bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ANALISIS TRANSPARANSI PENGELOLAAN KEUANGAN DAERAH BERBASIS WEBSITE PADA PEMERINTAH DAERAH DI-BALI, NTB, DAN NTT
Authors: Setyaningrum Novita
Published: February 2023

Transparansi pengelolaan keuangan daerah berupa penyediaan informasi pengelolaan keuangan daerah di situs resmi pemerintah daerah, merupakan salah satu upaya pencegahan tindak pidana korupsi karena adanya transparansi pengelolaan keuangan diyakini dapat meningkatkan pengawasan masyarakat terhadap pengelolaan keuangan pemerintah daerah. Lahirnya Undang-Undang Nomor 14 Tahun 2008 Tentang Keterbukaan Informasi Publik dan Instruksi Dalam Negeri No. 188.52/1797/SJ Tentang Peningkatan Transparansi Pengelolaan Anggaran Daerah seharusnya menjadi awal terlaksananya transparansi pengelolaan keuangan daerah. Oleh karena itu, tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui tingkat transparansi pengelolaan keuangan daerah pada pemerintah daerah di Bali, NTB, dan NTT. Penelitian dilakukan pada 44 pemerintah daerah di Bali, NTB, dan NTT, baik tingkat provinsi, kabupaten maupun kota pada periode tahun 2015 dan 2016.Pemeringkatan dilakukan berdasarkan tiga tahap pengelolaan keuangan daerah yang meliputi tahap perencanaan, pelaksanaan, dan pelaporan pertanggungjawaban serta berdasarkan empat kriteria pengukuran yang meliputi ketepatan waktu, ketersediaan, aksesibilitas, dan frekuensi pengungkapan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pada periode tahun 2015, tiga peringkat tertinggi diperoleh: (1) Pemerintah Provinsi Bali, 2) Kabupaten Badung, dan 3) Kabupaten Jembrana. Pada tahun 2016 diperoleh: 1) Provinsi Bali, 2) Provinsi NTB, dan 3) Kota Mataram. Peringkat terendah pada tahun 2015 dan 2016 diperoleh pemda yang sama yakni Kabupaten Timor Tengah Utara, Kabupaten Alor, dan Kabupaten Dompu.Selain itu, penelitian ini juga menunjukkan bahwa indeks transparansi pengelolaan keuangan daerah di Bali, NTB, dan NTT berdasarkan Open Budget Index (OBI) masih tergolong Tingkat Keterbukaan Anggaran “Tidak Cukup (Insufficient)”. Hal ini menunjukkan bahwa masih banyak pemda yang menganggap informasi keuangan daerah merupakan rahasia sehingga tidak dipublikasikan kepada masyarakat. Tiga Pemerintah daerah dengan peringkat tertinggi menunjukkan karakteristik: (1) rata-rata jumlah penduduk yang lebih besar, (2) rata-rata total aset pemerintah daerah yang lebih besar, (3) rata-rata jumlah anggota DPRD yang lebih banyak,(4) rata-rata opini BPK atas LKPD yang lebih baik, (5) rata-rata rasio PAD yang lebih tinggi, (6) rata-rata total belanja daerah yang lebih besar, dan (7) rata-rata IPM yang lebih tinggi.
EVALUASI PERENCANAAN MANAJEMEN TEKNOLOGI INFORMASI DENGAN PENDEKATAN COBIT 5 FRAMEWORK (STUDI PADA DINAS KOMUNIKASI DAN INFORMATIKA KABUPATEN PRINGSEWU)
Authors: Puspitasari Endah Yuni
Published: February 2023

Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kualitatif yang bertujuan untuk mengungkapkan sejauh mana kesesuaian perencanaan manajemen TI Diskominfo Pringsewudengan domain APO (align, plan, organize) pada COBIT 5 framework sertamengukur tingkat kapabilitas perencanaan manajemen TI di DiskominfoPringsewu berdasarkan COBIT 5 framework. Domain APO memiliki tiga belasproses yang terkait dengan strategi, perencanaan, dan identifikasi TI sertakontribusinya dalam pencapaian tujuan organisasi. Diskominfo Pringsewu saat initelah memiliki masterplan pengembangan e-government namun belum ada prosespengevaluasian. Hal ini terjadi karena belum ada kebijakan terkait hal itu baik daripihak internal maupun eksternal organisasi. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkanbahwa tingkat kapabilitas domain APO sebesar 45,77% yakni berada pada levelsatu dengan tingkat pencapaian partially achieved. Penelitian ini menunjukkanbahwa komponen penting yang belum dimiliki oleh Diskominfo Pringsewu dalamproses pengembangan manajemen teknologi informasi saat ini ialah pengelolaankualitas layanan, pengelolaan risiko, dan pengelolaan keamanan sistem informasi.
IDENTIFIKASI FAKTOR-FAKTOR PENYEBAB TINGGINYA SALDO PERSEDIAAN OBAT (STUDI PADA RSUD ABC DAN RSUD QYZ)
Authors: Zulkifli Muhammad
Published: February 2023

Permasalahan terkait tingginya saldo persediaan obat telah terjadi pada Rumah Sakit UmumDaerah (RSUD) di beberapa wilayah di Indonesia. Hal ini mengindikasikan bahwapengelolaan persediaan obat pada RSUD belum mencerminkan efisiensi sehingga perludilakukan penelitian terkait permasalahan tersebut. Penelitian ini bertujuan untukmengeksplorasi faktor-faktor yang menyebabkan tingginya saldo persediaan obat pada RSUDABC dan RSUD QYZ.Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kualitatif dengan menggunakan pendekatan studimultikasus. Pengumpulan data dilakukan melalui analisis dokumen dan wawancara yangbersifat semiterstruktur. Pemilihan partisipan menggunakan teknik purposive sampling.Teknik analisis data dilakukan dengan dua tahap, yakni analisis data kasus individu dananalisis data lintas kasus.Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa terdapat enam faktor penyebab tingginya saldopersediaan obat pada RSUD ABC dan RSUD QYZ, yaitu meliputi (1) penetapan kebutuhanobat pada akhir tahun, (2) pola peresepan dokter, (3) sumber daya manusia, (4) teknologiinformasi, (5) formularium rumah sakit, dan (6) peraturan.
ANALISIS PENILAIAN KINERJA AKTIVITAS TANGGUNG JAWAB SOSIAL DENGAN METODE PENGUKURAN KINERJA PRISM DALAM PERSPEKTIF GLOBAL REPORTING INITIATIVE (GRI) (Kasus pada Unit Program Kemitraan dan Bina Lingkungan (PKBL) Suatu BUMN Pelabuhan)
Authors: Indrawan Freddy
Published: February 2023

IntisariAktivitas tanggung jawab sosial perusahaan (Corporate Social Responsibility, disingkat CSR) perlu didukung dengan implementasi strategi yang tepat memiliki manfaat dalam meningkatkan nilai perusahaan. Karenanya, penting agar terdapat pengukuran kinerja CSR untuk tujuan pencapaian strategi perusahaan. Program Kemitraan dan Bina Lingkungan (PKBL) merupakan wujud aktivitas CSR yang dilakukan Badan Usaha Milik Negara (BUMN) selama ini masih menggunakan ukuran kinerja yang mengacu pada Keputusan Menteri BUMN No. KEP-100/MBU/2002 yaitu tingkat efektivitas dan kolektabilitas penyaluran program kemitraan. Hal ini dirasakan kurang karena tidak menyangkut aktivitas bina lingkungan, tidak mengukur aspek ekonomis, sosial dan lingkungan secara keseluruhan yang berdampak bagi masyrakat sekitar BUMN dan tidak dapat dikaitkan dengan strategi BUMN sendiri. Penelitian ini menganalisa pengukuran kinerja PKBL dengan menggunakan model Sustainable Triangle Principle (STP). Model STP ini mengadopsi penggunaan pendekatan kinerja Balance Scorecard (BSC) dan metode penilaian kinerja prisma (prism) dalam menempatkan prinsip-prinsip kebelanjutan (sustainability principle) menurut pendekatan Global reporting Initiatives (GRI) untuk diintegrasikan dalam rancangan pengukuran kinerja manajemen (performance management measure) melalui pemahaman atas pemangku kepentingan, proses dan kapabilitas PKBL. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kualitatif yang menggunakan strategi studi kasus. Teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah wawancara dan dokumentasi. Teknik analisis yang digunakan untuk menjelaskan fokus penelitian ini adalah analisis eksploratif dan deskriptif, yaitu menyusun seluruh data-data yang diperoleh dengan melakukan pendokumentasian secara sistematis, kemudian melakukan pemilahan data yang berkaitan dengan fokus penelitian. Setelah itu dilakukan proses analisis untuk memperoleh gambaran/deskripsi tentang objek penelitian untuk dapat menjawab pertanyaan penelitian. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukan terdapat indeks penilaian kinerja yang dapat digunakan oleh pengelola PKBL yang mencakup aspek ekonomi, lingkungan dan sosial. Indeks kinerja ini telah mengeksplorasi apa yang menjadi keinginan dan kontribusi pemangku kepentingan yang mencakup pemerintah sebagai regulator dan pemegang saham, karyawan, pihak ketiga sebagai peneydia jasa bagi PKBL dan masyarakat yang meneriman bantuan program kemitraan dan bina lingkungan.
Organic Acids Modified Starch–CMC Based Biodegradable Film: Antibacterial Activity, Morphological, Structural, Thermal, and Crystalline Properties
Authors: Kaur Parvinder , Alam Tanweer , Singh Harinder , Jain Jyoti , Singh Gayatri , Broadway A.A.
Published: February 2023

A novel organic acid-modified starch and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) based films plasticized with glycerol were prepared from unconventional tikhur starch (Curcuma angustifolia) by solution casting. Wet milling was used in the laboratory to extract starch from the tikhur rhizome. Carboxymethyl cellulose, at a concentration of (0.2 g−1 starch dry basis) was blended with the starch to improve its film-forming properties. Three different treatments with varying organic acids (lactic, citric, and acetic acid) with a concentration of 5% w/w of starch (2 ppm) in a film-forming solution were given. The effect of organic acid incorporation on the antibacterial, morphological, structural, thermal, and crystalline properties of developed films was studied. The minimum inhibitory concentration values of the three organic acids against gram-negative (E. coli) and gram-positive (S. aureus) bacteria were measured using the tube dilution method. The MIC results revealed that lactic acid and citric acid are effective against both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, while acetic acid showed more effectiveness against gram-negative bacteria (E. coli). MBC results revealed that organic acids have potent bactericidal activity. Citric acid resulted in higher inhibition for gram-positive bacteria (S. aureus) compared to gram-negative bacteria (E. coli.). While acetic acid showed higher inhibition for E. coli. than S. aureus. Lactic acid displayed similar inhibition against both S. aureus and E. coli. Among different organic acids, lactic acid incorporation resulted in a more homogeneous, transparent, and thermally stable film. As evidenced by the micrographs, the lactic acid incorporation resulted in a compact film structure without any visible cracks. While X-ray diffraction showed an increase in crystalline properties due to organic acid modification. In this study, it was indicated that modification with organic acids (polycarboxylic acids) effectively improved the overall properties of developed films depending on the type of organic acid used. The developed films have the potential to replace harmful synthetic films in food packaging.
Differential Laccase Production among Diverse Fungal Endophytes in Aquatic Plants of Hulimavu Lake in Bangalore, India
Authors: Jayaram Saranya , Biswas Soma , Philip Indhu , Umesh Mridul , Sarojini Suma
Published: February 2023

The ability of plants to acclimatise and thrive in stressed environments can be attributed, in part, to the reserve of endophytic fungi that they harbour, that help enhance physiological and immunological defence and tolerance to various biotic and abiotic stressors. The present work has focussed on screening laccase producing endophytic fungi residing in different aquatic plants isolated from Hulimavu Lake, Bengaluru. This lake is well known for its water pollution contributed by anthropogenic factors. Survival of plants in this lake can hence be associated with their rich repertoire of endophytic fungi that enhance host plant defence towards stressors. Upon isolation and culturing of endophytic fungi, qualitative laccase detection using laccase specific growth media and quantitative laccase estimation using ABTS (2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)) substrate were performed. Differential production rates were observed for the laccase enzyme by different endophytic fungi; production rates also varied between fungi isolated from different parts like node, stem, root and leaf of the same plant species too. Phylogenetic analysis of fungal isolates with highest laccase production was performed and the species was found to be Cladosporium tenuissimum. Even the crude extract of this strain displayed laccase production of 42.16U/L, as revealed by ABTS assay. Hence this strain is a promising candidate for optimization studies for utilisation in the domain of bioremediation and industrial applications.
Fault Detection and Protection of Power Transformer Using Fuzzy Logic
Authors: Dapshima Babagana Ali , Essa Yasmin Chuupa , Chaturvedi Dr. Saumya
Published: February 2023

Abstract: Power transformer malfunctions cause significant power outages and, as a result, material damage. This critical issue must be resolved. Power transformers must be protected from various fault conditions and power system failure. Fuzzy logic is used in this study to detect and protect power system transformer faults. In the simulation system that diagnoses transformer faults and monitors its operating conditions, the fuzzy logic (FL) toolbox in MATLAB/ SIMULINK software was used. The input variables, current and rate of change of current with time, have been identified as "Error" and "Error-Dot" in the programme. The study's findings show that when the output response is zero, the current in the transformer is normal. This is obtained by injecting [0] and [0] input values into the system, resulting in a response of "6e(-017)," which is close to zero. If the output response is greater than zero, the transformer current is rising above normal and the protection scheme should be notified. This condition is achieved by giving the system input values of [-1.5] and [5] and expecting a response of "+5". If the response is less than zero, the transformer current is less than normal, and the protection scheme should be notified. The study concluded that electrical faults and mechanical failures in power transformers can be quickly identified using Fuzzy logic. Thus, power transformer damage is avoided by controlling relays more effectively and quickly. This has resulted in significant savings in maintenance and repair costs. It is assumed that the study was a success.
Factors of international trade and environmental degradation in the UAE: Moderating role of foreign investor characteristics
Authors: Albahar Saood Mohammad Hassan , Islam Rabiul
Published: February 2023

The purpose of the study is to identify the moderating role of economic factors of foreign investor over the relationship between economic factors and environmental degradation in Dubai which is among the fastest-growing economies and is attracting foreign direct investments (FDI) at the best. In order to meet the objectives of the study two hypotheses were developed. The first hypothesis deals with the direct effect of economic dimensions of foreign direct investment (Alkathiri, 2022), whereas, the second hypothesis deals with the moderating impact of foreign investor characteristics over the relationship between economic dimensions of foreign direct investment and environmental degradation. Both hypotheses have been checked over the primary data collected from the executives of multinational companies operating in Dubai. The findings of the study revealed that economic dimensions of foreign direct investment have a significant impact on environmental degradation. Likewise, foreign investor characteristics hold a significant moderating role in the significant relationship between economic factors of foreign direct investment and environmental degradation (Khan & Agha, 2015). The study showed some limitations and opened the horizons for future research.
Application of Hybrid Neural Models to Bioprocesses: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Agharafeie Roshanak , Oliveira Rui , Ramos João Rodrigues Correia , Mendes Jorge M.
Published: February 2023

Due to the complexity of biological processes, developing model-based
strategies for monitoring, optimization and control is nontrivial.
Hybrid neural models, combining mechanistic modeling with artificial
neural networks, have been reported as powerful tools for bioprocess
applications. In this paper, a systematic literature review is presented
focused on the application of hybrid neural models to bioprocesses by
Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses
(PRISMA) over the last 30 years. This analysis showed that hybrid neural
modeling has covered a wide range of microbial processes, animal cells,
mixed microbial cultures, and enzyme biocatalysis. Hybrid neural models
have been mainly applied for predictive modeling/process analysis,
process monitoring/software sensors, open- and closed-loop control,
batch-to-batch control, model predictive control, intensified design of
experiments, process analytical technology, quality-by-design, and more
recently, digital twins. Hybrid modeling experienced a decline in the
number of publications after a peak in 2004 and is now surging again. A
“model scale” research gap was identified, which will likely narrow by
a better integration with deep learning and systems biology in the near
future. The biopharma sector is currently a major driver but
applications to biologics quality attributes (e.g. glycosylation), new
modalities and downstream unit operations are significant research gaps.
Effects of landlocking on the genome-wide divergence of Galaxias brevipinnis populations in the South Island of New Zealand
Authors: Darestani Mitra Mohammadi , Dutoit Ludovic , Augspurger Jason , Waters Jonathan , Ingram Travis
Published: February 2023

Landlocking is a process whereby a population of normally diadromous
fish becomes limited to freshwater, potentially leading to behavioural,
morphological, and genetic changes, and occasionally speciation. The
study of recently landlocked populations can shed light on how
populations adapt to environmental change, and how such life-history
shifts affect population-genetic structure. Kōaro (Galaxias brevipinnis)
is a facultatively diadromous Southern Hemisphere galaxiid fish that
frequently becomes landlocked in inland lakes. This study compares seven
landlocked kōaro populations to diadromous populations from main and
offshore islands of New Zealand. Genotyping-by-sequencing was used to
obtain genotypes at 18,813 single nucleotide polymorphism sites for each
population. Analyses of population structure revealed that most
landlocked populations were genetically highly distinct from one
another, as well as from diadromous populations. A few particularly
isolated island and lake populations were particularly strongly
genetically differentiated. Landscape characteristics were measured to
test whether lake elevation, size, or distance from the sea predicted
genetic diversity or differentiation from diadromous kōaro. While there
were no significant relationships indicating isolation-by-distance or
isolation-by-environment, we detected a trend toward lower genetic
diversity in lakes at higher elevations. Our findings illustrate the
critical role that landlocking can play in the structure of
intraspecific genetic diversity within and between populations.
Can digital positive psychology interventions improve the quality of life in bipolar disorder?
Authors: Geerling Bart , Kelders Saskia , Klooster Peter ten , Stevens Anja , Kupka Ralph , Bohlmeijer Ernst
Published: February 2023

Background Bipolar disorder (BD) is a severe mental illness
characterised by recurrent manic, hypomanic and depressive episodes
alternating with euthymic periods. The burden of BD is vast, and many
patients have unmet needs in their treatment. To better support patients
in their personal recovery and well-being, positive psychology
interventions (PPIs) have shown to be a promising tool. Recently, a
mobile application has been developed to offer PPIs: the WELLBE BD-app.
Aim The current study was designed to study the acceptability
of the WELLBE BD-app and evaluate the feasibility of the design for use
in a larger controlled trial (CT). We also studied the potential effects
on mental health. Method This pilot-study used a mixed-methods
quantitative and qualitative approach in which participants were
randomly assigned to an intervention- or a treatment-as-usual control
group, each with 20 participants with BD. The study sample consisted of
a seven weeks during intervention. To assess acceptability, we held
semi-structured interviews in the intervention group and collected log
data and questionnaire data on the actual use of the app and perceived
value of the accompanying exercises. Feasibility was determined by the
number of completers of the intervention in both the intervention and
control groups. Potential effects on mental health outcomes were
measured using an extensive set of pre and post-intervention
questionnaires. Results The intervention was fully completed by
52.7% (n = 11) of the participants and partly completed (1 to 4
modules) by 37.8% (n = 8). The post-test response rate was 73% in both
groups. On average, the exercises were rated with a value of 7.5 on a
scale of 1 to 10 ( SD = 1.2). Users found the application easy to
use, useful for people with BD, and to have an attractive design.
Problems with installation, technical problems, and lack of support were
barriers to using the app. Guidance by an expert by experience (in
videos before the exercises) was preferred by 80% of the participants
instead of guidance by a professional. Effects on mental health outcomes
were small and statistically non-significant, both between- and within
groups. Although we found no significant results in the quantitative
part of our study, the qualitative results show that people with BD
appreciated the content and design of the intervention. The minimal
effects on mental health may be partly explained by the small sample
size and the relatively high levels of mental health of the participants
at baseline. Conclusions and Implications for Practice Based on
this study a larger trial on the effects of the WELLBE-app appears
feasible and warranted. Next to minor modifications based on this pilot
study, to create optimal impact including patients with lower levels of
well-being is recommended and the guidance by experts or peers needs to
be considered.
Rasgando o Véu do Esquecimento do Passado: Um Estudo Sobre Birthmarks, Memória Extracerebral e Reencarnação
Authors: de Mendonça Junior Adolfo
Published: February 2023

Este artigo objetiva perscrutar a emersão dos fenômenos de "birthmarks" (sinais ou marcas de nascença) e memória extracerebral, que ocorreu em meados do século XX, na América, África, Ásia e em outras partes do mundo, chamando a atenção de acadêmicos como Ian Stevenson (1970), Hemendra Banerjee (1987) e Hernani Guimarães Andrade (2016), numa analogia às mesas girantes que no século XIX, estavam em voga e chamaram a atenção dos eruditos. O objeto de estudo é a sede da memória. Objetivos específicos: i) fazer um estudo sobre os conceitos de "birthmarks" e memória extracerebral, à luz da ciência; ii) denotar a alma, o perispírito e a sede da memória na visão espírita e iii) apresentar um caso sobre "birthmarks", do livro Reencarnação no Brasil, de Hernani Guimarães Andrade. A metodologia escolhida é a pesquisa bibliográfica e documental, de abordagem qualitativa, intencionada em evidenciar casos de crianças com idade entre 3 e 6 anos, que apresentavam marcas congênitas e emersões mnemônicas, recordando espontaneamente, como acontecia a formação dessas marcas em outra existência, quase sempre ligadas a traumas ou ferimentos, que causavam sua presumida morte. Espera-se com esse trabalho responder à seguinte indagação: as emersões mnemônicas e os "birthmarks", um fato relativamente novo, posterior aos estudos de Allan Kardec, ao rasgar o véu do esquecimento do passado, podem contradizer o pensamento de Kardec?
The role of quercetin in the treatment of liver diseases: the review based on experimental and clinical investigations
Authors: Prysyazhnyuk V.P. , Senyuk B.P. , Glubochenko O.V. , Prysyazhnyuk P.V. , Bukach O.P.
Published: February 2023

Scientific review covers current data regarding the role of quercetin in the therapeutic corrections of various liver diseases, in particular non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, chronic hepatitis, drug-induced liver disease. The aim of the review was to sum up current scientific data regarding quercetin properties, its mechanism of action and possibilities of this flavonoid in the treatment of various liver diseases.Conclusions. Quercetin is found to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, antisteatotic and antifibrotic properties. The abovementioned makes this flavonoid potentially useful in the treatment of various liver disease, in particular non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, chronic hepatitis of different etiologies, and drug induced liver disease.
THE PERCEPTION OF ISLAMIC RELIGIOUS EDUCATION STUDENTS ON KAHOOT! AS A QUIZ
Authors: Ilmudinulloh Rafiud
Published: February 2023

Kahoot! is the most popular online platform in universities to increase student participation in class. The application is suggested as an instrument for the assessment of learning outcomes. This study aims to determine the level of perception of Islamic religious education students towards Kahoot! as a quiz in the midterm exam. The research approach used is descriptive qualitative with questionnaire and observation data collection techniques. The data were then analyzed using descriptive statistics by presenting the data in the form of tables and diagrams. Based on the results of the study, it can be concluded that students' perceptions are very positive in terms of three main indicators, namely the ease of understanding how the application works, the ability of the application to involve participants, and the relevance of quizzes to learning activities. Most students think that Kahoot! provide new experiences that are interesting, fun, and challenging. They are motivated and actively participate in taking quizzes.
Survival of human cells in tissue-engineered constructs stored at room temperature
Authors: Rogovaya OS , Alpeeva EV , Ruchko ES , Eremeev AV , Vorotelyak EA
Published: February 2023

Tissue-engineered constructs (TECs), the dermal equivalent (DE) and the skin equivalent (SE), are allogenic equivalents of the skin and derm used to treat critical skin loss. Selection of storage conditions that contribute to longer shelf life, thereby expanding the possibilities of logistics and use, is one of the major issues related to the TECs development. The study was aimed to determine the shelf life of the DE and SE TECs stored in normal saline at room temperature by assessing morphology and viability of the cells on their surface, along with the levels of endothelial growth factor (VEGF) secreted by these cells. Using the MTT assay and staining with vital dye, we discovered the following: when TECs of both types were stored in normal saline, the cells viability and metabolic activity decreased by more than 50% by days 3–4 of storage. Furthermore, these decreased faster in DEs than in SEs. Morphology of the cells isolated from DEs and SEs after the 3-day storage remained unchanged. Mesenchymal stem cells on the surface of TECs kept producing VEGF after TECs culture medium was changed for saline solution (confirmed by immunofluorescence assay), which could indicate that the cells retained essential secretory activity.
Numerical approximation of convective Brinkman-Forchheimer flow with variable permeability
Authors: Nwaigwe Chinedu , Oahimire Jonathan , Weli Azubuike
Published: February 2023

This paper investigates the nonlinear dispersion of a pollutant in a non-isothermal incompressible flow of a temperature-dependent viscosity fluid in a rectangular channel filled with porous materials. The Brinkman-Forch-heimer effects are incorporated and the fluid is assumed to be variably permeable through the porous channel. External pollutant injection, heat sources and nonlinear radiative heat flux of the Rossland approximation are accounted for. The nonlinear system of partial differential equations governing the velocity, temperature and pollutant concentration is presented in non-dimensional form. A convergent numerical algorithm is formulated using an upwind scheme for the convective part and a conservative-type central scheme for the diffusion parts. The convergence of the scheme is discussed and verified by numerical experiments both in the presence and absence of suction. The scheme is then used to investigate the flow and transport in the channel. The results show that the velocity decreases with increasing suction and Forchheimer parameters, but it increases with increasing porosity.
Application of Double Skin Façade (DSF) and Electrochromic Glass in Buildings in Tropical Climate
Authors: Wicaksono Muhammad Satrio , Purwanto L. M. F.
Published: February 2023

One method in terms of architectural technology used to minimize the negative impact of overheating is to design a building with double skin façade and integrating it with electrochromic glass. The purpose of this research is to reveal whether the use of a double skin façade and the application of electrochromic glass would be preferable for buildings in tropical climates, in terms of obtaining aesthetic points while not having to sacrifice thermal comfort nor committing energy waste at the same time. The data in this research is obtained with qualitative – descriptive comparative method, which is applied for room temperature measurement with a computer simulation software, based on pre-existing theories, reference standards and material specifications from existing manufacturers. The results of this study conclude that the application of double skin façade in a building does make a significant contribution to achieving thermal and lighting comfort. Both profiles of space reduction with the use of electrochromic glass in buildings in tropical climates are able to reach ideal temperatures in comparison to when ordinary glass material is applied. And third, it is proven that the double skin façade technology and applying electrochromic glass on a building can provide significant energy efficiency for long-term projects.
The Use of Residual Municipal Solid Waste as an Alternative Fuel
Authors: Pavliuk Nonna , Sigal Oleksandr , Safiants Artem , Plashykhin Sergii
Published: February 2023

The relevance of the work is determined by the war of the Russian Federation in Ukraine and the decision of the leading countries of the world, the EU and Ukraine to abandon energy dependence on energy from the Russian Federation. An analysis is provided of the main directions for reducing the European Union's dependence on Russian natural gas by a third by the end of 2022, in particular, the development of the Waste-to-Energy market in the EU and other leading countries of the world. The main ways are presented and computational investigations of the possibility of substitution of certain amounts of natural gas with artificial fuel from residual MSW are carried out.

Based on the performed calculations, the authors formulated proposals for the feasibility of constructing facilities for energy use of residual MSW in different regions of Ukraine, as well as connecting them to the systems of centralized heating in Ukraine. The paper proves the necessity of building Waste-to-Energy power plants in the largest, large and big cities of the country. The ecological expediency of recovery of residual waste is shown.
A study of immersive technology for product usability improvement design based on comprehensive value evaluation
Authors: Tang Zhi , Zhao Yixuan , Zheng Weiming , Korotkov Alexander Nikolayevich
Published: February 2023

The combined value of any product design method depends on the design benefits and costs of use, determining the need to put the method into practice. In this study, a virtual reality design system was constructed to support the widely adopted user interview method for the usability improvement design of an existing product, using an industrial remote control as example. The combined value of the method was verified to be superior to the use of user interviews alone, in terms of the number and importance of usability questions mined by users, the level of styling of improved design solutions guided by usability questions, and the willingness of designers to use the method. It provides a useful reference for the promotion of immersive technology in the field of product design and the search for new focus points.
Identification of honey bee sperm structures following the use of various staining techniques
Authors: Banaszewska Dorota , Andraszek Katarzyna
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Bees are currently artificially inseminated on a large scale for breeding and research purposes. The sperm of bees has a complex and varied structure, and determination of specific morphological defects in it is very difficult. Its comprehensive analysis by inspecting morphology and morphometry is an important tool for improving honey bee lines. The staining technique should interfere with the cells as little as possible while clearly showing the boundaries of the head and other elements. In this study, a comparative analysis of the morphometry of sperm was performed with various techniques for staining drone semen.

Material and Methods

Semen was collected from 150 sexually mature Buckfast bee drones by artificially everting the copulatory organ. The morphology and morphometry of the sperm were assessed on slides prepared by three staining methods according to the protocols described online, using the Sperm Class Analyzer system. The lengths of the acrosome, nucleus, head in total, midpiece, tail without midpiece, tail with midpiece, and entire sperm were measured.

Results

The most details of the drone sperm structure could be seen when stained with the eosin-nigrosin complex. This method made it possible to identify all structures and revealed the uneven distribution of sperm proteins in different parts of the tail. With the Sperm Stain method fewer details of the sperm structure were recognisable, and the fewest were with SpermBlue.

Conclusion

The staining method, and thus the chemical reagents used, affect the dimensions of drone sperm. Given the great research potential of modified spermatozoa of insects, a standard for slide preparation for the evaluation of morphological and morphometric semen parameters should be established, as this would facilitate result comparison between laboratories and increase the value of morphological analysis of sperm for predicting and assessing fertility.
El refuerzo de la naturaleza reglamentaria de los instrumentos de ordenación urbanística bajo la perspectiva del Desarrollo Urbano Sostenible e Integrado
Authors: Cerezo Ibarrondo Álvaro
Published: February 2023

Adicionalmente a las distintas posiciones de la doctrina y al criterio jurisprudencial sobre la naturaleza reglamentaria de los instrumentos de ordenación urbanística, la incorporación a los mismos del principio del Desarrollo Urbano Sostenible e Integrado (DUSI) hace necesario reevaluar dicha naturaleza, permite ampliar la justificación del concepto y constatar la proporcionalidad de la declaración de nulidad de pleno derecho cuando las nuevas determinaciones, contenidos y exigencias legales no se cumplen
PROBLEM „TEŽINA“ SUKOBLJENIH USTAVNIH NAČELA U ANALIZI PROPORCIONALNOSTI (ODVAGIVANJU)
Authors: Keršić Marin
Published: February 2023

This paper deals with the antinomies between constitutional principles by analysing balancing as one of the methods to solve the problem. More specifically, the author focuses on the balancing test in the context of proportionality and the question of the “weight” of the right. Firstly, the paper analyses the notions of constitutional principles and antinomies. Next, these notions are contextualised in the legal system of the Republic of Croatia using the example of the conflict between the protection of private and family life, dignity, reputation, and honour (Art. 35 of the Constitution of the Republic of Croatia), freedom of thought and expression (Art. 38 of the Constitution of the Republic of Croatia). By deploying the analysis of the practice of the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Croatia and the European Court of Human Rights in the mentioned conflict, the paper presents theoretical conclusions regarding balancing and the question of the “weight” of the rights. The paper has two goals: First, point out the problems present in the balancing test related to the idea of the “weight” of the rights; second, present proposals that may lead to a clearer understanding of the notions introduced.
CONFLICTS OF INTEREST BETWEEN LOCAL GOVERNMENTS AND CENTRAL LEGISLATION – HOW FINANCIALLY INDEPENDENT CAN LOCAL GOVERNMENTS BE
Authors: Pfeffer Zsolt
Published: February 2023

Rights and responsibilities of local governments are defined by the central legislature, in accordance with the given country’s rules, traditions, institutions of constitutional and administrative law. To perform public duties they need financial resources, incomes and wealth. Above these, the right of disposition, financial and economic autonomy have to be provided, moreover, the possibility to receive suitable subsidies from central budget. The proportion and guarantees of the income are important too, as the autonomy of local governments depending from central subsidies may be injured. The question of primary importance is that where are the limits of the mentioned autonomy, protected by various constitutional provisions and international legal documents, how the legislature is able to control the law of taxation, to enter transactions that give rise to debts, or how to withdraw different resources from local governments. The central withdrawal and reallocation of resources may raise the issue of local government solidarity. As well as the extent to which the property and income of local governments can be limited. According to the practice of the various constitutional courts and the supreme courts (American, French, German and Hungarian judicature), the rights and authorities of local governments are not unlimited. Although, local governments have to get effective protection, but after all it is the state who determines the content and the framework of relevant legal regulations for local governments. Therefore, within the constitutional framework, the central legislature has a serious opportunity to intervene in protected autonomy by withdrawing or reallocating revenues, assets or subsidies. The research method of the study is primarily financial and administrative legal analysis and legal comparison: in addition to international, constitutional and legal (American, German, French, Hungarian) rules, the basic characteristics of local government financial autonomy are presented based on the principles worked out in various Supreme Court and Constitutional Court decisions elements, as well as the limitations that said autonomy must face as a result of the decisions of the central legislature. The subject of the research is the financial autonomy of local governments and its legal limitations, which point out that autonomy - unfortunately, cannot be unlimited. Local taxation, own revenues and subsidies can indeed provide adequate foundations for independent local government management, however, since local governments must adapt in the state’s central system of public administration and public finances, therefore, within the constitutional framework, the central legislation can make decisions that adversely affect their incomes, budgets and assets.
The role of transforaminal nerve block in the treatment of lumbar disc herniation and spinal canal stenosis
Authors: Sharaf Yusuf , Taha Baha , Alzaimoor Zahra R. , Sayyad Yakub K.
Published: February 2023

Objectives:

This study aimed to evaluate patients undergoing transforaminal nerve block treatment in lumbar disc herniation (LDH) and spinal canal stenosis.

Methods:

It is an observational descriptive cross-sectional study at a single tertiary care hospital. It is based on a review of electronic medical records of patients suffering from lower back pain from either LDH or spinal canal stenosis and who underwent transforaminal nerve blocks between January 2019 and December 2021.

Results:

A total of 440 patients were included in this study. Study findings reported that the etiology behind the treatment was mostly due to spinal canal stenosis with 223 cases (50.7%), followed by disc bulge with 208 cases (47.3%), two cases had both diagnoses, and the others had different etiologies such as degenerative disease with scoliosis, micro decompression. The visual analog scale pain score was highest on the pre-injection time point (7.1 ± 1.1) and decreased significantly with time after the injection to reach 2.7 ± 1.04 after 6 months. Similarly, the Oswestry Disability Index was high during pre-injection (64.9 ± 7.5) and decreased significantly to 19.3 ± 16.2 after 1-day post-injection and 13.2 ± 3.8 after 6 months.

Conclusion:

This study proves that transforaminal nerve block is an alternative treatment with proven efficacy and safety with quick pain relief in these patients, especially in the early phase, with immediate benefit.
Multiple synovial osteochondromatosis of the knee in a child: A case report
Authors: Vergara Alberto D. Navarro
Published: February 2023

We report a case of a child who presented with a clinical history of 11 months of progressive pain and swelling in his right knee. Osteochondromatosis is a rare diseas, whose incidence is 1/100,000. It is a synovial proliferative disease associated with cartilage metaplasia resulting in sporadic multiple intra-articular and extra-articular loose bodies. Our focus is to report a rare case of synovial osteochondromatosis in a child successfully treated with arthroscopic surgery. Due to the rarity of the case, we aimed to remind the practicing surgeons of this diagnosis and share our management.
Traumatic dissection of the anterior cerebral artery secondary to a rugby related impact: A case report with emphasis on the usefulness of T1-VISTA
Authors: Nakao Junzo , Hosoo Hisayuki , Muroi Ai , Takahashi Toshihide , Marushima Aiki , Ishikawa Eiichi , Matsumaru Yuji
Published: February 2023

Background:

Cerebrovascular injuries (CVIs) are not usually considered in the differential diagnosis of sport-related head injuries (SRHIs). We encountered a rugby player with traumatic dissection of the anterior cerebral artery (ACA) after impact on the forehead. Head magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with T1-volume isotropic turbo spin-echo acquisition (VISTA) was used to diagnose the patient.

Case Description:

The patient was a 21-year-old man. During a rugby tackle, his forehead collided with the forehead of an opponent. He did not have a headache or disturbance of consciousness immediately after the SRHI. On the 2ndday of illness, he had transient weakness of the left lower limb several times. On the 3rdday of illness, he visited our hospital. MRI revealed occlusion of the right ACA and acute infarction of the right medial frontal lobe. T1-VISTA revealed intramural hematoma of the occluded artery. He was diagnosed with acute cerebral infarction due to dissection of the ACA and was followed up for vascular changes with T1-VISTA. The vessel had recanalized and the size of the intramural hematoma had decreased 1 and 3 months after the SRHI, respectively.

Conclusion:

Accurate detection of morphological changes in cerebral arteries is important for the diagnosis of intracranial vascular injuries. When paralysis or sensory deficits occur after SRHIs, it is difficult to differentiate between concussion from CVI. Athletes with red-flag symptoms after SRHIs should not merely be suspected to have concussion; they should be considered for imaging studies.
Effects of microvascular decompression on quality-of-life in trigeminal neuralgia patients aged 70 years and older
Authors: Yoshizaki Wataru , Fujikawa Yoshiki , Torikoshi Sadaharu , Katayama Toshiro , Iwasaki Koichi , Toda Hiroki
Published: February 2023

Background:

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) occasionally affects older adults, frequently worsens, and becomes refractory to medication. Older adult patients with TN may consider microvascular decompression (MVD) for their treatment. No study examines MVD effects on older adult TN patients’ health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The present study evaluates the HRQoL of TN patients aged 70 years and older before and after MVD.

Methods:

Adult TN patients who underwent MVD evaluated their HRQoL using the 36-Item Short-form (SF-36) Health Survey before and 6 months after MVD. The patients were divided into four groups according to their decade of age. The clinical parameters and operative outcomes were analyzed statistically. The SF-36 physical, mental, and role social component summary scores and eight domain scale scores were analyzed using a twoway repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) to compare the effects of age group and preoperative and postoperative time points.

Results:

Among 57 adult patients (34 women, 23 men; mean age, 69 years; range, 30–89 years), 21 patients were in their seventies, and 11 were in their eighties. The SF-36 scores of patients in all age groups improved after MVD. Two-way repeated-measures ANOVA demonstrated a significant age group effect on the physical component summary and its physical functioning domain. A time point effect was significant on all component summaries and domains. There was a significant interaction between age group and time point effects on the bodily pain domain. These results suggested that patients 70 years and older had significant postoperative HRQoL improvement, but their improvement of physical-related HRQoL and multiple physical pain issues were limited.

Conclusion:

Impaired HRQoL in TN patients aged 70 years and older can improve after MVD. Careful management of multiple comorbidities and surgical risks enables MVD to be an appropriate treatment for older adult patients with refractory TN.
Prevalence of Chondral Lesion in Knee Arthroscopy
Authors:   Mechi Zonal Hospital, Nepal, KC Bikash , AP Lamichhane ,   Department of Orthopaedics, IOM, TU Teaching Hospital, Nepal, DP Mahara ,   Department of Orthopaedics, IOM, TU Teaching Hospital, Nepal
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Chondral lesions are painful and disabling, have a poor capacity for repair, and may predispose patients to early osteoarthritis. Chondral lesions are difficult to diagnose clinically because meniscal injuries also have similar features and clinical signs have low predictive value and specificity. Arthroscopy is the definitive modality of diagnosis. The purpose of this study is to provide a data on prevalence of chondral lesions in patients with symptomatic knees requiring arthroscopy. So that probable outcomes in terms of pain and swelling of the knee following arthroscopy can be explained to the patient. Method: This was hospital based prospective observational study. There were 75 patients (45male and 30female) of the age group 18-50 years included in this study. Patients having symptomatic knee pain were screened clinically and those fulfilling inclusion criteria were included in study. Patient profile, clinical and arthroscopic findings were recorded in proforma. Chondral lesions were graded according to Outer bridge classification system. Results: Chondral lesions were found in 49.33% (n=37) of all patients (n=75) with average age of 29 years. Most of the patients were students and average duration of symptoms was 18 months. In these patients, 60% related their current knee problem to a previous trauma. Outer bridge Grade III accounted 46% of all lesions. Of the chondral lesions, 50% were in the medial femoral condyle, 17% in patella, 16% in lateral femoral condyle and 10% in trochlea. Concomitant medial meniscus injury, anterior cruciate ligament injury or both were found in 19%, 13%and 17% of the cases respectively. Conclusion: Our study supports that articular cartilage defects are common findings in knee arthroscopy. So patients with meniscus like symptoms but not diagnostic clinically or radiologically should always have the suspicions of chondral lesion. However the findings could not be generalized because of relatively small sample size.