bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Round robin MQTT-based routing algorithm for agricultural IoT network: communication optimization between sensors, actuators and brokers
Authors: Hamini Nardjes , Yagoubi Mohamed Bachir
Published: January 2024

This paper proposes a new protocol based on MQTT for IoT networks in the agricultural domain named FNMB. The latter constitutes a good means of communication between publishers, subscribers and brokers and improves the transfer of agricultural data and allows a good balance of the load between brokers using the principle of the round-robin technique. By alternating between brokers the roles of central broker and bridge broker, our approach allows the network to operate smoothly and reliably. This article also explores the advantages of our approach compared to traditional IoT systems with a single broker, or with a fixed central broker in the case of multiple brokers, based on criteria such as energy consumption and load balancing, and shows the promising results obtained with our approach.
High AST and the Presence of Liver Metastases May Guide for the Need for FDG PET in Advanced Prostate Cancer Patients
Authors: Telli Tugce , Tuncel Murat , Karabulut Erdem , Aksoy Sercan , Erman Mustafa , Akdogan Bulent , Caglar Meltem
Published: January 2024

Objective
2-[18F]fluoro-D-glucose (FDG) Positron Emission Tomograpy/Computed Tomography (PET/CT) may help to evaluate the tumor heterogeneity in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and determine treatment eligibility for Prostate Specific Membrane Antigen (PSMA) targeted radioligand therapy (PSMA-RLT). The aim of the study is to evaluate the biochemical and clinical parameters which can predict the presence of FDG-PSMA discordant disease.
Material and Methods
A total of 70 advanced mCRPC patients who underwent [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 PET and FDG PET/CT between August 2016 and June 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Inter-tumoral heterogeneity was both visually and semi-quantitatively evaluated. Baseline clinical, laboratory and PSMA PET/CT related semi-quantitative parameters were analyzed to predict FDG discordant disease with logistic regression analysis. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to determine the threshold values for the statistically significant parameters.
Results
29/70 (41.4%) of the patients had FDG-PSMA discordant disease based on visual assessment. Overall 427 mismatch lesions (FDG > PSMA) were detected: the majority of these lesions were in the bones (n = 236, 55.2%), lymph nodes (n = 95, 22.2%), and visceral organs (n = 88, 20.6%). Most significant parameters to predict FDG-PSMA discordant disease were serum AST (Youden Index derived cut-off value ≥ 24.5 IU/l, sensitivity 75.8%, specificity 73.2%, AUC = 0.79) and the presence of liver metastases.
Conclusion
The presence of liver metastases, elevated AST may be easily used in clinical practice to predict FDG-PSMA discordant disease.
Research on Dynamic Tensile Characteristics and Surface Crack Evolution Law of coal under Impact Loading
Authors: Wang Ziping , Li Shengwei , Zhang Yi , Qi Peiwen , Zhang Youyou , Chen Yuanjing , Li Yexue , Zeng Gang
Published: January 2024

To investigate the dynamic tensile failure process of coal subjected to impact loading, this study used high-speed camera photography and digital image correlation technology to capture the dynamic tensile failure of coal under impact loading. The dynamic tensile evolution from initial stress to failure was quantitatively analyzed. The captured coal fracture images were processed, and the fractal dimension was used to quantitatively describe the surface crack evolution of coal under impact loading. The following conclusions were drawn from the experimental results: (1) An empirical formula was established to describe the dynamic tensile strength characteristics of coal under different loading rates. (2) During the loading process of Brazilian disc coal samples under impact loading, the maximum strain first appeared at the contact end between the sample and the incident rod. (3) Under impact loading, the Brazilian disc coal sample cracked from the center of the sample and the crack subsequently extended toward both ends. The fractal dimension of the crack exhibited a power exponential relationship with time, and the variation range of the fractal dimension of the crack was in the range of 1.05–1.39.
Impact of COVID-19 on Physical Activity Level and Mental Health of Adolescents: An Investigation during a Major Disaster
Authors: Dong Ru-bao , Dou Kai-yun , HUANG Jiaben , WANG Ronghua
Published: January 2024

During COVID-19, did physical activity levels (PAL) play a role in protecting adolescent mental health?
Objective: This study aims to further understand the changes in PAL and mental health among adolescents before and after the outbreak of COVID-19 and explore the protective role of physical activity (PA) on the mental health of adolescents during major disasters.
Methods: A convenient sampling method was used to conduct a cross-sectional survey using the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (PAQ-C) and the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-60 (MMPI-60). Correlations between PAL and mental health scores of adolescents were tested using Pearson correlation, independent samples t-test, and cross-tabulation analysis in SPSS.
Results: Before and after the outbreak of COVID-19, the PAL of adolescents was 2.36±0.74 and 2.50±0.66, respectively, with a significant difference (p<0.01, 95% CI: 0.09, 0.19). The mental health scores were 1.71±0.60 and 1.86±0.73, respectively, with a significant difference (p<0.01, 95% CI: -0.20, -0.10). The detection rates of mental health problems were 27.50% and 35.50%, respectively. The rates of achieving PAL standards were 30.20% and 18.00% among adolescents, while the rates of not achieving PAL standards were 39.60% and 18.00%.
Conclusion: PA is a protective factor for the mental health of adolescents during major disasters.
Resolving Dual Active Galactic Nuclei with ∼100 pc
separation in MCG-03-34-64
Authors: Falcao Anna Trindade , Turner Tracey , Kraemer Steve , Braito Valentina , Reeves James , Schmitt Henrique
Published: January 2024

Galaxy mergers are expected to play a key role in the evolution of galaxies and their central supermassive black holes (SMBHs) (Springel+2005, Colpi+2011). An observational signature of this phenomenon is the detection of dual active galactic nuclei (AGNs) amongst merging systems, as predicted by cosmological models of structure formation (Colpi+2014, Blumenthal+2018). Dual AGNs at sub-kiloparsec-scale separation are the precursors of merging black hole binaries, an important source of gravitational waves (e.g., Izquierdo-villalba+2021), but a paucity of such systems have been confirmed to date by direct imaging, while other similar claims have been strongly disputed (Koss+2015, Veres+2021). Here we report the serendipitous multiwavelength discovery of a dual black hole system with a separation of ~100 pc, in the gas-rich luminous infrared galaxy MCG-03-34-64 (z=0.016). Chandra/ACIS imaging shows two spatially-resolved peaks of equal intensity in the neutral Fe Kα emission line, consistent with a dual SMBH, which is supported by Hubble Space Telescope (HST), and Very Large Array (VLA) observations. The separation of ~100 pc is the closest dual AGN separation reported to date with spatially-resolved, multiwavelength observations.
Based on the relationship between Hounsfield units and bone mineral density: a tool for preoperative planning of rotator cuff tears
Authors: Liu Guihu , Wang Xiaolong , Ma Yinguang , Zhang Yaxuan , Zhou Haibin , Shen Guangsi
Published: January 2024

Purpose
To quantify the abnormal bone mass of the proximal humerus using the Hounsfield unit (HU) to assist in preparing preoperative surgical plan and improve the curative effect.
Methods
We identified patients who underwent computed tomography and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). The proximal humerus HU values and DXA results were recorded, the correlation of HU and BMD was calculated, and the diagnostic effect was evaluated.
Results
A total of 600 proximal humeri (389 patients) were included in the study. There was no significant difference in the HU values between shoulders (t = 0.62, p = 0.536). The HU values of the humeral head and the greater and lesser tuberosity were negatively correlated with age, but positively correlated with BMD (p < 0.001). We have obtained the exact cut-off value of HU values. All the cut-off values had good diagnostic values, and the area under the curve (AUC) was more significant than 0.70. The linear regression equations of HU values and T score were obtained.
Conclusion
The HU value of CT is an excellent method to evaluate the bone mass of the proximal humerus. We obtained threshold values of abnormal BMD of the humerus head, greater tuberosity, and lesser tuberosity, which can be used to assist in selecting anchors during ARCR and improve the curative effect.
Presenting Analytical Relations and Numerical-Experimental Investigation of the Behavior of Tubular Damper in Compression and Tension under the Effect of Uniform Loading
Authors: Tabatabaei Farough B. , Mirhosseini S. Mohammad , Zeighami Ehsanollah
Published: January 2024

Yielding dampers should be designed in such a way that before the main elements of the structure yield, they provide the possibility of energy absorption and consumption. Therefore, for the structure's basic design, the damper's behavior in pressure and tension should be known, and their effect on the stiffness and strength of the structure can be estimated with relatively simple relationships. The main purpose of this paper is to provide accurate analytical relationships for the behavior of tubular dampers in compression and tension under the effect of uniform loading. In this regard, firstly, the behavior of a circular yielding damper was evaluated based on validated numerical models in ABAQUS software. Then, analytical relationships that show high accuracy compared to the results of finite element modeling have been presented using linear and nonlinear analysis. Also, a new bolt and nut connection detail is provided to reduce the possibility of welding failure at the joints of circular dampers. The new detail has been tested at a full-size scale and has shown no failure at the weld, even at large displacements. In the end, the results of the experimental sample with the presented analytical relations have shown that the analytical relations are highly accurate.
Composition of the CD27+ Memory-B-Cell Compartment Delineates Immunoglobulin Deficiency Endotypes
Authors: Starich Oliva , Rieck Jared M. , Tarter Wyatt J. , Hochheimer Camille J , Knight Vijaya , Abbott Jordan K
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Purpose: The finding of reduced numbers of class-switched memory B cells (CSM) in peripheral blood is widely used to assist the diagnosis and subclassification of CVID. Limited data exists on this finding in relation to the entire class of PADs. In this study, consecutive 8-marker comprehensive B-cell panel results were analyzed to determine how reduced CSM quantities might inform the pathophysiology of CVID and other humoral immunodeficiencies.
Methods: Subpopulations of CD27+ memory B cells from 64 consecutive subjects with or without humoral immunodeficiency were examined to identify associations with diagnosis and serum immunoglobulin level.
Results: CD27+IgM-IgD- percentage (CSM%) was correlated with IgG level in a discontinuous manner with an estimated change point of 9.7% (95% CI: 4.7, 12.4). All subjects with a CSM% below 9.7% had substantially lower serum IgG and IgA levels compared with those above 9.7. CSM% below 9.7% is not associated with serum IgM level. Rather, the proportion of CD27+IgMonly B cells (IgMonly or IgMonly%) is correlated with serum IgM.
Conclusion: Low CSM% may mark an endotype of humoral immune dysfunction defined by either loss of class switching or critical failure of the coordinated production of both memory cells and long-lived plasma cells responsible for adequate immunoglobulin levels in humans. In patients with low CSM%, maintenance or expansion of IgMonly cells and IgM production suggests the former explanation, while concomitant loss of IgMonly cells suggests the latter. These findings provide a simple endotypic stratification method for future studies on the failed coordinated B cell response in humans with PAD.
IPO underperformance and financial inclusion in the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: fourati hedia , ayadi chiraz
Published: January 2024

IPOs (Initial Public Offering) are relevant as a mean of raising external funds to finance growth by investment firms that do not generate sufficient internal cash flows. This study analyzes the relationship between COVID-19 short-term IPO underperformance, ownership structure, liquidity and financial inclusion. The results of the simple regression of stock market return of 11 new French IPO introduced one year before the pandemic for three years 2019-2020-2021 shows that the ownership concentration reduces underpricing of IPO firms. In the whole sample two years after the pandemic underpricing is reduced due to ownership concentration preserving and high initial liquidity. In all times period financial inclusion reduces underpricing of IPO firms.
Network based Anomaly detection using Self-defined One Class Support Vector Machine with Grey Wolf Optimizer for Internet of Things Environment
Authors: Sumathi L. , Valarmathi M. L.
Published: January 2024

Anomaly detection is considered to be an important aspect in protecting Internet of Things (IoT) environment, as it helps to identify and alert abnormal activities in that system. Anomaly detection techniques first learns the normal behavior, based on that learning maps determines the given data instances as either normal or abnormal based on anomaly scores. The proposed self-defined One Class Support Vector Machine (S-OCSVM) generates pseudo outlier using negative data shifting method and applies grey wolf optimization to identify hyper parameters (Nu - lower limit on the required number of support vectors) and Gamma(Smoothness of the boundary) for the model. Experiments on NaBIoT and MedBIoT datasets for the proposed Self-defined One Class SVM shows that the model achieves good detection performance without false prediction of abnormal as normal and negligible misprediction of normal as abnormal
Mathematic Principles for Coding Contrast Variables Based on the GLM Model in Psychological fMRI Experiments with Single Independent Variable
Authors: Huang Wei
Published: January 2024

Some researchers have no idea about how the values in a certain contrast variable table are worked out, as well as no idea about the mathematical mechanisms of designing a contrast variable table based on their own hypothesse, although they know how to use contrast technique just by copying it from relevant contrast varibles table. The current paper is dedicated to detail relevant mathematic rationales for coding contrast variables in the general linear model (GLM) pertinent to hypothetical contrasts of psychological and neuroscience experiments. That is, how the coding values of different kind of contrast variables can be figured out based on relevant mathematical mechanisms, with regard to both un-weighted contrast coding and weighted contrast coding, including dummy variable, effect coding and Helmert coding etc.. Via establishing a transformed general linear model (TGLM) in this paper, a linear bridge between the original independent variable X and the contrast independent variable D i j is built up, so that readers can fully understand the mathematic rationales that how the contrast weights of C j i of ‾Y i related to certain hypotheses Ψ j and their relevant original independent variable X are transformed into codes of a set of contrast variables of D i j. Only when these relevant mathematical principles being grounded in mind, those interested, careful and meticulous researchers can fully master this contrast statistic technique, thereby, they can proceed to figure out how to design their own contrast variables followed on their own psychological study hypotheses using mathematic principles discussed in the present paper, instead of just copying contrast designs from references. However, this paper only deals with GLM analyses with only one independent variable X, with no considerations about GLM with multiple independent variables of X R. Also, multiple codes in the TGLM’s contrast variables of D i j are some transformed representatives of levels or contrasts within that single independent variable X’s range, i.e. they are not multiple independent variables of X R per se in some original multiple GLM.
Polyphosphate, Polyphosphatase and Stress Resistance of Knockout Mutants in the PPN1 and PPN2 Genes of Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Ledova Larisa , Kulakovskaya Tatiana , Ryazanova Lubov , Trilisenko Ludmila , Kulakovskaya Ekaterina , Tomashevsky Alexander
Published: January 2024

Yeast cells possess high levels of inorganic polyphosphate, which is involved in various processes regulating vital activities. In this work, using the commercially available Saccharomyces cerevisiae knockout mutants in the PPN1 and PPN2 genes encoding polyphosphatases, we have shown that each of the two single mutations leads to a set of similar physiological effects at the stationary stage of growth on glucose: the increased resistance to manganese and peroxide stresses, lack of polyphosphatase activity in mitochondria, and the increase in long-chained polyphosphate level. We suggest, that the increased stress resistance of ∆ppn1 and ∆ppn2 strains is associated with the increase in the level of long-chained polyphosphate. The cells of ∆ppn1 and ∆ppn2 mutants showed no significant differences in growth parameters in the media with ethanol or glucose compared to the parent strain. Earlier, we observed the inability to grow on non-fermentable carbon sources and mitochondrial defects in the ∆ppn1 mutant CRN constructed from another parent strain. The ∆ppn1 strain from the Dharmacon collection has no defects in mitochondria function. The data obtained provide evidence in favor of the participation of polyphosphates in stress adaptation of yeast cells.
Linking Academic Relevance and Achievement Motivation to Students’ Dishonesty. Original Research Brief Report
Authors: Koscielniak Maciej
Published: January 2024

Academic dishonesty among students is one of the major problems of academia worldwide, hindering the evaluation of educational outcomes and perpetuating harmful habits. The current study focuses on the role of academic relevance as an essential but often overlooked factor in promoting academic integrity. We hypothesized that students' belief in the practical application of their learning and its relevance to future careers would positively correlate with increased mastery motivation, leading to a decreased likelihood of engaging in dishonest behavior. The research sample included 235 students from various Polish universities, ranging in age from 18 to 51, providing a diverse demographic range. The study confirmed that academic relevance negatively predicts academic dishonesty through hierarchical regression and mediation analyses, with mastery motivation as a critical mediating factor. The findings are discussed with an emphasis on their practical implications, particularly in developing effective interventions to reduce academic dishonesty in the educational setting.
A Simple Scoring Scale for Predicting the Risk of Diabetic Retinopathy over 50 years old in China
Authors: Ge Qiwei , Zhang Yuyu , Liu Bihong , Sun Dajun , Liang Congkai , zhou Xiaoyi , Zhu Rongrong , Zhuang Xun
Published: January 2024

Purpose: To construct and evaluate a simple scoring scale for predicting the risk of diabetic retinopathy (DR) over 50 years old in China.
Methods: 1896 diagnosed patients over the age of 50 with diabetes were randomly selected and subjected to the epidemiological survey. According to the logistic regression analysis, the weights were assigned, and a simple scoring scale was constructed.
Results: The DR detection rate was 34.8 %. Analysis showed that family history of diabetes, diabetes treatment method, diabetes duration, and hemoglobin (Hb)A1c were independent DR risk factors. After excluding confounding factors and based on the β coefficient, the scale had a maximum score of 12 points. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.753, the cut-off value was 4, the sensitivity was 66.5 %.
Conclusions: The simple scale according to the logistic regression analysis had good sensitivity and the ability to identify DR patients.
Physicomechanical Properties of Resin-Based Pit and Fissure Sealants Reinforced with Rice Husk Derived Nano Silica and Nanohydroxyapatite
Authors:   Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic Sciences, College of Dentistry, King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Yassin Syed M ,   School of Dental Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia, Mohamad Dasmawati ,   School of Dental Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia, Togoo Rafi Ahmad ,   Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic Sciences, College of Dentistry, King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Sanusi Sarliza Yasmin ,   School of Dental Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia, Johari Yanti ,   School of Dental Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
Published: January 2024

Resin-based pit fissure sealants (RBS) are used to prevent occlusal caries in children. The success of RBS in preventing dental caries is largely influenced by its retention on the tooth surface, which is also affected by its physicomechanical properties. The physicomechanical properties of RBS can be enhanced through the addition of fillers. With the advent of nanofillers, the physicomechanical properties were improved without altering RBS flowability. The present study developed an RBS with a 70 wt% resin matrix and 30 wt% nanofillers. The resin matrix consisted of urethane dimethacrylate (55 wt%), triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (45 wt%), camphoroquinone (0.3 wt%), and 2-(dimethylamino) ethyl methacrylate (0.7 wt%). Silane-treated rice husk-derived nanosilica (20 wt%) and nanohydroxyapatite (10 wt%) were added as fillers. Clinpro, Fissurit FX, and an unfilled sealant were controls. All RBS were tested for surface roughness, Vickers hardness, flexural strength, and flowability. Statistical analysis with oneway ANOVA revealed significant differences between groups in surface roughness, hardness, flowability (p < 0.001), flexural strength, and flexural modulus (p < 0.05). Experimental sealants had higher flexural strength (78 MPa) and flow distance (29.05+1.16 mm) than commercial controls. However, the surface roughness of experimental sealants (0.25+0.08 µm) was higher than Clinpro (0.087+0.027 µm) but lesser than Fissurit FX (0.35+0.19 µm). The Vickers hardness of experimental sealants (23+1.63 VHN) was less than Fissurit FX (28.80+1.69 VHN) but higher than Clinpro (21.74+1.68 VHN). This novel RBS had physicomechanical properties comparable to commercial sealants. The use of nanosilica from rice husk makes this pit and fissure sealer sustainable and environmentally friendly in dentistry.
Textbook Evaluation: How does It Assist Intercultural Communicative Competence?
Authors: Novianti Sri , Wirza Yanty
Published: January 2024

Language learning is culture-bound, so culture should be included in the process of language teaching and learning. Using the framework proposed by Cortazzi and Jin (1999), this study evaluates the potential use of the textbook English on Sky to assist Intercultural Communicative Competence in Instruction as evidenced by the occurrence of three types of cultural elements: source culture, target culture, and international culture contained in the textbook. Conducted in Islamic boarding school context, this descriptive study collected data through a checklist from Cortazzi and Jin (1999), questionnaires distributed to students, and an interview conducted to an English teacher using the textbook. The findings reveal that the textbook contains all types of cultural elements represented in reading texts, dialogues, pictures, and tasks. Even though the occurrence of each is not balanced, English on Sky has potential to assist Intercultural Communicative Competence in Instruction since all types of cultures contained do not conflict with the value of the Islamic context. Pedagogically, teachers can use the textbook as the main source for teaching materials in Islamic schools so that students’ Intercultural Communicative Competence can be enhanced.
The Influence of Market Attractiveness and Unique Capability on Collaboration Strategy and Business Performance: A Study at Digital Creative Industry in Java
Authors: Lizardo Jimmy , Colline Fredella
Published: January 2024

The creative industry has been a fundamental part of the digital economy, but its profitability remained low, at less than 25% per year. Therefore, the research aimed to ascertain the impact of market attractiveness and unique capabilities on the collaboration strategy, along with their implications for the business performance of Java’s digital creative sector. The population was digital creative industry players in Java Island which focused on the Games, Education, Digital Music, Animation, Software, and Social Media sectors (GEMASS). The sample taken was 50 respondents from the total population as many as 106 legalized digital creative industry players who had been established for more than 3 years. Data were processed using Partial Least Square (PLS-SEM). The findings show that both market attractiveness and unique capability positively and significantly influence collaboration. Market attractiveness has no effect on business performance but has an indirect effect through collaboration strategy. Unique capability positively and significantly affect business performance both directly and indirectly through collaboration strategy. Collaboration strategy positively and significantly affect performance, which is greater than the direct effect of unique capability. Digital creative industry in Java Island are suggested to prioritize the implementation of collaboration strategy that is built with unique capability and consider the market attractiveness.
Social Media Adoption and SMEs Business Performance: Examining Entrepreneurship Orientation and Government Support Policies in Central Java
Authors: Novandari Weni , Gunawan Diah Setyorini , Bawono Icuk Rangga , Naufalin Rifda , Maryani Sri , Jajang Jajang , Sulasih Sulasih
Published: January 2024

The research analyzed the influence of social media adoption on SMEs’ business performance by examining the mediating role of entrepreneurship orientation and the moderating role of government support policies. The utilization of technology in business, including the adoption of social media, was significant in enhancing business performance. Previous research has shown that the adoption of social media by SMEs is a common phenomenon. However, limited SMEs have experienced a positive impact on their business performance despite adopting social media into their business operations. The research subjects consisted of 134 SMEs in Central Java that have integrated social media into their business operations. The respondents were selected using convenience sampling, and the SEM PLS method was employed as the analytical tool. This research succeeded in providing answers to the research gap, where entrepreneurship orientation mediated partially the effect of social media adoption on SMEs’ business performance. The result shows that government support policies do not moderate the effect of entrepreneurship orientation on business performance but have a direct positive effect on improving business performance. Theoretical and practical contributions are also made to the field of research concerning the interconnection of technology and marketing strategies.
MODELO DE INTERACCIÓN ENTRE VICUÑAS Y OVINOS EN LA RESERVA NACIONAL DE PAMPA GALERAS
Authors: Quispe Diana , Quispe Jesús
Published: January 2024

La puna constituye el hábitat de los camélidos sudamericanos, entre ellos resalta la vicuña que es el camélido silvestre más pequeño y de fibra fina. La Reserva Nacional de Pampa Galeras – Barbara D’Achille (RNPG) en Perú ha cobijado desde tiempos antiguos a las vicuñas, en este espacio las vicuñas coexisten con los animales domésticos. El objetivo de esta investigación fue analizar el efecto que genera la presencia de la población de ovinos sobre la estabilidad temporal de la población de vicuñas en la RNPG bajo el enfoque de la dinámica de sistemas. La metodología consistió en plantear un modelo socio-ecológico que considera las principales relaciones del ecosistema y se plantearon cuatro escenarios, el primero considera variaciones en las variables asociadas a los ovinos (consumo de alimento por los ovinos y tiempo de permanencia en la reserva) y tres escenarios considerando cambios en la precipitación (lluvias permanentes de diferente intensidad, lluvias con pulsos máximos y mínimos periódicos y lluvia aleatoria) utilizando el software Stella. Los resultados principales indican que la población de ovinos no tiene influencia directa en la población de vicuñas, pues el comportamiento de las vicuñas en todos los escenarios tiende a autorregularse en el tiempo (10 años). La población de ovinos muestra permanencia temporal en la RNPG; y su presencia se asocia inversamente a la época de lluvias, lo que sugiere que las familias campesinas acceden a la reserva para utilizar marginalmente los pastos en la época seca.
PROSPECCIÓN DE PROBLEMAS FITOSANITARIOS A LA COSECHA Y POSTCOSECHA DEL MANGO (Mangifera indica L.) EN EL VALLE DE YAUTÁN, PROVINCIA DE CASMA – ANCASH
Authors: Palomo Herrera Angel Alfonso , Cerna Rodriguez Mildrek Roxana , Ojeda Izquierdo Dayna Milene , Apaza Tapia Walter Eduardo
Published: January 2024

problemas fisiológicos que afectan la calidad del mango a la cosecha y postcosecha en el valle de Yaután, provincia de Casma, departamento de Áncash. Durante la campaña 2021-2022, se visitaron predios con cultivos de mango para observar problemas sanitarios, posteriormente a la cosecha se colectaron frutos de los sectores: Valdivia, Señor de los Milagros, Cerro Castillo, Acoshpampa, Canchapampa, Punchayhuaca, Liza alta, Lagar, Jaihua, y Matua, los cuales fueron llevados al Laboratorio de Fitopatología de la UNALM y se colocaron en cámaras húmedas a 21 °C durante 3 a 4 semanas para incentivar el desarrollo de posibles patógenos en postcosecha. En el campo, durante la floración, cuajado, crecimiento y desarrollo del fruto, el mango es afectado por la mosca de la fruta (Ceratitis sp., y Anastrepha sp.), oidiosis (Oidium mangiferae Berthet), trips y queresas, alterando el tamaño, forma, coloraciòn y “chapeado” del fruto, descartándolos como “fruta de exportaciòn”. Además, se encontraron frutos con “lenticelosis” como fisiopatía. En el laboratorio aparecieron síntomas en los frutos, analizándose y encontrándose los hongos: Lasiodiplodia theobromae (Pat.) Griffon & Maubl. (más recurrente en los análisis fitopatológicos) ocasionando pudrición a partir de la inserción peduncular para luego afectar todo el fruto, Alternaria alternata (Fr.:Fr.) Keissl. ocasionando puntos y manchas necróticas negras favorecidas por lenticelas abiertas que posteriormente a la madurez ocasionan pudrición del fruto, y Colletotrichum gloesporioides (Penz.) Penz. & Sacc. ocasionando manchas necróticas lagunares y pudrición del fruto. Otros hongos aislados a nivel de género fueron Fusicoccum sp. y Phomopsis sp. ocasionando síntomas similares a Lasiodiplodia.
METODOLOGÍA DE IDENTIFICACIÓN DE ÁREAS PRIORITARIAS PARA INTERVENCIONES DEL MECANISMO DE RETRIBUCIÓN POR SERVICIOS ECOSISTÉMICOS HÍDRICOS EN CIUDADES AMAZÓNICAS, PERÚ
Authors: Magán Julio , Vogl Adrian , Guevara Marcelo , Torres Marta , Fernández Luis , Pillaca Martín , Caballero Jorge , Acho Carmen
Published: January 2024

El servicio ecosistémico hídrico (SEH) se identifica como el principal servicio que se debe conservar, proteger y gestionar adecuadamente para asegurar su calidad, cantidad y disposición. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue desarrollar una propuesta metodológica para la identificación de los Mecanismos de Retribución por Servicios Ecosistémicos Hídricos (MERESE-H) en el departamento de Madre de Dios, Perú. Se procedió a desarrollar talleres con actores locales claves, para la identificación de actividades humanas actuales que ocasionan cambios de uso de suelo en el área de estudio. Adicionalmente se desarrolló un estudio diagnóstico a nivel socio económico para conocer la situación del servicio de saneamiento de los operadores de agua en las áreas rurales y pequeñas ciudades en la Amazonía de Madre de Dios. Como secuencia metodológica, se utilizó la herramienta “Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs” (InVEST) para calcular el Índice de Servicio Hidrológico (ISH) para las cuencas priorizadas, mostrando el estado actual de sus servicios hídricos. Estos datos fueron usados para contrastar la problemática de administración de operación y el mantenimiento del servicio junto a las deficiencias proyectadas del ISH de las cuencas en estudio; resultando en una seria deficiencia en el servicio a nivel de calidad y cantidad de agua para su uso adecuado como servicio básico. Finalmente, con la metodología propuesta, se han identificado cinco sitios que cumplen con los criterios para un adecuado diseño, implementación y gestión de un MERESE-H. Este resultado se visualiza en una tabla “semáforo” para la intervenciòn en un corto y mediano plazo en áreas rurales y pequeñas ciudades amazónicas. La herramienta InVEST, como parte del proceso de valoración, es recomendada para la evaluación de los servicios hidrológicos de las microcuencas a trabajar; pero para obtener resultados más cercanos a la realidad, es necesario contar con datos actualizados, principalmente sobre el uso de suelo y climatológicos (precipitación y evapotranspiración).
VALORACIÓN ECONÓMICA DE MEJORAS EN TURISMO Y CONSERVACIÓN EN UN ÁREA NATURAL PROTEGIDA DE CUSCO, PERÚ
Authors: Ortíz de Orué Haydee , Alarcón-Novoa Jorge
Published: January 2024

En el Perú, Choquequirao es un antiguo complejo arqueológico Inca, considerado un tipo de Área Natural Protegida (ANP), semejante al complejo arqueológico “Machu Picchu”. A pesar de recientes mejoramientos, el ANP todavía adolece de ser un atractivo turístico importante. En este estudio se utilizó un modelo “Logit multinomial ordenado”, fundamentado en la teoría económica de “Análisis Conjunto”, que permitió obtener una Disposición a Pagar (DAP) de US$ 11.5 por turista, adicionales a la tarifa actual de ingreso. Asimismo, se estimó recaudar un total de US$ 80 718.5 anuales, lo que podría coadyuvar al cumplimiento de objetivos estratégicos de conservación y turismo del ANP.
ANÁLISIS DE LA PARTICIPACIÓN CIUDADANA EN LA CONSERVACIÓN DE LOS SERVICIOS ECOSISTÉMICOS DE LOS BOFEDALES UBICADOS EN LA SUB CUENCA SANTA EULALIA EN LIMA
Authors: Limo Segura Alberto
Published: January 2024

El objetivo de la investigación fue analizar la participación ciudadana en la conservación de los servicios ecosistémicos de los bofedales (un tipo de humedal andino) en Lima, teniendo en cuenta al Principio 10 de las Naciones Unidas sobre medio ambiente y desarrollo, referido al acceso a información, toma de decisiones y justicia. Este principio debe servir de guía a las políticas que se desarrollan sobre participación ciudadana ambiental. Se trata de un análisis cualitativo motivado por la problemática de extracción de turba y la necesidad de reforzar las capacidades individuales, institucionales y sistémicas. Incluye entrevistas a actores claves a nivel local, regional y nacional, así como una revisión bibliográfica, documental y normativa. Sobre la base de determinados indicadores se tuvo como resultado que dicha participación es ineficiente, ineficaz y no acorde a dicho Principio. No obstante, se destaca el potencial del Mecanismo de Retribución por Servicios Ecosistémicos Hídricos del sector agua y saneamiento para promover la mencionada participación de manera institucionalizada en el Consejo de Recursos Hídricos de Cuenca y el Sistema Nacional de Gestión Ambiental. De este modo, se busca aportar a la ecología destacando las relaciones humanas sobre un determinado ecosistema y contribuir a la mejora continua de la gestión ambiental.
Peningkatan Pemahaman Dongeng Anak Tunarungu melalui Simulation Based Learning
Authors: Handayani Endang Sri
Published: January 2024

The research aims to determine the influence of application simulation based learning toward understanding of fairy tale for children with hearing impairment in third grade at SLB-B YRTRW Surakarta 2016/2017 academic year. This research uses a quantitative approach to research methods of experimental type of pre-experimental form one group pretest-posttest design. Subjek in this research were students in third grade at SLB-B YRTRW Surakarta 2016/2017 academic year as many as four students. Data collection techniques in this research is an objective test in multiple choice. Data analysis techniques in this research is the analysis of non-parametric Wilcoxon Signed Rank test (Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test) using SPSS versi 22. From the result of calculations using SPSS versi 22, the known value of the average posttest research sample increased. Descriptive analysis result obtained by the average value of 77,5 posttest greater than the value pretest 57,5. Non-parametric analysis result obtained count value Z= -2,000 with Asymp. Sig. (2-tailed) = 0,046 at significance level (Î±) of 5%. Based on the results of data analysis can be concluded that effect of application simulation based learning is positive toward understanding of fairy tale for children with hearing impairment in third grade at SLB-B YRTRW Surakarta 2016/2017 academic year.
An Analysis of Spatial Patterns of Disabled Persons in West Bengal
Authors: Islam MD Monirul
Published: January 2024

In this paper an attempt has been made to observe the spatial patterns of disabled persons by sex and residence in and across the districts of West Bengal. The research paper is exclusively based on secondary sources of data which have been taken from Census of India publications, New Delhi. Advanced statistical techniques have been used to analyze the data. Apart from, advanced cartographic techniques and GIS-MapInfo has also been used to visual representation of the data. The study reveals that disabled persons are highly concentrated in southern part of the state while, central part and a little area of northern part have the lower concentration. There is an enormous regional variation in the distributional patterns of male-female and rural-urban areas of the state. The study also examined the probable association between disability and selected socio-economic variables and it is observed that several variables are significantly associated with disability.
Respon Pertumbuhan Dan Hasil Bawang Merah (Allium Ascalonicum L.) Terhadap Pemberian Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) Dan Pupuk Kandang Sapi
Authors: Tripandi Ivan , Aini Nurul
Published: January 2024

Bawang merah (Allium ascalonicum L.) merupakan salah satu tanaman hortikultura yang tergolong dalam tanaman sayuran. Bawang merah sangat tergantung pada pupuk anorganik yang memberikan hasil yang tinggi namun banyak menimbulkan masalah dan menurunkan produktivitas lahan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui interaksi antara konsentrasi PGPR dan dosis pupuk kandang sapi terhadap pertumbuhan dan hasil bawang merah. Penelitian ini dilakukan pada bulan januari-maret 2023 di Desa Mlorah, Kecamatan Rejoso, Kabupaten Ngajuk, Provinsi Jawa Timur. Penelitian ini menggunakan Rancangan Acak Kelompok (RAK) Faktorial yang terdari Faktor 1 yaitu konsentrasi PGPR (P) dengan 3 taraf: P0 = Kontrol, P1 = PGPR 15 ml l-1, P2 = PGPR 30 ml l-1. Faktor ke 2 adalah pemberian pupuk kandang sapi (K) terdiri dari 4 taraf yaitu: K0 = Kontrol, K1 = 10 ton ha-1, K2 = 20 ton ha-1, K3 = 30 ton ha-1. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan tidak terdapat interaksi antara konsentrasi PGPR dan dosis pupuk kandang sapi terhadap semua parameter pengamatan. Konsentrasi PGPR 30 ml l-1 mampu meningkatkan panjang tanaman, jumlah daun saat 42 HST dengan persentasi kenaikan mencapai 10%-20%, diameter umbi, bobot segar umbi dan bobot kering umbi per rumpun dan per hektar memiliki hasil tinggi dengan persentasi kenaikan sebesar 20%-40% dibandingkan perlakuan lainnya. Pupuk kandang sapi 20 ton ha-1 mampu meningkatkan panjang tanaman, jumlah daun dan, jumlah anakan pada 42 HST dengan persentasi kenaikan 15%-20%, diameter umbi, jumlah anakan bobot segar umbi dan bobot kering umbi per rumpun dan per hektar memiliki hasil yang tinggi dengan persentasi kenaikan mencapai 25%-40% dibandingkan perlakuan kontrol.
Banking sector development and financial performance of small and medium enterprises in Mogadishu, Somalia
Authors:   Faculty of Management Science, Simad University, Mogadishu, Somalia, Abdi Abdikarin Ahmed , Hussein Fatima Mohamed ,   Faculty of Management Science, Simad University, Mogadishu, Somalia, Shahar Hanita Bint Kadir ,   School of Economics, Finance and Banking, University Utara Malaysia, Kedah, Malaysia
Published: January 2024

This study attempts to establish the relationship between banking sector development and the financial performance of small and medium enterprises in Mogadishu, Somalia. Financial intermediation theory is adopted to explain this relationship. The study adopted a correlational research design with 55 SMEs operating in Mogadishu city, Somalia. These SMEs were purposively selected. The study adopted a census, and thus, all the SMEs were included in the analysis. Due to the unavailability of secondary data in Somalia, the study relied on primary data, for which questionnaires were carefully designed using the existing scales and available literature. This questionnaire was then administered to the respondents who shared their responses and were analyzed. Before collecting information from the respondents, the study adopted the questionnaire in the pilot testing stage to ensure that it was reliable and valid. The main analysis for this study includes means and standard deviations (descriptive statistics) and correlation and regression analysis. The results were that access to credit (p<0.05), bank deposits (p<0.05), and customer savings (p<0.05) were all significant predictors of increase in profits and stability of sales. The study concludes that banking sector development is a significant predictor of the financial performance of small and medium enterprises.
Food Insecurity, Cardiometabolic Risk and Cardiovascular Disease: A Narrative Review and Call for Action
Authors: Saha Satchit Anand , Williams Katelyn Ann , Murphy George , Saha Sandeep Ajoy
Published: January 2024

Food insecurity and insufficient access to affordable nutrition have been associated with increased risk for the development of multiple chronic medical conditions, including cardiovascular disease. In this narrative review, we explore the association between food insecurity and the development of chronic medical conditions that confer increased cardiometabolic risk, cardiovascular disease, and mortality. We also identify the various barriers leading to food insecurity and lack of food literacy, with an emphasis on patients with high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus, stroke, congestive heart failure, and coronary heart disease. We discuss recent developments in legislation and public policies and programs designed to expand our understanding and reduce food insecurity at the local, regional, national, and international levels, and identify opportunities for future research and innovation.
Neuroprotective Effects and Cognitive Enhancement of Allomargaritarine in 5xFAD Alzheimer's Disease Mice Model
Authors: Aleksandrova Yulia , Semakov Alexey , Tsypyshev Dmitry , Chaprov Kirill , Klochkov Sergey , Neganova Margarita
Published: January 2024

Here, we report the results of an investigation of the neuroprotective effects of securinine with tryptamine conjugate-allomargaritarine (2b), previously selected as the leading compound among a wide range of natural derivatives. 2b was synthesized from securinine using various Lewis acids as catalysts. In addition to the antioxidant and cytoprotective properties previously shown for 2b, in this work, in vitro analysis of the biological activity of the compound demonstrated that this conjugate is also able to influence the primary pathogenetic mechanism of Alzheimer's disease - proteinopathy, modulating the homeostasis of β-amyloid peptide. In particular, it was found that 2b is an effective inhibitor of β-secretase 1 - an enzyme responsible for initiating the generation of pathological forms of β-amyloid peptide, as well as directly preventing the pathological aggregation of Aβ1-42. As a compound with a promising biological activity profile found in vitro, 2b has also demonstrated excellent neuroprotective effects on the in vivo 5xFAD Alzheimer's disease transgenic mice model. Thus, 2b effectively restored cognitive dysfunction: short-term and long-term episodic and spatial memory, which in the post-mortem studies was also accompanied by a decrease in the number of amyloid deposits and the intensity of oxidative stress in brain samples. These results provide an opportunity to draw a line under years of research on the neuroprotective potential of 2b as a viable therapy for Alzheimer's disease.
The Role of Social Media in Knowledge, Perceptions, and Self-Reported Adherence Toward COVID-19 Prevention Guidelines: Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Garrett Camryn , Qiao Shan , Li Xiaoming
Published: January 2024

Background

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, social media has served as a channel of communication, a venue for entertainment, and a mechanism for information dissemination.

Objective

This study aims to assess the associations between social media use patterns; demographics; and knowledge, perceptions, and self-reported adherence toward COVID-19 prevention guidelines, due to growing and evolving social media use.

Methods

Quota-sampled data were collected through a web-based survey of US adults through the Qualtrics platform, from March 15, 2022, to March 23, 2022, to assess covariates (eg, demographics, vaccination, and political affiliation), frequency of social media use, social media sources of COVID-19 information, as well as knowledge, perceptions, and self-reported adherence toward COVID-19 prevention guidelines. Three linear regression models were used for data analysis.

Results

A total of 1043 participants responded to the survey, with an average age of 45.3 years, among which 49.61% (n=515) of participants were men, 66.79% (n=696) were White, 11.61% (n=121) were Black or African American, 13.15% (n=137) were Hispanic or Latino, 37.71% (n=382) were Democrat, 30.21% (n=306) were Republican, and 25% (n=260) were not vaccinated. After controlling for covariates, users of TikTok (β=–.29, 95% CI –0.58 to –0.004; P=.047) were associated with lower knowledge of COVID-19 guidelines, users of Instagram (β=–.40, 95% CI –0.68 to –0.12; P=.005) and Twitter (β=–.33, 95% CI –0.58 to –0.08; P=.01) were associated with perceiving guidelines as strict, and users of Facebook (β=–.23, 95% CI –0.42 to –0.043; P=.02) and TikTok (β=–.25, 95% CI –0.5 to -0.009; P=.04) were associated with lower adherence to the guidelines (R2 0.06-0.23).

Conclusions

These results allude to the complex interactions between online and physical environments. Future interventions should be tailored to subpopulations based on their demographics and social media site use. Efforts to mitigate misinformation and implement digital public health policy must account for the impact of the digital landscape on knowledge, perceptions, and level of adherence toward prevention guidelines for effective pandemic control.