bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Fusarium Infection and Mycotoxin Contamination of Wheat Kernels and Flour Using Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Alisaac Elias , Behmann Jan , Rathgeb Anna , Karlovsky Petr , Dehne Heinz-Wilhelm , Mahlein Anne-Katrin
Published: September 2019

Fusarium head blight (FHB) epidemics in wheat and contamination with Fusarium mycotoxins has become an increasing problem over the last decades. This prompted the need for non-invasive and non-destructive techniques to screen cereal grains for Fusarium infection, which is usually accompanied by mycotoxin contamination. This study tested the potential of hyperspectral imaging to monitor the infection of wheat kernels and flour with three Fusarium species. Kernels of two wheat varieties inoculated at anthesis with F. graminearum, F. culmorum, and F. poae were investigated. Hyperspectral images of kernels and flour were taken in the visible-near infrared (VIS-NIR) (400–1000 nm) and short-wave infrared (SWIR) (1000–2500 nm) ranges. The fungal DNA and mycotoxin contents were quantified. Spectral reflectance of Fusarium-damaged kernels (FDK) was significantly higher than non-inoculated ones. In contrast, spectral reflectance of flour from non-inoculated kernels was higher than that of FDK in the VIS and lower in the NIR and SWIR ranges. Spectral reflectance of kernels was positively correlated with fungal DNA and deoxynivalenol (DON) contents. In the case of the flour, this correlation exceeded r = −0.80 in the VIS range. Remarkable peaks of correlation appeared at 1193, 1231, 1446 to 1465, and 1742 to 2500 nm in the SWIR range.
Searching for Quantum Black Hole Structure with the Event Horizon Telescope
Authors: Giddings Steven
Published: September 2019

The impressive images from the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) sharpen the conflict between our observations of gravitational phenomena and the principles of quantum mechanics. Two related scenarios for reconciling quantum mechanics with the existence of black hole-like objects, with “minimal” departure from general relativity and local quantum field theory, have been explored; one of these could produce signatures visible to EHT observations. A specific target is temporal variability of images, with a characteristic time scale determined by the classical black hole radius. The absence of evidence for such variability in the initial observational span of seven days is not expected to strongly constrain such variability. Theoretical and observational next steps towards investigating such scenarios are outlined.
Vector Competence: What Has Zika Virus Taught Us?
Authors: Azar Sasha R. , Weaver Scott C.
Published: September 2019

The unprecedented outbreak of Zika virus (ZIKV) infection in the Americas from 2015 to 2017 prompted the publication of a large body of vector competence data in a relatively short period of time. Although differences in vector competence as a result of disparities in mosquito populations and viral strains are to be expected, the limited competence of many populations of the urban mosquito vector, Aedes aegypti, from the Americas (when its susceptibility is viewed relative to other circulating/reemerging mosquito-borne viruses such as dengue (DENV), yellow fever (YFV), and chikungunya viruses (CHIKV)) has proven a paradox for the field. This has been further complicated by the lack of standardization in the methodologies utilized in laboratory vector competence experiments, precluding meta-analyses of this large data set. As the calls for the standardization of such studies continue to grow in number, it is critical to examine the elements of vector competence experimental design. Herein, we review the various techniques and considerations intrinsic to vector competence studies, with respect to contemporary findings for ZIKV, as well as historical findings for other arboviruses, and discuss potential avenues of standardization going forward.
Bacterial Virus Lambda Gpd-Fusions to Cathelicidins, α- and β-Defensins, and Disease-Specific Epitopes Evaluated for Antimicrobial Toxicity and Ability to Support Phage Display
Authors: Hayes Sidney
Published: September 2019

We showed that antimicrobial polypeptides, when translated as gene fusions to the bacteriophage lambda capsid decoration protein gpD, formed highly toxic molecules within E. coli, suggesting that they can retain their antimicrobial activity conformation when fused to gpD. These include gpD-fusions to human and porcine cathelicidins LL37 and PR39, β-defensins HBD3 and DEFB126-Δ (deleted for its many COOH-terminal glycosylation sites), and α-defensin HD5. Antimicrobial toxicity was only observed when the peptides were displayed from the COOH-terminal, and not the NH2-terminal end, of gpD. This suggests that COOH-terminal displayed polypeptides of gpD-fusions can more readily form an active-state conformation than when they are displayed from the NH2-terminal end of gpD. The high toxicity of the COOH-displayed gpD-defensins suggests either that the fused defensin peptides can be oxidized, forming three correct intramolecular disulfide bonds within the cytosol of bacterial cells, or that the versions without disulfide bonds are highly toxigenic. We showed the high efficiency of displaying single epitope 17 amino-acid fusions to gpD on LDP (lambda display particles), even when the gpD-fusion protein was toxic. The efficient formation of high display density LDP, displaying a single disease specific epitope (DSE), suggests the utility of LDP-DSE constructs for use as single epitope vaccines (SEV).
Identification of Loci Associated with Enhanced Virulence in Spodoptera litura Nucleopolyhedrovirus Isolates Using Deep Sequencing
Authors: Zwart Mark P. , Ali Ghulam , van Strien Elisabeth A. , Schijlen Elio G. W. M. , Wang Manli , van der Werf Wopke , Vlak Just M.
Published: September 2019

Spodoptera litura is an emerging pest insect in cotton and arable crops in Central Asia. To explore the possibility of using baculoviruses as biological control agents instead of chemical pesticides, in a previous study we characterized a number of S. litura nucleopolyhedrovirus (SpltNPV) isolates from Pakistan. We found significant differences in speed of kill, an important property of a biological control agent. Here we set out to understand the genetic basis of these differences in speed of kill, by comparing the genome of the fast-killing SpltNPV-Pak-TAX1 isolate with that of the slow-killing SpltNPV-Pak-BNG isolate. These two isolates and the SpltNPV-G2 reference strain from China were deep sequenced with Illumina. As expected, the two Pakistani isolates were closely related with >99% sequence identity, whereas the Chinese isolate was more distantly related. We identified two loci that may be associated with the fast action of the SpltNPV-Pak-TAX1 isolate. First, an analysis of rates of synonymous and non-synonymous mutations identified neutral to positive selection on open reading frame (ORF) 122, encoding a viral fibroblast growth factor (vFGF) that is known to affect virulence in other baculoviruses. Second, the homologous repeat region hr17, a putative enhancer of transcription and origin of replication, is absent in SpltNPV-Pak-TAX1 suggesting it may also affect virulence. Additionally, we found there is little genetic variation within both Pakistani isolates, and we identified four genes under positive selection in both isolates that may have played a role in adaptation of SpltNPV to conditions in Central Asia. Our results contribute to the understanding of the enhanced activity of SpltNPV-Pak-TAX1, and may help to select better SpltNPV isolates for the control of S. litura in Pakistan and elsewhere.
Viruses and Bats
Authors: Woo Patrick C. Y. , Lau Susanna K. P.
Published: September 2019

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Viral Infections and Autoimmune Disease: Roles of LCMV in Delineating Mechanisms of Immune Tolerance
Authors: Fousteri Georgia , Dave Jhatakia Amy
Published: September 2019

Viral infections are a natural part of our existence. They can affect us in many ways that are the result of the interaction between the viral pathogen and our immune system. Most times, the resulting immune response is beneficial for the host. The pathogen is cleared, thus protecting our vital organs with no other consequences. Conversely, the reaction of our immune system against the pathogen can cause organ damage (immunopathology) or lead to autoimmune disease. To date, there are several mechanisms for virus-induced autoimmune disease, including molecular mimicry and bystander activation, in support of the “fertile field” hypothesis (terms defined in our review). In contrast, viral infections have been associated with protection from autoimmunity through mechanisms that include Treg invigoration and immune deviation, in support of the “hygiene hypothesis”, also defined here. Infection with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) is one of the prototypes showing that the interaction of our immune system with viruses can either accelerate or prevent autoimmunity. Studies using mouse models of LCMV have helped conceive and establish several concepts that we now know and use to explain how viruses can lead to autoimmune activation or induce tolerance. Some of the most important mechanisms established during the course of LCMV infection are described in this short review.
Molecular Identification of a Novel Hantavirus in Malaysian Bronze Tube-Nosed Bats (Murina aenea)
Authors: Zana Brigitta , Kemenesi Gábor , Buzás Dóra , Csorba Gábor , Görföl Tamás , Khan Faisal , Tahir Nurul , Zeghbib Safia , Madai Mónika , Papp Henrietta , Földes Fanni , Urbán Péter , Herczeg Róbert , Tóth Gábor , Jakab Ferenc
Published: September 2019

In the past ten years, several novel hantaviruses were discovered in shrews, moles, and bats, suggesting the dispersal of hantaviruses in many animal taxa other than rodents during their evolution. Interestingly, the coevolutionary analyses of most recent studies have raised the possibility that nonrodents may have served as the primordial mammalian host and harboured the ancestors of rodent-borne hantaviruses as well. The aim of our study was to investigate the presence of hantaviruses in bat lung tissue homogenates originally collected for taxonomic purposes in Malaysia in 2015. Hantavirus-specific nested RT-PCR screening of 116 samples targeting the L segment of the virus has revealed the positivity of two lung tissue homogenates originating from two individuals, a female and a male of the Murina aenea bat species collected at the same site and sampling occasion. Nanopore sequencing of hantavirus positive samples resulted in partial genomic data from S, M, and L genome segments. The obtained results indicate molecular evidence for hantaviruses in the M. aenea bat species. Sequence analysis of the PCR amplicon and partial genome segments suggests that the identified virus may represent a novel species in the Mobatvirus genus within the Hantaviridae family. Our results provide additional genomic data to help extend our knowledge about the evolution of these viruses.
Irrigation Requirement for Eucalyptus pellita during Initial Growth
Authors: Aprialdi Dwinata , Haiban Muhammad Ibnu , Kløve Bjørn , Torabi Haghighi Ali
Published: September 2019

The growth of Eucalyptus pellita in forestry plantations requires attention to water requirements, especially in the initial growth phase from seedling to field-ready plant. In this study, actual evapotranspiration (ETa), crop coefficient (Kc), and the irrigation requirement of E. pellita were assessed during the nursery growth phase (day 40–142). The experimental set-up included lysimeters with different treatments in terms of plants, drainage, and soil conditions. Plant growth and water balance were monitored during June September 2018 in an open nursery area in Riau, Indonesia. ETa was determined by the water balance lysimeter method and potential (reference) evapotranspiration (ETo) was extracted based on the Penman-Monteith method (FAO/56). The results showed that the average Kc value for E. pellita at age 40–142 days is 0.79, which exceeds that reported for E. grandis. The recommended irrigation requirement varies depending on precipitation, from 70 mL/plant/day with no rainfall to zero at precipitation of >30 mm/day. This is the first study to assess water use in E. pellita growing in pots during the nursery phase, which provides guidance on irrigation requirements during their initial growth phase.
Interdisciplinary Critical Geographies of Water: Capturing the Mutual Shaping of Society and Hydrological Flows
Authors: Rusca Maria , Di Baldassarre Giuliano
Published: September 2019

In light of recent calls for an increased commitment to interdisciplinary endeavors, this paper reflects on the implications of a critical geography of water that crosses social and natural sciences. Questions on how to best research the relationship between water and society have been raised both in the field of critical geographies of water and sociohydrology. Yet, there has been little crossover between these disciplinary perspectives. This, we argue, may be partly explained by the fact that interdisciplinary research is both advocated and antagonized. On the one hand, interdisciplinarity is argued to deliver more in terms of effectively informing policy processes and developing theoretical perspectives that can reform and regenerate knowledge. On the other hand, natural and social sciences are often presented as ontologically, epistemologically, and methodologically incompatible. Drawing on our own research experience and expertise, this paper focuses on the multiple ways in which critical geographies of water and sociohydrology are convergent, compatible, and complementary. We reflect on the existing theoretical instruments to engage in interdisciplinary research and question some of the assumptions on the methodological and epistemological incompatibility between natural and social sciences. We then propose that an interdisciplinary resource geography can further understandings of how power and the non-human co-constitute the social world and hydrological flows and advance conceptualizations of water as socionatures.
Variation of the Relative Soil Moisture of Farmland in a Continental River Basin in China
Authors: Zhu Guofeng , Li Qiaoqiao , Pan Hanxiong , Huang Meihua , Zhou Junju
Published: September 2019

The reduction of grain production caused by drought is one of the most serious problems caused by natural disasters. The relative soil moisture of farmland is the most important monitoring indicator for agricultural drought. This study investigated the relative soil moisture of farmland data from 38 agrometeorological stations in a continental river basin area in China from 1992 to 2012. Spatial and temporal variations of the relative soil moisture of farmland were studied using geostatistical analysis. The results show that, from 1992 to 2012, the average annual relative soil moisture of farmland in the continental river basin ranged from 62.5 to 86.1%, and the relative soil moisture of farmland was high in the marginal areas of basins and low in the central areas of basins and plateau areas. The relative soil moisture of farmland was high in the Tarim Basin and the Hexi Corridor, which are located in the northern Tianshan Mountains and the southern and northern Qilian Mountains, and was low from the northern Altun Mountains to the south of Lop Nor, the Turpan Depression, and the Tarbagatai Mountains. From 1992 to 2012, the annual average relative soil moisture of farmland in the continental river basins showed an increasing trend, with a growth rate of 0.57% yr−1. The variation tendency of the relative soil moisture of farmland was different in different river basins; the relative soil moisture showed a decreasing trend in the Mongolian Plateau and an increasing trend in other basin areas. The relative soil moisture of farmland increased in summer, spring, and winter, and decreased in autumn. The change in relative soil moisture of farmland was due to a combination of climatic factors, such as precipitation and temperature, as well as topography and glacial meltwater.
A Simplified Water Accounting Procedure to Assess Climate Change Impact on Water Resources for Agriculture across Different European River Basins
Authors: Hunink Johannes , Simons Gijs , Suárez-Almiñana Sara , Solera Abel , Andreu Joaquín , Giuliani Matteo , Zamberletti Patrizia , Grillakis Manolis , Koutroulis Aristeidis , Tsanis Ioannis , Schasfoort Femke , Contreras Sergio , Ercin Ertug , Bastiaanssen Wim
Published: September 2019

European agriculture and water policies require accurate information on climate change impacts on available water resources. Water accounting, that is a standardized documentation of data on water resources, is a useful tool to provide this information. Pan-European data on climate impacts do not recognize local anthropogenic interventions in the water cycle. Most European river basins have a specific toolset that is understood and used by local experts and stakeholders. However, these local tools are not versatile. Thus, there is a need for a common approach that can be understood by multi-fold users to quantify impact indicators based on local data and that can be used to synthesize information at the European level. Then, policies can be designed with the confidence that underlying data are backed-up by local context and expert knowledge. This work presents a simplified water accounting framework that allows for a standardized examination of climate impacts on water resource availability and use across multiple basins. The framework is applied to five different river basins across Europe. Several indicators are extracted that explicitly describe green water fluxes versus blue water fluxes and impacts on agriculture. The examples show that a simplified water accounting framework can be used to synthesize basin-level information on climate change impacts which can support policymaking on climate adaptation, water resources and agriculture.
Feasibility Assessment of a Water Supply Reliability Index for Water Resources Project Planning and Evaluation
Authors: Chen Boris Po-Tsang , Chen Chang-Shian
Published: September 2019

In order to estimate water supply potential, the effects of shortages on water users, and the uncertainty of local headspring conditions during the planning stage of reservoir construction, the Shortage Index (SI) is often employed. However, the criterion used in the SI is difficult to adjust to satisfy local conditions and objectives. The SI also employs an ambiguous definition of value. Thus, this study adopted a water supply reliability index (WSRI) as an alternative to the SI for providing the criterion for water resources project planning. The value of the WSRI is easily understood, because it is defined according to the real water supply situation and it has a strong linear relationship with values of SI. For any given water supply system, the estimated results derived from this study could serve as an additional remark on different SI values to explain the relevant water supply considerations. In addition, for a new planning site, the estimated results of this study could provide another way for engineers to evaluate the maximum water supply capability. Consequently, an interesting avenue of investigation in future research would be the incorporation of the WSRI with the risk of deficit frequency in establishing an efficient and transparent bottom-up approach for water resources management, involving all the relevant stakeholders.
A Simple and Unified Linear Solver for Free-Surface and Pressurized Mixed Flows in Hydraulic Systems
Authors: Hu Dechao , Li Songping , Yao Shiming , Jin Zhongwu
Published: September 2019

A semi–implicit numerical model with a linear solver is proposed for the free-surface and pressurized mixed flows in hydraulic systems. It solves the two flow regimes within a unified formulation, and is much simpler than existing similar models for mixed flows. Using a local linearization and an Eulerian–Lagrangian method, the new model only needs to solve a tridiagonal linear system (arising from velocity-pressure coupling) and is free of iterations. The model is tested using various types of mixed flows, where the simulation results agree with analytical solutions, experiment data and the results reported by former researchers. Sensitivity studies of grid scales and time steps are both performed, where a common grid scale provides grid-independent results and a common time step provides time-step-independent results. Moreover, the model is revealed to achieve stable and accurate simulations at large time steps for which the CFL is greater than 1. In simulations of a challenging case (mixed flows characterized by frequent flow-regime conversions and a closed pipe with wide-top cross-sections), an artificial slot (A-slot) technique is proposed to cope with possible instabilities related to the discontinuous main-diagonal coefficients of the linear system. In this test, a slot-width sensitivity study is also performed, and the suitable slot-width ratio (ε) for the linear solver is suggested to be 0.05–0.1.
Spatio-Temporal Variations in Precipitation Extremes in the Endorheic Hongjian Lake Basin in the Ordos Plateau, China
Authors: Liang Kang
Published: September 2019

Precipitation extremes have important implications for regional water resources and ecological environment in endorheic (landlocked) basins. The Hongjian Lake Basin (HJLB), as the representative inflow area in the Ordos Plateau in China, is suffering from water scarcity and an ecosystem crisis; however, previous studies have paid little attention to changes in precipitation extremes in the HJLB. In this study, we investigated the spatio-temporal variations of the core extreme precipitation indices (i.e., PRCTOT, R99p, Rx1day, Rx5day, SDII, R1, R10, CWD, and CDD) recommended by the Expert Team on Climate Change Detection and Indices (ETCCDI), and analyzed the climatic dry–wet regime indicated by these extreme indices during 1960–2014 in the HJLB. The results show that the nine extreme indices had large differences in temporal and spatial variation characteristics. All the nine extreme precipitation indices showed a large fluctuation, both in the whole period and in the three detected different sub-periods, with variation magnitudes of 13%–52%. Most extreme indices had non-significant downward trends, while only the consecutive wet days (CWD) had a significant upward trend. The eight extreme wet indices increased from northwest to southeast, while the consecutive dry days (CDD) had the opposite change direction. Each index had a different trend with different spatial distribution locations and areas. The nine extreme indices revealed that the climate in the HJLB has become a drought since the early 1980s. This was specifically indicated by all four extreme precipitation quantity indices (PRCTOT, R99p, Rx1day, Rx5day) and the extreme intensity index (SDII) declining, as well as the number of heavy precipitation days (R10) decreasing. When the dry–wet variations was divided into the different sub-periods, the climatic dry–wet changes of each index demonstrated more inconsistency and complexity, but most indices in the first sub-period from 1960 to the late 1970s could be regarded as a wet high-oscillation phase, the second sub-period after the early 1980s was a relatively dry low-oscillation phase, and the third sub-period after the late 1990s or early 21st century was a dry medium-oscillation phase. It is worth noting that most extreme indices had an obvious positive linear trend in the third sub-period, which means that in the last 20 years, the precipitation extremes showed an increasing trend. This study could provide a certain scientific reference for regional climate change detection, water resources management, and disaster prevention in the HJLB and similar endorheic basins or inland arid regions.
A Conceptual Model of Groundwater Dynamics in the Catchment Area of the Zagorska Mrežnica Spring, the Karst Massif of Kapela Mountain
Authors: Buljan Renato , Pavlić Krešimir , Terzić Josip , Perković Dario
Published: September 2019

The investigation area is located in the world-famous Dinaric karst. This study presents a conceptual model of groundwater dynamics and its interaction with surface waters, extending from the natural water retention of the Drežničko Polje to the spring zone on the far side of the Kapela Mountain range, including a description of the regional groundwater flow in the Zagorska Mrežnica spring zone. The aim of this research was to determine the possibility of an artificial enlargement of the natural retention of this karst field. Large amounts of water could be exploited in this way for the existing hydroelectric power plants of Gojak and Lešće on the Donja Dobra River. The prolonged retention of the water wave in the Drežničko Polje would extend its efficiency in regards to the production of electrical energy, and simultaneously achieve the mitigation of floods that frequently occur in the broader area of Ogulin. Photogeological analysis of the area was performed, together with geological and hydrogeological mapping, groundwater tracing, measurements of water flows in streams and springs, exploratory drilling and measurements of water levels in 26 piezometric boreholes in the Drežničko Polje. Available meteorological data from nearby weather stations (Jasenak, Drežnica and Modruš) were exploited, as well as hydrological data collected specifically for the modelling of runoff. Based on the results of the data processing, this study has determined: (1) the dynamics of the groundwater flow from the Drežničko Polje to the spring area of the Zagorska Mrežnica, (2) the dynamics of recharge and discharge of the natural retention of the Drežničko Polje; and (3) an improved interpretation of the Zagorska Mrežnica karst spring dynamics. The obtained results of groundwater flow dynamics indicate typical karst flow conditions in the Dinaric Karst, but also contain some specific features.
A Low-Cost Water Quality Monitoring System for the Ayeyarwady River in Myanmar Using a Participatory Approach
Authors: Thatoe Nwe Win Thanda , Bogaard Thom , van de Giesen Nick
Published: September 2019

Newly developed mobile phone applications in combination with citizen science are used in different fields of research, such as public health monitoring, environmental monitoring, precipitation monitoring, noise pollution measurement and mapping, earth observation. In this paper, we present a low-cost water quality mobile phone measurement technique combined with sensor and test strips, and reported the weekly-collected data of three years of the Ayeyarwady River system by volunteers at seven locations and compared these results with the measurements collected by the lab technicians. We assessed the quality of the collected data and their reliability based on several indicators, such as data accuracy, consistency, and completeness. In this study, six local governmental staffs and one middle school teacher collected baseline water quality data with high temporal and spatial resolution. The quality of the data collected by volunteers was comparable to the data of the experienced lab technicians for sensor-based measurement of electrical conductivity and transparency. However, the lower accuracy (higher uncertainty range) of the indicator strips made them less useful in the Ayeyarwady with its relatively small water quality variations. We showed that participatory water quality monitoring in Myanmar can be a serious alternative for a more classical water sampling and lab analysis-based monitoring network, particularly as it results in much higher spatial and temporal resolution of water quality information against the very modest investment and running costs. This approach can help solving the invisible water crisis of unknown water quality (changes) in river and lake systems all over the world.
Características de la responsabilidad social empresarial de las Pymes en Ecuador. Caso de estudio: Hacienda Nueva Colonia
Authors: Morán Montalvo Christian Oswaldo , Cárdenas Zambrano Carlos Sebastián , Córdova Serrano Carmen Elena
Published: September 2019

La importancia de la responsabilidad social empresarial (RSE) reside en el impacto positivo que una empresa puede tener con la sociedad, el medio ambiente y la viabilidad económica. Dado que es un tema relativamente nuevo en Ecuador, la mayoría de las empresas grandes son las que cuentan con un programa de RSE, mientras que son pocas las pymes las que lo consideran un factor necesario para su desarrollo debido a que estas últimas tienen distintas prioridades y por lo tanto, no toman como preferente estructurar un programa de RSE. El objetivo principal de este trabajo fue determinar cuáles son las características principales de los programas de RSE en pymes, mediante el estudio de caso de la empresa Nueva Colonia. De manera que se la pueda aplicar en pymes del Ecuador. Los objetivos fueron alcanzados mediante una revisión bibliográfica, y una entrevista realizada al gerente de la Hacienda Nueva Colonia.
 
Palabras clave: responsabilidad Social Empresarial, Programas de RSE, Nueva Colonia, pymes.
 
ABSTRACT
The importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) lies in the positive impact that a company can have on society, the environment and economic viability. Since it is a new issue in Ecuador, most large companies have companies that have a CSR program, while they are the only words that are a necessary factor for its development. and therefore, they have not been structured as a CSR program. The main objective of this work was to determine the main characteristics of CSR programs in SMEs, by studying the case of the company Nueva Colonia. So that it can be applied in the SMEs of Ecuador. The objectives were achieved through a literature review, and an interview with the manager of the Hacienda Nueva Colonia.
 
Key words: corporate Social Responsibility, CSR programs, Nueva Colonia, SMEs
Relación entre la manufactura de frutas tropicales y la cadena de valor de bebidas no alcohólicas en Manabí-Ecuador
Authors: Monar Merchán Carlos Arturo
Published: September 2019

La manufactura de frutas tropicales y la industria alimentaria de bebidas no alcohólicas en la provincia de Manabí-Ecuador, atraviesa por algunas restricciones como insuficiente abastecimiento de materias primas, débiles capacidades locales, deficientes prácticas de producción y transformación, poca innovación tecnológica y escaso acceso a mercados locales, nacionales e internacionales. Se buscó determinar en qué medida influye en la cadena de valor mencionada. Los instrumentos de investigación utilizados se aplicaron a una muestra de población perteneciente al Servicio de Rentas Internas del Ecuador, con el Código Industrial Internacional Unificado, de elaboración de bebidas no alcohólicas (C-11-110-4). Los resultados evidencian que la manufactura de frutas tropicales se relaciona en, alta y significativamente (0.782) con la cadena de valor de la industria alimentaria de bebidas no alcohólicas de igual manera el abastecimiento (0.491), procesos de transformación (0.606), formación del talento humano (0.597), innovación tecnológica (0.657) y canales de comercialización (0.59).
 
Palabras clave: cadena de valor; industria alimentaria, abastecimiento materias primas; canales de comercialización, acceso a mercados.
 
ABSTRACT
The manufacture of tropical fruits and the food industry of non-alcoholic beverages in the province of Manabí-Ecuador, goes through some restrictions such as insufficient supply of raw materials, weak local capacities, poor production and processing practices, little technological innovation and poor access to local, national and international markets. It was sought to determine to what extent it influences the mentioned value chain. The research instruments used were applied to a sample of population belonging to the Internal Revenue Service of Ecuador, with the Unified International Industrial Code for the preparation of non-alcoholic beverages (C-11-110-4). The results show that the manufacture of tropical fruits is related in a high and significant way (0.782) to the value chain of the non-alcoholic food industry in the same way the supply (0.491), transformation processes (0.606), formation of the human talent (0.597), technological innovation (0.657) and marketing channels (0.59).
 
Key words: value chain; food industry; raw materials supply; marketing channels; Market access.
Conceptions of science teachers about the use of ICT in teaching practice
Authors: Rodrigues Maria Inês Ribas , Dos Santos Ludmylla Ribeiro
Published: September 2019

This qualitative study was carried out in two public schools located in the city of São Paulo, SP, Brazil, and involved two primary school science teachers (one from each school). Its objective was to discuss the relevance of continuing education of Science teachers with the emphasis on the use of ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) in their teaching practice, the challenges faced by the insertion of these technological resources in the school environment, and improvements in school facilities. These aspects guide the need for training that prepares the teacher to deal with this type of situation. Data collection was done through the application of two interviews, at different moments of the research. These results were presented at an international event, Enseñanza de las Ciencias 2017, and we were able to observe the difference of realities between the science education in developed countries and noted the relevance of discussing this topic in the context of science teaching in Brazil.

 

Keywords: Teaching practice; Challenges in Science Education; Information and Communication Technologies.
PREPARATION AND CHARACTERISATION OF ACETYLATED WHEAT STARCH SUPPORTING FOR DIABETES TREATMENT
Authors: Tran Thi Ngoc Uyen , Nguyen Khac Nam , Tran Huu Dung
Published: September 2019

Background: The purpose of the study was to prepare acetylated wheat starches which have amylase hydrolysis resistant capacity to use as functional food supporting for diabetes treatment.

Method: Acetate wheat starches were prepared by acetylation reaction of native wheat starch with different mole ratios of acetic anhydride. These starches were determined for the physicochemical properties by 1H-NMR, SEM, X-ray, DSC, solubility and swelling capacity, the resistant capacity by amylase hydrolysis in-vitro.

Results: Acetate wheat starches were prepared successfully with the increase in acetyl content and degree of substitution corresponding with the increase of anhydride acetic, which resulted in the change of physicochemical properties of the wheat starches, including constitution, solubility, swelling capacity and contributed to the increase in resistant starch content in the acetate wheat starches. The AC150-9 containing 2.42% acetyl with degree of substitution 0,094 and resistant starch 32,11% is acceptable by FDA guideline about food safety.

Conclusion: Acetate wheat starches contain low rate of digestive starch, while containing a higher proportion of resistant starch than natural wheat starch, possessing a high resistance to amylase activities. Thus, it is hope that this kind of starch to control the rapid increase of postprandual blood glucose response for diabetes treatments effectively.

Key words: Acetate wheat starch, substitution, DS, RS, amylase
ARFI ELASTOGRAPHY IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF THYROID NODULES
Authors: Dau Thi My Hanh , Nguyen Phuoc Bao Quan , Nguyen Thanh Thao
Published: September 2019

Objective: To describe the sonography characteritics of the thyroid nodules using Acoutic Radiation Force Impulse Imaging (ARFI), and to evaluate the role of ARFI technique combination with 2D Ultrasound in diagnosing thyroid nodules.

Methods: 2D Ultrasound and ARFI Elatography were caried out in 63 patients who have thyroid nodules. Images of 2D Ultrasound were classified according to Russ G. (French TIRADS). ARFI Elastography was performed by 2 techniques: “ Virtual Touch tissue imaging” in order to image of strain distribution and “Virtual Touch tissue quantification Imaging” to measure the shear wave velocity (SWV) in the tissue. Strain distribution was classified according to Xu’s VTI grading method. SWV was measured in the solid portions or suspicious regions of a nodule, avoiding cystic portions or calcifications. According to the results of pathology, we determine and compare the value between 2D Ultrasound plus ARFI elastography and 2D Ultrasound alone.

Results: 63 patients with thyroid nodules: 14 malignant nodules and 49 benign nodules. The mean SWV of benign nodules were 1.78±1.22 m/s, the mean SWV of malignant nodules were 7.09±2.87 m/s. The best cut-off point for SWV was 2.4 m/s. For VTI, grade IV was the best cut-off value in differentiation of benign and malignant thyroid nodules. 2D Ultrasound plus VTI and 2D Ultrasound plus VTQ: Se 100% and 100%, Sp 87.8% and 85.7%, PPV 70% and 66.7%, NPV 100% and 100%, Acc 90.5 % and 88.9% (K=0.761 and K=0.727).

Conclusions: In addition to the morphologic characteristics of thyroid nodules, ARFI provides information about lesion’s tissue elasticity, which can be useful tool in diferential diagnosis of thyroid nodules.

Key words: Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse Imaging (ARFI), thyroid nodules
Türkiye Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp Merkezleri ; Eğitim ve Uygulama İnovasyonu
Authors: MÜSLÜMANOĞLU Ahmet Yaser , TAYFUN Kanat
Published: September 2019

Geleneksel ve tamamlayıcı tıp insanlık tarihi kadar köklü bir geçmişe sahip olup 21.yüzyılın başında tüm dünyada tekrar popülarite kazanmıştır. Sadece geri kalmış ve gelişmekte olan ülkelerde değil sağlık sisteminde batı tıbbının baskın olduğu gelişmiş ülkelerde de kullanımı yaygınlaşmıştır. Geleneksel ve tamamlayıcı tıbbın yaygınlaşması ile tedavi standardizasyonu ve denetimi gerekliliği doğmuştur. Dünya Sağlık Örgütü ilk defa 2000 yılında “Geleneksel Tıp Araştırma ve Değerlendirme Metodolojileri Rehberi ” ,2014 yılında geleneksel tıbbın güvenli ve etkili kullanımını teşvik eden “Pekin Deklarasyonu”nu yayımlanmıştır. Ülkemiz de dünya ile eş zamanlı olarak 2014 yılında Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp Uygulamaları Yönetmeliğini yürürlüğe koymuştur. Bu yönetmeliğe göre bakanlık tarafından yalnızca hekimlere ve sadece kendi alanında uygulama yapmak üzere diş hekimlerine geleneksel ve tamamlayıcı tıp alanında uygulama yetkisi verilmiştir. 14 farklı alanda standardize eğitim tanımlanmış olup yetkili merkezler tarafından teorik ve pratik eğitim verilmektedir. Bundan sonraki süreçte geleneksel tıbbın sağlık sistemi ve batı tıbbı ile entegrasyonu, lisans ve yüksek lisans düzeyinde eğitim ve araştırmaların artması büyük bir gelişme olacaktır.
ANALISIS KELAYAKAN USAHA TERNAK KELINCI (Kelompok Ternak Kelinci “Sumber Lestari-- Desa Sumber Kecamatan Sanankulon Kabupaten Blitar)
Authors: Fajarini Rosyda
Published: September 2019

The study was started on May 1, 2012 through June 15, 2012 in the rabbit animal group "SUMBER LESTARI" Sumber Village Sanankulon subdistrict Blitar District. The purpose of this Thesis are to (1) determine the expenditure and revenue of the rabbit animal group "SUMBER LESTARI", (2) determine the feasibility of the rabbit animal group "SUMBER LESTARI".The material obtained from this study were in the rabbit animal group "SUMBER LESTARI" Sumber Village Sanankulon subdistrict Blitar District by the number of respondents as many as 17 people. The research method used in this thesis research is descriptive method that is trying to tell the current problem solving based on the data, so it presents research data, analyze and interpret.The results of this study were (1) The amount of expenditures and receipts of the rabbit animal group "SUMBER LESTARI" is an average of Rp. 1.971.529/year for expenses while receiving an average of Rp. 2.126.659/year, (2) The the rabbit animal group "SUMBER LESTARI" worth the try. It can be seen from the R/C by an average of 1.074 and the value of B /C average of 0.074.Keywords : rabbit, feasibility, recipts.
PENGARUH PENAMBAHAN EKSTRAK BUAH MENGKUDU (Morinda citrifolia Linn) DALAM PENGENCER TERHADAP MOTILITAS SPERMATOZOA PADA SEMEN CAIR SAPI BALI
Authors: Sabile Sahiruddin , Toleng Abdul Latief , Yusuf Muhammad , - Zulkharnaim , Firmiaty Sri , Idrus Muhammad , - Nasriyanto
Published: September 2019

The processing of liquid cement is likely to decrease sperm motility. It can be caused by the oxidative reaction to increase the amount of free radicals. Noni (Morinda citrifolia Linn) contains many antioxidants that can serve counteract free radicals. This study aims to determine the addition of extracts of noni (Morinda citrifolia Linn) in order to maintain the individual motility of spermatozoa in the semen liquid Bali cattle. This research was conducted at the Laboratory of Animal Reproduction Semen Processing Unit Faculty of Animal Husbandry Hasanuddin University Makassar. Extracts of noni fruit (Morinda citrifolia Linn) effect on sperm motility (P <0.05). Storage P0 at 3 h to day 2 showed higher motility. Concentration 0,02 gr/ml (P1) gives the best results in maintaining sperm motility on day 3rd to 5th. Extracts of noni fruit (Morinda citrifolia Linn) can retain sperm motility because many contain many antioxidants that serve to neutralize free radicals cause a decrease in sperm motility during equilibration at 5 0C.
PENGARUH SUSU SKIM TERHADAP PENAMPILAN AYAM PETELUR JANTAN
Authors: Dianto Sulis , Kunharjati Agustina Widyasworo
Published: September 2019

One effort to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the production of roaster of broiler, can be done by improving the quality of feed is one of the skim milk dairy products in the solid form with the potential to supply poultry feed. Skim milk contains all the nutrients of milk except fat and vitamins that are fat soluble. This study aims to determine the effect of skim milk on the growth of roaster of broiler. Research using experimental design completely randomized design (completely randomized design). The material used in this study were male laying hens as much as 60 head aged 30 days to harvest at the age of 58 days. Skim milk from KUD Cement. Feed used is BR 1 of PT. Cargill Indonesia. Stage enclosure for maintenance, measuring 2m x 1.5m and is divided into 12 plots and each 1 plot size is 50cm x 50cm, each plot contained 5 chickens. The variables in this study were feed consumption, body weight gain and feed conversion ratio (FCR). Research results obtained three conclusions that the addition of skim milk significant effect (P> 0.01) on increasing body weight roaster of broiler P1 = 120 g / head / week. The addition of milk skin significant (P> 0.01) in penurunkan figures feed convertion ratio (FCR) roaster of broiler by P1 = 1.90. Treatment addition of 7.5% skim milk gives the best effect on improving body weight gain and feed convertion ratio (FCR) of roaster of broiler. Based on the results of the study suggested, adding skim milk can be used up to the level of 7.5% in the diet of roaster of broiler, but need considering economic efficiency.Keywords: Skim milk, appearance, roaster of broiler.
STRATEGI PEMASARAN OBAT HEWAN SATWA UNGGUL BLITAR (Studi Kasus Di Desa Sanankulon Kecamatan Sanankulon Kabupaten Blitar)
Authors: Faozi Imam , Arnyke Errythrina Vinnifera
Published: September 2019

The purpose of this study is to examine the marketing mix strategy that has been applied by the company in its business development, to analyze the internal and external environment condition faced by PT Satwa Unggul, to formulate the best alternative marketing strategy of PT Satwa Unggul by considering the company environment to be able to compete in the market. The data collected are primary and secondary data that are qualitative. The research method used in this study is primary data obtained from recording and direct interviews with leaders, employees, and customers. Secondary data is obtained from the report where the company jemen and literature in the form of library materials taken from previous research. The marketing mix strategy being carried out by the company concerning the product strategy (brand awareness on the brand), pricing strategy (discounted price), distribution strategy (three distribution patterns), and promotion strategy (animal inspection and free extension services) can assessed to have successfully accommodate the needs of customers with various facilities and company benefits. Based on internal environmental analysis with Descriptive Analysis can be seen that PT Satwa Unggul has a strong internal position. This means the company has been able to use its strengths and overcome its weaknesses quite well. Company's strengths include: affordable prices, good product quality, specialized workforces, sales with personal selling, and sales targets for large farmers. While the weakness of the company in the form: strong influence of leadership, capital limitations, delay in delivery time, no exclusive contract with customers, and the absence of R & D activities. Based on the analysis of the external environment with Descriptive Analysis, it can be seen that PT Satwa Unggul also has a strong external position, because it has been able to take advantage of opportunities and can handle the threat quite well .keyword : marketing strategy, satwa unggul, analyze
PENGARUH PENAMBAHAN EKSTRAK KAYU SECANG (Caesalpinia sappan L.) DAN MINYAK IKAN LEMURU SEBAGAI ADITIF PAKAN TERHADAP DAYA SIMPAN TELUR DAN KOLESTEROL TELUR PUYUH
Authors: Lestari Liana Indah , Widigdyo Anang , Arikustanti Nita Opi
Published: September 2019

This research aimed is to determine the effect of Secang extract addition and sardinella fish oil as feed additive on eggs performance and production of quail. The 98 quails and 10 weeks divided into 4 groups with unequal replication using the completely randomized design. The treatment which are P0 (based ration), P1 (based ration + 0,2% secang extract + 4% sardinella fish oil), P2 (based ration + 0,4% secang extract + 4% sardinella fish oil), P3 (based ration + 0,6% secang extract + 4% sardinella fish oil). The parameters observed were length storage time of egg, egg cholesterol rate. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Duncan ’s analysis. The results showed that Secang extract addition and sardinella fish oil were increase egg cholesterol (P<0.05) and not significantly (P>0.05) on length storage time of egg and production of quail. Keywords: Caesalpinia sappan L., egg cholesterol, Sardinella fish oil.
RENT ACCOUNTING SYSTEM AS AN INTERNAL CONTROL EFFORTS
Authors: Ekasari Mukti Novia , Masrunik Endah , Elvianita Martanti Diana
Published: September 2019

This study aims to describe how the flow of the accounting system for leasing goods as an internal control effort used by UPT Rusunawa is in accordance with the accounting system theory and internal control. This research method uses descriptive qualitative method using observation, interview, documentation and literature study techniques. Data analysis techniques are used triangulation techniques. The sample in this study is UPT Rusunawa, Public Housing Office, Blitar city. The results of this study, namely the rental accounting system and internal control at the Flat Unit UPT in practice there are still less in accordance with the theory. This is because there are multiple tasks in the administration. The administration section here is also part of the payment. But in its implementation the system that has been implemented has been going well because every process carried out has been very detailed