bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PENGARUH KUALITAS PELAYANAN AKADEMIK DAN FASILITAS BELAJAR TERHADAP KEPUASAN LAYANAN SISWA SMK BATIK 2 SURAKARTA
Authors: Kurniadi Danang , Sawiji Hery , Susantiningrum Susantiningrum
Published: June 2024

The objectives of this study were to knowing: (1)  Knowing whether there is an effect of academic service quality on student service satisfaction at SMK Batik 2 Surakarta. (2) Knowing whether there is an effect of educational facilities on student service satisfaction at SMK Batik 2 Surakarta, (3) Knowing whether there is an effect of the quality of academic services and educational facilities together on student service satisfaction at SMK Batik 2 Surakarta. This research used quantitative methods. The population was all students of grade XI of SMK Batik 2 Surakarta. Sample of 89 students were taken by census technique. Data collection techniques for communication skills, learning discipline used questionnaire method, while learning outcomes used documentation method. The data analysis technique used was multiple regression analysis using SPSS 17. Based on the results of data analysis that have been carried out, (1) There is a significant influence of academic service quality on service satisfaction, (2) there is a significant effect of learning facilities on service satisfaction, (3) there is a simultaneous significant influence on the quality of academic services and learning facilities on service satisfaction. With the effective contribution of academic service quality (X1) of 18.5%, the effective contribution of learning facilities (X2) of 37.4% and the relative contribution of academic service quality (X1) 33.01%, the relative contribution of learning facilities (X2) 66, 90%.
Analisis Penerapan Disiplin Kerja Pegawai Pada Dinas Tenaga Kerja dan Perindustrian Kota Surakarta
Authors: Werdiningrum Aisyah , Murtini Wiedy , Murwaningsih Tri
Published: June 2024

Penelitian ini merupakan jenis penelitian kualitatif dengan pendekatan studi kasus, yang bertujuan untuk mengetahui: 1) penerapan disiplin kerja pegawai di Dinas Tenaga Kerja dan Perindustrian Kota Surakarta, 2) hambatan penerapan disiplin kerja pegawai di Dinas Tenaga Kerja dan Perindustrian Kota Surakarta, dan 3) upaya yang dilakukan untuk mengatasi hambatan penerapan disiplin kerja pegawai di Dinas Tenaga Kerja dan Perindustrian Kota Surakarta. Data penelitian diperoleh dari informan, peristiwa, serta dokumen dengan teknik purposive dan snowball sampling. Teknik pengumpulan data dengan observasi, wawancara dan analisis dokumen. Validasi data diperoleh dengan 4 cara yaitu credibility, transferability, dependability, dan confirmability. Teknik analisis data menggunakan analisis data model interaktif.
Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa: 1) Penerapan disiplin kerja pegawai di Dinas Tenaga Kerja dan Perindustrian Kota Surakarta meliputi: a) ketaatan pegawai pada saat masuk kerja dan mentaati ketentuan jam kerja, b) ketaatan pegawai dalam penggunaan pakaian dinas, c) ketaatan pegawai dalam pelaksanaan tugas kedinasan dengan pengabdian, kesadaran dan tanggung jawab, dan d) ketaatan pegawai dalam penggunaan fasilitas kantor. 2) Penerapan disiplin kerja pegawai di Dinas Tenaga Kerja dan Perindustrian Kota Surakarta memiliki hambatan diantaranya: a) rendahnya kesadaran pegawai dalam pembentukan karakter yang disiplin, b) kurang tegasnya pimpinan dalam menyikapi pelanggaran maupun pemberian hukum, c) kurangnya pegawai didalam memahami dan menjalankan peraturan pemerintah Nomor 53 tahun 2010 tentang disiplin kerja pegawai negeri sipil, dan upaya yang dilakukan Dinas Tenaga Kerja dan perindustrian Kota Surakarta dalam menghadapi hambatan tersebut antara lain: a) pembinaan dan pengarahan, b) pimpinan harus bersikap lebih tegas dalam menindak pelanggar disiplin kerja, dan c) evaluasi berkala.
PENGARUH KEMANDIRIAN BELAJAR DAN LINGKUNGAN PERGAULAN TERHADAP HASIL BELAJAR OTK HUMAS DAN KEPROTOKOLAN SMK NEGERI 3 SURAKARTA
Authors: Khoiriyah Iin , Ninghardjanti Patni , Susantiningrum Susantiningrum
Published: June 2024

Abstract 

The study was aimed to determine (1) the effect of self-regulated learning on students’ learning outcomes of OTKP students grade XII in Public Relations and Protocol Administration subject at SMK Negeri 3 Surakarta in year 2020/2021; (2) the effect of social environment on students’ learning outcomes of OTKP students grade XII in Public Relations and Protocol Administration subject at SMK Negeri 3 Surakarta in year 2020/2021; and (3) the effect of self-regulated learning and social environment on students’ learning outcomes of OTKP students grade XII in Public Relations and Protocol Administration subject at SMK Negeri 3 Surakarta in year 2020/2021. This study was quantitative research with a correlational method. The population of this study was twelfth grade students OTKP of SMK Negeri 3 Surakarta in the 2020/2021 academic year, 102 students. The researcher used incidental sampling with 81 students as the sample. The data were collected using documentation and questionnaires. The data self-regulated learning and social environment were collected using questionnaires, meanwhile the data of students’ learning outcomes were collected using documentation. Then the data were analyzed using a prerequisite test and multiple linear regression analysis using IBM SPSS 22.0 program. This result of study showed that: (1) there was a positive effect of self-regulated learning on student’ learning outcomes of twelfth grade students of OTKP SMK Negeri 3 Surakarta year 2020/2021 with t-value 1,995 > t-table 1,99085; (2) there was a positive effect of social environment on students’ learning outcomes grade XII OTKP students at SMK N 3 Surakarta year 2020/2021 with t-value 2,253 > t-table 1,99085; and (3) there was a positive effect of self-regulated learning and social environment on students’ learning outcomes of  grade XII OTKP students at SMK N 3 Surakarta year 2020/2021 with F-value 13,088 > F-table 3,11.
Analisis Coworking Space di EL Samara Surakarta
Authors: Oktavia Sonia Putri , Sawiji Hery , Winarno Winarno
Published: June 2024

This study aims to determine: 1) coworking space management; 2) barriers to coworking space management; and 3) solutions to overcome the barriers to coworking space man-agement in El Samara, Surakarta. This research is descriptive qualitative research with a type of case study. Data sources include events, informants, and documents in the cowork-ing space. The sampling technique is purposive sampling. Data collection techniques in-clude interviews, observation, and document analysis. The data validity test technique in-volves the triangulation of sources and techniques. The data analysis technique is interac-tive analysis. The results showed: 1) the management of coworking space in El Samara Surakarta by the community manager includes planning, organizing, actuating, and con-trolling in providing various types of collaborative working space as an attraction; 2) barriers to coworking space management in El Samara Surakarta are related to the unifi-cation of the vision and mission of collaboration, staff workload, income, supporting means of remote working communication, dissemination of concept and benefits, as well as administrative services; 3) solutions to overcome the barriers to managing coworking space in El Samara Surakarta, namely looking for potential collaborators, holding intern-ship programs, increasing private offices, planning telecommunication stalls, utilizing in-formation systems, and other facilities for administrative services.
Penggunaan aplikasi sistem administrasi kendaraan pajak online (Sakpole) dalam pembayaran PKB tahunan di Samsat Surakarta
Authors: Oktaviani Annisaa Milenia , Sawiji Hery , Subarno Anton
Published: June 2024

Abstrak: Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk: 1) mengetahui penggunaan aplikasi Sistem Administrasi Pajak Kendaraan Online (SAKPOLE) dalam pembayaran pajak kendaraan bermotor di SAMSAT Surakarta; 2) mengetahui kendala penggunaan aplikasi Sistem Administrasi Pajak Kendaraan Online (SAKPOLE) dalam pembayaran pajak kendaraan bermotor di SAMSAT Surakarta; 3) mengetahui solusi kendala penggunaan aplikasi Sistem Administrasi Pajak Kendaraan Online (SAKPOLE) dalam pembayaran pajak kendaraan bermotor di SAMSAT Surakarta. Penelitian ini menggunakan jenis penelitian kualitatif. Dengan menggunakan purposive dan snowball sampling, data penelitian diperoleh dari informan, peristiwa, dan dokumen. Wawancara, observasi, dan analisis dokumen dilakukan dengan teknik pengumpulan data. Keabsahan data diperoleh dengan triangulasi sumber, teknik dan waktu. Teknik analisis data menggunakan analisis data interaktif. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pemanfaatan aplikasi SAKPOLE dalam pembayaran PKB tahunan meliputi: (1) meningkatkan kesadaran dalam membayar pajak, (2) mengurangi penggunaan biro jasa, (3) meningkatkan pendapatan, dan (4) mempercepat jasa.

Kata kunci : pusat administrasi pajak kendaraan bermotor Surakarta; sistem SAKPOLE; teknologi

Abstract: This study aims to: 1) determine the use of the Online Vehicle Tax Administration System (SAKPOLE) application in paying motor vehicle taxes at SAMSAT Surakarta; 2) find out the obstacles to using the Online Vehicle Tax Administration System (SAKPOLE) application in paying motor vehicle taxes at SAMSAT Surakarta; 3) knowing the solution to the constraints of using the Online Vehicle Tax Administration System (SAKPOLE) application in paying motor vehicle taxes at SAMSAT Surakarta. This study uses a type of qualitative research. Using purposive and snowball sampling, research data were obtained from informants, events, and documents. Interviews, observation, and document analysis collected data collection techniques. Data validity was obtained by source, technique and time triangulation. The data analysis technique uses interactive data analysis. The results of the study show that the use of the SAKPOLE application in annual PKB payments includes: (1) increasing awareness in paying taxes, (2) reducing the use of service bureaus, (3) increasing income, and (4) speeding up services.

Keywords: SAKPOLE application; SAMSAT Surakarta; technology
Pengaruh lingkungan teman sebaya dan motivasi belajar terhadap disiplin belajar siswa jurusan Manajemen Perkantoran dan Layanan Bisnis (MPLB) di SMK Negeri 1 Sukoharjo
Authors: Utami Meylani Dwi , Murwaningsih Tri , Winarno Winarno
Published: June 2024

This research aims to determine: (1) the influence of the peer environment on student learning discipline; (2) the influence of learning motivation on student learning discipline; (3) the influence of the peer environment and motivation to study together on student learning disciplineThe research method used is a quantitative approach with correlational methods. The population used is all students in class X and XI majoring in MPLB at SMK Negeri 1 Sukoharjo for the 2022/2023 academic year with a total of 214 students. Sampling used a proportionate stratified random sampling technique with a total of 140 students. Data collection techniques using questionnaires or questionnaires and documentation. The data analysis technique uses multiple linear regression analysis techniques. The results showed that: (1) there was a positive and significant peer environment influence on learning discipline (tcount 2.016> ttable 1.977) with significance (0.046<0.05); (2) there is a positive and significant effect of learning motivation on learning discipline (tcount 4.288> ttable 1.977) with significance (0.000<0.05); (3) there is a positive and significant influence on the peer environment and motivation to learn together (tcount 72.589> ttable 3.06) with a significance (0.000<0.05).
IoT revolutionizes orchid cultivation in Indonesia with precision and efficiency
Authors: Bisri Hasan , Syahrorini Syamsudduha
Published: June 2024

The Orchidaceae family is highly valued in ornamental, perfume, medical, and cosmetic industries, but cultivation often fails due to human error. This research aims to design an IoT-integrated automation system to monitor and control key parameters such as air temperature, humidity, and moss moisture for orchid cultivation. Using the research and development method, we observed plant needs, reviewed relevant literature, designed an effective system, and tested sensor accuracy and system reliability. Results showed the DHT-22 sensor had a minimal error in temperature (0.9%) and humidity (2.1%) readings, and the soil moisture sensor had a 3.65% error. The system maintained optimal conditions, and the Blynk app effectively displayed data. This innovation reduces human error and enhances orchid cultivation efficiency, with potential applications in other sensitive plant systems.   Highlight:  Error Reduction: IoT system minimizes human error in orchid cultivation. Sensor Accuracy: DHT-22 sensors show minimal temperature (0.9%) and humidity (2.1%) errors. Optimal Conditions: Maintains air humidity 40%-80%RH and moss moisture 50%-80%RH.     Keyword:  Orchidaceae, IoT automation, sensor accuracy, environmental control, orchid cultivation
Electric Drive and Automation of Sampling System for Chimney Fas Analyzer
Authors: Emeliantchikov V. I. , Loikuts E. E. , Opeiko O. F.
Published: June 2024

To organize reliable control over emissions from chimneys of energy facilities, automatic monitoring systems are needed. Equipment is known for monitoring emissions from small-diameter chimneys, but for large-diameter pipes (15 m or more) available in our Republic, there are no corresponding technical solutions.  The paper examines the problem of automating the sampling of flue gases based on an electric drive in large-diameter chimneys. To ensure the optimal trajectory of the sampler in the chimney section, it is necessary to use an asynchronous electric motor with a frequency converter and a position sensor. A functional diagram of the control system is proposed, which contains a programmable logic controller for generating the motion mode, as well as a method for calculating parameters and expressions for generating a task signal for continuous sampling mode. Since the range of speed control increases as the diameter of the chimney increases, depending on it, scalar or vector frequency control can be applied. An expression is proposed for calculating the optimal value of the parameter N of an incremental position and speed sensor (encoder), which contributes to a reasonable choice of sensor. The results of simulation modeling are presented, confirming the effectiveness of the proposed method for calculating the parameters of the sampler drive.
Hydraulic Calculation Methodology for Group Well Water Intakes with Paired Prefabricated Water Pipelines
Authors: Veremenyuk V. V. , Ivashechkin V. V. , Krytskaya V. I.
Published: June 2024

For domestic and drinking water supply for cities and large industrial enterprises, group well water intakes are widely used, in which prefabricated water pipelines are designed to transport water from wells to collection points. The choice of the optimal layout of prefabricated water pipelines is determined after technical, economic and hydraulic calculations of the entire water intake, taking into account the characteristics of wells and deep-well pumps installed in them, and the parameters of all pressure pipelines. Hydraulic calculations are based on a developed mathematical model of water intake, which should provide reliable data on pump flows, drops in water levels in wells, flow rates and pressures in the collecting water pipeline system for any number and combination of operating wells. This allows for the correct selection of pumps and reduces energy costs for lifting and transporting water. The article is devoted to the development of a methodology for hydraulic calculation of group well water intakes with paired collection water pipelines, which are used at high-capacity water intakes in water supply systems with a high degree of water supply security. The difficulty in calculating such water intakes lies in the fact that here each well simultaneously supplies water to two strings of collecting water pipelines, which distinguishes this scheme for supplying water to a collecting unit from other standard schemes. The article presents calculation schemes and an algorithm for hydraulic calculation of group water intake, which is considered as a system with non-fixed water supplies. The calculation algorithm is based on taking into account the balance of pressures in water pipelines with pumps included in them and the balance of flow rates in nodes for all sections of prefabricated water pipelines. A computer program has been developed and the results of a numerical calculation of groundwater intake, equipped with paired prefabricated water pipelines and consisting of 15 wells, are presented.
Study of glued elements of model kits under atmospheric conditions and contact with molding mixtures
Authors: Kalinichenko M. L.
Published: June 2024

The quality of obtained castings directly depends on the model equipment and the materials used for its production. The properties of elements of model kits, made of plastic and joined using glue technology, are examined. The properties of these joints were evaluated through natural aging under atmospheric conditions. Works were carried out to analyze the influence of abrasive properties of the molding mixture and its components on the quality of glued model kits. Hardness and plasticity tests of the molding mixture were conducted using G. M. Orlov’s sample with both standard and plastic inserts, both integral and glued.
On the motion of a spherical cavity in a melt
Authors: Vereshchagin M. N. , Chernichenko Yu. D. , Shishkov S. V.
Published: June 2024

Gas inclusions significantly influence the quality of solidifying melts. Dissolved gases in liquid metals, due to diffusion and chemical reactions, contribute to the formation and growth of new inclusions. The mathematical problem of the dynamic behavior of a spherical cavity is solved using the Navier‑Stokes equation, treating the melt as a viscous incompressible fluid. An expression for the change in radius of a spherical cavity under Newtonian behavior of the melts is obtained.
Investigation of microstructure and mechanical properties of 45KH2NMFBA steel samples after thermal exposure
Authors: Izobello A. Yu. , Basalay A. V. , Bilenko E. G. , Petrenko V. V. , Apishev V. V.
Published: June 2024

The analysis of the structure of ballistic materials was carried out and the optimal mechanical properties necessary to ensure the best bullet resistance and durability of armored steel were selected. A study of 45X2NMFBA armor steel was carried out under various heat treatment modes. The optimal modes of heat treatment have been determined to ensure an increase in mechanical properties. It was found that with an increase in the cooling rate of steel, a finer‑grained structure is formed, and an increase in the quenching temperature leads to an increase in the grain of primary austenite. The results of optical microscopy and mechanical properties of the studied steel samples are presented
Changes in Glaucoma Management Following Diurnal Home Tonometry
Authors: Hallaj Shahin , Hock Lauren E. , O’Connor Nicholas , August Ari , Shukla Aakriti G. , Kolomeyer Natasha N. , Razeghinejad Reza , Myers Jonathan S. , Lee Daniel
Published: June 2024

Purpose: To assess the effect of iCare HOME tonometry on the clinical management of glaucoma patients progressing with low in-office intraocular pressures (IOP).
Methods: Patients who were found to have progressive glaucoma by their glaucoma specialist were asked to record IOP at least four times daily using iCare HOME. Upon review of home tonometry readings, a decision was made on whether to advance therapy. IOP elevation was defined as a greater than 30% or 5mmHg increase of IOP from baseline. Primary outcome measures were therapy advancement and IOP profile.
Results: Eighty eyes of 41 patients with were enrolled during office visits. The average age of the patients was 60.6±14.2, and most of the cases were female (56.8%). most cases had moderate glaucoma (47.5%).Fifty eyes (62.5%) had changes in glaucoma management after a review of iCare HOME readings. Of these, 36(72%) changed medical therapy, 6(12%) underwent selective laser trabeculoplasty, and 8(16%) underwent surgery. Among all measurements, 724 elevations were detected in 55 eyes of 37 patients. The average elevation from baseline IOP was 8.17±4.47 mmHg, most of which occurred in the morning around 6AM and in the afternoon around 1PM. Only maximum home IOP was a significant predictor of therapy advancement (coefficient= 0.071, p=0.038). There was no significant association between the IOP profile before the home self-tonometry, visual field fast progression, number of IOP elevations, and therapy advancement between the two groups.
Conclusions: Home tonometry revealed significant IOP elevations beyond office IOP, and maximum home IOP was associated with therapy advancement.
Can Flash Glucose Monitoring improve glucose management for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with type 2 diabetes? A protocol for a randomised controlled trial.
Authors: Hachem Mariam , Hearn Tracey , Kelly Ray , Eer Audrey , Moore Belinda , Sommerville Christine , Atkinson-Briggs Sharon , Twigg Stephen , Freund Meagan , O'Neal David , Story David , Brown Alex , McLean Anna , Sinha Ashim , Furler John , O'Brien Richard , Clarke Philip , Duy-Tran An , Braat Sabine , Koye Digsu , Eades Sandra , Burchill Luke J , Ekinci Elif Ilhan
Published: June 2024

Background: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are disproportionately impacted by type 2 diabetes. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology (such as Abbott Freestyle Libre 2, previously referred to as Flash Glucose Monitoring) offers real-time glucose monitoring that is convenient and easy to use compared to self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG). However, this technology’s use is neither widespread nor subsidised for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with type 2 diabetes. Building on existing collaborations with a national network of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, this randomised controlled trial aims to assess the effect of CGM compared to SMBG on (i) haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), (ii) achieving blood glucose targets, (iii) reducing hypoglycaemic episodes; and (iv) cost-effective healthcare in an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples health setting.Methods: This is a non-masked, parallel-group, two-arm, individually randomised, controlled trial (ACTRN12621000753853). Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults with type 2 diabetes on injectable therapy and HbA1c≥7.5% (n=350) will be randomised (1:1) to CGM or SMBG for 6 months. The primary outcome is change in HbA1c level from baseline to 6 months. Secondary outcomes include i) CGM-derived metrics, ii) frequency of hypoglycaemic episodes, iii) health-related quality of life, and iv) incremental cost per quality-adjusted life year gained associated with the CGM compared to SMBG. Clinical trial sites include Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, Aboriginal Medical Services, primary care centres, and tertiary hospitals across urban, rural, regional, and remote Australia.Discussion: The trial will assess the effect of CGM compared to SMBG on HbA1c for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with type 2 diabetes in Australia. This trial could have long-term benefits in improving diabetes management and providing evidence for funding of CGM in this population.Trial registration: Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12621000753853).
Utility of the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research for the patient perspective; comparison of the original and updated versions of the framework and a thematic analysis
Authors: Elvey Rebecca , Mathieson Amy , Wilson Paul M
Published: June 2024

Background: The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) is widely used in implementation science but rarely applied to the patient perspective. We undertook a theory-informed process evaluation, in a hybrid trial testing real world delivery of an innovation in primary care. The evaluation assessed strategies to incorporate the innovation into everyday clinical practice, from multiple perspectives, including patients. The overall study design was CFIR-informed. During our data analysis period, the updated CFIR was published, with an increased emphasis on innovation recipients; this prompted our interest in comparing the two versions of CFIR in terms of their utility for the patient perspective.
Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews with patients. Data were subjected to data-driven, inductive thematic analysis and theory-based, deductive CFIR analyses, using the original and updated versions of CFIR. We compared our analyses against one another, in terms of the resulting accounts of the patient perspective, assessing the utility of the two versions of CFIR and comparing the inductive and deductive analyses.
Results: Our dataset consisted of interviews with 56 patients. The thematic analysis resulted in three themes: experience of living with high cholesterol; views about the treatment; accessing and receiving the treatment. The thematic analysis provided the fullest account of what mattered to patients. The CFIR analyses accommodated most of our data, via 11 constructs across five domains in the original framework and 16 constructs across four domains in the updated CFIR; the updated version has better utility for the patient perspective. Patient preference for general practice as a place, concerns about costs for future financing of the treatment and views on what a future service could look like, were key factors that could impact wider spread.
Conclusions: Patient preferences, concerns and views expressed in this study could influence uptake of the innovation. The updated CFIR had good utility for accommodating these implementation determinants and should be applied to patient data generated in other settings and with other innovations. Doing so would increase diversity within the implementation science evidence base. Researchers could also further consider the utility of CFIR-based analyses compared with inductive approaches.
Trial registration Registration number: NCT04807400 Date of registration: 19/03/2021 Name of the registry: ClinicalTrials.gov URL of trial registry record: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04807400
The Impact of Psychological Interventions on Functioning in the Context of Borderline Personality Disorder Features for Adolescents and Young Adults; a Systematic Review and Meta Analysis
Authors: Brandrett Benjamin , Gajwani Ruchika
Published: June 2024

Background
Adolescents recruited from clinical samples with borderline personality disorder (BPD) experience high levels of functional impairment in numerous domains. Evidence suggests that the presence of borderline personality features before adulthood predict long term functional impairment and can worsen into adulthood. However, the method of assessment and the impact of intervention on functioning remains unclear.
Methods
This study conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to assess the impact of psychological intervention on functioning in adolescents and young adults with BPD features. Four databases were reviewed (PsycINFO, Medline, Embase, and CINAHL).
Results
Out of 1859 papers, seven trials (657 participants) met eligibility criteria. Overall, psychological intervention significantly improved functioning at post-treatment and final follow-up. However, when comparing "BPD-specific" interventions with generalist treatment as usual (TAU) at post-treatment, effect sizes were small (overall ES g = 0.08, 95% CI = -0.10–0.25), and marginally improved at final follow-up (overall ES g = 0.16, 95% CI = -0.13–0.46). However, the trials raised some concerns about the risk of bias, with one showing a high risk.
Conclusions
Based on the synthesis of findings, both interventions showed similar effects on functional impairment. The findings have implications for service design and addressing the needs of an often-underrepresented patient population. This study emphasizes a need for more high-quality trials with larger sample sizes to strengthen the evidence base further.
Design and Rationale for a Randomized, Open-Label, Parallel Clinical Trial Evaluating Major Cardiovascular Events (Pharmacological Treatment Versus Diet Control) in Patients with High-Normal Blood Pressure: The PRINT-TAHA9 Trial
Authors: Attar Armin , Mirhosseini Seyed Alireza , Borazjani Roham , Sayadi Mehrab , Ahadi Mahsa , Zibaeenezhad MohammadJavad , Razeghian-Jahromi Iman , Parsa Nader
Published: June 2024

Background:
The distinction between normal and high blood pressure remains a debated topic, with varying guidelines on when to start medication. Contemporary guidelines advocate for the initiation of antihypertensive therapy in individuals who present with high-normal blood pressure, particularly those exhibiting elevated 10-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk scores. Despite these recommendations, there is a notable lack of direct evidence supporting the efficacy of treating high-normal blood pressure to prevent major cardiovascular events (MACE).
Methods:
The PRINT-TAHA9 trial, which is a unicentric, randomized, open-label, placebo-controlled, parallel clinical study, seeks to explore the effects of intensive blood pressure control on MACE in participants with high-normal blood pressure. We will enroll 1620 adults aged 18 years and above with a systolic blood pressure range of 130-140 mmHg, diastolic blood pressure under 90 mmHg, and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk score exceeding 7.5%. The study will be executed in five distinct phases, with each phase enrolling between 300 and 400 participants. Participants will be randomly allocated to either the treatment group receiving antihypertensive medication (amlodipine/valsartan) and a low-salt/low-fat diet or to the control group receiving a similar diet. Follow-up visits are scheduled every six months over a three-year period to monitor blood pressure, evaluate medication adherence, document any adverse events, and adjust the intervention as necessary. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis will be employed to examine the disparities between the two arms. The study's design adheres to the Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials (SPIRIT) guidelines.
Discussion:
The literature on managing high-normal blood pressure reveals a significant gap in medical understanding, especially regarding when to start pharmacological intervention. Despite guidelines advocating early treatment, the debate continues due to insufficient evidence that such interventions significantly reduce major cardiovascular events. This trial seeks to address this critical evidence gap.
Trial registration: The PRINT-TAHA9 trial was registered in October 2019 with the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT.ir) under the registration number IRCT20191002044961N1. https://irct.behdasht.gov.ir/trial/43092
Ocean Stratification Impedes Particulate Transport to the Plumes of Enceladus
Authors: Ames Flynn , Ferreira David , Czaja Arnaud , Masters Adam
Published: June 2024

Water-vapour plumes erupting from Enceladus’ south pole provide a window into the properties of its subsurface ocean, a prime target in the search for life. However, the extent to which plume material represents conditions at Enceladus’ depths is unclear, because of its unknown ocean stratification, which may impede the transport of matter to the ocean top. Previous studies have found conflicting stratification regimes using differing parameter choices and model physics.
Here, we build a comprehensive view of Enceladus’ ocean stratification and bottom-to-top transport timescale, across plausible ranges of salinity and tidally- and librationally-induced mixing, accounting for non-linearities in the equation of state for water, geothermal heating and ice-ocean freshwater exchanges. We use theoretical models verified with global ocean numerical simulations.
We show that, under a steady state assumption for the ice shell, which requires melting at the poles, there is no parameter choice permitting an unstratified ocean from top to bottom. As a result, potential hydrothermal products take at minimum 100s of years to reach the plumes.
This suggests that either timescales of several months, inferred from Cassini observations, are incorrect, perhaps biased by alternative particulate transport mechanisms, or that Enceladus' ice shell is not in a quasi-equilibrated state.
Posterior Uterine Fibroid Resection: Which Surgical Approach is More Suitable?
Authors: Hou Qiannan , Li Xin , Huang Lu , Zhang Qiang , Feng Dan , Li Yan , Gu Dingqian , Lin Yonghong , He Li
Published: June 2024

Objective: This study aims to objectively assess the effect of three surgical approaches for posterior uterine fibroid resection: transumbilical laparoendoscopic single-site surgery (LESS), vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES) in prone position (vNOTES-P), and vNOTES in the lithotomy position (vNOTES-L).
Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on data pertaining to all patients who underwent vNOTES and LESSfor single posterior fibroids at our institution from January 2023 to July 2023. Patients were categorized into three groups based on the surgical approach: vNOTES-Pgroup (n=30), vNOTES-L group (n=17), and LESS group (n=32). Comparative analysis was performed on the demographic characteristics and perioperative outcomes among the three groups of patients.
Results: All 79 patients underwent surgery without the need for conversion to laparotomy. There were no statistically significant differences among the LESS group, vNOTES-P group, and vNOTES-L group in terms of operative time, intraoperative blood loss, and perioperative complication rates. In the vNOTES-L group, two patients required conversion to LESS during surgery. The time to postoperative flatus was significantly shorter in the vNOTES group compared to the LESS group (P < 0.05). However, three cases of postoperative infection occurred in the vNOTES group, while none were reported in the LESS group.
Conclusion: Compared to LESS, vNOTES demonstrates significant advantages in alleviating postoperative pain, shortening time to passage of flatus, and enhancing cosmetic outcomes. Particularly, vNOTES-P for posterior uterine fibroid resection, as an emerging surgical approach, offers certain advantages in facilitating surgical maneuverability and reducing operative time, rendering it more suitable for posterior uterine fibroid resection.
Dietary ferulic acid supplementation enhances antioxidant capacity and alleviated hepatocyte pyroptosis in diquat challenged piglets
Authors: Luo Junqiu , Wu Xiu , Chen Daiwen , Yu Bing , He Jun
Published: June 2024

Background
Oxidative stress significantly impacts growth performance and liver function in piglets. Ferulic acid (FA) works as an antioxidant, however, the role and mechanism of FA in the regulation of diquat-induced oxidative stress in piglets are less known. This study was designed to investigate the effects of FA on growth performance and antioxidant capacity in piglets with diquat challenge.
Methods
Thirty-two healthy DLY (Duroc× Landrace × Yorkshire) piglets (13.24 ± 0.19 kg) were randomly divided into one of two diets including 0 or 4 g/kg FA for 14 d. On day 15, all pigs were intraperitoneally injected diquat or sterile saline.
Results
Diquat infusion significantly reduced the average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI) of piglets. Dietary FA supplementation suppressed body weight loss in and reduced serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities in diquat challenged piglets. Furthermore, diquat infusion increased reactive oxygen radicals (ROS) level in liver, decreased the activities of total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and increased malondialdehyde (MDA) content in the liver and serum. Supplementation with FA significantly increased T-AOC and T-SOD activities and decreased MDA and ROS levels. FA down-regulated gene and protein expression of Keap1, and up-regulated protein expression of Nrf2 and HO-1 in the liver of piglets with diquat challenge. Importantly, diquat challenge increased the ratio of late apoptosis, increased serum levels of IL-1β, IL-18 and LDH, and up-regulated pyroptosis-related genes in the liver. FA supplementation reduced the ratio of late apoptosis and down-regulated mRNA expression of pyroptosis-related genes (NLRP3, Caspase1, GSDMD, IL-1β and IL-18). Accordingly, FA addition reduced concentration of IL-1β, IL-18, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) under diquat challenge.
Conclusions
Diquat-induced oxidative stress reduced growth performance and impaired liver function in piglets. Dietary FA supplementation enhanced the antioxidant capacity and reduced the degree of hepatocyte pyroptosis, thereby alleviating the oxidative damage in the liver and mitigating the impact of diquat on growth performance of piglets.
Optimal antiplatelet therapy for acute coronary syndrome patients with high risk for both ischemia and bleeding
Authors: Li Yachao , Lei Mengjie , Wang Jingyao , Sun Xue , Li Cairong , Zhao Zhigang , Xue Zengming
Published: June 2024

Objective: To investigate the impact of different regimens of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) on the prognosis of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients with high risk of both ischemia and bleeding after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).
Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 1,816 ACS patients with high risk of ischemia and bleeding who underwent PCI at a single center from January 2017 to November 2022. Patients were divided into an intensive group (n=1046, ticagrelor 90 mg), a routine group (n=611, clopidogrel 75 mg), and a de-escalation group (n=159, ticagrelor 90 mg). All patients received DAPT, including aspirin, for a duration of ≥ 12 months after PCI. The primary endpoint was the net clinical adverse events (NACEs) that occurred during follow-up, including the composite endpoint of major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) and major bleeding associated with the thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) criteria. The secondary endpoint was MACCE, which included a composite endpoint of cardiogenic death, myocardial infarction, ischemia-driven revascularization, and stroke. The primary safety endpoint is defined as major or minor bleeding events according to the TIMI criteria.
Results: Compared with the de-escalation group, the intensive group had a lower incidence of NACEs (6.5% vs. 12.6%, P=0.011) and MACCEs during follow-up (4.4% vs. 11.9%, P<0.001). The risk of bleeding in the intensive group was significantly greater than that in the routine group (21.1% vs. 15.3%, P=0.003), especially for minor bleeding events (19.5% vs. 14.4%, P=0.007). Cox regression analysis revealed no statistically significant difference in the incidence of NACEs among the three DAPT regimens. Compared with the de-escalation group, both the intensive and routine groups had a reduced incidence of MACCEs (HR=0.334, HR=0.508, respectively); however, compared with the routine group, the intensive group had an increased incidence of bleeding events (HR=1.426), especially minor bleeding events (HR=1.395).
Conclusion: For ACS patients with a high risk for both ischemia and bleeding, Aspirin combined with clopidogrel is recommended, as it not only reduces the incidence of ischemic events but also does not increase bleeding events. Choosing aspirin combined with ticagrelor to enhance antiplatelet therapy may reduce the risk of ischemic events, but minor bleeding events is increased. For this type of patient, de-escalation treatment is not recommended.
An Analysis of the Psychometric Properties of the Medication Safety Competence Scale in Turkish
Authors: AYDINLI Ayşe , Cerit Kamuran
Published: June 2024

Purpose
Considering the key roles and responsibilities of nurses in ensuring medication safety, it is necessary to understand nurses’ competence in medication safety. Therefore, it was aimed to introduce a scale evaluating the medication safety competence of nurses into Turkish and to contribute to the literature by determining the medication safety competence levels of nurses.
Methods
A methodological and descriptive research design was utilised. The population consisted of nurses in Turkey, and the sample comprised 523 nurses who volunteered to participate.
Results
The content validity index of the scale was 0.98, and the scale showed a good fit (χ2/df = 3.00, RMSEA = 0.062). The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of the scale was 0.97, indicating high reliability. The mean score was 4.12, which was considered high. Participants who were 40 years old or above, married, and graduates of health vocational schools or postgraduate programs, along with those who had received medication safety training, had higher medication safety competence scores.
Conclusion
This study presents strong evidence that the Turkish version of the Medication Safety Competency Scale is valid and reliable when administered to nurses. The participants in this study had high levels of medication safety competence.
Pollution characteristics and Impacts of Organochlorine pesticides in the River Niger floodplain soils
Authors: Iwegbue Chukwujindu M.A. , Aziza Andrew E. , Oghoje Stephen U. , Ogwu Ijeoma F. , Olisah Chijioke , Martincigh Bice S.
Published: June 2024

Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) concentration was evaluated in floodplain soils from the lower sections of River Niger in order to explore their distribution patterns with respect to soil depth, sources, ecosystem and human health risks. The soils at three depths from thirteen (13) locations along the floodplain were collected, Soxhlet extracted with dichloromethane (DCM)/n-hexane and analyzed for OCPs by using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The Σ20 OCP concentrations in the soils from 0–15, 15–30 and 30–45 cm depths varied from 5.0–592, 7.1–281 and 8.12–507 ng g− 1 for respectively. On average, the Σ20 OCP concentrations decreased with depth. Chlordane was the predominant OCP in the soil profiles. The results of risk assessment suggested that concentrations of OCP in the soil profiles can pose risks to the ecosystem and farmers in the floodplain. The source apportionment showed predominance of historical sources over recent usage of OCPs in the floodplain soils.
Hybrid Genetic Algorithm-Particle Swarm Optimization Based Approach for Optimal Sizing and Placement of a Passive Filter
Authors: AbuZahew Ahlam , Salama Sanaa , Mahariq Ibrahim , Firat Muhammet Server
Published: June 2024

This work presents a hybrid Genetic Algorithm-particle swarm optimization based technique for optimal placement and sizing of a passive power filters to reduce harmonics distortion and mitigate the total active power losses in distribution lines with linear and nonlinear loads. The problem was formulated as a nonlinear multi-objective optimization problem with equality and inequality constraints using hybrid Genetic Algorithm with practical swarm optimization. Recommendations by IEEE standards 519–1992 and 18-2002 are considered as the main constraints in this study. Based on the minimum total harmonic distortion and active power losses as the main optimization criteria the optimal solutions were selected. The proposed approach is validated on the IEEE 14 bus system and on a real power system. The results confirmed that proposed method provides robust, effective and high-quality solutions for large power systems.
Malassezia globosa induce differentiation of pathogenic Th17 cells by inducing IL-23 secretion by keratinocytes
Authors: Jia Qiuyu , Hu Jian , Wang Xiaojie , Deng Yuxuan , Zhang Jianzhong , Li Houmin
Published: June 2024

Malassezia, the most abundant fungal commensal on the mammalian skin, has been linked to several inflammatory skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis. This study reveals that epicutaneous application with Malassezia globosa triggers skin inflammation in mice. RNA-sequencing of the resulting mouse lesions indicates activation of IL-17 signaling and Th17 cells differentiation pathways by Malassezia globosa. Furthermore, our findings demonstrate a significant upregulation of IL-23, IL-23R, IL-17A, and IL-22 expressions, along with an increase in the proportion of Th17 and pathogenic Th17 cells in mouse skin exposed to Malassezia globosa. In vitro experiments illustrate that Malassezia globosa prompts human primary keratinocytes to secrete IL-23 via TLR2-MyD88-NF-κB signaling. This IL-23 secretion by keratinocytes is shown to be adequate for inducing the differentiation of pathogenic Th17 cells in the skin. Overall, these results underscore the significant role of Malassezia in exacerbating skin inflammation by stimulating IL-23 secretion by keratinocytes and promoting the differentiation of pathogenic Th17 cells.
Time-lag effects of vegetation responses to water buffered in wetland soil
Authors: Hao Ying-Ying , Pan Yi-Wen , Zheng Jun-Yi , Ge Gang , Zhao Bin
Published: June 2024

Vegetation is not only immediately affected by water flow, but also has a time-lag response to water elements accumulated in the soil of the wetland ecosystem. However, extensive studies focused on the direct response of vegetation to water regimen, the time-lag effects are less considered due to lacking appropriate quantitative methods. In this study, we aimed to quantitatively determine the response of wetland vegetation to two different forms of water. We extracted three vegetation patches using long-term Landsat data and constructed two kinds of hydrological variables (immediate and time-lag), analyzing their relationship. The results showed that:(1) different vegetation patches have different spatio-temporal dynamics over time. The distribution elevation of dense and high grass patches significantly reduces, and the ecological niche expands;(2) the temporal explicit pattern of wetland vegetation response to two hydrological variables are different: the sensitivity of the response to immediate hydrological variables is sparse grass patch>dense grass patch>high grass patch, and the response duration of time-lag is dense grass patch >sparse grass patch>high grass patch; compared to vegetation patches at high elevation, sparse grass patch at lower elevation is more susceptible to the accumulation of water regimen over time. Our study clarifies that wetland vegetation has a time-lag response to water regimen, which is a supplement to evaluating and predicting vegetation dynamics under wetland water regimen changes.
Intelligent Railguard: PLC-Driven Automation For Enhanced Safety And Efficiency In Modern Railway Systems
Authors: Retnakumar G. Joselin , Rajesh Akhil , Aagarish M
Published: June 2024

In modern railway systems, Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) play a crucial role, particularly in automatic level crossing systems. This project explores the application of PLCs in enhancing railway safety and efficiency. Three specific projects are investigated: automatic fault detection of railway tracks, an automatic railway gate control system, and a traffic light control system integrated with automatic railway gate crossing. The common thread across these projects is the utilization of PLCs for automation, ensuring precise and reliable operation in railway infrastructure.