Two-day Period Research Articles

A Kinematic Approach for Rip Current Identification from ADCP Observation Data at Haeundae Beach, Korea

In May 2023, direct observations of rip currents were conducted at Haeundae Beach, Korea, over a two-day period at six different stations using upward-facing Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (ADCPs). The depth-averaged cross-shore velocity data were low-pass filtered with a 30-s cutoff period to eliminate wave-related motions. By applying 15-min boxcar averages, correlation analyses were performed to examine the relationship between three types of flow (cross-shore, onshore, and offshore) and three environmental factors (tide, wave, and wind). The analysis revealed that only one (R2-3) of the six stations had a high likelihood of rip current occurrence. Rip currents were defined as regions of offshore flow within the low-pass filtered time series of cross-shore velocities. For each identified rip current, three key kinematic features—maximum speed, duration, and distance—were estimated. Using specific thresholds for these features, hazardous rip currents were determined. Station R2-3 was the only station where hazardous rip currents were observed, which is consistent with the findings of the correlation analysis. Additionally, swells with a 15-s period were detected exclusively at R2-3 during the period of the hazardous rip currents, suggesting their significant role in the development of the observed rip currents. Furthermore, both Rip Index from the Rip Current Monitoring and Warning System and the CCTV Score from the Rip Current Checklist exceeded threshold values during this period, reinforcing the reliability of the method used. The potential influence of bound infragravity waves on the duration and variability of these rip currents was discussed. The rip currents observed at Haeundae Beach could be categorized as the "focused" type.

Gardenia jasminoides fruit extract alleviates non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug–induced gastropathy in rats

BackgroundNSAID-induced gastropathy is a health burden that requires effective intervention. Among various prevention options, Gardenia jasminoides fruit extract (GJE) has demonstrated gastroprotective effects through anti-inflammatory pathways with a wide safety margin. However, the detailed molecular mechanisms of GJE regarding mucoprotective and anti-inflammatory effects remained to be explored. Therefore, we investigated the effects of GJE on NSAID-induced gastric injury in rats, focusing on the expression of the protective factors: prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and mucin 5AC (MUC5AC), and the aggravating factors: inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB).MethodsTwenty-four male Sprague–Dawley rats were assigned to three experimental groups (n = 8/group): the control group, the NSAIDs group receiving indomethacin to induce gastric ulcers, and the NSAIDs with GJE pretreatment (NSAIDs + GJE) group. After a two-day experimental period, the stomachs were collected for histopathological examination, immunohistochemical staining, and protein expression analysis in gastric tissue lysates.ResultsThe NSAIDs group exhibited severe neutrophil infiltration with ulcers upon gastric histopathological examination. Pretreatment with GJE attenuated NSAID-induced gastropathy, as evidenced by reduced neutrophil infiltration and decreased ulceration. Immunohistochemical staining and Western blotting demonstrated reduced expressions of PGE2 and MUC5AC, while the expressions of iNOS and NF-κB were increased following NSAID administration. In comparison to the NSAIDs group, the NSAIDs + GJE group exhibited higher expressions of PGE2 and MUC5AC and lower expressions of iNOS and NF-κB, providing evidence of the gastroprotective effects of GJE.ConclusionsPretreatment with GJE alleviated NSAID-induced gastric ulcers by increasing the expression of PGE2 and MUC5AC and decreasing the expression of iNOS and NF-κB. This study contributes to the understanding of the mechanisms by which GJE attenuates NSAID-induced gastropathy. Further studies are required to validate the effect of GJE in clinical settings.

Estimating in situ prepared alkaline soluble flavan as an advanced adsorbent for rare earth elements

The design and synthesis of organic adsorbents for rare earth element (REEs) separation remain significant scientific aspect and industrial endeavor. In a single-pot reaction, acetone and resorcinol in acidic media over a two-day period facilitated the formation of the 2, 4, 4-trimethyl-7, 2′, 4′ trihydroxy flavan (flavan adsorbent). Under acidic conditions, flavan effectively adsorbs REEs (adsorbate), while under alkaline conditions, flavan rapidly dissolves completely. A series of adsorption experiments was conducted to determine the optimal adsorption conditions, including pH variations (1–5), REEs solution concentrations (250–1000 mg/L), adsorption time (5–60 min), and flavan mass (10–100 mg). The maximum adsorption capacity for flavan under optimal conditions was 258 mg g−1. Various analytical instruments were employed for flavan characterization, including Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), which were essential for analyzing the surface morphology and structural properties of the flavan. Adsorption isotherms suggested that the adsorption of REEs onto the flavan surface followed the Langmuir model, which in turn exhibited a theoretical adsorption capacity of 263.2 mg g−1 better off the Freundlich model. Kinetically, the adsorption of REEs on the flavan is best run in a pseudo-second-order model trajectory, which in turn exhibited an adsorption capacity value of 283 mg g−1. Interference studies revealed that flavan is a selective adsorbent; however, aluminum ions may exert a minor interference effect of 4% (in term of REEs uptake). Other competing elements, including Na, K, Mg, Ba, Mn, Cu, Fe, and Sn, exhibited a minimal decline in flavan uptake for REEs.

Raising awareness of potential biases in medical machine learning: Experience from a Datathon.

To challenge clinicians and informaticians to learn about potential sources of bias in medical machine learning models through investigation of data and predictions from an open-source severity of illness score. Over a two-day period (total elapsed time approximately 28 hours), we conducted a datathon that challenged interdisciplinary teams to investigate potential sources of bias in the Global Open Source Severity of Illness Score. Teams were invited to develop hypotheses, to use tools of their choosing to identify potential sources of bias, and to provide a final report. Five teams participated, three of which included both informaticians and clinicians. Most (4/5) used Python for analyses, the remaining team used R. Common analysis themes included relationship of the GOSSIS-1 prediction score with demographics and care related variables; relationships between demographics and outcomes; calibration and factors related to the context of care; and the impact of missingness. Representativeness of the population, differences in calibration and model performance among groups, and differences in performance across hospital settings were identified as possible sources of bias. Datathons are a promising approach for challenging developers and users to explore questions relating to unrecognized biases in medical machine learning algorithms.

Visualization of the degradation of long-acting microneedles and correlation of drug release in vivo based on FRET mechanism

This study introduces a live imaging technique for real-time, non-invasive monitoring of drug release from long-acting microneedles using FRET (Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer). Employing Cy5.5 and Cy7 as FRET pairs and levonorgestrel as the model drug, we fabricated microneedles with varying PLGA molecular weights, demonstrating distinct release profiles. The FRET-PLGA-10-MN demonstrated a rapid drug release profile, reaching nearly complete release within a two-day period, while FRET-PLGA-30-MN showed a sustained release over four days. Sensitized Emission FRET (SE-FRET) optimized the imaging process, providing a robust correlation between FRET signals and drug absorption. This method surpasses traditional pharmacokinetic studies by offering a more efficient and comprehensive analysis of microneedle release dynamics in vivo, paving the way for enhanced long-acting microneedle design and therapeutic outcomes. Statement of significance1. FRET technology was applied to microneedle drug delivery system for the first time, which realized real-time, quantitative and non-invasive monitoring of drug release process.2. The long-term microneedle technique was combined with sensitized emission method, and the FRET remaining ratio was innovatively used to investigate the FRET characteristics of microneedles, and the fluorescence ratio of FRET and donor double-channel was quantitatively calculated.3. The correlation between visual fluorescence images of FRET effect and semi-quantitative calculation results based on fluorescence intensity and drug release in vivo with drug-loaded microneedles was analyzed.

PRODUCT PACKAGING AND DIGITAL MARKETING TRAINING FOR MSME MEMBERS OF PDA NORTH LOMBOK

The Aisyiyyah Regional Leadership (PDA) is one of the organisations under Muhammadiyah that has women members distributed across all provinces in Indonesia. One such organisation is the North Lombok PDA. The North Lombok PDA has a significant number of members who are micro-entrepreneurs, but they are still lacking in terms of product promotion. The objective of this service activity is to enhance the knowledge and skills of the North Lombok PDA members in the domains of product packaging and digital-based marketing. The methodology employed in this service activity is Participatory Action Research, wherein the partners assume an active role in the activity. The enhancement of the participants' knowledge and abilities was gauged through pre- and post-tests and practical assessments. The effectiveness of the service is evaluated through a satisfaction questionnaire completed by participants at the conclusion of the event. The service activity was conducted over a two-day period and was executed in an orderly and seamless manner. The results of the pre- and post-test data processing demonstrate that there was an increase in the participants' knowledge before and after they were given counselling material. The increase in participant knowledge was 25%. In conclusion, the results of the participant satisfaction questionnaire indicate that the service activity was a success. The participants' assessment per indicator was predominantly positive, with the majority scoring in the good and excellent categories.

Longitudinal Tracking of Calprotectin and Interleukin-6 in Sweat and Saliva Using a Sweat Wearable Device

Introduction: This work demonstrates an electrochemical sensor for the application of continuous, noninvasive measurement of inflammation in sweat and saliva through the biomarkers Calprotectin and Interleukin-6 (IL-6), respectively. Calprotectin and IL-6 play a part in the systemic inflammation inherent to chronic inflammatory conditions, such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), rheumatoid arthritis, cystic fibrosis, etc. Sweat and saliva represent comparable external mediums through which inflammation can be tracked continuously and noninvasively. Materials and Methods: Calprotectin and IL-6 were measured in sweat and saliva for 2 chronically inflamed subjects and 10 healthy subjects over a two-day period. Sweat measurements were performed using a wearable, skin-based electrochemical sensor utilizing electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) to quantify Calprotectin and IL-6 concentrations continuously in passively expressed sweat. Calprotectin and IL-6 levels were measured in real time and transmitted to a wireless device application. Figure 1 illustrates the sensor and wearable device design and composition alongside an application interface displaying the wearer's Calprotectin levels measured in real time. Synchronously collected saliva was measured for Calprotectin and IL-6 to characterize the relationship between sweat and saliva expression, establish the relationship between Calprotectin and IL-6 expression as markers of chronic inflammation, and investigate the sweat and salivary diurnal patterns of marker expression for inflamed and healthy subjects. In addition, we tracked sweat Calprotectin over a 40-hour period for chronically inflamed and healthy subjects with varying levels of inflammation and treatments. Results and Discussion: Between sweat and saliva, Calprotectin and IL-6 demonstrated a strong linear relationship (R2>0.7), and strong to moderate linear relationships between Calprotectin and IL-6 in sweat and saliva, respectively. Bland-Altman analysis and Deming regression analysis determined a low incidence of outliers and similar ranges of Calprotectin and IL-6 expression between sweat and saliva. Diurnal analysis exhibited significantly higher sweat Calprotectin and higher median Calprotectin measured in the morning-afternoon than measured in the evening among chronically inflamed and healthy subjects, respectively. Among sweat IL-6 measured in the morning-afternoon and evening, chronically inflamed individuals expressed higher median sweat IL-6 in the morning-afternoon, while healthy individuals expressed higher median IL-6 in the evening. Temporal results of 40-hour tracking of sweat Calprotectin demonstrated higher basal Calprotectin in a medicated over unmedicated inflamed subject, and higher basal Calprotectin of inflamed subjects over a healthy subject. Conclusion: Calprotectin and IL-6 demonstrated strong positive linear relationships between saliva and sweat expression of each marker and strong to moderate linear relationships between the markers in sweat and saliva, along with a low incidence of outliers and a similar range of expression between sweat and saliva. Diurnal patterns were characterized for chronically inflamed and healthy individuals for Calprotectin and IL-6 in sweat, and continuous tracking of inflammation in sweat was demonstrated with the wearable sensor device. Figure 1

Biotechnological and economic assessment of the productivity of Chlorella vulgaris IBSS-19 microalgae under different cultivation regimes

The production of microalgae biomass and the management of productivity plays an important role in global biotechnology. This research aimed to study the kinetic characteristics of C. vulgaris growth, conduct an economic analysis of biomass production, and develop a simple optimization model for choosing the optimal cultivation regime. The results showed that the additional CO2 supply increased the specific growth rate of C. vulgaris by 35 % and increased productivity by 47 %. Analysis of the batch growth curve of microalgae revealed potentially effective cultivation cycles, which were two, four, and six days. Economic analysis revealed that the greatest biomass yield can be obtained using a two-day cultivation period. Depending on the biomass yield, the cost of production, net income, and profitability of production were calculated according to the cultivation cycles.

Improved Protoplast Production Protocol for Fungal Transformations Mediated by CRISPR/Cas9 in Botrytis cinerea Non-Sporulating Isolates.

Botrytis cinerea is a necrotrophic fungus that causes considerable economic losses in commercial crops. Fungi of the genus Botrytis exhibit great morphological and genetic variability, ranging from non-sporogenic and non-infective isolates to highly virulent sporogenic ones. There is growing interest in the different isolates in terms of their methodological applications aimed at gaining a deeper understanding of the biology of these fungal species for more efficient control of the infections they cause. This article describes an improvement in the protoplast production protocol from non-sporogenic isolates, resulting in viable protoplasts with regenerating capacity. The method improvements consist of a two-day incubation period with mycelium plugs and orbital shaking. Special mention is made of our preference for the VinoTaste Pro enzyme in the KC buffer as a replacement for Glucanex, as it enhances the efficacy of protoplast isolation in B459 and B371 isolates. The methodology described here has proven to be very useful for biotechnological applications such as genetic transformations mediated by the CRISPR/Cas9 tool.

Piping Stabilization of Clay Soil Using Lime

Construction of earth fill dams offers a cost-effective solution for various purposes. However, their susceptibility to internal soil erosion, known as piping, poses a significant risk of structural failure and resultant loss of life and property. Soil stabilization emerges as a practical technique to fortify these dams against such threats. This study investigated the impact of lime on the internal erosion properties of clay soils, focusing on CH and ML soil types. Specimens of different lime content were prepared and remolded at 95% relative compaction and optimum moisture content. Hole Erosion tests at varying lime concentrations and curing durations were adapted to conduct the investigation. This investigation aims to optimize lime content and curing time for cohesive soil stabilization against internal erosion. Findings revealed that 2% and 5% of quicklime, by dry weight of the soil, effectively stabilized CH and ML soils, respectively, against internal erosion, with a two-day curing period proving optimal. Furthermore, the addition of lime significantly enhanced erosion rate index and critical shear strength in clay soil, underscoring its efficacy in soil stabilization efforts.

Vector transmission of parsley yellow leaf curl virus by the leafhopper Austroagallia sinuata.

Parsley yellow leaf curl virus (PYLCV) is a new member of the family Geminiviridae that has not yet been assigned to an established genus due to limited information about its biological properties. In this study, the ability of Austroagallia leafhoppers, which are commonly found on vegetable farms in Kerman province (Iran), to transmit this virus was studied. After a two-day acquisition access period, Austroagallia sp. successfully transmitted the virus from PYLCV-infected parsley to healthy seedlings. On the basis of male genitalia morphology, the species of leafhopper was identified as A. sinuata. This is the first report of a transmission of plant virus by a member of the genus Austroagallia.

Enhancing drinkable water production in conical solar distillers: Comparative analysis of magnet fin heights

This paper presents a comparative experimental analysis aimed at improving the production of drinking water from conical solar distillers using magnet fins as a low-cost and efficient storage material. Cylindrical magnet fins with a diameter of 1.6 cm were strategically placed at various heights (2 cm, 1.5 cm, 1 cm, and 0.5 cm) with a spacing of 5 cm on the absorber plate to increase the absorption area and heat transfer to the basin water. Three modules were tested under identical conditions over a two-day period with a fixed water depth of 2 cm (corresponding to the maximum magnet fin height). On the first day, the Traditional Conical Solar Distiller (TCSD), the Conical Solar Distiller with Magnet Fins at a height of 2 cm (CSD-MF-2), and the Conical Solar Distiller with Magnet Fins at a height of 1.5 cm (CSD-MF-1.5) were evaluated. On the second day, the TCSD, the Conical Solar Distiller with Magnet Fins at a height of 1 cm (CSD-MF-1), and the Conical Solar Distiller with Magnet Fins at a height of 0.5 cm (CSD-MF-0.5) were tested. The results showed that the daily water yield from the TCSD at a water depth of 2 cm was 5.50 L, whereas the conical solar distillers with magnet fins at heights of 2 cm, 1.5 cm, 1 cm, and 0.5 cm produced 7.95 L, 7.30 L, 6.90 L, and 6.40 L, respectively. Consequently, the utilization of magnet fins led to a significant improvement in distiller productivity, with the best configuration being the CSD-MF-2 with a height of 2 cm, resulting in a 44.54 % increase in yield with an average overall efficiency about 42.2 %.

Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Consumption and Its Association With Dental Caries Among Adolescents in Erbil, Iraq: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Sugar-sweetened beverages are one of the most common sources of added sugar in the diet and have been associated with an increased risk ofdental caries, obesity, major chronic diseases, and possibly cancer. Dental caries is a diet-related, highly prevalent, and preventable oral disease.The objective of this study was to assess the frequency of sugar-sweetened beverage consumption and its association with dental caries in adolescents in Erbil, Iraq. Methods This is a cross-sectional study that invited 11- to 16-year-old intermediate school students (n=380) in Erbil, Iraq. Data collection comprised a validated questionnaire and a clinical examination.In addition, dietary data were collected by using two non-consecutive 24-hour recalls. The mean of the daily consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages over a two-day period was calculated.Dental caries was diagnosed based on World Health Organization (WHO)criteria and was reported as a decayed, missing, and filled permanent tooth (DMFT). A multiple regression model was used to assess the influence of sugar-sweetened beverages on dental caries experience (DMFT). SPSS version 26 (Armonk, NY: IBM Corp) was used to analyze the data at the 5% significance level. Results Of the 380 students interviewed, one participant was excluded because of incomplete data. The participant's mean age and standard deviation (SD) were 13.3±1.2. A total of 54.1%of the students were female. The mean daily intake of sugar-sweetened beverages was 686.71±197.50 mL per day.Male students consumed more beveragesthan femalestudents (p<0.001). The most frequently consumed sugar-sweetened beverages were sweetened tea and coffee, and the least frequently consumed beverages were milk and dairy products. The mean decayed, missing, and filled permanent tooth (DMFT) was 94.58±2.73.Results of multiple regression analysis showed that caries experience (DMFT) was associated with insufficient toothbrushing (p<0.001), plaque-affected sextants (p=0.001), and male sex (p=0.016). The model also showed a significant association between sugar-sweetened beverage consumption and dental caries experience (DMFT) (regression coefficient=0.008, CI: 0.006-0.009, p<0.001). Conclusions Adolescents in Erbil, Iraq, consumed sugar-sweetened beverages on a frequent basis, and male students consumed more sugary beverages than females. The higher frequency of these beverage consumptions was associated with a higher dental caries experience. Consequently, reducing sugar-sweetened beverage consumption could have a significant positive public health impact.

Development of transgenic Brassica napus plants with AtATM3 gene to enhance cadmium and lead tolerance

Four popular genotypes of Brassica napus, cv. BARI Sarisha-8, BARI Sarisha-13, Binasarisha-4, and Binasarisha-8 were subjected to cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) stress to identify a genotype with enhanced tolerance of Cd and Pb. The goal was to use the selected genotype for genetic engineering, thereby improving traits related to heavy metal tolerance and accumulation to remediate polluted agricultural soils. The genotype, BARI Sarisha-8 with superior tolerance to both Cd and Pb stresses, was chosen for genetic engineering with Arabidopsis thaliana ABC transporter of the mitochondrion 3 (AtATM3) gene. The transformation process involved coculturing the cotyledon explants with Agrobacterium strain GV3101 carrying a binary vector containing the hygromycin phosphotransferase (HPT) gene as a selectable marker and the AtATM3 gene. Transformation efficiency was significantly enhanced with a two-day co-cultivation period on shoot induction medium composed of MS medium, α-naphthaleneacetic acid (0.5 mg/L), and 6-benzyladenine (3 mg/L), supplemented with acetosyringone (20 mg/L), along with a four-day delay in exposing the explants to the selective agent hygromycin. Hygromycin-resistant shoots were obtained by employing a three-step selection process. The refined protocol resulted in a transformation efficiency of 15.38%. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis confirmed the integration of AtATM3 and HPT genes into the host genome in all recombinant plants. Transgenic B. napus plants expressing the AtATM3 gene exhibited notable improvements in tolerance, demonstrating a 1.4- to 1.7fold increase in Cd tolerance and a 1.3- to 1.5-fold increase in Pb tolerance compared to the wild type (nontransformed) under both Cd and Pb stress conditions.

Evaluation of Salvia hispanica as a Therapeutic Agent against Sodium Arsenic-Induced Testicular Toxicity in a Male Rats Model.

Chia seeds offer therapeutic properties that aid in the prevention of a variety of ailments, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and other risk factors. Arsenite, a common environmental chemical, has been identified as a reproductive toxin owing to its negative effects on male reproductive health. It has been shown to inhibit spermatogenesis and generate androgenic effects in men. The primary goal of this research was to look into the effect of Salvia hispanica on testicular toxicity caused by sodium arsenite in male rats. A set of 36 male albino rats was allocated to a negative control cohort. The individuals in this group were given a basic meal and orally given distilled water for a duration of 28 days. The other five groups were given a regular meal and received intra-peritoneal injections of sodium arsenite (NaAsO2) at a concentration of 4 mg/kg body weight that was diluted in a 0.9% NaCl solution. The injections were administered consecutively, with two doses given within a two-day period. Subsequently, the rats were categorized into several groups using the following classification: Group 2 consisted of a positive control cohort, in which the rats were given a typical baseline diet. Groups 3, 4, 5, and 6 were given a basic diet that included varying proportions of ground chia seeds, namely 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% per 100 g of the diet. After the trial was completed, the rats were euthanized, and further biological examination was conducted. The measurements of the reproductive organs were documented and reported. The research assessed the following characteristics: sperm count, motility, progressive motility, and normal morphology. The research included examining serum sex hormones, namely luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and testosterone. An evaluation of the activity of antioxidant enzymes was performed in the tissue of the testicles. There were statistically significant improvements in the sperm parameters, serum sex hormone levels, and the activity of antioxidant enzymes, such as GPX, SOD, and CAT, in the therapy groups. The levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) exhibited a noteworthy decrease (p ≤ 0.05) when compared to the positive control group. Salvia hispanica seeds have demonstrated a significant level of effectiveness in reducing sodium arsenite-induced testicular toxicity, which leads to the conclusion. The flavonoid content and antioxidant properties of Salvia hispanica seeds may be to blame for the observed behavior. These indicated characteristics may have therapeutic significance in treating testicular harm induced by arsenite exposure.

Palladium nanoparticle deposition on spherical carbon supports for heterogeneous catalysis in continuous flow

Pd/C spherical bead catalysts were synthesised and evaluated in small-scale screenings via a recirculating batch platform (20 mg). The applicability of the catalysts was subsequently demonstrated over a two-day operating period on a larger scale.

Characterization of a Pseudomonas sp. Isolated from Langkawi Capable of Degrading Glyphosate

Bioremediation of soil contaminants, including glyphosate, is an economically viable and environmentally friendly technique. Glyphosate, one of the most widely used herbicides for weed management, poses significant risks to wildlife and their habitats when it contaminates the environment. This study focused on the bioremediation potential of soil Pseudomonas spp. isolated from a paddy field with a long history of glyphosate application. The most promising isolate was tentatively identified as Pseudomonas sp. strain UPM-2009 through partial identification methods. This bacterium showed significant potential for glyphosate degradation under optimal conditions. Experiments demonstrated that Pseudomonas sp. degrades glyphosate most effectively at pH 7.0, a glyphosate concentration of 0.5 g/L, temperatures between 30 and 35°C, and an inoculum size of 1% (v/v). Notably, the bacterium exhibited a two-day lag period at 0.5 g/L glyphosate, achieving nearly 90% degradation after six days of incubation. Heavy metals such as Hg(II), Ag(I), and Cd(II) significantly inhibited bacterial growth, with inhibition rates of 99%, 95%, and 66%, respectively. This study underscores the potential of Pseudomonas sp. for bioremediation of glyphosate-contaminated environments. It highlights the need for further research, particularly molecular identification techniques, to fully characterize and optimize this bioremediation strategy. This approach can significantly contribute to mitigating the environmental impact of glyphosate pollution, promoting healthier ecosystems and sustainable agricultural practices.

Real-Time Visitor Counting with Dynamic Facial Recognition using Python and Machine Learning

Visitor data or the number of visitors at a particular location is crucial information to be obtained. This data can serve various purposes, particularly in enhancing customer satisfaction. For instance, predicting the number of visitors at tourist destinations enables tourism management to be better prepared for welcoming and providing optimal services to arriving visitors. Visitor count data can also be employed to automatically restrict visitors during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment with limited attendees. To acquire visitor data, a system capable of accurate visitor detection is required. This research utilizes computer vision to detect visitor faces. The developed system, programmed in Python, functions by detecting visitor faces and conducting a count based on the detected faces. To prevent the same visitor from being detected multiple times, a facial recognition method with dynamic facial data collection is implemented in this study. The constructed system successfully counted 27 out of 28 visitors over a two-day period. However, the system has limitations, particularly in terms of the restricted detection area. Therefore, a physical mechanism mandating visitors to undergo facial scanning and registration needs to be established, ensuring recorded data corresponds to the actual visitor count.

Satuan Pendidikan Aman Bencana (SPAB) and Psychological First Aid (PFA) Workshop' for Volunteers in Forum Pengurangan Risiko Bencana (FPRB) Kabupaten Bandung

Strengthening the capacity of schools at the Kabupaten Bandung level in the government-initiated initiative of socializing Satuan Pendidikan Aman Bencana (SPAB) is one of the responsibilities of volunteers from the Forum Pengurangan Risiko Bencana (FPRB). However, there is currently a lack of qualified volunteers to serve as facilitators for disaster preparedness training for school personnel, including teachers and students. The objective of this workshop activity is to provide knowledge and skills to volunteers from the Bandung Regency Disaster Risk Reduction Forum (FPRB) to enhance their role as disaster volunteers. These FPRB volunteers operate under the guidance and supervision of the Bandung Regency Regent. They actively participate in various disaster-related activities such as disaster response, post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction, and disaster mitigation. The Bandung District consists of 31 sub-districts, most of which are prone to disasters. Workshop modules have been developed to facilitate the training of Forum Pengurangan Risiko Bencana (FPRB) volunteers. Subsequently, the FPRB volunteers, who will serve as facilitators, will conduct SPAB and PFA (Psychological First Aid) sessions. The training was completed within a two-day period.&#x0D; Keywords: volunteers, disaster education, school

Development of Thermal Energy Storage Material From Blends of Jatropha Biodiesel and Paraffin Wax for Augmenting Freshwater Generation Capacity in a Solar Desalination System

Abstract Enhancing nocturnal productivity holds promise for boosting the effectiveness of solar desalination setups. Current research concentrates on an innovative strategy: the integration of paraffin wax and Jatropha biodiesel as a composite energy storage material (CESM) to amplify distilled water output during nighttime. The composite material, comprising Jatropha biodiesel and paraffin wax in a 1:1 ratio by weight, is meticulously examined for its impact on productivity, juxtaposed against a conventional solar still (CSS). Results reveal a substantial improvement in thermal conductivity with CESM, exhibiting a noteworthy 20.37%% surge compared to pure paraffin wax. Furthermore, a solar still with biodiesel and phase change material (SSBDPCM) is pitted against a CSS, with continuous monitoring of water and absorber temperatures alongside distillate production. The findings illustrate that SSBDPCM achieves a 16% upsurge in water temperature and a 10% elevation in absorber temperature compared to CSS. Impressively, SSBDPCM achieves a staggering 63% increase in distillate production, yielding 3.6 l/m2 and 3.4 l/m2, in sharp contrast to CSS, which only manages 2.2 l/m2 and 2.1 l/m2 over a two-day test period. Furthermore, a comprehensive cost analysis showcases the economic superiority of SSBDPCM over CSS. SSBDPCM demonstrates a compelling 29.2% reduction in cost per liter and a significant 25.9% decrease in the payback period in comparison to CSS. These compelling outcomes underscore the substantial potential of the SSBDPCM approach in delivering heightened efficiency and cost-effectiveness, paving the way for a promising advancement in solar stills.