bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SYSTEMS THINKING FORMATION IN THE CONDITIONS OF CLIP THINKING INFLUENCE ON THE PROCESS OF FOREIGN LANGUAGE TEACHING
Authors: Shpak Natalya O.
Published: October 2024

Background. Modern higher education is focused on creating conditions for developing systems thinking skills and reducing the negative impact of clip thinking on the cognitive abilities of the younger generation. Digital technologies contribute to the development of students’ skills such as multitasking, reaction speed, a high degree of adaptability, but also negatively affect the perception of the world around them, students stop analyzing the information they receive and do not strive to make a complete picture of the fragments received.
Purpose. Identify psychological and pedagogical conditions for the formation of systems thinking skills and reducing the negative impact of clip thinking on the process of learning a foreign language.
Materials and methods. The study was conducted by analyzing scientific, educational and methodological literature and pedagogical experience in the formation of cognitive competence among students of higher educational institutions. The article interprets, analyzes and generalizes the theoretical principles and practical experience of developing students’ systems thinking skills, and also studies the influence of clip thinking on the cognitive process in foreign language classes.
Results. The author identified the main learning difficulties caused by the negative impact of clip thinking, and proposed psychological and pedagogical conditions for their minimization and the formation of systems thinking skills. The basis of the psychological and pedagogical conditions is the implementation of problem-based learning through solving communicative tasks in the process of studying modern forms of the English verb. The obtained research results contribute to the methodology and technology of modern professional education, expand the understanding of the role of problematic communicative tasks in foreign language classes and speak about the need to rely on students’ ability to multitask and the mechanism of adaptation to information overload.
issue of recreational use of sildenafil
Authors: Wdowiak Krystian , Maciocha Agnieszka , Wąż Julia , Witas Aleksandra , Drogoń Justyna , Chachaj Weronika , Słomka Paulina , Gwóźdź Edyta , Konieczko Dawid , Gardocka Ewa
Published: October 2024

Introduction and purposeErectile dysfunction (ED) is defined as the inability to achieve and maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse. Sildenafil is one of the most popular medications used to treat ED, but in recent years, there has been a growing trend of recreational use of this drug, particularly among younger individuals, which can lead to numerous negative health consequences. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of the recreational use of sildenafil, especially among younger individuals.State of knowledgeSildenafil primarily affects the smooth muscle of the blood vessels in the corpora cavernosa, facilitating the achievement and maintenance of an erection. The most common side effects of sildenafil include headaches, dizziness, facial flushing, nausea, muscle pain, and nasal congestion. A relatively rare but potentially severe side effect of sildenafil is priapism. It is noted that those using sildenafil recreationally often have multiple sexual partners, as the drug helps them prolong sexual encounters. Studies show that sildenafil is used by groups that should have no problem achieving sexual satisfaction. The use of the drug in combination with alcohol and other substances is noticeable.ConclusionsRecreational use of sildenafil appears to be an increasingly common behavior among young men who do not have difficulties achieving or maintaining an erection. There are no studies yet that specifically examine the recreational use of sildenafil among women. It is necessary to conduct further research to better understand the prevalence of this phenomenon and to identify the factors that predispose individuals to engage in recreational use of sildenafil.
Large-scale acute hospital bed and mattress implementations: insights and recommendations
Authors: Martindale Deborah , Allan Liz
Published: October 2024

Background/Aims

Hospital-wide replacement of beds and mattresses, often referred to as an ‘implementation’, can be an efficient way of ensuring that these products are up to date. However, large-scale implementations can be daunting for healthcare managers, with a lack of guidance to support them through this process. This service evaluation aimed to provide practical suggestions to NHS managers who are planning a hospital-wide acute hospital bed and mattress implementation from peers who have completed similar projects.

Methods

Interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of seven NHS staff members, all of whom had held a leading role in managing and executing an implementation project with the provider Medstrom. Exploratory, qualitative, semi-structured interviews were conducted, with data analysed through content-driven narrative analysis, using NVivo software.

Results

Four themes relating to large-scale bed and mattress implementation were identified: drivers; specification process; financial process; and physical implementation and training. Communication and planning were considered crucial, as was selecting a provider that could offer support throughout the implementation. Participants had been able to successfully implement a large volume of products, but all felt that a resource allowing healthcare managers to draw on the experiences of others who had previously completed a large-scale implementation project would be beneficial.

Conclusions

Large-scale mattress implementations are achievable with the right input and support. Learning from the experiences and knowledge of peers who have previously been involved in implementations can be very useful for healthcare managers embarking on this kind of project.
A NOD to the future in cataract surgery
Authors: Kirkpatrick Nigel
Published: October 2024

Nigel Kirkpatrick delves into a new tranche of data on catarct surgery
Diary of a Spectacle Designer
Authors: Davies Tom
Published: October 2024

Tom Davies examines the pitfalls of venturing online
Picture perfect
Authors: Read Nicola
Published: October 2024

Nicola Read assess the power of visual content on social media accounts
Love your lenses week highlights safe wear
Authors: McCarthy-McClean Andrew
Published: October 2024

Andrew McCarthy-McClean finds out how optical practices participated in the BCLA’s annual campaign
Making the model work
Authors: Clark Andy
Published: October 2024

Andy Clark explores how going private is not the only answer to improving business
AI-wear of the future
Authors: Jones Simon
Published: October 2024

Simon Jones looks at some of the ways artificial intelligence has worked its way into the eyewear sector
Good eye health for all
Authors: White Emma
Published: October 2024

Emma White explores how the profession supported National Eye Health Week’s drive to promote the importance of good eye health
Optometry's untapped potential
Authors: McCarthy-McClean Andrew
Published: October 2024

Specsavers outlines how optometry can ease pressure on the NHS and improve patient outcomes. Andrew McCarthy-McClean reports
Smart and sparkly
Authors: McCarthy-McClean Andrew
Published: October 2024

Andrew McCarthy-McClean reports on the launches from EssilorLuxottica's recent press day
CPD: An introduction to cerebral visual impairment in children 4
Authors: Tooth Cirta
Published: October 2024

In the final part of this series looking at an important cause of visual impairment in children, Cirta Tooth outlines how children with cerebral visual impairment can be supported
Eye health in the workplace
Authors: White Emma
Published: October 2024

World Sight Day encouraged people to #LoveYourEyes and focused on eye health in the workplace. Emma White reports
Diary of a spectacle designer
Authors: Davies Tom
Published: October 2024

Tom Davies ruminates on the pros and cons of a helicopter trip to the Grand Canyon against free delivery for customers
Truth or myth
Authors: Seo Junghee
Published: October 2024

This month, in our series looking at common myths concerning contact lenses, Junghee Seo and John Meyler look at whether soft torics are time consuming to fit
Head for AIO 2023
Authors: Nagra Manbir
Published: October 2024

Dr Manbir Nagra offers a round-up of the annual AIO conference which took place October 7-8th, 2023 at the Chesford Grange Hotel in Warwickshire
CPD: Improving practice communication: Part 1
Authors: Anderson Fiona
Published: October 2024

In this first of a series of articles Fiona Anderson discusses the importance of communication within optical practice and strategies to ensure safe and professional interactions between staff members and between staff and patients
The evolution of vision
Authors: Clarkson Douglas
Published: October 2024

Dr Douglas Clarkson considers the evolutionary processes behind the diverse vision systems across current and extinct species
Diary of a spectacle designer
Authors: Davies Tom
Published: October 2024

Tom Davies finds his history of making eyewear for films is most helpful when there's a photoshoot to arrange
Innovation and partnership
Authors: Hale Mike
Published: October 2024

Mike Hale talks to Tom Freyne, chief executive officer at Scope, about his family's history in healthcare and how innovation can help Scope better serve its practice partners
CPD: An evidence-based approach to dry eye
Authors: Black Tina Arbon
Published: October 2024

Using the TFOS DEWS II Diagnostic and Methodology Report Tina Arbon Black highlights the importance of following an evidenced based approach to dry eye assessment and ensuring safe and effective patient communication
Counting the cost of retail theft
Authors: White Emma
Published: October 2024

Emma White explores the financial and emotional impacts of practice break ins and thefts as well as the efforts made to protect staff and deter criminals
Campaign for a National Eye Health Strategy
Authors: White Emma
Published: October 2024

Specsavers wants to improve access to eye care in England. Emma White reports
Lessons to your former self
Authors: Morris Paul
Published: October 2024

Paul Morris is inspired by the recent College diploma ceremony to visit his younger self
Eyes on road safety
Authors: White Emma
Published: October 2024

How eye conditions can impact road safety and the importance of wearing corrective eyewear when driving were among the issues highlighted this Road Safety Week. Emma White reports
The rise of british eyewear manufacturing
Authors: Cosby Zoe
Published: October 2024

Zoe Cosby investigates how Eyewear.Ltd is on a mission to bring bespoke handmade frames back into popularity
Looking forward to learning
Authors: Nagra Manbir , Black Tina Arbon
Published: October 2024

Manbir Nagra and Tina Arbon Black discuss the sessions they are looking forward to at the upcoming 100% Optical event at Excel London on February 24-26
See the vision
Authors: Read Nicola
Published: October 2024

Nicola Read rounds up her top advice for getting the most out of social media
A basic introduction to artificial intelligence for eye care professionals
Authors: Hasan Md Mahmudul , Meijering Erik , Sowmya Arcot , Kalloniatis Michael , Phu Jack
Published: October 2024

Australia based researchers and academics, Md Mahmudul Hasan, Erik Meijering, Arcot Sowmya, Michael Kalloniatis and Jack Phu, offer an introduction to the world of artificial intelligence. The authors describe and define key terminologies and processes, helping ECPs understand this new and rapidly changing field. The article forms the first of a short series looking at AI and its growing role within eye care
Social life
Authors: Blackmore Francesca
Published: October 2024

Managing a practice's social media presence can offer optical assistants and other practice staff an additional skillset, but there has to be a measured approach, says Francesca Blackmore
Truth or myth
Authors: Mahil Aman , Jong Monica
Published: October 2024

This month, in our series looking at common myths concerning contact lenses, Dr Aman Mahil and Monica Jong look at the risks of myopia on vision loss
CPD: Improving practice communication: part 3
Authors: Anderson Fiona
Published: October 2024

This third article by Fiona Anderson, highlights the skillset and role of the dispensing optician
Delivering for the bottom billion
Authors: White Emma
Published: October 2024

A new IAPB report explains the issues that inhibit eye care on a global scale. Emma White reports
Optimising the partnership
Authors: McCarthy-McClean Andrew
Published: October 2024

Andrew McCarthy-McClean explores what expansion in the secondary care sector means for primary care providers
CPD: Artificial intelligence 2
Authors: Teo Zhen Ling , Wei Daniel Shu
Published: October 2024

In a continuation of our AI series, Singapore based researchers Zhen Ling Teo and Daniel Shu Wei Ting describe advances in AI applications with respect to anterior eye conditions
On the frontline
Authors: Douglass Tony
Published: October 2024

Level 3 apprenticeship optical tutor Tony Douglass discusses core values for optical assistants
Sustainable strategies
Authors: Pellett Tracy
Published: October 2024

Tracy Pellett outlines the progress of the sustainability journey at Specsavers
A glimpse of the 1980s
Authors: King Andrew
Published: October 2024

Andrew King delves into offers a review of the 1985 Bausch + Lomb Guide to Contact Lenses
Looking for lenses
Authors: Black Tina Arbon
Published: October 2024

Tina Arbon Black reports on ophthalmic lenses and and dispensing technology at 100% Optical
Call for improved digital communication
Authors: McCarthy-McClean Andrew
Published: October 2024

A joint vision to develop eye care services noted the need for better use of primary care and improved digital connectivity. Andrew McCarthy-McClean reports
Forty forte
Authors: Bennett Chris
Published: October 2024

Forty years ago on her 40th birthday, Dame Mary Perkins was opening Specsavers inaugural store on the firm's home island of Guernsey. Four decades later she returned on her 80th to unveil the group's new look. Chris Bennett took the opportunity to catch up with the Specsavers founders
GOC scores full marks for second year
Authors: McCarthy-McClean Andrew
Published: October 2024

A report found the GOC's timeline for FTP cases was one of the shortest among healthcare regulators. Andrew McCarthy-McClean reports
CPD: Optometric practice
Authors: Price Andrew D
Published: October 2024

This second article by Andrew Price, looks at the use of dry eye questionnaires and discusses some of the available diagnostic tear tests
Dry eye clinical practice patterns of UK optometrists
Authors: Casemore Rachel , Dutta Debarun
Published: October 2024

Drs Rachel Casemore and Debarun Dutta summarise the findings from their recent study of UK optometrists' dry eye practice patterns
United against glaucoma
Authors: White Emma
Published: October 2024

Emma White reports on the global efforts to raise awareness about the vital need for regular eye examinations in support of World Glaucoma Week
A hidden symptom
Authors: McAllister Maria
Published: October 2024

Optometrist Maria McAllister offers insights about dry eye and the menopause
Making contacts
Authors: Hale Mike
Published: October 2024

Mike Hale reports on the contact lens sector at 100% Optical
CPD: TFOS Lifestyle
Authors: Budimlija Nikolina , Farrant Sarah
Published: October 2024

In the second of our TFOS Lifestyle report summaries, Nikolina Budimlija and Sarah Farrant discuss the possible impact of cosmetics on the ocular surface
Understanding real-time diurnal contact lens comfort
Authors: Pucker Andrew
Published: October 2024

Dr Andrew Pucker discusses changes that occur to contact lens comfort over the course of a day
Making it on to the list
Authors: Blackmore Francesca
Published: October 2024

Francesca Blackmore delves into the subject of timely cataract referrals
CPD: Emotional impact of sight loss
Authors: Tooth Cirta
Published: October 2024

Specialist optometrist Cirta Tooth considers the emotional ramifications of sight loss for patients and how ECPs can help
One drop a day. Easy, right?
Authors: Morris Paul
Published: October 2024

asks whether more can be done to maintain drop adherence
A well-oiled machine
Authors: McCarthy-McClean Andrew
Published: October 2024

Andrew McCarthy-McClean speaks to Nisha Rach about how the roots of great care stem from the family tree
Not only, but also
Authors: Salt John Dixon
Published: October 2024

The modern day presbyope can expect both comfort and function from their spectacles. Yet this was not always the case. Current designs are the culmination of much research and development. John Dixon Salt chronicles the missteps and ingenuities of presbyopic spectacles past
BCLA and College unite for landmark conference
Authors: McElduff Corrina
Published: October 2024

BCLA council member, Corrina McElduff, discusses some of the specifics of the BCLA Focus programme from the upcoming collaboration between the College of Optometrists and BCLA
Pay in practice
Authors: Bernstein Adam
Published: October 2024

Adam Bernstein outlines best practice for managing employee pay within an optical practice
Keys to successful practice management 1
Authors: Samuel David
Published: October 2024

In the first of six articles covering running and managing an optical practice, David Samuel looks at how to build an effective teams
CPD: Artificial intelligence 4
Authors: Znamenska Maria
Published: October 2024

In a continuation of our AI series, OCT expert Maria Znamenska, an associate professor of ophthalmology and chief medical officer for AI Altris, describes the potential applications of AI technology to OCT scanning in optometric practice
On the frontline 3
Authors: Douglass Tony
Published: October 2024

Tony Douglass discusses why OAs need to know practice procedures for providing sight tests and spectacles within the General Ophthalmic Services contract
Eco in the detail
Authors: Blackmore Francesca
Published: October 2024

Francesca Blackmore looks under the hood of sustainability in optical practice
CPD: The self-fitting of contact lenses
Authors: McDonnell Claire
Published: October 2024

Claire McDonnell explores the worrying trend of individuals self-fitting their contact lenses
What makes a winner?
Authors: Smith Martin
Published: October 2024

Optician talks to Lincolnshire based optometrist, Dr Martin Smith, winner of the Optician Optometrist of the Year Award 2023
CPD: Vision and cricket
Authors: Fogt Jennifer Swingle , Fogt Nick
Published: October 2024

US-based academics Jennifer Swingle Fogt and Nick Fogt describe research evidence showing how visual skills affect performance on the cricket field
100% quality
Authors: Kirkpatrick Nigel
Published: October 2024

Nigel Kirkpatrick discusses clinical quality in ophthalmology services and how optimum patient care can be achieved
How it works: Technology underlying optical coherence tomography
Authors: Clarkson Douglas
Published: October 2024

Dr Douglas Clarkson continues his series on optometric technology with a deep dive into the technology underlying OCT
Diary of a Spectacle Designer
Authors: Davies Tom
Published: October 2024

Tom Davies asks whether polarised lenses offer the wearer real benefits beyond a point-of-sale impression
Eyes on the road
Authors: Nagra Manbir
Published: October 2024

Dr Manbir Nagra speaks to Professor Joanne Wood, international expert in driving and vision, to understand more about her cuttingedge research and what led to her interest in this area
CPD: Navigating the current CPD requirements
Authors: Mehta Michelle
Published: October 2024

As we approach the last stage of this CPD cycle Michelle Mehta explains registrant responsibilities including the new reflective exercise
Dedication paid off
Authors: Arbon Black Tina
Published: October 2024

Tina Arbon Black talks to Jayne Abel, CEO and co-founder of Eyespace, winner of Frame of the Year 2023
Design language
Authors: Cosby Zoe
Published: October 2024

Optician's series on female creatives in the eyewear industry continues with Zoe Cosby interviewing Danielle Rattray
CPD: Inherited retinal diseases 1
Authors: Arnold Sarah
Published: October 2024

Optometrist Sarah Arnold presents thought-provoking case studies on the topic of inherited retinal disease, taking into consideration both the clinical signs of significance and to need to communicate in a sensitive and thoughtful manner
Keys to successful practice management 3
Authors: Samuel David
Published: October 2024

In the third instalment of his series on practice management, David Samuel turns his attention to how optical practices can create patient loyalty
On the frontline 5: Communication skills in optical practice
Authors: Douglass Tony
Published: October 2024

Tony Douglass explores key communication skills for OAs as well as identifying potential communication barriers
Benefits of being a winner
Authors: Blackmore Francesca
Published: October 2024

Francesca Blackmore extols the virtues of the Optician Awards and encourages readers to enter
Focus brings rewards
Authors: Bennett Chris
Published: October 2024

Chris Bennett speaks to Michelle Beach of Park Vision, Nottingham winner of the Contact Lens Practice of the Year Award sponsored by CooperVision
CPD: TFOS Lifestyle: Part 3 – Elective medications and procedures
Authors: Farrant Sarah
Published: October 2024

In the latest instalment of our TFOS series, TFOS ambassador Sarah Farrant describes the role elective medications and elective procedures have to play on the integrity of the ocular surface
Specsavers revenue reaches £4bn globally
Authors: Bennett Chris
Published: October 2024

Chris Bennett previews Specsavers' annual report as the multiple celebrates its 40th anniversary
Diary of a Spectacle Designer
Authors: Davies Tom
Published: October 2024

Tom Davies is banking on a rimless revolution
Circularity in packaging
Authors: Bussey Eva
Published: October 2024

Eva Bussey talks about completing the circle of supply to aid sustainability
Shoplifting – the crime that never stops taking
Authors: Berstein Adam
Published: October 2024

Adam Berstein delves into the problem of shoplifting and what to do about it
Keys to successful practice management 4
Authors: Samuel David
Published: October 2024

David Samuel explains how mastering marketing techniques can help practice managers attract new patients
CPD: Driving and visual impairment
Authors: Nguyen Helen , Keay Lisa
Published: October 2024

Australia based researchers from the University of New South Wales (UNSW), Helen Nguyen and Professor Lisa Keay, present the outcomes of recent systematic review which describe the role of visual impairment on driving and risk of crashing
Artificial Intelligence-Driven All-Terrain Vehicle Crash Prediction and Prevention System
Authors: Khorsandi Farzaneh , De Moura Araujo Guilherme , Ferreira Lima dos Santos Fernando
Published: October 2024

Highlights

An AI-driven system for predicting and preventing ATV crashes was developed.

Machine learning model achieved rollover prediction accuracy of over 99%.

The system has the potential to significantly reduce ATV-related injuries and fatalities by enabling preemptive actions.

Abstract.All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) crashes have become a public health concern in the U.S. over the past decades, resulting in numerous fatalities and hospitalizations. Most of those incidents could have been prevented if riders could better assess their ability to handle risks. Currently, risk factors associated with ATV incidents have already been studied. However, little effort has been made toward developing practical applications that assist the rider in preventing crashes. Commercial ATV safety systems, such as Farm Angel, focus on post-crash detection and emergency medical services (EMS) alerting rather than preventive measures. Machine learning prediction models can be used to assist riders in taking preventive measures to avoid an imminent crash. In this study, we developed a system that leverages the predictive power of machine learning algorithms to assess the likelihood of a crash in real-time and alert the riders, thus allowing them to prevent the crash. To the best of our knowledge, this is the only system ever developed for ATVs specifically that can predict rollover incidents. The crash likelihood is estimated by a deep neural network that considers the ride parameters (e.g., ATV speed, turning radius, and roll and pitch angles), ATV characteristics (e.g., width, length, wheelbase), and human factors (i.e., presence of a rider). The ATV characteristics and the presence of a rider are retrieved from the rider’s input through a smartphone application developed specifically for this study. The ride parameters are retrieved from an embedded system (attached to the ATV). Validation and performance tests indicated that: (1) the proposed device has a rollover prediction system with an accuracy superior to 99%; (2) the system can detect roll and pitch angles with average errors of 0.26 and 0.54 degrees, respectively; and (3) the system can detect the ATV’s speed with an average error of 0.75 m s-1. Keywords: ATV safety, Crash prediction, Machine learning, Rollover prevention.
Perspective: Closing the Regulatory Gap: Addressing Challenges for Autonomous Agricultural Equipment in California
Authors: Khorsandi Farzaneh , Pinkerton Kent E. , Hong Minyoung
Published: October 2024

Highlights

Outdated safety regulations pose challenges for autonomous agricultural tractors.

Cal/OSHA denied the petition to update regulations for autonomous tractors.

The industry's experimental variance shows potential but lacks sufficient data.

Recommendations include third-party safety testing and creating an advisory group.

Abstract.As of August 2024, California’s agricultural tractor safety regulations, developed over half a century ago, are still focused on classic tractors with human operators. These regulations are problematic when applied to autonomous equipment. Since agricultural equipment has advanced, producers have faced challenges in complying with existing regulations for autonomous machinery in California

A petition (No. 596) was submitted in December 2021 to the State of California Department of Industrial Relations and reviewed in March 2023. The petition requesting modification of the agricultural tractor's traditional regulation was recently submitted to the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (OSHSB). The OSHSB denied both petitions. This article discusses more details related to California agricultural tractor safety regulations, the petition to modify the traditional regulations, discussions on OSHSB meetings regarding the petition, and several suggestions to resolve the current issue.. Keywords: Agricultural equipment, Autonomous, Regulation, Safety, Tractor
Molecular diversity of rice germplasms from Thailand characterized by different pericarp colors using Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) markers
Authors: SAENGPRAJAK JUTHAPORN , PHETSOM JIRAPA , SANGDEE APHIDECH , ATICHART PORNTIP , THEERAKULPISUT PIYADA
Published: October 2024

Abstract. Saengprajak J, Phetsom J, Sangdee A, Atichart P, Theerakulpisut P. 2024. Molecular diversity of rice germplasms from Thailand characterized by different pericarp colors using Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) markers. Biodiversitas 25: 2839-2848. Studying genetic diversity in rice using molecular markers is necessary for varietal identification, better understanding of relationships and evolution, and conserving genetic resources. This study aimed to evaluate the genetic diversity of rice germplasms from Thailand characterized by different pericarp colors using ISSR markers. Thirty-two white and colored rice genotypes were assessed using 16 selected ISSR markers, which generated 179 alleles ranging from 210 to 1,374 bp, averaging 11.19 alleles per locus. The polymorphism percentage ranged from 40% to 100%, averaging 80%. The genetic similarity coefficient ranged from 0.458 to 0.855, while PIC values varied between 0.15 and 0.45, averaging 0.31. ISSR markers show a high Resolving Power (RP) of 12.15 and a Marker Index (MI) of 3.20, indicating their significant discriminatory power and effectiveness in detecting genetic diversity. The dendrogram grouped genotypes into five clusters: Cluster I included 5 red pericarp genotypes, Cluster II had 6 purple-black pericarp genotypes, Cluster III had 2 mixed white and purple-black pericarp genotypes, Cluster IV included 18 white pericarp genotypes, and Cluster V comprised 1 white pericarp genotype. PCA results corresponded to seed coat traits, forming eight grouping patterns similar to dendrogram clusters. These findings show that ISSR markers effectively assess genetic diversity and relationships in rice germplasms, providing valuable information for managing germplasm resources, developing variety-specific markers, and supporting rice breeding programs.
Genetic comparison among some cultivars of Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don. using three intergenic spacers of the chloroplast genome
Authors: SUSANTO AGUS HERY , DWIATI MURNI
Published: October 2024

Abstract. Susanto AH, Dwiati M. 2024. Genetic comparison among some cultivars of Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don. using three intergenic spacers of the chloroplast genome. Biodiversitas 25: 2999-3007. Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don belongs to the Apocynaceae family and is recognized as both an ornamental plant and a medicinal herb. By means of both hybridization and mutation breeding, numerous cultivars of C. roseus have been developed over time. This encourages the necessity for molecular characterization to establish a DNA barcode for each cultivar, particularly in relation to its potential as a medicinal herb. Therefore, this study aimed to genetically compare some cultivars of C. roseus based on three Intergenic Spacers (IGS) of the chloroplast genome, namely trnQ-rps16, rps16-trnK, and trnL-rpl32. Ten samples of C. roseus were randomly collected from around Purwokerto City, Central Java, Indonesia, representing cultivars with various corolla and flower eye colors. Universal primers were used to amplify the three molecular markers. The results showed that some insertion-deletions (indels) with rps16-trnK and trnL-rpl32 were observed, indicating some potential barcodes for C. roseus cultivars, following pharmacological analysis. On the other hand, very little genetic difference among samples was found with trnQ-rps16. It can be concluded that some other molecular markers, specifically those more closely related to the expression of flower color in C. roseus, should be explored to obtain candidate DNA barcodes in assisting the authentication of medicinal herbs.
Diversity and morphological characteristics of flowers in reticulatus, inodorus, and makuwa group melon (Cucumis melo)
Authors: SAPUTRA HELFI EKA , SYUKUR MUHAMAD , SUWARNO WILLY BAYUARDI , SOBIR SOBIR
Published: October 2024

Abstract. Saputra HE, Syukur M, Suwarno WB, Sobir. 2024. Diversity and morphological characteristics of flowers in reticulatus, inodorus, and makuwa group melon (Cucumis melo). Biodiversitas 25: 3130-3137. Characterization of melon (Cucumis melo L.) flowers is useful for crossing. This research aimed to obtain information about the diversity and morphological characteristics of melon flowers in the reticulatus, inodorus, and makuwa groups. Fifteen genotypes from 3 groups (5 genotypes each) were tested. There were 8 flower characters observed. Principal component and cluster analysis have been used to calculate similarity coefficients. Grouping based on flower characters was divided into 4 groups with a diversity of 52.7%. There are no morphological characteristics of flowers to characterize each group of melons. The reticulatus group has flower characteristics as follows: NMFP of 5-5.4 petals, NHFP of 5-5.2 petals, SLMF of 0.95-2.9 cm, SLHF of 0.36-1.98 cm, DMFS of 1.01-1.34 mm, DHFS of 2.57- 3.15 mm, DMF of 3.12-4.99 cm, and DHF of 8.03-8.61 cm. The inodorus group has flower characteristics as follows: NMFP of 4-5 petals, NHFP of 5 petals, SLMF of 1.34-3.18 cm, SLHF of 0.7-2.46 cm, DMFS of 1.16-1.61 mm, DHFS of 2.72-2.94 mm, DMF of 3.47-4.34 cm, and DHF of 6.56-8.15 cm. The makuwa group has flower characteristics as follows: NMFP of 5-8 petals, NHFP of 5-6 petals, SLMF of 1.32-1.98 cm, SLHF of 1.04-1.74 cm, DMFS of 1.07-1.36 mm, DHFS of 2.67- 3.86 mm, DMF of 3.31-3.85 cm, and DHF of 7.16-8.35 cm.
Population structure and exploitation rate of striped snakehead (Channa striata) in Kawunganten Swamp, Cilacap, Indonesia: Important for fisheries management
Authors: SETYANINGRUM NUNING , SUGIHARTO SUGIHARTO , SUSATYO PRIYO
Published: October 2024

Abstract. Setyaningrum N, Sugiharto, Susatyo P. 2024. Population structure and exploitation rate of striped snakehead (Channa striata) in Kawunganten Swamp, Cilacap, Indonesia: Important for fisheries management. Biodiversitas 25: 3255-3263. Snakehead (Channa striata) is a swamp fish spread in almost all Indonesian waters and has a high economic value. In addition, Bringkeng, Grugu, and Babakan Villages are included in Kawunganten Swamp areas with good fishing potential. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the population structure and the exploitation rate of Channa striata in Kawunganten Swamp Cilacap, Indonesia. The survey method with purposive random sampling was used and this study was conducted from April to July 2020. The fish samples were collected from three Bringkeng, Grugu, and Babakan Swamp stations, while the variables examined were abundance and rate of exploitation. The parameters measured included the length of Channa striata as well as the growth and mortality rate in each swamp. Abundance was analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test, and exploitation rate was assessed with Pauly's model using FAO-ICLARM Stock Assessment Tools II (FISAT II). The results showed that the highest abundance of Channa striata was in Bringkeng station, three times higher than in Babakan station. Bringkeng and Babakan stations were considered a fish-rearing swamp due to the dominance of adolescence-sized samples. Grugu was identified as the breeding area because many of the fish present were in the reproductive phase. Estimated growth parameters showed a maximum length (L?) of 35.18 cm, while exploitation rate of 0.28 was not considered excessive capture. Efforts to manage Channa striata were important to preserving biodiversity and ensuring the sustainability of Kawunganten Swamp ecosystem for future generations.
On embedding into Lorentz spaces (a distant case)
Authors: Baidaulet Amangeldy Tokenuly , Suleimenov Kenesary
Published: October 2024

In the work we study an upper bound for a non - increasing non - negative function in the space $L^{p}(0,1)$ by the modulus of continuity of a variable increment $\omega_{p,\alpha,\psi}(f,\delta)$. We show that for the increment of the function of form $f(x)-f(x+hx^{\alpha}\psi(x))$ in the bound the modulus of continuity casts into the form $\omega_{p,\alpha,\psi}(f,\frac{\delta}{\delta^{\alpha}\psi(\frac{1}{\delta})})$. We also study the embedding $\tilde H_{p,\alpha,\psi}^\omega \subset L(\mu,\nu)(\mu \not= \nu)$ (a distant case). We obtained necessary and sufficient conditions for the parameters $p$, $\alpha$, $\mu$, $\nu$ and the functions $\psi$, $\omega$ for this embedding.
Gastronomic tourism on the rise. Profile of the gastronomic tourist in Cuenca (Ecuador)
Authors: Benalcázar Hugo , Rodríguez Marín Francisco , Guevara Plaza Antonio
Published: October 2024

The main objective of this research was to identify whether gastronomic tourism is developed in the city of Cuenca (Ecuador), next to other questions such as: what is the profile of the gastronomic tourist, tourist resources associated with local gastronomy, level of tourist satisfaction, and economic contribution of gastronomic tourism. A mixed research method supported by the SPSS statistical program was used to evaluate the reliability, level of correlation of variables and other statistical techniques to validate the results found. It should be noted that gastronomic tourism is indeed being developed, in spite of the existence of a limited offer of products of this type of tourism. However, the economic contribution is very significant. In addition, and as a fundamental contribution, the results presented will serve as a reference for the generation of projects and plans in the short or long term, which will allow the consolidation of Cuenca as a gastronomic tourist destination.
Análisis de la gastronomía local a través de las fuentes de información, imagen y satisfacción
Authors: Hernández-Rojas Ricardo , Huete-Alcocer Nuria
Published: October 2024

El propósito de este estudio es examinar el efecto que la satisfacción de los visitantes con los restaurantes tradicionales ejerce sobre la gastronomía local, la imagen general de una ciudad y la lealtad a dicho destino. El trabajo de campo se realiza en la ciudad de Córdoba (España), a través de un cuestionario para conocer las opiniones de los comensales en reconocidos restaurantes que basan su cocina en platos tradicionales elaborados con alimentos autóctonos de calidad. Los datos alcanzados confirman que una experiencia satisfactoria con la comida de un restaurante tradicional tiene un efecto positivo en la imagen del destino y la gastronomía del sitio, así como en las intenciones de recomendar y repetir la visita a dicho destino. La metodología utilizada se basa en un estudio descriptivo, donde no existen trabajos previos que agrupen con respecto a la satisfacción del restaurante tradicional, la comida, el servicio y el ambiente, siendo esto una novedad. El trabajo aporta implicaciones teóricas y prácticas para que los gestores turísticos puedan utilizar nuevas estrategias para fidelizar al turista que visita una ciudad desde la perspectiva gastronómica.
Highly chiral exceptional point in coupled resonators perturbed by nanoscatterers
Authors: Ramezanpour Shahab
Published: October 2024

With employing strong chirality in an optical system, the direction of light propagation can be controlled and subwavelength particles can be detected. Here, we show that a different kind of chiral exceptional point (EP) with high (spatial) chirality can appear in a coupled resonator perturbed by nanoscatterers, in which both the distance and position of the scatterers can be tuned. We achieve strong chiral EP in two different distances between the resonators, with chirality around 0.99, in both cases. Besides, chiral EP associated with the higher harmonic whispering gallery mode is achieved, with chirality around 0.95. We also investigate the interaction of particles with same and different spin of light, which can mimic the spin-up and spin-down of electrons in quantum mechanics. The proposed device provides a tunable scheme to achieve high directionality of different cavity modes by incorporating one or more nanoscatterers. With incorporating more than one tunable mechanism such as nanoscatterers, nonlinearity, and time-modulation, simultaneously, the conventional limitations in chirality and sensitivity may be surpassed in the presence of unwanted imperfections of fabrication and noisy environment.
On the applicability of Kirchhoff’s law to the lasing regime
Authors: Loirette-Pelous Aurelian , Greffet Jean-Jacques
Published: October 2024

In 1860, Kirchhoff showed that the radiance emitted by a hot body is the product of its absorptivity by a universal function of temperature and frequency, which he defined as blackbody radiance. With the advent of semiconductors, it has been shown that Kirchhoff’s law can be extended to account for electroluminescence and photoluminescence in a cavity. Hence, the question of the applicability of Kirchhoff’s law in the lasing regime arises naturally. In this work, we show that Kirchhoff’s law accounts for the lasing transition. It also enables the modeling of important features of the lasing regime, such as the frequency, directivity, and polarization of both the first lasing mode and the non-lasing background. Finally, we show that it enables to recover the Schawlow-Townes spectral linewidth. In summary, Kirchhoff’s law appears to be a versatile tool to model light emission from the thermal to the lasing regime.
Learning and diSentangling patient static information from time-series Electronic hEalth Records (STEER)
Authors: Liao Wei , Voldman Joel
Published: October 2024

Recent work in machine learning for healthcare has raised concerns about patient privacy and algorithmic fairness. Previous work has shown that self-reported race can be predicted from medical data that does not explicitly contain racial information. However, the extent of data identification is unknown, and we lack ways to develop models whose outcomes are minimally affected by such information. Here we systematically investigated the ability of time-series electronic health record data to predict patient static information. We found that not only the raw time-series data, but also learned representations from machine learning models, can be trained to predict a variety of static information with area under the receiver operating characteristic curve as high as 0.851 for biological sex, 0.869 for binarized age and 0.810 for self-reported race. Such high predictive performance can be extended to various comorbidity factors and exists even when the model was trained for different tasks, using different cohorts, using different model architectures and databases. Given the privacy and fairness concerns these findings pose, we develop a variational autoencoder-based approach that learns a structured latent space to disentangle patient-sensitive attributes from time-series data. Our work thoroughly investigates the ability of machine learning models to encode patient static information from time-series electronic health records and introduces a general approach to protect patient-sensitive information for downstream tasks.
Experiences of mental health and poverty in high-income countries during COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-aggregation
Authors: Allen Jessica , Smith-Carrier Tracy , Smye Victoria , Gewurtz Rebecca , Isard Roxanne , Goldszmidt Rebecca , Marshall Carrie Anne
Published: October 2024

Systematic reviews have been published that explore the experiences of living in poverty, yet there are no known studies that have synthesized the findings of research exploring the experiences of mental health and wellbeing of persons living in poverty during COVID-19. To address this gap, we conducted a systematic review and meta-aggregation of qualitative evidence using the method described by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) following the PRISMA guidelines. Of 8391 titles and abstracts screened, we included 23 studies in our review and meta-aggregation. In conducting our meta-aggregation, we generated three synthesized findings: 1) magnification of inequities and marginalization during COVID-19; 2) difficulty accessing resources during the lockdown; and 3) the lockdown causing changes in mental health and wellbeing. The findings of this review suggest that persons living in poverty experienced increased difficulties with mental health and well-being during COVID-19. This was largely influenced by the presence of pandemic restrictions and increasing financial precarity that resulted in rising levels of psychosocial distress. Research regarding the plight of persons living in low income is needed to inform policy and practice for future pandemics in order to decrease the vulnerability of this population. Implementing evidence-informed policies and practices that mitigate the negative psychological effects of physical distancing restrictions on persons living in poverty are needed, and these can be identified through future research efforts.
The interaction of relative age with maturation and body size in female handball talent selection
Authors: Tróznai Zsófia , Utczás Katinka , Pápai Júlia , Pálinkás Gergely , Szabó Tamás , Petridis Leonidas
Published: October 2024

The relative age effects (RAEs) and biological maturation are two distinct factors that have been identified to affect talent identification and selection. Previous research has suggested that talent selection should include sport-specific technical tasks instead of body size and/or physical test measurements, assuming that the technical tasks are less influenced by variations in maturation. Our purpose was to examine the prevalence of RAEs and to assess biological maturity, body size, and body composition within a single talent selection program for female handball players. Team coaches’ recommendations, handball-specific drills, and in-game performance were the selection criteria. Birth distribution of all U14 female handball players were analysed (N = 3198) grouped in two-year age cohort. Measurements of body size, body composition (InBody 720), and bone age were performed in all players who were selected to participate in the selection program (n = 264) (mean±sd age: 13.1±0.6 years) and in a sample of not-selected players (n = 266) (mean±sd age: 13.2±0.6 years). Players were grouped in quarter-year intervals based on their date of birth. Chi-square was used to examine quartile distributions, differences between quartiles were tested with one-way analysis of variance, whereas differences between the selected and not-selected groups were examined with independent sample t-test (Cohen d effect size). Binary logistic regression was used to determine the effects of the predictors on the selection. In terms of all registered players, there was no difference in birth distribution. RAEs appeared at the first selection stage and were evident at all following stages. Quartiles differed only between the first and the last quartiles in body size and muscle mass. Only bone age differed between consecutive quartile or semi-year groups. Body size, body composition, and maturity had a significant, but of moderate power, effect on the selection. Larger body height increased the likelihood of selection by about 12%, larger muscle mass by 12% to 25%, larger bone age by 350–400%, while larger percent body fat decreased selection chances by 7%. The sport-specific criteria could not eliminate the prevalence of the RAEs. Relative age was connected to bone age, but not convincingly to body size and muscle mass. Although bone age had the largest effect on the selection, this was not associated with larger body size or muscle mass. Early maturation increased selection chances mainly during the coaches’ subjective evaluation, but not convincingly when sport-specific tasks were applied. Given that differences were mostly evident between players of more than 1.5-year variation in their chronological age, one-year age cohorts within talent selection or the rotation of the cut-off dates of the bi-annual age grouping could be a promising strategy while also including maturation status and relative age in performance evaluations.