bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Literature Study: Effectiveness of Using Interactive Media "Google Earth" in Social Studies Learning for Elementary School Students
Authors: Ria Rut Rima , Handayani Gati Sry
Published: September 2024

This research examines whether Google Earth learning media can help social studies students learn better. The researcher used descriptive qualitative method and literature study to collect data. The data was then analyzed using the Miles and Huberman model. The results showed that Google Earth is effective in improving social studies learning outcomes. The findings can help social studies teachers in choosing the right learning media to improve the quality of learning in the classroom.
Basic Education in the Era of Society 5.0: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Dermawan Heri , Sumarni Sri
Published: September 2024

In the context of technology integration in basic education in the Society 5.0 era, this research aims to explore the challenges, opportunities and impact on the curriculum, the role of teachers and the learning process. Through a qualitative literature study approach, we analyzed academic literature to understand how technology can influence curriculum development that is responsive to 21st century skills, the changing role of teachers as facilitators of digital learning, and the implementation of technology in interactive learning such as e-learning and game-based learning . The findings highlight the need for developing digital skills for teachers, as well as challenges related to technology accessibility and the digital divide among students. In conclusion, the integration of technology in basic education offers significant opportunities to improve the quality of learning, but requires cross-sector collaboration to ensure that all students can access technology equally to achieve inclusive and relevant education.
Study on the Impact and Response of the Implementation of Property Tax and Estate Tax on the Worldwide Asset Allocation of Chinese High Net Worth Individuals in the Context of Global Tax Reform
Authors: Liu Guanyu , Jia Lin , Zhang Hanqin
Published: September 2024

This paper examines the impact of property tax and estate tax implementations on high-net-worth individuals in China, offering insights into effective asset allocation and tax planning strategies to achieve legal tax optimization. It explores global asset diversification, the establishment of offshore trusts, family offices, strategic immigration planning, and philanthropy as mechanisms to mitigate tax liabilities while ensuring wealth preservation and compliance with evolving tax regulations. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive framework for navigating the complexities of wealth management in the face of significant fiscal policy changes.
"Volume" of Chinese Family Education: Analysis and Discussion of Formation Causes
Authors: Wang Can
Published: September 2024

The "volume" phenomenon of Chinese family education attention continues to rise in recent years, this paper for the Chinese family education "volume" phenomenon, through the relevant literature, different views, combined with social and cultural background and family education practice, to cause Chinese family education "volume" of multiple factors are analyzed. The study found that parents' educational anxiety, the intensification of social competition pressure, different economic advantages and resource access, the unbalanced distribution of educational resources, the bias of educational concepts and systems, and the intensification of psychological pressure are all important factors leading to the "coil" of family education in China. This paper further points out that family education should return to its essence and focus on the all-round development of children, rather than excessive pursuit of academic achievement and graduation rates. Finally, this paper puts forward countermeasures and suggestions to alleviate the trend of "roll" education, in order to promote the formation of healthier and balanced family education model and guide Chinese family education towards a more healthy and rational direction.
Study on the Legal Risks of Social Entities' Participation in Non-Emergency Transfers
Authors: Chen Ruiqiang
Published: September 2024

Non-emergency transfer multi-level protection system is an important livelihood project in China and an important diversified support for a sound Chinese-style modern social security system, as well as an ideal governance tool to effectively solve the problems of non-emergency demand crowding out the emergency capacity, unbalanced transfer resources and differences in the quality of service, imperfect management mechanism and laws and regulations, and low social acceptance. We use structural theory to analyse the main problems in the current practice of China's non-emergency transfer security system, accordingly construct the non-emergency transfer security system, and put forward suggestions to promote the development of the system in a benign cycle. Improve the internal resource allocation mechanism to enhance the efficiency of non-emergency transfer services; focus on the cultivation of the talent team to steadily improve the quality of services; optimise the management system and strengthen the articulation mechanism to boost patients' beliefs in recovery; and strengthen the all-round management of information technology for market supervision to deepen the emotional communication and connection.
Research on Rural Art Design and Brand Establishment
Authors: Liu Xinzhe , Luo Qing
Published: September 2024

Art helps rural revitalization, and various regions explore and practice based on actual analysis of the current situation. This article uses real cases to illustrate the relationship between rural art design and branding, drawing inspiration from the “Gesar King Tibetan Culture and Skills Park”. The park is dedicated to providing skills training and promoting Tibetan culture and Gesar culture among impoverished children in Tibetan areas. Currently, children in Tibetan schools have created their own brand of thangkas. Tibetan cultural, creative products, as well as highland specialties are highly popular. This not only improves the living environment, but also optimizes production, life, and ecological space through artistic design. This article delves into the Gesar King Tibetan Culture and Skills Park from the perspectives of the form, content, achievements, difficulties, and problems encountered in establishing a brand through the empowerment of art and culture in rural construction. It promotes Tibetan thangka art and daily applications, digital sales, and the residency and inheritance of artistic achievements, providing reference for more aspiring thangka artists in the future.
Status and Problems of ESG Information Disclosure in China
Authors: Wan Qiyuan
Published: September 2024

With the "14th Five-Year Plan" and the "Double Carbon" goal, as well as the world's attention to ecological and environmental pollution, the sustainable development of the economy has been widely concerned, and ESG, as an indicator of sustainable development, measures corporate sustainable development, fulfillment of social responsibility and future development of the enterprise in three aspects, i.e., environment (E) , social responsibility (S )    and  corporate governance (G), from a non-financial point of view, so ESG disclosure is extremely important. Based on this, this paper elaborates on the concept of ESG, analyzes the current status of ESG disclosure, and puts forward the existing problems for reference.
Technology-neutral Illusion: The Ethical and Social Challenges in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Gao Qifan , An Hongyu
Published: September 2024

The doctrine of technological neutrality posits that technology itself lacks moral value and it is only the use by humans that bestows value upon it. However, this perspective overlooks the social context of technology itself, as well as the political, economic, and cultural factors involved in its research, development, and application. In fact, technology not only reflects the value orientations of designers and users but also embodies the social structure and human behavior of a certain stage. Especially in the era of artificial intelligence, technology possesses the capability to operate autonomously, and the autonomous operation of technological products can present the value defects at the design stage in a scaled manner, leading to systemic biases and injustices. This paper analyzes the purpose of technological design and the power manipulation reflected in technological code, demonstrating that technology is not neutral and does not imply justice. Technology needs to be supervised and regulated by ethics, law, society, and other aspects to safeguard human interests and dignity.
Survey Analysis and Countermeasure Research on the Status of Street Vendor Economy around Universities
Authors: Li Qinghuan , Zhang Xiu , Hu Jun , Yang Yutong , Xiang Guoqing
Published: September 2024

Although the existence of street vendors around universities brings a lot of convenience to students' campus life, the problems of health and space hidden behind them should not be underestimated, and they have become a big problem for governance. This paper is based on the field survey results of Sichuan University of Science and Engineering, combined with the questionnaire data, from the analysis of the current situation of the street vendor economy, to explore the reasons for the prosperity of the street vendor economy around the universities and its problems, and put forward a rationalized countermeasure for the governance of the street vendor economy, in order to reduce the negative impact of the street vendor around the university and to ensure the healthy and orderly development of it.
Causes and Consequences of Foreign Language Speaking Anxiety among Chinese College Students
Authors: Zhao Ruohan
Published: September 2024

Speaking anxiety is the most prominent and common phenomenon in the process of foreign language learning. As one of the important affective factors, anxiety has a pivotal influence on students' motivation promotion, effect absorption, and the establishment of the thinking-acting pool in foreign language learning. In this article, we will try to analyse the causes of foreign language speaking anxiety among Chinese university students from the comprehensive perspectives of individual students, family expectations, educational resources, and domestic and international environments, and shed light on the related problems it leads to.
Forecasting Corn Futures Prices Using the LSTM Model
Authors: Gu Shiguang , Li Min
Published: September 2024

The central government's No. 1 document introduced new requirements for “maintaining the stability of agricultural product prices.” However, recent years have seen significant fluctuations in corn prices in China, highlighting the importance of exploring the trends of corn futures prices for stabilizing spot corn prices. Given the increasingly complex financial market environment, traditional linear econometric methods and machine learning approaches face inherent limitations in price forecasting. This study utilizes extensive data and applies the Long-Short Term Memory (LSTM) deep learning model to forecast corn futures prices. During the model training process, historical corn futures data were used as hidden input feature variables, along with additional indicators such as spot corn prices, real-time quotes from corn deep processing enterprises, downstream product prices in the corn industry chain, prices of similar substitutes, and the Baidu Search Index for “corn prices.” The model was trained and fine-tuned with hyperparameters to assess its predictive accuracy under different time windows, learning rates, and iteration counts. Experimental results indicate that incorporating external influencing factors significantly enhances the model's predictive accuracy compared to using only historical price data. The model with a learning rate of 0.01, 50 iterations, a time window of 5, and 4 hidden layers achieved the highest accuracy. The findings demonstrate that integrating external factors and optimizing hyperparameters substantially improve the LSTM model's predictive precision, outperforming models that rely solely on historical data. The study provides policy recommendations on promoting advanced technology, enhancing data collection and information sharing, and improving market transparency and fairness. Additionally, the conclusion discusses the extensive application potential and promising development prospects of the LSTM model in corn futures price forecasting. This model enables market participants to obtain more accurate market trend forecasts, facilitating more informed investment decisions. The research also offers new insights and methodological references for scholars in financial forecasting, contributing to the further advancement of this field.Funding:
This study was supported by the 2024 Key Research Project of Higher Education Institutions of the Henan Provincial Department of Education [Project Number 24B790006], the Henan Provincial Department of Education [Project Number 2021GGJS120], and the Henan Provincial Department of Education [Project Number 2021SJGLX478]. Additionally, this study received support from the Xinxiang City Federation of Social Sciences [Project Number SKL-2024-157].
E-commerce Platform in Digital Economy: Analysis and Optimization of Amazon's Footwear Store
Authors: Xiong Bowen , Sun Jianwei , Pang Xiangwen
Published: September 2024

With the continuous deepening of globalization, cross-border e-commerce has become an important part of global trade. Especially driven by digital payment technology, network technology, industrial upgrading and policy support, China's cross-border e-commerce industry has developed rapidly. This research aims to analyze the sales data of men's footwear on the Amazon platform, understand market trends, user behavior patterns, and product characteristics, and then provide data-supported marketing strategies and operational decisions for e-commerce platforms. We have adopted a variety of data analysis techniques, including data cleaning, ARIMA model prediction, price band analysis, repeat purchase rate analysis, user profiling (RFM model), sentiment analysis and cluster analysis. Through comprehensive analysis of multi-dimensional information such as store sales data, product attributes, market hot words, and user evaluations, market dynamics and user preferences are revealed. We have comprehensively applied a variety of data analysis models and techniques, such as using the ARIMA model for sales prediction, the LDA model for sentiment analysis, and the RFM model combined with cluster analysis to construct a refined user profile. Through in-depth analysis of user transaction behaviors and product attributes, accurate marketing strategies can be provided for e-commerce platforms, enhance user experience, increase user stickiness, and thus achieve business growth and improvement of profitability. At the same time, the research also points out the importance of brand building, supply chain management, risk assessment and other aspects, providing strategic suggestions for the long-term stable development of cross-border e-commerce.
Analysis of Parental Investment Mode of Multi-child Families in China——The Influence of Sex and Age on Parents' Investment Choice
Authors: Huang Yongtao , Xiao Yifan , Xu Yating
Published: September 2024

With the progress of society and economic development, the quality and quantity of parental investment have an important impact on the future achievements of children. This study will use questionnaires and interviews to explore the specific effects of child gender and age on parental investment choice in multi-child families, and analyze the history of parental investment, problems, challenges, and impacts in multi-child families. The research shows that the parental investment mode of parents in their children tends to be diversified and personalized; the possible problems include economic pressure, educational pressure, family relationship pressure and emotional investment imbalance; the gender and difference may challenge the shaping of mate selection and parenting concept; and the influence aspects include economic pressure, educational resources and change of family relationship.
Identifikasi Bakat Menggunakan Metode Sport Search pada Cabang Olahraga Atletik Nomor Tolak Peluru di Sekolah Menengah Pertama Negeri 2 Kabupaten Nganjuk
Authors: Eky Yulianto  , Irwan Setiawan  , Wasis Himawanto
Published: September 2024

Penelitian ini dilatar belakangi dengan hasil pengamatan langsung bahwa belum diketahui bakat di Sekolah Menegah Pertama Negeri 2 Nganjuk bahwa sebagian siswa kurang mendapatkan perhatian dari sekolah khususnya olahraga atletik nomor tolak peluru, sehingga untuk mendapatkan bibit atlet sangat sulit di tingkat sekolah. Tujuan dari penelitian yaitu untuk mengetahui bakat di sekolah Menegah Pertama Negeri 2 Nganjuk tahun 2024. Dalam Undang-Undang No. 3 Tahun 2005 tentang Sistem Keolahragaan Nasional (SKN) Indonesia, istilah yang sebelumnya digunakan untuk "olahraga masyarakat" diubah menjadi "olahraga rekreasi". Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan deskriptif kuantitatif dengan metode survei. Subjek pada penelitian ini adalah sekolah Menegah Pertama Negeri 2 Nganjuk dengan sampel 36 orang yang diambil Sebagian penelitian populasi, Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan instrumen berupa tes bakat berupa metode Sport Search. Kesimpulan dari hari penelitian identifikasi bakat dari modifikasi 6 item tes bakat menunjukkan bahwa 36 siswa yang mengikuti tes yang memiliki bakat dalam cabang olahraga tolak peluru pada usia 13 sampai 14 tahun terdapat 0 (0%) peserta yang masuk kriteria sangat potensial, 0 (0%) peserta yang masuk kriteria potensial, 6 peserta (17%) yang tergolong cukup potensial, 13 peserta (36%) yang tergolong kurang potensial, 17 peserta (47%) yang tergolong tidak potensial.
Quelques questions pour une anthropologie politique avec des archives
Authors: Naepels Michel
Published: September 2024

Je me propose de décrire les manières dont mes recherches en anthropologie politique dans des zones rurales ayant connu un gouvernement colonial (français en Nouvelle-Calédonie, belge en République démocratique du Congo) m’ont conduit à réfléchir aux apports et aux difficultés de l’usage d’archives (privées, missionnaires, administratives) en lien avec la compréhension de situations sociales contemporaines (coloniales ou post-coloniales). Je me focaliserai particulièrement sur les conditions de production, de conservation et d’accès à des archives pertinentes pour une anthropologie politique du contemporain. Chemin faisant, je m’interrogerai sur la nature des liens pouvant exister entre production étatique d’archives sur des mondes sociaux colonisés et administration indirecte, à partir de ma pratique d’enquête avec des archives.
Tightening tax policy and changes to tax efficiency on the example of companies listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange
Authors: Kowalski Michał , Nesterak Janusz
Published: September 2024

The article presents an analysis of changes in the tax efficiency of companies listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange. After 2017, some changes to the tax law aimed at tightening the regulations on an unprecedented scale were introduced. The research conducted showed that since 2018 there has been a decrease in tax efficiency measured with effective tax rate (ETR) and current effective tax rate (CETR). On average, in 2018–2019, the efficiency measured with CETR dropped by 17.7%, the median by 14.8% compared to the previous years. In 2018 and 2019, the value of the CETR was the highest in the entire analyzed period, i.e. from 2012 to 2019. At the same time, the propensity of companies to create deferred tax assets is declining, and the effective tax rate is also growing. The changes mainly concern companies with average tax efficiency, large entities forming capital groups, and companies implementing capital investments. The article presents a discussion on the observed trends and formulates directions for further research.
Introduction of a general class of entropy-based control charts: The Φ-chart
Authors: Mangold Benedikt , Konopik Jens
Published: September 2024

We introduce a new class of Shewhart control charts, namely the f-chart. This new class is based on the cumulative paired f-divergence that generalizes both the cumulative (residual) entropy and the differential entropy. The f-chart contains several subclasses; of which one has a special case, the G-chart, which uses Gini’s mean difference as a measure of dispersion. We investigate the performance of three of the subclasses of f-charts in a showcase scenario, comparing its average run length under the Gaussian and several alternative distributions relevant to process control. We find especially the new Leik control chart to outperform classical Shewhart charts, which are based on ranks, standard deviation, or Gini’s mean difference. The results imply that monitoring a production process using f-charts results in faster detection of out-of-control processes, which can be crucial for a variety of application areas.
Noncaloric monosaccharides induce excessive sprouting angiogenesis in zebrafish via foxo1a-marcksl1a signal
Authors: Wang Xiaoning , Zhao Jinxiang , Xu Jiehuan , Li Bowen , Liu Xia , Xie Gangcai , Duan Xuchu , Liu Dong
Published: September 2024

Artificially sweetened beverages containing noncaloric monosaccharides were suggested as healthier alternatives to sugar-sweetened beverages. Nevertheless, the potential detrimental effects of these noncaloric monosaccharides on blood vessel function remain inadequately understood. We have established a zebrafish model that exhibits significant excessive angiogenesis induced by high glucose, resembling the hyperangiogenic characteristics observed in proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). Utilizing this model, we observed that glucose and noncaloric monosaccharides could induce excessive formation of blood vessels, especially intersegmental vessels (ISVs). The excessively branched vessels were observed to be formed by ectopic activation of quiescent endothelial cells (ECs) into tip cells. Single-cell transcriptomic sequencing analysis of the endothelial cells in the embryos exposed to high glucose revealed an augmented ratio of capillary ECs, proliferating ECs, and a series of upregulated proangiogenic genes. Further analysis and experiments validated that reduced
foxo1a
mediated the excessive angiogenesis induced by monosaccharides via up-regulating the expression of
marcksl1a
. This study has provided new evidence showing the negative effects of noncaloric monosaccharides on the vascular system and the underlying mechanisms.
Realistic nitrate concentrations diminish reproductive indicators in Skiffia lermae, an endemic species in critical endangered status
Authors: Villa-Villaseñor Ivette Marai , Herrera-Vargas Ma. Antonia , Yáñez-Rivera Beatriz , Uribe Mari Carmen , Rueda-Jasso Rebeca Aneli , Phillips-Farfán Bryan V. , Mar-Silva Valentin , Meléndez-Herrera Esperanza , Domínguez-Domínguez Omar
Published: September 2024

Goodeinae is a subfamily of critically endangered fish native to central Mexico. Populations of Skiffia lermae, a species belonging to this subfamily, have significantly decreased in the past two decades. A previous study showed that S. lermae is sensitive to acute nitrate-nitrogen (NO3-N) exposure, leading to noticeable changes in both behavioral and histopathological bioindicators. The aim herein was to determine the vulnerability of S. lermae to NO3-N exposure at realistic concentrations registered in freshwater ecosystems in central Mexico where the species was historically reported. Offspring of S. lermae were chronically exposed during 60 days to concentrations of 5, 10 and 20 mg NO3-N/L, with 2 mg NO3-N/L used as the reference value (control). Survival rate, feeding behavior, aquatic surface respiration, body growth, scaled mass index, immature red blood cells, as well as histopathological changes in branchial, hepatic and gonadal tissues were evaluated. Additionally, this study analyzed water quality in freshwater ecosystems where S. lermae presently persists. The results showed decreased survival as NO3-N concentration increased, as well as increased feeding latency, aquatic surface respiration and histological damage in the gills and liver. These organs showed differential sex-dependent responses to NO3-N exposure; females were more sensitive than males. In the ovaries, a decreased density of stage III oocytes was associated with increased NO3-N concentrations. No changes were observed in body growth and number of immature red blood cells. Concentrations recorded in the three freshwater ecosystems that S. lermae inhabit were below 2 mg NO3-N/L. Together, the results could explain why the species has disappeared from more contaminated freshwater ecosystems where NO3-N levels exceed 5 mg/L. Moreover, the study warns about the risks of increasing NO3-N concentrations in the current sites where the species lives.
Caracterización mecánica de piezas impresas en LPBF por técnica de ultrasonido: análisis de la razón de Poisson
Authors:   , López Norambuena Maximiliano Fabrizzio
Published: September 2024

La investigación se centra en la caracterización mecánica de piezas de SS316L impresas en 3D mediante LPBF (Laser Powder Bed Fusión), en particular, el análisis de la razón de Poisson a través de técnicas de ultrasonido. El objetivo es extender la aplicación de ondas ultrasónicas para medir tensiones residuales en probetas impresas en el rango elasto-plástico. Se realizaron ensayos de tracción, compresión y dureza, así como mediciones de densidad y tiempo de vuelo de ondas longitudinales y transversales, para evaluar las propiedades mecánicas y la razón de Poisson en diferentes condiciones. Los resultados muestran la influencia de la densidad, los parámetros de construcción y la orientación de las capas en la razón de Poisson, así como los cambios frente a esfuerzos y tratamientos térmicos. Finalmente, se propone un método para medir tensiones residuales en LPBF.
Examining the Impact of Myofascial Release and Chest Mobility Exercises on Functional Scoliosis: A Case Report
Authors: Rahane Rohit Balasaheb , Ranganathan Arunmozhi , Raj Priya
Published: September 2024

Scoliosis is characterised by lateral spinal curvature, twisting of the spine and chest, and abnormalities in the sagittal profile. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in preventing the progression of scoliosis and its associated deformities, and in improving outcomes and quality of life. However, specific treatment methods for correcting the curvature and enhancing function are not extensively documented. Therefore, the present case report incorporated several techniques. A 17-year-old male visited the Physiotherapy Department with complaints of continuous pain in his lower back for the past 45 days. Due to the pain, the patient was not able to play football and sleep properly. Additionally, there was a notable postural deviation with a history of more than six years. His parents ignored his walking as stylish. Moreover, the patient stated that he had continuous pain, was not able to bend the spine backward, concentrate on studies and attend social gatherings. Upon spinal examination, scoliosis with a dropped right shoulder was observed. The patient was effectively treated using Myofascial Release (MFR) techniques combined with exercises to improve chest mobility. After management, the pain score showed a reduction, and there was improvement in the disability questionnaire. Significant changes were also noted in X-ray assessments and Range of Motion (ROM).
Evaluation of Antioxidant, Antibacterial, and Anti-hemolytic Properties of Ethanol Extract from Plectranthus barbatus Andrews (Lamiaceae) Leaves
Authors: Cavalcanti Janeffer Lemberg Messias Barboza , Santos Lucas Gabriel Pita dos , Alves João Victor de Oliveira , Almeida Welton Aaron de , Coutinho Gabriel da Silva , Araújo Alex Michel Silva , Ferreira Gustavo Ramos Salles , Siqueira Ana Beatriz Sotero , Ferreira Magda Rhayanny Assunção , Soares Luiz Alberto Lira , Cruz Rômulo Carlos Dantas da , Souza Ivone Antônia de , Correia Maria Tereza dos Santos , Silva Marcia Vanusa da , Napoleão Thiago Henrique , Pontual Emmanuel Viana
Published: September 2024

Polyphenols can act as antioxidants, antibacterial, antifungal, or insecticidal agents. Given that microbial infections and arboviruses transmitted by Aedes aegypti significantly contribute to global morbidity and mortality, there is an urgent need to discover new antimicrobials and insecticides. This study investigated the ethanol extract (PbLE) of Plectranthus barbatus Andrews (Lamiaceae) leaves for its chemical constituents, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-hemolytic, and larvicidal activities. Qualitative analysis by Thin Layer Chromatography revealed cinnamic derivatives, flavonoids, terpenes, and steroids in PbLE. Quantitative analysis showed that PbLE contained 98.64 ± 0.87 mg EAG/g of total phenols, with flavonoids comprising 21.84 ± 0.34 mg EQ/g (c.a. 22%). PbLE demonstrated scavenging activity against ABTS+ (IC50 = 3246.00 ± 0.97 µg/mL) and DPPH (IC50 = 1371.75 ± 0.94 µg/mL) free radicals and exhibited reducing ability in the phosphomolybdenum method (IC50 = 899.33 ± 0.73 µg/mL). Although PbLE did not affect the growth or survival of pathogenic microorganisms, it significantly reduced (c.a. 80% for the extract at 256 mg/mL) the hemolysis caused by Staphylococcus aureus in human erythrocytes. Furthermore, PbLE (7 mg/mL) caused 40% mortality of A. aegypti third-instar larvae after 48-h exposure. In conclusion, PbLE, rich in phenolic compounds, acts as an antioxidant that mitigates S. aureus virulence to human erythrocytes and reduces the viability of A. aegypti larvae. The data reported herein contribute to the science by exploring P. barbatus, a medicinal plant with a long history of traditional use, as source of bioactive compounds with pharmacological and insecticidal properties. The determination of LC50 and mechanisms of PbLE larvicidal activity are underway.
Evaluation of Nutritional and Antioxidant Properties of Cola cordifolia Seeds
Authors: Fabrice Zoro Armel , Souleymane Soumahoro , Alassane Coulibaly Tialafolo , Fulbert Oussou Kouamé , Abdoulaye Toure
Published: September 2024

Cola cordifolia is a natural substance rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds. It is important to incorporate it into the diet to prevent certain metabolic diseases and to improve the nutritional and health status of populations. This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional and antioxidant properties of C. cordifolia seeds for their potential use in the dietary field. The seeds were fermented for 6 days and then sun-dried for 15 days. Nutritional and antioxidant properties were determined using referenced methods. Nutritional analysis showed that the seeds are rich in calcium (880 mg/100g), magnesium (600 mg/100g), iron (50 mg/100g), proteins (17.93%), and lipids (10.85%). Seeds exhibited significant levels of polyphenols (705.15 mg/100g), tannins (267.52 mg/100g), and flavonoids (20.17 mg/100g), with an antioxidant activity of 62.45% inhibition of DPPH. This study suggests that C. cordifolia seeds could be used as a dietary supplement to prevent metabolic diseases.
Effect of Leaf and Seed Powder Based Edible Coating with Beeswax and Clove Essential Oil on the Shelf Life of Guava (Psidium guajava) cv. Allahabad Safeda
Authors: Himanshu  , Saxena Deepika
Published: September 2024

The guava is thought to be India's most significant commercial fruit crop. Due to their high respiration rate, vulnerability to different pathogens, and mechanical damage that can quickly deteriorate the quality and concised its shelf life. Nonetheless, the purpose of the experiment was to investigate how guava's edible coatings affected its postharvest quality and shelf life. Guava fruits were treated by seven treatments of different concentrations of beeswax, guava leaf powder, neem leaf powder, tamarind seed powder, and clove oil with different combinations were used as edible coating were studied in a Factorial Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three replications. All seven treatments were used to examine the impact of edible coating materials on the physical and chemical properties. Under ambient conditions, the variations in physiological and chemical parameters were seen. The findings of present study showed maximum fruit weight (120.29 g), highest vitamin C (163.19 mg/100g), maximum acidity (0.49%) and antioxidant activity (35.43%) obtained from T4 [Neem leaves powder (2%) + Beeswax (1%)+ clove oil (1%)] compared with untreated fruits. The result suggested that the applications of [Neem leaves powder (2%) + Beeswax (1%) + clove oil (1%)] as an edible coating material in guava fruit is more effective than other treatments to improve the shelf life of Guava.
Leadership Styles and Effectiveness of Female Officers in the US Military: A Historical Perspective and Recent Developments
Authors: Odiete Faith
Published: September 2024

Aims: This study aims to provide a concise historical perspective and summarize recent developments in leadership styles and effectiveness of female officers in the US military. The review focuses on the evolving roles of women in military leadership, the predominant leadership styles employed, and their effectiveness in the contemporary military context.
Study Design: A narrative study of peer-reviewed articles and official military reports published primarily within the last decade (2013-2023).
Methodology: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using military and leadership databases, including JSTOR, Military & Government Collection, and Leadership Studies. The review prioritized empirical studies, policy analyses, and authoritative reviews published in reputable journals and official military publications.
Results: The study reveals a significant increase in leadership opportunities for female officers over the past decade. Transformational and adaptive leadership styles are predominant among female officers. They have demonstrated effectiveness in team cohesion, crisis management, conflict resolution, and mentorship. In some areas, such as strategic thinking and innovative problem-solving, female officers show comparable or superior performance to their male counterparts. However, challenges related to gender stereotypes and work-life balance persist.
Conclusion: While substantial progress has been made in integrating women into military leadership roles, continued efforts are needed to address remaining barriers. The unique contributions of female officers to military leadership, particularly in areas of team cohesion and adaptive problem-solving, warrant further research and recognition in military doctrine and training programs.
Leaf Area Index, Photosynthesis and Chlorophyll Content Influences Yield and Quality of Nanasaheb Purple Seedless Grapes under Semi-arid Condition
Authors: Somkuwar R. G. , Kakade P. B. , Jadhav A. S. , Ausari P. K. , Nikumbhe P. H. , Deshmukh N. A.
Published: September 2024

Canopy management practices in grapes are crucial for achieving high-quality production. The study was conducted with different treatments of number of leaves above the bunch (10, 12, 14, 16, and >16 leaves).  Significant variation was recorded on photosynthetic activity, yield and quality of Nanasaheb Purple Seedless grape variety. The increase in leaf number enhanced total leaf area and photosynthetic capacity while, it had negative impact on bunch weight, berry size and total soluble solids (TSS). Retaining 10 leaves above bunch with leaf area of 1980.00 cm2 /bunch resulted in maximum bunch weight (450.20 g), 50-berry weight (250.13 g) and yield/vine (13.60 kg) while, minimum bunch weight (400.00 g), 50-berry weight (222.30 g) and yield/vine (11.22 kg) were observed by retaining >16 leaves above the bunch.  However, retaining 10 leaves above the bunch on a shoot with leaf area/shoot (2475.00 cm2), leaf area/vine (59400.00 cm2), leaf area/bunch (1980.00 cm2) and leaf area/g berry weight (4.36 cm2/g) were sufficient to obtain good quality production in Nanasaheb Purple Seedless grape variety spaced at 9 feet X 5 feet distance.
Acute cortical deafness in a child with MELAS syndrome
Authors: Pittet Marie P. , Idan Roni B. , Kern Ilse , Guinand Nils , Van Hélène Cao , Toso Seema , Fluss Joël
Published: April 2016

Auditory impairment in mitochondrial disorders are usually due to peripheral sensorineural dysfunction. Central deafness is only rarely reported. We report here an 11‐year‐old boy with MELAS syndrome who presented with subacute deafness after waking up from sleep. Peripheral hearing loss was rapidly excluded. A brain MRI documented bilateral stroke‐like lesions predominantly affecting the superior temporal lobe, including the primary auditory cortex, confirming the central nature of deafness. Slow recovery was observed in the following weeks. This case serves to illustrate the numerous challenges caused by MELAS and the unusual occurrence of acute cortical deafness, that to our knowledge has not be described so far in a child in this setting.
Radical‐Initiated Reaction of Methyl Linoleate with Dialkyl Phosphites
Authors: Bantchev Grigor B. , Biresaw Girma , Palmquist Debra E. , Murray Rex E.
Published: April 2016

The addition of dialkyl phosphite (methyl, ethyl and n‐butyl) to methyl linoleate (MeLin) double bonds was investigated. The reaction proved to be more challenging than the analogous reaction with methyl oleate (MeOl), due to inhibition of the radical reaction by the bis‐allylic hydrogens of MeLin and the lower reactivity of MeLin double bonds. However, we demonstrated that this self‐inhibition problem can be solved by simply keeping the MeLin reagent at low concentrations, while keeping the dialkyl phosphite at high concentrations. For optimization of the reaction, four different radical initiators were investigated: dilauroyl peroxide (LP), 2,2′‐azobis(2‐methylpropionitrile) (AIBN), tert‐butyl perbenzoate (t‐BP), and tert‐butyl peroxide (TOOT). The initiators were used at temperatures that provided a half‐life of 10 h: 64, 64, 104, and 125 °C respectively for LP, AIBN, t‐BP, and TOOT. The tests showed the reaction to be faster at higher temperatures, but transesterification of the ester groups was also observed at elevated temperatures. t‐BP was chosen as an optimal initiator for carrying the reaction. The apparent order of reactivity of the dimethyl, diethyl and di‐n‐butyl phosphites (Me >Et >n‐Bu) towards MeLin was due to differences in their molar volumes. When the concentrations of dialkyl phosphite were kept the same, the order reversed (n‐Bu > Et~Me). GC–MS spectra of the resulting phosphonates are reported and the main fragments assigned.
Influence of Different Factors on the Particle Size Distribution and Solid Fat Content of Water‐in‐Oil Emulsions
Authors: Pérez María P. , Wagner Jorge R. , Márquez Andrés L.
Published: April 2016

The influence of the variation of different parameters on the particle size distribution and solid fat content (SFC) of water‐in‐oil emulsions was studied. The use of solid fat instead of liquid oil, higher polyglycerol polyricinoleate (PGPR) concentration, or higher homogenization energy led to smaller mean particle sizes. The decrease of the emulsifier/water ratio turned the particle size distribution of the emulsions from bimodal to trimodal. The increase of PGPR concentration increased the SFC of the fat in the absence of water, but it did not produce the same effect in the emulsion. This result suggested that the presence of dispersed aqueous phase prevented the modifying action of the emulsifier on the crystallization of the continuous lipid phase. The experimentation indicated that the adsorption of the surfactant at the interface would reduce its availability to affect crystallization in bulk fat, as the SFC in lipid phase decreased with increasing interfacial area.
First Reported Case of Fatal Stinging by the Large Carpenter Bee Xylocopa tranquebarica
Authors: Kularatne Senanayake A.M. , Raveendran Sathasivam , Edirisinghe Jayanthi , Karunaratne Inoka , Weerakoon Kosala
Published: April 2016

In the order Hymenoptera, bees, hornets, and wasps are well-known stinging insects whose envenoming can be fatal. Their stinging attacks are common in rural and forested areas of Sri Lanka. However, fatal stinging by the large-bodied carpenter bees is unreported. We report the first known case of a fatal sting by the large carpenter bee, Xylocopa tranquebarica, in a forested area in Puttalam (North Western Province) in the dry zone of Sri Lanka. A 59-year-old healthy male manual laborer accompanied by a fellow worker had been fixing a fence on a coconut estate bordering a forested area when a flying insect emerged from a dead tree trunk and stung him on his face. His coworker, who was watching the incident, killed the insect. The victim complained of immediate intense pain in the face and collapsed on the ground just after resuming work after 10 minutes of resting. He was found dead on admission to the hospital 90 minutes later. Autopsy showed normal coronary arteries and heart, but the lungs were slightly congested and contained secretions in the bronchi. Acute anaphylaxis was the most likely cause of death. This case presents the habitat, morphology, attack pattern, and the medical importance of large carpenter bees.
Under One Roof: Supply Chains and the Protection of Foreign Investment
Authors: JOHNS LESLIE , WELLHAUSEN RACHEL L.
Published: April 2016

We argue that economic links, such as supply chains, can create a common roof that protects foreign investors in host countries that lack strong institutions to protect property rights. Supply chains link the activities of firms: when a host government breaks a contract with one firm, other firms in the supply chain are harmed. These partner firms therefore have incentive to protect one another’s property rights. This leads to the key implication of our argument: host governments are less likely to violate the property rights of firms that are more tightly linked with other firms in the host economy. We test our argument with cross-national data on investment arbitration, a survey of US multinational subsidiaries in Russia, and case studies from Azerbaijan. Our findings imply that one benefit of outsourcing in developing and transition economies is the creation of a network of partner firms that protect each other’s property rights.
SCALE IN THE BALANCE: READING WITH THE INTERNATIONAL PRIZE FOR ARABIC FICTION (“THE ARABIC BOOKER”)
Authors: McManus Anne-Marie E.
Published: April 2016

This article brings area studies approaches to Arabic novels into dialogue with world literature through a critical engagement with the International Prize for Arabic Fiction (IPAF), commonly known as “the Arabic Booker.” This prize launches Arabic novels out of national fields and into a world marketplace whose reading practices have been shaped by the Anglophone postcolonial novel, canonized by the IPAF's mentor: the Booker Prize Foundation. Against this institutional backdrop, the article develops a scale-based method to revisit the intersection of postcolonial tropes and national epistemologies in two winning IPAF novels: Bahaʾ Taher'sWahat al-Ghurub(Sunset Oasis, 2007) and Saud Alsanousi'sSaq al-Bambu(The Bamboo Stalk, 2013). By interrogating the literary and political work performed by comparative scale in these novels, the article argues that dominant applications of theoretical methods inherited from postcolonial studies fail to supply trenchant forms of critique for Arabic novels entering world literature. Bridging the methods and perspectives of area studies with those of comparative literature, this article develops new reading practices that are inflected through contemporary institutional settings for literature's circulation, translation, and canonization.
Studying Human Rights in the Middle East: Lingua Franca of Global Politics or Forked Tongue of Donors?
Authors: Allen Lori
Published: April 2016

The study of human rights has gone through many phases, and the boom in the scholarly industry of human rights studies has yielded many subspecialties, including human rights in particular regions and the intersections of human rights with different religious traditions. One principal area of discussion likely to be of interest to readers of this journal has been the question of Muslim women's human rights and the role of religion in this respect. The problem was often presented as primarily an ideological one, a conflict between a local tradition, Islam, and the global demands for human rights.
Heterorhabditis pakistanensen. sp. (Nematoda: Heterorhabditidae) a new entomopathogenic nematode from Pakistan
Authors: Shahina F. , Tabassum K.A. , Salma J. , Mehreen G. , Knoetze R.
Published: April 2016

A new entomopathogenic nematode species ofHeterorhabditis, described asH. pakistanensen. sp., was isolated from soil samples around the roots of grass at Malir, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan. The new species is characterized morphologically by features of males: body size 819 μm (720–1013 μm), D% ((distance from anterior end to excretory pore divided by pharynx length) × 100) 119 (110–126), SW% ((spicule length divided by anal body diameter) × 100) 156 (144–191), GS% ((gubernaculum length divided by spicule length) × 100) 58 (48–65) and variations in the number of bursal papillae of the terminal group: 8th and 9th papillae sometimes absent on both sides, sometimes eight papillae present on the right side whereas six papillae present on the left side. On the right side the arrangement of papillae is 1 + 2 + 3 + 2 whereas on the left side it is 1 + 2 + 3. The hermaphrodite has a prominent post-anal swelling and a conoid tail 82 μm (64–95 μm) long with a pointed terminus. Hermaphrodites ofH. pakistanensen. sp. can be distinguished from all species ofHeterorhabditisexceptH. downesiby having a mucronate tail. Infective juveniles have a medium-sized body (581 μm (558–624 μm)), long pharynx (117 μm (113–125 μm)), ensheathed tail (99 μm (95–110 μm)) and E% ((distance from anterior end to excretory pore divided by tail length) × 100) 100 (95–107). The new species can be distinguished from all species ofHeterorhabditisby the absence of the 7th, 8th and 9th bursal papillae.Heterorhabditis pakistanenseis further characterized by the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and the D2D3 region of the 28S rDNA gene. The closest speciesH. indica, H. gerrardi, H. amazonensisandH. noenieputensisbeing separated by 9, 7, 66 and 15 bp, respectively, in the ITS region. Molecular phylogenetic trees based on sequences of ITS rDNA, D2D3 regions and the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene support the description ofH. pakistanenseas a new species.
The production-oriented approach to teaching university students English in China
Authors: Wen Qiufang
Published: April 2016

The production-oriented approach (POA) has been developed over ten years to overcome the weaknesses in English instruction in tertiary education in Mainland China. The POA tries to integrate the strengths of Western instructional approaches with Chinese contextual features and consists of three components: (a) teaching principles; (b) teaching hypotheses; and (c) teacher-mediated teaching processes. The teaching principles include ‘learning-centered’, ‘learning-using integration’, and ‘whole-person education’, and the teaching hypotheses are ‘output-driven’, ‘input-enabled’, and ‘selective learning’. The teaching processes contain three phases, each mediated by the teacher: motivating, enabling, and assessing. The three principles set guidelines for the other two components; the three hypotheses serve as a theoretical basis for the teaching process; the three-phase teaching process reflects and illustrates the principles while testing the hypotheses.