bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resistance of Asphalt Concrete to Plastic Rutting Depending on Shear Resistance of Binders
Authors: Tsibarius Yu. A. , Lanis A. L. , Berdyugin A. N. , Razuvaev M. A.
Published: January 2025

The paper substantiates the relevance of studying the process of plastic rutting on roads with asphalt concrete pavements. It is hypothesised that the existing approach to monitoring quality indicators at the stage of production of asphalt concrete mixtures, including the components included in its composition, namely, monitoring the required resistance to plastic rutting of the resulting asphalt concrete pavements, has a significant drawback. The indicated drawback is that assessment of the possibility of using a specific batch of binder for preparation of asphalt concrete mixture is currently carried out only based on incoming quality control of the binder, by comparing the actual values of physical and mechanical characteristics obtained in the laboratory with the minimum standard values stated for the grade of binder material adopted in the design documentation, without taking into account the actual values of the quality characteristics of the binder used at the stage of laboratory selection of the mixture composition. This drawback, in some cases, can lead to failure to ensure the resistance of the asphalt concrete mixture to plastic rutting at the stage of its production.

The study contains the results of testing the shear resistance of batches of binders of one performance grade and the resistance of asphalt concretes prepared using these binders to plastic rutting. The results of the study confirm the hypothesis put forward by the authors; the dependence of the «average rut depth» indicator on the shear resistance of the binder aged by the RTFOT method is obtained and statistically substantiated.
Changes in the Principles of International Economic Relations as a Factor in Development of the International North–South Transport Corridor
Authors: Dzhangiryan A. V.
Published: January 2025

The context of ongoing changes in the directions of cargo flows passing through the territory of the Russian Federation, as well as a rethinking of the basic principles of world trade regulation generates an additional interest in the study of the impact of these processes on the dynamics of implementation of projects for development of the International North-South Transport Corridor.

The paper refers to the analysis of the main reasons and trends in changing the principles of international economic relations highlighting the development prospects and growing demand for the North-South ITC, the importance of creating effective mechanisms for advanced attraction of investment resources to provide new projects for development of the corridor with sources of financing. Approaches are proposed for appropriate adaptation of the process of preparing investment projects aimed at developing the infrastructure of the North-South ITC. The study notes the importance of conducting further research aimed at increasing the economic efficiency of design, construction and operation of this corridor.
Performance-Based Compensation Systems and Principal Job Performance
Authors: Mitani Hajime
Published: January 2025

The inequitable distribution of principal effectiveness raises concern among policymakers. Principal sorting likely contributes to wider achievement and opportunity gaps between low- and high-need schools. As a possible policy tool, policymakers proposed performance-based compensation systems (PBCS). Tennessee was one of the states that supported the implementation of PBCS. This study examined the relationship between PBCS and principal job performance in the state, using longitudinal administrative data, principal evaluation data, and unique PBCS data from 2012 to 2019. The study did not find consistently significant, positive relationships between PBCS and principal job performance. However, the relationships were generally more pronounced among high-need schools. The study concludes with detailed discussions about the results, the assumptions behind PBCS, limitations, and implications.
Feedback Practices on Young Students’ Oral Reading: A Systematic Review
Authors: Grønli Karianne Megard , Walgermo Bente Rigmor , McTigue Erin Margaret , Uppstad Per Henning
Published: January 2025

When beginning readers read aloud, the teacher’s feedback affects their reader identities. Teacher’s feedback may also imprint a strong model of what reading is and what proficient readers do. This systematic review investigates the characteristics of teachers’ feedback on elementary students’ reading and furthers its potential to support students’ agency in learning to read. A total of 52 empirical studies in K–5 settings were identified and analyzed. Findings suggest clear associations between how feedback was presented and what aspects of reading were targeted: typically, either explicit feedback on decoding or implicit feedback on meaning. Further, support for student agency was more strongly associated with implicit feedback practices. Finally, two groups of students—struggling readers and L2 learners—tended to receive feedback that does not promote agency. The review concludes by discussing the potential of feedback practices to support students in becoming proficient and independent readers.
Firmeza del fruto, color del suelo y evolución del etileno en dos cultivares de duraznos (Prunus persica L. Batsch)
Authors: Budde C. O. , Blanco M. P. , Altube H. A.
Published: January 2025

Se estudió la liberación de etileno y su relación con el ablandamiento de la pulpa y los cambios de color de fondo en duraznos de los cultivares July Elberta y Red Globe. La liberación de etileno acompañó el ablandamiento de los frutos y los cambios de color en el epicarpio de los frutos. Durante las primeras fases del ablandamiento de los frutos la producción de etileno se incrementó ligeramente, alcanzando sus máximos valores cuando el fruto ya se encontraba blando.
Inconclusive evidence for a prospective effect of social media addiction on aggressive behaviors: A simulated reanalysis and comment on Lin et al. (2024)
Authors: Sorjonen Kimmo , Melin Bo
Published: January 2025

Based on findings from analyses with cross-lagged panel models, Lin et al. (2024) suggested an impact of social media addiction on aggressive behaviors. Here, we simulated data to resemble the data used by Lin et al. We used triangulation and fitted complementary models to the simulated data and found contradicting increasing, decreasing, and null effects of initial social media addiction on subsequent change in aggression. These divergent findings suggest that it is premature to assume an increasing effect of social media addiction on aggression and the suggestion by Lin et al. in this regard can be challenged. It is important for researchers to be aware that correlations, including adjusted cross-lagged effects, do not prove causality in order not to overinterpret findings, something that appears to have happened to Lin et al. We recommend researchers to triangulate by fitting complementary models to their data in order to evaluate if observed effects may be due to true causal effects or if they appear to be spurious.
What does it mean to spurn Educational Constructivism? How traditionalistic proclivities generate unnecessary error
Authors: Panarello Christian
Published: January 2025

Despite the influence that Dewey has affected to scholars and social critics, the model of education that he criticised, particularly in his works How We Think and Democracy and Education, has been unchanged: significantly, through two world wars, eras of progressivism attached to social and labor purposes, and the modern technocracy. This relatively brief article dictates the significance of – quite simply – not engaging with the Constructivist education that is more productive, egalitarian, and educational than otherwise.
Communication & grammar: A synthesis
Authors: Scott-Phillips Thom
Published: January 2025

Communication is ubiquitous in human social life. There are many possible modes of human communication but language use is plainly of special interest: because language plays a critical role in culture and society; and because languages are important cultural products in their own right, with their own distinctive properties, in particular grammatical structure. However, we do not presently have any compelling synthesis of our understanding of communication and our understanding of grammar. This problem is important because synthesizing knowledge across neighboring domains considerably deepens understanding in its own right, and can bring new perspectives to bear on old issues. Mature syntheses are major scientific breakthroughs. Here I present a synthesis of communication and grammar. I argue in particular that contextualist theories of communication, and constructionist approaches to the description of grammars, together provide a cohesive picture. Both bodies of work have proved enormously influential in their respective subfields, but their synthesis provides a unified picture of considerable clarity. Linguistic communication is a coordination problem on the speaker’s informative intentions; and grammars are networks of micro-conventions for ostensive communication, that enable language users to resolve this coordination problem far more easily than they otherwise would. I identify precisely what makes languages, languages; and what language users are doing when they ‘use language’. This synthesis in turn provides fresh perspectives on many classical issues in the language sciences. I sketch three examples: literal meaning and construction modulation; language learning; and the evolutionary emergence of language in our species.
My Tablet’s About to Go Dead! 5- to 6-year-old Children Adjust Their Cognitive Strategies Depending on Whether An External Resource is Reliably Available
Authors: Liang Yibiao , Kaldy Zsuzsa , Blaser Erik
Published: January 2025

There are concerns that reliance on external resources (e.g., information on digital devices) may be harmful to our own internal memory. Here, in a pre-registered study, we investigated how the reliability of an external resource (i.e., whether the information will be available when needed) affects young children’s use of it. In our tablet-based Shopping Game, children picked items from a store based on a shopping list. Importantly, the store and the list were not visible simultaneously, but children could toggle between them. In the reliable condition, the list was always available. In the unreliable condition, children were led to believe that the list might disappear. We found that 5-6-year-old children (N = 37) relied more on the list – referring back to it more often and more briefly, and remembering fewer items – when they perceived the list as reliably available (and vice versa, reducing trips to the list by studying it longer, and remembering more, when it was perceived as unreliably available). Nearly all children also identified the reliable condition as easier and preferred. In short, young children not only recognize the opportunity provided by reliably available external resources, but adapt their cognitive effort accordingly.
Evolved equity but inequity in the household? Reviewing evolutionary accounts of Fairness
Authors: Deb Angarika , Heintz Christophe
Published: January 2025

Gendered division of household labour is marked by its pervasive inequality, in that women routinely do more housework across the world. But still, most women continue to find it fair, even if they are systematically contributing more. How can evolutionary accounts of fairness explain that fact? We review three major accounts focusing on their psychological claims, discussing what evidence in support of their account and how well they can explain perceptions of fairness about gendered division of household labour. These are three distinct accounts which describe fairness judgements a) arising from the following of local social norms (Henrich and colleagues), b) a sense of equity which evolved in a partner choice ecology (André, Baumard and colleagues) and c) as a sense of egalitarianism, which evolved in response to human coordination problems (Binmore). We find that none of these accounts are fully compatible with observations of gender inequalities in households, though each contain important insights, which can be integrated into a more comprehensive theory. We end our review by providing an outline of what such a comprehensive theory might look like and provide a tool for researchers to enable seamless exploration of multiple factors underlying fairness judgements.
The need for Mindfulness in the Arab-Bedouin community in Israel: Recommendations for Cultural and Context Informed Adaptations
Authors: Alnabilsy Raghda , Israel Shiran , Soroker Inbal , Levit-Binnun Nava
Published: January 2025

Objectives: This study addresses the pressing need for culturally adapted mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) for the Arab-Bedouin population in Israel, a marginalized group facing socio-economic hardships, limited access to mental health resources, and unique cultural challenges. Specifically, the research examines the association between mindfulness and mental well-being within this community and investigates how Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) might be adapted to meet their cultural needs.Methods: Two complementary studies were conducted. The first was a cross-sectional quantitative study involving 181 Arab-Bedouin participants who completed validated scales measuring trait mindfulness, self-compassion, and key mental health indicators, including well-being, anxiety, depression, and perceived stress. The second study employed qualitative methods, with in-depth interviews of 8 Arab-Bedouin mental health professionals who completed an adapted MBSR program. Thematic analysis was applied to explore their perspectives on necessary cultural adaptations for effective implementation.Results: Quantitative analysis showed strong positive associations between mindfulness, self-compassion, and mental well-being, with higher mindfulness and self-compassion linked to lower anxiety, depression, and stress. Qualitative findings emphasized essential cultural adaptations, including delivering MBSR in Arabic, integrating Islamic values, and providing gender-sensitive practices, all of which fostered cultural alignment and increased participant engagement. Participants highlighted the value of the instructor’s cultural background and the use of relatable examples. Conclusions: Mindfulness practices are associated with improved mental health outcomes in the Arab-Bedouin community. Culturally adapting MBSR to address language, gender norms, and Islamic teachings enhances its relevance and effectiveness, highlighting the potential of tailored MBIs in promoting well-being in marginalized communities.
The acquisition of plain-emphatic consonant contrasts by Arabic-speaking children: an acoustic study
Authors: Alkhudidi Anwar , Benders Titia , Szalay Tuende , Demuth Katherine , Holt Rebecca
Published: January 2025

Arabic emphatic consonants are claimed to be late-acquired, likely due to their motoric complexity, involving both coronal and pharyngeal/uvular constrictions. Children's production has largely been studied using impressionistic data, with limited acoustic analysis. This study acoustically examines the acquisition of emphatic consonants in Saudi-Hijazi-Arabic-speaking children aged 3 to 6 years. Children performed a real-word repetition task, after which consonantal and vocalic cues to the plain-emphatic contrast were measured. The results show that children produce both types of acoustic cues, with an age-related increase in the acoustic plain-emphatic contrast and an overall alignment with adult patterns. Larger acoustic contrasts were found in vowels preceding rather than following consonants in word-medial positions, with no evidence observed for a difference between word-initial and word-final positions. The plain-emphatic contrast was greater for stops than fricatives and larger for female than male children. These findings are discussed in relation to the development of coarticulated consonants.
Books are overwhelmingly supportive of transgender identities: Analysing queer literature using a Goodreads web scrape
Authors: Ryba Ren , Freeling Michelle
Published: January 2025

Increasing media attention has led to greater support for queer and transgender people, but this attention has also led to scrutiny and some backlash against these identities. In this paper, I provide a simple analysis of one medium of social discourse: published books. Using a scrape of the website Goodreads, I examine some key metrics relating to the presence and popularity of books, with a focus on books about transgender people. I scraped the Goodreads page for over 1.6 million books, resulting in 263,597 records that were complete and had some user engagement. Of these, 343 related to transgender people. Books about transgender people were overwhelmingly positive and supportive of trans identities. According to automated classification by a large language model, the 343 books about transgender people were divided into 285 positive books and only 8 negative books (50 could not be classified). Books that were positive about transgender people received more user reviews and stronger average ratings than negative books. Overall, there were 170 times more user reviews of positive transgender books than there were about negative transgender books, which might suggest that Goodreads users are far more likely to interact with supportive books than skeptical or dismissive books about transgender people.
Are Psychologists Ready for Stricter Journal Policies on Open Science? Insights into Pre-registration, Data Sharing, and Open Peer Review Across Tenure and Methodology
Authors: Rudenko Nika Oleksandrivna
Published: January 2025

This study examines how Open Science policies—such as pre-registration, data sharing, and open peer review—affect psychology researchers' likelihood of submitting to academic journals, while also considering the roles of tenure status and research methodology. A survey of 149 psychology researchers indicates that journals with moderately stringent policies, where Open Science practices are optional or encouraged, are more likely to attract submissions. Conversely, researchers tend to avoid journals that disregard Open Science altogether. While mandatory policies are not widely endorsed, the likelihood of submission to journals with the strictest policies remains above 58% across all categories. Non-tenured researchers are more inclined to submit to journals with stricter policies compared to their tenured counterparts, while no significant differences are observed between experimental and non-experimental researchers.These findings highlight a growing acceptance of stricter Open Science practices among psychology researchers. They suggest that psychology journal editors, by adopting moderately stringent or even stricter policies, could align with this cultural shift without risking a decline in submissions. On the contrary, journals ignoring Open Science may face challenges in attracting papers in an evolving academic landscape.
PENGARUH MODEL CONNECTED MATHEMATICS PROJECT TERHADAP KEMAMPUAN PEMAHAMAN KONSEP DITINJAU DARI ADVERSITY QUOTIENT
Authors: Farra Aulia Rahmayanti  , Nur Baiti Nasution
Published: January 2025

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui apakah model pembelajaran CMP menghasilkan kemampuan pemahaman konsep yang lebih baik dibandingkan dengan model pembelajaran konvensional.Selain itu, penelitian ini juga ingin menilai perbedaan dalam pemahaman konsep siswa dengan  Adversity Quotient (AQ) kategori climbers, campers, dan quitter. Selain itu, penelitian ini ingin mengetahui apakah terdapat interaksi antara model pembelajaran CMP dan Adversity Quotient terhadap kemampuan pemahaman konsep siswa.. Metode yang digunakan adalah quasi experimental dengan desain posttes only control group design. Sampel terdiri dari kelas XI MIPA 2 sebagai kelas eksperimen dan kelas XI MIPA 4 sebagai kelas kontrol.Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan metode tes dan non tes. Sedangkan teknik analisis data menggunakan analisis variansi dua jalan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa model pembelajaran CMP secara signifikan meningkatkan kemampuan pemahaman konsep dibandingkan dengan model konvensional. Selain itu, siswa dengan AQ kategori climbers menunjukkan kemampuan pemahaman konsep yang lebih baik dibandingkan dengan siswa kategori campers, dan siswa kategori campers sama baiknya dengan siswa kategori quitter, siswa dengan adversity quotient climbers menghasilkan kemampuan pemahaman konsep yang lebih baik dari siswa dengan adversity quotient quitter. Terdapat interaksi antara model pembelajaran dengan adversity quotient terhadap kemampuan pemahaman konsep.
Kata Kunci: Adversity quotient, CMP, Kemampuan pemahaman konsep
الوجدان: من تحديد هايدغر الأنطولوجي إلى تأسيس هونيث لإتيقا الاعتراف
Authors: بنشانع خالد
Published: January 2025

نسعى من خلال هذه الدراسة إلى إلقاء الضوء على تيمة الوجدان باعتبارها أحد مقومات الكينونة البشرية حيث تقتدر من خلالها الانفتاح على الوجود في العالم وعلى الغير، بناءً على التأويل الفينومينولوجي لمارتن هايدغر. فكيف خوّل هذا الإمكان الأنطولوجي أن يعتمده أكسيل هونيث أساسًا لإتيقا الاعتراف لتجاوز مظاهر الاحتقار والتشيُّؤ المتجسدة في المجتمعات المعاصرة؟ نؤكد هذا الإمكان استنادًا إلى نظريات علم نفس نموّ الطفل التي بيّنت أنّ العلاقة الأولية للطفل مع الغير تنبني على البعد الوجداني، واستنادًا إلى نتائج فلسفة اللغة مع ستانلي كافيل على مستوى فهم العلاقات الأولية للتفاعل بناءً على تحليله للمنطوقات اللغوية التي تكشف من خلالها الذات أحوالها الوجدانية للغير.
DIGITIZATION AND ITS IMPACT ON THE QUALITY OF HIGHER EDUCATION IN ALGERIAN UNIVERSITIES
Authors: Boutarfa Rochdi  , Zedira Khammar
Published: January 2025

This study aims to shed light on the reality of digitalization in higher education institutions, by exploring the strategies of the relevant ministry. These strategies include developing a framework for operationalizing the principles of digitalization and digital transformation, as well as identifying platforms and programs used to promote education and learning. The study also highlights the role of these tools in enabling researchers to effectively perform their tasks, keep abreast of developments in scientific research methods, and benefit from digitalization technology, which can help strengthen innovation and improve the quality of scientific research. It should be added that this study also aims to analyze the challenges faced by higher education institutions in implementing digitalization strategies and to formulate practical recommendations to improve the teaching and research process.
Influence of Post-COVID-19 and a doctor-led Blended Therapy on health behavior and the health action of patients
Authors: Urban Thomas
Published: January 2025

Background: With the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and the possibility of developing Post-COVID-19 syndrome, health issues have become more dominant. Post-COVID-19, stress reactions of a somatic, cognitive and emotional nature triggered by performance requirements often occur even with low objective stress. As part of an intervention and observation study, stress-controlled standardized training therapy and intensified cognitive behavioral therapy in the form of blended therapy were implemented at the Post-COVID-19 Center (PCZ) Lausitz (Senftenberg) for patients with the leading syndromes fatigue and sensorimotor instability. From this, parame-ters influencing the individual phase-specific health behavior of the patient were derived.

Materials and Methods: The aim was to derive an explanation and prediction of health behavior and to find ways of influencing patients' health actions by doctors and therapists to alleviate symptoms and avoid chronicity of the Post-COVID-19 key symptoms of fatigue and sensorimotor instability. For this purpose, the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA)-model, which has a high level of resonance in health psychology, was used. The HAPA-model was specified with the results of a guide-line-supported expert interview that took place in the form of an observational study in Q3-2023 and Q4-2023 with 46 patients from a previous blended therapy interven-tion study (78 patients) on post-COVID-19 Center (PCZ) Lausitz (Senftenberg).

Results: Factors influencing the motivational and volitional phase of health action for post-COVID-19 patients with fatigue and sensorymotor instability were derived. To this end, five specific research questions were answered using a guided expert interview and the results were integrated into the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA)-model. The specified HAPA model also provides doctors and therapists with recommendations for action in order to positively influence therapy behavior in a phase-specific manner and thus also the outcome.

Conclusion: The specified Health Action Process Approach (HAPA)-model for Post-COVID-19 patients with fatigue and sensorimotor instability allows for the representation of intervention-specific influencing factors on the health behavior and health-related actions of patients. This gives doctors and therapists the opportunity to shape patients' therapeutic behavior in a positive way.
The Health Implications of Street Vended Foods in Nigeria: A Food Safety Approach -A Review
Authors: Arinze Francis Ofoedum
Published: January 2025

This review work emphasizes the value of food, the idea of selling street food, the different kinds of sellers, the locations of the vending machines, and the people who buy street food. Along with food handling procedures, it addressed the main factors that lead to microbial contamination of food, including the location of preparation, food raw materials, cooking and serving utensils, food packaging materials, the setting in which food is prepared or sold, water sources, dust, sewage, and refuse, as well as food vendors' personal hygiene. The microbiological safety of food as well as other hygienic issues related to food safety were also highlighted in this work. Food-borne diseases, such as botulism, typhoid fever, salmonellosis, bacillary dysentery, and Escherichia coli, Amoebic dysentery, Shigellosis, and so on, are frequently linked to foods that are sold. It also butressed food control systems such as GAP, GHP, GMP and HACCP; implementation of food safety policies and the benefits of food control systems.
Nutrient Analysis of Edible Land Snails (Achatina achatina) in the Enugu State, Nigeria
Authors: Pearl Chukwudebe Ewere
Published: January 2025

Background: Snail meat is a great source of protein and various mineral elements. Although snails are consumed as food in many Nigerian communities, they are underutilized in efforts to prevent malnutrition. The aim of this study was to determine the proximate composition and mineral analysis of edible land snails (Achatina achatina) sold in the Enugu State, Nigeria.

Methodology: Snails were purchased from markets in the Enugu State. They were killed by striking the shells carefully with an iron rod and the foot (the edible portion) was separated from the offal. The resulting fresh meat was dried to constant weight using a hot air oven to determine the moisture content. Proximate and mineral analyses were carried out on the resulting dry snail meat. Crude protein, fat, fiber, and ash contents were determined using the standard methods of the Association of the Official Analytical Chemists. Carbohydrate content was determined by difference. Phosphorus content was determined using the molybdenum blue method, calcium and magnesium contents were determined using the complexometric titration with EDTA method. Sodium and potassium contents were determined using the Flame Photometry method.

Results: The fresh snail meat contained 71.65±1.51% moisture. Proximate analysis of the dry matter revealed the contents as follows: ash (2.80±0.19%), protein (14.46±0.63%), fiber (4.15±0.21%), fat (0.05± 0.02%), and carbohydrate (6.39±0.18%). Mineral analysis showed that dried snail meat contained: phosphorus (3.8±0.26 mg/100g), calcium (118.30±1.74 mg/100g), sodium (0.34±0.03 mg/100g), potassium (13.50±0.58 mg/100g), and magnesium (98.60±1.30 ppm),

Conclusion: The results of this study revealed that Achatina achatina is rich in protein and minerals, but low in fat, and that its consumption may help in alleviating human malnutrition.
Bioacessility of selected nutrients from raw and processed finger millet (eleusine coracana)
Authors: George Nyabuti
Published: January 2025

Finger millet (Eleusine coracana) is a nutrient-rich crop widely consumed in developing countries for its potential to combat nutritional deficiencies. However, factors like antinutrients influence nutrient bioaccessibility. This study evaluated the nutritional composition of eighteen varieties (N=18) of finger millet grown at the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) in Kisii County, Kenya to identify a variety with the highest levels of Cr3+ and K. The samples were obtained using a randomized complete block design. Mineral content (Cr³⁺, K, Fe, Zn, Mg, Ca, P) was determined via ICP-MS, while antinutrient levels were assessed using Pierce kits and titration methods. Bioaccessibility was measured through in vitro digestion using Caco-2 cells. The IE3779 FM and IE4115 FM varieties contained significantly higher levels (p<0.05) of Cr³⁺ and K respectively hence identified for processing. After processing IE3779 FM variety was identified for bioaccessibility studies due to its higher Cr3+ levels than other varieties. Potassium and chromium are important in T2D diabetic patients if consumed in the recommended amounts. Chromium (iii), Cr3+ and K have been reported to increase insulin sensitivity, lower blood pressure, and boost the immune system. Processing through malting and roasting reduced antinutrients, including tannins, phytates, phenols, and oxalates. Processing decreased tannins, phytates, phenols, and oxalates by 29.11,3.71 %,42.65 %, and 10.71 % on malting and by 24.67 %,8.86 %, 63.29 %, and 7.14 % on roasting IE3779FM variety respectively. Bioaccessibility of Cr3+ and K increased by 2.41 % and 3.5 % on malting, 2.82 % and 31.21 % on roasting. These results underscore the importance of processing to improve nutrient bioaccessibility, making finger millet a valuable food in combating micronutrient deficiencies.
Giant Left Atrium
Authors: Muthiah Ramachandran
Published: January 2025

Aim: To present the aneurysmal dilatation of left atrium due to rheumatic mitral valve disease and its clinical consequences such as arrhythmic, thromboembolic and compressive manifestations.

Introduction: Extreme enlargement of left atrium, usually referred to as giant, gigantic or aneurysmal dilatation is an uncommon finding with a reported incidence of 0.3% in rheumatic heart disease. It is an important clinical risk identifier to predict the outcome of cardiovascular disease.

Case reports: Aneurysmal left atrium correlating with the length of pure mitral regurgitation jet in a 18-year old girl, posterior mitral leaflet prolapse with regurgitation jet swirling around the entire interatrial septum in a 37-year old male, Giant left atrium in mixed mitral valve disease in a 37-year old female and a thrombosed giant left atrium resembling as “coconut” in a 50-year old female were reported.

Conclusion: Giant left atrium may be misinterpreted as right-sided pleural effusion, pericardial effusion and mediastinal tumor on X-ray chest and so echocardiographic evaluation is mandatory to exclude the aneurysmal left atrium in such conditions.
The Relevance of The Problem of The Spread of Ischemic Heart Disease in Childhood and Adolescence
Authors: I. Bon Elizaveta
Published: January 2025

Scientific and technological progress and modern research methods have allowed the medical community to delve into the problems of cardiovascular diseases in childhood and adolescence in more detail. Modern research reflects the influence of various types of risk factors in childhood on the development of cardiovascular diseases in adulthood. In this work, we decided to analyze the statistics, risk factors, causes and clinical picture of myocardial ischemic disease.
First records of Arctodiaptomus byzantinus (Copepoda: Calanoida) from the East European Plain (Russia) and A. similis from Mongolia
Authors: Podshivalina V.N. , Sheveleva N.G.
Published: January 2025

The calanoid copepod Arctodiaptomus byzantinus Mann, 1940 (Copepoda: Calanoida: Diaptomidae) is recorded for the first time from the East European Plain (Middle Volga Region, Russia), and A. similis (Baird, 1859) is found in Darkhat Hollow (Mongolia). Brief redescriptions and illustrations of both species are provided. Additionally, certain morphological characters are clarified, particularly those of the leg 5, antennulae and caudal rami.
Intraventricular baclofen for the treatment of pediatric spasticity in cerebral palsy: technique and outcomes
Authors: Piazza Martin G. , Thambireddy Swetha , Mandava Anisha , Abel Taylor J. , Kellogg Robert G.
Published: January 2025

OBJECTIVE

Intraventricular baclofen (IVB) administration is used for the treatment of secondary dystonia associated with cerebral palsy (CP), but it has not been reported as a first-line infusion technique for spasticity. In this study, the authors report outcomes of patients with mixed or isolated spasticity treated with IVB administration.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed of consecutive patients treated with IVB between 2019 and 2023. Demographics, baseline clinical variables, and complications data were collected. The primary outcome of the study was the change in spasticity and dystonia as measured by the modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) and Barry-Albright Dystonia Scale (BADS) scores, respectively. Wilcoxon rank-sum tests were performed to compare the change in the pre- and postoperative scores.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients were implanted with IVB pumps for spasticity related to CP between 2019 and 2023. The median change in the MAS score was 2 (interquartile range [IQR] = 1) and the median change in the BADS score was 1 (IQR = 2). The Wilcoxon rank-sum test revealed a statistically significant change in both scores following IVB pump placement (BADS z = 2.90, p = 0.003; MAS z = 3.2, p = 0.001). Three patients (20%) experienced minor perioperative complications, all of which were self-limiting and none required additional surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

This study reported on 15 cases of mixed or isolated spasticity and showed a relative improvement in the MAS and BADS scores after IVB pump placement. These results provide evidence that IVB can be a safe and effective treatment for spasticity-related CP in addition to dystonia. IVB may be advantageous when an intraventricular route of baclofen administration is preferred.
The pediatric Brain Injury Guidelines: a retrospective clinical validation study
Authors: Freeman Lindsey M. , Bothwell Samantha , Pazniokas Julia , Mecum Andrew , Nguyen Khoa , Park Tyler D. , Ryan Megan V. , Samples Derek C.
Published: January 2025

OBJECTIVE

Pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) represents a significant public health concern and source of resource utilization. The aim of this study was to establish the ability of the previously published pediatric Brain Injury Guidelines (pBIG) to identify patients with traumatic intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) who might not require routine repeat neuroimaging, neurosurgical consultation, or hospital admission in a large level I and level II trauma cohort.

METHODS

Pediatric patients who presented with traumatic ICH between 2018 and 2022 at the included institutions were retrospectively reviewed and sorted into pBIG categories using clinical and radiographic criteria. Nonaccidental trauma was excluded. Repeat neuroimaging and results, neurosurgical intervention, length of stay (LOS), and 30-day mortality and re-presentation to healthcare were collected as outcomes.

RESULTS

A cohort of 955 patients (median age 7.0 years, with 64.5% of patients being male) were included. Overall, 9.7% of patients had pBIG 1 injuries, 30.0% had pBIG 2 injuries, and 60.2% had pBIG 3 injuries. A total of 368 (38.5%) of patients underwent repeat neuroimaging, of whom 144 (39.1%) showed progression of hemorrhage. Neurosurgical intervention was performed in 129 (13.5%) patients, with 127 (98.4%) of them meeting pBIG 3 criteria on arrival. The two remaining patients met pBIG 2 criteria on arrival and then progressed to meet pBIG 3 criteria within 24 hours. Patient meeting pBIG 3 criteria were significantly more likely to have progression on repeat imaging, require neurosurgical intervention, and experience 30-day mortality (p < 0.001). Within the pBIG 3 cohort, there was not a significant relationship between progression on repeat imaging and the need for intervention (p = 0.61). Post hoc pairwise testing of individual radiographic pBIG groupings revealed pBIG 3 criteria for all categories except subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) to be predictive of need for neurosurgical intervention (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Algorithmic management of mild TBI is beneficial to patient care. With zero and near-zero rates of neurosurgical intervention and mortality in patients with pBIG 1 and pBIG 2 injuries, respectively, the pBIG are valid in stratifying a larger and broader population of pediatric TBI patients. In contrast to other pBIG 3–defined compartment ICHs, "scattered" SAH does not correlate with need for neurosurgical intervention. However, these guidelines have the ability to safely improve care and decrease unnecessary resource utilization without negatively affecting patient outcomes. Utilization of guidelines of any sort are not intended to supersede clinical judgment. Prospective studies are needed.
Outcomes and complications of external ventricular drainage in primary and secondary intraventricular hemorrhage: a descriptive observational study
Authors: Gu Chenghao , Lind Allice N. R. , Haldrup Mette , Eschen Jens T. , Eskildsen Mads H. , Kjær Asbjørn , Rasmussen Mads , Dyrskog Stig , Meier Kaare , Simonsen Claus Z. , Debrabant Birgit , Korshøj Anders R.
Published: January 2025

OBJECTIVE

Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is a serious condition with high mortality rates and poor functional outcome in survivors. Treatment includes external ventricular drains (EVDs), which are associated with several complications. This study reports the clinical outcome and complication rate in patients with primary IVH (pIVH) and secondary IVH treated with EVDs.

METHODS

The authors conducted a retrospective observational study using the Danish National Patient Registry. Patients treated with EVDs for pIVH or secondary IVH between September 2012 and August 2022 at Aarhus University Hospital were included. Demographic data, clinical treatment, and outcomes were extracted and analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 436 patients with 615 EVDs were included. Of these, 4.1% had pIVH, 60.6% had IVH secondary to subarachnoid hemorrhage, and 35.3% had IVH secondary to intracerebral hemorrhage. During EVD treatment, 38.8% of patients experienced complications, including complete occlusion (17.2%), partial occlusion (16.1%), ventriculitis (7.1%), and other complications (9.6%). Of patients surviving the initial 30 days, 34.2% received a ventriculoperitoneal shunt, and 29.9% remained shunt dependent 6 months after inclusion. Mortality rates were 28.9% at 30 days and 33.7% at 90 days. A total of 31.0% of patients had good functional outcomes at 90 days.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides a comprehensive historical reference of complications, mortality rate, and functional outcome of EVD-treated patients with pIVH and secondary IVH. These findings provide a baseline for evaluating novel catheter-based interventions in IVH management.
The recovery trajectory of patient-reported outcomes in elderly patients with frailty undergoing lumbar spine fusion: a propensity score–matching analysis
Authors: Cui Peng , Huang Qingyang , Wang Peng , Kong Chao , Lu Shibao
Published: January 2025

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to assess the complicated relationship between frailty, perioperative complications, and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in elderly patients (≥ 75 years old) undergoing lumbar spine fusion (LSF).

METHODS

Consecutive patients who underwent LSF between March 2019 and December 2021 were recruited in this study. Frail patients (modified frailty index [mFI] score ≥ 2) were propensity score matched to nonfrail patients (mFI score 0–1) on the basis of age, sex, and the number of fused levels. Perioperative complications were collected and assessed according to the comprehensive complication index. Subgroups were further subdivided on the basis of the presence of major complications. The data from SF-36, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and North American Spine Society Satisfaction Questionnaire (NASS) at baseline and 1- and 2-year follow-up evaluations were compared between groups. Furthermore, the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) achievement rate was also compared.

RESULTS

The final analysis included 631 patients: 344 in the frail group and 287 in the nonfrail group. Frail patients were older (79.7 ± 5.1 years vs 76.4 ± 4.8 years, p < 0.001), with a higher proportion of females (68.9% vs 57.8%, p = 0.004) and those with malnutrition (17.7% vs 11.1%, p = 0.020). After propensity score matching for age, sex, and number of fused levels, 402 patients (201 in each group) were analyzed. Frail patients were more prone to have delirium (7.5% vs 3.0%, p = 0.044), blood transfusion (43.3% vs 30.3%, p = 0.007), and surgical site infection (6.0% vs 2.0%, p = 0.041). In addition, frail patients had a higher proportion of major complications (29.4% vs 16.9%, p = 0.003). Although they had worse PROs at baseline, frail patients obtained higher mean improvements and higher rates of MCID achievement by the 1- and 2-year follow-up evaluations than their nonfrail counterparts. Major complications did not seem to affect PROs in frail and nonfrail patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite being associated with worse baseline PROs, frail patients gained greater mean improvement in PROs and higher rates of MCID achievement by the 1- and 2-year follow-up evaluations than nonfrail patients. In addition, the presence of major complications did not affect PROs at the 1- and 2-year follow-ups. Although associated with major complications, elderly patients with frailty could benefit from LSF.
THE CONTRIBUTION OF SPEAKING PRACTICE WITH THE NATIVE SPEAKER TO STUDENTS’ SPEAKING ABILITY IN SMPN 1 PAMEKASAN
Authors: Devie Reztia Anjarani  , Muhammad Darrin Zuhri  , Jamaluddin
Published: January 2025

This study examines the impact of speaking practice with native speakers on the English-speaking skills of students at SMPN 1 Pamekasan. It investigates how direct interactions with native speakers affect linguistic fluency, pronunciation, and confidence in speaking. Using a mixed-method approach, the research collected data through observations, interviews, and performance evaluations of eighth-grade students actively involved in speaking activities with native speakers. The findings reveal that regular interaction with native speakers significantly enhances students’ speaking abilities, particularly in pronunciation accuracy and conversational competence. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the role of authentic language practice in boosting student engagement and motivation in learning English. These results underscore the potential benefits of integrating native speaker interactions into English language teaching programs to improve students' speaking proficiency.
Fabrication of Free-Standing Porous BaTiO Thick Films by Indirect Selective Laser Sintering
Authors: Mendes F.B. , Ferreira L.C. , Oliveira R.B. , Andreeta M.R.B.
Published: January 2025

The fabrication of free-standing porous thick films of ferroelectric BaTiO3, using a laser-assisted technique, is presented as a novel alternative to conventional methods. This approach adapts Indirect Selective Laser Sintering (ISLS) to create green films in a single laser pass, avoiding the complexities of traditional processes. Using commercial BaTiO3 powder and polyamide 12 as raw materials, laser processing parameters such as scanning laser speed and power were optimized to produce green BaTiO3 thick films with different thicknesses. After laser processing, the films were conventionally sintered and characterized for phase composition, microstructure, porosity, and electrical properties. X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy confirmed the tetragonal BaTiO3 phase, while mercury intrusion porosimetry revealed a bimodal pore distribution. Impedance spectroscopy demonstrated a positive temperature coefficient of resistivity (PTCR) effect, with a peak resistivity near the Curie temperature. The PTCR behavior is hypothesized to arise from better oxygen adsorption due to the porosity and oxygen vacancies generated during sintering by carbon residues from polyamide degradation. The results demonstrate that ISLS is a versatile technique for producing high-quality, free-standing porous ceramic thick films with potential for a wide range of applications.
Conceptualization Of Regulations On The Use Artificial Intelligence Technology In Indonesia
Authors: Mariyam Siti -
Published: January 2025

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become an integral part of everyday life, and this technology has now transformed the way we work and has controlled various industries and sectors of human life. The potential benefits of AI today are enormous, including increased efficiency, productivity, and innovation. However, the use of AI also raises concerns about ethical, legal, social, and privacy issues for society. This paper aims to measure the benefits of AI in human life, the urgency of regulating the use of AI technology, and the concept of regulating the use of AI in Indonesia. This paper reviews various literature and studies related to AI and its impact on society. The results show that AI has the potential to bring significant benefits to human life, but its unregulated use can also pose significant risks. Therefore, it is important to establish regulations that address AI concerns from ethical, legal, and social perspectives. This paper also proposes a concept of regulating AI in Indonesia that includes general requirements, development to use and sanctions, and AI use must also uphold ethical and legal principles, such as transparency, accountability, and human rights protection. This paper emphasizes the importance of balancing the benefits and risks of AI to ensure safe and responsible use in society.
Criminology Study of Perpetrators of Threats and Defamation Crimes on Social Media Based on ITE Law NO 11 of 2008
Authors: Wiranda Aditya nefa , Prasetyoningsih Nanik
Published: January 2025

This research aims to analyze Criminological Studies on Perpetrators of Threats and Defamation Crimes on Social Media Based on the ITE Law NO 11 of 2008. Furthermore, this article uses normative legal methods. The research attempts to examine all laws and regulations related to legal issues being researched. Thus, this research will involve an in-depth analysis of Law No. 11 of 2008 concerning Electronic Information and Transactions (UU ITE) and other related regulations and regulations relating to criminalizing perpetrators of crimes of threats and defamation on social media. This research shows that defamation is a detrimental and often disturbing societal act. Various motives and factors can encourage someone to carry out these actions, ranging from personal or emotional motives to power and control. In the digital era, threats and defamation through electronic media are increasingly becoming an urgent problem, with laws such as the ITE Law No. 11 of 2008, which provide a clear legal basis and strict sanctions against perpetrators. The law protects individuals in maintaining their good name and reputation in cyberspace. With heavy criminal sanctions, it is hoped that law enforcement against criminal acts of defamation can be more effective, provide justice for victims, and prevent cases like this in the future.