bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal litterfall dynamics in pine and oak forests of central forest steppe
Authors: Sheshnitsan Tatiana , Sheshnitsan Sergey
Published: November 2024

The study of litterfall dynamics is of particular relevance in the forest-steppe zone, where forest ecosystems are characterized by high variability of climatic conditions and soil characteristics. The aim of this study was to analyze the seasonal dynamics of litterfall in pine and oak forests. Litterfall was collected during the seasonal maximum input period, from August to November, and then subjected to laboratory fractionation and carbon content determination. The results demonstrated significant differences in the dynamics and magnitude of litterfall input between pine and oak forests. Maximum litterfall (69 g/m²) in pine forests was reached in October and was composed primarily of needles (59%) and branches/bark (28%), and in oak forests – 166 g/m2. The carbon content of the different litterfall fractions was found to be higher in pine forests than in oak forests. Seasonal carbon flux with litterfall was estimated to be 0.62 MgC/ha in pine forests and 1.12 MgC/ha in oak forests. The observed differences in the dynamics and carbon content of litterfall between two types of forests can be attributed to the biochemical and phenological differences between coniferous and deciduous trees. The findings are significant for the development of strategies for the sustainable management of forest ecosystems in the context of climate change.
Modeling of technogenic accidents and disasters in gis using the example of forest fire contour dynamics
Authors: Slezin Kirill , Kravchenko Andrey
Published: November 2024

The article discusses several geographic information systems (GIS) and identifies their main advantages and disadvantages. An approach to modeling forest fire dynamics using a geometric representation of expanding contours is described. A model of uniformly distributed contour expansion is developed. Macros for representing the model in GIS are presented. The process of modeling in GIS under various environmental conditions is examined.
Application of neural fuzzy classification in decision support systems
Authors: Gomzov Nikolay , Zolnikov Konstantin
Published: November 2024

The article proposes a classification of fuzzy information about the terrain for solving problems in the fields of agriculture and forestry. This classification allows for a more accurate description and understanding of the characteristics of fuzzy information, which can be useful for decision-making under uncertainty. Special attention is given to the area of forest fire modeling using geographic information systems. A hybrid fuzzy network is proposed for classifying the parameters of the fire source and the environment to select the optimal analytical model.
Utilizing computer modeling in reliability management of technological equipment in woodworking industries
Authors: Tsarkova Evgenia
Published: November 2024

A method for constructing a decision support system within the field of technical support for production operations in the penal institutions of the Russian Federation is being examined in this paper. Methods for managing the reliability of technological equipment used in the activities of departmental forest processing shops are studied. A maintenance management model for machine tools utilized in production is introduced, followed by testing the model with different sets of system parameters. The problem of optimizing the maintenance of forest processing equipment is formulated as an optimal control problem. Using explicit difference schemes, a discrete optimal control problem is constructed, for which the necessary optimality conditions are formulated. Taking into account the obtained relations, an algorithm for numerical solution of the problem using gradient methods is proposed.
A study on the convergence of lean and green management goals
Authors: Larinina Tatyana , Djoldosheva Tamara , Mottaeva Asiiat
Published: November 2024

Goal setting determines the transformation of production management methods and approaches. Real practice often differentiates Lean and Green approaches. At first glance, the indicators and metrics are so different that there is a feeling of the need to build the company’s organizational structure accordingly, allocate different budgets and implement different activities. This is largely due to the different standards and rules governing these approaches. The study examines the hypothesis that the goals of Lean and Green Management are convergent at the current stage of development. Understanding the possibility and even the need (in accordance with the Lean approach) to combine and minimize resources will increase the efficiency of manufacturing enterprises. The study showed that, despite the initial apparent difference of Lean and Green management goals, in fact, at least two of the three stated goals are convergent: 1) goals aimed at reducing resource consumption and 2) goals aimed at ensuring the growth of enterprise performance indicators. The third group of goals aimed at forming a conscious “lean” attitude of personnel to work, equipment, and the environment, apparently implies different understandings and interpretations. This may probably be due to the fact that Lean management operates more with material resources, while Green management is aimed at energy resources and the environment.
Ecological assessment and its importance for forest resource security
Authors: Ovchinnikova Svetlana , Idrisova Alla , Kostin Mikhail , Kuntuganov Ilyas , Polstyanov Pavel , Aliev Arsen
Published: November 2024

The forests of Krasnodar region are characterized by their uniqueness and rare biological diversity of forest species, the combination of two forest structural regions, which create a unique flavor of natural landscapes, their recreational attractiveness and ecological significance for Russia. The fall of one or more trees in a forest is a phenomenon usually associated with the natural dynamics of the ecosystem and accepted as such. When such events occur in forested areas or along wooded strips along busy suburban roads, the phenomenon is perceived as a traumatic event because of the possible negative consequences for people and property and the associated environmental impact. This creates a poor ecosystem that requires careful preventive action. Several factors, often in combination, can cause a tree to fall. The article presents the main results of monitoring carried out as part of a forestry case study. Through the analysis of meteorological data and the interpretation of geotechnical and geophysical surveys, some conclusions have been drawn about the causes of tree falls.
Comprehensive assessment of the efficiency of a mobile pulsation unit based on the results of its field tests
Authors: Akhmerov Artem , Osipov Airat , Dolgova Anastasia , Sinyavin Alexey , Khairullin Aidar , Iovlev Dmitry
Published: November 2024

Various methods of cleaning the bottomhole zone of an oil reservoir are considered: chemical, mechanical, thermal, acoustic, wave. The disadvantages and advantages of the practical application of hydropulse technologies are shown. To solve the problem of cleaning the bottomhole zone of an oil reservoir from asphalt-resinous and paraffin deposits, water-oil emulsions, salts, as well as generally increasing the well flow rate, a pilot industrial model of a mobile pulsation unit (MPU) has been developed, which allows for the treatment and repair of wells using pulsation technologies. The work evaluates the effectiveness of pulsation treatment using the MPU experimentally on an injection well of the Urustamak field. The results of pilot industrial tests of the mobile pulsation unit showed a 4.5-fold increase in the actual working potential of the well for injection. It was established that low-frequency pulsation action allows for intensifying the process of cleaning the bottomhole zone of the oil reservoir, in particular increasing the intake capacity by an average of 4 times.
Economic aspects of applying the cost approach to assessment of forest resources
Authors: Tretyakov Alexander , Kolarzh Vyacheslav , Karamyshev Viktor , Morkovina Svetlana
Published: November 2024

Precise and balanced economic evaluation of forest resources is considered as one of the vital conditions of their effective usage. The existing practice of forest resources valuation demonstrates huge gap between the overall evaluation theory and methodologies developed for the forestry. The article is devoted to cost approach to valuation in view of most sufficient types of forest usage and types of forest resources, and demonstrate the key weaknesses of implementation of cost approach to forest resources. The article also provides the brief description of possible solutions for revealed weaknesses mitigation.
Determining the economic efficiency of operating modern forestry machines
Authors: Svoikin F.V. , Rossikhin K.V. , Taraban M.V. , Kalyashov V.A. , Bozhbov V.E. , Borozna A.A. , Emelyanenkov A.V. , Emelyanenkova A.A.
Published: November 2024

The necessary measures to support the timber industry complex of the Russian Federation in the conditions of the new economic reality are given, experimental data are given on the performance of a forwarder based on snow and swamp-going equipment TROM 20 in the conditions of development of hard-to-reach logging sites in the Russian Federation in real natural and production conditions of the rental base of enterprises. The performance of the KS TROM 20 machine under various operating conditions was determined. An economic justification for the use of the KS TROM 20 forwarder in conditions of hard-to-reach logging sites based on theoretical calculations is presented. Based on the data obtained as a result of operation, the annual current effect and net present value of the theoretical option, the profitability index of discounted investments were calculated, and as a result, the payback period of the implemented equipment was obtained.
Rational environmental management as a guideline for the economic transformation of production relations
Authors: Pizhurin Andrey , Goncharova Oksana , Sazhneva Lioubov , Salazar Cristian
Published: November 2024

The article considers the conceptual foundations of rational nature management as a key reference point for the economic transformation of production relations. In the conditions of the modern world economy, characterised by the growing environmental crisis and limited natural resources, rational nature management is the most important factor of sustainable development. The authors analyze historical aspects of the evolution of production relations and identify the main stages of integration of environmental criteria into economic models. The aim of the study is to identify optimal mechanisms and tools that promote the harmonization of economic activity with environmental requirements. The study considers approaches to the formation of environmentally-oriented production processes and natural resource management at the level of enterprises and the national economy as a whole. It also analyses examples of successful integration of environmental principles into production practices in various countries and regions. Special attention is paid to the analysis of legislative and regulatory frameworks that ensure the implementation of the principles of rational nature management in the economy. The article offers recommendations for improving government policy and corporate strategies in the field of ecology; it also discusses the prospects for further development of environmentally oriented production models.
Determinants for sustainability of the innovation networks
Authors: Ivanov Lubomir , Parashkevova Evelina , Marinov Marin
Published: November 2024

Innovations are one of the major contributors to economic growth and sustainability, and innovation networks play a crucial role in the development, implementation and diffusion of new knowledge. They form connections between business and academic circles, offer ample opportunities for sharing key recourses, provide diverse knowledge, and facilitate the exchange of ideas. When enterprises participate in the networks, successful and sustainable outcomes are not guaranteed, those depend on many circumstances and have to be earned by proactive and determined actions. The main determinants for the sustainable positive results from the network’s activities are summarized in the paper in four groups: network structure, social capital, geographical localization and academic cooperation, firm’s policy and innovation culture. They could facilitate or detriment the beneficial effects and sustainability, increasing the importance of both organizational commitments through systematic and targeted efforts, and the support of the public authorities, expressed in either various financial instruments, organizational and procurement procedures, or legislative initiatives that help networks to develop an environment for sharing knowledge and innovations, increasing competitiveness, and contributing to the sustainable economic and social development.
Lipid profile of stallion seminal plasma and its influence on semen quality and cryoresistance
Authors: Atroshchenko M. M. , Shitikova A. M. , Nezalenova A. A. , Frolova N. A. , Shirokova O. V. , Marsyanova Yu. A.
Published: November 2024

Semen quality was assessed and lipid spectrum of seminal plasma was determined in 42 stallions of different breeds aged from 5 to 16 years (average 9.8±5.4 years). The concentration of total cholesterol, triglycerides, high density lipoproteins and low-density lipoproteins were determined in semen plasma. We found a negative correlation between the concentration of low- and high-density lipoproteins and progressive sperm motility in both fresh (p<0.05) and thawed (p<0.05) semen. We also found a negative correlation between the concentration of low-density lipoproteins in sperm plasma with total sperm motility in fresh (p<0.05) and frozen (p<0.01) semen, and the concentration of high-density lipoproteins in sperm plasma with total sperm motility in fresh and frozen semen (p<0.05). We found a significant negative correlation between ejaculate volume and concentration of triglycerides (p<0.05), cholesterol (p<0.01) and high-density lipoproteins (p<0.05). There was a positive correlation between sperm concentration and triglycerides (p<0.05), cholesterol (p<0.001) and high-density lipoprotein (p<0.01) content.
Seasonal variation in macronutrient content of stallion spermoplasm
Authors: Shirokova Olga , Atroshchenko Mikhail , Nezalenova Anastasia , Frolova Natalia , Romanova Alina
Published: November 2024

The effects of seasonal factor on the concentration of macronutrients: calcium, potassium, sodium, phosphorus, chlorine and magnesium in the spermoplasm of stallions (n=12) were studied. The average age of animals was 11.2±0.8 years, the animals were located in the central strip of Russia (Ryazan region). We established reliable differences between the content of macronutrients in spermoplasm depending on the season of the year. We obtained data on the dependence on the season of the year of calcium concentration by 30% (p<0.001), phosphorus by 15% (p<0.05). The maximum values of average concentrations of calcium, potassium and magnesium in spermoplasm were recorded in spring- summer period, sodium and chlorine concentrations in winter. It was also stated that phosphorus concentration had no significant changes in winter, fall and spring, but was lower in summer.
Genetically modified ecosystems: Innovative approaches in agriculture and their environmental impact
Authors: Choriyeva Zebiniso
Published: November 2024

The exploration of genetically modified ecosystems in agriculture has evolved significantly, presenting innovative solutions to global food security challenges while raising ethical, health, and ecological concerns. This literature review critically examines the advancements in genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and their regulatory frameworks, emphasizing their dual role in enhancing agricultural productivity and posing potential risks. Foundational studies highlight biotechnology’s ability to create herbicide-tolerant and insect-resistant crops, significantly reducing reliance on chemical pesticides. However, concerns about biodiversity loss, superweeds, and the long-term effects of GMOs remain pivotal in public debates. Emerging gene-editing techniques, such as CRISPR-Cas9, have revolutionized the field, enabling precise genomic modifications. This review identifies the need for adaptive regulatory frameworks to address the unique challenges posed by genome editing. Comparisons between traditional GMOs and gene-edited organisms reveal gaps in current governance, particularly in ensuring environmental sustainability and public trust. The role of public perception and transparent communication is underscored as critical to the acceptance and integration of GM technology. Moreover, the implications of regulatory disparities across regions, particularly between the European Union and other global markets, highlight the complexities of fostering innovation while maintaining safety and equity. This review advocates for balanced regulatory approaches that consider both safety and non-safety assessments, fostering a robust discourse on GMOs’ role in addressing food security, sustainability, and societal well-being. By aligning innovation with ethical and ecological considerations, this research contributes to understanding the intricate dynamics shaping agricultural biotechnology.
Assessing the motor activity of chickens based on artificial intelligence technology
Authors: Fomina A. S. , Sklyarenko A. A. , Dolgov V. V. , Vasiliev P. V. , Zelenkova G. A. , Kochetkova N. A.
Published: November 2024

The article describes an approach to automating the process of analyzing video recordings of bird behavior using artificial intelligence methods, with the aim of increasing production efficiency through the early detection of behavioral change markers in chickens. Currently, agricultural enterprises have a need for automatic assessment of the condition of livestock and poultry to identify signs of stress at an early stage. This approach will allow for minimizing losses and improving production indicators. In turn, the application of deep learning models will enhance the effectiveness of identifying animal behavior markers that may not be detected by a facility operator.
Lactation stability of Flegfix Simmental cows with different genotypes in the conditions of Uzbekistan
Authors: Shakirov Kakhramon , Soatov Utkir , Shayusupov Bobir , Otaganov Ibrokhim , Akhmedov Khurshid
Published: November 2024

The article presents the results obtained in the studies conducted in the Flegfix Simmental cows of different genotypes brought to the Republic from abroad. In the studies, the indicators of milk yield of cows were studied. In group I, 20% purebred Holstein and 80% purebred Simmental, obtained from crossbreeding with Red-Ola Holstein, were selected in groups II and III of pure breed Flegfix Simmental (Red-Ola). The milk yield of cows in the first lactation was studied in the natural climate, storage and feeding technological conditions of the imported cows of Uzbekistan.
The effect of fertilizers containing silicon on the yield of tomatoes and cucumbers
Authors: Sagdiev Mirkasim , Alimova Rano
Published: November 2024

The effect of preparations containing silicon: seliplant nanosilicon, Bona Forte biostimulator and sodium silicate on growth, development and yield was studied on hybrids of cucumber Pierre F1 and tomato Merlis F1. Studies have shown that when tomatoes are fed under the root, the product matures early and yields increase by 6.5-8.0 kg/ m2, and this indicator is due to an increase in the number of fruits (by 10-12%), and the average fruit weight increased by 18-23%. As a result of the use of silicon-containing fertilizers in the cultivation of cucumbers, an increase in the area of assimilation, an increase in the number and weight of the formed fruits was observed. Productivity and product quality increase, as well as the amount of dry substance increases and the amount of nitrates in products decreases, that is, it decreases from 382 mg/kg to 181-230 mg/kg. The reason for the maximum increase in cucumber yield by 5.3-6.5 kg/m2 was observed as a result of the use of bio stimulants containing seliplant and silicon.
Measures to combat diseases of melons and watermelon in Uzbekistan
Authors: Khalmuminova Gulchexra , Durshimbetov Ispandiyar
Published: November 2024

Today, the world’s population is increasing every year. Therefore, the demand for food is also growing. Among agricultural crops, legumes are of particular importance, and each person needs to consume a certain amount of them for health. Therefore, in scientific studies conducted by scientists in countries such as China, Turkey, Iran, India, Pakistan, Russia, who are involved in police activities, various diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms have been noted in police crops, including melons and watermelons. From these microorganisms, effective measures are being developed against root rot, fusarium wilt, verticillium, powdery mildew, downy mildew and other diseases caused by these microorganisms. As a result, the quantity and quality of multicultural crop yields increases.
Development of composition and technology of antidiabetic tablets based on medicinal plants
Authors: Kamilov Xusan , Zuparova Akhror kizi Zulfiya , Abraeva Zuxro , Yusupova Shoxista , Djanaev Gayrat
Published: November 2024

According to the WHO (World Health Organization), if the number of patients in 2021 was 529 million, it is estimated to reach 2.5 billion by 2050. Lack of timely and quality treatment, failure to follow a diet, and various other factors lead to adverse complications in the patient’s body, causing diseases in the immune and nervous systems, as well as the cardiovascular system. In the complex treatment of diabetes, in most cases, it may be appropriate to use additional medicinal plants that possess blood sugar-lowering activity. The optimal composition of an antidiabetic tablet based on dry extracts of medicinal plants has been developed. Mathematical methods of experimental design and Harrington’s desirability function were used to optimize the tablet’s composition. The article provides a detailed description of methods for calculating the values of individual and overall desirability functions. As a result of the research, the optimal composition of the tablet was determined, meeting the requirements of regulatory documents.
Influence of classical agrotechnics of crop cultivation on soil fertility in a forest ameliorated agro-landscape
Authors: Vedeneeva Varvara
Published: November 2024

The article presents the analysis of soil-climatic characteristics of forest ameliorated agrolandscape. It was found that in the conditions of light chestnut soils, the use of the classical farming system, namely, the combination of sideral fallow and cultivation of row crops and leguminous crops contributes to the accumulation of moisture in the soil. In the meter layer soil moisture in the agrolandscape was 14.35%, in the forest belt 10.65%. The ameliorative effect of the forest belt on reducing the proportion of physical clay in the granulometric fractions of soils under the forest belt was noted. At the same time, the organic carbon stock in the ameliorative protective forest belt averaged 21.3 tC/ha in the root-inhabited 30 cm soil layer, while in the agrolandscape - 23.0 tC/ha.
An approach of mechatronic transmission designing an ecologically friendly vehicle
Authors: Bokarev Aleksandr , Levochkin Artem , Rakhaev Sergey , Kartashov Aleksander , Gazizullin Ruslan
Published: November 2024

As a rule, the design process of any vehicle is divided into phases of conceptualization, development and industrialization. The most important is the conceptualization phase, on the good elaboration of which the final appearance and quality of the final product will depend. In terms of design, the fundamental engineering issue is the correct choice, interpretation and modelling of load conditions for cascading loads across all components of the power structure of the vehicle chassis. The most correct and classic vehicle chassis design process is based on the study of vehicle benchmarking. This article describes the process of developing the original geometry of the load-bearing arms of the mechatronic transmission of an energy efficient truck based on the study of a design vehicle benchmarking of a foreign manufacturer. The result of this article is a general demonstration of the advantages of using the «reverse engineering» method on the example of designing the load-bearing arms of a mechatronic transmission of an energy efficient truck, as well as confirmation of the adequacy and validity of the applied calculation modelling methods. The aim of the work is to develop design methods and gain experience in the field of computational research through the use of the «reverse engineering» method.
Genetically modified ecosystems: Innovative approaches in agriculture and their environmental impact
Authors: Rustamova Nodira , Inoyatova Sokhiba , Madazizova Dilfuza , Israilova Dildora , Israilov Shoolim
Published: November 2024

This article explores genetically modified ecosystems within the context of agriculture, focusing on the innovative approaches enabled by biotechnology and their environmental impact. Recent advancements in gene-editing techniques, as well as traditional genetic modification methods, have transformed agricultural practices, providing solutions for food security and agricultural sustainability. The literature review presented in this article highlights the dual nature of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in agriculture, demonstrating their potential benefits, including increased productivity and resilience, alongside significant ethical, health, and ecological concerns. The article emphasizes the need for evolving regulatory frameworks to ensure safe and responsible deployment of GM technology while encouraging public education and transparent risk assessment to gain societal acceptance. Ultimately, this study underscores the balance needed between technological innovation and precautionary measures to maximize the benefits of biotechnology in agriculture.
Ecological trends in Green Economy transition in industrial region
Authors: Dvinin Dmitry , Pletnev Dmitri , Zabelina Ekaterina
Published: November 2024

The article is devoted to the assessment of the achievement of existing global environmental trends related to the transition to a green economy using the example of an industrial region. The main trends in greening the regional economy are selected and assessed. It is established that the implementation of environmental trends in the Chelyabinsk region is very heterogeneous. The highest score was given to the trend related to the overall reduction of emissions into the atmosphere, which is explained by the implementation of comprehensive regional programs that made it possible to reduce the emission of pollutants. It was revealed that the situation is slightly worse with the transition to environmentally friendly transport, in the field of waste management and disposal and the preservation of natural ecosystems. The region has some achievements in this area, but they cannot be compared with the best world practices. It is noted that the region almost completely lacks activities to develop low- carbon energy and achieve carbon neutrality, green construction and greening of agriculture. These environmental trends can be taken into account in further adjustment of the environmental policy of the Chelyabinsk region.
Integration von KI-Anwendungen der bildgebenden Diagnostik – Ein Praxisbericht
Authors: Bröhan Anna Martina , Liguori Gino
Published: November 2024

Trotz des Wachstums an verfügbaren KI-Produkten wird eine Diskrepanz zwischen deren Verfügbarkeit und der täglichen Nutzung in Kliniken festgestellt. Der Artikel beleuchtet die Integration von KI-Anwendungen der bildgebenden Diagnostik in den klinischen Regelbetrieb und beschreibt wie klinische Nutzungspotenziale durch gezieltes Management erschlossen werden können. Der Beitrag legt den Fokus dabei auf konkrete Maßnahmen und Entscheidungsprozesse, die notwendig sind, um KI erfolgreich in die klinische Routine zu integrieren und gibt Einblicke in Beispiele aus der Praxis innerhalb eines Gesundheitskonzerns.
„Es tut mir leid“ – eine Entschuldigung vermittelt Wertschätzung und verbessert die Atmosphäre
Authors: von Campenhausen Jutta
Published: November 2024

Entschuldigungen haben in der Medizin einen schlechten Ruf. Dabei zeigen aufrichtige Worte des Bedauerns, dass der Arzt aufmerksam, empathisch und anspruchsvoll ist. Das verbessert nachweislich die Gesprächsatmosphäre. Haftungsrechtliche Folgen gibt es nicht.
A geospatial approach for dynamic on-road emission through open-access floating car data
Authors: Fung Pak Lun , Al-Jaghbeer Omar , Chen Jia , Paunu Ville-Veikko , Vosough Shaghayegh , Roncoli Claudio , Järvi Leena
Published: November 2024

This paper presents a geospatial approach for quantifying street-level on-road emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and carbon monoxide (CO). By leveraging an existing open-access database of real-time congestion information derived from floating car data, we tested three methods to map high-resolution dynamic traffic emissions. To demonstrate the robustness and accuracy of the methods, we showcased results for summer workdays and winter weekends in the Helsinki Metropolitan Area (HMA). The three methods employed include (1) a physics-based relation known as the macroscopic fundamental diagram, (2) a data-driven input-adaptive generalized linear model (GLM), and (3) their ensemble (ENS). These methods estimated traffic density with satisfactory accuracy (R
2 = 0.60–0.88, sMAPE = 31%–68%). Utilizing speed-dependent emission factors retrieved from a European database, the results compared favorably against the downscaled national emission inventory, particularly for CO2 (R
2 = 0.70–0.77). Among the three methods, GLM exhibited the best overall performance in the HMA, while ENS provided a robust upscaling solution. The modeled emissions exhibited dynamic diurnal and spatial behavior, influenced by different functional road classes, fleet compositions and congestion patterns. Congestion-induced emissions were calculated to account for up to 10% of the total vehicular emissions. Furthermore, to anticipate the forthcoming transportation transformation, we calculated emission changes under scenarios with various penetration rates of connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs) using this geospatial approach. The introduction of CAVs could result in emission reductions of 3%–14% owing to congestion improvements.
Forging Repertories
Authors: Davies Drew Edward
Published: November 2024

Forging Repertories:  Cathedral Music in New Spain and Its Performance explores the development of music repertories in colonial Mexico as a multi-faceted process indicative of early modern Hispanic religious culture. Organized thematically, its case studies and microhistories combine to show how colonial repertories mix European with locally composed pieces to create canons tailored to local liturgies yet shaped by tradition. Discussion of music by Manuel de Sumaya, Juan Gutiérrez de Padilla, Ignacio Jerusalem, and others shows how composers, some of them priests, communicate theological doctrine through music genres. The unique repertory of music for St. Peter in New Spain contains notably erudite gestures that celebrate the secular church itself. The book also critically tackles issues of cultural encounter, assessing how music was used for indoctrination and rethinking stereotypes in some villancicos through the lens of topic theory. Building upon material from the archives of Mexico City, Durango, and Puebla cathedrals over a 300-year period, it stresses how improvised music complemented notated compositions, highlights the contributions of lesser known figures, and charts the development of music for the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The book concludes with a history of the early music movement’s revival of New Spanish music beginning in the 1960s and argues that exoticism and the imagination continue to shape performances in ways that may not be plausible historically, but nonetheless resonate with audiences in the contemporary world. In so doing, the book invites performers and scholars alike to engage with broader repertories of New Spanish music moving forward.
Third-Party Duress
Authors: Dougherty Tom
Published: November 2024

Chapter 7 considers duress that comes from an agent who is a “third party,” in the sense that they neither give nor receive consent. Third-party duress is theoretically puzzling because sometimes it invalidates consent and sometimes it does not. The Crockery Dilemma—Request case illustrates how third-party duress need not prevent consent from being fully valid. In this case, Bully threatens to smash Victim’s vase unless Bystander smashes Victim’s teapot. Bystander is aware of the conditional threat but cannot prevent Bully from smashing the vase. Victim asks Bystander to smash the teapot. To handle this case, Chapter 7 introduces the Authorization Principle. Roughly, this principle states that someone’s consent to an action is fully valid when they are authorizing the consent-receiver to perform the action as an extension of their own agency. To make room for the Authorization Principle, there must be qualifications built into the Third Party Principle that governs third-party duress. This principle’s rough idea is that, unless someone is suitably authorizing an action, their consent to the action is not fully valid when it is given in response to third-party duress against which they have a legitimate complaint.
The Peloponnesian War
Authors: Roberts Jennifer T.
Published: November 2024

This chapter focuses on the Peloponnesian War. The roots of the Peloponnesian War of 431–404 lay in the tensions that had arisen when the Greek world became a bipolar one following the foundation of the Delian League under the hegemony of Athens in 478. The preoccupation of the imperial navy with the war against the Peloponnesians would prompt rebellions in Athens’s empire, which promptly occurred in 428. The chapter then provides an overview of the major developments that occurred in the Greek world following the Athenians’ miscalculations in Sicily. It explains the friendship between the Spartan high admiral Lysander and the young Persian prince Cyrus that ultimately proved fatal for Athens.
Epic, tragedy, history
Authors: Roberts Jennifer T.
Published: November 2024

This chapter explains that the world of epic and tragedy influenced the works of Thucydides. Despite Thucydides’ marked lack of belief in the intrusion of the divine, his history was suffused with a profoundly tragic world view. Additionally, Thucydides’ perception of the Athenian failure as multi-factorial undermines any easy pattern for tragedy just as it does any easy schema for political realism. The chapter argues that Thucydides is at his narrative best in recounting the bitter denouement of the failed Sicilian campaign. It details how Thucydides presented the war, the expedition to Sicily, and the subsequent fall of Athens.
The Epic: A Very Short Introduction
Authors: Welch Anthony
Published: November 2024

The Epic: A Very Short Introduction approaches the epic as a diverse global art form. Storytellers around the world have long told of heroes who are touched by greatness and win lasting fame. Surveying the Western epic canon alongside traditional heroic poetry from Asia, Africa, and the Near East, this VSI highlights shared themes and practices that unite the world’s epic literature. It describes the important roles that epic poets and performers serve for their societies, and explores how their stories portray heroism, warfare, family ties, nature and the supernatural, and the trauma of death. It also considers how the traditional epic has evolved to meet the challenges of our modern world. Analysing a wide range of epic narratives from the Bronze Age to the present day, it explains why this ancient form of artistic expression continues to fascinate and inspire us.
Factors influencing clinically trained pharmacists to pursue management roles: A modified Delphi survey
Authors: Lattos Anna K , Neidecker Marjorie V , Worley Marcia M , Kelley Lindsey R , Amerine Lindsey B , Kennerly-Shah Julie M
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to establish consensus among a sample of pharmacist clinicians on factors that would make them more or less likely to transition from a position primarily in direct patient care to a management position that included direct reports.

Methods

A 3-round modified Delphi survey was conducted. Pharmacists were selected as panelists to gain further information on the transition from a clinician to a managerial role. Study investigators utilized their professional network of pharmacy leaders nationwide who may have had staff who met the inclusion criteria. Participating pharmacy leaders emailed staff an interest survey, and participant email addresses were collected. During the round 1 survey, 2 open-ended questions were used to identify both positive and negative factors influencing pursuit of a managerial roles and responses were analyzed for factor development. In round 2, factors that met or exceeded a predetermined consensus agreement threshold of 70% were included in the round 3 survey. In round 3, a 4-point Likert scale was utilized for respondents to indicate agreement with each factor remaining.

Results

For each consecutive round, the survey response rate was 63% (96/152), 83% (79/96), and 87% (69/79), respectively. A total of 595 factor terms submitted by panelists in round 1 were consolidated into 30 “more likely” and 27 “less likely” factors by round 3. In round 3, the 70% agreement threshold was met across all factors. One less likely factor regarding workload expectations reached 100% total agreement.

Conclusion

The survey results may assist pharmacy administrative leaders in optimizing transitions to managerial roles by considering clinician perspectives.
Greek or barbarian? Diogenes Laertius on the contested origin of philosophy
Authors: Abdavi Azar Kasra
Published: November 2024

Though largely a silent observer throughout his Vitae philosophorum, Diogenes Laertius comes to the fore in his proem to refute the popular belief in a barbarian origin of philosophy. This study examines his defence-cum-critique in detail and offers some reflections on its sources and intended audience. It will be argued that Diogenes employs four distinct and partly incompatible arguments to counter sentiments that ultimately can be traced back to the Old Academy and early Peripatos but by Diogenes’ time had gained widespread circulation among Stoics and Platonists as well as Jews and Christians. The analysis thus reshapes our perception of Diogenes by showing that he consciously positioned himself within a controversial discourse, not only by relating the views of others but by advancing his own convictions with novel arguments.
[Theocritus], Idyll 23: a stony aesthetic
Authors: Nelson Thomas J
Published: November 2024

The pseudo-Theocritean Idyll 23 is frequently criticized as a wretched and unattractive poem. In this article, I argue that such allegedly ‘unattractive’ qualities do not betray the shortcomings of its poet, but are rather part of a distinctive aesthetic strategy. The Idyll embraces the murky, the hard, and the stony to construct an alternative aesthetic mode opposed to the traditional ‘sweetness’ of Theocritean bucolic and to the slender ‘refinement’ of Callimachus and Posidippus. First, I explore the poem’s knowing engagement with epic, tragedy, and epigram to demonstrate its familiarity with the common aesthetic strategies of Hellenistic poetics, whose rules it can both follow and break. Second, I analyse its ‘stony aesthetic’: the poem is dominated by both the literal and figurative language of hardness through its stone-hearted eromenos and lithic landscape. I argue that this stony environment is pointedly set against the ‘sweetness’ of the Theocritean countryside. The poem’s urban landscape both reflects and embodies its distinctive aesthetic.
The text2term tool to map free-text descriptions of biomedical terms to ontologies
Authors: Gonçalves Rafael S , Payne Jason , Tan Amelia , Benitez Carmen , Haddock Jamie , Gentleman Robert
Published: November 2024

There is an ongoing need for scalable tools to aid researchers in both retrospective and prospective standardization of discrete entity types—such as disease names, cell types, or chemicals—that are used in metadata associated with biomedical data. When metadata are not well-structured or precise, the associated data are harder to find and are often burdensome to reuse, analyze, or integrate with other datasets due to the upfront curation effort required to make the data usable—typically through retrospective standardization and cleaning of the (meta)data. With the goal of facilitating the task of standardizing metadata—either in bulk or in a one-by-one fashion, e.g. to support autocompletion of biomedical entities in forms—we have developed an open-source tool called text2term that maps free-text descriptions of biomedical entities to controlled terms in ontologies. The tool is highly configurable and can be used in multiple ways that cater to different users and expertise levels—it is available on Python Package Index and can be used programmatically as any Python package; it can also be used via a command-line interface or via our hosted, graphical user interface–based web application or by deploying a local instance of our interactive application using Docker.

Database URL: https://pypi.org/project/text2term
Patch-based convolutional neural networks for automatic landmark detection of 3D facial images in clinical settings
Authors: Al-baker Bodore , Ayoub Ashraf , Ju Xiangyang , Mossey Peter
Published: November 2024

Background

The facial landmark annotation of 3D facial images is crucial in clinical orthodontics and orthognathic surgeries for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. While manual landmarking has traditionally been the gold standard, it is labour-intensive and prone to variability.

Objective

This study presents a framework for automated landmark detection in 3D facial images within a clinical context, using convolutional neural networks (CNNs), and it assesses its accuracy in comparison to that of ground-truth data.

Material and methods

Initially, an in-house dataset of 408 3D facial images, each annotated with 37 landmarks by an expert, was constructed. Subsequently, a 2.5D patch-based CNN architecture was trained using this dataset to detect the same set of landmarks automatically.

Results

The developed CNN model demonstrated high accuracy, with an overall mean localization error of 0.83 ± 0.49 mm. The majority of the landmarks had low localization errors, with 95% exhibiting a mean error of less than 1 mm across all axes. Moreover, the method achieved a high success detection rate, with 88% of detections having an error below 1.5 mm and 94% below 2 mm.

Conclusion

The automated method used in this study demonstrated accuracy comparable to that achieved with manual annotations within clinical settings. In addition, the proposed framework for automatic landmark localization exhibited improved accuracy over existing models in the literature. Despite these advancements, it is important to acknowledge the limitations of this research, such as that it was based on a single-centre study and a single annotator. Future work should address computational time challenges to achieve further enhancements. This approach has significant potential to improve the efficiency and accuracy of orthodontic and orthognathic procedures.
Effort–reward imbalance and burnout among German school leaders. Representative study findings and implications for an underserved occupational group
Authors: Groß Nele , Dadaczynski Kevin , Pietsch Marcus
Published: November 2024

This study examines the relationship between gratification crisis and burnout syndrome in German school leaders and explores how sociodemographic and school-level factors relate to burnout. Additionally, it investigates how these factors influence the likelihood of experiencing burnout and engagement based on sociodemographic and school characteristics. The research design focuses on the relationship between the effort–reward imbalance (ERI) model and latent profiles of the Maslach Burnout Inventory. Statistical analyses include group comparisons and logistic regression to examine the relationships between variables, such as ERI and sociodemographic and school-level characteristics. The ERI ratio significantly associated with burnout, indicating higher risk as the ratio rises. Sociodemographic and school-level factors showed significant variations by student numbers and school type. Regression models revealed a positive relationship between ERI and burnout, while age negatively correlated, suggesting lower burnout risk in older leaders. Logistic regression highlighted associations between age, gender, and engagement, with increasing age positively associated with engagement and lower ERI scores associated with higher engagement. The results of the study demonstrate a significant relationship between perceived reward crisis as measured by the ERI model and burnout syndrome among school leaders in Germany. School leaders who feel undervalued and overburdened are more susceptible to burnout. The reported ERI depends on specific contextual variables, including the type of school, the number of students, and the age of the school principal. It is important for schools and educational institutions to address the multiple factors that influence burnout and work engagement among school leaders.
Defining quality categories for evaluation of the doctor–patient relationship assessed through the patient–doctor relationship questionnaire (PDRQ-9)
Authors: Wollmann Lucas , Hauser Lisiane , van der Feltz-Cornelis Christina , Mengue Sotero Serrate , Roman Rudi , Rech Milena Rodrigues Agostinho , Harzheim Erno
Published: November 2024

Background

The quality of the doctor–patient relationship plays a crucial role in patients’ experiences with healthcare services, positively influencing clinical outcomes and satisfaction with care. The Patient–Doctor Relationship Questionnaire (PDRQ-9) is widely used to assess this relationship. However, there are no quality categories that can be derived from the instrument’s score to facilitate understanding and decision-making.

Objectives

This study aims to establish categories of the quality of the relationship based on the PDRQ-9 score.

Methods

A latent class analysis (LCA) was conducted using interviews with 6160 users of primary health care units throughout Brazil to define different homogeneous response profiles. The Youden index was used to determine the cut point between classes.

Results

LCA identified the presence of two response profiles, one associated with a high evaluation of the quality of the doctor–patient relationship and another associated with a moderate evaluation. The cut point between classes, established through the Youden index, was 3.5 (on a possible score range of 1–5) or 31 (on a possible score range of 9–45). The cut point demonstrated high accuracy (0.94), sensitivity (0.96), and specificity (0.98).

Conclusions

The categorization proposed in this study enhances the interpretability of PDRQ-9 results, providing a practical framework for assessing the quality of the doctor–patient relationship. By establishing actionable quality categories, this tool could support targeted interventions, such as performance feedback and training, aimed at fostering empathy, communication, and trust in healthcare settings.