bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Power Flow Control of the Grid-Integrated Hybrid DG System using an ARFMF Optimization
Authors: Mohammad Saleem , Sundarsingh Jeebaseelan S.D.
Published: October 2023

A power flow control scheme for a grid-integrated Hybrid DG System (HDGS) is presented in this work, utilizing an advanced random forest algorithm combined with the moth-flame optimization (ARFMF) approach. The proposed control scheme combines the random forest algorithm (RFA) and moth-flame optimization algorithm (MFO) for consolidated execution. The random forest algorithm (RFA), an AI technique, is well-suited for nonlinear systems due to its accurate interpolation and extrapolation capabilities. It is an ensemble learning method that combines multiple decision trees to make predictions. The algorithm constructs a forest of decision trees and aggregates their predictions to produce the final output. The moth-flame optimization (MFO) process is a meta-heuristic optimization procedure inspired by the transverse orientation of moths in nature. It improves initial random solutions and converges to superior positions in the search area. Similarly, the MFO is effective in nonlinear systems as it accurately interpolates and extrapolates arbitrary information. In the proposed technique, the RFA performs the calculation process to determine precise control gains for the HDGS through online implementation based on power variation between the source side and the load side. The recommended dataset is used to implement the AI approach for online execution, reducing optimization process time. The learning process of the RFA is guided by the MFO optimization algorithm. The MFO technique defines the objective function using system information based on equal and unequal constraints, including the accessibility of renewable energy sources, power demand, and state of charge (SOC) of storage systems. Storage devices such as batteries stabilize the energy generated by renewable energy systems to maintain a constant, stable output power. The proposed model is implemented on the MATLAB/Simulink platform, and its execution is compared to previous approaches.
Design and Performance Analysis of Rectangular Microstrip Patch Antennas Using Different Feeding Techniques for 5G Applications
Authors: Othman Hasan Sattar , Khabbat Ezzulddin Saman , Salim Hammd Othman , Hassan Mahmud Rashad
Published: October 2023

In this article, the design and performance of a novel rectangular microstrip patch antenna (RMPA) utilizing the dielectric substrate material FR4 of relative permittivity (Ԑr = 4.3) and thickness (h = 0.254 mm) is proposed to operate at (fr = 28 GHz). Three different feeding techniques (microstrip inset line, coaxial probe, and proximity coupled line) are investigated to improve the antenna radiation performance especially the antenna gain and bandwidth using Computer Simulation Technology (CST) and High Frequency Structure Simulator (HFSS). The simulated frequency responses generally reveal that the proximity-coupled fed provides extremely directive pattern and maintain higher radiation performance regardless of its antenna size which is larger than the other considered feeding ones. With the presence of the three feeding techniques, the gain is improved from 5.50 dB to 6.83 dB additionally, the antenna bandwidth is improved from 0.6 GHz to 3.60 GHz at fr = 28 GHz when the reflection coefficient S11= -10 dB. Compared to the previously designed RMPA, the proposed design has the advantages of reliable size, larger bandwidth and higher gain, which make it more suitable for many 5G application systems.
Compensating Chromatic Dispersion and Phase Noise using Parallel AFB-MBPS For FBMC-OQAM Optical Communication System
Authors: H. Abbas Ahmed , M. Jamel Thamer
Published: October 2023

Filter Bank Multi-Carrier Offset-QAM (FBMC-OQAM) is one of the hottest topics in research for 5G multi-carrier methods because of its high efficiency in the spectrum, minimal leakage in the side lobes, zero cyclic prefix (CP), and multiphase filter design. Large-scale subcarrier configurations in optical fiber networks need the use of FBMC-OQAM. Chromatic dispersion is critical in optical fiber transmission because it causes different spectral waves (color beams) to travel at different rates. Laser phase noise, which arises when the phase of the laser output drifts with time, is a major barrier that lowers throughput in fiber-optic communication systems. This deterioration may be closely related among channels that share lasers in multichannel fiber-optic systems using methods like wavelength-division multiplexing with frequency combs or space-division multiplexing. In this research, we use parallel Analysis Filter Bank (AFB) equalizers in the receiver part of the FBMC OQAM Optical Communication system to compensate for chromatic dispersion (CD) and phase noise (PN). Following the equalization of CD compensation, the phase of the carriers in the received signal is tracked and compensated using Modified Blind Phase Search (MBPS). The CD and PN compensation techniques are simulated and analyzed numerically and graphically to determine their efficacy. To evaluate the FBMC's efficiency across various equalizers, 16-OQAM is taken into account. Bit Error Rate (BER), Optical Signal-to-Noise Ratio (OSNR), Q-Factor, and Mean Square Error (MSE) were the primary metrics we utilized to evaluate performance. Single-tap equalizer, multi-tap equalizer (N=3), ISDF equalizer with suggested Parallel Analysis Filter Banks (AFBs) (K=3), and MBPS were all set aside for comparison. When compared to other forms of Nonlinear compensation (NLC), the CD and PN tolerance attained by Parallel AFB equalization with MBPS is the greatest.
Pengaruh Dompet Digital, Promosi Penjualan dan Kualitas Pelayanan terhadap Keputusan Pembelian Konsumen Indomaret (Studi Kasus pada Konsumen Indomaret di Jakarta Selatan)
Authors: Pusporini Pusporini , Aryani Lina , Resti Anggi Angga
Published: October 2023

This research is a research using quantitative methods with the aim of knowing the effect of digital wallets, sales promotions, and service quality on Indomaret consumer purchasing decisions. The population in this study are Indomaret consumers in South Jakarta with a sample of 100 consumers who have transacted at Indomaret using a digital wallet. Sampling method Probability sampling with Purposive Sampling. This study used a questionnaire to collect data and SmartPLS 4.0 software for data processing tools. The results of this study indicate that (1) Digital Wallet has a positive and significant effect with a path coefficient value of 0.427. (2) Sales promotion has a positive and significant effect with a path coefficient value of 0.448. (3) Service Quality has an effect and is not significant with a path coefficient of 0.046 on purchasing decisions. The contribution of digital wallets, sales promotions and service quality together to purchasing decisions is 78.3%, of which the remaining 21.7% is explained by other variables.
Fracture System Characterization by Pressure Probe
Authors: Szalai Sándor , Szűcs Péter , Lemperger István , Zubair Mohamed , Metwaly Mohamed , Gribovszki Katalin , Baracza Krisztián
Published: October 2023

Pressure Probe (PreP) is in effect a simplified penetrometer: it measures the mechanical resistivity of the soil at shallow depths dropping the probe always from the same height. The resolution of this technique is very good. It is able to detect e.g., fractures due to their decreased mechanical resistance if they are covered, but in a shallow depth with a reasonable sampling distance. An example will be demonstrated where fracture system of a slowly-moving landslide was characterized enabling also its delineation. In spite of that its maximal penetration is only about 0.5 m it may also give information from remarkable depths in case if fractures reach close to the surface indicating the borders of geological structures in larger depth. An example from India will be shown to present such results. All results have been verified by geoelectric measurements. PreP may also indicate any kind of hidden holes indirectly.
Investigations on the Effects of Rail Longitudinal Forces in Train-Track Dynamic Interaction
Authors: Taghipour Amirhesam , Zakeri Jabbar Ali , Mosayebi Seyed Ali
Published: October 2023

Nowadays, attention to railways has been increased as one of the important transportation methods. Various factors can cause longitudinal forces on the railway tracks, so the most important factors are the temperature changes due to the rail contraction and expansion (thermal forces), train braking system forces and acceleration, etc. Increasing longitudinal force can lead to buckling phenomena in railway tracks. In this paper, the effects of tensile and compressive longitudinal forces on the parameters of rail, sleeper, and ballast layers under vertical moving loads are investigated by using the finite element method. In this regard, by performing sensitivity analyses for different values of longitudinal forces and train speeds dynamic responses (displacement, velocity, and acceleration) of railway track components like rail, sleeper, and ballast have been studied. The results show that increasing the values of longitudinal axial force from –2000 [kN] up to 2000 [kN] as well as increasing the train speed from 10 [m/s] (36 [km/h]) up to 100 [m/s] (360 [km/h]) increases the rail displacement and velocity in the range of 25% up to 37% also the rail acceleration in the range of 9% up to 14%. The velocity and acceleration of the sleeper also the ballast velocity increase in the range of 24% up to 30% and 7% up to 9%, respectively, by increasing the speed of the train from 10 [m/s] (36 [km/h]) to 100 [m/s] (360 [km/h]) in all three modes without applying axial force, considering compressive and tensile one in the train-track interaction system.
BH3 profiling as pharmacodynamic biomarker for the activity of BH3 mimetics
Authors: Pan Rongqing Aaron , Wang Youzhen , Qiu Shumei , Villalobos-Ortiz Mariana , Ryan Jeremy , Morris Erick , Halilovic Ensar , Letai Anthony
Published: October 2023

Not available.
Production performance, breeding practices and challenges of Holstein-Local crossbred cattle in some selected areas of Bangladesh
Authors: Azad A , Mou MA , Hridoy MFA , Azam S , Safa MA , Bhuiyan AKFH , Bhuiyan MSA
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate productive and reproductive performances, current cattle breeding practices and its associated problems in different Holstein-Local (HF×L) crossbred genotypes under existing management condition of Bangladesh. Data on HF×L crossbred dairy cows were collected from the selected farmers of Natore, Sirajganj, Kishoreganj, Tangail and Gazipur districts while breeding bulls’ information were collected from different cattle breeding service providers. Genotype had significant effects on weight at first heat (WFH), mature body weight (MBW), age at first heat (AFH), age at first calving (AFC), post-partum heat period (PPHP), daily milk yield (DMY) and peak milk yield (PMY) (P<0.05) except the traits birth weight (BW) and service per conception (SPC). The HF75%×L25% crossbreds had significantly better AFH and AFC (P<0.001) than the three genetic groups having 50%, 62.5% and >75% HF inheritance. The highest DMY was found in >HF75%×L<25% (12.80±0.72 liters) and was lowest in HF50%×L50% (5.34±0.65 liters) crossbreds. At present 11 different graded breeding bulls have been used in artificial insemination (AI) program of Bangladesh. Use of heterogeneous breeding bulls (72.9%), AI technicians depended bull’s genotype selection (63%), absence of breeding data recording (89%) system and local market-based cow purchasing (83%) with unknown pedigree information were the major challenges identified for crossbred cattle development. Among the investigated samples, 27% cows suffered from various reproductive disorders like dystocia, low conception rate, abortion and retention of placenta. In conclusion, this study provides baseline information on actual production and reproduction potentials of different graded HF×L cows at farmers’ level and the associated limiting factors for crossbred cattle development in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh Journal of Animal Science 52 (3): 69-77.
Lafora disease presented with multiple seizure
Authors: Nayeem Rahatun , Nayeem Abu , Mandol Gurudas , Salsabil Tasmia , Shams Sifat , Islam Md Nowfel , Mohammad Quazi Deen
Published: October 2023

Among different types of Progressive Myoclonic Epilepsy (PME), Lafora disease is an autosomal recessive disorder, with age of onset 6-19 years. It is quickly progressive, and death occurs within 10 years. It is a glycogen metabolism disorder characterized by the presence of inclusion bodies, known as Lafora bodies within the cytoplasm of the skin, liver, breast and muscle. Lafora disease presents as a neurodegenerative disorder with difficult to control seizures mostly like progressive myoclonic epilepsy. But the disease may also present with multiple types of seizures like generalized tonic clonic, focal with secondary generalization, myoclonic, absence etc. Patient may also present with psychomotor regression with ataxia, dysarthria, dementia, visual hallucination etc. Electroencephalogram (EEG) shows generalized spike/ polyspikes and waves with photosensitivity and background slowing. Diagnosis is further confirmed by presence of inclusion bodies (Lafora body) with typical histological findings on skin biopsy and genetic testing. Here we present a case of Lafora disease that presented with progressive myoclonic epilepsy and generalized tonic clonic seizure. We took proper history, did meticulous clinical examination and investigated her at our institute. We confirmed the patient having Lafora disease with typical histological findings that is presence of Lafora body on skin biopsy taken from axilla. Then treatment was given to the patient accordingly and proper counseling was done about the disease and its prognosis.
J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2023; 41(4): 329-333
Evaluation of Recurrent Lymphadenitis after Six Months Anti-Tuberculous Therapy
Authors: Hasan Chowdhury Mohammad Mainul , Chowdhury M A Jalil , Kamal S M Mostofa , Anam M Khairul , Islam Khan M Touhidul , Zohura Fatima Tuj
Published: October 2023

Background: Recurrence or persistence of tuberculous lymphadenitis even after treatment occurs due to paradoxical immune response, non-tubercular mycobacterial (NTM) infection, drug resistance tuberculosis or because of misdiagnosis. In these situations sometimes the patients are asked to continue category-1 more than six months on the basis repeat fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) findings. This study evaluated the cause of persistence or appearance of new lymph node after anti-TB category-1.
Methods: This observational study was done from January, 2013 to March, 2014 after getting ethical clearance from Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU). Patients who had persistent or new lymphadenitis after completing anti-TB category-1 for six months were selected. After analysis of treatment records, patients were selected for either FNAC or biopsy with local surgical clearance. Cyto/histopathological analysis, AFB stain (LED fluorescent), AFB culture (MGIT and L-J media) and GeneXpert test was done. Follow-up of the patients were done after two weeks and six months of FNA/surgery.
Results: Thirty-two patients (M/F=11/21) with mean age 25(±12) years were investigated. Altogether 26 cases (81.25%) Journal of Bangladesh College of Physicians and Surgeons Vol. 41, No. 4, October 2023 were confirmed as tuberculous lymphadenitis and six (18.75%) were non-tuberculous (03 lymphomas, 01 sarcoidosis, 01 reactive lymphadenitis and 01 pyogenic abscess). Among the TB patients, granuloma was present in 23 cases (88.46%) (FNA-07, biopsy-16). Twenty-three (88.46%) cases were GeneXpert positive, comprising 21 rifampicin sensitive and 02 rifampicin resistant. One rifampicin resistant case was confirmed by culture and the remaining 25 were culture negative. One case was AFB stain positive and no NTM was found in AFB culture. After surgery, rapid healing was observed within two weeks among tuberculous lymphadenitis patients.
Conclusions: Persistent granuloma after anti-TB category-1 does not indicate active tuberculosis if it is culture negative. It may occur due to immunological reaction against dead bacilli in deep seated sinus. Local surgical clearance results rapid recovery and other diagnosis should be excluded without further continuation of anti-TB category-1.  

J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2023; 41(4): 262-268
DETERMINAN KEBIJAKAN DIVIDEN: STUDI PERUSAHAAN LQ45 DI BEI
Authors: Kusuma Pradana Jati , Haunan Damar  , Foza Hadyu Hasanatina
Published: October 2023

Pandemi virus Covid-19 yang terjadi pada tahun 2020 membuat perekonomian terpuruk tak terkecuali untuk perusahaan yang tergabung dalam indeks LQ45 yang dianggap memiliki likuiditas yang baik. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengidentifikasi faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi perilaku kebijakan dividen pada perusahaan LQ45 ditengah kondisi ketidakpastian ekonomi pada saat itu. Menggunakan teknik purposive sampling dalam pemilihan sampel sehingga diperoleh 11 perusahaan sampel yang sesuai. Proses analisis data dilakukan dengan metode kuantitatif menggunakan regresi data panel. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa debt ratio, firm size, dan exchange rate berpengaruh signifikan, sedangkan cash flow dan profitabilitas tidak berpengaruh signifikan terhadap dividend payout ratio. Hal ini menunjukkan bahwa beberapa perusahaan memilih mengalokasikan laba untuk usaha berkelanjutan mulai dari efisiensi hingga restrukturisasi modal pada saat pandemi yang ditunjukkan dari pengurangan porsi rasio pembayaran dividen.
Kata kunci: kebijakan dividen; payout ratio; pandemi; LQ45
 
The Covid-19 virus pandemic that occurred in 2020 brought the economy down, including companies included in the LQ45 index which are considered to have good liquidity. This study aims to identify the factors that influence the behaviour of dividend policy in LQ45 companies amid conditions of economic uncertainty at that time. Using a purposive sampling technique in selecting the sample to obtain 11 appropriate sample companies. The data analysis process was carried out using quantitative methods using panel data regression. The results showed that the debt ratio, firm size, and the exchange rate had a significant effect, while cash flow and profitability had no significant effect on the dividend payout ratio. This shows that several companies chose to allocate profits for sustainable businesses ranging from efficiency to capital restructuring during the pandemic as shown by the reduction in the portion of the dividend payout ratio.
Keywords: dividend policy; payout ratio; pandemic; LQ45
LIKUIDITAS COORPORATE GOVERNANCE DALAM PENYUSUNAN ANGGARAN KAS DINAS KOMUNIKASI DAN INFORMATIKA PROVINSI SUMATERA UTARA
Authors: Annio Indah Lestari Nasution  , Mei Suri Dian , Nurul Amelia Pratiwi Ritonga  , Thalia Anandani
Published: October 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis likuiditas coorporate governance dalam penyusunan anggaran kasDinas Komunikasi dan Informatika Provinsi Sumatera Utara dan peneliti ingin mengetahui bagaimana penyusunan anggaran dan laporan realisasi anggaran pada Dinas Komunikasi dan Informatika Provinsi Sumatera Utara apakah telah sesuai atau tidak. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode penelitian deskriptip kualitatif dan dalam pelaksanaannya penelitian ini mengumpulkan data primer yang diperoleh dari staff penyusunan anggaran dan program. Tenknik analisis data yang digunakan pada penelitian ini adalah data yang diperoleh dengan cara kualitatif depada bagian keuangan Dinas Komunikasi dan Informatika Provinsi Sumatera Utara. Teknik analisis data yang digunakan dalam penelitian kualitatif mencakup transkip hasil wawancara, reduksi data, analisis, interpretasi data dan triangulasi. Dari hasil analisis data yang kemudian dapat ditarik kesimpulan.dan hasil penelitian yang dilakukan ditemukan pengendalian kas yang ada di Dinas Komminfo Provinsi Sumatera Utara mengalami kekurangan dalam hal efisiensi anggarannya. Pengaruh anggaran kas yang ada terhadap pengendalian kas di dinas dapat dikatakan tidak efektif.
Kata kunci: Penyusunan Anggaran, Laporan Anggaran, Dinas Komunikasi Dan Informatika, Sumatera Utara, Magang
            This study aims to analyze corporate governance liquidity in the preparation of the budget for the Office of Communication and Informatics of North Sumatra Province and researchers want to find out how the preparation of the budget and reports on budget realization at the Office of Communication and Informatics of North Sumatra Province are appropriate or not. The method used in this study is a qualitative descriptive research method and in practice this research collects primary data obtained from budgeting and program staff. The data analysis technique used in this study is data obtained qualitatively from the financial department of the Communication and Informatics Office of North Sumatra Province. Data analysis techniques used in qualitative research include interview transcripts, data reduction, analysis, data interpretation and triangulation. From the results of data analysis, conclusions can then be drawn. And the results of the research conducted found that cash control in the Kominfo Office of North Sumatra Province experienced deficiencies in terms of budget efficiency. The influence of the existing cash budget on cash control in the department can be said to be ineffective.
Keywords: Budget Preparation, Budget Report, Office of Communication and Informatics, North Sumatra, Internship
EVALUASI PERSEBARAN INFRASTRUKTUR PENGISIAN KENDARAAN LISTRIK DI INDONESIA DENGAN MEMPERHATIKAN INDEKS KUALITAS UDARA UNTUK MENDORONG PENJUALAN KENDARAAN LISTRIK
Authors: Dian Fatikno Handoko , Wicaksono Adi Okky
Published: October 2023

Saat ini penggunaan kendaraan bermotor masih didominasi oleh bahan bakar fosil yang menyebabkan Indonesia mengalami masalah polusi udara dan berkontribusi besar terhadap emisi gas rumah kaca. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk melakukan evaluasi terhadap persebaran infrastruktur pengisian daya kendaraan listrik di Indonesia dengan mempertimbangkan faktor Indeks Kualitas Udara dalam rangka mendorong pertumbuhan penjualan kendaraan listrik sebagai alternatif yang ramah lingkungan dan berkontribusi terhadap penurunan emisi gas rumah kaca. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode analisis regresi dan korelasi untuk menguji hipotesis tentang pengaruh pembangunan SPKLU terhadap penurunan Indeks Kualitas Udara. Hasil analisis menunjukkan bahwa pembangunan SPKLU belum berpengaruh secara signifikan terhadap penurunan Indeks Kualitas Udara. Oleh karena itu, penelitian ini merekomendasikan adanya analisis mendalam dalam proses perencanaan pengembangan infrastruktur agar mampu memprediksi jumlah SPKLU yang dapat dibangun di suatu daerah berdasarkan Indeks Kualitas Udara.
Kata kunci: Penjualan, Kendaraan Listrik, Stasiun Pengisian Kendaraan Listrik Umum (SPKLU), Indeks Kualitas Udara, Paris Agreement
 
Currently, the use of motor vehicles is still dominated by fossil fuels, which causes Indonesia to experience air pollution problems and contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. This study aims to evaluate the distribution of electric vehicle charging infrastructure in Indonesia, considering the Air Quality Index, to promote the growth of environmentally friendly electric vehicle sales and contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The study uses regression and correlation analysis methods to test hypotheses about the effect of SPKLU development on reducing the Air Quality Index. The results of the analysis indicate that the development of SPKLU has not yet had a significant impact on reducing the Air Quality Index. Therefore, this study recommends a more in-depth analysis of the infrastructure development planning process to predict the number of SPKLU that can be built in an area based on the Air Quality Index.
Keywords: Sales, Electric Vehicles, Public Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (SPKLU), Air Quality Index, Paris Agreement
PENGARUH PELATIHAN DAN PENILAIAN KERJA TERHADAP PRODUKTIVITAS KERJA PEGAWAI BADAN PUSAT STATISTIK LABUHANBATU
Authors: Nafis Fadly Abdillah , Syafina Laylan , Ikhsan Harahap Muhammad
Published: October 2023

Di era globalisasi, perusahaan perlu beroperasi dengan baik. Karyawan juga memerlukan tinjauan kinerja untuk menetapkan harapan untuk perilaku di masa depan. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh pelatihan dan penilaian kerja terhadap Produktivitas Kerja Pegawai Badan Pusat Statistik (BPS) Labuhanbatu. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan mix method ataupun penelitian yang menggunakan dua pendekatan yaitu kuantitatif dan dilanjutkan dengan penelitian kualitatif untuk memperjelas hasil penelitian. Dalam penelitian kuantitatif sampel yang digunakan adalah sebanyak 42 karyawan dari karyawan Pegawai Badan Pusat Statistik (BPS) dan dalam penelitian kualitatif objek penelitiannya adalah kepala Badan Pusat Statistik (BPS) Labuhanbatu sebagai informan 1 menggunakan analisis wawancara model analisis interaktif. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa  Faktor pelatihan, secara parsial tidak memiliki pengaruh terhadap produktivitas kerja pegawai Badan Pusat Statistik (BPS) Labuhanbatu. Dengan hasil thitung<ttabel (0,929
 
In the era of globalization, the company needs to operate well. Employees also need performance reviews to set expectations for future behavior. The aim of this research is to determine the effect of training and work assessment on the work productivity of Labuhanbatu Central Statistics Agency (BPS) employees. The method used in this research uses a mix method approach or research that uses two approaches, namely quantitative and followed by qualitative research to clarify the research results. In quantitative research, the sample used was 42 employees of the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) and in qualitative research the research object was the Head of the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) Labuhanbatu as informant 1 using interview analysis using an interactive analysis model. The results of this research indicate that the training factor partially has no influence on the work productivity of Labuhanbatu Central Statistics Agency (BPS) employees. With the results tcount<ttable (0.929<1.681). Partial work assessment variables have a significant influence on the work productivity of Labuhanbatu Central Statistics Agency (BPS) employees. Based on the results of the t test where tcount > ttable (8.165 > 1.681). The training and work assessment variables simultaneously (together) have a significant influence on the work productivity of Labuhanbatu Central Statistics Agency (BPS) employees based on the F test, where Fcount > Ftable (47.820 > 2.83).
Diagnostic Evaluation of Hair Loss: A Narrative Review
Authors: Minta Abena , Rose Lucy , Kobayashi Sonja , Dulmage Brittany
Published: October 2023

The psychosocial impact of alopecia on the quality of life of patients underscores the importance of dermatologist readiness to evaluate this common chief complaint. When evaluating a patient presenting with new-onset hair loss, the differential diagnosis may be broad, encompassing many subtypes of hair loss. Each type of scarring or non-scarring alopecia presents with its own unique aetiology, epidemiology, clinical presentation, trichoscopic findings, and laboratory studies. Further, accurate diagnosis is needed to determine appropriate therapeutic management. This review provides a systematic approach for dermatologists to use in order to accurately diagnose hair loss disorders, including clinical examination, laboratory evaluation, and specialised tests.
The discursive tensions of Darija in Morocco's online news articles: A diachronic corpus-assisted approach
Authors: Fahmi Zakaria
Published: October 2023

In keeping with a diachronic corpus-assisted discourse approach, this study explores the way Darija, the colloquial Arabic variety in Morocco, has been discursively constructed in online news articles over a ten-year timespan. To this end, a specialized corpus of over one million words was compiled from the news website Hespress. The study integrates the analysis of collocational frequencies and contextual examination of concordances, interrogating the links of the discourses encircling Darija with major sociopolitical events. Notwithstanding the local deep-seated linguistic rivalries and the prevailing standard-language ideology, the findings suggest that Darija during this period adopts a joint discourse of resistance with Amazighiya (Berber) against the Arabophone ideology, arguing for a consolidated constituency of Moroccanness, fundamental to the maintenance and (re)production of the country’s cultural identity. Such findings shed light on language as a site of struggle, in which issues of social and institutional inequities are negotiated between contested ideologies.
Predator Comparison
Authors: Bachner Andrea
Published: October 2023

Comparison is predation: a violent severing, a forced fusion, a deadly contest of forces. Or this, at least, seems to be the specter that haunts Comparative Literature. The fraught legacies of Comparative Literature often impel methodological reflection into binaries of bad versus good comparison. This also leads us frequently to connect, maybe too closely, a certain way of doing comparison and its potential political value. This essay starts a reflection on the ethical dilemmas and rhetorical habits of comparison by analyzing one metaphor of good comparison, tied to the concept of friendship, and comparing it with an approach to comparison that embraces predatory structures instead. To think through the trope of friendship, the essay draws on R. Radhakrishnan work in ‘Why Compare?’ with Jacques Derrida's notion of friendship from Politics of Friendship via Gayatri Spivak's Death of a Discipline. For a model for thinking comparison with and through predation, the essay draws on the work of Brazilian anthropologist Eduardo Viveiros de Castro with its focus on predatory relationalities among Amerindian cultures of the Amazon. The essay suggests that we need to leave behind ‘safe’ comparative models as well as critique the tropes that drive reflections on comparison.
Öğretmen Adayları İle Fen Deneyleri Konusunda Yapılan Çalışmaların Betimsel İçerik Analizi
Authors: Özkurt İbrahim , Ültay Eser , Ültay Neslihan
Published: October 2023

Bu araştırmanın amacı; öğretmen adayları ile fen deneyleri konusunda yapılan çalışmaların yılları, amaçları, gerekçeleri, araştırma yöntemleri, örneklemleri, veri toplama yöntemleri, bulguları, sonuçları ve önerilerinin betimsel tarama ile analiz edip sunulmasıdır. Bu araştırmada, Google Akademik, YÖK Ulusal TEZ Merkezi, Giresun Üniversitesi Sanal Kütüphanesi Piri Reis ve ULAKBİM Ulusal Veri Tabanları’nda “fen ve deney, öğretmen adayları ve deney, öğretmen adaylarının gözüyle deney, deney görüşleri” ve bu anahtar kelimelerin İngilizcelerini içeren çalışmalar taranmıştır. Tarama sürecinde altı yüksek lisans tezi, 23 Türkçe ve bir İngilizce makale olmak üzere toplam 30 adet çalışma tespit edilmiş ve bunlar araştırmanın örneklemini oluşturmuştur. Elde edilen veriler analiz edilerek belirli temalara ayrılmış tablo, içindeler, grafik ve şekiller halinde sunulmuştur. Araştırma sonucunda çalışmaların çoğunlukla öğretmen adaylarının deneysel süreç becerilerini geliştirmeye yönelik amaçlar taşıdığı ve bu amaçlara yönelik olarak en sık kullanılan araştırma yönteminin tarama modeli olduğu görülmüştür. Çalışmaların yayımlandığı yıllara göre dağılımlarına bakıldığında, en fazla çalışmanın 2018 yılında yayımladığı; 2003, 2004, 2007, 2008, 2013, 2022 yıllarında ise hiç çalışma yayımlanmadığı belirlenmiştir. Çalışmalarda veri toplama aracı olarak en fazla görüşme formunun tercih edildiği, çalışmalarda en çok tercih edilen öğretmen adayı grubunun fen bilgisi-fen bilimleri çalışma grubunun olduğu tespit edilmiştir. Çalışmaların sonuçlarına bakıldığında, öğretmen adaylarının süreç içerisinde zorlandığı ancak deney planlama ve deney yürütme becerilerinin kullanıldığı argümantasyon temelli öğrenme, mikroorganizmalarda deney tasarlama vb. uygulamalarının gerekli olduğu görülmüştür. Ayrıca bu uygulamalar neticesinde öğretmen adaylarının; deney malzemelerini kullanma, deney öncesi önlem alma, deney esnasında yapılacakları düzene koyma, deney sonrası rapor tutma, sosyal olma ve işbirlikçi çalışma gibi çeşitli becerilerinin arttığını belirttikleri tespit edilmiştir. Araştırmaların önerilerine bakıldığında öğretmen adaylarının kendi deneylerini tasarlayıp yürütmeleri konusunda öğretmen adaylarına fırsatlar verilmesi gerektiği önerisinin öne çıktığı tespit edilmiştir.
Temel Dil Becerilerinin Geliştirilmesinde Yaratıcı Dramanın Kullanımı: Örnek Ders Planları
Authors: Urfalı Dadandı Pakize
Published: October 2023

Temel dil becerilerini geliştirmede kullanılabilecek çağdaş yöntemlerden biri yaratıcı dramadır. Eğitimde yaratıcı drama kullanımı ile ilgili çok fazla araştırma bulunmaktadır. Bu çalışmaların çoğunda drama sürecinin etkililiğine odaklanıldığı görülmektedir. Bununla birlikte kendine özgü teknikleri ve bileşenleri olan yaratıcı dramada öğretmen bir lider olarak görülür ve liderin de bazı niteliklere sahip olması gerekir. Öğretmenin lider olarak ilk görevlerinden biri etkili ve doğru bir ders planı hazırlamasıdır. Dolayısıyla mevcut çalışmada Türkçe öğretiminde bir yöntem olarak yaratıcı drama kullanımının çeşitli boyutlarıyla betimlenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Bu kapsamda öncelikle Türkçe öğretiminde yaratıcı dramanın gerekliliği ve önemi, ardından da bir yaratıcı drama lideri olarak Türkçe öğretmeninin özellikleri ve Türkçe öğretiminde kullanılabilecek yaratıcı drama teknikleri açıklanmıştır. En son aşamada ise ilgili alan yazınında yer alan çalışmalarda öğretmenlerin yaratıcı drama uygulamalarında zorlandıkları konulardan biri olduğu vurgulanan ders planı hazırlama sürecine yer verilmiştir. Bu kısımda özellikle öğretmenlere kendi derslerinde kullanabilecekleri veya kendi planlarını oluştururken fikir edinebilecekleri, uzman görüşleriyle son şekli verilen üç ders planı örneği sunulmuştur. Ortaya konan bilgiler bağlamında öğretmenlere ve alan uzmanlarına yaratıcı drama yöntemini daha etkili kullanabilmeleri ve bu alanda kendilerini geliştirebilmeleri için birtakım öneriler sunulmuştur.
Güneş Sistemi Konusuna Yönelik Beceri Temelli Başarı Testi Geliştirilmesi
Authors: Turan Faruk , Timur Betül
Published: October 2023

Bu çalışmanın amacı 2018 yılında değişen Fen Bilimleri Öğretim Programı’ndaki 6. sınıf Güneş Sistemi konusu ile ilgili beceri temelli sorulardan oluşan geçerli ve güvenilir çoktan seçmeli başarı testi geliştirmektir. Bu amaç doğrultusunda araştırmacı tarafından Güneş Sistemi konusu kazanımlarına uygun 25 soruluk beceri temelli özgün sorular hazırlanmıştır. Hazırlanan bu sorular geçerlik çalışmaları için uzman görüşüne sunulmuş, uzmanlardan alınan dönütler doğrultusunda düzenlenmiş 253 öğrenci üzerinde uygulanmıştır. Uygulama sonrası öğrencilerden elde edilen veriler TAP ile analiz edilmiştir. Madde ayırt edicilik indeksinin tüm sorular için alan yazında belirtilen 0.30 değerinin üstünde olası için gereken sorular testten çıkarılmıştır. Testin ortalama madde güçlük indeksi 0.60, güvenilirlik katsayısının 0.77 olduğu yapılan analizlerle hesaplanmıştır. Bu çalışma sonucunda elde edilen oluşan Gezegenler Konusu Başarı Testinin, beceri temelli sorulardan oluşma özelliğiyle 6.sınıf fen öğretimi kapsamında alana büyük katkı sağlayacağı düşünülmektedir.
Okul Yöneticilerinin Duygusal Zekâ Algılarının Okul Sinerji Düzeyine Etkisinin İncelenmesi
Authors: Bilgivar Orkun Osman , Topal Ergün
Published: October 2023

Bu araştırmanın amacı, okul yöneticilerinin duygusal zekâ algılarının okul sinerji düzeyine etkisinin incelenmesi olarak belirlenmiştir. Araştırma ilişkisel tarama modeline göre gerçekleştirilmiştir. Araştırmanın örneklemini İstanbul ili Pendik ilçesinde 2021-2022 Eğitim Öğretim yılında görevli olan 303 okul yöneticisi oluşturmaktadır. Araştırmanın örneklemi kolayda örnekleme yöntemine göre belirlenmiştir. Veri toplanma aşamasında kişisel bilgiler için Demografik Değişkenler Formu, yöneticilerin duygusal zekâ algılarını belirlemek amacıyla Duygusal Zekâ Ölçeği ve örgütsel sinerji algılarının belirlenmesinde Örgütsel Sinerji Ölçeği kullanılmıştır. Verilerin analizi aşamasında; tanımlayıcı istatistikler, değişkenlerin aralarındaki etkiyi tespit etmek amacıyla Pearson korelasyon testi ve regresyon analizi yapılmıştır. Ulaşılan bulgulara göre; “okul yöneticilerinin duygusal zekâ ve örgütsel sinerji algılarının yüksek düzeyde” olduğu tespit edilmiştir. Yapılan analizler neticesinde okul müdürlerinin duygusal zekâ algıları ile örgütsel sinerji algıları arasında kurulan model istatiksel olarak anlamlı bulunmuş ve duygusal zekânın örgütsel sinerjiyi pozitif yönde ve düşük düzeyde yordadığı sonucuna ulaşılmıştır.
The effect of teff (Eragrostis tef) hay inclusion on feed intake, digestibility, and milk production in dairy cows
Authors: Wagali Philip , Ngomuo Godliver , Kilama Justine , Sabastian Chris , Ben-Zeev Shiran , Ben-Meir Yehoshav A. , Argov-Argaman Nurit , Saranga Yehoshua , Mabjeesh Sameer J.
Published: October 2023

Teff (Eragrostis tef) is a drought-tolerant, multi-harvest, high-quality summer forage crop. We conducted a study aiming at assessing the effect of replacing wheat hay with teff hay in diets on the feed intake, digestibility, and lactational performance of dairy cows. Thirty-four multiparous (≥3rd parity) Israeli Holstein Friesian dairy cows averaging (± SD) 182 days in milk ± 8 days in milk, 45 kg/d ± 4.8 kg/d of milk yield, and a body weight of 647.1 kg ± 51 kg at the beginning of the study were recruited to a 6-week feeding trial. Cows were randomly divided into two balanced groups based on parity, days in milk, and milk yield. Cows were subjected to two low-roughage dietary treatments (~30% roughage): a control wheat hay-based diet and a teff hay-based diet. Production performances, dry matter intake, and nutrient digestibility were measured. Milk samples were analyzed for their composition and fatty acids profile. Blood samples were used to measure metabolite concentrations. The statistical model included fixed effects of dietary treatments, time, and random effects of cows nested in treatment. Production data and feed intake were analyzed as repeated measures using a covariance structure. Dietary treatments did not affect dry matter intake (26 kg/d). However, the teff-fed cows demonstrated higher crude protein digestibility than control cows (61.9% vs. 59.2%). Dietary teff inclusion increased milk yield by 1.5 kg/d. Polyunsaturated fatty acids and omega-3 fatty acids profiles in milk were greater in the teff cows than in the control cows (4.77 g/100 g vs. 4.36 g/100 g and 3.71 g/100 g vs. 3.43 g/100 g, respectively). Non-esterified fatty acids, beta-hydroxybutyrate, and blood urea nitrogen concentrations in circulation were higher in the control group than in the teff group. The acetic-to-propionic-acid ratio in the rumen fluid was higher in control cows than in teff cows (2.90 vs. 2.43). However, the ruminal ammonia-N concentration was higher in the teff cows than in the control cows (18.5 mg/dL vs. 15.8 mg/dL). In conclusion, teff hay inclusion in the rations of high-producing dairy cows increased milk yield, which could be attributed to improved crude protein digestibility and energy partition to production.
Factors influencing the efficacy of invisalign in molar distalization and tooth movement
Authors: Chen Xiaowen , Shi Ying , Yuan Jieying , Li Ye , Chen Weican
Published: October 2023

Introduction: The work aims to establish and analyze the factors influencing the efficacy of Invisalign in molar distalization and tooth movement. Objectives of the study: 1) identify factors contributing to molar distalization and tooth movement; 2) analyze the effectiveness of Invisalign technology in molar distalization and tooth movement.

Methods: The study was conducted in 2020–2022 in Baoding (PRC) based on Baoding’s first central hospital. Forty patients (mean age 28.5 ± 1.5 years, 18–35 years; 20 women and 20 men) participated in the study.

Results: All patients had mild to moderate degrees of tooth crowding, with an angle class II malocclusion, as well as maxillary third molars. Before and after the therapy, the condition of the alveolar bone, soft tissues, and facial height were measured. Fixation of the anterior teeth was performed. Calculations of the distal molar movement were performed. For orthodontic procedures, the second M of the upper jaw were moved, and then the first molars were moved.

Discussion: Distalization of the upper molars was found to be an effective movement, with an efficiency of about 83% when vertical rectangular attachments were used. The first molar was moved distally by 2.85 mm without significant tilt or movement in the vertical plane.
Advances in materials used for minimally invasive treatment of vertebral compression fractures
Authors: Sui Pengfei , Yu Tong , Sun Shouye , Chao Bo , Qin Cheng , Wang Jingwei , Wang Erwei , Zheng Changjun
Published: October 2023

Vertebral compression fractures are becoming increasingly common with aging of the population; minimally invasive materials play an essential role in treating these fractures. However, the unacceptable processing-performance relationships of materials and their poor osteoinductive performance have limited their clinical application. In this review, we describe the advances in materials used for minimally invasive treatment of vertebral compression fractures and enumerate the types of bone cement commonly used in current practice. We also discuss the limitations of the materials themselves, and summarize the approaches for improving the characteristics of bone cement. Finally, we review the types and clinical efficacy of new vertebral implants. This review may provide valuable insights into newer strategies and methods for future research; it may also improve understanding on the application of minimally invasive materials for the treatment of vertebral compression fractures.
The role and mechanism of inflammatory response to growing rod implantation in early onset scoliosis
Authors: Zhang Haoran , Han Bingtai , Li Zhiyi , Zhao Yiwei , Du You , Yang Yang , Wang Shengru , Zhang Jianguo
Published: October 2023

Growing rod implantation, a surgery treatment for EOS (early onset scoliosis), may cause a kind of chronic inflammation called metalosis and all other implant-related complications because of the metal debris released by the implants as a result of fraction and corrosion. There is no complete explanation of immunologic mechanisms of metalosis up to now. This review demonstrates the researches on metalosis from the clinical issues down to basic immunologic mechanisms. Adverse reactions of metal implants are mainly the formation of NLRP3 (nod-like receptor protein 3) inflammasome, primed by TLR4 (toll-like receptor protein 4), activated by phagocytosis and often accompanied by type Ⅳ hypersensitive reaction. Recent studies found that TNF-α (tumor necrosis factor α) also participates in priming, and activation of inflammasome requires disturbance of lysosome and release of cathepsin B. Ca-074Me and MCC950 are therapeutic interventions worth exploring in aseptic loosening of orthopedic implants.
Using chemostratigraphy and biostratigraphy methods to define the unconformity underlying the Upper Ordovician Pagoda Formation in the Upper Yangtze Platform
Authors: Ma Xueying , Deng Shenghui , Lu Yuanzheng , Fan Ru , Zhang Fenglian , Sun Yanqi , Li Xu , Qu Zhengyang
Published: October 2023

The discovery of hydrocarbon in the Pagoda Formation in South China has received attention from the petroleum industry. This research paper identifies the discontinuity surface underlying the Pagoda Formation. The Upper Ordovician strata were correlated in different regions using the conodont biostratigraphy, and δ13C and δ18O isotope stratigraphy. The biostratigraphic result illustrates that three conodont zones can be established in each study section, and one to three conodont zones are missing in the lower Pagoda Formation and the strata underlying the Pagoda Formation of the Upper Yangtze Platform. Moreover, the chemostratigraphic result highlighted that the development of the lower δ13C isotope positive excursion events in the Xiaogangwan and Liangcun areas was less complete than that in the Jiaodingshan area. Combined with the cyclostratigraphic results, the development of the δ13C isotope positive excursion is not complete. The development of the δ13C excursion event is more complete in the south and east than in the center and north. This demonstrates that the Pagoda Formation began its deposition at different times and the transgression process may have advanced from the southeast to the north and that the contact between the Pagoda Formation and the underlying formation is not conformable. It is proposed that the Late Ordovician in the South China Plate was affected by the tectonic movement and the cooling paleoclimate at that time, which resulted in the discontinuity between the Pagoda Formation and the underlying strata. The unconformity could be the channel for hydrocarbon migration or for the high-quality oil and gas reservoirs being developed and preserved under the unconformity surface.
Causality between urate levels with sarcopenia-related traits: a bi-directional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Lin Yanze , Wang Xun , Yao Wenchao , Sun Yuanting , Zhou Jinlei , Feng Fabo
Published: October 2023

Background

Observational studies have suggested associations between serum urate levels and sarcopenia, but the causality underlying this correlation remains uncertain. The principal objective of this study is to investigate a causal relationship of serum urate levels with sarcopenia-related traits (hand grip strength, lean mass, walking pace) using bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approach. The utilization of MR methodology serves to minimize bias caused by reverse causality and confounding factors from observational studies.

Methods

The summary statistics of serum urate levels were derived from a cohort consisting of 288,659 individuals participating in CKDGen study. The parameters of right-hand grip strength (N=461,089), left-hand grip strength (N=461,026), appendicular lean mass (ALM) (N=450,243), whole-body lean mass(N=454,850),right-leg fat-free mass(FFM;N=454,835),left-leg FFM(N=454,805), right-arm FFM(N=454,753),left-arm FFM(N=454,672) and walking pace (N=459,915)were sourced from the UK Biobank. MR analysis was conducted utilizing inverse variance weighted (IVW), weighted median, and MR-Egger to evaluate causality. Sensitivity analysis was performed using Cochran’s Q test, MR-Egger intercept test, leave-one-out analysis and the funnel plot.

Results

IVW estimates demonstrated that serum urate levels exhibited no causal association with sarcopenia-related traits. In the inverse MR investigation, we had exclusively discerned an inverse correlation between walking pace and serum urate levels. No compelling evidence had surfaced to substantiate any association of other sarcopenia-related traits with serum urate. Supplemental MR methods consistently validated the findings obtained from the primary analysis. Sensitivity analysis demonstrated the robustness of findings.

Conclusion

Our MR study revealed the absence of the bidirectional causal relationship between serum urate levels and sarcopenia. It is imperative to acknowledge that advanced age and an individual’s health status are pivotal determinants influencing urate level and the initiation and advancement of sarcopenia. However, it is worth underscoring that these aspects remain unexamined within the purview of this study. Thus, future investigations should delve deeper into these intricate facets.