bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Placental Lead and its Interaction with Some Essential Metals among Women from Lucknow, India
Authors: Jyoti Singh  , Vipul K Singh  , M Anand  , P Kumar  , MKJ Siddiqui
Published: January 2025

Objective: The placenta connects and separates two genetically distinct individuals: the mother and the fetus. There is no placental-fetal barrier blocking lead transport, placing the fetus at high risk from lead exposure. The placenta has been investigated as a possible indicator of environmental exposures. Recent studies have been focused on the interaction between toxic and essential metals in placenta as there is little information on the levels of lead and essential metals in human placental tissue in Indian scenario. Material & Methods: The present study was designed to determine the status of lead and some essential metals in placental tissue of women residing in and around, Lucknow, India. Sixty pregnant women attending the local maternity home in the city were recruited to determine the concentrations of lead (toxic metal) and zinc, copper, iron & calcium (essential metals) using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Results: The mean±SD levels of placental lead was 0.35 ± 0.30μg/g which is lower than those reported in Australia (0.56μg/g) & Poland (0.50μg/g), and slightly higher than Spain (0.11μg/g). The mean ± SD (range) of placental zinc, copper, iron & calcium was found to be 7.67± 2.99 μg/g (0.47-13.75), 1.03 ± 0.55 μg/g (0.49-3.41), 76.42 ± 20.13 μg/g (17.67-135.25), 90.46 ± 112.47 μg/g (1.77-420.5) respectively. On the basis of parity, placental lead level was significantly higher (p<0.05), while copper and zinc were significantly lower (p<0.05, p<0.01 respectively) in multipa-rous cases as compared to nulliparous. Placental lead levels had significant negative correlation with zinc levels (r= -0.35, p<0.05). Conclusion: The results suggested that increased lead level affect the essential metal level and its level increased with parity whereas, there was a depletion of maternal stores of essential elements (Zn, Cu, Fe and Ca) with increasing parity. Key Words: Placenta; Lead; Essential metals; parity; Atomic Absorption Spectrometer DOI: 10.3126/ajms.v1i2.3199Asian Journal of Medical Sciences 1 (2010) 32-36
Hematologic Toxicity of Antiretroviral Drug, Zidolam (zidovudine and lamivudine) in Adult Wistar Rats
Authors: OA Osonuga  , OI Osonuga  , AA Osonuga  , A Osonuga
Published: January 2025

Objective: Zidolam is an highly active antiretroviral combination therapy (HAART) for the treatment of HIV infection. Efforts in this study intend to buttress evidence of hemato-toxicity associated with administration of HAARTs by using Zidolam. Material & Methods: 30 albino rats with body weight (bwt) of 150 - 230 gm were used for the 2-phase study. Solution of the drug in sterile water was administered via oral cannula to the 2 groups of 10 rats (5 males and 5 females) each at daily dose of 1.29mg/100gm bwt respectively for 21 days during phase I. Phase II was a recovery study involving 10 rats (5 males and 5 females) exposed to dose regimen as in phase I, and sacrificed after 21-days withdrawal of treatment. The control group of 10 animals (5 males and 5 females) was given sterile water ad-libitum. Blood samples were collected by cardio-puncture from the rats for hematology at the end of each phase. Results: Zidolam caused significant reduction (P< 0.05) in the hematological parameters of the animals. Discontinuation of the drug use caused gradual restoration of the parameters in the recovery group. Conclusion: The results suggested that Zidolam could induce anemia and leucopenia in the treated animals. This supports the reason it is used with caution in anemic and leucopenic patients with HIV infection and perhaps reason for pre-hematological screening before treatment with zidolam. Key Words: Zidolam; hematology; wistar rats; Highly active antiretroviral combination therapy (HAART)DOI: 10.3126/ajms.v1i2.3352Asian Journal of Medical Sciences 1 (2010) 41-44
Age Dependendent Efficacy of Ace Inhibitors Among Chinese Cardiovascular Patients During Hospitalization Phase
Authors: Tabish Hussain  , Li Yu Shu  , A Seid Adji  , Tumenjavkhlan Sosorburam
Published: January 2025

Objective: Cardiac failure is a global burden among cardiovascular diseases, and major cause of morbidity and mortality especially among elderly age group. Angiotensin Converting Enzyme(ACE) inhibitors, remained the choice of treatment as they inhibit the renin angiotensin aldosterone system along with reduction in levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, both of them are key factors in progression and complications of heart failure. The aim of this study was to rule out the effect of aging and efficacy of ACE inhibitor, Captopril, among Chinese cardiovascular patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI) during the hospitalization phase of therapy. Material & Methods: Randomized control trial at hospital of Tongji Medical College Wuhan, China over a period of more than 1 year from April 2009 till July 2010 recruiting patients in two stages. A total of 260 patients with mean age 65±8 years were recruited. All suffered from first time myocardial infarction and arrived in Cardiac emergency within 72 hours of the event. The participants were then randomly divided in study and control groups which were then further classified in sub-groups depending upon their age. Study group received ACE inhibitor Captopril in addition to standardized therapy while control group just received the conventional therapy for the event. Statistical analyses were done to formulate the corre-lation between multi-variables. Results: Participants were divided in Study group (N=150) (A and C, Young and Old) and the control group (N=110) (B and D, Young and Old). Survival rate was better among elderly on captopril in comparison to younger ones during the hospitalization. The Systolic blood pressure among study group was significantly lower than control group (132.9±16.3mmHg/84.7 ±9.1mmHg vs. 147.1±17.4mmHg/85.1 ±10.9mmHg, P<0.05).Patient’s survival was statistically significant with respect to age (P<0.001). Conclusion: Treatment with Captopril is definitely associated with improved short as well as long term cardiac prognosis and markedly. Captopril therapy is associated with improved long term prognosis and reduced cardiac mortality during the hospitalization phase of the therapy and recovery period. But the most significant finding is that the increased survival after taking Captopril was higher in elderly patients than in younger patients. ACE inhibitors like Captopril in proper dosage play a real vital beneficial role among elderly patients as compared to the younger ones, but still there is need to recruit a large cohort in different ethnic groups with different genetic makeup. Key Words: Myocardial infarction (MI); Ace-inhibitor; Aging DOI: 10.3126/ajms.v1i2.2947Asian Journal of Medical Sciences 1 (2010) 59-63
International Conference on HIV-AIDS in Nepal-2010
Authors: Assistant Editorial
Published: January 2025

DOI: 10.3126/ajms.v1i2.4166
 
 
Asian Journal of Medical Sciences
1 (2010) 91-108
Fetus in Fetu (Pre-surgical dilemma: Review of literature and a case report)
Authors: Senthil Shanmugam  , Om Prakash Sharma
Published: January 2025

Fetus in fetu is an extremely rare developmental anomaly, due to disorganised embryogenesis in a diamniotic monochorionic pregnancy. Approximately 87 reports have been documented in the literature to date. We describe such an entity in two months old boy, who presented with abdominal distension and features of obstruction. Plain X ray abdomen and CT scan helped in correct pre operative diagnosis. The literature on this rare entity is reviewed, and the diagnosis and pathogenesis of the disease are discussed.
Key Words: Fetus in fetu; CT scan; Teratoma; Axial skeleton; Diamniotic monochorionic twins
DOI: 10.3126/ajms.v2i1.3208
Asian Journal of Medical Sciences 2 (2011) 68-71
Rare Variant Origin of Right Testicular Artery - A Case Report
Authors: Y Mamatha  , BS Prakash  , K Padmalatha
Published: January 2025

Variations in the origin of arteries in the abdomen are very common but with the invention of new operative techniques within the abdomen cavity, the anatomy of abdomen vessels has assumed much more clinical importance. The gonadal arteries normally arise caudal to the renal arteries as antero-lateral branch. In contrast to classical description, very rarely originate from lumbar, common or internal iliac artery, or superior mesentric artery. Here we report a very rare case of variant origin of right testicular artery from right common iliac artery. Awareness of such variations becomes very significant and important during surgical or interventional procedures in abdomen-pelvic areas.
Key words: Testicular artery; Abberrant artery; Variant origin; Renal artery; Gonadal vessels
DOI: 10.3126/ajms.v2i1.3860
Asian Journal of Medical Sciences 2 (2011) 65-67
Upper intestine - New target for type-2 diabetes: A review
Authors: Srinivas Martha  , Javier de las Heras  , Srividya Ramreddy  , Uday K Veldandi  , Narayana Pantam
Published: January 2025

Type-2 diabetes is a chronic metabolic progressive disease, affects 200 million people worldwide will leads to increased death by more than 50% in the next 10 years. The ingested nutrients stimulate the release of gut peptides called incretins, which enhance the insulin secretion from pancreatic β cell, in addition to this, recently, another gut mediated mechanisms called intestine-brain-liver axis to regulate glucose homeostasis by a neural circuit, initiated in the intestine in response to nutrient sensing, that increases sensitivity to insulin levels. In this mini review, the underlying mechanisms of gut related glucose regulation and its impact on the management of type-2 diabetes mellitus.
Key Words: Type-2 diabetes; Intestinal nutrients; Long chain fatty acids; intestine-brain-liver axis; metabolic surgery
DOI: 10.3126/ajms.v2i1.3403
Asian Journal of Medical Sciences 2 (2011) 56-62
Impact of Lymphocyte Apoptosis in Diabetes mellitus
Authors: Awadhesh K Arya  , Deepa Pokharia  , Hemant Kumar  , Manish Mishra  , Tripathi Kamlakar
Published: January 2025

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder. It is the most common cause of blindness, kidney failure, and amputations in adults and a leading cause of heart disease and stroke. These patients are more prone to infection which shows that there is suppressed cell mediated immunity during diabetes progression. Lymphocytes play a crucial role in  maintenance of cellular & humoral immunity both and its development requires cellular selection to remove potentially auto reactive cells via apoptosis. Apoptosis of lymphocyte clones play a pivotal role in purging the body of dangerous lymphocytes to maintain the development and regulation of the immune system. Indeed, inefficient elimination of lymphocytes can contribute in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases like insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. Several clinical and experimental studies have revealed that uncontrolled diabetes leads to lymphocyte death which enhances susceptibility towards infections and creates a permissive environment for bacterial growth. The aim of this article is to review the findings that the high incidence of infection in poorly  controlled diabetic states may be positively correlated with an increased proportion of apoptotic lymphocytes.
Keywords: Lymphocyte; Infection; Programmed cell death; Autoantigens; Immunity
 
DOI: 10.3126/ajms.v2i1.3516
Asian Journal of Medical Sciences 2 (2011) 1-6
Salmonella Paratyphi A in India - Changing trends in presentation and antibiotic susceptibility
Authors: Sanjay V Kulkarni  , Arun Narayan  , Vrithmani Aprameya Indumathi  , Tejas Suresh Rao  , Punith Kempegowda
Published: January 2025

Objective: Not only has the prevalence of enteric fever due to Salmonella paratyphi A increased over the last decade, there has also been a change in common presenting symptoms and antibiotic sensitivity pattern of these organisms. Knowledge of the existing epidemiology of the disease is essential for a rational approach to treat the same. Hence the present study was done to establish the existing epidemiology of enteric fever due to Salmonella paratyphi A-their common presenting symptoms and antibiotic sensitivity pattern- at our setting.
Material & Methods: This prospective study was conducted in MS Ramaiah Hospitals, Bangalore between January 2008 and December 2008. Patients admitted to the hospital with clinical suspicion of enteric fever and whose blood culture grew paratyphi A were included in the study. Common presenting symptoms and signs were recorded in these patients and the sensitivity patterns of the causative organisms were studied. The difference in their response to Ciprofloxacin and Ceftriaxone was studied. The analysis was done using the statistical software package-SPSS Version 16. The difference in the defervescence period was calculated by 2-way Independent two-sample t-test.
Results: A total 32 patients were included in the study. Fever and hepatomegaly were the most common symptom and sign among the study subjects. All isolates were susceptible to commonly used antibiotics except for Nalidixic acid. The mean defervescence period was shorter in patients treated with Ceftriaxone as compared to those treated with Ciprofloxacin (p<0.002).
Conclusion: We report a change in the presentation and antibiotic sensitivity of paratyphi A infection as compared to existing literature. Ceftriaxone is a better drug as choice as it has shorter defervescence time.
Key Words: Salmonella paratyphi A; Ceftriaxone; Ciprofloxacin; Defervescence
DOI: 10.3126/ajms.v2i1.3546
Asian Journal of Medical Sciences 2 (2011) 14-17
Sensitization and its impact on Reproductive and sexual health issues of adolescents in clinics and schools - a comparative study.
Authors: Arun Kumar De  , Souvik Mitra  , Kollol Das  , Sebanti Goswami  , Sukanta Chatterjee
Published: January 2025

Objective: Adolescent Reproductive and Sexual Health Issue is an important component of Youth Friendly Health Services. The objective of this study to compare the impact of sensitization on adolescent reproductive and sexual health issues of adolescent clients between clinic and school setting using the youth-friendly principles.
Material & Methods: An urban–based prospective longitudinal study, conducted at adolescent health clinic and schools. The participants are adolescents in the age group of 14-18 years (both boys and girls). Intervention: Youth-friendly sensitization. Main outcome measures: Change in the knowledge on different ARSH issues among adolescent clients in both clinics and schools.
Results: Statistically significant improvement (p values< 0.05) in knowledge on various aspects of ARSH issues among adolescent clients in both clinic and school setting.
Conclusion: Youth-friendly sensitization makes positive change in the knowledge of adolescents on ARSH issues in both clinics and schools.
Key Words: Adolescent; ARSH (adolescent reproductive and sexual health); Condom; Menstruation; Sensitization
DOI: 10.3126/ajms.v2i1.3537
Asian Journal of Medical Sciences 2 (2011) 23-27
Phenotypic Characterization and Antibiotics Combination Approach to Control the Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Strains Isolated from the Hospital Derived Fomites
Authors: Pravin R Dudhagara  , Anjana D Ghelani  , Rajesh K Patel
Published: January 2025

Objective: The emergence of antibiotic resistant Stphylococcus aureus strains have resulted in significant treatment difficulties which have imposed a burden on health care systems and simultaneously intensifying the need for new antimicrobial agents. Therefore, we have designed the study to determine the prevalence of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and their antimicrobial susceptibility pattern along with evaluation of antibiotic combination approach.
Material & Methods: Isolation and identification of MRSA was carried out using Mannitol salt agar followed by Baird-Parker Agar and Vojel-Johnson Agar media. Strains were tested for the sensitivity against five β-lactum, two macrolide and one fluoroquinolone class of antibiotic. Further sensitivity was confirmed using 9 diverse- second and third generation antibiotics. MIC value of individual and mixture of antibiotics were measured using Mueller-Hinton broth.
Results: Total 10 stains of S. aureus were isolated and characterised using standard biochemical tests. They were identified using on-line identification tool- GIDEON (Global Infectious Disease and Epidemiology Network). Almost 50% strains were reported having variable reaction against at least one or more antibiotic. By the use of augmentin (30μg), cephotaxime (30μg), ceftriaxone (30μg), cefuroxime (30μg), ciprofloxacin (5μg), clindamycin (2μg), gentamycin (10μg), lincomycin (2μg) and tobramycin (10μg) further susceptibility tesing was carried out which reveals absolute resistant in 70% of strains, whereas, remeaning strains were seen having variable responses against five antibiotics. However, with comparison to standard antibiotic zone of inhibition, all strains were categorized as a resistant. An individual application of ampicillin, tetracycline and amikacin required higher concentration to inhibited all the stains while combination of two or three antibiotics were identified having low MIC value. Combination of tetracycline with sulbactam and cefoperazone was found best to contol MRSA.
Conclusion: Study highlights the wide spread presence of MRSA strains in fomites derived from hospital. These indicate the need of more precaution in clinic area to control the spread of the MRSA. Amalgamation of antibiotics is an effective remedy for MRSA infections and promising approach in developing country.
Key Words: Antibiotics combination; fomites; MRSA; Staphylococcus aureus
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v2i2.4258
Asian Journal of Medical Sciences 2 (2011) 72-78
Primary Coronary Sinus Thrombosis in Secondary Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome
Authors: Theodore Joseph , P. Chitrambalam  , K. Pradeep  , S. Viswakumar
Published: January 2025

Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APLA) is a non-inflammatory autoimmune disease characterised by spontaneous abortion, thrombocytopenia and thrombosis (arterial and venous). Intracardiac thrombosis is a rare complication of APLA, but coronary sinus thrombosis in APLA has hitherto not been reported. We recently treated a young woman with secondary APLA and systemic lupus erythematosus in whom coronary sinus thrombosis was detected in association with recurrent pulmonary embolism.
Key Words: intracardiac thrombosis; antiphospholipid antibody syndrome; systemic lupus erythematosus; coronary sinus thrombosis
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v2i2.3885
Asian Journal of Medical Sciences 2 (2011) 102-104
Dietary Diversity is Associated with Nutrient Intakes and Nutritional Status of Children in Ghana
Authors: Chistina Antwiwaa Nti
Published: January 2025

Objective: The study was conducted with the objective of assessing the possible associations between dietary diversity, nutrient intakes and young child nutritional status in Ghana.
Material & Methods: A cross-sectional survey involving one hundred mothers with young children between the ages of 6 and 18 months was conducted using a combination of methods. Structured interview using questionnaire, dietary assessment and anthropometry were used to collect the data. Dietary diversity was assessed by using food group count. The WHO (1998) recommended daily nutrient needs from complementary foods for infants receiving average breast milk intakes were used to assess the energy and nutrient content of the diets consumed by the children. The WHO (1983) reference was used to assess child nutritional status. The data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 16 in Windows.
Results: About 16% of the study children were underweight whiles 8% were both stunted and wasted. The mean dietary diversity score was 4.6. Significant differences were observed between dietary diversity groupings and energy/nutrient intakes of the children. Generally, as dietary diversity improved, energy and nutrients intakes also in-creased. Again, dietary diversity was significantly associated with weight-for-age, length-for-age and weight-for-length. As dietary diversity increased, child nutritional status also improved. Children who had low dietary diversity exhibited low scores in terms of weight for age, length for age and weight for length.
Conclusion: High dietary diversity improves energy and nutrients intakes, and hence dietary adequacy, as well as child growth and nutrition.
Key Words: Dietary Diversity; Nutrient Intakes; Child Nutritional Status
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v2i2.4179
Asian Journal of Medical Sciences 2 (2011) 105-109
Las redes sociales y su impacto en la identidad social en estudiantes de secundaria en una institución educativa pública, Los Olivos 2024
Authors: Vara Urquiza Stephany Marcela , Garay Peña Luis Edilberto
Published: January 2025

La presente investigación tuvo como objetivo establecer de qué manera las redes sociales se relacionan con la identidad social de los estudiantes del 5to de secundaria de la I.E 2022 Abraham Valdelomar Pinto, Los Olivos 2024. Corresponde al enfoque cuantitativo, tipo básica, nivel descriptivo correlacional con un diseño no experimental-transversal. Se consideró una población de 148 estudiantes, y una muestra probabilística de 107 estudiantes del 5to de secundaria, de las secciones A, B y C de la citada institución educativa con un muestreo aleatorio simple. La técnica utilizada fue la encuesta y su instrumento el cuestionario, constituido por 18 preguntas elaboradas bajo la escala de Likert, con una confiabilidad de 0.809 y 0.807 para las variables redes sociales e identidad social, respectivamente, según la prueba de Alfa de Cronbach. Los resultados indican que el 71.0% de la muestra tiene un nivel medio de acceso a las redes sociales, el 19.6% un nivel bajo y el 9.3% un nivel alto; asimismo, el 58.9% alcanza un nivel medio en reconocer su identidad social, el 33.6% un nivel bajo y tan solo el 7.5% un nivel alto. Se concluye en admitir que el 45.8% de los integrantes de la muestra consideran una relación positiva moderada entre ambas variables y las redes sociales se relacionan de manera significativa con la identidad social de los estudiantes del 5° de secundaria de la institución educativa 2022, Los Olivos, 2024.
The Impact of Applying Quality Assurance Standards on Teaching Methodologies of Bilingual Teachers at Kabul University, Afghanistan
Authors: Nadir Laila , Auzarmi Z.Khalil Raman
Published: January 2025

Quality assurance (QA) in academic settings is a systematic process to determine whether the provided services meet the requirements of the society. In order to consistently ensure that the process and the services are reliable enough, application of quality assurance standards (QAS) is a must. Thus, the purpose of this research article is to illustrate the impacts of implementing of quality assurance standards on teaching methods of the bilingual instructors at Kabul University. In addition, the level of achievements that have been made will be outlined, the challenges will be specified and necessary recommendations will be provided. The result of the study demonstrates that how teaching methodology has been changed through applying QAS in different faculties at Kabul University. This study employs a qualitative content analysis, so conducting interviews with the faculty members and using survey questionnaire are the supportive tools for collecting relevant data.
Effectiveness of English Learner’s Material in Enhancing Grammatical Competence of Grade 9 Bilingual Students: A Basis for Supplementary Material Development
Authors: Dangan Johanna Paula Norma P. , Cruz Ruth A. Ortega-Dela
Published: January 2025

The study was conducted in order to determine the level of effectiveness of the English learner’s material on the grammatical competence of randomly selected Grade 9 bilingual students of a public secondary school in the Philippines.  The students were subjected to grammar test and self-rating assessment of grammatical competence in participle, gerund and adverb before and after using the English learner’s material. Answering the survey questionnaire for assessing English instructional materials was limited to the perception of the respondents of the study. Based on the findings, Grade 9 students are not grammatically competent. The teacher’s guide for Grade 9 teachers are not effective in guiding them in the teaching of their lessons. The learner’s material used by the students are not effective in helping the students understand their lesson and activities. Thus, the study suggested that to improve the grammatical competence of the students, more relevant and useful supplementary materials should be made and given to them. These materials should address their needs or weaknesses. Teaching-learning materials should be constantly evaluated to better guide the teachers and effectively enhance the grammatical competence of Grade 9 bilingual students
Using Illustration Images to Enhance Junior High School Students’ Writing Skills
Authors: Barbe Katharina , Sakkir Geminastiti , Syafitri Evi , Dollah Syarifuddin
Published: January 2025

Purpose
The purpose of this research is to explore the use of visual media illustration images in improving secondary school students' paragraph writing skills.
Methodology
This study used a pre-experimental one-group pretest-posttest design method. This research was conducted in one of the Indonesian public secondary schools. The population in this study were all students enrolling in the final year of their education. The researcher used a purposive random sampling technique due to the suitability of the purpose of the research. The instrument for the research is a written pre and post-tests
Results/Findings
Based on the results of the study, it is clear that the use of visual illustration media can improve students' paragraph writing skills, with the mean posttest is greater than the mean of pretest (57.08, 73.36). The significance value of this research is <000, which means it is smaller than the significance level of 0.05. The results of the pretest and post-tests obtained t-table 2.063, t-count 12.629, df 24, and p<000. From this data, it indicates that the use of visual media illustration images can improve students' paragraph writing skills.
Implications
The evidence from the research shows that the use of visual media illustration images can have pedagogical impact on teaching writing including the improvement of the understanding of paragraph writing components. This media can be an alternative tool for educators for teaching paragraph writing.
English Teachers’ Strategies in Creating Formative Test Questions in a Public High School
Authors: Ibrahim Irna Aswanti , Abduh Amirullah , Korompot Chairil Anwar
Published: January 2025

Purpose
This research is about the strategies are used and challenges faced by English teachers in creating formative test questions. In this research, there are two research questions were proposed, namely: 1) What are the strategies used by English teachers at SMA Negeri 1 Takalar in creating formative test questions? 2) What are the challenges encountered by English teachers at SMA Negeri 1 Takalar in creating formative test questions?
Methodology
The method used in this research was the qualitative descriptive method. This study involved two English teachers at SMA Negeri 1 Takalar.
Results/Findings
The results of this study indicate there are some types of strategies are used by English teachers at SMA Negeri 1 Takalar in creating formative test questions, namely: a) The English teacher contacting the other English teachers; b) Discussing with the other English teachers; c) Analyzing the results of the discussion; d) Drawing conclusions; e) Reading or understanding the basic competence of the material; f) Reading a lot of references; g) Creating the questions based on the basic competence; h) Conducting content validity; i) Using students’ knowledge; and j) Using level of difficulty. Meanwhile, for the challenges are encountered by the teachers in creating formative test questions, there are some types of challenges, namely: a) The difficulty in selecting of words; b) The difficulty to know the level of students’ knowledge and measuring students’ ability; and c) The lack of facilities.
Implications
This research offers some implications for the other teachers because this research can help many people, in this case teacher in creating formative test questions. Through this research, other teachers can know what the strategies used and the challenges encountered by English teacher in creating formative test questions.
Area Assessment of English in the Application of Edupreneurship in Convention and Event Business Management in a Public Tourism Polytechnic
Authors: Suparto Windy Puspitasari , Lao Yandres A. Dj. , Salim Muhammad Arfin Muhammad
Published: January 2025

Purpose
The purpose of this study was to identify, describe, and analyze the application of edupreneurship in convention and event business management for English classes at the Makassar State Tourism Polytechnic
Methodology
The qualitative descriptive method was used by researchers in this study. What is meant by "qualitative descriptive research" is survey research that determines and explains the use of the strategy for implementing the Makassar State Tourism Polytechnic.
Results/Findings
In general, it can be said that the results of research related to the implementation of edupreunership through teaching factories show the commitment of vocational institutions or tertiary institutions to edupreneurship learning. This is evidenced by the empowerment of entrepreneurship aimed at all levels, this fact proves that entrepreneurship subjects have strategic meaning for students and institutions.
Implications
The conclusion highlights that while schools aim to align with edupreneurship through teaching factories, they face challenges in synchronizing with business and industry practices. These hurdles include deficiencies in work culture adherence, teaching staff's unfamiliarity with industry standards, unmet infrastructure benchmarks, universities' insufficient collaboration with industry entities, and regulatory constraints imposing the use of state assets for revenue generation
Web based Instruction for Immersion Class in Alauddin State Islamic University of Makassar
Authors: Farida Farida , Supardi Supardi , Muchtar Jumardin
Published: January 2025

Purpose
This study aims to understand web-based instruction for immersion to students. It is intended to identify the use of the web on zoom media and websites to hone students' English language skills to improve students' fluency in English language skills.
Methodology
Furthermore, this study was conducted in the English education department at the State Islamic University of Alauddin Makassar where English is used as the language of instruction. The class consisted of 15 students. In addition, this study used qualitative methods.
Results/Findings
The results showed that This immersion instruction is relatively frequent and strong because before the lecturer starts in class, the lecturer performs the act of speaking English and prepares the material to be given to students by giving specific instructions so that students can skillfully communicate in the presented English. Furthermore, students learn through videos guided by native speakers and hone their English-speaking skills with confidence. Thus, it can be said that students are quite enthusiastic to practice speaking English and can follow the instructions with the immersion learning system on video media and the application of immersion program on speaking skills is quite effective for communication between students by using 3D website so that students can hone their speaking skills with native speakers in virtual 3-dimensional form.
Implications
Implementing web-based instruction in immersion classes not only opens doors to a more versatile and accessible learning environment but also demonstrates the potential for enhanced engagement and interactive language acquisition methodologies.
Research Gap on Oral Corrective Feedback in Second Language Acquisition Theory - Affective Filter Analysis: A Conceptual Framework
Authors: Ramdani Amaliah , Musa Nur Ainun , Nurchalis Nur Fadillah , Dahlan Suratman
Published: January 2025

Purpose
Oral corrective feedback, despite its historical precedence, continues to captivate researchers' interest, driving ongoing discourse within the scholarly community. The existing body of research on this subject displays a degree of controversy, with divergent perspectives regarding its efficacy. While proponents endorse its utilization, opposing voices question its impact. This study seeks to identify research gaps within the last decade to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current state of oral corrective feedback literature. 
Methodology
Employing content analysis, data are extracted from pertinent documents, shedding light on the existing landscape. 
Results/Findings
This study suggests that while oral corrective feedback is widely used and debated in language learning, there is insufficient research addressing its potential drawbacks. It calls for further studies to fill this gap and ensure that oral corrective feedback practices effectively benefit language learners.
Implications
This study emphasizes the importance of future research in refining practices and ensuring positive outcomes in language education.
Storytelling in Higher Education: Comparing Expectancy- Value in Task-Exposed and Non-Exposed English Learners
Authors: Wang Ran
Published: January 2025

Purpose
This research aimed to investigate the impact of storytelling with higher complexity on English majors’ attitudes and expectancy-value for tasks from the perspectives of their perception, confidence, challenge, and motivation.
 
Methodology
This quasi-experimental research exposed three storytelling tasks to English majors (N=73) in the experimental group and assigned two control groups(N=74, 152) without storytelling task intervention. Along with and after the experiment, a questionnaire for attitudes and expectancy-value toward storytelling tasks in English learning was administered to English majors (N=299) in the three groups from private and vocational colleges in Guangzhou. Quantitative data was collected through the questionnaire.
 
Results/Findings
The results showed that many English majors considered storytelling simple and childish, disregarding its role in shaping personal experiences and world values. However, exposure to complex storytelling tasks heightened the challenge of accomplishing the tasks, thus leading to a decline in their overall expectancy and value toward tasks. Students without exposure to complex storytelling tasks, regardless of self-reported relevant experience, demonstrated higher and non-significant differences in expectancy-value components, except challenges. The study emphasized the alignment of storytelling tasks with English majors’ career objectives, highlighting the role of storytelling in narrative.
 
Implications
The results contribute to a theoretical understanding of storytelling in higher education and provide practical insights into designing storytelling tasks for English learners at an advanced level.
How Do English Teachers Prepare Diagnostic Assessment for Students? Insight from Teachers’ Experiences in an Indonesian Remote Island
Authors: Masbara Abdi , Abduh Amirullah , Iskandar Iskandar
Published: January 2025

Purpose
This research aims to describe the preparation of diagnostic assessment used by English teachers in an Indonesian remote island in Central Sulawesi.
 
Methodology
This research was conducted at two Junior High Schools located far from the city center of Central Sulawesi. The researcher applied a qualitative case study design. A purposive sampling was used to gain the sample with theory of data saturation. The subject of this research was the three English teachers in the schools that implement Merdeka Curriculum. The data were collected through interview, observation and documentation. The data analysis technique used was thematic analysis.
 
Results/Findings
The result of the research showed that the English teachers prepared the diagnostics assessment by scheduling time of assessment, identifying material of assessment and compiling assessment questions or instrument to be used in the implementation of the diagnostic assessment.
 
Implications
The findings of this research underscore the critical importance of developing a curriculum that effectively supports the implementation of diagnostic assessments. Educational institutions and policymakers are encouraged to leverage these insights to create targeted training programs that enhance teachers’ abilities to design and execute diagnostic evaluations. Furthermore, the study highlights the potential for improving the overall quality of English language instruction in remote areas, as understanding the preparatory processes for diagnostic assessments can enable educators to identify students’ learning needs and tailor their interventions more accurately accordingly. Additionally, the research advocates for the adoption of the best practices in diagnostic assessment preparation, suggesting that other schools, particularly those in similar contexts, could benefit from implementing the successful strategies employed by the teachers at these junior high schools. Finally, this study paves the way for future research into the effectiveness of diagnostic assessments in enhancing student learning outcomes, encouraging subsequent investigations into the relationship between such assessments and academic achievement across diverse educational setting
Role-Play in Language Learning: A Bibliometric Analysis and its Impact on Thailand Secondary Education
Authors: Kongsaenkham Ananta , Chano Jiraporn
Published: January 2025

Purpose
This study investigates the trends, challenges, and pedagogical implications of role-play as a method for English language learning in Thai secondary schools.
 
Methodology
Utilizing bibliometric analysis, 800 publications from 2019 to 2024 were analyzed to identify research patterns and thematic developments.
 
Results/Findings
The results reveal a consistent decline in research output, with the highest number of publications recorded in 2019 and 2020 (170 articles each), followed by a significant decrease in subsequent years. The bibliometric analysis identified 44 key terms distributed across six thematic clusters, emphasizing areas such as communication skills, student engagement, and interdisciplinary applications. Despite the declining research focus, role-play remains an effective pedagogical tool for enhancing English speaking proficiency, fostering authentic communication, and building learner confidence. However, its implementation in Thai secondary schools faces challenges, including traditional teacher-centered approaches, large class sizes, and limited resources. To address these challenges, this study highlights the potential of integrating modern technologies, such as virtual and augmented reality, into role-play activities to enhance accessibility and engagement. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of adopting performance-based assessments to evaluate students’ progress more effectively.
 
Implications
This research contributes to the understanding of role-play's enduring relevance and offers practical recommendations for its revitalization in language education. By addressing existing barriers and leveraging innovative approaches, role-play can remain a transformative strategy for fostering English language proficiency and student engagement in Thai secondary school contexts.
PERBEDAAN TINGKAT KECEMASAN SEBELUM DAN SESUDAH PEMBERIAN V-EDU PADA PASIEN PRA KATETERISASI JANTUNG
Authors: Supriyadi Agus , Pradika Jaka , Kardiatun Tutur
Published: January 2025

Latar belakang: Menurut organisasi kesehatan dunia, diperkirakan 17,9 juta orang meninggal akibat penyakit kardiovaskular pada tahun 2021. Deteksi dini pada penyakit kardiovaskuler dapat dilakukan salah satunya dengan pemeriksaan yang paling terpercaya (gold standard) yaitu kateterisasi jantung. Katerisasi jantung merupakan tindakan invasif non bedah yang fungsi utamanya adalah mendeteksi gangguan pembuluh darah dan jantung secara spesifik. Pemeriksaan ini dapat menimbulkan reaksi berupa stress dan kecemasan. Diperlukan cara untuk mengatasi masalah tersebut, salah satunya adalah dengan pemberian informasi melalui video edukasi.
Tujuan: Untuk mengetahui perbedaan tingkat kecemasan sebelum dan sesudah pemberian V-edu pada pasien pra kateterisasi jantung di RSUD dr.Soedarso Kalimantan Barat.
Metode: Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian Quasi eksperimen (Pre dan post test Design) tanpa kelompok kontrol. Teknik  pengambilan  sampel  yang digunakan  adalah probability Sampling dengan jenis Quota Sampling. Data  diambil  meliputi karakteristik  responden  dan  tingkat  kecemasan  dengan  skala  Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (Z-SARS), dikumpulkan menggunakan kuesioner (google form) dan dianalisis menggunakan Uji Marginal Homogeneity.
Hasil: Uji statistik didapatkan hasil nilai p value sebesar 0.000 < 0.05, artinya terdapat perbedaan yang signifikan sebelum dan setelah mendapatkan intervensi V-edu pada tingkat kecemasan pasien pra kateterisasi jantung di RSUD dr.Soedarso Kalimantan Barat.
Kesimpulan: Pemberian V-edu dapat menurunkan tingkat kecemasan pasien pra kateterisasi jantung di RSUD dr.Soedarso Kalimantan Barat melalui peningkatan informasi dan pemahaman tentang prosedur katetrisasi jantung.
GAMBARAN STATUS GIZI BERDASARKAN INDEKS MASA TUBUH DAN LINGKAR LENGAN ATAS
Authors: Pradika Jaka , Sumarna Felisianus , Amelia Lince , Astuti Purnamawati Ditha , Patama Kharisma , Amrullah Syahid
Published: January 2025

Background: Nutritional status is one of the important elements in shaping health status. The utilization of nutrients in the body is influenced by two factors, namely primary and secondary. Primary factors are conditions that affect nutritional intake due to the improper arrangement of food consumed, while secondary factors are nutrients that do not meet the body's needs due to disturbances in the utilization of nutrients in the body.
Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the Nutritional Status of Body Mass Index (BMI) and Upper Arm Circumference (LILA) at SMP Negeri 04 Retok Acin Kuala Mandor B.
Methods: This research method is descriptive with a cross sectional approach.
Results: The results showed that based on the BMI value, the most respondents were found in the normal category, namely 31 people (57.4%), and the second category was thin there were 18 people (33.3%), and the fat category was 5 people (9.3%) while obesity did not exist in total from this category there were 54 people with a percentage (100.0). Based on LILA, the results obtained with the percentage of categories at risk of Chronic Energy Deficiency (CHD) were more, namely 46 people (85.2%), and not at risk of CHD as many as 8 people (14.8%).
Conclusion: Based on BMI values, most of the students of SMPN 4 kuala mandor B have normal BMI categories as many as 31 people (57.4%). and based on LILA values, most students are at risk of SEZ, namely 46 people (85.2%).
Optimal Empirical Strategy for Deriving the Spot Curve: The Case of Poland
Authors:   SGH Warsaw School of Economics, Collegium of Economic Analysis, Poland, Bartkiewicz Piotr
Published: January 2025

We use a proprietary dataset of daily quotations of individual bonds from the period 2005–2018 to assess the
appropriateness of three common yield curve intrapolation methods: Nelson-Siegel (NS), Diebold-Li (DL) and cubic
splines. Spot (zero-coupon) yield curves derived from the methods are used to price all securities in the sample
in both in-sample and out-of-sample settings. The results highlight trade-offs inherent in any empirical strategy:
between flexibility and in-sample fit, between overall fit and fit in particular segments of the curve. We look at
both in-sample and out-of-sample. Cubic splines offer the best in-sample fit, but out-of-sample results indicate
that NS and DL curves might be a better choice for researchers interested in medium- and longer-dated securities.
We also assess the usefulness of short-term interbank offered rates as proxy for the shortest part of the yield
curve, finding no appreciable empirical benefit and lack of theoretical justification.
European Union Sanctions Impact on The Sector Stock Prices – The Ukrainian War Effect?
Authors:   University of Warsaw, Faculty of Management, Poland, Chodnicka-Jaworska Patrycja , Jaworski Piotr ,   University of Warsaw, Faculty of Management, Poland, Kot Marcin ,   University of Warsaw, Faculty of Management, Poland
Published: January 2025

The aim of this paper is to analyze the current impact of the implementation of the European Union sanctions
related to the Ukrainian War on the abnormal rates of return on the stock prices of companies listed on the stock
exchanges. It was hypothesized that the implementation of the European Union sanctions related to the Ukrainian
War is causing the varied abnormal rates of return on the stock prices of companies listed on the stock exchanges,
taking into consideration the type of sector and the geographical proximity to the military conflict. The analysis
used panel data event studies prepared using the daily rates of return on the stock prices of companies listed
on the stock exchanges. Data were collected from the Refinitiv Eikon database. The models included divisions
according to the type of sector and the geographical proximity to the military conflict. The results show that the
reactions of subsectors varied. The significant impact was in the vicinity of Russia and Ukraine.
La efectividad de la formación de formadores en intervenciones preventivas basadas en la evidencia. Una revisión sistemática basada en el protocolo PRISMA
Authors: Orte Socías Carmen , Bellver Moreno Carmen , Vives Barceló Marga
Published: January 2025

La formación de formadores en las intervenciones basadas en la evidencia científica es clave para garantizar la efectividad de estas intervenciones. En los programas preventivos de conductas adictivas, comportamientos antisociales o de riesgo y/o conductas suicidas, una adecuada preparación de los profesionales es esencial. Sin embargo, existe poca información e investigación sobre cómo son y cómo se evalúan las formaciones de formadores de estos programas. Mediante una revisión sistemática, se exploran las características de estas formaciones, sus metodologías formativas, los instrumentos de evaluación y las variables que se miden. Los principales resultados apuntan, primero, en cuanto a las características de las formaciones, que éstas están principalmente orientadas a la prevención de la salud, seguido de programas familiares y parentales orientados a la intervención en problemas sociales y emocionales. Segundo, respecto a las metodologías formativas de los programas, se destaca la importancia de los formatos activos y que fomenten la implicación de los participantes. Y tercero, en relación a las variables de resultados, se constata la necesidad de realizar evaluaciones mixtas y la relevancia de las autoevaluaciones de los formadores. En conjunto, la heterogeneidad de las variables medidas y las características de las formaciones dificulta la valoración global y se recomienda una mayor convergencia hacia variables e instrumentos de evaluación que puedan medir con fidelidad la efectividad de estas formaciones (p.ej., mejora de las competencias y del conocimiento de la intervención).