bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La educación empresarial en gestión de operaciones integrada al desarrollo de emprendimientos innovadores
Authors: Manzano Coello Edgar Vinicio , Padilla Martínez Mario Patricio
Published: October 2020

Se entiende como educación empresarial al perfeccionamiento de las facultades mentales de cada individuo, cabe indicar que, para crear, desarrollar e innovar, en primer lugar, su preparación profesional genera personas con el suficiente carácter de decisión y determinación objetiva, basándose siempre en la formación tecnológica e intelectual, enfocándolas en la toma de decisiones que son necesarias a través de la vida laboral.

En la actualidad la humanidad es partícipe de un ambiente competitivo, en el que no solo basta con terminar una carrera de tercer nivel sino más bien optar por un posgrado por ende la comunidad estudiantil se ve forzada a continuar con su capacitación académica en universidades del Ecuador mismas que han creado posgrados con fines de profesionalización a fin de contribuir al desarrollo social, humano y tecnológico.

Existen ofertas de estudios con los enfoques necesarios que impulsen el crecimiento y la evolución personal con enfoques a la gestión de operaciones impulsando la creación, desarrollo y organización de la función de producción con el objetivo de alcanzar ventajas competitivas. La Universidad tiene por finalidad de desarrollar el pensamiento objetivo de sus educandos logrando de esta manera satisfacer las necesidades del entorno nacional, estructurando la educación superior, realizándose previamente un análisis de mercado, donde se evalúa el crecimiento significativo de las empresas entre los años 2012 y 2016 siendo de gran importancia el personal que labora en dichas compañías y profesionales capacitados para ejercer puestos cubriendo dicha competencia laboral.

En este contexto, las universidades desempeñan un papel importante en la creación de entornos fértiles y de gran densidad de conocimientos para apoyar la exploración y explotación de ideas innovadoras y emprendimientos, donde los gobiernos han creado subvenciones para promover la innovación empresarial a través de asociaciones universitarias obligatorias. Basándose en estas ideas, el propósito de esta investigación documental es analizar el papel de las universidades en la educación empresarial en gestión de operaciones integrada al desarrollo de nuevos emprendimientos innovadores con relación a la calidad del profesional.
Morphology and Molecular Identification of Echinostoma revolutum and Echinostoma macrorchis in Freshwater Snails and Experimental Hamsters in Upper Northern Thailand
Authors: Butboonchoo Preeyaporn , Wongsawad Chalobol , Wongsawad Pheravut , Chai Jong-Yil
Published: October 2020

Echinostome metacercariae were investigated in freshwater snails from 26 districts in 7 provinces of upper northern Thailand. The species identification was carried out based on the morphologies of the metacercariae and adult flukes harvested from experimental hamsters, and on nucleotide sequences of internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide dehydrogenase subunit 1 (nad1) genes. Twenty-four out of 26 districts were found to be infected with echinostome metacercariae in freshwater snails with the prevalence of 40.4%. The metacercariae were found in all 6 species of snails, including Filopaludina martensi martensi (21.9%), Filopaludina doliaris (50.8%), F. sumatrensis polygramma (61.3%), Bithynia siamensis siamensis (14.5%), Bithynia pulchella (38.0%), and Anenthome helena (4.9%). The echinostome metacercariae found in these snails were identified as Echinostoma revolutum (37-collar-spined) and Echinostoma macrorchis (45-collar-spined) morphologically and molecularly. The 2-week-old adult flukes of E. revolutum revealed unique features of the cirrus sac extending to middle of the ventral sucker and smooth testes. E. macrorchis adults revealed the cirrus sac close to the right lateral margin of the ventral sucker and 2 large and elliptical testes with slight indentations and pointed posterior end of the posterior testis. The ITS2 and nad1 sequences confirmed the species identification of E. revolutum, and the sequences of E. macrorchis have been deposited for the first time in Gen-Bank. The presence of the life cycle of E. macrorchis is a new record in Thailand and the snail F. doliaris as their second intermediate host seems to be new among the literature.
Reduction of Reinfection Rates with Opisthorchis viverrini through a Three-Year Management Program in Endemic Areas of Northeastern Thailand
Authors: Prakobwong Suksanti , Suwannatrai Kulwadee
Published: October 2020

To clarify the reinfection profile associated with risk factors of opisthorchiasis, we conducted an epidemiological study on the chemotherapeutic effects on reinfection with O. viverrini in the endemic areas of Northeastern Thailand for 3 years. A total of 3,674 fecal samples were collected from participants in villages of 5 provinces. They were examined microscopically using a modified technique of formalin ethyl-acetate concentration. Egg-positive residents were reexamined year (2018) by year (2019) after treatment with a single dose (40 mg/kg) of praziquantel. Health education was provided to the participants yearly. The egg-positive rate of O. viverrini was 14.3%, and was highest (22.2%) in the 20-30 year-old group in 2017. The egg positive rate was 15.3% in dogs and 11.4% cats. Human reinfection rate was 15.5% and 6.3% in next 2 years, and was highest (23.2%) among the fishermen. Relative risk factors of reinfection were significantly higher for males, over 40-year-old age, or working as fishermen or farmers, and eating uncooked fish within the preceding year. A significant difference resulting from a health education program was observed in the third year. Therefore, health education and sustainable surveillance for opisthorchiasis should be maintained to decrease the risk of reinfection.
Comparative Microbiome Analysis of Three Species of Laboratory-Reared Periplaneta Cockroaches
Authors: Lee Seogwon , Kim Ju Yeong , Yi Myung-hee , Lee In-Yong , Lee Won-Ja , Moon Hye Su , Yong Dongeun , Yong Tai-Soon
Published: October 2020

Cockroaches inhabit various habitats, which will influence their microbiome. Although the microbiome can be influenced by the diet and environmental factors, it can also differ between species. Therefore, we conducted 16S rDNAtargeted high-throughput sequencing to evaluate the overall bacterial composition of the microbiomes of 3 cockroach species, Periplaneta americana, P. japonica, and P. fuliginosa, raised in laboratory for several generations under the same conditions. The experiments were conducted using male adult cockroaches. The number of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) was not significantly different among the 3 species. With regard to the Shannon and Pielou indexes, higher microbiome values were noted in P. americana than in P. japonica and P. fuliginosa. Microbiome composition was also evaluated, with endosymbionts accounting for over half of all OTUs in P. japonica and P. fuliginosa. Beta diversity analysis further showed that P. japonica and P. fuliginosa had similar microbiome composition, which differed from that of P. americana. However, we also identified that P. japonica and P. fuliginosa host distinct OTUs. Thus, although microbiome compositions may vary based on multiple conditions, it is possible to identify distinct microbiome compositions among different Periplaneta cockroach species, even when the individuals are reared under the same conditions.
RESEARCH INTO MOTION PERFORMANCE CHANGES OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN OVER A PERIOD OF 20 YEARS
Authors: HORVÁTH RUDOLF , PETRIKÁN PETER , RUŽBARSKÁ INGRID
Published: October 2020

This research tested 950 primary school pupils in the age from 7 to 10 years. All of them attended primary schools in East Slovakia at the time of testing. We employed the Eurofit test and compared our results to those provided in Turek (1999). The Eurofit test was used for the sake of compatibility with Turek’s research. Based on the measured and computed data we identify the trend in motion performance and somatic parameters. The data collected in 2019 is evaluated by standard statistical methods. It is compared to Turek’s (1999) data by means of the parametric one sample t–test. The results indicate worse motion performance in primary school pupils compared to the 1999 measurements.
UJI KEBERFUNGSIAN DIFERENSIAL RASCH PADA SKALA PERSEPSI TERHADAP POLITIK IDENTITAS KELAS MENENGAH MUSLIM
Authors: Purwantini Lucky , Rofieq Ainur
Published: October 2020

The emergence of the 411 and 212 Defend Islamic Action movements in the election for the Governor of DKI Jakarta indicates the rise of identity politics. Interestingly, all of these movements are dominated by the Muslim middle class who are politically apolitical, conservative on religious values, but also part of a consumerist society, so the question of this research is how the perception of the Muslim middle class towards identity politics is associated with the emergence of the Action movement. Defend Islam 411 and 212. To understand the formation of identity politics, according to Buchari there are three ways, namely: legitimate identity, resistant identity, and project identity. The data was collected using a scale of perceptions of identity politics in the Muslim middle class and analyzed using the Rasch model. The Differential Functioning Test (DIF) is used to detect bias in items. The DIF results show that 9 items on the perception politics of identity scale have no bias towards both men and women. In addition, the DIF results also show that the 9 items of the perception scale on identity politics also do not have a bias either on subjects who are members of religious organizations or who are not members of religious organizations.
ANALISIS FAKTOR-FAKTOR YANG MEMPENGARUHI REALISASI PEMBIAYAAN KPR SYARIAH (Studi Pada BTN Syariah Bekasi)
Authors: Robiatul Adawiyah Nurul Aulia , Widyananto Arief
Published: October 2020

This study aims to determine what factors can affect the realization of Sharia KPR financing at BTN Syariah Bekasi. The variables used in this study consist of financing period, fixed margin and financing frequency. This research is quantitative in nature using a questionnaire as a data collection tool. The population in this study were all customers who carried out KPR Syariah financing at BTN Syariah Bekasi with a sample size of 100 customers. Sampling using probability sampling techniques. The data analysis technique used is the classic assumption test, multiple linear regression analysis, the coefficient of determination, the t test and the F test. While the data processing in this study used the SPSS 25 program. From the hypothesis test using the t test, it is found that the variable period of financing has a positive but insignificant effect, while the variable margin and frequency of financing have a positive and significant effect on the realization of Islamic mortgage financing Based on the F test (simultaneous), the results show that the variable period of financing, fixed margins and frequency of financing jointly affect the realization of Sharia KPR financing.
ANALISIS KUALITAS LAYANAN FRONTLINER TERHDAP PERTUMBUHAN DANA PIHAK KETIGA STUDI PADA PT BANK SYARIAH MANDIRI CABANG BEKASI PONDOK GEDE
Authors: Gumilang Haryo , Putra Purnama
Published: October 2020

The main activity of the bank is the provision of services. Banks as financial institutions engaged in services, must be able to provide the best service (Service Excellence) in order to win competition in increasingly competitive situations. Frontliners are officers who are in front of the banking hall that face directly to customers. This study aims to analyze how much influence the quality of service Frontliner (Customer Service, Teller, Security) on the growth of third party funds. In this study using primary and secondary data obtained from the official website of Bank Syariah Mandiri and questionnaires distributed to respondents. The method used is a quantitative method.

The results of this study show partially that the quality of frontline service (Customer Service, Teller, Security) has a positive effect on third party funds. While simultaneously the quality of Customer Service services, Teller service quality, security service quality has a significant positive effect on the growth of third party funds. Future research is expected to expand the scope of research or compare variables and other factors.
ANALISIS FRAMING PEMBERITAAN KASUS HARUN MASIKU PADA MAJALAH TEMPO
Authors: Adiyanto Wiwid , Nuzuli Ahmad Khairul
Published: October 2020

AbstrakPenelitian ini merupakan  kajian teks dengan analisis framing Robert N Entman dengan Teori Agenda Setting untuk menggambarkan  proses seleksi dan realitas media.  Objek  penelitian  ini  adalah  laporan  utama  majalah  Tempo  edisi  20-26 Januari  2020  terkait  kasus  yang  melibatkan  Harun  Masiku.  Hasil  peneitian  ini memperlihatkan Tempo cenderung mengemas berita yang menyorot pemerintah tidak serius dalam pemberantasan korupsi, kolusi, dan nepotisme (KKN) di Indonesia.  Tempo menyikapi  kasus suap yang menyorot Harun Masiku  sebagai permasalahan   kekuasaan   dari  partai  PDIP   yang  merambah   pada  beberapa institusi terkait. Harun Masiku dilihat hanya sebagai salah satu aktor kekuasaan yang   sebenarnya   ada   pada   kekuasaan   terstruktur   yang   saling   berkaitan, termasuk kaitannya dengan presiden dan DPR. Tempo memposisikan KPK secara institusi menjadi korban dari kekuasaan luar yang masuk dalam institusi KPK yang seharusnya  independen.  Pada  akhirnya  Tempo  menyorot  rekomendasi   agar kasus Harun Masiku diusut tuntas, termasuk  penindakan  pada aktor lain yang terkait.  Tempo  melihat  kekuasaan  tersebut  sebagai  strategi  yang  dirancang secara sistematis yang dimulai dari perubahan Undang-Undang terkait KPK yang justru melemahkan KPK.Kata Kunci: Harun Masiku, PDIP, KPK, Tempo, Framing AbstractThis  research  is  a  text  study  with  Robert  N  Entman's  framing  analysis  with Agenda Setting theory to describe the selection process and media  reality. The object of this research  is the main report of the 20-26 January 2020 edition of Tempo magazine regarding the case involving Harun Masiku. The results of this research show that Tempo tends to publish news that highlights that the government is not serious in eradicating corruption, collusion and nepotism (KKN) in Indonesia. Tempo is addressing the bribery case that highlighted Harun Masiku as a problem of power from the PDIP party which has penetrated several related institutions. Harun Masiku is seen only as one of those power actors who actually have structured powers that are interrelated, including those with the president and the DPR. Tempo has positioned the Corruption Eradication Commission as an institution  as a victim  of outside  powers  that  enter the KPK institution,  which should have been independent. In the end, Tempo highlighted a recommendation that the Harun Masiku case be thoroughly investigated, including the prosecution of  other  related  actors.  Tempo  sees  this  power  as  a  systematically  designed strategy   that   starts   with  the  amendment   of  the  Law  on   the  Corruption Eradication Commission which actually weakens the KPK.Keywords: Harun Masiku, PDIP, KPK, Tempo, Framing
FENOMENA DALAM BERITA COVID-19
Authors: Anggarini Shella
Published: October 2020

AbstrakTujuan dari penelitian ini  mendeskripsikan cara individu melakukan pemrosesan informasi dan menemukan  makna kehadiran  fenomena covid-19. Penelitian ini menggunakan dua tradisi, yaitu tradisi sibernetika dan fenomenologi. Perspektif Elaboration Likelihood Theory, menjelaskan berbagai cara individu dalam mengevaluasi   sejumlah   informasi tentang   Covid-19   yang   diakses   individu. Metode yang digunakan adalah fenomenologi  dengan melakukan pengumpulan data melalui indepth interview terhadap empat orang informan. Hasilnya memperlihatkan  bahwa para individu selalu terhubung dengan sejumlah media massa seperti radio, koran, majalah, televisi, media luar ruang (baliho dan billboard), serta internet untuk mengakses beragam informasi sehari-hari. Media internet cenderung menjadi media yang dominan dipilih dan digunakan, karena lebih bersifat  universal-archive,  sehingga  informasinya  dapat  diakses  sewaktu- waktu. Berita atau informasi  tentang  Covid-19  diperoleh dari berbagai  saluran informasi  yang  digunakan  oleh  masing-masing  individu.  Para  informan memberikan  penilaian  secara  beragam  mengenai  fenomena  Covid-19,  berita Covid-19, dan upaya pemerintah dalam mengatasi pandemi Covid-19. Kata Kunci : Covid-19, Elaboration Likelihood Theory, Fenomenologi, Sibernetika, VirusAbstractThe purpose  of this qualitative  research  is to describe  how individuals  process information on the Covid-19 virus and find the meaning of the presence of the Covid-19 phenomenon. This research uses two traditions, namely cybernetics and phenomenology.   The  Elaboration  Likelihood  Theory  perspective,  explains  the various  ways  individuals  evaluate   a  number   of  Covid-19   virus  information accessed by individuals. The method used is phenomenology with data collection with indepth interview instruments from four informants. The results of this study show that individuals are always connected to a number of mass media such as radio, newspapers, magazines, television, outdoor media (billboards), and the internet to access a variety of daily information. Internet media tends to be the dominant media chosen and used, because it is more universal-archive, so that information can beaccessed at any time. News or information about the Covid-19  is  obtained  from various  information   channels  used  by  each  individual. Informants provide a diverse assessment of the Covid-19 phenomenon,  news of the Covid-19, and government efforts to overcome the Covid-19 pandemic.Keywords     :     Covid-19, Cybernetics, Elaboration Likelihood  Theory, Phenomenology, Virus
Pulmonary function after COVID-19 in early convalescence phase
Authors: Savushkina O. I. , Cherniak A. V. , Kryukov E. V. , Kulagina I. Ts. , Samsonova M. V. , Kalmanova E. N. , Zykov K. A.
Published: October 2020

Pulmonary function after COVID-19 in early convalescence phase. The aim of the study is to investigate the influence of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on pulmonary function in early convalescence phase.

Materials and methods. The study included 44 patients (35 male) after COVID-19 without concomitant bronchopulmonary pathology, with a median age of 47.5 years. All patients underwent standard pulmonary function tests (PFTs): spirometry, body plethysmography, diffusion test. Besides, dyspnea on the mMRC scale was assessed, oxygen saturation level (SpO2 ) was measured. Depending on degree of lung damage determined using high-resolution computed tomography (CT), the patients were divided into 2 groups: group 1 (22 patients) — CT 1 and CT 2, group 2 (22 patients) — CT 3 and CT 4.

Results. The medians of standard PFTs parameters were in normal values. However, there were statistically significant differences between groups: VC, FVC, FEV1 and TLC were lower in second group. Diffusing capacity was reduced in 52% of patients. Statistical significant correlations were established between lung damage by CT and the parameters of VC, FVC, FEV1 , TLC, IC and DLCO.

Conclusion. The degree of functional disorders of lungs depended on the extent of abnormal CT. Impaired diffusing capacity were detected in more than half of the COVID-19 patients in early convalescence phase.
Does the Organ-Based N Dilution Curve Improve the Predictions of N Status in Winter Wheat?
Authors: Zhang Ke , Wang Xue , Wang Xiaoling , Tahir Ata-Ul-Karim Syed , Tian Yongchao , Zhu Yan , Cao Weixing , Liu Xiaojun
Published: October 2020

Accurately summarizing Nitrogen (N) content as a prelude to optimal N fertilizer application is complicated during the vegetative growth period of all the crop species studied. The critical nitrogen (N) concentration (Nc) dilution curve is a stable diagnostic indicator, which performs plant critical N concentration trends as crop grows. This study developed efficient technologies for different organ-based (plant dry matters (PDM), leaf DM (LDM), stem DM (SDM), and leaf area index (LAI)) estimation of Nc curves to enrich the practical applications of precision N management strategies. Four winter wheat cultivars were planted with 10 different N treatments in Jiangsu province of eastern China. Results showed the SDM-based curve had a better performance than the PDM-based curve in N nutrition index (NNI) estimation, accumulated N deficit (AND) calculation, and N requirement (NR) determination. The regression coefficients ‘a’ and ‘b’ varied among the four critical N dilution models: Nc = 3.61 × LDM–0.19, R2 = 0.77; Nc = 2.50 × SDM–0.44, R2 = 0.89; Nc = 4.16 × PDM–0.41, R2 = 0.87; and Nc = 3.82 × LAI–0.36, R2 = 0.81. In later growth periods, the SDM-based curve was found to be a feasible indicator for calculating NNI, AND, and NR, relative to curves based on the other indicators. Meanwhile, the lower LAI-based curve coefficient variation values stated that leaf-related indicators were also a good choice for developing the N curve with high efficiency as compared to other biomass-based approaches. The SDM-based curve was the more reliable predictor of relative yield because of its low relative root mean square error in most of the growth stages. The curves developed in this study will provide diverse choices of indicators for establishing an integrated procedure of diagnosing wheat N status, and improving the accuracy and efficiency of wheat N fertilizer management.
Effect of High Tunnel Coverings on Antioxidants of Breaker and Light Red Tomatoes at Harvest and during Ripening
Authors: Gude Kelly M. , Rajashekar Channa B. , Cunningham Brianna , Kang Qing , Wang Weiqun , Lee Myungjin , Rivard Cary L. , Pliakoni Eleni D.
Published: October 2020

(1) Background: We assessed the impact of high tunnel coverings and harvest maturity (breaker and light red) on antioxidant capacity, ascorbic acid (AsA), lycopene, β–carotene, and phenolic compound (flavonoid and phenolic acid) accumulation in tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) at harvest and postharvest. (2) Methods: The two-year study in Olathe, KS, included six different coverings: a standard polyethylene (standard poly), diffuse poly (diffuse), clear poly (clear), UV-A/UV-B blocking poly (block), 55% shade cloth + standard poly (shade), and removal of standard poly two weeks prior to harvest (movable). (3) Results: Antioxidant capacity increased in fruit grown under the clear covering, compared to the shade covering (p < 0.05); similarly, AsA accumulation increased under the standard and clear coverings, relative to the movable and shade coverings (p < 0.001). Postharvest, at the point of consumption (POC), rutin increased in fruit harvested at light red stage versus breaker stage (p < 0.001), and chlorogenic acid increased in light red harvested fruit by 60% under movable, 55% under shade, and 43% under block covering than breaker harvested fruit (p < 0.01). (4) Conclusions: Based on these results, we conclude that both high tunnel covering and postharvest maturation alter antioxidant capacity, AsA, lycopene, and phenolic compound accumulation profiles by the POC.
Feature Extraction for Cocoa Bean Digital Image Classification Prediction for Smart Farming Application
Authors: Adhitya Yudhi , Prakosa Setya Widyawan , Köppen Mario , Leu Jenq-Shiou
Published: October 2020

The implementation of Industry 4.0 emphasizes the capability and competitiveness in agriculture application, which is the essential framework of a country’s economy that procures raw materials and resources. Human workers currently employ the traditional assessment method and classification of cocoa beans, which requires a significant amount of time. Advanced agricultural development and procedural operations differ significantly from those of several decades earlier, principally because of technological developments, including sensors, devices, appliances, and information technology. Artificial intelligence, as one of the foremost techniques that revitalized the implementation of Industry 4.0, has extraordinary potential and prospective applications. This study demonstrated a methodology for textural feature analysis on digital images of cocoa beans. The co-occurrence matrix features of the gray level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM) were compared with the convolutional neural network (CNN) method for the feature extraction method. In addition, we applied several classifiers for conclusive assessment and classification to obtain an accuracy performance analysis. Our results showed that using the GLCM texture feature extraction can contribute more reliable results than using CNN feature extraction from the final classification. Our method was implemented through on-site preprocessing within a low-performance computational device. It also helped to foster the use of modern Internet of Things (IoT) technologies among farmers and to increase the security of the food supply chain as a whole.
Weather-Based Neural Network, Stepwise Linear and Sparse Regression Approach for Rabi Sorghum Yield Forecasting of Karnataka, India
Authors: Sridhara Shankarappa , Ramesh Nandini , Gopakkali Pradeep , Das Bappa , Venkatappa Soumya , Sanjivaiah Shivaramu , Kumar Singh Kamalesh , Singh Priyanka , El-Ansary Diaa , Mahmoud Eman , Elansary Hosam
Published: October 2020

Sorghum is an important dual-purpose crop of India grown for food and fodder. Prevailing weather conditions during the crop growth period determine the yield of sorghum. Hence, the crop yield forecasting models based on weather parameters will be an appropriate option for policymakers and researchers to develop sustainable cropping strategies. In the present study, six multivariate weather-based models viz., least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), elastic net (ENET), principal component analysis (PCA) in combination with stepwise multiple linear regression (SMLR), artificial neural network (ANN) alone and in combination with PCA and ridge regression model are examined by fixing 90% of the data for calibration and remaining dataset for validation to forecast rabi sorghum yield for different districts of Karnataka. The R2 and root mean square error (RMSE) during calibration ranged between 0.42 to 0.98 and 30.48 to 304.17 kg ha−1, respectively, without actual evapotranspiration (AET) whereas, these evaluation parameters varied from 0.38 to 0.99 and 19.84 to 308.79 kg ha−1, respectively with AET inclusion. During validation, the RMSE and nRMSE (normalized root mean square error) varied between 88.99 to 1265.03 kg ha−1 and 4.49 to 96.84%, respectively without AET and including AET as one of the weather variable RMSE and nRMSE were 63.48 to 1172.01 kg ha−1 and 4.16 to 92.56%, respectively. The performance of six multivariate models revealed that LASSO was the best model followed by ENET compared to PCA_SMLR, ANN, PCA_ANN and ridge regression models because of reduced overfitting through penalisation of regression coefficient. Thus, it can be concluded that LASSO and ENET weather-based models can be effectively utilized for the district level forecast of sorghum yield.
The Prospect of Bentazone-Tolerant Soybean for Conventional Cultivation
Authors: Ali Liakat , Jo Hyun , Song Jong Tae , Lee Jeong-Dong
Published: October 2020

Soybean is one of the most important crops widely used as food, feed, and industrial products. Weeds compete with the crops for light, nutrients, water, space, and other growth requirements, causing an average yield reduction of 37% in soybean. Bentazone is an herbicide that selectively kills broadleaf weeds by inhibiting photosynthesis. It is widespread in soybean-cultivating areas including genetically modified organism (GMO) and GMO-free regions all around the world. This herbicide carries a double-edged sword since it can also incur damage to crops upon application. The challenge, therefore, lies in the deliberate selection of bentazone-tolerant cultivars. We systematically analyzed several factors that affect the metabolism of bentazone in soybean, such as phenotypic and genotypic differences among soybean accessions, the time and method of application, the absorption and metabolism of bentazone in soybean, and the effects of effective application and cultivar selection on yield and crop injury. Furthermore, we recommend that further studies should be done in aid of discovering more tolerant soybean cultivars. We hope that our review will help farmers and soybean producers, as well as geneticists, in developing bentazone-tolerant soybean cultivars to improve the global yield of soybean crops as a response to the ever-dynamic food demand across the globe.
Ayahuasca Beverages: Phytochemical Analysis and Biological Properties
Authors: Gonçalves Joana , Luís Ângelo , Gradillas Ana , García Antonia , Restolho José , Fernández Nicolás , Domingues Fernanda , Gallardo Eugenia , Duarte Ana Paula
Published: October 2020

Ayahuasca is a psychoactive beverage, originally consumed by indigenous Amazon tribes, of which consumption has been increasing worldwide. The aim of this study was to evaluate the phytochemical profile, as well as the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of decoctions of four individual plants, a commercial mixture and four mixtures of two individual plants used in the Ayahuasca preparation. For this purpose, a phytochemical characterization was performed, determining the content of flavonoids, total phenolic compounds, and analyzing the phenolic profile. Besides, 48 secondary metabolites were investigated by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q/TOF-MS) and their concentration estimated with real standards when present. The antioxidant activity was evaluated by both the β-carotene bleaching test and DPPH free radical scavenging assay, and the anti-inflammatory activity was determined by a protein denaturation method. Finally, the antimicrobial properties were evaluated using the disc diffusion assay, resazurin microtiter method, anti-quorum sensing and anti-biofilm activity assays. The obtained results showed that, in general, the samples have a high content of phenolic compounds and flavonoids with noticeable differences, reflecting on remarkable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Significant antimicrobial properties were also observed, with emphasis on the effect of B. caapi and P. harmala on planktonic and biofilm cells of A. baumannii, inhibiting both the biofilm formation and the production of violacein pigment.
Phage Diversity for Research and Application
Authors: Rohde Christine , Wittmann Johannes
Published: October 2020

Bacteriophages (in short, phages) are viruses that specifically recognize and infect bacteria; they are the most abundant forms of life in the biosphere outnumbering bacteria by an estimated factor of one order of magnitude [...]
A Pilot Study in Sweden on Efficacy of Benzylpenicillin, Oxytetracycline, and Florfenicol in Treatment of Acute Undifferentiated Respiratory Disease in Calves
Authors: Welling Virpi , Lundeheim Nils , Bengtsson Björn
Published: October 2020

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is a major indication for antibiotic treatment of cattle worldwide and some of the antibiotics used belong to classes of highest priority among those listed by WHO as critically important for human medicine. To preserve the efficacy of “newer” antibiotics, it has been suggested that “older” drugs should be revisited and used when possible. In this pilot study, we evaluated the efficacy of benzylpenicillin (PEN), oxytetracycline (OTC), and florfenicol (FLO) for treatment of naturally occurring BRD on two farms raising calves for slaughter. Farm personnel selected calves for enrolment, assigned calves to one of the three regimens in a systematically random manner, treated the calves, and registered the results. Overall, 117 calves were enrolled in the study. Nineteen calves relapsed in BRD before slaughter and were retreated (16.2%) and three died (2.6%). For PEN, treatment response rates after 30 days, 60 days, and until slaughter were 90.2%, 87.8%, and 80.5%, respectively; for OTC, 90.0%, 85.0%, and 85.0%, respectively; and for FLO, 86.1%, 83.3%, and 77.8%, respectively. There were no statistically significant differences in relapse, mortality, or response rates between the three treatment regimens. This indicates that PEN, OTC, and FLO were equally effective for treatment of BRD but the results need to be confirmed in a more elaborate study with a higher statistical power. The findings support the current recommendations from the Swedish Veterinary Association and the Medical Products Agency to use benzylpenicillin as a first line antibiotic for treatment of calves with undifferentiated respiratory disease in Sweden. Due to differences in the panorama of infectious agents and presence of acquired antibiotic resistance, the findings might not be applicable in other geographical areas.
Auranofin Attenuates Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease by Suppressing Lipid Accumulation and NLRP3 Inflammasome-Mediated Hepatic Inflammation In Vivo and In Vitro
Authors: Hwangbo Hyun , Kim Min Yeong , Ji Seon Yeong , Kim So Young , Lee Hyesook , Kim Gi-Young , Park Cheol , Keum Young-Sam , Hong Su Hyun , Cheong Jaehun , Choi Yung Hyun
Published: October 2020

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) causes liver dysfunction and is associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes. Chronic inflammation is associated not only with the development of NAFLD, but also with hepatic diseases, including steatohepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Auranofin is a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis and has recently been reported to have potential effects against a variety of diseases, including inflammation, cancer, and viral infection. In this study, auranofin may be considered as a new treatment for the management of metabolic syndrome, as well as in the treatment of NAFLD through immunomodulation. To determine the effect of auranofin on NAFLD, C57BL/6 mice were randomly grouped, fed a regular diet or a high fat diet (HFD), and injected with normal saline or auranofin for 8 weeks. Auranofin significantly decreased the body weight, epididymal fat weight, serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and glucose, as well as the serum triglyceride, cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels as compared to the HFD group. We also observed that hepatic steatosis was increased in the HFD group and was suppressed by auranofin treatment. In addition, auranofin suppressed the expressions of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-18, caspase-1, and the NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) in the liver tissue. Furthermore, the expression of NADPH oxidase 4 and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), which are a major source of oxidative stress and a regulator of adipogenesis, respectively, were also decreased by auranofin. In addition, primary mouse hepatocytes were incubated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and palmitic acid (PA) to induce lipid accumulation and hepatic inflammation for an in vitro model. Auranofin could significantly inhibit LPS- and PA-induced inflammatory activity including nitric oxide and NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated cytokines. The results of this study demonstrate that auranofin treatment inhibits the characteristics of NAFLD through the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome. Therefore, auranofin may have potential as a candidate for improving NAFLD symptoms.
Removal of Lead(II) from Synthetic Wastewater by Lavandula pubescens Decne Biosorbent: Insight into Composition–Adsorption Relationship
Authors: Alorabi Ali Q. , Alharthi Fahad A. , Azizi Mohamed , Al-Zaqri Nabil , El-Marghany Adel , Abdelshafeek Khaled A.
Published: October 2020

In this work, the widely-abundant, cheap, wild plant Lavandula pubescens Decne was evaluated as an adsorbent for removing Pb(II) ions from wastewater. The chemical composition of the plant was partially isolated and characterized by the corresponding techniques, including gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, gas liquid chromatography, and FTIR spectroscopy. The adsorption capacity of the dried plant material for Pb(II) ions increased with increasing contact time, initial ion concentration, and temperature, while it decreased with increasing adsorbent dosage. The optimum condition for Pb(II) adsorption was determined as 550 mg/L initial metal concentration, pH ≤ 7, and 90 min of contact. The best fit for Pb(II) adsorption isotherms was the linear form of the Freundlich model; however, the maximum capacity indicated by Langmuir was 91.32 mg/g. The experimental data fit better the pseudo-second-order kinetic model (R2 = 0.969), suggesting chemisorption process. Thermodynamic data revealed an endothermic, nonspontaneous, and adsorption process favored at higher concentrations.
Measurement of Wafer Focus by Grating Shearing Interferometry
Authors: Wang Jian , Hu Song , Zhu Xianchang
Published: October 2020

A method applied for improving the measurement precision and efficiency of wafer focusing in an optical lithography instrument (OLI) is introduced. Based on grating shearing interferometry, the defocus and tilt of the wafer are measured by testing the phase difference in the interference pattern. To validate the feasibility, an experiment is implemented, of which the measurement precision is indicated as 30 nm due to the high precision of phase-resolving arithmetic after analyzing the measurement uncertainty and indicating the precision by interferometer.
Photo-Biomodulation as a Prevention Modality of Oral Mucositis in Patients Undergoing Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Mohsen Ahmed , Tenore Gianluca , Rocchetti Federica , Del Vecchio Alessandro , Ricci Roberto , Barberi Walter , Cartoni Claudio , Iori Anna Paola , Pippi Roberto , Polimeni Antonella , Romeo Umberto
Published: October 2020

The aim of the study was to observe the effectiveness of a photo-biomodulation (PBM) protocol for the prevention of oral mucositis (OM) in patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (aHSCT). A case-control study was conducted on 40 patients undergoing aHSCT. The patients were divided into two groups; the preventive group (PG) included 20 patients (7 females and 13 males) who were subjected to intra-oral PBM for five sessions a week, starting one day before the conditioning regimen and continuing until the 10th day after transplantation (D+10). In each session, ten points on the at-risk mucosal surfaces were irradiated using a double diode laser that emits two wavelengths simultaneously at 650 nm and at 904–910 nm with the following parameters at each point: energy of 4 J, and power of 88.9 mW. The control group (CG) included 20 patients (10 females and 10 males) who were not subjected to laser therapy and were selected retrospectively to compare the obtained results. For all patients, OM was assessed by the World Health Organization (WHO) grading scale. Eight patients in the PG did not experience OM during their hospitalization period (with grade 0). Severe OM was observed in 40% of the patients in the PG, while in the CG, severe OM was shown in 85% of the patients. The mean duration of OM in the PG was significantly lower than that of CG (4.7 days in the PG and 15 days in the CG) (p < 0.001). The study demonstrated that the preventive PBM protocol reduced the severity and duration of OM in patients undergoing aHSCT.
Influence of Hot Carrier and Thermal Components on Photovoltage Formation across the p–n Junction
Authors: Gradauskas Jonas , Ašmontas Steponas , Sužiedėlis Algirdas , Šilėnas Aldis , Vaičikauskas Viktoras , Čerškus Aurimas , Širmulis Edmundas , Žalys Ovidijus , Masalskyi Oleksandr
Published: October 2020

In the present work we reveal the existence of the hot carrier photovoltage induced across a p–n junction in addition to the classical carrier generation-induced and thermalization-caused photovoltages. On the basis of the solution of the differential equation of the first-order linear time-invariant system, we propose a model enabling to disclose the pure value of each photovoltage component. The hot carrier photovoltage is fast since it is determined by the free carrier energy relaxation time (which is of the order of 10−12 s), while the thermal one, being conditioned by the junction temperature change, is relatively slow; and both of them have a sign opposite to that of the electron-hole pair generation-induced component. Simultaneous coexistence of the components is evidenced experimentally in GaAs p–n junction exposed to pulsed 1.06 μm laser light. The work is remarkable in two ways: first, it shows that creation of conditions unfavorable for the rise of hot carrier photovoltage might improve the efficiency of a single junction solar cell, and second, it should inspire the photovoltaic society to revise the Shockley–Queisser limit by taking into account the damaging impact of the hot carrier photovoltage.
Usability Evaluation for the Integration of Library Data Analysis and an Interactive Artwork by Sensing Technology
Authors: Chang Yuh-Shihng , Hu Kuo-Jui
Published: October 2020

In this research, we propose innovative ideas for digital art combined with educational applications for the library. It also presents the library’s information services to be more humane and interesting. By taking interactive devices as the basis, this research integrates college library borrowing data and an interactive artwork in order to perform an information visualization service for a user in the library by using their own smart phone. This research uses an instant data operation to carry out the information inquiry applications to present three years of library borrowing data, from 2013 to 2015, obtained from the Hsih Shin University library Data Access Protocol. Finally, a usability evaluation for the interactive art is conducted. To testify that this interactive art design meets the principle of user acceptance, a questionnaire survey is used for the statistical verification. The research findings show that a positive explanation value was achieved for user acceptance. The research model proposed by this research acts as a usability evaluation of the integrated application of an interactive artwork and library information service. The research model also corresponded to the user’s emotional feedback in the HCI research field. The value of this research is that we provide usability-verified models for cross-domain applications.
A ‘Speed—Difficulty—Accuracy’ Model Following a General Trajectory Motor Task with Spatial Constraints: An Information-Based Model
Authors: Digiesi Salvatore , Lucchese Andrea , Mummolo Carlotta
Published: October 2020

Accuracy in executing a motor task, i.e., in following a given trajectory under geometrical constraints, is of great interest in work operations as well as in biomechanics applications. In the framework of the Fitts’ law research on motor tasks, experimental studies usually refer to simple trajectories which are of low interest in practical applications. Furthermore, available models lack predicting accuracy in executing motor tasks since do not systematically investigate effects of both speed and task difficulty (index of difficulty (ID)). In this paper, the authors propose a ‘Speed-ID-Accuracy’ model aiming at overcoming abovementioned limits. The model is of general validity as is based on an information-based formulation of a trajectory ID; the model proposed put into relation accuracy in task execution with a general trajectory and with the speed of task execution. Modeling accuracy, defined as standard deviation of the endpoint position, is carried out by regressing data available in the literature. The model proposed proves to be more accurate than the classical ‘Speed-Accuracy’ model in fitting available data. Such a result has been found in both numerical cases relating to ‘tunnel’ and ‘circular’ traveling tasks. Limits of data from field experiments are stressed out and future research field of investigations in work environment and biomechanics are figured out.
Catalytic Conversion of α-Pinene to High-Density Fuel Candidates Over Stannic Chloride Molten Salt Hydrates
Authors: Cho Seong-Min , Choi June-Ho , Kim Jong-Hwa , Koo Bonwook , Choi In-Gyu
Published: October 2020

The synthesis of dimeric products from monoterpene hydrocarbons has been studied for the development of renewable high-density fuel. In this regard, the conversion of α-pinene in turpentine over stannic chloride molten salt hydrates (SnCl4·5H2O) as a catalyst was investigated, and the reaction products were analyzed with gas chromatography/flame ionization detector/mass spectrometer (GC/FID/MS). Overall, the content of α-pinene in a reaction mixture decreased precipitously with an increasing reaction temperature. Almost 100% of the conversion was shown after 1 h of reaction above 90 °C. From α-pinene, dimeric products (hydrocarbons and alcohols/ethers) were mostly formed and their yield showed a steady increase of up to 61 wt% based on the reaction mixture along with the reaction temperature. This conversion was thought to be promoted by Brønsted acid activity of the catalyst, which resulted from a Lewis acid-base interaction between the stannic (Sn(IV)) center and the coordinated water ligands. As for the unexpected heteroatom-containing products, oxygen and chlorine atoms were originated from the coordinated water and chloride ligands of the catalyst. Based on the results, we constructed not only a plausible catalytic cycle of SnCl4·5H2O but also the mechanism of catalyst decomposition.
Degradation Products on Byzantine Glasses from Northern Tunisia
Authors: Comite Valeria , Andreoli Martina , Atzei Davide , Barca Donatella , Fantauzzi Marzia , La Russa Mauro Francesco , Rossi Antonella , Guglielmi Vittoria , Fermo Paola
Published: October 2020

This study deals with the identification of the degradation products present on some Byzantine glasses coming from an archaeological excavation in Northern Tunisia. The main purpose of the present investigation is the identification of the products and the characterization of surface altered points, namely iridescent and black patinas, which are present on some selected glasses. Non-destructive techniques such as XPS (X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy), SEM-EDS (Scanning Electron Microscopy coupled with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy), ATR-FTIR (Attenuated Total Reflection-Fourier Infrared Spectroscopy) and LA-ICP-MS (Laser-Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry) are here exploited. SEM-EDS was employed to ascertain the morphological structure and the chemical composition of various points, apparently different, on the glass surfaces. Small area XPS was performed for identifying the elements present on the sample surface, for determining their chemical state and for establishing the atomic composition of the morphologically different regions. LA-ICP-MS was exploited to determine the chemical composition as far as the trace elements are concerned. The presence of iridescent patinas and of encrustations has been highlighted on the glass surfaces in correspondence to the altered areas: iridescent patinas are due to the fact that the glasses are depleted in alkali and alkaline earths. The incrustations resulted due to the presence of calcium carbonates, and/or oxyhydroxides. In one case sulfides were also detected by SEM.