bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical modelling of electronic and optical properties for different sizes of CdSe/ZnS quantum dots under temperature and hydrostatic pressure effects
Authors: Brahim Tesnim , Bouazra Adel , Said Moncef
Published: June 2023

In his paper, the electronic and optical properties of different sizes of CdSe/ZnS quantum dots (QDs) are theoretically investigated. The energy eigenvalues and wave functions dependence on QD dimension, temperature and pressure are calculated by using the combination of coordinate transformation and the finite difference method (FDM). The oscillator strength, transition lifetime, absorption coefficients (AC) and refractive index changes (RIC) are brought out for various values of dots sizes, temperature, hydrostatic pressure, and incident photon intensity. The obtained results indicated that the electronic and optical properties are strongly dependent on the temperature, hydrostatic pressure and on the size of the nanostructure. The oscillator strength decreased as the hydrostatic pressure increased, but increased as the temperature increased, the opposite behavior has observed for the transition lifetime. Moreover, the total of AC and RIC increase by decreasing the incident optical intensity. Linear, nonlinear, and total AC and RIC displays a red shift (blue shift) with increasing the hydrostatic pressure (temperature).
Impact of climatic factors on temporal variability of sand fly abundance in Sri Lanka: Longitudinal study (2018 to 2020) with two-stage hierarchical analysis.
Authors: Senanayake Sanath C , Liyanage Prasad , Pathirage Dulani R.K. , Siraj M. F. Raushan , De Silva B. G. D. Nissanka Kolitha , Karunaweera Nadira D
Published: June 2023

Background
Phlebotomine sand flies serve as vectors for leishmaniasis, a major health concern, but a neglected tropical disease. The risk of vector activity is governed by climatic factors that vary in different geographic zones in the country. Thus, we aimed to quantify the effect of climatic variables on sand fly vector activity in ten sentinel sites across Sri Lanka.
Methods
Mean rainfall, ambient temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, soil temperature, evaporation, sunshine hours, and vector densities were recorded at monthly intervals in each location from March 2018 to February 2020. The association between weather variables and sand fly densities was analysed using a two-staged hierarchical procedure; Distributed Lag Non-Linear (DLNM) modelling framework and the DLNM method implemented in the R package dlnm (version number 2.4.6).
Results
Moderate rainfall values up to 120 mm per month and increasing RH up to 82 at lag of 0 months along with increasing soil temperature and evaporation rate at lag of 2 months were associated with statistically significant increase in the sand fly activity. These associations were heterogeneous across study settings. Whereas increasing ambient and soil temperature, sunshine hours, evaporation rate appeared to reduce the sand fly activity homogeneously at lag of 0 month in all the study settings.
Conclusions
The abundance of sand fly vectors varied in relation to selected climatic variables, either in real-time or with a time lag. This information can be utilized for predicting sand fly densities and for the development of effective strategies to prevent leishmaniasis transmission in specific settings.
‘Self-stigma’ of people with cutaneous leishmaniasis the unrecognized one: what do we think; what do we know; what can we prove?
Authors: Hagos Binega , Zerihun Zenawi
Published: June 2023

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) refers to a group of parasitic infections caused by the protozoan parasite Leishmania spp. Lack of knowledge and awareness regarding this disease creates a burden for patients with CL to deal with self-stigma. The aim of this ethnographic study is to provide an analysis of self-stigma experienced by patients with CL through an in-depth understanding of the self-stigma experienced by patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis. A qualitative data analysis approach was used for this study. Semi-structured interviews and participant observation were conducted with 33 individuals with CL, and data were analyzed using a thematic analysis method. Interviews revealed that individuals with CL experience severe self-stigma. The participants spoke of their struggle to live with physical appearances that differed from societal norms. Furthermore, they also highlighted that people with CL are often viewed as unclean and contagious, which further adds to their self-stigma. Fear of social exclusion often forced individuals with CL to isolate themselves, leading to a detrimental impact on their mental health and quality of life. This study provides valuable insights into the experiences of patients with CL who are subjected to self-stigma. The findings suggest that the lack of knowledge and the considerable misconceptions surrounding CL create barriers for patients to deal with the condition and the self-stigma attached to it. To address this issue, there is a need for dedicated public health campaigns and health education that increase awareness about CL and provide appropriate support and care for those affected.
Return-to-Work coordinators’ perceptions of their roles relative to workers: A discourse analysis
Authors: Hopwood Pamela , MacEachen Ellen , Crouch Meghan , Neiterman Elena , McKnight Ekaterina , Malachowski Cindy
Published: June 2023

Purpose This paper describes how Canadian Return to Work coordinators’ (RTWC) framed their job roles relative to workers in ways that went beyond the usual professional norms of helping worker recovery.Methods In-depth interviews were conducted with 47 RTWCs across Canada in 2018–2019. We used critical discourse analysis to analyze the way coordinators viewed workers in the complex, multi-stakeholder system of RTW.Results We identified four ways that RTWCs positioned themselves relative to workers: as trustworthy, experts, detectives and motivators. These roles reflected RTWCs position within the system; however, their discourse also contributed to the construction of a moral hierarchy that valued worker motivation and framed some workers as attempting to exploit the RTW system.Conclusions RTWC’s positions of power in the coordination process warrant further investigation of how they exercise judgement and discretion, particularly when the process depends on their ability to weigh evidence and manage cases in what might be seen as an objective and fair manner.
Turbulence in The Strongly Heterogeneous Near-Surface Boundary Layer over Patchy Snow
Authors: Haugeneder Michael , Lehning Michael , Stiperski Ivana , Reynolds Dylan , Mott Rebecca
Published: June 2023

The near-surface boundary layer above patchy snow cover in mountainous terrain is characterized by a highly complex interplay of various flows on multiple scales. In this study, we present data from a comprehensive field campaign that cover a period of 21 days of the ablation season in an alpine valley, from continuous snow cover until complete melt out. We recorded near-surface eddy-covariance data at different heights and investigate cospectral decompositions.The topographic setting led to the categorisation of flows into up and down valley, with most flows being thermally driven except for a Föhn event in the middle of the observation period. Our findings reveal that the snow cover fraction is a major driver for the structure and dynamics of the atmospheric layer adjacent to the snow surface. With bare ground emerging, stable internal boundary layers (SIBL) developed over the snow. As the snow coverage decreased, the depth of the SIBL decreased and cospectra of air temperature variance showed a transition towards turbulent time scales, which were caused by the intermittent advection of shallow plumes of warm air over the snow surface.In addition, our analysis of vertical profiles of turbulence kinetic energy indicates that the distribution of eddy size and, thus, the turbulence structure, did not significantly change towards the surface. However, the SIBLs caused a thermal decoupling of the atmospheric layer adjacent to the snow surface. We complement these findings by presenting high spatio-temporal resolution air temperature profiles.
Multiscale Computational Modeling of Aortic Valve Calcification
Authors: Azimi-Boulali Javid , Mahler Gretchen J. , Murray Bruce T. , Huang Peter
Published: June 2023

Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) is a common cardiovascular disease that affects millions of peopleworldwide. The disease is characterized by the formation of calcium nodules on the aortic valve leaflets,which can lead to stenosis and heart failure if left untreated. The pathogenesis of CAVD is still notwell understood, but involves several signaling pathways, including the transforming growth factorbeta (TGFβ) pathway. In this study, we developed a multiscale computational model for TGFβ-stimulated CAVD. The model framework comprises cellular behavior dynamics, subcellular signalingpathways, and tissue-level diffusion fields of pertinent chemical species, where information is sharedamong different scales. Processes such as endothelial to mesenchymal transition (EndMT), fibrosis, andcalcification are incorporated. The results indicate that the majority of myofibroblasts and osteoblastlikecells ultimately die due to lack of nutrients as they become trapped in areas with higher levels offibrosis or calcification, and they subsequently act as sources for calcium nodules, which contributeto a polydispersed nodule size distribution. Additionally, fibrosis and calcification processes occurmore frequently in regions closer to the endothelial layer where the cell activity is higher. Our resultsprovide insights into the mechanisms of CAVD and TGFβ signaling and could aid in the developmentof novel therapeutic approaches for CAVD and other related diseases such as cancer. More broadly,this type of modeling framework can pave the way for unraveling the complexity of biological systemsby incorporating several signaling pathways in subcellular models to simulate tissue remodeling indiseases involving cellular mechanobiology.
Development of a Simulation Model for Analysis, Desing and Control of a Product Package Training Platform
Authors: YILMAZ Serhat
Published: June 2023

Backgorund:
In this paper, modelling and simulation of a prototype product-box assembly automation system, which has designed for control laboratories is presented. Prototype automation systems and their mathematical models are valuable tools for control education and research. The paper describes background and working principle of the prototype system, which is modelled by Simulink, block diagrams.
Methods:
Control applications of Proportional Integral Derivative (PID, Fuzzy Inference System (FIS), Adaptive Neurofuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) methods are observed and their performances are compared.
Results:
Once mathematical model (MM) of the automation system is ensured, evidences and performances of analysis and design methods thought in the lessons could be examined by means of various control applications on the model.
The foremost contribution of the study is in the drawing out of a new teaching and development model for control engineering and the different supplied methods for an effective design of such tools.
Voltammetric determination of Hg (II) using poly (methane disulfide)/Au nanoparticle/MWCNT modified glassy carbon electrode by differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry (DPASV) technique
Authors: Ghalebi Seyedeh Mina , Parham Hooshang , Shirmardi Abbas
Published: June 2023

In the present work, surface of a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) was modified by a poly (methanedisulphide)/Au–nanoparticles/multiwall carbon nanotubes (PMDS/AuNPs/MWCNT) to improve its ability for the determination of trace mercury cations in polluted water. The produced electrode was characterized with FESEM, HR-TEM, AFM, XRD, and FT-IR techniques. The obtained results proved the successfulness of the modification process and revealed that the process had a significant effect on the morphology of the electrode and its surface roughness. EIS studies demonstrated the improvement of the electrochemical properties of the surface modified sample. Accordingly, the electrical resistance to charge transfer (Rct) of the GCE-based samples decreased from 477.1 Ohm.cm2 for the bare sample to 83.4 Ohm.cm2 for the modified-GCE sample. The modified-GCE sample was employed as an ultra-sensitive electrode for determining the concentration of Hg2+ cation based on DPASV technique. It exhibited linear behaviour for the concentration determination in the range of 5.98×10− 12 M to 1.00×10− 9M with correlation coefficient of 0.996. Limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) of the method were found 2.73×10− 13 M and 9.19×10− 13 M, respectively.
Ocular Trauma Trends during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors:   Department of Ophthalmology, Ampang Hospital, Selangor, Malaysia, Khai Wing Timothy Liew , Geng Yi Yong ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Ampang Hospital, Selangor, Malaysia, Zainal Abidin Zairah ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Ampang Hospital, Selangor, Malaysia, Asnir Zalifa Zakiah ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Ampang Hospital, Selangor, Malaysia
Published: June 2023

Background: The article aims to study the demographics and clinical characteristics of ocular trauma patients presenting to the Eye Casualty Clinic between COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 era in Ampang Hospital, Malaysia. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, data of patients presented with ocular trauma injury to the Ampang Hospital during the COVID-19 era from 18 March 2020 to 17 September 2020 were retrieved and compared with the similar period of the previous non-COVID-19 era year. Results: Among the total number of 453 patients, 76.82% (n = 348) were predominantly males. The commonest age group was between 21 years old–40 years old (49.45%, n = 224), and the commonest location of ocular trauma injury occurred at the workplace (38.19%, n = 173); welding was the commonest work-related injury (13.83% in 2019; 12.50% in 2020). Injury-to-treatment time was significantly longer during the COVID-19 era, where patients who sought treatment within a day of injury were 27.27% (n = 69) in 2019 and 18.50% (n = 37) in 2020 (P = 0.030). During the COVID-19 pandemic, patients with vision worse than 6/60 on presentation were higher at 8% compared with 3.56% before the COVID-19 pandemic (OR = 2.35; 95% CI: 1.01, 5.48; P = 0.047). Similarly, patients with a vision worse than 6/60 post-treatment during the COVID-19 period were significantly higher at 7.00% compared with 1.58% before the COVID-19 pandemic (OR = 4.72; 95% CI: 1.53, 14.62; P = 0.007). Conclusion: The majority of ocular trauma cases in this study population were male adults between 21 years old and 40 years old, and welding was the commonest work-related injury. COVID-19 era has a higher percentage of patients presented with severe visual impairment, longer injury-to-treatment time and poorer post-treatment visual outcomes.
Understanding Parental Role in Children’s Participation in Decision Making during Hospitalisation: An Ethnographic Study in Malaysia
Authors:   Kulliyyah (Faculty) of Nursing, International Islamic University Malaysia, Pahang, Malaysia, Siew Pien Lee , Haycock-Stuart Elaine ,   School of Health in Social Science, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, Atan Ashikin ,   Kulliyyah (Faculty) of Nursing, International Islamic University Malaysia, Pahang, Malaysia, Shamsuddin Nur Ainsyafinaz ,   Kuantan Medical Centre, Pahang, Malaysia
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Despite a growing recognition internationally that children have a right to participate in matters that affect their lives, they are not always involved in decision-making processes concerning their health care. There is a lack of information on how parents influence children’s participation in this decision making. This study explored the roles parents assume in processes regarding their children’s participation in communication exchanges and decision making in a paediatric oncology unit in Malaysia. Methods: This study adopted a focused ethnography design within a constructivist research paradigm. Participant observations and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 parents, 21 children and 19 nurses in a paediatric oncology unit in Malaysia. All observation fieldnotes and interview recordings were transcribed verbatim. A focused ethnographic data analysis technique was performed to analyse the data. Results: Three themes emerged regarding parents’ roles in the communication and decision-making processes involving their children: i) facilitators of communication; ii) communication brokers and iii) communication buffers. Conclusion: Parents controlled decision-making processes concerning their children, while children preferred and welcomed parents as consultants in the decision-making processes regarding their health care.
IMPLICATIONS OF CBCT IN PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY-A REVIEW
Authors:   Post Graduate Student, Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Divya Jyoti College of Dental Sciences and Research., a Shikha , Somani Rani ,   Professor and Head, Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Divya Jyoti College of Dental Sciences and Research., Yadav Jeetu ,   Post Graduate Student, Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Divya Jyoti College of Dental Sciences and Research., Khan Farhat ,   Post Graduate Student, Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Divya Jyoti College of Dental Sciences and Research., Banerjee Shubham ,   Post Graduate Student, Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Divya Jyoti College of Dental Sciences and Research., Datta Sujata ,   Post Graduate Student, Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Divya Jyoti College of Dental Sciences and Research.
Published: June 2023

The introduction of CBCT(Cone Beam Computed Tomography) devices, modified the way dentistry is practiced. CBCT was encircled into dentistry very expeditiously due to its low cost, compact size, low ionizing radiation exposure. CBCT with 3D (Three dimensional) technology is a replacement for conventional 2D (Two dimensional) imaging & has a wide application among child patients in pediatric dentistry. This article provides an overview of basics of CBCT technology & reviews the specific implications of CBCT technology to pediatric & preventive dentistry.
ULTRASOUND IN THE ETIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF MALE INFERTILITY: ABOUT 300 CASES AT THE FERTILIA MEDICAL CLINIC IN BAMAKO
Authors:   Faculte de Medecine et d Odonto-Stomatologie de Bamako (FMOS), Bamako, Mali., Dembele Mamadou , Kouma Alassane ,   Faculte de Medecine et d Odonto-Stomatologie de Bamako (FMOS), Bamako, Mali., Guindo Ilias ,   Faculte de Medecine et d Odonto-Stomatologie de Bamako (FMOS), Bamako, Mali., Sanogo Souleymane ,   Faculte de Medecine et d Odonto-Stomatologie de Bamako (FMOS), Bamako, Mali., Cheick Berete Zoumana ,   Departement dEnseignement et de Recherche en Sante Publique (DERSP), Bamako, Mali., N. Diaye Mamadou ,   Faculte de Medecine et d Odonto-Stomatologie de Bamako (FMOS), Bamako, Mali., Doumbia Brahima ,   Faculte de Medecine et d Odonto-Stomatologie de Bamako (FMOS), Bamako, Mali., Diarra Oncoumba ,   Faculte de Medecine et d Odonto-Stomatologie de Bamako (FMOS), Bamako, Mali., Traore Ousmane ,   Faculte de Medecine et d Odonto-Stomatologie de Bamako (FMOS), Bamako, Mali., Cissee Issa ,   Faculte de Medecine et d Odonto-Stomatologie de Bamako (FMOS), Bamako, Mali., Sidiki N. Diaye Aboubacar ,   Faculte de Medecine et d Odonto-Stomatologie de Bamako (FMOS), Bamako, Mali., Doucoure Badiougou ,   Clinique Medicale Fertilia., Yalcouye Youssouf ,   Clinique Medicale Fertilia., Diaman Keita Adama ,   Faculte de Medecine et d Odonto-Stomatologie de Bamako (FMOS), Bamako, Mali., Sidibe Siaka ,   Faculte de Medecine et d Odonto-Stomatologie de Bamako (FMOS), Bamako, Mali.
Published: June 2023

Objectives: To describe ultrasound lesions that may explain male-type infertility. Subjects And Methods: This was a cross-sectional, descriptive study involving 300 men collected between March 2019 and March 2022 at the Fertilia medical clinic in Bamako. The study population consisted of consenting male subjects presenting for infertility. All our patients had already undergone a spermogram, they then underwent endorectal and/or suprapubic ultrasound. Results: 300 patients were recruited in our study. The mean age was 37 years, with extremes ranging from 25 to 62 years. 136 patients (45.33%) were aged between 35 and 40. 216 patients (72%) had primary infertility. 267 patients (89%) had a sperm abnormality. 288 patients (96%) had ultrasound abnormalities. The most common pathologies were varicocele (91.66%), prostatic calcifications (3.47%), testicular calcifications (1.38%), seminal vesiculitis (1. 04%), ejaculatory duct calcifications (0.69%), unilateral cryptorchidism (0.69%), differential agenesis (0.69%), anorchidism (0.69%), epididymitis (0.69%). Conclusion:The pressing challenge in the face of male infertility is to establish an etiology in order to satisfy the couples desire to procreate. The spermogram is essential to determine the origin of the infertility, whether male or female. Ultrasound is the technique of choice for diagnosing infertility of testicular or prostato-seminal origin, and must be meticulous and well performed.
GLOBAL DNA METHYLATION IN HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS INFECTIED WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE GROUP AN EASTERN INDIAN STUDY
Authors:   Dept.of Biochemistry, S.C.B. Medical College Cuttack., Satpathy Amrita , Kumari Sahu Pratima ,   Dept.of Biochemistry, S.C.B. Medical College Cuttack., Rattan Roma ,   Joint Director, Medical Education, Bhubaneswar., Nanda Pranati ,   Dept.of Physiology AIIMS Bhubaneswar.
Published: June 2023

Purpose: DNA methylation is a novel biomarker for Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) infection amongst women to identify those progressing to pre-cancer. This study was done to see the HPV genotype distribution among the different population and find out the association between Global DNA Methylation and HPV infection. Method:300 patients participated in the study. Cervical swab was collected and analysed by Real Time Polymerase Chain reaction (RT-PCR) for HPV Genotyping study. DNA was extracted from venous blood to estimate Global DNA methylation levels. Results: Global DNA methylation levels were significantly lower in women with HPV infection than women without the infection. Global DNA hypomethylation was more predominant in unhealthy cervix group and cancer cervix and it was more prevalent in patients infected with HPV 16, HPV 18 and other high-risk strain. Conclusion: In our study we found that other high-risk genotype of HPV had the highest rate of hypomethylation followed by HPV 18 and HPV 16 in cancer Cervix. Hence from a sample of whole blood of women infected with HPV, the Global DNA hypomethylation can be assessed and used as a predictive marker for progression to Cervical Cancer.
SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE AND BODY MASS INDEX OF PATIENTS WITH PULMONARY TUBERCULOSIS AND THEIR TREATMENT OUTCOME IN A TERTIARY CARE CENTRE KERALA
Authors: Mohan Prajusha , D.K Manoj , M. Rajani , Shafeek K. Muhammad , Padmanabhan K.V
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) is a communicable disease that is a major cause of ill health and one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Several socio-demographic factors contributing towards the increasing incidence and development of TB are age, gender, socioeconomic status, smoking, alcoholism, drug addiction, living conditions, literacy, family history, overcrowding, poor sanitation, poor ventilation, malnutrition, occupation. Primary Objectives: To evaluate the socio-demographic profile and body mass index (BMI) of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis and their treatment outcome. Secondary Objectives: 1. To assess the relationship between low SES and new smear positive PTB. 2. To assess malnutrition among diagnosed PTB patients. 3. To know how malnutrition and low SES affect the treatment outcome 4. To assess nutritional status of patients before and after treatment 5. To evaluate the relationship between co morbidity and treatment outcome. Methods: This is a prospective study done in 360 new sputum-positive pulmonary tuberculosis patients attending the department of respiratory medicine, GMC Kannur over 1 year. After full filling the inclusion and exclusion criteria data was collected and the results were organized and analyzed statistically. Results: The total sample size was 360. 29.2%, belonging to 41-50 years with the male preponderance of male: female ratio = 1.7:1. Regarding the socio-demographic profile, 93.3% were natives, and 72.2% were married. 81.9% belonged to the lower caste, 94.7% had nuclear families, with small-sized families of percentage 70, and most of them, 87.2% resided in pucca houses. The majority of cases had a primary level of education and the literacy rate was only 1.9%. 43.3% of Sputum-positive patients were from low SES. Malnutrition (BMI<18.5Kg/m2) was seen in 58% of patients and there was a significant increase in BMI (p< 0.001) after treatment completion. The majority of patients had DM (38.9%).There was statistically significant clearance in CXR after treatment completion (p <0.001). It was found that DM, smoking and CXR shadows can lead to reduced sputum smear conversion and it was statistically significant with statistical significance as follows: DM Â– OR=0.367,95%CI of OR is 0.181-0.742, p-value- .004, CXR shadows: OR=0.190,95% CI of OR- 0.079-0.460, p value-0.001, current smokers: p value-0.006. Conclusion: In the current study, the majority of patients was having undernutrition (BMI<18.5Kg/m2) and low SES. The nutritional status was improved after treatment completion. Sputum smear conversion at the end of 2 months, which is a key indicator of infectivity, was affected by patients smoking status, DM, and CXR shadow. Hence, education, awareness, smoking cessation, adequate nutritional support, DM control are necessary for control of TB and for achieving the national target.
Assessment of secondary radioactive contamination of a decontaminated land plot located on the territory of a recreation base in a wooded area
Authors: Ramzaev V. P. , Barkovsky A. N.
Published: June 2023

The article presents results of a long-term (1998–2021) radiological monitoring survey of a recreation base located in a wooded area in the zone of radioactive contamination after the accident at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant. Local mechanical decontamination of the soil had been made on the territory of the base in 1997. The evaluation of the secondary radioactive contamination of the decontaminated territory was performed by comparing dynamics of the radiological situation at the treated plot and the control, nondecontaminated, part of the base according to four main criteria: 1) dose rate of gamma radiation in the air from cesium radionuclides; 2) inventory of 137Cs in soil; 3) vertical distribution of 137Cs in soil; 4) activity concentration of 137Cs in plants and fungi. In 1998, the value of the 137Cs inventory in the upper 20 cm of soil in the control part of the territory of the base and in the decontaminated plot was 930 kBq/m2 and 143 kBq/ m2, respectively. By 2015, the value of the 137Cs inventory in the control area and the decontaminated plot had significantly decreased: by 35% and 36%, respectively. A decrease in the dose rate of gamma radiation in the air at the decontaminated plot and control area proceeded at the same rate, which is currently mainly determined by the decay of 137Cs. There was a gradual self-restoration of the forest ecosystem at the plot subjected to decontamination. Activity concentration of 137Cs in biota (pine, edible mushrooms) in the treated plot was many times lower than that in the control part of the recreation base. In general, there was no significant secondary radioactive contamination of the decontaminated plot in the 24 years after the intervention.
Fotoğraf Sanatında Işığın Deneysel Yolculuğu: Luminogram
Authors: Birinci Gökhan
Published: June 2023

Fotoğrafik görüntünün belirlenmesinde en önemli etkenlerden biri ışık olgusudur. Luminogram tekniği, karanlık oda ortamında ışığın duyarlı malzemelerin üzerine doğrudan yansıtılması sonucu elde edilmektedir. Kamerasız bir yöntem olan luminogram ışığın kendisini nesne olarak kullanmaktadır. Kamerasız fotoğraf, fotoğrafik görüntü oluşturmanın en eski biçimi olmasına rağmen, çağdaş fotoğraf sanatı içinde önemli bir yere sahiptir. Işığın yönetimi, karanlıkta kalan, görünmeyen ancak var olan nesneleri ortaya çıkarırken bir yandan felsefenin diğer yandan fotoğraf sanatının konusu olmuştur. Bu anlamda ışık ve ışığa duyarlı malzemenin etkileşimi ve sonuçları László Moholy-Nagy‘den Georgy Kepes’e, Gottfried Jäger’den günümüz fotoğraf sanatçılarına kadar incelenmiştir. Bu çalışmada, ışığın yönetimi, fotoğraf tarihi içinde nasıl bir temsil aracına dönüştüğü saptanmış ve sanatçı çalışmaları üzerinden analiz edilmiştir.
Tek Karenin Cazibesi Tarkovski’nin Polaroidleri Üzerinden Sinema ve Fotoğraf İlişkisi Üzerine Yeniden Düşünmek
Authors: Köprü Mehmet
Published: June 2023

Teknik olarak fotoğrafla aynı köklere sahip olsa da gerçekçi hareket algısı ve zamansal düzenleniş sayesinde sinema güçlü bir anlatısallık kazanmıştır. Eskiden sadece küçük bir azınlık tarafından yapılabilen hareketli görüntü kaydı, teknolojik gelişmeler sayesinde günümüzde nerdeyse herkes tarafından gerçekleştirilebilmektedir. Ancak yine de zamanın dondurulmuş bir kopyasını üretebilen fotoğraftan vazgeçilememektedir. Sadece amatörler değil, film çekme şansı olan profesyoneller de fotoğraf çekmeye devam etmişlerdir. Bir taraftan filmleri üzerine çalışırken diğer taraftan fotoğraf çekmeye de devam eden Rus yönetmen Andrey Tarkovski de bu profesyonellerden biridir. Filmlerinde sinema sanatının sunduğu görsel-işitsel olanakları ileri düzeyde kullanan yönetmen, fotoğraflarını şipşak tarzının ilk örneklerinden olan Polaroid makineler işe çekmiştir. Bu durum yönetmeni, hareketli görüntünün ulaşılabilirliğine rağmen fotoğraftan vazgeçilememesinin araştırıldığı bu çalışma için ideal bir örnek haline getirmiştir. Onun Polaroid çekimlerinin, nadiren filmlerine de referanslar verilerek, bağlam, içerik, biçim ve materyal bazlı değerlendirmeleri yapılmıştır. Bu değerlendirmeler üzerinden, bir medyum olarak şipşak fotoğrafın; zamanla kurulan ilişki, punctum, şiirsellik, spontanlık ve gerçeklik gibi konularda sinemaya göre gösterdiği üstünlükler ortaya konulmuştur.
Perfil cognitivo de estudiantes con diferente nivel de conocimiento de las fracciones
Authors: Stelzer Florencia , Andrés María Laura , Comesaña Ana , Canet-Juric Lorena , Urquijo Sebastián
Published: June 2023

La comprensión de las fracciones representa un paso clave para el progresivo aprendizaje de las matemáticas. El objetivo de este estudio es identificar factores cognitivos y conocimientos matemáticos previos que permitan diferenciar y caracterizar a estudiantes de cuarto año del nivel primario que presenten dificultades, respecto de aquellos que se destaquen en la comprensión de las fracciones. Se seleccionó por disponibilidad a una muestra de 135 estudiantes de cuarto año de la educación primaria de la provincia de Buenos Aires, Argentina (66 mujeres; M edad= 9.3; DE=0.42). Se consideraron como variables predictoras las capacidades de memoria de trabajo verbal y visoespacial, inhibición perceptual, inteligencia fluida y división de números naturales. Para alcanzar el objetivo se establecieron dos grupos de estudiantes que representaban los niveles extremos en la comprensión de las fracciones: (a) grupo con dificultades en la comprensión (n=35), compuesto por estudiantes con puntuaciones iguales o inferiores a p25 en una tarea de fracciones; y (b) grupo que se destaca en la comprensión (n=39), conformado por estudiantes que presentan puntuaciones iguales o superiores a p75 en dicha tarea. La función discriminante indicó que ambos grupos de alumnos se caracterizan por presentar rendimientos diferenciales en las capacidades de inteligencia fluida, memoria de trabajo y división. De estas variables, la inteligencia mostró la mayor contribución para la discriminación de los grupos, seguida por la capacidad de división y memoria de trabajo. Se discuten las implicaciones de estos resultados para la enseñanza de las fracciones.
Działalność na rzecz małżeństwa jako działalność pożytku publicznego
Authors: Poniatowski Michał
Published: June 2023

Przedmiotowy artykuł odnosi się do zagadnienia działalności na rzecz mał- żeństwa jako działalności pożytku publicznego. W pierwszej kolejności przedstawiono aspekt podmiotowy powyższego zagadnienia. W części pierwszej wskazano na katalog podmiotów, które mogą prowadzić tego typu działalność. W następnej kolejności odnie- siono się do aspektu przedmiotowego. Analizie została poddana możliwość zakwalifi- kowania działalności na rzecz małżeństwa w ramach działalności pożytku publicznego. Analiza dotyczy zarówno małżeństwa świeckiego jak i kanonicznego. Ostatni aspekt merytoryczny dotyczy aspektu formalnego. W tej części artykułu przedstawiono wymogi kwalifikacji takiej działalności jako działalności pożytku publicznego. W ostatniej części artykułu zawarto wnioski końcowe.
Investigation of the complexities inherent in manufacturing near-unconstrained superplastic parts by experiments and simulation
Authors: Ferguson B.
Published: June 2023

Abstract. Superplastic forming is a sheet metal forming process that has found widespread use in the aerospace industry. It produces parts that are free of residual stresses, dimensionally accurate, and with strains unobtainable using conventional forming methods. When combined with diffusion bonding, a phenomena where under similar processing conditions the material involved will produce a near flawless weld with itself, a variety of reinforcements and internal structures can be produced. In most superplastic parts the material is blow formed up to a die and the material takes on the dimensions of the die with small variations in thicknesses. In this work, however, we investigate a process unique to superplastic forming with diffusion bonding using four sheets. The two outer sheets are formed up to the die while the two inner sheets form a complex sandwich structure. These inner sheets are completely unsupported except at the edges of the part. Superplasticity is stress-history dependent and somewhat chaotic in nature. Therefore, the inner sheets have a large variance in geometry due to the fact that they have only limited constraints and are free to shift and translate as the forming operation progresses. Without rigid constraints on the inner sheets small variations in geometry can be magnified to create large changes in final geometry. The variances in forming are quantified using a variety of techniques to measure the major features of the process including cell wall measurements, gas pathway measurements, and computer vision-based geometry analysis. Two- and three-dimensional finite element simulations of the inner sheet forming process were used to compare the characterization results with idealized geometry. The results of the analysis provide insights into the complexities of manufacturing such internal structures.
Formation mechanism and elimination method for surface groove of the hollow lattice structure by superplastic forming
Authors: Mu Y.
Published: June 2023

Abstract. The titanium alloy hollow lattice structures can be widely applied on the advanced aircrafts due to their excellent mechanical properties and light weight. Superplastic forming and diffusion bonding (SPF/DB) process is an advanced process to manufacture these hollow lattice structures with two outer plates and one inner hollow plate. To further decrease the weight of the structures, thinner outer plate is preferred when compared with the inner plate, however, it would result in the occurrence of surface groove at the intersects between the outer plate and the hollow stiffener during superplastic forming process, leading to the failure of the structures. In this paper, the formation characteristics of the surface groove and the influence of the outer/inner sheet thicknesses on the occurrence of surface grooves was investigated through a well-developed finite element model. Furthermore, an innovative method was presented to eliminate the surface groove during SPF/DB, which makes use of double-sided dynamically adjusted gas pressure on the inner and outer of the plate during superplastic forming process. Based on the developed numerical models, the effects of assistant outer gas pressure parameters on groove formation have been investigated. The effectiveness of the proposed new forming method and the optimized parameters have been validated by performing a SPF/DB forming tests of a typical lattice structures. The method developed in this study provides a new way to improve the forming quality and accuracy of hollow parts by SPF/DB.
Predicting ECAP misorientation evolution and its influence on superplasticity for an Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy
Authors: Carreño F.
Published: June 2023

Abstract. Extensive research on severe plastic deformation (SPD) of metallic materials has been performed so far in order to improve mechanical properties, both at low and high temperatures. As a result of the extensive grain refinement obtained, increased superplastic behaviour has been attained at higher strains rates and lower temperatures than usual. This is due to finer grain sizes and higher average misorientations obtained, which enhance grain boundary sliding (GBS). However, the misorientation effect on superplasticity, and the prediction of misorientation evolution during SPD has remained so far, qualitative. In this research, especial attention has been given to the quantitative misorientation evolution with increasing equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) deformation, in order to propose an expression useful to describe and predict the influence of the different processing parameters on the misorientation evolution with strain. This is exemplified for ECAPed Al-Zn-Mg-Cu and other aluminium alloys, and it could serve as a basis for predicting the misorientation evolution, and its influence on superplasticity, of other SPD processes and metallic alloys.
Mechanical behavior and microstructure evolution of Ti-6.5Al-2Zr-1Mo-1V/TiB metal-matrix composites during deformation
Authors: OZEROV M.
Published: June 2023

Abstract. The Ti-6.5Al-2Zr-1Mo-1V/TiB metal-matrix composites with different amounts of TiB reinforcements (~2.0, 6.0 and 10.0 vol. %) were produced by vacuum arc melting. The initial microstructure of the synthesized composites composed of two-phase α+β matrix with embedded boride particles. The addition of borides resulted in 15-35% increase in strength without a visible drop in ductility. The alloy with the highest amount of the reinforcement attained yield strength of 1100 MPa, peak strength of 1670 MPa and compression ductility of 10 % at room temperature. Microstructure evolution during hot compression was associated with dynamic recrystallization of the matrix and rearrangement/shortening of TiB fibers. The composite with 10.0 vol. % of TiB demonstrated noticeably higher strength at elevated temperatures in comparison with non-reinforced alloy.
Investigation of the influence of kinematic asymmetry on the properties of laminated materials
Authors: BIRYUKOVA O.D.
Published: June 2023

Abstract. Trend of simultaneous improvement of such mechanical metal properties as strength, hardness and ductility remains popular. Asymmetric accumulative roll bonding is a method of severe plastic deformation that can create large shear deformations. These deformations in its turn are responsible for increase of mechanical properties. Initially computer modeling was carried out to study the influence of kinematic asymmetry parameters on the stress-strain state of laminated aluminum composites. For the study, such combinations of aluminum alloys as 5083/1070, 5083/2024, 6061/1070, 6061/2024 were considered. As a result of a numerical study, the conditions for obtaining high values of shear deformation, which affects the increase in mechanical properties in laminated aluminum composites, are determined. Experimental confirmation of the simulation results was carried out on a unique asymmetric rolling mill 400 installed in NMSTU. As the final stage of work, the development of rational technological schemes and regimes of cold and warm asymmetric accumulative roll bonding of laminated aluminum composites was carried out. The study showed a simultaneous increase in the strength and technological plasticity of received products, which differ in the ratio of total equivalent deformations and shear angles during at least 2 cycles of asymmetric accumulative roll bonding. It is shown that with an increase in value of the speed rolls ratio at the same inter-roll gap, the relative reduction increases, and the rolling force decreases by a factor of 2 (compared with these parameters at equal speeds of the work rolls). It is supposed to use such composites in space and automotive industries.
Village Governance in Realizing Excellent Service in Jumantuang Village, Siempat Nempu District, Dairi Regency
Authors:   Department of Civic and Pancasila Education, University of State Medan, Indonesia, Ivanna Julia
Published: June 2023

This study aims to determine Village Governance in Realizing Excellent Service in Jumantuang Village, Siempat Nempu District, Dairi Regency. Its governance is one part of realizing excellent service provided by village government officials. The research method used by researchers is descriptive qualitative research methods. Data collection tools used were observation and interviews and documentation. The data analysis technique used was qualitative data analysis techniques. This technique functions to process qualitative data and analyze data that has been obtained from the results of observations and interviews related to village governance in realizing excellent service. Narrative data obtained from interviews and observations are interpreted for further analysis. So in qualitative research, data analysis must start from the beginning. The results showed that its governance in realizing excellent service in Jumantuang Village has gone well. Jumantuang Village, as a public servant has served the community well and refers to the four characteristics of excellent service, namely by providing easy and fast, open services, in accordance with what the community needs, and implementing a familiarity with the community in Jumantuang Village. So that, the service in the community can be said to be better than before. The hope is that the government and the community can establish good cooperation in the success of service activities within Jumantuang Village.
Public Service Quality in Administration in Kalidoni Kelurahan Office, Palembang City
Authors:   Candradimuka University, Asteriniah Femi
Published: June 2023

The purpose of holding this research is to see the service quality of the Kalidoni Urban Village Office, Palembang City, the supporting and inhibiting factors of service at the Kalidoni Village Office, Palembang City. Quality public service or what is commonly referred to as excellent service is the best service that meets service quality standards. To see the quality of service that is actually perceived by consumers, there are indicators of service quality that lie in the five dimensions of service quality, namely: physical evidence or physical evidence, reliability or reliability, responsiveness or response, assurance or assurance, empathy. Empathy This research uses a qualitative approach with a descriptive level of explanation. Data or information is collected through informant interviews. The type of data used in this study is included in the type of qualitative data obtained from interviews with informants, as well as in documents, documents, journals and other literature relevant to this research. The data techniques used include interviews, observation and documentation. The data analysis technique used in this study is an analysis using an interactive model which includes three components of the analysis, namely reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results showed that based on the Tangible dimension (physical evidence), the availability of facilities and infrastructure to support the convenience of services such as waiting rooms, parking lots, toilets, prayer rooms, suggestion boxes, and service counters at the Kalidoni Village Office, Palembang City Based on the dimension of reliability, service procedures are a little indifferent due to improper turnaround time. Based on the dimension of Responsiveness, officers do not give a positive response to community complaints, and there is no follow-up to the criticisms and suggestions submitted. Based on the dimension of Assurance, there is still a delay in the process of completing the services provided that are not in accordance with the existing Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) because there are still people who do not complete the required requirements, so they are required to complete these requirements to be able to continue the procedure. Emphaty dimension (Empathy), the lack of attention given by the officers and the lack of hospitality received by the community are complaints that are often raised by the public.
Relevance of Social Capital and Community Participation in The “Karya Sakti” BUMDES Program in Lubuk Sakti Indralaya
Authors:   STISIPOL CANDRADIMUKA, Turania Konita , Prihatini Lishapsari , Austin Trecy , Mayriesta Dita
Published: June 2023

The Establishment of BUMDes is intended as a joinf effort between the village government, in order to developthe economic potential of the village and community welfare. This study is to analyse the effect of social capital on community Participation in Lubuk Sakti Village, IndralayaDistrict. The theory used is the theory of social capital proposed by Bourdie, Fukuyama, and Hasbullah. The Overall research time is from July to October 2021. The Population Characteristics are individuals aged 25-40 years in Lubuk Sakti Village. The sampling technique used is random sampling, the research sample is 117 respondents from 3 hamlets, 10% of each total population is taken. After the data is obtained, it is analyzed using the SPSS 25.00 software application. The results showed that there was a positive relationship between Social Capital and Community Participation in BUMDes. Then based on the SPSS 25 table,the 2 – tailed significant difference between the two variables.
Competent and Qualified Personnel and Service Delivery at the Local Government Level in Nigeria: A Conceptual Review
Authors:   Gombe State University, Nigeria, Bello Matthew Funsho , Mackson Abga Maina
Published: June 2023

This paper examined the concept of competent and qualified personnel and service delivery at the local government level in Nigeria. One of the core reasons for the creation of local government in almost all countries of the world is to provide goods and services to the local population. Unfortunately, this third tier of government has performed abysmally in meeting the felt needs of those in their jurisdictions and this has been a major concern to public policy makers and various stakeholders. The method used to obtain data was through the secondary sources, findings suggest that service delivery at the local government level in Nigeria has been very poor due to lack of competent and qualified personnel, the resultant effect has been lack of accountability and transparency. Service delivery at the local government’s level suffered neglect because of institutional weakness and lack of competent and qualified personnel. Paradoxically, poor services are the social vices bedeviling the Nigerian society of which local governments is charged with the responsibility of mitigating; hence for the local government to perform its statutory function of service delivery efficiently, there must be a complete autonomy of local government both administratively and fiscally; and for service delivery to be realistic. There must be competent and qualified personnel with expertise through regular workshops, seminars and training for capacity building.