To investigate the possible role of arbuscular mycrrhizal fungi (AMF) in alleviating the negative effects of salinity on Stevia rebaudiana (Bert.), the regenerated plantlets in tissue culture was transferred to pots in greenhouse and inoculated with Glomus intraradices. Salinity caused a significant decrease in chlorophyll content, photosynthesis efficiency and enhanced the electrolyte leakage. The use of AMF in salt –affected plants resulted in improved all above mentioned characteristics. Hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents increased in salt stressed plants while a reduction was observed due to AMF inoculation. CAT activity showed a significant increase up to 2 g/l and then followed by decline at 5 g/l NaCl in both AMF and non-AMF treated stevia, however, AMF inoculated plants maintained lower CAT activity at all salinity levels (2 and 5 g/l). Enhanced POX activities in salt- treated stevia plants were decreased by inoculation of plants with AMF. The addition of NaCl to stevia plants also resulted in an enhanced activity of SOD whilst, AMF plants maintained higher SOD activity at all salinity levels than those of non-AMF inoculated plants. AMF inoculation was capable of alleviating the damage caused by salinity on stevia plants by reducing oxidative stress and improving photosynthesis efficiency.
In the present work, a series of butyl methacrylate/1-hexene copolymers were synthesized, and their efficiency as viscosity index improvers, pour point depressants, and shear stabilizers of lube oil was investigated. The effect of 1-hexene molar ratio, type, and concentration of Lewis acids on the incorporation of 1-hexene into the copolymer backbone was investigated. The successful synthesis of the copolymers was confirmed through FTIR and 1H NMR spectroscopy. Results obtained from quantitative 1H NMR and GPC revealed that an increase in the molar ratio of 1-hexene to butyl methacrylate, along with concentration of Lewis acids led to an increase in 1-hexene incorporation and a reduction in Mn and Ð. Similar trends were observed when the Lewis acid changed from AlCl3 to organometallic acids. The maximum 1-hexene incorporation (26.4%) was achieved for sample BHY3, with a [1-hexene/BMA] ratio of 4 mol% and a [Yb(OTf)3/BMA] ratio of 2.5 mol%. Evaluation of the synthesized copolymers as lube oil additives demonstrated that the viscosity index was more significantly influenced by samples with higher molecular weight. Sample BHA13 represents maximum VI of 137. The copolymer containing Yb(OTf)3 as a catalyst exhibited superior efficiency as a pour point depressant. Furthermore, sample BHY3 showed the lowest shear stability index (6.4).
This paper explores the distribution of educational resources from the perspective of public service equalization in China, with a particular focus on government responsibility and fiscal input. Initially, the paper reviews the theoretical foundations and empirical studies concerning the distribution of educational resources, analyzing the role of government in educational equity and the impact of fiscal expenditure. By employing quantitative analysis methods, this study utilizes data on provincial education expenditures over several years to examine the relationship between government fiscal input and the equalization of educational resources. Empirical results indicate that increasing educational fiscal input and optimizing the allocation mechanism significantly enhance the level of equalization in educational resources. Furthermore, through case analyses of several local governments, effective policy recommendations are proposed to promote the fair distribution and optimization of educational resources. Lastly, the paper discusses potential obstacles in policy implementation and suggests corresponding strategies.
Objective: This research analyzed the psychometric properties of the Ambivalent Classism Inventory (ICA) in Peru. Methodology: A critical review of literature related to poverty, inequality, and structural gaps was conducted, involving 882 participants aged 14 to 89 years (M = 24.61, SD = 9.07). Results: Exploratory-confirmatory factor analyses were satisfactory, finding a similar factorial structure to the original scale and the adaptation (hostile classism, protective paternalism, and complementary class differentiation). Regarding items, there was a reduction, leaving only 12; however, comparing alternative models, the three-factor structure with 12 reagents showed adequate fit (χ2 = 214.588, df = 51, p < 0.001; CFI = 0.996; RMSEA = 0.060; SRMR = 0.033), allowing for invariance testing. Practical Implications: The scale allows for investigating attitude profiles of individuals with privileged social class. Contribution: The instrument is a valuable contribution, considering that the nation has a high poverty rate, leading to economic, political, and social inequality among the population.
Cyber-physical Systems (CPS) have revolutionized urban transportation worldwide, but their implementation in developing countries faces significant challenges, including infrastructure modernization, resource constraints, and varying internet accessibility. This paper proposes a methodological framework for optimizing the implementation of Cyber-Physical Urban Mobility Systems (CPUMS) tailored to improve the quality of life in developing countries. Central to this framework is the Dependency Structure Matrix (DSM) approach, augmented with advanced artificial intelligence techniques. The DSM facilitates the visualization and integration of CPUMS components, while statistical and multivariate analysis tool such as Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and artificial intelligence methods such as K-means clustering enhance complex system the analysis and optimization of complex system decisions. These techniques enable engineers and urban planners to design modular and integrated CPUMS components that are crucial for efficient, and sustainable urban mobility solutions. The interdisciplinary approach addresses local challenges and streamlines the design process, fostering economic development and technological innovation. Using DSM and advanced artificial intelligence, this research aims to optimize CPS-based urban mobility solutions, by identifying critical outliers for targeted management and system optimization.
This study aims to assess the efficacy of speech-to-text (STT) technology in improving the writing abilities of special education pupils in Saudi Arabia. A deliberate sample of 150 special education college students was selected, with participants randomly allocated to either an experimental group employing STT technology or a control group using traditional writing methods. The study utilized a comprehensive approach, which included standardized writing assessments, questionnaires, and statistical analyses such as t-tests, correlation, regression, ANOVA, and ANCOVA. The results demonstrate a substantial enhancement in writing skills among the experimental group utilizing Speech-to-Text (STT) technology. The findings contribute to the discussion on assistive technology in special education and offer practical recommendations for educators and policymakers.
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