bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consumer Confidence Index in Coronavirus Disease (Covid-19) Era
Authors: Ilmiah Dunyati , Wonoseto Muhammad Galih
Published: July 2021

The consumer confidence index is an economic indicator designed to measure consumer confidence or doubt about the economic conditions of a country. The consumer confidence index can have an impact on the level of consumer interest in shopping so that it affects business activities, industry, and has a direct impact on the rate of econom ic growth. The condition of the consumer confidence index continues to improve, even though it is still during the Covid-19 pandemic and is still in the pessimistic zone, namely the index is below 100, the August 2020 consumer confidence index is 86.9 that is higher than in July 2020 of 86.2. This study uses trend analysis to estimate or forecast the future, and data obtained from the Bank Indonesia Consumer Survey. The results of this study show that the improvement in consumer confidence is drive by consumer perceptions of current economic conditions, namely increased income, job availability, and purchasing of goods.
The Potential of Community-Based Nomadic Tourism Development: Insight from Three Case Study in Yogyakarta
Authors: Lindawati Lisa , Damayanti Acniah , Putri Dinda Hermiranti
Published: July 2021

Since February 2015, the government has provided tourism as a leading sector in development. It is, however, that this premise needs to be reviewed. As one of the popular destinations in Indonesia, after Bali, Yogyakarta is still dealing with acute poverty problems with an 11,7% poverty rate and disparity index of 0,423 (Gini ratio) by March 2019. This situation showed that tourism has not contributed to its vital role in empowering the community. The primary problem is concerning the lack of participation based-community in developing and managing tourism. Regarding that problem, community-based tourism is present as an alternative tourism model because it is concerned with optimizing local potentiality and local community empowerment. Meanwhile, some aspects, including access, amenities, and attractions, are essential in tourism development. In line with issues, the acceleration of digital technology has encouraged nomad workers and experience-based tourism attraction—both elements then actualized in nomadic tourism. According to the case study method, this research has investigated the potentiality of the nomadic tourism model in the Special Region of Yogyakarta: Bukit Kosakora (Kosakara Hill) in Gunung Kidul, Taman Bambu Air (Water Bamboo Park) in Sermo Reservoir, Kulonprogo, and Bukit Lintang Sewu (Thousand Stars Hill) in the Mangunan, Bantul, Yogyakarta. The three places are potentially pioneers of nomadic tourism in Yogyakarta. The research results highlight that all of these places have amenities, attraction, and access as opportunities to be nomadic tourism. However, they have implemented the basic principles of community-based tourism, but the realization is not yet fully optimal because of the matter in the institutional context.
On unique determination of an unknown spatial load in damped Euler–Bernoulli beam equation from final time output
Authors: Dileep Anjuna , Hasanov Alemdar , Sakthivel Kumarasamy , Sebu Cristiana
Published: July 2021

In this paper, we discuss the role of the damping term

μ
⁢

u
t

{\mu u_{t}}

in unique determination of unknown spatial load

F
⁢

(
x
)

{F(x)}

in a damped Euler–Bernoulli beam equation

u

t
⁢
t

+

μ
⁢

u
t

+

(

r
⁢

(
x
)

⁢

u

x
⁢
x

)

x
⁢
x

=

F
⁢

(
x
)

⁢
G
⁢

(
t
)

{u_{tt}+\mu u_{t}+(r(x)u_{xx})_{xx}=F(x)G(t)}

from the measured final time displacement

u
T

⁢

(
x
)

:=

u
⁢

(
x
,
T
)

{u_{T}(x):=u(x,T)}

or velocity

ν
T

⁢

(
x
)

:=

u
t

⁢

(
x
,
T
)

{\nu_{T}(x):=u_{t}(x,T)}

. In
[A. Hasanov Hasanoğlu and V. G. Romanov,
Introduction to Inverse Problems for Differential Equations,
Springer, Cham, 2017]
it was shown that the unique determination of the spatial load

F
⁢

(
x
)

{F(x)}

in the undamped wave equation

u

t
⁢
t

-

(

k
⁢

(
x
)

⁢

u
x

)

x

=

F
⁢

(
x
)

⁢
G
⁢

(
t
)

{u_{tt}-(k(x)u_{x})_{x}=F(x)G(t)}

from final data (displacement or velocity) is not possible. This result is also valid for the undamped beam equation

u

t
⁢
t

+

(

r
⁢

(
x
)

⁢

u

x
⁢
x

)

x
⁢
x

=

F
⁢

(
x
)

⁢
G
⁢

(
t
)

{u_{tt}+(r(x)u_{xx})_{xx}=F(x)G(t)}

. We show that in the presence of the damping term, the spatial load can be uniquely determined from the final time output under some acceptable conditions with respect to the final time

T
>
0

{T>0}

and the damping coefficient

μ
>
0

{\mu>0}

. The cases of pure spatial load

G
⁢

(
t
)

≡
1

{G(t)\equiv 1}

, and the exponentially decaying load

G
⁢

(
t
)

=

e

-

η
⁢
t

{G(t)=e^{-\eta t}}

are analyzed separately, leading also to sufficient conditions for the uniqueness of the inverse problem solution. The results presented in this paper clearly demonstrate the key role of the damping term in the unique determination of the unknown spatial load

F
⁢

(
x
)

{F(x)}

in the damped Euler–Bernoulli beam equation.
Research frontiers of chemical detection and measurements
Authors: Gu Zhi-Yuan , Yang Shi-Shu , Xu Ming , Zhang Xiang-Da , Fan Chunhai , Li Jinghong
Published: July 2021

Over the past decade, the global research agenda focused on finding paths to the future development of chemistry. Chemical detection and measurement is an important and fundamental discipline of chemistry and it keeps playing a significant role in chemical research in the next 10–15 years. The goal of chemical detection is to overcome the state-of-art temporospatial resolution limit. Meanwhile, the application of modern chemical technology to serve human health is also highly concerned. We have summarized 10 aspects related to the field, including complex samples analysis, biomacromolecule structure and function, single-entity analysis, large-scale scientific instrument, rapid chemical and electron transfer processes, big data and artificial intelligence, bioimaging, in vivo real-time detection, biomolecule recognition and disease therapy, and public health screening. In this review, we outlined the history and the frontiers of chemical detection and measurements in enhancing the development of chemical sciences. Moreover, we also focused on the major challenges that should be solved in the future in which researchers should develop new techniques and analytical methods to drastically accelerate chemical sciences.
Influence of Minimalist Footwear on Running Performance and Injury
Authors: Andreyo Evan , Unverzagt Casey , Schoenfeld Brad J.
Published: July 2021

Runners and clinicians have long sought to enhance distance running performance and reduce the occurrence of running-related injuries. Footwear selection often comes to the forefront in such pursuits, yet remains a common source of controversy in the literature and practice. In particular, the utilization of minimalist footwear has fluctuated in popularity over the last several decades, with some proponents suggesting that it can promote improvements in running economy and reduce injury rates. However, a closer look at the literature shows anything but straightforward and consistent recommendations. The purpose of this article is to outline the effects of minimalist footwear on running performance and injury, with a focus on its associated impact on running mechanics. The authors also aim to identify who may be the ideal client to transition to minimalist running and how to minimize the risk of injury during the transition.
The Tira of Don Martín
Authors: Radlo-Dzur Alanna S. , Cooley Mackenzie , Kaplan Emily , Bright Leah , Webb E. Keats , Haude Mary Elizabeth , Villafana Tana , Satorius Amanda K.
Published: July 2021

This article follows the history of the Tira of don Martín, also known as the Codex Saville, from its creation to its preservation in the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian. A document concerning migration, altepetl (polity) foundation, and rulership, it provided a living record of Nahua chronology from 1402 to 1545, through the arrival of Europeans on horseback, the conquest of Tenochtitlan in 1521, and the foundation of a local Christian church. Little studied since the 1920s when acquired by the Museum of the American Indian/Heye Foundation, it is a completely Nahua document with older pictographic text as well as Nahuatl written in Latin characters. The very form of the tira suggests continuity rather than rupture in the course of European colonization and evangelization. New approaches to Mesoamerican history and materiality at the conquest’s quincentenary mean the time is ripe for a new touchstone analysis of this document that emphasizes specificity, locality, and continuity rather than rupture driven by European invasion. This article integrates diagnostic imaging, scientific and ethnohistorical analyses, and provenance research with a renewed focus on the Nahuatl language and pictographic communication.
REPRODUCTIVE TOXICOLOGY: Environmental exposures, fetal testis development and function: phthalates and beyond
Authors: Li Hui , Spade Daniel J
Published: July 2021

Fetal development of the mammalian testis relies on a series of interrelated cellular processes: commitment of somatic progenitor cells to Sertoli and Leydig cell fate, migration of endothelial cells and Sertoli cells, differentiation of germ cells, deposition of the basement membrane, and establishment of cell–cell contacts, including Sertoli–Sertoli and Sertoli–germ cell contacts. These processes are orchestrated by intracellular, endocrine, and paracrine signaling processes. Because of this complexity, testis development can be disrupted by a variety of environmental toxicants. The toxicity of phthalic acid esters (phthalates) on the fetal testis has been the subject of extensive research for two decades, and phthalates have become an archetypal fetal testis toxicant. Phthalates disrupt the seminiferous cord formation and maturation, Sertoli cell function, biosynthesis of testosterone in Leydig cells, and impair germ cell survival and development, producing characteristic multinucleated germ cells. However, the mechanisms responsible for these effects are not fully understood. This review describes current knowledge of the adverse effects of phthalates on the fetal testis and their associated windows of sensitivity, and compares and contrasts the mechanisms by which toxicants of current interest, bisphenol A and its replacements, analgesics, and perfluorinated alkyl substances, alter testicular developmental processes. Working toward a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms responsible for phthalate toxicity will be critical for understanding the long-term impacts of environmental chemicals and pharmaceuticals on human reproductive health.
Placental adaptation to maternal malnutrition
Authors: Satterfield M Carey , Edwards Ashley K , Bazer Fuller W , Dunlap Kathrin A , Steinhauser Chelsie B , Wu Guoyao
Published: July 2021

Maternal malnutrition gives rise to both short- and long-term consequences for the survival and health of the offspring. As the intermediary between mother and fetus, the placenta has the potential to interpret environmental signals, such as nutrient availability, and adapt to support fetal growth and development. While this potential is present, it is clear that at times placental adaptation fails to occur resulting in poor pregnancy outcomes. This review will focus on placental responses to maternal undernutrition related to changes in placental vascularization and hemodynamics and placental nutrient transport systems across species. While much of the available literature describes placental responses that result in poor fetal outcomes, novel models have been developed to utilize the inherent variation in fetal weight when dams are nutrient restricted to identify placental adaptations that result in normal-weight offspring. Detailed analyses of the spectrum of placental responses to maternal malnutrition point to alternations in placental histoarchitectural and vascular development, amino acid and lipid transport mechanisms, and modulation of immune-related factors. Dietary supplementation with selected nutrients, such as arginine, has the potential to improve placental growth and function through a variety of mechanisms including stimulating cell proliferation, protein synthesis, angiogenesis, vasodilation, and gene regulation. Improved understanding of placental responses to environmental cues is necessary to develop diagnostic and intervention strategies to improve pregnancy outcomes.
Memoria y Hip Hop, Una metáfora de origen
Authors: Pérez Romero José Luis
Published: July 2021

El presente artículo desarrolla una reflexión sobre el Hip Hop colombiano, latinoamericano e  iberoamericano,  tomando como referente inicial de análisis la propuesta de Historia Cultural de Peter Burke,  en el marco del proceso de formación del investigador en el Doctorado en Estudios Sociales de la  Universidad  Distrital en la Línea de Memoria, Experiencia y Creencia. Propone un recorrido por los  acontecimientos iniciales en el surgimiento del Hip Hop y su posterior viaje de Estados Unidos a otras  latitudes; desde allí, plantea unas metáforas de origen que parten de conceptos como el viaje, los viajeros, la  violencia, el pandillismo, la industria musical, entre otros. Al final, plantea unas posibilidades de análisis que  aportan a la discusión académica del Hip Hop, en cuanto a la importancia de la memoria en los estudios de  sobre música.
Imaginarios sociales y conflictos en las expresiones de la música vallenata y champeta en el caribe colombiano
Authors: Cano Yepez Marlys
Published: July 2021

Este artículo de reflexión, resultante de un proyecto de investigación adscrito a la Corporación Universitaria Rafael Núñez, permitió desde un horizonte sociológico, un análisis del enfoque discursivo que enmarca el nacimiento y desarrollo de la música champeta y vallenato en las poblaciones donde éstos son representativos (Las ciudades de Cartagena y Valledupar respectivamente). Permitió entender la relación existente entre las expresiones musicales de estos géneros, teniendo en cuenta tanto los imaginarios sociales asociados a cada uno, como la comprensión de los distintos factores sociales asociados a las representaciones de estos.
Aging resistance and photocatalytic activity of a wood surface coated with a Zr4+-doped SiO2/TiO2 film
Authors: Liu Zhigao , Xuan Luning , Fu Yunlin
Published: July 2021

A Zr4+-doped SiO2/TiO2 composite film (Zr4+-doped STCF) was prepared on a wood surface via a sol-gel method to improve its photocatalytic activity and aging resistance. The physicochemical characteristics of the composite film were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and low-temperature N2 sorption methods. The photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange and its aging resistance under ultraviolet light were tested. The results showed that the composite film had an anatase TiO2 crystal form, and the addition of Zr4+ to the composite film noticeably improved photocatalytic activity and aging resistance. The highest degradation percentage occurred at 0.5 wt% Zr4+ (59.2%) when the Zr4+ ion doping amount was 2.5 wt%, and the aging resistance of the composite film also peaked under these conditions. The wood surface coated with Zr4+-doped STCF exhibited strong aging resistance and photocatalytic activity, which protected the surface from discoloration and decomposition. As it degraded organic pollutants, the modified wood surface had a good self-cleaning function.
Preparation of lotus nanofibers-alginate porous membranes for biomedical applications
Authors: Zhang Jinfeng , Han Guangting , Zhang Yuanming , Gong Ying , Jiang Wei
Published: July 2021

Tissue and organ failure or loss is a major problem for human health, and the construction of tissue engineering porous scaffold materials is a core step in the repair of damaged tissue and organs. Fibers from the lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) plant can be a source of superfine fibers. Such fibers have excellent biocompatibility, and they are easy to convert into nanofibers that could be applied for tissue engineering. Lotus fibers were carboxyl-modified with the TEMPO/NaClO/NaBr system, and lotus nanofibers were prepared. The effect of oxidation conditions on their morphologies and degrees of oxidation were investigated. The diameters of the lotus nanofibers were about 15 nm. Additionally, the degrees of oxidation of lotus nanofibers increased with an increase of oxidation time. Moreover, the oxidized sodium alginate membranes crosslinked with carboxymethyl chitosan degraded quickly, with the degradation rates increased by 82.1% or 100.0% during a 14-day period. By increasing the dosage of carboxymethyl chitosan, the pH values tend to rise. In comparison, the degradation rates of the lotus nanofibers/alginate porous membranes crosslinked with carboxymethyl chitosan exhibited better performance in terms of microstructure, porosity, water absorption, mechanical properties (0.36 MPa /7.7%), and in vitro degradation (59.2%).
Correlation and path analysis of interaction between green pea yield and its components with crop management
Authors: Shaban N.
Published: July 2021

Determinations of interaction between yield its components and foliar mixed application of Lactofol® with insecticides and herbicides. The path-coefficient analysis is very important statistical technique that can be used to quantify the interrelationship of different yield components. It was applied to study the interaction of applied agronomic activities on productivity of mid-early Bulgarian garden peas Pisum sativum cv. Promethei seeking to minimize pesticide use and to maintain sustainable quality and quantity of yield, and to prevent underground water pollution caused by using Dual 930EK/930g/l-s (metachloras) minimized herbicide doses from vegetative herbicide Basagran-200g/l (Bentazon) and Fusillade-200g/l (Fluasifop-P-Butil). Data was collected from long years trials on plants treated with different combinations of foliar suspension fertilizer Lactofol® with insecticides and herbicides. Results showed that grain yield (0.997), dry matter of the grain (0.996), Chlorophyll "a" (0.993), Zn (0.992), N (0.991), grain/whole pod ratio (0.984), total nitrogen (0.982), K (0.975), weight of 50 grains (0.973) fresh weight of 50 beans (0.962), fertile pollen (0.961), plant density/ m2 (0,873), the length of beans (0.871), sterile pollen (0.837) had positive impact on yield. Dry matter, grain yield, dry matter of grains, chla, N, weight of 50 pods, fertile pollen, and plant density/ m2 showed positive direct and indirect effects on yield. Other factors such as sugars (0.797), chlorophyll “b” (0.739), and starch (0.620) had an indirect effect on total yield. Grain yield should be given prior attention in field pea improvement programmers due to its major influence on yield. This research gave valuable information about which steps of agro techniques needs more attention to enhance best quality and quantity of sustainable yield.
First record of Strix huhula Daudin, 1800 (Strigiformes, Strigidae), Black-banded Owl, from the savanna–dry forest ecotone in northeastern Brazil
Authors: Soares Leonardo Moura dos Santos , Souto Wedson Medeiros Silva , Guzzi Anderson , Silva André Bastos da
Published: July 2021

Strix huhula Daudin, 1800 is widely distributed species of owl in the Neotropical region. However, this species is considered rare in nature due to its dependence on forested habitat and low adaptive capacity to survive in anthropogenic environments. There are scattered records throughout Brazil. Here, we provide the first record of S. huhula in a savanna–dry forest ecotone in Piauí state. This expands the geographic distribution of S. huhula to northeastern Brazil.
Three-Dimensional (3D) Facially Driven Workflow for Anterior Ridge Defect Evaluation: A Treatment Concept
Authors: Parize Hian , Coachman Christian , Salama Maurice , Sesma Newton , Bohner Lauren
Published: July 2021

The esthetic rehabilitation of anterior ridge defects and achieving patient satisfaction have become major clinical challenges for dentists and technicians. Poor diagnosis and treatment planning are frequently associated with multiple surgical procedures that fail to meet patient expectations. The loss of hard and soft tissues in anterior ridges results in an esthetically compromised zone that affects the rehabilitation prognosis. The presence of interdental papilla and papillary configuration play a decisive role in patient satisfaction. A treatment plan considering esthetic parameters, prosthetic needs, and morphological defects must be used to improve treatment outcomes. Therefore, this study aims to propose a treatment concept for anterior ridge defects that focuses on digital evaluation systems and is guided by an ideal facially driven smile design project. In addition, the relevance of the papilla for esthetic outcomes and treatment alternatives for anterior ridge defects are also addressed.
REVIEW ON VULNERABILITIES AND CHALLENGES ON IOT SECURITY FRAMEWORKS IN DIVERSIFIED FIELDS OF APPLICATIONS
Authors: Mitra Poojarini , Bhattacharjee Kaustuv , Das Anirban , Das Susmita , Ghosh Papiya , Gorai Priya , Maity Sayani
Published: July 2021

Abstract - Internet of Things (loT) is emerging as a revolutionary technology since the last double decade. Internet of things has changed many aspects of the human. loT has changed living styles and health care with the help of intelligent health care technologies like
wearable devices. loT makes use of lightweight communication with the motive of the reduction of extra overhead generated in regular internet communication. The number of multiple devices are connected and the amount of data interchanged between them is surprising and hence becoming a goal
for attack and misuse of information. Other than the obvious vulnerability of wireless connections, security in loT is difficult to earn because of the universal way of data collection, complication of cryptographic solutions for the resource-tractable equipment, characteristics of the cyber
world with the physical world, complex wideness topologies and insufficient organizational capabilities. The Internet of Things (loT) devices are becoming more popular, vulnerability counteragents are inadequate and many things have occurred. It is because there is inadequate preservation
against vulnerabilities specific to loT equipment.
Automated Breast Cancer Diagnosis Based on Machine Learning Algorithm
Authors: Ghosh Sayani , Dey Sayantan , Chatterjee Souvik
Published: July 2021

Abstract– Breast Cancer classification is becoming more important with the increasing demand of automated applications especially interactive applications. It can be used to improve the performance of classifiers like Logistic Regression, Decision Tree, Random Forest, SVC etc. This study is based on learning genetic patterns of patients with breast tumors and machine learning algorithms that aim to demonstrate a system to accurately differentiate between benign and malignant breast tumors. The aim of this study was to optimize different algorithm. In this context, we applied the genetic programming technique to select the best features and perfect parameter values of the machine learning classifiers. The performance of the proposed method was based on accuracy, precision and the roc curves. The present report prepared by us proves that genetic programming can automatically find the best model by combining feature preprocessing methods and classifier algorithms by reducing False Positive rate. In this paper, there were two challenges to automate the breast cancer diagnosis: (i) determining which model best classifies the data and (ii) how to automatically design and adjust the parameters of the machine learning model. We have summarized the experimental studies and the obtained results, and lastly presented the main conclusion.
ANALYSIS ON THE STATUS OF RENT OF HOUSING INDUSTRY
Authors: Hazra Madhulekha , Bhattacharya Bikram , Sengupta Suryasish , Mandal Rajesh , Mitra Poojarini , Bhattacharjee Kaustuv , Das Anirban
Published: July 2021

Abstract - Machine learning has been playing an active role in the past few years in several applications like image detection, spam reorganization, recommending products and in medical fields. Present machine learning algorithm helps us in enhancing security alerts, ensuring
public safety and improve medical enhancements. Determining the sale price of the house is very important nowadays as the price of the land and price of the house increases every year. So our future generation needs a simple technique to predict the house price in future. The price of house
helps the buyer to know the cost price of the house and also the right time to buy it. The right price of the house helps the customer to elect the house and go for the bidding of that house. There are several factors that affect the price of the house such as the physical condition, location,
landmark etc. Our result exhibit that our approach to the issue needs to be successful, and can process predictions that would be comparative with other house rent prediction models. This paper uses linear regression technique to predict the house price.
On the dynamic response of flexible dual-row retaining walls in dry sand
Authors: Madabhushi Srikanth S. C. , Haigh Stuart K.
Published: July 2021

Dual-row retaining walls can be utilised to form embankment structures for protection against tsunamis or as port structures. The dynamic response of these walls involves a complex interaction between the soil and structural elements which is not well understood. In this paper, for the first time a combination of centrifuge and finite-element modelling is used to better understand the mechanical response of the combined wall–soil system. The measured variation of the horizontal stresses leads to bending moment distributions featuring large, singly outward bending or double curvature with significant inward bending of the wall near the ground level. The numerical analyses are used to understand the stress state and highlight the dynamic variations of the vertical effective stress that drive this previously unexplained behaviour. The shear stresses that can develop at the wall–soil interface govern the mechanism by which the vertical effective stresses can vary. Further consideration of the dynamic soil stress state suggests a purer interpretation of the limiting loads in soil–structure interaction problems relative to the traditionally defined dynamic earth pressure coefficients. Combining the altered vertical soil stresses with earth pressure coefficients depending only on the soil friction angle adequately bounds the horizontal stresses that develop in the soil.
Effect of glyphosate application time on yield parameters of South African glyphosate-resistant maize cultivars
Authors: Craven Maryke , Mokoena Patrick T. , Morey Liesl , Saayman-Du Toit Aletta E.J.
Published: July 2021

Glyphosate is the most used herbicide in South Africa. Due to observations by some South African maize producers that the application of glyphosate to glyphosate-resistant (GR) maize cultivars resulted in reduced yield, we conducted an in-depth study under local conditions. Through field trials, over two seasons (2017/2018 and 2018/2019), we investigated whether the application time of glyphosate would impact maize yields negatively. Various yield parameters were measured subsequent to glyphosate application to the local GR maize cultivars DKC74-74BR, DKC78-79BR, KKS4581, KKS8408, BG5785BR, PAN6R-710BR, P1814R and P2880WBR. Four glyphosate products were included (Roundup PowerMax®; Slash Plus 540 SL; TouchdownForte® and MambaTM DMA 480 SL), resulting in 32 cultivar x glyphosate product combinations. Each product was applied at V4, V4+V6, V6 and V8 growth stages together with an untreated control. Yield parameters measured (ears per plant, rows per ear, kernels per row, thousand kernel mass and yield) were expressed as a percentage of the control. The trials were planted as randomised complete block designs with three replicates. Limited response was observed with all the parameters investigated, with a significant negative yield response, greater than the untreated control, observed in only 3.1% of the cultivar x glyphosate product combinations evaluated. No clear trends or discernible and consistent impacts on yield and yield parameters could be established based on the application time of glyphosate (within label recommendations) across seasons. The findings contribute significantly to the knowledge base and current understanding of the international community and local producers alike regarding the effective use of glyphosate and generic variations thereof in crops of diverse genetic backgrounds.Significance:

Limited response in the yield parameters evaluated were obtained in response to the application time (V4, V4+V6, V6 and V8) of the four glyphosate products on eight GR maize cultivars tested (p=0.1).
Inconsistent patterns or trends were detected in cases where significance was obtained, implying that it would not be possible to draw accurate conclusions or formulate recommendations.
Application time of glyphosate did not result in a significant reduction in yield compared to the untreated control, in the majority of the cultivar x glyphosate product combinations investigated, confirming that glyphosate application conducted within label specifications would not reduce yield, irrespective of the glyphosate product or genetic background of maize.
A simple approach for monitoring vegetation change using time series remote sensing analysis: A case study from the Thathe Vondo Area in Limpopo Province, South Africa
Authors: Muavhi Nndanduleni
Published: July 2021

This study presents a simple approach of spatiotemporal change detection of vegetation cover based on analysis of time series remotely sensed images. The study was carried out at Thathe Vondo Area, which is characterised by episodic variation of vegetation gain and loss. This variation is attributable to timber and tea plantations and their production cycles, which periodically result in either vegetation gain or loss. The approach presented here was implemented on two ASTER images acquired in 2007 and 2017. It involved the combined use of band combination, unsupervised image classification and Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) techniques. True colour composite (TCC) images for 2007 and 2017 were created from combination of bands 1, 2 and 3 in red, blue and green, respectively. The difference image of the TCC images was then generated to show the inconsistencies of vegetation cover between 2007 and 2017. For analytical simplicity and interpretability, the difference image was subjected to ISODATA unsupervised classification, which clustered pixels in the difference image into eight classes. Two ISODATA derived classes were interpreted as vegetation gain and one as vegetation loss. These classes were confirmed as regions of vegetation gain and loss by NDVI values of 2007 and 2017. In addition, the polygons of vegetation gain and loss regions were created and superimposed over the TCC images to further demonstrate the spatiotemporal vegetation change in the area. The vegetation change statistics show vegetation gain and loss of 10.62% and 2.03%, respectively, implying a vegetation gain of 8.59% over the selected decade.Significance:

Vegetation change detection is essential in environmental monitoring and management of an area. This study presents a simple approach for assessing vegetation change over time. The approach involveschange detection through the difference of spectral values of vegetation pixels of time series remotelysensed images.
ANTI-EROSION CAPACITY OF A GRANULAR FILTER SUBJECTED TO A PERIODICALLY VARIABLE HYDRAULIC GRADIENT
Authors: Liang Yue , Zhang Hongjie , Shi Xixi , Ma Chen , Zhang Bin , Xia Rifeng , Dai Lei
Published: July 2021

The instability of a filter system is a significant cause of seepage failure in embankment projects. The filter system in the earth-rock embankment is mainly composed of graded cohesionless soil. To uncover the performance of the granular filter in resisting the internal erosion, a set of experiments was carried out with an improved experimental apparatus, considering different hydraulic loading scenarios. The movement of graded cohesionless soil, the seepage velocity and the hydraulic gradient were monitored in the experiments. It was found that during the process of increasing the hydraulic gradient, the failure of the granular filter mainly experienced three stages: the first one was the dynamic equilibrium stage; the second was the critical start stage; and the third was the failure stage, in which a sudden change in the seepage velocity was the precursor of seepage failure. The critical hydraulic gradient and destructive hydraulic gradient decreased with the water level amplitude. Moreover, the experiments revealed that the loading modes of the hydraulic gradient significantly influenced the anti-erosion capacity of the granular filter. Compared with the stepwise loading mode, the cyclic reciprocating loading mode greatly weakened the anti-erosion capacity of the granular filter under the same water level amplitude. The destructive hydraulic gradient of the latter was only 71.8 % of the former under a higher water level amplitude, indicating that the corresponding measures should be considered to avoid the occurrence of a periodically variable hydraulic gradient.
EFFECTS OF AIR-COOLING-HOLE GEOMETRIES ON A LOW-PRESSURE DIE-CASTING PROCESS
Authors: Pehlivanoglu Ugur , Yagci Tugce , Culha Osman
Published: July 2021

A significant precondition for the production of high-quality castings is keeping an optimum temperature of the respective parts of the die cavity surface. This temperature depends on the temperature of the material, the quantity of metal, the method of cooling the casting die, the thermal conductivity of the die material, and the time during which the casting remains in the die. In addition, the cooling characteristics of alloy steel dies, used in the production of aluminum-alloy wheels with the low pressure die casting (LPDC) method, have critical effects on the mechanical and metallurgical properties of the product. Ducted air coolers are widely used for the cooling of these alloy steel dies. However, the geometrical designs of the air-cooling holes are limited. In this study, we define the effects of the geometry of the cooling holes on the cooling power of the die, the efficiency of the air consumption with the Full Factorial Experimental Design method and to determine the optimum values for LPDC. Pilot production has been carried out on an industrial scale to verify the data obtained by experimental design. The experimental and real data were compared based on the values of the yield strength and the secondary dendrite arm spacing in the microstructure.
Демографическая модернизация и возраст вступления в первый брак у народов Северного Кавказа
Authors: Казенин Константин Игоревич , Сороко Евгений Львович
Published: July 2021

Цель статьи – исследование изменений возрастных характеристик брачности у народов ряда регионов Северного Кавказа во второй половине ХХ – начале ХХI века. Эта динамика исследуется в аспекте межэтнических различий. Делается попытка оценить уровень межэтнических различий на разных этапах модернизационных изменений, которые происходили в местных социумах Северного Кавказа в 1960-2000-е годы и были связаны в первую очередь с массовой миграцией коренных народов в города. Для этого на основе микропереписи 1994 г. для женских и мужских когорт 1939-48, 1949-58 и 1959-68 годов рождения 11 северокавказских народов сопоставляются доли вступивших в первый брак к разным возрастам. Отмечается, что к возрастам, достигнутым двумя или тремя из этих когорт на момент микропереписи, в разных когортах наблюдались в целом единообразные межэтнические контрасты по этому параметру. Далее для тех же народов рассматриваются доли вступивших в брак в разных возрастных группах по Всероссийской переписи населения 2010 г. Межэтнические различия, зафиксированные для разных возрастных групп на момент переписи, в основном совпадают с различиями, отраженными микропереписью для указанных когорт. При этом сопоставление расчетных возрастов вступления в брак (SMAM) для разных народов на момент микропереписи 1994 г. и переписи 2010 г. показывает, что по крайней мере между этими опросами у большинства этносов происходил сдвиг вступления женщин и мужчин в первый брак к более старшим возрастам. Делается вывод, что из двух процессов, стандартно рассматриваемых как элементы демографической модернизации (увеличение возраста вступления в первый брак и уменьшение межэтнических различий по этому возрасту), на Северном Кавказе в изучаемый период активно шел только первый. С учетом данных полевых исследований предлагаются объяснения обнаруженной стабильности межэтнических различий по возрасту вступления в брак.
Total nucleic acids extraction, purification and cDNA synthesis from soil v1
Authors: Angel Roey
Published: July 2021

Extraction of DNA, and especially RNA from soils, can be challenging due to the presence of organic impurities, which can inhibit downstream enzymatic reactions and the fact that many soil microorganisms are dormant or nearly inactive and hence hard to lyse. The following collection of protocols describe a robust and flexible pipeline for extracting high amounts of pure DNA and RNA from nearly all types of soils. The methods have been successfully tested for mineral and highly organic soils and soils with very low biomass.
Morphological Evolution of the Port‐City Interface of Algiers (16th Century to the Present)
Authors: Aouissi Khalil Bachir , Madani Said , Baptist Vincent
Published: July 2021

This article traces the centuries-long morphological development of Algiers’ port-city interface across four historically relevant time periods that together span from the dawn of the 16th century up until today. Through a diachronic and geo-historical approach, we identify and analyse the origins of Algiers’ persistent port-city divide. In doing so, the notion of the interface is interpreted as a spatial threshold between city and port, which nevertheless supports the material flows of both entities. As a multi-purpose area, the interface holds the potential to weave the disparate entities of a port city back together. To further complement this conceptual angle, we provide investigations of porosity that determine the differing degrees of connectivity between the city and port of Algiers. This is combined with a spatial-functional analysis of Algiers’ current port-city interface, which is ultimately characterised as a non-homogeneous entity composed of four distinct sequences. These results contribute to a better orientation of imminent plans for waterfront revitalisations in Algiers. Whereas the interface was long considered as some kind of no man’s land in the past, port and municipal authorities nowadays aim to turn the interface into a tool of reconciliation, and can do so by acting upon its potential porosity. Finally, this article’s critical examination of the previously neglected case of Algiers can and should also be considered as an applicable model for the continuing study of southern Mediterranean and African port metropolises in general, which share a particular evolution in the relations between city and port.
Shanghai’s Regenerated Industrial Waterfronts: Urban Lab for Sustainability Transitions?
Authors: Den Hartog Harry
Published: July 2021

In China, Shanghai often serves as a place to introduce and try out new ideas. This is certainly the case with experimental urban planning and design solutions and sustainability transitions. This article identifies and evaluates the role of pilot projects and demonstration zones along the Huangpu River. These clusters and zones are supposed to guide the urban regeneration of the former industrial waterfronts and to accelerate innovative development in Shanghai and the wider Yangtze Delta Region. The Huangpu River as a whole is considered an urban lab and a showcase of ecological civilisation policies, with a strong ‘people oriented’ focus on improving the overall quality and attractiveness of urban life. Following three decades of rapid urban expansion, Shanghai’s urban development model is shifting toward one that emphasizes densification and the reuse of existing elements. The motto of Shanghai’s latest master plan is “Striving for an Excellent Global City.” One of the pathways to realize this expectation is the creation of thematic clusters for creative industries, financial institutes, AI, and technology, media and telecommunication industries. These clusters are high-density investment projects meant to support and accelerate the transformation of Shanghai into a service economy. There are important similarities between these projects in Shanghai and the role of urban labs in theories of sustainability transitions. Drawing on these theories and those of ecological civilization, this article examines how these so-called ‘experimental’ urban megaprojects along the river contribute to Shanghai’s effort to take the lead in developing sustainable urban transitions.
Port City Porosity: Boundaries, Flows, and Territories
Authors: Hein Carola
Published: July 2021

The introduction to this thematic issue on port city porosity sets the stage for the study of port city territories as a particular type of space, located at the edge of land and sea, built, often over centuries, to facilitate the transfer of goods, people, and ideas. It argues that the concept of porosity can help conceptualize the ways in which the spaces and institutions of ports, cities, and neighboring areas intersect. It expands on the well‐established notion of the interface and more recent reflections on the port city threshold by arguing for a conceptualization of the port cityscape as a continuous network of port‐related spaces and practices. The introduction places this reflection in time, exploring the ways in which boundaries have shifted and opened up; it also provides a brief overview of the 14 contributions to the thematic issue. The contributions are organized in three groups: (1) exploring long‐term approaches to porosity in port city territories; (2) mapping and conceptualizing port city porosity on the sea side and on the land side; and (3) measuring, designing, and rethinking porosity in port city territories. The thematic issue opens questions for further research such as: Does the degree of porosity between port and city areas and the presence of maritime pockets in the city and the territory lead to greater resilience of port city activities? Does the existence of porous borders between port and city allow for easier transitions?
GEMOLOGICAL LAW OF UKRAINE: FORMATION PROBLEMS AND DEVELOPMENT PROSPECTS
Authors: Kirin R. , Baranov P. , Koziakov I.
Published: July 2021

The article analyzes the scientific and legislative provisions connected with the specifity of the legal regulation of relations in the field of gemological activity and gemological objects. The current state of sources of gemological law and their belonging are investigated, which is nowadays ambiguous, since they get to a system of currency law (a component of financial and credit or budgetary and financial legislation) as well as to a system of industrial legislation, while having the provisions of mining, economic, civil, administrative, fiscal, customs and expert legislation in the contents. It is proposed to consider gemological law as a set of legal norms regulating public relations in the field of organizing and carrying out gemological activities connected with the acquisition of the right to use, mining, property, use and operations with gemological objects in the form of subsoil, mineral, production and secondary resources, control over their turnover and expertise.

It is noted that consideration of precious stones and precious metals, having geological and mineralogical, physicochemical, jewellery and industrial, and legal differences, as the complex object in the context of the domain of the unified legislative act, intended to be a basis of new market relations in the field of jewellery transactions, could be regarded as the justified one only at the early stage of legislative base formation for the field. Provisions are given, according to which it is recognized that the current law is outdated, since its subject of regulation has been transferred mainly to the subordinate level; the mechanisms for replenishing state funds provided in it are contradictory, incomplete and practically not implemented in practice; the form of restrictions in the circulation of valuable objects and their validity are debatable; relations of the quality and safety of products, consumer protection, ensuring a balance of public and private interests, equality of business entities, competitiveness of the industry need updating in European integration legal regulation.

For the first time in the context of geological and legislative science, the authors propose to form a structure of the gemological law system based upon the principles of differentiation of a type of gemologically important activities for generic derivatives (i.e. gemological and resource law; right of gemological circulation; right of gemological expertise etc.) as well as a type of gemological objects and resources for direct groups. Development prospects of gemological legislation are connected with its reduction to a certain agreed system and its unity provision by means of the internal and external improvement of contents and development of the Gemological Code of Ukraine.
HYDROCHEMICAL CONDITION OF GROUD WATER WITHIN THE CITY OF TATARBUNARY OF ODESSA REGION
Authors: Miedviedieva O. , Koshliakova I. , Dyniak O.
Published: July 2021

The hydrochemical state of soil aquifers within the city of Tatarbunary, Odessa region is considered. Currently, water quality is an urgent problem and is relevant not only for the city but also for the entire Odessa region and the country as a whole. In addition, due attention is not given to the problems of a small town or village, which exacerbates the problem. There are no surface water sources in Tatarbunary. The waters of artesian wells on the Upper Sarmatian aquifer are used for both domestic and drinking needs. The object of research is the groundwater of the first aquifers from the surface. The subject of research is the chemical state of groundwater within the city.

An objective assessment of the state of waters within the city can be provided only on the basis of observations of the hydrochemical composition of groundwater. To do this, it is necessary to conduct systematic monitoring observations: to have a network of observation points and appropriate cartographic material. The study was conducted in five phases, which included field and in-house work, sampling of water for chemical analysis and processing of the results.

The chemical composition of water in 23 wells within the city of Tatarbunary was studied. 16 indicators were identified and waters were assigned to a certain class and type of water according to the relevant indicators, taking into account the classification of Alokin. In addition, the results of the analyzes were compared with the indicators of maximum permissible concentrations (MPC) for water supply from wells. According to the test results, two types of water were noted, namely water of moderate mineralization and highly mineralized water. All of them belong to the class of sulfate waters. Of these were dominated by sodium ion.

It was found that water in many respects exceeds the MPC and is unsuitable for drinking water consumption (nitrite and phosphate content within the MPC).

According to the determined content of harmful substances in water, it is necessary to eliminate their presence by water treatment – installation of filters on water sources or switching to bottled water and it is necessary to adopt regulations on source maintenance and user responsibility for pollution.