Cultural Strategies Research Articles

Impact of zinc oxide nanoparticles on biosynthesis of thymoquinone in cell cultures of Nigella sativa

The rising market interest for Nigella sativa (Black seeds) necessitates the development of cultivation strategies to enhance metabolites production. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) have drawn global attention as efficient and bio safe elicitors for in vitro cultures, to enhance secondary metabolites production in medicinal plants. In this study, ZnO-NPs were utilized for establishment of callus and cell cultures in black seeds for the first time. Hypocotyl explants were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) media with varying levels of ZnO-NPs, resulted in callus induction and biomass formation. Optimal response in callus growth parameters were observed when explants were grown on MS media supplemented with 60 mg/L ZnO-NPs, resulting in 71.2 % callus induction frequency, 28.2 g/L fresh biomass, 9.7 g/L dry biomass, and 63 % water content. A substantial increase in callus growth was observed when ZnO-NPs were combined with 6-Benzylaminopurine (BA) at ratio of 45:1.5 mg/L, resulting in 91.2 % callus induction frequency and 42.2 g/L fresh biomass. In cell suspension cultures, ZnO-NPs alone at 45 mg/L produced optimum callus biomass (60.9 g/L). However, in combination with BA, callus biomass did not increase significantly in cell cultures. Maximum accumulation of total phenolic content (TPC: 26.8 mg GAE/g DW; Gallic acid equivalent dry weight) and total flavonoid content (TFC: 19.5 mg QE/g DW; Quercetin equivalent dry weight) was observed in cell cultures treated with higher concentration (70 mg/L) of ZnO-NPs in the 5th week of the growth curve. Moreover, ZnO-NPs incremented substantially the Phenylalanine lyase (PAL), Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Peroxidase (POD) enzyme activities in cell cultures. Nonetheless, Reverse Phase High Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC) analysis indicated peak production of thymoquinone (168.5 mg/g FW) in cell cultures treated with 45 mg/L ZnO-NPs alone. This study offers a promising approach for commercial production of Nigella sativa biomass and bioactive metabolites.

Multi-year evaluation of an attract-and-kill strategy for apple maggot fly (Diptera: Tephritidae) in New England commercial apple orchards.

Previously developed behavioral approaches for controlling the apple maggot fly, Rhagoletis pomonella (Walsh) (Diptera: Tephritidae), include attract-and-kill (AK) systems such as perimeter trapping using either, odor-baited red sticky spheres or odor-baited, sticky-free attracticidal spheres with contoured tops that ensure the sustained release of both insecticide and feeding stimulant. Here, over a 3-year span in 26 commercial apple orchards across Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine, we evaluated the effectiveness of a novel AK strategy for R. pomonella management. Synthetic apple blend lures were deployed on perimeter-row trees to attract the pest, while perimeter-row insecticide sprays blended with 2% sugar, a known phagostimulant, served as the lethal component. Comparatively, grower standard (GS) blocks received full-block insecticide sprays devoid of sugar and lures. Monitoring revealed that red sticky spheres in AK blocks captured significantly more R. pomonella adults than unbaited monitoring spheres in GS blocks. Penetration of R. pomonella into block interiors remained consistently low and statistically similar for both AK and GS blocks. Whole-block infestation levels showed no significant difference between the 2 management approaches. Notably, insecticide application in AK blocks was reduced by 75%, 64.7%, and 64.2% in 2019, 2020, and 2021, respectively, compared with GS blocks. This grower-friendly AK approach could be integral to a reduced insecticide spray-based strategy for apple cultivation in the northeastern United States.

Study on the Protection and Transmission of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Dimen Village: An Analysis Based on Field Surveys and Ecomuseum Daily Records

This study explores the current state of protection and transmission of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) in Dimen Village, Liping County, Guizhou Province. Through an analysis of field surveys and records from the Dimen ecomuseum, we found that although certain cultural heritage items receive high recognition from the government, their activity levels and transmission within the village do not directly correlate with this recognition. Cultural heritage projects closely related to daily life and easy to participate in, such as embroidery, traditional handmade paper, and the Dong Grand Song, are more thriving than those that receive national policy support or have commercial demand. This paper analyzes the seasonal characteristics, gender distribution, participation numbers, and implementation spaces of 13 intangible cultural heritage skills, providing new perspectives and suggestions for future cultural heritage protection and transmission strategies.

A Study on the Cultivation of Autonomous Learning Ability in College English Teaching

This paper aims to explore the cultivation of autonomous learning ability in college English teaching. Through literature review, current situation analysis, and empirical research, the article deeply analyzes the current problems and influencing factors of cultivating autonomous learning ability in college English teaching, and proposes targeted cultivation strategies and methods. Research results show that optimizing curriculum and teaching methods, enhancing students' autonomous learning motivation and interest, and cultivating students' autonomous learning habits and abilities are important ways to effectively improve college students' English autonomous learning abilities. The research results of this paper provide a useful reference for the reform and development of college English teaching.

Discussion on the Talent Cultivation Strategy for Interior Design in Vocational Colleges from the Perspective of Industry-Education Integration

Discussion on the Talent Cultivation Strategy for Interior Design in Vocational Colleges from the Perspective of Industry-Education Integration

Responses of yield, CH4 and N2O emissions to ratoon rice cropping and different management practices

Context or problemConversion from single rice (SR) or double rice (DR) to ratoon rice (RR) is gaining growing popularity in China. Yet, a quantitative synthesis of their impact on greenhouse gas (GHG, including methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O)) emissions and grain yield has not been conducted. Objective or research questionThe objective was to evaluate the effects of conversion from SR or DR to RR on CH4 and N2O emissions, grain yield, global warming potential (GWP), and greenhouse gas intensity (GHGI) and to investigate the potential responses to different operating practices [alternate wetting-drying irrigation, nitrogen management, rice variety selection, and their multiple treatments (multiple measures)] in RR fields (oRR). MethodsIn this study, a comprehensive meta-analysis of 571-paired measurements from ratoon rice fields was conducted. ResultsOur results showed that the conversion from SR to RR significantly increased CH4 emissions, grain yield, and GWP by 35.4 %, 30.6 %, and 43.3 %, respectively. In contrast, the conversion from DR to RR decreased CH4 emissions, grain yield, and GWP by 23.2 %, 7.4 %, and 30.0 %, respectively. Interestingly, both conversions from SR or DR to RR did not affect N2O emissions but reduced GHGI in paddy fields, suggesting that RR provided an economically and ecologically sustainable rice planting model. Furthermore, on average, oRR further decreased CH4 and N2O emissions and GHGI from RR fields but did not affect grain yield. Among the existing management practices, the overall effect of multiple measures was better than that of alternate wetting-drying irrigation, nitrogen management, and rice variety selection. ConclusionsOverall, ratoon rice cropping decreased CH4 emissions and maintained rice grain yield. However, it is also necessary to further implement comprehensive cultivation strategies in the future to maximize the benefits of grain yield and GHG emissions reduction.

Polymer-Modified Fertilizers for Mitigating Strawberry Root Burn

Polymer-modified fertilizers (PMFs) with prolonged nutrient release present a promising solution to address the challenges associated with conventional fertilization practices, particularly for sensitive crops such as strawberries. This study investigates the effectiveness of biodegradable PMFs in maintaining nutrient availability at optimal levels while minimizing root burn and nutrient losses. In a factorial field experiment, we obtaineda total of 3780 sets of parallel measured time series for soil EC, moisture, and temperature as well as two sets of harvest data to evaluate the impact of varying concentrations of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) on the nutrient release rates from complex NPK fertilizer and monoammonium phosphate. Results indicate that polymer modifications significantly slow down nutrient release, leading to optimal salt levels and maximizing yield while remaining low enough to prevent the risk of root burn (EC of soil solution below 1 mS/cm). Consequently, the application of PMFs enhances strawberry yield surplus (on average 2.8 times in the second harvest) by ensuring a steady supply of nutrients throughout the growing season without inducing stress, which reduces the yield by nearly half. This research provides valuable insights into the development of more effective fertilization strategies for strawberry cultivation and other sensitive crops using PMFs.

Morphology and Allometry of Juvenile Açaí Palms Under Cultivation Conditions in Central Amazonia

Two Amazonian species of açaí palm trees (Euterpe oleracea and Euterpe precatoria) are exploited in the commercial production of açaí pulp or juice. While E. oleracea benefits from developed cultivation technologies, E. precatoria lacks such advancements. Studies on the morphology and development of açaí palms under cultivation conditions can contribute to increasing the productivity of the species. The aim of this study was to carry out morphological characterization, assess growth and development in the juvenile phase of the plants, and obtain allometric models for E. precatoria and E. oleracea. Evaluations were conducted between 44 and 48 months post-planting. Allometric equations were formulated to accurately estimate leaf area. The results showed that E. oleracea begins reproduction earlier and exhibits greater growth in stem dimensions and leaf areas compared to E. precatoria, indicating that E. precatoria can be cultivated at higher planting densities. Allometric models, based on leaf length and width, effectively predicted individual leaf areas for both species, demonstrating their utility in optimizing cultivation strategies.

Cultural strategies and national expression in overseas dissemination of Chinese and Thai films

Cultural strategies and national expression in overseas dissemination of Chinese and Thai films

Md. Nazmul ISLAM, Power of Bonding and Non-Western Emerging Great Powers Engagement: Comparing China and India’s Soft Power Strategy in Pakistan

Power of Bonding and Non-Western Emerging Great Powers Engagement: Comparing China and India’s Soft Power Strategy in Pakistan by Md. Nazmul Islam is a scholarly exploration that pioneers new perspectives in International Relations. It offers a unique and fresh insight into how non-Western emerging great powers, specifically China and India, utilize soft power strategies to engage with Pakistan. The significance of this four-chapter book lies in its departure from traditional Western-centric viewpoints, providing a distinct lens to comprehend the geopolitical and cultural strategies of these major Asian powers. This unique perspective on non-Western soft power will intrigue scholars, policymakers, and individuals interested in international relations.

Local Cultural Approach in Navigating Family Conflict: Understanding Cultural Strategies for Human Well-Being

Objective: This study explores the complexities of family conflict within a local cultural framework, focusing on its impacts on physical and mental well-being through mapping its intensity, root causes, and long-term consequences. The study aims to understand how unresolved interpersonal tensions can negatively impact emotional and social health, ultimately affecting harmony and balance within local communities. The approach uses a theoretical framework that underscores the importance of culture-based communication, negotiation skills that respect local norms, and appreciation for diverse perspectives as steps to reduce conflict and promote mental health. This research contextualizes conflict within various local cultural settings, specifically within families influenced by communal and intergenerational values. Through in-depth analysis of the family as the unit of study, variables such as communication and social relationships are examined with an emphasis on unique socio-cultural dynamics. The findings highlight the negative impact of unresolved family conflict on emotional well-being and the stability of social relationships within the family unit. Conflict can disrupt interpersonal dynamics, creating long-term disharmony that undermines family cohesion. These adverse effects underscore the need for systematic, ongoing interventions to support mental health and collective well-being. This study emphasizes the importance of addressing family conflict as a critical component in achieving the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of Good Health and Well-being. Interventions that adopt a local cultural approach—such as effective communication strategies and conflict resolution skills rooted in communal norms—are essential for fostering healthier and more harmonious family environments. By identifying three primary approaches—cultural rehabilitation processes, the development of communication that values local culture, and conflict management skills—the study provides practical insights aligned with global efforts to improve mental health and social well-being in accordance with the SDG framework.

Effect of police expenditure on crime rate in India

Purpose This study aims to examine the relationship between law enforcement expenditures, economic indicators and various crime rates in India using data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) spanning from 2001 to 2021. Design/methodology/approach The study uses data sourced from the NCRB covering violent crimes, property crimes, economic crimes and total crimes under the Indian Penal Code across 27 states and 2 union territories in India. Crime rates per 100,000 people are calculated using projected population figures from the 2001 and 2011 censuses, adjusting for census periods and growth rates. Economic variables such as per capita real gross state domestic product (GSDP) and total police expenditure are obtained from state government sources, adjusted to constant prices. Pooled ordinary least squares analysis is conducted to explore the relationships between crime rates, conviction rate, economic factors and police expenditure over the three-time points: 2001, 2011 and 2021. Findings The study reveals a complex relationship between police expenditure and crime rates across different categories in India. Increased police expenditure is positively associated with higher reporting rates for violent and economic crimes, suggesting that enhanced law enforcement resources may improve crime detection and reporting. However, contrary to some expectations, higher police spending does not necessarily lead to a reduction in overall crime rates. Economic prosperity, measured by per capita GSDP, is found to reduce violent crime rates but is associated with an increase in property and economic crimes, likely due to the greater opportunities for such crimes in wealthier regions. Research limitations/implications The study’s reliance on state-level aggregate data and NCRB crime statistics, which are based on reported incidents, might not fully capture the true extent of criminal activity, particularly in regions with underreporting issues. In addition, the use of projected population data beyond 2001 and 2011 introduces some uncertainty into the analysis. Future research should explore district-level data to better understand regional variations in crime and incorporate social, cultural and innovative policing strategies to provide a more comprehensive analysis. Practical implications Policymakers should recognize the nuanced impacts of police expenditure and economic prosperity on crime rates. While increased law enforcement resources may enhance crime reporting, they do not guarantee a reduction in overall crime rates. Economic growth, while beneficial in reducing violent crimes, may inadvertently increase property and economic crimes due to greater opportunities for criminal activity. These insights suggest the need for targeted interventions that consider both economic factors and law enforcement strategies in crime prevention efforts. Originality/value This study contributes to the ongoing debate about the effectiveness of police expenditure in reducing crime by highlighting its limited impact on overall crime rates in India. The findings underscore the importance of understanding the diverse effects of economic prosperity on different crime types, offering valuable insights for policymakers aiming to design evidence-based crime prevention strategies that account for socioeconomic disparities and regional contexts.

Paediatric Emergency Nurses' Perception of Medication Errors: A Qualitative Study.

To explore paediatric emergency nurses' perceptions of medication administration errors. A qualitative, ethnomethodological, descriptive study. The participants were nurses working in the paediatric emergency department. Data were collected through in-depth individual interviews with paediatric emergency nurses. The study excluded nurses employed for less than six months. Ten individual interviews were carried out. All interviews were face-to-face and audio-recorded with the participant's consent. Interviews took between 52 min and 1 h 25 min. A questions guide was followed during the interviews. The analysis of the data was carried out according to the scheme proposed by Taylor and Bogdan. The participants' discourse revealed three main categories: Safety culture, transmitted by supervisors and safety groups. Teamwork, with good communication and a positive relationship. Error management, the lack of formal support and negative feelings despite an understanding of the multifactorial nature of errors. The study identifies several challenges in the healthcare system. Emphasis was placed on the perception of errors in terms of patient harm, while near misses or dose delays or omissions are not treated as errors. Although institutions have implemented safety culture strategies, nurses have not fully embraced them. There is a need to promote a positive safety culture and a safe working environment that encourages communication within the team. The hospital should provide training in safe management and patient safety and develop effective protocols. This study was not registered.

A case study on renewal strategies for industrial communities in urban fringe area

AbstractIn China, the decline of industrial communities suffering from both the aging of physical space and the breakdown of social relations. How to make marginalized and closed industrial communities actively integrate into the development of urban renewal has gradually become an issue of concern.The paper takes the “Jingzhou New Town Industrial Park Urban Design Project” as an opportunity to explore a transformation path suitable for China's national conditions through the study of the history, culture, current problems, and renewal strategies of this heritage-type industrial community.The study finally proposes three renewal strategies for industrial communities, which provide samples with certain reference value for the renewal of old industrial communities.

Research on the Impact of Digital Media on the Communication of Cultural Heritage and Development Strategies -- Taking “Escape from the British Museum” as an Example

The network micro-skit “Escape from the British Museum” narrates the story of a Tangzhi fine tire jade pot from China’s Tang dynasty, personified as it escapes from the British Museum. With the help of journalists, it embarks on a journey to return to its homeland, symbolically bringing back books for cultural relics that cannot be physically returned. This film creatively reconstructs media memory through vivid storytelling and digital communication, enhancing the accuracy and timeliness of conveying the significance of cultural relics. It innovatively reshapes how cultural heritage is communicated to modern audiences. The article explores the impact and opportunities presented by digital communication in the dissemination of Chinese cultural relics. It highlights how digital platforms can revitalize interest and engagement with cultural heritage by making it more accessible and relatable. Furthermore, the paper suggests new strategies for the future application of digitalization in cultural heritage communication, emphasizing the potential for increased interaction and understanding across diverse audiences. By analyzing “Escape from the British Museum,” the article provides a compelling example of how digital media can be harnessed to promote the communication and preservation of cultural relics. This approach not only fosters a deeper appreciation for cultural heritage but also paves the way for innovative practices in the development and dissemination of cultural relics in a globalized world.

Gauging and Linking Intercultural Competence and English Learning Motivation of Non-English Majors in Selected HEIs in China

This quantitative study determined whether students' intercultural competence predicts their English learning motivation significantly. The study was conducted in selected schools in Guangdong, China, and involved a sample of 372 non-English majors currently enrolled in a college English course. A survey was used to assess their level of intercultural competence in terms of intercultural knowledge, attitude, skills, and awareness. The survey also gathered data on students' English learning motivation, measured by intrinsic and extrinsic learning motivation. Data analysis revealed that students recognize the importance of intercultural competence and generally exhibit a good level of competence, especially regarding intercultural attitudes. Regarding their English learning motivation, they demonstrated strong motivation. However, it should be noted that both their intercultural competence and English learning motivation have room for further improvement. The study also indicated that intercultural competence significantly predicts the respondents' continuing professional development. The study's findings have implications for enhancing English learning motivation in schools. They highlight the importance of strengthening students' intercultural competence to motivate them to learn English. Given the predictive role of intercultural competence, its development and targeted cultivation strategies are essential to increase its effectiveness further.

Tropical Indigenous Queer as Guardians of Tradition: The Bissu of Bugis Society, Indonesia

Bissu means neither a man nor a woman, but a holy person representing all genders. The Bissu are unique to the Bugis society of South Sulawesi, Indonesia. Traditional Bugis culture, as told in the ancient La Galigo epic, acknowledges five genders: uruwane (male), makkunrai (female), calabai (male who has female traits), calalai (female who has male traits), and Bissu (all genders). The Bissu have sacred roles in Bugis society. At the royal level, they bridge the relationship between God and king. They are the priestly protectors of the royal heirlooms, without which the kingBissu perform the mappalili ritual as part of rice cultivation. This shamanic ritual, performed during the tropical monsoon season, is to ensure a bountiful harvest. However, the Bissu, and their sacred roles, have faced challenges in modern Indonesia, especially during waves of conservative Islamism. In recent times, Bissu have also received condemnation under the label of LGBTQ. Such actions, although deadly serious, have not had a lasting impact at the local level where the Bissu continue to preserve Bugis culture and traditions. Thus, while LGBTQ groups across Indonesia fight for their rights for social acceptance through legal and political advocacy; the Bissu of Sulawesi, fight for their cultural role as guardians of Indigenous Bugis traditions, highlighting their identity a "the fifth gender". This cultural strategy contributes to practices of queering the tropics.

Assessment of the Psychometric Properties of the Hospital's Culture of Nursing Research Scale Among Nurses.

Background and Purpose: The "Hospital's Culture of Nursing Research Scale" (HCNRS) is a critical assessment tool in health care research. It was created in response to the rising acknowledgment of nursing research's critical role in improving patient care outcomes. This study aimed to develop the HCNRS to assess the nurses' perceptions of the hospital's culture of nursing research. Methods: This study utilized the instrument development design in developing the HCNRS. The study was conducted in Astana, Kazakhstan, from May to September 2023. The study followed three major stages of scale development: "item development," "scale development," and "scale evaluation." "Principal component analysis" (PCA; n = 387) and "confirmatory factor analysis" (CFA; n = 362) were performed in this study. Cronbach's coefficient α was computed for reliability. Results: The PCA on the 32-item HCNRS revealed five factors with an eigenvalue of above 1, contributing 66.0% of the model's total variance. The CFA revealed the following findings supporting the five subscales of the HCNRS-R: χ 2 /df = 2.65, root mean square error of approximation = .068 (90% CI [0.063, 0.072]), comparative fit index = 0.92, Tucker-Lewis index = 0.91, and standardized root mean square residual = .04. Based on the items that loaded in each factor, the subscales were labeled "Research Ethics, Integrity, and Supportive Culture," "Nursing Research Institutionalization," "Hospital's Financial Support and Incentives for Research Initiatives," "Nursing Research Engagement and Innovation," and "Nursing Research Integration and Career Support." The computed Cronbach's coefficient α of the entire scale was .963. For its subscales, the Cronbach's coefficient α ranged from .833 to .953. Conclusions: The study developed a five-factor HCNRS to evaluate the multifaceted aspects of nursing research culture in hospital settings. Health care institutions can utilize this scale to identify areas for improvement in research culture and implement strategies to foster research ethics, integrity, and innovation. This tool can also be used by hospital leaders, policymakers, and nurse researchers seeking to evaluate the research culture within their health care organizations.

Research status and development direction of smart heritage: a bibliometric review (1994-2024)

ABSTRACT Smart heritage, an emerging and sustainable paradigm, utilises technology to conserve and enhance cultural heritage. Despite integration into smart city development, full implementation remains unrealised. Consequently, this study aims to investigate the status and trends of smart heritage research, explore the development direction of smart heritage, bridge existing knowledge gaps, and guide its integration into smart city development. This study employs a bibliometric analysis method, supported by machine algorithms, to obtain scientific and quantifiable results. The study utilises the bibliometric analysis software CiteSpace 6.2R6 to analyze 981 articles from the Web of Science Core Collection, covering 1994 to 2024. We observe a notable increase in scholarly output over time, especially in smart cities and digital cultural strategies, where smart heritage has emerged as a research hotspot across various disciplines and domains. Smart heritage crosses three stages: digital technology application, technology integration, and multidisciplinary integration, showcasing diverse technological applications, service scenarios, and application domains. Moving forward, we must prioritize a comprehensive research agenda, including theoretical constructs, smart cultural infrastructure, robust policy, public engagement, and expanded application realms. Additionally, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration between international entities and driving technological innovation is vital for promoting the sustainable development of cultural heritage.

Innovative strategies for characterizing and managing huanglongbing in citrus.

Huanglongbing is a severe citrus disease that causes significant tree and crop losses worldwide. It is caused by three Candidatus liberibacter species and spread by psyllids and infected budwood. Various methods have been used to diagnose and understand HLB, including recent advances in molecular and biochemical assays that explore the pathogen's mode of action and its impact on the host plant. Characterization is essential for developing sustainable HLB management strategies. Nanotechnology, particularly nano sensors and metal nanoparticles, shows potential for precise disease diagnosis and control. Additionally, antibiotics, nanomaterials, and genetic engineering techniques like transgenesis offer promising avenues for mitigating HLB. These diverse approaches, from conventional to cutting-edge, contribute to developing integrated HLB management strategies for sustainable citrus cultivation. The review highlights the significant advancements in conventional and advanced molecular and biochemical characterization of HLB, aiding in early detection and understanding of the infection mechanism. It emphasizes the multidimensional efforts required to characterize disease and devise innovative management strategies. As the citrus industry faces unprecedented challenges, exploring new frontiers in HLB research provides hope for sustainable solutions and a resilient future for global citrus cultivation.