bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Technetium-99m Methoxyisobutylisonitrile Imaging in the Follow-up of Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Sriprapaporn J , Toopmongkol C , Satayaban B , Chantamoon N
Published: February 2025

Objective: To evaluate the potential of technetium-99m methoxyisobutylisonitrile (Tc-99m MIBI) imaging as an alternative to I-131 total-body scan (I-131 TBS) for the follow-up of patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC).

Patients and Methods: We performed 87 Tc-99m MIBI imaging studies in 76 DTC patients who had total or near-total thyroidectomy followed by a radioactive iodine ablation while receiving thyroxine therapy. The final diagnosis was correlated with I-131 TBS, serum thyroglobulin (Tg), other conventional imaging modalities, clinical outcome, and/or pathological report.

Results: Seventy-six recurrent tumours or metastatic conditions in 58 DTC patients were detected. The overall findings of Tc-99m MIBI showed 72% sensitivity, 100% specificity and 77% accuracy. The figures for I-131 scan were 57%, 100% and 66%, respectively. When classifying upon tumour locations, Tc-99m MIBI imaging had sensitivity of 79% for cervical, 50% for mediastinal, 65% for skeletal and 69% for pulmonary metastases and the corresponding values for I-131 TBS were 33%, 67%, 94% and 75%, respectively. Furthermore, Tc-99m MIBI could detect only 44% of thyroid remnants demonstrated by radioiodine scan.

Conclusions: Tc-99m MIBI imaging is more sensitive than I-131 TBS in detecting tumours in the neck but less sensitive for metastasis elsewhere, as well as thyroid remnants. Therefore, Tc-99m MIBI imaging should not substitute but rather complement I-131 TBS for evaluation of DTC patients post-radioiodine ablation.
Two-year Outcome of Normal-birth-weight Infants Admitted to a Singapore Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Lian W B , Yeo C L , Ho L Y
Published: February 2025

Introduction: To describe the characteristics, the immediate and short-term outcome and predictors of mortality in normal-birth-weight (NBW) infants admitted to a tertiary neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) in Singapore.

Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 137 consecutive NBW infants admitted to the NICU of the Singapore General Hospital from January 1991 to December 1992. Data on the diagnoses, clinical presentation of illness, intervention received, complications and outcome as well as follow-up patterns for the first 2 years of life, were collected and analysed.

Results: NBW NICU infants comprised 1.8% of births in our hospital and 40.8% of all NICU admissions. The main reasons for NICU admissions were respiratory disorders (61.3%), congenital anomalies (15.3%) and asphyxia neonatorum (11.7%). Respiratory support was necessary in 81.8%. Among those ventilated, the only predictive factor contributing to mortality was the mean inspired oxygen concentration. The mortality rate was 11.7%. Causes of death included congenital anomalies (43.75%), asphyxia neonatorum (31.25%) and pulmonary failure secondary to meconium aspiration syndrome (12.5%). The median hospital stay among survivors (88.3%) was 11.0 (range, 4 to 70) days. Of 42 patients (out of 117 survivors) who received follow-up for at least 6 months, 39 infants did not have evidence of any major neurodevelopmental abnormalities at their last follow-up visit, prior to or at 2 years of age.

Conclusions: Despite their short hospital stay (compared to very-low-birth-weight infants), the high volume of NBW admissions make the care of this population an important area for review to enhance advances in and hence, reduce the cost of NICU care. With improved antenatal diagnostic techniques (allowing earlier and more accurate diagnosis of congenital malformations) and better antenatal and perinatal care (allowing better management of at-risk pregnancies), it is anticipated that there should be a reduction in such admissions with better outcomes. Close follow-up of this high-risk group of infants is also important in order to offer early intervention to those who may possibly have perinatally-related developmental difficulties.
Current Status in the Surgical Management of Adult Polycystic Liver Disease
Authors: Tan Y M , Ooi L L P J , Mack P O P
Published: February 2025

Introduction: In patients with adult polycystic liver disease (APLD), there is considerable debate surrounding the most effective way of managing symptomatic cysts. Conservative approaches like percutaneous aspiration or cyst fenestration are associated with low morbidity but high recurrence rates. Conversely, liver resection and hepatectomy with orthotopic liver transplantation is drastic and associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Our aim is to review the current understanding of liver cystogenesis in these patients and the therapeutic options available in order to provide a rationale guide to management of this intriguing condition.

Methods: This article summarises the findings of published papers in major international journals indexed on MEDLINE on APLD using the key words – adult polycystic liver disease, liver cysts, fenestration, liver resection, liver transplantation and polycystic kidney disease. The period of search includes papers between 1965 and 2000.

Results: Published studies have suggested a ‘two-hit’ hypothesis to explain the development of liver cysts in patients with APLD. This will provide the rationale for future management. Meanwhile, the indications, pitfalls and results of the various therapeutic options are reviewed. Management of symptoms has to be tailored to the underlying severity of the liver cystic disease, co-morbidity and procedural risks and recurrence rates.

Conclusion: Good long-term relief of symptoms can be achieved with the correct procedure at acceptable morbidity and mortality rates. We have provided guidelines on the various options available to enable a structured approach to the management of APLD.
Visual Rehabilitation with New-Age Rigid Gas-Permeable Scleral Contact Lenses—A Case Series
Authors: Ooi A L G , Lim L , Tan D T H
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Primary ectatic corneal diseases usually require rigid gas-permeable (RGP) corneal contact lens wear for visual rehabilitation. As the disease progresses, it becomes increasingly difficult to fit these lenses. RGP scleral contact lenses now provide another treatment option before resorting to surgery.

Clinical Picture: Two patients with pellucid marginal degeneration and one with advanced keratoconus had failed treatment with conventional lenses.

Treatment: They were fitted with RGP scleral lenses.

Outcome: Good vision was obtained together with satisfactory fit and comfort.

Conclusion: RGP scleral lenses are a viable alternative to surgery in the visual rehabilitation of patients with advanced ectatic corneal disorders.
Clinical Update on Deep Vein Thrombosis in Singapore
Authors: Lee L H
Published: February 2025

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is thought to be a rare occurrence in Asian patients. The clinical features of VTE are elusive and the disease often unsuspected. Objective testing such as the duplex ultrasound scans and pulmonary imaging are necessary as clinical diagnosis alone is inaccurate. Fatality can occur in untreated patients not suspected of the disease as shown by our post-mortem studies. Indeed VTE is one of the leading causes of maternal mortality in Singapore. There is a rising trend in the incidence of VTE in Asia. Initial studies found an incidence of about 3 per 10,000 hospital admissions in Hong Kong and Malaysia in 1988 and 1990, respectively; rising to 8 and 15.8 per 10,000 hospital admissions in Singapore 1992 and 2000, respectively. The major risk factors for developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in our patients are immobilisation, surgery and malignancy. While Factor V Leiden mutation and mutation at position 20210 in the prothrombin gene are found to be extremely rare in Chinese, the rest of the thrombophilia has not been formally studied. Studies in Singapore reported rates of 3% to 7% of DVT after general surgery, 9.7% after hip surgery and 14% after total knee replacement surgery. It is difficult to compare with studies from other centres because of differences in patient selection and diagnostic criteria. Studies in Singapore showed that the use of prophylactic low molecular weight heparin completely abolished the occurrence of DVT for patients undergoing total knee replacement and colorectal surgery without an increase in bleeding complications. In conclusion, VTE is not an uncommon problem here. Major acquired risk factors do not differ from the Caucasian populations. VTE is a preventable disease and a better understanding of its epidemiology, patient-risk factors and biological factors will allow better management of this condition.
Business Intelligence Adoption in Diverse Economies: A Clustering Study of Five European Countries
Authors: Ghazaryan Armênia , Khachatryan Mare , Moghadam Soomela Moosa , Tarkhanyan Lili , Hovhannisyan Davit
Published: February 2025

Objective: This paper explores the factors that influences Business Intelligence (henceforth, BI) tool adoption and its impact on Armenian IT enterprises' performance.
 
Theoretical Framework: Grounded in organizational shift, technology adoption (e.g., TOE framework), and competitive advantage theories, the research employs SWOT analysis, K-Means clustering, Logistic Regression, and the Elbow method to examine competitive pressures and BI's performance impact.
 
Method: A mixed-methods approach was used, combining surveys of Armenian tech companies with logistic regression analysis to evaluate BI adoption's relation to performance indicators such as revenue growth, market share, and customer satisfaction. K-Means clustering compared Armenia's BI adoption levels to Lithuania, Romania, Estonia, and Denmark, based on digital infrastructure and regulatory environments.
 
Results and Discussion: Findings disclosed low BI adoption rates in Armenia in comparison to Estonia and Denmark. Logistic regression connected strategic planning with advanced efficiency and customer needs, while K-Means clustering grouped Armenia with Romania in lower adoption clusters. Obstacles such as the digital divide, skills gaps, and regulations were discussed.
 
Research Implications: The study highlights the need for Armenian policymakers to enhance digital infrastructure, foster data analysis expertise, and create favorable regulations. For businesses, it emphasizes investing in training, data governance, and aligning BI strategies with objectives.
 
Originality/Value: This research paper uniquely benchmarks BI adoption in Armenia against European peers, offering actionable insights for improving adoption in emerging economies and enriching BI literature
Driver Drowsiness Detection Using Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Charanya J  , Kavitha Vasu  , Shahidkhan S  , NaveenKumar K  , Naveen Ram C E  , Vasikaran S
Published: February 2025

Driver drowsiness significantly impacts road safety, leading to numerous accidents. We developed a Driver Drowsiness Detection system using deep learning for binary classification, utilizing CNN, VGG16, GoogleNet, AlexNet, MobileNet_v2, and ResNet101 architectures. Our models were trained on an annotated dataset of driver images and evaluated on metrics like accuracy and F1-score. Results show that while deeper networks offer high accuracy, lightweight models like MobileNet_v2 provide a good balance of performance and computational efficiency. This work demonstrates the potential of these models for real-time drowsiness detection in advanced driver- assistance systems (ADAS) to enhance road safety.
Morbimortalidad perioperatoria de las cirugías cardíacas en el Instituto Nacional Cardiovascular, Lima, Perú, durante el año 2023
Authors: Silva-Tejada Harod , Sisniegas-Razón Josué , Martínez-Ninanqui Franklin , Díaz-Chávez Zoé , Ríos-Ortega Josías C.
Published: February 2025

Objetivo. Determinar la mortalidad posoperatoria y las complicaciones posoperatorias de pacientes sometidos a cirugía cardiaca en el Servicio de Cirugía Cardiovascular del Instituto Nacional Cardiovascular, EsSalud, Lima, Perú en el año 2023. Materiales y métodos. Estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo, de las historias clínicas de los pacientes. Resultados. En el año 2023 se realizaron 538 cirugías cardiacas en nuestro centro, la mortalidad global fue del 5,6%; sin embargo, la mortalidad de cirugías electivas fue del 4,1%. La mortalidad de la cirugía coronaria aislada fue del 1,9% y de la cirugía valvular asilada fue de 0,7%. El Stroke se presentó en el 1,5% de pacientes, la reoperación por sangrado se realizó en el 8,1% de los casos. La cirugía más frecuentemente realizada fue la valvular (ya sea aislada o multivalvular) con el 40,1% de los casos, seguida de la coronaria con el 28,6%. La estancia hospitalaria de la cirugía coronaria tuvo una mediana de 9,9 días (8-12) y de la cirugía valvular aislada fue 12,8 días (10-14). Conclusiones. Los resultados posoperatorios de la cirugía cardíaca en el Instituto Nacional Cardiovascular son aceptables y comparables a los de otros centros internacionales de alto volumen de cirugías.
Grade 11 Stem Learners’ Learning Competencies and Their Motivation in General Chemistry
Authors: Poblete Threcia C. , Nabua Edna B. , Abdurahman Mudjahid M. , Navalta Jr. Eduardo R. , Micutuan Rey Paolo G.
Published: February 2025

This study examines the mastery level in the learning competencies and motivation level of Grade 11 STEM learners in General Chemistry which will serves as a basis for the development of a Strategic Intervention Material (SIM). This is to identify the un-mastered, the least mastered, and nearly mastered learning competencies in General Chemistry. The study anchored on cognitive theory and motivation theory that specifically aimed to examine learners’ motivation levels, and evaluate their mastery level in General Chemistry learning competencies. Using a descriptive-survey research design, the study was conducted in one of the public secondary school in Northern Mindanao Philippines during the 2024–2025 academic year. The instruments were validated by experts in content and methods. To assure reliability of the instruments, the reliability coefficient of the instruments were sought. Data collection involved administering validated achievement test and motivation questionnaires to a sample of Thirty Three (33) learners which was purposively sampled. These samples were assured of data privacy and that their participation was made in voluntary mode. Findings indicated moderate intrinsic and grade-related motivation but revealed challenges of connecting with real-world application of chemistry concepts, and mastering critical competencies. Achievement test results showed a low average performance, with most learners failing to meet the learning competencies required in the General Chemistry. Key areas of difficulty included stoichiometry, balancing chemical equations, and understanding chemical formulas and reactions. The study concludes that a significant gap exists between learners’ competency mastery and their motivation levels, emphasizing the need for targeted Strategic Intervention Material (SIM). It is recommended that educators adopt SIMs tailored to learner needs, align teaching methods with real-world applications, and provide additional support to strengthen foundational competencies.
Research on the Application of Baise Uprising Red Gene in Tea Packaging Design from the Perspective of User Experience
Authors: Liang Kang , Xuan Xiong
Published: February 2025

Taking user experience as the core, this study explores the application path of Baise Uprising red genes in the packaging design of Lingyun White Hair Tea, aiming at promoting brand promotion, realizing the in-depth fusion of red culture and local agricultural products, and providing innovative ideas for the revitalization of China’s countryside. Based on the theory of user experience, the study analyzes the way and process of applying user experience in packaging design from three levels of functionality, emotional value and cultural value, covering the extraction, transformation and transmission of Baise Uprising-related elements, which provides practical references for the dissemination of Baise Uprising’s red culture and the implementation of China’s countryside revitalization strategy.
Reverse Logistics and Product Remanufacturing: A Strategic Analysis
Authors: Olufemi Enigbokan Richard , Enigbokan Femi
Published: February 2025

Remanufacturing, a core component of reverse logistics, used products are restored to as-new condition. This research addresses the strategic implications of remanufacturing and examines its potential to improve sustainability, reduce costs and increase competitive advantage. The study analyses the experiences of industry leaders such as Caterpillar, Dell and Cisco and highlights their successful remanufacturing programs and best practices. These case studies provide valuable insight into the key factors that influence remanufacturing decisions, including product design, technology and market demand. The research identifies critical elements such as robust core collection, advanced inspection and sorting techniques and effective reprocessing processes as critical to success.

Based on this analysis, a comprehensive strategic framework is proposed to assist organizations in developing and implementing effective remanufacturing programs. This framework provides a roadmap that describes key phases in detail, such as: 1) Initial assessment and strategic alignment of remanufacturing goals with overall business objectives; 2) Product (new) design for optimized dismantling and renovation; 3) Develop a robust reverse logistics network for efficient core procurement and product returns; 4) Investing in appropriate remanufacturing technologies and workforce skills; and 5) targeted marketing and customer education to promote adoption of remanufactured products. By adopting this structured approach, companies can systematically integrate remanufacturing into their operations. The results highlight the importance of strategic planning, efficient reverse logistics and technological innovation in realizing the full potential of remanufacturing. By implementing these strategies, companies can contribute to a more sustainable future while improving their bottom line and gaining a competitive advantage.
Financial Intelligence Units and Regulatory Technology to Combat Crypto Laundering
Authors: Murad Mehedi Hassan , Uddin Imran , Trisha Sadia Maliha , Mallik Shuvo Kumar , Islam Md. Kabirul , Nova Noushin Akhter
Published: February 2025

Since digital payments increased in 2015, crypto laundering has become a significant threat. This study explores preventing crypto laundering through RegTech and FIU, using qualitative content analysis with NVivo 12. Legal documents from the Commodity Futures Trading Regulatory Agency (CFTR) served as secondary data sources. Crypto laundering mitigation includes KYC (Know Your Customer) and risk-based transaction monitoring. Customized RegTech solutions, like facial recognition technology, should complement blockchain analytics tools. The study found that government agencies issue suspicious transaction reports, while INTRAC, Indonesia’s financial institution unit, handles transaction monitoring and analysis using a “follow the money” methodology. This research contributes to forensic accounting knowledge and suggests policy-level actions for regulators, collaborating with technology specialists to combat crypto laundering.
Client Involvement in Agile Project Management, Impact on Operational Performance, and Successful Project Handover in Jordan
Authors: Aladayleh Khaled Jameel
Published: February 2025

The research aimed to provide a suitable model for the smooth completion of building projects in Jordan. The study's underlying model presupposes client participation may impact project management procedures and adopting agile practices. On the other hand, agility and project management processes impact operational performance and the effectiveness of project handovers. The researcher polled 170 people who have experience as building site supervisors. For data analysis, SPSS and AMOS.22 were used. The researcher employed structural equation modeling and confirmatory factor analysis. The findings demonstrated that incorporating client feedback into adopting agile practices, processes, and project management yielded favorable outcomes. Project management methods, operational performance, and agility adoption were found to mediate between client involvement and successful project handover. One of the most important recommendations and implications for management from the study was embracing agility. Another recommendation was that project management processes prioritize client involvement as a key to successful project handovers and high operational performance.
 
Received: 3 September 2024 | Revised: 5 November 2024 | Accepted: 23 January 2025
 
Conflicts of Interest 
The author declares that he has no conflicts of interest to this work.
 
Data Availability Statement
The data that support this work are available upon reasonable request to the corresponding author.
 
Author Contribution Statement
Khaled Jameel Aladayleh: Conceptualization, Methodology, Software, Validation, Formal analysis, Investigation, Resources, Data curation, Writing - original draft, Writing - review & editing, Visualization, Supervision, Project administration, Funding acquisition.
Architecture in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Leach Neil
Published: February 2025

Updated to cover the latest cutting-edge developments in the field and now in full color,Architecture in the Age of Artificial Intelligenceintroduces AI for designers and explores its seismic impact on the future of architecture and design.

From smart assistants and ChatGPT to ground-breaking diffusion models for image generation and 3D modelling – this fully-updated second edition examines all the latest new developments in the field, and examines their profound effects on architectural practice.

Highlighting current case-studies as well as near-future applications, it explores the how AI transforms every part of the process from the inspiration and the brief to detailed performance- and data-driven design. This new edition also sheds light on key ethical and professional debates – including regulations, copyright, and the very future of creativity and of the profession itself.

Written by one of the world’s leading experts in the field, this book is a must-read for all architects and designers wishing to stay at the forefront of AI developments in architecture.
Burden of Conscience
Authors: Henry Giroux
Published: February 2025

In The Burden of Conscience, Giroux confronts the insidious rise of fascism infiltratingtoday’s politics and education, alongside the suffocating silence that paralyzes our will toresist and speak truth to power.He decries the moral apathy in the face of the slaughter of children in Israel and the mass killing in Gaza, positioning this silence as part of a broader, ominous affliction of our age—the fusion of colonialism and neoliberal capitalism. He calls for a groundswell of resistance, urging a movement to reclaim education as a public good, where critical education becomes an expression of freedom, a crucible of literacy, liberation, and collective empowerment. Drawing on his own childhood, he intertwines the personal with the political, unearthing the complexities of class, whiteness, and race, showing that individual and collective actions must converge to dismantle oppressive systems. Finally, he argues that education is a powerful tool, giving us, in the words of Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak, ‘the power to think the absent.’ Only through this awakening can a critical public consciousness emerge, sparking a multiracial working-class movement capable of challenging entrenched systems of oppression and bringing about true social transformation and radical democracy.
Translingual Creative Writing Theory, Practice, and Pedagogy
Authors: Quist Jennifer
Published: February 2025

In a challenge to monolingual, Anglophone dominated creative writing workshops, this book explores why and how students’ multilingual backgrounds and lack of fluency with the English language can emerge as assets rather than impediments to artistry and creativity.Grounded in the Chinese tradition of Daoism as an ongoing discourse, this exploration uses rigorous academic readings of the philosophical text, theZhuangzi,as an analytical framework and takes a translingual approach to writing where translation and composition intersect, inscribing one language upon another within a single text. With concepts that resist expression such as inspiration, uncertainty, non-knowing, spontaneity, unity, forgetting the self, and the perfection behind the imperfection of language, Jennifer Quist demonstrates how Daoism’s theories and metalanguage can re-imagine creative writing education whilst de-naturalizing the authority of English and Euro-American literary traditions. With analytical lenses derived from East Asia given context through translations of Chinese educators’ primary accounts of the history and theory of postsecondary creative writing education in 21st-century China, Quist develops a method for examining the practices of exemplary translingual writers from China, Japan, and their diasporas.

Featuring translingual writing prompts and practices for individual or classroom use by students at all levels of multilingualism,Translingual Creative Writing Theory, Practice, and Pedagogyopens up the current workshop model and discloses the possibilities of linguistic transcendence for instructors and students. With writing strategies based in cross-cultural collaboration and balanced with de-Anglicization of creative writing pedagogy, this book calls to rework the structures, methods, and metaphors of the workshop and presents ideas for more collaborative, collective, equitable, diverse, and inclusive programs.
AH-1 Cobra Gunship vs NVA Armor
Authors: Davies Peter E.
Published: February 2025

A new study of how the first purpose-built anti-tank helicopter gunship – the Bell AH-1 Cobra – engaged communist armor and well-armed irregular fighters in the war for control of Vietnam.

The Vietnam War was often dubbed ‘the helicopter war’ because it was the first conflict in which helicopters took a dominant role. As the only dedicated gunship to be fielded by US forces during the conflict, the AH-1 Cobra saw combat against North Vietnamese Army (NVA) tanks, armored personnel carriers (APCs), and heavy anti-aircraft weaponry while joining OH-6A "Loach" scout helicopters on "Pink Team" hunter-killer flights. There were more than 700 Cobras operational in Vietnam by 1972, and it proved such an effective weapon that the NVA often avoided shooting at it, fearing massive and instant retribution.

In this action-packed new study, Vietnam War expert Peter E. Davies examines the development and deployment of the Cobra, its engagements with Soviet- and Chinese-supplied tanks and heavy machine guns, and how it was adapted to counter devastating surface-to-air missile attacks in 1972. Numerous key clashes – including the Tet Offensive and actions at Loc Ninh and An Loc – are explored in detail, with first-hand accounts, newly commissioned artwork, and more than 50 photographs bringing the operations of this iconic helicopter to life.
Bagration 1944
Authors: Buttar Prit
Published: February 2025

A fascinating history of the great summer offensive launched by the Red Army in 1944 which turned the tide of the war.

Throughout the war on the Eastern Front, there were two consistent trends. The Red Army battled to learn how to fight and win, while involved in a struggle for its very survival. But by 1944 it had a leadership that was able to wield it with lethal effect and with far more effective equipment than before. By contrast, the Wehrmacht had commenced a slow process of decline after the invasion of the Soviet Union. Hitler became increasingly unwilling to delegate decision-making to commanders in the field, which had been crucial to earlier success. The long years of fighting had also taken a heavy toll. Thousands of irreplaceable junior officers and NCOs were dead, wounded or prisoners.

Renowned Eastern Front expert Prit Buttar expertly brings these contrasting fortunes to life, trends which culminated in the huge battles ofBagration. As this masterful study conclusively shows, in 1944 the Red Army finally put together a campaign that utterly destroyed the German Army Group Centre. The Wehrmacht suffered the loss of over 300,000 men killed, wounded or taken prisoner and the Red Army rolled forward across Belarus to the outskirts of Warsaw. The end of the war was still many months away, and the Germans managed to reconstruct their line on the Eastern Front, but final victory for the Soviet Union was now only a matter of time as a direct consequence ofBagration.
Do the Right Thing
Authors: Guerrero Ed
Published: February 2025

Spike Lee's Do the Right Thing (1989) is one of the most popular and celebrated examples of the African-American new black film wave. Set during the hottest day of a hot summer in New York City, the film's ensemble cast, including Lee himself, brilliantly play out the edgy negotiations and dramas of a racially and culturally diverse working-class Brooklyn neighbourhood. Contrary to Hollywood's markedly cautious treatment of 'race' and its confinement to the South and the past, Do the Right Thing offers a nuanced portrayal of black urban life. From hip-hop fashions, Afrocentric colours and rap music, to police brutality, gentrification, non-white immigration, de-industrialization and joblessness, Do the Right Thing depicts it all, from a contemporary, African-American point of view. In his insightful study of the film, Ed Guerrero discusses how it epitomizes Spike Lee's powerful impact on the representation of race and difference in America, the progress of black film-making and the rise of multicultural voices in the media. This new edition includes a foreword by the author reflecting on Lee's subsequent film-making career and on an America in which African Americans still contend with racial discrimination and police brutality.

Guerrero emphasizes Lee's especially timely understanding of black film-making as a complex act, mixing the skills of art, politics, and business in order to fashion a creative practice that confronts institutional discrimination and power relations head on.
Gender Identity and Expression
Authors: Kinney M. Killian
Published: February 2025

This book answers young readers' questions about gender – what it is, what it isn't, and how it impacts our experiences and our interactions with others.

Gender is an essential part of all our lives, whether we recognize it as such or not and regardless of how we identify and express that identity. Gender informs how we feel about ourselves, the clothes we wear, how we engage with others, and much more. This volume’s 48 questions cover concepts such as gender roles and norms, the binary gender system and cisnormativity, gendered language, and gender discrimination and bias. Readers will also discover practical guidance on topics such as confronting gender-based bullying and advocating for the rights of gender diverse individuals.

Augmenting the main text, a collection of 5 case studies illustrate key concepts and issues through relatable stories and insightful recommendations. The Common Misconceptions section at the beginning of the volume dispels 5 long-standing and potentially dangerous myths about gender identity and expression, directing readers to additional information in the text. The glossary defines terms that may be unfamiliar to readers, while the directory of resources curates a list of the most useful books, websites, and other materials. Finally, whether they’re looking for more information about this subject or any other health-related topic, readers can turn to the Guide to Health Literacy section for practical tools and strategies for finding, evaluating, and using credible sources of health information both on and off the Internet.
Media Bias
Authors: Arndt Thomas
Published: February 2025

This resource uses evidence-based documentation to examine the veracity of claims and beliefs about the state, nature, and extent of media bias in American news media, including social media, television, radio, newspapers, magazines, and other media outlets.

The book provides students and other readers with a clear and accurate understanding of claims of media bias (both conservative and liberal) in the United States by refuting falsehoods, misunderstandings, and exaggerations surrounding this topic – and confirming the validity of other assertions. In addition, this sourcebook examines claims and assertions about media bias in other realms of American life, from popular entertainment to social media platforms.

Media Bias: Examining the Factshas been specifically crafted to give readers the tools for a fuller and more accurate understanding of the facts surrounding controversial issues, policies, and laws that occupy center stage in American life and politics. Specific areas of focus in this volume include defining and understanding conscious and unconscious bias; the evolution of the news industry and partisan news sources in the digital age; the ways in which political polarization exacerbates media bias, laws and practices that govern the operations of news media; and clear examples of conservative and liberal bias in such media sectors as cable and broadcast news, radio, newspapers and magazines, talk radio, and online platforms.
Gun Politics in America [Volume 2]
Authors: Wilson Harry L.
Published: February 2025

This two-volume collection brings together 129 essential primary sources for understanding the history and evolution of gun rights and gun control in the USA from the colonial era to the present.

Every featured document is accompanied by explanatory materials that help readers understand the social and political context in which they appeared. Utilizing a blend of important political speeches, Supreme Court opinions, agency reports, and congressional testimony, this set provides readers with a front-row seat to observe the complex and often-surprising evolution of gun ownership, gun culture, and gun politics in the USA. This fascinating history is examined through primary source documents covering centuries of American history, from colonial laws regulating firearms, through the era of Prohibition and the rise of organized crime, to congressional hearings on gun control in the wake of the 2022 mass shooting in Uvalde, Texas.

The set includes 19 new primary sources that shine a spotlight on notable events in the debate over guns since the first edition was published in 2016, including important developments during the Trump presidency, the pandemic, and the opening years of the Biden administration.
„Die Branche braucht konkrete technische Lösungen“
Authors: Maurer Bettina
Published: February 2025

Die Coating- und Converting-Branche befindet sich im Umbruch, sagt Patrick Herman, Messedirektor für Converting, Papier und Druck bei der britischen Veranstaltungsgesellschaft RX, die die ICE Europe ausrichtet. Wie stellt sich die Messe darauf ein?
O método de conhecimento de Paulo Freire e a intervenção comunitária em Portugal
Authors: Polli José Renato , Fraga Nuno
Published: February 2025

Este artigo tem como finalidade apresentar e discutir as bases epistemológicas constituintes do método de conhecimento de Paulo Freire e sua incidência prática em políticas de educação de adultos e formas de intervenção comunitárias em Portugal. Decorrentes da aplicação deste método, estas políticas organizadas após a revolução de 25 de abril de 1974 e as intervenções comunitárias coordenadas no âmbito do programa de pós-graduação em educação da Universidade de Madeira, são exemplos práticos de que o método e os princípios educacionais de Paulo Freire têm sido profícuos na constituição de meios de transformação da realidade social. Trata-se de uma tentativa de contribuir para com a análise desmistificadora da suposta falta de praticidade do método de conhecimento de Paulo Freire e da inexistência de experiências exitosas a partir dos seus pressupostos filosófico-pedagógicos.
FORMULASI SEDIAAN KRIM EKSTRAK ETANOL DAUN KOPI ARABIKA (Coffea arabica L.) SEBAGAI ANTI-AGING
Authors: Priltius Natanael , Situmorang Manahan , Rumela Nuranti , Tasya Indah
Published: February 2025

Latar belakang: Penuaan kulit adalah proses biologis yang dipengaruhi oleh berbagai faktor, termasuk sinar ultraviolet (UV), yang dapat merusak kulit. Kulit memerlukan antioksidan untuk melindungi dari kerusakan akibat radikal bebas. Penggunaan kosmetik berbahan kimia sering menimbulkan efek samping, sehingga diperlukan alternatif berbahan herbal dengan sifat antioksidan. Daun kopi arabika mengandung senyawa fenol dan flavonoid yang berfungsi sebagai antioksidan dan memiliki potensi aktivitas anti-aging. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memformulasikan krim dari ekstrak etanol daun kopi arabika dalam beberapa konsentrasi dan mengevaluasi efektivitasnya terhadap kondisi kulit. Dengan demikian, penelitian ini berfokus pada potensi ekstrak daun kopi arabika sebagai bahan aktif dalam krim anti-aging yang aman dan efektif.
Tujuan: Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengembangkan sediaan krim ekstrak etanol daun kopi arabika dengan konsentrasi berbeda (3%, 5%, dan 7%), dan menilai efektivitas krim sebagai agen anti-aging melalui pengukuran kadar air kulit, ukuran pori, dan keriput
Hasil: Sediaan krim yang dihasilkan homogen dan stabil, dengan pH 4,6-6,0. ⁠Krim dengan konsentrasi 7% menunjukkan peningkatan kadar air kulit (10%), pengecilan pori (11,41%), dan pengurangan keriput (18,94%) setelah 4 minggu perawatan
Kesimpulan: Ekstrak etanol daun kopi arabika dapat diformulasikan menjadi krim anti-aging yang efektif.   Krim dengan konsentrasi 7% memberikan efek anti-aging terbaik dibandingkan dengan konsentrasi lainnya, meningkatkan kondisi kulit secara signifikan.
Pembrolizumab (Keytruda)
Authors: CDA-AMC
Published: February 2025

Canada’s Drug Agency (CDA-AMC) recommends that Keytruda be reimbursed by public drug plans for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients with unresectable or metastatic microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) or mismatch repair deficient (dMMR) solid tumours, as determined by a validated test, that have progressed following prior treatment and who have no satisfactory alternative treatment options, if certain conditions are met.
Keytruda should only be covered to treat patients aged 6 months and older who have solid tumours with MSI-H and/or dMMR mutations that cannot be removed by surgery, or whose tumours have spread to other parts of the body; who have not responded to previous therapy and have no other treatment options available; and who are in relatively good health.
Keytruda should only be reimbursed if it is prescribed by clinicians with expertise in treating advanced cancer and the cost of Keytruda is reduced. It should not be given in combination with other anticancer drugs, as well as in patients who have a history of treatment with an anti–PD-1, anti–PD-L1, or anti–PD-L2 drug.
The Atmospheric Sounder Spectrometer by Infrared Spectral Technology (ASSIST): Instrument design and signal processing
Authors: Michaud-Belleau Vincent , Gaudreau Michel , Lacoursière Jean , Boisvert Éric , Ravelomanantsoa Lalaina , Turner David D. , Rochette Luc
Published: February 2025

Abstract. The Atmospheric Sounder Spectrometer by Infrared Spectral Technology (ASSIST) is a Fourier-transform spectrometer designed, fabricated, and sold by LR Tech Inc., which operates in the thermal infrared. When attached to its automated radiometric calibration module, it functions as an infrared spectroradiometer (IRS) that passively measures the absolute spectral radiance within a 46 mrad full field of view and over the 525 to 3300 cm-1 (3 to 19 μm) spectral range. For atmospheric studies, the ASSIST IRS is integrated into a mobile enclosure enabling autonomous, ground-based operation under harsh conditions. It is typically configured for downwelling radiance measurements (zenith view) at 0.5 cm-1 bin spacing, 0.6 cm-1 resolution, and 4 min-1 sampling rate, closely replicating the behavior of the Atmospheric Emitted Radiance Interferometer (AERI, in rapid-sampling mode), a similar but older IRS. Atmospheric variables affecting the shape of the downwelling thermal infrared radiance spectrum at ground level can be retrieved from the ASSIST's high-resolution measurements using dedicated inversion algorithms. This includes the properties of some aerosols and simple clouds, the mixing ratios of trace gases, and the vertical distribution of temperature and water vapor (thermodynamic profile) in the lower troposphere above the instrument. Due to the form of the radiative transfer equation, thermodynamic profiles can only be retrieved with low to moderate vertical resolution, but with sufficient accuracy and temporal resolution to help fill the current boundary layer observational gap. This paper provides a detailed description of the ASSIST's design and near real-time processing algorithm producing the calibrated radiance spectra that are useful in a variety of applications.
Design and Construction of Water Turturity Monitoring Equipment And Automatic Water Pump
Authors: Tri Krisna Rivaldo , Fitriani Endah , Paramitha Nina , Ariyandi Tamsir
Published: February 2025

The ever-increasing need for clean water requires innovation in water quality management and monitoring. This research aims to design and develop a water turbidity monitoring tool and an automatic water pump based on the Internet of Things (IoT) using the ESP32 microcontroller. The main objectives of this research include implementing ESP32 as the main controller, developing a system that can detect and monitor water turbidity levels in real-time using a turbidity sensor. The research results show that the designed tool is able to work well, with a measurement error rate of less than 5%, which shows high accuracy. The turbidity sensor and ultrasonic sensor work optimally, able to determine whether the water is clear or cloudy, and control the water pump automatically. The water pump will stop if the water level exceeds 32 cm or the water turbidity value exceeds 20 NTU. This system successfully meets the initial research objectives, offering an efficient and reliable solution for water quality management.
Digital Health Solutions for Improving Ambulatory Care Utilisation
Authors:   , Selim Shayma
Published: February 2025

This thesis critically explored digital health solutions currently used for non-attendance, identified and costed processes associated with responding to non-attendance, and explored preferred solutions for mitigating non-attendance at scheduled outpatient healthcare appointments. The findings from this body of work have implications for healthcare providers operating within constrained healthcare systems who might not have the resource capacity to adopt the entire spectrum of viable solutions into their practice. The selection of specific solutions by healthcare providers has implications for the experience of healthcare users (e.g., patients) accessing ambulatory care services.
Thematic Structuring of the General Mathematics Curriculum at the Secondary Level Utilizing Grounded Theory
Authors: Tousif Madiha , Bahoo Rabia , Akram Muzammila
Published: February 2025

The objectives of the current study were to examine the shortcomings of the existing secondary-level General Mathematics curriculum, identify contemporary trends in the subject, and suggest a thematic division for the sector-wise organization of the curriculum. Grounded Theory was used as the research design for this study. The study used  Creswell’s systematic approach, utilizing structured data analysis processes like open coding, axial coding, and selective coding, and creating a sectorial division. According to Creswell, this investigation was divided into three stages. At the first stage, prominent teachers of General Mathematics participated in semi-structured interviews using an interview protocol as a research instrument. At the second stage, the potential causes of the curriculum's shortcomings were determined. At the third stage, contemporary trends in mathematics were discovered through the use of document analysis to examine the mathematics curricula of developed nations. Ultimately, the data gathered during the three processes described above was used to create a thematic division. Purposive sampling was used to gather data from a sample of 22 teachers. Conclusion of stage I showed that curriculum of General Mathematics  has imperfectness that prevent it from meeting the cognitive and creative requirements. Conclusion of stage II explained the causes of these deficiencies. Conclusion of stage III confirmed that in order to prepare students for the modern world, contemporary tendencies should be inferred. Consequently, a supposed outline of curriculum of Mathematics was designed.
The impact of light pollution on the environment and human society
Authors: Bardan Veaceslav
Published: February 2025

The environment is polluted by several major groups of pollutants: mechanical, physical, biological and chemical, all of which have serious repercussions on the environment, but in addition to these there is another form of pollution with physical effects no less harmful, such as light pollution. The article analyses the mode of pollution and its spatial manifestation, as well as its biological and social consequences. The paper describes the triggers of light pollution, its mode of action and, finally, comes up with a number of proposals for reducing the impact of light pollution.
Regulations on sustainability in the packaging sector
Authors: Cazac Viorica , Vasiliev Nicoleta , Adascalita Lucia
Published: February 2025

The paper presents the results of the analysis of regulations regarding sustainability in packaging, a targeted reference field with a significant impact on the environment. Packaging is an indispensable element of everyday life. At a global level, a series of measures are being taken that define packaging sustainability strategies. In the conditions of developing new packaging strategies in sustainability policies, packaging manufacturers insist on extensive, multi-criteria analysis of packaging, life cycle assessment, measurement of the footprint of packaging on the environment, and the total impact on the environment. Knowing all the arguments, the regulations will allow the development of new concepts of compliant packaging at the level of sustainable design, of the materials used, and of the constructive, technological, and manufacturing organization solutions. The main strategic directions targeted were optimizing the design to reduce the waste of materials and space, using recyclable materials to reduce the impact on the environment, re-introducing them into the production circuit, reducing the amount of waste generated, and orienting towards bioplastics and biodegradable materials.
Directions of action for attenuating Romania's foreign deficit
Authors: Milea Camelia
Published: February 2025

Romania has faced, continuously, an external deficit after 1990, generally, of high level, according to international standards. In the article, the author intends to highlight some directions of action that will lead to the reduction of the foreign deficit in Romania starting from its causes. These include, especially, structural problems that have not yet been solved, such as poorly developed transport infrastructure; lack of availability of labor force properly qualified; domestic demand not met by national supply; export of low and medium proccessed products at low external prices; high share of energy-consuming sectors and low energy efficiency, but also the evolution of the budget deficit. The methodology used joins the identification of causalities with descriptive analysis, empirical analysis and data interpretation.