bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Tocilizumab on Inflammatory Markers and Oxygen Status in
Severe COVID-19 Patients: A Single Centre Retrospective Study
Authors: Sharma Abhishek , Nathiya Deepak , Suman Supriya , Bareth Hemant , Singh Mahaveer , Sharma Eshan
Published: February 2022

Objective:

This retrospective study aims to investigate the impact of tocilizumab on inflammatory
markers in patients with severe COVID-19. The effect on oxygenation was also assessed.

Methods:

This retrospective study aims to investigate the impact of tocilizumab on inflammatory
markers in patients with severe COVID-19. The effect on oxygenation was also assessed.

Results:

The mean age of the subjects was 57.8 ± 12.2 years, and 78.57% were male. Forty-four percent
of the patient had type 2 diabetes. Tocilizumab treatment was associated with reduction in the
oxygen requirement [median:10 L/min (IQR6- 14)] v/s 4 L/min (IQR 3-7, p-0.005]. Peripheral oxygen
saturation also improved after tocilizumab [92 % (IQR 90-96)] v/s [95 % (IQR 94-96), p-0.01)], respectively.
Serum CRP level decreased significantly when evaluated after three days (44±5 v/s 20 ±3
mg/dl, p=< 0.001). Out of the 42, 12 (29%) patients died due to severe COVID-19 or its complications.
When compared with the patients who survived, patients who died had a higher level of D-dimer
(1.2 ± 0.51 v/s 3.1 ±1.2 ng/dl, p-value- 0.04), and LDH: (845 ±55 v/s 1364 ±198 U/L, p - 0.01). At day
seven of the tocilizumab injection, diabetic patients (n-13) had higher IL-6 serum level than nondiabetic
patients (n-16) [(median- 311(IQR-1245.5) v/s (209 (IQR-546.2), p-value- 0.048].

Results:

In this retrospective pre-post analysis, tocilizumab injection was associated with reduced
inflammation and improved oxygenation in severe COVID-19. Despite high IL-6 levels, diabetes had
no impact on the efficacy of the tocilizumab.
Realization of Seventh-Order Chebyshev Active Low-Pass Filter
Authors: Li Yong-An
Published: February 2022

Background:

CCCII implementation of the classic seventh-order Chebyshev filter is relatively rare. This work is a supplement to it.

Methods:

By a floating negative simulating resistance using single the second generation current-controlled conveyor (CCCII), we design a new current buffer to employ one CCCII and one multiple output CCCII (MOCCCII), and a new grounded MOCCCII-employed the frequency-dependent negative resistance (FDNR). Moreover, by employing a classic seventh-order Chebyshev passive filter as a prototype and utilizing adjoint network theory, a seventh-order Chebyshev active low-pass filter is realized through applying the Bruton transform, frequency and impedance scaling technique, FDNR, and component replacement method. The filter employs only grounded capacitors and nine CCCIIs, and its the performance can be controlled through adjusting bias currents of the CCCIIs.

Results:

The designed circuit is simulated with Multisim, which shows that the filter is correct and effective.

Conclusion:

A seventh-order Chebyshev active low-pass filter with Amax=0.5 dB and fc=10 kHz, is realized.
Os Tempos Verbais e as Relações Temporais em Notícias
Authors: Santos Beatriz , Silva Catarina
Published: February 2022

Thisarticlehasasitsfirstobjectivetoverifywhichverbaltensespredominateinthenewsandasasecondobjectivetoverifyandanalyzetheexistingtemporalrelationsaswellastheverbaltensespresentintheserelations.Tothisend,weanalyzedacorpusconsistingof10newsitems,allcenteredonthethemeofcriminalityandwithsimilarsizes.Afterouranalysis,wefoundthatthepretéritoperfeito(SimplePast)andthepresente(Present)ofindicativo(indicative)werethepredominant verb tenses and the relationship of anteriority was the most recurrent.
"Ser" e "estar" e diferentes tipos de estados
Authors: Ribeiro Rita Nunes
Published: February 2022

ThisworkwascarriedoutwiththeobjectiveofpresentingsomedifferencesbetweenserandestaraccordingtoMarín(2015),Cunha(1998),CunhaandFerreira(2003),Gumiel-Molina&Pérez-Jiménez(2012),amongothers,usingacorpustakenfromtheCETEMPúblicoplatform.Themainobjectiveofthisprojectistoidentifythepreferredconstructionsoftheverbsserandestarandthus define the typology of the adjectives selected by the verbs in these constructions.
As construções passivas impessoais: uma análise contrastiva entre o português europeu e o francês
Authors: Silva Mariana Sofia
Published: February 2022

Eventhoughtraditionalgrammarviewspassiveconstructionsasmere“mirrors”oftheiractivecounterparts,manytheoreticiansarguethatpassiveconstructionshavetheirownindependentsyntacticstructure.Inthispaper,wetakeacontrastiveapproachonimpersonalpassiveconstructions.Intheseconstructions,theNPremainsintheclassicalDirectObjectposition,butittriggersagreement,whichshowsthatitbehavesasSubject.Thismaybeduetoatransmissionofnominativecaseinformationfromanemptycategory.ThisispossibleinEuropeanPortuguese,butnotinFrench,duetodifferencesinwhichconcernstheNullSubjectParameter in these two languages.
Fundamentals of computer systems
Authors: Fernandes João M.
Published: February 2022

Computers were originally invented to solve all sort of mathematical problems. Nowadays, computers do much more than that and are present in all human activities. In fact, a computer is a fantastic machine capable of doing the most amazing tasks, if an appropriate program is provided. A computer system contains hardware and systems software that work together to run software applications. Interestingly, the underlying concepts that support the construction of a computer are relatively stable. In fact, (almost) all computer systems have a similar organisation, i.e., their hardware and software components are arranged in hierarchical layers and perform similar functions. This book was written for programmers and software engineers who want to comprehend how the components of a computer work and how they affect the correctness and performance of their programs.
A Power factor corrector using interleaved boost fuzzy-logic converter: design, analysis, and implementation
Authors: Jati Mentari Putri
Published: February 2022

The technology for developing power factor correction is increasingly being discussed because of the increasing number of nonlinear loads that exist. This is related to power quality which can affect load system performance because nonlinear loads cause low power factor and the appearance of harmonic currents. However, it takes a power factor corrector converter that has a simple construction and reliable performance. Interleaved Boost Converter is often applied as a power factor corrector converter because it has these advantages. Combined with a fuzzy controller it is a proposed system to achieve a near unity power factor. The discontinuous Conduction Mode (DCM) technique is used because it has an efficient inductor design. The results of the proposed system design were proven by simulation and hardware implementation which resulted in significant power factor improvements.
Energy balance analysis on Rimbo Dua palm oil
Authors: Hidayat Arif , Wibowo Ari , Harnowo Saptyaji
Published: February 2022

Palm Oil Mill is an industry that uses biomass as an energy generator to run the process. The biomass used is fiber, shells, and empty fruit bunches. Energy efficiency is needed in the process; therefore, it requires energy balance in the power generation system, distribution, and use of energy produced by biomass. PKS Rimbo Duo has a processing capacity of 30 tonnes/hour. Broadly speaking, the energy system at PKS Rimbo Dua includes steam energy production equipment such as boilers and steam and electricity energy conversion equipment in the form of steam turbines and generators (alternators) as well as storage equipment for the expansion of steam energy in the form of opposing pressure storage vessels (BPV). Energy balance analysis is carried out by analyzing data methods obtained from the performance of operating equipment and conducting field surveys and measurements of predetermined parameters, especially in boilers, water treatment, and turbines. Analysis of fuel use is also carried out to determine the quality of the fuel and the potential for steam produced. The result of this research is that the average efficiency of the boiler is 63.23%, which is still below the 73% boiler design. One of the reasons is that the flue gas temperature reaches 260 oC. The steam turbine has an efficiency of 44% isentropically with SSC = 31.9 kg / kWh when compared to the standard norm, the SSC value is still too high. The results of the water analysis also found the P and M alkalinity values, and the water pH was still 9.8. The results of the analysis of these data can be used as a reference for actions whether it is a repair of equipment, replacement of equipment, and improvement of operational parameters.
Research on the automatic generation code for nuclear fuel reloading patterns in pressurized water-cooled reactors
Authors: Kristanto Abednego , Kan Wang , Sitao Peng
Published: February 2022

A method for automated generation program for nuclear fuel reloading patterns in Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) has been developed. This newly-developed method consists of six different steps to minimize the maximum FΔH value, and maximize the reactor cycle length. Step 1 is initial fuel placement that is expected to produce the longest cycle length possible with the selected Fuel Assemblies (FAs) for the current cycle. Step 2 is aiming to decrease the FΔH value of the FA with the maximum FΔH. Step 3 aims to increase the FΔH value of the old FA with the lowest FΔH. Step 4 is rotating FA with the lowest FΔH value to increase its FΔH value, and rotating several old FAs in the neighboring FA with the maximum FΔH value to decrease the maximum FΔH value. Step 5 is aiming to increase the FΔH value of FA with the lowest FΔH value. The last step or step 6, will try to move FAs that have high k∞ in the periphery zone, inward to increase the cycle length of the reactor. These steps are translated into code in the Python programming language to enable automatic execution in a computer. A 3D nuclear reactor core neutronic code, COCO, is used for the calculation of FΔH value and reactor cycle length. Every nuclear power plant designer company will have their FΔH peaking factor safety limit in accordance with their DNB experiments and calculations, and the FΔH value safety limit used in this research is 1.46. A PWR loading pattern model is used to test this method. During the test, all the steps in this method are successfully executed in a total of 25 iterations plus one initialization calculation and produced acceptable results. The results of this method are all of the loading patterns found in all steps which have the maximum FΔH value below the defined criterion values. In the mentioned PWR loading pattern model, four optimized loading patterns are found using this method, all of which can be selected in the PWR refueling loading pattern design.
Kesalahan siswa dalam menyelesaikan soal operasi bilangan model ujian negara tingkat SMP
Authors: Vionita Alfha , Hartono Hartono
Published: February 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan jenis kesalahan siswa dalam menyelesaikan soal operasi bilangan model Ujian Negara (UN) untuk tingkat SMP. Penelitian ini termasuk penelitian survei dengan pendekatan kuantitatif. Survei dilaksanakan pada siswa SMP kelas IX se-Kabupaten Dharmasraya, Indonesia. Sampel penelitian sebanyak 104 siswa dipilih menggunakan teknik stratified propotional random sampling. Instrumen penelitian menggunakan tes diagnostik berupa soal uraian yang dimodifikasi dari soal pilihan ganda pada UN tingkat SMP. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa jenis kesalahan siswa dalam menyelesaikan soal operasi bilangan model UN untuk tingkat SMP yaitu kesalahan membaca (reading erorrs) sebanyak 30%; kesalahan pemahaman (comprehension errors) sebanyak 40%; kesalahan transformasi (transformations errors) sebanyak 83%; kesalahan keterampilan proses (processing skill errors) sebanyak 85%; dan kesalahan menarik kesimpulan (encoding errors) sebanyak 85%. AbstractThis study aimed to describe the types of students’ errors in solving the number operation problem of the state examination (Ujian Negara or UN) model for the junior high school level. This study was a survey with a quantitative approach. The survey was conducted on ninth-grade junior high school stu­dents in Dharmasraya Regency, Indonesia. The number of study samples was 104 students who were selected using the stratified proportional random sam­pling technique. The instrument used was a diagnostic test in the form of an essay problem which was modified from the multiple-choice national exami­nation test at the junior high school level. The results showed that the types of students’ errors in solving the UN model problem on the topic of number ope­rations were: reading errors (30%); comprehension error (40%); transforma­tions errors (83%); processing skill errors (85%); and encoding errors (85%).
Efektivitas model pembelajaran creative problem solving ditinjau dari kemampuan penalaran, komunikasi, dan self esteem
Authors: Rachman Abdillah , Rosnawati Raden
Published: February 2022

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah mendeskripsikan perbedaan efektifitas model pembelajaran creative problem solving dan model pembelajaran konvensional ditinjau dari kemampuan penalaran, komunikasi, dan self-esteem. Penelitian ini adalah penelitian quasi-experiment dengan desain penelitian nonequivalent comparison group design. Subjek penelitian merupakan peserta didik di salah satu MAN di Purbalingga, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia, pada materi transformasi geometri. Sampel terdiri dari 60 siswa dari dua kelas IPA yang masing-masing mengikuti model pembelajaran konvensional dan model pembelajaran creative problem solving. Instrumen penelitian ini terdiri dari tes kemampuan penalaran, tes kemampuan komunikasi serta angket self-esteem. Teknik analisis menggunakan analisis deskriptif dan Hotteling’s Trace. Hasil penelitian pada taraf signifikansi 5% menunjukkan bahwa:  (1) model pembelajaran creative problem solving efektif ditinjau dari kemampuan penalaran, komunikasi, dan self-esteem; (2) model pembelajaran konvensional efektif ditinjau dari kemampuan penalaran, komunikasi, dan self-esteem; dan (3) terdapat perbedaan keefektifan antara model pembelajaran creative problem solving dan konvensional ditinjau dari kemampuan penalaran, komunikasi, dan self-esteem.Abstract This study aims to reveal the differences in the effectiveness of creative problem solving and conventional learning models in terms of reasoning ability, communication, and self-esteem. This research was a quasi-experimental research with a nonequivalent comparison group design. The research subjects were students of a state Islamic senior high school in Purbalingga, Central Java, Indonesia on geometry transformation material. The sample was 60 students from two science classes who learn with conventional learning model and creative problem solving learning model. The research instrument consists of a reasoning ability test, a communication skill test, and a self-esteem questionnaire. The analysis used the descriptive analysis and Hotteling's Trace. The results of the study at the significance level of 5% indicated that: (1) the creative problem solving learning model was effective in terms of reasoning ability, communication, and self-esteem; (2) the conventional learning model was effective in terms of reasoning ability, communication, and self-esteem; (3) there were differences in effectiveness between creative problem solving and conventional learning models in terms of reasoning ability, communication, and self-esteem.
Deep Learning in mHealth for Cardiovascular Disease, Diabetes, and Cancer: Systematic Review
Authors: Triantafyllidis Andreas , Kondylakis Haridimos , Katehakis Dimitrios , Kouroubali Angelina , Koumakis Lefteris , Marias Kostas , Alexiadis Anastasios , Votis Konstantinos , Tzovaras Dimitrios
Published: February 2022

Background

Major chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease (CVD), diabetes, and cancer impose a significant burden on people and health care systems around the globe. Recently, deep learning (DL) has shown great potential for the development of intelligent mobile health (mHealth) interventions for chronic diseases that could revolutionize the delivery of health care anytime, anywhere.

Objective

The aim of this study is to present a systematic review of studies that have used DL based on mHealth data for the diagnosis, prognosis, management, and treatment of major chronic diseases and advance our understanding of the progress made in this rapidly developing field.

Methods

A search was conducted on the bibliographic databases Scopus and PubMed to identify papers with a focus on the deployment of DL algorithms that used data captured from mobile devices (eg, smartphones, smartwatches, and other wearable devices) targeting CVD, diabetes, or cancer. The identified studies were synthesized according to the target disease, the number of enrolled participants and their age, and the study period as well as the DL algorithm used, the main DL outcome, the data set used, the features selected, and the achieved performance.

Results

In total, 20 studies were included in the review. A total of 35% (7/20) of DL studies targeted CVD, 45% (9/20) of studies targeted diabetes, and 20% (4/20) of studies targeted cancer. The most common DL outcome was the diagnosis of the patient’s condition for the CVD studies, prediction of blood glucose levels for the studies in diabetes, and early detection of cancer. Most of the DL algorithms used were convolutional neural networks in studies on CVD and cancer and recurrent neural networks in studies on diabetes. The performance of DL was found overall to be satisfactory, reaching >84% accuracy in most studies. In comparison with classic machine learning approaches, DL was found to achieve better performance in almost all studies that reported such comparison outcomes. Most of the studies did not provide details on the explainability of DL outcomes.

Conclusions

The use of DL can facilitate the diagnosis, management, and treatment of major chronic diseases by harnessing mHealth data. Prospective studies are now required to demonstrate the value of applied DL in real-life mHealth tools and interventions.
International Technologies on Prevention and Treatment of Neurological and Psychiatric Diseases: Bibliometric Analysis of Patents (Preprint)
Authors: Zheng Fuhao , Wang Ling , Zeng Zhaonan , Wu Siying
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Neurological and psychiatric disorders are serious and expensive global public health problems. Therefore, exploring effective intervention technologies plays an important role in improving patients’ clinical symptoms and social functions, as well as reducing medical burden.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to analyze and summarize the key new technologies and innovative development trends witnessed globally for neurological illness and psychiatric disorders by mining the relevant patent data.

METHODS

A bibliometric analysis was conducted on patent applications, priority countries, main patentees, hot technologies, and other patent information on neurological and psychiatric disorders, revealing the current situation along with the trend of technology development in this field.

RESULTS

In recent years, inventions and innovations related to neurological and psychiatric diseases have become very active, with China being the largest patent priority country. Of the top patent holders, Visicu (headquartered in the United States) is the leader. The distribution of patent holders in China remains relatively scattered, with no monopoly organization at present. Global technologies on neurological illness and psychiatric disorders are mainly concentrated around A61B (diagnosis, surgery, and identification).

CONCLUSIONS

This paper analyzed and summarized the key new technologies and global innovative development trends of neurological and psychiatric diseases by mining the relevant patent data, and provides practical references and research perspectives for the prevention and treatment of the aforesaid diseases.
Continuous remote patient monitoring in heart failure patients (CASCADE study): mixed methods feasibility protocol (Preprint)
Authors: Reamer Courtney , Chi Wei Ning , Gordon Robert , Sarswat Nitasha , Gupta Charu , Gaznabi Safwan , White VanGompel Emily , Szum Isabella , Morton-Jost Melissa , Vaughn Jorma , Larimer Karen , Victorson David , Erwin John , Halasyamani Lakshmi , Solomonides Anthony , Padman Rema , Shah Nirav S
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Heart failure (HF) is a prevalent chronic disease and is associated with increases in mortality and morbidity. HF is a leading cause of hospitalizations and readmissions in the United States. A potentially promising area for preventing HF readmissions is continuous remote patient monitoring (CRPM).

OBJECTIVE

The primary aim of this study is to determine the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a CRPM solution on HF patients at NorthShore University HealthSystem (NSUHS).

METHODS

This study is a feasibility study and will use a wearable biosensor to continuously, remotely monitor HF patients for 30 days post discharge. Eligible patients admitted with a HF exacerbation at NSUHS will be recruited and the wearable biosensor will be placed prior to discharge. The biosensor will collect physiological ambulatory data, which will be analyzed for signs of patient deterioration. Participants will also complete a daily survey through a dedicated study phone. If prespecified criteria from the physiological data and survey results are met a notification will be triggered and a predetermined EHR-based pathway of telephonic management will be completed. In phase I, which has already been completed, five patients were enrolled and monitored for 30 days post-discharge. The results of phase I were analyzed and modifications to the program were made to optimize it. Following analysis of the results from phase I, 15 patients are being enrolled for phase II, which is a calibration and testing period to enable further adjustments to be made. Following phase II, 45 patients will be enrolled for phase III. These results will be analyzed to determine the feasibility of a CRPM program in HF patients. Semi-structured interviews will also be conducted with key stakeholders, including patients, and these results will be analyzed using the Affective Adaptation of the Technology Acceptance Model (A/TAM).

RESULTS

Phase I has been completed and results have been published. Phase II and phase III results will be available by the end of 2022.

CONCLUSIONS

A CRPM program may offer a low-risk solution to improve care of HF patients post hospital discharge and may help decrease readmission of HF patients to the hospital. This protocol may also lay the groundwork for the use of CRPM solutions in other high risk patient groups.

CLINICALTRIAL

NCT04738279
Online Symptom Checkers:
Exploring the need for a standardised clinical validation process (Preprint)
Authors: Painter Annabelle Charlotte , Hayhoe Benedict , El-Osta Austen
Published: February 2022

UNSTRUCTURED

The use of online symptom checkers (OSCs) is increasing but their safety, efficacy and impact on healthcare systems remain unclear. The lack of a standardised validation process and the absence of third-party testing requirements have resulted in significant variation in OSC clinical performance.

Discrepancy in the findings of comparative studies to date suggests that several steps in OSC evaluation methodology can significantly influence outcomes. A uniform validation process with a clear specification is urgently required to objectively assess the performance of OSCs and help improve patient safety. Careful consideration and clear guidance for each of these steps will be required to create an objective validation standard that is robust and fair.

An objective validation process could support the widescale adoption of OSC in the community setting with the potential to reduce pressure on scarce NHS resources, especially for self-limiting conditions.
Inventive Methodology on Adaptive Hierarchy Segmentation of Bone Cancer Using Neural Network in MATLAB
Authors: Markhande Hemant
Published: February 2022

Abstract: This research creates a curiosity among people that how technology brings its value to the medical sector. This study is manly based on how Artificial Neural Network (ANN) technology collaborated with the MATLAB and gives magnificent results with the help of Digital X-rays. The project focuses on how technology is creating an ease to the medical sector while diagnosing a patient with a tumor. With this technology doctors can identify and help to cure the tumor at its initial stage. This technology benefited thousands of patients with their tumor. The method is contributing its intelligence to gives more accurate, faster and convenient results. The primary goal of our research is to make an algorithm which brings its value over the table in comparison with the older ones Keywords: Tumor, ANN, Digital X-Ray
Sensotronic Brake Control System
Authors: Korde Manas , Tayade Himanshu
Published: February 2022

Abstract: Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC™) works electronically, and thus faster and more precisely, than a conventional hydraulic braking system. As soon as you press the brake pedal and the sensors identify the driving situation in hand, the computer makes an exact calculation of the brake force necessary and distributes it between the wheels as required. This allows SBC™ to critically reduce stopping distances. SBC™ also helps to optimise safety functions such as ESP®, ASR, ABS and BAS. Keywords: SBC, ABS. BAS, TCS, ESP
Sign Language Detector using cloud
Authors: Alam Taokeer , R Dr. Murugan
Published: February 2022

Abstract: Peoples who are deaf/dumb use Sign language to convey their message to normal people. Sign language detector using cloud provides us an innovative, user friendly way of interaction with the computer which is more familiar to human beings. Sign language detector has a wide area of application including human machine interaction, sign language, immersive game technology etc. By keeping in mind, the similarities of human hand shape with four fingers and one thumb, this paper aims to present a real time system for sign language detector on the basis of detection of some meaningful shape-based features like orientation, center of mass (centroid), status of fingers, thumb in terms of raised or folded fingers of hand and their respective location in image. The approach introduced in this paper is totally depending on the shape parameters of the hand gesture. It does not consider any other means of hand gesture recognition like skin color, texture because these image-based features are extremely variant to different light conditions and other influences. To implement this approach, we have utilized a simple web cam which is working on 20 fps with 7 mega pixel intensity. Keywords: Sign language detector, cloud
Effects of Dietary Caulerpa lentillifera Supplementation On Growth Performance and Survival Rate of Milk Fish, Chanos chanos (Forsskål, 1775)
Authors: Putra Dedi Fazriansyah , Abbas Muhammadar Abdullah , Solin Nadri , Othman Norhayati
Published: February 2022

Abstract: The study aimed to investigate the dietary supplementation effect of sea grape, Caulerpa lentillifera, on the growth performance and survival rate of milkfish, Chanos chanos (Forsskål, 1775). Two hundred fish weighing in the range of 0.20-0.25 g/ind were randomly distributed into 20 of 25 L tanks. The 0 (control), 10, 20, 30, and 40 g/kg of Caulerpa lentillifera powder was supplemented into four formulated feeds and then fed for 49 days. The result exposed that the administration of Caulerpa lentillifera powder in the diet provided a significant effect on the absolute weight gain, absolute length gain, specific growth rate, and feed efficiency (P<0,05), but there was no significant effect on survival rate (P>0,05). The optimum specific growth rate, absolute weight, absolute length and feed efficiency were found at treatment C (20 g/kg diet) with the values of 1.597±0.137 %/days, 4.47±0.08 g, 2.98±0.77 cm and 69.86±2.72 %, respectively. Regarding this result, the supplementation of sea grape (Caulerpa lentillifera) at a 20 g/kg diet is recommended to obtain the optimum growth of milkfish (Chanos chanos).Abstrak: Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh suplementasi pakan anggur laut Caulerpa lentillifera terhadap performa pertumbuhan dan kelangsungan hidup ikan bandeng, Chanos chanos (Forsskål, 1775). Dua ratus ikan sampel berbobot berkisar 0.20-0.25 g/ind didistribusikan secara acak ke dalam 20 tangki dengan volume masing-masing 25 L. Tepung anggur laut dengan dosis 0 (kontrol), 10, 20, 30, dan 40 g/kg ditambahkan ke dalam lima formulasi pakan dan diberi makan sebanyak 5% dari biomassa ikan dengan frekuensi 2 kali sehari selama 49 hari. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pemberian tepung C. lentillifera dalam ransum memberikan pengaruh nyata terhadap laju pertumbuhan spesifik, bobot mutlak, panjang mutlak dan efisiensi pakan (P<0.05), tetapi tidak berpengaruh nyata terhadap kelangsungan hidup (P>0.05). Laju pertumbuhan spesifik, bobot mutlak, panjang mutlak dan efisiensi pakan yang optimum terdapat pada perlakuan C (diet 20 g/kg) dengan nilai 1.597±0.137 %/hari, 4.47±0.08 g, 2.98± 0.77 cm dan 69.86±2.72%. Berkaitan dengan hasil tersebut, disarankan penambahan suplemen anggur laut (C. lentillifera) pada pakan 20 g/kg memberikan pertumbuhan yang optimum bagi ikan bandeng (Chanos chanos).
Perception Analysis of Green Construction Implementation on Construction Projects For Contractors in Banda Aceh City
Authors: Rauzana Anita , Saidan Nurul Hidayati Binti , Dharma Wira
Published: February 2022

Abstract: Along with the increasing use of natural resources, and the large number of construction waste dumping in the environment, environmental damage is increasingly visible. Many areas, especially Banda Aceh City, have experienced land and air degradation due to the pattern of life and the number of people. Currently, the construction project has a new concept, namely green construction, which is believed to be able to improve the environment caused by various developments by reducing the occurrence of environmental damage. The research objective was to analyze the perception of the application of green construction in construction projects in the city of Banda Aceh in determining the most dominant factors and the relationship between the factors of implementing green construction (X) on costs (Y). The research location was in the city of Banda Aceh. Secondary data, namely contractor company data. Primary data were 34 questionnaires. The results of data analysis using SPSS include a validity test, reliability test, frequency analysis, and Pearson product-moment correlation test. Based on the research results, it was found that the most dominant green construction factor was the application of energy conservation in construction (X5) of 95.1%, the application of energy conservation (X10) of 92.8%, and the use of construction materials (X8) of 92.5%. The largest correlation coefficient value was obtained in energy conservation (X10) of 0.882.Abstrak: Seiring meningkatnya pemakaian sumber daya alam dan banyaknya pembuangan limbah konstruksi di lingkungan, kerusakan lingkungan semakin terlihat. Telah banyak daerah-daerah khususnya Kota Banda Aceh mengalami degradasi lahan dan udara karena pola hidup dan jumlah manusia. Saat ini proyek konstruksi mempunyai sebuah konsep baru yaitu green construction yang dipercaya mampu memperbaiki lingkungan yang diakibatkan oleh berbagai pembangunan dengan mereduksi terjadinya kerusakan lingkungan. Tujuan penelitian untuk menganalisis persepsi penerapan green construction pada proyek konstruksi di Kota Banda Aceh dalam menentukan faktor-faktor yang paling dominan dan hubungan antara faktor-faktor penerapan green construction (X) terhadap biaya (Y). Lokasi penelitian di Kota Banda Aceh. Data sekunder yaitu data perusahaan kontraktor. Data primer sebanyak 34 kuesioner. Hasil analisis data menggunakan SPSS meliputi uji validitas, uji reliabilitas, analisis frekuensi, dan uji korelasi pearson product moment. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, diperoleh bahwa faktor green construction  yang paling dominan adalah penerapan konservasi energi pada pelaksanaan konstruksi (X5) sebesar 95,1%, penerapan konservasi energi (X10) sebesar 92,8%, dan penggunaan material konstruksi (X8) sebesar 92,5%. Nilai koefisien korelasi terbesar didapat pada konservasi energi (X10) sebesar 0,882.
Preparation and Characterization of Giant Tiger Shrimp (Penaeus monodon) Shell-Based Chitin as Biocoagulant For Water Purification
Authors: Nisah Khairun , Rahmi Rizna
Published: February 2022

Abstract: Giant tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon) shells are solid waste that can be utilized for water purification by converting them into chitin-based biocoagulant. The extraction and deproteination of giant tiger shrimp shells (Penaeus monodon) resulted in 83.34% w/w, followed by a demineralization yield of 91.61% w/w product. Chitin extract was used as a biocoagulant using the Jar test method on a fixed variable of 1 L well water and the independent variables of chitin weight (mg) and stirring speed (rpm). The results showed that 15 mg/L chitin reduced the turbidity value of well water from 3.08-1.03 NTU and decreased the Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) from 555-500 mg/L, at 200 rpm and pH 8.4. In conclusion, our investigation proves that chitin derived from giant tiger shrimp shells can be used as a biocoagulant for water purification.Abstrak: Kulit udang merupakan limbah padat yang dapat digunakan untuk penjerniahan air, dengan mengonversi limbah tersebut menjadi biokoagulan berbasis chitin. Limbah kulit udang Windu (Penaeus monodon) diekstrak menjadi chitin sebagai bahan baku Biokoagulan dalam penjernihan air sumur. Proses ekstraksi kulit udang windu (Penaeus monodon) diperoleh rendemen sebesar 83,34% melalui proses deproteinasi, diperoleh rendemen sebanyak 91,61% melalui proses demineralisasi. Hasil ekstrak chitin digunakankan sebagai biokoagulan dengan metode Jar test pada variabel tetap sebesar 1 L air sumur dan variabel berubah adalah massa chitin dan waktu pengadukan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa 15 mgram/L chitin mampu  menurunkan nilai kekeruhan air sumur dari 3,08-1,03 (NTU) dan menurunkan Total Dissolved Solids TDS  dari 555-500 (mgram/L), dengan kecepatan rotasi 200 rpm untuk nilai pH 8,4. Kesimpulan, penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa chitin yang diperoleh dari kulit udang windu dapat digunakan sebagai biokoagulan pada proses penjernihan air.
Primary Ureteric Stent Insertion Under Local Anaesthetic or Sedoanalgesia in Non-pregnancy
Authors: Gabriel Joseph , Quraishi Mohammed Kamil , Osman Banan , Shafik Lidia , Gabriel Abraham , Watson Graham , Mackie Simon
Published: February 2022

Background and Objective

To characterise the evidence surrounding local anaesthetic ureteric stent insertion (LAUSI) in contexts outside of pregnancy, a procedure typically performed under general anaesthetic (GAUSI), as it has never been the subject of a systematic review.

Materials and Methods

A systematic review of the Medline, EMBASE, PubMed, AMED, BNI, EMCARE, HMIC and PsycINFO databases was conducted to examine the published evidence in line with the Preferred Reporting Items of Systematic Review and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines surrounding the technique, patient demographics, setting, type of LA± sedoanalgesia used, cystoscopy and fluoroscopy usage, patient tolerability and pain, efficacy, complications and cost-effectiveness. Around 1,460 papers were systematically screened for inclusion.

Results

Seventeen studies were identified; one randomised controlled trials (RCT), four non-randomised comparative studies, and 12 case-series describing LAUSI. The 17 studies encompassed a total of some 1545 LAUSI. The clinical indications were similar to those for GAUSI. Successful LAUSI rate ranged from 71-98.9% in studies overall, with a pooled mean success rate of 89.3% overall (86.8% in LA only, 91.75% in LA ± sedoanalgesia). The tolerability of a LAUSI patient across 14 studies had a pooled mean rate of 91.8% (88.6% in LA only, 95% in LA ± sedoanalgesia). The procedure time was reported in seven studies, and it ranged from 5.35±0.87 to 65.0±27.5 minutes. The four comparative studies showed no difference in complication rates between LAUSI and GAUSI. All five studies reporting on cost-effectiveness showed LAUSI to be superior to GAUSI.

Conclusions

LAUSI is a safe, effective, and cost-effective alternative to GAUSI, which is under-utilised. Further research in the form of RCTs is required to formally establish its place and acceptability amongst urologists.
A phenomenological investigation of an English storyteller
Authors: Nuriyah Laely , Fathurrohman Maman , Hufad Achmad
Published: February 2022

This research aimed to figure out what a storyteller's phenomenology was like. The method was phenomenological, and data was collected through interviews, questionnaires, documents, and data triangulation. According to the findings of this study, a storyteller can improve English language skills in four different areas. According to the findings of this study, students can improve their English language skills by telling stories. Several recommendations were made based on the previous conclusions. First, the researcher suggests that all of this research be continued by other researchers, particularly in digital storytelling with stories containing local content to help students understand and learn about Indonesian culture while also improving their ability to speak English. Second, the researcher hopes that the findings of this study will inspire students to learn more about storytelling.
Usulan Model Pemeliharaan Distribusi Tenaga Listrik Menggunakan Metode TRDX Untuk Meningkatkan Keandalan Pada Pelanggan Industri
Authors: Musthopa Musthopa , Harsanto Budi , Yunani Akhmad
Published: February 2022

Reliability of electricity supply is urgently needed by modern industry because disruptions can directly impact production levels, costs and company profitability. The purpose of this study is to determine the characteristics of the existing maintenance of electric power distribution to industrial customers of PT PLN (Persero) UP3 Karawang and to propose appropriate maintenance methods to improve its performance. The method used is a case study with data collected through observation, interviews, and analysis of relevant documents. The results of the study indicate that the trend of feeder disturbances during 2017-2020 has not met expectations, the realization of the average interruption frequency index (SAIFI) system continues to increase in succession 3.12; 3.85; 5.47; and 6.92 times/customer, as well as the realization of the system average interruption duration index (SAIDI) with an increasing trend, respectively, 182.97; 314.31; 1015.55; and 612 minutes/customer. The three highest causes of disturbances were jointing (39%), followed by third party causes (36%) and cubicle damage (15%). The author proposes the TRDX method to improve the reliability of electric power supply to industrial customers.
Performance Management System Design of Inspection Bodies in Indonesia
Authors: Saefulah Saefulah
Published: February 2022

In order to increase economic growth through infrastructure development in Indonesia, the Government has agreed to increase strategic projects that are urgent to be implemented in the short term. The total project investment reaches IDR 4.183 trillion must be controlled and managed properly, this is where the Inspection Body is needed. The number of Inspection Bodies in Indonesia registered with the National Accreditation Committee (KAN) is 169 institutions. Of the total inspection bodies, 120 are active and have ISO 17020 certificates, while 44 other inspection bodies have their operational licenses revoked and 5 other inspection bodies have been suspended. Seeing this phenomenon, the question arises, why do 26% of the total inspection bodies in Indonesia have their operational permits revoked and the other 3% are frozen? Whereas the existence of this Inspection Agency is very strategic and needed in assisting the supervision of the implementation of national development projects, especially with the large potential benefits, namely 1% of the total value of national projects? This research uses the Balanced Scorecard with Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) weighting, the results of performance measurement at inspection service companies in 2020, the high score is financial performance 84%, second place is customer performance at 68%, learning, and growth with a score of 42% is in third place, and the last position is 38% of internal business processes. The total score of the inspection service company's performance is 231% (with an average of 57.76%) which means that the performance of the inspection body/company is currently not good. To test employee satisfaction, a questionnaire was conducted on 23 respondents from 4 inspection companies who were randomly selected from various positions ranging from managers to field inspectors, the results were still quite good, namely 3.99 (scale 1-5).
Avaliação da prevalência e localização de canais mandibulares bífidos. Um estudo em TCFC.
Authors: Da Cunha Rodrigo Montezano , Vizzotto Mariana Boessio , Xavier Paula Nery Ignácio , Tiecher Priscila F. Da Silveira , Arús Nádia Assein , Martins Luize Severo , Freire Danielle Bianca de Lima , Da Silveira Heraldo Luis Dias
Published: February 2022

Aim: To investigate the prevalence and location of bifid mandibular canals (CMB) using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and methods: Three trained and calibrated dental radiologists individually evaluated 1254 CT scans using the I-Cat Vision software (Imaging Sciences International®) and classified them into four distinct types (Retromolar, Dental, Forward and Bucolingual). Frequency data, collected from an Access form (Microsoft® Office), were analyzed using the Fischer and Friedman test. The level of statistical significance was set at 5%. Results: CMBs were found in 276 cases (22%), with no gender predilection (P = 0.186). There was a statistically significant difference between the types (P = 0.001). Discussion: The recognition of a CMB is of great relevance when associated with anesthetic and surgical procedures in the posterior region of the mandible. Although many studies have shown that CMB is not commonly seen, a failure to identify it can result in damage to the lower alveolar nerve (NAI) or difficulty in obtaining anesthetic block. Conclusion: The most frequent type of CMB in both genders was retromolar (P = 0.001), representing 18.5%, and visualized with rates of 47.1% in women and 52.9% in men. The frequency of CMBs analyzed using the CBCT was significant in the population evaluated and presented in different configurations. Thus, its investigation should not be neglected in the face of surgical procedures that involve the posterior region of the mandible.
THE LAKATOSIAN METHODOLOGY IN TEACHING THE SURFACE AREA OF A CONE AND A STUDENT’S CONCEPTUAL TRANSITION
Authors: Ogbonnaya Ugorji Iheanachor , Dimitriou-Hadjichristou Chrysoula
Published: February 2022

Although many scholars support the Lakatosian method of mathematics education for enhancing students learning, the use of the method to foster students’ transition from alternative to scientific conceptions in mathematics does not seem to have been a focus of any research. This study explored if the Lakatosian heuristic method of teaching could foster a students’ transition from alternative to scientific conceptions of the surface area of a cone. The study used a qualitative, exploratory single case study design to undertake an in-depth study of a student in the 11th grade at a secondary school in Cyprus. Data was collected through lesson observation and analyzed using deductive content analysis.  The study found that beginning from informal conjectures and proofs to more formal proofs the student was able to transit from alternative conception to the scientific conception of the surface area of a cone. The finding suggests that the Lakatosian method of mathematics can foster students’ conceptual understanding of some mathematical concepts.
CLUSTERS OF PREVALENT PATTERNS OF GEOMETRIC THINKING LEVELS AMONG MATHEMATICS STUDENTS
Authors: Ordiz Joshua Edson Gorme , Mecate Ghanine Rhea
Published: February 2022

Geometric thinking skills are the perceived abilities of an individual to think and reason in geometric contexts. These skills acquired by students in geometry remain poor and unsettling because of the misconceptions that hinder the students in learning the components of geometry. The study described the common unplaceable patterns in geometric thinking of 153 mathematics education students in a state university in Eastern Visayas, Philippines. Frequency Analysis was employed in the study to determine the number of occurrences of the patterns stressing the cause for students placed under level 0 or unplaceable. Van Hiele Achievement Test was used to gather the students’ performance in geometry at all levels, namely: visualization, analysis, informal deduction, deduction, and rigor. The findings attested that only 13.1% of the students managed the third level of the Van Hiele Levels while 43.1% of them were unplaceable. Common patterns were drawn and describe to understand the consequences in geometric thinking ability at level 0. These observable patterns were grouped into core-remedial, topical-corrective, and close-corrective groups. The clusters will enable educational institutions to address the individual gaps in geometry.
Signaling effect of fiscal reforms during political uncertainty: A game theory approach
Authors: El-Khishin Sarah , Kassab Dina
Published: February 2022

This paper examines how rules and institutions and monetary-fiscal coordination setup impact welfare outcomes during political instability. Our theoretical model extends the analysis of Alesina and Tabellini (1987), Alesina and Gatti (1995), and Ferre and Manzano (2014) to examine the signaling content of the fiscal authority’s decision to engage in a fiscal reform when the policymaker’s preferences are private information. In a two-stage signaling game featuring a central banker, a government, and private agents, we examine the fiscal authority’s decision to engage in a fiscal reform under a Nash game, a cooperative setup, and a model of Stackelberg leadership. Three main results: 1) rules and commitments contribute to decreasing time inconsistency; 2) the more control the fiscal authority has over monetary policy, the more undesirable welfare outcomes, especially during political instability; 3) central bank independence signals fiscal discipline and produces relatively more desired outcomes during times of political uncertainty. Nevertheless, even with low degrees of central bank independence, proper fiscal “rules” produce close outcomes of an independent central bank even under the dominance of a centralized political authority and can secure close welfare gains in terms of inflation and fiscal outcomes. We propose these theoretical findings for empirical examination in emerging countries with prevailing schemes of fiscal dominance and more dependence on discretionary interventions to secure growth rates and financing gaps. Such setups are argued to contribute to lowering welfare outcomes that could be reduced if proper fiscal rules were used as a substitute for low monetary independence.