bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Non-verbal Communication on Educational Satisfaction and Class Attitude in Skin Care Practical Classes at Beauty Colleges
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Lim Juha , Chon Haejung
Published: January 2024

This study was conducted to find out the effect of non-verbal communication on educational satisfaction and instructional attitude of skin care practical classes at Beauty University. From June 20 to July 30, 2023, a survey was conducted on third and fourth graders attending the College of Beauty, and a total of 220 copies were analyzed using the SPSS WIN 21.0 program. As a result of the study, non-verbal communication was found to have a positive correlation in body language, similar language, and physical appearance factors. In addition, it was found that nonverbal communication of skin care practical class instructors affects educational satisfaction and class attitude. Among them, body language factors using movements such as hand gestures, gestures, and nodding were found to have the greatest influence. Therefore, instructors need to properly utilize and research and develop nonverbal communication factors in order to increase satisfaction with skin beauty practical classes and pursue correct instructional attitudes.
The Effect of Self-Esteem of University Students Majoring in Visual Design on Major Satisfaction
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Oh Taewon
Published: January 2024

In contemporary society, visual design surpasses mere aesthetic expression, establishing itself as a crucial field for message delivery and communication through a variety of media. University students majoring in visual design are increasingly recognized for acquiring a range of professional skills, including creativity and technical expertise. During this process, self-esteem and satisfaction with their major emerge as significant factors. However, there is limited research on how the self-esteem of students majoring in visual design impacts their satisfaction with their major. In this study, 251 copies were used as final analysis data by composing a questionnaire based on previous studies, and these data were analyzed using the PASW Statistics 18.0 program. The results of the study, This study’s findings reveal that the sub-components of self-esteem, namely the social, familial, and academic selves, predominantly exert a statistically significant positive influence on major satisfaction. These results highlight the substantial effect of self-esteem on the satisfaction levels of students in visual design majors. This study anticipates stimulating more discussions on the relationship between self-esteem and major satisfaction among students in this field.
A Study on Undergraduates' Perception of Writing Ethics: Focusing on Plagiarism
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Na Eunyoung
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study is to enhance ethical writing practices among undergraduates by examining their awareness of writing ethics. To investigate undergraduates' awareness of writing ethics, a survey was conducted among 100 undergraduates at University A, and the results were analyzed. As a result of the survey, 57% of students recognized writing ethics, and 95% of students answered that writing ethics education was necessary. 35% of students had plagiarized, and the reason for plagiarism was that they did not know what to write. Twice as many respondents said that education and information are needed to prevent plagiarism rather than regulations and punishment. Data collection was most often done through Internet search, and the rate of using portal search was high when searching online. Most of the students were quoting when writing, and there were many students who did not mark the source even though they knew that they had to mark the source when quoting. Therefore, it was found that in order to improve writing ethics, education should be actively conducted and awareness of plagiarism should be raised.
International Students' Perception of Sheltered Content Instruction in University Major Courses
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Kang MinSuk
Published: January 2024

In the current context of a rapid increase in the proportion of international students within universities, this study aims to analyze the perception of international students regarding sheltered content instruction applied in major courses. To achieve this goal, a survey was conducted on 102 international students who took major courses with sheltered content instruction. The results can be summarized as follows. Firstly, international students expressed considerable confidence in major courses with sheltered content instruction, perceiving a high level of understanding of the content and the Korean language used by the instructors. Additionally, their preference for sheltered content instruction and their desire for future enrollment were both high, indicating an overall positive perception of sheltered content instruction. Based on the opinions collected, this study provides recommendations for implementing sheltered content instruction, including faculty retraining.
A Study on the Subjects of Textbooks for Korean as Liberal Arts: Focusing on the Culture of College Life
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Lee Ahreum
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to examine the subject of liberal arts Korean textbooks for international college students studying in Korean universities, focusing on culture of college life, and to explore future tasks. Based on previous studies, the culture of college life were classified into seven categories. In addition, as a result of analyzing textbooks for three types of academic Korean learners based on this, it was found that the contents of the 'interpersonal relationships' category need to be supplemented first. Second, it is necessary to select and arrange culture of college life items to be reflected in the textbook in consideration of the appropriateness and diversity of the subject, and the needs of learners. Finally, it is necessary to consider how to integrate culture of college life into textbooks, and not simply provide information on the system or explain and deliver related manual.
Construction of Epistemology on the Integration of Knowledge from the Perspective of the Quran
Authors: Fajri Muhamad
Published: January 2024

The Quran is a divine book that encompasses scientific knowledge and has contributed to the development of various branches of knowledge in deferent aspect of life. Therefore, this research aims to discover and analyze Quranic verses related to epistemology and the concept of integrating knowledge from the Quranic perspective. This study is literature review using a philosophical approach and content analysis of three tafsir books, namely Tafsir Ibnu Katsir, Tafsir Jalalyn, and Tafsir Al-Misbah. The Result of the research indicate the existence of verses that synonymous with epistemological activities, such as reading, thinking, observing, reflecting, contemplating, investigating, and so on. Furthermore, it was found that there are two fundamental concept in integrating knowledge from the Quranic perspective. First, it is based on human needs as mentioned in the Quran (An-Nas, Al-Insan, Albashr, and Bani Adam). Second, it is based on the epistemological model of Islamic knowledge (Bayani, Tajrbi, Burhani, and Irfani).
Trans-Paradigm of Ex-Khilafah Ideologists; Paradigm Changes Analysis of Ex-Khilafah Ideologists in Tapal Kuda
Authors: Humaidi Rif'an , Mukaffan Mukaffan , Imam Mashur
Published: January 2024

This research is based on the gap between the theory of religious conflict and the reality of the religious transition paradigm currently. Media issues have warmed up again lately with some news about the policy of disbanding radical mass organizations. After the dissolution of Hizbut Tahrir Indonesia (HTI), the Islamic Defenders Front (FPI) stumbled on administrative problems. After it was disbanded, the all members and cadres of the organizations chose to change their religious paradigm. The transition process is the main focus of this research. Based on the general framework of the shifting paradigm theory, the sub-focus consists of how to anomaly, the Critique process untill form a new paradigm of ex- Khilafah ideologues. In order to further limit the study, the site raised is the former ideologue Khilafah of Tapal Kuda. All problems are studied qualitatively using a phenomenological approach. The important findings of this study can be divided into three parts. First, the anomaly of the ex- Khilafah ideologue. There are three forms of anomaly, namely socio-cultural anomaly, siyasa anomaly and tradition anomaly. Second, the Critique process of ex- Khilafah ideologues. Its scope are socio-cultural Critique and siyasa Critique. Third, his new paradigm. There are two patterns of paradigm for the former ideology of the Khilafah, namely there are those who continue to fight for the Khilafah and there are those who choose to continue their ideological struggle. The first group carried out the process of marhala tsaqif and taf'ul. This last group bases its religious views on the majority, namely the religious paradigm of NU and Pesantren.
From Nasyid to Gambus: Discovering Spiritual Dimensions in Contemporary Indonesian Music Art
Authors: Al-Asyhar Thobib
Published: January 2024

A lot of research has been conducted on the relationship between music and mysticism. However, most of the research focuses on the music and practices of Islamic mysticism in Turkey, South Asia, and Persia. There is some research on music in Indonesia, but the focus is more on youth preferences towards the genre of hadrah. This research aims to discuss aspects of spirituality, such as meaning, transcendence, to values in sufistic music in Indonesia. Using qualitative research methods with descriptive approaches, this study found that some of the Indonesian musical genres, ranging from nasyid, gambus, pop, and dangdut, have spiritual dimensions even though the music is not purely Islamic. The spiritual dimensions of such music vary, including meaning, values, transcendence, connectivity, and becoming, a manifestation of life that requires reflection and experience. These five spiritual dimensions are sometimes clearly written in lyrics, but sometimes obscurely contained in them. This research has theoretical implications that Sufistic music does not necessarily form music of the Islamic genre or music created by the Sufists; Sufistic music can be any genre of music to the extent it is judged to contain values or dimensions of the spirituality of Islamic Tasawuf itself.
THE INFLUENCE OF LEARNING MODEL AND SCHOOL ORIGIN ON PSYCHOMOTOR OUTCOMES ISLAMIC FAITH AND MORALITY
Authors: Polem Muhammad , Cahya Afrilia Dwi , Akbarjono Ali , Kariadinata Rahayu , Malik Adam
Published: January 2024

The aim of this research is to examine existence or absence of the influence and interaction between the learning models (PBL, PjBL, Conventional) and students' school origins in determining psychomotor learning outcomes in the subject of Islamic Faith and Morality. The method used in this research is a quantitative approach with a Quasi-Experimental Design using the Nonequivalent Control Group Design type. The research results indicate that the implementation of the PBL, PjBL, and Conventional learning models in determining psychomotor learning outcomes in Islamic Faith and Morality does not significantly differ from each other. This is reinforced by the Post Hoc Model Learning table. PBL vs. PjBL with an Asymp. Sig. value of 0.260 > 0.05. PBL vs. Conventional with an Asymp. Sig. value of 0.083 > 0.05. PjBL vs. Conventional with an Asymp. Sig. value of 1.000 > 0.05. In conclusion, there are differences in students' psychomotor learning outcomes based on the learning model with an Asymp. Sig. value of 0.001 < 0.05. There are no differences in students' psychomotor learning outcomes based on school origins with an Asymp. Sig. value of 0.470 > 0.05, and there’s an interaction between the learning model and school origins as evidenced by the Asymp.Sig. value of 0.007 < 0,05. So the implications in this research illustrate that students' psychomotor learning outcomes in the Akidah Akhlak subject are more dominantly influenced by the learning model applied in the classroom rather than the student's school origin.
STUDENT STRATEGIES IN UNDERSTANDING CONTENT KNOWLEDGE OF RELIGIOUS MODERATION BASED ON ACADEMIC BACKGROUND
Authors: Syihabuddin Syihabuddin , Maulani Hikmah
Published: January 2024

This research aims to examine the strategies used by students in understanding content knowledge in the field of religious moderation. To achieve this goal, a case study method involving 150 students from the Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI) in the fields of language, vocational, and social studies was used. The data collection technique used was through questionnaires about the strategies used by students in understanding religion or religious moderation, and an attitude scale instrument to determine students' views on understanding strategies or knowledge acquisition. The results of the statistical analysis will be discussed, examined for trends, and compared with previous research findings or opinions. After the discussion, this study concludes that the most commonly used strategy by students is attending religious studies and engaging in discussions with individuals considered to have a better understanding of religion.
HIDAYATUL MUTA'ALLIM AS THE MAIN FOUNDATION OF THE FORMATION OF MODERATE ISLAMIC CHARACTER FOR STUDENTS
Authors: Sinta Dewi , Rosidi Ahmad , Rohman Fathor
Published: January 2024

The formation of the character of moderate Islamic students was a big responsibility of the asatidz or teachers in the country in building the younger generation. This research used research methodology with a qualitative approach with the type of case study research conducted at the Al-Qodiri Islamic Boarding School, especially in Madrasah Tsanawiyah "Unggulan" Al-Qodiri with the aim of analyzing the use of the book Hidayatul Muta'allim as a basic guideline for the formation of moderate Islamic character of grade VII MTs "Unggulan" Al-Qodiri students. The results showed that the book Hidayatul Muta'allim is very relevant as the main foundation for the formation of moderate Islamic character Santri in Madrasah Tsanawiyah "Unggulan" Al-Qodiri Jember. The implications of this research were expected to facilitate the moderate Islamic character of students.
THE SPECIAL GUIDE TEACHER CLASS MANAGEMENT ON CREATING INCLUSIVE STUDENT LEARNING MOTIVATION IN URBAN AREA
Authors: Gunawan Agus , Habibi Habibi , Maulahamdi Hudisa
Published: January 2024

This research objective was to analyse the influence of special supervising teachers' classroom management on creating inclusive student learning motivation in urban areas. This research used quantitative methods with a case study approach. A sampling of special supervisor teachers for inclusive classes in Serang City or urban areas. Data analysis used hypothesis testing with SPSS software version 23.00 with correlation between variables. The research results showed a positive influence between the class management of the class supervisor on creating inclusive student learning motivation with an influence contribution of 70.9%. The results showed a significant influence between accompanying teachers' classroom management and student learning motivation in inclusive elementary schools throughout urban areas. The research implied that the better the accompanying teacher's classroom management, the higher contribution to inclusive student learning motivation and vice versa; the less good the accompanying teacher's classroom management, the lower the creation of inclusive student learning motivation.
To Boost Students Speaking Skill through Mobile Augmented Reality
Authors: Islam Syaiful , Muali Chusnul
Published: January 2024

There has recently been a spike in student enthusiasm in using technology to engage in their study. Augmented reality is one of the technologies that has been determined to be acceptable for usage in educational settings such as science, mathematics, and engineering. As a result, this study looked into the usefulness of employing mobile augmented reality (MAR) to improve students' speaking skills. This study employed a quasi-experimental approach with two groups: control and experimental. They are conducting MAR and traditional instructional methods teaching and learning sessions. According to the findings of this study, students in the experimental group demonstrated considerably higher levels of speaking skills than those in the control group following teaching and learning. Furthermore, this study discovered that MAR can help to highlight student-centered learning, stimulate student interest and curiosity, improve student cognitive, emotional, and psychomotor processes, and increase student involvement in the information-seeking process. It is recommended that educators employ MAR in their teaching and learning since it has effectively improved students' speaking skills and encouraged a better grasp of knowledge
The Persuasive Role of Meta-Discourse Markers in Digital Advertising
Authors: Ali Sri Widyarti , Husain Nurlaila
Published: January 2024

This study investigates the persuasive use of interactive and interactional meta-discourse markers in digital advertising, employing Hyland's (2005) model. Interactive meta-discourse encompasses transition markers, frame markers, endophoric markers, evidential, and code glosses, while interactional meta-discourse includes hedges, boosters, attitude markers, self-mentions, and engagement markers. The process of data collection includes extracting data from websites with digital advertisements, analyzing the use of meta-discourse markers in these ads to understand their context and purpose, and categorizing these markers into interactive and interactional categories. Data analysis involves identifying and examining the presence of these markers in digital advertising, interpreting how they contribute to persuasion in the text, and presenting the findings by categorizing interactive and interactional meta-discourse markers while explaining their persuasive significance. The research reveals that in advertisements for beauty products and luxury cars, transition markers are the sole category of interactive meta-discourse used. In contrast, interactional meta-discourse exhibits a broader range of categories in advertising, encompassing attitude markers, self-mention, engagement markers, and boosters.
Student Perceptions of English Courses in The Law Department: A Case Study at Nurul Jadid University
Authors: Suryanto Bradhiansyah Tri , Ekaputri Natasya Amanda , Sari Silvia Meila
Published: January 2024

The focus of this study is on how students perceive their prior English-language learning experiences. The study intends to carefully investigate these perceptions in order to provide useful information to university administration and academics. The outcomes are anticipated to act as a basis for well-informed decision-making, helping the institution to raise the standard of English instruction as a whole. This research has the potential to help educators better personalize English learning programs to meet the various requirements and expectations of the students. This study examined the complex web of students' views related to the English learning process using a quantitative descriptive method and survey techniques. The research incorporated a wide range of opinions by polling students enrolled in the Undergraduate Law Study Program at the University of Nurul Jadid who had taken English courses. The third, fifth, and seventh semesters of the law undergraduate study program were the focus of the data collecting, which took place between October 7 and 15, 2023. The findings, revealed in-depth tables, revealed the subtleties of students' perspectives, concentrating on cognitive, affection, and conation aspects inside the English courses of the Nurul Jadid University Law Study Program. Among 21 respondents, 23.8% perceived their understanding as poor, with 33.3% feeling sufficient and another 33.3% considering their understanding good. Only 9.5% felt very good about their grasp of the subject matter, indicating varying levels of comprehension. Regarding affection, 9.5% felt poor, 42.9% felt sufficient, 19.0% felt good, and 28.6% felt very good. Additionally, 9.5% had weak conation, 38.1% had sufficient, and 42.9% had good conation. Identifying factors influencing these aspects is crucial to enhancing student motivation and engagement in English courses.
The Students’ Reading Comprehension Achievement and Perception Towards the Online Reading Material
Authors: Agustina Lia Agustina , Angraini Nike Angraini , Iman Jaya Nur
Published: January 2024

The use of online reading materials to improve students’ reading comprehension achievement is highly recommended. Online reading is separate from reading printed texts since it involved reading digital content such as e-books, e-dictionaries, web pages, and online education. As a result, the study's objectives were to look into the use of online reading resources to help pupils enhance their reading comprehension and to determine whether there is a substantial mean difference between pupils who had been instructed utilizing online materials for reading compared to those who were not. The quasi-experimental design was employed to evaluate the pretest and posttest results in the experimental and control groups. The 70 students were selected and put into two groups on purpose. There were 35 pupils in the experimental group and 35 students in the control group. In addition, pretest, posttest and students’ perception were used to collect the data. The data were analyzed using the SPSS v.25 program and the t-test (paired sample t-test and independent sample t-test). The paired sample t-test result in the experimental group is 9,420> t-table (df=34) is 1.690 at 0.05 The significance threshold was 0.000 0.05, and the sig. (2-tailed) was 0.000 0.05. It was reasonable to establish that students' reading comprehension achievement improved significantly after being taught utilizing online reading materials at SMP Tri Dharma Palembang. Furthermore, the independent sample t-test result The resulting t-value is 20.075> t-table (df=68) is 1.667 at the significant threshold of 0.05 and sig. (2-tailed) is 0.000 0.05. It signifies that there was a statistically significant difference in mean comparing the experimental and control groups. The findings demonstrated that Online reading materials were useful in boosting students' reading comprehension achievement at SMP Tri Dharma Palembang in the academic year 2022/2023.
Improving Students’ Motivation to Collaborate Using Instagram: An Action Research in SMAN 1 Depok Yogyakarta
Authors: Putri Theresia Febi Amanda , Kastuhandani Fidelis Chosa
Published: January 2024

This research aimed to show how Instagram could be used to improve students' motivation to collaborate and how discussing with friends could influence their motivation to be involved in collaborating. This research was conducted knowing that the students’ low motivation in collaboration impacted their activeness in class participation, work results, and low quality of social interactions. This study was classroom action research in two Grade 11 classes as the actual action sites. To collect the data, the researchers interviewed six students in both classes. The ARCS Model by Keller (2023) was used as a framework to answer the research questions: ‘How can Instagram be used to enhance students' collaboration motivation in an interactive online discussion forum? and ‘How can discussions with friends on social media influence student motivation and involvement in collaborative English language learning? The framework was chosen because it was designed to increase students' learning motivation and focused on attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction. This study found that Instagram could improve students’ motivation to collaborate in online discussion forums. Further, the platform transformed passive participants or shy students into active participants to were involved in class collaborations.
The Effectiveness of Cognitive Strategy to Improve Students’ Listening Comprehension Achievement
Authors: Damayanti Alya , Angraini Nike , Angraini Nike , Surayatika Desi , Surayatika Desi
Published: January 2024

Listening plays an important part of the learning process because it can help students understand and respond according to the material presented by the teacher. According to Lafi (2001) a highly integrative talent is listening comprehension. It is crucial to the process of learning or acquiring a language since it helps the development of other language abilities. Thus, the purpose of this study is to find out the use of cognitive strategies on students' listening comprehension and also to find the average difference between students who are taught by using cognitive strategies and those who are not. The purpose of this study is to see how the cognitive process affects students' progress in listening comprehension. This research uses quantitative methods with a research sample used as many as 67 people. 33 people in the experimental class and 34 people in the control class who are students from SMP N 38 Palembang using purposive sampling. Based on the results of research conducted by researcher, researcher found a significant difference in student learning outcomes in classes taught using cognitive strategy methods (experimental class) and classes that were not taught using cognitive strategy methods (control class). Testing to find problems in this study using the Mann-Whitney and Wilcoxon tests. In conclusion, cognitive strategies allow students, especially in SMP N 38 Palembang to effectively improve their listening skills.
Students’ Ability in Writing English Argumentative Essay
Authors: Hikmah Durratul , Khoir Farrah Maulida Nadia
Published: January 2024

Learning to write has a significant impact on determining the ability and quality of students in academic activities. One form of essay featured in academic writing is the argumentative essay. Writing an argumentative essay leads students to explore their opinions or arguments to convince the reader. Nevertheless, some studies show that college students face some difficulties in writing argumentative essays. Hence, the purpose of this study was to investigate the students’ ability to write argumentative essays in terms of essay structure. A qualitative case was used in this study. The data was taken from the final test of the Advance Writing course written by 36 fourth-semester students of the English Language Education Program. The research findings showed that most students’ ability to write an argumentative essay is well developed, with a result of 31%. The result indicated that the students knew how to write an argumentative essay based on its structure, but they still made some mistakes dealing with sentence structure and the credibility of the references used.
The Scottish Militia Issue and the Anxious Origins of Highlandism, 1759–62
Authors: Austin Lockton Richard
Published: January 2024

This article re-evaluates the debates over a proposed Scottish militia that took place in the British public sphere at the height of the Seven Years War and French invasion and Jacobite rebellion scares, and locates within them the origins of the discourse of Highlandism. Accordingly, the real and imagined ethnic traditions and characteristics of Scottish Highlanders to some extent came to represent the entire Scottish nation, while concurrently rehabilitating and replacing former stereotypes of Highlanders as bellicose ‘savages’ and Jacobite ‘rebels.’ Further, the debates were not merely informed by domestic politics and intellectual agendas, as typically assumed in the historiography; they were also tied to the larger geopolitical and cultural entanglements of imperial warfare and continued threats from Franco-Jacobite fifth columns, as circulated in an anxious, mercantilist, wartime print culture. These discourses reveal that mid-century whiggish Britons continued to worry about French-instigated rebellion despite historiographical assumptions to the contrary, and experienced considerable uncertainty and concern for the intertwined problems of foreign enemies, overseas war and domestic politics. This context, the widespread doubts surrounding Scotland’s trustworthiness and relative status within the Union, and the defensive reactions among certain pro-militia ‘Scots’, show how commentators mobilised Highland soldiers in support of Scotland’s deservedness of political, institutional and cultural equality with England. This, however, was not an era of growing confidence, cumulative antigallican military service and a ‘long-eighteenth-century’ process of political and cultural consolidation, but rather a deeply uncertain time of burgeoning global conflict and entangled Scotto-Franco-British identity dynamics which must be more fully considered on their own problematic terms.
Examination of the Association between Periodontal Disease, Tooth Loss, and Risk of Gallbladder Carcinoma : A Case- Control Study in Greek Adults
Authors: Chrysanthakopoulos Nikolaos Andreas , Vryzaki Eleftheria
Published: January 2024

Objective: To estimate the possible association between periodontal disease (PD) clinical indices, and number of missing teeth and the risk of developing gallbladder carcinoma (GBC) in Greek adults using data from a population based case-control study.

Material and Method: The study sample comprised 80 males and 67 females, aged 45 to 79 years. 49 individuals suffered from GBC- cases and 98 were healthy individuals - controls. All clinical indices examined were obtained via a modified standardized questionnaire and an oral and dental clinical examination. Periodontal status included the following clinical parameters, probing pocket depth (PPD), gingival index (GI), plaque index (PlI), clinical attachment loss (CAL), and bleeding on probing (BOP), and the number of missing teeth. The questionnaire included data regarding the dependent and independent risk factors for GBC development. Univariate and logistic regression models adjusted for possible confounders were carried out for data analysis.

Results: Statistical analysis showed that chronic GB inflammation (p=0.00, OR=2.74, 95% CI=1.28-5.86), smoking (p=0.05, OR=1.63, 95% CI=1.26-2.72), GI (p=0.05, OR=1.56, 95% CI=1.20-2.62), and missing teeth more than four teeth (p=0.03, OR=1.74,95% CI=1.30-3.75, p=0.02, OR= 2.03, 95% CI=1.67-4.11) were statistically significantly associated with the risk of developing GBC.

Conclusions: The current research suggested positive associations of chronic inflammation of the gallbladder, smoking, gingival inflammation, and missing teeth more than four with GBC development.
Influence of the mRNA initial region on protein production: a case study using recombinant detoxified pneumolysin as a model
Authors: Fusco Filipe , Pires Manuella Cazelato , Lopes Alexandre Paulo Yague , Alves Vítor dos Santos , Gonçalves Viviane Maimoni
Published: January 2024

Recombinant proteins are of great importance in modern society, mostly as biopharmaceutical products. However, challenging and complex processes with low production yield are major drawbacks. Normally, the optimization to overcome these obstacles is focused on bioreactor and purification processes, and the biomolecular aspects are neglected, seen as less important. In this work, we present how the 5′ mRNA secondary structure region can be relevant for translation and, therefore, protein production. For this, Escherichia coli BL21(DE3) clones, producing recombinant detoxified pneumolysin (PdT) with and without the N-terminal His-tag, were cultivated in 10-L bioreactors. Another version of the pdt gene (version 2) with synonymous changes in the 5′-end nucleotide sequence was also obtained. Protein production, plasmid stability, carbon sources, and acetic acid were quantified during the cultures. Furthermore, in silico mRNA analyses were performed using TIsigner and RNAfold. The results showed that the His-tag presence at the N-terminus generated a minimum 1.5-fold increase in target protein synthesis, which was explained by the in silico mRNA analyses that returned an mRNA secondary structure easier to translate and, therefore, higher protein production than without the His-tag. The pdt gene version 2 showed lower 5′ mRNA opening energy than version 1, allowing higher PdT production even without a tag. This work reveals that simple mRNA analyses during heterologous gene design and production steps can help reach high-recombinant protein titers in a shorter time than using only traditional bioprocess optimization strategies.
Nanotechnological innovations in paediatric tuberculosis management: current trends and future prospects
Authors: Ajayi Taiwo Oreoluwa , Poka Madan Sai , Witika Bwalya Angel
Published: January 2024

Paediatric Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be a major global cause of morbidity and mortality. Children are more prone to contracting TB, which can spread quickly to extrapulmonary infection sites. Although the pathophysiology of the disease, drug pharmacokinetics, and the therapeutic window in children differ from those of adults, the same drugs used to treat adult TB have long been utilised to treat paediatric TB infections. Since many current formulations such as tablets are unsuitable for children due to difficulty swallowing and risk of choking, adult medications are frequently used by breaking or crushing tablets to obtain a paediatric dose. This can result in inaccurate dosing due to pharmacokinetic differences in children which could subsequently lead to sub-therapeutic or toxic systemic concentrations. In addition, many of the medications used in the treatment of TB and most medicines in general, have a profoundly unpleasant taste to children causing them to reject and spit out medication which contributes to challenges with adherence, ultimately leading to treatment failure. The aforementioned demonstrates a huge need for the development of novel drug delivery formulations that are paediatric-friendly and address the limitations of current dosage forms. This review discusses the currently available oral paediatric formulations, recent developments of novel oral drug delivery systems studied to overcome the current problems associated with the treatment of tuberculosis in paediatrics and provides potential direction for future research through nanotechnology by using a SWOT analysis.
Comparison of biomedical science students’ perceptions of online versus paper-based examinations
Authors: Winters Elizabeth , Mitchell William G. , Jeremy Kris P. , Subhan Mirza Mohammad Feisal
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Online examinations are becoming increasingly incorporated into higher education. However, Biomedical Science students’ perspectives on exam format preferences remains unexplored. This study aims to investigate exam format preferences and attitudes of these students.

Methods

A self-reported survey of 31 questions on online exam perceptions was utilized and composed of six dimensions: affective factors, validity, practicality, reliability, security, and pedagogy. Scores measured student attitudes around online exams. Additionally, categorical questions examined attitudes around open-book online exams (OBOEs), closed-book online exams (CBOEs), and paper-based exams (PBEs). Qualitative analysis was conducted via the use of open-ended questions and a focus group on five participants. The questionnaire was distributed to undergraduates and 146 students responded across six different programmes.

Results

The findings revealed that 57.5% of students preferred OBOEs while only 19.9% preferred PBEs. OBOEs were perceived as more favorable in all six dimensions and superior in terms of reducing stress, ensuring fairness, allowing demonstration of understanding, and retaining information. Gender had no statistically significant influence on perception. However, programme statistically significantly affected responses. Qualitative data supported the main statistical analysis and identified a trade-off between the ability to retain information with PBEs, despite the stress and better demonstration of understanding with OBOEs.

Discussion

Overall, OBOEs were viewed positively and were well accepted; they are anticipated to be a dominant examination format at the UoP. Institutions wishing to implement online exams should consider the perceived benefits they have over traditional exams. These findings contribute to the understanding of students’ perceptions of exam formats, which can inform their design and application in higher education. Further research should explore the perceptions of other disciplines and identify ways to address any challenges associated with online exams.
Pathogenesis and comprehensive treatment strategies of sarcopenia in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Hou Yang , Xiang Jia , Wang Bo , Duan Shoufeng , Song Rouxuan , Zhou Wenhu , Tan Songwen , He Binsheng
Published: January 2024

Sarcopenia and diabetes are two age-related diseases that are common in the elderly population, and have a serious effect on their general health and quality of life. Sarcopenia refers to the progressive loss of muscle mass, strength and function, whereas diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by elevated blood sugar levels. The comorbidity of sarcopenia and diabetes is particularly concerning, as people with diabetes have a higher risk of developing sarcopenia due to the combination of insulin resistance, chronic inflammation and reduced physical activity. In contrast, sarcopenia destroyed blood sugar control and exacerbated the development of people with diabetes, leading to the occurrence of a variety of complications. Fortunately, there are a number of effective treatment strategies for sarcopenia in people with diabetes. Physical exercise and a balanced diet with enough protein and nutrients have been proved to enhance the muscular quality and strength of this population. Additionally, pharmacological therapies and lifestyle changes can optimize blood sugar control, which can prevent further muscle loss and improve overall health outcomes. This review aims to summarize the pathogenesis and comprehensive treatment strategies of sarcopenia in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes, which help healthcare professionals recognize their intimate connection and provide a new vision for the treatment of diabetes and its complications in this population. Through early identification and comprehensive treatment, it is possible to improve the muscle function and general quality of life of elderly with diabetes and sarcopenia.
Approach to management of hypo and hyperthyroidism in Bangladesh: a nationwide physicians’ perspective survey
Authors: Selim Shahjada , Mustari Marufa , Khan Tawshique Ahmed , Kamrul-Hasan ABM
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Thyroid disorders are common clinical conditions globally. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the physicians’ approach to the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid disorders in Bangladesh.

Methods

The present nationally representative cross-sectional study was conducted among 662 physicians of different levels (general practitioners as well as specialists) from different hospitals in Bangladesh from January to June 2023. A self-administered semi-structured questionnaire including information about demographics and practice patterns for the diagnosis and management of thyroid disorders was used for data collection. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data.

Results

The American Thyroid Association (ATA) guidelines were the most commonly followed guidelines for the diagnosis and management of thyroid disorders (60%), followed by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) guidelines (18%) and the European Thyroid Association (ETA) guidelines (9%). Serum TSH, free T3 and free T4 levels were the most frequently used diagnostic tests for the evaluation and follow-ups of both hypothyroid and hyperthyroid states in adults, pregnant women and children, followed by total T3 and total T4 levels. Other tests, such as anti-TPO antibody, anti-TG antibody, anti-TPO, ultrasound scan of the thyroid gland, etc., were rarely used by the participating physicians. Levothyroxine at a dose of 25 to 50 mcg and carbimazole at a dose of 30 to 45 mg were the most frequently used drugs for hypothyroid and hyperthyroid patients, respectively. Almost 65% of the physicians suggested routine thyroid function tests before surgery. In addition, more than 90% of the physicians agreed that thyroid screening for pregnancy, neonates, school children and adults would be mandatory.

Conclusion

The majority of the physicians participating in our study followed relevant guidelines for the diagnosis and management of thyroid disorders in Bangladesh. However, there are still some gaps to be improved, as a good number of physicians did not follow specific guidelines for these disorders.
Levothyroxine personalized treatment: is it still a dream?
Authors: Cappelli Carlo , Gatta Elisa , Ippolito Salvatore
Published: January 2024

Levothyroxine is a milestone in the treatment of all causes of hypothyroidism. From 19th century till today, Levothyroxine experienced a great advancement, from hypodermic injections of an extract of the thyroid gland of a sheep to novel formulations, known to circumvent malabsorption issue. However, the rate of patients on suboptimal therapy is still high. Current Guidelines are clear, daily Levothyroxine dosage should be calculated based on body weight. However, we are still far away from the possibility to administer the right dosage to the right patient, for several reasons. We retrace the history of treatment with levothyroxine, pointing out strengths and weaknesses of different formulations, with particular attention to what keeps us away from tailored therapy. In the age of digitalization, the pharmaceutical industry has been giving rising importance to Digital therapeutics, that are known to be effective in reaching target therapies. By combining current knowledge of hypothyroidism therapy with cutting-edge technology, we also hypothesized what could be the future strategies to be developed in this field.
Assessing the effect of income inequality on household energy poverty—empirical evidence from China
Authors: Wang Dong , Fang Tingwei , Wang Xiaofan
Published: January 2024

Eliminating energy poverty is not only a prerequisite for escaping the “energy poverty trap” but also crucial to enhancing the welfare of residents and realising ecological civilization. Income inequality has become an essential challenge affecting China’s economic growth and social stability. By integrating Chinese household data for 2016, 2018, and 2020, a mixed-method approach of energy income response modeling, income inequality measurement modeling, and fixed panel modeling is used in this paper to explore the relationship between income inequality and household energy poverty. Further, the mechanism of income inequality on energy poverty and the poverty reduction effect of household income on energy poverty are explored. The results show that income inequality is significantly and positively correlated with household energy poverty, implying that widening income inequality leads to energy “poverty enhancement.” In terms of mechanisms, income inequality increases energy poverty by increasing households’ willingness to save and reducing energy consumption. The moderating effect analysis shows that the breadth of digital financial inclusion reduces the contribution of income inequality to household energy poverty. The increase in household income will increase the affordability of households, especially the increase in wage income and property income, which can help households lift themselves out of “energy poverty.” Therefore, creating sustainable digital ecosystems, incorporating sound government interventions, and providing diversified income channels are key to helping households escape energy poverty.
A multi-objective dispatching model for a novel virtual power plant considering combined heat and power units, carbon recycling utilization, and flexible load response
Authors: Yang Hailin , Tian Xu , Liu Fei , Liu Liantao , Li Lixin , Wang Qian
Published: January 2024

To optimize the energy supply potential and complementary advantages of distributed energy, this paper focuses on the dispatching optimization of cogeneration virtual power plant considering uncertainty. First of all, wind power, photovoltaic, combined heat and power (CHP) units, electric boilers, and controllable loads are integrated into a CHP virtual power plant. Then, carbon capture and electric-to-gas devices are introduced to realize carbon recycling. Furthermore, quantify the risk of real-time dispatching of virtual power plants through uncertainty scenario generation and conditional value at risk (CVaR) theory, and the multi-objective stochastic dispatching optimization model of virtual power plants is built with the aim at minimizing the operation cost, carbon emissions, and operation risk as the objectives, and the CRITIC weighting method is adopted to solve it. Finally, the calculation results show that: 1) the electric boiler can use wind and photovoltaic power to supply heat for the system, reduce the dependence of the virtual power plant (VPP) on the CHP unit, and make the electric output of the unit more flexible. 2) The risk quantification method proposed can fully measure the risk situation in real-time dispatching, arrange the wind and photovoltaic power generation plan and backup plan more reasonably, and enable the VPP to get more benefits while avoiding the risks in real-time dispatching.
Can Capsicum spp. genotypes resist simultaneous damage by both Phytophthora capsici and Bemisia tabaci? Can natural enemies of Bemisia complement plant resistance?
Authors: Corozo-Quiñónez Liliana , Chirinos Dorys T. , Saltos-Rezabala Luis , Monteros-Altamirano Alvaro
Published: January 2024

Capsicum (Solanaceae) includes peppers and chilies. Phytophthora capsici (Peronosporaceae) and Bemisia tabaci (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) are two relevant problems in the production of this genus. Among the sustainable alternatives for disease and pest control, plant resistance and biological control stand out. The main objective of this research was to evaluate the resistance of Capsicum genotypes to damage by P. capsici and infestation by B. tabaci, as well as to diagnose whether the action of predators and parasitoids against B. tabaci could complement the resistance of the plants. The progression of disease caused by P. capsici and infestation by B. tabaci was estimated in 23 Capsicum genotypes, corresponding to the species: Capsicum annuum, Capsicum baccatum, Capsicum chinense, Capsicum frutescens and Capsicum. pubescens, from the GenBank of the National Institute of Agricultural Research (INIAP-Ecuador). Three genotypes: ECU-11993 (C. baccatum), ECU-11991 and ECU-2244 (C. pubescens) showed high susceptibility to both P. capsici damage and B. tabaci infestation. C. baccatum, C. chinense and C. frutescens genotypes showed the highest resistance to both pests, suggesting multiple resistance. Six taxa of predators and parasitoids reduced B. tabaci populations that developed in the most infested genotypes. Plant resistance is a control alternative that could allow the use of biological control, making it environmentally friendly. These results provide the basis for breeding programs in Capsicum.