bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Road vehicle collision suicide in Australia: Trends, collision types, and individual characteristics
Authors: Law Phillip C. F. , Too Lay San , Spittal Mathew J. , Pirkis Jane , Clapperton Angela J.
Published: April 2024

Background

Suicide by road vehicle collision in Australia is under-explored with mixed findings. We aimed to address this research gap by examining time trends, different types of vehicle collision, and individual characteristics related to vehicle-collision suicide.

Method

We retrospectively analyzed deaths by suicide between 1st January 2001 and 31st December 2017 in Australia, using coronial records from the National Coronial Information System. The travel mode used and collision counterpart were retrieved from records of death by vehicle-collision suicide using all available information. We conducted negative binomial regression analysis to examine annual changes in suicide rate by vehicle collision on a public road (N = 640) and other methods of suicide (N = 41,890), and logistic regression analysis to examine individual characteristics associated with the likelihood of dying by suicide via road vehicle collision.

Results

Overall, the national suicide rate involving road vehicle collision significantly increased, while the rate by other methods significantly decreased. Drivers accounted for 61% of suicide events by vehicle collision, of which 72% were single-vehicle collisions (commonly involving a tree). For multiple-vehicle collision suicide events, 82% involved collision with a truck. Pedestrians accounted for more than one-third of suicide events, of which 58% involved collision with a truck and 23% involved collision with a car/van. Individuals who were male (odds ratio 1.15; 95% CI 0.88–1.50), aged <25 years old (odds ratio 5.27; 95% CI 3.05–9.10), non-Indigenous (odds ratio 3.36; 95% CI 1.71–6.62), and born overseas (odds ratio 1.40; 95% CI 1.10–1.79) were more likely to die by vehicle-collision suicide than by other methods of suicide.

Conclusions

This study provides a better understanding of road vehicle collision suicide in Australia and informs future research directions on topic. Our findings can be used to inform suicide prevention initiatives to reduce vehicle-collision suicide deaths.
The association of EGFR amplification with aberrant exon 20 insertion report using the cobas EGFR Mutation Test v2
Authors: Zhang Man-San , Yeh Yi-Chen , Huang Hsien-Neng , Lin Long-Wei , Huang Yen-Lin , Wang Lei-Chi , Yao Lai-Jin , Hung Tze-Chun , Tseng Yu-Fen , Lee Yi-Hsuan , Liao Wei-Yu , Shih Jin-Yuan , Hsieh Min-Shu
Published: April 2024

Determining the exact type of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) exon 20 insertion (ex20ins) mutation in lung cancer has become important. We found that not all ex20ins mutations reported by cobas EGFR test v2 could be validated by Sanger sequencing even using surgical specimens with high tumor contents. This study aimed to validate the ex20ins results reported by the cobas test and to determine whether there were clinicopathological factors associated with aberrant cobas ex20ins report. In total, 123 cobas-reported cases with ex20ins were retrospectively collected and validated by Sanger sequencing and Idylla assay. Clinicopathological features between ex20ins cobas+/Sanger+ group (n = 71) and cobas+/Sanger− group (n = 52) were compared. The Idylla assay detected ex20ins in 82.6% of cobas+/Sanger+ cases but only in 4.9% of cobas+/Sanger− cases. The cobas+/Sanger− group was significantly associated with higher tumor contents, poorly differentiated patterns, tumor necrosis, and a lower internal control cycle threshold value reported by the Idylla which suggesting the presence of increased EGFR gene copy numbers. EGFR fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) revealed the majority of cobas+/Sanger− group had EGFR high copy number gain (16%) or amplification (76%) according to the Colorado criteria. Among cases reported to have concomitant classic EGFR and ex20ins mutations by the cobas, the classic EGFR mutations were all detected by Sanger sequencing and Idylla, while the ex20ins mutations were undetected by Sanger sequencing (0%) or rarely reported by Idylla assay (3%). FISH revealed high EGFR copy number gain (17.9%) and amplification (79.5%) in cases reported having concomitant classic EGFR and ex20ins mutations by the cobas. This study demonstrated an unusually high frequency of EGFR amplification in cases with aberrant cobas ex20ins report which could not be validated by Sanger sequencing or Idylla assay. Ex20ins reported by the cobas test should be validated using other methods especially those reported having concomitant ex20ins and classic EGFR mutations.
Individual and community empowerment improve resource users’ perceptions of community-based conservation effectiveness in Kenya and Tanzania
Authors: Fidler Robert Y. , Mahajan Shauna L. , Ojwang Lenice , Obiene Samson , Nicolas Tanguy , Ahmadia Gabby N. , Slade Lorna , Obura David O. , Beatty Hope , Mohamed Juma , Kawaka Joan , Harborne Alastair R.
Published: April 2024

Community-based conservation has been increasingly recognized as critical to achieve both conservation and socio-economic development goals worldwide. However, the long-term sustainability of community-based conservation programs is dependent on a broadly shared perception among community members that management actions are achieving their stated goals. Thus, understanding the underlying factors driving differences in perceptions of management effectiveness can help managers prioritize the processes and outcomes most valued by resource users and thereby promote sustained support for conservation efforts. Here, we utilize large-scale interview survey data and machine learning to identify the factors most strongly associated with differences in perceived management effectiveness between resource users engaged in marine community-based conservation programs in Kenya and Tanzania. Perceptions of management effectiveness were generally favorable in both countries, and the most important predictors of positive perceptions were associated with community and individual empowerment in resource management and use, but within disparate focal domains. Improved perceptions of management effectiveness in Kenya were closely related to increases in women’s empowerment in community-based conservation programs, while inclusionary and transparent governance structures were the most important factors driving improved perceptions in Tanzania. Additionally, the strongest predictors of differences between individuals in both countries often interacted synergistically to produce even higher rates of perceived effectiveness. These findings can help future initiatives in the region tailor management to match community-level priorities and emphasize the need for community-based conservation programs to understand local context to ensure that metrics of “success” are aligned with the needs and desires of local resource users.
The financial risk of real estate combined factor analysis with grey prediction in Liaoning Province
Authors: Yuan Jian-Lin , Jing Nan
Published: April 2024

The importance of real estate development has been widely accepted by all countries. Through early warning and avoidance of real estate financial risks, it can effectively promote the healthy and healthy development of the real estate industry, avoiding the impact of accidental factors, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and promoting the overall economic development. Based on multiple regression analysis and grey prediction methods, this article constructs a real estate financial risk estimation model, and the real estate financial risk is estimated using the relevant data of Liaoning Province from 2001 to 2020. Analyzing the research results of financial risks in Liaoning Province, we can find that the real estate financial risks reached the peak in 2013, and then the real estate financial risks gradually showed a slow decline trend. In general, the financial risks in Liaoning Province are controllable. The study of financial risks in Liaoning Province will help to judge the development of the real estate industry and promote the continuous improvement of the overall economy. The article, through the study of real estate financial risks in Liaoning Province, can promote the development of regional real estate in Liaoning Province and promote the overall economic development of Liaoning Province, which has strong practical significance. The study of real estate financial risks, relevant risk research theories can be enriched, the identification of financial risks can be improved, and the study of real estate financial risks can be strengthened. The article uses a combination of multivariate statistics and grey fuzzy theory to complete the study of real estate financial risks. Therefore, through the exploration of multivariate statistics and grey fuzzy theory, its application value can be elevated.
Patient-perceived factors influencing physical activity sensor use in stroke prevention and rehabilitation: A thematic synthesis protocol
Authors: Harris Paul T. , Maine Ingrid
Published: April 2024

Introduction

While the putative benefits of “fitness trackers” continue to fuel a booming consumer market, results of device-based clinical interventions remain remarkably mixed. This study will explore factors influencing wearable physical activity (PA) sensor use in the context of stroke prevention and rehabilitation for older adults. The findings of this thematic synthesis will provide insights into factors influencing the use of PA sensors in stroke which may inform more effective device-based interventions.

Methods and analysis

Thematic synthesis as a formal method described by Thomas and Arden can be used within a systematic review to synthesize primary qualitative research. Accordingly, the proposed study will systematically search bibliographic databases for relevant peer-reviewed papers and synthesize coded thematic data within included papers. The quality of papers will be assessed using the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Qualitative Research. Patterns in the text will be coded, preliminary data visualised, and higher-level analytical themes discerned to explain factors influencing the use of PA sensors in older stroke patients.

Discussion

This study does not require ethics approval. Results are expected to be available by June 2024. Data from the thematic synthesis will provide insights into barriers and facilitators influencing the use of wearable PA sensors in stroke and older adults at risk, and implications these factors have for the design of effective device-based interventions.

Trial registration

Systematic review registration: PROSPERO registration number: CRD42020211472. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42020211472.
The mental health prognosis of offspring born of genocidal rape is influenced by family members, the community and their perceptions toward them
Authors: Nyirandamutsa Fortunée , Niyonsenga Japhet , Lisette Gaju Kethina , Izabayo Josias , Kambibi Emilienne , Munderere Samuel , Sebuhoro Célestin , Muhayisa Assoumpta , Vincent Sezibera
Published: April 2024

Background

There is little known about the family and community maltreatment of the offspring born of the genocidal rape and the offspring’s self-perceptions and how they influence their recovery from mental health problems. This study aimed to examine how the mental health prognosis of these offspring could be influenced by the family or community perceptions and attitudes toward them and their self-perception and coping strategies.

Methods

Thirty-two semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted on 16 dyads of mothers and their offspring who were selected from countrywide. The interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatims that were analysed inductively using thematic analysis within the NVivo 12 software.

Results

Participants reported long-term psychological and psychosomatic consequences stemming from being born of genocidal rape. Notably, family and community maltreatment of the offspring and their self-perception exacerbated psychological distress and affected their capacity to recover. The majority of the offspring were using coping strategies such as sole collaboration with peers with the same history, efforts to hide their birth history, social Isolation (silence, untrusting, involvement in media etc), hardworking, reversed roles in the parental relationship, extreme involvement in praying, and harmful alcohol use.

Conclusion

Given the documented detrimental effects of individual, family and community attitudes and perceptions on psychological, and psychosomatic symptoms as well as the offspring coping strategies, culturally relevant mental health interventions are required to support the well-being and social reintegration of individuals born of genocidal rape while minimizing stigma and their maladaptive coping strategies.
Green Synthesis and Characterization of CaO Nanoparticles using Hen Eggshells and its Impact on Biomass Concentration, Chlorophyll-a and Lipid Content of Chlorella sp.
Authors: Pahariya Richa , Chauhan Abhishek , Ranjan Anuj , Pathak Vinay Mohan , Tuli Hardeep Singh , Shahwan Moyad , Basniwal Rupesh Kumar , Upadhyay Sumant , Jindal Tanu
Published: April 2024

Biodegradable wastes e.g. the outer cover of a boiled hen egg generally haphazardly discarded by humans in different locations of the country and generates problems for the local creatures. Although different researchers reported different methods to utilize the waste through the nanotechnological approach. Here, green synthesis of calcium oxide (CaO) nanoparticles from the hen eggshells was  carried out and characterized them by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer (UV). Further application of the synthesized nanoparticles was done on Chlorella sp. to investigate the impact on algal growth, lipid and chlorophylls. Synthesized CaO nanoparticles were applied in different concentration (0, 10, 20 and 30 mg L–1) and readings were monitored for 20 days. The highest biomass concentration 242.56 mg L–1 was achieved for the nanoparticle concentration of 20 mg L–1 and the lipid content increased up  to 35.71% in 20 mg L–1. These results pave the way for enhanced algal biofuel production.
Correlation of Electrical Conductivity and Microstructure with the Band Gap of Oxysulfide Glass-Ceramics for Na-Ion Battery
Authors: Jha Paramjyot Kumar , Singla Gourav , Khan Savidh , Nagpal Pardeep Kumar
Published: April 2024

In the present investigation, a glass-ceramics with the composition of xNa2S + (100–x)P2S5, where x = 40, 45, 50 and 55, were successfully synthesized by employing the melt-quenching method. Comprehensive characterization of the glass-ceramic samples was conducted using X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-visible spectroscopy, impedance spectroscopy (IS) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) techniques. The XRD analysis revealed the presence of three distinct phases, namely NaPO3, Na2S2O3 and Na3PS4, in all samples. Significantly, NaPO3 and Na2S2O3 exhibited an orthorhombic crystal structure, while Na3PS4 displayed a tetragonal crystal structure. The densities of the synthesized samples fell within the range of 2.24 to 2.35 g/cc, surpassing those of Li2S-based solid electrolytes commonly used in portable devices. The band gap of the materials varied from 2.99 to 3.60 eV. Significantly, an inverse relationship between Na2S content (modifier) and band gap was observed, indicating a decrease in band gaps with increasing Na2S content. This phenomenon is beneficial for enhancing ionic conductivity. At ambient temperature, samples with x values of 50 and 55 demonstrated remarkable conductivity on the order of 10-4 S cm-1. Overall, the synthesized glass ceramics exhibit promising features, such as higher density compared to conventional Li2S-based solid electrolytes and favourable band gap values, suggesting their potential application in enhancing ionic conductivity for various electronic devices.
Metal-Ligand Coordination Driven Di/Tri-nuclear Helicate and Mesocate: A Brief Review
Authors: Akhuli Bidyut
Published: April 2024

Helicity is a geometric motif that can be observed in nature as well as artificial structures. In synthetic supramolecular architectures, helicity can be incorporated by conformational restrictions of macromolecules, inter- or intra- molecular hydrogen bonds or coordination to metal ions. In present brief review, the discussions will be restricted on the metal-ligand coordination driven self-assembled di/tri-nuclear helical structures. Furthermore, the chirality of the helical structures is enlightened, which arises due to preferential orientation of the ligand strands around the metal centers that comprise the formation of two type helicates, one is homo-chiral helicate and the other is hetero-chiral helicate or mesocate.
Synthesis, Characterization and in vitro Antimicrobial Activity of Organotellurium Decorated 10-Membered Tetraazamacrocyclic Complexes of Cobalt(II)
Authors: Maurya Chandan , Bajpai Sangeeta , Kushwaha Pramod Kumar , Chand Umesh , Singh Sunita
Published: April 2024

Three novel organotellurium decorated 10-membered tetraazamacrocyclic complexes of Co(II) were synthesized using template condensation of 1,1-diiodo-1-telluracyclopentane, 1,1-diodo-2-methyl-1-telluracyclopentane and 1,1-diiodo-1,1-diethyltellurium(IV) with 1,2-diaminopropane and cobalt dichloride hexahydrate in dry methanol in 2:2:1 molar ratio. The characterization of the synthesized cobalt(II) complexes was carried out using elemental analysis, spectroscopic studies (IR, proton NMR & proton decoupled carbon NMR) and molar conductance measurements. The results of these studies suggested that the complexes may be formulated as [CoLCl2] where L = {C4H8Te-(NHCH2CH(CH3)NH)}2, {C4H7(CH3)Te(NHCH2CH(CH3)NH)}2 and {(C2H5)2Te(NHCH2CH(CH3)NH)}2. The synthesized complexes were also screened for antimicrobial activity using broth microdilution and agar disc diffusion methods.
Microwave Assisted Benzoin Condensation using N,N-Dimethylbenzimidazolium Iodide as an Efficient Greener Catalyst in Neutral Ionic Liquid [Bmim]BF4
Authors: Phungpis Baramee , Noppawan Pakin , Worawut Kanokkan
Published: April 2024

The utilization of N,N-dimethylbenzimidazolium iodide as a catalyst in [Bmim]BF4 for benzoin condensation under microwave irradiation demonstrates its efficiency and eco-friendliness. This method enables the synthesis of α-hydroxy carbonyl compounds from various aromatic and heteroaromatic aldehydes with significant yields, ranging from good to high (89-96%). The reactions proceed swiftly, yielding no detectable byproducts. Moreover, the recycled reaction media, comprising benzimidazolium salt and NaOH after extraction, can be reused multiple times without a significant loss of efficiency.
Political Polarisation, Social Exclusion, and Violence Against Foreigners: A Death Knell for the Inbound Tourism Industry in India
Authors: Tikhute Vishal , Chattaraj Balaka
Published: April 2024

Safety in the destination country is the key determining factor that shapes the travel decisions of potential tourists. India, with its cultural heritage, has been a preferred destination for foreign tourists. However, emerging political polarisation and a rise in human rights violations have raised concerns over the safety of foreigners visiting India. Recently, an increase in instances of attacks on foreign tourists has been reported in India. Such attacks have become a major concern for international travellers, bloggers, media, agencies working with refugees and migrants, and experts in the tourism industry. Despite being a widely discussed topic across news platforms, foreigner safety and underlying political situations have been scarcely discussed in literature. To address this gap, we have reviewed reports from different government agencies, international media, and non-profit organisations. This study presented a situational analysis of inbound tourism and the political scenario shaping its future in India. We found that growing political polarisation and nationalist movements have led to gender, religion, and racial violence against foreigners. Multiple layers of social exclusion, discrimination, and pro-nationalist sentiments have been discussed. The combined effect of these issues is detrimental to foreigners safety and the overall inbound tourism industry in India.
Response of sunflower seeds (Helianthus annuus L.) to different concentrations of metals and doses of gamma radiation (241Am)
Authors: Silva Luis Felippe de Oliveira , Sharma Porshia , Menezes Filho Antonio Carlos Pereira de , Melo Aurélio Ferreira , Ventura Matheus Vinícius Abadia
Published: April 2024

The sunflower crop (Helianthus annuus L.) presents great tolerance to heavy metals and in pre-determined doses of gamma (γ) radiation it presents gains in plant increments. This study aimed to evaluate the response to doses of γ radiation and different concentrations of toxic metals in the vegetative development of sunflower. Mirasol sunflower seeds were subjected to different doses of 241Am γ rays and concentrations of Aluminum, Cerium and Copper (mg L-1). Sunflower plants were evaluated only in the vegetative period for germination, aerial length, root length, aerial and root fresh mass, aerial and root dry mass. The doses of γ radiation promoted increases in the variables in the vegetative phase, especially for 5 and 10 minutes of exposure to γ rays. The concentrations of the toxic elements Al and Ce showed significant differences in all increments, however, doses higher than 85 mg L-1 demonstrated losses in length and mass of sunflower plants. For the Cu element, the doses did not have a significant effect, these being non-significant and the cultivar Mirasol resistant. Future studies should be carried out evaluating the reproductive phase and its gains in increasing biomass and production.
Zusammenhalt der Generationen?
Authors: Ellerich-Groppe Niklas , Pfaller Larissa , Schweda Mark
Published: April 2024

Niklas Ellerich-Groppe, Larissa Pfaller und Mark Schweda legen eine Analyse intergenerationeller Solidarität und Verantwortung in öffentlichen Diskursen während der Corona-Pandemie aus soziologischer und ethischer Perspektive vor. Nach einem Überblick über die einschlägigen Debatten während der Pandemie nehmen sie zunächst eine moralphilosophische Klärung beider Konzepte und ihrer normativen Vorannahmen vor. Sodann analysieren sie drei Fälle aus dem politischen, zivilgesellschaftlichen und medialen Diskurs. Dabei können sie die normativen Prämissen, Ambiguitäten und stereotypen Annahmen über Alter(n) und Generationenbeziehungen im Zusammenhang mit Solidarität und Verantwortung in diesen Debatten herausarbeiten. Ihre Analyse bietet damit Einsichten in die moralische Konstitution intergenerationeller Verhältnisse in spätmodernen Gesellschaften.
Influencing nach Geschlecht
Authors: Och Anastasia-Patricia
Published: April 2024

Influencer*innen in den sozialen Medien sprechen ihre Fans auf persönlicher Ebene an, denn nur so sind ihre Produktempfehlungen glaubwürdig. Doch inwiefern thematisieren sie dabei auch das Gender ihrer Follower*innen? Anastasia-Patricia Och liefert Einblicke in die multimodale Gestaltung von YouTube-Videos erfolgreicher Influencer*innen und in die Mediennutzung Jugendlicher, die sowohl während als auch nach der Rezeption gegenderte Praktiken umfasst. Im Fokus ihrer parainteraktiven und genderbezogenen Analyse stehen Beauty-Videos und FIFA-Let's-Plays. Außerdem kommen Jugendliche zu ihren Erfahrungen mit diesen Formaten und ihrem eigenen Umgang mit YouTube zu Wort.
La vivencia de la ciudadanía en un sistema escolar segregado: Experiencias curriculares en ciudadanía de jóvenes que estudiaron en colegios chilenos de distintas dependencia y modalidad
Authors: Gazmuri-Stein Renato , Toledo-Jofré María , Villalón-Gálvez Gabriel , Moraleda-Albornoz Eliana
Published: April 2024

En este artículo se presentan los resultados de una investigación cualitativa con enfoque biográfico que profundizó en las experiencias curriculares en ciudadanía de jóvenes que realizaron su educación secundaria en Chile en establecimientos de distinta dependencia y modalidad, en distintos contextos socioeconómicos, en un período de importantes movilizaciones estudiantiles (2015-2020). Para rescatar estas experiencias se realizaron cinco talleres de intercambio de experiencias curriculares en ciudadanía, uno por cada dependencia (establecimientos municipales, particulares subvencionados y particulares pagados) y modalidad (técnico-profesional y científico-humanistas). En estos talleres participaron 56 jóvenes de entre 20 y 25 años. Para analizar la información producida se aplicó un análisis colaborativo de datos cualitativos. Los resultados muestran que los distintos tipos de establecimientos promueven distintos tipos de ciudadanías con distintas concepciones de la ciudadanía y su ejercicio, y que esas diferencias se relacionan tanto con elementos socioeconómicos como ideológicos.
Book review of: Franz, Yvonne; Heintel, Martin (Hrsg.) (2022): Kooperative Stadt- und Regionalentwicklung
Authors: Zimmermann Thomas
Published: April 2024

Buchrezension
Parent Opinions Regarding The Services Received In Special Education And Rehabilitation Centers For Individuals With Multiple Disabilities
Authors: Çay Evgin , Eldeniz Çetin Müzeyyen , Alak Melike
Published: April 2024

Individuals with multiple disabilities (MD) could receive services from different institutions throughout their lives. One of these institutions is Special Education and Rehabilitation Centers. Special Education and Rehabilitation Centers provide various services to individuals with MD. The quality of these services affects the quality of life of both the children with MD and their parents. Therefore, this study aims to determine the views of parents on the services received by the individuals with MD from Special Education and Rehabilitation Centers. Eleven female and two male parents participated in this study. The study was designed with the phenomenology pattern, one of the qualitative research methods, and data were collected with the semi-structured interview technique. The interviews lasted between 12 and 18 minutes. The data obtained from the interviews was analyzed with the descriptive analysis technique. The findings showed that parents receive various support services from Special Education and Rehabilitation Centers for both themselves and the individuals with MD, they were very content with the education and physiotherapy services provided by the institutions, and these services were very effective and beneficial for their children and themselves. In addition, it was concluded that the duration of the education services provided was too short and insufficient for their children that the state should support such institutions and that they wanted their children to be hired in a job within their competence.
Work Engagement: A Descriptive Qualitative Study on the perception of teachers
Authors: Tortosa Martínez Begoña María , Pérez Fuentes María del Carmen , Molero Jurado María del Mar
Published: April 2024

Work engagement is a state of mental motivation that allows workers to achieve success in the workplace. However, due to high work demands and exhaustion, teachers might find it difficult to engage in work. Teachers can develop work engagement if they intervene in the barriers that prevent them from doing their work by providing facilitators. The aim of this study was to describe teachers' perceptions of work engagement at different stages of education. A descriptive qualitative study was designed. Four focus groups were conducted with a total of 26 Spanish teachers. Three main themes and six sub-themes emerged from the analysis of the data: (1) Causes of the generation of work engagement: personal facilitators and facilitators of the environment; (2) Barriers to generating work engagement: individual and environmental; (3) Effects of work engagement: positive consequences and negative consequences. These findings indicate that there are several facilitators and barriers that promote and/or hinder the generation of work engagement in Spanish teachers. However, it should be noted that the study presents transferable results for other countries dealing with similar issues. In conclusion, training teachers in certain skills would improve their ability to solve complex situations and increase their levels of work engagement.
Examining Preschool Children’s Perceptions of School
Authors: Kesicioğlu Oğuz Serdar
Published: April 2024

The study employed a qualitative case study design to explore preschool children’s perceptions of school. The research involved 100 children aged 5–6 years from five different kindergartens during the fall semester of the 2022–2023 academic year. Data were collected through the ‘School Perception Interview Form’ and ‘School Picture Drawings’ to explore the children’s perceptions. To comprehensively analyze the collected data, the study employed content analysis, a common method used in qualitative data analysis. The content analysis process involved four stages: coding the data, identifying themes, organizing codes and themes, and describing and interpreting the findings. The study findings revealed that the children perceived school as a place for learning new things and experiencing happiness. Their favorite activity was art, and they enjoyed the school’s garden area. They preferred Lego/blocks and puzzles the most. Overall, they exhibited a positive attitude toward attending school, and their drawings depicted school buildings.
Alternative E-Assessment in Language Classes: Recent Experiences and Future Directions
Authors: Çağlayan Esin
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to explore English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers' perceptions regarding alternative e-assessments in the Turkish tertiary level context. The study utilized semi-structured interviews with a sample of EFL instructors from 17 higher education institutions in Türkiye. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify emerging themes. The results revealed varying perceptions about alternative e-assessments, with six primary themes emerging: impact on learning, workload, academic integrity, digital technology, grading and feedback, and assessment competence. Overall, this qualitative study provides valuable insights into the perceptions of EFL teachers regarding alternative e-assessments, highlighting key areas of concern. The study emphasizes the need to address these concerns in professional development programs that provide teachers with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively implement alternative e-assessments. The results also have implications for the development of effective assessment policies and procedures, optimizing educational practices in the digital age.
Ageless Wisdom: A Cross-Cultural Study on Enhancing Life Satisfaction through Skills Promotion among Older Adults
Authors: Oruc Ertürk Nesrin , De Stefani Adele Gaia , Önder Burçin , Kaygın Hüseyin , Ulus İhsan Çağatay , Ratkowska-Pasikowska Justyna , Pasikowski Sławomir , Bulun Şebnem Nigar
Published: April 2024

This article explores the pervasive issue of ageism and its detrimental effects on the elderly population. Ageism or the prejudice and discrimination against older adults based on their age, can have significant impact on their well-being and life satisfaction. However, the article also delves into the potential positive effects of continuous learning on reducing ageism and enhancing the life satisfaction of the elderly. As a proactive approach, lifelong learning presents an opportunity for the elderly to challenge stereotypes, remain engaged in society, and foster personal growth. This study highlights how training and educational programs can empower older adults, instilling a sense of purpose and accomplishment, leading to a more fulfilled and satisfying life in their later years. The main purpose was to investigate how continuous learning affects the lives and life satisfaction perception of elderly people over the age of 65 from Greece, Hungary, Italy, Poland and Turkey after one week and 25 hours of technology, art and psychotherapy trainings that are believed to support them in every aspect of life.
The Land Acquisition of Inundated Land for The Toll Road Project of Semarang-Demak Sea Embankment
Authors: Pamungkas Guntur Bagus
Published: April 2024

The land acquisition process has been viewed as the most challenging phase in developing road infrastructures in Indonesia. Since the northern coast serves as a vital road corridor to support efficient population mobility and goods transport, the government set to improve the connectivity infrastructure by constructing a toll road project in Semarang – Demak Sea embankment (TTLSD). However, the development of toll road infrastructure for public purposes is often complex because it needs the acquisition of a massive quantity of land. In contrast, land supply is minimal, especially in degraded coastal zones. The study aims to investigate the land acquisition process in the inundated land, which impacts economic and social aspects. The research uses a mixed-methods approach, incorporating quantitative and qualitative research methods and spatial-based analysis techniques that utilize geographical information systems and remote sensing. This analysis shows that the majority of land parcels (92%) in the TTLSD construction project site were inundated lands. This phenomenon resulted in a slow land acquisition process because there were no technical laws and regulations to determine the status of flooded land. There was no mechanism for the transfer of rights to land in Indonesia. Moreover, the land acquisition was hampered by inappropriate compensation, which could not meet the community's expectations, and there were no clear land boundaries due to the flood.
Practical Optimization of Access Road Construction Methods in Soft Soil Areas
Authors: Yudhistira Angga Trisna , Fathani Teuku Faisal , Budi Nugroho Arief Setiawan , Prianugroho Naseem Agung , Wibisono Himawan
Published: April 2024

In one of the smelter projects at West Kalimantan, access road construction was planned to use soil embankment above the geo-membrane layer. But this method is not highly effective considering rainfall intensity is very high in the project location. Therefore, optimization needs to be done to obtain the most effective method in terms of cost and timely accomplishment of the access road. The optimization method is done by making a comparison matrix of the output results of the running simulation schedule on software. From the several methods proposed, the duration of completion, completion costs, and resource requirements are compared and scored to get the most optimized method. Other than that, carbon emissions resulting from each method are also compared. The optimization result concluded that boulder stone layer addition with optimum quantity in the embankment is the most optimal method considering the remaining time and encountering intensive rainfall. This optimized method can result in an accelerated construction duration of 140 days, cost efficiency of 11.46%, and a reduction in carbon emissions of 44% compared to the initial method. This optimization method is expected can be applied to access road embankment projects of soft soil areas in other locations, especially in the Kalimantan region.
Dentoalveolar anomalies and modern views on the mechanisms of local stress-modeling effect of orthodontic appliances on the periodontal tissues (a literature review)
Authors: Hodovanyi O. V. , Chukhray N. L. , Martovlos A. I. , Martovlos O. I.
Published: April 2024

The aim of the study was to highlight the results of modern scientific developments in tracing the mechanisms of local stress-modeling effect of orthodontic appliances on the oral cavity and periodontal tissues during the active period of orthodontic treatment.
Materials and methods. The research methodology was implemented in the collection and analysis of scientific results on the stress-modeling effect of orthodontic appliances in patients with dentoalveolar anomalies obtained from the processed sources – published full-text articles of original and fundamental research by national and foreign authors based on the evidential databases MEDLINE / PubMed, PMC, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, Google Scholar, ResearchGate and other scientific and practical resources.
Results. The main components of the stress-modeling effect of fixed orthodontic appliances on the oral cavity, and particularly on the periodontal tissues, were analyzed. The proportion of various complications is quite high and ranges from 32.7 % to 50.0 % of all cases. The development of oxidative stress during orthodontic treatment is potentiated by microcirculatory disorders and hypoxia of the periodontal tissues. The peculiarities of the periodontal cellular complex reaction, which has the ability to bear stress generated in the actin cytoskeleton by direct mechanical stimulation, to extracellular matrix proteins, affecting the three-dimensional organization of the extracellular matrix and its remodeling, have been traced. The role of lipid peroxidation, antioxidant system and enzymatic reaction of oral and crevicular fluids was also defined.
Conclusions. The development of oxidative stress during orthodontic treatment can be caused by local and systemic exposure to metals, corrosion processes in particular; by inflammation of periodontal tissues due to poor oral hygiene and activation of periodontal pathogenic microflora; by aseptic inflammation in the periodontal ligament due to the use of mechanical force. Certain enzymes of the oral fluid, in particular lactate dehydrogenase, can act as a sensitive marker of changes in the periodontal ligament metabolism during orthodontic teeth movement. The localization and nature of free radical pathology are largely caused by the nature of an exogenous inducer of lipid peroxidation and the genotypic characteristics of antioxidant system. It is this ratio that determines the initiation and further chain branching of free radical reactions. Without normalization of all pathogenetic links, successful treatment of inflammatory and dystrophic-inflammatory diseases of the periodontal tissues, in particular in orthodontic patients, is impossible.
Comorbidity: alobar holoprosencephaly and pulmonary tuberculosis in a child (a case report)
Authors: Myronchuk Yu. V. , Pushnova O. O. , Taran L. V. , Dvizov O. V.
Published: April 2024

Aim: to demonstrate the features of detection and management of a child with simultaneous alobar holoprosencephaly and pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) by the example from our own clinical observation.
Materials and methods. A clinical case of our own observation of the simultaneous course of pulmonary TB and alobar holoprosencephaly in the child who was treated in the pediatric department of the clinical base of the Department of Phthysiatry and Pulmonology of Zaporizhzhia State Medical and Pharmaceutical University on Public Non-Profit Enterprise “Zaporizhzhia Regional Clinical and Diagnostic Center of Phthysiatry and Pulmonology” of Zaporizhzhia Regional Council.
Results. The 4-year-old child diagnosed with pulmonary TB was admitted to the Pediatric Department. Previously, the child was diagnosed with alobar holoprosencephaly in a children’s hospital. His condition was severe due to the main disease. Family members, who had contact with the child, were examined to rule out TB. The index patient was a grandmother, who had recurrent drug-sensitive TB and was looking after the child living apart from the family. The treatment for TB was successful, but the child developed drug-induced hepatotoxicity. Also, the child had episodic convulsions when admitted to the department, which did not repeat after the prescribed treatment by a neurologist.
Conclusions. Alobar holoprosencephaly is a severe and rare structural brain abnormality with complex and multifactorial causes. This condition can be identified at the first screening examination of a pregnant woman, so prenatal diagnosis is quite important. The disease leads to severe disability and requires assistance of physicians in different specialties. Treatment for tuberculosis is successful but demands more monitoring of side effects during antimycobacterial therapy.
Molecular and morphogenetic features of neurulation
Authors: Nevmerzhytska N. M. , Grabovyi O. M. , Yaremenko L. M. , Dzevulska I. V. , Synytska A. M. , Kozak H. I.
Published: April 2024

Neurulation occurs by two different mechanisms, called primary and secondary neurulation. In humans, primary neurulation occurs along most of the rostrocaudal axis of the embryo, while secondary neurulation occurs caudally, only in the lower sacral and coccygeal regions. Primary neurulation is responsible for a change in the neural plate shape, the lateral edges of which rise and then converge at the dorsal midline to merge into a tube. Initially, the neural tube, formed as a result of primary neurulation, is open at both ends through the so-called rostral and caudal neuropores. These neuropores connect the inner part of the neural tube with the environment (amniotic cavity) and later (by the end of primary neurulation) are closed. During primary neurulation, the brain and spinal cord are formed up to the upper sacral region (up to the level of junction between S1 and S2 vertebral bodies), however, the most caudal part of this anatomical region (sacral-coccygeal division of the spinal cord, conus medullaris and filum terminale) is formed at secondary neurulation. In humans, secondary neurulation occurs due to elongation and cavitation of the caudal cell mass into the medulla, which then transforms into a secondary neural tube.
Thus, the main differences between primary and secondary neurulation are that the neural plate folds and invaginates into the body of the embryo and separates from the surface ectoderm, forming an underlying hollow tube in primary neurulation. Mesenchymal cell сlusters form a dense cord that undergoes mesenchymal-epithelial transition and forms cavities and an empty tube during secondary neurulation to form the terminal part of the spinal cord.
Conclusions. Understanding the detailed molecular and genetic mechanisms of each stage of neurulation is relevant due to widespread congenital neural tube defects, and only perfect knowledge on each aspect of neurulation and all possible factors of potential influence on it will help to develop modern options for influencing some of them, and probably, cause a decrease in neural tube congenital defects.
Complex phenotype of Tourette syndrome in a ten-year-old boy (a clinical case)
Authors: Sorokman T. V. , Chernei N. Ya. , Sokolnyk I. S. , Ostapchuk V. H.
Published: April 2024

Aim. The aim of the work is to draw attention to the symptoms associated with Tourette syndrome and to examine the association with comorbid diseases.
Materials and methods. A review of the scientific literature on Tourette syndrome (TS) was conducted using the following Keywords
“tics”, “Tourette syndrome”, “Tourette obsessive-compulsive disorder, TOCD”, “obsessive-compulsive disorder, OCD”, “attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, ADHD” using PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE as search engines. Taking into account studies conducted in the last 10 years, the abstracts of 275 articles were analyzed. Articles were selected for the study based on the criterion of their close relevance to the topic. The study results covered in 49 articles were examined in more detail. A description of a TOCD clinical case was prepared from primary medical documentation with parental informed consent.
Results. The prevalence of TS is quite variable, depends on epidemiological research methods and ranges from 0.3 % to 1.0 % worldwide. Given the methodological limitations of most studies, the actual prevalence may be 10 times higher. TS is a progressive disease and is characterized by regular stages. Tourette syndrome-plus is distinguished, including autoaggressive actions besides the basic symptoms of OCD and ADHD. The etiology of TS is still being studied. In particular, the impact of environmental factors is considered: infection or inflammation, perinatal complications and chronic psychosocial stress in childhood. In 70–80 % of cases, TS is a hereditary disorder, making it one of the most heritable childhood-onset neuropsychiatric diseases. Various approaches have been applied to assess the genetic architecture of TS, including candidate gene studies, segregation analysis, linkage analysis, cytogenetics, copy number variants (CNV), rare variation studies, genome-wide association studies (GWAS), and whole exome sequencing (WES). Currently, there is no specific laboratory or genetic test for TS diagnosis. Pharmacological treatments are available but often ineffective; behavioral and surgical treatments are under development. The clinical case of TS in a 10-year-old boy is described with an onset at the age of 7 years following frequent infections, manifested as cephalocaudal motor tics and several vocal tics (coprolalia, echolalia) with a progression to obsessive-compulsive behavior (mysophobia, compulsive skin picking, self-hitting, self-biting, repetitive compulsions). The presented clinical case is of great interest from the viewpoint of somewhat belated diagnosis of TOCD syndrome, as well as indicates the need to continue the search for effective methods of diagnosis and treatment.
Conclusions. The case of comorbid OCD and tic disorder is a unique endophenotype combining externalized disinhibited TS movements in parallel with internalized distress reminiscent of OCD. Clinicians should consider these features when choosing treatment methods.
Respiratory homeostasis features in female students with idiopathic arterial hypotension and hyperventilation syndrome
Authors: Soltysik L. M. , Levchenko V. A.
Published: April 2024

Aim. To assess the condition of pulmonary ventilation and diaphragmatic excursion in female students with idiopathic arterial hypotension in the context of hyperventilation syndrome and excessive anxiety.
Materials and methods. In total, 62 female students aged 18–24 diagnosed with idiopathic arterial hypotension were examined. The patients were randomly assigned to three groups based on clinical symptoms. Group 1 consisted of 34 students with idiopathic arterial hypotension accompanied by excessive anxiety and hyperventilation syndrome. Group 2 comprised 28 students with arterial hypotension without signs of neurogenic hyperventilation. Group 3, the control one, included 11 apparently healthy age-matched students.
The manifestations of hyperventilation syndrome were determined using the Nijmegen Questionnaire. The level of anxiety was assessed using the Spielberger–Hanin scale. Primary indicators of pulmonary ventilation were examined using a Spirolab spirometer (Italy). The diaphragm dynamic function was evaluated by assessing the excursion of its right dome using a Chison QBIT 5 apparatus (China).
Results. Through the survey, signs of neurogenic hyperventilation syndrome and excessive anxiety have been identified in the students of Group 1 showing changes in pulmonary ventilation parameters, such as significantly decreased vital capacity (VC), forced vital capacity (FVC), and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), compared to the results obtained in Groups 2 and 3, indicating restrictive respiratory disorders.
It has been found that diaphragmatic excursion values (18.29 ± 3.26 mm) at rest in Group 1 were significantly lower compared to those obtained in the control group (26.82 ± 2.32 mm) (p ˂ 0.05). During forced breathing, diaphragmatic excursion (56.86 ± 4.35 mm) in Group 1 was lower than that (80.18 ± 3.19 mm) in the control group (p < 0.05). In Group 2, a significant initial decrease in diaphragmatic excursion was revealed only in 26.67 % of the girls.
Conclusions. In female students with idiopathic arterial hypotension accompanied by hyperventilation syndrome and excessive anxiety, restrictive pattern of decreased pulmonary ventilation parameters and reduced diaphragmatic excursion were observed.