Entire Research Period Research Articles

An Investigation of Public Participation on Policy Formulation in Devolved Government in Keiyo South Sub County, Elgeyo Marakwet County, Kenya

Citizens in many county governments are not empowered to understand their role in development issues and feel that policy makers do not put into consideration their contribution in major decision making particularly affecting key development programs. Citizens in many counties feel more often than not that their predicaments have not been addressed effectively by their governments, bring in a lot of conflicts which at times has resulted in public unrest. This study therefore focused on establishing an investigation of public participation on policy formulation in devolved governments in Keiyo South Sub County, Elgeyo Marakwet County, Kenya. The objectives of this study were to: establish the contribution of public participation in policy formulation in devolved government of Keiyo South Sub County, Elgeyo Marakwet County, Kenya and to determine the level of public participation on policy formulation in devolved government of Keiyo South Sub County, Elgeyo Marakwet County, Kenya. The study was based on Participatory Communication Theory and Ladder of Citizen Participation Theory. The study used a mixed-method approach, integrating both qualitative and quantitative research. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The target population was 115 and the researcher obtained a sample size of 89 respondents using Yamane formulae. The study used stratified random sampling to select the respondents. The study used questionnaires and an interview schedule to collect dataThe statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 24 was used to analyze quantitative data from the closed-ended questions. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Descriptive statistics involved frequencies, percentages, standard deviation, and arithmetic mean. Inferential statistics involved correlation and multiple regression. The analyzed data was presented in the form of charts and tables. Privacy was maintained during the entire research period, and participation was entirely voluntary, free from coercion or inducement. The findings demonstrated that respondents agreed with the statement that member’s ideas and contributions in the public participation are given priorities (Mean=3.70, standard deviation=1.40), further, the findings indicated that that the respondents agreed with the statement that there is a moderate level of public participation on policy formulation (Mean=3.73, standard deviation=1.39). The study concluded that significant number of respondents believed in a high level of grassroots participation and others held contrary views, indicating that there may be disparities in how stakeholders perceive the depth of involvement. The study recommended that policy makers and county authorities should take steps to ensure that public participation processes are equitable and inclusive.

Breaking the Chains of Poverty: Lessons from an Integrated Approach to Sustainable Development

ABSTRACT Poverty is a complex problem that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite the various measures taken, there is still a long way to go in eradicating poverty and improving the standard of living for all. This study evaluates the impact of an integrated approach, designed to address specific constraints faced by poor households, on poverty reduction and socio-economic development. The study employed a Randomized Controlled Trials design to evaluate the impact of the intervention. For the analysis, 100 households in the treatment group received the program, while the control group had an equal number of households that did not receive any assistance during the entire research period. Additionally, the study investigated 400 individuals to assess the individual-level outcomes. The findings suggested that the intervention had a positive impact on all economic and financial outcome variables of the treatment group. The study also reported an improvement in the personal lives of the participants by improving physical and mental health. Moreover, the results suggested that the intervention has contributed to increased political involvement and women’s empowerment. In light of these findings, the study recommends an integrated approach that combines various poverty reduction measures to enhance the well-being of impoverished households.

The “forever” per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): A critical accounting of global research on a major threat under changing regulations

The European Commission's current efforts to launch the largest proposal to restrict per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in history reflect the dire global plight of PFAS accumulation in the environment and their health impacts. While there are existing studies on PFAS research, there is a lack of comprehensive analysis that both covers the entire research period and provides deep insights into global research patterns, incentives, and barriers based on various parameters. We have been able to demonstrate the increasing interest in PFAS research, although citation numbers are declining prematurely. Policy regulations based on proving and establishing the toxicity of PFASs have stimulated research in developed countries and vice versa, with increasing emphasis on ecological aspects. China, in particular, is investing increasingly in PFAS research, but without defining or implementing regulations - with devastating effects. The separation of industrial and environmental research interests is clear, with little involvement of developing countries, even though their exposure to PFAS is devastating. It, therefore, requires increased globally networked and multidisciplinary approaches to address PFAS contamination challenges.

DYNAMICS OF INDICATORS OF THE BLOOD ANTIOXIDANT SYSTEM OF RATS UNDER CONDITIONS OF OXIDATIVE STRESS AND THE ACTION OF THE LIPOSOMAL PREPARATION

The aim of the study – to study the effect of the liposomal drug «Butaintersil» on theantioxidant status of rats under conditions of oxidative stressMaterials and methods. Modeling of oxidative stress was performed on sexually maturemale Wistar rats with a body weight of 180-200 g. In the blood of rats, changes inglutathione peroxidase activity and the level of reduced glutathione, as well as the levels oflipid peroxidation products, lipid hydroperoxide, and TBC-active products, were studied.Results. Intramuscular injection of a 50 % oily solution of tetrachloromethane at a doseof 0.25 ml/100 g of the animal’s body weight led to a change in the activity of the glutathionesystem of antioxidant protection: a decrease in the activity of glutathione peroxidaseand the level of reduced glutathione. At the same time, an increase in lipid peroxidationprocesses, namely an increase in the level of lipid hydroperoxides and TBC-activeproducts during the entire research period was observed in the intoxicated animals. In itsturn, with the additional administration of the liposomal drug «Butaintersil» to animalsunder conditions of tetrachloromethane intoxication, strengthening of the antioxidantstatus of the body of experimental animals was established. Thus, on the 14th day of the experiment, the activity of glutathione peroxidase and the level of reduced glutathionewere the highest in the blood of rats of the second experimental group, where comparedto intoxicated animals, they were 2.1 and 2.37 times higher, respectively. Also, underthe influence of the studied liposomal drug, changes in the levels of lipid peroxidationproducts in the blood of rats of the second experimental group were detected, namely,a decrease in the level of lipid hydroperoxides and TBC-active products in their blood.Conclusions. The obtained results indicate the corrective effect of Butaintersil on theparameters of the antioxidant protection of the body of rats after their intoxication withtetrachloromethane.

Linking drought indices to atmospheric circulation in Svalbard, in the Atlantic sector of the High Arctic

Based on long-term climatological data from Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard Airport—Longyearbyen and the Polish Polar Station at Hornsund, we undertook an analysis of drought indices on Spitsbergen Island, Svalbard, for the period 1979–2019. The features and causes of spatiotemporal variability of atmospheric drought in Svalbard were identified, as expressed by the standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI). There were several-year periods with SPEI indicating the dominance of drought or wet conditions. The long-term variability in the annual and half-year (May–October) SPEI values showed a prevalence of droughts in the 1980s and the first decade of the twenty-first century, while wet seasons were frequent in the 1990s and in the second decade of the twenty-first century. The seasonal SPEIs were characteristic of interannual variability. In MAM and JJA, droughts were more frequent after 2000; during SON and DJF of the same period, the frequency of wet seasons increased. The most remarkable changes in the scale of the entire research period occurred in autumn when negative values of SPEI occurred more often in the first part of the period, and positive values dominated in the last 20 years. The long-term pattern of the variables in consecutive seasons between 1979 and 2019 indicates relationships between the SPEI and anomalies of precipitable water and somewhat weaker relationships with anomalies of sea level pressure. The three stations are located at distances of more than 200 km from each other in the northern (Ny-Ålesund), central (Longyearbyen) and southern parts of Svalbard (Hornsund), and the most extreme values of drought conditions depended on the atmospheric circulation which could have been modified by local conditions thus droughts developed under various circulation types depending on the station. However, some similarities were identified in the atmospheric circulation patterns favouring drought conditions at Ny-Ålesund and Hornsund, both having more maritime climates than Longyearbyen. Extremely dry seasons were favoured by anticyclonic conditions, particularly a high-pressure ridge (type Ka) centred over Svalbard, air advection from the eastern sector under an influence of cyclone and negative precipitable water anomalies. During wet seasons anomalies of precipitable water were positive and cyclonic conditions dominated. These results were corroborated by the frequency of regional circulation types during JJA and DJF with the lowest and highest values of SPEI.

Spatial Distribution Patterns of Zooplankton and Macroinvertebrates in a Small River under Strong Anthropogenic Pressure

The main objective of this study was to examine the spatial distribution patterns of aquatic invertebrates in an environment characterized by significant anthropogenic stress. During the entire research period, at all the sites, we noticed 72 taxa of zooplankton and 30 taxa of macroinvertebrates. Variation partitioning analysis reveals that the assemblages of planktonic organisms are much more determined by the time of sampling rather than by the site, in contrary to macroinvertebrates where the sampling time was only slightly more responsible for the composition of the benthic communities than the site. Spatial distribution of aquatic organisms in a small lowland river under strong anthropopressure shows significant deviations from the expectations of the River Continuum Concept (RCC). The benthic macroinvertebrate and littoral zooplankton communities exhibited a strong association with local site conditions, while, in contrast, pelagic zooplankton exhibited a strong dependency on drift and its production in the upper reaches of the river, leading to relatively consistent compositions downstream despite the highly altered river environment. To improve the biodiversity values and ecological state of a river, restoration treatments of bed and shore zones are required.

The impact of dynamic meteorological conditions in the ATU Gagauzia on the growth and development of grapevines

The southern region of the Republic of Moldova, specifically ATU Gagauzia, offers highly favourable conditions for cultivating diverse grape varieties with multiple harvest utilization options, including wine, brandy, juices, and fresh or dried consumption. Grapevines, adaptable yet sensitive to environmental changes, were the focus of our analysis regarding meteorological fluctuations' impact on the growth of grape shoots and the development of leaf surfaces. Our research aimed to assess the changes in meteorological conditions in the ATU Gagauzia and their impact on the growth dynamics of grapevine shoots, as well as the development of leaf surfaces, yields of introduced clones of European selection. Temperature and precipitation levels significantly impacted the growth of grapevine shoots and the development of shoot leaf surfaces, vines, and vineyards. Aligning these factors with the requirements of grapevines optimizes the growth and development of the annual grapevine growth. Meteorological conditions varied across study years, benefiting grapevine growth in certain years (2017-2018) but proving less favourable in others due (2019-2020) to reduced precipitation and higher temperatures during the growing season. The research findings indicate that the growth parameters of shoots, the development of leaf surfaces, LAI, and yield of clone R5 Cabernet Sauvignon in the agroecological conditions of ATU Gagauzia depend on both the rootstock variety and the fluctuating meteorological conditions. It has been established that when grafting the investigated clone onto RхR 101-14, growth indicators, the development of annual shoot growth, leaf surface and yields were lower compared to the vines grafted onto BxR Kober 5BB. This difference was evident throughout the entire research period but was particularly pronounced during periods of adverse meteorological conditions. Specifically, in 2020, these indicators decreased by 1.1-1.2 times compared to the experimental option BxR Kober 5BB.

A comprehensive attribution analysis of PM2.5 in typical industrial cities during the winter of 2016–2018: Effect of meteorology and emission reduction

The frequent occurrence of air pollution in winter has aroused widespread concern. Identifying the detailed source composition of PM2.5 and assessing the reduction effects of different emission sources are crucial steps in improving pollution levels. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive evaluation of emission source reductions, encompassing ten local and ten regional sources. Furthermore, we analyzed the influence of meteorological changes on the abatement of PM2.5 in Tangshan, Shijiazhuang, Xingtai, and Handan during the winter period from 2016 to 2018. Our findings indicate that, in comparison to the winter of 2016, there were significant decreases in the average concentrations of PM2.5 during the winter of 2017. These decreases were attributed to favorable meteorological conditions and emission reductions. However, during the winter of 2018, there was a rebound in PM2.5 concentrations for all four cities. This rebound was primarily caused by adverse meteorological diffusion conditions. Throughout the entire research period spanning from the winter of 2016 to 2018, emission reduction played a significant role in PM2.5 abatement, contributing to 68% in Tangshan, 87% in Shijiazhuang, 93% in Xingtai, and 96% in Handan, respectively. The source apportionment analysis revealed that industrial and residential sources were the dominant contributors to PM2.5 concentrations in the cities. These findings not only confirm the effectiveness of existing industrial and residential pollution control policies but also highlight the imperative need for implementing non-point source control and joint control measures for regional elevated sources in the future.

REPRODUCTIVE ABILITY OF BEE QUEENS AND PRODUCTIVITY OF BEES FEEDING MAGNESIUM CITRATES

The research was conducted on two groups of bees families-analogs, three families in each group. Bees of the control (I) group were fed with 60% of sugar syrup (s.s) in the amount of 2 l / family / week. Bees of the II (experimental) group with 2 l of s.s. received 4 mcg/ml of Mg in the form of citrate obtained by the nanotechnology method from LLC Nanomaterials and Nanotechnologies, Kyiv. Indicators of bee queens egg laying intensity was determined by the method of counting the amount of number of sealed brood. Samples of bee body tissues and honey were investigated, in which the content of individual heavy metals (Fe, Сu, Zn) was determined on an atomic absorption spectrophotometer SF-115 PC, as well as the qualitative indicators of honey. According to the results of the researches during the entire research period bee queens of the control (1st), 2nd research groups oviposited 47783 and 49721 eggs, respectively. Probable inter group differences of egg laying were marked at feeding bee families pure sugar syrup and with adding to it citrates Mg. Amount of oviposited eggs in the 2nd research groups during the research period was higher accordingly by 1,4 % in comparison to the control group. Research results specify on expediency of application of citrates of Mg for stimulation of vital functions of bee colony and increasing the reproductive ability of queen bees during their intensive egg laying
 Researches have shown changes in the correlation of trace elements in body tissues of bees with an increase in the content of Fe, Cu and a decrease in the concentration Zn. Feeding of bees with Mg citrates caused an increase parameters of honey, as evidenced by the probable increase in diastasis number and proline content in honey of bees of the experimental groups. Organoleptic characteristics of honey when feeding bees with Mg citrates did not change significantly in the experimental groups compared with the control and met the current standards of DSTU 4497: 2005. It is concluded that feeding bees with the addition to sugar syrup Mg nanotechnological citrates stimulates the intensity of egg laying by queen bees, mineral exchange in their organism and optimizes the content of trace elements and quality indicators in products.

Photovoltaic panels efficiency on the ships

In this paper, the main goal was to integrate photovoltaic panels in the power generation systems of ships in the marine environment in order to reduce pollution and make energy consumption more efficient. Taking into account the route of the ship with the help of which the experimental data was taken at 3 photovoltaic panels and thanks to the navigation equipment through which the parameters of the hydrometeorological conditions were extracted from the entire research period, the main influences of the environment on the obtained electrical yield were analyzed. This work directly contributes to future optimizations in terms of integration of solar power generation systems in the marine environment.

Trends in counts of Columbiformes at Shakpak Pass, Kazakhstan

Abstract. Bekzhan BT, Ivan FG, Andrey GE, Aizhan TE, Syrymgul ZKH. 2023. Trends in counts of Columbiformes at Shakpak Pass, Kazakhstan. Biodiversitas 24: 4661-4667. This study aims to determine the trends in counts of Columbiformes (pigeons and doves) at Shakpak Pass in Western Tien Shan (southern Kazakhstan). The analysis is based on long-term ringing data collected from 1966 to 2023, encompassing eight pigeon and dove species. The results reveal notable trends in the counts of Columbiformes over time, which can reflect changes in population sizes. Different species show different numbers in counts among different seasons. The Rock Dove population, predominantly non-migratory, displays no pronounced trend. The Stock Dove population has experienced a decline in recent years, yet it remains consistent throughout the entire research period. Counts of the Woodpigeon demonstrate an increasing trend during autumn migration, whereas the Yellow-eyed Pigeon exhibits a noteworthy decrease in both spring and autumn migrations. The Oriental Turtle Dove appears abundant during both spring and autumn migrations, with its count data exhibiting fluctuations devoid of any significant trend. The Laughing Dove is considered rare at Shakpak Pass, which makes determining a clear trend challenging; however, a negative trend is noted in autumn. Counts of the Turtle Dove have markedly decreased in both spring and autumn migrations, resulting in the species being nearly absent at Shakpak Pass since 2005. Regarding the Collared Dove, a non-migratory species, its abundance at Shakpak Pass is also limited. These findings provide valuable insights into the population trends of Columbiformes in Kazakhstan and highlight the importance of long-term monitoring and conservation efforts for these species.

A Health App Platform Providing a Budget to Purchase Preselected Apps as an Innovative Way to Support Public Health: Qualitative Study With End Users and Other Stakeholders.

eHealth has the potential to improve health outcomes. However, this potential is largely untapped. Individuals face an overload of apps and have difficulties choosing suitable apps for themselves. In the FitKnip experiment, individuals were given access to a health app platform, where they could purchase reliable preselected health apps with a personal budget of €100 (US $107.35). By conducting a prospective study, we aimed to scientifically evaluate the FitKnip experiment as an innovative way to improve population health. The aim of the experiment was to scientifically evaluate the FitKnip experiment as an innovative way to improve population health. More specifically, we conducted an in-depth qualitative evaluation of the concept and acceptability of FitKnip, its perceived impact on health empowerment, as well as the roles of stakeholders for the future implementation of a health app platform through focus group interviews. This study followed a phenomenological research design and included 7 focus group interviews with end users and 1 with stakeholders, held between July and December 2020. End users were recruited through various institutions in the Netherlands, for example, insurance companies and local governments. All focus groups were semistructured using interview guides and were held via videoconferencing due to the COVID-19 pandemic measures. Each participant received access to a health app platform where they were enabled to purchase reliable, preselected health apps with a budget of €100 (US $107.35). The budget was valid for the entire research period. The health app platform offered 38 apps. A third party, a health care coalition, selected the apps to be included in FitKnip. The analyses were conducted according to the principles of the Framework Method. A priori formulated themes were concept, acceptability, health empowerment, and outcomes, and the roles of stakeholders for the future implementation of a health app platform. Both end users (n=31) and stakeholders (n=5) were enthusiastic about the concept of a health app platform. End users indicated missing apps regarding physical health and lifestyle and needing more guidance toward suitable apps. End users saw health empowerment as a precondition to using a health app platform and achieving health outcomes depending on the purchased mobile apps. End users and stakeholders identified potential providers and financing parties of FitKnip. Stakeholders recommended the establishment of a reputable national or international quality guidelines or certification for health and wellbeing apps, that can demonstrate the quality and reliability of mobile health applications. This study showed the need for a personalized and flexible platform. Next to this, a deeper understanding of the roles of stakeholders in such initiatives is needed especially on financing and reimbursement of health promotion and digital health services. A personalized, flexible health app platform is a promising initiative to support individuals in their health.

The effect of hydrothermal conditions on the yield of spring soft wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) when using mineral fertilizers in the arid Volga region

The paper reflects the results of the effectiveness of the use of various doses of mineral fertilizers in a long stationary experiment on spring soft wheat for nine rotations of a six-field crop rotation (27 years of cultivation) in the conditions of the steppe zone of the Volga region. The systematic use of medium and high doses of nitrogen-phosphorus fertilizers contributed to obtaining the highest yield increases to control in the experiment throughout the entire research period. The average level of correlation between hydrothermal conditions in the period May-July and crop productivity has been established. Separate calculations by month showed an average level of correlation with June. Based on the results of regression analysis, the degree of influence of hydrothermal conditions as a factorial feature on the productivity of spring soft wheat in the experiment was determined. The analysis showed that the effect of the obtained values of the hydrothermal coefficient in May and July on the production process of vegetating plants was insignificant, and in June it reached 30% according to experience.

ICL Postimplantation Decentration and Tilt in Myopic Patients with Primary Iridociliary Cysts.

To observe the decentration and tilt of implantable collamer lens (ICL) as well as possible visual effects postimplantation in primary iridociliary cysts. The present investigation was a retrospective cohort study. All 48 patients (91 eyes) who underwent ICL surgery at the Center of Refraction Surgery of Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital between July 2018 and May 2020 were split into two groups based on the absence or presence of primary iridociliary cysts established by ultrasonic biological microscopy (UBM) examination. Intraocular pressure (IOP), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), anterior chamber angle (ACA), anterior chamber volume (ACV), and anterior chamber depth (ACD) were recorded preoperatively and postoperatively at 1, 6, and 12 months. Additionally, we performed an analysis of the ICL vault, decentration, and tilt using a rotating Scheimpflug Oculus Pentacam camera system at 1, 6, and 12 months after surgery. No serious complications were observed. Significant postoperative improvement (P < 0.05) of UDVA was established in the two studied groups; however, we did not observe statistically significant intergroup differences (P > 0.05) throughout the entire research period. In each group, the preoperative ACA, ACV, and ACD were statistically significantly reduced (P < 0.05), but no such decrease was established between their postoperative values (P > 0.05). We observed no statistical differences between both groups with regard to their values of IOP, ACA, ACV, ACD, ICL vault, ICL decentration, and tilt at 1, 6, and 12 months after surgery. Similarly, no statistically significant within-group correlation (P > 0.05) of the decentration of ICL and the tilt and the CDVA values was established. No postimplantation effect of ICL with a central hole on vision was established in myopia patients with primary iridociliary cysts, within certain limits of ICL decentration and tilt values.

Effective Removal of Biogenic Substances Using Natural Treatment Systems for Wastewater for Safer Water Reuse

Natural Treatment Systems for Wastewater (NTSW) show great potential for economic, socially acceptable and environmentally friendly wastewater treatment, along with the renewal of water for its safe reuse. This article presents the reduction in nitrogen and phosphorus compounds in domestic wastewater, which was achieved in a 2.5-year operation of the newly developed NTSW. The presented installation was developed by the Institute of Applied Ecology in Skórzyn (Poland) and implemented as a pilot plant serving the institute building with three permanent residents and up to five employees. The installation consisted of two parts, responsible for: wastewater treatment (septic tank and compost beds) and water renewal (denitrification beds, phosphorus beds and activated carbon beds). The mean values of nitrogen and phosphorus compound concentrations obtained in the renewed water for the entire research period were: 0.8, 49.4, 12 and 3.1 mg/L for ammonium nitrogen (NH4), nitrates (NO3), total nitrogen and phosphates (PO4), respectively. Thus, average reductions of 99.6%, 90.9% and 94.4% were obtained for NH4, total nitrogen and PO4, respectively. Treatment of domestic sewage to such a level, similar to drinking water, enables versatile, safe water reuse, which in the situation of increasingly limited water resources will constitute increasing ecological and economic value.

User Skills and Utilization of E-Resources by Undergraduate Students at Tangaza University Library, Nairobi County, Kenya

The rapidly changing world has been influenced by information communication technology that has affected every aspect of education, and the institutions of higher learning mostly in developed countries. The expansion of ICT has offered better opportunities in the learning environments especially for developing countries. Therefore, the study aim was to establish the relationship between undergraduate student’s ICT skills and use of electronic resource at Tangaza University Library, Nairobi County. This research is anchored on the Technological Determinism Theory. The study adopted a descriptive research design and both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The study adopted a stratified random sampling in which 168 respondents from a target population of 1680 were selected. Data were collected using questionnaires, observation, and interviews and were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics and results presented in tables, and figures. Researcher observed research ethics during the entire research period. The findings showed that user skills had a positive correlation. The study concluded that user skills were significantly related to the utilization of e-resources by the undergraduate student because the P-Value for each variable was &lt; 0.05 which shows that ICT skills are significantly related to the utilization of e-resources by undergraduate students of Tangaza University Library. The study recommends that Tangaza University Library should ensure that orientation programs on usage and access of e-resources and regularly conducted for user access training, usage, and retrieval of resources through ICT. The management board should conduct workshops and seminars on ICT skills and ICT literacy for students and staff to enable the university to develop a culture of ICT usage.

Development of wheat leaf blotches depending on soil tillage system

Conservative soil tillage is considered as the main tool to preserve soil fertility, to reduce gas emissions, and to save financial and labour resources. However, majority of researchers have found that different systems of reduced soil tillage increase the occurrence of slugs, weeds and diseases, including wheat diseases. The aim of the present study was to determine the impact of reduced soil tillage on the severity of winter wheat leaf blotches. The influence of different soil tillage systems and crop rotation on the severity of winter wheat disease was evaluated in a two-factorial experiment: A – soil tillage system (A1 – traditional soil tillage with ploughing at the depth of 22–24 cm); A2 – reduced soil tillage with disc harrowing up to the depth of 10 cm); and B – different crop rotations (B1 – continuous winter wheat; B2 – winter wheat and oilseed rape were grown; B3 – crop rotation). The severity of diseases was determined approximately every 10 days during the whole vegetation season, the total disease impact was estimated by calculating the area under the disease progress curve. Tan spot, caused by Pyrenophora tritici-repentis and Septoria tritici blotch, caused by Zymoseptoria tritici dominated in trials during the entire research period. Soil tillage is the most important factor promoting the development of tan spot, continuous wheat sowings also increased the severity of tan spot. The development of Septoria tritici blotch did not depend on the agronomic practice applied.

Light Traps to Study Insect Species Diversity in Soybean Crops

We aimed to monitor the species diversity and the dynamics of the number of soybean pests using light traps with an original design to develop protection systems against the main phytophages. Traps lured 44 species of insects from eight orders and 27 families. The capture of 15 species of economically important phytophages was recorded—representatives of various orders and families: order Lepidoptera—Noctuidae, Crambidae, Erebidae, and Geometridae; order Hemiptera—Flatidae; order Coleoptera—Elateridae, etc. Insect identification was carried out via morphological methods. Over the study period (93 days), 4955.41 insect specimens were caught on average per one trap. Most of the attracted insects belong to harmful entomofauna: namely the cotton bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera, Hübner)—58.9%, the beet webworm (Loxostege sticticalis, L.)—12.74%, the nutmeg moth (Anarta trifolii, Hufnagel)—6.5%, the European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis, Hübner)—2.68%, and some other species—19.2%. In addition to economically significant phytophages, we registered some indifferent and beneficial species. The summer dynamics of the cotton bollworm and the nutmeg moth were obtained for the entire research period. Then, we calculated the values of the indices of biodiversity and the dominance of insect species. An analysis of the index values allows us to conclude a balanced entomocomplex at the research site.

China as a subject of the international tourist market

Given the prospects for the development of the Chinese tourism market, we consider it appropriate to thoroughly study the impact of Chinese conditions on the global tourism industry and China's international tourism positioning. Literary analysis of Chinese tourism research has shown a growing interest in this issue since the 2010s. Most scholars, tourism practitioners, government officials and professionals in tourism agencies agree that the Chinese tourism market has mega potential and high development dynamics. However, while scientific reviews of the past decade have focused exclusively on researching the travel geography of Chinese travelers and the dynamics of Chinese outbound tourism, modern work provides a deep understanding of Chinese tourists' behavior and experiences and highlights negative aspects of Chinese mass tourism. In this article, the author specifies China's place in the global tourism market, using quantitative data and tourism indices. In particular, after ranking the world countries on key quantitative indicators of the level of development of the tourism industry (number of tourists, number of international tourist arrivals, number of revenues from tourism), China's strong position was revealed (3rd, 4th and 11th respectively).Graphs of changes in the number of international tourist arrivals and cash inflows from tourism showed a positive trend. In particular, in 2019 a record was reached among the number of tourists and the number of tourist arrivals in China for the entire research period. At the same time, it should be noted that the Covid-19 pandemic has not bypassed China's tourism sector and in 2020 the number of international tourist arrivals decreased fivefold (this is the lowest figure for the country in the history of collecting international tourism statistics, since 1995). revenues from international tourists reached 14.2 billion dollars. (less than ever in the last 20 years). The prospects of the Chinese market and optimistic dynamics of its development were evidenced by the highest rating indices in the field of tourism and travel − Travel &amp; Tourism Competitiveness Index (2019) and Travel &amp; Tourism Development Index (2021), where China ranked 13th and 12th respectively. Thus, quantitative indicators and integrated indices have confirmed China's important position in the tourism market and allow us to predict their stable strengthening and China's short-term world leadership in the tourism sector.

Improving the energy efficiency of a solar air heater with a heat exchanger – accumulator

The authors of the work presented developed solar air-heater with a spiral heat exchanger-accumulator based on their developed scheme. The article discusses a result of experimental studies, the high energy efficiency of a solar air-heater with a spiral heat exchanger-accumulator in the mode of medium heating of heat carriers in the natural and climatic conditions of Karshi. In July 2021, the maximum level of solar radiation was recorded for the entire experimental and research period. This article shows that the maximum air temperature rose to 78 °C due to the use of oil to collect heat in the SAH and that hot air was supplied to the consumer during the day. As a result of experimental studies, the main experimental designs and modes of operation of the solar air heater with a spiral heat exchanger-accumulator were substantiated.