bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Relationship of Online Brand Community, Value Creation Practices, Brand Trust, and Brand Loyalty
Authors: Mardhiyah Dien , Futuwwah Ali Imaduddin , Hilmi Mohd Faiz , Rosidi Dinda Oktaviona , Zain Nur Habiba
Published: December 2023

Objective: Companies are realizing the potential of the online brand community to increase consumer relationships. Online Brand community keeps customers using the company's products through all community activities. This study investigates the effect of the activity in the online brand community on value co-creation practices to create brand trust and brand loyalty.
Design/Methods/Approach: An online survey was conducted by distributing a questionnaire among 319 members of an online brand community. The collected data was analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM).
Findings: Online brand communities influence value co-creation practices (social networking, community engagement, impression management, and brand use). In this study, social networking and impression management influence brand trust and brand loyalty. However, community engagement and brand use do not affect brand trust. The role of brand trust affects the creation of brand loyalty in online brand community members.
Originality/Value: This study examines the effect of value co-creation practices in online brand communities on brand trust and brand loyalty in brand communities found in one country with a high collectivity level. Not all community value co-creation activities have the effect of creating brand trust due to conditions within the community.
Practical/Policy implication: The practical implication is to guide marketers to pay attention to some value co-creation activities in online brand communities that can create brand trust in brand communities with a high culture of collectivity. Companies understand the dynamics of online brand communities and relevant strategies in high collectivity cultures, as well as leveraging the potential of social networks while overcoming the challenges posed by the abundance of information on the internet.
What Drives Rahn Adoption?
Authors: Firmansyah Egi Arvian , Pratama Arif , Abror  , Salam Muhammad Abdus
Published: December 2023

Objective: Sharia pawning, or Rahn, is one of the Islamic financial products adopted by society to solve cash needs and have assets as collateral. Adoption of this product is limited in scholarly work. This study examines the effects of religiosity, service quality, and location on adopting Islamic (Sharia) pawning services.
Design/Methods/Approach: A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 200 Islamic bank customers. Both offline and online questionnaires were employed for data collection. SPSS 22 and SmartPLS 4.0 software were used to perform comprehensive data synthesis, confirmatory factor analysis, and rigorous hypothesis testing, fostering a data-driven approach to ensure the integrity and validity of this research.
Findings: The results show that only religiosity has a significant relationship with Rahn adoption. Location and service quality do not drive customers to use Rahn products. These results indicate the significant role of religious values in Rahn adoption.
Originality/value: This study contributes to the limited Islamic marketing literature on Rahn or Sharia pawnshops, primarily on the determinant of this financing adoption using the Indonesian context.
Practical/policy implications: Islamic pawnshops must emphasize Sharia compliance in the Rahn product provision because customers, primarily those in relatively religious regions, highly consider this aspect when using the pawnshop service.
Sustaining Talent: Reducing Employee Turnover at Tax Authority through Value Proposition and Social Identity
Authors: Taufan Andy , Rachmawati Riani
Published: December 2023

Objective: This study aims to investigate the factors influencing employee shortage in the public sector, specifically centering on employee's intentions to either remain in or leave the institution. It also aims to examine the impact of perceived benefits received by the employees, their fitness within the organization's social group, and their attachment to the institution on their decision. Design/Methods/Approach: This study was carried out on tax authority’s staffs through an online survey sent to potential participants and 388 eligible respondents. The data collected was analyzed using Covariance Based Structural Equation Modeling (CB-SEM). Findings: The findings reveal that employee value proposition and social identity negatively and significantly affect turnover intention. Both of them also positively and significantly affect employee engagement. Moreover, employee engagement only mediates the relationship between social identity and turnover intention. Originality/Value: The novelty of this study lies in the simultaneous utilization of employee value proposition and social identity, both influencing turnover intention. Previous studies primarily used social identity as a moderating variable, without combining these two variables, alongside employee engagement as a mediation variable. This study is particularly novel as it analyzes turnover intention among employees in a government institution, whereas prior studies have predominantly focused on the private sector. Practical/Policy implication: Managers should align their Employee Value Proposition (EVP) with employee expectations. They must provide developmental opportunities and supportive work environments, foster a strong social identity, and prioritize initiatives that enhance employee engagement, like meaningful work and recognition. These measures can effectively reduce turnover intentions.
Drainage rearrangement in semi-arid intermountain depressions: a case study in South America
Authors: Rodrigues Wesley Feitosa , Salgado André Augusto Rodrigues , Maia Rubson Pinheiro
Published: December 2023

River captures are drainage rearrangements commonly reported in divides of high topographic gradient, triggered by headward erosion. Captures also occur in divides of low topographic gradient through differential fluvial incision between rivers, however, in a smaller proportion of reports, mainly in dry regions. Thus, this research contributes to the theme by investigating possible river captures in the semi-arid equatorial margin of South America related to the Jaguaribe River, which flows over intermountain depressions. This study used morphological and sedimentary evidence obtained in field expeditions and by application of morphometrics (local relief, paleotopographic modelling and χ variable). Among the results, the following stand out: depressions drained by radial tributaries upstream of water gaps; opposing headwaters with relative extension that drain low-relief divides, damming fluvial-lacustrine sediments and transfers signatures of upstream areas. These data suggest drainage rearrangements and a possible endorheic phase during the study area evolution. Continuous incision of the Jaguaribe River conditioned river captures by rupture of paleodivides supported by structural ridges (shear zones). In this context, the drainage rearrangements were effective for the configuration of the Jaguaribe River, even in a region of low topographic gradient and water flow instability.
Bias Cahaya: Paradoks Pemberdayaan Masyarakat Pada Difabel Netra di Kota Banjarbaru
Authors: Sari Cherry Rabiullan , Hamid Ismar
Published: December 2023

Yayasan Kesejahteraan Tunanetra Nusantara and the Kompleks Disabilitas Banjarbaru are implementing empowerment programs for the visually impaired community in Banjarbaru City. This study aims to analyze the strategic approaches applied and the successes achieved by both institutions. This research uses a qualitative approach with a case study research design in two different locations. Data collection techniques include participant observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The results show that the empowerment programs for the visually impaired community from both institutions have not reached an ideal level of empowerment. The strategic approaches applied by both institutions include enabling and empowering approaches, while protecting approaches are not yet evident. Enabling or fostering an empowered climate is done through the provision of literacy spaces, information dissemination, and partnerships with the government and private sectors. Empowering activities are carried out through coaching and training in production and packaging, human resources, and technology. The empowerment programs carried out by both institutions have been able to increase the confidence and skills of visually impaired people to be self-reliant, which has resulted in increased income for some of those who have been empowered. However, protective efforts are not yet evident due to the unequal business competition that exists in both institutions. The approach used by YKTN and Pertuni has not always been able to improve the quality of life for blind people, but instead has made them lazy to make better use of themselves. The attitude of charity given by the community to the blind has made most of them more comfortable living on the streets by continuing to beg. Thus, there was a paradox of empowerment in the city of Banjarbaru.
Analisis Penyerapan Tenaga Kerja pada Sektor Industri Pengolahan Skala Sedang dan Besar di Kalimantan Selatan
Authors: Apriliana Apriliana , Sa’roni Chairul
Published: December 2023

This study aims to analyze the effect of the development of medium and small-scale manufacturing industries on the absorption of labor in South Kalimantan. The data used is secondary data from the Central Statistics Agency in 2006-2019, using time series analysis data. The results of the study show: 1) the minimum wage has a negative and significant effect on labor absorption in the medium and large-scale manufacturing sector; 2) the output value has a negative and insignificant effect on employment in the medium and large-scale manufacturing sector; and 3) the number of business units has a positive and significant effect on the absorption of labor in the medium and large-scale manufacturing sector.
Analisis Faktor-Faktor Yang Mempengaruhi Pendapatan Pedagang Di Pasar Los Batu Kabupaten Hulu Sungai Selatan
Authors: Nasiruddin Nasiruddin , Fahrati Eny
Published: December 2023

This research aims to know and explain the factors that influence the income of traders in Los Batu Market. The approach used in this research is descriptive quantitative. Total population: 307 people. This study took a sample of 38 people born using the Proportionate Stratified Random Sampling technique. Questionnaires and interviews were used for data collection techniques. The variables in this study are business capital (X1), education (X2), length of business (X3), working hours (X4), and traders' income (Y). Data analysis in this study used multiple linear regression (OLS), with a significance level of 5%. The results show that the variable that partially affects the income of Los Batu Market traders is venture capital (X1). In contrast, the variable level of education (X2), length of business (X3), and working hours (X4) do not significantly affect the income of market traders. Los Batu. Furthermore, the variables of business capital, education, length of business, and working hours greatly influence the income of Los Batu Market traders.
Analisis Pengaruh Inflasi, Kurs, dan Investasi Terhadap Ekspor Indonesia Tahun 2009 – 2018
Authors: Darain Nur Shofa , Nuryadin Muhammad Rusmin
Published: December 2023

This study was conducted to determine the effects of inflation, exchange rates, and investment on Indonesian exports in 2009–2018. Among the data used in this study are Indonesian inflation, US inflation, the middle rate of the US dollar, and investment, which includes domestic investment (PMDN) and foreign investment (PMA) on the value of Indonesia's exports. This study uses secondary data and data analysis techniques with multiple linear regression analysis. Based on the research that has been done, the results show that inflation, exchange rates, and investment have simultaneously had a significant effect on Indonesian exports from 2009–2018. Partially, the results show that both Indonesian and United States inflation and the United States dollar exchange rate had no significant effect on Indonesian exports in 2009–2018, and investment substantially impacted Indonesian exports in 2009–2018.
Pengaruh Produk Domestik Regional Bruto (PDRB), Belanja Modal dan Jumlah Penduduk Terhadap Penerimaan Pajak Daerah di Kabupaten Banjar
Authors: Nicola Rahmad Nanda , Saleh Muhammad
Published: December 2023

This study aims to determine the effect of GRDP, capital expenditure, and population on local tax revenues in Banjar Regency and to determine what factors are the most dominant influencing local tax revenues in Banjar Regency. This type of research is quantitative research using secondary time series data. The research location is in the qBanjar Regency, and the data that has been obtained is then carried out with multiple linear regression analysis using SPSS 26. The results of this study indicate that partially, GRDP, capital expenditure, and population have a significant effect on local tax revenues in Banjar Regency, GRDP, spending Capital, and people have a substantial impact on local tax revenues in Banjar Regency and the most dominant variable affecting local tax revenues is population.
STRENGTHENING STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING AS AN EFFORT TO IMPROVE SOCIAL COGNITIVE SKILLS IN SUPPORTING EDUCATION IN THE ERA OF INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION 4.0
Authors: Dinanty Najwa Shabrina
Published: December 2023

Peningkatan kemampuan berpikir kritis sebagai upaya peningkatan kemampuan penalaran kritis di era revolusi industri 4.0 jika dihubungkan dengan teori belajar sosial kognitif, permasalahan yang diangkat dalam artikel ini adalah kemampuan siswa/ individu dalam melakukan penalaran kritis. Kemampuan berpikir kritis dapat mendorong individu untuk berpikir secara logis, mampu menyampaikan ide, argument dengan baik dan dapat mengevaluasi ide secara logis. Kemampuan individu dalam berpikir kritis akan mempengaruhi kepribadian individu dalam bersikap, konsep diri dan kematangan perilaku. Individu yang memiliki konsep diri yang positif akan mempengaruhi keputusan dan tindakan mereka dalam bersikap, sebaliknya individu yang memiliki konsep diri yang negatif maka dirinya akan kesulitan dalam membuat keputusan dan tindakan. Salah satu potensi yang penting dimiliki individu, di era revolusi industri 4.0 persaingan kompetensi tidak hanya terjadi pada setingkat global maka kemampuan berpikir kritis perlu dikembangkan agar dapat menciptakan SDM yang unggul Program profil pelajar pancasila implementasi dari konsep belajar sepanjang hayat capaian adalah penanaman pendidikan karakter, nilai dan sikap tercermin pada 6 dimensi pada profil pelajar pancasila. Kemampuan berpikir dan bernalar kritis menjadi salah satu skill yang dikembangkan pada era revolusi industri 4.0.
COMPUTER MODELS OF INCANDENSCENT LAMPS
Authors: Kravchenko Igor , Mykytenko Volodymyr
Published: December 2023

The article is devoted to the research of existing and the development of new computer models of the hemispherical and normal spectral coefficient of emission of optical incandescent lamps. Optical lamps (filament electric lamp, FEL) remain a prevalent source of radiation in various optoelectronic systems today. They provide radiation in the ultraviolet, visible, near-infrared (IR-A, NIR), and mid-infrared (IR-B, SWIR) spectral ranges and have typical color temperatures of 2300 K, 2850 K, 3200 K.An analysis of two groups of existing FEL models was carried out.The models of the first group are oriented primarily for existing calibration and certification installations of optoelectronic systems.The models of the second group are more universal and comprehensive.They reproduce the element-by-element structure of the modeled optoelectronic system and use the physical and constructive parameters of significant elements in the modeled system. Planck's formula or Wien's approximation is the basis for all types of temperature source models. Existing models are designed for the visible range and the range of 0.34 μm – 2.6 μm for temperatures of 1600 K – 2800 K, which does not take into account all the capabilities of modern FELs.The aim of the work is to investigate known models and polynomial models for use in calculations of modern optical lamps with temperatures ranging from 2300 K to 3200 K across a wide range of wavelengths, including ultraviolet, IRA, and IR-B.The accuracy of the Larabi and Pon models has been analyzed and their parameters have been modified. The obtained dependencies ensure an increase in accuracy by 1.4 - 4 times.The accuracy and cost-effectiveness of polynomial models of the normal spectral coefficient of radiation in the ultraviolet, visible, IR-A and IR-B spectrum ranges were analyzed. Model coefficients have been calculated based on the criterion of minimizing the root mean square deviation. It has been demonstrated that, according to the criterion of average errors in the range of 0.23 μm - 2.7 μm, all dependencies have errors of less than 5 % throughout the entire range and provide a minimum of 5 correct digits.According to the criterion of maximum errors with a relative error of 5%, linear expressions cannot be applied, and an error of less than 1 % is provided only by cubic polynomials. A combined polynomial model was formed, which provides a methodological error of approximation of less than 1 % in all spectral sub-ranges, and in the visible range of 0.3 μm - 0.94 μm - less than 0.5 %.The time costs of the models are determined and the combined models are formed for use in processing systems with limited computing capabilities.
ELABORAÇÃO DE UM PROTOCOLO DE RESTAURAÇÃO DE PEÇAS ANATÔMICAS UTILIZADAS NO PROCESSO DE ENSINO-APRENDIZAGEM DE ANATOMIA HUMANA DA UNIVERSIDADE FEDERAL DO TOCANTINS, CÂMPUS DE PALMAS
Authors: Eustáquio Lacerda Giovana , Ortega Coelho Thomazi Gabriela , Rodrigues Nepomuceno Victor , Vasconcelos da Silva Ediana , De Abreu Tainá
Published: December 2023

A utilização de cadáveres humanos é o meio didático preferível para o estudo da Anatomia Humana pela fidedignidade ao corpo vivo. O processo de obtenção dos mesmos para fins educacionais é complexo. Diante destas dificuldades, o Laboratório de Anatomia Humana (LAH) da Universidade Federal do Tocantins, campus de Palmas, se compunha de grande quantidade de peças cadavéricas desgastadas. A fim de otimizar o processo de ensino-aprendizagem anatômico e valorizar o cadáver concedido, realizou-se a elaboração de um protocolo para restauração das peças anatômicas. As etapas metodológicas desta proposta foram: catalogação, diagnóstico, seleção e restauração das peças cadavéricas, com a utilização de osteotécnica completa ou adaptada, com diferentes processos de maceração, e a secção de peças. Foram selecionadas 45 peças do LAH para aprimoramento. A maceração com água e por cocção possibilitou um maior aproveitamento das estruturas, a osteotécnica modificada resultou em peças úmidas articuladas e as secções forneceram materiais didáticos inéditos. Diante dos resultados obtidos, observou-se a melhora na qualidade das peças restauradas. Este protocolo beneficiará de modo exponencial a qualidade das aulas práticas de anatomia, das atividades de extensão e pesquisa, além reafirmar respeito aos corpos cadavéricos confiados ao estudo da Anatomia Humana.
Finding an Unique and “Natural” Extension of the Expected Value That Is Finite for All Functions in Non-Shy Subset of the Set of All Measurable Functions
Authors: Krishnan Bharath
Published: December 2023

Suppose for n∈ ℕ, set A⊆ℝⁿ and function f∶A→ℝⁿ. If set A is Borel; we want to find an unique and “natural” extension of the expected value, w.r.t the Hausdorff measure, that's finite for all f in a non-shy subset of ℝᴬ. The issue is current extensions of the expected value are finite for all functions in only a shy subset of ℝᴬ. The reason this issue wasn't resolved is mathematicians have not thought of the problem, focusing on application rather than generalization. Despite the lack of potential use, we'll attempt to solve the problem by defining a choice function---this shall choose a unique set of equivalent sequences of sets (Fₖ***) , where the set-theoretic limit of Fₖ*** is the graph of f; the measure Hʰ is the ℎ-Hausdorff measure, such for each k∈ℕ, 0 < Hʰ(Fₖ***) < +∞; and (fₖ*) is a sequence of functions where {(x,fₖ*(x))∶x∈ dom(Fₖ***)}=Fₖ***. Thus, if (Fₖ***) converges to A at a rate linear or super-linear to the rate non-equivelant sequences of sets converge, the extended expected value of or E**[f,Fₖ***] is: ∀(ε>0)∃(N∈ℕ)∀(k∈N)(k≥N⇒1/Hʰ(dom(Fₖ***))∫dom(Fₖ*** )fₖ* dHʰ - E**[f,Fₖ***]<ε ) which should be unique and “natural” extension (defined on §2.3 & §2.4) for all f in a non-shy subset of ℝᴬ. Note we guessed the choice function using computer programming but we don’t use mathematical proofs due to the lack of expertise in the subject matter. Despite this, the biggest use of this research is the extension of the expected value is finite for "almost all" functions: this is easier to use in application when finding the "average" of functions covering an infinite expanse of space.
Assessing the Psychological Impact of Generative AI on Computer and Data Science Education: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Pinto Pedro Henrique Ramos , Araujo Vitor Meneghetti Ugulino de , Ferreira Junior Cleydson de Souza , Goulart Lutero Lima , Aguiar Gabriel Silva , Beltrão João Vitor Cardoso , Lira Paloma Duarte de , Mendes Samuel José Fernandes , Monteiro Filipe de Lima Vaz , Avelino Erlon Lacerda
Published: December 2023

The integration of AI in educational settings, particularly through Large Language Models (LLMs), is accelerating, reshaping pedagogical approaches due to students' interactions with new learning tools. This study assesses the impact of generative AI on the educational experiences of computer and data science students at the Center for Informatics, University of Paraíba (CI/UFPB), Brazil. Through Exploratory Factorial Analysis (EFA) of five psychometric scales, the research examines students' acceptance of LLMs, their associated burnout levels, technology anxiety, and the prevalence of metacognitive and dysfunctional learning strategies associated with LLMs. Results indicate significant adoption of AI technologies among students, accompanied by a low incidence of technology anxiety, manifesting as fears of losing jobs to AI. However, a significant correlation was observed between academic burnout and dysfunctional learning strategies, which could likely be attributed to the rigorous academic environment. Additionally, the employment of metacognitive strategies in conjunction with LLMs reflects an advanced learning approach, yet challenges with functional learning strategies persist. This study contributes to the discourse on AI in education, highlighting the need for educational frameworks that support effective AI adoption while addressing the psychological demands on students.
The Past, Present and Future in the Diagnosis of a Neglected Sexually Transmitted Infection: Trichomoniasis
Authors: Ibáñez-Escribano Alexandra , Nogal-Ruiz Juan José
Published: December 2023

More than one million curable sexually transmitted infections occur every day. Trichomonas vaginalis is one of the main responsible for these epidemiological data, however, the diagnosis of this protozoan is still mainly based on microscopic and culture identification. The commerciali-zation of immunological tests and the development of molecular techniques have improved the sensitivity of classical methods. Nevertheless, the fact that trichomoniasis is a neglected parasitic infection, hinders the development of novel techniques and their implementation in routine di-agnosis. This review article shows the different methods developed to identify T. vaginalis in population and the difficulties to diagnose male and asymptomatic patients. The importance of including this parasite in routine gynecological screening, especially in pregnant women, and the importance of considering T. vaginalis as an indicator of high-risk sexual behavior is also discussed.
Reanalysis of Trio Whole Genome Sequencing Data Doubles the Yield in Autism Spectrum Disorder: De Novo Variants Present in Half
Authors: Bar Omri , Vahey Elizabeth , Mintz Mark , Frye Richard E , Boles Richard G
Published: December 2023

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a common condition with lifelong implications. The last decade has seen dramatic improvements in DNA sequencing and related bioinformatics and databases. We analyzed the raw DNA sequencing files on the Variantyx® bioinformatics platform for the last 50 ASD patients evaluated with trio whole genome sequencing (trio-WGS). “Qualified” variants were defined as coding, rare, and evolutionarily conserved. Primary Diagnostic Variants (PDV) additionally were in genes directly linked to ASD and matched clinical correlation. A PDV was identified in 34/50 (68%) of cases, including 25 (50%) cases with heterozygous de novo and 10 (20%) with inherited variants. De novo variants in genes directly associated with ASD were far more likely to be Qualifying than non-Qualifying versus a control group of genes (P=0.0002), validating that most are indeed disease related. Sequence reanalysis increased diagnostic yield from 28% to 68%, mostly by inclusion of de novo PDVs in genes not yet reported as ASD associated. Thirty-three subjects (66%) had treatment recommendation(s) based on DNA analyses. Our results demonstrate high yield of trio-WGS for revealing molecular diagnoses in ASD that is greatly enhanced by re-analyzing DNA sequencing files. In contrast to previous reports, de novo variants dominate the findings, mostly representing novel conditions. This has implications to the cause and rising prevalence of autism.
Evaluation of Handheld Mobile Laser Scanner Systems for the Definition of Fuel Types in Structurally Complex Mediterranean Forest Stands
Authors: Hoffrén Raúl , Lamelas María Teresa , de la Riva Juan
Published: December 2023

The exposure of Mediterranean forests to large wildfires requires mechanisms to prevent and mitigate their negative effects on the territory and ecosystems. Fuel models synthesize the complexity and heterogeneity of forest fuels and allow understanding and modelling of fire behavior. However, it is sometimes challenging to define the fuel type in a structurally heterogeneous forest stand due to the mixture of characteristics from different types and limitations of qualitative field observation and passive and active airborne remote sensing. This can impact the performance of classification models that rely on in situ identification of fuel type as ground-truth, which can lead to a mistaken prediction of fuel types over larger areas in fire prediction models. In this study, a handheld mobile laser scanner (HMLS) system were used to assess its capability to define Prometheus fuel types in 43 forest plots in Aragón (NE Spain). The HMLS system captured the vertical and horizontal distribution of fuel at extremely high resolution to derive high-density three-dimensional point clouds (average: 63,148 points/m2) which were discretized into voxels of 0.05 m3. The total number of voxels in each 5 cm height stratum was calculated to quantify the fuel volume in each stratum, providing the vertical distribution of fuels (m3/m2) for each plot at centimetric scale. Additionally, fuel volume was computed for each Prometheus height stratum (0.60, 2, and 4 m) for each plot. The Prometheus fuel types were satisfactory identified for each plot, which was compared with the fuel type estimated in the field. This led to the modification of the ground-truth in 10 out of the 43 plots, with estimation errors between types 2–3, 5–6, and 6–7. These results demonstrate the ability of HMLS systems to capture fuel heterogeneity at centimetric scales for the definition of fuel types in Mediterranean forests, making them powerful tools for fuel mapping and fire modelling, and ultimately for improving wildfire prevention and forest management.
Institutionalization and Legislation of Organic Production in Brazil
Authors: Prieto Lucas Bio Martin , Hata Fernando Teruhiko , Ferreira Nilson Zacarias Bernabe , Ventura Maurício Ursi , Da Costa Antonio Carlos Saraiva
Published: December 2023

Starting 1994, the debate for regulating organic agriculture in Brazil was officially recognized in May 1999. Still, only in 2003, when the law # 10,831 was instituted, the country reached an effective milestone on organic production, both internally and externally. Since the industry regulation, the legislation underwent many modifications, constantly reviewing and adjusting. The current study examined the institutionalization of organic production in Brazil and what the current regulations can be used as a reference for those interested in this sector. The most recent update of Organic legislation and its implication on practice were also discussed. A case study on production of strawberry in organic system is presented and discussed.
Mobile Measurements in the Urban Thermal Environment Using Bicycles: A Systematic Review
Authors: Writzl Luana , Wollmann Cassio Arthur , Costa Iago Turba , Iensse Amanda Comassetto , Silva Aline Nunes da , Baumhardt Otavio de Freitas , Gobo João Paulo Assis , Shooshtarian Salman , Matzarakis Andreas
Published: December 2023

This study concerns in to collect, via a systematic review, works from international academics that employed bicycles to collect primary data on environmental variables for research on microclimatic thermal problems in urban contexts. To that purpose, a systematic review was con-ducted employing several important processes that favor the collecting of relevant material from three well-regarded worldwide academic platforms using well-defined keywords. A selection of papers identified through the platforms was produced, and after reading the titles, abstracts, and entire works, 13 articles were collected that employed bicycles in their mobile transects between 2011 and 2023. The analytical methodologies connected to the thermal environment employed by the research, such as the primary characterizers of urban morphology, were visible from this. The systematic review showed effective in attempting to comprehend current research in the scientific community that employed the approach of mobile measurements using bicycles. The great bulk of work was done in the Northern Hemisphere, specifically on the European continent. Furthermore, it was discovered that the number of publications published using this approach has increased in the previous two years. It is worth emphasizing that, while the platforms offer outstanding results in terms of article discovery, we are nevertheless aware of additional publications that employed similar technique but did not appear in the platforms' results. More study utilizing the bicycle is anticipated for, so that the process may be improved and the precision of future results can be reached.
Exploring The Synergistic Effects Of Abuscular Mychorrhiza Fungi On Plant Development Under Abiotic Stress.
Authors: AJAYI O. O. , Koletowo F. , ADEDEJI T. , OGWUGWA V. H.
Published: December 2023

Plant growth and productivity are hindered by abiotic stresses. Crop productivity and the ecosystem are suffering due to climate change and harmful farming practices. We urgently need to use environment-friendly techniques like Arbuscular Mychorriza Fungi (AMF) to improve crop productivity. It is a well-established fact that AMF are effective bio-fertilizers. It is believed that AMF injections can increase plant resilience to stressors like heat,metals, salt, drought, and extreme temperatures. AMF aids in enhancing tolerance mechanisms and safeguarding essential metabolic pathways. AMF, as natural root symbionts, give plants important inorganic nutrients, helping them grow better, produce more, and acclimatize even under stress. AMF acts as a bio-fertilizer, boosting plants’ ability to adjust to different environments. Thus, researchers need to conduct further studies on how AMF promotes crop quality and productivity. This review describes the current understanding of AMF’s impact on host plants at their different growth stage, their benefits, applications, and the significance of plant nutrient relationships with AMF.
Visual Perception Optimization of Residential Leisure Space in Cold Regions Using Virtual Reality and Machine Learning
Authors: Li Xueshun , Huang Kuntong , Zhang Ruinan , Chen Yang , Dong Yu
Published: December 2023

The visual perception of leisure spaces between residences in cold regions is important for public health. To compensate for the existing researches` lack of ignoring the cold snow season`s influence, this study selected two types of outdoor leisure space environments in non-snow and snow seasons as research objects. An eye tracker combined with a Semantic Difference (SD) questionnaire was used to verify the feasibility of the application of virtual reality technology, screen out leisure gaze characteristics, and reveal the environmental factors related to leisure visual perception. In snow season, spatial aspect ratio (SAR), building elevation saturation (BS), and grass proportion in the field of view (GP) showed strong correlation to the leisure visual perception scores (W). In non-snow season, apart from the above three factors, roof height difference (RHD), tall tree height (TTH) and color contrast (HC) also influenced W obviously. The effects of factors on W were revealed in immersive virtual en-vironment (IVE) orthogonal experiments and genetic algorithm (GA) and k-nearest neighbor algorithm (KNN) were combined to optimized the environmental factors. The optimized threshold ranges in the non-snow season environment were SAR: 1.82‒2.15, RHD: 10.81 m‒20.09 m, BS: 48.53‒61.01, TTH: 14.18 m‒18.29 m, GP: 0.12‒0.15, and HC: 18.64‒26.83. In the snow season environment, the optimized threshold ranges were SAR: 2.22‒2.54, BS: 68.47‒82.34, and GP: 0.1‒0.14.
First Evidence of Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus Circulation in Libya
Authors: Elkhoja Hania , Buishi Imad , Brocchi Emiliana , Grazioli Santina , Mahmoud Abdusalam , Eldaghayes Ibrahim , Dayhum Abdunaser
Published: December 2023

The epidemiological patterns of Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVD) in North Africa and Mediterranean Basin (MB) are endemic with highly socio-economic impacts. The objective of the study was conducted to investigate the level of sero-prevalence of BVDV in Libya and the associated risk factor. A total of 1599 serum samples were collected from herds of cattle which belonging to seven Libyan regions. All sera were assayed by using screening ELISA assay for detection of antibodies against BVDV. An overall seroprevalence of BVDV was estimated to be 48.6% (95% CI, 46.08%-50.98%). Considering the age group, a seroprevalence of 36.8% was detected in cattle <1 year, 41.0% in cattle between 1 and 2 years of age and 48.6% in cattle aged more than 2 years. Statistically significant differences (p<0.001) between age groups were reported. Seroprevalence of BVDV was significantly associated with geographical region (P=0.033). This is the first study on BVD in Libya and the results of this study would suggest that BVD is endemic in Libya.
Reputation and Quality Aware Incentive Mechanism for Mobile Crowd Sensing Using Smart Devices
Authors: Shahzadi Irum , Ashraf Humaira , Ihsan Uswa , Jhanjhi NZ
Published: December 2023

The Internet of Things (also known as IoT), a revolution, has enhanced the relevance of mobile employees' job efficiency in mobile crowd sensing (MCS). Incentives based on reputation for mobile workers (MW) play an important role in increasing service utilization, motivating mobile employees, and developing confidence in the service. The cell phone is the most exploited entity in mobile crowd-sensing MCS and cloud computing. In the underlying investigation, we observed that they had not evaluated the complexity level of a task, resulting in a strong reputation for executing multiple basic tasks. A person who completes a tough task may have a lower reputation score. Complexity levels of tasks (CLT) were developed for reputation evaluation on a crowd-sensing network, which would be utilized to evaluate the MW reputation. We offered simple and complex levels of challenges to assess reputation scores. Tasks receive incentives based on their reputation. By measuring reputation on (CLT) complexity level of task, this research will help the system to Maintain the reputation of the mobile worker so that entities of the system get the maximum benefit out of it, by hiring well-reputed mobile workers and MW receive an incentive on it. Furthermore, we conduct a comparative analysis between our scheme and various machine learning algorithms to identify the algorithm that best performs in evaluating task complexity. Considering both the simple and complex reputation scores, the comparison suggests that after analyzing the data, it is clear that the CLT (proposed) scheme and the Linear regression scheme not only outperformed the Neural Network scheme in terms of Complex Reputation Scores but also in terms of Simple Reputation Scores. We also apply statistical tests, such as p-tests and t-tests, to determine the significance of the results obtained from different algorithms. Considering MW 308, MW 345, and MW 1045's efforts and abilities, the MCS system may offer incentives and awards to further motivate and consider their continuing contributions. This reputation-based incentivization technique not only encourages strong competition among mobile workers, but also makes sure the delivery of high-quality services inside the MCS system.
Exploring SVA Insertion Polymorphisms in Shaping Differential Gene Expression in the Central Nervous System
Authors: Hughes Lauren S , Fröhlich Alexander , Pfaff Abigail L , Bubb Vivien J , Quinn John P , Kõks Sulev
Published: December 2023

Transposable elements (TEs) are repetitive elements which make up around 45% of the human genome. A class of TEs known as SINE-VNTR-Alu (SVA) demonstrate the capacity to mobilise throughout the genome, resulting in SVA polymorphisms for presence or absence within the population. Although studies have previously highlighted the involvement of TEs within neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), however the exact mechanism has yet to be identified. In this study we used whole genome sequencing and RNA sequencing data of ALS patients and healthy controls from the New York Genome Center ALS Consortium, to elucidate the influence of reference SVA elements on gene expression genome-wide within central nervous system (CNS) tissues. To investigate this, we applied matrix expression quantitative trait loci analysis and demonstrated that reference SVA insertion polymorphisms can significantly modulate the expression of numerous genes, preferentially in the trans position, and in a tissue-specific manner. We also highlight that SVAs significantly regulate mitochondrial genes as well as genes within the HLA and MAPT loci, previously associated within neurodegenerative disease. In conclusion, this study continues to bring to light the effects of polymorphic SVAs on gene regulation and further highlights the importance of TEs within disease pathology.
On the Intrinsic Properties Effects of the Heater Surface in Nucleate Pool Boiling: A Simulation Study
Authors: Mazzitello Karina , Masson Viviana , Marcel Christian
Published: December 2023

This study explores how the properties of heater materials impact nucleate pool boiling using a comprehensive simulation model. The model integrates well-known heat transfer mechanisms, allowing us to assess the effects of two distinct heater materials. Findings indicate that materials with higher thermal conductivity, such as copper, notably improve refrigeration efficiency in nucle- ate boiling. The study provides insights into the relationship between bubble growth, microlayer recovery beneath a bubble, temperature fluctuations, and heater properties. Comparisons between copper and silicon oxide underscore variations in bubble frequency, attributed to differences in bubble growth time, microlayer recovery time, and material-dependent behavior. The influence of neighboring bubbling sites, especially pronounced in silicon oxide due to its low thermal conductivity and diffusivity, was observed. Temperature variations in such materials became highly visible due to their significant inertia in recovery. Simulation results align well with empirical correlations, confirming the model’s versatility in capturing the intricate phenomena of nucleate pool boiling.
Persistent β-Hexachlorocyclohexane Exposure Impacts Cellular Metabolism With a Specific Signature in the Human Normal Melanocytes: Implication in Melanomagenesis
Authors: Papaccio Federica , Caputo Silvia , Iorio Alessandra , De Simone Paola , Ottaviani Monica , Del Brocco Antonella , Frascione Pasquale , Bellei Barbara
Published: December 2023

Background: Cutaneous melanoma arises from skin melanocytes and has a high risk of metastatic spread. Despite better prevention, earlier detection, and the development of innovative therapies melanoma incidence and mortality increase annually. Major clinical risk factors for melanoma include fair skin, an increased number of nevi, the presence of dysplastic nevi, and a family history of melanoma. However, several external inducers seem to be associated with melanoma susceptibility such as environmental exposure, primarily unprotected sun experience, alcohol consumption, and heavy metals. In recent years, epidemiological studies have highlighted a potential risk of β-hexachlorocyclohexane (β-HCH), the most studied organochlorine pesticide, on cancer induction including melanoma. Methods: We evaluated in vitro the impact of this pollutant on epidermal and dermal cells, attempting to describe mechanisms that could render cutaneous cells more prone to oncogenic transformation. Results: We demonstrated that β-HCH impacts melanocyte biology with a highly cell-type specific signature that involves perturbation of AKT/mTOR and Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and AMPK activation that converges in lowering energy reserve, cell proliferation, and pigment production. Conclusion: In conclusion, long-term exposure to persistent organic pollutants damages melanocyte metabolism in the function of the melanin content with a consequent reduction of melanogenesis indicating a potential augmented skin cancer risk.
Research on the Technological Progress of CZT Array Detectors
Authors: Li Zhangwen , Cheng Jinxing , Liu Fang , Wang Qingbo , Wen Wei-Wei , Huang Guangwei , Wu Zeqian
Published: December 2023

CdZnTe (CZT) is a new type of compound semiconductor that has emerged in recent years. Compared to other semiconductor materials, it possesses an ideal bandgap, high density, and high electron mobility, rendering it an excellent room-temperature composite semiconductor material for X-ray and γ-ray detectors. Due to the exceptional performance of CZT material, detectors manufactured using it exhibit high energy resolution, spatial resolution, and detection efficiency. They also have the advantage of operating at room temperature. CZT array detectors, furthermore, demonstrate outstanding spatial detection and three-dimensional imaging capabilities. Researchers worldwide have conducted extensive studies on this subject. This paper, building upon this foundation, provides a comprehensive analysis of CZT crystals and CZT array detectors, summarizes existing research to offer valuable insights for envisioning new detector methodologies.
Effect of New Methods for Inhibiting Malolactic Fermentation on the Analytical and Sensory Parameters of Wines
Authors: Prusova Bozena , Licek Josef , Kumsta Michal , Baron Mojmir , Sochor Jiri
Published: December 2023

The study focuses on the impact of new methods for inhibiting malolactic fermentation in white wines on their analytical and sensory properties. Enological preparations with different mecha-nisms of effect were tested: fumaric acid, chitosan, Estaan (a preparation based on tannin inhibi-tion), medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA), sulphur dioxide and a control variant where malolactic fermentation (MLF) was performed. The samples underwent analysis through HPLC (high-performance liquid chromatography) to determine concentrations of malic and lactic acid, as well as biogenic amines. GC (gas chromatography) analysis was used to monitor volatile sub-stances, alongside sensory evaluation. The study demonstrated a significant influence of indi-vidual enological preparations on the aromatic profile of the examined wines. The SO2 and MCFA variants exhibited the highest concentrations of volatile substances within the esters group, spe-cifically isoamyl acetate, 1-hexyl acetate and phenylethyl acetate. Conversely, the fumaric acid and Estaan variants displayed the lowest concentrations of these esters. The most notable disparities were observed in acetoin concentration, with the MCFA variant exhibiting the lowest values. Additionally, the chitosan variant showed higher concentrations of putrescine and spermidine compared to the MCFA and fumaric acid variants, which presented the lowest levels.
Students-Centered Assessment Research on Holographic Learning Paradigm Based on Intelligent Analytic Hierarchy Process in Teaching of Bridge Engineering Course
Authors: Duan Maojun , Dong Fenghui , Wang Jiaqing
Published: December 2023

The key to building a strong bridge country lies in talent, and the foundation lies in education. The cultivation of bridge engineering talents is related to the future and destiny of building a strong bridge country. This course adopts the educational philosophy of "holographic teaching method" centered on the comprehensive development of students, cultivating "engineering thinking" guided by engineering education certification, enhancing "abilities and qualities" through professional knowledge, reconstructing the course knowledge content system through engineering philosophy thinking, and implementing the ideological and political construction of the course in a multi-level unified manner of "explicit + implicit". Based on restructuring the course content system, we will strengthen the construction of diversified course resources, integrate theory with practice throughout the entire process of the course, practice the concept of "bridge architects + bridge engineers" parallel development, and cultivate cross-border and compound talents with comprehensive qualities of "engineering + art + humanities".
Modified Crosstalk between Phytohormones in Arabidopsis Mutants for PEP-Associated Proteins
Authors: Bychkov Ivan A. , Andreeva Aleksandra A. , Vankova Radomira , Lacek Jozef , Kudryakova Natalia V. , Kusnetsov Victor V.
Published: December 2023

Plastid-encoded RNA polymerase (PEP) forms a multisubunit complex in operating chloroplasts, where PEP subunits and a sigma factor are tightly associated with 12 additional nuclear-encoded proteins. Mutants with disrupted genes encoding PEP-associated proteins (PAPs) provide unique tools for deciphering mutual relationships among phytohormones. A block of chloroplast biogenesis in Arabidopsis pap mutants specifying highly altered metabolism in white tissues induced dramatic fluctuations in the content of major phytohormones and their metabolic genes, whereas hormone signaling circuits mostly remained functional. Reprogramming of the expression of biosynthetic and metabolic genes contributed to a greatly increased content of salicylic acid (SA) and a concomitant decrease in 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) and oxophytodienoic acid (OPDA), precursors of ethylene and jasmonic acid, respectively, in parallel to reduced levels of abscisic acid (ABA). The lack of differences in the free levels of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) between the pap mutants and wild-type plants was accompanied by fluctuations in the contents of IAA precursors and conjugated forms as well as multilayered changes in the expression of IAA metabolic genes. Along with cytokinin (CK) overproduction, all of these compensatory changes aim to balance plant growth and defense systems to ensure viability under highly modulated conditions.