bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of leaf clipping on growth and yield of blackgram (Vigna mungo L.)
Authors: Sultana A , Karim MF , Mahmud MH , Sarker SC , Hossain MD
Published: November 2023

An experiment was conducted at Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University farm, Dhaka to investigate the effect of variety and leaf clipping on the growth and yield of blackgram (Vigna mungo L.) from March to June-2019. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with three replications. The treatments were Blackgram variety (3); V1: BARI Mash-1, V2: BARI Mash-2 and V3: BARI Mash-3, and leaf clipping (4); C0: No leaf clipping (control), C1: Clipping of 1st basal leaf, C2: Clipping of 2nd basal leaves and C3: Clipping of total apical leaves having no inflorescence. Growth, yield and yield contributing characteristics were compared under different treatments. Results indicated that variety and leaf clipping significantly affected most of the growth and yield contributing characteristics of blackgram. In the case of variety, mthe aximum value of the yield and yield contributing characteristics such as pod−1 length (8.99 cm), pods plant−1 (14.00), number of seeds pod−1 (9.78), 1000 seeds weight (48.58 g), and seed yield (1381.70 kg ha−1), were observed in var. BARI Mash-3. In the case of leaf clipping, maximum pod length (8.44 cm), pods plant−1 (15.18), seeds pod (9.32), 1000- seeds weight (48.33 g), seed yield (1306.7 kg ha−1), was recorded in Clipping of 1st basal leaf treatment. The blackgram var. BARI Mash-3 and clipping of 1st basal leaf was found superior in producing maximum pod length (9.32 cm), number of pods plant−1 (16.87), number of seeds pod−1 (10.80), 1000- seeds weight (51.67 g), and seed yield (1456.70 kg ha−1). So, var.  BARI Mash-3 and clipping of 1st basal leaf may improve the growth and yield of blackgram.

Bangladesh Agron. J. 2023, 26(1): 9-17
Effects of Planting Geometry and Fertilizer Management on Light Interception, Chlorophyll Content and Productivity in Baby Corn Cultivation
Authors: Kakon SS , Chowdhury JA , Ali MZ , Karim MR , Chowdhury DA
Published: November 2023

A field experiment was conducted during during rabi seasons (December to March) of 2019-20 and 2020-21 to find out optimum plant spacing and fertilizer levels on yield of baby corn. Three plant spacing viz, S1=40 cm × 20 cm (1,25000 plants ha−1), S2=50 cm × 20 cm (100000 plants ha−1) and S3 =60 cm × 20 cm (83333 plants ha−1) and three fertilizer doses viz, F1 = 150- 30- 50- 25-3. 5- 1.5 kg ha−1of NPKSZnB (Recommended fertilizer dose for baby corn), F2 = F1 + 25% NPK and F3 = F1 + 50% NPK, were used as treatments. Results revealed that, planting geometry and fertilizer levels showed great influence on leaf area index (LAI), light interception, dry matter production and yield of babycorn. LAI was found the highest with the population of 125000 plants ha−1 receiving N225 P45 K75 kg ha−1.Light absorption was maximum at densely plant population with N225P45K75 kg ha−1. Response of soil-plant-analysis development (SPAD) value to planting geometry and fertilizer level was found significant. Plants grown with 40 cm × 20 cm spacing (125000 plants ha−1) with recommended ferltilizer dose + 50% N- P- K of RF gave the highest dehusked cob yield over the years (3.42 and 3.73 t ha–1) which was followed by 40cm × 20 cm (1,25,000 plants ha−1) with recommended fertilizer dose + 25% N-P-K of RF. Though S1F3 combination gave the highest gross return (Tk.333140 ha–1 in 2019-20 and Tk. 378900 ha–1 in 2020-21) but the highest benefit cost ratio over the years (3.64 and 3.83) was recorded in S1F2 treatment. The overall results indicated that 40 cm × 20 cm (1,25,000 plants ha−1) with fertilizer dose of RFD + 25% NPK (N187.5 P37.5K62.5 S25Zn3. 5B1.5 kg ha−1) might be economically profitable for baby corn production.

Bangladesh Agron. J. 2023, 26(1): 96-103
On locating Proto-Uralic
Authors: Häkkinen Jaakko
Published: November 2023

In recent years the debate regarding the Proto-Uralic homeland has again intensified. However, not all the relevant arguments have been considered thoroughly. Therefore, in the present article their validity and weight are evaluated. The article also develops further concepts and methodology for reconstruction of stages of Uralic, making it possible to compare Uralic stages to the Indo-Iranian loanword layers with higher resolution than before. As a result, the paper locates Late Proto-Uralic and successive stages in the Central Ural Region, matching the Koptyaki Culture (dated to the early 2nd millennium BCE) and its local predecessor.
Ein Opus magnum der historischen Phraseologie
Authors: Saarinen Sirkka
Published: November 2023

Besprechung

Forgács, Tamás. 2021. Történeti frazeológia: A történeti szólás- és közmondáskutatás kézikönyve [Historische Phraseologie: Handbuch der historischen phraseologischen Forschung] (Segédkönyvek a nyelvészeti tanulmányozásához 218). Budapest: Tinta Könyvkiadó. 476 S.
Descolonización y resignificación de los museos desde los derechos culturales
Authors: Blanco-Uribe Quintero Alberto José
Published: November 2023

Texto para el debate 27 de la Revista PH 111 (febrero 2024) sobre Descolonizar el museo y resignificar los monumentos: la escena del crimen.
Development of contextual-based digital mathematics learning media for junior high school students
Authors: Hakim Luqman Nur , Hartanto Suryo , Amelia Fitrah , Sitanggang Pardomuan
Published: November 2023

Learning Media used in the learning process is not optimal, students have difficulty in understanding mathematical concepts.Digital Learning media are needed according to the needs of students, which are easily accessible and support students in internal and external learning activities. The purpose of the research is to develop contextual-based digital mathematics learning media for Junior High School students that are valid, practical, and effective. Types of research, Research Development with ADDIE Development model: Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation and Evaluation. The study was conducted with students subject SMPN 51 Batam. Research instruments in the form of questionnaires of material experts, media experts, student response questionnaires, educator response questionnaires and learning outcomes test questions, were declared valid and reliable. Based on the results of the study, the development of Learning media achieved aspects of the validity of the material expert at 3.78 (very valid) and media expert 3.77 (very valid), small group trials 82.62 percent (practical) and the response of educators 90.83 percent (very practical). and aspects of media effectiveness 73.68 percent (effective). Based on the results of the study, it was concluded that contextual-based digital mathematics learning Media for Junior High School students that have been developed are valid, practical and effective, developed media can be chosen as an alternative for learning mathematics causes attractive and interactive design view, with contextual mathematics.
MAKNA TRADISI ASAM GARAM DALAM RITUAL PENGOBATAN PADA MASYARAKAT PULAU JALOH KOTA BATAM
Authors: YANTI FITRI
Published: November 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menjelaskan makna Tradisi Asam Garam dalam ritual pengobatan di Pulau Jaloh Kota Batam. Jenis penelitian ini adalah penelitian kualitatif. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode deskriptif. Pengumpulan data dilakukan melalui observasi, wawancara dan dokumentasi. Teknik analisis data menggunakan model Miles dan Huberman yang terdiri dari reduksi data, penyajian data, serta kesimpulan dan verifikasi. Hasil penelitian ini menjelaskan bahwa pelaksanaan Tradisi Asam Garam di Pulau Jaloh dilaksanakan setiap selesai melakukan ritual pengobatan. Bahan-bahan yang diperlukan dalam Tradisi Asam Garam yaitu asam, garam dan air. Makna dari Tradisi Asam Garam untuk pengeras tubuh supaya sakit yang dialami tidak kembali. Setiap bahan yang digunakan pada Tradisi Asam Garam memiliki makna, seperti asam, yang memiliki makna bahwa asam itu rasanya asam artinya segala doa yang dibacakan bisa terkabul, kemudian garam yang memiliki makna bahwa garam itu rasanya asin artinya segala doa yang dibacakan bisa manjur, kemudian air yang dibacakan doa memiliki makna untuk melindungi orang yang sakit dari gangguan setan, selanjutnya doa yang memiliki makna untuk menyembuhkan orang yang sakit.
NILAI-NILAI SOSIAL DALAM TRADISI KUPATAN DI DESA DURENAN TRENGGALEK
Authors: Ngatiyah Nasru - , Hendriani Dita - , Hendriani Dita -
Published: November 2023

Penelitian ini mengkaji tentang nilai-nilai sosial dalam tradisi kupatan di Desa Durenan Trenggalek. Tradisi Kupatan merupakan kegiatan sosial yang melibatkan seluruh masyarakat dalam usaha untuk memperoleh ketentraman dan keselamatan. Rumusan masalah dalam penelitian ini adalah bagaimana sejarah tradisi kupatan di Desa Durenan Trenggalek, proses pelaksanaan tradisi Kupatan di Desa Durenan Trenggalek, nilai-nilai sosial dalam tradisi Kupatan di Desa Durenan Trenggalek, serta tanggapan masyarakat terhadap adanya tradisi Kupatan di Desa Durenan Trenggalek. Jenis penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah kualitatif dengan pendekatan etnografi. Dalam penelitian ini pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan teknik observasi, wawancara dan dokumentasi. Hasil penelitian ini adalah 1) tradisi kupatan merupakan salah satu bentuk warisan budaya leluhur yang sampai sekarang masih tetap dilaksanakan dan dilestarikan. Tradisi ini menjadi ciri khas dari desa Durenan Kabupaten Trenggalek. Pelaksanaan tradisi Kupatan diadakan setelah 7 hari dari pelaksanaan Hari Raya Iedul Fitri. 2) tahapan proses pelaksanaan tradisi kupatan diantaranya adalah kegiatan Puasa Syawal, arak-arakan gunungan kupat, silaturahmi kepada sesepuh desa, dan perayaan kupatan di Desa Durenan. 3) Nilai-nilai sosial dalam tradisi Kupatan diantaranya adalah nilai gotong royong, nilai solidaritas sosial, nilai sedekah, dan yang terakhir yaitu nilai hidup rukun. 4) masyarakat Durenan menyambut dengan baik tradisi ini, hal tersebut dikarenakan dengan adanya tradisi Kupatan ini dapat menyatukan masyarakat.
PERAN GURU SEJARAH DALAM MENINGKATKAN MINAT BELAJAR SEJARAH SISWA PADA MASA PANDEMI COVID-19 DI SMKN 5 BATAM T.A. 2020/2021
Authors: Yanti Fitri , Latifatunnisa Latifatunnisa
Published: November 2023

Pada masa pandemi Covid-19, guru memilki peran yang cukup berbeda dengan masa normal dalam proses belajar mengajar. Tuntutan guru untuk lebih kreatif semakin menantang termasuk guru pendidikan sejarah di SMKN 5 Batam. Penelitian ini difokuskan pada peran guru sejarah di SMKN 5 Batam dalam meningkatkan minat belajar siswa di masa pandemi Covid 19. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mendeskripsikan peranan guru dan faktor pendukung serta penghambat peran guru sejarah di SMKN 5 Batam dalam meningkatkan minat belajar Sejarah siswa di masa pandemi covid-19. Jenis penelitian ini adalah kualitatif dengan metode deskriptif. Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan metode observasi, wawancara, kuesioner, dan dokumentasi. Teknik analisa data menggunakan model Miles and Huberman yaitu: reduksi data, penyajian data, dan penarikan kesimpulan. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa guru sejarah di SMKN 5 Batam menjalankan peran yang berbeda dalam mengajar di tengah pandemi Covid-19. Di antara peran tersebut adalah: guru sebagai pendidik senantiasa mengajar dalam jaringan, guru sebagai informator yang memberikan informasi terbaru untuk siswa, guru sebagai director yang mengarahakan pembelajaran guna berjalan sesuai dengan yang diharapkan, guru sebagai komunikator yang melakukan komunikasi dengan siswa, wali murid dan sesama guru, guru sebagai motivator yang memberikan motivasi kepada siswa, guru sebagai administrator yang merancang pembelajaran, guru sebagai evaluator yang mengevaluasi, dan guru sebagai aktor yang berperan dalam proses pembelajaran .
COGAN: SIMBOLISASI LEGITIMASI KESULTANAN RIAU-LINGGA
Authors: Rambe Yasir Maulana
Published: November 2023

Salah satu simbol legitimasi kekuasaan yang ada di Kesultanan Riau Lingga yakni adalah cogan. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode historis. Metode historis terdiri dari empat tahapan yakni, Heuristik ( Pengumpulan sumber/Data), Verifikasi ( Kritik Sumber), Interpretasi dan Historiografi. Bentuk fisik cogan seperti daun sirih yang dianggap menyerupai ujung tombak. Dengan pahatan bermotif rangkaian bunga-bunga pada tepinya. Pada bagian utama yang menyerupai daun ini terdapat pahatan tulisan Arab Melayu. Kemudian bagian yang menyerupai daun ini diapit oleh bingkai yang pada bagian puncak atasnya terdapat hiasan seperti buah dengan kelopak dan pada ujung bagian bawahnya terdapat selongsong untuk tempat meletakkan tongkat pembawanya. Cogan terbuat dari dua unsur logam, pertama emas 22 karat yang dipergunakan sebagai lempengan yang menyerupai daun, Regalia Kesultanan Johor, Riau, Lingga, dan Pahang yag dimana terdapat Cogan didalamnya merupakan simbol legitimasi kekuasaan. Regalia dan cogan milik Kesultanan Johor-Riau-Lingga, dan Pahang dapat direbut oleh Belanda melalui proses kekerasan dan intimidasi yang dilakukan terhadap Engku Putri di Pulau Penyengat. Tidak lama berselang akhirnya pada tanggal 27 November 1822, Sultan Abdul Rahman ditabalkan secara adat dengan menggunakan Regalia dan menyerahkan semua alat kebesaran simbol legitimasi yang sebelumnya berada dalam simpanan Engku Putri Raja Hamidah.
KOMUNIKASI POLITIK DAN CITRA PARTAI (STUDI PADA PARTAI GELOMBANG RAKYAT INDONESIA KABUPATEN SUMBAWA)
Authors: Firmansyah Joni , Apriansyah Aldi , Leriska Ninis Tri
Published: November 2023

ABSTRACTThis study aims to analyze the political communication and political image conducted by Partai Gelora Kabupaten Sumbawa as a new party ahead of the 2024 Election. The research method used in this study is a literature review and in-depth interviews with several related sources. The data analysis method uses data triangulation techniques which are the data collection stage, the data reduction stage, and the data presentation stage to draw conclusions. The results show that Partai Gelora Kabupaten Sumbawa strives to show its identity and distinctiveness from its previous identity. Partai Gelora uses mass media, leadership figures, and party officials in an effort to build its political image. The findings of this study indicate that Partai Gelora Kabupaten Sumbawa prioritizes social media campaigns as a means of building its political image. Through this means, Partai Gelora understands that as a new party, identity and image are important in attracting public interest and introducing the party widely.ABSTRAKStudi ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis komunikasi politik dan citra politik yang dilakukan oleh Partai Gelora Kabupaten Sumbawa sebagai partai baru menjelang Pemilu 2024. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah studi literatur dan wawancara mendalam dengan beberapa narasumber terkait. Metode analisis data menggunakan teknik triangulasi data yang tahap koleksi data, tahap reduksi data dan tahap penyajian data untuk ditarik menjadi kesimpulan. Data-data yang disajikan kemudian disesuaikan dengan kebutuhan peneliti dalam menganalisis masalah penelitian. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Partai Gelora Kabupaten Sumbawa berupaya menunjukkan identitas dan jati dirinya yang berbeda dari identitas sebelumnya. Partai Gelora menggunakan media massa dan ketokohan serta figuritas dari pengurus partainya sebagai upaya membangun citra politiknya. Temuan di dalam penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa Partai Gelora Kabupaten Sumbawa mengutamakan kampanye media sosial sebagai sarana membangun citra politiknya. Melalui sarana tersebut, Partai Gelora memahami sebagai partai baru, identitas dan citra menjadi penting untuk menarik minat publik dan memperkenalkan partai secara luas.
PENGARUH CAR, BOPO, DAN FDR TERHADAP NPF BANK UMUM SYARIAH
Authors: Veriana Luluk , Wirman Wirman
Published: November 2023

Non-Performing Financing (NPF) merupakan alat untuk menilai seberapa baik pembiayaa pada suatu bank. Non-Performing Financing adalah suatu keaadaan ketika perjanjian pembayaran pinjaman dilaggar, dan mengarah pada kerugian. Tingkat pembiayaan bermasalah yang tinggi akan mempersulit keadaan dan juga menurunkan tingkat kesehatan bank syariah. Oleh karena itu, analisis ini berusaha untuk menilai dan mengevaluasi pengaruh CAR, BOPO dan FDR terhadap NPF bank syariah di lndonesia. Pengamatan ini bersifat kuantitatif menggunakan model yang sesuai dengan penelitian kasual komparatif. Temuan menunjukan bahwa CAR dan FDR berpengaruh signifikan terhadap NPF, sementara itu, BOPO tidak berpengaruh signifikan terhadap NPF.
DETERMINAN RETURN ON ASSETS PADA PT BANK BCA SYARIAH PERIODE 2019-2021
Authors: Putri Ajeng Eka , Suhono Suhono , Sulastri Eva Maria
Published: November 2023

Tujuan dari penelitian ini untuk menganalisis pengaruh pembiayaan mudharabah, pembiayaan musyarakah dan sewa ijarah terhadap Return on Assets. Populasi penelitian adalah PT Bank BCA Syariah. Sampel dari penelitian adalah laporan keuangan bulanan dari periode 2019-2021 yang telah dipublikasikan di website perusahaan. Total sampel adalah 36 data. Penelitian ini memakai pendekatan kuantitatif. Teknik analisis yang digunakan adalah analisis regresi linier berganda menggunakan SPSS versi 25. Hasil dari penelitian yaitu Pembiayaan Mudharabah tidak memiIiki pengaruh signifikan terhadap Returnon Assets; Pembiayaan Musyarakah memiIiki pengaruh positif secara signifikan terhadap Return on Assets; Sewa Ijarah memiliki pengaruh negatif secara signifikan terhadap Returnon Assets; Pembiayaan Mudharabah,Pembiayaan Musyarakahdan Sewa Ijarah secara simultan berpengaruh terhadap Return on Assets sejumIah 76,9%. Sisanya sebesar 23,1% dipengaruhi oleh faktor lain yang tidak tercakup dalam penelitian ini.
ANALISIS KINERJA KEUANGAN PERUSAHAAN BUMN KARYA PERIODE TAHUN 2013 - 2022
Authors: Hidayat Muhammad , Afifah Jasmine , Mulyati Sri
Published: November 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisa kinerja keuangan perusahaan BUMN Karya periode tahun (2013-2022) yang meliputi Pendapatan, Laba Bersih, selsih Kas dan Hutang lancar, rasio Profitabilitas, likuiditas dan Solvabilitas. Adapun perusahaan yang dianalisis terbatas pada PT.Wijaya Karya, PT.Adhi Karya, PT.Waskita Karya, PT. Hutama Karya dan PT. PP Persero. Penelitian ini menggunakan analisis deskriptif kwantitatif dengan bantuan grafik dan analisas rasio. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan tren yang sama terjadi untuk semua perusahaan yaitu trend Pendapatan dan Laba Bersih meningkat tahun 2014-2019 tapi tahun 2020-2022 mengalami tren penurunan. Kinerja keuangan berdasarkan analisis Net Profit Margin berkinerja kurang baik. Kinerja keuangan berdasarkan rasio likuiditas (Cash Ratio) memiliki kinerja kurang baik kecuali PT.Hutama Karya berkinerja baik. Kinerja keuangan dari solvabilitas (Debt to Equity Ratio) menunjukkan kinerja kurang baik pada masing-masing perusahaan.
IUS CONSTITUENDUM KEWENANGAN DAN FUNGSI DEWAN PERWAKILAN DAERAH (DPD) BERDASARKAN TEORI DEMOKRASI
Authors: Seftiani Refina , Abra Emy Hajar , Azrianti Seftia
Published: November 2023

Gerakan reformasi menjadi salah satu wujud perkembangan Indonesia sebagai suatu bangsa menjadi pertanda penyesuaian struktur berbangsa dan bernegara dengan perubahan zaman dan tuntutan yang berkembang. Masa transisi Indonesia menuju demokrasi adalah reformasi dibidang ketatanegaraan yang mencakup perubahan konstitusi. Pembentukan DPD inilah yang menimbulkan banyaknya problematika yang ada pada ketatanegraan kita sehingga membuat struktur ketatanegaraan kita perlu dilakukannya ius constituendum untuk memperkuat lembaga negara tersebut. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui apa saja problematika yang terjadi pada lembaga perwakilan yakni DPD juga untuk mengetahui apa saja yang dapat dilakukan perubahan melalui ius constituendum. Metode yang digunakan adalah yuridis normatif, dengan pendekatan yang berdasarkan perundang-undangan, teori-teori hukum dan konsep-konsep yang berhubungan dengan penelitian ini. Hasil dari penelitian ini dapat mengetahui seperti apa problematika DPD yang terjadi pasca amandemen dan kewenangan dan fungsi DPD yang harus diperkuat melalui ius constituendum demi bicameral yang setara.
KEBENARAN MATERIIL DOKUMEN APOSTILLE
Authors: Riyanto Agus , Bhakti Rizki Tri Anugrah
Published: November 2023

Fungsi Sertifikat Apostille adalah mengotentifikasi keabsahan asal mula (origin) dokumen beserta tanda tangan pejabat yang mengesahkan dokumen publik tertentu, di antaranya ijazah, akta lahir, akta cerai, surat kuasa, surat kematian dan dokumen lainnya. Penerbitan Sertifikat Apostille akan memberi kemudahan bagi masyarakat yang membutuhkan legalisasi dokumen untuk kebutuhan aktivitas di luar negeri. Dibandingkan di masa sebelumnya, kemudahan satu langkah penerbitan Sertifikat Apostille yang dapat langsung digunakan di 121 negara pihak Konvensi Apostille dapat mendukung lalu lintas dokumen publik antarnegara menjadi lebih cepat dan efisien untuk menjawab kebutuhan masyarakat internasional yang interconnected pada era globalisasi. Hal ini berlaku sejak Indonesia menjadi negara anggota Konvensi Apostille setelah meratifikasi Convention Abolishing The Requirement of Legalisation for Foreign Public Documents (atau disebut juga Konvensi Apostille) Peraturan Presiden No. 2 Tahun 2021 pada 5 Januari 2021. Problem yuridisnya, apakah Sertifikat Apostille menjamin kebenaran materiil dari surat originnya?
Evaluation of the effectiveness of immunomodulatory therapy in the treatment of traumatic lesions of the oral mucosa in orthodontic patients
Authors: Proskokova S. V. , Voronetskaya V. A. , Enikeev A. M. , Kutuzov D. N. , Pirogov A. E. , Bogdanova K. M.
Published: November 2023

Relevance. The problem of traumatization of the oral mucosa with fixed orthodontic structures, especially at the initial stage of treatment, is one of the most urgent in orthodontics. Prolonged use of such structures often leads to adverse reactions from the oral mucosa in the form of chronic mechanical injury, burning, soreness, etc. The effectiveness of the use of alginate plates of the drug «Superlimf» as a correction of side effects from non-removable orthodontic equipment has been studied.

Objective. To study the effectiveness of the use of the domestic cytokine preparation «Superlimf» in the form of alginate plates in the treatment of traumatic lesions of the oral mucosa that occur in patients at the stages of orthodontic treatment with fixed equipment.

Materials and methods. The study included 35 people aged 18 to 25 years, of which 17 people used alginate plates «Superlimf» and 18 people – the control group – used orthodontic wax to protect the mucosa from injury.

Results. The use of alginate plates «Superlimf» showed a reduction in the duration of the inflammatory process, a significant reduction in painful manifestations and swelling.

Conclusion. The data obtained indicate the effectiveness of the drug «Superlimf» and allow us to recommend it for use in dental clinical practice.
Acoustic-to-Articulatory Inversion for Pronunciation Training
Authors: McGhee Charles , Knill Kate , Gales Mark
Published: November 2023

Visual feedback of articulators using Electromagnetic- Articulography (EMA) has been shown to aid the acquisition of non-native speech sounds. Using physical EMA sensors is expensive and invasive making it impractical for providing real-world pronunciation feedback. Our work focuses on us- ing neural Acoustic-to-Articulatory Inversion (AAI) models to map speech directly to EMA sensor positions. Self-Supervised Learning (SSL) speech models, such as HuBERT, can produce representations of speech that have been shown to significantly improve performance on AAI tasks. Probing experiments have indicated that certain layers and iterations of SSL models produce representations that may yield better inversion performance than others. In this work, we build on these probing results to create an AAI model that improves upon a state-of-the-art baseline inversion model and evaluate the model’s suitability for second language pronunciation training.
Exploring the effects of face coverings on the perception of female speech: insights from an audio-visual and exposure experiment
Authors: Patman Chloe , McDougall Kirsty , Foulkes Paul
Published: November 2023

This study tested the ability of 80 listeners in comprehending face mask speech, presented in an audio-video visual context. Nine speakers of southern standard British English produced a total of 120 sentences, across three conditions (no mask, cotton mask and niqāb). The speakers were recorded in an audio-video visual context with two types of stimuli generated for a listening test. First, control stimuli, with matching audio and video components. Secondly, mismatched stimuli. E.g the speaker spoke with a cotton mask but was visually presented wearing no mask. The sentence stimuli were taken from Kalikow et al. (1977) and modified to incorporate minimal pairs likely to yield confusion in ordinary speech (/f/ and /s/, /f/ and /h/, /p/ and /k/, /p/ and /h/ and /s/ and /ʃ/). For example, “Molly thought about the FORD/SWORD”. After watching the video, participants saw two images with their task being to pick, via keyboard response, the image indicated in the sentence. One set of listener participants had no exposure to face coverings and the other had daily exposure. Neither, increased exposure to face coverings nor face mask audio (cotton mask and niqāb) had an effect on performance accuracy. However, the visual face covering (cotton mask and niqāb) corresponded with a significant reduction in performance accuracy.
STUDENTS’ MOTIVATION FACTORS IN READING ENGLISH TEXTS AT ELESP BATCH 2021
Authors: Rahmadina Yulinda , Sutiono Cayandrawati , Elyani Eka Puteri
Published: November 2023

This study aims to find out dominant factors that play a role in students’ intrinsic and extrinsic motivation in reading English text Reading plays an essential role in language learning, particularly for EFL students. Students read English texts whether for academic purposes, gaining information, or for pleasure. To have excellent reading skills, students need to have the motivation to read various kinds of reading material. Motivation has long been identified as one of the main factors affecting English language learning. Some students are motivated to read in English intrinsically and extrinsically. This research is a quantitative descriptive study. The participants are 86 students of ELESP Lambung Mangkurat University Batch 2021. The researchers use total sampling because the total population is less than 100. A questionnaire is used as the instrument in this research. The result shows the factor that plays the most role in extrinsic motivation is grades and the lowest is social sharing. Meanwhile, the factor that plays the most role in intrinsic motivation is curiosity and the lowest is preference for challenge. Furthermore, students are found more motivated extrinsically in reading English rather than intrinsically motivated.
Transformation of struvite from wastewater to a hydrogen fuel storage compound ammonia borane
Authors: Dingra Nin , Witty Michael , Celis Marie , Boppana Narendra , Ayudhya Theppawut
Published: November 2023

Ammonia borane (NH3BH3) is a carrier of hydrogen gas that is known as a carbon-free renewable energy source. A high hydrogen content of ammonia borane and its stability in air at ambient temperatures make it a valuable molecule for its potential use as a hydrogen storage compound. In this study, we investigate a new approach for synthesizing ammonia borane using wastewater-derived ammonia source. Wastewater recycling has always been a global interest towards sustainability. In addition to reclaiming the water, recycling nutrients in wastewater is a topic of interest. Nutrients such as nitrogen, magnesium, and phosphorous are readily recovered from wastewater as struvite (NH4MgPO4·6H2O). This new process involves converting urine into struvite, and then reacting struvite with alkali borohydrides to produce a high-purity ammonia borane. The use of mild reaction conditions without extensive purification process, together with high purity ammonia borane product make this process a desirable course of action for recycling the nitrogen waste. In the course of moving towards a sustainable environment, the energy and wastewater industries will benefit from this combined process of nitrogen removal from wastewater to generate a renewable carbon-free energy molecule.
Modeling habitat quality for rangeland ecosystem restoration in the Alledeghi Wildlife reserve, Ethiopia
Authors: Admasu Simeneh
Published: November 2023

Assessment of habitat quality is important for the planning and management of conservation measures at a landscape level. The Alledeghi Wildlife Reserve (AWR) is an iconic wildlife conservation area because it not only contains charismatic wildlife species but also serves as a reliable livestock rangeland. The study aimed to assess habitat quality based on landscape-specific habitat threat information in the AWR using InVEST software. it is the first attempt to model the habitat quality of the landscape using expert-driven information. Six important threats were considered, namely, invasive species, bush encroachment, livestock incursion, fire, habitat destruction, and distance to roads. The quantified habitat quality was classified into low, moderate, and high. The results revealed that the quality of the habitat declined in the study area between 1998 and 2016. The high-quality habitat had a larger extent covering about 837 km2 (57.4%) in 1998 but it was reduced by 128 km2 (64%) during the study period. Conversely, moderate quality and low-quality habitats have increased from 78 km2 (5.35%) in 1998 to 206 km2 (14.12%) in 2016; and from 544 km2 (37.3%) in 1998 to 619 km2 (42.13%) in 2016 respectively. The decline in habitat quality was mainly associated with increased livestock incursion and expansion of invasive species which resulted in rapid land use changes. Thus, it is critical to undertake serious conservation measures to enhance biodiversity and ecosystem services in the AWR and to substantively contribute to the improved livelihood of the pastoral community.
Temporal and geographical changes in the intestinal helminth fauna of striped dolphins, Stenella coeruleoalba, in the western Mediterranean: a long-term analysis (1982 - 2016)
Authors: García-Gallego Alicia , Raga Juan Antonio , Fraija-Fernández Natalia , Aznar Francisco Javier
Published: November 2023

Temporal and geographical changes in the infections of intestinal helminths of striped dolphins, Stenella coeruleoalba were investigated in waters off the Spanish Mediterranean coast based on a sample of 233 dolphins stranded during 1982-2016. The influence of host-related factors (length and sex) and seasonality was also examined. Four helminth species had a prevalence > 5%, including adults of three cestodes, i.e, Trigonocotyle globicephalae (prevalence: 5.2%), Tetrabothrius forsteri (94.4%) and Strobilocephalus triangularis (18%); and juveniles of an acanthocephalan of the genus Bolbosoma (15.9%), identified as B. capitatum using molecular techniques. One immature specimen of Diphyllobothrium sp. (Cestoda) was also found in a single dolphin, and two juveniles of Bolbosoma balaenae in two dolphins. Trigonocotyle globicephalae seems to have low specificity for striped dolphins and was only found sporadically. Tetrabothrius forsteri and S. triangularis experienced a slight vs. a strong decrease, followed by a recovery, in infection levels throughout the study period, which are compatible with a reduction in the striped dolphin population caused by the Dolphin Morbillivirus outbreak in 1990. Infections of B. capitatum, a parasite typical from pilot whales, suddenly increased in 1990, then vanished. This rapid increase and following decrease are puzzling and can hardly be explained by a single factor. Infections of any helminth species were apparently uncorrelated to geographic origin, dolphin sex or season, but parasite load decreased with dolphin length in the case of T. forsteri and S. triangularis. To our knowledge, this study represents the first investigation of multi-decadal changes in cetacean parasites.
Efficacy and safety of immune checkpoint inhibitors and targeted therapies in resected melanoma: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Sheng Feng , Yan Yulan , Zeng Baoqi
Published: November 2023

Background: Multiple immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and targeted therapies have been widely used as adjuvant treatments for high-risk resected melanoma, with unclear comparative efficacy and safety.

Methods: PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched from database inception until 6 June 2023. We included RCTs that assess adjuvant ICIs or targeted therapies in high-risk resected melanoma. Frequentist random-effect network meta-analyses (NMA) were performed. The primary outcome was recurrence-free survival (RFS).

Results: Eleven trials including 10,712 patients and comparing 10 treatments (nivolumab [Nivo], ipilimumab 3 mg/kg [Ipi3], Ipi10, pembrolizumab [Pemb], vemurafenib [Vemu], bevacizumab [Beva], Nivo + Ipi1, Nivo + Ipi3, dabrafenib plus trametinib [Dab + Tram], and placebo/observation [Pla/Obs]) were included. NMA showed that all treatments showed RFS benefit over placebo/observation except Ipi3 (hazard ratio [HR], 0.78; 95% CI, 0.58–1.05). Combination therapy of Nivo + Ipi3 was the most effective treatment, which significantly improved RFS compared with other treatments. NMA also showed that all treatments were associated with an increased risk of grade 3-5 adverse events over placebo/observation except Nivo (HR, 1.25; 95% CI, 0.87–1.80). NMA suggested that Nivo and Pemb were the two safest treatments except for placebo/observation. Although three combination therapies ranked as the top three in terms of RFS, they did not show significant overall survival benefits compared to monotherapies including Pemb, Nivo, Ipi3, and Ipi10.

Conclusion: In this NMA, adjuvant Nivo and Pemb are the preferred options in patients with resected melanoma considering the benefits and harms. Combination therapy of Nivo + Ipi3 may be a promising strategy, but more evidence from phase 3 trials is needed.

Systematic Review Registration:https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=438667, PROSPERO (CRD42023438667).
End-to-end decentralized formation control using a graph neural network-based learning method
Authors: Jiang Chao , Huang Xinchi , Guo Yi
Published: November 2023

Multi-robot cooperative control has been extensively studied using model-based distributed control methods. However, such control methods rely on sensing and perception modules in a sequential pipeline design, and the separation of perception and controls may cause processing latencies and compounding errors that affect control performance. End-to-end learning overcomes this limitation by implementing direct learning from onboard sensing data, with control commands output to the robots. Challenges exist in end-to-end learning for multi-robot cooperative control, and previous results are not scalable. We propose in this article a novel decentralized cooperative control method for multi-robot formations using deep neural networks, in which inter-robot communication is modeled by a graph neural network (GNN). Our method takes LiDAR sensor data as input, and the control policy is learned from demonstrations that are provided by an expert controller for decentralized formation control. Although it is trained with a fixed number of robots, the learned control policy is scalable. Evaluation in a robot simulator demonstrates the triangular formation behavior of multi-robot teams of different sizes under the learned control policy.
Stratification of βSβ+ Compound Heterozygotes Based on L-Glutamine Administration and RDW: Focusing on Disease Severity
Authors: Giannaki Aimilia , Georgatzakou Hara Τ. , Fortis Sotirios P. , Anastasiadi Alkmini T. , Pavlou Efthimia G. , Nomikou Efrosyni G. , Drandaki Maria P. , Kotsiafti Angeliki , Xydaki Aikaterini , Fountzoula Christina , Papageorgiou Effie G. , Tzounakas Vassilis L. , Kriebardis Anastasios G.
Published: November 2023

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is heterogeneous in terms of manifestation severity, even more so when in compound heterozygosity with beta-thalassemia. The aim of the present study was to stratify βSβ+ patient blood samples in a severity-dependent manner. Blood from thirty-two patients with HbS/β-thalassemia compound heterozygosity was examined for several parameters (e.g., hemostasis, inflammation, redox equilibrium) against healthy controls. Additionally, SCD patients were a posteriori (a) categorized based on the L-glutamine dose and (b) clustered into high-/low-RDW subgroups. The patient cohort was characterized by anemia, inflammation, and elevated coagulation. Higher-dose administration of L-glutamine was associated with decreased markers of inflammation and oxidation (e.g., intracellular reactive oxygen species) and an altered coagulation profile. The higher-RDW group was characterized by increased hemolysis, elevated markers of inflammation and stress erythropoiesis, and oxidative phenomena (e.g., membrane-bound hemoglobin). Moreover, the levels of hemostasis parameters (e.g., D-Dimers) were greater compared to the lower-RDW subgroup. The administration of higher doses of L-glutamine along with hydroxyurea seems to attenuate several features in SCD patients, probably by enhancing antioxidant power. Moreover, anisocytosis may alter erythrocytes’ coagulation processes and hemolytic propensity. This results in the disruption of the redox and pro-/anti-inflammatory equilibria, creating a positive feedback loop by inducing stress erythropoiesis and, thus, the occurrence of a mixed erythrocyte population.
Acute Otitis Media and Facial Paralysis in Children: A Systemic Review and Proposal of an Operative Algorithm
Authors: Fichera Piergabriele , Bruschini Luca , Berrettini Stefano , Capobianco Silvia , Fiacchini Giacomo
Published: November 2023

Acute otitis media (AOM) is one of the most common ENT diseases in children. In the antibiotic/post-antibiotic era, facial paralysis is a very rare complication of AOM (0.004–0.005%). Despite the rarity of this complication, it should be known by all physicians for proper therapeutic management to avoid serious sequelae. The aim of this review is to provide a management guide based on the current literature. Materials and Methods: Fifteen studies published between 2000 and 2022 were selected, including 120 patients (62 M/58 F) with an average age of 4.96 years old (range = 4 months–16 years; SD: 4.2). The paralysis frequently has a sudden onset and is of a severe grade (medium House–Brackmann (HB) score at onset: 4.68; SD: 0.5); however, it tends to have an almost complete recovery in most patients (88.49% HB 1 at follow-up). Results: Its first-line treatment must be based on the use of antibiotics (beta-lactam antibiotics as penicillins or cephalosporins). Corticosteroids should be used concomitantly for their anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective actions; however, there is no unanimity between authors about their application. Myringotomy, with or without ventilation tube insertion, is indicated in cases where the tympanic membrane is intact. Other kinds of surgery should be performed only in patients who have a worsening of their AOM symptoms or a worsening in HB score even with clinical treatment. Conclusions: The obtained data show that a conservative treatment can be sufficient for complete recovery in most patients, and it is preferred as the first-line therapy. Mastoidectomy should be performed only in patients with acute mastoiditis and without symptom improvement after a conservative approach. There are insufficient data in the current literature to provide clear selection criteria for patients who need to undergo mastoidectomy with facial nerve decompression. The choice of this treatment is based on an individual center expertise. Further studies are needed to clarify the role of corticosteroids and the role of facial nerve decompression in this clinical scenario.
CFD Study of Pressure Distribution on Recessed Faces of a Diamond C-Shaped Building
Authors: Kumar Arun , Meena Rahul Kumar , Raj Ritu , Khan Mohammad Iqbal , Khatib Jamal M.
Published: November 2023

A building situated in the flow path of the wind is subjected to differential velocity and pressure distribution around the envelope. Wind effects are influenced by and vary for each individual shape of a tall building. Tall building structures are considered as cantilever structures with fixed ends at the ground. Wind velocity acting along the height of the building makes the velocity and pressure distribution more complex; as the height of the building structure increases, wind velocity increases. This study discusses the effect of the wind on an irregular cross-section shape. The present study was conducted numerically with a building model placed in a virtual wind tunnel using the ANSYS (CFX 2020 Academic Version) software tool. Wind effects are investigated on a building model situated in a terrain category-II defined in IS: 875 (Part 3): 2015; wind scale model of 1:100 and turbulence intensity are at 5% and power law index α is considered to be 0.143. The validation and verification of the study were made by comparing pressure coefficients on different faces of a rectangular model of similar floor area and height as that taken for a C-plan dia-mond-shaped model under similar boundary conditions, wind environment, and solver setting of numerical setups. The values of surface pressures generated on the recessed faces of the model and wind flow patterns within the recessed cavity were studied at wind incident angles 0°, 30°, 60°, 105°, 135°, and 180°. The critical suction on all the recessed faces was observed to be at a 105° angle of wind attack.
Circulating Tumor Cells as Predictive and Prognostic Biomarkers in Solid Tumors
Authors: Capuozzo Maurizio , Ferrara Francesco , Santorsola Mariachiara , Zovi Andrea , Ottaiano Alessandro
Published: November 2023

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) have emerged as pivotal biomarkers with significant predictive and prognostic implications in solid tumors. Their presence in peripheral blood offers a non-invasive window into the dynamic landscape of cancer progression and treatment response. This narrative literature review synthesizes the current state of knowledge surrounding the multifaceted role of CTCs in predicting clinical outcomes and informing prognosis across a spectrum of solid tumor malignancies. This review delves into the evolving landscape of CTC-based research, emphasizing their potential as early indicators of disease recurrence, metastatic potential, and therapeutic resistance. Moreover, we have underscored the dynamic nature of CTCs and their implications for personalized medicine. A descriptive and critical analysis of CTC detection methodologies, their clinical relevance, and their associated challenges is also presented, with a focus on recent advancements and emerging technologies. Furthermore, we examine the integration of CTC-based liquid biopsies into clinical practice, highlighting their role in guiding treatment decisions, monitoring treatment efficacy, and facilitating precision oncology. This review highlights the transformative impact of CTCs as predictive and prognostic biomarkers in the management of solid tumors by promoting a deeper understanding of the clinical relevance of CTCs and their role in advancing the field of oncology.
Assessment of Joinability in Additively Manufactured Interlocking Structures
Authors: Kim Ye-rim , Kim Eun-ah , Choi Joon Phil , Ha Taeho , Won Soonho , Jeon Jong Bae , Kwon Se-hun , Lee Hak-sung
Published: November 2023

This study investigates the challenges of additively manufactured interlocking structures, emphasizing joinability issues due to thermal deformation. These challenges become pronounced when fabricating high-density structures without fully interconnected layers, a trait common in soft magnetic materials. Here, a detailed analysis assessing deformation concerning pin thickness and build orientation in a representative interlocking model is performed. Utilizing stress and thermal simulations of the additive manufacturing process, it is shown that a compensated design considerably enhances the joinability of these structures. These findings offer valuable perspectives for advancing the design of additive manufacturing components, particularly in soft magnetic materials such as electric motor stators, which require both insulation and density.
Cellular-Level Analysis of Retinal Blood Vessel Walls Based on Phase Gradient Images
Authors: Mujat Mircea , Sampani Konstantina , Patel Ankit H. , Sun Jennifer K. , Iftimia Nicusor
Published: November 2023

Diseases such as diabetes affect the retinal vasculature and the health of the neural retina, leading to vision problems. We describe here an imaging method and analysis procedure that enables characterization of the retinal vessel walls with cellular-level resolution, potentially providing markers for eye diseases. Adaptive optics scanning laser ophthalmoscopy is used with a modified detection scheme to include four simultaneous offset aperture channels. The magnitude of the phase gradient derived from these offset images is used to visualize the structural characteristics of the vessels. The average standard deviation image provides motion contrast and enables segmentation of the vessel lumen. Segmentation of blood vessel walls provides quantitative measures of geometrical characteristics of the vessel walls, including vessel and lumen diameters, wall thickness, and wall-to-lumen ratio. Retinal diseases may affect the structural integrity of the vessel walls, their elasticity, their permeability, and their geometrical characteristics. The ability to measure these changes is valuable for understanding the vascular effects of retinal diseases, monitoring disease progression, and drug testing. In addition, loss of structural integrity of the blood vessel wall may result in microaneurysms, a hallmark lesion of diabetic retinopathy, which may rupture or leak and further create vision impairment. Early identification of such structural abnormalities may open new treatment avenues for disease management and vision preservation. Functional testing of retinal circuitry through high-resolution measurement of vasodilation as a response to controlled light stimulation of the retina (neurovascular coupling) is another application of our method and can provide an unbiased evaluation of one’s vision and enable early detection of retinal diseases and monitoring treatment results.
Prenatal Ultrasound Diagnosis of Klippel–Trenaunay Syndrome
Authors: Gică Nicolae , Dumitru Andreea , Panaitescu Anca Maria , Gică Corina , Peltecu Gheorghe , Ciobanu Anca Marina , Bălănescu Laura
Published: November 2023

Klippel–Trenaunay syndrome (KTS) is a very rare vascular malformation syndrome also referred to as a capillary–lymphatic–venous malformation with unknown aetiology. The aim of our paper is to highlight interesting images, regarding a rare case of foetal Klippel–Trenaunay syndrome diagnosed prenatally in our department and confirmed postnatally with a favourable evolution during the gestation and neonatal periods. This case was diagnosed at 26 weeks gestation and characterised through ultrasound by the presence of superficial multiple cystic structures of different sizes spreading over the left leg with hemihypertrophy and reduced mobility. The cystic lesions were spreading to the left buttock and the pelvic area. The right leg and upper limbs had normal appearance with good mobility. There were no signs of hyperdynamic circulation or foetal anaemia, but mild polyhydramnios was associated. The ultrasound findings were confirmed postnatally, the left leg presented multiple cystic lesions and port wine stains, and there was hypertrophy and fixed position, with favourable evolution at 6 months of life, when the size of the lesions began to decrease and the mobility of the leg improved.