bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in dispensing of medicines proposed for re-purposing in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia
Authors: Schaffer Andrea L. , Henry David , Zoega Helga , Elliott Julian H. , Pearson Sallie-Anne
Published: June 2022

Background

Since COVID-19 was first recognised, there has been ever-changing evidence and misinformation around effective use of medicines. Understanding how pandemics impact on medicine use can help policymakers act quickly to prevent harm. We quantified changes in dispensing of common medicines proposed for “re-purposing” due to their perceived benefits as therapeutic or preventive for COVID-19 in Australia.

Methods

We performed an interrupted time series analysis and cross-sectional study using nationwide dispensing claims data (January 2017-November 2020). We focused on six subsidized medicines proposed for re-purposing: hydroxychloroquine, azithromycin, ivermectin, colchicine, corticosteroids, and calcitriol (Vitamin D analog). We quantified changes in monthly dispensing and initiation trends during COVID-19 (March-November 2020) using autoregressive integrated moving average models and compared characteristics of initiators in 2020 and 2019.

Results

In March 2020, we observed a 99% (95%CI: 96%-103%) increase in hydroxychloroquine dispensing (approximately 22% attributable to new users), and a 199% increase (95%CI: 184%-213%) in initiation, with an increase in prescribing by general practitioners (42% in 2020 vs 25% in 2019) rather than specialists. These increases subsided following regulatory restrictions on prescribing. There was a small but sustained increase in ivermectin dispensing over multiple months, with an 80% (95%CI 42%-118%) increase in initiation in May 2020 following its first identification as potentially disease-modifying in April. Other than increases in March related to stockpiling, we observed no change in the initiation of calcitriol or colchicine during COVID-19. Dispensing of corticosteroids and azithromycin was lower than expected from April through November 2020.

Conclusions

While most increases in dispensing observed early on during COVID-19 were temporary and appear to be related to stockpiling among existing users, we observed increases in the initiation of hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin and a shift in prescribing patterns which may be related to the media hype around these medicines. A quick response by regulators can help limit inappropriate repurposing to lessen the impact on medicine supply and patient harm.
Decreased salivary α-amylase activity responding to citric acid stimulation in Myasthenia gravis with malnutrition
Authors: Huang Ye , Wang Wen-kai , Zheng Xiao-mei , Yang Long , Wang Li-hui , Qiu Xiang-hong , Chen Long-hui , Li Ru-liu , Lin Chuan-quan
Published: June 2022

Objectives

Malnutrition, defined according to Nutritional risk screening (NRS 2002), is commonly observed in patients of Myasthenia gravis (MG), a neuromuscular disorder manifested by varied degrees of skeletal muscle weakness. Because biochemical composition of saliva changes in correspondence to alterations in nutritional status, we tested our hypothesis that a certain saliva component(s) might serve as a biomarker(s) for nutrition status of MG, particularly for those MG patients with high risk of malnutrition.

Materials and methods

60 MG patients and 60 subjects belonging to the healthy control group (HCG) were enrolled in this case-control study. The salivary α-amylase (sAA) activity, salivary flow rate (SFR), pH, total protein density (TPD), and the concentrations of chloride and calcium ions in MG group with or without malnutrition were measured before and after citric acid stimulation. Thereafter, the relationship between sAA activity and BMI was determined in MG and HCG.

Results

Compared with HCG, more patients with malnutrition, increased TPD and chloride and calcium concentrations but decreased pH value and SFR both before and after acid stimulation, as well as reduced sAA activity, pH and TPD responses to acid stimulation. MG with malnutrition showed decreased sAA activity and TPD responding to acid stimulation compared with those without malnutrition. Compared with normal BMI, sAA activity response to acid stimulation was reduced in low BMI. There was a significant strong positive correlation between the ratio of sAA activity and BMI in MG.

Conclusions

Salivary biochemical characteristics are abnormally altered in MG with malnutrition. Altered sAA activity responding to acid stimulation was associated with malnutrition.

Clinical relevance

Decreased sAA activity responding to acid stimulation can reflect malnutrition state and may be one potential screening marker for MG patients with high risk of malnutrition.
Nailfold capillary patterns correlate with age, gender, lifestyle habits, and fingertip temperature
Authors: Nakajima Tadaaki , Nakano Shizuka , Kikuchi Akihiko , Matsunaga Yukiko T.
Published: June 2022

Nailfold capillaroscopy is a simple and noninvasive imaging tool to visualize the pattern of capillaries. Microvascular abnormalities have been previously observed in autoimmune disease such as systemic sclerosis and diabetes. Thus, early detection of microvascular dysfunction or changes has promising way for the one of the disease preventions. In this study, for routine health checkups, we evaluated the relationship between the structure of nailfold capillaries and lifestyle habits in healthy participants. First, we analyzed the correlation of structural parameters of nailfold capillaries with values of responses to questions on their lifestyle habits in 224 participants. The results suggested that an unhealthy lifestyle, including poor sleeping habits, smoking, intense exercise, and drinking alcohol, causes a change in the pattern of nailfold capillaries. We then investigated whether the pattern of nailfold capillaries changed after a conscious improvement in lifestyle habits. One to two weeks after the self-improvement of lifestyle habits, the hairpin loops sharpened or straightened. In conclusion, this study is the first report indicating a correlation between the structure of nailfold capillaries and lifestyle habits in a non-clinical population. The simple, inexpensive, and noninvasive method using nailfold microscopy can be employed for routine health checkups everywhere even at a bedside.
Psychometric properties of the Arabic version of Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale in a sample of Lebanese women
Authors: Bizri Maya , Ibrahim Nour , Beyrouthy Christine , Yamout Dahlia , Tamim Hani , Abiad Jude , Ghazeeri Ghina
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Resilience is defined as the ability to face adversities with positive outcomes. Various scales have been utilized, including 25-item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC), to evaluate resilience among populations. Resilience research is scarce, particularly in Lebanon as no such scales have been validated. Thus, in the present work, we aimed to assess the psychometric properties of the Arabic version of CD-RISC.

Patients and methods

The study was conducted at the Women’s Health Center at the American University of Beirut Medical Center among Lebanese women presenting to the obstetrics and gynecology clinics. Internal validity of the Arabic CD-RISC was examined. Pearson’s correlation coefficients between the scores of the Arabic version of CD-RISC and the other related constructs (Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Dispositional Hope Scale, Life Orientation Test, and Positive and Negative Affect Schedule) were assessed to evaluate its divergent and convergent validity. We collected responses from a total of 63 Lebanese women.

Results

The studied scale displayed a high internal consistency. Adequate correlation coefficients were manifested by the significant positive moderate to strong and negative moderate correlations between the Arabic CD-RISC and the other related constructs.

Conclusion

This is the first study to validate the Arabic version of the CD-RISC in a sample of Lebanese women. The findings of this study provide evidence that the Arabic version of CD-RISC is a reliable and valid tool for the evaluation of resilience among Lebanese women.
Genome skimming approach reveals the gene arrangements in the chloroplast genomes of the highly endangered Crocus L. species: Crocus istanbulensis (B.Mathew) Rukšāns
Authors: Cay Selahattin Baris , Cinar Yusuf Ulas , Kuralay Selim Can , Inal Behcet , Zararsiz Gokmen , Ciftci Almila , Mollman Rachel , Obut Onur , Eldem Vahap , Bakir Yakup , Erol Osman
Published: June 2022

Crocus istanbulensis (B.Mathew) Rukšāns is one of the most endangered Crocus species in the world and has an extremely limited distribution range in Istanbul. Our recent field work indicates that no more than one hundred individuals remain in the wild. In the present study, we used genome skimming to determine the complete chloroplast (cp) genome sequences of six C. istanbulensis individuals collected from the locus classicus. The cp genome of C. istanbulensis has 151,199 base pairs (bp), with a large single-copy (LSC) (81,197 bp), small single copy (SSC) (17,524 bp) and two inverted repeat (IR) regions of 26,236 bp each. The cp genome contains 132 genes, of which 86 are protein-coding (PCGs), 8 are rRNA and 38 are tRNA genes. Most of the repeats are found in intergenic spacers of Crocus species. Mononucleotide repeats were most abundant, accounting for over 80% of total repeats. The cp genome contained four palindrome repeats and one forward repeat. Comparative analyses among other Iridaceae species identified one inversion in the terminal positions of LSC region and three different gene (psbA, rps3 and rpl22) arrangements in C. istanbulensis that were not reported previously. To measure selective pressure in the exons of chloroplast coding sequences, we performed a sequence analysis of plastome-encoded genes. A total of seven genes (accD, rpoC2, psbK, rps12, ccsA, clpP and ycf2) were detected under positive selection in the cp genome. Alignment-free sequence comparison showed an extremely low sequence diversity across naturally occurring C. istanbulensis specimens. All six sequenced individuals shared the same cp haplotype. In summary, this study will aid further research on the molecular evolution and development of ex situ conservation strategies of C. istanbulensis.
Strategic complements: Poverty-targeted subsidy programs show additive benefits on household toilet purchases in rural Cambodia when coupled with sanitation marketing
Authors: Hoo Yi Rong , Joseph George , Rivera Rafael , Smets Susanna , Nguyen Hanh , Ljung Per , Um Sreymom , Davis Georgia , Albert Jeff
Published: June 2022

While poverty-targeted subsidies have shown promise as a means of reducing financial constraints on low-income populations to invest in new latrines, concerns have been raised about whether they may reduce demand for new latrines among non-eligible, non-poor populations, especially in geographically limited or closed markets. Using quasi experimental methods, we investigate the interaction effects of the “CHOBA” subsidy, a partial poverty-targeted monetary incentive to build a toilet, and a sanitation marketing program (SanMark) on new latrine uptake among households from different income segments in 110 rural villages across six Cambodian provinces. These programs were implemented either jointly with or independently. Overall, we find strong complementarity of the CHOBA subsidy with SanMark where the coupled implementation of the programs increased latrine uptake across all households as compared to exclusive deployment of the programs independently. Additionally, the CHOBA subsidy alone resulted in higher gains among the poor compared to SanMark suggesting that financial constraint is indeed a significant demand barrier for new latrines. The presence of the poverty-targeted subsidies did not reduce demand for new latrine purchases among ineligible households. Instead, we find some evidence for a positive spillover effect of subsidies on uptake of latrines among ineligible households in villages where both programs were implemented indicating that the presence of sanitation subsidies and the decision to purchase latrines among non-beneficiaries can be viewed as complements. We employ multivariate logistic regressions as well as further robustness checks to estimate the effects of the different interventions, with qualitatively consistent results.
An Expedient Synthesis of 2-Aryl-substituted 2,3-Dihydroquinazolin-4(1H)-ones in Low Transition Temperature Mixture (LTTM) containing SnCl2 and L-Proline
Authors: Desai V.M. , Birajdar A.T. , Patil S.P. , Kupwade R.V. , Deshmukh M.B. , Patil S.S.
Published: June 2022

2,3-Dihydroquinazolin-4(1H)-ones were synthesized in excellent yield in a prepared low transition temperature mixture (LTTM) containing SnCl2 and L-proline using either direct one-pot two-component cyclocondensation of anthranilamide and aldehydes or one-pot three-component cyclocondensation of isatoic anhydride, ammonium acetate and aldehydes. The prepared LTTM is a green solvent, inexpensive, non-toxic and serves a dual function as reusable catalyst and solvent with excellent reaction endorsing medium. The current protocol has several advantages including an easy work up, shorter reaction time, high yield with a higher atom economy and maximum reaction efficiency with excellent green chemistry metrics.
Comparison of the Properties of Biodiesel-Bioethanol-Diesel Blended Fuel
Authors: Miyuranga K.A. Viraj , De Silva S.J. , Arachchige Udara S.P.R. , Jayasinghe R.A. , Weerasekara N.A.
Published: June 2022

Energy production relies on finite fossil fuels and is usually regarded as the primary source of hazardous
emissions and global warming. As a result, much attention has been dedicated to biofuel as a fuel for
engine alternatives. Biofuel is now primarily utilized in blends with fossil diesel. As a result, this
study was focused on adding bioethanol and biodiesel to fossil diesel. Biodiesel was manufactured by
transesterification from waste cooking oil, while bioethanol was made through banana fermentation.
The physical properties such as density, kinematic viscosity, flashpoint, and cetane index of fossil
diesel-biodiesel-bioethanol blends were compared with fossil diesel fuel in laboratory experiments.
When added, bioethanol was found to degrade the physical properties of blended fuels substantially.
The substitution of bioethanol for fossil diesel resulted in a significant reduction of hazardous emissions.
The assessment of flue gas emissions indicated a considerable reduction in CO2, CO, hydrocarbon
(HC) and NOx emissions.
Design and Synthesis of Chromenone-Benzimidazole/Bezoxazole-
1,2,3-triazole Hybrids and their Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Mattela Kutumbarao , Gutam Madhu , Konda Santosh Kumar , Vadiyala Naveen Reddy , Yerrabelli Jayaprakash Rao , Chitneni Prasad Rao
Published: June 2022

A novel series of chromenone-benzimidazole/bezoxazole-1,2,3-triazole hybrids have been designed
and synthesized using 4-hydroxy-chromenone. The 4-hydroxychromenone was used to produce terminal
alkynated chromenone, which in turn reacted with different benzimidazole and benzoxazole aryl azides
using Click reaction condition to afford respective title compounds in good yields. All the synthesized
1,2,3-triazole derivatives were screened for their in vitro antimicrobial activity against four bacterial
and two fungal strains, among them compounds 3a, 3f and 3j were showed potent antimicrobial
activity.
Macroeconomic effects of artificial intelligence on emerging economies: Insights from Bangladesh
Authors: Sarker Provash Kumer
Published: June 2022

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to increase economic growth substantially across the world. This paper explores the predicted potentials of AI from macroeconomic perspectives, employing theoretical analysis and contextualizing Bangladesh. The study employs time series data to examine the effects of AI on the labor market and productivity. The findings indicate that Bangladesh was yet to realize the expected economic merits though the integrated number of AI-induced industry robots has been insignificant. For AI to be effective in Bangladesh, the country shall adopt more AI robots across the various sectors, mainly manufacturing and service. Besides, the country may complement the human labor force with AI labor instead of relying on only one as a source of labor.
Jagdish Gundara: broadening the field of intercultural studies at the Institute of Education (London)
Authors: Sharma Namrata
Published: June 2022

This article discusses three (among many) contributions made by Jagdish S. Gundara (1938–2016) to the IOE (Institute of Education), UCL’s Faculty of Education and Society (University College London, UK). First, in his capacity as a professor and UNESCO Chair, and as the director of the International Centre for Intercultural Education since its inception in 1979, Gundara was instrumental in making the IOE a national and global space for discussions related to topics such as multiculturalism and diversity in education. Second, Gundara’s own research and scholarly work made the IOE an attractive place for colleagues and students interested in broadening the field of intercultural studies. Finally, the article considers Gundara’s third contribution to the IOE: those who knew him closely would agree that his friendly disposition has enhanced the culture of the institution as a vibrant community of local-global scholars. This article reflects on such aspects of Gundara’s work and legacy. In doing so it attempts to provide a glimpse into his personal and professional journeys, and the three phases of his intercultural experiences – his childhood in Nairobi, Kenya, as the son of immigrants from India; his studies at universities across North America and the UK; and, finally, his career as an educator at the IOE in London.
A review on environmental friendly cutting fluids and coolant delivery techniques in grinding
Authors: Bag Sayan , Saha Avash Kumar
Published: June 2022

Grinding is a very high-speed machining process, specifically, it is complex and often fails to achieve the accuracy, coolants are necessary for grinding to achieve the desired production rates. Coolant disposal is a serious issue since it poses a risk to the environment and land pollution. To reduce the friction and of frictional heating during grinding, suitable coolants and lubrication systems should be used, therefore, many approaches to eco-friendly coolant delivery techniques are been illustrated. Continuous long-term scientific research is needed toward green machining. “Go green, think green, and act green” statement should be followed in the industry during production and manufacturing. This literature survey was needed because it highlights previous and present research work on eco-friendly fluid delivery techniques, also the study explained how important this method will play in considering the future environment and workers’ health.
Role of Transparent Nature Conducting Substrate on Physical, Chemical and Optical Properties of Electrochemically Grown CdSe and CdSe: Fe Thin Films
Authors: Thanikaikarasan S. , Perumal R. , Kanimozhi R. , Saravannan M. , Suja Ponmini P. S.
Published: June 2022

Semiconductors of II–VI group considered as interesting candidate for many researchers owing to its wide variety of applications in industries such as solar cells, solar selective coatings and optoelectronic devices. Chalcogenides of Cadmium received much attention due to its important structural feature, film composition, electronic and optical properties. The technique of low cost, low temperature electrochemical deposition has been employed to prepare Cadmium Selenide and Iron incorporated Cadmium Selenide thin films on transparent nature conducting substrates. The technique of X-ray diffraction has been used to identify crystalline nature and structural features of the deposited films. The method of Energy dispersive X-ray analysis has been used to find out the stoichiometric nature of the deposited films. The parameters viz., crystallite size, strain, dislocation density are estimated for the deposited films. The method of Ultraviolet-Visible spectroscopic measurements has been carried out to determine the optical properties of the deposited films. The deposited films found to exhibit band gap value in the range between 1.67 and 1.74 eV and the value of optical parameters refractive index and extinction coefficient, were estimated.
Influence of Halogens on the Growth Aspects of Allylthiourea Cadmium Complex Nonlinear Optical Single Crystals
Authors: Perumal R. , Thanikaikarasan S. , Saravannan M. , Kanimozhi R. , Sudharthini S.
Published: June 2022

Allylthiourea complex crystals is an organometallic complex, a new nonlinear optical materials with high second harmonic generation effect. Tri-allylthiourea cadmium chloride and Tri-allylthiourea cadmium bromide are the promising nonlinear optical crystals belonging to this family. Both the crystals have been grown from an aqueous solution by slow cooling technique. The solubility and growth optimization of the grown crystals in terms of pH were analyzed and the influence of the different halogen atoms on the properties of as grown single crystals was studied by conducting various characterization techniques. Powder X-ray diffraction studies revealed that both the crystals are trigonal crystal structure with R3C space group. The spectroscopic properties were investigated by recording the Fourier Transform Infra Red and UV-Visible-NIR spectroscopy. Spectrocopic study confirmed the coordination of metal and red shift of the grown crystal. Nonlinear behavior of the as grown crystals was identified by Kurtz powder technique. Thermal and electrical properties of the as grown crystals were also analyzed by thermogravimetric and dielectric studies. Influence of the halogens on the growth as well as the properties were studied.
Pitting Corrosion and Mechanical Properties of Direct Current and Pulsed Reverse Current Electrodeposited Nickel-Tungsten Coatings
Authors: Dadvand M. , Savadogo O.
Published: June 2022

The electrochemical corrosion and mechanical properties of direct current and pulsed reverse current electrodeposited nickel and nickel-tungsten were investigated by using cyclic polarization measurement and nano-indentation techniques. Direct and pulsed reverse current electrodeposited nickel-tungsten coatings revealed a significant higher resistance to pitting corrosion when compared to direct and pulsed reverse current deposited nickel. Furthermore, pulsed reverse current electrodeposited nickel-tungsten displayed the most noble corrosion potential and higher corrosion resistance compared to direct current electrodeposited nickel-tungsten. This was attributed to the more nano- crystalline structure of the pulsed-reverse current deposited coatings when compared to that of the direct current electrodeposited nickel-tungsten. The average modulus for both direct and pulsed reverse current deposited nickel-tungsten were found to be similar but the average hardness of direct current deposited nickel-tungsten was slightly higher than that of pulsed reverse current deposited nickel-tungsten. This was attributed to the higher tungsten content (35 wt.%) in the direct current deposited nickel-tungsten coating compared to that (25 wt.%) in the pulsed reverse current deposited nickel-tungsten and is supported by our energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy results.
An Intelligent Cooling System Based on Predictive Time Domain Algorithm with Thermoelectric Coolers for Wind Turbines
Authors: Vigneshwaran P. , Padmavathi N. , Nirmala G. , Sowmiya A.
Published: June 2022

Development of Power Electronics devices (PED) made renewable energy generation of power more feasible than that of traditional power plant generation. In India, Tamil Nadu the major source of renewable generation is come from Wind generation. Due to PED, heat generated is the Major issues in wind power generation, which consequence in terrible combustion accidents and disasters. Cooling system such as compressor based cooling scheme or two phases cooling is provided in addition to natural air cooling. The major disadvantages of the scheme are their volume, requirement of large power supplies and frequent chance to catch fire. Currently, using Thermo-electric coolers (TEC) called Peltier modules to provide cooling in wind power plant. Only after the system has reached massive temperature levels can it excavates the heat. The proposed method using predictive time domain algorithm the cooling process initiated in prepone manner. As soon as heat go up the system will detected and switched on cooling in predictive manner which can avoid the system to reach the maximum temperature. By using IoT, the system can monitor the temperature level and make use of predictive cooling technology over the surfaces without any delay time.
Properties and Characteristic of Perovskite Type Ca1-xSrxMnO3
Authors: Guemache A. , Bouchelaghem A. , Drif M. , Kahoul F. , Hamzioui L.
Published: June 2022

Ca1-xSrxMnO3 (x = 0, 0.1, 0.2) nanoparticules were synthesized by the co- precipitation method. The structural analysis reveals the presence of Octahedral coordination of MnO4. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra of MnO4 show the occurrence of O-Mn-O vibrational mode at around 590 cm-1. The XRD indicates that the samples are Rhombohedral lattice. The differential and thermo gravimetric analysis, curve obtained from the composition x=0.1,it has distinct pure phase at 600°C. The study of electrochemical behavior was carried out by cyclic Voltammetry (CV) and impedance spectroscopy (EIS).Show that the apparent electrochemical activity improves by increasing the strontium concentration. This is due to the particle size effect of strontium.
A Bibliometric Analysis of Cyberbullying Research in Turkey
Authors: MANAP Abdullah
Published: June 2022

This study aims to analyze cyberbullying research in Turkey through bibliometric analysis. To this end, the study dealt with six research questions which included the most frequently used keywords and co-occurrences of these keywords, Turkey’s collaboration with other countries, the frequency distribution of articles and citations by year, the most cited articles, the most productive journals, and authors. The bibliometric data were limited to the Web of Science (WoS) database. The first search yielded a total of 3974 publications. However, excluding the publications which did not comply with the aim of the study resulted in 105 articles to be analyzed. The findings suggested that there were 268 keywords used at least once. The keywords occurring at least five times other than “cyberbullying” were “cyber victimization,” “adolescent,” “bullying,” “reliability,” “validity,” and “internet addiction.”. Turkey had at least one collaboration with 21 countries. The top five countries with at least two collaborations were England, the U.S.A., Australia, Hungary, Czech Republic, and Germany. The most productive year was 2021. The most cited article was published in 2010, and the most influential journal was "Education and Science.” It was also revealed that the fifteen most productive authors had 57 publications. Considering the increasing interaction among people in virtual environments, cyberbullying research which has a nearly quarter-century history, should take more attention from Turkish scholars. Additionally, a gap was observed in the literature regarding studies conducted on parents. Thus, further studies may attempt to fill this gap.
Reliability and Validity of Measuring Scale for Team-Work in Multicultural Setting at Tertiary Level
Authors: GÜNDÜZ Müge , DOĞAN Nuri
Published: June 2022

This study aims to evaluate the validity and the reliability of measurement of ‘Team-Work’ scale to understand the perception of international students’ collaboration with other students in a multicultural setting. The scale for this study adapted from a measurement tool, which initially designed to explore the impact of individuals’ intercultural communication competence on multicultural team performance in international organizations. Initial sampling group for was 350 university students however, 168 returned questionnaires provided sufficient data for the conclusion drawn for this research study: The scale of Team-Work was constructed with 18 items and the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to test the replicability and the accuracy of the scale and it was confirmed that the final structure of the scale including 18 items with one dimension. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient values for the subscales were considered to be high (i.e. flexibility: 0.842 and inflexibility: 0.802).
Changes in the Lives of Middle-Aged Adults and Their Educational Needs During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: AYDIN Dilek , KUTLUANA Özlem , ÇAKIR Ü. Deniz , ÜNAL Fatma
Published: June 2022

Various epidemics, throughout history, have affected societies socially, economically and psychologically by causing problems for humanity. COVID-19 epidemic, which started in Wuhan, China late in December, 2019 and still continues, has also caused millions of people in the world to get infected and a great number of people to lose their lives. Considering the pandemic process that we are experiencing, the purpose of this study is to identify changes in the lives of middle-aged adults and their educational needs during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this case study based on qualitative research design, 19 individuals who lived in different socio-economic regions of Turkey and participated in the study voluntarily, were interviewed. The data collected through a demographic information form, a semi-structured interview form and a story completion form developed by the researchers were analyzed through content analysis. As a result of the study, it was revealed that some values were realized more; negative psychological and economic impacts emerged; differences happened in hygiene, diet and social life behaviors; and that participants wanted to receive education on general health, COVID-19 pandemic and prevention.
The Remnants of Ancient Java as a Sign System in Bagelen Central Java
Authors: Wirasanti Niken
Published: June 2022

This research explored the cultural traces of the Ancient Mataram community in South Kedu, Bagelen region, Central Java. There areabundant archaeological data to study these traces – Hindu and Buddhist statues, lingga-yoni, lingga pathok, rings, lamps, and fiveinscriptions, namely the Watukura (902 AD, Kayu Ara Hiwang (911 AD), Sipater (circa 900 AD), Ayam Têas (901 AD), and Pendem (881 AD). In addition, there are more than 26 archaeological sites in Bagelen region. Statues, lingga-yoni, lamps, and rings are correlated with the contents of the inscriptions, all of which show how the system and social structure of the residents worked and functioned in Bagelen region. These artifacts are a system of sign that describes the religious activities during the Rakai Watukura Dyah Balitung period of the Ancient Mataram. The research was aimed to obtain an overview of how material culture as a sign system is interpreted by the community. The research method used was a structural approach by analyzing signs and meanings of artifact data and inscriptions. The findings showed how the manifested culture in Bagelan region reflected a certain spirituality concept with local and cultural identification.
Urban Dealing with Pandemic: Comparative Responses on Spanish Flu and the Covid-19 Era in Indonesia
Authors: Sumantri Pulung , Muhajir Ahmad , Batubara Taslim
Published: June 2022

This article compares how the Indonesian, specifically the urban people respond to the pandemic during the history. In 1918, Indonesia, formerly known as the Dutch East Indies, witnessed a pandemic of the Spanish Flu that killed thousands of lives. A century later, Indonesia is once again experienced with the lethal Covid-19 pandemic. The emphasized responses are specific on countermeasures and vaccination programs during the Spanish Flu 1918 and Covid-19 pandemics. The primary source of this research is the archive of annual reports (Kolonial Verslag) Dutch East Indies government 1920 and a report from the Dutch East Indies Civil Health Service (Burgerlijken Geneeskujdigen Dienst), as well as supported by newspapers such as: Sin Po, Oetoesan Hindia, Pewarta Soerabaia, Tjhoen Tjhioe,Bataviaasch Nieuwsblad, and Andalas. This article also aims at understanding how the Indonesian people are handling pandemics, both the Spanish Flu and the Covid-19 pandemics. The action taken by the government in tackling the Spanish flu and Covid-19 pandemic in Indonesia is to issue regulations to reduce activities in the public domain. This regulation has proven successful in reducing the spread of the Spanish flu pandemic in the past and Covid-19 in the present. This research found that Indonesian urban in the past and today have similar points of view, the irrational views and rational views, this is proofed from the emergence of unique, local-rational, and uncontrollable news and rumours because of the amplification of news about the outbreak.  The difference is that in the past, religious responses were expressly confronted with the news but in the present, it is more moderate and open to cooperating with programs from the government. The spectrum from the news of the past outbreaks is not as large as that of the present. Mass media with information technology to social media are further expanding the spectrum from outbreak news to produce more powerful amplifications. It also affects the polarization of the masses that respond rationally and irrationally to the outbreak.
Pemanfaatan Gas Buang Turbin Gas Siklus Terbuka Dengan Sistem Organic Rankine Cycle
Authors: Hutapea Tua Harolt , Windarta Jaka
Published: June 2022

Gas buang Turbin Gas Siklus Terbuka (PLTG) yang masih bersuhu tinggi merupakan suatu pemborosan energi sehingga diperlukan usaha untuk memanfaatkannya karena energi adalah sumber daya yang berharga dan setiap panas buang yang berasal dari pembangkit listrik siklus terbuka, mesin-mesin atau industri harus menggunakannya secara efisien dan efektif. ORegenTM adalah siklus Rankine Organik GE yaitu suatu sistem yang didesain untuk memanfaatkan energi panas gas buang dari Turbin Gas atau dari sumber-sumber panas buangan lainnya. Sistem ORegen GE merupakan siklus panas lanjut Termodinamika dengan menggunakan fluida kerja cyclo pentane yang memanfaatkan panas buang dari Turbin Gas dan kemudian mengkonversikannya menjadi ekstra listrik sehingga 16 MW tanpa menggunakan bahan bakar ataupun air dan tidak menghasilkan tambahan emisi-emisi CO2 atau NOx. Dari beberapa tipe Turbin Gas GE dalam studi ini diperoleh efisiensi tertinggi keseluruhan dari sistem yaitu sebesar 51,5% dengan efisiensi Turbin Gas sebesar 41,1% yang diperoleh oleh Turbin Gas PGT25+ G4 pada beban 34 MW dan mendapatkan ekstra listrik dari ORegen sebesar 8,9 MW.
Analisis Potensi Hidrogen Air Laut di Banyuwangi Melalui Proses Elektrolisis Sebagai Energi Terbarukan
Authors: Firdaus Adinda Rahma Huda , Sudarti Sudarti
Published: June 2022

Ketersediaan air di dunia yang sangat melimpah dapat menjadi salah satu solusi dari berkurangnya bahan bakar fosil yang ada, untuk itu pemanfatan energi alternatif sekarang sedang digalakkan untuk menggantikan ketergantungan terhadap energi fosil seperti batu bara yang digunakan sebagai bahan bakar pada pembangkit listrik. Dalam pemanfaatan air laut khususnya di Banyuwangi, dengan potensi hydrogen yang tersedia dapat menjadi sumber energi terbarukan dengan melalui proses elektrolisis. Hidrogen merupakan salah satu energi terbarukan yang mempunyai banyak kelebihan dibanding dengan energi terbarukan lainnya. Salah satu metode yang menjanjikan untuk menghasilkan gas hidrogen adalah dengan metode elektrolisis air laut yang sumbernya tidak terbatas. Elektrolisis air adalah peristiwa penguraian senyawa air (H₂O) menjadi gas gas hidrogen (H₂) dan oksigen (O₂) dengan menggunakan arus listrik yang melalui air tersebut. Artikel ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis potensi hydrogen air laut di daerah Banyuwangi, dengan melalui proses elektrolisis yang nantinya diharapkan dapat membantu pengembangan sumber energi terbarukan yang ada di Banyuwangi.
Ideology Movements of Trisakti Trilogy: Remending Maritime Archipelagic as a Concept of Indonesian Unity in the Threat of Democracy and Sovereignty Crisis
Authors: Habibullah Luthfi , Haryono Bagus , Demartoto Argyo
Published: June 2022

Indonesia has great potential in managing its maritime strength. Historical traces have recorded that Nusantara kingdoms succeeded in showing their strength to build geopolitical and global trade routes. Having a geographical structure makes Indonesia pay great attention to the sea. Archipelagic state is not merely interpreted as an archipelagic concept, but it is a state that connects islands to and from a sovereign territory by presenting a national maritime power. Indonesia is expected to be a successor to the maritime nation considered in Southeast Asia and also to play its role in the global geopolitical strategy. National unity must be followed by strong geographical entity. The emergence of the Juanda Declaration as a diplomacy order was to defend the principles of the sovereign island nation of Indonesia. The sea is no longer defined as a separator, but a link and unifying sovereignty. State sovereignty become the foundation of the Trisakti trilogy. Fully sovereign in political, self-sufficient in economic and conforming personality in cultural values are the basis of the foundation. It rejects all forms of new-style imperialism, capitalism and foreign dictation of life value system.
Fishermen Empowerment Strategy as a Solution in the Security Management Crisis in the North Natuna Sea
Authors: Juanita Merisa Dwi , Setiani Masaji Faiz Dani Agus
Published: June 2022

Indonesia faces tremendous pressure in dealing with the crisis in the North Natuna Sea with China, which often violates Indonesia's EEZ in the North Natuna Sea. The frequency of crises in the North Natuna Sea is increasingly frequent. It requires an effective strategy without damaging diplomatic relations, and local Natuna fishers immediately feel the benefits. Diplomatic efforts carried out since 1994 and military policies have no significant effect in preventing China's aggressiveness. Up until now, Chinese fishing vessels and the Chinese Coast Guard are still carrying out provocative actions by violating Indonesia's IUU Fishing and EEZ by adhering to the Nine-Dash Line principle, which has disrupted maritime security and has harmed Indonesia for not respecting the 1982 UNCLOS. Moreover, Jakarta's response to that event sent fishing boats from Pantura Java to take fish in the Natuna area, making it worse for local Natuna fishers. Thus act sparked a conflict, which meant Natuna fishers faced two threats from foreign parties and conflicts with Pantura Java fishers. The researcher aims to analyze the strategies that the Government of Indonesia has carried out in dealing with the crisis in the North Natuna Sea with China by using qualitative methods and triangulation analysis techniques with the concept of national interest. The researcher analyzed how the strategy used by the Indonesian Government did not have a significant impact on reducing China's aggressiveness and conflicts with Pantura Java fishers. The study results indicate that additional strategies are needed to encourage the effectiveness of the expected results by prioritizing local Natuna fishermen as part of the solution, with maximum coordination between the Indonesian Navy, BAKAMLA (Badan Keamanan Laut/ Indonesian Maritime Security Agency), and the Natuna Fisherman Community. Researchers suggest that the central Government coordinates with stakeholders to form a “Sovereignty Patrol Fisherman Team” accompanied by Bakamla as a concrete action to safeguard the sovereignty and sovereign rights of professional fishers to facilitate up-to-date and surviving fishing vessels in the North Natuna Sea as a form of state defence and empowerment of local Natuna fishers.
Integrative Efforts in Handling Plastic Pollution in Jakarta Bay: Social Capital and Movements
Authors: Nabillah Khurin
Published: June 2022

Jakarta Bay is the storefront for maritime activities in Indonesia. Littering in Jakarta Bay is a significant problem in the development of Jakarta. Although Jakarta has a large social capital, the actualisation of social capital in solving the waste problem in Jakarta Bay is still not widely known. This study analyses the strategy for implementing social capital for the people of Jakarta in handling plastic waste in Jakarta Bay from the perspective of maritime environmental security. The study used a descriptive qualitative method. Data were collected through observation, interviews and literature studies. Interviews were conducted with the government representatives, seamen and other relevant stakeholders. The results show that the impact of plastic waste in Jakarta Bay has disrupted shipping safety; the implementation of social capital for handling plastic waste in Jakarta Bay is carried out through the Waste Bank, Citizen Relations Management, Joint Responsibility Garbage and Jakarta Recycle Center (Sampah Tanggung Jawab Bersama /Samtama) and Jakarta Recycle programs Center. In handling waste at sea, the Jakarta Government cannot work alone; it needs to collaborate with the surrounding governments, including the governments of Bekasi, Tangerang and Banten Province. The achievement of increasing the participation of social capital and business actors actively reducing environmentally friendly waste and transforming waste into an economical source. Several ways are undertaken, including reducing source waste, optimising the Bantargebang TPST and building an Intermediate Treatment Facility.
Analysing the Presence of Enslaved Black People in Ancient Java Society
Authors: Maziyah Siti
Published: June 2022

Since the 7th century, Java has been one of the trading centres of Southeast Asia. It is recorded in an inscription in Java which contains several terms that indicate the presence of foreigners in old Javanese society, including enslaved Black people. The research questions posed include: Who are they? How did they get to Java? What was their role in Javanese society? The data used for this research are inscriptions, Chinese news sources, and contemporary literary texts. Its information was analysed and classified to determine its origin and presence in Java. The results showed that there were several enslaved Black people in Java. Based on the term used to describe them, they came from East Africa and Papua. Implicitly, the brief information shows that the existence of enslaved Black people in Java was linked to the trade conducted by Persians and people from East Indonesia. It shows that work in Java from the 7th century AD to the 15th century AD was performed with various nations. The king used the existence of enslaved Black people in Java as a way to gain spiritual "strength" from their skin colour, which was different from the Javanese society. Its belief continued until the time of the Islamic Mataram Kingdom with the presence of the Palawija courtiers, a group of disabled people who were considered a sign of the king's greatness.
Software Cracking and Degrees of Software Protection
Authors: Chou Chung-Hui
Published: June 2022

Progress of hardware technologies and diffusion of computer knowledge enable consumers to crack software if they decide to use software illegally. This paper constructs a software market in which consumers are horizontally differentiated in accordance with social norms of copyright protection to examine the monopolistic producer’s software protection behaviors with considering partial compatibility between genuine and cracked software as well as utility loss from using cracked software. Our research presents the following results. First, when network externalities are weak, the monopolist would set a degree of protection which induces existence of software cracking to enhance consumers’ willingness to pay for genuine software by improving network benefits. Conversely, if network externalities are sufficiently strong, then software producer would set a degree of protection which stop software cracking completely. This implies that stopping software cracking is not possible without network effects. Second, if utility loss from using cracked software is severe (mild), then strengthening (weakening) network externalities or lowering (raising) compatibility may reduce the number of consumers using cracked software and increase software producer’s profits consequently. Finally, we show that the monopolistic producer tends to over-protect software when genuine and cracked software are highly compatible or network externalities are relatively weak which results in inadequate consumers using cracked software for social optimum.
Effect of CYP2C9, PTGS-1 and PTGS-2 gene polymorphisms on the efficiency and safety of postoperative analgesia with ketoprofen
Authors: Sychev Dmitry A. , Morozova Tatiana E. , Shatskiy Dmitry A. , Shikh Nadezhda V. , Shikh Evgeniya V. , Andrushchyshina Tatiana B. , Lukina Maria V. , Kachanova Anastasia A. , Sozaeva Zhannet A. , Abdullaev Sherzod P. , Denisenko Natalia P. , Ryzhikova Kristina A.
Published: June 2022

Objectives

Patients undergoing cardiac surgery develop post-sternotomy pain syndrome. The aim of this study was evaluation of the influence of CYP2C9, PTGS-1 and PTGS-2 genes polymorphisms on the efficacy and safety of postoperative analgesia with ketoprofen in patients with coronary artery disease after cardiac surgery.

Methods

The study included 90 patients undergoing cardiac surgery. A real-time polymerase chain reaction was used for the detection of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP). Pain intensity was measured by the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS). Dyspeptic symptoms were evaluated using the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS). Acute kidney injury (AKI) was determined by Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes criteria.

Results

Pain intensity by the NRS score was significantly higher in patients with CYP2C9*3 АA genotype compared to АC genotype: 7 [1,10] and 6 [2,7] (p=0.003); 7 [1,10] and 6 [2,7] (p=0.04); 6 [0; 10] and 5 [2,6] (p=0.04); 5 [0; 8] and 3 [0; 8] (p=0.02), on days 1, 2, 3 and 5 in the postoperative period, respectively. GSRS score was higher in patients with CYP2C9*2 CT genotype compared to CС genotype: 19 [15; 42] and 18 [15,36] (p=0.04), respectively. There were no significant differences in the pain intensity, dyspepsia severity and AKI frequency in patients with homozygous and heterozygous genotypes for PTGS-1 rs10306135, PTGS-1 rs12353214, PTGS-2 rs20417.

Conclusions

CYP2C9*3 and CYP2C9*2 gene polymorphisms may affect efficacy and safety of postoperative analgesia with ketoprofen in patients with coronary artery disease after cardiac surgery.
Cell wall pore structures of bamboo evaluated using gas adsorption methods
Authors: Cao Mengdan , Ren Wenting , Zhu Jiawei , Wang Hankun , Guo Juan , Zhang Xuexia , Yu Yan
Published: June 2022

The efficient conversion of bamboo biomass into biofuel and biomaterials as well as other chemical treatments are strongly related to the porosity of its cell wall. The present work characterizes the micropore and mesopore structure in the cell walls of six bamboo species using both CO2 and N2 adsorption methods. For comparison, two plantation wood species were also tested. As a whole, the tested bamboo species showed lower cell wall porosity (2.6%–3.8%) than wood species (4.0%–5.1%), indicating a more compact cell wall structure for bamboo than wood. Furthermore, the cell wall pore structure and porosity were shown to be tissue-specific, taking Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys eduli) for example, the parenchyma cells exhibited higher pore volume and porosity compared to the fibers. The obtained results provided additional explanations for the higher biomass recalcitrance of bamboo and bamboo fibers as compared to wood and parenchyma cells, with respect to cell wall pore structure.