Sustainable Foundation Research Articles

СУЧАСНІ КОНЦЕПТУАЛЬНІ ПІДХОДИ ДО КАТЕГОРІЇ «АГРОСФЕРА»

An analysis of contemporary scientific approaches to defining the category of «agrosphere» has been conducted. The features of its content, components, and main aspects of sustainable development have been examined. The importance of the agrosphere for ensuring food security, economic growth, social well-being, and environmental preservation has been substantiated. Based on the aforementioned approaches, an author's definition of the researched category has been formulated, according to which the agrosphere is a complex system that integrates land use and agro-production, their economic, social, and environmental aspects, functioning based on sustainable land management, aimed at ensuring food security, sustainable development, and societal well-being. The agrosphere should include: all elements of agricultural production; the economic component; the social component; the environmental direction; and the institutional aspect. It is important to understand that the agrosphere is not static but continuously evolves under the influence of various factors. For the sustainable development of the agrosphere, it is necessary to implement innovative technologies and practices, invest in infrastructure and human capital, create favorable conditions for the development of the agro-industrial complex, and ensure compliance with environmental norms and standards. Only through the combined efforts of the state, business, and the public can a stable and promising agrosphere be created. Being a life-supporting system, it ideally corresponds to the principles of the sustainable development concept. And it is precisely on the foundations of sustainability that its progress should occur.

A Structured Model for continuous improvement methodology deployment and sustainment: A Case Study

This research focuses on designing a clear methodology for problem-solving. It investigates the application of a defined ‘Lean’ methodology for the proactive application of process improvement activities using a phased digitized measurement and monitoring system. This case study in a Medtech organisation utilised the Plan, Do, Check, Act (PDCA) model to develop a Lean system and structure to support managing the process improvement or project management element of a Continuous Improvement (CI) framework. The results from the pilot of this study delivered financial gains and demonstrated how a robust structure and methodology to measure improvement activity and success provided a strong, sustainable foundation for customer satisfaction, efficiency, cost reduction and employee engagement improvement. It also highlighted the importance of focusing on proactive process improvement as part of a CI framework. The study provides valuable insights into the effective implementation of Lean principles and process improvement via a sustainable model, thereby contributing to the body of knowledge in this field.. This study demonstrated how the developed model supported process improvement activity underpinning the development of a wider continuous improvement culture to support Lean deployment and sustainment and that systems can drive behaviour. Additionally, this application in the healthcare manufacturing sector adds to the sparse application in the literature from this sector.

A comprehensive design for biomimetic behavior of robotic head

In robotics and human-robot interaction, the ability to express emotions and respond accurately to human emotions is essential. An important aspect of this ability involves controlling the robot’s facial actuators in a way that resonates with human emotions. This study systematically presented the construction of a robot head based on the theoretical foundation of human sustainability. Facial landmarks are extracted for various purposes, such as to determine anthropometric metrics for robot head design, a comprehensive design for the robotic head is proposed in this study including anthropometric measurements used as a theoretical basis for the design, the calculations, and design, control system, electricity, and robot skin are presented. The robotic head with 24 degrees of freedom (DoF) aims to express all human emotions, signals are fed back from strain gauge sensors and cameras to calibrate the response of the robot’s prosthetic muscles. Strain gauge sensors are set up at locations with large deformations to double-check the functioning of prosthetic muscles. The two experiments are set up to evaluate the completeness of emotions, the results showed that both experiments achieved 93.88% and 91.85% respectively.

Diseminasi Teknologi Mesin Feed Grinder dan Pelatihan Pembuatan Silasi Berbahan Limbah pertanian untuk Menghasilkan Pakan Domba Bernutrisi

This community service activity aims to disseminate feed grinder machine technology and provide training on making silage from agricultural waste as an alternative, nutritious feed for sheep in collaboration with the Sumber Mendho Nusantara livestock group. The implementation method involves four stages: preparation, which focuses on identifying the partner's problems and needs; training, which includes socializing the use of agricultural waste and demonstrating the feed grinder machine; mentoring, which focuses on follow-up and monitoring previous activities; and reporting and sustainability to ensure that the program continues to be implemented by the partner. The outcomes of this community service are that the partners are able to understand and apply appropriate technology to process waste, such as cassava and corn cobs, into quality feed. This activity not only reduces the farmers' dependence on commercial feed but also increases operational efficiency and opens up new opportunities in agropreneurship. The results also indicate a positive change in the partners' mindset, skills, and ability to manage agricultural waste. Furthermore, the increased knowledge of operating and maintaining appropriate technology provides a strong foundation for the program's sustainability in the future. With the support of proper technology and training, the livestock group can improve the quality of animal feed and optimize local economic potential.

DISTANCE LEARNING EXIT ECONOMIC MODEL

At the beginning of 2020, with the onset of the pandemic, the traditional learning environment for learners drastically changed globally. Since then, most students/teachers have started and practiced distance and virtual learning/teaching. Thus, a technological breakthrough in virtual learning has followed. In connection with this, many countries worldwide have commenced allocating additional financing and funds for educational institutions' technological improvement and development. The long-term stay in distance learning has revealed and highlighted new problems students face: their knowledge level has decreased, they lack socialization skills, and they face psychological and physical health problems. Due to this negative impact on students, a need to research and evaluate how much the EU countries allocated to solve the distance learning-caused problems and what programs or models they prepared has emerged and encouraged further studies. The research has found that many countries increased their allocations very minimally, e.g., 0.0.1%, but some increased their available budgets to 32%. Notably, most countries did not separate distance learning exit funding from distance learning preparation funding. Based on the problems the countries saw, only a few states identified withdrawal from distance learning as a problem. Considering this, we set ourselves the goal to evaluate exit models from distance learning and allocated funding amounts. To stabilize the impact of unforeseen events, such as epidemics, pandemics, military conflicts, etc., on learning processes, it is necessary to have sustainable solutions for managing learning processes in such situations. As revealed by the COVID-19 situation, the stability and continuity of the learning process remains very important even in emergencies. Stable and continuous learning can be ensured by practising sustainable distance learning, which must be based on sustainable tools. The results of this research are significant in terms of improving distance learning and providing qualitative and sustainable education. The current situation stimulates hybrid learning, which is increasingly becoming the foundation of sustainability in the education sector. Thus, to reverse the damage caused by distance learning and create a sustainable environment for blended learning, it is necessary to eliminate the negative effects of distance learning. This challenge will lead to the need for new sustainable blended learning programs. The following objectives were planned to achieve the goal: · to evaluate the global practice of exit from distance learning in the context of sustainability; · to determine the scope of funding for pandemic management; · to evaluate the amounts of funding allocated to manage pandemic-caused consequences and the GDP ratio. Research methods: mathematical-statistical analysis, empirical analysis, and analysis of scientific literature.

The Use Of Language That Creates Intent In Riddles Consequential From Social Variation In Tanzania

This article has examined how the aspect of language use creates intent in the riddles arising from social change in Tanzania. The primary data used in the analysis, discussion and presented in this article were found in the library by the method of careful reading. The target selection technique was used to find selected riddles by referring to the specific objective of the article aimed at investigating how the use of language creates intent in riddles resulting from social change. A review of the documents used to verify the primary data was obtained through electronic and library methods. The results of the study are presented in a descriptive manner. The analysis and discussion of the data presented was guided by the theory of New Historism. The results of the study show that there is a specific relationship between the elements of language in building the objectives that are linked to the changes that occur in society. The use of language elements has focused on the issue of context, time and the needs of society in designing a language that depicts the real situation in society. Also, the selected genre has given us a Figurative language that it is a solid link in building the foundations for understanding cultural change and the development of science and technology as an important tool in designing the mission and language of riddles that review those changes. This article recommends that more research be done to examine the role of riddles arising from social change in building sustainable foundations to maintain and strengthen traditional ideologies and philosophies in this country.

Crossing horizons: unraveling perspectives on enhancing medical students’ success through at-risk factor exploration

BackgroundMedical universities often face the ongoing challenge of identifying and supporting at-risk students to enhance retention rates and academic success. This study explores a comprehensive analysis of perceived at-risk factors impeding academic and career aspirations and compares the perspectives of students and faculty in a medical school.MethodsWe focused on first and second-year medical (MBBS) students and teaching faculty in an international medical college offering a twinning program in India and Malaysia. Our investigation involved a comprehensive assessment of 25 at-risk factors through Likert-type questionnaires distributed to 250 MBBS students and 50 teaching faculty.ResultsOur findings revealed distinct disparities in perceptions between faculty and students regarding mean scores of classroom engagement (p = 0.017), procrastination (p = 0.001), unrealistic goals (p = 0.026), emotional/behavioral problems (p = 0.008), limited key social skills (p = 0.023), and a non-supportive home environment (p = 0.001). These differences underscore the need for increased communication and understanding between faculty and students to address these risk factors effectively. In contrast, no significant disparities were observed among faculty and students’ perceptions concerning mean scores of various potential at-risk factors, including academic unpreparedness, cultural/language barriers, individual guidance/mentoring, limited communication skills, racism/sexism, self-confidence, self-respect, self-concept, motivation, underprepared for current academic challenges, self-discipline, negative social network, negative peer culture, transportation time, college financial cost, college evaluation culture bias, broken college relationships, teaching methodology, and learning disabilities. However, varying degrees of influence were perceived by faculty and students, suggesting the importance of individualized support.ConclusionThis study contributes to the academic community by shedding light on the multifaceted nature of at-risk factors influencing student success. It underscores the need for proactive measures and tailored interventions to enhance student retention in higher education and academic achievement, fostering a sustainable foundation for lifelong learning and growth.

THE CONCEPT OF EQUAL PARENTING: A SOLID FOUNDATION FOR FAMILY WELL-BEING (WORLD PRACTICE)

The concept of equal parenting is becoming increasingly important in modern society. This model of parenthood promotes the emotional well-being of children, improves the psycho-emotional state of parents and creates a harmonious family atmosphere. The equal distribution of responsibilities helps to reduce stress, supports the professional and personal fulfillment of parents, and also contributes to the destruction of gender stereotypes. As a result, equal parenting creates a solid foundation for family well-being and sustainability, positively affecting all family members and society as a whole.

Realities of economic growth and development in the post-soviet countries

The article discusses issues of high-quality economic growth and development that create the foundations for sustainability and stability. An analysis of factors influencing changes in the macroeconomic situation for 2015–2022/2023 is presented. The current situation in the countries of the former USSR is considered. The main reasons limiting economic growth and development are identified, and mechanisms for overcoming them are revealed. The need to pay more attention to qualitative indicators of economic growth and development, which create the foundations of sustainability, is substantiated. In the current conditions, the qualitative component of economic growth and development is becoming increasingly important due to the increasing influence of global problems, risks, uncertainty, sanctions, and local wars. The pandemic had a certain impact on the country's economic growth, which revealed the need for sustainable financing of public investment to achieve a certain level of economic growth and development, tax revenues. The pandemic has contributed to increasing the importance of innovative projects. The adopted programs, concepts and road maps contribute to the formation of a competitive innovative industrial complex. All this, in turn, will create the basis for a qualitative improvement of the country’s existing production potential and contribute to the transition to a predominantly innovative type of development. It is advisable to realistically reflect the current situation, not to turn a blind eye to the real positive changes taking place in the country, which contribute not only to its economic, but, above all, to its political strengthening of its position in the world. The essence of economic planning is not to give a project, but to determine a direction that is adjusted depending on the situation. Economics must justify economic activity and the following chain can be shown schematically: idea – ​economic justification – ​real implementation.

Sustainable Environment in Islam, Its Manifestations and Causes

This study aims to revise the Islamic law (sharia) and analyze the Islamic foundations of environmental and sustainability and how Islamic law shapes people's understanding of the sustainable environment. It looks at the morals, ethics, and conduct that Sharia law promotes in order to combat the escalating environmental issues. Involving religious organizations and making use of jurists' scientific knowledge, the project aims to improve the idea of social responsibility while offering answers to environmental problems. It also clarifies Islamic philosophical precepts, which place a strong emphasis on protecting and conserving the environment.The study emphasizes how critical it is to address environmental issues, change people's attitudes and behaviors regarding the environment, and find answers to the problems that it faces. It creates a link between environmental issues and Islamic beliefs in the framework of sustainable development objectives.

Китайский опыт управления горным туризмом в условиях урбанизации: на примере провинции Гуйчжоу

The study is based on analyzing urban discourse in the context of mountain tourism development in China using Guizhou Province as an example. The focus is on exploring the interaction between urban and mountain cultures, and the formation of strategies that promote the sustainable development of the tourism industry in mountainous areas. Methods. The authors used system approach and factor analysis, as well as trans-disciplinary-regionological approach to study regional aspects of mountain tourism. Analytical reports, mountain tourism development strategies and works of Chinese researchers served as the main sources for the analysis. Results. In October 2019, the Guizhou Provincial Government published a document proposing to turn Guizhou into a world-renowned sports and mountain tourism area, highlighting the region’s ambition to become a leader in this field. International conferences and seminars have confirmed the desire to utilize the natural environment to develop mountain tourism, which includes not only improving infrastructure but also preserving the province’s unique natural and cultural characteristics. Guizhou has significant potential due to its geographical location and cultural diversity, making it an ideal location for tourism development. Key strategies to effectively engage with the urban discourse include enhancing the environmental culture of the people, developing transportation accessibility and infrastructure, promoting the cultural heritage of local ethnic groups, and increasing the region’s role in tourism management. Conclusions. The study emphasizes the importance of integrating urbanist discourse in mountain tourism development, especially in multinational and geographically unique regions such as Guizhou. Four key strategies – ecological development, improving infrastructure, preserving cultural uniqueness, and strengthening regional management – provide a sustainable foundation for future growth of the tourism industry. This approach not only promotes economic development, but also preserves the unique natural and cultural resources that make Guizhou attractive to tourists. The results of this study can serve as a basis for developing similar strategies in other mountain regions of the world, thus stimulating global cooperation and knowledge sharing in mountain tourism.

The Synergy Model of Quality Tools and Methods and Its Influence on Process Performance and Improvement

Implementing quality tools and methods creates a basic foundation for innovations, sustainability, optimization, and competitiveness in the era of Industry 4.0 and Quality 4.0. This paper aimed to investigate the use of quality tools and methods in the 24 divisions of a mother manufacturing company without the influence of external factors such as geographical location (America, Africa, Asia, and Europe). It was important for the mother manufacturing company to implement a uniform process standard for innovation and performance. Research methods focused on using the Kanban card, Ishikawa diagram, affinity diagram, Flowchart, 5S, OPL, layout, and Pareto analysis. It was determined in this research that the synergy (combination) of quality tools and methods in divisions improves the process performance. This hypothesis was confirmed by the results of implementing quality tools in processes within divisions. A top result was the new innovative model of synergy of the quality tools and methods for divisions of the parent company thus filling a gap in the scientific field. This model created the basis for the uniform process standard in all divisions. The results brought improvements in the processes such as material input inspection, spare parts production, production process, and product packaging. This model could be a proactive instrument for process innovation.

Spatial-Temporal Variations and Driving Factors of the Coupling and Coordination Level of the Digital Economy and Sustainable Rural Development: A Case Study of China

Sustainable rural development forms a robust foundation for economic and social sustainability. Moreover, the digital economy acts as a catalyst for advancing rural sustainable development by altering the distribution of production factors. Thus, this study concentrates on 30 provinces in China, constructing an evaluation index system for both the digital economy and rural sustainable development. The study employs various methods and models to analyze the spatiotemporal changes and driving factors affecting the coupling and coordination between these two aspects. The research findings are as follows: the coupling and coordination levels among provinces in China have been on the rise year by year. By 2022, the coupling and coordination levels of most provinces range between 0.5 and 0.6. Regional disparities are the primary determinant of the poor overall coupling and coordination level in China. In 2022, the coupling and coordination level in the eastern region is 0.6663, compared to 0.5420 in the central region and 0.5087 in the western region. Factors such as urbanization, industrial structure transformation, technological innovation, higher education, economic development, and government support significantly influence the coupling and coordination level. Nevertheless, their effects vary across regions, with a more pronounced impact in the eastern region than in the central and western regions. Therefore, this paper proposes policy recommendations, including infrastructure optimization, rural digitization promotion, regional resource allocation enhancement, cross-regional development mechanism exploration, and differentiated development strategy implementation.

Philosophical and Methodological Foundations of Civil Identity Formation

Today, the Kyrgyz Republic faces the acute question of forming sustainable foundations for consolidating societal civil identity. Addressing this issue occurs amidst an identity crisis, caused not only by global processes but also by the dissolution of the previous society. This necessitates the development of philosophical and methodological foundations and socio-philosophical reflection on the processes occurring in the sphere of Kyrgyz civil identity, which also justifies the legitimacy of scientific inquiry in the chosen direction. This article examines theoretical and methodological approaches and problems in studying civil identity and the factors influencing its formation in society.

Etika Bisnis Islam: Pendekatan Siklus Ekonomi dan Praktik Bisnis Syariah dalam Ekspansi Waralaba Industri Retail

In this era of globalization, franchise expansion has become one of the main strategies for the growth of the retail industry. However, in a business context governed by Islamic principles, the concept of business ethics becomes increasingly relevant. This article explores the role of Islamic Business Ethics in the context of franchise expansion in the retail industry, with a focus on economic cycles and sharia business practices. Through a literature review, this article describes how Islamic business ethical values can direct franchise expansion steps, manage risks in fluctuating economic cycles, and implement sharia business practices that are in accordance with Islamic principles. This research discusses the implications of Islamic business ethics in strengthening the foundations of sustainability and long-term success for the retail industry which focuses on the principles of justice, social responsibility and economic balance. The research results show that the application of Islamic business ethics in franchise expansion in the retail industry can improve business performance, strengthen consumer trust, and promote business sustainability. This research highlights the importance of understanding and applying the principles of Islamic business ethics in the context of modern business, especially in the retail industry.

A context-driven approach through stakeholder engagement to introduce a digital emergency obstetric and newborn care register into routine obstetric health care services in Bangladesh.

Emergency obstetric and newborn care (EmONC) in Bangladesh focusses on maternal health, whereby it addresses childbirth and postpartum complications to ensure women's health and well-being. It was transitioned to a digital platform to overcome challenges with the paper-based EmONC register and we conducted implementation research to assess the outcome. Here we outline the stakeholder engagement process integral to the implementation research process. We adopted a four-step stakeholder engagement model based on the identification, sensitisation, involvement, and engagement of stakeholders. The approach was informed by previous experience, desk reviews, and expert consultations to ensure comprehensive engagement with stakeholders at multiple levels. Led by the Maternal Health Programme of the Government of Bangladesh, we involved high-power and high-interest stakeholders in developing a joint action plan for digitisation of the paper-based EmONC register. Finally, we demonstrated this digital EmONC register in real-life settings to stakeholders at different levels. The successful demonstration process fostered government ownership and collaboration with multiple stakeholders, while laying the foundation for scalability and sustainability. Nevertheless, our experience highlighted that the stakeholder engagement process is context-driven, time-consuming, resource-intensive, iterative, and dynamic, and it requires involving stakeholders with varied expertise. Effective strategic planning, facilitation, and the allocation of sufficient time and resources are essential components for successful stakeholder engagement. Our experience demonstrates the potential of adopting the 'identification, sensitisation, involvement, and engagement' stakeholder engagement model. Success in implementing this model in diverse settings depends on leveraging knowledge gained during implementation, maintaining robust communication with stakeholders, and harnessing the patience and determination of the facilitating organisation.

The Importance of Philanthropy Foundation for the Future Sustainability of Agriculture and Nutrition: An Opinion Study on Practical Applications, Policies, and Strategies.

Food security, food sustainability, and malnutrition represent critical global challenges. Th urgency of comprehensive action is evident in the need for research collaboration between the food industry, agriculture, public health, and nutrition. This article highlights the role of philanthropy, of a non-profit organization, in supporting research and development and filling financial gaps. The article also explores the interplay of nutrition, agriculture, and government and policy, positioning philanthropy as a catalyst for transformative change and advocating for collaborative efforts to comprehensively address global food challenges. In addition, the discussion also underscores the ethical complexities surrounding charitable food aid, especially in terms of the dignity and autonomy of its recipients. The paper concludes by proposing future directions and implications, advocating for diversified intervention portfolios and collaborative efforts involving governments, businesses, and local communities. Apart from that, the importance of answering and alleviating ethical dilemmas related to food charity assistance needs to be a concern for future studies related to philanthropy because of the significant challenges faced by the contemporary food system, which include food security, health, and nutritional sustainability.

Shifting from Individual Opulence to Collective Well-Being: Replacing Luxury and Tourism as Human Stains by Nurturing a Positive Anthropocene

While prior research describes the transformation of luxury from a micro level with an individualistic focus to a macro level with a sustainable foundation, this study anticipates that a radical reconfiguration of individualistic-focused luxury and tourism to a meta level well-being perspective is necessary for nurturing a positive Anthropocene. Therefore, the study constructs the perspective that luxury and tourism can contribute to environmental and human well-being, which is transformative from an individualistic, dolce vita, luxury travel Zeitgeist (i.e., complementing Roth's tragedy, The Human Stain) to collective well-being that is authentic and holistically encompassing the entire ecosystem. The analyses here indicate that human attitudes, beliefs, and actions must change radically in configurations to embrace this meta-level luxury and tourism perspectives. The theoretical and practical reconfigurations include shifting from being selfish to generous, temporal to everlasting, exclusive to inclusive, hubris to humility, and linear to circular.

Creating a Sustainable Foundation for IR Services and Training in Sub-Saharan Africa: 5-Year Update on the Road2IR Initiative

PurposeTo evaluate the growth and quality of an interventional radiology (IR) training model designed for resource-constrained settings and implemented in Tanzania as well as its overall potential to increase access to minimally invasive procedures across the region. Materials and MethodsIR training in Tanzania began in October 2018 through monthly deployment of visiting teaching teams for hands-on training combined with in-person and remote lectures. A competency-based 2-year Master of Science in IR curriculum was inaugurated at the nation’s main teaching hospital in October 2019, with the first 2 classes graduating in 2021 and 2022. Procedural data, demographics, and clinical outcomes were collected and analyzed throughout the duration of this program. ResultsFrom October 2018 to July 2022, 1,595 procedures were performed in Tanzania: 1,236 nonvascular and 359 vascular, all with local fellows as primary interventional radiologists. Of these, 97.2% were technically successful, 95.2% were without adverse events, and 28.9% were performed independently by Tanzanian fellows and faculty with no difference in adverse event and technical success rates (P = .63 and P = .90, respectively), irrespective of procedural class. Ten IR physicians graduated from this program during the study period, followed by another 3 per year going forward. Partner training programs in Uganda and Rwanda mirroring this model commenced in 2023 and 2024, respectively. ConclusionsThe reported training model offers a practical and effective solution to meet many of the challenges associated with the lack of access to IR in sub-Saharan Africa.

A fast hyperspectral change detection algorithm for agricultural crops based on low-rank matrix and morphological feature extraction

Crop change detection study is the foundation of agricultural sustainability. The inherent high spectral resolution of hyperspectral images, combined with multi-temporal datasets, facilitates the detection of subtle changes. To enhance the accuracy and applicability of hyperspectral change detection in agricultural scenes, this paper introduces a fast hyperspectral change detection approach for agricultural crops based on low-rank matrix and morphological feature extraction (FLRaMF). The goal is to improve detection precision and computational efficiency of the change detection process. The method initially employs rapid low-rank matrix extraction to separate changing and non-changing pixels in the spectral domain. Subsequently, spatial information is introduced using attribute profiles, restricting spectral anomalies through hyperspectral morphology, which ultimately improves the detection results. This study utilized four hyperspectral change detection datasets in agricultural crop scenarios, optimizing and analyzing parameters. Experimental results and analysis indicate that the FLRaMF method can achieve higher detection accuracy with reduced computation cost in unsupervised, default parameter scenarios when performing agricultural crop change detection tasks.