bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Okullarda Psikolojik Sağlamlık ve İnovasyon: Yenilikçi Psikolojik Danışmanlık Uygulamaları
Authors: Yavrutürk Ali Rıza
Published: December 2024

Bu çalışmada, öğrencilerin duygusal ve psikolojik sağlamlığını desteklemek amacıyla okullarda uygulanan yenilikçi danışmanlık yöntemlerini incelemektedir. Makalede, çağdaş psikolojik danışmanlık yaklaşımlarının, öğrencilerin hızlı değişen dünyaya uyum sağlamaları ve stresle başa çıkma becerilerini geliştirmeleri üzerindeki etkisi ele alınmaktadır. Psikolojik sağlamlık, bireyin stresli yaşam olayları karşısında esneklik gösterip toparlanma gücünü ifade eder. Okullarda bu beceriyi geliştirmek için inovatif danışmanlık uygulamaları giderek önem kazanmaktadır. Makale, mindfulness, bilişsel davranışçı terapiler (BDT) ve teknoloji temelli müdahaleler gibi yeni yaklaşımların psikolojik sağlamlığa katkısını vurgulamaktadır. Özellikle sanal gerçeklik ve mobil uygulamaların kullanımı, öğrencilerin duygusal farkındalığını artırmak ve anksiyete, depresyon gibi sorunlarla başa çıkmak için etkili araçlar olarak sunulmaktadır. Bu çalışmada ele alınan yenilikçi psikolojik danışmanlık uygulamaları, öğrencilere duygusal dayanıklılık kazandırarak zorlu yaşam olaylarıyla başa çıkmalarını kolaylaştırır. Okullarda psikolojik sağlamlığı desteklemek için dijital ve yaratıcı terapi tekniklerinin kullanılması ve bireysel ihtiyaçlarına yönelik çözümler sunmayı sağlar. İnovasyon odaklı psikolojik danışmanlık, öğrencilere problem çözme becerileri kazandırarak, onları hızlı değişen dünyaya uyum sağlamaya hazır hale getirir. Sonuç olarak, yenilikçi psikolojik danışmanlık uygulamaları, öğrencilerin duygusal dayanıklılığını güçlendirmekte ve akademik başarılarına da olumlu etkilerde bulunmaktadır. Bu uygulamaların eğitim sistemine entegre edilmesi, öğrencilerin hem bireysel gelişimlerine hem de toplumsal uyuma katkı sağlamaktadır.
Influence of Backlight DoF in Droplet Shadow Sizing
Authors: Kebriaee Azadeh
Published: December 2024

Droplet sizing requires some points to consider in imaging systems with backlit illumination. The dimension of the droplets, as well as distancing from the depth of field (DoF) of the camera lens, are two critical parameters in the size calibration, reported in the literature. Since the previous methods of droplet sizing were based on collimated light in shadowgraphy technique, some details should be explained in a non-collimated extended light source. In this paper, the
definition of DoF is introduced for a light source, and the reason of blurry edges is explained for an unfocused imaging setup based on DoF of the light source. A theoretical analysis using point spread function (PSF) is performed to confirm the concept of DoF in backlit illumination of an extended light source. Our study showed that the effective variables on DoF consist of the droplets size, aperture lens of the light source, and relative position between a droplet and the illumination setup. Besides, experimental findings admit more narrow halo region around the droplet edge in well-adjusted imaging setup. Based on theoretical analysis and experimental validations, a well-adjusted imaging setup is consequently proposed to arrange the optical system for capturing droplets with a sharp edge.
Hidden-phase compensation in extended-beacon adaptive optics
Authors: Kalensky Matthew , Burrell Derek , Banet Matthias , Spencer Mark
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we use wave-optics simulations to explore the benefits of hidden-phase compensation for laser systems that employ extended-beacon adaptive optics. Specifically, we create a trade space where we vary the strength of the scintillation as well as the size of the beacon, and score laser-system performance in terms of no phase compensation, perfect least-squares compensation, and perfect full-phase compensation. Here, "full phase'' refers to the least-squares and hidden-phase components of the pupil-plane phase function. The results of this trade space lead to three main conclusions. (1) If the scintillation is weak and we have either a point-source beacon or a very small extended-source beacon, then we see similar performance with perfect least-squares and full-phase compensation; however, both significantly improve performance compared to the no compensation case. On the other hand, if the scintillation is strong and we have either a point-source beacon or a very small extended-source beacon, then we get a significant improvement in performance using perfect full-phase compensation compared to perfect least-squares compensation. (2) If the scintillation is strong, then there will be a large number of turbulence-induced branch points and branch cuts in the hidden-phase component of the pupil-plane phase function. These branch points and cuts will result in a major reduction in performance if left uncompensated. (3) If the extended-source beacon is large, then the associated rough-surface scattering and resultant speckle will corrupt the perfect least-squares and full-phase compensation to the point where performance is on par or worse than the no compensation case. At large, (1)-(3) will inform the development of future laser systems that need to mitigate the effects of scintillation and speckle to perform extended-beacon adaptive optics.
Photon Budget of Long Range FMCW LiDAR - A Comprehensive Spectral-Temporal Model with Experimental Validation
Authors: TAN SI , White Logan , Wang Shengkai
Published: December 2024

A comprehensive model for the photon budget of FMCW LiDAR has been developed for automotive applications and validated through a series of long-range experiments. Based on this model, analytical SNR expressions are derived, covering the typical limit cases of the operating regimes. The maximum detection distance of FMCW LiDAR is further evaluated using this model, establishing a quantitative relationship with key design parameters, including laser power, signal linewidth, measurement time, and the number of FFT points. Based on these results, system design trade-offs concerning the number of channels, laser power consumption, and data rate/resolution are also discussed, providing additional design considerations and performance expectations for future automotive-grade FMCW LiDARs.
Evaluation of the Maturity Level of Information Technology Security Systems Using KAMI Index Version 4.2 (Case Study: Islamic Boarding Schools in Yogyakarta Special Region Province)
Authors: Arromdoni Bad’ul Hilmi , Nuruzzaman Muhammad Taufiq , 'Uyun Shofwatul , Sugiantoro Bambang
Published: December 2024

The development of information technology worldwide has changed very rapidly. There has been a data theft on the information system belonging to one of the most prominent Islamic Boarding Schools in the Yogyakarta area. Thus, special attention is needed to evaluate information technology security using the Information Security Index version 4.2. The research methods include extracting information, literature study, data collection, data validation, data analysis, and recommendations. The evaluation results are at the basic framework fulfilment level with a value of 343; the electronic system category has a low status with a value of 15 and 5 improvements; the governance category,  the risk management category,  the framework category,  the asset management category, and the information security technology category, have a maturity level II status with 12, five, eight, four, and eight recommendations respectively, while the supplement category for third party security areas with a value of 60%, securing cloud infrastructure services 56% and protecting personal data 61% with 14 recommendations.
Analysis of Factors Affecting the Students’ Acceptance Level of E-Commerce Applications in Yogyakarta Using Modified UTAUT 2
Authors: Candra Dori Gusti Alex , Nuruzzaman Muhammad Taufiq , 'Uyun Shofwatul , Sugiantoro Bambang , Pratiwi Millati
Published: December 2024

Yogyakarta is listed as the region with the highest number of residents engaging in e-commerce transactions. A total of 10.2% of the population are active e-commerce sellers, while 16.7% belong to the buyer category. Research by IDN Times showed that e-commerce application users have been dominated by students, with a percentage of 44.2%.  The purpose of this study is to analyze the factors that influence students’ level of acceptance of e-commerce applications in Yogyakarta using the modified UTAUT 2. This is quantitative research with multiple linear regression models using SPSS software version 25 with a sample size of 303 people. Data analysis in this study was conducted in a few steps, including descriptive analysis, validity test, reliability test, classical assumption test and hypothesis testing. The results of this study indicate that the student’s level of acceptance of e-commerce applications is within good criteria. The variables that have a positive effect on the behaviour intention (BI) are performance expectancy (PE), effort expectancy (EE), social influence (SI), facilitating conditions (FC), hedonic motivation (HM), habit (HB), price value (PV), perceived risk (PR), perceived security (PS), and trust (TR) are variables that negatively affect the variable behaviour intention (BI). All independent variables affect the dependent variable or behaviour intention (BI) with a total of 63.3% and the difference with a total of 36.7% is caused by other factors not examined by the researcher.
Comparison of K-Nearest Neighbor, Support Vector Machine, Random Forest, and C 4.5 Algorithms on Indoor Positioning System
Authors: Astari M Rizky , Nuruzzaman Muhammad Taufiq , Sugiantoro Bambang
Published: December 2024

Today’s most common Positioning System applied is the Global Positioning System (GPS). Positioning System is considered accurate when outdoors, but it becomes a problem when indoors making it difficult to read the GPS signal. Many academics are actively working on indoor positioning solutions to address GPS's drawbacks. Because WiFi Access Point signals are frequently employed in multiple studies, they are used as research material. This study compares the classification algorithms KNN, SVM, Random Forest, and C 4.5 to see which algorithm provides more accurate calculations. The fingerprinting method was employed in the process of collecting signal strength data in each room of the Terpadu Laboratory Building at UIN Sunan Kalijaga using 30 rooms and a total dataset of 5,977 data. The data is utilized to run experiments to determine the location using various methods. According to the experimental data, the Random Forest algorithm achieves an accuracy rate of 83%, C4.5 81%, and KNN 80%, while the SVM method achieves the lowest accuracy rate of 57%.
Design and Development of an Edugame Arabic for Learning Media
Authors: Yudha Riwanto  , Inggrid Yanuar Risca Pratiwi  , Asri Wulan Septiana  , Fauzia Anis Sekar Ningrum  , Ajie Kusuma Wardhana
Published: December 2024

Learning media provides significant advantages to students by improving their learning experience through the use of multimedia applications, resulting in a more engaging and fascinating learning environment while reducing the monotony associated with traditional manual learning techniques. Digital learning material, provides a platform for interesting learning activities, encouraging a delightful and cost-effective learning experience. The impact of learning media is especially noticeable in the subject of the Arabic language. Arabic is traditionally regarded as a difficult language, and many students dislike this language course. However, the Edugame Arabic was created to overcome this issue. Using the GDLC process, which includes phases of initialization, pre-production, production, testing, and publishing. This game-learning application was evaluated through a testing phase that included groups of school students who were actively involved in Arabic language lessons. Edugame Arabic has successfully been installed and runs smoothly on various Android smartphones. Moreover, the game's offline capability allows users to continue their learning without an internet connection. The questionnaire responds, with users strongly agreeing that the app has an appealing design, an intriguing game premise, good material delivery, and considerable aid in learning Arabic. Furthermore, users generally acknowledged that the Edugame is simple to use and helps with vocabulary learning.
Design of a Web-Based E-Commerce Sales System for the Economic Empowerment of Tambak Fish Farmers
Authors: Siburian Dian Prima Trendi , Hartiyani Selvi Dwi , Wicaksono Ardy , Gustina Sapriani
Published: December 2024

This research addresses the economic challenges of fish farmers in Argomulyo Village, Cangkringan District, by developing a web-based e-commerce sales system. The primary issue identified is the limited market access experienced by these farmers. To address this, the study employs a qualitative research methodology using the Waterfall software development model and gathers data through observation, interviews, literature reviews, and questionnaires. The e-commerce platform aims to enhance economic opportunities for local fish farmers by providing a digital marketplace to overcome limited market access. Quantitative data was collected from 15 respondents using a questionnaire with 10 statements to evaluate the system. The analysis results show that the validity test (R Calculated > R Table) confirms all statements are valid, and reliability is tested with a Cronbach's Alpha of 0.958, exceeding the reference value of 0.6, indicating high reliability. The e-commerce system has proven effective in broadening market reach, boosting sales, and increasing farmers' income. The study results highlight the e-commerce system's positive impact on fish farmers' economic empowerment, demonstrating its potential to foster sustainable growth and market expansion in the digital era. This research provides valuable insights into the use of technology to enhance and advance the lives of farmers in rural communities.
Analysis of Public Sentiment Towards POLRI's Performance using Naive Bayes and K-Nearest Neighbors
Authors: Handika Yusuf , Hanif Isa Faqihuddin , Hasan Firman Noor
Published: December 2024

Using Twitter as a platform for sharing information includes tracking public perceptions of the performance of the Indonesian National Police (POLRI). Public sentiment assists as a gauge for evaluating POLRI's operational capabilities and supports decision-making processes to enhance the organization's reputation. However, raw public opinion data often requires careful analysis for decision-making. Hence, conducting sentiment analysis of Twitter data is crucial. This analytical process involves extracting and classifying opinions into neutral, positive, and negative sentiments. This study employs two distinct sentiment analysis methods: the Naive Bayes algorithm and the K-Nearest Neighbors. Analysis of 1285 tweets reveals prevailing satisfaction with POLRI's performance, indicated by many positive sentiments. However, there is also a notable number of negative feelings. The assessment from confusion matrix results demonstrate that the Naive Bayes algorithm achieves 99.03% accuracy, while the K-Nearest Neighbors algorithm achieves 95.33% accuracy. By leveraging insights from public opinion data, POLRI can make more accurate and timely decisions, enabling it to better fulfill the community's needs and expectations. This strategic use of data enhances service quality and bolsters POLRI's favorable image among the public fosters more harmonious relationships and enhances public trust in law enforcement agencies.
Comparison of Single Exponential Smoothing and Double Moving Average Algorithms to Forecast Beef Production
Authors: Tundo  , Rachmat Hidayat Insani  , Rasiban  , Untung Suropati
Published: December 2024

Beef is considered a high-value commodity as it is an important source of protein. Interest in beef continues to rise. Beef production has risen sharply in the past decade, but declined by 7,240.68 tons in 2020 amid coronavirus lockdowns. After that, in 2021, production reached 16,381.81 tons and continued to increase in 2022 and 2023. A precise method is required to forecast beef production. One way to predict beef production in Jakarta is using the Single Exponential Smoothing and Double Moving Average methods. The two algorithms are compared to get the lowest error rate. The methodology used in this research is the SEMMA (Sample, Explore, Modify, Model, and Assess) methodology. According to SAS Institute Inc., there are five stages in developing a system using the SEMMA methodology. After analyzing using MAPE, it is found that the algorithm with the smallest error value is the Single Exponential Smoothing algorithm with a percentage in the monthly period of 16% while for the annual period, it is 27% compared to other algorithms. The forecasting is quite accurate because the MAPE value for each algorithm used has an error of less than 31%.
Spatial Development of the Novosibirsk Region
Authors:   Institute of Economics and Industrial Engineering SB RAS, Kolomak Evgeniya ,   Novosibirsk National Research State University
Published: December 2024

The paper presents a study of differences in the economic development of municipalities in the Novosibirsk region. Based on official statistics, maps of the distribution across the territory are built for population, employment, revenue, profitability of sales, and the share of unprofitable enterprises. The conclusion is that there is a high degree of concentration of business activity around the regional capital. At the same time, not all municipalities of the Novosibirsk agglomeration are leaders in terms of growth rates and business efficiency, which raises the question of exhausting the resource of the positive effects of the agglomeration economy. Descriptive methods are complemented by an econometric analysis of the role of spatial factors in the economic development of territories. Regression estimates revealed the heterogeneity of the influence of external markets, the positive effects of inter-district relations dominate within the Novosibirsk agglomeration, but the negative effects of inter-municipal competition are more pronounced outside it. Further concentration of economic potential in the Novosibirsk agglomeration without a longer transmission of growth impulses to other urban and rural settlements will lead to a restraint on the development of the entire territory of the region. Regional policy should include institutions and mechanisms for the transition from mostly competitive relations between municipalities to the predominance of cooperative interests. It is also necessary to create conditions for the creation of new centers of economic growth in the region, their role can be performed by municipalities with a relatively high population, with a developed road network and with a predominantly industrial specialization of business activity
Spatial Organization of Global Value Chains in the Optical and Electronic Equipment Industry
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Shatunov Mikhail , Navrotskaya Natalia ,   St. Petersburg State University
Published: December 2024

The increasing complexity of global value chains, the trends of globalization and deglobalization, the desire of some developing countries for resourcing and niashoring, economic shocks and trade wars, all this leads to a reconfiguration of trade flows and has a particularly significant impact on high-tech sectors, which include the optical and electronic equipment sector. The results of this article are based on combining two approaches to the study of trade flows between countries: value-added trade and the decomposition of value added into domestic and foreign components using the input-output method and the network approach. The ADB MRIO input-output tables for 2017 and 2022 for 73 countries were used to build a global map of trade flows, and the ADB MRIO input-output tables for 2000, 2007–2022 for 63 countries were used to study the specifics of Russia’s participation in the GVCs. The result of the study was the construction of a network structure of the spatial organization of global production systems in the optical and electronic equipment industry, the definition of the characteristics and features of the network, as well as the specifics of Russia’s involvement in global value chains in this sector. The resulting network model made it possible to determine the presence of 6 clusters that form interconnections according to the «core-periphery» principle, as well as to identify the specifics of the formation and development of these clusters. The core of the model consists of three mega-level centers of the PRC, the USA and the Republic of Korea, around which three global clusters and three sub-cores have formed, controlled by the main cores, which stand out significantly from the general periphery, the centers of which are Japan, Germany and Taiwan. An analysis of the network’s dynamics over the period under study showed its following features: stability and stability, formation by industry rather than geographical basis, increased involvement in the GVCs between the cores on the one hand and large Asian economies and small European countries on the other. The analysis of the specifics of Russia’s participation in the global production system of the industry under study showed the predominance of upward links with a high content of domestic added value in exports, the presence of strong relationships with domestic enterprises, high localization of production and weak dynamics of involvement in the GVCs
Japan’s Economy: Reforms and Growth Strategies
Authors:   Economic Research Institute FEB RAS, Dyomina Yana , Mazitova Marina ,   Economic Research Institute FEB RAS
Published: December 2024

The article analyzes features of Japan’s economic development. The authors identified problems that led to a long period of stagnation and did not allow the economy to grow. Thus, in the context of globalization and digitalization, the export-oriented model of the Japanese economy with the dominant role of the state and a rigid corporate structure did not provide a quick and adequate response to new challenges of the global competitive environment. The return on capital and labor has decreased. There was a shortage in the labor market within the country due to the aging population, decreasing birth rate, traditions of the Japanese family (women leaving the labor market after marriage), strict migration policy, etc. The study also reveals main directions of reforms at the present stage and their impact on the Japanese economy. The results of reforms are evaluated ambiguously. The growth of domestic demand could not be achieved due to the high savings rate and a two-stage increase in the consumer tax rate. However, the labor market has been expanded by increasing the employment of women and citizens over 65 years old and slightly easing the norms of migration policy. In addition, foreign economic policy has been liberalized. The authors also defined growth strategies of the Japanese economy at the present stage. The exogenous shocks of recent years have partially offset the positive results of the reforms. However, such areas as the change of business models (to the B2B format), transition to carbon-free technologies, development of the tourism industry, active use of artificial intelligence in all areas, etc. contribute to the growth of the Japanese economy and form the basis of the economic development strategy implemented by the current government
Digital Potential of Russian Regions
Authors:   The Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, Department of State Administration and Public Policy, Savchenko Alexander , Borodina Tatiana ,   Institute of Geography of the RAS
Published: December 2024

The tasks of accelerated digital development of Russia, arising in the face of various external challenges, require solving the problems of digital inequality in the foreseeable future. Their solution is complicated, among other things, by a very significant variety of economic and innovative conditions of various regions of our country, and requires its comprehensive consideration. The study defines the concept of the digital potential of the country’s regions and presents a set of indicators for its assessment. The purpose of the study is to detail the ideas about the digital inequality of the regions of Russia based on the use of the concept of their digital potential. This goal is achieved by solving the problems of revealing four aspect digital potentials (personnel, technological, infrastructural and commercial), which allow characterizing the integrated digital potential of the country’s regions. Direct rank comparison and typological methods were used to assess the aspect and integral potential of the regions. The results of the assessment and comparison of regions by their aspect and integral digital potential allow us to come to a number of generalizations. Among the leaders are regions with the largest agglomerations, as well as a number of regions of new development in the North, while mainly old – developed industrial regions, as well as regions with a high proportion of rural population, lag behind. Leadership in different digital potentials does not necessarily coincide. However, a group of leaders in integral digital potential consisting of 13 regions stands ou
Analisis Mikroplastik Pada Air Minum Dalam Kemasan Di Kota Padang
Authors: Ikhram Muhammad , Fitrada Wathri , Riyandini Vina Lestari
Published: December 2024

Air minum adalah air yang melalui proses pengolahan atau tanpa proses pengolahan yang memenuhi syarat kesehatan dan dapat langsung diminum. Saat ini mikroplastik telah mencemari berbagai makanan dan minuman termasuk air minum dalam kemasan. Mikroplastik merupakan partikel plastik yang berukuran kurang dari 5 mm. Berdasarkan penelitian yang telah dilakukan pada AMDK asal Indonesia ditemukan mikroplastik pada AMDK yang tidak terpapar matahari. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menghitung kelimpahan dan menganalisis jenis mikroplastik pada Air Minum Dalam Kemasan di Kota Padang. Selain itu juga dilakukan Uji Kruskal Wallis untuk mengetahui perbedaan konsentrasi mikroplastik terhadap merek Air Minum Dalam Kemasan yang berbeda di Kota Padang. Sampel yang digunakan pada penelitian ini berjumlah 30 AMDK 600 ml yang berasal dari 3 merek berbeda. Analisis mikroplastik dilakukan melalui 2 tahapan, yaitu penyaringan dengan bantuan vacuum filter dan pengamatan menggunakan mikroskop. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa semua sampel AMDK telah terkontaminasi mikroplastik. Kelimpahan rata – rata mikroplastik yang ditemukan pada sampel AMDK terdapat pada rentang 5–11 partikel/L. Partikel mikroplastik yang ditemukan didominasi oleh partikel fragmen, lalu diikuti oleh fiber dan pellet. Berdasarkan hasil dari Uji Kruskal Wallis yang telah dilakukan didapatkan nilai output Asymp.Sig adalah sebesar 0,002 yang berarti ada perbedaan signifikan antara kelimpahan mikroplastik ketiga merek AMDK.  Drinking water is defined as water that meets the necessary health requirements for human consumption. It has been found that microplastics, which are plastic particles smaller than 5mm, have contaminated various foods and beverages, including bottled drinking water. Research conducted on bottled water from Indonesia has shown that microplastics were present in bottled water that had not been exposed to sunlight. This study aimed to determine the abundance and types of microplastics present in bottled drinking water in Padang City. Additionally, we conducted the Kruskal Wallis Test to identify any differences in microplastic concentrations among the different brands of bottled drinking water in Padang City. Our sample consisted of 30 bottles of 600 ml from three distinct brands. Microplastic analysis was conducted in two stages: filtering with a vacuum filter and observation under a microscope. The results indicate that the bottled water samples were contaminated with microplastics, with an average abundance of 5-11 particles/L.  Fragment particles were the most dominant type of microplastic found, followed by fibers and pellets, according to the results of the Kruskal-Wallis Test, the Asymp.Sig output value is 0.002, indicating a significant difference in microplastic abundance among the three bottled water brands.
Storage and Packaging Evaluation for Preserving Polyphenols in Black Garlic
Authors: Nurriyanti Anggita Halimah , Mardawati Efri , Nurhasanah Siti , Nurliasari Desy
Published: December 2024

Black garlic (Allium sativum L.) is produced through a controlled thermal aging process, enhancing its phenolic and flavonoid content and increasing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different storage temperatures (30°C, 35°C, and 40°C) and packaging materials (paper core–PC and aluminum foil–AF) on the stability of these bioactive compounds. Black garlic was prepared by aging single clove garlic at 74°C for 12 days using a fermenter. The aged garlic was then packaged in PC and AF and stored under specified conditions. Total phenolic content (TPC) was determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu method, while total flavonoid content (TFC) was measured with the aluminum chloride colorimetric method. Results indicated that higher storage temperatures led to an insignificant reduction in both phenolic and flavonoid contents, with AF packaging providing better retention due to its superior barrier properties (TPC = 2.62–3.51 mg GAE/g and TFC = 1.57–2.09 mg QE/g). At 35°C, PC packaging also showed comparable performance, suggesting its potential as a sustainable alternative (TPC = 2.92 mg GAE/g and TFC = 2.09 g QE/g). The study highlights the importance of optimizing storage conditions and packaging materials to preserve the functional properties of black garlic. These findings provide valuable insights for the food industry in developing effective storage strategies to enhance the benefits of black garlic.
Variants within the Ghrelin Gene - Association with HDL-Cholesterol, but Not with Body Mass Index
Authors: Hubáček Jaroslav A. , Bohuslavová R. , Škodová Z. , Adámková V.
Published: December 2024

Ghrelin is a hormone which influences eating habits, the amount of food ingested and the body's energy balance. We examined whether genetic variants in the ghrelin gene are associated with BMI, WHR and plasma lipid levels. We have evaluated the influence of ghrelin polymorphisms (Arg51>Gln, Leu72>Met and Gln90>Leu) on BMI, WHR, and plasma lipid levels in 1,191 males and 1,368 females representatively selected from the Czech population. Anthropometrical and biochemical parameters were analysed in two different years. In the entire population, we have detected 4.8% of carriers of the Gln51 allele, 14.2% carriers of the Met72 allele, and 10.9% of the Leu90 allele. Frequencies did not differ between males and females and alleles were not in linkage disequilibrium. BMI or WHR were not influenced by variants in the ghrelin gene. The ghrelin variant Leu72>Met was associated with elevated levels of plasma HDL-cholesterol. Compared to Leu/Leu homozygotes, the Met cariers had lower HDL-cholesterol concentrations in males (1.18 ± 0.29 mmol/l vs. 1.24 ± 0.35 mmol/l, P = 0.01) as well as in females (1.45 ± 0.35 mmol/l vs. 1.51 ± 0.38 mmol/l, P = 0.01). The other lipid parameters (total cholesterol and triglycerides) were not associated with this variant. There were no associations between other ghrelin variants (Arg51>Gln and Gln90>Leu) and analysed biochemical parameters. We conclude that in the Caucasian population, variations in the ghrelin gene could play a role in genetic determination of plasma levels of HDL-cholesterol, but they have no effect on BMI or WHR.
Multiplex Analysis of Cytokines Involved in Tumour Growth and Spontaneous Regression in a Rat Sarcoma Model
Authors: Strnádel Ján , Kverka M. , Horák V. , Vannucci L. , Usvald D. , Hlučilová J. , Plánská D. , Váňa P. , Reisnerová H. , Jílek F.
Published: December 2024

The aim of our study was to examine in vivo and in vitro cytokines produced by Lewis rat-derived R5-28 sarcoma cells. These cells produce rapidly growing tumours in approximately two weeks after subcutaneous inoculation. However, spontaneous tumour regression was noted in about 40% of animals. For an explanation of this phenomenon, we evaluated the profile of 19 cytokines during tumour growth and spontaneous regression by the use of "antibody array". To detect cytokines directly originated by the sarcoma, the R5-28 cells were cultivated in vitro and then both the supernatants and the cell lysates were analysed. Our experiments showed three cytokines (MCP-1, TIMP-1 and VEGF) to be produced by R5-28 cells in vitro. Moreover, in vivo, another three cytokines (TNF-α, β-NGF and LIX) were detected both in blood sera and tumour lysates, probably produced by immune and stromal cells during tumour growth. Changes in their expression after spontaneous regression are discussed.
Evaluating the ASEAN-India FTA: Implications for India's Black Pepper trade
Authors: Sabu Sachu Sara , Anil Kuruvila
Published: December 2024

The impact of the ASEAN-India Free Trade Agreement (AIFTA) on Indian black pepper was analysed using the SMART and gravity models. The reduction in tariff under AIFTA increased black pepper imports from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries after 2000 and caused a trade creation effect of 19.36 lakh US$. This allowed Indian consumers to benefitted from low-priced black pepper imports from ASEAN countries. Indonesia and Vietnam collectively accounted for nearly 100% of the trade creation. The distance between India and ASEAN was found to have a negative effect on trade, whereas the GDP of the importing country positively influenced the likelyhood of trade between India and ASEAN countries. The main variable of interest was the AIFTA dummy, which captured the effects of trade creation and trade diversion resulting from the regional trade agreement. The estimated coefficient of the AIFTA dummy was positive and significant, indicating a trade creation effect among AIFTA member countries as a result of the agreement.
Advances and trends in weed management: A comprehensive review
Authors: Aparna MV , Baskaran R , Harisudan C , Kalpana R , Boominanthan P , Jaghadeeswaran R
Published: December 2024

Weed management is a critical aspect of agricultural practices that can significantly impact crop yield and quality. As traditional methods face challenges such as herbicide resistance and environmental concerns, the agricultural sector is witnessing a shift towards innovative strategies for weed control. This review explores the emerging trends in weed management, focusing on sustainable and efficient approaches. Among them, one prominent trend is the adoption of agro ecological weed management strategies, which combine various control methods such as cultivation techniques, mechanical techniques, biological control, and reasonable herbicide use. This approach minimizes reliance on herbicides while maximizing weed suppression and preserving natural ecosystems. Another significant trend is developing and utilizing precision agriculture technologies for targeted weed control techniques such as satellite imaging, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and sensor-based systems. These innovations enable farmers to accurately identify and manage weeds, reducing herbicide usage and minimizing environmental impact. Furthermore, the exploration of alternative weed control methods, including thermal, electrical, and microwave-based technologies, is gaining momentum. These non-chemical approaches offer potential solutions to herbicide-resistant weeds and contribute to sustainable agricultural practices. Moreover, the integration of advanced breeding techniques and biotechnology for developing herbicide-resistant crops and enhancing allelopathic traits presents promising avenues for long-term weed management. In conclusion, this review highlights emerging technology for dealing with major problems, including increased understanding of weed biology linked with genomics; novel herbicide-resistant crops and redesigned weed-competing crops; multi-target herbicides; and enhanced biocontrol agents. When combined, these strategies could make up the elements of the next integrated packages designed to impede the emergence of new weed issues.
Synergistic role of rootstock and grafting in boosting growth, yield, and quality of cucumber cultivation
Authors: Sakthivel M , Kavitha M , Rani CI , Devrajan K , Vanitha K
Published: December 2024

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) is a widely grown and highly valued cucurbitaceous vegetable crop, commanding premium prices in the vegetable market. However, intensive cultivation and monocropping practices have led to significant challenges in cucumber production, particularly in greenhouses, due to root-knot nematode and soil-borne diseases. Grafting has emerged as an alternative approach to boost abiotic stress tolerance and mitigate root diseases caused by soil-borne pathogens, thereby improving crop productivity. A study was conducted during 2023-2024 on the farmer’s field to explore the interactive effects of various grafting techniques by grafting a hybrid cucumber scion onto various local rootstocks. The experiment evaluated the performance of the hybrid cucumber scion Emistar, grafted onto four rootstocks: fig-leaf gourd (Cucurbita ficifolia), pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo), ash gourd (Benincasa hispida), and bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria). Two grafting techniques-hole insertion and splice grafting, were tested using different scion-rootstock combinations. The study evaluated growth, yield, and fruit quality under controlled environmental conditions. The results indicated that the pumpkin rootstock outperformed the other rootstocks, particularly when grafted using the hole insertion techniques. This combination achieved the earliest flowering (26.33 days), longest plant growth (455.77 cm), and highest fruit yield (8.07 kg). In contrast, splice grafting on bottle gourd resulted in slower growth and lower yields. Additionally, hole insertion grafting on pumpkin produced superior fruit characteristics, including the longest fruits (16.43 cm), largest diameter (9.1cm), highest fruit weight (147.24 g), and the highest TSS content (2.85ºBrix). Correlation and principal component analysis (PCA) highlighted strong positive relationships between yield and growth traits, emphasizing the superiority of the pumpkin rootstock for cucumber grafting. The study showed vigorous rootstocks like pumpkin can significantly enhance cucumber growth and yield through improved nutrient uptake, hormone translocation, and optimized grafting techniques.
Sustainable diversification in Indian agriculture: Effectiveness of integrating horticultural crops as intercrops in mono-cropping coconut system
Authors: Samitha F , Senthamizh S B , Aneesa R M S , Sivakumar R , Sasikumar K
Published: December 2024

Coconut, also known as Kalpaviruksha, is a gift from nature that is grown all over the world for its many uses. The distinctive characteristics of the coconut tree indicate that mono-cropping coconut results in extremely low land use efficiency. Another drawback of mono-cropping from an economic standpoint is the substantial initial investment required to develop the crop until it reaches bearing age, which may be beyond the means of smallholders. In most coconut-growing countries, planting coconut alongside a range of other crops is a popular practice to maximise land use efficiency. It has been determined that over 100 distinct crop and system combinations can be cultivated as intercrops alongside coconut plantations. Intercropping is more efficient than mono-cropping and increases yield, if the components of the intercrop utilize natural resources in ways that complement each other's utilization of those resources, which generates a higher benefit-cost ratio than the sole crop. The relevance and possibilities of multiple-cropping and intercropping systems suitable for different coconut stands are covered in this article. The results provide an overview of coconut farming's lucrative and sustainable intercrop species that support the income of farmers, as well as the advantages, drawbacks, and prospects of several multiple-cropping systems. The paper concludes by outlining potential research avenues for the effective adaptation of different cropping systems based on coconut.
Socio-economic determinants of willingness to expand palmyrah palm cultivation: An econometric analysis
Authors: Subasri K , Senthilnathan S , Elanchezhiyan T , Jeyalakshmi P , Kannan Balaji , Swarnapriya R , Indumathi V M , Nirmala Devi M
Published: December 2024

The Palmyrah palm (Borassus flabellifer L.), often referred to as the "Tree of Life". It holds a significant cultural and economic significance, serving as a cornerstone for rural livelihoods and environmental sustainability. Despite its numerous advantages, the expansion of Palmyrah palm cultivation is influenced by a range of socio-economic factors. This study examines the socio-economic determinants affecting farmers’ willingness to expand Palmyrah palm cultivation in Vembar South Gram panchayat, located in the Thoothukudi district of Tamil Nadu, South India. To analyse the binary nature of the outcome variable, the Probit Econometric Model was employed to assess the factors influencing the likelihood of expanding Palmyrah cultivation based on various socio-economic parameters. The findings reveal that farming experience, higher income, and larger landholdings significantly increase the likelihood of expansion, whereas gender, occupation (agriculture), and family size are associated with a decreased likelihood. Notably, female landowners, non-agricultural workers, and farmers from smaller families with higher income levels are particularly inclined to expand Palmyrah cultivation. The study’s findings provides important insights for policymakers aiming to promote Palmyrah cultivation and foster rural economic development through targeted interventions that could effectively support the socio-economic well-being of the farming communities.
Adaptability of exotic crucifers in Indian agro-environments: A comparative study in Hyderabad and Coimbatore
Authors: Lohitha P , Savitha BK , Rani CI , Vanitha K , Iyanar K , Kumar GA
Published: December 2024

The Brassicaceae (Cruciferae) family comprises many cultivated plants; however, only cabbage and cauliflower are extensively cultivated in India. Numerous crops from this family remain exotic and uncommercialized within the country despite their successful cultivation in other regions. This study evaluates the adaptability of four exotic cole crops; red cabbage, broccoli, Chinese cabbage, and pakchoi grown under polyhouse and open-field conditions in Telangana (Hyderabad) and Tamil Nadu (Coimbatore) to assess their performance across diverse environmental conditions. The results indicated that head initiation occurred earlier in Hyderabad’s open fields, whereas in Coimbatore, all crops except Chinese cabbage were initiated earlier in polyhouses. In Hyderabad, red cabbage reached head maturity sooner under protected conditions, while the other crops matured faster in open fields. In Coimbatore, red cabbage and broccoli matured faster in polyhouses, while the remaining crops were harvested earlier in open fields. In Hyderabad, broccoli and Chinese cabbage demonstrated superior head attributes in polyhouses, whereas the other crops performed better in open fields. In Coimbatore, all crops showed improved head attributes under polyhouse conditions. In terms of yield, in Hyderabad, red cabbage yielded 7.90 kg and Chinese cabbage 5.15 kg, performing better in open fields, while broccoli and Pakchoi yielded more in polyhouses. In Coimbatore, red cabbage yielded 7.75 kg, broccoli 6.20 kg, Chinese cabbage 6.30 kg, and pakchoi 7.25 kg, all favoring polyhouse cultivation. This study highlights the potential to increase the commercial viability of exotic crops and enhance food diversity and sustainability in Indian agriculture.
Nano-diammonium phosphate enhances grain yield by modulating gas exchange traits and nutrient use efficiency in rice
Authors: Sweety RRB , Boominathan P , Senthil A , Jegadeeswari D , Kumar GP
Published: December 2024

Nutrients are primarily applied to crops through the soil to enhance productivity while maintaining crop and soil health. However, high doses of soil-applied nutrients often reduce nutrient use efficiency, increase cultivation costs, and contribute to environmental pollution. With their high surface area-to-volume ratio, Nano-formulated nutrients have emerged as effective alternatives, requiring lower doses and demonstrating superior nutrient use efficiency (NUE) compared to conventional fertilizers. This experiment was conducted to study the influence of Nano-Diammonium Phosphate (Nano-DAP) on physiological and yield-associated traits in rice and to assess the extent of replacement of soil application of nitrogen(N) and phosphorous fertilizers with foliar application of nano-form of DAP. Field trials included nine treatments, comprising 50% and 75% of the recommended dose of nitrogen and phosphorus (RDNP) and 100% of the recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF), and foliar application of conventional and nano-DAP. Foliar treatments were applied during the active tillering and panicle initiation stages. Among the treatments, 75% RDF and two foliar sprays of Nano-DAP performed better in terms of morpho-physiological parameters, particularly leaf area, dry matter production, photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, and number of productive tillers compared to 100% RDF. Furthermore, the NUE of Nano-DAP treatments was significantly higher, reflecting an improved ability of the rice plants to utilize the nanoform nutrients, resulting in enhanced yield effectively.
Phenotypic and genotypic insights into rice germplasm resistance against a biotype of the brown planthopper Nilaparvata lugens (stal)
Authors: Thornavalli B , Venugopal S , Soundararajan RP , Mohankumar S , Suresh R , Baskaran V , Alagar M , Geetha B , Vignesh S , Manonmani S
Published: December 2024

This study explores the resistance of rice landraces, genotypes, and wild rice to the South Asian brown planthopper (BPH) population, a significant pest affecting rice crops. Phenotypic screening identified a few landraces, genotypes, and wild rice varieties with resistance to the South Asian biotype, including, PTB-33, Oryza officinalis, O. nivara, Adukkan, Vellai Kombi Samba and Onamuttan which exhibited damage scores ? 3 Moderate resistance was observed in IR 36, ARC 10550, T12, Manvilayan, Rathu Heenati, CR 2711, Mysore Malli, Swarnalata, Pokkali, Babawee, and ASD 7, while other varieties demonstrated varying levels of susceptibility. Molecular analysis using SSR markers revealed the presence of BPH resistance genes across these genotypes. Notably, Onamuttan and Vellai kombi samba exhibited a broad resistance gene profile, while Adukkan, Manvilayan possess two BPH-resistant genes. Conversely, ASD 7 and Rathu Heenati, despite possessing several resistance gene markers, displayed moderate resistance. This study underscores the potential of integrating resistant genotypes into breeding programs, employing SSR markers for precise gene mapping and marker-assisted selection. The combined phenotypic and genotypic data provide valuable insights for advancing rice breeding strategies for sustainable BPH management and improved pest resistance.