Traditional Practices Research Articles

Nanoscale Probing of the Organic Binder in Artists' Paint Layers: Organic Phases and Chemical Heterogeneity.

Understanding paint structures at the nanoscopic level can address key questions related to artistic techniques, paint formulation, and long-term preservation of artworks. This involves examining spatial chemical complexity, the formation of molecular networks, and interactions between organic and inorganic constituents. Depending on the paint preparation methods, proteins and drying oils, the most common binders in traditional artistic practices, can be integrated to produce paints with diverse structures and nanoscale chemical intricacies. In this study, we utilize atomic force microscopy-based infrared spectroscopy (AFM-IR) to investigate the spatial chemical complexity and reaction pathways of organic species in artists' paints, including oil, tempera, and mixed-media tempera grassa. By analyzing these paints at the nanoscale, we established connections between their structural organization, chemistry, and formulation.

Exploring Nexus between food security and the loss of agro-biodiversity: a study in Madhya Nepal, Lamjung

Nepal has made significant strides in enhancing food security, achieving a moderate hunger index of 15.0 in 2023. However, the relationship between food security and reduced agro-biodiversity remains underexplored. This study investigates this interplay in Madhya Nepal Municipality, Lamjung District, Gandaki Province. Using Food Consumption Score (FCS) and Reduced Coping Strategies Index (rCSI), the study assesses food availability, nutrition sources, and coping mechanisms. The methodology includes field surveys, interviews, and analysis of 30 years of climate data. Ward-wise investigations reveal challenges and opportunities through quantitative and qualitative approaches. Motivated by the complex dynamics affecting food security and agricultural practices amid evolving environmental conditions, this research highlights community struggles and opportunities. It emphasizes the need for a balance between traditional and hybrid agriculture, calling for adaptive strategies to address climate change impacts. Integrating traditional knowledge with scientific innovations is crucial for sustainable food production. Results show higher food stock in some wards due to drought-resistant crops, while others face challenges with traditional farming reliance. Climate data analysis indicates significant temperature increases, affecting rice adaptation and traditional practices. Increased adoption of hybrid crops, supported by irrigation and improved technical knowledge, boosts cereal productivity. The study concludes a positive correlation between agro-biodiversity and food security, highlighting diverse agricultural systems' importance in mitigating climate change challenges.

How do health, spirituality and well-being intersect in the Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA) Region 3? A Métis-guided, community-based, participatory study

ObjectivesThe purpose of our research was to understand intersections between health, spirituality and well-being in the Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA) Region 3.DesignThis Métis-guided, community-based, participatory research builds on our...

Regulatory Mechanisms of Signaling Pathways in Liver Cancer Treatment with Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), as a longstanding therapeutic approach, offers unique advantages and potential in the treatment of liver cancer. Recent studies have highlighted its role in preventing liver cancer progression by modulating key signaling pathways. TCM's multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway mechanisms of action have garnered significant attention in the medical community for their ability to address complex diseases like liver cancer. This review examines the current status and challenges in the application of TCM to regulate specific signaling pathways, including PI3K/Akt, NF-κB, TGF-β, Wnt/β-Catenin, and Notch, in liver cancer treatment. The goal is to further elucidate the critical roles of these pathways in liver cancer progression and provide new insights into the modern scientific interpretation of TCM. Literature was retrieved from PubMed and Web of Science databases using keywords such as "traditional Chinese medicine," "Chinese medicine," and "signaling pathway." The articles reviewed span from 2004 to 2024. TCM demonstrates significant therapeutic and preventive effects in liver cancer by modulating signaling pathways involved in tumorigenesis. These pathways influence processes such as cell growth, invasion, proliferation, and inflammatory responses, contributing to the anti-cancer effects of TCM. By modulating key signaling pathways such as PI3K/Akt, NF-κB, TGF-β, Wnt/β-Catenin, and Notch, TCM plays an important role in both the treatment and prevention of liver cancer, offering a promising therapeutic approach grounded in traditional practices and modern scientific understanding.

Sawan: exploring the knowledge and wisdom of Javanese traditional healing practices

Sawan: exploring the knowledge and wisdom of Javanese traditional healing practices

A Perspective on Women's Health With Cupping Therapy: A Review.

Cupping therapy is an ancient traditional and complementary treatment practice. Cupping therapy has recently attracted global attention in the promotion, protection, and treatment of health. Research is also being conducted on the potential benefits of cupping therapy in the treatment of conditions related to women's health. This study provides an overview of the application of cupping therapy in the field of women's health and an understanding its importance.

Exploring natural ventilation strategies in Javanese vernacular houses for sustainable design

ABSTRACT This study investigates natural ventilation strategies in Javanese vernacular houses to enhance sustainable building design tailored to local climates and promote comfort and environmental sustainability in Javanese communities. It examines adaptations of these strategies in rural (Saradan) and urban (Laweyan) contexts using a comprehensive methodology comprising document analysis, literature review, stakeholder interviews, and case studies. Insights from classical texts and architectural records inform traditional values and principles related to energy sustainability, supplemented by perspectives gathered through interviews with homeowners, architects, and cultural experts on integrating local values into sustainable practices. The findings reveal that in Saradan’s rural areas, expansive layouts and natural elements effectively facilitate natural ventilation, utilizing large courtyards and strategically positioned windows to optimize airflow and thermal comfort. In contrast, Laweyan’s urban setting employs compact designs with smaller openings and internal courtyards to manage airflow and mitigate heat accumulation. The study illustrates how traditional Javanese architectural practices adapt to contemporary contexts, supporting energy efficiency and occupant well-being while reconciling technological advancements with cultural heritage preservation. It offers insights for architects, researchers, and policymakers to develop guidelines and innovations that optimize Javanese ventilation strategies across diverse climatic conditions and explore their socio-economic impacts.

Understanding barriers to young people’s utilisation of sexual and reproductive health services in Asia-Pacific countries: a qualitative systematic review and thematic synthesis

IntroductionBased on the United Nations’ sustainable development goals, universal access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services should be attained by 2030. Yet, large inequalities in adolescent SRH knowledge and...

Nicolai F. Mokshin on the Ethnic History of the Chuvash

This is the first time Professor Mokshin’s publications devoted to ethnic history of Chuvash people are analyzed. The article addresses various ethnonymic issues, historical and geographical works, as well as anthropological, archaeological, ethnographic and folkloric passages. The author of these lines recollects Nikolai Fyodorovich as an impetuous man, an uncompromising debater who knew how to raise a new point to clarify any dispute. Thus, so far, Academician M. N. Tikhomirov, member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, was considered to have put an end to the discussion about whether the ‘Veda’ ethnonym had been applied to the Chuvash. However, N. F. Mokshin noted that there was actually an uncertainty in M. N. Tikhomirov’s observation. When M. N. Tikhomirov spoke of the Chuvash, he meant the Cheremis, the Vedas, or the Burtas. Therefore, N. F. Mokshin provided a clearer historiography of the identity of “the Veda = the Chuvash”. He also undertook expeditions to Mordovia, Chuvashia and the Gorky Region to find out how the ethnonym ‘Veda’ was used by the Mordovians. At the same time, he was the first to show that Mordovian names and surnames were derived from the word ‘veda’. It is probably no coincidence that it is among the Mordovians that one can find people with Chuvashov surname. N. F. Mokshin also wrote about the affinity of the peoples of the Volga and Urals regions in terms of their traditional practices and beliefs, insisting that the Bulgars and Suvars were two different peoples, not one. He used numerous facts to show the process of the Kypchakization of the Tatars and, consequently, the Tatarization of the Chuvash. N. F. Mokshin’s works are distinguished by their topicality and novelty.

Traditional insights into ITK and its delineation for sustainable crop protection

The challenge of producing sufficient food to feed the growing population is aggravated by pests and diseases, with insect pests alone causing 15-20 percent losses in food production. Despite the availability of numerous synthetic and conventional pesticides, traditional practices, known as Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITK), have been utilized by farmers for generations and have been adequate to date. These practices are deeply rooted in local culture and are environmentally safe. ITKs are a wealth of agricultural wisdom intertwined with religious and cultural beliefs that have significantly contributed to plant protection. It considers the interconnectedness of all living beings and the natural environment. In the context of the current scenario, it is essential to preserve and safeguard these traditional practices. Numerous government centres and policies are dedicated to this goal, recognizing the importance of documenting ITK for future use. Although ITKs were initially practiced without scientific validation, modern research has characterized and supported many of these methods. This review emphasizes the significance of Indigenous Technical Knowledge, the support systems in place and the necessity of detailed documentation and scientific characterization of ITK in use. By focusing on preserving and validating ITKs, we can reduce reliance on harmful chemical pesticides, promote sustainable agricultural practices and ensure food safety and security.

A Review and Discussion of Current Developments Involving Bonded Concrete Overlays of Airfield Pavements

Fully-bonded portland cement concrete overlays have been widely used by the U.S. military to rehabilitate rigid airfield pavements that have functional deficiencies – such as roughness, surface profile, poor friction, or foreign object damage (FOD) potential. Significant developments in the concrete industry over the last 15 years – including considerable changes in concrete material additives, construction practices, surface preparation, and computer modeling – have led to changes in traditional practices. A survey of the recent literature in relevant topics led to the synthesis of applicable developments from several areas. New research on failure mechanisms, surface preparation, bonding agent use, and interface texture has provided fresh insight regarding some conventionally-accepted wisdom. Integrating contemporary findings into recommended practice should improve the oft-times variable nature of achieving the best bonding conditions for bonded overlays and ultimately improve their reliable long-term performance.

Reducing product waste within the retail industry: a post-COVID-19 era study on enhancing demand prediction with hybrid prediction models

ABSTRACT The retail sector faces growing challenges, particularly aligning with the European Union’s sustainable policies to minimize waste. This paper proposes a framework to address two pivotal goals: i) Introducing cutting-edge machine learning models to forecast demand within the context of a post-COVID environment. ii) Evaluating the benefits of integrating these predictive into operational strategies by measuring the reduction in overstock levels compared to traditional business practices. The hybrid Prophet-XGBoost model consistently outperformed classical and other hybridization models in terms of accuracy (lowest MAPE and WAPE), when predicting demand. This study uses data from 2019 to 2023 but excludes 2020 and 2021 due to the disruptions caused by COVID-19. Our findings reveal that relying solely on recent data from 2022 to 2023 results in lower model accuracy compared to historical imputation methods. Notably, substituting 2019 values for 2021 outperforms interpolating with data from 2022. Beyond its methodological advancements, this research introduces a novel approach to quantifying overstock reduction, contributing to both academic literature and retail practice. In this case, we observed a significant overstock issue with non-food products, likely tied to agreements between retailers and suppliers. As these products are non-perishable, retailers appear to have been less cautious in managing stock levels.

Intersections with Indigeneity in Psychedelic Buddhism

Approaches to Psychedelic Buddhism are at times extractive, at times collaborative; they at times respect roots and lineages, and at times innovate, eschewing traditional practices. By analyzing them through the Indigenous logics of authority found in Indigenous plant medicine communities and the Buddhist tradition, we can better understand novel syncretic psychedelic traditions and work towards more ethical engagements with Indigeneity in psychedelic religion.

Medical Problems of Chronic Hypoxia in Highlanders Living on the Tibetan Plateau.

Ri-Li Ge. Medical problems of chronic hypoxia in highlanders living on the tibetan plateau. High Alt Med Biol. 00:00-00, 2024.-Health issues at high altitudes arise due to the lower atmospheric pressure and subsequent reduction in the partial pressure of oxygen in ambient air. While much research has been published on health problems of lowlanders who move to high altitudes, less is known about the medical challenges faced by long-term and permanent high-altitude residents, especially in the Qinghai-Tibetan plateau. In this review, we briefly summarized the chronic hypoxia-related health issues in highlanders, focusing on the specific population of the Qinghai-Tibetan plateau. It deals with important health problems for highlanders, including the main disease categories, from chronic mountain sicknesses and pulmonary hypertension (PH) to kidney, neurocognitive impairments, perinatal problems, and congenital heart defect. However, the most hallmark of disorders is excessive erythrocytosis associated with specific symptoms and signs, and high-altitude heart disease is characterized by excessive PH, right ventricular hypertrophy, and right heart failure. We also provide information on potential treatment strategies, including some traditional Tibetan medical practices and also a combination of Western medicine and traditional Chinese medicine to prevent and treat these conditions effectively. This mini-review is heavily based on a couple of decades of research carried out by Chinese high-altitude medical research groups at the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. We believe that this review will provide valuable perspective to researchers whose study interest and base lie in high altitude.

Scientific Literacy to Address Sustainability: A Study on Deep-Sea Mining Education with Adolescents from a Social Care Institution

Pursuing sustainable development is increasingly urgent due to resource depletion and environmental degradation, compounded by the need for a green energy transition requiring significant mineral resources. Traditional mining practices result in several environmental impacts, prompting the exploration of alternatives, like mining the ocean floor. This method offers a potentially less invasive way to obtain critical minerals. Notwithstanding, our understanding of the ocean ecosystem, which is crucial to Earth’s life support system, is still too limited. This study aimed to assess an educational intervention on sea mining for polymetallic nodules while improving scientific literacy and system thinking and supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4, 13, and 14. A pre-/post-intervention design was implemented with 17 adolescents (aged 12–16 years) from an underprivileged non-formal context. The mixed-methods approach involved role-playing and modelling activities focused on the question: “Do you agree with mining polymetallic nodules in deep-sea waters”? The Wilcoxon test revealed that the intervention changed participants’ opinions about the theme, showing a statistically significant difference in student responses before and after the intervention (Z = −2.165; p = 0.030). A content analysis showed enhanced argumentation, understanding of Earth’s subsystems, and decision-making abilities. These findings suggest that the educational resource positively impacted students’ scientific literacy on the topic. This approach can be extended to other contexts and inform future investigations.

Decentralized worker-centred occupational management in health care: nationwide survey and alpha testing.

Occupational stress among healthcare workers negatively impacts job satisfaction and patient care quality, jeopardizing healthcare system sustainability. Traditional employer-driven approaches often fail to address these challenges comprehensively, leading to persistent gaps in work condition transparency and well-being. To elucidate the working conditions of health workers and introduce a worker-centred, technology-based strategy moving beyond traditional practices and entrenched medical culture. A nationwide survey of Belgian medical residents evaluated occupational conditions and perceptions of management practices. Additionally, the alpha version of a decentralized mobile application was tested to gather user satisfaction and feedback on its usability. The data were surveyed using Pearson's chi-squared and Kruskal-Wallis rank sum tests to assess associations between categorical and ordinal variables, respectively. Alpha-testing results were evaluated using descriptive statistics. The nationwide survey, involving 257 participants, revealed significant associations between medical specialty, work choices and compensation. Notably, 91% of participants expressed strong interest in our proposed open, decentralized solution. In the alpha testing phase, 12 testers reported high satisfaction regarding time-tracking accuracy and payroll verification, though challenges related to administrative burden were also identified. The findings underscore the need for innovative, worker-centred occupational management solutions. The proposed solution shows promise in improving autonomy and transparency, potentially enhancing healthcare delivery and sustainability.

Detection and Phylogenetic Analysis of an Exotic Strain of Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus and Its Effect on an Affected Herd Immunized Against the Endemic Strain in Thailand.

Porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED) is caused by the PED virus, with genogroup 2 (G2), comprising G2a and G2b, being the primary contributors to outbreaks worldwide. In Thailand, G2a was the only virulent strain identified until the emergence of the first G2b strain in 2014, followed by additional G2b strains in 2015-2016, particularly those closely related to virulent strains from China. This led to increased awareness of more frequent and complex outbreaks. This study examined farms affected by G2a and G2b strains, both employing planned exposure of sows to intestines from G2a-affected piglets, a traditional practice in Thailand. The analysis focused on the milk and colostrum profiles of sows, including viral neutralization and ELISA methods, as well as histopathological assessments of piglet intestinal villi. Additionally, a novel G2b strain was sequenced for phylogenetic and protein structure analyses. The results revealed no significant differences in colostrum and milk profiles between the farms. However, piglets infected with G2b showed significantly more severe intestinal damage. A unique insertion in the protein structure of the novel G2b strain led to the identification of a new epitope and potential changes in viral properties. This study highlights the importance of monitoring emerging strains and provides valuable insights for enhancing preventive strategies and advancing phylogenetic research.

Assessment of the inclusiveness of health services and challenges in the context of scheduled tribes in Kerala

This study investigates the health challenges faced by scheduled tribes (S.T.s) in Kerala, a state renowned for its progressive health indicators. Despite significant advancements in healthcare, S.T.s remains marginalised, with a population of 484839 as per the 2011 census. The paper aims to assess the inclusiveness of health services, explore the stagnation of health outcomes in tribal areas, evaluate the effectiveness of health policies, and examine the adequacy of existing health infrastructure. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study reveals high illiteracy rates and limited access to employment as primary barriers to social and economic progress. Approximately 90 percent of the tribal population engages in seasonal, low-income labour, and around 80 percent live below the poverty line. Health issues prevalent among these communities include malnutrition, anaemia, and high rates of infectious diseases, exacerbated by inadequate sanitation and water facilities. The study highlights a concerning reliance on traditional practices, leading to underutilisation of available health services. Key findings indicate that maternal health and hygiene are critical areas needing intervention, particularly regarding menstrual health issues. The functioning of community health workers, such as ASHAs, requires enhancement to ensure timely access to healthcare information and services. Recommendations emphasise the need for targeted educational initiatives, improved employment opportunities, and better maintenance of health infrastructure to foster inclusivity and address the pressing health challenges faced by scheduled tribes in Kerala.

Review: Exploring Current Status and Future Potential Organic Farming Practices in Fiji Islands.

Purpose: Organic farming in Fiji represents a sustainable approach to agriculture that aligns with the nation's rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, and commitment to environmental conservation. This study examines the potential of organic farming to enhance soil health, reduce dependence on chemical inputs, and promote ecological balance. By integrating traditional Fijian agricultural practices with modern organic techniques, farmers can increase crop yields while preserving natural resources. Methodology: The research reviews the current status of organic farming in Fiji, key challenges, the importance of organic farming in Fiji, and future potential for capacity-building among local farmers. It also identifies opportunities, such as the growing global demand for organic products and Fiji's strategic position within the Pacific region. Organic farming in the Fiji Islands offers a sustainable approach to agriculture that aligns with the nation's ecological and cultural context. Findings: The findings of the review highlights that organic farming hold significant value to sustainability and production of safer food. The purpose of the review is to explore the current state of organic farming practices in Fiji. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: This review contributed to policy formulations and, methods of adoption of organic principles, and their impact on environmental health, food security, and rural livelihoods. The literature also contributes that a transition to organic farming can support Fiji's goals of achieving food security, economic resilience, and environmental sustainability and the practice of traditional agricultural methods to contribute towards United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by relooking at agricultural practices and policies in place by stakeholders in Fiji Islands.

The Application of Action Research in Kindergarten: Analysis of the Professional Development Model of Preschool Educators for the Reggo-Inspired Educational Practice

This paper presents the results of an action research conducted in a kindergarten in Sarajevo Canton. The participants were four female kindergarten educators who collaborated with two university professors who took the role of research leaders and moderators of reflective meetings. The action research was conceived as a model of professional development for preschool teachers in the Reggio pedagogy field, aiming to develop the skill of documenting pedagogical observation and the competence of implementing reflective practice (RP below the text) based on the Reggio principles. Data were collected on two levels: the educators documented their educational practice (photos, transcripts, videos, etc.), which was the basic material for analysis at collaborative reflective meetings, and all of it was documented by the research leaders. The data were analyzed simultaneously during the research (to decide on further action) and finally at the end of the research. The results of the research indicate that the action research raised awareness of the elements of traditional educational practice and developed the skills of pedagogical documentation management and the skill of implementing RP. Considering the limited time period for the realization of the research (14 months), significant but not optimal results were achieved, and there is still room for further progress in terms of improving the skills of keeping records and the capacity of RP implementation. It is necessary to systematically provide support for the professional development of educators through the development of reflective learning communities in kindergartens instead of the one-off and lecture-based forms that are offered.