bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From Erlenmeyer flask to microplates – lessons learned from measuring Escherichia coli growth
Authors: Abalașei Marinela , Pioară Mihaela , Mihasan Marius
Published: August 2023

Growth curve measurements are fundamental operations in microbiology and molecular biology. Microplate readers have the advantage of high-throughput and automation. This allows for real-time monitoring of many bacterial cultures and a decrease in labor and costs. The volume and geometry of a well from a microplate imply that calibration and comparative studies must be performed before switching from one cultivation and growth monitoring system to another. Here, Escherichia coli XL1 Blue was used as a reference strain in order to test the feasibility of using a common, filter-based microplate reader for recording growth curves when performing antibiotic and toxicity testing.
Tire Wear and Pollutants: An Overview of Research
Authors: Ly Alfonse , El-Sayegh Zeinab
Published: August 2023

Tire Road and Wear Particles are a major source of microplastic emissions. Tire and Road Wear Particles are important to study and understand as there are alarming amounts found in various environments. Currently, Tire and Road Wear Particles compared to other microplastics are not studied as rigorously in literature but are becoming a larger field of study due to their impact on emissions control. Tire Road and Wear Particles are commonly found as Styrene Butadiene Rubber Butadiene Rubber, and Natural Rubber To understand and quantify tire wear, experimental and mathematical models are developed to estimate tire wear. Tire wear can be measured experimentally using semi-empirical models, predetermined data, and sensor technologies. Tire wear is also measured mathematically using different modeling approaches and different friction models.  This review discusses different and popular methodologies for estimating tire wear through experimental and simulated environments. Furthermore, discusses a review of the literature regarding tire wear emissions and its impact on the environment. Finally, it is evident that an accurate simulated tire wear model can be developed in the future alongside a driver model to predict tire wear emissions.
 
Received: 6 July 2023 | Revised: 9 August 2023 | Accepted: 10 August 2023
 
Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest in this work.
Appendage of artificial intelligence in the sphere of refurbishing human capital management
Authors: Lilly A. , Rajkumar R. , Kumar J. Vinoth , Lydia J.
Published: August 2023

In today’s fast-paced ecosphere, layoffs are more frequent, and startups are emerging, which permits workforces to move more constantly. Across all spheres, Human Capital is acknowledged as the cardinal and preponderant asset, and the Human Capital Management of any organization is a crucial factor since it keeps the organization in line. So here emanates the need for Human Capital Management, where workforces are esteemed as capital by admitting their far-reaching importance in the organization. By means of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cloud-based tools, Human Capital Management (HCM) can abridge the time-to-hire, boost talent pipeline superiority, ameliorate employee experience, and elevate routes. This research paper aspires to address the conceptual backdrop of the amalgamation of Artificial Intelligence in overhauling Human Capital Management and also to puzzle out the benefits of employees by appending Artificial Intelligence in the working atmosphere.
The adoption of mobile financial services in Tanzania: The application of logit model
Authors: Mbukwa Justine N. , Lwesya Francis
Published: August 2023

The adoption of mobile technology has received much attention in recent studies in Africa. Several previous studies have assessed mobile financial service adoption using classification choice models, the assessment being primarily a test of statistical significance, but little is known about the performance of choice models, including logistic regression. Using the World Bank Demographic Health Survey (TDHS, 2015/16) dataset for Tanzania, a logistic regression model was fitted to determine the extent to which men use mobile phones for financial transactions. The results demonstrate the statistical significance of a logit model. The variables such as financial institution, region, place of residence, education level, marital status, age of head of household, literacy level and newspaper reading are better predictors of the likelihood that men will use mobile financial services. Regarding the classification models, the results show that the 8-predictor stepwise logit model fits the data well, with approximately 82.01% of the males being correctly classified. However, the results showed that the sensitivity of the model was (85.1 percent) and its specificity (77.94 percent). In terms of AIC and BIC, the reduced model is better because the statistical metrics of AIC and BIC are smaller than those of the full model. The results mean that the statistically significant filtered predictors explain well the motives for the adoption of mobile financial services. These results suggest that the logit model fits the data well, and can therefore be used to assess mobile financial service adoption and other related studies.
Inovação Educacional
Authors: Giordani Estela Maris , Begnini Karine Cecilia Finatto , Matoso Lara Gabriela
Published: August 2023

A inovação educacional é um tema recente e em estágio inicial de elaboração. Apesar de existirem pesquisas, ainda são incipientes os efetivos resultados das avaliações realizadas pelo sistema educacional. Propor mudanças em larga escala demanda compreender a complexidade do fenômeno educativo e alcançar resultados. A pesquisa desenvolvida foi de cunho qualitativo bibliográfico e trouxe as construções da NPM para subsidiar as discussões acerca dos conceitos de inovação tanto no contexto da gestão quanto da educação. Para o desenvolvimento do estudo, buscou-se discutir as contribuições da NPM, as quais no setor público implicam em melhorar os resultados, considerando o usuário o gestor e o desempenho. A partir desta visão, os estudos sobre a inovação na educação e no ensino superior indicam a necessidade de ultrapassar as perspectivas cujas lógicas estão pautadas sobre matrizes de pensamento derivadas do positivismo e propõe uma abordagem mais complexa dos fenômenos educacionais. A pesquisa indica que do ponto de vista teórico, as discussões do campo educacional compreendem a inovação a partir da perspectiva de processo e resultado, embora ainda existam desafios a serem superados do ponto de vista prático.
Interventions for Developing Positive Mental Health in Autistic Individuals (2013–2021)
Authors: Patten Kristie , Murthi Kavitha , Chen Yu-Lun , Onwumere Dora , Shore Stephen
Published: August 2023

Systematic Review Briefs provide a summary of the findings from systematic reviews developed in conjunction with the American Occupational Therapy Association’s Evidence-Based Practice Program. Each systematic review brief summarizes the evidence on a theme related to a systematic review topic. This systematic review brief presents findings to support or improve positive mental health for autistic1 individuals.
Travel Writing in Mongolia and Northern China, 1860-2020
Authors: Marzluf Phillip , Billé Franck , Humphrey Caroline
Published: August 2023

Travel Writing in Mongolia and Northern China, 1860-2020 invites readers to explore Mongolia as an important cultural space for Western travelers and their audiences over three historical eras. Travelers have framed their experiences and observations through imaginative geographies and Orientalizing discourses, fixing Mongolia as a peripheral, timeless, primitive, and parochial place. Readers can examine the travelers’ literary and rhetorical strategies as they make themselves more credible and authoritative and as they identify themselves with Mongolians and Mongolian culture or, conversely, distance themselves. In this book, readers can also approach travel writing from the perspective of women travelers, Mongolian socialist intellectuals, twenty-first-century travelers, and a Han Chinese writer, Jiang Rong, who promotes cultural harmony yet anticipates the disappearance of Mongolian culture in China.
Generative KI verändert das Marketing der FMCG-Branche
Authors: Colosio Dario , Pask Julian
Published: August 2023

Generative Künstliche Intelligenz (KI) hat das Potenzial, Marketing und Produktentwicklung in Handel und FMCG-Industrie deutlich effizienter zu machen und gleichzeitig zu beschleunigen.
Construção de protótipo para fabricação de filmes nanométricos utilizados como sensores eletroquímicos
Authors: Santos Vagner dos
Published: August 2023

O capítulo apresenta o desenvolvimento de técnicas que tem se destacado na produção de nanomateriais denominada Layer-by-Layer (LbL) que consiste na deposição por meio da adsorção de camadas de materiais carregados opostamente, policátions e poliânions, com uma lavagem entre as deposições. Isso representa não apenas uma importante facilitação de produção, em viés econômico e de utilização, em uma técnica utilizada na área da eletroquímica, mas também demonstra a capacidade de utilização dos ensinamentos obtidos durante o curso técnico para a produção científica. A produção deste trabalho foi fundada a partir da exploração de diversas áreas do conhecimento que corroboradas permitem com que seja realizado o processo e a produção científica.
The potential of grain sorghum as a component of compound feeds for broiler chickens
Authors: Erohina Anna , Bychkova Vera , Bolotova Olga , Svetlov Vladislav , Levshin Anton
Published: August 2023

The search for solutions to reduce the cost of feed while maintaining nutritional value has been an urgent task for many years. On the basis of the FSBI RosNIISK "Rossorgo", studies are being conducted to assess the possibility of replacing traditional cereal crops with alternative ones in compound feeds. We have developed experimental formulations of compound feeds for broiler chickens, with the inclusion of grain sorghum, an assessment of the nutritional value of the feed and the fractional composition of protein. The peculiarities of the biochemical composition in compound feeds depending on the botanical composition are revealed. It was determined that the most optimal combination of all nutritional characteristics, as well as high quality indicators of crude protein, were found in experimental compound feeds, which contain 35% of grain sorghum. Keywords: FEED PRODUCTION, COMPOUND FEED, GRAIN SORGHUM, CRUDE PROTEIN, FRACTIONAL COMPOSITION OF PROTEIN, LATHYRUS SATIVUS L.
MUCOSITE ORAL EM PACIENTES TRANSPLANTADOS DE MEDULA ÓSSEA
Authors: Reis Jeanderson Sobrinho dos , Santos Mara Késsia Sousa , Yamashita Ricardo Kiyoshi
Published: August 2023

O transplante de medula óssea (TMO) é uma alternativa terapêutica amplamente usada  em pacientes portadores de doenças do sistema  hematopoético, podendo melhor a qualidade de vida ou até mesmo a cura da doença. Porém tal procedimento acarreta diversas alterações orais como efeito colateral tais como : xerostomia (sensação de boca seca), alteração paladar, cáries, mucosite oral, infecção fúngica, leucoplasia pilosa, infecção herpética, alterações gengivais entre outros. O presente artigo teve como objetivo descrever por meio de revisão de literatura a complicação da mucosite oral em pacientes submetidos ao transplante de medula óssea (TMO), notando-se a extrema importância do cirurgião dentista no corpo clínico afim de tratamento, prevenção e acompanhamento de alterações.
GENERATOR:: za poljubno število
bralnih uprizoritev
Authors: Hrvatin Varja , Radi Buh Maša , Ribič Jakob
Published: August 2023

V pričujočem prispevku bomo obravnavali koncept bralnih uprizoritev. Ugotavljali bomo,
da gre v polju mlade dramske pisave za prevladujoč uprizoritveni format, ki pa ga ne
gre razumeti kot vmesno stopnjo med branjem in uprizarjanjem, temveč kot povsem
samostojen in polnokrven umetniški žanr. Mnoge bralne uprizoritve so zato opustile
funkcijo »prve informacije« o tekstu in njegovem avtorju ter namesto tega postale čisto
prava uprizoritev teksta, s čimer se je odprlo široko polje za gledališki eksperiment. To
bomo premišljevali na primeru konkretnih praks, za katere je značilno, da besedilo postane
glavno ali celo edino, kar je za gledališki dogodek potrebno, branje (na vse mogoče načine
in oblike) pa zato ključno gledališko sredstvo.
Glasbenogledališki opus Darijana Božiča v
kontekstu slovenske glasbenogledališke
scene – izmik v literarno-dramsko v opreki z
željo po institucionalnem
Authors: Pompe Gregor
Published: August 2023

Med slovenskimi skladateljskimi modernisti je glasbenemu gledališču največ pozornosti
namenil Darijan Božič. Obravnavana so njegova glasbenogledališka dela, pri čemer je že iz
žanrskih podnaslovov posameznih del razvidno, da je skladatelj ves čas iskal novo formo
za glasbenogledališko delo. Zdi se, da jo je našel v nekakšnem napol »radijskem« mediju
– nosilno težo ima po navadi govorjena beseda, ki jo v obliki zvočne opreme spremljajo
redke instrumentalne zvočne intervencije. Te skozi čas izgubljajo modernistično ostrino
(harmonski grozdi) in se s sopostavljanjem raznolikega približujejo postmodernizmu. Tako
se za Božičeva dela kot značilna izkaže dvojna neuravnoteženost – beseda močno prevlada nad glasbo, hkrati pa se zdi nenavadna skladateljeva želja, da avantgardne gledališke
postopke skuša uresničiti v institucionalnem opernem gledališču.
Dekonstrukcije nasprotja med
reprezentacijo in prezentacijo od
neoavantgarde do pomilenija: od Pupilije,
Jesiha in Jovanovića do Zupančiča,
Živadinova, Frljića, Semenič in Divjaka
Authors: Toporišič Tomaž
Published: August 2023

Razprava se ukvarja z izbranimi primeri dekonstrukcij nasprotja med reprezentacijo in
prezentacijo, značilnimi za postmimetično, od neoavantgarde do postmilenija. Sledi
avtorjem, ki od šestdesetih let prejšnjega stoletja do danes dekonstruirajo dramsko ter
izumljajo nove oblike redramatizacij in postdramskega medmedijskega prepleta. Avtorji,
kot so Peter Handke v Zmerjanju občinstva, skupina Pupilija Ferkeverk v Pupilija, papa
Pupilo pa Pupilčki, Dušan Jovanović v Spomeniku G in Igrajte tumor v glavi, Milan Jesih
v Limitah in Grenkih sadežih pravice, Matjaž Zupančič v Hodniku in drugih igrah, Dragan
Živadinov in njegove ekipe v Obredih poslavljanja, Oliver Frljić v Preklet naj bo izdajalec svoje domovine!, Simona Semenič v 1981 ter Žiga Divjak in Katarina Morano v različnih projektih – čeprav vztrajno ustvarjajo motnje v fikcijskem besedilnem kozmosu – v gledaliških tekstih in predstavah - performansih vzpostavljajo močan proces redramatizacije, intenzivnih zapletov in razpletov. Kot da bi hkrati z dekonstrukcijo dramskega vbrizgali v postdramski proces uprizarjanja in pisave dramsko in dramatično. Postmimetično tako soobstaja s predmimetičnim, »slečenje« reprezentacije drame privede do vzpostavljanja fikcije.
Quantifying the migration rate of drainage divides from high-resolution topographic data
Authors: Zhou Chao , Tan Xibin , Liu Yiduo , Shi Feng
Published: August 2023

Abstract. The lateral movement of drainage divides is co-influenced by tectonics, lithology, and climate, and therefore archives a wealth of geologic and climatic information. Several methods have been proposed to determine the direction of drainage-divide migration. However, how to quantify the migration rate of drainage divides remains challenging. Here, we propose a new approach to calculate the migration rate of drainage divides from high-resolution topographic data. The new method is based on the cross-divide comparison of channel-head parameters, including the critical upstream drainage area and the gradient of channel head, both of which are used to calculate the normalized channel steepness at the channel head. We then apply the new method to an active rift shoulder (Wutai Shan), and a tectonically stable area (a mountain range in the Loess Plateau) in North China, to illustrate the calculation of drainage-divide migration rates. The northward migration rates at the Wutai Shan range from 0.10 to 0.13 mm/yr. The migration rates are approximately zero at the mountain range in the Loess Plateau. This study demonstrates that the migration rate of drainage divides can be determined more accurately once the cross-divide differences in uplift rate are taken into account.
Assessing Atmospheric Gravity Wave Spectra in the Presence of Observational Gaps
Authors: Mossad Mohamed , Strelnikova Irina , Wing Robin , Baumgarten Gerd
Published: August 2023

Abstract. We present a thorough investigation into the accuracy and reliability of gravity wave (GW) spectral estimation methods when dealing with observational gaps. GWs have a significant impact on atmospheric dynamics, exerting influence over weather and climate patterns. However, empirical atmospheric measurements often suffer from data gaps caused by various factors, leading to biased estimations of the spectral power-law exponent (β). This exponent describes how the energy of GWs changes with frequency over a defined range of GW scales. In this study, we meticulously evaluate three commonly employed estimation methods: the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT), Generalised Lomb-Scargle periodogram (GLS), and Haar Structure Function (HSF). We assess their performance using time series of synthetic observational data with varying levels of complexity, ranging from a single sinusoid to superposed sinusoids with randomly distributed wave parameters. By providing a comprehensive analysis of the advantages and limitations of these methods, our aim is to provide a valuable roadmap for selecting the most suitable approach for accurate estimations of β from sparse observational datasets.
Global urban fractional changes at a 1 km resolution throughout 2100 under eight scenarios of Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs) and Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs)
Authors: He Wanru , Li Xuecao , Zhou Yuyu , Shi Zitong , Yu Guojiang , Hu Tengyun , Wang Yixuan , Huang Jianxi , Bai Tiecheng , Sun Zhongchang , Liu Xiaoping , Gong Peng
Published: August 2023

Abstract. The information of global spatially explicit urban extents under scenarios is important to mitigate future environmental risks caused by global
urbanization and climate change. Although future dynamics of urban extent were commonly modeled with conversion from non-urban to urban extent using
cellular-automata (CA)-based models, gradual changes of impervious surface area (ISA) at the pixel level were limitedly explored in previous
studies. In this paper, we developed a global dataset of urban fractional changes at a 1 km resolution from 2020 to 2100 (5-year interval),
under eight scenarios of socioeconomic pathways and climate change. First, to quantify the gradual change of ISA within the pixel, we characterized
ISA growth patterns over the past decades (i.e., 1985–2015) using a sigmoid growth model and annual global artificial impervious area (GAIA)
data. Then, by incorporating the ISA-based growth mechanism with the CA model, we calibrated the state-specific urban CA model with quantitative
evaluation at the global scale. Finally, we projected future urban fractional changes at 1 km resolution under eight development pathways
based on the harmonized urban growth demand from Land Use Harmonization2 (LUH2). The evaluation results show that the ISA-based urban CA model
performs well globally, with an overall R2 of 0.9 and a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.08 between modeled and observed ISAs in 2015. With
the inclusion of temporal contexts of urban sprawl gained from GAIA, the dataset of global urban fractional change shows good agreement with 30-year
historical observations from satellites. The dataset can capture spatially explicit variations of ISA and gradual ISA change within pixels. The
dataset of global urban fractional change is of great use in supporting quantitative analysis of urbanization-induced ecological and environmental
change at a fine scale, such as urban heat islands, energy consumption, and human–nature interactions in the urban system. The developed dataset of
global urban fractional change is available at https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.20391117.v4 (He et al., 2022).
On optimization of calibrations of a distributed hydrological model with spatially distributed information on snow
Authors: Tiwari Dipti , Trudel Mélanie , Leconte Robert
Published: August 2023

Abstract. In northern cold-temperate countries, a large portion of annual streamflow is produced by spring snowmelt, which often triggers floods. It is important to have spatial information about snow parameters such as snow water equivalent (SWE), which can be incorporated into hydrological models, making them more efficient tools for improved decision-making. The future Terrestrial Snow Mass Mission (TSMM) aims to provide high-resolution spatially distributed SWE information; thus, spatial SWE calibration should be considered along with conventional streamflow calibration for model optimization since the overall water balance is often a key objective in the hydrological modelling. The present research implements a unique spatial pattern metric in a multi-objective framework for calibration approach of hydrological models and attempts to determine whether raw SNODAS data can be utilized for hydrological model calibration. The SPAtial Efficiency (SPAEF) metric is explored for spatially calibrating SWE. The HYDROTEL hydrological model is applied to the Au Saumon River Watershed (∽1120 km2) in Eastern Canada using MSWEP precipitation data and ERA-5 land reanalysis temperature data as input to generate high-resolution SWE and streamflow. Different calibration experiments are performed combining Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) for streamflow and root-mean-square error (RMSE), and SPAEF for SWE, using the Dynamically Dimensioned Search (DDS) and Pareto Archived Multi-Objective Optimization (PADDS) algorithms. Results of the study demonstrate that multi-objective calibration outperforms sequential calibration in terms of model performance. Traditional model calibration involving only streamflow produced slightly higher NSE values; however, the spatial distribution of SWE could not be adequately maintained. This study indicates that utilizing SPAEF for spatial calibration of snow parameters improved streamflow prediction compared to the conventional practice of using RMSE for calibration. SPAEF is further implied to be a more effective metric than RMSE for both sequential and multi-objective calibration. During validation, the calibration experiment incorporating multi-objective SPAEF exhibits enhanced performance in terms of NSE and Kling-Gupta Efficiency (KGE) compared to calibration experiment solely based on NSE. This observation supports the notion that incorporating SPAEF computed on raw SNODAS data within the calibration framework results in a more robust hydrological model.
Baltic Sea Surface Temperature Analysis 2022: A Study of Marine Heatwaves and Overall High Seasonal Temperatures
Authors: Lindenthal Anja , Hinrichs Claudia , Jandt-Scheelke Simon , Kruschke Tim , Lagemaa Priidik , van der Lee Eefke M. , Morrison Helen E. , Panteleit Tabea R. , Raudsepp Urmas
Published: August 2023

Abstract. In 2022, large parts of the Baltic Sea surface experienced the third-warmest to the warmest summer and autumn temperatures since 1997. Warm temperature anomalies are a precondition for marine heatwaves (MHWs), which are discrete periods of anomalous high temperatures relative to the usual local conditions. Here, we describe the overall sea surface temperature (SST) conditions observed in the Baltic Sea in 2022 and provide a spatio-temporal description of surface MHW events based on remote sensing, model reanalyses and in-situ station data. Most MHWs, four and locally even up to seven events, were detected in the western Baltic Sea and the Inner Danish Straits, where maximum MHW intensities reached values up to 4.6 °C above the climatological mean. The Northern Baltic Proper and the Gulf of Bothnia were impacted by mainly two MHWs at maximum intensities of 7.3 °C and 9.6 °C, respectively. Our results also reveal that MHWs in the upper layer occur at a different period than at the bottom layers and are likely driven by different mechanisms. Results from the case studies at two exemplary stations ‘Lighthouse Kiel (LT Kiel)’ and ‘Northern Baltic’ show a significant increase of MHW occurrences of +0.7 MHW events per decade at LT Kiel from 1989 to 2022 and of +0.64 MHW events per decade from 1993 to 2022 at Northern Baltic. Moreover, the expected future increase of MHW occurrences is discussed based on a statistical analysis at both locations.
A Stylistic Analysis of Diverse Linguistic Features in Maupassant’s The Piece of String
Authors: Mortaza Ali , Mohsin Liaqat Ali , Afzal Muhammad Imran
Published: August 2023

This article offers a comprehensive stylistic analysis of Maupassant’s renowned short story, The Piece of String including imagery, alliteration, simile and anaphora, using the theoretical perspective of Wales, Nikolyukina, Kemertelidze and Manjavidze. Employing a third-person omniscient narrative voice, Maupassant establishes a sense of intimacy with the characters, delving into their inner thoughts and emotions. Rich and evocative imagery further enhances the story’s vivid portrayal of the Normandy countryside and its inhabitants. Noteworthy is the skillful use of symbolism, with the piece of string serving as a powerful metaphor for the fragility of one’s reputation, susceptible to ruin through the dissemination of rumors. Through repetition, anaphora and suspenseful narrative elements, the author effectively sustains readers’ engagement. This scholarly pursuit constitutes a commendable addition to the realm of literary criticism, enriching the comprehension of Maupassant’s literary finesse, while simultaneously accentuating the import of stylistic exploration in deciphering the strata of meaning enshrined within timeless literary creations.
Optimisation of Pedal Power Output and Pedalling Rate Based on the Physiological Response of Male Agricultural Worker
Authors: V. V. Aware  , A. K. Mehta
Published: August 2023

Human power can be better utilised in rotary mode either by cranking or by pedalling. In occupational workload, pedalling is preferred over cranking as the former results less physiological cost. The present study aimed to determine the most economical pedalling rates at various power outputs as well as to arrive at the optimum power output and pedalling rate combination. Ten male subjects participated as replications with two independent parameters viz. power output (4 levels) and pedalling rate (5 levels). Three physiological parameters viz HR, OCR and ∆HR were studied. It was observed that all physiological parameters initially decreased, and then increased following a curvilinear relationship with respect to pedalling rate for all power outputs. The limiting power output for male agricultural workers was about 60 W in pedalling mode with pedalling rate 60 rpm. The HR, ∆HR and OCR at this power–pedalling rate combination were 116 beats.min-1, 33 beat.min-1 and 0.8 l.min-1, respectively.
Application of Soil and Water Assessment Tool for Runoff Simulation in a Data Scarce Himalayan Watershed
Authors: Tabasum Rasool  , Rohitashw Kumar
Published: August 2023

The present study was conducted to simulate runoff in the watershed of Dal (188.72 km2 ) located in the temperate region of Kashmir using Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT). The study watershed is characterized by significant climatic contrast, abrupt topography, and soil fragility, thereby resulting in flash floods and water erosion. Such situation requires interventions to preserve soil and water resources, and a decision tool for integrated watershed management. The SWAT was calibrated for the year 2010, and validated for the year 2011, based on a comparison of simulated and observed monthly runoff at the watershed outlet. The model performance was evaluated using coefficient of determination (R2 ), Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (ENS), relative root means square error (RRMSE) and percent bias (PBIAS). During the calibration period, R2 , ENS, RRMSE and PBIAS were 0.98, 0.87, 1.3 and (-) 26, respectively. During the validation period, the values of R2 , ENS, RRMSE and PBIAS were 0.97, 0.84. 1.1 and (-) 26.0, respectively. The modelled values showed reasonably good agreement with the observed values of runoff, both during calibration and validation periods. The runoff in the watershed was quantified under the prevailing land use conditions. The study demonstrated a satisfactory application of the SWAT model for quantification of hydrological processes in a watershed under data scarce condition.
Effect of Radio Frequency Heating on Physical and Biochemical Parameters of Black Pepper Powder
Authors: P. F. Mathad  , Udaykumar Nidoni  , S. G. Ambrish  , Nagaraj Naik
Published: August 2023

The effect of radio-frequency (RF) heating on quality parameters of powdered black pepper spice was investigated. Black pepper powder was treated with RF energy to achieve 70o C average temperature maintained for 15 minutes. There was no significant difference in colour, water activity and piperine content of RF-treated and untreated black pepper powder. The essential oil extracted from the treated and untreated black pepper powder was 0.52 g and 0.55 g, respectively. Total phenolic contents of black pepper essential oil were 0.29±0.02 mg GAE. g-1 oil for untreated sample and 0.30±0.02 for RF-treated sample. The results suggested that RF heating can be effectively used for black pepper powder without significant changes in its physical and biochemical parameters.
Drying Characteristics of Plum Tomato under Different Physical Treatments for Producing Powder
Authors: Abhay Kumar Thakur  , Indu Shekhar Singh  , Vidya Bhushan Shambhu
Published: August 2023

Plum tomatoes were dried under hot air convection for producing powder. Different physical treatments were performed to achieve faster drying and milling. Initial moisture of tomato was 93.97 % with TSS of 4.6 %, which was dried to around 5 % moisture. Among the treatments, longitudinally cut in 16 pieces and cross-section slice segments took less time to dry and gave higher (6.4 %) drying yield. The effectiveness of treatments on drying characteristics and quality of tomato powder were examined. Mathematical models were employed by non-linear regression analysis to appropriately describe the drying behaviours. The physico-chemical quality characteristics of fresh and powder tomato were evaluated in terms of size and shape, peel pulp seed ratio, TSS, ascorbic acid, acidity, lycopene and solubility. The overall sensory perception revealed that all treatment samples of tomato powder reconstituted well in the form of soup-mix and achieved nearly equal scores on different quality attributes.
Formulating a Business Strategy for Herbal Company
(The Case of PT. XYZ)
Authors: Gumilang Praditya , Indrawan Dikky , Rifin Amzul
Published: August 2023

The large potential in the chemical, pharmaceutical and traditional medicine industries raise many new challenges for players in the industry, especially for MSMEs. The purpose of this study is to analyze the external and internal environment of PT. XYZ, formulate strategic alternatives and strategic priorities for PT. XYZ's business development, and mapping program recommendations from alternative strategies in PT. XYZ's business development. The analysis tool used is the QSPM method with SWOT analysis. Then mapping program recommendations from alternative strategies is carried out using the strategy architecture method. The results of the formulation with the SWOT matrix produce eight alternative business strategies with a focus on market penetration and product development. The results of business strategy priorities based on the company's current conditions are 1) Managing licensing by utilizing intensive support from BPOM (online assistance, 50% PNBP fee discount, and free lab testing); 2) Expanding the marketing of extract product manufacturing services, simplicia, and contract manufacturing; 3) Maximizing marketing channels through digital media; 4) Develop new product ideas and innovations in the herbal industry; 5) Collaborating with other certified parties to use production facilities; 6) Maintaining the quality and variety of products; 7) Strengthening partnerships with resellers to minimize marketing costs.

Keywords: Competitive Strategy, Herbal Industry, MSME, Strategy Architecture, SWOT, QSPM.
Evolution of Materials for Internal Combustion Engines Pistons
Authors: Adil H. , Gerguri S. , Durodola J.
Published: August 2023

Piston is one of the most important components in an internal combustion engine which transfers combustion energy to the crankshaft via a connecting rod. Increase in an engine’s efficiency has somehow necessitated improvement in the piston. This improvement can be achieved by better piston design or using material with superior mechanical properties. Engineers have experimented with different materials for pistons since the introduction of internal combustion engines. This paper reviews the evolution of materials for pistons since the beginning of automotive industry to present day and analyses the properties that attracted engineers to use these materials. The paper also focuses on newly developed materials that have the potentials to replace current piston materials and the work that is taking place. The current trend of changing from diesel to petrol in small internal combustion engines and the affect this will have on piston materials has been analysed.

Keywords: Aluminium, Combustion Engine, Nanostructured, Piston Material, Piston.
Comparison of KNN, naive bayes, and decision tree methods in predicting the accuracy of classification of immunotherapy dataset
Authors: Reska Nadhifa , Tsabita Khansa
Published: August 2023

Health is crucial for humans to carry out daily activities, and cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Maintaining health is essential in minimizing factors associated with cancer. Immunotherapy is a new cancer treatment technique that has s shown a bigger success rate compared with conventional techniques. However, the effectiveness of this method depends on accurate diagnosis, which requires deeper analysis and research on classification methods. This study compares the accuracy of KNN, Naive Bayes, and Decision Tree classification methods in predicting the accuracy of immunotherapy treatment. The goal is to find the most effective classification techniques that can provide more accurate predictive results in treating diseases using immunotherapy. Based on the test results of Naive Bayes, Decision Tree, and K-Nearest Neighbor, the result obtained of accuracy rates are 81.11%, 80.00%, and 74.44%. From the accuracy comparison, it is known that the Naive Bayes algorithm is the most effective algorithm with the highest accuracy value of 81.11%.
Exploring the Five Influential Action Factors to Unravel Procrastination
Authors: Thomas Anil
Published: August 2023

The voluntary delaying of work completion in the face of potential drawbacks is known as procrastination. It has substantial effects on personal, academic, and professional spheres. In order to better comprehend procrastination's underlying mechanisms, contributory elements, and potential mitigation measures, this paper aims to present a thorough and multifaceted investigation of the procrastinatory behaviour. This paper highlights a detailed examination of the cognitive, affective, and motivational elements of procrastination by synthesising the available literature from the psychology and cognitive science domains. There are five potential reasons as to why people procrastinate: when goals are too big, when goals are too small, and issues with respect to belief, attitude, as well as skill deficits. The paper also highlights a mitigation model basing analysis of chunking and Neuro-Linguistic Programming to end the vicious cycle with respect to procrastinatory behaviour.
ELI Teacher Snapshots
Authors: staff ELI
Published: August 2023

English Language Institute (ELI) teachers will have 2-3 minutes to share what they have recently been working on. Come hear about the ELI's diverse programmes and groups of learners.
Rural Water Supply Systems in Nepal: Factors Affecting Equitable Access to Water
Authors: Raut Manita , Rajouria Alok
Published: August 2023

Issues of gender and social inclusion in the governance mechanism of rural water supply systems have been a major concern of users, policymakers, and practitioners in Nepal. Amid changing livelihood context due to migration, transition to a federal governance structure, and social hierarchies, communities face persistent inequities in access to safe water, while its supply continues to diminish. In this context, increasing competition for water has in many instances resulted in the fulfillment of water needs of some groups, while compromising the water needs of others.  In such instances, it is usually the poor and marginalized groups who are disproportionately affected. Moreover, understanding the factors affecting equitable access to an adequate supply of water now particularly after Nepal’s entry into the new federal governance system, and COVID-19 pandemic is paramount.
Based on the learnings of 3-year research project that seeks to understand the role of gender and power dynamics in the functionality of community water systems, this paper will provide insights on collective water management practices. A mix of qualitative inquiries such as focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, social and institutional mapping, and observation were utilized to collect the data. This paper will present evidence from the project sites highlighting how community institutions are managing the supply and distribution of water particularly by discussing factors influencing equitable water supply.
Forming Policy Intellectuals in the Asia Pacific and Africa: Communication Policy Research South, 2006–2018
Authors: Samarajiva Rohan , Gamage Sujata N.
Published: August 2023

Knowledgeable and motivated policy intellectuals are needed for effective information and communication technology policy and regulation. This article describes a Telecommunication Policy Research Conference (TPRC)–influenced conference and training program intended to develop such policy intellectuals in the Asia Pacific and Africa, which began in 2006 and ended in 2018. It was unique in emphasizing the development of junior scholars. Evidence of research and policy engagement from tracer surveys is presented. The causes of the brevity of CPRsouth’s existence are analyzed in relation to EuroCPR and TPRC using a model of knowledge network evolution, including the role of external “subsidies” and the mismatch between potential funders and the scope of the activity.
“Through a Glass, Darkly”: Paradise Lost and Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians
Authors: Selmer Aidan
Published: August 2023

To an extent unnoticed in previous scholarship, Milton frequently engages passages from Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians in De Doctrina Christiana and Paradise Lost. This is attested not only in the exegesis that Milton undertakes in both works but also in Milton’s personal King James Bible in which a marginal annotation records his preference to translate Paul’s reference to seeing “through a glass, darkly” as “in a riddle” (1 Cor. 13:12). This essay argues that Milton’s wrestling with Pauline scripture during the composition of De Doctrina Christiana helps to explicate his recurring citation of 1 Corinthians 15:24–28 in Paradise Lost. In the poem’s scenes of heavenly council, God the Father and the Son predict—repeatedly, and without theological consensus—the apocalyptic state that Paul describes. This begets a Miltonic poetic style that conforms to Paul’s concept of divine mystery, or spiritual truth known imperfectly.
Milton and the Uses of Stupidity
Authors: Peters Jason S.
Published: August 2023

When we call someone or something “stupid,” it is an insult. So, when Milton’s narrator in Paradise Lost says Satan is momentarily rendered “stupidly good” at the sight of Eve, we read it the same way: the devil’s brief redemption is downplayed while his stupidity is emphasized. This essay argues that privileging rational human agency and virtuous freedom over more aesthetic and potentially “stupid” forms of wonder makes it hard to recognize the unsettling relation between Satan’s experience and the intellectual innocence that was prized by experimentalists such as Francis Bacon. It also suggests that Milton’s reflections on stupidity offer a helpful way to think about literary criticism; far from being a bad thing, Satan’s stupidity is a form of innocence that emerges from skepticism and critique—a kind of astonishment that brings us face to face with our own limits, not only as readers and students, but also as scholars and teachers.
Retrospective Comparison of Percutaneous Forceps Dilatation Tracheostomy and Conventional Surgical Tracheostomy
Authors: UÇKUN Serkan , DEMİR Füsun , UGÜN Fatih , KOCAOĞLU Nazan , SAĞIR Özlem , KÖROĞLU Ahmet
Published: August 2023

Retrospective Comparison of Percutaneous Forceps Dilatation Tracheostomy and Conventional Surgical Tracheostomy

INTRODUCTION AND AIM: We aimed to retrospectively evaluate the early complications of conventional surgical and percutaneous forceps dilatation tracheostomies in ICU patients. MATERIAL and METHODS: Electronic records of ICU patients hospitalized in our unit between 2019 and 2022 were retrospectively scanned. Demographic data, the tracheostomy tecnique and early complications related to the procedure were recorded. RESULTS: A total of 64 patients underwent a tracheostomy in our ICU. 34 (53.2%) patients underwent conventional surgical tracheostomy (CST) and 30 (46.8 %) patients underwent percutaneous forceps dilatation tracheostomy (PFDT). The mean age of the patients was 73.30±14.45 y, and 29 (45.31%) patients were male. The mean length of intubation before the procedure was 19.36±7.76 days, it was significantly longer in the CST group (21.74±9.34 days) compared to the PFDT group (16.67±7.31 days) (p=0.02).Early complications occured in 7 patients (20.58%) in the CST, and in 5 patients (16.66%) in the PFDT group. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: We believe that in carefully selected and prepared patients, the rate of early complications of PFDT is similar to CST when it is applied by experienced physicians. KEYWORDS: intensive care, percutaneous tracheostomy, complications
Nuclear Signalling and Escalation Risk in the India-Pakistan Context: A Critical Overview of the 2001-02 Standoff
Authors: Rizwan Zeb
Published: August 2023

A terrorist attack on the Indian parliament on 13 December, 2001 resulted in a ten-month long military stand-off between India and Pakistan. Throughout this period, both sides conducted aggressive and provocative signalling by conducting missile tests, and through bellicose speeches, statements and press briefings. These signals were conveyed at various levels by the political, military, and bureaucratic leadership. This paper provides a theoretical framework about signalling, deterrence stability and the escalation risk grounded in the classical understanding on nuclear deterrence and escalation. The paper analyses the nuclear signalling during the stand-off in light of the theoretical framework. The paper tests the hypothesis that a high percentage of indirect signalling would induce instability into a nuclear crisis, and the large number of actors sending signals from either side would increase the likelihood of miscommunication. By sifting through media reports during the stand-off, an elimination exercise was conducted and 72 signals were identified and analysed. The paper is divided into five sections and points to the limitation of the Cold War model to explain the South Asian strategic stability dynamics and the need to work out a model specific to South Asian strategic dynamics.
A PERFORMANCE AND TRAINING GAME/SPORT IN THE OTTOMAN EMPIRE IN THE LIGHT OF ARCHIVE DOCUMENTS: TOMAK
Authors: DEDE Mevlüt
Published: August 2023

Historical data and modern research say the same thing; People - especially children - learn through games. Psychologists state that the games played in childhood are also learning. Even in the historical process, there are many examples of that learning begins in childhood. For example, if we look at the history of Turks, it is seen that there is a nation that has spread to very different geographies from the lands of its birth and established states of various sizes there. For this reason, the comments which have been made by the academic studies are in agreement with the point that the Turks have been a warrior nation. Here is perhaps the most important factor in the Turks being a warrior nation that whether it is a girl or a boy, there have been trainings taken in the form of a game at an early age. So, Turks have taught their children to ride horses, use swords, bows and arrows at a young age. While a warrior generation has emerged afterwards, the children have continued their education as a game both during and after that. This tradition has continued from generation to generation and has actually survived to the present day. Today, while children learn through games, it must be because of this that there is still war in these games. It would not be wrong to say that this culture's traditional learning through games continued in the Ottoman Empire as well. Many sports and games were played in the Ottoman palace, which was the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire. The plays performed by stunters, gypsies, fireplayers etc. have just some shows to watch. Games such as javelin, soapwort, horse racing, wrestling and truncheon game should be considered both as entertainment and as training. As many scholars have already done substantial research on the aformentioned games, they are already well known to us. As far as the game called tomak is concerned, we have either limited or partially incorrect information on it, however. In this article, we have extensively examined the game of Tomak by using the Ottoman archival documents, local historians, diary writers as well as contemporary foreign sources of the time. In the lights of these extensive sources, we provide a more comprehensive and nuanced picture of the Tomak, which includes detailed information like purpose of the game, its playground, rules of the game, Ottoman sultans showing interest on the game. By studying the Tomak, which first appeared in first of quarter of 18th century and continued to be played up until the first half of the 19th century, we not only aim to contribute history of the sport and the game in general but also to show its places in the history of Ottoman sports and games in particular.