bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Fintech Adoption on Sustainable Performance via mediation role of Green Finance and Green Innovation
Authors: Alsadoun Mohanad , Alrobai Fahad
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the interrelationships between fintech adoption, green finance, green innovation, and sustainable performance within the financial sector of the United States. A crosssectional research design was employed, and data were collected from 398 entry-level and managerial-level employees. Convenience sampling was utilized to gather a diverse representation of participants working across various roles within financial organizations. Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling was employed for data analysis. The findings reveal significant positive relationships between fintech adoption, green finance, green innovation, and sustainable performance, underscoring the transformative potential of fintech in driving sustainability initiatives within the financial sector. Specifically, fintech adoption positively influences both green finance and green innovation, while green finance and green innovation independently contribute to sustainable performance. Moreover, fintech adoption indirectly impacts sustainable performance through its effects on green finance and green innovation, highlighting the interconnectedness of these constructs in driving organizational sustainability. The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers, financial institutions, businesses, innovators, and sustainability practitioners seeking to leverage fintech and innovation to promote sustainable development and enhance organizational performance within the financial sector.
EXPLAINING THE CORRELATES OF CHILD’S MULTIDIMENSIONAL POVERTY IN SOUTH AFRICA USING THE ALKIRE-FOSTER APPROACH
Authors: Charity Molelekoa Thonaeng , Samuel Oyekale Abayomi
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this paper is to show the importance of the development of institutions and the institutional environment in a globalized world. The methodology used to measure the quality of institutions are components of the World Governance Indicators Database developed by Kaufmann, Kraay and Mastruzzi (2010) where we performed a comparative analysis of the quality of institutions for three samples of countries, the countries of Southeast Europe (countries of the region), the newest members of the EU and the countries of Central Europe and the Baltic States. After that, we showed the degree of correlation between economic development measured by GDP per capita in purchasing power parity and each of the six indicators of the quality of institutions. The results show that the countries of the region lag significantly behind the countries we call New Europe (Central Europe and the Baltics), but also lag behind the youngest members of the European Union in terms of the quality of institutions, i.e. the rules of the game. When it comes to correlation between economic development and institutional environment, for all 6 indicators of instituional environment, a strong and positive correlation was shown, especially between the rule of law and economic development. The conclusion is that the countries of the region must strengthen the rule of law, fight against institutional corruption, ensure political stability so that the economic standard of their citizens could improve.
Controlled pulse generation and annihilation dynamics in ultrafast fiber lasers
Authors: Zhou Rui , Li Yang , Zhu Run-Hui , Zhang Zu-Xing ,   School of Electronic and Optical Engineering, School of Flexible Electronics (Future Technology), Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210023, China
Published: August 2024

In this paper, the mode-locked pulse generation and annihilation dynamics in ultrafast fiber lasers based on pump intensity modulation are investigated by using real-time Fourier transform spectral probing. The results show that the laser outputs stable mode-locked pulses when the pump modulation voltage is at a high level. As the modulation voltage jumps to a low level, the intensity of the mode-locked pulse decreases, and then undergoes a period of decaying oscillation before annihilation occurs, and after ~5 μs the soliton is reconstructed from the noise, accompanied by the generation of the Q-modulation instability. In the low-level phase, the annihilation process in the laser cavity occurs continuously with a period of ~55 μs. By changing the duty cycle of the modulation pump, it is possible to control the the number of times solitons continuously annihilate under low-level modulation. Further, the continuous switching process of mode-locking and soliton annihilation is related to the modulation frequency of the pump, and the increase of the modulation frequency can effectively shorten the duration of the two states, thus reducing the number of soliton annihilations. In addition, by reducing the value of the low level, the gain in the laser cavity can be reduced, resulting in a shorter period of successive soliton annihilation. The results of the study are conducive to an in-depth understanding of the formation and annihilation dynamics of solitons, and provide new perspectives for developing various operation mechanisms of ultrafast lasers.
Modeling of temperature effect on DC characteristics of microwave GaN devices
Authors: Wang Shuai , Ge Chen , Xu Zu-Yin , Cheng Ai-Qiang , Chen Dun-Jun ,   School of Electronic Science and Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210033, China,   Nanjing Electronic Devices Institute, Nanjing 210016, China
Published: August 2024

Due to the advantages of high power density, high efficiency, and great potential in extreme temperature environments, the GaN high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) device is widely used in circuit systems at high or low temperatures. However, its electrical performance is sensitive to the ambient temperature. Therefore, it is essential to build a model that can accurately characterize the electrical performance of GaN HEMTs at different ambient temperatures, which is also essential for precise circuit design. With the analysis of experiment and theory on the GaN HEMT at different ambient temperatures, an improved model for temperature effect on the DC characteristics of the GaN HEMT is proposed based on EEHEMT model. Considering the influence of the ambient temperature on electrical properties of the GaN HEMT, such as the threshold voltage, the knee voltage, and the saturated current, the model establishes a temperature-dependent function for key parameters in the formula of the drain-source current. Through Verilog-A implementation and simulation on the ICCAP software, the improved model accurately reflects the trend of the electrical performance changes of the GaN HEMT at different ambient temperatures. To further verify the model in this work, the on-wafer measurements at different temperatures including –55, –25, 25 and 75 ℃ are carried out for GaN HEMTs with different sizes, which are developed by Nanjing Electronic Devices Institute. Compared with the measured data, the output characteristics and the transfer characteristics simulated by the proposed model are accurate in an ambient temperature range of –55–75 ℃, with a relative fitting error less than 5%. The result shows that the improved model is of guiding significance in analyzing the direct current performance and high reliability design of circuits at different temperatures.
Intraspecific predator interference promotes biodiversity in ecosystems
Authors: Kang Ju , Zhang Shijie , Niu Yiyuan , Zhong Fan , Wang Xin
Published: August 2024

Explaining biodiversity is a fundamental issue in ecology. A long-standing puzzle lies in the paradox of the plankton: many species of plankton feeding on a limited variety of resources coexist, apparently flouting the competitive exclusion principle (CEP), which holds that the number of predator (consumer) species cannot exceed that of the resources at a steady state. Here, we present a mechanistic model and demonstrate that intraspecific interference among the consumers enables a plethora of consumer species to coexist at constant population densities with only one or a handful of resource species. This facilitated biodiversity is resistant to stochasticity, either with the stochastic simulation algorithm or individual-based modeling. Our model naturally explains the classical experiments that invalidate the CEP, quantitatively illustrates the universal S-shaped pattern of the rank-abundance curves across a wide range of ecological communities, and can be broadly used to resolve the mystery of biodiversity in many natural ecosystems.
A multiscale model of striatum microcircuit dynamics
Authors: Tesler Federico , Kozlov Alexander , Grillner Sten , Destexhe Alain
Published: August 2024

The striatum is the largest structure in the basal ganglia, and is known for its key role in functions such as learning and motor control. Studying these aspects requires investigating cellular/microcircuits mechanisms, in particular related to learning, and how these small-scale mechanisms affect large-scale behavior, and its interactions with other structures, such as the cerebral cortex. In this paper, we provide a multiscale approach to investigate these aspects. We first investigate striatum dynamics using spiking networks, and derive a mean-field model that captures these dynamics. We start with a brief introduction to the microcircuit of the striatum and we describe, step by step, the construction of a spiking network model, and its mean-field, for this area. The models include explicitly the different cell types and their intrinsic electrophysiological properties, and the synaptic receptors implicated in their recurrent interactions. Then we test the mean-field model by analyzing the response of the striatum network to the main brain rhythms observed experimentally, and compare this response to that predicted by the mean-field. We next study the effects of dopamine, a key neuromodulator in the basal ganglia, on striatal neurons. Integrating dopamine receptors in the spiking network model leads to emerging dynamics, which are also seen in the mean-field model. Finally, we introduce a basic implementation of reinforcement learning (one of the main known functions of the basal-ganglia) using the mean-field model of the striatum microcircuit. In conclusion, we provide a multiscale study of the striatum microcircuits and mean-field, that capture its response to periodic inputs, the effect of dopamine and can be used in reinforcement learning paradigms. Given that several mean-field models have been previously proposed for the cerebral cortex, the mean-field model presented here should be a key tool to investigate large-scale interactions between basal ganglia and cerebral cortex, for example in motor learning paradigms, and to integrate it in large scale and whole-brain simulations.
Musical Literacy Development: The Case of Qin Zheng Playing Techniques of Zhou Wang
Authors: Fanbo Li , Thotham Awirut
Published: August 2024

The Qin Zheng, an ancient Chinese musical instrument, embodies centuries of cultural heritage and artistic expression. Amidst its strings, melodies resonate with stories of ancient China, reflecting the country’s rich history and cultural identity. The objective of this study is to analyze the Qin Zheng playing techniques of Zhou Wang in musical literacy development. The research investigates Zhou Wang’s historical development, pedagogical approach, and playing techniques through a qualitative analysis. The study focuses on the Xi’an Conservatory of Music as the primary research site, where Zhou Wang has taught and mentored students for over three decades. Key informants include Zhou Wang herself, her students, and colleagues in the field of Chinese musical education. Data analysis involves structured interviews, observations of performances and teaching sessions, and transcription of musical examples. The findings reveal Zhou Wang’s mastery of Qin Zheng techniques, including intricate right-hand and left-hand skills, and their significance in fostering musical literacy development. The study highlights the potential benefits of integrating music education, particularly traditional Chinese music like Qin Zheng, into curricula as a means to enrich students’ language skills, cognitive abilities, and emotional intelligence.
The Transmission and Literacy Role of Cultural Memory of Traditional Houses in the Context of Rural Revitalization
Authors: Peng Bao , Sirisuk Metta
Published: August 2024

This research is part of the “Ancient Xuzhou Houses in China: Cultural Memory, Symbol and Process Reconstruction in the Context of Rural Revitalization” project. Traditional houses contain a large amount of cultural value, literacy role, and historical memory. In order to sort out the transfer process more clearly between memory and people, this study set three research objectives. First, spatial memory transmission and literacy role needs to be studied and analyzed. Then, on this basis, we will further study the method of spatial memory transmission and literacy role. Finally, the appropriate medium for spatial memory transmission is analyzed. This study used descriptive analysis to summarize and discuss the results. The results show that spatial memory transmission and literacy is a process of maintaining and transmitting social and cultural values through the use and evolution of architecture and spatial design over time. Symbols in the memory space of residential buildings are containers for storing memories, just like a mobile hard drive that records relevant memory information. Residential buildings and people are like two devices that convey information and communicate through symbols. After comparison, in the dimension of cultural memory, symbols are more social and cultural and are more suitable as a medium for transmitting spatial memory and literacy role under cultural identity. This article explains the relationship between symbols and spatial memory, through spatial memory transmission to describe how common memories are shared and reproduced among collective members through cultural memory, literacy role and symbolic translation. It can transmit cultural and historical memories between different generations and acquires the importance of spatial positioning and environmental interaction in transmitting cultural memory.
Critical Thinking Dispositions of Undergraduate Art Education and History Students
Authors: Basak Rasim , Yucel Eda
Published: August 2024

In an ever-changing world, we have been witnessing many developments in our lives. A way to keep up with these developments will be possible through necessary skills such as critical thinking. In the literature, art education is suggested specifically as a contributor for creative skill development and critical thinking skills. The objective of this study was to examine and evaluate students’ critical thinking skills based on undergraduate subject area of study. Accordingly, students’ critical thinking skills were examined within critical thinking sub-dimensions in addition to variables of gender, age, and year of study. The sample groups consisted of undergraduate freshman and senior students studying Art Education and History. The study was structured according to the relational screening model, and the Cornell Critical Thinking Test Level Z (CCTT-Z) was used to measure critical thinking skills. Results of the study revealed that, critical thinking skill levels of the students were low in both cohorts and there was no statistically significant difference according to study areas. The results also showed no meaningful difference in critical thinking skills of freshman and senior students within the group who are studying Art Education. Similarly, demographics such as gender and year of study made no particular difference in terms of students’ critical thinking scores. The cohort of 25-30 age group showed a relatively positive difference in terms of age variable as compared to other cohorts. It was concluded that critical thinking skills could be supported by means of designing a curriculum that encourages and develops critical thinking skills and creative thinking through specific educational strategies.
Education and Literacy Impact of Excellence Quality Management on Innovative Organizations in Basic Schools under Nonthaburi Provincial Administrative Organization, Thailand
Authors: Santaveesuk Piyapun , Onsampant Samrerng , Sokuma Kasinee
Published: August 2024

The objectives of this study were to study (i) the excellence in quality management of basic schools in the Nonthaburi Provincial Administrative Organization, (ii) the innovative organization of basic schools at the Nonthaburi Provincial Administrative Organization, and (iii) the excellence in quality management affecting the innovative organization of primary schools under the Nonthaburi Provincial Administrative Organization. The study involved 240 participants, encompassing administrators, heads of learning groups, and teachers. The research instrument utilized was a questionnaire, and statistical analyses such as frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and stepwise multiple regression analysis were employed to analyze the collected data. Findings reveal significant insights: The study highlights a high level of practice in excellent quality management in basic schools, ranking in descending order as follows: student and stakeholder focus, performance results, strategic planning, faculty, and staff focus, measurement, analysis and knowledge management, process management, and leadership. The innovative organization of basic schools encourages high-level ranking in descending order: key individual, appropriate organizational structure, creative raising climate, effective teamwork, long-term stability, boundary spanning and learning exchange, high-involvement innovation, shared vision, and intention to create innovation. The study excellence quality management five variables: performance results, leadership strategic planning, process management staff focus that affected the innovation organization of primary schools under the Nonthaburi Provincial Administrative Organization, totaling 84.70 percent, written as a regression analysis equation as follows Ytot= 0.080 + 0.269X7 +0.091X1 + 0.231X6 + 0.164X2 + 0.133X5.
Error Analysis of English Narrative Essays of Secondary School Learners in Kirinyaga Central Sub-County, Kenya
Authors: Kangangi Beth Muthoni , Ndung’u Catherine Waithera , Mwangi Peter Kinyanjui
Published: August 2024

The study examined the types of language errors made by learners in the English narrative essays. It also assessed the feedback techniques employed by teachers of English in the handling of language errors in the English narrative essays. A descriptive research design was employed to examine errors of English narrative essays of 181 form two learners obtained through stratified random sampling and simple random sampling techniques. The eight teachers of English selected through purposive and simple random sampling completed interview schedules. Qualitative data generated from the essays of the learners was analyzed using Error Analysis and Content Analysis. The findings reveal that a total of seven categories of language errors which include: word order, verb tense and form, subject – verb agreement, spelling, plurality, word choice, and capital letter errors were made by the learners in their English narrative essays. The most preferred corrective technique was to involve the learners actively by encouraging them to read extensively and write severally on various narratives in the target language. The findings will provide reliable feedback to teachers of English because it will guide on the development of teaching methods and evaluative measures to narrative essays. The study will also be useful to curriculum developers in designing materials for teaching English language in secondary schools. It will also be of invaluable benefit to learners of English as it will guide on the way narrative essays need to be written.
Promoting Education and Literacy through the Preservation of Yongning River Boatman Work Songs
Authors: Wang Wenxing , Woramitmaitree Narongruch
Published: August 2024

Yongning River Boatman Work Songs are traditional folk music from the Yongning River region, performed by boatmen for practical purposes during laborious tasks. The study’s objective is to investigate the promotion of education and literacy through the preservation of the Yongning River Boatman Work Song. Three key informants, including an inheritor of intangible cultural heritage, an academic expert, and a cultural heritage preservationist, provide comprehensive insights into this multifaceted topic. Data was analyzed thematically using a mixed-methods approach, including in-depth interviews, document analysis, and observations. The findings highlight the transformative power of these songs as educational tools, bridging the past and present, fostering cultural identity, and enabling multifaceted learning. Additionally, community collaboration among local individuals, cultural centers, educational institutions, and government authorities plays a pivotal role in preserving and promoting these songs. Successful initiatives for engaging the younger generation ensure the intergenerational transmission of this cultural heritage. This research suggests that cultural preservation, education, and community involvement are intertwined elements that can enrich education and enhance literacy while safeguarding intangible cultural heritage.
Guidelines for Literacy Transmission and Preservation of Bayu Folk Songs
Authors: Gong Yonghong , Jirajarupat Phakamas , Zhang Yinghua
Published: August 2024

Bayu folk songs, integral to the cultural heritage of Southwest China, face challenges in transmission and preservation amidst rapid social and technological changes. This study aims to investigate and propose guidelines for literacy transmission and preservation of Bayu folk songs. Drawing upon ethnomusicological research and the intersection of education and cultural preservation, the study explores the cultural significance, diversity, integration, and challenges in transmitting Bayu folk songs. Methodologically, 14 key informants were selected from the Chongqing, Guizhou, and Hunan regions, including inheritors of folk songs, local villagers, leaders of cultural centers, and relevant experts. Data were gathered through interviews and observation forms and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results highlight the profound cultural significance of Bayu folk songs, the rich diversity and integration within Bayu culture, and the challenges in transmission within educational settings. The study suggests developing standardized guidelines, curriculum frameworks, and capacity-building initiatives to ensure the successful transmission and preservation of Bayu folk songs within educational contexts, enriching students’ learning experiences and promoting cultural heritage preservation.
The Art of Chinese Calligraphy: Educational Protection and Literacy Study of Cultural Heritage
Authors: Cao Hengyuan , Champadaeng Sitthisak
Published: August 2024

Chinese traditional calligraphy is an important part of Chinese culture, with rich cultural value, historical value, artistic value and educational value. Traditional calligraphy art has shown new characteristics in the current era. This research objectives are: 1) to study the historical development and cultural value of Chinese calligraphy; 2) to analyze the current situation and issues of Chinese calligraphy; 3) to identify the way in which inheritance and literacy of Chinese calligraphy art can be protected. This research adopts qualitative methods, collecting field data through literature document, surveys, interviews, observations, and group discussions. Our results summarize the multiple eras through which the historical development of Chinese calligraphy took place. Our study focused on the content and artistic styles of Chinese calligraphy, categorizing its development into four periods; namely (i) Primitive Society to 2070 BC, which is characterized by pictographic writing and primitive symbols. (ii) 2070 BC to 221 BC, the period of formation of written characters and invention of the writing brush and ink, (iii) 221 BC to 589 AD, characterized by the standardization of Xiaozhuan and the invention of papermaking, and (iv) 589 AD to 1905 AD characterized by development and refinement of the five script styles influenced by the imperial examination system. Our results also depict the current situation and problems of Chinese calligraphy and the problems it faces. Finally, the results also show the multiple ways in which Chinese calligraphy could be preserved. As an excellent cultural heritage, traditional Chinese calligraphy art will shine with new light in modern society.
An Analysis of Environmental Education in Indonesian EFL Elementary School Textbooks
Authors: Gavilan Tatin Ingrid A. , Triyono Sulis , Jacobs George M. , Trett Sara , Soeta Bangsa Aditya A. , Zhu Chenghao
Published: August 2024

The worsening global environmental crisis highlights the urgency of integrating Environmental Education (EE) throughout the curriculum including in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) curricula. However, challenges exist, such as the development of appropriate curriculum documents and educators’ understanding of approaches to EE. This study looked at Indonesian EFL textbooks for elementary schools, focusing mainly on the images and how they can portray environmental themes. These images and some brief texts that accompany the images were examined using tools from ecolinguistics literature, including Stibbe’s (2021) nine stories and the United Nations’ EE objectives (UNESCO-UNEP, 1975). This study intends to fill a gap in the EE literature by analyzing images in elementary school textbooks in the specific context of Indonesia, generalizing the idea of EE to other contexts. Findings revealed that while some EE efforts were evident, the majority of the material leaned towards an anthropocentric (human centered) perspective, indicating a need for greater incorporation of insights from ecolinguistics to enhance the content. Moreover, in terms of EE objectives, the textbooks provided ecological knowledge but lacked emphasis on developing skills and encouraging student participation in solving environmental problems. Examples demonstrating the ability to evaluate and address environmental issues were also absent. Suggestions are made for future EE content in EFL materials.
Exploring the Use of Reflective Practices among Teachers of English in Nigerian Secondary Schools
Authors: Korau Shehu Muhammad , Aliyu Muhammad Mukhtar , Ya’u Mohammed Sani , Jika Yusuf Muhammad
Published: August 2024

Reflective practice has been reported to be effective in enhancing teaching and learning. However, many teachers of English in Nigeria are not aware of it. Thus, this study investigates the awareness and implementation of reflective practices among English language teachers in Nigerian secondary schools. A cross-sectional survey research design was adopted and 77 teachers were selected to participate in the study. Data for the study were collected using a questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. The study discovered that most of the respondents have a low level of engagement in reflective practice in their teaching activities. The findings also suggest a lack of awareness of reflective practices among the majority of respondents. Additionally, the study discovered that even those with some awareness of reflective practices rarely followed established steps for incorporating reflection into their teaching. This indicates a significant gap between theoretical knowledge and practice. Thus, the study makes recommendations for professional development programs to familiarize educators with the concept of reflective teaching and its potential impact on instructional effectiveness.
Music Form and Performance Techniques of Bayu Folk Songs
Authors: Gong Yonghong , Jirajarupat Phakamas , Zhang Yinghua
Published: August 2024

Bayu folk songs, rooted in the cultural heritage of the Chongqing, Guizhou, and Hunan regions in China, embody the essence of local identity and tradition. This study aimed to investigate the musical form and performance techniques of Bayu folk songs, offering insights into preserving and transmitting cultural heritage within educational contexts. Through interviews and observations conducted with 14 key informants from diverse backgrounds, including inheritors, local villagers, cultural center leaders, and relevant experts, the research examines the cultural preservation, musical diversity, and transmission challenges of Bayu folk songs within educational settings. The study’s results are based on a thematic analysis of qualitative data collected through structured interviews and observation forms. These findings show how vital Bayu folk songs are for building community identity, keeping culture alive, and passing it down from generation to generation. The research underscores the importance of developing standardized guidelines, increasing access to educational resources, and fostering collaboration between academic institutions and cultural stakeholders to promote the preservation and transmission of Bayu cultural heritage within educational settings.
Loitsude edasiandmise ja esitamise iseärasused idaslaavlastel
Authors:   Institute for Slavic Studies, Russian Academy of Sciences, Agapkina Tatiana A.
Published: August 2024

The article discusses the peculiarities of passing on incantations by East Slavic sages (znahar’), emphasising the tradition of passing on incantations from one generation to another, inside and outside the family, tendencies of free magic knowledge transfer, as well as limitations to the passing of closing fragments of especially significant incantations (zamok ‘lock’ or zakrepka ‘fastening’). The second part of the article focuses on the rules the healer follows when using incantations as a magical means: attitude to incantations as material objects, practices for restoring the power of incantations, types of sages, as well as rules concerned with choosing the object of incantations.
Mordva materjal Eesti kogudes ja mordva diasporaad Eestis 20. sajandi lõpus ja 21. sajandi alguses
Authors:   Department of Folkloristics, Estonian Literary Museum, Tartu, Estonia, Ermakov Natalia
Published: August 2024

This article focusing on Mordvin material in Estonian collections and Mordvin (Erzya-Moksha) diasporas in Estonia in the late 20th–early 21st centuries is based mainly on materials collected in the period between 1994 and 2016 from the journal KUDO published by the Estonian Mordvin Society and reflecting the diverse life of the diaspora. We have also analysed recorded biographical data of Erzya and Moksha people residing in the Republic of Estonia and the archival material of the Estonian Mordvin Society. The article reviews the history of the first settlers, their number, formation of cultural societies and their interaction with other organisations, integration into Estonian society, information about the first Estonian expeditions to the settlements of the Erzya and Moksha as well as cultural and educational ties between Estonia and Mordovia. All this reveals the activities of compatriots, trends in population change in this group, mechanisms of the preservation of national identity and the role of Mordvin national and cultural non-profit organisations in the preservation and development of ethnic culture in the Republic of Estonia.
Minimally Invasive Approach to Epiphrenic Oesophageal Diverticulum: A Case Report
Authors: Reddy Vaishnavi , Galam Pushkar , Nirhale Dakshayani Satish , Gaudani Romi , Puvvada Pragna
Published: August 2024

An oesophageal diverticulum is a relatively rare disorder of the oesophagus which results in the outpouching of the oesophageal mucosa through a weak portion within the oesophageal lining. Oesophageal diverticula occur in <1% of the population and are found in approximately 1-3% of those presenting with dysphagia. A 75-year-old male patient came to the surgical Outpatient Department (OPD) with chief complaints of difficulty in swallowing for 2-3 months, initially with solids which later progressed to difficulty in swallowing liquids. He was diagnosed on a Contrast-Enhanced Computed Tomography (CECT) scan with a large oesophageal diverticulum arising from the right lower lateral thoracic oesophagus just proximal to the oesophagogastric junction in the retrocardiac region with no filling defect or mucosal thickening. The patient was treated with transhiatal laparoscopic oesophageal diverticulectomy with cardiomyotomy and Dor fundoplication. For symptomatic patients, most often, minimally invasive myotomy and removal of the pouch endoscopically are advised, which may pose a surgical challenge due to the rarity of the disease.
Morphological Characterization and Diversity Analysis of Maize Inbred Lines (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Kumar Ajay , Narayan Ashish , Choudhary Vinay Kumar
Published: August 2024

To characterize Maize inbred lines in respect to morphological and physiological traits for its diversity and final utilization in the breeding programs, a study was conducted with twenty-five inbred lines at Tirhut college of Agriculture, Dholi Muzaffarpur Bihar. Genetic diversity among inbred lines may be used for promising hybrid combinations development in maize breeding programme. In the present investigation, these twenty-five inbred lines were sown in randomized block design with standard agronomical practices during Kharif, 2022. Analysis of variance revealed highly significant differences among the genotypes for all the parameters viz., Days to 50 percent Tasseling and Silking, 75% Brown husk, Plant Height (cn), Ear height (cm), Ear length (cm), Ear girth (cm), No. of Kernels per row, No. of kernel rows per ear, Iron and Zinc content (ppm), 100 grain weight (g), Harvest index and Grain yield (kg/ha.) showed presence of considerable variability among all the genotypes. Narrow deviation from genotypic and phenotypic variance evidenced that very less environmental influence on expression of almost all studied characters. According to the D2 analysis, the 25 maize inbred lines were divided into eight clusters, with cluster I having the largest number of inbred lines, while clusters II, V, VI, VII,  and VIII have only one inbred line. Cluster VI (21-213-CML-401) and cluster VIII (HKI-1105) was the most distant cluster among inbred lines within the clusters, indicating the greatest genetic diversity.
Impact of Zinc Solubilizing Bacteria and Microbial Consortia on Growth and Yield of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Singh Tribhuwan , Kothari Munmun , Singh Ajay Veer , Shankhdhar Deepti , Shankhdhar S. C.
Published: August 2024

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a staple food for over half the world's population, particularly in Asia. This study explores the potential of Zn-solubilizing microbes to enhance micronutrient content in rice, aiming to address these deficiencies sustainably. Beneficial free-living soil bacteria, specifically plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), were investigated for their role in improving plant health and yield. Twenty-two bacterial isolates were screened for Zn solubilization, with Enterobacter hormaechei identified as the most promising. Field experiments with rice varieties PD 26 and NDR 359 involved treatmentssuch asT1 (Control), T2 (ZnSB1: Enterobacter hormaechei MT507226.1), T3 (Consortium1: Pantoearodasii MZ397586 + Seratiamarcesecens MW843567), and T4 (Consortium2: Enterobacter hormaechei MT507226.1 + Pantoearodasii MZ397586 + Seratiamarcesecens MW843567).  with individual and consortia of Zn-solubilizing bacteria. Significant improvements were shown in plant height, leaf area index (LAI), total chlorophyll, total dry matter (TDM), and grain yield. Results showed that Consortium1 (T3) significantly increased plant height by 7.94% for PD26 and 10.16% for NDR 359. Leaf Area Index (LAI) also improved notably under Consortium1, with increases of 15.56% for PD26 and 24.39% for NDR 359. Total chlorophyll content was highest under Consortium1 for PD26 (36.63% increase) and under Consortium2 for NDR 359 (31.41% increase). Total dry matter (TDM) showed substantial gains, especially in NDR 359 with Consortium2 treatment, achieving a 36.51% increase. Grain yield increased significantly across all treatments, with Consortium1 showing the highest yields: 12.26% for PD26 and 23.01% for NDR 359.Correlation analysis indicated strong positive relationships between plant height, TDM, and grain yield, underscoring the importance of these parameters in determining crop productivity. The findings suggest that microbial consortia, particularly Consortium1, can effectively replace traditional zinc fertilizers, enhancing sustainable agriculture by promoting plant growth and yield. These results are consistent with recent studies on the role of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) in improving nutrient uptake and crop performance.
Influence of Soil on Crop Performance and Ecosystem Services: A Review
Authors: Kumar Premchand , Pandey Amit Kumar , Singh Ashutosh
Published: August 2024

Globally, the soil has a direct or indirect role in effective and sustainable agricultural production. This is due to the soil's multiple benefits to the creation of food, whether it comes from crops or animals. The pH, organic matter content, and nutritional balance of soils all affect how well they perform as vital life supports and nourishment sources. In addition to supporting a variety of living things and aiding in water regulation, these substrates are essential for sequestering carbon, particularly in light of climate change. But because of climate and human influences, soils are under danger, necessitating proactive resource management techniques. Combating degradation of the soil, which is impacted by things like unsustainable agriculture, deforestation, and inadequate irrigation, is essential to stopping desertification. Sustainable practices like nutrient management and integrated soil fertility management, proper tillage operation, etc. aim to increase crop productivity and improve soil fertility. Management techniques and environmental modifications have the potential to boost sustainability and enhance ecosystem service and help create agroecosystems that are robust to stress, resource efficiency, and climate change.
19. Yüzyıl Sonlarında İstanbul’un Ticari Durumu (Amerikan Konsolosluk Raporlarına Göre)
Authors: Kaya Gülşah
Published: August 2024

19. yüzyıl sonlarında başkent İstanbul, dönemin birkaç metropolünden birisiydi. İstanbul’un kalabalık nüfusunun ihtiyaçlarını karşılayabilmek için ticarette etkin olmak gerekliydi. Bu durumun farkında olan devletlerden birisi Amerika Birleşik Devletleri idi. İstanbul’daki ticari duruma hâkim olabilmek ve buradaki ticaretini geliştirmek amacıyla ABD İstanbul Başkonsolosluğu hem ABD hem de diğer ülkeler ile yapılan ithalat ve ihracat ile bölgenin ihtiyaçları hakkında bilgiler veren raporlar hazırlamışlardır. Bu çalışmadaki amaç İstanbul Amerikan Başkonsolosluğu raporlarından istifade ederek 19. yüzyıl sonlarında İstanbul’un ticari durumu hakkında bilgiler vermektir. Çalışmada Amerikan konsolosluk raporlarının kullanılması objektif bir bakış açısının oluşmasında önemlidir. Ayrıca iktisat tarihi, yakınçağ tarihi ve uluslararası ilişkiler gibi disiplinler arası bir çalışma olması bakımından da önem arz etmektedir. İlk olarak 19. yüzyıl sonlarında İstanbul’un ticareti hakkında genel bilgi verilmiş, sonra İstanbul’dan yapılan ihracat ve İstanbul’a yapılan ithalat konularına yer verilmiştir. Sonuç olarak o dönemde İstanbul’un tam anlamıyla bir üretim şehri değil, daha çok bir ticaret şehri olduğu kanaatine varılabilir.
Stochastic Initial States Randomization Method for Robust Knowledge Transfer in Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Kim Dohyun , Bae Jungho
Published: August 2024

Reinforcement learning, which are also studied in the field of defense, face the problem of sample efficiency, which requires a large amount of data to train. Transfer learning has been introduced to address this problem, but its effectiveness is sometimes marginal because the model does not effectively leverage prior knowledge. In this study, we propose a stochastic initial state randomization(SISR) method to enable robust knowledge transfer that promote generalized and sufficient knowledge transfer. We developed a simulation environment involving a cooperative robot transportation task. Experimental results show that successful tasks are achieved when SISR is applied, while tasks fail when SISR is not applied. We also analyzed how the amount of state information collected by the agents changes with the application of SISR.
Polar Converting Logic of Bank-To-Turn with Skidding for Small Size UAV
Authors: Nam Kyungjae
Published: August 2024

In this paper, polar converting logic of bank-to-turn with skidding is provided for small size UAV. In general, original polar converting logic has problems of singularity, safety and flight data analysis when acceleration commands diverge at the end of terminal guidance. To solve those problems, new methodology of polar converting logic of bank-to-turn with skidding is presented. It can easily solve singularity problem, increase safety and provide intuition of data analysis. Simulation and flight results are presented to verify proposed polar converting logic for bank-to-turn with skidding method.
Nerve-Agent Selective Chemiresistors Fabricated by Oxime Decorated Polypyrrole Layer on Cellulose Paper
Authors: Jeon Changhoon , Ha Taihwan
Published: August 2024

In continuous research of detecting highly toxic chemical warfare agents to ensure preparedness for the future battlefield, flexible and wearable sensor platforms with high sensitivity are still demanding. Herein we demonstrate a facile fabrication of polypyrrole-based chemiresistors on cellulose paper for the detection of nerve gas simulants. In order to optimize electrical properties of sensor platform, conducting polymer made of polypyrrole were first synthesized on flexible cellulose paper and interdigitated electrodes were formed thereon. Following confirmation of polypyrrole and/or oxime moiety through FT-IR analyses, electrical characteristics were measured in the various ratio of monomers between simple pyrrole and oxime-modified one. Typically for the optimized chemiresistor(2:8 molar ratio of simple pyrrole and oxime-modified one), eleven species of chemical warfare agents were examined and enhanced conductivity(104~105 order) was observed for three simulants(diethyl cyanophosphonate, diisopropyl fluorophosphonate and diethyl chlorophosphonate), which was mainly attributed to intermolecular hydrogen bonding, while no significant responses was recorded against sixteen common volatile organic chemicals.
Simultaneous HTDMA and HR‐ToF‐AMS measurements at the HKUST Supersite in Hong Kong in 2011
Authors: Yeung Ming Chee , Lee Berto P. , Li Yong Jie , Chan Chak K.
Published: August 2014

This paper presents the results of simultaneous aerosol hygroscopicity and composition measurements using a Humidified Tandem Differential Mobility Analyzer (HTDMA) and an Aerodyne High‐Resolution Time‐of‐Flight Aerosol Mass Spectrometer (HR‐ToF‐AMS) at the HKUST Supersite, located at a coastal suburban site in Hong Kong. Growth factors (GFs) at 90% relative humidity and the size‐resolved composition of ambient aerosols at dry electrical mobility diameters of 75, 100, 150, and 200 nm were measured in May, September, and November 2011. Bimodal GF distributions with a dominant more hygroscopic (MH) mode and a small fraction of the nonhygroscopic or less hygroscopic mode (number fraction < 0.2) were observed throughout the study. The average MH mode GF (1.44–1.52) over the second half of September was significantly lower than that in other periods (1.53–1.64) due to the high organic loading under the influence of the continental airstream. The average ensemble mean growth factor (GF*) of maritime aerosols was higher (1.53–1.59) than that of continental aerosols (1.45–1.48). Closure between the aerosol hygroscopicity and chemical composition was also evaluated. Over 90% of measured data and predictions based on Extended Aerosol Inorganics Model with a constant GF of the organic fraction (GForg) of 1.18 are within 10% closure. Approximations for GForg using the fraction of m/z 44 in organic mass spectra, the oxygen‐to‐carbon atomic ratio, and PMF‐resolved organic factors from HR‐ToF‐AMS measurements did not yield better closure results, likely because of the overall dominance of sulfate over the whole study period. Finally, GForg of 1 to 1.5 (with κorg up to 0.29) was found to best fit the additional water content unexplained by the inorganic species.
Impacts and effects of mesoscale ocean eddies on ocean carbon storage and atmospheric pCO2
Authors: Munday D. R. , Johnson H. L. , Marshall D. P.
Published: August 2014

An idealized numerical ocean model is used to investigate the sensitivity of the partial pressure of atmospheric carbon dioxide (pCO2) to changes in surface wind stress when mesoscale eddies are permitted in the flow. When wind stress increases, pCO_2 increases, and vice versa. The introduction of mesoscale eddies reduces the overall sensitivity of pCO2 by changing the sensitivity of ocean carbon storage due to the saturation state of carbon dioxide, the net air‐sea disequilibrium, soft tissue carbon, and the carbonate pump. However, a full carbon pump decomposition shows different responses for different ocean carbon storage terms. For example, air‐sea disequilibrium is actually more sensitive to increased winds at eddy‐permitting resolution, whereas soft tissue carbon is much less sensitive to wind changes in an eddy‐permitting ocean. Changes in pycnocline depth and the strength of both upper and lower cells of the meridional overturning circulation affect this sensitivity.
Eruptive and tectonic history of the Endeavour Segment, Juan de Fuca Ridge, based on AUV mapping data and lava flow ages
Authors: Clague David. A. , Dreyer Brian M. , Paduan Jennifer B. , Martin Julie F. , Caress David W. , Gill James B. , Kelley Deborah S. , Thomas Hans , Portner Ryan A. , Delaney John R. , Guilderson Thomas P. , McGann Mary L.
Published: August 2014

High‐resolution bathymetric surveys from autonomous underwater vehicles ABE and D. Allan B. were merged to create a coregistered map of 71.7 km2 of the Endeavour Segment of the Juan de Fuca Ridge. Radiocarbon dating of foraminifera in cores from three dives of remotely operated vehicle Doc Ricketts provide minimum eruption ages for 40 lava flows that are combined with the bathymetric data to outline the eruptive and tectonic history. The ages range from Modern to 10,700 marine‐calibrated years before present (yr BP). During a robust magmatic phase from >10,700 yr BP to ∼4300 yr BP, flows erupted from an axial high and many flowed >5 km down the flanks; some partly buried adjacent valleys. Axial magma chambers (AMCs) may have been wider than today to supply dike intrusions over a 2 km wide axial zone. Summit Seamount formed by ∼4770 yr BP and was subsequently dismembered during a period of extension with little volcanism starting ∼4300 yr BP. This tectonic phase with only rare volcanic eruptions lasted until ∼2300 yr BP and may have resulted in near‐solidification of the AMCs. The axial graben formed by crustal extension during this period of low magmatic activity. Infrequent eruptions occurred on the flanks between 2620–1760 yr BP and within the axial graben since ∼1750 yr BP. This most recent phase of limited volcanic and intense hydrothermal activity that began ∼2300 yr BP defines a hydrothermal phase of ridge development that coincides with the present‐day 1 km wide AMCs and overlying hydrothermal vent fields.