bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microemulsion-based topical hydrogels containing lemongrass leaf essential oil (Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf) and mango seed kernel extract (Mangifera indica Linn) for acne treatment: Preparation and in-vitro evaluations
Authors: Nguyen Ngoc Nha Thao , Nguyen Thi Trang Dai , Vo Duc Linh , Than Dang Tuyet Minh , Tien Gia Phuoc , Pham Duy Toan
Published: October 2024

Current treatments for severe acne include combinations of synthetic anti-inflammatory and antibacterial drugs, which possess numerous side effects. Therefore, this study developed microemulsion-based hydrogel containing lemongrass leaf essential oil (Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf) and mango seed kernel extract (Mangifera indica Linn) as a potential natural therapy for inflammatory acne. To this end, the microemulsions were first prepared using pseudo-ternary phase diagrams with soybean oil and coconut oil, cremophor RH40, and PEG 400. The optimal formula could load 1% lemongrass oil and 10% mango extract, possessed a spherical droplet size of ~18.98 nm, a zeta potential of -5.56 mV, and a thermodynamic stability. Secondly, the microemulsion-based hydrogel was developed by simple mixing the optimal microemulsion in carbopol-940 hydrogel (3.5% w/w). The product showed a viscosity of ~3728 cPs, a pH of 5.4-6.2, a spreadability of ~24 cm, an in-vitro Franz-cell cumulative release rate of ~80% for polyphenol content and ~60% for citral within 12 h, and a good physicochemical stability of > 3 months. Thirdly, the skin compatibility/irritability of the microemulsion-based hydrogel was determined by the HET-CAM assay, which showed non-irritation level. Finally, the anti-inflammatory activities of the hydrogel, using heat-induced BSA denaturation assay and LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 NO inhibition assay, was 4-times higher than that of the reference drug Klenzit-C® (adapalene and clindamycin gel). Moreover, the hydrogel possessed strong anti-biofilm activity in Cutibacterium acnes, comparable with Klenzit-C®. Conclusively, the microemulsion-based hydrogel containing lemongrass oil and mango seed extract demonstrated much potentials to be a promising natural drug for acne treatment.
Nitrile glove composition and performance—Substandard properties and inaccurate packaging information
Authors: Herkins Ashley , Dey Sriloy , Conroy Dan , Cornish Katrina
Published: October 2024

The durability and mechanical properties of synthetic medical gloves, such as those made from nitrile, vary drastically depending on the manufacturer. This study reports the chemical composition of several brands of nitrile gloves via FTIR and solid-state NMR analysis and relates composition to glove durability (found via GAD), mechanical performance (found via Instron), and whether the gloves meet or fail ASTM International standards. Out of the four nitrile examination glove brands tested, American Nitrile Slate brand had superior durability results and was found to be made of acrylonitrile butadiene rubber, as expected. The U.S. Medical glove brand, which was also found to be pure nitrile, had the superior tensile results, consistently reaching over 800% elongation before breaking. Although Restore Touch brand exam gloves were made of nitrile, they exhibited substandard tensile strength and durability due to the thinness of the glove, which barely met the ASTM minimum thickness value. The Vglove brand glove had the overall worst mechanical properties, did not meet ASTM requirements, and had an NMR spectrum consistent with that of a polyvinyl chloride glove, rather than nitrile. Gloves that fail to meet the minimum performance requirements should not be used for medical purposes to protect the health and safety of consumers.
Exploring the feasibility of FOCUS DWI with deep learning reconstruction for breast cancer diagnosis: A comparative study with conventional DWI
Authors: Ming Yue , Yang Fan , Xiao Yitian , Yue Shuting , Peng Pengfei , Yue Xun , Pu Qian , Yang Huiyi , Liang Huilou , Zhang Bo , Huang Juan , Sun Jiayu
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study compared field-of-view (FOV) optimized and constrained undistorted single-shot diffusion-weighted imaging (FOCUS DWI) with deep-learning-based reconstruction (DLR) to conventional DWI for breast imaging.

Methods

This study prospectively enrolled 49 female patients suspected of breast cancer from July to December 2023. The patients underwent conventional and FOCUS breast DWI and data were reconstructed with and without DLR. Two radiologists independently evaluated three images per patient using a 5-point Likert scale. Objective evaluations, including signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), were conducted using manual region of interest-based analysis. The subjective and objective evaluations were compared using the Friedman test.

Results

The scores for the overall image quality, anatomical details, lesion conspicuity, artifacts, and distortion in FOCUS-DLR DWI were higher than in conventional DWI (all P < 0.001). The SNR of FOCUS-DLR DWI was higher than that of conventional and FOCUS DWI (both P < 0.001), while FOCUS and conventional DWI were similar (P = 0.096). Conventional, FOCUS, and FOCUS-DLR DWI had similar CNR and ADC values.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that images produced by FOCUS-DLR DWI were superior to conventional DWI, supporting the applicability of this technique in clinical practice. DLR provides a new approach to optimize breast DWI.
Microbiological profile and prevalence of histamine-producing bacteria in fresh sardines stored at different temperatures
Authors: Khatouf Rachid , Dahani Said , El Hariri Oleya , Amiyare Rajaa , Bouchriti Nourredine
Published: October 2024

Background and Aim: The European pilchard (Sardina pilchardus) is an important fish species for the Moroccan economy in terms of production and export. Biogenic amine histamine is a metabolite produced in the flesh of some fish species after death due to the decarboxylation of free histidine by histaminogenic bacteria. Failure to control the histamine risk in European pilchard may lead to public health and socioeconomic issues. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of histaminogenic bacteria in association with histamine levels and the growth of microflora in Moroccan sardines (European pilchard).

Materials and Methods: We conducted the study by monitoring Moroccan sardines of histamine content and microbiological profile (aerobic plate count [APC], coliforms, and thermo-tolerant coliforms [TTC]) during 6 days of storage at three different temperatures (0°C, 10°C, and ambient temperature [22°C]). The histamine assay was performed using a spectrofluorometric method, and the microbiological identification of histamine-producing bacteria was performed using a combination of biochemical and molecular tests.

Results: The histamine content in European pilchard stored at 0°C was negligible. However, high concentrations were observed at 10°C and 22°C. The microbiological profile showed a positive association between microflora counts and histamine content according to storage time. At 0°C, a moderate increase in the APC, a decrease in coliforms, and an absence of TTC were observed. The rapid proliferation of all microflora was observed at 10°C, whereas at 22°C, the proliferation was almost exponential. Bacterial identification revealed the exclusive presence of species belonging to the Enterobacteriaceae family at varying frequencies depending on storage temperature. Morganella morganii and Proteus mirabilis had the highest histamine induction rates in L-histidine-supplemented broth, with 1600 and 255 parts per million (ppm), respectively, after 48-h incubation at 35°C. Klebsiella ozaenae could produce 136 ppm and Serratia plymuthica 115 ppm. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction showed positive results for the presence of genes associated with histidine decarboxylase. The hdc genes of M. morganii, P. mirabilis, and K. ozaenae were successfully amplified and exhibited strong similarity with the reference gene of M. morganii.

Conclusion: This study describes for the first time the hdc gene in bacteria that form histamine in Moroccan sardines. The results also confirm that respect for the cold chain integrity is a crucial factor in histamine management. This information should help stakeholders in the implementation of sound strategies for managing the hazards associated with seafood and their products.

Keywords: Enterobacteriaceae, histamine, Histaminogenic bacteria, polymerase chain reaction, sardine, seafood.
Evaluation of the productivity and costs of excavator-based mechanized tree planting in Finland based on automated data collection
Authors:   School of Forest Sciences, University of Eastern Finland (UEF), P.O. Box 111, FI-80101 Joensuu, Finland, Kemppainen Kalle ,   Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), Yliopistokatu 6, FI-80100 Joensuu, Finland, Kärhä Kalle , Laitila Juha , Sairanen Antti , Kankaanhuhta Ville , Viiri Heli , Peltola Heli
Published: October 2024

The poor cost-effectiveness of mechanized planting (MECP) is the main reason for the low mechanization rate of planting. In this study, we investigated the productivity of the mechanized excavator-based planting of Norway spruce (Picea abies [L.] H. Karst.) seedlings based on data collected by the Risutec Asta documentation system. We also compared the costs of a MECP chain with two different manual planting (MAP) chains, where mounding was carried out by a crawler excavator (EXC) or a continuously advancing mounder (CONT). The MECP of seedlings was carried out using an EXC equipped with a Risutec PM-1 60 planting device. Generally, the nine study sites in western Finland contained few surface obstacles (e.g., the logging residues had mainly been harvested), which made the conditions very suitable for MECP. The average production time taken by the MECP was 9 h ha-1. The operating hour (G15-h) productivity averaged 215 seedlings G15-h-1 , with the mean planting time being 13.8 s seedling-1. Loading 160 seedlings into the seedling cassette took approximately 10 min (3.8 s seedling-1). Overall, the cost of the MECP was about 5% lower than for the EXC + MAP. However, when productivity was set at <200 seedlings G15-h-1 , the cost of the MECP was higher than that of the EXC + MAP. Based on our findings, the most cost-efficient planting chain was CONT + MAP. However, based on our results, the required level of productivity can be achieved if the sites are suitable for MECP and the machine operators are skilled.
Quality of minimally processed ‘Monalisa’ apples with antioxidants and edible toppings
Authors: Oliveira Álvaro Batista de , Mello-Farias Paulo , Cantillano Rufino Fernando Flores , Kirinus Marines Batalha Moreno , Herter Flávio Gilberto , Pasa Mateus da Silveira
Published: October 2024

Minimally processed fruits are an alternative to add value to products that are difficult to sell, in addition to facilitateconsumer consumption. The objective is to research pulp browning inhibition in a simulated commercialization of minimally processed ‘Monalisa’ apples, stored in a refrigerated environment. After being sanitized with sodium hypochlorite, the apples were cut and immersed in the following treatments: the control being sodium erythorbate (ES) + A (distilled water); ES + FM (cassava starch 3%); ES + AS (3% sodium alginate); ES + AM (6% waxy maize starch) and ES + AP (3% pine nut starch), all together with 1% calcium chloride. Afterwards, 10 slices were placed in a polyethylene tray, wrapped in stretchable PVC film and stored in a refrigerated chamber at 4 ºC ± 1 ºC and relative humidity of 90 - 95%. Phytochemical evaluations were performed at 0, 3, 6 and 9 days of storage. The applied treatments maintained fruit quality. The treatment with cassava starch and pine nut starch were efficient in preserving the darkening of the fruit pulp on day 9. As for the waxy corn starch treatment, the enzyme activity was lower in the period of 0 and 6 days, maintaining quality and delaying darkening. The control sample (ES + A + CC) stood out during the 9-day period, as there was a decrease in the activity of polyphenoloxidase and peroxidase enzymes.
Bioinsecticides based on neem (Azadirachta indica) and rue (Ruta graveolens) against Agrotis ipsilon
Authors: Souza Maria Roberta Rodrigues de , Lima Roberta Camile da Silva , Dantas Liliane Gallindo , Frensch Gustavo
Published: October 2024

Agrotis ipsilon is an important pest of several crops, where it causes damage to various parts of the plant such as stems, roots, leaves and tubers. Due to the growing demand for controlling these pests, there is a constant need for new products as the organisms acquire resistance after continuous contact. And this also generates a demand for bioinsecticides, which normally pose a lower health risk and are less harmful to the environment. Among the plants commonly used as insecticides are neem and rue, which have already been studied for several pests, although never together. This work aimed to determine the insecticidal activity of a natural insecticide derived from a mixture of neem and rue, commonly used in the region of Senhor do Bonfim-BA against A. ipsilon. Four different solutions were prepared, containing a) 20 neem leaves, 10 rue leaves and 5 A. ipsilon caterpillars, b) 20 neem leaves and 10 rue leaves, c) 20 neem leaves and d) 10 rue leaves. Water was tested as control. In the tests carried out, both the mixture popularly used in the region, containing neem, rue, and A. ipsilon caterpillars, as well as the solution containing only neem and rue had good results, killing all caterpillars in 72 hours. Isolated plant extracts did not obtain good results, only delaying the formation of pupae for neem extracts. Therefore, the mixture of Neem and Rue showed good insecticidal potential against A. ipsilon, with much higher activity than its isolated components.
Consumer liking of steamed green Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa ssp. chinensis) cultivated in formulated vegetable waste-based organic hydroponic solutions
Authors: Pardede Erika , Siahaan Ferlist , Hayati Rita
Published: October 2024

Chinese cabbage or pak choy (Brassica rapa ssp. chinensis) is often consumed because of its high nutritional content and several health advantages. Due to their promotion as being healthier and more ecologically friendly, hydroponic vegetables have seen a recent spike in consumer interest. The production of Chinese cabbage involved the processing of the vegetable waste to create various hydroponic solution formulations (F1 = banana peels, eggshells, and bean sprouts; F2 = banana humps, onion peels, bean sprouts, and moringa leaves; F3 = moringa leaves, onion peels, and bean sprouts; and F4 = AB Mix solution). They were applied at concentrations of 600, 900, 1,200, and 1,500 parts per million. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the type of hydroponic growth solutions and Chinese cabbage customer acceptance. As a result, using a hedonic test of consumer liking, a panel of 32 untrained individuals was asked to show their liking score on sensory attributes of Chinese cabbage. There was a significant difference in the color liking of Chinese cabbage as an effect of hydroponic solution formulation. However, both organic vegetable waste-based formulations did not statistically substantially affect consumer acceptance, which includes color, taste, flavor, texture, and overall liking. Ultimately, vegetable waste-based organic formulations can be used to produce Chinese cabbage that is as acceptable to customers as those prepared with inorganic AB-Mix solution.
Salt stress in melon (Cucumis melo L.) is alleviated by seed treatment with melatonin, modifying physiological and biochemical parameters
Authors: Castañares José Luis , Daurelio Lucas , Bouzo Carlos Alberto
Published: October 2024

Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) is a molecule with a reported importance in increasing tolerance to several types of stress. The present study investigates the effect of melon (Cucumis melo L.) seed treatment with melatonin solutions (0, 10, 50 and 100 μM) at two durations (6 and 12 h) on germination and initial growth of melon plants in salt stress. Germination under salt stress (14 dS m-1 EC) suffered a decrease, which is reversed after seed treatment with melatonin and followed to 80% with 10 and 50 μM solutions. Then, considering plant growing in salt stress (8 dS m-1 EC), the best growth and physiological and biochemical responses (xylem water potential, leaf relative water content, total chlorophyll, root viability, proline, malondialdehyde content, peroxidase and catalase activity) were measured in plants derived from 50 μM seed treatment. No changes were observed at the anatomical level. Results suggest that melatonin can alleviate the effect of salt stress during seed germination and early plant growth. There is a dose-dependent response.
Efecto de la pisada de la pulverizadora sobre el rendimiento del cultivo de soja en aplicaciones de fin de ciclo
Authors: Cavaglia Sergio , Crespo Roberto Javier , Garabelli Pons Mario , Righi Agustín , Morales Agustín
Published: October 2024

Las enfermedades de fin de ciclo en soja pueden causar una importante defoliación y pérdida de rendimiento. La aplicación de funguicidas con pulverizadora terrestre debe no solamente ser económicamente viable, sino que debe evaluarse el potencial daño producido por la pisada de la pulverizadora. Se desconoce el impacto de la pisada de la pulverizadora sobre la pérdida de rendimiento en función del momento de siembra y el distanciamiento entre líneas de cultivo. El objetivo del trabajo fue cuantificar y caracterizar el impacto de la pisada de la pulverizadora terrestre en aplicaciones de fin de ciclo y el efecto del distanciamiento entre líneas del cultivo sobre el rendimiento y la pérdida de grano de soja. Se seleccionaron 16 lotes con cultivo en producción de soja sembradas a distintas distancias entre líneas y aplicados a favor o perpendicular/oblicua a la línea de siembra. Se determinó la pérdida de rendimiento producidos por la pisada de la pulverizadora. La pérdida de rendimiento debida a la pisada de la pulverizadora varió entre 1,4 y 3,3%. El distanciamiento entre líneas de siembra y la dirección de pulverización parecen ser las principales variables que puede afectar el valor de pérdida de rendimiento. A mayor ancho del botalón se reduce la pérdida de rendimiento puesto que se reduce el número de pasadas. Al momento de la aplicación es importante considerar el estado del cultivo y la tecnología disponible que minimice las pérdidas ya sea por enfermedades como por la aplicación.
Analysis of the Impact of Agriculture on the Socio-Economic Development of Municipalities
Authors: Ilyоs Abdullayev  , Gurbanov Parviz , Shichiyakh Rustem , Zhuravlev Pavel , Aleshko Roman , Tretyak Anna
Published: October 2024

The development of agriculture plays an important role in providing the population with food. This topic is relevant in modern Russia in the context of a policy of self-sufficiency and import substitution, especially for traditionally agrarian regions. The purpose of the study is to develop a set of measures to solve the problems of the development of the agricultural sector in the MO "Kosh-Agachsky district". In preparing the article, such general scientific methods were used as: the method of analysis and synthesis, the method of comparison, the method of absolute values, relative values, the classification method, the tabular method. As a result of the conducted research, an analysis of the current state of agriculture in the MO "Kosh-Agachsky district" was performed; production by branches of agriculture was considered; problems in the development of agriculture in the Kosh-Agachsky district were found, and a set of measures for the development of the agricultural sector was developed. The conclusions noted that the production of livestock products in farms of all categories of the Ministry of Defense "Kosh-Agachsky district" showed negative dynamics. In order to eliminate the identified problems of agricultural development of the Kosh-Agachsky District MO, it was proposed: to carry out land reclamation work at the expense of state programs, subsidize transport costs, create a Collective Use Center for farmers of the Kosh-Agachsky district MO, in which it was proposed to introduce training programs, provide assistance in the delivery of feed, help to prepare farmers to apply for grant support, etc. The practical significance of the study lies in the fact that the results of the compiled forecast of the economic efficiency of the implementation of the proposed measures and programs of agricultural management can be used in the work of the administration of the Ministry of Defense "Kosh-Agachsky district".
Formation of Value Orientations Among University Students
Authors: Kiryakova Aida V. , Neretina Tatiana G. , Kiseleva Svetlana V. , Faibushevskii Maxim V. , Baklykova Tatyana Yu. , Terenteva Nina G.
Published: October 2024

The role of communication, the specifics and flow of communication processes and, accordingly, the requirements for their participants, is increasing in modern society and in all spheres of professional activity. In this connection, the problem of the formation of the communicative creativity of students at the stage of professional training at the university is actualized. At present, this aspect of the vocational training of students in technical areas lacks attention both in theory and in the practice of vocational education. The article examines the theoretical foundations of the theory of the formation of the communicative creativity of university students, interpreted as a set of interrelated and interdependent components that represent a certain integrity based on the use of a set of scientific approaches: systemic, participatory and discursive, implemented on the basis of the principles: transformation of cognitive content into emotional, freedom choice of communications, social reinforcement of creative behavior. The scientific approaches considered in the article were the theoretical foundations for the development of the theory of the formation of the communicative creativity of university students. The materials of the article are of practical value for organizing the process of vocational training in the context of the development of the communicative creativity of students.
Investigating the Hermeneutical Equivalence of Idioms in Translation
Authors: Aleksandrova Elena V. , Rubtsova Svetlana Y. , Timofeeva Lilia L. , Morozova Maria N. , Dudkina Anastasia I. , Tyrkheeva Nadezhda S.
Published: October 2024

The article presents a hermeneutic approach to idiomatic equivalents in terms of translation. The hermeneutic, activity-based approach to translation highlights the essence of translation as a process of transferring the way of thinking and thinking activity organization from one culture to another one. The application of the hermeneutic approach implies transition from the traditionally considered level of meanings to the level of meaning relations and the consideration of the idioms as a system of explicit and implicit meanings that are perceived on different levels of the system of thought-activity. The hermeneutical equivalence is viewed with the reference to the fixation of reflection on different levels of thought-activity system (thought-action, thought-communication and non-verbal thinking).
Youth Slang as a Social Language Code: Functions and Formation
Authors: Pesina Svetlana A. , Vinogradova Svetlana A. , Tomin Vitaly V. , Trofimova Nella A. , Rubtsova Svetlana Y. , Morozova Maria N. , Velikanova Svetlana S.
Published: October 2024

The article presents numerous functions and special features of slang, which is able to represent a variety of communicative intentions of the speakers. In addition to the desire of communicants to maintain the confidentiality of communication through slang, the latter is used as a means of language economy, as a mechanism for creating new concepts, as a way of emotional release, etc. The factors that determine the popularity of this language substandard and ensure the constant growth of neologisms in national language corpora are presented. The relevance of this study is determined by the great interest in the ways of word formation of non-standard vocabulary and the influence of sociolinguistic factors on this process. Such mechanisms for replenishing the vocabulary of youth slang as semantic, phonological and grammatical ways of word formation, antono-masia and foreign borrowings are presented.
Mathematical Thinking and Learning in Early Childhood: A Consolidated Qualitative Synthesis of Cutting-Edge Research Literature
Authors: Meylani Rusen
Published: October 2024

This study aims to synthesize current research on early childhood mathematical thinking and learning, focusing on cognitive development, instructional strategies, and environmental influences. The study provides a comprehensive qualitative analysis, integrating diverse theoretical frameworks and recent empirical findings for a nuanced understanding of early math education. Methodologically, it employs a thematic synthesis of qualitative studies, systematically reviewing literature from various academic databases to identify key patterns and themes. The research design involves coding text, developing descriptive themes, and generating analytical themes from peer-reviewed studies published between 2014 and 2024. The primary outcomes highlight the significant impact of play-based learning, interdisciplinary approaches, and parental involvement on early mathematical development. Additionally, the study underscores the role of technology and supportive learning environments in enhancing children's math skills. Conclusions emphasize the importance of holistic and culturally responsive educational practices. The practical implications provide valuable insights for educators, policymakers, researchers, and parents aiming to improve early childhood math education.
A/R/Tographic Investigation into Artistic Development Processes of Painting and Drawing Teacher Education Undergraduate Students
Authors: BAŞYURT MİNE , TAŞKESEN Selma
Published: October 2024

This study is a qualitative study designed to investigate the artistic development processes of undergraduate art education students a/r/tographically and to determine the role of portfolio preparation in this process. The present research was conducted in the workshop course of the 4th-grade students of the Department of Art and Art Education of a medium-sized university in the academic year 2022-2023 with the participation of 10 volunteer workshop students. The study group of this research was selected through criterion (purposive) sampling. The collection of the data of the research consisted of student educational development files (portfolio) prepared during the inquiry process, the question pool created, a/r/tograph opinions collected through a semi-structured interview form prepared by taking the opinions of field experts, peer opinions, expert opinions and student artistic products that emerged at the end of the process. Qualitative data analysis was used to analyse the data related to the a/r/tographic process, which is an art-based research method. Accordingly, content analysis was used in student, peer and expert evaluations of educational development files (portfolio). Students' artistic processes and a/r/tographic questioning processes were analysed using descriptive analysis. It was seen that the students were satisfied with the educational development files (portfolio) that they examined by making self-evaluation. Peers and experts who examined the educational development files (portfolio) stated that the files could generally be improved. It was observed that the students were involved in the a/r/tographic process in a determined or accidental way and that they continued the process by making inquiries. It was observed that students developed different perspectives with their artist identities and expressed themselves with process-oriented products that they reflected themselves.
Conservation agriculture and nutrient management strategies for enhancing crop performance, productivity and nutrient uptake under rice-wheat cropping system
Authors: Ranjan Shivani , Roy Dhirendra Kumar , Pramanick Biswajit , Singh Santosh Kumar , Kavita  , Jha Prem Kumar
Published: October 2024

Understanding the relationship between tillage and nutrient management strategies is crucial for maintaining the long-term sustainability of the rice-wheat cropping system (RWCS). Therefore, a field experiment was conducted from 2022 to 2024 at Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University in Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar to study the effect of nutrient management strategies under conservation agriculture (CA) for enhancing crop growth performance, protein content and productivity of RWCS. The experiment was conducted in a split-plot design replicated thrice with 3 different tillage and crop establishment methods [zero tillage direct seeded rice (ZTDSR)-zero tillage wheat (ZTW), puddled DSR (PDSR)-ZT with rice residue retention (ZT + RR) and puddled transplanted rice (PTR)-conventional tillage wheat (CTW)] in main plots and four nutrient management strategies [Farmer’s Fertilizer Practices (FFP), Nutrient Expert recommended dose of fertilizer (NE-RDF), RDF + spray of nanourea (NU) and Customized fertilizer (CF)] in sub plots. In both years, crop growth attributes at harvest in rice were found maximum under PDSR while in wheat it was under ZT + RR. In wheat, ZT + RR recorded maximum grain yield which was 13 % and 14.5 % higher than CTW in 2022-23 and 2023-24 respectively. A decline in rice grain yield of 8.3 % and 8.9 % was recorded under FFP over NE-RDF in 2022 and 2023 respectively. Hence, PDSR followed by ZT+RR coupled with NE-RDF can increase agronomic performance and productivity under RWCS.
Silicon rich nitride: a platform for controllable structural colors
Authors: Goldberg Oren , Mazurski Noa , Levy Uriel
Published: October 2024

High refractive index dielectric materials like silicon rich nitride (SRN) are critical for constructing advanced dielectric metasurfaces but are limited by transparency and complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) process compatibility. SRN’s refractive index can be adjusted by varying the silicon to nitride ratio, although this increases absorption, particularly in the blue spectrum. Dielectric metasurfaces, which utilize the material’s high dielectric constant and nano-resonator geometry, experience loss amplification due to resonance, affecting light reflection, light transmission, and quality factor. This study explores the impact of varying the silicon ratio on structural color applications in metasurfaces, using metrics such as gamut coverage, saturation, and reflection amplitude. We found that a higher SRN ratio enhances these metrics, making it ideal for producing vivid structural colors. Our results show that SRN can produce a color spectrum covering up to 166 % of the sRGB space and a resolution of 38,000 dots per inch. Fabricated samples vividly displayed a parrot, a flower, and a rainbow, illustrating SRN’s potential for high-resolution applications. We also show that SRN can provide a better CIE diagram coverage than other popular metasurfaces materials. These findings highlight the advantages of SRN for photonic devices, suggesting pathways for further material and application development.
Religion and Climate Geopolitics
Authors: Berry Evan
Published: October 2024

Climate politics is old: a stress test of international institutions and political systems now in its fourth decade. Climate politics is also new: nascent transnational movements, world changing technologies, and emergent authoritarianisms indicate a rapidly shifting geopolitical order. As the moral urgency of environmental crises intensify, attention to religion provides an informative window onto the dynamics of global environmental politics. This article describes three ways in which religions are both shaping and being shaped by anthropogenic climate change.
Engendering a Future for the Catholic Church
Authors: Mayblin Maya
Published: October 2024

The future of women in the Catholic Church, and indeed of the Church itself, is a point of heated contention. This article explores how the climate emergency is causing Catholics not only to reposition the human subject in relation to the natural world, but to re-evaluate and redefine the nature of the actors within it. Within this emerging sphere of Catholic environmentalism, institutional priorities have been slowly reconfigured, allowing arguments for greater liturgical inclusivity to resurface in novel ways. This process has been particularly pronounced in the Church of Latin America, where questions of sex and gender have become more polarized than ever.
Pilgrimage in a Globalizing World
Authors: Coleman Simon
Published: October 2024

Whether on the Camino de Santiago or the Hajj, today’s pilgrims tread ancient routes of religious ritual, but their experiences are mediated by modern infrastructures and mentalities.
Rainfall Duration’s Impact on Mining Earthmoving Equipment Performance – Case Study at PT. BUMA GEO-AJE, South Kalimantan
Authors: Nandang Lukmanul Basar  , Hartono  , Siti Muawanah Robial
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the impact of rainfall duration on the performance of earthmoving equipment at PT BUMA, GEO-AJE, South Kalimantan. Data from April 2023 covering 29 days were analyzed using SPSS 22 and Origin 2024. The study revealed a 7.06637% decrease in excavator and dump truck efficiency per hour of rainfall. Cycle times were increased by 0.15122 minutes for excavators and 4.50034 minutes for dump trucks per hour of rain. Moreover, excavator productivity declined by 1138.82900 bcm/day and dump truck productivity by 176.21836 bcm/day. These results highlight the necessity of accounting for rainfall in mining operations, especially in productivity forecasts and equipment management.
Cuestiones críticas y perspectivas futuras del third-party litigation funding
Authors: Gozzuti Chiara
Published: October 2024

Aunque se trate de un fenómeno antiquísimo, el third-party litigation funding ha empezado solo recientemente a adquirir un papel relevante en la Unión europea. Las instituciones se han dado cuenta de sus implicaciones y han introducido una disciplina ad hoc en la directiva 2020/1828, en el ámbito de una reforma más amplia sobre acciones de representación. Tres son los objetivos de este trabajo: analizar la directiva y especialmente su art. 10 sobre financiación de las acciones de representación resarcitorias; observar, desde una perspectiva comparada, como los ordenamientos de España e Italia han abordado la transposición de la disciplina, a pesar de sus cuestiones críticas; por último, reflexionar sobre las perspectivas futuras de la materia, teniendo en cuenta las últimas iniciativas del legislador europeo.
Interlocking rhythmic composition style of Borneo Ketebong-The Gendang Pampat
Authors: Sinin Aaliyawani E. , Hamdan Sinin , Said Khairul A. Mohamad , Duin Ezra A. M. , Musib Ahmad F.
Published: October 2024

This work was conducted using the PicoScope signal extraction and Adobe Audition procedure, which revealed significant insights regarding the Iban traditional drum called ketebong. Three ketebong of different lengths, i.e., long, medium, and short sizes were studied. The amplitude of the long ketebong signal remains constant, showing that it had sustained its timbre for a longer duration compared to medium and short ketebong. Considering the diameter, all ketebong are almost similar, all the ketebong yield fundamental frequency at 50.15 Hz (i.e., G1# ~51.9 Hz). Although all ketebong showed similar fundamental frequency, Adobe Audition showed that the long ketebong has a brighter sound than the medium ketebong followed by the short ketebong. The purpose of this study is to derive the musical qualities of Gendang Pampat (GP), with a particular emphasis on the ketebong performance technique. The goal is to produce a rhythmic composition that integrates and reinforces a connected, expressive, rhythmic musical arrangement. The study aims to establish a framework by investigating the interlocking of rhythmic of GP to generate musical interpretation for composing a new repertoire for GP performance.
Time-varying deterioration of bamboo mechanical properties
Authors: Qiu Zhigang
Published: October 2024

Bamboo is a type of fast-growing and renewable natural resource that is an ideal building material. In this study, the longitudinal tensile, longitudinal compressive, flexural, longitudinal shear, transverse tensile, and transverse compressive stress-strain and strength properties of bamboo with a period of 240 days were conducted to study the time-varying deterioration performance of bamboo. The results showed that the mechanical properties of bamboo decreased gradually with the passage of time. The transverse compressive strength deteriorated the most, and the longitudinal tensile strength deteriorated the least. After 240 days of tests, bamboo CCS decreased by 52.5% and UTS decreased by 25.4%. Formulas to predict deterioration of mechanical properties were put forward and validated. It was found that the nodes of bamboo influenced its mechanical properties. The deterioration degree of the test specimens with nodes was slightly higher than that of the test specimens without nodes. These findings provide evidence about the deterioration mechanism of bamboo and are significant for promoting the development of bamboo architecture.
Light tolerance-related tree growth strategies and their impacts on key functional tree traits: A review
Authors: Nkene Mezui Estelle , Brancheriau Loic , Ikogou Samuel , Moutou Pitti Rostand
Published: October 2024

Light is essential for tree growth and development, yet some species are able, or prefer, to tolerate shady conditions without adversely affecting their development. This ecological preference prompts different strategies in these species, often involving a trade-off between performance and safety in terms of mechanical support, conductivity, and pest and disease protection. Studies on the ecological strategies of trees and their associated functional traits are essential to gain further insight into biodiversity and the processes that shape wood quality from the standpoint of technological properties useful to humans. This literature review showcases current links between ecological preferences and the main functional traits of tree species, with particular emphasis on wood properties.
Late Byzantine spiritual guidance in the letters of the metropolitan of Chalcedon to the nun Eulogia
Authors: Matveeva Alevtina
Published: October 2024

In Late Byzantium, spiritual correspondence served as a form of spiritual guidance. One form of imparting guidance was through correspondence between a spiritual father and a spiritual child. The 14 unpublished letters from the Metropolitan of Chalcedon to his spiritual daughter, nun Eulogia, found in the codex Paris, BnF, gr. 1372, ff. 155–170v, constitute the extant segment of spiritual correspondence during the Late Byzantine period. Selected by Eulogia herself and transcribed at her request, these letters evolved into a section of a collection of ascetic treatises designed for a monastic audience. The main theme of these little-studied letters is the exploration of Eulogia’s soul and her experience of monastic life. The Metropolitan serves as a vigilant supervisor meticulously noting even the subtlest emotional fluctuations of his correspondent. Within the epistolary narrative, the metropolitan performs a number of functions: therapeutic as a doctor, educational as a counsellor, prayerful as an intercessor before God, and reconciliatory as a mediator between God and Eulogia. The mentioned aspects are characteristic features in the depiction of a spiritual father in the Eastern Christian tradition. The article illustrates how employing these guiding models the spiritual father endeavors to regulate the emotional and physical experiences of his spiritual daughter. The hierarch emphasizes the necessity of struggle with depressive despair through daily confession before God and discourages the adoption of elevated hesychast practices. Furthermore, the hierarch revises the monastic rules of life advising Eulogia who is grappling with a physical ailment to exercise moderation in the number of prayers and genuflections, while also emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy balance in terms of food and sleep. Thus, the spiritual father serves as a regulator of ascetic practices demonstrating his desire to personalize Eulogia’s relationship with the sacred and to shape the most suitable path for her to experience monastic spiritual life. The spiritual letters themselves serve as instruments of influence as their function extends beyond communication and maintaining social connections. These spiritual messages are meant to be reread and comprehended during which the spiritual child was again and again immersed in the discourse of instructions.
Professor G. I. Fischer von Waldheim and museum activities at Moscow University
Authors: Andreev Andrei , Kolotilova Natalya
Published: October 2024

Professor G.I. Fischer von Waldheim played an important role not only in the history of Moscow University, but also of Russian science in general. Having adopted a number of concepts in the first period of his life that gave new impetus to the development of natural sciences in Europe, he then became the founder of large university scientific schools and areas of research in Russia. But his contribution to the development of museums was especially significant, the study of which served as the subject of this article. While still in Paris, having familiarized himself with and researched the methods of displaying various natural science collections, he then began to create the Moscow University Museum - the first public museum not only in the history of Russian universities, but for Moscow as a whole. The article explores the main concepts that guided the professor for placing the exposition. It is also emphasized that in the development of scientific museums, Fischer saw great potential for further educational activities, as well as for the use of collections in the educational process. These concepts logically led him to put forward in 1832 a plan for a National Museum based on the collections of Moscow University, which would be designed to demonstrate all the natural wealth and resources that Russia possesses. This concept, although not realized, influenced subsequent museum activities in Moscow. The historical memory of Fischer von Waldheim is currently maintained within the museums of Moscow University.
Assistance to prisoners of war from regional branches of the Russian society of the Red Cross in august 1914 — october 1917 (with the city of Krasnoyarsk of Yenisey guberniya as an example)
Authors: Dolidovich Olesya
Published: October 2024

The article is devoted to such an area of activity of the regional branches of the Russian Society of the Red Cross during the First World War as providing assistance to Russian prisoners of war. Materials from the city of Krasnoyarsk, Yenisei province, show that this work was primarily carried out by women’s committees. The scale of assistance did not correspond to the real needs of prisoners, and was reduced throughout the war due to unfavorable changes in the economy. The capabilities of the regional branches of the society were further reduced after February 1917 due to a shortage of material resources.Historical experience shows that public initiative is not enough to protect fellow prisoners of war. An active role of the state is needed, implementing measures in various fields, including diplomatic and economic, in order to improve the material and living conditions, food supplies, and medical care for prisoners of war. Without such government intervention, prisoners in enemy countries are an extremely vulnerable group of people, subject to violence and arbitrariness.
New types of diocesan theological educational institutions in the Russian empire at the beginning of the 20th century
Authors: Smolaykova Inna
Published: October 2024

The article is devoted to the topic of additional diocesan educational institutions in the system of spiritual educational institutions of the Russian Empire. The crisis of spiritual education, which appeared at the turn of the XIX–XX centuries, intensified by the revolutionary events of 1905-1907, caused a heated debate in the public and church environment about the upcoming reform. The paper examines the causes and patterns of the emergence of new schools and courses at the local level, which preceded the legislative formalization of innovations, their integration into the existing state system of spiritual education. A special place in the article is given to trends in women's spiritual education: the creation of local theological schools alternative to diocesan women's schools, which preceded the reorganization of educational institutions for girls under the management of the Synod of the Russian Orthodox Church. The article attempts to study the emergence of local diocesan educational institutions not only as separate events in the life of the dioceses of the Russian Orthodox Church. The article attempts to study the emergence of local di-ocesan educational institutions not only as separate events in the life of the dioceses of the Russian Orthodox Church. A generalized view of new educational institutions in the context of social and social phenomena makes it possible to see the relationship of additional schools with the transformations of the theological school after 1917.
Russian Church Abroad and the beginning of the “Free Church” (1990–1995)
Authors: Kostryukov Andrey
Published: October 2024

The article is devoted to the history of the creation of a non–canonical structure by the Russian Church Abroad - the so-called "Russian Orthodox Free Church" (ROSC). The article explores the reasons why the ROCOR in 1990, instead of reconciliation with the Moscow Patriarchate, went to confrontation, creating dioceses on its canonical territory. The reasons why the Russian Orthodox Church did not become popular in the Orthodox environment and was marginalized at the very beginning of the 1990s are also being investigated. The reasons for the conflict between this structure and the ROCOR leadership are also considered. Based on documents and materials, as well as the periodicals of the ROCOR and the Russian Orthodox Church, it is concluded that the reason for the failure of the "Free Church" was, first of all, the misunderstanding of the leadership of the Church Abroad of Russian realities, groundless confidence that the Russian population will massively move to a new structure. Among other reasons is the impoverishment of the spiritual and intellectual forces of the ROCOR, confident in the success of the new project. The result was an unsuccessful personnel policy, the admission of far from the best representatives of the clergy to the Russian Orthodox Church. In parallel with the problems that began, representatives of the Russian Church Abroad began to understand that its "return" to its homeland should take place not through the creation of a non-canonical parallel "Church", but through dialogue.