bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the ‘forgotten fundamental’ in policy advisory systems research: Policy shops and the role(s) of core policy professionals
Authors: Migone Andrea , Howlett Michael
Published: August 2023

During the past 30 years, research on policy analytical capacity's multidimensional nature and the evolution of policy advisory systems (PASs) has both increased knowledge of these processes and structures and opened new avenues of inquiry. While it is clear that changes in PASs in many countries have occurred - featuring processes such as the increased externalisation and politicisation of policy advice - studies of changes among the roles played by core policy professionals in advice provision have lagged. One aspect of this question concerns the nature and extent of changes in this ‘forgotten fundamental’ of advice systems related to how these professionals are arrayed within ‘policy shops’—that is organisational units identified in the 1960s and 1970s as the main organisational home of policy professionals in government. Whether or not such shops have changed from the central-integrated model identified in early studies and, if so, how, remain outstanding and foundational questions. Recent research in Canada has mapped the distribution of policy professionals at the central and provincial level and found more types of analysts and venues than in earlier eras— which range from the ‘classical’ integrated policy shops of the 1960s and 1970s which remain in central agencies and single-purpose line departments to the much more 'distributed' patterns found in many departments dealing with multiple or complex controversial issues. Using Canadian data, this study outlines the development of these organisational types and their distribution in government and discusses the implications of these changes for better understanding the work, and needs, of core professionals in policy advice systems. .
Hair and Hat Ritual Shaming Punishments in Nineteenth-Century Iran
Authors: Vejdani Farzin
Published: August 2023

This article considers three temporary and reversible penal shaming acts in nineteenth-century Iran: the shaving or cutting of hair, irrespective of gender; the shaving or cutting of men's facial hair; and the forcible removal of headgear or the coerced wearing of silly headgear. Drawing on anthropological, historical, and sociological studies of hair, this study argues that hair and hat punishments embodied elements of ritual, sexuality, social control, and marginalization. In order to understand the meaning of these penal acts, the article looks at general taboos around hair and head exposure alongside licit and voluntary forms of cutting or shaving hair. Illicit sex, heresy, and alcohol consumption were recurring moral crimes most often associated with such forms of humiliating punishment. Since restoration of honor was not the sole prerogative of the government, these punishments were often carried out by those acting on behalf of a religious authority or individually and collectively by ordinary subjects outraged by a moral violation.
An Investigation into the Resilience and Durability of High R-Value Exterior Insulated Wood Framed Walls in Cold Climates Assessed Using In-Situ Measurement and Calibrated Hygrothermal Modeling
Authors: Henderson James
Published: August 2023

Super-insulated building envelopes are more energy efficient than Canadian building codes require but a particular design may not be resilient when subjected to different Canadian climates. This research evaluated the hygrothermal performance of a nominal 2x6 framed assembly with 75-225 mm of exterior mineral fiber sheathing insulation in climates across Canada. Variations of the design with and without variable permeability membranes were constructed and monitored. Results from climate chamber and in-situ monitoring were used to calibrate hygrothermal simulations. The research demonstrates that variable permeability membranes do not necessarily keep a wall drier than a traditional 6 mil poly vapour barrier and that the amount of exterior insulation can play a more important role in moisture management and resilience. Results from the climate chamber, in-situ monitoring and hygrothermal simulations demonstrated that the walls performed satisfactorily and all were able to dry under typical operating conditions.
Rooftop Rainwater Control - Combining Storage Tank, Vegetation and Rooftop Retention
Authors: Adity Atika Tasnim
Published: August 2023

Over the past few years, rapid urbanization, population growth and the projected climate change have contributed to global water scarcity and urban flooding. Thus, the rainwater harvesting system in buildings is getting popular for increasing water efficiency and reducing stormwater runoff. However, it is required to size the rainwater harvesting system adequately for improving its operation. An oversized system increases the capital cost, while an undersized system results in an unreliable water source. Therefore, the storage tank's sizing is the most critical objective for optimizing the overall system in a dense urban location. Rainwater harvesting system and the vegetated roof technology can be particularly promising to address the issue because the vegetated roof and blue roof perform very well as a stormwater management tool by providing reduced stormwater runoff generation. The research identified the factors involved in managing runoff from a complex set of rooftop arrangements, having partially vegetated and non-vegetated areas and developed a set of guidelines to optimize the rainwater harvesting system by utilizing vegetated roofs. The research analyzed four mid-rise buildings of the Ryerson University campus, and the results confirmed that an increase in the total percentage of vegetated area coverage reduces the rainwater storage tank size to a great extent. For a small institutional building, a 40% agricultural roof performs the best for meeting the outside non-potable water demand reducing the annual overflow from the tank. For 60% vegetated area coverage, the municipal service water must supplement the rainwater to meet the total water demand. In terms of substrate depth, 150mm yields the most reasonable benefit. Finally, a blue roof should be combined with a vegetated roof to maximize the stormwater retention and detention onsite. 
A Novel Method to Assess Long-Term Building Energy Consumption Variation through Weather Normalization and Multiple Year Building Energy Simulation
Authors: Tam Claire
Published: August 2023

Building energy performance is subject to influences such as weather variations, changes in the building conditions, as well as changes in occupant behaviour and operational schemes. This research builds on and improves the efficacy of the Degree-days Ratio-based method, a commonly used weather normalization method, by way of introducing a weighting exponent and excluding the consumption values during the “Shoulder Season” months in the dataset for deriving an indicator of the changes in building condition or system operations over years. These two proposed schemes were tested using both simulated and measured space heating and cooling energy consumption data. Prototype commercial building models were simulated with published Typical Year (CWEC2016) and Historical Year Weather Data (CWEEDS 1998-2014). Based on standard deviation and CVRMSE figures between the normalized values and the reference value simulated using Typical Year weather data, the proposed method resulted in less year-to-year energy consumption variations when compared to two conventional methods. The measured energy consumption data of an in-service Case Study Building were weather-normalized to derive an energy consumption variation trend. Normalizing with the proposed method yielded a more definitive energy consumption variation trend which is indicative of the long-term energy performance due to changes in building condition and operational schemes.
Adapting Passive House to Toronto’s Existing Housing Stock Through Deep Energy Retrofits
Authors: Vimal Vithusan
Published: August 2023

This study researches the development of a multi-objective optimization environment to continue the investigation of the potential for housing in Toronto to meet Passive House certification. BEopt was utilized to develop various deep energy retrofits for century detached, century-semi, and wartime archetype homes in Toronto, ON. The optimization environment utilized various design retrofits to develop configurations of variables which minimize energy use and life cycle cost. The developed solutions were input into WUFI Passive to determine which combination of variables can achieve Passive House certification for the lowest cost. The optimization results demonstrated that for a life cycle cost of $65,053-$92,950 depending on geometry and housing type, an archetype home in Toronto can reduce energy use by 69-72% percent and can meet standards for Passive House. Although these numbers include average pricing data, assumptions, and generalizations, the findings of this research demonstrate the applicability of high performance building standards to be retrofit to existing homes to allow sustainability in the built environment to be achieved. 
Towards Development of a 1980’s Greater Hamilton Area Single Detached Residential Housing Archetype: Retrofitting to the Performance Levels of Net Zero Energy Ready
Authors: Simpson Tyler
Published: August 2023

This research defined attributes of existing residential housing in the Greater Hamilton Area for the development of an archetype model that would represent a two-storey single detached house to investigate the potential of the existing housing stock to achieve Net Zero Energy Ready performance. Energy modelling displayed significant alteration of the building enclosure was required to accomplish Net Zero Energy Ready performance. A hygrothermal analysis of the above grade wall assemblies concluded caution should be applied when implementing a double stud wall assembly and consideration should be given to the permeability of the exterior insulation when a low permeance interior membrane is present. The findings of this research supported the development of the first archetype model to represent the Greater Hamilton Area that identified retrofit strategies that can reduce the energy consumption of the existing single detached housing stock, while acknowledging solutions that ensured durability was preserved. 
A Methodological Approach to Predict and Estimate Air Leakage Through a Window-To-Wall Interface in Wood Frame Construction
Authors: Elnaffar Asalah
Published: August 2023

Airtightness is an important phenomenon in building performance. Poor building airtightness can impact the IAQ, indoor comfort conditions, building envelope’s structural integrity, occupant’s health, and building energy performance. It is well documented that window-to-wall interfaces are an area of reoccurring air leakage location, contributing 15% to 35% to whole building air leakage. Therefore, there is a demand for adequate prediction methods to estimate air leakage through the window-to-wall joint to assist builders and designers in making cost-effective design decisions prior to construction. The objective of this study was to further an approach to model preconstruction relative airtightness of differing window-to-wall joint detail designs and variation in field construction. This research was done to further the work already conducted in determining if an experimentally based methodology can be used to alter predictions of whole building airtightness in new construction at the pre-construction phases of development (Khemet & Richman, 2020). An empirically-based design of experiments was created using a 23x3 factorial design to quantify the impact of air leakage through the window-to-wall joint. The four main effects that were selected for analysis were pressure, shim type, sealant technique, and detail length. The multiple linear regression model explained up to 38.7% of the air leakage through the joint (R=0.6387, p<0.001). The results of the experiment established an approach to predicting relative air leakage of varying window-to-wall joints. 
Utilizing Pareto Optimality to Identify Multiobjective Optimized Multi-Unit Residential Building Unit Design with Respect to Daylighting and Energy Consumption
Authors: Blazevski Benett
Published: August 2023

Canadians spend most of their time in their dwelling. Meanwhile, the densification of cities has trended toward multi-unit residential buildings (MURB) becoming the dominant residential building type, yet their study has been neglected despite their prevalence throughout Canada. This building typology is known to provide poor visual comfort and can also be typically characterized by poor energy performance. These issues of inadequate daylighting and poor energy performance form a complex relationship and are often juxtaposed in regard to passive building design – design that benefits one of these aspects likely will hamper the other. Despite this, they have rarely been studied together, particularly in the MURB setting. This study investigated the complex relationship between these two variables within parameterized MURB units utilizing the novel climate-based daylight modelling (CBDM) and energy modelling tool, ClimateStudio. The results were analyzed through the lens of a Pareto optimality analysis, a multiobjective optimization method that generates a series of optimized solutions. Due to the lack of consensus in the daylighting field, other daylighting variables were investigated, including daylight schedules, various dynamic daylighting metrics, and proximity to a neighbouring building. The main results revealed which model iterations were deemed optimal based on the Pareto front generated in the analysis. These multiobjective optimized units and the trends between them were discussed to determine what can be utilized to guide future MURB design, such as maximizing north and south facades while minimizing east and west facades, designing balanced aspect ratios, and more. 
Fabrication of Anisotropic Polymer Materials by Polymerization-Induced Phase Separation (PIPS) Under External Fields: Computational Analysis
Authors: Ghaﬀari Shima
Published: August 2023

Functionalities and structural properties of multiphase polymeric materials can be modified by imposing external forces to the mixture undergoing phase separation resulting in non-uniform anisotropic microstructures. Anisotropic heterogeneous polymeric materials have practical engineering applications such as anisotropic porous polymer membranes and switchable holographic polymer-dispersed liquid crystal films. Anisotropy can be generated by applying singly or in combination, an external force like shear flow, electric or magnetic field, surface effect, controlled chemical reaction, concentration gradient, or temperature gradient to a polymer solution undergoing phase separation. In this study, the self-condensation polymerization of a monomer in a monomer-solvent mixture and phase separation of the system were simultaneously modeled and simulated. The numerical Galerkin finite-element method was applied to develop the mathematical model. Short-range surface potential, long-range surface potential, and linear temperature and concentration gradients were applied singly and also simultaneously to the system undergoing the polymerization-induced phase separation (PIPS). The expected non- uniform structures were achieved. A comprehensive parametric study was carried out by investigating the effects of diffusivity, temperature gradient, concentration gradient, and surface potential parameter on the lag time, process time, morphology development, thickness of the wetting layer, and the extent of anisotropy of the system. The size analysis and structural characterization of the phase-separated system were also carried out using ImageJ 1.51j8 which is an image processing and analysis software. The numerical results are in good agreement with published experimental data.
Analysis and Data Collection of Solubility of ATRP Reagents in Emulsion Process
Authors: Elebiyo Bolarinwa
Published: August 2023

This work focuses on thermodynamics analysis involved in polymer solutions. Several processes adopt different methods of polymerization systems to achieve desired end- product properties of polymer products. Since these are solutions that are not ideal, it gives concerns about what methods or conditions are suitable to achieve the desired products. Understanding the fundamentals of polymer solution thermodynamics is therefore a very important research theme. A thorough literature review helps an understanding of the behavior of polymer solutions as it relates the thermodynamics of the mixing components and the extent of miscibility of substances. In particular, the Flory- Huggins and Gibbs contributions to the thermodynamics of phases in solutions are significant. Miscibility of components in the ATRP (Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization) in dispersed media process is of great concern. Solubility and partitioning of ATRP reagents such as the halogen initiator and metallic catalyst between the aqueous phase and organic phases have been reviewed and analyzed for further understanding of the ATRP process in emulsion process. 
Detection and Mitigation of IP Spoofing and SYN Flooding DDoS Attacks in Cloud Computing
Authors: Khan Mohammed Arsalan Ali
Published: August 2023

Denial of Distributed Services (DDoS) is one of the significant threats to cloud computing. The attacker can affect the machine’s availability, and traditional defense strategies are difficult to apply to cloud computing due to their poor availability and high storage requirements. There are multiple different types of DDoS attacks such as IP Spoofing, SYN flooding, smurf, buffer overflow, ping of death, land and finally, teardrop attack. Among these, SYN Flooding and IP Spoofing are the most common and effective attacks these days. 

This thesis will focus on implementing a security algorithm to improve the two most common DDoS attacks in cloud computing. First, we will implement a simple detection mechanism using operating system fingerprinting for IP Spoofing and Confidence-Based Filtering pattern recognition with timestamp parameters for SYN Flooding attacks. After an attack is detected, a simple shared cloud-based database is updated for both legitimate connection and illegitimate connection for mitigation purposes. To mitigate an IP Spoof attack, source IP address filtering is used to allow only traffic with legitimate source IP addresses to access the network. For the purpose of mitigating SYN Flooding attacks, a prevention technique is used to classify the attack sources and discard traffic from such sources. In a secure cloud environment, we test our proposed algorithm and literature security methods for better comparison. The result shows that our proposed algorithm has counter literature methods drawbacks and allowed a more legitimate connection with less error. 
Review on the Effects of Hydrothermal Pre-treatment of Thickened Waste Activated Sludge for Fermentation and Anaerobic Digestion Process
Authors: Tadesse Frew Abebe
Published: August 2023

Municipal solid waste treatment and disposal have become one of the major concerns in waste management due to the excessive production of waste and higher-level of pollution. To address these challenges and protect the environment in sustainable ways, the hydrothermal pre-treatment technique coupled with anaerobic digestion becomes a preferred alternative technology that can be used for municipal solid waste stabilization and production of renewable energy. Hence this study was conducted to review the effect of hydrothermal pre-treatment of thickened waste activated sludge for fermentation and anaerobic digestion process. Accordingly, the majority of the results confirmed that there is a positive effect on the fermentation/acidification process and biogas production. Fermentation of TWAS at pre-treatment temperature ranges from 1600C to 1800C resulted up to 50% increase in VFAs yield compared to the raw sample. Whereas, for AD process, HTP in the range of 1750C to 2000C with 60 minute retention time was considered as the optimal condition for higher biogas production. 30% increase in biodegradability of waste activated sludge and higher than 55% of biogas production was obtained at the optimal range. Even though there is a direct relationship between increased HTP and the hydrolysis of WAS, a pre-treatment temperature range beyond 2000C alters the biogas production. 
Towards an Evidence-Based Value-for-Money Assessment Methodology: Consideration of Innovation, Flexibility, and Risks in Public-Private Partnerships
Authors: Zhang Jing
Published: August 2023

Public-private partnerships (PPPs) have been advocated as an effective delivery model that promotes innovation, flexibility and efficient risk allocations. Value for Money (VfM) assessment is a crucial decision-supporting tool in the developing process. However, the current assessment methods suffer from subjectivity and ambiguity. The thesis documents the doctoral research in developing an integrated probabilistic VfM assessment framework that characterizes the interaction among innovations, flexibility, and risks in PPPs based on multiple research methods including personal interview, empirical data analysis, analytical model and framework development. The study consists of four major pieces, each representing a published or to-be- published journal article. 

The first paper deals with empirical evidences of the use of engineering innovations in Canada’s PPP market. Personal interview was employed in the study. The empirical evidence proves that PPPs does provide unique innovation opportunities and scope. 

The second paper presents a direct comparative analysis between traditional and PPP projects by tracking the cost and schedule performance data in Canadian market. The research demonstrates that PPPs outperform traditional models on cost and schedule performance during the construction stage. 

The third paper presents a stochastic modelling methodology to evaluate the lifecycle cost risk considering maintenance flexibility, characterizing the complex interaction among the lifecycle cost, performance deterioration, and maintenance strategies. Simulation-based optimization and dynamic programming analysis are used to determine the probability distributions of the lifecycle cost and the VfM. The study shows that the lifecycle cost risk is not fully transferred to the private party. 

Finally, the fourth and last paper integrates the results from the previous three papers and develops a probabilistic VfM assessment framework to incorporate interaction between value drivers and uncertainty sources based on empirical evidences. A new VfM assessment paradigm using the probability of negative VfM as the decision criterion is recommended. 

The proposed VfM framework makes use of the best empirical evidences available, and when empirical data are not available, some credible analytical models to quantify the value and risks associated with the value drivers. The proposed framework has painted a clear road map to enhance the objectivity and validity of the VfM assessment. 
Stochastic Degradation Modelling for Parks Pathways
Authors: Wu Taoyin
Published: August 2023

The degradation model is essential for decision making in transportation asset management, but it has been a missing piece in pathway management. The current budget level is not sustainable without more proactive planning. In this report, a stochastic degradation model based on homogeneous Markov Chain considering pathways attributes is developed to simulate the degradation process of parks pathways. The model estimates the probability of reaching different condition states for individual segments, which is used to assist the budget analysis with or without implementing repair strategies. The results not only show the overall condition trend but also indicating considering repair activities is more sustainable. The Pareto Frontier curves indicate the optimal achievable performance with different levels of annual investment. They provide a benchmark for evaluating the efficiency of the current maintenance strategies and also the evidence for making a tradeoff between the investment level and the network performance. 
Evaluation of the Storm Water Volume Control Target in Ontario
Authors: Singh Gautam
Published: August 2023

This study evaluates the “proposed stormwater volume control target in Ontario,” which is set at the 90 percentile of rainfall event volume, in terms of a) the percentage of total rainfall volume- controlled; b) the effectiveness of using low-impact-development (LID) measures for a development site to meet the proposed target. Based on the analyses of daily and hourly rainfall data from 122 hydrological stations in Ontario, the total rainfall volumes corresponding to daily and hourly 90th percentile rainfall depth were computed to be approximately 68% and 79%, respectively. Using a hydrologic model of a hypothetical catchment of 100m by 100m, it was determined that it would be difficult to retain 90% of the total rainfall volume on-site by applying a LID designed to retain 90 percentile rainfall event volume. 
Pedestrian Dynamics in Smart Cities: Ubiquitous Sensing, Interactions, and Models
Authors: Kalatian Arash
Published: August 2023

The dissertation explores the influence of emerging technologies on the dynamics of urban areas from a pedestrian-oriented perspective. To evaluate this influence, novel data sources and modern data-driven approaches replace traditional data collection methods and modelling techniques. Part of the dissertation establishes new tools and techniques to predict and explain pedestrian behaviour that concerns the future dynamics in urban areas. Specifically, this dissertation considers: (i) what are the novel data sources that can capture detailed information on pedestrian behaviour and how can they be used efficiently? (ii) how to extract valuable information from these new high- dimensional data sources? (iii) how to utilize the data and tools to predict pedestrian behaviour in the future urban environment? and (iv) how to interpret and explain pedestrian behaviour in the context of smart cities?

This thesis is based on four articles introduced in Chapters 3 to 6. Chapter 3 introduces a semi-supervised residual network for transportation mode detection using passively collected labelled and unlabelled Wi-Fi signal data. Chapter 4 provides a survival analysis to model the wait time behaviour of a crossing pedestrian and analyze the effect of smartphone distraction on pedestrian behaviour. Virtual reality is used in this chapter as a means of data collection in a controlled environment. Chapter 5 highlights pedestrian crossing behaviour in the presence of automated vehicles. A large virtual reality data collection campaign is conducted to understand pedestrian behaviour in futuristic scenarios. Data-driven survival analysis is developed to analyze pedestrian wait time before mid-block unsignalized crossings. By using a post-hoc model interpretation, the contributing factors to pedestrian wait time are assessed. In Chapter 6, a neural network architecture is developed to incorporate sequential time-series data and contextual information to predict pedestrian trajectory. The proposed framework is applied to the virtual reality dataset.

Methodological and data collection frameworks explored in this dissertation provide solutions for detecting, modelling and predicting pedestrian behaviour in a futuristic context. This dissertation con- tributes to the field of transportation by proposing alternative data collection methods, developing novel data-driven methodologies and analyzing pedestrian behaviour in the context of automated vehicles.
Development of a Quick Design Method for Composite Concrete Slab-Over Steel Box Girder Bridges for Project Bidding
Authors: Duhig Megan
Published: August 2023

In bridge analysis, the beam analogy method is used to analyze girders for the longitudinal load effects of live loads. Designers calculate the maximum bending moment (MT), and the shear force (VT), of a bridge girder under truck loading and use the truck load fraction (FT) to generate the design longitudinal live load effects. This Report presents structural analysis and design of different composite concrete slab-over multi-spine steel box girder configurations subjected to CL-W truck loading. Bridge geometries include single-, two-, three-, and four-span girder arrangements. Bridge widths ranged from 7 m (1 lane) to 24 m (6 lanes), with spans ranging from 20 m to 80 m. Equations developed by others were used to represent values of the maximum shear, deflection and bending moments experienced by the girder due to truck loading conditions. This study also included updating and verification of a software developed by a Ph.D. student, used to perform composite steel box girder design. The software optimizes the box girder size based on the CHBDC design procedure. Using the developed software, a parametric study was conducted to determine the required moment of inertia of the bare steel section, composite moment of inertia and steel web area to satisfy all design requirements. Empirical equations for these three properties were developed to assist bridge designers in estimating steel box girder section sizes for contract bidding. 
The Structural Performance of Composite Slabs with Profiled Steel Sheet Incorporating Different Concretes
Authors: Mahfuz Marjuk
Published: August 2023

Cold formed profiled steel sheets are widely used for composite floor decking, where they remain permanently in place as an integral part of the floor system. Some benefits of composite deck flooring are economy, speed of construction, and reduced weight. This research consisted of experimental investigations on composite slabs under static and post-fatigue monotonic loading, as well as loading to failure after being subjected to fire at specified temperature and fire duration. The material and geometric variables are the five types of high performance concrete mixes, two types of profile sheet and the presence or absence of longitudinal reinforcement. The structural performance of the composite slabs are described based on load-displacement response, stiffness, energy absorption capacity, ductility, steel deck-concrete interface as well as post-fatigue and post-fire residual strength. The recommendations of this research will be useful for determining the best application for each concrete mix in composite slabs. 
Robustness-Based Optimal Progressive Collapse Design of Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Praxedes Silva Neto Conrado
Published: August 2023

Progressive collapse of structures is a cascading failure phenomenon with a failure consequence that is disproportionate to the direct damage of an initiating event. The Ronan Point Building collapse in 1968 triggered the start of research on disproportionate progressive collapse in building structural engineering. Intense research was followed after the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building bombing in 1995 and the disastrous collapse of the World Trade Centre after aircraft strikes. 

Progressive collapse has essentially two distinct features: system- rather than component-level responses, and low probability and high consequences. The majority of existing design codes and standards consider progressive collapse implicitly, by improving the performance of a structure through the specification of minimum levels of strength, continuity, and ductility. On the other hand, existing explicit design procedures largely consist of a component-based design approach. 

This study proposes an innovative system-based and risk-informed decision making framework for progressive collapse design of reinforced concrete frames. Considering the full spectrum of risk due to initiating events, a novel risk-based robustness index is proposed as a system-level performance criterion for design. From a conventionally designed structure, an optimization pro- cess identifies optimal allocation of resources that results in a robust system. An efficient design frontier is defined based on optimal designs when varying the additional expenses provided for the improvement of robustness of a structure. The efficient frontier is then used to verify the cost effectiveness of the design alternatives in conjunction with the cumulative prospect theory. 

In order to assist in the decision-making process of progressive collapse design provisions, a risk-cost trade-off framework is proposed. The design framework establishes whether additional resources must be used to enhance the robustness of a structure, and when required, it further identifies the optimal expenses that should be used to prevent potential progressive collapse. 
Development of Temanggung Robusta Coffee: Findings and Evidence from Central Java, Indonesia
Authors: Purwanto Danang , Widiyanto Widiyanto , Ihsaniyati Hanifah , Wardani Raden Roro Ilma Kusuma , Santosa Fajar Julian
Published: August 2023

Temanggung robusta coffee is a potential plantation commodity in Central Java that has existed since the colonial era. Its development has gone through various policies, both from the top down and bottom up. This research was based on empirical facts and phenomena on the development of Temanggung robusta coffee. The researchers conducted participatory observations, discussions, and in-depth interviews with 15 informants. Data analysis was done through a socio-historical and descriptive approach to accurately understand the evidence, history, and correlations between phenomena. This study’s results prove that the transformation stage of Temanggung robusta coffee began in the era of forced cultivation of “Koffie Stelsel” through patron-client relationships. This development continues to experience socio-cultural shifts with a variety of different policies. Currently, three sectors are the main players in Temanggung robusta coffee (government, large private plantations, and the community). The factors causing the success of Temanggung coffee not to be achieved are 1) the large area of land but low productivity; 2) the process of randomly picking coffee; 3) policies that are not yet optimal; 4) minimal market share; 5) the capacity of extension agents in the coffee commodity is still low; 6) lack of cooperation between stakeholders.
A Hybrid Spatial Adaptive Modulation and Frequency Stochastic Approach for MU-MIMO-OFDM Systems in the Context of Underlay Cognitive Radios
Authors: Labdaoui Rym , Ghanem Khalida , Ettoumi Fatiha Youcef
Published: August 2023

In this paper, low complexity rate and power optimization schemes operating in the spatial and frequency domains are proposed in a cognitive radio (CR) setting involving multi-user multiple-input-multiple-output-orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (MU-MIMO-OFDM). Under the assumption of a perfect secondary channel state information (CSI) at the receiver, the presented architectures encompass two main stages. In the first one, spatial power waterfilling-like method is performed per each MIMO subchannel pertaining to each subcarrier of each secondary user (SU). The resulting allocated power per each eigen-channel is considered as the power budget in the second stage. In this latter, stochastic algorithm-based approach wherein the transmit parameters per each subcarrier of each SU are adapted such that to maximize the achievable sum-rate capacity of the SUs. Three different schemes are introduced in this work. First, the derivation of the continuous rate MU-MIMO-OFDM-CR version, referred to as C-MU-MIMO-OFDM-CR is presented. Obviously, this proposition is theoretical and is taken as a benchmark for the two remaining counterparts. The second proposition we called discrete-rate MU-MIMO-OFDM-CR, and briefly designated as D-MU-MIMO-OFDM-CR which is to round the provided allocated rate. Finally, the third modified solution, denoted as P-D-MU-MIMO-OFDM-CR proceeds in a similar way as the D-MU-MIMO-OFDM-CR alternative, but superimposes the non/over-used amount of power to the power budget in next iteration. The simulation results show that, compared to the discrete rate D-MU-MIMO-OFDM-CR solution, the P-D-MU-MIMO-OFDM-CR approach exhibits an approximate power gain of 1 dB when the SNR level is low, and of 5 dB at high SNR range.
Improved Intermediate Visual Function with New Monofocal Intraocular Lens in Combined Cataract and Vitrectomy Surgery for Retinal Disease
Authors: Park Min Ji , Lee Ho Seok , Chang In Boem , Hong In Hwan
Published: August 2023

Purpose: To evaluate the usefulness of a newly generated monofocal intraocular lens (IOL) in patients with various retinal diseases who underwent combined cataract and pars plana vitrectomy surgery.Methods: This prospective observational study included 33 patients with various retinal diseases. Monocular best-corrected distance visual acuity (BCDVA), uncorrected distance visual acuity (UCDVA), uncorrected intermediate visual acuity (UCIVA), uncorrected near visual acuity (UCNVA), and contrast sensitivity were measured and compared with 40 age-matched patients in the standard monofocal IOL.Results: The Eyhance IOL group demonstrated significantly better UCIVA at 6 months follow-up compared to the standard monofocal IOL group. No significant differences were observed between the two groups in contrast sensitivity, BCDVA, UCDVA, or UCNVA. The regression analysis showed a significant association between preoperative corrected distance visual acuity and improved UCIVA in the Eyhance IOL group.Conclusions: The Eyhance ICB00 IOL proved to be a valuable option for patients with retinal diseases undergoing combined cataract surgery and vitrectomy. It effectively improved intermediate vision without compromising contrast sensitivity or distance visual acuity.
SOSIALISASI DAN EDUKASI TENTANG KOSMETIK YANG AMAN PADA MASYARAKAT PESISIR DI DESA LEPPE, KECAMATAN SOROPIA, KABUPATEN KONAWE
Authors: Arba Muhammad , Wa Ode Sitti Zubaydah  , Rifa'atul Mahmudah  , Irvan Anwar  , Alvin Mahendra Salim  , Cici Pulcerima  , Fitri Syahriani Djalil  , Friesca Dwi Cahyani  , Nur Islami Irwan  , Riski  , Rita  , Sri Astuti Handayani
Published: August 2023

Kosmetika merupakan salah satu produk farmasi yang digunakan setiap hari oleh wanita dan pria mulai dari bayi sampai orang dewasa. Tujuan dari kegiatan ini adalah untuk memberikan sosialisasi kepada masyarakat desa pesisir mengenai pemilihan kosmetika yang aman. Metode yang digunakan adalah dengan pembagian leaflet dan pemberian materi melalui presentase dan dilanjutkan dengan sesi tanya jawab. Luaran kegiatan berupa warga desa Leppe mengetahui cara pemilihan kosmetik yang aman sesuai yang disyaratkan oleh BPOM. Kesimpulan masyarakat desa leppe masih minim tentang pemilihan kosmetik yang aman, sehingga dengan adanya sosialisasi ini diharapkan dapat menambah pengetahuan masyarakat dalam mengetahui dan memilih kosmetik yang aman.
SOSIALISASI DAN EDUKASI TENTANG BAHAYA NARKOBA PADA MASYARAKAT PESISIR DI SMPN SATU ATAP TAPULAGA KECAMATAN SOROPIA
Authors: Nuralifah Nuralifah , Malaka Muhammad Hajrul , Arfan  , Parawansah  , Murniaty  , Mursyidah Apriatin  , Helma Yanda Serah  , Puteri Febriyanthi Rachman  , Sri Oktaviani  , Sofianti Tarta  , Sitti Fazrianti Saputri  , Wa Ode Nurmayanti
Published: August 2023

Narkoba adalah singkatan dari narkotika, psikotropika dan bahan adiktif lainnya. Istilah lainnya  adalah  NAPZA  (narkotika,  psikotropika  dan  zat  adiktif). Salah satu kelompok masyarakat yang rawan terpapar penyalahgunaan Narkoba yaitu pada rentang usia 15-35 tahun atau generasi milenial. Kelompok usia remaja justru memiliki keinginan yang besar untuk mencoba-coba, mengikuti trend dan gaya hidup, serta memilih hidup bersenang senang.  Tujuan dari pengabdian ini yaitu dilakukannya kegiatan sosialisasi mengenai bahaya penyalahgunaan narkoba di Sekolah Menengah Pertama (SMP) Negeri Satu Atap Tapulaga  untuk meningkatkan pemahaman tentang dampak yang ditimbulkan dari penggunaan narkoba, baik secara fisik, psikis maupun sosial ekonomi. Metode yang diberikan berupa informasi melalui penyuluhan, leaflet dan media sosial. Hasil dari kegiatan pengabdian yang telah dilakukan yaitu bertambahnya pengetahuan Siswa/Siswi SMPN Satu Atap Desa Tapulaga tentang bahaya penggunaan narkoba dan mendapatkan informasi yang jelas mengenai narkoba.
EDUKASI APOTEKER CILIK DI SD SATU ATAP KAPULAGA DESA KAPULAGA KECAMATAN SOROPIA, KABUPATEN KONAWE
Authors: Irvan  , Suryani  , Nurramadhani A. Sida  , Andi Muammar Zayed  , Andi Srie Muniati T  , Arifah Indar Cahyani  , Diana Hijrah  , Muhammad Syamsir  , Siti Sarmila Dewi  , Wa Ode Asriani  , Wa Ode Sinta Hasrawati  , Malina Rachma
Published: August 2023

Masyarakat Indonesia masa kini semakin sadar akan pentingnya kesehatan. Tubuh yang sehat maka dapat mendukung masyarakat Indonesia untuk mencapai taraf hidup yang lebih baik. Salah satu profesi yang bisa berperan dalam mewujudkan upaya kesehatan adalah profesi Apoteker. Dalam pelaksanaan upaya kesehatan, Apoteker memegang peranan penting demi tercapainya derajat kesehatan masyarakat yang setinggi-tingginya. Untuk menyempurnakan pembinaan Pendidikan kesehatan dan pelayanan perlu juga adanya apoteker cilik yang dapat menciptakan suasana sehat di lingkungan sekolah maupun di lingkungan
rumah. Tujuan dari kegiatan pengabdian ini adalah untuk memberikan sosialisasi kepada anak-anak usia dini di SD Satu Atap Kapulaga, Desa Kapulaga, Kecamatan Soropia, Kabupaten Konawe agar mengetahui profesi Apoteker serta tugasnyaApoteker memegang peranan penting demi tercapainya derajat kesehatan masyarakat yang setinggi-tingginya. Pembinaan program pendidikan kesehatan dan pelayanan kesehatan di usia sekolah terutama di tingkat sekolah dasar sudah mulai berkembang. Untuk menyempurnakan pendidikan kesehatan dan pelayanan tersebut perlu juga adanya pelatihan apoteker cilik demi membina generasi sejak dini. Metode yang digunakan pada kegiatan ini adalah presentasi materi, games, pembagian snack, pemberian hadiah, serta pemasangan selempang Apoteker Cilik. Kegiatan pengabdian ini memberikan pemahaman materi mengenai profesi Apoteker serta tugasnya yang dibuktikan dengan peningkatan pengetahuan setelah sosialisasi dan pemahaman anak-anak pesisir Desa Kapulaga mengenai profesi Apoteker.
SOSIALISASI PEMAHAMAN TENTANG VCO (VIRGIN COCONUT OIL) DESA LEPPE, KECAMATAN SOROPIA, KABUPATEN KONAWE
Authors: Fristiohady Adryan , Yusuf Muhammad Ilyas , Pascayantri Asniar , Sahidin  , Muhamad Handoyo Sahumena  , Wahyuni  , Laode Muhamad Mbuyang Nadia  , Grasiana Eka E.Y.G  , Wa Ode Norma  , Yamin Yamin , Baka Wa Kuasa , Rianse Ilma Mustaqima
Published: August 2023

Buah kelapa di wilayah pesisir Desa Leppe Kecamatan Soropia kabupaten Konawe, Provinsi Sulawesi Tenggara hanya dijual secara gelondongan. Tujuan pelatihan untuk memotivasi masyarakat agar berdaya dengan memanfaatkan potensi alamnya menjadi  lebih ekonomis dan meningkatkan pemahaman tentang VCO Khalayak sasarannya adalah 20 orang masyarakat Desa Leppe. Kegiatan ini melibatkan mitra, baik dari pihak masyarakat yang bergiat di bidang pembuatan produk VCO, ibu-ibu penggerak Pemberdayaan Kesejahteraan Keluarga (PKK), Kegiatan pengabdian dilakukan melalui metode penyuluhan dan telah berlangsung dengan baik, lancar, serta mendapat respon yang positif dari para peserta. Transfer pengetahuan, baru ini telah memotivasi masyarakat untuk berwirausaha dengan membuat VCO murni bagi kesehatan tubuh seperti antibakteri, antivirus, dan anti jamur. Proses pembuatan VCO adalah dengan cara fermentasi tidak mengalami proses pemanasan dan tidak ada penambahan zat zat kimia. Diharapkan pelatihan ini ditindak lanjuti dengan pelatihan pembuatan produk VCO agar bisa dikemas dan bisa di perjual belikan.
PEMBUATAN DAN PENANAMAN TANAMAN OBAT KELUARGA DI DESA LEPPE KECAMATAN SOROPIA
Authors: Sabarudin  , La Ode Nggawu  , Sitti Raodah Nurul Jannah  , Astrid Indalifiany  , Nurull Hikmah  , Vica Aspadiah  , Loly Subhiaty Idrus  , Abrar  , Diana Pratiwi  , Faeni  , Feny Rizkiana Poko  , Murniati  , Nur Aida  , Nur Annisa  , Nur Intan Darwis
Published: August 2023

Tanaman obat dapat meningkatkan kekebalan tubuh karena dapat mencegah penyakit melalui kandungan metabolit sekunder yang dikandungnya. Gingiro pada jahe dan santoriso pada temulawak merupakan salah satu contoh metabolit sekunder yang mampu meningkatkan sistem kekebalan tubuh. Sosialisasi penggunaan tanaman obat keluarga ini bertujuan untuk memberikan informasi kepada masyarakat Desa Leppe Kecamatan Soropia dalam memanfaatkan tanaman obat keluarga. Kegiatan ini dilaksanakan melalui beberapa tahapan yaitu tahap persiapan dan tahap pelaksanaan. Tahap persiapan dilakukan dengan mempersiapkan bibit dari tanaman obat keluarga (TOGA) yang ada di sekitar rumah warga kemudian disiapkan untuk ditanam kembali pada lahan yang telah disediakan. Tahapan pelaksanaan dilakukan dengan pembuatan dan penanaman TOGA serta memberikan informasi kepada masyarakat terkait manfaat dan khasiat tanaman obat keluarga. Kegiatan pengabdian kepada masyarakat ini diharapkan mampu membantu masyarakat dalam memanfaatkan tanaman TOGA untuk meningkatkan imunitas tubuh.
BAI Saga: Pyramid Scheme, Ponzi Scheme, Ponzi-like Scheme or Political Vendetta and Conspiracy?
Authors: Teeluckdharry Guru Dev
Published: August 2023

This paper sheds light on the collapse of the British American Investment conglomerate in Mauritius also known as the BAI Group. According to the Government of Mauritius, the BAI Group was operating a vast Ponzi Scheme via its banking subsidiary known as the Bramer Banking Corporation Ltd (BBCL). Furthermore, according to the report of nTan Corporate Advisory Pte Ltd which is a consultant of the Bank of Mauritius, the BAI Group’s subsidiaries such as the British American Insurance (BAI Co. (Mtius) Ltd) and Bramer Property Fund (BPF) were operating ‘Ponzi-like Schemes’. Which is which? This paper analyses the other end of the spectrum from a critical perspective based exclusively upon the Academic Literature and takes up the gauntlet with intrepidity to “Give The Devil His Due”.
Transcending Trauma: Treatments’ Caveats, Construal, and Cultural Context
Authors: Vega Luis A. , Agabao Myrren , Franco Angelica , Estrada-Rodriguez Zeltzin , Gomez Fernando , Selene Natasha , Lee Yeunjoo , Gonzales Addie , Wu Kayla , Niestas Andrea S.
Published: August 2023

We examined evidence for the view that trauma transcendence should be operationally defined as a process rather than an end goal and considered caveats in individual differences of construal and contextual-cultural influences. The focus was on the role of therapy treatments used in trauma transcendence and the extent to which evidence-based information, theory, and generalizability are—can/ should be—involved. Our methodological analysis and theoretical discussion of extant research evidence focused on (a) models of trauma transcendence, (b) the multivariate, scientific nature of evidence-based therapy treatments/outcomes, (c) the need to have tailor-made trauma treatments that allow for individualized patient variability, (d) therapists’ skill-limitations/strengths, and (e) the need for methodical, systematic approaches to trauma transcendence. Our conclusions show that evidence-based approaches are needed, but limits remain in generalizability of findings. We also recognize a need for multipronged approaches to trauma transcendence, from trauma-informed approaches, to reducing the shortage of therapists, increasing methodological-clinical sophistication in the public sphere, and addressing the multivariate nature of trauma. Finally, we suggest that navigating trauma transcendence should be a process that goes beyond the homeostatic state.