bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of local anaesthetic peri-femoral artery injection compared to subcutaneous infiltration in combination with femoral and sciatic nerve blocks for reducing thigh tourniquet-induced hypertension during lower-limb surgery under general anaesthesia: A randomised controlled double-blinded trial
Authors: Tangkittithaworn Chonruethai , Kampitak Wirinaree , Benjamungkalarak Tanawat , Apinun Jirun
Published: December 2024

Background and Aims:

Tourniquet-induced hypertension (TH) remains an unresolved issue. Various techniques, such as peripheral nerve blocks, peri-femoral artery blocks, and subcutaneous infiltration, have been explored to address this. The primary objective was to compare the incidence of TH during lower-limb surgery under general anaesthesia between peri-femoral artery block and subcutaneous infiltration, combined with femoral and sciatic nerve blocks. Secondary objectives included intraoperative intravenous fentanyl and antihypertensive uses, as well as postoperative pain scores.

Methods:

This single-centre, double-blind, randomised controlled trial involved 58 patients scheduled for elective lower-limb surgery. Participants were assigned to the peri-femoral artery block (P-FAB) or subcutaneous infiltration (SI) groups. All patients received general anaesthesia alongside femoral and sciatic nerve blocks. TH was defined as a 30% increase in systolic blood pressure from baseline. Pain was assessed using a numerical rating scale in the post-anaesthetic care unit and at 4, 8, 12, and 24 h post-surgery. Unpaired t-test, Chi-square, and Mann-Whitney U test were used for analysis. A P value less than 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

Results:

There were no significant differences in the incidence of TH between the P-FAB and SI groups (P = 1.00). Similarly, no significant differences were observed in intraoperative fentanyl (P = 0.459) or antihypertensive use (P = 0.992). Pain scores across all measured aspects, including thigh and incision sites, were also not significantly different between groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusions:

In lower-limb surgery, adding a peri-femoral artery block to general anaesthesia with femoral and sciatic nerve blocks did not reduce the incidence of TH compared to subcutaneous infiltration.
In vitro evaluation of anti-microbial efficacy of Trigonella foenum-graecum and its constituents on oral biofilms
Authors: Sethi Geetanshu , Sood Shaveta , Bhardwaj Sonia Bhonchal , Jain Ashish
Published: December 2024

Background and Objective:

The extracts obtained from the leaves and seeds of Trigonella foenum-graecum (Fenugreek) are effective against various microbial infections. The phytoconstituents of Trigonella foenum-graecum have shown promising effects as anti-diabetics, anti-helmentic, anti-microbial, antifungal, and antipyretic, but its impact on oral pathogens is yet to be established. Therefore, the present study aimed to explore the antimicrobial efficacy of phytoconstituents of Trigonella foenum-graecum as compared to 0.2% chlorhexidine (CHX).

Materials and Methods:

The methanolic extracts of Trigonella foenum-graecum i.e., fenugreek absolute (FA), diosgenin (DIO), and furanone (FU) were used in this study. The antimicrobial efficacy of these extracts was evaluated by testing the minimal inhibitory concentration, minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC), agar well-diffusion assay, colony-forming unit (CFU) count, and also by using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212, Escherichia coli ATCC 35218, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853.

Results:

The results of the study demonstrated that Trigonella foenum-graecum has anti-microbial activity comparable to 0.2% CHX. Well-diffusion assay and CFU count assay of the extracts showed statistically significant (P < 0.001) results. MIC and MBC values were observed for FA, DIO, and FU compared to CHX against these selected test organisms. These results were confirmed by visual validation with CLSM.

Conclusion:

The use of herbal alternatives in periodontics might prove to be advantageous. Trigonella foenum-graecum can be used as a promising alternative to CHX against S. aureus, E. faecalis, E. coli, and P. aeruginosa for the management of oral and periodontal infections.
Evaluating the Efficacy of Artificial Intelligence Using Machine Learning Models in Predicting Functional Recovery Post-Stroke
Authors: Deole Mansi , Dharwadkar Raghavendrasingh
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background:

Stroke is a significant health problem in India, with an uneven prevalence and high early mortality rates. Worldwide, stroke is the second leading cause of death. In the initial months post-stroke, motor impairment is a primary concern, in addition to various other deficits. Predicting recovery after a stroke is crucial for optimizing resource allocation. Utilizing machine learning offers the potential to enhance therapeutic decision-making and predict individual recovery outcomes in stroke rehabilitation.

Objectives:

We aimed to employ machine learning algorithms to predict functional recovery after stroke by estimating Barthel Index scores, identifying patterns and correlations within the dataset, and determining the most effective machine learning model among the five algorithms that were tested.

Materials and Methods:

Participants were screened for eligibility before enrollment, and demographic information, stroke characteristics, and Barthel Index scores were recorded. The dataset was split into training and testing subsets for analysis. Five machine learning algorithms were trained using the initial dataset to develop predictive models.

Results:

High alcohol and tobacco use potentially influenced Barthel Index scores and stroke recovery. The recovery process varied based on stroke type, with ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. The Random Forest model exhibited the highest predictive accuracy among the models.

Conclusion:

The study highlights the role of demographics, lifestyle habits, comorbidities, and stroke type in functional recovery poststroke. The Random Forest model demonstrated the most reliable predictive capability, indicating artificial intelligence’s potential in stroke recovery prediction. Furthermore, research studies are needed to develop and evaluate robust prediction models.
Coexistence of G6PD Deficiency in a Crohn’s Disease Patient: Case Report
Authors: Uppaluri Kalyan Ram , Aishwarya Kappagantu , Chalcedony Rebecca , Palasamudram Kalyani
Published: December 2024

Mutations in the X-chromosome G6PD gene cause glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. Crohn’s disease (CD) is an inflammatory bowel disease that can cause inflammation and damage to the lining of the digestive tract. We report a 50-year-old male with CD who was found to have an unrecognized variant of G6PD deficiency. Further investigation confirmed the presence of G6PD enzymatic activity impairment, indicating the clinical relevance of this genetic alteration. This case report presents the G6PD variants rs137852339, rs1050757, and rs2230037 in an individual from South India, highlighting the significance of early genetic screening in individuals experiencing persistent symptoms lasting for years. The present case underscores the importance of genetic screening in patients with prolonged symptoms, aiming to prevent delayed diagnosis and enhance overall patient well-being through timely interventions and personalized treatment approaches.
A Single Center Experience of Adolescents and Young Adults with Gastrointestinal Tract Cancers
Authors: Nwanji Ifeanyichukwu D. , Adegoke Omolade O. , Ogunbiyi Olufemi John
Published: December 2024

Background:

Gastrointestinal tract (GIT) tumors are predominantly seen among middle-aged and elderly persons. However, there are reports of an increasing incidence among adolescents and young adults.

Objective:

We sought to describe the morphological characteristics of malignancies involving the GIT among adolescents and young adults in our center.

Materials and Methods:

This is a retrospective review of all histologically diagnosed cases of gastrointestinal malignancies in persons between the ages of 10 and 35, over a 10-year period (2010–2019).

Results:

There were 79 cases of GIT tumors in adolescents and young adults during the study period amounting to 14.2% of total GIT malignancies. The male: female ratio was 1:1.1. Colonic malignancies predominated, accounting for 75% of cases; these were mostly adenocarcinomas. Gastric cancers showed a female predilection; small intestinal tumors were observed more in males.

Conclusion:

Gastrointestinal tract tumors affecting adolescents and young adults are not uncommon. Most of these tumors are adenocarcinomas and affect the colon. Gastric cancers showed a female predilection.
Radiation proctitis in Lagos, Nigeria: A Review of clinical, endoscopic, and pathological findings
Authors: Oluyemi Aderemi , Momoh Martins , Ajimotokan Oluwafemi
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives:

Radiation proctitis (RP) is only sparsely documented as a gastrointestinal side effect of the administration of radiotherapeutic interventions in oncology practice in Nigerian patients. This review sought to profile important clinical aspects in five such cases of RP along with a review of the endoscopic and pathological findings.

Materials and Methods:

We conducted a retrospective review of all patients who were diagnosed with RP at two Lagos-based privately run colonoscopy centers. The record examined covered a duration of 36 months (April 1, 2016–May 31, 2019). Over this period, 1035 colonoscopies were carried out, and all RP cases (n = 5) were identified. The clinical presentations and endoscopic findings were documented as well as the findings of the pathologists’ report for the chronic proctitis (CP) cases.

Results:

All patients were in their sixth or seventh decade of life (age range, 63–78 years). There were two males and three females. All subjects had haematochezia as their presenting complaint. In the case of the two patients with acute RP, bleeding commenced after initiation of radiotherapy. As for the three patients with CP, the above symptoms started at 7, 11, and 36 months, respectively, after the last dose of radiotherapy. The time from the onset of the symptom to seeking colonoscopy evaluation varied between 2 and 12 weeks. The histological findings of biopsies of CP were consistent with the diagnosis in the three cases. The endoscopic findings were classified using the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer criteria.

Conclusion:

This study documents the changes related to RP in a cohort of Nigerian patients, with a focus on clinical, endoscopic, and histopathological findings.
Home iCare – What we already know
Authors: Lauwers Meindert , Vandewalle Evelien , Lemmens Sophie
Published: December 2024

The only known modifiable risk factor for the development and progression of glaucoma is an increased intraocular pressure (IOP). Current follow-up with Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT) constitutes a suboptimal approach, given out-of-office IOP peaks and fluctuations will not be exposed. Self-tonometry in the home environment could address this unmet need, detecting uncontrolled disease and potentially impacting further therapeutic management. Since recently, iCare HOME was developed as a handheld rebound tonometer for this purpose. The aim of this literature review is twofold. First, the accuracy of iCare HOME compared to GAT will be assessed, including evaluation of the influence of corneal characteristics and the mean IOP. Second, an overview of the reported feasibility and acceptance on the use of iCare HOME will be presented. The literature review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Literature was searched on Medline (via Pubmed), Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science (Core Collection) on April 10, 2023. A total of 187 records were identified after deduplication, of which 20 articles were included after full evaluation of their suitability. This study reported that iCare HOME has a moderate to good accuracy compared to GAT and a tendency to underestimate GAT, with a median underestimation of 1 mmHg, ranging from 2.66 mmHg underestimation to 2.08 mmHg overestimation. Success rates ranged between 67.5% and 100% with a median rate of 82.5%. Sufficient acceptance was demonstrated. In conclusion, self-tonometry with iCare HOME constitutes an accurate, feasible, and accepted method for home monitoring of glaucoma, providing additional out-of-office IOP-data, and increasing patient empowerment.
Reversal of cup-to-disc ratio following trabeculectomy using optical coherence tomography imaging: A case series
Authors: Verhelst Anneleen H. J. , Walgrave Vincent L. E. , Eijgen Jan V. , Lemmens Sophie
Published: December 2024

In this case series, we report the reversal of optic disc cupping in three adults following trabeculectomy. Two patients experienced asymptomatic low intraocular pressure (IOP) postoperatively, while the third patient had intermittently elevated IOP for a month. The reversal of cupping, a rare occurrence in adults, was confirmed through optic disc photography and the use of spectral domain-optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) imaging, which enhances the objectivity of these findings. Despite these changes in cup-to-disc ratio (C/D), there were no significant changes in visual field indices in any of the patients. This series is SD-OCT documented cases of cupping reversal in adults up to 2 years postoperatively.
Protecting the Safe Water Chain in Refugee Camps: An Exploratory Study of Water Handling Practices, Chlorine Decay, and Household Water Safety in South Sudan, Jordan, and Rwanda
Authors: Ali Syed Imran , De Santi Michael , Monette Georges , Khan Usman T. , Fesselet Jean-François , Orbinski James
Published: December 2024

In refugee and internally displaced person settlements, hygienic water handling and free residual chlorine (FRC) are crucial for protecting water against recontamination after distribution up to the household point-of-consumption. We conducted a secondary analysis of water quality and water handling data collected in refugee camps in South Sudan, Jordan, and Rwanda using statistical and process-based modeling to explore how water handling practices affect FRC decay and household FRC outcomes. The two practices that consistently produced a significant effect on FRC decay and household FRC were storing water in direct sunlight and transferring water between containers during household storage. Samples stored in direct sunlight had 0.22–0.31 mg/L lower household FRC and had FRC decay rates between 2 and 3.7 times higher than samples stored in the shade, and samples that were transferred between containers had 0.031–0.51 mg/L lower household FRC and decay rates 1.65–3 times higher than non-transferred samples in sites in which the effect was significant, suggesting that humanitarian responders should aim to provide additional water storage containers to prevent water transferring in households and encourage water-users not to store water in direct sunlight. By contrast, the effect of the three recommended hygienic water handling behaviors (clean, covered containers and drawing by tap or pouring) was mixed or inconclusive. These inconclusive results were likely due to imbalanced or unreliable approaches to gathering the data, and we recommend that hygienic water handling practices that mechanistically provide a physical barrier against recontamination should always be promoted in humanitarian settings.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at the Intersection of Privacy and Archives
Authors: Khuhro Iori , Gilmore Erin , Suderman Jim , Hofman Darra L.
Published: December 2024

As records are increasingly born digital – and thus, at least ostensibly, potentially much more accessible – archivists find themselves struggling to enable general access while providing appropriate privacy protections for the torrent of records being transferred to their care. In this article, the authors report the results of an integrative literature review study, examining the intersection of AI, archives, and privacy in terms of how archives are currently coping with these challenges and what role(s) AI might play in addressing privacy in archival records. The study revealed three major themes: 1) the challenges of – and possibilities beyond – defining “privacy” and “AI”; 2) the need for context-sensitive ways to manage privacy and access decisions; and 3) the lack of adequate “success measures” for ensuring the actual fitness for purpose of privacy AI solutions in the archival context.
Heavy Metals in Water and Sediments and Their Impact on Water Quality in Andean Micro-watersheds: A Study of the Colorado and Alajua Rivers in the Ambato River Watershed, Tungurahua, Ecuador
Authors: Peñafiel Rodny , Morales-Fiallos Fabián Rodrigo , Beltran Bolivar Paredes , Moya Dilon , Carrion Adriana Jacqueline Frias , Moreano Belén
Published: December 2024

The present study aims to characterize the water and sediment quality of the Colorado and Alajua rivers within Ecuador’s Ambato River watershed, with a specific focus on the presence of heavy metals. Measurements were conducted at five sampling points along the upper and lower zones of each river, where both physicochemical and microbiological parameters, as well as concentrations of heavy metals in water and sediments, were analyzed. Most parameters exhibited statistically significant differences, as determined by the analysis of variance (ANOVA), between the values observed in the upper and lower zones of the micro-watersheds. Water quality in the mentioned rivers was assessed using specific water quality indices, WQI, namely the NSF-WQI and Dinius WQI. Additionally, the impact of heavy metal presence in the water and sediments was evaluated using the Heavy Metal Evaluation Index (HEI). While most parameters met the Ecuadorian quality standards for water sources intended for human consumption, concerns emerged regarding elevated levels of total and fecal coliforms along both rivers, which could limit the suitability of these rivers as a water source for human use and consumption. At various sampling points, water quality criteria for the preservation of aquatic life were not met for several heavy metals. For example, the Colorado River exhibited elevated levels of zinc (59-76 μg.L-1), copper (12-47 μg.L-1), lead (1.2-3.9 μg.L-1 ), iron (0.33-0.37 mg.L-1 ), and manganese (0.37-0.47 mg.L-1), while the Alajua River showed excess copper (11 μg.L-1), iron (0.61-0.72 mg.L-1), and manganese (0.62-0.98 mg.L-1). Geological factors likely contribute to the concentration of heavy metals in the upper segments of the rivers, while agricultural runoff may contribute to concentrations in the lower segments. Sediments exhibited higher average values of the Heavy Metal Evaluation Index (HEI) (20.6-26.7) compared to water samples (13.9-15.4), indicating a potential accumulation of heavy metals in the river sediments. Overall, both rivers exhibited contamination levels ranging from regular to moderate, as indicated by the calculated average Water Quality Indices (WQI), with certain areas showing slight contamination or meeting acceptable standards. These results highlight the influence of anthropogenic activities on water quality, emphasizing the necessity of continuous monitoring to assess and control their impact.
Hepatotoxic Effects of Gaseous Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂), and Their Mixture on Sea Bass (Centropristis striata): Hematological, Biochemical and Genotoxic Studies
Authors: Gandhi N. , Reddy Y. Rama Govinda , Vijaya Ch.
Published: December 2024

This study meticulously explores the intricate hepatotoxic effects stemming from acute exposure to gaseous sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and their amalgamation on sea bass (Centropristis striata). Employing a comprehensive approach involving hematological, cytotoxic, and histochemical analyses, the research provides crucial insights into the potential adverse impacts of these pollutants on fish health. The examination specifically focuses on the effects of SO2+NO2 on hematological, histochemical, and serum biochemical parameters in Centropristis striata. Treatment groups, subjected to LC30, LC50, and LC90 acute exposure of gaseous SO2, NO2, and SO2+NO2, alongside a control group, underwent evaluation of parameters such as red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, total protein, albumin, serum creatinine, and blood urea. At the 96th hour, RBC values decreased, and WBC values increased in all experimental conditions compared to the control group (p>0.05). MCV and MCH increased with the concentration of gaseous pollutants and exposure time (p>0.05). Hematological parameter variations underscore disruptions in blood composition and immune responses. Simultaneously, alterations in serum biochemical parameters suggest potential impairments in liver and kidney functions, along with disturbances in lipid metabolism. Significant declines in albumin levels, indicating potential liver dysfunction or inflammation due to SO2 and NO2 exposures, were observed at all experimental conditions, while decreased globulin levels suggest immunosuppressive effects from combined pollutants. A substantial increase in the albumin/globulin ratio further signals an imbalance indicative of potential liver dysfunction or inflammation. Varied responses in liver enzyme levels (SGPT/ALT, SGOT/AST, ALP) underscore potential liver damage or injury (p< 0.05). These findings deepen our understanding of environmental impacts on aquatic ecosystems, emphasizing the need for ongoing efforts to ensure the health and sustainability of fish populations in polluted environments.
Analysis of the Lebanese Society’s Behavior Regarding Electronic Waste Management
Authors: Trad M. , Harb A.
Published: December 2024

This paper examines electronic waste and cycling in Lebanon. It describes the current situation regarding e-waste among government agencies and non-governmental organizations. It addresses two research questions: The first one asks if the Lebanese society and government are aware of the dangers posed by electronic waste and whether any action has been taken to prevent an environmental catastrophe. The second question asks about Lebanese attitudes toward e-waste and whether they are willing to fight against it. Interviews provided the first question’s responses. The authors have visited Organization A and NGO B. The first is worried about gathering waste in more prominent Beirut, while the second targets spreading attention to e-waste’s risks on legislative and social levels the same. Question two was discussed through surveys filled out by arbitrary people from Lebanese society. The answers to both research questions came in a manner that demonstrates the two hypotheses expected toward the start of the study, specifically that e-waste represents an incredible danger to the Lebanese climate. Hypothesis two, if climate neighborliness and proclivity to right e-garbage removal rely upon the instructive level of some random resident, has been confirmed while analyzing the answers in the survey.
Transforming Soil Stability: A Review on Harnessing Plant Cell Compounds and Microbial Products for Modifying Cation Exchange Capacity
Authors: Shah M. V. , Rathod N. M. , Prajapati D. N. , Mehta P. J. , Panchal R. R. , Upadhye Vijay
Published: December 2024

Soil stabilization is a very important method of science and engineering for improving the properties of soil. This paper aims to stabilize expansive black cotton soil through a biological approach involving plant extracts, plant waste materials, and microorganisms. While chemical methods exist, i.e., lime stabilization, geotextiles, etc., they are not economically feasible for large-scale applications. The primary issue with black cotton soil is due to the presence of montmorillonite clay mineral, which makes it unsuitable for the construction of roads and airfields. The cation exchange capacity (CEC) can be defined as the ability of soil to absorb and exchange positively charged ions; thus, if free positively charged ions are not available, the soil will not exchange them with others. The CEC of the soil is diminished, and ultimately, the soil is stabilized to some extent. This paper explores the preparation of plant extract, which contains a high number of anions, and directly inoculates it with soil, which nullifies the positive charge of the soil and diminishes the CEC. The use of cellulose and lignin-degrading microorganisms as an energy source and other minerals that are needed for their growth will be utilized from the soil to reduce CEC, i.e., Mg required for DNA replication and Ca required for their growth and maintenance. Another approach to diminishing the CEC is to use the microorganisms that produce EPS, which require Ca and Mg as adhesions for the formation of biofilm, i.e., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, and Escherichia coli. The use of microorganisms that have specific enzymes is also used in the diminishing soil CEC, i.e., by using ureolytic enzyme-producing bacteria like Sporosarcina pasteurii, Bacillus paramycoides, Citrobacter sedlakii, and Enterobacter bugadensis.
Impact of Urban Xenobiotics on Mycorrhizal Associations in Urban Plants
Authors: Mandwa Aashutosh Kumar , Bhardwaj Atul Kumar , Kumar Rajesh , Chandra K.K. , Kumari Chanchal , Padey S. K.
Published: December 2024

Urban xenobiotics are a vital contamination phenomenon of urban plants in the overall country. They are a result of human activity due to growing urbanization and population growth. There are extensive sources of both natural (soil or rock erosion, fires, biodegradation, and volcanic eruptions) and anthropogenic (soil pollution, air, and herbicides). Currently, the demand for pharmaceuticals, compared to the growing population, has placed a risk on the urban plant. Additionally, the production of illegal drugs has caused the release of dangerous carcinogens into fungal activities, which will have an impact on plant health, microbial structure, and fungal interaction. Because of the harsh environment, higher temperatures, heavy metals, and higher N deposition, most urban trees suffer from stress conditions, and mycorrhiza is negatively impacted by plant conditions. Some mycorrhiza fungi are unable to sporulate and hyphal at higher xenobiotic concentrations in urban areas. This chapter takes a look at the sources and compounds of xenobiotics and their harmful impact on mycorrhiza; and its association with the urban plants.
Plant Leaf Disease Detection Using Integrated Color and Texture Features
Authors: Patil Jayamala Kumar , Mandlik Vinay Sampatrao
Published: December 2024

In the realm of precision agriculture, a pivotal challenge lies in the detection, identification, and grading of crop diseases. This multifaceted task necessitates the involvement of expert human resources and time-sensitive actions aimed at mitigating the risks of production losses and the rapid spread of diseases. The effectiveness of the majority of developed systems in this domain hinges on the quality of image features and disease segmentation accuracy. This paper presents a comprehensive research endeavor in the domain of Content-Based Image Retrieval (CBIR), specifically tailored to detect and classify leaf diseases. The proposed system integrates both color and texture features to underpin its functionality, providing a robust framework for accurate disease detection. By leveraging advanced image processing techniques, the system enhances the precision of disease identification, which is crucial for timely and effective intervention in agricultural practices. To evaluate the system’s performance, maize leaves afflicted by rust and blight serve as prime candidates for testing. These diseases were chosen due to their prevalence and significant impact on crop yield. The experimental results demonstrate that the developed system consistently excels in its disease detection and identification tasks, boasting an impressive efficiency rate of 98.33%. This high level of accuracy underscores the potential of the system to be a valuable tool in precision agriculture, aiding farmers and agricultural experts in maintaining healthy crops and optimizing production. The integration of color and texture features not only improves the detection accuracy but also provides a comprehensive understanding of the disease characteristics. This dual-feature approach ensures that the system can distinguish between different types of diseases with high precision, making it a versatile solution for various agricultural applications. The findings of this research highlight the importance of advanced image analysis techniques in enhancing the capabilities of disease detection systems, paving the way for more efficient and effective agricultural practices.
Optimization and Thermodynamic Analysis of CO2 Refrigeration Cycle for Energy Efficiency and Environmental Control
Authors: Hassani Manish , Purohit Kamlesh
Published: December 2024

Supermarket applications are significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, necessitating efforts to reduce carbon footprints in the food retail sector. Carbon dioxide (R744) is recognized as a viable long-term refrigerant choice due to its favorable properties, including low Global Warming Potential, non-toxicity, non-flammability, affordability, and widespread availability. However, enhancing the energy efficiency of pure CO2 systems in basic architecture units, particularly in warm regions like India, remains a challenge. To address this, modern refrigeration systems must prioritize low energy consumption and high coefficient of performance (COP) while meeting environmental standards. This study investigates different operating conditions to determine the optimal parameter range for maximizing COP and improving the efficiency of conventional CO2 refrigeration configurations. It examines both subcritical and transcritical refrigeration cycles under varying parameters, emphasizing the importance of understanding COP’s relationship with factors such as subcooling, superheating, ambient temperature, and evaporator temperature. The study advises against superheating in CO2 systems but highlights the substantial COP increase with higher degrees of subcooling, leading to enhanced system performance. Additionally, it provides a comprehensive theoretical comparison between advanced pure CO2 supermarket applications and commonly used hydrofluorocarbons-based systems, offering insights into energy efficiency and environmental impacts for informed decision-making in the industry.
Enhancing Smart Grids for Sustainable Energy Transition and Emission Reduction with Advanced Forecasting Techniques
Authors: Rania Farah , Brahim Farou , Zineddine Kouahla , Hamid Seridi
Published: December 2024

Smart grids are modernized, intelligent electricity distribution systems that integrate information and communication technologies to improve the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of the electricity network. However, existing smart grids only integrate renewable energies when it comes to active demand management without taking into consideration the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. This paper addresses this problem by forecasting CO2 emissions based on electricity consumption, making it possible to transition to renewable energies and thereby reduce CO2 emissions generated by fossil fuels. This approach contributes to the mitigation of climate change and the preservation of air quality, both of which are essential for a healthy and sustainable environment. To achieve this goal, we propose a transformer-based encoder architecture for load forecasting by modifying the transformer workflow and designing a novel technique for handling contextual features. The proposed solution is tested on real electricity consumption data over a long period. Results show that the proposed approach successfully handles time series data to detect future CO2 emissions excess and outperforms state-of-the-art techniques.
Assessment of Water Poverty Index (WPI) Under Changing Land Use/Land Cover in a Riverine Ecosystem of Central India
Authors: Kumar Girish , Singh M. M. , Singh Dheeraj Kumar , Choudhary Bal Krishan , Rathore Vijay Kumar Singh , Kumar Pramod
Published: December 2024

Watershed Development is a very common phenomenon in the river basins in India due to its dynamic and continuously changing nature, which are interconnected via. Land use/land cover (LULC) change and water poverty scenario over time. In the present study, the samples were chosen from seven sampled villages for the Water Poverty Index (WPI) in the upper Tons River Basin. Among them, Ghunwara and Maihar Village exhibit the highest and lowest WPI, i.e., 98.1 and 62.91 out of 100, respectively. This indicates that villages with a high WPI face challenges in their water requirements, regardless of the seasonal river serving the basin area. Conversely, villages with a low WPI can satisfy their water needs solely from the basin. The present analysis of the Upper Tons River Basin suggests that Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) will undergo influences or adjustments at various stages, ultimately affecting agricultural land in the impact region. It also becomes evident that areas with limited land use and land cover (LULC) extensions exhibit lower Water Productivity Index (WPI), primarily due to their reliance on agricultural land. It is observed that alterations, reductions, or modifications in LULC lead to changes in multiple aspects of agricultural land, resulting in noticeable variations in various metrics. The present paper not only evaluates the land use in the Upper Tons River Basin spanning from 2001 to 2021 but also highlights the changing patterns that impact water resources and their utilization capacity. Furthermore, the study estimates the influence of reducing specific features on the distribution of WPI and other LULC parameters. The Upper Tons River Basin faces challenges such as unfavorable rainfall patterns and inadequate planning for irrigation at the fundamental and local levels. Additionally, its geographical location in a rainfed area negatively affects the WPI.
An Assessment of Land Use Land Cover Using Machine Learning Technique
Authors: Pushpalatha V. , Mahendra H. N. , Prasad A. M. , Sharmila N. , Kumar D. Mahesh , Basavaraju N. M. , Pavithra G. S. , Mallikarjunaswamy S.
Published: December 2024

This research paper presents a comprehensive assessment of the built-up area in Mysuru City over the decade spanning from 2010 to 2020, employing advanced geospatial techniques. The study aims to analyze the spatiotemporal patterns of urban expansion, land-use dynamics, and associated factors influencing the city’s built environment. Remote sensing imagery, Geographic Information System (GIS) tools, and machine learning algorithms are leveraged to process and interpret satellite data for accurate land-cover classification. The methodology involves the acquisition and preprocessing of multi-temporal satellite imagery to delineate and map the built-up areas at different time intervals. Land-use change detection techniques are employed to identify and quantify alterations in urban morphology over the specified period. Additionally, socio-economic and environmental variables are integrated into the analysis to discern the drivers of urban growth. The outcomes of this research contribute valuable insights into urbanization dynamics and land-use planning strategies, facilitating informed decision-making for sustainable urban development.
Review of Methods for the Detection of Allergens in Novel Food Alternative Proteins
Authors: Grundy Helen , Romero M. Rosario , Brown Lucy C. , Parker Marc
Published: December 2024

Novel food, defined in the retained food regulations as ‘food that has not been consumed to a significant degree by humans in the EU before 15 May 1997 (EU Regulation 2015/2283),’ is expected to be used to an increasing extent and in a range of food products within the coming decade aiming to feed the growing global population in a more sustainable manner and comprising nutritious forms of protein. The safety aspects of novel foods must be thoroughly assessed before they can reach the market, and this includes assessment of allergenicity risks. FSA have funded this project to review current knowledge of the allergenicity of insect protein and precision fermentation (PF) protein and identify future research needs in this field. This report comprises an unbiased critical literature review (Section 1) coupled with consultations with experts and stakeholders in the field (Section 2) and focussing specifically on insect protein as well as milk and egg protein produced by precision fermentation. Section 3 comprises testing data to determine whether current allergen testing ELISA kits can be used to detect allergens in novel food. The literature review addresses allergenicity considerations of these novel proteins. The expert consultation (allergen testing, innovative methods, protein biochemistry) aimed to gain information on the potential allergenicity of PF and insect proteins, cross-reactivity (insect/shellfish allergens) and to identify knowledge gaps and challenges to recommend future strategies.
Development Wellness Tourism Tradition Based on Regulation Implementations of The Minister Tourism and The Creative Economy Case Study: Surakartea Tea House
Authors: Saifuddin Naufal Hanif , Waluyo Waluyo , Marimin Marimin , Wibowo Prasetyo Adi Wisnu
Published: December 2024

Naufal Hanif, 2022,Development of Wellness Tourism Based on Tradition Case Study of Suraktea Tea House.Thesis. Advisor: Dr. Prasetyo Adi Wisnu Wibowo, S.S., M.Hum. Second advisor: Dr. Marimin, M.Sc. Masters Program in Cultural Studies, Postgraduate School, Sebelas Maret University Surakarta.
Development Wellness Tourism Tradition-based case studies of the Surakartea tea house are contained. First: Development Wellness Tourism based on the tradition of drinking tea at the Surakarta Tea House, and Potential Wellness Tourism based on tea drinking at the Surakarta Tea House should be developed in Surakarta City. The second point refers to the regulations of the Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy regarding business activity standards in the implementation of risk-based business licensing in the tourism sector.
This study discusses the development of tradition-based tourism, the principles of entertainment travel are transformed into tourist trips that are fitness for tourists, such as self-health and self-mentality, so that when tourists return to their respective activities they have better personality and health. Good. Perceptions about travel that have become a tradition of the Indonesian people will be changed and adapted to the needs of the community in a more attractive and enjoyable form so as to make tourists attractive in selecting tourist destinations to be visited and in accordance with what is needed.
Discussion of the regulations of the Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy regarding the standardization of business activities that must have a permit is also a discussion in this research. What is the reference in the legal framework that regulates and controls tourism activities in a country or region.
The conclusion of this research: developmentwellness tourism based on the tradition of drinking tea at the Surakarta Tea House in the form of tour packages called "tour packages".wellness based on Surakarta tradition. The tour package consists of drinking tea activities accompanied bylive music gamelan and dance, followed bywalking tour in the village area of ??the Kasunanan Palace. Surakarta City has the potential to developwellness tourism based on the tradition of drinking tea at the Surakartea Tea House as a city of culture. Regulatory references to the regulations of the Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy for the Surakarta Tea House which are appropriate in meeting tourism standards.
The Transformation Process of Gambyok Site and Local Wishdom Values in Developing Mathematic Worksheets for Elementary School Students with Pancasila Youth Profile
Authors: Fiantika Feny Rita , Paryitno Sunyoto Hadi
Published: December 2024

This study aims to describe the transformation process of the Gambyok site and the value of local wisdom in the development of LKMS-SD based on the Merdeka Curriculum. One of the efforts to maintain culture is by contributing in associating culture in learning through cross-discipline transformation without changing the characteristics of such disciplines. This transformation can be designed through the abstraction process of knowledge, thereby producing learning contexts that encompass various disciplines by considering learning achievement and learning goals of each discipline. Interdisciplinary learning can be used to develop differentiated learning and can be applied as project-based learning materials. Students can learn directly from their environment then apply the results.
Female Subjectivity on the term “Independent Woman” in Social Media Platforms
Authors: Syafiiqa Anindya Diqza , Ellyzabethania Gladera
Published: December 2024

The awareness of the term "Independent Woman" is now very widespread given the speed at which information can be spread through the presence of social media. Unfortunately, the public does not have a complete understanding of this term, and as a result, there are numerous misconceptions surrounding it. This article is focused to understand how the gendered narratives and imaginaries presented by public in social media platforms. The study attempts to evaluate female subjectivity on social media, investigating precisely the nuances of the phrase "Independent Woman." In order to raise the general public's awareness of this idea, the first section of the paper will focus on the traits that, in modern society, characterize media representations of female identity, and the second section will analyze the effects of social media on the term "Independent Woman" using the results of questionnaires. The final part of this research will examine the term and how people actually perceive it in relation to social media platforms. whether it has a good effect or the inverse effect. The results of these study show that the term “Independent Woman” is still perceived incorrectly by the public.
Role of People's Representative Council in Optimizing Regional Autonomy Based on Administrative Perspective
Authors: Heriyanto Heriyanto
Published: December 2024

Strengthening and optimizing the Legislative Body in the era of regional autonomy is consequential, considering that the functions of the Regional People's Representative Council (Indonesian: Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat Daerah) include the functions of legislation, budgeting, and supervision. The major challenge for Regional People's Representative Council in carrying out its duties is to create an optimal working mechanism. Raising awareness of its functions is an urgent and essential need. The community expects the Regional People's Representative Council to accomplish its parliamentary functions with a promising fundamental role for society. This study employed a qualitative method with descriptive analysis. The research findings show that optimizing the role of the Regional People's Representative Council in regional autonomy can be realized by carrying out its duties and functions precisely. It can oversee the course of development policies carried out by the executives (Head of Regions) and create a balance between institutions that are in local government. Furthermore, the Regional People's Representative Council is given the task and authority to formulate regional regulations with the Head of the Region. Regional regulations function as a tool in carrying out the social and democratic transformation, as an embodiment of community culture and regional entities that can respond to rapid changes and challenges in the era of autonomy and globalization, as well as supporting good local governance, which is part of sustainable regional development.
Analysis of Leadership, Talent Management and Motivation Towards Employee in PT. Srirejeki Makmur Abadi
Authors: Kusuma Sitta , Hamidah Hamidah , Pahala Indra
Published: December 2024

This paper seeks to analyze the influence of leadership, talent management and work motivation on employee turnover intention in PT. Srirejeki Makmur Abadi. This is a quantitative descriptive research design using a survey method via a questionnaire. The population consist of PT. Sri Rejeki Makmur Abadi employees and sample collection was obtained by random sampling method. This study used a questionnaire with the type of instrument used for data collection based on a Likert scale, namely a scale that uses 5 respondents' answer choices. Processing of primary data acquired from research participants by employing SEM (Structural Equation Models). The results of the analysis show that Talent management has a positive and insignificant effect on turnover intention. Leadership has a negative and insignificant effect on talent management. Leadership has a negative and insignificant effect on turnover intention. Motivation has a positive and insignificant effect on talent management. Motivation has a negative and significant effect on turnover intention. Leadership has a negative and insignificant effect on turnover intention through talent management. Meanwhile, motivation has a positive and insignificant effect on turnver intention through talent management.
The Role of Interpersonal Communication in Maintaining The Mental Health of University Students in Makassar: A Phenomenological Study
Authors: Riyadi Riyadi , Maria Fatimah Jeanny , Hasrullah Hasrullah
Published: December 2024

Maintaining mental health among university students is a growing concern, especially in culturally rich regions like Makassar. This study investigates the role of interpersonal communication in supporting the mental well-being of students in Makassar. The research aims to understand how students utilize interpersonal communication to address mental health challenges and adapt to academic and social environments. Using a qualitative approach with an interpretative phenomenological design, in-depth interviews were conducted with ten students from various study programs in Makassar. The findings reveal five primary functions of interpersonal communication: (1) serving as emotional catharsis, (2) establishing social support systems, (3) managing conflicts and academic pressures, (4) aiding cultural adaptation for migrant students, and (5) facilitating mental health care through technology. The research highlights the influence of local cultural values, such as sipakatau (mutual respect) and siri' na pacce (a sense of shame and empathy), on the ways interpersonal communication is practiced. The results underscore the importance of interpersonal communication skills in equipping students for academic and professional challenges. These findings have critical implications for higher education institutions in designing mental health support programs that are culturally sensitive and address students' interpersonal communication needs.