bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INTERNALISASI PENDIDIKAN AKHLAK (TUTUR KATA) DI MI MIFTAHUL ULUM DE KONING SCHOOL SEGENTER
Authors: Rizki Puspita , M. Arzani  , Lalu Habiburrahman
Published: December 2023

Penelitian ini didasarkan pada program pengajar yang efektif dalam mengajarkan dan mengkultivasi perilaku berbicara yang baik kepada siswa dalam konteks pendidikan moral. Penelitian ini dilakukan di Sekolah MI Miftahul Ulum De Koning Segenter pada tahun ajaran 2022/2023. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dengan metode deskriptif. Teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini meliputi observasi, wawancara, dan dokumentasi. Wawancara dilakukan kepada kepala sekolah, guru kelas tiga, guru kelas empat, guru kelas lima, dan siswa sekolah dasar. Temuan penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa guru di sekolah MI Miftahul Ulum De Koning Segenter menggunakan banyak metode, antara lain pembiasaan, keteladanan, nasehat, dan hukuman, dalam membina dan menanamkan moral etika bertutur. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa internalisasi pendidikan akhlak di MI Miftahul Ulum menggunakan metode ceramah yang disampaikan dalam kegiatan terstruktur, serta keteladanan akhlak oleh guru.
UPAYA MENINGKATKAN KEMAMPUAN SOSIAL EMOSIONAL MELALUI IMPLEMENTASI PROYEK P5 DI PAUD AL HAMZAR
Authors: Sulhiah  , Rahman  , Juanda Prisma Mahendra
Published: December 2023

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk meningkatkan keterampilan sosio-emosional melalui pelaksanaan proyek P5 dengan budidaya sayuran menggunakan media hidroponik pada siswa Kelas B PAUD Al-Hamzar. Metodologi penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah Penelitian Tindakan Kelas (PTK) dan terdiri dari 2 siklus. Berdasarkan hasil pra tindakan, ditemukan bahwa rata-rata kemampuan sosial emosional peserta didik pada kelompok B PAUD Al-Hamzar Lombok Utara. Nilai awal sebesar 41,89 meningkat menjadi 43,83 setelah dilaksanakan intervensi pada siklus I sehingga terjadi peningkatan skor rata-rata kemampuan sosial emosional siswa. Namun perlu diperhatikan bahwa hanya 4 siswa yang berhasil menyelesaikan intervensi sehingga tingkat penyelesaiannya sebesar 22,22%. Pada siklus II rata-rata skor kemampuan sosial emosional siswa meningkat menjadi 72,61 yang menunjukkan adanya peningkatan yang signifikan (BSB). Sebanyak 12 siswa mencapai nilai ketuntasan, sehingga diperoleh persentase 66,67% (BSB) siswa yang berhasil memenuhi kriteria serta menunjukkan bahwa kelas tersebut telah mencapai standar ketuntasan klasikal. Oleh karena itu, dapat disimpulkan bahwa penerapan metode menanam hidroponik dalam menanam sayuran memiliki potensi untuk meningkatkan kemampuan sosial emosional peserta didik yang tergabung dalam kelompok B PAUD Al-Hamzar.
STRATEGI REKRUTMEN PESERTA DIDIK SEBAGAI UPAYA PENINGKATAN KUANTITAS PESERTA DIDIK DI SMK JAIFAQ SAMPANG
Authors: Siti Farida  , Miftahul Jannah Syarifah  , Zakiyyah Onik , Abdullah
Published: December 2023

Daya saing lembaga menjadi wacana dalam dunia pendidikan, menyadari hal tersebut, SMK JAIFAQ Sampang berupaya melakukan berbagai macam strategi di segala bidang. Berdasarkan data empiris, menunjukkan bahwa jumlah peserta didik di SMK JAIFAQ sejak tahun berdiri 2015 sampai tahun 2022 menunjukkan angka kenaikan yang signifikan. Berdasarkan hal tersebut di atas, maka terdapat dua fokus penelitian dalam penelitian ini, yaitu: bagaimana perencanaan dan pelaksanaan serta hambatan dalam perekrutan siswa di SMK JAIFAQ. Metode penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif yang bersifat deskriptif dan termasuk dalam kategori penelitian lapangan. Sumber data yang diperoleh meliputi wawancara, observasi, dan dokumentasi. Informasi yang diberikan meliputi kepala sekolah, tenaga kependidikan, tenaga pendidik, wali murid, dan siswa SMK JAIFAQ Sampang. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa perencanaan rekrutmen siswa di SMK JAIFAQ telah dilaksanakan sesuai prosedur yang direncanakan. Pihak sekolah melakukan rapat pembentukan panitia PPDB yang dilanjutkan dengan kegiatan sosialisasi kepada masyarakat seperti pembagian brosur dan pemasangan spanduk di perempatan menuju sekolah. Pelaksanaan rekrutmen di SMK JAIFAQ dengan melakukan beberapa kegiatan diantaranya mengaktifkan OSIS, setiap santri diwajibkan membawa 10 brosur yang harus dibagikan di daerah masing-masing ketika libur sekolah serta membuat produk yang hasilnya dijual melalui bazar. Hambatan yang dihadapi oleh SMK JAIFAQ dalam pelaksanaan rekrutmen adalah belum optimal menggunakan media sosial yang dimiliki oleh SMK JAIFAQ Sampang.
EVALUASI ASPEK TEKNIS PERSETUJUAN KESESUAIAN KEGIATAN PEMANFAATAN RUANG LAUT (PKKPRL) SESUAI UNDANG-UNDANG NO. 6 TAHUN 2023
Authors: Fauzan Dzaky , Rachman Taufiqur , Fadly Muhammad
Published: December 2023

Kesesuaian kegiatan pemanfaatan ruang laut (KKPRL) adalah kesesuaian antara rencana kegiatan pemanfaatan ruang laut dengan rencana tata ruang dan/atau rencana zonasi. KKPRL diwajibkan bagi setiap orang atau badan usaha yang melakukan kegiatan pemanfaatan ruang laut di perairan pesisir, wilayah perairan, dan/atau wilayah yurisdiksi secara menetap di sebagian ruang laut. Semua bentuk pemanfaatan ruang laut memerlukan izin dari Ditjen Pengelolaan Ruang Laut. Dalam pelaksanan pengajuan PKKPRL, dokumen yang diajukan oleh pihak pelaku usaha tidak sesuai dengan harapan tim penilai dokumen sehingga siklus persetujuan dokumen membutuhkan waktu lama akibat adanya koreksi yang berulang. Makalah ini bertujuan untuk mensosialisasikan penyusunan dokumen pengajuan PKKPRL sesuai aspek teknis ketentuan UU No. 6 tahun 2023, sehingga akan mereduksi waktu pengajuan dokumen PKKPRL. Dalam pertimbangan kelayakan aspek teknis dokumen yang diajukan, tim penilai membuat data pembanding sebagai parameter penilaian dokumen pemanfaatan ruang laut dengan memberikan masukan/saran terkait peninjauan aspek teknis, sehingga dibutuhkan perbaikan dokumen sesuai persayaratan KKPRL. Hasil akhir pemeriksaan dokumen pengajuan, tim penilai memberikan rekomendasi surat penolakan ataupun penerbitan persetujuan KKPRL.
Improving Service Quality Through the Performance of State Civil Apparatus in Sangir Batanghari District
Authors: Mesra Meslidar , Hariadi Berian
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this research is to find out and describe the performance of state civil servants in improving the quality of service in Sangir Batang Hari District and to find out the supporting and inhibiting factors for the performance of state civil servants in improving service quality in Sangir Batang Hari District. This type of research is qualitative descriptive research. The results of the research show that the performance of state civil servants in improving the quality of services in Sangir Batang Hari District still needs to be improved. Progress in carrying out the work of the state civil apparatus can be seen from the use of technology-based systems. This can make it easier and shorten the time in carrying out services to the community. However, there are still several things that need to be improved in improving the quality of bureaucracy in Sangir Batang Hari District. As an example of an attitude of initiative, smiling and being friendly towards the community which must be further improved by the state civil servants. There is a need to increase the dissemination of information to the public, because so far there are still many people who do not understand the rules of administrative affairs, considering that a lot of time is wasted when people come without bringing complete requirements. Apart from that, it is necessary to complete and improve inadequate facilities and infrastructure, for example the number of computers, work space equipment and waiting rooms. Because if the facilities and infrastructure are inadequate, this will certainly affect the quality of service.
Study of Nanocrystallization Kinetics in Fe 73.5 Cu 1 Nb 3 Si 13.5 B 9 Finemet Type Alloy by Differential Thermal Analysis and Using Different Models
Authors: Roy Pritish Kumar , Sikder Shibendra Shekher
Published: December 2023

The study of the crystallization processes in the FINEMET type nanocrystalline amorphous alloy is interesting not only from the fundamental aspect of establishing reaction mechanism of crystal nucleation and growth, but also from a technological point of view. The process and nature of crystallization phase constitution of nanocrystalline amorphous alloy of composition Fe 73.5 Cu 1 Nb 3 Si 13.5 B 9 prepared by rapid quenching method is investigated in the present study. The amorphous nature of the alloy has been verified by x-ray diffraction (XRD). The differential thermal analysis (DTA) experiments were performed at different continuous heating rates of 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 0 C/min. Two different crystalline phases are observed. The crystallization temperatures, the volume fraction of crystallizations and enthalpies of two different crystalline phases of the alloy have been determined from DTA traces. The dependence of on-set crystallization temperature (T x ) on the heating rate of different phases have been used for the determination of different crystallization parameters such as, the activation energy of crystallization, the order parameter or Avrami exponent (n). The results of crystallization were discussed on the basis of different models such as Kissinger’s approach and modification for non-isothermal crystallization of Matusita in addition to Kolmogorov, Johnson, Mehl, Avrami and Ozawa.
Marginalisation of Women on Caste A Subaltern Study of Chandalika and Draupadi
Authors: Atiquzzaman Sharif
Published: December 2023

The marginalized people of Indian society have been neglected and tortured by the dominating section since time immemorial. The so-called upper-class people labelled them as subhuman untouchables. Although subaltern studies as a critical theory were unknown to Rabindranath Tagore, it will be interesting to review Chandalika from the post-colonial standpoint. The musical drama shows plenty of evidence of subalternity. Prakriti, a low-caste girl, broods over her destiny and curses her mother for giving her birth to an untouchable family. Dopdi, the central character in Mahasweta Devi’s Draupadi also allows us to view the subaltern identity with the hegemonic structures of the society. It’s a story about a santhal woman who organised a rebellion against the local landlords who didn’t allow them to fetch water from their wells for being untouchable. Dopdi, in Devi’s story, Draupadi is a revised and demythicised incarnation of the epical Draupadi. She belongs to a small ethnic group called santhal. In her reincarnation, she is placed within a contemporary historical context, where her present status is described as an activist in the Naxalite movement of the seventies. Mythology is used here as a source and vehicle of hegemonic control over the marginalized ‘other’. This article would be investigating Tagore’s Chandalika and Mahasweta Devi’s Draupadi from the subaltern standpoint, and focus on Tagore’s ideal of humanitarianism and universalism giving a strong espousal to the Doctrines of Buddha. The paper also aims at showing how Mahasweta Devi produces a sense of male-dominated power structure, deconstructive and counter-historical discourse. Referring to the subaltern theory, it will further explore postcolonial issues of subjectivity, marginalisation, and identity formation.
Forest during Formative Years of Human Life: A Reading of Amidst the Pines by Singhal
Authors: Pokharel Bhawana
Published: December 2023

‘Amidst the Pines’ by Kabita Singhal is a memoir that describes her childhood days at a boarding school in Darjeeling namely Kurseong. The school was surrounded by tall pine trees and was situated in the middle of a forest. The author illustrates many literal roles that the forest played during the formative years of her life as a human being. This study deals with some such examples, from the book, that even have a lot of metaphorical implications. More specifically, this paper examines the nature-human relationship that has been depicted by the author, in light of ecocritical consciousness derived through the ideas from the scholars like Greg Garrard, Cheryll Glotfelty, and Patrik D. Murphy and concludes that forest plays a vital role in inculcating the sense of awe, joy, fear, courage, transformation, and rootedness in human beings.
Significance of Co-curricular Activities to be Skilled Manpower: A Case Study on Khulna University
Authors: Chowdhury Shima , Roy Tuhin , Sony M.M. Abdullah Al Mamun , Rashid Md. Mamunur
Published: December 2023

Debates on defining quality education in academia are not new. Nevertheless, most scholars stress out the function of quality education to promote skilled manpower. Upliftment of skilled human resources through confirming standard education largely depends on various academic and non-academic activities. Along with other things, several researchers have highlighted the importance of co-curricular activities like debating, singing, volunteering for development affairs and so on which are sometimes also considered non-academic affairs that can exert a strong influence in ensuring quality education. Contrasting with the earlier studies where the importance of co-curricular activities has got priority, this study is designed to explore how involvement in co-curricular activities has helped tertiary-level students to perform better in professional life. To do so, in a qualitative manner, this study purposively selected some alumni from Khulna University, a promising university in southern Bangladesh, who were actively engaged in co-curricular activities at undergraduate and graduate level. Through the in- depth interviews, this study found that some general soft skills like better team management, critical reasoning, public speaking and presentation skills, organizing ability, pressure management in a critical situation, successful leadership skills, and ability to take risks were acquired through co-curricular activities which had assisted the respondents to perform better in the professional arena. Besides, it was also found that better public relations and social networking skills were also other specific expertise that distinguished the respondents from their colleagues. However, the findings of this study may assist policymakers to undertake the necessary steps in adopting successful policy measures.
Stimulating the Readers through Self-portraits in Biographies, Auto-biographies and Memoirs: Study of Hooks and Dillard’s Narratives
Authors: Gautam Mani Bhadra
Published: December 2023

Biography and Auto-biography make an exposition of closely resembled memories, experiences, identities, embodiment, and agency-based ideas, views, and feelings of an individual. The idealistic explorations of life and lively experiences through narratives stimulate the shrinking nature of an individual with the self-help or the other narratives portrayed in Bell Hooks’s “Talking Back” and “Straightening Our Hair.” Annie Dillard in “The Fixed” narrates human-insects relationship subjects composing the self and stimulating the author’s/narrator’s views to reflect on their past memories to concretize views, ideas and feelings in the practical ground of the real world. Events/incidents exposed in Hooks and Dillard’s narratives based on life, either own or others are examined in this article. Life writers collect information from agencies and self-help writings/materials that also might be in the shadow of identity marker and so it is questioned on the authenticity of life narratives and an autobiographical truth that is to be tested through theoretical applications. Identifying the narrative modes of self-inquiry in different forms of ‘I’ as autobiographical and biographical testimonies in the memoirs is the research objective of this article that helps to find out the gaps and reduce the confusion of readers. Thus, this article tries to study the causes and consequences of stimulating the readers through self-portrait inquisitions in biographies, auto-biographies, and memoirs to which Sidonie Smith and Julia Watson’s ideas are applicable.
Going Global: Scaling the Artificial Intelligence Literacy Course to an International Audience
Authors: Perchik Jordan D , Sotoudeh Houman , Rothenberg Steven A , Tridandapani Srini , Parekh Vishwa , Yi Paul H , Straus Takahashi Marcelo , Trivedi Hari , Smith Andrew Dennis
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in radiology continue to increase every year, however most radiology residencies lack a dedicated AI education curriculum. Fundamental AI education resources are even more sparse for trainees in low- to middle-income countries and under-resourced healthcare systems. The AI Literacy Course assesses the effectiveness and scalability of a free, remote AI education curriculum to increase understanding of fundamental AI terms, methods, and applications in radiology among radiology trainees in the United States and internationally.
Method: A week-long AI in radiology literacy course for radiology trainees was held October 3-7, 2022. Ten 30-minute lectures utilizing a remote learning format covered basic AI terms and methods, clinical applications of AI in radiology by three different subspecialties, and special topics lectures. A proctored, hands-on clinical AI session allowed participants to directly use an FDA-cleared, AI-assisted viewer and reporting system for advanced cancer. Pre- and post-course electronic surveys were distributed to assess participants’ knowledge of AI terminology and applications, as well as their interest in AI education.
Results: A total of 25 residency programs throughout the US participated in the course with participants attending from 10 countries. An average of 150 participants viewed the course per day. Nearly all participants reported insufficient exposure to AI in their radiology training (95.8%). Participant knowledge of fundamental AI terms and methods increased after completion of the course, with an average pre-course evaluation of 8.3/15 and a post-course evaluation of 10.0/15 (p=0.01).
Conclusion: The scalability of the AI Literacy Course demonstrates a viable model to bring accessible fundamental AI education to radiology trainees in the United States and internationally.
Endoscopic Transcanal Stapes Surgery: Our Audiological and Surgical Results
Authors: BORA Adem , SALIK Kazım Tuğberk
Published: December 2023

Endoscopic Transcanal Stapes Surgery: Our Audiological and Surgical Results

Adem Bora, Tuğberk Salık

Sivas Republic University Health Services Application and Research Hospital, Ear Nose Throat Clinic, Sivas, Turkey

ABSTRACT

Aim: The aim of this study is to investigate the intraoperative and postoperative results of endoscopic stapes surgery performed at our institution.

Methods: A total of 25 patients with 28 ears (14 right, 14 left ears) who underwent endoscopic stapes surgery between 2018 and 2022 were analyzed for postoperative hearing outcomes and surgical complications at the 6-month follow-up.

Results: The average age of the patients was 43.16 years (range, 24-63 years), and 64.0% of the patients were female. The median preoperative air-bone gap decreased from 30.36 dB hearing level (HL) to 18.95 dB HL after surgery (P < 0.001). The postoperative air-bone gap was 10 dB or lower in 8 patients (28.6%), 11-20 dB in 10 patients (35.7%), and more than 20 dB in 6 patients (21.4%). Intraoperative complications included only tympanic membrane ruptures in one patient, which resolved during the initial follow-up. Postoperatively, 10.7% of the subjects complained of changes in taste sensation. One patient developed facial paralysis responsive to steroid treatment one week after surgery.

Conclusion: Endoscopic surgery is particularly suitable for stapedial disorders. Endoscopic stapes surgery is minimally invasive and suitable for surgical training, as surgical anatomy can be easily understood, and both the surgeon and assistant can observe the procedure from the same monitor. The operation should only be performed by experienced surgeons due to the need for single-handed operation and the lack of stereoscopic vision.

Keywords: Stapes; Stapedectomy; Outcomes; Endoscopic ear surgery
What Drives Innovation Activities in German SMEs in the Service and Production Sector? An Integration of Theoretical and Empirical Findings
Authors: Triller Marcus , Vogel Dennis , Fellmann Michael
Published: December 2023

Innovation management is an essential prerequisite for the effective and efficient generation, planning, and implementation of ideas and thus for the further development of companies in a dynamic market and competitive environment. In order to investigate the internal innovation potential of production and service companies, this article examines basic success factors and challenges of innovation management in German small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with a view to the sector to which they belong. On the basis of a questionnaire and interviews with experts, companies were considered with regard to their assessment of their innovative capacity. Based on an analysis of data from 30 participants, we show that the innovation capacity of SMEs with regard to success factors and challenges in production companies differs significantly from that of service companies. We also find that there is a discrepancy in the assessment of the potential for improvement of success factors and challenges. Our study shows that in the field of German SMEs, there is no “best way” to increase innovative capacity, but it depends on a combination of different factors.
Determining Critical Success Factors of the Digital Transformation Using a Force-Directed Network Graph
Authors: Pasqual Gianni , Jung Jürgen , Fraunholz Bardo
Published: December 2023

Conducting a digital transformation is one of the major challenges for today’s companies as it is usually associated with a high risk. The reasons for this are manifold. Technologies are still evolving and there is no coherent standard for digital platforms enabling digitalization. Furthermore, it is not only about introducing new technology but also requires a fundamental change in an organization and its culture. Consequently, planning a digital transformation project (or program) requires a careful analysis of the company’s current situation and the envisioned objectives. This article investigates critical success factors for preparing and executing such a transformation. The success factors are identified by conducting a structured literature analysis. 13 scientific papers are identified and then analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. The quantitative analysis is conducted by using force-directed network graphs. Both methods are then compared and discussed. The result shows that most critical success factors are related to the business change rather than to introducing technology. Leadership, strategy, vision, corporate culture, and customer centricity play a stronger role than a digital platform.
Integrating Models of Observing and Observed Activities Based on an Example of Empirical Research in Information Systems Discipline
Authors: Bider Ilia
Published: December 2023

A situation where both observing and observed activities need to be taken into consideration is not uncommon in practice. In Viable System Model (VSM), System 3* is dedicated to making sudden inspections on how the work is done “on the floor”. A typical case in research is an empirical study, where research activities are aimed at understanding the activities of the object under investigation. Though separate models of the observation activity and the observed activity are often presented, having an integrated model that connects both often falls under the radar. This article investigates how the latter model can be built and used in empirical research projects in the Information System (IS) discipline. Articles in the IS field presenting research projects that use data from practice, as a rule, describe the practice and research process, including which research methods have been used for obtaining and analyzing the data. Some articles present models of practice under investigation using appropriate modeling notations. Some articles present a research process in some graphical form. However, to the best of our knowledge, there is no established practice of presenting a model that interconnects practical and research activities. This article tries to fill the gap, and it presents some ideas on how to build a model that integrates observing and observed activities. Such a model can be used for planning a research project and to better understand the limitations of the approaches used or to be used in the project.
Response of Combined Application of Nutrient Levels with Microbial Strains on Crop Growth, Nodulation and Yield of Soybean
Authors: Solanki Kavita , Choudhary S. K. , Singh Ankit , Maurya Shraddha , Shukla Shwetank , Yadav Sandeep , Anshuman Kumar , Singh R. D.
Published: December 2023

The study focused to investigate the ‘Response of combined application of nutrient levels with microbial strains on crop growth, nodulation and yield of soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill.)’ at All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Integrated Farming System Research at College of Agriculture, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India during kharif, 2019-20. The research was conducted in randomized block design (RBD) with 8 treatments, viz. Control with 75% RDF (T1), Control with 100% RDF (T2), 75% RDF with Bacillus megaterium and Bacillus mucilaginosus  strains as seed treatment (T3), 100% RDF with Bacillus megaterium and Bacillus mucilaginosus  strains as seed treatment (T4), 75% RDF with Bacillus megaterium and Bacillus mucilaginosus  strains as foliar application at 30 and 45 DAS (T5), 100% RDF with Bacillus megaterium and Bacillus mucilaginosus  strains as foliar application at 30 and 45 DAS (T6), 75% RDF with Bacillus megaterium and Bacillus mucilaginosus  strains as seed treatment + foliar application of Bacillus megaterium and Bacillus mucilaginosus  strains at 30 and 45 DAS (T7) and 100% RDF with Bacillus megaterium and Bacillus mucilaginosus  strains as seed treatment + foliar application of Bacillus megaterium and Bacillus mucilaginosus  strains at 30 and 45 DAS (T8). The seed yield of soybean increased to the tune of 14.26 and 19.72 per cent with application of 100% RDF with Bacillus megaterium and Bacillus mucilaginosus strains as seed treatment + foliar application of Bacillus megaterium and Bacillus mucilaginosus strains at 30 and 45 DAS compared to control. Among all the treatments, crop growth and yield (1139 kg/ha) were observed highest with 100% RDF with Bacillus megaterium and Bacillus mucilaginosus strains as seed treatment + foliar application of Bacillus megaterium and Bacillus mucilaginosus strains at 30 and 45 DAS.
Morphological and Molecular Identification of the Pathogen Associated with Pink Disease of Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) in the Nawa Region of Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Klotioloma Coulibaly , Brahima Camara , Françoise Dibi-Gogbé , Sahin Guiraud Brigitte , Norbert Kouame N’Dri , Jacque Acka Kotaix , Pierre N’guessan Walet , Gnion Mathias Tahi , Daouda Kone , François N’guessan Kouamé , Kouassi Allou
Published: December 2023

Pink cocoa disease, long considered a minor disease in ivorian cocoa farming, has become a major problem for cocoa production, especially in the Nawa region (Soubre), one of the main cocoa-producing areas in Côte d'Ivoire. The disease is characterized by the appearance of spots on infected branches, with fruiting bodies color white to salmon, and red to brownish lesion under the bark of the attacked trunk or branch. When attacks are severe, they cause cankers, leading to defoliation and death of the tree. In Côte d'Ivoire, no studies have yet been carried out on this disease. This study was therefore carried out in this region in order to identify the pathogen. Thirteen (13) farms in three localities of the region were surveyed, and 03 samples of infected organs were collected from each infected plot. Nine isolates were characterized on the basis of morphological characteristics (mycelial growth, color and size of conidia) and molecular characteristics (PCR-sequencing tests) using universal primers (ITS1 and ITS4). The results revealed morphotypes characterized by striated, radiated, sparse or cottony facies, with an average growth rate of 10.70 ± 3.20 mm/d. Alignment of the ITS rDNA sequences of these isolates against Erythricium salmonicolor sequences available in GenBank identified them as Erythricium salmonicolor, with a similarity rate ranging from 92 to 100%. In addition, phylogenetic analysis of E. salmonicolor strains revealed low genetic diversity. This study therefore provides a basis for further research into the pink disease of cocoa in Côte d'Ivoire.
Techno-Economic Assessment of Distributed Generation in Nigeria’s Low Voltage Distribution Network
Authors: Mary Ikopbo , Nseobong Okpura , Udofia Kufre M.
Published: December 2023

The availability of a good power supply is said to be essential for achieving sustainable development in the majority of developing countries. Huge capital expenditures are necessary to achieve a consistent electricity supply, mostly for grid development. In order to achieve a reliable power supply, this research, titled "Techno-Economic Assessment of Distributed Generation (DG) in Nigeria’s Low-Voltage Distribution Network," aims to integrate a flexible energy mix at the household level. This was achieved by the development of an energy assessment template through computation using ratings of typical electrical devices contained in a three-bedroom flat in Nigeria. The information obtained was aggregated with field data obtained from household energy audit as well as energy band data collected from the power utility company. The optimal energy mix based on formulated algorithm comprised of photovoltaic (PV) system with capacity of 12.7 kW, a petrol generator with capacity of 15 kW, a converter with capacity of 12 kW, and 16 units of batteries (eight connected in series and two connected in parallel) with a nominal optimal hybrid capacity of 15.89 kWh. However, the HOMER Pro software's optimization results revealed that the planned size of PV panels, batteries, and the supply from the public power utility company were adequate for the load. The net present cost, cost of electricity, and operating costs of the proposed hybrid system obtained was $23,714, $0.308 kWh, and $700 per year, respectively. The proposed template is suitable and adaptable to any desired grid size.
Exhaust Emission Assessment of Haulage Trucks at Onne Port, Nigeria
Authors: Tajudeen Dosumu, Tijani , Ugwoha Ejikeme , Omowunmi Blessing
Published: December 2023

Haulage trucks are among the primary causes of air pollution in urban areas. The effect of air pollution caused by transportation, especially freight transportation, on public health is a major concern globally. In this study, emissions of haulage trucks operating at Onne Port, Rivers State in Nigeria were assessed to understand their contribution to local air pollution and environmental impact. Real-time measurements of air pollutants were taken using a portable Testo 350 Analyzer and a portable IGRESS Intelligent Detector from seventy (70) haulage trucks at Onne Port grouped according to production years, region of origin, and truck length, and the data obtained were compared with the World Health Organization (WHO) air quality standards. The results revealed that the trucks’ emissions exceeded WHO limits for six criteria pollutants, including NO2, SO2, CO, PM1, PM2.5, and PM10, which are associated with adverse health effects such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Other notable findings included higher concentrations of NO2 at 35.48 ppm and PM2.5 at 300.73 µg/m3 from trucks produced between 2011 and 2021, while older trucks exhibited increased emissions of SO2 at 31.16 ppm, CO at 775.87 ppm, PM1 at 216.75 µg/m3, and PM10 at 341.75 µg/m3. There were no significant variations in pollutant emission concentrations observed within the four categories across different production years. Trucks manufactured in Asia consistently emitted lower pollutant concentrations compared with those from other regions, suggesting the influence of varying emission standards. Interestingly, truck length did not significantly impact emission levels. These findings underscore the urgency of addressing the air quality issues associated with haulage trucks in the region, highlighting the need for stringent emissions control measures.
Building flexible and robust analysis frameworks for molecular subtyping of cancers
Authors: Pedersen Christina Bligaard , Campos Benito , Rene Lasse , Wegener Helene Scheel , Krishnan Neeraja M. , Panda Binay , Vitting‐Seerup Kristoffer , Rossing Maria , Bagger Frederik Otzen , Olsen Lars Rønn
Published: December 2023

Molecular subtyping is essential to infer tumor aggressiveness and predict prognosis. In practice, tumor profiling requires in‐depth knowledge of bioinformatics tools involved in the processing and analysis of the generated data. Additionally, data incompatibility (e.g., microarray versus RNA sequencing data) and technical and uncharacterized biological variance between training and test data can pose challenges in classifying individual samples. In this article, we provide a roadmap for implementing bioinformatics frameworks for molecular profiling of human cancers in a clinical diagnostic setting. We describe a framework for integrating several methods for quality control, normalization, batch correction, classification and reporting, and develop a use case of the framework in breast cancer.
Fatty acid synthase (FASN) signalome: A molecular guide for precision oncology
Authors: Menendez Javier A. , Cuyàs Elisabet , Encinar Jose Antonio , Vander Steen Travis , Verdura Sara , Llop‐Hernández Àngela , López Júlia , Serrano‐Hervás Eila , Osuna Sílvia , Martin‐Castillo Begoña , Lupu Ruth
Published: December 2023

The initial excitement generated more than two decades ago by the discovery of drugs targeting fatty acid synthase (FASN)‐catalyzed de novo lipogenesis for cancer therapy was short‐lived. However, the advent of the first clinical‐grade FASN inhibitor (TVB‐2640; denifanstat), which is currently being studied in various phase II trials, and the exciting advances in understanding the FASN signalome are fueling a renewed interest in FASN‐targeted strategies for the treatment and prevention of cancer. Here, we provide a detailed overview of how FASN can drive phenotypic plasticity and cell fate decisions, mitochondrial regulation of cell death, immune escape and organ‐specific metastatic potential. We then present a variety of FASN‐targeted therapeutic approaches that address the major challenges facing FASN therapy. These include limitations of current FASN inhibitors and the lack of precision tools to maximize the therapeutic potential of FASN inhibitors in the clinic. Rethinking the role of FASN as a signal transducer in cancer pathogenesis may provide molecularly driven strategies to optimize FASN as a long‐awaited target for cancer therapeutics.
Model‐free based adaptive finite time control with multilayer perceptron neural network estimation for a 10 DOF lower limb exoskeleton
Authors: Kenas Farid , Saadia Nadia , Ababou Amina , Ababou Noureddine
Published: December 2023

This article presents a Model‐Free Adaptive Nonsingular Fast Terminal Sliding Mode Controller with Super Twisting and Multi‐Layer Perceptron (MLP) neural network for motion control of a 10 DOFs lower limb exoskeleton used in rehabilitation. The proposed controller employs a second‐order ultra‐local model to replace the complex dynamics of the exoskeleton and uses an MLP neural network to estimate the lumped disturbance of the ultra‐local model. To ensure accurate tracking of the desired trajectory and address the estimation errors of the MLP, an Adaptive Nonsingular Fast Terminal Sliding Mode Controller is introduced. Moreover, a Super Twisting approach is employed to eliminate the chattering phenomenon. The system's stability is analyzed using Lyapunov theory, and the desired trajectories are obtained from surface electromyography (EMG) signal measurements. The effectiveness of the proposed controller is validated through co‐simulation experiments using SolidWorks, Simscape Multibody, and MATLAB/Robotics Toolbox. Results demonstrate significant improvements in stability and precision compared to existing model‐free controllers.
Self‐Adhesive, Detach‐on‐Demand, and Waterproof Hydrophobic Electronic Skins with Customized Functionality and Wearability
Authors: Tan Di , Xu Bingang , Chung King Yan , Yang Yujue , Wang Qian , Gao Yuanyuan , Huang Junxian
Published: December 2023

The interfacial design of the electronic skins (E‐skins), which are increasingly crucial in areas like exercise monitoring, healthcare, etc., has a great impact on wearability and functions. The adhesion between E‐skin and human skin serves as the foundation for various functionalities. In addition to robust adhesion strength, detaching‐on‐demand, and waterproof abilities are also important for long‐time wearing and comfort detachment after use. Here, self‐adhesive, detach‐on‐demand, and waterproof hydrophobic E‐skins (PBIA) by copolymerization of acrylates with conductive ionic liquid and adhesive components as the strain sensor and triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is developed. The strong van der Waals self‐adhesion (shear adhesion of ≈574 kPa, peeling adhesion of ≈110 N m−1), and waterproof abilities under immersing, flushing, and penetrating situations enable the E‐skin to realize stable and long‐time monitoring for body motions in both the resistance sensing and TENG modes. Meanwhile, the easy detach‐on‐demand ability of van der Waals adhesion (574 to 35 kPa and 110 to 7 N m−1) guarantees the easy and comfortable detachment of PBIA after use, avoiding pain or injury to the skin. The adhesion strategy of PBIA can be expanded to other kinds of E‐skins and accelerate the pace of practical applications of E‐skins.
The Molecular Basis of Human ALKBH3 Mediated RNA N1‐methyladenosine (m1A) Demethylation
Authors: Zhang Lin , Duan Hong‐Chao , Paduch Marcin , Hu Jingyan , Zhang Chi , Mu Yajuan , Lin Houwen , He Chuan , Kossiakoff Anthony A. , Jia Guifang , Zhang Liang
Published: December 2023

N1‐methyladenosine (m1A) is a prevalent post‐transcriptional RNA modification, and the distribution and dynamics of the modification play key epitranscriptomic roles in cell development. At present, the human AlkB Fe(II)/α‐ketoglutarate‐dependent dioxygenase family member ALKBH3 is the only known mRNA m1A demethylase, but its catalytic mechanism remains unclear. Here, we present the structures of ALKBH3‐oligo crosslinked complexes obtained with the assistance of a synthetic antibody crystallization chaperone. Structural and biochemical results showed that ALKBH3 utilized two β‐hairpins (β4‐loop‐β5 and β′‐loop‐β′′) and the α2 helix to facilitate single‐stranded substrate binding. Moreover, a bubble‐like region around Asp194 and a key residue inside the active pocket (Thr133) enabled specific recognition and demethylation of m1A‐ and 3‐methylcytidine (m3C)‐modified substrates. Mutation of Thr133 to the corresponding residue in the AlkB Fe(II)/α‐ketoglutarate‐dependent dioxygenase family members FTO or ALKBH5 converted ALKBH3 substrate selectivity from m1A to N6‐methyladenosine (m6A), as did Asp194 deletion. Our findings provide a molecular basis for understanding the mechanisms of substrate recognition and m1A demethylation by ALKBH3. This study is expected to aid structure‐guided design of chemical probes for further functional studies and therapeutic applications.
Carboxylated Hexagonal Boron Nitride/Graphene Configuration for Electrosynthesis of High‐Concentration Neutral Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Song Zhixin , Chi Xiao , Dong Shu , Meng Biao , Yu Xiaojiang , Liu Xiaoling , Zhou Yu , Wang Jun
Published: December 2023

The electrosynthesis of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) via two‐electron (2e−) oxygen (O2) reduction reaction (ORR) has great potential to replace the traditional energy‐intensive anthraquinone process, but the design of low‐cost and highly active and selective catalysts is greatly challenging for the long‐term H2O2 production under industrial relevant current density, especially under neutral electrolytes. To address this issue, this work constructed a carboxylated hexagonal boron nitride/graphene (h‐BN/G) heterojunction on the commercial activated carbon through the coupling of B, N co‐doping with surface oxygen groups functionalization. The champion catalyst exhibited a high 2e− ORR selectivity (>95 %), production rate (up to 13.4 mol g−1 h−1), and Faradaic efficiency (FE, >95 %). The long‐term H2O2 production under the high current density of 100 mA cm−2 caused the cumulative concentration as high as 2.1 wt %. The combination of in situ Raman spectra and theoretical calculation indicated that the carboxylated h‐BN/G configuration promotes the adsorption of O2 and the stabilization of the key intermediates, allowing a low energy barrier for the rate‐determining step of HOOH* release from the active site and thus improving the 2e− ORR performance. The fast dye degradation by using this electrochemical synthesized H2O2 further illustrated the promising practical application.
Effect of N–Ni coordination bond on the electrical and thermal conductivity of epoxy resin/nickel‐coated graphite
Authors: Zhang Ziyi , Zhang Fan , Du Junwei , Hu Shengfei
Published: December 2023

The agglomeration of nickel‐coated graphite (NCG) in epoxy resin (EP) composites leads to low electrical conductivity of EP composites, which limits their development in electronic devices and multilayer circuits. In order to improve the electrical and thermal conductivity of NCG/EP composites, ethylenediamine (EDA) was used to modify NCG and compared with pure NCG‐filled EP composites. It was found that the conductive effect of modified composites with 20 wt% filler is better than that of unmodified composites with 40 wt% filler. The results of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis of EDA‐modified NCG (ENCG) showed that a coordination adsorption reaction occurred between EDA and NCG, forming N–Ni coordination bonds. When the filling amount of ENCG was 40 wt%, the conductivity and thermal conductivity of the composite are improved most significantly. The volume resistivity was reduced from 2.636 to 0.109 Ω cm, a decrease of 95.85%, and the thermal conductivity was improved from 0.517 to 0.968 W/(m K), an increase of 87.23%, respectively. Meanwhile, ENCG has better dispersion in the EP matrix than NCG.
Market analysis of carbon fiber production with reference to the oxidation ovens used
Authors: Pohlkemper Felix , Rolfes Simon , Bouhrara Mohamed , Röding Tim , Gries Thomas
Published: December 2023

An important process step in carbon fiber production is the stabilization of the pan precursor fiber, which makes it infusible and incombustible. This article gives a market overview of the carbon fiber producers relating to their used oxidations oven and of market of oxidations oven itself. All six industrially available oxidation oven types are described and an overview of the oven supplier is given. The analysis of the oxidation oven market shows that only three out of six oxidation oven technologies are used for large‐volume production. CtE is currently the most widely used oven technology with approximately 55%. Since 2014, CF demand has been growing faster than the expansion of production capacities. A shortage is predicted within the next 5 years. In addition, the production capacities of existing CF lines have stagnated at an average of 1.5 kt*a−1 since the last 10 years. To meet the increasing CF demand in the coming years, various options are available: (1) Increasing large‐tow production, (2) Increasing process speed (3) Increasing the loading factor (4) Increasing with of oxidation oven.
Recent Progress in Janus Nano‐Objects with Asymmetric Polymer Brushes
Authors: Liu Jingye , Tang Kailin , Wang Mian , Shen Chen , Deng Renhua
Published: December 2023

Over the past few decades, Janus materials have drawn much interest owing to the combination of two different functionalities on the opposite sides. Janus nano‐objects (JNOs) with asymmetric polymer brushes are one unique material of them, which consist of a polymeric or inorganic core and asymmetric polymer chains coated on the core. Combining the properties of nanomaterials, asymmetric structures and flexible polymer brushes, hairy JNOs have shown great potential in interfacial compatibilization, interfacial catalysis, oil‐water separation and drug delivery. This review summarizes recent progress in the preparation strategies of JNOs with asymmetric polymer brushes via self‐assembly or grafting strategies, as well as their applications in interfacial engineering, biomedicine and other aspects. Finally, the outlook and challenges of this direction are discussed.
Protein kinase CK2: An emerging regulator of cellular metabolism
Authors: Deng Huilin , Rao Xinrui , Zhang Sijia , Chen Leichong , Zong Yan , Zhou Rui , Meng Rui , Dong Xiaorong , Wu Gang , Li Qianwen
Published: December 2023

The protein kinase casein kinase 2 (CK2) exerts its influence on the metabolism of three major cellular substances by phosphorylating essential protein molecules involved in various cellular metabolic pathways. These substances include hormones, especially insulin, rate‐limiting enzymes, transcription factors of key genes, and cytokines. This regulatory role of CK2 is closely tied to important cellular processes such as cell proliferation and apoptosis. Additionally, tumor cells undergo metabolic reprogramming characterized by aerobic glycolysis, accelerated lipid β‐oxidation, and abnormally active glutamine metabolism. In this context, CK2, which is overexpressed in various tumors, also plays a pivotal role. Hence, this review aims to summarize the regulatory mechanisms of CK2 in diverse metabolic pathways and tumor development, providing novel insights for the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of metabolism‐related diseases and cancers.
Complex lymphatic anomalies: Challenging diagnostic considerations
Authors: Kothandaraman Venkatraman , Wisener John , Helgerson Paul W.
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

Diagnosis of complex lymphatic anomalies can be difficult, and biopsies can be associated with significant morbidity. Mediastinal masses with features such as osseous involvement warrant thorough noninvasive evaluation prior to biopsy.
Evaluation of vascular graft infection following Bentall surgery using 18F‐FDG PET/CT scan: A pediatric case report
Authors: Alavi Mehrosadat , Abdinejad Maryam , Rezaei Mehdi , Moaref Alireza
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

After a Bentall surgery, there is a small chance of developing a serious complication called vascular graft infection. 18F‐FDG PET/CT, a new and accurate diagnostic tool, can help detect it early, especially if the symptoms are unusual.

A 14‐year‐old boy who had undergone Bentall surgery 1 year prior presented with symptoms of fever, chills, loss of appetite, and weight loss over the course of a month. The initial Bentall surgery was performed due to an aneurysm of the thoracic aorta, along with severe aortic valve insufficiency and moderate aortic valve stenosis. The patient was referred to the PET/CT department for evaluation of possible endarteritis or infection of Dacron graft, which had been reported in trans‐esophageal echocardiography as suspicious findings. Despite normal blood tests, blood cultures, and other imaging modalities, the 18F‐FDG PET/CT confirmed the diagnosis of vascular graft infection. This diagnostic tool allowed for timely and appropriate treatment and prevention of possible complications.