bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global Eclectic Treatment of Covid-19: Global, Regional, and National Perspectives on Common Enemy
Authors: Askandar Hirshi Anadza , Pasopati Rommel Utungga , Syarifuddin Syarifuddin
Published: December 2021

After being called the UN's, COVID-19 has become a global common enemy today. The escalation of the pandemic has been responded to nationally, regionally, as well as globally. However, the efforts of the United Nations as the most significant international organization are interpreted differently at the regional and national levels. That way, there will be a gap in understanding between the handling of COVID-19 at the global, regional, and national levels. Therefore, this paper discusses further how the COVID-19 as a common global enemy is reflected in regional and national actions against this pandemic? The global eclectic theory is explored to explain how global concepts relate to more specific concepts. Comparing the COVID-19 handling policies in ASEAN, SAARC, and the EU is needed to deeply explain the differences in handling the outbreak in each region. The result shows that common enemies do not automatically reflect joint regional action. National interest is still challenging to consolidate at the regional, furthermore global level. Moreover, cultural differences between countries cannot be reduced quickly in global matters.
Kondisi Mental Para Pengahafal Al-Qur’an di Masa Pandemi
Authors: Munawaroh Alisa Qothrunnada , Muhtarom Muhtarom , Hapsari Tri Indah , Waliko Waliko
Published: December 2021

The Covid-19 pandemic affects the emotional mental condition of the tahfidz al-Qur'an Islamic boarding school students. The existence of Covid-19 has had a physical and psychological impact on every student. The students who are in the boarding school environment must practice social distancing. The students at the Islamic boarding school must stay in the cottage with the application of the quarantine method. This study aims to obtain and provide an overview of the mental and emotional disorders of students in Islamic boarding schools who are currently in quarantine. This type of research is qualitative research with this research method being descriptive analysis. The data collection techniques in this study, namely observation, interviews, and documentation. Based on data analysis, tahfidz students from Islamic boarding schools in Banyumas experienced a decrease in reduced deposits and some even could only do muraja'ah.
The implementation of SETS approach towards students achievement on the solubility material based on KKNI
Authors:   Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, HKBP Nommensen University, Medan 20235, Indonesia, Sitepu Christina , Mayasari Simanjuntak Ruth ,   Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, HKBP Nommensen University, Medan 20235, Indonesia
Published: December 2021

The low students’ achievement, lack of variety of teaching methods on Basic Chemistry, lack of students’ engagement on teaching and learning process, misconception of Chemistry is difficult subject, and the changes of curriculum into KKNI on Industrial Revolution 4.0 that demand for the students are on the level 6 on the output based on the government legislation are the problems that need to be done on this study. This study aimed to find out the students’ achievement and response during the learning process on Basic Chemistry-Solubility and Solubility Product-class by using SETS approach based on KKNI. This is a quasi experiemental study through the distance learning. The technique of collecting the data was documentation and research instruments that consist of course outlines (RPS), students’ activity (observation sheet), and students’ work sheets that describe the activity with SETS method, pretest and post test, and the student’s questionnaire. The results showed that the implementation of SETS approach affects the students achievement thus there is enhancement on students achievement for the control and experimental class for 51.92% and the students response on the methods are 88%. The Concluded that there is an effect of Using SETS to improve student achievement and increasing student responses to learning.
QUALITY OF PUBLIC SERVICES AT THE DEPARTMENT OF INVESTMENT AND INTEGRATED LICENSING SERVICES ONE DOOR OF THE GOVERNMENT OF NORTH SUMATRA PROVINCE
Authors: Sinaga Muti , Hartono Budi , Sinaga Rudi Salam
Published: December 2021

Problems regarding the quality of public services have always been a concern in the study of public policy. The office of investment and licensing services is one of the agencies that is able to increase regional income. The purpose of this study was to determine the quality of public services at the One Stop Integrated Investment and Licensing Service of the North Sumatra Provincial Government. The method used is qualitative with the type of case study. Data obtained through interviews, literature study and documentation. Data analysis used descriptive analysis with data validity techniques using triangulation techniques. The results of the study found that human resources and the availability of infrastructure were the triggers for the decline in the quality of public services at the location of this study.
DEVELOPMENT OF LEARNING MEDIA USING ADOBE FLASH PLAYER SOFTWARE AND THE ROLE OF SELF EFFICACY TO INCREASE ECONOMIC LEARNING OUTCOMES FOR CLASS X IIS MAN 1 PADANG LAWAS
Authors: ROHIMA LAILA , Hutasuhut Saidun , Arwansyah Arwansyah
Published: December 2021

This study aims to create and develop learning media using Adobe Flash Flayer software in economics class X IIS MAN 1 Padang Lawas which can be used to support learning so as to assist teachers in delivering learning materials. This research is a development research with ADDIE development model. In addition, this study was also conducted to determine the interaction of Self Efficacy with the use of media in improving student learning outcomes. This research was conducted at MAN 1 Padang Lawas. The sampling technique was carried out by cluster random sampling technique. The results of this study are learning media with Adobe Flash Player Software developed that meet the eligibility requirements (valid) to be used as learning media in economics subjects for class X IIS. The product developed, based on an assessment of the media aspect, learning design and material aspects carried out by experts as well as responses or responses from students obtained an average percentage of 86.33% feasibility level so that the conclusion belongs to the "Very Eligible" category. There is an interaction between learning media and Self Efficacy on students' economic learning outcomes.
PERANAN POESAT EKONOMI RAKYAT MASA PERANG KEMERDEKAAN DI TANAH KARO TAHUN 1943-1945
Authors: Purnamasari Ika
Published: December 2021

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui latar belakang dibentuknya POESERA dan peranannya pada perang kemerdekaan di tanah karo pada tahun 1943-1945. Penelitian ini dilakukan di kota Berastagi Kabupaten Karo, karena kantor POESERA pada saat perang kemerdekaan dulu berada di kota tersebut. Untuk memperoleh data-data tersebut, peneliti mengadakan penelitian dengan menggunakan data yang non statistik. Metode yang digunakan adalah penelitian lapangan dengan teknik pengumpulan data berupa wawancara, serta nara sumber yang digunakan adalah orang-orang yang pernah ikut serta dalam perang kemerdekaan di Tanah Karo pada tahun 1943-1945, selain itu penelitian ini juga menggunakan studi kepustakaan dengan menggunakan berbagai buku-buku yang berkaitan dengan perang kemerdekaan. Dari hasil penelitian yang peneliti lakukan menunjukkan bahwa latar belakang berdirinya POESERA (Poesat Ekonomi Rakyat) akibat dari kekejaman Pemerintahan Militer Jepang yang mengakibatkan penderitaan rakyat yang berkepanjangan dan juga tindakan penguasa Jepang yang memonopoli semua kebutuhan dan hasil produksi pertanian rakyat menimbulkan kesulitan-kesulitan bagi kehidupan rakyat. Akhirnya dapat disimpulkan bahwa POESERA dibentuk untuk menyaingi koperasi buatan jepang yang pada saat itu memonopoli hasil-hasil pertanian di tanah karo. POESERA juga menunjukkan bahwa pemuda-pemuda karo saat itu tidak berdiam diri melihat kekejaman yang dilakukan oleh pemerintah militer jepang.
Diseño e implementación de cursos a distancia para la Tecnicatura Universitaria en Medicina Nuclear
Authors: Baroni Sabina , Gorino Natalia , Korol Sonia Edith , Gallego Alfredo
Published: December 2021

La Tecnicatura Universitaria en Medicina Nuclear es una carrera de tres años de duración que se dicta en la Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica de la Universidad de Buenos Aires. El presente trabajo describe la transformación de dos asignaturas presenciales, Salud Pública y Organización del Sistema de Salud, en cursos a distancia. Se empleó el Campus Virtual de la Facultad, basado en la plataforma Moodle. Se mantuvo una clase introductoria presencial obligatoria. El resto de las clases se dictó de modo virtual, empleando documentos en Google drive para los contenidos y diversas herramientas para la realización de actividades interactivas, incluyendo encuestas, videos, mapas interactivos, foros de discusión y páginas web existentes o desarrolladas para los cursos. Los exámenes regulatorios fueron tomados a distancia, mientras que para la aprobación se mantuvo una instancia presencial. En encuestas anónimas realizadas al final de los cursos los alumnos los valoraron muy positivamente, destacando el contacto con los docentes y el material didáctico ofrecido. La evaluación por parte de los docentes permitió detectar actividades que necesitan ser optimizadas, pero también fue positiva, demostrando que con una adecuada planificación puede mantenerse el nivel de calidad de la enseñanza en los cursos dictados de modo virtual.
Tecnologias digitais: percepções de professores de inglês no contexto da escola pública
Authors: Franco Azevedo Jéssica , Salcedo de Oliveira Luciani , Duarte Ferreira Vera Lúcia
Published: December 2021

Este artigo – recorte do TCC “A Utilização de Tecnologias Digitais Aplicadas ao Ensino de Inglês como Língua Adicional na Perspectiva de Professores(as) no Contexto da Escola Pública” (Universidade Federal do Pampa/UNIPAMPA, 2019), no Curso de Licenciatura em Letras: Inglês, Espanhol e Respectivas Literaturas/Campus Bagé – se propõe a analisar a utilização de Tecnologias da Informação e Comunicação (TIC) aplicadas ao ensino de inglês como língua adicional no contexto de escolas públicas. Os 18 professores de língua inglesa do estado do RS, que responderam a um questionário disponibilizado via plataforma Google Forms, atuam em escola regular e/ou profissional. Neste texto, é dada ênfase aos dados referentes às crenças de docentes na aplicação de TIC em suas aulas. As reflexões, aqui propostas, são sustentadas por literatura especializada referente ao ensino/aprendizagem de língua adicional e à utilização de TIC nesse processo. A análise dos dados aponta que 100% dos respondentes acreditam que os recursos tecnológicos são agentes que facilitam o processo de ensino-aprendizagem; apesar disso, 66,7% dos participantes da pesquisa utilizam TIC às vezes em sua sala de aula. Nesse contexto, alguns desafios – enfrentados por esses docentes – são apontados; fazendo com que possamos estabelecer um olhar mais real e crítico para a escola pública.
Escolas Conectadas? A Possibilidade de Novas Redes Computacionais
Authors: Dos Santos Giuliani Guilherme , Sasse dos Santos Cristiano , Menine Schaf Frederico , Marques da Rocha Karla
Published: December 2021

As redes proporcionam diversos serviços que auxiliam e automatizam tarefas, entre eles possibilidades de desenvolver trabalhos colaborativos e compartilháveis na área da Educação. Por meio de um estudo de múltiplos casos desenvolveu-se uma pesquisa a partir de observações e entrevistas com servidores das escolas municipais de Santa Maria/RS/Brasil, objetivando demonstrar o cenário atual da disponibilidade dos links de Internet, propondo, como alternativa, uma rede privada entre as escolas. Os resultados demonstraram uma carência dos meios tecnológicos disponíveis nas instituições pesquisadas. Portanto, investimentos públicos em novas redes computacionais podem impulsionar as conexões, possibilitando melhorias entre a comunicação das escolas, independente de seus links de Internet.
Development of Ideas of Philosophy of Law in the Ancient East
Authors: SLYVKA Stepan , HARASYMIV Taras , LEVYTSKA Oksana , KOLYBA Maksym , PANCHENKO Snizhana
Published: December 2021

Any science striving for the creative development of its content cannot be indifferent to its past, to the history of its ideas, discoveries, and conclusions. This idea is entirely related to the philosophy of law - one of the most ancient sciences of law. With the development of humankind, with the formation of the first states, there is a gradual departure from mythology, which is being replaced by philosophy and religion as forms of social consciousness. Traditions of human life are fixed in their norms. Among the norms, the norms of law also function. In the ancient East states, in which powerful theocratic monarchies took shape, the first philosophical and legal views were also formed. The peculiarity of the development of the coun- tries of the Ancient East, when the state became the owner of the land, slaves, etc., leaves its imprint on the formation of political doctrines about the state aimed at substantiating the despotism and omnipotence of the monarch.
Human Identity as Freedom Statement in the Philosophy of Child Education
Authors: ADAMENKO Nadiia , OBLOVA Liudmyla , ALEKSANDROVA Olena , KHRYPKO Lana , MAKSYMETS Oksana , PASKO Katerina , ISHCHUK Alla
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this article is to reveal the specific features of personality-oriented education and to consider how a person, being in dialogue with another person, can declare freedom only by an act of own free will.
To achieve the goal set, the authors have used a set of theoretical and empirical methods of analysis, description, comparison, extrapolation, synthesis, hermeneutic methodology, and a method of implication. Cross-sectional studies and case studies have also been used at the intersection of philosophy and psychology.
It is emphasized that in the Ukrainian framework of the representation, this problem demonstrates the following – the “old” system of education, formed on the principle of necessity, has demonstrated its inef- fective mechanism of action through a system of prohibitions and oppression. The “new” system of educa- tion, built on the principle of freedom, relies on its effectiveness, rejecting necessity and eliminating com- pulsion. However, the methodological error of creating something new by destroying the old and ineffi- cient is becoming more and more evident.
Philosophical Discourse for the Development and Improvement of the Intellectualization of Human Nature
Authors: VASHKEVYCH Viktor , KROKHMAL Nataliia , QI Chen , MORDOUS Iryna , RATUSHNA Taisiia
Published: December 2021

The principal goal of the study is to characterize the philosophical discourse of the development and improvement of human nature in the context of its intellectualization. The article uses a set of methods that make it possible to reveal a philosophical analysis of the development and improvement of human nature in the context of its intellectualization, in particular: general scientific methods; logical methods of theoret- ical analysis; technical analysis, clarification. Because of the study, the philosophical aspects of the devel- opment and improvement of human nature in the context of its intellectualization were characterized. The needs of the modern economic, political, spiritual development of society require further, deeper research of the actual problems of the doctrine of man. Therefore, interest in man and humanity is becoming espe- cially acute, prompting to justify social and cultural transformations.
Philosophical and Historical Perspective of the Development of Electoral Technologies
Authors: NEKRIACH Anastasiia , KOCHUBEI Larysa , PANFILOVA Tetiana , MARCHUK Vasyl , HERBUT Nadiia
Published: December 2021

The main purpose of the article is to characterise the philosophical and historical perspective of the de- velopment of electoral technologies. The methodological basis of the research is conditioned by the pecu- liarities of the research subject, its interdisciplinary nature and expediency of a combination of sociologi- cal, historical-philosophical, political science and other approaches. Philosophical and historical analysis showed that electoral technologies should be understood as a kind of political communication used to ma- nipulate public opinion. In turn, this makes it possible for politicians to have a monopoly on the manage- ment of the electorate in order to obtain its support in the elections. Considering electoral technologies, we must consider their connection and combination with the totality of electoral technologies. That is, it should be noted that the actual electoral process involves the passage of two mega stages: 1) the preparato- ry (pre-election) stage, at which pre-election technologies are applied, and 2) the official election cam- paign itself (purely electoral stage), in the process of which the actual electoral technologies are used.
Technical and Economical Assessment of Vertical Shaft Brick Kiln
Authors:   Associate Professor and Research Director, Madan Bhandari Memorial Academy Nepal, Pokhara University, Urlabari 3, Morang, Nepal, Mishra Anjay Kumar
Published: December 2021

Infrastructure development, particularly the housing problem, is one of the serious issues in developing countries like Nepal. The development of housing complexes is related to various financial and environmental implications. One of the basic parameters involved in the infrastructure development pertinent to Kathmandu valley is the use of alternative materials to masonry unit, particularly bricks. Vertical Shaft Brick Kiln (VSBK) should be adopted and diffused in Nepal because it is high time for energy-efficient and environmentally friendly technologies. Various studies and monitoring has shown that (VSBK) Vertical Shaft Brick Kiln technology is an improved brick making process. The major advantage of VSBK technology is its energy efficiency and environmental friendliness. VSBK consumes 30 to 40% less energy and reduces environmental pollution by 80 to 90% in comparison to FCBTK technology. The Strength of this brick is also higher than FCBTK brick. Further VSBK provides an improved working environment (Reduced Occupational Health Hazards) to the workers.
Freight Vehicle Travel Time Analysis: A Case Study of Birgunj Nagdhunga Corridor
Authors:   Senior Civil Engineer, Sarbottam Cement Pvt. Ltd., Kathmandu, Nepal, Jha Abhishek
Published: December 2021

This study covers the freight vehicle, which clears the custom clearance process for Kathmandu and transports the same goods to Kathmandu from Birgunj. In this study average travel time for freight vehicles from Birgunj to Nagdhunga has been studied, along with the factors affecting the travel time from Birgunj to Nagdhunga. License plate monitoring method of the freight vehicles was done to find the average travel time and a questionnaire survey was done to identify the factors affecting travel time of the freight vehicle. The travel time from Birgunj to Nagdhunga is different for different types of, vehicle and good. The fastest average travel time is of fixed container of 40 feet size with 23.2 hours and longest average time is for fixed container of 20 feet size with 28.95 hours. The average travel time for non-degradable goods is 26.5 hours and for degradable goods is 22.38 hours. Major factors affecting the travel time are traffic congestion along the route, bad road condition along the route and hilly road with sharp bends, turns and grade.
Study of Inefficiencies in Contract Management Practice in Rural Road
Authors:   Visiting Assistant Professor, Construction Project Management, Center for Post Graduate Studies-Nepal Engineering College, Lalitpur, Nepal and Health Infrastructure Policy Development and Procurement Advisor at Nepal Health Sector Support Programme, Bhattarai Subash Kumar
Published: December 2021

The objective of the research is to identify the inefficiencies in contract management practice in the SNRTP sub-projects and also the sources of these inefficiencies will try to find the probable solutions. To study the inefficiencies in contract management practice in SNRTP rural road projects, the checklist was prepared and data regarding the contract management were obtained with the project stakeholders. The data were collected using questionnaires, analysed using SPSS software, MS Excel and presented using the graph, table, and charts.The findings of the study showed that there are significant inefficiencies in contract management practice in the SNRTP project. It has been found that the majority of the respondents i.e. 79 percent of the experts interviewed opined that there are inefficiencies in the contract management practices in the rural road under SNRTP sub-projects, and only 21 percent think that the process is efficient from questionnaire survey. This has been statistically verified through descriptive statistics. The reason behind the inefficiencies in Contract Management Practice is mainly due to a lack of qualifications, knowledge, skills & experience of the contract management team, lack of cooperation & proper communication between project team member, lack of monitoring & evaluation in time, lack of timely meetings, slow decisions making, and improper planning & poor site management during the construction work. To overcome those inefficiencies some suggestions have been recommended as appointing the team member with proper qualifications, knowledge, skills & experience in the contract management. Proper communication & cooperation between team member, frequent inspection, monitoring and evaluation, completion of work within intended completion time, proper record keeping & timely issue management, and timely decision making from all stakeholders as required in construction work during the project implementation phase.
Review on Automated Elevator-an Attentive Elevator to Elevate using Speech Recognition
Authors:   Students, Information Technology Department, Matoshri College of Engineering and Research Centre, Nashik, Maharashtra, India, Patil Vishakha
Published: December 2021

Elevator has over time become an important part of our day-to-day life. It is used as an everyday transport device useful to move goods as well as persons. In the modern world, the city and crowded areas require multiform buildings. According to wheelchair access laws, elevators/lifts are a must requirement in new multi-stored buildings. The main purpose of this project is to operate the elevator by voice command. The project is operating based on voice, which could help handicap people or dwarf people to travel from one place to another without the help of any other person. The use of a microcontroller is to control different devices and integrate each module, namely- voice module, motor module, and LCD. LCD is used to display the present status of the lift. The reading edge of our project is the “voice recognition system” which genet’s exceptional result while recognizing speech.
A Study on Advertisement and Marketing Strategies on Xiaomi Brand in Coimbatore City
Authors:   Professor, Department of Commerce in BPS, Dr. NGP Arts and Science College, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India, Renugadevi S
Published: December 2021

With the intense development and growth of China’s mobile communication and technology industry, many manufacturers have come up to take the advantage of growing market of mobile phone users. Approximately 1 billion people own a smartphone. This has led to birth of many of the world’s famous mobile phone brands. One of the major brands, emerged in 2010 was Xiaomi. In this paper, background of Xiaomi’s, its marketing strategies, business models have been presented. Also, comparative analysis of marketing strategy of Xiaomi and other manufacturers has been done to understand the reasons for the market success and the exponential growth exhibited by the company. The current state of information available through various platforms has been used to perform the study. It has been inferred that, the primary reason for this exceptional growth has been the product quality at cheaper rate with a focus on customer feedback and requirements. The testimony to this fact is its ever-expanding portfolio into various domains such as smart TVs, Speakers, home appliances, personal computers to name a few.
Research on management evaluation of enterprise sales cash flow percentage method based on the application of quadratic linear regression equations
Authors: Gao Fanxiu , Alotaibi Reem , Abo Keir Mohammed Yousuf
Published: December 2021

This article introduces an improved sales percentage method to quantitatively calculate the evaluation process of the corporate sales cash flow percentage method in order to obtain more evidence-based financial data and increase the accuracy of the evaluation results. At the same time, the paper uses SPSS to perform regression analysis on related financial indicators and sales revenue and obtains quadratic regression equations and linear regression equations. The thesis predicts other financial index data based on the predicted future sales revenue, uses the revised linear regression equation to obtain the company's future net cash flow and calculates the company value.
Information technology of preschool education reform of fine arts based on fractional differential equation
Authors: Wu Yue , Zhang Yina , Alotaibi Fahd S , Al-Hamami Mohammad Alaa
Published: December 2021

Objective

To study the information reform of preschool education of fine arts under fractional differential equation. Methods: In this paper, the fractional Navier-Stokes equations are compared with the traditional models through some numerical experiments, which provides a certain basis for future physical application. In order to improve students’ comprehensive ability and quality, we should strengthen education and teaching in all aspects, and art education is a more important aspect. The results show that the numerical solution of the integral equation with different values is close to a point at x = 1, that is, u (1) = 0.5.

Conclusion

In the current preschool education professional art education teaching process, the use of information technology means has become a necessary teaching requirement and need to improve the teaching effect, and the quality is of great significance and value, thus ensuring better able to carry out education of fine arts teaching, which enables students for better development, guarantees for a better future that is better for preschool education.
Use of Photogrammetry in Documenting Ruins/Traces of Cultural Heritage Not Surviving to the Present Day: A Comparative Case Study
Authors: Pehlivan Gamze Fahriye
Published: December 2021

Preservation of cultural heritage is our duty, but there are situations where the heritage cannot be preserved. In this case, if ruins and/or traces of building remain, they should be documented. The aim of this study is to recommend simple, quick and easily-applicable solutions for documentation studies of ruins of cultural heritage that was not preserved. In the extent of this study, a cultural heritage that could not preserve its existence till today but whose place was determined thanks to its traces is dealt with. Iasos Ancient City Theatre, which is the focus of the study, does not exist but its ruins should be documented. For this particular example, photogrammetry was used instead of traditional survey technique that is quite difficult to be applied. As a method, two different photograph-based programs made for photogrammetry were used and after comparing according to 6 criteria, advantages and disadvantages were presented. According to the findings, it can be said that there is no dimensional difference between two programs and both can be applicable.
Effects of observing real, animated and combined model on learning cognitive and motor levels of basketball jump shot in children
Authors: Ghavami Akbar , Samadi Hossein , Dana Amir , Ghorbani Saeed
Published: December 2021

Study aim: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of observing the real, animated and combined model demonstrations on cognitive and motor learning of a basketball jump shot.

Material and methods: Forty-five subjects with mean age of (11.03 ± 1.7) were randomly divided into three groups: real, animated and combined model demonstrations. Subjects were asked to perform basketball jump shot task during a four-step process. In total, participants shot 150 shots (10 shots in the pretest, 120 shots and 40 observations in the practice phase, and 10 shots in the posttest and the retention test). Accuracy scores and cognitive status were assessed as dependent variables.

Results: Results showed that observation of real, animated and combined model demonstrations had significant effects on motor and cognitive learning of a basketball jump shot. Moreover, there was no significant difference between observing animated model and real model demonstrations at motor level, however, animated model demonstration group performed better than real model group at cognitive level. Finally, combined model demonstration group performed better than both animated and real model demonstrations groups.

Conclusions: Results suggested that observing animated model demonstration is an appropriate approach for learning basketball jump shot even in children. It is also recommended to use animated model demonstration as a complement to real model.
Changes in Habitat Conditions of Invaded Forest Communities in Podunajská Nížina and the Impact of Non-Native Species on Biodiversity (SW Slovakia)
Authors: Lukovičová Monika , Balanac Zuzana , David Stanislav
Published: December 2021

With the phytocenological research of riparian mixed forests and pannonic woods in the Podunajská nížina in 2018 and 2019, we obtained 113 phytocenological relevés of invaded and non-invaded stands. Using the Modified Permutation Test, we derived modified Ellenberg indication values (EIVs) in order to determine statistically significant differences and correlation relationships between diversity indices and EIVs. We recorded 15 invasive species in the stands, for example, Ailanthus altissima, Ambrosia artemisiifolia, Asclepias syriaca, Aster lanceolatus, Helianthus tuberosus, Impatiens parviflora, Negundo aceroides, Solidago canadensis, S. gigantea and Robinia pseudoacacia. We also confirmed the occurrence of species important for conservation: Epipactis helleborine agg., E. voethii, Cephalanthera longifolia, Clematis integrifolia and the like. We tested the statistical significance of EIVs as explanatory variables by redundancy analysis and Monte Carlo permutation test (stepwise selection, number of permutations 499, p < 0.05). In addition to the EIV continentality, the contribution of light, moisture, nutrients, soil reaction and temperature was higher than random. The model explains 20.21% of the variability pursuant to the coefficient of determination (R
2), with its adjusted (more accurate) variant (R
2
adj) capturing 15.70% of the variability of the model. Using the Kruskal–Wallis test, we confirmed the statistically significant differences (p*) in mean values between count of species, Shannon–Wiener index, Simpson dominance index and taxonomic diversity of invaded and non-invaded vegetation. For EIVs, we found significant differences in the mean values for moisture and soil reaction factors. In our model, count of species, Shannon–Wiener index, Simpson dominance index and taxonomic diversity index were positively correlated with invaded stands. Non-invaded stands showed statistically significant negative correlation with the EIVs moisture, soil reaction and nutrients. Biotic indices are appropriate and sensitive metrics for assessing the rate of community invasion. Lowland riparian forests are dynamic ecosystems through the structure of their stands and the dynamics of the nutrient and energy cycle of the river landscape. After disturbance (fire, wind, logging), the high degree of invasibility makes them vulnerable to the infiltration and spread of non-native species, which is a problem, especially in protected areas.
Abundance and Diurnal Time Activity Budget of the Threatened Species White-Headed Ducks (Anatidae: Oxyura leucocephala) in an Unprotected Area, Boussedra Marsh, Northeast Algeria
Authors: Amine Hennouni Mohamed , Rabah Zebsa , Zinette Bensakhri , Abdeldjalil Youcefi , Mouslim Bara , Sadek Atoussi , Mohammed Djekoune , Menouar Saheb , Moussa Houhamdi
Published: December 2021

The white-headed duck is a globally threatened species and its populations have become fragmented and undergone major decline in recent decades. Changes including long-term abundance (five times from 2005 to 2018) and diurnal activity budget (2010−2011 and 2017−2018) with respect to the effect of habitat features at Boussedra marsh (unprotected area) were compiled in order to fill some gaps in the status and trend of North African populations. The population size of the white-headed duck decreased over years from 2010 to 2018 by about 52.81%, and was positively associated with interior vegetation area, but not significantly with water surface area. Trends of population dynamics differed among seasons, and the number was higher in wintering than breeding season. Sleeping (44.93%, 23.74%) and feeding (59.09%, 27.43%) were the dominant diurnal activities at both the years of study, respectively. Boussedra marsh plays an important ecological role as a diurnal forging habitat and reproduction site for this threatened species and as a shelter for other waterfowl.
Using of Laplacian Re-decomposition image fusion algorithm for glioma grading with SWI, ADC, and FLAIR images
Authors: Khorasani Amir , Tavakoli Mohamad Bagher , Saboori Masih
Published: December 2021

Introduction: Based on the tumor’s growth potential and aggressiveness, glioma is most often classified into low or high-grade groups. Traditionally, tissue sampling is used to determine the glioma grade. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficiency of the Laplacian Re-decomposition (LRD) medical image fusion algorithm for glioma grading by advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images and introduce the best image combination for glioma grading.

Material and methods: Sixty-one patients (17 low-grade and 44 high-grade) underwent Susceptibility-weighted image (SWI), apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) map, and Fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) MRI imaging. To fuse different MRI image, LRD medical image fusion algorithm was used. To evaluate the effectiveness of LRD in the classification of glioma grade, we compared the parameters of the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC).

Results: The average Relative Signal Contrast (RSC) of SWI and ADC maps in high-grade glioma are significantly lower than RSCs in low-grade glioma. No significant difference was detected between low and high-grade glioma on FLAIR images. In our study, the area under the curve (AUC) for low and high-grade glioma differentiation on SWI and ADC maps were calculated at 0.871 and 0.833, respectively.

Conclusions: By fusing SWI and ADC map with LRD medical image fusion algorithm, we can increase AUC for low and high-grade glioma separation to 0.978. Our work has led us to conclude that, by fusing SWI and ADC map with LRD medical image fusion algorithm, we reach the highest diagnostic accuracy for low and high-grade glioma differentiation and we can use LRD medical fusion algorithm for glioma grading.
Dosimetric accuracy of a cross-calibration coefficient for plane-parallel ionization chamber obtained in low-energy electron beams using various cylindrical dosimeters
Authors: Polaczek-Grelik Kinga , Kawa-Iwanicka Aneta , Michalecki Łukasz
Published: December 2021

Introduction: The accuracy of the cross-calibration procedure depends on ionization chamber type, both used as reference one and under consideration. Also, the beam energy and phantom medium could influence the precision of cross calibration coefficient, resulting in a systematic error in dose estimation and thus could influence the linac beam output checking. This will result in a systematic mismatch between dose calculated in treatment planning system and delivered to the patient.

Material and methods: The usage of FC65-G, CC13 and CC01 thimble reference chambers as well as 6, 9, and 15 MeV electron beams has been analyzed. A plane-parallel PPC05 chamber was calibrated since scarce literature data are available for this dosimeter type. The influence of measurement medium and an effective point of measurement (EPOM) on obtained results are also presented.

Results: Dose reconstruction precision of ~0.1% for PPC05 chamber could be obtained when cross-calibration is based on a thimble CC13 chamber. Nd,w,Qcross obtained in beam ≥ 9MeV gives 0.1 – 0.5% precision of dose reconstruction.

Without beam quality correction, 15 MeV Nd,w,Qcross is 10% lower than Co-60 Nd,w,0. Various EPOM shifts resulted in up to 0.6% discrepancies in Nd,w,Qcross values.

Conclusions: Ionization chamber with small active volume and tissue-equivalent materials supplies more accurate cross-calibration coefficients in the range of 6 – 15 MeV electron beams. In the case of 6 and 9 MeV beams, the exact position of an effective point of measurement is of minor importance. In-water cross-calibration coefficient can be used in a solid medium without loss of dose accuracy.
Strategic Potential of Agricultural Waste as a Feedstock for Biofuels Production in Ukraine
Authors: Tokarchuk Dina , Pryshliak Natalia , Shynkovych Andrii , Mazur Kateryna
Published: December 2021

Ukraine’s agriculture is a leading sector of the national economy. Ukraine has a significant area (603628 km2), 70.9% of which are agricultural lands. Quality soil and good climatic conditions create favorable conditions for the development of crop and livestock production. The generation of a large amount of organic waste from agriculture opens wide opportunities for the development of the biogas technologies. The aim of the paper is to identify the main waste management trends in Ukraine based on data on waste generation and waste management and to calculate the strategic potential of agricultural waste as a feedstock for biofuels production. The resource potential of crop, livestock and processing waste has been considered and the necessity of its use for energy purposes has been substantiated. It has been determined that the greatest potential of agricultural waste that can be used for biogas production in Ukraine is concentrated in crop production. The livestock industry and processing enterprises also have a powerful feedstock base for biogas production. It has been determined that the agroindustrial sector of Ukraine produces significant amount of waste. As a result of the study, it has been found that the potential volume of biogas production from agricultural waste can replace 36.1% of natural gas consumption in Ukraine.
Green Transportation in the Šiauliai Regional Companies
Authors: Beniušienė Ineta , Jankauskienė Aida
Published: December 2021

A relevant and practical research object is analysed in the article – the implementation resolution of green transportation and the benefits of using such means. In this article, object is analysed from the interdisciplinary position, i.e. from the perspective of transportation, one of the logistical subsystems, and sustainable environment. The transportation department is undoubtedly an important guarantor of economic and industrial development. Despite the worldwide importance of transportation in everyday activities, the transportation also poses the risk for human health and life quality, for it is one of the biggest consumer of oil products and significantly contributes towards air pollution. Despite many theoretical and empirical researches, Šiauliai region still lacks an approach towards the implementation possibilities and studies revealing the benefits of green transportation. A comparative analysis has been performed by using the survey data, collected from 402 workers, responsible for transportation, working for Šiauliai regional companies. According to the results of the research for implementation situations of green transport in Šiauliai regional companies, the representatives of regional companies understand the importance of green transport, and more and more companies aim to reduce the environmental risk and to become more competitive. Integrated transportation by combining several means of transport, cargo consolidation by combining small orders and big orders, and ecological driving are the green transportation measures implemented most in regional companies. The typical benefits of green transport are increased environmental friendliness and improved relationship with consumers.
Evaluation of patatin content in proteins of potato genotypes grown in Latvia
Authors: Berga Dace , Sterna Vita , Sokolova Elina , Taskova Inese , Seile Sanita , Dimante Ilze , Skrabule Ilze
Published: December 2021

Potato proteins contains essential amino acids in considerably high concentration, therefore potatoes are considered to be one of the most valuable plant origin food for human consumption. Patatin forms one of the largest group of potato proteins with high potential to be used in food industry as a novel food. This study has been performed to approbate patatin determination method for evaluation of protein quality of potato genotypes, as well as evaluate patatin relative abundance (PRA) for breeding programmes to create in the future potato cultivars with higher value and potential to develop new products.

The evaluation of patatin was performed in following steps– extraction proteins from potato, determination of patatin concentration and calculation of its relative abundance in proteins. Separation of patatin from potato tubers was made using extraction by SDS extraction buffer and determination of patatin in organically and conventionally (with differnt N suply) grown samples of 20 potato genotypes. The results of one-year study showed that patatin relative abundance of different cultivars varied from 1.65% to 50.2% and it was significantly different among genotypes. The nitrogen content of soil and maturity type of potato did not affect PRA significantly. Results provide impetus for further research.
Comparison of local recurrence in transcatheter arterial chemoembolization of hepatocellular carcinoma with or without accumulation of iodized oil beyond corona enhancement area: Short-term results
Authors: Watanabe Yukinobu , Ogawa Masahiro , Kaneko Masahiro , Kumagawa Mariko , Hirayama Midori , Matsumoto Naoki , Nakagawara Hiroshi , Yamamoto Toshiki , Moriyama Mitsuhiko
Published: December 2021

Background

Local tumor recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) often occurs in blood drainage areas. Corona enhancement is determined by computed tomography during hepatic arteriography (CTHA) and is considered to represent the blood drainage area. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between embolization of corona enhancement area and local tumor recurrence of patients with HCC who underwent transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE).

Patients and methods

The study retrospectively selected 53 patients with 60 HCC nodules that showed corona enhancement area on late-phase CTHA and showed homogenous accumulation of iodized oil throughout the nodule on non-contrast-enhanced CT performed immediately after TACE. We divided the nodules into two groups, according to whether the accumulation of iodized oil covered the entire corona enhancement area (group A) or not (group B). Local tumor recurrence was compared between the two groups.

Results

The cumulative local tumor recurrence rates for group A (n = 36) were 2.8%, 2.8%, 8.3% at 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively, whereas the recurrence rates for group B (n = 24) were 20.8%, 45.8%, 75% at 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively. The cumulative local tumor recurrence rates for group A were significantly lower than those for group B (hazard ratio, 0.079; 95% confidence interval, 0.026–0.24; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The results of the study suggest that the corona enhancement area may be an accurate safety margin in TACE which should be performed until the embolic area covers the entire corona enhancement area.
Clinical impacts of copy number variations in B-cell differentiation and cell cycle control genes in pediatric B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia: a single centre experience
Authors: Crepinsek Klementina , Marinsek Gasper , Kavcic Marko , Prelog Tomaž , Kitanovski Lidija , Jazbec Janez , Debeljak Marusa
Published: December 2021

Background

IKZF1 gene deletions have been identified as a poor prognostic factor in pediatric B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL), especially in the presence of co-occurring deletions (IKZF1
plus profile). This study aimed to determine the frequency of IKZF1 deletions and deletions in other B-cell differentiation and cell cycle control genes, and their prognostic impact in Slovenian pediatric B-ALL patients.

Patients and methods

We studied a cohort of 99 patients diagnosed with B-ALL from January 2012 to December 2020 and treated according to the ALL IC-BFM 2009 protocol. Eighty-eight bone marrow or peripheral blood samples were analysed for copy number variations (CNVs) using the SALSA MLPA P335 ALL-IKZF1 probemix.

Results

At least one CNV was detected in more than 65% of analysed samples. The most frequently altered genes were PAX5 and CDKN2A/B (30.7%, 26.1%, and 25.0%, respectively). Deletions in IKZF1 were present in 18.2% of analysed samples and were associated with an inferior 5-year event-free survival (EFS; 54.8% vs. 85.9%, p = 0.016). The IKZF1
plus profile was identified in 12.5% of the analysed samples, and these patients had an inferior 5-year EFS than those with deletions in IKZF1 only and those without deletions (50.8% vs. 75.0% vs. 85.9%, respectively, p = 0.049). Overall survival (OS) was also worse in patients with the IKZF1
plus profile than those with deletions in IKZF1 only and those without deletions (5-year OS 76.2% vs. 100% vs. 93.0%, respectively). However, the difference between the groups was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Our results are in concordance with the results obtained in larger cooperative clinical trials. Copy number variations analysis using the SALSA MLPA kit is a reliable tool for initial diagnostic approach in children with B-ALL, even in smaller institutions in low- and middle-income countries.