bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Enterprise Decarbonization Scheme Based on Grey-MEREC-MAIRCA Hybrid MCDM Method
Authors: Esangbedo Moses Olabhele , Tang Mingcheng
Published: August 2023

Engineering and technological breakthroughs in sustainability play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions. An important aspect of this is the active participation of enterprises in addressing carbon reduction as a systemic approach. In response to government incentives in the People’s Republic of China, Chinese enterprises have developed carbon reduction systems to align their organizational goals with national long-term plans. This paper evaluates the carbon reduction schemes employed by six companies as a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) problem. To this end, we propose a new hybrid MCDM method called the grey-MEREC-MAIRCA method. This method combines the recently developed method based on the removal effects of criteria (MEREC) for weighting and multi-attribute ideal-real comparative analysis (MAIRCA) based on the grey system theory. The proposed hybrid method provides the additional benefit of accounting for uncertainty in decision making. Notable findings of this research, based on the decision-maker scores, are that the control of direct carbon emissions and energy-saving efficiency are top priorities. In contrast, committing to corporate social responsibility through carbon public welfare and information disclosure are considered lesser priorities. Furthermore, the ranking results obtained using this method are compared with those from the classical weighted sum model and the technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS), confirming the selection of the best company. Despite the limitation of the proposed method and the additional steps needed in the evaluation, it opens up opportunities for future research to develop simpler MCDM methods under uncertainty.
Laboratory Based Surveillance of HIV-1 Acquired Drug Resistance in Cameroon: Implications for Use of Tenofovir-Lamivudine-Dolutegravir (TLD) as Second- or Third-Line Regimens
Authors: Fokam Joseph , Chenwi Collins Ambe , Takou Desire , Santoro Maria Mercedes , Tala Valere , Teto George , Beloumou Grace , Semengue Ezechiel Ngoufack Jagni , Dambaya Beatrice , Djupsa Sandrine , Kembou Etienne , Bouba Nounouce Pamen , Ajeh Rogers , Cappelli Giulia , Mbanya Dora , Colizzi Vittorio , Ceccherini-Silberstein Francesca , Perno Carlo-Federico , Ndjolo Alexis
Published: August 2023

Increased HIV drug resistance (HIVDR) with antiretroviral therapy (ART) rollout may jeopardize therapeutic options, especially in this era of transition to fixed-dose tenofovir-lamivudine-dolutegravir (TLD). We studied acquired HIVDR (ADR) patterns and describe potentially active drugs after first- and second-line failure in resource-limited settings (RLS) like Cameroon. A laboratory-based study with 759 patients (≥15 years) experiencing virological failure was carried out at the Chantal Biya International Reference Centre (CIRCB), Yaoundé, Cameroon. Socio-demographic, therapeutic and immunovirological data from patient records were analysed according to HIV-1 genotypic profiles. Median (IQR) ART-duration was 63 (50–308) months. Median CD4 and viremia were 153 (IQR:50–308) cells/mm3 and 138,666 (IQR:28,979–533,066) copies/mL, respectively. Overall ADR was high (93.4% first-line; 92.9%-second-line). TDF, potentially active in 35.7% of participants after first-line and 45.1% after second-line, suggested sub-optimal TLD-efficacy in second-line (64.3%) and third-line (54.9%). All PI/r preserved high efficacy after first-line failure while only DRV/r preserved high-level efficacy (87.9%) after second-line failure. In this resource-limited setting (RLS), ADR is high in ART-failing patients. PI/r strategies remain potent backbones for second-line ART, while only DRV/r remains very potent despite second-line failure. Though TLD use would be preferable, blind use for second- and third-line regimens may be sub-optimal (functional monotherapy with dolutegravir) with high risk of further failure, thus suggesting strategies for selective ART switch to TLD in failing patients in RLS.
Temporal Dynamics of Serum Perforin and Granzyme during the Acute Phase of SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Rahman MD Tazikur , Ryu Sukhyun , Achangwa Chiara , Hwang Joo-Hee , Hwang Jeong-Hwan , Lee Chang-Seop
Published: August 2023

Background: As many SARS-CoV-2 infections are asymptomatic, it could be useful to be able to determine how much time has passed since infection. We explored the changes in the temporal levels of T cell-related proteins (including perforin and granzymes) in the sera of patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection using a commercially available assay. Methods: This study enrolled 36 patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 and 20 healthy control participants. Blood samples were collected at three different times based on the number of days since symptom onset (early phase: 1–5 days, mid-phase: 6–10 days, late phase: 11–18 days). We assessed the temporal changes in the serum levels of perforin and granzymes in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection by comparing the results with those obtained in the healthy control group. Results: We identified a significantly low level of perforin in the early phase of SARS-CoV-2 infection (p < 0.01), which was restored to normal during the mid- and late phases of the infection. However, there was no difference in the temporal change in the level of granzymes in SARS-CoV-2-infected patients compared to the healthy control group. Conclusions: This finding suggests that SARS-CoV-2 infection paralyzed the perforin expression in the early period immediately after infection. Thus, serum perforin is a potential marker for identifying the acute phase of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
The Effect of Previous Exposure to Malaria Infection and Clinical Malaria Episodes on the Immune Response to the Two-Dose Ad26.ZEBOV, MVA-BN-Filo Ebola Vaccine Regimen
Authors: Manno Daniela , Patterson Catriona , Drammeh Abdoulie , Tetteh Kevin , Kroma Mattu Tehtor , Otieno Godfrey Tuda , Lawal Bolarinde Joseph , Soremekun Seyi , Ayieko Philip , Gaddah Auguste , Kamara Abu Bakarr , Baiden Frank , Afolabi Muhammed Olanrewaju , Tindanbil Daniel , Owusu-Kyei Kwabena , Ishola David , Deen Gibrilla Fadlu , Keshinro Babajide , Njie Yusupha , Samai Mohamed , Lowe Brett , Robinson Cynthia , Leigh Bailah , Drakeley Chris , Greenwood Brian , Watson-Jones Deborah
Published: August 2023

We assessed whether the immunogenicity of the two-dose Ad26.ZEBOV, MVA-BN-Filo Ebola vaccine regimen with a 56-day interval between doses was affected by exposure to malaria before dose 1 vaccination and by clinical episodes of malaria in the period immediately after dose 1 and after dose 2 vaccinations. Previous malaria exposure in participants in an Ebola vaccine trial in Sierra Leone (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02509494) was classified as low, intermediate, and high according to their antibody responses to a panel of Plasmodium falciparum antigens detected using a Luminex MAGPIX platform. Clinical malaria episodes after vaccinations were recorded as part of the trial safety monitoring. Binding antibody responses against the Ebola virus (EBOV) glycoprotein (GP) were measured 57 days post dose 1 and 21 days post dose 2 by ELISA and summarized as Geometric Mean Concentrations (GMCs). Geometric Mean Ratios (GMRs) were used to compare groups with different levels of exposure to malaria. Overall, 587 participants, comprising 188 (32%) adults (aged ≥ 18 years) and 399 (68%) children (aged 1–3, 4–11, and 12–17 years), were included in the analysis. There was no evidence that the anti-EBOV-GP antibody GMCs post dose 1 and post dose 2 differed between categories of previous malaria exposure. There was weak evidence that the GMC at 57 days post dose 1 was lower in participants who had had at least one episode of clinical malaria post dose 1 compared to participants with no diagnosed clinical malaria in the same period (GMR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.69–0.98, p-value = 0.02). However, GMC post dose 2 was not reduced in participants who experienced clinical malaria post-dose 1 and/or post-dose 2 vaccinations. In conclusion, the Ad26.ZEBOV, MVA-BN-Filo Ebola vaccine regimen is immunogenic in individuals with previous exposure to malaria and in those who experience clinical malaria after vaccination. This vaccine regimen is suitable for prophylaxis against Ebola virus disease in malaria-endemic regions.
Influenza H7N9 Virus Hemagglutinin with T169A Mutation Possesses Enhanced Thermostability and Provides Effective Immune Protection against Lethal H7N9 Virus Challenge in Chickens
Authors: Chen Taoran , Kong Dexin , Hu Xiaolong , Gao Yinze , Lin Shaorong , Liao Ming , Fan Huiying
Published: August 2023

H7N9 avian influenza virus (AIV) has caused huge losses in the poultry industry and impacted human public health security, and still poses a potential threat. Currently, immune prevention and control of avian influenza relies on traditional inactivated vaccines; however, they have some limitations and genetically engineered avian influenza subunit vaccines may be potential candidate vaccines. In this study, a T169A mutation in the HA protein derived from H7N9 AIV A/Chicken/Guangdong/16876 (H7N9-16876) was generated using the baculovirus expression system (BVES). The results showed that the mutant (HAm) had significantly increased thermostability compared with the wild-type HA protein (HA-WT). Importantly, immunizing chickens with HAm combined with ISA 71VG elicited higher cross-reactive hemagglutination inhibition (HI) antibody responses and cytokine (IFN-γ and IL-4) secretion. After a lethal challenge with heterologous H7N9 AIV, the vaccine conferred chickens with 100% (10/10) clinical protection and effectively inhibited viral shedding, with 90% (9/10) of the chickens showing no virus shedding. The thermostability of HAm may represent an advantage in practical vaccine manufacture and application. In general, the HAm generated in this study represents a promising subunit vaccine candidate for the prevention and control of H7N9 avian influenza.
Francis Turbine Draft Tube Troubleshooting during Operational Conditions Using CFD Analysis
Authors: Mohammadi Moona , Hajidavalloo Ebrahim , Behbahani-Nejad Morteza , Mohammadi Mohammadreza , Alidadi Saber , Mohammadi Alireza
Published: August 2023

Hydropower plant vibrations due to pressure fluctuations and their troubleshooting methods are some of the most challenging issues in power plant operation and maintenance. This paper targets these fluctuations in a prototype turbine in two geometries: the initially approved design and the as-built design. Due to topographic conditions downstream, these geometries slightly differ in the draft tube height; the potential effect of such a slight geometrical change on the applicability of troubleshooting techniques is investigated. Therefore, the water flow was simulated using the CFD scheme at three operating points based on the SST k–ω turbulence model, while the injection of water/air was examined to decrease the pressure fluctuations in the draft tube, and the outputs were compared with no-injection simulations. The results show that a slight change in draft tube geometry causes the pressure fluctuations to increase 1.2 to 2.8 times after 4 s injecting at different operating points. The modification in the location of the air injection also could not reduce the increase in pressure fluctuations and caused a 3.6-fold increase in pressure fluctuations. Therefore, the results show that despite water/air injection being a common technique in the hydropower industry to reduce pressure fluctuations, it is effective only in the initially approved design geometry. At the same time, it has a reverse effect on the as-built geometry and increases the pressure fluctuations. This research highlights the importance of binding the construction phase with the design and troubleshooting stages and how slight changes in construction can affect operational issues.
Tomato Yield Responses to Deficit Irrigation and Partial Root Zone Drying Methods Using Biochar: A Greenhouse Experiment in a Loamy Sand Soil Using Fresh and Saline Irrigation Water
Authors: Alghamdi Abdulaziz G. , Aly Anwar A. , Al-Omran Abdulrasoul M. , Louki Ibrahim I. , Alkhasha Arafat
Published: August 2023

The impacts of regulated deficit irrigation (RDI) and partial root zone drying irrigation (PRD) on water productivity (WP), crop water response factor (Ky), and yield of tomato crop (Solanum lycopersicum) were explored in this study using fresh (0.9 dS m−1) and saline (3.6 dS m−1) water under greenhouse conditions. RDI had four ETc (crop evapotranspiration) levels, i.e., 40, 60, 80, and 100%. PRD adopted 100% ETc for all treatments with changes in its application time (first, second, third, and fourth growth stages). Biochar pyrolyzed at 450–500 °C and added at rate of 4%. The results revealed that the Ky ranged between 0.21 and 0.37, indicating that tomato can tolerate a shortage of irrigation water. The highest value of WP (191 kg m−3) was found in 40% ETc using fresh water with biochar. The highest yield (20.0 kg m−2) was obtained with the application of 100% ETc with fresh water and biochar. Biochar application did not result in favorable yields with saline water due to its high salinity (7.8 dS m−1). The use of PRD in the fourth stage with biochar and fresh water led to the highest yield (20.6 kg m−2). Finally, this study recommends the application of biochar only when fresh irrigation water is available in adequate amounts.
Effect of Sulfide on the Processes of Transformation of Nitrogen Compounds and the Microbial Community Composition in the Anammox Bioreactor
Authors: Pimenov Nikolai , Nikolaev Yuri , Grachev Vladimir , Kallistova Anna , Dorofeev Alexander , Litti Yuriy , Gruzdev Evgeny , Beletsky Alexey , Ravin Nikolai , Mardanov Andrey
Published: August 2023

Anammox is one of the most important processes in the global nitrogen cycle and the basis for an efficient technology of nitrogen removal from wastewater. The effect of the presence of sulfide in wastewater on the transformation of nitrogen compounds by the anammox community has been insufficiently studied. The present work dealt with the effect of sulfide on nitrogen removal efficiency and the dynamics of nitrogen species in a laboratory sequencing batch bioreactor modeling the functioning of the anammox community carrying out ammonium oxidation via nitritation and anammox and nitrite oxidation. The 16S rRNA gene profiling of the community of the anammox-activated sludge attached to the stationary carrier revealed members of the key physiological groups: ammonium oxidizers of the genus Nitrosomonas, nitrite oxidizers of the genus Nitrosospira, and anammox bacteria of the genera Candidatus Brocadia and Ca. Jettenia, as well as members of other bacterial genera. Nitrate removal was not sensitive to sulfide at concentrations up to 50 mg S/L and decreased by 17% at 100 mg/L. The threshold of sulfide sensitivity for group I nitrifiers was ~50 mg/L, while anammox bacteria were resistant to sulfide concentrations of up to 100 mg S/L in the incoming water. Group II nitrifiers were probably the most sulfide-sensitive components of the community. A drastic increase in the abundance of members of the family Hydrogenophilaceae at elevated sulfide concentrations, together with the precipitation of elemental sulfur, may indicate sulfide oxidation either by molecular oxygen or via nitrate reduction; this finding requires further investigation. This is the first report on the different effects of sulfide on the growth rate of members of the nitrifying genus Nitrosomonas, increasing/decreasing or not affecting it for different phylotypes at elevated sulfide concentrations.
Economically useful traits of cows received from different sires
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Ural State Agrarian University”, Russia, Yekaterinburg, Gorelik O. V. , Gorelik A. S. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Ural State Agrarian University”, Russia, Yekaterinburg, Safronov S. L. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “St. Petersburg State University of Veterinary Medicine”, Russia, St. Petersburg
Published: August 2023

When breeding Black-and-White holstinized cattle, the sperm of highly productive sires with high productivity potential of maternal ancestors, including Holstein breed, is used. Evaluation of sires by the quality of off spring is the most accurate method of determining the actual breeding value. The purpose of the work was to evaluate the economically useful traits of cows obtained from diff erent sires. The research was carried out in one of the breeding farms typical for the Sverdlovsk region for the breeding of Black-and-White cattle with a high proportion of blood in Holstein breed. The evaluation of three Holstein sires Zhadon 60044914, Onward 4512 and Plateau 62297905 on the quality of off spring was carried out by comparing the productivity of cows-daughters with their herdmates. It is established that when selecting sires for work in the herd, group selection of sires of the same type in terms of productive traits of maternal ancestors is used. This leads to almost equal milk yields for their daughters. There was also no signifi cant diff erence in milk quality indicators. When comparing the productivity of the cows-daughters of sires for the fi rst lactation with their herdmates, a certain diff erence was established, both in milk yield for 305 days of lactation, and in the mass fraction of fat and protein in milk. The cows-daughters of sire Onward 4512 turned out to be the best relative to herdmates in milk yield and mass fraction of fat in milk. The daughters of the sires Zhadon 60044914 and Plateau 62297905 had productivity lower than their herdmates by 315 and 127 kg, respectively. The daughters of the sire Plateau 62297905 surpassed their herdmates in terms of the mass fraction of fat and protein in milk. The level of profi tability of milk production for the highest lactation was 58,9–66,6 % and was higher in the group of cows–daughters of the sire Zhadon 60044914.
The fundamental factors of modern military conflicts in the context of the formation of a polycentric model of the world order
Authors:   Military Institute (National Defense Administration) of the Military Academy of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, Tolstykh V. V. , Tarasov S. A. ,   Military Institute (National Defense Administration) of the Military Academy of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, Kopylov I. A. ,   Military Institute (National Defense Administration) of the Military Academy of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation
Published: August 2023

The article considers the essence and content of modern interstate confrontation in the conditions of a dynamically developing global military-political situation, the formation of a new geopolitical structure of the world, steadily moving towards polycentricity, based on civilizational identity and internal economic integration of new world centers of economic and military power. It is noted that this process leads to signifi cant changes in the orientation and nature of modern military conflicts, which acquire the features of hybridity, based on the complex and simultaneous use of various means and methods of imposing their will on the opposing side. The classifi cation of modern forms of interstate confrontation is justifi ed, which made it possible to determine the fundamental factors that have a signifi cant impact on the content of modern military confl icts. It is concluded that it is necessary to develop a new scientific methodology for analyzing and assessing the military-political situation, developing military policy and the armed forces, and identifying the latest factors that contribute to the emergence and course of military conflicts.
Information confrontation between Russia and the USA: differences in the principles of public diplomacy, results of activities and prospects
Authors:   Diplomatic Academy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Moscow,, Mozgovaia L. M.
Published: August 2023

This article examines the complexity of forming an unbiased foreign policy image of Russia with the background of the information war with the United States, examines the specifics of US and Russian public diplomacy at the present stage, analyzes the prospects of overcoming the barrier of negative perception of Russia to strengthen bilateral and multilateral cooperation with other actors in the world arena, examines the success of Russia in public diplomacy on the example of a new round of development of bilateral relations with friendly countries. The study focuses particularly on the influence of digital services as the main technical mechanism for exerting political and psychological influence on the formation of the country's image.
Development of Iran’s agricultural sector in the context of economic sanctions
Authors:   All-Russian Research Institute of Agricultural Economics, Moscow, Cherkasova O. V.
Published: August 2023

The agricultural sector plays a fundamental role in the economy, providing food security, employment and income of the population, the exchange of the country’s currency through the import of agricultural and food products. In addition, this sector of the economy has flexibility and viability in relation to external shocks and threats, so it is important to analyze the impact of sanctions on it and assess its ability to adapt to them. The study showed that the multilateral economic sanctions against Iran had a significant negative impact on the economy in general and the agricultural sector in particular. The impact of sanctions is as follows: reduction of fi nancial revenues due to the oil embargo, falling GDP, investment in fi xed assets, rising prices and unemployment, disruption of supply chains on which imports and domestic food production depend, reduction of subsidies, high infl ation combined with population growth, urbanization and limited resources for agricultural production. This has led to a deterioration of the food security situation. In such conditions, representatives of the legislative power develop strategic planning directions to ensure sufficient agricultural production in the face of external threats, which have been called the "economy of resistance". The following measures to off set the negative impact of sanctions on Iranian households have shown their effectiveness: the creation of food aid programs, food banks with the assistance of charitable and non-governmental organizations; implementation of educational programs on nutrition, including trainings on food selection in accordance with the budget.
Some aspects of the formation of new competencies of managers and specialists in the context of digital transformation and ecologization of agro-industrial production
Authors:   Russian Academy of Personnel Support of the Agro-Industrial Complex, Moscow, Novikov V. G. ,   All-Russian Research Institute of Agricultural Economics, Moscow, Mozhaev E. E. ,   Russian Academy of Personnel Support of the Agro-Industrial Complex, Moscow, Uvarov A. V. ,   Russian Academy of Personnel Support of the Agro-Industrial Complex, Moscow, Logoza I. S. ,   Russian Academy of Personnel Support of the Agro-Industrial Complex, Moscow
Published: August 2023

Supplementary agricultural additional vocational education should become a driver of the development of the agroindustrial complex, which means reorienting from the role of a tool for resource staffi ng of the industry to the position of a generator of qualitative changes, technological renewal and expert support for the development of the agro-industrial complex and rural areas. Such changes will boost demand from end-users through the concept of lifelong learning. In this article, the authors stated a number of positions for the modernization of the system of supplementary agricultural additional vocational education aimed at forming new competencies related to the ecologization and digitalization of the agro-industrial complex and its central link — agriculture. What is meant here is the development and implementation of a system of specialized training of attendees (managers and specialists of the agro-industrial complex), focused on rapid adaptation to modern business activities in the agro-industrial complex; creating new content for continuous education, developing and using innovative forms of education, including distance learning; development and testing of methods for assessing the eff ectiveness of acquisition of knowledge by students; expertise on issues of continuous staff training; advanced training of teachers of educational institutions of FVE; joint educational activities of the institutions of FVE of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Russian Federation with scientific institutions and enterprises of the agro-industrial complex.
Familial hypercholesterolaemia in UK primary care: a Clinical Practice Research Datalink study of an under-recognised condition
Authors: Durand Adeline , Morgan Christopher Ll , Tinsley Steven , Hughes Elizabeth , McCormack Terry , Bitchell Charlotte L , Lahoz Raquel
Published: August 2023

Background

Studies utilising genotyping methods report the prevalence of familial hypercholesterolaemia to be as high as one in 137 of the adult population.

Aim

To estimate the prevalence of familial hypercholesterolaemia measured by clinically coded diagnosis, associated treatments, and lipid measurements observed in UK primary care.

Design and setting

This was a retrospective analysis using the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD) GOLD database.

Method

Patients aged ≥18 years and actively registered on the index date (30 June 2018) formed the study cohort. Point prevalence of familial hypercholesterolaemia for 2018 was estimated overall and for each nation of the UK. Patients with familial hypercholesterolaemia were stratified into primary and secondary prevention groups, defined as those with/without a prior diagnosis of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Prevalence estimates and extrapolations were replicated for these subgroups. Baseline demographic, lipid, and clinical characteristics for the prevalent cohort were presented.

Results

In total, 4048 patients with familial hypercholesterolaemia formed the study cohort. The estimated familial hypercholesterolaemia prevalence for the UK was 16.4 per 10 000 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 16.0 to 16.9). Of these, 2646 (65.4%) patients with familial hypercholesterolaemia had a recent prescription for lipid-lowering therapy. Mean lipid levels were lower for those treated with lipid-lowering therapy compared with those untreated: 5.34 mmol/L (SD 1.50) versus 6.25 mmol/L (SD 1.55) for total cholesterol and 3.15 mmol/L (SD 1.34) versus 3.96 mmol/L (SD 1.36) for low-level density lipoprotein cholesterol.

Conclusion

The estimated prevalence of familial hypercholesterolaemia was one in 608 of the population, less than expected from other studies, which may indicate that familial hypercholesterolaemia is under-recognised in UK primary care. Over one-third of diagnosed patients were undertreated and many did not achieve target goals, placing them at risk of cardiovascular events.
KAJIAN TENTANG INDEKS KECOCOKAN MODEL DALAM PEMODELAN PERSAMAAN STRUKTURAL BERBASIS KOVARIAN D ALAM LISREL DAN AMOS SERTA BERBASIS PARTIAL LEAST SQUARE DALAM PLS SEM
Authors: Narimawati Umi , Sarwono Jonathan , Sarwono Jonathan
Published: August 2023

The objective of this study is to review the goodness of fit (GOF) of Covariance and Partial Least Square Based Structural Equation Modeling using LSIREL, AMOS and Smart PLS. A method used is systematic secondary data search and meta - analysis. In this study, the present writer finds that there are some similarities and dissimilarities of the usage of each parameter used within the same parameter name; accordingly, users of those software must be able to distinguish each use of the parameter concerned in each software respectively in their researches

Key Words : goodness of fit, SEM, LISREL, AMOS, SmartPLS
Using Information Technology to Forge Connections in an Extension Service Project
Authors: Schneider Sandra , Brock Donna , Lane Crystal , Meszaros Peggy , Lockee Barbara
Published: August 2023

A hybrid Extension project is introduced that uses a traditional Extension delivery model without the complete infrastructure of Cooperative Extension Services. The absence of this local organizational support and infrastructure necessitates new thinking regarding how Information Technology (IT) can support this project and hybrid Extension projects in general. The reciprocal relationship between offline and online tasks and how an Internet portal can serve as a centralized location for project continuity is offered as one solution. How IT facilitates the implementation of hybrid Extension projects such as this one can further promote the interdisciplinary adoption of the Extension model.
Social Media Use of Cooperative Extension Family Economics Educators: Online Survey Results and Implications
Authors: O’Neill Barbara , Zumwalt Andrew , Bechman Janet
Published: August 2023

This article describes results of an online survey conducted by the eXtension Financial Security for All (FSA) Community of Practice (CoP) to determine the social media capacity and activity of its members. The survey was conducted to inform two subsequent FSA CoP programs: an archived webinar on social media programs and impact evaluation methods and a national grant-funded financial education social media outreach project. Survey topics include social media tools and access methods used by FSA CoP members, frequency of use, descriptions of content posted, number of fans/followers, institutional guidelines, and social media impact evaluation strategies.
An Examination of the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats Associated with the Adoption of Moodle™ by eXtension
Authors: Hightower Tayla , Murphrey Theresa , Coppernoll Susanna , Jahedkar Jennifer , Dooley Kim
Published: August 2023

The use of technology to deliver programming across Extension has been addressed widely; however, little research has been conducted concerning the use of Moodle™ as a course management system for Extension. The purpose of the study reported here was to identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats associated with the use of Moodle™ as an educational tool in eXtension from the perspective of those currently using the system. Findings reveal specific elements affecting the adoption of Moodle™ across eXtension that should be addressed in order to encourage further diffusion.
Insights from Spanish-Speaking Employees in the Iowa Horticultural Industry
Authors: Justen Emilie , Haynes Cynthia , VanDerZanden Ann , Schuck Nancy
Published: August 2023

Addressing the needs of Latino workers can help improve working conditions, job satisfaction, and productivity of both employees and the companies hiring Latino workers. The study reported here assessed educational needs, communication gaps, and technical skills of Latino workers working in the horticultural industry in Iowa—an ethnic group that is relatively new to Iowa. Focus groups were conducted with Latino workers and produced topics for educational programming and suggestions that could improve communications between predominantly English-speaking managers and Spanish-speaking Latino employees, and the horticultural knowledge of the Latino employees.
Development of a Bilingual Training Tool to Train Dairy Workers on the Prevention and Management of Non-Ambulatory Cows
Authors: Muniz Ivette , Metre David
Published: August 2023

Dairy cows at risk of becoming non-ambulatory or downers represent economic losses and animal well-being issues for the dairy industry. Colorado State University researchers and Extension faculty collaborated with Colorado's dairy industry to create a training tool for the early identification and management of cows at risk of becoming downers on dairy operations. The training tool is a DVD that contains a short movie, a Power Point presentation, a quiz, and links to additional Web resources. All materials are available in English and Spanish to accommodate the language differences of the predominant cultural groups employed in the dairy industry.
Strengthening 4-H Program Communication Through Technology
Authors: Robideau Karl , Santl Karyn
Published: August 2023

Advances in technology are transforming how youth and parents interact with programs. The Strengthening 4-H Communication through Technology project was implemented in eight county 4-H programs in Northwest Minnesota. This article outlines the intentional process used to effectively implement technology in program planning. The project includes: assessing current communication tools used; evaluating participants' preferences for receiving information; educating staff on current research trends; and training teams of youth and adults with the Forrester Research Model (2011) to implement social media as a program communication tool. The process helps staff identify audience and purpose of using technology for their specific needs.
Extension Master Gardener Intranet: Automating Administration, Motivating Volunteers, Increasing Efficiency, and Facilitating Impact Reporting
Authors: Bradley Lucy , Cook Jonneen , Cook Chris
Published: August 2023

North Carolina State University has incorporated many aspects of volunteer program administration and reporting into an on-line solution that integrates impact reporting into daily program management. The Extension Master Gardener Intranet automates many of the administrative tasks associated with volunteer management, increasing efficiency, and facilitating impact reporting while inherently motivating volunteers by meeting their needs for achievement, affiliation, and power.
Adapting Annie's Project in Maryland: Findings and Results
Authors: Dill Shannon , Rhodes Jennifer
Published: August 2023

Annie's project is a national program designed to empower farmwomen to manage information systems used in critical decision-making processes and to build local networks throughout the state. The target audience is farmwomen with a passion for business and involvement in the farm operation. Annie's Project is designed as eight, 3-hour sessions that focus around the five areas of farm risk management. It has engaged and educated an increasingly large part of the farm sector that does not regularly attend Extension and production meetings. The program has received an overwhelming response by participants and produced significant impacts.
Pest Scene Investigators: A Peer-Learning Effort to Improve Forest Health in Oregon
Authors: Strong Nicole , Oester Paul , Shaw Dave
Published: July 2023

Pest Scene Investigators is a new Oregon State University Extension education program designed to provide current Master Woodland Managers with specialized knowledge and skills in forest health assessment, diagnosis, and management. Seventy-nine volunteers participated in this pilot program from 2008-2010. The program effectively changed participant behavior on their own properties, with over 80% having thinned, planted alternative species, or assessed their land for forest pests and disease. However, participants showed little interest or confidence in helping other landowners or in doing forest health education. The program will re-tool to incorporate increased support and collaboration to increase confidence in providing volunteer service.
Experiential Cooking Programs for Low-Income Adults: Strategies for Success
Authors: Franck Karen , Vineyard Michelle , Olson Ann , Peterson Ashley
Published: July 2023

Experiential cooking classes for low-income adults can help improve healthy nutrition behaviors. However, nutrition educators and Extension professionals can face challenges in successful implementation of these programs such as difficulties recruiting and retaining participants. Drawing upon lessons learned from a cooking intervention with low-income adults, this article highlights three key strategies for educators to increase program success with low-income adults. These strategies focus on the need for adequate time and facilities as well as identifying GED programs as potential partners for recruiting and retaining adult participants.
Vitamin D: How to Translate the Science of the New Dietary Reference Intakes for This Complex Vitamin—More Is Not Always Better!
Authors: Morgan Kathleen
Published: July 2023

Vitamin D has long been known for its role in bone health. Before the recent Institute of Medicine (IOM) guidelines, there were conflicting messages about its other benefits. The IOM experts' exhaustive review of the evidence maintained the importance of calcium and vitamin D in promoting bone growth and maintenance. New Daily Reference Intakes were recommended. The report indicated that individuals seem to get meaningful amounts of vitamin D from sun exposure. Higher levels were not shown to provide a greater benefit. Extension professionals have the capacity to train professionals and consumers about the new vitamin D reference intakes.
Priority Drinking Water Issues in Hawaii
Authors: Brauer Drew , Mahler Roebrt , Castro Luisa , Evensen Carl
Published: July 2023

Information that can be used to develop relevant drinking water Extension programs for Hawaii residents was collected in a 2010 survey. The major findings were: (1) over 85% of survey respondents feel that their home drinking water is safe for consumption, (2) 84% obtain their drinking water from public water suppliers while 12.2% rely on bottled water, (3) 72% are satisfied with their drinking water, and (4) drinking water quality is not uniform across the state as significant numbers of Maui residents either use bottled water or are dissatisfied with one of more aspects of their potable water.
Reusable Learning Objects Enhanced Master Goat Producers' Learning
Authors: Strong Robert
Published: July 2023

Literature suggests Extension agents should be more proficient in delivering educational programs to enhance learning. This article reports on an innovative delivery method with a robust learning theory for constructing learning objectives. The reported here examined an approach used to improve learning in the Master Goat Producer program. The population (N = 96) was four Master Goat Producer classes from two states. Respondents demonstrated they learned and could practically apply the information. If agents attain different approaches to improve clientele learning, it may enhance Extension agents as educators and better assist Extension in accomplishing its organizational objectives.
THE TURKISH VERSION OF BODY UNDERSTANDING MEASURE FOR PREGNANCY SCALE: VALIDITY AND RELIABILITY STUDY
Authors: DUMAN Mesude , DOĞAN YÜKSEKOL Özlem , TİMUR Sermin
Published: August 2023

The objective of this study was to adapt the Body Understanding Measure for Pregnancy Scale into the Turkish language and to examine the psychometric properties in pregnancy. The methodological study was conducted with 508 healthy pregnant women. Language validation, content validation, and pilot scheme are the three phases of cultural adaptation of the scale. The construct validity of the scale was analyzed using both Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analyses. The reliability of the scale was tested using parallel-form reliability, test-retest reliability, Cronbach's α coefficient of internal consistency, and item-total correlation. The Confirmatory Factor Analysis conducted supports the three-factor structure of the scale that is constructed by Exploratory Factor Analysis. We determined Cronbach’s α coefficient of internal consistency to vary between 0.78 and 0.88 for the scale total and the subscales. Besides, there was a high correlation between the parallel-form reliability, test-retest reliability, and item-total correlation of the scale. The Turkish version of Body Understanding Measure for Pregnancy Scale is a validated and reliable tool designed to evaluate the body image concerns of Turkish pregnant women.
Polyimides and Their Diverse Applications in Multiple Optoelectronic Devices
Authors: Dong Yuan , Ma Jiaxin , Yang Shiyong , Yang Haixia
Published: August 2023

Solution-processable polyimide (PI) materials are attractive for applications in future flexible optoelectronics, owing to their excellent thermal and chemical resistance, inherent flexibility, and superior dielectric properties. They are widely integrated and investigated in various semiconductor devices. Here, the unique characteristics of PIs and their applications in optoelectronics are analyzed and summarized. A general introduction from the material aspect is given, followed by detailing the PI applications in multiple devices, including field-effect transistors, capacitors, photodetectors, and memory devices. In this review, the uniqueness and potential of PIs for next-generation optoelectronics are fully demonstrated, and the underlying challenges are proposed.
Conical Intersection versus Avoided Crossing: Geometric Phase Effect in Molecular High-Order Harmonics
Authors: Yuan Guanglu , Lu Ruifeng , Jiang Shicheng , Dorfman Konstantin
Published: August 2023

Nonadiabatic dynamics around an avoided crossing or a conical intersection play a crucial role in the photoinduced processes of most polyatomic molecules. The present work shows that the topological phase in conical intersection makes the behavior of pump-probe high-order harmonic signals different from the case of avoided crossing. The coherence built up when the system crosses the avoided crossing will lead to the oscillatory behavior of the spectrum, while the geometric phase erodes these oscillations in the case of conical intersection. Additionally, the dynamical blueshift and the splitting of the time-resolved spectrum allow capturing the snapshot dynamics with the sub-femtosecond resolution.
Desenho, implementação, simulação e avaliação do plano orçamentário e o impacto da Pandemia do Coronavírus nas concessionárias de automóveis: um estudo de caso
Authors: Pereira Francisco Isidro
Published: August 2023

As concessionárias de veículos na sua plenitude de formatação de modelo de negócio têm como gênese de receitas três áreas gerenciais que se alinham a uma interdependência estratégica, mas de políticas comerciais e financeiras fortemente impostas pela montadora. A questão levantada foi: como a lógica orçamentária se encaixa na estrutura do negócio de uma concessionária de veículos? Para empreender uma reflexão foi usufruído do próprio espaço laboral, delineando um estudo de caso do tipo único. No percurso de 23 meses (2018-2020), foi desenhado um plano orçamentário para fins reflexivos no segmento empresarial cerne do estudo empírico. A abordagem metodológica, apoiou-se numa pesquisa predominantemente qualitativa. Recorreu as técnicas da entrevista semiestruturada, a observação do tipo não participativa e a análise documental. O plano de registro dos dados contemplou os diários de campos, aplicativos de mensagens de textos, tablet e algumas vezes papéis avulsos. O tratamento analítico decorreu do confronto de material empírico com os elementos teóricos levantados e análise de conteúdo, com a devida identificação das categorias e subcategorias. O plano de validação foi calcado no retorno as fontes sempre quando surgia das dúvidas e as imprecisões de entendimento. O advento da crise sanitária serviu como prova promissora de quão robusta é a configuração orçamentária esboçada. Os dados inconsistentes e mal interpretados não se evidenciaram, persistindo, todavia, os dados de natureza dúbia.
Reflecting
on ITMA 2023
Authors: Savić Luka , Ludaš Anja
Published: August 2023

The International Textile Machinery Association (ITMA) 2023, held in Milan, Italy, was a pivotal event showcasing the latest innovations in the textile and garment industry, with a particular focus on electrospinning and extrusion machines. This review provides an in-depth analysis of the advancements presented at the fair, drawing on promotional materials, press releases, and firsthand accounts from exhibitors and attendees. The event underscored several industry trends, including a strong focus on sustainability, digitization, and automation. The review delves into these trends, discussing their implications for the textile industry and how they reflect the industry's broader goals and challenges. The advancements in extrusion and electrospinning technologies presented at the fair were particularly noteworthy, promising to revolutionize various aspects of textile production. The fair's success underscores the importance of such events in driving innovation and fostering dialogue within the industry.
Classification of Blighted Ovum Factors in Pregnant Women Using PSO-Based Naïve Bayes
Authors: Sulistyo Febryo Ponco , Palupi Endang Sri
Published: July 2023

Klasifikasi Faktor Blighted Ovum atau janin tidak berkembang dilakukan mengingat kasus Blighted Ovum banyak terjadi pada ibu hamil. Blighted Ovum merupakan 60% dari penyebab keguguran, di Indonesia ditemukan 37% dari setiap 100 kehamilan. Klasifikasi menggunakan Naïve Bayes berbasis Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) yang hanya membutuhkan data training yang kecil untuk menentukan estimasi parameter yang diperlukan dalam proses pengklasifikasian dan penggunaan Particle Swarm Optimization dapat meningkatkan nilai akurasi serta memecahkan masalah optimasi. Dengan proses pemilihan data variable dan data attribute untuk membuat kuisioner sebagai metode pengambilan data. Hasil klasifikasi blighted ovum pada wanita hamil menggunakan algoritma Naïve Bayes dengan framework Rapid Miner mendapatkan nilai akurasi sebesar 71,56% dengan Area Under Curve (AUC) 0,674 termasuk dalam kategori klasifikasi yang baik. Setelah menggunakan optimasi PSO nilai akurasi naik menjadi 79,82% dengan Area Under Curve 0,764 termasuk kategori klasifikasi yang baik. Naïve bayes merupakan metode yang cocok untuk klasifikasi, dan PSO bisa membuat nilai akurasi dan AUC lebih baik lagi.
Reactjs and Expressjs Implementation In PMK ITB STIKOM Bali Activity Management
Authors: Frensia Tanaga Anaclaudia  , Dian Pramana  , I Made Arya Budhi Saputra
Published: August 2023

In the Christian Student Brotherhood Student Activity Unit (PMK) ITB Stikom Bali the management of data, information and documentation is still done conventionally, namely hardcopy printing. These documents are vulnerable to being lost, damaged or difficult to find at a later date. Therefore we need a system to be able to manage data, documentation and other information regarding activities in PMK. In developing this activity management application using ReactJS and ExpressJS. This activity management application is expected to be a means of connecting information on activities carried out and making it easier for administrators to be able to store information from activities carried out. There are 5 stages in this research, namely data collection by direct observation of the object under study, literature study and stakeholder interviews. The second stage is an analysis from the user side, the data needed and the existing processes. The third stage is system design using conceptual database design, context diagrams and web architecture. The fourth stage is system implementation using the Javascript programming language with ReactJS on the frontend and ExpressJS on the backend and MongoDB as the database. The last stage is testing the system using the Blackbox testing method which focuses on testing the functionality of the system. The results of this study resulted in a website-based activity management system with predetermined user access as well as a liaison for activity information in the form of activity galleries and activity articles in UKM PMK using ReactJS and ExpressJS.