Impact of Freight Transport Packaging on Energy Consumption and Climate Change

/in , /by

The research “Impact of Freight Transport Packaging on Energy Consumption and Climate Change” examines energy efficiency in freight transportation (TCC) through the Green Vehicle Routing Problem (G-VRP) and eco-friendly packaging. Using a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data (distances, energy consumption, CO2 emissions) and qualitative information (operator and the community perceptions), it includes a literature review and a pilot study in 10 cities in Hidalgo, Mexico. Results show that optimized routes with electric vehicles reduce the total distance of traveling, energy consumption, and emissions by 23.87%, and up to 97.86% compared to diesel fleets. Gaps in charging infrastructure and green technology adoption are identified. Integrating ecolabels and heuristic algorithms, like a modified Clarke-Wright, offers sustainable and promising solutions, though it requires a deep restructuring of the production processes. The study suggests public policies and business strategies to promote green logistics, advocating for tailored algorithms and mixed-methods to enhance sustainability in TCC.

Redesigning Digital Photographic Assets to Optimize Website Presentation at the Faculty of Art and Design Education, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia

/in /by

The rapid development of digital communication technologies requires higher education institutions to present professional, informative, and visually representative media particularly through institutional websites, which serve as the primary public interface. Preliminary observations indicate that photographic assets displayed on the website of the Faculty of Art and Design Education (FPSD) at Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia have not met aesthetic and communicative standards. The majority of images consist of low-quality documentation with minimal digital processing and limited adherence to visual communication and photojournalistic principles, resulting in insufficient representation of institutional identity. This study aims to redesign photographic assets to optimize the visual performance of the FPSD website using a Design Thinking methodology. The research process included the stages of empathize, define, ideate, prototype, and test, conducted through website observation, interviews, surveys, and visual quality assessments. Findings reveal that 78.1% of respondents expressed the need for professional-standard photographic production. The prototyping stage produced redesigned photographic assets that fulfilled technical photography standards, visual branding principles, and institutional communication needs. Prototype evaluation demonstrated significant improvements in aesthetic quality, communication effectiveness, and user experience within website display. The study concludes that enhancing photographic assets results not only in better visual aesthetics but also strengthens institutional credibility, professionalism, and authenticity of academic information. Practical implications emphasize the importance of establishing structured guidelines and standardized procedures for documentation and visual asset management in art and design education environments.

Designing A Creative Business Model for Outdoor Photographers Through Business Model Innovation

/in /by

Photography at Tangkuban Perahu Nature Tourism Park is one of the creative industry-based Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) included in the creative economy and engaged in photography. Tangkuban Perahu Nature Tourism Park is one of the tourist destinations whose position is located not far from the center of Bandung City so that it can be easily reached by tourists in Bandung City. Currently, photographers at Tangkuban Perahu Nature Tourism Park face problems in the form of fluctuating trends in the use of direct photography services due to constraints in human resources, promotion, product quality, and business partnerships. To solve this problem is to evaluate in depth the business model that is currently being run. In this study, an evaluation of the business model currently being run by outdoor photographers using the Business Model Canvas (BMC) framework was conducted. To obtain data, interviews with photographers and observations in the field were conducted. Then interviews with visitors to understand visitor profiles and business environment data. From the data obtained, the results will be used to design strategies, which are then used to design the proposed Creative Business Model Canvas (CBMC). Based on the design results, there are several additions to the creative business model canvas for outdoor photographers. In artistic identity, two new values were added: photos that highlight the natural beauty of Indonesia and the mystical charm of Tangkuban Perahu. In the Your audience block, an additional segment was added: groups. In channels, there are options to work with travel agents or local guides, as well as promotion through social media such as Instagram and TikTok. In revenue stream, additional group and pre-wedding photo packages are available. In key resources, added a photo booth directly in the tourist area as a new asset. In key activities, promotional activities through social media are included. In key partners, new partners were added, namely travel agents and local guides. Meanwhile, in the cost structure, additional costs for purchasing photo frames (operational costs) and digital promotions (investment costs) were added. In addition, there are two new blocks, namely art products and artistic services, which help photographers better understand the creative value that can be offered through photo services.

Soil Actinomycetes as Potential Producers of L-Asparaginase: Qualitative, Quantitative and Fermentation Studies

/in /by

Actinomycetes are a group of filamentous, Gram-positive bacteria widely distributed in soil and recognized as prolific producers of bioactive secondary metabolites, including antibiotics and enzymes of therapeutic importance. Among these, L-asparaginase is a clinically significant enzyme used as an antineoplastic agent in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The enzyme catalyzes the hydrolysis of L-asparagine into L-aspartic acid and ammonia, thereby depriving tumor cells of an essential amino acid required for their growth and survival. Although L-asparaginase derived from Escherichia coli and Erwinia carotovora is commercially available, these bacterial sources often cause hypersensitivity and other side effects. Hence, there is a growing need to explore alternative microbial sources such as actinomycetes, which can produce the enzyme with better therapeutic efficiency and fewer side effects. This study aims to identify potent L-asparaginase-producing actinomycetes and their production under submerged fermentation conditions. The   study was designed with four major objectives, to isolate actinomycetes from soil samples, to perform qualitative and quantitative assays for L-asparaginase production, and to evaluate the production of L-asparaginase by submerged fermentation using boiled rice water as the substrate. Soil sample was collected, and actinomycetes were isolated using standard microbiological techniques. The qualitative screening of isolates was carried out using a plate assay method to identify potential L-asparaginase-producing strains based on the formation of color zones. Quantitative estimation of enzyme activity was performed by measuring the amount of ammonia released during enzymatic reaction. For enzyme production, submerged fermentation was employed, utilizing boiled rice water as a nutrient-rich, cost-effective substrate to enhance enzyme yield.

Evaluation of Darul Arqam Gombara Islamic Boarding School, Makassar, Using the CIPPO Approach Model: A Literature Review Study

/in /by

Modern Islamic boarding schools are Islamic educational institutions that play a crucial role in shaping a generation with Islamic character while remaining adaptive to the dynamics of contemporary development. Amid the challenges of globalization and digitalization, modern pesantren must conduct continuous evaluations to maintain the relevance and quality of their education. This study aims to evaluate modern Islamic boarding schools in South Sulawesi, particularly Pondok Pesantren Darul Arqam Gombara, using the CIPPO model (Context, Input, Process, Product, Outcomes). The research employs a literature review method by examining various scholarly sources, including journal articles, books, theses, and research reports relevant to the themes of modern pesantren and educational evaluation. The analysis reveals that: (1) in terms of context, modern pesantren have a vision that integrates religious and general education; (2) regarding input, the quality of teaching staff, dual curriculum, and educational facilities serve as key factors; (3) in the process dimension, there is an integration of formal education with a character-based pesantren system; (4) in terms of product, graduates of modern pesantren demonstrate strong religious, academic, and social competencies; and (5) with respect to outcomes, alumni actively contribute to society, higher education, and the workforce.

Preliminary Study of the Economic Development Potential of Pageraji Village

/in /by

This research is a preliminary study using a field study approach. This preliminary study aims to identify natural resources in Pageraji Village that have the potential to be developed to increase the income of the village community. Data collection was conducted by distributing questionnaires and supported by interviews with relevant parties who understand the village’s natural conditions. Furthermore, Nvivo software was used to process the interview results regarding the hopes and challenges faced in village development. The results of the study successfully identified that Pageraji Village has natural resources that have the potential to be developed. The presence of coconut trees, land area, and soil and water conditions were identified that could be developed for future agricultural and livestock activities. Based on the coding carried out, it was identified that the natural resources owned by the village are supported by creativity, innovation, community involvement, and government support, providing hope for the development of the village’s potential. Furthermore, it was identified that motivation, discipline, conservatism, and the role of institutions are challenges to the development of the village’s potential. The results of the study provide insights into the natural resources of Pageraji Village, which in the future can be utilized to develop the village’s economic potential. In addition, this research can be continued to deepen other potentials that Pageraji Village has so that later a model can be designed that can be adopted for the development of village potential in general.

Hydraulic System Performance on the Caterpillar 305.5E2 Excavator Unit

/in /by

Excavators are one of the most widely used types of heavy equipment due to their ability to operate in tight spaces with high efficiency. One crucial component in supporting excavator performance is the hydraulic system, which functions to move main parts such as the boom, arm, and bucket through fluid pressure. Disruptions in this system can reduce productivity and trigger damage to other components. This study aims to evaluate whether the hydraulic system on the Caterpillar 305.5E2 Excavator unit works optimally and according to technical specifications. Testing was carried out through two main methods, namely pressure tests and operational tests, with the help of pressure gauges and stopwatches. The test results showed that all main functions of the boom, stick, bucket, blade, swing, and travel can operate properly without symptoms of damage or delayed response. Although the hydraulic system may still be operationally functioning normally, there may be indications of internal damage or improper pressure adjustments, which could affect the unit’s long-term performance. Therefore, further technical evaluation is required as part of a preventive maintenance program.

Parental Views and Attitudes Concerning Child Work in a Rural Region of Romania

/in /by

This study examines parental perspectives on children’s involvement in household and agricultural work in a rural region of north-western Romania. The research focuses on Someș Valley in Satu Mare County, where subsistence farming remains common and children often assist with family labour. Using qualitative data from interviews with parents and a focus group with teachers – complemented by survey findings – we analyse how rural parents view the role of their children’s work in the household, its perceived benefits, and its impact on education. Parents generally consider children’s help in chores and farming as a normal and even beneficial part of upbringing, teaching responsibility and practical skills while strengthening family bonds. They report assigning age-appropriate tasks and prioritizing schooling, with most insisting that education is not compromised by farm work. However, contrasting insights from local educators and supportive quantitative data reveal potential tensions: some children experience fatigue and occasional school absences linked to work demands. The findings highlight a nuanced reality in which moderate child work is culturally valued and can foster growth, but excessive labour poses risks to academic progress and child well-being. The article concludes with a discussion on balancing tradition with child rights and offers policy suggestions to support rural families in safeguarding children’s education and welfare.

An Embedded System Approach for Real-Time Attendance and Hall Occupancy Management Using Arduino and GSM Technologies

/in /by

Efficient monitoring of hall occupancy and attendance is crucial in contemporary institutional settings for ensuring safety, facilitating planning, and optimizing resources. This paper details the design and implementation of a real-time attendance and hall management system leveraging embedded system technologies. The system employs a dual infrared (IR) sensor configuration for directional entry-exit detection, an ultrasonic sensor for proximity validation, an I²C-based LCD for real-time occupancy display, and a GSM module for SMS alerts when the hall reaches maximum capacity. The Arduino Uno microcontroller serves as the system’s control unit, integrating sensor inputs and executing logical decisions. Tests conducted in the Nyesom Wike Senate Building at Rivers State University demonstrated the system’s capability to monitor up to 20 occupants with an accuracy rate of 98.7%. This system provides a cost-effective and scalable solution for managing public hall capacity, mitigating overcrowding, and enhancing institutional safety.

An Investigation Regarding the Problems of Peach Growers in Goshta District, Nangarhar province, Afghanistan

/in /by

This investigation aimed to identify and analyze the primary challenges faced by peach growers in District Goshta. A systematic interview schedule was employed to gather data, and data analysis was performed using Excel and SPSS version 20. his study explores the major agricultural challenges encountered by peach growers. These challenges include weak market linkages, limited access to modern farming techniques, pest and disease issues, inadequate storage facilities, insufficient transportation infrastructure, restricted market access, a lack of cold storage options, limited access to institutional credit, and the need for timely advisory services. According to the study, the Afghan government should investigate subsidizing expensive inputs like fertilizers, pesticides, fungicides, high-quality varieties, and contemporary agricultural equipment so that they are available in the local market at the appropriate times and at fair prices. Additionally, extension workers should make frequent visits to ensure that the farming community is aware of the most recent farming techniques.