Pawil, there are differing views held by men and women on toknang.  The view that negates toknang as subculture of the young is where the recommendation of regulating ‘gin’ drinking, as one precipitating cause of staging ‘humor that bites’ becomes compelling.
Development and Evaluation of NSIC-Approved Improved Varieties of Bush and Pole Snap Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) for Commercialization in Northern Philippines
Authors: Tandang Leoncia L.
Published: February 2025

Snap bean is an important vegetable legume in the Northern Philippines. To meet the demands of snap bean farmers and consumers for better commercial varieties, the snap bean breeding program team has continued developing and identifying at the BSU-IPB Highland Crops Research Station (HCRS), accessions and advanced breeding lines as promising varieties not only for the highlands but also for the mid-elevation areas and lowlands. These improved materials were evaluated to identify new improved varieties that are high-yielding, have better resistance to major pests and diseases and with good pod qualities. This resulted in the selection and identification of nine pole snap bean and seven bush snap bean improved varieties with higher yield and better horticultural characteristics than the traditional commercial varieties. All of them were evaluated further in multi-location field trials from 2005-2014 that led to official approval and registration of seven improved varieties of pole snap bean and three new improved varieties of bush snap bean for regional commercialization by the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Plant Industry-National Seed Industry Council (DA-BPI-NSIC) in November 2008(2), 2009(3), 2014(4) and 2015(1). They were NSIC 2008 PSnBn 1 “Kapangan”, NSIC 2008 PSnBn 2 “Mabunga”, NSIC 2009 PSnBn 3 “Tublay, NSIC 2014 PSnBn 4 “Itogon”, NSIC 2014 PSnBn 5 “Kibungan”, NSIC2014 PSnBn 6 “Tuba”, and NSIC 2014 PSnBn 7 “Wangal” pole snap bean varieties; and NSIC2009BSnBn 1 “Sablan”, NSIC 2009 BSnBn 2 “Bokod” and 2015 BSnBn “Cali” bush snap bean. A Certificate of Registration for commercialization of each variety in the Northern Philippine Highland was given.
Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity among Employees of Selected Regional Line Agencies in the Cordillera Administrative Region, Philippines
Authors: Degay Imelda O.
Published: February 2025

With       the          increasing              trend of overnutrition,          the  implementation of appropriate nutrition action plan that is  based on sound and extensive research data is being  recommended. As part of developing an extensive health profile  in Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), Philippines, this  study documented the prevalence of protein-energy malnutrition  among the employees of 21 regional line agencies (RLAs) who are  members of the Cordillera Regional Nutrition Committee  (RNC). The study is a descriptive cross-sectional survey done  among 395 permanent government employees. Data gathered  were body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC) and  waist-hip ratio (WHR). The employees were healthy, mostly  non-pregnant females (65%) and selected through stratified  random sampling. The mean BMI was 25.8 kg/m2 (males=26.5;  females=25.4) indicating that the employees are generally  overweight. The combined overweight and obesity prevalence  was 56.7% with males registering a higher prevalence of 64%  (n=79) compared to 52.7% (n=135) in females.  The mean WC of 90.7cm for male and 83.7cm for female employees were within  the borderline. WHR was 0.91 for males indicating absence of  abdominal adiposity but 0.86 for females showing risk of  increased metabolic complications. The overall prevalence  of high WC was 26% (13.7% in the males and 32.8% in the  females) while high WHR was 44% (17% males; 59% females).  Exercise and length of service were correlated with BMI  and WC. The high prevalence of overweight and obesity  among the government workers puts them at risk of non- communicable chronic diseases. Appropriate health and  nutrition  policies  and  programs  must  be  instituted  at  once.
BSU TALKnology: Touching Lives of Rural Communities in the Highlands of Northern Luzon, Philippines
Authors: Sudaypan Constantino T.
Published: February 2025

The TALKnology program, a 15-minute radio program of the  Benguet State University, is seen as an effective modality in the  adoption of technologies among rural households in the highland  communities of Northern Luzon, Philippines. To assess the  efficacy of this program in bringing out social outcomes geared  towards empowering farmers, there is a need to gather baseline  information, hence this study. The study characterized the socio- economic status of the respondents; determined their attitude on the topics discussed in the program; categorized the technologies  adopted by the respondents as influenced by the program;  determined the positive results attained by the rural households  after the adoption of the technologies, and identified the challenges  encountered. Results showed that the TALKnology program  contributed to the enhanced awareness of rural communities  about appropriate technologies. In turn, the enhanced awareness  has brought desirable changes among rural communities such as the adoption of BSU technologies that are mostly along agriculture.  Such technologies include compost making, basic plant and animal  pest and disease management, soil sampling and soil analysis,  egg production, and postharvest technologies. Adopting the  technologies accessed through the TALKnology program enhanced  the livelihood opportunities of the rural households. Limited  financial resources, however, hindered the adoption of some  technologies.
School-Based Management in Benguet, Philippines:
Authors: Lubrica Percyveranda A. , Parcasio Imelda G. , Cuevas Jingle P. , Alvaro Manolita N. , Gallardo Alma Vida G. , Batani Ruth S.
Published: February 2025

Experts agree that there is a need for continuous evaluation  and upgrading for school-based management (SMB) to be fully  realized. In the Philippines, there had been few attempts at  the national level but in-depth, localized evaluation is being  recommended. Hence, this study was conceptualized to  document and determine the effect of SMB on the school  heads’ governance of secondary school in Benguet, Philippines.  The study employed both quantitative method (structured  survey) and qualitative method (focused group discussion and  interviews). Results showed that the use of SMB by school  heads is a key factor in effectively running the school system.  Manifestations of these are observed in the very satisfactory  application of the SMB knowledge and skills in school  governance with minimal support and guidance from their  superiors. In addition, the school heads’ extent of application of the acquired SBM knowledge and skills have influenced their  capability in school governance. However, the school heads  expressed developmental needs to further their management  skills. Such results imply a substantial realization on the  implementation of SMB in secondary schools embarking on  institutionalizing quality improvement measures in all program  areas  as  mandated  in  their  respective  school  systems
Enhancing the Social Media Marketing of Agri-Tourism by Farmers in La Trinidad, Benguet, Philippines and the Development of the Hellical Model of Participatory Communication Action Research
Authors: Tabangcura Jennyline S. , Fuchigami Christine Grace S.
Published: February 2025

Agri-tourism is a sustainable and growing industry in the  Philippines that could further be enhanced thru social media,  a low-cost marketing tool with a global reach. To maximize social  media for agri-tourism, there is a need first to gather baseline  information as basis for enhancement. This study assessed the  capacity of 26 La Trinidad farmers on using social media to  promote their farms as agri-tourism sites. The study employed  the Participatory Communication Research Action (PCRA)  Model. Results from community consultations, ocular surveys,  key informant interviews, and document reviews revealed  that the study areas have natural characteristics and enough  resources to support agri-tourism. However, the farmers  needed further assistance in addressing the issues that come  with these characteristics and resources. The assessment test  showed that the respondents have a moderate level of social  media marketing (SMM) skills, knowledge, and traits. Thus, the  study conducted a seminar on SMM where the participants were guided to develop SMM plans for their own farms.  Additionally, the study was able to assess the PCRA Model  and found it to be far more flexible than originally thought.  Thus, the study crafted a more coherent PCRA model,  namely the Model of Participatory Communication towards  Self-management,      from combining the          lessons   learned  from this study and the strength of Dance’s Helix Model of  communication.  The study recommends that government or  non-government extension efforts may look into further  addressing the needed additional SMM knowledge, skills, and  traits of the respondents as well as possible capacity building  activities on product development. Future studies could look  into the progress of the SMM plans developed by the respondents  to  find  out  how  the  respondents  could  be  further  assisted
Traditional Food Crops and their Role in the Nutrition Well-Being of a Semi-subsistent Community in Kibungan, Benguet, Philippines
Authors: Balauro Sherilyn B. , Camfili- Talastas Matyline A.
Published: February 2025

Traditional food crops have helped the people of a community in  Kibungan, Benguet survive since time immemorial. This study  documented the existing traditional food crops, postharvest  practices and cooking methods, estimated the nutrient value  of these crops, and assessed the contribution of these to the  nutritional well-being of the community. Participatory Rural  Appraisal (PRA), key informant     interviews, focus group  discussion, participant observation, semi-structured interviews,  anthropometric assessment, and 24-hour food recall were  employed to gather data. Findings revealed 33 species of  traditional food crops that are available to community  members. Postharvest and cooking practices adopted were  simple or traditional. Results showed that traditional food  crops contribute to food security especially that they are readily available as sources of food at different times, cheaper than  commercially grown food crops, and add taste and flavor  or satiety to their diet.  The study also showed that these crops are significant sources of micro and macronutrients,  which improves the nutritional status of the people. With the  introduction of commercial crops, increasing pests and diseases  at present, and the continuing threat of climate change,  traditional food crops needs to be propagated and its production  improved. The development of postharvest technologies to  sustain production and engaging in agricultural entrepreneur is  also required to effectively contribute to people’s resilience and  nutritional  well-being.
Scaling Up Rootcrops Technology and the Women’s Wisdom in the Conservation of Sweetpotato Varieties
Authors: Batani Ruth S. , Labon Kacy O. , Masangcay Teresita D. , Loncio Rhea S.
Published: February 2025

Sweetpotato, an important traditional food crop especially for women farmers in semi-subsistence communities recorded nearly a total wipeout in 2014. Its absence on the farmers’ table brought out expressions such as ‘kakaikawa’ (it is deeply missed) and kasla met bagas dayta (likened to rice as a staple), revealing how sweetpotato is woven into the everyday lives of these households. Informed of research results done previously in the same community, the extension phase that aimed at saving this important crop through the introduction of a university package of technologies (PoT) took a non-linear path, which this paper highlights. The participatory extension approach of transferring technology at the community level explored how women took on the task of selecting sweetpotato varieties according to locally defined criteria that imitates the traditional varieties. The wisdom of women in conserving traditionally cultivated sweetpotatoes that were abruptly cut due to Fusarium wilt infestation was again utilized during the adoption phase. The practice of seed keeping or, in this case, cultivating planting materials in ‘mother plots’ for exchange and propagation in other areas facilitated the technology adoption. Despite some setbacks in the earlier experience of the PoT, sweetpotato growing was assessed to have recovered successfully by 2020 with indicators resting on the availability of the item on the table, during rituals, and as a buffer income source. The area cultivated also increased by 42%. From the narratives of the women partners, the adoption of the tissue-cultured clean planting materials technology went beyond Kibungan, the initial project site.
Momma: Understanding Young Farmers’ Perspective of Betel Nut Chewing in Bashoy, Kabayan, Benguet, Philippines
Authors: Bay-an Dianne A.
Published: February 2025

This paper explores how young farmers in Bashoy, Kabayan, Benguet perceive betel nut chewing through the reasons, beliefs, and social meanings they attach to the practice. The researcher employed the qualitative research design through the conduct of in-depth interviews and participant observation. The respondents of this study provided a new perspective on betel nut chewing as it is already an integrated part of their farming life. They claim betel nut chewing as a productive vice because it provides them with benefits such as warmth, strength, focus, relaxation, and hunger and thirst regulation. Betel nut chewing has also become an integral part of creating and cementing friendship among farmers as it is also a part of their celebratory practice after every harvest and other occasions. It has slowly built its place as an agent of communication among chewers which are also farmers.
Fungal Contaminants and Cup Quality of Stored Roasted Arabica Coffee
Authors: Amado Von Y. , Basalong Andres A. , Talbino Hazen Lyn B.
Published: February 2025

To ensure safe and quality Arabica coffee products for consumption, prevention of microbial contamination during processing has to be guaranteed including appropriate storage practices and determining the ideal storage duration. However, there is a dearth of local information on the quality of roasted Arabica coffee and fungal contaminations as a result of storage. This study analyzed the effect of storage durations on the occurrence of fungal contaminants and its influence on the cup quality of roasted Arabica coffee beans. Wet processed green coffee beans of the Bourbon Red variety were roasted at medium level, packed at 250g in a vacuum metalized polyethylene terephthalate (VMPET) coffee pouches fitted with a one-way valve then stored for 24 months. Results show that after roasting, the coffee beans were free of fungal contaminants but these were detected after 3 months of storage. This implies that contamination could have occurred during the packaging of roasted coffee beans. Five fungal genera were isolated dominated by Penicillium sp., and Cladosporium sp. while fungal genera identified at the species level were Cladosporium cladosporioides and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Meanwhile, the desirable attributes of the roasted coffee lasted for 5 months of storage. The aroma was the earliest to fade while flavor exhibited slow but gradual waning. Based on these results, it is recommended that roasted Arabica coffee beans be stored using VMPET packaging material for 5 months. Also, processors should conform to Good Manufacturing Practices, specifically hygienic practices during handling and packing of roasted coffee to prevent fungal contamination. Finally, the best-before date or date of roasting should be indicated on the packaging labels of roasted coffee products.