bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Penataan Keterpaduan Undang-Undang Pertambangan Dengan Metode Omnibus Law Dalam Sistem Hukum Civil Law
Authors: Apriadi Bahri Rizki
Published: August 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui metode atau teknik dalam pembentukan undang-undang, dalam hal ini metode atau teknik untuk melakukan pembentukan atau perubahan sekaligus atas beberapa undang-undang yang ada dan berlaku sebelumnya. metode yang digunakan adalah yuridis normatif, dengan hasil penelitian yaitu Penerapan metode omnibus law memiliki banyak kelebihan untuk menyelesaikan disharmoni regulasi di Indonesia. Kelebihan tersebut antara lain dapat mengatasi konflik peraturan perundang-undangan baik vertikal maupun horizontal secara cepat, efektif dan efisien. Selain itu mampu menyeragamkan kebijakan pemerintah baik di tingkat pusat maupun di daerah untuk menunjang iklim investasi. dengan digagasnya konsep omnibus law Cipta Kerja di Indonesia merupakan suatu reformasi regulasi yang tepat dalam penerapannya serta berdampak positif bagi kemajuan iklim usaha investasi demi terwujudnya kesejahteraan rakyat Indonesia, dengan penyederhanaan regulasi yang menyebabkan kemudahan para investor dalam hal melakukan berbagai prosedur izin usahanya di Indonesia dan terjadi harmonisasi dan sinkronisasi terhadap reformasi regulasi omnibus law di Indonesia. Sehingga dapat menimbulkan kepastian hukum dan perlindungan hukum bagi para pelaku usaha di Indonesia.
Lahirnya Mediasi Penal Dilihat dari KUHP Lama dan KUHP Baru
Authors: Mardiansyah Yogi , Harmaini Harmaini , Sasmita Ruwaiza
Published: August 2024

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui Lahirnya Mediasi Penal Dilihat Dari Kuhp Dan Rancangan Kuhp Yang Terbaru dalam mendorong efektivitas penyelesaian perkara pidana. Spesifikasi penilitian dalam skripsi ini adalah penilitian bidang hukum yang berbentuk deskriptif, dengan mengambarkan secara terperinci tentang lahirnya mediasi penal dilihat dari kuhp dan rancangan kuhp yang terbaru. Dari latar belakang didapati hasil bahwa Mediasi penal yang telah dilakukan oleh Masyarakat dalam menyelesaikan tindak pidana dan adanya aspirasi dari masyarakat terhadap mekanisme peradilan yang diinginkan, serta adanya potensi untuk bisa diakomodasi secara yuridis yakni dalam KUHP dan KUHAP maka hal tersebut merupakan suatu kajian yang menarik untuk diteliti, ditambah dengan bagaimana pengakuan masyarakat adat dari sisi HAM dan Masyarakat Desa. Penulis mengharapkan Aturan-aturan mengenai mediasi penal itu sendiri  harus dapat memenuhi rasa keadilan para pihak, terutama karena tidak semua kasus perlu diselesaikan sampai persidangan, untuk itu dibutuhkan kesadaran semua pihak yang terlibat
Penerapan Jaminan Fidusia dalam Pinjaman Online
Authors: Uli Kurniati Siregar Ade
Published: August 2024

Jaminan Fidusia merupakan salah satu bentuk jaminan yang diatur dalam hukum Indonesia dan sering digunakan dalam transaksi pinjaman, termasuk dalam pinjaman online. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji penerapan jaminan fidusia dalam konteks pinjaman online di Indonesia, mengevaluasi perlindungan hukum bagi kreditor dan debitor, serta mengidentifikasi tantangan yang dihadapi dalam implementasinya. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah studi literatur dan analisis kasus untuk memahami bagaimana peraturan fidusia diterapkan pada pinjaman online dan dampaknya terhadap transaksi keuangan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa meskipun jaminan fidusia memberikan perlindungan hukum yang baik bagi kreditor, terdapat sejumlah kendala dalam pelaksanaannya, seperti kurangnya sosialisasi dan pemahaman tentang jaminan fidusia di kalangan debitor dan pelaku industri fintech. Penelitian ini menyarankan perlunya reformasi regulasi dan peningkatan edukasi untuk memastikan penerapan jaminan fidusia yang efektif dalam pinjaman online.
Restorative Quality Assessment of Academic - An Islamic Motivation for Circular Nation-Building
Authors: Arniza Ghazali  , Fatimah Sofiah Fadzlee
Published: August 2024

A circular nation-building initiative emphasising zero-dysfunctionality is an urgent step to restore national education. The nose-diving performance in the 2022 Programme for International Student Assessment, PISA 2022, is a wake-up call to power up the people manning the education sector. The study analysed and identified the alarming situations signalling the urgent need for rectification based on the empirical data acquired over 30 years. The analysis points to evidence of fake claims of performance in academia as the main hub of human resource development and the primary factor that shadows the loopholes of education quality. Springboarding from there, the study recommends steps for the betterment of the sector. Qualitative assessment of academic staff via restorative assessment (RES-Q) measure assimilating the functional from the dysfunctional academics is the identified first step. Functionality, in this regard, is defined by the functions aligned to the fulfilment of national needs. Local universities' declining popularity prompted RES-Q map construction for root cause-to-solution to uplift the education sector. Detailing educator assessment needs leads to RES-Q inquisitive analysis to detect and fix issues without derailing from the national strategic alignment (NSA). Deploying RES-Q today should empower educators and in turn, revive learners’ interests in tertiary education. Through the corrected cycle of critical mass, the reshuffling of academics based on their dominant strengths must be pursued. The talent appropriation strategy is commensurate with the gratefulness in Islamic morality that simultaneously forbids the waste of resources.
Faktor Ekstralinguistik Terhadap Penguasaan Kemahiran Lisan didalam Pengajaran dan Pembelajaran Bahasa Arab
Authors: Mohamad Faizal Amat @ Mohd Yusoff  , Siti Nur Izyandiyana Ab Hadi
Published: August 2024

Various reforms and updates in teaching and learning have been carried out by the Ministry of education, but the mastery of oral skills among students is still not encouraging. The average study conducted found that the mastery of the Arabic language (BA) in Malaysia is still not able to achieve real goals and objectives. One of the factors affecting language skills is extralinguistics. Extralinguistics refers to linguistic situations outside the linguistic environment, such as motivation, emotion, attitude, personality, and the like, that are proven to help a student master a particular language. Therefore, this study identifies extralinguistic factors on BA Communication among Sijil Tinggi Agama Malaysia students in Perak. This study was conducted quantitatively at Sekolah Menengah Agama Negeri (SMAN) which offers learning to sit for the Sijil Tinggi Agama (STAM) examination in the state of Perak. Results indicated that there are five extralinguistic factors on BA Communication, namely attitude, motivation, Arabic exposure, use of BA, Communication problems and teacher encouragement. It can be concluded that there is a strong relationship between attitude factors and the use of SK among students of STAM Perak. This study implies the importance of providing a conducive and supportive learning environment to improve Arabic communication skills among STAM students. Further studies are proposed to examine in depth the factors related to the use of technology in Arabic language learning and the impact on the communication strategies of STAM students.
Kesan Modul Terapi Realiti (MTR) Terhadap Ciri-ciri dan Kemurungan Mangsa Buli dari Perspektif Islam
Authors: Nik Hassan, N.N.  , Hashim, F. H.  , Muhammad Shah, N.S.  , Mazlan, F. N.  , Ibrahim, I.
Published: August 2024

Sound rhythm is one of the factors that make the sound of the Holy Quran rhythmic and synchronous that change the rhythm of human brain waves. However, less studies have been found, and previous studies have focused more on the end rhyme system (end faselah) of the verses of the Qur'an. Thus, we conducted an acoustic phonetic study on the rhyming system in the verses of the Qur'an which is the source of the rhythmic sound in the verses of the Qur'an which contributes to the aesthetics of the sound. Acoustic phonetic analysis was performed on sound waves from Surah al-Fatihah using PRAAT software by comparing its intensity with Arabic News. As a result, we found the existence of a rhyme system of alliteration and assonance in the verses of this surah, that is, in the first, third, fifth and seventh verses which are highlighted by the contours of intensity and time duration of letters, syllables and words that show the greatness of God, giving birth to a feeling of closeness to God in addition to giving birth to the effect of persuasion which is the basis of spiritual therapy. In addition, the end rhyme system found in the Fatihah Chapter is significant (p<0.05) compared to the Arabic News. In conclusion, the Fatihah Chapter also has a rhyme system in its verses, not only at the end of the verse, suggesting that the brain that listens to the sound of the Qur'an is able to synchronize and form rhythmic and harmonious waves that influence mental and physical well-being.
Réformer la recherche en santé mondiale au Sahel
Authors: Ridde Valéry , Béland Daniel
Published: August 2024

La pandémie de Covid-19 a été un choc planétaire. Dans le domaine de la santé mondiale, notamment au Sahel en Afrique, les équipes de recherche se sont rapidement mobilisées pour participer à l’effort collectif d’une meilleure compréhension de la situation afin de renforcer les réponses à la pandémie. Dans un contexte de dépendance envers l’aide internationale, la recherche en santé mondiale dans cette région se réalise à travers des partenariats internationaux souvent empreints d’enjeux de pouvoirs et de stratégies néfastes à une conduite responsable. À partir d’exemples empiriques au Sahel, cet article montre la permanence de ces pratiques que la pandémie n’a pas changées. Si la pandémie a été une opportunité pour certaines équipes (plus agiles et résilientes) de créer de nouvelles collaborations scientifiques, l’absence de changement de paradigme, malgré la puissance du choc, montre qu’il reste encore beaucoup à faire pour la décolonisation de la santé mondiale.
Bispectral analysis and simulation modeling of quadratic nonlinear system with specific turbulent-fluctuation-excitation-response types
Authors: Shen Yong , Shen Yu-Hang , Dong Jia-Qi , Li Jia , Shi Zhong-Bing , Zong Wen-Gang , Pan Li , Li Ji-Quan ,   Southwestern Institute of Physics, Chengdu 610041, China,   School of Information and Communication Engineering, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, China,   School of Mathematics and Science, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, China,   Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
Published: August 2024

There exists a kind of quadratic nonlinear system with specific type of turbulent fluctuation excitation in nature, which belongs to a special non-Gaussian input signal system. Its characteristic is that the input signal spectrum is generated by turbulent fluctuations, and the power spectrum distribution of this turbulence fluctuation signal is close to Gaussian distribution. Starting with the work of Choi et al. (1985 J. Sound Vib. 99 309) and Kim et al. [1987 IEEE J. Ocean. Eng. OE-12 568), we extend the simulation of a specific turbulent fluctuation excited response-type quadratic nonlinear system represented by the wave excited mooring ship response, and fully develop the internal development of turbulence based on bispectral analysis technology. We also extend the simulation system and conduct systematic modeling analysis. The complete iterative method [2020 Phys. Scr. 95 055202] is used to solve the model, and calculate the linear transfer function and quadratic nonlinear transfer function. The comparison of simulation and modeling results with the real systems and their models confirms the correctness of the results from system simulation, system modeling, and model solving. The results obtained are all in line with expectations. The coherence analysis shows that the quadratic coherence of the random wave-ship swaying system is much greater than the linear coherence, but the linear coherence of the fully developed turbulence is greater for the near Gaussian input type. The reverse computation verification or comparison with real systems indicates that the turbulence simulation and system modeling method in this work have good accuracy and high efficiency in solving algorithms, and the research results can be effectively applied to the model description and system analysis of the quadratic nonlinear systems related to specific turbulent fluctuation excitation response.
Müller glia cell cycle re-activation by simultaneous cyclin D1 overexpression and p27kip1 knockdown promotes retinal regeneration in mice
Authors: Wu Zhifei , Liao Baoshan , Ying Julia , Keung Jan , Zheng Zongli , Ahola Virpi , Xiong Wenjun
Published: August 2024

Harnessing the regenerative potential of endogenous stem cells to restore lost neurons is a promising strategy for treating neurodegenerative disorders. Müller glia (MG), the primary glial cell type in the retina, exhibit remarkable regenerative abilities in lower vertebrate species, such as zebrafish and amphibians, where injury induces MG to proliferate and differentiate into various retinal neuron types. The regenerative potential of mammalian MG is constrained by their inherent inability to re-enter the cell cycle, likely due to high levels of the cell cycle inhibitor p27
Kip1
and low levels of cyclin D1 observed in adult mouse MG. In this study, we found that adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated cyclin D1 overexpression and p27
Kip1
knockdown exerts a strong synergistic effect on MG proliferation. MG proliferation induced by this treatment was potent but self-limiting, as MG did not undergo uncontrolled proliferation or lead to retinal neoplasia. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) revealed that cell cycle reactivation leads to immunosuppression and dedifferentiation of MG. Notably, scRNA-seq analysis identified a new cluster of rod-like MG cells expressing both rod and MG genes, which was further validated by RNA in situ hybridization. Cell cycle reactivation also led to de novo genesis of bipolar- and amacrine-like cells from MG. Overall, our findings suggest that AAV- mediated cyclin D1 overexpression and p27
Kip1
knockdown stimulate MG proliferation and promote MG reprogramming. This approach may be a promising strategy, especially when combined with other regeneration-promoting factors, to enhance MG-mediated retinal repair.
Cell-autonomous timing drives the vertebrate segmentation clock’s wave pattern
Authors: Rohde Laurel A , Bercowsky-Rama Arianne , Valentin Guillaume , Naganathan Sundar Ram , Desai Ravi A , Strnad Petr , Soroldoni Daniele , Oates Andrew C
Published: August 2024

Rhythmic and sequential segmentation of the growing vertebrate body relies on the segmentation clock, a multi-cellular oscillating genetic network. The clock is visible as tissue-level kinematic waves of gene expression that travel through the pre-somitic mesoderm (PSM) and arrest at the position of each forming segment. Here we test how this hallmark wave pattern is driven by culturing single maturing PSM cells. We compare their cell-autonomous oscillatory and arrest dynamics to those we observe in the embryo at cellular resolution, finding similarity in the relative slowing of oscillations and arrest in concert with differentiation. This shows that cell-extrinsic signals are not required by the cells to instruct the developmental program underlying the wave pattern. We show that a cell-autonomous timing activity initiates during cell exit from the tailbud, then runs down in the anterior-ward cell flow in the PSM, thereby using elapsed time to provide positional information to the clock. Exogenous FGF lengthens the duration of the cell-intrinsic timer, indicating extrinsic factors in the embryo may regulate the segmentation clock via the timer. In sum, our work suggests that a noisy cell-autonomous, intrinsic timer drives the slowing and arrest of oscillations underlying the wave pattern, while extrinsic factors in the embryo tune this timer’s duration and precision. This is a new insight into the balance of cell-intrinsic and -extrinsic mechanisms driving tissue patterning in development.
Does bumblebee preference of continuous over interrupted strings in string-pulling tasks indicate means-end comprehension?
Authors: Wen Chao , Lu Yuyi , Solvi Cwyn , Dong Shunping , Wang Cai , Wen Xiujun , Xiao Haijun , Dong Shikui , Wen Junbao , Peng Fei , Chittka Lars
Published: August 2024

Bumblebees (
Bombus terrestris
) have been shown to engage in string-pulling behavior to access rewards. The objective of this study was to elucidate whether bumblebees display means-end comprehension in a string-pulling task. We presented bumblebees with two options: one where a string is connected to an artificial flower containing a reward and the other presenting an interrupted string. Bumblebees displayed a consistent preference for pulling connected strings over interrupted ones after training with a stepwise pulling technique. When exposed to novel string colors, bees continued to exhibit a bias towards pulling the connected string. This suggests that bumblebees engage in featural generalization of the visual display of the string connected to the flower in this task. If the view of the string connected to the flower was restricted during the training phase, the proportion of bumblebees choosing the connected strings significantly decreased. Similarly, when the bumblebees were confronted with coiled connected strings during the testing phase, they failed to identify and reject the interrupted strings. This finding underscores the significance of visual consistency in enabling the bumblebees to perform the task successfully. Our results suggest that bumblebees’ ability to distinguish between continuous strings and interrupted strings relies on a combination of image matching and associative learning, rather than means-end understanding. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of the cognitive processes employed by bumblebees when tackling complex spatial tasks.
Investigating the influence of eco-friendly approaches on saline soil traits and growth of common bean plants (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)
Authors: Khalifa Tamer , Abdel-Kader Nasser Ibrahim , Elbagory Mohssen , Ahmed Mohamed ElSayed , Saber Esraa Ahmed , Omara Alaa El-Dein , Mahdy Rehab Mohamed
Published: August 2024

Soil salinization significantly impacts agricultural lands and crop productivity in the study area. Moreover, freshwater scarcity poses a significant obstacle to soil reclamation and agricultural production. Therefore, eco-friendly strategies must be adopted for agro-ecosystem sustainability under these conditions. A study conducted in 2022 and 2023 examined the interaction effects of various soil mulching materials (unmulched, white plastic, rice straw, and sawdust) and chitosan foliar spray application (control, 250 mg L−1 of normal chitosan, 125 mg L−1 of nano chitosan, and 62.5 mg L−1 of nano chitosan) on the biochemical soil characteristics and productivity of common beans in clay-saline soil. Higher organic matter, available nutrient content, and total bacteria count in soils were found under organic mulching treatments (rice straw and sawdust). In contrast, the white plastic mulching treatment resulted in the lowest values of soil electrical conductivity (EC) and the highest soil water content. Conversely, chitosan foliar spray treatments had the least impact on the chemical properties of the soil. Plants sprayed with 62.5 mg L−1 of nano chitosan exhibited higher chlorophyll content, plant height, fresh weight of shoots and roots, seed yield, and nutrient content compared to other chitosan foliar spray applications. All treatments studied led to a significant reduction in fungal communities and Na% in plants. The combined effect of organic mulch materials and foliar spray application of 62.5 mg L−1 nano chitosan appeared to enhance biochemical saline soil properties and common bean productivity.
The median effective concentration of ropivacaine for ultrasound-guided anterior iliopsoas muscle space block in the elderly undergoing hip surgery: a dose-finding study
Authors: Ma Peng , Zeng Rui , Peng Jiang , Zhu Juan , Jing Zhaojun , Han Yu
Published: August 2024

Background

In order to improve perioperative pain and reduce the adverse outcome of severe pain in elderly hip fractures, anterior iliopsoas muscle space block (AIMSB) can be used clinically to reduce pain. The aim of the study is to investigate the 50% effective concentration (EC50) of ropivacaine for ultrasound-guided anterior iliopsoas space block in elderly with hip fracture.

Methods

A total of 27 patients were enrolled with aged ≥65 years, American society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classification II–III and undergoing Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA). We measured the EC50 using Dixon’s up-and-down method. Ultrasound-guided AIMSB was performed preoperatively with an initial concentration of 0.2% in the first patient. After a successful or unsuccessful postoperative analgesia, the concentration of local anesthetic was decreased or increased 0.05%, respectively in the next patient. The successful block effect was defined as no sensation to pinprick in the area with femoral nerve, obturator nerve, and lateral femoral cutaneous nerve in 30 min. Meanwhile, the EC50 of ropivacaine was determined by using linear model, linear-logarithmic model, probit regression model, and centered isotonic regression.

Results

A total of 12 patients (48%) had a successful block. All patients with a successful block had a postoperative visual analog scale score of <4 in the 12 h. The estimated EC50 values in linear model, linear-logarithmic model, probit regression model, and centered isotonic regression (a nonparametric method) were 0.268%, 0.259%, 0.277%, and 0.289%. The residual standard error of linear model was the smallest (0.1245).

Conclusion

The EC50 of ropivacaine in anterior iliopsoas space block under ultrasound guidance is 0.259–0.289%.
Analysis of air temperature variation with atmospheric pollutants and meteorological parameters using SPSS
Authors: Gopika Jayachandran  , Jerin Thomas  , R Nihala  , Archana C P
Published: August 2024

Temperature variation in the atmosphere is closely related to climatic change, environmental pollution and human health. It has become the prime concern of most countries due to the anthropogenic activities and adverse meteorological situations. This temperature variation depends on various factors like the meteorological parameters as well as the air pollutants. The analysis of temperature variation with these factors are done using Geographically Weighted Regression Modelling (GWR) in Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). This idea is used to study the chronographic change of relationship between a dependent attribute and one or more independent attribute from the output obtained from GWR equation from SPSS Software. In this study the variation of air temperature is analyzed with pollutants and meteorological parameters. The study areas chosen are Vytila, MG Road, Eloor, Methanam, Kalamasserry. The concentration of NO2, SO2, Respirable suspended particulate matter (RSPM) and the meteorological parameters like Relative Humidity (RH), precipitation and atmospheric temperature over 2010-2020 were collected. A numerical model is developed using the above data to study the variation of temperature in the selected areas.
Analysis of factors affecting quality performance of construction equipment.
Authors: Alden Christopher Rodrigues  , Amaan M. Kamarudeen  , Sangeetha A.  , Anue Mary Mathew
Published: August 2024

Quality performance is a numerical measurement of the performance of an organization or process assessed through the measurement of physical products and statistical sampling of the output of processes. Construction equipment’s are heavy-duty vehicles specifically created for carrying out construction activities, most usually including earthwork operations. Excavators, Backhoe loaders are the most common equipment’s used for excavation in the construction industry. Defects or lapses in the quality performance of such equipment can lead to increased costs and delays in project completion. This project involves the identification of the factors that affect the quality performance of construction equipment used for excavation in construction sites through a literature review. After the identification of these factors, a questionnaire is prepared from the factors identified and site visits are conducted to various construction sites across Ernakulam district and interviews were conducted with construction practitioners including project managers, site engineers, equipment contractors and the response data is collected. After the collection of data analysis is done using Statistical Package for Social Science software (SPSS) and the major factors that affect the quality performance were ranked. The factors with RII value of 0.841 affects majorly the performance of excavation equipment and the factor with RII value of 0.588 affects the performance of excavation equipment’s the least.
Experimental investigation on fresh and hardened properties of high strength fibre reinforced concrete using GGBFS and micro silica
Authors: Sanulal K H  , Tellma John
Published: August 2024

The use of High Strength Concrete (HSC) has increased now a days. The concrete is one of the most useful construction materials, but the major defects of concretes are brittle in nature, low workability and low tensile strength. Experimental study is carried out to assess fresh and hardened properties of high strength fibre reinforced concrete (HSFRC) of grade M70. In addition to normal materials, silica fume and GGBS are added to achieve higher strength and poly propylene fibres are added to improve its ductility. The content of silica fume and GGBS is 5% and 25% respectively by weight of cement. Water to cementitious material ratio is 0.31. Mixes with different percentages of poly propylene fibres such as 0.5%, 0.1%, and 1.5% by the weight of cementitious content are denoted as HSFRC 1, HSFRC 2, and HSFRC 3, respectively. To improve the workability characteristics of the low water-binder ratio HSC mix, the Poly Carboxylate Ethylene-based chemical admixtures are used. The fresh properties were investigated in terms of slump flow and mechanical performances of the HSFRC over HSC are evaluated in terms of compressive, flexural, split tensile strength.
Effectiveness of using sugarcane molasses and coal bottom ash on soil
Authors: Anjana V Raj  , Sreeja V
Published: August 2024

The presence of fertilizers in groundwater and soils can pose a significant threat to human health and ecological systems. The soil’s geotechnical characters are greatly influenced by interaction with the wastes discharged from industries, is a cause for serious concern to the geotechnical engineers. The study is conducted to determine the effect of sugarcane molasses in removing urea content from soil sample. Sugarcane molasses (SM) is a viscous, dark and sugar-rich by-product of sugar extraction from the sugarcane. The soil which is used has been procured from Mulanthuruthy block panchayat, Ernakulam, Kerala. The percentages of molasses used are 20%, 40%, 60%, 80% and 100% in terms of dry weight of the soil. The analysis of properties of urea contaminated soil is studied. The various soil properties are determined by conducting tests like Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) tests, Standard Proctor tests. Coal Bottom Ash (CBA) which is collected from the Thermal power plants in varying percentages (10%, 20%, 30% and 40%) is added to soil with 100% sugarcane molasses. Standard Proctor Test and Unconfined compressive strength test were conducted. UCS value increased with the addition of CBA. The maximum increment in UCS is obtained at 30% addition of CBA.
Use of recycled concrete aggregates in stabilization of black cotton soil
Authors: Harinarayan Dewanda  , Pratik Jaiswal  , Sitarami Reddy
Published: August 2024

The long-term performance of a pavement structure depends on its structural integrity and the stability of its underlying soils. The properties of black cotton (BC) soils are known to adversely affect the performance of pavement. BC soil is creating a lot of problems in constructing the pavements on it because of its low California bearing ratio (CBR) and high swelling potential behavior. Black cotton soil possesses poor strength, high swelling and shrinkage behavior on exposure to moisture. Pavements on BC soil require stabilization. Soil stabilization is a process utilized for improving the properties of undesirable weak soil.  Stabilization of subgrade soil by chemical, thermal or mechanical techniques is very common practice and too expensive. Therefore, in this study, an attempt has been made to stabilize the BC soil subgrade by recycled concrete aggregate (RCA). The RCA are the waste aggregates obtained from demolition of concrete structure buildings, road, and bridges. The main aim of this study is to know the suitability of RCA waste as a stabilizer for BC soil in the construction of flexible pavements. In this investigation, properties of RCA and BC soil are evaluated, RCA is mixed in different proportions with the BC soil, and their influence on the CBR value and compaction curve are studied. Seven mixes (100% BC soil, 90% BC soil + 10% RCA, 80% BC soil + 20% RCA, 70% BC soil + 30% RCA, 60% BC soil + 40% RCA, 50% BC soil + 50% RCA, 40% BC soil + 60% RCA) are tested for CBR value in order to find the proportion which gives maximum CBR value. Based on the results, it is observed that for the BC soil used in this study, mix containing 60% BC soil and 40% RCA is the suitable mix proportion for the stabilization. For this proportion of mix, the CBR value increased from 3.53% to 11.2%. This accounts to 3.2 times increase in the CBR value, whereas the optimum moisture content (OMC) decreased from 27% to 22% and maximum dry density (MDD) increased from 1.22 gm/cm3 to 1.45 gm/cm3. Hence 60% BC soil and 40% RCA   can be used to stabilize the given soil.
Impact of COVID-19 on River and Fisheries: A Comprehensive Guide
Authors: Verma Durgesh Kumar , Sharma Shravan Kumar , Barad Ridhdhisa R. , Jayaswal Rajesh , Inwati Pragati , Chandra Ishwar , Kumar Vivek , Kurmi Akanksha , Khalasi Binal Rajeshbhai
Published: August 2024

Impact of COVID-19 on Rivers and Fisheries: A Comprehensive Guide is a review article that discusses the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the aquaculture sector (including financial assistance, input sub/sides, social protection, support for access to new markets, and other measures) aquatic environments, including rivers and fisheries. The authors highlight a significant reduction in tourism, which has led to a decline in the Indian economy. They also discussed the impact of the pandemic on the aquaculture industry, which has been severely affected by the reduction in demand. This review article further discusses the changes in water quality parameters, including increased plastic waste, improved water quality index due to reduced human activities and reduced availability of nutrients due to decreased agricultural activities. The authors also discussed the impact of the pandemic on fish biodiversity, including population restoration due to reduced industrial pollution and changes in the reproductive state of fish. The article concludes by discussing the impact of the pandemic on the exploitation of fish and the aquaculture and fishing industries, including increased fishing effort and harvest with prolonged lockdowns and decreased fish production.
Investigating Caregiving Dynamics and Subjective Cognitive Decline: An Analysis Using BRFSS Database Insights
Authors: Okobi Okelue Edwards , Bolaji Olayinka Olusola , Okunromade Omolola , Anats Chioma J.
Published: August 2024

Background: Subjective cognitive decline (SCD), characterized by self-reported memory or cognitive difficulties, is an increasing concern among older adults. This study utilizes data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) to examine SCD prevalence, professional consultation patterns, and caregiving dynamics among U.S. adults aged 45 years and older.
Objectives: To explore trends in the prevalence of SCD, the extent of professional consultation among those experiencing SCD, and recent caregiving activities. The study aims to identify demographic variations and assess changes over time.
Methods: This cross-sectional study analyzes BRFSS data from 2020 and 2022, which includes self-reported data on cognitive symptoms, professional consultation, and caregiving activities. Descriptive statistics and age-adjusted prevalence estimates were computed for SCD, professional consultation, and caregiving activities. Comparative analyses were performed to identify trends between 2020 and 2022, and to assess variations across demographic groups.
Results: Between 2020 and 2022, the age-adjusted prevalence of SCD among adults aged 45 and older rose from 9.7% to 11.7%, affecting both genders. Prevalence increased from 9.4% to 11.8% for males and from 10.0% to 11.7% for females. In 2022, Black non-Hispanic adults had a prevalence of 12.2%, Hispanic adults 12.3%, Asian non-Hispanic adults 9.4%, Hawaiian or Pacific Islander non-Hispanic adults 9.9%, American Indian or Alaska Native non-Hispanic adults 21.1%, and Multiracial non-Hispanic adults 19.2%. Professional consultation rates declined from 47.7% to 44.3%. Caregiving for individuals with dementia or cognitive impairment was reported by 22.4% in 2020, decreasing slightly to 21.3% in 2022. General caregiving showed a slight increase from 18.9% to 19.5%. Variations in SCD prevalence and caregiving activities were observed across gender, race, and ethnicity.
Conclusion: The study highlights a rising trend in SCD and variations in professional consultation and caregiving dynamics. These findings emphasize the need for targeted public health strategies to address cognitive decline and support caregivers. Enhancing access to healthcare and caregiver resources is crucial for improving outcomes for affected individuals and their caregivers.
Phytochemical and Antioxidant Profiling of Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) Landraces from Hilly Regions of India
Authors: Kumar Dharminder , Singh Akanksha , Kumar Ankit , Saini Aadisha , Kumar Vikas , Kumar Sandeep , Kumar Raj , Parkash Chander , Vikram Amit , Singh Jagmeet
Published: August 2024

The present study was carried out to assess the phytochemical and antioxidant potential of 24 chilli landraces grown in hilly regions of India viz. Himachal Pradesh & Assam and genotypes were evaluated for different phytochemical parameters and antioxidant assays. Highest total sugar (3.43 %), reducing sugar (2.22 %), polyphenolic content (153.85 mg /100g GAE), total carotenoids (101.66 mg/100g), ascorbic acid (12.85 mg/100g) and reducing power assay (70.76 mM/g TE) were found in the genotype ‘Chilli SC-1’, while ‘Chilli CHI-15’ was found superior for total flavonoid content (547.01 mg/100g QE). The genotype, ‘Chilli SC-1’followed ‘Chilli L-2’ were found best owing to their Trolox equivalent antioxidant activity. The above results were also confirmed with spectral studies using FT-IR spectroscopy and genotype ‘Chili SC-1’ was found best in all the concerned parameters as the highest peaks of the respective sample were observed concerning all other samples. Further, principal component analysis indicated that the genotype ‘Chilli SC-1’, ‘Chilli LC-2’, ‘Chilli AC-9’ and ‘Chilli AC-10’ are the major contributors to divergence within different quality traits under study.
Extent of Adoption of Selected Climate-smart Agricultural Practices among Smallholder Farmers in Laikipia County, Kenya
Authors: Kenduiwa Angela A. , Recha Charles W. , Mwonya Rose A. , Olubandwa Adijah
Published: August 2024

Aim: Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) is an integrative approach to address the challenges of food security and climate change.  This study sought to assess the extent of adoption of climate smart agricultural practices in Laikipia County, Kenya.
Study Design: This study used correlation research design.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in Laikipia county. Specifically in the sub-counties Laikipia West, Laikipia East and Laikipia North. The study was carried out in July – August 2022.
Methodology: A multi-stage sampling technique was used to obtain a representative sample of 384 smallholder farmers households across the three sub-counties. Systematic random sampling was used to select every tenth household from the sample size. A questionnaire was used to collect data from the sampled households (all of whom were smallholder farmers). Descriptive statistical analysis was used to determine the extent of adoption of selected Climate Smart Agricultural Practices among smallholder farmers in Laikipia County, Kenya. The study used a chi-square (X²) test of independence to establish a relationship in the adoption of CSA practices across the three study sites
Results: This study found that crop diversification (87%), mixed farming (crop farming and livestock keeping) (83%), use of pesticides and fungicides (80%) and crop rotation (74%) were the most adopted climate smart agricultural practices (CSAPs). On extent of adoption, full adoption was highest on pest and disease control (54%) and diversification of farming practices (52%); partial adoption was highest in conservation agriculture (54%); and non-adoption was highest on agroforestry (42%).
Conclusion: It is recommended that stakeholders should improve the adoption of water harvesting/use, conservation agriculture and agroforestry – critical climate smart agricultural practices in semi-arid environments.
Influence of Different Levels of Hydrogel on Root Nodulation in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)
Authors: Singh Shalini , Sharma Richa
Published: August 2024

This study investigated the impact of varying levels of hydrogel on the root nodules of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) during Rabi seasons of 2019-20 and 2021-22 at the Department of Biological Sciences, Sam Higginbottom Institute of Agriculture, Technology, and Sciences, (U.P). The experimental design was a randomized block design with four levels of hydrogel (25%, 50%, 75% and 100%) and two levels of irrigation (one irrigation and two irrigation) and all treatments replicated thrice. Observations on the number of nodules per plant, active nodules, and inactive nodules were recorded at 30, 60, and 90 days after sowing (DAS) and at maturity and analysed using Fisher's ANOVA. The results indicated that hydrogel application significantly affected nodule formation at all growth stages across both years. The highest number of nodules, active nodules, and inactive nodules were recorded in treatment T10 (2 irrigations + 100% hydrogel), followed by T9 (2 irrigations + 75% hydrogel), in both years. The enhanced nodule formation with hydrogel application was attributed to improved water availability to the roots during periods of water scarcity, highlighting hydrogel's role in optimizing nitrogen availability and promoting chickpea growth, which is crucial for enhancing soil fertility.
Impact of Iba and Naa Concentrations on Growth Characteristics of MR2 Mulberry (Morus sinensis) Using Mini-Clonal Technology at Nursery Level
Authors: B Karthick Mani Bharathi , S. Susikaran , KT Parthiban , V Vasanth , Bhat Mohammad Rafiq , K Ramya Harika , S Navaneetha Krishnan , M Sabarish , M Mithilasri. , R Kalpana , M Ashwin Niranjan
Published: August 2024

Using mini-clonal technology, an experiment was carried out to examine the effects of rooting hormone on the growth and rooting characteristics of the mulberry (Morus sinensis L.) variety 'MR2'. Cuttings from the apical shoots of the mulberry variety MR2, which is the popular variety among farmers and have good resistance towards mildew attack was taken for the study. The experiment was conducted at the Department of Sericulture, Forest College and Research Institute, Mettupalayam. Four replications of the Completely Randomized Design (CRD) experiment were used to arrange the data. Two hormones, such as Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) and Napthalene acetic acid (NAA), were used in the experiment. The hormones were replicated four times in each of the following concentration ranges: 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, and 5000 ppm. Different hormone concentrations were applied to apical shoot cuttings before they were planted in the appropriate rooting medium in a greenhouse. At the 90th day, measurements were taken of the following parameters like shoot length (cm), number of roots per plant (no’s), root length (cm) and number of leaves per plant (no’s). IBA and NAA at 5000 ppm out performed all other treatments in terms of mulberry mini cutting growth and root characteristics.
Tectonic paleostress fields in the southwestern part of Jordan: New insights from the fault slip data in the southeastern flank of the Dead Sea Fault Zone
Authors: Radaideh Omar M. A. , Melichar Rostislav
Published: August 2015

A new approach for paleostress analysis, using the nine‐dimensional space fault slip inversion method, was performed in the southeastern flank of the Jordan‐Dead Sea Fault. Five major tectonic episodes with different kinematics were successfully detected from the inversion of a new fault slip data, which thereby caused reactivation of inherited crustal structures and established new ones. These episodes prevailed since Late Cretaceous times, and their chronological constraints were established essentially from the stratigraphic ages of the affected rocks and the crosscutting relationships of successive striae locally observed on the fault planes. During the Late Cretaceous to late Eocene, the area was under a compressional/strike‐slip stress regime with a ~E‐W trending σ1. At Oligocene, a strike‐slip stress regime with NW‐SE striking σ1 occurred. Both compression regimes correspond to the so‐called Syrian Arc Deformation that gave rise to distinctive folds in Jordan and its surrounding areas. An extension with ~N‐S to NE‐SW trending σ3 followed the late Oligocene compression event and took place during Miocene time, most probably linked to the opening of the Red Sea‐Suez Rift. Late Cenozoic tectonics show the occurrence of two successive compressions, NW‐SE then both NE‐SW and ~N‐S, which generally reflect a continental collisional setting between the Arabian and Eurasian plates.
Italo‐Norman Empire
Authors: Oldfield Paul
Published: August 2015

The development of Norman power in Italy in the 11th and 12th centuries was uneven and for large periods there was no one dominant military or political authority in the region. However, from 1130, Roger II, of Norman descent, created a monarchy which would in time become powerful and centralized (by medieval standards). However, the interrelationships between the regions forming this kingdom, the subsequent expansion of Norman power across the Central Mediterranean and the ideological underpinnings of the monarchy demonstrated some potentially ‘imperial’ features. Collectively they might indicate that conventional views of Norman power in the region require some revision.
Aztec Empire
Authors: Berdan Frances F.
Published: August 2015

The Aztec Empire was the last of the great political entities of pre‐Spanish Mesoamerica, falling to combined Spanish and native military forces in 1521
ce.
The empire was headed by three powerful city‐states in the Basin of Mexico: Tenochtitlan (the Mexica capital), Texcoco (the Acolhua capital) and Tlacopan (the Tepaneca capital). The rulers of these city‐states formed a powerful and aggressive Triple Alliance in 1428; for the following 93 years this military coalition dominated much of central Mexico, from Pacific Coast to Gulf Coast, and as far south as the present‐day Guatemala border. The Triple Alliance powers utilized several military and diplomatic strategies to create this extensive empire and to maintain control over their far‐flung domains.
Achaemenid Empire
Authors: Llewellyn‐Jones Lloyd
Published: August 2015

The first Persian Empire, created and maintained by the Great Kings of the Achaemenid dynasty, was a global empire of vast proportions. Before the conquests of Alexander of Macedon, the Achaemenid empire was the largest empire the world had ever seen, stretching from Libya to Pakistan. The period 559‐465bcesaw the rapid expansion of the empire under a series of conquering kings, and thereafter the empire matured and continued to flourish until its conquest by Macedon. The Achaemenids divided their vast empire into numerous satrapies to ensure efficient administration and the ability to levy taxes and tribute. Communication and trade was facilitated through excellent road systems. While the Persians adopted a tolerant position towards their conquered peoples, they could also be ruthless overlords, quelling opposition with startling swiftness and brutality.
Environment and empire
Authors: MacKenzie John M.
Published: August 2015

Many empires have had a major impact on the environment, either through warfare, the introduction of new crops and animals, the depletion or extermination of species, or the spreading of pathogens and alien plants and crops. Empires have also had the capacity to marshal financial, labor, and food resources in the creation of new infrastructures (roads, ports, fortifications, urban and administrative centers) and hydrological schemes (canals, irrigation systems, dams), affecting ecologies which have been further altered primarily through forest and mineral resource extraction. The environmental impact became more marked in modern empires in consequence of developing technologies and the creation ofmonocultures(areas primarily devoted to the production of one crop) across the globe, where products were often transferred to other suitable ecologies, in the process transforming both environments and labor practices. European empires also facilitated (especially white) migration across the globe, transforming built environments and flora and fauna for economic and aesthetic reasons; and plundering not only the natural riches of colonial environments, but also the monuments, sites, and artefacts of the past. From the later 19th century, European empires began to consider concepts of preservation and conservation in respect of both built and natural environments.
Miscegenation
Authors: Sèbe Berny
Published: August 2015

Empires have generally encouraged the mobility of unattached people of various origins, offering throughout history many opportunities for racial mixing. The extension of trade facilitated by imperial networks, the movement of soldiers or officials brought about by military operations, or the development of homogeneous administrative infrastructures, have generated a greater level of interaction between various populations. In many instances, colonization was based on male emigration, bringing about almost mechanically a deficit of female settlers. This situation could only be compensated by the involvement of local women, leading inevitably to a process of miscegenation – a concept coined in late‐19th‐century USA to describe a practice which had taken place since Antiquity. In an imperial context, miscegenation has always meant male colonizers (settlers or soldiers in most cases) combining their genes with local women, which had far‐reaching consequences when it came to distinguishing in their offspring between citizens and subjects. Referring to intimate practices belonging to the domestic sphere, the concept of miscegenation has had many socio‐political implications in imperial contexts.