bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing SNV identification in whole-genome sequencing data through the incorporation of known population genetic variants into the minimap2 index
Authors: Guguchkin Egor , Kasianov Artem , Belenikin Maksim , Zobkova Gaukhar , Kosova Ekaterina , Makeev Vsevolod , Karpulevich Evgeny
Published: February 2024

Motivation
Alignment of reads to a reference genome sequence is one of the key steps in the analysis of human NGS whole-genome sequencing data. The quality of the subsequent steps of the analysis, such as the results of clinical interpretation of genetic variants or the results of a genome-wide association study (GWAS), depends on the correct identification of the position of the read as a result of its alignment. The amount of human NGS whole-genome sequencing data is constantly growing. There are a number of human genome sequencing projects worldwide that have resulted in the creation of large-scale databases of genetic variants of sequenced human genomes. Such information about known genetic variants can be used to improve the quality of alignment at the read alignment stage when analysing sequencing data obtained for a new individual, for example, by creating a genomic graph. While existing methods for aligning reads to a linear reference genome have high alignment speed, methods for aligning reads to a genomic graph have greater accuracy in variable regions of the genome. The development of a read alignment method that takes into account known genetic variants in the linear reference sequence index allows combining the advantages of both sets of methods.
Results
In this paper we present the minimap2_index_modifier tool, which allows the construction of a modified index of a reference genome using known SNVs and indels of a given human population. The use of the modified minimap2 index improves variant calling quality without modifying the bioinformatics pipeline and without significant additional computational overhead. Using the FDA Precision Truth Challenge V2 benchmark data (for HG002 short-read data aligned to the GRCh38 linear reference (GCA_000001405.15) with parameters k = 27 and w = 14) it was demonstrated that the number of false negative genetic variants decreased by more than 2000, and the number of false positives decreased by more than 200.
First Record of Butis humeralis (Gobiiformes: Butidae) from the West Coast of India with special emphasis to its Early Developmental Stages
Authors: Shameena M. K. , Kumar Ratheesh , Sr V. L. , Sajeela K. A. , Kaladharan P.
Published: February 2024

Dark sleeper or olive flathead-gudgeon, Butis humeralis (Valenciennes 1837), was discovered for the first time from the west coast of India. Till date, there have only been reports of this species from India's east coast. A cluster of sparsely distributed eggs of B. humeralis were observed in the gritted glass panel submerged for biofouling studies in aquaculture cage sites near Kalamukku fishing harbour in the Cochin Estuary. The egg mass covered an area of 61.80 cm2 with an average abundance of 124.51 ± 27.25 eggs/cm2. Molecular characterization of the eggs was done to affirm the species identification. The eggs of B. humeralis were, adhesive, pyriform-shaped and translucent with brownish yellow colour with a size measurement of 0.41 ± 0.01 mm and 0.36 ± 0.01 mm diameters along long and short axis, respectively. The eggs were reared up to 144 hph (hour post-hatch) subsequently. The newly hatched larvae of B. humeralis were slender and translucent with 1.01 ± 0.037 mm total length (TL) with a yolk sac of size 0.624 ± 0.05 mm and 0.415 ± 0.05 mm along longitudinal and horizontal axis, respectively. After 72 hph, fully pigmented eyes were observed whereas a well-developed mouth with distinct upper and lower jaw appeared on the fifth day of hatching. The TL of the preflexion larvae after 144 hph ranged between 2.08–2.12 mm. The first report of this lesser-known species from the west coast of India demonstrating the developmental stages signifies the need to evaluate their current ecological and conservation status in the ecosystem.
Bending of concrete slabs reinforced by recycling waste
Authors: ATLAOUI Djamal , MANSOURI Arezki , HASSANI Karim
Published: February 2024

This work focuses on the experimental study of mechanical behavior through "3-point bending" tests on concrete slabs reinforced with two types of fibers: metallic fibers (MF) and grids based on polypropylene fibers (PPF). The metallic fibers are sourced from machining waste of steel parts, randomly dispersed within the concrete, while the grids consist of polypropylene fibers. Bending tests are conducted on slabs with dimensions [25x50x7] cm³. Compression tests are also carried out on cylinders with a diameter of Ø160 mm and a height of H320 mm. The fibers are characterized in terms of mechanical strength and pull-out resistance. The concrete composition is determined using the experimental method known as the "Dreux-Gorisse" method. For this study, five contents of metallic fibers (MF) are selected (W = 0.2%, W = 0.4%, W = 0.6%, W = 0.8%, and W = 1%). A control concrete (BT) with a fiber content of 0% (W = 0%) is prepared to serve as a reference. Two variants of polypropylene fibers, small mesh (PPF/SM) and large mesh (PPF/LM), are also included. By comparing and contrasting the results obtained with those of Mohsin Adeel Waris et al [37], it is evident that adding metallic fibers (MF) to concrete at a fiber percentage (W = 0.8%) enhances both strength and stiffness better than adding polypropylene grid fibers, as well as better than the combination of steel and rubber fibers for volumes (Vf = 0.1(SF) + 2% (RF)) [37]. The metallic fibers used restrain cracking due to tilting.
Path to Sustainability Transition: Can the Balanced Combination of Eco-Innovation, Foreign Investments, and Carbon Emissions Pave the Way for Economic Growth and Environmental Harmony?
Authors: Amara Dhekra Ben , Qiao Jiajun
Published: February 2024

Environmental concerns have steadily caught attention as economic growth has developed more rapidly. Governments see technology revolutions, particularly eco-innovations and green technology transfer through FDI, as a solution to modern economic issues and climate change challenges. However, performing eco-innovation adoption separately from FDI is insufficient to solve environmental dilemmas and achieve economic growth and sustainable development goals. As far as we know, there is scarce knowledge about the spatial perspective and the impact of the combined mechanisms of eco-innovation, FDI, and carbon emissions in developing nations. This paper uses the geographic Durbin model based on spatial panel data to examine the combined effect of eco-innovation, carbon emissions, and FDI effects on economic growth in nine MENA countries from 2000 to 2019. The study results are as follows: (i) Eco-innovation, FDI, and carbon emissions positively and directly impact GDP; (ii) carbon emissions are the most critical driver that impacts economic growth; and (iii) the balanced combination of driving factors of economic growth positively and directly impacts GDP. Therefore, the balanced combination of carbon emissions with eco-innovation and FDI substantially affects economic growth, improves environmental quality, and embarks on a sustainable transition path. Policymakers must make more significant efforts to generate more robust green strategies and dynamic systems to endorse the transition to sustainability.
Generalised transformation relations for (1+1) dimensional motion of superluminal particles
Authors: Srivast Vivek Kumar , Verma Alok Kumar , Vaish Garmia
Published: February 2024

Here, we have proposed new transformation relations between two inertial frames with relative velocity greater than speed of light and discussed the required conditions to detect the faster than light particles in physical realm. For this a novel theoretical formulation is conceptualized to uniquely depict the frame of references, valid for all ranges of velocities, in a complex plane. For the tachyonic regime, the super-relativistic gamma (SRG) factor is obtained by parameterizing the generalised gamma factor using the complementary frames of reference of superluminal and subluminal space. This generalised gamma factor can also be reduced in the form of Lorentz factor for subluminal frame of references. The formulation of transformation relations has been analysed in four different classes, i.e., two inter and two intra classes of frames, for subluminal and superluminal particles. Further, it is suggested that intra classes of frames encompass a real gamma factor, whilst, inter classes of frames involve imaginary gamma factor. Velocity addition relations have been deduced and discussed corresponding to each transformation relations. To the end of this work, a generalized gamma factor has been concluded and validated for both frames of references.
Boron-mediated One-pot Access to Salicylaldehydes via ortho-C–H hydroxylation of benzaldehydes
Authors: Wang Ruiyang , Feng Xu , Feng Boya , Chen Yu
Published: February 2024

A novel protocol has been devised for the ortho-C–H hydroxylation of benzaldehydes. Directed by a transient imine group, the borylation of benzaldehydes, sequentially followed by the hydroxylation, furnishes diverse salicylaldehydes in a one-pot manner. The metal-free condition is compatible with various benzaldehyde derivatives, including those with electron-withdrawn halogen groups. The transformation is also highly regioselective, cost-effective and practical. The resultant salicylaldehydes could be readily applied in the downstream synthesis to produce bioactive molecules such as coumarin and benzofuran.
DDoS Analysis: The Effect of Version Number Attack in RPL
Authors: Sayed Ammar Ibrahim El , Abdelaziz Mahmoud , Hussein Mohamed , Elbayoumy Ashraf D.
Published: February 2024

This paper examines the Version Number Attack (VNA), which is a specialized form of Denial of Service (DoS) threat, within the context of the Routing Protocol for Low Power and Lossy Networks (RPL) in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs). The research explores the dynamics and impacts of VNAs conducted by multiple attackers, including an in-depth look at the complex Hulk DDoS attack variant. The study systematically assesses instantaneous power consumption, average radio duty cycle, and overall power consumption.By providing a detailed analysis of the threat landscape, the study offers valuable insights into the vulnerabilities of RPL-based networks. It serves as a foundational study for strategies for behavior advanced multi-attacker scenarios.
Strong programmed cell death ligand-1 affect clinical outcomes in advanced non-small cell lung cancer treated with third-generation epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitors
Authors: Niu Jiling , Jing Xuquan , Xu Qinhao , Liu Haoyu , Tian Yaru , Yang Zhengqiang , Zhu Hui , Sun Yulan
Published: February 2024

Background
Third-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are the standard treatment for advanced epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation-positive lung adenocarcinoma. In first/second generation EGFR-TKIs, strong programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression contributes to primary resistance, significantly affecting patient prognosis. Despite this, the relationship between PD-L1 expression levels and third-generation TKIs remains unclear.
Patients and Methods:
This retrospective cohort study reviewed patients with advanced NSCLC who received third-generation EGFR-TKIs as first-line systemic therapy at the Shandong Cancer Hospital between March 2019 and June 2022. The EGFR status of the patients was assessed using amplification refractory mutation system fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and the PD-L1 expression level was evaluated using Dako 22 C3 immunohistochemical staining. The Kaplan–Meier method was used for survival analysis.
Results
Overall, 150 patients were included in this study. PD-L1 expression was negative (PD-L1 tumor proportion score < 1%) in 89 cases, weak (1–49%) in 42 cases, and strong (≥ 50%) in 19 cases. The median follow-up period for the entire cohort was 22.12 months (median progression-free survival [mPFS]: 24.33 months); the median overall survival was not reached. mPFS for patients with negative, weak, and strong PD-L1 expressions was 23.60, 26.12, and 16.60 months, respectively. The mPFS for strong PD-L1 expression was significantly shorter than that for with weak PD-L1 expression but was not associated with negativity, particularly in the 19DEL and 21L858R subgroups. PFS was significantly shorter in patients with strong PD-L1 expression in both subgroups (19DEL and 21L858R) than in those with weak PD-L1 expression.
Conclusion
Strong PD-L1 expression in tumor cells influenced the clinical outcomes of patients with advanced NSCLC treated with third-generation EGFR-TKIs. Stronger PD-L1 expression in TKI-treated patients with advanced first-line EGFR-mutated NSCLC was associated with worse PFS.
Efficacy and Impact of Peer-Led Education for Persons with Tuberculosis in Kampala, Uganda: A Pre-Post Implementation Study
Authors: Baker Anna , Gupta Amanda J. , Nanziri Leah , Ggita Joseph M. , Hernandez-Ramirez Raul U. , Shenoi Sheela V. , Ayakaka Irene , Armstrong-Hough Mari , Katamba Achilles , Davis J. Lucian
Published: February 2024

Introduction:
Universal TB education and counseling (TEC) is routinely recommended for promoting knowledge and medication adherence, but the quality of delivery often varies because of inadequate clinic space, time, and health worker training. Peer-led counseling is a promising but understudied solution to these challenges. We sought to evaluate the efficacy of a peer-led TEC strategy among newly diagnosed adults initiating TB treatment in Kampala, Uganda.
Methods
We conducted a longitudinal, pre-post implementation study comparing the routine, healthcare-worker-led and peer-led strategies for delivery of TEC to consecutive adult persons with TB at a large, public primary-care clinic. Trained staff administered a standardized TB knowledge survey to all persons with TB immediately following TEC. We compared TB knowledge by type of TEC received using t-tests.
Results
We enrolled 161 persons with TB, 80 who received conventional TEC from health workers between June and July 2018, and 81 who received peer-led TEC between August and November 2019. The proportions of women (28% vs. 31%, p = 0.64) and persons living with HIV (36% vs 30%, p = 0.37) were similar in the pre- and post-implementation periods. Peer-led TEC was associated with a more significant increase in disease-specific (difference + 21%, 95% CI + 18% to + 24%, p < 0.0001) and treatment-specific TB knowledge scores (difference + 14%, 95% CI + 10% to + 18%, p < 0.0001) than routine healthcare worker-delivered TEC. All TB knowledge constructs were significantly higher for those in the post-implementation period than those in the pre-implementation period. Nine participants met our threshold for adequate knowledge (score ≥ 90%) for disease-specific TB knowledge in the pre-implementation period compared to 63 (78%) in the post-implementation period (+ 67%, 95% CI + 55% - +78%, p < 0.001). Twenty-eight (35%) met the adequate knowledge threshold for TB treatment-specific knowledge in the pre-implementation period compared to 60 (74%) in the post-implementation period (+ 39%, 95% CI + 25 to + 53%, p < 0.0001). Finally, the proportion achieving TB treatment success (cure or completed) increased substantially from the pre-implementation period (n = 49, 68%) to the post-implementation period (n = 63, 88%), a difference of + 19% (95% CI + 6% to + 33%, p = 0.005).
Conclusion
Our findings suggest that peer-led TEC is more efficacious than routine TEC at improving TB knowledge and treatment outcomes. Future studies should evaluate the implementation and effectiveness of the peer-led TEC strategy when scaled to a larger number of clinics.
The adaptive radiation of New Zealand’s skinks and geckos is associated with distinct viromes
Authors: Waller Stephanie J. , Butcher Richelle G. , Lim Lauren , McInnes Kate , Holmes Edward C. , Geoghegan Jemma L.
Published: February 2024

Background
New Zealand is home to over 120 native endemic species of skinks and geckos that have evolved through adaptive radiation over the last 24 million years, likely driven by the exploitation of diverse habitats formed during the Miocene. The recent adaptive radiation of animal hosts may facilitate viral host-switching, likely reflecting their close genetic relationships and therefore relatively low barriers for cross-species virus transmission. Conversely, as animal hosts adapt to new niches, even within specific geographic locations, so too could their viruses. Consequently, animals that have niche-specialised following adaptive radiations may be expected to harbour distinct viruses. Through a metatranscriptomic analysis of eight of New Zealand’s native skink and gecko species, as well as the only introduced lizard species, the rainbow skink (Lampropholis delicata), we aimed to reveal the diversity of viruses in these hosts and determine whether and how the adaptive radiation of skinks and geckos in New Zealand has impacted virus diversity and evolution.
Results
We identified a total of 15 novel reptilian viruses spanning 11 different viral families, across seven of the nine species sampled. Notably, we detected no viral host-switching among the native hosts analysed, even between those sampled from the same geographic location. This is compatible with the idea that host speciation has likely resulted in isolated, niche-constrained viral populations that have prevented cross-species transmission. Using a protein structural similarity-based approach, we further identified a highly divergent bunya-like virus that potentially formed a new family within the Bunyavirales.
Conclusions
This study has broadened our understanding of reptilian viruses within New Zealand and illustrates how niche adaptation may limit viral-host interactions.
Numerical Solution of Elliptic Partial Differential Equation: Method of Lines and Crank-Nicholson Method
Authors: Roknujjaman Md , Arefin Mohammad Asif , Joarder Atish
Published: February 2024

The method of lines (MOL) is a solution procedure for solving partial differential equation (PDE) and the Crank-Nicholson method (CNM) is an implicit finite difference method, used to solve the elliptic equation and similar partial differential equations numerically. In this study, the numerical techniques were introduced to solve elliptic partial differential equation (PDE) together with initial and boundary conditions. The Poisson equation was considered as an elliptic PDE. Particularly, two methods were used to solve a two-dimensional Poisson equation numerically, such as the method of lines (MOL) and Crank-Nicholson method (CNM). The implementation of the solutions was done using Microsoft office spreadsheet and MATLAB programing language. Lastly, the numerical solutions were presented graphically which was obtained with method of lines along with Crank-Nicholson method.
Dual-Tree Complex Wavelet Pooling and Attention based Modified U-Net Architecture for Automated Breast Thermogram Segmentation and Classification
Authors: Garia Lalit , Muthusamy Hariharan
Published: February 2024

Thermography is a non-invasive and non-contact method for detecting cancer in their initial stages by examining the temperature variation between both breasts. Resizing, ROI (region of interest) segmentation, and augmentation are frequently used methods for pre-processing breast thermograms. In this study, a modified U-Net architecture (DTCWAU-Net) that uses Dual-Tree Complex Wavelet Transform (DTCWT) and Attention gate for breast thermal image segmentation for frontal and lateral view thermograms, aiming to outline ROI for potential tumor detection was proposed. The proposed approach achieved an average Dice coefficient of 93.03% and a sensitivity of 94.82%, showcasing its potential for accurate breast thermogram segmentation. The automated segmentation of breast thermograms into categories as healthy or cancerous was achieved by texture and histogram-based feature and deep feature extraction from these segmented thermograms, feature selection using Neighborhood Component Analysis (NCA), and applying machine learning classifiers. When compared to other state-of the art approaches for detecting breast cancer using thermogram, the proposed methodology showed higher accuracy. Simulation results clearly expounds that the proposed method can be used in breast cancer screening, facilitating early detection, and enhancing treatment outcomes.
Johann Georg Adam Forster, 1754–1794
Authors: Schreiber Michael
Published: February 2024

In Biographien wird Georg Forster als "Weltumsegler und Revolutionär", "Naturforscher des Volks" oder "gelehrter Weltbürger" bezeichnet. Dabei hat er in seinem knapp 40-jährigen Leben ein beachtliches Œuvre an Übersetzungen geschaffen.
Zur (Un-)Wissenschaftlichkeit der Individualisierungspraxis in forensisch-wissenschaftlichen Gutachten
Authors: Biedermann Alex , Kotsoglou Kyriakos N.
Published: February 2024

Kategorische Zuordnungen von Spuren zu Gegenständen oder Personen in forensisch-wissenschaftlichen Gutachten, sog. Individualisierungen, erfreuen sich in der juristischen Praxis seit je her grosser Beliebtheit. Geläufige Beispiele finden sich in Fachbereichen wie der DNA-Analyse, der vergleichenden Handschriftenuntersuchung sowie, neuerdings, dem Gesichtsvergleich, den auch hiesige Behördenkreise in der Praxis zu verankern gedenken. Entgegen weitläufiger Auffassungen beruhen Individualisierungen in Sachverständigengutachten jedoch auf wissenschaftlich unhaltbaren Annahmen. Im vorliegenden Beitrag greifen wir diese Problematik einmal mehr kritisch auf und illustrieren sie anhand einer unlängst von forensischen Genetikern veröffentlichten Empfehlung, die darauf abzielt, DNA-Spurenzuordnungen auf Personen durch Sachverständige zu legitimieren. Wir zeigen auf, dass Individualisierungen in Sachverständigengutachten praktische, begriffliche und rechtstheoretische Probleme aufwerfen, und aus diesem Grund in sämtlichen forensisch-wissenschaftlichen Fachbereichen als praxisuntauglich zu betrachten sind.

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L'individualisation, c'est-à-dire l'association catégorique de traces à des objets ou à des personnes dans le cadre d'expertises forensiques est encore largement répandue dans la pratique juridique. On trouve des exemples courants dans des domaines spécialisés tels que les traces digitales, l'analyse de l'ADN, l'examen comparatif d'écritures et de signatures, et, plus récemment, la comparaison des visages, que les autorités de notre pays envisagent d'utiliser prochainement en routine. Contrairement aux idées reçues, l'individualisation dans les expertises forensiques repose sur des prémisses scientifiquement infondées. Dans le présent article, nous abordons une fois de plus cette problématique de manière critique et l'illustrons à l'aide d'une recommandation publiée récemment par des généticiens forensiques, visant à légitimer l'association de traces d'ADN à des personnes par des expert·e·s. Nous montrons que les individualisations dans les expertises forensiques posent des problèmes pratiques, conceptuels et théoriques et qu'elles doivent donc être considérées comme inadaptées à la pratique dans tous les domaines de la science forensique.
Philosophical and Pedagogic Views of B.N.Chicherin
Authors:   Kozma Minin Nizhny Novgorod State Pedagogical University (Minin University), Shaposhnikov Lev E.
Published: February 2024

The paper analyses B.N.Chicherin’s views on the individual, society, and their interaction. The emphasis is made on two opposite social trends — aspiration towards solidarity and individualization. Because of his liberal beliefs, the philosopher appears to favor the latter, prioritizing individual freedom. It is worth noting that for B.Chicherin society is not something single whole, existing beyond the person. A person’s behaviour and actions are a stimulus for social development serving as a means to communicate the “world’s energy” and goals of humanity. A very special historic role B.Chicherin attributes to the state, as it affects the “collective will”, narodnost’, which is a basis for social development. Furthermore, the given paper examines the relationship between narodnost’ and humanity — the latter is a guarantee of the historical unity, meaning that nations are to internalize the products of the historical progress. B.Chicherin arrives at the conclusion that Russia is unlikely to have a unique history of its own, rather it needs to join the historical global developmental process (it is evident that the scholar confronts the Slavophile doctrine). The paper highlights that B.Chicherin applies the afore-mentioned principles to the conceptualization of the Russian history. He sees the absolute autocracy as an obsolete regime that peacefully needs to give way to the constitutional monarchy. When analyzing different forms of liberalism, the philosopher suggests that the most effective one is “protective liberalism”, since it encompasses freedom, social order and rule of law. Examining the system of education, the scholar calls for cautious and well thoughtover reforms. He acknowledges a leading role of universities in social development, believing in the importance of preserving their autonomy and increasing their academic status.
Phenomenology of Urban Expert Practices (Regional Ontologies as the Basis of Human-sizedness)
Authors:   Institute for Logic, Cognitive Science and Development of Personality, Shchedrina Irina O. ,   HSE University, Zhuravel Evgeny P. ,   Institute for Logic, Cognitive Science and Development of Personality,   State Academic University for the Humanities
Published: February 2024

Humanity today is undergoing serious changes affecting almost all spheres of life, the entire environment of its habitat. In scientific and philosophical circles, this state is defined as an anthropological crisis. One can argue about its depth and prospects, but in this article we want to draw attention to the phenomenological tools that are being developed nowadays to counter this crisis, to overcome its negative consequences. At the same time, the relevant issues will be developed in the article based on the material of urban expert practices. The focus is on the social and humanitarian potential and the effectiveness of expertise in the outlined anthropological crisis. From the point of view of the author, the current disintegration of the perception of the urban environment as a whole, its ontological regionalization is a kind of spiritual ecological crisis, in overcoming which expertise can demonstrate its real effectiveness not as an abstract reasoning, but concretely, in the organization of relevant intellectual practices. It is this approach that allows us to bring to philosophical grounds the discussion of the prospects for overcoming the anthropological crisis (or rather, the constructive role of expertise, synthesizing the perception of “regional ontologies” as an integral intellectual habitat). Thus, the author of the article, on the one hand, rely on ideas, on general grounds (primarily on those laid down by phenomenology); and on the other hand, thanks to expertise as a subject of analysis, he projects these ideas onto the real human environment (In this way fixing the prospects for overcoming the anthropological crisis).
Indian Concept of Sound: the “Universal Myth” in India and the West
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Tumanian Tigran G. , Pashkevich Hanna
Published: February 2024

The Indian concept of sound became well-known in the West in the 1960s and was understood in a particular way. While many issues may be discussed regarding the Western interpretation of Indian sound, this study focuses on two specific elements: an assertion of the superiority of sound to vision and excessive emphasis on the “non-linguistic” nature of sound in Indian culture. In the West, emphasizing the aural dimension of Indian culture was linked with the opposition of sound to vision and, in some form, to language in its communicative and informative aspects. However, although sound is indeed an essential and exceptional part of Indian culture, it is opposed neither to sight nor to language within it. The difference between these two approaches led to the conclusion that the Western view of the Indian concept was a misinterpretation of indigenous ideas. Within this position, it was understood as an imperfect imitation of the original, with an unequivocally negative connotation. The authors attempt to go beyond such critique, overcoming the tendency to contrast things rather than to see their complicated interrelation. With this purpose, the question about the reasons for the difference between the two approaches is raised. The Indian concept of sound and its Western interpretation are treated as the two “universal myths,” each having a specific function in the corresponding culture. It becomes obvious that, in the social and cultural context of the counterculture era in the West, the Indian concept of sound was destined to fulfill the cultural demands of a host culture.
Healthy snacks and snack lovers: The road to market success for healthy food brands
Authors:   Yildiz Technical University, Senturk Hayat Ayar ,   Lund University, Cakir Mehmet ,   Yildiz Technical University
Published: February 2024

Goal: healthy snacks have received increased attention in the food science and technology literature. Nevertheless, studies exploring how factors in the micro and macro market environment can create opportunities and threats for companies in the healthy snacks market are still lacking. The goal of this research is to provide a road map to help companies’ strategic directions by examining the micro and macro market environment variables of the healthy snack market. Methodology: we conducted interviews with stakeholders of the healthy snack sector who are knowledgeable and skilled in monitoring and assessing both micro and macro environmental factors. The managers of the firms that are the suppliers, producers, sellers, and distributors of the industry, as well as customers who are aware of healthy food consumption, were interviewed in-depth and semi-structured interviews. Then, content analysis was employed, which uses a set of procedures to make valid inferences from the text. Findings: a correct and accurate strategic orientation starts with a successful analysis process. In this context, the main problems/developments are identified through sectoral structure and sectoral trend analyses, and the opportunities and threats that these will present to companies are revealed. Finally, marketing actions have been proposed to seize these opportunities and overcome the threats. At this point, three important strategic marketing objectives that will guide the strategic orientation of the companies stand out. Originality and contribution of the authors: the paper is the first jointly to examine two sides of the healthy snack market (firm and customer perspective). The study’s findings, which were based on in-depth interviews with managers of healthy snacks companies and customers who have high health awareness, provide a road map for firms engaged in strategic marketing.
Bezpieczeństwo zdrowotne rodziny w przestrzeni transgranicznej – ujęcie teoretyczne i praktyczne
Authors: Buller Leszek
Published: February 2024

W niniejszym tekście zostały omówione i poddane analizie zagadnienia związane z bezpieczeństwem zdrowotnym rodziny w ujęciu teoretycznym na podstawie literatury przedmiotu. Tekst zawiera także analizy projektów finansowanych w perspektywie 2014 – 2020 w ramach Programu Współpracy Transgranicznej Polska – Białoruś – Ukraina, który udostępnia wsparcie sąsiadującym ze sobą regionom z krajów rozdzielonych granicą UE. Podany tekst nawiązuje ponadto do 17-letniego zaangażowania funduszy europejskich w rozwój polsko-białorusko-ukraińskiego pogranicza.
Wsparcie rodziny przez Europejski Fundusz Społeczny w czasie pandemii koronawirusa (COVID-19)
Authors: Tylczyński Marcin
Published: February 2024

Celem artykułu jest omówienie jakości życia rodziny w dobie obostrzeń związanych z pandemią COVID-19. Artykuł został oparty na przykładowych projektach współfinansowanych ze środków Europejskiego Funduszu Społecznego. Zdefiniowano w nim pojęcie rodziny, pandemii COVID-19 oraz omówiono projekty współfinansowane ze środków EFS, które przeznaczone zostały w okresie pandemii COVID-19 na wsparcie rodzin i ich bezpieczeństwa zdrowotnego.
Progress of Influenza Viruses and Inhibitors
Authors: Xiao Yuchen , Yong Jianping , Lu Shaoji , Lu Canzhong , Huang Ruiwen
Published: February 2024

Influenza is an acute respiratory disease caused by influenza viruses. It has the
characteristics of fast transmission and strong infectivity, and it does great harm to human
health and survival. It is estimated that the seasonal influenza epidemics every year will
cause about one billion cases of infections and hundreds of thousands of deaths worldwide,
while influenza A virus is the leading cause of infection and death. Currently, the
main drugs used in clinics to treat influenza viruses are neuraminidase inhibitors, and these
drugs have shown excellent efficacy in treating influenza viruses. However, various
mutant strains have developed resistance to these effective drugs in clinics (such as the
subtype mutant strains of H274Y in H1N1 or H5N1 and E119V in H3N2 have developed
resistance to Oseltamivir). Influenza viruses mutate frequently, and new viral strains are
constantly discovered, and the pandemics will break out at any time. Therefore, it is urgent
to develop efficient and broad-spectrum drugs to prevent and treat the influenza pandemic
caused by the emerging new subtypes. This review focuses on describing the pandemic
history, the structure, function and prevention methods of influenza viruses and the
progress of the development of anti-influenza drugs, to provide the reference for prevention
and treatment of influenza viruses and development of influenza virus inhibitors.
A Comprehensive Review of Therapeutic Compounds from Plants for
Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: P. Dhaya Shankaran , K Abinaya , S. Meenakumari , Gopinath Subash C.B. , Raman Pachaiappan
Published: February 2024

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) comprise a large number of disorders that
affect the structure and functions of the nervous system. The major cause of various neurodegenerative
diseases includes protein aggregation, oxidative stress and inflammation. Over
the last decade, there has been a gradual inclination of neurological research in order to find
drugs that can prevent, slow down, or treat these diseases. The most common NDDs are
Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's illnesses which claims the lives of 6.8 million
people worldwide each year and it is expected to rise by 7.1%. The focus on alternative
medicine, particularly plant-based products, has grown significantly in recent years. Plants
are considered a good source of biologically active molecules and hence phytochemical
screening of plants will pave the way for discovering new drugs. Neurodegeneration has
long been linked to oxidative stress, either as a direct cause or as a side effect of other variables.
Therefore, it has been proposed that the use of antioxidants to combat cellular oxidative
stress within the nervous system may be a viable therapeutic strategy for neurological illnesses.
In order to prevent and treat NDDs, this review article covers the therapeutic compounds/
metabolites from plants with the neuroprotective role. However, these exhibit other
beneficial molecular functions in addition to antioxidant activity is the potential application
in the management or prevention of neurodegenerative disorders. Further, it gives future researchers
the significance of considering peptide-based therapeutics through various mechanisms
in delaying or curing neurodegenerative diseases.
Nanocrystal Structure of Minoxidil: A Safe Stimulator for Hair
Growth Factor for C57BL/6 Mice
Authors: Moradi Ali , Seifati Seyed Morteza , Darroudi Majid , Golmohammadzadeh Shiva , Ashkezari Mahmood Dehghani
Published: February 2024

Background::

Commercial Minoxidil (MXD) is commonly used as a vasodilator
agent of hair follicles for providing direct dermal papilla cell proliferation and consequently
enhancing the rate of hair growth.

Objective::

The current study attempted to improve the bioactivity and water solubility
of MXD by producing nanocrystal structures and investigating the obtained hair growthstimulating
activity on C57BL/6 mice.

Method::

The MXD nanoparticles (MXD-NPs) were prepared through a bead mill and ultrasonic
process and characterized by DLS, XRD, UV-Vis, FTIR, FESEM, TEM, and
Zeta-potential techniques.

Result::

The cytotoxicity of MXD-NPs was studied on human dermal fibroblast (HDF)
by MTT assay. Lastly, we analyzed the comparative hair growth inductive activity of
certain MXD-NPs concentrations on C57BL/6 mice. The stabled MXD-NPs (-46 mV,
21.9 nm) caused a significant increase in the hair growth rate of C57BL/6 mice by running
a safe site-specific delivery mechanism on the targeted pilosebaceous follicles when
compared to MXD.

Conclusion::

The MXD-NPs-receiving mice exhibited a greater rate of anagen/telogen
follicular when compared with MXD-treated types, which verified the improvement of
their hair re-growing and follicular-stimulative activities. Therefore, these outcomes confirmed
the potential of MXD-NPs for substituting its commercial solution format as a
safe and efficient iso-formulation structure.
DAYA SAING KOPI ARABIKA JAVA PREANGER DESA SUNTENJAYA KECAMATAN LEMBANG KABUPATEN BANDUNG BARAT
Authors: Aviny Eva Yolynda , Poetra Pandjy Taryana , Sarianti Tintin
Published: February 2024

Desa Suntenjaya Kecamatan Lembang Kabupaten Bandung Barat, menjadi salah satu penghasil Kopi Arabika Java Preanger (KAJP) di Jawa Barat. Petani kopi arabika Java Preanger menggunakan pupuk subsidi dari pemerintah, sehingga perubahan faktor biaya input tradable diduga akan berpengaruh terhadap keunggulan kompetitif maupun komparatif budidaya kopi arabika Java Preanger. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk (1) menganalisis keunggulan kompetitif dan komparatif komoditas kopi arabika Java Preanger di Desa Suntenjaya, (2) menganalisis dampak kebijakan pupuk subsidi pemerintah terhadap daya saing kopi arabika Java Preanger di Desa Suntenjaya. Hasil Policy Analysis Matrix (PAM) menunjukkan bahwa usaha tani kopi arabika Java Preanger di Desa Suntenjaya memiliki keunggulan kompetitif ditunjukkan dari nilai PCR (Private Cost Ratio) sebesar 0,486 dan memiliki keunggulan komparatif ditunjukkan dari nilai DRC (Domestic Ratio Cost) sebesar 0,054. Kajian ini pun menunjukkan bahwa subsidi pupuk dari pemerintah berpengaruh positif terhadap dayasaing kopi arabika Java Preanger
Analisis Pengaruh Faktor – Faktor Produksi terhadap Pendapatan Petani Bawang Daun di Kecamatan Selo Kabupaten Boyolali
Authors: Parwati Luluk , Prasetyo Edy , Santoso Siswanto Imam
Published: February 2024

Pendapatan adalah sejumlah uang yang diterima oleh petani dari usahatani bawang daun yang dilakukan. Penelitian bertujuan untuk menganalisis pendapatan petani bawang daun dan pengaruh faktor produksi terhadap hasil produksi yang berdampak pada pendapatan petani bawang daun di Kecamatan Selo. Penelitian survey telah dilaksanakan bulan Juli-September 2021 di Kecamatan Selo. Metode analisis menggunakan rumus pendapatan dan path analysis. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan rata – rata pendapatan petani bawang daun Rp. 21.631.843,-/masa tanam dengan penerimaan Rp. 26.560.483,-. Faktor produksi yang memiliki pengaruh signifikan terhadap hasil produksi bawang daun meliputi luas lahan, bibit, pupuk kandang, pupuk Za, pestisida dan curahan tenaga kerja sedangkan pupuk NPK tidak berpengaruh signifikan. Faktor produksi yang secara tidak langsung berpengaruh terhadap pendapatan petani melalui hasil produksi meliputi luas lahan, bibit, pupuk kandang, pupuk NPK, pestisida dan curahan tenaga kerja sedangkan yang secara tidak langsung tidak berpengaruh hanya pupuk Za.

Kata kunci: bawang daun, produksi, pendapatan, penerimaan, usahatani.
Proses Informasi dan Komunikasi Sosial Petani Swadaya untuk Mengadopsi ISPO (Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil) di Kabupaten Sambas
Authors: Muliadi Muliadi , Nurliza Nurliza , Suharyani Anita
Published: February 2024

Indonesia terdapat tiga jenis pengelolaan perkebunan kelapa sawit, salah satunya adalah kelapa sawit swadaya. Perkebunan kelapa sawit swadaya merupakan pola pengembangan perkebunan yang dilakukan oleh petani sendiri dalam pengelolaannya, dari tiga pengelolaan kebun kelapa sawit di Indonesia, kelapa sawit swadaya memiliki lahan yang paling luas dan mengalami peningkatan terus menerus. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk merumuskan proses informasi dan komunikasi sosial petani swadaya yang tepat dalam mengadopsi ISPO (Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil) di Kabupaten Sambas. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan di Kecamatan Subah, Kabuptaen Sambas dengan jumlah responden 150 orang petani sawit swadaya. Penelitian ini menggunakan alat Analisis Faktor dan Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa komunikasi yang diukur melalui indikator (Source, Receiver, Mesagge, Channel) berpengaruh positif terhadap adopsi ISPO (Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil) sehingga dapat merumuskan proses komunikasi sosial petani swadaya untuk mengadopsi ISPO (Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil). 
Analisis Ketahanan Pelaku Usaha Pada Kafe Di Kota Malang Saat Pandemi Covid-19
Authors: Ramadhani Mirza , Yuswita Effy , Riana Fitria Dina
Published: February 2024

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis melihat faktor yang berhubungan pada pelaku usaha kafe dalam bertahan dan menyusun strategi dengan pembanding sebelum dan saat pandemi. Lokasi penelitian dilakukan di kafe di Kota Malang. Pemilihan lokasi penelitian dilakukan secara purposive. Metode penentuan narasumber yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah dengan teknik non probability sampling dengan metode purposive sampling dengan jumlah responden sebanyak 40 pelaku usaha kafe. Metode pengumpulan data menggunakan kuesioner online dan dokumentasi arsip. Untuk metode analisis data menggunakan analisis statistik deskriptif dan analisis kuantitatif berupa analisis persamaan struktural (SEM) menggunakan WarpPLS. Analisis deskriptif statistik digunakan untuk menggambarkan dampak pandemi Covid-19 terhadap tingkat ketahanan pelaku usaha kafe di Kota Malang. Sedangkan analisis kuantitatif berupa analisis model pengukuran SEM. Hasil penelitian yang didapatkan adalah adanya penurunan pada tingkat ketahanan wirausaha sebelum ke saat pandemi Covid-19, kemudian entrepreneurial bricolage, entrepreneurial capabilities, dukungan sosial dan kebijakan pemangku kepentingan berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap entrepreneurial resilience.
Pengaruh Atribut Produk, Sikap dan Minat Konsumen Terhadap Keputusan Pembelian Buah Jeruk Lokal di Kota Malang
Authors: Eldisthia Erika , Muhaimin Abdul Wahib , Setiawan Budi
Published: February 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh atribut produk, sikap konsumen dan minat konsumen terhadap keputusan pembelian buah jeruk lokal pada konsumen di Kota Malang. Metode penelitian ini secara kuantitatif deskriptif menggunakan analisis Structural Equation Modeling(SEM) dengan pendekatan Warp Partial Least Square(WarpPLS). Data primer diperoleh melalui pengisian kuesioner sebagai media wawancara secara online. Sedangkan data sekunder diperoleh melalui studi literatur dari berbagai sumber terkait. Penarikan sampel dilakukan berdasarkan teknik nonprobabilitysampling dan terpilihlah 124 sampel sebagai responden dalam penelitian ini. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa atribut produk berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap sikap dan minat konsumen, sikap konsumen berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap keputusan pembelian, Minat Konsumen positif dan signifikan terhadap keputusan pembelian
Strategi Pemasaran Agrowisata Danau Laet Di Kabupaten Sanggau
Authors: Noviana Noviana , Dolorosa Eva , Yurisinthae Erlinda
Published: February 2024

Agrowisata Danau Laet merupakan wisata pertama yang mengembangan konsep agrowisata di Kabupaten Sanggau. Pengunjung berfluktuasi, salah satu penyebabnya pemasaran yang belum dilakukan secara optimal. Metode penelitian deskriptif kualitatif dengan teknik pelaksanaan teknik survey, dan wawancara secara mendalam sebagai metode pengambilan data. Tujuan penelitian menganalisis dan merumuskan alternatif strategi pemasaran yang dilihat dari kondisi lingkungan internal dan eksternal berdasarkan komponen bauran pemasaran 7P, kemudian dilakukan analisis SWOT. Hasil analisis SWOT menunjukan bahwa strategi pemasaran Agrowisata Danau Laet berada pada posisi kuadran I (Strenght Opportunities). Alternatif strategi SO yang dapat diterapkan pengelola (SO1) Meningkatkan peran Pokdarwis dalam menjalin kerja sama dengan pemerintah Kabupaten Sanggau dan pihak investor. Agrowisata Danau Laet agar lebih mengikuti tren agrowisata yang semakin berkembang; (SO2) Meningkatkan pengetahuan pengelola tentang agrowisata dengan mengikuti program pelatihan secara intensif; (SO3) Mengoptimalkan penggunaan media promosi dengan cara memanfaatkan perkembangan teknologi informasi untuk perluasan pemasaran Agrowisata Danau Laet agar lebih dikenal masyarakat; (SO4) Membangun kemitraan dengan pihak jasa usaha untuk menambah nilai jual Agrowisata Danau Laet dalam bentuk kerja sama untuk pengadaan paket wisata.

 
Efisiensi Produksi Bawang Prei (Allium Ampeloprasum) Di Pertanian Organik (Porkab) Desa Suberejo Kecamatan Batu Kota Batu
Authors: Wahid Moh. , Pudjiastuti Agnes Quartina , Khoirunnisa Ninin
Published: February 2024

This study aims to analyze the production factors of leek farming, analyze the efficiency of leek farming in PORKAB. Respondents amounted to 30 people with saturated sampling technique. To determine the effect of the use of production factors on leek farming using Cobb-Douglas analysis, and to determine the level of efficiency in leek farming using three parts of production inputs technically, allocatively and economically. The results of this study indicate that the factors that affect production in leek farming, namely vegetable pesticides, have a significant effect, while land area, labor, seeds, and manure have no significant effect on leek production. Technically, the area of land, seeds, manure and vegetable pesticides in leek farming is not technically efficient while the workforce is technically inefficient. The total value of technical efficiency, which is 1.017, is greater than 1, meaning that the proportion of additional production factors will result in greater production. Allocatively, labor and manure have an allocative efficiency value greater than 1, meaning that leek farming is not allocatively efficient. In the area of land, seeds and vegetable pesticides are smaller than 1, meaning that leek farming is not allocatively efficient. While economically on land area, seeds and vegetable pesticides are not economically efficient, while labor and manure are not economically efficient.

Keywords: Efficiency, Prey Onion,  Production.
Preferensi Petani Terhadap Pemilihan Benih Jagung Lokal Elos Di Desa Maneron Kecamatan Sepulu Kabupaten Bangkalan
Authors: Darmayati Indah Rusliana , Sugiarti Teti
Published: February 2024

Jagung merupakan komoditas tanaman pangan penghasil karbohidrat yang terpenting selain gandum dan padi. Tujuan dari penelitian ini untuk mengetahui karakteristik petani dan atribut - atribut yang dipertimbangkan oleh petani dalam pemilihan benih jagung lokal elos. Metode yang digunakan yaitu analisis konjoin dan sampel diambil dengan teknik simple random sampling sebanyak  55 responden. Hasil analisis berdasarkan nilai utility kombinasi level atribut, petani lebih menyukai pemilihan benih jagung lokal elos dengan penggunaan pupuk (NPK dan Urea) <500kg/ha, dengan daya tumbuh benih cepat 4-6 hari, berkualitas benih unggul, ditanam pada jenis tanah yang kering dengan harga benih ≤Rp.10.000/kg dan stok benih mudah didapat. Hasil tingkat kepentingan atribut yang dipertimbangkan oleh petani pada saat pemilihan benih jagung lokal elos dari yang tertinggi ke yang terendah yaitu daya tumbuh benih sebesar 24.814, kualitas benih sebesar 23.808, penggunaan pupuk (NPK dan Urea) sebesar 18.401, stok benih sebesar 12.427, jenis tanah sebesar 11.042, dan harga benih sebesar 9.508.