Optimal Level Research Articles

The Effect of Product Quality, Price and Sales Location of Nugin Lamping Tofu on Consumer Satisfaction

Tofu lanting nuggets are one type of snack food that is very popular with the public. Along with increasing consumer awareness of product quality, competition in the lanting tofu market is getting tougher. The focus of the study aims to determine the extent to which "the influence of product quality, price and sales location of Tahu Lamping Nugin" plays a role in influencing the level of customer satisfaction. This research was conducted using quantitative as a research method. Meanwhile, data collection was carried out involving questionnaire surveys and other literature studies. After the data was collected, it was analyzed using the regression test using SPSS software. The conclusion from the results of the research analysis shows that product quality, price and sales location of Lamping Nugin Tahu have an effect on customer satisfaction. In an effort to achieve an optimal level of customer satisfaction, companies need to focus on maintaining and improving product quality and determining prices that remain balanced with the value offered. Meanwhile, the sales location is still important to attract consumer interest, but this needs to be balanced by offering products of good quality and reasonable prices.

Exploring stroke survivors’ and physiotherapists’ perspectives of the potential for markerless motion capture technology in community rehabilitation

IntroductionMany stroke survivors do not receive optimal levels of personalised therapy to support their recovery. Use of technology for stroke rehabilitation has increased in recent years to help minimise gaps in service provision. Markerless motion capture technology is currently being used for musculoskeletal and occupational health screening and could offer a means to provide personalised guidance to stroke survivors struggling to access rehabilitation.AimsThis study considered context, stakeholders, and key uncertainties surrounding the use of markerless motion capture technology in community stroke rehabilitation from the perspectives of stroke survivors and physiotherapists with a view to adapting an existing intervention in a new context.MethodsThree focus groups were conducted with eight stroke survivors and five therapists. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.ResultsFive themes were identified: limited access to community care; personal motivation; pandemic changed rehabilitation practice; perceptions of technology; and role of markerless technology for providing feedback.ConclusionsParticipants identified problems associated with the access of community stroke rehabilitation, exacerbated by Covid-19 restrictions. Participants were positive about the potential for the use of markerless motion capture technology to support personalised, effective stroke rehabilitation in the future, providing it is developed to meet stroke survivor specific needs.

Does the optimal level of illumination improve both visual functions and visual comfort in schoolchildren with low vision?

Lighting modification is commonly performed by optometrists and occupational therapists to enhance visibility and visual comfort among schoolchildren with low vision. The purpose of this study is to determine the optimal illumination level for visual function and visual comfort of schoolchildren with low vision and the relationship between them. A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess five levels of illumination ranging from 125 lux to 2000 lux to determine the optimal illumination for visual functions and visual comfort in schoolchildren with low vision from a special education school for blind in Malaysia. Purposive sampling was done to recruit forty-two schoolchildren with low vision for this study. Visual functions assessed were visual acuity, measured using the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study LogMAR chart at distance and near, contrast sensitivity (CS) measured using the Pelli-Robson chart at distance and the Mars CS chart at near. Reading speed was determined using the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Malay Language Related Word Reading Text test chart. Subjects were asked to rate their visual comfort using a validated questionnaire at the end of each measurement of visual functions and reading speed for the different illumination levels. Visual acuity and contrast sensitivity at distance and near, visual comfort and reading speed improved significantly with increase in illumination levels (p<0.05). However, the interaction between illumination level and level of low vision was not significant (p>0.05). Visual comfort was significantly associated with visual function (p<0.05), while direct association between visual comfort and illumination level was not significant (p>0.05). Optimal illumination for improvement of visual function, reading speed and visual comfort range from 276.67 lux to 701.59 lux. Majority of the schoolchildren with low vision had improved visual function, reading speed and visual comfort with increased illumination. Illumination of at least 600 lux is recommended for maximum visual functioning and visual comfort of schoolchildren with low vision.

Estimation of isoniazid by digital image colorimetry: an integration of green chemistry and smartphone technology

BackgroundThis study proposes a simple digital image colorimetric method using a smartphone for the quantitative analysis of isoniazid in pharmaceutical medications. The analytical methodology employed in this study involved the utilization of the reaction between isoniazid and FC reagent under alkaline conditions. The chemical reaction led to the creation of a complex with a blue-gray color, exhibiting a peak absorption at a wavelength of 760 nm. An Android application was employed to perform a smartphone-based determination based on separating the captured color into different color channels such as red, blue, green, etc. The experimental procedure involved the utilization of three smartphones for the determination, which was subsequently followed by a comparative analysis of the results obtained from these devices using spectrophotometric measurements.ResultsThe B channel had the highest level of optimization in terms of analytical parameters. The limits of detection (LOD) were 0.586, 2.478, and 1.396 µg/ml for S1, S2, and S3, respectively, and for the spectrophotometer, it was found to be 0.416 µg/ml. Similarly, LOQs were determined as 1.673, 7.511, 4.232, and 1.302 µg/ml. A %RSD of 1.3 for precision and an LOD of 0.013 g dm−3 were obtained for the spectroscopic method. The % recovery in the accuracy study was found to be 99.69, 101.804, 109.28, and 100.13 for S1, S2, S3, and spectrophotometer, respectively.ConclusionThe colorimetric results from smartphone application are similar to those from spectrophotometric analyses.

Exploring Alternative Behavioural Trajectories in Entrepreneurship Education in Universities

This Paper explored alternative behavioural trajectories navigable to address entrepreneurship education issues in Nigeria's public universities. Entrepreneurship education's current viability and capacity utilization have not gained the impetus to drive students’ practical application development and add significant value to economic development. This work relied on ethnography using the participant observer method to get relevant contextual specifics to give insights on traversable alternatives that culminate in the much-desired economic development and growth of individuals and the nation at large. It was concluded that behavioural alterations that gravitate towards trajectories that deviate significantly from the dismal state of affairs obtainable in the current pedagogy are the panacea to the apparent quagmire. It was suggested amongst others that driving emotional attachment, improvisation, and the use of alternative sources of funding are avenues of attaining optimal level benefits of entrepreneurship education. This paper contributes to the body of knowledge of entrepreneurship development and knowledge efficiency.

Biomass to biofuel: Palm kernel shells as catalyst supports for enhanced biodiesel production

AbstractThe use of agricultural biomass fibers, specifically palm kernel shell (PKS), has significant potential to enhance biodiesel production. This approach overcomes economic barriers and contributes to sustainability by repurposing agricultural biomass. This study explores the effectiveness of PKS as a cost‐effective and sustainable catalyst support. Palm kernel shell was chosen due to its high carbon content, low ash presence, and abundance as a byproduct in the palm oil industry, making it an economically viable and environmentally friendly option. In this study, an optimized activated carbon from PKS biomass was fabricated as catalyst support to enhance biodiesel production efficiency. Using response surface methodology (RSM), the PKS was impregnated with phosphoric acid and synthesized at various acid concentrations, impregnation times, and activation times to enhance porosity for catalytic support capabilities. The experimental design included a central composite design (CCD) to vary these factors systematically and determine their optimal levels. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis revealed significant development of porosity, affirming the efficient activation process. Energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX) analysis confirmed phosphorus incorporation during activation, indicating the formation of an intricate pore structure. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy highlighted the presence of functional groups pertinent to the biodiesel reaction process. The transesterification process employing PKS as a catalyst with different biobased feedstocks, such as waste frying oils from corn, palm, and sunflower, led to biodiesel yields of varying efficiencies. Notably, corn oil had the highest yield at 94.92%. This study highlights the potential of PKS as a biobased catalyst support and contributes to the broader biorefinery concept by integrating biomass utilization into renewable fuel production.

Prevalence and Characteristics of Isolated Nighttime Masked Uncontrolled Hypertension in Treated Patients

Background and Objectives: We evaluated the prevalence and characteristics of isolated nighttime masked uncontrolled hypertension (IN-MUCH) in treated patients. Materials and Methods: Participants aged 20 years or older who were on antihypertensive medication underwent three-day office blood pressure (BP) and 24 h ambulatory BP measurements. Hypertension phenotypes were classified as controlled hypertension (CH), isolated daytime masked uncontrolled hypertension (ID-MUCH), IN-MUCH, and daytime and nighttime masked uncontrolled hypertension (DN-MUCH). Results: Among 701 participants, 544 had valid BP data and controlled office BP (<140/90 mmHg). The prevalence of IN-MUCH was 34.9%, with a higher prevalence of men and drinkers than in those with CH. Patients with IN-MUCH had higher office systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) than those with CH. The prevalence of IN-MUCH was 37.6%, 38.5%, and 27.9% in patients with optimal, normal, and high-normal office BP levels, respectively. Among IN-MUCH patients, 51.6% exhibited isolated uncontrolled DBP and 41.1% uncontrolled SBP and DBP. Younger age (p = 0.043), male sex (p = 0.033), and alcohol consumption (p = 0.011) were more prevalent in patients with isolated uncontrolled DBP than in those with uncontrolled SBP and DBP. Age and alcohol consumption were positively associated, whereas high-normal office BP exhibited a negative association with IN-MUCH. Conclusions: The IN-MUCH was significantly more prevalent in patients with normal or optimal office BP, posing treatment challenges. Further investigation is needed to determine whether differentiation between isolated uncontrolled DBP and combined uncontrolled SBP and DBP is necessary for prognostic assessment of IN-MUCH.

IMPLEMENTASI METODE DELPHI TERHADAP TUGAS AKHIR MATAKULIAH TEFL

In the era of globalization and rapid technological development. To prepare students to face social changes, the world of work and rapid technological advances, student competencies must be improved and prepared to face the demands of the times. and these optimal and relevant skills must be considered in the Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) course. Microteaching in TEFL courses must be adapted to the demands of the times. Therefore, the Delphi Method can be used to form guidelines and predict trends. The five main uses of Delphi in higher education, include: cost effectiveness, cost-benefit analysis, curriculum and campus planning, university education goals and objectives, generalized futuristic education goals and objectives. This research uses a descriptive qualitative method with a literature study approach. Keywords in qualitative research, namely, the process of understanding, and humans. both natural phenomena and man-made phenomena. These phenomena can be activities, and the difference between one phenomenon and another. This is indicated by the results of the standard deviation which has reached the optimal level. Based on the results of the priority sequence reference, it can be determined that students are required to record microteaching practices. themselves, and upload it to YouTube and then report it to the lecturer. YouTube's selection policy is based on this platform not limiting the length of the video, so students can be as creative as possible in class.

The Impact of Cross-Border Banking on Financial Stability

The globalization of financial markets has ushered in an era of interconnectedness, where financial institutions increasingly operate across national borders. This phenomenon, known as cross-border banking, has both potential benefits and risks for financial stability. While it can enhance risk diversification and promote economic growth, it also poses challenges such as contagion effects and regulatory coordination issues. This study aims to comprehensively investigate the impact of cross-border banking on financial stability, particularly within the European Union (EU). By examining the costs and benefits, developing metrics to measure optimal integration, and applying these metrics to EU countries, this research seeks to provide policymakers and regulators with valuable insights into the management of cross-border banking activities. The study begins by analysing the costs and benefits of cross-border banking. While it can offer advantages like risk spreading and increased credit stability, it also introduces risks such as contagion and regulatory challenges. The research explores the interplay between these factors and their implications for financial stability. To quantify the optimal level of cross-border banking integration, the study develops forward-looking indicators. These metrics aim to measure the extent to which a country's banking system is integrated into international markets while minimizing risks. By applying these indicators to EU countries, the research identifies which countries are more susceptible to systemic risks and which ones demonstrate optimal practices. Furthermore, the study investigates the systemic risks associated with cross-border banking, particularly the risk of financial contagion. It examines how the interconnectedness of financial institutions can facilitate the spread of shocks across borders and explores the role of regulatory coordination in mitigating these risks. The research also evaluates the trade-off between cross-border banking integration and local financial stability. While integration can provide diversification benefits, it can also increase vulnerability to external shocks. The study seeks to determine the optimal level of integration that allows countries to benefit from international markets without compromising domestic stability. Finally, the study provides policy recommendations based on its findings. By identifying countries with imbalances or low diversification, the research offers guidance on how to improve financial stability through targeted interventions. The recommendations aim to enhance the resilience of cross-border banking systems and contribute to a more stable and efficient global financial landscape.

On the Machinability and Formation of Gas Film Thickness in ECDM of Silica based Pyrex Glass

Abstract Electrochemical discharge machining (ECDM) stands out as a preferred method for microfluidic channel fabrication due to its ability to produce required shapes with the least thermal damage along with close tolerances and dimensional accuracy. Recently, there has been significant progress made in the domain of ECDM for parametric analysis, focusing on discharge regime characteristics, but precise control of the hydrodynamic regime remains a challenge. We analyzed the effect of various auxiliary electrodes on the formation of gas film thickness and discharge energy during the fabrication of microchannels using ECDM on silica-based Pyrex glass under varying conditions. Experiments were conducted on an ECDM setup to achieve near damage-free edges of microchannels on the surface silica-based Pyrex glass. Results show the effect of various auxiliary electrodes, applied voltage, and electrolyte concentration on gas film thickness, spark energy, rate of material removal (MRR), and width of overcut (WOC). The optimum parametric level of applied voltage, electrolyte concentration, and auxiliary electrode were 68V, 35wt%, and A2 auxiliary electrode, respectively and the best response values were 0.4134mg/min, and 40μm, respectively, for MRR and WOC. In addition, tool wear rate, heat affected zone, and surface morphology of fabricated microchannels was examined using scanning electron microscopy, optical microscope, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy

AI-based green technology implementation simulation for achieving carbon neutrality: exploring the role of subsidies and knowledge management.

This study investigates the role of green technology implementation (GTI) based on artificial intelligence (AI) at the household level to achieve carbon neutrality by addressing gaps in the existing research. The research focuses on understanding how education on green consumption preferences, green invention and emission impacts can optimally influence AI-based GTI decisions. Through behavioural analysis at the household level, this study quantifies the effects of education and preferences on emissions and proposes subsidies as accelerators for carbon-neutral transitions. Furthermore, the study employs regression analysis and simulation-based optimisation, which are then validated against prior methodologies, with a focus on Punjab, Pakistan. Utilising a simple random sampling technique, approximately 1000 households were surveyed to represent the province's diverse demographics comprehensively. Findings reveal that higher education levels correlate with less enthusiasm for AI-based GTI. Simulations measured optimal subsidy levels by striking a balance between encouraging green behaviour and technological adoption. By integrating diverse factors and AI-based GTI optimisation, this study defines important thresholds for education and subsidies, thus highlighting their pivotal role in advancing AI-based green technologies and sustainable household practices. This research significantly enhances the understanding of the complex relationship between AI-based GTI decisions and educational influences, thereby contributing to the advancement of environmental sustainability.

Non-linear association of the platelet/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio with bone mineral density a cross-sectional study

BackgroundNumerous studies have demonstrated shared risk factors and pathophysiologic mechanisms between osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and platelets have long been recognized as crucial factors for cardiovascular health. The platelet to HDL-C ratio (PHR) combines platelet count and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level, It is a novel biomarker for metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. The platelet to HDL-C ratio (PHR) possibly reflects the balance between proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory states in the body. Therefore, we hypothesized that changes in PHR ratios may predict a predisposition to pro-inflammatory and increased bone resorption. However, the relationship between the platelet to HDL-C ratio (PHR) and bone mineral density (BMD) remains insufficiently understood. This study aimed to elucidate the relationship between the platelet to HDL-C ratio (PHR) index and bone mineral density (BMD).MethodsData from the NHANES 2005–2018 were analyzed, excluding adults with missing key variables and specific conditions. Nonlinear relationships were explored by fitting smoothed curves and generalized additive models, with threshold effects employed to calculate inflection points. Additionally, subgroup analyses and interaction tests were conducted.ResultsThe study included 13,936 individuals with a mean age of 51.19 ± 16.65 years. Fitted smoothed curves and generalized additive models revealed a nonlinear, inverted U-shaped relationship between the two variables. Threshold effect analysis showed a significant negative association between PHR and total femur bone mineral density (BMD) beyond the inflection point of platelet to HDL-C ratio (PHR) 33.301. Subgroup analyses showed that a significant interaction between these two variables was observed only in the age and sex subgroups (P-interaction < 0.05).ConclusionsOur study identified a complex, nonlinear, inverted U-shaped relationship between platelet to HDL-C ratio (PHR) and total femur bone mineral density (BMD). These findings underscore the importance of maintaining optimal PHR levels to support bone health, especially in high-risk populations.

Extending behavioral theory of the firm to new ventures: Dispositional optimism as a moderating influence on new product introductions in high-tech ventures

Extant literature has typically drawn from the behavioral theory of the firm (BTOF) to examine new product introductions in the context of well-established companies. This paper extends the behavioral theory of the firm to entrepreneurial firms and argues that jointly considering founders' dispositional optimism together with the performance feedback promises to yield a better understanding of new product introductions in new ventures. We analyze a longitudinal dataset on the activities of 344 newly founded high technology ventures in the United States. The key insight of our study is that when BTOF is applied to the context of nascent, entrepreneurial ventures, the personality and dispositional characteristics of the entrepreneur must be considered. Specifically, we find that performance attainment discrepancy leads to new product introductions, but only when the entrepreneur's dispositional optimism level is high.

Microstructural analysis and prediction of strength response of black expansive soil

Amelioration studies using waste residues are gaining popularity in the construction sector, as they offer dual effective management and utilization of waste residue. This practice is of interest to the growth of any nation due to environmental protection and the economic advantages it offers. For that reason, this present-day study seeks the sustainable utilization of calcium carbide residue (CCR) and palm oil fuel residue (POFR) in expansive soil amelioration. After an in-depth characterization of the parent soil, several number of California bearing ratio (CBR) tests was performed on the parent and additive-treated soil. For this purpose, a total of twenty mixes were prepared possessing various combinations of CCR, POFR, water, and soil. CBR testing for soaked and unsoaked conditions was carried out to assess the strength performance and effectiveness of the additives. Through this approach, optimal California bearing ratio (CBR) values of 41 and 61% were achieved at trial runs designated Y4 for soaked and unsoaked conditions, indicating a strong mechanical performance. These experimental outcomes were subsequently validated using statistical indicators such as ANOVA (F crit > F) and student t-test (t crit > t stat). A step further, microstructural testing such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were performed on the natural soil and soil treated with the optimal level of additives obtained at trial runs designated Y4. The SEM micrographs evidence the transformation of the loosely packed structure of untreated soil into a dense soil composite. Similarly, diverging molecular functional groups were recorded in the FTIR examination with the incorporation of blended CCR-POFR. Finally, the findings suggest that carefully designed mixtures of CCR and POFR can offer a sustainable, efficient approach to soil amelioration, potentially revolutionizing construction practices.

OPTIMAL DECISION-MAKING FOR NEWSPAPER INVENTORY: BALANCING DEMAND UNCERTAINTY AND PROFITABILITY

Estimating cost-benefit analysis, calculating the real value of anything before buying it is essential in order to know if this purchase is fetching or not. In the industry of selling newspapers, since demand is determined by various unpredictable features like news quality and types of reader interest, it may be difficult to estimate how many copies you should buy daily. On the other hand, this study addresses the classic Newsvendor Problem by analyzing a single-period inventory management model to find the optimal order quantity that maximizes profit. Simulating different demand scenarios up to 20 days into the future, using financial-based assumptions (e.g.: selling price, buying cost, and salvage value) on order quantities in order to investigate profits. The results show that we can identify the optimal level of order quantity in the cost-benefit analysis and profit analysis under different demand situations. This method reduces both excess waste and missed sales opportunities, making an optimal answer for inventory alignment in sought-after uncertainty-based industries. The insights of this analysis are not just relevant to newspaper sales but also to all comparable industries where accurate inventory management becomes challenging.

Fertilized soils enhance the efficiency of phytoremediation by tropical grasses in cadmium-contaminated soils

The effectiveness of phytoremediation in Cd-contaminated soils is crucial for enhancing nutrient availability and plant tolerance to Cd. We simulated soil contamination with varying textures and fertilization conditions. Two experiments were conducted: one without liming and fertilization and another with soil fertilization for grasses. The soil types used were Oxisol and Entisol, and the grasses tested were Megathyrsus maximus and Urochloa brizantha at three Cd levels: 0 mg kg−1 (Control), 2 mg kg−1 (Low), and 12 mg kg−1 (High). Soil amendments and fertilization did not significantly change Cd availability. Soil chemical attributes were unaffected by Cd contamination but were influenced by fertilization, which kept the pH below optimal levels. Cd availability was higher in more contaminated soils, with Entisol showing greater concentrations than Oxisol. Dry matter production of the grasses decreased with higher contamination, with U. brizantha being more productive than M. maximus in fertilized soils. Cd accumulation was higher in highly contaminated soils, particularly for U. brizantha. The bioconcentration factor was higher in Entisol, while the translocation factor exceeded 1.0 only for M. maximus in low-contamination Oxisol. Fertilization can mitigate Cd contamination effects, with U. brizantha showing greater tolerance and accumulation capacity in fertilized soils.

China’s interdependent positioning in the semiconductor global value chain

ABSTRACT The semiconductor global value chain (GVC) which was established by global lead companies and their strategic suppliers is now facing significant disruption because of geopolitical tensions between the US and China. As semiconductor production became offshored to East Asia, China’s growing market for semiconductors associated with its role as a major electronics assembly location facilitated its integration into the global value chain for lower value added functions such as assembly and packaging. Together with its high level of optimisation, the GVC is also characterised by significant oligopolies of intellectual property resulting in an overall asymmetric interdependence between locations in advanced and emerging regions. Because of the vital role of the semiconductor sector in areas of national security and within the technology sector more widely, China seeks to develop greater self-reliance in semiconductors at a time when its integration in the global value chain is facing significant threats.

307 Use of defatted black soldier fly larvae meal (BSFLM) as an alternative and functional ingredient in canine nutrition

Abstract Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae meal (BSFLM) is an alternative, sustainable, and nutrient-rich ingredient for pet foods. However, limited information is available on optimal inclusion levels and its functional properties. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of incremental levels of BSFLM (15% or 30%) as a partial or full substitute for chicken by-product meal (CM) in extruded diets. Three complete and balanced diets were formulated and extruded: Control, 15% BSFLM, and 30% BSFLM. The effects of the diets on nutrient digestibility, fecal metabolites and microbiota, and serum oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers in adult dogs were examined. A complete randomized design was used with adult Beagles (n = 10/treatment). The experimental period lasted 70 d, consisting of a 14-d adaptation to the control diet followed by 56-d test period. Data were analyzed using SAS Proc Mixed 9.4 with P ≤ 0.05 significance. All diets were well-accepted by the dogs; food intake and fecal output were not affected (P &amp;gt; 0.05) by treatment. Apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of dry matter, crude protein, and fat did not differ among treatments, whereas ATTD of organic matter (81.2%) and total dietary fiber (18.9%) was less (P &amp;lt; 0.05) for dogs fed 30% BSFLM in contrast with the Control group (83.2% and 30.3%, respectively). Fecal concentrations of total short-chain fatty acids and total phenols were less (P &amp;lt; 0.05) for dogs fed 30% BSFLM relative to dogs fed Control. No treatment effect was observed for serum biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation. Fecal microbial diversity differed between Control and 30% BSFLM groups. Overall, extruded diets containing 15% or 30% were well-digested by dogs as demonstrated by similar ATTD coefficients compared with Control. Intrinsic presence of chitin in BSFLM, and other insect-derived ingredients, can behave like insoluble dietary fiber in a food matrix, which would explain the decreased ATTD for organic matter and total dietary fiber, as well as less fecal concentration of total short-chain fatty acids. The inclusion of 30% BSFLM may have decreased protein hindgut fermentation due to less fecal concentration of total phenols. Altogether, the inclusion of 15% BSFLM resulted in similar physiological responses in comparison with dogs fed the Control diet. Greater inclusion levels of BSFLM may impact ATTD, however, it also has the potential to modulate fecal metabolites and microbiota, without negatively affecting fecal microbial richness.

130 Meta-analysis of the impact of Quebracho and Chestnut tannin extract supplementation on the growth performance in growing and finishing beef cattle

Abstract Integrating tannin extracts (TE) into the diet of growing and finishing beef cattle has shown promise in optimizing protein utilization while potentially mitigating methane emissions. Despite these potential benefits, there is a notable gap in a comprehensive analysis of the influence of TE on growth rate. This study addressed this gap by collecting data on the supplementation of a blend of condensed (from Schinopsis spp.) and hydrolyzable (from Castanea spp.) tannins, which has about 70% total tannins, and its impact on critical metrics, such as average daily gain (ADG, kg/d), dry matter intake (DMI, kg/d), and feed efficiency ratio (FER, g/kg). Our objective was to conduct meta-regression analyses to understand better the nuanced effects of condensed tannin supplementation on the overall performance of beef cattle during the critical stages of growth and finishing. The dataset was constructed by collecting published studies that reported in vivo experimental data on growing and finishing beef cattle supplemented with different levels of TE. It contained 132 observations from 35 publications. The meta-analysis was conducted by linear regression with a mixed-effects model fitted by the restricted maximum likelihood method using the nlme package of R software (ver. 4.3.1). Studies were assumed as random variables, and their interaction with the intercept and slope were included in the regression. The number of animals per treatment was used as a study-specific weight. Studies accounted for 32%, 35%, or 27% of the total variance when regressing ADG, DMI, or FER, respectively, on TE (% DM). After adjusting for random effects, the ADG increased (P &amp;lt; 0.001) with increasing levels of dietary TE (P &amp;lt; 0.001): 1.344 (± 0.0071) + 0.240 (±0.0298) × TE (n = 99, r2 = 0.40). It was observed that as the dietary TE level increased, its impact on the ADG tended to decrease from 0.33 kgּ d-1ּ % TE-1 when fed up to 0.5% TE to 0.24 kgּ d-1ּ % TE-1 when fed up to 1.5% TE, suggesting a possible nonlinear relationship between these two variables. Similarly, DMI decreased slightly (P &amp;lt; 0.001) at 0.61 kg/d/% TE, but with a lower precision (n = 115, r2 = 0.14). Consequently, FER increased (P &amp;lt; 0.001) at 17 kgּ d-1ּ % TE-1 (n = 93, r2 = 0.34). Initial findings suggest that incorporating TE into the diet of growing and finishing cattle, up to a concentration of 0.5% DM, positively influences the growth rate and enhances FER while minimally affecting DMI. Subsequent research endeavors should delve into a more intricate examination of optimal TE inclusion levels and explore additional performance indicators for a comprehensive understanding of its impact.

Analyzing error probability in aerial full-duplex relay systems: Exact formulations and optimization techniques

In this study, we investigate the performance of aerial full-duplex relay (AFDR) systems. In particular, we examine two practical scenarios: one where there is no direct link between the transmitter and user, and another where such a link exists. For both scenarios, we develop mathematical models to calculate the closed-form expressions of symbol error probabilities (SEPs) for AFDR systems, using a realistic channel aligned with the fifth generation (5G) and beyond yardsticks. To take care of residual self-interference (RSI) in AFDR, we propose an optimal power allocation strategy. Our numerical findings indicate that the performance in the case with a direct link is considerably higher than that in the case without this link. Additionally, we analyze thoroughly the effects of key parameters such as transmit power, RSI levels, carrier frequencies, and AFDR positions. The effect of RSI is significantly strong, and our proposed optimal power allocation method substantially improves system performance, especially in high transmit power scenarios where error floors may occur. Importantly, the optimal power level is dramatically lower than the conventional value where the optimal power cannot be found. Thus, besides reducing the SEPs, optimal power also helps to prolong the time of operation of AFDR. Monte-Carlo simulations are performed to confirm the accuracy of our derived expressions and demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed approaches in practical scenarios.