bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Z dziejów produkcji książki we Lwowie XVIII wieku. Drukarnia Bractwa Świętej Trójcy
Authors: Różycki Edward
Published: March 2024

Podstawy produkcji drukarskiej we Lwowie — dostępność papieru i jego rodzaje. Założenie typografii Bractwa Świętej Trójcy we Lwowie. Materialne podstawy funkcjonowania tłoczni. Zasługi kanoników kapituły w zakresie spraw wydawniczo-drukarskich. Repertuar wydawniczy. Druki i wydania nieznane bibliografiom znajdujące się w księgarni (magazynie drukarni). Biblioteka Bractwa.
The first annotated checklist of parasites infecting the one-humped camel, Camelus dromedarius (Artiodactyla: Camelidae), of Saudi Arabia between 1950-2021
Authors: Alnaqeb Haitham
Published: March 2024

Based on the published works of camels in Saudi Arabia, this study is the first checklist of parasites infecting the one-humped camel, Camelus dromedarius in Saudi Arabia between 1950-2021. The present checklist was organized taxonomically in which consist of 75 names representing 4 groups of parasites. The first group is Protozoa with 24 names. Secondly, 13 names of nematodes were reported while there were 12 names of Platyhelminthes. The last group belongs to the Arthropoda which consists of 26 reported species, most of which belong to Ixodida. Based on the resulting checklist, the geographical sampling of these records focuses mainly on the Central, Western, Eastern, and Southern regions, respectively. To date, a few studies have recorded parasites in the North region. The evidence reviewed in this list seems to suggest that further research should be undertaken to investigate the biodiversity of parasites infecting camels from the northern region of Saudi Arabia, which is connected to other continents of Asia, Africa, and Europe.
Identification of Digestive Tract Endoparasites of Laying Hens in Suruhwadang Village, Kademangan District, Blitar Regency
Authors: Mega Toafan Satrio , Susilowati Suherni , Hastutiek Poedji , Kusnoto Kusnoto , Sunarso Agus , Witaningrum Adiana Mutamsari
Published: March 2024

This study aims to determine the species, prevalence, and infection degree of endoparasite in the digestive tract of laying hens in Suruhwadang Village, Kademangan District, Blitar Regency. Ninety-six fecal samples were taken from four different farms. Twelve samples of chicken feces aged 20-50 weeks and twelve samples of chicken feces > 50 weeks were taken from each farm. The examinations taken in this study are fecal examinations using native, sediment, and floating methods. The results of identification of digestive tract endoparasites found consisting of Ascaridia galli (68.75%), Heterakis gallinarum (53.12%), Strongyloides avium (5.21%), Trichostrongylus tenuis (6.25%), Eimeria maxima (51,04%), and Eimeria acervulina (3,12%). The highest average degree of worm egg infection was found in layers >50 weeks of age of 373.96 ± 450.41 while the highest average degree of infection of protozoa was found in layers aged >50 weeks of 296,87 ± 600,92. The results of the Chi-Square test showed that there was no significant effect of the difference in the age of laying hens in the layer phase on the prevalence of digestive tract endoparasites, both worm egg and protozoan infections (P>0.05). The results of the Mann-Whitney test showed that there was a significant effect of the difference in the age of the laying hen in the layer phase on the degree of worm egg infection (P<0.05), but the difference in age of the laying hen in the layer phase did not significantly affect the degree of protozoa infection (P>0,05).
Oxyuris spp. Infection in Green Iguana (Iguana iguana) Under Different Cage Types
Authors: Kusumarini Shelly , Rafi Dzakir Ghalib  , Garvasilus Privantio Tegar Virgiawan Huler  , Reza Yesica  , Nanis Nurhidayah  , Haris Muhamad  , Nuha Fairusya
Published: March 2024

The caging system becomes one of the most crucial points in the green iguana (Iguana iguana) husbandry practice since some pathogens are transmitted through ingesting contaminated feed or water in the cage. One of the most common health problems in the green iguana is caused by infection of the gastrointestinal nematode (GIN), Oxyuris spp. Here, we conducted a study to identify Oxyuris spp. infection in the green iguana under different cage types in Malang Raya, East Java. A total of 40 fecal samples were collected and examined through flotation and modified McMaster techniques from three cage types, namely loose cage / extensive (n= 7), terrarium (n= 13), and iron-based cage (n= 20). The results showed that all green iguanas are infected with Oxyuris spp. (40/40 or 100 % prevalence). The highest mean egg per gram (EPG) was found in the green iguana which kept in a loose cage / extensive (mean EPG [CI 95 %] = 14 799.21 [14 442.05 – 15 156.37]), followed by terrarium (mean EPG [CI 95 %] = 8 763.80 [8 436.30 – 9 091.30]), and iron-based cage (mean EPG [CI 95 %] = 1 433.42 [1 303.79 – 1 563.05], respectively. At the same time, there is a significant relationship (P<0,05) between the type of cage and the infection rate of Oxyuris spp. According to this result, we recommend an iron-based cage with routine daily cleaning as prevention for Oxyuris spp. infection among the green iguana.
First report of Ophidascaris spp. (Class: Nematode) Infection in Wild-Caught Javanese Keelback Water Snake (Fowlea melanzostus) in Banyuwangi District
Authors: Yudhana Aditya , Salsabila Putri Elma , Angga Prastiya Ragil , Nurwartanti Yunita Maya , Agustono Bodhi , Ayu Wibawati Prima
Published: March 2024

The javanese keelback water snake (Fowlea melanzostus) is a semi-aquatic reptile that often found in Indonesia and endemic to Java island. Water tiger snakes are usually kept as exotic pets. Wild caught javanese keelback water snakes have risks of spreading several disease agents that can be zoonotic, which is nematodiasis caused by Ophidascaris spp. This study aims to determine the prevalence level of Ophidascaris spp. infections in javanese keelback water snakes from Banyuwangi district. This study used a descriptive method with accidental sampling. The total sample in this study was 33 wild-caught javanese keelback water snakes. The identification method used is snake samples that have been collected are then euthanized and necropsied to check for nematode infections in the subcutan, muscular, and visceral part. The result showed that 28 samples were positive for nematode infection and 5 samples were negative with a prevalence rate of 84.84%. The nematodes that have been identified come from the genus Ophidascaris spp. Therefore, further research is needed to determine the incidence of nematode transmission in other wild caught snakes in Indonesia.
BACTERIAL PROFILE AND ANTIBIOTIC SUSCEPTIBILITY TEST AMONG DIABETES MELLITUS PATIENTS WITH GANGRENE IN SURABAYA
Authors: Qona`ah Imro`atul , Sundari Aliyah Siti , Wahyuni Ratna , Indriati Dwi Wahyu
Published: March 2024

Background: Gangrene is a severe complication of damaged tissue that can occur in people with Diabetes Mellitus (DM), putting them at risk for bacterial infection. A pus culture can show diabetic gangrene patients' infecting bacteria. Purpose: Determine the prevalence of infection-causing bacteria and antibiotic sensitivity tests in diabetic gangrene patients at Haji Regional General Hospital, East Java Province, for January-December 2021. Method: The method used in this study is observational analytical cross-sectional, which is based on secondary data and is analyzed using the percentage formula and Chi-Square test. Result: The data obtained from 39 patients revealed 29 (74.4%) positive patients for bacterial infection. The Gram-negative bacteria was found to cause infection more frequently (72.41%) than the Gram-positive bacteria (27.59%). The prevalence of Gram-negative bacteria species most frequently from Escherichia coli (ESBL) 13.79% (4/29), Klebsiella pneumoniae 10.35% (3/29), Proteus mirabilis 10.35% (3/29). While the dominant Gram-positive bacteria a Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) 10.35% (3/29). The antibiotic sensitivity test showed that Gram-negative group were susceptible to ertapenem, meropenem, amikacin, gentamicin, and piperacillin tazobactam while resistant to ampicillin and cefazolin. The antibiotic sensitivity tests showed that the Gram-positive group was susceptible to linezolid, vancomycin, and tigecycline while resistant to tetracycline and ciprofloxacin. Conclusion: It is important to screen the bacterial profile causing gangrene and their antibiotic susceptibility pattern in DM patients in order to give proper treatment to DM patients.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN WORK DURATION, LENGTH OF WORK, AND SLEEP DURATION WITH WORK FATIGUE AMONG ONLINE TAXI BIKE DRIVERS IN GREATER JAKARTA
Authors: Surury Istianah , Aisya Alawiyah  , Fitri Anggraeni  , Vicky Abiansyah  , Nastiti Dyah Prastiwi
Published: March 2024

Background: Online taxi bike drivers were part of the road users vulnerable to accidents due to a demand that required online taxi bike drivers to work on the highway. Work duration, length of work, and sleep duration could cause the fatigue experienced by online taxi bike drivers. Purpose: See the strength of the relationship between work duration, length of work, sleep duration and work fatigue among online taxi bike drivers in Greater Jakarta. Method: This study was observational with a cross-sectional design involving as many as 52 online taxi bike drivers selected by non-probability sampling from online taxi bike drivers in Greater Jakarta from the end of November 2022 to early December 2022. Result: The majority of respondents (84.6%) were under 40 years old, male (92.3%), worked more than eight hours a day (55.8%), had experience as online taxi bike drivers for more than 3 years (73.1%), sleep duration less than 8 hours (78.8%), and there were 36 online taxi bike drivers (69.2%) reported experiencing high-very high levels of fatigue. The work duration is significantly related to work fatigue (p-value = 0.002). Also, there was no significant relationship between the length of work (p-value = 0.268) and sleep duration (p-value = 0.058) with work fatigue. Conclusion: There was a significant relationship between work duration and work fatigue, and there was no significant relationship between the length of work and sleep duration with work fatigue. The taxi drivers with work duration >8 hours, length of work >3 years, and sleep duration <8 hours had higher risk factors for work fatigue. If a taxi bike driver works more than 8 hours daily, it is advisable to compensate with adequate rest.
THE PREVALENCE, ISOLATION, AND ANTIMICROBIAL SUSCEPTIBILITY TESTING OF ENTEROCOCCUS SPECIES FROM VARIOUS CLINICAL SAMPLES IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL
Authors: Afroz Turin
Published: March 2024

Background: Enterococcus is routinely considered a low-grade pathogen. The synergistic action of Enterococci with other bacteria increases the risk of infection. Enterococci are currently the next most common cause of healthcare-associated infections after E. coli. Greater understanding is needed regarding Enterococcus stress survival, virulence, and resistance patterns to assess the complexity of disease-causing Enterococcus. Purpose: Analyze the prevalence of Enterococcus and assess the antibiotic sensitivity pattern of Enterococcus. Method: A descriptive cross-sectional study was designed and carried out in the Department of Microbiology at Bangladesh University of Health Sciences, Dhaka, over a period of 3 months. Bacterial culture and sensitivity were the methods employed for microbiological examination. Result: A total of 558 bacterial strains were isolated, among which the growth of Enterococcus spp. was 27 (4.83%). The prevalence of Enterococcus spp. among different samples was 4.83%. The number of highly sensitive strains ranged from 66.66% to 77.77% for antibiotics, namely gentamycin, ampicillin, amoxicillin, and meropenem. Moderately high sensitivity to levofloxacin (29.62%) and low sensitivity to doxycycline (14.81%) were also analyzed. Conclusion: The study recommends that antibiotics should be used after proper laboratory procedures are undertake, and it should be selected based on antimicrobial susceptibility tests.
Egg production and egg quality characteristics of Yoruba, Sussex, and Goliath chickens and their crossbred progenies under humid tropical climate
Authors: Ademola Abimbola Alice , Fayeye Timothy Rotimi , Akintunde Adeyinka Oye , Chimezie Victoria O.
Published: March 2024

Yoruba Ecotype Chicken (YEC) is characterized by hardiness, and better adaptation to prevailing tropical environment. However, its poor egg production has hindered its utilization for commercial production. Crossbreeding is a major tool used in improving desired traits in animals. The objective of the study was to evaluate egg production and quality characteristics in YEC and its crosses with Goliath (GG) and Sussex (SS). The study investigated egg production and egg quality characteristics using 120 sixteen-week-old YEC and its crosses. The findings of the study showed that egg parameters were significantly higher (p<0.05) and maturity occurred earlier (154 days) in YECxSS than in YECxYEC (146 days) and other YEC crosses. The study concluded that cross breeding improved egg production of YEC. Crossbred YEC x SS is therefore recommended for egg production in Nigeria.
The effect of addition of melon (Cucumis melo L.) flesh juice into Lactated Ringer’s-egg yolk extender on spermatozoa plasma membrane integrity and spermatozoa morphological abnormalities of semen of native rooster
Authors: Pitaloka Dinda Galuh , Mas’ud Hariadi  , Suherni Susilowati  , Budi Utomo  , Tatik Hernawati  , Eka Pramyrtha Hestianah  , Samuel Inioluwa Akeju
Published: March 2024

This study aims to determine the effect of adding melon (Cucumis melo L.) juice to Lactated Ringer’s-egg yolk extender on the intact plasma membrane (IPM) and morphological abnormalities of native rooster spermatozoa. Five ejaculate each from two native roosters (Gallus gallus domesticus) were divided into four equal volumes. Ejaculate was extended 1:10 (v/v) in Lactated Ringer's-egg yolk without or with the addition of of 2, 4, and 8% (v/v) melon flesh juice, respectively for groups T0, T1, T2, and T3. Extended semen was stored in a refrigerator (5°C) and evaluated every two hours. The results showed that IPM of all groups decreased (p <0.05) consistently, lasting more than 40% for six hours in the T0 and T1 groups and four hours in the T2 and T3 groups. The percentage of spermatozoa morphological abnormalities in all groups stored for six hours was higher (p <0.05) than before storage. However, it was not significantly different (p >0.05) from that which had been stored for two and four hours. It was concluded that native rooster semen extended in Lactated Ringer's-egg yolk without (group T0) or with 2% melon flesh juice (group T1) and stored at 5°C retained spermatozoa plasma membrane integrity of more than 40% and morphological abnormalities of less than 20% for six hours. While the addition of 4 % (T2) and 8% (T3) melon flesh juice maintained the percentage of IPM and spermatozoa morphological abnormalities for only four hours.
Spermiogramic parameters of Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) to aqueous administration of egg lime molasses mixture
Authors: Akintunde Adeyinka Oye , Ndubuisi-Ogbonna Lois Chidinma , Ladele Mofiyinfoluwa M. , Olorunfemi Oladapo Ayodeji , Ojo Olayinka Abosede , Oyewumi Samson O. , Bolatito Adenike Shobo  , Olufunso Emmanuel Akinboye
Published: March 2024

As demand for animal protein rises, raising Japanese quail holds much potentials in bridging the gap. Phytogenics has been reported to have effect on spermiogramic parameters of animals. This research was done to ascertain the spermiogramic parameters of Japanese quails to administration of aqueous solution of egg lime molasses mixture (ELM). Fresh eggs were placed in a dish, followed by 500g of molasses and 1 liter of lime juice. It was then covered for 10 days and the entire mixture was blended. Two hundred day old Japanese quails were assigned to five treatments in a Completely Randomized Design and were subdivided into 4 replicates of 10 birds each. The control (T1) having no administration of ELM, T2 had an inclusion level of 10 mL, T3: 20 mL, T4: 30 mL and T5: 40 mL, all in 500 mL of water.  Feed and water were provided ad libitum. The study was carried out for 49 days. Data were collected on genitalia morphometry and fertilizing potentials. The birds administered 20 mL of ELM had significantly (p <0.05) higher left epididymis weight (0.36 ± 0.05g) compared to the other groups. The inclusion of ELM in the water significantly influenced (p <0.05) left epididymis volume, paired epididymis volume, left epididymis density, paired epididymis density and spermatozoa reserves in the right epididymis. Testosterone values significantly increased (p <0.05) with increased ELM inclusion. It can be concluded that the administration of ELM did not alter growth parameters however birds that received 20 mL per 500 mL of water had the best reproductive parameters.
Retained placenta in dairy cows living in an all-day cowshed rearing system
Authors: Sayi Datur Rohmah  , Hermin Ratnani  , Sunaryo Hadi Warsito  , Rimayanti Rimayanti  , Sri Pantja Madyawati  , Sri Mulyati  , Abdullah Hasib
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors that influence the incidence of retained placenta in dairy cows reared under an all-day cowshed housing system at KUD Tani Wilis, Sendang District, Tulungagung. This study used 216 dairy cows, that had already calved, that had been identified to have medical and reproductive records for data exploration. Data collected included the sex and weight of calf, single or twin calves, age of the dam, cowshed structure (floor, puddles on the floor, gutter, distance of cowshed to waste disposal, type of floor and roof, and sunlight exposure), feed of the dam (forage, concentrate, mineral supplements), frequency of retained placenta cases on calving intervals and days open of the dams. The prevalence of retained placenta was presented descriptively. Factors related to the retained placenta and its effect on calving interval and days open were analyzed by Chi-square test using Statistical Product and Service Solution (SPSS) software version 20 for Windows. The result showed that the prevalence rate of retained placenta was 19.91% of all dairy cow populations in the district. Furthermore, the sex of the calf, age of the dam, sunlight exposure, and the quantity of feed (forage and concentrate) were related to the retained placenta (p  <0.05). In addition, retained placenta increased along with extending of days open and calving interval. It could be concluded that the factors that influenced the prevalence of retained placenta were the sex of the calf, the age of the cow, the feed and concentrate, and the cowshed that is not facing the sun.
The addition of egg yolk to the physiological saline extender improved the motility and viability of kampung rooster spermatozoa at cool temperatures
Authors: Diba Lucky , Suzanita Utama  , Tjuk Imam Restiadi  , Suherni Susilowati  , Nusdianto Triakoso  , Dwi Wijayanti
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this study was to determine the motility and viability of kampung rooster (Gallus gallus domesticus) spermatozoa in 0.9% Sodium chloride (NaCl) solution as an extender with the addition of egg yolk at different concentrations at cool temperature (5°C). This study was performed using two 1.5 years old healthy local roosters. Semen was collected through massage in the morning. The pooled semen sample was divided into four treatment groups. In the T0 group the semen was diluted in 0.9% NaCl, while in the T1, T2 and T3 groups the semen was diluted in 0.9% NaCl added with 5, 10 and 15% egg yolk. The results showed that the motility and viability of spermatozoa decreased when stored at cool temperatures for ten hours (p <0.05). Semen of roosters stored at 5°C in saline solution without the addition of egg yolks showed the lowest motility and viability of spermatozoa (p <0.05). The addition of egg yolk into the saline extender increased the motility and viability of spermatozoa. Concentration of 15% egg yolk in saline solution resulted in the highest spermatozoa motility and viability when stored for up to 8 hours (p <0.05). However, motility and viability of spermatozoa at 10 hours of storage were not significantly different (p >0.05) with the addition of 10% and 15% egg yolks. Therefore, it could be concluded that the addition of 15% egg yolk into a saline solution as an extender could maintain the motility and viability of kampung rooster spermatozoa when stored at 5°C for 10 hours.
Effect of ethanolic extract of Moringa oleifera leaves on the number of spermatogenic cells and Leydig cells of gentamicin-induced rats
Authors: Ngizzah Nailul , Wurlina Wurlina  , Poedji Hastutiek  , Iwan Sahrial Hamid  , Eka Pramyrtha Hestianah  , Lita Rakhma Yustinasari
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to determine the effect of the administration of ethanolic extract of Moringa oleifera leaves on the number of spermatogenic and Leydig cells of gentamicin-induced rats (Rattus norvegicus). This study used 25 white male rats divided randomly into five groups. The rats were injected with Gentamicin 5 mg/kg bw/day subcutaneously for 14 days, except for the negative control group (NCG). During the next 14 days, the rats were given oral moringa leaf extract of 200, 316, and 500 mg/kg bw/day respectively for E200, E316, and E500 groups. The data were analyzed with one-way ANOVA followed by Duncan's test. The results showed that the number of spermatogonia, spermatocytes, and spermatids in NCG was higher (p <0.05) than in the other groups. The number of spermatogonia, spermatocytes, and spermatids in the E316 group was higher (p <0.05) than in PCG. The number of spermatogonia in the E500 group was higher (p <0.05) than in the E316 group, but the number of spermatocytes and spermatids in the E316 group was similar (p >0.05) to the E500 group. The number of PCG Leydig cells was the smallest (p <0.05) compared to the other groups. The administration of Moringa leaves extract in the E200 and E316 groups increased (p <0.05) the number of Leydig cells compared to PCG. The number of Leydig PCG cells in the E500 group was not significantly different (p >0.05) from that of the NCG. It could be concluded that administration of Moringa oleifera leaves extract restored the number of spermatogenic and Leydig cells of gentamicin-induced rats.
Effect of Peganum harmala seeds extract on the hepatic tissue structure and fetus of mice
Authors: Samira Musa Sasi  , Al ghoul Nagia , Awayn Nuri , El ghoul Ahmed , Prastiya Ragil
Published: March 2024

Peganum harmala is one of the most used plants for the treatment of many diseases. Its effective compounds have pharmaceutical and medicinal properties. This study aims to determine the effect of aqueous extract of harmala plant seeds on body and liver weight, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), and the histological structure of liver of mice, as well as the size of the fetuses sired by treated mice. Sixteen adult male mice were divided into two groups of eight. The first group (control) was given distilled water orally, while the second group received the aqueous extract of harmala seeds at a dose of 300 mg/kg bw for three weeks. three untreated females were housed with one treated male for mating. At the end of the treatment, six male mice of each group were weighed and killed. Liver was extracted, weighed and its enzymes were measured. Also, sections of the liver were prepared for histological examination. The results showed a decrease in the body weight of the treated mice and a significant increase in the average weight of the fetuses compared with the control group, as well as marked changes in the hepatic tissue structure. There was no impact of the extract on fetal body length, liver weight and hepatic enzymes (AST and ALT) of treated mice.  Further studies should be conducted to determine a safe dose that does not affect any organ in the body, so that it can be used for the treatment of many diseases.
Use of vitamin E and selenium injections as supportive treatment of retained placenta in dairy cattle
Authors: Rahim Nurul Insyirah , Hendrawan Viski Fitri , Tuska Habib Syaiful Arif , Agustina Galuh Chandra
Published: March 2024

The placenta is considered retained when it cannot separate from the uterus beyond the normal time limit. Physiologically, a cow's placenta comes out 3-8 hours postpartum. This study aims to determine the diagnosis and treatment of retained placenta in dairy cows using vitamin E and selenium as supportive treatment. On physical examination the patient had a body temperature of 39.9°C, was weak, unable to stand, and had decreased appetite. General examination in this case showed the following clinical symptoms: the placenta was still hanging from the vulva and there was an unpleasant odor from the vulva area. The retained placenta was removed manually, followed by flushing the uterus with 0.2% povidone iodine (in water). Antibiotic (Colibact bolus) were introduced into the uterus and penicillin-streptomycin was injected intramuscularly along with vitamin E and selenium as supportive treatment. The results showed that the cow recovered and returned to estrus 14 days after therapy. It could be concluded that injections of vitamin E and selenium helped restore the estrous cycle in cows with retained placenta.
Will you purchase what I recommend? The role of interaction orientation, parasocial relation, and product involvement
Authors: Febrianti Adjeng Mariana , Hermina Nurul , Suratman Maman
Published: March 2024

In recent years, sales in online platforms have received huge attention from generation Z in Indonesia, along with live streaming business model which has undergone rapid development in recent years. Although the way live streaming with consumers has been known as the key to influence consumer behavior, only a few research has studied the style of streaming communication in affecting purchase intentions. Based on the social influence theory, this study attempts to examine the influence of interaction orientation, parasocial relation, and digital influencer credibility on purchase intention. In addition, the present study also investigates the role of product involvement advertised by streamers as moderator. The quantitative approach with the survey is used through samples of 200 respondents selected by purposive sampling. The data is collected online through disseminating questionnaires using Google Form, which is then analyzed using SEM-PLS technique. The findings indicate that interaction orientation positively influences purchase intention and parasocial relation, while parasocial relation positively influences digital influencer credibility, and digital influencer credibility positively influences purchase intention. In addition, product involvement has a moderating role that can strengthen the influence of interaction orientation and purchase intention. This study provides implications for how an interaction can be delivered online and how the involvement of a credible influencer can affect purchase intention.
Interactions Between Machiavellianism and Verbal Reasoning in “Bullshit” Production
Authors: Blötner Christian
Published: March 2024

Persons high in the manipulative, misanthropic trait Machiavellianism make use of various forms of deception to attain their goals. A recent study demonstrated that different facets of Machiavellianism account for different kinds of deception (Blötner & Bergold, 2023; https://doi.org/10.1111/bjso.12559). Intelligence could be another predictor of deception production. This research examined the interactions between different facets of Machiavellianism and verbal reasoning to predict the production of empty, vague pseudo-information that is supposed to help achieve desired states or prevent undesired ones (co-called “bullshit”). In a sample of 525 participants, and consistent with the hypotheses, individuals with high scores in the goal-oriented facet of Machiavellianism produced “bullshit” more frequently to achieve certain goals if they also scored high in verbal reasoning. Thus, and opposing common assumptions, Machiavellianism is not sufficient to explain engagement in deceptive behavior as it only reflects the motivation to do so. Especially in the case of verbally expressed deception, verbal skills are also required to be successful.
The Driving Effect of Marine Industry on Marine Pollution: An Empirical Study from China
Authors: Yu Cong , Dou Shuguang , Chen Xu , Zhang Linhao , Kong Xianghui
Published: March 2024

Marine industries are dependent on the ocean and often have a direct impact on the marine environment. Although previous studies have talked about pollution from marine industries, it is not known to what extent and to what extent these behaviors affect the ocean. Therefore, this study examines the impacts of major marine industries on the marine environment, using China as an example. The Ministry of Ecology and Environment of the People's Republic of China categorizes the quality of seawater into Class I, Class II, Class III, Class IV, and Inferior Class IV in descending order according to the quality from good to poor. In this study, water quality of Class I and Class II are defined as good quality seawater, Class III as average quality, Class IV and Class IV as poor quality, and the proportion of the area of seawater with different water quality to the total area of the sea area symbolizes the overall quality of the marine environment. We use panel data from 11 provinces and cities along the coast of mainland China from 2006 to 2020, estimated by the full feasible generalized least squares (FGLS) method, to study the impacts of the development of coastal tourism, marine transportation, marine shipbuilding, marine salt, mariculture, and marine fishing on the marine environment. The empirical results show that, in descending order of the degree of influence, the marine industries that cause a decrease in the area of good quality seawater are coastal tourism, mariculture and shipbuilding, and the marine industries that cause an increase in the area of poor quality seawater are marine transportation and shipbuilding, while the marine salt industry has no obvious influence on the marine environment, and the development of the marine fishing industry indirectly contributes to the improvement of the marine environment.
Tourism and Urban Development: The Case of a Coastal Village in a Small Island State
Authors: Agius Karl , Briguglio Michael
Published: March 2024

This paper discusses how Marsascala, a coastal town in Malta, has been urbanized over the years, with particular attention to the development of the tourist industry. In this regard, Bruce Young’s (1983) “general model of the process of ‘touristization’ and landscape change” is engaged with in conjunction with other conceptualisations of tourism and urban development. This paper contributes to the following sustainable development goals respectively, 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing); 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth); 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities); 14 (Life Below Water); and 15 (Life on Land), in particular with respect to quality of life, urbanization and respective social, environmental, and economic impacts, and through respective recommendations for a sustainable tourism in Marsascala and similar localities.
Development and Optimization of PIR and QIR Maintenance Strategies Using Monte Carlo Method
Authors: Cheikh Khamiss , Boudi EL Mostapha , Rabi Rabi , Mokhliss Hamza
Published: March 2024

Every firm is devoted to polishing and fine-tuning its maintenance strategy. More exactly, when we develop robust and efficient preventive and conditional maintenance approaches, our objective is to combine performance and robustness to increase maintenance decision-making. This, in turn, leads to a reduction in system failures and a subsequent drop in related expenses. This impulse drives the origin of this essay: to provide fresh criteria that allow us to improve and optimize maintenance techniques. Furthermore, our study has been realistically utilized via the deployment of condition-based maintenance (CBM) techniques, which are commonly regarded as a critical lever that allows firms to gain a competitive advantage in the context of the fourth industrial revolution.
Combining both perfect and imperfect maintenance actions into CBM strategies appears to be an effective technique to obtain high economic performance and robustness in the maintenance strategies of the companies. Following this idea, we propose and optimize in this paper a set of criteria enabling the combined assessment of the mean economic performance and the resilience of various kinds of maintenance techniques. The advantage of the proposed criterion is that it adapts to different types of maintenance strategies and provides access to a simple and relevant evaluation model. Thanks to this new criterion, we will be able to choose the better maintenance strategies that have more performance and robustness between these strategies for a system with more or less stable behavior. The Monte Carlo Method is incorporated into the comparative assessment of maintenance methods, adding a layer to the evaluation of the performance and robustness of each adaptation in decision-making.
Artificial Neuron Based on the Bloch-Point Domain Wall in Ferromagnetic Nanowires
Authors: Cruz Carlos Sanchez , Caso Diego , Aliev Farkhad G.
Published: March 2024

Nanomagnetism and spintronics are currently active areas of research, with one of the main goals being the creation of low-energy-consuming magnetic memories based on nanomagnet switching. These types of devices could also be implemented in neuromorphic computing by crafting artificial neurons (ANs) that emulate the characteristics of biological neurons, through the implementation of neuron models such as the widely used leaky integrate-and-fire (LIF) with a refractory period. In this study, we have carried out numerical simulations of a 120 nm diameter, 250 nm length ferromagnetic nanowire (NW) with the aim of exploring the design of an artificial neuron based on the creation and destruction of a Bloch-point domain wall. To replicate signal integration, we applied pulsed trains of spin-currents to the opposite faces of the ferromagnetic NW. These pulsed currents (previously studied only in the continuous form) are responsible for inducing transitions between the stable single vortex (SV) state to the metastable Bloch point domain wall (BP-DW) state. To ensure the system exhibits the leak and refractory properties, the NW was placed in an homogeneous magnetic field of the order of mT in the axial direction. The suggested configuration fulfills the requirements and characteristics of a biological neuron, potentially leading to the future creation of Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) based on reversible changes in the topology of magnetic NWs.
Instantaneous Material Classification Using a Polarization-Diverse RMCW LIDAR
Authors: Pulikkaseril Cibby , Ross Duncan , Tofini Alexander , Lize Yannick K. , Collarte Federico
Published: March 2024

Light detection and ranging (LIDAR) sensors using a polarization-diverse receiver are able to capture polarimetric information about the target under measurement. This information can be used in a classifier to make an instantaneous assessment of the type of material present, enabling a shot-by-shot prediction of the material type and distance to the target.
Intentional and Undesirable Effects Related to the Interaction of Electromagnetic Fields with Major Living Tissues
Authors: Razek Adel
Published: March 2024

The well-being and sociability of individuals have always been part of modernity. The development of new technologies that meet these aspirations is receiving increasing attention. Thus, strengthening the desired objectives of these tools and minimizing their undesirable side effects is the subject of a growing commitment. The present contribution aims, in this context, to evaluate and analyze the desired and undesirable effects of the interaction of electromagnetic fields with living tissues in general. This involves routines reinforcing expected functions as well as those controlling and protecting against undesirable effects. First, the interactions of electromagnetic fields with tissues are analyzed, involving their thermal biological effects of desired and undesired exposures. The roles of blood and sap fluids in bio-affected tissues are then analyzed. Secondly, the governing electromagnetic, bio-heat equations, and their coupled solution are studied. Third, the thermal behavior of tissues and the exposure adverse effects are examined. Next, monitoring and defending of the effects of exposures are discussed. This contribution illustrates and discusses mathematical modeling routines based on a generalized interaction of electromagnetic fields with living tissues.
State-of-the-art on Fe Precipitation in Porous Media: Hydrogeochemical Processes and Evolving Parameters
Authors: Cao Wenran , Yan Guanxi , Hofmann Harald , Scheuermann Alexander
Published: March 2024

The mixing of terrestrial groundwater and seawater creates dynamic reaction zones in intertidal areas, where land-derived Fe(II) is oxidized to Fe(III) and then precipitates as Fe hydroxides at groundwater-seawater interface. These hydrogeochemical processes contribute to the formation of iron curtains beneath soil surface, which in turn influences the evolution of coastal aquifers. This paper provides a comprehensive review of physical and geochemical processes at field scale in coastal areas, explores the impact of mineral precipitation on pore structure at pore scale, and synthesizes reactive transport modeling (RTM) approaches for illustrating continuum-scale soil physio-chemical parameters during the evolution of porous media. Upon this review, knowledge gaps and research needs are identified. Additionally, challenges and opportunities are presented. Therefore, the incorporation of observational data into a comprehensive physico-mathematical model becomes imperative for capturing the pore-scale processes in porous media and their influence on groundwater flow and solute transport at large scales. Furthermore, a synergistic approach integrating pore-scale modeling and non-invasive imaging can provide detailed insights into intricate fluid-pore-solid interactions for future studies, as well as facilitate the development of regional engineering-scale models and physio-chemical coupled models with diverse applications in submarine science and engineering.
The Impact of ESG Responsibility Fulfillment on Enterprise Value in China: A Regulated Intermediary Model Approach
Authors: Shangguan Xuming , Shi Gengyan , Yu Zhou
Published: March 2024

ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) responsibility fulfillment increasingly affects enterprise valuation. Although researchers debate about the precise effects, the prevailing view suggests a linear relationship between ESG performance and enterprise value. This study introduces a novel ESG responsibility performance metric through the Regulated Intermediary Model to delve into this relationship within the Chinese context. Our findings reveal an inverted U-shaped relationship between ESG performance and enterprise value, with financing constraints having a significant moderating effect. These findings remain robust after employing instrumental variables to mitigate potential endogeneity. Heterogeneity analysis demonstrates that this inverted U-shaped relationship is particularly pronounced in non-polluting and non-state-owned enterprises. Moreover, a comparison between equity and debt financing mechanisms underscores that improved ESG performance is associated with lower cost of equity financing, thereby enhancing enterprise value. Financial institutions are encouraged to leverage innovative financial instruments to diversify enterprise financing channels and alleviate financing constraints of enterprises that fulfill their ESG responsibilities.
How Can Religious Fractionalization and Polarization Inform Us at the County Level in Post-Communist Romania?
Authors: Rotaru Marina-Alexandra , Cretan Remus , Jucu Ioan Sebastian , Ianas Ana-Neli , Torok-Oance Marcel
Published: March 2024

This study explores religious diversity in Romania and how the trends of indices of religious fractionalization and polarization manifest at the county level in the post-communist period. The county is selected as the relevant level for analysis due to its spatial confessional dynamics being more clearly visible. Recent studies have revealed that erosion of diversity represents an important aspect for any country and needs to be considered as an important aspect of democracy. This paper highlights that religious polarization and fractionalization in Romania has been generally maintained, although the regions of Transylvania, Banat, Dobrogea and Western Moldova remain areas where there are different confessions. Besides the general aspect of religion diversity depending the ethnic trends, there is a rise of Pentecostals and Baptists at the county level. This aspect can inform policymakers to create new institutions for dialogue between majority Orthodox communities and Protestants so that potential conflicts do not appear between the Orthodox and emerging religious communities, but also to ensure objective, cultural, religious coherence.
Sequential Monte Carlo Optimization for Index Tracking with Transaction Costs
Authors: Hamilton-Russell Leila , O’Callaghan Thomas Malan , Savin Dmitrii , Schlögl Erik
Published: March 2024

Managing a portfolio whose value closely tracks an index by trading only in a subset of the index constituents involves an NP-hard optimisation problem. In the prior literature, it has been suggested to solve this problem using sequential Monte Carlo (SMC, a.k.a. particle filter) methods. However, this literature does not take transaction costs into account, although transaction costs are the primary motivation for attempting to replicate the index by trading in a subset, rather than the full set of index constituents. This paper extends the SMC approach to index tracking to allow for proportional transaction costs and implements this extended method on empirical data for a variety stock indices. In addition to providing a more practically useful tracking strategy by allowing for transaction costs, we find that including a penalty for transaction costs in the optimisation objective can actually lead to better tracking performance.
Development of Worth Estimation and Key Target Selection Methods for Effective VE
Authors: Jeong Yeon-Goo , Jeong Hye-Min , Kim Byung-Soo
Published: March 2024

VE is a powerful technique for analyzing a design with a focus on functionality, reducing costs, and increasing value. However, in order to proceed with the design of VE, the theoretical basis for the VE target selection process, which must be preceded in the preparation stage, is lacking, and as a result, it is difficult to verify the most effective target selection. Thus, a theoretical basis is needed. In this study, we intend to quantify the WORTH value of the COST TO WORTH technique and present an objective model of the target selection method using the derived Value Index (VI). For this purpose, cost worth (WORTHC) was calculated based on the performance data of 1,008 cases of 15 building types provided by the Domestic Public Procurement Service and the share of 83 detailed processes in 7 fields. Then, a survey was conducted targeting the ordering companies, and the final worth (WORTHF) was calculated by multiplying the derived customer value (WORTHV ) weight for each detailed work type. We calculated the Value Index (VI) by comparing COST and WORTHF for each detailed construction type of the VE project and developed a model to select construction types that exceed the VI standard value derived using the standard error of the population. Both cost experts and non-cost experts can use the developed model to specify the VE target selection criteria in order to easily select the key target, objectively sort the values that serve as the basis for calculating the value index and make it possible to more easily select the VE target selection criteria based on theoretical evidence. Also, the model can be used to obtain effective detailed design VE results.
Tuning of PID Controllers using Reinforcement Learning for Nonlinear Systems Control
Authors: Bujgoi Gheorghe , Sendrescu Dorin
Published: March 2024

The numerical implementation of the controllers allows the use of very complex algorithms with ease. However, in practice, due to its proven advantages, the PID controller (and its variants) is widely used in industrial control systems as well as in many other applications that require continuous control. Most of the methods for tuning the parameters of PID controllers are based on time-invariant linear models of the processes, which in practice can lead to poor performance of the control system. The paper presents an application of reinforcement learning algorithms in tuning of PID controllers for the control of some classes of continuous nonlinear systems. Tuning the parameters of PID controllers is done with the help of Twin Delayed Deep Deterministic Policy Gradients (TD3) algorithm which presents a series of advantages compared to other similar methods from Machine Learning dedicated to continuous state and action spaces. TD3 algorithm is an off-policy Actor-Critic based method and was used as it does not require a system model. The presented technique is applied for control of a biotechnological system which has a strongly nonlinear dynamic. The proposed tuning method is compared to the classical tuning methods of PID controllers. The performance of the tuning method based on the TD3 algorithm is demonstrated through simulation illustrating the effectiveness of the proposed methodology.
Design and Verification of Self-Propelled Electric Tea Seed Planter Based on Orthogonal Test
Authors: Wu Luofa , Chen Daogen , Wu Yanqi
Published: March 2024

A self-propelled electric tea seed-planter is designed to address the lack of tea seed seeding equipment, low seeding efficiency, and poor seeding uniformity. Based on the physical characteristics of the tea seeds and the agronomic requirements of tea planting, the key structure of the planter is designed, and the structural parameters are determined. The motor and battery configurations are determined by calculating the power consumption of the entire machine. In a field experiment, the driving gear (A), ditching depth (B), and planting gear position (C) are used as test factors, and the acceptance index (AI), replay index (RI) and leakage index (LI) are used as test indexes. The test results showed that the driving speed and planting gear position significantly affect the acceptance index, replay, and leakage index, whereas the ditching depth has little effect on the performance indexes. When the driving speed was medium, ditching depth was 30 mm, and planting gear position was in the third gear, the corresponding acceptance index was 87.22%, the replay index was 8.89%, and the leakage index was 3.89%. The test prototype has a good working quality and can provide theoretical guidance for production practices.
Efficient Eye State Detection for Driver Fatigue Monitoring Using Optimized YOLOv7-Tiny
Authors: Chang Gwo-Ching , Zeng Bo-Han , Lin Shih-Chiang
Published: March 2024

This study demonstrates the efficacy of structured pruning and architectural fine-tuning on the YOLOv7-tiny model for eye state detection, emphasizing optimization for real-time applications. Structured pruning significantly reduced the model's complexity and storage size while maintaining high detection accuracy, as evidenced by stable precision, recall, and mAP@.5 metrics across iterations. Further fine-tuning adjusted the model's width and depth, optimizing efficiency and processing speed without compromising performance. These optimizations yielded YOLOv7-tiny variants that are both computationally efficient and accurate, suitable for resource-constrained environments. The findings highlight the critical role of model optimization in deploying effective neural networks for specific detection tasks in real-time scenarios.