Economical Source Research Articles

Temporally delayed, dual-pulse, dual-wavelength photoacoustic imaging (TD-DP-DW-PAI): advancing capabilities of a commercial light-emitting diode-based photoacoustic imaging system with a pulsed laser diode

Photoacoustic imaging (PAI) is a hybrid imaging technique providing optical contrast with ultrasound resolution for deep tissue imaging. Typical light sources used for PAI include pulsed lasers, pulsed laser diode (PLD), and light-emitting diodes (LED). LED is the most economical light source among these, and there are commercial photoacoustic + ultrasound imaging (PAUS) systems with LED-based light illumination. However, LEDs have low energy per pulse compared to pulsed lasers and PLDs, leading to limited applications. Therefore, in this work, we demonstrate temporally delayed, dual-pulse, dual-wavelength photoacoustic imaging (TD-DP-DW-PAI) using an additional PLD illumination to enhance the performance and functionality of a commercial LED-based PAUS system. Three key improvements were demonstrated with phantom imaging — image quality enhancement, imaging frame rate enhancement, and functional imaging enhancement (multispectral imaging) without compromising the frame rate. We demonstrated signal-to-noise improvement by a factor of two, non-linear doubling of the frame rate, and multi-wavelength imaging without compromising the LED's low energy illumination and frame rate.

COMPARISON OF FLOATING NET CAGES CULTIVATION TECHNIQUES IN JATIGEDE RESERVOIR AND JATILUHUR RESERVOIR: REGULATION, MANAGEMENT, CULTIVATION SYSTEM, AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Aquaculture using the Floating Net Cage (FNCs) system has rapidly developed and become an important economic source, but it also poses environmental pressures such as pollution and eutrophication. Jatigede and Jatiluhur Reservoirs serve as examples of water bodies affected by the accumulation of aquaculture waste, despite having different legal statuses and management approaches. This study aims to evaluate the environmental impacts of FNCs aquaculture in both reservoirs and to formulate sustainable management strategies that balance economic and ecological aspects. The findings indicate that FNCs activities are prohibited in Jatigede through local regulations; however, illegal practices persist due to economic reasons, with simple farming systems centered on Nile tilapia. In contrast, Jatiluhur allows FNCs operations under a permit system, but the number of cages has exceeded the environmental carrying capacity, with more intensive farming practices using high levels of supplementary feed. Ecological impacts such as eutrophication occur in both reservoirs, with a more severe scale in Jatiluhur. Sustainable management efforts are urgently needed, including alternative livelihoods, regulation of FNCs numbers, and education on environmentally friendly aquaculture practices.

Hydrogel Formulation Containing Crocin Rich Extract from Nyctanthes Arbor-tristis and Bukuchiol-rich Extract from the Seeds of Psoralea Corylifolia Exhibits Antiaging and Sunscreen Activity

Background/Introduction: Bakuchiol is a meroterpene and is utilized in many cosmetic preparations in the form of Psoralea corylifolia as a substitute for retinoids. The calyx of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis flowers is rich in carotenoids. The standardized ethanolic extract of the calyx indicated the presence of a yellow-orange colour pigment, which was found identical to crocin, an apocarotenoid present in saffron. Hence, orange-coloured tubular calyx of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis can be utilized as a substitute for saffron. Objective: To utilize the tubular calyx of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis as an economical source of crocin and Psoralea corylifolia seed as a source of bakuchiol for the development of a stable hydrogel formulation as well as evaluation of its antiaging activity and sunscreen proper Methodology: Crocin-rich ethanolic extract calyx of Nyctanthes arbortristis was prepared using the maceration method. The seeds of Psoralea corylifolia were extracted using petroleum ether (60-80) using a Soxhlet extractor. Hydrogel formulation was prepared using crocin-rich extract and bakuchiol-rich extract. Evaluation of formulation was carried out, and results were found to be within the specification range. The antiaging activity was evaluated using an in vitro antielastase method. The formulation exhibits good antiaging activity. The sunscreen activity was assessed using the sun protection factor and boot star rating. Results: The hydrogel formulation showed promising antiaging activity by inhibiting collagenase and elastase enzymes. The formulation showed an SPF of 13.72 and a Boot Star rating of 2, indicating it is an effective sunscreen agent. Also, the formulation was found to be a good moisturizing agent. The present study concluded that crocin and bakuchiol extract formulations effectively combat ageing process and also act as good sunscreen agents. Conclusion: The topical hydrogel formulation demonstrated promising anti-aging properties and moderate UV protection.

A semi-synthetic heparan sulfate material that potentiates BMP2-mediated osteogenesis.

A semi-synthetic heparan sulfate material that potentiates BMP2-mediated osteogenesis.

Construction of Responsibility Character of Elementary School Students through Karawo Local Wisdom Values

Purpose of the study: This study aims to analyze the use of local wisdom as a means of constructing the character of responsibility of elementary school students and the factors that hinder these efforts. Methodology: Using descriptive qualitative methods, data were collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and documentation studies from various sources such as teachers, principals, parents, Karawo craftsmen, as well as traditional leaders, with purposive sampling techniques and data validity was maintained through triangulation of sources, techniques, and time. Main Findings: The research findings show that Karawo local wisdom is able to construct students' responsibility character through a learning process that emphasizes perseverance, thoroughness, and commitment in completing tasks. These values are integrated in various subjects, so students learn responsibility contextually and thoroughly. Embroidery activities encourage students to be disciplined, thorough, and consistent, while fostering a sense of responsibility for the preservation of local culture that they inherit and are proud of. Novelty/Originality of this study: The novelty of this study lies in the utilization of Karawo as a medium of character education. So far, Karawo has been seen more as an economic source, it has not been maximally utilized in the realm of education, especially for student character building

Design features of devices for diffusion welding in a glow discharge

Nowadays, to obtain precision joints from dissimilar materials, industry mainly uses diffusion welding, which is carried out by pressure in the solid state at temperatures below the melting point of the materials being joined. Currently, diffusion welding uses induction (high-frequency), radiation heating, and heating in low-temperature glow discharge plasma. The first two methods, due to their technological features, require deep vacuum for welding and, accordingly, the presence of structurally complex and expensive vacuum systems in the installations. The later developed method of diffusion welding in a glow discharge turned out to be significantly more technological and economical, since the conversion of electrical energy into thermal energy in this case is carried out directly on the surface of the parts being welded, i.e. direct heating with high thermal efficiency is implemented. The purpose of the work is to analyze physical and technical characteristics of the glow discharge as an energy source for diffusion welding and to determine the main design approaches to the practical implementation of these processes. Technical and technological features of glow discharge as a promising high-tech and economical energy source for diffusion welding processes, which are currently gaining significant popularity, are considered. The structure of glow discharge diffusion welding installations is considered. The main components of the mechanical and energy complexes of the installations are given. The main technical requirements for individual installation components are formulated and practical examples of their implementation are given, which will help specialists in the design and manufacture of appropriate equipment.

Water-Processable Polymer Nanoparticles: a New Visible-Light Photosensitizer for Artificial Photosynthesis.

Solar-energy-based bio- and photocatalytic hybrid systems offer a sustainable approach to reducing carbon emissions by converting carbon dioxide (CO2) into valuable chemicals and fuels, such as carbon monoxide (CO), formate, or methanol. A key strategy involves coenzyme-dependent oxidoreductases, necessitating efficient and cost-effective coenzyme regeneration methods using economical energy sources. Herein, the oxidized form of methylviologen dichloride (MV2+) is reduced to MV•+ under visible light using triethanolamine (TEOA) as an electron donor and conjugated-polymer-based water-processable nanoparticles (WPNPs) as both photosensitizer and mediator, achieving a regeneration efficiency of ≈95%. The regenerated cofactor enables the enzymatic conversion of sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) to formate via Candida boidinii formate dehydrogenase (CbFDH) biocatalyzed reaction, with a yield of ≈20%. Formate production is validated by adding nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), which is reduced to NADH thanks to the synthesized formate and CbFDH, thus leading to a simple NADH regeneration method. To the best of authors' knowledge, this is the first successful use of conjugated polymers in the form of WPNPs as both photosensitizer and mediator in a photocatalytic system for selective coenzyme regeneration, facilitating an efficient bicarbonate-to-formate conversion.

Factors Affecting Adoption International Financial Reporting Standards in an Emerging Economy: Empirical Evidence in Vietnam

This article explores the factors that influence the adoption of international financial reporting standards in an emerging economy like Vietnam. The research model was tested by surveying 280 employees and managers of large enterprises in 2 cities, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, using the structure equation modeling (SEM) analysis technique. The study results show that four factors, namely economic growth, political, cultural, and legal, enterprise size and capital sources, perceptions of enterprise owners, and qualifications of accountants are positively related to adopting international financial reporting standards in Vietnam. Additionally, the model test results show that adopting international financial reporting standards is related to the benefits of adopting international financial reporting standards at enterprises in Vietnam. The research results proposed several implications for improving the adoption of international financial reporting standards in Vietnamese enterprises.

Multinutritional Blocks in Ruminants: A Strategic Look from Agribusiness through Meta-Analysis

The production of ruminants in grazing systems represents a key alternative to achieve sustainable food, since fodder is one of the most economical and natural sources for these animals. However, one of the most critical challenges in many regions of the world are recurring droughts, which limit the availability of grass and affect livestock productivity. Faced with this scenario, multinutritional blocks (BMN) arise as an accessible and effective solution, since they provide energy, protein and mineral supplementation during the dry season, improving the digestibility of fodder and animal performance. This study aimed to carry out a meta -analysis of scientific literature on BMN published since 2017, with emphasis on its use in cattle, sheep, goats, buffalos and other ruminant species, both for the production of meat and milk. Data collection was carried out through the Scopus and Google Scholar platforms, using inclusion criteria focused on scientific articles focused on the formulation and application of BMN, and excluding thesis, technical articles, interviews and non -scientific materials. The results suggest that, although there is evidence of the benefits of BMN, there is still a significant need for deeper research in this field. This technology represents a strategic tool to improve the profitability of the agricultural sector, especially in climate stress contexts.

Enzymatic Glycosylation of Ganoderma Terpenoid via Bacterial Glycosyltransferases and Glycoside Hydrolases.

Glycosylation is a critical enzymatic modification that involves the attachment of sugar moieties to target compounds, considerably influencing their physicochemical and biological characteristics. This review explored the role of two primary enzyme classes-glycosyltransferases (GTs) and glycoside hydrolases (GHs, glycosidases)-in catalyzing the glycosylation of natural products, with a specific focus on Ganoderma triterpenoids. While GTs typically use activated sugar donors, such as uridine diphosphate glucose, certain GHs can leverage more economical sugar sources, such as sucrose and starch, through transglycosylation. This paper also reviewed strategies for producing novel terpenoid glycosides, particularly recently isolated bacterial GTs and GHs capable of glycosylating terpenoids and flavonoids. It summarized the newly synthesized glycosides' structures and biotransformation mechanisms, enhanced aqueous solubility, and potential applications. The regioselectivity and substrate specificity of GTs and GHs in catalyzing O-glycosylation (glucosylation) at distinct hydroxyl and carboxyl groups were compared. Furthermore, a special case in which the novel glycosylation reactions were mediated by GHs, including the formation of unique glycoside anomers, was included. The advantages and specific capabilities of GT/GH enzymes were evaluated for their potential in biotechnological applications and future research directions. Novel fungal triterpenoid glycosides produced through various glycosidases and sugars is expected to expand their potential applications in the future.

Stock Transaction Manipulation

The Indonesian capital market continues to grow rapidly with the increasing number of retail investors in recent years. However, this growth is also accompanied by the phenomenon of stock transaction manipulation, especially in small-cap stocks or known as "gorengan" stocks. This manipulation practice creates price distortions that do not reflect the company's fundamentals, thereby harming investors and diminishing trust in the integrity of the capital market. This research aims to identify transaction patterns of risky stocks and penny stocks, analyze the factors causing stock transaction manipulation, and evaluate its impact on the stability of the capital market in Indonesia. The research method used is qualitative descriptive with a literature review approach. Data were obtained from reports by the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX), the Financial Services Authority (OJK), academic journals, and trusted economic news sources. The analysis techniques used include descriptive analysis and content analysis with data source triangulation to enhance the validity of the findings. The research results indicate that the lack of transparency from issuers, suboptimal regulations, and low financial literacy among retail investors are the main factors that enable stock manipulation. The impacts include high price volatility, potential significant losses for investors, and a decline in trust in the capital market. To address this issue, strengthening regulations, utilizing early detection systems based on data analytics technology and artificial intelligence (AI), as well as providing financial education for retail investors to enhance their understanding of investment risks, are necessary. With these measures, it is hoped that the stability and integrity of the Indonesian capital market can be better maintained.

The Poor Post-Covid-19 in Bali Province

Bali as a barometer of the tourism economy in Indonesia. The problem that has arisen after the Covid-19 pandemic is the increasing percentage of poor people in Bali. One of the provinces that is quite successful in implementing poverty reduction programs is Bali. In March 2020 the percentage of poverty in Bali Province reached 3.78% and became the province with the lowest poverty percentage in Indonesia. After Covid-19, Bali's economy collapsed, as seen from the lack of hotel occupancy, the laying off of hotel and company employees which had an impact on other sectors and the economy slumped to -10.98% in the second quarter of 2020, then decreased to -12.28% in the third quarter of 2020, to -12.21% in the fourth quarter of 2020, and slightly increased in the first quarter of 2021 to -9.85%. This condition caused the percentage of poor people in Bali to increase to 4.45% in September 2020, fortunately the inflation rate in Bali did not experience a significant increase. This study uses a quantitative approach and uses primary data sources from government data and observations in the field, secondary data sources from literature and previous research. Findings in the field show that an economy that relies on a fragile tourism sector with issues of security, disease and global sentiment cannot be the only god of help, efforts must be made to generate new economic sources such as agriculture and fisheries as Bali's economic locomotive and tourism as a bonus.

ANALISIS MODERASI KURS DAN CONSUMER CONFIDENCE INDEX PADA HUBUNGAN INFLASI DAN SUKU BUNGA TERHADAP IHSG

Global uncertainty, inflation and interest rates are major challenges to the performance of the Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) in Indonesia. The exchange rate and Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) are often considered as moderating factors that can strengthen or weaken the effect of inflation and interest rates on the JCI. This study examines the effect of inflation and interest rates on the JCI for the period 2014-2023 with exchange rate and CCI as moderating variables. Secondary data obtained from the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) and other economic sources were analyzed using quantitative methods, including descriptive analysis, classical assumption test, and Moderated Regression Analysis (MRA). The study identified that inflation has no significant effect on the JCI, while interest rates have a negative impact. The exchange rate did not moderate the relationship between inflation and interest rates with the JCI, but the CCI proved to strengthen the relationship. The findings contribute significantly to the academic and practical understanding of the capital market in Indonesia. In addition, the study results can be a strategic reference for investors and policy makers to formulate more appropriate investment decisions to deal with stock market fluctuations due to inflation and interest rates.

Enhancement of small wind turbine efficiency by using nozzle at entrance

Wind energy is among the most economical energy sources available nowadays. Renewables, such as wind and solar energy, have become key elements of the global energy mix. Wind energy can generate large amounts of electrical energy through wind turbines that exploit the movement of air. In this study, a horizontal-axis wind turbine was simulated to measure its productivity according to the weather conditions of the city of Kirkuk and increase its efficiency when supported by a nozzle. the wind speed equation was applied to the entrance of a wind turbine, and the effect of narrowing the section area was described by a nozzle in front of the entrance to the turbine through pressure and speed distribution lines. The effect of turbine efficiency was studied after supporting it with a nozzle and narrowing the section area. The system was simulated using the ANSYS 2024 simulation program (Fluid Flow CFX). The turbine was designed in the form of a uniformly loaded engine disc to find the most efficient turbine.

The Role of IMF and International Financial Security: Ensuring External Sector Stability for Nigeria

This study examines The Role of IMF and International Financial Security: Ensuring External Sector Stability for Nigeria. It explores factors such as inflation, exchange rates, interest rates, and investment as critical determinants of external sector stability for Nigeria. Utilizing a quantitative research design, the study employs an econometric model to estimate the effects of these variables on external sector stability. The methodology involves data collection from reliable economic sources, followed by statistical analysis using Auto Regressive Distributed Lag Model (ARDL) to determine the significance and strength of relationships among the variables. The findings reveal that money supply is the primary long-run determinant of exchange rate movements in Nigeria, with excess liquidity leading to currency depreciation. In the short run, past inflation, trade openness, and entrepreneurial activities significantly influence exchange rate fluctuations. Trade openness contributes to exchange rate depreciation, suggesting that Nigeria’s import dependence exerts pressure on the foreign exchange market. Meanwhile, increased domestic enterprise activity strengthens the exchange rate, indicating the importance of production-driven economic policies. The presence of a stable long-run relationship, as confirmed by the error correction term, highlights the need for policy measures that balance short-term exchange rate volatility with long-term external sector stability. Based on these findings, the study recommends policy measures such as maintaining moderate inflation levels, stabilizing exchange rates through appropriate monetary policies, and fostering investment. Also, long-term structural reforms aimed at diversifying the economy, improving foreign exchange earnings through non-oil exports, and strengthening financial sector development will be crucial in sustaining external sector stability. By adopting these measures, Nigeria can enhance its economic resilience, mitigate external sector vulnerabilities, and promote sustainable exchange rate stability in the long run. Keywords: International Financial Security; External Sector Stability; Inflation, Exchange rate; Nigeria

Garlic consumption and risk of diabetes mellitus in the Chinese elderly: A population-based cohort study.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major public health problem worldwide. Numerous traditional plants are used for preventing DM. However, limited evidence supports the association between garlic consumption and DM. Data used in this study was from the 2008-2018 Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey. Data on garlic consumption was obtained by questionnaire, and DM by self-reported diagnosis. A multivariate adjusted Cox regression model was used to estimate haz-ard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) to determine the incidence of DM. A total of 1927 participants were included in this study, of which 24.08% consumed garlic daily and 20.08% developed DM. The HR for daily garlic consumption decreased by 42%, when compared to rare or no garlic con-sumption. Our subgroup analyses revealed that daily garlic consumption significantly reduced the risk of DM in older adults aged 65-79, rural, non-drinkers informal education, financial dependence, and working in agriculture (aged 65-79: HR = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.36-0.80; rural area: HR = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.29-0.77; non-drinkers: HR = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.41-0.86; informal education: HR = 0.46, 95% CI: 0.29-0.74; financial dependence: HR = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.23-0.65; agricultural work: HR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.32-0.76). Garlic consumption can reduce the risk of DM in older Chinese adults. This benefit varies by age, current residence, drinking status, education level, occupation, and economic source. Future efforts should focus on developing dietary intervention strategies that consider demographic, educational, financial, and occupational disparities to effectively prevent diabetes in older populations.

Recycling waste tires as an economical carbon source for developing high-value hard carbon anodes for potassium/sodium-ion batteries

Recycling waste tires as an economical carbon source for developing high-value hard carbon anodes for potassium/sodium-ion batteries

Non-timber forest products from Tuak Aren (Arenga sp.) as an economic source of income for the Batak community

Abstract Parmaksian District, one of the sub-districts in Toba Regency, is the focus of research because it is the main source of income for local people in the agricultural and smallholder plantation sectors. Generally, the growth of palm trees in this area is still natural and not widely cultivated. This research was conducted to explore the potential prospects for developing sugar palm plants in Tangga Batu I Village Toba Regency. This aims to provide information about sugar palm and how to use it optimally. The analysis used is financial feasibility analysis. Based on the results in Tangga Batu I Village, the community processes palm sugar in the form of sap into a traditional alcoholic drink. The economic value obtained from this type of sap water production which is fermented using Laru wood to produce traditional alcoholic drinks or tuak aren in Tangga Batu I Tuak Village is IDR. 811,870,000 per year. Based on the feasibility analysis of tuak aren production in Tangga Batu I Village, it was declared feasible to carry out because the NPV is 371.342.915,50, the BC R obtained being greater than 1, namely 30,61 and IRR with a value of 319%.

Extraction of silica from rice husk for the production and optimization of metallurgical-grade silicon for potential engineering applications

Conventional methods of silicon production; and carbothermic reduction, primarily rely on quartz or silica sand, which involves high-energy consumption and poses significant environmental challenges. Amidst this backdrop, the exploration of alternative sources for silicon extraction has become imperative. The utilization of rice husks which are considered renewable resources are produced every year in Nigeria. Despite its non-commercial value and causing environmental pollution, its ash content is rich in silica (SiO2) and has become an economic potential source for the production of silicon. The high-purity metallurgical-grade silicon (MG-Si) was prepared by employing a successive acid leaching process followed by the reduction of rice husk ash (RHA) using magnesium as the reducing agent. The experiment was designed using a two-level-three-factor Box-Behnken Design (BBD), and 17 experimental runs were generated with operating process conditions of annealed temperature of 700-800oC, ratio of HF:H2SO4 (1-9) and RHA: Mg ratio 1-1.5. The optimized MG-Si yield of 98.015 wt% was obtained at the process conditions of 799.365°C calcination temperature, 1:8.987 HF:H2SO4 ratio, and RHA: Mg ratio of 1:1.381. The produced MG-Si were characterized using XRF analysis and the results obtained indicated a MG-Si purity of 97.06wt% Si and 2.89wt% impurity respectively. Also, the XRF result showed that the impurities detected were Fe, K, Ca, Al, Ti, Cu, and Mg. The R2 value of 0.9810 was achieved while the adjusted R² values of 0.9565 for the metallurgical grade silicon yield were in reasonable agreement with the predicted R² values of 0.9429, since their difference is less than 0.2. All of these validations showed that the experimental data for metallurgical grade silicon yield from rice husk ash matched the model's projected value accurately. Thus, optimizing the silicon production process has proven to be instrumental in achieving higher yields and better product quality. This not only enhances the overall efficiency of the production process but also contributes to the economic viability of silicon extraction from unconventional sources.

Investigation of Physical and Mechanical Properties of Polyester Matrix Polymer Composites Containing Walnut Shell Waste and CEN Sand

The aim of this study is to investigate the potential of using walnut shells, which are agricultural waste, in polymer composites in order to reduce the environmental impacts and contribute to the production of sustainable materials. In this direction, Flame Retardant Polyester (FRP) was used as a binder in the production of composite materials, while standard CEN sand and Waste Walnut Shells (WWS) were used as filler materials. While creating composite mixture groups, FRP was preferred at 50% and filler at 50%. Then, while keeping the FRP ratio constant, WWS was replaced by standard CEN sand at 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% by volume. The apparent density, water absorption, porosity, ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) and compressive strengths of the produced polymer composites were investigated. In the specimens where WWS was replaced by 100% with standard CEN sand, a decrease of 27%, 20% and 28% was detected in compressive strengths, UPV and apparent density values, respectively, compared to the control specimen. The most negative behavior in terms of water absorption was observed in the specimen coded WS75 with a water absorption rate of 0.80%. The use of WWS in polymer composite production is evaluated as an economical raw material source, contributes to the prevention of environmental pollution and is also important with its potential to be recycled into the economy.