bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preliminary Analysis of the New Urban Agenda: The Brazil Case Study
Authors: Da Silva Pinto Carlos Vinícius , Kühner Tobias , Naves David Amorim Claudia
Published: September 2024

The following analytical exercise wants to provide the reader with a brief introduction into the New Urban Agenda, an international guideline elaborated by UN-Habitat and agreed by all UN member countries, including Brazil. It should off er a broad overview about the context of the document, how the agenda is structured, what the principal appeals for action are, what the interconnections with other international guidelines are, how the agenda should be implemented on the regional & national level as well as what the UN-Habitat wants to achieve with it. The study will subsequently present exemplary the challenges to institutionalize the New Urban Agenda in general, and specifi cally in the context of Brazilian metropolitan. The information obtained in this text was contextualized for the territory of the metropolitan region of Porto Alegre / RS, focusing on the approach of sustainable urban development based on the relations between the rural and the urban and the challenges faced by the metropolis of Rio Grande do Sul. The research indicates that the institutional arrangements for metropolitan governance in Brazil do not yet have several structural elements for the application of the guidelines proposed by the NAU, thus hampering the advancement of urban development policies in the country.
ВЗАИМОДЕЙСТВИЕ ХРОМОВОГО ПОКРЫТИЯ С ОБОЛОЧКОЙ ТВЭЛА ИЗ СТАЛИ ЭП823-Ш В ДИАПАЗОНЕ ТЕМПЕРАТУР 420–650 °С
Authors: Исаев Р. Ш. , Джумаев И. С.
Published: September 2024

Хромовое покрытие может увеличить коррозионную стойкость оболочки твэла из стали ЭП823-Ш в среде жидкого свинца при температуре до 650 °С. В свою очередь целесообразно блокировать диффузионное взаимодействие хромового покрытия и стали в течение всего периода эксплуатации твэла. Электронно-микроскопические исследования образцов после высокотемпературных испытаний показали наличие слоя взаимодействия «покрытие-сталь». При температуре 420 °C и времени выдержки 1000 ч хромовое покрытие сохранило адгезию, взаимодействия между покрытием и сталью не наблюдалось. Однако при испытании 540 и 650 °C и времени выдержки 1000 ч на границе «покрытие-сталь» появляется неравномерный по толщине слой взаимодействия в пределах 150–600 нм. Этот слой имеет сложный состав и блокирует дальнейшую взаимную диффузию компонентов стали и покрытия друг в друга. Сталь ЭП823-Ш содержит молибден и вольфрам около 1 мас.%, и эти элементы могут способствовать ускоренному образованию слоя взаимодействия. Анализ взаимодействия в системе «покрытие-сталь» показал перспективность использования хрома как защитного покрытия внутренней поверхности оболочки твэла из стали ЭП823-Ш.
VALUE CREATION, CORPORATE INCOME TAXATION AND TAX EVASION – AN OVERVIEW
Authors: Capitão Sandra Cristina Capa Farragola Santos , Moreira Cândido Jorge Carvalho Peres , Terrinca Catarina Carvalho Peres , Geraldes João Manuel Afonso
Published: September 2024

Objective: Globally present the status of the main Portuguese corporate income taxes, as well as a general and theoretical overview of their aggregation, in terms of the effective tax burden. The informal economy and tax evasion problem will also be exposed, as a global approach to its implications, measures to combat and the relationship with the evolution of the tax burden.
 
Method: was made a brief approach to the Laffer Curve at the Corporate Income Tax level, Municipal Surcharge and effective tax payment, contextualizing “Pagamento por Conta” and Additional “Pagamento por Conta” and of the state of the art of the parallel economy and tax evasion, regarding existing measures for prevention and combat.
 
Results and Discussion: The central point in the current determination of the tax base is the assumption that the creation of value is, therefore, income corresponding to the accounting result after adjustments. However, this does not consider the company's financial effort of effectively generating this result. It is therefore important to discuss more than new adjustments that may be necessary or changes to the rates’ usage with differential installments, an effective change in the tax base, replacing its current calculation, by determination via added value.
 
Research Implications: The hypothetical change in the corporate income taxation tax base, witch for the time being is the generated result, after being subject to some corrections, to effectively tax the business creation of value instead.
 
Originality/Value: Regardless of the maintenance of penalties for less correct behavior the application of the tax calculation on the value created would an equitable encourage taxation, making the creation of value effectively subject to tax and not the simply difference in income and corrected expenses, bringing into the determination of the tax base the cost of generating the result, thus, considering the whole company.
Introduction
Authors: Hanfling Edward
Published: September 2024

In 2013 I edited the final issue (as I was dismayed to discover afterwards) of the Journal of New Zealand Art History (JONZAH). It is a pleasure, then, to write this introduction for a special issue of the Journal of New Zealand Studies (JNZS) devoted to New Zealand art history. The quantity and quality of the articles in this issue go a considerable way to filling the void left by JONZAH in the intervening decade, even if the loss of a dedicated double-blind peer-reviewed journal remains keenly felt.
Overturning the Narrative: Steele and Goldie's Arrival of the Maoris in New Zealand, 1899
Authors: Davidson-Ladd Jane
Published: September 2024

New Zealand’s best-known historical painting, Louis John Steele and Charles Frederick Goldie’s Arrival of the Maoris in New Zealand (1899), has influenced the way Māori history has been (mis)understood. Through a detailed examination of the historical, anthropological and artistic sources that informed the painting, a new understanding emerges. Rather than a generic imagined depiction of Māori arrival, a long-overlooked source for the narrative is found in the voyage of the Arawa waka and its encounter with the “throat of Te Parata.” The analysis gives new insight into the artists’ intent, enabling us to begin to address the uncomfortable place Arrival occupies in New Zealand art history and culture.
The British Art Section of the 1906–1907 New Zealand International Exhibition: Its Complexities and Contributions to New Zealand’s Art History
Authors: Adams Victoria
Published: September 2024

The British Art Section of the 1906–7 New Zealand International Exhibition in Christchurch remains the largest exhibition of British art in New Zealand history. However, its cultural impact has been little explored in art history scholarship. This article addresses contrasting interpretations of the section by examining its origins, purchases and legacies, reconsidering and recontextualising previous analysis by art historians Linda Tyler and Warren Feeney. The success of the section neither devastated nor revitalised the work of local artists, but instead reinforced the continued importance of purchasing British art for New Zealand and the pivotal role it played in shaping this country’s nascent art collections.
Analysis of the Clinical Value of Two-Dimensional Plus Four-Dimensional Ultrasound in the Diagnosis of Fetal Facial Anomalies
Authors: Zhang Pengcheng
Published: September 2024

Objective: To explore and analyze the clinical value of two-dimensional plus four-dimensional ultrasound in diagnosing fetal facial anomalies. Methods: To review and analyze the basic data of 50 fetuses with facet anomalies delivered in Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Jiangyan District from January 2017 to January 2023, and to analyze and compare the two-dimensional (2D) diagnostic results of all the fetuses (2D group), and the combined 2D and four-dimensional (4D) diagnostic results (combined group). Results: Taking the delivery results as the gold standard, 39 fetuses with facial anomalies were diagnosed in the 2D group, and 48 fetuses with facial anomalies were diagnosed in the combined group, which showed that the diagnostic compliance rate of the 2D group was significantly lower than that of the combined group, and the difference of P < 0.05 was statistically significant. The sensitivity and accuracy of the diagnostic efficiency of the combined group were significantly higher than that of the 2D group, and the difference was statistically significant at P < 0.05; the specificity of the diagnostic efficiency of the combined group and the 2D group was compared, and the difference was not statistically significant at (P > 0.05). Conclusion: 2D plus 4D ultrasounds are more accurate in diagnosing fetal facial anomalies, and the combined diagnosis is more clinically significant, so it is recommended to be widely used and promoted.
Ultrasonographic Performance and Clinical Analysis of Ultrasound in the Diagnosis of Uterine Fibroids
Authors: Wang Shan , Li Xiaoyan
Published: September 2024

Objective: To assess ultrasound’s ultrasonographic performance and clinical value in diagnosing uterine fibroids. Methods: 60 patients with suspected uterine fibroids admitted to the hospital between March 2021 and March 2024 were selected for this study. Abdominal B-mode ultrasound was used as the gold standard to detect pathological findings, and the results were compared and analyzed. Results: 54 patients were diagnosed after the gold standard, and the results of abdominal B-mode ultrasound were positive predictive value: 96.29%; negative predictive value: 66.67%; accuracy: 93.33%; sensitivity: 96.29%; specificity: 66.67%. Among 60 patients examined by B-mode ultrasound, there were a total of 54 patients who were diagnosed by the gold standard, and 19 cases of uterine leiomyosarcoma were confirmed by the detection of uterine leiomyosarcoma by the gold standard, and B-mode ultrasound (94.73%); 21 cases of cervical leiomyoma were confirmed by gold standard test and 20 cases of cervical leiomyoma were diagnosed by ultrasound (95.24%); 14 cases of mixed leiomyoma were confirmed by gold standard test and 14 cases of mixed leiomyoma were diagnosed by ultrasound (100.00%). Conclusion: Using abdominal ultrasound to examine patients with uterine fibroids can significantly improve the efficiency of diagnosis and treatment and provide a strong scientific basis for subsequent treatment decisions.
A Review on the Diagnosis and Treatment of Osteoporosis in Primary Biliary Cholangitis
Authors: Guo Yan , Tang Zhongquan
Published: September 2024

Osteoporosis (OP) is a common extrahepatic manifestation of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), with a high incidence rate and damage, which seriously affects patients’ long-term prognosis. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for improving the prognosis of PBC patients. This article reviews the OP screening methods, treatment indications, and clinical treatment for PBC patients based on relevant domestic and foreign literature.
Clinical Observation of Zero-P System Interbody Fusion Combined with Traditional Chinese Medicine-Directed Drug Delivery Technology for Treating Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy
Authors: Tian Kaiwen , Yang Yinjun , Guo Dongwu , He Weijun , Ren Sen , Zhao Junhu
Published: September 2024

Objective: To investigate the clinical efficacy of the Zero-profile fusion cage (Zero-P) combined with Traditional Chinese Medicine-directed drug delivery technique in the treatment of cervical spondylotic myelopathy, and to assess its impact on potential postoperative complications. Methods: 13 patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy were selected from January 2022 to October 2023. The intraoperative bleeding volume, operation duration, and hospitalization days were recorded, the incidence and improvement of postoperative complications were observed, and the pain index and cervical function index were analyzed, including Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score, Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score, Neck Disability Index (NDI) index, etc. Results: The operation duration of patients was 65–110 (81.92 ± 13.47) min; mean intraoperative blood loss was 12.30 ± 7.80 ml, and mean postoperative hospital days were 9.62 ± 3.52 days. All patients in this group were followed up over 3 months after surgery, and the study found that the VAS, JOA, and NDI scores improved significantly compared with the preoperative difference (P < 0.01); and the VAS, JOA, and NDI scores 1 month postoperative improved significantly compared with 1 week postoperative (P < 0.01). In addition, the incidence of postoperative complications of the Zero-P system was low, with no incision infection, implant rejection, fracture, displacement, cerebrospinal fluid leakage, recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, and laryngeal edema; one patient had mild dysphagia (7.69%) and nine patients had throat dryness and discomfort (69.23%), which completely disappeared after 1 week of TCM-directed drug treatment and symptomatic treatment. Conclusion: Zero-P system interbody fusion has a significant effect on cervical spondylotic myelopathy, with a low incidence of postoperative complications and fast improvement speed, which can effectively enhance the impact of surgery on cervical spondylotic myelopathy patients, thus it is worthy of application and promotion.
Design of a High-Performance Bone Substitute using Finite Element Analysis and Topology Optimization
Authors: Zhu Chuanqi
Published: September 2024

The development of bone substitutes that meet biomechanical requirements remains a significant challenge in biomedical engineering. This study integrates finite element analysis (FEA) and topology optimization to design high-performance bone substitutes optimized for load-bearing applications. Bone geometries were obtained through advanced scanning technologies, and FEA simulations were carried out using Ansys software to refine the designs. Iterative optimization enhanced the load-bearing capacity and biocompatibility while ensuring a lightweight structure. Material selection and microstructural adjustments were made to achieve optimal mechanical and biological performance. The combination of FEA and topology optimization in this research offers advancements in the design of bone substitutes, showing promising results under physiological loads and indicating strong potential for clinical applications.
Pengelolaan Cache pada Aplikasi Pencatatan Penjualan Menggunakan Fuzzy Page Replacement Algorithm
Authors: Julastri Bregsi Atingsari , Sari Anggraini Puspita , Prami Swari Made Hanindia
Published: September 2024

The challenges faced in website development are becoming increasingly diverse, particularly in delivering a responsive website that aligns with user preferences. Progressive Web App (PWA) is an advanced web technology that combines the advantages of mobile applications with the ease of access provided by browsers. With features such as offline access and responsiveness across various devices through the utilization of web caching, PWA can offer a better and more interactive user experience. This study aims to develop a sales recording application based on PWA, optimized using an algorithm with a fuzzy approach, namely the Fuzzy Page Replacement Algorithm (FPRA) in cache management. FPRA is applied to enhance cache efficiency through the clustering of pages based on recency, access frequency, and page reference levels using the Fuzzy C-Means algorithm. The research was conducted with a case study on the sales recording application for a fried chicken business, employing the Rapid Application Development (RAD) method for the design and construction of the application. The results indicate that FPRA successfully reduced page load time significantly, achieving up to 37% faster performance based on the average results of five tested scenarios. The implementation of FPRA in the service worker also increased the average performance score of the application by 15 points, from 56 to 71, as evaluated using the Lighthouse testing tool. Thus, the utilization of caching and the application of FPRA in cache management have been proven to enhance application performance.
“Reach Out, Not Harm”: Navigating between Physical Punishment and Alternative Strategies in Addressing Student Discipline Challenges for a Positive Learning Environment
Authors: Wulandari Diana , Abdullah Sarimah Shaik
Published: September 2024

Based on the interpretivist ontological assumption that teachers and students hold unique positions regarding school discipline, this study explores their perspectives on using physical punishment and alternative strategies to address challenging discipline problems. 20 teachers (with more than 5 years of teaching experience) and 20 students (aged 16-18 years old) from a secondary school in Indonesia who were identified through purposeful snowball sampling were engaged via semi-structured interviews and an open online survey to capture their perspectives. Data were thematically analysed following Newton’s (1980) comparison of school discipline models to reveal both parties to be in favour of alternative discipline strategies because physical punishment was deemed to have adverse effects and does not educate. The alternative disciplining strategies proposed by the teachers and students match with the characteristics of the following models: Individual fulfilment (approach students, dialogue and negotiation), scholarly discipline (strict adherence to school rules, consistency in rule enforcement, teacher as a role model); and educational technology (reminders of school rules, progressive disciplining process). The “fair disciplining” theme in the students’ data had no model fit. Meanwhile, no evidence suggests inclinations toward the social reconstruction model of school discipline. This study provides a glimpse into the diverse disciplining strategies which are the result of a bottom-up inquiry for addressing students’ challenging behaviours to cultivate a positive learning environment.
Economic and Management Sciences Teachers’ Experiences of Teaching Financial Literacy: Implications for Teacher Training
Authors: Agumba Hellen Ochuot , Dasoo Nazreen
Published: September 2024

This paper reports on economic and management sciences (EMS) teachers’ experiences of teaching the financial literacy component in this learning area. It also provides a holistic understanding of their challenges and professional development needs in this integrated field. A qualitative case study approach was used to allow for an in-depth understanding of EMS teachers’ views and experiences. Data were collected through open-ended questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Purposive sampling was used to select information-rich participants from selected government secondary schools in Gauteng province, South Africa. Participants in the study included grades 8 and 9 EMS teachers. A thematic analysis approach was used to analyze data collected from the open-ended questionnaires and interview responses. The findings show that, due to poor training, EMS teachers continue to experience challenges in integrating the financial literacy component. Consequently, teachers default to fragmented approaches to teaching EMS, which undermines government initiatives aimed at realizing social transformation objectives through the EMS curriculum. The study recommends an implicit approach to teacher development programs by incorporating EMS teachers’ views, experiences, and specific needs as well as contexts. The research contributes to the literature on commerce education in South Africa by offering ways in which education can be transformative and how the quality of teaching financial literacy in EMS can improve.
Situating Ubuntu Philosophy in Pre-service Teacher Education
Authors: Olawumi Kayode Babatunde , Mavuso Mzuyanda Percival , Duku Ntombozuku Stunku
Published: September 2024

Ubuntu African philosophy and its values have been a subject of discussion by stakeholders due to its humanness and communal nature. It embodies African cultural values and belief systems that form the ways of life of indigenous people. These critical attributes of Ubuntu have necessitated its integration into pre-service teacher education to prepare Ubuntu-focused teachers who can contribute to decolonizing the education system in South Africa and beyond. However, efforts must be made to integrate Ubuntu values into pre-service teacher education. This paper reports on an investigation of the relevance of Ubuntu’s philosophy to pre-service teacher education. The investigation adopted the qualitative integrative literature review approach by selecting twenty-four articles from Scopus, EBSCO, and Google Scholar databases for review. The authors selected relevant articles using the relevant inclusion criteria and analyzed them under different themes to answer the two research questions formulated for this study. In order to increase teachers’ capacity to support the decolonization of education in Africa, the article suggests that the humanness and communalism approaches to education should be incorporated into pre-service teacher education curricula. That the quest for colonial knowledge over the years in South Africa and, indeed, Africa has been attributed to the Eurocentric and increased domination of African culture of togetherness and ethics of care. The paper also concludes that Ubuntu higher education can serve as a framework for decolonizing the African higher education system. The authors suggest that there is a need to formulate strategies for integrating important values of Ubuntu, like humanness, interconnectedness, and communalism, into the pre-service teacher education program.
Saudi Students’ Reluctance to Engage in English Communication: Critical Issues and Considerations
Authors: Al-Wossabi Sami Ali
Published: September 2024

Teaching English as a foreign language is an important aspect of global education. Yet, a common pedagogical hurdle for EFL instructors is fostering students’ confidence in spoken English, an essential skill for cross-cultural communication and collaboration in today’s interconnected world. Therefore, the paper aims to examine why Saudi EFL students may experience comparable challenges in speaking English, akin to those faced by students in other EFL settings. A comprehensive literature review was carried out, exploring speaking reluctance across diverse contexts, including the Saudi EFL setting. The paper adopted an alternative approach to address students’ reservations about speaking. Diverging from the conventional emphasis on motivations and anxiety as primary contributors to speaking reluctance, this study delved deeper, highlighting the underlying conditions that lead to reduced motivation and heightened anxiety. The review’s findings revealed that conditions including, students’ unreadiness, lack of relevance, artificial and limited learning environments, fear, lack of self-confidence, and low proficiency level are critical sources of anxiety, lack of motivation, and interest. The paper concluded with a thorough discussion of potential implications for language instructors, educational administrators, teaching methodologies, theoretical frameworks, and future research directions, all directed toward overcoming speaking reluctance among Saudi EFL students.
Mapping the Future of Innovation: A Bibliometric Analysis of STEM Education Trends in K-12
Authors: Khalil Ibrahim Alhussain , Zahrani Amirah AL , Awaji Bakri , Mohsen Mohammed
Published: September 2024

With the increasing global emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, it is crucial to systematically assess research trends and thematic developments in this field. This paper utilizes bibliometric analysis to examine the scholarly landscape of K-12 STEM education, analyzing 2,645 articles from the Web of Science Core Collection between 2019 and 2023. By analyzing citation metrics, author productivity, institutional and country contributions, and exploring word co-occurrence networks, the study identifies predominant themes and patterns in the field. The findings reveal that advanced countries dominate STEM education research, reflecting significant scholarly interest and investment. The analysis also highlights the role of technological advancements and educational reforms in shaping research trajectories. Additionally, a robust pattern of international collaboration is uncovered, where strategic partnerships across diverse institutions utilize multidisciplinary approaches to effectively address educational challenges. The study suggests the need to broaden research databases to include non-English sources and extend analysis over longer periods for a better understanding of evolving trends. Furthermore, the study recommends embracing interdisciplinary methods and integrating emerging technologies to enhance teaching practices.
Responsabilidad social del sector cooperativo ecuatoriano: un enfoque sistémico desde la Economía Popular y Solidaria
Authors: Reyes Reinoso Johanna Rosalí , Urdaneta Mary Josefina , Álvarez Galeano Manuel Felipe
Published: September 2024

El libro Responsabilidad social del sector cooperativo ecuatoriano: un enfoque sistémico desde la Economía Popular y Solidaria ofrece un análisis exhaustivo de la responsabilidad social (RS) en las cooperativas de ahorro y crédito ecuatorianas, integrando los principios de la Economía Popular y Solidaria (EPS) y el Buen Vivir, un paradigma ancestral que promueve el desarrollo integral y la armonía con la naturaleza. Este enfoque sistémico permite comprender cómo los subsistemas sociales, económicos y ambientales interactúan dentro de un marco de sostenibilidad y desarrollo integral. El objetivo principal del libro es proporcionar un modelo teórico y metodológico para entender y aplicar la RS en el sector cooperativo ecuatoriano, especialmente en el contexto de las cooperativas de ahorro y crédito. Los autores examinan cómo estas organizaciones pueden contribuir al desarrollo sostenible y al bienestar social mediante prácticas responsables y éticas. La obra está estructurada en cinco capítulos que cubren desde los fundamentos teóricos y metodológicos pasando por el análisis específico del sistema cooperativo ecuatoriano y sus efectos en la EPS hasta llegar a la discusion de la sostenibilidad del sistema y la evaluación de los efectos de la RS en la EPS del Ecuador.
Rekonstrukcja współczesnych dyskursów zogniskowanych wokół „ochrony życia” i „prawa do aborcji” w Polsce w perspektywie posthumanizmu. Studium pedagogiczne
Authors: Budnik Agnieszka
Published: September 2024

Posthumanizm to nowy sposób myślenia i mówienia o człowieku, jego miejscu w świecie i relacji z nie-ludzkimi bytami. Przegląd poglądów definiowanych jako posthumanistyczne, ujawnia niejednoznaczność tego paradygmatu. W niniejszym artykule, stanowiącym fragment rozprawy doktorskiej, dokonano podziału na posthumanizm filozoficzny i transhumanizm. Wybór posthumanizmu jako wiodącej perspektywy teoretycznej wynikał ze wstępnych badań (rozpoznania problematyki na Facebooku) w których język posthumanistyki bardzo często pojawiał się zarówno w postach, jak i w komentarzach użytkowników Facebooka. Analiza literatury opisującej źródła i poglądy definiowane współcześnie jako posthumanistyczne, a także dotychczasowe badania języka sporu „ochrony życia” i „prawa do aborcji” innych autorów, umożliwia postawienie pytań i celów badawczych w kontekście posthumanistyki. Problemy badawcze odnoszą się do analiz warstwy językowej – do komunikacyjnych praktyk zachodzących w przestrzeni Facebooka. W wyniku analizy wyodrębniono i opisano dwa dyskursy zogniskowane wokół „ochrony życia” – dyskurs osobowy i chrześcijański weganizm oraz dwa wokół „prawa do aborcji” – dyskurs utylitarystyczny i dyskurs feministyczny. Jednym z istotnych ustaleń poznawczych projektu badawczego jest wskazanie na problematykę uczenia się w przestrzeni Facebooka. Użytkownicy Facebooka uczą się w sytuacjach pokonywania granic „bańki komunikacyjnej” (Malinowski 2016). Ustalenie to przeczy dotychczasowym sposobom opisywania Facebooka przez pryzmat zamkniętych wspólnot komunikacyjnych (Kirkpatrick 2011).
Учет эксцентриситета образца при измерении параметров элементарной ячейки малых монокристаллов в схеме Бонда на современных дифрактометрах
Authors: Кудрявцев А.Л. , Громилов С.А.
Published: September 2024

Обсуждаются методические вопросы измерения параметров элементарной ячейки малых кристаллов в схеме Бонда на серийном дифрактометре, оборудованном трехкружным гониометром и 2D-детектором. Исследовано влияния эксцентриситета образца на положение дифракционных рефлексов при поворотах вокруг осей φ и ω. Разработан подход к устранению влияния эксцентриситета образца, связанного с поворотом вокруг оси φ путем выведения одного из кристаллографических направлений вдоль оси ω. Для использованных в данной работе эталонных монокристаллов Si и Ge параметры элементарных ячеек измерены с относительной ошибкой Δа/а не хуже 6.5·10-5.
USING A SCANNING ELECTRON MICROSCOPE IN DIAGNOSING OF CLAY MINERALS IN SOME IRAQI RICE SOILS
Authors:   1Dept. of Soil Sciences and Water Resources, College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq. Ula.Hamed1207a@coagri.uobaghdad.edu.iq, Mahmoud Ola Hamed , Essa Salman Kalaf ,   2Professor PhD., Dept. of Soil Sciences and Water Resources, College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences, University. of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq. Salman.essa.52@gmail.com
Published: September 2024

The Middle Euphrates region, represented by the governorates of Diwaniyah and Al-Najaf, was chosen to conduct the current study. As the two governorates are famous for cultivating various varieties of rice crop. Two methods using to irrigated these soils during the growing season, and called locally wet and dry methods. The morphological features of clay minerals were studied using scanning electron microscope (SEM), to describe the changes that occurred to the mineralogical features of these minerals due to the influence of the irrigation patterns used during irrigation of these soils. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) results show that were many changes in morphological features occurs such as in size and shape of clay minerals, in particular to smectite minerals. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) figure of clays in Al-Najaf(dry) soil showed some of particles appeared as well-formed imperfect hexagonal shape, which revealed that these particles belong to the chlorite mineral. While the mica minerals were appeared in lath-shaped, and rounded flakes in clays of all studied soils. Whereas the montmorillonite particles appear as a thin, webby crust, and have a flat, perming morphology. The variation in the size of the montmorillonite particles was adopted as a basis for the occurrence of the Mg-hydroxide layer within the interlayers of montmorillonite.
ICONOGRAPHY AS (NON)CANONICAL ART. “COLLECTIVE CENSORSHIP” OR “CANON”
Authors:   Russian State University for the Humanities, Antonov Dmitrii I.
Published: September 2024

The author analyses the popular idea of Byzantine and Russian medieval iconography as a “canonical” art that used to be “canonical”, traditional, rarely subject to change, based on clear visual patterns and authoritative texts, clearly reflecting the Orthodox dogma. Such views are widespread in modern culture and mass media. They circulate not only in popular science, but also in the research literature. The article shows that the concept of “canonicity” in relation to iconography is constructed according to various criteria and the term itself appears to be vague and of little operational. The author focuses on various definitions of the “canon” that are found in scientific, popular literature and on the Internet. In conclusion, it is stated that iconography is a visual language, that is better analyzed with the help of terms used in folkloristic studies – variability, plasticity, ‘censorship of the group’. Having a wide arsenal of traditional (preserved and reproduced in a particular tradition) elements – visual methods, iconographic themes, motifs, figures and signs – and having no prescribed rules and regulations, the iconographic story used to be built and structured in different ways, modernized and varied. All that brings iconography and folklore together and provides new approaches to the analysis of the visual language of Christian art.
THE INTERMEDIAL HERO/CHARACTER IN LITERATURE
Authors:   Russian State University for the Humanities, Rybalko Stepan K.
Published: September 2024

The article attempts to define the boundaries of the experimental concept of “intermedial hero”/“intermedial character”, in relation to verbal literary texts. By its nature, the term is collective and is associated primarily with the verbal representation of a specific subject of action (artist, sculptor, musician, etc.), creating works of other arts within a literary text and, most importantly, transforming the structure of the work inner world, making it intermediate (not only in the main plot, but also at thematic, compositional, and mythotectonic levels).
Esclavos de Quito buscan su libertad. Solicitudes de manumisión en la primera mitad del siglo XIX
Authors: Ayala Congo Paulo Roberto
Published: September 2024

Este artículo analiza algunas estrategias discursivas que los esclavos de Quito plasmaron en sus solicitudes de libertad, durante la primera mitad del siglo XIX. Una vez culminadas las batallas por la independencia y durante los primeros años de la república, los esclavizados continuaron en estado de servidumbre. Por esta razón, agenciaron su libertad mediante documentos judiciales dirigidos a la Junta de Manumisión. Con estos documentos, los esclavos intentaban demostrar que eran aptos para emanciparse. En estos alegatos se pueden identificar los discursos ocultos y evidentes que fueron empleados como estrategias para obtener su manumisión.
AWARENESS OF EFFECTIVE TEACHING METHODS IN HYBRID TEACHING A SURVEY OF EDUCATORS
Authors: Fedrick S Attrait Dovin , Robert Raa M. Richard , Gomathi B. S.
Published: September 2024

As hybrid teaching becomes increasingly prevalent in educational settings, understanding educators' familiarity with effective teaching methods within this model is crucial. This study aims to evaluate the awareness levels of educators concerning various pedagogical strategies that are integral to successful hybrid teaching. A comprehensive survey was administered to 167 respondents, encompassing a diverse group of educators across different educational institutions. The analysis of the survey data reveals a nuanced landscape of awareness among educators. While a majority demonstrate a strong understanding of several key teaching methods such as delivering information through multiple channels and employing game-based learning however there are notable gaps in awareness, particularly concerning the use of dashboards to track student progress and the implementation of cooperative learning strategies. The findings underscore the importance of targeted professional development programs aimed at bridging these knowledge gaps. By enhancing educators' understanding and application of these lesser-known strategies, the overall effectiveness of hybrid teaching can be improved, leading to better educational outcomes for students.
PATIENT FEEDBACK AS A TOOL FOR IMPROVING EYE CARE SERVICES: INSIGHTS FROM THREE HOSPITALS IN NEPAL
Authors: Thapa Samsher , Khatter Kapil
Published: September 2024

This study evaluates the quality of care and patient satisfaction across three eye hospitals in Nepal: Rapti Eye Hospital, Lamahi Eye Hospital, and Chhanda Kalebabu Eye Hospital. Although these institutions operate under the same overarching management, they are situated in different locations and governed by distinct administrative management subcommittees. The main purpose of the study is to identify differences in patient satisfaction levels among the three hospitals. Additionally, the research seeks to assess the effectiveness of management, recognizing that while these hospitals share a common management board, the quality of care is heavily influenced by the technical and administrative leadership unique to each hospital. A total of 300 patients were surveyed—100 from each hospital—using the SERVQUAL model questionnaire to measure patient satisfaction, a critical indicator of healthcare service quality. The findings reveal key insights into each hospital's performance, highlighting areas of strength and potential improvement. By understanding patient satisfaction levels, hospital management can address weaker aspects of service delivery and enhance overall patient care. This research underscores the importance of patient feedback in evaluating hospital services and informs strategic efforts for continuous improvement in the healthcare system.
Effect of Winter Sowing and Different Fertilizer Sources on Physiological Parameters and Yield Components of Dragon’s Head (Lallemantia iberica Fisch. & C.A.Mey.)
Authors: Maddahı Shayesteh , Rahimi Amir , Tunçtürk Murat , Siavash Moghaddam Sina , Tunçtürk Rüveyde , Pourakbar Latifeh
Published: September 2024

The effects of autumn sowing and chemical, organic, and biological fertilizer sources were explored on yield components and physiological traits of dragon’s head (Lallemantia iberica Fisch. & C.A.Mey). The study was conducted as a factorial experiment based on a randomized complete block design with three replications in a field experiment in the 2017-2018 crop year. The fertilizer treatments included organic fertilizers (vermicompost, manure, and humic acid), biofertilizer (Thiobacillus mixed with sulfur), chemical fertilizer (macro NPK), and control (no fertilizer). The studied traits included seed yield per ha, harvest index, biological yield per ha, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, carotenoid, proline, and dissolved carbohydrate. The results of the comparison of the means revealed that the winter sowing outperformed the spring sowing evidently and increased traits like seed yield per ha, biological yield per ha, and harvest index significantly. The fertilization of the plants in both sowing seasons, especially in the winter sowing, increased seed yield per ha, biological yield per ha, and harvest index so that the vermicompost-fertilized winter-sown plants produced the highest seed yield per ha (0.91 g), whereas the application of manure was related to the highest harvest index in the winter sowing (27.9%). The highest biological yield (8797 kg ha-1) was related to the treatment of Thiobacillus of the winter-sown plants. Proline content was higher in the spring sowing plants, and the control treatment in the spring sowing had the highest proline content (0.120 mg g-1). Concerning dissolved carbohydrates, the spring sowing and the unfertilized plants had the highest content (20.3 mg g-1). On the other hand, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoid were higher in the treatments of Thiobacillus and vermicompost, which resulted in achieving higher yields due to the increase in photosynthesis rate. According to the results, the winter sowing of the dragon’s head in the Azerbaijan region of Iran and the use of Thiobacillus and vermicompost could be recommended for obtaining plants with optimum quality parameters.
Study of the content of heavy metals and arsenic in dry extracts from medicinal plant materials of different morphological groups
Authors: Galenko M.S. , Lavrova O.S. , Grigorieva V.Yu. , Gravel I.V.
Published: September 2024

Introduction. Extraction dosage forms based on medicinal plant materials are very popular for medical use and must meet safety requirements. As part of the harmonization of pharmacopeial requirements, determining the total content of heavy metals in dry extracts is not enough. It is necessary to unify methods for determining heavy metals and arsenic in medicinal herbal preparations. Objective: to determine the content of heavy metals and arsenic in dry extracts from raw materials of various morphological groups containing essential oils. Material and methods. The objects of the study were dry extracts of calamus rhizomes, rhizomes with valerian roots, mint leaves and chamomile flowers obtained under industrial conditions. Sample preparation was carried out using microwave decomposition and ashing in a muffle furnace. The elemental composition was determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Results. The content of 16 elements (Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Sr, Mo, Cd, Sb, Hg, Pb) in the studied extracts was determined. Mercury was not detected in the samples, the concentrations of the 15 elements found were in the range of 0–250 mg/kg, and toxic elements (Pb, Cd, As, Hg) did not exceed 0.233 mg/kg. The largest quantities contained iron and manganese, and the smallest quantities contained chromium, arsenic, lead and cadmium. The maximum number of elements was contained in the studied samples of rhizome extract with valerian roots, the minimum – in the extract of calamus rhizomes. The morphological group of the feedstock and the specific features of the accumulation of elements can play a decisive role. The results of the study are consistent with the literature data. A comparative analysis of two methods for sample preparation of dry extracts showed that microwave decomposition in closed vessels is preferable, in which 24% more elements are quantified than after ashing in a muffle furnace. The possible intake of minerals into the human body when consuming an extract of rhizomes with valerian roots was calculated. It was established that the amount of elements did not exceed the upper permissible levels of daily intake, on the basis of which the studied extracts can be considered safe for medical use.
Modern methods for controlling and regulating impurities in pharmaceuticals
Authors: Shulga N.A. , Merkushova A.G. , Gegechkori V.I. , Chugaev D.V. , Ramenskaya G.V.
Published: September 2024

The article is dedicated to modern principles of regulation and control of impurities in pharmaceutical products and active pharmaceutical substances, which is a crucial task for the pharmaceutical industry. The relevance of this research stems from the fact that the presence of impurities in pharmaceutical products can significantly affect their safety and efficacy, making the development of stringent control methods throughout the entire life cycle of a pharmaceutical product essential. Even small amounts of impurities can cause adverse effects or reduce the therapeutic value of drugs, as evidenced by historical examples. The aim of the study is to analyze and systematize contemporary approaches to the detection and regulation of impurities in pharmaceutical products. The paper reviews current regulatory requirements, including guidelines from the The International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH) and regulatory documents of the Eurasian Economic Community, as well as national pharmacopeias of the Russian Federation, the United States of America, and the European Union. Conclusion. Additionally, the article emphasizes the need for harmonization of standards and practices for impurity control, which is especially relevant in the context of the globalization of the pharmaceutical market. Harmonization not only enhances the safety and efficacy of pharmaceutical products but also improves patients' quality of life by reducing the risk of adverse effects associated with impurities. The article also explores prospects for further improvement of regulatory acts and the implementation of advanced technologies aimed at enhancing standardization and quality control in the pharmaceutical industry.
Peranan medan magnet dan campuran etanol-biodiesel minyak jelantah pada pembakaran droplet terhadap perilaku api dan emisi gas buang
Authors: Perdana D. , Fiyanto S.F.W.A.
Published: September 2024

Petroleum reserves are increasingly depleting, causing a scarcity of petroleum fuel caused by the rapid progress of transportation and the manufacturing industry. This condition forces researchers to search for and develop new renewable energy source. The purpose of research is to understanding and determines role of north-south (U-S) and south-south (S-S) magnetic fields to blend waste cooking oil biodiesel-ethanol on flame evolution, flue gas emissions, and temperature during droplet combustion. Waste cooking oil biodiesel and ethanol were used in this research by adding variations in the direction of repulsive and attractive magnetic fields with an intensity of 11000 gauss. Diameter of droplets tested was 0.3 mm and was placed on a type K thermocouple wire with diameter of 0.1 mm. This research found the role of attractive magnetic field (U-S) in blend waste cooking oil biodiesel-ethanol 20% to produce the shortest flame evolution of 704 ms, lowest CO of 165 ppm, and highest temperature of 828.5 oC. This happens because ethanol has a low flash point and large oxygen content, causing the combustion reaction to occur rapidly. The attractive of magnetic field (U-S) plays a role on attracting oxygen around flame to enter combustion reaction, while the H2O resulting from combustion is pumped out of flame.
Characteristics of Production Factors and Production of Zero Tillage System Rice Farming
Authors: Mukhlis Mukhlis , Ismawati Iis , Sillia Nova , Fitrianti Siska , Ukrita Indria , Wisra Raeza Firsta , Raflis Hidayat , Hendriani Riva , Hanum Latifa , Ibrahim Hasan , Nofianti Sri , Marta Andrik , Sari Nila
Published: September 2024

Zero tillage system is able to prepare the land for plants to grow and produce well by paying attention to the ecological balance of the environment, especially water and soil. The purpose of this study was to determine the characteristics of production factors and production characteristics of rice paddy farming with no-tillage system. This research used descriptive method, conducted in Taram village, Harau sub-district. Sample determination using snowball sampling method, with a total sample of 50 farmers. Data collection by interview using questionnaires for primary data and documentation method for secondary data. Data analysis used qualitative descriptive analysis with a triangulation approach. The results showed the characteristics of production factors include: paddy field area 0.25 - 2.0 ha, seed requirement 8 - 60 kg/acre, compost fertiliser 0.25 - 2 tonnes/acre, Urea fertiliser 25 - 200 kg, NPK Phonska fertiliser 25 - 200 kg, herbicide 1 - 3 litres, insecticide 1 - 2 litres, labour consists of labour within the family and labour outside the family, including: Labour and female labour, and capital consists of cash, hoes, and knapsack sprayers. The amount of farm labour can be reduced by up to 145%, especially in land preparation activities, because there is no tillage and only spraying of residual rice stalks and weeds. Rice production characteristics: Total production of 800 - 6,200 Kg/acre, with an average of 2,262.80 Kg. The selling price of rice production was IDR 7,500/kg - IDR 7,800/kg, with an average of IDR 7,710/Kg.
A luta pelo acesso a terra: perspectivas econômicas e sociais
Authors: Pereira Joabe Da Silva , Santos Raylane  Pereira  Dos , Silva José Danilo da
Published: September 2024

O presente trabalho condiz em uma pesquisa de campo sobre o processo de formação social e político da comunidade remanescente de quilombo da Caatinguinha. O estudo em questão não trata apenas do proce
The Palamas Archaeological Project 2023. A preliminary report of the Greek–Swedish collaboration in the municipality of Palamas, region of Karditsa, Thessaly
Authors: Vaïopoulou Maria , Rönnlund Robin , Tsiouka Fotini , Klange Johan , Pitman Derek , Randall Ian , Potter Rich , Manley Harry
Published: September 2024

The 2023 fieldwork in the area of Palamas, Thessaly, was severely hampered by catastrophic weather events affecting the area. In spite of this, the project managed to conduct excavations, surface and architectural surveys, as well as geophysical prospection at a number of sites in the region. The work continues to highlight the chronological breadth of archaeological remains in the area, as well as further details regarding little-known periods of Thessalian history.