bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the adaptability of spring film oats in terms of yield and grain quality in the conditions of the Kirov region
Authors: Vologzhanina E. N , Batalova G. A
Published: April 2024

Studies were carried out in order to assess the varieties and lines of spring covered oats by the ability to form stable high quality grain yields in the conditions of the Kirov region; to identify promising highly adaptive, plastic genotypes that most fully realize their yield potential in changing environmental conditions. The results of the study of 11 varieties and promising lines of spring covered oats in the nursery of competitive variety testing in the Kirov region in the period from 2020 to 2022 are presented. The Krechet varieties were used as standards generally accepted in the Volga-Vyatka region (during the research period), which are included in the State Register. The most optimal conditions for the growth and development of oats were in 2022 and 2020 when the duration of the period from seedlings to heading averaged 52 and 46 days, and the average yield in varieties was 6.21 and 6.18 t/ha, respectively. Promising lines 91h18 (6.14 t/hа) and 41h18 (5.78 t/hа), which is 0.95 and 0.59 t/ha higher than the Krechet standard. Were characterized by the highest yield while line 91h18 had a high level of plasticity (bi =1.13) and stability (Si2=0.00) based on «yield» parameter. A fairly high plasticity (bi= 1.12) and stability (Si2= 0.01) in terms of yield and grain quality indicators (for protein - bi= 1.12, Si2= 0.20, fat - bi= 1.11, Si2 = 0.00) is characterized by an intensive ‘Medved’ type variety. High indices of plasticity (bi = 1.42) and stability (Si2 = 0.00) on the basis of the parameter «grain protein content» were noted at line 162h15. The highest grain fat content was characterized for lines 178h13 (5.3 %), 4h14 (5.4 %), and 41h18 (5.6 %). Almost all the studied varieties have a high stability (Si2=0,00…0,21) of the sign. When increasing the plasticity and stability of varieties in terms of yield, a decrease in these grain quality indicators was observed, as well as a close negative relationship of the grain protein content with yield (r = -0.83). A high degree of positive dependence of the duration of the germination-heading period with HTC (r = 0.97) and yield (r = 0.79) has been established.
Improvement of the metod of protein content prediction in wheat kernels
Authors: Pasynkov A. V , Zavalin A. A , Pasynkova E. N
Published: April 2024

The study was conducted in order to expand the possibilities of using the developed multiple nonlinear regression equation, re ecting the dependence of the protein content in wheat grain (Y, %) on the content of raw gluten (X1, %) and the mass of 1000 grains (X2, g). The possibility of practical use of the developed and three improved equations for predicting the protein content of wheat grain is shown. An algorithm and results of checking the prognostic capabilities and accuracy of predict equations from independent data are presented. Generalization of experimental data from 288 literature sources of domestic and foreign authors with a total number of observations n = 4604 on more than three hundred varieties of winter and spring soft and durum wheat grown in the period from 1959 to 2020 in Russia and abroad (Albania, Belarus, Bulgaria, Egypt, Kazakhstan, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia and Ukraine) showed that the number of values that go beyond to limits regulated by GOST 10846-91 «Protein determination method» was 755 or 16.4 %. At the same time, the accuracy of prediction the protein content reached 83.6 %. The developed equations can be used to predict of protein content in almost all cases: when the results of the analysis of protein content and raw gluten in wheat kernel, as well the 1000-kernels weight are given at actual or fxed moisture content, or in terms of dry matter
Dynamics of stand indicators of pine plantations according to the data of long-term observations
Authors: Dubenok N. N , Lebedev A. V
Published: April 2024

The purpose of the study is to study the dynamics of stand indicators (average height and diameter, the basal areas and stock) of pine forest plantations of different initial density over a 120-year period based on long-term observations on permanent sample plots. The object of the study was pine plantations on permanent trial plots of the Forest Experimental Station (Moscow). Course of Growth tables are among the simplest models that reflect the change in stand indicators of a collection of forest stands. A comparison of the growth and yield of forest stands on permanent test plots was carried out with tables of the growth course of full pine plantations in the European part of Russia and with tables of the growth course of modal pine stands of the European part of Russia (ecoregions of the southern taiga, zones of mixed, deciduous forests and forest-steppe). The actual curves of the dynamics of stand indicators are located in the entire range of the presented tabular values. It was revealed that the tables of the course of growth give a greatly simplified idea of the change in stand indicators, which in actual forest stands do not have a monotonous dynamic over time. Significant deviations of the series of dynamics of average heights and diameters, basal areas, wood stocks on trial plots from the data of tables of the growth rate of complete and modal pine forest stands were noted. An alternative to traditional tables can be predictive models of the dynamics of stand indicators with different initial state of forest stands, in which there is no strict link to the quality basis.
Elemental composition of white lupine grain
Authors: Tsygutkin A. S
Published: April 2024

The study was carried out to study the elemental composition of various parts of the grain of white lupine varieties Gamma, Dega and Deter 1, which were cultivated in 2009-2011. in the North- East of the Central Black Earth Region. The content of 19 elements was determined at the Belgorodsky State Center for Agrochemical Service. The elemental composition of grain and its parts has been studied. Intensive consumption of chemical elements allows white lupine to have a unique chemical composition of the grain, which shows that the content of many chemical elements standardized in feeding is much higher than in the seeds of other leguminous crops. In terms of manganese content, white lupine is a concentrator plant. In the grain of white lupine, nitrogen (6.82±0.25 %), phosphorus (0.45±0.07 %), potassium (1.37±0.17 %), magnesium (0.17±) accumulate in significant quantities 0.02 %), sulfur (0.31±0.02 %), iron (41.85±1.36 mg/kg), zinc (48.55±4.33 mg/kg), manganese (390, 70±181.57 mg/kg), cobalt (0.82±0.19 mg/kg), molybdenum (6.80±0.67 mg/kg), which are concentrated to a greater extent in the core. The shell contains calcium (0.35±0.02 %), sodium (0.240±0.006 %), chromium (0.329±0.049 mg/kg), lead (0.60±0.04 mg/kg), cadmium (0.061 ±0.003 mg/kg), arsenic (0.024±0.002) higher than in the core. The separation of lupine grain into core and shell during deep processing can be used to increase or decrease the concentration of chemical elements. The range of variations in the content of chemical elements increases with increasing their concentration. In the analyzed samples, the content of lead, cadmium, arsenic and mercury is less than the maximum permissible values for white lupine grain used in feed. The data obtained are important for use in the production of compound feeds, protein concentrates and for determining standards for the content of chemical elements in white lupine grain and its parts as statistical materials when drawing up feeding programs for farm animals, poultry, and fish.
Influence of various fractions of ultrafine humato-saproel suspension on the growth, development and quality of basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) products in comparison with chemical fertilizers
Authors: Loskutov S. I , Pukhalsky J. V , Mityukov A. S , Vorobyov N. I , Glushakov R. I
Published: April 2024

The paper presents the results of a study of the effect of various fractions of humic acids (humic and fulvic acids), extracted from ultrafine humic-sapropel suspension, on the growth and development of various varieties of basil used for medicinal purposes. The plants were grown in a closed grow box for 50 days, while maintaining a stable internal microclimate and an optimal level of insolation for the culture inside the working area. Four varieties of commercial use were chosen as objects for the study: Green Large (mid-ripening), Emily (early-ripening), Lemona (early-ripening) and Marian (early-ripening). A soil mixture consisting of 50 % vermiculite and 50 % peaty-gley soil was used as a solid substrate for sowing seeds: the total organic content was 30.4 %; Ntotal - 1.4 %; pHKCl - 5.57; mobile forms P2O5- 8.8 and K2O - 8.2 mg/kg. Both fractions of humic acids were added as dilute solutions at a concentration of 0.01 %. The treatment of plants was carried out by alternating two methods: a single application of each fraction separately according to the options under the root, and a foliar method, when spraying the leaves once a week. In the control variant, 1.0 N water was used for irrigation during the entire growing season. Knop nutrient solution without humic acid additives. The results of morphometric and chemical analyzes showed that the Lemon variety proved to be the best candidate for further scientific research. The treated plants did not differ in height and biomass from the controls (average 29.75 mg in treatment versus 29.00 mg in control). The best organization in the diet, based on the calculation of element structural coherence indices, also resulted in a slight decrease in the efficiency of photosynthesis in this variety, which is indirectly indicated by the values of the SPAD chlorophyll optic counter (31.98 units on average during processing, against 35.54 units on the control). It is concluded that due to the introduction of organic additives, the variety spends the least amount of energy for its growth, even in a substrate depleted in elements.
Association of economicly useful features of herd horses (Equus caballus) of the transbaikal breed
Authors: Khamiruev T. N , Dashinimaev S. M , Bazaron B. Z
Published: April 2024

The studies were carried out to study the exterior- constitutional characteristics, phenotypic correlation of live weight with body measurements and body composition indices in herd horses of the Transbaikal breed, to increase the efficiency of selection. The work was carried out in the conditions of the Trans- Baikal Territory. The material for the research was stud stallions (n=7), mares (n=20) and foals at birth and at the age of 6, 18 and 30 months (n=48). Stallions exceeded the breed standard in live weight by 27.2 %, mares - by 19.3 %. The height at the withers of stallions was higher than that of the breed standard by 3.2 %, in mares by 2.5 %; oblique body length - 2.2 and 2.4, respectively; chest girth - by 8.7 and 4.6, pastern girth - by 7.9 % and 8.9 %. The animals are characterized by pronounced meat shapes, while males are distinguished by a more knitted, wide-bodied and elongated physique of a strong constitution. The average body weight of stallions up to 30 months of age increased by 8.0 times, height at the withers - by 47.1 %, oblique body length - by 2.1 times, chest girth - by 1.9 times, pastern girth - by 55 .6 %. According to body indexes, stallions and mares of the Transbaikal breed are characterized as animals with pronounced meat forms and are closer to heavy breeds. In stud stallions, there was a positive relationship between live weight and pastern girth (r=0.922) and chest girth (r=0.716). In mares, only low correlations between the studied traits were observed. In young animals, a positive correlation of varying degrees between live weight and all the main body measurements at birth was revealed. At the same time, the closest relationship was noted with chest circumference (r=0.719).
Changes in kinetic parameters and cytological characteristics of rooster spermatozoa under the influence of technological factors
Authors: Silyukova Yu. L , Fedorova E. S , Stanishevskaya O. I
Published: April 2024

The problems of fertility reducing of rooster semen in the cycle «native sperm-equilibration-short-term and long-term storage (cryopreservation)» are urgent. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of different methods of preparation (centrifugation or filtration) of rooster semen on its quality characteristics, depending on the method of removing possible pollutions; to evaluate the change in the composition of the cytosol of spermatozoa of native sperm under the influence of dilution and during short-term storage. Materials and methods. Semen of roosters (n=22) of the Russian white breed was used. Experiment 1: semen was divided into 3 aliquots: I - diluted with synthetic cryoprotective medium LCM in a ratio of 1:1, II - filtered semen diluted with medium (membrane pore diameter 0.2 μm), III - centrifuged (at 3000 rpm in for 10 minutes). Native and frozen/thawed sperm were evaluated in terms of damage to spermatozoa membranes, chromatin, and acrosomes. The composition of carbohydrates and polyols of native spermatozoa was assessed under the influence of dilution and after storage (3 h). The advantage of filtration as a method of technological preparation of semen compared to centrifugation in terms of progressive motility (with rectilinear-translational movement) of sperm (41.0 % versus 27.0 %) and chromatin damage (43.4 % versus 66.4 %) has been shown. The same advantage was observed in frozen/thawed sperm filtered before freezing in terms of progressive motility (25.5 % vs. 5.5 %) and chromatin damage - 16.5 % vs. 33.6 %, respectively. Semen filtration, as a method of technological processing of rooster semen, can be an effective additional step in the preparation of semen for artificial insemination and/or short-term storage. The main component in the composition of the cytosol of native spermatozoa, according to the content of carbohydrates and polyols, was inositol - 73.7 % of ∑ carbohydrates and polyols. The level of inositol decreased during storage by 6.5 times (from 0.030 mg/ml to 0.007 mg/ml). The data obtained let us suppose the role of inositol as the main antioxidant in the cytosol of spermatozoa. Technological factors of storing rooster semen in various modes (short-term at a temperature of 5ºC and long-term at a temperature of -196ºC) have a significant impact on the ratio of sperm cytosol components (carbohydrates and polyols). A significant, 2.5-fold decrease in the relative content of inositol in the cytosol of frozen/thawed spermatozoa, compared with the indicators of native semen, allows us to recommend the introduction of the antioxidant inositol into the composition of cryoprotective media for rooster semen.
Selection of alfalfa variegated on creation of intensive varieties with high fodder productivity: results and prospects
Authors: Kosolapov V. M. , Dumacheva E. V. , Sajfutdinova L. D.
Published: April 2024

The research was conducted in 2019-2023 in Belgorod region to assess the dry matter (DM) yield of breeding samples of alfalfa variegated, obtained by repeated selection of biotypes with high fertility in the year of sowing («juvenile samples» - JS-samples), in comparison with the original breeding varieties to select the best ones. Soil - typical chernozem with humus content (according to Tyurin) - 4.8 %, pHsol.- 6.6, P2O5 and K2O content (according to Chirikov) - 122 and 180 mg/kg, respectively. The research was carried out in three plots (2019-2023) with a randomised arrangement of plots, the repetition was fivefold. The plots were double rowed with a length of 3.5 m and row spacing width of 30 cm. Multiple selection from alfalfa varieties (Belgorodskaya 86, Krasnoyaruzskaya 1, Krasnoyaruzskaya 2) resulted in the creation of JS-samples: B-86 JS, K-1 JS and K-2 JS, which differed from the original varieties by rapid development in the first years of life. JS-samples surpassed the initial varieties by 32.1…36.0 % (p
The new tendencies in the development of international relations in the Аsia-Pacific region
Authors: Panov Alexander N.
Published: April 2024

The article analyses the new tendencies in the development of international relations in the Asia-Pacific region, caused in first place with the change in the strategy of the U.S., aimed to contain China using the course of creation «the ring of its encirclement», which consists of American allies, partners, «sympathetic countries». This strategy arouses Chinese response, which methodically strengthening its regional influence. In the region there is a process of «the delimit of forces», growing military activity, formation of the new alliances, quasi-blocks, groups of countries,
Southeast Asia in the context of the rivalry between the USA and China
Authors: Klimenko Anatoly F.
Published: April 2024

The article examines the specifics of the situation in Southeast Asia (Southeast Asia) from the point of view of military security issues and in connection with the situation in the Indo-Pacific region (ITR). The author proceeds from the fact that a serious destabilizing factor in the region remains the presence of intraregional contradictions - political, territorial and ethno-confessional, which are used by extra-regional actors under the auspices of the United States. Having identified China and Russia as the main rivals, Washington improved its Indo-Pacific strategy, activated the activities of existing ones and began to form new military-political alliances, on the basis of which it is envisaged to create an Asia-Pacific branch of NATO to contain them. The author believes that Washington's policy in Southeast Asia is opposed by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which proceeds from its central role in the evolution of the regional security architecture. In the context of the escalating rivalry between the United States and China, ASEAN sees a way to overcome the complex of regional contradictions in creating a security system based on mechanisms associated with ASEAN. In the ASEAN concept, the ITR appears as a region of dialogue and cooperation, not competition, open to China and other interested states to participate in the project. The author comes to the conclusion that such a statement of the question is justified both from the point of view of the strategic interests of the Southeast Asian countries themselves, and in general of the entire ITR. Analyzing the strategy adopted by Washington, the author believes that it becomes a long-term factor of strategic planning in the Pentagon. Its main goal will be to forcefully counter China's policy and put pressure on Russia and ASEAN, which seek to resist the dominance of the United States in the IT. In his opinion, in the current conditions of the situation, it is necessary to further strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership between Russia and China and deepen cooperation with ASEAN on the basis of common interests in order to ensure regional security and stability.
Trends of hispanic voters: a shift towards the republican party?
Authors: Chernykh Marina A.
Published: April 2024

The article provides a comparative analysis of the Hispanic support of the Democrats and Republicans during the 2016, 2018, 2020, and 2022 elections. The article reveals modern trends in the Hispanic electorate which consist in distancing from the first party and shifting toward the second one, which challenges the traditional balance of power in the political system. It has been established that this phenomenon is not new to the United States. The article identifies the reasons, examines the nature of the changes, and provides forecasts for the long term. Furthermore, the article evaluates the "red wave" phenomenon that many experts had predicted in relation to Hispanic voters on the eve of the 2022 elections.
U.S. policy in Central Asia in the context of confrontation with Russia and China
Authors: Perminova Alexandra A.
Published: April 2024

Central Asia, unlike the Asia-Pacific region, is not the main arena for the Sino-American confrontation. However, the geographical determinant - the region is surrounded by China, Russia, Iran and Afghanistan - predetermined the local nature of Washington's policy aimed at realizing American interests in the neighboring states of Central Asia. This paper examines the US policy in Central Asia at the present stage in the economic, humanitarian and security dimensions.
US-EU trade and economic relationship in the age of global rivalry
Authors: Prikhodko Oleg V.
Published: April 2024

The erosion of the U.S.-centric global order, heightened confrontation with Russia, and escalating rivalry with China are propelling the United States and the EU towards more intensive cooperation in economic and technological sectors. Coordinating sanctions and other punitive measures against 'revisionist powers' has become a key area of interaction between Washington and Brussels. Remarkably, the US-EU trade and economic relationship has advanced during the Biden presidency, contrasting sharply with the tariff and trade wars of the Trump era. Following a brief decline during the pandemic, US-EU bilateral trade has resumed growing at a rapid pace. Efforts by Washington and Brussels to address challenges posed by emerging technologies coincide with their individual pursuits of unilateral advantages in the race for technological supremacy and a transition to a green economy. While the transatlantic partners are striving for cooperation, this does not preclude potential clashes in their trade and economic interests, especially where there are foundational reasons for intense competition.
Influential Factors Analysis of ICAO English Proficiency Level of Air Traffic Controllers (ATC) Officers in Makassar
Authors: Mardiani Mardiani
Published: April 2024

The rapid development of instant lifestyles has significantly impacted the air transportation system. The air transportation system involves many parties, for example, facilities, infrastructure, and human resources. One of the parties that plays important role in human resources is the Air Traffic Controller (ATC). ATC playing a crucial role in coordinating air traffic and providing assistance to pilots. By seeing the importance of an ATC's duties, particularly in communicating with pilots, which requires them to use English as an international language in the world of flight, this research sought to identify the factors influencing the English language proficiency of ATC Officers at Sultan Hasanuddin Makassar International Airport. The research used interviews, documentation, and data analysis methods to gather and analyze data. The research's findings demonstrated that factors influencing the English language proficiency of ATC Officers at Sultan Hasanuddin Makassar International Airport are: a. Writing skills: 1) interest factors and 2) environmental factors. b. Listening skill: 1) interest factor. 2) vocabulary factor; 3) concentration factor; and 4) interest in the topic factor. c. Speaking Skill: 1) psychological factors and 2) grammatical factors. d. Reading Skill: 1) motivational factors. 2) language complexity factor; and 3) vocabulary factor.
The Influence of Incentives, Competencies, and Work Facilities on Professionalism With Implications for Employee Performance at the Regional Revenue Office of Tanjung Jabung Barat District
Authors: Bukit Pantun , Hapsara Osrita , Jahara Sri
Published: April 2024

This research aims to analyze the influence of incentives, competencies, and work facilities through professionalism on employee performance at the Regional Revenue Office (Bapenda). The method used in this research is descriptive-verification and quantitative method. Based on the approach, the sample size is determined to be 66 people. This research uses the PLS analysis method. Based on the research results, Incentives (X1), Competencies (X2), and Work Facilities (X3) have a significant simultaneous effect on Professionalism (Y). Furthermore, Incentives (X1), Competencies (X2), and Work Facilities (X3) partially have a significant effect on Professionalism (Y). Incentives (X1), Competencies (X2), and Work Facilities (X3) have a significant simultaneous effect on Employee Performance (Z). Furthermore, Incentives (X1), Competencies (X2), and Work Facilities (X3) partially have a significant effect on Employee Performance (Z). Professionalism (Y) has a significant simultaneous effect on Employee Performance (Z).
The Influence of Building Quality, Strategic Location, and Price on the Decision to Purchase Subsidized Housing in the Cileungsi Area
Authors: B Rachmat Yosua , Siagian Harlyn , Gallena Sinaga Judith Tagal
Published: April 2024

This study aims to present a comprehensive depiction of the factors influencing the decision-making process regarding the purchase of subsidized housing, focusing specifically on variables such as building quality, strategic location, and price. The research objectives include identifying the key variables impacting the choice of acquiring subsidized housing in the Cileungsi region through a quantitative descriptive approach. Utilizing purposive sampling, the study surveyed one hundred local residents who recently acquired homes through government assistance programs. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) employing variance-based methods or component-based structural equation modeling, specifically Partial Least Squares (PLS), was utilized for data analysis. The anticipated outcomes of this investigation are expected to contribute significantly to understanding consumer behavior in the context of subsidized housing purchases in Cileungsi. Moreover, the application of PLS analysis methods is poised to provide an in-depth comprehension of the interrelationships among variables within the tested model and furnish strategic recommendations for developers of subsidized housing and pertinent stakeholders to enhance product appeal.
Eğirdir Gölü alansal değişiminin uzaktan algılama ve coğrafi bilgi sistemleri yardımıyla analizi
Authors: Kale Mustafa Murat , Erişmiş Mustafa
Published: April 2024

Türkiye’nin önemli tatlı su kaynaklarından biri olan Eğirdir Gölü Akdeniz Havzası’nda yaşanan küresel ısınma ve iklim değişikliğinin yanı sıra antropojenik faaliyetlerden olumsuz yönde etkilenmektedir. Eğirdir Gölü gün geçtikçe artan bir baskı ile karşı karşıyadır. Bu çalışmada, Eğirdir Gölü’ndeki alansal değişim Uzaktan Algılama (UA) ve Coğrafi Bilgi Sistemleri (CBS) kullanılarak analiz edilmiştir. 1984-2022 yılları arasındaki otuz dokuz yıllık çalışma dönemi boyunca Eğirdir Gölü’ndeki alansal değişim çok zamanlı uydu görüntüleri aracılığıyla araştırılmıştır. Bu kapsamda çalışmada Landsat 5 TM ve Landsat 8 OLI/TIRS uydu görüntüleri kullanılmıştır. Çalışmanın temel veri seti farklı tarihlere ait kıyı çizgileridir. Veri seti uydu görüntülerinden itibaren üretilmiştir. Göl kıyı çizgisinin belirlenmesi için Normalleştirilmiş Fark Su İndeksi (NDWI) ve Modifiye Normalleştirilmiş Fark Su İndeksi (MNDWI) yöntemleri kullanılmıştır. Seçili yöntemlerle elde edilen kıyı çizgileri Pearson’s R korelasyon katsayısı, Yapısal Benzerlik İndeksi (SSIM) ve Hata Kareler Ortalamasının Karekökü (RMSE) ile bir arada değerlendirilmiştir. Çalışma bulguları iki temel sonuca ulaşılmasını sağlamıştır. MNDWI yöntemi NDWI yöntemine göre sazlık alanların bulunduğu sahalarda daha üstün sonuç vermiş olup Eğirdir Gölü NDWI yöntemine göre %6,16 ve MNDWI yöntemine göre ise %6,71 oranlarında küçülmüştür.
Reconstructing the Development of Somerset’s Early Medieval Church
Authors: Lomas Carole
Published: April 2024

Reconstructing the Development of Somerset’s Early Medieval Church uses Somerset as a case study in order to contribute to a broader understanding of how the Church developed across the British Isles during the transition from the post-Roman Church to that in existence in the 11th century. To facilitate this a large retrogressive data set was constructed which enabled new patterns of development to be identified; this has pushed forward understanding of how Somerset and the South-West evolved, including the reconstruction of Somerset’s early great estates and early medieval parochiae. Crucially, it demonstrates how the medieval archdeaconries and deaneries correlate with Somerset’s early great estates. This book identifies the pastorally pre-eminent early medieval churches across Somerset by using a weighting system which enables comparative assessments of different types of evidence, including both historical and topographical, to enable the changing significance of individual churches to be assessed. The two most important conclusions are that the development of the Church in Somerset varied from parochia to parochia; there is no one trajectory of Church development and that there is only a weak link between early medieval minster settlements and later urbanisation. The book collates and cross-references all the earlier research into Somerset’s early medieval Church and in so doing becomes the most up-to-date study of Somerset’s post-Roman churches. The retrogressive systematic approach to the collection and collating of data provides a methodology for understanding the development of the early medieval Church in other regions.
Living in the Ice Age
Authors: Elle Clifford , Paul Bahn , Chris Packham
Published: April 2024

“It’s tempting to think that we can learn little from people who ate and drank, laughed and cried, between 40 and 12,000 years ago, but I think we should – because these remarkable people not only lived but survived through a period of unimaginable change on our planet.” – from the foreword by Chris Packham

Living in the Ice Age takes you on a journey through life in Ice Age Europe, and the things you’d need to know to survive! This book looks at the daily life of biologically modern humans from about 40,000 to 12,000 years ago, a time when the climate and environment were changing rapidly. Explore the types of houses, food, clothes and toys people created in the Ice Age to see whether you would have liked to live back then.
Blue/Green Glass Bottles from Roman Britain
Authors: H.E.M. Cool
Published: April 2024

Square bottles came into use in the AD 60s and rapidly became the commonest glass vessel form in the empire. For the next two centuries their fragments dominate all glass assemblages. Hitherto this material has not been exploited to any great extent because there has been no close chronological framework.

Blue/Green Glass Bottles from Roman Britain presents a classification scheme for the moulded base patterns which allows their chronological development to be reconstructed. With this it is possible to explore how sizes and capacities changed with time. The British data are set within the context of the bottles from the rest of the western empire, and it can be seen that different provinces favoured different base patterns in a systematic fashion. Previously it has been assumed that base patterns reflect long distance trade of the bottles and their contents. Now it can be seen that the main driving force for the distribution of bottles with similar distinctive base patterns was most probably the movements of military units, and that most bottles were made locally.

An investigation of common capacities indicates that these were shared with glass bath flasks and it is proposed that, just as bath flasks were oil containers for hygiene purposes, square bottles became so common because they were the favoured vessel for household oil. The chronological trajectories of square bottles, bath flasks and the Spanish olive oil industry evidenced by Dressel 20 amphoras are identical, but previously unremarked upon.
A Map of the Body, a Map of the Mind: Visualising Geographical Knowledge in the Roman World
Authors: Iain Ferris
Published: April 2024

A Map of the Body, a Map of the Mind is a study about the relationship between geography and power in the ancient Roman world, and most particularly about the visualisation of geographical knowledge in myriad forms of geography products, including geographical treatises, histories, poems, personifications, landscape representations, images of barbarian peoples, maps, itineraries, and imported foodstuffs. As Rome broke its political bounds and headed towards empire the whole city became the centre and the Roman world-view changed with it. The Roman state then needed to present to the Roman people an easily-digestible narrative about its imperial ambition and imperial possessions, in a way that went beyond the fact that servitude, enslavement, and misery for many underpinned this expansion. There needed to be a publicly-guided discourse centred around the smoothing out of difference, rather than its obliteration or elimination, and the presentation of many different lifeworlds in a familiar way using geographical information. This marked a way of directing how change could be managed and of reimagining how the world might be and might work at the intersection between selection, knowledge, and insight. Reflection and communication sought to create a communal sense of belonging. If not actually doors, these geographical images were at least windows onto self-identity and otherness, letting light in on a sombre struggle against accidie.
Analytical Methods for Tracking Bodies Motions on the Lunar Surface in Apollo XVI Footage
Authors: Michelotti Alessio , Simon Andrea
Published: April 2024

This manuscript introduces a robust analytical method to trace and analyze the movement of bodies shot during the Apollo XVI mission on the lunar surface. By employing both 2D and 3D analysis techniques, we aim to provide a detailed comparison of the observed kinematic events against theoretical models.

The paper extends a previous work focused on the kinematics of lunar dust utilizing footage from the “Grand Prix” sequence of the Apollo XVI mission ("Ballistic motion of dust particles in the Lunar Roving Vehicle dust trails" published in 2012 on the American Journal of Physics by Mihaly Horanyi and Hsiang-Wen Hsu: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/258468670 [_Ann. 1_ [https://www.tech-cc.eu/tcc/wp-content/uploads/2020/TAXVIF/Annexes/01_AJP_2012.pdf]_ – __Ann. 2_ [https://www.tech-cc.eu/tcc/wp-content/uploads/2020/TAXVIF/Annexes/02_roostertail.zip]]).

The objective is to validate lunar environmental models and enhance the understanding of motion dynamics on the lunar surface. This comprehensive analysis reconstructs the image production chain and the photographic and television transmission technology used during the Apollo 16 mission and indicates the good practices to follow for the correct digital transposition of the various types of film produced. Not only does it reassess existing data but also introduces new methodologies in order to interpret the lunar surface motions of bodies captured during Apollo missions.
Audit of Haemodialysis Vascular Access in a Sub-Saharan Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Ayokunle Samuel Dada , Olusegun Aremu Ayanwale , Awolowo Thomas Anthony , Ibiso Isijola Bukola
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND: Guidelines recommend using arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) as the preferred vascular access route for haemodialysis patients. However, in resource-poor settings, establishment and maintenance of AVFs can be challenging. This research aims to audit the current practices and outcomes of vascular access routes for haemodialysis at Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria, a tertiary hospital in sub-Saharan Africa.

METHOD AND MATERIALS: This retrospective, descriptive analysis examines vascular access routes for haemodialysis at our dialysis centre over 11 years, utilising data collected from the medical records of patients who received haemodialysis

RESULT: Among the 318 patients, males were more prevalent (61.3% vs. 38.7%). The average age was 49.7 years. Femoral catheters were most commonly used compared to other catheters. Catheter use lasted less than a month for two-thirds of patients (66.4%), while 24.8% used them beyond 6 months. Catheter-related infection (49.8%) was the most frequent complication followed by discomfort (25.8%). Discontinuation reasons included clinical improvement (especially in acute kidney injury patients, 52.0%), death (17.3%), transplantation (3.1%), bleeding (2.8%), and recurrent infection (6.0%).

CONCLUSION: The implications of these findings are far-reaching, as suboptimal vascular access can negatively impact patient outcomes, quality of life, and the overall effectiveness of haemodialysis.
Correlation Between HbA1c and Body Mass Index Among Patients with High Lipid Profile Attending Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare Hospital in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Kheir Omer , Dossary Sheikha , Dhalaan Mohammad , AlHajri Salman , Aljeshi Ali , Wali Dawoud Raseel , Ghamdi Mohammad
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND: Dyslipidemia is a modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and stroke. Obesity and elevated HbA1c levels are both risk factors for cardiovascular diseases.

OBJECTIVES: The main objective of this study was to examine the relationship between HbA1C and body mass index among patients with high lipid profiles.

METHODS: This retrospective, hospital-based study was conducted at Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare Facilities. Data were extracted from medical health records and included demographics, lipid profiles, and HbA1c measurements. The study included 2368 non-diabetic participants, and DATAtab was used to analyze the data.

RESULTS: The participants were 57.05% male and 78.42% Saudi. The mean age was 41.48±12.1 years, and the mean body mass index was 28.44±5.53. There was a statistically significant relationship between the use of lipid lowering medicine and HbA1c (P<0.001). There was a very weak positive but statistically significant relationship between HbA1c and body mass index (r = 0.18, P<0.001). HbA1c and systolic blood pressure appeared to have a statistically significant positive association (r = 0.16, P< 0.001). There was no correlation between HbA1c and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, or diastolic blood pressure. There was an inverse correlation between HbA1c and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (r = -0.11, P< 0.001). Regression was performed using a linear multivariable analysis with HbA1c as the dependent variable and age (B 0.192, P<0.001), body mass index (B 0.119, P<0.001), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (B -0.058, P<0.005), triglyceride (B 0.093, P<0.001), lipid-lowering medication (B 0.104, P<0.001), and systolic blood pressure (B 0.060, P< 0.003) as independent variables. 

CONCLUSION: The results indicated that HbA1c is linked to body mass index, age, systolic blood pressure, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. There was no correlation between HbA1c and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, or diastolic blood pressure.
The State of the ‘Planet’ Pillar by 2022 — A Partial Ordering-Based Analysis of the Sustainable Development Goals 6, 12, 13, 14, and 15
Authors: Carlsen Lars
Published: April 2024

The 2022 Sustainable Development Report provides the data for the so-called Planet pillar, i.e., the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 6, 12, 13, 14, and 15 that are studied to elucidate the state of simultaneous compliance with these five goals as well as the trends in development for the 193 countries included in the report. To the extent that data for all five SDGs were available partial ordering methodology was applied as the analytical tool to rank the countries according to their compliance as well as their trend toward compliance based on the 2022 data. The analytical approach allows simultaneously taking data for all five SDGs into account to get an overall picture of the “planet” midway through the 15 years of the 17 UN SDGs. From the analyses, it became clear that high-income countries, despite their economic capacity are lagging both about the actual state and especially about the trend of development toward eventual compliance with the goals. The analyses further pinpointed that SDG 6 – clean water and sanitation – appeared as the most important indicator for the ranking of countries or regions. Building on the author’s previous research on the topic, this study points to the necessity for high-income countries to focus on the eventual compliance with the goal, both for themselves as well as for supporting countries with less economic capacities.
The Impact of Hard Discount Stores on Local Labor Markets: Evidence from Colombia
Authors: Delgado-Prieto Lukas , Otero-Cortés Andrea , Calderón Andrés
Published: April 2024

Hard discount stores (HDS) have changed the dynamics of the traditional retail sector by selling a basket of products at very low prices. This business model has gained significant market share in many countries, but little is known about its impact on the labor market. To fill this gap in the literature, in this paper we study the impact of the entry of hard discounters on local labor markets in Colombia. Making use of the staggered geographic expansion of major discount chains throughout of the main discount chains throughout the country as part of our empirical strategy and using information from different sources, such as administrative records on social security and the administrative records on social security and the GEIH household survey, we analyze the impact of these stores on labor formality and tax collection. Our results show that the arrival of HDS in a municipality increases local formal employment, especially in the retail trade, manufacturing and agriculture sectors. This suggests that there are significant spillover effects from retail to other economic sectors, as most of the goods sold by these stores are local products. As for the informal sector, increased competition between formal and informal traders has no statistical effect on informal employment. However, we do find a decline in labor income and earnings of informal retailers, suggesting that the margin of adjustment is not through lower employment but via lower earnings.
Can Military Become an Accountable Humanitarian Actor?: Perception of Humanitarian Norms and Modus Operandi of the ROK Army and Japan Self Defense Force
Authors:   Korea Association of International Development and Cooperation, Kwon Goosoon
Published: April 2024

Purpose: The study aims to investigate the extent to which these military entities, the ROK Army (ROKA) and the Japan Self Defense Forces (JSDF) perceive humanitarian norms and operational guidelines as accountable humanitarian actors.
Originality: Given that the role of military in offshore humanitarian action has become both prominent and complex, understanding the sensitization of these organizations to key humanitarian principles is a critical facet of assessing their capacity to engage in relief operations in an ethical and legitimate manner.
Methodology: The survey with structured questionnaires was administered to 104 officers from the ROKA and 101 veteran officers from the JSDF including focus group interviews. Independent sample t-tests were conducted to identify differences in perceptions between the two groups, utilizing SPSS 25 as the analytical tool.
Result: Both the ROKA and the JSDF demonstrated a relatively high level of awareness and commitment to humanitarian principles, though variations in perception were observed. Notably, differences emerged in their perceptions of guidelines for the use of military assets in humanitarian operations, with the ROKA exhibiting a comparatively higher level of perception in certain areas. The JSDF, on the other hand, showed higher levels of perception regarding the impacts of complex humanitarian emergencies, particularly natural disasters.
Conclusions and Implication: These findings underscore the need for tailored training of humanitarian action, and transparent communication and coordination strategies with civilian agencies to enhance their effectiveness in addressing humanitarian crises in fragile contexts.
Customer Feedback Analysis Using Text Mining
Authors: Mishra Kinnari , Vegad Mansi
Published: April 2024

Complexity surrounding the holistic nature of customer experience has made measuring customer perceptions of interactive service experiences challenging. At the same time, advances in technology and changes in methods for collecting explicit customer feedback are generating increasing volumes of unstructured textual data, making it difficult for managers to analyze and interpret this information. Consequently, text mining, a method enabling automatic extraction of information from textual data, is gaining in popularity. However, this method has performed below expectations in terms of depth of analysis of customer experience feedback and accuracy. In this study, we advance linguistics-based text mining modeling to inform the process of developing an improved framework. The proposed framework incorporates important elements of customer experience, service methodologies and theories such as co-creation processes, interactions and context. This more holistic approach for analyzing feedback facilitates a deeper analysis of customer feedback experiences, by encompassing three value creation elements: activities, resources, and context (ARC). Empirical results show that the ARC framework facilitates the development of a text mining model for analysis of customer textual feedback that enables companies to assess the impact of interactive service processes on customer experiences. The proposed text mining model shows high accuracy levels and provides flexibility through training. As such, it can evolve to account for changing contexts over time and be deployed across different (service) business domains; we term it an “open learning” model. The ability to timely assess customer experience feedback represents a pre-requisite for successful co-creation processes in a service environment.
Reacciones cutáneas relacionadas a la infección por molusco contagioso
Authors: Caussade Marie-Chantal , Downey Camila , Krämer Daniela
Published: April 2024

El molusco contagioso (MC) es una infección viral frecuente en niños, inmunodeprimidos y adultos sexualmente activos. Su presentación clínica característica son pápulas blanquecinas o color piel de superficie brillante y umbilicación central, de 2 a 5 mm de diámetro, generalmente agrupadas y distribuidas de forma aleatoria en la superficie cutánea. A la dermatoscopia destacan estructuras polilobuladas blancas-amarillentas con telangiectasias periféricas. Su diagnóstico suele ser clínico apoyado por la dermatoscopia. Sin embargo, ocasionalmente, puede presentarse asociado a reacciones inflamatorias, simulando otras condiciones dermatológicas, lo que dificulta el diagnóstico y puede llevar al uso de tratamientos innecesarios. El objetivo de esta actualidad es describir las principales reacciones cutáneas secundarias a la infección por MC, con el fin de otorgar una herramienta diagnóstica y de manejo inicial para los médicos que se enfrentan a estas condiciones. Entre las manifestaciones reportadas se describe el signo del BOTE, dermatitis por molusco, reacción Gianotti Crosti- like, reacción ID, eritema anular centrífugo, eritema multiforme, foliculitis, halo pálido y manifestaciones atípicas (lesiones gigantes, diseminadas, necróticas, polipoidales, nodulares, pseudoquistes, abscesos). En pacientes pediátricos en que vemos las manifestaciones clínicas anteriormente descritas se debe tener presente la infección por virus pox del molusco contagioso dentro de los diagnósticos diferenciales, y derivar al dermatólogo oportunamente en casos seleccionados.