Seeking Solutions Research Articles

Indigenous justice frameworks for relational ethics in land-based design

ABSTRACT In the face of systematic expropriation, massive biodiversity loss, and the ongoing climate crisis, Indigenous peoples, knowledge, and labor have protected over 80% of the global biodiversity. This is remarkable given that Indigenous management or tenure remains over 20–25% of the planet’s terrestrial surface. Indigenous people’s capacity to protect biodiversity within their territories cannot be separated from the ethical frameworks that shape their relationships with land. These frameworks have been articulated by a diverse array of Indigenous scholars across the globe, and while they cannot be generalized, many share principles that go beyond dominant Western Scientific approaches that normalize utilitarian or idealized (e.g. ideals of wilderness) ethical systems. We argue that dominant policy and research discourses around land-based practices such as nature-based solutions and green infrastructure, will not be effective ‘solutions’ to ongoing crises of climate change and biodiversity loss. Instead, we must go beyond paradigms of improvement and anthropocentric utility and ground land-based practices in the paradigm of relational ethics. Through this perspective paper, we argue that rather than seeking solutions through redesigning ecosystems for utilitarian reasons, all interventions on Indigenous ancestral lands (recognized by settler states or not) should first center relational ethical approaches for land-based design practices and ground efforts in Indigenous justice. Our proposed ‘Indigenous Justice Frameworks for Relational Ethics in Land-based Design’ is based on the inseparability of bodies, lands, and knowledges, and is guided by the following elements: (1) generative refusal, (2) centering healing, reparation, and right relations, and (3) restoring and evolving Indigenous governance.

Scaling of N-Type Field-Effect Transistors Based on Aligned Carbon Nanotube Arrays.

Wafer-scale aligned carbon nanotubes (A-CNTs) are promising candidate semiconductors for building high-performance complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) transistors for future integrated circuits (ICs). A-CNT-based p-type field-effect transistors (P-FETs) have demonstrated excellent performance and scalability down to sub-10 nm nodes. However, the development of A-CNT n-type FETs (N-FETs) lags far behind, in regard to their electronic performance and device scaling. In this work, we fabricated top-gated N-FETs based on A-CNTs with a scandium (Sc)-contacted source and drain. High-performance A-CNT N-FETs were demonstrated with record on-state current (Ion) exceeding 1 mA/μm and peak transconductance (gm) of 0.4 mS/μm. Interestingly, the A-CNT N-FETs exhibited abnormal scaling behavior owing to the lateral oxidation of low-work function source/drain contacts, leading to formidable challenges to scale both the gate length (Lg) and the contact length (Lc) at the same time. Understanding of the abnormal scaling behavior contributes to seeking solutions for high-performance A-CNT N-FETs, and it paves the way for future CNT CMOS digital IC technology.

Problematic aspects of the doctor-patient relationship in international human rights law

Numerous precepts of international law can and must be taken into consideration even before domestic rules when seeking solutions to the many problematic legal cases that arise in the professional doctor-patient relationship. In fact, international law also constitutes in this matter a complex of provisions that are often more articulated than state regulations, and therefore can well serve as a priority source of positive regulations or exegetical indications. Moreover, it ensures identical rules for identical cases, provided that the State has provided for the adaptation of its own legal system.

Understanding medical students’ transition to and development in clerkship education: a qualitative study using grounded theory

BackgroundMedical students perceive the transition to clerkship education as stressful and challenging and view themselves as novices during their rotation in clerkship education. The developmental perspective is thus important because the transition to clerkship supports rather than hinders growth. Accordingly, this study examines medical students’ transition to clerkship and their developmental features.MethodsIn-depth interviews were conducted with 18 medical students or graduates who had completed clerkships as medical students. Based on Straussian grounded theory, the collected data were analyzed in terms of the differences between pre- and post-clerkship education.ResultsOur data analysis revealed five stages of the transition process: “anticipation and anxiety,” “reality check,” “seeking solutions,” “practical application,” and “transition and stability.” The core category, that is, “growing up from being students to being student doctors,” was driven by patients who perceived the participants as student doctors. Meanwhile, the participants recognized that having a solution that is agreed upon by colleagues was more important than knowing the correct answer. The participants undergoing the transition to clerkship showed developmental features divided into three categories: personal, social, and professional. Specifically, they attempted to balance clerkship and life through personal development, learned to navigate around the hospital and reduced tension through social development, and developed clinical competencies focused on efficiency through professional development.ConclusionsThis study explores the process of students’ transition to clerkship education and the developmental features that emerge during this period. The students were motivated by patients who perceived them as student doctors. Through the transition, they maintained a work-life balance and adapted to hospitals but developed an overly doctor-centered attitude by cultivating clinical competencies with a focus on efficiency. To develop them into medical professionals, it is essential to assist their transition and cultivate a patient-centered attitude.

Struggling for Islamic Caliphate in a Changing Malay Society

Despite being banned by the government, HTI continues to struggle for Islamic caliphate as a clandestine movement. This study is aimed to explain factors resulting in the relatively successful penetration of caliphate ideology in a changing Malay society, as represented by Bangka Belitung Archipelagic Province. It employed a qualitative approach through the library study of both offline and online data sources in order to gain a holistic comprehension of HTI’s success. The research results elaborate HTI’s mobilization strategies as the internal factor and the context of changing Malay society and the dysfunction of moderate socio-religious organizations as the external factor contribute to HTI’s success in the changing society. Mobilization strategies comprising the intensive implementation of religious learning and preaching, publication, public demonstration, good relation and network with local important figures, and the competent use of communication and information technology become effective in the context of changing Malay society reconstructing identity and seeking solutions to its social and economic problems. In addition, the dysfunction of moderate socio-religious organizations producing a theological vacuum accentuates HTI’s relative victory. Thus, the performance of HTI depends on its internal capabilities and external context and the function of socio-religious organizations in society.

Interdisciplinary collaboration: addressing global challenges through innovative learning strategies

In this era of globalization, students in Indonesia face increasingly complex challenges in understanding, addressing, and contributing to global issues. However, the existing curriculum often fails to provide adequate perspectives and skills to tackle these global problems. Therefore, this research aims to provide students with a holistic, practical, and relevant learning experience to address global challenges through a Team-Based Project strategy that integrates compulsory courses in higher education with a global citizenship education approach. Cross-curricular collaboration helps students see the interconnectedness of various disciplines, which is essential in addressing complex global issues. Survey results indicate a variation of views among student groups regarding their understanding of global issues. This innovative learning strategy utilizes principles of behaviorist theory, such as stimulus-response, positive reinforcement, and social interaction, to create an engaging, relevant, and responsive learning environment tailored to students' needs. Through involvement in joint projects focused on global issues, students are stimulated to contribute and take concrete actions in seeking solutions and bringing about positive change on a larger scale. Thus, this learning strategy is expected to enhance students' understanding, skills, and commitment to addressing global challenges in the contemporary era.

‘상실’과 ‘저항’: 두브라프카 우그레시치의 포스트유고슬라비아 에세이즘과 그 함의

This research is devoted to the exploration of the implications of the Post-Yugoslav essayistic writings(Post-jugoslavenska esejistička proza) by Dubravka Ugrešić, one of the major contemporary female writers in Croatia through the analysis of their main themes and narrative features. It is the genre of essay that came to the fore in her literary works after she chose to live as an exiled writer. On the whole, it is the feeling of ‘loss’(gubitak) and the attitude of ‘resistance’(otpor) that underlie her essayistic writings, which are subsequently classified into five groups from the thematic points of view as follows. The first one is related to the nostalgic feeling of loss from the disappearance of Yugoslavia and includes those essays that criticize the confiscation and manipulation of the historical memories of ex-Yugoslavia in the new nation states that came to being after the disintegration of SFRY and during the outbreak of the Yugoslav interethnic violences and civil wars. The second group comprises the essays that provide the microscopic observations on the current situations in the Western Balkans in the transitional post-communist period. The third group of essayistic writings addresses the mutual recognitions between the East and the West of Europe, and the changes in recent Europe, caused by refugees and labour migration. The fourth group of essays examines the current status of literature including those ones and their writers in the Western Balkans and emphasizes the necessity of the proper consideration of the transnational literature as an alternative to the conservative national literatures, which have relied on the exclusive nationalistic cultures and have contributed to the identity politics. The fifth group of essays in Ugrešić’s oeuvre is related with the feministic criticism of patriarchal culture and misogyny in the Western Balkans. Based on the frequently repeated narratological elements, the above-mentioned themes are expressed through the authorial colorful tones and writing styles from the writings in fragments and short manifestoes to the long sarcastic feminist critiques and serious political interpretations with the view of diagnosing the crises of humanness(humanitas) from the Western Balkan countries to the West European societies. Ugrešić’s essayism originated from her diverse existential experiences as an exiled writer, and therefore needs to be considered as the heterogeneous and multilayered discourses that lead the readers to the deep contemplation and seeking solutions to the frustrating circumstances after the collapse of the communist countries.

Towards a Community-Based Framework for Flood Risk Management in Woodlands Park, Gweru

AbstractUrban flood risks in Zimbabwe emanate from the twin challenges of rapid urbanisation and climate change. Most urban settlements have become increasingly anchorages, which require increased adaptation through the sustainable management of urban storm water. Building on the Woodlands Park case in Gweru, this paper locates the problem of recurrent floods to the impasse between residents and council authorities on the one hand, and climatic risks reinforcing underlying rapid urbanisation challenges on the other hand. The purpose of the study was to gather the views of residents and their role in seeking solutions to the storm water management challenges. Utilising a mixed methodology, insights were drawn from field observations and purposive selection of 50 household representatives, triangulated with the views of officials from Gweru City Council (GCC). Data were obtained through in-depth interviews using semi-structured questions and analysed using thematic content analysis where participants’ views were grouped into themes according to their resemblance. By utilising Vensim PLE 7.3 Software, we applied systems thinking theory to reveal the interconnectedness of the factors leading to heightened storm water challenges. The findings showed that Woodlands Park lacks proper drainage installations that meet the standards of GCC. Some residents use personal resources to make storm drains on their yards but with differing structural dimensions. The local drainage system gets choked by silt and illegally dumped litter. Municipal authorities do not undertake routine annual drain reticulation operations, exposing houses to flooding. We argue that municipal authorities, land developers and the residents have not equitably collated their efforts to create bargained storm water management initiatives. The study proposes a community-based, low-cost flood resilience framework that engages residents with technical guidance from municipal staff.

Geographic poverty caused by distance to market

Poverty is a key challenge to socioeconomic development globally. However, the degree to which distance from a market contributes to poverty remains unclear. To provide insights into this relationship, we quantified the relationships between distance from markets and the per capita income of rural and urban people in China based on data from 29 provinces and 2651 counties. Our results illustrate the existence of a “geographical curse”; that is, a large separation between producers and consumers can exacerbate poverty for less-affluent rural residents, who pay a larger proportion of their income to send their products to market and to purchase goods from those markets. Programs to alleviate poverty should therefore consider seeking solutions associated with reducing the impact of that distance, such as subsidizing the transport of goods, improving the transportation infrastructure, supporting innovative business practices, and balancing the locations of producers and their markets.

Effect of Elastic Resistance on Exercise Intensity and User Satisfaction While Playing the Active Video Game BoxVR in Immersive Virtual Reality: Empirical Study.

One of the main contemporary forms of physical activity (PA) involves exercises and games in an immersive virtual reality (VR) environment, which allows the user to practice various forms of PA in a small space. Unfortunately, most of the currently available VR games and workout applications are mostly based on upper body movements, especially the arms, which do not guarantee sufficiently high exercise intensity and health benefits. Therefore, it is worth seeking solutions to help increase the exercise load during PA in VR. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of elastic arm resistance in the form of latex resistance bands of different elasticity levels on the intensity of students' PA while playing the BoxVR game. We further assessed the satisfaction of this form of exercise and its associations with PA intensity. A total of 21 healthy and physically fit men (mean age 22.5, SD 2.0 years) were included in the study. The tests consisted of 3 10-minute games. One game was run with no load and the other two were run with 1.5-meter latex resistance bands (low and high resistance). The order of the tests was randomized and the participants rested for 20 minutes after each exercise. Exercise intensity was estimated using objective (heart rate monitoring) and subjective (Borg scale) methods. The Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale was used to assess satisfaction with the PA. The effect of elastic resistance on exercise intensity and user enjoyment was estimated using ANOVA for repeated measures. The ANOVA results indicated that incorporation of elastic resistance caused a significant change (F2,40=20.235, P<.001; η²p=0.503) in the intensity of PA in VR, which was low while playing without resistance and then increased to a moderate level with additional resistance. The use of elastic bands also changed participants' perceptions of the enjoyment of exercise in VR (F2,40=9.259, P<.001; η²p=0.316). The students rated their satisfaction with PA in VR on a 7-point scale highly and similarly when exercising without an upper limb load (mean 6.19, SD 0.61) and with slight elastic resistance (mean 6.17, SD 0.66), whereas their satisfaction declined significantly (mean 5.66, SD 0.94) when incorporating a higher load. The intensity of PA among students playing the BoxVR game is at a relatively low level. With the added resistance of elastic bands attached to the upper limbs, the intensity of the exercise increased to a moderate level, as recommended for obtaining health benefits. Participants rated the enjoyment of PA in VR highly. The use of slight elastic resistance did not negatively affect satisfaction with the BoxVR game, although user satisfaction declined with a higher load. Further research should be undertaken to increase the effectiveness of exercise in VR so that regular users can enjoy the health benefits.

On some generalizations of Darbo- and Sadovskii- type fixed point theorems in Fréchet spaces

Integral equations form an essential part of nonlinear analysis. In many situations, when seeking solutions to such equations, we utilize fixed-point theorems. Among the most well-known and useful in this regard are the theorems of Darbo and Sadovskii, which generalize the classical results of Schauder and Tikhonov. These theorems have seen many generalizations. The aim of the paper is to strengthen (by weakening the assumptions) several known Darbo- and Sadovskii-type fixed-point theorems in the so-called power version for Fréchet spaces, which are particularly useful for studying the solvability of equations defined on an unbounded interval. A theorem on the existence of solutions to a nonlinear integral equation, illustrating the application of our main result, is also provided.

Moral Responsibility of Curators in the Liquidation of State-Owned Legal Entity Companies

This study aims to investigate the ethical responsibilities of curators in managing the liquidation process of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs). The method used is a literature review, examining various relevant sources to gain a deep understanding of the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by curators during the SOE liquidation process. The study's findings indicate that the moral responsibilities of curators encompass several critical aspects: protecting public interests by ensuring the continuity of essential services provided by SOEs tao the community, considering the welfare of affected employees by providing fair compensation and support in finding new employment, ensuring fairness for all stakeholders involved in the liquidation process through high transparency to support accountability, upholding integrity and high business ethics to avoid conflicts of interest and ensuring decisions are based on mature moral considerations, and considering the social and environmental impacts of SOE liquidation and seeking solutions that minimize negative consequences. This research provides important insights for curatorial practices and the ethical and responsible management of SOE liquidations. Curators are also advised to continuously enhance their skills and expertise through ongoing training and education to ensure the liquidation process is conducted fairly, transparently, and responsibly.

From unseen to seen in post-mining polluted territories: (in)visibilisation processes at work in soil contamination management

In line with EU recommendations, the potential ‘mining revival’ in France focuses on (re)opening mines. In this context, political discussions on post-mining areas have increased, driven by past mismanagements. Scientists are key in these regions, studying contamination, advising policy, and seeking solutions. Based on a case study of phytoremediation research in Saint-Laurent-Le Minier, we explore how lay and expert knowledge intersect. By examining what is hidden and by whom, we unveil research practices and stakeholder dynamics, sparking reflection on the research process while promoting a reflexive approach for researchers. We show research and its application spotlight specific topics (such as soil contamination), select, and make visible certain lay knowledge and local stakeholders and visibilises certain technological choices.

Bibliometric Study of Metaheuristics Application for Solving Inventory Routing Problem

Bibliometric Study of Metaheuristics Application for Solving Inventory Routing Problem

Measuring functions of remembering public events: Development of a functions of collective memory questionnaire

AbstractPrevious studies have demonstrated that people share their personal experiences with others for various purposes, such as gaining self‐understanding, socializing, and seeking solutions to current problems, among others. However, it remains unclear why people share collective experiences with others or whether they do so for reasons similar to those driving the sharing of personal experiences. In this study, we developed a questionnaire to identify and measure the motivations behind sharing collective experiences, including events like military coups, earthquakes, terrorist attacks, and more. The study involved 407 participants, spanning different age groups, from Turkey. The results reveal that (a) individuals share collective memories for reasons similar to those driving the sharing of individual memories and (b) the primary functions of collective memories include creating a collective identity, strengthening social bonds, fostering learning and understanding of past history, mitigating collective negative emotions, and guiding communities into the future.

Analysis of rainwater use in membrane-based semi-direct evaporative cooling of air

The trend of seeking solutions to reduce energy consumption in buildings is evident in the context of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technologies. One such solution with low energy consumption is direct evaporative cooling systems. However, the use of such systems is associated with an increase in fresh water consumption in buildings. The article presents a novel approach to air cooling, taking into account the sustainable building aims of designing buildings with low energy consumption and water conservation. The proposed system is a membrane-based semi-direct evaporative cooling system, which is fed by harvested rainwater. The study analyzed the potential of rainwater harvesting for direct evaporative cooling in ten cities. The cities selected for the analysis of system operation, are located in different climates according to the Köppen-Geiger classification. Water consumption for cooling at a base temperature of 26.7 °C was estimated using a mathematical model of the membrane module. Furthermore, the number of evaporative cooling hours per year was determined for this temperature. The system under analysis achieved a high coefficient of performance (COP) and a seasonal coefficient of performance (SCOP) of up to 183 and 133, respectively. Depending on the location of the building, the annual water consumption of the system ranged from 150 to 8859 dm3. The rainwater harvesting provided up to 100 % of the evaporative cooling requirements. The proposed solution reduces tap water consumption and lowers the temperature of fresh air supplied to indoor spaces while consuming low energy.

Perspektif Islam Tentang Dinasti Politik (Studi Kasus Isu Dinasti Politik Tahun 2023-2024)

Dynastic politics is a phenomenon that is currently being discussed by Indonesian people amid the 2024 presidential election campaign. This dynastic politics became a trending topic after the Indonesian president's son ran for vice president. The importance of finding a balance between political stability and justice is a major concern in addressing this issue. There are efforts from several elements of society and political activists to advocate for political reform that creates a more transparent and fair system. Therefore, the study of political dynasties that occurred in Indonesia needs to be studied more deeply. The article aims to describe and analyze the issue of political dynasties in Indonesia with a focus on the Islamic political context. This research is a qualitative literature review research with a phenomenological approach to research phenomena that are currently occurring. This research includes an analysis of the historical, structural, and ongoing social impacts of political dynasties within the framework of Islamic politics. The results of this research show that the issue of dynastic politics in Indonesia in 2023-2024 presents complex challenges, especially when viewed from an Islamic political perspective. By understanding these dynamics and seeking solutions that are in line with the principles of justice and democracy, Indonesia can steer itself toward a more inclusive and sustainable political system. In dealing with the issue of dynastic politics, aspects of accountability and transparency become a significant focus from an Islamic political perspective. These principles are considered crucial in protecting power and ensuring political action is by Islamic values. Through this research, it is hoped that it can open people's views to raise calls for political transformation and reform that reflects Islamic values ​​and leads to more just, transparent, and participatory political governance.

The development and evolution of the research topic on the mental health of college students: A bibliometric review based on CiteSpace and VOSviewer

BackgroundWith the advances in society and in response to changing times, college students have had to face multiple challenges. These challenges frequently affect the mental health of college students, leading to significant consequences for their social lives, personal well-being, and academic achievements, thereby attracting extensive societal attention. Therefore, examining the current status of research topics related to the mental health of college students can assist academia in dissecting the influencing factors and seeking solutions at their source or through early intervention. This can contribute to a better understanding of and effectively address this challenge. MethodCiteSpace and VOSviewer were used to conduct a bibliometric analysis of 1609 journal articles indexed in the Web of Science (WoS) database over the past two decades (2000–2022), which helped identify the current state of research and hot topics in the field based on development trends. Furthermore, this study analyzes and discusses the core authors, high-productivity countries and organizations, key journals, and keyword clustering in this field. This study clarifies the current research landscape, analyzes evolving trends based on developmental trajectories, and identifies forefront research hotspots. This study provides scholars with reference research directions and ideas for conducting subsequent studies. ResultsSince the beginning of the 21st century, research on college students’ mental health has increased, especially in the past three years, and due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and online distance learning, the number of publications has increased rapidly. With the increase in attention and publication volume, the countries and organizations contributing papers as well as core journals have all started to take shape. Cluster and evolution analyses found that several stable research topics have been formed in this research field, and many new and diverse topics are continuously emerging with time. Conclusionand prospect: The findings prove that the field of college students’ mental health has begun to take shape, gradually shifting from conceptual research to the implementation of specific interventions. However, whether specific interventions are effective and how effective they are require further investigation.

Quality Control of Doppler Spectra from a Vertically Pointing, S-Band Profiling Radar

Abstract This study describes a novel combination of methods to remove spurious spectral peaks, or “spurs,” from Doppler spectra produced by a vertically pointing, S-band radar. The University of Massachusetts S-band frequency-modulated, continuous-wave radar (UMass FMCW) was deployed to monitor the growth of the CBL over northern Alabama during the VORTEX–Southeast field campaign in 2016. The Doppler spectra contained spurs caused by high-voltage switching power supplies in the traveling wave tube amplifier. In the original data-processing scheme for this radar, a median filtering method was used to eliminate most of the spurs, but the largest ones persisted, which significantly degraded the quality of derived radar moments (e.g., reflectivity, Doppler velocity, and spectrum width) and hindered further analysis of these data (e.g., hydrometeor classification and boundary layer height tracking). Our technique for removing the spurs consists of three steps: (i) a Laplacian filter identifies and masks peaks in the spectra that are characteristic of the spurs in shape and amplitude, (ii) an in-painting method then fills in the masked area based on surrounding data, and (iii) the moments data (e.g., reflectivity, Doppler velocity, and spectrum width) are then recomputed using a coherent power technique. This combination of techniques was more effective than the median filter at removing the largest spurs from the Doppler spectra and preserved more of the underlying Doppler spectral structure of the scatterers. Performance of both the median-filter and the in-painting methods is assessed through statistical analysis of the spectral power differences. Downstream products, such as boundary layer height detection, are more easily derived from the recomputed moments. Significance Statement This manuscript describes a novel combination of image and signal processing techniques used to recover meteorological observations from corrupted Doppler radar spectra. This successful recovery of meteorologically significant information illustrates the importance of retaining Doppler spectra when practical. In seeking solutions to data quality issues, the atmospheric science community should remain cognizant of promising techniques offered by other disciplines. We present this data rescue study as an example to the meteorological community.

Digitally planned surgical crown lengthening: a novel bone reduction strategy to correct a gummy smile.

This report describes the bone reduction guide which was digitally obtained to improve diagnosis, treatment outcome and follow-up. Treatment of gingival smiles due to altered passive eruption should include interdisciplinary planning and smile design to facilitate the prediction of treatment outcome. Crown lengthening surgery can be supported by digital tools to improve surgical planning and follow-up. A 30-year-old female patient was referred to a private dental clinic seeking solutions for her gingival smile. Based on the anatomical crown length, a smile design was created, and the patient was presented with a simulated smile before treatment. In the surgical phase, a full-thickness flap was raised in the upper jaw to achieve the desired outcome. Using cone-beam computed tomography to determine cementoenamel junction for smile design and treatment planning brings many benefits. Patients and clinicians can foresee treatment results. From there, appropriate changes can be made. The bone reduction guide is designed to rest on the bone to help the clinician cut the bone accurately and thoroughly follow the established plan.