bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cryopreservation of 13 Commercial Cannabis sativa Genotypes Using In Vitro Nodal Explants
Authors: Downey Cassandra D. , Golenia Gregory , Boudko Ekaterina A. , Jones Andrew Maxwell P.
Published: August 2021

Cannabis has developed into a multi-billion-dollar industry that relies on clonal propagation of elite genetics with desirable agronomic and chemical phenotypes. While the goal of clonal propagation is to produce genetically uniform plants, somatic mutations can accumulate during growth and compromise long-term genetic fidelity. Cryopreservation is a process in which tissues are stored at cryogenic temperatures, halting cell division and metabolic processes to facilitate high fidelity germplasm preservation. In this study, a series of experiments were conducted to optimize various stages of cryopreservation and develop a protocol for long-term germplasm storage of Cannabis sativa. The resulting protocol uses a standard vitrification procedure to cryopreserve nodal explants from in vitro shoots as follows: nodes were cultured for 17 h in a pre-culture solution (PCS), followed by a 20-min treatment in a loading solution (LS), and a 60 min incubation in plant vitrification solution 2 (PVS2). The nodes were then flash frozen in liquid nitrogen, re-warmed in an unloading solution at 40 °C, and cultured on basal MS culture medium in the dark for 5 days followed by transfer to standard culture conditions. This protocol was tested across 13 genotypes to assess the genotypic variability. The protocol was successful across all 13 genotypes, but significant variation was observed in tissue survival (43.3–80%) and regrowth of shoots (26.7–66.7%). Plants grown from cryopreserved samples were morphologically and chemically similar to control plants for most major traits, but some differences were observed in the minor cannabinoid and terpene profiles. While further improvements are likely possible, this study provides a functional cryopreservation system that works across multiple commercial genotypes for long-term germplasm preservation.
Unraveling Sorghum Allelopathy in Agriculture: Concepts and Implications
Authors: Hussain M. Iftikhar , Danish Subhan , Sánchez-Moreiras Adela M. , Vicente Óscar , Jabran Khawar , Chaudhry Usman Khalid , Branca Ferdinando , Reigosa Manuel J.
Published: August 2021

Allelopathy is an ecological phenomenon that involves the production and release of biomolecules from different crops, cultivated plants, and bacteria or fungi into the soil rhizosphere and impacts other organisms in the vicinity. Sorghum possesses vital allelopathic characteristics due to which it produces and releases different biomolecules from its root hairs, stems, and grains. Several studies have reported that sorghum acts as an allelopathic crop, decreasing the growth and eco-physiological attributes of surrounding plants and weeds growing simultaneously or subsequently in the field. Sorghum allelopathy has been exploited in the context of green manure, crop rotations, cover crops, and intercropping or mulching, whereas plant aqueous extracts or powder might be an alternate method of weed control. A diverse group of allelochemicals, including benzoic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, vanillic acid, ferulic acid, chlorogenic acid, m-coumaric acid, p-coumaric acid, gallic acid, caffeic acid, p-hydroxibenzaldehyde, dhurrin, sorgoleone, m-hydroxybenzoic acid and protocatechuic acid, have been isolated and identified from different plant tissues of sorghum and root exudates. These allelochemicals, especially sorgoleone, have been investigated in terms of their mode(s) of action, specific activity and selectivity, release in the rhizosphere and uptake and translocation in sensitive species. The present review describes the importance of sorghum allelopathy as an ecological tool in managing weeds, highlighting the most recent advances in the allelochemicals present in sorghum, their modes of action, and their fate in the ecosystem. Further research should focus on the evaluation and selection of sorghum cultivars with high allelopathic potential, so that sorghum allelopathy can be better utilized for weed control and yield enhancement.
Deciphering the Physicochemical and Microscopical Changes in Ganoderma boninense-Infected Oil Palm Woodblocks under the Influence of Phenolic Compounds
Authors: Surendran Arthy , Siddiqui Yasmeen , Ahmad Khairulmazmi , Fernanda Rozi
Published: August 2021

The threat of Ganoderma boninense, the causal agent of basal stem rot disease, in the oil palm industry warrants finding an effective control for it. The weakest link in the disease management strategy is the unattended stumps/debris in the plantations. Hence, this study aimed to determine whether the selected phenolic compounds could control G. boninense in inoculated oil palm woodblocks and restrict wood biodegradation. Results indicated a significant reduction in the wood mass loss when treated with all the phenolic compounds. Surprisingly, syringic and vanillic acids behaved ambivalently; at a lower concentration, the wood mass loss was increased, but it decreased as the concentrations were increased. In all four phenolic compounds, the inhibition of mass loss was dependent on the concentration of the compounds. After 120 days, the mass loss was only 31%, with 63% relative degradation of lignin and cellulose, and 74% of hemicellulose and wood anatomy, including silica bodies, were intact in those woodblocks treated with 1 mM benzoic acid. This study emphasizes the physicochemical and anatomical changes occurring in the oil palm wood during G. boninense colonization, and suggests that treating oil palm stumps with benzoic acid could be a solution to reducing the G. boninense inoculum pressure during replantation in a sustainable manner.
Isolation and Characterization of Endophyte Bacillus velezensis KOF112 from Grapevine Shoot Xylem as Biological Control Agent for Fungal Diseases
Authors: Hamaoka Kazuhiro , Aoki Yoshinao , Suzuki Shunji
Published: August 2021

As the use of chemical fungicides has raised environmental concerns, biological control agents have attracted interest as an alternative to chemical fungicides for plant-disease control. In this study, we attempted to explore biological control agents for three fungal phytopathogens causing downy mildew, gray mold, and ripe rot in grapevines, which are derived from shoot xylem of grapevines. KOF112, which was isolated from the Japanese indigenous wine grape Vitis sp. cv. Koshu, inhibited mycelial growth of Botrytis cinerea, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, and Phytophthora infestans. The KOF112-inhibited mycelial tips were swollen or ruptured, suggesting that KOF112 produces antifungal substances. Analysis of the 16S rDNA sequence revealed that KOF112 is a strain of Bacillus velezensis. Comparative genome analysis indicated significant differences in the synthesis of non-ribosomal synthesized antimicrobial peptides and polyketides between KOF112 and the antagonistic B. velezensis FZB42. KOF112 showed biocontrol activities against gray mold caused by B. cinerea, anthracnose by C. gloeosporioides, and downy mildew by Plasmopara viticola. In the KOF112–P. viticola interaction, KOF112 inhibited zoospore release from P. viticola zoosporangia but not zoospore germination. In addition, KOF112 drastically upregulated the expression of genes encoding class IV chitinase and β-1,3-glucanase in grape leaves, suggesting that KOF112 also works as a biotic elicitor in grapevine. Because it is considered that endophytic KOF112 can colonize well in and/or on grapevine, KOF112 may contribute to pest-management strategies in viticulture and potentially reduce the frequency of chemical fungicide application.
Phenocave: An Automated, Standalone, and Affordable Phenotyping System for Controlled Growth Conditions
Authors: Leiva Fernanda , Vallenback Pernilla , Ekblad Tobias , Johansson Eva , Chawade Aakash
Published: August 2021

Controlled plant growth facilities provide the possibility to alter climate conditions affecting plant growth, such as humidity, temperature, and light, allowing a better understanding of plant responses to abiotic and biotic stresses. A bottleneck, however, is measuring various aspects of plant growth regularly and non-destructively. Although several high-throughput phenotyping facilities have been built worldwide, further development is required for smaller custom-made affordable systems for specific needs. Hence, the main objective of this study was to develop an affordable, standalone and automated phenotyping system called “Phenocave” for controlled growth facilities. The system can be equipped with consumer-grade digital cameras and multispectral cameras for imaging from the top view. The cameras are mounted on a gantry with two linear actuators enabling XY motion, thereby enabling imaging of the entire area of Phenocave. A blueprint for constructing such a system is presented and is evaluated with two case studies using wheat and sugar beet as model plants. The wheat plants were treated with different irrigation regimes or high nitrogen application at different developmental stages affecting their biomass accumulation and growth rate. A significant correlation was observed between conventional measurements and digital biomass at different time points. Post-harvest analysis of grain protein content and composition corresponded well with those of previous studies. The results from the sugar beet study revealed that seed treatment(s) before germination influences germination rates. Phenocave enables automated phenotyping of plants under controlled conditions, and the protocols and results from this study will allow others to build similar systems with dimensions suitable for their custom needs.
Dimethylimidazolium-Functionalized Polybenzimidazole and Its Organic–Inorganic Hybrid Membranes for Anion Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Jheng Li-Cheng , Cheng Cheng-Wei , Ho Ko-Shan , Hsu Steve Lien-Chung , Hsu Chung-Yen , Lin Bi-Yun , Ho Tsung-Han
Published: August 2021

A quaternized polybenzimidazole (PBI) membrane was synthesized by grafting a dimethylimidazolium end-capped side chain onto PBI. The organic–inorganic hybrid membrane of the quaternized PBI was prepared via a silane-induced crosslinking process with triethoxysilylpropyl dimethylimidazolium chloride. The chemical structure and membrane morphology were characterized using NMR, FTIR, TGA, SEM, EDX, AFM, SAXS, and XPS techniques. Compared with the pristine membrane of dimethylimidazolium-functionalized PBI, its hybrid membrane exhibited a lower swelling ratio, higher mechanical strength, and better oxidative stability. However, the morphology of hydrophilic/hydrophobic phase separation, which facilitates the ion transport along hydrophilic channels, only successfully developed in the pristine membrane. As a result, the hydroxide conductivity of the pristine membrane (5.02 × 10−2 S cm−1 at 80 °C) was measured higher than that of the hybrid membrane (2.22 × 10−2 S cm−1 at 80 °C). The hydroxide conductivity and tensile results suggested that both membranes had good alkaline stability in 2M KOH solution at 80 °C. Furthermore, the maximum power densities of the pristine and hybrid membranes of dimethylimidazolium-functionalized PBI reached 241 mW cm−2 and 152 mW cm−2 at 60 °C, respectively. The fuel cell performance result demonstrates that these two membranes are promising as AEMs for fuel cell applications.
Immobilization of Phospholipase A1 Using a Protein-Inorganic Hybrid System
Authors: Cheng Shi , Guo Zitao , Liang Chaojuan , Shi Yi , Geng Peng , Xin Yu , Gu Zhenghua , Zhang Liang
Published: August 2021

In this study, four kinds of phospholipase A1-metal (Al/Co/Cu/Mn) hybrid nanostructures were prepared for enhancing the stability of the free PLA1. The formed hybrid complexes were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The stability and substrate specificity of immobilized enzymes were subsequently determined. After immobilization, the temperature tolerance of PLA1–metal hybrid nanostructures was enhanced. The relative activity of PLA1–Al/Co/Cu hybrid nanostructures remained above 60% at 50 °C, while that of free enzyme was below 5%. The thermal transition temperature measured by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was found to increase from 65.59 °C (free enzyme) to 173.14 °C, 123.67 °C, 96.31 °C, and 114.79 °C, referring to PLA1–Cu/Co/Al/Mn hybrid nanostructures, respectively. Additionally, after a storage for fourteen days at 4 °C, the immobilized enzymes could exhibit approximately 60% of the initial activity, while the free PLA1 was inactivated after four days of storage. In brief, using Co2+, Cu2+, Al3+, and Mn2+ as the hybridization materials for immobilization could improve the catalytic properties and stability of the free PLA1, suggesting a promising method for a wider application of PLA1 in many fields such as food, cosmetics, and the pharmaceutical industry.
Void Content Minimization in Vacuum Infusion (VI) via Effective Degassing
Authors: Juan Jaime , Silva Arlindo , Tornero Jose Antonio , Gámez Jose , Salán Nuria
Published: August 2021

This paper addresses the major concern which component porosity represents in Vacuum Infusion (VI) manufacturing due to resin gelation at pressures close to absolute vacuum. Degassing is a fundamental step to minimize or even avoid resin outgassing and enhance dissolution of voids created during preform impregnation. The efficacy of different degassing procedures based on vacuum degassing, and assisted by adding a nucleation medium, High Speed (HS) resin stirring and/or later pressurization during different time intervals have been analyzed in terms of final void content is studied. Through a rigorous and careful design of the manufacturing process, outgassing effects on final void content were isolated from the rest of porosity causes and specimens with two clearly identifiable regions in terms of porosity were manufactured to facilitate its analysis. Maximum void content was kept under 4% and porous area size was reduced by 72% with respect to conventional vacuum degassing when resin was stirred at HS; therefore, highlighting the importance of enhancing bubble formation during degassing.
Tuning Power Ultrasound for Enhanced Performance of Thermoplastic Micro-Injection Molding: Principles, Methods, and Performances
Authors: Zhao Baishun , Qiang Yuanbao , Wu Wangqing , Jiang Bingyan
Published: August 2021

With the wide application of Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMSs), especially the rapid development of wearable flexible electronics technology, the efficient production of micro-parts with thermoplastic polymers will be the core technology of the harvesting market. However, it is significantly restrained by the limitations of the traditional micro-injection-molding (MIM) process, such as replication fidelity, material utilization, and energy consumption. Currently, the increasing investigation has been focused on the ultrasonic-assisted micro-injection molding (UAMIM) and ultrasonic plasticization micro-injection molding (UPMIM), which has the advantages of new plasticization principle, high replication fidelity, and cost-effectiveness. The aim of this review is to present the latest research activities on the action mechanism of power ultrasound in various polymer micro-molding processes. At the beginning of this review, the physical changes, chemical changes, and morphological evolution mechanism of various thermoplastic polymers under different application modes of ultrasonic energy field are introduced. Subsequently, the process principles, characteristics, and latest developments of UAMIM and UPMIM are scientifically summarized. Particularly, some representative performance advantages of different polymers based on ultrasonic plasticization are further exemplified with a deeper understanding of polymer–MIM relationships. Finally, the challenges and opportunities of power ultrasound in MIM are prospected, such as the mechanism understanding and commercial application.
Novel Approaches to In-Situ ATR-FTIR Spectroscopy and Spectroscopic Imaging for Real-Time Simultaneous Monitoring Curing Reaction and Diffusion of the Curing Agent at Rubber Nanocomposite Surface
Authors: Muroga Shun , Takahashi Yu , Hikima Yuta , Ata Seisuke , Kazarian Sergei G. , Ohshima Masahiro , Okazaki Toshiya , Hata Kenji
Published: August 2021

Here, we propose a novel attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy method for simultaneously monitoring the curing reaction and the diffusion behavior of curing agents at the surface of rubber in real-time. The proposed scheme was demonstrated by fluorine rubber (FKM) and FKM/carbon nanotube (CNT) nanocomposites with a target curing agent of triallyl-isocyanurate (TAIC). The broadening and the evolution of the C=O stretching of TAIC were quantitatively analyzed to characterize the reaction and the diffusion. Changes in the width of the C=O stretching indicated the reaction rate at the surface was even faster than that of the bulk as measured by a curemeter. The diffusion coefficient of the curing agent in the course of heating was newly calculated by the initial increase in the absorbance and our model based on Fickian diffusion. The diffusion coefficients of TAIC during curing were evaluated, and its temperature and filler dependency were identified. Cross-sectional ATR-FTIR imaging and in situ ATR-FTIR imaging measurements supported the hypothesis of the unidirectional diffusion of the curing agent towards the heated surface. It was shown that our method of in situ ATR-FTIR can monitor the degrees of cure and the diffusion coefficients of curing agents simultaneously, which cannot be achieved by conventional methods, e.g., rheological measurements.
Innovative Polyelectrolyte Treatment to Flame-Retard Wood
Authors: Soula Marie , Samyn Fabienne , Duquesne Sophie , Landry Véronic
Published: August 2021

Fire protection has been a major challenge in wood construction for many years, mainly due to the high flame spread risk associated with wood flooring. Wood fire-retardancy is framed by two main axes: coating and bulk impregnation. There is a growing need for economically and environmentally friendly alternatives. The study of polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs) for wood substrates is in its infancy, but PECs’ versatility and eco-friendly character are already recognized for fabric fire-retardancy fabrics. In this study, a new approach to PEC characterization is proposed. First, PECs, which consist of polyethyleneimine and sodium phytate, were chemically and thermally characterized to select the most promising systems. Then, yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis Britt.) was surface-impregnated under reduced pressure with the two PECs identified as the best options. Overall, wood fire-retardancy was improved with a low weight gain of 2 wt.% without increasing water uptake.
Influence of Solid Lubricant Addition on Friction and Wear Response of 3D Printed Polymer Composites
Authors: Keshavamurthy R. , Tambrallimath Vijay , Rajhi Ali A. , R. M Shabbir Ahmed , Patil Arun Y. , Yunus Khan T. M. , Makannavar R.
Published: August 2021

In this study, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and graphite powder—a solid lubricant—were filled and characterized for friction and wear responses. The fused deposition modeling (FDM) technique was utilized to synthesize ABS–graphite composites. A twin-screw extrusion approach was employed to create the composite filament of graphite–ABS that is suitable for the FDM process. Three graphite particle ratios ranging from 0% to 5% were explored in the ABS matrix. The wear and friction properties of ABS composites were examined using a pin on disc tribometer at varied sliding velocities and weights. As a result of the graphite addition in the ABS matrix, weight losses for FDM components as well as a decreased coefficient of friction were demonstrated. Furthermore, as the graphite weight percentage in the ABS matrix grows the value of friction and wear loss decreases. The wear mechanisms in graphite filled ABS composites and ABS were extensively examined using scanning electron microscopy and confocal microscopy.
STUDY OF THE FORMATION OF THE STRUCTURE OF GRAY CAST IRON BY THE METHOD OF THERMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS
Authors: Gabelchenko N. I. , Kidalov N. A. , Belov A. A. , Karpova E. Y. , Bezmogorychnyy M. D. , Polyak S. R.
Published: August 2021

The work is devoted to the study of the effect of an exothermic carbon-containing additive of a facing layer of a sandy-clay molding mixture on the eutectic transformation of cast iron. For this, the method of thermographic analysis was used and metallographic analysis of the metal under study was carried out. It is shown that the results obtained by thermographic analysis have a correlation with the structure of cast iron. The introduction of a carbon-containing additive into the composition of the facing mixture led to the formation of a favorable structure of the prototype, characteristic of gray cast iron.
Nuevas especies de la tribu Agrypnini Candèze, 1857 (Coleoptera: Elateridae) de Chile, con notas taxonómicas sobre la validez del género Carlota Arias-Bohart, 2014 y designación del lectotipo de Adelocera vitticollis Fairmaire y Germain, 1860
Authors: Pineda Cristian
Published: August 2021

Se describen e ilustran cuatro nuevas especies de Agrypnini de Chile: Dilobitarsus holomelas sp. nov., D. crassus sp. nov., D. sagittatus sp. nov. y Candanius pehuenche sp. nov. Los ejemplares tipo de Lacon chilensis (Solier, 1851), L. fairmairei (Candèze, 1882) y Dilobitarsus vitticollis (Fairmaire y Germain, 1860) son ilustrados por primera vez. En base a la examinación de este material, el lectotipo y dos paralectotipos de Adelocera vitticollis Fairmaire y Germain, 1860 son designados. Adicionalmente, se aportan nuevos caracteres morfológicos que justifican la sinonimia entre Carlota Arias-Bohart, 2014 y Candanius von Hayek, 1973, y se proporcionan claves actualizadas para el reconocimiento de las especies de Dilobitarsus y Candanius de Chile
Kejahatan Narkotika Pada Masa Pandemi Covid-19 di Kota Kendari
Authors: Sulihin La Ode Muhamad
Published: August 2021

Peredaran gelap dan penyalahgunaan narkotika telah menjangkau seluruh pelosok daerah di Indonesia. Para sindikat menyasar anak dan remaja sebagai tujuan penyalahgunaan narkotika tersebut walaupun saat ini penyelahgunaan narkotika telah merebak kesemua strata sosial masyarakat. Di tengah keresahan bangsa Indonesia karena adanya wabah Covid-19, kejahatan narkotika juga menjadi perhatian karena peningkatan jumlah kasus yang signifikan di beberapa daerah. Melalui tulisan ini, penulis hendak menganalisis fenomena kejahatan peredaran gelap dan penyalahgunaan narkotika di Kota Kendari pada masa pandemi Covid-19 sehingga dapat memberikan sumbangsih pemikiran kepada semua pihak yang terkait dalam melakukan upaya penanggulangan terhadap kejahatan narkotika di kota Kendari. Penelitian ini digolongkan dalam jenis penelitian deskriptif yang berdasarkan fokus kajiannya merupakan penelitian normatif-empiris. Pengumpulan data dengan menggunakan studi kepustakaan. Kasus tindak pidana narkotika yang terjadi di kota Kendari mengalami peningkatan yang serius selama masa pandemi Covid-19. Pada tahun 2019 atau sebelum pandemi Covid-19 melanda sebanyak 36 kasus, akan tetapi selama pandemi Covid-19 melanda, pada tahun 2020 melonjak hingga 102 kasus dan pada tahun 2021 sampai dengan bulan Mei telah terjadi kasus tindak pidana narkotika sebanyak 64 kasus. Pada masa pandemi Covid-19, berdasarkan pengawasan DJBC tren modus operandi yang dilakukan para penyelundup narkotika untuk memasukan narkotika ke Indonesia mengalami perubahan. Tingginya tingkat peredaran dan penyalahgunaan narkotika, tidak terlepas dari faktor penyebabnya, yaitu faktor individu, faktor zat dari narkotika itu sendiri yang dapat mengakibatkan ketergantungan, dan faktor pergaulan di masyarakat.
Deep Gated Recurrent Unit for Smartphone-Based Image Captioning
Authors: KILIÇ Volkan
Published: August 2021

Expressing the visual content of an image in natural language form has gained relevance due to technological and algorithmic advances together with improved computational processing capacity. Many smartphone applications for image captioning have been developed recently as built-in cameras provide advantages of easy-operation and portability, resulting in capturing an image whenever or wherever needed. Here, an encoder-decoder framework based new image captioning approach with a multi-layer gated recurrent unit is proposed. The Inception-v3 convolutional neural network is employed in the encoder due to its capability of more feature extraction from small regions. The proposed recurrent neural network-based decoder utilizes these features in the multi-layer gated recurrent unit to produce a natural language expression word-by-word. Experimental evaluations on the MSCOCO dataset demonstrate that our proposed approach has the advantage over existing approaches consistently across different evaluation metrics. With the integration of the proposed approach to our custom-designed Android application, named “VirtualEye+”, it has great potential to implement image captioning in daily routine.
The Impacts of a Standards-based Grading System Emphasizing Formative Assessment, Feedback, and Re-Assessment: a Mixed Methods, Cluster Randomized Control Trial in Ninth Grade Mathematics Classrooms
Authors: Kramer Steven , Posner Michael A. , Browman Alexander S. , Lawrence Nancy , Krier Kathleen , Roemer Jennifer
Published: August 2021

We investigated the impact in ninth-grade mathematics classrooms of Proficiency-based Assessment and Reassessment of Learning Outcomes (PARLO), a standards-based grading system. Key components of PARLO are basing student final grades on the number of learning outcomes on which the student is high-performance or proficient, providing students with formative feedback, and encouraging students to reassess for full credit after further study. Our mixed-methods study employed a cluster randomized control trial with 2,736 participating ninth graders at 14 Treatment and 15 Control schools. Data included student achievement tests, interviews with 35 teachers, and student surveys. The program improved student performance on end-of-course algebra and geometry tests by a statistically significant 0.33 SD but did not impact students’ value of or expectancies for success in mathematics. However, treatment effects on mathematics performance were moderated by these psychological antecedents of motivation, such that students with higher math expectancies and value benefited more from the treatment. Furthermore, teacher interviews suggested that PARLO may have also had positive effects on growth mindsets, mastery goals, autonomy, and relatedness.
On the Chany Lake Level Fluctuations Simulation for the Purpose of its Hydrological Regime Control
Authors:   Bolgov M.V., Korobkina Y.A.
Published: August 2021

The possibility of probabilistic forecast of the Lake Chany water level on the basis of stochastic models of the runoff, precipitation, and evaporation has been considered. The evaluations of parameters of distributions of water levels in the lake have been obtained by simulation experiment method for two case: before and after separation of the part of the water area due to dam building.
Agricultural Activities in the Kama River Basin and its Part in the Surface Waters Quality Formation
Authors:   Fyodorova Y.V., Shchipachyova L.A., Karpunina O.P., Maksimchuk N.S.
Published: August 2021

Some issues of the determination of agriculture-induced nutrient load upon watercourses including nitrogen and phosphorous carryover from agricultural lands, as well as the said elements accumulation on the catchment area due to cattle-breeding development have been considered with the Kama River basin as a study case. Measures on mitigation of this load upon watercourses have been proposed.
Upgrading of the Hazardous Floods Monitoring System at the Rivers of the Northern Caucasia
Authors:   Yumina N.M., Rets Y.P.
Published: August 2021

The article presents principles and recommendations on upgrading of the high floods monitoring system. The task of optimization of the hydrometric observation network in order to arrange the hazardous floods warning system on the rivers of the Kuban and Terek basins has been solved; two options have been developed (the minimal program permits to get a detailed enough picture of water movement within the river network with minimal means, whereas the maximal program enables to get practically exhausting information on the water movement within the river network in the basins under study). Methods of short-term forecast of the runoff fluctuations have been developed for different parts of the basins under study on the basis of the corresponding levels method.
The Transbaikalia Rivers’ Many-year Runoff Regime: Analysis and Background Forecast.
Authors:   Obyazov V.A., Smakhtin V.K.
Published: August 2021

Long-term changes of the river runoff in Transbaikalia have been discussed. The runoff fluctuations are cyclic by character and depend upon many-year changes of atmospheric precipitations. Prolonged trends of the runoff increase or decrease have not been revealed. According to the forecast, the runoff exceeding the standard value will dominate till 2021–2023.
Application of Smart Artifi cial Neural Networks for Forecasting of the Irrigation Water Chemical Indicators (the Inguletsk Long-distance Channel as a Study Case)
Authors:   Pichura V.I.
Published: August 2021

Assessment and water quality change forecast have been made for the Kherson Oblast Inguletsk irrigation system and for the current conditions of its formation. For the first time artificial neural networks have been developed and used for forecasting of the irrigation water hydro/chemical regime transient processes with the Inguletsk long-distance channel as an example. The neural networks learning algorithm parameters’ optimal values have been determined and further hydro/chemical regime formation conditions for the Inguletsk channel have been forecasted.
On the Issue of Assessment of Many-year Variability of the High Water Runoff of the South-Eastern Altay Rivers under the Conditions of Contemporary Glaciations (the Chuya River Basin as a Study Case)
Authors:   Klimenko D.E.
Published: August 2021

The article is devoted to investigation of the contemporary glaciations’ influence on many-year variability of the spring-summer high water periods runoff characteristics. The issues of glaciers’ influence of the mountain river runoff are poorly studied; nowadays there is no unified vision of the glaciers’ impact on the high water maximal runoff. Regional dependencies of the high water runoff layer and its variation factors on the glaciations fraction and catchment height; data on water content cycles and phases can be used in calculations of any poorly studied rivers’ runoff.
Upgrading of the Financial Provision Forms for Indemnification of any Harm Done to Water Bodies due to Water Legislation Infringements
Authors:   Krutikova K.V., Merzlikina Y.B., Tyutkov O.V.
Published: August 2021

The article considers directions of development of the indemnification mechanisms for water bodies damaged due to any water legislation infringements. The necessity of legislative fixation of the indemnification procedure as well as the necessity of introduction of new forms of the indemnification financial provision have been assessed.
Yakutsk Water Agglomeration at the Lena River – Channel Processes Problems: History, Current State, Prospect, and Possibilities of Control
Authors:   Chalov R.S., Kirik O.M., Ilyasov A.K., Botavin D.V.
Published: August 2021

The paper presents results of the analysis of the Lena River channel deformations near the Yakutsk City over the period exceeding the past 100 years. The data presented enables to conclude that the main trend of the channel development over that period has been a transformation of the adjoint braids pattern into the parallel arms pattern accompanied with directed migration of the main flow line towards the right valley side along the entire studied reach. Such a tendency of channel evolution creates an unfavorable situation for operations of the Yakutsk water industry and transportation facilities. The paper also gives a predictive assessment of the future channel deformations and proposes a set of channel regulation measures aimed at improving the situation.
Statistic Functions of the Surface Water Bodies’ Water Quality Hydrochemical Indicators Distribution
Authors:   Lepikhin A.P., Voznyak A.A.
Published: August 2021

Water quality chemical indicators functions’ distribution formation mechanism has been discussed. It has been demonstrated that the water quality indicators’distribution variability is characterized by considerable asymmetry and it cannot be approximated by normal distribution, excluding dissolved oxygen, hydrogen carbonates, and silicon. A pattern for water quality point indicators calculation construction on the basis of water bodies’ water quality regular hydro-chemical monitoring data has been proposed.
Limitation of the Reservoirs’ Water Level Alteration Rate in Hydro Electric Power Stations Operational Mode Control in Accordance with Safety Rules for Water Work Facilities
Authors:   Aleksandrovskiy A.Y., Khasyanov S.V.
Published: August 2021

The impact of the reservoir water level alterations rate limitation upon its operational mode has been studied. These limitations impact upon the hydro electric power station performance has been assessed. It has been proposed to take into consideration the level alteration rate in water/economic and water/power production calculations.
Physical Processes and Regularities Concerning the Volga River Basin Rivers Winter and Spring Runoff Formation in the Conditions of Climate Change
Authors:   Lavrov S.A., Kalyuzhniy I.L.
Published: August 2021

On the basis of the years-long observations summing-up a mechanism of the climate change impact on the Volga basin rivers winter and spring runoff has been revealed. It has been stated that the major factors affecting the winter rivers’ runoff increase over the past decades are the following: average daily air temperature increase; frost penetration into soil and winter moisture migration to the frosty penetration front decrease; increase of fall runoff; as well as increase of the winter thaws number.
Peculiarities of the Upper Amu Darya Basin Rivers Zonal Runoff in Lowwater and High-water Years
Authors:   Trubetskova M.D.
Published: August 2021

Some peculiarities of the rivers’zonal runoff during high-water and low-water years for homogeneous hydrologic regions of the upper Amu Darya River basin have been studied. By solving the ill-posed inverse problem, the values of the zonal runoff for spring and summer periods were estimated for the selected years with high and low water. Glacial component is shown to play a larger role in the runoff during low flow years.
On the Matter of Reservoirs’ Liquidation and Successive Reclamation of their Bed and Coastal Stripe. Statement 2. Main Regularities of Small Reservoirs and Ponds Silting. Water/physical and Agro/chemical Properties of their Bottom Sediments
Authors:   Popov A.N., Shtykov V.I.
Published: August 2021

The main regularities of the reservoirs’ silting process have been considered, its peculiarities specific for small and medium-sized water bodies have been outlined as well as main processes of the bottom sediments composition formation and their water/physical and agro/chemical properties.
Tritium Transport to the Earth Surface with Rainfall
Authors:   Chebotina M.Y., Nikolin O.A., Murashova Y.L.
Published: August 2021

Data on tritium concentration dynamics in rainfall in the zone of PO “Mayak”, the Beloyarka Nuclear Power Station area and reference territories have been given. It has been stated that the radionuclide content in the rainfall in the areas of nuclear enterprises location can vary within the range of 3–4 orders of magnitude and substantially exceed the reference indicators and technogenic background level. The obtained information is essential for forecasting of the radionuclide supply scale from aerosol exhausts of nuclear power enterprises to the earth surface and pollution of water and air environment within domestic and production facilities.
Ecological Situation in Mineral Water Sources of the Sunzha Gully (Ingushetia)
Authors:   Ozdoyev S.-K.
Published: August 2021

Physical specific features and chemical composition of Sunzha Gully mineral water sources have been studied.
On Enhancement of Effectiveness of the Russian-Chinese Monitoring of the Argun (Khailar) River Water Quality
Authors:   Zaslonovskiy V.N., Sharapov N.M.
Published: August 2021

The paper analyses the runoff formation conditions and the water qualitative composition of the transboundary Argun (Khailar) River at its section coinisiding with the state border of the Russian Federation with taking into account both natural conditions and economic activity in this basin on the Russian territory plus the same for the near-boundary zone of the neighboring state (as an estimation). The authors gave reasons for localization of the joint sampling sites in order to enhance effectiveness of monitoring and development of measures aimed at the river water quality improvement.
On the Matter of Reservoirs’ Liquidation and Successive Reclamation of their Bed and Coastal Stripe. Statement 3. Methodological Approaches to Assessment of Bottom Sediments Water Erosion at the Bed of Drained Reservoirs
Authors:   Popov A.N., Shtykov V.I.
Published: August 2021

The main factors affecting the bottom sediments erosion intensity and methodological approaches to assessment of its intensity have been considered. Actions on its reduction or liquidation have been recommended.
“Você é cantor, mas vive do quê?”
Authors: Braga Leila Claudia Monteiro de Castro dos Santos , Schütz Gabriel Eduardo
Published: August 2021

Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa, realizada com discentes e docentes de cursos de bacharelado em música (habilitação canto) em duas instituições públicas de ensino, através da aplicação de entrevistas e observação participante. As falas transcritas foram analisadas na modalidade da Teoria Fundamentada. Conclui-se que aspectos como a fetichização do cantor e a multiatividade são alguns dos mais relevantes no processo de invisibilização social do cantor trabalhador e, ainda, sobre como esta invisibilização social determina perdas na qualidade de vida, manifestada em forma de frustração, perda da autoestima, estresse, instabilidade econômica, informalidade, precarização laboral e sobrecarga de trabalho para realizar sua performance artística (o canto) de um lado, e obter os meios de subsistência por outro.
Aktualisasi Nilai Hirs dan Amanah terhadap Perilaku Mahasiswa PGMI Fakultas Tarbiyah IPMAFA
Authors: Hariroh Ulya
Published: August 2021

Nilai Dasar Shalih Akram (NDSA) merupakan nilai-nilai pesantren yang menjadi landasan pengembangan bagi Institut Pesantren Mathali’ul Falah (IPMAFA) Pati. NDSA dengan 9 nilai + 1 harus diaktualisasikan dalam kehidupan kampus, termasuk bagi mahasiswa. Penelitian ini bertujuan menjelaskan bagaimana aktualisasi nilai Hirs  dan Amanah (bagian dari NDSA) terhadap perilaku mahasiswa PGMI Fakultas Tarbiyah IPMAFA. Penelitian diskriptif dengan pendekatan kualitatif ini menggunakan wawancara mendalam, dokumentasi, dan penelusuran online untuk mengumpulkan data. Selanjutnya dilakukan analisis interaktif dengna teorinya Miles dan Huberman. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa aktualisasi nilai hirs dan amanah dalam konsep NDSA terhadap perilaku mahasiswa PGMI Fakultas Tarbiyah IPMAFA sudah diupayakan dengan ikhtiyar dari berbagai pihak. Adapun langkah-langkah aktualisasinya yakni dengan adanya keteladanan, kedisplinan, pembiasaan, serta program integrasi dan internalisasi.
Pengembangan Buku Ajar Bahasa Inggris Kelas 3 MI/SD Berbasis Islami
Authors: Afrida Fira Nadliratul
Published: August 2021

Pengembangan buku ajar menjadi salah satu faktor utama dalam keberhasilan pembelajaran, Buku ajar bahasa inggris berbasis islami ini mempunyai ciri khas yaitu materi berbasis kontekstual dan keislaman yang dilengkapi dengan 4 aspek keterampilan berbahasa. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengembangkan buku ajar bahasa inggris berbasis islami dan meneliti validitas serta kemenarikan buku ajar yang dikembangkan. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah penelitian dan pengembangan dengan menggunakan desain Borg & Gall. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa pengembangan buku ajar bahasa inggris memperoleh kualifikasi yang baik, dibuktikan dengan hasil validasi oleh ahli materi dengan persentase 80%, ahli desain dengan persentase 92%, guru kelas dengan persentase 94%. Buku ajar memiliki tingkat kemenarikan yang tinggii dibuktikan dengan hasil wawancara dan angket kepada peserta didik dengan presentase 90,04%, Sehingga buku ajar telah memenuhi aspek-aspek dalam pengembangan & kebutuhan dalam proses pelaksanaan pembelajaran.
THE FINDING OF THE INVASIVE AMPHIPOD GMELINOIDES FASCIATUS (STEBBING, 1899) IN WATERCOURSES OF THE ONEGA LAKE BASIN
Authors: Baryshev I. A.
Published: August 2021

The invasive amphipod Gmelinoides fasciatus (Stebbing, 1899) was not previously recorded in the rivers of the Onega Lake basin, although it has spread widely in its littoral in recent years. In 2019 and 2020, this species was found to inhabit the estuarine zones of watercourses (the Rybreka River and the Drugaya River) at a considerable distance from the lacustrine littoral zone (0.5 and 1.7 km, respectively). It was revealed that G. fasciatus is included in the communities of both pools and riffles, and in some areas reaches dominant positions in the macrozoobenthos, which indicates the possibility of further expansion of its range due to the river ecosystems of the region.
A 3.5-THz, x6-Harmonic, Single-Ended Schottky Diode Mixer for Frequency Stabilization of Quantum-Cascade Lasers
Authors: Jayasankar Divya , Drakinskiy Vladimir , rothbart nick , Richter Heiko , Lü Xiang , Schrottke Lutz , Grahn Holger T. , Wienold Martin , Hübers Heinz-Wilhelm , Sobis Peter , Stake Jan
Published: August 2021

Efficient and compact frequency converters are essential for frequency stabilization of terahertz sources. In this paper, we present a 3.5-THz, x6-harmonic, integrated Schottky diode mixer operating at room temperature. The designed frequency converter is based on a single-ended, planar Schottky diode with a sub-micron anode contact area defined on a suspended 2-um ultra-thin GaAs substrate. The dc-grounded anode pad was combined with the radio frequency E-plane probe, which resulted in an electrically compact circuit. At 200 MHz intermediate frequency, a mixer conversion loss of about 59 dB is measured resulting in a 40 dB signal-to-noise ratio in a phase-locking application. Using a quasi-static diode model combined with electromagnetic simulations, good agreement with the measured results was obtained. Harmonic frequency converters without the need of cryogenic cooling will help in the realization of highly sensitive space and air-borne heterodyne receivers.
Venezuela
Authors: Guerrero Modesto Emilio
Published: August 2021

Hugo Chávez se refirió a las Comunas como las bases de la nueva República Bolivariana, el sostén del gobierno y la medida que garantizaba el cambio de naturaleza del Estado, de capitalista a anti capitalista. Sin embargo, las acciones del gobierno de Maduro muestran una tendencia acelerada a revertir y frenar las medidas anti capitalistas para reconsolidar el Estado burgués y asegurar la supervivencia de una nueva burguesía surgida. Maduro quisiera pactar para sobrevivir, pero no puede hacerlo. Por lo tanto, el gobierno avanza con políticas de entrega en un plan aperturista. Para comprender esos retrocesos y tendencias en Venezuela, debemos revisar y repasar que fueron, que son y hacia donde van las Comunas. Eso nos proponemos en el siguiente escrito.
Chile
Authors: Torres Carlos A.
Published: August 2021

Analiza la crisis neoliberal precipitada en Chile y su pérdida de legitimidad a partir de octubre 2019 cuando los movimientos sociales irrumpen en las calles interpelando al sistema político en su conjunto. Aborda las contradicciones entre movimientos sociales y partidos políticos tradicionales y el desarrollo de una nueva cultura política. Examina el proceso de la Convención Constitucional, su conformación y proyección histórica para superar la constitución legada por Pinochet. Y la participación de los pueblos indígenas y la paridad de género. Evalúa la sistemática violación de Derechos Humanos durante la rebelión social y el rol del Presiente Sebastián Piñera al respecto. Explora la próxima elección presidencial y la perspectiva de la elección de un gobierno de izquierda moderada o del centro político.
THE IMPORTANCE OF BILINGUALISM IN THE PRIMARY CLASSROOM
Authors:   Middlesex University, London, United Kingdom, Kulenovic Edina
Published: August 2021

The main purpose of this study was to give account of the importance of early bilingualism in the primary classroom and to ascertain if being bilingual from an early age is an advantage or a hindrance. In the context researched here (Primary school teachers and Primary trainee teachers in England), the paper seeks to determine how early bilingualism has influenced the respondents’ education, career choices and overall learning and teaching experience at school. Action research was used in this study. The key findings concluded that early bilingualism has impacted positively on the respondents’ education and life choices and that being bilingual from an early age is an advantage. On the other hand, there are some negative influences,but they are outweighed by the benefits that knowledge of home languages bring. It is hoped thatthis study will encourage primary teachers, trainee teachers and parents to look at bilingualism as an opportunity and utilise bilingual learners’ linguistic and cultural knowledge in order to create an environment where students and teachers have the opportunity to learn and develop together.
MOOCS FOR BRIDGING THE SCHOOL - UNIVERSITY GAP
Authors:   Federica Web Learning, Centre for Innovation, Experimentation and Diffusion of Multimedia Learning, University of Naples Federico II, Italy, Merciai Ilaria , Kerr Ruth ,   Federica Web Learning, Centre for Innovation, Experimentation and Diffusion of Multimedia Learning, University of Naples Federico II, Italy, Melchionna Gaetana ,   Federica Web Learning, Centre for Innovation, Experimentation and Diffusion of Multimedia Learning, University of Naples Federico II, Italy
Published: August 2021

This chapter presents an update of the MOOC orientation strategy implemented by Federica Web Learning, Centre for Innovation, Experimentation and Diffusion of Multimedia learning at the University of Naples, Federico II since January 2019 and already published in the same year. A solid orientation strategy is designed to support students in their university choice and prepare them for the intellectual demands of university life and study. According to OECD, graduate numbers in Italy increased in 2019 from 20% to 28%(25-34 age range), and Italy has high numbers of post-graduate degree holders. However, overall graduate numbers are still relatively low compared to other European member states and dropout rates continue to be high, as do the numbers of students changing degree course after one or two years of study. In line with the updated DEAP, Digital Education Action Plan (2021-2027), and Italian Ministerial recommendations, the Federica MOOC-based orientation strategy explores ways of bridging the gap between school and university in a 3-pronged approach designed to address students’ choice of degree subject and university; preparation for university entrance exams and difficult modules; and last but not least, raising student self-awareness to help them adapt to change as they shape their future.