bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GaitSG: Gait Recognition with SMPLs in Graph Structure
Authors: Yan Jiayi , Wang Shaohui , Lin Jing , Li Peihao , Zhang Ruxin , Wang Haoqian
Published: October 2023

Gait recognition aims to identify a person based on his unique walking pattern. Compared with silhouettes and skeletons, skinned multi-person linear (SMPL) models can simultaneously provide human pose and shape information and are robust to viewpoint and clothing variances. However, previous approaches have only considered SMPL parameters as a whole and are yet to explore their potential for gait recognition thoroughly. To address this problem, we concentrate on SMPL representations and propose a novel SMPL-based method named GaitSG for gait recognition, which takes SMPL parameters in the graph structure as input. Specifically, we represent the SMPL model as graph nodes and employ graph convolution techniques to effectively model the human model topology and generate discriminative gait features. Further, we utilize prior knowledge of the human body and elaborately design a novel part graph pooling block, PGPB, to encode viewpoint information explicitly. The PGPB also alleviates the physical distance-unaware limitation of the graph structure. Comprehensive experiments on public gait recognition datasets, Gait3D and CASIA-B, demonstrate that GaitSG can achieve better performance and faster convergence than existing model-based approaches. Specifically, compared with the baseline SMPLGait (3D only), our model achieves approximately twice the Rank-1 accuracy and requires three times fewer training iterations on Gait3D.
Accurate Global Point Cloud Registration Using GPU-Based Parallel Angular Radon Spectrum
Authors: Fontana Ernesto , Lodi Rizzini Dario
Published: October 2023

Accurate robot localization and mapping can be improved through the adoption of globally optimal registration methods, like the Angular Radon Spectrum (ARS). In this paper, we present Cud-ARS, an efficient variant of the ARS algorithm for 2D registration designed for parallel execution of the most computationally expensive steps on Nvidia™ Graphics Processing Units (GPUs). Cud-ARS is able to compute the ARS in parallel blocks, with each associated to a subset of input points. We also propose a global branch-and-bound method for translation estimation. This novel parallel algorithm has been tested on multiple datasets. The proposed method is able to speed up the execution time by two orders of magnitude while obtaining more accurate results in rotation estimation than state-of-the-art correspondence-based algorithms. Our experiments also assess the potential of this novel approach in mapping applications, showing the contribution of GPU programming to efficient solutions of robotic tasks.
Adaptive VMD–K-SVD-Based Rolling Bearing Fault Signal Enhancement Study
Authors: Mao Meijiao , Zeng Kaixin , Tan Zhifei , Zeng Zhi , Hu Zihua , Chen Xiaogao , Qin Changjiang
Published: October 2023

To address the challenges associated with nonlinearity, non-stationarity, susceptibility to redundant noise interference, and the difficulty in extracting fault feature signals from rolling bearing signals, this study introduces a novel combined approach. The proposed method utilizes the variational mode decomposition (VMD) and K-singular value decomposition (K-SVD) algorithms to effectively denoise and enhance the collected rolling bearing signals. Initially, the VMD method is employed to separate the overall noise into intrinsic mode functions (IMFs), reducing the noise content within each IMF. To optimize the mode component, K, and the penalty factor, α, in VMD, an improved arithmetic optimization algorithm (IAOA) is employed. This ensures the selection of optimal parameters and the decomposition of the signal into a set of IMFs, forming the original dictionary. Subsequently, the signals are decomposed into multiple IMFs using VMD, and an original dictionary is constructed based on these IMFs. K-SVD is then applied to the original dictionary to further reduce the noise in each IMF, resulting in a denoised and enhanced signal. To validate the efficacy of the proposed method, rolling bearing signals collected from Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) and thrust bearing test rigs were utilized. The experimental results demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed approach in denoising and enhancing the rolling bearing signals.
Optical Multimode Fiber-Based Pipe Leakage Sensor Using Speckle Pattern Analysis
Authors: Philosof Jonathan , Beiderman Yevgeny , Agdarov Sergey , Beiderman Yafim , Zalevsky Zeev
Published: October 2023

Water is an invaluable resource quickly becoming scarce in many parts of the world. Therefore, the importance of efficiency in water supply and distribution has greatly increased. Some of the main tools for limiting losses in supply and distribution networks are leakage sensors that enable real-time monitoring. With fiber optics recently becoming a commodity, along with the sound advances in computing power and its miniaturization, multipurpose sensors relying on these technologies have gradually become common. In this study, we explore the development and testing of a multimode optic-fiber-based pipe monitoring and leakage detector based on statistical and machine learning analyses of speckle patterns captured from the fiber’s outlet by a defocused camera. The sensor was placed inside or over a PVC pipe with covered and exposed core configurations, while 2 to 8 mm diameter pipe leaks were simulated under varied water flow and pressure. We found an overall leak size determination accuracy of 75.8% for a 400 µm covered fiber and of 68.3% for a 400 µm exposed fiber and demonstrated that our sensor detected pipe bursts, outside interventions, and shocks. This result was consistent for the sensors fixed inside and outside the pipe with both covered and exposed fibers.
Full-Perception Robotic Surgery Environment with Anti-Occlusion Global–Local Joint Positioning
Authors: Wang Hongpeng , Liu Tianzuo , Chen Jianren , Fan Chongshan , Qin Yanding , Han Jianda
Published: October 2023

The robotic surgery environment represents a typical scenario of human–robot cooperation. In such a scenario, individuals, robots, and medical devices move relative to each other, leading to unforeseen mutual occlusion. Traditional methods use binocular OTS to focus on the local surgical site, without considering the integrity of the scene, and the work space is also restricted. To address this challenge, we propose the concept of a fully perception robotic surgery environment and build a global–local joint positioning framework. Furthermore, based on data characteristics, an improved Kalman filter method is proposed to improve positioning accuracy. Finally, drawing from the view margin model, we design a method to evaluate positioning accuracy in a dynamic occlusion environment. The experimental results demonstrate that our method yields better positioning results than classical filtering methods.
Sowing the Seeds of Commons in Education: Three Case Studies from the Horizon Project 2020 SMOOTH
Authors: Pechtelidis Yannis , Kozaris Ioannis , Pantazidis Stelios , Botonaki Angeliki
Published: October 2023

This paper explores how educational commons, in which education and learning are shaped by the members of the educational community in terms of equality, freedom, and creative participation, contribute to addressing inequalities, empowering democracy, and enhancing inclusion. The discussion focuses on the crucial debate around public formal education and the potential for radical democratisation it offers through three case studies carried out in formal and non-formal educational settings in Thessaloniki, Greece. The research was conducted in three different types of education centres: a public kindergarten, a self-organised autonomous libertarian educational community, and an after-school programme of a primary school where Workshops for Nurturing and Developing Environmental Resilience (WONDER) were implemented by the environmental organisation Mamagea. Through patterns of commoning practices, like peer governance, co-creation of knowledge, and peer learning, the case studies aimed to establish the prerequisites for the co-creation of a community that offers pupils and students, teachers, and educators the chance for self-formation and equal participation. The article makes the case that educational hierarchies and governance models can be reconfigured in order to incorporate the democratic values of solidarity, equality, self-organisation, and self-formation even in structures that are still tailored to formal schooling. The article argues that educational commons can make a decisive contribution to tackling inequalities, and the commons logic can grow effectively in school education under specific conditions. The pedagogical practice is shifted in educational commons in ways that balance out contemporary enclosures based on several inequalities.
Representation of Landscape and Ecological Vision in Miyazaki’s Filmography
Authors: Bartolomei Cristiana , Ippolito Alfonso , Mezzino Davide
Published: October 2023

This study analyzes the central role of landscape in Hayao Miyazaki’s films. The depiction of landscape in Miyazaki’s films goes beyond mere visual backdrops in order to convey deep symbolic meanings and to foster an empathic connection between the viewer and the world depicted. The renowned Japanese animator, filmmaker, screenwriter, draftsman, manga artist and film director has strongly promoted environmental awareness in his productions by paying close attention to the depiction and visualization of landscape dynamics, using details, and real and invented elements to create an engaging visual experience. The landscapes also take on emotional, metaphorical dimensions, reflecting the emotions and inner thoughts of the characters. Through an in-depth critical analysis of eleven selected films, the proposed research identifies the character-defining elements adopted by Miyazaki to stimulate reflection on a sustainable combination between urban development and the preservation of natural elements, as well as increasing focus on the beauty of the landscape, thereby highlighting the importance of its preservation. The relevance of this research is to understand Miyazaki’s approach to creating representations of natural elements and how he has managed to combine them with the plots of his various films, indirectly stimulating environmental awareness and fascination with nature in its different forms.
A Study on the Movement and Deformation Law of Overlying Strata and the Self-Healing Characteristics of Ground Fissures in Non-Pillar Mining in the Aeolian Sand Area
Authors: Fu Yaokun , Wu Yongzheng , Yin Xiwen
Published: October 2023

The mining area in western China is ecologically sensitive. Coal mining can cause the formation of ground fissures, leading to geological disasters and further accelerating the process of land desertification. In this study, the working face of non-coal-pillar mining in the aeolian sand area was considered as the research object. The movement and deformation law of overlying strata were investigated through field measurements, theoretical analysis, and numerical simulation, and the mechanism governing the self-healing characteristics of ground fissures was revealed. The results demonstrated that the surface angular parameters were lower. This implies that the surface movement and the degree of deformation in non-coal-pillar mining in the aeolian sand area are significant, with a large mining influence range and rapid surface subsidence speed. After the mining of the working face, the resulting failure form of the overlying rock was asymmetric. Boundary ground fissures are typically located within the boundary of the working face, and no outward expansion is primarily observed. Dynamic ground fissures have “waviness” morphological characteristics and asymmetric “M” type development characteristics. A location model as well as a development cycle model of dynamic ground fissures were established for the first time, which can be used to predict the location and period of ground fissures. Based on the motion characteristics of hinged rock block structures, the mechanical mechanism of the self-healing phenomenon of dynamic ground fissures was revealed. A partition monitoring mode of working faces without coal pillar mining was proposed for the first time, which can reduce a lot of manpower and material resources. The coal mining subsidence basin is divided into a natural restoration area and an artificial restoration area. The combination of natural restoration and artificial guidance was used to control the ground fissures and reduce the associated costs. The research conclusions can provide a basis for mining damage evaluation and ecological environment protection in the aeolian sand area.
Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning-Driven Small Molecule Repurposing via Off-Target Prediction and Transcriptomics
Authors: Rao Mohan , McDuffie Eric , Sachs Clifford
Published: October 2023

The process of discovering small molecule drugs involves screening numerous compounds and optimizing the most promising ones, both in vitro and in vivo. However, approximately 90% of these optimized candidates fail during trials due to unexpected toxicity or insufficient efficacy. Current concepts with respect to drug–protein interactions suggest that each small molecule interacts with an average of 6–11 targets. This implies that approved drugs and even discontinued compounds could be repurposed by leveraging their interactions with unintended targets. Therefore, we developed a computational repurposing framework for small molecules, which combines artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML)-based and chemical similarity-based target prediction methods with cross-species transcriptomics information. This repurposing methodology incorporates eight distinct target prediction methods, including three machine learning methods. By using multiple orthogonal methods for a “dataset” composed of 2766 FDA-approved drugs targeting multiple therapeutic target classes, we identified 27,371 off-target interactions involving 2013 protein targets (i.e., an average of around 10 interactions per drug). Relative to the drugs in the dataset, we identified 150,620 structurally similar compounds. The highest number of predicted interactions were for drugs targeting G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), enzymes, and kinases with 10,648, 4081, and 3678 interactions, respectively. Notably, 17,283 (63%) of the off-target interactions have been confirmed in vitro. Approximately 4000 interactions had an IC50 of <100 nM for 1105 FDA-approved drugs and 1661 interactions had an IC50 of <10 nM for 696 FDA-approved drugs. Together, the confirmation of numerous predicted interactions and the exploration of tissue-specific expression patterns in human and animal tissues offer insights into potential drug repurposing for new therapeutic applications.
New Insights into Nanoplastics Ecotoxicology: Effects of Long-Term Polystyrene Nanoparticles Exposure on Folsomia candida
Authors: Barreto Angela , Santos Joana , Andrade Gonçalo , Santos Matilde , Maria Vera L.
Published: October 2023

Despite the growing concern over nanoplastics’ (NPls) environmental impacts, their long-term effects on terrestrial organisms remain poorly understood. The main aim of this study was to assess how NPls exposure impacts both the parental (F1) and subsequent generations (F2 and F3) of the soil-dwelling species Folsomia candida. After a standard exposure (28 days), we conducted a multigenerational study along three generations (84 days), applying polystyrene nanoparticles (PS NPs; diameter of 44 nm) as representatives of NPls. Endpoints from biochemical to individual levels were assessed. The standard test: PS NPs (0.015 to 900 mg/kg) had no effect in F. candida survival or reproduction. The multigenerational test: PS NPs (1.5 and 300 mg/kg) induced no effects on F. candida survival and reproduction along the three generations (F1 to F3). PS NPs induced no effects in catalase, glutathione reductase, glutathione S-transferases, and acetylcholinesterase activities for the juveniles of the F1 to F3. Oxidative damage through lipid peroxidation was detected in the offspring of F1 but not in the juveniles of F2 and F3. Our findings underscore the importance of evaluating multigenerational effects to gain comprehensive insights into the contaminants long-term impact, particularly when organisms are continuously exposed, as is the case with NPls.
Bibliometric Analysis of Research Trends in Water Management Aimed at Increasing the Sustainability of the Socio-Economic Development of a Region
Authors: Mingaleva Zhanna , Chernova Olga , Mitrofanova Inna V.
Published: October 2023

The growing negative anthropogenic impact on the environment causes scientific interest in the problems of water management. The increasing number of publications in this scientific field requires their intellectual systematization. The purpose of this study is to conduct a bibliometric review of scientific publications related to water management issues in the context of solving the problems of increasing the sustainability of the socio-economic development of a region for better understanding of current research trends. To achieve this goal, bibliometric analysis using the VOSviewer software product (Manual for VOSviewer version 1.6.17) was used. The international database Scopus was taken as the source of information. This study examined 10,208 articles on water management issues from 2012 to 2022. The basic criterion for including a publication in the selection was that the topic of the work belongs to the subject areas of economics, econometrics and finance and business, management and accounting. As a result of the analysis, it was determined that the problems of water resources management have not lost their popularity in the global research community and the research methodology is evolving towards the concept of “water–energy–food”. The centers of knowledge forming the vector of scientific research are the USA and the Netherlands; however, in recent years, the research of Chinese scientists has become increasingly important. It is concluded that the potential for the development of research in the field of water resources management in the context of solving the problems of the sustainable development of regions is associated with the search for opportunities for revealing the synergy of intersectoral interactions while taking into account their sectoral and regional specifics.
Incipient Motion of Bed Material in a Channel with Varying Width and Vegetated Channel Walls
Authors: Hadian Sanaz , Afzalimehr Hossein , Sui Jueyi
Published: October 2023

This experimental study aims to investigate the characteristics of turbulent flow in channels with vegetated banks and varying channel width under the condition of the incipient motion of bed material. The natural reeds were used as emergent vegetation on the sidewalls of a laboratory flume. In total, nine experimental runs have been conducted with different experimental setups by using three different particle sizes of bed material and three different channel bed slopes. An Acoustic Doppler velocimetry (ADV) was used to acquire velocity components in three directions. The results of this study indicate that the streamwise velocities have the maximum and minimum values at the cross sections with the narrowest and widest width, respectively. When the aspect ratio is less than 5, the maximum velocity occurs below the water surface, due to presence of the secondary currents. It is found that, at all measurement points, the distribution of the Reynolds shear stress has a Z-shaped profile owing to presence of vegetation on the channel sidewalls. By extrapolating the profiles for flow velocity and Reynolds shear stress towards the surface of the channel bed, the near-bed incipient velocities and the corresponding shear stresses for the incipient motion have been determined. By increasing the channel bed slope, the estimated near-bed parameters for all particle sizes decreased, indicating the dominance of the gravity effect over the pressure gradient effect. It was also observed that the Shields method was invalid for assessing the incipient motion of bed material in the presence of vegetation on the sidewalls of a channel that has a varying width.
Prevalencia y factores asociados a la depresión en jóvenes universitarios en Macas, Ecuador
Authors: Tasé Martínez María Josefa , Cajilema Ávila Andrea Priscila , Garzón Zabala Adriana Elizabeth
Published: October 2023

La depresión es de interés para profesionales de la conducta, al provocar cambios negativos en el comportamiento, identificando factores de riesgo para su desarrollo. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir la prevalencia de depresión y factores asociados. Para ello, se desarrolló un estudio descriptivo, de corte transversal, en 100 estudiantes universitarios de la Ciudad de Macas, en Ecuador, se aplicó el test Inventario de Depresión de Beck, (2014) para determinar prevalencia y grado de depresión y para asociación con los factores familiares se empleó la medida de asociación Razón de Prevalencia. Se encontró prevalencia de depresión del 55%, predominio del sexo femenino en 35% y forma leve en 22%. Los factores familiares predominaron en estudiantes con depresión y se destacaron los problemas económicos (94%), de convivencia (82%) y baja escolaridad de los padres (78%). Se concluyó que la depresión afecta a estudiantes universitarios de la Ciudad de Macas con mayor incidencia de los factores familiares.
Volatility and Firm Growth: Do Firm Size and Age Matter?
Authors: Rauf Rashid , Rashid Abdul , Imran Muhammad , Abdullah Muhammad
Published: October 2023

The impact of different types of volatility on the growth of Pakistani-listed non-financial firms is examined by using annual unbalanced panel data over the period 1988–2017. The differential effects of volatility conditional on firm size and age are also explored. The results indicate that the influence of firm volatility on firm growth is positive for small firms and negative for medium, large, young, and mature firms. The impact of market volatility is positive (negative) for small, young, and mature (large) firms. Industrial volatility has a negative impact on mature firms’ growth, but the impact on young, small, medium, and large firms is positive. Finally, the results indicate that the impact of macroeconomic volatility is positive for small firms but negative for large, young, and mature firms.
CONTROVERSIAL ASPECTS OF ELECTORAL SYSTEM ON THE EXAMPLE OF THE LEGISLATIVE AUTHORITIES OF THE TYUMEN OBLAST
Authors:   University of Tyumen, Tyumen, Russia, Романчук С. В. , Безуглый Р. Л. В. ,   University of Tyumen, Tyumen, Russia
Published: October 2023

The subject of the article is a comparative analysis of the Russian electoral system’s features currently employed in the Russian regional and municipal elections and the predominantly majoritarian electoral system. At the same time, in our opinion, the domestic practice of the majority electoral system cannot be reduced to describing its advantages, such as effectiveness, objectivity, and the ability to hold elections in a single round. The issue is relevant since the Russian electoral system at the level of the subjects of the Russian Federation is unique, with no similar systems in foreign practice. In addition, there are only a few studies devoted to the issue in question, mainly due to the insufficient generalization of empir-ical data. Moreover, data on two-stage elections conducted in Russia via the website of the Central Election Commission of the Russian Federation in the section “Elections, referendums, and other forms of direct expression of will” is not published. The article considers the effect of legislative changes and decisions of the Constitutional Court of the Russian Federation on the electoral process. The interrelation between the electoral system and features of the current political regime in Russia is identified. According to the authors’ scientific hypothesis, the existing electoral systems mainly support the existing nature of the hybrid political regime. The authors’ idea of the existing nature of the hybrid political regime is tested on the example of members of representative assemblies of three subjects of the Russian Federation, with a conclu-sion provided. Electoral democracy represents such a state when political competition is manageable and the electoral system is favorable for the dominant position of the party in power. The combination of democratic institutes in Russia today has allowed for the formation of the majority of parties in power in the legislative authorities of the subjects of the Russian Federation. In conclusion, the study suggests using an ideal model of the electoral system according to the Russian setting.
RESEARCH ON DESIGN ELEMENTS OF MATERNITY WEAR BASED ON THE PHYSIOLOGICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL NEEDS OF PREGNANT WOMEN: A NARRATIVE REVIEW
Authors: Sun Yuting , Md Nor Zainu Din
Published: October 2023

Pregnancy is a special stage in a woman's life, during which significant changes occur in her physical, physiological, psychological, and emotional aspects. The purpose of this study is to summarize the application of clothing design elements in maternity wear design based on the psychological and physiological needs of pregnant women, to meet their needs for exterior silhouette, internal structure, color, and fabric. The research findings will provide valuable information for maternity wear designers and researchers, and promote further development and innovation in the field of maternity wear design.
UNRAVELLING THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION PATTERNS AMONG UITM KEDAH STUDENTS
Authors: Zakaria Azfahanee , Ahmad Sarah Sabir , Syed Ahmad Alhady Syed Mohammed Alhady , Husin Tanty
Published: October 2023

One important component of success may it be career or any other endeavours is the ability to create communication competency known as interpersonal communication. Interpersonal communication is interaction between two or more people, however with the active dependent on social media, it has change on how people communicate. Therefore, this study is to identify the various aspects which contribute to the effects of social media on interpersonal communications. The study examines the relationship between three elements — self-esteem, environment, and academics — and the impact of social media on interpersonal communication among UiTM Kedah students. Data were analyse using the SPSS and the results designates that social media do have a great impact on the academic elements of students through interpersonal communication. This study provides valuable insights in addressing matters pertaining to social media and interpersonal communication among students.
THE POWER OF SPOKEN LANGUAGE: UNDERSTANDING COMMUNICATION APPREHENSION AND ENGLISH LANGUAGE ANXIETY AMONG KIAS DEGREE STUDENTS
Authors: Muhamad Nasir Noormaizatul Akmar , Yaacob Nurul Husna , Yaakub Norma , Che Ab Razak Che Nadzirah
Published: October 2023

Communication apprehension is characterized by the anxiety or fear individuals experience during interpersonal communication. In the context of foreign language learning, this apprehension can significantly impact learners' ability to effectively acquire, use, and master the language. Despite its importance, there remains a scarcity of studies exploring communication apprehension as a key contributor to anxiety, especially in language learning. This study focuses on examining communication apprehension as one of the four components known to trigger anxiety in foreign language learning. Specifically, the research targets KIAS degree students. The findings of this study contribute to the existing literature by delving into foreign language anxiety from the perspective of KIAS degree students. The research identifies anxiety-inducing situations and offers recommendations for educational interventions to address communication apprehension. Notably, the study reveals that these students feel uncomfortable or anxious in various situations, particularly when required to speak in English during impromptu tasks. By identifying specific triggers of anxiety, the research highlights the factors that hinder language learning progress among these students. This valuable knowledge can guide educators in developing appropriate instructional approaches and creating a supportive classroom environment. It is crucial for educators to pay special attention to learners struggling with communication anxiety, fostering a friendly and secure learning space where these students can confidently practice their language skills. This supportive environment plays a significant role in building their confidence and self-esteem, effectively alleviating unnecessary anxieties. Thus, this study sheds light on the significance of communication apprehension as a crucial factor influencing anxiety in foreign language learning among KIAS degree students. The findings underscore the importance of addressing this issue and designing tailored interventions to accommodate the unique challenges faced by these learners. Ultimately, by providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment, educators can empower the students to excel in their foreign language acquisition journey and enhance the overall language learning experience.
A STUDY ON THE LEVEL OF COGNITIVE FACTORS, AFFECTIVE FACTORS AND WRITING PERFORMANCE OF STUDENTS IN PAPER 4 OF THE MALAYSIAN UNIVERSITY ENGLISH TEST IN MALAYSIA
Authors: Shanmugam Balasundaram , Chew Fong Peng , Ng Lee Luan
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study is to analyse the level of cognitive (background knowledge, thinking maps use, critical thinking) factors, affective (writing self-efficacy, second language (L2) writing anxiety) factors and writing performance among students. This research adopts a quantitative approach through a survey methodology. The sample comprises 400 Malaysian University English Test (MUET) students from 26 schools in Penang, Malaysia. Data has been collected using six instruments: five questionnaires as well as one argumentative writing task. Descriptive statistics, including mean, percentage, frequency, and standard deviation, have been used to answer the research question. The outcomes indicate that the levels of background knowledge, writing self-efficacy, critical thinking, thinking maps use, and L2 writing anxiety are moderate. Because writing is an integral part of MUET, the outcomes of this study can serve as a springboard from which teachers can gain a deeper appreciation for background knowledge, writing self-efficacy, critical thinking, thinking maps use, and L2 writing anxiety. As a result, it may shed light on what teachers may do to assist these L2 writers in improving their background knowledge, writing self-efficacy, critical thinking, thinking maps use and overcoming their writing anxiety, which possesses a negative impact on their output.
Menakar Kinerja DPRD Kabupaten Merauke
Authors: Saragih Dapot Pardamean , Adam Aenal Fuad
Published: October 2023

Kapasitas DPRD dalam melaksanakan tugas dan fungsinya sebagai lembaga perwakilan menjadi penting di era pemerintahan daerah saat ini. Rendahnya kapasitas dan kapabilitas DPRD akan menjadi masalah yang pada gilirannya akan berdampak pada rendahnya kepercayaan publik terhadap kinerja DPRD. Oleh Karena itu, penelitian ini memandang pentingnya menakar kinerja DPRD Kabupaten Merauke, oleh untuk itu diperlukan penelitian awal untuk memahami sejauhmana DPRD Kabupaten Merauke menjalankan amanah dan tugas yang dipegang sebagai lembaga aspirasi rakyat dan sebagai penyelenggara pemerintahan yang bersinergi dengan pihak eksekutif dalam menjalankan roda pemerintahan daerah. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk melakukan penelurusan dalam memahami praktik DPRD Kabupaten Merauke dalam menjalankan peran, tugas dan fungsinya sebagai lembaga legislasi. Lokasi penelitian ini berada di Kabuapaten Merauke. Sementara data didapatkan melalui wawancara mendalam, observasi dan dokumentasi yang berhubungan tentang peran, tugas dan fungsi DPRD Kabupaten Merauke dalam proses penyusunan legislasi. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa kinerja anggota DPRD merauke belum memenuhi 6 dimensi kinerja yang mana masih banyak hambatan â€“ hambatan eksternal dalam proses penyusunan dan penyelesaian proses legislasi.
Urgensi Penerapan E-Government Dalam Pelayanan Publik
Authors: Heriyanto Heriyanto
Published: October 2023

Abstrak

Diperlukan peningkatan dalam tata kelola pemerintahan yaitu dengan diterapkannya e-government dalam pelayanan publik. Penerapan e-government dalam birokrasi publik,agar memberikan kemudahan bagi pelayanan kepada masyarakat di segala bidang. Penelitian bertujuan untuk mengetahui, memahami dan menganalisis urgensi dari penerapan e-government dalam pelayanan publik. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah kualitatif. Hasil dari  penelitian ini  adalah  (1) e-government adalah suatu proses sistem pemerintahan dengan memanfaatkan Informasi , komunikasi dan teknologi sebagai alat untuk memberikan kemudahan proses komunikasi dan transaksi (2) Untuk mengembangkan e-government, ada 4 fase  yaitu: kehadiran , interaksi , transaksi dan transformasi(3) Manfaat dari penerapan e-government adalah terciptanya pemerintahan  lebih transparan , berkurangnya praktik-praktik korupsi tata hubungan yang lebih ramping , peningkatan efisiensi pemerintahan di semua proses,  tercipta efisiensi dalam skala ruang dan waktu, struktur dan organisasi informasi yang tersistematisasi , peningkatan manajemen sumber daya baik dari sisi peningkatan bidang kendali maupun sumber daya organisasinya sendiri. Kesimpulan  dari  penelitian ini  adalah  (1) Penerapan dan pemanfaatan e-government dalam pelayanan publik merupakan bentuk tanggung jawab pemerintah dalam memberikan pelayanan yang terbaik bagi masyarakat; dan (2) e-government dalam pelayanan publik memberikan kemudahan bagi masyarakat dalam mendapatkan layanan yang berkaitan dengan berbagai keperluannya.

Kata Kunci: Penerapan, e-government, pelayanan publik
Implementasi Kebijakan Program Bantuan Langsung Tunai Desa Pada Masa Pandemi Covid-19
Authors: Makmur Muhammad Ardiansyah , Rifdan Rifdan
Published: October 2023

Penelitian ini dilatar belakangi keresahan dan konflik dimasyarakat akibat tidak menerima bantuan langsung tunai (BLT) dana desa sehingga muncul isu bahwa pemerintah desa dinilai tidak netral dalam pendataan bantuan langsung tunai dana desa sehingga penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisa implementasi kebijakan pemerintah desa dalam menyalurkan bantuan langsung tunai pada masa pamdemi COVID-19 di Desa pattimang Kecamatan malangke Kabupaten Luwu Utara. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dengan Teknik deskriptif melalui pengumpulan data wawancara, observasi, telaah dokumentasi hingga proses analisis data menggunakan teori Miles dan Huberman dengan menggunakan teori implementasi kebijakan edward III dengan beberapa pendekatan indikator yaitu komunikasi sumber daya meliputi sumberdaya manusia dan sumber saya anggaran,fasilitas,informasi dan kewenagan dan struktur birokrasi. Dari hasil penelitian ini menemukan kesimpulan yaitu program bantuan langsung tunai telah berjalan sesuai peraturan dan petunjuk teknis pelaksanaan namun belum dapat memberdayakan masyarakat secara keseluruhan akibat dari kuota penerima bantuan yang sangat terbatas.
Peran Agama Dalam Pencegahan Korupsi
Authors: Pecamuya Robertus
Published: October 2023

Permasalahan Korupsi di DKI Jakarta telah menjadi salah satu masalah yang serius. dari korupsi berjamaah hingga pribadi masing-masing. DKI Jakarta pada tahun 2010 dari survei oleh Transparansi International Indonesia (TII) menempatkan Povinsi DKI Jakarta dengan Point 4.43 dari 50 kota besar yang di ukur dengan rentang 0-10, dengan Nilai 0 berarti sangat korup dan nila 10 sangat bersih. Permasalahan ini yang menjadi latar belakang penelitian ini. Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan desain penelitian Deskriptif Kualitatif dengan judul â€œPeran Nilai Agama dalam Mencegah Korupsi di Provinsi DKI Jakartaâ€. Penelitian ini dilakukan dalam rangka mengetahui dan menganalisis bagaimana Peran nilai Agama dalam Mencegah Korupsi di Pronvinsi DKI Jakarta. Dalam penelitian ini peneliti mengambil data dengan cara observasi. Wawancara, dan Dokumentasi yaitu peneliti mengambil data-data yang berkaitan dengan penelitian, seperti dokumen publik dan dokumen privat dan juga foto-foto sebagai data penguat. Dari penelitian yang dilakukan hasilnya menunjukan bahwa fungsi-fungsi agama yang diperankan oleh pemuka-pemuka agama dan para PNS sudah dilakukan sesuai dengan peran mereka masing-masing dalam menjalankan tugas dan fungsinya masing-msaing di Provinsi DKI Jakarta. Hal-hal yang mempengaruhi orang-perorangan atau kelompok untuk melakukan korupsi adalah dipengaruhi oleh ahklak dan Moral daripada pribadi masing-masing PNS yang jelek. Dari segi penegakkan hukum, bahwa dari banyaknya kasus-kasus korupsi yang terjadi  di Provinsi DKI Jakarta yang seharusnya menjadi pelajaran berarti tetapi hal ini seolah-olah dianggap biasa saja karena penegakkan hukum yang masi tidak konsisten serta memandang bulu (kroni-kroni politik) dipengaruhi oleh faktor politik dan ekonomi yang menekan.
Peran Partai Politik Untuk Mendorong Keterwakilan Perempuan Di DPRD Kabupaten Mamasa Tahun 2019
Authors: Fariaty Citra N
Published: October 2023

Naskah ini menganalisis mengenai program partai politik dalam mendukung keterwakilan perempuan di DPRD Kabupaten Mamasa tahun 2019. Partai politik di Kabupaten Mamasa telah berusaha untuk merekrut perempuan kedalam daftar calon legislative 2019 sehingga pemenuhan kuota 30% bisa terpenuhi. Namun proses rekruitmen yang hanya terjadi menjelang pemilihan umum dinilai bukan langkah yang tepat.  Menjalankan fungsi partai politik dengan benar seperti rekruitmen kader, memberikan ruang bagi perempuan untuk menduduki jabatan-jabatan strategis dalam struktur kepengurusan partai, juga memberikan pendidikan politik bagi perempuan adalah cara-cara yang bisa ditempuh partai politik untuk memaksimalkan perannya dalam mendorong keterwakilan perempuan di DPRD Kabupaten Mamasa.
Kualitas Pelayanan Pendidikan Dasar 9 Tahun di Kawasan Perbatasan Republik Indonesia
Authors: Fitriani Fitriani , Teturan Yohanis Endes , Rudolf Arnoldus
Published: October 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memberikan gambaran tentang kualitas pelayanan pendidikan dasar 9 tahun di kawasan perbatasan Republik Indonesia khususnya pada distrik sota. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah metode deskriptif kualitatif, dengan informan sejumlah 20 orang. Kawasan perbatasan adalah wajah negara ini, dan pendidikan adalah modal dasar manusia agar dapat hidup lebih layak. Sesuai perundang-undangan yang berlaku di Negara Republik Indonesia, mewajibkan seorang anak mengikuti pendidikan dasar 9 tahun (Sekolah Dasar hingga Sekolah Menengah Pertama) dengan didukung dengan pelayanan pendidikan berupa infrastruktur fisik dan sdm diseluruh wilayah Republik Indoensia. Penelitian ini menemukan bahwa masih banyak anak usia 7 -12 tahun tidak bersekolah, ada yang putus sekolah bahkan ada yang merasa tidak perlu melanjutkan pendidikan, layanan pendidikan yang diberikan juga belum optimal dimana masih kekurangan ruang kelas, tidak memiliki ruang laboratorium, kekurangan guru  dan tingkat kehadiran guru yang cukup rendah. Maka saran yang dapat diberikan oleh peneliti adalah selain pengadaan infrastruktuk fisif dan sdm, system penghargaan,  maka harus ada sosialisasi atau bimbingan teknis yang berkelanjutan kepada guru agar lebih professional dan kepada masyarakat agar menyadari pentingnya pendidikan dasar 9 tahun ini.    

Keywords: Kualitas; Pelayanan; Pendidikan; Perbatasan.
Implementasi Program Toko Tani Indonesia Center (Ttic) Pada Masa Pandemi Covid-19
Authors: Putri Roza Maika , Kusdarini Kusdarini , Putera Roni Ekha
Published: October 2023

Program Toko Tani Indonesia Center (TTIC) bertujuan untuk mewujudkan ketahanan pangan terutama untuk memotong rantai distribusi pangan agar terwujudnya kestabilan harga pangan dan inflasi pangan, memudahkan akses pangan murah bagi masyarakat, mewujudkan harga yang wajar bagi produsen dan menguntungkan petani, dan menunjang PUPM dan LUPM yang merupakan program sebelumnya. Adapun fenomena yang terlihat sehingga peneliti perlu menganalisis implementasi Program ini adalah meningkatnya inflasi pangan dengan adanya pandemi Covid-19 yang mempengaruhi pencapaian tujuan program ini. Serta adanya dukungan politik yang memberi sumbangsih dana besar dalam pelaksanaan program ini setelah adanya Covid-19 menjadi fenomena yang menarik bagi peneliti melakukan penelitian ini. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk menganalisis dan mendeskripsikan Implementasi Program TTIC pada masa pandemi Covid-19 oleh Dinas Pangan Provinsi Sumatera Barat.Penelitian ini dikaji menggunakan metode kualitatif deskriptif dengan studi kepustakaan dan studi lapangan, serta dianalisis menggunakan teori implementasi kebijakan oleh Van Meter dan Van Horn. Hasil dari penelitian ini menyimpulkan bahwa implementasi program TTIC berjalan cukup baik, namun belum optimal. Hal ini disebabkan oleh beberapa kendala yang mempengaruhi keberhasilan kebijakan sehingga kinerja program TTIC masih rendah. Adapun kendala tersebut diantaranya adalah sumberdaya finansial yang belum mencukupi pelaksanaan program, sumberdaya manusia yang kurang memumpuni secara kuantitas dan kualitas, dan sarana prasarana yang masih belum mencukupi pelaksanaan program TTIC dalam lingkup Provinsi Sumatera Barat. Lalu juga kondisi sosial kelompok sasaran dalam hal ini petani/Gapoktan yang pada umumnya berhutang kepada tengkulak, sehingga tidak memasok ke TTIC.
Analisis Implementasi Sistem Informasi Data Korporasi Jasa Raharja (DASI-JR) Dalam Meningkatkan Produktivitas Kerja Pegawai PT Jasa Raharja Perwakilan Meulaboh
Authors: Vanocy Daffa Septian , Rafiie Said Achmad Kabiru
Published: October 2023

Artikel ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui implementasi Sistem Informasi Data Korporasi Jasa Raharja (DASI-JR) dalam meningkatkan produktivitas kerja pegawai di PT Jasa Raharja Perwakilan Meulaboh. Guna mendekati penelitian ini, implementasi Sistem Informasi DASI-JR dapat dilihat dari beberapa indikator menurut Edward III terdapat beberapa faktor yang dapat mempengaruhi keberhasilan proses implementasi yaitu : (1) Komunikasi; (2) Sumber daya; (3) Disposisi; dan (4) Struktur birokrasi. Data penelitian berasal dari dua sumber data, yaitu data primer dan data sekunder. Data primer penulis kumpulkan melalui hasil wawancara dengan seluruh pegawai di PT Jasa Raharja Perwakilan Meulaboh, sedangkan data sekunder penulis kumpulkan melalui buku, studi literatur dan penelitian terdahulu. Penelitian ini menyimpulkan bahwa sejauh ini penggunaan aplikasi DASI-JR pada proses pengajuan dan pembayaran dana santunan sudah cukup baik sehingga dapat meningkatkan produktivitas kerja pegawai. Namun, dalam implementasinya pada aplikasi DASI-JR masih ditemukan beberapa kendala sehingga aplikasi DASI-JR perlu untuk terus dikembangkan dan ditingkatkan agar produktivitas kerja pegawai semakin meningkat.
Desain Pengembangan Sumberdaya Aparatur Pemerintah Daerah
Authors: Rikardus Everistus , Tambaip Beatus , Serano Vinsenco Robertho
Published: October 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk 1) Mengetahui kondisi sumberdaya aparatur di Badan Kepegawaian Daerah Kabupaten Merauke; dan 2) Mengetahui strategi pengembangan sumberdaya aparatur di Badan Kepegawaian Daerah Kabupaten Merauke. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan di Badan Kepegawaian Daerah Kabupaten Merauke Provinsi Papua, dilaksanakan mulai Desember 2019 s/d Januari 2020. Jenis penelitian ini adalah kualitatif. Informan yang dilibatkan dalam penelitian ini adalah: 1) Kepala Badan Kepegawaian Daerah; 2) Subbag Strategi Badan Pengembangan Sumberdaya Badan Kepegawaian Daerah; 3) Pegawai alumni diklat; dan 4) Peneliti sendiri.  Tehnik pengumpulan data adalah wawancara, observasi, studi kepustakaan dan dokumentasi.  Tehnik analisis data dilakukan melalui reduksi data, penyajian data dan verifikasi data. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa  pelaksanaan pendidikan dan pelatihan khususnya di Badan Kepegawaian Daerah Kabupaten Merauke sudah efektif, meskipun masih ada beberapa yang perlu dilakukan pembenahan-pembenahan agar hasil pelaksanaan diklat bisa maksimal sesuai yang diharapkan. Pegawai merupakan sumber daya yang paling penting dalam organisasi publik. Pegawai yang baik dan memenuhi standar kualifkasi hanya akan dapat diperoleh melalui upaya rekrutmen yang efektif. Pelaksanaan diklat di Badan Kepegawaian Daerah Kabupaten Merauke  termasuk baik karena berdasarkan hasil menunjukan mulai dari materi pelatihan, metode penyampaian yang baik dan efektif dalam proses diklat, sarana dan prasarana sebagai penunjang kegiatan diklat, pemateri yang terampil, proses belajar sesuai standar prosedur, proporsi waktu dan metode pelaksanaan sudah berjalan baik dan efektif dengan apa yang dirasakan oleh para informan. Melalui pelaksanaan diklat di Badan Kepegawaian Daerah Kabupaten Merauke baik melalui diklat kepemimpinan, diklat tehnis dan diklat fungsional telah mampu meningkatkan kinerja dan produktivitas kerja pegawai.
Kualitas Pelayanan Administrasi Kependudukan Di Desa Keboansikep Kecamatan Gedangan Kabupaten Sidoarjo
Authors: Surendry Sendy Putri , Sukmana Hendra
Published: October 2023

Penelitian ini memiliki tujuan guna mendeskripsikan sekaligus menganalisis terkait dengan kualitas terhadap pelayanan administrasi kependudukan di Kantor Desa Keboansikep Kecamatan Gedangan Kabupaten Sidoarjo. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif deskriptif yang dimana menggunakan dua jenis data yakni data primer dan sekunder. Didalam penelitian ini menggunakan teknik analisis data dengan tiga komponen yang terdiri dari reduksi data, penyajian data, hingga penarikan kesimpulan. Kualitas terhadap pelayanan administrasi kependudukan di Desa Keboansikep menjadi fokus penelitian ini. Sumber data yang diperoleh melalui Library Research yaitu melalui buku, jurnal, web resmi, serta dokumen kearsipan. Hasil penelitian ini  yang pertam transparansi mengenai publikasi informasi yang belum maksimal. Kedua, mengenai akuntabilitas, yakni dalam hal ini belum sepenuhnya maksimal, karena belum sepenuhnya sesuai dengan enam prinsip dalam Peraturan Menteri Pendayagunaan Aparatur Negara dan Reformasi Birokrasi Republik Indonesia Nomor 14 Tahun 2017. Ketiga, terkait pemberi dan penerima pelayanan secara kondisional dirasa telah memenuhi kepuasan penerima pelayanan. Keempat, mengenai partisipatif, dimana warga dapat menyampaikan aspirasi melalui kegiatan MUSRENGBANGDES (Musyawarah Rencana Pembangunan Desa) dan penyampaian kendala secara langsung kepada pemerintah desa. Kelima, tentang kesamaan hak dan kewajiban, dimana pemerintah desa Keboansikep memberikan kesamaan hak terkait pelayanan kepada warga asli desa Keboansikep maupun warga pendatang yang berdomisili di desa Keboansikep.