bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improvement of Information Technology Undergraduate Thesis Project
Authors: Tiwow Gilly Marlya , Batmetan Johan Reimon , Rumagit Selvie Serly , Katuuk Deitje Adolfien , Usoh Elni Jeini , Lengkong Jeffry Sony Junus
Published: March 2024

Many students face challenges in the thesis preparation process, including time constraints, lack of integration with industry requirements, and lack of understanding of research methodology. This research aims to formulate another form of student thesis project with equal reasoning and difficulty level that can be measured and converted as a thesis. Apart from that, it also improves the quality and relevance of undergraduate thesis projects in Information Technology. The research method used is a descriptive approach, involving surveys and interviews. Research participants include Information Technology undergraduate students, supervisors, industry practitioners, and advisory boards. Data collection instruments include a structural questionnaire and interview guide designed to explore experiences, perceptions, and suggestions regarding changes in the preparation of the thesis project. The proposed solution involves implementing effective time management, closer integration with industry challenges through partnerships with companies, increased understanding of research methodologies, and adaptation of curricula to reflect dynamic changes in the Information Technology industry. It is hoped that the results of this research can provide concrete guidance for improving thesis projects and creating graduates who are better prepared and relevant to industry needs. Through this approach, it is hoped that this research can contribute to improving the academic process in producing higher quality and relevant thesis projects in the context of information technology.
Electronic Restaurant Tax Transaction Data Monitoring System Implementation at The Regional Revenue Agency of North Minahasa District
Authors: Wagiu Adisthya , Dilapanga Abdul Rahman , Tarore Steven
Published: March 2024

Implementation of an electronic Restaurant Tax Transaction Data Monitoring System as a form of Restaurant tax monitoring is the latest policy implemented by the North Minahasa Regional Revenue Agency (Bapenda), aimed at increasing Regional Original Income (PAD) through increasing tax discipline. This research aims to evaluate the effectiveness and investigate the background to the implementation of the electronic Tax Transaction Data Monitoring System in the Bapenda of North Minahasa Regency. This research is qualitative with a descriptive approach. The data used consists of primary and secondary data. Data collection was carried out through interviews, observation, and documentation. Descriptive analysis is used by applying contribution and effectiveness ratio calculation formulas to evaluate the success of policies adopted by Bapenda. The research results show that the implementation of the electronic Tax Transaction Data Monitoring System was carried out in response to the tax payment policy with an online and self-assessment system. However, the effectiveness of this policy is not yet optimal because it does not meet the five implementation criteria. Some of the obstacles identified involve a lack of cooperation from taxpayers, a shortage of workers at Bapenda, interference with the electronic Tax Transaction Data Monitoring System equipment, and internet network problems. To overcome these obstacles, Bapenda took steps such as communicating again with electronic Tax Transaction Data Monitoring System technicians, conducting outreach, and giving awards to taxpayers.
Implementation Of OSS-RBA Licensing at the Department of Capital Investment and One-Door Integrated Services, North Minahasa District
Authors: Lontoh Mega , Pangkey Itje , Dilapanga Abdul Rahman
Published: March 2024

This research examines the effectiveness of the implementation of OSS-RBA UMKM Licensing at the North Minahasa Regency Investment and One-Stop Integrated Services Service (DPMPTSP). The research objectives of this study are 1. To describe, analyze and interpret what is done by the One Stop Integrated Service Investment Service Office in implementing the Online Single Submission Risked Based Approach system in North Minahasa Regency, especially in the process of processing UMKM business permits 2. To describe analyzing and interpreting inhibiting factors in implementing the Online Single Submission Risked Based Approach system at the North Minahasa Regency One Stop Integrated Services Investment Service office in the UMKM business licensing process. The first research focus is on the effectiveness and efficiency of permit services through the OSS System and secondly on supporting factors and inhibiting factors for permit services through the OSS System. This research uses a qualitative approach method. The scope of this research is the investment office and one-stop integrated services in the M district. The research results in this study are that permit services through the OSS system are considered effective and efficient compared to the previous system. Where the OSS system offers innovations that solve existing problems in licensing services. About the OSS system, there are also supporting and inhibiting factors that exist and are related to business permit services. These factors support increased use of the OSS System itself and become inhibiting factors which encourage Regional and Central Governments to provide new strategies or improve the OSS System.
Use of The Rasch Model for Analysis of Test Instruments in Class V Science Subjects State 38 Primary School Manado
Authors: Monigir Norma , Tumbol Youla Wilma , Monolimay Nova Veranda
Published: March 2024

This research was conducted to analyze the test instruments used to measure students' abilities in science and science subjects in Class V of SD Negeri 38 Manado. The students consisted of 40 students. The questions given were in the form of 5-point description questions related to the material of light and its properties. The Rasch model is used to obtain fit test items. This analysis was carried out with the help of Winsteps software. From the output of the Winsteps program, the results obtained were 4 questions according to the Rasch model with an average Outfit MNSQ value for each person and an item of 0.99 each. Meanwhile, the Outfit ZSTD values for people and items are -0.10 and -0.29 respectively. Meanwhile, the reliability of the instrument expressed in Cronbach's alpha is 0.18.
Problem-Based Learning in Biology Learning: Implementation in PPG Students of Manado State University
Authors: Naharia Orbanus
Published: March 2024

This study aims to assess the effects of incorporating the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) approach on the acquisition of biology knowledge among PPG students at Manado State University. The research subject comprised 31 students, comprising 14 males and 17 females. This is an instance of educational research referred to as classroom action research, which especially adheres to the approach defined by Kemmis and Taggart. The research was carried out in two distinct phases: the initial phase encompassed planning, execution, action, and observation, while the subsequent phase centered on reflection. Data for the research was gathered by conducting assessments that included both multiple-choice and essay questions. Professionals evaluate Psychomotor learning outcomes through direct observation utilizing a psychomotor assessment form. The cognitive outcomes of cycle I were 51.61% and the cognitive outcomes of cycle II were 80.64%. The psychomotor learning outcomes related to tool and material preparation showed a 19.35% rise, whereas the outcomes for tool and material assembly demonstrated a 25.80% increase. The experimental component experienced a 22.58% increase, the observational component saw a 29.03% increase, and the delivery part of the trial witnessed a significant 41.93% increase. Research indicates that implementing Problem-Based Learning (PBL) can enhance students' academic achievement.
Identifikasi Proses Knowledge Management Systems Pegawai
Authors: Rohajawati Siti
Published: March 2024

Dalam rangka optimalisasi penerimaan pajak negara, Direktorat Jenderal Pajak (DJP), Kementerian Keuangan, bertanggung jawab terhadap keuangan negara khususnya dalam proses pengelolaan pajak dari wajib pajak. Untuk karena itu, DJP harus memiliki sumber daya manusia (SDM) yang kompeten dan berintegritas. Pengelolaan pegawai dilaksanakan oleh Bagian Perencanaan, Pengembangan, dan Pemberhentian Pegawai (P4). Bagian P4 harus menyediakan tenaga ahli yang berkualitas tinggi sesuai bidang unit lain yang membutuhkan. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah mengidentifikasi prioritas proses knowledge management sytems (KMS) guna mengelola pengetahuan SDM di Bagian P4. Metode kuesioner, observasi, dan interview dilakukan dengan mengadopsi metodologi Fernandez dalam tahapan analisis faktor kontingensi, teknologi, proses, infrastruktur, dan mekanisme (KM). Dari hasil analisis diketahui KM proses yang menjadi prioritas pengembangan adalah sosialisasi untuk penemuan pengetahuan, pertukaran pengetahuan, eksternalisasi pengetahuan, dan internalisasi pengetahuan sebagai urutan yang paling penting dalam merancang KMS Bagian P4,
Perancangan Sistem Informasi Siskamling Berbasis Web Di Kelurahan Pasar Merah Timur Kota Medan
Authors: Siregar Roya Hefifiya , Jambak Indah , Aisyah  , Abdillah Rangga , Harahap Calvin
Published: March 2024

Kelurahan Pasar Merah Timur merupakan salah satu kelurahan yang berada di kecamatan Medan Area, Kota Medan provinsi Sumatera Utara. Selama ini, pada Kelurahan Pasar Merah Timur aktivitas menjaga keamanan lingkungan tidak pernah dilakukan oleh masyarakat setempat. Akan tetapi pada daerah ini memiliki Lembaga Pemberdayaan Masyarakat yang akan menjadi relawan dalam kegiatan siskamling ini. Tujuan dari penelitian ini yaitu menghasilkan website untuk mengatur kegiatan siskamling secara online dengan merancang sebuah sistem informasi Siskamling untuk memudahkan dalam pemantauan kegiatan ronda sekaligus menentukan jadwal piket ronda supaya berjalan lancar. Sifat dari Penelitian ini ialah kualitatif dengan menggunakan metode deskriptif. Metode pengumpulan data dari penelitian ini adalah melalui wawancara dan observasi, dimana wawancara dilakukan dengan salah satu asisten dari Kepala Lurah setempat. Solusi dari permasalahan dipaparkan dengan UML dan perancangan ini menggunakan metodologi waterfall. Dari hasil penelitian dan pembahasan menunjukkan bahwa dalam penggunaan aplikasi Siskol untuk pelaksanaan siskamling dapat memudahkan para relawan dan admin untuk membuat/melihat laporan dan melihat jadwal ronda.
En mangehovedet hydra
Authors: Lönngren Ann-Sofie
Published: March 2024

Anmeldelse af: Leander Møller Gøttcke og Adam Paulsen (red.): Identitetspolitik, litteratur og kunstens autonomi, København: U Press, 2022, 550 sider.
#forfatterliv #skriveliv
Authors: Mygind Sarah
Published: March 2024

The number and range of writing communities, schools, courses etc. have been on the rise in Denmark in recent years. In both various local and online communities many writers, especially young people, engage with literature detached from or only loosely affiliated with the traditional, established literary institutions and domains. The contemporary publishing landscape’s traditional as well as virtual, online publics and the literary environments on social media compose important contexts that most authors’ practices relate to today. Based on a media ethnographic approach, this article examines the Danish author Sofie Riis Endahl’s use of Instagram in her author practice thus shedding light on the values and understandings of the literary culture that she is engaged in. The analyses point to Endahl’s dual attachment to online social reading and writing communities as well as the established players of the book market and literary institutions. Endahl takes part in a literary culture that is supported by social capital and where a distinctive author ethos is prevalent; it is an ethos that ascribes value to openness, fallibility, persistence and hard work. At the same time this culture relates to and navigates aspirational in relation to an established literary culture in the way that it celebrates cultural capital in the form of reviews in national newspapers, the state’s art foundation, the big publishers and literary awards.
Litterært feltarbejde
Authors: Lind Hans
Published: March 2024

Based on the author’s experience in doing fieldwork on three Danish creative writing schools – Testrup Højskole, Gladiatorskolen, and Forfatterskolen – this article shows how ethnographic methods can contribute to the study of literary use. Engaging in the ongoing discussions in literary studies on postcritique, the article argues that the movement’s interest in the multifarious social uses of literature should be matched, methodologically, with the researcher’s own willingness to leave the desk and study literature where it is being used.
“Ulvetid, stormtid til verden ender”
Authors: Andersen Kraglund Rikke
Published: March 2024

This article explores how Karl Ove Knausgård, in his ongoing Morning Star-series (2020-), incorporates a planetary perspective on the consequences of the climate crisis. Within his series, he introduces a time where no one dies, prompting reflections on the reasons behind morality and the potentialchallenges to Earth's ecosystem if death were to disappear or if humans lived significantly longer. The narrative adopts an estranged perspective to shed light on tendencies in our current society that may contribute to the climate catastrophe, highlighting mankind's role as a destructive geological force.
Det planetariske blik
Authors: Paulsen Adam
Published: March 2024

With the breakthrough of the space industry after World War II, it became possible for the first time to view the Earth from space, resulting in two of the most spectacular images in history, “Earthrise” (1968) and “The Blue Marble” (1972). Building on these images and the new sensitivity to the Earth that emerged as a result of space technologies and satellite-based observations of the planet during the Cold War, the article argues that German writer Günter Kunert (1929-2019) was one of the few who understood from the very beginning the importance and significance of this “Copernican revolution of the gaze”, and that in his poetry from the early 1960s onwards, he continuously explored man’s place in the cosmos in the age of space travel.
Myten materialiseret
Authors: Sjørslev Inger
Published: March 2024

På grundlag af etnografiske beskrivelser af et tempel, kaldet kong Salomons Tempel, som en evangelisk kirke har opført i metropolen São Paulo i Brasilien, analyserer artiklen, hvordan Bibelens fremstillinger af historien om kong Salomon og de myter, der knytter sig til den, er bragt i spil i en nutidig sammenhæng. Artiklens tese er, at myter er dynamiske størrelser, som holdes i live ved at blive understøttet af spektakulære materielle omgivelser, og når de kommer til udtryk i ritualer. Blandt ritualerne i Den Universelle Kirke for Guds Rige, Igreja Universal Reino de Deus, er der nogle, som ofte gentages, og hvorunder man med Helligåndens hjælp uddriver nogle af de ånder, der dyrkes i de afrobrasilianske religioner. Myten om kong Salomon fra Det Gamle Testamente har den britiske antropolog Edmund Leach behandlet i en artikel, hvori han bygger videre på Lévi-Strauss’ strukturalistiske idéer. Han koncentrerer sig især om det, der kaldes det tredje element, mediatoren i mytestrukturer. Her er der paradokser at finde, og historien om ritualerne i kong Salomons tempel er også fuld af paradokser. Visse elementer i myterne om de afrikanske guder føres nemlig videre, samtidig med at de forsøges uddrevet og erstattet af den mytiske historie fra Det Gamle Testamente. En pointe i artiklen er derfor også, at der foregår en kulturel hvidgørelse, „branqueamento“, der som en parallel til tidligere tiders racistiske idéer søger at udtynde den afrikanske kulturarv til fordel for dyrkelsen af myter som den om kong Salomon, ledsaget af stærke forbindelser til jødiske symboler og landet Israel. Eksemplet illustrerer, hvordan myter kan forme og forføre. I det store imposante tempels materialiserede form bidrager en fysisk inkarnation i form af en kopi af Pagtens Ark til at legitimere myten og videreføre dens kraft.
Mikkel Bunkenborg, Morten Nielsen & Morten Axel Pedersen: Collaborative Damage - An Experimental Ethnography of Chinese Globalization
Authors: Lund Christian
Published: March 2024

Anmeldelse af Mikkel Bunkenborg, Morten Nielsen & Morten Axel Pedersens 'Collaborative Damage -  An Experimental Ethnography of Chinese Globalization'
English summaries
Authors: Temaredaktionen
Published: March 2024

English summaries
Enquete: En trickstermyte i klimakrisen
Authors: Bojlén Ada Zoë Sjørslev
Published: March 2024

Enquete: En trickstermyte i klimakrisen
Determination of Subcontractor Selection Criteria from the View of Occupational Health and Safety in the Construction Industry
Authors: Çeküç Sefa , Gürcanlı Gürkan Emre , Akın Fırat Doğu , Akboğa Kale Özge
Published: March 2024

Construction industry is characterized by labor-intensive workforces, subcontractor-based production, diverse activities, and related hazards. Given the commonality of contingent forms of contracting, the majority of construction work is carried out by subcontractors. Unlike main contractors, subcontractors are typically smaller or medium-sized companies. Their awareness, practice, and compliance with health and safety legislation can be problematic. Furthermore, establishing and implementing a safety management system for a specific project requires coordination and management of multiple subcontractors. In this paper, a model has been created for selecting the most suitable subcontractor through an evaluation of their occupational health and safety (OHS) management implementation. The selection criteria have been determined based on a literature review focused on OHS, followed by the development of a questionnaire that assesses the importance of the criteria with the support of five occupational safety experts. Three shopping mall projects were chosen for implementation based on expert evaluations using scores calculated through the Analytical Hierarchy Process. Importance rates for each criterion were calculated, allowing for the identification of the most significant subcontractor selection criteria. Fifteen on-site subcontractors were evaluated using the proposed method. The research suggests that in the absence of qualification-based selection criteria for subcontractors, unskilled personnel could be selected. Consequently, this could impede the safety oversight mechanism, the execution of OHS measures, as well as the mitigation and/or prevention of potential risks, while jeopardizing compliance with the applicable legislation throughout the project. Therefore, it is imperative to choose only competent subcontractors to guarantee the welfare of workers.
Youth "Hanfu culture" in the context of the subcultural perspective of the development of Chinese street fashion
Authors: Wang Wenshan
Published: March 2024

The development of the Hanfu Culture youth movement in China has been going on for more than ten years. The purpose of this study is to clarify the importance of the historical influence of ancient fashion on modern Hanfu costume and its perception by the youth of the country. The object of the study is social relations. An empirical survey using the example of young residents of Chengdu showed that fans of the "Hanfu culture" make up the absolute majority, and these are mainly women of a wide age range and Han youth with a higher cultural level with a good education. The author proves that the main goals of the Hanfu youth movement are: inheritance, dissemination and popularization of Hanfu culture; development and innovation of Hanfu culture. Based on the conducted surveys and tests, the author concludes that the rise of the youth "Hanfu culture" is mainly due to the following reasons: the awakening of national identity, inspired by the ongoing development of globalization; the increase in national consciousness caused by the emphasis on historical consciousness in domestic policy towards ethnic minorities.   The following methods and methodology were used in the research process: Analysis of historical sources: historical documents, images, artifacts and literature; Questionnaires: among various population groups; Personal survey; Comparative analysis. The methodology included a comprehensive approach to the study of the historical context and its impact on modern fashion. The presented article explores the historical influence of ancient fashion on modern street fashion, taking into account questionnaires, personal survey and analysis of historical time periods and forms of Chinese Hanfu costume. The main conclusions of the study are to identify the significant influence of ancient fashion on modern street fashion trends, as well as to understand the importance of preserving historical heritage in modern fashion. A special contribution of the author to the research of the topic is an integrated approach to the analysis of historical data and opinions of various groups of society, which allowed us to get a more complete picture of the influence of ancient fashion on modern culture. The novelty of the research lies in the use of a combination of questionnaire methods, personal survey and analysis of historical forms to study this topic, which allowed us to obtain unique results and a deep understanding of the evolution of fashion.
Multiple objects evoke fluctuating responses in several regions of the visual pathway
Authors: Schmehl Meredith N , Caruso Valeria C , Chen Yunran , Jun Na Young , Willett Shawn M , Mohl Jeff T , Ruff Douglas A , Cohen Marlene , Ebihara Akinori F , Freiwald Winrich A , Tokdar Surya T , Groh Jennifer M
Published: March 2024

How neural representations preserve information about multiple stimuli is mysterious. Because tuning of individual neurons is coarse (e.g., visual receptive field diameters can exceed perceptual resolution), the populations of neurons potentially responsive to each individual stimulus can overlap, raising the question of how information about each item might be segregated and preserved in the population. We recently reported evidence for a potential solution to this problem: when two stimuli were present, some neurons in the macaque visual cortical areas V1 and V4 exhibited fluctuating firing patterns, as if they responded to only one individual stimulus at a time (Jun et al., 2022). However, whether such an information encoding strategy is ubiquitous in the visual pathway and thus could constitute a general phenomenon remains unknown. Here, we provide new evidence that such fluctuating activity is also evoked by multiple stimuli in visual areas responsible for processing visual motion (middle temporal visual area, MT), and faces (middle fundus and anterolateral face patches in inferotemporal cortex – areas MF and AL), thus extending the scope of circumstances in which fluctuating activity is observed. Furthermore, consistent with our previous results in the early visual area V1, MT exhibits fluctuations between the representations of two stimuli when these form distinguishable objects but not when they fuse into one perceived object, suggesting that fluctuating activity patterns may underlie visual object formation. Taken together, these findings point toward an updated model of how the brain preserves sensory information about multiple stimuli for subsequent processing and behavioral action.
Maintenance of cell wall remodeling and vesicle production are connected in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Salgueiro Vivian , Bertol Jorge , Gutierrez Claude , Palacios Ainhoa , Pasquina-Lemonche Laia , Espalliat Akbar , Lerma Laura , Weinrick Brian , Lavin Jose L. , Elortza Felix , Azkalgorta Mikel , Prieto Alicia , Buendía-Nacarino Pilar , Luque-García José L. , Neyrolles Olivier , Cava Felipe , Hobbs Jamie K. , Sanz Joaquín , Prados-Rosales Rafael
Published: March 2024

Pathogenic and nonpathogenic mycobacteria secrete extracellular vesicles (EVs) under various conditions. EVs produced by
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
(
Mtb
) have raised significant interest for their potential in cell communication, nutrient acquisition, and immune evasion. However, the relevance of vesicle secretion during tuberculosis infection remains unknown due to the limited understanding of mycobacterial vesicle biogenesis. We have previously shown that a transposon mutant in the LCP-related gene
virR
(

virR
mut

) manifested a strong attenuated phenotype during experimental macrophage and murine infections, concomitant to enhanced vesicle release. In this study, we aimed to understand the role of VirR in the vesicle production process in
Mtb
. We employ genetic, transcriptional, proteomics, ultrastructural and biochemical methods to investigate the underlying processes explaining the enhanced vesiculogenesis phenomenon observed in the
virR
mutant. Our results establish that VirR is critical to sustain proper cell permeability via regulation of cell envelope remodeling possibly through the interaction with similar cell envelope proteins, which control the link between peptidoglycan and arabinogalactan. These findings advance our understanding of mycobacterial extracellular vesicle biogenesis and suggest that these set of proteins could be attractive targets for therapeutic intervention.
Sensor-based systems for the measurement of Functional Reach Test results: a systematic review
Authors: Francisco Luís , Duarte João , Godinho António Nunes , Zdravevski Eftim , Albuquerque Carlos , Pires Ivan Miguel , Coelho Paulo Jorge
Published: March 2024

The measurement of Functional Reach Test (FRT) is a widely used assessment tool in various fields, including physical therapy, rehabilitation, and geriatrics. This test evaluates a person’s balance, mobility, and functional ability to reach forward while maintaining stability. Recently, there has been a growing interest in utilizing sensor-based systems to objectively and accurately measure FRT results. This systematic review was performed in various scientific databases or publishers, including PubMed Central, IEEE Explore, Elsevier, Springer, the Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), and the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), and considered studies published between January 2017 and October 2022, related to methods for the automation of the measurement of the Functional Reach Test variables and results with sensors. Camera-based devices and motion-based sensors are used for Functional Reach Tests, with statistical models extracting meaningful information. Sensor-based systems offer several advantages over traditional manual measurement techniques, as they can provide objective and precise measurements of the reach distance, quantify postural sway, and capture additional parameters related to the movement.
Mammal dung–dung beetle trophic networks: an improved method based on gut-content DNA
Authors: Pedersen Karen M. , von Beeren Christoph , Oggioni Arianna , Blüthgen Nico
Published: March 2024

Background

Dung beetles provide many important ecosystem services, including dung decomposition, pathogen control, soil aeration, and secondary seed dispersal. Yet, the biology of most dung beetles remains unknown. Natural diets are poorly studied, partly because previous research has focused on choice or attraction experiments using few, easily accessible dung types from zoo animals, farm animals, or humans. This way, many links within natural food webs have certainly been missed. In this work, we aimed to establish a protocol to analyze the natural diets of dung beetles using DNA gut barcoding.

Methods

First, the feasibility of gut-content DNA extraction and amplification of 12s rDNA from six different mammal dung types was tested in the laboratory. We then applied the method to beetles caught in pitfall traps in Ecuador and Germany by using 12s rDNA primers. For a subset of the dung beetles caught in the Ecuador sampling, we also used 16s rDNA primers to see if these would improve the number of species we could identify. We predicted the likelihood of amplifying DNA using gut fullness, DNA concentration, PCR primer, collection method, and beetle species as predictor variables in a dominance analysis. Based on the gut barcodes, we generated a dung beetle-mammal network for both field sites (Ecuador and Germany) and analyzed the levels of network specificity.

Results

We successfully amplified mammal DNA from dung beetle gut contents for 128 specimens, which included such prominent species as Panthera onca (jaguar) and Puma concolor (puma). The overall success rate of DNA amplification was 53%. The best predictors for amplification success were gut fullness and DNA concentration, suggesting the success rate can be increased by focusing on beetles with a full gut. The mammal dung–dung beetle networks differed from purely random network models and showed a moderate degree of network specialization (H2′: Ecuador = 0.49; Germany = 0.41).

Conclusion

We here present a reliable method of extracting and amplifying gut-content DNA from dung beetles. Identifying mammal dung via DNA reference libraries, we created mammal dung-dung beetle trophic networks. This has benefits over previous methods because we inventoried the natural mammal dung resources of dung beetles instead of using artificial mammal baits. Our results revealed higher levels of specialization than expected and more rodent DNA than expected in Germany, suggesting that the presented method provides more detailed insights into mammal dung–dung beetle networks. In addition, the method could have applications for mammal monitoring in many ecosystems.
Clinical significance of small nuclear ribonucleoprotein U1 subunit 70 in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Jiang Dong , Zhu Xia-Ling , An Yan , Li Yi-ran
Published: March 2024

Background & Aims

Small nuclear ribonucleoprotein U1 subunit 70 (SNRNP70) as one of the components of the U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP) is rarely reported in cancers. This study aims to estimate the application potential of SNRNP70 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) clinical practice.

Methods

Based on the TCGA database and cohort of HCC patients, we investigated the expression patterns and prognostic value of SNRNP70 in HCC. Then, the combination of SNRNP70 and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in 278 HCC cases was analyzed. Next, western blotting and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the expression of SNRNP70 in nucleus and cytoplasm. Finally, Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and scratch wound healing assays were used to detect the effect of SNRNP70 on the proliferation and migration of HCC cells.

Results

SNRNP70 was highly expressed in HCC. Its expression was increasingly high during the progression of HCC and was positively related to immune infiltration cells. Higher SNRNP70 expression indicated a poor outcome of HCC patients. In addition, nuclear SNRNP70/AFP combination could be a prognostic biomarker for overall survival and recurrence. Cell experiments confirmed that knockdown of SNRNP70 inhibited the proliferation and migration of HCC cells.

Conclusion

SNRNP70 may be a new biomarker for HCC progression and HCC diagnosis as well as prognosis. SNRNP70 combined with serum AFP may indicate the prognosis and recurrence status of HCC patients after operation.
Assessing the professional quality of life in the context of pediatric care
Authors: Alharbi Manal F. , Alkhamshi Aljawharah M.
Published: March 2024

Background

This study examines the professional quality of life (ProQOL), including compassion satisfaction (CS) and compassion fatigue (CF), burnout (BO) and secondary traumatic stress (STS) among registered nurses in the context of pediatric care in Riyadh city in Saudi Arabia.

Methods

This study utilised a random multistage sampling method and a survey to collect data from 250 participants on personal characteristics, work-related aspects, lifestyle, and professional quality of life.

Results

The study participants were all female. Only 2.0% were under 25, with 27.2% aged between 25 and 30 years, 24.0% aged between 31 and 35, and 26.4% over 40 years old. The majority, 74%, were non-Saudis. The participants reported low compassion satisfaction (CS) and compassion fatigue (CF) levels. The CS, burnout (BO), and secondary traumatic stress (STS) scores were 3.23 ± 0.764, 2.75 ± 0.68, and 2.69 ± 0.54, respectively. The study found a significant difference in ProQOL level based on factors such as age, nationality, previous experience, department, shift length, overtime work, state of overtime (mandatory versus optional), and salary.

Conclusions

Working with vulnerable groups poses unique challenges for pediatric nurses. The nationality, salary, and state of overtime were found to be significantly different when compared to CS scores. Additionally, age, department, previous experience, shift length, and overtime work were very different compared to CF scores. However, lifestyle factors did not affect CS and CF scores significantly.

Implications

To improve their well-being and interest in activities, pediatric nurses should practice self-compassion and utilise available educational resources such as workshops. They should also strive to achieve a work-life balance and adopt healthy habits to reduce CF.
On the Study of the Active Tooth Surfaces’ Geometry of the Spatial Rack Drives
Authors: Abadjieva Emilia V.
Published: March 2024

In this study, a spatial rack system, that transforms a rotation motion into rectilinear translation by means of a cylindrical worm and a helical rack is considered. This type of motions’ transformation is realized by the conjugated active flanks of the worm and the gear rack. This paper deals with the theoretical approach to their synthesis. It is based on the second principle of T. Olivier. The obtained equations of the surfaces of the spatial rack drive are of importance when the algorithms for the synthesis of this type of mechanism are elaborated.
Lo esencial es invisible a los ojos: el papel crucial de los hongos acuáticos en los ríos intermitentes y corrientes efímeras
Authors: Arias-Real Rebeca , Alcalde-Rey Isabel , Villar-dePablo Mar
Published: March 2024

Los hongos acuáticos desempeñan un papel crucial en los ciclos biogeoquímicos globales. A pesar de su relevancia, el conocimiento sobre cómo la desecación afecta a su composición y funcionamiento en ríos intermitentes y arroyos efímeros, es limitado, aun siendo los ecosistemas fluviales mundialmente más comunes. Estudios disponibles muestran que la diversidad (tanto taxonómica como funcional) fúngica en estos ambientes es inferior que en ríos permanentes. Estos organismos presentan mecanismos de resistencia frente a la desecación mediante diversas estrategias vitales y adaptaciones funcionales. Dicho ajuste implica compensaciones entre crecimiento, reproducción y dispersión, afectando en última instancia a la función del ecosistema. Por tanto, un aumento en la desecación podría comprometer la capacidad de los hongos acuáticos para garantizar el funcionamiento del ecosistema, a pesar de su habilidad para enfrentar la desecación. Esta breve nota aboga por estudiar sus respuestas frente a la desecación para salvaguardar la resiliencia de estos ecosistemas.
Unusual Presentations of Epilepsy: A Series of Paediatric Cases with Abdominal Epilepsy and Epileptic Angina
Authors: Kataki Rita Panyang , Sonowal Bhaskar Borah , Agarwal Komal , Chiring Chow Nifaseng , Dhungel Luhit
Published: March 2024

Epilepsy, a common neurological disorder characterised by recurrent seizures, can manifest in unusual clinical presentations such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and bloating associated with diverse Central Nervous System (CNS) symptoms like confusion, fatigue, headache, dizziness, and syncope. The importance of recognising and documenting such unusual presentations lies in their potential to be misdiagnosed or overlooked, delaying appropriate treatment and causing undue distress to both the patients and their families. In the present case series, patients presented with gastrointestinal or chest pain for a prolonged period. As the symptoms did not subside with treatment, an Electroencephalogram (EEG) was performed to rule out epilepsy. In all three cases (10-year and 10-month-old female, 11-year-old male, seven-year-old male), EEG revealed a generalised seizure disorder. The present case series highlights unusual presentations of epilepsy in paediatric patients, including Abdominal Epilepsy (AE) and epileptic angina. These cases underscore the importance of considering epilepsy as a potential aetiology in patients with recurrent and atypical symptoms.
Association of the 24-hour Pregnancy Unique Quantification of Emesis Index with Self-Rated Wellbeing Score: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Bhatia Nisha , Meka Krishna Kumari , Wani Fozia Jeelani
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy (NVP) are common symptoms of pregnancy. Often, treatment is guided by subjective symptoms, leading to hospitalisation of these patients and unnecessary health costs. The 24-hour Pregnancy-Unique Quantification of Emesis (PUQE) index helps objectively quantify these symptoms and guide the management of these patients. Aim: To assess the association of the 24-hour PUQE index with the self-rated well-being score in evaluating the severity of NVP. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a total of 207 women at 5 to 12 weeks of singleton pregnancy were recruited after obtaining informed consent. They were interviewed regarding their symptoms of nausea and vomiting based on a 24-hour PUQE index questionnaire, and a score was assigned to them. They were stratified as mild, moderate, or severe based on the score. The association of these symptoms with a selfrated well-being score and subjective symptoms such as the ability to take multivitamins, sleep pattern, liquid intake, and the need for hospitalisation was assessed. They were followed-up after four weeks, and a repeat score was obtained. Chi-square test was performed to compare the severity of PUQE-24. Results: The mean well-being score at the first visit was 3.381±1.650, and at the follow-up visit, it was 7±1.763. At the first visit, 46 out of 207 had a mild 24-hour PUQE score, 140 out of 207 had a moderate score, and 21 out of 207 had a severe score. During the follow-up visit, 123 out of 207 had a mild score, 77 out of 207 had a moderate score, and seven out of 207 had a severe score. There was a significant association between the mean self-rated well-being score and the 24-hour PUQE score at the first and follow-up visits (p-value=0.0001). Among the patients hospitalised at the first visit (21 out of 28), 75% belonged to the severe PUQE category. The mean liquid intake at the first visit was 24.363±10.357 mL/kg/hr, and at the followup visit was 29.972±10.691, showing a significant association with the severity of the 24-hour PUQE score (p-value=0.0001). A significant association was observed between the 24-hour PUQE scores of the first and follow-up visits (p-value=0.002). Conclusion: In this study, there was a significant association between the 24-hour PUQE score and the well-being score at both visits. Stratifying the severity of NVP objectively will guide us to choose the appropriate treatment and reduce the need for hospitalisation.
Development of Learning Models Computer and Network Engineering Expertise Concentration Based on Flipped - blended Learning
Authors: Sam Noer Ekafitri , Purnamawati . , Mappalotteng Abdul Muis
Published: March 2024

The objectives of this research are: (1) analyzing the need for learning models; (2) designing learning tools; (3) analyzing the effectiveness of the learning model. The research method used is the development research method or Research and Development. The process of developing this learning model refers to the ADDIE development model which includes: (1) Analysis: performance analysis and needs analysis; (2) the design stage composes teaching modules, model books, LMS designs, and manual books. Preparation of research products and tools based on literature reviews that have been carried out by researchers; (3) Development through individual trials and small group trials. Then produce a product prototype (4) Implementation conduct field tests at YPPP Wonomulyo Vocational School by implementing a learning model prototype, and collecting user responses to the learning model applied; (5) Evaluation in the form of a review of research products and tools. The research results showed that at the small group testing stage and user responses were in the very good category. The learning model for concentrating computer and network engineering skills based on flipped-blended learning is effective based on observer assessments and user responses. Therefore, it is recommended that the learning model for concentrating computer and network engineering skills based on flipped-blended learning can be used as a reference for managing learning that is fun, makes things easier, increases motivation and optimizes student learning outcomes.
Analyzing Teachers' Attitude towards Integrating Technology in Teaching and Learning
Authors: Rabten Tenzin
Published: March 2024

An attempt has been made to investigate the technology acceptance in teaching in relation to attitude of school teachers'. The focus of the research is to-evaluate the school teachers' attitude towards technology acceptance in teaching; find the difference in female and male school teachers' attitude towards technology acceptance in teaching. Method used for data collection was descriptive survey. A sample of three hundred and four school teachers (comprising of 151 female and 153 male school teachers) was drawn from eighteen government school (six districts namely Samdrup Jongkhar, Pema Gatshel, Tashi Gang, Tashi Yangtse, Mongar and Lhuntse of Bhutan) of Eastern Bhutan through convenience sampling. The objective and hypotheses of the study have been tested by using mean, standard deviation, frequencies, percentages and z'-test. Results revealed that 1) majority of school teachers have positive (highly favorable and favorable) attitude towards the technology acceptance in teaching; and 2) Attitude of female and male school teachers towards technology acceptance in teaching do not differ significantly from each other. Female and male school teachers have favorable attitude, to equal extent or degree, towards the technology acceptance in teaching.
Current Management of Choledocholithiasis-narrative Review Article
Authors: Rajah Kumar Hari
Published: March 2024

The most common management of choledocholithiasis involves the two-step method that involves the use of pre-operative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) followed by laparoscopic cholecystectomy in six weeks’ time. But since the introduction of laparoscopic surgery, laparoscopic common bile duct exploration has been used as a single step method to      treat this condition. Another method involves intraoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and laparoscopic cholecystectomy in the same setting. As there is no consensus on management, we have conducted this review article to look at the various management options for choledocholithiasis.
Mathematical Modeling of Intra-Communal Violence and Risk-Level Analysis. Case Study: Obiaruku Community in Delta State, Nigeria
Authors: Marcus Ossaiugbo Ifeanyi , Ighomaro Okposo Newton , Sarduana Apanapudor Joshua
Published: March 2024

This paper aims to capture the dynamics of intra-communal violence in a deterministic model of ordinary differential equations, accordingly, the Authors found some interesting results. Lack of quality education, insecurity, bad roads, drugs and alcoholism, unequal representation in government and religious decay have been identified as key factors supporting intra-communal violence over the years. In this research work we built all these factors into a deterministic model describing intra-communal violence and performed some basic mathematical analysis such as positivity of solutions, existence of invariant region, violence-free equilibrium, violence-persistent equilibrium, basic reproduction number, sensitivity analysis, stability analysis and bifurcation analysis. It was revealed that the violence-free equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable. The model exhibits a forward bifurcation. The sensitivity analysis revealed that injustice and insecurity are highly sensitive parameters of the basic reproduction number. We also designed a questionnaire to ascertain the violence risk level of Obiaruku community in Delta State, Nigeria and the analysis revealed that the community is at the medium high risk level and thus violence may occur in most cases in the community. The results of the stability analysis and the sensitivity analysis showed that under certain conditions, a community can be brought to the maximum low risk level and the maximum high peace level.
Food Calorie Consumption and Vulnerability Status of the Rice Farmers in Ekiti State, Nigeria: Perspective for Commercialized Farming
Authors: Ojo Olaniyi Oluwatosin , Oladoyin Olanrewaju Peter , Ekundayo Babatunde Peter , Borokini Emmanuel Adesina
Published: March 2024

The research investigated the calorie consumption and vulnerability status among rice farmers in Ekiti State, Nigeria. Employing a multi-stage sampling technique, 420 respondents were selected, and data were collected through a well designed questionnaire. Analysis involved descriptive statistics, a vulnerability index, and an ordinary least squares regression model. Findings indicated that vulnerable rice farming households typically exhibit larger sizes with fewer working members, often headed by unmarried females. Additionally, factors such as adult equivalence, the head of the household's years of formal education, land ownership, membership in agricultural production groups, engagement in agricultural commercialization, contact with extension agents, and encounters with Fulani herdsmen significantly influenced households' food calorie consumption. Furthermore, all variables considered in the ordinary least squares regression, regarding vulnerability to food insecurity, exhibited a significant relationship with households' vulnerability to food insecurity. In summary, the study provides valuable insights into the demographic and socio-economic factors affecting calorie consumption and vulnerability among rice farmers, offering a foundation for targeted interventions and policy considerations.
Reevaluating the Concern of Climate Change
Authors: Sharma Ashutosh , Shenvi Vinit Vithalrai , Sain Mohit
Published: March 2024

Climate change is inevitably a defining characteristic of this century, which is inattentively attributed to anthropogenic factors far beyond its actualities. The paper challenges the prevailing narrative, proposing that global warming and climate shifts are inherent to Earth's history rather than primarily driven by human activities. It argues that climate change policies impose unwarranted economic strains on nations and impede technological advancement. Scientific assertions of human-induced climate change are scrutinized, with a focus on manipulated data and selective presentation to reinforce the narrative of impending global catastrophe. The exclusive emphasis on curbing greenhouse gas emissions is critiqued for fostering costly and ineffective measures, ultimately stalling economic growth and job creation. The study challenges the prevailing discourse on climate change and socio-economic challenges posed by climate migrations, advocating for a nuanced understanding that considers historical climatic shifts and questions the validity of current research methodologies, encouraging a more comprehensive examination of its multifaceted dynamics and potential societal impacts.