bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fiat secundum artem: Botany, Experimental Photography and Visual Ecocriticism
Authors: Stübing Gerardo
Published: April 2024

The concept of visual ecocriticism is proposed through experimental photography, taking plants as a formal reference, one of the main objects of study in Botany. To do this, a series of artistic works are presented that resort to the hybrid use of various techniques of experimental photography, such as the argyrotype, cyanotype and solvent transfers, among others. The objective is to achieve social awareness through aesthetic appreciation, detached from economic and selfish pragmatism, typical of the Anthropocene of various aspects linked to sustainability such as climatic emergency, clean energy and the application of technologies that compromise environmental quality.

Keywords: Argyrotype; Experimental Photography; Visual Ecocriticism; Plant blindness; Botany; Anthropocene; Climate emergency
Association of metabolic syndrome and lifestyle factors with lower urinary tract symptoms and benign prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: Parveen Shugafta , Javaid Sabina , Yasmeen Rozina
Published: April 2024

Objective: The study aimed to find out how often people with urinary problems also have metabolic syndrome and benign prostatic hyperplasia. It also looked at how lifestyle choices might be linked to these urinary issues. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study carried out at the Shaikha Fatima Institute of Nursing and Health Sciences in Lahore from May to December 2022. It involved 150 participants, and data analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 22.0. Results: The result of study revealed that mean± SD of age and BMI was 43±14.23 and23±5.2 respectively. Most common symptom was UTI which was present in 93(62.0%) of cases followed by urinary urgency 58(38.7%), and BPH 57(38.0%). About 43(28.7%) patients with LUTS had metabolic syndrome. Significant association of metabolic syndrome was found with urinary incontinence, burning micturition, urinary urgency, UTI and BPH. The life style factors were also associated with metabolic syndrome. Significant association was found between metabolic syndrome and stressful life, alcohol consumption, consumption of vegetables and fat content in diet >2tbsp/ day, and sedentary working environment. Conclusion: The study concluded that metabolic syndrome was linked to lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Peran Orang Tua dalam Menanamkan Sikap Disiplin Anak pada Masa New Normal
Authors: Rohman Fatkhur
Published: April 2024

This study aims to analyze the role of parents in instilling discipline in children in the new normal period at SDN 373 Sikara-Kara II, Natal District, Mandailing Natal Regency. The problem focuses on three things: the role of parents, constraints and solutions. This study uses a qualitative research method with a case study approach. The research informants comprised 15 parents with different educational backgrounds and children aged 7-12 years. The study results show that parents' role in instilling discipline in children during the new normal era is manifested in several ways: making simple rules, accustoming them to an orderly life, and setting an excellent example for children. In practice, parents also experience obstacles such as; limited time for parents to accompany their children and change the habits of children who are not suitable for the better. However, parents have solutions for dealing with these obstacles, such as sharing time between the roles of both parents in instilling discipline in children in the family, giving gifts to children who can carry out the rules that have been made, and establishing communication with teachers. So, cooperation is found in instilling discipline in children both in the family and school environments.
Implementasi Metode Yanbu’a untuk Meningkatkan Kemampuan Siswa Membaca dan Menghafal Al-Qur’an
Authors: Syarifah Syarifah , Isroani Farida , Azizah Nurul , Huwaida Jaziela , Nada Nishfi Nurin
Published: April 2024

This study aims to analyze the implementation of the Yanbu’a method to improve the ability to read and memorize the Qur'an. This study focuses on three problems, namely implementation, constraints, and learning outcomes. This study examines the use of the Yanbu’a method at SMP Techno Insan Kamil Tuban, East Java. This study uses a qualitative research method with a narrative study approach. Obtaining data using observation techniques, interviews, and documentation studies. The data sources consist of research informants which include teachers and students, and the literature which includes documents of student learning achievements, and books and journals as a theoretical basis. The results of the study revealed that this method utilizes tiered volumes from volume one to volume seven, and is studied in two ways, namely classical visualization and classical volume, and by combining two hours of weekly instruction. The obstacles encountered in applying this method are differences in student abilities, lack of parental support, difficulty for teachers to understand and convey the material of gharib volume six. Student learning outcomes respond well to this method, and it is proven that 85% of students are able to read the Al-Qur'an as well as write and memorize it.
Implementasi Model Kepemimpinan Situasional Kepala Sekolah di Lembaga Pendidikan Islam: Analisis Skema, Capaian dan Hambatan
Authors: Zukhruf Wahid Muhammad , Azani Mohammad Zakki
Published: April 2024

Determining the right leadership model by the principal will lead the school to the development of quality and service. The purpose of this study was to review the practice of the situational leadership model of the principal at SMP Daarul Quran Surakarta. The research method used is phenomenology-based qualitative with data collection techniques, namely observation, interviews, and documentation. Data analysis techniques through the stages of data reduction, data exposure and conclusions. The results of the study explain that the situational leadership model of the principal is applied with four schemes, namely: 1) telling, namely the establishment of one-way contact carried out by a superior, namely the principal to his subordinates / partners regarding notification of the details of the division of tasks; 2) selling, namely the existence of two-way contact carried out by a superior, namely the principal to his subordinates / partners regarding the division of tasks; 3) participating, namely the principal includes subordinates / partners in making decrees; 4) Delegating, namely the principal delegates authority to subordinates who have sufficient competence to complete certain tasks. The applied situational leadership is successful in improving the quality of education, although there are some obstacles, namely the motivation of subordinates to follow orders is still low, understanding of leadership is still not optimal.
Hubungan Kepemimpinan Qur’ani Kepala Sekolah dan Pendidikan Nilai-Nilai Qur’an dengan Pembentukan Kepribadian Siswa
Authors: Rahmi Agustina , Madihah Husnul , Sabariah Sabariah
Published: April 2024

Efforts to maximize the role of teachers by maximizing the internal and external factors of teachers are well conditioned in order to be able to realize the formation of the personality of students. Factors that are thought to influence the formation of students' Qur'anic personality are the Qur'anic leadership of the principal and Qur'anic value education. This study aims to describe: the relationship between the principal's Qur'anic leadership, Qur'anic values education, and the formation of Qur'anic personality in HSC plus tahfiz in South Kalimantan. The research conducted was descriptive correlation with quantitative approach. In this study the population was 46 HSC plus tahfiz teachers in 2023/2024. The sample was taken as a whole, namely 46 people. Researchers used a Likert scale for data collection techniques with a questionnaire. Data analysis in this study using descriptive statistical analysis and SPSS statistics. The results of the study explained that the principal's Qur'anic leadership, Qur'anic values education, and Qur'anic Memorization Activities were positively and significantly related to the formation of Qur'anic personality at HSC Plus Tahfiz School in South Kalimantan, with a level of relationship of 76.6%. The better the three factors, the more the formation of Qur'anic personality will increase.
Esensi Ilmu Pengetahuan Perspektif Al-Qur’an: Analisis Surah al-Mujadalah Ayat 11 dan Shad Ayat 29
Authors: Nurdiyanto Nurdinyanto , Tauviqillah Ahmad , Hafidz Hafidz , Karman Karman
Published: April 2024

Islam teaches that the acquisition of knowledge boils down to the source of knowledge, namely the Qur'an. In it there is a view of science in terms of the origin of science, the subject and object of what is studied, the epistemology of science, the urgency of science with the divine tawhid system. So with regard to that, this study aims to analyze; (1) the concept of science from the perspective of the Qur'an surah Al-Mujadalah verse 11 and Shad verse 29. The research method used is qualitative based on library studies. Data collection techniques used are documentation studies using library data derived from Tafsir, journal articles, relevant books. While the data analysis technique used with descriptive analysis, then the analysis can be studied in depth. The results of the study explain that the essence of science in the Qur'an Al-Mujadalah verse 11 and the Qur'an Shad verse 29, with regard to three things, namely (1) The Search for Knowledge, where a knowledge seeker must have manners, prioritize ethics before knowledge, be serious in the learning process, establish good relations between fellow human beings. (2) the function of science, namely dhikr or remembering, fikir or thinking, and righteous deeds, (3) the application of science in all aspects of life, which aims to be spiritual and practical in everyday life.
Paradigma Tafaqquh Fiddin Perspektif Imam syafi’i dan Implikasinya dalam Merawat Tradisi Keilmuan Pendidikan Islam
Authors: Hidayat Rahmat , AK Warul Walidin , Silahuddin Silahuddin
Published: April 2024

In modern times the level of religiousness of society tends to weaken along with their focus and needs of the world. As evidence, some modern people who are less wise do not make religion a solution in their lives. Some other people are actually religious, but their understanding is only limited to the implementation of worship. In this regard, this study aims to analyze the paradigm of Tafaqquh Fiddin from Imam Syafi'i's perspective and its implications for the scientific tradition of Islamic education. This research uses a qualitative method with a library research approach. The main source of this research is the book of Al-Umm and Ar-Risalah by Imam Syafi'i, supporting sources of research articles. The results revealed that the paradigm of tafaqquh fiddin includes the obligation to study religious knowledge, the importance of maintaining and cleaning oneself from acts prohibited by religion and having good morals, choosing the right teacher who has a scientific sanad, learning in depth, being flexible in religion with the correct legal basis, teaching and practicing knowledge, and studying knowledge for the sake of Allah. Scholarly Tradition in Islamic education requires complexity in demanding knowledge, not only in terms of material, but also in terms of how to get it.
Guru di Persimpangan Kurikulum Baru: Dilema Implementasi Kurikulum Merdeka Berbasis Keislaman
Authors: Susanna Susanna , Usman Jarjani , Suyanta Sri
Published: April 2024

This research aims to analyze the dilemmas faced by Islamic educational institutions that implement the independent curriculum. The focus of the research is on implementation, and obstacles to maintaining Islamic characteristics in the latest curriculum. The research method used is qualitative, based on literature study. The data source used is the results of relevant research related to the topic, which is tracked using the publish or ferish application with a total of fifty relevant texts. Data analysis using systematic literature review. The results revealed that the Implementation of Merdeka Curriculum in Islamic Education Institutions involves the process of adapting Islamic principles in curriculum development which focuses on religious values, morals, and Islamic science. This involves preparing learning materials, teaching methods, and evaluations that are in accordance with Islamic values as well as the needs and context of the Islamic education institution. The constraints of implementing an independent curriculum in Islamic education institutions include limited resources, institutional conservatism, incompatibility with local needs, teacher and staff readiness, community and parent reactions, and performance evaluation and monitoring.
Implementasi Evaluasi Program Pendidikan Islam: Analisis Peran, Bentuk dan Kendala Kepala Sekolah
Authors: Munandar Aris , Putri Yulian Amanda , Marfuah Tina Siti , Rulbadiyah Rulbadiyah
Published: April 2024

Evaluation of the Islamic education program is the responsibility of the school principal, it aims to achieve the aspired educational goals. However, school principals often do not understand the role and forms of evaluation. This study aims to analyze the implementation of educational program evaluation at SD 92 Muara Kibul, focusing on three things, namely the role and constraints of school principals, as well as the form of program evaluation. The research method used is qualitative, with a narrative approach. Data collection used observation, interviews, and documentation studies. Data analysis through data collection, data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results revealed that the role of school principals in evaluating education programs is to design program evaluations, collect information from various sources, assess evaluation results, make improvements based on evaluation findings, involve teachers, students, and parents, build a positive attitude towards evaluation as a tool for improvement. The form of program assessment is divided into two, namely assessment according to standards and assessment based on Islamic programs. The obstacles faced are limited resources, time, lack of cooperation with external parties.
ТЕОРЕТИЧНІ ОСНОВИ КОМУНІКАЦІЙНОГО МЕНЕДЖМЕНТУ МІЖНАРОДНИХ ПІДПРИЄМСТВ
Authors: СТРІЛОК Іванна Іванівна , ЦИБКО Ростислав Олегович
Published: April 2024

Сучасні тенденції розвитку теоретичних засад комунікаційного менеджменту міжнародних підприємств свідчать про значні зміни та трансформації у цій сфері. З одного боку, усталені принципи, такі як прозорість, чіткість та повага, залишаються важливими для формування ефективних комунікаційних стратегій. З іншого боку, нові фактори, такі як цифрова трансформація, міжкультурна динаміка та етичні міркування вимагають постійної адаптації та інновацій. Глобалізація створила складний ландшафт міжнародних ринків, кожен з яких має свої культурні особливості та комунікаційні вподобання.
У статті окреслено ключові аспекти ефективного комунікаційного менеджменту в міжнародному бізнесі, серед яких створення спільної платформи для обміну інформацією, впровадження стандартів і чітких каналів комунікації, зворотний зв'язок з усіма зацікавленими сторонами та управління знаннями. Також висвітлюється роль комунікаційного менеджменту в мінімізації ризиків та підвищенні конкурентоспроможності компанії.
Досліджено, що управління комунікаціями міжнародних підприємств не статичний, а динамічний процес розвитку принципів, нових технологій та етичних положень, які постійно змінюються. Опанувавши цей складний процес, міжнародні підприємства можуть розкрити весь потенціал комунікації, налагодити зв’язок із зацікавленими сторонами, незважаючи на кордони та культури, і забезпечити своє місце у глобально взаємопов’язаному майбутньому.
Diseño estructural de los organismos públicos locales
Authors: Silvestre Pineda Alberto
Published: April 2024

El tema de los órganos de administración electoral (OAE) ha sido ampliamente estudiado en el mundo, sin embargo, su dimensión interna se ha desatendido. El objetivo de este artículo es comparar las estructuras organizativas de los 32 organismos públicos locales (OPLE) en México y observar diferencias y similitudes en la forma en que realizan sus tareas correspondientes. A través de la revisión de las constituciones, códigos o leyes electorales de cada uno de los 31 estados de la república y de la Ciudad de México se concluye que cada órgano local cuenta con estructuras diferentes para cumplir con sus atribuciones.
Las ofertas políticas de las candidatas a gubernaturas en México en 2009-2018
Authors: Sánchez Murillo Luis Fernando
Published: April 2024

En el artículo se observa la difusión de propuestas políticas en la publicidad electoral televisiva de las candidatas a gubernaturas en México. De acuerdo con diversos estudios realizados en Estados Unidos, las candidatas suelen apropiarse de ciertos temas que los electores asocian con las mujeres.

El estudio delimita el análisis a la oferta política difundida en 159 anuncios electorales producidos por el Partido Acción Nacional (PAN), el Partido Revolucionario Institucional (PRI), el Partido de la Revolución Democrática (PRD) y Movimiento Regeneración Nacional (Morena) en las elecciones de los estados de la república mexicana en 22 gubernaturas en el periodo 2009-2018. Como estrategia metodológica se efectúa un análisis de contenido circunscrito al componente verbal.
¿Cuándo se sancionan los escándalos de corrupción cometidos por el gobierno? Una explicación desde la diferencia ideológica
Authors: Aguirre Fernández Gabriela
Published: April 2024

Este trabajo analiza las consecuencias en la rendición de cuentas electoral cuando existen escándalos de corrupción cometidos por miembros del gobierno, en particular, por integrantes del Poder Ejecutivo (presidente y círculo cercano), un año antes de las elecciones presidenciales en 18 países de América Latina. El argumento principal señala que las probabilidades de sanción aumentan en la medida que incrementa la diferencia ideológica entre el partido gobernante y el principal opositor. Los resultados confirman en gran medida lo anterior. La diferencia ideológica es la variable que permite hacer una conexión entre el voto de castigo y la presencia de escándalos cometidos por integrantes del gobierno. Si esta variable no se toma en cuenta, no se encuentra ningún efecto.
uso estratégico de Facebook durante la campaña presidencial de Andrés Manuel López Obrador en México (2018)
Authors: Castro Méndez Evelyn Norma , Ocampo Viridiana Olalde
Published: April 2024

Algunos estudios sobre el uso de las redes sociodigitales en elecciones mexicanas han cuestionado que los candidatos sólo las utilicen como medio de información y no de interacción con sus seguidores, lo cual incluye a la campaña del contendiente por el Movimiento Regeneración Nacional (Morena), Andrés Manuel López Obrador, (AMLO) durante su campaña en 2018, por ello, en esta investigación se realizó una etnografía digital en Facebook, para explicar las peculiaridades de su modelo de comunicación política digital y evidenciar que, si bien el diálogo estuvo ausente, sí hubo un uso estratégico de su cuenta oficial, debido a que los contenidos con mayor engagement buscaron humanizar al aspirante y organizar a sus simpatizantes en situaciones de crisis.
Descentralización, autogobierno y rendimiento institucional: un estudio sobre la evolución del sistema político de la Comunidad de Madrid a través de la Asamblea Legislativa y del Consejo de Gobierno
Authors: Casal Oubiña Daniel , Gómez Falagán Isabel
Published: April 2024

La aprobación del Estatuto de Autonomía de la Comunidad de Madrid supuso la culminación de un proceso sui generis de acceso al autogobierno en el sistema español de organización territorial del Estado. La Comunidad de Madrid es el único caso en el que la autonomía se construye sobre la base del descarte de opciones políticas, mediante el impulso de las instituciones centrales del Estado y como consecuencia de un pacto entre los principales partidos políticos del ámbito nacional. El trabajo analiza el rendimiento del sistema político regional a partir del estudio de su diseño institucional, así como de las dinámicas de representación para determinar la coherencia entre el diseño planteado y la cultura política de la sociedad madrileña.
Clinical profile and prognosis of COVID-19 patients with neurological manifestations: A city-wide cross- sectional study in Iran
Authors: AziziKia Hani , Kia Vahid , Ilaghi Mehran , Farid Armita , Karim Bardia , Jafari Doudaran Pooya , Talebi Solmaz
Published: April 2024

Background & Objective: In this study, we aimed to evaluate past medical and social history, initial symptoms, laboratory values, clinical course, and outcome of COVID-19 patients with neurological manifestations in Shahroud, Iran.
Methods: In this cross-sectional study, data from all registered COVID-19 patients in Shahroud during March 2020 to July 2021 (n=30,228) were initially reviewed in terms of the prevalence of neurological symptoms. Additionally, the data of COVID-19 patients admitted to Shahroud’s hospital (n=8,412) was evaluated in details according to the clinical profile, socio-demographic characteristics, laboratory findings, and in-hospital outcomes. Data were compared between COVID-19 patients with and without neurological manifestations. Predictive factors of ICU admission and mortality in COVID-19 patients with neurological manifestations were also evaluated.
Results: Fever, chills, anorexia, myalgia, arthralgia, nausea, vomiting, cough, dyspnea, diarrhea and abdominal pain were significantly more common among COVID-19 patients with neurological symptoms compared to COVID-19 patients without such symptoms. Furthermore, smoking, drug abuse and history of underlying diseases were significantly more prevalent among the former group. Patients with neurological symptoms were more likely to be admitted to the hospital and ICU and had higher mortality rates. In terms of laboratory findings, hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelet count, and albumin levels were significantly lower in the patients with neurological symptoms. Age ≥ 50 years and history of underlying diseases were associated with increased ICU admission in COVID-19 patients with neurological manifestations.
Conclusions: The following strategies could prove beneficial for COVID-19 patients: (i.) reduction of smoking and substance abuse, (ii.) close monitoring of more symptomatic patients and patients with a history of underlying diseases for neurological manifestations, (iii.) providing appropriate intensive care for older patients and those with underlying diseases who have neurological manifestations and (iv.) early detection of anemia, thrombocytopenia, and hypoalbuminemia.
Adult-onset Krabbe disease manifesting as Charcot- Marie-Tooth disease
Authors: Lee Jin San , Jung Jin Ho , Seo Go Hun , You Eunkyoung , Oh Seong-il
Published: April 2024

Krabbe disease (KD) is a progressive lysosomal storage disorder characterized by the deficiency of β-galactocerebrosidase (GALC). It mainly manifests as central nervous system involvement, but peripheral nervous system damage is also found. Although it can appear as a widespread neuropathy, it is very rare to manifest in a form similar to Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT). A 34-year-old woman presented with progressive gait disturbance and foot deformity. There were no other medical or family history of abnormalities. Nerve conduction studies showed demyelinating neuropathy, and brain MRI showed white matter hyperintensities. Sequencing of PMP22 gene was normal, followed by next-generation sequencing (NGS). Potential compound heterozygous variants in the GALC gene were found; additionally a decrease in GALC enzymatic activity was confirmed, and KD was diagnosed. Although CMT has been previously diagnosed through a single genetic test, since the introduction of NGS, various genetic mutations have been identified in patients suspected of having CMT. In addition to the phenotypes mainly found in KD, other unusual phenotypes have also been found. In this case, we identified a unique clinical phenotype similar to CMT in a KD patient. We also confirmed the clinical usefulness of NGS by demonstrating in a KD patient diagnosed through NGS, who was not identified by conventional genetic mutation testing.
Adults’ knowledge levels of and attitudes toward epilepsy: a cross-sectional study in Samsun Türkiye
Authors: Kayar Vedat , Sahin Mustafa Kursat
Published: April 2024

Background & Objective: Epilepsy is not only a common neurological disorder, but also a stigmatising cause of psychosocial difficulties and discrimination. This study aimed to evaluate adults’ knowledge levels and attitudes toward epilepsy.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between August and September 2022 from four family healthcare units in Samsun, Türkiye. In the questionnaire, a personal information form, the Epilepsy Knowledge Scale (EKS), and the Epilepsy Attitude Scale (EAS) were used.
Results: Four hundred and six people participated in this study. The mean age of the participants was 39.4±13.6 years, and 54.2% were women. The mean EKS score was 9.9±3.1 (Maximum 16), and the mean EAS score was 56.8±8.9 (Maximum 70). University graduates (p=0.001), participants familiar with individuals with epilepsy (p<0.001), with epilepsy in the family (p<0.001), who had witnessed epileptic seizures (p<0.001), who had previously heard about epilepsy (p<0.001), and who had read about epilepsy (p<0.001) registered higher mean epilepsy knowledge scores. Participants over 35 (p=0.002), unmarried individuals (p<0.001), university graduates (p<0.001), the employed (p=0.008), participants with children (p<0.001), who knew individuals with epilepsy (p=0.016), with epilepsy patients in the family (p=0.023), who had witnessed epileptic seizures (p<0.001), who had previously heard of epilepsy (p=0.012), and who had read about epilepsy (p<0.001) registered higher mean attitudes to epilepsy scores. Positive attitudes toward epilepsy increased according to the level of knowledge of epilepsy (r=0.387; p<0.001).
Conclusion: The participants from Samsun, Türkiye exhibited moderate levels of knowledge about epilepsy and positive attitudes toward the disease. Increasing levels of knowledge were associated with increasingly positive attitudes toward epilepsy.
Risk factors for white matter lesions in migraine patients: Insights for prevention and management
Authors: Göçmez yılmaz Gülcan , İbrahim Arda Yılmaz  , Aynur Özge  , Merve Türkegün Şengül
Published: April 2024

Background & Objective: White matter lesions (WML) are commonly observed in cerebral Magnetic Resonance Imaging scans of individuals with migraine. However, the exact causes of these lesions in migraine patients remain unclear. This study aims to identify and assess risk factors associated with WML in migraine patients.
Methods: Our study included 63 migraine patients with and 64 patients without WML. We compared clinical characteristics and laboratory data between the two groups, including age, gender, age of migraine onset, duration of migraine disease, history of cigarette smoking, presence of hypertension, presence of an aura, attack frequency, photophobia and phonophobia.
Results: Multivariate analysis revealed that the risk of developing WML increased two times with age (odds ratio [OR] = 2.00; 95% confidence interval [CI] for OR = 1.24–3.19) and was nearly five times higher in women (OR = 4.92; 95% CI = 1.14–21.11). Compared to patients experiencing a single attack a month, those with 2-5 attacks per month had a seven-fold higher risk, while those with more than five attacks per month had a nine-fold higher risk of developing WML (OR = 7.82; 95% Cl = 1.40–43.64, 9.17; 95% CI = 1.59–52.54). Additionally, a 100-unit increase in TG levels doubled the chances of developing WML (OR = 2.22; 95% CI = 1.23-4.00).
Conclusion: This study identifies age, female gender, attack frequency, and elevated TG levels as significant risk factors for the development of WML in migraine patients. These findings provide insights for the prevention and management of WML in individuals with migraine.
Clinical, neurophysiological and genetic characteristics of Charcot-Marie-Tooth from a research center in northern China
Authors: Zhang Jingfei , Zhang Huiqiu , Zhao Fei , Chang Xueli , Wang Juan , Zhang Jing , Pang Xiaomin , Shi Jiaying , Guo Junhong , Zhang Wei
Published: April 2024

Background & Objectives: Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease is a group of hereditary sensorimotor neuropathies with a great variability of genotypes and phenotypes. The aims of the study were to provide a general perspective of the clinical manifestations and the frequency of genetic subtypes in CMT patients from a medical center in Taiyuan, northern China.
Methods: Twenty-eight unrelated CMT patients were enrolled from a research center in northern China according to the CMT diagnosis criteria formulated by De Jonghe et al. in 1998. Then multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) testing combined with next-generation sequencing (NGS) were performed among 18 of these patients.
Results: PMP22 duplications were identified in 8 patients. In addition, 2 novel mutations were detected in the GJB1 gene (c.236T>C and c.464T>C). According to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) standards and guidelines, both two GJB1 mutations were assigned as ‘likely pathogenic’. PMP22 and GJB1 were the most common causative genes in CMT1 and intermediate CMT, respectively. In addition, the first CMTX6 patient with a p.R158H mutation in the PDK3 gene was confirmed in China. Our study further shows that the p.R158H of PDK3 is likely to be a recurrent mutation.
Conclusions: The results have broadened the genetic and clinical spectrums of CMT patients, which can help facilitate the diagnosis of CMT. Despite the increasing popularity of NGS, genetic screening of large cohorts of CMT patients using NGS is still rarely performed in the Chinese population. In CMT we suggest having MLPA for PMP22 as the first tier of study followed by target NGS for those with negative MLPA findings. The deciphering of the target gene candidates can further be guided by electromyographic data.
Exploring predictors of aphasia recovery: A 6-month follow-up study in Bengali-speaking stroke patients using the Western Aphasia Battery
Authors: Pal Snigdhendu , Pal Asutosh , Pal Sandip , Palit Debanjan , Biswas Debsadhan , Roy Dilip
Published: April 2024

This study investigated the recovery of language dysfunction in 50 consecutive stroke patients over a 6-month period, employing the Bengali adaptation of the Western Aphasia Battery (B-WAB) for language assessment. The cohort, with a mean age of 58.16 year, predominantly presented with Broca’s aphasia (36%) at the initial evaluation, and moderate aphasia was prevalent (56%). Aphasia severity was quantified using Aphasia Quotient (AQ) scores, with a mean AQ of 52.16 at the first assessment. Notably, 80% of participants exhibited ischemic strokes, and cortical stroke was the most common type (44%). Follow-up assessments revealed a statistically significant improvement in mean AQ at 6 months (63.17), with 64% demonstrating ‘some recovery,’ 8% achieving ‘complete recovery,’ and 28% exhibiting ‘no recovery.’ Improvement was most notable in single-word comprehension and repetition. Factors influencing recovery were examined, revealing that male patients experienced better recovery, and the interval between the index event and the first assessment significantly impacted outcomes. Logistic regression analysis identified AQ at first assessment and the site of stroke (cortical vs. cortico- subcortical vs. pure subcortical) as significant predictors of aphasia recovery. The study contributes valuable insights into the dynamics of aphasia recovery post-stroke, emphasizing the importance of early assessment and highlighting specific factors influencing the rehabilitation process.
Serum neurofilament level as a biomarker in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Jabbar Huda Qate’a , Hassoun Hayder , Allebban Zuhair
Published: April 2024

Background & Objective: Currently, MS disease activity and neurodegeneration are assessed mainly through clinical evaluation and magnetic resonance imaging. These measures lack sensitivity and specificity, leading to a constant search for a new biomarker. Several markers have been studied, and the most promising to date is the neurofilament. Our objective was to examine the relationship between serum neurofilament levels and multiple sclerosis parameters.
Methods: Fifty-six adults who fulfilled the McDonald’s criteria 2017 for the diagnosis of MS, and forty-four healthy controls were enrolled in this study. Serum samples were collected to assess neurofilament light and heavy chain (NfL & NfH) levels using the ELISA method, the results were compared for MS patients and controls; and were also correlated to the type of MS, disease duration, EDSS (expanded disability status scale), MSSS (MS severity score) and disease activity.
Results: The mean serum NfL and NfH levels for cases were 133.3 pg/ml and 3654.5 pg/ml respectively, which are significantly higher than that for controls (NfL = 80 pg/ml; and NfH = 408.8 pg/ml; p-value < 0.001). There were no significant correlations between serum neurofilament levels and EDSS, MSSS, disease activity, type, and duration.
Conclusions: In our study, we could not find a significant role for the ELISA neurofilament serum level as a biomarker for MS disease activity and severity.
O processo civilizador e educação a distância: reflexões sobre as mudanças sociais na atualidade
Authors: Mertzig Patricia Lakchmi Leite , Santos Renata Oliveira dos , Burci Taissa Vieira Lozano , Mendonça Camila Tecla Mortean , Basso Silvia Eliane de Oliveira , Costa Maria Luisa Furlan , Oliveira Dayane Horwat Imbriani de
Published: April 2024

O presente artigo visa a pensar sobre os motivos que levam alguns indivíduos a buscarem um conhecimento formal por meio da Educação a Distância (EaD) em relação ao ensino presencial. Essa modalidade de aprendizagem, que, atualmente, conta com o uso das Tecnologias Digitais de Informação e Comunicação (TDIC), tem conquistado um espaço cada vez mais significativo nas relações de ensino e aprendizagem, firmando-se como uma alternativa inclusiva no Brasil. Para tanto, a reflexão será norteada a partir da observação do processo civilizador defendido por Norbert Elias (1993; 2001; 2011), no qual o autor apresenta a sociedade de corte, na Idade Moderna, como fruto de uma mudança de comportamentos sociais. O que se pretende, neste trabalho, é traçar possíveis relações existentes na mudança de comportamento observada na sociedade de corte, bem como a função da escola e da universidade no período, com o intuito de compará-la ao ensino ofertado pela modalidade de Educação a Distância, como fruto de uma transformação do comportamento na sociedade contemporânea. Para tanto, a pesquisa utiliza abordagem teórica e documental, quando observa o quantitativo de estudantes da EaD por meio do censo de 2022. O texto apresenta a sociedade de corte, bem como seu espaço escolar e universitário, a partir dos conceitos de sociogênese e psicogênese propostos por Elias (2011). Na sequência, observa a sociedade atual e a EaD e relaciona esta às mudanças sociais tal qual ocorreu no período anterior. Conclui que a abordagem de Elias contribui para refletir sobre novos padrões de comportamento em relação ao acesso ao conhecimento por meio da EaD, que, assim como na sociedade de corte, o momento atual entende que aceitar um novo hábito de viver requer do indivíduo uma mudança de mentalidade.
Educação intercultural e material didático: diagnóstico da educação escolar indígena do Rio Grande do Norte
Authors: Silva Lucas Matheus da , Vieira José Glebson , Silva Marcos Luan da , Brandão Daniel Souza , Oliveira João Marcos Rocha de , Linhares Silas Tibério Pereira
Published: April 2024

O presente trabalho de pesquisa realiza um diagnóstico acerca da educação escolar indígena no Rio Grande do Norte, focando na questão da educação intercultural e nos materiais didáticos como parâmetros de análise. O objetivo deste estudo é examinar a educação escolar em comunidades indígenas no RN, com foco na análise dos materiais didáticos utilizados no processo de ensino-aprendizagem pelos docentes e discentes da educação infantil. Para alcançar esse propósito, empreendeu-se uma revisão de literatura específica, orientada a partir de trabalhos de pesquisa que envolveram o próprio campo empírico, no que tange à temática da educação intercultural indígena e à formação de educadores indígenas. Esta pesquisa foi conduzida por meio de discussões teóricas, conceituais e metodológicas, realizadas por um grupo de estudos sobre territorialidade, interculturalidade e educação escolar indígena. Outro recurso metodológico adotado para a construção deste artigo foi uma coleta de dados por meio da imersão em campo, na qual foram realizadas visitas em oito escolas administradas por cinco municípios do Estado Potiguar, o que permitiu a realização de entrevistas semiestruturadas com professores, gestores e lideranças indígenas. Assim como observações concretas quanto aos materiais didáticos presentes no cotidiano escolar de cada instituição. De modo consequente, este exame diagnosticou que as reivindicações recorrentes dos educadores indígenas do Rio Grande do Norte incluem a necessidade de regularização e caracterização de algumas escolas indígenas nas comunidades, a urgência da implementação de uma licenciatura intercultural indígena, a formação continuada de profissionais ativos e a produção de materiais didáticos que reflitam a realidade de seus povos.
O processo de ensino-aprendizagem nos campi inteligentes: uma revisão sistemática da literatura
Authors: Alexandre Francisco de Assis Souza , Alexandria Auzuir Ripardo de
Published: April 2024

O principal objetivo de um campus universitário é fornecer educação de qualidade e facilitar o processo do ensino e da aprendizagem, por isso deve ser uma prioridade para qualquer campus ter soluções inteligentes e confiáveis para melhoraria desse processo. Nesse contexto, surgem os campi inteligentes, representando uma área de pesquisa emergente e inovadora. Eles utilizam a tecnologia e a infraestrutura para apoiar e melhorar os processos e os serviços do campus, no ensino, na aprendizagem e na pesquisa. Porém, ainda existem diversos questionamentos acerca do tema. Assim, este artigo propõe uma revisão sistemática da literatura (RSL) com o objetivo de levantar projetos de campi inteligentes envolvendo o processo de ensino-aprendizagem. A pesquisa selecionou artigos das bases de conhecimento Web of Science (WoS), Scopus e Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), publicados entre 2020 e 2022. A análise revelou que os projetos na área se encontram bastante dispersos, que não há ainda um consenso entre os pesquisadores sobre o conceito de campus inteligente, que há o emprego intensivo de tecnologias para a implementação e o desenvolvimento dos campi inteligentes, que não estão claros os reais benefícios do uso das tecnologias nos campi inteligentes para o processo de ensino-aprendizagem e que as pesquisas pouco abordam a relação entre os campi inteligentes e as metodologias ativas de ensino. Os resultados obtidos nesta pesquisa podem fornecer orientação estratégica para as instituições educacionais, permitir que as universidades melhorem a experiência e o desempenho dos alunos, promover o engajamento da comunidade, além de inspirar pesquisadores a contribuírem para o avanço do conhecimento sobre o processo de ensino-aprendizagem nos campi inteligentes.
Indicadores de desempenho e CPC: subsídio para boas práticas de gestão universitária
Authors: Francisco Thiago Henrique Almino , Feiden Bruna Jaime , Cruz Nathalia Cirne Diniz , Moré Rafael Pereira Ocampo , Melo Pedro Antonio de , Moser Giancarlo
Published: April 2024

Este estudo investiga como dois importantes indicadores, conhecidos como ENADE e CPC, influenciam a forma como as universidades são administradas e a qualidade do ensino que oferecem, concentrando-se em cursos específicos como Pedagogia, Educação Física e Artes Visuais. O objetivo principal é entender se o desempenho dos alunos nestas áreas está alinhado com o que é esperado deles, de acordo com as diretrizes educacionais. Para isso, os pesquisadores escolheram analisar os dados de uma universidade localizada no sul do estado de Santa Catarina, utilizando uma abordagem que permitiu explorar as informações disponíveis de maneira detalhada. Há um olhar para as médias de desempenho dos alunos e quão envolvidos eles estavam ao responder questionários que buscam entender melhor suas condições socioeconômicas. Os resultados do estudo apontam para a importância de as universidades adotarem práticas administrativas que realmente ajudem a alinhar o conteúdo dos cursos com as habilidades e conhecimentos que os alunos deveriam estar adquirindo. Isso é crucial para melhorar o nível da educação oferecida e garantir que as decisões tomadas pelas universidades sejam baseadas em informações confiáveis e relevantes. O artigo destaca como a atenção cuidadosa aos indicadores de desempenho, como ENADE e CPC, pode levar a melhorias significativas na qualidade do ensino. Ao entender melhor onde os cursos estão alinhados com as expectativas e onde há lacunas, as universidades podem fazer mudanças que beneficiem tanto os alunos quanto os próprios cursos. O estudo sugere que uma boa administração universitária, que leve em conta uma avaliação contínua de como os alunos estão se saindo e quão bem os cursos estão preparando-os para suas carreiras futuras, é essencial. Isso não apenas ajuda a manter um alto padrão de educação, mas também prepara os alunos de maneira mais eficaz para os desafios que encontrarão no ambiente de trabalho.
O manejo integrado de pragas como estratégica de inovação para o desenvolvimento sustentável – um estudo de caso na empresa monsanto em Petrolina / PE
Authors: Cisneiros Artur Carlos Guerra , Sales Paulo Henrique Pessoa de , Ribeiro Filho Zacarias Lourenço Vaz , Clementino Valdner Daízio Ramos
Published: April 2024

O desenvolvimento de novas tecnologias como fator de diferencial competitivo é um tema-chave, tanto quanto recorrente nas últimas décadas, no mundo corporativo. A inovação, como ferramenta de gestão, também está ligada a pequenas medidas que podem ser tomadas para melhoria nos processos organizacionais e tecnológicos, como aspecto transformador, responsável pela implementação de mecanismos indutores de mudança e adaptação das empresas, sobretudo do agronegócio, que vivem em busca por serem, cada vez mais, eficientes e eficazes, através de propostas inovadoras, para atender as novas exigências do meio envolvente. Nesse contexto, a inovação se dá através de medidas que são tomadas de forma quotidiana, pelas empresas, visando a melhoria nos processos internos e a satisfação dos clientes finais, adaptando a mesma, por fim, às novas exigências de mercado. Este artigo buscou desenvolve o tema gestão estratégica da inovação tecnológica, tendo como objeto de estudo “O Manejo Integrado de Pragas” desenvolvido e adotado nas unidades da empresa Monsanto de Petrolina sob a lente da estratégia de inovação. As notórias dificuldades de inclusão de temas de sustentabilidade na gestão é uma justificativa relevante para o desenvolvimento do estudo. Para isso foi adotado, como método, o estudo de caso de forma exploratória, leituras de artigos, consultas bibliográficas, focada nos conceitos de inovação tecnológica, estratégia de inovação no agronegócio, e agricultura sustentável e MIP, bem como entrevistas com gestores da companhia. Como resultado foram observados impactos positivos em alguns indicadores definidos pela empresa estudada tais como: tempo, custo, qualidade e meio ambiente. Finalizando, destaca-se o estimulo para a promoção nas mudanças da aplicação tradicional do monitoramento, com vistas ao aumento da produtividade e à redução de custo.
Predicting Loan Default: A Comparative Analysis of Multiple Machine Learning Models
Authors: Jiang Yuelin
Published: April 2024

Financial decision-making, particularly in loan approval, requires precise risk prediction. To enhance the prediction accuracy, this study utilizes various machine learning models, namely Logistic Regression, XGBoost, an Artificial Neural Network (ANN), and a hybrid XGBoost + Logistic Regression (XGB+LR). These models were selected based on their unique capacities to capture complex patterns and relationships within the data, thereby potentially improving the loan default prediction task. The training and validation of these models were performed on a meticulously prepared dataset, following crucial preprocessing steps such as one-hot encoding, feature selection, and scaling. To ensure the models' optimal performance, intensive hyperparameter tuning was conducted. The application of these techniques resulted in a robust set of models. Each model's performance was rigorously evaluated through established metrics, including the Area Under the ROC Curve (AUC) and Accuracy (ACC). Among these models, the XGBoost model demonstrated superior predictive power, achieving an AUC of 0.798 and an ACC of 0.861 on the validation set. A detailed feature importance analysis using the XGBoost model further revealed that Credit_Score and Loan_Amount were the primary factors impacting loan approval decisions. Despite slight overfitting observed in the models, the results confirm the potential of machine learning in improving financial decision-making processes. This study sets the foundation for future advancements, which may include the application of advanced regularization techniques, further hyperparameter optimization, and the inclusion of a broader feature set.
Research on The Efficiency of Mixed Commodities Classification based on Deep Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Cao Ruiqi
Published: April 2024

With the wide application of deep learning in the field of image classification, the application of this technology in daily life has become more popular. In this context, self-service shopping based on deep learning makes people's lives more convenient. This paper extends the classification and identification of fruit and vegetable classes, which in turn investigates the classification of mixed commodities. This study aims to compare the performance of three widely used models, VGG, DenseNet, and ResNet, on a mixed commodities dataset. This research focuses on evaluating each model's performance on this dataset and determines which is the most suitable for this task. The study found that the accuracy levels of these three models varied. The training set's accuracy reached 0.91 for VGG16, 0.86 for Densenet201, and 0.74 for Resnet50. The validation set's accuracy reached 0.84 for VGG16, 0.87 for Densenet201, and 0.77 for Resnet50. In this study, DenseNet has performed relatively well and is more suitable for the mixed commodities dataset. The experiment has shown that to fulfill the high-efficiency requirements of self-checkout, the model shortcut can effectively save time and prevent the phenomenon of overfitting. Based on repeated experiments, it can be concluded that the data in the dataset used for self-service shopping model training should highlight its features and reduce the influence of background noise and other noises that may affect model training.