bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retroalimentación docente para el desarrollo de la autonomía de los estudiantes de educación secundaria
Authors: Cusma Saldaña Marcos Antonio
Published: February 2024

La presente investigación surgió por la necesidad de saber si los docentes de educación secundaria brindaban retroalimentación a sus estudiantes tras revisar sus evaluaciones u otros productos académicos, a fin de contribuir con el desarrollo de su autonomía. El enfoque utilizado fue el cuantitativo, de tipo básico no experimental y con diseño descriptivo propositivo. Se aplicó un cuestionario a 82 estudiantes del Quinto Grado, encontrándose que el 52.4% no recibían estrategias de sus maestros para mejorar sus aprendizajes y tampoco contaban con espacios de diálogo para reflexionar e identificar sus fortalezas y debilidades que les permitiera gestionar su autoaprendizaje y por ende su autonomía. También se encontró que los padres de familia no les brindaban el apoyo correspondiente y motivación para la mejora de sus aprendizajes y que en pocas oportunidades se identificaban con sus necesidades afectivas. Se concluyó que existe la urgente necesidad de sensibilizar a docentes y familiares para poner en marcha estrategias de retroalimentación y de apoyo en cada uno de los hogares.
Randomized trial of early detection and treatment of postpartum hemorrhage
Authors: Oyoo Polycarp , Zahida Qureshi  , Alfred Osoti  , George Gwako  , Jennifer Okore  , Jim Kelly Mugambi  , I. Gallos  , A. Devall  , J. Martin  , L. Middleton  , L. Beeson  , H. Galadanci  , F. Alwy Al-beity  , G.J. Hofmeyr  , N. Moran  , S. Fawcus  , L. Sheikh
Published: February 2024

Background: Delays in the detection or treatment of postpartum hemorrhage can result in complications or death. A blood-collection drape can help provide objective, accurate, and early diagnosis of postpartum hemorrhage, and delayed or inconsistent use of effective interventions may be addressed by a treatment bundle.
Methods: We conducted an international, cluster-randomized trial to assess a multicomponent clinical intervention for postpartum hemorrhage in vaginal delivery patients. The intervention included a calibrated blood-collection drape for the early detection of postpartum hemorrhage and a bundle of first-response treatments (uterine massage, oxytocic drugs, tranexamic acid, intravenous fluids, examination, and escalation), supported by an implementation strategy (intervention group). Hospitals in the control group provided usual care. The primary outcome was a composite of severe postpartum hemorrhage (blood loss, ≥1000 ml), laparotomy for bleeding, or maternal death from bleeding. The key secondary implementation outcomes were the detection of postpartum hemorrhage and adherence to the treatment bundle.
Results: 80 secondary-level hospitals across Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Tanzania, in which 210,132 patients underwent vaginal delivery, were randomly assigned to the intervention group or the usual-care group. Among hospitals and patients with data, a primary outcome event occurred in 1.6% of the patients in the intervention group compared with 4.3% of those in the usual-care group (risk ratio, 0.40; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.32-0.50; P<0.001). Postpartum hemorrhage was detected in 93.1% of the patients in the intervention group and 51.1% of those in the usual-care group (rate ratio, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.41-1.76), and the treatment bundle was used in 91.2% and 19.4% patients, respectively (rate ratio, 4.94; 95% CI, 3.88-6.28).
Conclusion: Early detection of postpartum hemorrhage and use of bundled treatment led to a lower risk of the primary outcome, a composite of severe postpartum hemorrhage, laparotomy for bleeding, or death from bleeding, than usual care among patients having vaginal delivery. 

(Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation; E-MOTIVE ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT04341662).
Aprendizaje durante un programa de formación en simulación: una replicación conceptual
Authors: Losey Pelayo Cristina , Leppink Jimmie , Rojo Santos Elena , González Anillo Marta , Del Moral Ignacio , Maestre José María
Published: February 2024

(1) Introduction: The widespread adoption of healthcare simulation as a teaching tool has led to a growth in training programs for simulation instructors. However, there are few studies documenting the effectiveness of these programs. The objective was to study the transformation experienced by participants in an on-site edition of a specific training program and compare the possible differences observed with a previously studied and published online edition of the same program. (2) Methods. The program consisted of a 15-day online interactive module, four 8-hour face-to-face days on site, and an individual online session with one of the instructors. Each day on-site resulted in individual written reflections that were categorized according to the learning themes described by Kolbe and Rudolph (2018). (3) Results: 25 subthemes were identified that include a total of 78 elements identified in the 38 responses of the participants, categorized according to five learning themes: notes to self, evaluations, metacognitions, anticipations of applications, and emotions. (4) Conclusion: A comparable professional development progression was identified between the on-site face-to-face (the current study) and online (the previously published study) format.

(1) Introducción: La adopción generalizada de la simulación en salud como herramienta docente ha dado lugar a un crecimiento de los programas de formación para instructores de simulación. Sin embargo, son escasos los estudios documentando la eficacia de estos programas. El objetivo fue estudiar la transformación experimentada por los participantes en una edición in situ de un programa de formación específico y comparar las posibles diferencias observadas con una edición online del mismo programa, estudiada y publicada anteriormente. (2) Métodos. El programa consistió en un módulo interactivo online de 15 días, 4 días in situ de 8 horas y una sesión individual online con uno de los instructores. Cada día in situ resultó en reflexiones escritas individuales, que se categorizaron según los temas de aprendizaje descritos por Kolbe y Rudolph (2018). (3) Resultados: Se identificaron 25 subtemas que agrupan un total de 78 elementos identificados en las 38 respuestas de los participantes, categorizadas según cinco temas de aprendizaje: notas para uno mismo, evaluaciones, metacogniciones, anticipaciones de aplicaciones, y emociones. (4) Conclusión: Se identificó una progresión del desarrollo profesional comparable entre el formato presencial in situ (el estudio actual) y online (el estudio publicado anteriormente).
Perspectives on carving traditions, local knowledge and heritage conservation in Sarawak
Authors:   IRASIA (CNRS/Aix-Marseille Universite, Marseille France), J. Guerreiro Antonio
Published: February 2024

The article presents an approach of woodcarving traditions in Sarawak. It addresses different issues in the development of carvings skills and local knowledge, from the timber species used to the ritual practices and beliefs surrounding the carving of sculptures and architectonic pieces in buildings and burial structures. The research stemmed from a general approach of woodcarving (and bone carving) made by the various ethnic groups in the State known as ‘Orang Ulu’, i.e. ‘Upriver people’ and the Melanau Likou of the coastal areas, mostly based on the Sarawak Museum’s collection. It focuses on the carved ironwood belian poles (kelirieng, jerunay, kelidèng) and other large burial structures, the salong and lijèng mausoleums, erected in the coastal and interior areas of Sarawak. The use of the burial poles is related to secondary burial practices, i.e. the ‘secondary treatment of the bones’ (nulang) inserted in ceramic jars or wooden coffins within the pole, while the salong are mausoleums used mostly in primary burial; log coffins being put inside the monuments. Most burial poles and mausoleums are still found in remote upriver locations, the most recent poles having been made in the first decade of the 20th century. The agency of these monumental structures reflects social and ritual features peculiar to these peoples. In short, the burial poles and related monuments are unique creations that articulate both the tangible and intangible aspects of cultural heritage. They can be seen also as the State’s pesaka – inherited sacred goods – reflecting the socio-cosmic relationships of Sarawak’s peoples with the rainforest environment. The four burial poles presently in the Sarawak Museum collection are documented and contextualised. Finally, the article outlines community efforts related to in situ conservation, and participative museography approaches that can be useful in preserving the heritage and developing new insights about woodcarving in the State.
INTERAÇÕES PRODUTIVAS EM UNIDADES DE AGRICULTURA FAMILIAR NA COSTA OESTE PARANAENSE
Authors: Serafim Jr Valdir , De Grandi Adriana Maria , Coltre Sandra Maria , Besen Fabiola Graciele , De Araújo Tércio Vieira
Published: February 2024

Considerando a heterogeneidade da agricultura familiar, o estudo de unidades familiares com características regionais é de extrema importância, principalmente em relação as suas estratégias produtivas. O objetivo do estudo é identificar as interações produtivas de unidades produtivas localizadas na região da Costa Oeste do Paraná. A pesquisa caracterizou-se como um estudo exploratório descritivo, com abordagem quantitativa. As informações de 200 unidades familiares foram extraídas do banco de dados e relatórios do “Projeto de Agricultura Orgânica na BP3”, trabalho conduzido e desenvolvido pela Biolabore - Cooperativa de Trabalho e Assistência Técnica do Paraná, em conjunto com a Itaipu Binacional. Identificou-se unidades predominantemente compostas por pequenas áreas, com número reduzido de pessoas residentes, utilizam práticas agrícolas convencionais. As atividades produtivas não estão somente relacionadas as práticas agrícolas, ocorrendo também a agroindustrialização dentro do grupo. Apresentam especialização produtiva relacionada à bovinocultura leiteira e olericultura, suas interações produtivas variam de uma a cinco atividades, considerando-se como redes produtivas principais as atividades da bovinocultura leiteira e olericultura e como redes produtivas fortes as relacionadas com a avicultura de corte, fruticultura, milho e soja. Os canais de comercialização refletem as principais atividades produtivas, com grandes concentrações em venda direta, feiras, compras institucionais, laticínios e cooperativas.
La docencia universitaria en tiempos de Facebook: una investigación etnográfica digital sobre valoraciones estudiantiles
Authors:   Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Vázquez Delgadillo Jhovana
Published: February 2024

Este capítulo explora las posibilidades y desafíos que presenta la etnografía digital en la investigación educativa. Inicialmente, describe de manera sucinta la evolución de la etnografía, su impacto en la investigación educativa y algunas características específicas de la etnografía digital. Posteriormente, presenta un ejemplo de estudio etnográfico digital en la red sociodigital Facebook, el caso de estudio se centra en las valoraciones sobre la docencia compartidas por estudiantes de una universidad en dicha red. Se destaca el potencial de la etnografía digital en la investigación educativa, ya que permite a los investigadores acceder a información valiosa sobre las experiencias escolares y formas de pensar en la universidad. Al final del capítulo, se exponen algunos de los hallazgos más relevantes de la investigación, entre los cuales se incluyen: los elementos que más inciden en las valoraciones estudiantiles, los contrastes entre las valoraciones en medios informales y las evaluaciones institucionales, finalmente, el impacto del contexto tanto escolar como extraescolar en estas valoraciones.
Physicochemical Properties of Oil Extracted from Pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo) Seeds
Authors: Abdulrasak Mohammed Adewumi , Mohammed Abubakar , Musa Amina Ladidi , Liman Jibril Hassan , Nweke Agatha
Published: February 2024

Pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo) is a member of the family Cucurbitaceae and its fruit parts are edible. This study evaluated the physicochemical properties of extracted oil from the seed of pumpkin. The results revealed a percentage yield of 41.08 ± 2.33, refractive index of 1.47 ± 0.18, relative density of 0.09 ± 0.02 g/cm3; saponification value of 184.60 ±1.67 mg/KOH/g, Acid value of 2.64 ±1.31 mgKOH/g, iodine value of 80.27±2.09 g of I2/100 g, and peroxide value of 11.0 ±1.0 mEq/Kg. The result shows that pumpkin seed oil may find application either in food industry as food addictive as it may pose a good quality shelf life or energy generation as biofuels.
Unlocking Value: Exploring the Interplay of Intellectual Capital, Corporate Governance, Corporate Social Responsibility, and Profitability in Business Success
Authors: Nasution Mutiah , Sadalia Isfenti , Irawati Nisrul , Ilham Rico Nur
Published: February 2024

Globalization has contributed to shifts in business practices and changes in the business environment in all industrial sectors. Many existing and developing companies face great competition domestically and globally. This causes companies to have to compete by continuously maintaining their business. This study determines the effect of intellectual capital, good corporate governance, and corporate social responsibility on firm value, with profitability as an intervening variable. This research uses secondary data, the publications of the Indonesia Stock Exchange and the Malaysia Stock Exchange, reference books, journals, research results, and data retrieved from the internet related to the research topic. The data analysis method is a statistical method assisted by the Smart PLS program. The results show that VAIC (X1) had a positive and significant direction on the profitability (ROA) variable both in Indonesia and Malaysia, GCG (X2) had a positive and significant direction on the profitability (ROA) variable in Indonesia but positive direction though insignificant direction on the Profitability variable in Malaysia, CSR (X3) had a positive but insignificant effect on the profitability (ROA) variable in Indonesia and Malaysia, and VAIC (X1) had a positive but insignificant effect on Firm Value.
Ethos: Plan Estratégico de Incidencia para Migrantes en Atención a su Vulnerabilidad Extrema desde Servidores-Públicos
Authors: Ojeda García Angélica , González Ruiz Gabriela Alejandra , Castaños Cervantes Susana
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Based on an analysis of the literature and the authors experience in this field, this article describes the design and application in servers for frontline migrants, a strategic psychocoping plan. The objective was to make training on this population to look at their problems from another perspective, allowing them to recognize new tools to face their emotional experiences, through receiving care with art therapy techniques with a view to making care spaces such as shelters, houses migrants, among others, Ethos spaces. The methodology followed was One Single Session Therapy culturally adapted.
Aktualisasi Nilai-nilai Pendidikan Islam Pluralis dalam Semboyan Ragem Sai Mangi Wawai Masyarakat Tulang Bawang Barat
Authors: Hayyu Mashvufah  , Farida Ulvi Na’imah  , Lukman Surya  , Muhammad Rofiq Anwar
Published: February 2024

Having varied ethnics, cultures, religions, or faiths, Indonesia is considered a multicultural nation in today’s world. The phenomenon of violence in the name of religion, ethnicity, and culture has shown that humans have failed to understand heterogeneity, diversity, and plurality. For responding that phenomenon, the goverment West Tulang Bawang regency was implemented Islamic pluralism education's concept based on the meaning of Ragem Sai Mangi Wawai symbol of Lampung Pepadun peoples. This research with ethnographic approach and qualitative descriptive method was focused on implementation of Islamic pluralism education in West Tulang Bawang regency. The findings showed that Tulang Bawang Barat regency has applied Islamic pluralism education based on Ragem Sai Mangi Wawai with a cultural-themed concept. Its was illustrated through several society activities, such as the 47th Musabawah Tilawatil Program (MTQ) Lampung province, the colloquium Center for the Study of Religious Moderation with Islamic religious instructors of West Tulang Bawang Barat regency, ceremony of culture begawi of Lampung Pepadun, and implementing education program based nenemo's culture of philosophy
Strategi Guru Pendidikan Agama Islam dalam Membentuk Karakter Religius Peserta Didik Sekolah Dasar
Authors: Tiara Ayu Astriana  , Ikhwan Aziz Q  , Rina Mida Hayati
Published: February 2024

In Islamic religious education and ethics (often called PAI and BP) learning materials at SDN 2 Kesumadadi, there is material that discusses having faith in Allah through Asmaul Husna. In this material, the PAI teacher introduces the complete Asmaul Husna by carrying out the habituation of reading Asmaul Husna. Even though this material only discusses the 4 Asmaul Husna. The habituation of reading Asmaul Husna is a form of the effort carried out by PAI teachers to shape the religious character of the students at SDN 2 Kesumadadi, so that religious values are instilled in the souls of students. This research is qualitative research with the type of field research. Data collection techniques were carried out through observation, interviews, and documentation. The results of this study indicate that the habit of reading asmaul husna is not done every day, but only every religious lesson. The efforts of PAI teachers in forming religious character through the habit of reading asmaul husna in SDN 2 Kesumadadi are carried out in several ways, including through exemplary, habituation, mentoring, appreciation, and discipline.
Analisis Peran Guru dan Orang Tua dalam Penguatan Literasi Digital Peserta Didik di Masa Pascapandemi Covid-19
Authors: Azhari Suci Putriani , Ulfah Suci Nurmaya , Darfila Wa Ode Siti , Lessy Zulkipli
Published: February 2024

The recent Covid-19 Pandemic has further institutionalised the applications of digital technologies in education. Some schools are not ready to do a distance learning class because of the limited ability of teachers and parents to use technology. Meanwhile, after covid-19 pandemic, there were many students whose moral decreased. This study aims to describe and determine how the role of teachers and the role of parents to strengthening of digital literacy in post-pandemic era. The research approach used is descriptive qualitative in the nature of field research located at UPTD SD Negeri 13 Perupuk, Lima Puluh Pesisir, Batubara. Informants in this research were head of school, teachers, and parents. While the data collection used through interviews that had been conducted to be strengthened and corrected. The data analysis techniques are data reduction, data presentation, and verification or drawing conclusions. The findings show the role of the teachers and parents both are very important to strengthening of digital literacy their children. The findings show that the students at SDN 13 Perupuk accept the use of gadgets due to their usefulness and easiness. However, there were some negative impacts of gadget usage in terms of social life and whose moral decreased. Therefore, teachers and parents must giving guidance to students in using digital technologies in education
Pendekatan dalam Integrasi Kurikulum Pondok Pesantren dan Madrasah: Studi di Pondok Pesantren Al-Hikmah Bandar Lampung
Authors: Azmi Muhamad , Muhammad Akmansyah  , Amiruddin
Published: February 2024

Curriculum integration in islamic education refers to involves integrating the concepts and content of religius learning and general learning. This study outlines the integration of salaf Islamic boarding school education with the madrasah curriculum at Pondok Pesantren Al-Hikmah Bandar Lampung. This type of research is a type of qualitative research and data collection technique used snowball sampling for interviews, accompanied by observation and documentation. The data were analyzed using integrative and interactive techniques. This study found that the Islamic integrated curriculum in Pondok Pesantren Al-Hikmah Bandar Lampung was applied by combining the national curriculum with salaf islamic boarding school (pesantren salaf) education. The integration of madrasa and salaf Islamic boarding school curriculum is to open ourselves to the progress of the times where students are equipped with religious knowledge and general science. Implementation of curriculum integration with a social-religious approach by inserting religious moderation values in learning.
Cell-type-specific cis-regulatory divergence in gene expression and chromatin accessibility revealed by human-chimpanzee hybrid cells
Authors: Wang Ban , Starr Alexander L , Fraser Hunter B
Published: February 2024

Although gene expression divergence has long been postulated to be the primary driver of human evolution, identifying the genes and genetic variants underlying uniquely human traits has proven to be quite challenging. Theory suggests that cell-type-specific cis-regulatory variants may fuel evolutionary adaptation due to the specificity of their effects. These variants can precisely tune the expression of a single gene in a single cell-type, avoiding the potentially deleterious consequences of trans-acting changes and non-cell type-specific changes that can impact many genes and cell types, respectively. It has recently become possible to quantify human-specific cis-acting regulatory divergence by measuring allele-specific expression in human-chimpanzee hybrid cells—the product of fusing induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells of each species in vitro. However, these cis-regulatory changes have only been explored in a limited number of cell types. Here, we quantify human-chimpanzee cis-regulatory divergence in gene expression and chromatin accessibility across six cell types, enabling the identification of highly cell-type-specific cis-regulatory changes. We find that cell-type-specific genes and regulatory elements evolve faster than those shared across cell types, suggesting an important role for genes with cell-type-specific expression in human evolution. Furthermore, we identify several instances of lineage-specific natural selection that may have played key roles in specific cell types, such as coordinated changes in the cis-regulation of dozens of genes involved in neuronal firing in motor neurons. Finally, using novel metrics and a machine learning model, we identify genetic variants that likely alter chromatin accessibility and transcription factor binding, leading to neuron-specific changes in the expression of the neurodevelopmentally important genes FABP7 and GAD1. Overall, our results demonstrate that integrative analysis of cis-regulatory divergence in chromatin accessibility and gene expression across cell types is a promising approach to identify the specific genes and genetic variants that make us human.
Impact of Community of Practice and Lesson Study on Fostering the Student Thinking Competency
Authors: Cojorn Kanyarat , Sonsupap Kanyarat
Published: February 2024

Ample studies have confirmed that the concepts of Community of Practice and Lesson Study can effectively develop professional development, especially in the design of learning. This positive impact on learners is also evident. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the results that occurred with students who learned from teachers who used activities based on the concepts of Community of Practice and Lesson Study, focusing on studying cognitive competencies, including creative thinking, problem-solving, and analytical thinking. The study involved 60 elementary school students from 5 different science classrooms, taught by 5 collaborating teachers. In this research, two communities of practice were established: (i) Community of Practice A (CoP A), consisting of teachers with varying teaching experiences and teaching fifth-grade students, and (ii) Community of Practice B (CoP B), consisting of teachers with similar teaching experiences and teaching sixth-grade students. Data for this study was collected quantitatively through measures of analytical thinking, problem-solving, and creative thinking. The research results revealed that the students’ thinking competencies improved significantly. In CoP A, the students demonstrate a positive trajectory in developing competencies across all thinking competency, particularly excelling in analytical thinking. In problem-solving and creative thinking, the majority exhibit proficiency ranging from high to moderate levels. Meanwhile, in CoP B, most of the students show positive progress in thinking competencies, with high and moderate proficiency in problem-solving and creative thinking. However, there’s a noticeable trend of moderate to low emphasis on analytical thinking.
Challenges of Teaching English Listening Skills at the Primary Level in Bangladesh
Authors: Datta Srejon , Roy Sukanto
Published: February 2024

This research attempts to explore the challenges of teaching English listening skills at primary-level schools in Bangladesh. A mixed method was applied to conduct the research. The quantitative data was collected by a survey questionnaire from 30 primary-level English teachers. The qualitative data was collected by interviewing 5 primary level teachers. From the collected data, it is explored that the teachers confront several challenges in teaching listening skills, i.e., independent of teaching listening skills, teachers are bound to follow merely the vast syllabus of the institution, and they do not have any liberty to bring something beyond the stipulated instructions given by the authority. Few teachers have access to required teaching instruments like a computer, the internet, speakers, recorders, and a projector, and due to not having such instruments, the teachers cannot expose their students to cartoons, rhymes, stories, poems, and fables. A common view among the interviewees was that listening to--- and watching-- such types of audio-visual representations is effective in terms of honing students’ listening and literacy. Also, teachers’ classroom environment is not suitable for the teaching of listening skills. Many teachers are not yet trained to enact the proper pedagogy of listening. However, the time period of the primary level is so pivotal that if learners are not exposed to listening skills at that time, they then remain passive and weak in listening, communication, and literacy. Additionally, this study also provides recommendations for the establishment of and enhancing the teaching of listening skills at the primary level in Bangladesh.
Flat Tax: European Experiences and the Italian Proposals
Authors:   Università di Modena e Reggio Emilia, Baldini Massimo , Leonzio Rizzo Leonzio Rizzo ,   Università di Ferrara and IEB
Published: February 2024

The paper discusses the flat tax, intended as a potential comprehensive reform of personal income tax. After a presentation of the broad characteristics of the flat tax model, we extensively describe the ap¬plications of this model that have taken place so far in some countries and its impact on financial and economic indicators. The last part of the paper focuses on the Italian case, assessing the possible dis¬tributional effects of the application on Italian households’ incomes of some recently presented flat tax reform proposals.
Mental Health Interventions among People Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria: A Scoping Review
Authors: Asogun D. , Obodeh C. , Okhihan I. , Aziba T. , Edogun J. , Oisakede E. O. , Akhaine J.
Published: February 2024

Background: People who are living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) often face numerous mental health challenges, such as depression and anxiety disorders. The objective of this scoping review was to systematically analyse and synthesise the existing literature on mental health interventions available for PLWHA in Nigeria.

Methods: To conduct this review, a comprehensive search of reputable sources including PUBMED, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Hinari, and African Journal Online (AJOL) was performed. Adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) reporting guidelines, a total of 6 studies were identified, spanning from 2007 and 2021, that focused on interventions addressing adverse mental health conditions among PLWHA.

Results: The studies were conducted in three different regions across Nigeria, with the highest number of studies conducted in the South-West region (3), followed by the South East region (2), and the North Central region (1). Among the mental health conditions addressed in these studies, depression was the most prevalent (4 out of 6 studies, or 66.7%), followed by depression co-occurring with other mental health conditions (3 out of 6 studies, or 50%). The most commonly utilised interventions in the reviewed studies were cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and aerobic exercise delivery, each accounting for 33.3% of the interventions. All of the studies reported positive outcomes in terms of participants' mental health. The majority of the studies (83.3%) involved professional counsellors administering the mental health interventions, followed by physiotherapists (33.3%) and psychotherapists (33.3%).

Conclusions: The findings of this review indicate that there is a significantly limited number of implemented interventions addressing the various forms of mental distress experienced by PLWHA, particularly in high prevalence areas of Nigeria. This highlights a crucial research gap and emphasises the need for more interventions that specifically address the mental health needs of PLWHA in Nigeria, taking into consideration the unique challenges and opportunities present in the country.
A Review on Organic Farming in India
Authors: Cha Vikas Moirangthem , Elish Thokchom , Sina N , Mishra Saket , Kushwaha Akhilesh , Ekka Shashi Kant , Kujur Reena
Published: February 2024

Organic horticulture is a dynamic and sustainable approach to cultivating plants that prioritizes environmental health, biodiversity, and human well-being. This combination of high-yielding production technology has helped the country develop a food surplus as well as contributing to concerns of soil health, environmental pollution, pesticide toxicity, and sustainability of agricultural production. Alternatives for managing pests and diseases in organic farming mostly focus on preventive methods as opposed to curative therapies, which are founded on ecologically safer management techniques.  The priority has been placed on maintaining the ecosystem’s health, allowing plants to become resistant to insect pests and illnesses.
Comparison of the Patient Demographics, High-Resolution Computed Tomography Features of the Pulmonary Ground-Glass Opacity and Its Diagnostic Value Analysis
Authors: Fan Sheng , Zhu Xiaolei , Lin Hui , Chen Junhai , Li Lintao , Shi Sien
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Pulmonary ground-glass opacity (GGO) observed on computed tomography (CT) is widely regarded as a diagnostic feature of lung adenocarcinoma; however, a significant radiological predictive sign remains controversial. In this retrospective study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of 206 patients with GGO to establish a correlation analysis model between CT images and diagnosis of GGO nodules.

Methods

Histopathologic specimens were obtained from 206 patients (130 women, 76 men; age range 24–77). The clinical data, pathologic findings, and thin-section CT features of solid, pure GGO (pGGO), and mixed GGO (mGGO) nodules were compared using rigorous statistical methods, such as t-test, Fisher’s exact test, or univariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

Significant differences were observed among the 3 groups in terms of patient demographics, including gender (P = 0.016), smoking history (P = 0.002), and nodule size (P = 0.002). Morphologic CT characteristics, such as the presence of spiculated sign, lobulated sign, vascular sign, bubble-lucency sign, or pleural retraction, exhibited significant differences among the solid nodule, pGGO, and mGGO groups. However, no significant differences were observed in terms of air-bronchogram sign. Notably, the incidence of malignancy was significantly higher in pGGO nodules (76.52%) than in solid (48.48%) and mGGO (73.86%) nodules. Patients with mGGO had up to 2.988 times higher hazard of malignant lesions than those with solid nodules [P = 0.036, hazard ratio (HR) = 2.988]. Similarly, the hazard of malignant lesions was 2.941 times higher in patients with pGGO than in those with solid nodules (P = 0.007, HR = 2.941).

Conclusion

Clinical, pathological, and thin-section CT features of solid, pGGO and mGGO nodules were found to be significantly different. Based on our comprehensive analysis, patients presenting with a mGGO or pGGO on CT scans were more likely to be diagnosed with lung cancer.
Working with Students in the Medication ERA: Do We All have to Know how to Diagnose and Treat Mental Conditions?
Authors: Alishio Kip , Hersh Joshua
Published: March 2005

A marked increase in the number of college students on medications for depression, attention deficit disorder, and other conditions may have intimidated us into believing that we all need to be medical experts. The author argues that what educators need to do is accept our limitations and recognize that our traditional strengths may be just what the doctor ordered.
This is Why we Teach: Igniting a Passion for Learning in Linked Courses
Authors: Kutnowski Martin
Published: March 2005

Rote teaching and learning have their place, but not in a music course and an art and design course in which two dozen students at Queensborough Community College enrolled together. Through a shared theme, shared assignments, and a shared commitment to making the content relevant and the process active and engaging, two instructors fashioned a powerful environment for learning.
Maintaining knowledge management systems: A strategic imperative
Authors: Desouza Kevin C. , Awazu Yukika
Published: March 2005

Most organizations have reported dismal returns on their investments in knowledge portals—Intranet Web sites aimed at enabling the storage and exchange of explicit knowledge artifacts. In our research, we were surprised to find that knowledge workers have for the most part abandoned the use of knowledge portals. Moreover, in cases where they do turn to knowledge portals they use it as a last resort. In this brief communication, we call attention both to research and practice to help transform current knowledge portals to ones that are more sensitive to the issues faced by practitioners. To this end, we will elaborate on the need to pay attention to maintenance of knowledge management portals.
GC‐MS analysis of penta‐ and tetra‐cyclic triterpenes from resins of Pistacia species. Part II. Pistacia terebinthus var. Chia
Authors: Assimopoulou A. N. , Papageorgiou V. P.
Published: March 2005

Pistacia species contain oleoresins with bioactive triterpenes. In this study triterpenes, including minor components, were identified and quantified in both neutral and acidic fractions of Pistacia terebinthus var. Chia resin, grown exclusively in Chios island (Greece), collected traditionally, as well as using stimulating agents (liquid collection). It was proved that these two resin samples were composed of several different minor triterpenes, while major constituents were similar but in different proportions. Compounds that differentiated two resin samples of P. lentiscus and P. terebinthus var. Chia, both traditionally collected, were detected, in order to identify the nature of resins present in archaeological materials. In the traditionally collected resin, 37 triterpenes were identified, 12 in the acidic and 25 in the neutral fraction. In the liquid collection resin 10 compounds were identified in the acidic and 23 in the neutral fraction, while 16 compounds were not contained in the traditionally collected resin. The main triterpenes in both resin samples collected traditionally and using stimulating agents were: isomasticadienonic acid (23.6 and 26.3% w[sol ]w of the triterpenic fraction, respectively), 28‐norolean‐17‐en‐3‐one (16.3 and 17.5% w[sol ]w of the triterpenic fraction, respectively) and masticadienonic acid (5.8 and 6.0% w[sol ]w of the triterpenic fraction). In this study the qualitative and quantitative composition of triterpenes was compared in the Pistacia lentiscus and P. terebinthus var. Chia resin samples collected with the traditional and new liquid techniques, and also triterpenes in resins of P. terebinthus obtained by the traditional technique and using stimulating agents. The aim of the study was also to examine whether the collection technique influenced the triterpenes contained in P. terebinthus var. Chia resin samples. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tongue and tonsil carcinoma
Authors: Shiboski Caroline H. , Schmidt Brian L. , Jordan Richard C. K.
Published: March 2005

BACKGROUND

An increasing incidence of oral carcinoma among young adults has been reported in the U.S. and Europe. Although the association between human papillomavirus infection and tonsillar carcinoma is now well established, to the authors' knowledge little is known about incidence trends in tonsillar carcinoma among younger adults. The objective of the current study was to explore the trends in both oral cavity and pharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in younger U.S. populations, in particular tongue and tonsillar SCC.

METHODS

Using the 1973–2001 Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database, we computed age, race, and site‐specific trends of oral and pharyngeal (excluding nasopharynx) carcinoma incidence rates. The percent change (PC) and annual percent change (APC) were computed to explore trends in incidence rates over time.

RESULTS

There were 2262 SCC of the oral cavity and 1251 SCC of the pharynx reported to the SEER program from 1973 to 2001 in adults aged 20–44 years. There was a statistically significant increase in the incidence of oral tongue SCC (APC = +2.1; P < 0.001), base of tongue SCC (APC = +1.7; P = 0.04), and palatine tonsil SCC (APC = +3.9; P < 0.001) among younger white individuals, whereas the incidence of SCC in all other oral and pharyngeal sites decreased or remained constant.

CONCLUSIONS

The increase in tonsil SCC incidence from 1973 to 2001 paralleled the increase in tongue SCC, whereas SCC in all other oral and pharyngeal sites remained constant or decreased. This may suggest similar etiologic factors for SCC affecting the palatine tonsils and tongue in younger populations. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
Development of human visual cortex: A balance between excitatory and inhibitory plasticity mechanisms
Authors: Murphy Kathryn M. , Beston Brett R. , Boley Philip M. , Jones David G.
Published: March 2005

Formation of neural circuitry in the developing visual cortex is shaped by experience during the critical period. A number of mechanisms, including N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptor activation and γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)‐mediated inhibition, are crucial in determining onset and closure of the critical period for visual plasticity. Animal models have shown that a threshold level of tonic inhibition must be reached for critical period plasticity to occur and that NMDA receptors contribute to Hebbian synaptic plasticity in the developing visual cortex. There are a number of developmental changes in these glutamatergic and GABAergic mechanisms that have been linked to plasticity; however, those changes have been shown only in animal models, and their development in the human visual cortex is not known. We have addressed this question by studying the expression of the major glutamatergic receptors, GABAA receptors, and glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) isoforms during the first 6 years of postnatal development of human visual cortex. There are significant changes in the expression of these proteins during postnatal development of human visual cortex. The time course of the changes is quite prolonged and suggests that it may set the pace for the prolonged critical period in human visual development. The changes also affect the nature of spatial and temporal integration in visual cortical neurons and thereby contribute to the maturation of visual functions. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 46: 209–221, 2005.
An Amperometric Enzyme Biosensor Fabricated from Polyaniline Nanoparticles
Authors: Morrin Aoife , Ngamna Orawan , Killard Anthony J. , Moulton Simon E. , Smyth Malcolm R. , Wallace Gordon G.
Published: March 2005

The biosensor described here uses a novel aqueous‐based nanoparticulate polyaniline (PANI), doped with dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid (DBSA). The nanoparticles were applied to a glassy carbon electrode surface by electrodeposition techniques, and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was subsequently electrostatically adsorbed to the nanoparticle‐modified surface. This biosensor format was demonstrated for H2O2 sensing. Electrodeposited polymer nanoparticles resulted in highly ordered conductive nanostructured films, which were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), profilometry and spectroelectrochemistry. The surface of the films were characterized by a uniform array of nanoparticulate PANI (nanoPANI/DBSA) nodules and were shown to have a thickness of 350 nm. Physical techniques have shown that the nanofilms possess properties which allow for uniform electrostatic adsorption of protein to take place. This effective biosensor format, exhibits higher signal‐to‐background ratios and shorter response times than previous PANI biosensor configurations.
Image reconstruction with a shift‐variant filtration in circular cone‐beam CT
Authors: Yu Lifeng , Pan Xiaochuan , Pelizzari Charles A.
Published: March 2005

It is well known that cone‐beam data acquired with a circular orbit are insufficient for exact image reconstruction. Despite this, because a cone‐beam scanning configuration with a circular orbit is easy to implement in practice, it has been widely employed for data acquisition in, e.g., micro‐CT and CT imaging in radiation therapy. The algorithm developed by Feldkamp, Davis, and Kress (FDK) and its modifications, such as the Tent–FDK (T‐FDK) algorithm, have been used for image reconstruction from circular cone‐beam data. In this work, we present an algorithm with spatially shift‐variant filtration for image reconstruction in circular cone‐beam CT. We performed computer‐simulation studies to compare the proposed and existing algorithms. Numerical results in these studies demonstrated that the proposed algorithm has resolution properties comparable to, and noise properties better than, the FDK algorithm. As compared to the T‐FDK algorithm, our proposed algorithm reconstructs images with an improved in‐plane spatial resolution. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Imaging Syst Technol, 14, 213–221, 2004; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ima.20026
Temperature‐dependent feature sensitivity analysis for combustion modeling
Authors: Zhao Zhenwei , Li Juan , Kazakov Andrei , Dryer Frederick L.
Published: March 2005

Sensitivity analysis is one of the most widely used tools in kinetic modeling. Typically, it is performed by perturbing the A‐factors of the individual reaction rate coefficients and monitoring the effect of these perturbations on the observables of interest. However, the sensitivity coefficients obtained in this manner do not contain direct information on possible temperature‐dependent effects. Yet, in many combustion processes, especially in premixed flames, the system undergoes substantial temperature changes, and the relative importance of individual reaction rates may vary significantly within the flame. An extension of conventional sensitivity analysis developed in the present work provides the means of identifying the temperatures at which individual reaction rate coefficients are most important as a function of input parameters and specific experimental conditions. The obtained information is demonstrated to be of critical relevance in optimizing complex reaction schemes against multiple experimental targets. Applications of the presented approach are not limited to sensitivities with respect to reaction rate coefficients; the method can be used for any temperature‐dependent property of interest (such as binary diffusion coefficients). This application is also demonstrated in this paper. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 37: 282–295, 2005
The public and private persona of philanthropy: The donor challenge
Authors: Karoff H. Peter
Published: March 2005

Donors face complex challenges in bridging the gap between their private selves and the public interest, and they may never be able to do so unless they are motivated, educated, nudged, and supported in the process.
Microscopic features of methacrylate polymers with zwitterionic pendant groups determined by various techniques
Authors: Cardoso J. , Montiel Raúl , Huanosta‐Tera Alfonso
Published: March 2005

The objective of this work was to determine microscopic structural features of three methacrylate polymers with different numbers of diethylene glycol residues and zwitterionic pendant groups. X‐ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and scanning probe microscopy techniques were employed. X‐ray data led to the adoption of a model made up of molecular aggregates forming lamellar domains, establishing in this way ordered characteristics of these kinds of polymers. Scanning electron microscopy images provided evidence of the occurrence of a lamellar structure forming the morphology of the polymers. This was corroborated by atomic force microscopy experiments. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the lamellar aggregates conformed into clusters immersed in a polymeric matrix. From phase‐contrast images, information on the homogeneity of the composition at a molecular surface level was obtained. Then, the techniques provided evidence of the lamellar domain characteristics of the studied sulfobetaines. The crystallinity was a function of the number of ethoxy groups because as this number increased, the crystallinity became lower © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 43: 1152–1160, 2005
Non‐destructive, room temperature characterization of wafer‐sized III–V semiconductor device structures using contactless electromodulation and wavelength‐modulated surface photovoltage spectroscopy
Authors: Huang Y. S. , Pollak F. H.
Published: March 2005

We review the use of the contactless methods of photoreflectance (PR), contactless electroreflectance (CER) and wavelength modulated differential surface photovoltage spectroscopy (DSPS) for the nondestructive, room temperature characterization of a wide variety of wafer‐scale III–V semiconductor device structures. Some systems that will be discussed include heterojunction bipolar transistors (including the determination of the built‐in fields/doping levels in the emitter and collector regions, alloy composition, and dc current gain factor), pseudomorphic GaAlAs/InGaAs/GaAs high electron mobility transistors (including the determination of the composition, width, and two‐dimensional electron gas density in the channel), InGaAsP/InP quantum well edge emitting lasers (including the detection of p‐dopant interdiffusion), vertical‐cavity surface‐emitting lasers (determination of fundamental conduction to heavy‐hole excitonic transition and cavity mode). (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)