bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hazards and Risk Assessments in Oil Palm Plantations using the Life Cycle Thinking Concept
Authors:   Kuala Lumpur Kepong Berhad, Gan Lian Tiong
Published: April 2024

The life cycle thinking approach in evaluating hazards and risks at every stage of the plantation operations from nursery practices to despatch of crude palm oil is a useful management tool in self-assessing the potential environmental impacts in oil palm operations. This approach was tested and adopted in the self-assessment of the Principles and Criteria of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO P&C) in two estates and two palm oil mills in Sabah, East Malaysia. The life cycle thinking approach enables the management team to think through the process flow and examine the input and output of each activity at every stage of the plantation process. Potential hazards associated with each activity are identified through a simple scoring protocol to quantify the risks. This approach also enables the management team in reviewing the cause and effect of each activity across the whole process flow in a holistic manner. This methodology provides a systematic and organised way for identifying mitigation and corrective actions both in the short- and long-term where the activity has high probability of causing quality problems, negative environmental impacts or occupational safety and health risks. This approach has served as useful methodology in developing a set of master verifiers to lend support to the requirements of Principles 4,5 and 8 of the RSPO P&C. The results of the potential environmental impacts are reported in this paper as an illustration on how the life cycle thinking model can be used. Keywords: Life cycle thinking, hazard and risk assessments, RSPO P&C verifiers
Uptake of Phosphorous by Oil Palm Nursery Seedlings
Authors:   IOI Research Centre, Mathews J , Chong K M
Published: April 2024

Five sources of phosphate fertilisers with various strengths of citrate solubility were experimented on large polybag nursery seedlings at three rates viz; 5, 10 and 20 g per seedling. The three rates were calculated and standardised equivalent to citrate soluble P2O5 with the objective to provide indications on the efficiency of phosphate uptake by the seedlings and its response to growth. The present testing establishes the importance of phosphate in seedling growth. Irrespective of the source of the phosphate fertilisers, the estimated requirement of phosphate was 15 g per seedling to achieve optimal growth. However, triple super phosphate which has the highest citrate soluble content of P2O5 appeared to be the most cost effective, when applied to the seedlings at the rates corresponding to the citrate soluble phosphates. Keywords: Phosphate rocks, oil palm, citrate soluble phosphates.
Khaya ivorensis A. Chev -Early Response to Nutrient Deficiencies in Forest Plantation Nursery
Authors:   Forest Research Institute of Malaysia, V Jeyanny , AB Ghani AB Rasip
Published: April 2024

Macronutrients are essential elements for the growth and development of forest tree species. The lack of sufficient nutrients may adversely affect the growth and quality of the plants. The objective of this study was to observe and determine the initial macronutrient deficiency symptoms on the growth and vigour of Khaya ivorensis seedlings. One-month-old K. ivorensis seedlings were transplanted into 15 cm diameter and 23 cm tall plastic pots filled with acid washed sand. The treatments assigned were Tl: Control (Complete Hoagland No. 2 solution), T2: Hoagland No. 2 solution lacking in nitrogen, T3: Hoagland No. 2 solution lacking in phosphorus, T4: Hoagland No. 2 solution lacking in potassium, T5: Hoagland No. 2 solution lacking in calcium, and T6: Hoagland No. 2 solution lacking in magnesium. Irrigation was done according to treatments with 100 mL of the specified nutrient solution or distilled water every alternate day. On other days, 100 mL of distilled water was added. There were eight replications for each treatment. All pots were laid out in a complete randomised design (CRD). The visual deficiency symptoms and seedling growth were recorded monthly and the plant tissue nutrient contents were analyzed the initial three months after transplanting. All treatments except for control induced deficiency symptoms. Observations showed that seedling growth was reduced due to K, Ca and Mg deficiencies compared with control. The effects of N, K and Mg on the tissue content were also significantly reduced. Keywords: Nutrient deficiency, seedling establishment, forest plantation, poor growth
Termite Attack on Oil Palm Grown on Peat Soil: Identification of Pest Species and Factors Contributing to the Problem
Authors:   Forest Research Institute of Malaysia, Cheng S , L G Kirton , S Gurmit ,   United Plantations Berhad
Published: April 2024

Oil palm grown on peat soil has been reported to be severely attacked by subterranean termites, and this has been thought to be due to the harbouring of the termites in abundant timber residues left behind after the clearing of logged-over peat swamp forests for oil palm cultivation. In this study, oil palm trees and plant residues in plantations established on peat and mineral soils were examined for the presence of termites. The primary termite species capable of killing oil palm trees was Coptotermes curvignathus (Rhinotermitidae). Immature palms were killed as a result of feeding damage to the apical meristem at the base of the spear, while mature palms were killed as a result of damage to the trunk, in which the termite sometimes nested. C. curvignathus was rarely encountered in timber residues or frond heaps on the plantation floor, suggesting that removal of timber residues would not significantly reduce termite attack on oil palm on peat soils. Tivo other species of Coptotermesfound in oil palm trees grown on peat soils were able to form small nests in the trunks of mature palms but did not cause death. Together with Schedorhinotermes spp., they primarily infested plant and wood residues. The results also showed that there was a change in the composition of termite species across different soil types. Termitids were dominant in mineral soil sites, while Rhinotermitids dominated deep peat sites. A high population of C. curvignathus in the original peat swamp habitat is, therefore, likely to be a major factor contributing to the high incidence oftennite attack on oil palm grown on peat soils. Keywords: Coptotermes curvignathus, Isoptera, Rhinotermitidae, termites, peat soil, mineral soil, wood residues, Malaysia.
Aligning values in applied professional practice: a case study of children’s services qualifying programmes in a Scottish university
Authors: Cantali Di , Colville Tracey , Purcell Martin
Published: April 2024

This comparative study, conducted in a Scottish university, seeks to explore the role of professional values in children’s services qualifying courses in community education, social work and teacher education. Data from students and lecturers were analysed using thematic analysis. Participants recognised the importance of professional values as a central tenet of the courses, and most felt able to identify where these were addressed in teaching and learning opportunities. Key themes included tensions between professional and personal values; dilemmas of values in practice; and scope for enhancement of alignment between university values, professional learning and praxis.
Assessment of Avian Richness in Nature Park, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
Authors: Das Mousumi
Published: April 2024

This study is a preliminary inventory of the avifauna diversity in Nature Park, situated in the south western periphery of Kolkata within the state of West Bengal, India. A rigorous study of avifauna was carried out from March 2022 to February 2024. Basic line transects and point count methods were used in this study. A total of 108 bird species taxonomically belonging to 79 genera, 41 families and 12 orders were recorded from the study site. Passeriformes was the most predominant order with 48 species belonging to 21 families. Ardeidae with 11 species was the most dominant family. Maximum numbers of species were noted in genus Ardea. One vulnerable and one near threatened bird species was recorded from the study site regarding IUCN status.
RESISTENSI MASYARAKAT PESISIR PANTAI MERPATI ATAS KEBIJAKAN PEMBANGUNAN WATERFRONT CITY BULUKUMBA
Authors: Amsal Bahrul , Jusnawati Jusnawati
Published: April 2024

This study aims to determine the pattern and stage of resistance of the Merpati Bulukumba coastal community after the enactment of Regional Regulation No. 21 of 2012 concerning the 2012-2032 Bulukumba Regency Spatial Planning regarding the development of coastal areas through the Waterfront City grand design. This study used a descriptive qualitative method in the form of written narratives from the research subjects and observed behavior. In this study, the researchers determined the research location to be the coastal area of Merpati Beach in the Terang-Terang sub-district, Bulukumba district, South Sulawesi. The results showed that first, there was resistance in the coastal communities of Merpati Beach, with open patterns and strategies of resistance through rejection, demonstrations, and campaigns. Second, the process of resistance from the Pesisir Pantai Merpati community went through three stages so that they were able to influence local government policies through relocation decisions in the form of making shelter for the eviction victims.
Exploring a potential role for music therapy to promote positive communication and emotional change for couples: A single-session pilot case study
Authors: McNamara Peter , Wang Ruyu , Moss Hilary
Published: April 2024

This pilot case study explores a potential role for music therapy in relationship counselling by employing a case study design. It is contended that music therapy might support couples in understanding and communicating their relationship, affording opportunities for self-expression, emotional expression, communication (verbal and non-verbal) and social participation. The study was conceived with the objective of establishing a possible treatment or intervention which might stand alone or be included as part of a therapeutic service being offered to couples. Constructed around a single music therapy session with a married couple, the study comprised: an exploratory, semi-structured interview with the couple before the session; a music therapy session of 50 minutes’ duration; and a follow-up interview with the couple after the session. Four major themes emerged: (i) guarded, needy, things not meeting; (ii) happy together, venturing together; (iii) deep union; and (iv) transcendence. Data analysis was based on Van Manen’s (1990) phenomenological approach. The findings from this pilot project suggest music therapy’s potential for couples in promoting deeper emotional connection, positive communication and emotional change. Although the results should be treated with caution given the limitations of the methodological design, this study suggests that music therapy may provide an intimate environment to facilitate intense interpersonal interactions between the partners of a couple. This is possibly a new area of practice for music therapists, and further research is warranted.
Environmental factors influencing biomass and bulbil production of Nitellopsis obtusa in Lake Koronis, Stearns County, Minnesota
Authors: Carver Patrick , Wersal Ryan , Gebhart Maxwell
Published: April 2024

Starry stonewort [Nitellopsis obtusa (Desvaux) J. Groves] is a green macroalga in the family Characeae that is native to Eurasia. In the United States it has invaded many waterbodies across the northern tier from New York to Minnesota. In Minnesota, starry stonewort often grows later into the growing (September to December) season than most native species; however, the environmental factors that influence this life history trait are not well understood. Starry stonewort was harvested every 3 wk from May to November in 2020 and 2021 from four locations in Lake Koronis, Stearns County, MN. Light, water pH, and water temperature were also collected to correlate these variables to starry stonewort growth. Rhizoid biomass had weak negative correlations with temperature (rs ¼ 0.19) and pH (rs ¼ 0.14). Bulbil biomass had weak negative correlations with temperature (rs ¼ 0.24), pH (rs ¼ 0.31), and light transmittance (rs ¼ 0.11). Bulbil density had weak negative correlations with temperature (rs ¼ 0.23), pH (rs ¼ 0.29), and light transmittance (rs ¼ 0.10). Bulbil production was highest between October and November of each year. Bulbil biomass and density was lower in 2020 (4.6 g m2 and 1,229 bulbils m2) thanin2021(14.7gm2 and 5,211 bulbils m2). The average annual bulbil density was 1,537 bulbils m2 and ranged from 0 to 157,000 bulbils m2. The ability of starry stonewort to grow in dense mats and produce large quantities of bulbils contributes to the difficulty of controlling infestations. Bulbils are a method of spatial and temporal distribution that can allow for recolonization of previously treated areas.
Stress distribution in multilayer structural element subjected to skew bending
Authors: Bareišis J. , Daniškevičiūtė A. , Kleiza V.
Published: April 2024

Results of researches on strength and stiffness of diagonally bending sandwich girders having geometric and/or stiffness asymmetry have been given. A mathematical module for calculation of normal strain (strength) and stiffness on bending at any cross-section point of sandwich girder has been proposed. The kinetics of stiffness on bending and strength variation dependences when geometric parameters of a cross-section and tension modulus ratios of girder layers are changing have been examined. It has been established that the strength of a diagonally bending sandwich girder on the whole depends on the position of the centre of stiffness and the position of the neutral plane.
Development of mobile minirobots for in pipe inspection tasks
Authors: Tătar O. , Mândru D. , Ardelean I.
Published: April 2024

The possibilities to use a miniaturized robotic system for inspection, exploration and maintenance of the pipes are highlighted. In this paper, the authors’ contributionin this field is discussed. Two in-pipe minirobots developed by the authors are described. The efforts are focused on the in-pipe mobility and corresponding actuationsystems. Several functional characteristics (e.g. the maximum /minimum inner pipe diameter) are given.
Hyperobjekt Digitalisierung – Implikationen für die Sozialwirtschaft
Authors: Wunder Maik
Published: April 2024

Unternehmen der Sozialwirtschaft wird mit einer Objekt-Orientierten Ontologie ein Reflexionsinstrumentarium an die Hand gegeben, welches sich gängigen Rationalisierungsimperativen, die mit der Implementierung von Digitalisierung einhergehen, entzieht. Es wird dafür plädiert, stärker bei den Dingen anzusetzen und deren Undurchsichtigkeit und Handlungsmacht anzuerkennen und diese unternehmerisch zu berücksichtigen.
Analysis of the Development of Potential Tourist Attractions to Increase Consumer Spending in Ranca Upas Bandung
Authors: Dian Sua Pratama Bayu , Maryetti Maryetti , Bobur Sobirov
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Indonesia is a country with a distinctive variety of cultures and natural beauty and has the uniqueness of each region because that is why Indonesia is famous for its beautiful tourism potential, one of which is in Bandung. Bandung is a city of flowers and is famous for its natural panorama coupled with several tourism potentials in Bandung, especially at Ranca Upas. The purpose of this study is to find out what potential can be developed at Ranca Upas Bandung, what obstacles are faced by managers in developing the potential of Ranca Upas Bandung, and how to increase consumer spending at Ranca Upas Bandung, using the indicators of Feasibility of Ranca Upas Bandung Tourism Objects. Method: This research uses a descriptive qualitative method, and the research sampling technique uses purposive sampling, with the number of informants as many as six people. The data analysis technique used descriptive analysis. Result: Based on the results of identifying the potential of Ranca Upas Bandung, all the informants stated that the availability of public transportation had not been fulfilled, and the ancillary in terms of marketing was still not fulfilled. Then, tourist sources stated that onsen facilities were still not met and natural tourist attractions were not met. Conclusion: Maintain the beauty of nature, maintain cleanliness, and comfort in Ranca Upas Bandung. They are improving inadequate facilities and rethinking to find solutions for onsen so that visitors are interested in buying onsen entrance tickets. More actively promote Ranca Upas on social media, and collaborate with influencers so that more people are curious and visit Ranca Upas.
The Influence of Motivation and Job Competence on Employee Performance in the Marketing of ABC Insurance
Authors: Ulfah Arini Dewi , Suryadi Rudi , Khairunnisa Khairunnisa
Published: April 2024

This study aims to determine the effect of the motivation and work competence of ABC Insurance telemarketing through the Vinnocomm application on employee performance. The research design and methods were tested using multiple regression, and the instruments for each variable were tested using a descriptive presentation analysis before the partial effect test was carried out. The research sample was ABC Insurance exceptional telemarketing employees who had used the Vinnocomm Application as many as 65 respondents filling out a questionnaire. Validity and reliability tests, normality tests, multiple linear regression analysis, t-test, F-test, and coefficient of determination were carried out in the analysis phase. From the study results, telemarketing work motivation is quite influential in achieving performance but not too strong. Meanwhile, telemarketing work competence through the vinnocomm application has a significant and robust influence on the process of achieving the performance of telemarketers. This research has implications that it is necessary to increase enthusiasm and enthusiasm from telemarketing in carrying out work processes such as training, refreshment, periodic motivation, or in the form of bonuses and compensation that is in line with the results achieved from telemarketing.
Mind Study through Religious Liberal Arts Education: Focused on Emotions, Empathy, and Mindful Choice
Authors:   The Korean Association for the Study of Religious Education, Jo Seong-Hun
Published: April 2024

[Objective] This study aims to explore the key elements of mind study, namely emotion, empathy, and mindful choice, through ‘Meditation and Character Cultivation’, a religious liberal arts education course at Wonkwang University.
[Contents] The research analyzes the religious liberal arts education at Wonkwang University, which is based on the founding spirit of Won Buddhism. Focusing on the ‘Meditation and Character Training’ course, it investigates the emergence and recognition of emotions, the enhancement of empathy abilities, and the process of mindful choice. In this process, the study illuminates the interrelationship between emotions and sensory conditions, as well as the diversity and complexity of emotions, examining how these elements play a crucial role in mind study.
[Conclusions] This study demonstrates how the religious liberal arts education of Won Buddhism can contribute to socially harmonious behavior choices by integrating emotion awareness and empathy capacity. Particularly, it provides concrete examples of how mind study can play a positive role in religious liberal arts education.
Do the foraging strategies of Odontotermes horni (Wasmann)workers on various organic matter depend on the weather parameters?
Authors:   Department of Agril.Entomology, University of Agril.Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru -560065, Karnataka, India, Email: ngkumar55@yahoo.co.in, N G KUMAR
Published: April 2024

The investigation delved into how worker termites of O. horni search for food sources under varying weather conditions in an undisturbed forest ecosystem. The result indicated that the maximum atmospheric temperature had a significant negative correlation with foraging patches < 25 cm. The minimum atmospheric temperature exhibited a significant negative correlation with tree damage and the height of earthen sheeting construction by the termite workers. Moreover, the maximum atmospheric relative humidity showed a significant negative correlation with tree damage and the height of earthen sheeting by the workers. Similarly, the minimum atmospheric relative humidity had a significant negative relationship with tree damage and the height of earthen sheeting construction by the workers, but a positive significant relationship with foraging patches < 25 cm. Lastly, rainfall had a significant negative relationship with tree damage and the height of earthen sheeting on the trees, while sunshine hours showed a significant positive relationship with tree damage by the workers.
Foraging strategies of the workers of Odontotermes horni on various organic matter
Authors:   Department of Agril.Entomology, University of Agril.Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru -560065, Karnataka, India, Email: ngkumar55@yahoo.co.in, N G KUMAR
Published: April 2024

The study focused on how worker termites of O. horni forage for different food sources. They were found to forage under earthen sheetings of various shapes and sizes, depending on the foraging site and season. Active foraging was observed during cooler hours of the day. This species is efficient in harvesting food without wasting energy while transporting either food or soil particles on the tree trunk.
Do the subterranean termite Odontotermes horni alter the micronutrient status of different host plants?
Authors:   Department of Agril.Entomology, University of Agril.Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru -560065, Karnataka, India, Email: ngkumar55@yahoo.co.in, N G KUMAR
Published: April 2024

The study investigated the effects of O.horni foraging on various organic litters such as maize straw, finger millet straw, cattle dung, farm waste, grass, silver oak leaves, eucalyptus leaves and bark, and the replaced soils. The results show that the earthen sheetings of O.horni contained significantly less exchangeable Ca, Mg, Zn, Fe, Mn, and Cu contents than the various organic litters. Variations in the exchangeable Na, Ca, Mg, Zn, Fe, Mn, and Cu content were also observed among the earthen sheetings of the different organic litters. Additionally, these earthen sheetings contained slightly higher nutrient content than the surrounding subsoils
Explorando Fronteras Medicas: Un Viaje a través de las Especialidades Volumen VI
Authors: Alarcon Henry , Alvarez Miguel , Cadena Cinthya , Calva Santiago , Granda Luis , Guamán Cristian , Llivisupa Roberto , López David , Maldonado Carlos , Maldonado Shaden , Ordoñez Christopher , Ortega Ivonne , Padilla Rocio , Peralta Flor , Valencia Carlos
Published: April 2024

Realizamos la octava entrega de la serie "Explorando Fronteras Médicas: Un Viaje a través de las Especialidades volumen VIII". En este volumen, como sus predecesores, nos adentramos una vez más en este apasionante universo de la Medicina, con el fin de compartir con nuestros colegas esta gran ciencia que evoluciona constantemente.
A Scientometric Analysis on Islamic Consumer Behavior
Authors: Puspita Amelia Tri
Published: April 2024

In everyday life, every human being cannot be separated from the act of fulfilling needs or what is better known as consumption activities. Consumption activities are part of very important economic activities. This activity includes all consumer behavior related to exchange activities, both in the form of exchanging the value of products or services to meet consumer needs and desires. However, in practice, consumption activities are often not in line with social welfare goals. Many consumption activities cause injustice and harmful behaviors among others. This is because consumption behavior often prioritizes self-interest to get maximum satisfaction (utilitarianism). By applying Islamic values in consumption, welfare can be realized that provides maslahah both individually and socially and luck (falah) and happiness in the world and the hereafter. The starting point is to change the behavior of individuals and society into Islamic consumers. This study aims to determine the development map and trend of Islamic Consumer Behavior published by well-known journals in the field of Islamic Economics and finance. The data analyzed were more than 293 Scopus indexed research publications. The export data is then processed and analyzed using the R Biblioshiny application program to find out the bibliometric map of the development of Islamic Consumer Behavior. The results showed that the number of publications on the development of the role of Islamic economic and financial research continues to increase.
ANALISIS SWOT SEBAGAI DASAR PENENTUAN STRATEGI PEMASARAN PRODUK PADA TOKO FRENDY SPORT
Authors: Aprianto Karim Mohamad , Ratnaningtyas Endah Marendah , Jumadi Jumadi , Susilawati Desi
Published: April 2024

Tujuan penelitian ini yaitu untuk mengetahui analisis kelebihan, kekurangan dan ancaman yang terdapat pada toko Frendy Sport dengan menggunakan metode analisis SWOT dan strategi pemasaran yang sebaiknya diaplikasikan pada toko Frendy Sport guna meningkatkan penjualan produk. Jenis penelitian`yang digunakan adalah penelitian deskriptif kualitatif dengan alat kumpul data yaitu observasi, wawancara, dokumentasi serta kuesioner. Sumber data yang digunakan meliputi informasi dari pemilik toko, karyawan dan konsumen yang berkaitan untuk menunjang keakuratan data. Analisis SWOT merupakan suatu kajian sistematik terhadap faktor-faktor kekuatan (Strengths) dan kelemahan (Weakness) internal perusahaan dengan peluang (Opportunities) dan ancaman (Threats) lingkungan yang dihadapi perusahaan yang untuk memudahkan penentuan strategi pemasaran yang akan dijalankan dalam suatu perusahaan. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukan bahwa 1) Strategi pemasaran yang digunakan oleh toko Frendy Sport antara lain dengan memanfaatkan media sosial baik untuk memperluas pemasaran serta meningkatkan promosi dalam penjualan online. 2) Toko Frendy Sport menerapkan analisis SWOT untuk melihat segala situasi yang ada di sekitarnya. Penerapan analisis SWOT pada Frendy Sport ini untuk melihat situasi dan kondisi yang terjadi di dalam masyarakat. Berbagai kekuatan pada produk yang dimiliki, berusaha untuk dimanfaatkan yaitu dengan  memberikan jaminan kualitas produk terbaik dengan harga yang ekonomis kompetitif namun tidak merugikan, dan kelemahan yang dimiliki terus diminimalisir. Sedangkan peluang dan ancaman dihadapi dengan melihat peluang-peluang yang ada untuk dapat dimanfaatkan dengan sebaik-baiknya.
Pengaruh Kompetensi, Kinerja Mahasiswa Akuntansi Terhadap Kepuasan Pengguna Industri Di Propinsi Bali
Authors: Gde Mantra Suarjana Anak Agung
Published: April 2024

Perguruan tinggi mengharapkan agar lulusannya sesuai dengan kebutuhan pengguna industri dan siap kerja. Persepsi dunia industri harus ditelusuri, sehingga tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk  menganalisis  1) Pengaruh  kompetensi  mahasiswa akuntansi terhadap  kepuasan pengguna industri. 2)  Menganalisis  pengaruh  kinerja mahasiswa akuntansi   terhadap  kepuasan pengguna industri. 3) Menganalisis  pengaruh kompetensi  dan  kinerja  mahasiswa  akuntansi  secara simultan terhadap  kepuasan pengguna  industri. Pengumpulan  data  dilakukan  dengan  teknik  kuesioner. Jumlah sampel mahasiswa sebanyak 100  orang  diambil saat Praktik Kerja Lapangan pada dunia industri di Propinsi Bali. Analisis data  dengan  teknik  analisis   kuantitatif   yaitu  regresi  linear  berganda. Hasil analisis  data  dengan signifikansi 0,05 menunjukkan  bahwa kompetensi mahasiswa akuntansi  berpengaruh  positif  dan  signifikan terhadap kepuasan dunia industri. Kinerja mahasiswa akuntansi berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap kepuasan dunia industri. Kompetensi dan  kinerja  mahasiswa  akuntansi secara simultan berpengaruh  positif dan  signifikan  terhadap  kepuasan  pengguna  industri di Propinsi Bali
Software Platform Based on the hLARM Formalism for Modeling Complex Systems
Authors:   Faculty of Automatic Control and Computers, University Politehnica of Bucharest, Splaiul Independentei No. 313, 060042 Bucharest, Romania, POPESCU Dragos Constantin , DUMITRACHE Ioan ,   Faculty of Automatic Control and Computers, University Politehnica of Bucharest, Splaiul Independentei No. 313, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
Published: April 2024

The problem of defining, analyzing and reasoning behaviors, facts and uncertainties in complex systems asks for new modeling formal methods and software tools that can deal with managing such collections of heterogeneous and dynamical interacting entities. The purpose of this paper is to present in detail the implementation of a new software modeling platform which is based on the hLARM (Hybrid Logic-Algebraic Relational Modeling) formalism which aims to alleviate the process of designing and managing such systems. The development of the platform is thoroughly analyzed from its conceptual background and up to the algorithms which support all the inference procedures involved.
EXPERIMENTAL ANALYSIS OF POWER SEMICONDUCTOR ELEMENTS USED IN FLYBACK CONVERTERS
Authors: LAUDATU OVIDIU-DORIN , NICULAE DRAGOS , IORDACHE MIHAI , BOBARU MARIA-LAVINIA , STĂNCULESCU MARILENA
Published: April 2024

Switch-mode power supplies (SMPS) have become very popular lately due to their superior efficiency and compact dimensions as compared to conventional counterparts which contain low-frequency transformers. This efficiency and miniaturization are connected to several factors, including high operating frequencies typically in the kHz to MHz range, the utilization of ferromagnetic materials for inductive coupling, and the incorporation of active switching components to mitigate energy loss via the Joule-Lenz effect. Enhancing SMPS efficiency implies active circuit elements (diodes, transistors, etc.) sizing and arrangements. This paper presents a practical approach by addressing a series of experiments to analyze and compare the performance of different active components. It starts with the analysis of the PWM generator module from the primary and continues with the field-effect transistors and rectifier diodes in the secondary. The asynchronous flyback topology has been chosen to carry out the experiments. By using the same experimental platform, based on the obtained results, the analysis of behavioral differences between the different components has been performed.
INTERNET OF THINGS PLATFORM BENCHMARK: AN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ASSESSMENT
Authors: CRĂCIUN ROBERT-ALEXANDRU , PIETRARU RADU-NICOLAE , MOISESCU MIHNEA-ALEXANDRU
Published: April 2024

The Internet of Things (IoT) represents a transformative technological concept that seamlessly becomes a part of the Internet across all industries. Artificial intelligence (AI) provides IoT with new capabilities used to analyze data in real-time and make informed decisions. There is a wide array of IoT devices with different computational capabilities and AI accelerators that need to be compared. The current paper proposes a comparison between two single-board computers using an existing AI benchmark.
DETECTION OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE VIA CLIFFORD GRADIENT-BASED RECURRENT NEURAL NETWORK USING MULTI-DIMENSIONAL DATA
Authors: RAMAIAH ARUN , BALASUBRAMANIAN PARVATHI DEVI , APPATHURAI AHILAN , NARAYANAPERUMAL MUTHUKUMARAN
Published: April 2024

Disease prediction is a vital step in the early diagnosis of many diseases in the overpopulated modern world. The prediction has gotten simpler due to advancements in various machine learning (ML) techniques. However, the complexity of the model and the choice of the best machine-learning method for the given dataset significantly impact its accuracy. Globally, there are many datasets, but their unstructured nature prevents them from being used in any useful way. To extract anything valuable for use in the actual world, various strategies are therefore accessible. To evaluate the model, accuracy now serves as a key metric. This research proposes a novel Cliff-PD to detect Parkinson's disease using a Clifford gradient RNN classifier with MRI and EEG signals. Initially, the MRI images are denoised using multi-scale Retinex (MSR), and the EEG signal is denoised using Stationary Wavelet Transform filters to reduce the noise artifacts. Then, the Clifford Gradient RNN is employed to classify the normal, Non-specific white matter hyperintensity and global brain atrophy using MRI images. Furthermore, the Clifford Gradient RNN is employed to classify the normal, generalized background slowing using an EEG signal. The performance of the proposed Cliff-PD model achieved an accuracy of 99.18 %. Compared with SVMs, AlexNet's, and CROWD autoencoder, the accuracy range is improved overall by 5.38 %, 10.36 %, and 3.2 %, respectively.
MAXIMUM POWER POINT TRACKING IN A PEROVSKITE SOLAR PUMPING SYSTEM WITH A SIX-PHASE INDUCTION MOTOR
Authors: ABDELWANIS MOHAMED I. , ZAKY ALAA A.
Published: April 2024

In this work, the maximum power point (MPP) of a photovoltaic (PV) array utilized as a source of electricity in standalone mode is tracked using a genetic algorithm (GA) as an optimization tool. The major objective of this work is to implement and regulate a six-phase induction motor (SPIM) powered by a centrifugal pump and fed by a perovskite solar array through a three-phase inverter. Perovskite solar cells are the most promising third-generation photovoltaic technology to replace silicon-based photovoltaic. These cells are made cheaply, at a low temperature, and efficiently. The outcomes are then investigated utilizing a SPIM scaler (v/f) closed-loop control. PID controllers are tuned to keep the motor speed aligned with the reference value. The transformer's six-phase secondary is linked to an LC filter to reduce the voltage and current waveform ripple. A test setup was created and installed to investigate the potential of controlling the SPIM fed via a three-to-six-phase transformer. The findings showed that the area needed for the plates when utilizing perovskite solar cells is just 14 % of what it would be if a silicon-based solar array were used for the identical purpose. Perovskite solar cells' tiny surface area helps to prevent partial shading and lower costs. It was discovered that the suggested method works well for powering SPIM from a three-phase source.
SECOND ORDER SLIDING MODE CONTROL FOR ISLANDED AC MICROGRIDS WITH RENEWABLE POWER RESOURCES
Authors: ABJADI NAVID REZA , KARGAR ABBAS
Published: April 2024

Microgrids have attracted a lot of attention and are the future power systems. This paper proposes a new control scheme for islanded AC microgrid (MG) using master-slave technique. Stability and high performance are vital  for  islanded MG. Two second order sliding mode controls (SMCs) are designed in stationary reference frame for master and slave units to control the voltage and powers respectively. Both designed controls guarantee the convergence of considered outputs to their reference values. The proposed controls are robust, simple, chattering free and only need local measurements. The control method proposed in this paper can be easily extended to microgrids with any number of slave units and parallel connected inverters. The effectiveness of the proposed control scheme is veriﬁed through simulation results in SIMULINK/MATLAB environment and compared to feedback linearization control and a modified conventional SMC.
SYNTHESIS OF FRACTIONAL ORDER FUZZY OBSERVER FOR A FRACTIONAL ORDER TAKAGI-SUGENO MODEL WITH UNMEASURABLE PREMISE VARIABLES
Authors: DJEDDI ABDELGHANI , AMIEUR TOUFIK , HANNACHI FAREH , METATLA SAMIR , AOUICHE ABDELAZIZ
Published: April 2024

In this article, we present a novel approach: a fractional-order fuzzy observer, an extension of the Thau-Luenberger observer, specifically designed for nonlinear systems characterized by commensurate non-integer order Takagi-Sugeno models. This work makes significant contributions in two key areas. Firstly, both the activation functions of the model and the Lipschitz fractional-order fuzzy observer are dependent on unmeasurable variables, particularly the system's state. Secondly, our proposed fuzzy observer explicitly incorporates the system's initial conditions. The stability conditions of the fractional-order fuzzy observer are expressed through Bilinear Matrix Inequalities, which are then converted into linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Subsequently, numerical simulations are conducted to demonstrate the efficacy of our proposed estimator.
Development Journalism in Nigeria: Unveiling Potentials and Confronting Challenges
Authors:   Department of Public Administration, Kampala International University Uganda, Bitikoro Faith U.
Published: April 2024

This article delineates the opinion gap between what we see as pan-globe journalism worldwide with regards to the birth of New International Information Order. It discusses development journalism as a misunderstood concept and how Nigerians perceive this form of journalism. Create an interactive experiential exhibit that simulates various aspects of local history, such as citizen involvement, cultural traditions, ethnic diversity, or natural features. Emphasizing media’s significant position in development of the society, the work brings to focus the necessity of a change from politics and business orientation to an inclusive reporting which addresses the gaps and the livelihood issues affecting the differing strata of the society. Cultural development of the media press is the basis of the article. Hence, first of all, national culture is preferably reflected in content and language. Also, as one of the main themes, it gives principles of peace journalism which is intended to be a responsible reporting tool that can bridge up Nigerians and bring unity and development within the country. On the other hand, the author discusses obstacles obstructing the adequate deployment of the African development journalism in Nigeria including digital impact, ownership of the media houses and profit-oriented news outlets. Keywords: Press, Development, Media, Order, Journalism and Nigerian Press.
Pelatihan Pembuatan Teh Herbal Dan Jamu Dari Daun Kardia (Bellucia Pentamera) Dalam Upaya Pencegahan Penyakit Degeneratif
Authors: Salni Salni , Juswardi Juswardi , Junaidi Endri , Kamal Mustafa , Triwardana Singgih
Published: April 2024

Penyakit degeneratif seperti tekanan darah tinggi, jantung koroner, diabetes melitus, maag dan kanker banyak diderita oleh masyarakat Indonesia. Kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat ini bertujuan memberikan pelatihan pembuatan teh dan jamu dari daun Kardia (Bellucia pentamera) dalam upaya pencegahan penyakit degeneratif. Kegiatan dilakukan di desa Tanjung Baru, kecamatan Indralaya, Ogan Ilir. Kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat diikuti oleh ibu-ibu dan remaja putri. Kegiatan dilakukan dalam tiga tahap yaitu (i) Penyuluhan tentang pentingnya menjaga kesehatan khususnya mengenai penyakit degeneratif, (ii) Pelatihan cara membuat teh dan jamu dari daun kardia dan penggunaannya, dan (iii) Evaluasi produk jamu dan teh yang dibuat masyarakat serta evaluasi kegiatan. Evaluasi kegiatan dilakukan untuk mengetahui sejaah mana masyarakat memahami materi dan yang diberikan dan tindak lanjut dari kegiatan ini. Hasil kegiatan menunjukkan meningkatnya pengetahuan masyarakat mengenai penyakit degeneratif, pencegahan dan penyembuhannya dari 49,2 % menjadi 91,7 %. Selain itu meningkatnya keterampilan masyarakat dalam membuat teh dan jamu dari daun Kardia.
Lapor SPT Melalui E-Filing Dalam Upaya Meningkatkan Kepatuhan Wajib Pajak di Lingkungan Perguruan Tinggi
Authors: Chamalinda Khysh Nusri Leapatra , Kusufi Muhammad Syam , Faisol Imam Agus , Hakim Tito IM Rahman , Gitayuda M. Boy Singgih , Lutfia Citra , Rohma Frida Fanani , Zulfatillah Auliya , Listiana Yufita
Published: April 2024

Kegiatan pengabdian ini dilaksanakan atas kerjasama antara Tax Center Fakultas Ekonomi dan Bisnis (FEB) Universitas Trunojoyo Madura bersama KPP Pratama Bangkalan serta Relawan Pajak 2024. Tujuan kegiatan adalah memberikan pendampingan pelaporan SPT Tahunan melalui e-filing kepada Wajib Pajak agar dapat memenuhi kewajiban perpajakannya dengan baik. Jumlah Wajib Pajak yang memanfaatkan kegiatan ini merupakan Dosen di lingkungan Fakultas Hukum dan Fakultas Pertanian Universitas Trunojoyo Madura sebanyak 40 orang. Wajib pajak tersebut telah melaksanakan kewajiban perpajakannya dengan melaporkan SPT Tahunan melalui e-filing secara tepat waktu, yakni sebelum 31 Maret.Tidak hanya pelaporan SPT, kegiatan ini juga sebagai bentuk dukungan kepada pemerintah dalam hal pemadanan NIK-NPWP. Kendala yang umumnya dihadapi Wajib Pajak adalah kurang mehamami penggunaan e-filing. Alasan pentingnya pendampingan ialah untuk memudahkan Wajib Pajak melaporkan SPT Tahunan melalui e-filing. Wajib pajak merasa terbantu dan puas dengan hadirnya kegiatan pendampingan SPT Tahunan ini, beberapa kendala yang dihadapi saat pendampingan dapat teratasi dengan baik. Wajib Pajak juga memberikan berharap pendampingan SPT Tahunan ini dapat dilaksanakan secara berkelanjutan.
Plantation Technologies
Authors: Hortig Hans
Published: April 2024

In this article we investigate plantation agriculture as a technology aimed at extracting natural resources, utilising unpaid labour, and installing regulatory authority. Using the oil palm plantation territories of Johor State in Malaysia – a core zone of palm oil production, manufacturing and export – as a case study, we ask how more-than-human assemblages enabled the expansion and refinement of oil palm plantations in Malaysia and contributed to the material transformation of the territory. We also explore how plantations can be mobilised as an analytical device to study the urbanisation of territory through agro-industrial production. To explore those questions, we present three episodes of more-than-human involvement in assembling oil palm plantation territories in Johor. Through the conceptual frame of the operationalisation of territory, we bring into dialogue literature on the Plantationocene with critical urban studies and the history of urbanisation.
Subversive Submersives
Authors: Edwards Charity
Published: April 2024

The enormity of the ocean presents as an unusual physical obstacle that complicates claims for spaces being urbanised well beyond the traditional container of the city, such as the focus of this discussion: the Southern Ocean. Though commonly perceived as a pristine wilderness at the end of the earth, the ocean surrounding Antarctica has been imbricated in planetary-scale processes of urbanisation since the late eighteenth century, so the absence of this oceanic volume from twenty-first-century urban debates is troubling. Representations of the Antarctic as remote and disconnected from cities do nothing to contribute to a critical discussion of its ocean volume, technological histories or ongoing colonial settler imaginaries. Instead, attention might turn to codifying what the ocean increasingly contains by way of urban processes and, ultimately, what might be offered by confirming extended forms of urbanisation operating on and, importantly, through the earth. In this article I re-present the Southern Ocean via comparative cartographies and critical image-making to cross-examine what its occlusion signifies for the planetary reach of urbanisation. For underneath the machinery of extraction and exploitation lie significant questions regarding representations of the urban as they manifest outside conventions that overstate ‘the city’ as central to urbanisation.
Terra Forma Speculative Mapping
Authors: Arènes Alexandra , Grégoire Axelle
Published: April 2024

This visual essay discusses an object-map of Paris basin soil and subsoil, commissioned for the Element Terre exhibition within the Architecture and Landscape Biennial 2022 (Versailles, France). To create this map, we contacted actors and researchers whose work is related to soil: earth scientists, materials specialists, and human habitat specialists. Using a model from the book Terra Forma: A Book of Speculative Maps, we designed a specific reference system, the ‘soil’ model, to map entities, movements and conflicts in the underground environment(s). The resulting map aims to reveal what is going on beneath our feet, what is hidden from view, to go beyond representations that are limited to the surface.
All Sorts of Quality Interactions With English Learners
Authors: Chu Haiwen , Lopez Guillermo Virgilio
Published: April 2024

English learners can make new connections and applications through small group sorting activities.
Las interacciones ecológicas y estructura de una comunidad altoandina de colibríes y flores en la Cordillera Oriental de Colombia
Authors: Gutiérrez-Zamora Aquiles
Published: April 2024

Durante dos años estudié la interacción colibrí-flor en el bosque altoandino y subpáramo en los Cerros de Torca en la Cordillera Oriental de los Andes colombianos, con respecto a la distribución espacial de las poblaciones de los colibríes y los patrones de selección de las plantas polinizadas por ellos. Identifiqué las preferencias por recursos registrando visitas florales y polen trasportado por las aves. Una comunidad de 18 especies de colibríes interactuó con al menos 58 especies de plantas. La comunidad de plantas se clasificó en tres gremios de polinización con base en características de las plantas, además de la variedad y frecuencia de colibríes como vectores de polen. Tales características estaban asociadas directamente con el establecimiento de interacciones de diferentes niveles de intensidad con especies o grupos de especies de colibríes como polinizadores más frecuentes. La estructura ecológica de los dos hábitats reflejó las interacciones ínterespecíficas y su naturaleza en la configuración de patrones no aleatorios en tales comunidades. Una fuerte influencia de fenómenos de competencia y coevolución es evidente en la organización de estas comunidades colibrí-flor. Los mecanismos de coexistencia de las especies involucran divergencias espaciales, características florales, relaciones morfológicas y distribución espacio-temporal de las abundancias de las aves. Se establecieron convergencias notables con otras comunidades colibrí-flor en ecosistemas de montaña.
Notas sobre la historia natural del coclí (Theristicus caudatus, Threskiornithidae) en el suroeste de Colombia
Authors: Fierro-Calderón Eliana
Published: April 2024

Describo varios aspectos del comportamiento alimentario y reproductivo, las relaciones intra e interespecíficas y las vocalizaciones del coclí (Theristicus caudatus), con base en observaciones efectuadas en la Reserva Natural El Hatico, Valle del Cauca, entre junio de 2006 y febrero de 2007. Los coclíes se alimentan de artrópodos, principalmente insectos, y forrajean en sitios de vegetación baja, sistemas silvopastoriles y cañaduzales. Prefieren palmeras como sitios de descanso diurno y dormitorios, aunque también usan árboles. En enero de 2007 se observaron cópulas y transporte de material, y en febrero se encontraron dos nidos en etapa de incubación, ambos en palmeras. Ambos padres participan en la incubación y la alimentación de los polluelos. Aunque no presentan dicromatismo sexual conspicuo, los machos y las hembras pueden diferenciarse por tamaño, comportamiento y voz; también encontré diferencias sutiles en plumaje. Los coclíes forrajean principalmente en parejas o grupos pequeños, pero pueden congregarse hasta 18 individuos para pernoctar. La permanencia de los coclíes en la Reserva Natural El Hatico pone de manifiesto la importancia del buen manejo del suelo y la vegetación para la conservación de la especie.