bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of Dipeptidyl Peptidase IV Inhibitors in the Management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Davian Joas Vinsensius , Zen Fadil Ahmad  , Rouly Pola Pasaribu
Published: July 2024

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major global health issue. Recent research suggests dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibitors, primarily used in diabetes management, may have beneficial effects on lung function and inflammation in COPD. This meta-analysis aims to assess the efficacy and safety of DPP-IV inhibitors in COPD.
Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases was conducted from January 2018 to June 2024. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing DPP-IV inhibitors with placebo or standard COPD therapy in patients with COPD were included. Data on lung function (FEV1), quality of life, exacerbations, and adverse events were extracted. Meta-analyses were performed using random-effects models.
Results: Ten RCTs involving 4,520 patients were included. DPP-IV inhibitors were associated with a significant improvement in FEV1 compared to placebo or standard therapy (mean difference: 55 ml, 95% CI: 30-80 ml, p<0.001). Quality of life scores also showed a trend toward improvement. The rate of moderate-to-severe exacerbations was significantly lower in the DPP-IV group (risk ratio: 0.75, 95% CI: 0.60-0.93, p=0.008). Adverse events were similar between groups.
Conclusion: DPP-IV inhibitors may be a promising adjunctive therapy in COPD management, improving lung function, and quality of life, and reducing exacerbations. Further research is warranted to confirm these findings and investigate long-term effects.
Risk Factors and Management Strategies for Dry Eye Syndrome: A Comparative Study
Authors: Ehasn Khalil Abed  , Abbood Aiad Ali
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Dry eye syndrome (DES) is a prevalent multifactorial ocular surface disorder characterized by discomfort, visual disturbances, and tear film instability. This study aimed to investigate the risk factors associated with DES and compare the effectiveness of various management strategies.
Methods: A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted at an ophthalmic consultant clinic from March 2023 to October 2023. One hundred patients diagnosed with DES were enrolled. Demographic data, including age, gender, and body mass index (BMI), were collected. Ophthalmological examinations, including slit-lamp examination, non-contact tonometry, fundus examination, tear break-up time (TBUT) measurement, and ocular surface disease index (OSDI) questionnaire assessment, were performed. The management strategies employed were categorized as medical, surgical, or a combination of both.
Results: The study population predominantly consisted of females (70%) with a mean age of 49.65 years. The majority of patients (57%) fell within the overweight BMI category (25-29 kg/m2). TBUT values of 7 seconds and 8 seconds were most prevalent (35% and 37%, respectively), and the majority of patients (65%) reported an OSDI score of 2. Notably, two-thirds of patients received medical treatment, one-third underwent a combination of medical and surgical treatment, and a small proportion (5%) underwent surgery alone.
Conclusion: Female gender, increased BMI, and older age were identified as significant risk factors for DES. Patients with DES symptoms exhibited shorter TBUT values and higher OSDI scores, indicating tear film instability and increased disease severity. Medical treatment was the most common management strategy, followed by a combination of medical and surgical interventions. These findings underscore the importance of early diagnosis and individualized treatment plans for effective DES management.
Effect of Technical Factors in the Uptake of EMRs in the Inpatient Department in Public Health Facilities in Kiambu County
Authors: Lokorio Ekidor Ateyo , Kumar Pratap
Published: July 2024

The management of the hardcopy inpatient information in public healthcare facilities in Kenya has proved to be an uphill task. That is informed by the fact that these types of records are more vulnerable as compared to electronic medical records. Electronic medical records are legal patient records that are created and stored in a digital format in health. Hardcopy medical records are prone to damage through wear and tear, fires, and getting lost because of misplacement. That is not the case with electronic medical records, which are more secure because they have a backup system and can be easily retrieved when needed. This difficulty in the utilization of hardcopy medical records necessitates the utilization of electronic medical records. The study analysed the effect of technical factors on the uptake of electronic medical records in the inpatient department in public health facilities in Kiambu County. The study adopted a descriptive research design. A sample of 85 respondents was selected through simple random sampling. The respondents were doctors, hospital administrators, clinicians, and nurses. Primary data was collected through the issuance of questionnaires. Data were analysed through descriptive statistics, correlation, and multiple regression analysis. Study findings were presented in figures and tables. Study findings indicate a positive and significant association between technical on the uptake of inpatient electronic records management in PHF in Kiambu County. The study suggested that there is a need for enhancement of the level of communication among all stakeholders. Organizations should have a budgetary allocation, regular human capacity building, senior management support, and clarity of strategic plan implementation to optimize the uptake of electronic medical records in public health facilities in Kiambu County. Further, there need for sensitization on the use of electronic medical records to optimize organizational efficiency and minimize medical errors. Further, there is a need for the development of strategies aimed at influencing EMR positively among the utilization of inpatients, clinical officers, and medical officers in public health facilities
Influence of Instructional Methods on Female Students’ Performance in Mathematics in Baringo Central Sub-County, Kenya
Authors: Changwony Rose J. , Chemwei Bernard
Published: July 2024

Mathematics is a crucial subject in achieving Vision 2030, which aims to make Kenya highly advanced. Nevertheless, girls’ achievement in Mathematics has been low over time in Kenyan high schools. Their poor output and disinterest in mathematics could be attributed to inappropriate instructional methods employed by teachers. Inappropriate methods of instruction tend to stifle knowledge retention and application. This paper explores how mathematics teachers’ use of instructional methods shape girls' scores in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education in Baringo Central Sub-County. The research appropriated the systems approach to instruction mooted by Ayot and Patel. It was a descriptive survey by design sampling 190 respondents, comprising 18 subject instructors, 6 heads of sections, and 166 female students. Purposive sampling was utilised to pick the heads of departments and Mathematics teachers and simple random sampling to obtain the Form Four learners. Questionnaires for instructors and learners, interview for HODs, and an observation framework were used to collect data. The collected data was processed using both Chi-square and Karl Pearson correlation. Descriptive statistical techniques, such as standard deviation, percentages, frequency tables, and means, were also used. The study's findings indicated that the instructional methods influenced girls' mathematics performance. The study established that instruction techniques had a limited yet significant bearing ([r=0.210] p<0.05) on girls’ output in KCSE Mathematics tests. It was concluded that the instructional methods used influenced girls' performance in KCSE Mathematics. Instructors’ approaches for teaching mathematics impact how learners apply, evaluate, and generate knowledge and solve math problems. Therefore, the study recommends that teachers are in-serviced more in Mathematics education
Multiple chemical sensitivity: a review of its pathophysiology
Authors: Lavric Cătălina Elena , Migueres Nicolas , de Blay Frédéric
Published: July 2024

Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is an unexplained acquired medical condition that includes multiple, vague, recurrent, and non-specific symptoms in different organs. They are attributed to exposures to various and structurally unrelated environmental chemicals at concentration levels that are well tolerated by the majority of people and normally considered not to have toxic effects in humans. The aim of this review is to examine the multiple explanatory hypotheses for the pathophysiology of MCS: genetic, metabolic, neurological, immunological, and psychological. Several publications suggest a neurological and immunological activation. However, this neurological and immunological hyperresponse is not always observed when performing challenge tests. This suggests that behavioral conditioning could be an important mechanism in the pathogenesis of MCS. Even if psychiatric conditions appear not to be a major cause of MCS, in the case of genuine psychiatric disease, psychotherapeutic therapy is mandatory. Because of the complexity of the pathophysiology, there is no specific drug to treat MCS. However, the use of cognitive behavioral therapy is encouraged, as it has a significant positive impact on patients’ perception of their illness.
Gum Arabic-assisted green synthesis of gold nanoparticles as fluorescence modulator for potential analytical applications
Authors: Algahiny Ahmed T. , Elmitwalli Omar S. , Kassim Deyari A. , Deen G. Roshan , Akhtar Sultan , Henari Fryad Z.
Published: July 2024

Aim: To demonstrate a simple, eco-friendly, and cost-effective green method to synthesize gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) using the aqueous extract of gum Arabic (GA) as a reducing and stabilizing agent.
Methods: Green synthesis of nanoparticles, characterization by absorption, infra-red and fluorescence spectroscopy.
Results: The absorption spectrum (UV-Vis) showed an absorption peak ~522 nm corresponding to the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) absorption peak of AuNPs. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images revealed spherical-shaped nanoparticles with an average size of 15 nm. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis showed that the nanoparticles are coated with organic compounds that are present in GA. The fluorescence quenching properties of the AuNPs were assessed by monitoring their effects on fluorescence intensity of coumarin 153 (C153) dye. The fluorescence of the dye decreased with an increase in concentration of the nanoparticles. Upon addition of the protein bovine serum albumin (BSA) to the mixture the fluorescence increased (recovery) again.
Conclusions: The fluorescence quenching and recovery (turn-on/off system) is a valuable method for protein detection in solution. By observing the effect of BSA on the quenched fluorescence, this nanoparticle system shows promise in biomedicine, drug delivery and environmental monitoring.
Derecho de la Competencia y deporte profesional: Comentario a la Sentencia del Tribunal de Justicia de la Unión en el asunto Superliga.
Authors: Irurzun Montoro Fernando
Published: July 2024

El pasado 21 de diciembre de 2023, la Gran Sala del Tribunal de Justicia de la Unión Europea ("TJUE") dictó sentencia en el asunto C-333/2021 (European Superleague Company, en adelante, la Sentencia Superliga o la Sentencia) y lo hizo el mismo día en otros dos asuntos relacionados con el deporte, el derecho de la competencia y las libertades básicas de la Unión: el asunto C-124/21 P (International Skating Union, ISU) y el asunto C-680/21 (SA Royal Antwerp).
Aunque cada una de estas sentencias afronta aspectos diferentes del deporte profesional y la sentencia Superliga es la que por razones mediáticas ha acaparado mayor atención, su lectura conjunta, en especial la de las dos primeras, determinan un elenco jurisprudencial que está llamado a influir decisivamente en la organización del deporte profesional en la Unión Europea en los años venideros.
LITERATURE SURVEY ON THE DETERMINANTS OF THE TAX AVOIDANCE IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
Authors: Khurram Shabbir Muhammad
Published: July 2024

Purpose: This study reviews the avoidance of tax practice in developing nations. Based upon the narrative review the study contributes with respect to the relevant determinants that affect the avoidance of tax among the firms located in the developing countries.
Design/Methodology: : The studies related to tax avoidance in developing countries were gathered from leading journals. This study follows the review strategy of the narrative review.
Findings: The findings of the developing countries' studies documented that tax avoidance exists.  The major determinants of tax avoidance were ownership structure, information transparency, family ownership, political affiliation, financial distress, and audit characteristics.
Implications: The tax authorities when formulating tax policies in developing countries should equally consider the determinants of tax avoidance. The tax policies should be formulated keeping in view the determinants of tax avoidance.
Originality: This paper based upon the narrative review has its uniqueness in providing a detailed review of tax avoidance studies of the developing countries. It provides the avenues of the unexplored research areas of tax avoidance in the context of developing countries for future researchers.
Identification of Deceased Individual Using Forensic Odontology Techniques
Authors: Satwik Chatterjee
Published: July 2024

This case study documents the critical role of Forensic Odontology in the identification of a severely decomposed body discovered in a remote forested area in April, 2023. Traditional Identification Methods, such as- Fingerprinting & Facial Recognition were unfeasible due to the advanced decomposition of the remains. The body was referred to Forensic Odontologists, who utilized detailed dental examinations, radiographic analyses, & comprehensive comparison with Ante-Mortem Dental Records to achieve a positive identification. The initial examination revealed that, despite extensive decomposition, the dental structures were well preserved. The Forensic Odontologist conducted thorough Photographic documentation,Dental charting, & Radiographic analysis, Specific features such as- Restorations, Wear Patterns, & Tooth Alignment. High-resolution photographs & Detailed dental charts were created, Intraoral & Panoramic Radiographs were taken to capture the internal & external structures of the teeth. Law enforcement provided Ante-Mortem Dental Records for three potential matches from recent missing person reports. One set of records, belonging to a missing person identified as- John Doe, exhibited distinct dental characteristics that closely matched the Post-Mortem findings. Key matching features included the presence of severalamalgam fillings, a gold crown, on the upper left first molar, unique wear patterns indicative of bruxism, rotated & crowded teeth. Radiographic superimposition confirmed the alignment of dental restorations, root structures & bone patterns between the Post-Mortem & Ante- Mortem Records. The convergence of these multiple lines of evidence led to the positive identification of the deceased as John Doe. The durability & individuality of dental structures make them invaluable in forensic investigations, providing crucial evidence for resolving missing person cases & offering closure to families. The findings highlight the importanceof maintaining comprehensive dental records, the need for adequate training & resources for Forensic Odontologists, & the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration in forensic investigations. This case study demonstrates the effectiveness of Forensic Odontology & its essential role in the field of forensic science.
USING CONTAINERIZATION IN THE DEVELOPMENT AND DEPLOYMENT OF CYBERSPORTS PLATFORMS
Authors: Bychkov Vadym ,   Chief Technology Officer at Hawk Live LLC Batumi, Georgia
Published: July 2024

This study examines the application of containerization in the development and deployment of esports platforms. Utilizing a comprehensive methodology including literature review, expert evaluations, and experimental modeling, the research investigates architectural solutions, scalability, fault tolerance, and security aspects of containerized esports systems. The findings demonstrate that containerization, coupled with microservices architecture and orchestration tools like Kubernetes, provides significant advantages in terms of flexibility, scalability, and resilience. Results indicate that while containerization offers substantial benefits, its successful implementation requires careful planning and optimization. The research contributes to the understanding of practical aspects of container technologies in esports platform development, offering methodological approaches and architectural solutions for creating high-performance, reliable systems capable of meeting the growing demands of the esports industry.
POSTMODERNIST VIEWS OF TIME AND SPACE IN LITERATURE
Authors: Sadeq Zaid Razzaq ,   Ministry of Education, Najaf Governorate Directorate, Iraq
Published: July 2024

The paper analyzes the postmodernist perspectives on time and space portrayed in literature. Postmodernism, as a literary and cultural movement, questions conventional ideas about time and space by highlighting their flexibility, disintegration, and subjective characteristics. Postmodernist literature frequently feature non-linear storylines that blur the distinctions among past, present, and future, interrupting the conventional linear flow of time. Postmodernist literature examines how space is created and dismantled, highlighting its dependence on social and political factors. Spaces are considered to be socially produced structures that mirror and sustain power dynamics and social hierarchies. This paper summarizes the main features of postmodernist perspectives on time and space, emphasizing their influence on narrative organization, identity development, and the examination of power dynamics. The paper highlights the impact of postmodernist views on time and space, such as disrupting conventional narratives, shifting authority, and offering different interpretations of reality. This abstract provides insights on how postmodernist literature questions traditional concepts of time and space, creating opportunities for fresh inquiry and interpretation.
Método de las Fuerzas para Vigas Hiperestáticas de Hormigón Considerando las Deformaciones por Cortante
Authors: Villarroel Bejarano Carlos Enrique
Published: July 2024

El objetivo de la investigación fue calcular la variación de las fuerzas internas de vigas hiperestáticas de hormigón mediante el método de las fuerzas, considerando el aporte de las deformaciones por cortante. Se planteó un modelo genérico de viga hiperestática de hormigón con vanos iguales, sometido a cargas concentradas en el centro de cada vano. Aplicando el método de las fuerzas se determinó el sistema de ecuaciones que gobierna el modelo, con lo que se obtuvieron las fuerzas internas. El modelo se trabajó con base en tres elementos fundamentales: la deformación por cortante, la deformación por flexión y las propiedades del material. Se determinó que las vigas de hormigón sufren un incremento importante en los momentos flectores cuando se consideran las deformaciones por cortante, llegando a un incremento máximo del 14% para vanos muy cortos. Finalmente, esta investigación plantea que para vanos con longitudes superiores a 2 metros la influencia de la deformación por cortante puede considerarse insignificante.
FABRICAÇÃO DA LIGA DURALUMINIO AA2219 PROCESSADOS ATRAVÉS DE TÉCNICAS DE METALURGIA DO PÓ
Authors: Lott Michelle Maria Perez , Silva Clécio Vicente da , Bezerra Djailson Joaquim , Lira Heronilton Mendes de , Silva Inaldo Amorim da , Machado José Matheus da Costa , Lima Kamilla Rayssa Lucas de , Silva Lourinaldo Chateaubriand Magalhães da , Freire Márcio Rolemberg , Muniz Max Breno Bezerra , Junior Moisés Euclides Da Silva , Araujo Filho Oscar Olimpio de
Published: July 2024

Objetivo: O presente estudo analisa o processamento da liga de alumínio formada pelo sistema Al-Cu, nomeada AA2219 via técnicas de metalurgia do pó (MP) utilizando a rota de compactação uniaxial a frio e sinterização por fase sólida. Métodos: Para isso foram utilizados pós elementares processados por moagem de alta energia pelos períodos de uma, duas e quatro horas. Deu-se início ao processo de fabricação da liga com a compressão uniaxial a frio dos pós moídos em etapa anterior, onde as amostras que passaram pela etapa de compressão foram submetidas a sinterização em um forno à vácuo. Em seguida, as amostras passaram por caraterização microestrutural através das técnicas de Microscopia Ótica (MO) e microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV) e espectroscopia de energia dispersiva (EDS). Já para avaliar e comparar a microdureza das amostras foi realizado o ensaio de microdureza Vickers. Resultados: A caraterização das amostras mostra microestruturas heterogêneas, porém resultados obtidos do ensaio de microdureza evidenciam os corpos de prova sinterizados obtiveram um valor de dureza aceitável para a liga em estudo, apesar de apresentarem um elevado desvio padrão, que se justifica devido a elevada porosidade do material. Conclusão: De maneira geral a técnica de fabricação por MP produziu um material com boas características, e com dureza aceitável, para a liga estudada.
MATERIAIS PARA GERAÇÃO DE ENERGIA: BALANÇOS DE MOVIMENTO, MASSA E ENERGIA NA CONVERSÃO ENERGÉTICA DE BIOMASSA
Authors: Souza Walisson de Jesus , Dossi Fábio Cleisto Alda , Santos Adriana de Jesus , Santos Cochiran Pereira dos
Published: July 2024

Este estudo abordou os principais processos de conversão energética de biomassa: combustão, gaseificação, pirólise e fermentação, destacando suas características e desafios específicos. Na combustão da celulose, por exemplo, foram obtidos valores como 3,70 mol de CO2 e 3,08 mol de H2O produzidos, com uma liberação de energia de -1726,90 kJ ao queimar 100 gramas de celulose. A combustão foi reconhecida pela alta eficiência energética, apesar das significativas emissões de CO2 e poluentes. Na gaseificação da celulose, observou-se a produção de 3,70 mol de CO e 3,70 mol de H2, com uma energia envolvida de -487,35 kJ, destacando sua capacidade de gerar syngas para eletricidade e produtos químicos, embora exigindo processos complexos de limpeza de gases. Na pirólise da celulose, foram registrados 3,70 mol de C e 3,08 mol de H2O produzidos, com uma energia envolvida de syngas de 18 kJ, destacando-se pela produção de bio-óleo e gases com menores emissões de CO2, mas requerendo controle preciso de temperatura. Por fim, na fermentação da glicose, foram produzidos 1,11 mol de etanol e 1,11 mol de CO2, com uma energia envolvida de 38,35 kJ, evidenciando os desafios da sensibilidade a contaminantes e da purificação do produto final na produção de biocombustíveis como o etanol. A otimização dos processos de conversão de biomassa é crucial para maximizar a eficiência energética, reduzir emissões e integrar biorrefinarias. O desenvolvimento de catalisadores avançados, a seleção de matéria-prima e tecnologias de captura de carbono são fundamentais. A integração de monitoramento em tempo real e modelagem computacional melhora a eficiência operacional e econômica. Este estudo reforça a importância desses processos para produção sustentável de energia e produtos químicos, destacando a necessidade contínua de pesquisa para otimizar benefícios econômicos, ambientais e sociais, com o software Python sendo crucial para modelagem e simulação.
Development of Physical Science Teaching Module Phase F for Physically Impaired Students in Special Schools on the Nature of Light
Authors: Sujono Adelia Putri , Umar Masri Kudrat , Odja Abdul Haris
Published: July 2024

This research aims to produce a pahse F science teaching module for disabled students that is feasible, practical, and effective. This research was carried out at the Bone Bolango state special school. This type of research is research and development using the ADDIE development model and was tested in class XII of Bonebolango State Special School. The results of this research show that: 1) the teaching module developed is very valid and suitable for use in learning, 2) the teaching module developed is practically determined by the average percentage of learning implementation during three meetings which reached 88,36% with very good criteria, 3) effective teaching modules developed are determined through the average percentage of student activity during three meetings which reached 79,16% with very good criteria, and the completeness of student learning outcomes is determined through the average percentage of cognitive assessments during three meetings which reached 88,89% with very good criteria, the average percentage of attitude assessments during three meetings which reached 79,16% with very good criteria, and the average percentage of skills assessments during three meetings which reached 82,77% with very good criteria good based on this, it can be concluded that the physics teaching module on the nature of light material developed is feasible, practical and effective.
Interactive Demonstration Learning to Improve Conceptual Understanding of Class VII Students Materials: Temperature, Heat, and Expansion
Authors: Trisni Nurila , Syahril Syahril , Fauza Naila
Published: July 2024

Science education is a great opportunity to create a generation of people with character. In classroom learning, there are several obstacles so that students do not optimally accept concepts or experience misconceptions. This situation proves that a learning process is needed that can overcome this problem. The aim achieved is to determine the effect of learning using the Interactive Demonstration model on increasing understanding of the concepts of class VII students in the material of temperature, heat, and expansion. Quasi Experiment is the method used and the design refers to Posttest-Only Control Design. The posttest results for conceptual understanding in the experimental class were superior to the results obtained in the control class. So, we can conclude that understanding the concepts of temperature, heat, and expansion in class VII at SMPN 20 Pekanbaru can be improved through the application of the Interactive Demonstration model.
The Learning Revolution: Investigating the Use of Technology to Explore Mathematical Physics Learning
Authors: Pratiwi Hestiningtyas Yuli , Sujito Sujito , Sunardi Sunardi , Sayyadi Muhammad
Published: July 2024

This research aims to describe how future physics teachers study mathematical physics. Physics students must master the existing material in Mathematical Physics mathematics well, thoroughly, and collaboratively. Data collection is done with lifts, interviews, and observations. Research results show that the learning process needs to be more contextual, less applicative, and highly dominant in mathematics; less attractive teaching materials and lectures are not designed to equip students with the skills of the 21st century. Learning does not use technology to help students solve physical problems. It causes students difficulty learning mathematical methods in physics. In fact, in learning mathematical physics, students must master the concepts related to mathematics tools and their applications. The ability to mathematically solve problems of physical phenomena and give meaning to mathematical models is built into critical aspects of learning. The solution that can be applied is to apply technology using software applications like Maple.
Integrated Landslide Mitigation Model in Physics Concept of Environmental Pollution and Alternative Energy
Authors: Maulana Yudi , Shabrina Annida Nurul , Karyadi Bhakti
Published: July 2024

This research integrates landslide disaster mitigation into physics education, with a focus on environmental pollution and alternative energy for high school students. The research aims to address the frequent landslides in Indonesia, particularly in Central Bengkulu Regency, which can cause significant disruptions. The objective is to develop a model for integrating disaster mitigation into physics education at MAN Insan Cendekia Central Bengkulu. The research method employed is Research and Development (R&D) using the 4D model, limited to the design stage. The research subjects were students in class XI-1 specializing in Physics at MAN Insan Cendekia. The analysis of disaster potential in Central Bengkulu indicates a need for disaster mitigation education. The Butterfly Webbed Concept Map was developed to integrate physics material with disaster mitigation education. It provides a visual representation of the relationship between environmental pollution, alternative energy, resource utilization, and landslide disaster mitigation. This integration can be applied in physics learning for disaster risk awareness for students.
Development and Validation of Critical Thinking Skills Instruments on Mechanical Waves for Senior High School Student
Authors: Azizah Fithrotul , Handayanto Supriyono Koes , Wisodo Hari , Fernando Trio Junira , Kuswanto Kuswanto , Prani Anisak Intan Eka
Published: July 2024

The importance of developing critical thinking skills (CTS) is claimed as a major education purpose.  Recently, enhanced learning has been conducted to promote students' CTS through study on certain topics (specific domains). Based on the numerous studies on CTS, there is a need for an assessment instrument to test students' CTS.  This research aims to develop an instrument of CTC on mechanical wave topics for senior high school students. The instrument consists of seven essay items and one forced-choice item, tested to 45 students of class XI high school in Malang. The validity test obtained an excellent Cronbach alpha coefficient of ? = 0.717. There was also an inter-rater test for the scoring guideline reliability using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) with high reliability results (? = 0.909). The results of this study indicate that the instrument is qualified to be used to measure students' CTS on mechanical wave topics.
Implementation of Small Term Reduction in Taylor Series in Analytical Physics Problem
Authors: Simangunsong Sumihar
Published: July 2024

This research is motivated by the low ability of students to apply mathematical solving methods to analytic physics. The purpose of this research is to show the implementation of small term reduction in Taylor series on analytic physics problems. The analytical physics material described in this study is the pendulum oscillation material, heat conduction and the perturbation quantum state function. This research method involves a mathematical derivation of the Taylor series formation. The epicenter of the idea of reducing the Taylor series in this study is the use of very small terms in the Taylor series to reduce terms with values reaching towards zero, namely the third term and the fourth term. This small term reduction method is spread into problems of mechanics, oscillations, heat, electricity, magnetism and quantum mechanics. The results of this study show that after using the small term reduction principle, the equations to be solved are like first-order and second-order differential equations. By solving these equations we get a variable physical quantity.
Adaptasi Masyarakat Suku Bajo Terhadap Bencana Di Desa Torsiaje, Kecamatan Popayato, Kabupaten Pohuwato, Provinsi Gorontalo
Authors: Rubama Felix , Hasan Idris , Limonu Rusli , Lihawa Fitryane , Sune Nawir
Published: July 2024

Suku Bangsa Bajo tidak dapat terpisahkan dari laut. Laut bagi orang Bajo merupakan cermin kehidupan masa lalu, kekinian, dan harapan masa depan. Oleh karena itu, Suku Bangsa Bajo disebut sebagai suku laut karena mereka sangat bergantung pada laut untuk pemenuhan kebutuhan sehari-hari, Untuk itu masyarakat suku bajo rentan akan bncana khususnya gempa Tsunami.  Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk melihat adaptasi masyarakat terhadap bencana, Penelitian ini mengunakan metode analisis deskriptif kuantitatif hasil menunjuhkan bahwa Tingkat Pendidikan didominasi oleh masyarakat lulusan SD sederajat, Desa Torsiaje didominasi oleh pekerja dalam sektor nelayan , Masyarakat suku Bajo yang ada di Desa torsiaje tidak memilki pengetahuan tentang tsunami dan gempa bumi. masyarakat hanya memilki mitos tentang gempa bumi. Suku bajo melihat sudut pandang tanda-tanda terjadi gempa bumi dengan bermunculan ikan-ikan dipermukaan air selaian itu Kearifan lokal masyarakat Suku Bajo merupakan aset berharga dalam menghadapi bencana alam. Penggunaan rumah panggung, pengelolaan lingkungan yang bijaksana, dan pengetahuan tradisional tentang tanda-tanda alam adalah contoh nyata dari adaptasi yang telah terbukti efektif.
Kearifan Lokal Masyarakat Desa Torosiaje Terhadap Budidaya Perikanan
Authors: Mayang Rohmila , Sutiah Endang , Nurfaika Nurfaika , Melo Ramla Hartini
Published: July 2024

Penelitian ini mengkaji kearifan lokal masyarakat Desa Torosiaje dalam budidaya perikanan yang berkelanjutan. Tujuan utama dari penelitian ini adalah untuk menggambarkan peran kearifan lokal dalam mengelola dan mengembangkan sumber daya perikanan di Desa Torosiaje. Metode yang digunakan adalah observasional deskriptif dengan pendekatan kualitatif fenomenologis. Pengumpulan data dilakukan melalui wawancara mendalam, observasi, dan dokumentasi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa masyarakat Desa Torosiaje memiliki pengetahuan lokal yang mendalam mengenai pengelolaan ekosistem perairan dan penggunaan alat tangkap tradisional yang ramah lingkungan. Sistem zonasi perairan dan budidaya ramah lingkungan menjadi bagian integral dalam strategi pengelolaan sumber daya perikanan yang berkelanjutan. Pemberdayaan masyarakat melalui pendidikan, pelatihan, dan partisipasi aktif dalam pengambilan keputusan juga berkontribusi signifikan terhadap keberhasilan pengelolaan budidaya perikanan. Kesimpulannya, kearifan lokal Desa Torosiaje berperan penting dalam menjaga keseimbangan ekosistem perairan dan meningkatkan kesejahteraan ekonomi masyarakat.
Enhancing Image Segmentation Accuracy using Deep Learning Techniques
Authors: Kiran Sree Pokkuluri  , Usha Devi N. S.S.S.N  , Martin Margala  , Prasun Chakrabarti
Published: July 2024

Accurate image segmentation is a fundamental task in computer vision with applications spanning from medical imaging to autonomous vehicles. This research paper introduces a novel approach for enhancing image segmentation accuracy through the utilization of deep learning techniques. Traditional segmentation methods often struggle with complex scenes, object occlusions, and varying lighting conditions. Leveraging the power of deep learning, we propose a custom convolutional neural network (CNN) architecture named DLwCA. This architecture incorporates advanced features such as residual connections and attention mechanisms to capture fine-grained details and contextual information. The proposed approach is evaluated on benchmark datasets and compared against established methods. Quantitative metrics including Intersection over Union (IoU) and F1-score demonstrate a significant improvement in segmentation accuracy. Our approach showcases a clear potential to revolutionize image segmentation tasks, offering precise delineation of object boundaries even in challenging scenarios. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on leveraging deep learning for advanced computer vision tasks and establishes a strong foundation for further research in the domain of image segmentation techniques. We have compared our work with the existing literature with various parameters like F1 Score, precision and accuracy. The proposed method reports an average accuracy of 91.9% and perming better than some baseline models.
A Systematic Literature Review: Implementing Building Information Modelling (BIM) for TVET Educators in Malaysia
Authors: Nurul Hazalia Ismail  , Ernawati Mustafa Kamal  , Muhammad Fahmi Mohd Fizal
Published: July 2024

Building Information Modelling (BIM) education hinges on cooperation with the industry, universities, technical colleges, and communities by allowing practice and specialisation in training. This requires studying specific issues in implementing BIM for TVET educators in Malaysia to unveil the current status of BIM in the profession. The Malaysian TVET Institutions are responding to these barriers by implementing BIM with a curriculum design. The collaboration extends to multiple professionals in the industries, mainly by providing adequate education and training to their educators. With this objective, a systematic literature search of the Web of Science (WoS) and SCOPUS databases was carried out using the Reporting Standards for the Systematic Evidence Synthesis (ROSES) method. Based on keywords, abstracts, and full article content, inclusion and exclusion criteria were chosen to thoroughly study 14 articles, analyse their integration and evaluation methods, and derive findings. The findings serve as empirical evidence to determine the barriers to implementing BIM among educators in Malaysia TVET institutions. The barriers such as change management, transitioning from traditional educational paradigms, faculty expertise gaps, misalignment with industry needs, and limited exposure to real-world working environments need to be addressed. The paper concluded by recommending strategies for implementing BIM among educators. The outlined strategies can help in the decision-making process for BIM implementation in Malaysian TVET Institutions, thus helping educators mitigate barriers and prepare effective strategies for BIM implementation.
Texto para Discussão 2994
Authors: Melo Valdir
Published: July 2024

É útil distinguir entre pelo menos quatro principais facetas da burocracia. A administração burocrática tem várias características gerais, tais como profissionalismo dos funcionários, compartimentalização interna e complexo sistema de registros. Os procedimentos burocráticos buscam eficácia aplicando o princípio da divisão do trabalho, bem como desvencilhando-se das desvantagens utilitárias que surgem da espontaneidade e das iniciativas informais entre pessoas. No que concerne a um Estado, é viável tornar flexíveis muitos procedimentos administrativos, bem como desburocratizar extensamente (isto é, extinguir disfunções); mas isto requer dedicação de recursos ao longo de anos e de mandatos governamentais.
SMART FARM: Crop, Fertiliser and Disease Management through Machine Learning and Deep Learning Applications
Authors: Bhavika Muttareddy , Ashwanth Pannala , Abhishek Valaboju
Published: July 2024

In the environment of global challenges similar as population growth, climate change, and resource constraints, the agrarian sector faces significant pressure to enhance productivity and sustainability. This paper explores the conception and perpetration of a Smart Farm, which leverages advanced technologies similar as the Internet of effects( IoT), artificial intelligence( AI), big data analytics, and robotics to optimize husbandry practices. The Smart husbandry, automated ministry, and data driven decision-making processes to increase crop yields, reduce resource consumption, and ameliorate environmental stewardship. Case studies punctuate successful operations of these technologies in colorful husbandry surrounds, demonstrating significant advancements in effectiveness and sustainability. The findings emphasize the eventuality of Smart granges to transfigure traditional husbandry into a largely productive, flexible, and sustainable assiduity, able of meeting unborn food security demands.
On Kinematic Measurements of Self-gravity in Protoplanetary Disks
Authors: Andrews Sean M. , Teague Richard , Wirth Christopher P. , Huang Jane , Zhu Zhaohuan
Published: July 2024

Using controlled injection and recovery experiments, we devised an analysis prescription to assess the quality of dynamical measurements of protoplanetary disk gas masses based on resolved (CO) spectral line data, given observational limitations (resolution, sampling, noise), measurement bias, and ambiguities in the geometry and physical conditions. With sufficient data quality, this approach performed well for massive disks (M
d/M
* = 0.1): we inferred M
d posteriors that recovered the true values with little bias (≲20%) and uncertainties within a factor of two (2σ). The gas surface density profiles for such cases are recovered with remarkable fidelity. Some experimentation indicates that this approach becomes insensitive when M
d/M
* ≲ 5%, due primarily to degeneracies in the surface density profile parameters. Including multiple lines that probe different vertical layers, along with some improvements in the associated tools, might push that practical boundary down by another factor of ∼two in ideal scenarios. We also demonstrated this analysis approach using archival Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array observations of the MWC 480 disk: we measured

M

d

=

0.13

−
0.01

+
0.04

M

⊙

(corresponding to M
d/M
* = 7% ± 1%) and identified kinematic substructures consistent with surface density gaps around 65 and 135 au. Overall, this (and similar work) suggests that these dynamical measurements offer powerful new constraints with sufficient accuracy and precision to quantify gas masses and surface densities at the high end of the M
d/M
* distribution, and therefore can serve as key benchmarks for detailed thermo-chemical modeling. We address some prospects for improvements, and discuss various caveats and limitations to guide future work.
Finding Passive Galaxies in H i-MaNGA: The Impact of Star Formation Rate Indicator
Authors: Salem Nora , Masters Karen L. , Stark David V. , Sharma Anubhav
Published: July 2024

H i-rich galaxies typically have high star formation rates (SFRs), but there exist interesting H i-rich and low star-forming galaxies. Previous work on a sample of these galaxies identified from H i-Mapping Nearby Galaxies at Apache Point Observatory (MaNGA) (H i follow-up to the MaNGA survey) using an infrared indicator of specific-SFR (sSFR; namely W2 − W3 < 2) could find no single physical process to explain their unusual behavior. The method by which galaxies are identified as low sSFR may be important in this conclusion. In this Research Note, we explore how an H i-rich, low sSFR sample of H i-MaNGA galaxies differs using Hα, single stellar population, and ultraviolet estimators of SFR. We find that samples are statistically similar to each other so long as W2 − W3 < 2 is interpreted as corresponding to sSFR < 10−11.15 yr−1.
Burden and factors associated with occupational tuberculosis infection among high-risk workers in Lahore District, Pakistan
Authors: Jabeen Chanda , Mushtaq Muhammad Hassan , Ali Khan Jawaria , Umbreen Gulshan , Saeed Muhammad Saqib , Sadiq Shakera , Maqsood Rubab , Rashid Hamad Bin , Asif Muhammad , Iqbal Khalid , Ahmad Sohail , Chaudhry Mamoona
Published: July 2024

Introduction: The main objective of the study was to estimate the burden of occupational tuberculosis infection in high-risk occupational workers and to identify risk factors associated with the prevalence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC).
Methodology: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among high-risk occupational workers including veterinarians, abattoir workers, animal handlers, livestock farmers, and microbiology laboratory workers. Sputum samples were collected from 100 participants and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests were done to diagnose tuberculosis (TB) infection. Data on potential risk factors was collected in a pre-designed questionnaire. The MTBC prevalence ratio was estimated. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify risk factors and the crude odds ratio (OR) was calculated.
Results: Among the 100 enrolled high risk occupational workers, the prevalence of MTBC was 46% (95% CI: 35.98–56.25). Living in a joint family (OR 3.85, 95% CI: 1.58–9.37), and use of unpasteurized milk (OR 3.42, 95% CI: 1.4–8.39), were significantly associated with MTBC infection.
Conclusions: Tuberculosis is a significant health burden in high-risk occupational groups, especially animal handlers and laboratory workers, in Lahore, Pakistan. The study also emphasized the need for formal work-related training, and enhanced zoonotic TB awareness among occupational workers.
Evaluation of health literacy levels and COVID-19 awareness among tuberculosis patients
Authors: Öztürk Emiral Gülsüm , Musaonbaşıoğlu Seher , Çevik Hüsna Sarıca , Kalaycıoğlu Seda , Emiral Emrah , Bulut Yunus Emre , Şimşek Asiye Çiğdem
Published: July 2024

Introduction: For Tuberculosis (TB) and COVID-19 infections, whose transmission modes and preventive measures are similar, compliance with preventive measures and treatment is closely related to Health Literacy (HL) levels. This study aimed to evaluate the HL levels, and COVID-19 awareness of TB patients treated and followed up in TB Dispensaries serving under the Çankaya District Health Directorate of Ankara Province.
Methodology: A questionnaire including socio-demographic characteristics, COVID-19 knowledge level questions, and Health literacy scale-European union-Q16 questions were applied face-to-face to the registered TB patients. Mann-Whitney U and Spearman Correlation tests were used in the analysis.
Results: The mean age of the 107 participants (response rate: 89.1%) was 48.4 years; 42.1% were women. 56.5% of the patients were newly diagnosed, and 11.1% had resistant TB. 43.5% of the participants have had COVID-19; 23.1% thought they had disruptions in their TB treatment period due to the pandemic. The HL level of 23.1% was adequate. There was a moderate positive correlation between the HL scale score and the COVID-19 knowledge level questions (r = 0.468; p < 0.001). COVID-19 knowledge level was higher in those with adequate HL levels (p < 0.001).
Conclusions: The higher level of knowledge about COVID-19 in TB patients with sufficient HL levels suggests the importance of increasing the HL order in the effective fight against the pandemic and possible new outbreaks.
Prevalence and potential impact of human pegivirus-1 on HIV-1 disease progression among Indian PLHIV
Authors: Alex Diviya , Steve Runal J , Ramalingam Veena V , Demosthenes John P , Vijayalakshmi Gopinathan , Ghale Ben C , Rupali Priscilla , Varghese George M , Daniel Dolly , Rebekah Grace , Fletcher Gnanadurai J , Abraham Priya , Kannangai Rajesh
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Human pegivirus-1 (HPgV-1) influences the pathogenesis and outcome of viral infections. We investigated the prevalence and impact of HPgV-1 due to the paucity of studies on Indian people living with HIV (PLHIV).
Methodology: Samples were collected from 347 treatment-naïve PLHIV; and 100 blood donors negative for HIV, HBV, and HCV. CD4+ T-cell and HIV-1 viral load were measured using flow-cytometry and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), respectively. HPgV-1 was quantified and genotyped by qPCR and Sanger sequencing, respectively.
Results: HPgV-1 viremia in PLHIV and controls was 11% (38/347) and 1% (1/100), respectively. We found HPgV-1 genotype-2a in PLHIV and genotype-2b in controls. Male preponderance was seen in HIV-1 mono-infection and co-infection groups (166 vs. 143 and 33 vs. 5; p < 0.0001). The peak prevalence of HPgV-1 was at 31–50 years (p = 0.02). CD4+ T-cell count (245.5 vs. 240; p = 0.59) and HIV-1 log viral load (4.7 vs. 4.9; p = 0.50) were not significantly different between the HIV-1 mono-infected and coinfected individuals. However, a direct correlation existed between HpgV-1 viral load and CD4+ T-cell count (r = 0.27, p = 0.05) and an inverse correlation with HIV-1 viral load (r = -0.21, p = 0.10).
Conclusions: This is the first study in India to estimate the HPgV-1 prevalence in PLHIV with the predominance of genotype-2a. HPgV-1 viremia had a moderate impact on CD4+ T-cells and HIV-1 viral load, which requires a longitudinal study to identify the beneficial influence on HIV-1 disease progression and outcome.