bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Adaptive Personalization Theory of Learning: Revolutionizing Education with AI
Authors: Ejjami Rachid
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize personalized learning by developing and empirically evaluating the Adaptive Personalization Theory of Learning (APT) model. The APT paradigm uses AI-powered personalized learning algorithms, real-time adaptive assessments, learner engagement strategies, cognitive scaffolding, and ethical safeguards to provide flexible, personalized learning experiences. The study confirms the model's constructs through qualitative methods such as case studies, interviews, and classroom observations. It illustrates how AI improves learning outcomes by continuously tailoring content and evaluations to individual learner needs. The findings show that AI-powered systems increase learner motivation, engagement, and knowledge retention while providing scalable solutions for various educational scenarios. However, the study also identifies ethical concerns, such as potential biases in AI algorithms, emphasizing the significance of establishing transparent, fair systems. Limitations include the scope of the implementation and the necessity for additional quantitative study. The paper continues by identifying areas for further research, emphasizing long-term impacts, ethical frameworks, and practical implementation tactics, and establishing the APT model as a significant contribution to AI in education.
Pengaruh Faktor Minat Nasabah Gadai Syariah dengn Gadai Konvensional pada PT. Pegadaian di Kota Mataram
Authors: Maulana Ibahim  , Fathurrahman  , M. Habibullah Aminy
Published: November 2024

Syariah and conventional pawnshops are non-bank financial services and are part of BUMN. People's interest in using pawnshop services is usually because they do not meet the requirements for loans from national or regional banks. People prefer to go to PT. Pawnshops are both syariah and conventional because they are considered faster in service, the disbursement process is fast and easy to reach by the public. This research uses a qualitative method with a case study approach. The research was conducted at Syariah Pawnshop Branches and Conventional Pawnshops in the Mataram City Area. The research sample was determined by purposive sampling and data collection by observation, interviews and documentation. Next, a data validity test was carried out.
The results of this research show that people are more inclined to pawnshops because they are easier to reach, there are not many requirements, relatively fast service and fast disbursement of funds. Apart from that, products from syariah pawnshops prioritize syariah principles in accordance with Islamic teachings. Conventional pawnshops offer low interest promotions, longer tenors and better service quality.
The researcher hopes that this research will be continued by future researchers as input for syariah and conventional pawnshops to improve the quality of services and financial service products that can compete with other financial service institutions.
Pengaruh Brand Attitude Dan Karakteristik Sosiodemografi Terhadap Minat Pemanfaatan Kembali Pelayanan Pada Pasien Rawat Inap Di Rumah Sakit Umum Daerah Labuang Baji Tahun 2023
Authors: Fadillah Almaida , Mangindara  , Ngkolu Nurmulia Wunaini , Nuryadin Afriyana Amelia
Published: November 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh brand attitude dan karakteristik sosiodemografi terhadap minat pemanfaatan kembali pelayanan pada pasien rawat inap di RSUD Labuang Baji Makassar tahun 2023. Jenis penelitian yang digunakan adalah penelitian kuantitatif dengan desain cross sectional study. Populasi dalam penelitian ini sebanyak 512 pasien, kemudian diperoleh sampel dengan menggunakan rumus slovin yaitu sebanyak 225 pasien dan teknik pengambilan sampel yaitu menggunakan accidental sampling. Analisis data digunakan adalah univariat, bivariat dengan uji chi-square dan analisis multivariat dengan uji regresi logistik. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa terdapat pengaruh kognitif (p=0,006), afektif (p=0,049), konatif p=0,047), evaluatif (p=0,044), perilaku (0,044) terhadap minat pemanfaatan kembali pelayanan. Sedangkan jenis kelamin (0,396) dan tingkat pendidikan (0,697) tidak berpengaruh terhadap minat pemanfaatan kembali pelayanan. Kemudian variabel yang paling berpengaruh terhadap minat pemanfaatan  kembali pelayanan adalah kognitif (pengetahuan). Diharapkan kepada pihak rumah sakit agar meningkatkan pelayanan yang diberikan kepada pasien sehingga dapat mempertahankan dan meningkatkan jumlah kunjungan ulang pasien
Work Life Balance Dan Beban Kerja Terhadap Turnover Intention Pada Perawat Di Instalasi Rawat Inap Di Rumah Sakit Umum Daerah Haji Makassar
Authors: Dian Sri , Pratiwi Reski Dewi , Wahyudi Tri
Published: November 2024

Turnover intention merupakan sebuah masalah serius dan tidak bisa dianggap mudah dalam suatu rumah sakit. Jika suatu rumah sakit sering terjadi turnover maka akan dapat mempengaruhi stabilitas dan kualitas pelayanan. Salah satu rumah sakit yang mengalami masalah ini yaitu RSUD Haji Makassar karena banyaknya perawat yang setiap tahunnya mengalami angka turnover yang tidak stabil. Untuk menganalisis apakah ada pengaruh work-life balance dan beban kerja terhadap turnover intention pada perawat di instalasi rawat inap di rumah sakit umum daerah haji makassar. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah kuantitatif pendekatan Cross sectional study. Sampel dalam penelitian ini yaitu 133 perawat di instalasi rawat inap di rumah sakit umum daerah haji makassar, dengan menggunakan teknik total sampling. Penelitian ini menggunakan analisi chi-square dan analisis regresi linear berganda dengan bantuan SPSS. Hasil dan kesimpulan, penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa terdapat pengaruh worklife balance terhadap turnover intention (p= 0,002), terdapat pengaruh beban kerja terhadap turnover intention (p =0,003), kemudian hasil uji F di peroleh (p= 0,000) sehingga dapat disimpulkan bahwa terdapat pengaruh simultan antara worklife balance dan beban kerja terhadap turnover intention pada perawat di instalasi rawat inap di RSUD Haji makassar. Saran, yaitu perawat di instalasi rawat inap dapat mempertahankan dan meningkatkan keseimbangan kehidupan kerjanya, selain itu juga peneliti menyarankan kepada pihak RSUD Haji makassar agar selalu memperhatikan beban kerja yang seimbang dan kenyamanan perawat dalam bekerja.
Effect of a Mixture of Gasoline and Ethanol in a Direct Injection System Engine on Power and Specific Fuel Consumption
Authors: Fina Rizqiani  , Irawan Bambang
Published: November 2024

The use of fossil fuels as the main fuel for vehicles is one of the problems in the automotive industry, considering that supplies are increasingly running low. The use of renewable fuel is an alternative in dealing with this problem, one of which is the use of ethanol as a gasoline fuel mixture. Ethanol which can be obtained from plants is more promising in terms of energy sustainability, and the high octane value of ethanol allows for increased combustion efficiency and can produce optimal engine power. This research identifies the influence of gasoline-ethanol mixture and engine speed on power and specific fuel consumption in direct injection engines. The research was carried out by testing the power of an electric generator driven by a 1-cylinder direct injection engine, as well as calculating fuel consumption while the engine was operating. The results of this research show that the E10 produces the best performance at low and medium revs with the highest power of 0.119 kW and 0.490 kW, while the E5 is superior at high revs with a power of 0.644 kW. In terms of fuel efficiency, E15 has the lowest SFC at low speed (3.83 L/kWh), E10 at medium speed (0.96 L/kWh), and E5 at high speed (0.77 L/kWh). E20 shows the lowest efficiency in all runs. The results of this research can be used to design direct injection engines with mixed fuels consisting of gasoline, ethanol and diesel
Effect of Using Epoxy As a Substitute For Hydroxyl-Terminated Polybutadiene (HTPB) on Manufacturing Solid Propellants
Authors: Maryono Maryono , Ali Muhammad , Lazuardi Lazuardi
Published: November 2024

The solid propellant consists of ammonium perchlorate (AP)/Hydroxyl- Terminated Polybutadiene (HTPB) composite material. In this research, innovation was carried out using epoxy as a substitute for HTPB. The analysis carried out in this research includes analysis of fuel propagation speed, combustion temperature, exit pressure, gas speed, and thrust force. Based on the results of research that has been carried out, increasing the addition of epoxy results in a decrease in combustion speed, combustion temperature, exit pressure, and combustion gas speed so that the resulting thrust force decreases. The most optimum composition in this research was composition A using 46% Ammonium Perchlorate, 36% Aluminum, and 18% Epoxy. The resulting thrust force on composition A is 750.5771 N. The difference in the thrust force results between HTPB and composition A is 1.8731 N. This proves that epoxy can be used as a substitute for HTPB.
Effect of Coconut Shell-Based Active Carbon Adsorbent on Motorcycle Exhaust Gas Emissions
Authors: Putra Gitama Nahindi , Hidayat Najmul , Pebrianti Dwi
Published: November 2024

This study focused on the utilization of active carbon derived from coconut shells as an adsorbent to reduce exhaust gas emissions in motorcycles. The research aimed to compare the exhaust emissions before and after installing active carbon in the muffler and to analyze its effect on the levels of CO, HC, and CO2 at different engine speeds. A laboratory experiment was conducted with varying masses of active carbon, and emission data were collected and analyzed using two-way ANOVA. The results demonstrated that with the use of 200 grams of active carbon, the CO emission decreased by 12.06%, HC by 16.96%, and CO2 by 9.17%. These reductions are attributed to the strong adsorptive properties of active carbon, which facilitated the physical and chemical separation of harmful gases. The study concluded that active carbon significantly reduces exhaust emissions, providing a practical solution for improving air quality in motorcycles. The findings offer an effective method for emission control that could be applied under various operating conditions, making it suitable for widespread implementation in emission-reduction systems for small engines.
Characterization of the Bioenergy Potential of Corncob and Rice Husk mixtures in Biochar Briquettes
Authors: Asrori Asrori , Alfarisyi Mirza Fathus Syifa , Zainuri Ach. Muhib , Naryono Eko
Published: November 2024

Briquettes are a form of solid fuel that is produced using waste from the agricultural, industrial and household sectors. For example, briquettes can be produced from biomass waste such as rice straw and corn cobs, which are potential resources that can be utilized to produce bioenergy in the form of briquettes. This study aims to develop and test the characteristics of biomass briquettes in order to evaluate the quality of the biochar briquettes and the calorific value they produce. The method used in this study was experimental, in which the adhesive and the composition of the mixed ingredients were varied as independent variables to affect the quality of the briquettes, while the moisture content, ash content, burning rate,put birds, calorific value is used as the dependent variable. In this study, the results obtained for water content ≤ 5%, volatile matter ≤ 10%, calorific value ≤ 6.553 cal/g, and a burning rate of 0.17 gram/minute which is expected according to the Indonesian National Standard (SNI) 01 6235 2000, namely the water content ≤ 8%, volatille matter ≤ 10%, calorific value ≤ 5,000 cal/g. The results of this study indicate that the biomass briquettes can meet the established quality standards, with appropriate moisture, ash and volatile matter content. In addition, the resulting calorific value also reaches the desired figure, indicating the potential of biomass briquettes as an efficient alternative fuel. The combustion rates found in this study also indicate that the biomass briquettes have characteristics that allow stable and effective combustion. Thus, this research succeeded in developing and testing the characteristics of biomass briquettes as an alternative fuel. The results of this study can contribute to the development of renewable energy sources and efficient use of biomass waste, as well as promote efforts to mitigate the negative impacts of the conventional energy sector on the environment.
ANALYSIS OF 3D PRINTING APPLICATIONS WITH ABS FILAMENT MATERIAL FOR DESIGNING UNMANNED AIRCRAFT BODYBUILS
Authors: Lazuardi Lazuardi , Akhlis Rizza Muhammad , Hadi Susilo Sugeng , Maryono Maryono
Published: November 2024

This research applies 3D printing technology using ABS filament material in designing the body of an unmanned aircraft. A quantitative approach to the simulation results is used to highlight the technical superiority of unmanned airframes. The analysis includes aspects such as structural strength. These findings provide deep insight into the potential application of 3D printing technology in the aerospace industry, as well as its application to the design, production costs and performance of unmanned aircraft. The research results show that the use of 3D printing with ABS filament has the potential to produce a strong and light aircraft body. From the research, it was found that the ideal layer thickness parameter of 0.1 to 0.2 mm does not exceed half the size of the nozzle diameter of 0.4 mm to produce fine raster fibers on the aircraft body without a crew. From the research it was found that the ideal speed parameter for printing the aircraft body frame unmanned aircraft with ABS filament material at a speed of 30 mm/s to 50 mm/s to produce a stable raster fiber size on the aircraft body and the percentage parameter of a good fill for printing the body frame of an unmanned aircraft is at a value of 20% up to 40%. The research results found the best printing parameters for printing aircraft frames with the parameter formula of 0.15mm 3D layer height, 20% gyroid infill, with a speed of 30mm/s maximum tensile strength reaching 30.7 MPa. By considering the challenges and opportunities associated with the use of 3D printing technology, this research provides a solid foundation for further development in designing and producing unmanned aircraft bodies efficiently and innovatively.
EFFECT OF ETHANOL AND WATER FUEL MIXTURE IN DIRECT INJECTION DIESEL ENGINE ON POWER AND SPECIFIC FUEL CONSUMPTION
Authors: Akhmad Nafii  , Irawan Bambang
Published: November 2024

The increasing use of fossil energy is causing a national and global energy crisis. To reduce dependence on fossil energy, planned actions are being taken to replace fossil energy with alternative energy sources, one of the alternative fuels that can be burned is ethanol or ethyl alcohol. This research aims to identify the effect of using a mixture of ethanol and water fuel, by controlling the ethanol content and the effect of engine speed on power and specific fuel consumption in direct injection engines, as well as identifying the interaction between ethanol content and engine speed. This research uses an experimental method by testing a direct injection engine connected to an  electric generator to determine power and SFC by testing variations in ethanol content and engine speed. For the load in this test, 3 250 Watt lamps are used. The result was that when testing the direct injection engine using a 93% ethanol fuel mixture it produced a power of 0.115 kW at 1300 rpm, while in the 96% ethanol test the power obtained was 0.118 kW at the same engine speed. For an ethanol content of 99% at 1900 engine speed, the highest power is obtained, reaching 2,326 kW, this indicates that the higher the ethanol content used, the greater the power produced. However, the SFC value has decreased. As in testing 93% ethanol content at 1300 engine speed, the SFC obtained was 2.2997 L/kWh. At 99% ethanol content, SFC experienced a minimum decrease of 0.6418 /kWh. At low ethanol levels, the water content tends to be high which causes the combustion process to be incomplete.
EFFECT OF BRAKE PADDING STRIKES AND REVERSING SPRING PRESSURE ON ACCELERATION OF DRUM BRAKES
Authors: Listiyono Listiyono , Nurhadi Nurhadi , Md Yusof Hazlina
Published: November 2024

Car performance is getting better and better over time. This is thanks to developments in engineering technology. Starting from conventional systems to VVTI technology. What you get is great power with very economical fuel consumption (high efficiency). Even more important is good exhaust emissions. All of this is simply managed by a tool called the ECU (Electronic Computerized Unit).
However, this large power output cannot be used properly by a vehicle if it is not equipped with a good chassis system and power scanning system. For this reason, this research will look for/obtain a good chassis system that can match the good engine system to date. The objectives of this research are 1. Is there a big influence of the tensile force of the return lining spring and the stroke of the brake lining on speed acceleration. 2. Look for the right pulling force of the cotton turning spring and the right lining strokes to produce high speed acceleration. The method used in this research is experimental. Meanwhile, the material used is a type of brake lining that is available on the market and is marked with strokes. The reversing spring is set to the desired tensile force. And the research data will be processed using Minitab software.
The research results show that: . 1. Scratches on the surface of the brake lining have a big influence on the release of the brake lining from the brake drum wall. By periodically applying strokes to the surface of the canvas, it will increase/maintain vehicle acceleration. 2. The pressure of the brake lining return spring affects the release of the drum brake lining. However, the greater the spring pressure, the more the vehicle's acceleration decreases. 3. Maximum scratches on the drum brake lining surface are 1 (mm).
 
Keywords: Drum Brakes, Spring Style, Drum Brake Pads, Speed ​​Acceleration,
APPLICATION PLANNING OF MICROHYDRO ELECTRICITY GENERATING TECHNOLOGY with 55 kW POWER IN THE MOUNTAINS USING THE RIVER FLOW OF COBAN RONDO WATERFALL, KRAJAAN, PANDESARI, Kec. PUJON, MALANG, EAST JAWA
Authors: LAZUARDI LAZUARDI , Akhlis Rizza Muhammad , Maryono Maryono
Published: November 2024

Abstract, In industry 5.0 availability of electricity plays an important role in the economic development of the community. In the villages on the slopes of the mountain there are still some villages that have not been connected to electricity so that the economic activity of the community is disrupted. Micro hydro electricity generation technology can be a solution to overcome the problem of the need for electrical energy in villages around the mountain slopes by utilizing differences in the height of the area and the flow rate of water from the river which has the potential to act as a turbine generator to be used as electricity to flow into the community to support community economic activities around the mountain slope. along with the existence of energy containers, the economy of the people on the slopes of the mountain will develop.
Buck-boost converter in photovoltaics for battery chargers
Authors: Saukani Imam , Nuraini Eko , Sukoco Heru Sumarno Agus , Tri Turani Saptawati Rina , Islahunufus Imanur , Sifaunnufus Ms Fi Imanur
Published: November 2024

Alternative energy is energy that is widely developed by scientists nowadays, especially in terms of electricity. Currently, the alternative energies that are widely developed are wind power, hydropower, geothermal energy, and solar power. Solar power is a promising energy source in Indonesia. The utilization of solar energy requires photovoltaics to convert solar energy into electricity, while for charging a12V/7Ah battery, a buck-boost converter is used. However, the use of the buck-boost converter still has some shortcomings, such as reversed voltage polarity. To address this issue, it is proposed to use a2-switch buck-boost converter. With the2-switch buck-boost converter, it is capable of charging the battery with an initial voltage of19V, which is then reduced to14.25V to charge the battery with an initial voltage of10.08V to11.16V within60 minutes, maintaining the same polarity as the initial input and with a maximum current from the photovoltaic of3.48A. In this thesis, Atmega16 is used to control the2-switch buck-boost converter and a50Wp photovoltaic with a maximum voltage of 21V and a current of 3.48A..
SIMULATION OF THE EFFECT OF BLANK GEOMETRY TOWARD THE MECANICAL PROPERTIES OF STRAINS AND STRESS ON DEEP DRAWING PROCESS USING MATERIAL ALUMINUM 7075
Authors: Pratama Adjie Yoga , Widyasari Auzini , Fakhruddin Muhammad , Muzaki Mochamad , Firmansyah Hilmi Iman
Published: November 2024

Using Aluminum 7075 at a high temperature of 50 degrees Celsius, this study examines the effect of various blank geometry angles on the mechanical properties of strain and stress during the deep drawing process. This study systematically examines the impact of different blank geometry angles on the deformation behavior, strain distribution, and stress concentration during the deep drawing process of Aluminum 7075 sheet using a numerical simulation approach. To describe the behavior of the material against the effect of the angle on the pressure in the simulation taking into account realistic parameters, the main point is the result of the pressure treatment of the predetermined angle on the results of the strains and stresses created. The obtained results, which include strain distribution, stress concentration, and overall mechanical reaction, provide important information for the choice of the best blank geometry angle in deep drawing of Aluminum 7075 at high temperatures. This research contributes to the advancement of process optimization in the metal forming industry, providing a solid foundation for improving efficiency and quality in deep drawing operations involving high-strength aluminum alloys.
Optimization of Making Edible Film from Glucomannan Flour with the Addition of CaCO3, Gelatin, Glycerol, Coconut Oil, and Tea Tree Oil
Authors: Irfin Zakijah , Moentamaria Dwina , Nur Arifa Anugraheni
Published: November 2024

The increase in population causes the level of basic needs to increase, one of which is in terms of food. Where mostly, the food industry uses petroleum-based plastic packaging, the use of these materials can contaminate food due to the nature of the chemical substances that are easily mixed with the packaged products. Therefore, it is necessary to have packaging technology that is safe and does not damage the environment, for example edible film (McHugh and Krochta 1994). The process of making edible films is carried out by mixing the independent variables, namely the concentration of CaCO3, gelatin, coconut oil, and glycerol and then testing the product in the form of tensile strength, elongation, water vapor transmission rate, and thickness. The first objective of this study is to determine the effect of each independent variable on tensile strength, elongation, water vapor transmission rate, thickness, biodegradation, and the number of microbes. Second, obtaining the optimum composition through RSM. The optimum results obtained from RSM resulted in the composition of each variable and response, namely gelatin 7 grams, CaCO3 0.8 grams, coconut oil 3 ml, and glycerol 2 ml and resulted in a minimum thickness response of 0.1 mm, minimum water vapor transmission rate of 1 g.m2 /day, maximum tensile strength of 86 kgf/cm2 , and maximum elongation of 43%.
Simulation Strength Analysis on PVC Pipe Blade Propeller Horizontal Axis Wind Turbine with Tip Elbow
Authors: Prayudha Aji Tisa , Wahyudi Bagus
Published: November 2024

Generally, The basic problem of wind energy technology is how to design wind turbines from materials that are easily available in the market, one of the solutions is PVC pipe as a blade material. This material is easily search at building shop . but, it is necessary to analyze the working stress that occurs in PVC blade construction, so that the PVC pipe propeller wind turbine is safe and durrable when applied in the community. The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of wind speed and tip elbow width on working stress. The simulation test method uses Ansys Flow Simulation Software and then the results are exported to Static Simulation to determine the strength of the material. Simulation tests were carried out with wind loads on PVC pipe propellers with wind speeds of 5 m/s, 6 m/s, and 7 m/s and elbow tip widths 100 mm, 110 mm, and 130 mm.
Improving the Quality of Frozen Chicken Sempol Products Using the Six Sigma Method at UMKM Suropati Pasuruan
Authors: Putra Muchamad Hengki Riawan , Utomo Eko Budi , Maulana Faris Rochman , Huda Muhammad Saiful
Published: November 2024

Suropati MSME is a frozen chicken abacus producer in Pasuruan Regency. More and more competitors require compani to improve the quality of their products as a step to prevent consumers from moving to competing products. Quality problems have not been fully implemented by Suropati MSME as seen from the large number of defective products. The purpose of this study is to determine the factors that cause product defects and provide suggestions for improvements that are in accordance with the conditions of MSME so as to achieve zero defects. The method used is six sigma DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control) with Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA). The sigma value obtained is 2.821 while the % final yield is 81.358%. The contributing factors are man (33.33%), machine/equipment (16.67%), method (33.33%), and environment (16.67%). The proposed improvements given are additional employees, the use of alarms, the use of production equipment according to production capacity, and temporary closure of the selling place.
Effect of Anodic Oxidation Voltages on the Color and Corrosion Resistance of Commercially Pure Titanium (CP-Ti)
Authors: Felisha Kurniawan Kandice , Ulfah Ika Maria , Kozin Muhammad
Published: November 2024

The effect of anodic oxidation (or anodizing) voltages on the color and corrosion resistance of pure titanium was studied.  In this experiment, a commercially-pure titanium was used. To create an "illusion of color," anodizing process modified the oxide layer on the surface of titanium. Because of an interference effect similar to that of a prism, the titanium oxide layer gives the perception of color. Light reflects at different angles from the oxide layer and the underlying titanium, and these reflections interfere with each other. Certain wavelengths of light cancel or merge, resulting in the perception of color from the remaining light. It was concluded that when we use a higher voltage to anodize the titanium, the corrosion rate will increase. It was observed that using 10V gives us the most optimum resistance. For surface roughness, using 40V in both KOH and DAP solutions give us the highest roughness data. Due to the high amount of voltage used in anodizing the titanium, the coating got thicker in the surface and it affects the roughness. The data have shown that the corrosion rate and surface roughness were inversely proportional.
Abuse of dominance in the electronic communications markets: overview of Croatian efforts with a report on recent developments
Authors:   Croatian law office BMWC, Bradvica Mislav , Rudec Kristina ,   Croatian law office BMWC
Published: November 2024

On 6 November 2019, the Croatian Competition Agency brought one of its latest decisions concerning dominance abuse on Croatian electronic communication market. When asked to assess the behaviour of the dominant incumbent, Agency had to deal not only with incumbent’s position in the electronic communications markets, but also with spillover of its power to electronic media market. In its ruling, the Agency concluded that exclusivity licencing terms regarding premium football content do not qualify as the abuse of dominant position. While the decision in itself might represent only an interesting read, if considered in the context of Agency’s previous practice, powers and influence of other Croatian regulatory authorities, it might also represent the long-awaited evidence of the need to shift perspective and invoke improved rules for antitrust cases concerning electronic communication operators in Croatia.
No Strings Attached? Zero-Price Practices on Social Media Markets under EU Abuse of Dominance Assessment
Authors:   Faculty of Management, University of Warsaw, Sznajder Marta
Published: November 2024

Do customers pay too little when they pay nothing for accessing a social media platform ‘for free’, and/or do they pay too much? These ‘free’ online services attract customers even if they come at personal information or attention costs. As competition law traditionally focuses on positive prices, ‘free’ services raise the question whether and how they could be assessed as potentially harmful to competition and consumers. Thus, the aim of this paper is to discuss the extent to which EU competition law can be applied to evaluate unilateral abusive pricing practices of social media platforms providing ‘free’ services to customers. It explores the economic characteristics and competitive dynamics of social media platforms, contrasts the traditional framework for assessment of abuse of dominance, predatory pricing, and excessive pricing with the challenges posed by their ‘free’ services, as well as offers recommendations.
Problèmes de comportement des enfants victimes d’agression sexuelle : contribution du fonctionnement en milieu scolaire
Authors: Guimond Camille , Jean-Thorn Arianne , Paradis Alison , Hébert Martine
Published: November 2024

L’agression sexuelle (AS) à l’enfance est associée à plusieurs conséquences, telles que des problèmes de comportement extériorisés et intériorisés. En plus de l’environnement social et familial, l’environnement scolaire est susceptible d’influencer le développement de l’enfant (Pérez-González et al., 2017). Peu d’études ont exploré l’impact du fonctionnement en milieu scolaire sur l’adaptation des enfants victimes. Cette étude vise à explorer la contribution du fonctionnement scolaire à la prédiction de problèmes de comportement évalués six mois plus tard chez des enfants victimes d’AS. L’échantillon comprend 152 enfants victimes d’AS âgé.es de 6 à 12 ans (M = 9,09; ÉT = 2,01) recruté.es dans différents centres spécialisés en AS, leur parent non-agresseur et leur enseignant.e. L’enfant et l’enseignant.e ont rempli des questionnaires au premier temps de mesure (T1) mesurant le fonctionnement adaptatif, la victimisation par les pairs, les compétences sociales, les stratégies d’adaptation et les attributions hostiles de l’enfant. Six mois plus tard (T2), le parent et l’enseignant.e ont complété des mesures de problèmes de comportement intériorisés et extériorisés de l’enfant. Les analyses de régressions hiérarchiques révèlent qu’un score élevé de fonctionnement adaptatif au T1 est associé à moins de problèmes de comportement extériorisés et intériorisés rapportés par l’enseignant.e au T2. Par ailleurs, un score élevé de contrôle de soi au T1 est lié à moins de comportements extériorisés évalués par le parent et l’enseignant.e au T2. Ces résultats soulignent l’importance d’évaluer différentes variables du fonctionnement scolaire des enfants victimes d’AS, puisqu’elles contribuent à prédire l’adaptation des enfants à court terme.
Percutaneous Injection of Calcium Phosphate Bone Substitute into a Chronic Calcaneal Bone Marrow Lesion Associated with a Fragility/Insufficiency Fracture: A Case Report
Authors: Amin Tarak H. , Woods Clive , Windram Warren
Published: November 2024

Pathologic fractures and marrow lesions of bones in the human foot and ankle can occur secondary to a variety of risk factors. The calcaneus is a rearfoot bone that provides support during weightbearing activities and walking. Although low-risk stress injuries to the bones in the foot and ankle are predominantly treated conservatively in low-demand patients, there are situations where surgical intervention is warranted. Surgical treatment options for calcaneal bone marrow lesions (BML) secondary to stress fractures are dearth with limited evidence supporting the use of the subchondroplasty (SCP) technique. This case report discusses surgical treatment with SCP of a chronic calcaneal BML sustained secondary to a insufficiency/fragility fracture.
Cross-Screw Fixation in Isolated Medial Malleolar Fractures
Authors: Esenyel Cem Zeki , Demir Tugcan , Karaca Halil , Kalkar İsmail
Published: November 2024

Background: Isolated medial malleolar fractures are observed less often than are lateral malleolar fractures, bimalleolar fractures, and trimalleolar fractures. The aim of treatment is to provide anatomical reduction, protect this reduction until the fracture heals, and to regain normal ankle function. The aim of our study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of patients with isolated medial malleolus fracture treated with cross-screw fixation.

Methods: The study included 13 patients: 9 males with a mean age of 37.1 years (range, 25–64 years) and 4 females with a mean age of 40.2 years (range, 24–62 years) who were treated with the cross-screw fixation method for an isolated medial malleolar fracture. The fracture union status was evaluated on the 3-month postoperative radiographs, and the functional outcomes with the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Scale (AOFAS) ankle score.

Results: The mean AOFAS score was 82 at 3 months postoperatively, evaluated as an excellent outcome in 2 patients, good in 9, and fair in 2. At the 24th month postoperatively, the mean AOFAS score was determined to be 92.2, evaluated as excellent in 11 patients and good in 2. On palpation of the medial malleolus, the mean VAS pain score was 2 (range, 1–3.8) at 3 months postoperatively, and a mean of 0.6 (range, 0.2–3) at 24 months.

Conclusions: Cross-screw fixation can be preferred for the fixation of isolated medial malleolar fractures as it causes less soft-tissue damage because it can be performed percutaneously, and the screw head has a low profile, thereby eliminating the need for a Kirschner wire to be applied together with the screw to prevent rotational deformity.
Cirsilineol improves anesthesia/surgery-induced postoperative cognitive dysfunction through attenuating oxidative stress and modulating microglia M1/M2 polarization
Authors: Du Junli , Chen Chao , Chen Jie
Published: November 2024

Background

Cirsilineol is a trimethoxy and dihydroxy flavonoid isolated from plant species such as Artemisia vestita and has a variety of pharmacological properties. This study analyzed whether cirsilineol could prevent postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD).

Methods

A POCD mouse model induced by anesthesia/surgery induction and a cell model established with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced microglia BV-2 were employed to explore the efficacy of cirsilineol on POCD. The cognition function of the mice were assessed by carrying out behavioral tests (Morris water maze test and Y-maze test). We assessed the activation and polarization status of microglia using immunofluorescence analysis and detected the expression levels of CD86 and CD206 using the quantitative PCR (qPCR). Subsequently, cell viability was determined by CCK-8 assay and apoptosis was assessed using Calcein-AM/PI staining. Meanwhile, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in plasma and cell culture medium were detected using chemiluminescence. Finally, the phosphorylation levels of JAK/STAT signaling pathway-related proteins were analyzed by Western blot.

Results

Cirsilineol reduced the escape latency and times of crossing island and increased spontaneous alternation (SA) rate, restoring the cognitive dysfunctions of POCD-modeled mice. Meanwhile, POCD elevated CD86 expression and malondialdehyde content and lowered the level of SOD; however, cirsilineol promoted CD206 expression and generation of SOD and inhibited malondialdehyde production. In H2O2-induced microglia BV-2, cirsilineol treatment increased SOD content and suppressed the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde, modulating microglia M1/M2 polarization and JAK/STAT pathway.

Conclusion

Cirsilineol prevented against POCD by attenuating oxidative stress and modulating microglia M1/M2 polarization, providing novel insights for the management of POCD.
Heavy metal concentrations in soil and ecological risk assessment in the vicinity of Tianzhu Industrial Park, Qinghai-Tibet Plateau
Authors: Qi Juan , Lu Xin , Sai Ninggang , Liu Yanjun , Du Wangyi
Published: November 2024

Industrial parks in China are centers of intensive chemical manufacturing and other industrial activities, often concentrated in relatively small areas. This concentration increases the risk of soil pollution both within the parks and in surrounding areas. The soils of the Tibetan Plateau, known for their high sensitivity to environmental changes, are particularly vulnerable to human activity. In this study, we examined the concentrations (mg/kg) of 10 metal elements (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Se, and Zn) in soils at depths of 0–10 cm, 10–20 cm, and 20–30 cm from the surface at three distances (500 m, 1000 m, and 1500 m from the park boundary) on the east, south, west, and north sides of the Tianzhu Industrial Park on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The concentrations of As, Cr, Mn, and Pb were close to the standard reference values for the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, while Cu, Ni, Se, and Zn levels were found to be 1.6-2.2 times higher than the reference values. Cd and Hg concentrations were particularly concerning, at 8.0 and 6.5 times higher than reference values, respectively. The potential ecological risk indexes indicated persistent risk levels for Cd and Se across various directions and distances. Variations in soil depth and direction were observed for the concentrations of As, Cd, Hg, Pb, Se, and Zn, underscoring the need for regular or long-term monitoring. Cd, in particular, presents a significant hazard due to its high concentration and its propensity for uptake by plants in the study area.
Wavelet transform-based mode decomposition for EEG signals under general anesthesia
Authors: Yamochi Shoko , Yamada Tomomi , Obata Yurie , Sudo Kazuki , Kinoshita Mao , Akiyama Koichi , Sawa Teiji
Published: November 2024

Background

Mode decomposition methods are used to extract the characteristic intrinsic mode function (IMF) from various multidimensional time series signals. We analyzed an electroencephalogram (EEG) dataset for sevoflurane anesthesia using two wavelet transform-based mode decomposition methods, comprising the empirical wavelet transform (EWT) and wavelet mode decomposition (WMD) methods, and compared the results with those from the previously reported variational mode decomposition (VMD) method.

Methods

To acquire the EEG data, we used the software application EEG Analyzer, which enabled the recording of raw EEG signals via the serial interface of a bispectral index (BIS) monitor. We also created EEG mode decomposition software to perform empirical mode decomposition (EMD), VMD, EWT, and WMD operations.

Results

When decomposed into six IMFs, the EWT enables narrow band separation of the low-frequency bands IMF-1 to IMF-3, in which all central frequencies are less than 10 Hz. However, in the upper IMF of the high-frequency band, which has a center frequency of ≥ 10 Hz, the dispersion within the frequency band covered was widespread among the individual patients. In WMD, a narrow band of clinical interest is specified using a bandpass filter in a Meyer wavelet filter bank within a specific mode-decomposition discipline. When compared with the VMD and EWT methods, the IMF that was decomposed via WMD was accommodated in a narrow band with only a small variance for each patient. Multiple linear regression analyses demonstrated that the frequency characteristics of the IMFs obtained from WMD best tracked the changes in the BIS upon emergence from general anesthesia.

Conclusions

The WMD can be used to extract subtle frequency characteristics of EEGs that have been affected by general anesthesia, thus potentially providing better parameters for use in assessing the depth of general anesthesia.
A Study of Financial Literacy of Rajkot District, Gujarat, India
Authors: Mehta Devang , Bhayani Sanjay
Published: November 2024

Since the independence of our country, there has been major focus on policy development and financial reforms. Financial inclusion has become a priority for both the central government and the RBI. For a nation to achieve financial inclusion effectively, the population should be financially literate. A review of existing literature in this field reveals that most studies have focused on three key variables, viz., financial literacy, financial development and economic growth. To contribute to this existing body of research, this paper explores the distinction between ‘financial literacy’ and ‘financial awareness’ to better understand what can truly drive ‘financial inclusion’ in the country. Primary data from 130 respondents was collected from the district of Rajkot, Gujarat, of which 100 respondents were taken into consideration, followed by statistical analysis of the data. The study concludes that gender makes a significant impact on financial literacy, where males showed higher financial literacy as compared to females. Further, age and education of the people makes a significant impact of financial literacy of the population, which in turn, will lead to financial inclusion. There do exist a marginal correlation between financial awareness and financial literacy (r=0.054).
Electrocoagulation in Wastewater Treatment: A Comprehensive Review of Heavy Metal and Pollutant Removal
Authors: Krishnamurthy Bhavya Devanooru , Puttaraju Likitha Mukkundur , Veeregowda Pallavi , Guruprasad Ruchitha Prasad , Balakrishna Lakshmi Shyarahalli
Published: November 2024

Population explosion, urbanization, and industrialization have resulted in the generation of many types of wastewaters. One of the most crucial aspects of water treatment is the elimination of pollutants/contaminants from wastewaters, as numerous industries cause environmental pollution. The rising scarcity of freshwater quality and quantity is a global concern. Discharging untreated wastewater into water bodies causes bad odour, nuisance and adverse impacts on human health, ecosystem and the world economy. Electrocoagulation (EC) is gaining ground as a potential electrochemical technique to treat wastewater due to its versatility, environmental compatibility and several other advantages. It is evident from the thorough literature review that electrocoagulation is the most frequently used and proficient process for the treatment of wastewaters containing pollutants/contaminants. During electrocoagulation in the electrochemical reactor, sacrificial anodes dissolute to release active coagulant flocs into the water/wastewater. During electrolytic reactions hydrogen gas evolves at the cathode. Many treatment methods, including adsorption, membrane filtration, coagulation/flocculation, and ion-exchange, advanced oxidation process, Moving Bed Bio-reactor, Sequencing Batch Reactor, Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket, Trickling Filter, Rotating Biological Contactors are used to remove pollutants/contaminants from water/wastewater. These aforementioned methods are capital intensive, require large areas, chemicals, and a high level of instrumentation and generate secondary sludge, which poses a risk to the environment without proper disposal. To overcome these drawbacks, Electrocoagulation to treat water/wastewater can be considered. This review article focuses on understanding the role of electrochemical coagulation technique in treating wastewater and the effects of different system characteristics and operating parameters. The first few sections of this article help readers quickly understand the adverse impacts of untreated wastewater and the importance of electrochemical coagulation in water/wastewater treatment. The later sections discuss the chemical reactions, mechanisms, and effects of different operating parameters in the electrochemical reactor, which contribute to the potential removal of pollutants/contaminants from water/wastewater. It also includes a section snippet about microplastics removal and three-dimensional electrocoagulation technique which is the latest and attention gaining technique in wastewater treatment. This article includes facts and findings considered from the published research and/or review articles.
Dynamic Behaviour of Simply Supported Non-Uniform Rayleigh Beam under Variable-Magnitude Accelerating Masses and Resting on Non-Uniform Bi-parametric Foundation
Authors: T. A. Ogunlusi , T. O. Awodola
Published: November 2024

The dynamic behaviours of simply supported non-uniform Rayleigh beam under variable-magnitude accelerating masses and resting on non-uniform bi-parametric foundation is investigated in this paper. A partial differential equation of fourth order governs the situation. The governing equation is converted into a series of coupled second order ordinary differential equations with variable coefficients using the Galerkin approach, which is based on the series representation of the Heaviside function.Two instances are examined;(i) the moving force problem when the inertia term is neglected and (ii) the moving mass case when the inertia term is considered. Variation of parameters are employed to get the transverse displacement response in order to solve the moving force problem,the moving mass problem cannot be solved using the widely used Struble’s asymptotic method due to the variability of the load magnitude. Therefore, a numerical technique, specifically the Runge-Kutta of fourth order is used to obtain an approximate solution. The numerical solution of the moving force problem is compared with the analytical solution in order to verify the accuracy of the Runge-Kutta scheme, and it compares favorably. From the analytical and numerical result, it is observed that the amplitude of the deflection profile of simply supported non-uniform Rayleigh beam decreases with an increase in the value of some vital structural parameters such as rotatory inertia correction factor, axial force, shear modulus and foundation modulus.
Mathematical Model of Copper Nanofluid Flow Past a Spherical Enclosure
Authors: Ngiangia Alalibo T. , Lawson Tombotamunoa W. J. , Nwabuzor Peter O. , Egbo Chijioke A.
Published: November 2024

The study examined mathematical models for describing the behavior of copper nanoparticles in water base fluid. Coupled hydrodynamic governing equations of momentum, energy and concentration were non dimensionalized and solved using installed Laplace transform technique in Mathematica 12.3. The solution obtained were used to analyze the effect of the material parameters on the concentration, temperature and velocity profiles of the copper nanofluid. Results of the study using graphs reveal that an enhancement of the nanoparticle size results in a depreciation of the concentration of the copper nanofluid and escalate the temperature and velocity profiles of the copper nanofluid. Also, the twin effect of an increase in Thermophoresis and Brownian motion bring about a decrease in the concentration of the nanofluid and an increase in the temperature and velocity of the nanofluid. An increase in the radiation parameter, enhanced the temperature of the nanofluid and depreciate the concentration and velocity of the nanofluid while an increase in the magnetic Hartmann number inhibits the velocity of the nanofluid, while an enhancement of the Lewis and Prandtl numbers led to a depreciation of the concentration, an increase in the temperature is observed, for the velocity, it is enhanced by sharp increase in the lewis number and accordingly depreciates by an increase in the Prandtl number. The Reynolds number increase also escalates the velocity profile of the copper nanofluid. Generally, it was observed that the copper nanofluid in some cases react abnormally in the presence of some material parameters under investigation which is a reflection of its characteristics.