bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Caractéristiques et propriétés des acajous (Swietenia et Khaya)
Authors: Normand Didier , Sallenave P.
Published: August 2024

L'appellation " acajou " recouvre plusieurs espèces botaniques, appartenant aux genres Swietenia et Khaya, présentes dans les régions tropicales américaines et africaines. Le regroupement de ces différentes espèces sous un nom commun s'explique par la similitude de leurs propriétés physiques et mécaniques. Les auteurs décrivent les résultats d'essais comparatifs réalisés au Centre Technique Forestier Tropical. Ces essais confirment que les mahoganys américains et africains forment bien un groupe homogène.
Pinus merkusii. Caractères sylvicoles et méthodes de plantation
Authors: Jungh  , De Vriese
Published: August 2024

Pinus merkusii. Caractères sylvicoles et méthodes de plantation.
The Analysis of Local Culture in the Indonesian ELT Textbook for Junior High School
Authors: Vanila Rista , Ariyanto Sugeng , Suharjito Bambang
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to analyze the representation of local culture in the government published ELT textbook for Junior High School student. Cultural diversity has become the issue related to the use of English that plays a great role to categorize English speakers and English varieties (Shin, Eslami and Chen, 2011). The integration of cultural values in ELT materials have been studied for years. Culture has become an important role in language teaching and learning, because it is believed that language cannot be taught to learners without its cultural elements. Textbook as one of the material that is highly used among English learners might represent the racial diversity and cultural background, therefore it is important to analyze how and what kind of cultural elements are being represented to the learners on the textbook.
Reading Habits from the Perspective of Diverse Socioeconomic Status
Authors: Holidiya Hani , Putra Bambang Arya Wija , Tasnim Zakiyah
Published: August 2024

Research has presented different results on students’ reading habits concerning their socioeconomic status. The present study focuses on reading habits regarding the socioeconomic status of Indonesian EFL students to examine whether socioeconomic status represents students’ reading habits. An online survey was conducted to observe the EFL students, followed by descriptive analysis to examine the data. This study categorizes students’ socioeconomic status and reading habits level into three categories, namely high, middle, and low, to enable the researcher to determine whether there is a correlation between the two aspects. Based on the data gathered from the survey, it is found that students’ reading habits are not always inferred by their socioeconomic status. Among 230 participants, 27% were from high socioeconomic status families, 59% of the students were from middle socioeconomic status, and the remaining 14% were from low socioeconomic status. Besides categorizing students’ socioeconomic status, this research found that even students with the same socioeconomic status have various reading habits. Further research on reading habits among siblings is suggested to gain more detailed information on whether socioeconomic status represents students’ reading habits.
The Effect of Using Kahoot! Application on Junior High School Students’ Vocabulary Achievement in Jember
Authors: Afi Aufa , Tasnim Zakiyah , Fardhani Aan Erlyana
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this research was testing whether or not Kahoot! Application has a significant effect on students’ vocabulary achievement. Thus, a quasi-experimental research design was applied. This research conducted this study on September – October 2023 and involved 68 students as the sample participants. They were divided into two groups, experimental and control groups. Those classes did vocabulary exercise that given by the researcher. Each exercise asked the students to find the English meaning of certain words. The different of those groups was the treatment. In experimental group, Kahoot! Application was used as the treatment, while the control group did the vocabulary exercises by using regular paper. After did the treatment for three times, each groups had a post-test in the form of multiple-choice. Based on the post-test result, the experimental group got a mean score of 94.65 and 90.26 for the control group. Then, the researcher used SPSS to analyze the data by employing an independent sample t-test to make a valid conclusion. The result showed that the value of Sig. 2-tailed was 0.04, which was lower than 0.05. It could be stated that there was a significant difference between the experimental and the control groups. Therefore, the Kahoot! Application can be used as teaching media for learn vocabulary.
Enxu Queimado
Authors: Antunes Joelma
Published: August 2024

Com a emergência das mudanças climáticas e os inúmeros problemas socioambientais que vêm afetando de forma distintas todas as existências, humanas e não humanas, que coabitam o planeta (Haraway, 2021), muitos países têm mobilizado suas agendas em torno da busca por uma transição energética, que tenha fontes matrizes renováveis como é o caso das energias hidráulica, solar e eólica, que podem contribuir com a redução da emissão de carbono e gases do efeito estufa. Portando o rótulo de energias limpas, uma das grandes contradições que permeiam esse contexto se refere às formas sujas com que esses grandes empreendimentos se implementam nos territórios e comunidades tradicionais, ocupando grandes extensões com suas usinas eólicas, solares e linhas de transmissão, que desrespeitam os modos de vida ali existentes.
Exploratory survey study on adjunctive use of medical cannabis for Gaucher disease
Authors: Berman Yehoshua , Ely Robin , Scher Yosef Y. , Weinreb Neal J.
Published: August 2024

Aims : Using an investigator-designed survey tool to confirm that adult patients with type 1 Gaucher disease (GD1) often self-prescribe cannabis products to try to alleviate symptoms such as lingering fatigue, chronic bone and joint pain, loss of energy, anxiety, and depression that persist despite enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) or substrate restriction therapy (SRT). Additionally, to explore whether patient reports of symptom relief and adverse side effects relate to frequency and duration of cannabis use.

Methods : We conducted an anonymous, cross-sectional questionnaire study to elicit GD1 patient-reported experiences with cannabis used to alleviate symptoms they attributed to their underlying disease. Eligible participants included individuals with GD1 aged ≥ 18 years, regardless of sex, gender, country of residence, ethnicity, state of health or GD1 treatment status. The questions included basic socio-demography (n = 9), GD diagnosis and pre-treatment signs and symptoms (n = 16), GD treatment information (n = 9), current GD symptoms (n = 12), concurrent manifestations of Parkinson’s disease (n = 6), details of cannabis use (n = 24), perceived effect of cannabis on symptoms (n = 13), and interest in participating in future studies (n = 2).

Results: 159 GD1 adults (81.5% US) responded to advertisements on patient online sites or to informational posts in advocacy group newsletters. The most frequent pre-treatment symptoms were fatigue (83.8%), bone or joint pain (79.7%), and bleeding problems (73.0%). Hemostasis substantially improved, but pain, achiness, fatigue, and anxiety often persisted. Sixty-two respondents (39%) reported very heterogeneous cannabis use. There was a positive association between the severity of persistent symptoms and the likelihood of cannabis use. Cannabis users reported improvements in muscle pain (84.3%), bone pain (82.4%), joint pain (82.4%), anxiety (70.6%), and general achiness (66.7%). However, moderate and extreme bone manifestations, fatigue, breathing problems, memory loss, and episodic dyscoordination were more prevalent among frequent users of inhaled cannabis than among non-users.

Conclusion: Our results justify further investigations to determine the efficacy and safety of cannabis specifically for GD1 patients. Although randomized controlled trials would be optimal, well-designed observational GD registry studies may be a more practical approach. Although some patients may be reluctant to talk openly with their doctors about cannabis, they should routinely be queried about such use by primary care physicians and GD specialists who, in turn, must be able to provide informed guidance on safety, dosage, and potential interactions with other medications the patient is using.
Functional reliability of means of fixation for complex pelvic fractures. Part 2. Experimental studies under static loads
Authors: Dyman Marianna , Shydlovskyi Mykola , Laksha Andriy , Fomin Oleksandr
Published: August 2024

Fracture fixation devices should ensure reliable fixation of bone fragments, preventing their mutual displacement during transportation and treatment of patients. Today, in traumatology and orthopedics, two methods of fixation are used to fix complex fractures of the pelvic bones caused by high-velocity wounding projectiles: parallel insertion of spongy screws (osteosynthesis of the posterior pelvic ring) and stabilization with a rod apparatus of external fixation and fixation by means of reinforced with application of extramedullary reconstructive plate (osteosynthesis of the anterior pelvic ring). The anterior pelvis is stabilized more often because this technique is simpler, does not require much time and high qualification of the surgeon. However, this method of fixation does not provide sufficient stability of the connection of the pelvic ring bone fragments. For further improvement of the configuration of fixation systems, it is necessary to conduct comparative experimental studies of the stiffness and stability of fixation on natural specimens under real types and levels of loads with modeled damage to the anterior and posterior parts of the pelvic ring. This work is devoted to the study of the characteristics of stiffness and reliability of fixation of complex pelvic fractures with pelvic ring damage under static loads. A methodology for determining the deformation characteristics was developed and full-scale studies of fixation devices for complex pelvic fractures were performed. The processes of occurrence and development of mutual displacements of fracture points under tension and bending were studied.
“Santas e Veneráveis Mãos” Algumas questões sobre a forma de comungar
Authors: Reis Daniel
Published: August 2024

Este artigo investiga a forma ritual para se receber a Comunhão Eucarística na Missa do rito Católico Apostólico Romano. Após uma consideração inicial sobre a importância da forma para a revelação do conteúdo, traça um panorama histórico sobre a genuína forma de comungar (nas mãos), a deformação na Idade Média (diretamente na boca) e a reforma, com o Concílio Vaticano II, da modalidade ritual mais antiga. Apresenta, ainda, uma crítica aos grupos radicais que exigem a Comunhão diretamente na língua, mas que incitam a divisão na Igreja com discursos odientos e mentirosos, gerando “descomunhão”.
“É duro ser governado por um inferior” (DK 68 B 49): pensar o político a partir de Demócrito
Authors: Veliq Fabrício
Published: August 2024

O presente artigo visa apresentar, de maneira geral, a relação existente entre o pensamento ético e a atuação política em Demócrito. Para tal, dividimos nosso texto em três partes. Na primeira apresentamos em linhas gerais como, de acordo com o pensamento democritiano, a sociedade humana se forma. Num segundo momento, abordamos brevemente traços gerais da psicologia democritiana, ressaltando a importância da alma para a ética de Demócrito. Por fim, apontamos algumas características encontradas no pensamento de Demócrito que nos ajudam a compreender como deve ser a ação política do ser humano sábio na sociedade e, em contrapartida, o malefício que temos ao ser governado por um inferior.
Reflexão sobre a Música a partir da Querela dos Bufões
Authors: Teixeira Mauro Miguel de Araújo
Published: August 2024

Este trabalho tem a intenção de apresentar a reflexão filosófica sobre a música realizada por Jean-Philippe Rameau (1683-1764) e Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778). Inicialmente, será contextualizado o cenário musical presente na França e na Itália entre os séculos XVII e XVIII. Em seguida, a pesquisa tratará de examinar filosoficamente as distintas concepções e ideias dos nossos personagens acerca da música. Esse exame será feito de forma particular em cada um dos autores – Rameau e Rousseau. Contextualizaremos, ainda, o debate elaborado no campo musical com outro debate em que a natureza da questão do conflito se fazia presente da mesma forma em outro campo artístico. Por fim, focaremos no conflito direto que foi estabelecido entre os personagens, expondo suas críticas e ideias a fim de demonstrar a tensão entre dois tipos diferentes de racionalidades presentes numa reflexão filosófica sobre a música.
Plant-mediated bimetallic nanoparticles synthesis for catalytic degradation of malachite green
Authors: Bairwa Preeti , Devra Vijay
Published: August 2024

Nanotechnology, an innovative field focused on nanosized materials, is combined with plant biotechnology through the green chemical strategy of synthesizing plant-induced nanoparticles (NPs). Synthesizing these NPs through novel, cost-effective, and eco-friendly methods plays a significant role in degrading and eliminating organic pollutants. The presence of dangerous biological agents and chemicals in water that surpass the standard threshold and could potentially impact human health and the environment is called water pollution. In the current study, we synthesized copper–silver bimetallic nanoparticles (BMNPs) using a novel, robust, and inexpensive method with leaf broth of Azadirachta indica as both the reducing and capping agent. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy investigations were used to examine the morphology of the synthesized BMNPs, and results indicate that synthesized NPs are in spherical core–shell morphology with a size of 20 nm. Research using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy indicates that the capping and stabilization of NPs are achieved by the presence of bioactive functional groups including phenolic, amines, and aromatic ring. The activities of synthesized Cu–Ag NPs in degradation of malachite green (MG) dye were tested by the advanced oxidation process using peroxomonosulfate (PMS) as an oxidant. Activation parameters were computed, and pseudo first-order kinetics were used to describe the degradation of MG in the BMNPs/PMS system. Under optimal reaction conditions, the BMNPs/PMS system achieved a maximum MG degradation efficiency of 81% within 50 minutes. The results of the work promise excellent environmental safety for water systems against dye pollution.
Environment Mapping Based Classification for Reverse Engineering Using Supervised Learning
Authors: Lim Sukhyun
Published: August 2024

With the widespread adoption of 3D scanners, reverse engineering methods for obtaining CAD drawings from physical objects have become increasingly utilized. When converting point data obtained from a 3D scanner into a mesh structure, a smoothing process is typically applied because the point data often contains a lot of noise. However, this can result in the loss of important high-frequency details, or in cases where significant high-frequency information remains, there are limitations in representing the object with basic geometric shapes. In this paper, a method to address this issue by using environment mapping and supervised learning techniques is proposed. By mapping the object to an environment and then using supervised learning to analyze the data, it can accurately identify the basic geometric shapes. This approach reduces the working time and allows for easier design of complex surfaces that were previously difficult to model.
R2R3 MYB Transcription Factor GhMYB201 Promotes Cotton Fiber Elongation via Cell Wall Loosening and Very-Long-Chain Fatty Acid Synthesis
Authors: Suo Qingwei , Fang Nianjuan , Zeng Jianyan , Yan Fulin , Zhu Xi , Wang Yi , Yu Wanting , Chen Junmin , Liang Aimin , Li Yaohua , Kong Jie , Xiao Yuehua
Published: August 2024

Cotton fiber is the leading natural textile material, and fiber elongation plays an essential role in the formation of cotton yield and quality. Although a wealth of components in the molecular network controlling cotton fiber elongation have been reported, a lot of players still need to be functionally dissected to understand the regulatory mechanism of fiber elongation comprehensively. In the present study, an R2R3-MYB transcription factor gene, GhMYB201, was characterized and functionally verified via CRISPR/Cas9 mediated gene editing. GhMYB201 was homologous to Arabidopsis AtMYB60, and both coding genes (GhMYB201At and Dt) were preferentially expressed in elongating cotton fibers. Knocking-out of GhMYB201 significantly reduced the rate and duration of fiber elongation, resulting in shorter and coarser mature fibers. It was found that GhMYB201 could bind and activate the transcription of cell wall loosening genes (GhRDLs), and also β-ketoacyl-CoA synthase (GhKCSs) genes to enhance very-long-chain fatty acid (VLCFA) levels in elongating fibers. Taken together, our data demonstrated that the transcription factor GhMYB201s play essential roles in promoting fiber elongation via activating genes related to cell wall loosening and VLCFA biosynthesis.
Telomere Length and Telomerase in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: An Update and a Reappraisal of the Evidence
Authors: Rajkumar Ravi Philip
Published: August 2024

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a mental disorder caused by exposure to traumatic stress, affects 5-10% of the world’s population. PTSD is associated with several medical and neurological comorbidities. It has been suggested that these are due to accelerated aging, and that changes in telomere length (TL) and telomerase enzyme activity may serve as biomarkers of this process. Early research in this field suggested that TL was significantly reduced in PTSD. The current review was conducted to provide a critical analysis of recent clinical and translational research on telomere length and telomerase in PTSD. The results of 26 clinical studies suggest that TL in PTSD is highly variable, and may be influenced by methodological, demographic, trauma-related and psychosocial factors. There is no evidence for altered telomerase activity in PTSD, though this was hypothesized by earlier workers in the field. Translational research suggests that exposure to traumatic stress does lead to TL shortening. Overall, it is likely that TL in PTSD depends on several variables that are specific to individuals and groups. Other markers of cellular aging, such as epigenetic changes, may be more specific indices of accelerated aging in patients with PTSD.
Evaluation of Magnetron Sputtered TiAlSiN-Based Thin Films as Protective Coatings for Tool Steel Surfaces
Authors: Lungu Magdalena Valentina , Tălpeanu Dorinel , Ciobanu Romeo Cristian , Cojocaru Anca , Pătroi Delia , Marinescu Virgil , Caramitu Alina Ruxandra
Published: August 2024

Steel surface protection with hard coatings is essential in the metalworking industry, yet developing high-performance hard coatings still remains a challenge. Quaternary nitride coatings, particularly TiAlSiN, have been extensively studied, but commercial TiAlSiN coatings vary widely, and there is a lack of consistent data. This study presents findings on the development and evaluation of TiAlSiN and TiAlSiN/TiN thin films, with an 800 nm thick TiAlSiN top coating and a 100 nm thick TiN mid-coating. The films were deposited on C120 tool steel discs via reactive DC magnetron sputtering. Ti and TiAlSi 75–20–5 (at.%) disc-shaped targets (50.8 mm diameter × 6.3 mm thickness), fabricated by our team through spark plasma sintering, were used for the sputtering process. Coatings were grown on smooth steel substrates heated to 300 °C, resulting in a uniform micro-structure with nanoparticles of globular (TiN) or pyramidal shape (TiAlSiN), as evidenced by SEM analysis. Nanoindentation tests showed superior mechanical properties for all coatings compared to the steel substrate. Micro-scratch tests indicated better scratch resistance for TiAlSiN/TiN bilayer (BL) coatings than for TiAlSiN single-layer (SL) coatings. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy tests in a 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution revealed that the BL coatings demonstrated superior corrosion resistance compared to the SL coatings, even after thermal aging at 800 °C for 1 hour. The superior properties of the synthesized TiAlSiN/TiN films recommend them as protective coatings for tool steel surfaces.
External Moderation of Reactor Core Neutrons for Optimized Production of Ultra-Cold Neutrons
Authors: Medlin Graham , Korobkina Ekaterina , Teander Cole Gresham , Wehring Bernard , Sharapov Eduard , Hawari Ayman I. , Huffman Paul , Young Albert R. , Palmquist Grant , Morano Matthew , Hickman Clark , Rao Thomas , Golub Robert
Published: August 2024

The Ultra-Cold Neutron (UCN) source being commissioned at North Carolina State Universityâs PULSTAR reactor is uniquely optimized for UCN production in the former graphite-filled thermal column outside of the reactor pool. The source utilizes a remote moderation design which is particularly well suited to the PULSTAR reactor on account of its large thermal and epithermal neutron leakage from the core face. This large non-equilibrium flux from the core is efficiently transported to the UCN source through the specially designed beam port in order to optimize UCN production at any given reactor power. The increased distance to the source from the core also greatly limits the heat load on the cryogenic system. A MCNP model of this system was developed and is in good agreement with gold foil activation measurements using a mock-up setup as well as with the real UCN source heavy water moderator. These results established a firm baseline for estimates of the cold neutron flux available for UCN production and prove that remote moderation in a thermal column port is a valuable option for future designs of cryogenic UCN sources.
Statistical Modelling of Football Players’ Transfer Fees Worldwide
Authors: Poli Raffaele , Besson Roger , Ravenel Loïc
Published: August 2024

Billions of euros are invested every year by professional football clubs for the recruitment of players. This article presents the latest advances in the statistical modelling of the factors that market actors take into consideration to determine the transfer prices of professional football players. It extends to a global scale the econometric approach previously developed by the authors to evaluate the transfer prices of players under contract with clubs from the five major European leagues. The statistical technique used to build the model is multiple linear regression (MLR), with fees paid by clubs as an independent variable. The sample comprises over 8000 transactions of players transferred for money from clubs worldwide during the period stretching from July 2014 to March 2024. This paper shows that a statistical model can explain almost 85% of the differences in the transfer fees paid for players. Despite the specific cases and other possible distortions mentioned in the discussion, the use of a statistical model to determine player transfer prices seems highly relevant.
Six Dimension for Proof of Riemann Hypothesis
Authors: mousavi seyed kazem
Published: August 2024

In this paper, Riemann’s hypothesis is proved based on the golden ratio and eccentricity of the ellipse in six dimensions. The proof of Riemann’s hypothesis affects all fields of science. In this article, logical and mathematical rules are proposed for the distribution, identification and classification of prime numbers. The prime numbers are the product of the complex conjugate of five prime numbers in dimensions. Also, even numbers and... are also classified based on prime numbers. Based on the findings of this research, identifying the properties and laws related to prime numbers establishes a deep connection between quantum mechanics and general relativity.
Evaluation and Prototype of Health Counseling LLM Using the Turing Test
Authors: Nakamura Kenji , Tatsuoka Hisato , Miyakawa Takuya , Ishii Hideki , Onishi Masahiro , Ohyama Yoshiaki
Published: August 2024

In 2021, Japan's medical expenses will exceed 45 trillion yen, and the shortage of doctors, especially in remote and mountainous areas, is becoming serious, making it difficult to maintain the medical system. We have conducted a study of 800 health consultation text data. We developed an on-premise health counseling LLM system by constructing a dialogue flow based on 800 health counseling text data. We conducted a Turing test of this system using 200 test data and verified its effectiveness with three medical professionals. The Turing test was a comparison experiment between this system and a conventional LLM system. The health counseling LLM infrastructure focuses on exercise guidance and analyzes gender, height, weight, body fat percentage, and muscle mass. While the accuracy of the conventional LLM system was 87.5%, this system showed a higher accuracy of 93.1%. Although telemedicine has been slow to spread in Japan, the introduction of a health consultation system using Personal Health Record and Large Language Models has the potential to reduce the burden on physicians. In the future, we aim to improve the accuracy of the system by using Japanese language and medical-specific evaluation scales.
Evaluation of Corrosion Resistance of 904L Composite Plate in High Temperature and High Pressure Gas Field Environment
Authors: Wang Shuai , Mei Ping , Chang Lijing , Wu Chao , Chen Shaoyun , Chen Qingguo , Li Guangshan
Published: August 2024

In order to study the corrosion resistance of 904L composite plate pressure vessel under high temperature and high pressure gas field environment, the pitting corrosion and stress corrosion cracking resistance of 904L composite plate body and weld material were compared with those of 2205 composite plate and 825 composite plate, which have been used in high temperature and high pressure gas field environment. The results showed that the pitting resistance of 904L composite plate was lower than that of 825 composite plate and higher than that of 2205 solid solution pure material plate and 2205 composite plate. The corrosion resistance of welds on 904L composite plate with different materials was very different. The corrosion rate of 904L composite plate body, welding seam and surfacing welding were all slight corrosion, and the sensitivity of chloride stress corrosion cracking was low in the simulation of the corrosion environment of high temperature and high pressure gas field. 904L composite plate met the requirements of corrosion resistance of pressure vessel material in high temperature and high pressure gas field environment.
A hybrid Fuzzy Evaluation Method for Quantitative Risk Classification of Barrier Lake Based on an AHP Method Extended by D Numbers
Authors: Yang Qigui , Yan Fugen , Cai Yaojun , Luan Yuesheng , Yi Duliangzi , Liu Haitao , Dai Wanli , Zou Zhongtian
Published: August 2024

The risk classification of barrier lake is the key to conducting emergency treatment in a scientific manner. Such difficulties are faced as short time for risk evaluation, complex evaluation indicators, difficulty in obtaining information quickly and quantifying index weights. Based on this, this paper constructs a quantitative risk classification model for barrier lakes based on D-AHP. On the basis of studies on nearly 100 cases of barrier lakes, an 8-factor evaluation index system and quantitative classification are proposed. The methods of rapid calculation of reservoir capacity curve of barrier lake and intelligent identification of particles on the surface of barrier body were developed, which realized the rapid acquisition of 8-factor evaluation index information in emergency environment. The D-AHP method dealt with inconsistent weight assignment to evaluation factors by experts, which helped achieve weight quantification of 8 factors. The risk assessment on15 barrier lakes such as Tangjiashan barrier lake show that the conclusion drawn with risk classification method proposed in this paper is basically consistent with that of the traditional table-lookup method. However, the table-lookup method ignores cumulative loss’s impacts on the risk level of barrier lakes, and considers the extremely severe loss of barrier lakes as a sufficient condition for the evaluation level to be grade I, and thus a deviation in the evaluation. The risk classification method proposed in this paper is more reasonable and reliable.
Evaluating Governmental Constraints on Construction in Nigeria: A Review
Authors: Babalola Olatunde , Ugah Ugah Uzodinma Kelechi , Ndimako Onyedikachukwu
Published: August 2024

The construction industry is a cornerstone of Nigeria's economic growth, yet it faces significant hurdles, particularly from governmental constraints. This research aims to (1) identify the primary governmental constraints impacting the Nigerian construction sector and (2) evaluate the effectiveness of existing government interventions in addressing these challenges. Employing a comprehensive literature review, this study analyzes regulatory frameworks, bureaucratic processes, corruption, political instability, and infrastructure deficiencies. It also examines the consequences of these constraints on project costs, timelines, and quality. Key findings reveal that bureaucratic red tape and corruption are the most pervasive constraints, significantly hindering project execution. Consistent government policies and adequate infrastructure also contribute to project delays and cost escalation. To enhance the construction sector's performance, it is imperative to (1) streamline bureaucratic procedures and strengthen anti-corruption measures and (2) develop and implement consistent, long-term sector-specific policies. By addressing these recommendations, the government can create a more favorable environment for construction businesses, stimulate investment, and accelerate Nigeria's overall development.
Investigating Drug Release and Antitumor Activity in Experimental MEC1 and RM1 Cell Lines Using Multifunctional Iron Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Maisuradze Nino , Kekutia Shalva , Markhulia Jano , Tsertsvadze Tamar , Mikelashvili Vladimer , Saneblidze Liana , Chkhaidze Niko , Horváth Zsolt Endre , Almasy Laszlo , Mitskevichi Nunu
Published: August 2024

Recent advancements in nanotechnology have led to the development of multifunctional iron oxide nanoparticles, presenting new opportunities in cancer therapy. This study aimed to synthesize and evaluate citric acid-coated/ folic acid conjugated nanoparticles loaded with doxorubi-cin and investigate their efficacy in experimental tumor models. For synthesis, controlled co-precipitation method was employed to produce highly dispersive, multifunctional nanofluids with a narrow size distribution of iron oxide nanoparticles. Nanoparticles were characterized using Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and Electrophoretic Light Scattering (ELS) for size distribution and zeta potential, X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) for structure and morphology, Vibrating Sample Magnetometry (VSM) for magnetic properties, and UV-Visible (UV-Vis) and Fourier-Transform Infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy for modification confirmation. In vitro experiments employed RM1 (prostate cancer) and MEC1 (Chronic lymphocytic leukemia) cell lines to assess cytotoxicity and drug delivery efficiency. Fluorescence microscopy confirmed the intracellular delivery of doxorubicin by these nanoparticles, highlighting their potential for targeted therapy. As a result, nanoparticles conjugated with folic acid showed reduced efficacy over time. This study underscores the critical role of nanoparticle modifications in optimizing therapeutic outcomes. Future research should focus on further refining nanoparticle formulations and long-term effects in vivo, for development of effective and safe agents for targeted cancer treatment.
Parameter Identification of Photovoltaic Module based Triple-Diode using Hybrid Optimization Algorithms
Authors: Muhsen Dhiaa Halboot , Haider Haider Tarish , Al-Nidawi Yaarob
Published: August 2024

Identification the parameters of triple-diode electrical circuit structure of PV-module is a challenging issue and has been emphasized as an important research area. Accordingly, a hybrid evolutionary optimization algorithm is presented in this paper. Differential evolution algorithm (DEA) is hybridized with electromagnetism-like algorithm (EMA) in the mutation stage to enhance the reliability and efficiency of DEA. The presented algorithm is called differential evolution with integrated mutation per iteration (DEIMA). A new formula is presented to adapt the control parameters (mutation factor and crossover rate) of DEA and is based on a sigmoid function in terms of the current and previous fitness function values. Seven different experimental data sets are used to assess the performance of the proposed DEIMA. The results of the proposed PV modeling method are evaluated with other approaches in literature. According to different statistical criteria, DEIMA offered superiority in terms of root mean square error and main bias error by at least 5.4% and 10%, respectively, as compared to other methods. Furthermore, DEIMA needs 27.69 sec. as an average execution time less than other compared methods.
Self-Coagulation Theory and Related Astro-Structures in Electronegative and Gaseous Discharging Plasmas of Laboratory
Authors: Tian Yu , Zhao Shu-Xia
Published: August 2024

The astro-structures with the shape of comet and semi-circle, are found in the electronegative inductively coupled plasmas (ICPs), e.g., Ar/O2 and Ar/SF6. They are formed by means of the self-coagulation theory. This theory is built and based on two-dimensional fluid model simulation dynamic data of the above ICP sources. Concretely, quasi-Helmholtz equation is constructed through the free diffusion transport component and a novel negative chemical source term. The absolute value of recombination rate is higher than the attachment rate and so the net source of simulated anion is negative. This is quite a new chemical phenomenon in the electronegative and gaseous discharging plasmas when compared to the previously reported normal positive chemical source that will generate ambi-polar diffusion potential. In electronegative plasma, the self-coagulation is ambi-polar to sustain the electrical neutrality. Besides, when the anions are accelerated by ambi-polar potential before self-coagulated, the self-coagulation is again advective which leads to the formation of blue sheath. At the ambi-polar self-coagulation of high electronegativity, the electrons dynamics are relatively decoupled from ions and meanwhile they have their own relatively weak, spontaneous, and monopolar self-coagulation in the periphery of astro-structure. At the ambi-polar self-coagulation, both the anion and cation are individually treated as mass point models that carry charge (point charge models, more precisely). When the charge amounts of two individual astr-structures, e.g., semi-circle SF3+ and Ar+, are equal, the coagulated profile of heavy species SF3+ collapses by the expelling effect of Coulomb force that exists between the two point-charges. This is an anti-collective behavior of astro-structure, instead of the collective interaction of plasma, since the collapse of coagulated heavy species creates spatially dispersed charge density that cannot be shielded. The simulation shows that the lighter the species, the easier it self-coagulates, determined by the inertial effect of density quantity. The discharge picture of electronegative plasma is combined by a dynamic continuum transport (e.g., forming the ellipse background) and the mechanical balance contained in the static self-coagulation process (proven by dimensional analysis of continuity equation). The popular astro-structure of electronegative ICP source awaits urgently for the validation of experiment.
Impact of an Eight-Week Intervention Program With Thermomix Cooking, Healthy Breakfast and Sufficient Daily Physical Activity on the Health Status of an Obese Adult: A Descriptive Pilot Study
Authors: Jarnig Gerald
Published: August 2024

ObjectivesIn increasingly stressful times, many people are increasingly turning to fast food, neglecting to drink enough fluids and often forgoing regular exercise. The fast tempo of everyday life leaves little room for healthy habits, such as cooking at home, which means that a conscious and balanced diet takes a back seat.MethodsA descriptive pilot study was conducted to investigate the effects of an eight-week intervention program. This program included the daily intake of breakfast, cooking at home, adequate fluid intake and daily physical activity. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of these measures on the participants' body weight and general health.Results During the 56-day intervention, there was a steady trend towards weight reduction, and at the end of the intervention phase, a significant weight reduction in the test person could be observed. At the end of the intervention, the participant was still 45 years old, measured a body weight of 73.4 kg, which represents a BMI of 25.1 and is classified as slightly overweight. ConclusionThe results of the pilot study demonstrate clearly that the health mix of regular cooking at home, a daily breakfast, a daily physical activity session and sufficient fluid intake can be an effective booster for weight loss in adults. This combination has not only led to a significant reduction in body weight, but has also shown that simple, everyday measures can have a profound effect on health.
Management of Dorsal Bunion in Nonambulatory Adolescents with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Van de Velde Samuel K. , Graham H. Kerr , Ye Ken , Chambers Henry , Rutz Erich
Published: August 2024

Background:

A dorsal bunion may occur in nonambulatory adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP) and a Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level of IV or V. The deformity can cause pain, skin breakdown, and difficulty wearing shoes and braces. A consensus on the biomechanics and surgical management of dorsal bunions in persons with severe CP has not been established.

Methods:

This retrospective cohort study included 23 nonambulatory adolescents with CP, GMFCS level IV or V, and symptomatic dorsal bunions requiring surgery. The median age at surgery was 17 years, and the median follow-up was 56 months. Reconstructive surgery included the excision of a 2 to 3-cm segment of the tibialis anterior tendon to correct the elevation of the first metatarsal. The fixed deformity of the first metatarsophalangeal joint was managed with use of corrective arthrodesis and dorsal plate fixation. Clinical and radiographic outcomes were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively at the transition to adult services.

Results:

There were significant improvements in the clinical and radiographic outcome measures (p < 0.001). Pain was relieved, and there were no further episodes of skin breakdown. The elevation of the first metatarsal was corrected from a mean of 3° of dorsiflexion to a mean of 19° of plantar flexion. The deformity of the first metatarsophalangeal joint was corrected from a mean of 55° of plantar flexion to a mean of 21° of dorsiflexion. Six patients had complications, all of which were grade I or II according to the modified Clavien-Dindo system.

Conclusions:

The surgical reconstruction of a dorsal bunion via soft-tissue rebalancing of the first ray and corrective arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint resulted in favorable medium-term clinical and radiographic outcomes in nonambulatory adolescents with CP.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Upaya Meningkatkan Output Belajar Peserta Didik Dalam Mata Pelajaran Ekonomi Dengan Penerapan Model Problem Based Learning (PBL)
Authors: Rizkinara Faradisa , Kurniawan Riza Yonisa , Basir Muhammad
Published: August 2024

The purpose of the research is to increase the result of economic learning of students in class XI IPS 2 at SMAN 1 Ngoro by the application of the Problem Based Learning model. The research subjects were students of class XI IPS 2 at SMAN 1 Ngoro. This research was conducted in two cycles. Before the activities of cycles I and II, pre-action learning was carried out. Research cycles I and II were both carried out in two meetings. Data collection using student worksheets, observation sheets and tests. Based on the results of data analysis, the result of learning of economic students on APBN and APBD materials showed that there was an increase of 5.56% from cycle I to cycle II. So it can be concluded that the result of economic learning of class XI IPS 2 SMAN 1 Ngoro by the Problem Based Learning (PBL) learning model have increased.
Peningkatan Kemampuan Berpikir Kritis dengan Model Problem Based Learning (PBL) Pada Mata Pelajaran Ekonomi Siswa Kelas X-6 di SMA Negeri 1 Porong Tahun 2022/2023
Authors: Andeline Putricya , Dewi Retno Mustika , Sarirejo Sarirejo , Suryani Nina Dwi
Published: August 2024

This research is motivated by economic learning applied by teachers who have not maximized students' critical thinking abilities. The low critical thinking ability of students is caused by the learning that is given only contains examples and practice questions. The purpose of this research is to improve students' critical thinking skills with the Problem Based Learning model. This research is a Collaborative Classroom Action Research conducted in 3 cycles. The subjects in this study were students of class X-6 at SMAN 1 Porong, which consisted of 36 students. The instruments used were pre-test, post-test, and observation sheets. The data were then analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. The results showed that students' critical thinking skills increased with the Problem Based Learning model. In cycle I it was 71.53%, in cycle II it increased to 82.81%, in cycle III it increased to 88.37%, and in the final test it increased to 91.67%. So that the Problem Based Learning learning model can be applied in economics subjects and in other subjects.
Peran Kepemimpinan Pembelajaran Kepala Sekolah Melalui Transformasi Digital Pasca Pandemi Di Sekolah Dasar
Authors: Nurrochman Taufik , Darsinah Darsinah , Wafroaturrohmah Wafroaturrohmah
Published: August 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan tentang peran kepemimpinan pembelajaran kepala sekolah melalui transformasi digital pasca pandemi di sekolah dasar, mulai dari peran kepemimpinan pembelajaran kepala sekolah sebagai educator, manajerial, supervisor, dan motivator. Jenis penelitian ini adalah penelitian kualitatif. Subjek penelitian ini adalah kepala sekolah, dan guru. Penelitian ini dilakukan di SD Negeri 1 Manggung. Sumber data menggunakan peristiwa, arsip dan dokumen. Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan observasi, wawancara mendalam, dan dokumentasi. Model analisis data menggunakan metode analisis data tertata dalam situs untuk deskripsi. Uji keabsahan data menggunakan uji kredibilitas yang dilakukan dengan triangulasi. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memperbaiki dan meningkatkan kompetensi digital guru pada pembelajaran di sekolah dasar melalui peran kepemimpinan pembelajaran kepala sekolah dan untuk mengidentifikasi dan menganalisis kendala yang timbul, berdasarkan data-data yang telah disiapkan dan hasil diskusi. Hasil penelitian menunjukan  peran kepemimpinan pembelajaran kepala sekolah melalui transformasi digital sudah berjalan dengan baik, mulai peran sebagai educator dengan melakukan pelatihan dan webinar bagi guru, selain itu peran sebagai manajerial dengan pengadaan sarana-prasarana pendukung, peran sebagai supervisor dengan pengawasan dan bimbingan pembelajaran berbasis digital bagi guru, dan yang terakhir peran sebagai motivator dengan memberikan dorongan dan motivasi baik material maupun non-material.
Kata Kunci: Kepemimpinan Pembelajaran, Kepala Sekolah, Transformasi digital.
Analisis Capaian Pembelajaran Mata Kuliah Ulumul Hadis pada Program Studi Ekonomi Syariah di UIN Sultan Aji Muhammad Idris Samrainda (Meninjau Ekspektasi Mahasiswa)
Authors: Panasiah Santi Eka , Fajri Muhamad
Published: August 2024

The science of hadith is one of the foundational elements in the implementation of Islamic economics. Students in Sharia Economics programs are considered human resources for the application of this economic system. The purpose of this research is to analyze the expectations of students in the Sharia Economics program at UIN Sultan Aji Muhammad Idris Samarinda regarding the Ulumul Hadis course. The research employs a qualitative descriptive method with a psychosociological approach, utilizing data collection techniques such as interviews, observations, and documentation, as well as interactive data analysis. The study reveals that students generally expect a change in attitude, an increase in insight and knowledge, and the enhancement of economic skills in accordance with the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad. There are six learning outcomes of the Ulumul Hadis course, which include: 1) understanding and explaining the theories, principles, and practices of hadith studies in accordance with daily life activities and the knowledge and expertise pursued; 2) analyzing, selecting, and discerning high-quality hadith through an understanding of the sciences of hadith studies; 3) analyzing economic problem-solving based on the findings of hadith studies; 4) memorizing and citing hadith related to economic studies; 5) contextually analyzing hadith to critique the implementation or practices of economic and financial management; and 6) collaborating and presenting the results of hadith analysis in the context of contemporary economics.
Exploring Informal Caregivers’ Perspectives on Oral Care for Stroke Patients
Authors:   Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Rani Haslina , Najibah Muhammad Zamzuri Saidatul , Omar Ezzah
Published: August 2024

Stroke often results in physical disability and functional impairment, which may severely limit patients' ability to care for personal hygiene, including oral care. This study aimed to identify the challenges faced by informal caregivers in managing the oral health of stroke patients. This study conducted semi-structured individual interviews with eight home-based caregivers of stroke patients recruited from a community-based clinic facility of a public university in Malaysia. The interviews took 30-45 minutes to complete and were transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were analyzed thematically using a phenomenological approach. Relevant themes that emerged were variations in oral hygiene care, caregivers’ concerns in providing oral care, dental clinic utilization, and caregivers’ perceived educational and training needs. This study highlights the challenges faced by caregivers in managing the oral health of stroke patients. Improving access to dental services for stroke patients and tailoring educational programs to suit the specific learning needs of caregivers, as identified in this study, may result in improved health outcomes for stroke patients.