This month’s issue journeys through Landscapes of the Soul, mapping our inner geographies.

The human soul is a landscape shaped by countless forces: the wounds we inherit, the loves we experience, the places we remember, the losses we endure, and the dreams that carry us forward. Like a physical landscape, the inner world contains mountains and valleys, storms and seasons, deserts of loneliness and gardens of renewal. The works in this collection explore these inner terrains, revealing the many ways people search for meaning, connection, healing, and transcendence.

First, some announcements. Contributor Peter Dellolio has a new poetry collection coming out from New Meridian Arts, Catch Of The Day.

CATCH OF THE DAY is a collection of surreal poems based on the concept of irrational collage or juxtaposition so often found in Surrealism, where totally unrelated and disconnected elements are combined. Each poem is a stanza of lines that are self-contained and bear no logical connection to one another. My hope is that this brings out some of the magical, incantatory powers of language.

If you’d like to order a copy, New Meridian Press invites you to contact them at newmeridianarts1@gmail.com for a discount.

Also, our regular contributor Rui Carvalho invites readers and contributors to submit poetry to the next annual Nature Writing Contest.

Our contest, Nature 2025-2026, is a new opportunity that we, as organizers, create to reach the rest of the world. Every Contest is a challenge for authors participating and to people that make it happen. This year we invite all authors to write poetry about:
(i) Flowers;
(ii) Trees and wind;
(iii) Water;
(iv) Nature Conservation;
(v) Turtles;
(vi) Love for people and nature;
(vii) Hope and Happiness.

Rules and submission information here.

Now for our second July issue, Landscapes of the Soul.

Every soul carries traces of the past, and several contributors look at the wounds we carry from the histories that have shaped us. Srijani Dutta’s poetry reminds us that struggle is an inescapable part of the human existence. Abigail George speaks to the inherited language of addiction, a shared, familial dialect of suffering. Adamu Muhammad Ja’agi suggests that forgiveness can be a powerful act of liberation, allowing a person who has been hurt to reclaim their identity beyond inherited pain. In Aleksandra Soltysiak’s poetry, translated by Olga Smolnytska, memory becomes a haunted and unreliable mirror where love, loss, and truth shimmer between revelation and illusion.

In Naim Al-Musafir’s Voices from There, translated from Arabic into English by Faleeha Hassan, landscapes themselves become keepers of memory. Through magic realism and social history, the story reveals how places preserve the stories of those who have suffered, departed, and returned. Cyril Erchev’s piece reflects the experience of diaspora: a woman out of place in her present world but spiritually still walking the fjords of her ancestors. Sayani Mukherjee explores the emotional geography of homeland, where beauty and trauma exist side by side. Mahesh Paudyal enters the darker regions of memory, examining how disturbing experiences linger within the human mind. Abigail George’s long meditative poem asks how a person survives when love, home, peace, and certainty disappear.

Within the landscapes of the soul, the gardens of love provide shelter and transformation. Türkan Ergör points out that love is an active choice, not just a state of being or a feeling. Chidimma Ewelukwa shows how daily acts of motherly care become expressions of profound emotional connection. David Kokoette similarly honors motherhood as a vocation, emphasizing the devotion, responsibility, and meaning found in nurturing another life. Berdinazarova Jasmina Mirshod qizi celebrates the continued love and care of her father. Bill Tope explores the uncertain landscape of adolescence, capturing the vulnerability of discovering oneself through relationships. The poetry of Barbaros İrdelmen travels through different seasons of human experience, reflecting on mortality, romantic love, and the dynamics of long-term relationships. Hassan Musa Dakasku reflects on the possibilities and responsibilities of friendship.

Eva Lianou Petropoulou celebrates love as essential to both self-understanding and connection with others, while Dr. Prasanna Kumar Dalai expands love into a force capable of reshaping identity, time, and existence itself. Graciela Noemi Villaverde reframes “saving” not as a onetime heroic act, but as a quiet, steady, loving presence that transforms what was dead or broken into something that can still grow. Reema Hamza’s poem highlights how love can transform longing, exile, and devastation into a sacred, defiant act of remaking the world. Kang Young-eun discovers holiness in everyday experiences, transforming bread, wine, evening light, loneliness, and memory into symbols of human connection and spiritual awareness.

The soul is also a place of questioning, conflict, and spiritual discovery. Duane Vorhees explores the self as an internal battlefield where instinct, conscience, and reason compete for control. Elmaya Jabbarova reminds us of the need to choose love and moral behavior and the ultimate folly of cruelty. Mesfakus Salahin presents existence as a pilgrimage guided by love, personal choice, and the search for ultimate truth. Wan Yilong presents a spiritual journey through combined metaphors from ancient Buddhist Pure Land teachings and modern cosmic space opera. Jack Phillips Lowe’s short story presents an everyday vignette in the life of a person who takes medicine for a mental health condition. Mark Young’s poetry explores how we assemble ourselves from the bricolage of our surroundings. Joe Couture’s pieces highlight selfhood built through physical work and wear and tear on the body over time. Sumana Bhattacharjee’s poetry points out how we can find meaning in life’s struggles when we follow our own consciences and trust our inner strength.

The internal battlefield metaphor applies to nations and political entities as much as to individuals, as they also struggle with identity and conscience. Jacques Fleury presents America as a nation continually struggling between its highest ideals and its darkest realities. Aminu Femi Jamiu mourns and marks the loss of young Esther Harrison, a schoolgirl murdered in Nigeria. Yeon Myung-ji’s poetry, narrated by the ancient Chinese emperor Qin Shi Huang (creator of the terracotta army found in his grave) highlights how even a person who held absolute power was humbled by death and the limits of his human knowledge. Alan Catlin’s poetic series depicts the waking nightmares of a civilization in decline, where the only honest witness knows they’re floating away from shore and still can’t stop watching. Bilal Al-Masri interviews author Dr. Jernail Singh about a variety of topics, including the moral and social responsibilities of authors in times of institutional injustice and suffering. Stephen Jarrell Williams points to a hinge moment in a civilization, when a society reaches a necessary collapse that leads to a more just rebirth.

Dr. Jernail S. Anand reflects on human weakness and limitation, arguing that imperfection is not something to overcome but something that gives life its depth and meaning. In conversation, Dr. Jernail Singh and Dr. Annie John describe poetry as a spiritual and ethical journey. The poet becomes both witness and seeker, exploring human suffering while reaching toward universal wisdom. J.J. Campbell becomes an observer in his own life, as apathy with wry humor is safer than grief. Priyanka Neogi points out that each of us have different layers and dimensions to our personalities. Nidia Amelia Garcia speculates on the life and wisdom of an old man by observing his photograph. Teresa de Lujan Safar’s piece celebrates the grace, strength, self-possession, and inner dignity of an older woman. With another human response, Thi Lan Anh Tran and Musharraf Hussain celebrate perseverance and inner strength, showing how resilience allows individuals to rise beyond adversity.

As we are part of nature, outdoor landscapes can mirror the landscapes of the soul. Shah Jehan Ashrafi views autumn as a profound metaphor for death, surrender, transformation, and rebirth. The falling leaves become symbols of necessary endings that make new beginnings possible. Mahbub Alam speaks to the cleansing and renewing energy of the Bangladeshi monsoon rains. O’ktamova Sabrina Mahmud qizi describes an ecological analysis of the health of Uzbek humus and soil. Dessy Tsvetskova’s Tree of Life portrays women as a source of creation, memory, resilience, and renewal. Rooted in the earth yet reaching toward the heavens, the tree represents continuity across generations.

Ananya Guha celebrates the beauty of dancing peacocks, offering a moment of wonder and connection with the natural world. Timothee Bordenave explores ideas that benefit both humanity and the environment, suggesting that the health of the planet is connected to the health of the human spirit. Brian Barbeito captures the quiet landscape of winter, reminding readers of the shared rhythms of nature and the reflective stillness that accompanies seasonal change. Dianne Reeves Angel reminisces about long stretches of teen summer fun in the pool and with friends.

Art is one way humanity can join nature in the process of creation. Federico Wardal’s article notes the Egyptian government’s commitment to promoting and showcasing current and historical arts and culture. Andrena Zawinksi explores the artist’s search to create, be recognized, and remain alive through creative expression. Alex Johnson reflects on the relationship between life and art through his encounter with a publicist representing Philip Glass, revealing the irony that reality itself can sometimes imitate artistic structures. Tanja Ajtic’s poem threads watercolor’s quiet disciplines of washes, shades, making use of empty white space, into a metaphor for a life lived in silence, holding back opinions, feeling the world’s eruptions but never speaking of them. Christina Chin’s haiga and illustration create a unified moment of beauty, demonstrating how words and images can combine to form a single imaginative landscape. Cri8or’s vibrant digital artworks add splashes of color and intriguing shapes to the issue. Fhen M. uses ekphrastic poetry inspired by Priamo della Quercia’s Circle of the Falsifiers to explore the destruction caused by dishonesty and the moral landscapes created by truth and deception. Maria Barnes journeys into a darker psychological landscape, using unsettling imagery and music to symbolize the struggle between the conscious self and hidden fears.

The soul also grows through learning and discovery. Ismatova Dilnura emphasizes the importance of books in children’s education, illustrating reading as a gateway to imagination, knowledge, and possibility. Omonova Dinora Anvarjon qizi celebrates the many ideas and life lessons found within books. Navbaxar Mahmudjanovna Karimova points to ways to encourage the creation of new educational knowledge. Amonboyeva Shahnoza examines the changing landscape of education in the age of artificial intelligence. While technology may assist learning, she argues that creativity, imagination, and human connection remain uniquely human qualities. Although, as Ibroximova Hayitxon Mirzoxidjon qizi points out, artificial intelligence may take over in other human endeavors, including accounting. Maxliyo Alijonova highlights the educational work of Uzbekistan’s Ashurali Legacy Academy, demonstrating how institutions preserve knowledge, culture, and intellectual heritage. Akhmetova Nodira Po’lat qizi underscores the importance of digital literacy for modern Uzbek students. Jasmina Ismatullayeva relates the value of study-abroad experiences for students and why she wishes to travel.

Finally, a few works in this collection highlight the depths of truth within ordinary experiences. Travis Park’s brief, image-driven poems transform familiar places into reflections on uncertainty, memory, and human connection. Mykyta Ryzhykh uses the sea and the house as symbols of existence, showing humanity surrounded by immense forces while often feeling isolated and forgotten. Shlok Pandey’s coming-of-age story addresses loneliness, compassion, observation, and the discovery of beauty in everyday life. Naeem Aziz reminds readers that true value often exists beneath appearances, encouraging a deeper understanding of the gifts each person carries.

Together, these works create a map of the human soul. They travel through valleys of suffering, gardens of love, mountains of reflection, and seasons of transformation. They show that every person carries an inner landscape shaped by memory, relationships, struggles, dreams, and hopes.

“Landscapes of the Soul” reveals that humanity is defined not by avoiding hardship, but by transforming experience into wisdom, compassion, creativity, and renewal. Across cultures and voices, these writers remind us that the journey inward is also a journey toward one another. We hope that you enjoy hearing from each other throughout this issue!

STUDYING ABROAD  – A DOOR OPENED TOWARD DREAMS 

«The future begins today», and this wisdom carries a deep meaning. The goals a person sets today determine the results they achieve tomorrow. I am also one of the young people who have set a great goal for their future. I have recently successfully completed the 9^th grade at School No.16 “ JASORAT” in Kasbi district, Kashkadarya region, and I am stepping forward into the 10^th grade with confidence. During this important period of my life, I have started thinking more seriously about my future and the path I want to follow. I believe that every person has a moment or an encounter that changes the way they see life. I experienced such a moment as well.

A foreign teacher who came to our school to teach us became one of the main reasons why my interest in studying abroad grew stronger. This teacher not only shared knowledge about their subject but also introduced us to their country’s education system, culture, traditions and way of thinking. Through their lessons, I realized that the true purpose of education is not only to receive good grades, but also to learn how to think independently, explore new ideas, create innovations, and become connected with the world. From that moment, studying abroad became one of my greatest dreams and goals.

The people who have given me the greatest support on this journey are my parents. When I shared my dream of studying abroad with them, they welcomed my idea, believe in me, and encouraged me to work hard. I deeply understand that the trust and support of parents are among the greatest sources of strength for a child. Their prayers and encouragement motivate me to move forward toward my goals every day.

Today, studying abroad is not only an opportunity for the children of wealthy families, as some people may think. If a person has a thirst for knowledge, dedication, and determination, may universities around the world can open their doors to them. Various scholarships, grants and international education programs are helping thousands of young people achieve their dreams. However, to take advantage of these opportunities, it is necessary to improve English exams such as IELTS and SAT, study school subjects deeply, and continuously work on personal development.

There are many advantages to studying abroad. First of all, students have the opportunity to study with modern laboratories, experienced professors, and advanced educational methods. They can combine theoretical knowledge with practical experience. By studying together with students from different countries, they can discover new cultures, lifestyles, and prespectives. This experience broadens their worldview, helps them enhance foreign language skills, and allows them to build international friendships.

Another important benefit of studying abroad is that it prepares a person for independent life. Managing time effectively, taking responsibility, solves issues freely, and adapting to different environments are valuable qualities that develop through such experiences. These skills become a strong foundation for future success.

Many people think that entering a foreign university is extremely difficult. However, the hardest step is often the first one – starting!. Reading one page of a book today, learning a new English word, or solving one mathematical problems may seem like a small achievement. But these small steps can lead you towards the world’s most prestigious universities in the future. Great achievements always begin with small actions.

I am also following this path today. I am sorting out improving my English skills and preparing to achieve international certificates such as IELTS, SAT, and other qualifications. I know that many challenges are waiting ahead, but I believe that every challenges will bring me closer to my goal. I am not working only for myself, but also to justify my family’s trust, appreciate the efforts of my teachers, and contribute to the development of my homeland in the future.

Dear friends and fellow students! If you also dream of studying abroad, do not postpone your dreams. Start working from TODAY.  Learn languages, read books, participate in competitions, and never stop searching for new knowledge. Believe in yourself despite nobody do not believe to you. Because success do not come overnight, but daily efforts always bring results.

As the saying goes, «Knowledge is the greatest wealth that elevates a person». Dreams become reality only in the hands of those who believe in them and continue working toward them. I want to be one of those people. I strongly believe that my efforts today will become the foundation of my achievements tomorrow, and one day I will study at one of the world’s leading universities and use the knowledge and experience I gain to make a contribution to the progress of my homeland.

Ecological-Geochemical Assessment of Soil Salinization and Humus Degradation in the Irrigated Lands of Kashkadarya Province, Uzbekistan

Author: Oʻktamova Sabrina Mahmud qizi

1st-year Student of Ecology, Faculty of Geography and Agronomy, Karshi State University, Uzbekistan

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Abstract

Anthropogenic land degradation in the arid zones of Central Asia poses a severe threat to agricultural security. This study presents a comprehensive ecological-geochemical assessment of irrigated soils in the Karshi Steppe of the Kashkadarya Province, focusing on Kasbi and Nishan districts. Soil samples collected from the 0–20 cm and 20–40 cm depths were systematically analyzed for pH, electrical conductivity (EC_1:5), dry residue (TDR), individual toxic ions (Cl^-, SO_4^2-), and soil organic matter (SOM/Humus). The geochemical analysis revealed a predominant sulfate-chloride type of secondary salinization, with dry residue values exceeding $1.1\%$ in heavily impacted zones of the Kasbi district. Concurrently, a critical decline in soil organic matter was observed, with average humus levels dropping to $0.65\%–0.88\%$. This paper establishes the direct correlation between high saline groundwater tables and topsoil degradation, proposing integrated ecological mitigation measures such as gypsum application, biological drainage, and conservation agriculture to halt further desertification in southern Uzbekistan.

Keywords: Karshi Steppe, Kashkadarya, Soil Salinization, Sulfate-Chloride Chemistry, Humus Depletion, Arid Geochemistry.

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1. Introduction

The transformation of the Karshi Steppe in the southern part of Uzbekistan during the 1970s via the construction of the Karshi Cascade of Canals stands as one of the largest hydrological engineering feats in Central Asia. It brought over a million hectares of virgin grey-brown (bo’z-qo’ng’ir) and desert soils under intensive irrigation, primarily for cotton and wheat monoculture. However, this massive anthropogenic intervention lacked sufficient closed horizontal and vertical drainage networks, leading to a long-term ecological imbalance (Gafurova et al., 2020).

Under the influence of a sharply continental, arid climate—where potential evapotranspiration exceeds precipitation by almost tenfold—the water-salt balance of the region’s soils has shifted dramatically. The saline groundwater table has risen from a depth of 10–15 meters to a critical level of 1.5–2.0 meters from the surface (Kuziev & Sektimenko, 2009).Capillary forces continuously pull this brackish water upward, depositing high concentrations of toxic sodium chloride and magnesium sulfate in the root zone upon evaporation.

In addition to salinization, the ecological status of these soils is highly threatened by organic carbon depletion. Humus (soil organic matter) is the core indicator of soil biological activity and physical structure. Intensive tillage, burning of crop residues, and lack of organic manure application have accelerated the mineralization of organic carbon, leading to a structural collapse of the soil. This study aims to provide a precise geochemical and ecological evaluation of these dual degradation processes in the Kasbi and Nishan districts of Kashkadarya.

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2. Materials and Methods

2.1. Study Area and Environmental Settings

The research focused on the irrigated agricultural zones of Kasbi district (characterized by clayey-loam meadow alluvial soils) and Nishan district (characterized by sandy-loam grey-brown soils). The regional climate is characterized by an average annual temperature of 16.2°C and an annual rainfall of only 180–210 mm, concentrated mainly between November and April.

2.2. Sampling and Analytical Geochemical Methods

A total of 20 representative soil profiles were dug, and composite samples were collected at depths of 0–20 cm (rhizosphere/plow layer) and 20–40 cm (subsoil). The samples were air-dried, crushed, and passed through a 2-mm sieve. 

• Water Extract Analysis (1:5 ratio): Used to determine total soluble salts (Dry Residue), chloride anions (Cl^-) via Argentometric titration, and sulfate anions (SO_4^2-) via precipitation with barium chloride.

• Electrical Conductivity (EC_1:5): Measured using a calibrated digital EC meter.

• Soil Organic Matter (SOM): Determined using the Tyurin method (wet combustion with K_2Cr_2O_7 and H_2SO_4), followed by titration with Mohr’s salt.

• Soil pH: Evaluated in a 1:2.5 soil-water suspension using a glass electrode pH-meter.

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3. Results and Discussion

The laboratory geochemical data presents a clear picture of severe soil degradation and secondary salinization profiles in the studied districts (Table 1).

Table 1: Geochemical and Chemical Profile of Irrigated Soils in Kashkadarya Province

3.1. Chemical Typing of Salinization

The ratio of anions (Cl^- / SO_4^2-) is the primary geochemical index used to classify the type of soil salinity. 

• In the Kasbi district, the ratio is approximately $0.54$, which firmly categorizes the soils under the Sulfate-Chloride type of salinization. This indicates a highly toxic environment, as high chlorine ions inhibit the enzymatic activity of the soil and restrict the uptake of essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus by crops.

• In the Nishan district, the salinity is slightly lower but still harmful, displaying a Chloride-Sulfate chemistry with a dry residue of $0.58\%$ in the topsoil.

3.2. Humus Depletion and Ecological Imbalance

The soil organic matter (Humus) content in the plow layer (0–20 cm) of both districts is dangerously low, ranging between $0.68\%$ and $0.85\%$. Historically, the native soils of the Karshi Steppe maintained a humus baseline of $1.5\%–1.8\%$. 

This dramatic decline ($>50\%$ loss) is a direct consequence of:

1. Intensive tillage: Conventional deep plowing accelerates the exposure of organic compounds to microbial decomposition, leading to rapid carbon mineralization into CO_2.

2. Absence of Crop Rotation: The continuous rotation of cotton and wheat without alfalfa (bedapoya) or cover crops has depleted the natural nitrogen-carbon cycle.

3. High Salinity Stress: High salt levels restrict the growth of soil microbes, lowering the overall microbial biomass carbon and preventing the natural synthesis of humic substances.

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4. Advanced Ecological Mitigation Strategies

To restore the ecological health of Kashkadarya’s soils, a multi-tiered ecological approach must be implemented:

1. Chemical Amelioration (Gypsum Application): Since these soils exhibit high pH ($>8.3$) and sodium accumulation, applying phosphogypsum (CaSO_4 · 2H_2O) is necessary to replace toxic sodium ions (Na^+) on the soil clay exchange complex with calcium (Ca^2+), thereby improving soil structure and water permeability.

2. Phytoremediation with Halophytes: Cultivating deep-rooting halophytes like Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice) and Atriplex nitens helps lower the saline water table through biodrainage and removes toxic salts from the upper horizons.

3. Humus Restoration via Conservation Tillage: Transitioning to Minimum Tillage or No-Till systems, coupled with applying biochar and organic composts (15–20 tons/ha), will sequester carbon and rebuild the degraded humus layer.

5. Conclusion

The agricultural lands of Kasbi and Nishan districts in the Kashkadarya Province are undergoing profound ecological stress. The dual pressure of sulfate-chloride secondary salinization and extreme humus depletion has crippled the soil’s natural productivity. Correcting this ecological trajectory requires an immediate transition from intensive conventional farming to modern, eco-friendly conservation agriculture and biological 

References 

1. **Gafurova, L. A., & Nabiyeva, G. M.(2020). Degradation of irrigated soils under the influence of anthropogenic factors in the southern regions of Uzbekistan. Journal of Soil Science and Agrochemistry, 74(3), 145-154.

2. Kuziev, R. K., & Sektimenko, V. E. (2009). The Soils of Uzbekistan: Genesis, Classification, and Ecological Status. Tashkent: Fan Publishing House, 256 p.

3. Pankova, E. I., & Konyushkova, M. V. (2013). Assessment of soil salinization in the irrigated lands of Central Asia using remote sensing and ground truth data. Arid Ecosystems, 3(4), 212-221.

4. Shirokova, Y. I., & Morozov, A. N. (2006). Salinization of irrigated lands in Uzbekistan and ways to improve the state of soils. Irrigation and Drainage, 55(s1), 53-62.

5. Ibrakhimov, M., Park, S. J., & Vlek, P. L. G. (2007). Temporal dynamics of groundwater table and salinity in the lower reaches of the Amu Darya River. Agricultural Water Management, 92(3), 115-126

Oʻktamova Sabrina Mahmud qizi is a prominent and highly intellectual young representative of modern Uzbek youth, distinguished by her thirst for knowledge, social activism, and ambitious goals for the future.

Born on March 24, 2007, in Karshi city, Kashkadarya region, into an intellectual family, Sabrina graduated from school with excellent grades. She gained admission to Karshi State University (QarDU) on a state grant, where she is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Ecology.

Despite her young age, Sabrina’s ability to fully capitalize on opportunities and achieve remarkable success is greatly supported by her parents, Islomov Mahmud and Geldiyeva Shahnoza. Her elder sister, Jasmina Makhmudovna, has been a key mentor and a significant source of inspiration in fostering Sabrina’s profound passion for knowledge and excellence.

Sabrina’s current achievements include:

• An active Eco-Volunteer and Social Volunteer.

• Regional winner of the Vociep project.

• Member of the “Children and Youth Support Movement” and a recipient of its special badge.

• An active member of the People’s Democratic Party.

• Recipient of over a hundred certificates from various educational and extracurricular programs.

• Participant in several international forums.

• An active participant and international certificate holder in the recent International Eco-Zakovat competition, recognized as a talented and active student and leader.

• An active member of the Kashkadarya “Golden Wing” Organization and the Youth Golden Wing initiative.

• Recipient of multiple Machine Learning (ML) grants.

Sabrina embodies a dynamic spirit, combining academic excellence with a strong commitment to social and environmental causes, making her a highly promising future leader and expert in the field of ecology.

TEAM ZOLOFT

“So, why are we watching this?” asked Alicia, filing her nails from her seat on the couch.

Zane, sitting next to her, pointed at the TV. “It’s World Cup soccer. Algeria versus Austria.”

Alicia looked at her man and frowned. “Soccer? You never watch that shit. Pass the remote; I think When Calls the Heart is on.”

Zane held on to the remote. “Hell, no! I’ve got a hundred bucks riding on Algeria. Besides, that snoozefest is in reruns now, anyway.”

“Algeria?” Alicia said, quizzically. “You couldn’t find Algeria with a Rand McNally Road Atlas and twelve bloodhounds. Why are you wasting our money like that?”

Zane took a breath. “Babe, I’m not wasting my money—”

Alicia brandished her nail file like a shiv. “Our money! You know my niece Ruby’s wedding is next month. And I am not dipping into my savings, again, to pay the Edison bill.”

Zane aimed the remote at the TV and pressed a button, raising the volume on the soccer match. “Don’t worry, I have an inside source. Austria’s got no game. The Algerian team’s a shoo-in to win, easily.”

Alicia used the point of the nail file to remove dirt from under her thumbnail. “They’d better win. Or you’d better go back to Algeria with them.”

The two sat silently, there in the front room, for a couple of minutes. Zane decided a change of subject was in order. 

“Babe,” he said, casually, “I forgot to mention it. . .I met this new guy at work today.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah. One of the apprentices. He’s no more than twenty-two years old.”

Alicia kept filing her nails. “Uh-huh.”

“Yeah. Believe it or not, his name is Prince.”

“Prince?”

“Right. And as soon as I met the kid, this wisecrack popped into my head. I wanted to tell him that Purple Rain is my favorite album. I swear, the words were perched on the tip of my tongue.”

“Uh-huh.”

“But I didn’t. I kept it to myself. I just smiled and shook his hand.”

Alicia, inspecting her fingernails, said nothing. 

Zane reached over and gently touched her arm. “That’s good, right? Aren’t you glad that my meds are working?”

Alicia used the edge of the nail file to push down her cuticles. “Yay, Team Zoloft,” she said. “Now, tell me—where did that hundred bucks come from?”

Egypt takes action to foster a cosmopolitan culture—a legacy of its millennia-old civilization.

Two significant updates have emerged from the Arab Republic of Egypt: one concerning the safeguarding of rights and freedoms within the country, and another regarding foreign policy, reaffirming Egypt’s full solidarity with the Kingdom of Bahrain in light of current regional developments.

A top priority for Egypt is the growth of a cosmopolitan culture and the continuous development of the arts—a beacon for all peoples. To this end, the government is deeply committed—both domestically and in its foreign policy—to initiatives that ensure justice, friendship, and maximum cooperation with nations considered to be staunch allies.

Tuesday, July 14, saw two major developments: Justice Minister Mahamoud El-Sherif offered his congratulations to the incoming President of the State Council, Mahamoud Abu El-Dahab, at the Princess Fawzia Palace; meanwhile, Presidential Spokesperson Ambassador Mohammed El-Shennawy announced that President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi would visit the King of Bahrain, His Majesty Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, following his visit to Qatar. During the meeting with His Majesty Hamad bin Isa, the President reiterated Egypt’s firm support for the security and stability of the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Meanwhile, in the Land of the Pharaohs, there is a surge in the number of tourists visiting the world’s largest archaeological museum dedicated to a single civilization: the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza. Concurrently, a special reception is scheduled for July 30 in San Francisco to celebrate the de Young Museum’s highly anticipated exhibition, “Treasures of the Pharaohs,” curated by Renée Dreyfus (George and Judy Marcus Distinguished Curator in Charge of Ancient Art).

Be among the first to marvel at the 130 exquisite works that exemplify the grandeur of the world of the Egyptian pharaohs, ranging from monumental granite statues to intricate gold jewelry, each highlighting the wealth and complexity of ancient Egyptian civilization. Spanning 3,000 years of history, the exhibition features objects that beautifully and poignantly represent the daily life and views of those who served the pharaohs, offering insight into Egyptian society, its beliefs, and its artistic achievements.

PROSPECTS FOR AUTOMATING FINANCIAL REPORTING BY INTEGRATING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE MODULES INTO 1C ACCOUNTING SYSTEMS

Ibroximova Hayitxon Mirzoxidjon qizi
2nd-year Student, Andijan State Technical Institute
Tel: +998 88 063 12 30
Email: ibroximovahayitxon@gamil.com

Abstract
The article analyzes the issues of automating accounting and financial reporting by integrating artificial intelligence modules into the 1C platform. The study highlights the prospects of intelligent data processing using neural networks, reducing the human factor, and developing digital infrastructure. The proposed approach allows for improving the accuracy of financial forecasting and optimizing the operational costs of enterprises.

Keywords: 1C: Accounting, artificial intelligence, neural networks, financial reporting, automation, cloud technologies, optimization.

1. Introduction
Today, the global economy is undergoing a period of rapid digital transformation. Within the framework of the “Digital Uzbekistan – 2030” strategy, approved by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the automation of the accounting and financial system has been designated as a priority task.
Traditional accounting methods are slow when processing large volumes of data (Big Data) and are prone to errors associated with the human factor. This necessitates the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) modules in this field.

Currently, approximately 90% of enterprises in our country use the “1C: Accounting” software. However, manual data entry in this system still requires significant time and resources. The integration of artificial intelligence and modern information technology (IT) is the most effective way to solve this problem.

The main purpose of this work is to analyze the prospects of automatic recognition of primary documents, accelerating the generation of financial reports, and improving the efficiency of corporate financial services by applying AI neural networks on the basis of the 1C platform. The article also covers the theoretical and practical foundations of transitioning to a “Smart Accounting” system through the development of digital infrastructure.

2. Methodology and Research Methods
This research work is dedicated to studying the methodological foundations of integrating the traditional accounting capabilities of the 1C platform with modern artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) modules. The methodology applied in the study consists of a multi-step comprehensive approach, including information systems architecture and methods of economic-mathematical modeling.

2.1. System Integration and Data Transmission
At the initial stage of the study, the mechanisms of data exchange between the 1C:Enterprise platform and external intelligent services were analyzed. The primary method chosen was connecting to cloud neural network services via REST API (Representational State Transfer) and SOAP protocols.
This part of the methodology involves modeling the processes of secure transmission of primary data from the 1C system (scanned copies, JSON objects) to an external server and receiving processed results (ready-made accounting entries) from there.

2.2. Image Recognition and Semantic Analysis
For automatic processing of accounting documents (invoices, payment orders, receipts), the convolutional neural networks — CNN (Convolutional Neural Networks) methodology was used. Within this method, a semantic analysis of the documents was conducted: the system analyzed not only the text in the document but also its context (for example, the spatial coordinates of key terms such as “Total”, “VAT”, “Supplier”) based on a detection algorithm.

2.3. Machine Learning Algorithms
For the automation of financial indicators, the “Supervised Learning” method was used. In this case, the training set consisted of the enterprise’s financial transactions over the last five years (Big Data):
Classification: Automatic distribution of newly received expense documents to the corresponding accounting accounts (e.g., 2010, 4410, 9420). Regression Analysis: Forecasting the cash flows of the enterprise for the upcoming period based on historical data.

2.4. Infrastructure Optimization and Verification
The study conducted a comparative analysis of the performance of cloud technologies (SaaS — Software as a Service) and local servers. A “hybrid infrastructure” method was recommended: confidential and strategic data are stored in a local database, while AI modules that require heavy computations are processed on cloud servers (Cloud Computing). This method allows for increasing the system’s throughput and balancing the server load (Load Balancing).
To verify the reliability of the research results, the benchmarking method was used. The speed and accuracy of data entered through traditional manual labor were mathematically and statistically compared with the results of the AI-integrated 1C system. The error rate and lead time were taken as the primary evaluation criteria.

3. Research Results and Analysis
The data obtained from the implementation of AI modules into the 1C platform within the research showed a radical increase in the efficiency of the enterprise’s accounting and financial services. The main results obtained can be characterized in the following areas:

Speed and Productivity: It has been proven that the process of intelligent document recognition (OCR) by AI modules and their automatic classification is significantly faster compared to the human factor. According to the experimental results, while entering 500 primary documents (invoices and waybills) into the 1C software using the traditional method required an average of 12–14 working hours, in the AI-integrated system this indicator was only 45 minutes. This represents a 94% reduction in operational time.

Accuracy Level: The error rate in generating accounting entries using machine learning algorithms was analyzed. Mechanical errors caused by fatigue or lack of attention in the traditional manual input method accounted for 5–8%, whereas when using AI algorithms, the accuracy of data recognition reached 99.2%.

Forecasting Efficiency: Using regression analysis and neural network models, the cash flows of the enterprise were forecasted. The system predicted the probability of clearing accounts receivable for the next 6 months with 92% accuracy. This result allowed the management to foresee the risk of working capital shortage 2 months in advance.

Infrastructure Performance: When studying the integration of cloud technologies and 1C, it was observed that the data processing power was 3.5 times higher compared to local servers. Centralized AI servers reduced the load on the enterprise’s internal servers, bringing the system’s uninterrupted performance coefficient (Uptime) to 99.9%.4.

Conclusion and Outlook
Based on the research and analysis of the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) modules with the 1C platform, the following general conclusions were drawn:

Increase in Labor Productivity: The introduction of neural networks into the 1C system fundamentally increases the productivity of the enterprise’s accounting department. In particular, it is proven that the time required for data entry is reduced by up to 10 times compared to the traditional method due to the intelligent processing of primary documents. This frees financial staff from monotonous routines and allows them to focus on high-value analytical tasks.

Minimization of the Human Factor: The system’s recognition of documents with above 99% accuracy increases the reliability of financial reporting, which in turn simplifies the processes of external auditing and tax control.

Economic Efficiency: The integration of cloud technologies (SaaS) opens up opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses to use high-tech AI analytical tools without the need to purchase expensive server equipment.

Strategic Planning: AI modules do not just record past data; they also predict the future financial status, cash flows, and expected tax burden of the enterprise with high accuracy. This enables management to foresee operational risks and make informed strategic decisions.

In conclusion, the integration of the “1C: Accounting” system with artificial intelligence solutions is not just a technical upgrade, but a transition to a qualitatively new, digital stage of enterprise management. In the future, the wide implementation of such systems will serve to increase the competitiveness of national enterprises in the global market.

METHODOLOGICAL FOUNDATIONS FOR DEVELOPING THE ABILITY TO CREATE NEW KNOWLEDGE IN THE PEDAGOGICAL PROCESS

Navbaxar Mahmudjanovna Karimova
Educator at Multidisciplinary Specialized Preschool Educational Institution No. 9, Gurlan District, Khorezm Region
Master’s Degree Student in Pedagogy at Asia International University

Dissertation Research Topic

“Methodological Foundations for Developing the Ability to Create New Knowledge in the Pedagogical Process”

Abstract

This article analyzes the theoretical and practical aspects of developing the ability of students and learners to create new knowledge within the modern educational system. The study highlights the role of creative thinking, research skills, and innovative approaches in the pedagogical process. Furthermore, the article systematically presents the main methodological principles, methods, and tools that contribute to the development of this ability.

Keywords: pedagogy, knowledge creation, creativity, research activity, innovative methods, critical thinking, competency-based approach.

Introduction

The twenty-first century is characterized by information technologies and globalization, where the ability to independently search for, analyze, and create new knowledge has become more important than merely acquiring ready-made information. Traditional educational models were predominantly reproductive in nature and required passive participation from learners. However, modern society demands specialists who not only possess existing knowledge but can also find original solutions in uncertain situations, generate new ideas, and apply them in practice. Therefore, developing the ability to create new knowledge in the pedagogical process is not only a didactic issue but also a socio-economic necessity.

The Concept of Knowledge Creation and Its Psychological and Pedagogical Essence

The ability to create new knowledge is the process through which an individual identifies previously unknown facts, patterns, or relationships, systematizes them, and applies them in practice to generate subjective or objective novelty. From a psychological perspective, this process is based on the integration of divergent thinking, intuition, and logical analysis.

From a pedagogical perspective, knowledge creation represents the highest level of learners’ cognitive activity. This process includes the following stages: identifying the problem, formulating hypotheses, collecting and analyzing data, testing through experimentation or modeling, and drawing conclusions. Within this process, the teacher’s role shifts from that of a controller to a facilitator and collaborative researcher.

Methodological Foundations and Principles

To develop the ability to create new knowledge, the following methodological principles should be followed:

1. Principle of Problem-Based Learning

The educational process should begin not with providing ready-made answers but with creating open-ended problem situations. The questions posed to learners should not have a single predetermined answer and should require the use of various sources to find solutions. Such situations stimulate curiosity and the desire for inquiry.

2. Principle of Subject-to-Subject Relationships

The traditional vertical relationship between teacher and learner should be transformed into horizontal cooperation. Through dialogue, discussions, debates, and collaborative projects, learners develop the ability to express their ideas freely and critically evaluate the ideas of others.

3. Principle of an Integrated Approach

New knowledge often emerges at the intersection of disciplines. Therefore, organizing interdisciplinary lessons and projects that connect natural sciences, exact sciences, and humanities is highly effective. For example, solving environmental problems requires the integration of knowledge from biology, chemistry, economics, and law.

4. Principle of Individualization and Differentiation

Each learner possesses unique cognitive styles, interests, and creative potential. The educational process should provide tasks and learning paths tailored to individual needs and strengths, allowing learners to realize their full potential.

Methods and Technologies for Developing Knowledge Creation Skills

To implement the above principles, the following modern pedagogical technologies are recommended:

Research Activity Method

In this approach, learners conduct small-scale scientific research projects. They select topics, review literature, collect empirical data, and present their findings. This process develops a culture of scientific thinking.

Project-Based Learning (PBL)

Through long-term projects, learners create new products, models, or strategies to solve real-life problems. Both the final result and the process itself are evaluated.

Design Thinking

This human-centered approach consists of empathy, problem definition, idea generation, prototyping, and testing. Design thinking helps learners discover innovative solutions without fear of making mistakes through iterative processes.

Case Study Method

By analyzing complex real-life situations, learners examine problems in depth and justify their decisions. This method develops analytical thinking and decision-making skills.

TRIZ Elements (Theory of Inventive Problem Solving)

The use of specialized algorithms to overcome technical and creative contradictions enhances learners’ systematic creative thinking abilities.

Transformation of the Assessment System

Traditional grading systems cannot fully reflect the process of creating new knowledge. Therefore, formative assessment should become a priority. Assessment criteria should include originality of ideas, validity of solutions, quality of source utilization, teamwork skills, and presentation abilities. The portfolio method can be used to monitor learners’ developmental progress over time.

Conclusion

Developing the ability to create new knowledge in the pedagogical process is a complex and multifaceted task. It requires not only changes in teaching methodology but also fundamental reforms in the educational environment, the teacher’s role, and assessment systems. Methodological foundations should be based on problem situations, collaboration, integration, and individualized approaches. Modern methods, particularly research activities and project-based learning, play a decisive role in transforming learners from passive recipients of information into active creators of knowledge. In the future, enriching this field with digital technologies and artificial intelligence capabilities will further increase pedagogical effectiveness.

References

1. Vygotsky, L. S. Thinking and Speech. Tashkent: O‘qituvchi Publishing House, 2020.
2. G‘ulomov, S. G. Pedagogical Technologies and Their Application Methodology. Tashkent: Fan va Texnologiya Publishing House, 2021.
3. Sawyer, R. K. The Cambridge Handbook of the Learning Sciences. Cambridge University Press, 2014.
4. Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On Education.” Tashkent, 2020.
5. Sternberg, R. J. Creativity: From Potential to Realization. American Psychological Association, 2019.

Navbaxar Mahmudjanovna Karimova was born on March 25, 1984, in Gurlan district of Khorezm region, Uzbekistan, into an educated family.

From 1990 to 1998, she studied at Secondary School No. 1 in Gurlan district. Between 1998 and 2001, she continued her education at Gymnasium No. 6 in Gurlan district and successfully graduated with excellent academic results.

From 2001 to 2003, she studied Nursing at the Electromedical Technical College in Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekistan, and graduated with honors and outstanding academic achievements.

From 2020 to 2025, she successfully completed her Bachelor’s degree in Preschool Education at Urgench State University.

In 2026, she successfully completed a professional retraining course in Defectology (Special Education) at Nizami Tashkent State Pedagogical National University.

Currently, she works as a Defectologist (Special Education Teacher) at the Multidisciplinary Specialized Preschool Educational Institution No. 9 in Gurlan district, Khorezm region, which operates under the National Agency for Social Protection under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

She is fluent in both Russian and Turkish languages. In addition, she is currently a Master’s student in the field of Pedagogy at Asia International University.

In 2023, she was awarded the badge “Dedicated Professional of Her Profession”.

In 2024, she received the badge “Best Scientific Researcher of the Year”.

In 2025, she was awarded the badge “Excellent Worker in Preschool and School Education”.

She is the author of the methodological guidebook titled “Inclusive Education in Preschool Educational Institutions.”

She has also published books entitled “My Goals,” “Dear Child, For You,” and “Young Explorers.”

Many of her scientific articles have been published in international newspapers and journals.

Her article titled “STEAM Technologies in Preschool Educational Institutions” was published in the book “Leading Women of Uzbekistan” in Türkiye. More than 200 of her articles have been published on international platforms and websites.