bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Occurrence of Antimicrobial Resistant Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus sp. in Faecal Samples of Wild Birds
Authors: Raghav Harshita , Jadav Kajal , Jogi Joycee , Yadav Uttam , Rajput Nidhi
Published: February 2022

Background: Microbial resistance to antibiotics is a worldwide problem in human and veterinary medicine. The principal risk factor for an increase in this situation is the extensive use of antibiotics leading to the dissemination of resistant bacteria and resistance genes. Bacteria from Wild birds are important with regard to antibiotic resistance due to diverse ecology and as reservoir of antibiotic resistant bacterial genes and potential spreaders. Methods: In the present study, a total of total 75 faecal swabs from captive and free ranging wild birds were obtained for isolation and identification of E. coli and Staphylococcus sp. They were detected for presence of antimicrobial resistant drugs, six each, by using standard kirby- beaur disc diffusion test. Result: Isolation rate of E coli and Staphylococcus sp. was 77% each respectively. Antimicrobial susceptibility profile revealed resistance in E. coli was 25% and in Staphylococcus sp. 10%. Most resistant antimicrobial in E. coli and Staphylococcus sp. was Cotrimoxazole (22%) and Clindamycin (8.6%) respectively. Presence of resistance in wild birds’ species is an alarming situation as these are capable to transmitting resistant gene either vertically or horizontally. Regulating the usage of Antimicrobials in livestock and humans is the need of the hour.
Using Telehealth to Deliver Cognitive Behavioral Treatment of Insomnia to a Caregiver of a Person With Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Roth Alicia J. , Curtis Ashley F. , Rowe Meredeth A. , McCrae Christina S.
Published: February 2022

Cognitive behavioral therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is the gold standard treatment for insomnia. There is limited access to qualified providers to deliver CBT-I; moreover, there are patient populations who struggle with access to insomnia care due to limited time and resources. This includes caregivers for persons with Alzheimer’s disease, for whom sleep disturbance is a common concern. Utilizing telehealth to deliver CBT-I may be particularly important for vulnerable populations such as caregivers of persons with dementia, as it can offer an accessible, safe, and cost-effective treatment option that can be tailored to meet the needs of a specific population. This case study illustrates the successful implementation of a four-session CBT-I protocol through telehealth with a caregiver of a person with Alzheimer’s disease. Given the success of this case and the conditions for psychological care the recent pandemic has created, continued research into the efficacy of sleep-related interventions through telehealth is warranted.
Un soñador intrépido en los Andes
Authors: Cáceres Álvarez Luis , Cáceres Álvarez Luis
Published: February 2022

LA COSMOVISIÓN ESTÁ PRESENTE EN EL LENGUAJE, EN LOS SONIDOS Y EN EL PAISAJE. POR ELLO, JERO GONZALES HA RECORRIDO EL NEVADO AUSANGATE DURANTE LA FESTIVIDAD DEL SEÑOR DE QOYLLUR RIT’I, EN EL CUSCO, ACOMPAÑADO DE UNA CÁMARA DE GRAN FORMATO (4×5”) PARA MOSTRAR LOS ROSTROS DE DIVERSOS PUNTOS DEL PERÚ. ¿CÓMO SE LOGRA RECORRER UN MISMO CAMINO DE FE Y ESPERANZA A TRAVÉS DE LA FOTOGRAFÍA?
El perú profundo
Authors: Cáceres Álvarez Luis
Published: February 2022

Una mujer hilando en las alturas de Huancavelica carga a un bebe en su espalda, quien observa directamente la lente de Teófilo Hinostroza (Colcabamba, 1914 - Huancayo, 1991), como asomándose con cierta curiosidad.
Hereditary Hemochromatosis (Clinical case)
Authors: Sousa Bruno , Tavares Nelson
Published: February 2022

A sixty-eight-year-old retired man was sent for Nutrition Consultation by his family doctor due to hereditary hemochromatosis (homozygosity H63D) and other pathologies that require nutritional therapy. He was also sent to a Transfusion Medicine and Rheumatology Consultation. Keywords: hereditary hemochromatosis, excess iron absorption, organ and tissue damage
El peso de lo que no se mide. Principales factores subyacentes en el Índice de Desigualdad de Género del PNUD
Authors: Zamora Torres América Ivonne , Marín Leyva René Augusto , Díaz Barajas Yesica
Published: February 2022

En la actualidad siguen existiendo importantes desigualdades en las condiciones en las que viven y se desenvuelven los hombres y las mujeres en la mayoría de los países del mundo, que en su conjunto constituyen importantes brechas de género en diversos ámbitos, las cuales impiden a las naciones beneficiarse del máximo potencial de ambos géneros en sus procesos de desarrollo. El objetivo de este trabajo es identificar a través de la generación de evidencia empírica, los factores que impactan en la desigualdad de género de 161 países para el año 2020, integrando dimensiones a la propuesta del Índice de Desigualdad de Género (IDG) desarrollada por el Programa de las Naciones unidas para el Desarrollo (PNUD), lo cual permitiría abordar la problemática de una manera más integral. Para realizar este trabajo seutilizó un método de análisis factorial de tipo comprobatorio, considerando las variables que actualmente integran las tres dimensiones del IDG 2020, encontrándose -en concordancia con la teoría analizada- el rol de género femenino como primer factor subyacente, que enmarca a las mujeres como principales responsables del ámbito reproductivo y del hogar, actuando como una primera forma de exclusión que les impide incorporarse en la esfera social, productiva y política con las mismas condiciones de libertades y oportunidades que los hombres.
La ideología de la “ideología de género”. Comprendiendo una reacción conservadora
Authors: Verbal Valentina
Published: February 2022

Desde hace algunos años, el mundo viene siendo testigo de la reemergencia de una extrema derecha en Occidente, que puede caracterizarse como una reacción conservadora en contra de la inmigración, de algunas políticas de protección medioambiental, de la llamada “corrección política”, y en particular de lo que denomina “ideología de género”. Este trabajo apunta a caracterizar el último de estos fenómenos, que puede sintetizarse en el fuerte rechazo de esa nueva derecha al feminismo y al reconocimiento de las personas LGBTIQ+. ¿Cuáles son los argumentos que están detrás de ese rechazo? ¿De qué forma son planteadosestos argumentos? Al pasar revista a tres fuentes que, en el contexto de Latinoamérica, han denunciado lo que ellas designan como ideología de género, la autora de este artículo sostiene que, en definitiva, esos argumentos presuponen una concepción conservadora o esencialista de la sexualidad humana.
Modeling of the intercivilization fault effect on the conflict intensity throughout the world
Authors: Zgurovsky Michael , Kravchenko Maryna , Pyshnograiev Ivan , Perestyuk Maria
Published: February 2022

Using the mathematical apparatus of the multifactor regression analysis, the concept of faults between civilizations is verified, formalized and refined. The ethnocultural civilizational distribution of the countries is specified on the basis of the fuzzy cluster method. The mathematical model of fault lines between civilizations is elaborated, which affords the opportunity to estimate and analyze the quantitative values of these faults. Formally, the developed model offers the way to determine evolutionary regularities, systematize and econometrically verify the defining characteristics of actual civilizational clashes. The results of an analysis and comparison of modeling data of intercivilizational faults in 2008 and 2018 revealed the tendencies of individual civilizations to unite and clash, and the effect of these faults on the global conflict as well. The dependence of global threats on the proliferation of weapons and their individual components is assessed. The conflict effect on the socio-economic indicators of clashing civilizations is determined. The correspondence of the modeling outcomes to the real state of intercivilizational faults is verified by comparison with actual historical data. The results of the study encourage to form a comprehensive vision of the nature of modern clashes, whose emergence is caused by the faults between civilizations, and to determine their formal characteristics and regularities of their course.
Information technology for creating intelligent computer programs for training in algorithmic tasks. Part 1: Mathematical foundations
Authors: Kulik Anatoliy , Chukhray Andrey , Havrylenko Olena
Published: February 2022

The existing education system (in particular higher education) due to its focus on basic knowledge is quite inert and cannot satisfy the needs of the modern labor market, which is rapidly developing. Some professions transform or disappear, while the others appear almost every day. Today the employers need specialists with certain skills and abilities, who are able to develop them and adapt to specific projects. That is why short-term courses are very popular today, especially online and with a mentor — a specialist in a particular field. At the same time, graduates of such courses are mostly unable to solve complex problems and make competent decisions on their own. There is a requirement of creation of training programs for testing the development and implementation of tools for productive knowledge and skills transferring in a particular field. The article shows a possible approach to provide some interactivity to computer tutoring tools in addition to the game principle, information visualization and other techniques that have already proven themselves in information systems. It will give an opportunity to create a platform that can accumulate new technologies, integrating them into a digital tutoring environment that can be adapted to each student.
Research of intelligent methods of software testing
Authors: Kazimov Tofig , Bayramova Tamilla , Malikova Nazakat
Published: February 2022

This article presents the examination of several techniques and tools used in the automated software testing process. Considering the ever-growing importance of software testing, several possible implications of implementation of artificial intelligence into this area are also discussed. The main objective of this study is to examine the field of test automation by categorising related test activities, to which artificial intelligence tools can be applied for increased efficiency, and evaluate the impact of the application. The main software testing methods are white-box, black-box, and grey-box methods; an effort has been made to determine a connection between the given testing methods and artificial intelligence methods. A brief summary of several artificial intelligence engine tools used to automate testing was also provided. Lastly, the possible future benefits from usage of AI in software testing was investigated.
Morphological model for underground crossings of water objects
Authors: Pankratova Nataliia , Haiko Hennadii , Savchenko Illia
Published: February 2022

The construction of morphological model is considered for undesirable events regarding urban objects, as well as the consequences of such events, including interruption of operation, feasibility and time of restoration, material damage and casualties, ecological risks. Using this model, two-stage modified morphological analysis was conducted for two types of objects: pipe and tunnel depressed sewers. The results of comparison for depressed sewer crossings using the developed model are demonstrated both for the whole multitude of potential undesirable events and for the specific scenarios of sabotage, landslide, operational damage. The advantage of a tunneled depressed sewer over a pipe one is justified from the standpoint of minimization of technogenic and ecological risks of sewage draining.
Application of two-sided approximations method to solution of first boundary value problem for one-dimensional nonlinear heat conductivity equation
Authors: Gybkina Nadiia , Sidorov Maxim , Vasylyshyn Kostiantyn
Published: February 2022

The first boundary value problem for a one-dimensional nonlinear heat equation is considered, where the heat conductivity coefficient and the power function of heat sources have a power-law dependence on temperature. For a numerical analysis of this problem, it is proposed to use the method of two-sided approximations based on the method of Green’s functions. After replacing the unknown function, the boundary value problem is reduced to the Hammerstein integral equation, which is considered as a nonlinear operator equation in a semi-ordered Banach space. The conditions for the existence of a single positive solution of the problem and the conditions for two-sided convergence of successive approximations to it are obtained. The developed method is programmatically implemented and researched in solving test problems. The results of the computational experiment are illustrated by graphical and tabular information. The conducted experiments confirmed the efficiency and effectiveness of the developed method that allowed recommending its practical use for solving problems of system analysis and mathematical modeling of nonlinear processes.
SUSTAINABLE BEST PRACTICES OF EUROPEAN CULINARY FESTIVALS
Authors: Csapody Bence , Ásványi Katalin , Jászberényi Melinda
Published: February 2022

Purpose – The COVID-19 pandemic has a major impact on the operation of hospitality establishments today. Conscious entrepreneurs have exploited this critical situation to carry out self-revision and examined the opportunities to open towards new models. But what is the situation with culinary events? The period of recovery after a crisis often shifts in a new direction of operation such as the emergence of sustainable approaches in gastronomy and tourism. In order to showcase exemplary methods, our main research question is “what sustainable practices are applied in European culinary festivals”? Methodology – The following study is primarily based on the identification of best practices from European gastronomic festivals. Using benchmarking methodology is a complex, systematic process including the creation of new standards in order to provide ideas for event organizers to make their festivals more sustainable. Findings – The results were allocated within four dimensions (ingredients and food served; organization; communication and programs; local communities and culture), assigning each practice to specific aspects by dimension. Based on the results, we can state that “local thinking” appears across the dimensions in exemplary practices, regarding the culture of settlements hosting the festivals as well as the procurement of ingredients. Moreover, in connection with the social pillar of sustainability, while promoting local family businesses, the transfer and preservation of local culture by the festivals must also play a key role. Contribution – We were seeking functional implementation ideas that can help strengthen sustainable gastronomic tourism in the post-crisis recovery period. Our goal is to detect and showcase these examples and raise the awareness of event organizers.
BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN TOURISM VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT PRACTICE IN CROATIA: A VOCATIONAL TEACHERS’ PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Kesar Oliver , Ferjanić Hodak Danijela , Roginić Ema
Published: February 2022

Purpose – The main purpose of this research was to analyze the position of vocational education in Croatia from the perspective of tourism high school teaching staff. The main objective was to propose state regulations to limit the access of non-professionals to specialized jobs in tourism, and to enhance the status of tourism vocational education. Methodology – Desk research was focused on the analysis of available body of knowledge related to tourism employment and tourism education. A structured questionnaire was used to collect primary data. The research sample included 104 tourism high school vocational teachers in Croatia. Descriptive statistics were used for data evaluation. Findings – Although Croatia heavily relies on the economic benefits from tourism, its performance is often diminished due to a labor market mismatch in terms of specialization, knowledge and skills. This research determined that Croatia has a well-established and prospective high school education system for tourism, but lacks of image among employers and young generations. The state market regulation of tourism employment and the improvement of 'dual education system' of tourism education were strongly supported by respondents. Contribution – The theoretical contribution of this research is to determine long-term gaps in matching tourism education outcomes and tourism employment practices. Empirical contribution is derived from the analysis of attitudes and perception of tourism high school teaching staff on how to improve tourism education and employment practice. Practical contribution is in providing empirically proved policy recommendations, while social contribution can be recognized in promoting tourism vocational education and professionalism to young generations.
MARKETING OF RIJEKA MUSEUMS: CURRENT PRACTICES AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS
Authors: Ozretić Došen Đurđana , Cvetinović Emanuela , Komarac Tanja
Published: February 2022

Purpose – The paper is dedicated to the marketing of Rijeka museums. It presents the research that encompassed a) museum professionals’ marketing knowledge and skills and their implementation in practice b) core and additional services offered by museums c) museum professionals’ opinions and attitudes about the new trends in museum marketing. Methodology – Exploratory research was conducted. Data for the theoretical foundations were collected from secondary scientific sources and by searching the websites, social networks, and promotional materials. Qualitative research in the form of in-depth, semi-structured personal interviews with key informants was performed to collect primary data. Findings – The level of familiarity with the services marketing in Rijeka museums was low, pointing to a lack of marketing professionals. Nevertheless, the need for marketing was recognised, and museums were striving to implement some generic marketing activities. The core services (exhibitions and/or collections of materials) showed predominant product orientation, with insufficient orientation on a visitor. Opinions and attitudes of interviewees on museum marketing trends were positive. However, museums could not include new content despite wishes due to the lack of capacity. Furthermore, the legal frame prevented expanding the offer of a souvenir shop. Contribution – Although the research was conducted before the onset of the pandemic, the paper provides theoretical insights and practical suggestions, which could help academics and professionals to understand better and deal with the potential opportunities and threats in museum marketing in the dramatically changing environmentns.
MOTIVATION-BASED IDENTITY OF ISLAND DESTINATIONS AND TOURIST SATISFACTION: THE CASE OF CROATIA
Authors: Škravan Antonia , Bašan Lorena , Kapeš Jelena , Prižmić Ivana , Franulović Marino
Published: February 2022

Purpose – This study focuses on common identity attributes of Croatian island destinations based on pull travel motivators. Its main purpose is to determine the significance of the gaps between the importance and performance of these attributes, as well as to examine their influence on overall satisfaction and destination brand loyalty. Methodology – The survey was conducted in Croatia in 2020, using two interrelated questionnaires designed for two target groups, domestic tourists and Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) managers. A total of 116 valid questionnaires were collected from tourists and 6, from the DMOs of all coastal counties. Importance-performance analysis (IPA) was applied, followed by a paired sample t-test and simple linear regression analysis. Findings – The IPA results show a negative and statistically significant difference between the importance and performance of natural and cultural attributes, making them the key points of future interest for DMO managers. The regression analysis results show a statistically significant and positive influence of all island destination attributes on overall satisfaction, and the significant positive influence of satisfaction on destination brand loyalty. Contribution – The research provides evidence on satisfaction and loyalty concerning the main motivation-based identity attributes of island destinations. The results can help DMO managers to reallocate marketing efforts from low- to high-impact areas to achieve satisfaction and brand loyalty. The findings can also help reinforce the collaborative marketing activities of Croatian island destinations based on common identity attributes.
Stray Light Correction Algorithm For High Performance Optical Instruments: The Case Of Metop-3MI
Authors: Clermont Lionel , Michel Céline , Stockman Yvan
Published: February 2022

Stray light is a critical aspect for high performance optical instruments. When stray light control by design is insufficient to reach the performance requirement, correction by post-processing must be considered. This situation is encountered for example in the case of the Earth observation in-strument 3MI, whose stray light properties are complex due to the presence of many ghosts dis-tributed on the detector array. We implement an iterative correction method and discuss its con-vergence properties. Spatial and field binning can be employed to reduce the computation time but at the cost of a decreased performance. Interpolation of the stray light properties is required to achieve high performance correction. For that, two methods are proposed and tested. The first interpolate the stray light in the field domain while the second applies a scaling operation based on a local symmetry assumption. Ultimately, the scaling method is selected and a stray light reduction by a factor of 58 is obtained at 2σ (129 at 1σ) for an extended scene illumination.
Investigation of Elastic Properties of WO3 Thin Films Supported on Quartz in SAW Sensing Devices
Authors: Arab Madjid , Madigou Véronique , Chevallier Virginie , Turquat Christian , Leroux Christine
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to discuss the combined theoretical and experimental results of elastic properties of the tungsten trioxide films supported on Quartz (YX)/45°/10° resonator, as surface acoustic wave (SAW) device. The SAW system with different thicknesses of WO3 thin films were imaged and structurally characterized by X-Ray diffraction, atomic force and transmission electron microscopy. The deposited WO3 films (100 nm, 200 nm and 300 nm) were crystallized in a single monoclinic phase. The acoustoelectric properties of the SAW system were obtained by combining theoretical simulations with experimental measurements. The modeling of the SAW devices has been performed by the finite element and boundary element methods (FEM/BEM). The theoretical and experimental electrical admittances responses obtained at room temperature gave access to elastic constants. The gravimetric effect of the deposited layers is observed by a resonance frequencies shift to lower values with thicknesses film. Moreover, the acoustic losses are affected by the dielectric losses of the WO3 films, while the resonant frequency decreases almost linearly. SAW devices revealed strong displacement fields with low acoustic losses as a function of WO3 thicknesses. For all the deposited layers, the Young's modulus and the Poisson coefficient obtained are respectively of 8 GPa and 0.5.
Powder Mixture for the Production of Microporous Ceramics Based on Hydroxyapatite
Authors: Safronova Tatiana V. , Chichulin Stepan , Shatalova Tatiana B. , Filippov Yaroslav Yu.
Published: February 2022

Powder mixture with given molar ratio Ca/P = 1.67 consisting of brushite (calcium hydrophosphate dihydrate) CaHPO4·2H2O, calcium oxalate monohydrate CaC2O4·H2O in form of whewellite and weddellite and some quantity of quasi-amorphous phase was obtained as a result of the interaction of hydroxyapatite powder Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2 with an aqueous solution of oxalic acid H2C2O4 at a molar ratio of Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2/H2C2O4 = 1:4 under mechanical activation conditions. This powder mixture was used to produce microporous monophase ceramics based on hydroxyapatite Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2 with aperient density of 1.25 g/cm3 after firing at 1200 oC. Microporosity of sintered ceramics was formed due to presence of particles with plate-like morphology, restraining shrinkage during sintering. Microporous ceramics based on hydroxyapatite Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2 with roughness of the surface as a consequence of the created microporosity can be recommended as a biocompatible material for the bone defects treatment and as a substrate for bone cell cultivation.
A Novel Network Science and Similarity Searching-Based Approach for Discovering Potential Tumor Homing Peptides from Antimicrobials
Authors: Romero Maylin , Marrero-Ponce Yovani , Rodríguez Hortensia , Agüero-Chapin Guillermin , Antunes Agostinho , Aguilera-Mendoza Longendri , Martinez-Rios Felix
Published: February 2022

Peptide-based drugs are promising anticancer candidates due to their biocompatibility, and low toxicity. Particularly, tumor homing peptides (THPs) have the ability to bind specifically to can-cer cells receptors and tumor vasculature. Despite their potential to develop antitumor drugs, there are few available prediction tools to assist the discovery of new THPs. Two webservers based on machine learning models are currently active, the TumorHPD (https://webs.iiitd.edu.in/raghava/tumorhpd) and the THPep (http://codes.bio/thpep), and more recently the SCMTHP (SCMTHP (pmlabstack.pythonanywhere.com), based on scoring card method. Herein, a novel method based on network science and similarity searching implemented in the starPep toolbox (http://mobiosd-hub.com/starpep/) is presented for THPs discovery. The approach leverages from exploring the structural space of THPs with Chemical Space Networks (CSNs) and from applying centrality measures to identify the most relevant and non-redundant THPs sequences within the CSN. Such THPs were considered as queries (Qs) for multi-query similarity searches that applies a group fusion (MAX-SIM rule) model. The resulting multi-query similarity searching models (SSMs) were validated with three benchmarking datasets of THPs/non-THPs. Predictions achieved accuracies ranged from 92.64 to 99.18% and Matthews Correlation Coefficients between 0.894-0.98, outperforming state-of-the-art predictors. The best model was applied to repurpose AMPs from the starPep database as THPs, which were subse-quently optimized for the TH activity. Finally, 54 promising THP leads were discovered, and their sequences were analyzed to encounter novel motifs. These results demonstrate the potential of CSNs and multi-query similarity searching for a rapid and accurate identification of THPs.
New Targeted Therapies and Combinations of Treatments for Cervical, Endometrial and Ovarian Cancers: A Year in Review
Authors: Dragomir Adelina Silvana , Dumitrescu Elena Adriana , Komporaly Isabela Anda , Mihăilă Raluca Ioana , Lungulescu Cristian Virgil , Stănculeanu Dana Lucia
Published: February 2022

This review of the meaningful data from 2021 on cervical, endometrial, and ovarian cancers aims to provide an update of the most clinically relevant studies presented at important oncologic congresses during the year [the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting, the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Congress and the Society of Gynecologic Oncology (SGO) Annual Meeting]. Despite the underlying existence of the COVID-19 pandemic, the last year has been notable in terms of research, with significant and promising advances in gynecologic malignancies. Several major studies reporting the effects of innovative therapies for patients with cervical, endometrial, and ovarian cancers might change the medical practice in the future.
Study of Variational Inference for Flexible Distributed Probabilistic Robotics
Authors: Damgaard Malte Rørmose , Pedersen Rasmus , Bak Thomas
Published: February 2022

By combining stochastic variational inference with message passing algorithms we show how to solve the highly complex problem of navigation and avoidance in distributed multi-robot systems in a computationally tractable manner, allowing online implementation. Subsequently, the proposed variational method lends itself to more flexible solutions than prior methodologies. Furthermore, the derived method is verified both through simulations with multiple mobile robots and a real world experiment with two mobile robots. In both cases the robots shares the operating space and needs to cross each other’s paths multiple times without colliding.
Measurement invariance of the Nine-Item Internet Gaming Disorder Scale (IGDS9-SF) Across Siri Lanka, Turkey, Australia, and the USA
Authors: Ali Amira Mohammed , Al-Amer Rasmieh , Atout Maha , Abuhammad Sawsan , Ali Tazeen Saeed , Mansour Ayman M. Hamdan , Khatatbeh Haitham , Alkhamees Abdulmajeed A. , Hendawy Amin Omar
Published: February 2022

The prevalence of internet gaming disorders (IGD) is considerably high among youth, especially with social isolation imposed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. IGD adversely affects mental health, quality of life, and academic performance. The Internet Gaming Disorder Scale (IGDS9-SF) is designed to detect IGD according to DSM-IV diagnostic criteria. However, inconsistent results are reported on its capacity to diagnose IGD evenly across different cultures. To ensure the suitability of the IGDS9-SF as a global measure of IGD, this study examined the psychometric properties of the IGDS9-SF in a sample of Sri Lankan university students (N = 322, mean age =17.2 ± 0.6, range = 16-18 years, 56.5% males) and evaluated its measurement invariance across samples from Sri Lanka, Turkey, Australia, and the USA. Among Sri Lankan students, a unidimensional structure expressed good fit, invariance across different groups (gender, ethnicity, income, etc.), adequate criterion validity (strong correlation with motives of internet gaming, daily gaming duration, and sleep quality), and good reliability (alpha = 0.81). Males and online multiplayers expressed higher IGD levels, greater time spent gaming, and more endorsement of gaming motives (e.g., Social and Coping) than females and offline players. Across countries, the IGDS9-SF was invariant at the configural, metric, and scalar levels, albeit strict invariance was not maintained. The lowest and highest IGD levels were reported among Turkish and American respondents, respectively. In conclusion, the IGDS9-SF can be reliably used to measure IGD among Sri Lankan youth. Because the scale holds scalar invariance across countries, its scores can be used to compare IGD levels in the studied countries.
Calculation of the Higgs Mass for Quark and Lepton Electric Charges Swap Lie-Groupoid
Authors: Koorambas Elias
Published: February 2022

Starting from the SU(2) group of weak interactions in the presence of Electric Charge Swap (ECS) symmetry, we show that ordinary and non-regular (ECS) leptons are related by the ECS rotational group SO(3). We find that many Standard Model (SM) algebras depend on the sin of the angle θs of the ECS rotational group SO (3). We call these ECSM algebras. Furthermore, the break of the gauge symmetry of the SM groupoid gives the massive ECS particle. We find that the ECS particle masses are related with the SM particle masses by sinθs . We also investigate the finite subgroups of the ECS Möbius transformations. We find that sinθs could be derived from the ECS dihedral group DF, which refers to the symmetry of the fermionic polygon (F-gon). The average value of the anchor of the SM algebroid depends on the fermionic Catalan numbers (CF). Finally, we find that the ECS physics at loop level differs the SM physics. The ECSM mass is suppressed by the CF numbers. For 24 fermions, the calculated one-loop radiative correction to the bare Higgs mass µ is 125,6 GeV—a value very close to the experimental one.
Perkembangan Agribisnis Teh Selama Pandemi Covid – 19 di PTPN VIII Kebun Kertamanah, Pangalengan, Jawa Barat
Authors: Maurizky Diva , Ernah Ernah
Published: February 2022

PTPN VIII Kebun Kertamanah merupakan perusahaan negara yang berada di bawah naungan Kementerian BUMN yang bergerak pada produksi tanaman teh yang memiliki reputasi yang baik di Jawa Barat. Akan tetapi hasil produksi teh nasional cenderung menurun beberapa tahun terakhir serta diperkeruh dengan adanya pandemi Covid – 19 yang turut berdampak pada sektor perkebunan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui keragaan agribisnis teh, mengetahui faktor internal dan eksternal pada perusahaan, serta menentukan strategi pengembangan agribisnis teh yang tepat. Desain penelitian ini adalah kualitatif dengan teknik penelitian studi kasus. Metode pengumpulan data yang digunakan ialah wawancara, observasi, dan studi literatur. Dalam menjelaskan keragaan agribisnis dilakukan secara deskriptif, sedangkan dalam menentukan strategi pengembangan yang tepat, digunakan analisis matriks IFAS, EFAS, IE, dan SWOT. Berdasarkan penguraian data secara deskriptif, subsistem pengadaan input produksi mendukung berjalannya subsistem produksi / budidaya dan subsistem pengolahan, selanjutnya kedua subsistem tersebut mendukung berjalannya subsistem pemasaran. Kelancaran kegiatan seluruh subsistem ditunjang oleh beberapa lembaga penunjang. Berdasarkan hasil analisis SWOT diperoleh sembilan alternatif strategi sebagai berikut : (1) Mempertahankan kinerja dan kualitas, (2) Membuka lapangan kerja, (3) Melakukan inovasi, (4) Memaksimalkan penggunaan teknologi, (5) Memaksimalkan aset perusahaan, (6) Bekerjasama dengan aparatur pemerintahan dan lembaga penyuluh, (7) Melakukan perencanaan dengan lebih mendetail, (8) Memanfaatkan program pabrik unggulan, dan (9) Meningkatkan promosi sekaligus edukasi yang menarik.
Analisis Prospektif Peremajaan Kelapa Sawit (Elaeis Guineensis Jacq) Pola Swadaya di Kabupaten Rokan Hulu
Authors: Gurusinga Andy Utomo , Dewi Novia , Rosnita Rosnita
Published: February 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis usahtani kelapa sawit pola swadaya serta menentukan atribut kunci dalam peremajaan perkebunan kelapa sawit pola swadaya dan  implikasi peremajaan kelapa sawit pola swadaya di Kabupaten Rokan Hulu. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan di tiga kecamatan pada Kabupaten Rokan Hulu Provinsi Riau. Ketiga kecamatan tersebut yaitu Kecamatan Rambah Samo, Rambah Hilir, dan Kepenuhan Hulu. Pengambilan sampel areal yang representatif yaitu dengan cara menggunakan Multistage Area Sampling terdiri dari 9 desa dengan sampel sebanyak 90 petani kelapa sawit. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukan usahatani kelapa sawit swadaya di Rokan Hulu memiliki nilai RCR > 1 artinya usahatani kelapa sawit di Rokan Hulu layak untuk diusahakan. Nilai RCR usahatani kelapa sawit di Rokan Hulu adalah 1,57 dan atribut penentu bagi sikap petani dalam mendukung  kegiatan peremajaan kelapa sawit terdiri dari kegiatan perbankan, anggota koprasi dan teknis budidaya. Atribut-atribut ini mempunyai pengaruh kuat terhadap sikap petani serta adanya iplikasi pengembangan peremajaan kelapa sawit pola swadaya pada penelitian ini yaitu perbaikan pada komponen atribut SDM, kemudahan penjualan hasil, modal dan legalitas. Hal ini berlaku sebagai bahan pertimbangan bagi petani sendiri.
Serum Periostin Level Reflects Progression of Ossification of the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament
Authors: Kawaguchi Yoshiharu , Kitajima Isao , Yasuda Taketoshi , Seki Shoji , Suzuki Kayo , Makino Hiroto , Ujihara Yasuhiro , Ueno Tomohiro , Canh Tung Nguyen Tran , Yahara Yasuhito
Published: February 2022

Background:

Ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL), characterized by ectopic new bone formation in the spinal ligament, causes neurological impairment due to narrowing of the spinal canal. However, the etiology has not been fully elucidated yet. Several biomarkers may be related to the pathogenesis of OPLL. The present study focused on the serum level of periostin, which is recognized as an important bone formation regulator.

Methods:

This study included 92 patients with OPLL and 54 control patients without OPLL. For the case-control analysis, 54 age and sex-matched patients were randomly included in the OPLL group. The serum fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23), creatinine, inorganic phosphate, calcium, alkaline phosphatase, and periostin levels were assessed. Furthermore, the calcium, creatinine, and inorganic phosphate levels in urine and the percentage of tubular reabsorption of phosphate were also analyzed. Moreover, the relationship between the biomarkers and the extent of OPLL was analyzed. The data were compared between patients with OPLL progression (the progression group) and without OPLL progression (the non-progression group).

Results:

The mean serum FGF-23 and periostin levels in the OPLL group were higher than that in the control group. The serum inorganic phosphate level in the OPLL group was lower than that in the control group. No correlation was found between any of the biomarkers and the extent of ossification. The serum periostin level in the progression group was higher than that in the non-progression group. No significant difference in the serum FGF-23 level was noted between the progression and non-progression groups. Moreover, no correlation was found between serum periostin and FGF-23 levels.

Conclusions:

The serum periostin level is related to OPLL progression.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
A Comparison of Clinical Outcomes and Implant Preference of Patients with Bilateral TKA
Authors: Schroeder Lennart , Dunaway Andrew , Dunaway Daniel
Published: February 2022

Background:

The purpose of this retrospective study was to compare clinical outcome results, perceived function, and overall preference among patients who had undergone staged bilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with a cruciate-retaining, customized implant (customized TKA, or C-TKA) in 1 knee and an off-the-shelf (OTS) implant in the contralateral knee.

Methods:

Forty-seven patients (94 knees) from a single study center who underwent C-TKA in 1 knee and had previously undergone TKA with an OTS implant in the contralateral knee were included in this study. As the primary outcome measures, the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, Joint Replacement (KOOS, JR) and the Forgotten Joint Score (FJS) were self-administered by the study subjects at a single follow-up time point. Additionally, a follow-up questionnaire to compare patients’ perceived joint stability, knee mobility, perceived feeling of the replaced joint, pain levels, and overall preference between their knees was administered.

Results:

The average follow-up was 2.3 years (range, 0.7 to 3.8 years) for C-TKA and 6.7 years (range, 1.6 to 11.1 years) for the OTS TKA. Significantly higher KOOS, JR (82 versus 77; p = 0.03) and FJS (68 versus 58; p = 0.04) results were found with C-TKA. The evaluation of the follow-up questionnaire showed that more patients reported having “a little” or “a lot” less pain (49% versus 15%), better perceived mobility (45% versus 12%) and stability (36% versus 13%), and a more “normal” feeling of their knee (60% versus 10%) with the C-TKA implant compared with their OTS counterpart. When patients were asked to directly compare their knees, we found that 72.3% of the patients preferred the knee that received C-TKA over the contralateral OTS knee replacement, with 21.3% seeing no difference and 6.4% preferring the OTS knee replacement.

Conclusions:

We believe that this is the first study to examine patient-reported outcomes of customized and OTS TKA implant designs in the same patient. We conclude that patients in this study cohort who underwent staged bilateral TKA with a C-TKA implant in 1 knee and an OTS prosthesis in the other knee reported better for their patient-specific knee replacement, with higher FJS and KOOS, JR values, and overall, preferred the C-TKA knee more often compared with the OTS knee replacement.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Membuat Peta Tanah dengan Teknik Disagregasi Spasial
Authors: Sulaeman Yiyi , Husnain Husnain
Published: February 2022

Peta tanah merupakan informasi spasial dasar untuk perencanaan dan praktek pengelolaan lahan dan lingkungan. Informasi spasial tanah yang detil, terkini, dan kontekstual diperlukan dalam waktu yang tepat yang dapat disediakan melalui penerapan pendekatan digital soil mapping (DSM) berdasarkan data tanah warisan.  Pemanfaatan teknologi DSM perlu disesaikan dengan kondisi infrastruktur data setempat. Tulisan ini membahas tentang teknik disagregasi spasial untuk membuat peta tanah dan mengevaluasi tantangan penerapannya di Indonesia. DSM merupakan subdisiplin ilmu tanah yang paling aktif menghasilkan produk riset. Salahsatu teknik DSM yang diterapkan diberbagai tempat adalah teknik Disagregasi Spasial. Teknik ini bekerja di wilayah yang mempunyai peta tanah baik meliputi seluruh wilayah atau sebagiannya dan memisahkan sub-sub poligon suatu satuan peta tanah menjadi bagian-bagian yang lebih detil. Aneka algoritma disagregasi spasial sudah banyak dikembangkan dan bemanfaat digunakan di wilayah Indonesia khususnya untuk pendetilan peta, penyelerasan batas peta, dan pembuatan peta di wilayah baru menggunakan hubungan tanah-lanskap dari wilayah lain. Aneka alat bantu dikembangkan yang dapat mempercepat dan mempermudah implementasi disagregasi spasial di lapangan. Kasus-kasus terpilih juga disajikan dan didiskusikan. Dengan meningkatkan kapasitas dan penelitian, implementasi teknik akan menyediakan algotiruma yang lebih jitu yang pada saat bersamaan menambah informasi spasial tanah.  
An Artificial Neural Network Developed in MATLAB-Simulink for Reconstruction a Distorted Secondary Current Waveform. Part 2
Authors: Rumiantsev Yu. V. , Romaniuk F. A.
Published: February 2022

Recently, there has been an increased interest in the use of artificial neural networks in various branches of the electric power industry including relay protection. The operation of the traditional microprocessor-based relay protection device is based on calculation the RMS values of the monitored current and voltage signals and its comparison with the predetermined thresholds. However, calculated RMS values often do not reflect the real processes occurring in the electrical equipment under protection due to, for example, current transformer saturation. In this case secondary current has a characteristic distorted waveform, which is significantly differs from its ideal (true) waveform. This causes underestimation of the calculated RMS value of the secondary current compared to its true value; also, it causes a trip time delay or even to a relay protection devices operation failure. In this regard, one of the perspective applications of the artificial neural network for the relay protection purposes is the current transformer distorted secondary current waveform restoration due to its saturation. The article describes in detail the stages of the practical implementation of the artificial neural networks in the MATLAB-Simulink environment by the example of its use to reconstruct the distorted secondary current waveform of the saturated current transformer. The functioning of the developed neural networks was verified in the MATLAB-Simulink environment; with the use of the SimPowerSystems component library a model was implemented which allow simulating the current transformer saturation, accompanied by the secondary current waveform distortion, and its further restoration using developed artificial neural networks. The obtained results confirmed the ability of the neural networks that had been developed to almost completely restore the distorted secondary current waveform. Thus, it seems promising to use pre-trained artificial neural networks in real relay protection devices, since such use will ensure the speed of real relay protection devices; their operation reliability will also increase.
Structure, Impermeability and Durability of Cement Concrete
Authors: Batyanovskiy E. I. , Gurinenko N. S. , Korsun A. M.
Published: February 2022

The paper presents the main hypotheses of frost destruction of cement concrete. The influence of cyclic temperature changes and the effect of static and dynamic (shock) loads on concrete on changes in the structure and strength of concrete

is considered. The paper provides results of comparative tests of frost resistance of concrete containing a porous additive and a plasticizer, which contribute to an increase in the density and impermeability of its structure. It has been shown experimentally that the introduction of air-entraining additives with an additional effect of hydrophobization is productive from the standpoint of ensuring frost resistance of concrete of relatively low classes (up to C30/37), compressive strength up to 50 MPa and water absorption by mass more than 4.0 %. It is advisable to increase the frost resistance of concrete with greater impermeability and strength by increasing these indicators, in particular, due to the maximum decrease in the initial water content and high-quality compaction. This conclusion is experimentally confirmed by the data presented in the paper, since the “mechanism” of frost destruction of cement concrete is multifactorial, and the growth of its density (impermeability) and strength provide a higher ability to resist “force” effects associated with repeated alternating deformations of concrete, as well as the action of external loads, accumulation of fatigue phenomena, hydrodynamics of liquid filtration under the influence of changing temperature fields, etc. A comparative assessment of concrete frost resistance has been carried out using standardized and patented techniques containing a porous (air-entraining) additive, as well as plasticizing and mineral additives of amorphous micro-silica, introduced into concrete in order to increase its density, impermeability and strength and on this basis – increasing frost resistance. Experimental data are presented, reflecting the relationship and patterns of decrease in frost resistance of concrete subjected to the simultaneous action of static (for compression – different levels from the corresponding indicator of concrete strength) and shock, concentratedly applied dynamic loads. The regularity of the relationship between the accelerated frost destruction of concrete and the action of mechanical loads that cause cracking in its structure has been confirmed.