bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Penentuan kondisi optimum pembuatan silica gel menggunakan silika geothermal dengan metode sol-gel
Authors: Sujoto Vincent Sutresno Hadi , Tangkas I Wayan Christ Widhi Herman , Astuti Widi , Sumardi Slamet , Jenie Siti Nurul Aisyiyah , Tampubolon Aron Pangihutan Christian , Syamsumin Syamsumin , Utama Andhika Putera , Petrus Himawan Tri Bayu Murti , Kusumastuti Yuni
Published: January 2024

Salah satu permasalahan yang muncul di lapangan pembangkit listrik panas bumi (PLTP) adalah terjadinya silica scaling dalam sistem pemipaaan akibat konsentrasi padatan terlarut yang tinggi pada air geotermal (geothermal brine). Silica scalling dapat menyebabkan penurunan efisiensi pembangkitan energi listrik dari panas bumi. Pada penelitian ini lumpur silika yang dihasilkan dari lapangan pembangkit listrik panas bumi akan dimanfaatkan sebagai raw material sintesis silica gel. Silica gel disintesis menggunakan metode sol-gel dengan variasi rasio natrium silikat dan air (1:3 ; 1:4 ; dan 1:5) dan konsentrasi asam klorida ( 0,5 M ; 1 M; dan 2 M). Karakteristik silica gel dilihat menggunakan analisis Forier Transform Infra Red (FTIR). Secara umum, pita serapan yang muncul pada spektra sample silica gel menunjukkan bahwa gugus fungsional yang terdapat pada silica gel adalah gugus silanol (Si-OH) dan gugus siloksan (Si-O-Si). Panjang gelombang 1055,86 cm-1­ menunjukkan gugus Si-O, yang mengindikasikan adanya vibrasi SiO4 dan polimerisasi Si-O-Si saat pembentukan silica gel. Selain itu, kapasitas penjerapan air oleh silika gel menunjukkan bahwa sampel dengan kode A7 memiliki kapasitas penjerapan air terbesar, yaitu mencapai 0,9331 gr air/ gram silica gel. Analisis Response Surface Methodology (RSM) mengindikasikan bahwa konsentrasi asam memberikan pengaruh singnifikan terhadap pembentukan silica gel dibandingkan dengan variasi pengenceran natrium silikat.
Pengendapan nikel sulfat hasil pelindian bijih nikel laterit (limonit) menggunakan metode Solvent Displacement Crystallization (SDC)
Authors: Septiawan Muhammad Ridwan , Justiadi Justiadi , Sari Dewi Purnama , Nugroho Vincentius Sulistyoaji , Rianto Muhammad Ikbal
Published: January 2024

Penggunaan nikel sulfat sebagai bahan baku baterai litium akan meningkatkan permintaan nikel di masa depan. Peningkatan permintaan tersebut akan diikuti oleh peningkatan permintaan bijih nikel yang saat ini banyak berasal dari bijih nikel laterit. Khususnya, permintaan bijih nikel laterit kadar rendah (limonit, Ni ≤ 1,5%) yang saat ini belum banyak diolah. Berdasarkan hal tersebut, pada penelitian ini akan dilakukan pengolahan bijih nikel laterit kadar rendah (limonit) secara hidrometalurgi untuk memperoleh padatan nikel sulfat melalui proses pelindian menggunakan asam sulfat dan pengendapan menggunakan metode Solvent Displacement Crystallization (SDC). Tahapan pada penelitian ini meliputi preparasi, pelindian, pengendapan dan karakterisasi. Sampel bijih hasil preparasi dilarutkan dengan menggunakan asam sulfat pada proses pelindian dan dinetralisasi menggunakan CaCO3 untuk memperoleh larutan nikel sulfat yang kemudian diendapkan pada proses pengendapan menggunakan metode SDC. Endapan nikel sulfat selanjutnya dipisahkan dari larutan untuk dikarakterisasi menggunakan XRD, XRF, AAS dan SEM. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa perbandingan organik air (OA) 1,6:1; pH 2, waktu pengadukan 3 jam dan temperatur 20oC adalah parameter terbaik dengan persen pengendapan nikel yang diperoleh adalah 98,3%.
Carbon composite of NiO hydrothermal impregnation from sugarcane bagasse and its electrochemical properties
Authors: Nasti Al Nadine De , Siburian Kyfti Yolanda , Sembiring Abraham Danofan , Kristianto Hans , Susanti Ratna Frida , Oktaviano Haryo Satriya , Nugroho Agung
Published: January 2024

Sugarcane bagasse (SB) can synthesize activated carbon (AC) through a two-step calcination process at calcination at 400oC and activation at 800oC. NaOH 0.1 M is used to activate the pre-carbonized sample in the activation step. The AC samples undergo hydrothermal impregnation with nickel oxide (NiO) at 110°C. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern and Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) confirmed the presence of NiO after this process. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) indicates the presence of pore structures in the sample morphology. A three-electrode system with 1 M Na2SO4 as an electrolyte was employed to assess the electrochemical properties. The specific capacitance for activated carbon derived from SB stands at 89.53 F/g at 0.05 A/g current density, while after impregnation with NiO, it increases to 250.53 F/g at the same current density. The results demonstrate the possibility of activated carbon from sugarcane bagasse waste composited with NiO as supercapacitor electrodes.
Intelligent English Teaching Based on the Pedagogy of Performing Another Culture and ChatGPT Technology
Authors: Li Yuhang
Published: January 2024

In the background of digital education, the intelligent capabilities of ChatGPT-based technology in teaching have emerged as a powerful tool for facilitating teachers’ preparation for lesson, improving students’ learning motivation and effectiveness, and promoting the development of intelligent curriculum. This study put forward a novel model of ChatGPT-based English teaching grounded in the “Pedagogy of Performing Another Culture” proposed by Galal Walker. From the three aspects of teaching design, application scenarios, and learning effect evaluation, this model explores the application of ChatGPT in the four fundamental language domains of listening, speaking, reading, and writing, with the objective of enhancing students’ language proficiency and cultural sensitivity, while also fostering their digital learning capabilities. To uphold academic integrity and ethical use of ChatGPT in English teaching, a C++-based ChatGPT application has been designed and tailored to the specific needs of English language learners. The school-based intelligent courses based on ChatGPT are available for students to carry out more diverse and effective English learning, promoting the rational use of ChatGPT in learning.
FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF CIPROFLOXACIN MICROSPHERES DESIGNED BY USING NATURAL POLYMERS BY IONIC GELATION TECHNIQUE
Authors: B. NIKILA , S. ALLIMALARKODI
Published: January 2024

Objective: A definitive objective for supporting drug discharge is to expand the remedial movement of the medication while limiting its incidental effects. Microspheres have become a unique medicine delivery mechanism for several disorders in this area. The popular fluoroquinolone antibiotic, Ciprofloxacin, is used to treat a variety of bacterial illnesses. This research aims to create Ciprofloxacin microspheres with sustained drug delivery using natural gum polymers.
Methods: To choose and assess the ideal formulation, a variety of formulations (F1–F8) were developed. This work was completed using an innovative technology, the Ionic Gelation method. Central Composite Design (CCD) used the quadratic forward regression approach to carry out the optimization. The evaluation tests include Particle size, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), FTIR, Percentage yield, Drug content, Drug Entrapment effectiveness and in vitro dissolution studies.
Results: It was discovered that the best formulation was F4. From optimization, the ANOVA was found to be significant. The uneven, spherical structure of microspheres with a rough outer surface is confirmed by SEM investigation. The absence of drug-polymer interaction is confirmed by the FTIR. The formulation F4 was deemed ideal due to its high drug entrapment efficiency, drug content and maximal drug release (89.25% in 12 h).
Conclusion: Due to the least plasma half-life, this drug is designed as microspheres thus maximizing the therapeutic activity and minimizing the negative effects. In this regard, microspheres have emerged as novel drug-delivery systems for various diseases. It maintains effective dose concentration, eliminates night-time dosage and decreases side effects, thus optimizing drug therapy.
Tendulkar’s Kanyadaan: A Critical Representation of Caste, Class and Gender
Authors: Kumar Dr. Santosh
Published: January 2024

Abstract: One can see the primary difference between man and woman on the basis of their gender. This biasness depicts the biased mentality of men and their dominating society. It is seen in Indian English Drama that Gender consciousness is one of the most burning and dominating issue that Indian dramatists aim to reflect in their plays. After six decades of post - colonial account of Indian English fiction, we get that a wide-ranging range of playwrights have emerged concentrating consciousness on a huge figure of marvelous concerns whether economic, political, spiritual, and social. These playwrights confronted three corresponding periods of human experience. As we know that there is a large number of playwrights who emerged and focused on the burning issues of India. Among those Vijay Dhondopant Tendulkar is such a playwrights who not only see the social evils but also depicted on literary canvas as it should be. Tendulkar (1928 - 2008) is a foremost and televisio’s prominent Indian playwright. He wrote for movie and television. Besides these, he is a legendary essayist, radical columnist, and social interpreter too, chiefly in Marathi language. As we have me ntioned earlie r t hat Tendulakar has experie nced the problem, need and necessities of Indian societ y. In thi s way it can’t be argued that the most of Tendulkar’s plays derived motivation from real - life happenings orsocial disorders which helped him to provide a clear estimate of the punitive genuineness
Overview of Drug Approval Process and Post Approval Changes in Europe
Authors: Navale Sakshi A , Basarkar Ganesh D.
Published: January 2024

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) is facilitate development and access to medicine, evaluating applications for marketing authorization, monitoring the safety of medicines across their lifecycle and providing information to healthcare professionals and patients.

In order to obtain a marketing authorization in Europe, a medicine must meet a number of criteria before it can be filed with the European Medicines Agency (EMA). This article is looks at the EMA’s Drug approval process and post approval changes. The decentralized regulatory body, or EMA, is in charge of overseeing the safety of food and drug (pharmaceutical products) in Europe. The applications are examined, and member state looks over the safety and effectiveness data before approving the drug.  EU establishes 4 different drug approval processes:

1)      National Procedure

2)      Decentralized Procedure

3)      Centralized Procedure

4)      Mutual Recognition Procedure

The goal of the current study is to clarify the function of post-approval change management in preventing non-compliance. The current study has concentrated on locating the current regulations and practices in this field and comprehending the fundamental ideas for post approval compliance for licenses relevant to marketing permission. Though change management is essential to a pharmaceutical's lifespan that is the study's main finding. However, the expense of compliance has escalated due to a lack of a clearly defined framework and a lack of understanding of the same, which has led to step-motherly treatment being applied to compliance and license maintenance.

Conclusion

Europe has the highest thought-due approval rates worldwide. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) aims to guarantee that patients in the EU have access to medicines that are of the highest caliber, are reliable, and are secure. Public regulatory agencies have the responsibility of ensuring that pharmaceutical firms follow the law. In order to ensure patient safety and well-being, laws mandate that pharmaceuticals be created, tested, tracked, and manufactured in compliance with the standards. A guideline, in addition to the European legislation that defines variation types, gives out a harmonized list of anticipated variations with categorization codes. A defined list of variations for European

A MA has existed since 1998. Legislation has been amended on a regular basis, and the most recent amendment, in August 2013, made implementation mandatory at the national level, and the variation process was totally harmonized across the EU.
A Review of Registration and Approval Process of Medical Device in India and Japan
Authors: Kumavat Shubham N. , Kothari Lokesh P. , Mundada Atish S.
Published: January 2024

Today, millions of people rely on medical device-based treatment to manage and diagnose a variety of disorders. The regulatory requirements determine the device's quality and safety. Because of the enormous population and the potential severity of the consequences of introducing inferior and dangerous materials to the market, medical device production in India should be regarded seriously. As a result, a legislation including suitable guidelines for rules and regulations is required to monitor the introduction of such devices into public health use. Currently, the regulatory body CDSCO governs device regulation in India, and amendments to the law will give public health safety ensure over time. In Japan, pharmaceutical regulatory affairs are overseen by the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare (MHLW or Koseirodosho in Japanese). Formal authorization and licenses obtained from the MHLW are required for drug marketing in Japan. The regulatory plans are one of the most difficult components of launching a medical device because every medical device is unique. Every significant market, such as India and Japan, has its own specific set of legal requirements. Understanding the critical need for national standardization in order to reduce regulatory burdens, ease commerce, and provide access to innovative technology requires more research.
Regulatory Skeleton of Medical Devices in the European Union
Authors: Kalva Soundarya Reddy , Sahitya Reddy Kalva  , Haripriya
Published: January 2024

‘Medical device’ means any instrument, apparatus, implement, machine, appliance, implant, reagent for in vitro use, software, material or other similar or related article, intended by the manufacturer to be used, alone or in combination, for human beings, for one or more of the specific medical purpose(s).  Medical devices make an essential contribution to healthcare in the Europe for the benefit of European citizens. These products must undergo a conformity assessment to demonstrate that they meet legal requirements to ensure they are safe and perform as intended. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) is responsible for the scientific evaluation of a product through centralized marketing authorisation applications (MAA). In order to commercialize medical devices in the European Union, a (European Conformity) CE Mark certificate is needed.
A Comparative Review on the Regulatory Framework of Pediatric Drugs in the US and EU: Challenges and Recommendations
Authors: Sowmya V. Sri , Manjulatha Y.B , Indusekhar J. N. B , Raju V. Bhaskar
Published: January 2024

Children and adults have different pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles, so it is necrssary to confirm the drug's effects in pediatrics. Drugs utilised in paediatric research They are frequently referred to as "therapeutic orphans" since they are challenging to develop and lack adequate data. Therefore, it becomes necessary to study the optimal dosages and formulations in various age groups of children. The significance of pediatric rules emerged from the fact that the physiological conditions of adults and children are different, and the same dosing regimen cannot be recommended for both. The child protection in research was recommended at the Belmont report (1979) first time. The necessity for written informed consent of the subject from a legally authorized representative of a child was described in the Declaration of Helsinki (1964). The scarcity of available patient populations, practical complexities of research, and minimal financial returns have hampered pharmaceutical investment in the clinical studies for children. More recently, pediatric policy in the US and Europe have instituted a system of obligations and incentives to stimulate investment in the pediatric drugs development. These initiatives, in conjunction with a more sophisticated process of drug discovery and development, resulting in significant advancements in the labelling of drugs for pediatric use. The present study reviews the regulation of pediatric drugs in the USA, EU and recent updates concerned to their regulations. It discusses the pediatric clinical study plans, Incentives, Timelines, challenges and possible recommendations. The challenges include ethical issues, clinical trial designs, type of formulation preparation, dosing, bioavailability and drug response measuring techniques.
Product Patrolling: Learning Recall execution Strategies through Case studies
Authors: Bobhate Ankita , Bajare Piyush N. , Kale Vinita V. , Harane Suankit A. , Umekar Milind J.
Published: January 2024

There has been an increasing trend in the number of prescribed and over-the-counter drug recall over the last few years. The recall is usually due to company’s discovery, customer’s complaint or Food and Drug Administration (FDA) observation. The process of recall involves a planned specific course of action, which addresses the depth of recall, need for public warning, and the extent of effectiveness checks for the recall.This abstract explores the critical aspects of pharmaceutical drug product recalls, focusing on their classification, recall levels, and effective recall strategies. The pharmaceutical industry faces challenges in ensuring the safety and efficacy of drug products, necessitating a robust recall framework. We delve into the classification of recalls, ranging from voluntary actions to mandated recalls, emphasizing the importance of prompt and transparent communication. Recall levels, categorized based on the severity of potential health risks, are examined to provide a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory landscape. Furthermore, this abstract highlights innovative recall strategies, encompassing technology-driven traceability, stakeholder collaboration, and crisis communication. By addressing these key elements, this research contributes to enhancing the efficiency and reliability of drug product recall processes, ultimately safeguarding public health and bolstering industry resilience.
Minusvaloración y potencialidad educativa de un hecho histórico “pintoresco”: El Rey de la Araucanía, Orelie-Antoine de Tounens, en los textos escolares de Historia, Geografía y Ciencias Sociales, entre los años de 1981 y 2022
Authors: González-Marilicán Matías , Montanares-Vargas Elizabeth
Published: January 2024

Se analizaron los libros de texto chilenos de la asignatura de Historia, Geografía y Ciencias Sociales publicados en las décadas de 1980, 2000 y 2010, para determinar el tratamiento didáctico que hacen de Orelie-Antoine de Tounens o Rey de la Araucanía, en la segunda mitad del siglo XIX. Las fuentes fueron sometidas a un análisis de contenido documental y cuantitativo. Los resultados indican, que, aunque el Rey de la Araucanía tiene un potencial explicativo que se nutre de los principios de la historia local, política y biográfica, los materiales educativos no han aprovechado tales utilidades. De hecho, se le ha representado como una anécdota “pintoresca” dentro de la expansión territorial chilena por sus afanes políticos, por su apariencia física e incluso psicológica. Esto sugiere una enseñanza de la historia alejada de los últimos avances historiográficos y de lo que significa la enseñanza de un tema “vivo”.
Origin and understanding of the geographical term “Baltics”: historical evidence from the 19th and 20th century
Authors:   University of Latvia, Faculty of History and Philosophy, Department of History and Archaeology, Ceruzis Raimonds
Published: January 2024

The aim of this study is to explain the historical origin, development and understanding of the geographical term “Baltic” or “Baltics”. A wide range of local and foreign historical sources have been used for the study. Applied historical sources show the use of term by different ethnic groups in local society as well as abroad. Events of two centuries are marking a different trend in the semantical content of the term. The results of the study show that period of the rule of Russian Empire over the Baltics is closely connected with a rather narrow understanding of the concept, which was formed by the elite of local German-speakers, and related to areas inhabited by Baltic Germans, Estonians and Latvians. Later periods were marked by changes related to the period of independent Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, the period of their occupation, and the period after the restoration of their independence. These periods of history strengthened a broader understanding of the term associated with the three Baltic States.
Inbound tourism in Latvia during three decades of independence: development phases, key drivers and challenges
Authors:   Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences. Latvia, van der Steina Aija , Rozite Maija ,   Turiba University, Latvia, Jarvis Jeff ,   Monash University, Australia
Published: January 2024

This article reviews the development of inbound tourism in Latvia over the three decades following the restoration of its independence following occupation by the USSR. The analysis uses the tourist area life cycle framework, which describes tourism development and factors during different development stages. The first stage can be described as the post 1991–2000 “economic pivot and transition phase”, where the orientation of the tourism economy shifted from east to west. Secondly, a “tourism boom phase” occurred between 2001–2009, bookended by the commencement of the EU transition process and concluding with the global financial crisis in Europe. Thirdly, a “managed growth phase” was characterised by a period of steady growth of the tourism economy. This phase included the demand surge associated with Riga becoming the European Union’s “capital of culture” and greater integration with external industry trends, concluding with the COVID-19 crisis of 2020. The article describes the crucial developmental factors and challenges in each development phase of post-independence inbound tourism.
Sedimentary evidence of paleovegetation and human activity at Pope manor in the 17th – 19th centuries
Authors:   University of Latvia, Faculty of Geography and Earth Sciences, Skagale Gundega , Vijups Armands ,   University of Latvia, Faculty of History and Philosophy, Kalnina Laimdota ,   University of Latvia, Faculty of Geography and Earth Sciences, Cerina Aija ,   University of Latvia, Faculty of Geography and Earth Sciences, Batraga Anna ,   University of Latvia, Faculty of Geography and Earth Sciences
Published: January 2024

Sediments are an important archive, containing evidence of natural events and human activity in a given place. For this reason, a 49-cm-long sediment monolith of a section from the slope of an elevation at Pope, where the hunting castle is situated, was taken during archaeological excavations with the aim of finding out the environmental conditions during formation of the cultural layer. Samples were studied using a multidisciplinary approach, including sediment composition, granulometric and mineralogical composition analysis, as well as paleobotanical analysis of plant macroscopic remains and pollen analyses. The results obtained in all analyses complement each other and give the impression that naturally accumulated sediments were mixed by human activity. This is evidenced by their similar composition throughout the section. The results of analyses of macroscopic plant remains and pollen contained in the sediments indicate the environmental conditions at the time during the existence of the hunting castle at Pope. According to the data of paleobotanical analyses, and the considerable amount of grasses, especially weeds, the landscape was relatively open and cultivated.
Shifting inner-city sociodemographics: the case of Riga
Authors:   University of Latvia, Faculty of Geography and Earth Sciences, Balode Sindija
Published: January 2024

Post-socialist inner cities are rapidly re-urbanising - a process that typically involves major changes in their population composition. The aim of this study was to find out how the sociodemographic status of inner-city residents of Riga changed between 2011 and 2021. In order to do that, this study explored and summarised prior research on the inner city of Riga and expanded on these findings by employing a neighbourhood-level statistical analysis of the most recent population composition and housing data, which was then mapped. The results revealed that not only did the inner-city population grow in size in the second half of the decade, but it also attracted an increasing number of young adults of a high socio-economic status, among other signs of reurbanisation increasingly present in the study period. Most of these reurbanisation processes were spatially fragmented, thus increasing the risk of growing socio-spatial inequalities within the inner city and between the inner city and the outer city.
Development and location patterns of creative quarters in Riga
Authors:   University of Latvia, Faculty of Geography and Earth Sciences, Feizaka Margarita
Published: January 2024

While investigation of the phenomenon of creative quarters in Western cities has long been widespread, city quarter development, both the process itself and discourse on this subject, is rather new in the post-socialist space. The aim of this research is to provide a general insight into the development of creative quarters in Riga, focusing on their evolution in terms of geographical location and development patterns, such as timeline and trajectories. This study identified nine creative quarters in Riga. The findings indicate that six out of nine quarters are located in the inner city of Riga, and seven out of nine are located in industrial areas. Furthermore, this research revealed that most of them have been established during the last six years, with at least one new quarter each year. It also reveals that eventually the creative quarters experience capitalisation and expand beyond creative industries, beginning to offer other services.
Pengembangan Sistem Informasi Gampong Berbasis Digital di Gampong Lam Bheu
Authors: Siti Zahara  , Marni Safitri  , Nova Amalia  , Taufik
Published: January 2024

Digitalisasi desa dalam upaya pembangunan desa yang lebih terarah dan dalam rangka meningkatkan mutu dan kualitas terutama dalam penyelenggaraan pemerintahan desa merupakan program pemerintah pusat dengan slogan "membagun Indonesia dari desa". Salah satunya dalam hal pemberian pelayanan kepada Masyarakat dengan pemanfaatan Digitalisasi seperti Aplikasi Sistem Informasi Gampong (SIGAP), Sistem Informasi Gampong (SID), dan Pejabat Pengelola Informasi dan Dokumentasi (PPID). Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini yaitu metode kualitatif yang dilakukan secara langsung melalui observasi dan wawancara. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pengembangan digitalisasi Gampong bertumpu pada dukungan Pemerintah Pusat, sumber daya manusia, Partisipasi Masyarakat, dan Otonomi Gampong menjadi faktor penting agar program tersebut dapat berjalan dengan lancar, efektif dan efisien. Selanjutnya, dari ketiga aplikasi tersebut aplikasi SID lebih unggul dari aplikasi SIGAP, sedangkan aplikasi PPID mempunyai fitur tersendiri.
Cepacian degrading Cytobacillus sp. strain Dbc1 with anti-biofilm activity potentiating antibiotic efficacy against Burkholderia cepacia biofilm development
Authors:   Department of Microbiology, The University of Burdwan, Bardhaman-713 104, India, Ghosh D. , Seth M. ,   Department of Microbiology, The University of Burdwan, Bardhaman-713 104, India, Mondal P. ,   Department of Microbiology, The University of Burdwan, Bardhaman-713 104, India, Mukhopadhyay S.K. ,   Department of Microbiology, The University of Burdwan, Bardhaman-713 104, India
Published: January 2024

Aim: Inhibition of biofilm formation in Burkholderia cepacia through enzymatic degradation of predominant exopolysaccharide (cepacian) of B. cepacia. Methodology: Cepacian was extracted from B. cepacia followed by isolation and identification of potent cepacian utilizing bacteria based on planktonic growth using cepacian as sole carbon source. Effective lyase activity (responsible for cepacian breakdown) and anti-biofilm activity of potent isolate against B. cepacia was determined. Effect of biofilm disintegration on antibiotic penetration into biofilm was detected. Lastly, inhibition of biofilm formation by crude lyase preparation of the isolate inside an external medical device was detected. Results: Cytobacillus sp. strain Dbc1 was the most potent cepacian degrading bacteria which showed significant lyase activity and reduced total biomass of both newly formed and pre-formed biofilm of B. cepacia. Cepacian degradation potentiated chloramphenicol penetration within pre-formed biofilm leading to cell mortality in B. cepacia. Cytobacillus sp. strain Dbc1significantly reduced total biomass of established biofilm inside nasal oxygen catheter. Interpretation: It can be concluded that Cytobacillus sp. strain Dbc1 significantly controlled mature B. cepacia biofilm through potent cepacian degrading and anti-biofilm activity along with better antibiotic targeting into established biofilm. Strain Dbc1 can be used to inhibit medical device- associated biofilms in vitro. Key words: Antibiotic susceptibility, Biofilm inhibition, Burkholderia cepacia, Cepacian breakdown, Multi-drug resistance
Optimization of cold active amylase production by mesophilic Bacillus cereus RGUJS2023 under submerged fermentation
Authors:   Department of Microbiology, Raiganj University, Raiganj-733 134, India, Samanta A. , Jana S.C. ,   Department of Microbiology, Raiganj University, Raiganj-733 134, India
Published: January 2024

Aim: To produce the highest amount of cold-active alpha-amylase within a short time using mesophilic bacteria with optimized media to save the energy consumption cost and obtain higher enzyme production. Methodology: Amylase producing twenty-three strains were isolated on starch peptone agar plates. Among them, one strain, A5 was selected on the basis of highest clear (12 mm) zone on starch peptone agar plates. It was characterized and identified following Bergey's Manual of Systematic Bacteriology. Enzyme was characterized as Cold alpha amylase. All physico-chemical parameters (temperature, pH, Inoculum size) including carbon, nitrogen, metal ion and amino acid sources were optimized for maximum production of the enzyme. The optimized media was used for enhancing the cold active amylase production. Results: The strain, A5 was identified as Bacillus cereus RGUJS2023 by 16S rRNA sequencing analysis for further experiments. This strain showed the highest activity (9.922± 0.143 U ml-1) on the basal starch peptone media. Though, crude enzyme showed its activity at 4°C to 48°C temperature, but the temperature was 28°C. The highest cold active enzyme was produced (18.87±0.06 U ml-1) at 16 hr of bacterial growth at 35 °C with a pH 6.5 in the optimized media containing 0.5% starch, 0.1% peptone and 0.03% MgSO4.7H2O as a carbon, nitrogen and metal ion sources, respectively, with addition of 0.03% arginine. Interpretation: The cold active alpha amylase could be used commercially for the benefit of pharmaceutical and starch processing industries. Key words: Bacillus cereus RGUJS2023, Cold-active amylase, Starch hydrolysis
Analysis of Consumer Purchase Satisfaction According to Network Marketing Selection Attributes of Inner Beauty Products
Authors:   J-Institute, F F , F F
Published: January 2024

Purpose: Korean society is increasingly interested in expressing a beautifully maintained appearance rather than simply pursuing beauty. In addition, the development and sales of beauty products related to this are increasing as people are demanding to think about their inner health as well as their outer appearance. Therefore, this study focused on inner beauty products sold through network marketing and objectively examined how consumers evaluate their purchase satisfaction according to their choice attributes.
Method: Participants in the study were participants who had purchased inner beauty products through network marketing, and 212 response sheets were used for the final analysis. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to verify the influence of network marketing selection attributes of inner beauty products on consumer purchase satisfaction, and the significance level according to statistical test was determined at p<.05.
Results: Multiple regression analysis was conducted to examine the multidimensional influence of the factors of the choice attributes of the study participants on the sub-factors of the purchase satisfaction variables. The results of the study showed that the choice attributes that have a significant impact on consumer purchase satisfaction are internal choice attributes and ecological choice attributes, except for external choice attributes.
Conclusion: Consumption choice attributes of modern people show various consumption behaviors depending on individual characteristics and perceived value. In this study, we examined how consumer purchase satisfaction is manifested according to the choice attributes of consumers participating in network marketing. Based on these results, it is expected that network marketing operators can use it as an objective data on the selection attributes and purchase satisfaction evaluation of inner beauty products so that they can have an independent attitude as business owners.
A Study of the Effect of Beauty Consumer Sentiment after Covid-19 on Hair Salon Revisit Intention
Authors:   J-Institute, F F
Published: January 2024

Purpose: As social distancing continues due to the pandemic, research results show that psychologically exhausted people are willing to increase consumption despite their perception of safety due to compensation psychology. Following research results showing that the safety of beauty must be ensured due to Covid-19, it is being argued that the beauty industry, which was greatly affected by the economic downturn, should be revitalized as Covid-19 enters a phase of calming down again. Therefore, there is a need to verify what factors influence customers who visited hair salons before Covid-19 to revisit the salon. The purpose of this study is to present a positive impact as a way to stimulate the intention to revisit hair salons.
Method: The data of this study was an online survey targeting men and women who had experience of using hair salons. we aim to analyze the effect of Beauty Consumer Sentiment after Covid-19 and its sub-factors on Hair salon Revisit Intention. The data were statistically analyzed using SPSS 25.0, and first exploratory factor analysis was performed to analyze the validity of the measurement tool. Reliability was analyzed using Cronbach's alpha coefficient. Frequency analysis and descriptive statistical analysis were performed. Independent t-test, Pearson’s correlation analysis and regression analysis were performed.
Results: Beauty Consumer Sentiment after Covid-19 had a significant positive effect on Hair salon Revisit Intention. Among the subfactors of Beauty Consumer Sentiment after Covid-19, Safety Expectations and Psychological Compensation did not have a significant positive influence on Hair Salon Revisit Intention. Among the subfactors of Beauty Consumer Sentiment after Covid-19, service expectation had a significant positive effect on Hair salon revisit intention.
Conclusion: As Beauty consumer sentiment improves, repeat visits increase. Among consumer psychology, it was found that service expectation had a positive influence. This can be said to be a similar result to how service quality affects repeat visits. The reason why safety expectations have not had an impact after Covid-19 is because safety is fully recognized, so safety cannot be seen as leading to repeat visits. It can be said to be a differentiated study in that it yielded different results from existing studies on safety and compensation psychology. In future research, we hope to overcome the limitations of this study and to achieve objective and clear research results by diversifying the study in more detail by region and age.
Observing floe-scale sea ice motion in the Greenland Sea marginal ice zone during summer
Authors: Watkins Daniel Mark , Buckley Ellen , Kim Minki , Wilhelmus Monica Martinez
Published: January 2024

The Fram Strait is a key region for ice export, linking the Arctic with
the world ocean. We present floe-scale observations of sea ice motion in
the Fram Strait marginal ice zone (MIZ) derived from moderate-scale
optical imagery spanning the 2003-2020 period. Tracked ice floes provide
Lagrangian measures of ice motion during the spring and summer. We show
that the floe size distribution affects the rotation rates and
fluctuating velocities of sea ice floes. Using simulations based on a
quasi-geostrophic ocean model and a discrete element sea ice model, we
show that ocean eddy forcing alone can produce the distinct non-Gaussian
velocity anomaly distributions seen in observations. The scale of the
velocity distributions decreases with increasing floe size and with
increasing distance from the ice edge. Similarly, we show that the
rotation rate distribution in both observations and simulations narrows
with increasing floe size. Finally, we show that the deformation rates
measured from tracked MIZ ice floes reproduce the power law scaling seen
in the central Arctic, with the deformation rate decreasing as the scale
of observations increases. The observations presented here provide a new
avenue for sea ice model development and validation in the summer MIZ.
Political Turnover and Audit Opinion: Evidence from China
Authors: He Ku , Pan Xiaofei , Tian Yunlin , Wu Yanling
Published: January 2024

In this study, we examine how political turnover influences auditor reporting behavior by focusing on the turnover of Chinese provincial governors. We predict that the Big 10 audit firms tend to report more conservatively to counter the uncertainties induced by governor turnover, whereas local small audit firms would report more aggressively to help governors conceal local negative information. Using 11,405 audits conducted in the Chinese economy, we find that the Big 10 audit firms report more Modified Audit Opinions (MAOs), whereas local small audit firms render more clean opinions in the pre-turnover than other nonturnover years. We also find that: (1) audit firms readjust their reporting behavior after governor turnover ends; and (2) governor turnover can be well anticipated one year ahead. Overall, our study suggests that political turnover wields a significant influence on auditor reporting behavior and this influence further varies across audit firms.

Data Availability: Data are available from the public sources cited in the text.

JEL Classifications: D72; M42; M38; M48.
Relative Performance Information and Rule-Breaking: The Moderating Effect of Group Identity
Authors: Ewelt-Knauer Corinna , Knauer Thorsten , Winkelmann Sandra
Published: January 2024

Firms frequently provide relative performance information (RPI) in different environmental contexts. In this experimental study, we investigate how RPI (absent versus present) affects rule-breaking under different levels of group identity (lower versus higher). We refer to performance-improving rule-breaking that increases not only one’s own performance but also overall firm performance. We predict and find that RPI triggers a stronger increase in rule-breaking in cases of higher group identity than in cases of lower group identity. We argue that in the case of lower group identity, individuals mainly follow their own moral standards independently of RPI provision. In contrast, we reason that individuals with higher group identity generally want to impress their fellow group members when RPI is absent by following the rules, but when RPI is present by achieving a high rank through rule-breaking. Our results inform managers about the importance of considering RPI in conjunction with group identity.

Data Availability: Data are available from Sandra Winkelmann.

JEL Classifications: M40; M41.
Hydrogeological investigation of the Paine Aquifer considering baseline conditions from 1970 and long - term analysis from 1990 to 2020
Authors:   Universidad Bernardo O'Higgins, Gamboa Carolina , Herrera Christian , Salgado Ximena , Arumi José Luis , Calderón Raúl
Published: January 2024

Groundwater resources are vital for meeting the world's freshwater needs, providing the primary source of drinking water for nearly half the global population, and are particularly important for agriculture and industry in dry regions. The Paine Basin, situated south of Santiago, Chile, has been heavily affected by an extended mega-drought, influencing water availability for various uses. Yet, comprehensive hydrogeological studies to understand the aquifer system and establish a baseline for future actions in the basin to better manage water resources have been lacking. Therefore, this study investigates the aquifer's conditions in 1970, considered closest to its undisturbed state. It uses water table and chemical data to discern groundwater flow directions and the relationship between the river and the aquifer. Subsequent temporal analyses using Mann-Kendall tests and Theil-Sen slope estimation on DGA well-level data aim to statistically verify the significance of water level declines. The findings confirm an east-to-west groundwater flow, corroborated by chemical signatures linking the Paine waters to the Maipo River, suggesting river recharge from the aquifer during that era. However, recent trends indicate a significant drop in water levels since the mega-drought began in 2010, not aligning with the increase in groundwater extractions starting in 2005. The above highlights that additional water sources, such as river infiltration or irrigation return flow, need to be considered to explain water level variability, which highlights the hydrology of the basin. Finally, trend analysis over the last 30 years indicates that hydrodynamic conditions have changed since the initial conditions were considered in 1970.
Fog water traps as a low-cost alternative source of water in coastal desert areas of the Pacific
Authors:   Universidad de Atacama, Morales Vergara Luis Patricio , Cunha Lima Ricardo , Bonnail Estefanía , González Allende Carlos
Published: January 2024

Water scarcity is the most common concept associated with the desert. The Atacama Desert is worldly known as the aridest desert on Earth. However, some populations are established in this area, requiring water for living that promotes the search of alternative water sources, as fog catchers taking in advance the regional fog event known as Camanchaca. During 2015, the construction of fog trap units was carried out on a hill in the Falda Verde sector in Chañaral (North Chile). In the design of these new fog trap units it was considered to improve the anchoring system and the distribution and angles of the clamping tensioners in order that the structure could withstand the maximum wind speeds that have been registered in the area, while recording the water accumulated by these units during a period of 12 months determined an average catchment of 22 liters of water/m2 per month.
Analysis of land use change using remote sensing and GIS techniques in the Cazaderos forest, Loja province, Southern Ecuador
Authors:   Universidad Técnica Estatal de Quevedo, Muñoz Marcillo José Luis , Cabrera Sinche Byron , Toulkeridis Theofilos
Published: January 2024

The predominant aim of the current study has been to determine land use change over a period of eight years in the Cazaderos dry forest in the province of Loja in Ecuador using remote sensing and GIS techniques. The methodology employed included the application of supervised classification of multispectral satellite imag-es applied to freely available Landsat 8 images using Catalyst image processing software and the application of the Object Analysis technique, which is presented as the methodological protocol in remote sensing that offers the highest level of accuracy. This process was accompanied by complementary Geographical Infor-mation System (GIS) techniques that allowed spatialization and quantification of the resulting information. The Cazaderos dry forest in the period of analysis has suffered a significant spatial fragmentation dominated by the current presence of bare soils that were previously covered by dense shrubs and have undergone a process of deforestation. During the period 2013 - 2021 the deforestation process extended to an area of 1273.95 ha corresponding to 15.21% of the total surface of the study area while reforestation reached 1426.86 ha corresponding to 17.04% of the total surface.
Plastic Artefacts from Archaeological Investigations Carried out at the Auschwitz-Birkenau Camp Complex in 2015–2022
Authors: Tabaszewski Wojciech , Peschel Kamila
Published: January 2024

This article is a study of the results of archaeological research conducted at the site of the former German concentration camp Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Jawischowitz forced labour sub-camp attached to it. It discusses historical objects produced from plastics, as a result of chemical modification of natural products or synthesis of products of chemical processing of coal, oil or natural gas. The history of previous archaeological research at the site of the former Auschwitz-Birkenau camp complex and its sub-camps is outlined. The scope and regions of research that were carried out by the authors between 2015 and 2022 are discussed. Plastic products have been characterised by grouping them in terms of raw material and function, distinguishing among other things everyday objects and parts of clothing. On this basis, a comparative base was created, which can serve as a basis for applying a preliminary chronological division of plastic products.
Landscape of Resistance. Traces of the Military Training of the Lithuanian Liberation Army in Plokštinė Forest, Samogitia, Northwestern Lithuania
Authors: Petrauskas Gediminas
Published: January 2024

In recent years, fortified and open-type campsites of the Lithuanian Partisan War (1944–1953) have become the subject of archaeological research in Lithuania. The military training camp for soldiers of the Lithuanian Liberation Army (the so-called Vanagai, or Hawks) in Plokštinė Forest (Plungė District), Samogitia region, northwestern Lithuania was investigated by the author of this paper in 2019 and 2020. From 15 to 25 August 1944, in the face of the impending second Soviet invasion, the Plokštinė Forest camp was used to train the Samogitian youths in the basics of armed resistance. Archaeological field research carried out in the Plokštinė Forest allowed the determination of the exact location of the Vanagai military training camp and firearms training ground, the collection of archaeological data on the camp, its layout and equipment, as well as the everyday life of the Vanagai, and the weapons they used. This paper presents the results of the archaeological research of the Vanagai military training camp and their analysis. Based on the research data, the importance of the landscape in the selection of the campsite and firearms training ground, their spatial layout and the identification of activity areas are discussed.