bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Leadership, Motivation and Work Stress on Turnover Intention of PT. BCA Finance Karawang Branch
Authors: Nurdiansyah Diki , Parwoto Parwoto , Badawi Saluy Ahmad
Published: September 2021

Human resources in a corporate organization is a unity that can not be separated to achieve organizational goals. The achievement of organizational goals can be seen from the performance of employees. Currently, the problem of high turnover intention has become a serious problem for many companies. The negative impact that is felt due to the occurrence of turnover intention in the company is on the quality and ability to replace employees who leave the company, so it takes time and new costs in recruiting new employees. Leadership is expected to be able to direct and motivate employees so that they can carry out their jobs well, and can control or reduce stress levels in employees. And can reduce the turnover rate can maximize employee performance. Therefore, based on the above background, this research takes the title “The Effect Of Leadership, Motivation And Work Stress On Turnover Intention Of Employees Of PT. XYZ Karawang Branch”. This type of research uses a quantitative approach, with a sample of 51 respondents with a sample collection technique that is saturated sampling technique. Evaluation of the Measurement Model (Outer Model) and Evaluation of the Structural Model (Inner Model) to test and prove the research hypothesis. The results of this study indicate that leadership and motivation have no significant effect on turnover intention, while work stress has a significant positive effect on turnover intention. In order to reduce the turnover rate, it is hoped that the leadership will provide an appropriate job description for each employee so that there is no oversize capacity on the ability and working hours of employees.
A Comparative Study of the Competitiveness of Nam Dinh Province in the Red River Delta Region of Vietnam
Authors: Thi Tinh Duong , Thu Ha Nguyen Thi
Published: September 2021

Before deciding to invest in a certain locality, investors always consider the investment environment or competitiveness of the localities and tend to invest in the localities with the highest scores and high rankings on provincial competitiveness in the region. This study focuses on analyzing and evaluating the competitiveness of Nam Dinh province in comparison with other provinces in the Red River Delta. The results show that although Nam Dinh has made a lot of progress in improving the investment environment and increasing the PCI score, the PCI ranking is still not high, even worse than many other provinces in the region. In order to contribute to improving the province's competitiveness in the coming time, this study has proposed a number of possible solutions.
Proposed Business Scheme for Small and Medium Architectural Consultant Using Blockchain Paradigm (Case Study: Studio Kano)
Authors: Chenriana Jessica , Mansoor Alvanov Z.
Published: September 2021

Developments in Indonesia are growing along with the increase in population. The high demand both in architecture and construction is an excellent opportunity for architectural business. Unfortunately, the development was not supported by proper preparation of financial allocations. As a result, many projects were delayed or even stalled. Moreover, this problem has negative impacts on various parties, such as architects and contractors.

This paper formulates a new architectural business scheme for Studio Kano as a newcomer architectural consultant who often experiences problems during the process. The majority of this problem is due to the client's financial condition and causes a difference between the results and the initial design. At first, Studio Kano needs to increase the company's productivity and minimize disruption in project development, especially from the financial issues, by analyzing the company's current business situation using two analytical approaches; Business Process Analysis and Value Proposition.

The finding from conducted analysis determines a new architectural business scheme for Studio Kano using the Blockchain paradigm. It will underpin to maintain its design characteristics, maximize productivity, and minimize project development disruption, especially in payment issues.
The Evaluation of Digital Brand Storytelling Implementation in Local Brand
Authors: Fauziah Fairuz Nisa , Fachira Ira
Published: September 2021

In the digital era, where there are so many choices of brands, each brand must have good communication skills with its audience. One strategy that is now widely applied in various brands is the brand storytelling technique. Telling stories on social media is not just writing or just uploading content but must interact with the audience. Now, every brand must survive with good customer engagement with its consumers to be sustainable. Every brand certainly has a meaningful story that is shared with its audience through various strategies. Therefore, every brand must recognize and evaluate the brand storytelling strategy that has been implemented. Through brand storytelling, consumers will become part of the brand and engage for a long time. Implementation of brand storytelling needs to pay attention to the performance of the content marketing and how to arrange the elements of the signature stories in the strategy. The result of this study are solutions that can be applied to strengthen brand storytelling on Sewderhana Goods.
Implementation of Fibonacci Retracements and Exponential Moving Average (EMA) Trading Strategy in Indonesia Stock Exchange
Authors: Lusindah Lusindah , Sumirat Erman
Published: September 2021

Based on KSEI statistic data on March 2021, IDX individual stock market investor is increasing 199% compared to 2018 becoming 4,848,954 number of investors. 56.9% population of the individual investor is having ages that less than 30 years. In the period where IDX was bullish in November 2020 - January 2021, there is a phenomenon where stocks influencers appeared in social media and impacted to the stock price movement after the announcement is done by the influencer. In contrary, during bearish and sideways condition, those influencers were gone and changed with bad news that went viral where many individual investors are lost their capital in IDX. They lose money since they are gambling in the stock market without any analysis and no establishment of trading plan. This research is aimed as a strategy to individual investors in IDX to implement trading strategy based on Fibonacci retracements and projections, EMA lines, trendlines, stochastic, and volume. Back testing is conducted in IDX SMC Liquid index constituents during January 2018 until December 2020 period. By implementing this trading strategy, return generated is 164% for 3 years trading time frame. Author also found that this trading strategy is effective in bullish trend condition especially for individual investors that have long position.
Literature Review: Research Reflection of Financial Statements Fraud Detection Methods in Indonesia
Authors: Prastiwi Putri Intan , Payamta .
Published: September 2021

This study aims to identify methods in the detection of fraud in financial statements conducted by researchers in Indonesia. This research has been published on the website of the Ministry of Research and Technology with the SINTA 1 and SINTA 2 indexes. This research was conducted with a literature study on financial statement fraud in Indonesia. The research method used is a descriptive qualitative method by taking data from literacy studies on the research of fraud detection methods in Indonesia. The results of this study indicate that the fraud detection method used in financial reports in Indonesia is using the fraud Triangle method. The article of these studies is expected to provide input, insight, and information to all parties such as company management, auditors, and users of financial statements about various methods of detecting financial statement fraud in Indonesia.
Impact of Inflation and Unemployment on Economic Growth of Pakistan
Authors: Ramzan Muhammad
Published: September 2021

This paper aims to identify the influence of inflation and unemployment on the economic growth of the country. This study recommends some essential policies about unemployment and inflation in the economic growth of Pakistan. In this study, the “Ordinary Least Square (OLS)” method is used with different diagnostic tests for determining the fitness of data for the investigation; and the data is collected from 1980 to 2018. The econometric results suggest that the time series is stationary because the values of t-statistic are more than t-tab and sig value is also significant. The error term on ADF is significant and that ensures that there is long term association. The results of ECM indicate that inflation and unemployment are away from the value of equilibrium. The results of multiple linear regression models indicate that inflation and unemployment are statistically insignificant, and the overall model is also statistically insignificant. There is no multicollinearity and there is no heteroscedasticity as per White test. By running the Ramsay Reset test, the researcher concludes that the model is not specified because the sig value of the t-test and f-test is significant.
Relationship between Labor and Economic Growth in Vietnam: Practice and Forecast
Authors: Tung Phuong Huu
Published: September 2021

This paper analyzes the effects of the fluctuation in labor force and labor productivity on Vietnam's economic growth. Using the neoclassical growth model with data from the General Statistics Office, the study shows that when the number of laborers increases by 1%, the economic growth rate will raise by 2.78%. Combined with predicted figures on changes in Vietnam's labor force in the period of 2009-2049, the results of the study reveal in order to maintain the current economic growth rate, labor productivity needs to increase to 106.2% in the period of 2029-2039 and 111.6% in the period of 2039-2049. Vietnam is losing the advantage of labor force so its long-term economic growth will depend mainly on labor productivity. Improving the quality of labor is the driving force for economic growth. This depends on the combination of specific national policies and strategies, in which education and training policies are highlighted.
The Impact of Psychological Capital Towards Job Satisfaction During COVID-19 Pandemic (Case Study at Government Institution in Cilegon City, Indonesia)
Authors: Sabila Yumna , Febriansyah Hary
Published: September 2021

This government institution is one of the public services that focus on women's empowerment, child protection, and government affairs in the field of population control and family planning. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic occurred the service offered is not worked as well as the service motto that has been set by the organization. Based on Government Performance Accountability Report 2020, the organization's performance has decreased because several program's strategic objectives have not met the predetermined targets. The problems that have been identified from the preliminary interview can be categorized into issues related to employee job satisfaction. The researcher suspects that job satisfaction can be one of several issues that can affect employee performance. Positive psychological capital has a significant relationship with employee performance and job satisfaction. Also, the four facets of psychological capital (hope, efficacy, optimism, and resilience) may be a better predictor of performance and satisfaction. The condition of employee psychological capital can have a positive or negative impact on job satisfaction, so in this research, the researcher will analyze the impact of psychological capital towards job satisfaction. The researcher using PCQ-24 by Luthans and Job Satisfaction Survey by Spector questionnaire to determine the condition of psychological capital and job satisfaction. After the data has been gathered, the author uses descriptive analysis to determine the condition of psychological capital and job satisfaction. Also, uses linear regression to determine the impact of psychological capital towards job satisfaction.
Resource Relatedness and Its Effect on the Performance of Parent Firm and Foreign Subsidiary
Authors: Kumar Rani
Published: September 2021

The parent-subsidiary relation is attracting increasing academic interest. However, prior studies on the parent-subsidiary relatedness did not clearly demonstrate the effect of resource relatedness between the parent firm and its subsidiaries on the performance of parent and foreign subsidiaries. Building on resource-based and knowledge-based views, we investigated the effect of resource relatedness on the performance of parent firm and foreign subsidiary. We discussed the theoretical foundations and main accomplishments of prior studies. We developed a conceptual framework and hypothesis in order to close the existing research gap in the topic of interest. We claimed that resource relatedness has a positive impact on the performance of foreign subsidiary, while its effect on the performance of the parent firm can be both positive and negative.
Physicochemical Profile of Essential Oils Obtained from Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) Seeds Grown in Different Agro-Ecological Zones of Kenya
Authors: Komu Clement , Mburu Monica , Njoroge Daniel , Koskei Richard
Published: September 2021

The chia seed samples were purchased from farmers in five locations in three agro-ecological zones in Kenya. The oil was obtained by cold pressing and physicochemical properties were determined; the fatty acid profile was determined by Gas chromatography. The mean oil yield from pressing was 16%, the refractive index of chia seed oil at 25 °C ranged from 1.4811 to 1.4832, specific gravity ranged from 0.9616 to 0.9629, acidity index and free fatty acids content ranged from 0.0345-0.0808 mg KOH/g oil, and 0.1736-0.4061%, respectively. The matter in volatiles ranged from 0.047-0.086%. The saponification value ranged from 162.1969–183.3791 milligrams (mg) of potassium hydroxide (KOH) per gram (g) of chia seed oil. The differences in refractive index, acidity index, free fatty acids, specific gravity, and saponification value, were statistically significant at (P<0.05). The α-linolenic (C18:3) and linoleic acids (C18:2) were the dominant fatty acids in chia seed oil and they varied with regions. The levels α-linolenic (C18:3) and linoleic acids (C18:2) ranged from 53.32-64.04% and 19.37-22.87%, respectively. The levels of oleic, linoleic, and linolenic fatty acids in chia seed oils from different regions were statistically significant at (P<0.05). The study recommended the cultivation of chia seed in agro-ecological zones II and III where higher yields and higher content of linoleic and linolenic fatty acids were reported, consumption of chia seed oil as edible oil, and substitution of marine oils with chia oil as potential sources of polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Variation of Groundwater and Rainwater Quality in a Nigerian Leper Colony
Authors: Olaoye Rebecca A. , Coker Akinwale O. , Sridhar Mynepalli K.
Published: September 2021

Adequate supply of potable water is a major challenge in most leper colony with emphasis often placed on water needs of “normal” people but little concern on the safe water source for the physically challenged and vulnerable lepers with limited mobility who cannot search for other sources of water outside designated colony. This study was designed to investigate the quality of water sources within a Nigerian leper colony. Periodic characterization of groundwater and rainwater samples was conducted using American Public Health Association (APHA) methods to determine physico-chemical parameters; appearance, odour, colour, taste, chloride, pH, sulphate, copper, zinc, iron, nitrate and bacteriological parameters; coliform organism and Escherichia coli (E-coli) against the world health organization (WHO) drinking water standard. Water samples were clear and odourless. Most of the parameters tested from both sources; groundwater and rainwater were within the recommended standard. Results from short term water quality parameters taken from 2010-2012 were relatively within the same range while the long-term decadal water quality parameters showed slight variation compared to the short term. Heavy metals showed remarkable variation in 2019 while bacteriological parameters from both water sources were above the permissible threshold. For potable use, water sources require adequate treatment. Boiling or disinfection is recommended until water samples have been retested to ascertain that contamination has been eliminated. In addition, home water-treatment through the use of filters, solar disinfection, or flocculants should be provided to make the water safe.
Post COVID-19 Mandibular Osteomyelitis: An Alarming Oral Health Concern
Authors: Arewar Akansha , Besekar Smruti , Dhankikar Suraj , Manwatkar Kalyani
Published: September 2021

Various posts COVID-19 complications have been reported recently in the patients. However, there is still a dilemma about whether this oral manifestation is occurred due to corona virus infection or secondary factors resulting from the patient’s systemic condition. These oral conditions in a patient diagnosed after discharge. The pathogen responsible for the pandemic is severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which has resulted in global healthcare crises and strained health resources. The prevalence of clinical manifestations is still unidentified; the range of COVID-19 manifestations on the oral cavity has been seen in various forms. The current case aims to report a rare finding of bone and soft tissue defect in the mandible as a possible sequel of COVID-19 infection.
An Enhanced Classification Model for Likelihood of Zero-Day Attack Detection and Estimation
Authors: Emmah Victor T. , Ugwu Chidiebere , Onyejegbu Laeticia N.
Published: September 2021

The growing threat to sensitive information stored in computer systems and devices is becoming alarming. This is as a result of the proliferation of different malware created on a daily basis to cause zero-day attacks. Most of the malware whose signatures are known can easily be detected and blocked, however, the unknown malwares are the most dangerous. In this paper a zero-day vulnerability model based on deep-reinforcement learning is presented. The technique employs a Monte Carlo Based Pareto Rule (Deep-RL-MCB-PR) approach that exploits a reward learning and training feature with sparse feature generation and adaptive multi-layered recurrent prediction for the detection and subsequent mitigation of zero-day threats. The new model has been applied to the Kyoto benchmark datasets for intrusion detection systems, and compared to an existing system, that uses a multi-layer protection and a rule-based ranking (RBK) approach to detect a zero-day attack likelihood. Experiments were performed using the dataset, and simulation results show that the Deep-RL-MCB-PR technique when measured with the classification accuracy metrics, produced about 67.77%. The dataset was further magnified, and the result of classification accuracy showed about 75.84%. These results account for a better error response when compared to the RBK technique.
Use of Project-based Training in Teaching Business Translation
Authors: Al-Sowaidi Belqes
Published: September 2021

The present study reports on the use of project-based learning in teaching business translation at the undergraduate level at two Yemeni universities; namely, Al-Saeed University and Taiz University. Two groups of students, one control and the other experimental, were selected. Both groups took a pre-test in business translation in which they were asked to translate several texts from Arabic into English, and vice versa. After the pre-test, the two groups completed a 3-month business translation course. Project-based translation training was used with the experimental group. The control group covered the content of the course in a traditional manner. Both groups were asked to take a post-test in business translation after completion of the course. The study concluded that the experimental group that completed the project-based training showed more progress than the control group. The difference between the mean of the two groups was found to be significant, at p < 0.05. Members of the experimental group were also interviewed about the project-based approach adopted in the programme to gain insights into its pros and cons.
Age Related Techniques in Teaching and Speaking a Foreign Language
Authors: Gordi (Dilo) Daniela
Published: September 2021

The purpose of this article is to show the importance of age related techniques used in classes that help students enjoy, learn and speak a foreign language. There are different techniques used at different ages.  However, it is also important to build a good relationship and in order to do so, teacher must know his/her students’ goals, age, foreign language level, interests and background and furthermore real practice of lesson topics. Most importantly, what we teach should relate to students. Creating a good atmosphere is important. There are some difficulties to improve all skills of speech activity at the same time. Teachers should find the right tools and strategies adopted to every age. Role playing, debating, reading, asking the right questions are some important tools.
Exploration of E-Commerce Talents Training Mode Based on CDIO-OBE Concept
Authors: Xu Gongwen , Shi Lin , Xiao Peng , Zhang Zhijun
Published: September 2021

The rapid development of E-commerce requires the cultivation of well-educated E-commerce talents. However, the traditional talents training methods of E-commerce specialty in colleges cannot meet the requirements of the industry. In order to cultivate high-quality E-commerce innovative talents, we should keep up with the pace of the times, timely adjust the training scheme, establish a perfect training system and improve the training mode. Based on the main problems existing in the cultivation of E-commerce talents in colleges, this paper introduces the CDIO-OBE engineering education mode. Taking CDIO as the main line of E-commerce specialty courses, the target ability indicators and professional knowledge are gradually run through in all teaching links, cultivating students' practical application ability and improving students' innovative designing ability. Under the concept of OBE, the industry requirements are transformed into the ability training objectives of students at different levels, so as to guide the formulation of curriculum training objectives and improve the teaching contents. The two concepts complement each other and jointly improve the current training mode of application talents of E-commerce, so as to cultivate innovative talents of E-commerce with sound vocational skills and professionalism.
Integrated Renewable Energy Systems in Fruit and Vegetable Processing Industries: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lopes Sofia Lewis , Duarte Elizabeth , Fragoso Rita
Published: September 2021

The exponential population growth will put great pressure on natural resources, agriculture, energy systems and waste production. New business models and innovative technological approaches are necessary to tackle these challenges and achieve the energy transition targets set by the European Commission. Renewable energy technologies and processes such as solar photovoltaic, solar thermal and anaerobic co-digestion have become a subject of interest and research as a solution that could be fully implemented in industries and solve several environmental and economic problems. This paper discusses the possibility of integrating and complement these technologies to maximize renewable energy production and circularity.

The review was performed with a funnel approach aiming to analyze broad to specific subjects. Beginning with a literature review on the various definitions of circular economy, bioeconomy, and circular bioeconomy, ultimately proposing a single definition according to an industrial and academic scope combination, followed by a systematization and assessment of data and literature regarding energy systems present state and projections. The next phase was to assess data and literature of the fruit and vegetable processing industry from an energy consumption and biowaste production perspective to consequently discussing technologies that could help manage problems identified throughout this review. This paper culminates in propounding an Integrated Renewable Energy System conceptual model that promotes energy and waste circularity, envisioning how industries could be designed or redesigned in the future, coupled with a circular bioeconomy business model.
Anaerobic Co-digestion of Organic Fraction of Municipal Solid waste and Septage for Sustainable Waste Treatment: A Case Study from Goa, India
Authors: Shet Ravikiran , Mutnuri Srikanth
Published: September 2021

India generates 0.15 million metric tons (MT) of solid waste per day out of which more than 80% is organic fraction. Apart from this, 38% of the households use septic tanks where proper disposal of faecal sludge is also need of the hour. Anaerobic co-digestion (ACD) of two different substrates has positive potential towards solving this problem. In the present study, ACD of organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) and septage solids (SS) was studied at three different levels, i.e., lab-scale, pilot-scale (1 m3), and full scale- capacity (325 m3). A loading rate of 1.5 kg VS/m3 was selected. The bio-methanation potential (BMP) assay showed a maximum biogas generation, i.e., 120±20.6 mL/gmVS with 68% maximum methane concentration at a 5:1 OFMSW and SS ratio. Cumulative biogas production after 30 days was 1.6 L/gmVS. The ultimate biogas production in the pilot-scale plant was 1000±100.5 L/day with 71% methane. The plant was also efficient in removing 87% of COD and 61% of VS. The full-scale anaerobic digester was set up at Mormugao Municpal Council, Goa India wherein the objective was to co-digest OFMSW and SS. This digester showed a similar removal pattern like earlier studies i.e., 94% and 45% COD and VS removal, respectively. The average methane content of the biogas was 68%. Full-scale operation of the anaerobic digester did not show any operational problems at the chosen co-digestion conditions.
Medical Imaging using Deep Learning Models
Authors: Singh Chetanpal
Published: September 2021

Deep learning has played a potential role in quality healthcare with fast automated and proper medical image analysis. In clinical applications, medical imaging is one of the most important parameters as with the help of this; experts can detect, monitor, and diagnose any kind of problems that are there in the patient's body. However, there are two things that one needs to understand; that is, the implementation of Artificial Neural Networks and Convolutional Neural Networks as well as deep learning to know about medical image analysis. It is necessary to state here that the deep learning approach is gaining attention in the medical imaging field in evaluating the presence or absence of disease in a patient. Mammography images, digital histopathology images, computerized tomography, etc. are some of the areas on which DL implementation focuses. One upon going through the paper will get to know the recent development that has occurred in this field and come up with a critical review on this aspect. The paper has demonstrated in detail modern deep learning models that are implemented in medical image analysis. There is no doubt about the promising future of the deep learning models and according to experts; the implementation of deep learning techniques has outperformed medical experts in numerous tasks. However, deep learning also has some drawbacks and challenges that are required to be addressed like limited datasets and many more. To mitigate such kinds of challenges, researchers are working on this aspect so that they can enhance healthcare by deploying AI.
Implications of the Engineering Geological Properties of Soils in the Implementation of the Greater Jos Master Plan, North Central Nigeria
Authors: Wazoh Hannatu N. , Mallo Stephen J.
Published: September 2021

A study of the engineering properties of the subsurface soil in the Greater Jos Master Plan development area has been carried out to address the paucity of engineering data in the area. The study became necessary because the rapid urbanization has led to limited construction land with more ground prone to instability due to reworking by mining and related activities. The study area is located within Latitudes 09º 48' 20'' to 09º 53'20''N and Longitudes 08º 53' 54'' to 08º 57 '00'' E and extending over 54km2 on Naraguta Sheet 168NE. Surface geological mapping was carried out to confirm the existing geology. Geotechnical properties of soils were determined by analysis of soil samples for 38 locations. While 94 static water level measurements provided additional information on groundwater conditions. The area is underlain by the Jos-Bukuru Complex rocks predominantly biotite granites differentiated on the basis of mode of formation, mineralogy and texture. Soils derived from weathering of the rocks revealed gradual decomposition from gravel, sand, and silt-sized particles to lateritic clays. The soils are considered to have low to medium plasticity/compressibility, expansiveness, and swelling potential across all rock types. The static water table depicts fluctuation in the water table varying between 2.9 and 3.9m. These findings are expected to serve as guide in the choice of design and construction and as a baseline subsurface soil compendium for planning and urban development in the Greater Jos Master plan and for further studies.
Dry and Wet Waste Segregation and Management System
Authors: Rakib Md Abdullah Al , Rana Md. Sohel , Rahman Md. Moklesur , Abbas Fysol Ibna
Published: September 2021

Waste management faces numerous difficulties because of its enormous, quickly developing populace in a densely populated nation in the developing nations. The primary target of the research work is dry and wet waste separation and management process. A portion of the trash individuals produce is biodegradable, some are recyclable, and some are not one or the other. Waste segregation includes isolating wastes as per how it's dealt with or handled. Isolation of waste through at unloading locales burns-through additional time and labor. This work suggests a Spontaneous Waste Segregator (SWS) which is a modest, simple to utilize answer for an isolation framework at family units. The AWS utilizes a dampness sensor to distinguish wet and dry waste and separate them with ultrasound sensors for ceaseless checking and GSM based waste level notice to authority. This system can be used in industries for the employees to use daily. It will be used for wet food junks or even as a normal daily bin. The automatic wet and dry waste and separating system has been developed using microcontroller. As the integrated circuits and microcontroller become more and more accessible and the technology is a fact of today with the improved availability of sensor devices.
Performance Evaluation of a Small-Scale Mechanical Fish Feeder
Authors: Fasoyin S. A. , Akinfiresoye W. A. , Agbetoye L. A. S. , Olutayo L. A. , Adetuyi O.
Published: September 2021

The performance evaluation of an existing mechanical fish feeder was carried out. Floating feeds of sizes 2 mm, 4 mm, and 6 mm at constant moisture content of 13 % were fed into the feeder. The feeder was powered by a 3-phase, 1.5 kW reducing gear electric motor at speed 40 rpm, 50 rpm, 60 rpm, 70 rpm and 80 rpm machine. It was observed that the horizontal screw conveyor effectively transported the material from the hopper to the discharged point. The results obtained from the tests showed an optimal performance of the machine at speed 50 rpm with dispensing efficiency of 93.1 % for 2 mm feed size, while the throughput was 75.76 kg/h at motor speed of 80 rpm also for the 2 mm fish feed size. The ANOVA at p ≤ 0.05 showed that machine speed has significant effect on its dispensing efficiency and the throughput capacity. The cost of production of the mechanical fish feeder was ₦262,300 which made it affordable for young entrepreneurs.
A Cooks Distance Approach to Control the Haz and Arc Length of Tig Mild Steel Weld
Authors: Uwoghiren F. O. , Ozigagun A.
Published: September 2021

The heat affected zone and arc length parameters have a vital role to play in determining the integrity of a weld structure. The cooks distance is a statistical diagnostic employed in this study to select the best optimum combination of welding process parameters. Mild steel plate was the choice material used to produce the weld specimen, which was welded with the Tungsten inert gas method. The RSM model was used to develop an optimal solution that can explain the behavior of the welded joint with respect to the heat affected zone and arc length, different diagnostic techniques were employed which includes the normal probability plot and cooks distance plot. The model developed has sufficient merit as the results obtained shows that the cooks distance values is within the range of 0 and 1 indicating the absence of outlier in the data making the optimal solution highly acceptable.
A Review on the Latest Developments of Conducting Polymer and Composite Coatings for Enhancing Biocompatibility and Corrosion Resistance of Metallic Biomedical Implants
Authors: Mohammed Mohammed Razzaq , Radhi Safaa Hashim , Hadi Ahmed Namah
Published: September 2021

The utilisation of metals and alloys in the biomedical field was and is still of immense importance for human life. Typically, the materials used for metallic biomedical applications, particularly those are implanted in vivo, provide appropriate mechanical and biological properties that allow them to accomplish the purpose for which they are used. Nonetheless, there are some inherent limitations impede the optimal use of these materials. One of the most crucial determinants is corrosion, which results in several other problems such as the formation of toxic substances that can not only cause necrosis of the cells attached to the implant, these toxins could also be carried by blood into body tissues and organs. This in turn leads to dire consequences on patient's life. Although a wide variety of approaches may be available to address the corrosion issue, it is alleged that coating these metals and alloys with polymers, especially the conductive ones, is among the best strategies in this regard.

This review will highlight the latest developments in using conductive polymers including polypyrrole, polyaniline, polythiophene and their composites in order to enhance biocompatibility, mechanical properties and most importantly corrosion protection performance of metallic implants. The findings obtained from coating 316L stainless steel, titanium and magnesium alloys, which have been widely manipulated in biomedical field as long and short-term implants, will be evaluated.
Synthesis, Crystal Growth, Crystal Arrangement, Optical, Thermal, NLO and Biological Investigations of Heterocyclic Compounds of N-(1,3-benzothiazol-2-yl)benzamide and N-(1,3-benzothiazol-2-yl)-2-fluorobenzamide
Authors: Raveendiran C. , Prabukanthan P.
Published: September 2021

Heterocyclic organic nonlinear optical materials of N-(1,3-benzothiazol-2-yl)benzamide [2-BTBA] and N-(1,3-benzothiazol-2-yl)-2-fluorobenzamide [2-BTFBA] were orchestrated by benzoylation of 2-aminobenzothiazole utilizing subbed benzoyl chloride. The orchestrated mixtures2-BTBA and 2-BTFBA molecular ion peaks at 253.9 & 272 were affirmed by GC-MS. The grown single crystals of 2-BTBA and 2-BTFBA were developed by slow evaporation method at room temperature with a combination of ethyl acetate & methanol as dissolvable. The X-ray diffraction investigations of equally 2-BTBA & 2-BTFBA crystal have a monoclinic framework with space group P21/n individually. The FT-IR spectra of 2-BTBA and 2-BTFBA show absorption peaks at 1670 and 1660 cm-1, indicating the presence of carbonyl functional group vibration modes in the molecules. UV–Vis spectra show a awesome absorbance band at 303 & 300 nm for 2-BTBA and 2-BTFBA molecules, respectively. The number of protons and carbons were predicted using 1H and 13C NMR spectrum studies. TGA and DTA analyses confirmed the various stages of disintegration of the produced crystals, and they are thermally stable up to 403 K and 333 K for 2-BTBA and 2-BTFBA, respectively. The zone of hindrance method was used to test the antibacterial and antifungal activities of produced single crystals using amphotericin-B and ciprofloxacin as standards. The outcomesprove that the incorporated mixtures display prevalent anti-fungal and antibacterial activity. The non-linear efficiency was affirmed by Kurtz- Perry concentrates trategy for 2-BTBA and 2-BTFBA crystals with the SHG proficiency 2.28 and 2.83 times more prominent than that of potassium dihydrogen phosphate [KDP].
Phytochemical Screening and Assessment of Antibacterial, Antioxidant and Antihelminthic Activities of Sarcocephalus latifolius Leaves
Authors: Iteku Jeff B. , Makaya Ornella V. , Ngunde-te-Ngunde Samy , Inkoto Clément L. , Lengbiye Emmanuel M. , Tshidibi Joseph D. , Ngbolua Koto-Te-Nyiwa
Published: September 2021

The main objective of our study was to determine the cheminical composition and to assess the antioxidant, antibacterial and antihelminthic activities of the leaves extracts of S. latifolius. The antibacterial activity of S. latifolius leaves extracts was assessed using micro-dilution method. In end, the antioxidant capacity of different plant extracts has been evaluated by determining their ability to reduce iron (III) to iron (II) and DPPH radical. The results obtained revealed that the dry matter of the powder of the S. latifolius leaves is rich in fibers, crude proteins, lipids and carbohydrates. Its water content was moderate (14.3 %); the leaves of S. latifolius are rich in mineral elements like calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), potassium (K) and iron (Fe); the plant has the main groups of secondary metabolites such as total polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, bound and free quinones, steroids and tri-terpenes, while it is poor in anthocyanins, leucoanthocyans and saponins. The bacterial strains used were less sensitive to S. latifolius leaf extracts (MIC greater than or equal to 500 µg/mL). The extracts of this plant showed significant antioxidant and antihelmintic activity, with a strong correlation between the methods used to evaluate the antioxidant potential of DPPH and FRAP. Due to their interesting functional properties, this plant could be used in the formulation of a nutraceutical with strong antioxidant power to improve the antioxidant status of consumers, but also in the management of helminthiases.
Addressing Farmer’s Perceptions-attitudes and Constraints to Adopt Agroforestry adjacent to the Coastal Belt of Sundarbans, Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Md. Akramul , Aktar Laila Abeda , Jubair S. M. Rakibul , Dey Tanmoy , Biswas Rahul
Published: September 2021

Agroforestry is receiving a win-win strategy for low-income countries through increasing attention in Bangladesh especially in the coastal region because of its capacity to address some of the negative consequences of intensive agriculture with sustainable perceptions, attitudes, and management through farmers both locally and globally. As the actual uptake and maintenance of agroforestry in proximity to the coastal area by farmers remains low and that is why this research work investigates agroforestry practices e.g., Homestead agroforestry, boundary plantation, mixed plantation, cropland agroforestry, agrisilvicultural systems, Agro-aqua silviculture, and Agro-aquaculture systems on a sustainable basis with a view to find out the farmers ‘perceptions and attitudes through identifying their constraints and problems with potential opportunities to adopt agroforestry in Satkhira district of Bangladesh. A sample of 80 respondents selected randomly was interviewed through a semi-structured interview schedule individually and a multistage random sampling technique was adopted to conduct the study. Therefore, results revealed that middle-aged farmers (36-50) (46%) are interested in agroforestry practice than a traditional practice. The adoption of younger (26-35) 35% farmers is increasing day by day since they have had more schooling than the older generation or perhaps have been exposed to new ideas as a migrant. Illiteracy (56%) has primary level of education) is the main reason for non-adoption of agroforestry. The farmers (28%) they taken lease from other people who have no own land they are not interested in agroforestry. Farmers (47%) are interested in agro-aquaculture practice, because high cash return get from this practice. About 68.7% respondents have taken positively agroforestry practice, but they have no training skill or facility. If they get this facility, they are more interested in agroforestry practice. Finally result mentioned that 76.25% respondents perceived agroforestry positively and most of the farmer’s (68.7%) have positive attitude towards it whilst maximum farmers (80%) think agroforestry system should be expanded. This research indicates that agroforestry is a catalyst factor which can be adopted more through directed programs, policies and practices by government and its related agencies from this positive perceptions and attitudes of this research. Thus, agroforestry is a sustainable potential land use in the long term through combination of intrinsic and extrinsic factors interact and drive adoption can help integrating technologies appropriately to ensure sustainability adjacent to the coastal region of Sundarbans of Bangladesh.
Effect of Temperature, Storage Containers and Improved Hygiene on Microbial Safety and Chemical Quality of Traditional Meat Products
Authors: Dabasso Buke G. , Makokha Anselimo O. , Onyango Arnold N. , Mathara Julius M. , Badake Qabale D.
Published: September 2021

Preservation of meat and meat products is important due to its short shelf life and perishability. The pastoralists of Northern Kenya processed and preserved traditional meat products for consumption. The traditional meat products are relished food both for nutritional and cultural heritage among the Borana pastoralists. The study was carried out to assess the microbial safety and chemical quality of traditional meat products. The samples were collected immediately after processing and transported in a cool box to the food laboratory for microbial analysis and determination of changes related to lipid oxidation during storage for seven weeks at ambient temperature and at refrigerated temperature (5 °C). Microbiological quality of the samples was assessed by Total Viable Count (TVC), Escherichia coli count, Staphylococcus aureus count and yeast and mold count. Result showed that Staphylococcus aureus, yeasts and molds were detected in the products and there was increase of Staphylococcus aureus count from (1.44 log10 CFU/g) to (2.28 log10 CFU/g)) during storage at ambient temperature for seven weeks. Samples stored at refrigerated 5oC showed less counts of microbial load. The peroxide value, acid value and thiobarbituric acid levels were below the value associated with meat spoilage during the expected shelf life. Reduction of moisture during drying of traditional meat products and cooking of meat at high temperature contributed towards reduction of microbial load. However, poor handling and post contamination may lead to poor microbial quality of traditional meat products.
Farmers' Response on Field Performance of BSMRAU Developed IPSA Seem and BU Pepe1 Crop Variety
Authors: Afrad Md. Safiul Islam , Hossain Md. Amzad , Haque Md. Enamul , Hoque Md. Azizul , Hasan Shahriar , Saha Soumitra , Hoque Muhammad Ziaul
Published: September 2021

The study was conducted to investigate the adoption of IPSA seem and BU pepe1 crop variety by the farmers in Bhaluka upazila of Mymensingh and Meherpur Sadar upazila of Meherpur districts, respectively in Bangladesh. In-person interviews with 80 respondents and two focus group discussions were carried out to collect data. According to study findings, the highest portion of the respondents were young aged, literate, had medium farm size, low farming experience, and organizational participation and their average annual income were Tk. 192850 and Tk. 200500 for IPSA seem and BU pepe1 growers, respectively. Extent of adoption was above fifty percent in both cases of IPSA seem and BU pepe1 whereas the extent of BU pepe1 adoption was higher than IPSA seem. Performance of IPSA seem and BU pepe1 was satisfactory to the farmers in terms of ease of handling, better marketability and adaptation to the environment, vigor, and better physical appearance. Majority of the IPSA seem and BU pepe1 respondents experienced a medium increase in crop yield while medium to high-income increase by cultivating those varieties. Majority of them had a low to moderate knowledge gap in cultivating IPSA seem and BU pepe1. The major problems faced by the farmers were pod borer infestation, common mosaic virus for IPSA seem while low germination percentage, common mosaic virus for BU pepe1. The study results showed that respondents with small farm sizes were more interested in adopting IPSA seem than others. So, engaging small farmers in cultivating IPSA seem would make this technology more available and popular among the farmers.
Analysis of the Morphological Diversity of Inflorescence of Six Tunisian Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) Pollinators
Authors: Kadri K. , Abdelhafidh M. , Aounallah K.
Published: September 2021

Six Tunisian date palm pollinators were morphologically characterized at the inflorescence level. The aim was to assess the level of similarity between the spathe of the three flowering stages. Nineteen qualitative and quantitative characteristics were explored and subjected to multivariate analyzes. The results showed that inflorescences morphological similarity oscillated between 97.9 and 62.2% with an average of 80.1%, which testifies strong genetic relations among the six genotypes and among flowering stages/cycles within each genotype. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) analysis shows that weight of the spathe (SW), number of spathe (NS), shape of spathe (SS), total length of the spathe (TLS), shape of spikelets (SPS), number of spikelets per spathe (NS), These characteristics are defined by axis 1 and 2 which absorbing a total of 56.3% of total variability. Phylogenetic relationship analysis showed that two groups were distinguished by a high level of genetic similarity of inflorescences at each flowering stage. According to the analysis, the second flowering stage is the most distinguished morphologically with the highest sizes of the quantitative characteristics studied.
Analysis of Urban Expansion on Agricultural Food Production in Calabar, Nigeria
Authors: Oyinloye M. A. , Ogban U. M. , Aboyeji O. S.
Published: September 2021

Urban growth appears to have direct effects on the available agricultural land in and around urban area which in turn affects food production and other agricultural activities in the city. Indiscriminate urban growth and increasing losses of agricultural lands have become an issue in developing countries. The aim of this study is to use Remote Sensing and GIS to monitor the impact of urban expansion on agricultural food production in Calabar, Nigeria. Landsat images of 1986, 2003 and 2018 of Calabar municipal and Calabar South were obtained. The study employed supervised digital image classification method using ILWIS 3.2 and ArcGIS 10.2a software. GIS software was used to classify the landuse into built-up area, natural vegetation, bare soil, agricultural land and water bodies. Also, a set of structured questionnaire were administered using the stratified random sampling technique to elicit information on the socio economic and driven factors responsible for conversion of agricultural landuse, effect of urban expansion on agricultural food production and measures adopted to preserve agricultural land uses. The results revealed increase in urban expansion on food production over the periods (1986–2018). Recommendations were provided that will reduce the rate of urban expansion on agricultural food production in the study area.