bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Digital Game-Based Language Learning: The Impact of Story-Driven Game Life Is Strange 1 on Language Learners’ Listening Skills
Authors: P Moniza Ray S. , I Ajit.
Published: March 2024

The study aimed to examine the impact of employing a digital game, Life is Strange 1: Episode 1, on the listening skills of English as a Second Language (ESL) learners. To conduct the study, the researchers employed a one-group pretest-posttest mixed-methods research design. A sample of 24 intermediate undergraduate engineering students from a private university in Chennai, India, participated in this study. During the experiment, the participants who enrolled in the course Interpersonal Listening Skills played the game Life is Strange 1: Episode 1 in the university’s language lab for four weeks. To collect quantitative data, all the participants took pre- and post-listening comprehension tests (LCT), and through close-ended questionnaires on students' perceptions using SPSS software, quantitative analysis of the data was made using frequency and percentage. And through the participants’ face-to-face interviews, qualitative data were collected and analyzed to gain deeper insights into the participants' experiences and perceptions. The post-test results revealed that participants' listening skills had improved in comparison to the pre-test results. Additionally, qualitative data showed that participants enjoyed playing the game and found it motivating, engaging, and an effective method to improve their listening skills. These findings were in line with those of several other studies. Thus, the study revealed that ESL learners' listening skills could be improved by playing the video game, which may have significant implications for ESL educators and researchers who can integrate DGBLL to improve language learning outcomes into their teaching and research.
A Study of the Translatability and Untranslatability of Qur’ānic Arabic Particle laʿalla لَعَلَّ in Some Selected Surahs: A Linguistic Perspective
Authors: Abdelkarim Majda Babiker Ahmed , Alhaj Ali Albashir Mohammed
Published: March 2024

Theoretically and in practice, the issue of translatability and untranslatability has been a controversial matter in translation studies and translation theories. This study, carried out from a linguistic perspective, examined the translatability and untranslatability of the Qur’ānic Arabic particle laʿalla لَعَلَّ in several surahs, specifically in terms of three renowned translations of the Holy Qur’ān which were sourced from The Qur’ānic Arabic Corpus, namely those of Abdelhaleem (2004), Al-Hilali and Khan (1996) and Pickthall (1930). A descriptive analytical method was utilized together with Jones' (2016) concept which asserts that the random treatment of laʿalla لَعَلّ needs to be addressed. Findings of the study revealed that, the three translators have comparatively succeeded in rendering the Qur’ānic Arabic laʿalla لَعَلَّ into English. Most of the time, it is rendered as 'so that', 'so', 'that' and the model auxiliary 'may’ that suggests the adverb 'perhaps'. The study concluded that, regarding the adequacy of the rendering, communication, and comprehension of the Holy Qurʾān these conjunctions and the model auxiliary are appropriate as they convey the intended notion of 'likelihood’ or ‘probability'.
Indonesia Toll Roads: Its Effect on The Trade Routes in ASEAN
Authors: Juliadi Aldi Adista , Oktirellia Alya Sophia , Fadhilah Galuh Chisyti Nur , Shaffiyah Indira , Dwiyanti Vina
Published: March 2024

The sea toll road is one of a solution that gives a good effect in the trade routes in the future. Indonesia toll road is a program of the Indonesian government that aims to improve connectivity between regions inequitable distribution of goods so that the movement of the economy can be efficient and evenly distributed. In addition to the impact on the Indonesian state, this program has an impact on countries that are close to Indonesia (ASEAN). The purpose of this study is to analyze how the systematics of Indonesia's toll road program and its effects on the trade routes neighboring countries of Indonesia. The method that we used in this study is review analysis. The result of this study is sea toll facilitates commercial access from southern Pacific countries to Eastern Asian countries. The idea of the Sea Toll concept will open up regional access by making two large international hub ports that can serve large commercial ships above 3,000 TEUs or a Panamax vessel class of 6000 TEUs. This study has an impact on the international shipping process through ASEAN trade routes.
Monitoring of air quality with satellite-based sensor: The case of four towns in Southeast, Nigeria
Authors: Abulude Francis Olawale , Acha Sunday , Arifalo Kikelomo Mabinuola , Akinnusotu Akinyinka , Oluwagbayide Samuel Dare , Shoumik Baig Abdullah Al , Gbotoso Arinola Oluwatoyin
Published: March 2024

Air pollution is an important issue globally because it is linked to health risks or death as the case may be. No nation has placed a carefree attitude on the menace. Constant monitoring to reduce or bring it to an end is on the increase. Internet of Things (IoT) is one of the tools used in monitoring air quality. The main functionality of IoT includes sensing out the surrounding environment collecting the data from the surrounding and transmitting those data to the remote data centers or the cloud. In this study, Satellite model information provided by Plume Labs, Paris, France was used for the determination of the air quality in four towns (Owerri, Awka, Aba, and Nsukka) in the Southeastern part of Nigeria. The data were obtained from the Plume Labs website between the hours of 6-9 am and 7-9 pm every day for a period of sixty (60 days). The air qualities of the towns were obtained by comparing the satellite results with Plume Air Quality Index Indicator (PAQI). PAQI has seven levels (Low, Moderate, High, Very High, Excessive, Extreme, and Airpocalypse) of pollution which are linked to the World Health Organization (WHO) limits. The results depicted that the air quality of the cities has reached elevated levels of pollution above the 24-hour daily limit set by the WHO, which is an indication that everyone may start to experience serious health effects. A long-term exposure constitutes a real health risk.
Assessment and Optimization of Coagulation Process in Water Treatment Plant: A Review
Authors: Sheng Danny Pui Wei , Bilad Muhammad Roil , Shamsuddin Norazanita
Published: March 2024

The rapid growth of the human population, industrialization, and urbanization has threatened the global demand for safe drinking water. Water treatment plant plays a vital role in purifying the raw water for consumer use. The typical water treatment process are coagulation-flocculation, sedimentation, and filtration. Among them, the coagulation-flocculation process is the primary stage in the treatment process. This paper reviews and discusses the optimization strategies of a coagulation-flocculation process to enhance overall treatment efficiency. The working principle of the coagulation-flocculation process is first discussed to understand the treatment process better. Next, the importance of aluminum-based coagulants is addressed as chemical coagulants are one of the key factors that can improve the process. The removals of natural organic matter (NOM) by the coagulation-flocculation process were reviewed as NOM normally contributes to the discoloration of water. The optimization of coagulant dosage was also discussed to depict the consequence of uncontrolled dosage. Finally, dosing control strategies in real-time were discussed, namely direct and indirect dosing control.
The Effect of Composition Variation of Pineapple, Squeezed Orange (Citrus sinensis), and Tomato on The Electrical Properties of Voltaic Cells as an Electrolyte Solution
Authors: Trianadewi Dina , Abadi Hilda Yanuar , Ainisyifa Zia Nazaliah , Siswanto Adam , Anggraeni Sri , Nandiyanto Asep Bayu Dani
Published: March 2024

This study aims to demonstrate the electrolyte solution from the fruits to be used as electrical source energy. We combined and varied the composition of the pineapple, squeezed orange, and tomato. The novelties of this research are (1) investigation of the composition of three electrolyte solutions, such as pineapple, squeezed orange, and tomato; (2) the use of these electrolytes. Experiments were done by designing the experimental apparatus and mixing fruits with different compositions. The fruits were mashed using a saw-milling apparatus. We made a series of electrical circuits to test the electrolyte solution. Data were collected every hour for 5 h. We tested the voltage, current strength, and pH. In the circuit, we used a small LED light (2 volts) for ensuring the electrical ability. The results of this study showed the presence of a voltage and current generated, turning on the LED. The more volume of the squeezed orange increased the citric acid, resulting the electrolyte solution to be more acidic (less pH). The utilization of fruits such as pineapple, squeezed orange, and tomato is effective as an electrolyte solution.
Frequent Items Mining on Data Streams using Matrix and Scan Reduced Indexing Algorithms
Authors: Vijayarani S. , Sivamathi C. , Prassanalakshmi R.
Published: March 2024

A data stream is used for handling dynamic databases, in which data can arrive continuously without limit. Association rule mining is a data mining technique, used to find the association between the data items in the databases. To generate association rules, frequent items are to be identified from the transactional database. Normally, in data mining, frequent-item-generation algorithms scan the database multiple times. But this is impossible in data streams because it handles dynamic databases. Hence, there is a need to develop a new algorithm, which reduces the number of database scans. In this work, two new algorithms named Scan-Reduced Indexing and Matrix algorithm are proposed for generating frequent itemsets in data streams. Performances of both algorithms are compared based on the execution time and the number of frequent items generated. Experimental results show that the performance of the Scan-Reduced Indexing algorithm is more efficient than that of the Matrix algorithm.
Energy-Efficient Synthetic Method, X-Ray Diffraction Analysis and Thermal Decomposition of Cobalt (II) and Nickel (II) Schiff Base Complexes Derived from 2-Aminobenzothiazole
Authors: Sani Salihu , Siraj Ibrahim Tajo , Kurawa Mukhtar Atiku , Koki Isa Baba
Published: March 2024

A Schiff base was synthesized from the condensation reaction of 2-hydroxybenzaldehyde and 2-aminobenzothiazole via energy-efficient liquid-assisted mechanochemical synthesis (LAG). The Co (II) and Ni (II) complexes were also synthesized and characterized using IR, Solubility, TGA, PXRD, UV-Visible analysis, magnetic susceptibility measurement, conductivity measurement, and CHNS/O micro-analysis. In the IR analysis, the Schiff base spectrum revealed a prominent band at 1603 cm-1 (assigned to the azomethine v(C=N) stretching vibration), and the azomethine band shifted to 1621 and 1599 cm-1 in the Co (II) and Ni (II) complexes, respectively (indicating the formation of the expected complexes). In the TGA thermogram, Ni (II) and Cu (II) Schiff base complexes had decomposition temperatures of 184 and 181°C, respectively. The PXRD analysis revealed that the patterns of the ground mixture were different from the starting constituents, implying that the raw components were converted into the final product. The theoretical and experimental analytical data of C, H, and N for the Schiff base and complexes are in good agreement. The Schiff base ligand and its complexes were evaluated as agents for inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria using the agar well diffusion method. According to antimicrobial activity studies, complexes exhibit stronger antibacterial activity than the Schiff base.
Study of Flood Variation of Wainganga River Basin and Dhuti Dam with Impact on Crops at Balaghat Station (India)
Authors: Patle S. K. , Parasar C. , Chavan R.
Published: March 2024

The usefulness of the Dhuti dam and its importance for crop irrigation at the Balaghat station, located on the Waingang River in Madhya Pradesh, India, has been the focus of research on rainfall fluctuations in the Wainganga sub-basin. Wainganga is the largest peninsular river in India. Wainganga River flows for 635.40 kilometers. Until its confluence with the Wardha River, the Wainganga River has a catchment area of 51,000 km2. The basin spans the five districts of Maharashtra and three districts of Madhya Pradesh. The Wainganga Basin is also mentioned in "The Jungle Book" by the famous writer Rudyard Kipling. The Wainganga Basin is known for the production of rice and, more specifically, Chinour. Balaghat "Chinour" rice obtained G-Tag certificate in 2021, and is now internationally renowned and exported. Rice crops are irrigated mainly by water from the Dhuti dam throughout the year. The dam is very important for the development of rice crops in the region. Sir Jorge, a British engineer, built the dam between 1911 and 1921. It is one of the oldest earthen dams in India, sealed with lime mortar. Floods have affected the cultivated area and water demand in the Balaghat district area for the past few years. The intensity and duration of rainfall varies from year to year along with changes in climatic conditions. The effect of flooding in a given season, as well as basin factors such as variations in rainfall, coefficient of variance, and agricultural damage were examined.
Jakarta COVID-19 Forecast with Bayesian PIRD Multiwave Model
Authors: Chandra Christian Evan , Abdullah Sarini
Published: March 2024

Governments have to consider both socioeconomic and health conditions in handling the COVID-19 pandemic. To help them in understanding possible scenarios behind the numbers and deciding optimum policy, this study proposed a Bayesian protected-infected-recovered-dead (PIRD) multi-wave model. Compounds of the Richards curve are used to understand how many pandemic waves possibly occur, how significant is the occurrence of every single wave, and dynamic in every single wave. The model also estimated the mortality rate due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the duration between infection to death, also infection to recovery. We fitted Jakarta’s COVID-19 data from 3 March 2020 to 25 November 2021 with help of OpenBUGS. We learned that their pandemic should consist of at least two waves, expected to have three waves already. By letting social restriction be looser together with decreasing number of new infection cases, Jakarta could have its fourth and even fifth pandemic wave that starts around mid-May to mid-July 2022 and reach its peak around January to February 2023. Vice versa, they could enter the endemic phase around the end of August 2022 until the beginning of February 2023 and finally have zero COVID-19 new infection around mid-January until mid-June 2023 by having stricter social restrictions.
Effect of Proper Treatment on Mineral Oils
Authors: Felix Stephanie Azlyn Anak , Din Muhamad Faiz MD
Published: March 2024

For over a century, a transformer act as a crucial part of the high voltage system. This also acts as an energy alteration device that is used to step-up and step-down voltage for power distribution from power generation to the consumers.  Maintaining a transformer is important since a single mistake can lead to a vast amount of problems in a high voltage system in terms of cost. Thus, nowadays, many researchers study the important parts of a transformer, making it to function more effective. One of the studies involves improving treatment in the insulation medium of transformers to improve its function and performance. Here, the focus of this experiment was to study the effect of proper treatment on mineral oil in terms of electrical properties as an insulator in the transformer. The drying process was the main concern in this experiment. Parameters such as AC breakdown voltage, Tan Delta value, Raman measurement, resistivity, and relative permittivity were particularly measured. Origin software was used to analyze the data obtained from the experiment. The results expected from the experiment is that the proper preparation plays the role in tuning the AC breakdown voltage.
Research Trends from The Scopus Database Using Keyword Water Hyacinth and Ecosystem: A Bibliometric Literature Review
Authors: Nandiyanto Asep Bayu Dani , Fiandini Meli , Al Husaeni Dwi Novia
Published: March 2024

The problem of water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) invading aquatic biota ecosystems is a hot issue that is currently being discussed throughout the world. Due to the many solutions proposed in academia for their management, mitigation, and utilization, it is necessary to investigate through systematic research. Based on this, this study aims to present research developments on the topic of water hyacinths and ecosystems using bibliometric analysis. In this research, a total of 227 articles from 2000 to 2023 years regarding the keywords “water hyacinth” AND “ecosystem” were taken from Scopus which was used for further analysis. To accomplish the bibliometric analysis, the software programs VOSviewer was used. Based on the findings, it shows that the number of article publications over the last 23 years (2000-2023) has experienced fluctuating changes which are divided into three periods. The pioneering and growth periods were identified in 2000-2008 and 2009-2015. Meanwhile, the acceleration period will occur in 2016-2023. According to the results of data visualization, it was found that there were 4 clusters. The keyword "water hyacinth" is used more frequently, especially in 2016. The most productive affiliate publishing article is the University of California. Meanwhile, the most productive country is India. In addition, most productive authors come from India, namely Kanna, S. and Dube, T.
Technology-supported Project-based Learning: Trends, Review and Future Research in Science, Technology and Engineering Education
Authors: Wahyudi W. , Setiawan Agus , Suhandi Andi , Samsudin Achmad
Published: March 2024

This research investigates trends in technology-supported project-based learning (PjBL) in science, technology, and engineering education and also provides future research directions in this field. Bibliometric analysis with Scopus database sources in the period 2004-2023 was used in this investigation. 541 publications met the criteria, with the annual growth of publications increasing based on the number of documents and citations. American and Asian countries are the most productive countries and affiliates in publications in this field. Most publications are produced from international conferences. The publication's conceptual structure shows four research clusters with 81 terms, 1029 links, and a total link strength of 3492. The term "project-based learning" is the central node in the cluster, connecting several essential terms related to the use of technology in PjBL. The discussion at the end of this study leads to recommended further research paths for developing technology-supported PjBL.
How to Purify and Experiment with Dye Adsorption using Carbon: Step-by-Step Procedure from Carbon Conversion from Agricultural Biomass to Concentration Measurement Using UV Vis Spectroscopy
Authors: Nandiyanto Asep Bayu Dani , Fiandini Meli , Ragadhita Risti , Aziz Muhammad
Published: March 2024

This paper contains guidelines and provides a basic understanding of how to do experiments in dye adsorption using carbon. This paper presents a step-by-step experimental procedure from carbon preparation (as biochar) from agricultural waste to concentration measurement using UV-Vis Spectroscopy. We used agricultural waste as a model due to its high cellulose and organic content, making it easily converted into carbon. This paper can be used as a guide for researchers and students in the fabrication of carbon from agricultural waste biomass easily and inexpensively for its application as an adsorbent in the batch adsorption process. This paper also supports the current issues in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Multi-Distributed Activation Energy Model for Pyrolysis of Sugarcane Bagasse: Modelling Strategy and Thermodynamic Characterization
Authors: Jamilatun Siti , Aziz Muhammad , Pitoyo Joko
Published: March 2024

The multi-distributed activation energy model (multi-DAEM) is the most effective approach for outlining the kinetics model of biomass pyrolysis. The purpose of this study is to identify the optimal number and shape of the DAEM for sugarcane bagasse pyrolysis and to discuss its thermodynamic characteristics using the combination of multi-DAEM and differential thermal analysis (DTA). The heating rate of 10, 30, and 50 °C/min was employed. The results revealed that the multi-DAEM with five pseudo components and Weibull distribution shape gave the lowest relative root mean of the squared error (RRMSE) of 0.66% and 0.41%, respectively. Kinetic and thermodynamic studies showed that the 1st and 4th pseudo components which represent lignin, have activation energy (E0) of 189.6 and 180.6 kJ/mol, and less endothermic or possibly exothermic properties. Meanwhile, the 2nd, 3rd, and 5th pseudo components which represent cellulose, hemicellulose, and moisture have activation energy (E0) of 176.1, 152.2, and 145.6 kJ/mol, respectively, and endothermic properties.
How to Calculate Statistics for Significant Difference Test Using SPSS: Understanding Students Comprehension on the Concept of Steam Engines as Power Plant
Authors: Fiandini Meli , Nandiyanto Asep Bayu Dani , Al Husaeni Dwi Fitria , Al Husaeni Dwi Novia , Mushiban M.
Published: March 2024

A significant difference test is used to evaluate certain treatments on the sample in two different observation periods.  One of the commonly used software is SPSS which is used to analyze data which helps researchers in calculating data so that it can be completed quickly. However, there are still many students and researchers who are not experts in calculating data using SPSS software, especially significant difference tests. This article aims to provide a step-by-step guide in calculating data using SPSS for statistical requirements and significant difference tests. To understand the calculations well using SPSS, we demonstrate the requirements tests (i.e., normality and homogeneity tests), parametric significant difference tests (i.e., One Sample t-test, Paired sample t-test, and Independent Sample t-test), and non-parametric (i.e., Wilcoxon test and Mann-Whitney test). We also added and demonstrated the steps for calculating data in the field of education with the variables analyzed being differences in student learning outcomes. We used the data when delivering the steam engine concept to students, showing how statistical calculation can understand students' comprehension. Bibliometric analysis regarding statistics was also added. This paper can be used as a guide in carrying out statistical tests using SPSS software.
Alternative Energy Options for a Thai Durian Farm: Feasibility Study and Experiments for the Combination of Solar Photovoltaics and Repurposed Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Wangsupphaphol Aree , Phichaisawat Sotdhipong , Lengkayan Raweewan
Published: March 2024

This research examines the viability of incorporating a second-life lithium-ion battery energy storage system with a solar photovoltaic power source to facilitate energy acquisition in two irrigation scenarios at a durian farm located in Thailand. The first option entails selecting the battery with suitable dimensions to effectively harness solar energy following morning irrigation, while the second option involves sizing the battery specifically for storing solar energy solely for the purpose of powering the motor pump. This study conducts an analysis on the degradation of the battery, focusing on the influence of specific environmental conditions and its specification. The degradation analysis employs polynomial functions as an alternative to exponential semi-empirical stress models for fitting stress models. This approach demonstrates a robust fit, as evidenced by a high R-squared value of approximately 1. The economic analysis considers various factors, including solar irradiance derating factors, battery deterioration rate, and photovoltaic power ratings for all scenarios. The sensitivity analysis evaluates the variations in irradiance and costs associated with the battery. When solar radiation levels surpass 500 W/m2 and the cost of the battery remains below $100/kWh, the estimated payback period is approximately 5 years over the duration of the 10-year project lifespan.
Experience of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy after hemiablation of the prostate with high-intensity focused ultrasound using the Focal One robotic platform: clinical case
Authors: Alaverdyan A. I. , Govorov A. V. , Vasilyev A. О. , Kolontarev K. B. , Prilepskaya E. A. , Pushkar D. Yu.
Published: March 2024

As new methods of focal treatment become more and more popular in the treatment of prostate cancer, cases of ineffective treatment are gradually revealed, which require correction in the volume of surgical or other method of treatment.

The article describes experience of radical treatment of prostate cancer in case of local recurrence of the disease after ultrasound ablation of the prostate.

A 58-year-old man who 1 year ago had undergone high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) hemiablation of the left prostatic lobe using Focal One robotic platrform due to prostate adenocarcinoma was examined 1 year after the operation. Total prostate-specific antigen blood level was 5.45 ng/mL. The patient underwent a control transrectal biopsy of the prostate from 12 cores, which revealed recurrence of the disease in the contralateral (previously untreated) prostate lobe. The patient underwent robot-assisted radical prostatectomy. Operative time was 80 minutes. The patient was discharged from the hospital on the 7th day with no postoperative complications. The urethral catheter was removed on the 6th day after control CT cystography. Erectile function and urine retention were preserved. Total prostate-specific antigen level after 6 months of follow-up did not exceed 0.02 ng/mL.

Robot-assisted radical prostatectomy is an effective and safe method of treatment in patients with recurrent prostatic adenocarcinoma after HIFU if performed by a surgeon with sufficient experience in robot-assisted surgery.
The Mediation of Arithmetic Problem-solving by Third-graders: the Procedure of “Assembling Sets”
Authors: Lobanova A.D. , Vysotskaya E.V.
Published: March 2024

The purpose of our study was to reveal students’ typical difficulties when performing trivial transformations of several quantities, which are to be coordinated. We have designed two tasks that required to build up the "sets", and to keep their ratio. 97 third-graders from three secondary Moscow schools were recruited for this study. The participants solved the first task individually in the written form, and afterwards there were 25 couples randomly selected to solve the similar task jointly in an oral interview with the experimenter. The analysis of the results revealed the weakness and confusion of most of the surveyed students in solving such problems. The in-depth consideration of the written works and interviews allowed us to characterize the model means, used by students, as formal or meaningful. Among them, only the “portion-by-portion” measurement of two independent quantities, performed through drawing or using the counting material, provided by the experimenter, turned out to be effective. The study showed that the source of difficulties in solving problems related to “assembling sets” is the lack of adequate model mediation, and confirmed the relevance of considering the "assembling sets problem" in the general line of development of the number concept in primary mathematics education within the framework of V.V. Davydov's theory of learning activity.
Testing the P/S Amplitude Seismic Source Discriminant at Local Distances Using Seismic Events Within and Surrounding the Kloof Gold Mine, South Africa, and the Kiruna Iron Ore Mine, Northern Sweden
Authors: Rathnayaka Sampath , Nyblade Andrew , Lund Björn , Ammon Charles , Durrheim Raymond , Masethe Richard
Published: March 2024

We investigate the utility of the P/S amplitude discriminant for small seismic events recorded at local distances on surface seismic networks using (1) mining-related events from within the Kloof gold mine in South Africa; and (2) mining-related events and earthquakes within and adjacent to the Kiruna iron ore mine in northern Sweden. For the Kloof mine, seventy-five source mechanisms characterized by moment tensor solutions obtained using high-frequency in-mine seismic data are used to evaluate three mine-related source types, isotropic (crush), compensated linear vector dipole (crush-slip), and double-couple (DC; pure slip). For the Kiruna mine region, 270 events are used to evaluate earthquake sources, chemical explosions, and mine-related seismic events (primarily isotropic). For the Kloof mine events, we find that average P/S amplitude ratios measured in the 2–6 Hz frequency band discriminate between isotropic and DC events, and if only pure-slip events with a DC component of >60% are considered, the effective frequency band can be extended from 2 to 8 Hz. For the Kiruna region events, P/S amplitude ratios effectively discriminate earthquakes from chemical explosions in the 4–6 Hz and 10–28 Hz frequency bands. Our findings further show that average P/S amplitude ratios for mine-related events and earthquakes separate at frequencies of 10 Hz and higher. A comparison of amplitude ratios for crush and pure-slip events located within a depth range of 1 km in the Kloof mine, and a comparison of amplitude ratios of shallow (<10 km depth) and deep-focus (>20 km depth) earthquakes in the Kiruna region, indicate that the P/S amplitude discriminant is not influenced significantly by source depth. These findings thus suggest that the P/S amplitude discriminant, originally developed for larger events recorded at regional and teleseismic distances, can be extended to smaller events recorded at local distances.
A Recent History of Activism for Accessibility in Japan (1981–2006)
Authors: Bookman Mark R.
Published: March 2024

In this article, I consider how Japanese activists for accessibility localized concepts born out of American and European advocacy, reinterpreted them in light of domestic conditions, and then used them to pass policies for some physically disabled communities between 1981 and 2006. My analysis, which examines newspapers, magazines, state records, and documents from disability organizations, highlights how Japanese activists negotiated global understandings of Independent Living and capitalized on local concerns about the nation’s aging population to convince policy makers to promote the creation of barrier-free facilities and implementation of Universal Design. I conclude that the study of disability in Japan and other parts of the world must include the study of successes and failures of activism for accessibility in differing cultural contexts, and that further research on Japan is needed to continue improving the inclusivity of our increasingly global society.
Bipolar in the Academy: A Case of Testimonial Smothering
Authors: Hess Juliet
Published: March 2024

This paper explores my active suppression of my bipolar identity as a case of “testimonial smothering” (Dotson, 2011) in the academy. Dotson theorizes testimonial smothering as a distinctly epistemic injustice. I explicate concepts of epistemic injustice—both testimonial and hermeneutical injustice (Fricker, 2007)—and testimonial smothering and argue that the pervasive nature of stereotypes and overarching discourses about Madness in society may lead a person who identifies as Mad to smother their identity. Following a discussion of the ways that people who identify as Mad are subject to epistemic injustice that wrongs them in their capacity as knowers, I point to the necessity of being understood as a “knower” in academia. Subsequently, I argue that having to “pass” as sane constitutes epistemic violence and further explore the distinctly hermeneutical dimensions of the injustice that shapes the often invisibility of Mad people in the academy. Discussion about the complexities of decisions about passing and disclosure follows. I ultimately assert that visibility and representation of Mad people and the recognition of the epistemic value of Mad perspectives are crucial to moving forward.
Food, the Production of Normalcy, and the Archive of Autism
Authors: Wallach Jennifer Jensen
Published: March 2024

In the 1970s, precursors to present-day autism therapies were often centered around food. Psychologists and other professionals forced children to fast, fed them mega-doses of vitamins, and/or forced them to cooperate with therapeutic protocols in order to earn the right to eat. These actions were performed in the name of “curing” their neurological condition and making them “normal.” Mistreatment of autistic people has often been couched under the misleading guise of “treatment,” yet there are numerous parallels between autistic subjugation and that of other minoritized groups. Examining this history brings food studies and disability studies into productive conversation, revealing the correlation between food control and social standing. The archive that documents this history includes clinical case studies, therapeutic and diagnostic manuals, and the life-writing of non-autistic observers. These materials document observed behavior without demonstrating curiosity about or awareness of autistic interiorities. Scholars have the obligation to read these sources creatively to piece together autistic histories, and the vast autism medical-industrial complex has the opportunity to use these insights to reevaluate current autism therapies, which often have the same ideological underpinnings of these earlier techniques and make autistic access to food conditional.
Breast Cancer: An Environmental Disease
Authors: Lynch Marion , Jackson Jalaia , Rodriguez Rosa
Published: March 2024

Breast cancer is a major health problem that is not adequately addressed through the current seek and destroy approach. It requires a systemic environmental approach – one that recognizes breast cancer as an environmental disease and therefore a disease that can be prevented by implementing changes to the environment.
A prospective study to assess the feasibility of single port laparoscopic needle assisted repair of pediatric inguinal hernias
Authors: Iman Juveria , Gajanthody Suhitha , Ahmed Ashraf , Deep Gagan , Ali P.S.M , B Harishchandra
Published: March 2024

Background: Congenital inguinal hernias are very common paediatric surgical conditions with incidence of 0.8 – 4.4% in children and up to 30% in preterm babies, which occur due to the failure of closure of the processus vaginalis. While the gold standard treatment remains to be open herniotomy, in the last two decades minimally invasive surgeries have revolutionized the hernia surgery and have evolved from 3 port to single port, intracorporeal knotting to extracorporeal knotting and 5 mm camera port to 3 mm camera port with multiple benefits. Methodology: This is a prospective study conducted at a single tertiary care centre over 1 year. All the patients admitted under the Department of Paediatric Surgery, with a clinical and/or radiological diagnosis of inguinal hernia and planned for single port laparoscopic needle assisted repair were included in the study. Data was collected in terms of intra operative finding, duration of procedure, complications, pain and post operative hospital stay. Results: A total of 40 patients were included in the study with a male predominance. Clinically majority were right inguinal hernia which was reducible. Intraoperatively, 7 cases of bilateral hernia were identified which were not detected pre operatively. 2 patients who underwent this procedure had complications and majority of the patients had mild pain. Conclusion: Single port laparoscopic herniotomy is at par with gold standard open herniotomy in the paediatric population. This procedure has better cosmesis, lesser post operative pain, hospital stay and most importantly it could identify occult hernias.
Effectiveness in the Long-Term Follow-Up of Brief Group Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy in Quality of Life, Symptoms, Coping, Anxiety, and Depression in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients
Authors: Conceição Céu , Meinão Ivone , Blay Sérgio , Sato Emília
Published: March 2024

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness in the long-term follow-up of brief group psychoanalytic psychotherapy in improving quality of life, symptoms, coping strategies, anxiety, and depression levels in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. Methods: Prospective, randomized clinical trial including 80 SLE patients divided into two groups: therapy (n=37) and control (n=43), with standard clinical care. Therapy group received weekly therapy for 20 weeks. The assessments were at baseline, after 20 weeks and after 24 months from the end of intervention. Damage and disease activity were assessed by rheumatologists. Self-administered questionnaires were supervised by blind evaluators: quality of life, symptoms, coping strategies, anxiety, and depression. Intent to treat statistical analysis. Comparisons of variance between groups over time (ANOVA repeated measures). P <0.05 significant. Results: At baseline, both groups were homogeneous. After intervention, therapy group showed significant improvement in most domains of quality of life, symptoms, all domains of anxiety, and depression and several domains of coping strategies. Benefits in quality of life and coping remained at 24 months follow-up. However, the improvement in anxiety, and depression was not maintained. Medications and clinical variables did not change. Conclusion: This study showed the effectiveness of brief group psychoanalytic psychotherapy in improving quality of life, symptoms and coping strategies in SLE patients even in the long-term follow-up. Depression and anxiety levels reduced at the end of therapy, although, the improvement did not last 24 months.
Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis in Otorhinolar¬yngology: A Case Series Describing the Challenges in their Management
Authors: Sanjay Ashta , Sreedharan Nambiar , K P Sunil , R T Abdul , M K Sreejith , Kambrath Midhuna , Edapparambil Anusha
Published: March 2024

Background: In Otorhinolaryngology, tuberculosis (TB) though uncommon is not a rare clinical problem. HIV-TB co-infection, multidrug resistant tuberculosis (MDR TB), and Extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB) continue to be major public health threats. The success of the WHO, “END TB” strategy requires their effective management. In this article we look into the challenges while dealing with cases of EPTB in otorhinolaryngology. Case Series: The clinical presentations & epidemiology of patients with extra pulmonary tuberculosis in otorhinolaryngology highlight the challenges in their management. Patients with laryngeal TB and TB of oral cavity and oropharynx are cases where the diagnosis can be easily delayed owing to lack of awareness and the need to exclude the other commoner lesions. The early diagnosis can be challenging with symptoms that mimic malignancy with subsequent hurdle being obtaining the histopathology report and confirmation of diagnosis. As elimination of this disease is the target which needs to be met there is need to ascertain features that will help accomplish the goal. Discussion: Laryngeal tuberculosis is an area that demands high index of suspicion with technical expertise in obtaining positive yield on histopathology which can at times be challenging. Dysphagia is a symptom where the diagnosis of tuberculosis in our patient came as a surprise rather than the norm which required the histopathological report to retrospectively think on the likely pathology. Conclusion: Extrapulmonary tuberculosis in otorhinolaryngology can have varied and atypical presentations responsible for delay in diagnosis. Awareness of this entity especially when the clinical signs are out of proportion to the symptoms among patients presenting to ENT OPD and emergency is necessary for prompt treatment. The features of carcinoma co-existing and confusing the diagnosis; along with paucibacillary nature of the specimens resulting in negative cultures makes histopathological examination mandatory, which is one among the challenges to be addressed for early diagnosis of EPTB cases in ENT. The timely initiation of anti tubercular treatment (ATT) can help avoid unnecessary surgery and morbidity
Systematic Review of the Trajectory Patterns of Distress Over the Cancer Continuum Among People Living with Cancer in the United States
Authors: McElroy Jane , Weston Karry , Spence Kayla , Wilson Gwen
Published: March 2024

Purpose: Recommendations have been made for distress screening for all newly diagnosed cancer patients at their initial consult and along the cancer continuum. This review aims to synthesize the literature presenting distress trajectories of people living with cancer by describing distress trajectories by cancer site, assessment in the cancer continuum, by sex, and by instruments used. Methods: A systematic review identified 5,792 quantitative studies that included distress trajectories associated with people living with cancer. Databases searched included Ovid-Medline, Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, JSTOR, ScienceDirect, Wiley Interscience, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), and PsycINFO. Data from 20 studies were extracted and summarized. Results: Among the 20 studies, the five trajectory types described are low remaining low, low worsening to clinically high, recovery (low to high and back down to low), clinically high improving to low, and clinically high remaining clinically high. Of the 1,625 people living with cancer, 16% (262 people living with cancer) had trajectories with distress measuring high on their final outcome measure. Only 9 out of 20 studies described the distress trajectory over the full cancer continuum, from diagnosis through treatment and into follow-up care. Conclusion: To advance current knowledge on ideal intervention times for clinicians in efficiently addressing distress among people living with cancer, distress measures collected throughout the cancer continuum for individual cancers are needed.
Comparative Studies of Continuous Versus Pulsatile Delivery of a Novel Mammalian Cell-Derived Variant of GDNF (GDNFv) into the Rhesus Macaque Striatum
Authors: Grondin Richard , Littrell Ofelia , Ai Yi , Huettl Peter , Pomerleau Francois , Quintero Jorge , Gash Don , Zhang Zhiming , Gerhardt Greg
Published: March 2024

Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) remains a promising disease modifying therapeutic agent for the dopamine-containing neurons that are affected in Parkinson’s disease and recent clinical findings show renewed promise for its use in patients with Parkinson’s disease. However, translating this approach from research laboratories to the clinic has been met with obstacles, including insufficient brain biodistribution, immunogenicity, and poor stability of unglycosylated wildtype GDNF produced from bacteria. We have previously reported that continuous infusion of a novel glycosylated mammalian variant of GDNF (GDNFv) has increased biodistribution compared to wildtype GDNF along with increased dopamine turnover in the non-human primate brain. Here, we extend these findings by comparing continuous versus pulsatile intrastriatal infusion of GDNFv in intact rhesus macaques. Intermittent, pulsatile delivery paradigms were explored to possibly enhance drug distribution in the brain while decreasing the total amount of drug and infusion volume needed to achieve target activation. Vehicle or GDNFv was directly administered into the putamen via a pump and catheter system using a constant flow rate or using pulsatile profiles of two patterns: pulsatile infusion of 24-hour duration or 48-hour duration. Study endpoints involved comparisons of brain biodistribution, retrograde transport to nigral neurons and dopamine turnover. Each catheter was placed in or near the center of the putamen as confirmed by post-operative magnetic resonance imaging. Our results support that continuous and pulsatile administration of GDNFv was well tolerated in all animals. In addition, pulsatile delivery of GDNFv demonstrated favorable physiological activity of potential therapeutic value with biodistribution, retrograde transport to nigral cells and significant dopamine turnover modulation comparable or better than that achieved with continuous flow delivery. More importantly, the animals administered GDNFv via pulsatile protocols only received half the total drug amount and half the infused volume used in the continuously-infused animals, while still attaining a similar efficacy in increasing dopamine turnover. These data suggest that pulsatile delivery of trophic factors, such as GDNFv, may be a viable disease altering strategy for patients with Parkinson’s disease by offering a means to reduce the drug amount needed to improve dopamine function while limiting potential therapeutic barriers.
Совместные предприятия и особенности их функционирования
Authors: Кастуев Д.Э.
Published: March 2024

В данной статье рассматриваются особенности функционирования совместных предприятий, их цели создания в Российской Федерации, а также анализируется динамика их развития и особенности регистрации. Совместные предприятия представляют собой форму сотрудничества между компаниями, которая позволяет им объединить ресурсы и опыт для достижения общих целей. Важно учитывать, что в России совместные предприятия могут создаваться как в формате с участием иностранного капитала, так и только между российскими компаниями.
Низкопотенциальный электросинтез гипохлорита
Authors: Фирсова Л.Ю. , Нугманов А.М.
Published: March 2024

Гипохлорит натрия, получаемый электролизом щелочных растворов хлорида натрия,. широко используется для обеззараживания водопроводной воды, обезвреживания бытовых и промышленных сточных вод Электролиз ведут с применением малоизнашиваемых анодов (графит, размерно-стабильные DSA-аноды на титановой основе с напылением из оксидов рутения или иридия ОРТА, ОИРТА) при плотностях тока, соответствующих выделению газообразного хлора, который при взаимодействии с щелочью, генерируемой в прикатодной области, дает гипохлорит натрия. Изучены условия получения гипохлорита электролизом растворов хлорида натрия в низкопотенциальной области и возможность его использования в технологических схемах водоподготовки и очистки сточных вод.
Нормализация данных как фактор повышения эффективности бинарной классификации
Authors: Корнеев В.П.
Published: March 2024

Был произведѐн анализ данных, собранных с канала на интернет ресурсе YouTube. Проанализировано влияние различных факторов на показатель доли подписок с использованием и без использования нормализации данных. Были получены результаты и сделаны выводы об эффективности использования нормализации при бинарной классификации.
Воспитание любви к Родине у младших школьников при использовании электронных образовательных ресурсов в организации их деятельности на уроках русского языка
Authors: Антохина В.А. , Марченко А.И. , Тюленева В.В.
Published: March 2024

В данной статье обосновывается актуальность воспитания любви к Родине у обучающихся начальных классов в современной социально-политической ситуации. Рассматривается потенциал электронных образовательных ресурсов в решении задач обучения, развития и воспитания младших школьников. Для обсуждения предлагается вариант разработанной нами и апробированной в реальной школьной практике мультимедийной игры, нацеленной на патриотическое воспитание обучающихся в начальном языковом образовании.
Влияние прослушивания классической музыки на психоэмоциональное состояние студентов-психологов
Authors: Сокнова С.А. , Дворцова Е.В.
Published: March 2024

В данной статье представлены результаты экспериментального исследования влияния прослушивания классической музыки на психоэмоциональное состояние студентов-психологов. Обоснована актуальность исследования и проанализированы основные понятия научной работы, рассмотрены взгляды и подходы зарубежных и отечественных ученых.