bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MUSCLE STRENGTH EVALUATION AFTER ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION USING ISOKINETIC DYNAMOMETRY
Authors:   Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Public Health, Health Care and Sports, South-West University ", Ganeva Maria ,   Neofit Rilski",   , Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria., Tsvetkova-Gaberska Miglena ,   Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Public Health, Health Care and Sports, South-West University "Neofit Rilski", Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria., Kanelov Iliya ,   Department of Theory and methodology of physical education, Faculty of Pedagogy, South-West University "Neofit Rilski", Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria., Pencheva Nevena ,   Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Public Health, Health Care and Sports, South-West University "Neofit Rilski", Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria.
Published: November 2023

Purpose: The aim of this report is to measure and analyse the isometric and isokinetic (concentric) peak torque (PT) of knee extensors and flexors of the involved and uninvolved limb of twin professional football players over one year post anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). To calculate the unilateral and bilateral asymmetry indexes and compare the athlete's PT values with sport-specific and position-specific data. Case description: Strength measurements of the knee extensors and flexors were conducted on two ACLR football players (twins) on the involved and uninvolved limbs in isometric and concentric modes of muscle contractions, and unilateral/bilateral asymmetry indexes were calculated. Results: The peak torque isometric data indicated that the strength characteristics of the involved leg extensors in both patients were significantly lower compared to the uninvolved limb and were indicators of higher secondary injury risk. The first athlete's concentric peak torque values showed relatively good return-to-sport results, while the second football player returned to sport having not met the recovery criteria. Both athletes require additional specific muscle strength exercises on the extension and flexion muscle groups to reach the ACL reconstruction recovery targets. Conclusions: In this case report, the possibilities of isokinetic dynamometric testing in an isometric and concentric mode of football players to more accurately assess the extent of the muscle strength deficiency and asymmetry are demonstrated. This more precise information allows to the creation of correct training and therapeutic program to recover the knee muscle groups' strength and unilateral/bilateral strength balance to avoid reinjury.
Analisis Yuridis Penegakan Hukum Tindak Pidana Korupsi Dalam Penjatuhan Vonis Hakim (Studi Putusan Nomor : 01/Pid.Sus.TPK/2017/PN.Mdn)
Authors: Utami Rizky Dwi , Saputra M. Adi
Published: November 2023

Pertimbangan Hakim merupakan salah satu poin terpenting dalam mewujudkan nilai dari suatu putusan hakim yang mengandung keadilan (ex aequo et bono) dan mengandung kepastian hukum, tentu juga bermanfaat bagi para pihak yang bersangkutan. Namun terkadang putusan hakim dalam putusan korupsi dirasa belum menyentuh tujuan hukum. Oleh sebab itu, penulis ingin mengetahui mengenai penegakan hukum dalam pertimbangan hakim dalam menjatuhkan sebuah putusan (Studi  Putusan  Nomor: 01/Pid.Sus.TPK/2017/PN.Mdn).  Penulisan  penelitian  ini  menggunakan  metode penelitian yuridis normatif yaitu suatu metode yang digunakan untuk mengkaji/menganalisis data yang berupa bahan-bahan hukum terutama bahan hukum primer dan bahan hukum sekunder yang berkaitan dengan materi yang dibahas. Berdasarkan hasil analisis, dapat disimpulkan bahwa Dasar pertimbangan hakim dalam menjatuhkan sebuah putusan adalah berdasarkan pertimbangan secara yuridis dan pertimbangan secara non yuridis. Dimana hal ini Pengadilan Negeri dalam  menentukan judex  facti,  dengan  yang  berwenang  memeriksafakta  dan  bukti  dari  suatu  perkara tersebut. Sedangkan  faktor?faktor  penegakan   hukum  tindak  pidana  korupsi  dalam  penjatuhan vonis hakim (Studi Putusan Nomor : 01/Pid.Sus.TPK/2017/PN.Mdn)  dapat ditentukan dari 5 faktor yaitu, Faktor Hukum, Faktor Penegak Hukum, Faktor Sarana dan Prasarana, Faktor Masyarakat dan Faktor Kebudayaan. Dimana dari vonis hakim tersebut dapat menganalisis penegakan hukum.
Refeeding Days Strategies Applied in Elite Soccer Player Week Dietary Intake: A Short Communication
Authors: Fernandes Haniel
Published: November 2023

Even knowing that elite soccer players body fat mass does not undergo major changes and remains stable and similar across all age groups they ever want to reduce their body fat percentage because, according to their own reports, by doing this they felt light on the pitch. However, during the off-season soccer periods, the elite soccer players tends reduced you performance after training and matches cessation [1], something that could put into question the need for a diet rich in carbohydrates on this moment due increasing body fat percentage fear. However, there is a strategy for prescribing hypocaloric diets commonly used by resistance athletes during reduce body fat percentage phases, which is called refeeding days. Basically, the strategy consists of a calorie-restricted diet during the week and two days during weekends with 100% energy requirements, something that correlates performance maintenance at body fat percentage reduction [2]. And thinking about, it is something that could correlate with elite soccer players reducing caloric intake and training level during soccer off-seasons with diet strategies that can help them maintained sports performance and low body fat percentage during this phase. A study can prove scientifically that hypocaloric diets on low carbohydrate consumption during short periods were able to decrease body fat in elite soccer players without to harm their performance [3]. Thus, it becomes necessary to understand some methodology that leads the athlete to a low-carbohydrate diet, does not make him lose performance over time and maintains his body composition as desired by him. Thus, knowing that the refeeding days strategies can be used implementing one or two days at high carbohydrate and energy intake (generally at or slightly above body weight maintenance levels), thereby providing a break on the another five consecutive days of low carbohydrate and hypocaloric diet [4], this diet model would add as one more strategy to be recommended for soccer players who try to lower the body fat percentage without worse the performance, becomes this proposal for these athletes interesting. Furthermore, dietary prescriptions for athletes who want to reduce body fat percentage remain within the range of less than 45 kcal/kg-1 lean body mass/day-1, carbohydrates between 3 and 5 g/kg-1 body weight/day-1, proteins between 1 and 3 g/kg-1 body weight/day-1 and the dietary fat prescription percentage comprising 20 to 30% of the total energy value of the diet [5-7]. And for athletes who need to optimize performance, the carbohydrate recommendation is within the range of 5 to 10 g/kg-1 body weight/day-1 and in this case the protein can reach the highest range of the recommendation and go up to 4 g/kg-1 body weight/day-1 [8,9]. This way, a strategy refeeding days model was proposed by the author in Table 1, as a strategy that can be used to decrease the body fat percentage of the elite soccer player with the possibility of not harming his performance.
Alternative reporting options for sexual assault: perspectives of victim-survivors
Authors: Heydon Georgina , Henry Nicola , Loney-Howes Rachel , Hindes Sophie
Published: November 2023

Anonymous reporting tools for sexual assault contribute to gathering intelligence, reducing crime, increasing reporting and supporting survivors. This article examines victim-survivors’ knowledge of and experiences using alternative reporting options, drawing on data collected from a broader study of alternative reporting options for sexual assault. Focus groups with victim-survivors and interviews with support service staff reveal that survivors and support staff are unclear about how authorities use data from alternative reporting tools but can identify preferred designs for a form. Victim-survivors in particular strongly support having an alternative reporting option available.
Long head of biceps tendon transposition for massive and irreparable rotator cuff tears: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wan Ren-Wen , Luo Zhi-Wen , Yang Yi-Meng , Zhang Han-Li , Chen Jia-Ni , Chen Shi-Yi , Shang Xi-Liang
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) with long head of biceps tendon (LHBT) transposition was developed to massive and irreparable rotator cuff tears (MIRCTs); however, the outcomes of this technique remain unclear.

AIM

To perform a systematic review of biomechanical outcomes and a meta-analysis of clinical outcomes after LHBT transposition for MIRCTs.

METHODS

We performed a systematic electronic database search on PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library. Studies of SCR with LHBT transposition were included according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Biomechanical studies were assessed for main results and conclusions. Included clinical studies were evaluated for quality of methodology. Data including study characteristics, cohort demographics, and outcomes were extracted. A meta-analysis was conducted of the clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

According to our inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of six biomechanical studies were identified and reported an overall improvement in subacromial contact pressures and prevention of superior humeral migration without limiting range of motion (ROM) after LHBT transposition for MIRCTs. A total of five clinical studies were included in the meta-analysis of LHBT transposition outcomes, consisting of 253 patients. The results indicated that compared to other surgical methods for MIRCTs, LHBT transposition had advantages of more significant improvement in ROM (forward flexion mean difference [MD] = 6.54, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.07-10.01; external rotation [MD = 5.15, 95%CI: 1.59-8.17]; the acromiohumeral distance [AHD] [MD = 0.90, 95%CI: 0.21-1.59]) and reducing retear rate (odds ratio = 0.27, 95%CI: 0.15-0.48). No significant difference in American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, visual analogue scale score, and University of California at Los Angles score was demonstrated between these two groups for MIRCTs.

CONCLUSION

In general, SCR with LHBT transposition was a reliable and economical technique for treating MIRCTs, both in terms of biomechanical and clinical outcomes, with comparable clinical outcomes, improved ROM, AHD, and reduced the retear rates compared to conventional SCR and other established techniques. More high-quality randomized controlled studies on the long-term outcomes of SCR with LHBT transposition are required to further assess.
Quando il boccone non va giù: la disfagia in Pediatria attraverso i casi
Authors: Capata Giulia , Lega Sara , Bramuzzo Matteo , Di Leo Grazia
Published: November 2023

Dysphagia is a disorder that affects one or more phases of the swallowing process. In paediatric age, it is often difficult to discriminate the underlying cause of this disorder. In this sense, a first distinction between oropharyngeal and oesophageal dysphagia is helpful. This article reviews the main causes of dysphagia through the description of clinical cases and provides indications for diagnostic and therapeutic management.
Dermo mail
Authors: Berti Irene
Published: November 2023

Granuloma anulare - Pitiriasi versicolor
From Wasteland to Wild Area: How Local Activism Opened a New Frontier in Environmental and Governmental Reform
Authors: Gardiner Zachary
Published: November 2023

In the 1950s, innovation in the nuclear industry led to the development of nuclear-powered jet engines in Northern Central Pennsylvania. However, Curtiss-Wright, the company leading this research disregarded the efforts of local wildlife clubs in preserving the environment. Instead, they dangerously disposed of the hazardous material in the woods. Following their departure, a number of nuclear-based companies used the complex to continue innovative research. But the pollution increased, and the responsibility of cleaning the woods was continuously passed to the next company, threatening the conservation efforts of the wildlife clubs. This essay explores the impact and extent of pollution in the Quehanna Wild Area, as well as the response and success of local wildlife clubs, especially the Mosquito Creek Sportsmen, in their activist efforts to preserve the woods.
متطلبات الممارسة المهنية عن بعد في ضوء جائحة كورونا: دراسة مطبقة على الأخصائيين الاجتماعيين العاملين بالمجال المدرسي بسلطنة عمان
Authors: بنت محمد الكيومية كريمة , محمد كامل الشربيني محمد
Published: November 2023

هدفت هذه الورقة الى تحديد متطلبات الممارسة المهنية عن بعد في ظل جائحة كورونا، وكذلك معرفة الأساليب العلاجية المتنوعة التي يمكن أن يمارسها الأخصائيون الاجتماعيون مع عملائهم، وكذلك التعرف على التحديات والصعوبات التي تواجه الممارسة المهنية عن بعد. وتنتمي هذه الدراسة إلى نمط الدراسات الوصفية، وقد استخدم الباحثان منهج البحث الاجتماعي باستخدام العينة. واشتملت أدوات الدراسة على استبيان إلكتروني حول ما هي تلك المتطلبات الواجب توافرها وكذلك التحديات عند الانتقال للعمل من المنزل للعاملين بالحقل الاجتماعي، وتكوّنت عينة البحث من عينة من الاخصائيين الاجتماعيين العاملين بالمجال المدرسي بسلطنة عمان وعددهم (122) مفردة، وقد تم تحليل البيانات باستخدام البرنامج (SPSS, version 24).  وقد توصلت نتائج الدراسة إلى العديد من متطلبات الممارسة المهنية بعضها متطلبات معرفية، ومهارية فضلا عن المهارات الفنية الإدارية. كما أشارت الدراسة إلى وجود الصعوبات والتحديات التي تواجه الأخصائيين للعمل عن بعد في المجال المدرسي في ظل جائحة كورونا منها تحديات راجعة للمدرسة وأخرى للأخصائيين الاجتماعيين. وأخيرا تم التوصل إلى مجموعة من المقترحات التي يمكن أن تساهم في تفعيل دور مهنة الخدمة الاجتماعية في مواجهة فيروس كورونا ومنها تخصيص قاعدة بيانات للأخصائي الاجتماعي وصفحة ويب تتوفر فيها غرف صوتيه للتواصل مع الحالات الفردية.

كلمات مفتاحية: الممارسة المهنية؛ الممارسة عن بعد؛ الخدمة الاجتماعية المدرسية؛ الازمات الصحية؛ جائحة كورونا.
Safeguarding Oman’s Cultural Heritage: Legislative Perspective
Authors: Ali K. Al-Belushi Mohammed , Ahmed Al-Hooti Nawal
Published: November 2023

Oman’s cultural heritage is protected by a number of laws, the most important of which is the Cultural Heritage Law (CHL), which was issued in 2019 as a replacement for the National Heritage Protection Law (NHPL) that was in force since 1980. This paper reviews the protection and management of various types of cultural heritage under both these laws and other relevant national legislative tools. It discusses the aptness and adequacy of these laws to manage this heritage in light of the unprecedented development that the country has been witnessing since 1970. The study concludes that there are a number of aspects that need to be considered for the refinement and reformation of extant laws. For example, the legal and practical challenges that can arise from having a single law must be considered to manage and protect all types of cultural heritage. Also, the practicability of having two different organizations to manage both tangible and intangible heritage must be assessed. Finally, the study proposes to include the protection of cultural heritage in laws that have a direct and indirect relationship. Finally, it suggests the reconsideration of the separation of the bodies concerned with heritage from those concerned with culture.

 

Keywords: Sultanate of Oman; cultural heritage; tangible heritage; intangible heritage; law.
Sustainability in the scope of civil construction: recycling of solid waste in concrete manufacturing
Authors: Garcia Ana Clara Silva , Muller da Silva Elzelis , Santos Yvelyne Bianca Iunes , Quaresma Danielly da Silva , Ribeiro Hebe Morganne Campos , Coutinho Eliane de Castro
Published: November 2023

Concrete production has become a frequent target of studies focusing on sustainability in its production chain, given the successive environmental degradation it causes. That said, the present work aims to investigate sustainability in the context of civil construction through the recycling of solid waste in the manufacture of concrete. The methodology used in the present work encompasses a narrative literature review of scientific articles published in journals from 2019 to 2023 relating to the survey of the types of recyclable waste that contribute to the manufacture of concrete. Glass, pneumatic and construction and demolition waste was explained, which had potential in partially replacing some components of the concrete mix, as well as adding them together with minerals to optimize mechanical results. Therefore, the manufacture of concrete from waste recycling boosts sustainability in the context of civil construction, the saving of natural resources and the sustainable disposal of waste, contributing to the field of study with new technologies related to sustainable development.
La deducibilidad de la licencia de pesca como activo intangible de duración limitada
Authors: Mena Dávila John Hitler , Cajan Burga Evert Williams , Huamán de los Santos Juan Miguel
Published: November 2023

En la actualidad, se presenta un conflicto interpretativo entre la Administración Tributaria (AT) y el Tribunal Fiscal (TF) en torno a la deducibilidad de la licencia de pesca en el Impuesto a la Renta. Según la AT y el TF, la licencia se clasifica como un activo intangible de duración ilimitada, lo que la excluye de ser deducible según el artículo 44° del TUO de la Ley del Impuesto a la Renta. En contraste, la Corte Suprema, en diversas Casaciones, sostiene que la licencia de pesca es un activo intangible inseparable de la embarcación pesquera, cuya vigencia está vinculada a la vida útil del activo. Esta interpretación se fundamenta en un análisis sistemático de las normas tributarias, la Ley General de Pesca y su reglamento. El problema de investigación se enfoca en determinar si la AT y el TF deberían interpretar las normas tributarias de manera sistemática junto con las normas sectoriales y la jurisprudencia de la Corte Suprema. La investigación, de enfoque cualitativo, analiza cuatro Casaciones de la Quinta Sala Suprema para abordar la naturaleza limitada de la licencia y su deducibilidad en el Impuesto a la Renta. La población de estudio comprende las Casaciones mencionadas, representando los casos donde se discuten los reparos de la AT y el TF en el procedimiento contencioso tributario.
Is indoor environmental quality in my school classroom safe?
Authors: Warwocki Pawel
Published: November 2023

An output of the Open Development & Education, https://opendeved.net/
The Analysis of Pedestrian Service in Railway Station Area: A Case Tanah Abang Station, Jakarta A Case Tanah Abang Station, Jakarta
Authors: Pratama Andreas , Rifai Andri Irfan , Thole Joko
Published: November 2023

Tanah Abang Station is a means of transportation that is in great demand by traders and buyers by passing through the sidewalk, which is currently used to connect pedestrians to move from one place to another. Due to its strategic location and the middle of the city, many visitors pass by the sidewalk near station. This study analyzes the level of service of sidewalk facilities in the Tanah Abang station environment, where the current facilities are whether analysis method used is Index Performance Analysis (IPA) with a value of Satisfaction and Importance of Pedestrian Facilities in the Tanah Abang station area. From the satisfaction and importance comparison table results, an average satisfaction index of 4.14 was obtained, an average interest index of 3.34, and a gap average of -0.76.
The Perception of Travel Behavior on Public Transport Mode Choice: A Case of Depok-Jakarta Route
Authors: Rahmadhani Ajeng Widyaningrum , Rifai Andri Irfan , Handayani Susanty
Published: November 2023

Traffic congestion is a major unresolved problem and a joint task of the community and the government. A high level of mobility will be directly proportional to traffic congestion, and public transportation is an efficient solution for dealing with this problem. This research aims to determine the public's perception of choosing public transportation along the Depok-Jakarta route. The data collection method will be carried out by distributing questionnaires online through social media. Respondent data processing is presented using a spider chart in Microsoft Excel. The results indicate that most public transportation users are millennials and women. This generation prefers the Commuter Line (KRL) compared to other transportation. Schedule accuracy, level of comfort and security, disability friendliness, adequate facilities, infrastructure, and affordable costs are considerations in choosing public transportation. The KRL is highly interested in using it and has a positive service perception.
The Phenomena of Local Public Transportation Service: A Case Oplet in Pontianak, Indonesia
Authors: Setiawan Agus , Rifai Andri Irfan , Prasetijo Joewono
Published: November 2023

Indonesia has a large population and high mobility in daily activities. In meeting mobility needs, traditional public transport has become a hallmark of every city. However, changes in societal behavior have caused traditional public transport to be replaced by online transportation. The purpose of this study was to determine the level of user satisfaction with traditional public transport. The research was conducted in Pontianak City with traditional public transport (Oplet) passengers as respondents. Data collection for October 2022 through an online survey. The study's Importance Performance Analysis results show that there still needs to be a gap between importance and performance. The mean importance value is 4.09 with a performance of 3.87, so the gap is 0.22. While the parameters to improve Oplet services are passenger capacity and driver communication.
Vertical Alignment Design of Special Operational Road: A Case TPA Bangkonol, Banten
Authors: Sahara Dwiki Ali , Rifai Andri Irfan , Irianto Muhammad Alamsyah
Published: November 2023

Infrastructure building is part of national development to provide services to the community. Road infrastructure development as an infrastructure for streamlined land transport. The problem with the current condition is that the operational road for access to waste disposal at the TPA Bangkonol is still in an unpaved road condition. The research mainly focuses on vertical alignment design. It is expected to get the results of efficient geometric design and meet the safety and comfort aspects. From the results of this study obtained vertical alignment calculation data, there are seven convex verticle curves and eight concave verticle curves on the operational road of TPA Bangkonol Pandeglang Regency. The technical design criteria for the design speed are 30km/hour. A maximum longitudinal grade value is 8% also a vertical Lmin is 18m. Geometric calculation of the TPA operational road based on the Highway Geometric Design Indonesia that can meet the safety and comfort aspects of drivers.
The Perception of Road Users on Flyover Development Impact: A Case of Jalan RE Martadinata Bogor
Authors: Syarif Danisy Ardanil , Rifai Andri Irfan , Handayani Susanty
Published: November 2023

The high number of vehicles and the position of the railway line, which is on the same level as the road, can cause congestion. One of the sources of traffic jam locations in Bogor is on Jalan Re. Martadinata. The purpose of this research is to analyze the perceptions of road users on the Martadinata Bogor Flyover. The data collection method was carried out by distributing online questionnaires using a platform, Gform, containing seven related parameters before and after the construction of the flyover. The results of the respondents' answers were processed using the Microsoft Excel application and presented as a spider chart. In the results of the respondent's assessment, all parameters experienced an increase. Three parameters have the highest gap values, and road users and respondents feel the increase, including traffic density, accessibility, and comfort for road users. In addition, there are three parameters with the lowest Gap values, including road conditions, environmental conditions, and road components
Two Approaches to Aesthetic Experience
Authors: Carroll Noël
Published: November 2023

This article examines two approaches to aesthetic experience, especially with respect to the practice of art criticism. The two approaches are (1) aesthetic experience construed as experience necessarily valued for its own sake and (2) aesthetic experience characterized in terms of its content. In this article, the content approach is defended as the one most suitable to the practice of art criticism.
Plato: Educating through Images
Authors: Bantinaki Katerina , Vassiliou Fotini , Antaloudaki Anna , Athanasiadou Alexandra
Published: November 2023

In Book X of the Republic, Plato develops a structured criticism of the images of painting in order to denigrate, by means of analogy, the cognitive value of poetry. Yet Plato persistently employs verbal images at points of utmost importance with regard to his philosophical aims. In the face of Plato's critique of the image, his methodic use of images can seem paradoxical: critique and method point in opposing directions with regard to the cognitive value of the image. The aim of this article is to promote a moderate cognitivist stance on Plato's use of verbal images, using to this end the understanding that contemporary philosophy affords us. Operating through the lens of the metaphor of “philosophical paintings,” which they deem as apt and instructive, the authors (a) trace in Book X's critique of painting the specific properties of the verbal images that can allow a cognitive function in the context of philosophical instruction, (b) examine and refute a pertinent objection to this moderate cognitivist stance, and (c) argue for the overall consistency between the critique of Book X and Plato's use of verbal images, drawing on evidence in Plato's practice that he acknowledges the risk of the image's allure and is proactive in relation to this risk.
Gender Inequality in India
Authors:   Student (3rd Year) Department of Law (B.A.LL.B) Institute KIIT School of Law, Cuttack India., Khandelwal Piyush
Published: November 2023

Gender imbalance has an impact on all societal levels and most social organisations. One institution where gender imbalance adjustments are sluggish to take place is the family. Over the years, several theories have been proposed on the causes of gender inequality. These explanations for gender inequality in the home have all been put out, including those based on biology, sex roles, and doing gender. These approaches have come under fire for being unduly predetermined, unable to address gender inequity at macrosocial scales, and neglecting to consider reform. Gender is examined simultaneously at all levels of social reality from the viewpoint that it is structural. To the degree that we are able to take advantage of its complexity, we may be able to use this dynamic, multifaceted theoretical framework to solve gender disparity in families. The gender as structural perspective is most adapted to analyse gender disparity in modern families, which are themselves characterised by dynamic fluidity and complexity, and to present viable avenues for resolving that discrepancy 1.This comes after examining and analysing a number of historical perspectives on gender discrimination2.The problem is that gender inequality in India is significantly influenced by the cultural and religious landscape of the country3. One start thinking about how equal men and women are, and many of India's centuries-old cultural traditions need to be reflected upon and rearranged. For many Indian families that practise sex discrimination, any calls for reform or efforts to eliminate prejudice are viewed as an attack on their political, social, or cultural traditions4.
Assessing the Effectiveness of the NEP in Higher Education Institutions GER in India
Authors:   MBA, M.Phil. Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, (Tamil Nadu), India., Narasimhan Vijayalakshmi
Published: November 2023

The National Education Policy (NEP) aims to bring about significant changes in the Indian education system. One of the key indicators of the effectiveness of this policy is the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). This document seeks to assess the impact and effectiveness of the NEP on the GER in HEIs.
Measurement Capabilities and Equipment at the Building Material Characterization Laboratory of Aalborg University (2024)
Authors:   Aalborg University, Johra Hicham
Published: November 2023

The aim of this short communication report is to provide synthetic information concerning the measurement capabilities and equipment of the Building Material Characterization Laboratory of Aalborg University - Department of the Built Environment. This laboratory uses state-of-the-art equipment to determine the thermophysical properties and the heat-air-moisture transport characteristics of materials, especially construction materials.
Program Pakar untuk Penentu Kesehatan Tanah dengan Metode Backward Chaining berbasis Landsat Normalized Difference Vegetation Index
Authors: Suwarno Dian Pratama Putra , Nanda Satya Nugraha  , Betti Yuniasih  , Teddy Suparyanto
Published: November 2023

Tingkat kesuburan tanah semakin menurun setiap tahunnya, penurunan ini menjadikan tanah semakin tidak sehat dan berpotensi untuk menurunkan produktivitas tanah, sehingga ini juga akan mempengaruhi tingkat kesehatan tanah yang seiring dengan menurunnya kesuburan tanah. Usaha yang dilakukan tergolong masih kurang, kekurangan usaha ini disebabkan adanya disinformasi pengelolaan tanah/lahan, mitigasi yang tidak tepat, dan sangat kurangnya rekomendasi penanganan tanah terdegradasi. Hal ini menyebabkan perlakuan setiap lahan dan rekomendasi setiap penanganan lahan menjadi sesuatu yang sulit, padahal sangat mudah untuk dilakukan. Rekomendasi dapat menggunakan sistem pakar sebagai penentukkan pengelolaan lanjutan (advance management system) dan mitigasi terdegradasinya lahan (mitigating land degradation). Metode Backward Chaining memilih beberapa kesimpulan yang mungkin dan mencoba membuktikan kesimpulan tersebut dari bukti-bukti yang ada. Strategi pengambilan keputusan atau kesimpulan dengan pencocokan fakta atau pernyataan sebagai bahan penalaran  program dimulai dari hipotesis terlebih dahulu, dan untuk menguji kebenaran hipotesis tersebut harus dicari fakta-fakta yang ada dalam basis pengetahuan. Langkah yang dilakukan pada penelitian ini adalah dengan mendapatkan data Landsat Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) dimana kategori output adalah warna dari lahan hasil citra satelit yang dibagi menjadi 3 kategori yaitu 1) Red (Merah); 2) Green (Hijau); 3) Blue (Biru); dimana setiap warna tersebut terdiri dari algoritma yang mengimplementasikan hasil dari tingkat kesehatan dan kesuburan tanah. Hasil penelitian menyatakan bahwa dari diimplementasikannya hasil survey dengan program pakar memeberikan hasil yang sejalan dengan program pakar, dimana kesehatan tanah yang rendah dengan nilai NDVI -1 s/d 0, pada kesehatan tanah sedang nilai NDVI 0 s/d 0,33, dan pada kesehatan tanah tinggi nilai NDVI 0,33 s/d 0,66.
Development of Roughness Prediction Model for Sri Lankan Expressways
Authors:   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Nilawfer Sidhan , Madushani Sachini ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Sandamal Kelum ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Gomes Ayantha ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology
Published: November 2023

Expressways play a pivotal role in industrial and export development in Sri Lanka by providing access to the production sector in addition to the passenger transport in between transport hubs. A reliable pavement performance prediction model is essential for pavement management systems to optimize the cost of maintenance and rehabilitation planning. In this study, pavement roughness prediction of expressways in the long-term performance was conducted using International Roughness Index (IRI) which is used as a global parameter to measure the ride comfort of road users and the unevenness of pavement. Firstly, initial IRI values for Sri Lankan expressways were established by using current data and found that, it varies between 0.90 to 1.45 m/km. Secondly, IRI prediction model developed with cumulative traffic volume, considering outer lane IRI as the dependent variable due to higher deterioration rate compared to inner lane. Moreover, it was found that, there is a good relationship between IRI with cumulative traffic with R-squared of 0.60. Further, it can be concluded that, the outcomes of this study can be effectively used for Sri Lankan context in long term performance evaluation and expressway maintenance planning. KEYWORDS: International Roughness Index, Expressways, Pavement Deterioration, Cumulative traffic
Physical and Mechanical Characteristics of Lime-based Cementitious Grout
Authors:   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Thienoosan S , Goonewardena D.J.C.Y ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Tharmarajah G ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka
Published: November 2023

Grout is an essential part in soil and rock anchoring while large amount of grout is consumed in anchoring process and capacity of anchoring can be increased by strengthening the grout. Increasing the strength of the grout or achieving the strength of the cement-based grout by partially replacing the cement with hydrated lime and by adding coir fiber can produce sustainable and structurally acceptable grout. This research study investigates grout with water/solid (w/s) ratio of 0.45, 0.7 while replacing the blended Hydraulic cement (BHC) content with hydrated lime by 35%, 50% and 65% with 1% coir fiber, superplasticizer and silica fume. The results show that flow of the grout is reduced with the addition of lime, fiber. Bleeding is improved in the lime-based grout. Compressive strength reduces with the addition of lime while grout achieves improved strength in long term. Compositions with 35% Lime content showed better performance and w/s ratio of 0.45 had the best compositions comparing the physical and mechanical characteristics. The fiber grout sample with w/s = 0.45 and 35% lime content had the best results with flow of 135mm, final bleeding of 3.75%, bleeding settlement in less than one hour and compressive strength at 7days, 28days are 10.4Mpa, 21.75Mpa respectively. KEYWORDS: Soil Anchoring, Lime-based grout, Coconut coir fiber, Mechanical characteristics, Physical properties.
Optimum Synchronization of Grid-connected Renewable Energy Source
Authors:   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Fernando Nayomi , Ganepola Dinushi ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Hettiwatte Sujeewa ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka
Published: November 2023

In the last decades, wind power production has become one of the major concerns to investigate in enhancing the utilization of renewable energy resources in microgrids. Wind power can regulate environmental-friendly power generation which helps to satisfy the power demand in the grid whenever it is essential. This research has been carried out for analyzing behavior of Wind Energy Conversion System (WECS) and appropriate technique for grid synchronization in optimum way. Therefore, this includes the analysis of synchronization procedures and design an optimization technique for synchronization of WECS which is connected to the grid via an inverter. Also, it comprises existing renewable energy systems and applications on synchronization techniques. Mainly, this paper proposes an optimal synchronizing control scheme which verifies deterministic and reliable reconnection to the grid. The control scheme was designed using MATLAB Simulink software and the results were interpreted that the concept is efficient and reliable to optimize the microgrid operations. KEYWORDS: Integral Time Absolute Error (ITAE), Phase Locked Loop (PLL), Proportional Integral (PI), Wind Energy Conversion System (WECS), Pulse Width Modulation (PWM), Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT)
Study on the Impact of Cost Controlling Techniques in Mini Hydropower Projects in Sri Lanka
Authors:   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Hirunika Shalini , Gunarathna Nishanthi ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Perera Samindi ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka
Published: November 2023

Due to the worst economic crisis, Sri Lanka is currently facing sporadic power failures. There is a lack of dollar reserves to pay for the fuel suppliers and the existing national grid network has failed to power the whole nation. The prevailing situation is becoming quite challengeable since there is a huge power crisis due to the shortage of fuel oil which causes to fail whole operations of oil power plants. Therefore, Sri Lanka has relied on hydropower for a majority of its electricity needs. The share of mini hydropower power plants is performing a significant role in contemporary electricity generation considering national policy targets in order to move with sustainable green energy. Consequently, the necessity of the establishment of MHP plants has become higher but there are significant cost overrun factors identified in the construction phase of MHP projects. This research was carried out to identify the cost overrun factors in MHP projects in Sri Lanka. As a result, efficient cost-control measures will be required to address the above matter. Therefore, it was expected to explore the current practices of cost control techniques used in infrastructure projects based on the findings. Various cost control approaches have been created from time to time throughout the last few years. These may include Earn Value Management (EVM), performance reviews, variance analysis, value engineering, site meetings, work programmes, daily material and labor controlling, etc. The data collection process was conducted through questionnaire surveys which are distributed between industry professionals who have enough knowledge and experience regarding the MHP projects. The set of data was converted into quantitative values and collected data from the questionnaire surveys were evaluated by using percentage analysis and weighted score analysis. The results indicates the challenges in current cost control practices and identify the mechanisms to overcome those challenges and determine their effectiveness in mini hydropower project delivery in Sri Lanka. KEYWORDS: Mini hydro power, renewable energy, cost overrun, cost control, cost controlling techniques.
Critical Driving Factors Influencing Awareness and Application of Industrialized Building System (IBS) Technology Among the Building Contractors in Sri Lanka
Authors:   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Chandrasena Sasangi , Mallawaarachchi Harshini ,   University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka
Published: November 2023

As the commonly applied approach in building construction, conventional construction approach is linked to low quality and productivity, higher danger to employee safety, high reliance on labour and cost and time overruns. Hence, Industrialised Building System (IBS) has been emerged as an alternative for conventional construction by overcoming its shortfalls. Previous studies identified the lack of awareness and application can be taken as most critical factor influencing the application of IBS. Also, there are some of other critical factors which directly influence for this regard. Since a few studies has been focused on evaluating the significance of such driving factors, the purpose of this research was to assess the criticality of driving factors influencing awareness and application of IBS technology among the building contractors in Sri Lanka. In order to fulfil aim and objectives of the research, deductive approach under quantitative phenomenon was used. The Survey strategy was adopted as the most ideal research strategy as this research focused on evaluating the criticality of driving factors. Questionnaire survey was used as the primary data collection technique. Accordingly, the questionnaire was distributed to 50 randomly selected practitioners from the building contracting organisations, such as Architects, Quantity Surveyors and Engineers to collect the data. Data were analyzed by using Weighted Mean Average (WMA) and Relative Importance Index (RII) techniques. As derived through analysis, 13 factors affecting the level of awareness and application of IBS, which were identified through literature review were assessed to determine the significant factors. Results revealed that cost of construction is the most significant factor while small contractors’ involvement is the least significant factor. As the main implication this research provides a basis to further improve the use of IBS technology in Sri Lanka and introduce different methods to reduce the initial cost of the construction. KEYWORDS: Application, awareness, building construction industry, building contractors, industrialised building system, Sri Lanka
Application of Peak Over Threshold Approach to Model Extreme Motor Insurance Claims: A Case Study
Authors:   Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, Appuhamy P.A.D.A.N , Borelessa N.K ,   Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, Ekanayake E.M.P ,   Wayamba University of Sri Lanka
Published: November 2023

Prior to the economic recession in Sri Lanka, the motor insurance business grew significantly due to the excessive importation of vehicles. More vehicles on the road and reckless driving increase the risk of extreme claims, which creates a negative impact on the industry. In order to mitigate this issue, researchers attempted to model extreme claims and thereby to provide information for better management of business. The objective of this study is to identify the best fit model for tail of the claim distribution based on data obtained from a pioneer insurer in Sri Lanka from July to December of 2021. The Peak Over Threshold approach of the Extreme Value Theory was applied to model the extreme claims. The claims at 20 percentiles between 79% and 98% were considered as tentative thresholds and the excessive amounts over each of these thresholds were modeled separately as Generalized Pareto Distributions (GPDs) using four different parameter estimation methods. Then the Mean Squared Error (MSE) at each threshold for each parameter estimation method was examined to compare their performances. The threshold and the parameter estimation method with the minimum MSE were selected as their optimum values while identifying the GPD fitted as the best model. The Bootstrap goodness of fit measured the validity of modelling. The extent of claims varied from Rs. 2167.00 to 193,065.00 during the study period with a positive skewness of 2.45 and leptokurtic, which confirmed the existence of a heavy tailed distribution for claims. The best fitted model was the GPD with the shape and scale of 1.02 and 92.09 respectively, which was attained at the optimal threshold of 91st percentile using the Biased Probability Weighted Moment method. The information on the tail helps review existing strategies for the better management of risk due to such extreme claims in future. KEYWORDS: Claims, Generalized Pareto Distribution, Insurance, Percentile, Threshold.
Simulating the Effects of Active Aerodynamics on the Suspension System of a Formula Student Race Car
Authors:   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Epakande Chanaka , Dayawansa Bhanuka ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Liyanage Migara ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka
Published: November 2023

Active aerodynamics is a growing topic in the automotive industry. With technological advancements at play, it has begun to spread across multiple avenues such as road vehicle ride comfort and the development of active suspension systems. However, the application of active aerodynamics in Formula cars has not been a commonly discussed topic. Furthermore, the effects of active aerodynamics on the suspension system have not been assessed for Formula Student race cars. Therefore, this study looks to obtain an understanding about how actively changing the Angles of Attack of an aerodynamic front wing and a rear wing would affect the suspension system of a Formula Student race car. The study was done by first choosing a wing profile using the XFLR5 software, modelling the front and rear wings using SolidWorks, according to the parametric guidelines of the Formula Student Competition for different angles of attack, analysing coefficients of lift and drag of the wings for each angle of attack using Ansys Workbench, and by performing full-vehicle acceleration and cornering analyses on MSC Adams Car to find how changing these coefficients affects the suspension dampers along the direction normal to the ground the vehicle travels on. This research would help understand the many forces acting on the suspension and to explore further developments in this area such as active aerodynamics in Formula Student race cars in the future. KEYWORDS: Aerofoil, Angle of Attack (AOA), Lift, Drag, Formula Student United Kingdom (FSUK), Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Coefficient of Lift (CL), Coefficient of Drag (CD), Computer Aided Design (CAD).
A Multifunctional Communication System for Differently Abled People
Authors:   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Gunaratne K.M.S.T , Senanayaka V.P ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Walakuluarachchi E.I ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Malasinghe Lakmini ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka
Published: November 2023

A person should be able to connect with other people to have a fulfilling life. Having challenges such as being blind, deaf, or mute is a significant concern in this matter. According to world statistics and research, it has shown that 0.2% of the world’s population lives with severe deaf blindness. This project aims to design and develop a communication system to improve interactions between a person without any disability and a deaf-blind person or between two deaf-blind people. Each may communicate differently, so this system will have a textual display for those who can see, a speech output for those who can hear, and a tactile braille display for those who cannot see or hear. This system can benefit educational institutes and care homes facilitating people with the above disabilities. The primary purpose of this system is to make the differently abled people feel independent and confident by seeing, hearing, and talking to each other without facing the barriers in the translation. KEYWORDS: Visually Impaired, Deaf and Mute, Voice to Text, American Sign Language, Braille Keyboard, Hand Gestures, Convolution Neutral Networks.