bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Educação ambiental e práticas pedagógicas interdisciplinares: percepções de estudantes de uma escola pública de Guaiúba - Ceará
Authors: Barroso Joelma de Melo , Silva Geranilde Costa e , Carioca Claúdia Ramos , Albuquerque Ítalo Araújo , Silva Fábio Morais da , Silva Antônio José Pereira da , Silva Aldemiza Correia da , Falcao Adair Gomes
Published: March 2024

Os Parâmetros Curriculares Nacionais alertam que a solução dos problemas ambientais tem sido considerada cada vez mais urgente para garantir o futuro da humanidade, e depende da relação que se estabelece entre sociedade e natureza, tanto na dimensão coletiva quanto na individual. Nesse contexto, a implementação de uma Educação Ambiental (EA) na escola significa repensar a garantia da sustentabilidade dos recursos naturais do planeta, tendo em vista que somente por meio da educação, podemos construir uma sociedade mais sustentável, socialmente justa e ecologicamente equilibrada. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo é identificar as contribuições de práticas pedagógicas desenvolvidas na e pela escola, especificamente na área da Educação Ambiental, na formação de estudantes da educação básica. A pesquisa foi realizada com alunos do 3º ano do ensino médio, do curso técnico em Agropecuária, de uma escola da rede estadual de ensino, no município de Guaiúba-Ce, visando compreender como tais práticas influenciam na construção de uma consciência ambiental, atitudes e conhecimentos dos estudantes. Metodologicamente, utilizamos os métodos qualitativo e quantitativo de análise de dados, além da utilização de um questionário. Para alcançar esse propósito, aplicamos um questionário, por ser uma ferramenta estratégica que serve à investigação das percepções dos alunos em relação às práticas pedagógicas adotadas, assim como à identificação dos impactos dessas práticas em suas atitudes, em relação ao meio ambiente, e à compreensão de como essas experiências formativas contribuem para a construção de uma consciência sustentável. É preciso pontuar que a proposta desta pesquisa contou com o envolvimento dos alunos nas atividades, a adoção de comportamentos responsáveis e a busca por soluções para os desafios ambientais. Por fim, verificamos que quase todas as disciplinas da escola tratam da temática durante as aulas ministradas pelos professores, e que os estudantes têm uma tendência a compartilhar, principalmente com seus familiares, as práticas que aprendem, o que configura uma conexão entre o conhecimento adquirido na escola e a realidade social. Dessa forma, entendemos que a Educação Ambiental não deve ser uma prática limitada ao ambiente escolar, mas um instrumento de transformação social.
A integração do conhecimento científico e a produção sustentável de termoplásticos vulcanizados a partir de resíduos de pneus
Authors: Silva Flavia Mayara Gonçalves da , Machado Alex Ramos , Alcântara Raissa Vidal de
Published: March 2024

Este estudo aborda a utilização sustentável de resíduos sólidos, com adição de pó de pneu no Polietileno para produzir TermoPlásticos Vulcanizados (TPVs). A técnica de compatibilização não reativa mostrou melhorias no módulo elástico do PEBD. As amostras compatibilizadas com EVA apresentaram menor variação no envelhecimento, e maior resistência ao impacto quando combinadas com SBR. Os resultados mostram a influência da massa molar no escoamento dos polímeros. O estudo contribui para o desenvolvimento de TPVs sustentáveis e melhoria nas propriedades físico-mecânicas. A iniciação científica em TPV proporcionou aos alunos habilidades investigativas e científicas, preparando-os para enfrentar desafios no mercado de trabalho.
Application of microemulsion in extract of the stalk of the Manilkara zapota (L.) P. Van Royen plant and evaluation of antioxidant activity
Authors: Silva Mikaelly Moanny Ramalho da , Costa Nadia Barbosa da , Castro Aleff , Rosário Carla Janaina Rebouças Marques do , Mouchrek Adenilde Nascimento , Teles Amanda Mara
Published: March 2024

The aim of this work was to evaluate the antioxidant activity of the stem of the Manilkara zapota plant and its application in a microemulsion. To this end, the crude extract was obtained using the percolation method in 70% (v/v) ethanol and then, by means of liquid-liquid partitioning, three distinct fractions were obtained: dichloromethane fraction, ethyl acetate fraction and aqueous fraction, respectively. Their antioxidant activity was analyzed using the ABTS radical scavenging method and total phenolic compounds using the Folin-Ciocalteau method. The microemulsions were obtained following the formulation described by MALAKAR (2011). The fraction with the most pronounced antioxidant activity and the highest concentration of total phenolics and the crude extract were used for application in microemulsions. The best results for antioxidant activity were 22.22±0.20 and 43.09±1.07 (103 μM Trolox/g) for the crude extract and ethyl acetate fraction, respectively. The total phenolic content was 109.90±7.80 and 66.57±3.51 (mg EAG/g) for the crude extract and ethyl acetate fraction, respectively. After application in microemulsion, better antioxidant activity were observed for the ethyl acetate fraction (176.88±3.74 x103 μM Trolox/g) and crude extract (112,40±2,27 x103 μM Trolox/g) and higher concentrations of total phenolics for the ethyl acetate fraction (184.55±9.74 mg EAG/g). In this way, it was possible to confirm the antioxidant activity of the stem of the Manilkara zapota plant, as well as to potentiate it through fractionation and application in a microemulsion system.
O consumo do modo de vida de Downton Abbey
Authors: Prando Lye Renata , Viana Fábio Caim , França Maria Isabel Galvão de
Published: March 2024

O presente artigo discorre sobre a estrutura do discurso publicitário no seriado Downton Abbey e como os valores expostos na narrativa incentivam o consumo do modo de vida através do processo de identificação do sujeito enunciatário. Para tanto buscamos amparo na semiótica greimasiana, especialmente a sociossemiótica e a semiótica plástica.
Technological convergence for ethernet networks in railways process control systems
Authors: Borba Felipe Colares de , Oliveira Kleber Bittencourt , Alencar Patrick Souza de , Lima Vitor Hugo Auzier , Sena Siandro Sales , Velasco Márcio de Freitas , Medeiros Isaque Gemaque de
Published: March 2024

The tests carried out in the proposed implementation of an Ethernet network for railway signalling indicate that the topology in sections, with rings interconnected by optical fibre, offers an efficient solution in terms of throughput, latency and availability. Although a challenge was identified in the convergence time in Layer 3, exceeding one second, this is considered a calculated risk due to its occurrence being restricted to specific points in the network and the robustness of the equipment with high MTBF. The positive results in the bandwidth, latency and no frame loss tests in different scenarios reinforce the viability of the proposal to meet the demands of railway signalling. Careful implementation of the suggested topology, combined with redundancy strategies and proactive maintenance, emerges as a promising solution to meet the emerging challenges in railway traffic control automation, providing safety and operational efficiency. Continuous monitoring and preventive maintenance are key to ensuring the system's lasting and reliable performance.
As consequências da precarização do trabalho docente, sob os professores do ensino fundamental I, no bojo da falta de concurso e baixa remuneração
Authors: Almeida Vitor Sergio de , Matos Fernanda Leticia Medeiros de , Rizza Aureane Martins Valadão Ferreira , Souza Ryhã Henrique Caetano e , Brandão Aluísio
Published: March 2024

Tal estudo revigora à temática do trabalho docente, enveredando, especificamente, para o cerne da precarização, identificando duas questões recorrentes: falta de concursos e a baixa remuneração. No que tange ao embasamento teórico, a pesquisa é sustentada pelas análises de produções documentais e bibliográficas, concomitantemente, há uma investigação qualitativa e quantitativa, sendo que o ponto alto foi a aplicação de um questionário com 50 professores da rede municipal de Ituiutaba, Minas Gerais, o qual abordou questões (discursivas e de múltiplas escolhas) sobre as duas formas de precarização, assim, retratando a percepção dos docentes em relação ao contexto vivenciado por eles. Os resultados quantitativos das respostas, os quais representam com fidelidade a realidade estudada, foram analisados graficamente, e correlacionados com o arcabouço documental e bibliográfico. Quanto as expressões argumentativas dos respondentes, após análise crítica, as mais relevantes foram dispostas no presente texto a fim de embasar as reflexões feitas. Entre as conclusões, destacam-se: há grande necessidade de se ter mais concursos (um direito constitucional), gerando maior estabilidade e garantias profissionais e que se perpetua uma má remuneração, mesmo com a existência de um piso salarial, especialmente, se comparado com outras carreiras profissionais que exigem a mesma titulação.
Kształtowanie przestrzeni Centrum Naukowo--Edukacyjnego GeoCentrum w odpowiedzina realne potrzeby gestora Ośrodka Współpracy Ekologiczno-Geologicznej GEOsfera w Jaworznie
Authors: Bielak-Zasadzka Maria , Sikorska Patrycja , Chećko Agnieszka
Published: March 2024

Głównym celem opracowania jest ukazanie procesu tworzenia wytycznych projektowych przestrzeni Centrum Naukowo-Edukacyjnego GeoCentrum zlokalizowanego w Jaworznie w odpowiedzi na realne potrzeby i oczekiwania użytkowników tej przestrzeni, jakimi są: gestor Ośrodka Współpracy Ekologiczno-Geologicznej GEOsfera oraz użytkownicy zewnętrzni: pracownicy naukowi, studenci, osoby odwiedzające. Opracowanie przedstawia bezpośredni wpływ badań przedprojektowych na ostateczny kształt obiektu Centrum Naukowo-Edukacyjnego. Wstępne analizy i badania pozwoliły na zdefiniowanie głównych kierunków projektowych dotyczących układu funkcjonalno-przestrzennego obiektu, przestrzeni otaczającej budynek, funkcji uzupełniających oraz ogólnych wytycznych projektowych dla obiektu badawczo-szkoleniowego z zakresu dziedzin geologii i biologii.
Acceptance of chronic disease in patients living with HIV infection: one centre's cross-sectional study
Authors: Błudzin Wiesława , Bożejko Mateusz , Inglot Małgorzata
Published: March 2024

Background: Despite effective treatment, the quality of life of patients infected with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) can be diminished by factors both directly and indirectly related to the infection.Aim of the study: Determination of factors affecting the acceptance of HIV infection as a chronic disease in HIV-infected patients. Material and methods: A survey was conducted on 83 HIV-infected adults undergoing antiretroviral (ARV) treatment. The impact of social and medical factors on the acceptance of a chronic disease such as HIV infection was analyzed. Factors such as age, gender, education, route of HIV infection, living with family or a close person, professional activity, length of ARV therapy, history of an indicator disease, treatment breaks, markers of HBV infection, and current comorbidities requiring treatment, which may affect self-acceptance, were included in the analysis. Information about the patients was obtained from the Acceptance of Illness Scale (AIS) survey and medical records.Results: On average, in the AIS survey, patients scored 33.98 points, with a maximum of 40, which proves a very good acceptance of their infection. Among the many analyzed factors, only two variables showed statistical significance. Professionally active people accept their infection better, while lower acceptance was observed in patients who discontinued ARV therapy in the past.Conclusions: The analysis of the data from the study shows the need to consider many factors influencing the acceptance of HIV infection in HIV-infected patients. This will allow the introduction of programs to improve care for people with a chronic disease and thus improve their quality of life. The high assessment of acceptance of their disease was undoubtedly influenced by professional activity, the effectiveness of ARV treatment, and good access to ARV drugs.
Aplicación clinica de biomarcadores para la deteccion precoz de patologias renales en adultos mayores
Authors: Mina-Ortiz Jhon Bryan , Carvajal-Tumbaco Ariana Alexandra , Palacios-Vera Genessi Daniela
Published: March 2024

El estudio sobre la aplicación clínica de biomarcadores específicos para la detección precoz de patologías renales en adultos mayores revela una serie de hallazgos importantes. Se observa que los biomarcadores como la cistatina C y la microalbúmina urinaria muestran una sensibilidad y especificidad prometedoras en la identificación temprana de enfermedades renales en adultos mayores. Ofrecen una herramienta eficaz para el diagnóstico precoz, lo que puede llevar a una mejor gestión clínica de estas patologías. El objetivo fue determinar la aplicación clínica de biomarcadores para la detección precoz de patologías renales en adultos mayores. Esta investigación está enmarcada por medio de un estudio tipo descriptivo, el mismo que se basa principalmente en una revisión sistemática de la información relacionada con el tema de nuestra investigación, utilizando la técnica de lectura crítica de fuentes como artículos originales y revistas médicas. Estos estudios evalúan la sensibilidad y especificidad de diferentes biomarcadores, como la cistatina C, la creatinina sérica, la interleucina-18, entre otros. Además, se destacan ventajas y desventajas de biomarcadores como la cistatina C, la creatinina sérica, la albúmina, entre otros, en comparación con técnicas como la biopsia renal o la tasa de filtración glomerular estimada. La Cistatina C y la Creatinina sérica son los biomarcadores más estudiados en la detección de enfermedades renales en adultos mayores, mostrando sensibilidades variables. La Cistatina C es ampliamente investigada en varios países y metodologías, sugiriendo su importancia en esta área.
AVALIAÇÃO DA ASSISTÊNCIA VENTILATÓRIA DURANTE O TESTE DE RESPIRAÇÃO ESPONTÂNEA EM PACIENTES NO PÓS-OPERATÓRIO DE CIRÚRGICA CARDÍACA
Authors: Almeida Regiane Alves de , Netto Hermenegildo Calças , Mendes Adriana Ferreira London , Carvalho Neto Joaquim Jeronimo de , Seki Karla Luciana Magnani
Published: March 2024

As Doenças Cardiovasculares (DCV) são uma das principais causas de morte, com impacto significativo nos sistemas de saúde. Além de ser uma questão de saúde pública, o próprio tratamento em muitas das vezes é invasivo e gera impacto sobre os sistemas do paciente além do cardiovascular, de forma que muitos precisam passar pela cirurgia, onde eles são submetidos a ventilação mecânica, a avaliação dessa assistência durante o teste de respiração espontânea, parte fundamental do desmame, pode auxiliar na redução do tempo de VM, e consequente aumentar a taxa de sobrevida.  Objetivo: A pesquisa teve como objetivo avaliar o nível de assistência ventilatória, utilizando medidas de variáveis não invasivas, durante o teste de respiração espontânea em pacientes no pós-operatório de cirurgia cardíaca. Método: Estudo transversal, prospectivo, observacional que comparou os parâmetros de P0,1, Pmus, DeltaPocc e Drive Pressure Transpulmonar nos momentos de 15 e 30 minutos do TRE de pacientes em PO de cirurgia cardíaca. Resultados: A maioria dos participantes era do sexo masculino e acima de 60 anos. A revascularização do miocárdio foi a cirurgia predominante. Os valores médios de P0,1 (p= 0,425), ΔPocc (p= 0,317), Pmus (p= 0,376) e DP transpulmonar (p= 0,197), foram semelhantes nos dois momentos estudados. Os valores de P0,1, ΔPocc, Pmus estavam abaixo da normalidade, sugerindo superassistência e DP transpulmonar dentro da normalidade. Apesar disso, todos os pacientes tiveram sucesso na extubação. Conclusão: A pesquisa destaca a importância de avaliar cuidadosamente a assistência ventilatória em pacientes pós-cirúrgicos cardíacos, considerando a possibilidade de superassistência. São necessários estudos adicionais para entender melhor os parâmetros ideais nesse cenário, explorando pressões mais baixas ou até mesmo a ausência delas.
LEARNING EXPERIENCES OF SOCIAL WORK STUDY PROGRAMME STUDENTS: TUTOR'S AND PEER SUPPORT
Authors:   Vilniaus kolegija / Higher Education Institution, Kondratavičienė Renata , Ilgūnė-Martinėlienė Rita ,   Vilniaus kolegija / Higher Education Institution, Bertašiene Inga
Published: March 2024

The learning experiences of social work students are influenced by their interactions with tutors and peers, as well as the support they receive from them. Tutors play a crucial role in helping students understand theoretical concepts and apply them to real-world situations. Peer support fosters a collaborative learning environment where students can share insights and learn from each other's experiences. The article examines the learning experiences of social work students in a study programme that emphasises tutor and peer support. The research aims to explore the role of tutor and peer support in a blended learning environment. A survey was conducted among 97 students who studied social work at a higher education institution in Lithuania in 2023. The study analysed the interactivity indicators, tutor support, and peer support. The results indicate that students highly valued the support provided by both tutors and peers. This support helped them to develop their professional identity, enhance their academic skills, and cope with the challenges of studying social work. The article offers insights for improving the quality of teaching and learning in this field.
Har psykisk helsehjelp gitt opp å nå menn?
Authors: Winterstø Camilla , Oftung Knut
Published: March 2024

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Opnar for breiare dekning av sjølvmordstematikk
Authors: Pileberg Silje
Published: March 2024

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Climate Change, Remodelling of Oral Tales and the Changing Ways of Life: The Case of the Sangu of Tanzania
Authors: Kalenge Michael
Published: March 2024

African oral literature is not static; it changes in accordance with and in relation to the changes occurring in the society it reflects. As a rich source of varying degrees of information, African oral literature depicts the changing human conditions and behaviour like climate and related environmental conditions, crime, political instability, disease amongst others; and provides requisite solutions to such piercing and compelling global challenges. This paper presents a textual analysis of four (4) Sangu oral tales to show how the Sangu of south-west Tanzania have been remodelling their tales in relation to the changing human life conditions. It scrutinises “iJungwa Sikhandi Vaanu” (lit. trans. ‘elephants were once human beings’), “Umutwa nu Mwehe Waakwe” (‘the chief and his wife’), “Umuhinja ni Nyula” (‘a girl and the frogs’), and “Kwashi iNwiga sina Singo Nali”(‘why giraffes have long necks’), which were part of the 20 tales collected during in-depth interviews held with Sangu storytellers. The selection of these four tales was based in their suiting the climate change theme and remodelling. The study found that oral stories display unique knowledge of a particular people pertaining to climate change and adaptation. Moreover, it emerged that sustainable solutions to the current environmental crisis are embedded in people’s environment-related oral narratives.
Unleashing Neglected Potentials: Women’s Self-awareness and Empowerment in Flora Nwapa’s One is Enough
Authors:   University of Dodoma, Kilatu Emmanuel
Published: March 2024

This article examines the portrayal of women's capabilities in Flora Nwapa’s 1986 novel One is Enough, focusing on their neglected potentials such as aggression, autonomy, and daring acts that help these female characters make personal decisions that are inconsistent with conventional limits often placed on a woman's free will and potential to engage in economic entrepreneurial activities. Guided by African feminism and radical feminism, the article examines how both female and male characters are depicted as victims of patriarchy, on the one hand, and how female characters emerge as radical, sometimes even threatening patriarchy in the face of shifting social relations, on the other hand. The article argues that Nwapa’s novel marks a radical shift in literary knowledge regarding the characterisation of African women in African literary discourses, suggesting that self-awareness unlocks their neglected potentials that catalyse their entrepreneurial spirit. Implicitly, the novel calls for a new perspective on how the female subjects should be viewed and treated, considering that some aggressive female characters fight with men and resort to unconventional ways of earning income, such as selling commodities on the battlefield and soliciting financial help from acquaintances through intimate relationships while disregarding traditional conventions and etiquette.
UM ESTUDO COMPARATIVO ENTRE O NSGA-II E UM ALGORITMO GENÉTICO PARA A SOLUÇÃO DE UM JOB-SHOP SCHEDULING PROBLEM
Authors: QUEIROZ GABRIEL ANDRADE , DA SILVA EDERSON ROSA
Published: March 2024

Os problemas de escalonamento de processos possuem grande valor no estudo de otimização computacional aplicada a diversas áreas como redes de comunicação, infraestrutura, planejamento e logística. Por serem problemas classificados como de grande dificuldade combinatória, a aplicação de métodos heurísticos como algoritmos genéticos é uma boa escolha na busca de soluções. Assim, este estudo tem como objetivo analisar o emprego de algoritmos genéticos, destacando o NSGA-II, na solução do problema de otimização combinatória multiobjetivo JSSP. Os resultados expõem uma comparação de um algoritmo genético genérico ao NSGA-II, demonstrando que ambos são de grande valia na solução de problemas de escalonamento como o JSSP.
Risk factors associated with early childhood caries: A bibliometric analysis
Authors: Pinella-Vega Melissa , Romero-Gamboa Julio , Gallego-Ramírez John E. , Millones-Gómez Pablo A. , Valencia-Arias Alejandro
Published: March 2024

Context: Early childhood caries (ECC) is a significant oral health problem affecting children worldwide. Its consequences can range from pain and infection to impact on children's quality of life. Research on risk factors associated with ECC is evolving but shows gaps and inconsistencies. Aims: To examine research trends on risk factors associated with early childhood caries in the Scopus and Web of Science databases. Methods: A methodology based on the PRISMA 2020 declaration was used, focusing on a systematic bibliometric review. Results: The results showed a significant increase in scientific interest in ECC, especially in 2021 and 2022, with a 98.87% increase in publications. Countries such as India and the United States were leading the research, and current thematic trends lean towards oral hygiene practices and survival analysis. Conclusions: The evolution of the field suggests a focus on emerging areas and adaptability to the changing needs of affected populations.
The Gradient Delay Volume, Part II: Practice – Effects on Method Transfer
Authors: Stoll Dwight
Published: March 2024

The gradient delay volume is one of the most important, yet least understood, parameters that affect how gradient elution separations in liquid chromatography (LC) work. This parameter has implications for method development and method transfer during the lifecycle of an LC method. In this installment, Dwight R. Stoll illustrates the impact of different gradient delay volumes when transferring a method between instruments and discuss some strategies that can be used to mitigate these challenges.
Liquid Chromatographic Peak Purity Assessments in Forced Degradation Studies: An Industry Perspective
Authors: Marillier Pascal , Adams Neal , Baertschi Steven W. , Campbell John M. , Foti Chris , Franca Juçara Ribeiro , Hicks Simon , Kotoni Dorina , Laue Christian , Marden Stacey , Meng Liping , de Oliveira Santos Ana Claudia , Ultramari Mariah , Van Cleempoe An , Wang Chloe , Zelesky Todd , Huang Zongyun
Published: March 2024

This review article discusses scientific rationales and current best practices in the pharmaceutical industry for performing chromatographic peak purity assessments (PPA). These activities are associated with the development and validation of liquid chromatographic (LC) stability-indicating analytical methods applicable to regulatory submissions of small-molecule drug candidates. The discussion includes a comprehensive overview of the PPA-related regulatory and scientific landscape and common industry approaches to obtain PPA results, as well as the strengths and weaknesses of PDA-facilitated ultraviolet (UV) PPA and other PPA techniques.
Lethal mycotic pseudoaneurysm presenting as isolated sixth nerve palsy
Authors: Bhanuman Rasna , Varadharajan Shriram , Kumar Karthik Kumar , Shah Virna M.
Published: March 2024

Pseudoaneurysm of the internal carotid artery caused by skull base osteomyelitis (SBO) is a lethal condition seen in immunocompromised patients, predominantly those with diabetes mellitus. Cranial nerve involvement is a common complication and generally indicates a poor prognosis. We report the case of a 62-year-old diabetic patient who presented with isolated sixth cranial nerve palsy. She had uncontrolled blood sugar levels and high erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and she suffered from pyelonephritis.  Neuroimaging detected SBO with multiple secondary mycotic pseudoaneurysms prominent at the petrocavernous junction. Ischemia is the most common etiology for an isolated abducens nerve palsy, but in certain cases neuroimaging is warranted to prevent life-threatening complications. This case highlights the importance and urgency of identifying and managing such conditions.
Muscle energy techniques versus myofascial release on scoliosis in adolescent girls: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mohammed Amira. H. , Abo-Ali Safy. E. , Abdelmutilibe Sahar M. , Elsamahy Sara. A. , Elsherif Nashwa. E. , Elmahdy Malak. A. , Sheha Samah. M.
Published: March 2024

Background. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a complicated 3D structural spine condition occurring in children aged 10 to skeletal maturity. The study aimed to examine the impact of muscle energy technique and/or myofascial release on adolescent idiopathic scoliosis for large sample. Also, it aimed to compare the muscle energy techniques versus myofascial release on idiopathic scoliosis.
Methods. A total of 50 girls with idiopathic non-bony structural scoliosis of the thoracic spine were included in this trial. They were randomly divided into two equal-sized (n = 25 for each group). For three months, group A (Muscle energy technique Group), which received Scientific Exercises Approach to Scoliosis exercises in addition to Muscle energy technique; and group B (Myofascial release Group), which received the same Scientific Exercises Approach to Scoliosis exercises conducted to group A in addition to myofascial release. The primary outcome was a standing radiological evaluation of coronal Cobb´s angle.
Results. According to this study's findings, a highly significant difference was discovered in the mean values of Cobb´s angle between pre and post-treatment in muscle energy technique group. When the mean values of Cobb´s angle was compared before and after treatment for myofascial release group, it was reveals a significant change.
Conclusions. After treatment for three months, both groups improved significantly, with muscle energy technique group outperforming the myofascial release group by a large margin. So, muscle energy technique was more effective than myofascial release in reducing the abnormal thoracic curvature in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.
Trial registration. The study was registered with Clinicaltrials.gov under the identifier NCT05120089.
Reviving ancestral heritage: games traditional sports as key to improve innovative child endurance
Authors: Munir Ali , Sumaryanti Sumaryanti , Rismayanthi Cerika , Bafirman Bafirman , Nia Thesya Alda , Zarya Fiky
Published: March 2024

Traditional sports games have become an important part of the cultural heritage we inherited from our ancestors. However, with the development of technology and changes in modern lifestyles, traditional sports games have seen a decline in popularity among children. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the role of traditional sports games in increasing children's endurance in an innovative way. This research uses a qualitative descriptive research model that is a literature study that uses various literature reviews in strengthening research analysis. This research began by collecting some literature, then conducted a review and the collected literature was analyzed with a critical Apprasial table of 10 literature. The results showed that traditional sports games were able to provide significant benefits for children's endurance. Through these games, children develop motor skills, body coordination, and balance. They also learn to cope with challenges, develop social skills, such as cooperation and communication, and gain a sense of pride in their cultural heritage. In addition, the introduction of traditional sports games adapted to innovative elements, such as the use of technology or the setting of new rules, can increase children's interest in participating. This allows them to maintain a connection to the traditions of the past while experiencing the joys and challenges presented in a more contemporary context. This research provides recommendations for educators and parents to promote traditional sports games as an integral part of children's educational and activity curricula. Thus, children can develop innovative resilience through activities that honor their ancestral heritage.
Managing nicotine dependence in clinical settings
Authors: Guillaumier A , McCarter K , Trigg J , Hines S , Jackson M , Harrison N , Ishaque S , Rice J , Dowling A , Ela O , Bowden J , Dunlop A , Passey M , Baker A , Bonevski B
Published: March 2024

This Evidence Check aims to identify the most effective clinical interventions for nicotine-dependent patients in clinical settings. The Evidence Check identified 74 eligible studies for inclusion in the review, and the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Levels of Evidence were used to assess the robustness of the included studies. According to the evidence, a multi-component approach involving both medications and behavioural interventions remains the best practice for quitting smoking and is recommended to support quitting smoking for nicotine-dependent patients. The medicine Varenicline continues to be the most effective stand-alone treatment. The evidence suggests that for patients who can't take varenicline, Nicotine Replacement Therapy plus behavioural support should be provided. During hospital stays, healthcare providers should provide a connection to Quitline alongside behavioural interventions and medicines. The same advice should be followed for e-cigarette cessation since there is a lack of evidence assessing quitting strategies specific to e-cigarette use.
The Role of Tvet Programs in Attaining Sustainable Development Goal 12: A Sustainable Food Processing Practices in Selected Tvet Colleges, Kenya.
Authors:   Mawego National Polytechnic, OTIENO STEPHEN OCHIENG
Published: March 2024

Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP) are the important elements to strive the sustainable development in Agenda 2030. The unacceptable food losses and future uncertainties stemming from population growth, natural disasters, and scarcity of natural resources lead to the evaluation of current practices on sustainable food processing. As Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is an institution that can accelerate sustainable development, this study is to seek sustainable food processing practices among the students of the TVET program and the role of the TVET program to achieve SDG 12. This study was conducted using a deductive descriptive design through a cross-sectional survey questionnaire. A total of 298 respondents were analyzed for the mean value and standard deviation using the instrument of sustainable food processing (i-KProM) that have been proven the validity and reliability. The result revealed moderate practices (3.67) among the respondents which included 3 sub-constructs of practices which are processing practices at high level (4.20), pre-processing practices (2.97) and post-processing practices (3.17) at a moderate level for each sub-construct. The implications show that the need to emphasize the practices of optimization of the natural sources during the product production followed by avoiding improper product handling. Secondly, the solid waste products during the processing activities must be managed proactively to reduce the environmental effect. Finally, this research emphasizes the role of the TVET program in achieving SCP that could accelerate the evaluation of sustainable practices among the TVET students at all stages of education. Keywords: Sustainable food processing, technical and vocational training and education, sustainable practices.
Impact of Macroeconomic Variables on the Performance of State-owned Insurance Companies in Bangladesh
Authors: Khan Dr. Sadia Noor , Sultana Afrin
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of some selected macroeconomic variables on the performance of state-owned insurance companies operating in Bangladesh. The state-owned companies are observed from the year of 2013 to 2022. In this study, we have used five performance measures such as Net Profit Margin, Solvency Ratio, Claim/ Loss Ratio, Underwriting/Gross Profit Ratio and Dividend pay-out Ratio as dependent variables. The explanatory variables used in this study are categorized as macroeconomic factors such as GDP growth rate, inflation rate, employment rate and interest rate. Firm-specific factors such as the age of the firms, firm size (measured as total asset), net premium are used as control variables. The research employs Pooled Ordinary Least Square (POLS) Regression to investigate the impact of macroeconomic variables on the performance of the state-owned insurance companies. The results of our study suggest that interest rate has significant impact on the performance of state-owned insurance companies. Also, the size of the company has statistically significant impact on the performance of the companies. So, the interest rate along with firm size have been considered as important determinants of the performance of the state-owned insurance companies in Bangladeshi. The findings of the study are expected to be useful for the investors in making decisions while selecting stocks of insurance companies and policymakers can also use the findings to formulate policies aiming at economic development of the country.
Exploring the Demand for Microinsurance among Marginalized Women in Bangladesh
Authors: Moonmoon Sabiha Farzana , Majumder Benazir Imam
Published: March 2024

Recently, microinsurance has drawn much interest as a possible instrument to shield people experiencing poverty from significant shocks. However, there has been little voluntary demand, which raises questions about whether microinsurance would be effective as a risk management tool. This article aims to pinpoint the elements that affect the demand for microinsurance among Bangladeshi women employed in the informal sector, who are particularly susceptible to a variety of economic risks. On a sample size of 829 from around the country, the authors have conducted a logit analysis and identified fourteen factors classified under four broad categories that affect microinsurance demand for marginalized women. The result of this study will advance the field’s understanding of building microinsurance products and regulatory frameworks that consider the needs of disadvantaged women and assist them in obtaining the social protection necessary to sustain them over the long term
KADAR C-REACTIVE PROTEIN (CRP), D-DIMER DAN PROCALCITONIN (PCT) SEBAGAI PARAMETER PENANDA INFLAMASI PADA PASIEN COVID DENGAN KOMORBID: REVIEW
Authors: Rachmad Basuki , Apriani Apriani
Published: March 2024

Beberapa parameter penanda inflamasi akan meningkat jumlahnya didalam tubuh saat merespon adanya infeksi. Salah satu yakit infeksi yang saat ini masih banyak ditemukan kasusnya adalah COVID-19. Kadar C-reactive protein (CRP), D-dimer dan Procalcitonin (PCT) diketahui mengalami peningkatan selama pasien mengalami infeksi penyakit ini. Pasien COVID-19 dengan komorbid sering ditrmukan dalam kondisi yang mengalami keparahan serius terhadap infeksi ini. Analisa parameter penanda inflamasi khsuusnya pada pasien COVID-19 dengan komorbid sangat diperlukan sebagai prediktor prognosis dan membantu manajemen klinis, stratifikasi resiko, serta pendekatan maksimal pada pasien yang memiliki resiko kematian tinggi karena COVID-19. Tinjauan Pustaka ini ditulis berdasarkan berbagai buku, jurnal, dan artikel ilmiah yang berkaitan dengan beberapa parameter penanda inflamasi pada pasien COVID-19 dengan komorbid. Data kuantitatif dan kualitatif yang diperoleh, kemudian dikumpulkan dan disortir menjadi sebuah laporan berdasarkan topik yang sesuai. Penanda inflamasi CRP, D-dimer dan PCT dapat memberikan informasi tentang luaran pada pasien COVID-19 dengan komorbid. Pemilihan ketiga jenis parameter pemeriksaan ini adalah selain pemeriksaan nya tersedia hampir disemua rumah sakit rujukan pemeriksaan COVID-19, pemeriksaan nya mudah dan harga pemeriksaan juga terjangkau. Hal tersebut dapat memberikan efektivitas dari segi waktu dan biaya dalam penanganan pasien COVID-19 dengan komorbid. Beberapa hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa penanda inflamasi CRP, D-dimer dan PCT dapat digunakan sebagai prediktor dalam melihat luaran klinis pada pasien COVID- 19 dengan komorbid.
Plagues in World History
Authors: Aberth John
Published: March 2024

Plagues in World History provides a concise, comparative world history of catastrophic infectious diseases, including plague, smallpox, tuberculosis, cholera, influenza, and AIDS. Geographically, these diseases have spread across the entire globe; temporally, they stretch from the sixth century to the present. John Aberth considers not only the varied impact that disease has had upon human history but also the many ways in which people have been able to influence diseases simply through their cultural attitudes toward them. The author argues that the ability of humans to alter disease, even without the modern wonders of antibiotic drugs and other medical treatments, is an even more crucial lesson to learn now that AIDS, swine flu, multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, and other seemingly incurable illnesses have raged worldwide. Aberth's comparative analysis of how different societies have responded in the past to disease illuminates what cultural approaches have been and may continue to be most effective in combating the plagues of today.
Becoming Jewish
Authors: Reuben Steven Carr , Hanin Jennifer S.
Published: March 2024

Becoming Jewish is the first all-inclusive, step-by-step guide to converting to Judaism. Steven Carr Reuben, a highly respected rabbi, and Jennifer S. Hanin, a convert to the faith, lead readers through the conversion process, providing the right mix of advice, resources and humor for the journey.

Jews-to-be often find the steps to Judaism foreign, complex, and mysterious. From learning an ancient language, to entering the mikvah (ritual bath), to choosing a Hebrew name, to circumcision, to appearing before a bet din (Jewish court), becoming a Jew is anything but quick and easy. In this engaging and accessible guide, Reuben and Hanin offer practical wisdom for every step of conversion, including:

telling family and friends

selecting a denomination

choosing a rabbi

understanding Jewish rituals

celebrating Jewish holidays

putting aside childhood holidays

keeping ties to the past

advice on weddings, raising kids, and more

Throughout, the authors focus on developing a healthy spiritual life, while helping readers understand what it means to be Jewish, absorb Jewish teachings, and live a Jewish life.
The Constitution's Gift
Authors: Fossum John Erik , Menéndez Agustín José
Published: March 2024

This authoritative study considers all aspects of the European Union's distinctive constitution since its inception. A unique political animal, the EU has given rise to important constitutional conundrums and paradoxes that John Erik Fossum and Agustín José Menéndez explore in detail. The authors consider the process of forging the EU's constitution and the set of fundamental norms that define the institutional structure, the decision-making procedures, and the foundations of the Union's democratic legitimacy. Their analysis illuminates the distinctive features of the EU's pluralist constitutional construct but also the interesting parallels to the Canadian constitutional experience and provides the tools to understand the Union's development, especially during the Laeken (2001–2005) and Lisbon (2007–2009) processes of constitutional reform.

The authors' original theory of constitutional synthesis captures the distinctive traits of the European Union as a polity. It explains why and how the European Communities were established as the first constitutional union of constitutional states wherein integration would be steered by law, not power politics or imperialism. Similarly, it presents the European Union as one of the few examples of a polity that has transcended the paradigm of the nation-state (and perhaps even that of the state). Locating the substance and process of Lisbon in its proper constitutional context, Fossum and Menéndez explain why this should be seen as a new beginning of the Union's constitutional season, not its end. Offering the first history of European constitutional law that is both theoretically informed and normatively grounded, their book will be essential reading for all readers interested in the process and theory of European integration.
Shanghai Gone
Authors: Shao Qin
Published: March 2024

Shanghai has been demolished and rebuilt into a gleaming megacity in recent decades, now ranking with New York and London as a hub of global finance. But that transformation has come at a grave human cost. This compelling book is the first to apply the concept of domicide—the eradication of a home against the will of its dwellers—to the sweeping destruction of neighborhoods, families, and life patterns to make way for the new Shanghai. Here we find the holdouts and protesters, men and women who have stubbornly resisted domicide and demanded justice. Qin Shao follows, among others, a reticent kindergarten teacher turned diehard petitioner; a descendant of gangsters and squatters who has become an amateur lawyer for evictees; and a Chinese Muslim who has struggled to recover his ancestral home in Xintiandi, an infamous site of gentrification dominated by a well-connected Hong Kong real estate tycoon. Highlighting the wrenching changes spawned by China’s reform era, Shao vividly portrays the relentless pursuit of growth and profit by the combined forces of corrupt power and money, the personal wreckage it has left behind, and the enduring human spirit it has unleashed.

To see the author's blog post on Asia Society, please click here.
China on Film
Authors: Pickowicz Paul G.
Published: March 2024

Leading scholar Paul G. Pickowicz traces the dynamic history of Chinese filmmaking and discusses its course of development from the early days to the present. Moving decade by decade, he explores such key themes as the ever-shifting definitions of modern marriage in 1920s silent features, East-West cultural conflict in the movies of the 1930s, the strong appeal of the powerful melodramatic mode of the 1930s and 1940s, the polarizing political controversies surrounding Chinese filmmaking under the Japanese occupation of Shanghai in the 1940s, and the critical role of cinema during the bloody civil war of the late 1940s. Pickowicz then considers the challenging Mao years, including chapters on legendary screen personalities who tried but failed to adjust to the new socialist order in the 1950s, celebrities who made the sort of artistic and political accommodations that would keep them in the spotlight in the post-revolutionary era, and insider film professionals of the early 1960s who actively resisted the most extreme forms of Maoist cultural production. The book concludes with explorations of the highly cathartic films of the early post-Mao era, edgy postsocialist movies that appeared on the eve of the Tiananmen demonstrations of 1989, the relevance of the Eastern European “velvet prison” cultural production model, and the rise of underground and independent filmmaking beginning in the 1990s.

Throughout its long history of film production, China has been embroiled in a seemingly unending series of wars, revolutions, and jarring social transformations. Despite daunting censorship obstacles, Chinese filmmakers have found ingenious ways of taking political stands and weighing in—for better or worse—on the most explosive social, cultural, and economic issues of the day. Exploring the often gut-wrenching controversies generated by their work, Pickowicz offers a unique and perceptive window on Chinese culture and society.
Reconstruction and Peace Building in the Balkans
Authors: Farrand Robert William
Published: March 2024

In the tense aftermath of the 1992–1995 Bosnian War, U.S. diplomat Bill Farrand was assigned the daunting task of implementing the Dayton Peace Accords in the ethnically divided Balkan territory of Brcko in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Serb, Muslim, and Croat political leaders alike had blocked agreement over Brcko’s political status, thus threatening first to derail U.S.-brokered peace talks and then to prevent peace from taking hold in the postconflict period. This compelling narrative pulls the reader intimately into the author’s world where, over three tumultuous years, he was given wide authority to restore travel across former ceasefire lines, return thousands to their destroyed and confiscated homes, conduct free and fair elections, and reestablish multiethnic government bodies—all in a climate of fear and obstruction. “If we can get it right in Brcko,” the U.S. State Department told him, “we have a chance of making the Dayton peace process work throughout Bosnia.” Indeed, the new Brcko District is a Balkan success story.

Farrand highlights the complex challenges peace builders confront, especially the role of civilian leadership in a postconflict zone torn apart by ethnic cleansing. Analytic and prescriptive, the book explains in vivid detail the groundbreaking roles of arbitration and of civilian peace workers living among the people. His story is rich in lessons for all those studying or engaged in peace building abroad.
Higher Ground
Authors: Briggs Carolyn S.
Published: March 2024

A riveting memoir of one woman's immersion into fundamentalist faith, and her decision twenty years later to leave it all behind. Beautifully written and powerfully told, this memoir is a fascinating look at the nature of faith, and the inspiring story of one woman's struggle to find her place in the world. Originally published as This Dark World, this book has been adapted into the screenplay Higher Ground, now a film directed by and starring Vera Farmiga.

Carolyn Briggs grew up with modest means in the Iowa Heartland. Pregnant at seventeen and married to her musician boyfriend, by the age of eighteen she found herself with little hope for the future. Until an unexpected encounter with the Divine.

Soon she had immersed herself into a close-knit and patriarchal New Testament church. But as Carolyn began to realize that her religion left little room for what she wanted out of life-as a mother, as a wife, as an intellectually curious woman-cracks began to appear in her all-encompassing sense of faith, and slowly she began to question the religion that had given her hope.