bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selection analysis of heavy equipment on earthwork construction with linier programming (case study: kertajadi toll road)
Authors: Juliastuti  , Octovia F. , Haripriambodo Tjatur
Published: May 2023

Selection of heavy equipment in construction project is very important to achieve the project related with time and cost including in the Kertajati toll road. The purpose of this study was to determine the scenario of heavy equipment by using linear programming the simplex methods in earthwork activity. The results of this research obtained for excavation work is using scenario 2: (1) a combination of 2 units Komatsu PC200 and 3 units Sinotruk HOWO 4×8 with cost estimation is Rp. 171.177.730,87 and duration project are 4 days, (2) a combination of 13 units Sinotruk HOWO 4×8, 1-unit Shantui SD22, and 1 unit CAT CS 533 with a total cost of estimation is Rp. 3.561.409.026,24 and duration project are 26 days.
A GIS-based analysis of groundwater manganese and nitrate concentration for sustainable water supply
Authors: Ibrahim Muhamad Kemal , Wijayanti Yureana , Siek Michael , Adi Wisnu Ari
Published: May 2023

Groundwater is the main source of water supply in Sleman Regency. Although the water quantity is not an issue, the quality of groundwater should be understood to ensure the sustainability of the water supply. A previous study shows an increase in manganese (Mn) and nitrate (NO3) concentration in groundwater, yet the concentration distribution is unknown. Therefore, this study aims to develop a map of the spatial distribution pattern and to analyze the potential source of manganese and nitrate in groundwater in Sleman Regency in Yogyakarta Province. The method used is mapping groundwater quality using the ArcGIS application, analyzing groundwater pollution with water quality standards in the Indonesian Ministry of Health regulation number 492/Menkes/per/IV/2010 regarding drinking water quality requirements, and identifying the potential source of high pollution. Data processing uses the ArcGIS 10.8 application by performing the IDW (Inverse Distance Weighting) Interpolation technique. The result of this study has obtained a map of the distribution of groundwater quality for manganese and nitrate from 2017-2019. Manganese contamination may come from industrial and/or agricultural waste, while higher nitrate concentration might be a result of a septic tank leak and/or pesticide/fertilizer residue in paddy fields.
Sustainable technique to improve undrained shear strength of soil by using Bacillus Subtilis bacteria
Authors: Lijaya Williams , Gunawan Anthony
Published: May 2023

As population grows, more land areas are used up for accommodation, industrial needs as well as infrastructure. This results in diminishing availability of soil with good characteristics that can be used. This limitation forced future construction to be built on soils with poor characteristics. These types of soil require soil improvement in order to make them viable for construction. A relatively new and sustainable improvement method is bio-grouting techniques. The effectiveness of bio-grouting to improve organic sandy silt is studied in this paper. Cylindrical samples with 3.5 cm diameter and 7 cm height are improved by spraying bacteria solution at different solution-to-sample mass ratio and varying proliferation period. The solution-to-sample mass ratio varied from 0.2% - 1%, while the proliferation period is varied to three durations, i.e., 5 days, 13 days, and 21 days. The results showed that the method applied to soil samples could form calcite and obtain an increase in strength. For 5 days and 13 days proliferation period, the optimum solution-to-sample mass ratio is 0.6%, while for 21 days proliferation period, the optimum solution-to-sample ratio is 0,8%. However, for 21 days proliferation period, samples improved with 0.4% and 0.6% shows comparable degree of improvement as 0.8%.
Construction scheduling and monitoring control of dams based on BIM
Authors: Sentosa G A , Azzaqy A , Wardani S G , Setyandito O , Ambiarto A S , Pierre A J , Farell
Published: May 2023

Recent innovation of Building Information Modelling (BIM) and its encouraged application in digitalizing design and construction within the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry are essentially shifting the process by which structures are designed and constructed. For instance, larger infrastructures like dams have been associated with inherent complexity throughout its construction phases. Started with planning phase, continued by construction, and handed over into operation and maintenance phase, scheduling and monitoring progress require highly accurate data for input, process, and output to be coordinated between stakeholders. This study presents a systematic approach in tackling issues related to the integration of construction phases, specifically concerning construction monitoring efforts based on BIM. The analysis conducted was concentrated on integrating scheduling and monitoring into a BIM model of a dam, as this study also discusses the potential added value of BIM implementation on dam projects where the whole engineering process can be improved with digital tools, as well as explain and illustrate the modelling mechanism undertaken. The method exemplified in this study is expected to encourage the implementation of BIM in dam constructions and management to enhance effectiveness and encourage sustainability.
Managing Rainwater in Rukuramba Village for Water, Food and Energy Security
Authors: Laurentia Susilawati Cicilia , Sebayang Ika Sari Damayanthi , Tyas Indah Wahyuning
Published: May 2023

Rainwater is a very potential water resource. Managing rainwater can provide water availability for households and family farms, which in turn can improve food security. The available water can also be used as a micro hydro power plant (PLTMH). This encourages research to determine sustainable rainwater management policies. First, it is important to analyse the climatology of the area to determine the characteristics of rainfall, namely the potential and distribution of existing rainfall patterns, so that the available water potential can be determined. Second, an investigation regarding the suitability of the soil for crops in the area is based on the Agro Ecological Zoning method, which the crop length growth period was also considers to find the efficient planting date. This will ensure optimal crop yields with efficient water requirements. Third, further study of the applied rainwater management system is related to the potential for renewable energy. Finally, it can be concluded that by managing the potential for rainwater in Rukuramba village, the water needs for households, family farming, and energy are available. Fulfilling the needs of water for households, agriculture and energy has made Rukuramba village independent and prosperous due to a significant economic increase.
Non-thermal plasma approach for conversion of greenhouse’s gases to hydrogen and valuable chemical fuels: A short review
Authors: Kasih Tota Pirdo
Published: May 2023

An effective alternative energy source as a substitute for fossil-based fuels has become a major area of research for sustainable energy development. It is undeniable that there has been a decline in fossil fuel reserves as the primary energy which forces the development of new energy sources to meet requirements of both renewable and ecological aspects. In both of these aspects, hydrogen (H2) is one of the most promising renewable and environmentally friendly energy sources. Besides being able to be used to produce heat through combustion because it has a high calorific value (142 kJ/g), hydrogen can also be used to activate fuel cells to produce electrical energy without toxic gas emissions. Various applications of hydrogen gas led to the discovery of new sources and methods of producing hydrogen, including from the feedstock of greenhouse gases which has main component of CH4 and CO2. This review describes plasma dry reforming of greenhouse gas along with plasma decomposition of greenhouse components, namely CO2 and CH4 as an alternative process for hydrogen gas formation. Plasma-assisted decomposition of each compound, CO2 and CH4 from the view of plasma parameters and the effect of additional of catalyst are also discussed.
Architecture for Wildlife: The Possible Solution to Human-Wildlife Conflicts in Indonesia
Authors: Maulana Rheza
Published: May 2023

As the human population is increasing, architecture and engineering are at the forefront of human development. However, the increase in the human population posed an issue in which human settlements are developing in the natural environment. Such an issue caused forest areas to become fragmented, which made it difficult for wildlife to move from one forest to another. Eventually, it leads to wildlife entering human settlements and causes human-wildlife conflicts. A long-term strategy to lower the risk of human-wildlife conflict is needed, predominantly to help wildlife move in a fragmented environment. One possible way is by implementing “wildlife corridors,” as this has been proven to show success in foreign countries. By constructing variations of wildlife corridors, it is expected to lessen the environmental pressure on wildlife and reduce human-wildlife conflict. Wildlife corridors could become a potential solution for the future of Indonesia’s sustainable and environmentally friendly development.
Interior Design Planning for Chili Edu-Tourism, Kemutug, Central Java
Authors: Setiawan Christopher Hans , Simarmata Andriano , Ramadina Savitri Putri
Published: May 2023

Indonesia has been known by the world for its natural wealth, besides that Indonesia is also known as an agricultural country that take advantages of agriculture. In the Kemutug area, the area is a tourist spot that is well known to the public in the field of tourism and is also known as a final destination by the local community. Kemutug is famous for its natural beauty and natural tourist attractions, but besides being famous for its natural beauty, the area is also known for producing chilies which are quite good. To develop and improve the tourism sector in the Kemutug area as well as to educate tourists and the community around the types of chili peppers which of course may not be known by people around. This design is our effort in preserving plants that can be utilized by the community, this relates to the benefits that we can spread to the community to appreciate more plants and natural ecosystems in the Kemutug area. Also, this design project is the right place for tourism and education activities that are expected to become new tourism in the Kemutug area, in addition to observing studies on chili education based on exhibition layout, interactive tourism facility layout, several types of facilities. other general activities, and proper ergonomics studies to support these activities. This research was conducted with online surveys and interviews as well as conducting online research. The respondents needed are respondents who come from Kemutug and several people who have vacationed in the Kemutug area.
A review of hybrid ventilation on humid tropics climate
Authors: Soebiyan V , Koerniawan M D , Triyadi S
Published: May 2023

Green building has aspects which one is referred to the energy efficiency. Energy consumption is mainly due to mechanical ventilation (MV) therefore it is the key to building energy efficiency. The utilization of hybrid ventilation (HV) by incorporating natural ventilation (NV) into the ventilation system has the potential to save energy. Humid tropics has high temperature and humidity causing uncomfortable thermal condition. It poses a challenge to utilize ventilation systems in this climate effectively. This study examines the potential of HV in humid tropical climates related to research methods and HV strategies applied. The literature review was carried out on a number of papers Scopus based indexed which investigated HV extensively associated with humid tropical climates. Some references were collected from several sources to find case studies. Only several studies were conducted on HV in humid tropical climates. Mainly the research was carried out on thermal comfort, efficiency, and HV strategies with a numerical simulation that focuses on improving NV capabilities.
Mixed-Use Building with Threshold Space Approach in Central Jakarta
Authors: Tedja Michael , Hidayat Soraya Nabilla Putri , Mariana Yosica
Published: May 2023

This research aims to emphasize the relationship between the two functions of private and public space which can be achieved by applying the concept of a transitional space (threshold) with the integration of public open space in the middle of a mixed-use area. This phenomenon shows that overcoming mental health problems in urban communities with the integration of public open spaces with a perceptual research approach from the study of criteria and visual elements of public space. This research was conducted using quantitative methods with data revealed by explanative analysis. The research instrument used is in the form of a perceptual assessment survey regarding the transition space simulation that has been measured based on the threshold space and public space parameters. The needs for a mixed-use threshold space parameters that can become a new communal space for urban communities requires a design approach that supports the creation of sustainable architectural designs (eco-architecture planning) in terms of social aspects.
Urban Datarization for unalienating urban design and built environment in Society 5.0
Authors: Shanti L , Sihombing A , Fuad A H
Published: May 2023

Discourse on alienation has been widely discussed from a social and psychological point of view. The influence of the physical environment in the urban context has not been widely discussed, although the physical environment often affects the behaviour and psychological state of humans around it. This article is structured to describe the extent of alienation discourse in the urban built environment so that the discussion on this topic can be deepened in the context of society 5.0 where urban life’s quality can be improved with the use of data. This article was compiled using the literature review method by collecting discussions related to this topic that had been produced previously, then structuring and mapping it. The conclusion is that there are aspects of the urban built environment that contributes to urban alienation. These aspects can be defined in a more empirical data so that continues monitoring can be done to improve the quality or urban built environment that heads towards no alienation for its citizens, especially to its workers.
Industrial Symbiosis in Green Industrial Estate: Potential and Problems
Authors: Noegroho N , Wijaksono S
Published: May 2023

Industrial Symbiosis (IS) can give multiple benefits not only to the environment but also to the economic and social aspects. From an environmental point of view, this IS supports the implementation more ‘green’ environment in Industrial Estate. However, there are some problems with IS implementation. The objective of this paper is to investigate the potential and problems associated with IS implementation in Industrial Estate, especially in Indonesia. The method used in this research is a case study by analysing the existing area and interviewing stakeholders. The result of the analysis shows that differences in time development of each industry and the use of technology to link industries can affect the optimization of industrial symbiosis in the Industrial Estate.
The Use of Local Wind Simulation in Healthcare Facilities for Disease Control
Authors: Djimantoro M I , Tumiwa A E
Published: May 2023

Ventilation and air circulation are essential elements in healthcare facilities. Moreover, good ventilation helps to dilute odour pollutants and control the spread of the disease. This air circulation generally uses mechanical ventilation, whereas the use of natural ventilation is encouraged by the Indonesian Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization due to its affordability and sustainability considerations. Therefore, this paper aims to study the optimal building composition for health facilities using natural ventilation. There are two parts of the discussion in this manuscript. The first part is to study the building shape based on local wind characteristics. The second part is to determine the layout of the interior, adapting to the prevailing wind and its function. The research approach uses venturi theory, solar atrium and cross-ventilation, which is simulated through several computer simulations. The result showed that by orchestrating the building composition and layout in a specific way, natural ventilation could remove disease particles and provide better air circulation. These findings can be a new discussion in the planning and design of health facilities due to natural ventilation.
Eco-tourism through carrying capacity in Eris Village North Sulawesi: problems in process
Authors: Noegroho N , Ardiani YM , Agustina IA
Published: May 2023

A tourist destination must be developed in a balanced way, making the destination attractive to tourists while maintaining the sustainability of its environment. Destinations are developed not only to provide comfort for tourists by build various facilities but also to provide comfort for local people living in the place. One of the efforts is to develop eco-friendly tourist destinations including the facilities built in it. If development is carried out by destroying the environment, many parties will be harmed, as a result, tourists are not interested to visit. Therefore, create a sustainable tourist destination is important based on its carrying capacity. The advantages are knowing the threshold so that the destination does not over tourism and the environment itself is still maintained and remains comfortable for tourists and the local community. This research was conducted to develop sustainable tourist destinations, but focus only on the measurement process. The goal is to find out the problems that occur in the process so that it can be an anticipatory step in the process of developing a sustainable tourist destination. The method used in this research is a case study in Eris Village in North Sulawesi, where this village has natural and community conditions that have the potential to be developed as a tourist destination. Interviews were conducted with stakeholders to find out their development projections. The results obtained show that the determination of destination spots at the beginning of the process becomes an important issue in creating sustainable tourist destination especially its carrying capacity.
Thermal expansion flow analysis in designing a sustainability computer personal unit casing
Authors: Sahroni T R , Ahmad S A , Akmal S
Published: May 2023

The material of computer personal unit is commonly used metal based. The problem occurs when waste of electronic device to be recycled. This paper describes the thermal expansion flow in designing a sustainability computer personal unit (CPU) casing based on the material selection technique. In this study, the design concepts were generated to be processed for screening matrix with criteria selection of comfortable, user friendly, ergonomic, flexible, functionality and material. Design concept 4 was selected to be further analyzed. The material selection technique was used in this study using CES Edupack and provide the material of Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), Polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and Polyoxymethylene (Acetal, POM) for analysis based on criteria of recycle ability, price, hardness, density, and temperature maximum. The ABS material suits the design requirement toward sustainability computer personal unit. Based on the simulation result, the thermal expansion flow meets the design specification. In addition, the phenomena of heat dissipated from internal CPU shows significant information for design manufacturing to manage and place the electronic parts properly to reduce the risk of overheated and damaged.
Cookies Product Development with the Addition of Turmeric Extract
Authors: Renzo A , Tedjakusuma F , Surya R
Published: May 2023

Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) was used to develop novel formulated cookies, which have rich traditional culinary values. Turmeric extract (0.5 and 1%) were used as an added ingredient in cookies (with 0% as a control or those cookies without extracts). Results showed that antioxidant activity increase along addition of turmeric and lower temperature. This can be related to the baking process damaging heat-sensitive antioxidants. Proximate analysis showed that the addition of 1% turmeric extract increased the protein and ash content. Protein content in turmeric cookies even higher to SNI. Further, results of sensory evaluation revealed cookies with 1% turmeric extract and baking temperature of 180°C for 20 min was the most preferred formulation by the panellists. The panellists gave a higher preference for cookies that have a crunchy-hard texture and bright yellow colour.
Physicochemical Properties of Enzymatically Modified Starch: A Review
Authors: Hutabarat Donald John Calvien , Stevensen Jansen
Published: May 2023

Common enzymes used in starch modification include α-amylase, β-amylase, glucoamylase, isoamylase, and pullulanase. Botanical sources of starch are widely used in grains, beans, and tubers. The modification of starch is used to change the lack of native starch properties and make the desired physicochemical properties. Besides, starch modification can produce resistant starch (RS), which is essential for health concerns. The review aims to provide information on the enzymatic modification of starch and its effect on changes in the physicochemical properties of various botanical starch sources. Changes in physicochemical properties in modified starch include granular morphology, crystalline type, paste properties, swelling power, and solubility.
The stability of total phenolic and antioxidant activity during processing and cooking of sorghum-moringa substituted tapioca noodle
Authors: Sadek NF , Hamidah RS
Published: May 2023

Adding sorghum (Sorghum bicolorL. Moench) dan moringa (Moringa oleifera) leaf powder into tapioca noodle formulation was expected to improve health functional properties. This study evaluated the total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity in each step of noodle processing (including mixing, steaming, sheeting-slitting, and oven drying) and boiling. Noodle formulation was tapioca and sorghum flours (80:20) with a 5% moringa leaf powder addition. The TPC and antioxidant activity were analyzed using Folin Ciocalteu and DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) assays. The concentration of DPPH solution used in this study was 0.1 M. The TPC and antioxidant stability was significantly affected during processing and boiling. The TPC retention was highest in sample taken from sheeting-slitting step (0,27±0,001 mg GAE/g), while the antioxidant activity was found to be highest in the samples taken from oven drying (90.29±0.158 %). This result indicated that the heat involved expressed positive influences, except for the boiling effect in TPC. Heat treatment was proposed to release antioxidant compounds from food matrices, but the presence of water as a boiling medium may lead to phenolic leaching. Other bioactive compounds might also play a role in antioxidant activity due to a very weak correlation between TPC and antioxidant activity. High ability in DPPH reduction made the noodle could be proposed as a potential source of antioxidants.
The nutritional content, omega fatty acids, and amino acids profiles of sorghum-moringa substituted tapioca noodles
Authors: Sadek N F , Hamidah R S , Murwani I A
Published: May 2023

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) and moringa (Moringa oleifera) could be utilized to develop an innovative and functional food product, especially for stunting prevention, due to their nutritional content. In this study, those commodities were incorporated into tapioca noodle formulation, with the ratio of sorghum and tapioca flours was 20:80 and 5% moringa leaf flour. This formula resulted in 4.12% protein, 1.15% fat, 81.75% carbohydrate, and 5.88% dietary fiber and provided 353.77 kcal energy per 100g product. This made our product could be considered low-fat and a source of dietary fiber. Magnesium (42.89 mg/ 100 g), phosphorus (68.18 mg/100 g), zinc (0.58 mg/100 g), and iron (4.21 mg/100 g) were minerals presented in the product, while no vitamin A and D were detected. The complete essential amino acids were also found in this product, with 5.5; 26.4; and 32.7 mg/100 g of omega-3, -6, and -9 fatty acids, respectively. This result indicated the potency of health-promoting effects in stunted children. However, future research should emphasize increasing the protein content of sorghum-moringa substituted tapioca noodles.
The effect of potato starch and xanthan gum addition on cilantro sauce product development
Authors: Inneke Gracia , Kristopo Hari
Published: May 2023

This study aims to identify consumers’ most liked formulation and evaluate the effect of thickening agents of potato starch (PS) and xanthan gum (XG) on the overall acceptability of cilantro sauces, viscosity, and pH. There are five formulas to be tested: F1 (1% PS), F2 (0.75% PS: 0.25% XG), F3 (0.50% PS: 0.50% XG), F4 (1% XG), and F5 (control). The results show significant differences based on taste and texture in the acceptance test, but no significant differences were discovered based on color and aroma. While no significant changes were identified in pH, there was a substantial difference in the viscosity test for each formulation. Based on the results, the ideal formulation for cilantro sauce consists of 0.75% PS and 0.25% XG (F2).
Texture and mechanical properties of quenching and partitioning steel
Authors: Hu Pengsheng , Su Yu , Li Jun , Zuo Zhicheng
Published: May 2023

Advanced high-strength steels, such as quenching and partitioning (Q&P) steels, are of considerable interest in the automotive industry owing to their desirable mechanical properties. However, further research is required to elucidate the relationship between the microstructure and mechanical properties of Q&P steels. Therefore, this study investigated the microstructure, texture, and mechanical properties of Fe0.23C1.55Si1.92Mn0.04Al Q&P steel prepared under different conditions. After tensile deformation, the intensity of the H {001}〈110〉 orientation in the samples increased from 2.47 to 3.51. The sample partitioned at 375 °C for 60 s had the highest ultimate tensile strength of 1446 MPa. The sample partitioned at 450 °C for 180 s achieved the highest elongation at fracture of 17.7%. As the partitioning temperature (PT) increased, the width of the lath martensite increased, the volume fraction of primary martensite decreased, and the secondary martensite of the III sample increased. As the partitioning time (Pt) increased, the size and content of secondary martensite decreased.
A global assessment of national road network vulnerability
Authors: Koks Elco , Rozenberg Julie , Tariverdi Mersedeh , Dickens Ben , Fox Charles , van Ginkel Kees , Hallegatte Stephane
Published: May 2023

Every country relies on a well-functioning road system. However, we do not have a clear understanding yet of the vulnerability of each of these road networks to different forms of disruption. In this study, we aim to better understand how road networks are affected by different disruptive events, to identify hotspots of road network vulnerabilities, and to better target where and what type of future investments can be made to develop more resilient networks. To do so, we developed a fully open-source modelling framework to expose over 200 country road systems across the world to random, local, and targeted disruption schemes. For each country, we assessed the impact of such disruptions on intra-country travel activities and regional accessibility. The results highlight the vulnerability of road systems in mountainous and small-island countries owing to the limited availability of alternative routes. Additionally, we find that, on average, low-income countries experience a collapse of road-system services with much fewer disruptions, relative to high-income countries, due to the lack of redundancy in their systems. While the value of goods and services disrupted may be higher in wealthier countries, the results highlight that from an equity perspective, transport infrastructure investments are more desired in low-income country networks.
Canonical equivariant cohomology classes generating zeta values of totally real fields
Authors: Bannai Kenichi , Hagihara Kei , Yamada Kazuki , Yamamoto Shuji
Published: May 2023

It is known that the special values at nonpositive integers of a Dirichlet

L
L

-function may be expressed using the generalized Bernoulli numbers, which are defined by a generating function. The purpose of this article is to consider the generalization of this classical result to the case of Hecke

L
L

-functions of totally real fields. Hecke

L
L

-functions may be expressed canonically as a finite sum of zeta functions of Lerch type. By combining the non-canonical multivariable generating functions constructed by Shintani [J. Fac. Sci. Univ. Tokyo Sect. IA Math. 23 (1976), pp. 393–417], we newly construct a canonical class, which we call the Shintani generating class, in the equivariant cohomology of an algebraic torus associated to the totally real field. Our main result states that the specializations at torsion points of the derivatives of the Shintani generating class give values at nonpositive integers of the zeta functions of Lerch type. This result gives the insight that the correct framework in the higher dimensional case is to consider higher equivariant cohomology classes instead of functions.
Reconsidering frailty from a human and social sciences standpoint: towards an interdisciplinary approach to vulnerability
Authors: Sabot Philippe , Di Martino Carla , Moroni Christine , Pentini Anna Aluffi , Pabjan Barbara , Machado Maria Manuela Pereira , Katkonienė Agata , Czajkowski Paweł , Bardauskienė Raminta , Beuscart Jean-Baptiste ,   Coverage Collaborative Group, Encarnação Paula , Fernandes Anabela Silva , Fabio Olivieri , Fernandez Diego Pinal , Pivoriene Jolanta , Posłuszny Łukasz , Petronilho Fernando Alberto Soares , Sourial Nadia , Sousa Sonia S , Teodorescu Adriana , Vedel Isabelle , Zemaitaityte Irena , Zuber Marcelina
Published: May 2023

Although frailty is an important, well-characterized concept in the provision of medical care to older adults, it has not been linked to the concept of vulnerability developed in the humanities and social sciences. Here, we distinguish between the two main dimensions of vulnerability: a fundamental, anthropological dimension in which people are exposed to a risk of injury, and a relational dimension in which people depend on each other and on their environment. The relational notion of vulnerability might provide healthcare professionals with a better understanding of frailty (and its potential interaction with precarity). Precarity situates people in their relationship with a social environment that might threaten their living conditions. Frailty corresponds to individual-level changes in adaptation to a living environment and the loss of ability to evolve or react in that environment. Therefore, we suggest that by considering the geriatric notion of frailty as a particular form of relational vulnerability, healthcare professionals could better understand the specific needs of frail, older people—and thus provide more appropriate care.
Changes in Personal Protective Equipment Usage Among Healthcare Personnel From the Beginning of Pandemic to Intra-COVID-19 Pandemic in Thailand
Authors: Mahasing Chayanit , Kittikraisak Wanitchaya , Mott Joshua A , Yoocharoen Pornsak , Piyaraj Phunlerd , Tanathitikorn Chuleekorn , Punjasamanvong Somsak , Wongrapee Thanapat , Suttha Patama , Rattanathumsakul Thanit , Davis William W , Westercamp Matthew , Chottanapund Suthat
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Personal protective equipment (PPE) use is associated with reduced risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection among healthcare personnel (HCP). There are limited data on the impact of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on the PPE use of HCP. We describe the changes in PPE use from just before the widespread of community outbreaks (‘pre-pandemic’) to intra-pandemic time points, and examine factors associated with not changing in PPE use behavior among HCP in four Thai hospitals.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort evaluation using two-time points: (i) February-March 2020 (pre-pandemic period); and (ii) January–March 2021 (intra-pandemic period). Self-reported frequency of appropriate PPE use was measured by a Likert scale. We used multivariable logistic regression to identify factors associated with no increase in self-reported PPE use.

Results

Of 343 HCP, the proportion of participants reporting ‘always’ using PPE rose from 66% during the pre-pandemic period to 80% during the pandemic. Factors associated with HCP who did not increase in PPE use included having high baseline reported PPE, being a non-registered HCP (e.g. nurse assistants, dental assistants, porters), being male, and having a low perceived risk of becoming infected with any respiratory virus while working in the hospital.

Conclusion

PPE education, training, and risk communication content should target all cadres of HCP, regardless of registered/non-registered status, with a focus on behavior change for improved prevention and control of SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory viruses in healthcare settings.
KGANSynergy: knowledge graph attention network for drug synergy prediction
Authors: Zhang Ge , Gao Zhijie , Yan Chaokun , Wang Jianlin , Liang Wenjuan , Luo Junwei , Luo Huimin
Published: May 2023

Combination therapy is widely used to treat complex diseases, particularly in patients who respond poorly to monotherapy. For example, compared with the use of a single drug, drug combinations can reduce drug resistance and improve the efficacy of cancer treatment. Thus, it is vital for researchers and society to help develop effective combination therapies through clinical trials. However, high-throughput synergistic drug combination screening remains challenging and expensive in the large combinational space, where an array of compounds are used. To solve this problem, various computational approaches have been proposed to effectively identify drug combinations by utilizing drug-related biomedical information. In this study, considering the implications of various types of neighbor information of drug entities, we propose a novel end-to-end Knowledge Graph Attention Network to predict drug synergy (KGANSynergy), which utilizes neighbor information of known drugs/cell lines effectively. KGANSynergy uses knowledge graph (KG) hierarchical propagation to find multi-source neighbor nodes for drugs and cell lines. The knowledge graph attention network is designed to distinguish the importance of neighbors in a KG through a multi-attention mechanism and then aggregate the entity’s neighbor node information to enrich the entity. Finally, the learned drug and cell line embeddings can be utilized to predict the synergy of drug combinations. Experiments demonstrated that our method outperformed several other competing methods, indicating that our method is effective in identifying drug combinations.
BUSZ: compressed BUS files
Authors: Einarsson Pétur Helgi , Melsted Páll
Published: May 2023

We describe a compression scheme for BUS files and an implementation of the algorithm in the BUStools software. Our compression algorithm yields smaller file sizes than gzip, at significantly faster compression and decompression speeds. We evaluated our algorithm on 533 BUS files from scRNA-seq experiments with a total size of 1TB. Our compression is 2.2× faster than the fastest gzip option 35% slower than the fastest zstd option and results in 1.5× smaller files than both methods. This amounts to an 8.3× reduction in the file size, resulting in a compressed size of 122GB for the dataset.

Availability and implementation

A complete description of the format is available at https://github.com/BUStools/BUSZ-format and an implementation at https://github.com/BUStools/bustools. The code to reproduce the results of this article is available at https://github.com/pmelsted/BUSZ_paper.
A single-stage bilayered skin reconstruction using Glyaderm® as an acellular dermal regeneration template results in improved scar quality: an intra-individual randomized controlled trial
Authors: De Decker Ignace , Hoeksema Henk , Verbelen Jozef , De Coninck Petra , Speeckaert Marijn , De Schepper Sofie , Blondeel Phillip , Pirayesh Ali , Monstrey Stan , Claes Karel E Y
Published: May 2023

Background

Absence of almost the entire reticular dermal layer is inherent to the use of autologous split-thickness skin grafting (STSG) to close full-thickness wounds, often resulting in hypertrophic scars and contractures. Many dermal substitutes have been developed, but unfortunately most have varying results in terms of cosmetic and/or functional improvement as well as patient satisfaction, in addition to high costs. Bilayered skin reconstruction using the human-derived glycerolized acellular dermis (Glyaderm®) has been reported to result in significantly improved scar quality using a two-step procedure. Unlike the necessary two-step procedure for most commercially available dermal substitutes, in this study we aimed to investigate the use of Glyaderm® in a more cost-effective single-stage engrafting. This is a method which, if autografts are available, is preferred by the majority of surgeons given the reduction in costs, hospitalization time and infection rate.

Methods

A prospective, randomized, controlled, intra-individual, single-blinded study was performed, investigating the simultaneous application of Glyaderm® and STSG vs. STSG alone in full-thickness burns or comparable deep skin defects. During the acute phase, bacterial load, graft take and time to wound closure were assessed and were the primary outcomes. Aesthetic and functional results (secondary outcomes) were evaluated at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months follow-up using subjective and objective scar measurement tools. Biopsies for histological analysis were taken at 3 and 12 months.

Results

A total of 66 patients representing 82 wound comparisons were included. Graft take (>95%), pain management and healing time were comparable in both groups. At 1 year follow-up, the overall Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale assessed by the patient was significantly in favour of sites where Glyaderm® was used. Not infrequently, patients attributed this difference to improved skin sensation. Histological analysis showed the presence of a well-formed neodermis, with donor elastin present for up to 12 months.

Conclusions

A single-stage bilayered reconstruction with Glyaderm® and STSG results in optimal graft take without loss of Glyaderm® nor the overlaying autografts due to infection. The presence of elastin in the neodermis was demonstrated during long-term follow-up in all but one patient, which is a crucial factor contributing to the significantly improved overall scar quality as evaluated by the blinded patients.

Trial registration

The trial was registered on clinicaltrials.gov and received the following registration code: NCT01033604.
Towards ‘bogus employment?’ The contradictory outcomes of ride-hailing regulation in Berlin, Lisbon and Paris
Authors: Niebler Valentin , Pirina Giorgio , Secchi Michelangelo , Tomassoni Franco
Published: May 2023

The issue of employment classification has been central in the politics around the platform economy. Crucial has been the phenomenon of ‘bogus self-employment’, whereby workers in de facto dependent employment relationships conduct services as independent contractors. Legislators around the world have aimed to tackle this issue by obliging platforms to classify their workers as employees. Based on empirical research in the ride-hailing industry of Berlin, Paris and Lisbon, where such classification exists already, we highlight its contradictory outcomes. We argue that platform companies have managed to introduce forms of ‘bogus employment’ whereby even formally employed workers lack basic worker rights.
Platforms, blockchains and the challenges of decentralization
Authors: Zook Matthew
Published: May 2023

This commentary explores the feasibility of blockchain technologies (and cryptocurrencies) in contesting the power of centralized, corporate platforms. While proponents of blockchain and cryptocurrencies regularly proclaim their power to decentralize and counter corporate power, I am much more constrained in my assessment and note the significant challenges facing open blockchain approaches in competing with platforms. From this, I highlight three key areas in which blockchains may complicate platform operations, albeit in indeterminate ways. These include (i) closed, state-based blockchain systems focused on making back-office processes more efficient, (ii) the use of cryptocurrencies for platform-based transactions and (iii) providing digital objects with an element of “uniqueness” that makes them tradable in new ways. In the end, blockchain and cryptocurrencies are technologies like any others, providing affordances for some kinds of action over others but ultimately their embeddedness in practice and space shapes how they impact the organization and geography of economies, societies and regions.
The security mindset: characteristics, development, and consequences
Authors: Schoenmakers Koen , Greene Daniel , Stutterheim Sarah , Lin Herbert , Palmer Megan J
Published: May 2023

The world is facing a cybersecurity skills gap as cybercrime and cyberwarfare grow in importance. One often-discussed quality that is potentially relevant to cybersecurity recruitment and education is the so-called “security mindset”: a way of thinking characteristic of some security professionals that they believe to be especially advantageous in their work. Although some employers express a desire to hire people with a security mindset, and initiatives to cultivate the security mindset are being implemented, it has no common definition and little is known about its characteristics, its development, and its consequences. We interviewed 21 cybersecurity professionals who strongly identified as having a security mindset based on a minimal description drawn from existing literature. Thematic analysis of the interview data suggests that the security mindset can be conceptualized as consisting of three interconnected aspects—“monitoring” for potential security anomalies, “investigating” anomalies more deeply to identify security flaws, and “evaluating” the relevance of those flaws in a larger context. These three aspects develop in different ways and have different personal and professional consequences. Participants mostly spoke positively of the security mindset, but they also mentioned several disadvantages not mentioned by existing security-mindset literature, such as mental health pressures, workplace tensions, and negative effects on personal relationships. We discuss the implications of these findings for future study of the security mindset and suggest practical implications for cybersecurity management, education, and recruitment.
Influence of ambient water coloration on habitat and conspecific choice in the female Lake Malawi cichlid, Metriaclima zebra
Authors: Choi Noori , Mathevon Nicolas , Hebets Eileen A , Beauchaud Marilyn
Published: May 2023

Female cichlid fish living in African great lakes are known to have sensory systems that are adapted to ambient light environments. These sensory system adaptations are hypothesized to have influenced the evolution of the diverse male nuptial coloration. In rock-dwelling Lake Malawi mbuna cichlids, however, the extent to which ambient light environments influence female sensory systems and potentially associated male nuptial coloration remains unknown. Yet, the ubiquitous blue flank coloration and UV reflection of male mbuna cichlids suggest the potential impacts of the blue-shifted ambient light environment on these cichlid’s visual perception and male nuptial coloration in the shallow water depth in Lake Malawi. In the present study, we explored whether and how the sensory bias of females influences intersexual communication in the mbuna cichlid, Metriaclima zebra. A series of choice experiments in various light environments showed that M. zebra females 1) have a preference for the blue-shifted light environment, 2) prefer to interact with males in blue-shifted light environments, 3) do not show a preference between dominant and subordinate males in full-spectrum, long-wavelength filtered, and short-wavelength filtered light environments, and 4) show a “reversed” preference for subordinate males in the UV-filtered light environment. These results suggest that the visual perception of M. zebra females may be biased to the ambient light spectra in their natural habitat by local adaptation and that this sensory bias may influence the evolution of blue and UV reflective patterns in male nuptial coloration.
Non-pharmacological interventions for improving sleep outcomes among patients with a diagnosis of coronary artery disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Park Gaeun , Lee Haejung , Lee Dae-Eun
Published: May 2023

Aims

To determine the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions on sleep outcomes among patients with coronary artery disease and recognize pertinent characteristics that potentially affect the effectiveness of such interventions.

Methods and results

Relevant studies conducted before 27 April 2022 were identified through four core electronic databases using terms related to coronary artery disease, sleep outcomes, and randomized controlled trials. Two authors independently conducted study selection, data extraction, and risk-of-bias assessment. Meta-analysis, sub-group analysis, publication bias analysis, and sensitivity analysis were conducted using R version 4.2.2. Of the 4755 retrieved articles, 42 studies were selected for systematic review and 30 studies were included in the meta-analysis. The findings of this study revealed that non-pharmacological interventions significantly improved self-reported sleep quality (standardized mean difference = −0.85, 95% confidence interval −1.08, −0.63), but had no effects on objectively measured sleep efficiency and duration. Regarding the types of interventions involved, environmental control was the most effective in improving self-reported sleep quality, followed by relaxation, self-care behaviour management, and relaxation and cognitive/psychological complex interventions. Through subgroup analysis, we did not find any covariates that were significantly related to self-reported sleep quality.

Conclusion

Non-pharmacological interventions have been shown to play beneficial roles in improving self-reported sleep quality among patients with coronary artery disease. Additional studies are required to elucidate the effect of non-pharmacological interventions on objectively measured sleep outcomes and to characterize their optimal frequencies and durations.

Registration

PROSPERO CRD42022366851