bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Role of the 1957 Decrees of the Baltic Soviet Republics in Dismantling the Gulag and Special Settlement System
Authors: Gams Elmar
Published: November 2024

The article looks at the process of dismantling the Gulag and special settlement system in the USSR from 1953 to 1957. Some of the specific outputs of this process were the decrees adopted by the Presidiums of the Supreme Soviets of the Lithuanian, Latvian and Estonian SSRs in 1957. In all three cases, there were two simultaneously approved legal acts with similar contents: one on the establishment of a Presidium commission to review the cases of special settlers, and one on the ban on the return of convicts. The research paper describes the legal and political framework of the process that led to the adoption of the decrees mentioned, and sheds some light on their application. The relationship between the all-Union and the Soviet republic levels is observed. The reaction to the events of 1956 led to a tightening of the Soviet regime. In the light of the events abroad and in the USSR in 1956, the 1957 decrees of the Baltic Soviet republics were an example of the USSR’s ad hoc approach to governance more generally, and of the release process specifically. The content of these legal acts was evidence of the primacy of political expediency over the law.
The Diagnostic Value of 3.0 T Magnetic Resonance Imaging Combined with Carbohydrate Antigen 125 and Human Epididymis Protein 4 in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Cao Tie , Wang Dongqing , Chen Xiaoyu , Zhang Lirong , Chen Wanhong
Published: November 2024

Background: Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is among the top 5 causes of cancer-associated death in women. We explored the diagnostic value of 3.0 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) combined with carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125) and human epididymis protein 4 (HE4) on EOC. Methods: Among 380 ovarian space-occupying patients in this retrospective analysis, 344 were included, 59 were excluded, 25 had incomplete clinical data, and 260 were finally included as the subjects. Patients were classified into the EOC (110 patients with EOC) and N-EOC (150 patients without EOC) groups. The levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), anti-mullerian hormone (AMH), CA125, and HE4 were determined. The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value and the clinical diagnostic value of MRI, CA125, HE4, and their combination were analyzed. Results: There were significant differences in tumor family history, gravidity, parity, IL-6, CRP, FSH, LH, AMH, and ADC value between EOC and N-EOC patients (all p < 0.05). EOC patients exhibited highly-expressed CA125 and HE4 (p < 0.01). CA125/HE4 expression was correlated with the clinicopathological features of EOC, while the ADC value was correlated with the EOC tumor diameter (all p < 0.05). MRI [area under the curve (AUC) = 0.77], CA125 (AUC = 0.85) and HE4 (AUC = 0.90) had certain diagnostic value for EOC (all p < 0.05). Conclusions: The prevalence of EOC in ovarian space-occupying patients with highly-expressed CA125 and HE4 is higher. MRI combined with CA125 and HE4 has high clinical diagnostic value for EOC.
Impact of Unicornuate Uterus on Third-Trimester Obstetric Outcomes in Nulliparous Women
Authors: Wang Lin , Yu Ying , Zhang Yong-qing , Xu Jian , Han Xiu-jun
Published: November 2024

Background: Pregnancies in women with a unicornuate uterus are associated with an increased risk for specific adverse pregnancy and obstetric outcomes. We sought to investigate the obstetric outcomes of singleton pregnancies in nulliparous women with a unicornuate uterus in the third-trimester and to determine safe and appropriate modes of delivery. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 94 nulliparous women with singleton pregnancies and a unicornuate uterus, along with 278 matched controls with a normally shaped uterus, from March 2009 to March 2019. Results: A total of 124 patients were diagnosed with a unicornuate uterus in the obstetrics department after the 28th week of pregnancy, including 94 nulliparous women. Compared to pregnancies with normal uterine morphology, a unicornuate uterus is associated with an increased risk of preterm delivery (PTD), preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (PPROM), malpresentation, caesarean section (CS), intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission. Additionally, pregnancies with unicornuate uterus show significantly lower gestational age at delivery, as well as lower rates of term delivery and vaginal delivery. No increased risk was observed for in-labor CS rates or labor duration. In total, 17 pregnant women in the unicornuate uterus group had vaginal deliveries, including 2 who had previously undergone rudimentary horn resection. Conclusions: The presence of a unicornuate uterus is associated with an increased risk of specific adverse obstetric outcomes compared to pregnancies in women with a normal uterus. However, vaginal delivery may be considered in in women with a unicornuate uterus thorough evaluation.
Assessment of Awareness and Acceptance of the Human Papillomavirus Vaccine among Women in Saudi Arabia: A Community-Based Survey
Authors: Alrashidi Mishari M. , Ali Ahmed K. , Miskeen Elhadi , Algarni Abdulaziz D , Almatrafi Rawabi S , Albudyri Naif S , Alrashidi Tarig A
Published: November 2024

Background: Globally, cervical cancer represents a major public health concern. The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine serves as a primary preventive strategy against cervical cancer. This study aimed to assess the HPV vaccine awareness and acceptability (HPVVAA) among women in Saudi Arabia. Methods: This study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative data to assess HPVVAA among women in Saudi Arabia. A national survey was conducted with a diverse sample of 640 Saudi women, aged 18 to 65, representing both urban and rural areas. Data collection involved structured questionnaires, including both closed-ended and open-ended questions, distributed online and via paper-based self-administration. Descriptive statistics summarized demographic characteristics, while inferential statistics and logistic regression were used to identify associations between variables. Thematic content analysis of the open-ended responses was conducted to explore recurring themes related to awareness, acceptability, and potential barriers. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Ethics approval and written informed consent were obtained prior to participants’ involvement in the study. Results: A total of 640 women participated in the study. The majority of participants were over 50 years old (31.2%), married (45.3%), and held a university or higher educational level (43.8%). Approximately 39.1% of participants had received the HPV vaccine, while 56.3% expressed willingness to accept it. Awareness of HPV and its link to cervical cancer was reported at 78.8% and 62.5%, respectively. The primary source of information (34.4%) was healthcare professionals. Positive attitudes toward vaccinations and favorable perceptions of the HPV vaccine’s safety and efficacy were prevalent among the respondents. Age (p < 0.01; odds ratio [OR]: 1.134; 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.045–1.231) and marital status (p = 0.027; OR: 1.078; 95% CI: 1.007–1.153) were significant predictors of vaccine acceptance. Age was identified as a significant factor that influences awareness (p < 0.001; OR: 1.25; 95% CI: 1.10–1.42). Participants who were one year older were 1.25 times more likely to be aware of the HPV vaccine, with a 95% CI of 1.10 to 1.42 (p < 0.001). Participants with better healthcare access were more likely to be aware of the HPV vaccine (p < 0.001; OR: 1.30; 95% CI: 1.15–1.47). Conclusions: The study found a significant HPVVAA among women in Saudi Arabia. However, there is room for improvement in vaccine uptake, particularly in addressing barriers such as accessibility, affordability, and fear of side effects. Targeted communication strategies and public health initiatives are recommended to enhance HPVVAA and uptake, ultimately contributing to the global goal of cervical cancer prevention and control.
Chromomeres, Topologically Associating Domains and Structural Organization of Chromatin Bodies in Somatic Nuclei (Macronuclei) of Ciliates
Authors: Popenko Vladimir , Spirin Pavel , Prassolov Vladimir , Leonova Olga
Published: November 2024

Background: In the twentieth century, the textbook idea of packaging genomic material in the cell nucleus and metaphase chromosomes was the presence of a hierarchy of structural levels of chromatin organization: nucleosomes – nucleosomal fibrils –30 nm fibrils – chromomeres – chromonemata – mitotic chromosomes. Chromomeres were observed in partially decondensed chromosomes and interphase chromatin as ~100 nm globular structures. They were thought to consist of loops of chromatin fibres attached at their bases to a central protein core. However, Hi-C and other related methods led to a new concept of chromatin organization in the nuclei of higher eukaryotes, according to which nucleosomal fibrils themselves determine the spatial configuration of chromatin in the form of topologically associating domains (TADs), which are formed by a loop extrusion process and are regions whose DNA sequences preferentially contact each other. Somatic macronuclei of ciliates are transcriptionally active, highly polyploid nuclei. A feature of macronuclei is that their genome is represented by a large number of “gene-sized” (~1–25 kb) or of “subchromosomal” (~50–1700 kb) size minichromosomes. The inactive macronuclear chromatin of “subchromosomal” ciliates usually looks like bodies 100–200 nm in size. The aim of this work was to find out which of the models (chromomeres or TADs) is more consistent with the confocal and electron microscopic data on structural organization of chromatin bodies. Methods: Macronuclear chromatin of four “subchromosomal” ciliate species (Bursaria truncatella, Paramecium multimicronucleatum, Didinium nasutum, Climacostomum virens) was examined using electron microscopy and confocal microscopy during regular growth, starvation and encystment. Results: Chromatin bodies ~70–200 nm in size observed in the interphase macronuclei consisted of tightly packed nucleosomes. Some of them were interconnected by one or more chromatin fibrils. Under hypotonic conditions in vitro, chromatin bodies decompacted, forming rosette-shaped structures of chromatin fibrils around an electron-dense centre. When the activity of the macronucleus decreased during starvation or encystment, chromatin bodies assembled into chromonema-like fibrils 100–300 nm thick. This data allows us to consider chromatin bodies as analogues of chromomeres. On the other hand, most likely, the formation of DNA loops in chromatin bodies occurs by the loop extrusion as in TADs. Conclusions: The data obtained is well explained by the model, according to which the chromatin bodies of ciliate macronuclei combine features inherent in both chromomeres and TADs; that is, they can be considered as chromomeres with loops packed in the same way as the loops in TADs.
Impact of Coenzyme Q10 on Mitochondrial Metabolism: A Complementary Study Using Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging and Electron Microscopy
Authors: Wieland Johannes Georg , Naskar Nilanjon , Reess Kirsten , dos Santos Daniela Nobre Sarmento , Weise Julia M. , Blatt Thomas , Kordes Sebastian , Walther Paul , Rück Angelika
Published: November 2024

Background: Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), also known as ubiquinone-10, is an important molecule of the mitochondrial respiratory chain that acts as an electron carrier between complexes I, II, and III and additionally functions as an antioxidant. Due to its bioenergetic properties, CoQ10 is of high interest for therapeutic and cosmetic use. This study aims to characterize the metabolic impact of CoQ10 on primary human dermal fibroblasts (HDF) using fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) and electron microscopy. Methods: FLIM of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) is a robust method to characterize cellular energy metabolism that also provides spatial information. Electron microscopy offers a way to characterize the ultrastructure of mitochondria and reveal features not visible in FLIM. Results: We reported a shift towards longer lifetimes of NADH in primary fibroblasts from ten different donors upon treatment with CoQ10, which indicates the stimulation of oxidative phosphorylation. This is confirmed by phasor-based metabolic pattern segmentation, which showed localization of longer NADH lifetimes in CoQ10-treated cells, indicating activated mitochondria in the cytoplasm. In addition, a complementary investigation of the mitochondrial ultrastructure using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) tomography showed a reduction in stress granules in CoQ10-treated cells. Conclusions: Together, FLIM and electron microscopy (EM) imaging strongly imply that CoQ10 stimulates cellular energy metabolism.
Understanding Multiple Sclerosis Pathophysiology and Current Disease-Modifying Therapies: A Review of Unaddressed Aspects
Authors: Mohammed Eiman M. A.
Published: November 2024

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex autoimmune disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) with an unknown etiology and pathophysiology that is not completely understood. Although great strides have been made in developing disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) that have significantly improved the quality of life for MS patients, these treatments do not entirely prevent disease progression or relapse. Identifying the unaddressed pathophysiological aspects of MS and developing targeted therapies to fill in these gaps are essential in providing long-term relief for patients. Recent research has uncovered some aspects of MS that remain outside the scope of available DMTs, and as such, yield only limited benefits. Despite most MS pathophysiology being targeted by DMTs, many patients still experience disease progression or relapse, indicating that a more detailed understanding is necessary. Thus, this literature review seeks to explore the known aspects of MS pathophysiology, identify the gaps in present DMTs, and explain why current treatments cannot entirely arrest MS progression.
CELF6 as an Oncogene in Colorectal Cancer: Targeting Stem-Cell-Like Properties Through Modulation of HOXA5 mRNA Stability
Authors: Fu Zhiming , Wang Xiang , Chen Zhiju , Wang Baochun , Huang Weiwei , Liu Xin
Published: November 2024

Background: Emerging evidence indicates the essential role of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in the development and progression of various cancers, including colorectal cancer (CRC). CELF6, a member of the cytosine-uridine-guanine-binding protein (CUG-BP), Elav-like family (CELF), has been reported to be downregulated in CRC tissues. This study aims to elucidate the role and underlying mechanisms of CELF6 in CRC progression. Methods: The expression levels and prognostic significance of CELF6, along with its association with homeobox A5 (HOXA5), were analyzed using University of Alabama at Birmingham Cancer Data Analysis Portal (UALCAN), PrognoScan, and Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) databases. The expression of CELF6 was further assessed through quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), immunoblotting, and immunohistochemistry. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of CELF6 on CRC cell proliferation, stemness and tumorigenesis, and to elucidate the molecular mechanisms. Results: CELF6 was found to be downregulated in CRC and was associated with poor prognosis. Functional studies revealed that overexpression of CELF6 resulted in decreased CRC cell proliferation and stemness in vitro, reduced tumor growth in vivo, and induced G1 phase cell cycle arrest. Mechanistically, CELF6 regulated the expression of HOXA5 by modulating its mRNA stability. Furthermore, the knockdown of HOXA5 reversed the inhibitory effects of CELF6 on CRC cell proliferation and stemness, demonstrating that silencing HOXA5 counteracted the suppressive effects of CELF6. Conclusions: This study is the first to identify CELF6 as a suppressor of stemness and a modulator of CRC progression. These findings provide new insights into the role of CELF6 in CRC and highlight its potential as a novel therapeutic target.
Methodological support for measures to control and monitor the effects of industrial fibers on human health
Authors: Tskhomariia Iraklii M. , Kovalevskiy Evgeny V. , Fedoruk Anna A. , Drugova Olga G.
Published: November 2024

Industrial fibers and materials, containing industrial fibers, are currently widely used in industrial and civil construction, and many other sectors of the national economy. Methodological approaches for monitoring workers and general population exposure to these fibers in the country should be improved. In this regard, drafts of four new methodical documents were developed, and one of existing methodical document was changed. Two documents are related to the determination of concentrations of industrial fibers in the air of a working zone and environment using phase-contrast optical and scanning electron microscopy. The scanning electron microscopy technique is considered as primary, allowing the determination of the types of industrial fibers in the air, and phase-contrast optical microscopy is the appropriate method for use at the relevant industrial enterprises. Two other interconnected documents contain an algorithm for examining various objects in order to identify potential sources of air pollution by industrial fibers and, also the fact of former air pollutions, which will allow assessing the risks (probability) of workers and general population exposure to industrial fibers. The proposed methods have been tested by field studies and harmonized with similar foreign ones to allow comparison. The current method of measuring of the mass concentration of dust in the air of the working zone does not comply with the current legislation and does not allow comparing the obtained results of measurements of individual types of dust with the existing national standards.
Improvement of operational monitoring of the psychological state of a person in prolonged isolation
Authors: Supolkina Natalia S. , Yusupova Anna K. , Polyanichenko Alexey A. , Ryumin Oleg O. , Bubeev Yuri A.
Published: November 2024

Introduction. The article describes a methodological scheme for operational psychological monitoring of the crew in isolation, simulating the effect of space flight factors on humans. Examples of intermediate experimental results in the form of qualitative operational data (psychological profiles of participants) are given. The methodological approach can be applied in the practice of operational monitoring of work teams (crews) whose professional activities take place in conditions of social isolation and/or the action of extreme environmental factors.
The aim of the study is to test a comprehensive, minimally invasive method of psychological monitoring of participants in an isolation experiment to obtain operational data.
Materials and methods. The SIRIUS-23 experiment is the fourth stage of the 365-day SIRIUS international project. The participants in the simulated isolation were 6 people, 2 men (±34.5) and 4 women (±30.5). The basic principles of building a diagnostic scheme for psychological monitoring are complexity and an individual approach. The scheme includes three structural blocks (score scale, semi-structured confidential conversation, computerized techniques), each of which is aimed at solving a specific task.
Results. The authors presented the depersonalized psychological data of two anonymized participants of the experiment as intermediate results of the study. Psychological profiles contain generalized operational data, divided by time for ease of analysis into three equal parts — trimesters. The use of three diagnostic blocks allows us to describe the dynamics of changes in the psycho-emotional state of specialists working in isolation: the appearance of adverse signs of mental asthenization.
Limitations. The study is limited to a small sample of subjects.
Conclusion. As a result of the application of the methodological scheme, each of its structural blocks complements each other. For example, certain signs of asthenization in daily recordings of negotiations, which are obtained using a score scale (negatively colored negative reactions, parasitic words, etc.), are confirmed by data from computer techniques and correspondence. The use of a three-part methodological scheme is possible in areas of professional activity where people are under the influence of extreme factors. Thus, there is an interpretative context (an understanding of the reasons is being formed, the basis for making recommendations is being laid).
Ethics. The experimental program was approved by the section of the Academic Council and approved by the Biomedical Ethics Commission at the Russian Scientific Center — Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences (protocol No. 643 dated 07.07.2023).
On the quantum origin of objects' motion and gravity effect
Authors: ZAARAOUI hind
Published: November 2024

The origin of motion is a longstanding question in physics. While current models describe how particles, relativistic or not, move under forces and fields, the fundamental cause of motion remains elusive and might explain the challenge of linking quantum and macroscopic scales. What if, in reality, everything is motionless except one type of particle moving perpetually at the speed of light, carrying particles' information through space? Here we show that the particles A may transmit their existence information via photons to virtual particles $B$ in space, which would allow the exchange of existence characteristics between A and B. Thus, A are annihilated by their corresponding virtual antiparticles, and $B$ become real particles, potentially substituting A in new locations. This creates the appearance of A's motion in space. For clustered real particles, virtual particles closer to all this set have higher probability to receive the information photons, and may substitute these real particles. This enables us to infer the gravitational effect between objects, with this probability serving to define the curvature of spacetime, as described in general relativity. This theory suggests black holes are regions where this probability reaches 1 and offers insights into the nature of dark matter and energy.
Structural Code Graphing for Automated Ransomware Detection Using Novel Quantum Graph-Spectral Fingerprinting
Authors: Watts Edward , Worthington Alexander , Sheffield Eleanor , Featherstone Charlotte
Published: November 2024

A novel framework integrating graph theory and quantum-inspired spectral analysis has been developed to address the evolving complexity of modern cyber threats. The methodology transforms ransomware code into structured graph representations, enabling the extraction of high-dimensional features that encapsulate both structural and behavioral characteristics. Spectral decomposition techniques, grounded in quantum computational principles, enhance the discriminative power of feature extraction by leveraging eigenvalues and eigenvectors derived from graph Laplacians. The incorporation of machine learning classifiers, including graph convolutional networks, facilitated accurate and scalable classification across diverse ransomware families and obfuscation levels. Rigorous experiments demonstrated the framework’s ability to generalize effectively, achieving superior detection rates and robustness against evasion strategies compared to traditional methods. Computational efficiency was prioritized through modular processing pipelines, ensuring seamless integration with existing security systems. Evaluation metrics such as detection rate, precision, and recall highlighted the framework's reliability in both controlled and realistic settings. The modular architecture provided flexibility in adapting to datasets of varying sizes and complexities, while energy consumption remained significantly lower than competing methods. The graph-based approach enabled a holistic encapsulation of ransomware behavior, offering insights into the distinct patterns that differentiate malicious from benign activity. Spectral embeddings enhanced classification performance even in scenarios involving polymorphic and highly obfuscated samples. The research introduced a scalable and practical solution for threat detection, emphasizing its relevance to modern cybersecurity applications. Overall, the study contributes a transformative perspective on addressing sophisticated cyber threats through innovative computational paradigms.
Beyond the Barre: Exploring Factors and Coping Mechanisms in Dancers' Mental Health and Injury
Authors: Kuritsyn Maria
Published: November 2024

Ballet, a physically and artistically demanding discipline, is deeply rooted in a culture that normalizes pain and injury and minimizes the impact on mental health and wellbeing. This study investigates the connection between dance culture, injury experiences, and mental health among ballet dancers. Specifically, it explores how injuries impact dancers' psychological well-being and the coping mechanisms they employ. A survey was administered to 20 San Francisco, California, Bay Area female dancers. It gathered quantitative and qualitative data on their training, injuries, mental health, and studio environments. Statistical analysis revealed significant correlations between injury severity and mental health challenges, including anxiety, body image concerns, and perfectionism. Qualitative responses highlighted a prevalent culture of risk, where dancers often feel pressure to prioritize performance over well-being. Findings suggest that positive coping strategies, such as counseling, imagery, and relaxation techniques, can mitigate these effects. By addressing these challenges, this study aims to promote healthier practices within the dance community and emphasize the need for supportive studio environments and mental health resources for dancers.
TEMNOS (Temnospondyl Evolution, Morphology, Nomenclature, and Other Stuff), an openly available database of curated temnospondyl datasets
Authors: Gee Bryan Michael
Published: November 2024

This preprint introduces and describes a living database, TEMNOS (Temnospondyl Evolution, Morphology, Nomenclature, and Other Stuff) comprised of individual curated datasets, that broadly encompasses data pertaining to temnospondyls, a diverse, globally distributed, and temporally long-ranging clade of non-amniotes ('amphibians' in a broad sense) that has been widely linked to the origin of modern amphibians. The database has no "designed" or "prescribed" usage (i.e. is not linked to a singular manuscript that is actively in development or review) but builds upon smaller-scale datasets that I have collated over the years as part of other projects. It is being developed, formalized, and published now in recognition of the importance and frequent inclusion of temnospondyls in broad macroevolutionary studies across broad temporal, geographic, and taxonomic scales and in recognition of the current shortcomings of other synoptic works or large-scale databases that are presently relied upon for scientific analyses. The database is intended to be continuously refined and grown in various ways in order to overcome the common challenge of a static nature of academic publications and to provide a high-quality set of reference materials for a wide array of information around temnospondyl paleobiology and study. TEMNOS is intended to be a collaborative and responsive resource and is intended to be used by more audiences than just academics and for more purposes than just scholarly research. This preprint serves as the descriptor of the conceptual basis and motivation for TEMNOS and as a means of crediting primary data generators through an indexable output. It will be modified periodically to account for major developments of the database and to keep the cited literature current, as well as to acknowledge any new contributors/authors.
Energy conversion efficiency of carbon black-phosphoric acid ultracapacitor
Authors: Norian K.H.
Published: November 2024

The energy conversion efficiency of a carbon black-phosphoric acid composite ultracapacitor was determined. A typical ultracapacitor had a maximum energy storage capacity of 24.32J. It had a specific energy of 8.11 J/g of which, during discharge, 36% was dissipated internally in the ultracapacitor, in two resistances of 2.66Ω and 54.01Ω, where the latter resistor was in parallel with the charge storage capacitor of 18.53F. In discharge mode its energy conversion efficiency was 64% thereby delivering 15.56J to a 10Ω load resistor.
Impact of Packaging Factors on Consumer Purchase Decision of Energy Drinks in Nepal
Authors: Pandey Bomlal
Published: November 2024

Innovation in packaging relies heavily on connections within the research and development community and the packaging supply chain. This study explore the impact of the factors of packaging, which includes design, labels, innovation, and brand image on the consumer purchase decision of the energy drinks in case of Nepal. In this study descriptive and causal-comparative research design has used. The population and sample has based on primary sources, with a sample size of 400 respondents. Data has collected through a structured questionnaire, which includes demographic information and a Likert scale measuring the impact of various factors on consumer decision. The data is analyzed using SPSS tools, including mean, standard deviation, correlation, and regression. Microsoft Excel sheets has used for data collection procedures and tables as required. The study has provides a comprehensive view of the relationships between packaging design, innovation, labeling, and brand image and their impact on consumer purchase decisions. People are inclined to obtain food information through images in packaging. The findings underscore the critical role that packaging design, innovation, labeling, and brand image play in shaping consumer perceptions and driving purchase decisions. The positive correlations identified between packaging attributes and consumer purchase decisions highlight the importance of investing in packaging optimization efforts. In conclusion, market landscape, energy drink brands can leverage packaging design and innovation as a pivotal differentiating factor. By focusing on creating a packaging experience that is both distinct and memorable, brands can secure a competitive edge and establish a lasting connection with consumers.
The Extent and Nature of Poverty Problem in Rural Nepal
Authors: Dawadi Laxmi Prasad
Published: November 2024

Not available.
The Political and Historical Dynamics of Nepal-India Relations
Authors: Kandel Ishwori Prasad
Published: November 2024

This study examines Nepal's political and historical relationship with India, focusing on key events that shaped their interactions. The purpose is to analyze how Nepal navigated its geopolitical challenges between India and China, particularly in the context of its foreign policies from the 18th century to the post-2006 revolution period. Using a historical-analytical methodology, the research draws on secondary sources to trace Nepal's diplomatic and political strategies, emphasizing pivotal moments such as the 1950 Peace and Friendship Treaty, the 1962 Indo-China War, and the 1989 economic blockade. The findings reveal Nepal's consistent struggle to maintain sovereignty while balancing Indian influence. The study highlights the implications of this relationship for Nepal’s political and economic strategies in the broader regional context, emphasizing its importance for future diplomatic policies.
Affiliative Leadership Styles of Female Headteachers in Public High Schools in Nepal
Authors: Acharya Milan
Published: November 2024

This study explores the affiliative leadership styles of female head teachers in public high schools in Nepal. It aims to comprehend how subjective experiences and varied perceptions impact the leadership practiced by female headteachers through phenomenological feminist theoretical lenses. Two female headteachers were purposefully selected and interviewed for the purpose of data collection. Findings show that gender bias has a detrimental effect on female headteachers feelings of doubt about their own capacity for leadership. Nevertheless, these headteachers demonstrated resilience and accountability, which, in turn, projected their transformative potential, a change in stereotypes, and a positive impact on school governance. Affiliative leadership involves proactive and empowering strategies to promote diversity and teamwork. Also, the finding shows that female headteachers improve employee satisfaction by questioning conventional leadership norms and fostering a good culture at the workplace. By emphasizing the value of affiliative leadership in creating positive organizational cultures and improving educational outcomes, this study adds to the body of knowledge on educational leadership. It contributes to the understanding of effective leadership practices in educational contexts by referencing the insights, strategies, and contributions of female leaders in high schools in Nepal.
The Application of Cooperative Learning in English Reading in Secondary School: A Case Study in Mainland China
Authors: Yuheng Huang , Fengmei Zou , Yiyu Liao , Mengyi Zhang , Xinyuan Li
Published: November 2024

This paper explores the role of cooperative learning approach to English reading among secondary level students in China. As English as a foreign language is a part of school curriculum, developing students’ reading skills is essential to achieve the curricular goals. Since reading is challenging skill for non-native speakers, which is evident from the condition that despite teachers investing a lot of time in developing students’ reading skills, the level of improvement is not satisfactory. In the changed context of teaching and learning of English, cooperative learning has gradually become one of the most popular learning strategies in recent years as it encourages teachers and students to engage in complementing each other in learning, which greatly promotes learning interest and mobility, and also can be more conducive to teachers and students to break through the bottleneck of English reading. Two major questions raised were: a) Whether the cooperative learning affect students’ English reading ability? b) How does the cooperation affect students’ learning motivation in English reading? To respond to these questions, in this study, the data were gathered through an experiment conducted in grade eight that involved students in cooperative learning to develop their English reading. The results of the study indicated that cooperative learning improved students’ reading ability, enhanced their motivation and improved students’ learning enthusiasm. This implies that English as foreign language learning contexts should prioritise students’ engagement in cooperative learning.
Conectando emocionalmente con el consumidor: el uso del cine documental en las estrategias de marketing en España
Authors: Torres Marín Alfonso Jesús
Published: November 2024

Introducción: El cine documental puede ser una herramienta efectiva en marketing para establecer conexiones emocionales con la audiencia, destacando la identificación del consumidor con la marca. La hipótesis central de la investigación sugiere que el cine documental fortalece las relaciones emocionales entre marcas y consumidores, aumentando la fidelidad y el rendimiento de las campañas publicitarias. Metodología: La metodología incluye una revisión bibliográfica, estudios de casos de uso del cine documental en marketing y entrevistas en profundidad a expertos en marketing, publicidad y cine documental en España. Resultados: Los resultados indican que el Marketing Documental es efectivo para generar una mayor cercanía entre el cliente y la marca, utilizando vivencias reales y técnicas cinematográficas auténticas. Las empresas que emplean estas técnicas han logrado un fuerte arraigo en la mente del consumidor, aumentando la confianza y fidelidad. Discusión: El uso de herramientas del cine documental, como la verdad y la transparencia, storytelling, y recursos técnicos específicos, se valoran como clave para crear una conexión emocional con el consumidor. Conclusiones: El estudio concluye que el Marketing Documental puede ser una estrategia efectiva para establecer conexiones emocionales profundas y auténticas con los consumidores, ofreciendo una ventaja competitiva en un mercado saturado de publicidad convencional.
Mathematics Teachers’ and Students’ Learning Evaluation for National Learning Camp: Basis for Supplementary YouTube Video Lessons
Authors: Insorio Jorelyn Estrellado , Manalo Deseree Castillo
Published: November 2024

The National Learning Camp (NLC) in the Philippines aims to bridge the learning gaps created by the COVID-19 epidemic. Therefore, this study evaluated the NLC based on the perspectives of the mathematics teachers and students who participated in the camp. An explanatory sequential design was employed to gather rich data. An evaluation form and interview guide questions were used to collect data subjected to content validation and pilot testing. The findings reveal that mathematics teachers and students evaluated the NLC effectively in learning activities, materials, support, and outcomes. However, mathematics teachers experienced challenges like errors in the printed materials, hard-to-contextualize lessons, broad topics, time-consuming preparation of instructional materials, and inappropriate learning content. Similarly, students experienced challenges such as unclear printed materials, too many lessons that needed to be covered, too much content, and challenging lessons. As an output, teacher-made supplementary YouTube video lessons are created based on the students’ suggestions to help those who participate in NLC for grade 7
ZONING OF THE SOUTHERN RUSSIA TERRITORY ACCORDING TO HEAT AND MOISTURE SUPPLY FOR THE COTTON INTRODUCTION
Authors:   Russian Scientific Research Institute of Land Improvement Problems, Novocherkassk, Russian Federation, Masnyi Roman S. , Balakay Georgiy T. ,   Russian Scientific Research Institute of Land Improvement Problems, Novocherkassk, Russian Federation, Yurkova Rita Ye. ,   Russian Scientific Research Institute of Land Improvement Problems, Novocherkassk, Russian Federation, Selitskiy Sergei A. ,   Russian Scientific Research Institute of Land Improvement Problems, Novocherkassk, Russian Federation, Babenko Alexey A. ,   Russian Scientific Research Institute of Land Improvement Problems, Novocherkassk, Russian Federation
Published: November 2024

Purpose: zoning of the southern Russia territory by heat and moisture supply corresponding to the ecological needs of cotton.
Materials and methods. Zoning was carried out on the territory of eight entities forming the south of Russia: the Republics of Dagestan, Kalmykia, the Crimea, Krasnodar and Stavropol territories, Astrakhan, Volgograd and Rostov regions. Data on the values of average daily temperatures were collected at 51 meteorological stations in the south of Russia in the entities under consideration for the period from 2012 to 2023. The sum of effective temperatures was adopted as an indicator characterizing the thermal resource of the territory and determining the possibility of cotton cultivation. The cotton plant requirement for the amount of effective temperatures is determined to be 1560 °C for early-ripening varieties, 1625–1635 °C for mid-ripening varieties, and more than 1800 °C for mid-late and late-ripening varieties.
Results. As a result of calculating the sums of effective temperatures, a map of isolines of the sum of effective temperatures for cotton was constructed. It was revealed that the thermal resources of the southern Russia partially correspond to the ecological needs of cotton. During the research, it was stated that in the territory under consideration the sums of effective temperatures vary from approximately 1500 to 1800 °C.
Conclusions. The analysis of the thermal resources of the south of Russia allows us to conclude that the northern boundary of the possible placement of cotton crops is located on the isoline corresponding to 1500 °C, passing through Rostov and Volgograd regions, as well as the flat part of the Republic of Crimea. The moisture conditions of the south of Russia indicate that a guaranteed harvest of raw cotton is possible with irrigation.
FERTILIZER RATES FOR YOUNG TABLE GRAPE VINEYARDS WITH DRIP IRRIGATION SYSTEMS
Authors:   Russian Scientific Research Institute of Land Improvement Problems, Novocherkassk, Russian Federation, Babichev Alexander N. , Balakay Georgiy T. ,   Russian Scientific Research Institute of Land Improvement Problems, Novocherkassk, Russian Federation, Babenko Alexey A. ,   Russian Scientific Research Institute of Land Improvement Problems, Novocherkassk, Russian Federation, Dolgov Vladislav Yu. ,   Russian Scientific Research Institute of Land Improvement Problems, Novocherkassk, Russian Federation
Published: November 2024

Purpose: to determine rational rates of mineral fertilizer application on young vineyards of table grape varieties with drip irrigation systems.
Materials and methods. The studies were conducted in Belogorsk district of the Republic of Crimea in the foothill zone. The soils of the experimental plot are solonetzic chernozem. The studies were conducted on the Podarok Irine variety, zoned for the conditions of the Republic of Crimea. Irrigation with drip irrigation systems was carried out with a decrease in soil moisture in the 0.6 m layer to 75–80 % of minimum water capacity throughout the growing season. The calculated rate of mineral fertilizer application for the planned yield in the control variant was N80P60K60.
Results. The highest indicators of plant height and vine ripening were obtained in the experimental variant with a 20 % higher dose of mineral fertilizers. The average net productivity of leaf photosynthesis per day of vegetation in the experimental variants varied from 1.1 to 1.3 g/(sq. m·day) in the first year. In the second year, this indicator changed from 2.0 to 2.7 g/(sq. m·day), and in the third year it was 1.8–2.9 g/(sq. m·day). The obtained dependencies for plant height and shoot ripening made it possible to determine that increasing the fertilizer rate on young grape plantations by more than 20% is inappropriate, since it leads to a decrease in productivity.
Conclusions. The yield of the third-year grapes varied within 2.47–2.91 t/ha and was 39–64 % higher than in the variant without fertilizer application. The conducted studies made it possible to state that with an increase in the rates of mineral fertilizers by 10 and 20 %, there was an increase in the yield of the third-year grapes by 4.7 and 9.2 %, respectively. The rational rate of fertilizers on young vineyards on chernozem soils is N96P72K72 under the conditions of the foothill zone of the Republic of Crimea.
THE TRENDS OF HEAT AND MOISTURE SUPPLY INDICATORS IN THE NORTHWESTERN AGRICULTURAL ZONE OF ROSTOV REGION
Authors:   Federal Rostov Agricultural Research Centre, Rassvet, Russian Federation, Fomenko Marina A. , Ilyinskaya Isida N. ,   Federal Rostov Agricultural Research Centre, Rassvet, Russian Federation, Tseluyko Oksana A. ,   Federal Rostov Agricultural Research Centre, Rassvet, Russian Federation, Oleynikova Tatyana A. ,   Federal Rostov Agricultural Research Centre, Rassvet, Russian Federation, Babrovskaya Elena A. ,   Federal Rostov Agricultural Research Centre, Rassvet, Russian Federation
Published: November 2024

Purpose: to analyze changes in air temperature and precipitation in the northwestern agricultural zone of Rostov region (since there is currently an urgent need to take into account climate changes in a specific soil and climate zone to adjust the composition of crops grown). Continuous operational monitoring of growing conditions for agricultural crops is necessary throughout the growing season.
Materials and methods. Synoptic and statistical research methods were used.
Results. A trend toward an increase in the average annual air temperature and the sum of temperatures above 10 °C is shown. The warming trend in recent decades in the northwestern zone has become increasingly pronounced, and the annual amount of precipitation has a significant upward trend.
Conclusions. During the study period, a trend toward an increase in the average annual temperature and annual precipitation was observed. In general, a comparison of the average annual air temperature for 2000–2023 and 1950–1999 showed an increase from 8.6 to 10.2 °C, or by 18.6 %, while an increase in the average annual precipitation for the study period by 7.5 % was noted. Analysis of the supply curve showed that the probability of exceeding the amount of precipitation of 658 mm is 5 %, 530 mm – 25 %, 458 mm – 50 %, 392 mm – 75 % and 275 mm – 95 %. In general, there is a general trend towards increasing aridization of the climate of the territory, which requires adjustment of breeding work taking into account climate change trends and the implementation of special organizational and economic measures to increase the humidity of the territory due to agro-technical cultivation methods.
ALGORITHM FOR SELECTING A PUMP AND A DIESEL INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE WHEN ASSEMBLING A PUMPING UNIT FOR RECLAMATION PURPOSES
Authors:   Russian Scientific Research Institute of Land Improvement Problems, Novocherkassk, Russian Federation, Voevodin Oleg V. , Kozhanov Anton L. ,   Russian Scientific Research Institute of Land Improvement Problems, Novocherkassk, Russian Federation
Published: November 2024

Purpose: to develop an algorithm for arranging a pumping unit for irrigation purposes taking into account the energy-saving operating mode of a diesel internal combustion engine and with the ability to adjust head and rate specifications in a wide, acceptable range.
Materials and methods. The studies were conducted using a simulated scheme that includes a mobile pumping unit that withdraw irrigation water from a canal and transfers it via a pipeline to two center pivot sprinklers operating alternately. Generally accepted formulas to calculate power, torque, and flow were used. The proportionality law, selection method, and graphoanalytical method were applied.
Results. The proposed algorithm has the following stages: source data capture – preliminary selection of a pump and an internal combustion engine – establishment of the pump speed control range – calculation of head, flow rate, power and torque on the pump shaft – digitization of the main characteristics of the internal combustion engine in a given crankshaft speed limit – comparison of pump and engine torques – comparison of pump and internal combustion engine capacities – analysis of graphic data on the torque and power of the pump and internal combustion engine – calculation of the energy characteristic of the water flow (Q·H) and construction of its dependence on RPM – clarification of the number of revolutions of the engine crankshaft to ensure the specified head-flow characteristics of the pump. In this case, the selection of the internal combustion engine was made taking into account its operation within the crankshaft speed limits providing the minimum specific fuel consumption.
Conclusions. The developed algorithm allows selecting elements of a reclamation pumping unit taking into account the energy-saving operating mode of the internal combustion engine, as well as specifying the required pump shaft speed for the required performance.