bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
(Pro)Renin Receptor Decoy Peptide PRO20 Protects against Oxidative Renal Damage Induced by Advanced Oxidation Protein Products
Authors: Fang Hui , Yang Teng , Zhou Baolong , Li Xinxuan
Published: March 2023

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs). A recent study has shown that AOPP-induced renal tubular injury is mediated by the (pro)renin receptor (PRR). However, it is unclear whether the PRR decoy inhibitor PRO20 can protect against renal damage related to AOPPs in vivo. In this study, we examined the role of the PRR in rats with AOPP-induced renal oxidative damage. Male SD rats were subjected to unilateral nephrectomy, and after a four-day recuperation period, they were randomly divided into four groups (n = 6/group) for four weeks: control (CTR), unmodified rat serum albumin (RSA, 50 mg/kg/day via tail-vein injection), AOPPs-RSA (50 mg/kg/day via tail-vein injection), and AOPPs-RSA + PRO20 (50 mg/kg/day via tail-vein injection + 500 μg/kg/day via subcutaneous injection) groups. PRO20 was administered 3 days before AOPPs-RSA injection. Renal histopathology evaluation was performed by periodic acid–Schiff (PAS) staining, and biochemical parameters related to renal injury and oxidative stress biomarkers were evaluated. The expression of related indicators was quantified by RT-qPCR and immunoblotting analysis. In the results, rats in the AOPPs-RSA group exhibited higher levels of albuminuria, inflammatory cell infiltration, and tubular dilation, along with upregulation of oxidative stress, profibrotic and proinflammatory factors, and elevation of AOPP levels. Meanwhile, in the PRO20 group, these were significantly reduced. Moreover, the levels of almost all components of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and Nox4-dependent H2O2 production in urine and the kidneys were elevated by AOPPs-RSA, while they were suppressed by PRO20. Furthermore, AOPPs-RSA rats showed elevated kidney expression of the PRR and soluble PRR (sPRR) and increased renal excretion of sPRR. In summary, these findings suggest that PRR inhibition may serve as a protective mechanism against AOPP-induced nephropathy by inhibiting the intrarenal RAS and Nox4-derived H2O2 mechanisms.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Experiences and Operations of Sponsors of the Summer Food Service Program in Maryland, USA: A Multiphase Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Lu Stacy V. , Harper Kaitlyn M. , Ding Yoyo , Everett Jordan , Gross Julia , Borman Rachael , Medina-Perez Karen , Pinzini Brielle , Wilson Michael J. , Gross Susan M.
Published: March 2023

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) was allowed to operate in untraditional non-summer months to ensure children did not lose access to free and reduced-priced nutritious meals when schools were mandated to close in the United States. This study assessed the impact of the pandemic on the operations and experiences of Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) sponsors in the state of Maryland during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 (Phase I) and 2021 (Phase II). This study used a multiphase explanatory sequential mixed methods design with qualitative prioritization. Maryland SFSP sponsors completed an online survey (Phase I: n = 27, Phase II: n = 30), and semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with a subset of sponsors who completed the survey (Phase I: n = 12, Phase II: n = 7). Inductive and deductive analyses were used for qualitative data, and descriptive statistics were used for quantitative data. The COVID-19 pandemic caused SFSP sponsors to change their operations. Sponsors were primarily concerned about staff safety/burnout and decreased participation. Sponsors perceived waivers implemented by the United States Department of Agriculture to be crucial in enabling them to serve meals to children during the pandemic. The findings from our study support advocacy efforts to permanently implement waivers and provide free school meals for all children.
Adverse Effects on the Thyroid of Chinese Pregnant Women Exposed to Long-Term Iodine Excess: Optimal and Safe Tolerable Upper Intake Levels of Iodine
Authors: Wu Wen , Guo Wenxing , Zhang Naifan , Gao Min , Zhang Kexin , Pearce Elizabeth N. , Li Shaohan , Ren Zhiyuan , Yang Ying , Wang Chunxi , Zhang Wanqi
Published: March 2023

Ensuring optimal iodine nutrition in pregnant women is a global public health concern. However, there is no direct data on safe tolerable upper intake levels (ULs) for pregnant women. A cross-sectional study was performed to determine the ULs of pregnant women. A total of 744 pregnant women were enrolled in this study. The median (IQR) urinary iodine concentration (UIC) in pregnant women was 150.2 (87.6, 268.0) μg/L, and the urinary iodine excretion (UIE) over 24 h was 204.2 (116.0, 387.0) μg/day. Compared with those with a UIE figure of between 150–250 μg/day, the reference group, the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction was 5.7 times higher (95%CI: 1.7, 19.2) in pregnant women with a UIE figure of between 450–550 μg/day, and 3.9 times higher (95%CI: 1.5, 10.3) in pregnant women with a UIE figure of ≥550 μg/day. Compared with an estimated iodine intake (EII) of between 100–200 μg/day, the reference group, the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction was 4.3 times higher (95%CI: 1.3, 14.4) in pregnant women with a UIE figure of between 500–600 μg/day, and 3.6 times higher (95%CI: 1.5, 8.9) in pregnant women with UIE of ≥600 μg/day. In general, our cross-sectional study found that excessive iodine intake during pregnancy appears to directly increase the risk of thyroid dysfunction. Avoiding chronic iodine intakes of 500 μg/day or higher or having a UIE figure of ≥450 μg/day is recommended for pregnant women in China.
Characterization of Female US Marine Recruits: Workload, Caloric Expenditure, Fitness, Injury Rates, and Menstrual Cycle Disruption during Bootcamp
Authors: Givens Andrea C. , Bernards Jake R. , Kelly Karen R.
Published: March 2023

Basic training is centered on developing the physical and tactical skills essential to train a recruit into a Marine. The abrupt increase in activity and energy expenditure in young recruits may contribute to high rates of musculoskeletal injuries, to which females are more susceptible. To date, the total workload of United State Marine Corps (USMC) bootcamp is unknown and should include movement around the military base (e.g., to and from dining facilities, training locations, and classrooms). Thus, the purpose of this effort was to quantify workload and caloric expenditure, as well as qualitatively assess the impact of female reproductive health and injury rates in female recruits. Female recruits (n = 79; age: 19.1 ± 0.2 years, weight: 59.6 ± 0.8 kg, height: 161.6 ± 0.7 cm) wore physiological monitors daily throughout 10 weeks of USMC bootcamp. Physical fitness test scores, physiological metrics from wearables, injury data, and menstrual cycle information were obtained. Female recruits on average expended 3096 ± 9 kcal per day, walked 11.0 ± 0.1 miles per day, and slept 5:43 ± 1:06 h:min per night throughout the 10 weeks of bootcamp. About one-third (35%) of female recruits sustained an injury. In a subset of females that were not taking birth control and had previously been menstruating, 85% experienced cycle dysfunction during boot camp. High levels of physical activity and caloric expenditure, coupled with the stress of a new environment and insufficient sleep, may lead to alterations in female reproductive cycles and musculoskeletal injuries in young USMC recruits.
How to Monitor Hydration Status and Urine Dilution in Patients with Nephrolithiasis
Authors: Travers Simon , Prot-Bertoye Caroline , Daudon Michel , Courbebaisse Marie , Baron Stéphanie
Published: March 2023

Maintenance of hydration status requires a tight balance between fluid input and output. An increase in water loss or a decrease in fluid intake is responsible for dehydration status, leading to kidney water reabsorption. Thus, urine volume decreases and concentration of the different solutes increases. Urine dilution is the main recommendation to prevent kidney stone recurrence. Monitoring hydration status and urine dilution is key to preventing stone recurrence. This monitoring could either be performed via spot urine or 24 h urine collection with corresponding interpretation criteria. In laboratory conditions, urine osmolality measurement is the best tool to evaluate urine dilution, with less interference than urine-specific gravity measurement. However, this evaluation is only available during time lab examination. To improve urine dilution in nephrolithiasis patients in daily life, such monitoring should also be available at home. Urine color is of poor interest, but reagent strips with urine-specific gravity estimation are currently the only available tool, even with well-known interferences. Finally, at home, fluid intake monitoring could be an alternative to urine dilution monitoring. Eventually, the use of a connected device seems to be the most promising solution.
Analysis of Inner Flow in a Multi-Stage Double-Suction Centrifugal Pump Using the Detached Eddy Simulation Method
Authors: Peng Wenjie , Pei Ji , Yuan Shouqi , Wang Jiabin , Zhang Benying , Wang Wenjie , Lu Jiaxing
Published: March 2023

In order to analyze the inner flow in a multi-stage double-suction centrifugal pump, which is regarded as a common way of knowing the current characteristics of the pump and as the basis of optimization for better performance, a numerical simulation considering the velocity field distribution characteristics and pressure fluctuation propagation law using the detached eddy simulation method was conducted. Additionally, the principle of entropy generation was put to use to quantify and compare the energy loss of different components. The results reveal that the existence of unstable flow structures in the first-stage impeller and a large number of vortical structures in the back-channel result in reduced operational efficiency of the pump. Furthermore, the pressure fluctuation intensity reaches its maximum with 0.15 at the blade trailing edge, which propagates to the tongue region of the forward flow channel and the double-volute under the low rates condition. Additionally, the main frequency of the monitoring points in the inter-stage flow channel and volute is basically located at a frequency of 198.667 Hz, which is twice the blade frequency. Consequently, the wall entropy production accounting for nearly 25% cannot be ignored and that the loss mainly occurs in the double-volute and the inter-stage flow channel due to the occurrence of irregular flow in the above components with more than 50%. The outcomes of this research present a valuable point of reference for the optimization of structural design in multistage turbomachines with various applications.
Radar Maneuvering Target Detection Based on Product Scale Zoom Discrete Chirp Fourier Transform
Authors: Xia Lang , Gao Huotao , Liang Lizheng , Lu Taoming , Feng Boning
Published: March 2023

Long-time coherent integration works to significantly increase the detection probability for maneuvering targets. However, during the observation time, the problems that often tend to occur are range cell migration (RCM) and Doppler frequency cell migration (DFCM), due to the high velocity and acceleration of the maneuvering target, which can reduce the detection of the maneuvering targets. In this regard, we propose a new coherent integration approach, based on the product scale zoom discrete chirp Fourier transform (PSZDCFT). Specifically, by introducing the zoom operation into the modified discrete chirp Fourier transform (MDCFT), the zoom discrete chirp Fourier transform (ZDCFT) can correctly estimate the centroid frequency and chirp rate of the linear frequency-modulated signal (LFM), regardless of whether the parameters of the LFM signal are outside the estimation scopes. Then, the scale operation, combined with ZDCFT, is performed on the radar echo signal in the range frequency slow time domain, to remove the coupling. Thereafter, a product operation is executed along the range frequency to inhibit spurious peaks and reinforce the true peak. Finally, the velocity and acceleration of the target estimated from the true peak position, are used to construct a phase compensation function to eliminate the RCM and DFCM, thus achieving coherent integration. The method is a linear transform without energy loss, and is suitable for low signal-to-noise (SNR) environments. Moreover, the method can be effectively fulfilled based on the chirp-z transform (CZT), which prevents the brute-force search. Thus, the method reaches a favorable tradeoff between anti-noise performance and computational load. Intensive simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Characteristics of Dust Weather in the Tarim Basin from 1989 to 2021 and Its Impact on the Atmospheric Environment
Authors: Zhou Yongchao , Gao Xin , Lei Jiaqiang
Published: March 2023

Dust emission is a common catastrophic weather phenomenon in Northern China. This phenomenon not only causes environmental problems, such as air pollution, but also has an important impact on the global dust cycle and climate change. On the basis of the dust weather observation data of 44 surface meteorological stations in the Tarim Basin from 1989 to 2021, combined with the dust aerosol optical depth (DAOD), dust surface mass concentration (DUSMASS) and wind speed data, this paper analyses the spatial and temporal dust weather characteristics in the Tarim Basin over the past 33 years. Results show that the frequency of dust weather in the Tarim Basin has declined in the past 33 years. Dust weather mainly consisted of floating dust, followed by blowing dust and dust storm. This weather had a significant seasonal change, with more dust in spring and summer and less in autumn and winter. The dust weather was mainly distributed along the south edge of the Tarim Basin and the desert hinterland of Tazhong. The spatial distribution of the dust intensity (DI) index was basically consistent with the dust weather days. Moreover, the DAOD was obviously affected by dust weather and had a significant positive correlation with the number of dust weather days and the DI, suggesting the vertical concentration of dust particles to a certain extent. Wind is also one of the most important factors affecting the release of dust. The frequency of strong wind weather decreases from the northeast to the southwest, which corresponds to the distribution of the DUSMASS.
Effect of Temperature on Co-Anaerobic Digestion of Chicken Manure and Empty Fruit Bunch: A Kinetic Parametric Study
Authors: Manogaran M. Devendran , Hakimi Mohd , Basheer Ahmad Mohammad Harith Nizam , Shamsuddin Rashid , Lim Jun Wei , M Hassan Muzamil Abdalla , Sahrin Nurul Tasnim
Published: March 2023

The rapid growth of the Malaysian poultry and palm oil industries has led biomass waste generation in abundance specifically chicken manure and empty fruit bunch (EFB). Anaerobic digestion (AD) is a circular economy-based approach which converts chicken manure and EFB into biogas which can be utilized for heating and power generation. Operating temperature is an imperative consideration for AD hence the objective of the study is to evaluate the effect of different temperature profiles namely, psychrophilic (20 °C), mesophilic (35 °C) and thermophilic (50 °C) on AD of chicken manure and EFB. The kinetic parameters are also evaluated using five kinetic models to enable readers to comprehend the kinetic behaviours of the systems. The volume and composition of biogas is measured every five days for a 50-day retention time. The findings observed that mesophilic condition is the most favourable with cumulative methane, CH4 composition of up to 17.07%, almost two folds that of thermophilic (9.12%) and five folds that of psychrophilic (3.49%). The CH4 generation rate, Rb based on the modified Gompertz model which is deemed the best fit further supports these findings as the Rb under mesophilic condition is significantly higher (0.330 mL/gvs day) compared to psychrophilic (0.088 mL/gvs day) and thermophilic (0.120 mL/gvs day) conditions.
Combined Effects of Climate and Pests on Fig (Ficus carica L.) Yield in a Mediterranean Region: Implications for Sustainable Agricultural Strategies
Authors: Mellal Mohammed Khalil , Khelifa Rassim , Chelli Abdelmadjid , Djouadi Naima , Madani Khodir
Published: March 2023

Fig cultivation has long been an agricultural tradition in the Mediterranean region, providing economic and social benefits to local communities. Understanding fig tree yield response to the rapid invasions of fig pests and shifts in climatic conditions is essential for developing appropriate sustainable agricultural strategies. In this context, we investigate whether rapid changes in climate and pest invasions have had a combined effect on fig (Ficus carica L.) tree yield. We used data collected over 10 years in Bejaïa province, Algeria, and conducted a regression analysis to investigate the relationship between fig tree yield and two key factors. Results revealed a significant warming trend (0.057 °C yr−1), and a decrease in precipitation (−27.1 mm yr−1), in the region. Multiple pests, including pathogenic fungi (Diaporthe cinerascens, Fusarium spp.) and ravaging bark beetles (Hypocryphalus scabricollis), have spread in the region. Fig tree yield declined by 25% during the study period and was affected by both factors. Our findings provide valuable insights that can aid farmers and practitioners in mitigating risks that arise from the combined effects of climate change and pest invasions, thereby promoting sustainable farming practices.
Competitiveness of Ecuador’s Flower Industry in the Global Market in the Period 2016–2020
Authors: Guaita-Pradas Inmaculada , Rodríguez-Mañay Luis Oswaldo , Marques-Perez Inmaculada
Published: March 2023

More intense floriculture activity in Ecuador could mean huge improvements for the country’s economic growth, while at the same time would be a sustainable exploitation of its natural resources. This study aims to help floriculture entrepreneurs in Ecuador with production planning, investment, and marketing strategies. With this in mind, two main objectives are addressed in the paper. The first one is to obtain an analytical overview of the world’s flower industry and the chief exporting and importing countries, as well as of the types of flowers that are offered and demanded. The second is to determine the competitive position of Ecuador’s flower industry and that of its direct competitors in the global cut flower marketplace. To accomplish the latter, we used Balassa’s and Hinloopen and Van Marrewijk’s measures and carried out statistical tests to validate the results. These indicated that both Ecuador and Colombia enjoy a strong comparative advantage among their direct competitors: the Netherlands, Kenya, and Ethiopia. Although the 2018 Logistics Performance Index and the 2017–2018 Global Competitiveness Index rankings put Ecuador in the 70th and 97th position worldwide, respectively, our findings show that Ecuador has the potential to achieve higher market shares in the flower trade globally. Consequently, strategic production policies should be implemented for Ecuadorian flower companies to adapt to the international flower trade requirements and for improving the production and supply chain technologies so that Ecuador can reach other foreign markets.
Occurrence and Distribution of Long-Term Variability in Precipitation Classes in the Source Region of the Yangtze River
Authors: Ahmed Naveed , Zhu Lianqi , Wang Genxu , Adeyeri Oluwafemi E. , Shah Suraj , Ali Shahid , Marhaento Hero , Munir Sarfraz
Published: March 2023

Various precipitation-related studies have been conducted on the Yangtze River. However, the topography and atmospheric circulation regime of the Source Region of the Yangtze River (SRYZ) differ from other basin parts. Along with natural uniqueness, precipitation constitutes over 60% of the direct discharge in the SRYZ, which depicts the decisive role of precipitation and a necessary study on the verge of climate change. The study evaluates the event distribution of long-term variability in precipitation classes in the SRYZ. The precipitation was classified into three precipitation classes: light precipitation (0–5 mm, 5–10 mm), moderate precipitation (10–15 mm, 15–20 mm, 20–25 mm), and heavy precipitation (>25 mm). The year 1998 was detected as a changing year using the Pettitt test in the precipitation time series; therefore, the time series was divided into three scenarios: Scenario-R (1961–2016), the pre-change point (Scenario-I; 1961–1998), and the post-change point (Scenario-II; 1999–2016). Observed annual precipitation amounts in the SRYZ during Scenario-R and Scenario-I significantly increased by 13.63 mm/decade and 48.8 mm/decade, respectively. The same increasing trend was evident in seasonal periods. On a daily scale, light precipitation (0–5 mm) covered most of the days during the entire period, with rainy days accounting for 83.50%, 84.5%, and 81.30%. These rainy days received up to 40%, 41%, and 38% of the annual precipitation during Scenario-R, Scenario-I, and Scenario-II, respectively. Consequently, these key findings of the study will be helpful in basin-scale water resources management.
Sustainable Development of Business Economy Based on Big Data Algorithm under the Background of Low-Carbon Economy
Authors: Liu Xuefeng , Ma Li
Published: March 2023

After the low-carbon economy (LCE) was proposed, countries all over the world examined their national economic structures and found the necessity for developing a LCE. Therefore, it is necessary to vigorously develop low-carbon technologies and improve technological and policy innovation capabilities. From the perspective of promoting the coordinated development of the low-carbon economic system and regional sustainable development, this paper conducted an in-depth analysis of the coordinated development of the low-carbon economic system and regional environmental issues by using the relevant theories of sustainable development, low-carbon economics, and environmental economics. The index system of the low-carbon economic system and regional sustainable development was constructed, and the coupling degree model and regional coupling coordination degree model suitable for the development of the low-carbon economic system and regional sustainable development were established. On the basis of analyzing the status quo of a LCE and the environment in a coastal area, it was finally concluded that in the next five years, the value of the coupling coordination degree of the LCE and its sustainable system development would continue to approach 1 and grow steadily.
Creative Territory and Gastronomy: Cultural, Economic, and Political Dimensions of Tourism in Historic Brazilian Cities
Authors: Leoti Alice , dos Anjos Francisco Antonio , Costa Raphaella
Published: March 2023

This study aims to present the interrelation between gastronomy and creative territories, from the cultural, economic, and political dimensions of sustainable cultural tourism. This study used tourist spaces as creative territories in Brazilian historic cities. The methodological process of understanding the analytical dimensions was based on the regressive-progressive method of Henri Lefebvre that establishes three dialectical movements: the descriptive, the analytic-regressive, and the historical-genetic. This paper deals with the results obtained in the first of three movements: the descriptive process, which aims to know the object that is being studied; making use of public information; and allowing a generalized theorization. The gastronomic heritage is understood as an important experience; however, it still does not play a prominent role in the official identity of the historic towns. The results show that gastronomy, an intangible cultural heritage, is politically forgotten in the historic towns. A diversified range of cultural attractions turned to their built cultural patrimony was recognized, but only three, Pelotas, Sobral, and São João del Rei, have their cultural identity associated with local gastronomy. The tourist activities of the cities analyzed, in their majority, are focused on nature, which propitiates the development of sun and beach tourism, relegating cultural and creative tourism to the background. Culturally the historic cities have their cultural identities associated with the built cultural patrimony, and only Pelotas and Sobral develop actions directed to their gastronomic patrimony. The tourism economy in the historic cities is directly related to cultural and gastronomic activities. Politically, the cultural area seems to be better structured and managed in comparison with the tourism area.
Exploring the Potential of Social Farmers’ Networking as a Leverage for Inclusive Tourism
Authors: Ferrara Annapia , Ferrara Concetta , Tomasi Sabrina , Paviotti Gigliola , Bertella Giovanna , Cavicchi Alessio
Published: March 2023

Social entrepreneurship plays a key role in making tourism an inclusive activity. Literature on the topic is increasing but needs to pay more attention to collaboration, which is crucial for social enterprises. To overcome this gap, the present study focuses on the impact that social entrepreneurs’ drivers and barriers towards collaboration might have on providing decent work in rural tourism. The research considers the case of social farming, which has important implications for developing inclusive tourism. By applying the coding technique to twelve in-depth interviews with social entrepreneurs in the Marche region (Italy), the research reveals different themes and sub-themes influencing the four pillars of decent work identified by the International Labour Organization. Results show that the drivers towards collaboration positively impact new employment opportunities and social security for social entrepreneurs and the most fragile people targeted by their services. Instead, the lack of resources for social businesses and the low embeddedness are the main dimensions hindering the provision of well-being through tourism. This study provides managerial and policy implications to sustain inclusive tourism activities in social farming. It concludes with the main limitations and possible directions for future research.
Enhancing Sales of Green Agricultural Products through Live Streaming in China: What Affects Purchase Intention?
Authors: Zheng Shi , Lyu Xinyang , Wang Jie , Wachenheim Cheryl
Published: March 2023

Live streaming of agricultural products can reduce farmer losses caused by unsalable agricultural products and increase the income of farmers. Live streaming can be especially effective for green product sales as it can increase viewer understanding of and interest in the production and attributes of green products. Using the stimulus, organization, and response theoretical framework, this paper explores the influence of agricultural products anchors’ characteristics on consumers’ purchasing behavior and the mediating effect of green consumption cognition. The data come from surveys distributed online to Chinese shoppers who had participated in an agricultural livestreaming event. A total of 691 valid responses were received. Anchor characteristics of influence, sales promotion, and interactive entertainment were found to positively impact consumers’ purchasing behavior. Green consumption cognition, composed of environmental problem perception and green consumption awareness, has a positive impact on purchasing intent. Furthermore, anchor characteristics of influence and sales promotion can positively influence consumers’ purchasing behavior indirectly through green consumption cognition.
Delay in Decision-Making Affecting Construction Projects: A Sustainable Decision-Making Model for Mega Projects
Authors: Khahro Shabir Hussain , Shaikh Haseeb Haleem , Zainun Noor Yasmin , Sultan Basel , Khahro Qasim Hussain
Published: March 2023

The construction industry is one of the world’s fastest-growing industries, since it directly and indirectly contributes to several other industries. It has been observed that delays in the decision making of important stakeholders negatively impact construction projects. Thus, this has multiple consequences on project performance. Consequently, the purpose of this study was to identify the primary causes of delayed decision-making and offer a decision support model for timely construction project decisions. For factor identification, a comprehensive literature analysis was conducted, followed by an analysis of questionnaire responses of ninety-one professionals. For data analysis, the relative importance index (RII) method was applied. The results indicate that client decision-making delays pose a substantial obstacle for building projects. The early decision-making process is impacted by a lack of technical competence, incomplete paperwork, poor leadership, and coordination/communication issues. The proposed model could also assist project practitioners in improving their project decision making. This research study encourages stakeholders to create and implement an efficient decision-making procedure for timely project decisions. A procedure for decision making that is successful could decrease delays in the decision-making process and prevent conflicts and disputes in projects.
Application of a Generic Model for the Transition to a Product Classified as a Product-Service System: Bike Sharing Case
Authors: Kohlbeck Eloiza , Beuren Fernanda Hänsch , Fagundes Alexandre Borges , Pereira Delcio , de Campos Debora Barni
Published: March 2023

This paper aims to apply a generic model for the transition to a product classified as a Product-Service System in the bike sharing case. For theoretical foundation, a systematic literature review was conducted, and then, the model was developed and validated with PSS experts and statistical analysis. Considering the need of PSS products to be aligned with the Tripple Botton Line, a Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) was performed to measure the environmental and human health impacts of a bike. Aiming to design an action plan and mitigate these impacts, the generic model was applied. The results contribute to (i) the theoretical development of the literature by proposing a generic model validated and applicable in other cases, and (ii) with the practical development, since with the application of the LCA and the model, it was possible to identify an alternative to mitigate the impacts of the most polluting part of a bike: the aluminum frame. Thus, this study proposes substituting aluminum with a polymeric biocomposite: a blend between polypropylene and bamboo fiber. Given the theoretical modeling of this work, future studies can focus on the practical validation of this blend through mechanical testing.
A Cylindrical Optical-Space Black Hole Induced from High-Pressure Acoustics in a Dense Fluid
Authors: Rietman Edward A. , Melcher Brandon , Bobrick Alexey , Martire Gianni
Published: March 2023

We describe the construction of an optical-space, cylindrical black hole induced by high pressure in a dense fluid. Using an approximate analogy between curved spacetime and optics in moving dielectric media, we derive the mass of the black hole thus created. We describe the resulting optical-space using a Bessel beam profile and Snell’s law to understand how total internal reflection produces a cylindrical, optic black hole.
Inhibition of Cytomegalovirus by Pentacta pygmaea Fucosylated Chondroitin Sulfate Depends on Its Molecular Weight
Authors: Sharma Poonam , Dwivedi Rohini , Ray Priya , Shukla Jayanti , Pomin Vitor H. , Tandon Ritesh
Published: March 2023

Many viruses attach to host cells by first interacting with cell surface proteoglycans containing heparan sulfate (HS) glycosaminoglycan chains and then by engaging with specific receptor, resulting in virus entry. In this project, HS–virus interactions were targeted by a new fucosylated chondroitin sulfate from the sea cucumber Pentacta pygmaea (PpFucCS) in order to block human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) entry into cells. Human foreskin fibroblasts were infected with HCMV in the presence of PpFucCS and its low molecular weight (LMW) fractions and the virus yield at five days post-infection was assessed. The virus attachment and entry into the cells were visualized by labeling the purified virus particles with a self-quenching fluorophore octadecyl rhodamine B (R18). The native PpFucCS exhibited potent inhibitory activity against HCMV specifically blocking virus entry into the cell and the inhibitory activities of the LMW PpFucCS derivatives were proportional to their chain lengths. PpFucCS and the derived oligosaccharides did not exhibit any significant cytotoxicity; moreover, they protected the infected cells from virus-induced lytic cell death. In conclusion, PpFucCS inhibits the entry of HCMV into cells and the high MW of this carbohydrate is a key structural element to achieve the maximal anti-viral effect. This new marine sulfated glycan can be developed into a potential prophylactic and therapeutic antiviral agent against HCMV infection.
Challenges and Advances in Bee Health and Diseases
Authors: Cilia Giovanni , Nanetti Antonio
Published: March 2023

Understanding the health status of bees is crucial in assessing the epidemiology of pathogens that cause diseases in honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies and wild bees [...]
DETERMINAN PENINGKATAN KEPUASAN PELANGGAN PADA PT. MONDELEZ INTERNASIONAL MEDAN
Authors: Prabowo Ari
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this study was to know and analyze the influence partially and simultaneously between the variables of consumer perception and consumer trust on customer satisfaction at PT. Mondelez International Medan. The type of research that the authors use in this study is associative research which aims to determine the relationship between two or more variables, while the method uses quantitative methods. The population in this study are all modern sales outlets and traditional sales outlets consisting of 100 traditional sales outlets and 40 modern sales outlets spread across the city of Medan. In this study, the sampling technique used was Proportionate Stratified Random Sampling. Proportionate Stratified Random Sampling is taking samples from members of the population randomly and proportionally stratified, so the number of samples in this study was 100 respondents. The results showed that partially and simultaneously the product quality variable has a significant effect on customer satisfaction, the price variable has a significant effect on customer satisfaction, the service quality variable has a significant effect on customer satisfaction. The results of the determination test show that the Adjusted R square value of 0.756 can be called the coefficient of determination, this means that 0.756 (75.6%) Customer Satisfaction can be obtained and explained by Product Quality, Price and Service Quality while the remaining 38.9% (100%) - 75.6% = 24.4%) explained by variables outside the model that were not examined
PENGARUH PENGGUNAAN APLIKASI FINTECH PADA PERILAKU KEUANGAN PEREMPUAN PEMILIK UMKM DI KOTA SURAKARTA Ika Septi Kurnia Anggraeni
Authors: Anggraeni Ika Septi Kurnia , Sumarmawati Eka Dewi , Fardani Fikrina Faraidi
Published: March 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk melihat pengaruh penggunaan aplikasi financial technology pada perilaku keuangan para wanita pemuliuk UMKM di kota Surakarta saat pandemic COVID 19. Indikator dari penggunaan aplikasi fintech dalam penelitian ini ditunjukkan oleh tingkat literasi keuangan dalam memahami aplikasi fintech, persepsi kemudahan, persepsi manfaat dan persepsi kepercayaan dalam menggunakan aplikasi fintech. Dengan menggunakan 89 responden yang merupakan perempuan pemilik UMKM, dengan persentase sebesar 55.1% didominasi oleh usia 18-25 tahun, dengan tingkat pendidikan rata-rata adalah SLTA sederajat dengan persentase sebesar 48.3% dengan tingkat pendapatan rata-rata Rp 3 juta hingga Rp 5 juta sebesar 38.2% hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa: tingkat pemahaman mengenai aplikasi fintech, persepsi kemudahan dan persepsi kepercayaan dalam menggunakan aplikasi fintech memiliki pengaruh positif terhadap perilaku keuangan. Sedangkan persepsi kemanfaatan dalam penggunaan aplikasi fintech tidak memiliki pengaruh terhadap perilaku keuangan perempuan pemilik UMKM di kota Surakarta saat pandemi COVID 19 berlangsung.
Hubungan posisi kerja dengan keluhan muskuloskeletal pada petani
Authors: Rifai Achmad , Lubis Basyariah , Widyaningsih Fadlilah , Panjaitan Delita
Published: March 2023

Petani rentan mengalami keluhan muskuloskeletal karena beban kerja yang berat dan posisi kerja yang tidak ergonomis. Penelitian ini bertujuan menganalisis hubungan posisi kerja dengan keluhan muskuloskeletal pada petani. Studi ini merupakan penelitian kuantitatif dengan desain cross-sectional yang melibatkan 39 orang petani. Pengumpulan data dilakukan secara langsung dengan menyebarkan kuesioner kepada responden. Untuk mengukur keluhan MSDs menggunakan kuesioner Nordic Body Map (NBM). Data dari penelitian ini dianalisis secara deskriptif untuk mengetahui distribusi frekuensi dari variabel posisi kerja dan keluahan muskuloskeletal. Uji Chi Square dilakukan untuk mengetahui hubungan posisi kerja dengan keluhan muskuloskeletal, serta menghitung nilai ukuran asosiasi PR (prevalensi ratio). Dari hasil uji statistik terlihat bahwa terdapat hubungan yang signifikan antara posisi kerja dengan keluhan muskuloskeletal (p=0,017; PR=2,7; 95%CI 1,023-7,389). Responden dengan posisi kerja tidak ergonomis 2,7 kali kecenderungannya mengalami keluhan muskuloskeletal dibanding posisi kerja yang ergonomis.
ANALISIS PENGARUH PELAKSANAAN GERMAS TERHADAP KESEHATAN LANSIA
Authors: Lase Agustini , Nyorong Mappeaty , Asriwati Asriwati
Published: March 2023

The low implementation of GERMAS in 2020 has a major impact on their health, namely the increased morbidity rate in the elderly. This study aims to analyze the effect of the implementation of GERMAS on the health of the elderly in the working. This study used a quantitative analytical survey with a cross-sectional. The location in the work area of ​​Ulunoyo Health Center, South Nias Regency. The research population consisted of 216 elderly people, samples in this study was 68 people. The technique used is purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using the chi-square test and logistic regression. The results showed that there was an effect of physical activity on the health of the elderly, and an influence of the culture of fruit and vegetable consumption on the health of the elderly who participated. There was an effect of smoking on the health of the elderly, an effect of not consuming alcoholic drinks on the health of the elderly, an effect of conducting regular health checks on the health of the elderly, an effect of maintaining environmental cleanliness on the health of the elderly, an effect of using a latrine on the health of the elderly. The variable that had the most influence on the health of the elderly who participated was the variable of conducting regular health checks. Based on the results of the research, it is suggested that Health Center should be more active and improve special health services for the elderly.
FAKTOR YANG BERPERAN TERHADAP KEAKTIFAN KADER KESEHATAN DALAM PENEMUAN KASUS TERDUGA PENDERITA TB PARU
Authors: Hutabarat Rosinta MM , Rifai Achmad , Moriza Tengku
Published: March 2023

The eradication of pulmonary TB in Indonesia is one of the national priorities for the tuberculosis disease. The purpose of the study was to analyze the factors that influence the activity of health cadres in finding suspected cases of pulmonary TB patients in the working area of ​​Siatas Barita Health Center, North Tapanuli Regency. The design of this research was an analytic survey with a cross-sectional design. This research was conducted in the Working Area of the Puskesmas Siatas Barita, North Tapanuli Regency from Mei to Juni 2021 with a sample of 80 people. Data analysis was carried out by univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analysis. The statistical test used is the chi-square test and logistic regression. The results of the chi-square test showed that the variables of knowledge, attitude, motivation, and monitoring p-value = 0.000 < 0.05, meaning that there was an influence between knowledge, attitude, motivation, and supervision of cadre activity. influential in this study is the motivation variable. The conclusion was that there is an intermediate influence. there was an influence between knowledge, attitude, motivation, and supervision on cadre activity, while multivariate analysis shows that the most dominant factor was the motivation variable on cadre activity. It was recommended to the District Health Office to increase the frequency of supervision and monitoring of the implementation of the pulmonary TB control program in the puskesmas area, specifically the active and sustainable health cadres.
Characteristic Features of Deep Brain Lymphatic Vessels and Their Regulation by Chronic Stress
Authors: Chang Junzhuang , Guo Bingqing , Gao Yan , Li Wei , Tong Xiaoyu , Feng Yi , Abumaria Nashat
Published: March 2023

Studies have demonstrated that a functional network of meningeal lymphatic vessels exists in the brain. However, it is unknown whether lymphatic vessels could also extend deep into the brain parenchyma and whether the vessels could be regulated by stressful life events. We used tissue clearing techniques, immunostaining, light-sheet whole-brain imaging, confocal imaging in thick brain sections and flow cytometry to demonstrate the existence of lymphatic vessels deep in the brain parenchyma. Chronic unpredictable mild stress or chronic corticosterone treatment was used to examine the regulation of brain lymphatic vessels by stressful events. Western blotting and coimmunoprecipitation were used to provide mechanistic insights. We demonstrated the existence of lymphatic vessels deep in the brain parenchyma and characterized their features in the cortex, cerebellum, hippocampus, midbrain, and brainstem. Furthermore, we showed that deep brain lymphatic vessels can be regulated by stressful life events. Chronic stress reduced the length and areas of lymphatic vessels in the hippocampus and thalamus but increased the diameter of lymphatic vessels in the amygdala. No changes were observed in prefrontal cortex, lateral habenula, or dorsal raphe nucleus. Chronic corticosterone treatment reduced lymphatic endothelial cell markers in the hippocampus. Mechanistically, chronic stress might reduce hippocampal lymphatic vessels by down-regulating vascular endothelial growth factor C receptors and up-regulating vascular endothelial growth factor C neutralization mechanisms. Our results provide new insights into the characteristic features of deep brain lymphatic vessels, as well as their regulation by stressful life events.
Witold Pilecki as a caring parent model from the Erik Erikson’s theory perspective
Authors: Juroszek Weronika
Published: March 2023

The subject matter of the paper focuses on the figures of the Steadfast Soldiers as personal role models in upbringing towards higher values. In historical literature, there are many studies dedicated to the Steadfast Soldiers, whereas in psycho-pedagogical literature there have been only a few so far. It is the intention of the author of this paper to reinvigorate scholarly reflection on the educational implications of the biographies of the Steadfast. It is well known that Witold Pilecki, the most famous Steadfast Soldier, was an outstanding patriot. The aim of this paper is to show that he was also a model of a caring parent, inspiring emulation. The article refers to Erik Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development, with a particular focus on the virtue of care, which makes it possible to resolve the generativity-stagnation crisis typical for middle adulthood and helps to properly perform the task of raising offspring. According to Erikson, a truly caring parent continually develops a tendency to care about people (primarily their own offspring, but also people in general), objects and ideas. The virtue of care manifests itself by going beyond the needs of the self, by acting for the good of future generations, by being authentic. Care helps to cope with the stagnation manifested by excessive focus on oneself and resentment towards others. It has been shown that Witold Pilecki perfectly fulfilled Erikson’s listed criteria for genuine caring and is thus a personal role model in education for caring parenthood. The paper uses the biography method. Selected studies and source texts describing Pilecki’s life and activities were used, with a special focus on the memoirs of his daughter, Zofia Pilecka-Optułowicz. She portrayed Witold Pilecki as a parent caring for his offspring and other people, a resourceful farmer vigorously engaged in agricultural production and a man devoted to the idea of helping others, selflessly striving to make it a reality.
Raising a deaf child and a child with ASD from the mother’s perspective during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Plutecka Katarzyna , Gagat-Matuła Anna
Published: March 2023

The aim of the article is an attempt to learn about the subjective experiences of mothers related to the impact of the pandemic on the essence of raising a child with communication disorders, in this case a deaf child and a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Addressing this issue is important from the scientific point of view due to the important role of the process of bringing up a child and its perception by mothers of children with communication disorders. The article examines the role of the family, and addresses the deficit of empirical research and scientific studies on upbringing and parenting issues affecting mothers of children with communication disorders. The work uses the method of individual case study, as well as the technique of narrative interview and in-depth individual interview. Ten mothers participated in the study: five mothers of deaf children and five mothers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The analysis revealed three significant areas indicated by mothers related to upbringing issues . The first area concerned upbringing as a process of supporting the development of their children, the second - the process of shaping desired social attitudes, and the third - dealing with threats caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Analisa Pemanfaatan Sampah Organik Sayuran Rumah Tangga Menjadi Pupuk Cair Organik
Authors: Albina Sira , Beni Petrus , Veronika Siahan Shanti
Published: March 2023

This study aims to utilize household vegetable waste to become liquid organic fertilizer in Cipta Karya Village, Kec. Betung River, Kab. Stuffed. The data analysis method used in this study uses a qualitative descriptive method. The object of this research was carried out in the Cipta Karya Village community, Kec. Betung River, Kab. Bengkayang where the samples were taken were the result of the direct practice of the community from Riam Palayo Hamlet chaired by the Hamlet Head. Data collection techniques using literature studies on the process of making Liquid Organic Fertilizer, Minister of Agriculture regulations, quality standards, benefits of liquid organic fertilizer, raw materials for making liquid organic fertilizer, how to use it, and about microorganisms that help the fertilizer fermentation process. Liquid organic fertilizer from various types of household waste that has previously been chopped and then added with an effectivate microorganism bioactivator (EM4) as an ingredient to speed up the fermentation process. To produce better organic liquid fertilizer, it takes 3-4 weeks from the first day of fertilizer production.