bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EFEKTIVITAS PENGGUNAAN BAHAN AJAR GEOMETRI BERBASIS BUDAYA LOKAL TIMOR TENGAH SELATAN TERHADAP HASIL BELAJAR SISWA
Authors: Bulu Vera Rosalina
Published: August 2023

Salah satu komponen pembelajaran yang penting untuk di kembangkan dan dimaksimalkan yaitu bahan/materi ajar sebab bahan ajar yang baik dapat meningkatkan efektivitas dalam pembelajaran bagi guru dan meningkatkan pemahaman materi bagi siswa. Masalah yang ditemukan di lapangan yaitu penggunaan bahan ajar yang belum kontekstual sehingga sulit bagi siswa untuk memahami materi yang disajikan. Oleh sebab itu, salah satu cara untuk mengatasi hal tersebut yaitu untuk mengembangkan bahan ajar berbasis kearifan lokal Timor Tengah Selatan. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kuantitatif dengan jenis quasi eksperiment design. sampel dalam penelitian ini yaitu siswa kelas V SD Inpres Lakat kelas A dan Kelas B berjumlah 40 orang. Teknik pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan cara tes dan non tes. Teknik analisis data menggunakan uji analisis parsyarat yang terdiri dari uji normalitas, uji homogenitas varians dan uji matriks varians – kovarians. Selanjutnya, menggunakan uji N- Gain dan uji efektivitas untuk melihat ada tidaknya peningkatan hasil belajar matematika materi geometri kelas V, SD Inpres Lakat. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa penggunaan bahan ajar berbasis budaya lokal Timor Tengah Selatan efektif meningkatkan hasil belajar siswa kelas V SD Inpres Lakat, Timor Tengah Selatan. Terlihat bahwa nilai N-Gain hasil belajar siswa kelas ekperimen sebesar 0,60 dan kelas kontrol sebesar 0,39. Hal ini menunjukan bahwa penerapan bahan ajar berbasis kebudayaan lokal Timor Tengah Selatan cukup efektif untuk meningkatkan hasil belajar matematika siswa. Selain itu, dapat dilihat hasil uji effect size yaitu 1,50 termasuk dalam kategori tinggi.
MINAT LITERASI MEMBACA MAHASISWA DI PROGRAM STUDI PENDIDIKAN GURU SEKOLAH DASAR UNIVERSITAS CITRA BANGSA
Authors: Nahak Kristina E. Noya , Nalle Efraim Semuel
Published: August 2023

Menyadari akan pentingnya membaca yang merupakan suatu aktivitas yang sangat bermanfaat sebaiknya setiap orang menjadikan membaca sebagai suatu hobi atau minat yang terus diasah dan dilatih sehingga menjadi suatu kebiasaan yang terus berkelanjutan. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui minat literasi, sikap, dan kebiasaan membaca mahasiswa Program Studi Pendidikan Guru Sekolah Dasar Universitas Citra Bangsa. Jenis penelitian ini adalah kuantitatif dengan pendekatan deskriptif dan menggunakan kuesioner untuk mengumpulkan data. Responden dalam penelitian ini mahasiswa semester dua  kelas C dan D yang berjumlah 50 orang. Setelah semua data terkumpul kemudian dianalisis menggunakan analisis tematik. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa minat membaca mahasiswa sudah ditanamkan sejak dini yakni dibangku Taman Kanak-Kanak sehingga mahasiswa memiliki literasi membaca yang baik. Mahasiswapun  menyadari akan pentingnya membaca oleh karena itu aktivitas membaca ini sering dilakukan di kampus maupun di rumah dengan durasi waktu satu sampai dua jam. Bahan bacaannyapun beragam mulai dari media cetak hingga media elektronik. Kebiasaan membaca inipun ditunjukkan melalui sering membaca materi yang akan dibahas dalam perkuliahan nanti maupun setelah selesai perkuliahan dengan tujuan tidak mudah lupa, lebih memahami, menguatkan pemahaman terhadap materi kuliah dan membantu mengingat. Menciptakan Lingkungan  akademik yang nyaman dan menyenangkan sangat baik untuk kegiatan literasi, membangun pemahaman dan pengetahuan yang kompeten melalui literasi membaca.
DEIXIS IN MOANA MOVIE
Authors: Puspita Rina anggi , Dian Noviani Syafar Rina Anggi p, Yola Merina
Published: August 2023

This study aims to analyze the types of Deixis in the Moana movie by using Cruse's (2006) theory. The researcher chose a dialogue between Moana and Maui. Therefore, this research was conducted using observational method with non participant observational technique . The data used are film dialogues and scripts which are classified into types of deixis based on their criteria. The results showed that the researcher found five deixis in the film, namely personal deixis, spatial deixis, temporal deixis, discourse deixis and social deixis, with details of 133 persona deixis, 39 spatial deixis, 4 temporal deixis, 12 discourse deixis and 20 social deixis from Moana's utterances. The researcher also found 151 person deixis, 43 spatial deixis, 7 temporal deixis, 12 discourse deixis and 24 social deixis according to Maui's utterances. And that the type of persona deixis appears the most in this study
INTERNALISASI PERAN GURU KELAS DALAM PENINGKATAN AKTIVITAS BELAJAR SISWA PADA PEMBELAJARAN TEMATIK
Authors: Nitte Yulsy Marselina
Published: August 2023

Penelitian ini menggunakan jenis penelitian kualitatif dengan subjek penelitiannya adalah guru kelas di SD Negeri Nunukurus Kecamatan Kupang Timur. Teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah observasi, wawancara dan dokumentasi. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui bagaimana internalisasi peran  guru kelas dalam meningkatkan aktivitas belajar pada pembelajaran tematik. Hasil dari penelitian yang dilaksanakan oleh peneliti adalah sebagai berikut: (1). Kendala yang dihadapi guru dalam meningkatkan aktivitas belajar siswa pada pembelajaran tematik adalah kurangnya semangat siswa ketika mengikuti kegiatan belajar mengajar, kurangnya keberanian siswa dalam mengajukan dan menjawab pertanyaan dan kurangnya pengetahuan siswa dalam membaca, menulis maupun menghitung. (2). Internalisasi peran guru kelas dalam meningkatkan aktivitas belajar siswa pada pembelajaran tematik adalah membuat rencana pelaksanaan pembelajaran, menyiapkan materi pembelajaran, membuat media pembelajaran dan memberikan kesempatan kepada siswa untuk bertanya dan menyampaikan pendapat.
ARBITRAGEM E MEDIAÇÃO COMO FERRAMENTA ÚTIL NAS DISPUTAS DE PROPRIEDADE INTELECTUAL
Authors: Fonseca Junior Claudemir
Published: August 2023

O presente artigo tem como objetivo demonstrar os benefícios da arbitragem e da mediação nas questões relativas à propriedade intelectual. Será analisado o direito à propriedade intelectual à luz da lei de arbitragem, abordando, os aspectos positivos da mediação e seus efeitos na resolução de litígios da propriedade intelectual. O método de pesquisa utilizado é o dedutivo e a pesquisa se desenvolve por meio de consultas aprofundadas a doutrinas nacionais e internacionais, leis e jurisprudência
Early Coronary Artery Disease in a Female Patient with Discoid Lupus Erythematosus and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
Authors: Dimitrovska Biljana , Jovchevska Simona , Bede I. , Vraynko Elif , Kostova Nela , Zafirovska Biljana , Otljanska Magdalena
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND: Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory condition involving the endothelium of the blood vessels, predominant the coronary arteries. Main risk factors are dyslipidemia, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and lack of physical activity.  Patients  with autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis etc., have a twofold increased risk of developing CAD at younger age, compared with the general population.
CASE REPORT: A 41-year-old female patient, with history of smoking and dyslipidemia, was admitted to our hospital with acute inferoposterior myocardial infarction. Initially, coronary reperfusion therapy per protocol was administrated and primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was performed. Multivessel CAD was found, and two stents were implanted on obtuse marginal and circumflex artery. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE)  revealed left ventricle systolic and diastolic dysfunction with segmental hypokinesis. Additionally, the patient was first diagnosed with DLE at the age of  15, but the disease was uncontrolled in the last 7 years. She also has hypothyroidism, regularly treated with hormone replacement therapy. The  patient was discharged with medicamentous therapy including dual antiplatelet agents, statin, beta-blocker, angiotensin-receptor blocker, potassium sparing diuretic and proton pump inhibitor. One month later, recoronarography was performed with stenting of left anterior descending artery. TTE showed improvement of the left ventricle systolic function with preserved ejection fraction. The blood test showed elevated levels of antithyroid antibodies. A rheumatologist was consulted, who recommended therapy with hydroxychloroquine and regular follow-ups.
CONCLUSION: In younger patients with chronic inflammatory diseases, inflammatory mediators play a significant role in the development of the  atherosclerotic plaques, regardless of co-existing risk factors. Therefore, an early cardiovascular assessment is required in these patients for preventing severe or life-threatening cardiovascular events.
Isolated Right Ventricular Infarction without Right Ventricular Dysfunction: A Case Report
Authors: Wening Tristi L. , Siagian Abigail , Asanti Rismarini , Laksono Sidhi
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND: Myocardial infarction is the leading cause of the occlusion of the coronary artery. Meanwhile, right ventricular myocardial infarction (RVMI) is usually associated with inferior left ventricular infarction in 10–50% of cases. We presented isolated RV infarcts which are rare cases that happen in only 3% of total myocardial infarction.
CASE PRESENTATION: We presented a case of a 67-year-old man with sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, and a history of diabetes mellitus. From his 12 lead electrocardiogram, there is no specific ST elevation yet elevation in V3R and V4R and elevated troponin I highly sensitive value. The patient developed junctional bradycardia and early percutaneous coronary intervention backup temporary pacemaker showed total occlusion in the proximal right coronary artery (RCA)
CONCLUSION: The RVMI commonly occurs in the dominant RCA that also supplies the sinoatrial node and atrioventricular node. Therefore, due to its location that passed through the RCA, bradycardia to complete heart block may happen. Isolated right ventricular (RV) infarction may happen because either RV marginal as the predominant location is occluded, or non-dominant RCA occluded by thrombus. RV infarction may impair RV  contractility causing a decrease in RV stroke volume and this condition leads to hypotension, shock, and severe hemodynamic derangement. Meanwhile, acute proximal RCA occlusions do not result in significant RV necrosis, one of the reasons is collateral flow from the left coronary system further protects from RV dysfunctions in our patient.
An unexpected new tree species from Gansu, China: Illicium gansuense (Schisandraceae)
Authors: Bai Zengfu , Zhang Zhihua , Chen Xuelin , Zhang Ji
Published: August 2023

We describe the newly-discovered species Illicium gansuense (Schisandraceae), discovered in the Yuhe area of Giant Panda National Park, Gansu, China. Morphologically, I. gansuense resembles I. ternstroemioides and I. arborescens. However, the new species can be distinguished by its smaller leaf size, the larger number of tepals, tepal margin ciliate, and distinct flowering and fruiting seasons.
Robotization and Smart Technologies in the Hospitality Industry
Authors: Baran Züleyhan , Karaca Şükran , Baran Huseyin
Published: August 2023

New-gen technologies have profoundly impacted all aspects of life and various economic sectors. The tourism industry, known for its inclination towards innovation, has been quick to embrace technological advancements. In response to the global pandemic, tourism businesses such as hotels, food services, and transportation have increasingly utilized robotic systems to ensure social distancing, hygiene, and sanitation measures. However, digitization presents significant challenges for the tourism industry, requiring companies to adapt their operations to stay competitive. Automation has emerged as a highly beneficial trend, simplifying tasks and introducing innovative processes to tourism business models. This enables companies to provide personalized services tailored to the preferences of “digital tourists.” Overall, new-gen technologies are reshaping the tourism industry and driving it toward enhanced efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Robotic Process Automation as an Emerging Technology in Tourism, Hotels, and Food Service
Authors: Khan Sameera , Singh Dileep Kumar
Published: August 2023

A new wave of automation known as robotic process automation is revolutionizing company productivity and delivering excellent ROI. This book chapter examines the use of Robotic Process Automation (RPA) in the hospitality, travel, and food service industries. It focuses on how RPA handles routine activities, enhances operational effectiveness, and improves customer experiences. RPA streamlines operations and enables personalized client interactions in the travel and tourism sector. It automates front desk operations, inventory management, and back-office duties in hotels, optimizing resource allocation and enhancing visitor experiences. In the food service sector, RPA automates order processing, inventory management, and supply chain management, improving operational effectiveness and enabling personalized ordering experiences. The chapter covers popular RPA solutions, analyzes implementation difficulties, and emphasizes the future potential of RPA, including integration with cutting-edge technology. By automating mundane tasks and providing a basic framework for implementation, RPA offers significant advantages in industries like aviation, hotels, finance, tourism, and more. This chapter highlights the significance of RPA in enhancing productivity, reducing errors, and shaping the future of these industries.
AI-Enabled Spatial Intelligence
Authors: Ahmad Munir
Published: August 2023

GIS plays a crucial role in helping decision-makers to analyze and interpret complex spatial data to make informed decisions. However, conventional GIS workflows are inadequate for managing the massive amounts of spatial data that are necessary for decision-making. This chapter discussed the transformative potential of AI and spatial data in enhancing spatial intelligence. It first outlined the challenges associated with GIS, specifically related to data management and decision-making. These challenges are categorized into technical, data, and human-centered. Next, the chapter presented AI-based strategies that can be used to address these challenges, along with their potential impact. The chapter also examined the ethical considerations surrounding AI-powered GIS and suggested approaches to address them. This chapter can serve as a valuable source of information for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers operating in the realm of AI-based GIS.
Impact of Artificial Intelligence and Communication Tools in Veterinary and Medical Sciences
Authors: Saeed Muhammad Rizwan , Abdullah Muhammad , Zoraiz Muhammad , Ahmad Waqas , Naeem Muhammad Ahsan , Akram Qaiser , Younus Muhammad
Published: August 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionized the scientific and biological fields to facilitate animal and human health. The purpose of this chapter is to explain the impact and role of AI in medical health, animal health, and the coordination of these health sectors using information and communication tools (ICTs) to facilitate health for all in general. Precision medicine, drug discovery, robotics, machine learning, and language processing through AI have been well-elaborated and integrated. AI replaced the major human workforce and also reduced the use of excessive manpower, biologicals, machines, radiations, and surgical instruments to analyze, investigate, and make tentative diagnoses not only in humans but also in various fields of veterinary sciences. In this chapter, major achievements and highlights made by AI technologies and ICTs were described comprehensively from different databases.
Designing Inclusive Learning Environments
Authors: Sharma Anshul , Thakur Khushal , Kapoor Divneet Singh , Singh Kiran Jot
Published: August 2023

The practical use of universal design for learning (UDL) in inclusive learning environments is examined in this chapter. It seeks to provide educators and other educational stakeholders a thorough grasp of UDL and its advantages for learners from varied backgrounds, as it gives readers the skills necessary to develop inclusive learning environments by examining UDL ideas, implementation procedures, and design concerns. Equal access to education, student participation, and adaptable assessment techniques are among the major issues covered, which places a strong emphasis on the value of allowing students to express themselves in a variety of ways and encouraging motivation in all students. It also talks about creating inclusive physical and digital learning environments, encouraging teamwork, and assisting teachers in successfully using UDL. This chapter highlights UDL's difficulties and potential drawbacks in order to guide future advancements by offering advice and insights to educators working to establish inclusive learning environments.
Assessing Young Learners' Reading Skills Through Alternative Methods
Authors: Tzamoutzian Nazik , Oikonomidou Vasso
Published: August 2023

This chapter focuses on the assessment of young learners' reading skills through alternative methods. The aim is to introduce the idea of alternative assessment contrary to formative assessment which is normally implemented by foreign language teachers and practitioners. Throughout the chapter, an attempt is made to show that alternative assessment methods such as classroom observation, reading logs, self-assessment and teacher-learner conferences are really effective for assessing reading skills especially when it comes to considering young learners who are motivated by such methods. The chapter concludes with suggestions and ideas for classroom implementation.
English Language Teacher Education and Technology
Authors: Alotumi Mohialdeen
Published: August 2023

This chapter outlines the effect of technology, highlighting the need for change in ELTE programs to empower prospective EFL instructors to incorporate technology in their future teaching satisfactorily. It introduces the technological pedagogical content knowledge (TPACK) framework and dissects its subdomains. It also contends that TPACK training could form teachers' competencies in technology integration in their classes. In addition, it provides an overview of computer-assisted language learning. It presents a historical overview of CALL and why its term shines over other terminology. It also outlines the role of computers in education, encapsulates a typology of CALL, and discusses its benefits. Besides, it delineates EFL TPACK, which underpins CALL integration in ELTE. It then examines recent empirical evidence to support the EFL TPACK framework in ELTE.
Learners' Readiness for Foreign Language Learning in Distance Education Students' Views
Authors: Kuluşaklı Emine
Published: August 2023

The current study aimed to explore EFL learners' level of learning readiness and their views on foreign language learning through distance education. With this aim, two questionnaires and a semi-structured interview form were administered to a total of 113 students studying at various departments of a state university in Turkey. The overall results of the study displayed that the learners showed above medium level of readiness toward foreign language learning in distance education. The students reported that distance education provided flexibility in space and time when learning a foreign language. However, many learners did not hold positive views on foreign language learning through distance education as it was not possible for them to improve their language skills such as speaking and writing in English along with lack of guidance and necessary interaction.
Building Partnerships With Families of Children With Disabilities
Authors: Gerry Margaret , Vesely Colleen K. , Choe Jihyae
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this chapter is to explore the experiences of immigrant families accessing special education in the United States while highlighting the critical role of culture in special education. The authors discuss legal underpinnings protecting families' access to special education processes, the diverse composition of the United States, and cultural beliefs and lenses that may influence how families engage in special education processes. The authors highlight the importance of directly supporting special education professionals in developing and practicing cultural humility, especially when engaging with from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. The chapter closes with recommendations for practice and implications for future research.
Empowering Black Families
Authors: Morris Pricella , Brown Monica , Matute-Chavarria Monique
Published: August 2023

Family engagement is an essential component to the success of all children in schools. Specifically, engaging and being at the center of the decision-making process is critical for their child's education and academic success. Schools are mandated by law to include parents in all special education processes and ensure that they are key members of their child's individual education program. However, Black children with and without disabilities have disparate negative experiences (i.e., communication barriers, unequal partnerships, lack of cultural awareness) in the education system when compared to their peers. Thus, it is critical that educators and other interested parties are intentional about addressing the inequities that create these negative experiences. The following approach of reimagining family engagement will move the field of education toward empowerment and the creation of equitable engagement practices for Black families of children with and without disabilities.
Family Engagement Through Holistic Support
Authors: Wilt Courtney L. , Carlson Sarah R. , Nyegenye Sylvia N.
Published: August 2023

This chapter advances a framework for family engagement encompassing the nuances of families of students with extensive support needs (ESN) through the concept of holistic support. Holistic support is the active and ongoing commitment of disability professionals to a) recognize students with disabilities and their families as whole, dynamic, and interconnected, b) understand, address, and connect family/student support needs across multiple domains, and c) expose and disrupt systems of oppression impacting the students and families they serve. This framework is explicated emphasizing the experiences of Black mothers and families of students with ESN as they navigate multiple forms of exclusion across social systems, such as education, healthcare, and long-term services. The chapter engages relevant literature, theory, and case study narratives to advance specific holistic support strategies such as utilizing informal community support networks, prioritizing belonging for students with ESN and their families, and addressing underlying barriers to trusting family partnerships.
Family Engagement and Service Delivery to People With Disabilities in Nigeria
Authors: Idris Zabiya , Adaka Terfa Ahon
Published: August 2023

Disability is seen as a common feature across borders and all nations around the world—no society exists without persons with disabilities. Often times, persons with disabilities are left unattended to by their family members to due negligence and lack of proper information. This chapter researched family engagement and service delivery to persons with disabilities (PWDs). It defined disability as a restriction of the functional level of an individual due to impairment and also discussed the types of disabilities such as visual and hearing impairment among others. Types of services for PWDs like educational and counseling, constraints in rendering the services to PWDs, as well as recommendations were also discussed.
Importance of Gender Inclusiveness in Sustainable Climate Change Education
Authors: Memon Falak Shad
Published: August 2023

This study investigates the importance of gender-inclusive climate change education programs and the challenges involved with designing such curriculum in rural Sindh, Pakistan. The study addresses three research areas: (1) perspectives and consequences of gender inclusivity in climate change education, (2) gender inclusivity's effect the efficacy and success of Sindh's rural climate change education initiatives, and (3) the hurdles to attaining gender equality in sustainable climate change education and its effect on the overall effectiveness of such initiatives. The qualitative research method was applied, and interviews were conducted from eight leading educationist in Pakistan. The findings show that women face various hurdles in climate change education, including restricted access to education, societal norms, and cultural barriers. However, research identifies various tactics and recommendations to improve gender inclusion, such as the promotion of female role models from best practices, the incorporation of gender viewpoints in curricula, as well as programs to empower women.
Ethical Dimensions of Sustainable Development
Authors: Ebua Ebua Jarvis
Published: August 2023

This chapter examines the ethical dimensions of sustainable development within the context of climate change education. It explores the intersection of philosophy, logistics, and climate change education. The chapter sheds light on ethical implications and considerations arising in pursuing sustainable development. It seeks to provide valuable insights for climate change analysts, policymakers, curriculum and instructional designers, faculty, administrators, teacher educators, and other stakeholders interested in averting the impact of climate change and fostering sustainable development.
Climate Change Reporting and the Role of Media in Shaping Public Discourse in Nepal
Authors: Uprety Sudeep , Palamanit Arkom , Techato Kuaanan
Published: August 2023

Though the role of media in climate change messaging has been understood in academic and public spheres, limited studies have been conducted and published, especially in the context of Nepal. A review of 65 readings highlights increased focus on behavior change communication than media advocacy, lack of innovation scope in funded media projects, absence of empirical research. The study recommends comprehensive study climate change reporting through framing and factor analysis to identify reasons and incentives.
Pedagogical Strategies to Enhance Climate Change Education Outcomes
Authors: Gisore Billiah Nyamoita , Njurai Evelyn
Published: August 2023

Global temperatures have soared since the Industrial Revolution some 140 years ago, with the ecosystems having a severe impact globally. Environmental issues are changing not only the normative lifestyles, but also the ethics and understanding of the world. Educating people on ways to relate to the habitat calls for adopting sustainable practices that reduce the impact on climate. Climate change education (CCE) is a new field of pedagogy that addresses the issues of climate change, but has no established model for implementation. The need for transformative learning with pedagogical approaches that incorporate diverse climate change learning experiences is required. The chapter therefore addresses the need for various aspects of climate change to be addressed as part of educational pedagogy and the need for a curriculum with climate-friendly, age-appropriate content. The possible strategies and the barriers that seem to hinder the achievement of educational outcomes are also examined.
Being a Rural Woman During Climate Change
Authors: Abukan Bilge , Görmüş Kübranur , Yildirim Filiz
Published: August 2023

Climate change affects all living things, and especially women in rural areas. Focusing on human-environment interaction, ubuntu offers a holistic perspective to interventions to reduce the destructive effects of not only the social environment but also the physical environment. The main purpose of the present study is to evaluate the impact of climate change on the lives of rural women with a bio-psycho-social perspective, in the focus of ubuntu philosophy, and offer social work intervention suggestions.
Convolution Neural Network
Authors: Satone Kalyani N. , Dhawale Chitra A. , Ulhe Pranjali B.
Published: August 2023

Convolutional neural network (CNN) carries spatial information—not all nodes in one layer are fully connected to nodes in the next layer; weights are shared. The main goal of CNN is to process large image pixel matrix and try to reduce high matrix dimensions without losing information, and to simplify the network architecture with weight sharing, reducing the number of trainable parameters in the network, which helped the model to avoid overfitting and as well as to improved generalization and still to give high performance with desired accuracy. So, CNN has become dominant in various computer vision tasks and is attracting interest across a variety of domains involving image processing. This chapter focuses on the foundation of CNN, followed by architecture of CNN, activation functions, applications, and recent trends in CNN.
Legal Studies Over the Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on International Peace and Security
Authors: Norouzi Nima
Published: August 2023

The main focus of this study is on the topic of the global epidemic of Covid-19 and international peace and security. The practice of the council indicates the expansion of its competencies and its extension from military to civilian threats. The council has twice before adopted resolutions on AIDS and Ebola, which have deemed the situation a threat to international peace and security. If the council wishes to apply the same logic to the description and assessment of the Covid-19, it will, as in the previous two cases, declare it a threat to international peace and security, given the extent of the spread of the disease. However, the Security Council became passive in the wind, and more than three months after the announcement of Covid-19 as a global epidemic by the World Health Organization, with the passage of UNSCR 2532 dated 1 July 2020, it considered international peace and security.
A Case Study on Intelligent Engineering Applications for Sustainability Using AI and ML Approaches
Authors: Nayak Rakesh , Ghugar Umashankar
Published: August 2023

This chapter discusses the potential of intelligent engineering applications in contributing to sustainable development efforts. The chapter highlights how these technologies can optimize energy efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance the sustainability of manufacturing processes and infrastructure systems. In addition, the acknowledges that implementing intelligent engineering practices is not without challenges, and outlines obstacles such as data quality, regulatory compliance, and ethical considerations that organizations must navigate to effectively implement and maintain these systems. By examining the potential benefits and challenges of intelligent engineering applications, it provides insights into how businesses, governments, and society can harness the power of these technologies to create a more sustainable future.
Effect of Envy on Intention to Cyberbully in Social Network Sites
Authors: Wen Bo , Hu Paul Jen-Hwa , Chiu Chao-Min
Published: August 2023

Research analyzing the growing, worrisome phenomenon of cyberbullying in social network sites (SNSs) tends to adopt a cognitive perspective. This study instead investigates SNS envy, an essential emotion often experienced by users, and its relationship with cyberbullying intentions. The authors apply appraisal theory of emotion as a framework to conceptualize the effects of SNS envy, then propose two competing views: a direct effect premised in general strain theory and an indirect effect rooted in moral disengagement theory. The examinations of these competing views use survey data gathered from Facebook. The results support the indirect but not the direct effect, suggesting that envy influences cyberbullying intentions through moral disengagement. This study explicates how envious users rationalize their cyberbullying behaviors by cognitively reinterpreting existing perceptions of the advantages exhibited by envied others in a SNS, which reveals the importance of considering negative emotions to explain the unsettling cyberbullying phenomenon more fully.
Survey on the psychosocial impact of COVID-19 on the Sri Lankan mental healthcare system and the needs of frontline healthcare workers in the post-covid era
Authors: Wijesinghe Chamara , Chandradasa Miyuru , Ranwella Piyumi , Samaranayake Achini , Wickrama Prabath , Gamage Nilanga , Siriwardane Gayani , Goonathilake Narmada , Perera Sayuri , Dahanayake Dulangi , Mendis Jayan , Ranasinghe Kapila
Published: August 2023

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic severely strained the healthcare in Sri Lanka. The subsequent economic crisis compounded this issue. Priority was given to treating those afflicted with COVID-19 and preventing its spread, and healthcare staff faced immense difficulties dealing with the situation. The psychosocial impact of COVID on health care staff has not been properly assessed or addressed.Objectives: A study was conducted to identify the psychosocial impact of COVID-19 among four different categories of health care workers, and perform a needs assessment among these groups.Methods: A convenient sample of frontline health workers, mental health teams, 1926 mental health helpline workers and 1990 Suwa Sariya emergency ambulance service staff were assessed via a self-administered questionnaire for mental health impact, work capacities and needs.Results: Among frontline workers (n=188), 42.5% experienced anxiety symptoms, 12.8% depressive symptoms and 4.1% suicidal thoughts. Most (58.9%) lacked a psychological support system at the workplace. Only 20% have accessed specific programs or services at their workplace to obtain support for mental health issues, and all have benefitted from them. All categories of health workers lacked training and resources.Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that a significant amount of health care workers undergo psychological problems in the course of their work especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The analysis reveals that Sri Lanka lacks structured psychological support systems for health workers and needs more resources and training. Psychological support for health workers through strengthening resources and training should be prioritised when planning service development.
The impact of COVID-19 on healthcare accessibility and financial risk protection in Sri Lanka
Authors: Nandasena Sumal , Gamage Anuji , Periyasamy Nithershini , Rismy Mohammad , Kumarendran Balachandran , Kasturiratne Anuradhani
Published: August 2023

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted the global economy, disrupted essential health services, and distorted social determinants of health, reducing healthcare accessibility and increasing financial risk.Aim: We aimed to assess the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare accessibility and financial risk protection in Sri Lanka.Methodology: We conducted a cross-sectional study on a representative sample (multi-stage sampling process) of 3151 households in 105 clusters representing all the districts of Sri Lanka. The data collection was conducted using an interviewer-administered questionnaire in early November 2021. This was important to classify three periods of interest, namely: (1) the pre-lockdown period (2) the nationwide lockdown period, and (3) the new normal period. (After Oct 1 to early November 2021).Results: Among 11,463 household occupants, 12.6% reported having chronic diseases, with 76.5% diagnosed prior to six months. The majority had heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes. Of them, 53.7% have been followed up during the lockdown, increasing to 80.8% in the new normal period. Provincial variations in expenses were observed, with the highest food expenses in the Western Province. Catastrophic health expenditures affected 9.5% and 3.4% of households at 10% and 25%, respectively.Conclusions: A considerable proportion of those having heart disease, high blood pressure, high blood sugar or diabetes mellitus were not followed up in the lockdown period and the first month of the new normal period. Antenatal care and family planning were the least affected. Participants had incurred high out-of-pocket expenditures for healthcare during the entire period.
Elimination of malaria from Sri Lanka and beyond; lessons for other countries in elimination phase
Authors: Wickremasinghe A. Rajitha
Published: August 2023

Elimination of malaria in 2012 was a major achievement in post-independent Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka missed a golden opportunity in 1963 when only 17 cases of malaria were reported in the country, but could not sustain the momentum resulting in a major resurgence in 1967/69. With the resurgence, the then malaria eradication programme was reverted back to a control programme that lasted for another 30 years. The WHO’s Roll Back Malaria Initiative launched in 1998 provided a renewed interest in malaria control and subsequent elimination. With targeted control activities, the burden of malaria started to decrease since year 2000. Although Sri Lanka had reached pre-elimination status as early as 2004, the ongoing separatist war at that time prevented a country-wide elimination drive being implemented. With cessation of hostilities in 2009 and Global Fund financing, both of which were crucial inputs, an elimination drive was launched in September 2009 which eventually eliminated indigenous malaria in November 2012 with malaria-free certification by WHO being obtained in September 2016. Since malaria elimination, the country forged on to the prevention of re-establishment phase primarily focusing on good public health practice that included intensified surveillance, both parasitological and entomological; quality assured diagnostic and treatment services; and advocacy at various levels including doctors. Despite these measures, an introduced case and a transfusion induced case of malaria have been reported. A new vector of urban malaria, Anopheles stephensi, was reported in December 2016. Prevention of re-establishment of malaria should be kept in the radar of public health until malaria is eradicated.
Sri Lanka has been a success story for WHO’s engagement in global public health
Authors: Singh Alaka
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Assessing the effectiveness of sample and RNA extract pool testing for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA by real time RT-PCR
Authors: Sulthan M. I. H. , Shihab S. R. M. , Iqbal B. N. , Pitawela A. P. , Noordeen F.
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Pooled testing is a cost-effective approach to increasing testing capacity during pandemics. This study analysed the effectiveness of pooling of samples and RNA extracts for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 by real time RT-PCR.Methods: Twenty SARS-CoV-2 positive samples with Ct value of 25–35 and 60 known negative samples based on initial PCR results were used for this study. The samples were used to prepare 2-, 4- and 8-fold pooled samples prior to extraction. The RNA extracts of a further 10 PCR positive samples were pooled to prepare 2-, 4- and 8-fold RNA extract pools. The Ct values of neat samples and pooled samples were compared using the paired t-test with a 95% confidence interval. The same was done for the neat RNA extracts and the extract pools.Results: The detection capacity was considerably lower when the pool size was increased from 2- to 8-fold in sample pooling, whereas pools of RNA extracts showed 100% detection from 2- to 8-fold dilution. The increase in Ct value of 2-, 4- and 8-fold sample dilutions were 1.69 ± 0.78, 3.84 ± 1.47 and 8.98 ± 2.25, respectively (P < 0.0001). However, there was a small rise in the Ct value of 2-, 4- and 8-fold extract pools (1.01 ± 0.38, 2.18 ± 0.82 and 3.05 ± 0.77, respectively).Conclusions: Large scale screening of asymptomatic individuals for SARS-CoV-2 can be maximised with optimal use of resources by 2- or 4-fold pooling of samples or 4- or 8-fold pooling of RNA extracts without significantly compromising the detection capacity.
Trunk hair removal treatment with diode laser 810nm in men population
Authors: Cannarozzo Giovanni , Pennati Beatrice Marina , Zingoni Tiziano
Published: August 2023

In the last years, hair removal has been one of the most common treatments performed for aesthetic purposes, especially in women. Nevertheless, even if it is less popular, the demand within men population has raised. The study aimed to assess the acceptability of the diode 810 nm treatment for hair removal on the back and chest area in men thanks to the speed of treatment and the absence of undesirable effects. For this study, 20 patients were treated for hair removal. They were men with a mean age of 30.5 (±7.3). They underwent 4 treatment sessions at 40-day intervals on the trunk (chest and back area). Patients ranged between a Fitzpatrick phototype I (20%, 4/20) to IV (15%, 3/20) (40% were type II and 25% type III). Moreover, patients were asked to report pain intensity sensation with a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Overall, in the study population, a hair reduction of 80.6% (±2.8) was registered in the treated areas. The device described in this study was demonstrated to be highly efficient in extended body areas and on difficult-to-treat hair follicles like on the back and chest in the men population.
A theoretical and clinical perspective of an embodied view in psychotherapy of somatic symptoms disorders
Authors: Moneta Maria Eugenia , Kaechele Horst
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we offer some ideas for the treatment of somatoform patients and related pathologies based on the concept of embodiment. Embodiment refers to the interplay between body and mind in behavior. The word refers to giving a body to something, “incarnate”. Spinoza wrote extensively about the topic in the 17th century. In the 20th century, picking up on Spinoza’s work, Damasio presented extensive and important neuro-scientific evidence that feelings can be direct perceptions of internal body states, substantiating the growing understanding of emotions and feelings as a core component of the embodied experience. Here, we summarize the evidence for the intersection of emotion and cognition in the body, which impinges on the effectiveness of using the body and movement in psychotherapy and the management of somatic symptoms and related disorders. We present evidence indicating that movement would be a way to reach unconscious processes dealing with body-mind interaction and body awareness.
Experiences and perceptions of undergraduate optometry students towards public eye care services in South Africa
Authors: Zulu Noxolo L. , Van Staden Diane
Published: August 2023

Background: Public eye care services in South Africa are relatively underdeveloped. This is, in part, due to optometry services historically being private sector-focussed, as well as a lack of ophthalmologists in the country. Optometry students who engage in service learning at public health facilities are well placed to share their perceptions of this service.Aim: To investigate the perceptions and experiences of optometry students regarding public eye care services in South Africa.Setting: Data were collected on the Phelophepa Health Care Train while it was stationed at Musina and Polokwane in 2019.Methods: A qualitative study was conducted using focus group interviews to collect data from South African optometry students. Two focus group sessions were held, with a total sample of 18 representing two different higher education institutions. Interview recordings were transcribed, and data were thematically analysed using interpretive content analysis.Results: Three main themes emerged, namely ‘inability to deliver quality services’, ‘negative perceptions about public eye care services’ and ‘potential to improve public eye care services’. Strengthening infrastructure and human resource capacity were seen as fundamental steps to improving public eye care services in South Africa.Conclusion: Strengthening public eye care services in South Africa is necessary in order to improve the experience-based perceptions of optometry students towards this sector. Addressing eye health system weaknesses through appropriate resourcing will likely contribute to attracting this potential future human resource to the sector, and assist in alleviating the shortage of human resources for eye health within South Africa’s public health service.Contribution: Optometry education and professional practice in South Africa is increasingly adopting a more public health approach. This shift towards strengthening public eye care services and improving human resources capacity for the same is both important and necessary to address unmet eye health needs in the country. However, current gaps and challenges within the public health system may deter new graduates in South Africa from choosing this practice path if the overall challenges of resourcing and capacity to deliver quality services are not addressed.
Constitutive aryl hydrocarbon receptor facilitates the regenerative potential of mouse bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells
Authors: Huang Jing , Wang Yi-Ning , Zhou Yi
Published: August 2023

The art of constructing an insightful literature review manuscript has witnessed an exemplar in the work of Oz et al (2023), wherein concept progression harmoniously merges with figures and tables. Reflecting on retrospective data science, it is evident that well-cited articles can wield a transformative influence on the Journal Citation Reports Impact Factor score, as exemplified by Robert Weinberg’s landmark on cancer (Hanahan and Weinberg, 2011). Here, we aim to spotlight a commendable contribution by Tuba Oz, Ajeet Kaushik, and Małgorzata Kujawska in this issue while pivoting towards identifying the hallmarks of a subpar literature review-elements that hinder rather than promote advancement. The hurdles and roadblocks encountered within subpar literature reviews are multifold. Anticipation of emerging trends, identification of challenges, and exploration of solutions remain conspicuously absent. Original Contributions fail to surface amidst the vast sea of pre-existing literature, with noticeable gaps amplified by the lack of illustrative figures and tables. The manuscript, at times, assumes a skeletal form, reflecting an attempt to accommodate an excess of references, leading to convoluted sentences laden with citations. In contrast, a potent solution lies in adopting a comprehensive approach. A nuanced and critical evaluation of sources can culminate in a robust discussion, surpassing the mere summarization of conclusions drawn by others. This approach, often dismissed, holds the potential to elevate clarity, coherence, and logical flow, ultimately inviting engaged readership and coveted citations. The critical necessity of integrating visionary insights is underscored and achieved through a rigorous analysis of pivotal concepts and innovative ideas. Examples can be harnessed to elucidate the application of these solutions. We advocate a paradigm shift, urging literature review writers to embrace the readers’ perspective. A literature review’s purpose extends beyond providing a comprehensive panorama; it should illuminate avenues for concept development within a specific field of interest. By achieving this balance, literature reviews stand to captivate a devoted readership, paving the way for manuscripts that are both widely read and frequently cited. The pathway forward requires a fusion of astute analysis and visionary insights, shaping the future of literature review composition.