bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effectiveness of direct sowing technology in the cultivation of spring wheat in the conditions of the forest-steppe zone of the Volga region
Authors: Toigildin Aleksander , Podsevalov Mikhail , Ayupov Denis , Syromyatnikov Valery
Published: November 2020

The article presents the results of the effectiveness studies of No-till technology on chernozem in a typical forest-steppe zone of the Volga region. Research has shown that No-till technology provides water, agrophysical and agrochemical properties of soil that are favourable for plant growth while effectively controlling weeds. There is also a tendency to increase the yield and product quality. According to our estimates, direct sowing increases the yield of spring wheat grain by 0.5 kg/ha, the mass fraction of gluten from 13.6% to 15.0%, the mass fraction of protein from 11.0% to 11.6% in comparison with traditional technology.
Optimization of the hopper design parameters with a controlled technological process of loading, storage and unloading of bulk materials
Authors: Prusov Maxim , Kurdyumov Vladimir , Pavlushin Andrey
Published: November 2020

The subject of the study is the process of loading capacities and bodies of vehicles to increase the usable volume and static load for further storage or transportation. Based on an analysis of the mechanization of loading operations at agricultural facilities related to the production, distribution and use of animal feed, the authors identified the most promising loading scheme based on the principle of intensive dispersed flow, outlined ways to improve the loading of grain materials and animal feed, proposed a new structural and technological scheme of a loading device with a drive using the gravitational flow of bulk material to evenly distribute the flow of bulk material over a significant cross-sectional area of the tank. The article presents theoretical studies of the loading process using the proposed device and substantiates its geometric parameters. There are results of experimental studies that confirm theoretical conclusions and allow comparing the proposed device with existing analogues.
Vectors for the development of high-tech industrial aquaculture
Authors: Romanova E. M. , Romanov V. V. , Lyubomirova V. N. , Shadieva L. A. , Shlenkina T. M.
Published: November 2020

The article discusses the prospects of optimizing the technology of growing African catfish in high-tech industrial aquaculture. The goal was to determine the range of biologically active substances that can increase the productivity, organoleptic qualities of fish grown in recirculating aquaculture systems and optimize their living conditions. For this purpose, a complex of biologically active substances was tested, including probiotics, prebiotics, amino acids, and natural sorbents. It was introduced into feed and added to the water of fish tanks. Studies have shown that the developed complex of biologically active substances accelerates growth and development, guarantees the growth of fish biomass, reduces the level of bacterial pollution of the fish habitat, and normalizes hydrochemical parameters in the tanks. Improving the technology of fish farming in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) involves changing the ideology of feeding and keeping fish. The results of our studies show that, under conditions of artificial breeding in RAS, it is necessary to use cultures of living microorganisms probiotics that improve intestinal microbiocenosis in fish feeding and introduce them into the fish habitat. Probiotics should be used with prebiotics containing vitamin-amino acid complexes that stimulate the development of symbiotic microbiota. The use of natural sorbents plays an important role. The proposed set of ingredients increases the organoleptic qualities of fish. The studies were supported by the Russian Foundation for Basic Research with grant 18-016-00127.
Staffing of agrarian economy: challenges and solutions
Authors: Fassakhova G. R. , Nezhmetdinova F. T. , Sharypova N. Kh. , Hamidullin N. N.
Published: November 2020

Today there are serious difficulties in staffing of agricultural economy. The article analyzes the reasons for the decline in the level of staffing in this sphere. There are objective factors that are associated with the urbanization process at the global and regional levels. In Russia this is accompanied by the change in t social expectations of rural youth. At the same time, there is still a rather high need for staffing in specific sectors of agriculture. It is obvious that with the introduction of digital technologies and modern agrobiotechnologies, automation and robotization of agricultural sector, the list of specialties and competencies of agricultural workers will expand. The authors pay due attention to the problems of employment of graduates of agricultural universities. As an example of a positive solution to this problem, the issues of organizing employment of graduates of Kazan State Agrarian University (KSAU) are considered. The authors believe that the paper will be useful to the heads of agro-industrial complex and agricultural universities in the further development of theoretical and practical issues of agricultural sector staffing.
Effectiveness of silicon-containing additives in poultry feeding
Authors: Andreyenko Lyudmila , Nikolaev Sergey , Karapetyan Angela , Vorontsova Elena , Kornilova Elena
Published: November 2020

The scientists of the Volgograd State Agrarian University and Samara State Agrarian University carried out research on the use of bio-soluble silicon form as a part of the «NaBiKat» additive in various concentrations in the rations of pullets and egg-laying hens in conditions of the Volgograd region at the facilities of Volzhskaya Poultry Farm CJSC in 20152019. For the experiment, the birds were selected by the method of similar groups (control and three experimental). The control group poultry received a standard ration; the additive was additionally added to the feed of experimental groups 1, 2 and 3 in a concentration of 0.12%, 0.15% and 0.17%, respectively, depending on the fodder weight. The digestibility of dry matter in the body of young and adult laying hens was higher in the experimental groups compared to the control, by 1.82% and 1.79%, 3.13% and 3.08%, 1.97% and 1.93, respectively. The use of the silicon-containing polyadditive “NaBiKat” in various dosages contributed to the increase in pullets’ live weight by the end of the experiment by 4.15–4.35%, and to egg productivity of hens by 0.56% -1.37%. At the same time, there was a decrease in costs for a dozen eggs and 1 kg of egg mass.
Electronic calendar as an element of digital IT-farm management
Authors: Sidorova Victoria , Petrov Evgeny
Published: November 2020

Management of on-farm processes in animal husbandry with an analogue primary accounting system (acts, journals, statements, certificates, cards, etc.) was carried out using paper, and later electronic reporting forms. In the paper flow of zootechnical accounting, the document contained 70-250 records, the processing and maintenance of which took a lot of time: when entering 25-30 characters per minute, 1.5-2.5 hours; in electronic forms the number of printed characters has been reduced by 5-10 times, or up to 10-20 entries per document per minute. The transition from paper reporting to electronic reporting stabilized the speed of accounting and the number of personnel: 4 accountants were replaced by 1 computer operator, while expanding the database. The digitalization of the electronic calendar as a control element for a “smart” farm is becoming a new stage in optimizing work with document flow. The electronic calendar monitors economic and economic processes, time intervals, problems, automatically generates databases of production processes depending on the “key feature”, for example, the indicator “live weight”: animals that meet the condition С0>Cc, who have collected the necessary live weight, pass to the next production cycle. Mass “С”. Animals С0 = – Cc, that do not meet the requirement, are transferred to the emergency implementation group as economically ineffective for further fattening. The program of cyclical formation of production groups Cijdepending on the weighing results, is described by a simulation model U = f(x, p), whereUis the state of the modeled component,fare the main functional dependencies,xare variables,pare parameters.
Environmental protection for the sustainable development of tourism in Vietnam
Authors: Minh Ngoc Nguyen , Minh Quang Le
Published: November 2020

In order to develop tourism, it is impossible not to be attached to the environment, including the social-cultural and natural environment. Although identified as an important economic sector, making a great contribution to the economy, the high-speed development of the tourism industry is also creating great pressure on the environment, especially on the country’s tourist destinations. If the cultural environment guarantees civilized tourism, then the natural environment is the basis for the sustainable development of tourism. Therefore, environmental protection is being posed as a vital issue in tourism today. If you do not immediately take measures to minimize plastic waste and preserve the landscape and environment, it is likely that tourists will turn their backs on Vietnamese destinations. The article mentions a few effective solutions to develop tourism in general and tourism in Vietnam in the most effective way.
Environmental perspective towards sustainability (environmental knowledge of university students in Greater Jakarta)
Authors: Adriyanto Yosi , Nowo Martono Dwi
Published: November 2020

Human perspective on the environment is influenced by factors, education, economic status, and the living environment. This study aims to link environmental knowledge (EK) held by university students and their sustainable behaviour in greater Jakarta. This research is based on the hypothesis that there is no significant relationship between knowledge and pro-sustainability behaviour. A survey was conducted for 50 university students in greater Jakarta, followed by an analytical descriptive to process the data. Research result shows that respondents who hold high Environmental Knowledge are less than respondents who obtain below average Environmental Knowledge. Moreover, it shows no relationship between knowledge and sustainable behaviour. Insights from this study will inform a higher level of environmental knowledge does not necessarily lead to more positive attitudes and behaviors regarding sustainability.
Analysis of technological aspects in the development of smart cities in Indonesia
Authors: Safitri Rahayu , Dyah Kusumastuti Ratih
Published: November 2020

Smart City concept has been proposed as one of the solutions to urban problems. This study aims to analyze the potential for smart city development in Indonesia from the aspects of information and communication technology. The secondary data of ICT elements in Indonesia is used to assess the condition of ICT in Indonesia and the country’s readiness to implement the smart city concept. The data collection was carried out using a literature study. The ICT elements used in the analysis are from the smart city’s five pillars of leverage domain, proposed by Bounachi and Korabat (2018), namelyconnectivity, data center, data analytics, applications, andend-users. The results of this analysis indicate that the Indonesian people from year to year experience an increase in the number of users of computers and cellphones which are ICT devices. However, in other parts of the pillar, Indonesia still needs a lot of improvement, especially in data center construction. This needs to be improved in order to maximize the storage and use of data obtained fromend-userssuch as citizens, residents, visitors, government, public agencies, and private businesses.
Comparative assessment the subsidized housing using LEED, BREEAM and Greenship Neigborhood (Case study: Parung Panjang, West Java, Indonesia)
Authors: Lucianto Andrean Eka , Hasibuan Hayati Sari , Herdiansyah Herdis
Published: November 2020

Indonesia as a country with a large population has challenges in being able to provide housing that applies a sustainable concept but still has to be affordable for the community. Therefore, this research aims to compare the implementation of the three pillars of sustainability from several Neighborhood Sustainability Assessment. The method used in this research is a comparative analysis in assessing the concept of sustainable in subsidized housing and descriptive analysis to provide suggestions for improving the sustainable application in subsidized housing. The assessment carried out by the researchers using direct observation, masterplan interpretation and satellite photo interpretation. The results of the assessment using the Neighborhood Sustainability Assessment of several countries on subsidized housing for Perumnas Parung Panjang obtained silver level from LEED, pass level from BREEAM and bronze level from Greenship. On the other hand, from the aspect of the three pillars of sustainability, it is known that the economic pillars (36.27%) and the environmental pillars (32.14%) have a lower percentage of variable fulfilment compared to the social pillars (61.59%), so that several corrective steps are needed to maximize the application of the concept of sustainable and obtained a better NSA assessment score.
Tidal flood hazard in coastal area of Tangerang Regency
Authors: Hanif Wibowo Wibi , Saraswati Ratna , Sri Rahatiningtyas Nurul
Published: November 2020

Tidal flood is one of the threats to the coastal areas, especially the north coast of Java. The coastal area of Tangerang Regency itself has a history of tidal flood events that occur every year. The tidal flood hazard level can be measured based on the flood characteristic, which includes flood height, flood duration, and flood frequency. Flood characteristic data are obtained by purposive sampling where the tidal flood occurred. Those data are interpolated using Inverse Distance Weighted (IDW) and overlaid to get the tidal flood hazard level in coastal area of Tangerang Regency. The class of non-hazardous dominates Tangerang Regency. The class has 9,727 hectares or 75% of the total coastal area of Tangerang Regency. While the high-class hazard has an area of 1,149 hectares or 9% of the total coastal area of Tangerang Regency. Hazard level may increase in some regions which close to the river mouth. The increasing of hazard level can also be indicated by a low altitude area. Based on the calculation of hazard equilibrium value, the coastal area of Tangerang Regency is dominated by low-class hazard level. There are 12 villages with low-class of hazard level.
Area vulnerability to flooding in Rangkasbitung District and its surroundings, Lebak Regency, Province of Banten
Authors: Octavia Chindy , Marko Kuswantoro
Published: November 2020

There are frequent floods in Lebak Regency, especially in the central city, i.e., Rangkasbitung and its surroundings, which is detrimental to local society. In the last five years, there has been 43 times the flood disaster. The problem of this flooding has not been entirely resolved, although there are indications of an increase in frequency, duration, and distribution in the study area. This study discusses the vulnerability of the area to flooding based on social, economic, and physical characteristics. K-Means Clustering is used to analyze the level of vulnerability for each village from 39 villages in Rangkasbitung, Cibadak, and Kalanganyar Districts. The results showed that the vulnerability level to flooding is dominated by a moderate level spread in the center of the study area. In contrast, the high level of vulnerability spread in the eastern and western parts of the study area. These results can be used as a basis for determining the flood risk areas in future studies.
Analysis of the destructive earthquakes end of 2017 (Mw 6.9) and early 2018 (Mw 6.1) south of West Java, Indonesia
Authors: Supendi Pepen , Rohadi Supriyanto , Karnawati Dwikorita , Nugraha Andri Dian , Widiyantoro Sri , Daryono  , Muzli
Published: November 2020

On December 15, 2017, and January 23, 2018, there were destructive earthquakes to the south of West Java, Indonesia, with Mw 6.9 and Mw 6.1, respectively. We have determined the hypocenter location for both mainshocks through re-picking of the Pand S-wave arrival times recorded by the Agency for Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics (BMKG) seismic stations in West Java and its vicinity. We have then relocated the aftershocks for both events. We have also conducted focal mechanism analysis to estimate the type of fault slip. Our results show the 2017 and 2018 events occurred in the intra-slab at 108.6 km and 46.5 km depths, respectively. The focal mechanism solution shows a thrust fault type with the strike direction almost perpendicular to the trench for the 2017 event, and it is almost parallel to the trench for the 2018 event.
Drought area of agricultural land using Tasseled Cap Transformation (TCT) method in Ciampel Subdistrict Karawang Regency
Authors: Faliha Dzakiyah Iffa , Saraswati Ratna
Published: November 2020

Drought is water availability that is far below the water needs for life, agriculture, economic activities, and the environment. The impact of severe drought in Indonesia occurred in 2015 due to the strong El Nino phenomenon and positive IOD. The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of Karawang Regency noted that drought in 14 villages spread across three subdistricts in Karawang Regency expanded in 2019. One of them is the Ciampel subdistrict. The purpose of this research is to analyze the drought of agricultural land based on green vegetation, soil organic content, and soil moisture using Tasseled Cap Transformation (TCT) method in Ciampel Subdistrict, Karawang Regency in 2015 and 2019. This research uses Landsat 8 OLI imagery in August 2015, September 2015, July 2019, and September 2019. Agricultural land drought includes three indices, namely the brightness index, wetness index and greenness index. Overlay and scoring three drought parameters to making the map drought of agriculture land with four classes such as normal, moderate, high, and very high drought classes. The results show that the drought occurred in 2015 and 2019, but the dry area is more expansive in 2015 than 2019.
Pilot study of air quality index assessment of nitrogen pollutant using lichen as bioindicators in Jakarta and Depok, Indonesia
Authors: Adryanti Felicia Sampe Davita , Maria-Deanne Awuy Jessye , Krista Mustikaning Sekar Trifena , Febrian Wijaya Samuel , Zahwa Ananda Alyssa , Trisha Marella Devina , Mahanaim Tampubolon Putra , Lestari Retno
Published: November 2020

Indonesia needs an alternative air quality index considering that the ones currently in use were not precisely made for the environment and people’s genetic makeup in Indonesia. This study aims to determine if lichen can be used as an alternative index to assess Indonesia’s air quality by acting as a bioindicator. Lichen samples were taken at six locations, three in Gelora Bung Karno’s City Forest, Jakarta, and three at the Universitas Indonesia’s city forest, Depok. Lichens are identified according to the chemical test results and identification key. The amount of lichen obtained is calculated and converted into a NAQI chart to determine if the site’s status is clean air, at-risk, N-polluted, or very N-polluted location. Two of them are polluted by nitrogen from seven sampling areas, while the other five are heavily polluted. This data shows the air quality in all areas is insufficient and polluted. However, our findings are contradictory to nitrogen pollutant data from Meteorology Climatology and Geophysics Council (BMKG). Thus, in the future, there should be a calibrator when measuring air quality analysis using lichen.
Compressive strength of re-vibrated concrete made from pebbles
Authors: Samuel Mahuta Auta , Emmanuel Aku Peter
Published: November 2020

The search for natural and readily available structural material to meet the growing demand for ecologically friendly and smart structures is an ongoing development. In this background, an experimental study into the compressive strength of re-vibrated concrete made from pebbles as coarse aggregate is presented. Fifty-six (56) concrete cubes were cast adopting a re-vibration time lag interval of 10minutes for one hour, with a target strength of 15N/mm2. This comprised 28 cubes 100% granite and 28 cubes 100% pebbles as coarse aggregates respectively. Two curing ages were considered: 7 and 28 days. Results from the compressive strength tests of the cured specimens showed that: at successive time lag intervals there was an appreciable rise in compressive strength of concrete; observable was also a rise in the compressive strength with an increase of curing age. However, even though the maximum compressive strength of 25.64N/mm2 for 100%granite was achieved, that of 100%pebbles attained 23.33N/mm2, both at 60th minute of re-vibration time lag respectively. Hence, it can be suggested that 100% pebbles replacement for granite can be used to produce concrete with compressive strength of up to 23N/mm2 when revibrated.
Unsustainable monitoring of environmental pollutants, post UNEP report: The effects of leachates on Niger Delta Eco-zones, Nigeria
Authors: Donatus Anayo Okpara
Published: November 2020

This expository study revealed the continuum impact of unsustainable monitoring of environmental pollutants (oil-spills and leachates) nearly a decade after UNEP impact assessment report on Ogoniland and Niger Delta eco-zones. The background is focused on pollutants that have continued threats to the environment and ecologically sensitive areas in the region. It infers the dimensions and dynamics of management failures and poor attitude towards environmental policy implementations. A structured questionnaire was adopted using an online survey approach. The target audience includes academicians, undergraduates, and postgraduates. The majority are from Niger Delta, the region where this research was carried out. An online questionnaire was sent across to 30 respondents through e-mail and others, due to Covid-19 restrictions. Their feedback was processed, analysed, and presented in graphics. We found pollution contributions to the mangrove forest to be 47%, oil exploration 77%. The effects were more on soil, water, and air quality. The water bodies are constantly losing the variety of its resources caused by the release of untreated leachates, industrial waste, and petrochemicals. A rather deteriorating fate lies ahead of the people as population increases, and environmental policies and monitoring seem ineffective. The study will be beneficial to the government, policymakers, waste agencies, researchers, etc.
Distribution and environmental risk of microplastics pollution in freshwater of Citarum Watershed
Authors: Izza Indah Afkarina Kunny , Sarwanto Moersidik Setyo , Warno Utomo Suyud
Published: November 2020

The Citarum River is one of the most polluted rivers in the world because of the inadequate waste management system and community ignorance. Plastic is one of the contaminants in the Citarum watershed. In general, plastics less than 5 mm in size are defined as microplastics. Microplastics are persistent and harm the environment. This article aims to determine the potential for pollution and distribution of microplastics in freshwater systems, especially in the Citarum watershed area. Using a combination of literature study methods with Geographical Information Systems (GIS) analysis, this article explains that microplastic contamination has occurred along the Citarum watershed from upstream to downstream, found in water and sediment and fish samples. Facilitated by their small size and high stability in the environment, microplastics can move from the aquatic environment into the food chain and cause longterm damage. This case causes a severe threat to the quality of freshwater in the Citarum watershed. Therefore, this article can be used as a reference for managing pollution in the Citarum watershed area.
Do students and canteen vendors think differently about food segregation?
Authors: Djuwita Ratna , Affifah Ashma , Wulandari Christina
Published: November 2020

In university “X” (UX), littering is no longer a problem, but segregating waste is still not evident. Logically, students and canteen vendors are the ones who produce most of the waste. In this study, the authors want to explore whether students would think differently about handling waste compared to canteen vendors. Using the theory of planned behavior as the theoretical framework, the authors indeed found that students compared with canteen vendors had significantly different attitudes, norms, and perceived behavior control. Students have a more positive attitude towards waste segregation, but they do not perceive it as an essential norm that the canteen vendors perceive. Interestingly, canteen vendors segregate food waste, but students do not segregate. After checking it qualitatively, canteen vendors segregate their waste because they are obliged to the faculty management rules. And the reason for students’ lower performance in segregating waste is that they do not know the campus’ program of waste management. It is concluded that the lack of socialization hinders student’s pro-environmental behavior, and the waste segregating behavior from canteen vendors is affected by the existing norms and rules.
Cilegon’s water crisis towards meeting sustainable development target
Authors: Gumelar Adipati , Sutjiningsih Dwita , Alamsyah Abimanyu T , Tangkudung Auderey
Published: November 2020

This paper discusses efforts in building the sustainability of coastal cities against the water crisis, with the study area in Cilegon, Banten Province. The study results in several studies that estimate that Cilegon will experience a water crisis in 2025. This is a challenge, especially in the effort to fulfill the sixth global target of Sustainable Development Goals, namely to fulfilling 100% clean water needs by 2030. To answer the research question, this study uses a system dynamic method by observing the simulations of relations between variables to be able to balance the gap between clean water needs and the availability of clean water in Cilegon. This study found that to balance this gap, Cilegon had to make technical engineering efforts to increase water availability and make a social engineering effort by reducing their needs for water. So the balance between the need and the availability of water will be achieved in 2030 in accordance with the SDGs target. This study recommends that in order to achieve the sustainability of a coastal city with clean water, a systematic effort is needed by managing the balance between the needs and availability of water in the coastal city.
Plastic litter distribution in Pulau Rambut Wildlife Sanctuary
Authors: Ivonie Regia Nadyanti , Mardiastuti Ani
Published: November 2020

It is not a secret that human activities caused marine litter. Marine litter has become a significant threat and pollutant problem globally, with plastic being the most predominant type of marine litter. It is reported that Pulau Rambut Wildlife Sanctuary, a home and an essential habitat of various species of waterbirds, has been facing marine litter, mostly plastic waste, as a significant threat. This paper aims to identify marine litter’s occurrence and distribution, especially plastic, in Pulau Rambut Wildlife Sanctuary. Data was conducted using a modification of the shoreline survey method by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and a visual survey. Sampling consisted of collecting a macro litter (>2.5 cm) from four plots representing each type of land cover in Pulau Rambut. Foam and plastic are two categories of litter that were commonly found on the island. Plastic spreads in the north to the east part of the island while styrofoam spreads in the west and northwest part of the island.
Time series of forest land cover change in the Upper Citarum Watershed, West Java Province, Indonesia
Authors: Fitridiah Pitaloka Erline , Karuniasa Mahawan , Sarwanto Moersidik Setyo
Published: November 2020

The Upper Citarum Watershed experiences exploitation of space and natural resources problems due to urbanization. Development mismatch based on spatial zoning causes the reduced function of protected areas and degradation of natural resource conservation. Forest, as a water catchment area, has a significant role in environmental sustainability. This study combines literature review methods and spatial analysis to determine the time series of forest land cover change between 2009, 2014, and 2019 by analyzing LULCC in the Upper Citarum Watershed. This study indicates that the time series of forest land cover in the Upper Citarum Watershed has undergone a significant change. Forest increased by 4.63% between 2009 and 2014, and by 32.19% between 2014 and 2019. Based on the mandate of Law no. 41 of 1999 concerning Forestry, the area of forest that must be maintained is at least 30% (thirty percent) of the area of watershed and/or islands with a proportional distribution. With the forest area of 23.61% of the Upper Citarum Watershed, the existing condition has not yet reached the target. So that in the future, collaboration between parties is still needed to achieve forest and watershed sustainability in the Upper Citarum Watershed.
Possibility of applying unmanned aerial vehicle and thermal imaging in several canopy cover class for wildlife monitoring – preliminary results
Authors: Aulia Rahman Dede , Setiawan Yudi
Published: November 2020

Tropical rainforests are one of the important habitats on earth but are rarely explored because they are diﬃcult to access, making their cryptic animals challenging to monitor. Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) with thermal infrared imaging (TIR) technology is gaining entry into wildlife research and monitoring. The researcher tested the possibility of applying DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise Dual with FLIR as aerial survey platforms to wildlife in the five tree density classes in the IPB University Campus. To assess the effectiveness of using drones in detecting wildlife, the researcher measured the optimum flying height, sound level, temperature, and optimum flight time in each canopy cover class. The optimum height for animal detection is <50 m HAGL with a sound level that animals can still tolerate. Wildlife detected had body temperatures around 27 °C and were conspicuous in the thermal infrared imagery at night and early morning when the forest canopy was cool (15–27°C), but were difficult to detect by mid-day. By that time, the direct sunshine had heated up canopy vegetation to over 30°C. Species were difficult to identify from thermal infrared imagery alone but could be recognized from synchronized visual images taken during the daytime.
Introduction of e-commerce at enterprises as a driver of digital economy
Authors: Drobyazko Svetlana
Published: November 2020

It is proved that the introduction of electronic commerce is an effective tool to improve enterprises’ efficiency and the ability to access global markets. The advantages and disadvantages of using e-commerce for the subjects of economic relations: consumers, enterprises, and the state have been analyzed. The goal of the work is the development of a theoretical and methodological framework, substantiation of the directions of functioning and regulation of e-business enterprises. Statistical evaluation of e-commerce development has been used as the main research method. Peculiarities of the use of acquiring as a service of technological information services for settlements on transactions made using electronic means of payment in a payment system have been considered. Based on the results of the study, the use of acquiring a small business with a view to its development of Digital Economy has been proposed. As a conclusion from the results of the study, the recommended means of ensuring economic security in the field of electronic commerce: two-step authentication, negative lists, customer order history, credit history verification, payer authentication, fraud modeling, fingerprint devices, card confirmation numbers, and address verification services.
The effect of water deficit on inflorescence period at palm oil productivity on peatland
Authors: Ambar Suharyanti Nanik , Mizuno Kosuke , Sodri Ahyahudin
Published: November 2020

Various factors influence palm oil production, including planting material, environment (climate and soil), and cultivation management. The environment occupies a crucial position that can affect crop production potential even with optimal cultivation management. Unfavorable climatic conditions, for instance, drought, can cause water deficit, which has implications for crop productivity. This paper aims to get a comparative study for the effect of water deficit on the inflorescence period, namely the sex determination phase (29 months before harvesting) and floral abortion (10 months before harvesting). The research was carried out on oil palm plantations on peatland in Riau, Indonesia, with the characteristic annual rainfall of 2000 mm/ year. This study employs a simple regression analysis on panel data of five years and two estates for data analysis. The result highlights that the increase of a 100 mm water deficit on oil palm peatland plantation impacts the decrease in productivity by 6% in the sex determination phase. In contrast, in the floral abortion phase, the decline in productivity is more significant, namely 7%. The analysis also indicated that the research deficit had more impact on the bunch number than the bunch weight.
Reliability of RT-PCR tests to detect SARS-CoV-2: risk analysis
Authors: Bezier Clément , Anthoine Géraldine , Charki Abdérafi
Published: November 2020

The rapid escalation of the number of COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) cases has forced countries around the world to implement systems for the widest possible testing of their populations. The World Health Organization (WHO) has in fact urged all countries to carry out as many tests as they can. Clinical laboratories have had to respond urgently to numerous and rising demands for diagnostic tests for SARS-CoV-2. The majority of laboratories have had to implement the RT-PCR (Reverse Transcriptase − Polymerase Chain Reaction) test method without the benefit of adequate experimental feedback. It is hoped that this article will make a useful contribution in the form of a methodology for the risk analysis of SARS-CoV-2 testing by RT-PCR and at the same time result reliability analysis of diagnostic tests, via an approach based on a combination of Fishbone Diagram and FMECA (Failure Mode, Effects, and Criticality Analysis) methods. The risk analysis is based on lessons learned from the actual experience of a real laboratory, which enabled the authors to pinpoint the principal risks that impact the reliability of RT-PCR test results. The probability of obtaining erroneous results (false positives or negatives) is implicit in the criticality assessment obtained via FMECA. In other words, the higher the criticality, the higher the risk of obtaining an erroneous result. These risks must therefore be controlled as a priority. The principal risks are studied for the following process stages: nucleic acid extraction, preparation of the mix and validation of results. For the extraction of nucleic acids, highly critical risks (exceeding the threshold set from experimentation) are the risk of error when depositing samples on the extraction plate and sample non-conformity. For the preparation of the mix the highest risks are a non-homogenous mix and, predominantly, errors when depositing samples on the amplification plate. For the validation of results, criticality can reach the maximum severity rating: here, the risks that require particular attention concern the interpretation of raw test data, poor IQC (Internal Quality Control) management and the manual entry of results and/or file numbers. Recommendations are therefore made with regard to human factor influences, internal contamination within the laboratory, management of reagents, other consumables and critical equipment, and the effect of sample quality. This article demonstrates the necessity to monitor, both internally and externally, the performance of the test process within a clinical laboratory in terms of quality and reliability.
Répétition et incarnation dans l’énonciation
Authors: Prak-Derrington Emmanuelle
Published: November 2020

Pourquoi répéter ? Répéter, c’est ne pas dire autrement, et ce faisant rendre les signes strictement non substituables. Le maintien des signifiants redonne aux signes leur « corps ». Les mots privés de corps sont interchangeables, les signes redevenus entiers voient au contraire se décupler leur potentialités sémantiques et pragmatiques et peuvent assumer d’autres fonctions que celle de représentation. Fonctions expressive, poétique et métalinguistique, bien sûr, mais aussi ludique, humoristique, rituelle, performative… Nous posons que la répétition met au jour l’existence de deux modes de signifier pour le signe biface : d’une part lasignificationoumode du signifié(les signes y sont substituables et sont donnés et reçus comme arbitraires), d’autre part lasignifianceoumode du signifiant(les signes y sont non-substituables et sont donnés et reçus comme motivés). Nous illustrons notre thèse de la signifiance incarnée de la répétition au moyen de la figure de la réduplication, que nous définissons comme geste verbo-vocal, à mi-chemin entre parole et geste. Nous montrons ensuite comment la triplication (répétition égale ou supérieure à trois) peut faire glisser la parole vers le chant et assumer une function incantatoire.
Les attitudes envers le langage inclusif des francophones et leur effet sur l’évaluation d’un texte
Authors: Tibblin Julia
Published: November 2020

La présente étude examine de façon quantitative le lien entre les attitudes envers l’égalité des genres et celles à l’égard du langage inclusif. Elle étudie aussi comment un texte écrit en langage inclusif est évalué, et observe les facteurs pouvant agir sur la façon dont il est considéré. D’abord, des analyses statistiques montrent que les femmes ont des attitudes plus positives envers le langage inclusif que les hommes, et que les personnes habitant une aire francophone autre que la France manifestent des attitudes plus positives que les Français et les Françaises. Ensuite, le texte rédigé en langage inclusif est moins bien évalué, mais semble être aussi bien compris que le même texte au masculin générique. Des analyses supplémentaires montrent une corrélation positive entre les attitudes envers le langage inclusif et l’évaluation du texte, mais seulement lorsque le texte est écrit avec ce type de rédaction. Finalement, les commentaires laissés fournissent de nouvelles perspectives sur l’usage et la réception du langage inclusif des 377 participant-es.
Iodine-Mediated Facile One-Pot Access to N-Aryl-2-benzoxazolamines
Authors: Tanimori Shinji , Nariki Haruna , Miyamura Takuya , Matsui Daiki , Sonoda Motohiro
Published: November 2020

Facile, iodine-mediated access to N-aryl-2-benzoxazolamines has been achieved in a one-pot manner under mild reaction conditions. Reaction of 2-aminophenols and aryl isothiocyanates afforded N-aryl-2-benzoxazolamines in the presence of molecular iodine and pyridine in tetrahydrofuran at room temperature in moderate to excellent yields.
Science communication as a preventative tool in the COVID19 pandemic
Authors: Matta Gagan
Published: November 2020

Humans have witnessed epidemics and pandemics periodically throughout history. Often, such infectious outbreaks have resulted in entire civilisations struggling against possible extinction. Despite recent clinical advancements and technological developments, issues of neglected sustainability and lax health hygiene practices, among others, have provided a context for the emergence of the COVID19 pandemic. Against such a backdrop, scientific communication using diversified tools could play a significant role in efforts towards preparedness and control, as well as the initiation of immediate remedial measures in the fight against epidemics and pandemics. These tools could help to increase understanding of the scientific solutions to minimise the outbreaks of infectious diseases, thereby strengthening societal immunity. This paper considers the history of epidemics/pandemics to draw attention to their occurrence, effects and potential impacts on human societies. In addition, it defines the major factors underpinning the various infectious outbreaks over the last three decades. Constructive preparation and preventative stages for authorities, scientists and researchers to check and diminish the impact of epidemics and pandemics during and post-outbreak are suggested while focusing on the need for science communication in the healthcare system. The paper also reviews recent empirical studies and WHO guidelines. Communication through appropriate communicators may help cut through the noise, share facts and boost confidence in science and governance. The impact of science communication on the interplay between government–expert–public or society could help promote positive behavioural change as well as overcome linguistic barriers.
Phototactic poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide) microgels with photoresponsive property
Authors: Wu Xiao-ran , Xue Xiang , Wang Jing-hang , Liu He-wen
Published: November 2020

Smart functional microgels hold great potential in a variety of applications, especially in drug transportation. However, current drug carriers based on physiological internal stimuli cannot efficiently orientate to designated locations. Therefore, it is necessary to introduce the self-propelled particles to the drug release of the microgels. In order to study self-propulsion of microgels induced by light, it is also a challenge to prepare micronsized microgels so that they can be observed directly under optical microscopes. In this work, phototactic microgels with photoresponsive properties are prepared. The microgel particles can be observed by confocal laser scanning microscopy. The photoresponsive properties of microgels are fully investigated by various instruments. Light can also regulate the state of the microgel solution, making it switch between turbidity and clarity. The phototaxis of particles irradiated by UV light was studied, which may be used for microgels enrichment and drug transportation and release.
Rate coefficients of roaming reaction H+MgH using ring polymer molecular
dynamics
Authors: Yang Hui , Fan Wen-bin , Fang Jun-hua , Song Jianing , Li Yongle
Published: November 2020

The ring-polymer molecular dynamics (RPMD) was used to calculate the thermal rate coefficients of the multi-channel roaming reaction H+MgH→Mg+H2. Two reaction channels, tight and roaming, are explicitly considered. This is a pioneering attempt of exerting RPMD method to multi-channel reactions. With the help of a newly developed optimization-interpolation protocol for preparing the initial structures and adaptive protocol for choosing the force constants, we have successfully obtained the thermal rate coefficients. The results are consistent with those from other theoretical methods, such as variational transition state theory and quantum dynamics. Especially, RPMD results exhibit negative temperature dependence, which is similar to the results from variational transition state theory but different from the ones from ground state quantum dynamics calculations.
Structural dynamics of amyloid β peptide binding to acetylcholine receptor and virtual screening for effective inhibitors
Authors: Hou Yan-jun , Zheng Xuan , Zhong Hong-mei , Chen Feng , Yan Gui-yang , Cai Kai-cong
Published: November 2020

The interaction between Amyloid β (Aβ) peptide and acetylcholine receptor is the key for our understanding of how Aβ fragments block the ion channels within the synapses and thus induce Alzheimer’s disease. Here, molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were performed for the structural dynamics of the docking complex consisting of Aβ and α7-nAChR (α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor), and the inter-molecular interactions between ligand and receptor were revealed. The results show that Aβ25-35 is bound to α7-nAChR through hydrogen bonds and complementary shape, and the Aβ25-35 fragments would easily assemble in the ion channel of α7-nAChR, then block the ion transfer process and induce neuronal apoptosis. The simulated amide-I band of Aβ25-35 in the complex is located at 1650.5 cm−1, indicating the backbone of Aβ25-35 tends to present random coil conformation, which is consistent with the result obtained from cluster analysis. Currently existing drugs were used as templates for virtual screening, eight new drugs were designed and semi-flexible docking was performed for their performance. The results show that, the interactions between new drugs and α7-nAChR are strong enough to inhibit the aggregation of Aβ25-35 fragments in the ion channel, and also be of great potential in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
Interaction energy prediction of organic molecules using deep tensor neural network
Authors: Qi Yuan , Ren Hong , Li Hong , Zhang Ding-lin , Cui Hong-qiang , Weng Jun-ben , Li Guo-hui , Wang Gui-yan , Li Yan
Published: November 2020

The interaction energy of two molecules system plays a critical role in analyzing the interacting effect in molecular dynamic simulation. Since the limitation of quantum mechanics calculating resources, the interaction energy based on quantum mechanics can not be merged into molecular dynamic simulation for a long time scale. A deep learning framework, deep tensor neural network, is applied to predict the interaction energy of three organic related systems within the quantum mechanics level of accuracy. The geometric structure and atomic types of molecular conformation, as the data descriptors, are applied as the network inputs to predict the interaction energy in the system. The neural network is trained with the hierarchically generated conformations data set. The complex tensor hidden layers are simplified and trained in the optimization process. The predicted results of different molecular systems indicate that deep tensor neural network is capable to predict the interaction energy with 1 kcal/mol of the mean absolute error in a relatively short time. The prediction highly improves the efficiency of interaction energy calculation. The whole proposed framework provides new insights to introducing deep learning technology into the interaction energy calculation.
Optical trapping gets structure: Structured light for advanced optical manipulation
Authors: Otte E. , Denz C.
Published: November 2020

The pace of innovations in the field of optical trapping has ramped up in the past couple of years. The implementation of structured light, leading to groundbreaking inventions such as high-resolution microscopy or optical communication, has unveiled the unexplored potential for optical trapping. Advancing from a single Gaussian light field as trapping potential, optical tweezers have gotten more and more structure; innovative trapping landscapes have been developed, starting from multiple traps realized by holographic optical tweezers, via complex scalar light fields sculpted in amplitude and phase, up to polarization-structured and highly confined vectorial beams. In this article, we provide a timely overview on recent advances in advanced optical trapping and discuss future perspectives given by the combination of optical manipulation with the emerging field of structured light.