bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MENTAL HEALTH LITERACY SURVEY AMONG PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM CONDITION: A PRELIMINARY STUDY
Authors: Shalihin Siti Amirah Syarafana , Ilias Kartini , Amin Nur Azma , Che Daud Ahmad Zamir , Alsabbah Saher Ali Mohammad
Published: April 2024

Recently, mental health literacy (MHL) research has been growing widely in the literature. However, research on MHL in Malaysia is limited, and caregivers’ MHL is often overlooked. As such, this study was conducted to examine the MHL of parents of children with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC). This preliminary cross-sectional study recruited parents of children with ASC from a few selected therapy centers in Klang Valley to examine their mental health literacy. Descriptive statistics were used to determine the level of mental health literacy. Most respondents were mothers of children with ASC, from the Malay and Muslim groups, and had a formal education up to the tertiary level. MHL’s mean (SD) scores among 61 parents of children with ASC were 119.28 (9.52) out of 160. In conclusion, the study showed that participants were mostly aware of mental illness. However, most participants had stigmatizing beliefs about social interaction and marriage with people with mental illness. Additional research should be conducted to understand further MHL and other variables among parents of children with ASC.
Fostering mathematical connections and habits of mind: A problem-based learning module for elementary education
Authors: Purnomo Yoppy Wahyu , Nabillah Rokhmatun , Aziz Tian Abdul , Widodo Sri Adi
Published: April 2024

Previous research has highlighted the challenges of improving students' mathematical skills, particularly in connecting mathematical concepts to everyday life and developing strong mathematical habits of mind. This research aims to integrate problem-based learning (PBL) into a mathematics module to enhance mathematical connection abilities and mathematical habits of mind. The ADDIE method was employed to achieve this goal, encompassing five stages: Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation. The findings indicate that media, material, and language experts deemed the module highly suitable. Furthermore, the product was rated as highly practical based on teacher assessments, student responses, and observations during implementation. Effectiveness tests of the product, conducted through MANOVA, t-tests, and N-gain tests, revealed that the module is highly effective in enhancing students' mathematical connection abilities and moderately effective in improving their mathematical habits of mind. These findings underscore the importance of integrating digital learning technologies to increase the module's engagement and accessibility.
The students' mathematics self-regulated learning and mathematics anxiety based on the use of chat GPT, music, study program, and academic achievement
Authors: Delima Nita , Kusuma Dianne Amor , Paulus Erick
Published: April 2024

In the era of society 5.0, the reach of student learning resources is increasingly wider, with the internet and free AI-based search engines. The use of music during learning is a way for students to increase learning motivation. This research aims to find out: (1) Whether ChatGPT technology and music used during independent study have an impact on students' Mathematics Self-Regulated Learning (MSRL) and Mathematics Anxiety (MA); (2) Whether MSRL and MA have an association with the study program students choose; and (3) Whether MSRL and MA have an association with students' academic achievement. This research uses a correlational descriptive research method. The data collection technique uses a survey, implementing Google Forms. The respondents of this research were students at several universities in Indonesia. The research results show a significant difference in MSRL between students who use ChatGPT and students who do not use ChatGPT during independent learning. However, there was no significant difference in MSRL between students who listened to music and those who did not listen to music during independent learning. There was no significant difference in MA between students who used ChatGPT and those who did not use ChatGPT during independent study. There was no significant difference in MA between students who listened to music and those who did not listen to music during independent study. There is a significant association between MSRL and the origin of the student's Study Program, but there is no significant association between MA and the origin of the Study Program. There is no significant association between MSRL and Academic Achievement. There is no association between MA and students' Academic Achievement.
Earnings management and corporate governance during COVID-19: Evidence from the European capital market
Authors: Ricapito Francesco Paolo
Published: April 2024

The objective of this paper is to analyse the impact of COVID-19 on the earnings manipulation of firms and whether corporate governance has a mitigating effect. The methodological approach consists of two steps: in the first stage, a pooled ordinary least squares (OLS) regression model has been implemented to compute the earnings management proxies, whereas in the second stage panel data regression analysis has been adopted to test the effects of corporate governance variables on the earnings management proxies themselves. Using data from STOXX Europe 600 as a proxy for the European capital market, it is found that the level of companies’ earnings manipulation increased during the pandemic. In particular, companies have engaged in more accounting and real earnings management (REM) practices. The findings show that a larger board helps to mitigate the positive relationship between COVID-19 and earnings manipulation, whereas no mitigating effect for board independence, board diversity and chief executive officer (CEO) duality has been found. In addition, an industry analysis has been developed both for robustness purposes and in order to check which sectors have been most and least affected by the pandemic. In particular, the findings show how the most affected industries reported a higher level of earnings management, resulting in a worse reporting quality. This paper provides additional evidence on the impact of COVID-19 on earnings management using a strong multi-country level governance setting. The results of this study provide useful suggestions for business practice, investors and policymakers.
From a disposable to a sustainable fashion industry: A review of the shameful trade flows of used textiles and the need to address fast fashion
Authors: Owusu-Wiredu Prince
Published: April 2024

While waste production can contribute to a variety of environmental issues, including greenhouse gas emissions, the production of waste from fast fashion is no exception. Spanning across various sectors such as agriculture, petrochemical production, manufacturing, logistics, and retail, the clothing and textiles industry is considered one of the most polluting industries globally (Bailey et al., 2022). It is responsible for approximately 8 to 10 per cent of total carbon emissions and 20 per cent of global wastewater. In 2021, Chile, for instance, emerged as the fourth-largest importer of used textiles, and the first in Latin America. Currently, imports have surpassed 126,000 million tons per year, with China, the United States, and the Republic of Korea accounting for the majority of imports (Pérez et al., 2022). Drawing on a systematic literature review, the paper aims to shed light on the adverse environmental impacts of fast fashion as a new business approach. By doing so, the paper stresses the need for immediate legal action to halt the current practices of dumping low-quality second-hand clothing in regions of the Global South that lack the infrastructure to effectively handle such hazardous materials. On the whole, the paper concludes that textile waste, similar to plastic waste, is clearly hazardous and, unfortunately, rather obscurely regulated.
Quantifying Earth’s topography: steeper and larger than projected in Digital Terrain Models
Authors: Voigtländer Anne , Rheinwalt Aljoscha , Tofelde Stefanie
Published: April 2024

Grid- or pixel-based models, used across all sciences, scales, and
spatial resolution, carry projection errors. Taking Digital Elevation
Models (DTMs), where 3D landscapes are sampled slope-dependent and
inhomogenously and then projected onto 2D grids, create first-order
errors on topographic metrics, such as surface area or slope angles. We
quantify this error by comparing topographic metrics calculated on
gridded DTMs of synthetic landscapes with their analytical solution.
Because the error in surface area is proportional to the cosine of its
slope angle, we can correct the models. Application to real-world
landscapes in California, USA, reveal systematic underestimation of
surface area by up to a third, and mean slope angles by up to
10$^{\circ}$ in steep topography in current DTMs.
Correcting the projection error allows for more accurate estimates of
surface area and volume and the use of slope distribution to define the
physical space of surface processes at any scale.
The potential damage of laparoscopic electrocoagulation on ovarian reserve in endometriomas reduced in benign ovarian cysts: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lee Tsung-Hsien , Lin Yu-Hsuan , Hsia Li-Hsin , Huang Yun-Yao , Chang Hao-Jung
Published: April 2024

Background Laparoscopic cystectomy for ovarian endometriomas
and benign ovarian cysts often involves the use of hemostatic methods,
with electrocoagulation using bipolar energy as a common approach. This
study aimed to assess the impact of electrocoagulation compared to
nonthermal hemostatic methods on ovarian reserve during such surgeries.
Objectives To evaluate the influence of electrocoagulation
using bipolar energy versus nonthermal hemostatic methods on ovarian
reserve in patients undergoing laparoscopic cystectomy for endometriomas
and benign ovarian cysts. Search Strategy A systematic review
with meta-analysis was conducted by searching the Cochrane Library,
PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases. Entry terms associated
with MeSH terms, such as “ovarian cysts,” “laparoscopy,”
“electrocoagulation,” and “anti-Müllerian hormone” or “antral
follicle count” were used for articles published before October 2022.
Selection Criteria Randomized controlled trials (RCTs)
comparing the impact of nonthermal hemostatic methods with
electrocoagulation on ovarian reserve during laparoscopic cystectomy
were included. The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for Randomized Controlled
Trials (ROB 2.0) was utilized to assess the quality of included studies.
Data Collection and Analysis Thirteen RCTs involving 1043
patients were included in the meta-analysis. Postoperative serum
anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels and antral follicle counts (AFC)
were analyzed using Review Manager ver. 5.4. Main Results In
patients with endometriomas, the nonthermal hemostatic group exhibited
significantly higher postoperative AMH levels at one, three, six, and 12
months compared to the bipolar group. Conversely, no significant
differences in AMH levels were observed in patients with benign ovarian
cysts. Similarly, the AFC levels showed no significant differences,
except for a lower postoperative AFC in the electrocoagulation group for
endometrioma cases. Conclusions Nonthermal hemostatic methods
are associated with better preservation of ovarian reserve compared to
bipolar electrocoagulation in laparoscopic cystectomy for ovarian
endometriomas. However, no significant impact on ovarian reserve was
observed with bipolar electrocoagulation in patients with benign ovarian
cysts.
Perovskite mini modules: over 30 years of lifetime projected via thermal stress testing
Authors: Mavlonov Abdurashid , Hishikawa Yoshihiro , Kawano Yu , Negami Takayuki , Hayakawa Akinobu , Tsujimura Sho , Okumura Takuro , Minemoto Takashi
Published: April 2024

The stability of methylammonium lead iodide (MAPbI
)-based flexible perovskite (PVK) mini modules was
studied under thermal stress. For this purpose, PVK mini modules,
consisting of 10 serially connected cells with an aperture area of 9 cm
, were subjected to elevated temperatures of 85℃,
95℃, and 105℃ for 4000 h. The photovoltaic (PV) parameters of PVK mini
modules were periodically measured by interrupting the thermal stress
tests. Evolution of series resistance, short circuit current, and fill
factor showed monotonic reduction, whereas shunt resistance and open
circuit voltage depicted three stage degradation: (i) initial rapid
degradation; (ii) quasi stable range; and (iii) gradual monotonic
degradation stages, which are the indication for the presence of several
degradation mechanisms. Using the experimental data, activation energy (
E) of degradation was studied by adopting the
Arrhenius model. E of 1.062 eV (102.5 kJ/mol)
was obtained for the maximum output of the total device. Device
lifetime, which is defined as the point where the efficiency has reduced
to 80% of its initial value, 30.6 years was estimated, i.e.,
performance loss of around 0.65% per year, at module temperature of
45℃.
Chemical characterization of different wood fragments and their volatile composition in model spirit solutions
Authors: Smailagic Anita , Veljovic Sonja , Levic Steva , Solevic-Knudsen Tatjana , Nedovic Viktor , Pavlovic Vladimir , Natic Maja
Published: April 2024

This study characterizes oak (sessile and pedunculate oak) and alternative wood (black locust, Myrobalan plum, wild cherry, and mulberry) species as important sources of volatile compounds of aged spirits. Nowadays, their fragments are used to hasten the brandies? aging process. The ATR-FTIR spectra of analyzed wood samples are similar, only the mulberry FTIR spectrum contains unique peaks primarily due to its highest lignin content (40.93%). Using the untargeted GC-MS approach, a total of forty-one volatile compounds were identified in the wood extracts in a model spirit solution. The volatile profiles of alternative wood extracts in a model spirit solution were significantly different, both quantitatively and qualitatively, compared to those of oak. Coniferyl (23.14 ?g/g?26.6 ?g/g) and sinapyl (23.56 ?g/g?25.82 ?g/g) alcohols were the most abundant volatile compounds in investigated oak extracts. Resorcinol and coniferyl alcohol were the most abundant volatile compounds in black locust, sakuranin in wild cherry, while resorcinol and ?-resorcinaldehyde in mulberry wood. To the best of our knowledge, sakuranin has not been detected in wild cherry wood until now. Besides wood chemical characteristics, the technology used during the aging process strongly influences on volatile profiles of aged brandies, thus, these compounds are potential chemical markers for discrimination between wood species as well as aging technologies.
A Study of Diversity and Performance in Internal Audit Teams: Insights from Chief Audit Executives
Authors: Bonrath Annika , Eulerich Marc
Published: April 2024

Given heterogeneous findings on how diversity impacts performance, we investigate diversity in internal audit teams. Using responses from 302 chief audit executives, we analyze demographic and cognitive diversity’s effects on perceived internal audit performance. Our metrics go beyond gender diversity to include nationality and education. National diversity gains importance with the increasing internationalization of companies and the global focus of internal auditing. Our findings highlight that gender diversity is conducive to team performance, whereas a skewed gender composition may impede it. We find that national and educational diversity might enhance perceived performance. However, our results indicate that in certain configurations, such as gender-uniform groups, perceived performance may be higher, revealing a complex relation between our measures for diversity and perceived performance. Our findings reveal diversity may induce biases to exclude minority groups, such that teams do not integrate additional perspectives to improve decision-making and offset the expected benefits of diversity.

Data Availability: The data that support the findings of this study are available from the authors upon request.
Female Protection Against Diabetic Kidney Disease Is Regulated by Kidney-Specific AMPK Activity
Authors: Lee Hak Joo , Min Liang , Gao Jingli , Matta Shane , Drel Viktor , Saliba Afaf , Tamayo Ian , Montellano Richard , Hejazi Leila , Maity Soumya , Xu Guogang , Grajeda Brian I. , Roy Sourav , Hallows Kenneth R. , Choudhury Goutam Ghosh , Kasinath Balakuntalam S. , Sharma Kumar
Published: April 2024

Reduced kidney AMPK activity is associated with nutrient stress–induced chronic kidney disease (CKD) in male mice. In contrast, female mice resist nutrient stress–induced CKD. The role of kidney AMPK in sex-related organ protection against nutrient stress and metabolite changes was evaluated in diabetic kidney tubule–specific AMPKγ2KO (KTAMPKγ2ΚΟ) male and female mice. In wild-type (WT) males, diabetes increased albuminuria, urinary kidney injury molecule-1, hypertension, kidney p70S6K phosphorylation, and kidney matrix accumulation; these features were not exacerbated with KTAMPKγ2ΚΟ. Whereas WT females had protection against diabetes-induced kidney injury, KTAMPKγ2ΚΟ led to loss of female protection against kidney disease. The hormone 17β-estradiol ameliorated high glucose–induced AMPK inactivation, p70S6K phosphorylation, and matrix protein accumulation in kidney tubule cells. The mechanism for female protection against diabetes-induced kidney injury is likely via an estrogen-AMPK pathway, as inhibition of AMPK led to loss of estrogen protection to glucose-induced mTORC1 activation and matrix production. RNA sequencing and metabolomic analysis identified a decrease in the degradation pathway of phenylalanine and tyrosine resulting in increased urinary phenylalanine and tyrosine levels in females. The metabolite levels correlated with loss of female protection. The findings provide new insights to explain evolutionary advantages to females during states of nutrient challenges.

Article Highlights
Immunometabolic Signatures of Circulating Monocytes in Humans With Obesity and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Smeehuijzen Lisa , Gijbels Anouk , Nugteren-Boogaard Joline P. , Vrieling Frank , Boutagouga Boudjadja Mehdi , Trouwborst Inez , Jardon Kelly M. , Hul Gabby B. , Feskens Edith J.M. , Blaak Ellen E. , Goossens Gijs H. , Afman Lydia A. , Stienstra Rinke
Published: April 2024

Obesity is associated with chronic inflammation and metabolic complications, including insulin resistance (IR). Immune cells drive inflammation through the rewiring of intracellular metabolism. However, the impact of obesity-related IR on the metabolism and functionality of circulating immune cells, like monocytes, remains poorly understood. To increase insight into the interindividual variation of immunometabolic signatures among individuals and their role in the development of IR, we assessed systemic and tissue-specific IR and circulating immune markers, and we characterized metabolic signatures and cytokine secretion of circulating monocytes from 194 individuals with a BMI ≥25 kg/m2. Monocyte metabolic signatures were defined using extracellular acidification rates (ECARs) to estimate glycolysis and oxygen consumption rates (OCRs) for oxidative metabolism. Although monocyte metabolic signatures and function based on cytokine secretion varied greatly among study participants, they were strongly associated with each other. The ECAR-to-OCR ratio, representing the balance between glycolysis and oxidative metabolism, was negatively associated with fasting insulin levels, systemic IR, and liver-specific IR. These results indicate that monocytes from individuals with IR were relatively more dependent on oxidative metabolism, whereas monocytes from more insulin-sensitive individuals were more dependent on glycolysis. Additionally, circulating CXCL11 was negatively associated with the degree of systemic IR and positively with the ECAR-to-OCR ratio in monocytes, suggesting that individuals with high IR and a monocyte metabolic dependence on oxidative metabolism also have lower levels of circulating CXCL11. Our findings suggest that monocyte metabolism is related to obesity-associated IR progression and deepen insights into the interplay between innate immune cell metabolism and IR development in humans.

Article Highlights
Association of Water Arsenic With Incident Diabetes in U.S. Adults: The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis and the Strong Heart Study
Authors: Spaur Maya , Galvez-Fernandez Marta , Chen Qixuan , Lombard Melissa A. , Bostick Benjamin C. , Factor-Litvak Pam , Fretts Amanda M. , Shea Steven J. , Navas-Acien Ana , Nigra Anne E.
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVE

We examined the association of arsenic in federally regulated community water systems (CWS) and unregulated private wells with type 2 diabetes (T2D) incidence in the Strong Heart Family Study (SHFS), a prospective study of American Indian communities, and the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA), a prospective study of racially and ethnically diverse urban U.S. communities.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We evaluated 1,791 participants from SHFS and 5,777 participants from MESA who had water arsenic estimates available and were free of T2D at baseline (2001–2003 and 2000–2002, respectively). Participants were followed for incident T2D until 2010 (SHFS cohort) or 2019 (MESA cohort). We used Cox proportional hazards mixed-effects models to account for clustering by family and residential zip code, with adjustment for sex, baseline age, BMI, smoking status, and education.

RESULTS

T2D incidence was 24.4 cases per 1,000 person-years (mean follow-up, 5.6 years) in SHFS and 11.2 per 1,000 person-years (mean follow-up, 14.0 years) in MESA. In a meta-analysis across the SHFS and MESA cohorts, the hazard ratio (95% CI) per doubling in CWS arsenic was 1.10 (1.02, 1.18). The corresponding hazard ratio was 1.09 (0.95, 1.26) in the SHFS group and 1.10 (1.01, 1.20) in the MESA group. The corresponding hazard ratio (95% CI) for arsenic in private wells and incident T2D in SHFS was 1.05 (0.95, 1.16). We observed statistical interaction and larger magnitude hazard ratios for participants with BMI <25 kg/m2 and female participants.

CONCLUSIONS

Low to moderate water arsenic levels (<10 µg/L) were associated with T2D incidence in the SHFS and MESA cohorts.
Early-Onset Hypertension and Sex-Specific Residual Risk for Cardiovascular Disease in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Ji Hongwei , Ebinger Joseph E. , Kwan Alan C. , Reue Karen , Sullivan Jennifer C. , Shyy John , Cheng Susan
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether the sex disparities in type 2 diabetes–associated cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks may be related to early-onset hypertension that could benefit from intensive blood pressure (BP) control.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We analyzed intensive versus standard BP control in relation to incident CVD events in women and men with type 2 diabetes, based on their age of hypertension diagnosis.

RESULTS

Among 3,792 adults with type 2 diabetes (49% women), multivariable-adjusted CVD risk was increased per decade earlier age at hypertension diagnosis (hazard ratio 1.11 [1.03–1.21], P = 0.006). Excess risk associated with early-diagnosed hypertension was attenuated in the presence of intensive versus standard antihypertensive therapy in women (P = 0.036) but not men (P = 0.76).

CONCLUSIONS

Women with type 2 diabetes and early-onset hypertension may represent a higher-risk subpopulation that not only contributes to the excess in diabetes-related CVD risk for women but may benefit from intensive BP control.
Uncovering a pseudoscience: an analysis of ‘biological dentistry’ Instagram posts
Authors: Jucá Ana Maria , Santana Jorge Olivia , Moreira Yasmin Rosalin , Lotto Matheus , Sá Menezes Tamires , Cruvinel Thiago
Published: April 2024

Objective: This infodemiology study aimed to analyze characteristics of English-language Instagram posts on ‘Biological Dentistry’.
Materials and Methods: Using CrowdTangle, we analyzed 500 ‘Biological Dentistry’ posts published on Instagram from May 2017 to May 2022. Two researchers assessed each post for facticity, motivation, author’s profile, sentiment, and interaction metrics. Statistical analysis was employed to compare interaction metrics between dichotomized categories of posts’ characteristics and determine predictors of misinformation and user engagement.
Results: Over half of the posts (58.4%) were from health-related authors, and a considerable number contained misinformation (68.2%) or were financially motivated (52%). Sentiment was mostly negative or neutral (59.8%). Misinformation was associated with financial motivation (OR = 2.12) and health-related authors (OR = 5.56), while non-health-related authors’ posts associated with higher engagement (OR = 1.98). Reliable content, non-health-related authorship, and positive sentiment were associated with increased user interaction.
Conclusion: Misinformation about ‘Biological Dentistry’ on Instagram is mainly spread by financially incentivized health-related authors. Yet, non-health-related authors’ posts resonate more with audiences, highlighting a nuanced relationship between content facticity, authorship, and engagement.
Humán operátorok tevékenységének matematikai modellezése
Authors: Szabolcsi Róbert
Published: April 2024

Az „ember–gép” kapcsolat – az ember aktív részvétele úgy a nyílt, mint a zárt hatásláncú irányítási folyamatokban egyaránt – megköveteli, hogy ismerjük az ember, az operátor tevékenységének matematikai leírását. A tanulmány a humán operátorok tevékenységének matematikai leírásával, valamint e tevékenységet leíró dinamikus modellek vizsgálatával, és számítógépes analízisével foglalkozik.
A világ legütőképesebb harckocsijai 3. rész
Authors: Farkas Zoltán
Published: April 2024

A harckocsik a szárazföldi erők legfontosabb harceszközei közé tartoznak. Kiemelt szerepet játszanak a harc megvívásában, bár meghatározó jellegüket egyes szakértők napjainkban már megkérdőjelezik. Az idők során a tervezők folyamatosan tökéletesítették a harckocsit, amelynek az alkalmazók által támasztott követelménynek meg kellett felelniük. A harctéri alkalmazás során szerzett tapasztalatok tehát alapvetően határozzák meg a fejlesztések irányát, így a változtatások-finomítások szinte folyamatosak. Részben ez az oka annak, hogy az egyes típusok különböző változataival egyidőben lehet találkozni. A valós adatokhoz történő hozzáférés nem minden esetben biztosított, ezért a 11 legkorszerűbb típus bemutatása után a szerző nem állít fel sorrendet a harckocsik között. Az ismertetett típusok egymástól eltérő, egy-egy területen kiemelkedő adottságokkal rendelkeznek, de összességében – képességek tekintetében – közel azonos harcértéketképviselnek.
Az orosz légierő alkalmazása az orosz–ukrán háborúban 3. rész
Authors: Lesták Tamás
Published: April 2024

A 2022 februárjában megkezdődött – a legtöbb katonai szakértő szerint eredetileg rövid lefolyásúnak tervezett – katonai műveletekUkrajnában mindkét fél légi haderőnemének széles körű, de több esetben szokatlan felhasználását hozták. Tanulmányában a szerző röviden ismerteti a bevetett orosz repülőeszközöket, valamint alkalmazásuk módját, és az elért eredményeket (természetesen figyelembe véve az esetenként korlátozottan rendelkezésre álló információk jelentette kihívásokat).
A vezető nélküli szárazföldi járművek tesztelése Észtországban
Authors: Ocskay István
Published: April 2024

A szerző Észtországban részt vett a PESCO iMUGS munkacsoport lezárását követő UGV-teszten. A tesztelésre 5 országból 12 csapatnevezett azzal a céllal, hogy az öt, egyre nehezebben végrehajtható feladatot minél rövidebb idő alatt, a legnagyobb precizitással hajtsa végre. A világon először megrendezett különleges megmérettetésre több mint 20 országból, 100-nál is nagyobb létszámú szakértői csoportnak érkezett.
A Mészáros hadigőzös 2. rész
Authors: Sarus Ferenc
Published: April 2024

Az Országos Hadigőzös Mészáros a maga korában – az 1800-as évek első felében – forradalmasította a folyami hadviselést a Dunán.A megjelenésével lényegében megszüntette az addig még erősen középkori alapokon nyugvó folyami hadviselési formát, és megnyitotta az utat a modern folyami flottillák kialakulása felé. A szerző, tanulmányában a hadigőzös 1848–49-es szabadságharc időszakában végzett tevékenységét mutatja be, valamint betekintést nyújt a Duna korabeli hajózási viszonyaiba, és a korai gőzhajók általános hajózási tulajdonságaiba is.
On using artificial intelligence technologies in blended learning
Authors: Шихнабиева Т.Ш.
Published: April 2024

В данной статье представлены актуальные проблемы реализации смешанного обучения, пути их решения на основе использования технологий искусственного интеллекта. Также в статье освещён опыт организации смешанного обучения за рубежом и в нашей стране, представлены особенности его организации в современных условиях.

This article presents current problems of implementing blended learning and ways to solve them based on the use of artificial intelligence technologies. The article also highlights the experience of organizing blended learning abroad and in our country, and presents the features of its organization in modern conditions.
Digital Literacy in the Service of Science and Scientific Knowledge
Authors: Dašić Dejan , Ilievska Kostadinović Marija , Vlajković Minja , Pavlović Marko
Published: April 2024

The subject of this paper is the interdependence of communication and digital literacy, as original entities, and especially digital communication and science and scientific knowledge. In the present day, digital literacy is a necessary ability for scientific professionals. The concept of digital literacy is increasingly prevalent in the 21st century. Scientific research requires the capacity to efficiently use digital tools, platforms, and databases as technology continues to improve at an unparalleled rate. The capacity to get and assess data from a variety of online sources is a crucial component of digital literacy for scientific professionals. In order to encourage cooperation and creativity across scientific groups, digital literacy is vital. Moreover, scientific professionals that possess digital literacy are better equipped to disseminate their research findings to a larger audience. The essence is that the higher the level of digital literacy, the easier it is to find suitable and therefore the best forms of communication.
Constructivist Feedback-Based Assessment Method as Key for Effective Teaching and Learning: The Development and Impact on Mechanical Engineering Students’ Adaptive Capacity, Decision Making, Problem Solving and Creativity Skills
Authors: Waskito Waskito , Wulansari Rizky Ema , Rifelino Rifelino , Fortuna Aprilla , Nyamapfene Abel , Jalil Siti 'Afiat
Published: April 2024

Educators must conduct assessments in their learning; it determines students’ weaknesses in the teaching material they follow during learning. Unfortunately, the implementation of assessment by educators was not optimal, and the weakness was that the existing assessment method was only fixated on assessing students without providing feedback on the assessment. At the same time, this feedback was essential for students in learning, which can help learners assess performances that cannot be seen and felt by themselves, as well as a tool to motivate students, notification or information, and reinforcement. Therefore, this research aimed to develop a Constructivist Feedback-Based Assessment Method for learning assessment. The method used in this research was Research and Development (R&D). After development, the Constructivist Feedback-Based Assessment Method for learning assessment will be implemented to see its effect on students’ adaptive capacity, decision-making, problem-solving, and creativity skills. Independent sample t-test and linear regression analysis were used as data analysis techniques describing the impact of the assessment on those skills. The results showed that the Constructivist Feedback-Based Assessment Method has five stages: preparing the assessment material, diagnostic assessment, assessment for learning, assessment of learning, and reflection. It effectively affects students’ skills, such as adaptive capacity, decision-making, problem-solving, and creativity. It can be concluded that the Constructivist Feedback-Based Assessment Method can improve students’ adaptive capacity, decision-making, problem-solving, and creativity. Novelty in this research was the existence of constructivism integrated into feedback-based assessment, which the existing assessment has not highlighted the constructivist side of assessment.
The Significance of TNF-α, CRP, and Hematological Parameters in the Prediction of Plasmodium Falciparum Parasitemia
Authors: Ibrahim Samah Abdelrahman Hassan , Eldahab Zeinab Ibrahim Swar
Published: April 2024

Malaria remains a significant public health concern in Sudan, with Plasmodium falciparum (P. falciparum) infection having widespread indirect consequences. Effective identification of infection severity is crucial for preventing complications. This study aimed to assess the predictive value of Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha (TNF-α), C-reactive protein (CRP), and hematological parameters in P. falciparum parasitemia. The three-month cross-sectional study involved 54 P. falciparum-positive patients at Bashaire Teaching Hospital Khartoum, Sudan, along with an equal number of P. falciparum-negative individuals. Participants underwent Antigen Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT), TNFα, CRP, and Complete Blood Count (CBC) assessments. The infected group comprised 68.5% male patients, with a mean age of 22.3 years. Significant variations were observed between the infected and uninfected groups in TNFα, CRP, Total White Blood Cells (TWBCs), and neutrophil levels, with infected individuals showing higher values. Conversely, infected individuals had lower hemoglobin, Red Blood Cells (RBCs), Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH), Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC), platelets, and lymphocytes. The study revealed a noteworthy association between MCV and parasitemia, while TNFα, CRP, Hb, RBCs, MCH, and MCHC showed no significant correlation. Hematological parameters should be considered in malaria patients.
Hygienic aspects of general medicine ward operation: problems and solutions
Authors: Pivovarov YuP , Milushkina OYu , Kaminer DD , Bulatseva MB , Malikov IV
Published: April 2024

The existing problems in the field of healthcare and prevention create new challenges and difficulties in various parts of the national public health system. Today, there is an effective set of new sanitary rules and regulations important for competent organization and stable functioning of general medicine wards. In 2023, this set is SanPiN 2.1.3678-20, developed to ensure safe and effective work in medical facilities. There are special bodies tasked with controlling compliance with the standards, including Rospotrebnadzor. The COVID-19 pandemic revealed a number of problems in the organization of work of inpatient departments, which required revision of the ways of rendering medical assistance. This article considers current sanitary and hygienic aspects of organization of operations at a general medicine ward, as well as the approaches to infection prevention in the context of medical care.
Formation of Environmental Knowledge of Primary School Based on the Educational and Methodological Set “Baikal Chest”
Authors:   Pedagogical Institute of Dorji Banzarov Buryat State University, Babikov Vladimir A. , Maladaeva Olga K. ,   Pedagogical Institute of Dorji Banzarov Buryat State University, Sodnomova Nadezhda B.-C. ,   Pedagogical Institute of Dorji Banzarov Buryat State University
Published: April 2024

In this article, the authors present the experience of developing environmental knowledge of junior schoolchil-dren using the example of the educational-methodological set “Baikal Chest”. The formation of environmental knowledge is relevant because we live on the coast of one of the unique natural sites of our country – Lake Baikal, which is the deepest and oldest body of water on planet Earth. Pedagogical conditions that increase the efficiency of this process are identified and justified. According to the authors, the most significant and effective pedagogical condition ns for the formation of environmental knowledge in primary schoolchildren are the use of interactive technologies, such as creative tasks, project activities, ICT-technologies, and problem situations. The article presents examples of tasks from the “Baikal Chest” educational complex, which, from the authors’ point of view, most effectively demonstrate the implementation of the ethno-regional component in the educa-tional process of elementary school, as well as form ecological knowledge of younger schoolchildren.
De Sepulchrorum Titulis
Authors: Sanches Michael , Martins Paulo
Published: April 2024

The present paper aims to comment on the perspective presented by the Italian humanist Leon Battista Alberti regarding epigram, inscription, and epitaph in Chapter IV of Book VIII of the architectural treatise De Re Ædificatoria. This study begins with Alberti’s viewpoint, surveying, through intertextuality, the potential sources, and epigrammatic traditions with which the author engages in this passage, providing a concise overview of the genre’s history, tracing its earliest origins from ancient Greece, its practice in Rome, and its revival by Renaissance humanists. This historical context will facilitate a more precise examination of whether Alberti incorporates elements from a singular tradition or draws from multiple ones. Finally, we will seek to gather here both what Alberti as well as the modern literary criticism, although lacking an explicit definition, understand by epitaph.
Redesign roadmap to support driving awareness at level railway crossings
Authors: Sugiono Sugiono , Wiryawan Evan , Rahayudi Bayu , Fanani Angga Akbar , Fahreza Maulana Ahmad , Firmansyah Addis Rheza , Sucipto Wahono Hadi , Marom Fa'iqul
Published: April 2024

The number of accidents at level railway crossings, especially crossings without gate barriers/attendants, is still very high due to technical problems, driving culture, and human error. The aim of this research is to provide road maps application based on ergonomic visual displays design that can increase awareness level for drivers before crossing railway crossings. The double awareness driving (DAD) map information system was built based on the waterfall method, which has 4 steps: defining requirements, system and software design, unit testing, and implementation. User needs to include origin-destination location, geolocation, distance & travel time, directions, crossing information, and crossing notifications. The DAD map application was tested using a usability test to determine the ease of using the application used the System Usability Scale (SUS) questionnaire and an Electroencephalogram (EEG) test to determine the increase in concentration in drivers before and immediately crossing a railway crossing. Periodically, the application provides information on the driving zone being passed; green zone for driving distances > 500 m to the crossing, the yellow zone for distances 500m to 100m, and the red zone for distances < 100 m. The DAD map also provides information on the position and speed of the nearest train that will cross the railway crossing. The usability test for 10 respondents giving SUS score = 97.5 (satisfaction category) with a time-based efficiency value = 0.29 goals/s, error rate = 0%, and a success rate of 93.33%. The cognitive ergonomic testing via Electroencephalogram (EEG) produced a focus level of 21.66%. Based on the results of DAD map testing can be implemented to improve the safety of level railroad crossings in an effort to reduce the number of driving accidents.
Clean and Green Bioconversion – A Comprehensive Review on Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) Larvae for Converting Organic Wastes to Quality Products
Authors: Iqbal Waqar , Elahi Usman , Zhang Hai-jun , Ahmad Sohail , Usman Muhammad , Yaqoob Muhammad Umar
Published: April 2024

Food security remains a pressing global concern, exacerbated by population growth, diminishing agricultural lands, and climate uncertainties. As the demand for high-quality protein sources like eggs, meat, and milk escalates, conventional feed ingredients face challenges in meeting the burgeoning needs of livestock production. The projected increase in poultry and pig consumption further strains the availability of protein-rich feed sources, necessitating sustainable alternatives. Insects, notably black soldier fly larvae (BSFL), offer numerous advantages, including efficiently converting organic substrates into high-quality protein, fat, minerals, and vitamins. Their rapid reproduction, minimal environmental footprint, and ability to thrive on various organic materials make them an attractive protein source. However, consumer acceptance remains a hurdle, hindering their direct consumption despite their nutritional value. Incorporating BSFL into animal diets, especially poultry and swine, demonstrates promising results regarding growth and production. This review comprehensively overviews BSFL production systems, processing techniques, and nutritional profiles. Various factors influencing BSFL growth and feed quality are discussed, highlighting the importance of optimizing breeding systems and feed formulations. Processing methods are elucidated to ensure the safety and quality of BSFL-based products. Nutritional analysis reveals BSFL as a rich source of essential amino acids, fatty acids, and minerals, making them suitable replacements for soybean meal and fish meal. Despite the economic and environmental benefits of BSFL utilization, challenges persist, including regulatory issues, consumer perceptions, and production scalability. Standardized production protocols and legislative frameworks are needed to facilitate the widespread adoption of BSFL in animal feed industries. In conclusion, integrating BSFL into animal diets presents a promising solution to address protein shortages in livestock production while promoting sustainable resource utilization.
The Effect of Fermented Wheat Germ Extract on Broiler Chicks’ Growth Performance, Immunological Status, and Carcass Characteristics
Authors: Elghafar Rasha Abd , Abaza Mohamed , Ellakany Hany F. , Abd El-Hady Ahmed M. , El-Sabrout Karim
Published: April 2024

Many studies have mentioned the advantages of adding wheat germ to chicken diets, but few were interested in studying the effect of the fermentation process on this addition. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of adding fermented wheat germ extract (FWGE) and immunostimulant (IS) to the broiler diet and water, respectively, on growth performance, hematological and blood biochemical parameters, immune status, and carcass characteristics. A total of 180 one-day-old broiler chicks (Cobb 500) were randomly and equally assigned into four treatment groups of 5 replicates (9 chicks/replicate) each. The first group (G1) served as a control group with a basal diet and normal drinking water, while the second (G2) and the third (G3) groups were treated with a basal diet supplemented with 0.1 and 0.2% of FWGE, respectively. The fourth group (G4) was treated with one level of immunostimulant (ORGA IMMU®, 0.2% in drinking water) and served as a positive control. The experiment lasted 35 days. According to the results, adding 0.2% FWGE to the broiler diet (G3) improved (P≤0.05) feed conversion ratio and increased (P≤0.05) live body weight and body weight gain compared to the control group (G1). The G3 also showed improvements (P≤0.05) in red blood cells (RBCs), hemoglobin concentration (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), and white blood cell (WBC) counts. Blood biochemical parameters, such as total protein, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), were positively affected (P≤0.05) by FWGE and immunostimulant treatments. Hemagglutination inhibition (HI) titers for Newcastle disease and avian influenza viruses, phagocytic activity (PA), phagocytic index (PI), and lysozyme activity (LA) were significantly (P≤0.05) improved by FWGE and immunostimulant treatments. Furthermore, carcass traits, such as carcass weight and dressing percentage, were improved (P≤0.05) by adding FWGE and immunostimulant treatments. The inclusion of FWGE in the broiler chicken diet by 0.2% had a considerably positive impact on the birds’ growth performance, health, and carcass quality.
The effect of post-ultraviolet light curing on the accuracy of direct-printed aligners: an in vitro study
Authors: Kanase Anup , Misra Vaibhav , Sobti Roohi
Published: April 2024

Background/Objectives

Direct-printed aligners have proven to be more cost effective and accurate. However, the post-curing process might affect their dimensional accuracy, leading to unwanted tooth movement. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of different post-curing durations on the location specific accuracy of direct-printed aligners.

Method

A stereolithography printer was used to produce 30 aligners using Dental LT V2 resin. The aligners were randomly assigned into 3 groups (n = 10 each) according to different post-ultraviolet light-curing durations: 0 min (No cure); 40 min or 60 min. The aligners in each group were then scanned and superimposed on certain landmarks to check for location specific deviations using a best fit algorithm. Discrepancies were assessed at 10 different points by one examiner at two different time intervals (0.25 mm was the clinically acceptable threshold limit). One way ANOVA and repeated measures ANOVA were applied for statistical analysis.

Results

Deviations were maximum in the ‘No cure’ group but were statistically insignificant (p-value > 0.05). The deviation values in the ‘40 and 60 min cure’ groups were comparable and statistically significant (p-value < 0.05), with maximum deviation noted in the anterior region. All values in the ‘40 and 60 min cure’ groups were within the clinically acceptable range.

Conclusion

Post-print ultraviolet light curing is a crucial step to ensure the rigidity of the direct-printed aligner. However, increasing the duration of light curing has little effect on aligner accuracy.
Effect of heat acclimation on thermotolerance of in vitro strawberry plantlets
Authors: Seymour Zevon Julio , Mercedes Juan Francisco , Fang Jong-Yi
Published: April 2024

Strawberry production is facing a serious decline with the increase in global temperature as a result of climate change. Improving the heat tolerance is imperative for the strawberry plants to remain productive under high temperature conditions. The present work aimed to study the effect of heat acclimation on the thermotolerance of strawberry plants subjected to severe heat stress. Tissue cultured Fragaria ‘Taoyuan No. 1’ plantlets were subjected to four heat-acclimation treatments with gradual increase of temperatures from 30°C to 42°C for 1.25 hr to 10 hr before exposing them to the lethal temperature of 48°C for 4 hr. Survival, new leaf emergence and root growth, electrolyte leakage, chlorophyll and proline contents, as well as antioxidant enzyme activities were compared between the control, acclimated and non-acclimated plantlets. Results indicated that heat acclimation was required for the strawberry plantlets to survive under lethal temperature conditions. The acclimated plantlets registered a lower degree of electrolyte leakage and chlorophyll degradation, and a higher proline content compared to the non-acclimated plantlets. The activities of the antioxidant enzymes increased with the elevation of acclimation temperature and peaked at 42°C except for ascorbate peroxidase (APX) whose activity peaked at 39°C. Higher activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), APX, glutathione reductase (GR), catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POD) were observed in the acclimated plantlets compared to the non-acclimated plantlets. This study demonstrates that heat acclimation improved the thermotolerance of in vitro strawberry plantlets by reducing electrolyte leakage and chlorophyll degradation, as well as by enhancing proline content and antioxidant enzyme activities under severe heat stress.