bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DEVELOPING DIGITAL LEADERSHIP PRACTICES IN MILITARY: A WAY FORWARD
Authors: Mahroof Jawad , Javaid Rabbia
Published: July 2024

Military leadership today deals with a plethora of information related to its on-field and offthe-field operations that are complex in nature and needs critical thinking which can affect the decision-making process. Information overload is a phenomenon that creates
uncertainty and ambiguity in decision-making. Losing direction is very likely in such situations as it could be an issue for the leadership to keep track of what needs to be contained and what needs to be discarded from the chunks of information received continuously. Building adaptive and agile leadership is imperative to technology adaption in the military as digital decision-making and a tech-savvy culture will be key attributes of the future. Adapting digital technologies will help fight and win wars in the digital era and military leadership must learn the digital leadership skills to win the fights driven by technology. With the future of warfare going digital, knowledge-based decision-making will be a valuable asset as these capabilities will become a necessity in times to come. Information control will play a pivotal role in digital leadership and digital leadership combined with the foresight and experience of the commanders can help tackle fifthgeneration warfare.
UNVEILING THE MARITIME OPPORTUNITIES: ANALYSING THE BLUE ECONOMY POTENTIAL WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF THE CHINA-PAKISTAN ECONOMIC CORRIDOR
Authors: Naz Salma , Rashid Muhammad Imran
Published: July 2024

Earth is called "the blue planet "because 70% surface consists of water. The ocean is vital to the world's economy approximately 3.5 billion people depend on the ocean for the sustenance of their lives and livelihoods. Having about 1,050 km long coastline and the Exclusive Economic Zone covering about 240,000 sq. km. Pakistan is a key maritime country in the Indian Ocean. Pakistan has immense potential in the blue economy the only possibility for Pakistan to sustain its deteriorating economy is to focus on the growth of its blue economy. In this connection, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) not only boosts the traditional economy of Pakistan but also can play a vital role in the growth of the blue economy. This study explores the potential of the blue economy for Pakistan from the perspective of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. The nature of the research is qualitative and the case study method is applied to the present study. Descriptive and exploratory approaches are applied to discover the answers to the research questions and analysis of this study will help to find out many possible findings of the Potential of the Blue economy of Pakistan in perspective of the CPEC.
The Use of Methane from Landfill Gas to Generate Energy and its Management at the Plant as a Way to Reduce Climate Change
Authors: Basta Emilia , Szewczyk Piotr
Published: July 2024

In the era of consumerism, increasing amounts of waste constitute an ecological and logistical problem. Waste landfills are increasingly installing degassing installations and obtaining landfill gas containing methane as a renewable energy source. The work aims to analyse the production and management of energy at a selected waste landfill operating a cogeneration unit. The role of landfill gas, its production amount, composition and use in cogeneration units to produce energy were analysed. The biogas produced is used to produce electricity and heat at the analysed waste treatment plant. The research showed the extraction and energy use of biogas in the amount of 916,876 m3 per year, which produced 1,558 MWh of electricity and 1,589 MWh of heat in cogeneration. The electricity produced is a power source for the enterprise and its infrastructure, and the surplus is sent to the power grid. However, 34% of the heat is used for the plant's needs. The remaining part can be used in ORC systems (Organic Rankine Cycle). The tests showed that the total efficiency of energy production is 85.80%, with the availability index of the cogeneration unit amounting to 0.95. The energetic use of landfill gas containing methane is an optimal solution from an energy and environmental perspective to limit climate change.
Optimizing Energy Efficiency and Environmental Sustainability in Gas Distribution Station: A Comprehensive Analysis and Technological Solutions
Authors: Misevičiūtė Violeta , Rogoža Artur , Tučkus Rapolas
Published: July 2024

It is important to address the world‘s energy crisis, increasing energy demand and changing climate by finding ways to recover unused energy and minimise primary and secondary energy use and emissions. The natural gas sector, which consists of the transmission network and gas distribution stations, is an important part of the global and Lithuanian energy sector. However, due to the operating principle of gas pressure regulators, the energy potential of high-pressure gas is not efficiently utilized in gas distribution stations. As a result, natural gas boilers are used for gas preheating, and gas distribution stations cause additional environmental pollution. This study aims to find ways to optimise the efficiency of gas distribution stations and reduce their negative environmental impact by identifying areas where energy is wasted and proposing alternative technological solutions: turbine expander (as an alternative for gas pressure regulator), ground heat pumps, solar collectors and photovoltaic solar cells (as gas preheating alternatives). The best alternative technological solution for the gas distribution station is evaluated based on energy efficiency, economic viability, and environmental impact (3E criteria).
The Role of Stakeholders in Enhancing the Public Service Agency's and Area Management's Performance Information Adequacy
Authors: Zunaidi Achmad , Sutiono  , Sudarso Budi , Santoso Kurniawan
Published: July 2024

In addition to understanding the process for PNBP BLU income targets in the context of various BLU characteristics, the study intends to assess the role of stakeholders in the formulation of the performance of Public Service Agencies (BLU) involved in area management. This study focuses on the role of agents and principals in BLU performance decision making, as well as addressing problems connected to the application of input cost standards (SBM) and operational cost details in budgeting, in an effort to improve the efficiency and quality of BLU services. The findings of this study have the potential to significantly enhance BLU management in the field of area management and raise the standard of community services. This kind of research is exploratory and qualitative, concentrating on how performance is defined in relation to the budget. The research data were gathered from two sources: 1) interviews with six stakeholders who represented principals and 23 resource persons who served as agents for four BLUs; and 2) planning-budgeting materials that served as guidelines for BLU policy (including its rules). The study was carried out in 2022, from March to September. Based on the involvement of stakeholders, the study's findings identified two traits of BLU organizations within regional management clusters: 1) BLU exclusively as Satker; 2) BLU as a ministry in addition to Satker. Performance information is more explicitly formulated by BLU stakeholders, ministries, and Satker than by BLU alone. The more important BLU must take into account when planning and budgeting, the less focused and obviously linked the BLU service performance of regional management clusters is in the planning and budgeting documents.
The Impact of Zoning Policy Implementation and the Education Production Function in Improving the Quality of Senior High School Education
Authors: Nurfakihiswara Iman , Yudhistira Muhammad Halley , Mauleny Ariesy Tri
Published: July 2024

This study aims to examine the inequality in the quality of education in 117 public high schools in DKI Jakarta, as well as the effect of implementing the PPDB zoning policy in improving the quality of school education. Utilizing a panel dataset of school units processed through quantitative analysis and Fixed-Effect (FE) econometric regression estimation, this study analyzes the Education Production Function. The research also investigates educational quality disparities based on Gini coefficients with the National Examination scores as indicators. The results of the study found that inequality between schools in DKI Jakarta was at a low level. Furthermore, it is found that the UN participant-to-teacher ratio, teacher education and experience, as well as the implementation of the zoning policy for student admission (PPDB), have an impact on improving school UN score achievements. In the future, school excellence will be distributed divergently.
Looking Back to Find a Way Forward
Authors: Roberts Carolyn
Published: July 2024

Looking back and learning from Indigenous knowledges in education holds the key to supporting change in educational spaces today to be more inclusive and wholistic. Indigenous practices, passed down from generation to generation, hold important knowledge that can be used in classroom teaching. My hope is that by using this Indigenous lens of education, a path for change will be created in the current colonial education system. In this paper, I examine how I view classroom teaching through my own Indigenous worldview and with the support of those Indigenous scholars that have been doing this work for many years before me. I highlight the ways in which Indigenous knowledge systems support education and learning in today’s classrooms.
Knowing Community through Story: It's Where We Come Together
Authors: Campbell Chudoba Roberta , Pelletier Terrance
Published: July 2024

As PhD students and sessional lecturers, we undertook a collaborative narrative study* to explore our pedagogical and curricular approaches to decolonizing a community development course offered in our College of Education. We gathered our conversations, reflective journals, and notes, then wove together the narratives thematically using a métissage research methodology. We discovered ways we come together in the spaces in-between our different experiences, backgrounds, and worldviews, as Indigenous and non-Indigenous educators, decolonizing our curriculum and our students’ classroom experience. This paper shares one of the thematic braids we created, focused on the use of story for research, story as pedagogy and story for building relationships. We encourage educators to consider bridging their worldviews with other ways of seeing and knowing, to work toward decolonizing their teaching practices using story, and to form relationships across differences using story.
Not So “Mainstream”: The Need for Models of Indigenous Mentorship
Authors: Atay Elaine , Murry Adam
Published: July 2024

Improving post-secondary outcomes and retention of Indigenous students may require interventions such as culturally appropriate mentorship. “Mainstream” mentorship perspectives and practices developed within places of Western education and employment may be limited in their ability to address the unique cultural considerations and experiences encountered by Indigenous peoples. Providing Indigenous and non-Indigenous mentors with a model of Indigenous mentorship may improve their ability to engage in culturally appropriate practices. In this paper, we review the literature on mainstream perspectives and practices of mentorship, their limitations when it comes to mentoring Indigenous peoples, and present our arguments for the need for mentorship models that address the unique needs of Indigenous peoples.
Shaping Inclusive Learning: A Comparative Study Of UDL Engagement Pre- And Post-Pandemic In One Ontario College
Authors: Kennette Lynne N. , Chapman Morgan
Published: July 2024

The universal design for learning framework aims to remove barriers from the learning environment so that as many students as possible can fully participate in it. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about additional challenges in higher education, but in many cases, it has also provided a unique opportunity to examine change. This study investigated students’ and faculty’s perceptions of how frequently various elements of universal design for learning were used in the classroom as well as how useful these elements were perceived to be for student learning. Different groups of students and faculty responded to an online survey pre-pandemic and then again approximately one year into the pandemic. The findings indicated consistently robust correlations between the pre-pandemic and pandemic periods. However, the pandemic initiated certain shifts, notably an uptick in faculty incorporating specific UDL elements, such as recording lectures. Additionally, students perceive a greater number of UDL elements as advantageous for their learning compared to the faculty perspective.
Exploring COVID-19’s Impact On Undergraduate Nursing Students
Authors: Martens Riley , Hou Mary , Isherwood Susan , Cuthber Colleen
Published: July 2024

The researchers aimed to assess the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on nursing education through semi-structured interviews with undergraduate nursing students. The researchers explored themes related to online education, clinical placements, and mental health. Findings revealed that the sudden shift to online learning caused increased stress, and decreased confidence. Clinical placements were affected, leading to missed time and altered learning experiences. Mental health suffered as students faced stressors and challenges brought on by the pandemic. These interviews elucidate the challenges faced by nursing students during the COVID-19 pandemic and provide valuable information for future planning in nursing education during crises.
Teaching Indigenous Content In An Online Environment: An Interview With Two Anishinaabe Instructors
Authors: Vaillancourt Anita , Ray Lana , Baxter Denise
Published: July 2024

Two Anishinaabe post-secondary educators are interviewed about their experience teaching Indigenous content in an online environment for an institution located on Anishinaabe territory. Specifically, they discuss key components of their institution’s Indigenous content requirement policy framework regarding content and delivery and discuss insights, uncertainties, and lessons learned to stimulate critical thought rather than provide a prescribed structure or task list for success.
Cuidados paliativos em neonatologia
Authors: Molgora Almiron Flávia Aline , Lima Miguel Lorenzi Keila Maria
Published: July 2024

Segundo a Organização Mundial de Saúde (2018), o termo cuidados paliativos significa: “prevenção e alívio do sofrimento de pacientes adultos e pediátricos e de suas famílias que enfrentam problemas associados a doenças potencialmente fatais, incluindo sofrimento físico, psicológico, social e espiritual”. Em Neonatologia, há falta de protocolos sobre o tema. Assim, neste trabalho, realizou-se uma revisão narrativa da literatura médica acerca dos critérios de elegibilidade para cuidados paliativos neonatais com base em banco de dados da Sociedade Brasileira de Pediatria, UpToDate, Scielo e Pubmed. O objetivo dessa revisão é demonstrar a necessidade de elaboração de protocolos e de critérios de elegibilidade bem definidos para garantir a implementação dos cuidados paliativos nas unidades neonatais. Através da revisão desses critérios, junto à equipe multidisciplinar, a unidade neonatal poderá capacitar os profissionais de saúde para instituir cuidados paliativos com qualidade, preservando a dignidade humana.
Multidimensional Position And Displacement Estimation Using Periodic Coded Optical Apertures In A Single Camera Imaging System
Authors: Steinmetz Tino , Otto Jonas , Pommerenke Hermann Winrich , Ebert Eric , Kleinwächter André , Damaschke Nils
Published: July 2024

Accurately estimating multidimensional positions and displacements in fluid dynamic experiments is essential for understanding complex flow phenomena. This paper presents a novel optical measurement setup capable of determining velocity fields using periodic coded optical apertures in a single-camera imaging system. Our method involves placing a periodic transmission grating in front of the optical system and aligning a laser beam along the system’s optical axis. When particles intersect the laser beam, they scatter light, producing out-of-focus images on the imaging sensor resembling the periodic grating. The size and position of these images vary with the distance to the imaging system and the offset from the optical axis, allowing for accurate determination of particle positions. We derive mathematical formulas describing the imaging system and the relationship between image properties and particle positions and verify them through simulations. Additionally, we develop a calibration method enabling arbitrary optical imaging systems to be used with this technique. Finally, we demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach by measuring velocity fields near a ducted ship propeller, a practical application that underscores the real-world impact of our research in fluid dynamics.
Characterization of 3D oxygen concentrations in microfluidic systems combining astigmatic particle tracking with phosphorescence decay measurements
Authors: Werner Till , Schmidt Mareike , Etzold Bastian J. M. , Fritschen Anna , Blaeser Andreas , Hussong Jeanette
Published: July 2024

In this work, we combine astigmatic particle tracking with phosphorescence decay measurements to determine 3D-resolved oxygen concentration in microfluidic systems. In our experiments we achieve uncertainties in the out-of-plane position of less than 1 µm and uncertainties in oxygen concentration of less than 2 ppm. The calibrated measurement range covers oxygen concentrations of 0.6 ppm to 27.6 ppm. A method is presented to correct for measurement errors caused by photobleaching. For this, the excitation energy, the cumulative exposure time and the spatially varying intensity profile of the laser are taken into account in the correction. With this method, low measurement errors of less than 2ppm at ambient oxygen levels can be achieved even after thousands of excitation cycles. Hence, 3D oxygen concentrations are measured in an agarose hydrogel filled microfluidic chamber across which different pressure and oxygen gradients can be set independently. The results show that oxygen diffusion is superposed by an interstitial flow, which significantly alters the resulting oxygen concentration.
Kármán Street-Boundary Layer Interactions In Turbulent Flow
Authors: Ribeiro Raphael , Longmire Ellen , Green Melissa A
Published: July 2024

Understanding the intricate interplay between turbulent boundary layers and wake structures caused by obstacles in the flow is key to assessing the local shear stress fields as well as the drag. These types of flows can be relevant to natural phenomena including sediment and nutrient transport. While existing literature predominantly explores the flow downstream of cylinders mounted perpendicular to bounding surfaces or downstream of cylinders positioned outside the boundary layer region, this work experimentally studies the turbulent boundary layer passing over a cylindrical obstacle positioned near and parallel to the surface of an underlying solid wall. Planar particle image velocimetry (PIV) was performed in an open recirculating water channel for three test cases at a friction Reynolds number Reτ = 1320. Key parameters investigated include the cylinder diameter relative to the boundary layer thickness (D/δ = 0.09 and 0.01) and the gap between the cylinder and the wall (G/δ = 0.09), where the range of D/δ used is smaller than most examples found in the literature. Instantaneous and averaged velocity and vorticity fields are examined based on the PIV measurements. The results in Fig. 1 show how von Kármán vortex streets and turbulent boundary layer structures interact to form unique flow features. The larger cylinder generates a clear separation downstream of its axis as well as a wake that remains coherent over a distance δ downstream. The smaller cylinder with D/δ = 0.01 generates a much narrower and weaker wake, but still shows a clear influence on time-averaged velocity profile. Future experiments will evaluate flow conditions further downstream as well as additional values of G/δ for the same D/δ values.
Wing-to-Wall Distance Effect On The Large-Scale Turbulent Structures Interacting With A Wall
Authors: Taibi Taha , Fiabane Lionel , Nesen Grégory , Fabbro Laetitia Del , Heitz Dominique
Published: July 2024

We experimentally investigate the effect of the wing-to-wall distance, also called ground clearance, on the three-dimensional flow generated by a wing at a 4° angle of attack and a chord Reynolds number of 1400. We perform 3D velocity measurements using Particle tracking velocimetry to characterize the wake downstream of the wing, evaluate the evolution of the intensity and the size of the wingtip and secondary counter-rotating vortices, and finally compute the aerodynamic coefficients using momentum balance equations. We extended the control volume method for drag and lift calculation to the case where the transverse plane downstream of the wing does not contain the whole wake. The secondary flow's vorticity isocontours and velocity vectors show a decrease in the downwash and vortex size with the ground clearance ratio (i.e., as we approach the ground). The computation of the circulation shows that this latter decays rapidly streamwise as we get closer to the wall, indicating a dissipation of the kinetic energy contained in the trailing vortices. The aerodynamic coefficients' results based on the control volume method show that the tested wing manifests a two-force regime evolution of the drag coefficient with the ground clearance ratio, as it first decreases when moving far from the ground before increasing as we move farther from the ground. A noteworthy high lift is generated when too close to the ground. Further application of the extended control volume method on DNS data is needed to validate the method.
Rainbow Imaging Of 3-D Microbubble Distribution Clustered Inside A Turbulent Boundary Layer
Authors: Murai Yuichi , Saitoh Daichi , Park Hyun Jin , Tasaka Yuji
Published: July 2024

Microbubbles dispersed in a turbulent boundary layer spatially developing along a flat plate is investigated experimentally. The aim of study is to find out visually how microbubbles interact with turbulent eddies to achieve frictional drag reduction on a wall. For stream Reynolds number up to 3×104 , microbubble suspended at Stokes number smaller than 10 − 3 is measured. Stream-wise vortices in the boundary layer were visualized by flake optics, of which spacing expands with injection of microbubbles. 3-D microbubble distributions were measured by a color-coded volumetric illumination applied to the boundary layer. The result showed preferentially accumulated microbubble clouds to low-speed streaks close to viscous sublayer and to hair-pin vortices in the buffer layer.
Deep Learning for Early Detection of Diabetic Retinopathy: A Colour Fundus Image-based Approach with VGG16 and VGG19
Authors: Ratnakar Anand ,   M.Tech Robotics And Artificial Intelligence, Dept. of Manufacturing Engineering and Industrial Management,  COEP Technological University Pune, India.
Published: July 2024

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a prevalent complication of diabetes, posing a significant threat to vision. Early detection and intervention are critical to prevent vision loss. However, manual screening of retinal images for DR is time-consuming and susceptible to human error. This study investigates the application of deep learning models, specifically VGG16 and VGG19, for automated DR diagnosis in Colour Fundus images. We evaluate their performance in classifying images as either Diabetic Retinopathy or No Diabetic Retinopathy. Our results demonstrate high testing accuracy with VGG16 achieving 93.96%, suggesting a promising approach for automated DR screening and aiding healthcare professionals in early and accurate diagnosis. Keywords : Convolutional Neural Network, Diabetic Retinopathy, Visual Geometry Group 16 (VGG16), Visual Geometry Group 19 (VGG19), Transfer Learning, Deep Learning.
COMPARATIVE STUDY OF FLAT SLAB DESIGN USING VARIOUS INTERNATIONAL CODES
Authors: DHEKLE MR. RAVIKIRAN RAMCHANDRA , BHOSALE PROF. K.S , TANAWADE PROF. S.B
Published: July 2024

The structural function of beamless floor system is to collect the gravity load and other load such as wind load etc. and to transfer to the vertical structural elements i.e. column through the combined capacity in flexure and shear. In Flat slab, the slab is directly supported on the columns. Moments and shear values are usually the largest over the columns. However, when spans are relatively small and imposed load is low, the thickness of slab can be increased to reduce the stresses at slab-column joint which would result in providing greater effective depth for negative moments occurring near the column. With increasing span and live load intensity, the thickness requirement increases which does not give economical solution. So, to tackle this problem flaring of the column at top is done such that the plan geometry at the column head is similar to that of the column. The column capital is intended primarily to increase the capacity of the slab to resist punching shear. The column capital stiffens the slab, which help in controlling the floor deflection. Thus, the floor span can be increased to some extent. Beyond a certain range of span, further stiffening of the slab is required which is achieved by increasing the slab thickness of the slab panel around the column capital. This portion of the slab is known as drop panel. For flat slabs and flat plates supported directly by columns, shear may be the critical factor in design. In almost all tests of such structures, failures have been due to shear or perhaps shear and torsion. These conditions are particularly serious around the exterior columns. In the present study, attempt has been made to understand different methods of analysis of flat slab and parameters, which governs the design parameters of the flat slab. Attempts have been made to study the provisions of flat slab in well-known international standards such as ACI 318, EC-2 and IS 456:2000. Keywords: Flat slab, drop panel, Column head, IS 456:2000, ACI 318, EC-2
UNDERSTANDING YOLO: REAL-TIME OBJECT DETECTION EXPLAINED
Authors: Rajasekhar Mr. Jaisurya
Published: July 2024

YOLO (You Only Look Once) is a groundbreaking real-time object detection algorithm known for its speed and accuracy. This article provides an in-depth exploration of YOLO, from its innovative architecture to its practical applications. We discuss its grid-based approach, prediction of bounding boxes and class probabilities, and the use of Non-Max Suppression to refine detections. Additionally, we cover the training process, advantages, and future developments of YOLO, highlighting its significant impact on fields such as autonomous driving, surveillance, and healthcare. Keywords: YOLO, real-time object detection, algorithm, bounding boxes, Non-Max Suppression.
The Influence of Leadership Style and Compensation on Employee Performance
Authors: Tri Kurniawan  , Supartini  , Novelia Asita Mranani
Published: July 2024

Good human resources will drive the company to progress and develop. Human resources are the main factor affecting company performance. Companies with superior human resources will be able to properly organize every activity within the company, employees will be able to work optimally and the results achieved will be in accordance with predetermined standards. The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of leadership style and compensation simultaneously and partially on the performance of employees at Tanjung Kodok Lamongan Beach Resort Hotel. The sample of this research is the employees of Hotel Beach Resort Tanjung Kodok Lamongan, with a total sample of 50 respondents. The analysis technique uses Multiple Linear Regression with the SPSS program or software. The results showed that simultaneously (simultaneous) showed that leadership style and compensation had an effect on employee performance, partially leadership style had a positive and significant influence on employee performance, and compensation had a positive and significant effect on employee performance.
Influence of Motivation, HR Development and Management Support for Work Productivity at the Lebak Regency Transportation Service
Authors: Indah Lestari  , Siti Iin Inayah  , Muhi Mukti
Published: July 2024

The aim of this research is to analyze the influence of Motivation, HR Development and Management Support both partially and simultaneously on Work Productivity at the Lebak Regency Transportation Service. This type of research uses quantitative methods with survey research. The population of this research is 154 employees at the Department of Transportation (DISHUB) Lebak Regency, Rangkasbitung, Banten. The sampling technique used was a random sampling technique using the Slovin formula, namely 61 research samples used in this research. Data analysis techniques using multiple linear regression were processed using the SPSS V.20 analysis tool. It was concluded in this research that motivation, human resource development, and management support partially or simultaneously had a positive and significant effect on the work productivity of Lebak Regency Transportation Service Employees, this shows that motivation plays a role in supporting work productivity
The Effect of Employee Absenteeism and Turnover on Innovation and Organizational Performance
Authors: Devy Senza Maulina  , Wawan Prahiawan  , Liza Mumtazah
Published: July 2024

This research was conducted to determine the influence of employee absenteeism and turnover on innovation and organizational performance. The variables used in this research are employee absenteeism and turnover, where how much influence these two variables have on the success of innovation and organizational performance. The data collection method uses literature study which is then searched for research gaps from several articles/journals in this research. The research results show that employee absenteeism and turnover have a negative and significant effect on innovation and organizational performance. The higher the level of employee absenteeism, the more difficult it will be for the employee to contribute to organizational performance. This means that the higher the level of absenteeism, the lower the innovation and organizational performance. High employee turnover can also affect organizational performance and innovation. Frequent loss of competent employees can hamper innovation and organizational performance. This means that the higher the employee turnover rate, the lower the innovation and organizational performance. To improve organizational performance, innovation is very important. If a company has an environment that supports innovation, its employees can become more innovative and creative. This means that innovation has a significant positive effect on organizational performance.
HIGH-QUALITY CASSAVA PEEL MEAL FOR GROWING PIGS: IMPLICATIONS ON CARCASS, MEAT QUALITY, ORGAN WEIGHTS, HEPATIC AND JEJUNUM HISTOLOGY
Authors: OJEDIRAN Taiwo K. , Olayeni Tunji B. , Azeez Sheriff A. , Amolegbe Franka D. , Emiola Isiak A.
Published: July 2024

The global increase in the production and processing of cassava tubers generates a lot of peel as waste. However, the effect of processing methods to increase the quality of the peel as an animal feed resource must look at the quality of the resultant food products. These effects are insufficiently studied. The study aimed to assess the impact of the processed peel on carcass quality, meat quality, organ weight and organ histology of growing pigs. Thirty (30) male growing pigs (Landrace × Large white) were randomly distributed to five groups with six (6) animals per group in a completely randomized design. Maize was substituted with high quality cassava peel meal (HQCPM) at 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% for the experimental diets ranging from diets V to Z. The pigs fed HQCPM diets had higher carcass weights, resulting in an improved carcass yield. The colour, flavour, tenderness, juiciness, texture, and overall acceptability were statistically superior in the pigs fed diet Z. High feed fibre influenced organ weights: the HQCPM diets reduced (P<0.05) the organ weights. More so, the HQCPM diets affected (P<0.05) the histology of the liver and intestine with varying degrees of inflammation, shortened villi length, and reduced surface area. HQCPM diets enhanced the carcass weight and meat quality of growing pigs up to 100% replacement for maize. Nevertheless, the diets reduced organ weights and villi lengths, leading to reduced absorptive function.
THE EFFECT OF BARRIER TECHNOLOGIES ON THE CHEMICAL, NUTRITIONAL, SENSORY, AND MICROBIOLOGICAL QUALITY OF ARBUTUS UNEDO L. FRUITS DURING STORAGE
Authors: EL MEJHED Badreddine , KZAIBER Fouzia , Oussama Abdelkhalek , TEROUZI Wafa
Published: July 2024

Arbutus unedo L. is a widespread tree known for its nutritional and antioxidant importance. However, the utilization of its berries remains limited due to their sensitivity and damage during storage. This study aims to evaluate the effect of barrier technologies with the addition of lemon juice (Citrus limon) and bitter orange juice (Citrus aurantium) as additives on the sensory, nutritional, and microbiological quality of fruits during storage. The combined fruits exhibited a significant decrease in pH (from 5.07±0.23 to 3.45±0.34 for fruits combined with bitter orange juice and from 5.07±0.23 to 3.64±0.12 for fruits combined with lemon juice), moisture content (from 62.48±2.32 to 45.47±3.54 for fruits combined with bitter orange juice and from 62.48±2.32 to 51.4±3.12 for fruits combined with lemon juice), and showed inactivation of aerobic mesophilic bacteria compared to non-treated fruits. Differential thermogravimetric analysis (DTG, DSC) demonstrated that fruits conditioned in the presence of bitter orange juice preserved their nutritional quality (vitamins B2, B6, B9, B12, and C) under light and oxygen exposure. The combination of acidity and sweetness improved the sensory quality of the combined fruits during storage.
PLANT-GROWTH-PROMOTING AND ANTIFUNGAL ASSET OF INDIGENOUS DROUGHT-TOLERANT RHIZOBACTERIA ISOLATED FROM OLIVE (Olea europaea L.) RHIZOSPHERE
Authors: Ajdig Mohammed , Chouati Taha , Rached Bahia , Mbarki Ahlam , Ouchari Lahcen , Filali-Maltouf Abdelkarim , Talbi Chouhra , El Fahime Elmostafa , Melloul Marouane
Published: July 2024

Faced with global environmental challenges, the quest for sustainable food production has gathered momentum. While abiotic stresses adversely affect plant health and productivity, Verticillium wilt causes considerable yield losses worldwide, particularly in crops such as olive. Recently, drought-tolerant bacteria have been used to alleviate both abiotic stress and pathogen pressure in crops. In this context, our work focuses on the isolation of tolerant indigenous rhizobacteria to mitigate these challenges by investigating their role in biocontrol and abiotic stress tolerance. Thus, a total of 94 rhizobacterial strains were isolated from the rhizospheres of olive trees in southeastern Morocco and characterized to identify tolerant plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria that inhibit Verticillium dahliae. 24 strains demonstrated in vitro suppression of Verticillium dahliae Klebahn, and exhibited tolerance to different abiotic stresses (drought, salinity, and high temperature). In addition, they proved xerotolerant (Aw ≤ 0.91), halotolerant (≥10% NaCl), and thermotolerant (≥ 55°C) capabilities. Beyond, these isolates showcased multifaceted plant growth-promoting traits, such as phosphate solubilization and significant synthesis of essential bioactive compounds like siderophores, indole-3-acetic acid and hydrolytic enzymes. Evaluating outcomes, three standout rhizobacterial isolates emerged due to their exceptional stress tolerance, unique plant growth-promoting qualities, and potent antagonistic potential. Molecular analysis identified them as Bacillus paranthracis (OZ-60) and Bacillus licheniformis (OZ-48 and OZ-77) through 16S rRNA sequencing. Besides enhancing plant abiotic stress resistance, these isolates hold promise in bolstering the sustainability of olive cultivation and fortifying plant defenses against pathogens.
INCREASING THE STABILITY OF POLYPHENOLS AND BETACYANINS IN BEETROOT CHIPS BY TREATMENT BEFORE DRYING
Authors: Mendelova Andrea , Mendel Ľubomír , Solgajová Miriam , Kolesárová Anna , Mareček Ján
Published: July 2024

An innovative trend in the production of snack products is the use of selected vegetables for the production of dried vegetable chips. Beetroot is a suitable vegetable for this type of product, as it is characterised by its high biological potential and its content of a wide range of phytonutrients with beneficial effects on human health. The aim of this work was to compare five varieties of beetroot in terms of the content of total polyphenols and betacyanins, to assess the effect of hot-air drying on these important components and to determine the appropriate method of treatment of beetroot slices before drying in terms of improving the stability of polyphenols and betacyanins during drying. In this work, 5 beetroot varieties (Betina, Renova, Cervena kulata, Pablo F1, Karkulka) were evaluated. The beetroot chips were dried at 70°C until a residual moisture content of 15±1% was reached. To treat the slices before drying a 0.1% solution of ascorbic acid, 0.01% solution of CaCl2, 0.01% solution of K2S2O5, 1% solution of NaCl was used followed by blanching in a water bath at 96°C for 2 minutes. The highest content of total polyphenols and beta-cyanins was statistically significant (p<0.05) in the variety Pablo F1. During hot air drying, both polyphenols and betacyanins decreased significantly. The average decrease in betacyanins and total polyphenols was 50.97% and 48.70% respectively. To mitigate these changes, treatment with 0.1% solution of ascorbic acid and blanching appeared to be the most effective of the treatments tested. After treatment with ascorbic acid solution, the dried products retained on average 27.6%  more betacyanins and 32.67% more total polyphenols than the control sample.
EVALUATION OF BACILLUS CEREUS GROWTH IN COOKED RICE
Authors: Bursová Šárka , Haruštiaková Danka , Necidová Lenka , Krobotová Eliška , Mlejnková Zuzana , Tkáč Matej , Stojanová Kateřina , Golian Jozef
Published: July 2024

The present study aimed to evaluate the dependence of growth dynamics of toxigenic B. cereus on rice type, inoculum type, storage time, and temperature using appropriate mathematical models. Samples of cooked white (milled) and brown (husked) rice inoculated with vegetative cell/spore suspension of B. cereus were stored for 48 h at 4 °C (correct storage) and 24 °C (inappropriate storage method). No growth of B. cereus was observed during 48 hours of storage at 4 °C and was characterised by a linear model. To assess the growth of B. cereus in the cooked rice stored at 24 °C, the Baranyi-Roberts, Gompertz and Buchanan mathematical models were used. The Gompertz model characterized the growth of B. cereus best. The type of rice and the type of inoculum did not have a significant effect on the bacterial growth. After 48 h of storage at 24°C, the B. cereus counts were in the range of 8-9 log cfu.g-1, critical value of 5 log cfu.g-1 was reached in less than 10 hours of storage. The study results indicate that cooked rice stored at 24 °C quickly becomes a health risk for consumers due to the rapid multiplication of B. cereus within a few hours. In conclusion, it is crucial to cool cooked rice immediately to 4 °C if it is not to be consumed right after cooking.
SYNERGISTIC EFFECTS OF NEEM OIL AND GENTAMICIN ON PSEUDOMONAS AERUGINOSA VIA PHZM GENE DOWNREGULATION: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW
Authors: Emad Mais , Alhammer Ali H. , Mohammed Rasha K. , Lafta Fadhel M.
Published: July 2024

Exploring the antibacterial potential of neem oil (Azadirachta indica) in combination with gentamicin (GEN) against pathogenic molds, especially Pseudomonas aeruginosa, has drawn concern due to the quest for natural treatment options against incurable diseases. Prospective research directions include looking for natural cures for many of the currently incurable diseases available now.
microbial identification system, were used to identify the isolates. The research utilized a range of methods, such as the diffusion agar well (AWD) assays, TEM (transmission electron microscopy) analysis, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays, and real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) to analyze bacterial expression and the antibacterial action of neem oil (Azadirachta indica) combined with gentamicin (GEN) against the pathogenic bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa between others.
The combined effects of neem oil and GEN on P. aeruginosa are extensively investigated in this study, with particular attention paid to the downregulation of the virulent factor gene phzM, inhibition of biofilm formation, morphological changes, and gene expression, in that proportion. Results show that neem oil has strong antibacterial activity against P. aeruginosa and S. aureus, preventing the formation of biofilms and causing morphological alterations. In addition, the synergistic effects of neem oil and GEN are demonstrated, together in order with the downregulation of the phzM gene in P. aeruginosa. These results highlight the increased effectiveness of neem oil when combined with GEN and point to the potential of the oil as a stand-alone antibacterial agent. They also highlight the need for more study to overcome antibiotic resistance in harmful bacteria. Overall, our results point to a possibility that neem oil extract, either alone or in combination with GEN, can suppress the development of pathogenic microbes. This synergistic impact is related to the downregulation of a virulence factor gene. To address the drug resistance linked to pathogenic microbes, greater study is required. Novelty of study addresses the important issue of antibiotic resistance by exploring the potential synergistic effects of neem oil and gentamicin on pathogenic bacteria, particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This topic is highly relevant in the context of the global challenge of antimicrobial resistance.Novelty and relevanc the important issue of antibiotic resistance by exploring the potential synergistic effects of neem oil and gentamicin on pathogenic bacteria, particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This topic is highly relevant in the context of the global challenge of antimicrobial resistance.
DECIPHERING THE OILSEED BACTERIAL ENDOPHYTES AND STUDY OF THEIR ROLE AND TRIPARTITE INTERACTIONS WITH PLANTS AND PATHOGEN
Authors: Sinha Tamali , Talukdar Narayan Chandra
Published: July 2024

Endophytes colonize interior regions of oilseeds depending on water, nutrient, space availability and microbial competition. Oilseeds are filled with oil globules making it difficult for microbes to obtain direct uptake of water and nutrient for growing into colonies. Recent research shows very less areas explored in endophytic study in oilseeds and as endophytes play a vital part in managing diseases in plants by releasing genes encoding jasmonate and salicylic acid which induces defense against pathogens and modify plant regions structurally adding to their fitness and increased productivity, their study is indispensable. This review focuses on the bacterial endophytes in oilseeds, the challenges faced in their isolation, their colonization and interactions with host and pathogens and their applications. Oilseed endophytic study is essential for understanding the benefits of oilseeds consumed as vegetable oil or used as fuel by people all over the world.
Talk Less and Yarn More: Seeking Student Voice to Explore Effective Pedagogy in a Christian Environment
Authors: Brown Daniela
Published: July 2024

This research explores how students within a Christian school experience pedagogy and how they perceive this experience to influence them, in terms of empowerment or disempowerment.
Designing a Supervision Training Program with Research Supervisor's Voices
Authors: Kilgour Peter , Northcote Maria , Lounsbury Lynnette
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this study was to design a series of workshop events for new or novice supervisors of higher degree by research candidates using input from the novice supervisors, experienced supervisors and a panel of experts. A mixed methodology was adopted where the novice and experienced supervisors completed a Likert-style questionnaire and participated in semi-structured focus groups and interviews. Data from experts was collected from a hosted panel. The novice supervisors were most concerned about managing the supervision process and dealing with candidate issues, giving feedback, working with different methodologies they may not be familiar with, and supervising in areas outside their field of expertise. The experienced supervisors added that the workshops should include advice about relationships and the wellbeing of candidates. The outcomes of the study were pragmatic because they fed into the content of the workshops, thereby training novice supervisors with aspects of supervision they felt they needed, along with aspects recommended by experienced supervisors. This study suggests that, when institutions are designing training events for higher degree by research supervisors, key stakeholders, including the potential learners (novice supervisors), should be systematically consulted. This form of teaching in a Christian institution includes all the basics of recognised good supervision but adds the elements of Christian care and support.
The Important Role Of Artificial Intelligence Technology Regulation In Protecting The Public Interest
Authors: Alfiani Francisca Romana Nanik
Published: July 2024

Artificial intelligence provides both good and bad. For this reason, artificial intelligence must be regulated to protect the public interest. The results of the study show that regulating artificial intelligence is not easy, very complicated, there are many challenges, moreover the development of artificial intelligence technology is very rapid while the law is slow to anticipate it. In 2022, globally there have been 37 regulations regulating artificial intelligence. From the results of the comparison of various best practices and regulations of other countries that are at the forefront in the field of artificial intelligence, such as the European Union, China, and the United States framework approach, it can be an input for the development of artificial intelligence regulations in Indonesia that ensure the responsible use of artificial intelligence, respect human values, and do not hinder the creation of an artificial intelligence development ecosystem.
The Study of the English Preparation Course to Enhance Students’ English Proficiency for the Standardized Test “Your Score is High; my Score is Low. How to Make it Higher?”
Authors: Chaengjaroen Silawuth
Published: July 2024

“Your score is high; my score is low. How can I make it higher?” The author heard this in students’ conversations after they received their pre-test scores in the TOEIC training course. This is the major reason the author decided to conduct this study. Using the TOEIC score as part of the graduation requirements, the university designed and provided an English preparation course, namely EG1001: English for Proficiency Preparation, for students before taking the test. This small-scale research aims to investigate the effectiveness of the test preparation course in enhancing students’ English language proficiency and to explore which specific skills non-English major students need to improve for the TOEIC test. The study used pre-and post-tests to collect the language proficiency outputs of 57 higher education students in this course. Additionally, the study used their mini-test scores from each unit of the learning material to track their progress. The findings revealed that the post-test mean score (48.96) was higher than the pre-test mean score (40.58), indicating that after participating in this course, the participants improved their English proficiency. The results also suggested that students needed to practice more on the listening part of the TOEIC test.