bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization model the pipe diameter in the drinking water distribution network using multi-objective genetic algorithm
Authors: Sulianto  , Setiono Ernawan , Yasa I Wayan
Published: November 2023

Under conditions of gravity flow, the performance of a distribution pipe network for drinking water supply can be measured by investment cost and the difference in real and target pressures at each node to ensure fairness of the service. Therefore, the objective function for the optimization in the design of a complex gravity flow pipe network is a multi-purpose equation system set up to minimize the above-mentioned two parameters. This article presents a new model as an alternative solution to solving the optimization equation system by combining the Newton–Raphson and genetic algorithm (GA) methods into a single unit so that the resulting model can work effectively. The Newton–Raphson method is used to solve the hydraulic equation system in pipelines and the GA is used to find the optimal pipe diameter combination in a net-work. Among application models in a complex pipe network consisting of 12 elements and 10 nodes, this model is able to show satisfactory performance. Considering variations in the value of the weighting factor in the objective function, opti-mal conditions can be achieved at the investment cost factor (ω1) = 0.75 and the relative energy equalization factor at the service node (ω2) = 0.25. With relevant GA input parameters, optimal conditions are achieved at the best fitness value of 1.016 which is equivalent to the investment cost of USD 56.67 thous. with an average relative energy deviation of 1.925 m.
The analysis of chemical parameters of groundwater before and after sand filtration in the Velekinca water treatment plant, Kosovo
Authors: Beluli Valdrin M.
Published: November 2023

Our scientific research is based on the monitoring of ions before and after filtration of groundwaters in the water plant of Velekinca in the municipality of Gjilan, Kosovo. Sandy filters are the most commonly used industrial filters in surface – and groundwater industries. The reason is their low construction cost and high processing capacity. In our scientific re-search, sand filters used in the plant do not have perfect filtration, so we can monitor results before filtration (BF) and after filtration (AF) by determining the concentration of some ions and molecules. The following average concentrations have described: Ca2+ (BF: 83.42, AF: 83.19) mg·dm–3, Mg2+ (BF: 35.59, AF: 34.35) mg·dm–3, Cl– (BF: 28.018, AF: 28.73) mg·dm–3, SO42– (BF: 42.76, AF: 44.46) mg·dm–3, HCO3– (BF: 410.9, AF: 404.81) mg·dm–3, A-HCl (BF: 6.73, AF: 6.63) ml-HCl, GH (BF: 19.94, AF: 19.62) °dH, CS (BF: 18.87, AF: 18.5) °dH and NO2– (BF: 0.0033, AF: 0.0022) mg·dm–3. Be-ing scientific researchers in the field of water treatment technology, we have concluded that ions create an affinity for sand particles. They attach to each other by creating an ion-sand particle physical chain. According to our scientific research, sand filters are difficult to guarantee a high quality of water processing.
Spatial differentiation of regulatory monetary valuation of agricultural land in conditions of widespread irrigation of steppe soils
Authors: Pichura Vitalii , Potravka Larisa , Dudiak Nataliia , Stroganov Alexander , Dyudyaeva Olha
Published: November 2023

The article presents results of quality class determination and regulatory and monetary valuation of agricultural land in the steppe soils irrigation zone using the Karmanov’s methodology of soil and climatic quality class determination and au-thor's methodology of ecological, agro-ameliorative and climatic soils quality class determination. Based on the results of spatial modeling, a series of maps was created and characteristics of ecological, agro-ameliorative and relief and climatic components of soils quality class were presented based on the example of the Kherson Region, Ukraine. According to the results soil and climatic quality class determination, it is established that the value of the class varies from 25 to 46 points; the regulatory and monetary value of agricultural land varies from USD 490 per 1 ha for dark chestnut and chestnut al-kaline soils up to USD1,360 per ha for ordinary chernozem. According to the results of ecological, agro-ameliorative and climatic soils quality class determination, it is established that the value of the class varies from 6 to 59 points; the regulato-ry and monetary value of agricultural land varies from USD145 per 1 ha for degraded and highly saline chestnut soils up to USD2,060 per ha for irrigated southern chernozem. The suggested methodology of soil quality class calculation can have multiple purposes. It is intended to be used for different physiographic conditions of land use to develop adaptive soils pro-tection measures at different territorial levels of agricultural production management with the overall objective of ensuring sustainable land use.
Phosphoric regime of light chestnut soil and sugar beet yield with long-term use of phosphorous fertilizers
Authors: Alimbekova Balnur , Yeleshev Rakhimzhan , Bakenova Zhenisgul , Shibikeyeva Aigerim , Balkozha Marzhan
Published: November 2023

This study presents the results of research on the effect of long-term use of phosphorus fertilizers on permanent sugar beet crops for more than 50 years and on the transformation of phosphate forms on light chestnut soil and its yield. Our work aims to establish the main factors of quantitative and qualitative changes in various phosphates in light chestnut soil. Despite the large amount of practical material, the influence duration of phosphorus fertilizer application has not been sufficiently studied on the irrigated soils of Kazakhstan. It should be noted that the current study was carried out in long-term stationary experimental sites for the production of sugar beet with permanent sowing. The introduction of phosphate fertilizers primarily on the permanent crops of sugar beets in the same norms contributes to a more significant increase in gross phosphorus reserves. The soil content of gross phosphorus for 58 years on the control and nitrogen-potassium variants show practically no changes. Furthermore, when phosphorus fertilizers are applied on the variant with the annual application of a single norm of phosphorus and its amount for 58 years (4400 kg∙ha–1 of application doses) its content increased by 2660 mg∙kg–1, and with the introduction of its one and a half norms (6600 kg of application doses) by 2860 mg∙kg–1 of soil.
The mechanism of phosphate bacteria in increasing the solubility of phosphorus in Indonesian Andisols
Authors: Tamad  , Maas Azwar , Hanudin Eko , Widada Jaka
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this research was to determine: 1) phosphate bacteria (PB) mechanisms responsible for enhancing the soil’s soluble phosphorus (P), using the processes of inorganic P solubilisation, organic P mineralization, and blocking of soil colloidal adsorption site, and 2) to investigate the factors contributing to this increase. Phosphate bacteria (PB) was inoculated into sterile Andisols in three separate compositions, termed 1 kg P∙kg–1 (2.82 g phosphate rock, 0.5 g Ca3(PO4)2, 0.4 g Al3(PO4)2, or 0.4 g Fe3(PO4)2), organic P (0.5 cm3 para-Nitrophenylphosphate (pNPP) or 0.5 g Na-phytate), and 1 kg P (KH2PO4)∙kg–1, in order to analyse inorganic P solubilisation, organic P mineraliza-tion, and evaluate blocking soil colloidal site for adsorption P, respectively. Furthermore, spectrophotometry technique was applied to determine the amount of dissolved P. The PB showed an improvement in inorganic P solubilisation from 147.66 to 194.61 mg P∙kg–1, and also in organic P from 63.6 to 91.7 mg P∙kg–1, compared to control, (31.06 mg P∙kg–1) and (23.7 mg P∙kg–1), respectively. Meanwhile, the micro-organisms were known to decrease P adsorption by 13.43%, beyond the restraint set at 85.34%. Therefore, increased soluble P in Andisols is possibly expressed, using the equation as follows: soluble P (mg P∙kg–1) = 1201.96 + 1.18 inorganic P solubilisation (mg P∙kg–1) + 1.09 organic P mineralization (mg P∙kg–1) – 0.92 adsorption P (mg P∙kg–1) (R2 = 0.99).
The problems of spatial planning and natural determinants of urban development – the Case of Powiśle in Warsaw
Authors: Koszewska Joanna , Kuzak Łukasz
Published: November 2023

This research examines the relationship between urban planning and environmental conditions. As urb-anisation processes increase the density of the built-up tissue of cities, this process puts a lot of pressure on land and natural resources such as rivers and soil. This article aims to verify whether environmental risks (e.g. flooding) and land protection from them is sufficiently addressed in the examined spatial policies and strategies. This problem can be observed in the Powiśle district of Warsaw where buildings are constructed in the proximity of the unregulated Vistula River and that is why there is the direct risk of flooding. It is done despite the lack of legally binding Master plans which would consider the natural risk. The literature research on the Municipality-led spatial planning policies and documents was completed with qualitative interviews with key actors in this process (planners: the authors of Master plans under construction, regarding the area of Powiśle South and North). Main designers and team members were asked about the priorities of these plans as well as their dynamics (taking more than ten years to establish those plans). An environmental analysis was conducted in the GIS mapping system of many databases. The comparison of both aspects of current development, formal urban planning and environmental protection was made in an interdisciplinary approach. The study presents an analysis of the situation for urban planning along with flood maps and other environmental conditions. The results show the lack of necessary alignment of environmental issues with the planning documentation and strategies.
Analyzing the decadal transformation of the LULC from tillage to a townified area in the Lower Himalayan Region, Pakistan
Authors: Anwar Zartashia , Alam Arif , Elahi Noor
Published: November 2023

Land use land cover change (LULC) has become part of the global science agenda and the understanding of LULC change is vital for planning sustainable management of natural resources. The study has employed multi- temporal satellite imagery to examine the LULC change in the Abbottabad District from 1989 to 2019. Images from Landsat-5, Landsat-7, and Landsat-8 Thematic Mapper (TM) for the same season were acquired from the USGS for the years of 1989, 1999, 2009 and 2019. The images were pre-processed by atmospheric correction, extraction of the study area and band composite. The supervised image classification using Maximum Likelihood Classifier and accuracy assessment were applied to prepare LULC maps of the Abbottabad District. In the last three decades, the study area witnessed number of changes in the pattern of LULC due to population growth, rapid urbanization and increased development of infrastructure, which cumulatively led to the emergence of new patterns being employed for land use. Results of the analysis involving the classified maps show that agricultural land and bare land have decreased, respectively 15.73% and 3.81%, whereas water resources have decreased significantly by 0.58%. This study reveals that GIS can be used as an informative tool to detect LULC changes. However, for planning and management, as well as to gain better insight into the human dynamics of environmental variations on the regional scale, it is crucial to have information about temporal LULC transformation patterns in the study area.
Developmental features of non-urban areas using local peat resources in a sustainable way
Authors: Semin Alexander N. , Grevtsev Nikolay V. , Antoninova Natalya Yu.
Published: November 2023

The article discusses the spatial development of non-urban areas based on the use of local peat resources. Creating a methodology for the advanced spatial development of non-urban areas has peat resources based on multi- criteria optimisation of production and social infrastructures. The industrial and social infrastructure of the non-urban areas having reserves of peat, associated mineral, and industrial raw materials. Regularities, trends, and features of formation and functioning of the productive and social infrastructure of the natural and man-made complex in the development of peat reserves, associated mineral, and industrial raw materials. To achieve this goal, it is necessary to conduct interdisciplinary research and solve the following specific objectives: (1) the scientific justification of new technological processes and equipment for peat and mineral raw materials processing for obtaining new composite materials for multiple purposes; (2) the feature analysis of the use of local peat resources to provide the development of non-urban areas based on a set of scientific approaches; (3) the development of the methodology for project management of the natural and man-made complex to ensure multi-criteria optimisation of productive and social infrastructure. The example of the Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Okrug – Yugra development selected results of confronting the existing “big grand” and national challenges through the mechanisms of rational use of local peat resources non-urban areas are illustrated. The results indicated that by 2030 there would be a 3.8-fold increase in mineral extraction and a 5.9-fold increase in processing industries.
Fuzzy system modelling to assess water quality for irrigation purposes
Authors: Hamdan Ahmed N.A. , Al Saad Zainb A.A. , Abu-Alhail Saad
Published: November 2023

This study attempts to find a fuzzy logic system for assessing the quality of water in water treatment plants (WTPs) providing water for irrigation purposes in the Basrah Governorate (South of Iraq). Each month, samples are taken in each of six major WTPs to measure electrical conductivity ( EC), and the content of sodium, magnesium and calcium. The calculated value which is the sodium adsorption ratio ( SAR) is plotted with EC on the Richard diagram. SAR and EC values are combined together in a fuzzy inference system (FIS) to find out a quality number called the fuzzy irrigation water quality index number ( FIWQI) which ranges from zero to one. The higher the value of the index, the better water quality. The Richard diagram, which helps to classify irrigation water, is used to adjust FIS components. Results show that the FIWQI for all WTPs changes depending on location and season. It ranges between 0.114–0.170, 0.120–0.190, 0.114–0.170, 0.114–0.202, 0.118–0.500 and 0.46–0.500 for Al-Bradhaia 1, Al-Jubaila 1, Shatt Al-Arab, Garmmah 1, Al-Rebat, and Old Shauaibah WTPs, respectively. The results indicate that WTPs effluent drawn from the Shatt Al-Arab River has poor water quality for irrigation purposes, except for an Old Shauaibah which receives water from another source called a sweet water canal. FIS results are compared with values obtained from the Richard diagram and 96% degree of compatibility between the two methods is attained. This indicates that FIS is an acceptable method for water quality classification.
Combined treatment technology for storm runoff and circulating waters from vehicle transport enterprises
Authors: Kvartenko Oleksandr , Lysytsya Andriy , Kovalchuk Nataliya , Prysiazhniuk Ihor , Pletuk Oksana
Published: November 2023

The development of transport infrastructure strengthens the technogenic burden on the environment. Waste, thaw and rain waters from vehicle transport enterprises, such as car-washing installations, petrol stations, and car service stations may pollute ground and surface waters, and adjacent landscapes. The article presents quality parameters and suggests a number of measures permitting to minimize the harmful impact on the environment. The purpose is to improve the reagent treatment technology applicable to surface runoff from vehicle transport enterprises and the reuse of circulating waters by improving well-known methods with original technological procedures and chemical reagents. Research methods include the use of potentiometry, titrometry, and gravimetry. The investigation has shown the possibility to increase the efficiency of runoff treatment and removal of suspended particles and dissolved organic matter by 20–30%. This can be achieved by the application of a permanent magnetic field of 30–40 mT and the subsequent processing by the solution of aluminum chlorohydrate. Optimum parameters have been determined regarding magnetic field and processing conditions. It has been proven that the use of aluminum chlorohydrate in combination with polyhexamethyleneguanidine hydrochloride simplifies substantially the technological cycle. A better treatment can be achieved in comparison with the usual coagulant by 25%. Heavy metal ions are removed from water and the method includes microbiological disinfection and preservation of water in storage reservoirs. The improved technological scheme suggests the reagent treatment of storm and circulating waters for their repeated use.
Bringing medicinal plants of the native flora of the northern Tien Shan into cultivation
Authors: Sitpayeva Gulnara , Yerekeyeva Svetlana , Grudzinskaya Lyudmila , Gemejieva Nadejda , Anarbekova Gulshat , Saikenov Bakytzhan
Published: November 2023

In the current study, it was tried to investigate the medicinal plants of the native flora of the Northern Tien Shan to bring them into domestication. The study was carried out on the territory of a botanical garden located at an altitude of 880 m a.s.l., in the foothill steppe zone of the Zailiysky Alatau ridge, People’s Republic of China on light chestnut loamy soils. In 2018–2019, more than 90 samples of 51 species of medicinal plants of the Northern Tien Shan flora was selected from 17 families for introduction tests. The families Compositae (10 genera, 12 species) and Lamiaceae (12 genera, 13 species) were represented by the largest numbers of genera and species. The family Leguminosae was represented by four species from four genera; the families Polygonaceae and Ranunculaceae, by three species each; the family Rosaceae, by two species; and the remaining 11 families, by one species each. The results suggested that the majority of medicinal plants of the Northern Tien Shan tested can be successfully cultivated in the foothill zone of the Zailiysky Alatau. The results indicated that when propagated by seed, the laboratory germination varied from 2 to 30%, and the mass of seeds was 0.21 g. When sown in spring, the field germination was 8%, and when sown in autumn, 42% from 50 to 70% of seedlings survived until the end of the growing season. The massive flowering was observed in the third year, and the plants vegetated until the end of the growing season.
A GIS and AHP-based approach to determine potential locations of municipal solid waste collection points in rural areas
Authors: Malinowski Mateusz , Guzdek Sylwia , Petryk Agnieszka , Tomaszek Klaudia
Published: November 2023

Municipal solid waste collection points (MSWCPs) are places where residents of municipalities can leave their waste free of charge. MSWCPs should operate in every municipality in Poland. The Geographic Information System (GIS) and analytical hierarchy process (AHP) were used in conjunction as tools to determine potential locations of MSWCPs. Due to possible social conflicts related to the location of MSWCPs, three variants of buffer zones for a residential area were adopted. As a result of the spatial analysis carried out using the GIS software, 247 potential locations were identified in variant no. 1 (which accounted for 7.1% of commune area), 167 for variant no. 2 (6.3% of commune area), and 88 for variant no. 3 (3.8% of commune area). The most favourable locations for MSWCPs were determined using the AHP method with additional criteria for which weights were calculated as follows: the area of a designated plot (0.045), actual designation of a plot in the local spatial development plan (0.397), distance from the centre of the village (0.096) and the commune (0.231), and population density of a village (0.231). The highest weights (over 50%) in the AHP analysis were obtained for 12 locations in variant no. 3, two of which had an area over 3 ha. The adopted methodology enabled to identify quasi-optimal solutions for MSWCP locations in the analysed rural commune. This research has the potential to influence future waste management policies by assisting stakeholders in the MSWCP location.
Ecotoxicological effect of heavy metals in free-living ciliate protozoa of Lake Maracaibo, Venezuela
Authors: Echavez Fernando Luis Castro , Leal Julio César Marín
Published: November 2023

Multiple anthropogenic agents have turned Lake Maracaibo into a hypereutrophic environment. Heavy metals resulting from the steel and oil industry augment pollution in the lake. There is a lack of research on the ecotoxicological effect of heavy metals in protozoa. To evaluate the ecotoxicological effect of Cr3+, Cr6+, Cd2+, Pb2+ and Ni2+ on free-living ciliated protozoa and to identify suitable ciliated protozoa candidates for bioindicators of water quality; we estimated the lethal concentration for 50% of the protozoa population (LC50) in samples from two stations (S1: narrow of Maracaibo and S2: South of the lake) using ecotoxicological tests in the Sedgewick–Rafter chamber and Probit analysis. The general toxicity patterns obtained for S1 protozoa (Euplotes sp. and Oxytricha sp.) were Cr3+ > Cd2+ > Pb2+ > Cr6+ > Ni2+; and those corresponding to S2 (Coleps sp. and Chilodonella sp.) were Cr6+ > Cr3+ > Cd2+ > Pb2+ > Ni2+. We found statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) in the LC50 of protozoa exposed to Cr3+, Cr6+, Ni2+ and Pb2+ when comparing the two sampling stations. The differences observed in toxicity patterns are probably the result of various kinds of protozoa adaptation, possibly induced by various sources, levels and incidents of exposure to heavy metals contamination of the protozoa studied and to the physicochemical conditions prevailing in the two selected stations. The levels of tolerance observed in the present study, allow us to infer that S2 ciliates are the most susceptible to the contaminants studied and can be used as possible microbiological indicators that provide early warning in studies of contamination by heavy metals in Lake Maracaibo.
A survey of farmer approach to grazing: A case study of the Curvature Subcarpathians, Romania
Authors: Neculau Gianina , Minea Gabriel , Ciobotaru Nicu , Ioana-Toroimac Gabriela , Mircea Sevastel , Mititelu-Ionuș Oana , Rodrigo-Comino Jesús
Published: November 2023

This study aims to investigate how grazing is perceived across the Curvature Subcarpathians (Romania) by farmers. We investigate farmers’ attitudes toward and understanding of grazing practice and associated processes involving small ruminants (sheep and goats). Additionally, we review the scientific literature and new discussions about grazing vs overgrazing terms and changes in the Romanian small ruminant livestock. Results of the survey on the total of 101 case studies from villages in 3 counties (Damboviţa, Buzau, and Vrancea) show that: (i) grazing is differently perceived; (ii) most of the areas designated for grazing are located near riverbanks (over 55%); most of the respondents reported that the areas intended for grazing are quite close to the inhabited areas; distances are less than 2.5 km; and over 60% of respondents believe that the areas are continuously subject to soil degradation processes; (iii) answers given in connection with the issues addressed provide both relevance to the Curvature Subcarpathians (6792 km2) and the potential impact of higher pressure of grazing on local areas due to the discouragement of specific transhumance policies (more than 60% required subsidies). The average stocking density is about 4.7 head per ha. In general, beyond different farmers’ perceptions, a scientific question remains open regarding the quantitative impact of grazing on hydrological processes. Hence, a field survey (e.g., rainfall-runoff experiments) to assess grazing pressure on water and soil resources will be performed.
Development of pedotransfer functions for predicting soil bulk density: A case study in Indonesian small island
Authors: Yanti Evi Dwi , Mulyono Asep , Djuwansah Muhamad Rahman , Narulita Ida , Putra Risandi Dwirama , Surinati Dewi
Published: November 2023

Unlike many other countries, tropical regions such as Indonesia still lack publications on pedotransfer functions (PTFs), particularly ones dedicated to the predicting of soil bulk density. Soil bulk density affects soil density, porosity, water holding capacity, drainage, and the stock and flux of nutrients in the soil. However, obtaining access to a laboratory is difficult, time-consuming, and costly. Therefore, it is necessary to utilise PTFs to estimate soil bulk density. This study aims to define soil properties related to soil bulk density, develop new PTFs using multiple linear regression (MLR), and evaluate the performance and accuracy of PTFs (new and existing). Seven existing PTFs were applied in this study. For the purposes of evaluation, Pearson’s correlation (r), mean error (ME), root mean square error (RMSE), and modelling efficiency (EF) were used. The study was conducted in five soil types on Bintan Island, Indonesia. Soil depth and organic carbon (SOC) are soil properties potentially relevant for soil bulk density prediction. The ME, RMSE, and EF values were lower for the newly developed PTFs than for existing PTFs. In summary, we concluded that the newly developed PTFs have higher accuracy than existing PTFs derived from literature. The prediction of soil bulk density will be more accurate if PTFs are applied directly in the area that is to be studied.
Impact of the projected climate change on soybean water needs in the Kuyavia region in Poland
Authors: Kasperska-Wołowicz Wiesława , Rolbiecki Stanisław , Sadan Hicran A. , Rolbiecki Roman , Jagosz Barbara , Stachowski Piotr , Liberacki Daniel , Bolewski Tymoteusz , Prus Piotr , Pal-Fam Ferenc
Published: November 2023

According to the SRES A1B climate change scenario, by the end of the 21st century temperature in Poland will increase by 2–4°C, no increase in precipitation totals is predicted. This will rise crop irrigation needs and necessity to develop irrigation systems. Due to increase in temperature and needs of sustainable agriculture development some changes in crop growing structure will occur. An increase interest in high protein crops cultivation has been noted last years and further extension of these acreage is foreseen. Identifying the future water needs of these plants is crucial for planning and implementing sustainable agricultural production. In the study, the impact of projected air temperature changes on soybean water needs, one of the most valuable high-protein crops, in 2021–2050 in the Kuyavia region in Poland was analysed. The calculations based on meteorological data collected in 1981–2010 were considered as the reference period. Potential evapotranspiration was adopted as a measure of crop water requirements. The potential evapotranspiration was estimated using the Penman–Monteith method and crop coefficient. Based on these estimations, it was found that in the forecast years the soybean water needs will increase by 5% in the growing period (from 21 April to 10 September), and by 8% in June–August. The highest monthly soybean water needs increase (by 15%) may occur in August. The predicted climate changes and the increase in the arable crops water requirements, may contribute to an increase in the irrigated area in the Kuyavia region and necessity of rational management of water resources.
Modelling of long term low water level in the mountain river catchments area
Authors: Kopacz Marek T. , Kowalewski Zbigniew , Santos Luis , Mazur Robert , Lopes Vasco , Kowalczyk Agnieszka , Bar-Michalczyk Dominika
Published: November 2023

Changing atmospheric conditions, including above all the deepening extreme weather phenomena, are increasing from year to year. This, in consequence, causes an increase in the incidence of low outflows. The study compares low water levels for two catchments: Biała Woda and Czarna Woda, and phosphorus and nitrogen load using the Nutrient Delivery Ratio (NDR) model in InVEST software. The objective of the NDR is to map nutrient sources from catchment area and transfer to the river bed. The nutrient loads (nitrogen and phosphorus) spread across the landscape are determined based on a land use (LULC) map and associated loading rates described in literature. The studies have shown that low water levels have been more common recently and pose the greatest threat to the biological life in the aquatic ecosystems. The structure of land use is also of great importance, with a significant impact on the runoff and nitrogen and phosphorus load. Phosphorus and runoff from surface sources to the water of Biała Woda and Czarna Woda catchments area has been reduced in forested areas. Only higher run-offs are observed in the residential buildings zone. The nitrogen load was also greater in the lower (estuary) parts of both catchments, where residential buildings dominate.
Diachronic mapping and evaluation of soil erosion rates using RUSLE in the Bouregreg River Watershed, Morocco
Authors: Moudden Fouad , El Hafyani Mohammed , El Ouali Anas , Roubil Allal , El Ouali Abdelhadi , Essahlaoui Ali , Brouziyne Youssef
Published: November 2023

Soil erosion has been severely affecting soil and water resources in semi-arid areas like the Mediterranean. In Morocco, this natural process is accelerated by anthropogenic activities, such as unsustainable soil management, overgrazing, and deforestation. With a drainage area of 395,600 ha, the Bouregreg River Watershed extends from the Middle Atlas Range (Jebel Mtourzgane) to the Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah (SMBA) dam reservoir south-east of Rabat. Its contrasted eco-geomorphological landscapes make it susceptible to unprecedented soil erosion due to climate change. Resulting changes in erosive dynamics led to huge amounts of solid loads transported to the catchment outlet and, thus, jeopardised the SMBA dam lifespan due to siltation. The research aims to quantify the average annual soil losses in this watershed using the Revised Universal Equation of Soil Losses (RUSLE) within a GIS environment. To highlight shifts in land use/land cover patterns and their effects on erosional severity, we have resorted to remote sensing through two Landsat 8 satellite images captured in 2004 and 2019. The C factor was combined with readily available local data regarding major erosion factors, e.g. rainfall aggressiveness ( R), soil erodibility ( K), topography ( LS), and conservation practices ( P). The helped to map the erosion hazard and determine erosion prone areas within the watershed where appropriate water and conservation measures are to be considered. Accordingly, from 2004 to 2019, average annual soil losses increased from 11.78 to 18.38 t∙ha –1∙y –1, as the watershed area affected by strong erosion (>30 t∙ha –1∙y –1) evolved from 13.57 to 39.39%.
The SARIMA model-based monthly rainfall forecasting for the Turksvygbult Station at the Magoebaskloof Dam in South Africa
Authors: Tadesse Kassahun Birhanu , Dinka Megersa Olumana
Published: November 2023

Rainfall forecast information is important for the planning and management of water resources and agricultural activities. Turksvygbult rainfall near the Magoebaskloof Dam (South Africa) has never been modelled and forecasted. Hence, the objective of this study was to forecast its monthly rainfall using the SARIMA model. GReTL and automatic XLSTAT software were used for forecasting. The trend of the long-term rainfall time series (TS) was tested by Mann–Kendall and its stationarity was proved by various unit root tests. The TS data from Oct 1976 to Sept 2015 were used for model training and the remaining data (Oct 2015 to Sept 2018) for validation. Then, all TS (Oct 1976 to Sept 2018) were used for out of sample forecasting. Several SARIMA models were identified using correlograms that were derived from seasonally differentiated TS. Model parameters were derived by the maximum likelihood method. Residual correlogram and Ljung–Box Q tests were used to check the forecast accuracy. Based on minimum Akaike information criteria (AI) value of 5642.69, SARIMA (2, 0, 3) (3, 1, 3) 12 model was developed using GReTL as the best of all models. SARIMA (1, 0, 1) (3, 1, 3) 12, with minimum AI value of 5647.79, was the second-best model among GReTl models. This second model was also the first best automatically selected model by XLSTAT. In conclusion, these two best models can be used by managers for rainfall forecasting and management of water resources and agriculture, and thereby it can contribute to economic growth in the study area. Hence, the developed SARIMA forecasting procedure can be used for forecasting of rainfall and other time series in different areas.
The elimination of lead(II) ions in a solution by bio-adsorption: Kinetics, equilibrium, and thermodynamics
Authors: Tejada-Tovar Candelaria , Bonilla-Mancilla Humberto , Ortega Toro Rodrigo , Villabona-Ortíz Ángel , Díaz-Illanes Manuel
Published: November 2023

In the present study, the removal capacity of Pb(II) ions was investigated using the biomass of dried cattle manure in an aqueous solution. The biomaterials were characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) techniques. The results reveal that the adsorption mechanism may be associated with the interaction between Pb(II) ions and functional groups through aggregation, coordination, ion exchange, microprecipitation, oxidation, and hydrophobicity. The bio-adsorption of the metal was analysed in discontinuous tests; the effect of temperature, pH, agitation, and adsorbent dose was evaluated. The maximum adsorption capacity was determined at pH 7.5, 18°C and 200 rpm. The bio-adsorption of Pb(II) was best fitted to the pseudo-second order model. The experimental data of the isotherm were adjusted to the models of Langmuir, Freundlich and Dubinin–Radushkevich; while Langmuir’s model related better to the experimental data forming a single layer at saturation. The rate of adsorption was rapid, reaching equilibrium after 25 min and removal of 96.8%. Thermodynamic parameters determined that the process was viable, spontaneous, and exothermic. The present study contributes mainly to demonstrating that a biomaterial prepared from bovine manure is a promising adsorbent for heavy metals such as Pb(II). It also reduces the environmental impact of this waste through the generation of greenhouse gases in countries that maintain intensive livestock. Another important aspect is the reduction of the micro- and macronutrients accumulation in soil and contamination of surface waters and aquifers by runoff and seepage during rainy periods.
The modern paradigm of the agricultural technological process efficiency: A review
Authors: Tyupakov Konstantin E. , Dikinov Andzor K. , Ortskhanova Maryam A. , Musayeva Kheda M. , Bolotina Evgeniya A.
Published: November 2023

At present, a deep transformation of the agrobiocenose organisation under the intense anthropogenic factors’ influence is of particular importance. Thus, a significant increase in the number and harmfulness of pests’, phytopathogens’ and weeds species was noted due to the prevailing favourable conditions for their mass reproduction, expansion of habitats, and harmfulness, which inevitably leads to a significant deterioration in the phytosanitary state of cultivated crops. The phytosanitary trouble of agrobiocenoses allows us to say that today plant protection, being the final link in the cultivating technology for agricultural crops, is one of the most important stages in preserving the harvest improving the quality of the products obtained, and reducing their cost. In the current study it was tried to review the modern paradigm of the agricultural technological process efficiency. The relevance of this research is due to the fact that modern technological processes in agriculture cannot be implemented without the practical use of plant protection measures, in particular, the chemical method, which consists in the use of chemical compounds against pathogens of plants, pests, weeds, and is the most common, contributing to a significant increase in the yield of cultivated crops and labour productivity in agricultural production. All this, in our opinion, indicates the high practical significance of the results obtained.
The use of the phytomonitoring method to control the irrigation of tomato plantations: A case study
Authors: Shatkovskyi Andrii , Zhuravlov Olexandr , Vasiuta Volodymyr
Published: November 2023

The article is devoted to the current scientific and practical problems of planning irrigation with phytomonitoring methods. In particular, it focuses on the methodological approach to tomato irrigation planning. The field experiment was laid by the method of systematic placement of elementary plots in four replicates. The PM-11Z phytomonitor was used to determine changes in stem diameter, juice flow, leaf temperature, and fruit growth. On the basis of the experimental studies, parameters are defined for the start of watering with the positive, negative and zero water balance of the plant. It has been proved that when vegetative irrigation is planned with a positive plant water balance, the daily amplitude of stem contraction ( DCA) and the trend of the sap flow rate should be analysed. A fall in two consecutive morning stem diameter peaks ( MXSD) indicates a negative plant water balance, which is the starting point for watering. To assign watering with a zero water balance, it is necessary to use information from the fruit growth sensor and the juice flow rate. A decrease in their indications marks the need for the next watering.
Climate change necessitates a change in the cultivation date of caraway ( Carum carvi L.)
Authors: Ibrahim Mostafa Fathi , Ali Muhammad Moaaz , Lamlom Sobhi F. , Kalaji Hazem M. , Yousef Ahmed F.
Published: November 2023

By 2050, global crop demand is projected to rise by 60–110%. Crop yields have also been impacted by climate change in some nations, and these impacts are likely to continue. To prevent the influence of climate change on crop output, it is critical to adjust planting times in weather-related open fields to meet food security concerns. Present study was carried out at Experimental Farm of Faculty of Agriculture, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, Egypt, during two successive seasons, 2019 and 2020. It was aimed to study the effect of different sowing times (1st and 15th October, 1st and 15th November), and plant spacings (25, 20, and 15 cm) on growth, fruit yield, and oil production of caraway ( Carum carvi L.) plants. The results showed that sowing caraway plants on 15th October with plant spacing of 25 cm gave the highest dry weight (72.6 g∙plant –1), fresh weight (266.15 g∙plant –1), seed yield (37.43 g∙plant –1), and oil yield (0.659 cm3∙plant –1). The maximum umbels (50.83 number per plant) and essential oil (1.78%) were also recorded in the plants receiving same treatment. On the other hand, plants sown at 15th November with spacing of 15 cm exhibited the minimum values of recorded traits. While the highest value of plant height gave with sowing caraway plants on 15th October with plant spacing of 15 cm (135.35 cm). In conclusion, the plants sowed on October 15th with a maximum plant spacing of 25 cm had the highest values of the evaluated morphological, biochemical, and yield attributes of caraway.
Treatment of methanol-containing wastewater at gas condensate production
Authors: Ivanov Andrey , Strizhenok Alexey , Borowski Gabriel
Published: November 2023

The purpose of the study was to assess the impact of industrial wastewater on the concentration of methanol in the considered section of the Ob River basin, present proposals for the implementation of a new treatment system and analyse the implementation results. On the basis of the results of the analysis of the known methods for reducing the concentration of methanol in water, a new technological scheme for post-treatment of effluents using biological treatment with methylotrophic Methylomonas methanica Dg bacteria was proposed. The calculation of the dilution of treated wastewater using the “NDS Ecolog” program was carried out on the basis of the detailed calculation method of Karaushev, the results of which showed a decrease in the concentration of methanol in the control section to 0.0954 mg∙dm –3 (permissible concentration is 0.1 mg∙dm –3). During the period of the flood of the Glukhaya channel, it ceases to be a separate water body and, in fact, becomes part of the flood channel of the Ob River. Certain parts of the flooded areas, due to elevation changes, communicate with the channel only during a short period of time when the water level rises, i.e. 3–5 weeks during the flood period, and in fact remain isolated reservoirs for the rest of the time, potentially acting as zones of accumulation and concentration of pollutants.
Curve Flow-duration-Frequency. The flood modelling regime of the Wadi Mazafran catchment in the north of Algeria
Authors: Kourat Sofiane , Touaïbia Bénina , Yahiaoui Abdelhalim
Published: November 2023

Synthetic modelling of the flood regime is based on the overall knowledge of the hydrological regime in a catchment. The Flow-duration-Frequency (QdF) modelling is used to combine three parameters characterising flood with its mean or exceeded flow, its characteristic duration, and occurrence frequency. Which of these can be established locally at the extreme mean volume flow rates of a catchment reference hydrometric station? The determination of the reference QdF model in mean (volume) and exceeded flows requires two characteristics reflecting the flood regime in a catchment. The first is the characteristic flood duration and the second is the 10-year quantile of the annual maximum instantaneous flow. The comparison of the local situation to the reference QdF models enables to develop the final QdF model of the catchment and therefore the baseline QdF for exceeded and synthetic mono-frequency hydrographs. These are essential components in the study of flood risk mapping and the estimation of the instantaneous peak distribution from mean daily streamflow series.
Effects of global warming on insect behaviour in agriculture
Authors: Ahmed Alim Al Ayub , Zahar Marziah , Gribkova Vera , Nikolaeva Natalia , Dwijendra Ngakan Ketut Acwin , Suksatan Wanich , Atiyah Karrar Kamil , Jalil Abduladheem Turki , Aravindhan Surendar
Published: November 2023

Global warming and climate change are some of the most widely discussed topics in today's society, and they are of considerable importance to agriculture globally. Climate change directly affects agricultural production. On the other hand, the agricultural sector is inherently sensitive to climate conditions, and this has made the agricultural sector one of the most vulnerable sectors to the effects of global climate change. Rising CO2 levels in the atmosphere, increased temperature, and altering precipitation patterns all substantially influence agricultural insect pests and agricultural productivity. Climate change has a number of implications for insect pests. They can lead to a decreased biological control effectiveness, particularly natural enemies, increased incidence of insect-transmitted plant diseases, increased risk of migratory pest invasion, altered interspecific interaction, altered synchrony between plants and pests, increase in the number of generations, increased overwintering survival, and increase in geographic distribution. As a consequence, agricultural economic losses are a real possibility, as is a threat to human food and nutrition security. Global warming will necessitate sustainable management techniques to cope with the altering state of pests, as it is a primary driver of pest population dynamics. Future studies on the impacts of climate change on agricultural insect pests might be prioritized in several ways. Enhanced integrated pest control strategies, the use of modelling prediction tools, and climate and pest population monitoring are only a few examples.
Colour Terms in Tibeto-Burman Languages
Authors: Turin Mark , Chung Benjamin
Published: November 2023

In their handling of colour, Tibeto-Burman languages of the Himalayan region show multiple lexical similarities to one another as well as apparent influences from more dominant languages such as Hindi, Nepali, Tibetan, and Chinese. As an understudied family, Tibeto-Burman languages also serve as an important site to explore modern colour theory and conceptualisation. Outlier languages in the Tibeto-Burman family that do not appear to follow either traditional or revised versions of Brent Berlin & Paul Kay's theories are of particular significance. This survey provides a systematic review of the existing literature and a baseline of comparative colour terminology for these generally vulnerable and often endangered languages.
A New Idea on the Origin of πῡραμίς
Authors: Takács Gábor
Published: November 2023

The paper first gives a survey of all the etymologies proposed so far for the Greek term for „pyramid” within the Greek language and the Oriental languages. Then the elaboration of a wholly new suggestion is ventured on the basis of phonological criteria in the context of the supposed Late Egyptian source language.
On the Identification of the Mongolian “Golden” Fragments from Dzungaria
Authors: Alekseev Kirill
Published: November 2023

The article presents the results of the discovery and text-critical analysis of the Mongolian language “golden” manuscript fragments brought to Russia and Europe from Dzungaria in the 18th century. At present 34 fragments have been detected in various depositories. The fragments belong to one set of the Mongolian Kanjur most likely dated from the first half of the 17th century. The list of the texts, to which the fragments belong, is given at the end of the article. The text-critical analysis of the fragments reveals that they contain a plethora of preclassic orthography and spelling of loanwords. Three fragments contain the text of the hitherto unknown Mongolian version of the Bhadrakalpika-sūtra, which differs from Dayičing Tayiǰi’s translation included in the bulk of the Mongolian Kanjur copies.
The Asia and Pacific Museum in Warsaw Felt Collection
Authors: Godzińska Marzena
Published: November 2023

The collection of the Asia and Pacific Museum in Warsaw contains significant objects representing the culture of peoples from many regions of Asia, including Polynesia, Indonesia and even Papua New Guinea. The cultures of Turkish and Mongolian peoples of Central Asia are richly represented among them. Among the objects of these regions and cultures, a collection of felt products significantly distinguishes itself. However, these felts have never been exhibited as a whole collection, nor as a part of a monographic exhibition dedicated to the craft of felt. A significant part of them belongs to the earliest collections from the 1990’s from Afghanistan. It represents many different cultural groups: Turkmen, Kazakhs, Uzbeks, Kyrgyz people and even Tajiks. From the historian’s or art historian’s point of view, it is a very young and new collection. But, taking into account the specifics of felt production and the ways it is used, as well as the fact that felt is rather underestimated by its producers, users, traders, researchers and collectors (in terms of the art market), it should be noted that felt products were rarely bought and collected by esteemed institutions. Apart from museums of Tsarist Russia, and later, their heirs: Soviet and post-Soviet museums in Central Asian countries, along with some western European museums, collections of felt products are rather rare in the world. The felt collection of the Asia and Pacific Museum in Warsaw appears to be a rare example here. The aim of this paper is to present the felt collection of the Asia and Pacific Museum in Warsaw, in terms of its objects, as well as its ethnographic and historical value. Photographs from the Archive of the Asia and Pacific Museum in Warsaw were taken by Eugeniusz Helbert and Ewa Soszko-Dziwisińska. Photographs from the author’s archive were taken by Marzena Godzińska.