bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Land value is a progressive and efficient property tax base: Evidence from Victoria
Authors: Murray Cameron , Hermans Jesse Benjamin
Published: November 2019

Property taxes are a common revenue source for city governments. There are two property tax bases available—land value (site value, SV), or total property value (capital improved value, CIV). The choice of property tax base has implications for both the distribution and efficiency of the tax. We provide new evidence in favour of SV being both the more progressive and efficient property tax base. First, we use three Victorian datasets at different levels of geographic aggregation to model the SV-CIV ratio as a function of various household income measures. At all three levels, a higher SV-CIV ratio occurs in areas with higher incomes, implying that SV is the more progressive property tax base. Our range of results suggests that a one percent increase in the income of an area is associated with a 0.10 to 0.57 percentage point increase in the SV-CIV ratio. Second, we use historical council data to conduct a difference-in-difference analysis to compare the effect of switching from a CIV to SV tax base on the number of building approvals and value of construction investment. We find that switching from CIV to SV as a property tax base is associated with a 20% increase in the value of new residential construction. This is consistent with the view that changes to land value tax rates are non-neutral with respect to the timing of capital investment on vacant and under-utilised land, which we also demonstrate theoretically.
PENGARUH PERENDAMAN LARUTAN SULFIT DAN PENGASAPAN BELERANG TERHADAP MUTU KOPRA PUTIH DI KABUPATEN INDRAGIRI HILIR
Authors: bin sugeng rijanto mulono apriyanto
Published: November 2019

Pada umumnya petani kopra di Propinsi Riau melakukan pengeringan dengan pengasapan langsung atau pengeringan dengan panas api. Pada pengeringan ini, kopra yang dihasilkan dibawah standar mutu yang ditetapkan, dengan ciri-ciri : berwarna coklat, berbau asap, kadar air yang cukup tinggi sekitar 15 - 22% sehingga mudah terserangan mikroorganisme. Pada penelitian ini dilakukan perbaikan teknologi pengeringan kopra dengan menggunakan sinar matahari sebagai sumber energi yaitu berupa tunel pengering dengan atap dan dinding terbuat dari plastik terpal kembes (warna biru).Alat pengering dirakit dan dicobakan di Desa Teluk Dalam Kecamatan Kuala Indragiri, Kabupaten Indragiri Hilir, Propinsi Riau pada bulan Oktober-Desember 2018. Penggunaan bubuk belerang tampaknya meningkatkan kualitas kopra diproduksi dan lebih hemat dibandingkan penggunaan batok kelapa sebagai sumber bahan bakar. Penambahan bubuk belerang semakin terbukti kualitas kopra putih.
Review Jurnal
Authors: Chandra Gracia Devina
Published: November 2019

Review Jurnal The Development Digital Economy in Indonesia.
Review of Companies in Indonesia in the Vortex of Global Economic Disruption
Authors: Amanda Aurelia
Published: November 2019

Kemudahan berbisnis di Indonesia masih terhambat oleh adanya penurunan ekspor dan impor sepanjang tahun 2015 hingga 2018, di mana terhambatnya salah satu aktivitas utama dalam perdagangan ini mampu memberi dampak yang cukup besar bagi aktivitas para pebisnis dan perusahaan di Indonesia. Kondisi perekonomian global yang sedang lamban, tertekan, dan tidak seimbang menjadi penyebab utama terjadinya penurunan aktivitas perdagangan tersebut, di mana perekonomian global saat ini berpusat pada kebijakan dan kondisi ekonomi Amerika Serikat sebagai negara paling berpengaruh di dunia. Konflik perdagangan antara Amerika Serikat dan China, geopolitik dan ketidakpastian kebijakan seperti Brexit, dan negara-negara besar seperti Eropa dan China yang mengalami perlambatan pertumbuhan ekonomi mampu memberikan dampak baik langsung maupun tidak langsung terhadap sektor perdagangan di berbagai negara khususnya negara berkembang.
The Lens MetaRecord and LensID: An open identifier system for aggregated metadata and versioning of knowledge artefacts
Authors: Jefferson Osmat Azzam , Koellhofer Deniz , Warren Ben , Jefferson Richard
Published: November 2019

Ambiguity is inherent in the digital records of entities such as patents, scholarly works, human names, or institutions. While we have made some progress to preserve each entity’s one to one relationship using open persistent identifiers, in this contribution, we show how the Lens has used the MetaRecord (MeR) concept along with the open LensID identifier to begin mapping the one to many relationships among these data elements, disambiguating name variants, and organizing contextual metadata.
The airification of cities. Making sense of the impact of peer to peer short term letting on urban functions and economy
Authors: Picascia Stefano , Romano Antonello , Teobaldi Michela
Published: November 2019

An in-depth look into the mechanics of short term rentals in Italy. The study is based on a vast dataset comprising of all the properties listed on the Airbnb website in 10 major cities in the years 2015, 2016 and 2017. We discuss the spatial patterns of Airbnb supply and demand within and between cities, we then hypothesize on the possible drivers of the Airbnb offer and suggest a possible way to assess whether Airbnb supply could be driven by an economic advantage of short-term over long term letting. We also discuss the way the benefits of this particular incarnation of the sharing economy are shared among participants. Finally, we conclude by presenting a possible alternative way of regulating Airbnb.
APPLYING MULTIREPRESENTATION BASED PHYSICS LEARNING TO IMPROVE THE ABILITY OF REPRESENTATION OF STUDENTS IN CLASS X MIPA2 SMA BABUSSALAM PEKANBARU
Authors: Muzdalifah Winda , Irianti Mitri , Maimurni Maimurni
Published: November 2019

This study aims to improve students’ representation skills by applying multirepresentation based physics learning in Class X MIPA2 SMA Babussalam Pekanbaru. This classroom action research is conducted with two cycles where one cycle step consist of planning, implementation of observation and reflection. The subjects of the study were students of class X MIPA2 as many as 33 female students. The data collection instrument is a test of representation ability given to the student at the end of each cycle. The technique of data analysis is descriptive with result of data analysis showed: the ability of representation of students based on the aspect of representation ability increased by 13,69%, while the ability to present representation into four format (graph, image, mathematical and verbal) increased by 10,11%. Thus, it can be concluded that the aplication of physics learning with multirepresentation based can improve the ability of representation of students of Class X MIPA2 SMA Babussalam Pekanbaru.
On Olympic Victors, Ancient and Modern
Authors: Dova Stamatia
Published: November 2019

During the 2016 Olympic games in Rio, the dialogue between the ancient and modern Olympics was enriched by the comparison between Leonidas of Rhodes (crowned 12 times at Olympia from 164 to 152 bc in the stadion, diaulos, and hoplitodromos) and the internationally acclaimed U.S. swimmer Michael Phelps (winner of 13 individual Olympic gold medals from 2004 to 2016). Decided by medal count, the two most decorated Olympic victors of all time seemed to abridge a cultural distance of 2168 years. After reviewing all extant sources about Leonidas of Rhodes, this paper examines three other exempla of Olympic victors, Diagoras of Rhodes (boxing, crowned 464 bc), Ladas of Argos (dolichos [5 km], crowned 460 bc), and Spiridon Louis (Marathon race, 1896 Athens Olympics), with special emphasis on the reception of their victories. In the cases of Diagoras and Ladas, my analysis identifies the analogies between a death sealed by Olympic glory and the paradigms of Tellos and Kleobis and Biton in Herodotos 1.31. The significance of Spiridon Louis’ victory for the nascent modern Greek state is discussed within the framework of the first Marathon race. By revisiting societal attitudes towards distinguished athletic winners then and now, this paper also engages in a discourse on the relationship between the ancient and modern Olympics.
PEMBERDAYAAN ANGGOTA MAJELIS TA’LIM AL-IKHLAS MELALUI KEGIATAN KETERAMPILAM MERAJUT DI DADOK TUNGGUL HITAM PADANG
Authors: Rosha Zeshasina , Wati Linda , Kamela Ice , Ananda Arfan , Dea M Fisti
Published: November 2019

Abstrak: Kecamatan Koto Tangah adalah Kecamatan yang paling padat penduduknya. Kecamatan ini memiliki jumlah penduduk  perempuan yang cukup besar. Pemberdayaan perempuan sangat penting dilakukan untuk memiliki jiwa kewirausahaan dalam mengembangkan ekonomi produktif. Pemberdayaan perempuan untuk meningkatkan akses terhadap pengetahuan dan keterampilan, sehingga dapat meningkatkan kesejahteraan keluarga. Kegiatan pelatihan keterampilan diharapkan berdampak pada kemampuan perempuan menciptakan lapangan kerja. Melalui pelatihan keterampilan merajut,  perempuan dapat menghasilkan produk-produk rajutan yang bernilai ekonomis. Mitra yang dipilih adalah kelompok masyarakat yaitu anggota Majelis Ta’lim Masjid Al-Ikhlas di Kelurahan Dadok Tunggul Hitam Kecamatan Koto Tangah. Sebagian besar ibu-ibu yang bergabung dalam Majelis Ta’lim yang beranggotakan sebanyak 40 orang adalah ibu rumah tangga yang pada umumnya tidak bekerja dan mempunyai penghasilan yang relatif rendah. Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat  telah dilakukan dengan memberikan pelatihan terhadap ibu-ibu anggota  Majelis Ta’lim. Pelatihan yang diberikan adalah membuat kerajinan rajutan tangan. Dalam pelaksanaan kegiatan, para ibu-ibu sangat antusias dalam menyimak penjelasan dan peragaan dari narasumber dan melalui tayangan video. Berbagai model rajutan diajarkan sehingga akan mempermudah mereka dalam membuat berbagai macam rajutan sehingga dapat menumbuhkan semangat berwirausaha dalam meningkatkan pendapatan keluarga.  Abstract: Koto tangah district is the most densely populated sub-district.  This sub-district has a large enough female population. empowering women is very important to have an entrepreneurial spirit in developing a productive economy. Empowering women to increase access to knowledge and skills, so as to improve family welfare. Skills training activities are expected to have an impact on women's ability to create employment. through training in knitting skills, women can produce knitted products of economic value. The partner chosen was the community group members of the al-ikhlas mosque assembly council in dadok tunggul hitam village, koto tangah district. most of the mothers who joined the ta'lim assembly with 40 members were housewives who generally did not work and had relatively low incomes. Community service  has been carried out by providing training to women members of the ta'lim assembly to develop their economy. The training provided is making hand-knitted crafts. in carrying out the activity, the mothers were very enthusiastic in listening to the explanation and demonstration from the speakers and through the video. Various knitting models are taught so that it will facilitate them in making various kinds of knits so as to foster an entrepreneurial spirit in increasing family income.
Rekayasa Elektroda Electrical Discharge Machine Dari Bahan Baku Serbuk Tembaga Dengan Proses Kompaksi
Authors: Alfauzi Abdul Syukur , Purnomo Adhy , Hariyanto Hariyanto , Saada Nur , Tjahjono Bambang
Published: November 2019

Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) adalah proses pembuangan material yang dikerjakan oleh sejumlah loncatan bunga api listrik yang terjadi pada celah antara pahat (elektroda). Pembuatan elektroda EDM salah satunya dibuat  dengan proses metalurgi serbuk (penekanan dan sintering) dari bahan serbuk tembaga. Metalurgi serbuk adalah proses penekanan terhadap serbuk agar serbuk dapat menyatu satu dengan lainnya sebelum ditingkatkan ikatannya dengan proses sintering. Pembuatan serbuk tembaga dapat dilakukan dengan proses pengendapan elektrolisis (electrorefining). Serbuk tembaga kemudian dilakukan proses kompaksi, sintering dan uji kekerasan untuk menghasilkan elektroda EDM yang optimal. Dengan mesin cetak menggunakan tenaga hidrolik yang berkemampuan tekan 6 ton, dapat mencetak bentuk elektroda EDM yang terbaik pada tekanan (P) sebesar 8,8 (MPa), gaya (F) sebesar 60 (kN) dilanjutkan dengan proses sintering dengan temperatur 9000C dan waktu penahanan 1 jam sehingga menghasilkan produk dengan nilai kekerasan 77 (kg/mm2).
Pembuatan mesin Amplas Sistem Sabuk Penggerak Motor Listrik
Authors: Rofarsyam Rofarsyam
Published: November 2019

Rancang bangun mesin amplas sistem sabuk bertujuan untuk melengkapi peralatan uji kekerasan dan metalografi pada laboratorium Teknik Mesin Politeknik Negeri Semarang. Sampai saat ini pengerjakan permukaan benda kerja masih menggunakan mesin gerinda yang ada pada bengkel mesin, sehingga memakan waktu untuk menyelesaikan pengujian baik metalografi maupun kekerasan pada laboratorium pengujian bahan.Pembuatan mesin amplas sistem sabuk dilakukan memodifikasi cara kerja mesin gerinda yang lazim menjadi sistem sabuk berputar. Metode pembuatan mesin dimulai dari mendesain, pembuatan komponen, perakitan, pengujian mesin dan analisa hasil pengujian. Mesin amplas system sabuk yang dihasilkan dengan penggerak motor listrik 0,5 HP, putaran 1400 rpm. Sistem transmisi pemutar sabuk menggunakan reducer 1 : 40 dan sabuk puli. Jenis amplas yang digunakan merk Deerfos 80 Hv. Hasil pengujian pengamplasan dengan mesin ini mencapai kekasaran permukaan N8 sama dengan hasil pengamplasan menggunakan mesin gerinda yang ada pada bengkel mesin. Kapasitas pengamplasan yang dicapai sama dengan kapasitas mesin gerinda sebesar 0,271 mm3/detik.
Kajian Morfologis Nama-nama Nabi Muhammad dalam Al-Qur’an
Authors: Ulya Nabilatul
Published: November 2019

Nabi Muhammad saw memiliki banyak nama. Dan nama-nama tersebut banyak tertera dalam kitab-kitab terdahulu yang dikarang oleh para ulama. Baik itu kitab tentang sejarah nabi, kitab tentang hadist nabi, maupun dalam kitab al-Qur’an. ‘Athif Qosim al-Maliji dalam kitab karangannya “Asma’ Nabi Fii al-Qur’an wa as-Sunnah”, memaparkan nama-nama nabi itu adalah muhammad, ahmad, ‘abdullah, al-ummi, ar-rahiim, al-basyir, asy-syaahid/asy- syahiid, an-nadzir, ad-daa’i ila allah, al-muballigh, al-hanif, al-mahi, rasul al-malahim, al-hasyir, nabi at-taubah, an-nur, as-sirojul munir, al-musthofa, al-mudatstsir, al-muzammil, ath-thahir, al-muthahar, al-muthahir, al-mutawakkal, al-amin, ash-shadiq, thaha, al-jami’, al-wali, al-fatih, al-hadi, shohibul kautsar. Hal ini menarik perhatian peneliti untuk menganalisis nama-nama nabi muhammad saw dalam al-Qur’an dengan kajian morfologi. Morfologi adalah cabang ilmu linguistik yang mengidentifikasi satuan-satuan dasar bahasa yang mempelajari seluk beluk bentuk kata serta pengaruh perubahan-perubahan  kata terhadap golongan arti kata. Dalam linguistik arab, istilah morfologi dikenal dengan ilmu sharaf. Kata sharaf sendiri berarti pemalingan kata yang mengakibatkan perubahan bentuk kata yang berdampak pada perolehan makna, perubahan dan pemalingan kata inilah yang disebut dengan at-tashrif. Hasil dari proses at-thasrif ini menghasilkan wazan atau timbangan yang kemudian menjadi standar dalam pembentukan kata dalam bahasa arab. Seperti  kata عِلْمُ (‘ilmu) yang merupakan bentuk kalimat isim masdar dari kata يَعْلَمُ-عِلْمًا عَلِمَ (‘alima-ya’lamu-‘ilman) dengan bentuk wazan  فِعْلً -يَفْلُ-  فَعِلَ (fa’ila-yaf’alu-fi’lan). Setiap perubahan bentuk dari suatu wazan ke wazan lainnya memiliki perubahan arti. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kualitatif. Peneliti menggunakan desain penelitian library research. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui apa saja nama-nama nabi muhammad saw dalam al-Qur’an. Dan bagaimana bentuk kajian morfologi (shorof) pada setiap nama nabi muhammad saw dalam al-Qur’an.
Manajemen Peningkatan Kompetensi Tenaga Pendidik pada Madrasah Tsanawiyah Negeri Olak Kemang
Authors: Nuraini Nuraini
Published: November 2019

This Study aim to ind out the management of increasing the competence of teaching staff, supporting factors and inhibitors of improving the competence of teaching staff and management efforts to increase the competency of teaching staff at MTsN Olak Kemang, Jambi City. This study uses a qualitative approach, data collection is done by observation, interview and documentation techniques. Determination of research subjects using purposive sampling technique, data analysis techniques carried out by data reduction, data presentation and verification / conclusion drawing, while checking the validity of the data is done by triangulation, talking with colleagues and holding member checks. The results of this study indicate that the management of improving the competency of teaching staff in the Jambi City Olak Kemang Madrasah Tsanawiyah still not optimal, among others: teachers do not fully want to take part in scientific writing training methods, have not attended scientific forums between teachers, are not used to reading up to two hours per day and also rarely visit learning resources and scientific institutions. Some of the supporting factors for increasing the competence of teaching staff in the Olak Kemang State Islamic Primary School in Jambi include: all teachers have S1 qualifications and have obtained certification certificates, efforts to improve the competence of educators can be done in several ways including: S1 advanced education to S2, training profession, taking part in the supervision program, empowering the MGMP, writing scientific journals, conducting research, taking part in an internship program and collaborating with colleagues.
The Dialogue between Christians and Muslims
Authors: SYRJÄNEN SEPPO
Published: November 2019

No abstract available
Die typologische Methode in der religionsgeschichtlichen Forschung
Authors: BIEZAIS HARALDS
Published: November 2019

No abstract available
Biological carbon pump in the ocean and phytoplankton structure
Authors: Pautova Larisa A. , Silkin Vladimir A.
Published: November 2019

The process of carbon transfer from the atmosphere to the ocean floor is determined by three different pumps in nature: a solubility pump, an organic pump and a carbonate pump. The latter two are of biological nature. Phytoplankton is a key mediator of organic and carbonate pumps. Depending on its structure, either an organic pump or a carbonate pump will dominate. The structure of the phytoplankton community is formed depending on the hydrophysical and hydrochemical conditions in the ocean. An important regulator of a biological carbon pump is the intensity of the processes in the carbon cycle, operating in the photic zone. The degree of closure of this cycle depends on the structure of the food chain. The increasing complexity of the food chain by adding organisms of high trophic levels reduces the efficiency of the carbon pump. Conversely, the simplification of such a structure increases the flow of organic carbon to the ocean floor.
Synthesis of dynamic and eco-screening approaches in modeling for ecological risk assessment
Authors: Solovjova Natalia V.
Published: November 2019

The paper proposes a method of mathematical modeling and assessment of ecological risk for marine ecological systems under the combined action of natural, anthropogenic and climatic factors. The method is based on the use of observational data, dynamic models of ecosystem state and probabilistic ecoscreening risk assessments. The main idea and novelty of the method is to take into account the annual variations of ecological risk and substantiates the primacy of determining the magnitude of the allowable risk of ecological systems, and then the allowable intensity of anthropogenic impact. Calculations using the proposed method makes it possible to get answers to questions about the principle of the admissibility of accidents of certain scales. The use of the proposed method for specific ecosystems will help to harmonize ecological and economic requirements to ensure the ecological safety of the development of shelf resources.
Spectroscopy of electron–phonon interaction of superconducting point contacts: experimental aspects
Authors: Bobrov N L
Published: November 2019

The recovering procedure of the electron–phonon interaction (EPI) functions from the additional nonlinearities of the current-voltage curve (I−V curve) of point contacts associated with an excess current is considered. The approach proposed takes into account both inelastic scattering, which causes suppression of the excess current in the reabsorption of nonequilibrium phonons by electrons undergoing Andreev reflection (Andreev electrons), and elastic processes associated with the electron–phonon renormalization of the energy spectrum in a superconductor. The results obtained are systematically expounded for both the ballistic contacts, wherein the second derivatives of the I−V curve in the normal state are proportional to the EPI functions, and inhomogeneous contacts (with dirty constrictions and clean banks), whose second derivatives in the normal state are either free of phonon singularities or weakly pronounced.
THE IMPROVEMENT OF STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT OF MUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT ON THE BASE OF BALANCE-OPTIMIZATION MODEL
Authors: Novoselov Aleksandr , Kovalev Aleksei , Gaiduk Egor
Published: November 2019

In the paper proved is the necessity of using system-based approach and modern mathematic and economic instruments in municipal management to increase the efficiency of management decision-making. Described is the balance-optimization economic-mathematical model that allows optimizing the growth of the key indicators of municipal units. The main instrument of the model is the method of dynamic programming developed by Richard Bellman. Used and projected in the model are the factors included in the list of the key indicators assessing the performance of municipal administration. The model predicts the development in the long run – for the period of 25 years. There is a positive experience with the application of this model for two small towns: Berdsk and Kyzyl. In the paper analyzed are the results of using the model for a large municipal formation – the city of Novosibirsk. Calculations have shown that in general the model may work with actual economic information and yields positive results but along with this it requires being adapted to the size of a municipal entity and the structure of the key indicators of its development.
NEW INTERREGIONAL DIFFERENCES MEASURE MENTTOOLS
Authors: Voronov Yuri , Sviridov Matvej
Published: November 2019

The article proposes new methods of measurement of differences between of RF regions economic development level. Currently, indicators are used for comparison such as mean, median and mode. And the choice of three options is carried out not on formal criteria, but on the basis of general reasoning. The authors propose to build a system of comparisons on the basis of Bregman divergences. They are already beginning to be used when comparing regions by biologists. These measures have not yet been applied in economic analysis. The divergence of Kulback-Leibler
(KL-divergence) is investigated, primarily, the variant of the Bregman divergence. Pairwise comparisons of the level of immigration to the regions as a criterion of quality of measurement of differences are proposed. The main calculations are made on the example of the level of wages in the regions of the South of Western Siberia.
The conclusion is made about the prospects of using the existing variants of Bregman divergence, as well as about the possibility of developing new divergence options that best match the comparative attractiveness of the regions for immigrants.
Target Image Mask Correction Based on Skeleton Divergence
Authors: Wang Yaming , Xu Zhengheng , Huang Wenqing , Han Yonghua , Jiang Mingfeng
Published: November 2019

Traditional approaches to modeling and processing discrete pixels are mainly based on image features or model optimization. These methods often result in excessive shrinkage or expansion of the restored pixel region, inhibiting accurate recovery of the target pixel region shape. This paper proposes a simultaneous source and mask-images optimization model based on skeleton divergence that overcomes these problems. In the proposed model, first, the edge of the entire discrete pixel region is extracted through bilateral filtering. Then, edge information and Delaunay triangulation are used to optimize the entire discrete pixel region. The skeleton is optimized with the skeleton as the local optimization center and the source and mask images are simultaneously optimized through edge guidance. The technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) and point-cloud regularization verification are subsequently employed to provide the optimal merging strategy and reduce cumulative error. In the regularization verification stage, the model is iteratively simplified via incremental and hierarchical clustering, so that point-cloud sampling is concentrated in the high-curvature region. The results of experiments conducted using the moving-target region in the RGB-depth (RGB-D) data (Technical University of Munich, Germany) indicate that the proposed algorithm is more accurate and suitable for image processing than existing high-performance algorithms.
Planning the Schedule for the Disposal of the Spent Nuclear Fuel with Interactive Multiobjective Optimization
Authors: Montonen Outi , Ranta Timo , Mäkelä Marko M.
Published: November 2019

Several countries utilize nuclear power and face the problem of what to do with the spent nuclear fuel. One possibility, which is under the scope in this paper, is to dispose of the fuel assemblies in the disposal facility. Before the assemblies can be disposed of, they must cool down their decay heat power in the interim storage. Next, they are loaded into canisters in the encapsulation facility, and finally, the canisters are placed in the disposal facility. In this paper, we model this process as a nonsmooth multiobjective mixed-integer nonlinear optimization problem with the minimization of nine objectives: the maximum number of assemblies in the storage, maximum storage time, average storage time, total number of canisters, end time of the encapsulation, operation time of the encapsulation facility, the lengths of disposal and central tunnels, and total costs. As a result, we obtain the disposal schedule i.e., amount of canisters disposed of periodically. We introduce the interactive multiobjective optimization method using the two-slope parameterized achievement scalarizing functions which enables us to obtain systematically several different Pareto optimal solutions from the same preference information. Finally, a case study adapting the disposal in Finland is given. The results obtained are analyzed in terms of the objective values and disposal schedules.
Decentralization Policies in Public Administration in Slovakia and the Czech Republic, and Their Impact on Building Offices’ Scale Efficiency
Authors: Fandel Peter , Marišová Eleonora , Malatinec Tomáš , Lichnerová Ivana
Published: November 2019

Decentralization policy schemes (DPSs) in the public sector have been implemented in different ways by Slovakia and the Czech Republic. Both approaches have led to a transfer of competencies from state administration to self-government with the aim of improving the efficiency of the delivery of services. This paper presents a comparative scale efficiency analysis of the units performing services in the building order sector. The analysis is based on two unique regional datasets from two countries, Slovakia and the Czech Republic. The DPS implemented in Slovakia is based on the principle of voluntary cooperation of municipalities. In the case of the Czech building sector, the competencies have been transferred to the newly created municipalities with delegated or extended competencies. This study aims to contribute to the research on efficiency in public administration. We focused on the relationship between two types of DPSs, and units’ scale efficiency. We also tried to determine whether a specific unit scale size could be identified as the most efficient. We employed a two-stage metafrontier approach based on procedures for evaluating program and managerial efficiency. The results show that different DPs have not led to statistically significant differences in performance, and it is not possible to identify the most efficient building office scale size.
Quantile Regression Applied to Genome-Enabled Prediction of Traits Related to Flowering Time in the Common Bean
Authors: Nascimento Ana Carolina , Nascimento Moyses , Azevedo Camila , Silva Fabyano , Barili Leiri , Vale Naine , Carneiro José Eustáquio , Cruz Cosme , Carneiro Pedro Crescencio , Serão Nick
Published: November 2019

Genomic selection (GS) aims to incorporate molecular information directly into the prediction of individual genetic merit. Regularized quantile regression (RQR) can be used to fit models for all portions of a probability distribution of the trait, enabling the conditional quantile that “best” represents the functional relationship between dependent and independent variables to be chosen. The objective of this study was to predict the individual genetic merits of the traits associated with flowering time (DFF—days to first flower; DTF—days to flower) in the common bean using RQR and to compare the predictive abilities obtained from Random Regression Best Linear Unbiased Predictor (RR-BLUP), Bayesian LASSO (BLASSO), BayesB, and RQR for predicting the genetic merit. GS was performed using 80 genotypes of common beans genotyped for 380 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. Considering the “best” RQR fit models (RQR0.3 for DFF, and RQR0.2 for DTF), the gains in predictive ability in relation to BLASSO, BayesB, and RR-BLUP were 18.75%, 22.58%, and 15.15% for DFF, respectively, and 15.20%, 24.65%, and 12.55% for DTF, respectively. The potential cultivars selected, considering the RQR “best” models, were among the 5% of cultivars with the lowest genomic estimated breeding value (GEBV) for the DFF and DTF traits—the IAC Imperador, IPR Colibri, Capixaba Precoce, and IPR Andorinha were included in the list of early cycle cultivars.
Iodine Agronomic Biofortification of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) and Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) Is Effective under Farmer Field Conditions
Authors: Ojok Joe , Omara Peter , Opolot Emmanuel , Odongo Walter , Olum Solomon , Gijs Du Laing , Gellynck Xavier , De Steur Hans , Ongeng Duncan
Published: November 2019

Iodine (I) is an essential micronutrient, which plays a critical role in human metabolism. However, its concentration is known to be low in most soils, making it deficient in crops. With most I agronomic biofortification studies conducted under controlled environments, limited information currently exists on this approach of enriching I deficient crops under farmer field conditions. Two-year field experiments were conducted in 2017 and 2018 to examine efficacy of cowpea and cabbage in the uptake of foliar applied potassium iodide (KI) and potassium iodate (KIO3), each with 0, 5, 10, and 15 kg I ha−1 under farmer field conditions. Results indicate that KI was 34% more efficient than KIO3. Iodine concentration increased with application rate. In cabbage, the lowest I concentration (8.2 mg kg−1) was registered at 5 kg I ha−1 with KIO3 while the highest was 109.1 mg kg−1 at 15 kg I ha−1 with KI. Cowpea registered the lowest I concentration of 531.5 mg kg−1 at 5 kg I ha−1 with KIO3 while the highest (5854.2 mg kg−1) was registered at 15 kg I ha−1 with KI. Therefore, cowpea and cabbage can be effectively biofortified through foliar application of both KI and KIO3 under farmer field conditions.
The Impact of Organic vs. Conventional Agricultural Practices on Selected Quality Features of Eight Potato Cultivars
Authors: Kazimierczak Renata , Średnicka-Tober Dominika , Hallmann Ewelina , Kopczyńska Klaudia , Zarzyńska Krystyna
Published: November 2019

An organic agricultural system based on natural methods and means of production is an alternative to intensive agriculture. The available research suggests that organic crops, in comparison to the conventional ones, are richer in phenolics and other antioxidants while containing less undesirable pesticide residues and nitrates. The aim of this study was to determine concentrations of polyphenols, lutein, vitamin C, and nitrates in eight potato cultivars (Mazur, Justa, Lawenda, Lech, Tacja, Laskana, Otolia, Magnolia) grown organically and conventionally in a controlled field experiment in Poland. Significant differences between potato tubers of the tested cultivars coming from organic and conventional production were identified for the majority of parameters. Higher concentrations of nitrates and lutein were found in conventional compared to the organic tubers, while organic potatoes were, on average, richer in phenolic compounds. Among the tested cultivars, Magnolia, Otolia, and Laskara were richest in vitamin C and phenolics. Otolia and Laskara also accumulated the highest levels of nitrates. If further confirmed, these observations might be of importance for the producers and consumers, who increasingly search for foods from sustainable and well-controlled agricultural systems.
Rice Biofortification: High Iron, Zinc, and Vitamin-A to Fight against “Hidden Hunger”
Authors: Majumder Shuvobrata , Datta Karabi , Datta Swapan Kumar
Published: November 2019

One out of three humans suffer from micronutrient deficiencies called “hidden hunger”. Underprivileged people, including preschool children and women, suffer most from deficiency diseases and other health-related issues. Rice (Oryza sativa), a staple food, is their source of nutrients, contributing up to 70% of daily calories for more than half of the world’s population. Solving “hidden hunger” through rice biofortification would be a sustainable approach for those people who mainly consume rice and have limited access to diversified food. White milled rice grains lose essential nutrients through polishing. Therefore, seed-specific higher accumulation of essential nutrients is a necessity. Through the method of biofortification (via genetic engineering/molecular breeding), significant increases in iron and zinc with other essential minerals and provitamin-A (β-carotene) was achieved in rice grain. Many indica and japonica rice cultivars have been biofortified worldwide, being popularly known as ‘high iron rice’, ‘low phytate rice’, ‘high zinc rice’, and ‘high carotenoid rice’ (golden rice) varieties. Market availability of such varieties could reduce “hidden hunger”, and a large population of the world could be cured from iron deficiency anemia (IDA), zinc deficiency, and vitamin-A deficiency (VAD). In this review, different approaches of rice biofortification with their outcomes have been elaborated and discussed. Future strategies of nutrition improvement using genome editing (CRISPR/Cas9) and the need of policy support have been highlighted.
A Comprehensive Analysis of Runs of Homozygosity of Eleven Cattle Breeds Representing Different Production Types
Authors: Szmatoła Tomasz , Gurgul Artur , Jasielczuk Igor , Ząbek Tomasz , Ropka-Molik Katarzyna , Litwińczuk Zygmunt , Bugno-Poniewierska Monika
Published: November 2019

In the presented research, BovineSNP50 microarrays (Illumina) were applied to determine runs of homozygosity in the genomes of 11 cattle breeds maintained in Poland. These cattle breeds represent three basic utility types: milk, meat and dual purpose. Analysis of runs of homozygosity allowed the evaluation of the level of autozygosity within each breed in order to calculate the genomic inbreeding coefficient (FROH), as well as to identify regions of the genome with a high frequency of ROH occurrence, which may reflect traces of directional selectin left in their genomes. Visible differences in the length and distribution of runs of homozygosity in the genomes of the analyzed cattle breeds have been observed. The highest mean number and mean sums of lengths of runs of homozygosity were characteristic for Hereford cattle and intermediate for the Holstein-Friesian Black-and-White variety, Holstein-Friesian Red-and-White variety, Simmental, Limousin, Montbeliarde and Charolais breeds. However, lower values were observed for cattle of conserved breeds. Moreover, the selected livestock differed in the level of inbreeding estimated using the FROH coefficient. In regions of the genome with a high frequency of ROH occurrence, which may reflect the impact of directional selection, a number of genes were observed that can be potentially related to the production traits which are under selection pressure for specific production types. The most important detected genes were GHR, MSTN, DGAT1, FABP4, and TRH, with a known influence on the milk and meat traits of the studied cattle breeds.
A Case Report of a Botulism Outbreak in Beef Cattle Due to the Contamination of Wheat by a Roaming Cat Carcass: From the Suspicion to the Management of the Outbreak
Authors: Le Maréchal Caroline , Hulin Olivier , Macé Sabrina , Chuzeville Cécile , Rouxel Sandra , Poëzevara Typhaine , Mazuet Christelle , Pozet Françoise , Sellal Eric , Martin Laure , Viry Alain , Rubbens Christine , Chemaly Marianne
Published: November 2019

We report a botulism outbreak in Charolais cattle fed with wheat flour contaminated by Clostridium botulinum type C and the management of the outbreak at each step from the clinical suspicion to the cleaning and disinfection operations. Diagnosis was based on typical suggestive clinical signs and detection of C. botulinum type C using real-time PCR in samples collected from three young affected bulls. All young exposed bulls and cows (18 animals) eventually died, but three young bulls and one cow were recovering when it was decided to euthanize them. C. botulinum type C was detected in the liver of these four animals. Analysis of the ration components demonstrated that wheat flour, wheat, and the mill used to make flour were positive for C. botulinum type C. A dead cat positive for C. botulinum type C was discovered in the silo where wheat grain was stored and was considered the source of contamination. The cat’s entire body was found mummified, well preserved, and not rotting in the silo. Specific measures, in particular, vaccination of the rest of the herd and cleaning and disinfection operations, were implemented to prevent any recurrence of the outbreak. The presence of wild animal carcasses in feed harboring anaerobic conditions like silage, in particular during harvesting, are known to be at risk for the initiation of a botulism outbreak. This outbreak is a reminder that the presence of an animal carcass in feed, regardless of the kind of feed and whenever the contamination occurs, either during harvesting or storage, is sufficient to induce a botulism outbreak.
Assessing Affective State in Laboratory Rodents to Promote Animal Welfare—What Is the Progress in Applied Refinement Research?
Authors: Jirkof Paulin , Rudeck Juliane , Lewejohann Lars
Published: November 2019

An animal’s capacity to suffer is a prerequisite for any animal welfare concern, and the minimization of suffering is a key aim of refinement research. In contrast to the traditional focus on avoiding or reducing negative welfare states, modern animal welfare concepts highlight the importance of promoting positive welfare states in laboratory animals. Reliable assessments of affective states, as well as the knowledge of how to elicit positive affective states, are central to this concept. Important achievements have been made to assess pain and other negative affective states in animals in the last decades, but it is only recently that the neurobiology of positive emotions in humans and animals has been gaining more interest. Thereby, the need for promotion of positive affective states for laboratory animals is gaining more acceptance, and methods allowing the assessment of affective states in animals have been increasingly introduced. In this overview article, we present common and emerging methods to assess affective states in laboratory rodents. We focus on the implementation of these methods into applied refinement research to identify achieved progress as well as the future potential of these tools to improve animal welfare in animal-based research.
Association of HSF1 Genetic Variation with Heat Tolerance in Chinese Cattle
Authors: Rong Yu , Zeng Mingfei , Guan Xiwen , Qu Kaixing , Liu Jianyong , Zhang Jicai , Chen Hong , Huang Bizhi , Lei Chuzhao
Published: November 2019

The heat shock factor 1 (HSF1) gene is a regulator of the heat stress response, maximizing HSP protein expression survival. In this research, we explored the frequency distribution of a missense mutation (NC_037341.1 g.616087A > G, rs135258919) in the HSF1 gene in Chinese cattle with amino acid substitution, valine to alanine. This mutation could be related to the heat tolerance in Bos indicus. A total of 941 individuals representing 35 Chinese native cattle breeds, combining pure taurine (Angus) and indicine cattle, were used to determine the genotypes of the mutation through PCR and partial DNA sequencing. The results showed significant differences in allele frequencies and their genotypes amongst Chinese cattle from different regions. Allele G or indicine-specific allele frequency diminished from south to north China, while allele A (genotype AA) or the taurine-specific allele had a contrary pattern, which agreed with the distribution of taurine and indicine cattle. According to the association analysis, the NC_037341.1 g.616087A > G (rs135258919) of the bovine HSF1 gene, annual temperature (T), relative humidity (RH), and the temperature humidity index (THI) (p < 0.01) were interrelated closely, which indicated that the NC_037341.1 g.616087A > G of the HSF1 gene is associated with heat tolerance in indicine cattle.
Development of a Novel Pharmaceutical Formula of Nanoparticle Lipid Carriers of Gentamicin/α-Tocopherol and In Vivo Assessment of the Antioxidant Protective Effect of α-Tocopherol in Gentamicin-Induced Nephrotoxicity
Authors: Elfaky Mahmoud A. , Thabit Abrar K. , Sirwi Alaa , Fahmy Usama A. , Bahabri Raghdah M. , Al-Awad Eman A. , Basaeed Lamis F.
Published: November 2019

Gentamicin is a potent antibiotic with a nephrotoxicity drawback which limits its use. D-α-tocopherol polyethylene glycol succinate (α-tocopherol) is widely used as a surfactant and have potent antioxidant properties. This study aimed to assess the protective effect of α-tocopherol on gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity by loading gentamicin on nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC). In vivo, the product was administered intravenously to three groups of rabbits (control, gentamicin and gentamicin/α-tocopherol NLC) for 10 consecutive days. Blood was collected on days 1, 5 and 10 to assess renal function. A significant difference in all plasma parameters related to kidney function were observed in the gentamicin group compared to the control by day 5 and 10, confirming the nephrotoxicity effect. On the other hand, the same parameter levels of the NLC group were significantly different compared to the gentamicin group, confirming the protective effect on kidney function. Gentamicin also caused significant decreases in plasma levels of glutathione sulfhydryl (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. However, gentamicin-α-tocopherol NLC significantly elevates both plasma levels of GSH as well as SOD activity. The present work indicates that, loading of gentamicin on NLC by using α-tocopherol, is an innovative strategy to protect against aminoglycoside-induced nephrotoxicity due to its antioxidant activity.
Effect of Marine Bacteria and Ulvan on the Activity of Antioxidant Defense Enzymes and the Bio-Protection of Papaya Fruit against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides
Authors: Chiquito-Contreras Roberto G. , Murillo-Amador Bernardo , Carmona-Hernandez Saul , Chiquito-Contreras Cesar J. , Hernandez-Montiel Luis G.
Published: November 2019

Anthracnose, caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, is one of the most important diseases in papaya fruit. Its control has been achieved with synthetic fungicides, but the application of marine bacteria and the sulphated polysaccharide ulvan (structural description: β[1,4]-D-GlcA-α[1,4]-L-Rha 3 sulfate, β[1,4]-L-IdoA-α[1,4]-L-Rha 3 sulfate, β[1,4]-D-Xyl-α[1,4]-L-Rha 3 sulfate, and β[1,4]-D-Xyl 2-sulfate-α[1,4]-L-Rha 3 sulfate) from Ulva sp. can be an alternative in the use of agrochemicals. Thus, the objective of this study was to assess the effect in vitro and in vivo of two marine bacteria, Stenotrophomonas rhizophila and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, and ulvan in papaya fruit’s bio-protection against C. gloeosporioides. The capacity of marine bacteria to inhibit mycelial growth and phytopathogen spore germination in vitro through volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and carbohydrate competition was evaluated. Fruit was inoculated with bacteria, ulvan, and C. gloeosporioides and incubated at 25 °C and 90% of relative humidity (RH) for seven days. Disease incidence (%), lesion diameter (mm), and antioxidant defense enzyme activity (such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POD) were quantified. In vitro, C. gloeosporioides was inhibited by S. rhizophila and B. amyloliquefaciens. In vivo, disease incidence and the lesion diameter of anthracnose on papaya fruit were significantly reduced by marine bacteria and ulvan. Antioxidant defense enzyme activity played an important role in fruit bio-protection against C. gloeosporioides. The application of marine bacteria and ulvan can be an alternative in the sustainable postharvest management of papaya.
Use of Sieving as a Valuable Technology to Produce Enriched Buckwheat Flours: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Martín-García Beatriz , Pasini Federica , Verardo Vito , Gómez-Caravaca Ana María , Marconi Emanuele , Caboni Maria Fiorenza
Published: November 2019

Fractionation processes based on physical separation are a good strategy to produce enriched cereal flours. Therefore, the aim of this work is to evaluate the suitability of sieving of buckwheat flours to produce protein and phenolic (especially rutin) enriched fractions. Because of that, dehulled whole buckwheat flour (GSTQ) was sieved obtaining fractions with a particle size of 215 µm, 160 µm, 85 µm, and 45 µm (GS215, GS160, GS85, and GS45). For that purpose, the determination of protein, ash, and total starch content and free and bound phenolic compounds was carried out. The highest content of total phenolic compounds was obtained in GS215 (3118.84 mg kg−1 d.w.), followed by GS160 (2499.11 mg kg−1 d.w.), GS85 (989.46 mg kg−1 d.w.), GSTQ (983.15 mg kg−1 d.w.), and GS45 (481.31 mg kg−1 d.w.). Therefore, the phenolic content decreased with the particle size decrease from 215 µm to 45 µm. Besides, there were no significant differences between the total phenolic content in GS85 and GSTQ. The fraction with 215 µm reported the highest protein and mineral salt content and presented rutin amounts four times higher than GSTQ.