bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The development of Vi-Connect: An educational game for the social inclusion at school of students with vision impairment
Authors: Manitsa Ifigeneia , Livanou Maria , Burnett Heyes Stephanie , Barlow-Brown Fiona , Gardia Nuria , Siegfried Olivia , Clarke Zoe , Coelho Holly , De Caro Alberto
Published: December 2024

Students with vision impairment experience multiple social emotional challenges at school which stem from communication difficulties in the social relationships they develop with teachers and classmates. This study took a multi-method, multi-informant participatory approach to develop “Vi-Connect: A Social School Journey”, a digital intervention in the form of an educational game aimed at promoting school social inclusion of students with vision impairment by scaffolding advocacy and social communication skills. The study consisted of three phases: Co-production before developing Vi-Connect (Phase 1), development of the prototype (Phase 2) and assessment of Vi-Connect (Phase 3). Four and five adolescents with vision impairment participated in Phases 1 and 3 of the study respectively. A second group of young people from Eye-YPAG (N = 8), a youth advisory group for eye and vision research, participated in Phase 1. Six professionals in the field of vision impairment participated in Phases 1 and 3. Reflexive Thematic Analysis was used to analyse the findings of Phases 1 and 3. A prototype of Vi-Connect including three school-based scenarios was developed based on the Curriculum Framework for Children and Young People with Vision Impairment and the experiences and suggestions of all participants. The findings of this study indicated that digital interventions can be an additional supportive educational tool to support the social inclusion of students with vision impairment, as they can facilitate coping with challenging social situations and promote self-advocacy. This is one of the first studies to involve students with vision impairment in intervention development, prioritising the lived experiences of this student population. Additionally, acknowledging the key role of professionals in the school inclusion of students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, this study involved professionals in the field of vision impairment. This research opens the field for the development of more accessible educational interventions for students with sensory impairments.
An automated approach to identify sarcasm in low-resource language
Authors: Khan Shumaila , Qasim Iqbal , Khan Wahab , Khan Aurangzeb , Ali Khan Javed , Qahmash Ayman , Ghadi Yazeed Yasin
Published: December 2024

Sarcasm detection has emerged due to its applicability in natural language processing (NLP) but lacks substantial exploration in low-resource languages like Urdu, Arabic, Pashto, and Roman-Urdu. While fewer studies identifying sarcasm have focused on low-resource languages, most of the work is in English. This research addresses the gap by exploring the efficacy of diverse machine learning (ML) algorithms in identifying sarcasm in Urdu. The scarcity of annotated datasets for low-resource language becomes a challenge. To overcome the challenge, we curated and released a comparatively large dataset named Urdu Sarcastic Tweets (UST) Dataset, comprising user-generated comments from (former Twitter). Automatic sarcasm detection in text involves using computational methods to determine if a given statement is intended to be sarcastic. However, this task is challenging due to the influence of the user’s behavior and attitude and their expression of emotions. To address this challenge, we employ various baseline ML classifiers to evaluate their effectiveness in detecting sarcasm in low-resource languages. The primary models evaluated in this study are support vector machine (SVM), decision tree (DT), K-Nearest Neighbor Classifier (K-NN), linear regression (LR), random forest (RF), Naïve Bayes (NB), and XGBoost. Our study’s assessment involved validating the performance of these ML classifiers on two distinct datasets—the Tanz-Indicator and the UST dataset. The SVM classifier consistently outperformed other ML models with an accuracy of 0.85 across various experimental setups. This research underscores the importance of tailored sarcasm detection approaches to accommodate specific linguistic characteristics in low-resource languages, paving the way for future investigations. By providing open access to the UST dataset, we encourage its use as a benchmark for sarcasm detection research in similar linguistic contexts.
A machine-learning model for prediction of Acinetobacter baumannii hospital acquired infection
Authors: Neuman Ido , Shvartser Leonid , Teppler Shmuel , Friedman Yehoshua , Levine Jacob J. , Kagan Ilya , Bishara Jihad , Kushinir Shiri , Singer Pierre
Published: December 2024

Background

Acinetobacter baumanni infection is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Early recognition of patients at risk for infection allows early proper treatment and is associated with improved outcomes. This study aimed to construct an innovative Machine Learning (ML) based prediction tool for Acinetobacter baumanni infection, among patients in the ICU, and to examine its robustness and predictive power.

Methods

For model development and internal validation, we used The Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care database (MIMIC) III data from 19,690 consecutive adult patients admitted between 2001 and 2012 at a Boston tertiary center ICU. For external validation, we used a different dataset from Rabin Medical Center (RMC, Israeli tertiary center) ICU, of 1,700 patients admitted between 2017 and 2021. After training on MIMIC cohorts, we adapted the algorithm from MIMIC to RMC and evaluated its discriminating power in terms of Area Under the Receiver Operating Curve (AUROC), sensitivity, specificity, Negative Predictive Value and Positive Predictive Value.

Results

The prediction model achieved AUROC = 0.624 (95% CI 0.604–0.647). The most significant predictors were (i) physiological parameters of cardio-respiratory function, such as carbon dioxide (CO2) levels and respiratory rate, (ii) metabolic disturbances such as lactate and acidosis (pH) and (iii) past administration of antibiotics.

Conclusions

Infection with Acinetobacter baumanni is more likely to occur in patients with respiratory failure and higher lactate levels, as well as patients who have used larger amounts of antibiotics. The accuracy of Acinetobacter prediction may be enhanced by future studies.
Corporate governance, financial performance, and economic policy uncertainty. Evidence from emerging Asian economies
Authors: Zhang Chaoyang
Published: December 2024

This study examines the impact of corporate governance and economic policy uncertainty on financial performance in non-financial firms in three emerging Asian economies: Pakistan, China, and Malaysia. The study analyzed 400 non-financial firms listed on these countries’ stock markets for ten years (2012–2021). Data on corporate governance, financial performance, and CSR scores were obtained from DataStream. The study used regression analysis and the generalized method of moments (GMM) for its robustness analysis. Our findings show that all attributes of corporate governance practices have a significant positive impact on return on assets, except for the existence of an audit board committee for all selected economies. Moreover, corporate governance practices have a significant positive relationship with return on equity. However, in the case of earnings per share (EPS), all attributes have a significant positive relationship except board size with earnings per share. Economic policy uncertainty significantly moderates corporate governance practices and financial performance of organizations belonging to Asian economies. This study advocated the implications for the government and policymakers to improve corporate governance practices, especially during periods of high economic uncertainty.
Neuroimaging markers and disability scales in multiple sclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mirmosayyeb Omid , Yazdan Panah Mohammad , Mokary Yousef , Mohammadi Mohammad , Moases Ghaffary Elham , Shaygannejad Vahid , Weinstock-Guttman Bianca , Zivadinov Robert , Jakimovski Dejan
Published: December 2024

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a central nervous system disorder marked by progressive neurological impairments. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) parameters are key paraclinical measures that play a crucial role in the diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of MS-related disability. This study aims to analyze and summarize the existing literature on the correlation between MRI parameters and disability in people with MS (pwMS).

Methods

The PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched from inception to July 19, 2024, and a meta-analysis was carried out using R software version 4.4.0 and the random effects model used to determine the pooled correlation coefficient, with its 95% confidence interval (CI), between MRI measurements and disability scales.

Results

Among 5741 studies, 383 studies with 39707 pwMS were included. The meta-analysis demonstrated that Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) had significant correlations with cervical cord volume (r = -0.51, 95% CI: -0.62 to -0.38, I2 = 0%, p-heterogeneity = 0.86, p-value<0.01), cortical lesion volume (r = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.36 to 0.53, I2 = 68%, p-heterogeneity<0.01, p-value<0.01), brain volume (r = -0.40, 95% CI: -0.47 to -0.33, I2 = 41%, p-heterogeneity = 0.05, p-value<0.05), and grey matter volume (GMV) (r = -0.36, 95% CI: -0.49 to -0.21, I2 = 0%, p-heterogeneity = 0.53, p-value<0.01), respectively.

Conclusion

This study offers evidence suggesting that cortical lesion volume, brain volume, GMV, and MRI measurements of the spinal cord may constitute reliable indicators for assessing disability in pwMS.
Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the Chinese version of the PSS-QoL questionnaire
Authors: Zhou Yu , Zhuang Linli , He Xiaoqin , Xu Li , He Qi , Li Xuemei , Ye Yali
Published: December 2024

Background

The quality of life(QoL) of patients with primary Sjögren’s syndrome(PSS) is affected by a variety of symptoms, and it is important to comprehensively assess the factors affecting patients’ QoL.The PSS-QoL is a specific tool for the assessment of patients’ QoL in the PSS. The purpose of this study was to cross-culturally adapt the PSS-QoL for the Chinese language,to establish a QoL assessment tool for PSS patients in Chinese culture and to test the reliability and validity of the PSS-QoL.

Methods

Our study period was from January 17, 2024 to June 15, 2024. The study was designed as a two-stage observational study. Double forward and backward translations of the PSS-QoL were performed for cultural adaptation to the Chinese language,and the specific steps included forward and backward translations, coordination, expert correspondence, small-sample surveys, and corrections to form the final draft of the Chinese version of the PSS-QoL. From January 29, 2024 to June 15, 2024,for the evaluation of psychometric properties, 135 patients with PSS completed the Chinese version of the PSS-QoL,Short Form-12(SF-12) and EULAR Sjögren’s Syndrome Patient Reported Index (ESSPRI).After 2 to 4 weeks,15 patients with PSS completed the Chinese version of the PSS-QoL for the second time.We used SPSS 26.0 software to statistically analyze the data, including item analysis and reliability and validity tests.

Results

The Chinese version of the PSS-QoL consists of 25 questions and can be divided into two main categories: physical (discomfort and dryness) and psychosocial. The mean score on the Chinese version of the PSS-QoL was 40.46±15.00. Among the 135 patients with PSS,92.60% were female, the mean (±SD) age was 52.76±12.74 years, and the disease duration was 5 (1.5, 9) years. There was good differentiation between the individual items and the Chinese version of the PSS-QoL,as the decision value of all the items ranged from -3.223 to -12.234 (p < 0.05), the correlation coefficient between the individual items and the whole questionnaire ranged from 0.315 to 0.730 (p < 0.05), the Chinese version of the PSS-QoL had good reliability and validity,as Cronbach’s α = 0.886, the Spearman-Brown coefficient was 0.782,the reliability of the individual items was 0.89,and the values of the I-CVI and S-CVI/AVE were all 1, indicating good psychometric properties. The construct validity between the Chinese version of the PSS-QoL and the ESSPRI was excellent (p = 0.506 ~0.687), and that between the PSS-QoL and the SF-12 was good(p = -0.464 ~ -0.673).

Conclusion

The Chinese version of the PSS-QoL possesses good reliability and validity, and all the indicies meet the metrics and satisfy the psychometrically acceptable range;therefore, it can be used as a reliable instrument for assessing the QoL of patients with PSS in China.
Delayed cord clamping: Perceptions, practices and influencers among the healthcare providers of selected healthcare facilities in Bangladesh
Authors: Jabeen Sabrina , Salam Shumona Sharmin , Gillespie Siobhan , Hasan Mehedi , Islam Sharmin , Chowdhury Anika Tasneem , Ameen Shafiqul , Balen Julie , Rahman Ahmed Ehsanur , Arifeen Shams El , Nahar Quamrun , Anumba Dilly OC
Published: December 2024

Background

Umbilical cord clamping is a procedure of separating the newborn after birth with varying recommendations worldwide based on the timing of clamping. Although the benefits of delayed cord clamping (DCC) have been acknowledged, there is a lack of understanding regarding healthcare providers’ perceptions and practices, particularly in Bangladesh. This study aimed to explore the perceptions, practices, and influencers of DCC among healthcare providers in selected secondary-level healthcare facilities in Bangladesh.

Methods

This qualitative study was conducted at two public healthcare facilities. Purposive sampling was used to select 30 participants for in-depth and key-informant interviews and non-participatory observations for 13 deliveries were done. A thematic analysis approach was employed to identify emerging themes, and interpretive phenomenological analysis of the observations helped verify and contextualise the reported practices. Statistical software N-Vivo (Version-12, Denver) was used for data analysis.

Results

Healthcare providers perceived that cord clamping should occur after one to three minutes, primarily informed by international literature, maternal health training, or peer guidance. Providers recognised DCC’s benefits, such as enhanced bonding and reduced neonatal blood transfusions, and noted potential risks of early cord clamping like delayed adaptation and hypoxia. Observation of clamping practices revealed that most providers clamped after pulsation stopped or within three minutes, while caesarean sections often required immediate clamping. Variations existed in the number and type of clamps, with an absence of standardised guidelines. Influencing factors include the cultural impact of Traditional Birth Attendants (Dais), lack of formal training, clinical emergencies, and service delivery challenges such as high patient volumes and staff shortages. Peer learning was a major influencer of practices.

Conclusion

Despite having a perception regarding DCC, gaps were identified in the practice of healthcare providers. Addressing this gap and the identified influencers will require the involvement of healthcare workers, guidance developers and planners across policy and practice.
Mechanical properties of fibre-reinforced geopolymer-cemented tailings used as backfill
Authors: Sha Xueqiang , Cheng Chao , Pan Guoyong , Zhu Zitao , Qi Chunxiao , Chen Weidong
Published: December 2024

Backfill materials are used in underground engineering to fill voids and buried excavated parts. In this study, solid waste was utilised as a raw material mixed with different amounts of polypropylene fibres to determine the optimal sodium hydroxide content, water—solid ratio, and fibre content. The uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) of the produced backfill materials was measured, and the interfacial structures were analysed via scanning electron microscopy. The results revealed that the mechanical properties of the backfill materials were influenced in the order sodium hydroxide doping > water—solid ratio > fibre doping. The optimal material composition corresponded to a sodium hydroxide content of 3%, water—solid ratio of 0.28, and fibre content of 5 ‰. The slag produced a C—S–H gel. Meanwhile, the fly ash and gangue contained large amounts of aluminium, which formed hydrated aluminosilicates. The addition of polypropylene fibres reduced the number of internal defects in the backfill structure and increased the UCS.
Two Marias: Illegitimacy and Agency on the fringes of the Restoration Court
Authors: James Ben
Published: December 2024

Soror Maria da Cruz was a nun at the convento de Nossa Senhora da Quietação in Alcântara whilst Dona Maria lived unprofessed at the convento de Santa Teresa de Jesus in Carnide. These seventeenth-century women have long been considered the same person. Both were illegitimate and were related to the royal family. An analysis of the letters that they wrote and received evidence the scope of their roles and their influence which extended into the political and diplomatic spheres.
Studi Aktivitas Fisik Pengunjung dengan Metode SOPARC di Lanskap Alun-Alun Kebumen dan Alun-Alun Karanganyar, Kebumen, Jawa Tengah
Authors: Dewi Herfiana Anggun Mustika , Pratiwi Prita Indah
Published: December 2024

Alun-alun Kebumen dan Alun-alun Karanganyar merupakan ruang terbuka hijau (RTH) yang terletak di Kebumen, Jawa Tengah. Studi menyebutkan bahwa taman dan lingkungan hutan memiliki manfaat secara fisiologis maupun psikologis. Kondisi fisik yang baik akan mempengaruhi kesehatan psikologis. Kondisi psikologis yang tidak sehat dapat menyebabkan gangguan psikologis yang dapat mempengaruhi kesehatan dan kesejahteraan individu. Dengan mengetahui aktivitas fisik yang ada di Lanskap Alun-alun Kebumen dan Alun-alun Karanganyar, diharapkan dapat meningkatkan kesehatan dan kesejahteraan masyarakat Kebumen. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah mengidentifikasi aktivitas fisik yang ada di lanskap Alun-alun Kebumen dan Alun-alun Karanganyar. Penelitian ini dilakukan menggunakan metode survei dan observasi langsung menggunakan metode SOPARC (System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities). Hasil dari penelitian ini adalah aktivitas fisik yang ada di Alun-alun Kebumen dan Alun-alun Karanganyar didominasi oleh aktivitas pasif seperti duduk, berdiri, maupun berbaring. Bagian alun-alun yang paling sering dikunjungi adalah bagian utara. Dominasi pengunjung adalah laki-laki, kelompok usia dewasa, etnis lokal berkulit sawo matang, dan jumlah kunjungan paling banyak terjadi pada hari minggu. Rekomendasi yang diberikan di dalam penelitian ini adalah rekomendasi tertulis berupa program aktivitas berdasarkan usia dan level aktivitas serta rekomendasi spasial untuk mendukung aktivitas fisik dan penggunaan alun-alun.
Kolaborasi Pembangunan Kawasan Perdesaan Margomarem Kabupaten Wonosobo
Authors: Ainaqo Ayu Annisa Annasihatul , Handayani Wiwandari , Mardiansyah Fadjar Hari
Published: December 2024

Pembangunan kawasan perdesaan adalah pembangunan beberapa desa melalui kolaborasi multi aktor dengan tahapan antara lain pembentukan, penetapan, perencanaan, pelaksanaan, monitoring, dan evaluasi. Kawasan Perdesaan Margomarem merupakan kawasan gabungan lima desa di Kabupaten Wonosobo yang terbentuk atas inisiatif pemerintah yang kemudian disambut baik oleh masyarakat lokal. Dengan modal sosial dan kerja sama yang kuat, Kawasan Margomarem ditetapkan oleh Pemerintah Kabupaten Wonosobo melalui SK Bupati Wonosobo Nomor 050/383/2020. Kawasan Margomarem kemudian menyusun perencanaan kawasan dan mulai melaksanakan pembangunan sejak akhir tahun 2021. Dalam setiap tahap, pembangunan Kawasan Margomarem melibatkan kolaborasi dari berbagai aktor. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji kolaborasi pembangunan Kawasan Margomarem. Metode analisis yang digunakan yaitu analisis stakeholder mapping, analisis bentuk kolaborasi, dan analisis collaborative governance. Studi ini menunjukkan bahwa aktor kunci dalam kolaborasi pembangunan Kawasan Margomarem yaitu BKAD, Pemerintah Desa, Bumdesma, Sekolah Lapang, Shirvano Consulting, dan Dinas Pariwisata & Kebudayaan. Aktor-aktor kunci tersebut saling berkolaborasi dengan aktor pendukung lainnya membentuk quadruple helix yang terdiri dari unsur pemerintah, masyarakat, swasta, dan komunitas. Kawasan Margomarem berjalan atas dasar kolaborasi, bergerak secara kolaboratif, dan dalam prosesnya mengalami dinamika kolaborasi. Kolaborasi yang terjadi dalam setiap tahap pembangunan Kawasan Margomarem telah mendorong akselerasi pembangunan wilayah berbasis perdesaan.
Calidad del sueño y estrés académico en estudiantes de la Universidad Católica de Colombia
Authors: Guerrero Rodríguez María Fernanda , Barrios Olis Zaira Lorena , Santacoloma Suárez Andrés Mauricio , Galindo Caballero Óscar Javier
Published: December 2024

Esta investigación pretendió establecer la relación entre el estrés y la calidad del sueño en estudiantes. Se realizó una revisión sistemática de estudios relacionados con el tema. Se emplearon las ecuaciones de búsqueda: “estrés and calidad de sueño”, “ciclos de sueño and calidad de sueño”, “estrés académico and calidad de sueño and adolescentes”, para realizar la selección de artículos en tres bases de datos como SciELO, Redalyc y Dialnet. Se incluyeron 29 artículos bajo criterios bibliométricos, como autor, revista y participantes, y en una ventana de tiempo de 20 años. Posteriormente, se aplicó el índice de calidad del sueño de Pittsburgh (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index [PSQI]) y el inventario sistémico cognoscitivista (SISCO) de estrés académico a 80 estudiantes de la Universidad Católica de Colombia, así como se realizó el análisis cuantitativo de los resultados. La relación entre el estrés académico y la calidad del sueño es débil en esta población, pero las personas que manifestaron no sentir estrés obtuvieron en promedio un puntaje de 8 en el PSQI, lo que indica bajas dificultades para dormir. Se encontraron diferencias en los puntajes de ambos índices por edad y sexo.
Fixed point results for generalized convex orbital Lipschitz operators
Authors: Zhou Mi , Li Guohui , Saleem Naeem , Popescu Ovidiu , Secelean Nicolae Adrian
Published: December 2024

Krasnoselskii’s iteration is a classical and important method for approximating the fixed point of an operator that satisfies certain conditions. Many authors have used this approach to obtain several famous fixed point theorems for different types of operators. It is well known that Kirk’s iteration can be seen as a generalization of Krasnoselskii’s iteration, in which the iterates are generated by a certain generalized averaged mapping. This approximation method is of great practical significance because the iterative formula contains more information related to the operator in question. The purpose of this study is to define weak

(

α

n

,

β

i

)

\left({\alpha }_{n},{\beta }_{i})

-convex orbital Lipschitz operators. These concepts not only extend the previously introduced Popescu-type convex orbital

(

λ
,
β

)

\left(\lambda ,\beta )

-Lipschitz operators in Fixed-point results for convex orbital operators, (Demonstr. Math. 56 (2023), 20220184), but also encompass many classical contractive operators. Popescu also proved a fixed point result for his proposed operator using the graphic contraction principle and obtained an approximation of the fixed point with Krasnoselskii’s iterates. To extend Popescu’s main results from Krasnoselskii’s iterative scheme to Kirk’s iterative scheme, several fixed point theorems are established, in which an appropriate Kirk’s iterative algorithm can be used to approximate the fixed point of a

k

k

-fold averaged mapping associated with our presented convex orbital Lipschitz operators. These results not only generalize, but also complement the existing results documented in the previous literature.
Is the Machine Surpassing Humans?
Authors: Barnard Marcel , Otte Wim
Published: December 2024

This article explores the relationship between large language models (LLMs) and humans as well as its impact on practical theology, more specifically on ritual-liturgical studies. We show how LLMs question human exceptionalism in the realms of language, creativity, grounding, and meta-representation. Subsequently, we discuss the assumed role of language in understanding who we are as humans. LLMs call for a reappraisal of Saussure’s structuralism. We demonstrate how in LLMs, structuralism converges with hermeneutic approaches to language. We speculate on the immanent interpenetration of LLMs and liturgical practices from the perspective of a revisiting of structuralism. Finally, we offer some perspectives on the future of LLMs and liturgy.
A 2D velocity field computation using multi-dimensional InSAR: a case study of the Abu-Dabbab area in Egypt
Authors: Abo Gharbia Alshimaa Y. , Saleh Mohamed , Gomaa Ahmed , Mousa Ashraf Elkutb , Hassan Moatamad R. , Abbas Ibrahim Atiatallah
Published: December 2024

In this paper, the surface deformation of Abu-Dabbab area in Egypt is analyzed. This area is appealing for a variety of investments and tourism because of its temperate climate and pristine surroundings. The ascending Sentinal-1A and Sentinal-1B data of 204 scenes from September, 2016 to December, 2021 and the descending Sentinal-1A data of 116 scenes from May, 2017 to December, 2021 are used for analysis. The surface deformation results in time series that are extracted by the small baseline subset interferometric synthetic aperture radar (SBAS-InSAR) approach. According to the InSAR monitoring data, Abu-Dabbab’s overall deformation rate is between approximately −10 mm/yr, 10 mm/yr and approximately −3 mm/yr, 3 mm/yr for vertical v

U
and horizontal (East-West) v

E
velocity respectively. These results indicate that the area is in a stable state. Field research confirms the validity of the SBAS-InSAR approach for surface deformation monitoring. By using Global Positioning System (GPS) techniques, the crustal deformation data are collected in this area. The more exact positions of the GPS station have been obtained by the recording, processing, and adjustment of GPS measurements. Within the same timeframe, there was a correlation between the GPS measurements of Marsa Alam’s station (MARS) and the InSAR results. The MARS station location’s estimated vertical and horizontal (East-West) measurements were 1.5 ± 0.5 mm/yr and −1.7 ± 0.6 mm/yr, respectively, with a 95 % confidence level from GPS data. The decomposition of the descending and ascending LOS tracks of the MARS GPS station yielded a vertical component and a horizontal component of 2.01 ± 0.4 mm/yr and −2.42 ± 0.7 mm/yr, respectively. The factors affecting the development of geological disasters are also discussed.
The assessment of 5-aminolevulinic acid photodynamic therapy in glioblastomas
Authors: Aebisher David , Mytych Wiktoria , Łoś Aleksandra , Dynarowicz Klaudia , Myśliwiec Angelika , Bartusik-Aebisher Dorota
Published: December 2024

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) using 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) has emerged as a promising strategy in the treatment of various cancers, particularly gliomas. The biosynthesis of prodrug 5-ALA plays a pivotal role in the heme production pathway of Protoporphyrin IX (PpIX), and understanding this molecular process offers significant insights into cellular physiology and therapeutic potential. This review highlights the clinical applications of 5-ALA in PDT, underscoring the translational impact of foundational research on its biosynthesis. The search, performed on PubMed and Web of Science, included both in vivo clinical studies and in vitro preclinical studies. The findings of this review emphasize the expanding potential for novel therapeutic strategies, driven by an enhanced understanding of 5-ALA biosynthesis and its application in PDT, offering a promising future for medical advancements in cancer treatment.
Pain assessment in sedated and ventilated critically ill patients
Authors: Reis Lopes José Carlos dos , Cabral de Frias Cidália de Fátima , Santos Sérgio
Published: December 2024

Pain is almost always present in critically ill people and its management represents a huge challenge for health professionals, who sometimes underestimate pain in critically ill patients, probably due to a lack of awareness or an adequate scale. However, it must be ensured that the critically ill patient has the right to pain management, thus fulfilling a professional duty and ensuring the effective humanization of care.

Objective: To identify the impact of nurses' intervention on pain assessment in critically ill patients sedated and on mechanical ventilation.

Methods: Integrative review, based on indexed material, having consulted the Ebsco search engine, with access to five electronic databases: Cinahl, Nursing & Allied Health Collection, Cochrane Plus Collection, MedicLatina and Medline, in the time horizon 2017 to 2022.

Results: The data contribute to the understanding that, when the user is ventilated, it is possible to perceive pain in order to act in the best possible way, developing scales. It is necessary to provide health professionals with scientific, technical and relational skills, encouraging the assessment and recording of a major vital sign, which is pain.

The results presented here are the result of a search for updated articles and studies on scales applied to critically ill patients, carried out at an international level.
Uso de tecnologias e a pandemia da COVID-19
Authors: Borges Fortes Amanda , Liebesny Broilo Patrícia , Saraiva de Macedo Lisboa Carolina
Published: December 2024

: A pandemia de COVID-19 promoveu o uso intenso de tecnologias da informação e comunicação (TICs) para atividades cotidianas. Diante dos entendimentos conflitantes sobre os impactos do uso dessas tecnologias na saúde mental, o presente estudo buscou aprofundar o conhecimento científico vigente, à luz dessa vivência. Em junho de 2020, 327 adultos (M=43,56) responderam a uma survey online sobre uso de TICs comparado a antes da pandemia, ansiedade (GAD-7) e bem-estar (WEMWBS). Os resultados mostraram que, além da associação positiva entre intensidade de uso e ansiedade, o uso intenso “para buscar informações” se destacou entre as finalidades, apesar do conhecimento da disseminação de informações não confiáveis. Ademais, identificou-se associação negativa entre percepção de baixo aproveitamento de novas finalidades e grau de bem-estar, denotando expectativa de mais usos desses recursos. Paralelamente à continuidade de pesquisa atenta aos desdobramentos circunstanciais, os achados sugerem repensar as orientações de saúde relacionadas ao uso de TICs no cenário pós-pandemia.
Reviving Traditional Know-How: A Comprehensive Analysis of Date Juice Processing in Moroccan Oases
Authors: Houssni M. , El Mahroussi M. , Kassout J. , Chakkour S. , Sahli A. , Kadaoui K. , Ben Sbih H. , Chaachouay N. , Kadiri M. , Ater M.
Published: December 2024

Moroccan oases host a rich array of date palm varieties, renowned for the traditional expertise in crafting local products from dates. Date juice, a quintessential local product with significant heritage value, is facing a decline in appreciation. This study delves into indigenous knowledge surrounding date juice processing. Surveys involving one hundred women from the Alnif and Tata oases in Morocco’s pre-Saharan regions were conducted. Results reveal the use of 56 medicinal and aromatic plants from 33 families and 53 genera in date juice preparation, with Lamiaceae and Asteraceae families most prevalent. Noteworthy species include Corrigiola telephiifolia Pourr. (85 citations), Cynara humilis L. (66), Cyperus longus L. (65), and Alpinia officinarum Hance (64). Date juice holds significance in traditional medicine, prized for its sensory qualities and therapeutic benefits resulting from blending date fruit with aromatic and medicinal plants. The study sheds light on traditional manufacturing processes, including palm variety selection and plant choices. It also offers insights into therapeutic applications aligning with medicinal practices. These findings enrich understanding of cultural traditions and provide essential information for their preservation and propagation.
Toward thermally stable Ni(GeSn) contacts using pre-amorphization by implantation or nanosecond laser annealing
Authors: Quintero Andrea , Coig Marianne , Mazen Frédéric , Acosta-Alba Pablo , Hartmann Jean-Michel , Gergaud Patrice , Reboud Vincent , Rodriguez Philippe
Published: December 2024

Ni-based metallization for GeSn devices provides high-quality contacts with low sheet and contact resistances. However, the Ni/GeSn system has a major drawback: its poor thermal stability due to NiGe agglomeration and Sn segregation above 350 °C. This study focuses on two different process options, namely, pre-amorphization by implantation (PAI) and UV nanosecond laser annealing (UV-NLA), to improve the thermal stability of Ni(GeSn) alloys. We have shown that the use of C-PAI or UV-NLA has a positive effect on the Ni(GeSn) morphology and helps to delay Sn segregation and NiGe agglomeration phenomena. This is a major advance in thermally stable Ni-based contacts on GeSn.

Graphical abstract
Seventh Symposium of Australian Gastronomy
Authors: Santich Barbara
Published: December 2024

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Ful Medames
Authors: Heine Peter , Harris Russell , Perry Charles , Kurtze Eva
Published: December 2024

The Query from John Thorne in PPC 41 attracted many responses, which we thought suitable for presentation together as a collection, in what might be termed a micro-symposium on this highly specific and interesting subject. 
John Thorne tells us that his editor had seen a connection with an Arabic word hamam, meaning pigeon; the thought is that the beans used are ful hamam, meaning literally pigeon peas, and that there is a pun involved since there is another word, hamam, meaning a (hot) bath and conveying the idea of something being heated. However, we are told by others that there is no word hamam meaning pigeon! 
Patience Gray has written to say that she is not satisfied with what has been said so far about the identity of the beans which are used: how, precisely, would a botanist or horticulturist refer to them? Further contributions welcome.
Tom Jaine (ed): The Good Food Guide 1993
Authors: Davidson Alan E
Published: December 2024

Tom Jaine (ed): The Good Food Guide 1993: London, Consumers' Association and Hodder & Stoughton, 1992: over 720 pp, usual kit of introductory essays, maps, etc, £14.99.
THERMOCAPILLARY BUBBLE MOVEMENT IN A VIBRATING FLUID INSIDE A ROTATING CYLINDER
Authors: Alhendal Yousuf , Touzani Sara
Published: December 2024

In a zero-gravity environment, single bubble migration under forced vibrations in a rotating cylindrical vessel is investigated numerically using Ansys Fluent software. In order to track the bubble-liquid interface, the volume of fluid (VOF) method is applied. Bubble dynamics are discussed only when thermocapillary force is considered, then compared to two cases where either vibration or rotation is added. The impact of the three forces together is analyzed. Different flow patterns are observed. A small change in vibration parameters (amplitude and frequency), as well as angular velocity, always leads to bubble deceleration compared to the cases where only thermocapillary force is applied. This bubble velocity reduction is accentuated for high vibration amplitudes and angular velocity. The Rossby number was also found to decrease with higher rotational velocity, greater vibration amplitude, and increased bubble diameter. In addition, the bubble size strongly influences migration time.
Liminality in Tanzanian Young Adult fiction
Authors: Wakota John
Published: December 2024

Common in many young adult novels are the challenges of transitioning from childhood to adulthood. During this transition, young adult characters take on ambiguous statuses and responsibilities. The liminal or threshold state is the term used to describe this transition. This article examines the transition along with how the young adult characters in selected Tanzanian young adult novels navigate it: The Birthday Party (2013) by Mkama Mwijarubi, The Temporary Orphan (2014) by Hussein Tuwa, The Adventures of Kulwa and Doto (2017) by Hussein Kayera, and If She Were Alive (2019) by Deus Lubacha. In this case, liminality serves as a framework for analysing the portrayal of the precariousness of the transition and the different strategies that young adult characters use to reveal just how the transition is both limiting and enabling. Nonetheless, given the disparity in power between the young adults and their parents/guardians, and awareness of their vulnerability, the young adult characters invent different strategies to pretend to be conforming to parental expectations while simultaneously crafting alternative ways to expose the shortcomings of the adult society. Many of the tensions in the texts can be attributed to the parents and the young adult characters’ differing ideas of what it means to be a child and an adult. Put otherwise, the notions of childhood and adulthood are just as elusive as the transition itself.
The ontological formula for eternal renewal of life in the Armenian fairy tale Barekendan and the singing game Tsapik, Tsapik, Tsirani
Authors:   Institute of Literature after Manuk Abeghyan of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia, Yerevan State University,, Seyranyan Lilit B. , Soghoyan Astghik V. ,   Institute of Literature after Manuk Abeghyan of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia, Yerevan State University,
Published: December 2024

The article focuses on Armenian folk tales, children’s folk singing games and ritual-mythical traditions, compared to their Russian, English, Albanian, and Czech equivalents. Armenian folklore is considered from the perspective of the relationship between life and death, this world and the afterlife, when ritual holidays, songs, and fairy tales become unique means of communication between the living and the dead. The authors compare Armenian fairy tale Kengane qandats tonn Astvats el chi qandil and Hovhannes Tumanyan’s adaptation Barekendan with Russian Straw Maslenitsa and The Thieving Man, Albanian The Stupid Wife and the Czech fairy tale of the same name. The Armenian singing game Tsapik, Tsapik, Tsirani is compared to the Russian Ladushki, ladushki and the English Pat-a-cake. The authors use historical-comparative, mythocritical, and structural-semiotic methods to identify hidden sublayers of the folk-lore texts. The holidays and texts are explored in terms of food, sacrifice, ma-terial objects, ritual orgies, and mythological archetypes. As it has been shown, these semantic layers bear the imprint of both Christian and pre-Christian, that is, pagan folk beliefs. According to the authors, the entire semantic system of folklore symbols/images in the samples under study is based on the idea of eternal life cycle․ The interpretation employs specific signs-symbols. The compared fairy tales manifest a paradigm of sacrificial objects for the afterlife – oil and rice, bread, gruel, clothes, canvas, and money. The following units – grand-mother, grandfather, grandson, axe, food, tree (Tree of Life, World Tree, Family Tree), touching hands, and hare are considered in the semiotic system of the Armenian singing game under study. It is assumed that the grandmother stands for Maslenitsa, while the grandfather – for Great Lent, and, accordingly, the grandchild – for Easter. For the first time in the Armenian culturological discourse, the hare is identified with Easter, as a symbol of fertility and renewal of life. The interdisciplinary research combines scientific, ethnographic, theological, and literary perspectives. Verbal folklore is studies together with visual representations – illustrations of medieval Armenian books.
A new study of the cultural dialogue of Oscar Wilde and Russia (Book review: Kuznetsova, E.V. (ed.) (2023) O. Uayl’d i Rossiya: problemy poetiki i retseptsii [O. Wilde and Russia: Issues of poetics and reception]. Moscow: IWL RAS)
Authors:   Kazan Federal University, Krylov Viacheslav N.
Published: December 2024

A multi-author collection dedicated to the problems of Oscar Wilde’s reception in Russian culture is reviewed. The compositional and thematic integrity of the book is evaluated, as well as the scientific novelty of the worls included in the collection. It is concluded that the authors managed to convincingly show the socio-historical and cultural prerequisites for the popularity of Wilde’s works in Russia, and to significantly clarify and expand the historical and literary facts of the functioning of the writer’s works in a foreign environment.
Captivated by the ballad (Book review: Anisimov, K.V. & Anisimova, E.E. (2023) Ocherki teorii i istorii russkoy ballady. Zhanrologicheskoe issledovanie [Essays on the theory and history of Russian ballads. Genre research]. Krasnoyarsk: Siberian Federal University)
Authors:   Tomsk State University, Kiselev Vitaly S.
Published: December 2024

The research concept of the monograph by Konstantin Anisimov and Evgeniya Anisimova Essays on the Theory and History of Russian Ballads. Genre Research is considered. Attention is focused on original theoretical and methodological approaches to the analysis of the genre poetics of the ballad. The novelty in the reconstruction of the genre history of the Russian ballad from Vasily Zhukovsky’s ballads to works of the late Soviet era is evaluated. The diversity of identified genre variants of the ballad, with a well-argued transhistorical genre core preserved, is noted.
The emergence of conventional theater and its implications for the theatrical scenery (scenic design – the structure of the play and mise-en-scène – costume design)
Authors:   Luminus Technical University College, Hamza Moayyad
Published: December 2024

Vsevolod Meyerhold was one of the most influential theorists of conventional theater who actively promoted creative models he laid out in his articles, speeches, and lectures. This study analyzes Meyerhold’s perspective of conventional theater, drawing on the available modern sources. In relation to Meyerhold and other pioneers of this theatrical approach, the article aims to clarify the concept of conventional theater in terms of scenery. The author focuses on the specificity of theatrical conventions and the origins of Meyer-hold’s artistic creativity in his theorizing about the politics of theater, which depends on the use of the viewer’s imagination and their involvement in the theatrical play.
Impact of comprehensive rehabilitation on functional capacity, fatigue, and quality of life among long-term COVID-19 survivors in resource limited settings - a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sharma Digvijay , Vaish Hina
Published: December 2024

INTRODUCTION: Months or even year after COVID 19 infection, patients suffered from persistent symptoms. The present study aimed to evaluate the impact of comprehensive rehabilitation on functional capacity, fatigue, and quality of life in long-term COVID-19 survivors in resource limited settings. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Comprehensive rehabilitation comprising of aerobic, strength, balance, flexibility, breathing exercise and education was administered in low-resource settings to patients aged 25-60 years diagnosed with long COVID in this randomised controlled trial. Functional capacity (assessed by six-minute walk test), fatigue (assessed by fatigue severity scale), and quality of life (assessed by EQ-5D-5L) were documented at the baseline and after six weeks in intervention (n=19) and control (n=19) groups. Categorical variables were reported as percentages and continuous variables as mean and standard deviation (SD). Independent t-test was used for the between group comparison and paired t test for within group comparison to establish the statistical significance. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Effect size and post hoc power analysis were performed. Effect sizes were interpreted according to the Cohen's classification. RESULTS:  Significant improvements were observed in fatigue (p = 0.006, effect size = -1.23), EQ-5D-5L index scores (p = 0.007, effect size = -0.73), EQ-5D visual analog scale scores (p = 0.002, effect size = 1.09), and six-minute walk distance (p < 0.0001, effect size = 1.37) following the rehabilitation program. CONCLUSION: Comprehensive rehabilitation in low-resource settings effectively enhances quality of life, reduces fatigue, and improves functional capacity among long-term COVID-19 survivors.
Pencak Silat as a Comprehensive Method of Mental, Physical, and Spiritual Growth: A Systematic Review
Authors: Nugroho Haris , Gontara Satria Yudi , Dwina Angga Prayogi , Jariono Gatot
Published: December 2024

Objectives. The study aimed to better understand physical performance by reviewing the literature on the role that Pencak Silat plays in developing elite athletes. The traditional Indonesian martial art Pencak Silat provides a comprehensive method encompassing mental, physical, and spiritual growth.
Materials and methods. The literature regarding Pencak Silat impact on the development of elite athletes was analysed using a PRISMA filter. This study used a systematic evaluation of pertinent literature to determine Pencak Silat impact on mental endurance, motor ability, and physical fitness. The preparation of Pencak Silat athletes for competition through physical conditioning was addressed in articles published between 2019 and 2024. Electronic searches were conducted through Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus. Having reviewed the literature, all the works that discuss the development of elite athletes in Pencak Silat were compiled.
Results. This study’s thorough literature review revealed that Pencak Silat contributes to enhancing the resilience, agility, flexibility, and strength of athletes’ bodies. Furthermore, the Pencak Silat concept imparts the courage, discipline, and strategic thinking abilities that are necessary to become exceptional athletes. The results of this study also demonstrate Pencak Silat capacity to achieve a balance between mental and physical attributes, which is crucial for overcoming obstacles in both domestic and international competition. It is anticipated that the study’s findings will contribute to a better understanding of Pencak Silat as an all-encompassing and excellent instrument for athlete development.
Conclusions. Pencak Silat is a method of self-development that helps athletes become exceptional in all spheres of their lives — physically, psychologically, and spiritually. It is not just a martial art. Pencak Silat, which emphasizes endurance, mental toughness, and strategy, is an effective instrument for attaining great performance in sports.