bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
APLIKASI PUPUK ORGANIK CAIR BERBAHAN DASAR BATANG PISANG TERHADAP PERTUMBUHAN DAN PRODUKSI TANAMAN TOMAT (LYCOPERSICUM ESCULENTUM MILL.)
Authors: Laginda Yakop S. , Darmawan M. , Syah Ikrar Taruna
Published: May 2024

Tomat (Lycopersicum esculentum Mill.) merupakan sayuran buah yang tergolong tanaman semusim dan banyak mengandung vitamin dan mineral. Batang pisang yang selama ini dianggap sebagai sampah dan berbau, ternyata banyak mengandung unsur kimia yaitu kalium, fosfor dan kalsium yang berpotensi untuk dijadikan pupuk. Penelitian ini menggunakan Rancangan Acak Kelompok (RAK) dengan perlakuan berupa Pupuk Batang Pisang (P). Pemupukan terdiri dari empat perlakuan, yaitu P0 (0 ml/aplikasi), P1 (350 ml/aplikasi), P2 (500 ml/aplikasi) dan P3 (650 ml/aplikasi). Tiap perlakuan diulang sebanyak 3 kali sehingga terdapat 16 unit pengamatan. Pertumbuhan tanaman tomat dengan nilai tertinggi pada tinggi tanaman dan jumlah daun diperoleh pada perlakuan 650 ml/aplikasi. Sedangkan pada masa generatif perlakuan 650 ml/aplikasi juga menunjukkan pengaruh yang nyata terhadap jumlah buah, berat buah pertanaman, dan berat buah perbedengan.
STRATEGI PENGEMBANGAN USAHA PENGGILINGAN DAGING DI KABUPATEN SERUYAN PROPINSI KALIMANTAN TENGAH
Authors: Saputra Eko
Published: May 2024

Pembangunan pertanian khususnya subsektor peternakan dibidang usaha penggilingan daging bertujuan untuk memenuhi kebutuhan akan konsumsi daging bagi masyarakat, pengembangan usaha yang tepat agar usaha penggilingan daging dapat berkesinambungan, dan meningkatkan perekonomian masyarakat selaku pengusaha dan pengguna jasa penggilingan daging. Tujuan penelitian adalah menganalisis strategi pengembangan usaha penggilingan daging di Kabupaten Seruyan. Jenis penelitian adalah penelitian eksplanatori, teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan beberapa metode, antara lain: observasi, wawancara (interview), kuesioner, studi literatur dan melakukan pencatatan data yang dibutuhkan penelitian. Penelitian dilakukan dengan pendekatan deskriptif analitis, yaitu metode yang memusatkan diri pada pemecahan masalah-masalah yang ada pada masa sekarang dan pada masalah-masalah aktual. Sumber data yang digunakan terdiri dari data primer dan sekunder yang bersumber dari subyek, informan, dan arsif atau dokumen. Populasi penelitian adalah pengusaha penggilingan daging di Kabupaten Seruyan. Teknik pengambilan sampel menggunakan teknik non probability sampling. Jenisnya adalah purposive sampling, yaitu teknik penentuan sampel dengan pertimbangan tertentu, yaitu 6 orang pekerja sekaligus pengusaha penggilingan daging di Kabupaten Seruyan. Metode analisis data untuk memformulasikan strategi pengembangan usaha digunakan analisis SWOT (Strength, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan usaha penggilingan daging di Kabupaten Seruyan berada pada kuadran pertama sehingga dapat menjalankan stratgi S-O, diantaranya meningkatkan kuantitas dan kualitas daging hasil penggilingan, dan diversifikasi produk olahan daging hasil penggilingan.
KAJIAN DAMPAK LA NINA TERHADAP KUALITAS HASIL SALAK PONDOH (Salacca edulis Reinw.) SELAMA PENYIMPANAN SUHU RUANG
Authors: Nasrudin N , Elizani Prahesti
Published: May 2024

Changes in rainfall with high humidity due to La Nina can be one of the factors that can affect the quality of the yield of horticultural products. La Nina simulation was done by soaking snake fruits in water for a certain time. The aimed of this research was to examine the effect of La Nina carried out using simulations on several quality parameters of snake fruits. This research used a non-factorial Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with two treatments, fruit without soaking and fruit soaked for 5 minutes (La Nina simulation). The treatment was repeated three times. Observations were made at 0 days, 3 days, 6 days and 9 days. The La Nina simulation treatment with 5 minutes soaking affected the quality of snake fruits, which shown by the decreasing in the physical appearance of the fruit, the hardness of the fruit, and the total acid content of the fruit. In general, a decrease in some qualities of snake fruits occurs on the 6th to 9th day of storage.
Analisis Hubungan Rantai Pasok Terhadap Kualitas Rumput Laut di Kabupaten Bantaeng
Authors: Tahir Rahmawati , Mundiyah A Iva
Published: May 2024

The government's demand to improve the quality of production and business development not in accordance with a condition of development of seaweed cultivation in Bantaeng Regency, South Sulawesi as a center for seaweed development, which is still relatively low. The low production and quality were influenced by various factors. This study aims were to identify the structure of the seaweed supply chain, analyze post-harvest handling, and describe the quality of seaweed in Bantaeng Regency. The total sample of 27 respondents taken by purposive sampling. This research used a qualitative descriptive approach and SWOT analysis. The results showed that the seaweed supply chain business actors in Bantaeng Regency were still in the open market negotiation process with their respective roles. Farmers play a role in seaweed farming activities, traders collectors play a role as an intermediary for information. Providers of capital for farmers and the quality of seaweed in this area is still relatively low.
Analisis Pertumbuhan Tanaman Padi Varietas IPB 4S pada Media Tanam dengan Tingkat Cekaman Kekeringan Berbeda
Authors: Nasrudin N , Firmansyah Efrin
Published: May 2024

Drought is abiotic stress that can inhibit the growth and yield of rice plants. A simple method to determine the physiological response, growth, and yield of rice is using plant growth analysis. The aim of this research was to study the physiological characters of IPB 4S rice varieties on planting media with different drought stress levels using plant growth analysis. This research used a non-factorial completely randomized design with 6 levels of water percentage from field capacity, namely field capacity, 10% of field capacity, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50% of field capacity. The treatment was repeated three times so that there were 18 experimental units. Observation of plant growth analysis was carried out by measuring leaf area and plant dry weight at 3 and 8 days after planting. Drought stress 20-50% of field capacity has a net assimilation rate, leaf area index, and plant growth rate 8 weeks after planting lower than drought stress at field capacity up to 10% of field capacity. In general, an increase in drought stress by 20-50% results in a decrease in net assimilation rate, plant growth rate, and leaf area index of 8 weeks after planting. This shows that the IPB 4S variety of rice plants has tolerance to drought stress up to 10% of the field capacity.
Trophic ecology of Brycon henni (Pisces: Bryconidae) in Nare and Guatapé Rivers, Magdalena River basin, Colombia
Authors: Mancera-Rodríguez Néstor Javier ,   Universidad Nacional de Colombia
Published: May 2024

Understanding the trophic ecology of fish and how they use resources in space and time is important to support conservation and management actions. The trophic ecology of Brycon henni in the Nare and Guatapé rivers, Magdalena river basin, Colombia was determined. Five field samplings were carried out between October 2007 and January 2010, in rainy, dry, and dry-to-rainy transition periods. Stomachs of 262 specimens were collected. A Kruskall-Wallis analysis and a Mann-Whitney pairwise comparison test was performed to detect differences in the alimentary importance index of each food category between sex, size class, hydrological period and basins (Nare vs Guatapé). The Levin’s Measure of Niche Breadth and the Morisita’s Diet Overlapping Index were calculated to establish differences between size class in the different hydrological periods. Vegetable material was the most important food item, followed by Insecta, and fish. Individuals from Guatapé basin consumed more plant material and fish and fewer insects. We observed increased consumption of plant material and fish in ontogeny. Levin's niche breadth was lower and diet overlapping between individuals of length classes was higher during rainy period because the diet was mainly based on plant material. The diet of B. henni was composed mainly of plant material and Insects, and to a lesser extent from other groups such as fish, crustaceans and arachnids.
Pengaruh Pelaksanaan Ibadah Puasa terhadap Pendidikan Karakter Islam (Self Control) Mahasiswa Muslim di Universitas Negeri Medan
Authors: Anshari Fazril , Siregar Hapni Laila , Aini Putri Nur , Zahra Salsabila , Ayu Silvana Oyasi , Sabila Siti Zahra
Published: May 2024

Islamic character education is basically a general character education which contains various aspects of Islam to form Islamic characters that are based on Islamic teachings. One of character education is self-control. Self-control is an individual's ability to control behavior and impulses that can harm themselves or others. In Ramadan, as a month full of blessings for Muslims, fasting is expected to strengthen students' self-control abilities in their daily lives. This research aims to determine the impact of fasting on Muslim students’ self-control at Medan State University. This research is motivated by an understanding of the importance of religious practices in students' lives, especially for psychological well-being and personal development. This research used a quantitative approach. Data were collected by distributing a questionnaire to Muslim students at Medan State University who observed fasting in Ramadan. Data analysis was carried out using descriptive statistical techniques to identify the relationship between fasting and students' level of self-control. The findings describe that there is a significant influence of fasting on students’ self-control at Medan State University, which is quantitatively proven through the results of data analysis.
On Rotation Distance of Rank Bounded Trees
Authors: Anoop S.K.M. , Sarma Jayalal
Published: May 2024

Computing the rotation distance between two binary trees with n internal nodes efficiently (in poly( n) time) is a long standing open question in the study of height balancing in tree data structures. In this paper, we initiate the study of this problem bounding the rank of the trees given at the input (defined in [1] in the context of decision trees).

We define the rank-bounded rotation distance between two given full binary trees T1 and T2 (with n internal nodes) of rank at most r = max{rank( T1), rank( T2)}, denoted by dR( T1, T2), as the length of the shortest sequence of rotations that transforms T1 to T2 with the restriction that the intermediate trees must be of rank at most r. We show that the rotation distance problem reduces in polynomial time to the rank bounded rotation distance problem. This motivates the study of the problem in the combinatorial and algorithmic frontiers. Observing that trees with rank 1 coincide exactly with skew trees (full binary trees where every internal node has at least one leaf as a child), we show the following results in this frontier: We present an O( n2) time algorithm for computing dR( T1, T2). That is, when the given full binary trees are skew trees (we call this variant the skew rotation distance problem) - where the intermediate trees are restricted to be skew as well. In particular, our techniques imply that for any two skew trees dR( T1, T2) ≤ n2. We show the following upper bound: for any two full binary trees T1 and T2 of rank r1 and r2 respectively, we have that: dR( T1, T2) ≤ n2(1 + (2 n + 1)( r1 + r2 – 2)) where r = max{ r1, r2}. This bound is asymptotically tight for r = 1.

En route to our proof of the above theorems, we associate full binary trees to permutations and relate the rotation operation on trees to transpositions in the corresponding permutations. We give exact combinatorial characterizations of permutations that correspond to full binary trees and full skew binary trees under this association. We also precisely characterize the transpositions that correspond to the set of rotations in full binary trees. We also study bi-variate polynomials associated with binary trees (introduced by [2]), and show characterizations and algorithms for computing rotation distances for the case of full skew trees using them.
Elimination Distance to Bounded Degree on Planar Graphs Preprint
Authors: Lindermayr Alexander , Siebertz Sebastian , Vigny Alexandre
Published: May 2024

We study the graph parameter elimination distance to bounded degree, which was introduced by Bulian and Dawar in their study of the parameterized complexity of the graph isomorphism problem. We prove that the problem is fixed-parameter tractable on planar graphs, that is, there exists an algorithm that given a planar graph G and integers d, k decides in time f( k, d) · nc for a computable function f and constant c whether the elimination distance of G to the class of degree d graphs is at most k.
Perturbation Results for Distance-edge-monitoring Numbers
Authors: Yang Chenxu , Klasing Ralf , He Changxiang , Mao Yaping
Published: May 2024

Foucaud et al. recently introduced and initiated the study of a new graph-theoretic concept in the area of network monitoring. Given a graph G = ( V( G), E( G)), a set M ⊆ V( G) is a distance-edge-monitoring set if for every edge e ∈ E( G), there is a vertex x ∈ M and a vertex y ∈ V( G) such that the edge e belongs to all shortest paths between x and y. The smallest size of such a set in G is denoted by dem( G). Denoted by G – e (resp. G\ u) the subgraph of G obtained by removing the edge e from G (resp. a vertex u together with all its incident edges from G). In this paper, we first show that dem( G – e) – dem( G) ≤ 2 for any graph G and edge e ∈ E( G). Moreover, the bound is sharp. Next, we construct two graphs G and H to show that dem( G) – dem( G\ u) and dem( H \ v) – dem( H) can be arbitrarily large, where u ∈ V( G) and v ∈ V( H). We also study the relation between dem( H) and dem( G), where H is a subgraph of G. In the end, we give an algorithm to judge whether the distance-edge-monitoring set still remain in the resulting graph when any edge of a graph G is deleted.
Project management logics for agile public strategic management: Propositions from the literature and a research agenda
Authors: Bonomi Savignon Andrea , Costumato Lorenzo
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we call for an integration of project management logics within the now mature field of public strategic management, to analyze the potential contribution of projects in terms of increased strategic agility, in a context where traditional strategic planning and management tools and approaches are increasingly seen at risk of not being responsive enough to rapidly changing external conditions. To pursue this objective, we carry out a problematizing literature review on the two streams, by incorporating journal and book contributions from the last 30 years on Web of Science Database. 509 contributions have been quantitatively and qualitatively analyzed to answer two interconnected research questions: What is the state of the art in the literature on the interactions between project management and public strategic management? And, how can project management logics be integrated within traditional strategic planning and management processes in the public sector in order to achieve strategic agility? We find that, until today, public management literature has only sporadically dealt with the potential influence of project management logics on strategic management and, more in detail, strategy implementation. Furthermore, the review enables a discussion of five organizational drivers fostering an agile approach in public strategy implementation. Using a narrative approach, they then lead to the formulation of five researchable propositions. We conclude by proposing an updated model of the strategic planning and management cycle in the public sector, factoring in potential agile practices and feedback mechanisms induced by incorporating project logics in the implementation of strategy.
Sustainable employability in supported employment and Individual Placement and Support interventions in the context of the characteristics of work and perspectives of the employers: A scoping review
Authors: Poutanen Joonas , Juvonen-Posti Pirjo , Unkila Kirsi
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND: In Supported Employment (SE) and Individual Placement and Support (IPS) research, less attention has been paid to employers’ interests and the quality and opportunities of jobs or the work itself for sustainable working careers. OBJECTIVE: To explore what is known about sustainable employability in SE and IPS interventions in the context of the characteristics of work and perspectives of employers. METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted in the Medline, Scopus, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Social Science Premium Collection (ProQuest) databases. The scoping review process was carried out in accordance with the methodological guidelines. The analysis included numerical summary, qualitative content, and thematic analysis processes. RESULTS: From the total of 2,729 articles, 20 studies were included. The majority of the jobs were entry-level, part-time and on fixed-term basis. There were only few descriptions of interaction at work. From the themes arising from the reviewed studies, “Productivity in the job performance”, “Making a job-person match” and “Workplaces strategies for integrating work, recovery and wellness” contained the most data. CONCLUSION: Research from the point of view of the employers and other workplace actors is scarce. More research is needed also about interactions at work and the meaningfulness of work for people with disabilities.
Enhanced EDAS technique for quality evaluation of online games interface design based on three types of probabilistic linguistic similarity measures
Authors: Wei Kang , Huang Yuhan
Published: May 2024

The highest level of interface design for online games is to achieve invisibility, which means that the interface is very natural and easy to use. Players are proficient in using it and fully immerse themselves in the world of online games. It seems that the interface is transparent and they no longer feel its existence. Excellent online game interface design is the requirement of users that runs through the entire design process. But this is not to say that the usability of online game software can surpass other factors. All great designs seek a balance and harmony between artistic beauty, reliability, security, usability, cost, and performance. The quality evaluation of online games interface design is a multiple-attribute group decision-making (MAGDM) problem. Recently, the Evaluation Based on Distance from Average Solution (EDAS) technique, cosine similarity measure (CSM), Dice similarity measure (DSM), Jaccard similarity measure (JSM) and entropy technique has been separately employed to cope with MAGDM issues. The probabilistic linguistic term sets (PLTSs) are employed as a tool for conveying uncertain information during the quality evaluation of online games interface design. In this paper, the EDAS technique is expanded to the PLTSs and the probabilistic linguistic EDAS (PL-EDAS) technique based on cosine similarity measure (CSM), Dice similarity measure (DSM) and Jaccard similarity measure (JSM) is constructed to manage MAGDM issue. The information entropy technique is employed to implement the weight values based on CSM technique, DSM technique and JSM technique under PLTSs. Finally, the quality evaluation of online games interface design is employed to demonstrate the PL-EDAS technique and some comparative analysis is employed to demonstrate the PL-EDAS technique. Thus, the main research contribution of this work is constructed: (1) the information entropy technique is constructed to implement the attribute weight values based on CSM technique, DSM technique and JSM technique; (2) the PL-EDAS technique is constructed under PLTSs based on CSM technique, DSM technique and JSM technique; (3) an example for quality evaluation of online games interface design is employed to verify PL-EDAS technique and several decision comparative analysis is employed to verify the PL-EDAS technique.
“A great feeling to know that there’s somebody interested in improving your life”: Experiences of a blended falls prevention programme
Authors: Motley Kate , Parab Tanvi , Jordan Mary , Kelly Maura , Noone Vanessa , O’Malley Nicola , Clifford Amanda M.
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND: Falls have a detrimental effect on Ireland’s ageing population and result in a significant personal and healthcare cost burden. Evidence-based falls prevention programmes reduce the harmful effects of falls. The Covid-19 pandemic disrupted in-person programme delivery and necessitated a shift to telerehabilitation. The feasibility and acceptability of falls prevention telerehabilitation needs further investigation. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to explore the opinions of participants and physiotherapists about a falls prevention telerehabilitation programme, and identify key barriers and facilitators to improve the quality of future similar programmes. METHODS: A qualitative study design was used, 13 semi-structured one-to-one telephone interviews (n = 11 participants, n = 2 physiotherapists) were performed. Data were coded and thematic analysed. RESULTS: Four inter-related themes were identified: technical considerations for change in mode of programme delivery to online and blended; facilitators and barriers for effective delivery of the online and blended programmes; factors promoting programme engagement and progress; significance of supportive interpersonal relationships. CONCLUSIONS: Participants and physiotherapists reported improvements in strength, balance and confidence, and willingness to continue the exercises long-term. Telerehabilitation had some advantages over in-person including flexibility and convenience; however, these gains must be considered against the drawbacks of less social interaction and group cohesion. Key insights identified regarding satisfaction with the technology, format and delivery can be used to improve the quality of future online and blended programmes.
Beyond compliance: The impact of data protection on statistical excellence – A view from the 2021 Population-Housing Census in Greece
Authors: Kasapis Apostolos , Kritikou Dimitra-Artemis
Published: May 2024

In this paper we propose the idea that compliance of a producer of official statistics to the basic principles of data protection in the preparation of a survey, while imposing additional burden, complexity or even restrictions to the process, can actually prove to be an effective tool to ensure and demonstrate compliance with the Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics and the European Statistics Code of Practice. To show the validity of this idea we utilize the Greek Population and Housing Census of 2021, conducted in 2021 by the Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT), as a representative example of statistical survey, which was built from the beginning with a primary look to the basic data protection principles of the General Data Protection Regulation of the European Union (GDPR). While preparing the Census we came across the intrinsic interplay that exists between principles of the GDPR and the Fundamental Principles and the Code. In the paper we analyze this interplay as we came across it in the Census and show that it can be used as a tool to strengthen the implementation of basic principles of official statistics in all statistical production processes.
Evaluation of the quality of Internet information on masseter botox injection for bruxism
Authors: Terzi Mithat , Buyuk Suleyman Kutalmış , Akdemir Hale
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND: Botulinum toxin, commonly referred to as botox, is frequently used in facial aesthetics, but also has therapeutic applications in various medical and surgical conditions such as bruxism treatment. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this research is to evaluate the information quality of only English resources available on the Internet regarding the use of botulinum toxin in the treatment of bruxism. METHODS: The terms “Botox + Tooth Grinding” selected for this study were searched on the Internet using the Google Search Engine, and the URLs of the top 150 websites containing only English pages were recorded and examined. The websites were assessed using DISCERN tools, the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmark, and HONcode tools. The website readability evaluation involved utilizing the Flesch Reading Ease Score (FRES) and the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level (FKGL). RESULTS: A total of 130 websites met the inclusion criteria. The total mean DISCERN score (section 1 + section 2) for all websites was 39.75/75 (range: 15–67). The average FRES of all websites was 52.79, and the average FKGL score of all websites was 10.72. Internet blog websites had significantly higher DISCERN (Section 1) scores than other websites (p= 0.007). Only one website had the HON code. Internet blog websites showed better compliance with JAMA (authorship and currency) benchmarks. No statistically significant difference was determined related to FRES and FKGL scores between groups (p> 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: There is moderate and difficult-to-read information on the Internet about masseter botox injection for bruxism. Relevant guidelines are needed to improve the quality of websites about botulinum toxin for the treatment of bruxism.
Comparing the accuracy of crown fitting between milling and 3D printing techniques using CAD/CAM technologies
Authors: Alhamoudi Fahad Hussain
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND: The accuracy of dental crowns is crucial for their longevity and effectiveness. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate how the precision of crowns is affected by two different fabrication methods, either subtractive (milling) or additive (3D printing), within computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacture (CAD/CAM) technology. METHODS: A standardised digital scan of a maxillary first molar with a shoulder margin (.stl file) was used to design and fabricate crowns through both subtractive (milling) and additive (3D printing) processes. The crowns’ marginal and internal fits were assessed comprehensively. Statistical analysis, including two-way ANOVA and independent t-tests, revealed significant differences in fitting accuracy between the two methods. RESULTS: Crowns produced via 3D printing demonstrated superior fitting with minimal marginal (14 ± 5 μm) and internal discrepancies (22 ± 5 μm) compared to milling (marginal: 22 ± 4 μm, internal: 23 ± 3 μm), indicating a statistically significant advantage in precision (p⁢s⩽ 0.022 for marginal fit). CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that 3D printing may offer a more accurate alternative to milling in the fabrication of digital dental prostheses, potentially revolutionising the field with its enhanced precision capabilities.
Clinical study on the influence of phacoemulsification on retinal structure of senile cataract based on data mining
Authors: Zheng Xuna , Wang Xianglong , Zhu Pin
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND: With the improvement of the level of science and technology, diagnosis and treatment technology of ophthalmology has continuously improved, especially with the rise of optical coherence tomography. Alternative methods have enabled clinicians to obtain more information and make greater breakthroughs in the occurrence and development of many ophthalmic diseases. OBJECTIVE: To investigate changes in retinal structure in the macular area of senile diabetic cataract patients undergoing cataract phacoemulsification. METHODS: This was a prospective cohort study. A total of 68 cataract patients (78 eyes) who voluntarily received phacoemulsification combined with intraocular lens implantation in the Department of Ophthalmology of our hospital from December 2018 to December 2021 were selected. They were divided into A (diabetic) and B (non-diabetic) according to whether they were complicated with diabetes. There were 24 cases (28 eyes) in A and 44 cases (50 eyes) in B. Cataract patients were collected before and after surgery. Day, 1 week, and 1 month, data on the average thickness of the fovea retina and thickness of the retinal nerve fiber layer around the optic disc (average thickness, nasal thickness, topic side thickness, upper thickness, and lower thickness) were statistically analyzed analyze. RESULTS: The average retinal thickness of the macular fovea in Group A was found to be greater than that of Group B, however, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups. At week one and week thirty, Group A’s layer of retinal nerve fibers surrounding the optic disc thickened; there was no discernible difference between the two groups. One week and one month following surgery, however, showed a one-week difference in upper thickness compared to preoperative days. There was no discernible change between the preoperative and 1-day times. CONCLUSION: Both diabetic cataract patients and simple age-related cataract patients will have different degrees of increased foveal retinal thickness after surgery. However, the foveal retinal thickness of patients with diabetes increases more.
Effects of robot-assisted walking training on balance, motor function, and ADL depending on severity levels in stroke patients
Authors: Lee Soo Yong , Choi Yu Sik , Kim Min Hyuk , Chang Woo Nam
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND: Despite the explosive increase in interest regarding Robot-Assisted Walking Training (RAWT) for stroke patients, very few studies have divided groups according to the severity levels of patients and conducted studies on the effects of RAWT. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to present a definite basis for physical therapy using the robot-assisted walking device through a more detailed comparison and analysis and to select the optimal target of RAWT. METHODS: This study was designed as a prospective and randomized controlled trial to investigate the effect of RAWT on balance, motor function, and Activities of Daily Living (ADL) depending on severity levels in stroke patients. 100 participants were randomly divided into study and control groups in equal numbers. The study group was 49 and the control group was 47. One from the study group and three from the control group were eliminated. The study period is four weeks in total, and RAWT is performed five times a week for 40 minutes only for study group. During the same period, all group members had 30 minutes of Conventional Physiotherapy (CP) five times a week. RESULTS: The results of this study clearly confirmed that RAWT combined with CP produces more significant improvement in patients with stroke than the CP alone. And they indicated that RAWT had a more considerable effect in the poor or fair trunk control group for trunk balance and in the high fall risk group for balance. In motor function, RAWT showed its value in the severe and marked motor impairment group. The total or severe dependence group in ADL experienced more improvements for RAWT. CONCLUSION: This study can be concluded that the lower the level of physical functions, the more effective it responds to RAWT. As demonstrated in the results of this study, the potential of current robotic technology appears to be greatest at very low functional levels of stroke patients. Patients with low functional levels among stroke patients may benefit from robot rehabilitation.
Thermographic assessment of skin temperature after lumbar spine surgery: Useful method for detection of wound complications? A pilot study
Authors: Weber Maximilian , Lenz Maximilian , Wassenberg Lena , Perera Akanksha , Eysel Peer , Scheyerer Max Joseph
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND: Wound complications after lumbar spine surgery may result in prolonged hospitalization and increased morbidity. Early identification can trigger appropriate management. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of infrared-based wound assessment (FLIR) after lumbar spine surgery in the context of identifying wound healing disorders. METHODS: 62 individuals who underwent lumbar spine surgery were included. The immediate postoperative course was studied, and the patient’s sex, age, body mass index (BMI), heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, numeric rating scale for pain (NRS), C-reactive protein (CRP), leukocyte, and hemoglobin levels were noted and compared to thermographic measurement of local surface temperature in the wound area. RESULTS: Measurement of local surface temperature in the wound area showed a consistent temperature distribution while it was uneven in case of wound healing disorder. In this instance, the region of the wound where the wound healing disorder occured had a lower temperature than the surrounding tissue (p> 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates the ongoing importance of clinical wound assessment for early detection of complications. While laboratory parameter measurement is crucial, FLIR may serve as a cost-effective supplemental tool in clinical wound evaluation. Patient safety risks appear minimal since local ST is measured without touch.
Machine learning-driven predictions and interventions for cardiovascular occlusions
Authors: Thomas Anvin , Jose Rejath , Syed Faiz , Wei Ong Chi , Toma Milan
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular diseases remain a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality, with heart attacks and strokes representing significant health challenges. The accurate, early diagnosis and management of these conditions are paramount in improving patient outcomes. The specific disease, cardiovascular occlusions, has been chosen for the study due to the significant impact it has on public health. Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of mortality globally, and occlusions, which are blockages in the blood vessels, are a critical factor contributing to these conditions. OBJECTIVE: By focusing on cardiovascular occlusions, the study aims to leverage machine learning to improve the prediction and management of these events, potentially helping to reduce the incidence of heart attacks, strokes, and other related health issues. The use of machine learning in this context offers the promise of developing more accurate and timely interventions, thus improving patient outcomes. METHODS: We analyze diverse datasets to assess the efficacy of various machine learning algorithms in predicting heart attacks and strokes, comparing their performance to pinpoint the most accurate and reliable models. Additionally, we classify individuals by their predicted risk levels and examine key features that correlate with the incidence of cardiovascular events. The PyCaret machine learning library’s Classification Module was key in developing predictive models which were evaluated with stratified cross-validation for reliable performance estimates. RESULTS: Our findings suggest that machine learning can significantly improve the prediction accuracy for heart attacks and strokes, facilitating earlier and more precise interventions. We also discuss the integration of machine learning models into clinical practice, addressing potential challenges and the need for healthcare professionals to interpret and apply these predictions effectively. CONCLUSIONS: The use of machine learning for risk stratification and the identification of modifiable factors may empower preemptive approaches to cardiovascular care, ultimately aiming to reduce the occurrence of life-threatening events and improve long-term patient health trajectories.
Law enforcement recruit fitness: Changes across the fitness spectrum
Authors: Maupin Danny , Canetti Elisa F.D. , Schram Ben , Dulla Joseph M. , Lockie Robert G. , Dawes J. Jay , Orr Robin M.
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND: Law enforcement is a profession of sedentary physical activity interspersed with physically demanding activity that requires high levels of fitness. It is imperative that agencies training law enforcement recruits maximise their fitness during their time at the academy. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate changes in physical fitness during academy training. METHODS: Retrospective data for 10 academy recruit classes, totalling 715 participants, were collected from a US law enforcement agency. The change in performance on two standardised tests were used as outcome measures. Comparisons were made between percentiles utilising one-way ANOVA and a linear mixed model (LMM). RESULTS: Overall, higher percentiles were found to have smaller improvements in physical fitness than lower percentiles. The results of the LMM support this supposition, showing that lower physical fitness scores resulted in greater improvements in a generalised fitness assessment (value = –0.45, standard error 0.02, p < 0.001) and an occupational assessment (value = –0.49, standard error = 0.02, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggest that recruits with lower physical fitness will see greater improvements during academy training. This could be due to a ceiling effect for the more fit but may also be due to recruits of higher physical fitness being under trained during academy. Utilising ability-based training and prescribing an appropriate workload to recruits of higher fitness may improve overall recruit fitness upon graduation.
Connectome-based schizophrenia prediction using structural connectivity - Deep Graph Neural Network(sc-DGNN)
Authors: Udayakumar P. , Subhashini R.
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

Connectome is understanding the complex organization of the human brain’s structural and functional connectivity is essential for gaining insights into cognitive processes and disorders.

OBJECTIVE:

To improve the prediction accuracy of brain disorder issues, the current study investigates dysconnected subnetworks and graph structures associated with schizophrenia.

METHOD:

By using the proposed structural connectivity-deep graph neural network (sc-DGNN) model and compared with machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) models.This work attempts to focus on eighty-eight subjects of diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI), three classical ML, and five DL models.

RESULT:

The structural connectivity-deep graph neural network (sc-DGNN) model is proposed to effectively predict dysconnectedness associated with schizophrenia and exhibits superior performance compared to traditional ML and DL (GNNs) methods in terms of accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, precision, F1-score, and Area under receiver operating characteristic (AUC).

CONCLUSION:

The classification task on schizophrenia using structural connectivity matrices and experimental results showed that linear discriminant analysis (LDA) performed 72% accuracy rate in ML models and sc-DGNN performed at a 93% accuracy rate in DL models to distinguish between schizophrenia and healthy patients.
Analysis of approaches to identification of trend in the structure of the time series
Authors: Mokhnatkina U S. , Parfenov D. V. , Petrusevich D. A.
Published: May 2024

Objectives. The study set out to compare the forecasting quality of time series models that describe the trend in different ways and to form a conclusion about the applicability of each approach in describing the trend depending on the properties of the time series.

Methods. A trend can be thought of as the tendency of a given quantity to increase or decrease over the long term. There is also an approach in which a trend is viewed as some function, reflecting patterns in the behavior of the time series. In this case, we discuss the patterns that characterize the behavior of the series for the entire period under consideration, rather than short-term features. The experimental part involves STL decomposition, construction of ARIMA models (one of the stages of preparation for which includes differentiation, i.e., removal of the trend and transition to a weakly stationary series), construction of ACD models (average conditional displacement) and other approaches. Time-series models based on various trend models are compared with respect to the value of the maximum likelihood function. Many of the combinations have not been constructed before (Fourier series as a trend model, combination of ACD model for trend with seasonal models). Example forecasts of macroeconomic statistics of the Russian Federation and stock prices of Sberbank on the Moscow Exchange in the time range of 2000–2021 are presented.

Results. In the experiments, The LOESS method obtained the best results. A combination of polynomial model for trend description and ARIMA for seasonally description and combination of ACD algorithm for trend and ETS for seasonal model obtained good forecasts in case of seasonal time series, while Fourier time series as a trend model also achieved close quality of prediction.

Conclusions. Since the LOESS method for groups of seasonal and non-seasonal series gives the best results for all indicators, this method can be recommended for obtaining the most accurate results for series of different nature. Trend modeling using Fourier series decomposition leads to quite accurate results for time series of different natures. For seasonal series, one of the best results is given by the combination of modeling a trend on the basis of a polynomial and seasonality in the form of the ARIMA model.
Tunnel Geohazard Evaluation Using Improved Seismic Time-Reversal Mirror
Authors: Chen Lei , Wang Rui , Gong Zhifei , Fu Chao , Xu Xiaobin , Wang Kai , Li Duo , Shao Wei
Published: May 2024

Tunnel geohazard evaluation method is an important method for evaluating the geo-hazard during tunnel construction. The seismic method has become the most widely used approach for understanding the geological conditions ahead of the tunnel face. Limited by the small aperture in the tunnel and the little offset of the observation system, migration methods for imaging geological structures are mainly based on Ray theory without using the dynamic information of reflected waves, resulting in less accurate imaging results. To improve the detection accuracy, the time reversal mirror method was studied and improved for better imaging geological conditions ahead of the tunnel face. Specifically, for the positioning error caused by the traditional time reversal mirror method (based on constant velocity), the parameter of variable velocity was added and optimized for the calculation process. By calculating each velocity value in different propagation paths, the reflected waves can focus on the scattering point with a more accurate location. Based on several typical adverse geology numerical simulations proved that the improved time reverse mirror method can get more accurate imaging results than the traditional method, achieving the position and imaging of fault, fractured zone, etc. Then the improved method has been applied in a water supply project and successfully predicted the distribution of adverse geologies ahead of the tunnel face, which further verified the applicability and effectiveness of the improved time reversal mirror method. This paper provides reference and guidance for similar water diversion projects and tunnel engineering geological detection.
A Partially Buried Shipwreck Site: Implication from the Laoniu Reef Shipwreck No. 2
Authors: Hu Yi , Ding Jianxiang , Liu Boran , Ji Huangyi , Zhang Yaqi , Wang Liming , Fang Xudong
Published: May 2024

Underwater cultural relics are considered to be a scarce and valuable cultural resource. The significance of partially buried underwater cultural relics, which represents a distinct category of underwater cultural relics, has been largely overlooked in previous research. The Laoniu reef shipwreck No. 2, as an example of a partially buried shipwreck, was discovered through the utilization of side-scan sonar, multibeam echosounder and diver verification. In the investigation, multiangle surveys provided evidence to effectively discover this unique site. Beam-focusing technology and high-frequency side-scan sonar with proper distance and angular parameters can help to verify this site further. Given the potential significance of this particular site in relation to environmental transformations and human interventions, it is imperative to consider the insights derived from this case when reevaluating the methodology employed in underwater cultural relic surveys conducted in prospective regions. Consequently, this investigation holds the potential to unveil novel underwater cultural relic sites, thereby presenting a promising avenue for future discoveries.
Research on the Anti-Tumor Mechanism of Artocarpus Lingnanensis Lectin
Authors: Li Lu , Chen Wenya , Li Xiangling , Chen Ben
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate the mechanism of Artocarpus Lingnanensis Lectin (ALL) in inhibiting the growth of tumor cells EL-4. ALL was applied to mouse lymphoma cells EL-4, with PHA (100μg/mL) as a positive control drug. The toxicity of ALL (3.125, 6.25, 12.5, 25, 50, 100, 200μg/mL) on EL-4 cells was evaluated using the CCK-8 assay. Flow cytometry was used to assess the effect of ALL (25, 100 μg/ mL) on apoptosis and cell membrane potential of EL-4 cells. Western blotting was conducted to measure the protein expression levels of BAX, cleaved-Caspase-3, cleaved-Caspase-9, cleaved-PARP1. Fluorescence microscopy was employed to detect the concentration of free calcium ions. Results showed that compared to the control group, ALL had a significant inhibitory effect on EL-4 cells in a dose-dependent manner, with an IC50 value of 105.4μg/mL. Flow cytometry results indicated an increase in apoptosis rate of EL-4 cells with ALL treatment, leading to a higher proportion of depolarized mitochondrial membrane potential. Furthermore, the protein expression levels of BAX, cleaved-Caspase-3, cleaved-Caspase-9, and cleaved-PARP1 were significantly upregulated. In conclusion, ALL can promote apoptosis of EL-4 cells through the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway, inhibit their migration and invasion, and thereby exhibit anti-tumor effects.
Analisis Spasial Ketahanan Pangan di Indonesia Tahun 2022 dengan Model Geographically Weighted Logistic Regression
Authors: Agustinningtyas Diska , Syukri Irfan , Choiri Nisa Gusvia , Cengga Gloria Stephany Haman , Ikhsanudin Muhammad Rafi , Budiasih
Published: May 2024

Krisis pada ketahanan pangan menjadi masalah di berbagai negara termasuk Indonesia. Krisis tersebut penting untuk diperhatikan untuk mewujudkan ketahanan pangan berkelanjutan sesuai dengan tujuan pembangunan berkelanjutan (SDGs) yang kedua yaitu tanpa kelaparan. Tercapainya ketahanan pangan tidak lepas dari pengambilan kebijakan yang sesuai dan tepat sasaran. Pengambilan kebijakan harus didukung oleh informasi ketahanan pangan yang akurat, menyeluruh, dan sistematis. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengklasifikasikan kabupaten/kota di Indonesia menjadi wilayah tahan pangan dan rawan pangan serta menganalisis faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi status ketahanan pangan tersebut. Data dianalisis secara deskriptif dan inferensia di mana clustering dengan metode k-means untuk klasifikasi status ketahanan pangan dan pemodelan Geographically Weighted Logistic Regression (GWLR) dengan penimbang fungsi kernel Adaptive Gaussian yang memberikan model terbaik dengan Akaike Information Criterion corrected (AICc) terkecil dibandingkan kernel lainnya untuk melihat pengaruh spasial dalam menentukan kondisi ketahanan pangan suatu kabupaten/kota. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pada tahun 2022 terdapat 388 kabupaten/kota dengan status tahan pangan dan 126 kabupaten/kota berstatus tidak tahan pangan. Selain itu, dari 9 variabel yang digunakan dalam clustering, terdapat 5 variabel yang digunakan dalam pemodelan GWLR. Tiga variabel di antaranya signifikan di semua daerah di Indonesia, sedangkan satu variabel signifikan secara lokal di beberapa daerah.