bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PENGARUH PROFITABILITAS, GROWTH OPPORTUNITY, STRUKTUR MODAL TERHADAP NILAI PERUSAHAAN PADA PERUSAHAAN PUBLIK DI INDONESIA (STUDI KASUS SEKTOR PERTAMBANGAN PADA TAHUN 2018-2021)
Authors: Ariestantia Bella , Yulistina Yulistina , Hasbullah Hasbullah
Published: September 2023

Riset ini bertujuhan guna tahu Peran Profitabilitas, Growth Opportunity, Struktur ModalTerhadap Nilai Perusahaan Pada Perusahaan Terbuka di Indonesia (Studi Kasus SektorPertambangan Tahun 2018-2021). Populasi ketika riset ini adalah Perusahaan Terbuka diWilayah Pertambangan selama periode 2018-2021. Contoh penentuan memakai metodepengujian purposive, contoh riset ini adalah 12 organisasi dalam jangka waktu yang cukuplama. Eksplorasi ini memakai pemeriksaan kuantitatif yang jelas. Prosedur penelusuraninformasi yang digunakan adalah uji Asumsi Klasik, uji Regresi Linier Berganda, uji RKoefisien Determinasi, uji F dan uji T memakai program adaptasi SPSS 23. Dari hasilestimasi, koefisien assurance (Adjusted R Squared) sebesar 0,718 menunjukkan bahwa71,8% faktor manfaat, pengalaman belajar, dan konstruksi modal dapat membuat sense offirm worth sedangkan sisanya 28,2% dipengaruhi oleh faktor yang berbeda. Kemudianmelalui uji F faktor Profitabilitas, Growth Opportunity dan Struktur Modal secara bersamasama berpengaruh terhadap Nilai Perusahaan yang seharusnya dapat dilihat dari nilaiFhitung > Ftabel (35,882 > 3,24). Selanjutnya dilihat dari uji T memprliatkan jikaProfitabilitas berperan drastis atas nilai perusahaan, Peluang Pertumbuhan berperan atasnilai perusahaan, dan Struktur Modal berperan atas nilai perusahaan..
Taste shaped the use of botanical drugs
Authors: Leonti Marco , Baker Joanna , Staub Peter , Casu Laura , Hawkins Julie
Published: September 2023

The perception of taste and flavour (a combination of taste, smell, and chemesthesis), here also referred to as chemosensation, enables animals to find high-value foods and avoid toxins. Humans have learned to use unpalatable and toxic substances as medicines, yet the importance of chemosensation in this process is poorly understood. Here, we generate tasting-panel data for botanical drugs and apply phylogenetic generalised linear mixed models to test whether intensity and complexity of chemosensory qualities as well as particular tastes and flavours can predict ancient Graeco-Roman drug use. We found chemosensation to be strongly predictive of therapeutic use: botanical drugs with high therapeutic versatility have simple yet intense tastes and flavours, and 21 of 22 chemosensory qualities predicted at least one therapeutic use. In addition to the common notion of bitter tasting medicines, we also found starchy, musky, sweet, and soapy drugs associated with versatility. In ancient Greece and Rome, illness was thought to arise from imbalance in bodily fluids or humours, yet our study suggests that uses of drugs were based on observed physiological effects that are often consistent with modern understanding of chemesthesis and taste receptor pharmacology.
Wall segmentation in 2D images using convolutional neural networks
Authors: Bjekic Mihailo , Lazovic Ana , K Venkatachalam , Bacanin Nebojsa , Zivkovic Miodrag , Kvascev Goran , Nikolic Bosko
Published: September 2023

Wall segmentation is a special case of semantic segmentation, and the task is to classify each pixel into one of two classes: wall and no-wall. The segmentation model returns a mask showing where objects like windows and furniture are located, as well as walls. This article proposes the module’s structure for semantic segmentation of walls in 2D images, which can effectively address the problem of wall segmentation. The proposed model achieved higher accuracy and faster execution than other solutions. An encoder-decoder architecture of the segmentation module was used. Dilated ResNet50/101 network was used as an encoder, representing ResNet50/101 network in which dilated convolutional layers replaced the last convolutional layers. The ADE20K dataset subset containing only interior images, was used for model training, while only its subset was used for model evaluation. Three different approaches to model training were analyzed in the research. On the validation dataset, the best approach based on the proposed structure with the ResNet101 network resulted in an average accuracy at the pixel level of 92.13% and an intersection over union (IoU) of 72.58%. Moreover, all proposed approaches can be applied to recognize other objects in the image to solve specific tasks.
Population structure and genetic diversity of Tamarix chinensis as revealed with microsatellite markers in two estuarine flats
Authors: Jiang Zhao-Yu , Yang Ao-Ao , Zhang Hai-Guang , Wang Wen-Bo , Zhang Ru-Hua
Published: September 2023

Background

Tamarix chinensis Lour. is a 3–6-meter-tall small tree with high salt- and alkali- tolerance and aggressive invasiveness, mainly distributed in the eastern part of China in warm-temperate and subtropical climate zones, yet there is little information available regarding genetic diversity and population structure.

Methods

A total of 204 individuals of nine T. chinensis populations were investigated for genetic diversity and population structure using a set of 12 highly polymorphic microsatellite markers.

Results

The total number of alleles detected was 162, the average number of effective allele was 4.607, the average polymorphism information content (PIC) value of the 12 loci was 0.685, and the mean observed heterozygosity (Ho) and the mean expected heterozygosity (He) was 0.653 and 0.711, respectively. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) showed a 5.32% genetic variation among T. chinensis populations. Despite a low population differentiation, Bayesian clustering analysis, discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPC) and the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) clearly identified three genetic clusters correlated to the populations’ geographic origin: the northern populations including those from Yellow River Delta, the Fangshan (FS) population from Beijing, the Changyi (CY) population from Bohai Bay, the Huanjiabu (HHJ) population from Hangzhou Bay, and the remaining two populations from Hangzhou Bay. There was a significant relationship between the genetic distance and geographical distance of the paired populations. Gene flow (Nm) was 4.254 estimated from FST.

Conclusion

T. chinensis possessed high genetic diversity comparable to tree species, and although the population differentiation is shallow, our results classified the sampled populations according to sampling localities, suggesting the different origins of the study populations.
Explicating genetic architecture governing nutritional quality in pigmented rice
Authors: Sudan Jebi , Urwat Uneeb , Farooq Asmat , Pakhtoon Mohammad Maqbool , Zaffar Aaqif , Naik Zafir Ahmad , Batool Aneesa , Bashir Saika , Mansoor Madeeha , Sofi Parvaze A. , Sofi Najeebul Ul Rehman , Shikari Asif B. , Khan Mohd. Kamran , Hossain Mohammad Anwar , Henry Robert J. , Zargar Sajad Majeed
Published: September 2023

Rice is one of the most important staple plant foods that provide a major source of calories and nutrients for tackling the global hunger index especially in developing countries. In terms of nutritional profile, pigmented rice grains are favoured for their nutritional and health benefits. The pigmented rice varieties are rich sources of flavonoids, anthocyanin and proanthocyanidin that can be readily incorporated into diets to help address various lifestyle diseases. However, the cultivation of pigmented rice is limited due to low productivity and unfavourable cooking qualities. With the advances in genome sequencing, molecular breeding, gene expression analysis and multi-omics approaches, various attempts have been made to explore the genetic architecture of rice grain pigmentation. In this review, we have compiled the current state of knowledge of the genetic architecture and nutritional value of pigmentation in rice based upon the available experimental evidence. Future research areas that can help to deepen our understanding and help in harnessing the economic and health benefits of pigmented rice are also explored.
From the perspective of rumen microbiome and host metabolome, revealing the effects of feeding strategies on Jersey Cows on the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Yuan Niuniu , Wang Yicui , Pan Qihao , Zhao Li , Qi Xiao , Sun Shihao , Suolang Quji , Ciren Luobu , Danzeng Luosang , Liu Yanxin , Zhang Liyang , Gao Tengyun , Basang Zhuza , Lian Hongxia , Sun Yu
Published: September 2023

Background

Previous studies have discussed the effects of grazing and house feeding on yaks during the cold season when forage is in short supply, but there is limited information on the effects of these feeding strategies on Jersey cows introduced to the Tibetan Plateau. The objective of this study was to use genomics and metabolomics analyses to examine changes in rumen microbiology and organism metabolism of Jersey cows with different feeding strategies.

Methods

We selected 12 Jersey cows with similar body conditions and kept them for 60 days under grazing (n = 6) and house-feeding (n = 6) conditions. At the end of the experiment, samples of rumen fluid and serum were collected from Jersey cows that had been fed using different feeding strategies. The samples were analyzed for rumen fermentation parameters, rumen bacterial communities, serum antioxidant and immunological indices, and serum metabolomics. The results of the study were examined to find appropriate feeding strategies for Jersey cows during the cold season on the Tibetan plateau.

Results

The results of rumen fermentation parameters showed that concentrations of acetic acid, propionic acid, and ammonia nitrogen in the house-feeding group (Group B) were significantly higher than in the grazing group (Group G) (P < 0.05). In terms of the rumen bacterial community 16S rRNA gene, the Chao1 index was significantly higher in Group G than in Group B (P = 0.038), while observed species, Shannon and Simpson indices were not significantly different from the above-mentioned groups (P > 0.05). Beta diversity analysis revealed no significant differences in the composition of the rumen microbiota between the two groups. Analysis of serum antioxidant and immune indices showed no significant differences in total antioxidant capacity between Group G and Group B (P > 0.05), while IL-6, Ig-M , and TNF-α were significantly higher in Group G than in Group B (P < 0.05). LC–MS metabolomics analysis of serum showed that a total of 149 major serum differential metabolites were found in Group G and Group B. The differential metabolites were enriched in the metabolic pathways of biosynthesis of amino acids, protein digestion and absorption, ABC transporters, aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, mineral absorption, and biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids. These data suggest that the house-feeding strategy is more beneficial to improve the physiological state of Jersey cows on the Tibetan Plateau during the cold season when forages are in short supply.
Evaluating the Turkish validity and reliability of the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire in periodontal diseases
Authors: Önder Canan , Bakirarar Batuhan
Published: September 2023

Background

The Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (Brief IPQ) is a widely used multifactorial scale that assesses the individuals’ perceptions of illness. Although there are studies investigating the psychometric properties of the Brief IPQ in many languages, the Turkish version of Brief IPQ on periodontal diseases has not been revealed so far. This study aimed to evaluate the Turkish validity and reliability of the Brief IPQ and contribute to the literature. It is also aimed to evaluate the patients’ illness perception with periodontal disease and to reveal the possible effects of the disease on the patients’ daily life.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted with 209 patients with periodontal diseases (137 gingivitis and 72 periodontitis cases). Sociodemographic characteristics and clinical periodontal measurements of all patients were recorded. The Turkish versions of the Brief IPQ and the HAD Scale were applied to the patients via face-to-face. The construct validity was determined using confirmatory factor analysis. Test–retest reliability and internal consistency were performed using ICC test and Cronbach’s alpha, respectively. The concurrent validity was determined by using Spearman’s correlation coefficient.

Results

The confirmatory factor analysis showed that the scale has one factor. The Spearman’s correlation coefficient results were found 0.843 and 0.854 for concurrent validity. Cronbach’s alpha value of the scale was 0.944 in the internal consistency analysis. ICC value was found to be 0.987 for test-retest reliability. Floor/ceiling effects were considered not to be present.

Conclusions

It was found that the Turkish version of The Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire is valid and reliable. Brief IPQ may be used to determine the illness perception in patients with periodontal diseases.
Mejorando los programas de mejoramiento: etnografía como método de diseño para el mejoramiento cualitativo de condominios sociales.
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Facultad de Arquitectura, Diseño y Estudios Urbanos, Simeone Montero Diego Francisco
Published: September 2023

El devenir de las políticas públicas de vivienda en Chile se caracteriza por la aparición de los denominados “programas de mejoramiento”, que buscan mejorar la habitabilidad de las viviendas deterioradas. Si bien suponen un avance en torno al déficit cualitativo, poseen limitaciones metodológicas y conceptuales que impiden generar una oferta que se adapte a las necesidades de los habitantes. Así, reconociendo la urgencia que supone la rehabilitación de los condominios sociales de mediana altura, esta tesis buscará proponer una metodología abierta de diseño desde la arquitectura y el diseño urbano, basada en el método etnográfico, a través de la revisión crítica de literatura y fuentes históricas, análisis gráfico, trabajo de campo, revisión de casos de estudio y un ejercicio proyectual aplicado a la Villa Naciones Unidas en Peñalolén.
Catálogos del paisaje del agua. Nuevos imaginarios resilientes 2023
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Escuela de Arquitectura, Barahona Jessica , Martínez carlos , Bermúdez Diego , Espinoza Ravanal María Alejandra , Brito Ithurralde Pablo , Santander Lizama Benjamín , Cassanelli Espejo Angela , Ibieta Illanes Paulina
Published: September 2023

La presente edición recoge una selección de investigaciones y trabajos, presentados en la primera versión del seminario “Catálogos del Paisaje del Agua. Investigaciones en Proceso”, realizada en mayo del año 2022. El seminario desde sus inicios, se enmarca en la investigación vigente “Catálogos del Paisaje del Agua. Nuevos Imaginarios Resilientes”(Inv. Responsable Gloria Saravia Ortiz), propuesta que reconoce primeramente a estos particulares paisajes, a partir del elemento ‘agua’ que juega un rol protagónico en sus orígenes y también en su configuración actual, reflejado tanto en sus dinámicas, procesos y funcionamiento, como también en la percepción cultural del territorio. Se presentan las propuestas enfocadas en casos nacionales de la arquitecta Angela Cassanelli, la agrónoma Ma Alejandra Espinoza, y los arquitectos Pablo Brito y Benjamín Santander; y la propuesta localizada en Colombia del arquitecto Carlos Martínez. A estos cinco artículos se suman las propuestas de tres arquitectos/as invitados/as, que nos permiten evidenciar riquezas, conflictos y desafíos para nuestros paisajes del agua latinoamericanos; trabajos ya presentados y hoy compartidos en esta edición por las arquitectas Jessica Barahona (Honduras) y Paulina Ibieta (Chile), y el arquitecto Diego Bermúdez (Colombia). La edición del volumen estuvo a cargo de Angela Cassanelli.
Facility location considering complex customer behavior
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Escuela de Ingeniería, Méndez Vogel Gonzalo Ignacio
Published: September 2023

El comportamiento del cliente es el factor más importante a tener en cuenta en la localización de tiendas. Las empresas que consiguen entender este concepto pueden percibir ganancias. Por este motivo, es importante mejorar los modelos de localización óptima utilizando una definición correcta del comportamiento del cliente. Sin embargo, por increíble que parezca, el campo de la localización óptima ha modelizado comportamientos de clientes muy simplificados. Excepto por unos pocos, los modelos y métodos existentes consideran que los clientes solo se desplazan a una única tienda. En la práctica, los clientes visitan más de una tienda, sobre todo si compran más de un producto o hacen comparaciones antes de adquirir uno. Desde hace muy poco, algunos artículos consideran los viajes de compra con varias paradas. Sin embargo, suponen que los clientes eligen su viaje considerando únicamente factores determinísticos, como el precio y la distancia. En cambio, hay varios factores no medibles que afectan a las elecciones de los clientes y que deben incluirse. Todos estos aspectos constituyen lo que denominamos comportamiento complejo del cliente. En esta tesis, ampliamos la literatura existente sobre localización óptima de tiendas, proponiendo por primera vez formulaciones y métodos que consideran múltiples viajes y componentes aleatorias. Además, se introducen modelos que captan decisiones secuenciales y correlación entre alternativas. Se ponen a disposición de investigadores y prácticos, modelos más cercanos a la realidad para obtener información para los responsables de la toma de decisiones tanto en condiciones colaborativas como competitivas. Se proponen métodos basados en generación de planos cortantes para resolver instancias de gran escala. Se realiza un análisis detallado de los distintos comportamientos de los clientes para que los modelos de localización reflejen la realidad mejor que hasta ahora. Los modelos propuestos se validan mediante experimentos computacionales, mostrando que las elecciones de los clientes presentadas son mas coherentes con la realidad.
Obesidad materna y morbimortalidad neonatal, Servicio de Salud Metropolitano Sur Oriente, Chile, 2014-2018
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Escuela de Medicina, Chéry Oméga
Published: September 2023

Introducción : La prevalencia de la obesidad pasa de 1,333 millones en 2005 a 2,100 millones en 2013 en el mundo, con previsión de alcanzar 3,280 millones de sobrepeso y obesidad en 2030. En Chile, la obesidad creció de 22.9% a 31.2% con mayor prevalencia en mujeres y el grupo etario de 30-49 año. Autores concluyeron que la obesidad materna (OM) es un factor de riesgo para la madre y el recién nacido (RN). Proponemos estudiar la relación entre OM y el riesgo de morbimortalidad neonatal. Método: Realizamos un estudio de cohorte retrospectiva a partir de datos de nacimiento del SSMSO de 2014-2018, obteniendo datos de 19,546 madres y RN. Recopilamos medidas sociodemográficas, del estado nutricional al inicio y durante el embarazo y antecedentes mórbidos para las madres. Mientras que los datos de los RN corresponden a las condiciones de nacimiento y de salud perinatal y neonatal. Estimamos promedios, frecuencias absolutas y relativas. La asociación estadística se determina con riesgo relativo, Odds ratio, p-value<0.05 e IC95%. Los factores de confusión se controlan mediante análisis multivariado con regresión logistica. Resultados: Predomina el sexo masculino (51.3%) en los RN, con promedio de peso al nacer 3,327.1± 575.6 gramos, edad gestacional 38.4±2.0 semanas. Las morbilidades y condiciones neonatales más incidentes eran sucesivamente la admisión neonatal a urgencia (8.8%), la macrosomía fetal (9.2%) y la hospitalización neonatal (10.6%). La mortalidad neonatal (MN) era de (5.2‰). Con respecto a las madres , el promedio de edad era de (27.4±6.1) años. Un (28.8%) era obesa con diferencia con las no obesas en cuanto a la edad, nivel educacional, nivel socio económico y antecedentes de hipertensión arterial, diabetes mellitus e hipertiroidismo. El riesgo de MN (ORa=1.5; 95%IC=1.1-2.3) y macrosomía fetal (ORa=1.7; 95%IC=1.7-2.1) era más elevado en los RN de madres obesas con respecto a los de madres no obesas. La ganancia de peso gestacional excesiva (GPGE) se asocia positivamente con la macrosomia fetal (ORa=1.8; IC95%=1.6-2.0) y admisión neonatal a urgencia (ORa=1.2; IC95%=1.1-1.4), mientras que se asocia negativamente con bajo peso al nacer (ORa=0.6;IC95%=0.5-0.8) y de nacimiento pretérmino (ORa=0.7; IC95%= 0.5-0.8). La GPGE no se asocia con la MN (p=0.265). Conclusiones: La OM parece estar asociada positivamente con la mortalidad neonatal y la macrosomía fetal. La GPGE suele asociarse positivamente con la macrosomía fetal y la admisión neonatal a urgencia, mientras que no se asocia con MN. Se recomienda promover el mantenimiento del peso adecuado antes del embarazo y el aumento de peso gestacional adecuado.
Estudio Longitudinal de Expectativas de Niños y Niñas sobre la Psicoterapia Infantil
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Escuela de Psicología, Curifuta Herrera Pamela Rossana
Published: September 2023

Estudio cualitativo con diseño longitudinal, con tres momentos de entrevista, para conocer las expectativas de los/as participantes y sus transformaciones durante el proceso terapéutico. Los tres momentos de entrevistas fueron, una al inicio de la psicoterapia, la segunda a los tres meses del proceso terapéutico y la tercera a los seis meses en que finalizaba la terapia. Las entrevistas se aplicaron en el contexto de un dibujo que se les pidió realizar a cada participante, sobre sí mismo/a en la terapia y en relación con su terapeuta. El uso del dibujo fue una adecuación metodológica para investigar con niños y niñas. En este estudio participaron 5 niños/as de entre 6 y 10 años de edad, que eran consultantes recién ingresando a centros de atención psicoterapéutica ambulatoria de Santiago. En esta investigación se considera a niños y niñas como sujetos sociales activos, capaces de producir sus propios significados y de manifestarlos de manera particular.
Estudio teórico de la formación de PAHs y derivados mediante el mecanismo HAVA: uso de la fuerza de reacción en reacciones de interés astroquímico en el medio interestelar
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Facultad de Química y Farmacia, Misad Saide Alessandra Cristina
Published: September 2023

En el presente trabajo de tesis utilizamos herramientas teóricas y computacionales para elucidar mecanismos de formación de especies aromáticas a partir de benzonitrilo y vinilacetileno, en el contexto de la Astroquímica: en condiciones de bajas temperaturas y por medio del mecanismo HAVA. Se usó la fuerza de reacción para caracterizar las etapas elementales del mecanismo HAVA cuando el anillo aromático principal posee un grupo ciano. Se trabajó dentro del marco de la Teoría de Funcionales de la Densidad utilizando el funcional M08-HX. Para la reacción entre benzonitrilo y vinilacetileno, se consideraron cinco posibles caminos de reacción y se identificaron tres posibles productos: 1-naftonitrilo, 2-naftonitrilo y 3-etinilisoquinolina. Mientras que la formación de los dos primeros se presenta como un proceso con barreras sumergidas, la formación de 3-etinilisoquinolina presenta una energía de activación de 51 kcal/mol debido a cambios estructurales; consecuencia de la participación del nitrógeno en la etapa de ciclación. Por otro lado, el estudio de la formación de fenantreno-9-carbonitrilo mostró que este producto es posible en condiciones de nubes moleculares. Los resultados muestran que la presencia del grupo ciano no afecta las etapas del mecanismo HAVA, las cuales presentan barreras energéticas de naturaleza principalmente estructural, a menos que el nitrógeno participe en la etapa de ciclación. Aunque poco probable en ambientes fríos del medio interestelar, la formación de moléculas policíclicas aromáticas que contengan nitrógeno en uno de sus anillos -un paso importante en la búsqueda del origen de la vida- es posible mediante el mecanismo HAVA. Adicionalmente, por medio del estudio de la formación de fenantreno, se evidenció la dependencia que existe entre la sincronía de un proceso y las interacciones no covalentes presentes en el sistema. Finalmente, el estudio de la formación de 3-etinilisoquinolina develó que la fuerza de reacción es una poderosa herramienta para identificar geometrías de estados de transición en la superficie de energía potencial a través del análisis de la constante de fuerza de reacción.
A Holistic Approach to Land Valuation Using Automated Valuation Models (AVMs): A Case Study in Homagama Divisional Secretarial Administrative Boundary, Sri Lanka
Authors: Nisansala H. R. M. , Kaluthanthri P. C.
Published: September 2023

Land valuation is a crucial process that involves the comprehensive assessment of specific land parcels to estimate their worth based on market value or predefined value base on valuation standards and regulations. Traditionally, this process has relied on expert involvement, often leading to different value figure for the same land by different valuation officers. While minor variations are considered acceptable, concerns have been raised regarding the lack of transparency, accuracy, and efficiency in the traditional approach. In response to these challenges, this study proposes an innovative system leveraging the potential of automated valuation models (AVMs) and big data applications in the real estate domain to address the limitations of traditional land valuation methods. The objective of the study is to enhance the transparency and accuracy of land valuation through the integration of a holistic data interpretation system, improved information exchange between AVM projects and property valuation, and the automation of specific workflows for property assessment. The study focuses on the Homagama Divisional Secretarial administrative boundary in Sri Lanka as a case study area for implementing the proposed AVM-based valuation model. The methodology adopts a multi-criteria approach with expert validation, considering various causative factors influencing land value, such as access to transportation, proximity to schools, distance from government and commercial establishments, proximity to hospitals, slope, land use, distance to urban centers, and population. To determine the relative importance of each factor, the Analytical Hierarchical Process (AHP) is utilized, providing a rational and consistent weighting approach. The AVM is developed using ArcGIS software and Weighted Overlay Analysis, effectively capturing the spatial distribution of land values within the study area. The research results in the classification of the Homagama Divisional Secretary area into distinct land value classes, ranging from very low to very high valued areas. In order to ensure the accuracy and validation of the model, the estimated AVM for land lot cadaster data, is reviewed alongside real-world land value data. The valuation map produced presents a graphical representation of the value of each land parcel, thereby facilitating rapid decision-making processes. Additionally, the study highlights the potential for further enriching the model with additional factors beyond those initially considered. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the value of AVMs in revolutionizing land valuation by providing a transparent, accurate, and efficient approach. The proposed model serves as a valuable tool for decision-makers, stakeholders, and property professionals in their efforts to assess land values and make informed real estate investment decisions.
Reproductive Success of Intra-specific Hybridization between Two Strains of Clarias gariepinus from Katsina-ala and Gboko, North East, Nigeria
Authors: Uruku Ndekimbe Mamndeyati , Abur Fidelis Orseer
Published: September 2023

The intra-specific hybridization investigation was carried out at the Federal University Wukari, Fisheries and Aquaculture research farm. Clarias gariepinus broodstock was obtained from Katsina-Ala and Gboko in order to investigate the reproductive success among the inbred and crossbred individuals. Data on reproductive success (fertilization, hatchability, and survival), and the frequency of shooters were acquired. The result showed that the crossbreds of ♂G x ♀K had a greater percentage fertilization of 66.3% than ♂K x ♀G (62.03%).  Inbred of ♂K x ♀K and ♂G x ♀G showed higher hatchability of 80.24% and 73.47%, respectively, whereas their crosses showed no significant difference. Because there is no statistically significant difference in survival at initial feeding between inbred and crossbred, the inbred performed better at the advanced fry stage. The frequency of shooters was higher in inbred of ♂G x ♀G with 4% and crossbred of ♂K x ♀G with 3.6%, while the inbred of ♂K x ♀K has a lower value of 3.4% and crossbred of ♂G x ♀K with 3.0%. Katsina-Ala (♂K x ♀K) inbred produced the best results. As a result, broodstock selection and management are critical in avoiding the prevalence of unfavorable traits in C. gariepinus for Aquaculture.
Effect of Thermal, and Microwave Treatment on Bioactive Compound, Antioxidant Activity, and Sensory Quality of Lime-Flavored Dragon Fruit RTS Beverage
Authors: Patel Dharmendrakumar , Bhise Suresh
Published: September 2023

Aims: The aim of the current study was to investigate the effect of lime juice standardization on sensory evaluation, and changes in betacyanin content, antioxidant activity, and sensory attributes of lime-flavored dragon fruit RTS beverage processed with thermal, and microwave processing.

Study Design: CRD and Factorial CRD.

Place and Duration of Study: College of Food Processing Technology & Bioenergy, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, between October 2021 to july 2023.

Methodology: The dragon fruit RTS beverage (12% fruit juice, 0.1% citric acid, and 12°Brix TSS) was incorporated with 3% lime juice on the sensory evaluation basis was subjected to thermal, and microwave processing. The thermal treatment was carried out for 5, 10, and 15 min at 70, 80, and 90°C, while microwave treatment was done at fixed power density of 900 W for 30, 60, 90, 120, and 150 sec for lime-flavored dragon fruit RTS beverage.

Results: The RTS processed for 5 min at 70°C was found best among all thermal treatments on the basis of better betacyanin content retained in RTS (23.80 mg/L), and 73.43% antioxidant activity, whereas 30 sec of exposure time at 900 W power density had better betacyanin content (29.87 mg/L), and 54.31% antioxidant activity than other microwave treatments.

Conclusion: The betacyanin retention was higher for microwave processing than thermal processing, whereas antioxidant activity was reported higher for thermal treatment.
Sustainable Biofuel Production from Agricultural Residues an Eco-Friendly Approach: A Review
Authors: Guddaraddi Apoorva , Singh Anita , Amrutha G.  , Saikanth D. R. K. , Kurmi Ramkishor , Singh Gurinder , Chowdhury Manojit , Singh Bal Veer
Published: September 2023

Biofuel production from agricultural residues presents an innovative solution to the global energy challenge. This study delves into the potential of using such residues as a renewable feedstock, addressing the pressing need to transition from conventional fossil fuels. By evaluating various agricultural residues' types and characteristics, a comprehensive assessment of their worldwide availability and potential yield was undertaken. Emphasizing sustainable and eco-friendly approaches, the research underscores closed-loop systems, efficient utilization of co-products, and the imperative of a holistic life cycle assessment (LCA) for biofuel production. The LCA revealed a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, emphasizing water conservation and waste reduction during the process. Despite the evident potential, there are identifiable challenges, primarily technological research gaps, economic constraints, infrastructural limitations, and regulatory hurdles. Yet, the undeniable benefits include a notable reduction in carbon footprint, effective resource management, and a bolstered economy, especially for agrarian communities. Policies promoting sustainable farming practices, incentivizing research and development, and fostering collaborations are recommended. Such a framework can enhance biofuel infrastructure, necessitate regular monitoring, and optimize the biofuel production process. Conclusively, while challenges persist, with cohesive policy recommendations and technological innovations, agricultural residues can pivot as the linchpin in a sustainable energy future.
Assessment of Morphological and Physico-chemical Properties of Dominant Soil Series in Western and North-Western Zones of Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Pervin Julekha , Sellamuthu K. M. , Srinivasan R. , Santhi R.
Published: September 2023

A comprehensive soil analysis was conducted in the Western and North-Western regions, encompassing four districts: Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Erode and Salem in Tamil Nadu, India. Owing to differences in topography and terrain features, seven distinct soil series i.e. Somayanur, Ammapettai, Palathurai, Tulukkanur, Yethapur, Suramangalam and Salem were recognized. Seven representative pedons were examined for their morphological, physical and physico-chemical attributes. The soils range from shallow to profoundly deep, with drainage varying from well-drained to poorly drained. When moist, they exhibit a hue from light brown to dark red to dark brown and when dry light brown to light yellowish brown. Soils have textures spanning from light (sandy loam) to heavy (silty clay). The pH values ranged from 6.2 to 8.92 in water, 5.41 to 7.68 in CaCl2 and 5.65 to 7.89 in KCl, Electrical conductivity (EC) varied between 0.11 and 0.41 dS m-1, organic carbon content was between 1.2 g.kg-1 and 9.6 g.kg-1, cation exchange capacity varies from 5.60 to 30.80 cmol(p+).kg-1, base saturation percentage and exchangeable sodium percentage varies from 81.0 to 98.2% and 0.37 to 3.88%. Free calcium carbonate of soil ranges from 0 to 10 % which indicates non-calcareous to calcareous nature of soils. Implementing suitable site-specific technologies is essential for attaining sustainable productivity of the soils of Western and North-Western Zones of Tamil Nadu.
A Comparative Study for Estimating Reference Evapotranspiration Models over Kano, Nigeria
Authors: Abdulsalam M. K. , Akpootu D. O. , Aliyu S. , Isah A. K.
Published: September 2023

The major factor faced by Agricultural activities is water scarcity. Water is very essential in Agricultural activities (plantation), crop acquires water naturally by precipitation and subsurface moisture, when the supply of water is inadequate for crop use, mostly results to irrigation. This present study estimates and compares six various universally accepted models for estimating reference evapotranspiration (ET0) for Kano situated in the Sahelian climatic zone of Nigeria using measured meteorological parameters of monthly average daily global solar radiation, sunshine hour, wind speed, minimum and maximum temperatures and relative humidity covering a period of thirty one years (1988 – 2018). Four different statistical validation indices of Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), Mean Bias Error (MBE), Mean Absolute Error (MAE) and coefficient of correlation (R) were carried out to test the accuracy of the evaluated models. The result indicated that high value of ETo was found in the month of April with 10.0256 mm/day for Kano and a low value was found to be in August with 5.0804 mm/day for Kano. The Blaney – Morin Nigeria model was found more accurate for Kano with RMSE, MBE, MAE and R values as 1.5078 mm/day, -1.4634 mm/day, 1.4634 mm/day and 0.9790 respectively.
Summarizing Evidence of Associations of COVID‐19 With a Future Diagnosis of Inflammatory Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases: A Rapid Review
Authors: Mudge Hannah R. , Honey Jonathan R. , Tachoukaft Sara , Hider Samantha L. , Mason Kayleigh J. , Welsh Victoria K. , Burton Claire
Published: September 2023

Objective

Musculoskeletal symptoms are commonly reported following acute COVID‐19. It is unclear whether those with musculoskeletal symptoms subsequently develop inflammatory rheumatic musculoskeletal disease (iRMD). This review seeks to identify evidence for an association between acute COVID‐19 and subsequent iRMD diagnosis.

Methods

A rapid review of the literature using a systematic search of Medline, EMBASE and two COVID‐19 databases was undertaken until August 2022. Case studies, case series, cross‐sectional, case‐control, and cohort studies reporting patients with an incident iRMD following COVID‐19 were included. Title and abstract screening were conducted by one reviewer and full text screening by two reviewers. Data extraction and quality appraisal were by one reviewer, with a second verifying. Study‐type specific critical appraisal tools were used.

Results

Results were narratively synthesized. A total of 80 studies were included (69 case reports, 10 case series and 1 cross‐sectional study). Commonly reported iRMDs were “reactive arthropathies” (n = 47), “inflammatory arthropathies unspecified” (n = 18), rheumatoid arthritis (n = 12) and systemic lupus erythematosus (n = 11). The cross‐sectional study reported 37% of those with COVID‐19 developed “post COVID arthritis.” Time from diagnosis of COVID‐19 to iRMD presentation ranged from 0 to 120 days. Several mechanisms were proposed to explain the association between COVID‐19 and iRMD development: autoimmune processes, aberrant inflammatory responses, colonization of joint spaces, direct damage from the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 virus and genetic predisposition.

Conclusion

The level of evidence of the studies included in this review was low and the quality generally poor. Prospective observational studies are required to confirm associations and likely impact of post COVID‐19 iRMDs at a population level.
TIGIT may Serve as a Potential Target for the Immunotherapy of Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Hong Xin , Yu Chengfan , Bi Jianlong , Liu Qing , Wang Qiang
Published: September 2023

This study aims to explore whether TIGIT is an effective target for the immunotherapy of renal cell cancer (RCC) with PD‐1 as a positive control. The expression of TIGIT and PD‐1 in RCC and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and the correlation between TIGIT and PD‐1 are evaluated. The expression of TIGIT and PD‐1 is inhibited, and then the proliferation, apoptosis, and migration are assessed. TIGIT expression is positively related to the expression of PDCD1, BTLA, ICOS, and FOXP3 (p < 0.05). TIGIT expression in the PBMC, TIL, RCC, and adjacent normal tissues is higher than PD‐1 expression. Blocking the TIGIT and PD‐1 signaling pathways significantly inhibits the proliferation, migration, and invasion of RCC cells and promotes their apoptosis. These effects are more evident in TIGIT inhibitors than in PD‐1 inhibitors. TIGIT inhibitor mainly regulates the expression of differential genes to achieve the reconstruction of immune killing and restore the killing effect on the RCC, and its mechanism by which TIGIT functions overlap that of PD‐1 inhibitor. TIGIT may become a target for the immunotherapy of RCC, and there is a theoretical basis for the combination of TIGIT inhibitors and PD‐1 inhibitors for the treatment of RCC.
Enhancing Neural Stem Cell Stimulation with Structured Piezoelectric Composites: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Jarkov Vlad , Waqar Imaan , Penev Aleksandar , Bowen Chris , Adams Christopher , Khanbareh Hamideh
Published: September 2023

Spinal cord injuries can cause permanent tissue damage with debilitating and lasting effects on patients. Electrical stimulation has been established as an effective approach for promoting neural regeneration. However, the clinical applicability of these techniques is limited by the necessity for wired connections and external power supplies, which increases risk of infection. Piezoelectric materials have the inherent ability to form electric surface potentials when subjected to a mechanical stress and can provide wireless electrical stimulation. However, current materials are not optimized for neurological applications as they are mechanically mismatched with neural tissue, and have poor biocompatibility. Further, reproducible systems for optimizing material design and stimulation paradigms have yet to be established. Here a new, advanced fabrication process to produce scalable, tuneable piezoelectric ceramic–polymer composites based on [K0.5Na0.5]NbO3 and polydimethylsiloxane is provided. It is demonstrated that these composites can be successfully utilized for the growth of neural stem cells, which are shown to survive, proliferate, retain stemness, and differentiate into their daughter populations. Neuronal differentiation appears to be preferred on poled substrates, in comparison to glass coverslips and unpoled substrates. It is shown that the composites can autonomously generate surface potentials, which opens new possibilities to study piezoelectrically induced electrical stimulation.
On the Importance of Chemical Precision in Organic Electronics: Fullerene Intercalation in Perfectly Alternating Conjugated Polymers
Authors: Vanderspikken Jochen , Liu Zhen , Wu Xiaocui , Beckers Omar , Moro Stefania , Quill Tyler James , Liu Quan , Goossens Arwin , Marks Adam , Weaver Karrie , Hamid Mouna , Goderis Bart , Nies Erik , Lemaur Vincent , Beljonne David , Salleo Alberto , Lutsen Laurence , Vandewal Koen , Van Mele Bruno , Costantini Giovanni , Van den Brande Niko , Maes Wouter
Published: September 2023

The true structure of alternating conjugated polymers—the state‐of‐the‐art materials for many organic electronics—often deviates from the idealized picture. Homocoupling defects are in fact inherent to the widely used cross‐coupling polymerization methods. Nevertheless, many polymers still perform excellently in the envisaged applications, which raises the question if one should really care about these imperfections. This article looks at the relevance of chemical precision (and lack thereof) in conjugated polymers covering the entire spectrum from the molecular scale, to the micro and mesostructure, up to the device level. The different types of polymerization errors for the alkoxylated variant of the benchmark (semi)crystalline polymer poly[2,5‐bis(3‐tetradecylthiophen‐2‐yl)thieno[3,2‐b]thiophene (PBTTT) are identified, visualized, and quantified and a general strategy to avoid homocoupling is introduced. Through a combination of experiments and supported by simulations, it is shown that these coupling defects hinder fullerene intercalation and limit device performance as compared to the homocoupling‐free analog. This clearly demonstrates that structural defects do matter and should be generally avoided, in particular when the geometrical regularity of the polymer is essential. These insights likely go beyond the specific PBTTT derivatives studied here and are of general relevance for the wider organic electronics field.
Alternating Current Electroluminescence for Human‐Interactive Sensing Displays
Authors: Jiang Wei , Lee Seokyeong , Zan Guangtao , Zhao Kaiying , Park Cheolmin
Published: September 2023

The development of stimuli‐interactive displays based on alternating current (AC)‐driven electroluminescence (EL) is of great interest, owing to their simple device architectures suitable for wearable applications requiring resilient mechanical flexibility and stretchability. AC‐EL displays can serve as emerging platforms for various human‐interactive sensing displays (HISDs) where human information is electrically detected and directly visualized using EL, promoting the development of the interaction of human–machine technologies. This review provides a holistic overview of the latest developments in AC‐EL displays with an emphasis on their applications for HISDs. AC‐EL displays based on exciton recombination or impact excitations of hot electrons are classified into four representative groups depending upon their device architecture: 1) displays without insulating layers, 2) displays with single insulating layers, 3) displays with double insulating layers, and 4) displays with EL materials embedded in an insulating matrix. State‐of‐the‐art AC HISDs are discussed. Furthermore, emerging stimuli‐interactive AC‐EL displays are described, followed by a discussion of scientific and engineering challenges and perspectives for future stimuli‐interactive AC‐EL displays serving as photo‐electronic human–machine interfaces.
An Intelligent Metasurface for Self‐Adaptive Electromagnetic Manipulation of Transmission/Absorption Frequency and Amplitude
Authors: She Ying , Ji Chen , Huang Cheng , Peng Jinqiang , Yuan Liming , Liao Jianming , Huang Jingkai , Luo Xiangang
Published: September 2023

Intelligent metasurfaces have recently attracted much interest due to their strong capability of self‐adaptive electromagnetic (EM) manipulation. However, their realization still faces great challenges, especially in the recognition and modulation of multi‐EM parameters. Here, an intelligent metasurface is proposed that can automatically manipulate its transmission/absorption frequency and amplitude to adapt to the complicated and ambiguous EM environment. By integrating a radio‐frequency sensing module and a closed‐loop feedback system, the incident wave frequency and amplitude information can be recognized and then the corresponding instruction will be generated to make such a metasurface achieve the predefined EM functions. Experimental results have demonstrated that it can realize the dynamic switching between transmission and absorption with the variation of incident power intensity, and meanwhile the transmission/absorption amplitude can be also further adjusted. In addition, this metasurface possesses the frequency‐agile capability, which can self‐adaptively control its transmission/absorption frequency to match the incident frequency. The proposed approach opens a new avenue to promote the development of multifunctional intelligent metasurfaces toward a wide range of real‐time application fields, such as smart EM windows and active camouflage.
Assembly of Photochromic Molecules into Multiple Stimuli‐Responsive Hollow Microparticles via Templating Coordination
Authors: Peng Chenxi , Lv Weizhen , Chen Xue , Suh Yung Doug , Liu Xiaowang
Published: September 2023

Supramolecular multifunctional metal–organic networks offer immense potential in drug delivery, bioimaging, catalysis, and therapeutics. However, the creation of multiple stimuli‐responsive fluorescent hollow nano/microparticles is a formidable challenge in this field. In this study, a novel strategy is reported for synthesizing photochromic hollow microparticles that exhibit responsiveness to light, pH, and glutathione (GSH). With the assistance of templating coordination from zeolitic imidazolate framework‐8 microparticles, bisphosphonate‐merocyanine ligands are successfully assembled to create hollow bisphosphonate‐spiropyran (BPSP)‐Zn2+ microparticles. The photochromic and pH responses stem from the reversible conversion between spiropyran and zwitterionic merocyanine components and between merocyanine and protonated merocyanine, respectively. The GSH response is attributed to the stronger affinity of Zn2+ to thiol groups than to phosphonate groups. These remarkable features render the hollow BPSP‐Zn2+ microparticles highly suitable for applications in stimulus‐triggered drug delivery, and these findings provide a platform for developing innovative materials that have the potential to transform the biomedical field.