bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Quantum-Classical Method Applied to Material Design: Photochromic Materials Optimization for Photopharmacology Applications
Authors: Gao Qi , Sugawara Michihiko , Nation Paul D. , Kobayashi Takao , Ohnishi Yu-ya , Tezuka Hiroyuki , Yamamoto Naoki
Published: November 2024

The integration of quantum chemistry, machine learning, and optimization calculations is expected to accelerate materials discovery by making large chemical spaces amenable to computational study, a challenging task for classical computers. In this study, we develop a quantum-classical computing scheme involving the computational-basis variational quantum deflation (cVQD) method for calculating the excited states of a general classical Hamiltonian, such as an Ising Hamiltonian. We apply this scheme to the practical use case of generating photochromic diarylethene (DAE) derivatives for photopharmacology applications. Using a dataset of 384 DAE derivatives from quantum chemistry calculation results, we show that machine learning can accurately predict the wavelength of maximum absorbance,

λ
max

, of 4,096 DAE derivatives. After screening over 4,096 molecules using the computing scheme, we identified 5 DAE candidates that have important applications in photopharmacology. In detail, a 12-qubit cVQD calculation provides the ground state and 4 excited states of an Ising Hamiltonian corresponding to DAE candidates possessing large

λ
max

. On a quantum simulator, results are found to be in excellent agreement with those obtained by an exact eigensolver. Utilizing error suppression and mitigation techniques, cVQD on a real quantum device produces results with accuracy comparable to calculations on the simulator. Finally, we show that quantum chemistry calculations for the DAE candidates provides a path to achieving large

λ
max

and oscillator strengths by means of the molecular engineering of DAE derivatives.
Knowledge Mapping of Cloud-Aerosol LIDAR and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observations Aerosol Research: A Visual Analysis Using CiteSpace
Authors: Hu Chengyu , Zhang Rui , Lim Hwee San , Zhang Yuanjun , Du Huan
Published: November 2024

The Cloud-Aerosol LIDAR and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observations (CALIPSO) satellite was launched in 2006 and concluded its mission in August 2023 after 17 years of dedicated service. This study conducted a bibliometric analysis on aerosol research using data from CALIPSO throughout its operational lifespan. The literature was organized into three primary categories: aerosol radiation characteristics and types, the spatiotemporal distribution of aerosols, and the spatial heterogeneity and driving factors. The software CiteSpace was used to analyze 2,131 research articles using data from CALIPSO to discern marked factors including keywords, research focal points, authors, journals, and affiliated institutions. The relationships among these factors were mapped to visualize past and future trends in this research domain. This study combined bibliometric analysis with a systematic literature review to present a comprehensive overview of how CALIPSO facilitated advances in aerosol research.
Some Unsolved Questions about the Early Differentiation of the Moon
Authors: Gu Yuantao , Hui Hejiu , Liu Yun , Zhang Chi , Zhang Jinhai , Wang Tao , Zhang Nan , Xu Lin , Lin Yangting
Published: November 2024

The analyses of returned samples and data from in situ and remote sensing observations have substantially advanced our understanding of the lunar internal structure since the Apollo era. Previous studies have confirmed that the Moon resembles a terrestrial planet with a layered core–mantle–crust structure, which formed in the early lunar differentiation initialized by a magma ocean. The important results on the early differentiation of the Moon derived from the ongoing analyses of lunar samples and geophysical data, and experimental studies with different initial conditions, are reviewed in this study. The outstanding problems in the early lunar differentiation, including the formation of the lunar anorthositic crust, the origin of lunar dichotomy, lunar mantle convection, the lunar interior interface, and the chronology of early differentiation, are highlighted and summarized. These unsolved questions may provide research directions for future studies of early differentiation of the Moon. The upcoming lunar exploration missions will return new samples and geophysical data. Comprehensive analyses of the returned samples and the geophysical data (seismology, gravity and topography, and crustal magnetic field), coupled with experimental studies, could provide important results to answer the unsolved questions and constrain the early lunar differentiation.
Quality of the systematic reviews in cochrane multiple sclerosis related articles
Authors: Zeynalzadeh Masoud , Mahdavi Nasim , Atayi Morteza , Salehi-Pourmehr Hanieh , Hajebrahimi Sakineh
Published: November 2024

Introduction: To enhance the assessment of the systematic reviews and meta-analyses performed by the Cochrane Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Group. Methods: Our study was conducted on 57 systematic reviews and meta-analyses related to MS, published by the Cochrane database until July 2023. Results: We found that the most encountered risk of bias was the low-risk domain, associated with Selective Reporting (data reporting), and followed by an unclear outcome for Allocation Concealment (selection bias). In contrast, Blinding of Participants and Personnel (performance bias) showed the highest risk of bias. Also, we concluded that up to 2015, the most prevalent risk of bias was ‘low outcome’ for Selective Reporting (data reporting). However, from 2016 till 2023, the most common risk of bias shifted to ‘low outcome’ for Random Sequence Generation (selection bias). Conclusion: Despite significant enhancements in improving the quality of studies, there is still a far way to achieve the ideal quality.
Investigating the frequency and intensity of menopausal symptoms and contributing factors in postmenopausal women in a Middle Eastern Nation
Authors: Taziki Melika , Arab Borzu Zahra , Zarvekanloo Soudabeh , Jahanfar Shayesteh , Rahimi Zahra , Shirzadi Shayesteh
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Due to the hormonal changes that occur during the menopause period, postmenopausal women (PMW) experience symptoms that can affect their quality of life. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of menopausal symptoms and its related factors in Iranian PMW. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a total number of 300 participants from Neyshabur health centers were recruited, using stratified random sampling in 2022. Data were collected using the demographic characteristics and Menopause Rating Scales. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation test, and stepwise regression analysis were employed for data analysis using SPSS software version 22. Results: The mean (standard deviation) age of menopause was 49.4 (3.3). The most common menopausal symptoms were muscle or joint pain 239 (79.7%), hot flashes/sweating 232(77.3%), and anxiety 219 (73%), and sexual problems 214 (71.3%). Independent predictors of menopausal symptoms were: the spouse’s education level for physiological and total menopausal symptoms; chronic diseases for somatic total menopausal symptoms; age, economic status, and the number of children for uranological menopausal symptoms; and family structure for physiological menopausal symptoms (P<0.05). Conclusion: Women education about menopause, including its associated symptoms and the underlying factors influencing symptomatology, is essential for enhancing their quality of life both during and after this transitional phase. Additionally, providing them with information on effective strategies and interventions for mitigating and managing menopausal symptoms can significantly contribute to improving women’s overall well-being during this life stage.
The association of serum phospholipids levels with chronic kidney disease: A systematic review of observational studies
Authors: Shahveghar Asl Zahra , Ghalichi Faezeh , Badpeyma Mohadeseh , Ghoreishi Zohreh
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects the levels of various metabolites, which may be associated with pathogenesis of chronic diseases. This study aimed to indicate the association between CKD and changes in the levels of phospholipids. Methods: This systematic review considered the PRISMA guidelines for reporting the results. We searched the databases MEDLINE (via PubMed), Scopus, Web of Sciences and Google Scholar until June 2023. Case-control and cross-sectional studies investigated the relationship between CKD and alterations of serum levels of phospholipids. We determined the quality of the articles using the modified Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS) for cross-sectional studies and the NOS scale for case-control studies. Results: A total of 28977 articles were included. One hundred and fifty duplicated articles were removed, 28827 studies were excluded, 343 full-text articles were reviewed and sixteen studies were included at the end. The studies demonstrated a significant association between serum levels of total phospholipids (TPLs), phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), phosphatidylserine (PS), phosphatidylinositol (PI), lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LPE), phosphatidic acid (PA) and plasmalogen with renal diseases. Conclusion: Phospholipids levels are associated with the kidney diseases. It is important to identify non-invasive ways to diagnose biological risk factors in patients with renal damages, so they can be targeted for early treatment. The included studies reported significant alteration of phospholipids levels in CKD.
THE IMPACT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON INFLATION: THE CASE OF ASEAN-6 ECONOMIES
Authors: Lamphounsab Kenevongphachanh  , Inta Chanthavong  , Souvanthone Douangphachanh  , Nguyen Thi Thu Huong  , Phoudthavong Sengsouriya
Published: November 2024

The COVID-19 outbreak has significantly impacted the economies and financial systems of ASEAN countries, particularly the ASEAN-6. These nations are struggling with the virus’s spread and assessing its economic consequences. The pandemic has halted globaleconomic progress due to financial difficulties. Completing this impact assessment is crucial for revitalizing the ASEAN-6 economies and understanding the effects of the pandemic on fiscal strategies and society. This study highlights key factors such as policy rate (PR), gross domestic product (GDP), money supply (MS), and exchange rate (ER), all of which drive inflation. The empirical model utilizes a panel data regression model and uses time-series data from 2000 to 2022. Rising consumer exposure during the pandemic is linked to higher prices for goods and services in the region, contributing to inflationary pressures. A new challenge has emerged, requiring collaboration among ASEAN countries to control inflation effectively. Governments have implemented various strategies,focusing on interest rates and monetary policies to alleviate the economic effects of COVID-19. These efforts include managing the impact on the consumer price index (CPI) to ensure economic stability and prevent excessive inflation. The pandemic has created inflationary pressures due to changes in currency rates and government policy rates. The study’s findings offer valuable insightsfor the future development of financial policies in ASEAN-6 countries, helping them navigate inflation and stabilize their economies moving forward.
STUDY ON THE PRODUCTION OF STRONG ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE FROM JACKFRUIT FLESH AND SEEDS (Artocarpus Heterophyllus)
Authors: Tran Duc Duy  , Nguyen Tran Bao Chau
Published: November 2024

Raw materials for strong alcoholic beverage fermentation are usually grains with high starch content such as regular rice, sticky rice, brown rice, corn, rice sprouts, and cassava. Nowadays, society is increasingly developing, human life is becoming enhanced. Therefore,people’s demand for alcohol requires newness and strict quality. Vietnam is the land of many tropical fruits- a rich source of raw materials for researching and producing fruit-based strong alcoholic beverages. In this study, jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) flesh and boiled jackfruit seeds were used as raw materials to investigate the effects of factors including pretreatment of jackfruit seeds with enzymes, yeast/material ratio, initial dry matter concentration, pH, and fermentation time on alcoholic fermentation efficiency. This study forms the foundation for developing the technological process for producing jackfruit-based strong alcoholic beverages to introduce a new strong alcoholic beverage category for commercialization. Research results indicated that boiled jackfruit seeds treated with amylase enzyme exhibited soluble solids concentrations almost double that of samples without enzyme treatment. Accordingly, the added sugar content to the ingredient is reduced and fermentation time is shortened. Appropriate conditions forfermentation of jackfruit-based strong alcoholic beverage were yeast/raw material ratio of 1% (w/w), initial dry matter concentration of 24oBx, at pH 4.0, and fermentation time duration of 11 days.
Pengaruh Media Pembelajaran Prezi pada Model Pembelajaran Problem Based Learning terhadap Minat dan Hasil Belajar Peserta Didik Kelas X SMA Negeri 6 Balikpapan (Studi pada Materi Pokok Reaksi Reduksi dan Oksidasi)
Authors: Khairayunhisan Suci , Sugiarti Sugiarti , Salempa Pince
Published: November 2024

ABSTRAK
Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian eksperimen semu yang bertujuan untuk mengetahui Pengaruh Media Prezi pada Model Problem Based Learning terhadap Minat dan Hasil Belajar Peserta Didik Kelas X MIA SMA Negeri 6 Balikpapan pada materi pokok reaksi reduksi oksidasi. Hasil analisis statistik deskriptif diperoleh rata-rata minat belajar kelompok eksperimen 85,63 lebih tinggi dari kelompok control 80,91. Data minat belajar peserta didik menunjukkan bahwa data kelompok eksperimen dan kontrol berasal dari populasi yang homogen dan terdistribusi normal sehingga uji hipotesis yang digunakan adalah uji parametrik (uji-t dua sampel independen). Diperoleh pula rata-rata hasil belajar kelompok eksperimen 82,75 lebih tinggi dari kelompok kontrol yaitu 70,12. Hasil analisis statistik inferensial terhadap hasil belajar peserta didik menunjukkan bahwa data kelompok eksperimen dan kontrol berasal dari populasi yang homogen tetapi tidak terdistribusi normal sehingga uji hipotesis yang digunakan adalah uji Mann-Whitney. Berdasarkan hasil analisis tersebut dapat disimpulkan bahwa ada pengaruh media prezi pada model problem based learning terhadap minat dan hasil belajar peserta didik kelas X MIA SMA Negeri 6 Balikpapan studi pada materi pokok reaksi reduksi oksidasi.

ABSTRACT
This research is a quasi-experimental study that aims to determine the effect of Prezi Media on Problem Based Learning Models on the Interests and Learning Outcomes of Class X MIA Students of SMA Negeri 6 Balikpapan on the subject matter of oxidation reduction reactions. The results of statistical analysis obtained that the average learning interest of the experimental group was 85.63 which was higher than the control group was 80.91. The students' learning interest data showed that the experimental and control group data came from homogeneous and normally distributed populations so that the hypothesis test used was parametric test (two independent sample t-test) with = 0.05. The experimental group's average learning outcome was 82.75, which was higher than the control group, which was 70.12. The results of inferential statistical analysis on student learning outcomes showed that the experimental and control group data came from a homogeneous population but not normally distributed so that the hypothesis test used was the Mann-Whitney Based on the results of the analysis, it can be concluded that there is an influence of Prezi media on the problem based learning model on the interest and learning outcomes of students of class X MIA SMA Negeri 6 Balikpapan studying the subject matter of oxidation reduction reactions.
Assessing the Effect of Management Education on Vocational Behaviour
Authors:   Wits Business School University of the Witwatersrand, TABANE LEHLOHONOLO MAKHABANE , LEDIMO OPHILLIA ,   College of Economic and Management Sciences University of South Africa
Published: November 2024

This article presents a two-phase longitudinal study on the effect of management education on vocational behaviour, using Holland’s Typology to test Congruence as a moderator. The Phase 1 sample was 360 male and female South African MBA/MBL and Specialised Master’s university students; the Phase 2 sample was 103 students. The study was conducted in Gauteng Province, South Africa, with participants from Johannesburg and Pretoria. A within- and between-subjects design was employed. The vocational behaviour indicators were career decision-making self-efficacy, vocational identity, work identity, career commitment, and vocational interest/personality. Discriminant Function Analysis identified the Enterprising personality type as the best predictor of the Enterprising type and Social type environments in South Africa. Holland’s fourth working assumption was partially supported. Congruence did not predict vocational behaviour, but t-test results established significant within- and between-group differences in vocational behaviour due to Congruence. Incongruence was not always linked to negative outcomes; nor was Congruence always linked to positive outcomes. Management education did not change students’ vocational behaviour.
A Rare But Fatal Toxicity: Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor–Related Acquired Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura
Authors: Yikilmaz Aysun Senturk , Hernandez Cristhiam M. Rojas
Published: November 2024

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is characterized by thrombotic microangiopathy resulting from decreased activation of the von Willebrand factor–cleaving protease (ADAMTS13). TTP can cause organ damage and is often fatal if the appropriate treatment is not started immediately. Although primary immune TTP is the most common form of TTP, secondary immune etiologies, including complications from immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), have also been reported. ICIs are used as neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapy for metastatic and nonmetastatic solid tumors and hematologic cancers. ICIs stimulate the T-cell–mediated antitumor response, and the subsequent upregulation of the immune system can cause ICI-related adverse events (AEs). ICI-associated AEs may result in various hematological outcomes. Therefore, TTP, as a rare ICI-related AE, requires awareness. TTP has been mentioned as a rare ICIrAE in a few case reports. When using ICIs, the differential diagnosis of TTP should be considered if hemolytic anemia is accompanied by thrombocytopenia. Low ADAMTS13 activity can be used to diagnose TTP and support the need for plasma exchange. This review will assess the approach for ICI-related acquired TTP by scanning a limited number of reported case series in the literature. Low ADAMTS13 activity can be used to diagnose TTP and support the need for plasma exchange. Treatment in the cases that have been published includes combinations of rituximab and caplacizumab, corticosteroids, and plasma exchange. Furthermore, acquired TTP associated with ICI is encountered during the initial and subsequent cycles of ICI treatment. It is essential to detect ICI-related acquired TTP early, a highly fatal AE of ICIs, and to increase awareness of TTP, which will likely be encountered more frequently with the use of new ICI agents.
Is there any benefit from surgery for giant-dumbbell spinal tumors with prolonged paraplegia and joints contractures? a rare case report
Authors: Saekhu Mohamad , Susanto Eka , Ashari Samsul , Nugroho Setyowidi
Published: November 2024

The lack of clarity about the opportunities for significant neurologic improvement, coupled with the risk of severe postoperative complications, decompression surgery for patients with giant tumors in the cervical spine accompanied by long-lasting advanced neurological deficits places a heavy moral burden on surgeons. Here we report a three-year follow-up after surgery for an immense spinal neurofibroma in which the patient was bedridden for the past fifteen years. Our findings suggest surgery remains beneficial for patients without major postoperative complications.
Impact of land market development on financial stability and social security level in territorial communities
Authors:   West Ukrainian National University, Kostetskyі Volodymyr , Yazlyuk Borys , Butov Andrii ,   West Ukrainian National University
Published: November 2024

The article reveals the peculiarities of the development of the land market in Ukraine and its impact on the socio-economic state of society in general and territorial communities in particular. Understanding the impact of the land market on regional development is vital in today’s challenging environment. Land of various purposes, in the communal ownership of territorial communities, is one of the most essential resources in today’s conditions. Since the moratorium on the sale of agricultural land was lifted, the land market in Ukraine has significantly revived and provided new opportunities for the development of territories. Renting land plots, selling property, and privatizing can become important sources of income for communities. In particular, the community budgets receive the following taxes related to agricultural land: land tax, rent for communal land, a single tax for agricultural producers, and tax on the income of individuals received from the lease or sale of land plots. Thus, in modern conditions, the development of the land market has a significant impact on the prospects of financial stability and social security in territorial communities. Therefore, the proper development of the land market will contribute not only to the economy but also to the social development of the regions of the state. An assessment of the development possibilities of the domestic land market in the context of the socio-economic development of the territories was carried out. Unlocking the potential of the land market can lead to an influx of investments, improvement of transport and social infrastructure, creation of new jobs, improvement of people’s living standards, and promotion of regional development. The introduction of the land market and further legalization of land transactions are positive factors for developing land relations in the country. However, today, land reform is at the stage of establishing accurate and stable market relations in agricultural land circulation, which is an integral part of this process. Despite numerous restrictions, the land market is currently functioning, which, in turn, contributes to the creation of an attractive investment environment. Therefore, constructive steps for further developing Ukraine’s land market to increase the efficiency of this process and strengthen the financial stability and capacity of territorial communities have been substantiated. Keywords: land, land market, territorial communities, financial sustainability of territorial communities.
Adaptive Control Systems for Industrial Automation: Enhancing Flexibility
Authors: - Saiman Shetty
Published: November 2024

This paper explores the pivotal role of adaptive control systems in advancing industrial automation by enhancing operational flexibility. It addresses the current challenges asso- ciated with static control systems in accommodating dynamic and uncertain industrial environments. The study employs a comprehensive framework integrating real-time data analytics, machine learning algorithms, and feedback loop optimization to develop an adaptive control model. Key technologies, including neural networks and digital twin simulations, are harnessed to facilitate the system’s adaptability and scalability. The findings reveal significant improvements in operational efficiency, scalabil- ity, and responsiveness, demonstrating the potential of adaptive systems to dynamically adjust to varying process requirements and disturbances. These systems enable seamless integration of new automation technologies and rapid reconfiguration in response to changing production demands. Overall, the research underscores the strategic importance of adaptive control systems in fostering a responsive and efficient industrial automation landscape, aligning with the evolving demand for flexible and smart manufacturing solutions.
The Use of Gesticulation to Improve Esl Learner’s Understanding of Content Words in Writing
Authors: Madzlan Noor Alhusna , Sartho Rebecca Mary , Mohamed Mokhtar Mazlin
Published: November 2024

The present study aims to evaluate the effects of gesticulation on English as Second Language (ESL) learners’ understanding of content words in narrative writing. A mixed-method approach involving quantitative and qualitative data collection method was utilized in this study. Pre-test and post-test were used to collect quantitative data and interviews were used to collect qualitative data. This study was conducted among 40 Year Five students who struggled to write a narrative essay with suitable content words. They were chosen using convenience sampling and divided into twenty students in experimental and control groups respectively. Content words for three themes of narrative writing were taught using gesticulation for the experimental group, while the control group was taught content words using the traditional method of teaching. The pre-test and post-test data were analysed using an independent T-test whereas the interview data were analysed thematically. The findings showed that there are significant differences in the level of the learner’s understanding of content words in narrative writing based on pre-test and post-test results of the experimental group. The learners’ performance in narrative writing showed improvement in the post-test of experimental group. Moreover, the findings from the interview revealed that the learners have positive perceptions in using gesticulation to understand content words that helped them in narrative writing. The study implicates that the use of gesticulation can enhance the learners’ understanding of content words that improve their narrative writing.
A comparative study between Harriet Beecher Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin and Zhang Ailing’s love in a fallen city
Authors: Shaohua Shi , Gopal Revathi , Zamri Muhamad Lothfi , Hum Nunik Sugesti M.
Published: November 2024

Harriet Beecher Stowe and Zhang Ailing are two renowned female writers who enjoy highly comments in the history of female feminism literature. They are writing from their own experiences and female perspectives to awaken the females and common people to pursue personal happiness and freedom. Besides, they advocated to transfer feminist ideas into daily behaviors. Harriet Beecher Stowe’s advocation of abolishing slavery promoted the large-scale social thinking, echoing the abolition movements in Britain and France. Her feminist ideas not only broke the shackles from being male’s attachments of females, but also changing the weak and fragile images of females. What’s more important, she led the American society to rethink about slavery and female position. However, the Chinese female writer, Zhang Ailing, as one of the “Four Female Talents “her feminist ideas are still restricted to be a fancier attachment to males. The ultimate goal of females’ fighting and calculating lays on male for financial support again. From her masterpiece, Love in a Fallen City, the heroine still puts great efforts on entertaining males for material’s sake. From the spiritual level, females are still inferior to males, even with the strong and harsh words in the novel. The feminist ideas of Zhang Ailing represented the conflict and struggle of Chinese females of that era between feudal thoughts and modern thinkings. This essay explores the two female writers’ feminist ideas on comparative literary criticism. The similarities and differences between them were also identified through comparison between feminist ideas and leading figures of the novels.
Systematic Literature Review: Integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Teaching and Learning of Language
Authors: Kussin Haddi @ Junaidi , Megat Khalid Puteri Zarina , Sulaiman Sabariah , Abu Sufi Mohd Khairul , Chaniago Rizky Hafiz
Published: November 2024

This article presents a comprehensive analysis of the incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the field of language instruction and acquisition through a systematic evaluation of existing literature. The increasing prevalence of AI in diverse domains has generated significant interest in its possible utilization in the field of education. The evaluation commences by providing an overview of the methodology utilized, encompassing the search strategy, criteria for inclusion and exclusion, and the process of extracting data. An exhaustive examination of the chosen research uncovers fundamental patterns associated with the incorporation of artificial intelligence in language teaching. The aforementioned topics incorporate the advantages of artificial intelligence (AI) in language learning, including tailored learning experiences, improved language competency through AI-driven tools, heightened student motivation and involvement, immediate feedback and evaluation, and access to genuine language data and resources. Nevertheless, the review acknowledges the obstacles and constraints linked to AI in language teaching, encompassing ethical implications, apprehensions regarding job displacement, and the dependability of AI instruments. The review highlights the deficiencies in existing research and proposes avenues for future investigation, providing valuable perspectives on the possible influence of AI on language instruction and acquisition, and advising policymakers and educators on appropriate methods of integration.
Blended Learning Implementation for Language Learning in Remote Area after Covid-19 Outbreak: A Convergent Parallel Mixed-method Research Design
Authors: Yani Muhammad , Mohd Tahir Mohd Haniff , Ramli Ramli , Saputra Syahwil
Published: November 2024

Technology integration is now widely used in higher education contexts. It can foster teachers’ and students' motivation and engagement in the educational process. Blended learning combines conventional methods with technology-assisted learning, open online resources, and free emerging devices. This study aims to investigate EFL teachers’ motivation in implementing the Blended learning technique for language instruction. The research utilized a mixed-method approach (convergent parallel design) by designing the instruments of closed-ended questionnaires and semi-structured teachers’ interviews (QUAN and QUAL). This study was conducted at several educational institutions and 30 respondents were purposively assigned. The finding of this research indicated that the implementation is related to EFL teachers’ professional training, expertise, and needs. Besides, this technique can leverage teacher aptitudes in digital literacy that lead to a better learning environment and foster academic performance of the students. Pedagogical implications of the implementation of the blended learning approach are discussed and it provides insight to educators and practitioners a better understanding of technology integration in EFL settings, especially blended learning.
Relationship between Language Attitudes towards Task-Based Language Teaching and English Language Speaking Performance among Malaysian Polytechnic Students
Authors: Wong Tee Wei , Ismail Lilliati
Published: November 2024

Language attitude towards learning a second language is just as important as the language learning method they use. It is considered one of the essential factors which affect learners’ learning process. Despite receiving sustained academic attention from scholars, few studies have been devoted to investigating students’ language attitudes on task-based language teaching (TBLT) and its influence on students’ speaking performance. Hence, this study aimed to examine the relationship between students’ language attitudes towards TBLT and English language speaking performance. This study adopted a quasi-experimental research design. Thirty polytechnic students enrolled in the Communicative English II course participated in the study. An attitudinal questionnaire was used to gauge the students’ language attitudes towards the use of TBLT in enhancing their speaking performance and an oral presentation task was used to measure the students’ speaking performance. By using the data collected through the questionnaire and oral presentation scores, the relationship between students’ language attitudes towards TBLT and speaking performance was determined using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation. The findings of the study showed that students demonstrated positive attitudes toward the impact of TBLT on their speaking performance. A weak positive correlation was found between students’ language attitudes toward TBLT and English language speaking performance. The findings of the study have practical implications for improving teaching practices and provide insights into the use of TBLT for teaching speaking skills.
The Role of Technology in Enhancing Intercultural and Pragmatic Competencies in EFL Class
Authors: Ravindran Latha , Amini Mansour
Published: November 2024

There is a close relationship between language and culture, and a review of the literature indicates less attention is given to the enrichment of cross-cultural and pragmatic awareness in the classrooms. The role of culture in language learning is often overlooked in language classes. The notion of cultural competencies is often derived from English-speaking countries, and though students can learn from such a perspective, it does not provide a good model for developing their cultural and pragmatic competencies. Using students’ own cultural experiences would be a good way to enhance their cultural and pragmatic competencies. This investigation involves a qualitative approach, and the participants involved 10 EFL lecturers and 20 EFL students from China. Data was collected by using in-depth interviews, classroom observations, and field notes. The role of technology in enhancing these skills is highlighted in this study. The results indicated that the bidirectional approach of integrated language and cultural elements enhanced their pragmatic competence. The use of technology further promoted learner autonomy and independent learning. The study highlights the limitations of the unidirectional approach in language teaching and advocates a bidirectional approach to enhance pragmatic and cultural competencies, which can be ideal for EFL settings.
Relationship between English learning motivation and English proficiency: A Study of Chinese ethnic minority learners
Authors: Xincai Ye , Madzlan Noor Alhusna , Ying Liu
Published: November 2024

Language learning motivation plays a critical role in a successful language learning process. Research into foreign/second language learning motivation has been a focal point in the field of foreign/second language acquisition for long. Over the past twenty years, there has been a substantial body of research dedicated to motivation, conducted across various social and cultural contexts. These studies have played a crucial role in exploring the factors that impact learners’ motivation to acquire a foreign language, as well as in examining the intricate relationship between motivation and other facets of foreign language learning. Foreign language proficiency is seen as the ultimate aim of foreign language learning. Some studies have delved into the relationship between foreign language learning motivation and foreign language proficiency, and no agreement has been reached yet. Nonetheless, there exists a notable dearth of research concerning the relationship between English learning motivation and English language proficiency of Chinese ethnic minority learners who have minority language as native language, Mandarin as national language, and learn English as a foreign language. To address this gap, a quantitative study was undertaken to identify if there is relationship between English learning motivation and English proficiency among ethnic minority learners in rural China. Pearson correlation coefficients were performed on the data which were collected from English learner questionnaire and English proficiency test. The findings revealed that there is no relationship between the participants’ English learning motivation and English proficiency. The findings can be treated as evidence that high level of English learning motivation may not always contribute to good English proficiency. Researchers should concern more about motivation in relation to English proficiency. The results of this study provide implications for both policymakers and English educators in ethnic minority regions of China.
Looking for Russian – Tagalog Lexical and Grammatical Equivalents
Authors: Frolova Elena G.
Published: November 2024

Analysis of lexical and grammatical equivalents in different languages is an essential and necessary aspect of acquisition of command of a foreign language and translation as a type of speech activity. To do it properly a student must understand that distribution of various components of meaning in languages can differ and word by word translation can cause losses of information that should be compensated by some other means that can be both lexical and grammatical. The Tagalog and Russian languages often use various sets of constituents of meaning in words to describe the world around and the content expressed grammatically in one language can be expressed lexically in the other. The fact that Tagalog is one of the agglutinative languages while Russian is an inflectional language makes the process of translation even more complicated. This article is an attempt to show some differences and similarities in semantic and grammatical components in several groups of words in Tagalog and Russian. Understanding of these peculiarities of the languages can make translation easier for the students.
Effectiveness, safety, and patient-reported outcomes of treatment with bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide fixed dose combination in people living with HIV in Argentina: the BICTARG cohort
Authors: Cecchini Diego , Brizuela Martín , Seleme María Soledad , Mingrone María Verónica , Copertari Gastón , Bacelar Brenda , Mauas Romina , Bottaro Edgardo , Cassetti Isabel
Published: November 2024

Introduction. Real-world data on bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide (BIC/FTC/TAF) fixed-dose combination from resource-constrained settings like Latin America are limited. Material and methods. We conducted an observational retrospective cohort study of treatment-naive (TN, n=315) and treatment-experienced (TE, n= 2356) people living with HIV prescribed BIC/FTC/TAF in Argentina from 10/2019 to 12/2021, with 24 and 48-week follow-up data analyzed for virological suppression, persistence, safety, and metabolic parameters. Patient-reported outcomes were assessed via across-sectional online survey. Results. Baseline characteristics: median age 45 years, 72.2% male, 99.6% Hispanic/Latino ethnicity. Treatment per sistence at 48 weeks was 99.3% (TN) and 99.5% (TE). Virological suppression rates (<200/<50 copies/mL) at 24 weeks were 97.4/88% (TN) and 99/97% (TE). At 48 weeks were 100/92% (TN) and 99/97% (TE). In the TE group, triglycerides decreased with no other lipid changes. In TN, mild total/LDL/HDL cholesterol increases occurred. eGFR mildly decreased in both groups. The online survey (n=536) showed 91.5% reported no medication concerns. Median quality of life scores were 90 (TN) and 88 (TE). Most reported no self-care, activity, mobility, pain/discomfort, or anxiety/depression issues. Conclusions. BIC/FTC/TAF demonstrated high persistence, safety, virological efficacy, and favorable metabolic profile over 48 weeks. The cross-sectional survey indicated high treatment satisfaction and good quality of life in this cohort from Argentina.
Separate Assignment of the Creditor’s Claims against the Guarantor: Current Domestic Legal Order and Its Understanding
Authors:   HSE University, Volchanskiy Mikhail A. ,   MGIMO University
Published: November 2024

This article is devoted to the analysis of the situation in which the creditor, while retaining claims against the principal debtor under a secured obligation, assigns its claims against the guarantor to the assignee (separate assignment of the creditor’s claims against the guarantor). The author shows that, based on dogma, domestic legislation and judicial practice, several arguments pro et contra the admissibility of a separate assignment of the creditor’s claims to the guarantor can be given. At the same time, the arguments in favour of prohibiting the separate assignment of claims to the guarantor turn out to be very vulnerable to criticism. Based on the existing usefulness for the circulation of the corresponding instrument of separate assignment, the generally permissible nature of the private law method of regulating contractual relations, as well as the availability of effective tools for protecting the debtor and guarantor from abuse, the author concludes that it is necessary to support the point of view on the admissibility of separate assignment of claims to the guarantor, which is organically integrated into dogmatics, which does not recognise the accessority of belonging (following) as having a constitutive nature in securing obligations.
On the Practice of Taxing Real Estate of Organisations on the Basis of Cadastral Value
Authors:   Financial Research Institute of the Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation, Ponomareva Karina A. ,   RANEPA
Published: November 2024

The article was prepared as part of a study on the assessment of the fiscal and economic consequences of the transition to taxation of real estate of organisations based on the cadastral value. The analysis of the judicial practice of recent years on the issues of challenging the fact of inclusion in the regional list of objects, the taxation of which is carried out based on the cadastral value. It is concluded that the problems of law enforcement can be solved on the basis of the formation of uniform approaches in judicial practice, including in terms of ensuring consistency in assessing the actual characteristics of real estate in each case. The main reason for the cancellation of judicial acts adopted in favour of the taxpayer does not relate to errors in law enforcement. The outcome of a court dispute in most cases depends on how effectively the parties approached proving the type of actual use of real estate objects.
Impact of Hypobaric Technology Combined with Fumigation on Freshness Preservation of Post-harvest Litchi
Authors: Kan Ankang , Zhang Longfei , Lin Lijing , Wang Ning , Wang Meiyu
Published: November 2024

Litchi is rich in nutrients, which is quite beneficial for improving the physical quality of people, but litchi browns in a few days at room temperature, and the shelf life is very short. To study the influence of hypobaric storage on the storage quality of litchi after harvest, a hypobaric storage device combined with fumigation technology was used to fumigate litchi, and the change in pressure and temperature distribution in the hypobaric chamber was simulated. Secondly, during the hypobaric fumigation, litchi was divided into four groups with uniform quality, and humidified at 0%, 2%, 3%, and 5%, respectively. The temperature of the surface and center of the litchi was measured using a thermocouple. The research results show that in the simulation verification, the changes in pressure and temperature in the vacuum chamber during the experiment are basically consistent with the simulated values, and under different humidification specific gravity, when the humidification specific gravity is 3%, the center temperature and surface temperature drop the fastest, in which the surface temperature drops to 277.15 K, and the center temperature drops to 283.15 K, and the hypobaric fumigation and pre-cooling reaching the same temperature. The time required is also minimal.
Preliminary study of shear strain-based design approach for onshore wind turbine foundations
Authors: Jixiang Li , Wang Dongyuan , Yin Yisheng
Published: November 2024

Different wind turbine foundation types were analyzed with PLAXIS 3D using a hardening/softening model with a small strain stiffness constitutive model to capture the characteristics of degradation of clays. The study found that even though the conventional design requirements were all satisfied, the shear strains under foundations varied greatly. A literature review regarding the shear strain versus soil degradation was performed, and relevant threshold strains that limit the soils to recoverable behaviors were discussed. A shear strain-based design approach was then proposed and a flowchart for the design process was presented for onshore wind turbine foundations. The proposed design approach simplifies the foundation designs under cyclic loads and relieves the concerns of cyclic degradation and the gapping issue of the foundations subjected to cyclic loads. The analysis results show the shear strains of soils could be effectively controlled within the small-strain threshold by using different structural dimensions, and sometimes together with geotechnical measures. The study found the widely used traditional gravity foundations are governed by conventional design requirements as the shear strains typically are smaller than the threshold level. However, the strain control criterion is dictating deep foundations used for wind turbines.
Mengoptimalkan Bisnis Homestay melalui Pengelolaan Keuangan yang Inklusif—Lingkup POKDARWIS Desa Pela
Authors: Ulfah Yana , Rahmawati Rahmawati , Arifin Zainal , Darma Dio Caisar
Published: November 2024

So far, the Tourism Awareness Group (POKDARWIS) in Pela Village has not implemented residential bookkeeping or financial management, so it often experiences problems in identifying tourism economic performance, especially income from homestays. In this context, financial management training is needed to optimize the performance of the homestay business. In this service, socialization approach, discussion and field practice methods are distributed to POKDARWIS of Pela Village. Empowerment focuses on building knowledge and skills in managing homestay finances. POKDARWIS of Pela Village was given an understanding of simple bookkeeping guidelines and direct assistance. Overall, they received the training well to support the sustainability of the homestay business through better quality financial management. It is hoped that the implications of this service will encourage POKDARWIS to apply simple financial management to the homestay business.
Disentangling decision errors from action execution in mouse-tracking studies: The case of effect-based action control
Authors: Tonn Solveig , Schaaf Moritz , Kunde Wilfried , Pfister Roland
Published: November 2024

Mouse-tracking is regarded as a powerful technique to investigate latent cognitive and emotional states. However, drawing inferences from this manifold data source carries the risk of several pitfalls, especially when using aggregated data rather than single-trial trajectories. Researchers might reach wrong conclusions because averages lump together two distinct contributions that speak towards fundamentally different mechanisms underlying between-condition differences: influences from online-processing during action execution and influences from incomplete decision processes. Here, we propose a simple method to assess these factors, thus allowing us to probe whether process-pure interpretations are appropriate. By applying this method to data from 12 published experiments on ideomotor action control, we show that the interpretation of previous results changes when dissociating online processing from decision and initiation errors. Researchers using mouse-tracking to investigate cognition and emotion are therefore well advised to conduct detailed trial-by-trial analyses, particularly when they test for direct leakage of ongoing processing into movement trajectories.
Empatik Eğilimin Saldırganlık Düzeylerine Etkisi
Authors: Arslan Ömer
Published: November 2024

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