bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peran Penyuluh Terhadap Partisipasi Belajar Kelompok Tani di Sekolah Lapang Pengelolaan Tanaman Terpadu (SL-PTT) Kelurahan Baratan Kecamatan Patrang Kabupaten Jember
Authors: Nadhiroh Annisa Retno , Hendrawijaya Arief Tukiman , Himmah Irliana Faiqotul
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this research is to describe the role of extension worker on farmer group learning participation in the Sekolah Lapang Pengelolaan Tanaman Terpadu (SL-PTT) Baratan Village, Patrang District, Jember Regency. This research is a qualitative descriptive research. The technique of determining the informants used the snowball sampling technique, with informants from learning citizens, extension workers and farmer group administrators. The technique of validating research data is using extended observations, increasing persistence and triangulation of sources and techniques. The data analysis technique uses the Miles and Huberman model with the steps of collecting data, reducing data, presenting data and drawing conclusions. The results of the study show that the extension workers carry out their roles as educators, motivators and communicators well in learning at the Sekolah Lapang Pengelolaan Tanaman Terpadu (SL-PTT) Baratan Village, Patrang District, Jember Regency. Extension workers are able to provide guidance, deliver material and provide solutions to problems experienced by learning citizens.
Pengelolaan Program Bimbingan Belajar Cerdas Berprestasi Kutabumi Kabupaten Tangerang
Authors: Murtifalaah Innar Restyan , Hoerniasih Nia , Meilya Ika Rizqi
Published: September 2023

Efektivitas pengelolaan program bimbingan belajar merupakan rangkaian kegiatan yang memiliki keterkaitan secara bertahap dan ditujukan untuk mencapai tujuan. Penelitian ini bertujuan­ untuk mendeskripsikan tentang kegiatan perencanaan, pengorganisasian, penggerakan dan pengawasan program bimbingan belajar di Cerdas Berpretasi. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode deskriptif kualitatif. Dan yang menjadi subjek dalam penelitian adalah satu orang pengelola dan satu orang pendidik. Teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan yaitu wawancara, observasi, dan dokumentasi. Dan pemaparan hasil penelitian dijelaskan sebagai berikut: (1) Perencanaan progam yang dilakukan adalah menentukan tujuan, mengidentifikasi pendidik, mengidentifikasi kebutuhan sasaran. (2) Pengorganisasian program yang dilakukan adalah membuat struktur organisasi, pemberian tanggung jawab sesuai dengan latar belakang pendidikan para pendidik, serta mengelola sarana prasarana agar menunjang menunjang proses pembelajaran. (3) Penggerakan program yang dilakukan adalah pengelola selaku pihak yang bertanggung jawab dalam mengelola­ program secara menyeluruh memberi arahan kepada para pendidik dalam melaksanakan proram bimbingan belajar. (4) Pengawasan yang dilakukan adalah memastikan peserta didik dapat mengimplementasikan materi seletah mengikuti program bimbel dengan_evaluasi tertulis memastikan tujuan program sudah terlaksana.
Faktor yang Memengaruhi Perilaku Masyarakat Membuang Sampah ke Sungai di Desa Kota Baru Kecamatan Lubai Muara Enim
Authors: Saputra Rio Julius , Shomedran Shomedran
Published: September 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui faktor yang memengaruhi perilaku masyarakat membuang sampah ke sungai di Desa Kota Baru Kecamatan Lubai Muara Enim. Penelitian ini menggunakan jenis penelitian deskriptif dengan pendekatan kualitatif. Teknik pengumpulan data yaitu wawancara, observasi dan dokumentasi dengan subjek penelitian berjumlah tujuh orang. Adapun hasil penelitian, yaitu; 1) masyarakat sudah memiliki pengetahuan mengenai dampak lingkungan akan tetapi masih terjadi membuang sampah ke sungai; 2) kepedulian masyarakat terhadap lingkungan sudah cukup baik, terbukti ketika masyarakat membuang sampah sembarangan, maka timbullah rasa bersalah atas perbuatannya tersebut; 3) adapun tindakan yang dilakukan masyarakat dan pemerintah Desa Kota Baru dalam meminimalisir pencemaran dari sampah dengan cara bergotong-royong dan mengolah sampah menjadi kerajinan; 4) di Desa Kota Baru belum disediakan fasilitas kebersihan, dengan alasan belum mendapatkan pendanaan dari pemerintah setempat; 5) kurangnya kesadaran masyarakat dan belum disediakan fasilitas kebersihan, sehingga kebiasaan membuang sampah sembarangan terus berlangsung; 6) lemahnya peran dari pemerintah desa dalam penerapan peraturan dan pemberian sosialisasi kepada masyarakat terkait dengan kebersihan lingkungan.Uraian tersebut menggambarkan bahwa masyarakat Desa Kota Baru masih membuang sampah ke sungai dengan berbagai faktor tersebut.
Determination of Loss Macro Nutrient (N, P And K) Carrying Out The Harvest of Arabika Coffee Fruits (Coffea Arabica) In Five Locations of Situbondo Coffee Farmers
Authors: Wulanjari Distiana , Rosyady Muhammad Ghufron , Felda Afrizal Putra  , Ketut Anom Wijaya  , Hasbi Mubarak Suud  , Oria Alit Farisi
Published: October 2023

The coffee plant (Coffea sp.) is one of the plantation commodity crops that has been developed since the Dutch colonial era. The productivity of Arabica coffee from people's fields is equal to 0.48 tons/ha while the company's Arabica coffee plantations 0.71 tons/ha. Low productivity is one of them caused by fertilization that is not in accordance with the needs of coffee plants. So, it is necessary to know the nutrient content of N, P and K in each plantation. The content of N, P and K nutrients can be determined through the development of fertilization methods based on the loss of N, P and K nutrients carried by the harvested coffee cherries. The aim of this research is to find out of N, P and K nutrients are carried by Arabica coffee berries. The treatment was carried out at 5 different coffee fields locations and an analysis of the N, P, and K nutrient content of the harvested coffee cherries was carried out. The results showed that the nutrients N, P, and K carried by the coffee cherries were different in each plantation. Soil Analysis results on pH (bit acid) and Total Nutrient Content N (low), P (moderate – very high), and K  (low) in the soil of each field. The variables for observing the weight of sun-dried coffee beans and skins and the weight of oven-dried coffee beans and skins were significantly different in each plantation. Conclusions from this research, a). The total N, P, and K contained in 1 kg of fresh coffee fruit is 24.71 g N; 8.66 g P and 39.08 g K. b). The total N, P, and K contained in 1 kg of dry coffee beans is 74.3 g N; 26.1 g P and 117.5 ​​g K.
Analysis of The Need for Green Open Spaces in Reducing CO2 Carbon Dioxide Emissions in the Bahteramas Hospital Area of Southeast Sulawesi Province
Authors: Aindo Nur Rezki , Indriyani Lies , Manan Abdul , Gandri La , Sahindomi Bana
Published: October 2023

This study aims to determine CO2 emissions resulting from transportation sources, residents, electricity and the ability   of green open spaces (RTH) to reduce CO2 gas emissions in the Bahteramas Hospital Area. This research was conducted in December 2022-January 2023 at Bahteramas Baruga Hospital, Kendari City, Southeast Sulawesi Province. The results showed that the highest CO2 emission load was generated from the use of electricity with a total of 54,119 kg/day, then population emissions were 4,933 kg/day, while the lowest emission load was generated from CO2 transportation emissions of 4,437 kg/day. The total emission generated in the Bahteramas Hospital Area is 63,489 kg /day. The ability   of green open space to reduce CO2 emissions is 8,399 kg/day so that it still has residual CO2 emissions that have not been able to be absorbed by the existing green open space of 55,090 kg/ day.
Intervenção em compreensão de leitura e funções executivas
Authors: Corso Helena Vellinho , Assis Évelin Fulginiti de , Lopes-Silva Júlia Beatriz , Piccolo Luciane da Rosa
Published: October 2023

Este estudo investigou o impacto de um programa de leitura com eficácia demonstrada para o aprimoramento da habilidade de compreensão leitora (CL) e de funções executivas (FE) em resoluções de problemas quantitativos (RP). Estudantes do 5º ano do Ensino Fundamental de duas escolas públicas foram distribuídos em duas classes controle (GC; n=35) e duas experimentais (GE; n=29). A professora das classes experimentais recebeu treinamento para implementar o programa, composto por uma seleção de textos narrativos e atividades voltadas ao desenvolvimento da CL e das FE. Foram realizadas avaliações pré e pós-intervenção de desempenho em problemas de raciocínio quantitativo. Comparados ao GC, participantes do GE apresentaram escores mais altos em problemas de raciocínio quantitativo, de maneira geral, e, particularmente, nos de raciocínio multiplicativo, com tamanhos de efeito moderados (d de Cohen = 0,69 e d=0,52, respectivamente). Análises exploratórias da força de associação entre RP e CL e RP e FE demonstraram correlações moderadas a fortes entre as medidas de RP e várias medidas de CL, além de correlações entre raciocínio aditivo e atenção auditiva e memória de trabalho (componente fonológico e executivo central). Como implicação educacional, destaca-se a relevância do trabalho com a compreensão de leitura também no ensino de matemática, visto o favorecimento da habilidade de RP por meio da intervenção voltada à CL e às FE.
Studi Literatur: Intensi Konsumsi Sugar-Sweetened Beverages Ditinjau dari Prediktor Theory of Planned Behavior
Authors: Buwana Aphrodita Cahya
Published: October 2023

Indonesia menempati posisi tertinggi ketiga dalam konsumsi sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) di Asia Tenggara, dengan jumlah 20,23 liter/orang setiap tahunnya. Di Indonesia, SSB dikonsumsi setidaknya sekali dalam satu minggu oleh 62% anak-anak, 72% remaja, dan 61% dewasa. SSB merupakan jenis minuman yang mengandung pemanis berkalori, seperti minuman berkarbonasi (soda), minuman energi, teh manis, sport drink, dan minuman rasa buah. SSB digemari oleh banyak orang karena beberapa faktor, seperti faktor ekonomi, faktor sosial, serta faktor psikologis. Konsumsi SSB mengandung faktor risiko, baik secara fisik maupun psikologis. Salah satu model dan teori perilaku sehat yang dapat menjelaskan intensi individu pada suatu perilaku, khususnya dalam konteks penelitian ini, yaitu konsumsi SSB pada individu muda adalah Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). Oleh karena itu, penulis hendak melakukan telaah literatur secara naratif sebelum melakukan penelitian lebih lanjut.
Keterkaitan Pola Asuh Autoritatif dan Harapan Lulus Tepat Waktu terhadap Kegigihan Akademik Mahasiswa Beasiswa
Authors: Rohadhatul Aisy Fella , Pramono Ridwan Budi
Published: October 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui hubungan pola asuh autoritatif dan harapan lulus tepat waktu terhadap kegigihan akademik mahasiswa penerima beasiswa penuh. Dilakukan pada 87 mahasiswa S1 penerima beasiswa penuh yang dipilih berdasarkan teknik purposive sampling. Instrumen penelitian menggunakan skala kegigihan akademik, pola asuh autoritatif, dan harapan lulus tepat waktu. Temuan menunjukkan korelasi yang kuat (p = 0.000; R = 0.771; R2 = 0.595) antara pola asuh autoritatif, harapan lulus tepat waktu, dan kegigihan akademik dengan sumbangan efektif sebesar 59.5%. Hasil hipotesis minor menunjukkan hubungan positif yang sangat signifikan antara pola asuh autoritatif dan kegigihan akademik (R = 0.576, p < 0.01), serta hubungan positif yang sangat signifikan antara harapan lulus tepat waktu dan kegigihan akademik (R = 0.733, p < 0.01). Berdasarkan hasil penelitian dapat disimpulkan bahwa antara ketiga variabel memiliki hubungan positif yang sangat signifikan.
Economic and Environmental Outcomes of Plastic Bags Ban: A Case Study of Sonipat City
Authors: Rani Amita
Published: September 2023

Plastic bag is one of the various miracles but a controversial invention of the 20th Century. Worldwatch Institute (2017) estimated that 4-5 trillion plastic bags are consumed annually across the world, appreciated for contributing to the medical field, hygienic food packaging and reducing packing costs in many industries. But during the 21st Century, disposal of waste created by plastic bags posed a complicated problem as only 1 per cent of bags are recycled. Research revealed that the waste created by poly bags deposited in the oceans, urban drainage, and agricultural soil damages our ecosystem. Accumulation of plastic on soil, water and air for a long time works as the entry point for carcinogenic toxins in the food chain and harms flora and fauna rigorously. Whereas some policies devised to ban plastic bags ended up adversely impacting customers and businesses.
India, with the use of 14 million plastic annually, faces the problem of plastic pollution due to the lack of an organised plastic recycling system. To combat this problem, the Indian Government came up with Plastic Waste Management Rule 2016. It passed a resolution to ban single-use plastic manufacturing, trade, and utilisation from July 2022. The present study is an attempt to analyse and evaluate the pros and cons of the plastic ban policy in the context of environmental and economic outcomes in Sonipat city. Quantitative and qualitative techniques are applied to the primary data collected from the field survey. Based on the study’s findings, suggestions have been given to face the challenge of banning plastic bags in Sonipat city.
Comparative analysis of COVID-19 response measures and their impact on mortality rate
Authors: Konishi Tomokazu
Published: October 2023

(1) Background: The COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected worldwide, with varying responses implemented to control its spread. This study aimed to compare the epidemic data compiled by the World Health (2) Methods: Organization to understand the impact of the measures adopted by each country on the mortality rate. The increase or decrease in the number of confirmed cases was understood in logarithmic terms, for which logarithmic growth rates “K” were used. The mortality rate was calculated as the percentage of deaths from the confirmed cases, which was also used for logarithmic comparison. (3) Results: Countries that effectively detected and isolated patients had a mortality rate 10 times lower than those that did not. Although strict lockdowns were once effective, they could not be implemented on an ongoing basis. In fact, after their cancelation, large outbreaks occurred because of medical breakdowns. The virus variants mutated with increased infectivity, which impeded the measures that were once effective, including vaccinations. Although the designs of mRNA vaccines were renewed, they could not keep up with the virus mutation rate. The only effective defence was steadily identifying and isolating patients. (4) Conclusions: These findings have crucial implications for the complete containment of the pandemic and future pandemic preparedness.
RC Electrical Modelling of Black Hole. New Method to Calculate the Amount of Dark Matter and the Rotation Speed Curves in Galaxies
Authors: Flores Hector Gerardo , Gonçalves de Souza Maria Isabel
Published: September 2023

Here we mathematically model black holes following dynamics similar to RC electrical model, focusing on their similarities at the singularity. We use this mathematically modelling to hypothesize the origin and growth of a black Hole. Or model consists of several steps defined by: (1) the formation of a black hole following general relativity equations; (2) growth of the black hole modelled as a resistance-capacitance-like electrical circuit. Based on the mathematical modeling of a black hole following dynamics similar to an RC circuit, for a circular motion with constant acceleration, in which the condition is fulfilled, Vt = ω r, we are going to calculate the amount of dark matter in the Milky Way galaxies and the Andromeda galaxy and subsequently the rotation curve of both galaxies to compare them with observed or measured values.
Snapshot of the Phylogenetic Relationships among Avian Pox-Viruses Circulating in Portugal between 2017 and 2023
Authors: Santos Daniela , Fagulha Teresa , Duarte Margarida Dias , Duarte Ana , Ramos Fernanda , Barros Sílvia C , Luís Tiago , Henriques Ana Margarida
Published: September 2023

Avipoxvirus (APV), a linear dsDNA virus belonging to the subfamily Chordopoxvirinae of the family Poxviridae, infects more than 278 species of domestic and wild birds. It is responsible for causing the avian pox disease, which is characterized by its cutaneous and diphtheric forms. With a high transmission capacity, it can cause high economic losses and damage to the ecosys-tem. Several diagnostic methods are available and vaccination of birds can be an effective pre-ventive measure. To update the molecular characterization and phylogenetic analysis of viruses isolated in Portugal between 2017 and 2023, ten APV-positive samples were analyzed. A P4b gene fragment was amplified by PCR and the nucleotide sequence of the amplicons was deter-mined by Sanger sequencing. The sequences obtained were aligned using ClustalW, and a max-imum likelihood phylogenetic tree was constructed. With this study, it was possible to verify that the analyzed sequences are distributed in subclades A1, A2, B1, and B3. Since some of them are quite similar to others from different countries and obtained in different years, it is possible to conclude that there have been several viral introductions in Portugal. Finally, it was possible to successfully update the data on avipoxviruses in Portugal.
Jarin-1, an inhibitor of JA-Ile biosynthesis in Arabidopsis thaliana, acts differently in other plant species
Authors: Zeng Ming , Krajinski Franziska , van Dam Nicole , Hause Bettina
Published: October 2023

Jasmonates (JAs), including jasmonic acid (JA) and its biologically active derivative JA-Ile, are lipid-derived plant signalling molecules. They govern plant responses to stresses, such as wounding and insect herbivory. Wounding elicits a rapid increase of JA and JA-Ile levels as well as the expression of JAR1, coding for the enzyme involved in JA-Ile biosynthesis. Endogenous increase and application of JAs, such as MeJA, a JA methylester, result in increased defence levels, often accompanied by diminished growth. The function of jarin-1 in Arabidopsis thaliana was assessed. To investigate whether jarin-1 does function similarly in other plants, we tested this in Medicago truncatula, Solanum lycopersicum, and Brassica nigra seedlings in a root growth inhibition assay. Application of jarin-1 alleviated the inhibition of root growth after MeJA application in M. truncatula seedlings, proving that jarin-1 is biologically active in M. truncatula. Jarin-1 did not show, however, a similar effect in S. lycopersicum and B. nigra seedlings treated with MeJA. Even JA-Ile levels were not affected by application of jarin-1 in wounded leaf disks from S. lycopersicum. Based on these results, we conclude that the effect of jarin-1 is highly species-specific. Researchers intending to use jarin-1 for studying the function of JAR1 or JA-Ile in their model plants, must test its functionality before use.
Understanding the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Hand Hygiene, Wearing Mask, and Social Distancing among the Public Hospital and Polyclinic Nurses in Barbados Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Gaur Uma , Sealy Wendy , Bharatha Ambadasu , Sobers Natasha P. , Krishnamurthy Kandamaran , Campbell Michael H. , Cumberbatch Cara , Drakes Maia , Gibbs Marielle , Alexander Charisse , Harewood Heather , Adams Peter , Gupta Subir , Parsa Ali Davod , Kabir Russell , Majumder Md Anwarul Azim
Published: September 2023

Background: Nurses are essential members of the healthcare workforce and were among the first line carers for patients in community and hospital settings during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, they were at a heightened risk of contracting the disease, resulting in a significant number of reported deaths among them. Several preventive measures were adopted to contain the spread of this potentially lethal virus. This study aims to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of nurses regarding hand hygiene, mask wearing, and social distancing measures in healthcare settings in Barbados during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Method: An online survey of nurses working in public hospitals and polyclinics (public primary care clinics) of Barbados from December 2020 to July 2021, was conducted. Participants completed a questionnaire capturing socio-demographic information and knowledge and practices related to hand hygiene, using face masks, and social distancing . Each correct response received one mark. Overall knowledge scores were categorized as poor (<60%), average (60-80%), or good (>80-100%).
Results: Of 192 participants, the majority were female (82.8%) and had >5 years of experience (82%). Findings revealed that 45.8% had poor knowledge of hand hygiene, and the knowledge of 43.8% of respondents was average. Multivariable logistic regression showed that, after adjustment for age and gender, registered nurses had 2.1 times increased odds (95% CI 1.0, 4.2) of having good knowledge compared to other nursing categories. Regarding mask-wearing, 53.6% of nurses had average and 27.1% had good knowledge. Multivariable logistic regression showed that, after adjustment for age and gender, registered nurses had 3.3 times increased odds (95% CI 1.5, 7.4) of having good knowledge compared to nursing assistants. 68.6% of respondents followed the correct steps of handwashing every time, and 98.3% wore a mask in public places. More than half of the nurses (51.2%) kept a safe distance from others to avoid spreading SARS-CoV-2; one-third were in a crowded place(s) in the past three months, and 55.8% usually followed guidelines for social isolation as recommended by WHO.
Conclusion: The study identified knowledge deficiencies related to hand hygiene and wearing masks among nurses. It is imperative to provide additional training on infection control measures.
Postbiotics- Functional Food Materials
Authors: Gurunathan Sangiliyandi , Thangaraj Praheep , Kim Jin Hoi
Published: September 2023

Postbiotics are biologically active probiotic microorganisms that have produced non-viable bacterial products in the host. Eating a diet high in probiotic and prebiotic foods may help to ensure that the gut has an appropriate supply of these essential nutrients because postbiotics are produced when probiotics feed on prebiotics. Cell wall components and metabolites produced by living bacteria that have positive effects on the host are referred to as postbiotics. Postbiotics are functional bioactive chemicals that are produced in a matrix during anaerobic fermentation of organic nutrients like prebiotics. Postbiotics are low molecular weight soluble chemicals that are either produced after microbial cell lysis or secreted by live microflora as byproducts of this metabolic process. In general, the producer strains from bacterial and fungal species such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Streptococcus, Akkermansia muciniphila, Saccharomyces boulardii, Eubacterium hallii, Faecalibacterium, etc. When handling and selling food items in an industrial setting, postbiotics can be used as functional components in foods, which has a number of advantages, including the potential to be added to some foods that are known to be harmful to probiotic survival. Postbiotic supplements have grown in popularity among customers because of their numerous health advantages, particularly food, cosmetic, and healthcare industries. Classification of postbiotics depends on various factors including type of microorganism, structural composition, and physiological functions. This review presents a succinct introduction, history, and concept of postbiotics, the salient features of postbiotics, classification, production, purification, characterization, biological functions, and applications of postbiotics in the food industry.
Additive manufacturing of High Entropy Alloys: Trends, challenges and future perspectives
Authors: Saha Mainak
Published: October 2023

The recent decade has witnessed the evolution of a novel paradigm of alloying which is based on utilising multiple elements to design compositionally complex alloys also known as high entropy alloys (HEAs). Conventional manufacturing of HEAs has a number of drawbacks, especially in terms of mechanical properties and design complexities. This has been addressed by additive manufacturing (AM), which has not only led to the fabrication of complex-shaped HEA components but has also enabled both ex-situ and in-situ tailoring of alloy microstructures. Considering the increasing interest in AM-based fabrication of HEAs in the last ten years, the present chapter is aimed at highlighting the present status and challenges in the avenue of AM of HEAs. This has been followed by a discussion on the recent trends in the avenue of AM-based fabrication of HEAs from the viewpoints of (i) microstructure evolution and mechanical properties, and (ii) alloy fabrication techniques. The chapter ends with a discussion on the future prospects in the aforementioned avenue.
A Gastroenterologist’s Guide to Care Transitions in Cystic Fibrosis from Pediatrics to Adult Care
Authors: Patel Dhiren , Baliss Michelle , Saikumar Pavithra , Numan Laith , Teckman Jeffrey , Hachem Christine
Published: September 2023

Cystic Fibrosis is a chronic disease affecting multiple systems including the GI tract. Clinical manifestation in patients can start as early as infancy and vary across different age groups. With the advent of new highly effective modulators, the life expectancy of PwCF has improved significantly. Various GI aspects of CF care such as nutrition are linked to the overall improvement in morbidity, lung function, and quality of life of PwCF. The variable clinical presentations and management of GI diseases in pediatrics and adults CF should be recognized. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure efficient transfer of information between pediatric and adult providers for proper continuity of management and coordination of care at the time of transition. The transition of care is a challenging process for both patients and providers and currently, there are no specific tools for GI providers to help ensure smooth transition. In this review, we aim to highlight the crucial features of GI care at the time of transition and provide a checklist that can assist in ensuring an effective transition and ease the challenges associated with it.
From Grain to Gain: Revolutionizing Maize Nutrition
Authors: Mandal Shreya , Kumar Singh Vikas , Chaudhary Divya , Kaur Arshdeep , Kumar Rahul , Panwar Anjali , Ojre Anjali , Kumar Singh Ramesh , Kaushik Prashant
Published: September 2023

This chapter explores the pivotal role of maize (Zea mays L.) in global nutrition, emphasizing its status as a staple food worldwide. It discusses maize's complex nutritional profile, including macronutrients, micronutrients, and dietary fiber. The chapter also covers biofortification efforts to enhance maize with essential nutrients, addresses nutritional concerns related to maize-centric diets, and explores genetic modification and agronomic strategies to boost nutrient-rich maize yields. Additionally, it delves into maize processing traditions, nutrient retention techniques, and the importance of promoting nutrient-rich maize varieties. The chapter outlines post-harvest strategies to combat nutrient loss and prevent contamination while emphasizing the significance of consumer education and diverse diets. Case studies illustrate the impact of improved maize nutrition and provide replicable strategies. The chapter concludes by considering emerging research and technology, identifying challenges, and proposing solutions to enhance maize's nutritional value in the future.
Engineering a Computable Epiblast for in silico Modeling of Developmental Toxicity
Authors: Barham Kaitlyn , Spencer Richard , Baker Nancy C. , Knudsen And Thomas B. B.
Published: September 2023

Developmental hazard evaluation is an important part of assessing chemical risks during pregnancy. Toxicological outcomes from prenatal testing in pregnant animals result from complex chemical-biological interactions, and while New Approach Methods (NAMs) based on in vitro bioactivity profiles of human cells offer promising alternatives to animal testing, most of these assays lack cellular positional information, physical constraints, and regional organization of the intact embryo. Here, we engineered a fully computable model of the embryonic disc in the compucell3d.org modeling environment to simulate epithelial-mesenchymal transition of epiblast cells and self-organization of mesodermal domains (chordamesoderm, paraxial, lateral plate, posterior/extraembryonic). Cell fate in the model is determined by an autonomous homeobox (HOX) clock driven by morphogenetic signals (e.g., FGF, WNT, ATRA, CDX). Executing the model renders a quantitative cell-level computation of mesodermal subpopulations and consequences of perturbation based on known embryogeny. For example, synthetic perturbation of the control network rendered altered phenotypes (cybermorphs) mirroring experimental mouse embryology, with 50% reductions in FGF4, FGF8 and BMP4 signaling resulting in 86%, 98% and 59% reductions, respectively in the posterior mesodermal population, while ATRA exposure also resulted in a 78% decrease in this population. This model enables integration of in vitro chemical bioactivity data for specific molecular targets with known embryology to test mechanistic veracity and quantitative prediction of altered development.
Trust in Artificial Intelligence: Modelling Human Operators’ Decision-Making in Highly Dangerous Situations
Authors: Venger Alexander L. , Dozortsev Victor M.
Published: September 2023

Here, we propose a prescriptive simulation model of a process operator’s decision-making assisted by artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm in a technical system control loop. We analyze situations fraught with a catastrophic threat that may cause unacceptable damage. Operators’ decision-making is interpreted in terms of a subjectively admissible probability of disaster and subjectively necessary reliability of its assessment. We distinguish four extreme decision-making strategies corresponding to different ratios between the above variables. An experiment simulating a process facility, an AI algorithm and operator's decision-making strategy was held. It showed that depending on the properties of a controlled process (the speed of hazard onset) and the AI algorithm characteristics (Type I and II error rate), each of such strategies or some intermediate strategy may prove to be more beneficial than others. The same approach is applicable to the identification and analysis of sustainability of strategies applied in real-life operating conditions, as well as to the development of a computer simulator to train operators to control hazardous technological processes using AI-generated advice.
Aerodynamic Performance of Wind Turbines Operating under Hazard Environmental Conditions: A Review
Authors: Douvi Eleni , Douvi Dimitra
Published: September 2023

This paper provides a review of the aerodynamic behavior of horizontal axis wind turbines operating in hazardous environmental conditions. Over the past decade, renewable energy use has accelerated due to global warming, depleting fossil fuel reserves, and stricter environmental regulations. Among renewable options, solar and wind energy have shown economic viability and global growth. Horizontal axis wind turbines offer promising solutions for sustainable energy demand. Since wind turbines operate in an open environment, their efficiency depends on environmental conditions. Hazard environmental conditions, such as icing, rainfall, hailstorm, dust or sand, insects’ collisions, increased humidity and sea spray, result in degraded aerodynamic performance. The outcome of the most studies is that lift is degraded and at the same time drag is increased when wind turbines operate under these conditions. The objective of this review is to improve our comprehension of the crucial aspects to take into account when designing wind turbine blades, and it offers suggestions for future research paths. It serves as a valuable resource that can inspire researchers who are dedicated to enhancing the aerodynamic performance of horizontal axis wind turbines.
Cryosurgery Harvested Veins as Potential Grafts: An Immunohistochemical Analysis of Venous Samples
Authors: Parau Andrei Florin , Ceaușu Amalia Raluca , Gaje Pușa Nela , Raica Marius
Published: September 2023

Cryosurgery has emerged as a promising method for harvesting veins, but the suitability of these cryostripped veins as grafts remains a subject of investigation. This study delves into uncharted territory by conducting an immunohistochemical analysis and exploring the molecular aspects of venous samples obtained through cryostripping. Existing literature lacks comprehensive data on the components of varicose veins' walls, particularly in relation to protein expression. Furthermore, little is known about the proliferation rate of endothelial cells within varicose veins, which we scrutinize alongside an assessment of CD34 endothelial reactivity. Materials and Methods: Our study encompassed 109 samples procured using the cryostripping method, which involves catheterizing veins with a specialized probe cooled to -85°C. Molecular profiling of the intima and endothelium was conducted using two key markers: CD34 and Ki67. Results: Immunoreactivity for CD34 was discernible across all three layers of the varicose vein walls that were excised using cryostripping. Notably, the endothelial cell layer exhibited intense and uniform positivity in 36 out of the 109 samples under investigation. In contrast, the results regarding Ki67 expression, whether pertaining to the intima or endothelium, remain inconclusive. Conclusions: Our findings advocate for the utilization of CD34 as a reliable marker to assess the morphological and molecular integrity of excised venous specimens. As the use of cryosurgery-harvested veins as grafts gains traction, this research contributes valuable insights into their potential viability for transplantation, opening new avenues for further exploration in the field of vascular surgery.
Dendrometric Relationships and Biomass in Commercial Plantations of Dipteryx spp. in the Eastern Amazon
Authors: Lopes Lucas Sérgio de Sousa , Pauletto Daniela , Gomes Emeli Susane Costa , Silva Ádria Fernandes da , Oliveira Thiago Gomes de Sousa , Silva Jéssica Aline Godinho da , Baloneque Diego Damázio , Martorano Lucieta Guerreiro
Published: September 2023

Dipteryx spp. is an important species in reforestation in the Amazon. The objective of this study is to characterize and compare the relationships between dendrometric variables in Dipteryx spp. stands in the Western Amazon by fitting linear regression equations for total height and crown diameter. Six forest stands were evaluated in three municipalities. Dendrometric variables collected included diameter at 1.3 m height (dbh), total height (ht) and crown diameter (dc). Simple and multiple linear regression equations were fitted to characterize the relationships between ht and dc. The total aboveground biomass of Dipteryx spp. trees and the carbon stock of the stands were estimated. The general equations showed higher R² values, exceeding 0.7. The general equations for estimating ht and dc were significant for all coefficients. The trees averaged 22 t/ha of aboveground biomass in the stands. There was a variation in carbon sequestration potential among stands, ranging from 5.12 to 88.91 t CO2.ha-1. Single-input equations using dbh as an independent variable are recommended for estimating dc and ht for individual Dipteryx spp. stands. Stands in the Western Amazon play a significant role in carbon sequestration and accumulation. Trees can sequester an average of 4.8 tons of CO2 per year.
A Synopsis of Hepatitis C Virus Treatments and Future Perspectives
Authors: Medina Christian , Garcia Alexis Hipolito , Crespo Francis Isamarg , Toro Felix Isidro , Mayora Soriuska José , De Sanctis Juan Bautista
Published: September 2023

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a worldwide public health problem. Chronic infection by HCV can lead to liver cirrhosis or cancer. Although some immune-competent individuals can clear the virus, others develop chronic HCV disease due to viral mutations or an impaired immune response. IFNs type I and III and the signal transduction induced by them are essential for a proper antiviral effect. Research on the viral cycle and immune escape mechanisms have generated the basis of therapeutic strategies to achieve a sustained virological response (SVR). The first therapies were based on IFN-, then IFN-α plus ribavirin (IFN-RBV); then, pegylated-IFN--RBV (PEGIFNα-RIV) to improve cytokine pharmacokinetics. However, the maximum SVR was 60%, and several significant side effects were observed, decreasing the patients' treatment adherence. The development of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) significantly enhanced SVR (> 90%); the compounds were able to inhibit HCV replication without significant side effects, even in pediatric populations. The management of coinfected patients HBV-HCV and HCV-HIV has also improved based on DAA and PEG-IFNα-RBV (HBV-HCV). CD4 cells are crucial for an effective antiviral response. IFNλ3, IL28B, TNF-α, IL-10, TLR-3, and TLR-9 gene polymorphisms are involved in viral clearance, therapeutic responses, and hepatic pathologies. Future research focuses on searching for strategies to circumvent resistance-associated substitution (RAS) to DAAs, develop new therapeutic schemes for different medical conditions, including organ transplant, and develop vaccines for long-lasting cellular and humoral responses with cross-protection to different HCV genotypes. The goal is to minimise the probability of HCV infection, HCV chronicity and hepatic carcinoma.
Self-Organisation of Prediction Models
Authors: Feistel Rainer
Published: September 2023

Living organisms are active open systems far from thermodynamic equilibrium. The ability to behave actively corresponds to dynamical metastability: minor but supercritical internal or external effects may trigger major substantial actions such as gross mechanical motion, dissipating internally accumulated energy reserves. Gaining selective advantage from beneficial use of activity requires a consistent combination of sensual perception, memorised experience, statistical or causal prediction models, and resulting favourable decisions on actions. This information processing chain originated from mere physical interaction processes prior to life, here denoted as structural information exchange. From there, the self-organised transition to symbolic information processing marks the beginning of life, evolving by novel purposivity of trial-and-error feedback and accumulation of symbolic information. The emergence of symbols and prediction models can be described as a ritualisation transition, a symmetry-breaking kinetic phase transition of the 2nd kind previously known from behavioural biology. The related new symmetry is the neutrally stable arbitrariness, conventionality or code invariance of symbols with respect to their meaning. The meaning of such symbols is given by the structural effect they ultimately unleash, directly or indirectly, by deciding on which actions to take. The early genetic code represents the first symbols. The genetically inherited symbolic information is the first prediction model for activities sufficient for survival under the condition of environmental continuity, sometimes understood as a “final causality” property of the model.
Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex - A Case Study
Authors: Marciniak Aleksandra , Nawrocka-Rutkowska Jolanta , Brodowska Agnieszka , Starczewski Andrzej , Szydłowska Iwona
Published: September 2023

Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is characterized by lung cysts that cause lung deterioration, changes in the lymphatic system, and tumors in the kidneys. It mainly affects women of reproductive age and is a progressive disease. LAM can occur as an isolated disease or coexist with tuberous sclerosis (TSC). The source of LAM cells is unknown. Patients with confirmed LAM should be treated with an mTOR inhibitor, sirolimus, or everolimus. We present a case of LAM with TSC in a patient whose symptoms, including lymph nodes and chyaloperitoneum, mainly concern the abdominal cavity.
Effects of Beraprost with or without NOS Inhibitor on Aldosterone and Hemodynamics in Healthy Cats
Authors: Matsuura Takumi , Yoshimura Aritada , Fukushima Ryuji
Published: September 2023

Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of oral administration of clinical dose of beraprost for feline CKD in healthy cats, and also to examine whether NOS inhibition reversed them. Methods: A placebo-controlled pharmacological sequential design study was carried out to assess plasma aldosterone and renin concentrations, mean blood pressure, heart rate, renal plasma flow, and renal vascular resistance. Results: Beraprost reduced plasma aldosterone when compared to the placebo (P < 0.05); this was reversed when NOS inhibitor NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) was added to beraprost treatment (P < 0.01). No differences in the plasma renin concentration or hemodynamic parameters were detected between beraprost and placebo. The correlation ratios (η2) showed opposite relationships between beraprost and added L-NAME effects on aldosterone concentration, mean blood pressure, heart rate, renal plasma flow, and renal vascular resistance (P < 0.001). Conclusions: In healthy cats, the clinical dose of beraprost suppresses plasma concentration of aldosterone, which can be reversed by inhibition of NOS.
Efficacy of Postprandial Exercise in Mitigating Glycemic Responses in Individuals with Overweight, Obesity, and Type 2 Diabetes – A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kang Jie , Fardman Brian M , Ratamess Nicholas A , Faigenbaum Avery D , Bush Jill A
Published: October 2023

Studies investigating the acute effect of postprandial exercise (PPE) on glucose responses exhibit significant heterogeneity in terms of participant demographic, exercise protocol, and exercise timing post-meal. As such, this study aimed to further analyze the existing literature on the impact of PPE on glycemic control in individuals with overweight, obesity, and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Literature search was conducted through databases including PubMed, CINAHL, and Google Scholar. Thirty-one original research studies that met the inclusion criteria were selected. The random-effect meta-analysis was performed to compare postprandial glucose area under the curve (AUC) and 24-h mean glucose levels between PPE and the time-matched no-exercise control (CON). Subgroup analysis was conducted to explore whether the glucose-lowering effect of PPE could be influenced by exercise duration, exercise timing post-meal, and disease status of participants. This study revealed significantly reduced glucose AUC (Hedges’ g = -0.317; SE = 0.057; p < 0.05) and 24-hour mean glucose levels (Hedges’ g = -0.328; SE = 0.062; p < 0.05) following PPE than CON. The reduction in glucose AUC was greater (p < 0.05) following PPE lasting >30 min than ≤30 min. The reduction in 24-hour mean glucose levels was also greater (p < 0.05) following PPE initiated ≥60 min than <60 min post-meal and in those with T2D than those without T2D. PPE offers a viable approach for glucose management and can be performed in various forms so long as exercise duration is sufficient. The glucose-lowering effect of PPE may be further enhanced by initiating it after the first hour post-meal. PPE represents a promising strategy, particularly for patients with T2D.
Sound of Sirens, Echoes of Trauma: Unpacking Socioeconomic Vulnerabilities in the Israel-Hamas Conflict
Authors: Bayer Yaakov
Published: October 2023

During periods of armed conflict, civilians face an elevated likelihood of encountering traumatic events, heightening their susceptibility to mental health disorders such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The severity of an individual's response to trauma is often modulated by both the degree of exposure to traumatic incidents and specific personal attributes. This study aims to explore the relationship between PTSD symptoms and a range of variables, including the frequency of exposure to missile alerts, individual characteristics, and socio-economic factors. The research focuses on Israeli civilians affected by rocket attacks launched by Hamas during the Israeli military operation "Guardian of the Walls" in May 2021. Our empirical analysis reveals that individuals with limited exposure to missile attacks, those belonging to larger familial units, and those possessing higher educational and income levels are generally less susceptible to post-traumatic symptoms. Data for this study were collected through comprehensive surveys that captured demographic details and employed specialized questionnaires to assess the prevalence and severity of post-traumatic symptoms. These insights have significant implications for the development of targeted preventative measures aimed at reducing the risk of PTSD among at-risk populations. Moreover, they underscore the necessity of incorporating socio-economic considerations into the provision of mental health services for communities affected by violent conflict and trauma.
Genetic Characterization of HIV-1 tat Gene from Virologically Controlled HIV-infected Older Patients on Long-term Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: Kummet Nathan , Mishra Neha , Diaz Adela , Cusick Nicholas , Klotz Stephen A. , Ahmad Nafees
Published: October 2023

Despite advancements in antiretroviral therapy (ART) that reduces the viral load to undetectable levels, viral eradication has not been achieved due to HIV-1 persistence in resting CD4+ T-cells. We, therefore, characterized the tat gene, which is essential for HIV-1 replication, from 20 viro-logically controlled HIV-infected (HIV+) older patients on long-term ART with improved CD4+ T-cell counts. PBMC genomic DNA from HIV+ patients were used to amplify tat gene by PCR fol-lowed by nucleotide sequencing and analysis. Phylogenetic analysis showed that each patient’s tat sequences were confined to their own subtrees and well discriminated from other patients’ sequences. Moreover, there was a low degree of viral heterogeneity and lower estimates of genetic diversity within these patients’ tat sequences. Most patients’ Tat deduced amino acid sequences showed intact open reading frames and maintained the important functional domains for Tat functions, including transactivation, TAR binding and nuclear localization. Furthermore, Tat deduced amino acid sequences showed variation in previously characterized cytotoxic T lym-phocytes (CTL) epitopes, suggesting escape mutants. In conclusion, a low degree of genetic varia-bility and conservation of functional domains and variations in CTL epitopes were the features of tat sequences from 20 HIV+ older patients with undetectable viral load on long-term ART.