bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formulation and Evaluation of Probiotic starter culture: Impact on Ethiopian cottage cheese “Ayib” Safety, Stability, Sensory acceptability and Antioxidant potential
Authors: . Zerihun Asefa , . Anteneh Tesfaye , . Asnake Desalegn , . Tadesse Daba , . Tsion Haile
Published: December 2024

Background
Ayibis a traditionally processed dairy product in Ethiopia that demonstrates significant variability in shelf life, sensory attributes, and safety, primarily own to the spontaneous fermentation of milk and differing household practices. This study aimed to develop mixed probiotic starter cultures from top seven previously isolated lactic acid bacteria to achieve a synergistic effect on consistent sensory qualities, enhanced safety, extended storage stability, and antioxidant potential of Ayib.
Methods
Nine mixed starter cultures were formulated using seven lactic acid strains that are known for their superior fermentation and probiotic capabilities. Pasteurized milk was inoculated with 5% of each starter culture and incubated at 37 ± 2 °C for 8 h. Fermented milk was then defatted by shaking at 100 rpm for 1 h. Following fat removal, buttermilk was heated to 50-60 °C for 40-50 minutes to facilitate curd (Ayib) formation. After cooling, the curd was separated from whey. A 200-g portion of the curd was wrapped in sterile cheesecloth and immersed in pasteurized whey inoculated with 8 log CFU/mL of the formulated starter cultures for 30 min before being re-drained for 1 h.
Results
The physicochemical properties, consumer acceptability, and storage stability of the resulting products were evaluated, revealing total solids ranging from 20.67 % to 22.89 %, pH values between 3.89 and 4.49, and titratable acidity ranging from 0.63 % to 0.93 %. Overall sensory acceptability, measured on a five-point hedonic scale, varied from 3.31 for Ayibtreated with formula nine to 4.03 for Ayibtreated with formula two. Notably, the storage stability of the treated Ayib was improved by over 2 – 9 times compared to that of the control sample. Antioxidant testing revealed that the lactic acid bacteria strain NZ-44 had the highest antioxidant potential (57.77 %), while the formulated mixtures, particularly formula six, exhibited synergistically enhanced antioxidant activity (99.27 %).
Conclusions
These findings suggest that lactic acid bacteria strains can improve the nutritional value, safety, and storage stability of fermented dairy products, such as Ayib, with potential applications in both the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Insights from draft genomes of Heterodera species isolated from field soil samples
Authors: Jain Akshita , Li Tongda , Huston Daniel C. , Kaur Jatinder , Trollip Conrad , Wainer John , Hodda Mike , Linsell Katherine , Riley Ian T. , Toktay Halil , Olowu Eniola Ajibola , Edwards Jacqueline , Rodoni Brendan , Sawbridge Timothy
Published: December 2024

Background
The nematode phylum includes many species key to soil food webs with trophic behaviours extending from feeding on microbes to macrofauna and plant roots. Among these, the plant parasitic cyst nematodes retain their eggs in protective cysts prolonging their survival under harsh conditions. These nematodes, including those from the genus Heterodera, cause significant economic losses in agricultural systems. Understanding of nematode diversity and ecology has expanded through application of genomic research, however, for Heterodera species there are very few available whole genome sequences. Sequencing and assembling Heterodera genomes is challenging due to various technical limitations imposed by the biology of Heterodera. Overcoming these limitations is essential for comprehensive insights into Heteroderaparasitic interactions with plants, population studies, and for Australian biosecurity implications.
Results
We hereby present draft genomes of six species of which Heterodera australis, H. humuli,
H. mani and H. trifolii are presently recorded in Australia and two species, H. avenae and
H. filipjevi, currently absent from Australia. The draft genomes were sequenced from genomic DNA isolated from 50 cysts each using an Illumina NovaSeq short read sequencing platform. The data revealed disparity in sequencing yield between species. What was previously identified as H. avenae in Australia using morphological traits is now confirmed as H. australis and may have consequences for wheat breeding programs in Australia that are breeding for resistance to H. avenae. Genomic comparisons within the Avenae species group revealed orthologous gene clusters within the species, emphasising the shared and unique features of the group. The data also revealed the presence of a Wolbachia species, a putative bacterial endosymbiont from Heterodera humuli sequencing data.
Conclusion
Genomic research holds immense significance for agriculture, for understanding pest species diversity and the development of effective management strategies. This study provides insight into Heterodera, cyst nematode genomics and the associated symbionts and this work will serve as a baseline for further genomic analyses in this economically important nematode group.
Aprendizaje de las Tecnologías de la Información y la Comunicación en el envejecimiento activo: un estudio cualitativo en Buenos Aires
Authors: Hernández-Silvera Dides-Iliana , Pécora Alejandra-Noelia , Núñez Florencia-Julia
Published: December 2024

El objetivo de esta investigación fue explorar el aprendizaje de las Tecnologías de la Información y la Comunicación (TIC), específicamente el uso de teléfonos móviles, en adultos mayores comprometidos con el envejecimiento activo. Se reconoce que el aprendizaje es un proceso continuo a lo largo de la vida, mediante el cual se integran nuevos conocimientos a esquemas previos, permitiendo la construcción de nuevos saberes. Este estudio se desarrolló a través de un enfoque cualitativo utilizando el método comparativo constante para el análisis de datos, bajo el diseño de teoría fundamentada. Se llevaron a cabo entrevistas semidirigidas con una muestra teórica de 27 adultos mayores (edades entre 60 y 95 años) participantes en talleres sobre el uso de TICs en la Asociación de Jubilados y Pensionados, un club y un taller protegido en AMBA, Buenos Aires. Los resultados de la investigación sugieren que el aprendizaje de la tecnología tiene un impacto significativo en el envejecimiento activo de los adultos mayores, facilitando su integración en la sociedad digital contemporánea. Además, se exploran las tecnologías de la R-elación, un concepto que integra el aspecto relacional con la tecnología, y el enfoque de la Educomunicación a través de la intervención educativa en los medios de comunicación.
The relationship between self-efficacy, attitudes, and business students' quantitative skills performance: A case for including quantitative methods in the BSBA curriculum
Authors:   College of Management and Business Technology, Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology, Cabanatuan City, Philippines, Domingo Jaynelle G. , Mina Jennilyn C. ,   College of Management and Business Technology, Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology, Cabanatuan City, Philippines, Campos Romeo ,   College of Management and Business Technology, Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology, Cabanatuan City, Philippines
Published: December 2024

Developing strong quantitative skills is crucial for the career success of college business students. However, there is limited understanding of the quantitative abilities, self-confidence, and attitudes of Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) students. This descriptive-correlational study examines these aspects in fourth-year BSBA students, with 231 participants selected through purposive sampling. The research framework is based on the Theory of Reasoned Action/Planned Behavior and Social Cognitive Theory. Data was collected using a researcher-designed questionnaire, validated by experts, that measured quantitative skills, self-efficacy, and attitudes. Findings show that while students perform well in certain areas like numeracy and market return analysis, they have weaknesses in statistical analysis, quantitative reasoning, and financial data analysis. Their self-confidence in mathematical analysis is moderate but needs improvement. Despite this, students generally have a positive outlook on quantitative courses. The correlation analysis reveals a significant positive relationship between their attitudes toward quantitative courses and their performance in quantitative skills. It is recommended that the BSBA curriculum be revised by including a dedicated Quantitative Methods Course to address skill gaps and boost students' self-confidence and attitudes, better equipping them for the evolving business world.
Organizational and technological profile of management of innovative development of enterprises: concept, content and development
Authors: Horoshilov D. N.
Published: December 2024

Relevance. The article considers the concept and content of the organizational and technological profile of the enterprise, profile components are defined and their essential characteristics are given. The concept of profiling is developed, resource-based approach and guiding principles, methods and methods of describing the processes of management of the innovative development of the enterprise. Profile content disclosed on the basis of general, private and special principles, as well as the features of monitoring the organizational and technological management. The development of the organizational and technological profile will allow the selection and implementation of the current strategy, corresponding to the priorities of innovative activity of the enterprise and its organizational and technological potential.

The purpose is expansion of scientific and methodological base of management of innovative activity of enterprises on the basis of development of theoretical bases of formation of organizational and technological profile of management of innovative development and complex description of its components.

Objectives: to bring the concept and to reveal the content of organizational and technological profile of management of innovative development of the enterprise; highlight the components of the profile and give their detailed characteristics; define the principles, methods and features of creating an organizational and technological profile and increasing the strategic component of the innovative development of the enterprise.

Methodology. The author's concept of formation of organizational and technological profile of management of innovative development of the enterprise is developed, which determines the vectors of its innovative development based on the study of the components of the profile.

Results: terminology of formation of organizational and technological profile of management of innovative development of the enterprise is defined; its seven components are highlighted and their place and role are determined, the principles of building the profile and the features of its monitoring are highlighted for choosing the innovative strategy of the enterprise.

Conclusion. Formation of organizational and technological profile of management of innovative development of the enterprise and determination of content characteristics of its components will allow the enterprise to carry out balanced innovation policy for ensuring organizational and technological stability.
The channels of an impact of a state monetary policy on the regional economy
Authors: Khudoborodov S. M. , Radyukova Ya. Yu.
Published: December 2024

Relevance. The unified state monetary policy is an important component of the state's economic policy and is aimed at achieving the long-term goal of economic development through ensuring price and financial stability. At the same time, an important limitation of monetary regulation is the use of money market management tools that affect the entire economy as a whole. As a result, monetary regulation, while effective at the level of the entire monetary system, may be suboptimal in certain regions. This problem can be considered most acutely in large federal states and supranational associations with territorial and economic diversity, for example, in the eurozone, the United States and Russia.The purpose is to identify channels for transmitting the effect of the use of monetary policy instruments on regional economic development in conditions of spatial heterogeneity. Objectives: to illustrate the statistical heterogeneity of spatial development, to determine the regional component of the main channels of the transmission mechanism of monetary policy; to consider possible distorting effects associated with interregional heterogeneity.Methodology. In this study, the following methods were used: statistical methods, the method of analyzing the sources of the problem under study, the comparative method.Results. The article substantiates the importance of considering spatial heterogeneity in the planning and implementation of monetary policy in Russia. Calculations of the regional heterogeneity of the main economic indicators have been carried out. The channels of transmission of interbank market rates to the regional level are considered and various views on the spatial and sectoral heterogeneity of the effects are presented.Conclusions. Based on the analysis of the economy's response to PREP shocks, general and economic factors that influence the response of regional systems when using PREP tools have been identified. It is concluded that it is necessary to take into account regional heterogeneity when conducting PREP, as well as to develop regional financial markets. The results obtained can be used for mathematical modeling purposes in further studies of the heterogeneity of the effect of monetary policy in the regions.
A stadium approach to managing the creation and development of external business partnerships
Authors: Androsova I. V.
Published: December 2024

Relevance. In modern economic conditions, partnerships cover a wide range of issues: from the motives for creating to evaluating the results of cooperation. To understand the specifics of managing external business partnerships, it is necessary to systematize the main stages of their creation and development.The purpose of writing this article is to apply a stadium approach to managing partnerships to identify promising areas for their development.Objectives: Tasks: to complete the list of stages (highlighted and proposed earlier by other researchers) of the creation and development of external partnerships in business; to give a detailed description of each of the highlighted stages; to identify the key characteristics of external partnerships between organizations at various stages of formation and development.Methodology. When writing this article, a set of general scientific methods of cognition was used: observation, comparison, description, content analysis.Results. The proposed study presents the results of a discussion among some foreign and domestic scientists considering the categorical apparatus of partnerships between organizations. In the article, the author has supplemented the list of stages of partnerships (origin, development and maturity), identified and proposed earlier by other researchers, with the final stage. The article presents a sequence of stages of external partnerships with an appropriate characteristic. Attention is paid to the description of partnership forms (clusters, consortia, technoparks, strategic alliances) in the event of a possible transition of business relations (at the final stage) to a new level characterized by a long duration of cooperation.Conclusions. The key characteristics of each stage of partnership relations are systematized, which will allow in the future to carry out managerial influences on the formation and development of business interaction.
Healthcare Provider Needs for a Shared Decision Aid Navigator System (SEDANS): A Qualitative Study (Preprint)
Authors: Morse Brad , Reale Carrie , Nguyen An T , Latella Erin , Bauguess Hannah , Anders Shilo , Roberts Pamela , SooHoo Spencer L , El-Kareh Robert , Soares Andrey , Schilling Lisa
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Patient decision aid (PDAs) are important tools that support informed decision-making by the patient based on evidence-based treatment options. PDAs can increase patient knowledge, reduce decisional regret, and engage the provider and patient in meaningful dialog. Despite proven effectiveness in enhancing patient-centered care and improve outcomes, a gap remains of implementing PDAs in routine clinical workflows.

OBJECTIVE

This qualitative study produced insight into the needs and preferences of health care providers (HCP) using a clinician-facing navigator app that surfaces relevant PDA tools for shared decision making. The Navigator app is a component of the Shared Decision Aid Navigator System (SEDANS) that is embedded in the electronic health record (EHR).

METHODS

We conducted 13 semi-structured interviews with HCPs who were recruited from four academic medical centers. Interviews included a demonstration of the SEDANS Navigator app. Questions focused on HCP needs and requirements, the clinician context of use, and affordances and barriers to using the system. Themes were identified through summative content analysis, consensus coding, and data reduction.

RESULTS

We identified three themes: (1) Streamlined functionality may simplify workflow and decrease the burden of shared decision-making, (2) Effective use requires HCP to possess appropriate competencies to use both the Navigator and relevant PDAs, and (3) HCP trust in the Navigator is required to subsequently build patient trust in PDAs. HCPs unanimously shared that SEDANS Navigator should be integrated into the existing workflow. To accomplish this clear priority, clinicians stated that they needed the requisite competencies to successfully use the tool and build trust both with the tool itself and with the patients who would potentially benefit from the use of PDAs and the shared decision-making interaction.

CONCLUSIONS

Tools designed and developed to support PDA use must be integrated into the existing workflow efficiently to create an opportunity for uptake of the technology by busy HCPs. If the SEDANS Navigator can operationalize the cumbersome process of documenting the use of PDAs, more HCPs may potentially use PDAs with their patients, given the right context and appropriate PDA.
Optimization of surgical methods for the treatment of gynecomastia
Authors: Ihnatieva A.G. , Yurchyshyn S.M.
Published: December 2024

Background. Gynecomastia has a negative impact on the psychological state of men. Optimisation of surgical treatment for gynecomastia, aimed at minimising unsatisfactory cosmetic consequences of operation, should significantly improve the quality of life of patients. The purpose of the study: to improve the surgical technique of treatment for gynecomastia by optimising the area of transdermal intervention with an emphasis on minimising postoperative complications and scars. Materials and methods. A total of 132 patients (mean age 31.5 ± 2.8 years, body mass index 25.2 ± 3.4, I–II ASA) were operated for gynecomastia. Gynecomastectomy (GME) was performed in patients who were randomly divided into two groups: control (C) and main (M). Patients in group C (n = 80) underwent standard GME with 10–15-mm crescentic incisions along the nipple. Patients of group M (n = 52) were operated with vertical incisions on the nipple-areolar complex at the conditional 12th and 6th hours with a length of 5–7 mm. Statistical analysis of the study results was performed according to the criteria of Pearson, Fisher and Kruskal-Wallis (Stata 12.1 package). After 3 months, the patients were questioned. The following method was used to assess surgical outcomes: 1 point — dissatisfied, 2 points — relatively satisfied, 3 points — satisfied. Results. Patients in group M had significantly fewer complications and a shorter hospital stay by 2 days (p < 0.001). 94.2 % of patients in group M at follow-up survey reported satisfaction with the results of GME in contrast to group C, where 38 % of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the consequences of GME. The vertical incision technique showed a better cosmetic effect — a significant decrease by 13.4 times (p < 0.001) in the scar area (174.0 ± 12.0 mm2 vs. 13.0 ± 2.0 mm2). Conclusions. The use of the proposed GME demonstrated better cosmetic efficacy, namely a 13.4-fold (p < 0.001) reduction in scar area to 13.0 ± 2.0 mm2 compared with the standard GME (174.0 ± 12.0 mm2). In addition, GME patients with vertical incisions had a reduction in the length of hospital stay by 2 days (p < 0.001). The method of optimised GME demonstrated a 1.8-fold higher level of patient satisfaction with the results of the operation according to a survey conducted 3 months after GME. The use of compression garments after surgery was mandatory, which contributed to better recovery.
Percepción de la ciberseguridad entre estudiantes universitarios en entornos digitales: Un estudio en la Facultad de Informática Mazatlán
Authors: López López Héctor Luis , Quirino Rodríguez Lucio Guadalupe , Carrasco Valenzuela Asia Cecilia
Published: December 2024

El presente estudio, realizado en la Facultad de Informática Mazatlán, analiza cómo los estudiantes perciben la seguridad en línea y las prácticas que emplean para proteger sus datos personales en la modalidad virtual. A través de una encuesta a estudiantes, se investigaron aspectos como la percepción sobre ciberseguridad y las experiencias personales con dichos ataques. Los resultados muestran que una parte significativa de los estudiantes está preocupada por la seguridad de sus datos, careciendo muchos de ellos de los conocimientos necesarios para identificar y prevenir potenciales amenazas. Un hallazgo relevante es que sólo una minoría ha sido víctima de algún ciberataque, pero la mayoría de los encuestados tiene una percepción moderada de la seguridad en los entornos digitales, lo que sugiere que, si bien no se sienten completamente desprotegidos, existe una falta de confianza en las medidas de seguridad actuales. El estudio concluye que es esencial integrar asignaturas específicas sobre ciberseguridad en los programas académicos para capacitar a los estudiantes en la identificación de riesgos y en la adopción de prácticas de seguridad adecuadas.
Marco de trabajo tecnológico y computacional para la modelación de Sistemas Complejos Adaptativos
Authors: Gordillo Ruiz José Luis , Stephens Christopher Rhodes
Published: December 2024

Todos los grandes problemas, tanto nacionales como internacionales, tales como el cambio climático, las enfermedades emergentes, las enfermedades crónico-degenerativas, la pérdida de biodiversidad y muchos más, son reconocidos universalmente como problemas “complejos”. Aunque no hay un consenso sobre la definición de un Sistema Complejo Adaptativo, su multifactorialidad/multicausalidad es un factor crucial que dificulta enormemente su comprensión y predicción. En este artículo, analizamos los retos informáticos, tecnológicos, científicos y políticos que representan, presentando un marco tecnológico y computacional para su modelado en el contexto de algunas de las experiencias generadas en el desarrollo de las plataformas para el Laboratorio para la Simulación de Sistemas Complejos Adaptativos —CHILAM— del Centro de Ciencias de la Complejidad.
Sobre Marta María Manchado López, ed., Convivencia y conflicto en la frontera oriental de la Monarquía hispánica. Filipinas (siglos XVI-XVIII)
Authors: Farfán Osorio Pamela
Published: December 2024

Reseña crítica de la obra colectiva coordinada por Marta Ma. Manchado López que lleva por título Convivencia y conflicto en la frontera oriental de la Monarquía hispánica. Filipinas (siglos XVI-XVIII), que contó con la participación de especialistas de la historia de las Filipinas. Este libro tiene siete artículos que estudian temas pocos conocidos de la historia de la ínsula asiática.
Sobre Ysla Campbell, Varia documenta. Para la historia de la cultura letrada en la Nueva Vizcaya
Authors: Atilano Gutiérrez José Enrique
Published: December 2024

Reseña sobre el libro Varia documenta. Para la historia de la cultura letrada en la Nueva Vizcaya (Madrid: Iberoamericana-Vervuert, 2023). 189 pp.
La visión mestiza novohispana del siglo XVI sobre el sacrificio humano indígena
Authors: Popescu Liviu
Published: December 2024

El artículo estudia el imaginario del sacrificio indígena en la visión mestiza del siglo XVI. Como fuentes primarias he utilizado las tres narrativas mestizas novohispanas del mismo periodo: Diego Muñoz Camargo, Juan Bautista Pomar y Fernando de Alva Ixtlilxóchitl. A través de los análisis hermenéutico y cuantitativo se evidencia el enfoque traductor de la visión mestiza (por sus tres representantes) mediante la cultura cristiana y la tendencia de resaltar los particularismos étnicos y el multiculturalismo. Por otro lado, se destaca la oscilación de la visión en función de intereses sociales, económicos y étnicos.
Sobre David Eduardo Tavárez, Rethinking Zapotec Time. Cosmology, Ritual, and Resistance in Colonial Mexico
Authors: Calvo Thomas
Published: December 2024

Reseña del libro de David Eduardo Tavárez, Rethinking Zapotec Time. Cosmology, Ritual, and Resistance in Colonial Mexico (Austin: University of Texas Press, 2022). 448 pp.
Designing educational resources of the 21st-century skills instructional models and socio-scientific issues integration
Authors: Adlini Miza Nina , Jayanti Ummi Nur Afinni Dwi , Wiryawan Yassir Ni’ma Rangga
Published: December 2024

This research addresses the limited availability of reference books that comprehensively explain the syntax of the 21st-century learning and socio-scientific issues. It focuses on designing and developing educational resources that integrate the 21st-century skills instructional models with socio-scientific issues, utilizing the 4D (Define, Design, Develop, Disseminate) development model by Thiagarajan (1974). Conducted from March to September 2024 at an Islamic public university in Medan, Sumatera Utara, the subjects were Biology Education students currently enrolled in or who had completed the Biology Learning Strategies course. Data collection involved questionnaires and documentation studies. Initial analysis indicated that students struggled to understand the steps and processes of instructional models supporting the 21st-century skills and socio-scientific issues. To address these challenges, a comprehensive instructional book was developed, emphasizing the 21st-century skills, learning syntax, and socio-scientific issue integration. The book received validation from experts, including a biology learning strategies expert (98.3%), a 21st-century skills expert (100%), and a socio-scientific issues expert (91.7%), all within the highly valid category. It was also deemed highly practical by users, namely students (94.3%) and lecturers (93.7%). The findings underscore the necessity of enhancing learning resources in the course, highlighting the significance of socio-scientific issues in fostering 21st-century skills. This study contributes to advancing learning strategies and offers valuable resources for educators and students preparing for the demands of the 21st-century.
The impact of foreign investment on strengthening the security of the national economy of Ukraine and investment guidelines for Ukrainian-Polish cooperation
Authors: Savitska Svitlana , Zabolotnyy Serhiy
Published: December 2024

The article examines the theoretical foundations of the category of foreign direct investment and identifies their characteristic features. The importance of foreign investment is substantiated, and both positive and negative consequences of FDI for the country’s economy are identified. The research investigates the dynamics of the inflow and the geographical structure of foreign direct investment by country of receipt of investment, presents the largest investor countries and the most attractive sectors for investment in the Ukrainian economy, and evaluates the degree of deterioration in the investment attractiveness of the national economy. The features of Ukrainian-Polish investment cooperation are studied, and priority directions for developing investment activity are discussed.
Rola i zróżnicowanie postów facebookowych w komunikacji marketingowej biur podróży
Authors: Strzębicki Dariusz
Published: December 2024

Celem artykułu było określenie roli i znaczenia postów zamieszczanych na portalu Facebook jako narzędzia komunikacji marketingowej biur podróży. W artykule podjęto również próbę określenia zróżnicowania publikowanych postów pod względem tematycznym i formy przekazu. W badaniu użyto metody content analysis. Wyodrębniono pięć odrębnych grup postów: promocyjne, relacjonujące, angażujące, edukujące, badań. Wyniki badań wskazują na duży potencjał zamieszczania postów promujących oferty biur podróży oraz takich, których zadaniem jest angażowanie konsumentów poprzez inne treści niż promocyjne.
The Relevance of Islamic Values in the Martabat Tujuh Constitution: A Study of the Code of Ethics and Conduct for Civil Servants
Authors: Suwandi Suwandi , Halilul Khairi  , M. Nopri Ramadani Utama Buhri  , Sharifah Nursyahidah Syed Annuar
Published: December 2024

This study examines the cultural concepts within the Martabat Tujuh Constitution of the Buton Sultanate in conjunction with Islamic principles and their relevance to government administration. The objective is to assess the relevance of Islamic valuesfor local government administration, particularly the code of ethics and conduct for civil servants. The literature review analyzes the revelant textual sources to identify the Islamic values embedded in the Martabat Tujuh Constitution and their application in governance. The study found that the Islamic values reflected in the Martabat Tujuh Constitution are relevant to the code of ethics and conduct for civil servants in government administration. The implementation of these Islamic values can help prevent corruption and other types of ethical miscoduct in government. By integrating the Islamic values of the Martabat Tujuh Constitution civil servants can implement a well-rounded code of ethics and conduct and support ethical governance
A Study of the Impact of Online Feedback on Moroccan EFL University Students’ Listening Proficiency
Authors: Baghit Redouan , Laaboudi Daouia , Erguig Reddad
Published: December 2024

Although technology has been widely integrated into language teaching, research on its impact on EFL students’ listening proficiency and subskills still needs to be explored. This study aims to address this gap, stressing the role of online feedback in language acquisition. The significance of this study is manifested in the potential application of online feedback in the EFL arena and other related learning settings worldwide. This quasi-experimental study investigates how online feedback influences the listening subskills of engineering students at the National School of Applied Sciences (ENSA) in Berchid, Morocco. The study addressed the following question: To what extent does online feedback affect students’ overall listening proficiency? Through convenience sampling, 60 second-year students were singled out: 30 were assigned to the experimental group and 30 to the control group. Using the pretest-posttest design, the current study aimed to determine whether students improved their listening proficiency and subskills using the ProProfs platform, which gave detailed and interactive feedback. Independent samples t-tests showed significant improvements for the experimental group in listening for gist, specific information, and filtering information, although not in inferring implicit information. The findings of the current study indicated that technology-enhanced feedback could be a successful way of improving EFL students’ listening proficiency and subskills, and hence, it called for further integration into tertiary language education.
Written Assignments and Generative Artificial Intelligence: Challenges and Considerations for English Education Major Students at A’Sharqiyah University, Oman
Authors: Shafiqa Anwar Fakir , Marnaoui Safa , Ahmed Al Anqodi Hamed
Published: December 2024

This study aims to provide insight into the perceptions of English Education major students regarding the utilization of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) in the completion of written assignments. This research employed both quantitative and descriptive qualitative designs. Quantitative data were obtained from closed-ended questionnaire items administered to 58 English Education major students, while qualitative data were collected from open-ended questionnaire questions. The results revealed that most students utilized GAI for written assignments; however, they did not consider it acceptable to rely on GAI entirely. The majority did not support banning GAI in educational contexts. The most frequent uses of GAI were to check grammar, improve vocabulary, and generate ideas. Additionally, almost half of the participants believed that GAI hindered the development of their thinking and writing skills. The majority, however, agreed that GAI assisted their learning. Students’ opinions were equally divided on whether using GAI improved their grades or not. Based on these findings, suggestions and recommendations are provided.
EFL Students’ Perception and Attitude towards the Use of ChatGPT to Promote English Speaking Skills in the Saudi Context
Authors: Salem Alsalem Mashael
Published: December 2024

This study aims to investigate English as a Foreign Language students’ perceptions and attitudes towards using ChatGPT to enhance their English-speaking skills in English as a foreign language classroom. The study is significant as it contributes to the body of research on Artificial Intelligence in teaching and learning in English as a foreign language context in general and Saudi higher educational institutions in particular. 74 students from three public universities in Saudi Arabia participated by completing a five-point Likert scale questionnaire after carrying out oral tasks for six weeks using ChatGPT. The purpose of students’ responses is to answer the research questions: What are students’ perceptions and attitudes towards the use of ChatGPT to promote their English speaking skills? The Participants in the study were all female students majoring in English language in their departments at their educational facilities. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the questionnaire data. Results generally indicated a high-level of perception and a positive attitude toward using ChatGPT in English-speaking classes. The findings of this study will hopefully further the understanding of students’ beliefs about ChatGPT and how this technology can be best employed for the advancement of English learning and teaching
The Impact of Teacher-generated Quizzes of Raz-Kids in Cultivating Primary School Students’ Reading Skills
Authors: Kara Saban
Published: December 2024

Many schools integrate technology into their curriculum to reap the benefits incessantly. Thanks to unprecedented technological breakthroughs, the popularity of e-books has increased significantly. As a result, the market for e-book apps has expanded exponentially. Although multiple studies have been conducted on the widely used reading program Raz-Kids, there has been no study regarding teacher-generated quizzes on Raz-Kids in Iraq. With this fact in mind, this study explored the effects of teacher-created quizzes on improving the reading skills of third-grade students during the fall and spring semesters of the 2023-2024 academic year. Forty-four students from a private international primary school in Iraq were selected via convenience sampling to represent one of the groups. The control group engaged with the books and answered standard quiz questions via the Raz-kids app. On the other hand, the experimental group studied the books and completed teacher-generated quizzes. The data were collected via reading examinations and surveys to be analyzed by either SPSS 29 or MAXQDA. Exams and surveys were used to compare students’ reading performance and analyse their perceptions in-depth. Quantitative data showed that students in the experimental group efficiently utilized teacher-created quizzes, resulting in exceptional performance in reading assessments. Moreover, composing balanced, coherent, engaging questions influenced students’ written and spoken English proficiency. Thus, the findings of this study may guide stakeholders seeking to include e-book applications in English classes.
Sporadic medullary thyroid carcinoma in childhood: a clinical case report
Authors:   Endocrinology Research Center of the Ministry of Healthcare of Russia, Moscow, Russia, Bondarenko Ye.V. , Bricheva E.B. ,   Endocrinology Research Center of the Ministry of Healthcare of Russia, Moscow, Russia, Abrosimov A.Yu. ,   Endocrinology Research Center of the Ministry of Healthcare of Russia, Moscow, Russia, Nagayeva E.V. ,   Endocrinology Research Center of the Ministry of Healthcare of Russia, Moscow, Russia, Belousov P.V. ,   Endocrinology Research Center of the Ministry of Healthcare of Russia, Moscow, Russia, Buzdin A.A. ,   Endocrinology Research Center of the Ministry of Healthcare of Russia, Moscow, Russia, Suntsova M.V. ,   Endocrinology Research Center of the Ministry of Healthcare of Russia, Moscow, Russia, Brovin D.N. ,   Endocrinology Research Center of the Ministry of Healthcare of Russia, Moscow, Russia, Matrosova A.A. ,   Endocrinology Research Center of the Ministry of Healthcare of Russia, Moscow, Russia, Mokrysheva N.G. ,   Endocrinology Research Center of the Ministry of Healthcare of Russia, Moscow, Russia
Published: December 2024

Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is one of the rarest tumors of the neuroendocrine system occurring in childhood. MTC represents approximately 4% to 8% of all thyroid malignancies in children with an incidence of 0.03 per 100,000 pediatric population per annum. As a rule, MCT in childhood is presented as part of hereditary syndromes (MEN2A, MEN2B) whereas the prevalence of the sporadic form has not been sufficiently studied as well as its molecular and genetic features. Authors represent the Russia’s first clinical case of sporadic MTC in a 16 years old child. The girl at the age of 14 y/o was examined by an endocrinologist at the place of residence due to the absence of menarche. According to the results of a comprehensive examination, a mass measuring of up to 27 mm was detected in the left lobe of the thyroid gland. Cytological examination revealed a picture suspicious for C-cell carcinoma. The basal calcitonin level was 2160 pg/ml (with 0 to 4.8 pg/ml as a norm). The patient had then underwent thyroidectomy with central lymphadenectomy as a result of histological and immunohistochemical studies of medullary thyroid carcinoma pT2N0 MxLV0Pn0. According to the results of molecular genetic study of peripheral blood, neither germinal pathogenic nor opportunistic mutations in RET gene were detected. Full-exome sequencing of DNA isolated from tumour tissue revealed as pathogenic/conditional pathogenic mutations RET p.M918T, CHEK2 p. R29X, VRK1 p.H119R and ARSE p. G422R. After 3.5 years of follow-up, the patient had a complete structural and biochemical remission of the disease.
Determination of thyroid profile in infants who have undergone surgical correction of congenital heart defects with cardiopulmonary bypass and had hypothermia
Authors:   A.N. Bakulev Scientific Center for Cardiovascular Surgery, Moscow, Russia, Vlasova M.V. , Rogova T.V. ,   A.N. Bakulev Scientific Center for Cardiovascular Surgery, Moscow, Russia, Kim A.I. ,   A.N. Bakulev Scientific Center for Cardiovascular Surgery, Moscow, Russia, Chernikov V.V. ,   National Medical Research Center for Children’s Health, Moscow, Russia
Published: December 2024

Thyroid hormones are of a particular interest as a support for patients who have undergone cardiac surgical interventions. According to the bibliographical findings, artificial blood circulation with CPB, hypothermia and the use of dopamine reduce the level of thyroid hormones. The purpose of this research was to determine the thyroid hormone levels in infants with “acyanotic” and “cyanotic” congenital heart defects at different stages of hospitalization, comparison of the results between groups. Materials and methods used: a single-center prospective cohort study of 54 cases of surgical treatment of children with congenital heart defects (CHDs) was conducted. Correction of congenital heart disease was carried out with CPB in accordance with the approved clinical protocols. To assess the thyroid profile, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroxine (free T4) and triiodothyronine (free T3) were examined. The algorithm for diagnosing hormone levels included three stages - it was measured prior to, one day after and 7 to 10 days after the surgical correction of congenital heart disease. The influence of clinical (hemodynamic) manifestations during surgical intervention on the level of thyroid hormones and TSH in the early and late postoperative period was assessed. Results: the majority of pediatric patients with “acyanotic” and “cyanotic” defects had a thyroid profile within normal limits upon admission to the hospital. In the early postoperative period, a decrease in the level of thyroid hormones and TSH was noted. By the end of hospitalization, a tendency towards independent normalization was revealed in the majority of patients. Children with free T3 level one day after the surgery below normal had longer CPB application (p=0.022), longer clamping of the aorta (p=0.019) and a higher inotropic index (p=0.005) in contrast with those who had free T3 within normal values. Conclusion: the results obtained would be of help in assessing the risk for the transient decrease in the level of thyroid hormones development among children in the first year of life who underwent CHD surgical correction with CPB as well as the need for hormone replacement therapy during the early postoperative period.
Women- Breaking the Silence- The Portrayal of Women in the Select Indian Movies
Authors: Aravind Anu
Published: December 2024

When movies use to portray the sacrificial nature of woman in abandoning her devout attitude, time and space for the people to whom she should be obedient; here is a collection of movies trying to set a standard by deviating from the main stream movies. Women’ role in changing the face of the society is inevitable, their strength and liberation should also be pointed out. From the usual cliché of women being presented as docile and subservient inspite of all her prowesses, here is  Jaya Jaya Jaya He , The Great Indian Kitchen, English Vinglish  which stand out as the new trend setters by helping women to celebrate their freedom by questioning the so-called conventional patriarchal bias and energizing their worth as the silence breakers.
Rethinking Production. A Step Beyond the Hylomorphic and Anthropocentric Approach
Authors: JAKUBOWSKI Dimitri Jan
Published: December 2024

This research examines three thematic areas: philosophy, education, and ecology. It aims to be an interdisciplinary study, fundamentally based on the importance of the philosophy of environmental education and the practical implications that it can have. The problem of the contemporary hylomorphic production approach is first examined and then educational solutions are outlined towards a holistic understanding of the environment and of producing with it and not on it. By environment, in research, we also mean the human being because this is only one of his many appendages; therefore, as such, we try to relocate him to a non-privileged place (a place where he has been autonomously placed for centuries). It aims to be a militant study towards a different anti-anthropocene educational approach that finds its paradigm in the “Green Schools” of Bali, as we will see in the conclusion.
Quotidienneté et résistance
Authors: HATEM Jad
Published: December 2024

Daily Life and Resistance. Between daring project and tranquility, everyday life chooses the second term, the first threatening the habituality of serene existence. To do this, it deploys a minimal morality and, above all, a structure of resistance. The study is based on Andrei Pleşu, Simone de Beauvoir, and Josep Maria Esquirol.
RÉSUMÉ. Entre projet audacieux et quiétude, la quotidienneté choisit le second terme, le premier menaçant l’habitualité de l’existence sereine. Il déploie pour cela une morale minimale et surtout une structure de résistance. L’étude se base sur Andrei Pleșu, Simone de Beauvoir et surtout Josep Maria Esquirol.
Mots-clef : Vie quotidienne – Résistance - minima moralia - cultiver son jardin - Disponibilité
Răspunsuri tomiste la două opțiuni morale extreme: martiriul (ex caritate) și conservarea propriei vieți
Authors:   Preot greco-catolic, doctor în teologie fundamentală. Email: balaneancrstn@yahoo.com., BĂLĂNEAN Cristian
Published: December 2024

Thomistic Responses to Two Extreme Moral Options: Martyrdom (ex cari-tate) and Preservation of One's Own Life. Starting from the supreme sacrifice of Father Maximilian Kolbe, this article aims to justify, with additional arguments from the moral theology of St. Thomas Aquinas, the decree of Pope John Paul II that of canonizing him as a martyr ex caritate. Far from being just a simple issue of termino-logical distinction, martyrdom of charity – totally opposed to the attitude of preserving one's own life – constitutes a true martyrdom for Christ.
Keywords: virtue, martyrdom, life, conservation, charity, faith, Christ
Considerații cu privire la secularizare și anticlericalism IV/2. Romanul Mănăstirea din Parma de Stendhal
Authors:   Conf. univ. dr., Facultatea de Teologie Greco-Catolică, Departamentul Oradea, Universitatea Babeș-Bolyai, Cluj-Napoca, Romania. Email: ovidiu.pop@ubbcluj.ro., POP Ovidiu Horea
Published: December 2024

Considerations on secularization and anticlericalism IV/2. The Novel The Charterhouse of Parma by Stendhal. Henri-Marie Beyle, Stendhal's real name, would not have published anything if the Empire had not fallen, the writer being close-ly related to Napoleon. For this reason, Stendhal comes to literature so late and somewhat by accident, writing essays on painting and music in 1817 with his first book Rome, Naples and Florence. We find here impressions about Italian society, writ-ten at the beginning of a seven-year stay in Italy, in Milan. His critical reflections will continue in the Promenades dans Rome, in 1829 and in the Memoirs of a Tourist, in 1838. They would have continued in posthumous volumes as intimate notes, memo-ries, diaries and would have remained in manuscript if, at the age of forty-four, Sten-dhal had not discovered himself by chance, a novelist.
Keywords: anticlericalism, secularization, Restoration in Italian Duchies, Stendhal, The Charterhouse of Parma
The Metamorphoses of Matteo Ricci: A Case Study on Religious Visual Communication
Authors:   Doctorand, Școala Doctorală de Istorie, Universitatea Bucureşti, România. Email: kenanwang2015@gmail.com., WANG Kenan
Published: December 2024

The Metamorphoses of Matteo Ricci: A Case Study On Religious Visual Communication. The Jesuit missionary Matteo Ricci’s consecutive adoption of three different Chinese attires was crucial to the establishment of the Catholic Church in Late Ming China. An appropriate cultural contextualization suggests its nature and contributes to a better understanding of its consequences and relevance to the Church in our times.
Keywords: Catholicism in Late Ming China, Jesuit Missions in the Far East, Catholic-Confucian Dialogue, Catholic-Buddhist Dialogue, Inculturation, Matteo Ricci, Michele Ruggieri, Alessandro Valignano