bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preliminary Growth Inhibitory Studies of the Methanol Extract and Fractions of Leaves of Artocarpus altilis
Authors:   Department of Pharmacognosy and Traditional Medicine, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta State University Abraka, Ikpefan Emmanuel O
Published: February 2024

Purpose: Artocarpus altilis is one of the plants used by herbalists in parts of Abraka, Delta State for the management of various forms of cancer. This work is aimed at evaluating this claim using bench-top assay involving anti-proliferation of seed radicles of Sorghum bicolor. Methods: The powdered leaf sample was extracted with 90% methanol by cold maceration and the extract was evaluated for the presence of phytochemicals. The extract was subjected to vacuum liquid chromatographic fractionation and the fractions were all subjected to biological screening using guinea corn radicle inhibitory assay at concentrations between 1-30 (crude extract) and 1-10 mg/mL (fractions) respectively, over a period of 96 h. Results: The extract showed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, tannins, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids and anthraquinones. The controls had an average length of 32.45±5.70 mm, whereas the seeds treated with 20 mg/mL and 30 mg/mL of the crude extract had an average length of 2.03±0.87 mm and 0.40±0.28 mm respectively, indicating 93.70 and 98.77% reduction in length respectively. The bulked vlc fraction A4 was observed to exhibit a higher inhibitory effect over A3 and A10 bulked fractions as it gave an average of 0.65±0.57 at 10 mg/mL after 96 h indicating 99% reduction in length compared to 46.45 ± 5.32 mm of the control. Conclusion: This study involving the use of seed radicle assay to evaluate the inhibitory potential of this plant has to an extent validated the traditional use of this plant in the management of various forms of cancer. However, the need to isolate the active ingredients responsible for the observed activity and their corresponding biological activities on human cancer cell lines will form the basis of the next phase of this work. Keywords: Sorghum bicolor, phytochemicals, seed radicle, vacuum liquid chromatography
Astragalo-Scapho Calcaneal Dislocation and Literature Review
Authors:   CHR Haute Senne, Orthopedics-Traumatology Department, Chaussée de Braine, Belgium, Maton Maxime , De Vuyst Frederic ,   CHR Haute Senne, Orthopedics-Traumatology Department, Chaussée de Braine, Belgium, Descamps Pierre- Yves ,   CHR Haute Senne, Orthopedics-Traumatology Department, Chaussée de Braine, Belgium
Published: February 2024

Introduction: The subtalar dislocations are rare, this is described as a dislocation of the talo-calcaneal and talo-navicular joints but the tibio-talar joint is intact. The diagnosis is easy and done with x-ray: antéro-posterior and lateral view. A emergency reduction is necessary In a few cases, you need a surgical approach if the dislocation is irreducible or no stable after reduction. Case Report: A man aged of 19 years, felt in climbing, with a forced varus. In emergency room, the clinical exam showed a deformation and the x-ray: a talo-naviculo-calcaneal dislocation. A reduction is done in the operative room, the testing a showed a stable ankle so we stabilized with a posterior splint. During the post-operative consultation: the control x-ray showed a good reduction and the CT: a minimal osteo-cartilagny tearing. The sport is authorized after three month. Conclusion: The talo-naviculo-calcaneal dislocation is rare following a plantar flexion and inversion. A diagnosis is quickly and easily done and the reduction is done in the operative room under general anesthesia. A cast is applied during some weeks before starting the physiotherapy. A surgical treatment is done in a few rare: irreducible – instable – open dislocation.
Case Report: Onchocerciasis (Loa Loa)
Authors:   Pediatric Emergency Physcian -Security Forces Hospital-Riyadh-Saudi Arabia, Bazie Elsharif A , Alshehri Abdullah Mohammed ,   Pediatric Emergency Consultant -Security Forces Hospital-Riyadh-Saudi Arabia
Published: February 2024

Onchocerca volvulus is a spirurid nematode from the Superfamily Filarial diseases, family Onchocerciadae. We report a family member from Saudi Arabia with Onchocerciasis from Dammam City.We report a family member from Saudi Arabia with Onchocerciasis from Dammam City. Ocular lesions, ranging from sclerosing keratitis to optic nerve atrophy, increase the incidence of Blindness among patients.Knowledge about tropical diseases in non-tropical countries is essential to early diagnosis and treatment.
Mental Health Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Healthcare Workers
Authors:   Department of Nursing, Eastern New Mexico University, Portales, USA, Cox Maurice
Published: February 2024

A brief review of the literature surrounding healthcare workers, with a focus on nurses, and how the global COVID-19 pandemic impacted their mental health. A review of the situation before the pandemic as well as during and after the pandemic, including coping mechanisms being employed, both adaptive and not. A brief review of some actions that can be taken by management teams to support their staff as the pandemic comes to an end.
Keinginan Bertingkah Laku dari Aspek Penerimaan Kandungan Dakwah Digital dalam kalangan Netizen Muslim
Authors: Salehudin Husna , Mohamad Rasit Rosmawati , Aini Zulkefli
Published: February 2024

Perkembangan media dan teknologi memberi perubahan terhadap rutin kehidupan dan tingkah laku netizen. Pelbagai sumber media digital kerap menjadi rujukan netizen bagi mendapatkan maklumat. Netizen Muslim turut bergantung kepada media digital dalam mendapatkan maklumat mengenai Islam dan dakwah. Namun, kewujudan kandungan dakwah di media digital perlu diteliti penerimaannya dalam kalangan netizen Muslim agar tidak mengelirukan mereka. Oleh itu, kajian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis sejauhmana penerimaan kandungan dakwah di media digital dalam kalangan netizen Muslim dan menentukan hubungan keinginan bertingkah laku netizen Muslim dan penerimaan kandungan dakwah berdasarkan Model Technology Acceptance (TAM). Kajian ini menggunakan kaedah reka bentuk cross-sectional survey melalui pengedaran borang soal selidik dalam talian sebagai kaedah pengumpulan data. Seramai 306 sampel responden dipilih menggunakan jenis pensampelan bertujuan. Data dianalisis melalui ujian statistik deskriptif dan statistik inferensi menggunakan perisian SPSS 32.0. Hasil kajian menunjukkan bahawa majoriti pengguna telah memilih aplikasi Youtube dalam penerimaan dakwah. Ini kerana, Youtube mempunyai kemudahan mencari maklumat berkaitan agama malah mempunyai elemen visual dan audio yang menarik.
Strategi Pengelolaan Modal Kerja dalam Menjaga Tingkat Likuiditas dan Profitabilitas pada BMT- Al Hidayah Kabupaten Lombok Timur
Authors: Ainul Arofah  , Zaenudin Mansyur  , Zulpawati
Published: February 2024

The background of this research is the determination of working capital in relation between the liquidity trade off and profitability, the capital determination which is not appropriate will have an impact on the liquidity level causing BMT being unproductive, and it also impacts on profitability. This research aimed to determine the working capital management strategy in maintaining liquidity and profitability levels and how the impact of the strategy which has been implemented.This research was descriptive qualitative research using primary and secondary data, with data collection techniques namely observation, interviews and documentation of the financial reports from 2019 to 2021. The analysis used was data reduction, data presentation, drawing conclusions, and financial report analysis used the calculation of liquidity and profitability ratios. The results of the research showed that the working capital management strategy and policy used by BMT AI-Hidayah in maintaining the level of liquidity, namely establishing partnerships with sharia banks and non-banks, setting cash budgets, and allocating the funds to branch offices, while the policy used by BMT in maintaining its profitability level was distribution in the funding form. The impact of the policy implemented by BMT in terms of liquidity, namely having sufficient funds in its operations to pay the obligations. It can be seen in the ratio calculation from 2019 to 2021. NWC, current ratio, cash ratio  are in a fairly good category. the impact on the profitability side was that BMT has increased revenue and this can be seen in the ROE calcultion which is in the very good category,  while the ROI calcultion is in the fairly good category.
Misiologi dalam Problematika Agama di Masyarakat Demokratis Multikultural
Authors: Kristianto Paulus Eko
Published: February 2024

Religious problems in democratic societies are commonplace and have occurred since before the formation of democracy. However, the color of the problematic discussion is different. What are the colors of religious problems in a multicultural democratic society? This article tries to map it through library research methods on books and journals to build a meeting with the construction of religion and public space in a multicultural democratic society, the rationality of faith, and the church in action. These meetings led to efforts to construct missiology. Missiology is expected to provide a bright and straightforward way to see various problems by discussing the call of religion to proclaim the Kingdom of God rather than just standing and focusing only on the issues of religion and its practice itself.

Abstrak
Problematika agama dalam masyarakat demokratis menjadi hal biasa dan sudah terjadi sejak sebelum terbentuknya demokrasi. Walau begitu, warna diskusi problematika itu berbeda-beda. Bagaimana warna problematika agama di masyarakat demokratis multikultural? Artikel ini mencoba memetakannya melalui metode penelitian pustaka terhadap buku dan jurnal guna membangun pertemuannya dengan konstruksi agama dan ruang publik dalam masyarakat demokratis multikultural, rasionalitas iman, dan gereja dalam aksi. Pertemuan-pertemuan tersebut bermuara pada upaya mengonstruksi misiologis. Misiologi diharapkan memberikan jalan terang dan jernih melihat beragam problematika dengan membahas panggilan agama yang mewartakan Kerajaan Allah, bukan semata berdiri dan berfokus hanya pada problematika agama dan praktiknya itu sendiri.
Pendidikan Kristiani Mereduksi Hegemoni Politik Identitas: Upaya Membangun Demokrasi dan Kebebasan Berpolitik
Authors: Arifianto Yonatan Alex
Published: February 2024

The phenomenon of identity politics has had a negative impact in the form of social segregation and conflict that has the potential to lead to division. The government urges all parties to maintain the unity and integrity of the nation through various means, one of which is launching a religious mode-ration program several years ago. Religion is considered essential and crucial in the issue of identity politics. This research aims to initiate the role of Christian education in reducing the hegemony of identity politics. By using descriptive analysis methods through literature studies from research results on identity politics and the essence of Christian education, a religious format is produced that can reduce the hegemony of identity politics. In conclusion, Christian education can be a way for the church to build a political paradigm with integrity and a democratic political situation.

Abstrak

Fenomena politik identitas telah memberikan dampak negatif berupa segregasi sosial hingga konflik yang berpotensi pada perpecahan. Pemerintah mendesak semua pihak agar memelihara kesatuan dan keutuhan bangsa melalui berbagai cara, yang salah satunya adalah meluncurkan program moderasi beragama beberapa tahun lalu. Agama dianggap penting dan krusial dalam perosalan politik identitas. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menginisiasi peran pendidikan kristiani dalam mereduksi hegemoni politik identitas. Dengan menggunakan metode analisis deskriptif melalui kajian literatur dari hasil penelitian tentang politik identitas dan esensi pendidikan kristiani, dihasilkan sebuah format beragama yang mampu mereduksi hegemoni politik identitas. Simpulannya, pendidikan kristiani dapat menjadi cara gereja membangun paradigma politik yang berintegritas dan situasi berpolitik yang demokratis.
Decoding Intelligence in Artificial Intelligence: Tracing Historical Evolution, Analysing Definitions, and Regulatory Challenges
Authors: Filina Elizaveta
Published: February 2024

The text provides a detailed exploration of artificial intelligence (AI), spanning its historical development, types based on capabilities and functionalities, achievements, and challenges in defining the term. The discussion encompasses the limitations of current AI, particularly in achieving human-like intelligence. The text addresses the absence of a universally accepted definition for AI and explores various definitions from influential figures in the field. It emphasises the challenges in regulating AI due to the lack of consensus on its definition. The narrative concludes by underscoring the necessity of clear definitions for effective regulation amid the increasing integration of AI into diverse sectors.
Factor Analysis Approach for Measuring Safety Culture in Research University in Malaysia
Authors: Ismail Zitty Sarah , Arifin Kadir , Darus Fairus Muhamad , Muhamad Mazhani , Nik Arifin Nik Azlin
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Safety culture is an important factor for improving safety in university. This study aimed to examines the construct validity and reliability of the elements of safety culture in research universities in Malaysia. Methods: A measuring instrument was developed and analyzed for reliability using an exploratory factor analysis approach. The reliability analysis was determined using Cronbach’s Alpha. About 298 postgraduates’ students from five research universities were selected randomly. An exploratory factor analysis was performed using the principal component method with varimax rotation, Kaiser Meyer Olkin, Bartlett’s test of Sphericity and Cronbach’s alpha were obtained. Statistical analysis was carried out using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) and Analysis Moment of Structures (AMOS) version 24.0 (IBM SPSS-AMOS V24.0) software. Results: Findings indicated that the Keiser-Meyer-Olkin for all elements of safety culture (training, leadership, management commitment and communication) was in the range 0.799 and 0.916, in which the value was greater than 0.70, while Barlett’s test with a p value of 0.000. Factor loadings were greater than 0.60 in all elements of safety culture. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was at the range of reliability between 0.8 < α < 0.9. Conclusion: It can be concluded the instrument was found to be a potential mechanism for measuring safety culture in research universities in Malaysia.
Densification of Calcium Phosphate from Biogenic Waste for Biomedical Application
Authors: Ahmad Nawawi Natasha , Azmi Farra Atiqa , Azizan Azliyana , Le Thi Bang
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Calcium phosphate-based biomaterial is commonly employed in biomedical applications such as dental applications, bone substitution and filler tissue engineering. Its excellent biocompatibility and potential bio-implant material have attracted many researchers to broaden their hydroxyapatite (HA) studies. Methods: The present work used waste eggshells as the source of calcium precursor to synthesize HA via a solid-state reaction. The eggshells were calcined at 700°C and mixed with the phosphate precursor, dicalcium phosphate dihydrate (DCPD). Following this, the mixture was ball-milled at 400 rpm for 2h and then heat treated at 800°C to produce pure eggshell-derived HA powder. The synthesized HA powder was then consolidated by uniaxial pressing (~6.5 – 7.1 tons) and sintered at 4 different temperatures of 1100°C, 1150°C, 1200°C and 1250°C. Results: From the XRD analysis of the sintered HA samples, it was found that an increase in sintering temperature up to 1250°C did not affect the phase stability of the HA phase. Besides that, grain size, relative density and hardness of the sintered HA samples were also increased with sintering temperature. It was observed that HA dense sample prepared by compacting at 7.1 tons followed by sintering at 1250°C showed the best combination of mechanical properties among all samples with a relative density of 94.6% and a hardness of 3.7 GPa. Conclusion: The current result is significant in supporting the potential of the synthesized eggshell-derived calcium phosphate powder as an ideal alternative for the creation of cost-effective, biocompatible biomaterials for biomedical applications.
Physical Activity and its Relationship with Mental Health and Quality of Life Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Mohd Faisal Ameera Fatihah , Azizan Azliyana , Azmi Hadirah , Sahrani Syazana
Published: February 2024

Introduction: The global population is aging rapidly, accompanied by high rates of physical inactivity among older adults. Physical inactivity in later life can negatively impact physical function, mental health, and quality of life. Gardening meets physical activity guidelines for older adults (150-300 minutes of moderate activity per week). This study examined relationships between physical activity levels, mental health, and quality of life in community-dwelling older adults. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 150 adults aged ≥ 60 years (mean 65.65 ± 6.54 years). Physical activity levels, mental health, and quality of life were assessed using validated questionnaires. Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients were calculated to assess relationships between variables. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0. Results: There was a statistically significant, negative, fair correlation between physical activity levels and mental health scores (r=-0.21, p<0.05), indicating higher physical activity was associated with better mental health. Physical activity levels positively correlated with quality of life (r=0.19, p<0.05). Conclusion: Higher physical activity levels were associated with better mental health and higher quality of life in community-dwelling older adults. Gardening may be an effective activity to improve health outcomes in this population. Further research should examine causal relationships and gardening interventions.
Antibiotic Resistant Escherichia coli Isolated from Faecal Samples of Cow at Livestock Farm in Kedah, Malaysia
Authors: Mohamed Suffian Nurul Suhana , Nor Amdan Nur Asyura , Bakon Sophia Karen , Mohd Hatta Siti Khairiyah , Mohamad Jamil Norashirene , Rasol Rafidah
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Escherichia coli is a typical microflora found in the intestines of livestock, but regular exposure to antibiotics puts them under selection pressure to acquire antibiotic resistance. This study aimed to identify and characterise the antibiotic resistance profile of E. coli isolated in cow faeces collected from Tobiar Modern farm located in Kedah, Malaysia. Materials and methods: The antibiotic susceptibility test (AST) was conducted to assess the sensitivity of E. coli isolates to tetracycline (30 µg/mL), erythromycin (15 µg/mL) and ampicillin (10 µg/mL) using disk diffusion method followed by Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) assay. For molecular identification of selected resistant isolates, 16S rDNA gene sequencing was carried out. Results: Six (Isolates A1, P1, P2, P3, P4, and P5) out of 30 isolates were identified as E. coli based on their colonial morphological characteristics. The tests for catalase, indole, MR, TSI, and lactose fermentation all yielded positive results for the isolates, whereas the tests for oxidase, citrate, and VP yielded negative results. All six isolates were found to be erythromycin resistant. The Isolate P4 was observed as a multidrug resistant (MDR) bacterial strain since it exhibited resistance to all tested antibiotics. The MDR Isolate P4 is identified as E. coli strain LWY24 using molecular identification with a 99.7% identity rate. Conclusion: This study offers important preliminary information on the incidence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) on this particular local livestock farm. This data is useful for developing plans to reduce the prevalence of ARB in livestock.
From behaving to being:
Authors: Silva Paulo Eduardo Lopes da
Published: February 2024

What is childhood? This basic but not less intriguing question guides the present philosophical exercise. However, along the journey, that first question inevitably leads us to some other indispensable queries: What are we able to know about children through the way they behave? Is it ‘what’ they are indeed? If behaviours show us some things, cannot they, at the same time, hide others from us? What is it they are showing or hiding? What is at stake here? Returning to our first and guiding question and paying a little more attention to it, we may realise a very important detail there, which consists in just two letters: the use of the verb be. Most of the times, we ask ‘What is childhood?’ and, a moment later, we turn away and forget what we were primarily looking for. Completely lost and without even noticing it, we eagerly begin our saga in order to produce theories and more theories about childhood. But what have become of the children themselves? Now they are nothing more than objects of our systematic and empirical scientific researches. We have been treating them as machines of behaviour and – with the help of cutting-edge technology – products of our manipulation. This way, we abandon who they are. We ignore their being. If we are truly willing to help them discover their ownmost potentiality-for-being (eigenstes Seinkönnen), that is, their possible authenticity (Eigentlichkeit), then we must face the challenge of receiving them as the Dasein they are.
Gadamerian philosophical hermeneutics and the laudanian perspective of research traditions in agronomy
Authors: Albrecht Leandro P. , Albrecht Alfredo Junior Paiola
Published: February 2024

Agronomic science or technoscience has an important role in contemporary times and is the focus of necessary philosophical investigations. The present study aimed to relate Gadamerian philosophical hermeneutics with the Laudanian concept of philosophy of science, also applied to the philosophy of technology within the agronomic context. The central question to be answered is: can Gadamerian philosophical hermeneutics apply to the understanding of agronomy? Given this, central references and commentators were selected, dividing the dialogue between the authors and the argumentation into the following points: sciences, technologies, and Gadamerian philosophical hermeneutics; agronomic traditions and their Laudanian progress; reaching the final possibility of intersections between Gadamer and Laudan, when reflecting on agronomy, especially on the theme of traditions.
Embustes fenomenológicos entre Husserl e Brentano sobre a origem do tempo
Authors: Oliveira Isabela Carolina Carneiro de
Published: February 2024

O tempo é um grande tema para a fenomenologia. O atual artigo remonta alguns dos embates teóricos entre as primeiras teorias elaboradas por Husserl e Brentano sobre esta temática. É curioso notarmos que Husserl também se deparou com muitos dos problemas epistêmicos enfrentados pelo Brentano. No entanto, Husserl não tinha o compromisso de melhorar a teoria brentaniana, uma vez que o autor não quis continuar como um membro de sua escola. Conforme veremos, Husserl elaborou desde os seus escritos iniciais sobre a temporalidade fenomenológica e a consciência-tempo, algo totalmente diverso daquilo que foi proposto pela primeira teoria do tempo  de Brentano.
„Własne nazwy” getta warszawskiego jako językowa reakcja na okupacyjną rzeczywistość
Authors: Witkowska-Krych Agnieszka
Published: February 2024

The information about the creation of the ghetto in Warsaw was announced on 12 October 1940, and the final closure took place just over a month later. Ultimately, more than 400,000 people were imprisoned within the ghetto walls. The need to organise life in a reality that was completely different from that of the pre-war time led many Warsaw Jews to reflect on the essence of the ghetto and try to compare this phenomenon to other, often better, though usually only theoretically familiar places and spaces. Hence the large number of synonymous, entirely unofficial terms for the ghetto, referring to its various features. The most common terms include: labyrinth, trap, closed city, prison or camp, although apart from the most popular ones, both period sources and postwar memoirs contain many unobvious metaphors for the Warsaw Ghetto, its peculiar new “own names”, created from scratch, whether as a result of a deeper reflection or simply stemming from the need of the moment, as a reaction to what was happening around. A handful of the most interesting, least known and at the same time very telling names will be presented, together with the context of their creation.
Między Aleją Świerczewskiego a Mostem Grota. Druga wojna światowa w polityce pamięci historycznej PRL na przykładzie warszawskiego nazewnictwa miejskiego
Authors: Leszkowicz Tomasz
Published: February 2024

City names are one of the most important tools of politics of memory – the politically conditioned shaping of public perceptions of the past. In Warsaw after 1945, the ruling communists pursued a naming programme in which they referred to figures, events and symbols associated with World War II. As a result, a canon of city names was created, which included both references to the ‘official’, communist vision of history and ‘alternative’ themes of an independence-oriented nature.
Ciekawy przypadek ulicy Jana Kochanowskiego na warszawskich Piaskach
Authors: Piotrowski Igor
Published: February 2024

The article is a case study of Jana Kochanowskiego Street in Warsaw. The starting point is the statement on the late naming of the street with the name of the most important Polish pre-romantic poet in the capital city of Poland (in comparison to naming streets after minor poets). The author presents the circumstances that led to this situation and recreates the contexts accompanying the belated inclusion of Jan Kochanowski in the canon of writers who were preferred eponyms of streets in the capital of Poland after WWI. Next, he tries to compare Kochanowskiego Street in Warsaw with Kochanowskiego Streets in other large cities of Poland.
A Study on Paradiguna (Samskara) W.S.R to “Samaskarohi Gunantaradhanam Uchyate” and ITS Applied Aspect in the Management of Mukhadushika with an Indiginous Drug
Authors: Biswas Susmita , Sahoo Manoj Kumar
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Acharya Charaka has clearly said that if one does not understand these Paradi Guna in proper way then  he cannot perform Chikitsa in desire manner. Paradi Gunas are the one in which a physician needs to be expertise.  Paradigunas are necessary in the field of pharmaceutical science, as well as by the physicians to treat the patients  and researchers conducting research and creating new formulation. Samskara Guna is one of the important factors in  the hands of Ayurvedic physician for improving other third padas of Bhesaja (i.e., Bahuta, Yogyatwa, and Sampat). Thus in this study, an attempt was made to know the comparative effect of Manjistha Lepa and Samskrita Manjistha  with Madhu Lepa in the management of Mukhadushika. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to study about the comparative clinical efficacy of Manjistha Lepa  and triturated with Madhu Lepa in the management of Mukhadushika. Materials and Methods: This is a single-blind comparative clinical study with a pre-test and post-test design. The  patients were randomly categorized into two groups. Forty patients of Group A (20) and Group B (20) patients were  registered from outpatient department of Government Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Balangir, and Saradeswari  Government Hospital, Balangir, presented with subjective parameters and objective parameters. After diagnosis, they  were under trial with Ayurvedic formulations of Manjistha Lepa for local application and Manjistha triturated Madhu  Lepa given 05 g in morning time daily, after drying face wash with normal water for 15 days, respectively. The  subjective and objective parameters were assessed in 7-day interval to interpret the result by statistical evaluation. Observation and Results: It had been observed that the result of trial drug Group B patients was significant (<0.05)  to reduce both subjective and objective parameters after 15 days of treatment as compared to Group A patients. In  Group A, NO patients had marked improvement, while 15% of patients had moderate improvement, 65% mildly  improved and 20% had shown unsatisfactory result. In Group B, no patients had marked improvement, 50%  moderate, 40% mildly improved, and 10% of patients showed unsatisfactory results. In both groups, the result was  statistically significant, but more improvement was noticed in Group B. Conclusion: On comparison between two groups, Manjistha triturated with Madhu Lepa in Group B had shown  more effect than Manjistha Lepa in Group A. No adverse effects were noticed during clinical trial in both groups.
Analysis of Vatavyadhi Samprapti – A Practical Perspective
Authors: Mohanta Sarita , Das Arun Kumar
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Ayurveda is one of the oldest medical systems comprising numerous medical concepts and hypotheses.  Vatavyadhi is an important chapter described in all Samhitas. Vatavyadhi patients are increasing in day-to-day practice,  so a clear understanding is necessary on its pathogenesis. Vatavyadhi occurs due to vitiation of Vatadosha. Vayu gets  vitiated due to numerous factors staring from diet to various habits, used medicines, environmental changes, etc.  Inside body Vayu gets vitiated and produces diseases either due to Dhatukshaya or Margavarodha. Materials and Methods: To analyze the Samprati (Pathogenesis) of Vatavyadhi from various Samhitas, contexts and  the views of researchers are taken into consideration as method of the review. Discussion and Conclusion: Vatavyadhi is a group of special diseases which is produced due to aggravate Vata. Due  to different etiological factors, Vata Prakopa occurs through Dhatukshaya and Margavarodha process which later  produce Vatavyadhi. These pathological processes may be regarded as Vishista Samprati (Pathogenesis) of Vatavyadhi.  During pathogenesis annoyed Vata may assemble with Pitta and Kapha, leading to modification of clinical features.
Surya Namaskar, Benefits in the Context of Physiological Perspective
Authors: Patni Nameet Kumar , Devi Durgawati , Jain Sonam
Published: February 2024

Introduction: With the recent rise in awareness in increased understanding of the importance of physical activity  in promoting overall health, greater emphasis has been placed on improving physical fitness to enhance quality  of life. Asian Indians have been practicing Surya Namaskar, a part of Hatha Yoga, for hundreds of years. It is  frequently employed in place of a typical workout regimen. It entails a series of asanas that are performed 12 times  per cycle. Although Surya Namaskar was neither considered an asana nor a part of classical Yoga, it is now regarded  as a component of current yogic practices. Before starting daily tasks, performing Surya Namaskar energizes the  practitioner and gives them a fully charged day. The knowledge of energy cost and physiological responses of  practicing Surya Namaskar is important and forms the basis for the recommendation of regular practice as part of any  training. Based on available research, we emphasize the significance of Surya Namaskar in this review by stressing  its impacts on the physiological components of the body. Methods: Different Ayurveda classics, modern classics, research papers, and journals were referred to fulfill this part. Results: With the help of research references, the evaluation outlines the practice’s physical advantages in terms of  improving joint mobility, extending muscle power, and promoting vitality.
Arogyavardhini Vati – Critical Analysis of a Miracle Drug
Authors: Sahoo Preetimayee , Mahanta Nihar Ranjan , Mishra Sanjay Kumar
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Arogyavardhini Vati is a herbomineral preparation which has miraculous effects on many diseases. It  has the ability of balancing Tridosha and is beneficial in many liver disorders, dyslipidemia, metabolic syndrome,  skin diseases, etc. Many clinical research and animal studies have been done to establish its actions in various  diseases and its safety during use. Material and Methods: Here, in this article, an attempt is made to collect all the literary data about Arogyavardhini  Vati from our treaties and all the research articles available. These data are compiled and analyzed and the results  obtained are presented. Results: The Rasapanchaka analysis shows that Arogyavardhini Vati is Tikta Rasa Pradhana (27.59%) followed by  Kashaya (24.14%) and Katu (20.69%) rasa, predominant in Laghu (29.03%) and Ruksha Guna (29.03%), Ushna  Virya predominant (54.55%), and the Vipaka was katu (54.55%). Discussion: Research evidence shows that Arogyavardhini Vati is effective on various liver diseases such as hepatitis,  non-alcoholic and alcoholic fatty liver, Jalodara or ascites due to liver disorder, and autoimmune liver disease.  Animal experiments also proved its hepatoprotective activities. It has anti-hyperlipidemic action, helps in metabolic  syndrome, and is beneficial in many skin diseases. It reduces the pus discharge in karna srava or chronic suppurative  otitis media. Studies show that pharmaceutical and analytical parameters for Arogyavardhini Vati are validated by  HPTLC method. Toxicity studies show no accumulation or toxic effect of mercury and copper on vital organs.  Conclusion: Arogyavardhini vati is safe and miraculously effective in many diseases.
Consumption pattern of meat and meat products in and around Nagpur city of Maharashtra
Authors: Mundhe B L , Rathod K S , Badhe S R , Roupesh G
Published: February 2024

A study was conducted to understand consumption patterns and factors influencing consumption pattern of meat and meat products in and around Nagpur city. A proportionate random sampling method was used to conduct a survey (sample size of 400) using a bilingual (Marathi and English) questionnaire comprising questions related to the socioeconomic particulars of the consumers, meat and meat products consumption patterns, and factors influencing on it. The study revealed that most respondents were 15 to 30 years (52.5%) and college graduates (35.8%). About 43% of the respondents reported a family income of more than six lakhs. Most of the consumers ate meat for taste (54.4%) and health benefits (27.0%) and responded that they usually consume meat once a week (50.3%). The most preferred meat in and around Nagpur city was poultry meat (50.8%), followed by chevon (27.5%) and Fish & seafood (18.7%). Most respondents (66.8%) were unwilling to pay more for lean meat. The results indicated that most respondents consider safety, nutritional value, taste, market price, availability, and children’s meat preference as essential factors influencing meat consumption.
Quality, Storage Stability, and Effect of Cryoprotectants onUltrastructure of Superchilled Chicken
Authors: Banerjee Rituparna , Maheswarappa Naveena B , Muthukumar M , Dasoju Sowmya
Published: February 2024

The concept of superchilling, an alternative to traditional chilling and freezing methods, is to reduce the temperature 1-2 °C below the initial freezing point of the food enabling safe, and high-quality product. This work was aimed to explore the effects of superchilling (-2±0.5°C), chilling (4±1°C), and freezing (−18±1°C) on the quality and storage stability of dressed chicken and also to evaluate the role of cryoprotectants during superchilling for enhanced meat quality. In superchilled samples, improved water holding capacity (WHC) and lower shear force values were observed relative to frozen chicken. SDS-PAGE analysis revealed the appearance of 29 kDa protein bands in superchilled samples on 7th and 14th day, indicating troponin degradation and tenderization. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) studies indicated minimal damage to muscle fibre ultrastructure in superchilled chicken relative to frozen samples. Integrity of fibre structure was well maintained in superchilled samples treated with sorbitol as a cryoprotectant relative to sucrose and polyphosphate. Results demonstrated the potential use of superchilling process along with cryoprotectants for improved quality and enhanced shelf-life of chicken.
Enhancing short academic presentations through extended independent practice using VoiceThread
Authors: Chang Heejin , Windeatt Scott
Published: February 2024

This study examines the potential of VoiceThread (VT) as a learning tool to enhance learners’ performance and confidence while facilitating ongoing independent practice in a 10-week English for Academic Purposes (EAP) programme in an Australian university. Students carried out weekly academic presentations on topics of personal interest using VT for recording and rehearsal. Their recordings were shared for peer review and teacher feedback. The recordings were analysed in relation to a number of features to measure utterance fluency, including speed, repairs and pauses. Questionnaires were used to investigate students’ perceptions of the value of the task, of their performance on the task, and of changes in their performance and confidence over time. Interviews were conducted to investigate the potential of recording and rehearsal for long-term independent practice. In total, 34 students participated in 10-week courses, 22 students using the VT software, and 12 students in a comparison class following the same curriculum, but without the VT software. The findings suggest that regular VT tasks, over time, help students develop their spoken English performance and confidence. Such voice-recording activities hold promise for improving oral performance by encouraging independent practice in oral activities, effectively addressing the time limitations, constraints practice opportunities, and feedback challenges inherent in classroom-based courses.
Listening tasks in virtual reality: A pilot study
Authors: Kaplan-Rakowski Regina , Ye Yongluan
Published: February 2024

Listening comprehension is a crucial skill in Foreign Language (FL) learning, yet many FL learners encounter challenges in this area, leading to frustration and discouragement. To address the issue, this pilot study investigated whether high-immersion Virtual Reality (VR) could effectively facilitate attentive listening tasks for FL learners. This quasi-experimental, within-subject pilot study involved ten learners of Chinese from an underserved, urban high school in the United States. Participants experienced an animated story in VR with and without captions, then completed pre- and post-tests to assess language gains and listening comprehension. A questionnaire measured participants' perceptions of VR and the use of captions. Results indicated that VR positively impacted language gains and listening comprehension, showing improvement with both groups of participants. Although the group without captions slightly outperformed the group with captions, this difference was not statistically significant. Novice learners reported challenges in comprehending the VR story, highlighting their need for appropriate scaffolding. Overall, the findings suggest that VR can be an effective tool for practicing listening comprehension for FL learners, but careful consideration of content complexity and scaffolding is crucial for learners at different proficiency levels. This study lays the groundwork for further research on VR-assisted language learning.
How do virtual reality lessons affect EFL learners’ perceptions of speaking English?
Authors: Satake Yoshiho , Yamamoto Shinji , Obari Hiroyuki
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the effects of fully immersive Virtual Reality (VR) lessons on Japanese English learners' perceptions of speaking English. Seven undergraduate students volunteered for one-hour interviews after participating in VR English conversation lessons over seven months using Oculus Quest 2 VR headsets and the Immerse platform. Participants reported a favorable acceptance of VR for English-language learning because of its fun and comfortable nature compared to face-to-face or Zoom lessons. They felt more comfortable and less anxious when communicating in English through avatars and appreciated the gaming aspects of the VR experience. A positive shift was found in the attitudes of those who had not previously experienced English conversation lessons. However, participants highlighted the need for technical improvements in VR technology. These findings suggest VR's potential as an effective language-learning tool.
A pilot study of data-driven learning approach in teaching Chinese vocabulary
Authors: Chang Li-ping , Tseng Yuting
Published: February 2024

The Data-Driven Learning (DDL) approach advocates a shift from passive knowledge recipients to active researchers among learners. This is achieved by utilizing abundant and context-rich target language inputs in a bottom-up learning process (Johns, 1990). Despite the scarcity of empirical research on the implementation of DDL in Chinese as a Second Language (CSL) classrooms, this study conducted a teaching experiment focused on confusable words to explore the approach's effects and learners' attitudes. Five advanced-level CSL learners from diverse native language backgrounds participated in the study, being taught ten sets of confusable words over a five-week period. The first five lessons employed an indirect DDL method, while the latter five utilized a direct DDL method with Sketch Engine. To evaluate the effectiveness of the DDL approach, a pre-test was administered prior to the course, followed by a post-test, a questionnaire, and one-on-one interviews after the completion of the course. The results of the post-test revealed an average improvement of 24% compared to the pre-test with statistical significance. Additionally, learners exhibited a positive attitude towards the course, expressing a preference for learning vocabulary through collocations and showing a desire to observe pre-selected concordance lines under the guidance of the instructor.
Beyond the walls of classrooms: Exploring the pedagogical effectiveness of Text-To-Speech-based Shadowing (TTS-S) on the development of Mandarin tones
Authors: Richer Sue-Anne , Cardoso Walcir
Published: February 2024

This study examines the pedagogical effectiveness of using Text-To-Speech synthesis (TTS) combined with Shadowing (TTS-S) for self-regulated learning of Mandarin tones 1 and 4. The aim is to determine the probability of success of this innovative approach that uses TTS to generate audio for shadowing practice. The research was guided by the following research question: can TTS-S help L2 learners raise their awareness and improve their perception and production of the target Mandarin tones over a period of six weeks? Over six week, ten participants engaged in self-regulated activities using TTS-S to learn the two pronunciation targets. By means of pre-/post-tests (to assess effectiveness in pronunciation) participants were asked to complete: (1) an awareness task in which they verbalized their metacognitive knowledge of Mandarin tones; (2) ABX tasks to assess their perception of Mandarin tones; and (3) a production task to evaluate their production of the target tones. Our findings are inconclusive regarding the effectiveness of TTS-S for improving awareness, perception, and production of Mandarin tones 1 and 4 among L2 learners. They also indicate that while certain aspects of phonological development, specifically production, showed some improvements, the overall impact was not statistically significant.
The teacher-in-the-loop: collaboration with the teaching community in the development of an iCALL platform for Irish
Authors: Comtois Madeleine , Ní Chiaráin Neasa
Published: February 2024

This paper explores the teacher functionality within An Scéalaí, an iCALL platform being developed for Irish. Aiming to foster Irish language learning, the design and development of An Scéalaí has from the outset employed a cooperative approach with educators to optimise its responsiveness to user needs. There is a particular emphasis on corrective feedback at this current stage of development as we posit that administering constructive corrective feedback to learners will be the cornerstone of its pedagogical effectiveness and user satisfaction. The efficacy of iCALL platforms in promoting endangered languages, such as Irish, is contingent upon the active involvement of the associated language community. This work presents the findings of a recent questionnaire conducted as part of the ongoing initiative to engage educators and developers in a collective effort towards language revitalisation. We sought to gain an overview of teachers’ experiences teaching Irish and their impressions of the An Scéalaí platform, introducing new functionality they would not have previously encountered. The results give us insights into the current situation of technology use in classrooms (post-Covid). It reinforces the importance of having the teacher-in-the-loop at every stage of iCALL development to ensure useful applications are built for the wider teacher community.
Exploring users’ perceptions of ASR for writing narrative texts
Authors: Mehdipour-Kolour Danial , Cardoso Walcir
Published: February 2024

This study examines how users perceive Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) as a tool for writing narrative texts, and compares the perceptions of two groups of users: native and non-native English writers. As such, this study aimes to answer the following questions: (1) How do English writers perceive the use of ASR as a writing tool?; and (2) How do native and non-native English writers’ perceptions compare in terms of using ASR as a writing tool? To answer these questions, we employed the Technology Acceptance Model 2 (TAM2) to investigate 60 participants’ perceptions of utilizing ASR for producing narrative texts. Our findings from analyzing seven components of TAM2 show that writers express a positive attitude towards utilizing ASR as a tool for composing texts. Our findings also indicate no noticeable differences between how native and non-native English writers perceive the usefulness of ASR for creating texts. This is contrary to our hypothesis that native speakers, owing to their more advanced pronunciation skills in English, might have a more favorable attitude towards using ASR.
Resourceful approaches in CALL for less-commonly taught languages (LCTLs): Case studies on Icelandic, Irish, and Nawat
Authors: Bédi Branislav , O’Toole Jane , Ward Monica
Published: February 2024

This article explores challenges in supporting Less-Commonly Taught Languages (LCTLs) both in and outside of traditional classroom settings. The focus here is on three case studies of Icelandic as a second and foreign language (L2), Irish as a second or additional language (L2/ IAL), and Nawat as an endangered language. The linguistic contexts of the featured languages may differ- but all three have common ground in being less digitally resourced. Common practices in Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) have shown that limited access to digital resources not only hampers development of CALL tools but also marginalizes pedagogical efforts in teaching and learning this language. In spite of this, CALL practitioners have shown resilience in adapting existing resources and developing new tools, while involving learners and speakers in collaborative efforts in CALL for LCTLs. Here, we showcase innovative approaches in piloting CALL applications for learning L2 Icelandic, integrating CALL into Irish language pedagogy and practice at English-medium primary level, developing game-based engines for Irish learners, and revisiting CALL resources for the endangered Nawat language. Our examples can offer valuable insights and inspiration to empower other CALL practitioners in supporting LCTL educators and learners, and indigenous and endangered language communities.