bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liquid treatment of food coloring industry waste using coconut and chitosan in removal dyes
Authors: Yusuf Defana Makartina , Rahma Nur Aini , Purwaningsih Dian Yanuarita
Published: June 2023

Liquid waste has a component containing water that has been mixed with chemical compounds. One example of liquid waste containing chemical compounds is wastewater from a food coloring industry. The liquid waste of the food coloring industry has a very strong color density so that it has a negative impact on the environment, therefore it is necessary to treat liquid waste in order to meet the quality standards of wastewater in accordance with East Java Governor Regulation number 72 of 2013. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of adding dose of coagulant and mass of biosorbent on percent color removal in food coloring industrial wastewater. The results showed that the addition of 35% coagulant and 13% biosorbent resulted in 97% optimal removal of color.
Parameter evaluation of extraction using microwave hydrodistillation ultrasonic-pretreatment on yield of black pepper oil
Authors: Panjaitan Renova , Erliyanti Nove Kartika , Putra Sandy Buana , Wicaksono Achmad Pemadi , Syahrani Alza Nadilla , Amanda Nabila Ayu
Published: June 2023

Black pepper is one of Indonesia's agricultural commodities, contributing foreign exchange to the country. However, the economic value of this commodity has decreased. It is influenced by the lack of diversified black pepper products, which of course, have a higher value than raw material marketing. One product diversification that can be developed is black pepper oil. In obtaining essential oils, appropriate methods and technology are needed so that the resulting product is of high quality and the process is carried out efficiently. The latest methods in extraction that are being developed are microwave and ultrasonic technology. Therefore, in this study, black pepper oil extraction was carried out using the microwave hydrodistillation method, whereas previously, ultrasonic pretreatment was given for the material. In this case, observations were made on the influence of extraction parameters. Based on the research, it was found that increasing the distiller size flask and ambient temperature could increase the percentage of essential oils yield. At the same time, the longer extraction time caused a decrease in yield. Decreasing the material particle size and increasing microwave power could cause an increase in yield up to a certain point. The best results in black pepper oil extraction were obtained under extraction conditions using a distiller size of 1000mL, extraction time of 60 minutes, at an ambient temperature of 30 oC, the particle size of 60 mesh, at a power of 450 W with a yield of 1.056%, with the characteristics of having a clear greenish colour and anRI of 1.480. These specifications comply with ISO 3061:2008 for essential oil from black pepper. Thus, these parameters can be considered in the black pepper oil extraction process to produce marketable products. As a suggestion for further research, modeling, and process scale-up can be developed.
Detection of Mutations and Genotyping of Drug-Resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis Strains Isolated from Patients in Rural Eastern Cape Province
Authors: Faye Lindiwe Modest , Warren Robin , Vasaikar Sandeep , Hosu Mojisola C. , Sineke Ncomeka , Oostvogels Selien , Dippenaar Anzaan , Apalata Teke
Published: June 2023

Drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) is still a major public health concern in South Africa. Mutations in M. tuberculosis can cause varying levels of phenotypic resistance to anti-TB medications. There have been no prior studies on gene mutations and the genotyping of DR-TB in the rural Eastern Cape Province; hence we aimed to identify DR-TB mutations, genetic diversity and allocated lineages among patients in this area. Using Xpert® MTB/RIF, we assessed the rifampin-resistance of sputum samples collected from 1157 patients suspected of having tuberculosis. GenoType MTBDR plus VER 2.0 was used for the detection of mutations causing resistance to anti-TB medications. The next step was to spotlight type 441 isolates. The most prevalent rifampin resistance-conferring mutations were in rpoB codon S531L, in INH-resistant strains, katG gene at codon S315TB and the inhA gene at codon C-15TB had highest mutations; 54.5% and 24.7%, respectively. In addition, 24.6% of strains showed mutations in both the rpoB and inhA genes, while 69.9% of strains showed mutations in both the katG and rpoB genes. Heteroresistance was seen in 17.9% of all cases in the study. According to spoligotyping analysis, Beijing families predominated. Investigating the evolutionary lineages of M. tuberculosis isolates can be done using the information provided by the study's diversity of mutations. In locations where these mutations have been discovered, decision-making regarding standardization of treatment regimens or individualized treatment may be aided by the detection frequency of rpoB, katG, and inhA mutations in various study areas.
Human Action Recognition in Smart Living Services and Applications: Context Awareness, Data Availability, Personalization, and Privacy
Authors: Diraco Giovanni , Rescio Gabriele , Caroppo Andrea , Manni Andrea , Leone Alessandro
Published: June 2023

Smart Living, an increasingly prominent concept, entails incorporating sophisticated technologies in homes and urban environments to elevate the quality of life for citizens. A critical success factor for Smart Living services and applications, from energy management to healthcare and transportation, is the efficacy of human action recognition (HAR). HAR, rooted in computer vision, seeks to identify human actions and activities using visual data and various sensor modalities. This paper extensively reviews the literature on HAR in Smart Living services and applications, amalgamating key contributions and challenges while providing insights into future research directions. The review delves into the essential aspects of Smart Living, the state of the art in HAR, and the potential societal implications of this technology. Moreover, the paper meticulously examines the primary application sectors in Smart Living that stand to gain from HAR, such as smart homes, smart healthcare, and smart cities. By underscoring the significance of the four dimensions of Context Awareness, Data Availability, Personalization, and Privacy in HAR, this paper serves as a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners striving to advance Smart Living services and applications.
Two Wire Power Line Microwave Communication Using Low-Loss Modes
Authors: Olsen Robert G.
Published: June 2023

A closed form solution for the common and differential modal currents induced on a pair of infinitely long parallel conductors by a voltage source was derived. For lossy conductors the current consists of a continuous spectrum of radiation modes and (for the common mode) a modified low loss Sommerfeld-Goubau mode and (for the differential mode) a quasi-TEM mode. This model is used to investigate the influence of a parallel conductor on microwave power line communication systems. For typical parameters, it is shown that the performance of these systems can be enhanced.
The Isokinetic Method in Female Uninjured Female Soccer Players: A Survey of Applications and Common Mismatches
Authors: Cicchella Antonio , Zhang Cheng
Published: June 2023

Isokinetic testing of the knee joint is the “gold standard” in strength assessment in sport especially in soccer, where it is part of pre-season screening to establish norms in case of injuries. There are many devices on the market that make it difficult to use of normative data. Isokinetics literature in females’ soccer players is scarce in comparison to males. Furthermore, evaluation protocols strongly differ from each other, using different ranges of speeds, movement patterns and output data. Thus, it is difficult for the researcher and the clinician to choose a correct protocol for isokinetic evaluation in female soccer players. The indexes of isokinetic performance that are widely accepted are the hamstring/quadriceps (H/Q) ratio and dominant/non-dominant (D/ND) ratio as reference. In this review are highlighted some common features of isokinetic testing in female soccer players of different levels of qualification. From this study, it emerges that, for a reliable test, 3 reps at the speed of 60°/sec in knee flexion/extension is preferable due to the high reliability and that an optimal H/Q ratio in healthy female soccer players of different level of qualification and age is 50%, while the interlimb differences (D/ND) should be below 10%.
Autophagy Inhibition via Hydroxychloroquine or 3-Methyladenine Enhances Chemotherapy-Induced Apoptosis in Neuro-blastoma and Glioblastoma
Authors: Wear Darcy , Bhagirath Eesha , Balchandar Arpana , Vegh Caleb , Pandey Siyaram
Published: June 2023

Neuroblastoma is the most common tumour in children under 1 year old, accounting for approximately 50% of infant cancer cases. Although current treatments are relatively efficacious against this cancer, associated adverse effects could be detrimental to growth and development. In contrast, glioblastoma accounts for 52% of brain tumours and has an extremely poor prognosis. Current chemotherapeutics include temozolomide, which has numerous negative side-effects and a low-effective rate. Previous studies have shown the manipulation of autophagy to be a promising method for targeting cancers, including glioblastoma. We sought to determine the effects of autophagic alterations in combination with current chemotherapies in both neuroblastoma and glioblastoma. Supplementing cisplatin or temozolomide with autophagy activator rapamycin stabilized cancer cell mitochondria, despite having little effect on apoptosis or oxidative stress. Autophagy inhibition via 3-methyladenine or hydroxychloroquine alongside standard chemotherapies enhanced apoptosis and oxidative stress, with 3-methyladenine also disrupting mitochondrial health. Importantly, combining hydroxychloroquine with 0.5 µM cisplatin or 50 µg/mL temozolomide was as or more effective than 2 µM cisplatin or 100 µg/mL temozolomide alone. Analyzing these interesting results, a combined treatment of autophagy inhibitor with a standard chemotherapeutic agent could help to improve patient prognosis and reduce chemotherapy doses and their associated side-effects.
Unleashing the Ligno-Hemicellulolytic Enzyme Potential of Pyrenophora phaeocomes S-1: A Solid State Fermentation Approach for Efficient Delignification of Corn Stover
Authors: Rastogi Shubhangi , Soni Raman , Sharma Apurav , Soni Sanjeev Kumar
Published: June 2023

Biological pretreatment of lignocellulosic residues has the potential to serve as a sustainable, less energy-intensive alternative to harsh chemical treatments for enhancing cellulose accessibility, despite the requirement of a lengthy incubation period. The study characterized the simultaneous delignification of corn stover by the white-rot fungus Pyrenophora phaeocomes S-1, as well as the co-production of a ligno-hemicellulolytic enzyme cocktail consisting of laccase, xylanase, and mannanase. The maximum yields of all three components of the cocktail were achieved after just 4 days of incubation under solid-state conditions. Following a 40-day fermentation period, we achieved a cellulose recovery of 44.25 ± 1.72%, attributed to the activities of 133.88 U/gds of laccase, 14.93 U/gds of xylanase, and 1.34 U/gds of mannanase co-produced by the fungus in the medium. Subsequently, through the extraction of biologically treated biomass with 0.5N NaOH after 40 days, the cellulose recovery increased to 66.4 ± 1.39%. Enzymatic hydrolysis of the same, employing only 5 FPU/gds of in-house produced cellulases, resulted in the liberation of 397.84 mg/gds of total reducing sugars after 144h. The findings of this study encourage further optimization of biological pretreatment of lignocellulosic residues and enzymatic hydrolysis to enhance the yields of total reducing sugars for their valorization.
A Study of Greek Graviera Cheese by NMR-Based Metabolomics
Authors: Spyros Apostolos , Ralli Evangelia
Published: June 2023

Graviera is a very popular yellow hard cheese produced in mainland Greece and the Aegean islands, and in three PDO (Protected Denomination of Origin) locations. Apart from geographic location, milk type and production practices are also factors that affect cheese composition, and make this dairy product unique in taste and aroma. In this work, 1H NMR spectroscopy in combination with chemometrics has been used to determine the metabolite profile (40 compounds) of graviera cheese produced in different geographic locations, with emphasis on cheeses produced on the island of Crete. Organic acids and amino acids were the main components quantified in the polar cheese fraction, while the fatty acid composition of the lipid fraction was also obtained. Analysis of Variance (Anova) of the dataset showed that γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), conjugated linoleic acids (CLA) and linoleic acid differentiate gravieras produced in different areas of Crete, and that total amino acid content was higher in cheeses produced in eastern Crete. Targeted Discriminant Analysis models classified gravieras produced in mainland Greece, Cyclades and Crete based on differences in 1,2-diglycerides, sterols, GABA and fatty acid composition. Targeted and untargeted OPLS-DA models were capable of differentiating between gravieras produced in the island of Crete and hold promise as the basis for the authentication of PDO graviera products.
Sustainability Of Graduate Employability in Post Pandemic Covid-19: An Initiatives by Malaysia Ministry of Higher Education and University
Authors: Bikar Soon Singh , Talin Rosy , Rathakrishnan¹ Balan , Sharif Sabariah , Rabe Zulfhikar
Published: June 2023

The Covid-19 pandemic that hit the world in early 2020 has had a major impact on social and economic life in every country, including Malaysia. Many socio-economic activities have been disrupted globally, leading to the closure of companies and the suspension of work activities, which have drastically increased the unemployment rate and narrowed employment opportunities. This study uses a qualitative method to explore the initiatives taken by Malaysia Ministry of Higher Education and university in improving the sustainability graduates’ employability at the post pandemic Covid-19 phase. The total sample of the study involved is ten officers who are experienced and responsible in organizing initiatives for university graduates’ employability programs and ten participant students who attended the programme were purposively selected. The study showed that Short -term training & placement programmes (MyStep), Career Advancement Programmes (Penjana CAP), Professional certification programmes (Penjana PACE), Career Advancement Programmes at State (Penjana KPT CAP@ State) were the major initiatives taken by Malaysia Ministry of Higher Education in improving graduate employability at the post Covid-19 phase. The findings also revealed upskilling and reskilling, gig economy, entrepreneur, finishing school programmes and online career fair were the important initiatives taken by university in improving graduate employability rate at the post Covid-19 phase. Interviews with student respondents showed that the initiative taken by the government and university to increase the marketability of graduates in the post-covid-19 era has given them the opportunity to learn and improve new skills that are very necessary to get new job opportunities in the post-covid 19 eras. The main contribution of this study is that upskilling and reskilling programs are essential to improve the sustainability of graduates’ employability in the post-covid 19 era.
Functional Considerations in Bilateral, Simultaneous Tendon Injuries of the Upper Extremity
Authors: Bartlett Lucas E. , Klein Brandon J. , Daley Alton , Goodwillie Andrew , Cohn Randy M.
Published: June 2023

» Bilateral, simultaneous same-tendon injuries of the upper extremity are rarely encountered, yet their unique complexity poses a substantial challenge for treating orthopaedic surgeons.

» In general, extremities with more tendon retraction should be repaired acutely while contralateral injuries can be treated in a staged or simultaneous manner depending on injury morphology, location, and anticipated functional impairment.

» Combinations of accelerated and conventional rehabilitation protocols can be used for individual extremities to minimize the length of functional impairment.
‘Nothing for us without us’: Exclusion of students with disabilities in disability policy review at a South African institution of higher education
Authors: Ndlovu Sibonokuhle , Woldegiorgis Emnet  Tadesse
Published: June 2023

The prominent disability rights slogan ‘nothing for us without us’ which was adopted from the 16th-century Polish revolution ‘nihil de nobis, sine nobis’, means that persons with disabilities, should be involved in anything that concerns their welfare so that they speak for themselves as people with a lived experience of disabilities. This empirical paper explores the participation of students with disabilities in the review of an institutional disability policy in a single institution of higher education in South Africa. Qualitative data were collected through interviews with twelve students with disabilities and seven disability unit staff members. Informed by critical disability theory, the finding was that there was limited participation by students with disabilities in the formulation of institutional disability policy meant for their welfare. While contemporary scholarship on disability seeks to address the exclusion of historically disadvantaged social groups such as those with disabilities but without privileging the voice of those with a lived experience of disability in policy issues, the ‘nothing for us without us’ slogan will remain elusive, fragile and cliché merely chanted. The paper thus aims to contribute to the understanding that limited participation in policy formulation could negatively affect the learning of students with disabilities and consequently their timeous graduation. For genuine inclusion, all students, including those with disabilities will fully participate in higher learning.
Physiological response of Bidens pilosa to cadmium stress by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Yu Shunhui , Deng Xiaodong , Wang Baihui , Liu Dianying , Huang Xiushan , Zhao Bin , He Bin , Sheng Li , Rao Tongde
Published: June 2023

In order to explore the tolerance mechanism of Bidens pilosa L. to cadmium (Cd), the physiological response and Cd accumulation characteristics of plants were studied after poisoning plants with Cd. The main results were as follows: B. pilosa seedlings were not damaged after Cd poisoning. The characteristic peak intensity of leaves was higher at high Cd concentration than at medium-low Cd concentration. The intensity of characteristic peaks of stems and roots was close to or higher than that of the control group. Cd accumulation in roots was significantly lower than that in shoots after Cd treatment. Cd accumulated in leaves, but was least distributed in chloroplasts and mitochondria, and mainly in cell walls. Therefore, B. pilosa has good endurance ability against Cd-contaminated soil and has good application potential in resolving Cd-polluted soil. The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) method is more representative than conventional methods in identifying the treatment effect of heavy metals in terrestrial plants, which provides strong evidence for the development of phytoremediation technology.
Macrophage is vital for C5b-9-induced cyst formation and enlargement in Pkd1 -/- mice
Authors: Yang Yang , Wang Chao , Lv Jiayi , Song Minghui , Chen Meihan , Zhou Jie , Ma Lu , Mei Changlin
Published: June 2023

C5b-9 complex, the final product of complement, is overproduced during cystogenesis in the kidneys of rapid-onset mice with Pkd1 gene deficiency at postnatal day (PD)10. Compared with rapid-onset polycystic kidney disease (PKD) model, cyst enlargement is much less progressive in mice when Pkd1 gene inactivation at PD30 (chronic-onset model); however, C5b-9 infusion significantly accelerated ADPKD progression in this model. These histological data provide evidence that C5b-9 triggers renal cell apoptosis in the middle stage (PD180) and promotes cell proliferation in the late stage (PD240) in PKD mice. However, in vitro C5b-9 neither stimulated renal tubular epithelial cell (RTEC) apoptosis nor promoted RTEC proliferation, indicating that the C5b-9 indirectly affects RTECs. Furthermore, our results demonstrate that the impact of C5b-9 on cyst enlargement is significantly weakened when macrophages are depleted with liposomal clodronate (LC), suggesting that macrophages play a key role in the development of ADPKD. Moreover, C5b-9 drives bone-marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) to highly express TNF-α in vitro, resulting in increased cell apoptosis and contributing to cystogenesis. Additionally, the macrophages underwent M1-to-M2 transition and secreted high levels of IL-10, when cocultured with RTECs. IL-10, an M2-specific cytokine marker, remarkably stimulated RTEC proliferation. After LC-induced macrophage depletion, infusion of C5b-9-activated BMDMs significantly increased cystic phenotype in mice, proving that macrophages are vital for C5b-9-induced ADPKD.
Causes, Failure Mechanisms and Susceptibility Zonation of Landslides along Gedo-Dilb Road Corridor, Northern Ethiopian
Authors: Wendim Solomon , Woldearegay Kifle , Mebrahtu Gebreselassie
Published: June 2023

The hilly and mountainous areas of the highlands and rift escarpments of Ethiopia are frequently affected by first time as well as reactivated landslides of different types and sizes. One of the areas affected by such hazards, a focus of this study, is the Gedo-Dilb Asphalt road and its corridor in northern Ethiopia. The objective of this research was to evaluate the characteristics and influencing factors of landslides, determine the stability conditions of critical slope sections, produce susceptibility map of the road corridor for development planning and recommend mitigation measures. The research involved: (a) detailed inventory and characterization of landslides and associated ground failures, (b) field and laboratory investigation of the engineering properties of soils and rocks, (c) slope stability analysis of selected slope sections, (d) evaluations of the various possible causative factors, defining the most influential parameters and producing landslide susceptibility map of the road corridor, and (e) recommend appropriate mitigation measures. Results of this study show that the area is affected by 103 active landslides covering an area of 8.44 km2. In steep slopes, rock-falls are common. The debris/earth slides facilitated by gully erosion have depths which range from 0.8m to 12m. Out of the a total 16Km asphalt road length, 9.5Km road section was found to be affected by various interrelated hazards including landslides, siltation of road hydraulic structures, and erosion/scouring. Based on the comprehensive field and laboratory investigations as well as slope stability analysis the causes of landslides in the study area include: (a) preconditions: lithology, slope angle, slope shape; (b) preparatory: land use/land cover, gully erosion, road excavations; and (c) triggering: rainfall. Analytical hierarchy process (AHP) approach was used to develop landslide susceptibility map and the model was validated using area under curve (AUC). The AUC value was found to be 0.82, indicating very good prediction of landslide susceptibility: 75% of the inventoried landslides fall in the high and very high susceptibility zones. This study has revealed that landslides in the area are associated with several interrelated factors which require integrated solutions including gully rehabilitation/stabilization, drainage based water management (surface and sub-surface water), and bio-engineering solutions for slope stabilization.
Education on plagiarism in Chinese-L1 textbooks on academic writing published in China
Authors: Li Yongyan , Chen Qianshan , Ge Meng , Wang Simon , Flowerdew John
Published: June 2023

Teachers in Anglophone universities have often attributed Chinese ESL students’ plagiarism to “cultural difference”, the implication being that what is considered plagiarism in the English-speaking world may not be seen as plagiarism in China. We believe this assumption needs to be questioned on the basis of systematic evidence gathered from the local L1 (first language) context; a large collection of writing textbooks published over time is potentially a valuable dataset for starting to look for such evidence. By analysing the relevant content in a collection of 60 textbooks on Chinese-L1 (Chinese as the First Language) academic writing, our study aimed to answer this question: According to these textbooks, what is plagiarism and how can one avoid plagiarism? Data-driven content analysis revealed that despite alignment with the Anglophone world in defining what is plagiarism, their approach to dealing with it differs. The Chinese textbooks focus on large-scale copying in conceptualising plagiarism, with explanation of plagiarism at local or sentence and paragraph levels, bypassed; and for ways to avoid plagiarism, self-discipline and the formalities of source acknowledgement are emphasised, but textual strategies of proper source citation are hardly addressed. We point out that such gaps in the textbooks, and accordingly, in the Chinese education system, are partly responsible for Chinese students’ confusion in the proper practices of source use in academic writing. We end the paper by proposing avenues for future research for further understanding the issue of plagiarism in the local L1 environment and for interrogating the debatable “cultural difference” view of plagiarism.
Diagnostische Potentiale von Lernaufgaben im Sachunterricht fach- und entwicklungsbezogen analysieren und nutzbar machen
Authors: Schroeder Rene , Franzen Katja , Reh Anne
Published: June 2023

Der Sachunterricht wird als ein besonders inklusionsförderliches Unterrichtsfach der Grundschule angesehen. Um gute Lernaufgaben für alle Schüler*innen zu realisieren, bedarf es dabei einer hohen diagnostischen Kompetenz der Lehrkräfte. Gute Lernaufgaben zeichnen sich durch eine Übereinstimmung zwischen Aufgabenanspruch und Lernvoraussetzungen der Schüler*innen im Sinne einer maximalen Adaptivität aus. Von ihnen können daher möglichst alle Lernenden profitieren. Anschließend an eine detaillierte Auseinandersetzung mit guten Lernaufgaben im Sachunterricht sowie mit der professionellen Herausforderung der Adaptivität steht in diesem Beitrag die Darstellung eines Analysetools im Fokus, das Lehrkräfte bei der Beschreibung und Reflexion von fach- und entwicklungsbezogenen Lernprozessen und -aufgaben im Sachunterricht unterstützen und ihnen dadurch die Wahrnehmung von Barrieren und Potentialen möglicher Lernaufgaben erleichtern soll.
 
Abstract
Primary science is considered to be a subject that is particularly conducive to inclusion. In order to realise good learning tasks for all pupils, teachers need a high level of diagnostic competence. Good learning tasks are characterized by a match between task demands and pupils’ learning requirements in the sense of maximum adaptivity. Therefore, all learners can benefit from them as much as possible. Following a detailed discussion of good learning tasks in primary science and the professional challenge of adaptivity, this article focuses on the presentation of an analytical tool that supports teachers in describing and reflecting on subject- and development-related learning processes and tasks in primary science and thus facilitates their perception of barriers and potentials of possible learning tasks.
Evidence of the validity of the fairness character scale for adolescence: A Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) technique
Authors: Mahfud Ashari , Wibowo Mungin Eddy , Mulawarman Mulawarman , Japar Muhammad
Published: June 2023

The characteristic of fairness is a virtuous one that adolescents should possess as capital to interact with their social environment. However, no validity of evidence supports the score interpretation of a fairness character scale. The purpose of this study is to obtain evidence for the validity of the scale for adolescents. The research data were collected from 532 adolescents in Indonesia, ranging in age between 14 and 18 years. Scale development covers all stages of the process by assessing the required validity and reliability of evidence. Based on the ratings obtained from the scale, exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis were performed to identify the internal structure of the validity evidence. The results of the factor analysis found that the scale consisted of four factors, namely "exploitation", "appreciation", "social role", and "open behaviour". Cronbach alpha's internal consistency value was calculated to be .84. After completing all stages of the scale development, 20 items related to the characteristic of fairness were obtained. Therefore, the scale can be used by positive psychology developers to measure and identify the development of fairness in adolescents in Indonesia. The scale will complement the previously developed character strength measurement tools.
The public perceptions of urban sanitation infrastructure: a cross-sectional study in Kegalle township in Sri Lanka
Authors: Bellanthudawa B.K.A. , Udayanga Samitha , Rajapaksha Poornima , Nawalage Nawala Mudiyanselaya Semini Kushara , Senanayake Rajitha , Meegalla Senani , Jayasuriya Jayasuriya Mudiyanselage Saumya Niroshani , Kumara K.D.K.S.
Published: June 2023

Improving public restroom facilities in urban areas can contribute to ensuring the overall living standards of the urban populace. Access to improved sanitation and hygiene is also considered a fundamental human right. Therefore, the present study aims to understand public perceptions of urban public restroom use based on a case study conducted in the municipality of Kegalle township in Sri Lanka. This included a questionnaire survey (N = 115) and in-depth interviews (N = 5). The analysis indicates the urgent need for adequate, accessible, and good-quality sanitary services, particularly in densely populated urban areas of the country. More than 70% of people (from N = 115) indicate that public restrooms are not of good quality due to certain reasons such as poor maintenance and uncleanliness. Despite the insalubrity of public restrooms, many respondents have used them, indicating an urgent policy intervention in operating, and properly maintaining public restrooms in densely populated urban areas of the country. A significant number of respondents indicated that the quality of public restrooms is extremely poor (39%) or poor (31.1%). Around 86.9% of respondents are not satisfied with existing public restrooms, thus, 71.4% believe in reconstructing new public restrooms that pave the way for ensuring access, affordability, quality, and safety.
Comparação entre os Modelos Digitais de Terreno gerados por Radar em Banda P e LiDAR na Amazônia, um estudo de caso no Amapá (Brasil).
Authors: Tanajura Caldeira Carlos Rodrigo , Polidori Laurent , El Hage Mhamad , Cobacho Ortega Caldeira Mayara , Bastos Gorgens Eric , Pierre Henry Balbaud Ometto Jean
Published: June 2023

O Modelo Digital de Terreno (MDT) é um importante produto usado em geociências, mas sua extração em áreas florestais densas ainda é um desafio. Uma das grandes dificuldades na extração de um MDT via sensores remotos é em áreas florestais densas, pois nestas áreas as informações geradas ficam degradadas, já que as técnicas mais utilizadas só conseguem medir a elevação do dossel e não do terreno, limitando a cartografia em áreas como a Amazônia. A técnica mais adequada para extração de um MDT é o LiDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) aerotransportado, porém há limitações de prazo e custo para grandes áreas. As ondas de radar de Banda P têm uma grande capacidade de penetração através da vegetação densa, tornando-a uma ferramenta promissora para modelagem digital do terreno em áreas florestais. Essa técnica foi usada para a última atualização da cartografia do estado do Amapá (Brasil). Este artigo tem como objetivo avaliar a qualidade geral de um MDT produzido usando interferometria radar de Banda P aerotransportado em relação a dados LiDAR (usados como referência) em 4 regiões do estado do Amapá, utilizando vários critérios. Além da comparação visual que confirma a semelhança geral dos dois produtos, foi avaliada a diferença em termos de elevação e declividade, com um erro médio em sua elevação de -0,52 m, enquanto possui um desvio padrão e RMSE médio abaixo de 3 metros, com uma diferença na declividade de aproximadamente -4° e um desvio padrão e RMSE médio de 4,74° e 6,14°, respectivamente. Este estudo fornece uma estimativa da precisão do MDT radar de Banda P, tanto em termos de elevação quanto de declividade, que são variáveis essenciais para caracterizar as formas do relevo.
Aspects of skin morphology and morphometry of the giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla, LINNAEUS, 1758)
Authors: Silva Daniel Barbosa da , Cardoso Júlio Roquete , Cruz Vanessa de Sousa , Santos Fabrício Carrião dos , Moreira Paulo César , Pereira Kleber Fernando , Araújo Eugênio Gonçalves de
Published: June 2023

The aim of the present study is to describe the skin morphology and morphometry of the giant anteater (M. tridactyla), based on comparative analysis applied to skin segments from central metacarpal torus (palmar pad), dorsal thorax, ventral cervical, ventral abdomen, medial carpal and nasal regions. In order to do so, eight adult specimens of M. tridactyla were used for macroscopic studies and four for microscopic assessments. Microscopy was used to assess fur general features that were macroscopically assessed through visual analysis. Fragments (2.0cm²) were collected from the selected regions for microscopic studies. Samples were fixed on McDowell solution, processed through routine histology techniques and subjected to semi-serial cuts (5 μm). The cuts were stained in HE, Alcian blue and periodic acid Schiff. General morphology of different skin layers was described, as well as their architecture and composition; mesoscopy of the epidermis, dermis and stratum corneum was also carried out. There was difference in skin morphometry between males and females, and between different skin regions in the same animal, based on the statistical evaluation of the recorded values. All epidermis layers were assessed for the selected regions. Dermis encompassed surface and deep layers; it presented sweat and sebaceous glands, as well as hair follicles. Findings also allowed reporting that epidermis components are easily identified given its thickness, and the large amount of sweat glands in it – it contrasts its physiological features.
An Insight into the Correlation between Phenolic Content and In vitro Antioxidant
Activity of Calocybe Indica Extracts
Authors: Le Trung Hieu , Nguyen Thi Hong Chuong , Nguyen Quang Man , Le Lam Son , Tran Thi Van Thi , Nguyen Dang Giang Chau , Nguyen Minh Nhung , Ho Xuan Anh Vu , Nguyen Viet Thang , Nguyen Chinh Chien , Le Quyet Van
Published: June 2023

Calocybe indica has been considered an essential herb, exhibiting a strong antioxidant capability.
To this point, the phenolic compounds could be the primary constituent inducing such high
activity. However, the phenolic-antioxidant activity correlation still needs to be understood. This
study attempted to shed light on the direct linkage between phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity
of the Vietnam-grown Calocybe indica for the first time. It turns out that the total amount of phenolic
content is 97.67 μg/g, which is exceptionally high in the methanol extract. Gallic acid, quercetin, quercitrin,
and hesperidin account for 49.02 ± 0.18 μg/g, 15.36 ± 0.24, 18.71 ± 0.32, and 14.58 ± 0.28 μg/g of such
activity, respectively. Such antioxidants result in an extraordinary performance in DPPH and ABTS evaluations.
Indeed, the total antioxidant capacity ranges from 59.67±0.78 to 91.26±1.57 mg GA/g or from
75.25±0.32 to 88.17±0.64 μmol AS/g, corresponding to the contents of phenolics from 24.92 ±0.24 to
35.28 ± 0.33 mg GAE/g. Furthermore, flavonoid compounds have been quantified to range from
14.63 ± 0.17 to 23.88 ± 0.10 mg QUE/g. These results imply the prominence of Calocybe indica for
biomedical applications.
Nutritional value of grain and leafy Amaranth varieties grown in Tanzania
Authors: Nicodemas D. , Rwabona G. E.
Published: June 2023

Amaranth leaves and seeds are highly nutritious, but less is clearly known for the varieties grown in Tanzania. Grains, leaves (dry and fresh) and flower part of amaranth were analyzed for minerals (iron, zinc, copper and manganese), proximate (crude protein, crude fat, crude fibre and carbohydrate) and anti-nutrients (nitrate and oxalate) content. Minerals were significantly higher (p<0.05) in fresh leafy varieties performing 75.89 mg/100 g, 3.284 mg/100 g and 34.869 mg/100 g for Amaranthus hypochondriacus (Nafaka), A. hypochondriacus (Lishe njano) and A. dubius (White local) respectively, with iron being significantly higher in dried leaves (284.384 mg/1000 g) of A. dubius (Bwasi jekundu). Protein, Fat and Fibre content is significantly higher in grains of amaranths indicating Crude protein (15.787%) in A. cruentus (Bwasi kijani), Crude Fibre (13.040% and 13.163%) in White local and Bwasi jekundu respectively that are not significantly different (p>0.05) and Crude Fat (9.273%) in Bwasi jekundu. Total Carbohydrate (78.743%) is significantly higher in dried Bwasi kijani. Anti-nutrient contents were significantly higher in dried compared to fresh leaf varieties, grain and amaranth flowers. Oxalate ranging from 378.5 to 360.3 mg/100 g and are not significantly different (p>0.05) within varieties, nitrate (137.06 μg/g) is significantly higher in A. hybridus (Lishe nyeupe) of dried leaves compared to fresh, grains and amaranth flower. Bwasi jekundu appears to be the best variety as dried leaves have the highest iron, since micronutrients are of more significance in leaves of vegetables than macro nutrients.
What is the impact of artificial intelligence-based chatbots on Infodemic management? (Preprint)
Authors: Morita Plinio P. , Lotto Matheus , Kaur Jasleen , Chumachenko Dmytro , Oetomo Arlene , Espiritu Kristopher Dylan , Zakir Hussain Irfhana
Published: June 2023

UNSTRUCTURED

Artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots have the potential to revolutionize online health information-seeking behavior by delivering up-to-date information on a wide range of health topics. They generate personalized responses to user queries through their ability to process extensive amounts of text, analyze trends, and generate natural language responses. Chatbots can manage infodemic by debunking online health misinformation on a large scale. Nevertheless, system accuracy remains technically challenging. Chatbots require training on diverse and representative datasets, security to protect against malicious actors, and updates to keep up-to-date on scientific progress. Therefore, although AI chatbots hold significant potential in assisting infodemic management, it is essential to approach their outputs with caution due to their current limitations.
Tourism Brand and Strategy for Sustainable Tourism Development of Bongabon, Nueva Ecija
Authors: O. Saclolo Rowie Grace
Published: June 2023

This study identified problems encountered in tourism sustainability in Bongabon, Nueva Ecija. This covered the areas of economic, environmental and tourism managements aspects. Business’ years of operation and services offered in tourist spots were also identified in this study. This research study used a descriptive research design, and a structured interview is used as data collection tool. Participants of the study were 5 selected owners or member of association in different tourist spots in Bongabon, Nueva Ecija. Based on the research study, tourism management aspect has the highest percentage of problems encountered, this includes the factors of crowd management and LGU and owner’s participation; environmental aspect has the second highest percentage of problems encountered, this area includes nature deterioration and preservation, pollution, and construction of tourism facilities and infrastructure development; and economic aspect has the least percentage of problems encountered which includes the factors of livelihood, income and employment. Environmental Aspect is an element of an organization's activities, products or services that can interact with the environment. There are two types of environmental aspects: (i) Direct Environmental Aspect Activities over which a company can be expected to have an influence and control. For example, emissions from processes. (ii) Indirect Environmental Aspect Actual or Potential activities over which the organization can be expected to have an influence, but no control. The economic aspect refers to the importance of social responsibility, broad consideration of society and businesses, contribution to public interest, and corporate voluntary participation.
La Apología pro Galileo de Tommaso Campanella, que se convierte en defensa de la hermenéutica
Authors: Gutiérrez Mueller Beatriz
Published: June 2023

Concerning the heliocentric system defense written by Tommaso Campanella, this paper connects the apology for Galileo with the hermeneutic intention the Dominican proposes, i.e., as a literal non-interpretative biblical reading, it may prevent a scientific proposal from being accepted or rejected. By showing, based on the Sacred Writings, that no scientific proposal should be rejected at all, the Italian is ahead of its time when the highest ecclesiastical authorities admitted that the Sacred Book can be studied not only by bishops or scholars, but also by every specialist contributing with a novel and critical study of its content.
Development and Validation of UV-Vis Spectrophotometric Method for Estimation of Amphotericin B from Hydrogel Nanoparticle
Authors: Vishwakarma Sudha
Published: June 2023

Abstract: Amphotericin B (AmB) is a polyene macrolide antibiotic that has antifungal action against the broadest range of fungal diseases as well as in some protozoan infections. There are currently no significant issues with resistance to AmB, and it is still in use today. The development of many innovative AmB formulations as lipid formulations and polymeric nanoparticles utilising UV-VIS spectrophotometry and HPLC technique has been discussed in the literature, however specifics of peak characteristics and validation data are not provided. The goal of this study was to provide an effective approach for validating AmB and to gather reliable, accurate, and consistent data on linearity, detection limit, quantification limit, accuracy, and precision using a UV-VIS spectrophotometer. The method gives a good linearity with regression of y = 0.1471x + 0.0489 (R2 = 0.9989) at 408 nm. The repeatability (inter-day) and intermediate precision (intra-day) precision studies revealed that the method is precise and reliable where all the RSD values were ˂2%. Method accuracy showed % accuracy value for all the three concentration levels ranged from 91.144 % to 101.994 % that a small change in the concentration of the drug could be accurately determined with high accuracy. Limit of detection and limit of quantification were 0.0295 (μg/ml) and 0.0895 (μg/ml) respectively. The suggested approach is straightforward and may be considered a strategy that is routinely practicable for estimating AmB.
Agri Solutions
Authors: Rajput Vaibhav
Published: June 2023

Abstract: The agricultural information system provides its users and researches to get online information about, the crop, statistical details and new tendencies. The trends of the crops act so that these will be pretty important to the users who access these via the Internet. The main features of the information system includes information retrieval facilities for users from anywhere in the form of obtaining statistical information about fertilizer, land availability, diseases, suitable soil concentration for the corresponding crops, statistical information about exports and etc. In addition this provides individual information about Intercrops related to main crops. The system allows the retrieving facilities but also the updating facilities to the authorized persons. After 20 years of neglect by international donors, agriculture is now again in the headlines because higher food prices are increasing food insecurity and poverty. In the coming years it will be essential to increase food productivity and production in developing countries, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa and with smallholders. This however requires findings viable solutions to a number of complex technical, institutional and policy issues including land markets, research on seeds and inputs; agricultural extension; credit; rural infrastructure; storage; connection to markets; rural non-farm employment and food price stabilization
Eco-Friendly Food Preserviour
Authors: Gotekar Prof. Sandesh
Published: June 2023

Abstract: Chitosan (CS), an antibacterial biopolymer with the ability to form films, has been used topically to preserve foods like fruits, vegetables, and even seafood. We must look for more materials with these qualities if we are to have a variety of options for preservation. Sapindus mukorossi, often known as soap nut (SN), is a plant with similar characteristics. The main substance in soap nuts, known as saponin, is what gives them their antibacterial and film-forming properties. There are numerous reports that suggest saponin can be utilised for culinary purposes up to a point.2This study assessed the synergistic preservation effect of soap nut and chitosan aqueous solutions on fruits and vegetables. The antibacterial effects of CS, SN, and [CS+SN] are initially seen. Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli were the first microorganisms against which the antibacterial effects of CS, SN, and [CS+SN] in film form were investigated. As anticipated, the film CS+SN demonstrated greater antibacterial action, with zones of inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli of 25 mm and 23 mm, respectively. Spraying different regional fruits like lemons, bananas, tomatoes, and oranges with a known concentration of CS+SN allowed researchers to assess the substance's potential as a preservative. The control was water. Different concentrations of [CS+SN] -250ppm and 125ppm, together with CS-500ppm, SN-500ppm, and water, were compared. In comparison to control fruits, fruits sprayed with [CS+SN]-250ppm solution displayed a considerable delay in the change in weight loss, decay percentage, and pH. Additionally, it kept its visual quality better than CS, SN, and control samples.
Automatic Timetable Generator
Authors: Patil Prof. Jyothi
Published: June 2023

Abstract: The goal of this project is to create a time table generator for colleges. The creation of schedules is a very common issue that affects all educational institutions. The conflict between staff members' preferences is precisely where the issue arises. Every semester, colleges are required to create time tables, which used to be an extremely time-consuming task. Once the timetables are set for a given semester, the student is allowed to access them. Once the timetables are established for a particular semester, employees are also permitted to check the class allotment schedule.