bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increase the Efficacy of Weed Control from Wheat Culture Using the Asymmetrical Twin Flat Spray Air Injector Nozzles – IDTA
Authors: Roman Alin Raoul , Ranta Ovidiu , Vac Călin , Roman Ioana
Published: May 2023

The paper work presents the results of a series of experimental research during two years, on the flow rate distribution of asymmetrical twin flat spray air injector nozzle (IDTA) in the wheat crop. In this respect, this paper aims to highlight the importance of using suitable nozzle types, adequate pressure and spray height for an efficacy of phytosanitary treatment in field crops. The research contributes to the implementation in the experimental field of digital technologies monitoring weeds, by using advanced information technology solutions in agriculture, respectively use of mobile thermospectral cameras attached to drones with a high degree of independence and specific programs for processing. In order to make the phytosanitary treatments more efficient in wheat crop, under the climatic conditions of the Transylvanian Plain, it is recommended to use the IDTA asymmetric double jet nozzle with air injection, based on the performances obtained in an experimental field, due to the constructive solutions that give it a uniformly high sprayed flow. The action of this type of nozzle is characterized not only by reducing the density of the weeds identified, but also by eradicating three species (Polygonum spp., Chenopodium album and Xanthium spp.), out of the total of the seven identified. The results of studies performed in laboratory conditions and experimental fields, in order to use this type of nozzle, led to the largest spray coating surfaces, both at the level of leaf tissue and at soil surface level.
Effect of Foliar Antibroadleaf Herbicides on Fat Content in Seeds of Various Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) Cultivars
Authors: Barakova Teodora , Delchev Grozi , Valkova Neli , Sturzu Rodica , Cojocaru Jeni , Meluca Cristina
Published: May 2023

In this study was investigate the effect of vegetative treatment with the herbicides Basagran 480 SL, Pulsar 40 and Express 50 WG on the fat content of seeds of different Bulgarian cotton cultivars. The experiment was carried out with twelve Bulgarian cotton cultivars (Gossypium hirsutum L.) - Chirpan-539, Helius, Trakia, Vicky, Philipopolis, IPK-Veno, Boyana, Avangard, Natalia, Darmy, Dorina and Nelina. The herbicides were applied at the bud formation stage of cotton. Fat content in cotton seeds was determined by extraction - SR ISO 6492 method. For the first time in the world it has been established that in the vegetative treatment with herbicides the most valuable with regard to cotton seed fat content are all cultivars treated with Basagran 480 SL, except Chirpan-539 and Helius. It has been established that the treatment with the Express 50 WG herbicide less affected the cultivars Chirpan-539, Helius, Trakia, Vicky, Philipopolis, IPK-Veno, Boyana, Avangard, Natalia but all cultivars were negative influenced by the treatment with the herbicide Pulsar 40 with regard to fat content in seeds.
Investigation of Biological Control of Trichoderma Formulations and Its Mutant Type Related to Chemical Treatments in the Control of Soybean Charcoal Rots Disease
Authors: Orojnia Soheil , Habibi Davood , Shahbazi Samira , Paknejad Farzad , Ilkaee Mohammad Nabi
Published: May 2023

In order to study biological control of soybean charcoal rot disease using multiple mutant Trichoderma formulations with gamma ray, an experiment under greenhouse conditions was performed in the years 2017 and 2018 at Karaj Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute. Beside control the experiment consisted of 16 treatments including chemical and commercial fungicides and inoculation of mutant and non-mutant soybean with Trichoderma fungi. The results showed that the effect of treatments was significant for all morphological and physiological characteristics of soybean. The use of Trichoderma treatments had a positive influence on plant morphological characteristics such as pod number, stem dry weight, stem length, number of branches and physiological traits such as peroxide, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and carotenoids. As a result, they increased the yield so that the highest average of 11.75 g per pot was registered to the seed coating treatment with wild Trichoderma (PW). The use of fungal treatments increases proline and malondialdehyde content and the incidence of disease is reduced by using Trichoderma.
Contributions to Knowledge of Subalpine Meadows in the Apuseni Mountains - Biharia Massif
Authors: Buia Ana Maria , Burescu Laviniu Ioan Nuțu , Mateș Iosif Constantin , Vlad Ioana Andra , Ștef Simina Florica , Bartha Szilárd
Published: May 2023

The main purpose of this work is the development of a phytocenologic, ecological, bioeconomic and eco-protective study of the natural meadows dominated by Festuca nigrescens and Scorzonera rosea in the Biharia Massif, Western Carpathians. In order to achieve the objectives pursued, a number of 11 phytocenologic surveys were performed on the most representative sample surfaces, homogeneous in terms of flora, with the same seasonal requirements and a similar physiognomy. The species from the floristic inventory were recorded in the association table subordinated to the corresponding coenotaxa, alliance, order, class, noted with the corresponding abundance and dominance coefficients. As a result, the phytocenoses of the association Scorzonero roseae Festucetum nigricantis were surveyed on the basis of tables, charts, diagrams, histograms on the distribution of species according to the ecological factors i.e. humidity, temperature, soil chemical reaction, ecological categories of bioforms, phytogeographic and cytogenetic elements. The succession dynamics, the importance, and the sustainable and eco-protective management of these meadows were dealt with in our study. The results thus obtained were compared with four reference papers of some authors who have carried out research in different geographical areas. We found the rare, endangered, endemic species for which suitable household and conservation measures have been proposed.
Birokrasi Pelayanan Publik di Kelurahan Talumolo Kecamatan Dumbo Raya Kota Gorontalo
Authors: Ma’ruf Pricilia , Sakir Mochammad , Bau Hasan
Published: May 2023

This study aims to find out how the Public Service Bureaucracy in the Talumolo Village Office, Dumbo Raya District, Gorontalo City. This study uses service performance indicators concerning the opinion of Dwiyanto (2012: 50) namely: 1) Productivity, 2) Service Quality, 3) Responsiveness, 4) Responsibility, and 5) Accountability. The method used in this research is a qualitative approach with descriptive presentation. The informants in this study were seven people, five were employees of the Talumolo Village Office and two were the people of Talumolo Village. The data collection technique used in this research is using observation, interview, and documentation techniques. This study uses interactive data analysis techniques through data collection, data reduction, data presentation, and concluding. The results of the research on the Public Service Bureaucracy at the Talumolo Village Office, Gorontalo City, namely the productivity indicators, employee productivity at the Talumolo Village Office is still not good and still needs to be improved. The indicators of responsiveness and accountability of employees at the Talumolo sub-district office are classified as good, while the accountability indicators are still not good.
Pengaruh Pengawasan Terhadap Kinerja Pegawai Aviation Security Di Bandar Udara Djalaluddin Gorontalo
Authors: Ramdani Dwiki , Razak Darmawaty Abd. , Prahara Sandi
Published: May 2023

Kinerja adalah hasil atau seluruh pencapaian besar seseorang selama periode tertentu dalam menyelesaikan suatu tugas dibandingkan dengan kemungkinan lain, misalnya, pedoman kerja, sasaran atau target dan ukuran yang telah diselesaikan sebelumnya dan telah disetujui secara umum. Faktor eksternal yang mempengaruhi kinerja pegawai yakni pengawasan. Penelitian ini untuk mengetahui apakah Pengawasan berpengaruh pada Kinerja Pegawai Aviation Security (AVSEC) di Bandar Udara Djalaludin Gorontalo. Metode penelitian ini adalah metode survey dengan mengambil sampel berjumlah 70 responden menggunakan teknik sampling jenuh (sensus) yang menggunakan instrumen kuesioner. Metode analisis yang digunakan yakni analisis korelasi, koefisien determinasi dan analisis regresi sederhana diolah melalui program SPSS 21. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa adanya pengaruh positif pengawasan (X) terhadap kinerja (Y) pegawai Avsec di Bandar Udara Djalaludin Gorontalo sebesar 0,355 (35,5%). Adapun sebesar 0,645 (64,5%) dipengaruhi oleh variabel lain yang tidak dikaji yang berupa disiplin kerja, motivasi kerja dan sebagainya. Hasil penelitian menggunakan uji korelasi Pengawasan Terhadap Kinerja Pegawai Avsec di Bandar Udara Djalaludin Gorontalo ada tingkat hubungan yang sedang sebesar (r= 0,596).
COMMUNICATION STRATEGY IN PROVIDING INFORMATION TO CUSTOMERS AT THE REGIONAL WATER COMPANY OF COPRONTALO CITY
Authors: Pakaya Putri Anggreany , Subhan Andi , Ratnasari Dwi
Published: May 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui strategi komunikasi yang dilakukan oleh PDAM (Perusahaan Daerah Air Minum) Kota Gorontalo dalam memberikan informasi kepada pelanggan. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian deskriptif kualitatif. Pengumpulan data dalam penelitian ini dilakukan melalui observasi, wawancara, serta dokumentasi untuk memperoleh informasi yang terjadi di lapangan. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukan bahwa PDAM Kota Gorontalo telah menerapkan strategi komunikasi, yaitu melalui: (1) Mengenal Khalayak; Khalayak sasaran perusahaan difokuskan kepada calon pelanggan, pelanggan sebagai target penerima informasi. (2) Menyusun pesan; Pesan yang dimaksud ialah berupa penerangan oleh perusahaan terkait keluhan pelanggan yang diajukan hingga informasi umum yang dibutuhkan oleh pelanggan. (3) Penggunaan Media; Media sosial banyak digunakan sebagai alat dalam memberikan informasi kepada pelanggan karena kecepatan dan kemudahan dalam proses komunikasinya.  PDAM Kota Gorontalo juga memanfaatkan media cetak seperti koran, baliho, dan pamflet. (4) Menetapkan metode ; Beberapa metode yang digunakan oleh PDAM Kota Gorontalo dalam memberikan informasi yaitu redundancy; yaitu metode penyampaian pesan secara berulang, edukatif; yaitu metode penyampaian pesan dengan cara menerangkan pesan disesuaikan dengan fakta dan data yang terjadi di lapangan. Dan metode informatif; yaitu penerangan dan pemahaman yang diberikan oleh perusahaan sehingga dapat merubah tingkah laku khalayak perusahaan.
Disiplin Pegawai Pada Kantor Camat Patilanggio Kabupaten Pohuwato
Authors: Nento Yusuf , Umuri Hasman , Saleh Gretty Syatriani
Published: May 2023

Tujuan Penelitian adalah  untuk mengetahui dan memperoleh gambaran tentang disiplin pegawai di Kantor Camat Patilanggio Kabupaten Pohuwato. Obyek  penelitian adalah pegawai pada kantor Camat Patilanggio Kabupaten Pohuwato.  yang penelitian ini dilakukan kurang lebih 2 bulan, sedangkan desain penelitian, penulis menggunakan metode kualitatif, dengan informan penelitian 10 orang informan. Hasil Penelitian menunjukan bahwa disiplin pegawai melalui peran pemimpin di Kantor Camat Patilanggio Kabupaten Pohuwato terlihat dalam pelaksanaan penyelenggaran melalui pelayanan yang dilakukan pegawai negeri yang ada di Kantor Camat Patilanggio, yang sudah dijalankan bersama-sama. Kepemimpinan Camat yang telah menunjang tugas dari pegawai yang dilakukan melalui pengarahan, pembinaan serta pengawasan menjadi penyemangat pegawai dalam menjalankan tugas pelayanan dengan baik. Perhatian Camat dalam mendisiplinkan pegawainya adalah sebuah kewajiban ynag harus dilaksanakan agar tercapai tujuan organisasi tersebut. Camat sebagai penyelenggara pemerintahan memberikan pelayanan kepada masyarakat melalui bantuan pegawai yang ada, sesuai dengan tugasnya masing-masing. Kepemimpinan yang efektif hanya akan terwujud apabila dijalankan sesuai dengan fungsinya secara bersama-sama dengan bawahan. Disiplin dalam konsep dimensi motivasi bagi pegawai negeri sipil di Kantor Camat Patilanggio merupakan dimensi yang sangat mendukung dalam penyelenggaraan pemerintahan terutama dalam memberikan pelayanan publik. Pegawai yang menjadi ujung tombak dalam pelayanan publik di kantor Camat Patilanggio senantiasa melaksanakan tugas dan fungsi sesuai dengan tugas dan fungsinya serta berdasarkan peraturan yang berlaku. Pegawai diberikan motivasi dalam memperbaiki segala layanan yang dberikan kepada masyarakat tidak lepas dari peran semua unsur pimpinan terutama dalam membangun iklim kerja yang kondusif serta menyenangkan pegawai dalam melaksanakan tanggungjawabnya. Dorongan yang diberikan pimpinan kepada bawahan dapat menumbuhkan dalam melahirkan inisiatif dalam menjalankan pekerjaannya. Secara menyeluruh pegawai memiliki tanggungjawab dalam mencapai tujuan organisasi Kantor Camat Patilanggio Kabupaten Pohuwato, yang menjadi dimensi ketiga dari disiplin kerja pegawai di Kantor Camat Patilanggio adalah penegakan disiplin melalui hukum.
Pengaruh Sikap Dan Kompetensi Kerja Terhadap Kualitas Pelayanan Publik Di Kantor Camat Suwawa Kabupaten Bone Bolango
Authors: Kalepo Romin , Sakir Mochammad , Mediansyah Achmad Risa
Published: May 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh sikap dan kompetensi kerja terhadap kualitas pelayanan publik di Kantor Camat Suwawa Kabupaten Bone Bolango. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode survei dengan pendekatan kuantitatif. Pendekatan kuantitatif diartikan sebagai metode penelitian yang berlandaskan pada filsafat positivisme, digunakan untuk meneliti pada populasi atau sampel tertentu, pengumpulan data menggunakan instrumen penelitian, analisis data bersifat kuantitatif/statistik, dengan tujuan untuk menguji hipotesis yang telah ditetapkan. Jumlah sampel dalam penelitian ini adalah 38 orang. Adapun metode analisis data menggunakan analisis regresi berganda. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa sikap berpengaruh secara signifikan terhadap kualitas pelayanan public, sementara kompetensi kerja berpengaruh terhadap kualitas pelayanan publik, namun tidak signifikan. Walaupun demikian, arah pengaruh yang positip menunjukkan bahwa semakin tinggi kompetensi kerja pegawai, akan membuat pelayanan publik semakin berkualitas. Di samping itu, sikap dan kompetensi kerja secara simultan/bersama-sama berpengaruh signifikan terhadap kualitas pelayanan publik. Secara parsial/sendiri, sikap memiliki pengaruh yang paling dominan, dan kompetensi kerja tidak secara signifikan berpengaruh terhadap kualitas pelayanan publik di Kantor Camat Suwawa Kabupaten Bone Bolango.

This study aims to determine the effect of attitudes and work competencies on the quality of public services at the Office of Camat Suwawa, Bone Bolango Regency. This study uses a survey method with a quantitative approach. Quantitative approach is defined as a research method based on the philosophy of positivism, used to examine certain populations or samples, data collection using research instruments, data analysis is quantitative/statistical, with the aim of testing predetermined hypotheses. The number of samples in this study were 38 people. The method of data analysis using multiple regression analysis. The results showed that attitude had a significant effect on the quality of public services, while work competence had an effect on the quality of public services, but not significantly. However, the positive direction of influence indicates that the higher the employee's work competence, the higher the quality of public services. In addition, attitudes and work competencies simultaneously/together have a significant effect on the quality of public services. Partially, attitude has the most dominant influence, and work competence does not significantly affect the quality of public services at the Office of Camat Suwawa, Bone Bolango Regency.
Hubungan Pendidikan Dan Pelatihan Terhadap Kinerja Pegawai Di Dinas Sosial Kabupaten Banggai Laut
Authors: Lemu Mohamad Rifaldi S. , Arman Arman , Dunggio Swastiani
Published: May 2023

Penelitian berada di Dinas Sosial Kabupaen Banggai Laut Provinsi Sulawesi Tengah dengan objek penelitian pendidikan dan pelatihan terhadap kinerja pegawai di dinas sosial. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah mengetahui seberapa besar hubungan pendidikan dan pelatihan terhadap kinerja pegawai di Dinas Sosial Kabupaten Banggai Laut. Metode yang digunakan dan diterapkan di penelitian ini melalui pendekatan kuantitatif dengan penyajian secara deskripsi. Hasil peneltian ini adalah Besarnya pengaruh secara simultan antara variabel pendidikan dan pelatihan (X) terhadap kinerja pegawai (Y) tergolong kuat, dengan nilai Fhitung sebesar 8,358 dan signifikan 0,011 < 0,05, dengan mempunyai hubungan secara simultan sebesar 0,581 dan probability 0,00572 < 0,05 dan besarnya kontribusi sumbangan dari hubungan tersebut adalah 0,5812 x 100% = 33,80 atau 34% hal ini menunjukan tingkat hubungan yang rendah. Walaupun rendah tetapi mempunyai persamaan regresi yang baik, dengan Ŷ = α + β . X = 8,358 + 0,0601.(X). Ini artinya saat sekarang nilai kinerja pegawai sebesar 8,358 dan jika ada penambahan (+) maka naik dengan pengaruh sebesar 0,0601.

The research is in the Social Service of Banggai Laut Regency, Central Sulawesi Province with the object of research being education and training for employees in the social service. The purpose of this study was to determine how big the relationship between education and training for employees at the Social Service of Banggai Laut Regency is. The method used and applied in this research is through a quantitative approach with a descriptive presentation. The results of this study are the magnitude of the simultaneous influence between education and training (X) on employee performance (Y) is quite strong, with a Fcount value of 8.358 and a significant 0.011 < 0.05, with a simultaneous relationship of 0.581 and a probability of 0.00572 < 0, 05 and the contribution of the contribution of the relationship is 0.5812 x 100% = 33.80 or 34% this shows a low level of relationship. Although low, it has a good regression equation, with Ŷ = α + β. X = 8.358 + 0.0601.(X). This means that the current value of employee performance is 8.358 and if there is an addition (+) then it increases with an effect of 0.0601.
Pengaruh Profesionalisme Aparatur Terhadap Akuntabilitas Pelayanan Publik Di Kantor Camat Kota Timur
Authors: Ignasius Marcelino , Sakir Mochamad , Abdussamad Novaliansyah
Published: May 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui besarnya pengaruh profesionalisme aparatur terhadap akuntabilitas pelayanan publik di Kantor Camat Kota Timor Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif dengan metode survey Jumlah sampel dalam penelitian ini adalah 37 orang. Metode analisis data menggunakan analisis regresi sederhana. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa profesionalisme aparatur berpengaruh terhadap akuntabilitas pelayanan publik di Kantor Camat Kota Timur sebesar 0,764 atau 76,4% Hal ini berarti aparatur di Kantor Camat Kota Timur sadah memiliki profesionalisme dalam melaksanakan tugasnya unyuk mewujudkan akuntabilitas pelayanan publik yang diberikan kepada masyarakat.
This study aims to find to what extent the effect of apparatus professionalism on public service accountability at the Subdistrict Office of Kota Timur. This study employs a quantitative approach with a survey method. The number of samples in this study consists of 37 people. The data analysis method used is simple regression analysis. The results of the study indicate that apparatus professionalism affects public service accountability at the Subdistrict Office of Kota Timur by 0.764 or 76.4%. It means that the apparatus at the Subdistrict Office of Kota Timur has already had professionalism in carrying out the duties to realize the public service accountability provided to the community.
Partisipasi Masyarakat Pada Pelaksanaan Reses Anggota DPRD Fraksi PAN Kota Gorontalo
Authors: Thalib Heriyanto , Nusi Marten , Razak Darmawaty Abd
Published: May 2023

Dalam setiap pelaksanaan reses anggota DPRD Fraksi PAN Kota Gorontalo ditemukan beberapa persoalan, salah satu yang paling dominan adalah partisipasi masyarakat yang masih kurang dari berbagai aspek.  Penelitian ini bertujuan mengetahui dan mendeskripsikan Partisipasi Masyarakat Pada Pelaksanaan Reses Anggota Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat Daerah (DPRD) Fraksi Partai Amanat Nasional (PAN) Kota Gorontalo.  Metode penelitian yang diterapkan adalah desain kualitatif.  Observasi, wawancara dan dokumentasi menjadi alat pengumpulan data penelitian.  Informan ditentukan secara purposif dengan pertimbangan pengetahuan yang dimiliki terhadap fokus penelitian.  Analisis data menggunakan formulasi Miles dan Huberman. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa: 1) Partisipasi masyarakat pada pelaksanaan reses anggota Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat (DPRD) Fraksi Partai Amanat Nasionak (PAN) Kota Gorontalo secara faktual dapat dilihat melalui dua pendekatan, yaitu partisipasi dalam bentuk ide/gagasan dan partisipasi dalam bentuk fisik atau kehadiran pada setiap pelaksanaan reses. Partisipasi masyarakat berupa penyampaian ide atau usulan-usulan yang konstruktif secara umum belum begitu terlihat di tiga daerah pemilihan anggota DPRD dari Fraksi Partai Amanat Nasional Kota Gorontalo.  2)  Faktor penghambat partsipasi masyarakat dalam pelaksanaan reses terlihat pada beberapa hal, yaitu (1) komunikasi antara anggota DPRD dengan masyarakat. Komunikasi bukan hanya pada sisi penyampaian orasi anggota DPRD saat reses, namun juga pesan-pesan diawal sebagai media informasi perdana bagi masyarakat tentang reses. Pada dasarnya, hambatan itu berasal dari sisi apatisme masyarakat yang disebabkan oleh komunikasi dan tingkat pendidikan masyarakat.
AN APPROACH TO ATTAINING SUSTAINABILITY BY ENHANCING THE ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS THAT AFFECT THE QUALITY OF URBAN LIFE
Authors: ALghamdi Saleh Y , Qureshi Mohamed , Almakayeel Naif , Mansour Mohamed , Khadar Shaik Abdul
Published: May 2023

Assessing the quality of present urban life was the main aim of this paper. This research concentrated mainly on four environmental sustainability indicators: physical, social, economic, and eco-friendly factors. An attempt was made to attain sustainability by identifying and comparing various assessment indicators and, finally, to rank the weights of the sustainable elements. It was essential to analyse the sustainable indicators to have a risk-free, safe, and tranquil life that is free from pollution hazards. The challenge lay in realising this by sharing knowledge and records, which is one of the main factors in successful approaches. The present study evaluated and prioritised the indicators and factors of sustainable urban life. The concept of sustainability has become significant in the need to improve the quality of urban life. A structured questionnaire survey was conducted with 510 expert delegates who participated in an open-ended interview to identify the sustainability indicators that are focused mainly on the quality of urban life. The data was analysed using an analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to prioritise the factors for urban life sustainability.
COULD DIGITAL UBUNTU BE THE SOUTH AFRICAN VERSION OF INDUSTRY 4.0?
Authors: Mangaroo-Pillay Mia , Roopa Meelan , Maisiri Whisper
Published: May 2023

Advanced technologies are satisfying the demands of individuals and of industry. But what about employees? Various organisations have begun to explore adopting new technologies and increasing employee buy-in. ‘Digital Ubuntu’ is a newly coined term that describes collaborating with each other to solve a problem digitally. This discussion paper aims to explore the use and unpack the implications of using the term “Digital Ubuntu” around the adoption of advanced technology in South Africa. This paper concludes that Digital Ubuntu could significantly impact employee buy-in, the adoption of advanced technology, and policymaking. This study offers direction for further exploration of Digital Ubuntu.
THE ROLE OF PROJECT MANAGER COMPETENCE IN PROJECT MANAGEMENT SUCCESS: THE CASE OF A UTILITY COMPANY
Authors: Blom Theuns , Steyn Herman , Bond-Barnard Taryn Jane
Published: May 2023

A project manager’s competency depends on the project’s complexity and includes a unique set of personal attributes and the ability to apply appropriate leadership styles. This paper reports on a Delphi study that includes the views of 30 experts – employed by a utility that executes projects with different levels of complexity. The results confirm that project manager competence is influenced by leadership styles that are appropriate for specific project lifecycle stages and levels of project complexity, as well as specific personal attributes. The study thus provides guidance regarding the project manager competence that is required for specific situations.
A DYNAMIC APPROACH TO IMPROVING THE PRODUCTIVITY OF A SOUTH AFRICAN FOUNDRY INDUSTRY
Authors: Nyakala Stephen , Moore Mbali , Ramdass Kemlall Ramsaroop
Published: May 2023

Systems for refining and handling foundries have evolved rapidly in recent years. However, the South African foundry industry has been contracting since 2007, when its annual output was at 660 400 tonnes. The objective of the current study was to investigate productivity improvement measures that would contribute in improving the productivity of Gauteng foundries. A quantitative cross-sectional survey research design was used for the study, and a purposive sampling technique was chosen to provide insight into the specific study. The quantitative data obtained from the study was analysed using several statistical tools. Exploratory factor analysis with Varimax rotation of 23 Likert-scale questions in the questionnaire was performed on data gathered from 143 participants. Factors with eigen values greater than 1 were retained using the Kaiser selection criterion. These factors were related to foundry management and leadership, labour, and machinery. Analysis of the reliability of the results indicated that Cronbach’s alpha for all thirty productivity factors was 0.9472. This α ≥ 0.70 indicated a good consistency in the selected items in the questionnaire. Based on the results, a proposed productivity framework was developed, contemplating the integration of lean thinking, manufacturing tools, and the Deming cycle, and providing a systematic and holistic approach to problem-solving through the application of the plan-do-check-act (PDCA) cycle in the foundry industry.
LATENT FACTORS OF HUMAN CAPITAL AND BUSINESS PROCESSES OPTIMISATION AS A MEANS OF VALUE CREATION IN BRAZILIAN ORGANISATIONS
Authors: Andrade Flavio , Neto Julio , Filho José
Published: May 2023

This study aims to identify the latent dimensions of human capital and of business process optimisation that affect value creation in organisations. As a method, an exploratory factorial analysis was applied to identify the latent dimensions. The article shows that the correlation between human capital and process optimisation is not noticeable. Moreover, the article reveals the original aggregation of 15 variables in four latent factors by factorial analysis. Finally, it shows a negative correlation between the ‘earnings management’ factor and the other factors; and this confirmation highlights the need to practise a systemic view of organisations.
TOWARDS SMART CITIES IN SOUTH AFRICA: EVOLUTION, DEFINITIONS, AND FUTURE CITIES
Authors: du Toit Brendan Rudolph , Stimie Johann Erasmus
Published: May 2023

High urbanisation rates lead to increasing pressure on governments to provide sustainable living conditions. This article aims to explore the approaches that smart city projects around the world use to address some of these challenges. The evolution of cities is landmarked by technological innovation; and the successful use of Internet of Things (IoT) technology seems to be another landmark. In this article the focus falls first on the evolution of cities and the definition and future of smart cities. In part two the focus is on the challenges and opportunities that South Africa faces in its quest to build smart cities.
Climate Change Education within Canada’s Regional Curricula: A Systematic Review of Gaps and Opportunities
Authors: Field Ellen , Spiropoulos Gia , Nguyen Anh Thu , Grewal Rupinder K.
Published: May 2023

This paper reports on curriculum analysis of climate change expectations in Canada’s provincial curricula. The research is focused on curriculum policy in Canadian provinces; however, it pertains to an international audience as Article 12 of the Paris Agreement, the international treaty on climate mitigation, adaptation and finance, calls for signatories to “enhance climate change education,” and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) have called for environmental education to be a core curriculum component by 2025, which will require all countries to evaluate and improve their curricula globally. Curriculum policy within Canada has not yet been aligned with these policy calls, and our analysis showed fractured and uneven inclusion of climate change. Data findings present explicit climate change education curriculum expectations for each province according to grade, subject, and mandatory versus elective courses. The review shows uneven inclusion of climate change topics, themes, and units within grade 7 – 12 curricula, with most expectations occurring in elective senior secondary courses. A second level of analysis with a ranking tool indicates shallow inclusion. The paper concludes with recommendations for addressing gaps.
Numerical Simulation of Highly Dispersive Dark Optical Solitons with Kerr Law of Nonlinear Refractive Index by Laplace–Adomian Decomposition Method
Authors: González-Gaxiola Oswaldo , Biswas Anjan , Yildirim Yakup , Dakova Anelia
Published: May 2023

This work is a numerical perspective to highly dispersive dark optical solitons by using Laplace-Adomian decomposition method. The results are reported using this scheme with highly precise accuracy and the error measure is stunningly low. The surface plots, density plots and error plots are exhibited for different parameter choices. The simulations are almost an exact replica of such solitons that analytically arise from the governing system. The suggested iterative scheme finds the solution without any discretization, linearization, or restrictive assumptions.
Behavioural Effects of Alkaloid Fraction from Narcissus cv. “Hawera” on Rats
Authors: Bakalov Dimitar , Pechlivanova Daniela , Sabit Zafer , Tafradjiiska Radka , Nikolova Milena , Stoynev Alexander , Berkov Strahil
Published: May 2023

Sceletium-type alkaloids containing plants have a long history of traditional use, but recent studies emphasize their use as supplements in the treatment of anxiety, stress, and depression disorder. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Sceletium-type alkaloid fraction from Narcissus cv. “Hawera” (MZM) on the anxiety and depressive-like behaviour in healthy female Wistar rats and rats with an experimental model of diabetes mellitus type 1 (T1DM), induced by streptozotocin injection. “Forced swimming”, “Open field”, “Elevated plus-maze” and “Paw-pressure” tests were used for the study of anxiety, depressive-like behaviour, habituation, and nociception, respectively. T1DM caused a significant decrease in overall motor activity, increased depressive-like behaviour, and impaired habituation to a new environment without altering the anxiety behaviour. MZM (20 mg/kg, 20 days) significantly attenuated depressive-like behaviour, reduced anxiety behaviour, and improved habituation in healthy rats without altering their overall motor activity. MZM treatment exerted weak influence on the DM-induced metabolic changes and did not change DM-induced behavioural abnormalities.
The Effect of Temperature on Flight Initiation of Pine Processionary Moth in Bulgaria
Authors: Zaemdzhikova Gergana , Zaevski Tsvetelin
Published: May 2023

The purpose of the present work is to study the temperature effect on the flight initiation of the Thaumetopoea pityocampa. Our results show that the flight initiation of males is at relatively lower temperatures than females. Also, the average temperature for the flight initiation of the summer form is lower than for the winter one. This indicates a better adaptability of the summer form to lower ambient temperatures which should favour its spread in habitats located at a higher altitude in the country.
The Vegetal Remains and the Bio-archaeological Findings: an Overview of Water Flotation Samples from Ancient Serdica (Sofia, Bulgaria)
Authors: Andonova-Katsarski Mila , Stoyanova Polina
Published: May 2023

This paper explains the method, borrowed from the discipline of paleobotany, of sample processing for water flotation retrieved from archaeological contexts and their adjacent sediments. It presents insights, including the specific methodological approach and initial results of the samples' assessment, from a case study of the archaeological site located at 35 Exarch Joseph St – now within the heavily urbanised city centre of Sofia, Bulgaria, but falling within the frame of Serdica during the Antiquity. New evidence deriving from the study of the water flotation samples is shown, along with an accent on the bio-archaeological and in particular – to the vegetal macro-remains, including those of charred and waterlogged seeds and wood species, such as deciduous oak, fir, pine and spruce.
First Evidence for Middle Miocene Petrified Wood Remains from the Bulgarian Black Sea Shore
Authors: Iamandei Stănilă , Iamandei Eugenia , Bozukov Vladimir , Simov Nikolay , Ivanov Dimiter
Published: May 2023

Ten specimens of Middle Miocene petrified wood remains collected from the Bulgarian shore of Black Sea, close to Byala locality, were analysed through a microscopic study. The samples originate from the Galata Formation and are of Chokrakian age. Eight of these are taxonomically identified as Populoxylon sp. (cf. Populus tremula L.). This find represents the first record of the genus Populoxylon in the Bulgarian Miocene flora. Based on the great similarity of the xylotomical features of studied specimens to those of the recent species, a close connection with recent Populus tremula is observed. Genus Populus is widespread in the fossil record of Bulgarian Cenozoic flora as leaf imprints.
Brain Computer Interface System for UAV Target Searching
Authors: Shi Tian , Qiang Jiao , Chang Guang , Ren Ling
Published: May 2023

This paper proposes a Brain Computer Interface (BCI) system for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) indoor space target searching. The monocular vision navigation subsystem provides three-dimensional (3D) space feasible flight directions. To realize four-class motor imagery (MI) electroencephalogram (EEG) features extraction (left/right-hand, feet and tongue), the decision subsystem adopts a mathematical paradigm combining “one versus one” (OVO) and “one versus rest” (OVR) to traditional Common Spatial Pattern (CSP). Simultaneously, it utilizes a 2-layer hierarchical support vector machine (HSVM) to realize the feature classification and final feasible flight direction decision. The actual indoor space target searching experiment verifies that this BCI system has good adaptability.
Determination of Feed Quality and Mallow Organic Residues
Authors: Ikhtiyar Anara , Bahram Farida
Published: May 2023

In this article, the quality of forage in pastures and meadows of the Ganja-Kazakh region was determined. Malva L., a species of the genus found in the Ganja-Kazakh region, introduced Malva erecta Presl. The number of remains of representatives of the Duzkalkhan species in the branches, the chemical composition of the green mass and roots were investigated. The main indicators of the chemical composition characterizing the importance of the feed include the content of dry matter, wet protein, nitrogen-free extractive substances, lipids, wet fibre, macroelements, ascorbic acid, carotene, etc. Given that the soil biomass of five sorghum species has been studied, the chemical composition of their seeds, plucked and harvested residues depending on a number of factors – duration, sowing method, effect of fertilizers, interaction of components, harvesting period, and annual conditions. The amount of uprooted stubble is reduced to a greater extent than mowed stubble. The nutritional value of a plant significantly depends on the content of nutrients, mineral elements and vitamins in the dry mass. The bud formation phase has less dry matter in the total above ground biomass compared to the flowering and fruiting phases. In terms of species, Malva sylvestris (Forest mallow) had the most dry matter in this period, and Malva nicaeensis (Turkmen mallow) had the least amount of dry matter. The amount of organic remains is highest in Malva pusilla species, and the smallest in Malva nicaeensis species, in contrast to roots.
Effects of Different Vitrification Temperatures and Cryoprotective Agent Concentrations on Ultrastructure and Apoptosis Related Proteins in Bovine GV Stage Oocytes
Authors: Liu Jia-Qi , Zhao Shi-Yu , Wang Xiao-Jing , Liu Yi-Heng , Li Xiao-Xia , Li Ying-Hua , Xu Zhi-Qian , Yu Xue-Li
Published: May 2023

The effects of different vitrification temperatures (VTs) and cryoprotective agent concentrations (CPAs) on the viability, ultrastructure, and apoptosis related proteins Bcl-2, Bax, and TP53 of bovine oocytes at the GV (germinal vesicle) stage were analyzed in this study. Cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) were randomized into five groups: fresh (control), LHe 5.6 M (liquid helium, -269\dg, cryoprotectant concentration of 5.6 M), LHe 6.6 M (liquid helium, –269°C, cryoprotectant concentration of 6.6 M), LN 5.6 M (liquid nitrogen, –196°C, cryoprotectant concentration of 5.6 M), LN 6.6 M (liquid nitrogen, –196°C, cryoprotectant concentration of 6.6 M). Statistically, in the vitrification groups, LN 5.6 M group showed the lowest rate of morphologically normal, mature, and cleavage (58.1%; 32.9%; 12.9%). LHe 5.6 M showed the highest cleavage rate (39.6%), as well as effectively ameliorated ultrastructural damage, significantly reduced Bax protein expression, effectively increased Bcl-2 protein expression, reduced TP53 protein expression, in general, it increased the anti-apoptotic ability of the oocytes after vitrification. It was concluded that lower vitrification temperature and decreased cryoprotectant concentrations upregulate the expression of Bcl-2 protein and downregulate the expression of Bax and TP53 protein in oocytes, and enhance the anti-apoptotic capacity of oocytes, ameliorated the damage of the ultrastructure of the oocytes, perhaps improved the developmental capacity of bovine GV stage oocytes after vitrification can be partially attributed to the above changes.
Python code smells detection using conventional machine learning models
Authors: Sandouka Rana , Aljamaan Hamoud
Published: May 2023

Code smells are poor code design or implementation that affect the code maintenance process and reduce the software quality. Therefore, code smell detection is important in software building. Recent studies utilized machine learning algorithms for code smell detection. However, most of these studies focused on code smell detection using Java programming language code smell datasets. This article proposes a Python code smell dataset for Large Class and Long Method code smells. The built dataset contains 1,000 samples for each code smell, with 18 features extracted from the source code. Furthermore, we investigated the detection performance of six machine learning models as baselines in Python code smells detection. The baselines were evaluated based on Accuracy and Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC) measures. Results indicate the superiority of Random Forest ensemble in Python Large Class code smell detection by achieving the highest detection performance of 0.77 MCC rate, while decision tree was the best performing model in Python Long Method code smell detection by achieving the highest MCC Rate of 0.89.
Does ankle push-off correct for errors in anterior–posterior foot placement relative to center-of-mass states?
Authors: Jin Jian , van Dieën Jaap H. , Kistemaker Dinant , Daffertshofer Andreas , Bruijn Sjoerd M.
Published: May 2023

Understanding the mechanisms humans use to stabilize walking is vital for predicting falls in elderly. Modeling studies identified two potential mechanisms to stabilize gait in the anterior-posterior direction: foot placement control and ankle push-off control: foot placement depends on position and velocity of the center-of-mass (CoM) and push-off covaries with deviations between actual and predicted CoM trajectories. While both control mechanisms have been reported in humans, it is unknown whether especially the latter one is employed in unperturbed steady-state walking. Based on the finding of Wang and Srinivasan that foot placement deviates in the same direction as the CoM states in the preceding swing phase, and assuming that this covariance serves the role of stabilizing gait, the covariance between the CoM states and foot placement can be seen as a measure of foot placement accuracy. We subsequently interpreted the residual variance in foot placement from a linear regression model as “errors” that must be compensated, and investigated whether these foot placement errors were correlated to push-off kinetic time series of the subsequent double stance phase. We found ankle push-off torque to be correlated to the foot placement errors in 30 participants when walking at normal and slow speeds, with peak correlations over the double stance phase up to 0.39. Our study suggests that humans use a push-off strategy for correcting foot placement errors in steady-state walking.
Reinstatement of Thysanotus elatior R.Br. (Asparagaceae)
Authors: Wang Jian , Barrett Russell , Wajer Jacek , Mabberley David , Forster Paul
Published: May 2023

Thysanotus elatior R.Br. (Asparagaceae) is reinstated, described, lectotypified and compared with putatively related species. The species is restricted to the Top End of the Northern Territory and the Kimberley of Western Australia but was previously confused with T. banksii R.Br., a Queensland species. Notes are provided on the distribution, habitat, phenology, conservation status and affinities of Thysanotus elatior. Thysanotus chinensis Benth. also occurs in north-western Australia and a key to distinguish the two is provided. The application of the names Thysanotus elatior and T. tuberosus R.Br. to material there is also discussed.
Integrated clinical opportunities for training offered through US doctor of chiropractic programs
Authors: Meyer Kevin W. , Al-Ryati Omar Y. , Cupler Zachary A. , Bonavito-Larragoite Gina M. , Daniels Clinton J.
Published: May 2023

Objective

The primary objective of this study was to assess, summarize, and compare the current integrated clinical learning opportunities offered for students who matriculated in US doctor of chiropractic programs (DCPs).

Methods

Two authors independently searched all accredited DCP handbooks and websites for clinical training opportunities within integrated settings. The 2 data sets were compared with any discrepancies resolved through discussion. We extracted data for preceptorships, clerkships, and/or rotations within the Department of Defense, Federally Qualified Health Centers, multi-/inter-/transdisciplinary clinics, private/public hospitals, and the Veterans Health Administration. Following data extraction, officials from each DCP were contacted with a request to verify the collected data.

Results

Of the 17 DCPs reviewed, all but 3 offered at least 1 integrated clinical experience, while 41 integrated clinical opportunities were the most offered by a single DCP. There was an average of 9.8 (median 4.0) opportunities per school and an average of 2.5 (median 2.0) clinical setting types. Over half (56%) of all integrated clinical opportunities were within the Veterans Health Administration, followed by multidisciplinary clinic sites (25%).

Conclusion

This work presents preliminary descriptive information of the integrated clinical training opportunities available through DCPs.
Impact of Soil Conditioners and Cyanobacteria under Varied Irrigation Levels on Growth and Productivity of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in Sandy Soil
Authors: Salem M. Gehan, , EL-Edfawy Y. M. , Mohamed M. S. , Ghazal F. Mona
Published: May 2023

During the winter seasons 2021/2022 and 2022/2023, two field experiments were conducted at the Ismailia Experiment Research Station in Ismailia Governorate, Egypt, to assess the effect of soil conditioners and cyanobacteria at different irrigation levels on the growth and productivity of wheat plants grown in sandy soil. The experimental treatments were arranged in the split-split plot design shown below:  Two bio fertilizer treatments were represented by subplot A0: no application and A1: cyanobacteria (Anabaena crcinalis) inoculation.  Four natural soil conditioner treatments at a rate of 2.4 mg ha-1 were arranged in sub-sub plot (control): no application, (Z) zeolite, (B) bentonite, and (F) feldspar. The results revealed that cyanobacteria inoculation combined with natural soil conditioners resulted in positive and statistically significant increases in all parameters studied. The highest mean values were obtained in the majority of cases when cyanobacteria and feldspar were combined in a 70% irrigation level, with no significant difference when cyanobacteria and feldspar were combined in full irrigation level. All growth parameters were increased per plant. The investigated factors had a significant impact on NPK uptake by grains and straw, total amino acid percentages in wheat grains, and available NPK in soil. Furthermore, the presence of cyanobacteria associated with soil conditioners led to an increase in soil dehydrogenase, indole acetic acid levels. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to use cyanobacteria and soil conditioners as natural resources to minimize water use while boosting the production and growth characteristics of wheat plants. Finally, the findings of this study suggested that inoculating wheat plants with cyanobacteria in combination with soil conditioners can reduce up to 30% of the total amount of water required by wheat plants, and that using natural resources and bio fertilizer can be recommended to improve soil fertility while minimizing the environmental impact of chemical fertilizer.
Analyzing Shooting Measurements in Football: An Exhaustive Review and Novel Findings
Authors: Zainuddin M. Said , Usman Arifuddin , Kamal Muhammad , Sudirman Akbar
Published: May 2023

This article comprehensively reviews football shooting analysis, discussing the most recent techniques and tools and proposing new ways to investigate shooting performance. The analysis demonstrates that measuring shooting parameters using various tools and techniques is possible precisely. However, most of these methods have limitations, such as expensive apparatus, a lack of real-time feedback, or the need for manual data processing. Wearable sensors and data integration are proposed as solutions for overcoming these obstacles. The review highlights the significance of shooting analysis in football and the potential of new technologies to enhance this process, thereby providing coaches and players with valuable insights. Validating these approaches and exploring their maximum potential in football analysis requires additional research.

Moreover, the approaches proposed in this study have the potential to increase the performance of individual players and team tactics. Coaches and players can better understand the team's strengths and weaknesses by combining shooting data with other performance metrics, such as player movement and team tactics. It can improve game-time decision-making and ultimately enhance the team's overall performance. The ability to monitor player fatigue and injury risk is another potential advantage of using wearable sensors and real-time feedback in shooting analysis. By consistently measuring shooting parameters, coaches and medical personnel can determine when a player's shooting technique is compromised due to fatigue or injury. Additional research is required to validate and realize these proposed approaches' potential thoroughly.