bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pesticide Safety in Greek Plant Foods from the Consumer Perspective: The Importance of Reliable Information
Authors: Simoglou Konstantinos B. , Skarpa Paraskevi El. , Roditakis Emmanouil
Published: September 2023

Greek consumers perceive an increased risk of pesticide residues in food. This study examined Greek consumers' perceptions on the safety of Greek plant-based food compared to those originating from other EU countries. Half of Greek consumers believe that Greek food is as safe as other European foods, while the other half disagree. According to a principal components analysis and a bivariate logistic regression, several factors, such as perceived safety of plant foods, education, age, gender, traceability, perceived benefits and risks of pesticides, actual pesticide use, and authoritative information sources, influence this attitude. Authoritative knowledge in this field can reduce risk perception and improve Greek consumers’ attitudes towards food safety. Latent class analysis identified two categories of consumers. The first class receives limited information about pesticides, leading to a lower perceived pesticide benefits, higher mistrust of traceability and concerns about pesticide residues. In contrast, the second class actively searches for information from credible sources, endorses the Greek plant foods safety, acknowledges the pesticides benefits, and trust traceability. Official information is associated to reduced risk perception. Regulators should consider the impact of socio-demographic and other intrinsic characteristics on individuals' risk perceptions and prioritise transparency in risk communication strategies.
Unveiling the Secrets of Calcium-Dependent Proteins in Plant-Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria: An Abundance of Discoveries Awaits
Authors: Agaras Betina Cecilia , Grossi Cecilia Eugenia María , Ulloa Rita María
Published: September 2023

The role of calcium ions (Ca2+) is extensively documented and comprehensively understood in eukaryotic organisms. Nevertheless, emerging insights, primarily derived from studies on human pathogenic bacteria, suggest that this ion also holds a pivotal role in prokaryotes. In this review, our primary focus will be on unraveling the intricate Ca2+ toolkit within prokaryotic organisms, with particular emphasis on its implications in plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). To pinpoint and identify homologues of Ca2+ channels, pumps, exchangers, and Calcium-Binding Proteins (CaBPs) we undertook an in silico exploration in the genomes of four distinct PGPR strains using as query prokaryotic sequences that were experimentally confirmed to play a role in regulating intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) or sensing and transducing this essential cation. These investigations were conducted in Pseudomonas chlororaphis subsp. aurantiaca SMMP3, P. donghuensis SVBP6, Pseudomonas sp. BP01, and Methylobacterium sp. 2A. which have been isolated and characterized within our research laboratories. We also present experimental data to evaluate the influence of exogenous Ca2+ concentrations ([Ca2+]ex) on the growth dynamics of these isolated strains
E-Loyalty and E-marketing: A matter of E-Trust
Authors: Shabbir Benish , Xiaodong Qiu
Published: September 2023

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to further explore how e-loyalty and E-marketing influences E-trust and satisfy the demand by offering fresh perspectives based on research as well as emphasis on the factors influencing the E-trust such as culture as a mediator. This study not only contributed theoretically but also presented practical implementations.

Design/methodology/approach: Online survey was used to obtain data by focusing the Hospitality sector (Hotel Industry) and verifying the conceptual framework. Data was collected in multiple time lags.

Findings: Findings showed that the E-trust influenced by E-loyalty and E-Marketing. E-trust comes from the previous experiences, e-loyalty and e-marketing. Further, some trends such as culture influenced the e-trust.

Research limitation/implications: The present study is quite suitable for those Researchers interested in learning more about the effects of E-loyalty and E-marketing on user E-trust and how to mitigate cultural influences can benefit from the current study. This research also has implications for those who wish to improve market allure and survival in digital world. This study focused on the hospitality sector (Hotel Industry) in China; however, the sector and geography could be altered to suit the needs of the study's participants.

Practical implications: The present study delivers the practical guidelines which are quiet suitable for understanding the formation of E-loyalty, E-marketing, and E-trust through which specific E-marketing strategy can be designed to deal with the consumer’s E-loyalty and their expectations as per their Cultural perspective. At some particular regions/countries, cultural trends are more important than practical market. This research study practically showed that how culture changed the consumer set of mind.

Originality/value: The relationship between E-loyalty, E-marketing, E-trust, specifically with the cultural influence in digital market has been the subject of few research.
A Scoping Review on the Progress, Applicability, and Future of Explainable Artificial Intelligence in Medicine
Authors: González-Alday Raquel , García-Cuesta Esteban , Maojo Victor , Kulikowski Casimir
Published: September 2023

Due to the success of artificial intelligence (AI) applications in the medical field over the past decade, concerns about the explainability of these systems have increased. The reliability requirements of black-box led algorithms for making decisions affecting patients pose a challenge even beyond their accuracy. Recent advances in AI increasingly underscore the need to incorporate explainability into these systems. While most traditional AI methods and expert systems are inherently interpretable, recent literature has focused primarily on explainability techniques for more complex models such as deep learning. This scoping review analyzes the existing literature on explainability and interpretability of AI methods in the medical and clinical field, providing an overview of past and current research trends, and limitations that might impede the development of Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) in medicine, challenges, and possible research directions. In addition, this review discusses possible alternatives for leveraging medical knowledge to improve interpretability in clinical settings, while taking into account the needs of users.
Cross-Recognition of the ssgBp Promoter, Which Controls the Expression of the Sporulation–Specific Cell Division Gene ssgB, by Nine SigB Homologues in Streptomyces coelicolor A3(2)
Authors: Sevcikova Beatrica , Rezuchova Bronislava , Novakova Renata , Opaterny Filip , Javorova Rachel , Csolleiova Dominika , Feckova Lubomira , Kormanec Jan
Published: September 2023

In their natural environment, bacteria are exposed to various stresses. The stress-response sigma factor SigB of gram-positive Bacillus subtilis is the best-characterized example. Unlike Bacillus subtilis, the gram-positive bacterium Streptomyces coelicolor A3(2) contains nine SigB homologues (SigBFGHIKLMN) with a major role in differentiation and response to osmotic stress. We previously constructed a two-plasmid system to identify promoters recognized by these sigma factors. Interestingly, almost all identified promoters were recognized by two or more SigB homologues. However, no specific sequences characteristic for these recognition groups were found. To examine this cross-recognition in vivo in S. coelicolor A3 (2), one of these promoters was cho-sen, which drives the expression of the sporulation-specific gene ssgB. The ssgBp promoter was inserted into a luciferase reporter plasmid and conjugated to S. coelicolor M145 and nine mutant strains containing deleted individual sigB homologous genes. Luciferase reporter activity indi-cated differential activity of this promoter in these mutant strains, suggesting overlapping pro-moter recognition by these SigB homologues. To determine which nucleotides in the ̶ 10 re-gion are responsible for the selection of a specific SigB homologue, several mutant promoters with altered last three nucleotides in this region were prepared and tested in the two-plasmid system. Some mutant promoters were specifically recognized by some SigB homologues. Mutant promoters were inserted into a luciferase reporter plasmid and conjugated to S. coelicolor A3(2) and these nine mutant strains. Luciferase reporter activity indicated differential activity of these ssgBp mutant promoters, indicating overlapping promoter recognition by these SigB homologues in S. coelicolor A3(2).
Insight into a Steam Explosion Pretreatment of Sugarcane Bagasse for Bioethanol Production
Authors: Barciela P. , Perez-Vazquez A. , Fraga-Corral M. , Prieto M.A.
Published: September 2023

Lignocellulosic biomass is a powerful approach for the production of sustainable biofuels and the further achievement of the goal of biomass conversion into a second-generation clean energy that can cope with the depletion of fossil reserves and rising energy requirements. In the conversion process, a pretreatment is essential to overcome the recalcitrance of the lignocellulosic biomass, accelerate its disintegration into cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin and, in turn, get an optimal yield of fermentable sugars in the enzymatic hydrolysis. In addition to this, it should be industrially scalable and capable of enhancing fuel properties and feedstock processability. Here, steam explosion technology has stood out due to its results and advantages such as wide applicability, high efficiency in the short term, or lack of contamination in spite of its conventionality. This gentle and fast pretreatment incorporates high temperature autohydrolysis and structural alteration by explosive decompression. Steam explosion method has been one of the most effective especially for the hydrolysis of cellulose from agricultural wastes due to the lower quantity of acetyl groups in the composition of hemicellulose. In this aspect, sugarcane bagasse is a promising feedstock for bioethanol production due to its high cellulosic content and elevated availability. The objective of this review has been to compile the latest information on steam explosion pretreatment, stages, equipment, variables involved, by-products generated, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of the technique. At the same time, its feasibility and viability using sugarcane bagasse as feedstock has been discussed. Finally, the effectiveness of the technique with different feedstocks has been evaluated.
The Importance of Toothbrushing and Oral Hygiene in Maintaining Oral Health
Authors: Pérez-Portilla Tanny , Ortíz-Benitez Domingo Lubín , Lucas-Rincón Salvador Eduardo , Canseco-Prado Gabriel , Delgado-Pérez Víctor Jesús , Scougall-Vilchis Rogelio José , Robles-Bermeo Norma Leticia , Alonso-Sánchez Carmen Celina , Veras-Hernández Miriam Alejandra , Medina-Solís Carlo Eduardo
Published: September 2023

This work explores the significance of toothbrushing in maintaining optimal oral health, delving into its benefits, proper techniques, and types of toothbrushes. The primary cause of caries, periodontal diseases, and halitosis is oral biofilm development. One of the most fundamental practices in maintaining oral health is toothbrushing. Studies have confirmed that mechanical procedures for controlling plaque and toothbrushing, in particular, significantly decrease plaque accumulation. The significance of teeth brushing in preventing dental caries has been well-acknowledged for a considerable period. Dentists recommend brushing twice daily for at least two min to ensure thorough cleaning. Unfortunately, precise guidelines from dental associations are often missing. Authors mention that two min of brushing are insufficient for significant plaque removal; plaque removal increases with augmented brushing time, with maximum removal at 180 s. Multiple studies have documented that engaging in the practice of brushing one’s teeth twice a day has a preventive impact. Various toothbrush designs, including both manual and electric options, have been created to improve the elimination of dental biofilm and reduce the accumulation and persistence of bacteria. In conclusion, toothbrushing is a simple yet incredibly important practice for maintaining oral health. The benefits extend beyond just a bright smile, encompassing caries, gum disease, halitosis prevention, and the preservation of tooth enamel. Adhering to proper toothbrushing techniques, selecting the right toothbrush, and understanding the connection between oral health and overall well-being can lead to a healthier life. To foster favorable toothbrushing behaviors among the population, dental practitioners and public health experts must know the factors that influence toothbrushing habits.
A Robust Generator-Harvester For Independent Sensor Systems
Authors: Zukal Jiri , Szabo Zoltan , Kříž Tomáš , Kadlec Radim , Dedkova Jarmila , Fiala Pavel Jan
Published: September 2023

This work focuses on the research area of energy generation and harvesting for its transformation into electrical energy with the primary use of energy independent sensor systems in the power range P=10-10000W. These systems are applied in sensing quantities in the transport sector (bridge structures, transport infrastructure, and the others ). The proposed theoretical harvester models describing the transformation of motion energy into electrical energy, also provides theoretical and experimental models. Results obtained in the design and construction of a robust motion generator with primarily linear geometry system technology are presented. The expected output electrical power of the harvester is variable and is designed based on the linear motion generated by the engine- compressed air, small fuel system, etc. The fundamental design of the generator core has been continuously numerically modeled and an experimental setup has been developed to analyze specific parts and variations in order to validate the concept and achieve the most suitable parameters with the selected construction materials. A scaled down version of the model principle was tested in experiments and then the parameters and results were compared with the predicted theoretical analyses.
Based on UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS, the Effect of Chemical Composition before and after Fermentation of Gastrodia Tuder Halimasch Powder Was Compared
Authors: Wu Yaning , Zhang Hongwei , Zhang Zhenling , Zhu Jianguang , Ma Songbo , Zhao Yongqi , Wang Yiming , Yuan Jun , Guo Xing , Li Yajing , Zhang Shuai
Published: September 2023

Abstract：Objective: To compare the effects of fermentation on the chemical composition of Gastrodia Tuder Halimasch Powder, and to provide a basis for the processing, processing and clinical application of this medicinal material. Methods: UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS was used to identify compound structure by comparing excimer ions, characteristic fragment ions and reference substances, and referring to relevant literature and database search. The main differential components were screened by orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA), and the differential components were quantitatively studied by high performance liquid chromatography, and the differences in the types and contents of chemical components before and after fermentation were compared. Results: A total of 77 compounds were identified or preliminarily derived after fermentation, including 21 terpenes, 18 organic acids, 9 flavonoids, 7 nucleosides, 6 amides, 4 amino acids, 2 pyrrolidone derivatives, 2 sterols, 2 alkaloids and 6 others.Through high performance liquid chromatography, it was found that the content of daidzein genistein and ergosterol was significantly increased after fermentation, and a new component ergosterol was produced. Compared with Gastrodia Tuder Halimasch Powder before fermentation, the content of genistin and other components was significantly reduced, and there may be a process of genistin conversion to genistein.Conclusion: The fermentation process will have a certain influence on the types and contents of the chemical components of Gastrodia Tuder Halimasch Powder, and ergosterol, genistein and .daidzein may be the main pharmacodynamic components, which can provide a useful reference for the clinical rational application, quality control and mechanism of action of Gastrodia Tuder Halimasch Powder.
Intrusion Detection System in Smart Grid-A Review
Authors: Banik Shampa , Banik Trapa , Banik Shudipta
Published: September 2023

The smart grid system, an improvised form of the traditional grid, is considered a critical cyber-physical system. Due to its complex combination of smart and legacy technologies, this technology is characterized by a wide range of features such as full duplex communication, advanced metering infrastructure, remote monitoring, and control. However, despite this system’s substantial environmental and socio-economic impact on modern life, it poses severe security vulnerabilities due to its integration and interconnected and interdependent cyber-physical components. Based on the rapid development of cyber-physical systems (CPS), academics and industries have investigated relevant techniques to enhance and strengthen the security measures of the SG system. The intrusion detection system is a countermeasure, a powerful safeguard against various cyber-attacks and threats. The contribution of the IDSs to the SG paradigm is examined in this study. A comprehensive review has been presented in this study, highlighting different techniques, basic ideas, and analyses. Besides discussing the contemporary pertinent research studies, the shortcomings of the existing IDS for the SG system are also identified with a recommendation for future research direction.
Effects of Climate Crisis on Marine Ecosystem: Mass Mortality Event of the Mediterranean Mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) in the Middle Adriatic
Authors: Bracchetti Luca , Capriotti Martina , Fazzini Massimiliano , Cocci Paolo , Palermo Francesco Alessandro
Published: September 2023

The effects of the climate crisis are affecting ecosystems at different scales and magnitudes. This paper focuses on a massive Mediterranean mussel die-off observed along the middle Italian Adriatic coast in the summer of 2022. We considered the possible environmental causes of this phenomenon and carried out a climatic analysis of the last decades and in detail of recent summers. We performed field surveys in different locations along a 16 Km coastal stretch (from Martinsicuro (TE) on the South, to Grottammare (AP) on the North). The study area includes two marine Sites of Community Importance under the European Natura 2000 network. The mussels die-off has in-terested practically all the natural mussel-beds colonizing the study area. Mussels are sessile fil-ter-feeding organisms inhabiting the intertidal zone, therefore, are highly exposed to variations in environmental conditions such as temperature and nutrient load. We discuss the possible causes of this die-off, proposing that high temperature and the scarce availability of food acted simulta-neously as stress factors, generating local unsustainable living conditions for this species.
A Unified Efficient Deep Learning Architecture for Rapid Safety Objects Classification using Normalized Quantization-Aware Learning
Authors: Stephen Okeke , Nguyen Minh
Published: September 2023

The efficient recognition and classification of personal protective equipment are essential for en-suring the safety of personnel in complex industrial settings. Using the existing methods, manually performing macro-level classification and identification of personnel in intricate spheres is tedious, time-consuming, and inefficient. The availability of several artificial intelligence models in recent times presents a new paradigm shift in object classification and tracking in complex settings. In this study, several compact and efficient deep learning model architectures are explored, and a new efficient model is constructed by fusing the learning capabilities of the individual, efficient models for better object feature learning and optimal inferencing. The new model construct follows the contributory learning theory whereby each fussed model brings its learned features, which are then combined to obtain a more accurate and rapid model using normalized quantization-aware learning. During the investigation, a separable convolutional driven model was constructed as a base model, and then the various efficient architectures combined for the rapid identification and classification of the various hardhat classes used in complex industrial settings. A remarkable rapid classification and accuracy were recorded with the new resultant model.
Comparative Study of Growth Performance, Blood Biochemistry, Rumen Fermentation, Ruminal and Fecal Bacterial Structure Between Yaks and Cattle Raised Under High Concentrate Feeding Conditions
Authors: Liu Xiaojing , Yang Zhanming , Yang Jinfen , Wang Dongyang , Niu Jianzhang , Bai Binqiang , Sun Wu , Ma Shike , Cheng Yanfen , Hao Lizhuang
Published: September 2023

This study compared growth performance, serum biochemical indicators, rumen fermentation parameters, rumen bacterial structure, and fecal bacterial structure of cattle and yaks, fed for two months, given a feed containing concentrate to roughage ratio of 7: 3 on dry matter basis. Compared with cattle, yak showed better growth performance. The serum biochemical results showed that the albumin: globulin ratio in yaks serum was significantly higher than that in cattle. Aspartate aminotransferase, indirect bilirubin, creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase and total cholesterol were significantly lower in yaks than that in cattle. Rumen pH, acetate to propionate ratio, and acetate were lower in yaks than in cattle while the lactate in yaks was higher than in cattle. There were significant differences in the structure of ruminal as well as fecal bacteria between cattle and yaks. The prediction of rumen bacterial function showed that there was metabolic difference between cattle and yaks. In general, the metabolic pathway of cattle was mainly riched in de novo synthesis of nucleotides, while that of yaks was mainly riched in the metabolic utilization of nutrients. This study provides a basis for understanding the rumen ecology under the condition of high concentrate diet.
Ultrasound Features and Clinical Outcome of Patients with Ovarian Masses Diagnosed during Pregnancy: Experience of Gynecological Single Ultrasound Center
Authors: Bruno Matteo , Capanna Giulia , Stanislao Veronica , Ciuffreda Raffaella , Tabacco Sara , Fantasia Ilaria , Di Florio Christian , Stabile Guglielmo , D’Alfonso Angela , Guido Maurizio , Ludovisi Manuela
Published: September 2023

(1) Background: adnexal masses during pregnancy detection are increased due to the use of first trimester screening and to advanced maternal age. Although the low risk of malignancy, other risks are associated: torsion, rupture or labour obstruction. Correct diagnosis and management are fundamental to guarantee both maternal and fetal safety. Adnexal masses may be troublesome to classify during pregnancy due to the increase in the uterus volume and to pregnancy-related hormonal changes. Management should be based on ultrasound examination to provide the best treatment. (2) Methods: the aim was to describe the ultrasound features of ovarian masses detected during pregnancy. We evaluated patient’s management, perinatal outcomes and follow-up. (3) Results: our study demonstrated that the management should be guided by an accurate ultrasound examination performed by an expert operator according to standardized techniques. Secondly, our results confirm the data present in the literature: the masses are most frequently benign, ultrasound follow-up is the best management strategy and obstetric outcome is not considerably affected. (4) Conclusions: the management of patients with ovarian masses detected during pregnancy should be based on ultrasound examination and a centralization in referral centers for ovarian masses should be considered.
Traffic and industrial contributions of particle-bound PAHs during an air pollution event in Metropolitan Area of Medellin-Colombia: Inhalation intake risk during pregnancy
Authors: Narváez-Valderrama Jhon Fredy , Alzate-B Sandra Viviana , Correa-Gil Vanessa , García-L Juan José , Bedoya-Soto Juan Mauricio , Molina-P Francisco José , A Pauta-Calle Gladys Guillermin , Vázquez-Guillén Gabriela Belén , Ramos-Contreras Carlos D.
Published: September 2023

Air pollution includes particle-bound Polycyclic Aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) which eventually reach the placenta triggering adverse perinatal outcomes by long-term exposure. Late-ly, air pollution has increased over the Metropolitan Area of Medellin-Colombia (MAMC) but its effects on pregnancy are still unknown. In this research, we made a real-time analysis of airborne total PAHs using a photoelectric sensor for residential places influenced by industrial and traffic sources contrasting southern and northern MAMC during the second peak of the bimodal ten-dency for PM2.5 emissions in this region. Additionally, we analyzed individual PAHs by GC/MS coupled to pressurized hot water extraction methodology. Data was applied in an Inhalation In-take Model to assess pregnancy exposure. The average concentration of PAHs over southern MAMC was three times higher than over northern MAMC where the abortion rate has been 1.4 times higher presented in database. Previous research found that PAHs act as an Endo-crine-Disrupting Chemical (EDC) during pregnancy and even heavy congeners could reside in umbilical cord blood. Finally, the annual series of abortion rates in the MAMC showed a signifi-cant correlation with the annual average levels of PM2.5 which are associate to PAHs. Although this significant correlation does not imply causality, our results suggest an important connection between both variables. This latter finding opens a gap in deeply understanding how regions with high PAHs-convergence influences abortion rates in MAMC.
A Multi-Fidelity Successive Response Surface Method for Crashworthiness Optimization Problems
Authors: Lualdi Pietro , Sturm Ralf , Siefkes Tjark
Published: September 2023

Due to the high computational burden and the high nonlinearity of the responses, crashworthiness optimizations are notoriously hard-to-solve challenges. Among various approaches, methods like the Successive Response Surface Method (SRSM) have stood out for their efficiency in enhancing baseline designs within a few iterations. However, these methods have limitations that restrict their application. Their minimum iterative resampling required is often computationally prohibitive. Furthermore, surrogate models are conventionally constructed using Polynomial Response Surface (PRS), a method that is poorly versatile, prone to overfitting, and incapable of quantifying uncertainty. Furthermore, the lack of continuity between successive response surfaces results in suboptimal predictions. This paper introduces the Multi-Fidelity Successive Response Surface (MF-SRS), a Gaussian process-based method, which leverages a nonlinear multi-fidelity approach for more accurate and efficient predictions compared to SRSM. After initial testing on synthetic problems, this method is applied to a real-world crashworthiness task: optimizing a bumper crossmember and crash box system. Results, benchmarked against SRSM and the Gaussian Process Successive Response Surface (GP-SRS) – a single-fidelity Gaussian process-driven extension of SRSM, show that MF-SRS offers distinct advantages. Specifically, it improves upon the specific energy absorbed optimum value achieved by SRSM by 14.1 %, revealing its potential for future applications.
Who Is Being Left behind in Water Security towards the Achievement of the 2030 Agenda?
Authors: Ingutia Rose
Published: September 2023

We investigate if anyone is being left behind in accessing safely managed drinking water (SM) in achieving the 2030 agenda. We use 23 countries grouped globally as critically insecure water (CIWC). The results indicate none of the CIWC had over 50% of the population accessing SM, N. America and Europe had highest percentages while Sub Saharan Africa had the least. People left behind are found in rural areas, in countries vulnerable to climate change because of poor governance, low-income, and women’s low education. Institutional quality, equity and equality should be improved in using resources critical to leaving no one behind.
Automatic Tracking of NBA Statistics from a Live Broadcast
Authors: Veršnik Anže , Šajn Luka
Published: September 2023

People often make mistakes, so we try to automate every aspect of our lives. Sports is no
exception. While just over a decade ago humans were analyzing games, today this is being done
by artificial intelligence. Due to rapid development over the past decade, neural networks are
now faster, more accurate, and in some areas even better than their human counterparts. In this
paper, we present an algorithm that can detect player statistics during an NBA broadcast. It
also helps users better understand the game and the use of augmented reality. The algorithm
detects players on the court, tracks their movements, and assigns them to their respective teams.
Using homography estimation, we transform the players’ positions from a three-dimensional space
in the video to a two-dimensional space on the playing field plane. We define a new algorithm
that predicts the players’ actions and their statistics. The results show that the proposed method
can effectively identify the players, their respective teams, and their positions. It can also analyze
their actions with high accuracy.
Shelf Life of Foods and Bioactive Materials Used in the Antimi-Crobial Food Packaging
Authors: Baysal Gülay , Ateş Kudret , Akbulut Abdullah , Özpinar Haydar
Published: September 2023

In the food sector, packaging is one of the important steps that ensures the safe, unspoiled, min-imum cost of storing, transporting and delivering the food that goes into production to the con-sumer. Food spoilage caused by foodborne pathogens and microorganisms is a serious problem in the food chain, reducing the shelf life of foods. Therefore, consumers' demands for more natural, disposable, biodegradable and recyclable antibacterial food packaging materials have considera-bly increased. This review covers a comprehensive current literature review of antibacterial food packaging, which includes with titles antibacterial agents, organic acids and other compounds, enzymes, bacteriocins, natural extracts, essential oils, application of encapsulation and antimi-crobial packaging. Research findings on antimicrobial food packaging used to extend the shelf life of foods were collected from online databases such as PubMed/MedLine, Wiley Online Li-brary, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. In this review, the activities of different bio-materials and compounds used to extend the shelf life of foods were compared
Facile Fabrication of High Performance Superhydrophobic Reusable Oil Absorbing Sponge
Authors: Kudaibergenova Rabiga , Sugurbekov Erzhigit , Sugurbekova Gulnar , Demeuova Gulzat
Published: September 2023

Wastewater treatment from oils and oil products, organic mixtures are a very relevant topic that can be successfully used to solve problems of serious environmental pollution, such as oil spills, industrial oily wastewater discharges and water treatment in the water treatment process. In this work, we have developed new superhydrophobic magnetic polyurethane (PU) sponges functionalized with reduced graphene oxide (RGO), MgFe2O4 nanoparticles, and silicone oil (SO) as a selective and reusable sorbent for purification and separation of wastewater from oils and organic solvents. The surface morphology and wettability of the sponge surface were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and a contact angle analysis system, respectively. The results showed that the obtained PU sponge PU/RGO/MgFe2O4/SO had excellent mechanical and water-repellent properties, reusable properties (more than 20 cycles), as well as fast (immersion time 20 sec) and excellent adsorption capacity (16.61- 44.86 g / g), and good magnetic properties made it easy to separate the sponge from the water with a magnet. And the presence of RGO in the composition of the nanomaterial improves the separating and cleaning properties of materials, and also leads to an increase in the absorption capacity of oil and various organic solvents. The synthesized PU sponge has great potential for practical applications due to its facile fabrication and excellent oil-water separation property.
Determinants of Access to Bank Financing in SMEs in Mexico
Authors: Jiménez Rico Artemio , Gómez López Claudia Susana , Zamilpa Paredes Johanan
Published: September 2023

Several empirical studies indicate that the lack of financing is one of the main barriers that affects the economic growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The main objective of this investigation was to determine to what extent the economic sector; enterprise size; the characteristics inherent to the enterprise; legal status; the variables linked to the performance of the enterprise; and the attributes of the owner influence the access to bank financing of SMEs in Mexico. Using a discrete response probit regression model, the impact of enterprises characteristics on the probability of obtaining a bank loan was determined. The data collected is from the Enterprise Surveys of Mexico, carried out by the World Bank. The sample of 1,480 enterprises is representative by enterprise size, by economic sector, and by region. The research has a quantitative approach with a correlational scope and a non-experimental and transectional design. One of the main results highlights that the determinants with the greatest influence on access to bank financing are: age, the small size, foreign participation, and the manufacturing sector. These results are consistent with other empirical studies, as well as with the pecking order theory and the financial life cycle theory.
A Comprehensive Monitoring System for Health Status and Behavior of Pigs Under Different Environmental Conditions Using Vision and Audio Technologies
Authors: Lagua Eddiemar B. , Mun Hong-Seok , Ampode Keiven Mark B. , Chem Veasna , Park Hae-rang , Kim Young-Hwa , Yang Chul-Ju
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to assess the feasibility of employing audio and vision technologies as an integrated monitoring system to monitor the health and behavior of pigs under different environmental conditions and to associate these factors. A total of 81 growing pigs ((Landrace x Largewhite) x Duroc) with distinct weight categories (10.47 ± 2.57 kg and 28.81 ± 5.03 kg) were distributed into two distinct housing conditions: Control (characterized by low NH3 levels and low stocking density) and Treatment (marked by elevated NH3 levels and varying stocking densities). Each house was installed with a SoundTalks monitor for automated daily evaluation of respiratory health status (ReHS), and a camera with a microphone to facilitate manual tracking of respiratory symptoms and behavioral patterns. Results showed that the Treatment group encountered significantly high room temperature, NH3 concentration, and carbon dioxide levels, resulting in compromised growth performance—a phenomenon further exacerbated in high stocking density conditions. Pigs within the treatment exhibited increases (p < 0.05) in lateral and total lying behaviors, and incidences of ear and tail injuries, increases screaming frequency, conjunctivitis incidences, coughing frequency, elevated respiration rates, and a decrease in ReHS. The environmental conditions affect the behavior and health of the pigs. Moreover, the behavioral patterns of the pigs are associated with their health conditions. The SoundTalks system did not trigger any warnings during the experimental period. Nevertheless, trend analysis indicated a significant reduction in respiratory health in the treatment. In conclusion, this study underscores the efficacy of merging audio and visual technologies to holistically monitor pig health and behavior, enabling enhanced management strategies. Findings emphasize that monitoring the ReHS trend serves as a pivotal marker for identifying respiratory health problems, complementing the system's innate alarm functions.
Throwing Good Money, and Millions of Lives, after Bad
Authors: Triunfol Marcia
Published: September 2023

Escalation of commitment explains the choice for investing in an option for which great investments have previously been made even though better choices became available. The last 25 years of producing innumerous versions of Alzheimer Disease animal models with virtually no predictive validity should have exposed the fact that using animals for studying AD is clearly a failing course of action and as such should have been abandoned long ago, giving room to other alternatives to flourish. In this assay, I explore the idea that the investment in new animal models for studying Alzheimer (AD) represents a classic case of escalation of commitment, and sunk cost dilemma, in the biomedical research.
Asset Information Model Management based GIS/BIM Integration in Facility Management Contract
Authors: Ismaeil Esam M. H.
Published: September 2023

The efficiency success status of organization built environment assets management needs robust and comprehensive maintenance processes which depends on the efficiency of the contract information documents for the maintenance management within the assets life cycle and achieve positive return of the investments. Therefore, this paper highlights on the appropriate interactive approach to structuring information flow scope of the asset facilities management contract for construction projects based on GIS and BIM integration processes, sustainability standards, and As-built contractual documents of the project to support the organization owner and stakeholder to improve the asset management processes. Using expert interviews with comprehensive understand for the information type in several facility management contracts conducted in common Organization types based on reviewing available international facility management standards manual and contract of procedures for different services types, and required information flow inside international facility management firms. The study classify and build significant integrated information and data flow model contract drafting with measures and indicators of performance efficiency as guideline for monitoring, technically evaluating, and financially procedures for performance efficiency and quality of services provided in the facilities management contract for King Faisal University campus projects as a case study.
Cancer Stem Cells and Androgen Receptor Signaling: Partners in Disease Progression
Authors: Quintero Juan Carlos , Díaz Néstor Fabián , Rodríguez-Dorantes Mauricio , Camacho-Arroyo Ignacio
Published: September 2023

The cancer stem cell hypothesis suggests that neoplastic cells with stem characteristics hierarchically regulate tumor generation and its high cellular heterogeneity. These cells have been detected in all cancer types, and specific signaling pathways give the regulation of self-renewal and differentiation. In prostate cancer, androgen receptor signaling has been extensively studied, and in non-stem cells, it promotes cell proliferation and tumor progression, but in the cancer stem cell population, it negatively regulates processes such as self-renewal. However, in other types of cancer, such as breast and glioblastoma, the androgen receptor seems to favor the maintenance of cancer stem cells, suggesting that androgen signaling has different effects depending on the tumor context. This review discusses the role of androgen receptor in maintaining cancer stem cells by regulating proliferation, self-renewal, and differentiation, as well as the possible signaling pathways involved in these processes.
Critical Factors Determining The Adoption of Sustainable Upland Agriculture In Upland Lawu, Indonesia
Authors: Karyanto Puguh , Hanapi Mohammad
Published: September 2023

Several sustainable farming practices have been introduced and have shown a low farmer participation. This paper scrutinizes factors behind the poor adoption of sustainable upland agriculture by engaging the DPSIR in combination with the framework of Capacity-Incentive and Environmental Degradation. This paper employed a simple random sampling method by applying a questionnaire to 408 farmers. We used multiple linear regression analysis to know the linkage between the predictor and the dependent variable. The resulted R-Square was 0.649, with the F statistic less than 0.05. The regression model can explain the linkage between the proposed predictors and the dependent variable. Governmental incentive is the significant predictor affecting the adoption of sustainable upland agriculture. Ensuring the profitability of it by facilitating market channels, credit, and allocating subsidies for organic input are critical. Building human capital in agriculture through services is also critical in strengthening the upland farmers’ confidence to adopt sustainable agriculture.
Pengaruh Penambahan Limbah Serbuk Kaca dan Limbah Serbuk Kayu Terhadap Kuat Tekan dan Daya Serap Air Paving Block
Authors: Erlangga Muhammad Fadhil , Handayani Dewi
Published: September 2023

Garbage is one of the major factors in environmental pollution. When the waste management process is not proportionate to the amount of garbage generated, the impact of the accumulation of waste makes the pollution of waste more noticeable. Efforts undertaken in waste management, i.e. using glass waste and wood powder waste as sand subtitles on paving block manufacturing, are expected to reduce environmental pollution problems. The study aims to obtain the highest pressures strength values and the lowest water absorption on paving blocks with a variation of glass waste of 2.5%, 5%, 7,5%, 10%, 12,5% and wood powder of 10% as a subtitling of sand paving block mixed material. From the test results obtained the highest pressures strength value of the variation of mixture of glass powder 5% and wood powder 10% of 4.30 MPa. At the test results, the lowest water absorption was obtained from a variation of a mixture of 5% glass powder and 10% wood powder of 6.42%.
Analisis Emisi CO dan CO2 pada Simpang Bersinyal Bejen Kabupaten Karanganyar
Authors: Purnomoasri RA Dinasty , Yuono Teguh , Sumina Sumina , Utama Febryan Dwi Listyo
Published: September 2023

Saat ini COVID sudah berangsur menurun ditandai dengan kembali meningkatnya pergerakan arus lalu lintas kembali normal. Simpang Bersinyal Bejen di Kabupaten Karanganyar terletak di kawasan komersial yang tentunya peningkatan pergerakan transportasi daerah tersebut cukup besar Permasalahan yang muncul di simpang tidak hanya kinerja tetapi juga lingkungan yaitu polusi udara akibat emisi gas buang yang kembali meningkat paska COVID. Oleh karena itu dilakukan penelitian untuk mengetahui berapa emisi gas bung CO dan CO2 yang dihasilkan oleh simpang Bejen. Metode yang digunakan adalah analisis kinerja simpang menggunakan MKJI dan analisis emisi gas buang CO dan CO2 berdasarkan PERMENLH Indonesia. Hasil analisis kinerja simpang bersinyal Bejen didapatkan DS 1,171 dimana > 0,85 dan panjang antrian sebesar 458 m. Emisi CO dihasilkan sebesar 21,34085774 ton/tahun dan CO2 sebesar 3.165,728587 ton/tahun. Reduksi emisi perlu dilakukan dengan melakukan percobaan analisis alternatif pelebaran jalan 1 m dan 2 m. Hasil analisis menunjukkan dengan adanya pelebaran tersebut mampu menurunkan emisi CO dan CO2 sebesar 55,07% dan 56,85%.
DESAIN DAN IMPLEMENTASI MANAGEMENT BANDWIDTH PADA HOTSPOT MIKROTIK DI SMK MUTIARA 17 AGUSTUS BEKASI
Authors: Achmad Fauzi  , M. Ficky Duskarnaen  , Hamidillah Ajie
Published: September 2023

Desain Dan Implementasi Management Bandwitdh Pada Hotspot Mikrotik Di SMK Mutiara 17 Agustus Bekasi. Pembimbing M. Ficky Duskarnaen, ST., M.Sc dan Hamidillah Ajie, S.Si., M.T.

Pengelolaan pada SMK Mutiara 17 Agustus saat ini masih belum maksimal. Permasalahan yang sering terjadi yakni guru maupun murid mendapatkan koneksi internet yang sangat lambat meskipun yang dimiliki SMK Mutiara 17 Agustus yakni 50 Mbps. Adanya router Mikrotik dan beberapa perangkat jaringan lainnya tidak dimanfaatkan dengan baik untuk menunjang kebutuhan internet guru serta murid dalam mengakses bahan ajar. Oleh sebab itu, dibuatlah desain dan implementasi sistem manajemen agar dapat menunjang kebutuhan guru dan murid di SMK Mutiara 17 Agustus.

Proses desain dimulai dari tahap perancangan sampai dengan pengujian. Konfigurasi manajemen menggunakan router Mikrotik. Sedangkan metode yang digunakan adalah metode simple queue. Proses pengujian hasil desain menggunakan metode blackbox testing dengan teknik feature test. Hasil dari pengujian menunjukkan bahwa desain manajemen menggunakan hotspot Mikrotik dapat bekerja dengan baik dan dapat dijadikan acuan dalam implementasi kebutuhan koneksi guru dan murid pada SMK Mutiara 17 Agustus.
PENGEMBANGAN VIDEO PEMBELAJARAN BERBASIS MOTION GRAPHIC PADA MATA PELAJARAN PROGDAS UNTUK PESERTA DIDIK DI SMKN 48 JAKARTA PROGRAM KEAHLIAN MULTIMEDIA
Authors: Melati Wahidaini  , Hamidillah Ajie  , Bambang Prasetya Adhi
Published: September 2023

Perkembangan teknologi yang begitu pesat, guru dituntut untuk lebih kreatif dan mengembangkan keterampilannya dalam membuat media pembelajaran untuk membantu tingkat pemahaman siswa dalam mencapai tujuan pembelajaran. Sayangnya, berdasarkan hasil observasi, modul yang diberikan guru Mata Pelajaran Pemrograman Dasar SMK Negeri 48 Jakarta, ditemukan bahwa media pembelajaran yang digunakan dalam Mata Pelajaran Pemrograman Dasar khususnya materi flowchart masih kurang baik dikarenakan modul dan power point yang biasa digunakan mengandung banyak teks sehingga lebih lama untuk diserap dan dipahami siswa. Berdasarkan penelitian yang relevan, media pembelajaran berupa video berbasis motion graphic dipilih karena kaya akan animasi  dan illustrasi yang baik yang dibutuhkan untuk membantu siswa agar lebih memahami materi pelajaran Pemrograman Dasar dan agar materi yang disampaikan dapat lebih mudah diingat. Sebagai solusi dari masalah tersebut, dibuatlah media pembelajaran video motion graphic yang dikembangkan dengan metode Multimedia Development Live Cycle (MDLC), yang di dalamnya terdapat tahap pengonsepan, perancangan, pengumpulan data, produksi, evaluasi, dan pendistribusian dengan menerapkan 3 prinsip multimedia pembelajaran yaitu  prinsip koherensi, redudansi, dan personalisasi. Dalam media pembelajaran ini tidak akan mencantumkan gambar, teks, animasi yang dirasa tidak penting dan tidak ada kaitannya dengan materi (prinsip koherensi). Selain itu juga tidak akan menyatukan narasi dan animasi dengan teks yang panjang, karena penjelasan dengan narasi akan lebih mudah dimengerti dibanding animasi dan teks yang panjang (prinsip redudansi). Prinsip personalisasi dengan gaya penyampaian dengan bahasa yang biasa digunakan sehari-hari dan tidak kaku, sehingga dapat lebih mudah dipahami (prinsip personalisasi). Produk media pembelajaran yang dihasilkan memiliki validitas tinggi karena sudah melalui proses uji validitas oleh tim ahli dan uji coba lapangan. Produk yang dihasilkan berupa video pembelajaran berbasis motion graphic yang memiliki tingkat kelayakan 97,67% yang masuk ke dalam kategori sangat baik.