bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ANALISIS YURIDIS PERGANTIAN JENIS KELAMIN DALAM HUKUM ISLAM (Tinjauan Penetapan Nomor 30/Pdt.P/2022/PN Pwt)
Authors: Haryanto Muhammad Irsyad , Prihatinah Tri Lisiani , Faradz Haedah
Published: May 2024

Pada dasarnya manusia diciptakan dengan jenis kelamin laki-laki dan perempuan. Realita atau kenyataan yang berkembang dalam masyarakat modern saat ini, telah banyak ditemui problematika pergantian kelamin. Pergantian jenis kelamin merupakan suatu hal baru yang ada di Indonesia dan mempunyai perdebatan. Penelitian ini menarik untuk dikaji dan dilakukan terhadap Putusan Pengadilan Negeri Purwokerto Nomor 30/Pdt.P/2022/PN. Pwt terkait adanya permohonan yang dilakukan oleh Pemohon yaitu Faqieh Al Amien mengenai permohonan pergantian jenis kelamin. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pertimbangan hukum hakim dalam menjustifikasi unsur-unsur pergantian jenis kelamin dan untuk menganalisis akibat hukum dari adanya pergantian jenis kelamin.Permasalahan dalam penelitian ini adalah bagaimana Pertimbangan Hukum Hakim dalam menolak permohonan penggantian jenis kelamin pada penetapan pengadilan nomor 30/pdt.p/2022/PN.Pwt dan bagaimana akibat hukum bagi seseorang yang telah melakukan penggantian jenis kelamin menurut hukum Islam. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode yuridis normatif dengan pendekatan kasus, perundang-undangan, dan doktrinal, spesifikasi penelitian menggunakan perspektif analisis, sumber data menggunakan data sekunder dengan metode penyajian dalam bentuk teks naratif dan disusun secara sistematis dan rapih. Metode analisis yang digunakan yaitu normatif kualitatif.Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa pertimbangan hukum hakim yang menyatakan bahwa Pemohon melakukan pergantian jenis kelamin merupakan suatu hal yang bertentangan dengan norma agama dan norma masyarakat itu sendiri. Akan tetapi, dalam pertimbangan hukum hakim itu sendiri tidak menjelaskan secara rinci peraturan apa yang dilanggar baik dari hukum positif di Indonesia sendiri maupun dari hukum Islam sehingga hakim dalam memutuskan hanya berdasarkan fakta yang terjadi dalam persidangan. Akibat hukum dari adanya pergantian jenis kelamin juga berdampak pada hubungan Pemohon itu sendiri dengan masyarakat sekitar, keabsahan suatu perkawinan, dan dalam hal pembagian kewarisan itu sendiri.
Perkembangan Perlindungan Hukum Perempuan Terhadap Kekerasan Seksual di Indonesia
Authors: Rahayu Maharani Mustika , Prihatinah Tri Lisiani , Prihatinah Tri Lisiani , Legowo Pramono Suko , Legowo Pramono Suko
Published: May 2024

Kekerasan seksual merupakan isu yang menyebabkan kekhawatiran dalam masyarakat, setidaknya dalam dua dasawarsa terakhir, kasus kekerasan seksual konsisten mendominasi kasus kekerasan terhadap perempuan (KtP) di Indonesia. Setelah diberlakukannya Undang-Undang Nomor 12 Tahun 2022 tentang Tindak Pidana Kekerasan Seksual, Undang-Undang ini diharapkan mampu menjadi payung hukum perlindungan terhadap korban kekerasan seksual.  Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui perkembangan perlindungan hukum perempuan terhadap kekerasan seksual di Indonesia serta untuk mengetahui apa urgensi disahkannya Undang-Undang Tindak Pidana Kekerasan Seksual. Metode penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode yuridis normatif, dengan spesifikasi penelitian deskriptif analitis. Penelitian ini menggunakan data sekunder yang diperoleh melalui studi kepustakaan dan diuraikan secara sistematis. Pada penelitian ini dapat disimpulkan bahwa perkembangan hukum terkait perlindungan perempuan korban kekerasan seksual terus berjalan ke arah yang lebih baik seiring dengan dibentuknya lembaga-lembaga penegak hak asasi manusia, serta perbaikan substansi hukum dalam peraturan perundang-undangan. Undang-Undang Nomor 12 Tahun 2022 memiliki nilai urgensi yang penting sebab terdapat terobosan-terobosan hukum baru yang dapat mengakomodasi perlindungan hukum perempuan yang selama ini belum dapat dipenuhi peraturan perundang-undangan sebelumnya.
Jaminan Keamanan Hakim dalam Mewujudkan Independensi Peradilan
Authors: Purindrasari Fara Cahya , Zain Talitha Hafiz
Published: May 2024

Hakim merupakan profesi yang rawan mendapatkan ancaman, gangguan ataupun tekanan, dengan banyaknya aksi penyerangan terhadap hakim seperti penyerangan dua orang hakim oleh pengacara menggunakan ikat pinggang. Jaminan keamanan hakim dari gangguan-gangguan tersebut harus secara nyata dilaksanakan untuk mewujudkan independensi peradilan agar terbebas dari pengaruh atau intervensi pihak lain, namun jaminan keamanan hakim saat ini di Indonesia masih lemah karena menemui beberapa tantangan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis permasalahan sulitnya terwujudnya jaminan keamanan hakim yang nantinya akan bermuara pada independensi peradilan. Metode penelitian yang digunakan dalam dalam penelitian ini adalah metode kepustakaan (library research) dengan mengkaji dari berbagai sumber seperti buku, jurnal maupun tulisan hukum dan penelitian ini juga menggunakan metode yuridis normatif yaitu dengan mengkaji norma-norma dan kaidah-kaidah hukum, perundang-undangan, teori-teori dan doktrin hukum, yurisprudensi. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa ada hubungan antara jaminan keamanan hakim dengan terwujudnya independensi peradilan, hal ini karena jaminan keamanan hakim sangat berkaitan erat dengan independensi peradilan dimana dengan kurangnya jaminan keamanan hakim membuat hakim akan terpengaruh atau mendapatkan gangguan dari berbagai pihak termasuk cabang kekuasaan lain sehingga menyebabkan peradilan tidak benar-benar merdeka.
Emergence of Time from Primordial Space and Expansion of Space with Time
Authors: Rebhan Eckhard
Published: May 2024

A model of space-time is presented, whose origin is set before the appearance of any universe. It uses concepts of previous work, a central one being that the information about the laws of nature is stored locally everywhere in space such that all physical processes obey them. Since information storage is bound to matter or energy, space is assumed to consist of dark energy (DE), which thus assumes an importance far beyond its function as a stopgap for an energy deficit in our universe ( U ). The primordial state (PS) is a timeless and relatively large space of 3 dimensions described by a Wheeler DeWitt (WDW) equation, whose solution is interpreted as an arrangement of very many space quanta and possesses properties that remind of the time-honored concept of the unmoved mover. The comparison of WDW solutions belonging to different mass densities of the DE favors one in which the space quanta are mini black holes. This allows the space quanta to be imagined as mass points which are kept at a distance compatible with the quantum volume by the Pauli principle or something equivalent. Triggered by a dramatic increase in probability, the PS is followed by a time-controlled sequence of quantized expansion states (ES i ). The concomitant emergence of time occurs in a lightning huge crash, consuming almost all DE of the PS. The subsequent quantized ES i emerge from a WDW equation, novelly derived from a solution of the modified cosmic momentum equation, which classically describes an exponential space expansion (CS). The huge volme of the ES i is also used as size of the PS. Information is assumed to be geometrically stored in arrangements of space quanta similar to how genetic information is stored in DNA molecules. During the CS information must be transferred from already existing "information quanta" to new ones. This requires time, slows down the expansion and is taken into account by a friction term in the cosmological momentum equation thus modified. Since the Friedmann-Lemaître (FL) equation remains fully valid, the model is widely based on recognized equations, so that some results may be understood as interpretations.
Comprehensive Review of Canine Entropion: Types, Surgical Techniques, and Prognosis
Authors: Estrada-Araya Alejandra , Macuer-Guzmán Johan , Echeverria-Jaque Cecilia , Freidl Florina , Cifuentes-Castro Camila , Giovagnoli-Vicuña Claudia
Published: May 2024

Entropion is a condition characterized by the total or partial inversion of the eyelid margin, resulting in contact between the outer skin and the corneal or conjunctival surface, and sometimes both. This condition can affect various animals, including horses, pigs, goats, sheep, rabbits, felines, and particularly canines. It typically manifests in the lower lid's lateral portion but can affect any part of the lid. This contact between eyelashes or facial hair and the cornea or conjunctiva leads to severe irritation, causing self-inflicted trauma, as evidenced by clinical signs of pain, irritation, ulcerations, and vision loss. Entropion can be classified as primary (congenital or developmental) or secondary (spastic and scarring). Diagnosis relies on clinical signs, the animal's history, and its breed. It's essential to assess the degree of entropion in the dog without applying topical anesthesia. This study conducts a literature review on surgical techniques for correcting various types of entropion in canines.
Whole-Genome Deep Sequencing of the Healthy Adult Nasal Microbiome
Authors: Cannon Mark , Ferrer Gustavo , Tesch Mari , Schipma Matthew
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to determine shifts in microbial populations regarding richness and diversity from the daily use of a popular over-the-counter nasal spray. In addition, the finding of nasal commensal bacterial species that overlap with the oral microbiome may prove to be potential probiotics for the “gateway microbiomes.” Nasal swab samples were obtained before and after using the most popular over-the-counter (OTC) nasal spray in 10 participants aged 18–48. All participants were healthy volunteers with no significant medical histories. The participants were randomly assigned a number by randomizing software and consisted of five men and five women. The sampling consisted of placing a nasal swab atraumatically into the nasal cavity. The samples were preserved and sent to Northwestern University Sequencing Center for whole-genome deep sequencing. After 21 days of OTC nasal spray use twice daily, the participants returned for further nasal microbiome sampling. The microbial analysis included all bacteria, archaea, viruses, molds, and yeasts via deep sequencing for species analysis. The Northwestern University Sequencing Center utilized artificial intelligence analysis to determine shifts in species and strains following nasal spray use that resulted in changes in diversity and richness.
A Manipulable Entrance Honey Bee Hive System Allowing Bees to Forage outside Part of the Day Improved Zucchini Pollination in Greenhouses and Reduced Damage to the Colonies
Authors: Gomes Cássia R. A. , Batista Mateus A. M. , Ferraz Yara M. M. , Trivellato Matheus F. , Siniscalchi Gustavo A. , Polycarpo Gustavo V. , Rigobelo Everlon C. , De Jong David , Nicodemo Daniel
Published: May 2024

Honey bee colonies rapidly decline when confined to greenhouses, increasing pollination rental costs as they need to be replaced frequently. We tested a hive system with entrances that can be manipulated to direct bees to inside or outside greenhouses containing a zucchini crop. In one greenhouse, the bees could only forage inside for 15 days; in another, bees were directed to the inside from 5 to 9 AM, after which they foraged outside. This procedure was repeated two more times in each greenhouse with new hives. Data was collected on how the number of bee flower visits affected fruit production, the frequency of flower visits, and the amount of bee brood and food in the hives. Flowers visited by bees four times or more set more and larger fruit. The frequency of flower visits by bees from the hives confined to the greenhouse was reduced after eight days; it was not reduced in the greenhouse with bees that could forage outside. Bee brood area was reduced in the colonies that were confined to the greenhouse, while it was maintained in the semiconfined hives. The hive system with controllable entrances proved effective for pollination, while causing less damage to the bees.
Proposal of a New Differential High-Sensitivity Refractometer for Simultaneous Measurement of Two Refractive Indices and Their Differences
Authors: Svirskis Simons , Kozlovs Vladimirs , Merkulovs Dmitrijs
Published: May 2024

The refractive index of a liquid serves as a fundamental parameter reflecting its composition, thereby enabling the determination of component concentrations in various fields such as chemical research, food industry, and environmental monitoring. Traditional methods for refractive index (RI) measurement rely on light deflection angles at interfaces between the liquid and a material of known refractive index. In this paper, the authors present a new differential refractometer for highly sensitive measurement of RI differences between two liquid samples. Using a configuration with two cells equipped with flat parallel plates as measuring elements, the instrument facilitates accurate analysis. Namely, the sensor signals from both the solution and the solvent cuvette are generated simultaneously with one laser pulse, reducing the possible fluctuations of the laser radiation intensity. Our evaluation shows the high sensitivity of RI measurements (< 7 · 106), so this differential refractometer can be proposed not only as a high-sensitivity sensing tool that can be used for mobile detection of nanoparticles in solution samples, but also to determine the level of environmental nano-pollution using water (including rain, snow) samples from various natural as well as industrial sources, thus helping to solve some important environmental problems.
A Critical Review of CPT-based Correlations for Shear Wave Velocity in North Sea Soils
Authors: Stuyts Bruno , Weijtjens Wout , Jurado Carlos Sastre , Devriendt Christof , Kheffache Anis
Published: May 2024

The geotechnical characterisation of offshore wind farm sites requires measurement or estimation of the small-strain shear stiffness Gmax of the subsoil. This parameter can be derived from shear wave velocity Vs measurements if the bulk density of the soil is known. Since direct measurements of Vs are generally not available at all foundation locations in a wind farm, CPT-based correlations are often used to determine location-specific stiffness parameters for foundation design. Existing correlations have mostly been calibrated to onshore datasets which may not contain the same soil types and stress conditions found in the North Sea. The distinct geological history of the North Sea necessitates a critical review of these existing CPT-based correlations. They are evaluated against an extensive database of in-situ Vs measurements in the Southern North Sea. The importance of modelling the stress-dependent nature of Vs is highlighted and a novel stress-dependent model for Vs from CPT data is presented. As the small-strain stiffness is used as an input to foundation response calculations, the model uncertainty of the correlation can introduce significant uncertainty in the resulting foundation response. This transformation uncertainty is quantified for each of the correlations evaluated in this study and shows important variations.
The Use of Pareto Analysis and Pilots Testing with New Generation RO Membranes to Take Decision for the Improvement of the Energy Efficiency
Authors: Muguirrima Paulino , Chirinza Nicolau , Zerpa Federico A. Leon , Ramos Martín Alejandro , Mendieta-Pino Carlos Alberto
Published: May 2024

In this study is considered the design and implementation of pilots in desalination plants, in a systematic way, to evaluate energy improvements in water desalination processes. Pilot tests with the latest generation of reverse osmosis membranes in large desalination plants are becoming increasingly common, as small-scale experiments are carried out on the operation of new generation membranes with better salt rejection and lower energy consumption, to achieve the best water quality required for each case at the lowest possible cost. In this way, pilot tests are being carried out before the decision is made whether or not to change the reverse osmosis membranes, as this represents a significant investment and we minimize the risk of making a mistake in order to ensure the best results in terms of energy consumption, operating costs and reducing the environmental impact while complying with the required water quality. In this case, the Pareto analysis is used to highlight the 2 or 3 most significant causes whose treatment affects more than 80% of the possible energy improvement to be implemented. In this sense, figure 3 below shows the Pareto diagram for the energy improvement of N plants in a given territory. A series of factors that can affect this energy improvement have been numbered from 1 to 7, such as the seawater intake, the decision on the membranes, the energy recuperators, the high-pressure pump, the decisions on the pre-treatment, the feed pump or the post-treatment. The Pareto diagram has been studied at territorial level with a total of 180 seawater desalination plants. The novelty of this article is to apply Pareto diagram to a study of a total of 180 seawater desali-nation plants at territorial level in Canary Islands.
Suicide Epidemic in a Medium-Sized City in Brazil Reveals Itself as a Youth Problem: A Survey
Authors: RUBATINO RODRIGUES JULIANO FLAVIO , Rodrigues Lívia , Rubatino Fernando , Atalaia da Silva Kelly , Rodrigues Franciany , Karan Barbosa Pedro Marco , Carbone Carneiro Marcelo , Goulart Junior Edward , Godoy Moacir , Araújo Filho Gerardo , Fischer Hannes , Payão Spencer
Published: May 2024

Contrary to what has been happening in most countries in the world, suicide mortality in Brazil has been increasing since 2016. To identify the epidemiological profile that may be associated with this increase in suicidal behavior in the population, we looked for a city with low rates of suicide mortality until 2016 and in which had a detectable growing epidemic wave in recent years to better elucidate the issue. This study aims to identify factors associated with suicidal ideation, suicidal planning, suicide attempts, and suicide.A validated questionnaire was used - Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin index (KMO) = .86 (acceptable greater than .7) and intraclass correlated coefficient (ICC) = .98 (acceptable greater than .9). Data collected was obtained by sampling for the convenience of the online questionnaire with a minimum sample of 400 respondents. The general population of Marília’s city, a medium-sized city in São Paulo state of Brazil, voluntarily responded to the questionnaire. Prevalence data was described in ratios and incidence was described in tables. The association was measured by factor analysis. The state government's data information platform (DataSUS) was consulted to verify the incidence of suicides from 2016 to 2023. The prevalence ratio of suicide attempts in people with mental disorders was 8.09%. There was a 600% increase in the incidence of suicide from 2016 to 2023 among young adults. Interpersonal problems were highly prevalent in people with suicidal ideation, suicidal planning, and suicide attempts. Heroism appears to be a suicidal equivalent and may be associated with most young deaths. Heroic behavior demonstrated a prevalence of 66.1% for committing tragic suicide. We get c2 of 31.4 for 18 degrees of freedom (p=0.026) of 10 representative variables in factor analysis with eight of the 10 variables demonstrating an association for one component. The young population has demonstrated epidemically growing suicide rates. Social segregation can affect young people's social lives and increase suicidal behavior.
A Secure Rubber Supply Chain Management System Based on Hyperledger Fabric Blockchain: A Use Case in Cambodia
Authors: Keo Ratanak , Firdaus Muhammad , Rhee Kyung-hyune
Published: May 2024

Conventional traceability systems in Cambodian agriculture, such as Rubber Supply Chain Management (RSCM), often struggle to provide timely data and fair market prices, leading to mistrust among stakeholders, exploitation by intermediaries, and hindering progress towards ethical sourcing and sustainable practices. This research aims to showcase the potential of integrating blockchain technology, the Internet of Things (IoT), the InterPlanetary File System (IPFS), and Differential Privacy (DP) methods to empower Cambodian rubber farmers. By enhancing transparency, facilitating fair pricing, and promoting sustainable methods in the rubber industry, this integrated approach leverages Hyperledger Fabric (HLF) to create a decentralized and secure system for tracking rubber from its source to the end consumer. Integration with IPFS ensures secure and easily accessible data storage, further enhancing the system’s reliability. Additionally, the implementation of differential privacy techniques safeguards confidential data during information sharing among farmers and supply chain stakeholders, minimizing potential privacy concerns. This comprehensive system encourages consumers to make ethical and sustainable alternative options by providing accessible information on harvesting methods, processing procedures, labor conditions, and environmental impacts. The potential benefits extend beyond Cambodia, serving as a model for other developing countries aiming to modernize and enhance the agricultural distribution networks. Our results show that transaction send rates (TPS) and throughput in systems with and without differential privacy grow with increased transaction volumes. However, the system without differential privacy achieves greater scalability and efficiency above a certain threshold. However, it offers a slightly reduced latency, reflecting a trade-off between privacy and performance efficiency in blockchain-based agricultural traceability systems.
Phytoene and Phytoene-Rich Microalgae Extracts Extend Lifespan in C. elegans and Protect against Amyloid-β Toxicity in an Alzheimer’s Disease Model
Authors: Morón-Ortiz Ángeles , Karamalegos Antonis A , Mapelli-Brahm Paula , Ezcurra Marina , Meléndez-Martínez Antonio J.
Published: May 2024

The role of foods is shifting from focusing on the provision of energy and basic nutrients to also include bioactive compounds that prevent the development of chronic age-related diseases. Mi-croalgae offer a source of nutritional compounds with important health effects, and have the po-tential for production of health-promoting products, without increasing agricultural land use and negatively impacting the environment. Here we investigate the health effects of microalgal ex-tracts with high levels of the colourless carotenoid phytoene. Phytoene is widely available from dietary sources and can be detected across different tissues in the human body. However, it is usually regarded as a precursor for the synthesis of other carotenoids, rather than a bioactive molecule. We utilised the model organism C. elegans to show that phytoene-rich extracts from Chlorella sorokiniana and Dunaliella bardawil have anti-ageing properties. The extracts protect against oxidative damage and amyloid-β42 proteotoxicity (a major pathology of Alzheimer's disease), and extends lifespan. We show that pure phytoene also has these anti-ageing effects, suggesting that phytoene is a bioactive molecule with positive effects on ageing and longevity.
Conventional Machining of Metal Matrix Composites towards Sustainable Manufacturing – Present Scenario and Future Prospects
Authors: Gutema Endalkachew Mosisa , Lemu Hirpa Gelgele
Published: May 2024

This study provides an in-depth review of the available literature on metal composite material machining, focusing on traditional machining operations such as turning, milling, shaping, drilling, and grinding. The motivation for the study is that this composite type has emerged as a vital material in applications requiring functionality, resilience, cost-effective operation, low consumption of energy and lightweight. Despite its superior characteristics, the manufacturing complexity and poor machinability of metal matrix composites have been the primary barriers to its adoption. Nevertheless, there is a reduction of exceptional efficiency, increase in surface roughness, tool wear and so on in metal matrix composites throughout machining. As a result, this review gives a comprehensive investigation of metal matrix composite machining and effect on process parameters and procedures. Furthermore, this study distinguishes metal matrix composites towards sustainable manufacturing and the metals employed by the researchers, as well as the gaps discovered for future recommendations in metal-based composites.
Early-Life Feeding Exposure Impacts Brain Development in a Neonatal Piglet Model – a Pilot Study
Authors: Nuñez Laurel A , Fehrenkamp Bethaney D , McDonough Ashley , Piaskowski Julia , Chen Yimin
Published: May 2024

Human milk (HM) feedings are associated with reduced risks of neurodevelopmental and neurocognitive delays and systemic inflammatory diseases in infants born prematurely and/or at a low birth weight. Utilizing a neonatal piglet model, HM feedings were compared to bovine milk-derived infant formula (IF)-feedings with the aim of understanding the underlying mechanisms involved in reducing these risks. Six male piglets at postnatal-day (PD)2 were randomized into two feeding groups: HM-fed (n = 3) or IF-fed (n = 3) for 28 days. At 3- and 4-weeks-old, piglet memory and learning performance were assessed using novel object recognition (NOR). At PD30 piglets were euthanized, and whole brains were excised, weighed, and preserved for further analyses, and brain microglial morphology, and systemic inflammatory cytokines were quantified. During NOR, HM-fed piglets had significantly more non-novel revisits at both 3- and 4-weeks-old compared to IF-fed piglets. Microglia of HM-fed piglets had longer processes, more branch points, more endpoints, and a larger territorial volume compared to IF-fed piglets at PD30. In a neonatal piglet model, HM-feedings may improve cognition and reduce brain inflammatory response compared to IF-feedings.
Agrifood Sustainability Transitions in Firms and Industry: A Bibliographic Analysis of Research Themes
Authors: Lees Nic J , Sivakumar Sivashankar , Lucock Xiaomeng
Published: May 2024

There is a growing consensus that the modern food system lies at the centre of the grand challenges facing humanity and requires urgent and profound changes in the way that food is produced, processed, distributed and consumed. This review analyses sustainability transitions within agrifood systems, focusing on the role of firms and industries as defined by the Sustainable Transitions Research Network (STRN). This paper conducts the first systematic literature review using bibliometric analysis to assess the current state of research on this theme. The findings reveal a significant increase in publications related to firms and industries within agrifood sustainability transitions. Furthermore, the current research is geographically concentrated in the European Union. The review identifies four key themes in the literature based on co-occurrence of keywords. These are agriculture, innovation, governance, food systems and agroecology. The review identifies increasing awareness of the role of farmers in driving sustainability transitions at the farm level. Furthermore, there is an increasing awareness of the interrelated characteristics of the agrifood system which acknowledges the need for sustainable innovations to occur at multiple stages of the agrifood system. It also shows that there is growing evidence that innovations can occur through disruptive as well as incremental innovation, and highlights the importance of governance influencing transitions. The literature raises questions about Alternative Food Networks as sustainable innovations, their potential for significant change in the established food system and the validity of their claims to food equity and environmental sustainability. A key theme emerging from the literature is an ecological perspective that identifies the complex biological processes and ecosystems as an integral part of agricultural production. These findings provide a greater understanding of the current literature landscape of agrifood sustainable transitions relating to firms and industries and lay a foundation for future research.
Invasive Fungal Infections of the Head & Neck: A Tertiary Hospital Experience
Authors: Hou Tieying , Bell W. Robert , Mesa Hector
Published: May 2024

From the existing millions of fungal species only a few cause disease. In this study, we investigated invasive fungal infections in the head and neck over a 19-year period (2005 to 2024) at a large academic healthcare system. Among 413 cases, 336 were noninvasive, and 77 were invasive. The highest incidence of invasive infections occurred in the sinonasal cavities, with a 15-fold difference compared to other sites. Most infections affected adults over 40 years old. The most common organisms were Mucorales (51%), hyaline molds (29%), and Candida (11%). Risk factors included malignancy, transplant, diabetes, and illicit drug use. Mortality was high in patients with malignancy and/or transplant. Infections affecting the mandible were usually a complication of osteoradionecrosis and were associated with coinfection of Candida and Actinomyces. At other sites, infections were rare and were usually the result of penetrating injuries or immunosuppression. Treatment typically involved a combination of antifungals and surgical procedures.
Remote Sensing Image Harmonization Method for Fine Grained Ship Classification
Authors: Zhang Jingpu , Zhong Ziyan , Wei Xingzhuo , Wu Xianyun , Li Yunsong
Published: May 2024

Target recognition and fine-grained ship classification in remote sensing face the challenges of high inter-class similarity and sample scarcity. A transfer fusion-based ship image harmonization algorithm is proposed to overcome these challenges. This algorithm designs a feature transfer fusion strategy based on the combination of region aware instantiation and attention mechanism. Implement adversarial learning through image harmony generator and discriminator module to generate realistic remote sensing ship harmony images. Furthermore, the do-main encoder and domain discriminator modules are responsible for extracting feature representations of foreground and background, and further aligning ship foreground with remote sensing ocean background features through feature discrimination. Compared with other advanced image conversion techniques, our algorithm delivers more realistic visuals, improving classification accuracy for six ship types by 3% and twelve types by 2.94%, outperforming Sim2RealNet. Finally, a mixed dataset containing data augmentation and harmonizing samples and real data was proposed for the fine-grained classification task of remote sensing ships. Evaluation experiments were conducted on 8 typical fine-grained classification algorithms, and the accuracy of fine-grained classification for all categories of ships was analyzed. The experimental results show that the mixed dataset proposed in this paper effectively alleviates the long tail problem in real datasets, and the proposed remote sensing ship data augmentation framework performs better than state-of-the-art data augmentation methods in fine-grained ship classification tasks.
Correlations between Selected Blood Markers of Hematological Profile and Milk Components in Dairy Cows
Authors: Mordak Ryszard , Popiel Jarosław , Dobrzański Zbigniew , Kołacz Roman , Bielas Wiesław
Published: May 2024

Clinical and laboratory diagnostics are particularly important in monitoring the internal homeostasis of the body in high-yielding animals, especially in dairy cows, whose metabolism is under constant pressure to obtain high parameters of milk production and reproduction. Knowledge of laboratory test results and relationships based on significant correlations between various milk and blood parameters may be very useful in veterinary diagnostics and helpful in cattle practice in order to protect animal health and the quality of milk production. The aim of the study was to analyze the correlation between selected hematological biomarkers such as white blood corpuscles (WBC), red blood corpuscles (RBC), hemoglobin concentration (HGB), hematocrit (HCT), platelets (PLT), erythrocyte mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin content (MHC), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and selected quantitative-qualitative parameters of cow’s milk such as current milk production, somatic cells count (SCC), colony of bacteria forming units (CFU), milk fat (MF), milk protein (MP), milk lactose (ML), milk solids (S), solids non-fat in milk (SNF), daily milk production. Samples were collected three times at daily intervals from 11 clinically healthy late-lactation dairy cows obtaining 33 sets of test results. This repeated study of cows allowed for obtaining a homogeneous group in order to determine statistical correlations between selected blood and milk parameters. Many significant correlations were found between the examined parameters. In cows, significant positive correlations were recorded between milk production and HGB, HCT, MCV or MHC. Significant negative correlations were also found between SCC and HGB, SCC and HCT, SNF and MCV, SNF and MHC, and between MF and RBC.
A Situation Analysis of the Capacity of Laboratories in Zambia to Conduct Surveillance of Antimicrobial Resistance: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Challenges
Authors: Shempela Doreen Mainza , Mudenda Steward , Kasanga Maisa , Daka Victor , Kangongwe Mundia Hendrix , Kamayani Mapeesho , Sikalima Jay , Yankonde Baron , Kasonde Cynthia Banda , Nakazwe Ruth , Mwandila Andrew , Cham Fatim , Njuguna Michael , Simwaka Bertha , Morrison Linden , Chizimu Joseph Yamweka , Muma John Bwalya , Chilengi Roma , Sichinga Karen
Published: May 2024

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a public health problem exacerbated by the overuse and misuse of antibiotics and an inadequate capacity of laboratories to conduct AMR surveillance. This study assessed the capacity of laboratories in seven faith-based hospitals to conduct bacteriology, AMR testing and surveillance in Zambia. This multi-facility, cross-sectional exploratory study was conducted from February 2024 to April 2024. We collected and analysed data using the self-scoring Laboratory Assessment of Antibiotic Resistance Testing Capacity (LAARC) tool. This study found an overall score of 39%, indicating a low capacity of laboratories to conduct AMR surveillance. The highest capacity score was 47%, while the lowest was 25%. Only one hospital had full capacity (100%) to utilise a Laboratory Information System (LIS). Three hospitals had good capacity to perform data management with scores of 83%, 85%, and 95%. Only one hospital had full capacity (100%) to process specimens, and only one hospital had good safety requirements for a microbiology laboratory, with a score of 89%. This study demonstrates that all the assessed hospitals have a low capacity to conduct AMR surveillance. Therefore, there is an urgent need to strengthen the microbiology capacity of laboratories to enhance surveillance in faith-based hospitals in Zambia.
Building an Analog Circuit Synapse for Deep Learning Neuromorphic Processing
Authors: Juarez-Lora Alejandro , Ponce-Ponce Victor H. , Sossa-Azuela Humberto , Espinosa-Sosa Osvaldo , Rubio-Espino Elsa
Published: May 2024

In this article, we propose a circuit to imitate the behavior of a Reward-Modulated Spike-Timing-Dependent Plasticity synapse. When two neurons in adjacent layers produce spikes, each spike modifies the thickness of the common synapse. As a result, the synapse’s ability to conduct impulses is controlled, leading to an unsupervised learning rule. By introducing a reward signal, reinforcement learning is enabled by redirecting the growth and shrinkage of synapses based on signal feedback from the environment. The proposed synapse manages the convolution of the emitted spike signals to promote either the strengthening or weakening of the synapse, which is represented as the resistance value of a memristor device. As memristors have a conductance range that may differ from the available current input range of typical CMOS neuron designs, the synapse circuit can be adjusted to regulate the spike’s amplitude current to comply with the neuron. The circuit described in this work allows for the implementation of fully interconnected layers of neuron analog circuits. This is achieved by having each synapse reconform the spike signal, thus removing the burden of providing enough power from the neurons to each memristor. The synapse circuit was tested using a CMOS analog neuron described in the literature. Additionally, the article provides insight into how to properly describe the hysteresis behavior of the memristor in Verilog-A code. The testing and learning capabilities of the synapse circuit are demonstrated in simulation using the Skywater-130nm process. The article’s main goal is to provide the basic building blocks for Deep Neural Neural Networks relying on spiking neurons and memristors as the basic processing elements to handle spike generation, propagation, and synaptic plasticity.
Enhancing Early Detection of Sepsis in Neonates through Multimodal Biosignal Integration: A Study of Pulse Oximetry, Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS), and Skin Temperature Monitoring
Authors: Lungu Nicoleta , Popescu Daniela-Eugenia , Jura Ana Maria Cristina , Zaharie Mihaela , Jura Mihai-Andrei , Roșca Ioana , Boia Mărioara
Published: May 2024

Sepsis still remains one of the most difficult conditions to diagnose as it presents unspecific clinical signs and symptoms, which makes early detection crucial. Our study aimed to enhance the accuracy of sepsis diagnosis by integrating multimodal monitoring technologies with traditional diagnostic methods. The research involved 121 newborns, comprising 39 cases of late-onset sepsis, 35 cases of early-onset sepsis, and 47 control subjects. Biosignals including pulse oximetry (PO), near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), and skin temperature (ST) were continuously monitored and an algorithm was developed using Python for identifying early signs of sepsis. The model demonstrated the ability to detect sepsis 6 to 48 hours in advance with an accuracy rate of 87.67% ± 7.42%. Sensitivity and specificity were recorded at 76% and 90%, respectively, with NIRS and ST having the most significant impact on predictive accuracy. Despite the promising results, limitations such as sample size, data variability, and potential biases were noted. The findings highlight the critical role of non-invasive biosensing methods in conjunction with traditional biomarkers and cultures, offering a robust framework for early sepsis detection and improved neonatal care. Further studies are recommended to validate these results across diverse clinical settings.
Electromagnetic Characterization of EAC-1A and JSC-2A Lunar Regolith Simulants
Authors: Ramos Somolinos David , Plaza Gallardo Borja , Cidrás Estévez José , Stepanyan Narek , Cowley Aidan , Auñón Marugán Alicia , Poyatos Martínez David
Published: May 2024

The development of devices for In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) of the lunar surface powder (regolith) by means of microwaves needs regolith simulants with electromagnetic properties similar to the lunar regolith. This document deals with the measurement of complex permittivity and dielectric loss tangent of the aforementioned simulants at ambient temperature from 400 MHz to 20 GHz. In addition, further studies are carried out taking into account humidity of the samples and their densities. The obtained results will be applicable for comparing the measured values of EAC-1A and JSC-2A among them and with other previously measured simulants and real samples. The measurements are carried out applying two different nonresonant techniques: Open- Ended Coaxial Probe (OECP) and Transmission Line. For this purpose, the DAK and EpsiMu commercial kits were respectively used.
Does Rural Labor Transfer Impact Chinese Agricultural Carbon Emission Efficiency? A Substitution Perspective of Agricultural Machinery
Authors: Zheng Pengkun , Maharjan Keshav Lall
Published: May 2024

In this paper, the ratio of gross agricultural production (GAP) and agricultural carbon emission is defined as agricultural carbon emission efficiency (ACEE). Considering rural labor transfer (RLT) increases the agricultural machinery intensity (AMI), the two are substitutes for each other and may interact with agricultural carbon emission efficiency (ACEE), we constructed a Simultaneous Equations Model (SEM) of ACEE, RLT and AMI, and analyzed the interaction mechanism of these three variables by using the Three-Stage Least Squares (3SLS) method to solve the endogeneity of the model. The following conclusions are drawn. First, RLT and AMI significantly promote the improvement of ACEE, while the improvement of ACEE and AMI further promotes RLT. Secondly, the causal relationship and influence mechanism of ACEE, RLT and AMI are interactive and multi-directional. An increase in AMI promotes ACEE, but an increase in ACEE inhibits an increase in AMI, suggesting that the marginal rate of substitution of machinery for labor is decreasing. Finally, China has significant regional heterogeneity. Labor transfer and machinery are only direct factors in increasing ACEE, while factors such as economic base, technology level and farmers' attitudes provide environmental support for the effective improvement of ACEE.
Xylella fastidiosa Dispersion on Vegetal Hosts on Demarcated Zones in the North Region of Portugal
Authors: Loureiro Talita , Serra Luis , Martins Ângela , Cortez Isabel , Poeta Patrícia
Published: May 2024

Predictive studies are essential to establish fundamental data for monitoring and controlling Xylella fastidiosa infections in our country. Limited knowledge exists about how Xylella fastidiosa interacts with the plant host's immune system, leaving numerous unanswered questions regarding Xylella fastidiosa biology and its interactions with national plant hosts. Key inquiries include understanding of how the plant immune system interfaces with Xylella fastidiosa in the xylem and identifying the specific or shared mechanisms underlying the susceptibility of different hosts. Factors such as the presence of insect vectors, abundance of host plants, and climate suitability play pivotal roles in Xylella fastidiosa dispersal. We recommend that countries identified with relatively high risk, like Portugal, undertake thorough individual risk analyses. The implementation of preventive measures and, if necessary, the enhancement of surveillance systems for early detection of Xylella fastidiosa in plants and insect vectors are crucial steps. Additionally, raising awareness is of equal importance to mitigate socioeconomic and ecological impacts on their ecosystems.
Human Milk Protein-Derived Bioactive Peptides from In Vitro-Digested Colostrum Exert Antimicrobial Activities against Common Neonatal Pathogens
Authors: Lyu Yang , Kim Bum Jin , Patel Jagdish Suresh , Dallas David C. , Chen Yimin
Published: May 2024

Human milk reduces risk for necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm infants. Necrotizing enterocolitis occurs in the ileocecal region where thousands of milk protein-derived peptides have been released from digestion. Digestion-released peptides may exert bioactivity, such antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activities, in the gut. In this study, we applied mass spectrometry-based peptidomics to characterize peptides present in colostrum before and after in vitro digestion. Sequence-based computational modeling was applied to predict peptides with antimicrobial activity. We identified more peptides in undigested samples, yet the abundances were much higher in the digested samples. Heatmapping demonstrated highly different peptide profiles between undigested and digested samples. Four peptides (αS1-casein [157–163], αS1-casein [157–165], β-casein [153–159] and plasminogen [591–597]) were selected, synthesized and tested against common pathogenic bacteria associated with necrotizing enterocolitis. All four exhibited bacteriostatic, though not bactericidal, activities against Klebsiella aerogenes, Citrobacter freundii and Serratia marcescens, but not Escherichia coli.
Factors Associated with Anxiety Symptoms Among Filipino Farmers in Central Luzon: An Analytical Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Young Har-li T. , Yalong Dina , Guingguing Vinace S. , Manengyao William, Jr. M. , Tolosa Maria Teresa S. , Vega Ma. Beatrice M. , Ventilacion Van Irish S. , Villamayor Merimae S. , Villangca Peter G. , Zaño Alina C.
Published: May 2024

This article aims to determine the different factors that are associated with anxiety symptoms among Filipino farmers in Central Luzon. Eligible participants were screened for anxiety symptoms using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), while the Data Collection Tool for Factors Associated with Anxiety Symptoms (DCFAAS) was constructed and validated to determine the exposure of these factors. Among the 113 eligible farmers, only 19 (16.8%) experienced anxiety symptoms, with excessive worrying (39.8%) being the most frequent anxiety symptom. The mental health of Filipino farmers was significantly affected by the presence of physical illness (OR = 10.70 [1.367, 83.773]) and having relatives affecting work completion (OR = 6.45 [1.346, 30.896]). Therefore, policies must be focused on tackling these issues to address the mental health issues faced by farmers. The low prevalence of anxiety symptoms may stem from existing perceptions and barriers encountered in confiding psychological issues, and the Filipino’s religiosity and resiliency. Keywords: Farmers, Agriculture, Central Luzon, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, GAD-7
Rapid and Simple Morphological Assay for Determination of Susceptibility/Resistance to Combined Ciprofloxacin and Ampicillin, Independently, in Escherichia coli
Authors: López Isidoro , Otero Fátima , Fernández María del Carmen , Bou Germán , Gosálvez Jaime , Fernández García José Luis
Published: May 2024

Current antibiograms cannot discern the particular effect of a specific antibiotic when the bacteria are incubated with a mixture of antibiotics. To prove that this task is achievable, Escherichia coli strains were treated with ciprofloxacin for 45 min, immobilized on a slide and stained with SYBR Gold. In susceptible strains, the nucleoid relative surface started to decrease near the MIC, being progressively condensed as dose increased. The shrinkage level correlated with the DNA fragmentation degree. Ciprofloxacin-resistant bacilli showed no change. Additionally, E. coli strains were incubated with ampicillin for 45 min and processed similarly. The ampicillin-susceptible strain revealed intercellular DNA fragments that increased with dose, unlike the resistant strain. Co-incubation with both antibiotics revealed that ampicillin did not modify the nucleoid condensation effect of ciprofloxacin, whereas the quinolone partially decreased the background of DNA fragments induced by ampicillin. Sixty clinical isolates, with different combinations of susceptibility-resistance to each antibiotic, were co-incubated with the EUCAST breakpoints of susceptibility of ciprofloxacin and ampicillin. The morphological assay correctly categorized all the strains for each antibiotic in 60 min, demonstrating the feasible independent evaluation of a mixture of quinolone and beta-lactam. The rapid phenotypic assay may shorten the incubation times and necessary microbial mass currently required for evaluation.