bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Problematika Upah Pekerja Garam Perspektif Fiqh Ijarah
Authors: Sufyan Akhmad Farid Mawardi , Hofifatur Khoriah
Published: September 2023

Madura sebagai penghasil garam nasional diharap menjadi pemasok garam nasional, hanya saja menyisakan masalah dalam proses produksinya terutama pada mekanisme upah pekerja garam sehingga kajian ini fokus pada bagaimana sistem pengupahan kuli garam dan bagaimana perspektif Hukum Ekonomi Syariah terhadap sistem pengupahannya di Desa Lembung Kecamatan Galis Kabupaten Pamekasan. Penelitian ini penelitian empiris (field research) dengan pendekatan kualitatif. Kesimpulan riset ini adalah pelaksanaan pengupahan kuli garam yang terjadi di Desa Lembung ialah berdasarkan kesepakatan secara lisan yaitu setelah selesai bekerja panen garam langsung dibayar, namun terkadang dibayarkan terlambat lima hingga tujuh hari setelah kerja panen garam, tanpa ada kejelasan waktu dan konfirmasi. Adapun perspektif Hukum Ekonomi Syariah terhadap sistem pelaksanaan pengupahan kuli garam di Desa Lembung melanggar ketentuan ijarah karena menyalahi perjanjian yang sudah disepakati, sebab terkadang dibayar terlambat dari kesepakatan pembayaran yang semestinya tanpa ada konfirmasi. (Madura as a national salt producer is expected to become a national salt supplier, but it only leaves problems in the production process, especially in the wage mechanism for salt workers, so this study focuses on how the wage system for salt workers is and what the perspective of Sharia Economic Law is on the wage system in Lembung Village, Galis District, Pamekasan Regency. . This research is empirical research (field research) with a qualitative approach. The conclusion of this research is that the implementation of wages for salt workers in Lembung Village is based on a verbal agreement, namely after completing work on salt harvesting, they are immediately paid, but sometimes they are paid 5-7 days late after work on salt harvesting, without clear timing or confirmation. As for the Sharia Economic Law perspective on the salt worker wage implementation system in Lembung Village, it violates the provisions of ijarah because it violates the agreed agreement, because sometimes they are paid late from the proper salary agreement without any confirmation.)
Machine Learning-Based Detection and Severity Assessment of Sunflower Powdery Mildew: A Precision Agriculture Approach
Authors: Bütüner Alperen Kaan , Şahin Yavuz Selim , Erdinç Atilla , Erdoğan Hilal
Published: September 2023

Sunflower powdery mildew (Golovinomyces cichoracearum (DC.) V.P. Heluta) is a substantial threat
to sunflower crops, causing significant yield loss. Traditional identification methods, based on human
observation, fall short in providing early disease detection and quick control. This study presents a novel
approach to this problem, utilizing machine learning for the early detection of powdery mildew in sunflowers. The disease severity levels were determined by training a Decision Trees model using matrix of soil, powdery mildew, stems, and leaf images obtained from original field images. It was detected disease severity levels of 18.14% and 5.56% in test images labeled as A and C, respectively. The model's demonstrated accuracy of 85% suggests high proficiency, indicating that machine learning, specifically the DTs model, holds promising prospects for revolutionizing disease control and diseases prevention in agriculture.
Aprendiendo de la historia de la arquitectura mediante el análisis y modelado a escala de ejemplos arquitectónicos = Learning from architectural history through analysis and scale modeling of architectural examples
Authors: Delgado Cruz María José , Cuenca Soto Franklin Guillermo , Noriega Armijos Verónica
Published: September 2023

La asignatura de Historia y Teoría de la Arquitectura I, forma parte de la formación de los estudiantes de Arquitectura de la Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, esta presenta un grado de complejidad para los estudiantes en su proceso de aprobación, debido a su contenido teórico y las clases transmitidas de manera unidireccional, lo que de alguna manera no está dando buenos resultados. Ante esto la propuesta se justifica por la necesidad de incorporar actividades alternativas que hagan que el alumno, relacione la teoría con la práctica, el resultado es un aporte didáctico, esta práctica se cumple a partir de varias actividades: la construcción a escala de diferentes elementos representativos de cada periodo de la historia, con base en redibujo de varias obras y detalles. Las conclusiones fueron un aprendizaje más efectivo y dinámico, comprobado por los resultados de aprendizaje, en comparación con otros parámetros de ciclos anterioresAbstractThe subject of History and Theory of Architecture I is part of the formation of the students of Architecture of the Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, this presents a degree of complexity for the students in their approval process, due to its theoretical content and the classes transmitted in a unidirectional way, which somehow is not giving good results. Given this, the proposal is justified by the need to incorporate alternative activities that make the student, relate theory with practice, the result is a didactic contribution, this practice is fulfilled from several activities: the construction to scale of different representative elements of each period of history, based on redrawing of various works and details. The conclusions were a more effective and dynamic learning, proven by the learning results, compared to other parameters of previous cycles
PERCEPCIONES DEL ALUMNADO UNIVERSITARIO SOBRE LA MUERTE Y EL DUELO EN LA COVID 19 = Perceptions of university students about death and mourning in Covid 19
Authors: Trujillo-Vargas José Jesús , Barroso-Tristán José María , Fonseca-Beltrán Leonidas Danith , Romero-Acosta Kelly Carolina
Published: September 2023

El trabajo que presentamos versa sobre un tema tan apasionante como poco abordado en los diferentes niveles educativos. Se trata de la muerte y de cómo se puede trabajar desde un enfoque didáctico. La pérdida es algo con lo que lidiamos a lo largo de nuestras vidas. La forma de afrontar las pérdidas y la preparación del duelo tiene que ver con la cultura en la que hemos sido socializados desde pequeños. Comenzar con pequeñas intervenciones didácticas con los docentes que se están formando como futuros maestros es un magnífico inicio formativo para “asegurar” que, en el futuro, tanto en Primaria como en Secundaria, exista una verdadera didáctica de la muerte y del duelo. El objetivo de este trabajo es establecer una pedagogía socioeducativa de la muerte que propicie que los futuros educadores dispongan de bases epistemológicas y didácticas suficientes para realizar un trabajo multidimensional sobre la pérdida y el duelo con sus futuros alumnos. Para ello realizamos una serie de acciones didácticas y una investigación-acción a partir de un cuestionario validado con preguntas abiertas en función de dichas acciones.AbstractThe work that we present deals with a topic that is as exciting as it is little addressed at different educational levels. It is about death and how it can be worked from a didactic approach. Loss is something we deal with throughout our lives. The way of coping with losses and preparing for grief has to do with the culture in which we have been socialized since childhood. Beginning with small didactic interventions with teachers who are being trained as future teachers is a magnificent formative start to "ensure" that, in the future, both in Primary and Secondary, there is true didactics of death and mourning. The objective of this work is to establish a socio-educational pedagogy of death that encourages future educators to have sufficient epistemological and didactic bases to carry out multidimensional work on loss and mourning with their future students. For this, we carry out a series of didactic actions and an action-research based on a validated questionnaire with open questions based on said actions.
Sustaining wine identity through intra-varietal diversification
Authors: Neethling Etienne , Duchêne Eric , Van Leeuwen Cornelis , Marguerit Elisa , Goulet Etienne , Grondain Virginie
Published: September 2023

To sustain local wine identity in uncertain climate outcomes, the study of intra-varietal diversity is important to reflect the adaptive potential of cultivated varieties. Findings highlight the strong phenotypic diversity of studied varieties and the importance of diversification to enhance climate change resilience. This study is the first step towards quantifying heat requirements of different clones and how they can provide adaptation solutions for winegrowers.
Sayonara BCS: Realization of Room Temperature Superconductivity as a result of a First Order Phase Transition
Authors: Zen N.
Published: September 2023

By making periodic thru-holes in a suspended film, the phonon system can be modified. Motivated by the BCS theory, the technique -- so-called phonon engineering -- was applied to a metallic niobium sheet. It was found that its electrical resistance dropped to zero at 175 K, and the zero-resistance state persisted up to 290 K in the subsequent warming process. Despite the initial motivation, neither these high transition temperatures nor the phase transition with thermal hysteresis can be accounted for by the BCS theory. Therefore, we abandon the BCS theory. Instead, it turns out that the metallic holey sheet is partly oxidized to form a niobium-oxygen square lattice, which has points of resemblance to a copper-oxygen plane, the fundamental component of cuprate high-Tc superconductors. Therefore, the pairing mechanism underlying this study should be related to that of cuprate high-Tc superconductors, which we may not yet understand. In addition to the electrical results of zero resistance, the holey sheet exhibited a decrease in magnetization upon cooling, i.e., the Meissner effect. Moreover, the remnant magnetization was clearly detected at 300 K, which can only be attributed to persistent currents flowing in a superconducting sample. Thus, this study meets the established criteria for a conclusive demonstration of true superconductivity. Finally, the superconducting transition with the unambiguous thermal hysteresis is discussed. According to Halperin, Lubensky, and Ma, or HLM for short, any superconducting transition must always be first order with thermal hysteresis because of the intrinsic fluctuating magnetic field. The HLM theory is very compatible with the highly oriented system harboring two-dimensional superconductivity.
Annual Solar Geoengineering: Mitigating Yearly Global Warming Increases
Authors: Feinberg Alec
Published: September 2023

Solar geoengineering (SG) solutions have many advantages compared to the difficulty of carbon removal (CR): SG produces fast results, is shown here to have much higher efficiency than CR, is not related to fossil fuel legislation, and is something we all can participate in brightening the Earth with cool roofs, and roads. SG requirements detailed previously to mitigate global warming (GW) have been concerning primarily because of overwhelming goals and climate circulation issues. In this paper, the advantages of annual solar geoengineering (ASG) to mitigate yearly global warming increases are explored and detailed as it provides higher feasibility in geoengineering applications. ASG area modification requirements found here are generally 50 to possibly higher than 150 times less compared to the challenge of full SG GW mitigation reducing circulation concerns. Results indicate that AI paint drone technology is likely needed for Earth brightening to meet annual mitigation goals. As well, results show much higher feasibility for L1 space shading compared to prior literature estimates for full GW mitigation. However, stratosphere injections appear challenging in the annual approach. Because ASG earth brightening area requirements are much smaller than those required for full mitigation, we have concerns that worldwide negative SG would interfere with making positive advances for a number of reasons. Negative SG currently dominates yearly practices with the application of dark asphalt roads and roofs. This issue is discussed.
Is Modern Medicine in Need of an Overhydration Marker in Kidney Failure? The Accuracy of Available Fluid Overload Markers and the Potential of the New Ones
Authors: Nikitiuk Barbara Emilia , Rydzewska-Rosołowska Alicja , Kakareko Katarzyna , Głowińska Irena , Hryszko Tomasz
Published: September 2023

Overhydration (OH) is a common medical problem found in patients with kidney or heart failure, but still a specific marker has not been found. Clinicians today use bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS), ultrasound (US) markers of fluid overload or markers of heart and kidney function like NT-pro-BNP, GFR or creatinine levels. New serum markers such as Ca-125, Galectin-3 (Gal-3), Adrenomedullin (AMD) and Urocortin-2 (UCN-2), are being researched with promising results. The need to discover a more precise marker of overhydration is dire mainly because physical examination is extremely imprecise. Signs and symptoms of fluid overload like edema or gradual increase of body mass are not always present, especially in patients with chronic kidney disease. This review paper summarizes actual knowledge of a patient's hydration status estimation focusing especially on kidney diseases.
Evaluation of the Toxicity Profile and Central Nervous System (CNS) Activities of Glue (Adhesive) Inhalation in Wistar Rats
Authors: Jimoh Abdulgafar Olayiwola , Ibeabuchi Onyinye Emmanuella , Abubakar Bilyaminu , Umaru Millicent Ladi , Hudu Shuaibu Abdullahi , Sani Zuwaira , Otalike Edith Ginika , Mohammed Umar , Haruna Muhammad Sanusi , Adeshina Kehinde Ahmad
Published: September 2023

Purpose: Glue inhalation is a common unconventional substance of abuse and it contains neurotoxic and volatile solvents. We examined the toxicity profile and CNS activities of glue inhalation in Wistar rats.Methods: Acute toxicity was investigated using graded concentrations of 0.5, 1, and 2 mL of glue inhalation (n=3/group) for 4 hours in phase one followed by concentrations of 5, 10, and 20 mL of glue (n=1/group) for 4 hours in phase two. These animals were then observed for signs of toxicity and/or mortality for 24hours. The sub-acute toxicity was studied using 24 male Wistar rats at graded concentrations of Air, 2, 4 and 8mL glue (n=6/group) for 28 days. Blood samples were collected for biochemical and haematological evaluations, and vital organs (lung, liver, kidney, heart, brain, and eye) were used for histological analysis. Behavioural studies were carried out using Elevated Plus Maze, Hole Board Test, Open Field Test, Tail Suspension Test and Forced Swim Test. Dependence and abstinence effect were also evaluated. Results: The Lethal Dose (LD50) of the inhalational glue was 14.14 ml. Glue significantly increased liver function parameters like TB, DB, ALP, ALT, TP, electrolyte levels (K+ and HCO3) but reduced cholesterol level in exposed rats. Glue inhalation had significant anxiolytic and depressant effects on the rats at concentrations of 4mL and 8mL. Histological analysis revealed liver and lung tissue abnormalities and subconjunctival inflammation in eye tissue at 8mL. Conclusion: The study therefore suggests that glue inhalation has anxiolytic and depressant effects in Wistar rats.
Dark Energy and Dark Matter as Different Manifestations of Vacuum Energy
Authors: Umar Kabir
Published: September 2023

Dark energy and dark matter are described as different manifestations of vacuum energy within the framework of Extra Dimensional Symmetry (EDS) that doubles large spatial dimensions with microscopic partners. In this framework, the bare vacuum energy component exists in a gravitationally inert state where actual gravitational constant Go= 0G, while real particles oscillate between this inert state and the active state where Go = 2G. The background effect of neutrino substrates in the inert state makes Go> 0G, causing the gravitation of virtual particles with positive pressure appearing as dark matter. A small component of vacuum energy from the inert state also spills into the gravitationally active state as dark energy. This is due to an energy density constraint and speed limit asymmetry between the two gravitational states that limits the capacity of the inert state to contain all the vacuum energy component. This form of dark energy and dark matter, are parameterized by a common asymmetry parameter which is suppressed in deep gravitational potential wells. The dynamics of this form of dark matter however, is further parametrized by the phase and kinetic energy dependent parameters of its neutrino substrate. This results in the existence of a dominant light form of dark matter and a detectable heavy form of dark matter. The model predicts a curvature suppressed Gravitational Wave Reheating (GWR) mechanism in which gravitational waves produce electromagnetic secondary in the presence of strong negative pressure.
Could You Evaluate Sounds in a Virtual Environment?: Evaluation Components of Auditory Experience in a Metaverse Environment
Authors: Park Byoungwoo , Namkung Kiechan , Pan Younghwan
Published: September 2023

This study aims to develop an auditory experience evaluation questionnaire to improve the presence of metaverse environments, and to derive evaluation components considering auditory presence and auditory user experience (AUX) through a survey. After conducting a survey with a total of 232 participants, five evaluation components were extracted from auditory presence and AUX evaluation factors through principal component analysis (PCA) and reliability analysis (RA): 'realistic auditory background', 'acoustic aesthetics', 'consideration of acoustic control and accessibility', 'auditory utility and minimalist design', and 'auditory consistency'. In particular, although AUX evaluation factors such as 'ease of access to sound control' have limitations in improving the sense of presence, negative factors of presence such as 'distraction due to sound' can be improved by utilizing AUX evaluation factors, so it is judged that the sense of presence in the metaverse environments can be improved by enhancing the auditory sense of presence and AUX evaluation factors according to the composition of the five evaluation components derived in this study. This study can be used as a basis for developing an auditory experience evaluation questionnaire for the metaverse platform, creating sound design guidelines, and identifying sound development priorities.
Incobotulinumtoxin A and Yoga-Like Isometric Exercise in Adolescent Idiopathic Lumbar Scoliosis – a Randomized Pilot Study
Authors: Fishman Loren
Published: September 2023

Incobotulinumtoxin A and Yoga-like Isometric Exercise in Adolescent Idiopathic Lumbar Scoliosis – a randomized pilot study Abstract: Background: Approximately 90% of scoliosis is adolescent idiopathic (AIS). From its first appearance at 10-14 until age 18 it is most vulnerable to deterioration; young people are most susceptible to the condition worsening. An effective non-surgical means of remediation would be welcome. Design: Randomized control two-arm study, assessing the safety and efficacy of combining incobotulinum injections with yoga to reverse lumbar and thoracolumbar AIS. Methods: In a private clinic setting, non-pregnant healthy 12 – 18 year-olds were either taught a symmetrical “placebo” yoga pose (control sub-group 1), given the side plank (Vasisthasana) done thrice daily with placebo injection (control sub-group 2) or given the thrice-daily side-plank with botulinum injection (Intervention group 3). Injection: 33 IU of incobotulinum toxin type A (Xeomin) injected into concave-side lumbar paraspinals and quadratus lumborum at L2-3 and the psoas muscle at L3-4, or injected similarly with placebo. Randomization by Random.com. Objective: Assess whether muscular asymmetry treated with botulinum toxin injection and the side-plank are safe and effective in AIS.Results: Outcome: Twelve intervention and 12 placebo patients (Groups 1 + 2), 12 -18 years old completed the three-month study period. Mean daily side-plank time = 165 seconds. Mean initial lumbar curvature was 36.9 degrees (SD 14.36), (p<0.0001); mean curvature at 3 weeks was 29.5 degrees. (SD 14.23) (p<0.0001); mean curvature at 3 months was 26.0 degrees (SD 12.81) Onset vs 3-month value: p<0.0001. Two patients in Group 3 complained of shoulder pain, and 2 of wrist pain that resolved when the side-plank was done on the elbow. Conclusion: Muscle asymmetry appears relevant to AIS treatment. Incobotulinum injections combined with the side-plank done with the convex side downward may be safe and helpful in adolescent idiopathic lumbar scoliosis.
Simultaneous Analysis of Hydrophobic Atractylenolides, Atractylon and Hydrophilic Sugars in Bai-Zhu by HPLC Column Tandem Technique
Authors: Gu Zhixing , Nie Xi , Guo Ping , Lu Yuehua , Chen Bo
Published: September 2023

An analytical method was established by HPLC-DAD-ELSD with C18-NH2 column tandem for the simultaneous determination of hydrophobic components atractylenolide I, II, III, atractylone and hydrophilic compounds glucose, fructose and sucrose in the dried rhizome of Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz (a natural raw material for health foods, Bai-Zhu aka. in Chinese). The method combines different separation capabilities of reversed-phase liquid chromatography and hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography, can provide a new choice for the simultaneous determination of hydrophilic and hydrophobic compounds in traditional Chinese medicines and health foods. It provided a reference method for the quality control of Bai-Zhu. The results showed that the linear correlation coefficients of the established column tandem chromatographic method were all greater than 0.9990, the relative standard deviation was 0.1%-2.8%, and the average recovery was 96.7%-103.1%. The contents of atractylenolide I, II, III, atractylone, fructose, glucose, and sucrose in 17 batches of Baizhu were 172.3-759.8 μg/g, 201.4-612.8 μg/g, 160.3-534.2 μg/g, 541.4-8723.1 μg/g, 6.9-89.7 mg/g, 0.7-7.9 mg/g, and 1.2-21.0 mg/g, respectively.
A necessary and sufficient condition for proof of the Binary Goldbach conjecture. Proofs of Binary Goldbach, Andrica and Legendre conjectures. Notes on the Riemann hypothesis. (Edition 8D)
Authors: Buya Samuel , Nchima John Bezaleel
Published: September 2023

In this research a neccessary and sufficient condition for the proof of the Binary Goldbach conjecture is established. It is established that the square of all natural numbers greater or equal to 2 have an additive partition equal to the sum of the square of a natural number greater or equal to zero and a Goldbach partition semiprime. All Goldbach partition semiprimes are odd except 4. This finding is in itself proof all composite even numbers have at least Goldbach partition. The result of the proof of the Binary Goldbach conjecture is used to prove the Andrica and Legendre conjectures. The Riemann hypothesis is examined and sources of non trivial zeroes outside the critical strip are discussed. An example example of a non-trivial zero outside the critical strip is given
A Study on the Measuring Methods of Websites Security Risk Rate
Authors: Lee Yong joon
Published: September 2023

Static and dynamic analysis of website security risks is generally used for website security meas-urements. The website security measurements method recently proposed includes similarity hash-based website security risk analysis and machine learning-based website security risk anal-ysis. In this study, a method that can be performed through information disclosed on the Internet was proposed to measure the risk of a website. DNS information, IP information, and website history information are required to measure the risk of a website. In addition, global traffic rank-ing, malicious code distribution history, and HTTP access status can be checked in the website history information. In this study, information related to the security risk of websites in a total of 2,000 domains was collected and analyzed in 1,000 normal and malicious domains. Through the experiment results, 11 open information collection items were selected to measure the security risk of the website. This study presented the possibility of using public information collection to measure website security risk.
Influence of a Combined Physical Exercises on Ankle Muscle Activation during Static and Proactive Postural Control on Older Adults with Sarcopenic Obesity: A Multicenter, Randomized, and Controlled Trial
Authors: Magtouf Elmoetez , Chortane Sabri Gaied , Chortane Oussema Gaied , Boyas Sébastien , Beaune Bruno , Durand Sylvain , Maktouf Wael
Published: September 2023

Despite limited research on the effects of a combined physical exercises on static and proactive postural control and neuromuscular functions in older adults with sarcopenic obesity (SO), this study addresses the gap by examining the efficacy of a 4-month Total Mobility Plus (TMP) regimen. The study enrolled 40 older adults with SO, split into an intervention group (n=25, mean age = 76.1 ± 3.5 years; mean BMI = 34.4 ± 4.0 kg/m²) and a control group (n=25, mean age = 75.9 ± 5.4 years; mean BMI = 32.9 ± 2.3 kg/m²). Participants in the IG engaged in 60-minute TMP sessions three times a week for four months, while the CG maintained their typical daily activities. Standardized evaluations were performed before and after the intervention, including the Romberg and Timed Up and Go (TUG) tests, Center of pressure (CoP) parameters during different conditions, muscle activation and strength of plantar and dorsal flexors. Post-intervention results revealed significant reduction of the standing time measured in the Romberg (-15.6%, p<0.05), and TUG (-34.6%, p<0.05) tests. Additionally, CoP area and velocity, were notably reduced in various conditions (p<0.05). Postural control improvements were associated with an increase of strength and decrease of ankle muscle activation. These findings validate the TMP program as a safe and effective method for enhancing static and proactive postural control and neuromuscular capabilities in older adults with SO.
Effect of Low-Level Laser Therapy in Wound Healing and Post-Operative Pain Management of Primary Molar Teeth Extraction: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Özer Hazal , Abaklı İnci Merve
Published: September 2023

Background:This study evaluated the effect of low-level laser therapy on postoperative pain and wound healing in children undergoing primary molar extractions.Methods:40children,6-10years of age, systemically healthy, and had atraumatic extraction indications of bilateral primary molar teeth were included in the study. First session randomly selected tooth was extracted under local anesthesia. In the control group, only the clot formation on the socket was observed and photographed. Other group extraction's performed 2weeks later. The LLLT group treated with980nm wavelength Doctor Smile Wiser diode laser and photographed. Non-epithelialized surface measurements performed with the ImageJ program. Pain assessment was performed with Wong-Baker Pain Scale. Statistical analyzes were performed with SPSS software.Results: There was no statistically significant difference in Wong-Baker values(p>0.05). The laser group had more '0' values on days 1 and7; same values as the control group were recorded on other days. In soft tissue healing 3rd day evaluations, non-epithelialized surface of laser socket was found to be smaller than control group, and measurement results were found to be statistically significant(p<0.05). The other days' measurement results were not statistically significant(p>0.05).Conclusions:Although LLLT not found to be very effective in reducing postoperative discomfort after extraction of primary molars, it provides better wound healing in extraction sockets.
Syngas Fermentation: Cleaning of Syngas as a Critical Stage in Fermentation Performance
Authors: Ellacuriaga Marcos , Gil María Victoria , Gómez Xiomar
Published: September 2023

The fermentation of syngas is an attractive technology that can be integrated with gasification of lignocellulosic biomass. The coupling of these two technologies allows for treating a great variety of raw materials. Lignin usually hinders microbial fermentations; thus, the thermal decomposition of the whole material into small molecules allows for the production of fuels and other types of molecules using syngas as substrate, a process performed at mild conditions. Syngas contains mainly hydrogen, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide in varying proportions. These gases have a low volumetric energy density, resulting more interesting its conversion into higher energy density molecules. Syngas can be transformed by microorganisms, thus avoiding the use of expensive catalysts, which may be subject to poisoning. However, the fermentation is not free of suffering from inhibitory problems. The presence of trace components in syngas may cause a decrease in fermentation yields or cause a complete cessation of bacteria growth. The presence of tar and hydrogen cyanide are just examples of this fermentation's challenges. Syngas cleaning impairs significant restrictions in technology deployment. The technology may seem promising, but it is still far from large-scale application due to several aspects that still need to find a practical solution.
Population Dynamics of Selected Field Pests and Their Effect on Grain Yield and Yield Components of Common Bean in Uganda
Authors: Halerimana Charles , Kyamanywa Samuel , Otim Michael H.
Published: September 2023

In Uganda, the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is often infested by a complex of insect pests, but the bean stem maggots, aphids, bean leaf beetles, and flower thrips are the most important. Whereas yield losses due to these pests have been established, there is limited information on their population dynamics at different stages of crop growth and their effect on yield and yield components. In order to describe the population dynamics of selected common bean pests at various phases of bean crop growth, and their impact on yield and yield components, a study was carried out in Uganda during 2016 second rains and 2017 first rains in three agro-ecological zones. Bean fly, bean aphids, bean leaf beetles, whitefly, striped bean weevil, leaf hoppers, and caterpillars of Lepidopteran species were the main insects observed. Pesticide spray schedules were imposed to generate different populations of insect pests whose effects on yield and its components were determined. The findings indicate that spray regimes significantly influenced the abundance of bean fly, aphids, whitefly, striped bean weevil, and leaf hoppers but not bean leaf beetles and caterpillars. Additionally, except caterpillars, insect pests were significantly influenced by crop growth stages, but only aphids, whiteflies, bean flies and leaf hoppers exhibited a significant negative relationship with grain yield. Furthermore, yield and yield components varied significantly between spray regimes, agro-ecological zones, and seasons. Our study is important in informing growers on the stage of crop growth at which management tactics such as use of insecticides can be applied for different insect pests.
Investigation of Some Upland Cotton (Gossypium hir-sutum L.) Genotypes Tolerance Under Limited Irriga-tion at Seedling Stage
Authors: çelik Sadettin
Published: September 2023

Cotton is an important plant since it provides raw materials for various in-dustry bracnhes. Even though cotton is generally tolerant of drought, it is af-fected negatively by long-term drought stress. This experiment was conduct-ed according to a completed randomized plots trial design with 3 replications to determine the upland cotton genotype’s reactions against drought under controlled conditions in the 2022 year. All genotypes were watered with 80 mL-1 of water (100% irrigation, Field capacity) until three true leaves ap-peared. After this period water stress was applied at limited irrigation of 75% (60 mL-1), 50% (40 mL-1), and 25% (20 mL-1) of field capacity. After the trial terminated at 52. Days, the cv. G56, elit line G44, G5, and commercial variety G86 genotype, respectively resulted in the highest Root Length (RL), and the G76 genotype resulted in the lowest RL followed by G41 and G35 elite lines. G1 cultivar showed the highest Root Fresh Weight (RFW), followed by G56, G44, G86, G51, and G88, respectively. The lowest RFW was also obtained in elite lines G76 and G41. The third drought morphological marker, the Num-ber of Lateral Roots (NLRs), was the highest in G44, followed by G86, Cv. G56, elite lines G13 and G5 genotype. The lowest NLRs value was obtained in genotype G47 and G76. The highest RDW means was obtained in elite line G5, followed by Cv. G56, elite line G44, G75 and cv. G90, while the lowes RDW mean obtained in elite line G76, G35, and local varieties G20 and G61. In the SL marker, the highest averages were recorded for genotypes G35, G15, G26, G67, and G56, respectively. In the SFW marker, the highest averages were observed in genotypes G15, G52, G60, G31, and G68, respectively. The lowest SL values were observed in genotypes G91, G72, G32, and G22. Simi-larly, the lowest SFW values were found in genotypes G83, G2, G75, and G91. In another shoot drought marker, Shoot Dry Weight (SDW), the highest val-ues were obtained in genotypes G35, G52, G57, G41, and G60, respectively. Conversely, the lowest SDW values were observed in genotypes G65, G91, G4, G20, and G22. In conclusion, the commercial varieties with high averages in roots, namely G86, G56, G88, and G90, and the genotypes G67, G20, G60, and G57 showing tolerance in shoots, are suggested to be potential parent plants for developing cotton varieties resistant to drought. Using the culti-vars found tolerant in the current study as parents in a drought-tolerant vari-ety development Marker-assisted selection (MAS) plant breeding program will increase the chance of success in reaching the target after genetic diversi-ty analyses are performed. It is highly recommended to continue the plant breeding program with the G44, G30, G19, G1, G5, G75, G35, G15, G52, G29, and G76 genotypes which show high tolerance in both root and shoot sys-tems.
A MSM Visible-near-Infrared Wavelength Photodetector Based on PbS Quantum Dots/Porous Silicon Hybrid Structure
Authors: He Yunlai , Li Xuanzhang , Zhang Junyang , Gao Zhendong , Li Xinxin , Liu Jiale , Deng Zhen , Lei Xiuyun , Du Chunhua , Jiang Yang , Jia Haiqiang , Wang Wenxin , Chen Hong
Published: September 2023

porous silicon-based photodetectors have attracted more researches due to their high luminous efficiency, good stability and low cost. In this paper, a PbS quantum dots/porous silicon hybrid structure has been fabricated. The PbS quantum dots (QDs) partly infiltrated into the porous silicon (PSi) layer and partly deposited on its surface, which could increase the absorption of near-infrared wavelength range and extend the light absorption in silicon for wavelengths longer than 1100 nm. After that, A metal-semiconductor-metal (MSM) device is fabricated and its response spectrum could extend to the 1200 nm at -3 V. As a silicon-based photodetector (PD), one can envision its role for operation from visible light to short-wavelength infrared range.
Effect of High Temperature Synthesis of TiC and SPS Sintering on Cu-Based Composites
Authors: Chen Cong , Zhai Zhenjie , Li Denghui , Sun Changfei , Chen Wen
Published: September 2023

TiC particles were prepared from Ti and C powders, and TiC-reinforced Cu-based composites were prepared by powder metallurgy with SPS sintering. The effects of SPS sintering temperature and TiC particle reinforcement phase content on the electrical and mechanical properties of Cu-based composites were investigated. The reinforcement of TiC particles by thermal mismatching at increasing sintering temperature has a significant strengthening effect on the composites, but the high temperature causes softening of the Cu matrix and the growth of grains reduces the properties of the composites. In this study, the effects of porosity and density on the composite properties were not significant.
FEM Investigation of the Air Resonance in a Cretan Lyra
Authors: Papadakis Nikolaos M. , Nikolidakis Nikolaos , Stavroulakis Georgios E.
Published: September 2023

Cretan lyra is a stringed instrument very popular on the island of Crete, Greece and an important part of its musical tradition. For stringed musical instruments, the air mode resonance plays a vital part in their sound, especially in the low frequency range. For this study, the air mode resonance of a Cretan lyra is investigated with the use of finite element method (FEM). Two different FEM acoustic models were utilized: first, a pressure acoustics model with the Cretan lyra body treated as rigid was used to provide an approximate result; secondly, an acoustic-structure interaction model was applied for a more accurate representation. In addition, acoustic measurements were performed to identify the air mode resonance frequency. Results of this study reveal that the acoustic-structure interaction model has a 3.7% difference regarding the actual measurements of the resonance frequency. In contrast, the pressure acoustics solution is approximately 13.8% too high compared with the actual measurements. Taken together, findings of this study support the idea that utilizing FEM acoustic-structure interaction models could possibly predict more accurately the vibroacoustic behavior of musical instruments, which in turn can enable the determination of key aspects that can be used to control the instrument’s tone and sound quality.
Impact on Economic Growth in the Visegrad Countries of Renewable and Non-Renewable Energy Consumption and CO2 Emissions
Authors: Supron Blazej , Myszczyszyn Janusz
Published: September 2023

The study presents empirical results investigating the relationships among renewable and non-renewable energy consumption, CO2 emissions, and GDP within the Visegrád Group (V4) countries. Using FMOLS/DOLS and ARDL approaches, along with causality tests based on the Toda-Yamamoto method, the study explores these relationships at a regional level. The findings indicate that renewable energy has a small positive impact on long-term economic growth, with non-renewable energy having a more significant effect. Moreover, CO2 emissions have a negative impact on economic growth, suggesting ongoing reliance on non-renewable energy sources and a burden on economic expansion. On an individual country level, the effects vary. Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary exhibit a negative relationship between CO2 emissions and economic growth. Energy sources also differ in impact: in Poland, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia, non-renewable energy significantly affects economic growth, while in Hungary, renewable energy plays a more substantial role. Causality tests reveal a causal relationship between CO2 emissions and economic growth in the Czech Republic and Poland, suggesting CO2 emissions significantly influence economic expansion. In terms of energy production, renewable energy is causally related to economic growth in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. All countries demonstrate significant causality between non-renewable energy and economic growth. Additionally, a relationship between renewable energy and CO2 emissions is confirmed in Poland.
The Effect of Hole Geometry on the Nonlinear Nanomechanics of γ-Graphyne Structures: A Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Georgantzinos Stelios K. , Siampanis Sotirios G. , Rogkas Nikolaos , Spitas Vasilios
Published: September 2023

Graphyne is a material that has unique mechanical properties, but little is known about how these properties change when the material has holes. In this work, the effect of hole geometry, considering circular, triangle, and rhombus hole configurations, on the mechanical nonlinear response of γ-graphyne structures is studied. Graphyne, graphdiyne, graphyne-3, and graphyne-4 structures are under investigation. An efficient nonlinear finite element analysis (FEA) method is adequately implemented under large deformations for this purpose. The study varied the size and shape of the holes to understand how these changes affect the nanostructure's mechanical response. The results indicate that the hole geometry significantly impacts the mechanical nonlinear response of γ-graphyne structures. The holes' size and shape affect the structures' elastic behavior, deformation, and strength. The findings can be used to optimize the design of γ-graphyne structures for specific mechanical applications. The study highlights the importance of considering the hole geometries in the design and fabrication of these materials.
Developing a Business Maturity Framework (BMF) for As-sessing the Business Maturity and Improving the Organization Management in the Oil and Gas Industry
Authors: Panduru Dan Andrei , Scarlat Cezar , Ioanid Alexandra
Published: September 2023

This paper examines the use of business maturity models as a tool for achieving business maturity and improving organizational performance in a rapidly changing business environment. Specifi-cally, the paper evaluates existing maturity models and methodologies, analyzes their effective-ness, and develops a novel and enhanced model tailored to the oil and gas sector. The authors highlight the importance of considering fundamental factors that underlie the implementation of maturity models and the need to evaluate their fit with organizational goals and values. The pa-per concludes by emphasizing the ongoing nature of business maturity and the effectiveness of theproposed Business Maturity Framework (BMF) model in enhancing operational excellence, competitiveness, and sustainable growth in the oil and gas industry.
The paper makes a notable contribution to the specialized literature precisely through the differ-ent approaches to the business maturity process and through the proposed business maturity model itself as a base of strategy formulation, which includes a new dimension. This dimension analyzes whether the market and customers are ready for the level of digitization that the com-pany wants to achieve in a future state.
Identification and Reduction of Product Carbon Footprints: Case Studies from the Austrian Automotive Supplier Industry
Authors: Rüdele Kai , Wolf Matthias
Published: September 2023

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from human activities have climbed significantly above pre-pandemic levels and reached record highs that unequivocally accelerate global warming. Industry has a significant impact on climate change, emitting at least 21 % of global GHGs and making little overall progress toward its reduction until now. Reducing industry’s emissions requires coordinated action along the value chains in order to promote mitigation options, such as energy and material efficiency, circular material flows, and transformative changes within production processes. The authors analyzed the GHG emissions generated during the manufacturing of three different products of automotive suppliers located in Austria. Despite previous efforts toward an environmentally compatible fabrication, additional and significant reduction potentials were identified. These measures for product carbon footprint (PCF) reduction included the sourcing of low-carbon materials (which are already available on the market), more extensive use of renewable energy, and changes towards more resource efficient manufacturing processes and machinery. Depending on the materials used, the PCF can be reduced by up to 80 %. The findings serve to prepare for future PCF reporting regulations and illustrate reduction potentials to achieve future market advantages, especially when PCFs become an awarding criterion.
Idiopathic or Drug Induced Autoimmune HepatitisCan We Draw a Line?
Authors: Božić Dorotea , Tonkić Jr. Ante , Vukojevic Katarina , Radman Maja
Published: September 2023

Idiosyncratic drug induced liver injury (DILI) is an unpredictable reaction of exposed individual on a certain drug, and the drug-induced autoimmune hepatitis (DIAIH) presents a DILI phenotype that mimics idiopathic autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) when considering the clinical, biochemical, serological and histological parameters. We present a case of a 48-year-old male that was hospitalized due to severe hepatocellular liver injury two months after the self-treatment with the muscle-building dietary supplement based on arginine-alpha-ketoglutarate, L-citrulline, L tyrosine, creatine malate and beet extract. His immunology panel was positive with increased IgG levels, and the radiologic methods showed no signs of chronic liver disease. He underwent corticosteroid treatment with adequate response. After the therapy withdrawal, a clinical relapse occurred. Seven months after the initial presentation liver MR suggested the initial cirrhotic changes of the right liver lobe. Liver biopsy revealed abundant lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate with piecemeal necrosis and grade 2 fibrosis. He responded well on the corticosteroid treatment again, and was further treated with low dose prednisone without additional relapses. Several years later, further management confirmed presence of liver cirrhosis with no histological or biochemical signs of the disease activity. DIAIH is a DILI phenotype difficult to distinguish from idiopathic AIH despite a wide armamentarium of diagnostic methods. Regular patient monitoring and clinical open-mindedness with the adjustment of therapeutic approaches according to the disease course are more important than strict labelling of the disease.
Rain Cover and Netting Materials Differentially Affect Fruit Yield and Quality Traits in Two Highbush Blueberry Cultivars by Changes in Sunlight and Temperature Conditions
Authors: Matamala María F. , Bastías Richard M. , Urra Ignacio , Calderón-Orellana Arturo , Campos Jorge , Albornoz Karin
Published: September 2023

The use of covers to protect blueberry orchards from adverse weather events has increased due to the variability in climate patterns, but the effects of rain cover and netting materials on yield and fruit quality have not been studied yet. This research evaluated the simultaneous effect of LDPE plastic cover, woven cover and netting materials on environmental components (UV light, PAR, NIR and growing degree days, GDD), plant performance (light interception, leaf area index, LAI, yield and flower development), and fruit quality traits (firmness, total soluble solids and acidity) in two blueberry cultivars. On average, UV transmission under netting was 11% and 43% higher compared to that under woven and LDPE plastic covers, while NIR was 8 -13% higher with both types of rain covers, with an increase in fruit air temperature and GDD. Yield was 27% higher under woven cover with respect to netting, but fruit firmness values under netting were 12% higher than those of LDPE plastic cover. Light interception, LAI and flower development explained 64% (p=0.0052) of the yield variation due to the cover material effect. The obtained results suggest that the type of cover differentially affects yield and fruit quality in blueberries due to the specific light and temperature conditions generated under these materials.