bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring tertiary EFL learners’ and teachers’ perceptions of the effectiveness of EFL writing course syllabi: Pedagogical implications
Authors: Patwary Md. N. , Reza Md. M. , Tithi Sadia A.
Published: October 2024

Given the importance of effective and standard syllabi in developing tertiary students’ EFL writing skills, this study aimed to analyze the perceptions of Bangladeshi tertiary EFL learners and teachers towards the effectiveness of English writing course syllabi in developing writing proficiency. The study involved 392 students and 14 EFL teachers from seven Bangladeshi universities in a five-point Likert-scale questionnaire survey using a purposive sampling procedure. The results show that both students and teachers had a negative perception of the effectiveness of most of the components of the syllabus, namely, objectives of the syllabus, content and skill coverage, instructional time, suitability, and effectivity of the instructional materials covered in the syllabus. However, students had a positive perception of the effectiveness of the writing content, while teachers had a low perception of this aspect of the writing syllabus. Recommendations call for policymakers and syllabus designers to ensure that EFL writing course syllabi include essential subject components and skills, adhere to global standards, and provide ample classroom practice time for students. The study also highlights the need for devising better syllabi to meet the needs of tertiary EFL learners' academic and professional needs and guide EFL teachers to meet the expectations of Bangladeshi tertiary EFL education.
Targeted feedback for Indonesian-speaking classrooms in higher education context: A perspective from educators’ lens
Authors: Katrina Herda Rozanah , Fitrianingsih Ihtiara , Kaur Dalwinder
Published: October 2024

In today's interconnected world, excellent communication is essential to develop relationships and cooperate with people from various cultural backgrounds. Therefore, individuals with strong speaking abilities can explain their views clearly, negotiate successfully, and develop rapport across borders. However, many students are still facing difficulties and anxiety in producing spoken context in English classrooms. In terms of speaking skills in the EFL context, targeted feedback is a sort of instruction that is particular and focused, given to an individual based on their performance, activities, or habits. In educational settings, it is intended to specifically address specific parts of an individual's work or skill development in a precise manner. This qualitative study that involved 10 lecturers at college levels aimed to reveal their perspectives on the targeted feedback for speaking proficiency. The multiple-case study was applied here to identify and analyze the issue in speaking classrooms. Focus Group Discussion was conducted as a research instrument and analyzed using verbatim techniques. Findings revealed teachers are still facing challenges, yet they are exploring good chances to nurture students’ speaking skills at the same time. Additionally, the perspectives also figured out the principles of targeted feedback practised by the lecturers in speaking classes.
Teacher-written feedback in L2 writing education: Insights into student tensions and responses
Authors: Santiago Sanchez Hugo
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to investigate the perceptions and experiences of six undergraduate students enrolled in two writing courses within an L2 teacher education programme. The focus was on understanding the tensions these students experienced when engaging with their tutors' written feedback and the impact of these tensions on their responses. Adopting a qualitative methodology, the research involved semi-structured background interviews and stimulated recall interviews. Key findings reveal multiple dimensions of tensions, including emotional, interpersonal, academic, and institutional. Students employed various adaptive and maladaptive strategies to navigate these tensions, ranging from proactive engagement and peer support to avoidance and selective feedback engagement. The study also identified five characteristics of the interaction between tensions and responses: dynamic, context-dependent, idiosyncratic, cumulative, and interconnected. These insights emphasise the need for educators to provide clear, specific, and constructive feedback, and foster a supportive environment that mitigates negative impacts and promotes adaptive strategies. The findings have significant implications for research and practice, advocating for the development of feedback literacy among educators and students to enhance the effectiveness of written feedback in L2 writing education.
Developments in Regional Inequality in Greece
Authors: Karakitsios Alexandros
Published: October 2024

Greece experienced a sharp drop in economic activity due to the restrictive measures against the COVID pandemic in 2020. However, an immediate rebound followed, and the overall growth path was interrupted only temporarily. This growth path was translated into increases in disposable incomes, illustrated by changes in the entire income distribution, while income inequality fell. However, regional inequalities persist. This paper analyses the developments in income inequality in Greece from 2017 to 2022, focusing on the regional dimension of inequality and employing standard decomposition methods. It is found that there is significant income inequality within regions, probably explained by other socio-economic factors. At the same time, inequality between regions doubled, indicating diverging paths across regions of Greece.
Влияние концентрации и температуры на удельную электрическую проводимость эталонных растворов — эталонов сравнения хлористого калия. Часть 1. Экспериментальные исследования электрического сопротивления и удельной электрической проводимости эталонных растворов.
Authors: Примаченко Борис Макарович
Published: October 2024

Получены результаты исследований электрического сопротивления и удельной электрической проводимости эталонных растворов — эталонов сравнения хлористого калия
от концентрации и температуры в практических интервалах использования. Предложена методика проверки качества эталонных растворов с помощью критерия физической адекватности. Определены коэффициенты корреляции электрического сопротивления от миллитемпературы
растворов различной концентрации. Доказано соответствие полученных результатов нормальному закону распределения.
Комментарии к использованию концепции неопределённости
в метрологии
Authors: Розенталь Олег Моисеевич , Дубов Никита Дмитриевич
Published: October 2024

Неопределенность измерений как параметр, относящийся к их результату и характеризующий разброс значений, которые могли бы быть обоснованно приписаны измеряемой величине, сопоставлена с традиционно применяемой метрологами погрешностью. В свое время логическим обоснованием перехода от погрешности измерений к неопределенности явилось представление о первой величине, как разности между измеренным и истинным значением контролируемой величины. Указывалось, что поскольку последняя величина неизвестна, то якобы неизвестна и разность. В данной работе показана неточность этого утверждения, вытекающая из статистической теории погрешности измерений, по которой упомянутая разность характеризуется некоторым законом распределения вероятности. Показано также, что введение термина «неопределенность» вместо «среднеквадратическое отклонение» ничего не меняет, а только затрудняет пользователю чтение многочисленных литературных источников по математической статистике. При этом наибольшие трудности возникают, если имеется несколько источников неопределённости или проводятся косвенные измерения. К тому же переход к концепции неопределенности потребует замены традиционной терминологии, на которой базируются стандарты серий «Статистические методы» и «Государственная система обеспечения единства измерений», что приведёт к неоправданным затратам. Кроме того, предлагаемый переход позволит получить точно такие же результаты, как и с использованием классических методов, вследствие чего будет отсутствовать какой-либо эффект от внедрения неопределенности измерений.
Occupational Hazards Among the Agricultural Workers in a Rural Area of South India
Authors: SV Bhavana , Cheluvaraj Pavithra , Bidare Sastry Nanda Kumar , Nallur Somanna Shivaraj
Published: October 2024

Background: Agriculture is one of the most hazardous occupations, employing around 60% of India’s workforce. Agricultural workers face occupational hazards in the form of physical, chemical, biological, mechanical, ergonomic, psychosocial, and so on. This study assessed the physical, chemical, biological, and mechanical health hazards among agricultural workers.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 agricultural workers selected through multistage random sampling in a rural area to assess their occupational hazards.Results: Physical hazards were the most common hazards reported by 390 workers (97.5%), followed by mechanical hazards by 200(50%), and biological hazards by 79(19.7%). Chemical hazards were noted in 136(86.4%) out of 155 participants who used chemicals in the form of pesticides and insecticides.Conclusion: All agricultural workers experience one or the other types of occupational hazards. These hazards have a bearing on the quality of life among the agricultural workers who form the primary workforce in our country and contribute significantly to the economy. It is crucial to ensure a robust health information system to track down and respond to agricultural workers’ various health events, develop and implement a need-based intervention program through the formal healthcare system, and prevent and avert occupational health hazards in this group.
Differentiation of Suspected Methanol Poisoning From Ethanol Poisoning: A Review Study and Consensus Statement
Authors: Deylami Mansour , Ziyaei Maryam , Pishbin Elham , Zamani Moghadam Hamid , Farzaneh Roohie , Rezvani Kakhki Behrang , Hakemi Arman , Sanie Jahromi Mohammad Sadegh , Maleki Fatemeh , Kalani Navid , Soroosh Davood , Malekshoar Mehrdad , Zarei Tayyebeh
Published: October 2024

Background: Ethanol and methanol poisoning pose significant clinical challenges due to their overlapping clinical presentations. This literature review and consensus statement aim to provide evidence-based guidelines for differentiating these two poisonings.Methods: We conducted a comprehensive literature review of relevant literature, including individual patient data (IPD) meta-analysis, to assess clinical, laboratory, and diagnostic findings in cases with ethanol and methanol poisoning. A literature review was also performed to gather case series of electrocardiograms of ethanol and methanol poisoning. We synthesized the evidence and convened an expert panel to develop consensus-based recommendations.Results: Based on the literature review and IPD analysis, cases of methanol poisoning often present later than 24 hours after alcohol consumption, emphasizing the importance of assessing patients with delayed referrals. Methanol-poisoned patients are frequently awake and responsive after 12 hours of ingestion, but symptoms alone do not reliably differentiate between the two poisonings. Declines in visual acuity and symptoms are strongly associated with methanol poisoning and should prompt immediate hospitalization and ophthalmic examination. Oliguria and anuria are more common in cases of methanol poisoning, warranting detailed urinary symptom assessment and close monitoring of urinary output. Electrocardiograms are essential for all alcohol poisoning patients, with non-sinus rhythm suggesting methanol poisoning. Arterial blood gas analysis, with low pH values, favors methanol poisoning. However, blood sugar levels alone cannot definitively determine the type of poisoning. Laboratory point-of-care tests to diagnose methanol in serum are urgently needed.Conclusion: This literature review and consensus statement offer guidance for healthcare providers facing cases of alcohol poisoning where point-of-care testing methods of blood alcohol concentrations are unavailable. A comprehensive assessment, considering clinical history, physical examination, laboratory data, and specialized evaluations such as ophthalmic examination and electrocardiograms, is essential for accurately differentiating ethanol and methanol poisoning.
Assessing Alcohol Genes Targets in Mouse Liver
Authors: Mansouri Vahid , Rezaei Tavirani Mostafa , Arjmand Babak , Razzaghi Zahra , Robati Reza , Rezaei Mitra
Published: October 2024

Background: Alcohol is a risk factor for liver diseases. There is a correlation between alcohol consumption and fatty liver disease. Experiences have shown gene expression alteration in the liver following alcohol consumption. Since the molecular mechanism of connection between alcohol consumption and fatty liver disease needs a clear perspective, this study aims to explore the significant genes that are targeted by alcohol in the liver of mice.Methods: Gene expression profiles of mice livers fed with alcohol were retrieved from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and compared with the control samples. Data are pre-evaluated with the GEO2R program, and the significant differentially expressed genes (DEGs) are analyzed via gene expression evaluations and regulatory network assessment. Results: Among the 25619 dysregulated genes, 78 significant DEGs were pointed out. Gene expression analysis showed that most extremely dysregulated genes are up-regulated and belong to the cytochrome P450 genes family. Finally, cytochrome P450 and glutathione S-transferase genes family, as well as hydroxy-delta-5-steroid dehydrogenase, 3 beta- and steroid delta-isomerase 4, were introduced as the critical targeted genes.Conclusion: In conclusion, detoxification of xenobiotics, cellular metabolism and homeostasis, the pathogenesis of some liver diseases, synthesis of several prostaglandins and steroid hormones, and inflammation fibrosis in the liver are possibly associated with alcohol consumption.
The Impact of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Waves on DNA Fragmentation Index and Spermatogenesis-related Genes Expression in Rats
Authors: Zahmatkesh Parisa , Mohammadi Abdolreza , Mashhadi Rahil , Khatami Fatemeh , Mirzaei Akram , Zareian Baghdadabad Leila , Khalili Fatemeh , Gholami Keykavos , Rahimnia Ramin , Noori Narges , Aghamir Seyed Mohammad Kazem
Published: October 2024

Background: We aimed to evaluate the impact of radiofrequency electromagnetic waves (RF-EMW) with wavelengths equivalent to mobile phones on semen parameters and expression levels of spermatogenesis-related genes in rats. Methods: A total of 20 male adult Wistar rats weighing approximately 180 g were randomly allocated to two study groups in this controlled, parallel-design study. The case group was exposed to RF-EMW. The gene’s expression was assessed by real-time PCR for five target genes: ZBTB16, SCP3, ACR, ITGA6, and PRM1. Results: The DNA fragmentation index (DFI) assessment reveals a significant difference between the cases and the control group. There was a two-fold increase in ACR gene expression than in the RF-EMW exposure group. The contradictory result was seen in the other four genes, which showed that gene expression decreased to about 0.3 for PRM1 and SCP3, 0.5 for ITGA6, and 0.7 for ZBTB16. Sperm motility was not significantly different between the two groups, but morphology in the case group revealed higher abnormalities than in the control group. Conclusion: We recommend reducing exposure time to radiofrequency waves, and keeping cell phones away from our bodies as far as possible is safer. Additional studies are required to support our data.
Studying Motor Praxis in Children With Varying Levels of Developmental Coordination Disorder
Authors:   Department of Motor Behavior, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran., Khezri Abdolrahman , Sheykh Mahmood ,   Department of Motor Behavior, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran., Bagherzadeh Fazlollah ,   Department of Motor Behavior, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran., Homanian Davood ,   Department of Motor Behavior, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims This research aimed to examine the gesture production ability of motor praxis among children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD) and children on the verge of developing DCD and compare it to typical children of the same age and younger. Methods For this reason, 91 boys (6-12 years old) were selected as sample size and divided into five groups (20 children with typical development, 14 children with DCD, 17 children on the verge of developing DCD, 20 typically-developed children aged 8-9 years, and 20 typically-developed children aged 6-7 years). To find the children with DCD, we employed the developmental coordination disorder questionnaire 7th edition (DCDQ-7) and the Bruininks–Oseretsky test of motor Proficiency. The Dewey gesture production test was performed to investigate motor praxis. Data analysis was performed using variance analysis and an independent t test. Results Comparing the subjects’ performance in different conditions showed that their performance in transitive motor praxis was better than intransitive one (P<0.05). Also, the comparison of verbal command and imitation position showed that between the two DCD groups, the performance in the imitation movements was significantly better (P<0.05). While in the same age control group, no significant difference was seen between motor praxis in two conditions (P>0.05). The between-group comparisons showed that the performance of two DCD groups was disrupted compared to that of the control group at the same age. The performance of the DCD group compared to lower-age children with typical development (8-9 years old) was not different at the verbal command condition. In the imitation position condition, the DCD group performed significantly better than the lower-age children groups (P<0.05). Conclusion These results show that DCD subjects have developmental delays in performing motor praxis under verbal command.
Short-Term Effects of Foot Orthoses and Antipronation Taping on the Center of Pressure and Ground Reaction Forces of People With Flat Feet During Running
Authors:   Department of Biomechanics and Sports Injuries, Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran., Aghaie Ataabadi Peyman , Abbasi Ali ,   Department of Biomechanics and Sports Injuries, Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran., Letafatkar Amir ,   Department of Biomechanics and Sports Injuries, Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran.
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims Several treatments have been recommended to enhance the running mechanics of individuals with flat feet. Less emphasis has been paid to the impact of these treatments on the ground reaction forces (GRF) and the center of pressure (COP), while these kinetic effects are essential in identifying possible injuries and the body’s compensatory mechanisms in response to any therapeutic approach. The present study aimed to compare the effects of foot orthoses and antipronation taping on COP and GRF on the running of people with flat feet. Methods The present study was quasi-experimental with a randomized cross-over design. The kinematic and kinetic data of 20 young people with flexible flat feet were measured while running under three conditions: athletic shoes, athletic shoes with foot orthoses (FO), and athletic shoes with low-Dye (LD) tape. A one-way repeated measure analysis of variance from the SPM1d package was used to compare differences in GRF and COP time series under different conditions. Results The results showed that foot orthoses reduced the anteroposterior GRF compared to low-Dye tape and increased the lateral GRF compared to athletic shoes alone. However, the conditions did not significantly affect the vertical GRF (P<0.05). Moreover, FO-shoes and LD-shoes caused medial and lateral shifts in COP, respectively (P<0.05). Conclusion This research showed that foot orthoses cause inefficient force transmission in the anterior direction. Furthermore, running with FO-shoes and LD-shoes substantially influences COP displacements towards the end of the stance phase; however, it does not appear to increase running-related injuries since minimal load and forces are applied to the joint at that time.
The Effectiveness of Cognitive Rehabilitation Software on the Cognitive Functions of Patients with Non-Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors:   Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Education, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran., Josheghani Masoumeh , Tavakoli Mahgol ,   Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Education, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran., Emsaki Golita ,   Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Education, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran.
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is one of the cognitive profiles of senility. It is classified into amnestic and nonamnestic MCI depending on the involvement of different cognitive functions. This research aims to design a cognitive rehabilitation software based on the attention process model and investigate its effect on the attention and executive functions of older people with nonamnestic mild cognitive impairment. Methods This quasi-experimental research employed a pretest-posttest and follow-up design. After designing the software program, 30 older people over 60 who were diagnosed with nonamnestic mild cognitive impairment through NUCOG (Neuropsychiatry Unit Cognitive Assessment Tool) screening and a psychiatrist who met the inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to the experimental or control group (each with 15 people). To perform the rehabilitation intervention, a software system was designed based on Mateer and Sohlberg attention process training, whose validity and reliability have been confirmed in Iranian older adults. After the pretest, the experimental group received the rehabilitation intervention with the software, and the control group did not receive anything. Three months after the completion of the sessions, both groups were assessed as the posttest, and the results were compared using an analysis of covariance and the Mann-Whitney U test using SPSS software, version 26. Results The results indicated significant differences between the posttest scores of the experimental and control groups in the mean score of errors in congruent and incongruent selective attention, executive function score, time and error in alternating attention in the colors trail test A form (CTT-A) and time in alternating attention in CTT-B and also time and error in separated attention (P<0.05). However, there were no significant differences between the two groups posttest mean scores in selective attention time, time and error in sustained attention, and error in CTT-B alternating attention (P>0.05). The intervention did not cause any significant improvement in these domains. Also, the results were sustained after 3 months. Conclusion The results confirmed the efficacy of cognitive rehabilitation interventions. The designed cognitive rehabilitation software in this research can cause a significant improvement in attention and executive functions of patients with nonamnestic mild cognitive impairment. It can be used as a clinical intervention.
The Effect of Acute Focus of Attention Instructions on Biomechanical Indexes Associated With Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Prevention
Authors:   Department of Health and Sport Rehabilitation, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Health, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran., Dalvandpour Nazanin , Zarei Mostafa ,   Department of Health and Sport Rehabilitation, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Health, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran.
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is one of the most common and serious injuries of the knee joint, which accounts for 80% of all knee ligament surgeries. Studies have shown that a significant percentage of this injury (70%) occurs in a non-contact form, usually during activities like deceleration, landing, or side cutting. Studies have shown that focus instructions could improve and promote performance. This study aimed to investigate the acute effect of focus instructions on biomechanical indexes associated with ACL injury prevention. Methods In this research, 24 young football players from the two clubs of the Tehran Premier League, Tehran City, Iran, were randomly divided into two groups: external focus attention (n=12) and internal focus attention (n=12). First, the dynamic postural stability index (DPSI), the peak of vertical, anteroposterior, and mediolateral GRF components, and the rate of loading during the jump-landing movement from a box with 30 cm height were calculated using a force plate with a sampling frequency of 1000 Hz. Then, the internal and external focus instructions were taught to the participants, and the two groups performed a posttest to examine the changes. Statistical methods of repeated measures analysis of variance and paired t test were used to evaluate the changes. Results The results showed significant changes in the vertical component and rate of loading variables in both groups of internal and external focus attention (P≤0.05). However, no significant difference was observed between the two groups in the DPSI, anteroposterior and mediolateral GRF. Conclusion The results of this study showed that acute instructions of both internal and external focus attention can improve landing mechanics and landing-related kinetic variables. It seems that the external focus instructions have increased the motor control of the limb, leading to a further reduction of vertical GRF and the load applied to the lower limb compared to the instructions of internal focus, thus reducing the risk of ACL injury.
The Effect of Corrective Exercises on Strength, Power, and Endurance of Gluteal Muscles in Women With Weakness and Inhibition of Gluteal Muscles
Authors:   Department of Sports Injury and Corrective Exercises, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran., Nahidi Pardis , Moghadasi Afshin ,   Department of Sports Injury and Corrective Exercises, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran., Aghayari Azar ,   Department of Sports Injury and Corrective Exercises, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran.
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims Most women experience weakness and inhibition of the gluteal muscles, which negatively affects athletic performance and is known to cause multiple injuries and chronic pain. This study aimed to determine the effect of corrective exercises on gluteal muscles strength, endurance, and power in women with gluteal muscles weakness and inhibition. Methods We purposively identified 28 non-athletic women aged 25 to 45 years who were referred to Babolsar Rehabilitation Clinic (Babolsar City, Iran) for physiotherapy due to reasons such as fracture, strain, sprain, and dislocation of the upper extremity joints. They experienced inhibition and weakness of the gluteal muscles. After completing the physiotherapy course and returning to normal life, they entered the present study and were randomly divided into the control (n=15) and exercise (n=13) groups. The exercise group performed a corrective exercises program including inhibitory, lengthening, activating, and strengthening exercises with theraband for 8 weeks (3 sessions per week and 30 to 45 minutes per session). The power of extensors, abductors, and external rotators of gluteal muscles was measured using the Diako cable machine and based on the formula of one-repetition maximum. The power and endurance of gluteal muscles were measured by the single-leg glute bridge test and the vertical jump test in two groups. The data were analyzed by covariance analyses. Results The results showed a significant improvement in the strength of the gluteal muscles in the movements of extension, abduction, and external rotation of the thigh, also in the endurance and power of the gluteal muscles in the exercise group compared to the control group in the posttest (P<0.05). Conclusion This study showed that corrective exercises, including inhibitory techniques, lengthening, activating, and strengthening exercises, have the necessary components to improve the strength, endurance, and power of gluteal muscles. Therefore, this exercise program is recommended for people with weakness and inhibition of the gluteal muscles.
Acute Effect of Static and Dynamic Stretching on Activating Scapular Stabilizer Muscles During Pull-Up Movement in Gymnasts
Authors:   Department of Biomechanics and Sport Injury, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran., Kazemi Omid , Letafatkar Amir ,   Department of Biomechanics and Sport Injury, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran., Shojaedin Seyed Sadrodin ,   Department of Biomechanics and Sport Injury, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran., Hadadnezhad Maliheh ,   Department of Biomechanics and Sport Injury, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran.
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims Today, there is an argument about the effect of various stretching movements on the performance of athletes. Therefore, this study investigated the acute effect of static and dynamic stretching on muscle activity and co-contraction of scapular stabilizer muscles during pull-ups in gymnasts. Methods According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 15 professional gymnasts with a mean age of 23.25±2.57 years, height of 170.93±5.88 cm, and weight of 64.54±5.06 kg were selected as research samples and divided into three subgroups (each with 5 athletes). In the pre-test, subjects performed pull-up activity, and muscle activities of the serratus anterior, upper trapezius, middle trapezius, and lower trapezius muscles were measured using a biometric electromyography device. Then, each subgroup performed a different stretching protocol in each session, and a post-test was conducted like the pre-test. Repeated measures analysis of variance, the Bonferroni post hoc test, and the paired t test were used to test the study hypotheses. Results The results showed that static and dynamic stretching caused a significant decrease and increase in muscle activity in both concentric and eccentric phases, respectively. Also, the results showed that dynamic stretch caused a reduction in co-contraction of the serratus anterior and middle trapezius muscles in both concentric and eccentric phases. In addition, there is a significant difference between the effect of static and dynamic stretch and between dynamic stretch and control on the co-contraction of the serratus anterior and middle trapezius muscles in the concentric and eccentric phases. Conclusion The results showed that the co-contraction of the serratus anterior and middle trapezius muscles decreased after using dynamic stretching. Therefore, considering the importance of muscle co-contraction in the occurrence of shoulder joint injuries and preventing injuries in the shoulder joint of gymnasts, it is suggested that coaches and gymnasts use dynamic stretching exercises more carefully.
Responsible Consumption: Developing Sustainable Habits of Living for The Future
Authors: P. V. Krisha Shree  , K. Lochana  , Dr. S. Krishnakumari
Published: October 2024

This study looks at consumer behavior in a variety of socioeconomic circumstances with regard to sustainable consumption trends and variables. The study highlights the importance of personal beliefs, sociocultural elements, and outside influences by using a mixed-methods approach to uncover subtle patterns in consumer choices. To comprehend the intricacies of sustainable consumption, the theoretical framework incorporates socioeconomic variables, environmental psychology, and marketing methods. To collect both quantitative and qualitative data, the study makes use of questionnaires, interviews, and content analysis. The results emphasize how business sustainability activities and education play a part in influencing sustainable customer behavior. According to the research, there are still issues that need to be resolved, such as the absence of uniform sustainability criteria and more robust governmental interventions. The results highlight the significance of comprehensive approaches incorporating business, policy-driven, and educational activities for a sustainable future.
Inbreeding and adaptation to captivity depress the response to stress
Authors: Malo Aurelio , Wielebnowski Nadja , Alaks Glen , Bellem Astrid , Bryant Jocelyn , Lacy Robert
Published: October 2024

The success of reintroductions using captive-bred populations of wild species is potentially impacted by adaptations to non-natural captive environments. Little research has been done into how physiological traits change from wild to captive populations. We do not yet understand how glucocorticoid secretion patterns, a critical aspect of the stress response and other underlying life-history traits, change in the captive environment. Here we used 326 white-footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus) to test how the baseline concentrations of fecal glucocorticoid metabolites (fGM) change as this wild rodent adapts to captivity and becomes increasingly inbred over several generations. Breeding protocols did not influence FGM but showed a strong decrease with generations in captivity, an effect driven by both plastic and genetic effects. We also found that juvenile fGM concentrations strongly predict adult fGM concentrations. This allows intra-generation effects, such as habituation, to be transformed into inter-generation effects. Lastly, the relationship between inbreeding and baseline fGM concentrations suggests that the intensity of baseline adrenal activity and mounted stress response is positively associated with fitness. Also, because the relationship is significantly stronger for females than for males, the result gives us some insight into the sex-specific adaptive value of fGM concentrations.
Handle with care! Morphology of spines and milking practices in venomous fishes
Authors: Annona Giovanni , Tarallo Andrea , Locatello Lisa , De Luca Pasquale , Modica Maria
Published: October 2024

Venomous fish have independently evolved venom-delivery systems multiple times throughout their evolution. Despite the remarkable convergence of such structures, a large variety in venom-delivery structures morphology does occur across species. This review is aimed at delving into species’ peculiarities, exploring the diversity of venom glands and the potential ecological roles in relation to habitats and associated food webs. A detailed knowledge of the anatomy of highly diverse venom systems is a fundamental prerequisite to developing new and effective approaches to venom collection from different fish species. Here we discuss the venom collection and stabilization techniques in the light of this morphological diversity. Current extraction methods include the crushing of venomous structures, the direct extraction from glands, and pressure-based milking techniques, and the effectiveness of each technique varies depending on the species. The recent advances in venom extraction techniques, here presented, offer new perspectives not only for biotechnological applications but also to deepen into venom’s broader ecological and evolutionary roles. Our review, by providing an extensive comparative characterization of the venom delivery systems in relation to fish ecology, highlight gaps that remain to be addressed. Understanding the role of sex, developmental stage, and metabolic cost of venom production in the diversification of venom delivery-structures form and function represents a key further step to promote multiple research areas and potential applicative developments.
Parasites Infestations Status in Fish Species from River Orogodo, a Freshwater Municipal Stream, Southern Nigeria
Authors: ODUMA Ewoma Oghoghene , OGIDIAKA-OBENDE Efe , EBOH Obioma Jacinta
Published: October 2024

Parasites are ubiquitous and fish are host to some of these parasites that can be zoonotic. Assessing their status and trends is vital in public health safety, and aquatic ecology. The study aimed to identify parasites, assess the prevalence, identify the infection sites and also determine the variation in infection among sexes in fish from River Orogodo, Agbor, Delta State. A total of 780 fish, comprising 23 species belonging to 12 fish families were collected between September 2014 and August 2019 using cast nets of various mesh sizes and funnel entrance traps. Fishes were identified and examined using standard morphological keys.  According to established procedures, parasitological indexes were determined by inspecting various external and internal body parts. The overall prevalence recovered was 196 (25.1%) with twenty-two parasites including larvae stages both from external and internal parts of the fish. These include 5 protozoans (Microsporidium gen sp, Trichodina spp, Epistylis sp, Crytobia sp and Chilodonella sp), Myxobolus sp, 5 nematodes (Procamallanus laevionchus, Camallanus sp, Cucullanus sp, contracaecum larvae, Rhabdochona sp); 3 acanthocephalans (Acanthogyrus sp, Neoerchinorhynchus sp and Acanthocephalus sp), 4 cestodes (Monobothroides woodlandi, Wenyonia sp, Proteocephalid sp including plerocercoid larvae); 3 digeneans (Clinostomum sp, Euclinostomum heterostomum, Centrocestus sp, unidentified metacerceriae in the liver). The study revealed that female fish (32.5%) were more infected than their male counterparts (26.4%). The results indicate that fishes in River Orogodo, Delta State are hosts of various external and internal parasites, which may be of public health and aquacultural importance.
Corneal Clarity after Phacoemulsification: Nuclear Management by Stop and Chop vs Divide and Conquer Methods
Authors: Rosul Md. Golam , Jahan Tarana , Haque Shawana , Tussie Rumana
Published: October 2024

Background: Restoration of effective vision is the principal aim of all modalities of cataract surgery including Phacoemulsification. Energy level of ultrasonic power in Phacoemulsification and turbulence of fluid in the anterior chamber plays an important role in corneal endothelial cell loss influencing post-operative corneal clarity.
Objectives: To compare post-operative corneal clarity after Phacoemulsification by two techniques of nuclear divisions: stop and chop with divide and conquer.
Methodology: This prospective observational study was conducted at Shaheed Monsur Ali Medical College and Hospital, Uttara, Dhaka from January, 2023 to June, 2023.  The study was carried out on 30 outdoor patients undergoing Phacoemulsification at SMAMCH and Mirpur Eye Hospital, Dhaka. The selected patients underwent detailed ocular and systemic examinations with relevant investigations and divided equally into two groups comprising of 15 in group A (stop and chop) and 15 in group B (divide and conquer). Phacoemulsification was done in all patients by a single expert surgeon. Patients were followed up after 1 week, 4 weeks and 12 weeks of surgery. Corneal endothelial cell count and central corneal thickness were assessed in each visit. Mean value of these mentioned parameters in follow-up periods were compared between two groups. Unpaired t test was done to assess the level of significance.
Results: The mean age + standard deviation (SD) of the study subjects was 61.5+2 years, out of which 13(43.33%) were males and other 17(56.67%) females. Pre-operative value of mean endothelial cell count was 2620+70.20/mm2 in group A and 2625+71.10/mm2 in group B. Postoperative mean value + SD of endothelial cell count was 2420+68.90/mm2, 2345+66.64/mm2, 2310+66.04/mm2 respectively after 1 week, 4 weeks and 12 weeks of surgery in group A and 2410+69.54/mm2, 2340 +6587/mm2, 2310+64.45/mm2 in group B respectively. Mean value + SD of  central corneal thickness was 545+40.50 micrometer,  535+40.02 micrometer and 532+39.85 micrometer respectively after 1 week, 4 weeks and 12 weeks after surgery in group A and 547+43.98 micrometer, 537+41.23 micrometer and 533+40.63 micrometer respectively in group B.
Conclusion: Quantitative assessment and comparison of endothelial cell count and central corneal thickness shows that at end of the study, there was no remarkable difference in mean values of endothelial cell count and central corneal thickness between two methods.
Journal of Monno Medical College December, 2023; 9 (2):37-40
Knowledge and Experiences of Diseases with Associated Factors among Agricultural Workers in Manikganj District
Authors: Mahjabin Afsana , Ali Khondoker Mohammad , Alam Md. Jahangir , Emdad Md. Salahuddin , Nabila Faizun Nahar , Sohel Kazi AKM , Digarna Anabil
Published: October 2024

Background: Farmers are generally the people of poor segment of the society and agricultural workers are prone to develop different types of health problems.
Objectives: The study was conducted with a view to finding out the pattern of health problems of the agricultural workers in a rural area of Manikganj district.
Methodology: This was a descriptive type of cross-sectional study carried out in Koshunda village of Manikganj district during the period of November, 2021 to April, 2022 in the Department of Community Medicine, Monno Medical College, Manikganj. For finding out pattern of diseases, knowledge and practice of the study subjects were determined by using pretested questionnaire.
Results: Among the 300 cases, majority (124, 41.33%) of the respondents belonged to the age group 36-50 years. Most of the respondents (239, 79.67%) were male, being literate (195, 65.00%) had monthly family income of 10,001 or more BDT (139, 46.33%). Regarding cultivators’ knowledge of health problems during cultivation, majority (230, 76.67%) expressed occurring cut injury, followed by 206(68.67%) temperature injury, 85(24.08%) insect bite and others. Responding to question regarding injuries caused by tools and machineries of or animals involved in cultivation, majority (134, 44.67%) told that they are injured by handtools, followed by 51(17.00%) due to cattle’s kick, 46(15.33%) due to tractors and other machineries, and otherswhereas, majority of them (199, 66.33%) also reported that the injuries occur in hands, followed by 192(64.00%) in legs and others. Diseases experienced by the respondents during agricultural works included temperature-related injury (165, 55.00%), cut injury (96, 32.00%), skin problems (34, 11.33%) and others. Regarding the knowledge of the respondents’ choice of physician, majority (125, 41.67%) preferred MBBS Doctors, followed by rural medical practitioners (121, 40.33%), homeopathic doctors (67, 22.33%) and others.
Conclusion: Most of the farmers shared their knowledge of suffering from different types of diseases with choice of treatment by MBBS doctors.
Journal of Monno Medical College December, 2023; 9 (2):73-77
Impact of Ketogenic Diet in Metabolic & Brain Health
Authors: Akhtaruzzaman Md.
Published: October 2024

Abstract Not Available
Journal of Monno Medical College December, 2023;9(2):34-36
Pengukuran Tingkat Kapabilitas Tata Kelola Teknologi Informasi Dealer Akastra Toyota Menggunakan COBIT 5
Authors: Prasetyo Miko , Masya Fajar
Published: October 2024

Teknologi informasi memliki peranan yang sangat penting untuk mendukung operasional sebuah organisasi dan bisnis. Saat ini, teknologi informasi telah diterapkan di segala bidang, termasuk dalam bisnis otomotif seperti dealer mobil. Akastra Toyota adalah salah satu dealer resmi yang telah mengimplementasikan teknologi informasi untuk melakukan operasional proses bisnisnya menggunakan Dealer Management System. Namun dalam implementasinya ditemukan permasalahan seperti tidak dijalankannya beberapa proses operasional sistem, adanya duplikasi pekerjaan secara manual dan sistem, serta komponen pendukung sistem yang terkadang bermasalah, sehingga berdampak pada efektivitas dan efisiensi sistem. Untuk menjawab permasalahan yang ditemukan, maka perlu dilakukan evaluasi kinerja tata kelola teknologi informasi menggunakan framework COBIT 5. Metode kualitatif digunakan pada penelitian ini dengan teknik pengumpulan data berupa observasi, wawancara, dan kuesioner. Evaluasi tersebut bertujuan untuk mengukur tingkat kapabilitas tata kelola teknologi informasi berdasarkan proses DSS01 (Manage Operations), DSS03 (Manage Problems), dan DSS06 (Manage Business Process Controls), serta untuk memberikan rekomendasi perbaikan dalam penerapan tata kelola teknologi informasi yang berjalan. Dari hasil penelitian, tingkat kapabilitas DSS01 dan DSS06 berada pada level 3 (Established Process) dengan nilai kapabilitas DSS01 adalah 3,00 dan nilai kapabilitas DSS06 adalah 3,05. Untuk proses DSS03 ada di level 2 (Managed Process) dengan nilai kapabilitas 2,32. Sementara harapan di masa mendatanag berada pada level 4 (Predictable Process). Dari hasil tersebut dibuatlah rekomendasi untuk DSS01 yaitu mengadakan sistem helpdesk yang memuat menu backup log dan log peristiwa, mengadakan kontrak kerjasama dengan penyedia layanan, serta menambahkan aturan pemantauan aset dan kondisi peristiwa beserta dashboard untuk pemantauan. Rekomendasi untuk DSS03 yaitu mendefinisikan kriteria klasifikasi masalah beserta skema klasifikasinya, mengadakan sistem helpdesk yang memuat daftar masalah, laporan status, dan laporan penyelesaian masalah, serta melakukan analisis mendalam pada tren masalah untuk menemukan solusi berkelanjutan. Dan rekomendasi untuk DSS06 yaitu membuat laporan bulanan mengenai pemrosesan informasi, pelanggaran, dan hasil mutu setiap proses. Selain itu mengadakan dashboard monitoring dan media komunikasi antar pihak terkait, serta membuat panduan mengenai persyaratan work product, proses dokumentasi, dan proses kontrol.