bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural and Functional Disturbances of the Thoracic Aorta in Atherosclerosis of Various Gradations
Authors: Vrublevsky A. V. , Boshchenko A. A. , Bogdanov Yu. I. , Saushkin V. V. , Shnaider O. L.
Published: December 2023

Aim      To study global aortic circumferential strain in normal conditions and in atherosclerosis of various grades and to determine its role in prediction of structural and functional disorders of the thoracic aorta (TA) and coronary atherosclerosis using 2D speckle-tracking transesophageal echocardiography.

Material and methods  182 patients with typical or probable angina were examined. The control group consisted of 11 healthy volunteers. TA was visualized along its entire length. The height of each atheroma was measured, and the total number of plaques in the TA was determined. Five stages of TA atherosclerosis were identified. In the descending TA, the global peak systolic circumferential strain (GCS, %) and the global peak systolic circumferential strain normalized to pulse arterial pressure (PAP) (GCS / PAP∙100) were calculated. All patients underwent coronary angiography. The number of coronary arteries (CAs) with >50 % stenosis was determined, and the SYNTAX Score was calculated.

Results TA atherosclerosis was not detected in the control group. Among 182 patients, stage 1-5 TA atherosclerosis was found in 23 (12.6 %), 103 (56.6 %), 43 (23.6 %), 7 (3.8 %), and 6 (3.4 %) cases respectively. GCS and GCS / PAD decreased as the ultrasound stage of TA atherosclerosis increased as compared with the control group: 9.2 % and 15.3 for the control group; stage 1, 5.6 % and 8.9 (p<0.001); stage 2, 4.1 % and 5.9 (p<0.001); stage 3, 4 % and 5.8 (p<0.001); stage 4, 3.7 % and 4.9 (p<0.01); and stage 5, 2.6 % and 3.3 (p<0.01), respectively. ROC analysis showed that GCS ≥5.9 % (area under the curve, AUC, 0.94±0.03; p<0.001) and GCS / PAD ≥11.4 (AUC, 0.97±0.02; p <0.001) were predictors of intact TA. Also, GCS ≤4.85 % (AUC, 0.82±0.04; p<0.001) and GCS / PAD ≤8.06 (AUC, 0.87±0.03; p<0.001) were predictors of hemodynamically significant TA atherosclerosis (stages 3-5). GCS ≤4.05 % (AUC, 0.62±0.04; p=0.007) and GCS / PAD ≤5.95 (AUC, 0.61±0.04; p=0.018) were predictors of hemodynamically significant (>50 %) stenosing atherosclerosis of at least one CA. Furthermore, GCS ≤3.75 % (AUC, 0.67±0.07; p=0.039) and GCS / PAD ≤5.15 (AUC, 0.64±0.07; p=0.045) were predictors of severe and advanced coronary atherosclerosis (SYNTAX Score ≥22).

Conclusion      GCS and GCS / PAD are new diagnostic markers of structural and functional disorders of TA in atherosclerosis of various grades. GCS and GCS / PAD are independent predictors of high-grade TA atherosclerosis (stages 3-5) with GCS / PAD demonstrating the highest level of significance. GCS and GCS / PAD are non-invasive predictors of severe and advanced CA atherosclerosis.
Randomized Clinical Trial of Hybrid vs. Surgical vs. Percutaneous Multivessel Coronary Revascularization: 5‑year Follow-up of HREVS Trial
Authors: Ganyukov V. I. , Kochergin N. A. , Shilov A. A. , Tarasov R. S. , Kozyrin K. A. , Prokudina E. S. , Barbarash O. L. , Barbarash L. S.
Published: December 2023

Aim      To evaluate 5-year results of the HREVS (Hybrid REvascularization Versus Standarts) study.

Material and methods  The study included 155 consecutive patients with multivessel coronary artery disease who were randomized into 3 groups: coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) (n=50), hybrid coronary revascularization (HCR) (n=52) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) (n=53) according to the consensus of the cardiology team on the technical and clinical feasibility of each of the three coronary revascularization strategies. The primary endpoint of the study was residual ischemia 12 months after revascularization according to data of single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). Secondary endpoints were major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) over 5 years of follow-up, which included all-cause death, myocardial infarction, stroke, and clinically determined repeat myocardial revascularization.

Results Baseline characteristics of patients did not differ between study groups. Median residual ischemia determined by SPECT data after 12 months was not statistically significantly different in the CABG, HCR and PCI groups: 6.7 [4.6; 8.8]%, 6.4 [4.3; 8.5]% and 7.9 [5.9; 9.8]%, respectively (p=0.45). Mean follow-up period was 76.5 months (at least 60 months). There were no statistically significant differences in all-cause mortality between the CABG, HCR and PCI groups, 10.6, 12.8 and 8.2 %, respectively (p=0.23). Statistically significant differences between the groups of CABG, HCR and PCI in the incidence of myocardial infarction (12.8; 8.5 and 16.3 %; p=0.12), stroke (4.2; 6.4 and 10.2 % ; p=0.13), repeat revascularization for clinical indications (23.4; 23.4 and 34.7 %; p=0.11) were not observed either. However, the cumulative 5-year MACCE value was similar in the HCR group and the CABG group but significantly lower than in the PCI group (51.1, 51.1 and 69.4 %, respectively; p = 0.03).

Conclusion      HCR that combines advantages of PCI and CABG is a promising strategy for coronary revascularization in multivessel coronary artery disease. HCR demonstrates satisfactory long-term results comparable to those of CABG but superior to PCI. To confirm the safety and efficacy of HCR, a large multicenter study is required that would have a sufficient power to evaluate clinical endpoints.
Predictors of Atrial Fibrillation Developing in Hospital Stage After Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery
Authors: Mingalimova A. R. , Nefedova G. A. , Drapkina O. M.
Published: December 2023

Aim    To identify independent predictors associated with in-hospital atrial fibrillation (AF) following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).Material and methods     The study included 80 patients (88.75 % men) who had elective CABG surgery at the Sklifosovsky Research Institute of Emergency Medicine. Based on the development of AF during the hospital stage of treatment (up to 10 days after CABG surgery), patients were divided into two groups. The group with AF consisted of 19 patients, and the group without AF consisted of 61 patients. All patients underwent electrocardiography (ECG), transthoracic echocardiography (EchoCG) with calculation of the left ventricular (LV) geometry type, and assessment of operational indexes. During surgery, biopsy of a part of the right atrial (RA) appendage was taken from 61 patients to verify the severity of myocardial fibrosis on a four-score scale where 0 is no interstitial fibrosis, 1 is slight fibrosis, 2 is moderate fibrosis, and 3 is severe fibrosis.Results    All included patients had a low risk of developing postoperative complications according to the EuroSCORE II scale. According to EchoCG data, patients with AF had significantly higher ratios of left ventricular myocardial mass to body surface area (LVMM / BSA) (p = 0.0006) and of left atrial volume to body surface area (LA volume / BSA), p = 0.008). The distribution of patients by type of LV geometry was as follows: in the group with AF, 52.63 % (n=10) of patients were diagnosed with concentric LV hypertrophy (LVH) whereas in the group without AF, the majority of patients (83.60 %, n=51) had normal LV geometry and concentric LV remodeling (LVR) (p<0.0001). According to the results of histological study, patients of the AF group more frequently had moderate and severe interstitial fibrosis in the AF appendage (p = 0.003). After multivariate regression and ROC analysis, the predictive value remained for concentric LVH (p=0.002), LVMM / BSA ratio ≥97 g / m2 (p=0.006), LA volume / BSA ratio ≥ 34.4 ml / m2 (p=0.04), and for RA appendage interstitial fibrosis score ≥2 (p=0.004). Based on the identified predictors, a regression model was developed to predict the development of AF at the hospital stage after CABG (p<0.0001). The sensitivity and specificity of the model were 86.67 % and 78.26 %, respectively.Conclusion    In patients at low perioperative risk, the LVMM / BSA ratio ≥97 g / m2, the LA volume ratio / BSA ≥34.4 ml / m2, a RA appendage interstitial fibrosis score ≥2, and the presence of LVH were independent predictors of the development of AF at the hospital stage after CABG operation.Conclusion In patients at low perioperative risk, a LVMM / BSA ratio ≥97 g / m2, a LA volume / BSA ratio ≥34.4 ml / m2, a RA appendage interstitial fibrosis score ≥2, and the presence of LVH were independent predictors of the development of AF at the hospital stage after CABG.
Efficacy and Organoprotection of Triple Combinations in the Treatment of Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Serdechnaya E. V.
Published: December 2023

The 2022 draft Russian guidelines on arterial hypertension recommend initiation of antihypertensive therapy with a combination of drugs in most patients with blood pressure above 150 / 90 mm Hg and / or in the presence of high-risk criteria. In 2021, the results of a 12-year analysis of the Brisighella Heart Study (BHS) were published. The aim of this study was to compare the use of different triple antihypertensive drug combinations in an Italian cohort of patients in real-life clinical practice. Combination antihypertensive therapy with a renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitor, amlodipine, and thiazide/thiazide-like diuretics provides a better blood pressure control compared to other antihypertensive drug combinations. The use of the triple combination of amlodipine/indapamide/perindopril is associated with a better metabolic profile than any other considered combination of antihypertensive drugs and a more pronounced organ-protective effect.
La narración como medio de soporte emocional y participación ciudadana durante la pandemia
Authors: Castro Romero Oswaldo
Published: December 2023

During the pandemic physical interaction was restricted as a confinementmeasure. However, these provisions caused emotional problems such associal isolation, stress, and communication problems. This work presentsthe implementation of a program based on Design Thinking and storytellingas a means of socioemotional support and communicative and formativepractices to promote citizen participation. A total of 63 persons of differentnationalities and ages participated in a six-session program in a hybrid format.Activities consisted of inquiring, exploring everyday situations, and analyzinglocal problems. The research methodology was qualitative and ethnographicand data was collected from written reflections, semi-structured interviews,observations, and product analysis. Storytelling served as means to elicitsupport, to allow people’s voices to be heard, and to empathize. Likewise,it is a means to communicate facts, inform, raise awareness, and increasemotivation for informed decision-making and the reconfiguration of thesocial fabric in moments of crisis such as the pandemic. The local communityplayed a fundamental role as a mediator and generator of social and effectiveties. This research highlights the importance of storytelling in non-formaleducation for developing lifelong learning skills wherein citizens find spacesfor constructive dialogue, social interaction, emotional support, and theconstruction of active identities for their well-being and social transformation.
Configuraciones del Desarrollo Profesional Docente.
Authors: Riaño Jiménez Ingrid Elisa , Riscanevo Espitia Lida Esperanza
Published: December 2023

In this article, elements are presented to problematize the professional development of teachers from the state of the art in a doctoral research project whose purpose is to analyze and understand how the training of teachers who teach mathematics in primary basic education in Colombian education has been, with a look at the Latin American context. It is assumed that in the conceptualization of teacher professional development, the reference to inservice teacher training and the ways in which teacher professionalization is configured is sustained in a systemic and dynamic manner. The analysis has been carried out qualitatively from a methodological adaptation of the grounded theory (Wolfswinkel et al., 2013). From this analysis, it can be seen in broad strokes that in the Latin American region there is a trend of technical training in accordance with the international market agenda; however, from the context of school mathematics, spaces for collaborative, investigative and reflective participation of teachers are glimpsed to question aspects and elements of pedagogical practice and to resolve situations over time that give meaning to their professional development. The increase in discussions and practices around the professional development of teachers has fostered a field of research in which the teacher is recognized as a subject who learns and who, in addition, produces knowledge; These elements provide important questions in the planning and implementation of public teacher training policies.
Aspectos críticos y recomendaciones para atender procesos de innovación curricular en el contexto universitario
Authors: Cifuentes Gary , Guerrero Farías María Lucía , Solano Vargas Andrea Del Pilar
Published: December 2023

This document is built upon the results of a research conducted at the University of the Andes between 2021 and 2022, which analyzed how the university responds curricularly to the changes occurring in the professions. What the reader will find are nine critical aspects that turn out to be key dimensions when thinking about curricular innovation processes. These critical points are presented as a set of risks to the extent that curricular reforms are taken as an essentially technical task solely focused on accountability without any form of institutional reflection. Therefore, for each associated critical point, a recommendation is proposed that aims to understand how different aspects of curricular innovation should be addressed.
Potential Bacteria Isolated from Contaminated Sites as Bio-degraders of Various Types of Plastic
Authors:   the Graduate Program in Environmental and Water Resources Engineering, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Mahidol University, Nakhonpathom, Thailand, Wichatham Kawinthip , Piyaviriyakul Pitchaya , Boontanon Narin , Surinkul Nawatch , Boontanon Suwanna Kitpati
Published: December 2023

The growing demand for plastics and their improper disposal have resulted in a significant environmental pollution problem. While various management strategies have been employed to tackle this issue, the persistence of plastic pollutants in the environment is still a major concern. Therefore, exploring and developing sustainable and environmentally safe techniques, such as biodegradation using potential bacteria, can help mitigate plastic pollution and provide a viable solution. The purpose of this study was to isolate and identify potential bacteria for degrading plastics from six soil samples collected from five plastic-contaminated sites. The population of microorganisms in the soil ranged from 1.9 ×105 to 8.2 × 104 CFU/g. The screening of biodegradation abilities to degrade various types of plastics, including Polypropylene (PP), Polystyrene (PS), Polyethylene (PE), Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and Polylactic acid (PLA) (Bioplastic), as measured by the diameters of the clear zones surrounding the colonies, revealed that out of 40 strains, only 8 strains could degrade various types of plastics. These bacteria were identified using 16S rRNA genes, which showed that NBI0106, NBI0108, NBI0109, and NBI0111 tend to be Streptomyces ardesiacus with similarity 99%, NBI0113 tend to be Pseudomonas plecoglossicida with similarity 99%, and NBI0305 tend to be Streptomyces cellulosae with similarity 100%. In addition, The Streptomyces ardesiaca strain NBI0111 demonstrated the highest degradation efficiency for PP plastic, with a clear zone diameter of 32.19  0.34 mm. This study shows the importance of identifying bacteria in plastic-contaminated soils and landfills, which may lead to the discovery of more effective bacteria strain with the capacity to degrade various types of plastic in real environmental conditions.
Reduction of Plastic Waste in Tourism Activities in Sam Son City, Viet Nam
Authors:   the Institute for Tourism Development Research, Hanoi, Vietnam, Vinh Truong Sy , Thang Nguyen Trung , Van Nguyen Thuy , Herat Sunil
Published: December 2023

Pollution caused by plastic waste (PW) is becoming urgent, causing negative impacts on tourism development in Viet Nam. This study aims to determine the amount of PW generated in Sam Son, especially from tourism activities. It proposes solutions to reduce PW in the tourism sector in the coastal city of Sam Son, Thanh Hoa province, Viet Nam. A survey of tourists, households, and accommodation establishments carried out the assessment of PW generation. The pilot activity was conducted by providing alternative products to selected hotels to replace single-use plastics. The results show that PW generation from tourism accounts for 42.42% of domestic solid waste. The estimated average rate of PW generation per visitor is about 0.4kg/person/day. The COVID-19 pandemic is estimated to have reduced the PW generated in this sector by about 40%. Although it may result in a 1.4-fold increase in expenses, tourism accommodation establishments and visitors have responded positively to activities replacing single-use plastic products. To reduce PW from tourism in Sam Son, several solutions are proposed, including implementing the extended producer responsibility (EPR) mechanism effectively; implementing a roadmap to eliminate single-use plastic products; building technical infrastructure for classification, collection, and treatment; developing a plan to reduce PW in Thanh Hoa province; promoting and raising awareness and understanding about PW.
Desertification Susceptibility Assessment Using Expert-Based Approach in Al-Khidhir District, Southern Iraq
Authors:   the Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang, Malaysia. Yasir Abdulameer Nayyef Aldabbagh and Shattri Mansor are also with Geospatial Information Science Research Centre (GISRC), Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang, Malaysia, Aldabbagh Yasir Abdulameer Nayyef , Shafri Helmi Zulhaidi Mohd , Mansor Shattri , Ismail Mohd Hasmadi
Published: December 2023

Desertification is a serious threat to environment, agriculture, and public health all over the world. Iraq is concerned about desertification, particularly in the southern regions. As a result, this project will use geospatial methodologies to measure desertification susceptibility in Al-Khidhir, Al-Muthanna. The assessment was based on Landsat 5 TM data from 1998, Landsat 7 ETM+ data from 2008, and Landsat 8 OLI data from 2018. A Multicriteria Decision-Making (MCDM) technique based on the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) was developed to assess the spatial distribution of desertification in the research area and the likelihood that it will occur soon. An examination of the geographical distribution of desertification in Al-Khidhir in 1998 indicated that desertification was most prevalent in the southern region, accounting for 25.9% of the total. Desertification spread to neighboring areas and increased (50.8%) in the research region’s north in 2008. The findings suggested that using satellite photos, such as Landsat, can be extremely effective for assessing desertification.
Assessment of Surface Water Quality of Huai Luang River in Udon Thani, Thailand, Using the Water Quality Index
Authors:   the Department of Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Udon Thani Rajabhat University, Udon Thani, Thailand, Phitaktim S. , Wangka-orm C. , Wesetsri S. , Togari T. , Sato S. , Wongaree M.
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to analyze the surface water quality of the Huai Luang River using the water quality index (WQI) method. Five parameters were analyzed to assess the water quality of the Huai Luang River; they were dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), total coliform bacteria (TCB), fecal coliform bacteria (FCB), and ammonia (NH3). The Huai Luang River is the municipality’s primary consumption water source in Udon Thani province, Thailand. WQI classifications were calculated by using the surface water quality standards program of Thailand’s Pollution Control Department (PCD-WQI). The results showed that the water quality in the Huai Luang River was bad status, in the WQI range of 54-60 scores. The major sources of pollutants in the Huai Luang River were wastewater from communities, agriculture, and animal farms are the main contributors to water pollution. Seasonal water quality variations were observed at each monitoring site from March 2022 to February 2023. WQI concentration in the rainy season (March to June) was generally among the highest (57 score) compared with other seasons (56 score in winter and 54 score in summer). While the WQI concentration of the upstream sampling site (domestic wastewater) had the lowest (55 score) compared with the other sites (59 score for midstream and 60 score for downstream). Therefore, this research study presented valuable information on WQI for the Huai Luang River for water quality management by administrators and local community participation.
Surface Water Quality in Urban Areas in Southern Most Province of Vietnam
Authors:   College of Environment and Natural Resources, Can Tho University, Vietnam, Hong Tran Thi Kim , Mi Le Thi Diem , Giao Nguyen Thanh
Published: December 2023

This study aims to assess the influence of socioeconomic activities on surface water quality in the Ca Mau province. Water quality data were collected at 14 locations in 2021. Water quality index (VN_WQI), hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), Pearson correlation and principal component analysis (PCA) were applied in the study. The results showed that the surface water quality was contaminated organic matters (TSS, BOD, COD) and coliform. Water quality was assessed from poor to medium levels by VN_WQI and the water quality is unsuitable for direct irrigation purposes. The results also showed that water quality at Ganh Hao river fork (S2) was the most polluted. HCA classified water quality into three groups based on the similarity of water quality parameters. Pearson correlation results indicated organic pollution, nutrients and microorganisms were mutually related. PCA explained 83.60% of the total variance with three PCs. Ten parameters were identified as the key water parameters influencing surface water quality and these parameters should be continuously monitored. The water pollution sources were possibly urban and market activities, production facilities discharge and salinity intrusion.
A Study of Factors Affecting the Self-managerial Skills of Undergraduate Students on Online Learning
Authors:   the Department of Learning Innovation and Technology, Faculty of Industrial Education and Technology, King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, Bangkok, Thailand, Tayaborworn Kanjana , Suksakulchai Surachai
Published: December 2023

Nowadays, undergraduate students have to change from on-site classroom learning to online learning; hence, building self-managerial skills is essential to their success in online learning. The goal of this study was to investigate the impact of various factors on undergraduate students’ self-managerial skills in online learning. A questionnaire was designed and distributed directly to respondents via the online system, and 1,057 valid responses were collected and evaluated. In this study, the data were analyzed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and multiple regression techniques. The current findings revealed that self-appraisal (SA), planning skills (PSSP), organizing skills (PSSO), evaluating skills (PSSE), and interpersonal skills (IPS) had effects on self-managerial skills (SMS) of undergraduate students in Thailand. This study has a benefit for professors or lecturers who must design and build modern online classroom through an online learning management system that enhances the competency of undergraduate students’ self-management skills and prepares them for future careers.
Conceptual Representation of the Source-Code to Support the Learning of Object-Oriented Programming Concepts
Authors:   the Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 739-8527, Japan, Khudhur Nawras , Nurmaya  , Hayashi Yusuke , Hirashima Tsukasa
Published: December 2023

Learning Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) concepts is a challenging task for novice learners. Previous research has examined the impact of either conceptual or practical knowledge on students’ comprehension of OOP; however, there is a lack of integration between these two knowledge bases. This study proposes a novel approach that integrates theoretical and practical knowledge of OOP using a concept map to create a unified cognitive diagram that reflects the educator’s understanding of the subject matter. This diagram is then used as the basis for a recomposition activity that supports student learning. An experiment is conducted in a classroom environment with 75 undergraduate grade-2 university students to investigate the effects of the proposed method. The experimental results showed that the proposed method significantly improved students’ comprehension of OOP concepts, doubling their performance compared to the conventional method from pre-test to post-test. In addition, the proposed approach has the potential for early identification of low-performing students, thus allowing educators to provide targeted support to improve their learning outcomes. The integrated cognitive diagram approach proposed in this study has practical implications for educators seeking to improve the teaching of OOP concepts and identify and support low-performing students.
Enhancing Learners’ Performance: Exploring the Combined Impact of Web-Based Mathematics Self-Learning and Homework Resources on Classroom Test Scores
Authors:   Laboratory of Applied Mathematics and Scientific Calculus (LMACS), Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Beni Mellal, Morocco, Oumelaid Najim , El-Mrabte Faouzi , El-Boukari Brahim , Elghodraf Jalila
Published: December 2023

This study delves into innovative methods of learning mathematics beyond traditional classrooms, specifically focusing on web-based strategies that resonate with modern learners’ inclination toward technology such as online videos and internet resources. The research’s core objectives include identifying diverse self-directed learning approaches in mathematics beyond the classroom and evaluating their effectiveness in student performance. To achieve these goals, the study employs a methodology encompassing interviews with both mathematics learners and teachers, alongside the administration of a Google Forms questionnaire. Data analysis employs SPSS 23. The study’s outcomes underscore a robust connection between the utilization of videos and achieving elevated scores in mathematics tests. In contrast, other resources like group work exhibit a negative correlation, albeit without statistical significance. This observation accentuates the significance of prudent resource utilization, as improper deployment can detrimentally affect student performance. The study’s implications hold value for educators, suggesting the endorsement of video resources to learners, even in cases when video production proves challenging and digital learning platforms present limitations. By recommending engaging online resources like videos, this research contributes to elevating pedagogical practices, aligning with learners’ preferences, and furnishing effective tools to bolster their educational journey.
Online Small Groups Talk in English Collaborative Prewriting Phase Viewed from Social Presence Frame
Authors:   English Education Department, Universitas Negeri Semarang UNNES, Indonesia, Yuniarti Yuniarti , Mujiyanto Januarius , Rukmini Dwi , Fitriati Sri Wuli
Published: December 2023

During the COVID-19, the students of Indonesian tertiary conducted teaching and learning activities with distance learning or distance learning in the English academic writing course. The novelty of the current study is that small groups talk in the collaborative prewriting phase via WhatsApp using social presence framework. This study investigated what students talked about while doing academic writing tasks at a private university in Indonesia. The methodology applied a descriptive quantitative. The instruments used were observation and questionnaires. We conducted observation in chatrooms. The questionnaire was distributed to find out the students’ responses to the prewriting process from the fifteen participants. For the observation data, we used the content analysis technique, textual data were coded into social presence indicators using Nvivo12 software. The questionnaire was validated by employing content and construct validity with two expert judgments. The findings showed that four groups constructed collaborative floors, positive responses, organization, language, content, task negotiation, and shared resources with different contributions. In performing identity online, eight dominant students in each group took more roles than others. The result of students’ responses was that they perceived discussion online in the collaborative prewriting phase. The study recommends that small online groups talk in the synchronous joint prewriting phase promotes social presence and assist the students in enhancing critical thinking skill and academic writing.
Applying Dynamic Geometry Environment Software as a Visualization Tool for Teaching Planimetry Construction Tasks
Authors:   NCJSC, Higher School of Natural Sciences and Pedagogy, Mukhtar Auezov South Kazakhstan University, Shymkent, Kazakhstan, Tursynkulova Elmira , Madiyarov Nurlybay
Published: December 2023

The present study addresses a notable gap in the current pedagogical research by rigorously examining the impact of Augmented Reality (AR) on mathematics education, specifically focusing on two-dimensional (2D) plane geometry construction tasks. Our primary aim is to discern and articulate the unique contributions of AR as a pedagogical tool in this domain. Employing a quasi-experimental design, we engaged with 141 high school students, dividing them into two distinct groups: one receiving instruction through AR tools and the other via traditional teaching methods. Performance metrics were derived from pre- and post-construction tests as well as an attitudinal survey gauging students’ perceptions of AR. Our findings reveal that the AR-facilitated group showcased a marked improvement in post-test scores and exhibited a more positive attitude towards AR technology compared to the traditionally taught cohort. This point towards AR’s potential to significantly elevate comprehension and engagement levels in 2D geometry construction. The study further highlights the transformative potential of AR in bolstering students’ enthusiasm and curiosity in mathematical endeavors. The results presented herein emphasize the pressing need for extended research to gauge AR’s broader and sustained effects in mathematics education and its applicability across various mathematical disciplines.
The Effectiveness of E-Collaborative Learning in Developing Digital Thinking Skills among Teachers in the Light of Connectivism Theory
Authors:   Faculty of Educational Sciences, Jadara University, Irbid, Jordan, Aldalalah Osamah Mohammad Ameen , Alhalaq Ali Sami Ali , Eyadat Yousef Ahmed
Published: December 2023

The current study aimed to find out the effectiveness of Electronic Collaborative Learning (ECL) in developing digital thinking skills among teachers in the light of connectivism theory. The researchers used the quantitative method (quasi-experimental). The actual number of the study sample consisted of 32 teachers from the digital skills diploma teachers for the primary stage at Taibah University who were registered in the Advanced Digital Applications course (CS552) in the second semester of the academic year 2021–2022. They were distributed randomly into two groups. The researchers used three instruments in the study, the first instrument: testing the concepts of digital thinking skills, the second instrument: observation for digital thinking practices, and the third instrument: a questionnaire was adapted of teachers’ attitudes to digital thinking. This is done by analyzing the sample responses of the parameters on the three study instruments (testing the concepts of digital thinking, the digital thinking skills observation card, and its questionnaire about attitude towards digital thinking). The results showed that there was an effectiveness of electronic collaborative learning in developing digital thinking skills for teachers in the light of communication theory. Based on the results, the researchers recommended activating electronic collaborative learning based on connectivism theory to develop digital thinking skills.
The Use of Serious Games in Physics: A Review of Selected Empirical Studies from 2012 to 2021
Authors:   Laboratory of Computer Science and Interdisciplinary Physics (LIPI), ENS, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, B.P 5206 Bensouda Fez, Morocco, Achour Mohamed , Khouna Jalal , Tahiri Ahmed
Published: December 2023

Serious games have been proven to be effective in enhancing students learning of physics. Many educators have investigated the integration of serious games in the classroom for formal educational settings. In addition, they have reviewed the trends development of game-assisted learning in many review papers. However, in the subject of physics, the analysis of the development of Serious games is still limited and overlooked problem. As a consequence, this research paper aims to conduct a systematic review of the empirical studies related to the use of serious games in physics teaching between 2012 and 2021. A total of 80 articles were included from Scopus and Web of Science databases. Based on an in-depth analysis of the quantitative data, several significant insights were generated in this study including the following : (1) the number of published articles has witnessed a dramatic growth in 2021; (2) computers and education are the main contributing journals in the empirical studies; (3) the highest proportion of the physics topics is the mechanics theme; (4) junior high school students were the most involved as sampling groups; (5) quantitative methodology design was adopted in the majority of selected papers; (6) American authors have contributed the most via a high number of publications; (7) cognitive outcomes were the major investigated research foci in Serious games-related studies. Along with the systematic review, this study has implicitly indicated some implications and suggestions that are in need of further research and discussion.
ESG and firm performance: The role of digitalization
Authors: Eriandani Rizky , Winarno Wahyu Agus
Published: December 2023

Research aims: This research aims to examine the impact of social, environmental, and governance (ESG) responsibilities on firm performance – books and markets. It also analyzes the role of digitalization in the relationship between ESG and firm performance.Design/Methodology/Approach: The population in this study was all companies listed on the Indonesian Stock Exchange in 2017-2021. The sampling technique used purposive sampling with a total sample of 347 firm-years. Testing hypotheses moderated regression analysis and subgroup analysis.Research findings: Empirical findings demonstrated that ESG responsibilities could improve company performance, both book performance and market performance. On the contrary, digitization could not boost the company's performance. Moreover, digitalization was unable to moderate the relationship between the two. However, when the samples were separated based on digitization variables, the results revealed that ESG had a positive impact on performance only in companies that adopted digital technology.Theoretical contribution/Originality: In addition to enriching literature related to agency and stakeholder theory, this research reinforces empirical evidence of the role of ESG in increasing the value of the company. The results also highlight digital adoption to support environmentally and socially responsible activities. Nevertheless, the impact of digitization on company performance has not been proven. This research contributes to the literature about ESG and digitalization that imply corporate value creation.Practitioner/Policy implication: This research contributes to corporate management to enhance social and environmental responsibility, as well as prompt adoption of digital technology.Research limitation/Implication: This research has some limitations. First, the sample was limited because not all companies in Indonesia had ESG scores in Bloomberg. Second, the measurement of digitalization on the sub-sample only used a dummy and did not differentiate the type of digitization that the company adopted.
An assessment of dermatoglyphic patterns correlation with the sagittal skeletal discrepancies and oral clefts: A clinical research
Authors: Wani Mohsin Aslam , Sangal Shikha , Shukla Diptiman , Amir Mohd. , Trivedi Shashank
Published: December 2023

The aim of the present research study was to assess the correlation of various Dermatoglyphic patterns with the sagittal skeletal discrepancies and oral clefts.

Pre-treatment digital lateral cephalograms of forty patients were taken in natural head position obtained. The sagittal jaw relation was determined with assessment of the following parameters: SNA, SNB, ANB, Wit’s appraisal, condylion to Point A, condylion to gnathion, angle of convexity and facial angle (Steiner’s, Down’s, McNamara and Wits Appraisal). The Dermatoglyphic of patients were taken with the help of Cummins and Midlo method. The fingerprints were recorded using the ink stamp method. The dried distal phalanges of both hands were rolled on an ink pad and stamped on paper which was fixed in place with adhesive tape. The prints obtained were assessed for the frequency of arches, loops and whorls.

The dermatoglyphic results that were noted among the 4 groups showed a significant 38% of Arch pattern prevalent in the Class I subjects, 61% of Whorl pattern in Class II subjects, 67% of Loop pattern in Class III subjects and 71% of Loop pattern in Cleft subjects. The percentage distribution of the Dermatoglyphic patterns within the three groups of sagittal skeletal discrepancies and clefts for the 10 fingers (N=40) were evaluated for their significant association based on Fisher’s exact test. Furthermore, Chi-square test indicated a statistically significant (p<0.001) association between the dermatoglyphic patterns and sagittal skeletal discrepancies and clefts, more than 54% of Class I subjects showed a positive correlation with Arch pattern, 33 % of Class III subjects and 35% of Cleft subjects indicated Loop pattern prevalence, whereas 46% of the Class II subjects showed a high tendency for the Whorl pattern.

No significant type of Dermatoglyphic pattern in Skeletal Class I malocclusions. There was increased frequency of Whorl pattern in Skeletal Class II malocclusions and increased frequency of Loop pattern in Skeletal Class III malocclusions and clefts. The patients with the oral clefts generally don’t have the proper maxillary development due to which they have the tendency towards the development of Skeletal Class III malocclusion, so presence of loop pattern in Class III malocclusion and oral clefts was seen.
A aguardente artesanal (tua-sabu) e sua importância sociocultural no Timor-Leste: uma revisão
Authors: Belo Lúcio , Dias Láisa Gomes , Lobo Junior Eulicio De Oliveira , Alves Roger Pereira , Oliveira Tatianne Ferreira de , Pereira Julião
Published: December 2023

A tua-sabu é uma aguardente típica de Timor-Leste, que é feita a partir da seiva de palmeiras. Essa bebida possui uma longa história desde os tempos antigos e sempre foi reconhecida e valorizada em eventos culturais como cerimônias rituais e outras celebrações importantes. A produção do tua-sabu envolve a colheita da seiva, fermentação natural, destilação, separação de frações e engarrafamento. A bebida apresenta aspectos de qualidade de cor, sabor e aroma diferenciados, sendo uma das bebidas tradicionais mais valorizadas pelos consumidores timorenses. Para a maioria da comunidade agrícola timorense, a produção do tua-sabu é uma fonte de renda familiar e de provisões para as necessidades diárias. Todavia, é crucial aprimorar as técnicas e etapas de produção visando garantir os produtos artesanais, uma vez que ainda falta controle de qualidade para fins de consumo e a inserção no mercado. A falta de infraestrutura laboratorial e normas técnicas específicas de controle, podem comprometer a qualidade e a segurança dos produtos, o que acarreta um risco para a saúde dos consumidores. Esta revisão teórica se faz necessária pois o processo e as etapas de produção de tua-sabu em Timor-Leste é ainda pouco explorado e documentado, sendo um passo para divulgação científica que visa ao desenvolvimento desta bebida típica, amplamente consumida pelos timorenses e pouco conhecida pelo mundo afora.
Plantas medicinais usadas por benzedeiras do quilombo de Segredo, Bahia, no tratamento de distúrbios gastrointestinais: quando o saber popular se encontra com o científico
Authors: Silva Silvana Souza , Alves Reinaldo José Campos , Juiz Paulo José Lima
Published: December 2023

O uso de plantas medicinais é uma prática milenar passada de geração em geração de forma empírica, consistindo em uma alternativa de tratamento e prevenção de várias enfermidades, incluindo os distúrbios gastrointestinais. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo, apresentar plantas medicinais usadas para tratamento de distúrbios gastrointestinais que são usadas por benzedeiras de uma comunidade reconhecida pela Fundação Palmares como remanescente do quilombo de Segredo, localizada no município de Souto Soares – Bahia, e correlacionar esse saber tradicional com o conhecimento científico. Para levantamento do saber popular, foram realizadas entrevistas com benzedeiras da região. Considerando a infecção bacteriana como umas das causas de distúrbios gastrointestinais, a atividade antibacteriana dos chás medicinais preparados pelas benzedeiras foi avaliada pelo método de microdiluição em placa de 96 poços. Os resultados mostraram que os chás das plantas Amburana cearensis, Lippia alba, Cymbopogon densiflorus, Senna occidentalis, Cenostigma pyramidale são usados tradicionalmente para aliviar sintomas causados por distúrbios gastrointestinais. Entretanto, na concentração de 50%v/v, não mostraram atividade antibacteriana contra Escherichia coli enterotoxigênica (ATCC11105), Escherichia coli enteropatogênica (ATCC25922), Shigella dysenteriae (CT) (ATCC 13313) e Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Typhimurium (ATCC14028). É notória a importância do conhecimento tradicional associado ao uso de plantas medicinais, especialmente para a comunidade onde o estudo foi realizado, e é notória a importância do diálogo entre o saber científico e tradicional. Apesar de, laboratorialmente, não ter sido comprovada a atividade antibacteriana dos chás, o uso medicinal para alívio de sintomas relacionados a distúrbios gastrointestinais foi comprovado pela literatura científica.
LINGUO-COGNITIVE ANALYSIS OF A LITERARY TEXT
Authors: Myronova Natalia , Poltoratska Alla , Romanchuk Svitlana , Bernatska Svitlana , Boklakh Dmytro
Published: December 2023

The work is devoted to the study of the linguo-cognitive analysis of the literary text in the aspect of linguistic means of expressing concepts and images. The relevance of this article is due to the growing attention to the analysis of the literary text using the methods and techniques of cognitive linguistics. The main aspects of cognitive linguistics, lingua-cognitive analysis, and text as an object of cognitive linguistics research are widely covered in the work. The main features of the literary text, its components, and lingua-cognitive analysis of linguistic means of expressing concepts and images are defined. The purpose of the research is to reveal the lingo-cognitive analysis of the literary text in the aspect of linguistic means of expressing concepts and images. The object of research is a literary text as material for lingua-cognitive research. Research methods. Such research methods such as description, analysis and synthesis, comparison, generalization, cognitive analysis, linguistic analysis, and modelling were used in the work. The article reveals the lingua-cognitive analysis of the literary text in terms of linguistic means of expressing concepts and images. The essence of the concept of “cognitive linguistics” and the main aspects of this phenomenon are characterized. The interpretation of the term “lingua-cognitive analysis” is defined. The essence of the “text” concept and the classification features of the text are described. The scientific work describes the features of the literary text. The components of the literary text influencing the lingua-cognitive analysis are characterized. Such elements of the literary text as image, concept, character, and evaluation are summarized.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Environmental Activities in the Russian Federation: Problems and Prospects
Authors: Pivovarova O.V. , Konishchev E.S.
Published: December 2023

The issues of financing environmental protection activities are considered and the relevance of this topic is emphasized in the light of assessing its effectiveness using the example of Russia. An econometric study was conducted based on the volume of investment in capital for environmental protection and the values of key environmental indicators using the method of regression analysis. The lack of sufficient connection between investments and environmental indicators was revealed. A conclusion was made about the need for more comprehensive research, as well as the advisability of using systemic measures, including non-financial ones, to improve environmental activities.
Evaluation of the bone marrow transplantat recipient patients regarding fever onset, fever permanence, risk factors, and underlying causes, during the pre-engraftment phase
Authors: Mesgarian Masoume , Shadvar Sahar , Zangene Mehrangiz , Nodehi Seyyed Reza Safaee
Published: December 2023

Background: Patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation (BMT) are at higher risk of immune system deficiency. The immunosuppression, followed by pre-transplant chemotherapy makes patients vulnerable to a variety of infections, and fever is one of the first symptoms, which could develop as a result of infectious or non-infectious diseases. In the present study, the features of the fever during the pre-engraftment stage in BMT-receiving patients have been investigated.
Materials and Methods: Sixty-four patients receiving BMT were prospectively evaluated during the pre-engraftment phase to evaluate the evidence of the febrile reaction. Data concerning the cause of fever, microbiological tests, the treatments and fever onset pattern, and treatment outcomes were recorded and analyzed.
Results: 73.4% of the patients had autologous transplants, and the others received allogeneic. After transplantation, 75% of patients encountered fever during the pre-engraftment period. Of the 48 patients, 47.9% of the patients suffered from fever of unknown origin (FUO). Age, gender, underlying malignancy, type of transplantation, and acute phase reactants levels before transplantation were not associated with fever development. Among febrile patients, patients with autologous transplantation were significantly more likely to develop FUO (p-value = 0.036) There was also no significant difference in the onset of fever between patients with infectious fever and who suffered FUO
Conclusions: During BMT, half of the patients developed a fever of unknown origin; nevertheless, it seems that patients undergoing autologous transplantation are at higher risk of FUO compared to patients who received an allogeneic transplant.