bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the Need for Developing E-Modules Based on Problem-Based Learning on Heat Transfer Material for Middle School Students
Authors: Chairatunnisa Anida , Marlina Leni , Wiyono Ketang
Published: March 2024

To help students understand the learning process, e-module development for science instruction was crucial. The objectives of this study were to identify the learning resources that students use to comprehend the material in physics, identify the learning resources that need to be developed in physics learning, and describe the examination of needs for developing an e-module based on Problem-Based Learning (PBL) on heat transfer material at the junior high school level. This study (mixed method research) used both quantitative and qualitative methods. The research and development (R&D) technique employing a 4D model (define, design, development, and disseminate) was utilized in this study. However, it should be noted that only the define stage was addressed within the scope of this research. The primary objective was to collect data, for which 38 seventh-grade students from SMP Negeri 6 Palembang participated by responding to an online questionnaire. Analysis was conducted using a descriptive qualitative method. The findings from the questionnaire collection were utilized to develop two e-modules intended to aid in understanding physics learning materials, particularly those related to heat transfer. The implications suggested that resources such as e-modules were necessary for students to comprehend and learn physics concepts, especially those related to heat transfer. Additionally, various learning materials like textbooks, e-books, worksheets, and online media were identified as essential for effective physics education. The significance of creating e-modules rooted in problem-based learning to aid students in grasping physics content, particularly concerning heat transfer, was highlighted. Furthermore, the research underscored the necessity for developing various learning resources such as textbooks, e-books, worksheets, and online media for physics education. These findings could enhance curriculum development and teaching methodologies by providing insights into students' characteristics and requirements when studying heat transfer material.
The Effect of the Project-Based Learning (PjBL) Model based on an Integrated STEM Approach with Entrepreneurial Character on Students' Creative Thinking Ability
Authors: Ananda Winda , Johari Asni , Nazarudin Nazarudin
Published: March 2024

This research aims to measure students' creative thinking abilities using the Project-Based Learning (PjBL) model based on an integrated STEM approach with entrepreneurial character in dynamic electrical material. This type of research is quasi-experimental with a none-equivalent pre-test and post-test control group design research model. The population in this study was all students in class XII phase F, with a total of 8 classes. The sampling was taken using cluster random sampling. Class F4 is an experimental class with 35 people, and class F3 is a control class with 35 people. The experimental class implemented STEM-based PjBL integrated entrepreneurial character and the control class with conventional learning. The instrument used was a 4 question description test to measure creative thinking. Based on the t-test, it was found that the initial abilities in both classes were the same in terms of creative thinking skills. The average post-test score for the experimental class and control class. Based on the t-test, there is a significant difference, which means there is an influence of STEM-based PjBL integrated with entrepreneurial character on creative thinking skills.
Analysis of Consistency in Students' Understanding of Multi-Representations in the Context of Determining One-Dimensional Kinematics Distance
Authors: Adha Ahmad Ridlotul , Taqwa Muhammad Reyza Arief
Published: March 2024

A structured and comprehensive understanding of physics concepts is crucial to physics learning. Such proficiency is characterized by the consistency in students' thought processes across multiple representations. This research aims to ascertain the consistency in the thought processes of first-year students when determining distance in multiple representations. This study employed a descriptive research design with a quantitative-qualitative approach, involving 77 students as research subjects. The participants are divided into classes: Class H with 41 students and Class I with 36 students. Data analysis techniques included quantitative descriptive analysis and Huberman and Miles' analysis. The research instrument consisted of 28 reasoned multiple-choice items that have undergone validation. The findings indicate that only 8 (10.39%) students possess a precise and consistent understanding of the definition of distance, applying it across various representations. A small proportion (12.99%) experiences misconceptions. These research findings corroborate previous studies, emphasizing that, in general, first-year students are novices in physics.
Development of A Physics-Based E-Module Iman Taqwa-Loading CTL on Dynamic Fluid Materials
Authors: Adha Siti Nurhafizah , Hikmah Fitri Nur , Sofianto Eko Wahyu Nur
Published: March 2024

The CTL model is a model that can help teachers motivate students to make connections between the content of the material and real-life situations, and this model requires teachers to create alternative teaching materials as a guide. The development of good teaching materials that combine religious values with science. Therefore, researchers are interested in developing this e-module. This research aims to determine the validity of the product being developed, namely a physics e-module based on CTL containing implications for dynamic fluid material, and to find out how students respond to the product the researcher developed. This research is development research, and the development model used is the ADDIE development model, which consists of five stages. However, this research only reached the development stage because research aimed to develop and produce valid teaching materials based on validator assessments, and at each stage of this model, there is evaluation and revision.  First, the researchers analyzed the curriculum, needs, and materials. Then, they design it, the initial design stage for developing a product. Next, the development is the stage where the previously prepared design realizes the product design. Validators consist of two physics lecturers and one physics teacher. The development trial subjects were 34 class XII, IPA 1, MAN 1, and HST students. The product validation results from material experts were 81%, and from media experts were 82%, where both of these figures are included in the very valid criteria. The results of the student response test on the product being developed were 85%, which met very good criteria. Based on these results, the physics e-module based on CTL contains imprints on dynamic fluid material is declared valid and very good. Implications development is helping teach physics in religion and dynamic fluid materials. Implications of research for helping increase learning module fluid dynamics include religion (Islamic).
Implementation of Conceptual Change Model - Computational Thinking (CCM-CT) to Increase Students’ Conceptual Understanding in Pascal’s Law
Authors: Anfusiyah Dwi , Samsudin Achmad , Danawan Agus
Published: March 2024

This research aimed to implement the Conceptual Change Model - Computational Thinking (CCM-CT) in enhancing students’ conceptual understanding of Pascal’s Law. This research used a quasi-experimental design with a pretest-posttest control-group design. The population for this research comprised all second-semester grade XI MIPA students in a public high school in Bandung City. The sampling method used was purposive sampling, specifically selecting students who had not previously studied Pascal's Law material. The sample included two classes: the experimental class, which received treatment through CCM-CT learning, and the control class, which underwent treatment using CCM learning. The experimental class consisted of 8 male students and 28 female students, while the control class consisted of 9 male students and 27 female students aged 15-17 years. The data collection technique for students’ conceptual understanding used a Four-tier test instrument on Pascal’s Law. The data analysis technique used the N-Gain test to assess the enhancement of students' conceptual understanding through activities to alter their conceptions during the learning process. The results revealed a distinction in conceptual understanding between students who utilized CCM-CT learning and those who employed CCM learning. The N-Gain pre-test and post-test values in the experimental class, which implemented CCM-CT learning, were 0.71, interpreted as "high," while in the control class applying CCM learning, the values were 0.62, interpreted as "enough." As a result, implementing CCM-CT proved to be an alternative teachers could utilize to enhance students' conceptual understanding. This was supported by the research findings, which demonstrated a higher level of concept understanding among students who underwent CCM-CT learning compared to those who underwent CCM learning.
The Effect of Using Animation Media on Students' Physics Learning Outcomes in Linear Motion Material
Authors: Nurnaifah Ihfa Indira , Akhfar Mariani , Said Sukmawati
Published: March 2024

This quasi-experimental research was conducted with the aim of 1) comparing the learning outcomes of students taught conventionally and those taught using animation media and 2) calculating the value of the influence of using animation media on student learning outcomes. The experimental research design used in this research is in the form of a nonequivalent control group design with a test as the research instrument, carried out at the research's beginning (pretest) and end (posttest). The sample classes in this study are two classes that were taken using the cluster random sampling method. The results obtained are: 1) The average physics learning outcomes of students in the experimental class are higher than the average learning outcomes in the control class, and 2) There is a significant difference in learning outcome scores between classes that have been taught using animation media compared to conventional classes so that animation media has an influence on students' physics learning outcomes in Pinrang. The research becomes a reference for physics teachers in Pinrang who use animation media in the learning process.
STEM-Based Science E-Module: Is It Effective to Improve Students' Creative Thinking Skills?
Authors: Pratiwi Wulan Octi , Pramudiyanti Pramudiyanti , Perdana Ryzal
Published: March 2024

Elementary school students need to be able to think creatively, especially when facing various obstacles in their future careers. Therefore, it is necessary to develop STEM-based e-modules that can improve the creative thinking skills of elementary school students. This study aimed to describe how well STEM-based e-modules improved students' creative thinking skills about electrical energy. The subjects of this study were 30 students in sixth grade in MIN 2 Pringsewu, using the learning achievement test as a research instrument. Descriptive qualitative was used as the data analysis. The N-gain test was also used to evaluate the data. Based on the study's results, the electronic module was declared effective with an N-gain score of 0.7, which was determined from data analysis. Thus, it is assumed that e-modules based on the STEM approach were claimed to be able to develop students' creative thinking abilities further.
Analysis of Media and Learning Resources Used by Teachers in the Topic of Direct Current Circuits in Physics
Authors: Putra Nurhamdin , Zulkarnain Iskandar , Wandika Wandika , Desnita Desnita , Usmeldi Usmeldi
Published: March 2024

This study aims to analyze the media and learning resources used in 6 public and private high schools to explain the 12th-grade Physics material of Direct Current (DC) circuits and to analyze the media and learning resources with the potential for development in teaching Physics, particularly in the topic of DC circuits, in these six schools. The research employed a quantitative descriptive method with a survey approach, and the instrument used was a questionnaire. The data were obtained from the distribution of questionnaires, with 282 respondents from 6 different schools. The collected data were analyzed by calculating the percentage of media and learning resources used by the six schools. The results showed that the learning media with the highest percentage is "other media," including print media (textbooks), whiteboards, and direct explanations by teachers, with 40.46%. Meanwhile, the lowest percentage is for PhET at 10.54%. Regarding learning resources, printed books have the highest percentage at 44.98% and the lowest for modules at 9.17%. In conclusion, the most widely used media by the six schools to explain DC circuits are print media (textbooks), whiteboards, and direct explanations by teachers. The most commonly used learning resource is printed books. Additionally, the media with the potential for development is PhET, and the learning resource with development potential is modules. This is because these media and learning resources are still underutilized in the six public and private high schools when explaining DC circuits. This research provides insights into the needed media and learning resources, their limited availability, and their potential for development in teaching DC circuits in these six public and private high schools.
The Development of Adaptive E-Scaffolding to Support the Academic Diversity of High School Students on Mechanical Waves Material
Authors: Fawaiz Sahal , Koes-H Supriyono , Wisodo Hari
Published: March 2024

Waves are an abstract concept frequently challenging for students to grasp, as it is believed that only talented students can master it. Moreover, upon entering the classroom, each student possesses a unique understanding. Differentiated learning is suggested as a solution to manage the diversity of students in the classroom. This study aims to develop adaptive e-scaffolding for the Moodle LMS. This study design was the research and development using Analyze, Design, Develop, Implement, and Evaluate (ADDIE) model. Variable levels of scaffolding are incorporated into adaptive e-scaffolding by student abilities. The validation conducted by three experts in physics education and educational technology yielded a score of 3.78 and deemed adaptive e-scaffolding valid. The implementation outcomes show that the adaptive e-scaffolding achieves an average readability percentage of 79.2%, and the highest score was obtained in the feedback category. In summary, implementing adaptive learning technologies, such as e-scaffolding, can enhance students' engagement with learning materials and assist teachers in addressing classroom diversity. Teachers, e-learning developers, and other professionals in the field of education must give due consideration to how technology enables adaptive learning strategies.
Composting of Rice Straw–Based Materials using Aerobic Bioactivator Isolated from Rice Straw, Mahogany Bark and Cassava Peels
Authors: Cahyani Vita Ratri , Rahayu Rahayu , Lakshitarsari Kynthavi Paramitha , Megow Rahma Amira Zhalzhabila Wakak , Azzahra Nadine Yuki
Published: March 2024

Compost is one of organic fertilizers that play an important role in maintaining soil health and supporting sustainable agriculture. Diverse aspects could be developed to increase the quality of compost. This study aims to compare the quality of compost produced by using two different bioactivators, namely aerobic bioactivator RMC (the microbial consortia isolated from composted rice straw, mahogany bark and cassava peels + additional supplement) and fermentative bioactivator (EM4 + molasses) in the composting of the mainly rice straw-based materials. Composting was conducted using a single factor completely randomized design consisting of five levels as follows: C0 (control, rice straw); C1 (rice straw + bioactivator EM4 + molasses); C2 (rice straw + bioactivator RMC + additional supplement); C3 (rice straw + cow dung + bioactivator RMC + additional supplement); C4 (leaf litter + cow dung + bioactivator RMC + additional supplement, as comparison treatment with no rice straw). Among the treatments of C0, C1 and C2, composting the same rice straw material but different bioactivators, C2 showed the highest compost quality and decomposition rate. Among the other three treatments of C2, C3 and C4 composting different materials but using the same bioactivator, C3 showed the highest compost quality, but the three treatments showed the same high decomposition rate. Based on the characteristics of the compost product, including nutrient content, the treatment C3 produced the highest quality, followed by C4 and then C2. Both bioactivators EM4 + molasses and RMC+ additional supplement tended to increase total bacteria, fungi, nitrogen-fixing bacteria and phosphate-solubilizing microbiota in the compost products compared to the control without bioactivator. A set of aerobic bioactivator RMC plus additional supplement serve as one strategy to accelerate the composting process and to enhance the compost quality.
Farmers’ Income and the Driving Forces for the Switch from Shifting Cultivation to Settled Agriculture in Meghalaya, India
Authors: Nonglait Mebaaibok L , Khundrakpam Nicholas , Deka Pratibha
Published: March 2024

This study assesses the dependence of farmers on semi-settled (a combination of shifting and settled cultivation) and settled agriculture as a source of family income. The farmers residing in the hilly tracts of West Garo Hills mostly adopt semi-settled cultivation. Farmers are also transitioning from semi-settled to settled agriculture. This study was conducted to investigate the factors influencing the transition and the socioeconomic conditions of farmers practicing semi-settled and settled agriculture. The researchers surveyed 119 randomly selected households in West Garo Hills, a district of Meghalaya, India, using a structured questionnaire. Exploration of influencing factors for transitioning is important to provide insights into how factors interact, thereby facilitating the development of effective adaptation strategies and policies that will ensure farmers’ future well-being. Results showed that settled farmers generate more income and possess more land area than semi-settled farmers. Besides available land area, a stable source of income for a family is a strong determinant for abandoning shifting cultivation and transitioning to settled agriculture to boost income with less time investment and labor. The farmers found that shifting cultivation helped meet their dietary needs and some income during the COVID-19 lockdown. Alongside efforts to boost commercial agriculture, the government should also assist farmers with limited resources in transitioning to settled agriculture by building market networks for the goods produced from shifting cultivation.
Utilization of Nostoc piscinale as Potential Biofertilizer to the Growth and Development of Oryza sativa L.
Authors: Go Oco Rebecca , Devanadera Mark Kevin , De Grano Ruel Valerio Robles
Published: March 2024

Nostoc is a blue-green cyanobacteria that produce their food through photosynthesis and nitrogen fixation. These organisms undergo nitrogen fixation and provide a potential nitrogen source for growth and development. Since rice is known as one of the world’s staple foods, especially in Asia, this study aims to determine the utilization of Nostoc piscinale as a potential biofertilizer for planting rice crops. N. piscinale was inoculated into three subcultures and incubated for 87 to 170 days, and then analyzed for nitrogen-fixing activity and rice plant development. Growth of cyanobacteria showed a significant increase in chlorophyll a starting from day 30 up to day 170 while nitrogen-fixing activity remained constant from day 4. On the other hand, the growth and development of rice treated with cyanobacteria showed correlated trends with commercial fertilizer (CSF) in terms of root and shoot (growth and fresh weight) and chlorophyll a content with no statistical differences (p-value ≥ 0.05). Nitrogen tests indicate the utilization of ammonia produced by N. piscinale and the change in soil pH. After harvesting the samples at 20 days and measuring the soil pH, the cyanobacterial samples were seen to lower the soil pH before planting, which is significantly different from the untreated and CSF-treated samples. The utilization of nitrogen for the growth and development of Oryza sativa subsp. indica proved that N. piscinale would be a positive alternative source of nitrogen due to the results obtained from the soil nitrogen composition and soil pH.
Pectinase Production by Rhizopus stolonifer A3 Isolated from Apple Peels
Authors: Sari Siti Lusi Arum , Tanjung Wida Puspa , Amilia Klara Rizky , Setyaningsih Ratna , Pangastuti Artini
Published: March 2024

The application of pectinase in industries will continue to be developed. To broaden the applicability of enzyme manufacturing in new industries, more research to investigate pectinolytic microorganisms with high activity and stability is still required. Therefore, this study aimed to obtain pectinolytic fungi that have the potential as pectinase producers. Pectinolytic fungi were isolated from rotten apple peels and selected based on clear zone formation on pectic agar media after cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) staining. Pectinolytic fungi were identified based on 18S rRNA partial gene sequences and morphological characteristics. Pectinase production used Mandels and Weber medium with citrus pectin 20 g l-1 addition. Pectinase activity was determined based on the measurement of reducing sugars by a colorimetric method. A total of 5 fungal isolates were successfully isolated. All of the isolates had pectinolytic activities with clear zone diameters ranging between 0.99 to 7.32 mm. The isolate A3 showing the highest pectinolytic activity was identified as Rhizopus stolonifer. Microscopically, R. stolonifer A3 showed typical characteristics for Rhizopus, characterized by the presence of rhizoids, stolons and sporangiophores bearing a single spherical sporangium. The pectinase production of R. stolonifer A3 was optimum at initial pH 5.0, temperature 35 °C and incubation period of 3 days with pectinase activity of 14.75 U ml-1. R. stolonifer A3 produced acidic pectinase having optimum activity at pH 5.0 and temperature 50 °C. Thus R. stolonifer A3 has the potential to be used as a producer of acidic pectinase appropriate for use in the processing of fruit products.
Utilization of Chia Seeds Powder in Wet Noodle Substituted with Modified Cassava Flour
Authors: Matita Intan Cidarbulan , Soedirga Lucia Crysanthy , Andriani Irene
Published: March 2024

The Indonesian food industry needs to utilize local food commodities as an alternative to wheat, supporting local farmers as part of sustainable agriculture. Modified cassava flour (MOCAF) has similar characteristics to wheat flour yet it lacks gluten and has low protein content. Chia seeds have the potential to improve the textural characteristics of gluten-free products due to their gel-forming ability and are a good source of plant-based protein. This study aims to utilize chia seed powder in the formulation of wet noodles substituted with MOCAF to possibly obtain wet noodles with equal textural characteristics and protein content to 100% wheat flour noodles. In this study, different ratios of wheat flour to MOCAF (100:0, 90:10, 80:20, 70:30, 60:40) and different amounts of chia seed powder (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%) are studied in terms of cooking quality (cooking loss and water absorption), textural properties (hardness, cohesiveness, and chewiness), color (brightness and hue angle). Higher MOCAF substitution resulted in higher water absorption and cooking loss, as well as undesirable (harder) textural properties. Incorporation of chia seeds powder successfully lowers the cooking loss and higher water absorption of the MOCAF-substituted noodles and noodles with 100% wheat flour without chia seeds powder. Chia seed powder can reduce the hardness while maintaining and increasing the chewiness of the MOCAF-substituted noodles. In the MOCAF-substituted noodles, comparable protein content to that of 100% wheat flour noodles can be achieved with the use of 10 to 15% chia seeds powder at a maximum 80:20 substitution ratio.
Role of Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora (Thai Basil) Aqueous Extract Treated with Yeast Suspension in Enhancing Tomato Plant Resistance to Fusarium oxysporum
Authors: Neamah Wurood Hantoosh , Abdel sayed Shatha Fadel , Hasan Fatimah Ali
Published: March 2024

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is the most popular vegetable crop in the world. It is grown almost all over the world. The biggest challenge in producing this crop is diseases caused by Fusarium oxysporum. In developing eco-friendly antifungal selective substances for controlling Fusarium diseases, the role of Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora (Thai basil) aqueous extract against stimulated F. oxysporum was studied in vivo. The presoaked tomato seeds with yeast-treated and untreated O. basilicum var. thyrsiflora extracts were cultivated in F. oxysporum-infused soil. This part investigated the recovery role of these botanical extracts against the Fusarium infection on tomato plants, especially on its growth and biochemical traits. The research showed that the vegetative and floral growth parameters of plant decreased significantly due to F. oxysporum infection. The pigment contents, including carotenoids, β-carotene and lycopene in tomato fruits, were also passively affected by fungus infection at variance to phenolic and flavonoid content. Moreover, the O. basilicum var. thyrsiflora extract presoaked seeds remarkably enhanced the growth parameters of plant and the fruit pigment content. There was no significant difference in fungus infection recovery between infected plants that got yeast-treated extract and infected plants that got yeast-untreated extract. However, the pathogen inhibition percentage with extract from yeast-treated Thai basil plants in vitro increased. This research showed that utilizing O. basilicum var. thyrsiflora extract to control F. oxysporum infection of tomato plants was possible and available.
Traditional Ecological Knowledge and Farm Household Resilience to Natural Hazards
Authors: Utami Arini Wahyu , Widjanarko Nadila Puspa Arum , Indradewa Didik , Dhamira Aura , Arum Mutiarra Ridyo , Rizqi Fathi Alfinur , Komarudin Nurul Amri , Prabaningtyas Din
Published: March 2024

This study portrays the roles of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) in the mitigation of natural hazards. Menoreh Hill in Kulon Progo experienced more than 200 landslides in 2022 and its communities implemented TEK to mitigate them. Hence, this research quantitatively analyzes the role of agriculture-related TEK, especially those applied in hilly areas, to support household resilience to natural hazards. Authors surveyed 106 farm households and interviewed eight key informants in Banjararum and Sidoharjo Villages, Kalibawang and Samigaluh Sub-districts, Kulon Progo Regency, D.I. Yogyakarta. The data were then analyzed using descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression. The descriptive statistics showed that farmers in both villages are highest in practicing alley cropping and integrated farming, while also applying mixed cropping, multiple cropping and locally based planting schedule (pranata mangsa). From binary logistic regression, authors found that TEK practices of multiple cropping, alley cropping and pranata mangsa support farm household resilience to natural hazards, especially landslides. The TEK practices serve as sources of buffer and adaptation capacity in the development of farm household resilience. Interestingly, mixed cropping and membership in farmer groups tend to weaken resilience, as mixed cropping often complicates the recovery efforts in the farmlands, and farmers’ groups are not conditioned to act promptly during hazards or disasters. While TEK has been proven to take roles in the mitigation and adaptation to natural hazards, there is a need to integrate scientific knowledge to improve its optimum benefits.
Identification and Reduction of Bitter Taste Determinant Compounds in Chocolate Spread Formulated with Candlenut
Authors: Astuti Zenita Mulya , Fibri Dwi Larasatie Nur , Ayouaz Siham , Muhammad Dimas Rahadian Aji
Published: March 2024

Candlenuts can be used as a substitute in producing chocolate spread due to their high-fat content. However, the limitation of using candlenut in the spread formulation is the existence of a bitter taste. This study aimed to investigate the effect of sodium bisulfite and sodium bicarbonate soaking treatment (100, 300, and 500 ppm) on reducing the bitter taste of candlenut seed. In order to reach the goal, bitter compounds of candlenut and chocolate spread were identified using Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The sensory characteristics of chocolate spread were profiled using the Rate All That Apply (RATA) descriptive method. It was shown that the panelists identified 14 sensory attributes in the samples, one of which was bitter taste. Treatment with sodium bisulfite, as well as sodium bicarbonate at the level of 300 ppm, reduced the intensity of the bitter taste. The treatment reduced flavonoid and tannin levels by 85.21% and 82.08% in candlenut seeds. It also reduced flavonoid and tannin levels by 88.47% and 72.71% in chocolate spread, respectively. LC-MS identified 13 compounds that cause the bitter taste, namely quercetin, oleuropein, kaemferol, resveratrol dimer, luteolin, epicatechin, theobromine, caffeine, iso-humolones, colaflavone, chlorogenic acid, feruloyl-caffeoylquinic acid, and coumaroylquinic acid. This study creates a new technique for producing chocolate spread formulated with candlenuts with lower bitterness levels.
Effect of Different Types of Biochar Applications and Phosphate Fertilizer on the Quality and Yield of Edamame Soybeans on Andisols
Authors: Karimah Ramdhana , Purwanto Benito Heru , Hanudin Eko , Utami Sri Nuryani Hidayah , Maimunah Margi Asih
Published: March 2024

Edamame soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) cultivation in phosphorus-limited Andisols presents a formidable challenge due to restricted phosphorus availability despite high phosphorus retention. Unlocking the full potential of this crop demands innovative solutions. This study delves into the transformative effects of biochar and phosphorus fertilizer, individually and synergistically, on edamame soybean growth in Andisols. Employing a randomized complete block design, researchers investigate three types of biochar (B0: control, B1: biochar pellets, B2: biochar powder) and four phosphorus fertilizer rates (P0: control, P1: 27 kg ha-1 P2O5, P2: 54 kg ha-1 P2O5, P3: 81 kg ha-1 P2O5). The bamboo-derived biochar was produced using the Kon-tiki method at ±500 °C. The study reveals no significant interaction between biochar and phosphorus fertilizer. Individually, treatments with B1, B2, and phosphorus fertilizers significantly enhance ammonium, nitrate, and phosphorus availability compared to B0 and P0. Biochar-induced modifications improve phosphorus and nitrogen absorption by roots, resulting in increased shoot dry weight and the root/shoot ratio. However, the number of leaves is solely influenced by phosphorus fertilizer treatment. Additionally, both biochar and phosphorus fertilizers contribute to nitrate reductase activity, root volume, an increased number of pods per plant and higher protein content in edamame soybeans. B2 outperforms B1 and high P3 intensifies this effect, improving nutrient uptake and yield. In summary, biochar and phosphorus fertilizers demonstrate significant potential to revolutionize edamame soybean cultivation in phosphorus-limited Andisols, optimizing pod number per plant and enhancing quality with elevated protein content.
Diversity of Knowledge-Sharing Behavior to Encourage the Practice of Robusta Coffee Red-Picking (Case Study of Temanggung Robusta Coffee Farmer, Indonesia)
Authors: Ihsaniyati Hanifah , Sarwoprasodjo Sarwititi , Muljono Pudji , Gandasari Dyah
Published: March 2024

Red-picking is the key to good coffee quality and is essential for increasing farmers’ income, added value, competitiveness, and development. Knowledge-sharing is one solution to improve the knowledge confidence of farmers and the reach of dissemination of red-picking practices. This research aims to determine the diversity of knowledge-sharing behavior related to red-picking practices according to farmers’ socio-economic status. This research was conducted in a constructivist paradigm with a qualitative approach and case study strategy. According to specific characteristics, seven primary informants were determined by staged, purposive, and peer group discussions. Temanggung coffee stakeholders take part as supporting informants. Interviews, focus group discussions, social media and document observations, expert discussions, peer group discussions, literature reviews, and documentation were used to collect research data. The data were analyzed qualitatively using the NVivo 12 Plus. Research has found that diversity of knowledge-sharing tends to encourage red-picking practices. The research findings also stated that group farmers with an area of land ≤ 1 ha, younger generation group farmers, group farmers with roles as gathering traders, and group farmers who use social media have more diverse knowledge-sharing behaviors. The practice of red-picking can be encouraged by supporting farmers in carrying out knowledge-sharing activities with other farmers with different characteristics. This study implies that the resulting findings will enrich the concept of knowledge-sharing by describing how people utilize social and offline media in sharing knowledge to encourage red-picking practices.
Analysis of the Emerging Market for Poultry By-Products in Ghana
Authors: Gbordzoe Etriakor Kofi , Onumah Edward Ebo , Mensah-Bonsu Akwasi
Published: March 2024

The paper examined the emerging poultry by-products market, delving into the nature, revenue generation, influencing factors, and constraints of the market, using data from poultry farmers, aggregators, and cattle farmers. The paper described the nature of the market using descriptive statistics and a flow chart, estimated its contribution to poultry revenue, and examined the factors influencing the proportion of revenue contributed using a Tobit model. Kendall’s coefficient of concordance was used to measure the level of agreement among the poultry farmers in ranking identified constraints. The poultry by-product market is currently characterized by only poultry droppings trading, with Côte d’Ivoire as the largest user (76% of the consumption) in cross-border informal trade and an average selling price of 8.39 USD per metric ton. The emerging market for the by-products can be described as seasonal. Annual revenue per poultry farmer for poultry droppings is 1,072.26 USD. Management type, production scale, and membership of poultry farmers’ association influenced the proportion of revenue contributed from poultry droppings. The emerging poultry droppings market provided an opportunity for small-scale farms to earn additional income and organic manure to support sustainable farming. The key constraints among the poultry farmers participating in the by-products market were low prices and a lack of processing and storage facilities. The study recommended that agriculture sector development agencies should support the development of value chains for poultry droppings and other poultry by-products to help expand the market for sustainable agriculture production under the circular economy framework.
Status and Development of Agricultural Public-Private Partnership Program Implementation in China
Authors: Hu Qiliang , Entebang Harry , Puah Chin-Hong
Published: March 2024

As the initiator of the Belt and Road Initiative, the Chinese Government’s goal in agriculture is to promote the sustainable development of agriculture throughout China and the world. One of the feasible ways to realize this goal is to adopt the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. This study aims to analyze the current status of agricultural PPP projects in China and their impacts. This study utilized the Ministry of Finance database to collect 2014 to 2022 data on agricultural PPP projects in China. The collected data were organized and analyzed to analyze the current situation and return mechanism of Chinese agricultural PPP projects. The results show that China’s agricultural PPP projects are less attractive than other sectors, government and social-private sector cooperation is less sustainable, and laws and regulations and risk assessment are not well developed. Therefore, this study proposes to promote the development of agricultural PPP projects by standardizing the law, improving the return mechanism, and strengthening the risk assessment. Thus, it further promotes the sustainable development of agriculture and plays a certain positive role.
Special Issue on Crowd Management and its Applications
Authors: Nishinari Katsuhiro , Tanaka Ken-ichi
Published: March 2024

This special issue summarizes the research findings of the “Crowd Control Adaptive to Individual and Group Attributes” project, which is selected as a full-scale research project under the “Development of the Crisis Navigator for Individuals” prioritized theme of the JST Mirai Program.*

Despite the lingering memory of the 2022 crowd accident in Itaewon, South Korea, similar accidents have occurred worldwide, including the firework display in Akashi, Japan, and the Love Parade in Germany. Addressing this social issue is imperative. To significantly reduce the risk of crowd accidents, this project aimed to elucidate the mechanism underlying human flow stagnation and establish a method to effectively guide the flow of people. Our approach involves creating a mathematical model that can estimate the flow of people by considering individual and group attributes, such as wheelchair and group behavior, to accurately predict flow stagnation. Based on these predictions, we developed a system that provides individuals with information on movement and utilizes technology to guide crowd flow, drawing principles from game theory and nudge theory. This system is characterized by integrating information on human flow, environmental factors, simulation results for predicting future conditions, and crowd control measures within the Crowd Management Platform as a Service (CMPaaS). Furthermore, we conducted demonstration tests at shopping malls, train stations, and event venues, and found that it offers valuable guidance to achieve risk reduction effects at real-world sites.

In this special issue, the first paper presents an overview of the newly created crowd management platform. Thereafter, it is organized into 16 articles presenting current research results categorized under Simulation, Theory, Control, Experiment, and Data Analysis, followed by a note on visitor trajectories in indoor facilities.

We anticipate that the outcomes of this study will facilitate interdisciplinary research in this field and promote the social implementation of crowd management platforms to prevent crowd accidents, thus creating a society where everyone can move safely, securely, comfortably, and efficiently.

* Mirai means “Future” in Japanese. The program is administered by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) and funded by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT).
Development of a Real-Time Crowd Flow Prediction and Visualization Platform for Crowd Management
Authors: Yasufuku Kensuke , Takahashi Akira
Published: March 2024

Crowd management at large-scale events and specific facilities is a critical issue from the perspectives of safety and service quality improvement. Traditional methods for crowd management often rely on empirical knowledge, which has limitations in quickly grasping the on-site situation and making decisions on the spot. In this study, we developed a real-time crowd flow prediction and visualization platform incorporating an agent-based crowd simulation and an advanced crowd management system called crowd management platform as a service. In a case study focused on the area around the Tokyo Dome, we demonstrated that capturing pedestrian flow allows for accurate predictions of congestion at the nearest train station up to 10 min in advance. Moreover, the time required to predict the situation 20 min ahead for 3,000 agents was 1 min and 35 s, confirming the feasibility of real-time processing. To enhance the accuracy and reliability of the simulation results, a sensitivity analysis considering errors in pedestrian flow measurement revealed that simple linear models cannot capture the complexity of crowd dynamics adequately. Notably, the agent-based simulation replicated stop-and-go wave patterns observed in actual measurements under specific crowd conditions, confirming the advantage of using agent-based simulations. Finally, we proposed a method that enables facility managers and security personnel to conduct a more comprehensive evaluation. This method integrates their existing experience with the aggregated display of multiple simulation results, which includes consideration of errors in pedestrian flow measurement through a visualization platform.
SBAA: Simulation-Based Agile Approach to Crowd Control Planning
Authors: Inoue Masako , Kimura Kazutaka , Yamauchi Atsushi
Published: March 2024

To prevent crowd incidents, it is important to share information among stakeholders from the planning stage of crowd management. However, numerous stakeholders are typically involved in crowd management for events, and it is difficult for each stakeholder to understand and agree on their goals, roles, responsibilities, and plans. Additionally, given the vast number of scenarios, it is also difficult to consolidate plans in an efficient and effective manner. Therefore, we devised the simulation-based agile approach (SBAA) methodology, which is characterized by “collaboration with stakeholders,” “responding to plan changes,” and “identifying quality requirements for operations through iterative proposals and agreements.” The first two characteristics are consistent with the Agile Manifesto, which has proven successful as a software development methodology. We participated in the creating of a crowd control plan for a local fireworks display and put SBAA into practice. The SBAA methodology and the effectiveness of SBAA in practice are discussed herein.
Evaluation of Tsunami Evacuation Plans for an Underground Mall Using an Agent-Based Model
Authors: Takahashi Akira , Yasufuku Kensuke
Published: March 2024

Tsunamis resulting from earthquakes can cause extensive damage, including infrastructure destruction, injuries, and fatalities. To address these risks, numerous tsunami evacuation simulations have been conducted to assess evacuation strategies and identify issues, particularly in Japan, where the Nankai Trough earthquake is anticipated, affecting underground malls in urban areas. Our previous research primarily focused on evacuating from underground to the surface, neglecting surface evacuation. Therefore, this study extended the previous study to include horizontal evacuation following the exit from the underground mall to ground level. It also considered the impact of pedestrian road crossings as interactions with vehicular traffic within the simulation to enhance realism and verify the evacuation risk. The study also explores scenarios where evacuation guide stairs are unavailable, comparing the effectiveness of alternative staircases in the evacuation plan. Results indicate that while using alternative staircases temporarily increases the number of evacuees reaching the surface, road crossings on evacuation routes become significant bottlenecks, leading to surface congestion and delayed evacuations. This raises doubts about the effectiveness of alternative staircases and highlights the need to consider alternative evacuation routes as a secondary plan. Additionally, the study reveals that reduced pedestrian flow at road crossings can significantly impact on evacuation times. Ultimately, this study demonstrated that achieving a short evacuation time from underground malls to the ground level might not always yield the best evacuation plan. It underscored the importance of considering aboveground factors in evacuation planning to ensure safety in the event of a tsunami caused by an earthquake.
Modeling and Questionnaire Survey for Effective Regulated Egress Based on Level of Discomfort
Authors: Miyagawa Riku , Yanagisawa Daichi , Jia Xiaolu , Shoji Yasushi , Aikoh Tetsuya , Nishinari Katsuhiro
Published: March 2024

Regulated egress is often conducted after large events to avoid extreme congestion at stations around event venues. In regulated egress, people are divided into several groups and egress in order. By controlling the number of groups and the time interval between each group’s egress, managers can mitigate the congestion at the stations. In this study, a mathematical model was developed to identify the effective regulated egress. level of discomfort (LOD) was used to evaluate the performance of the regulated egress instead of the total egress time. LOD is the product of the function of density and duration of egress and represents the accumulated discomfort through the egress. A questionnaire survey was conducted to determine the LOD function parameters. Under the assumed conditions, the results of the calibrated model indicated that effective regulated egress could be conducted by dividing the people into two or three groups, which is presumable in terms of management in the real world. In addition to the main result for the effective number of groups, the robustness of the model was confirmed by comparing the results of the two types of LOD functions. In other words, the effective number of groups does not strongly depend on the detailed form of the LOD functions.
Using Virtual Reality to Study the Effectiveness of Crowd Control Medium and Information
Authors: Miyano Shuhei
Published: March 2024

When designing crowd control through simulations, the appropriate crowd-control medium (objects used to convey control information, e.g., signages or security guards) and information should be selected, considering the crowd’s compliance with control instructions. However, there is still scope for further research on the influence of control medium and information on compliance behavior. Therefore, in this study, we measured the effectiveness of medium and information in guiding participants’ route choices by conducting a crowd experiment using virtual reality. The experimental findings confirmed that in terms of control medium, the guidance proffered by security guards was more effective than signage, with the odds of compliance rate approximately 1.54 times greater. Regarding control information, Guide control (direct guidance instruction) was more effective and received approximately 1.22 times greater odds of compliance rate than Advise control (indirect guidance through information presentation). Crowd-control designers can use the results obtained in this study to evaluate the effectiveness of control measures in crowd simulations.