bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antioxidative and Immunomodulatory Potential of the Endemic French Guiana Wild Cocoa “Guiana”
Authors: Jean-Marie Elodie , Bereau Didier , Poucheret Patrick , Guzman Caroline , Boudard Frederic , Robinson Jean-Charles
Published: March 2021

Guiana is a little-known and endemic variety of cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.), native to French Guiana. No data were available regarding its chemical composition and biological properties; therefore, a study was necessary, using Forastero as a reference. To exemplify biological activities of the cacao species, cocoa extracts were evaluated by antioxidant (DPPH, FRAP, ORAC) and anti-inflammatory assays. Our results showed that raw Guiana presented equivalent DPPH and FRAP activities, but a 1.3-fold higher antioxidant activity (1097 ± 111.8 μM ET/g DM) than Forastero (838.5 ± 67.8 μM ET/g DM) in ORAC assay. Furthermore, the impact of fermentation (under four conditions: unfermented, two days, four days and six days of fermentation) on Guiana cocoa beans composition and health properties was also studied. Indeed, fermentation, a key step necessary to obtain the taste and color of chocolate, is generally known to alter bean composition and modulate its health benefits. At six days, the fermentation process led to a nearly 25% lower antioxidative capacity in various assays. Moreover, in inflammation-induced macrophage assays, Guiana and Forastero unfermented extracts induced a 112% stimulation in TNF-α production, and a 56.8% inhibition of IL-6 production. Fermentation altered the cocoa composition by diminishing bioactive compounds, which could be responsible for these biological activities. Indeed, after six days of fermentation, compounds decreased from 614.1 ± 39.3 to 332.3 ± 29 mg/100 g DM for epicatechin, from 254.1 ± 14.8 to 129.5 ± 20.7 mg/100 g DM for procyanidin B2 and from 178.4 ± 23.5 to 81.7 ± 2.9 mg/100 g DM for procyanidin C1. The similar composition and the equivalent or higher antioxidant activity of Guiana leads us to propose it as an alternative to Forastero.
Long-Term Care Resident Awareness and Interest in Spasticity Treatments
Authors: Hacker Mallory L. , Putman Michael S. , Gill Chandler E. , Turchan Maxim , Hudson Taylor S. , Currie Amanda D. , Phibbs Fenna T. , Charles David
Published: March 2021

Spasticity is common in long-term care settings (affecting up to one in three residents), yet it remains under-treated despite safe and effective, Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved therapies. One barrier to treatment may be lack of awareness of available therapies for long-term care residents living with spasticity. A standardized spasticity treatment awareness and interest interview was conducted with 18 nursing home residents and 11 veterans’ home residents in this cross-sectional study. Veterans’ home residents were also asked about potential barriers to receiving spasticity treatment. Many residents across both long-term care facilities were unaware of most of the treatment options for spasticity. Participants were most aware of physical/occupational therapy (83%, 95% CI: 65–93%) and least aware of intrathecal baclofen (21%, 95% CI: 9–39%). After learning about treatments, only 7% of participants (95% CI: 0–23%) were not interested in receiving any form of spasticity treatment. Among residents previously unaware of spasticity treatments, at least one quarter became interested in receiving treatment and at least one-fifth indicated possibly being interested in the treatment after learning about it. Potential barriers to receiving treatment included traveling to see a doctor and limited knowledge of insurance coverage of spasticity treatments. These results suggest that patient-centered approaches, including education and discerning patient preferences, may improve spasticity treatment in long-term care settings.
New Insight into Justicidin B Pathway and Production in Linum austriacum
Authors: Mascheretti Iride , Alfieri Michela , Lauria Massimiliano , Locatelli Franca , Consonni Roberto , Cusano Erica , Dougué Kentsop Roméo A. , Laura Marina , Ottolina Gianluca , Faoro Franco , Mattana Monica
Published: March 2021

Lignans are the main secondary metabolites synthetized by Linum species as plant defense compounds but they are also valuable for human health, in particular, for novel therapeutics. In this work, Linum austriacum in vitro cultures, cells (Cc), adventitious roots (ARc) and hairy roots (HRc) were developed for the production of justicidin B through elicitation with methyl jasmonate (MeJA) and coronatine (COR). The performances of the cultures were evaluated for their stability, total phenols content and antioxidant ability. NMR was used to identify justicidin B and isojusticidin B and HPLC to quantify the production, highlighting ARc and HRc as the highest productive tissues. MeJA and COR treatments induced the synthesis of justicidin B more than three times and the synthesis of other compounds. RNA-sequencing and a de novo assembly of L. austriacum ARc transcriptome was generated to identify the genes activated by MeJA. Furthermore, for the first time, the intracellular localization of justicidin B in ARc was investigated through microscopic analysis. Then, HRc was chosen for small-scale production in a bioreactor. Altogether, our results improve knowledge on justicidin B pathway and cellular localization in L. austriacum for future scale-up processes.
Correction: Piras, A.M., et al. Antibacterial, Antibiofilm, and Antiadhesive Properties of Different Quaternized Chitosan Derivatives. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2019, 20, 6297
Authors: Piras Anna Maria , Esin Semih , Benedetti Arianna , Maisetta Giuseppantonio , Fabiano Angela , Zambito Ylenia , Batoni Giovanna
Published: March 2021

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
A PPR Protein ACM1 Is Involved in Chloroplast Gene Expression and Early Plastid Development in Arabidopsis
Authors: Wang Xinwei , An Yaqi , Li Ye , Xiao Jianwei
Published: March 2021

Chloroplasts cannot develop normally without the coordinated action of various proteins and signaling connections between the nucleus and the chloroplast genome. Many questions regarding these processes remain unanswered. Here, we report a novel P-type pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) factor, named Albino Cotyledon Mutant1 (ACM1), which is encoded by a nuclear gene and involved in chloroplast development. Knock-down of ACM1 transgenic plants displayed albino cotyledons but normal true leaves, while knock-out of the ACM1 gene in seedlings was lethal. Fluorescent protein analysis showed that ACM1 was specifically localized within chloroplasts. PEP-dependent plastid transcript levels and splicing efficiency of several group II introns were seriously affected in cotyledons in the RNAi line. Furthermore, denaturing gel electrophoresis and Western blot experiments showed that the accumulation of chloroplast ribosomes was probably damaged. Collectively, our results indicate ACM1 is indispensable in early chloroplast development in Arabidopsis cotyledons.
Mitochondrial Calcium Signaling in Pancreatic β-Cell
Authors: Weiser Anna , Feige Jerome N. , De Marchi Umberto
Published: March 2021

Accumulation of calcium in energized mitochondria of pancreatic β-cells is emerging as a crucial process for pancreatic β-cell function. β-cell mitochondria sense and shape calcium signals, linking the metabolism of glucose and other secretagogues to the generation of signals that promote insulin secretion during nutrient stimulation. Here, we describe the role of mitochondrial calcium signaling in pancreatic β-cell function. We report the latest pharmacological and genetic findings, including the first mitochondrial calcium-targeted intervention strategies developed to modulate pancreatic β-cell function and their potential relevance in the context of diabetes.
Selenite Inhibits Notch Signaling in Cells and Mice
Authors: Powers Michael , Liu Liu , Deemer Dane , Chen Selina , Scholl Aaron , Yoshinaga Masafumi , Liu Zijuan
Published: March 2021

Selenium is an essential micronutrient with a wide range of biological effects in mammals. The inorganic form of selenium, selenite, is supplemented to relieve individuals with selenium deficiency and to alleviate associated symptoms. Additionally, physiological and supranutritional selenite have shown selectively higher affinity and toxicity towards cancer cells, highlighting their potential to serve as chemotherapeutic agents or adjuvants. At varying doses, selenite extensively regulates cellular signaling and modulates many cellular processes. In this study, we report the identification of Delta–Notch signaling as a previously uncharacterized selenite inhibited target. Our transcriptomic results in selenite treated primary mouse hepatocytes revealed that the transcription of Notch1, Notch2, Hes1, Maml1, Furin and c-Myc were all decreased following selenite treatment. We further showed that selenite can inhibit Notch1 expression in cultured MCF7 breast adenocarcinoma cells and HEPG2 liver carcinoma cells. In mice acutely treated with 2.5 mg/kg selenite via intraperitoneal injection, we found that Notch1 expression was drastically lowered in liver and kidney tissues by 90% and 70%, respectively. Combined, these results support selenite as a novel inhibitor of Notch signaling, and a plausible mechanism of inhibition has been proposed. This discovery highlights the potential value of selenite applied in a pathological context where Notch is a key drug target in diseases such as cancer, fibrosis, and neurodegenerative disorders.
Inflammasome in ALS Skeletal Muscle: NLRP3 as a Potential Biomarker
Authors: Moreno-García Leticia , Miana-Mena Francisco J. , Moreno-Martínez Laura , de la Torre Miriam , Lunetta Christian , Tarlarini Claudia , Zaragoza Pilar , Calvo Ana Cristina , Osta Rosario
Published: March 2021

Since NLRP3 inflammasome plays a pivotal role in several neurodegenerative disorders, we hypothesized that levels of inflammasome components could help in diagnosis or prognosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Gene and protein expression was assayed by RT-PCR and Western blot. Spearman’s correlation coefficient was used to determine the linear correlation of transcriptional expression levels with longevity throughout disease progression in mice models. Kaplan-Meier analysis was performed to evaluate MCC950 effects (NLRP3 inhibitor) on lifespan of SOD1G93A mice. The results showed significant alterations in NLRP3 inflammasome gene and protein levels in the skeletal muscle of SOD1G93A mice. Spearman’s correlation coefficient revealed a positive association between Nlrp3 transcriptional levels in skeletal muscle and longevity of SOD1G93A mice (r = 0.506; p = 0.027). Accordingly, NLRP3 inactivation with MCC950 decreased the lifespan of mice. Furthermore, NLRP3 mRNA levels were significantly elevated in the blood of ALS patients compared to healthy controls (p = 0.03). In conclusion, NLRP3 could be involved in skeletal muscle pathogenesis of ALS, either through inflammasome or independently, and may play a dual role during disease progression. NLRP3 gene expression levels could be used as a biomarker to improve diagnosis and prognosis in skeletal muscle from animal models and also to support diagnosis in clinical practice with the blood of ALS patients.
Genetic Predisposition to Myelodysplastic Syndromes: A Challenge for Adult Hematologists
Authors: Crisà Elena , Boggione Paola , Nicolosi Maura , Mahmoud Abdurraouf Mokhtar , Al Essa Wael , Awikeh Bassel , Aspesi Anna , Andorno Annalisa , Boldorini Renzo , Dianzani Irma , Gaidano Gianluca , Patriarca Andrea
Published: March 2021

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) arising in the context of inherited bone marrow failure syndromes (IBMFS) differ in terms of prognosis and treatment strategy compared to MDS occurring in the adult population without an inherited genetic predisposition. The main molecular pathways affected in IBMFS involve telomere maintenance, DNA repair, biogenesis of ribosomes, control of proliferation and others. The increased knowledge on the genes involved in MDS pathogenesis and the wider availability of molecular diagnostic assessment have led to an improvement in the detection of IBMFS genetic predisposition in MDS patients. A punctual recognition of these disorders implies a strict surveillance of the patient in order to detect early signs of progression and promptly offer allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, which is the only curative treatment. Moreover, identifying an inherited mutation allows the screening and counseling of family members and directs the choice of donors in case of need for transplantation. Here we provide an overview of the most recent data on MDS with genetic predisposition highlighting the main steps of the diagnostic and therapeutic management. In order to highlight the pitfalls of detecting IBMFS in adults, we report the case of a 27-year-old man affected by MDS with an underlying telomeropathy.
Evaluation of the Effect of Stability Schemes on the Simulation of Land Surface Processes at a Western Tibetan Site
Authors: Zhao Xingbing , Heng Zhiwei , Jiang Xingwen , Yang Qidong , Li Yubin , Yang Yuanjian , Gao Zhiqiu
Published: March 2021

The surface fluxes calculated in land surface models (LSMs) are sensitive to the determination of the stability parameter. Further, calculation of the surface fluxes over the Tibetan Plateau (TP) is crucial in the simulation of regional and global weather and climate. In this study, we use 2-year micrometeorological data measured from Shiquanhe, located in the western TP, to evaluate the performance of the widely used Noah LSM with five stability parameterization schemes. Results show that all five stability parameterization schemes can generally reproduce the observations, but the scheme proposed by Li has the smallest bias. The reason is that Li’s scheme is more accurate under the unstable condition, and the surface layer at Shiquanhe is mostly unstable. Further, the four non-iterative schemes show an advantage in terms of their computational efficiency compared to the iterative scheme adopted by the Noah LSM.
A Roadmap towards Precision Periodontics
Authors: Rakic Mia , Pejcic Natasa , Perunovic Neda , Vojvodic Danilo
Published: March 2021

Periodontitis is among the most common health conditions and represents a major public health issue related to increasing prevalence and seriously negative socioeconomic impacts. Periodontitis-associated low-grade systemic inflammation and its pathological interplay with systemic conditions additionally raises awareness on the necessity for highly performant strategies for the prevention and management of periodontitis. Periodontal diagnosis is the backbone of a successful periodontal strategy, since prevention and treatment plans depend on the accuracy and precision of the respective diagnostics. Periodontal diagnostics is still founded on clinical and radiological parameters that provide limited therapeutic guidance due to the multifactorial complexity of periodontal pathology, which is why biomarkers have been introduced for the first time in the new classification of periodontal and peri-implant conditions as a first step towards precision periodontics. Since the driving forces of precision medicine are represented by biomarkers and machine learning algorithms, with the lack of periodontal markers validated for diagnostic use, the implementation of a precision medicine approach in periodontology remains in the very initial stage. This narrative review elaborates the unmet diagnostic needs in periodontal diagnostics, the concept of precision periodontics, periodontal biomarkers, and a roadmap toward the implementation of a precision medicine approach in periodontal practice.
Spatio-Temporal Variation of the Bacterial Communities along a Salinity Gradient within a Thalassohaline Environment (Saline di Tarquinia Salterns, Italy)
Authors: Gorrasi Susanna , Franzetti Andrea , Ambrosini Roberto , Pittino Francesca , Pasqualetti Marcella , Fenice Massimiliano
Published: March 2021

The “Saline di Tarquinia” salterns have been scarcely investigated regarding their microbiological aspects. This work studied the structure and composition of their bacterial communities along the salinity gradient (from the nearby sea through different ponds). The communities showed increasing simplification of pond bacterial diversity along the gradient (particularly if compared to those of the sea). Among the 38 assigned phyla, the most represented were Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria and Bacteroidetes. Differently to other marine salterns, where at the highest salinities Bacteroidetes dominated, preponderance of Proteobacteria was observed. At the genus level the most abundant taxa were Pontimonas, Marivita, Spiribacter, Bordetella, GpVII and Lentibacter. The α-diversity analysis showed that the communities were highly uneven, and the Canonical Correspondence Analysis indicated that they were structured by various factors (sampling site, sampling year, salinity, and sampling month). Moreover, the taxa abundance variation in relation to these significant parameters were investigated by Generalized Linear Models. This work represents the first investigation of a marine saltern, carried out by a metabarcoding approach, which permitted a broad vision of the bacterial diversity, covering both a wide temporal span (two years with monthly sampling) and the entire salinity gradient (from the nearby sea up to the crystallisation ponds).
Understanding the Enablers and Barriers to Appropriate Infants and Young Child Feeding Practices in India: A Systematic Review
Authors: Dhami Mansi , Ogbo Felix , Akombi-Inyang Blessing , Torome Raphael , Agho Kingsley ,   on behalf of the Global Maternal and Child Health Research Collaboration (GloMACH)
Published: March 2021

Despite efforts to promote infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices, there is no collective review of evidence on IYCF enablers and barriers in India. This review was conducted using 2015 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Six computerized bibliographic databases, Scopus, PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Embase, and Ovid MEDLINE, were searched for published studies on factors associated with IYCF practices in India from 1 January 1993, to 30 April 2020. IYCF practices examined were early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, continued breastfeeding at one year, introduction to solid semi-solid or soft foods, minimum dietary diversity, minimum meal frequency, minimum acceptable diet, continued breastfeeding at two years, predominant breastfeeding, and bottle feeding. In total, 6968 articles were retrieved, and 46 studies met the inclusion criteria. The common enablers of IYCF were higher maternal socioeconomic status (SES) and more frequent antenatal care visits (ANC) (≥3). Common barriers to IYCF practices were low SES and less frequent ANC. The review showed that the factors associated with IYCF practices in India are largely modifiable and multi-factorial. Improving IYCF practices would require the adoption of both facilities- and community-based policy interventions at the subnational and national levels in India.
Proteomic Discovery of VEEV E2-Host Partner Interactions Identifies GRP78 Inhibitor HA15 as a Potential Therapeutic for Alphavirus Infections
Authors: Barrera Michael D. , Callahan Victoria , Akhrymuk Ivan , Bhalla Nishank , Zhou Weidong , Campbell Catherine , Narayanan Aarthi , Kehn-Hall Kylene
Published: March 2021

Alphaviruses are a genus of the Togaviridae family and are widely distributed across the globe. Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV) and eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV), cause encephalitis and neurological sequelae while chikungunya virus (CHIKV) and Sindbis virus (SINV) cause arthralgia. There are currently no approved therapeutics or vaccines available for alphaviruses. In order to identify novel therapeutics, a V5 epitope tag was inserted into the N-terminus of the VEEV E2 glycoprotein and used to identify host-viral protein interactions. Host proteins involved in protein folding, metabolism/ATP production, translation, cytoskeleton, complement, vesicle transport and ubiquitination were identified as VEEV E2 interactors. Multiple inhibitors targeting these host proteins were tested to determine their effect on VEEV replication. The compound HA15, a GRP78 inhibitor, was found to be an effective inhibitor of VEEV, EEEV, CHIKV, and SINV. VEEV E2 interaction with GRP78 was confirmed through coimmunoprecipitation and colocalization experiments. Mechanism of action studies found that HA15 does not affect viral RNA replication but instead affects late stages of the viral life cycle, which is consistent with GRP78 promoting viral assembly or viral protein trafficking.
Arginine Decarboxylase Is Essential for Pneumococcal Stress Responses
Authors: Frances Nakamya Mary , Ayoola Moses B. , Shack Leslie A. , Mohamed Mirghani , Swiatlo Edwin , Nanduri Bindu
Published: March 2021

Polyamines such as putrescine, cadaverine, and spermidine are small cationic molecules that play significant roles in cellular processes, including bacterial stress responses and host–pathogen interactions. Streptococcus pneumoniae is an opportunistic human pathogen, which causes several diseases that account for significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. As it transits through different host niches, S. pneumoniae is exposed to and must adapt to different types of stress in the host microenvironment. We earlier reported that S. pneumoniae TIGR4, which harbors an isogenic deletion of an arginine decarboxylase (ΔspeA), an enzyme that catalyzes the synthesis of agmatine in the polyamine synthesis pathway, has a reduced capsule. Here, we report the impact of arginine decarboxylase deletion on pneumococcal stress responses. Our results show that ΔspeA is more susceptible to oxidative, nitrosative, and acid stress compared to the wild-type strain. Gene expression analysis by qRT-PCR indicates that thiol peroxidase, a scavenger of reactive oxygen species and aguA from the arginine deiminase system, could be important for peroxide stress responses in a polyamine-dependent manner. Our results also show that speA is essential for endogenous hydrogen peroxide and glutathione production in S. pneumoniae. Taken together, our findings demonstrate the critical role of arginine decarboxylase in pneumococcal stress responses that could impact adaptation and survival in the host.
Host Immune Responses and Pathogenesis to Brucella spp. Infection
Authors: Oliveira Sergio C.
Published: March 2021

Brucellosis, caused by the facultative intracellular bacteria Brucella species, is one the most prevalent zoonoses worldwide [...]
Sea Ice Thickness Retrieval Based on GOCI Remote Sensing Data: A Case Study
Authors: Gu Fengguan , Zhang Rui , Tian-Kunze Xiangshan , Han Bo , Zhu Lei , Cui Tingwei , Yang Qinghua
Published: March 2021

The accurate monitoring and measurement of sea ice thickness (SIT) is crucial for understanding climate change and preventing economic losses caused by sea ice disasters near coastal regions. In this study, a new method is developed to retrieve the SIT in Liaodong Bay (LDB) based on the Rayleigh-corrected reflectance from Geostationary Ocean Color Imager (GOCI) images in the winters of 2012 and 2013. Compared with previously developed SIT retrieval methods (e.g., the method based on the thermodynamic principle of sea ice) using remote sensing data, our method has significant advantages with respect to the inversion accuracy (achieving retrieval skill scores as high as 0.86) and spatiotemporal resolution. Moreover, there is no significant increase in the computational cost with this method, which makes the method suitable for operational SIT retrieval in the global ocean.
EM Model-Based Device-Free Localization of Multiple Bodies
Authors: Rampa Vittorio , Nicoli Monica , Manno Chiara , Savazzi Stefano
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we discuss the problem of device-free localization and tracking, considering multiple bodies moving inside an area monitored by a wireless network. The presence and motion of non-instrumented subjects leave a specific footprint on the received Radio-Frequency (RF) signals by affecting the Received Signal Strength (RSS) in a way that strongly depends on people location. The paper targets specifically the modelling of the effects on the electromagnetic (EM) field, and the related inference methods. A multiple-body diffraction model is exploited to predict the impact of these bodies on the RSS field, i.e., the multi-body-induced shadowing, in the form of an extra attenuation w.r.t. the reference scenario where no targets are inside the monitored area. Unlike almost all methods available in the literature, that assume multi-body-induced shadowing to sum linearly with the number of people co-present in the monitored area, the proposed model describes also the EM effects caused by their mutual interactions. As a relevant case study, the proposed EM model is exploited to predict and evaluate the effects due to two co-located bodies inside the monitored area. The proposed real-time localization and tracking method, exploiting both average and deviation of the RSS perturbations due to the two subjects, is compared against others techniques available in the literature. Finally, some results, based on experimental RF data collected in a representative indoor environment, are presented and discussed.
A Compact LIF Spectrometer for in-Field Operation in Polar Environments
Authors: Palombi Lorenzo , Raimondi Valentina
Published: March 2021

We present a compact laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) spectrometer prototype (SFIDA–405) designed for in-field operation in polar environments. It uses 405 nm excitation to acquire LIF spectra in the 450–930 nm spectral range on a solid surface via an optical-fiber coupled measurement head. The prototype (battery powered; module + measurement head weight: <1.6 kg) is controlled via a military-grade smartphone and has a limit of detection for chlorophyll better than 5 ng/cm2. The instrument was successfully tested during two summer field campaigns in the Arctic (Svalbard Islands) and Antarctic (Southern Victoria Land) regions for studying biological soil crusts. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this represents the first LIF spectrometer used in situ in Antarctica to acquire LIF spectra directly on biological soil crusts. Finally, the paper also suggests the use of the SFIDA–405 prototype for different application fields.
An Effective Algorithm to Find a Cost Minimizing Gateway Deployment for Node-Replaceable Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Choi Sun-Ho , Jang Yoonkyung , Seo Hyowon , Hong Bum Il , Ryoo Intae
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we present an efficient way to find a gateway deployment for a given sensor network topology. We assume that the expired sensors and gateways can be replaced and the locations of the gateways are chosen among the given sensor nodes. The objective is to find a gateway deployment that minimizes the cost per unit time, which consists of the maintenance and installation costs. The proposed algorithm creates a cost reference and uses it to find the optimal deployment via a divide and conquer algorithm. Comparing all cases is the most reliable way to find the optimal gateway deployment, but this is practically impossible to calculate, since its computation time increases exponentially as the number of nodes increases. The method we propose increases linearly, and so is suitable for large scale networks. Additionally, compared to stochastic algorithms such as the genetic algorithm, this methodology has advantages in computational speed and accuracy for a large number of nodes. We also verify our methodology through several numerical experiments.
Rethinking Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability in Light of Economic Performance
Authors: Vărzaru Anca Antoaneta , Bocean Claudiu George , Nicolescu Michael Marian
Published: March 2021

Concepts of ethical behavior and corporate social responsibility have emerged in recent years due to organizations’ increasing ethical problems. Business ethics, social responsibility, and corporate governance are significant drivers for organizational performance, growth, and sustainable development (SD). In this paper, we propose an original tool, at a macroeconomic level, for the integration of concepts such as business ethics (BE), corporate social responsibility (CSR), and corporate governance (CG). The paper also seeks to establish the relationships among corporate responsibility dimensions (CR), sustainability, and economic performance. This research used the Sustainable Development Report 2020, Candriam’s ESG Country Report, World Bank Doing Business 2020 Report, World Bank national accounts data, and Eurostat as data sources. As part of the research, we selected the European Union states (27) plus the United Kingdom. The main results reveal the positive direct and indirect influences of corporate responsibility on economic performance, ultimately leading to sustainable development.
Impact of Industry 4.0 Platform on the Formation of Construction 4.0 Concept: A Literature Review
Authors: Kozlovska Maria , Klosova Daria , Strukova Zuzana
Published: March 2021

In recent years, due to the rapid development of the fourth industrial revolution and new platforms of information technologies, intelligent systems have received widespread attention in many industries and have brought the potential to improve the efficiency of the construction industry. These facts led to the appearance of a new concept in construction industry called Construction 4.0. Therefore, this article seeks to explore the state of implementation of Industry 4.0 technologies in the construction industry and analyze their impact on the formation of the Construction 4.0 concept. In order to achieve the aim of this article, a literature review was conducted using the most relevant publication in this field. Moreover, authors carried out a bibliometric analysis among 195 selected research articles related to the Industry 4.0 and Construction 4.0 to identify interconnections between these concepts. The results show that Industry 4.0 has the greatest impact on productivity growth in construction and that interest in digital technologies is growing every year, but their penetration into the construction industry is currently slow and limited. The authors suggest that further research needs to be focused on future ethical issues that may arise and on synergies between Construction 4.0 technologies.
Effect of Twisted Fin Array in a Triple-Tube Latent Heat Storage System during the Charging Mode
Authors: Ghalambaz Mohammad , Mahdi Jasim M. , Shafaghat Amirhossein , Eisapour Amir Hossein , Younis Obai , Talebizadeh Sardari Pouyan , Yaïci Wahiba
Published: March 2021

This study aims to assess the effect of adding twisted fins in a triple-tube heat exchanger used for latent heat storage compared with using straight fins and no fins. In the proposed heat exchanger, phase change material (PCM) is placed between the middle annulus while hot water is passed in the inner tube and outer annulus in a counter-current direction, as a superior method to melt the PCM and store the thermal energy. The behavior of the system was assessed regarding the liquid fraction and temperature distributions as well as charging time and energy storage rate. The results indicate the advantages of adding twisted fins compared with those of using straight fins. The effect of several twisted fins was also studied to discover its effectiveness on the melting rate. The results demonstrate that deployment of four twisted fins reduced the melting time by 18% compared with using the same number of straight fins, and 25% compared with the no-fins case considering a similar PCM mass. Moreover, the melting time for the case of using four straight fins was 8.3% lower than that compared with the no-fins case. By raising the fins’ number from two to four and six, the heat storage rate rose 14.2% and 25.4%, respectively. This study presents the effects of novel configurations of fins in PCM-based thermal energy storage to deliver innovative products toward commercialization, which can be manufactured with additive manufacturing.
Assessing the Performance and Participation among Young Male and Female Entrepreneurs in Agribusiness: A Case Study of the Rice and Maize Subsectors in Cameroon
Authors: Fani Djomo Choumbou Raoul , Henrietta Ukpe Udeme , Oben Emmanuel Njock , Dzever Donald Denen , Obekpa Onyeje Hephzibah , Nde Auguste Tamba , Sani Mohamadou , Annih Mbong Grace , Martin Dontsop Nguezet Paul
Published: March 2021

The role played by youth in agriculture cannot be overemphasized, while agribusinesses are important generators of employment and income worldwide. Improving the sustainability of food value chains can benefit millions of rural poor people living in developing countries, especially young women. Despite policies and programs aimed at encouraging agricultural entrepreneurs, they are still facing challenges such as high-cost agrochemicals, limited access to credit, price volatility, etc. which seriously affect their capacity to remain in the sector. This study was undertaken to assess the performance and participation of young male and female entrepreneurs. This study made use of cross-section data from a survey conducted on 1019 young agricultural entrepreneurs in Cameroon. The data were analyzed using gross margin, student t-test, and logistic regression. Our study contributes to the literature by showing that young women agribusiness entrepreneurs are as competitive as their male counterparts and that the opportunities for young women in agriculture are good. Incentives such as single-digit interest rates and no collateral security should be directed to young women to receive more credit for purchasing agrochemicals and improved varieties of seed. Furthermore, a price control policy should be set up throughout the year to enable young women earn as their young men counterparts to enable them remain in production and marketing activities.
Towards Personal Financial Sustainability Based on Human Capital Analysis in Korea
Authors: Yu Jaeyong , Lee Gunyoung , Kim Jang Ho
Published: March 2021

Financial sustainability for individuals has become more important due to the increase in life expectancy. In personalized lifetime financial planning, human capital is critical for incorporating the life-cycle of individuals. This study focuses on human capital modeling based on features such as education level and working industry, and presents how difference in human capital can affect the optimal asset allocation. By analyzing the Korean labor and income panel survey data, fixed effects regression was performed to model human capital and a portfolio model that maximizes utility of total wealth is solved to optimize the lifetime financial plan. The empirical results show that individuals with human capital that are more correlated with stocks are advised to reduce allocation in stocks.
From a Society of Knowledge to a Society of Consciousness a Call for Awareness Is on Its Way
Authors: de Hoyos Guevara Arnoldo Jose , Dib Vitória Catarina
Published: March 2021

The convergence of today’s critical sanitary environmental and socio-economic crises is pressing humanity towards a shifting point from which a new paradigm could emerge, where accelerated scientific-technological innovations transforming social relations may enable a leap of conscience with the improvement appreciation of human life conditions and better caring for the planet as a whole, opening for a more fraternal cooperation and sustainability mind set. The crisis is systemic and has moral roots, so the solutions are asking for a change in human values and human consciousness that may already be found in initiatives like a new socio-economic models such as the Economy of Francisco, the Society 5.0 that are emerging and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Moreover, there is already a humanity awareness movement that defines patterns for levels of global consciousness that together with other development systems models may help to follow up the process of the transition from the society of knowledge to the society of consciousness. This close global monitoring would give us chance for a better global and local management showing signs of improvement, and give calls for alerts. This paper presents advances in this direction and shows how the ICT revolution on its way may already give support to collectively on-line monitoring with already existing important synthetic indicators that represent basic sensors for the process, showing what may be the way for the future, and what kind of metamorphose we may be emerging.
Exposure to Triclosan and Bisphenol Analogues B, F, P, S and Z in Repeated Duplicate-Diet Solid Food Samples of Adults
Authors: Morgan Marsha K. , Clifton Matthew S.
Published: March 2021

Triclosan (TCS) and bisphenol analogues are used in a variety of consumer goods. Few data exist on the temporal exposures of adults to these phenolic compounds in their everyday diets. The objectives were to determine the levels of TCS and five bisphenol analogues (BPB, BPF, BPP, BPS, and BPZ) in duplicate-diet solid food (DDSF) samples of adults and to estimate maximum dietary exposures and intake doses per phenol. Fifty adults collected 776 DDSF samples over a six-week monitoring period in North Carolina in 2009–2011. The levels of the target phenols were concurrently quantified in the DDSF samples using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. TCS (59%), BPS (32%), and BPZ (28%) were most often detected in the samples. BPB, BPF, and BPP were all detected in <16% of the samples. In addition, 82% of the total samples contained at least one target phenol. The highest measured concentration of 394 ng/g occurred for TCS in the food samples. The adults’ maximum 24-h dietary intake doses per phenol ranged from 17.5 ng/kg/day (BPB) to 1600 ng/kg/day (TCS). An oral reference dose (300,000 ng/kg/day) is currently available for only TCS, and the adult’s maximum dietary intake dose was well below a level of concern.
Acceptance of a COVID-19 Vaccine in Japan during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Machida Masaki , Nakamura Itaru , Kojima Takako , Saito Reiko , Nakaya Tomoki , Hanibuchi Tomoya , Takamiya Tomoko , Odagiri Yuko , Fukushima Noritoshi , Kikuchi Hiroyuki , Amagasa Shiho , Watanabe Hidehiro , Inoue Shigeru
Published: March 2021

Vaccination could be a key protective measure against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and it is important to understand the acceptability of the COVID-19 vaccine among the general public. However, there is no study on the acceptance of a COVID-19 vaccine in Japan. Therefore, this study aimed to describe the COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and hesitancy situation in Japan and assess the factors associated with such issues. This was a cross-sectional study based on an internet survey completed by 2956 people. Participants were asked to indicate how likely they were to get vaccinated for COVID-19. In addition, the participants responded to questions regarding sociodemographic factors, attitudes, and beliefs regarding COVID-19 infection and vaccination. The proportion of participants with a high likelihood of getting a COVID-19 vaccine was 62.1%. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that vaccine acceptance was lower among several sociodemographic groups, such as women, adults aged 20–49 years, and those with a low-income level. Several psychological factors, especially the perceived effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccine, and willingness to protect others by getting oneself vaccinated, were associated with vaccine acceptance. Our results indicate that the perceived effectiveness of the vaccine and willingness to protect others may play an important role in the acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine.
Pengaruh Suasana Toko/Kedai dan Kualitas Pelayanan terhadap Kepuasan Pelanggan Masakan Ayam Penyet Cabe Hijau
Authors: Wijaya Oriza Silva , Siregar M. Yamin , Amelia Wan Rizca
Published: March 2021

The research aims to find out "the influence of shop atmosphere and quality of service toward customer satisfaction Resto Chicken Penyet Chili Green Medan". This type of research is associative which is a research that is asking relations between two variables. The population in this study is Resto chicken Penyet chili Green Medan.. A total of 3000 customers and using the Slovin formula with significance level 0.1, the number of samples in this study as many as 96 respondents were taken from some customers. Based on the results of T test and F test, the atmosphere of the shop and the quality of service both partially and simultaneously influence positively and significantly to customer satisfaction variables. It obtained the R Square value of 0.485 so that the figure indicates that a 48.5% customer satisfaction (Y) can be explained by the shop's mood factor (X1) and the quality of Service (X2). The remaining 51.5% is influenced by other factors not described in this study.
Pengaruh Kualitas Produk Terhadap Loyalitas Pelanggan Air Mineral Alfamart Pada Toko Alfamart Cabang Cikokol
Authors: Akbar Mada Faisal , Wijoyo Hadion , Wibowo Adhi
Published: March 2021

Alfamart is also one of the mini market stores in Indonesia which also applies the importance of providing the best service for each customer and always tries to understand the products that its customers need and want. By offering various kinds of bottled water products, Alfamart strives to satisfy and provide convenience to each of its customers in making purchase transactions. In this study, researchers used a saturated sampling technique in determining the number of samples. Based on the number of population and the sampling technique used, the number of samples in this study was 75 respondents. Based on the results of the distribution of product quality instruments (x) to 75 Alfamart mineral water customers, it shows that, product quality (x) in mineral water, customer loyalty (y) for mineral water at Alfamart Cikokol Tangerang Branch is currently good. The effect of product quality on customer loyalty of Alfamart mineral water at Alfamart store Cikokol Tangerang branch shows that, the simple linear regression equation Y = 15.42 + 0.39. (x) means that this equation can estimate / calculate the effect of product quality (x) on customer loyalty (y). If the product quality (x) is increased one-by-one, customer loyalty (y) will increase to 0.39 and if the product quality is increased to 10 then customer loyalty will increase to 3.9. The coefficient of determination of the product quality variable (x) contributed 41.90% to the customer loyalty variable (y) at Alfamart Stores Cikokol Tangerang branch. In the hypothesis test t count 7,256 t table 1,993, thus this study proves that "there is a significant effect of product quality on customer loyalty of Alfamart Mineral Water at Alfamart Stores Cikokol Branch"
Gondang Sabangunan sebagai Pengiring Sigale-Gale untuk Menarik Wisatawan di Museum Huta Bolon Kecamatan Simanindo
Authors: Sirait Ruth Olivia , Ginting Pulumun Petrus , Wiflihani Wiflihani
Published: March 2021

This study aims to determine the Gondang Sabangunan performance in accompanying Sigale-gale at the Huta Bolon Museum for packaging tourism performances, impact and government support. The method in this study uses a qualitative descriptive method. The speakers in this study were employees of the Huta Bolon Simanindo Museum, 5 music players, 10 dancers, Simanindo community leaders, and tourists. The data was collected by means of observation, interviews, documentation and literature study. The results showed that the development of cultural tourism through the Gondang Sabangunan performance that accompanied Sigale-gale which is a cultural attraction to attract tourists at the Huta Bolon Simanindo Museum. The tortordi performance of the Huta Bolon Simanindo Museum was held on an open stage in the old village of Huta Bolon. Performances are not sacred but still follow the customary rules of the nigondang such as the number of types of gondang, the rules for requesting the type of gondang, the rules for movement in tortor, clothes and equipment. Another packaging of the show form is the short and dense duration, full of variations, an imitation of the original form. Tourists can enjoy the potential of Batak Toba culture, such as music, dances, historical objects, and the nuances of the Toba Batak village.
Pengaruh Kompetensi, Motivasi Budaya Organisasional Kinerja Dosen Dimediasi Kepuasan Kerja Pada “ MMTC” Yogyakarta
Authors: Supardi Supardi
Published: March 2021

This research is about the influence of competence, motivation and organizational culture on lecturer performance mediated by job satisfaction at "MMTC" Yogyakarta High School. This research needs to be done because performance is a picture of organizational success, not merely the results achieved, also the processes that a person or organization undertakes to achieve its goals. So it is necessary to know how much influence and the direction of the relationship of several factors on the influence of employee performance in an organization, namely competence, motivation, and organizational culture factors that affect lecturer performance through job satisfaction at the "MMTC" Yogyakarta High School, so that it can be input, suggestion and alternative. in human resource management and policy development in improving existing human resource management, especially lecturer performance so that they are ready to compete and excel in their field of study. The subjects of this research are permanent lecturers at the "MMTC" Yogyakarta High School. The results showed that the hypothesis proposed was appropriate to explain that competence, motivation, and organizational culture had a positive and significant effect on the performance of lecturers at "MMTC" Yogyakarta High School. Other results show that competence, motivation, and organizational culture through job satisfaction have a positive and significant effect on the performance of lecturers at "MMTC" Yogyakarta High School.
Peran Musik Tradisi Kelintang Tungkal Sebagai Prosesi Malam Beinai Masyarakat Kampung Nelayan Kabupaten Tanjung Jabung Timur
Authors: Gunawan Indra , Bahar Mahdi , Aulia Defni
Published: March 2021

This study aims to know the role of the Kelintang Tungkal music tradition as a musical tradition that lives and develops in the Kampung Nelayan Sub-District as a form of social integration and a developing musical structure. The structure is seen from the perspective of anthropologogical music, that Kelintang Tungkal was originally used by the community as accompaniment music in medical ceremonies but at this time the ceremony was no longer played because the myth of the local community that rolled the Kelintang Tungkal community had a strong magical element, so that these types of blows may not be made or played anywhere. Then the local community changed the function of the Kelintang Tungkal as an entertainment activity for the local community at wedding parties, welcoming traditional guests and as dance accompaniment music. Most of the data collected in this study were obtained from research on places and performances, interviews, and references related to writing about tungkal latitude, and were analyzed with qualitative approach. This study concludes that there has been a change in the Kelintang Tungkal performance that was originally used for medical ceremonies, because the functional factor of the Kelintang Tungkal performance turned into entertainment.