bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decreased Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte Ratio in Patients with Vitiligo: National Data Analysis
Authors: Weissmann Sarah , Babyev Amit Shira , Gordon Michal , Golan-Tripto Inbal , Horev Amir
Published: October 2024

Vitiligo is characterized by depigmented skin lesions involving melanocyte defects and immune dysregulation. Haematological markers like neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) have been explored in various skin disorders. Given vitiligo’s proposed pathogenesis, we hypothesized differences in NLR and PLR in vitiligo patients compared to controls. In a national retrospective cohort study (2005–2020) in Israel, blood count data from patients diagnosed with vitiligo (ICD-10 codes) were analysed, excluding patients with recent infections, surgeries, or malignancies. Controls matched for age and sex were selected. Sub-analyses examined age groups, treatment type, and matched controls. Children (n = 3,796) and adults (n = 38,608) with vitiligo showed significant differences in gender distribution, cell counts, and ratios. Vitiligo patients (n = 38,358) exhibited lower NLR, decreased neutrophils and platelets, and increased lymphocytes compared with controls. Non-systemically treated vitiligo patients (n = 33,871) displayed lower NLR and neutrophils compared with matched controls. Systemically treated vitiligo patients (n = 4,487) showed lower NLR, higher PLR, and reduced lymphocytes. Logistic regression identified associations between increased lymphocyte and platelet counts and being systemically treated. This study highlights significant haematological differences in vitiligo patients, emphasizing the potential utility of NLR as an accessible tool for vitiligo assessment. Further investigations are warranted to elucidate the roles of neutrophils and lymphocytes in vitiligo pathogenesis.
Chronic Erythematous Swelling of Unilateral Eyelid: A Quiz
Authors: Chen Yanqing , He Jianzhong , Yang Lu , Ma Han
Published: October 2024

Abstract is missing (Quiz)
The standard posture is a myth: a scoping review
Authors: Barra-López Martin E.
Published: October 2024

Background: The standard posture described in Kendall’s manual is commonly used for postural assessment. However, no bibliographic reference was provided to support its use.
Objective: To identify the original source and the procedure followed for the design of that posture and to compare it with current literature on the subject.
Methods: In accordance with the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews recommendations, PubMed and Scopus were searched using the terms “standing posture”, “plum line,” and “gravity line”. Publications in English, French, German, or Spanish that referred to posture in adults without pathology were included.
Results: Six articles and 3 books were included in the final analysis. An identical posture to that described in Kendall’s manual was identified in an early 19th-century work carried out with the unrealistic objective of maintaining static bipedal standing without muscular support, and including several anatomical misconceptions. Furthermore, the “ideal alignment” described in Kendall’s manual does not correspond to the actual line of gravity, the comfortable posture, or natural postural compensations due to age, gender, or race.
Conclusion: The utilization of this standard to ascertain postural deficiencies is not supported by current evidence and may result in numerous false positives, particularly in the elderly.
Matematikk i PISA 2003–2022: Måling av endringer i et samfunn som endrer seg
Authors: Pettersen Andreas , Kaarstein Hege , Nortvedt Guri A.
Published: October 2024

Formålet med dette kapittelet er å diskutere resultatene fra PISA-undersøkelsene fra 2003 til 2022 i lys av endringer i matematikkfaget og norsk skole i samme periode. Fra 2003 til 2018 var det relativt stabile matematikkresultater, til tross for at den norske skolen i denne perioden var gjennom flere læreplanskifter. Fra 2018 til 2022 var det en stor tilbakegang i de norske PISA-resultatene. Selv om de fleste deltagerlandene opplevde en betydelig tilbakegang i matematikkresultatene i løpet av denne fireårsperioden, var Norge blant landene hvor tilbakegangen var størst. PISA-undersøkelsen gir ikke informasjon om årsaken til endringene i prestasjoner, men den betydelige tilbakegangen på tvers av land kan tyde på at covid-19-pandemien har hatt en stor innvirkning på elevenes læring. Denne antagelsen støttes av at det er nedgang i resultatene til elever på alle ferdighetsnivåer i PISA-undersøkelsen. En mulig forklaring er at elevene under covid-19-pandemien i perioder ikke fikk like god undervisning som de vanligvis får. Spesielt er elever som strever med faglig innhold eller motivasjon for å lære ofte mer sårbare for varierende undervisningskvalitet. Resultatene fra PISA 2022 viser også at det er økning i andelen lavtpresterende elever, til tross for en lang satsing på «tidlig innsats», hvor målet er at alle barn og unge skal oppleve mestring i skolen. Samtidig kan størrelsen på tilbakegangen i resultatene til de norske elevene indikere at det også er andre faktorer, i tillegg til pandemien, som har hatt en innvirkning på elevenes læringssituasjon.
Hvor relevante er PISA-resultatene for matematikkfaget i Norge? – En sammenlikning av matematisk kompetanse i PISA 2022 og LK20
Authors: Pettersen Andreas
Published: October 2024

Når resultatene fra PISA-undersøkelsen blir presentert, stilles det ofte spørsmål om resultatenes relevans for norsk skole. I dette kapittelet presenteres rammeverket for matematikk i PISA 2022, som danner grunnlaget for oppgavene som inngår i undersøkelsen. Kapittelet beskriver også hvilket syn på matematisk kompetanse som kommer til uttrykk i den norske læreplanen (LK20). Videre sammenliknes PISA-rammeverket og LK20 med KOM-rammeverket, et sentralt rammeverk for matematisk kompetanse i forskningslitteraturen. Hensikten med dette er å undersøke i hvilken grad den matematiske kompetansen som beskrives i PISA, og resultatene fra undersøkelsen, er relevant for norsk skole. Sammenlikningen viser at kompetansen som beskrives i PISA-rammeverket, er en viktig del av læreplanen i matematikk, men at enkelte deler av læreplanens beskrivelse av matematisk kompetanse ikke inngår i PISA. Matematikkresultatene fra PISA-undersøkelsen er derfor relevante for norsk skole, men dekker ikke hele matematikkfaget. Sett opp mot tidligere læreplaner har LK20, med innføringen av kjerneelementene, en struktur som gjør at det er en tydeligere sammenheng mellom læreplanen i matematikk og rammeverk for matematisk kompetanse vi finner både i forskningslitteraturen og i PISA.
Succeeding against the odds: Exploring self-beliefs and academic emotions profiles of resilient and non-resilient students
Authors: Radišić Jelena , Pettersen Andreas
Published: October 2024

The chapter focuses on academically resilient students in Norway using PISA 2022 data and relying on the person-centred approach. We investigate self-belief profiles of different student categories and compare profile saturation between academically resilient and non-resilient categories. Further, we explore the characteristics of each self-belief profile, tapping into school, classroom, and family environments. The analyses reveal three distinct belief profiles—positive self-image, underdeveloped and negative self-image profiles—among which the latter can be labelled as the profile at risk. Academically resilient students are found in the positive self-image and underdeveloped profiles. The former is situated within the most favourable school, classroom and family characteristics. When observing the entire study sample, the underdeveloped profile comprises almost two-thirds of the students, leaving room for potential support of these students in developing more favourable belief systems concerning mathematics.
Pedagogiske lederes arbeidsroller
Authors: Bøe Marit , Hognestad Karin
Published: October 2024

Hensikten med denne studien er å få innsikt i den pedagogiske lederens roller på avdelingen gjennom Mintzbergs (2009) rollebeskrivelse for å bidra med ny kunnskap om den pedagogiske lederens roller. Videre er hensikten å stimulere til reflekterende diskusjon og debatt om den pedagogiske lederrollen. Studien tar utgangspunkt i et forklarende sekvensielt mixed methods-design med en nasjonal spørreundersøkelse (n = 575) og seks kvalitative fokusgruppeintervjuer med barnehagelærere som har stilling som pedagogiske ledere. Tre hovedtyper av roller framtrer fra analysen: en som binder sammen god arbeidsflyt og faglig sammenheng; «nervesenter» med lederkontroll; ressursfordeler i spenningen mellom faglige hensyn og medarbeidernes ønsker. Rollene diskuteres før vi konkluderer og løfter fram implikasjoner for praksis og for barnehagelærerutdanningen.
ENGLSIH ABSTRACT
Pedagogical Leaders’ Working Roles
The purpose of this study is to gain insight into the teacher leader’s roles through Mintzberg’s (2009, p. 45) role descriptions and thereby contribute to new knowledge about the teacher leader’s working roles. Furthermore, the study aims to promote reflective discussion and debate about the teacher leadership role. The study uses a mixed methods sequential explanatory design with a national quantitative survey (n = 575) and six qualitative focus interviews with early childhood teachers who have a formal position as leaders. Three main types of roles emerge from the analyses: binds together good workflow and professional coherence; “nerve centre” with leadership control; resource allocation in the tension between professional and personal considerations of staff. The roles are discussed before we conclude and highlight implications for practice and for early childhood teacher education.
Orlistat-Resveratrol Combination Improves Elastography Parameters Over and Above Weight Loss in Overweight/Obese Patients
Authors: KM Win
Published: October 2024

This 12-week, real-world, prospective, multicentre, randomized, controlled trial aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of combining Orlistat and Resveratrol compared to Orlistat alone in individuals with obesity or overweight, with or without metabolic syndrome. Both treatment groups demonstrated significant weight reduction from baseline, with the OrlistatResveratrol (O-R) combination group exhibiting higher weight loss than the Orlistat (O) alone group (-3.31 vs -2.92 Kg). Over 80% of participants in both groups achieved clinically significant weight loss (>5% of baseline weight). Assessment of liver health using Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP) scores indicated a significant reduction in hepatic steatosis in the O-R combination group compared to the O group (∆ -24.78 dB/m vs ∆ -11.78 dB/m), suggesting potential benefits of Resveratrol on liver health. Although the reduction in fibrosis scores was numerically higher in the O-R group, further research is needed to confirm these findings. This combination therapy shows promise in managing metabolic-dysfunction associated steatotic liver diseases (MASLD), warranting further investigation into its long-term efficacy and safety.
Assessing the Impacts of Rebels on Economic Development in Conflict Zone, Kiramu District in Front, Oromia Regional State
Authors: M Tolera
Published: October 2024

This study aims to assess the impacts of rebels on economic development in Kiramu District, Oromia Regional State, and a conflict-prone District in Ethiopia. The study utilizes qualitative research methods, including key person interviews and document analysis, to gather data from the local community, government officials, and other stakeholders. The findings indicate that rebel violence has had a significant negative impact on economic development in the district, including hindering investment, discouraging economic growth, and disrupting economic activities. The lack of security and the risk of violence have created an atmosphere of apprehension and ambiguity, resulting in a dearth of economic opportunities. The displacement of people and the closure of businesses have led to job losses and a decline in income, contributing to poverty and food insecurity in the district. The study also pinpointed the need for conflict resolution and peacebuilding efforts to improve the security situation and create an enabling environment for economic development in the region. It recommends the involvement of local communities, government, and other stakeholders in the peacebuilding process to ensure sustainability and inclusivity.
A Sojourn to the Shores of Justice: Navigating the Labyrinth of DBA Investigations to Protect the Mysteries of Returnees from Low-Income Countries: A Case Study of Uganda
Authors: D Muramuzi
Published: October 2024

This documentary investigation exposes mistreatment and exploitation of Ugandan contractors injured while supporting U.S. military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Under the Defense Base Act (DBA), these workers were entitled to medical benefits and disability compensation if wounded overseas. However, complex bureaucracies and bias against foreign claimants led to systemic denial of their rights. Through legal document analysis, interviews with claimants and experts, and an immersive case study, consistent evidence emerges of local agents extorting funds, opaque processes delaying awards, discriminatory compensation compared to Western contractors, and lack of recourse. The Ugandan government failed to exercise oversight or advocate for citizens entangled in this biased system, allowing rampant abuse and theft by local agents. Thousands of Ugandan families were left devastated, sacrificed in service of American wars abroad without their own government's protection. This study gives voice to an invisible population robbed of dignity and justice after being injured in America's War on Terror. It compels radical reforms guided by empathy to uphold the moral promises owed to marginalized workers endangered in foreign battlefields. This documentary will raise awareness through poignant storytelling and irrefutable facts, engaging both hearts and minds to transform a broken system into one centered on human rights and redemption.
The Human Security-Development Nexus and its Local Articulation in Ethiopia since 1991: The Case of Eastern Wallagga
Authors: M Tolera
Published: October 2024

This research investigates the conflicts between human security and development policies in Eastern Wallagga, Ethiopia. The study employed qualitative research methods such as interviews, focus groups, and observations to gather data from primary and secondary sources. The findings indicate that addressing the underlying causes of conflict, promoting social and economic development, and involving communities in decision-making processes are vital to address human security issues in Eastern Wallagga. Despite attempts to provide humanitarian aid and development assistance, progress has been slow, and more work is required to achieve sustainable and fair growth. The study suggests a tailored approach that considers the complex and interrelated nature of human security and development challenges in the area.
The Truth about Dag Hammarskjold’s Killers
Authors: C Khamala
Published: October 2024

From 1953-1961, Dag Hammarskjöld served as United Nations’ second Secretary General. He pioneered the Responsibility to protect concept. In 2015, Ban Ki-moon the organization’s eighth Secretary-General, instituted Eminent Persons to investigate the circumstances resulting in Hammarskjöld’s tragic death with colleagues accompanying him aboard ill-fated flight SE-BDY.
Rationale behind Juvenile Delinquency in State of Uttar Pradesh in India: An Investigative Study
Authors: K Ridamjeet
Published: October 2024

Juvenile’s rate of involving in crime has drastically increased during last few decades around the world. Inclination of children towards crime is due to many possible reasons such as family background, psychology, society, money, power and miscellaneous petty reasons. Indian criminal justice system is that which usually take action when any offence happened and will wait to happen even if they know about the post crime consequences. Today’s children are the future of tomorrow therefore efforts should be made to amend them from indulging in crime. The current study has been conducted in line to investigate the possible causes of juvenile delinquency and the most prevalent type of crimes among the juveniles of Uttar Pradesh region. Data was collected in year 2020-21 during COVID times from 61 juvenile subjects who either completed their punishments or through RTI. The study was assessed for involvement of juveniles in crime on the basis of gender ratio, age, education status, nuclear or joint family, alcoholism smoking habits, caste, religion, financial status, type of crime etc. The study outcomes reflected that large number of male is involved in crimes than females with maximum count from rural areas than urban places. Hindu’s are more in number than any other religion like Muslims, Sikhs or Christians. Teenagers from Rajput, Baniya, Jaat community juveniles are more indulged than a Scheduled Caste or other backward classes.
Globalization and Proliferations of Small Arms and Light Weapons in Nigeria: The Productive Precursors to the Security Challenges in North-Eastern Nigeria
Authors: NL Oluka , UA Ugboma-Uti , MD Igbini
Published: October 2024

The Nigeria North-East geopolitical zone which comprises of Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba and Yobe States has provided save haven for all forms of insurgents and criminal groups, including Boko Haram, the Islamic States in West African Province (ISWAP), armed banditry, Fulani herdsmen militancy, kidnapping for ransom, cattle rustling and armed robbery. There is also the problem of increased proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) encouraged by the porous nature of the land borders in northern part of the country, yet, the government seem comatose. It is on this premise that this study asserts that Globalization and proliferation of SALW are precursors for the security challenges in North-East, Nigeria. Descriptive analysis was adopted and qualitative method of data collection was utilized in this study. The study finds out that the adversaries of the Cold War protagonists, the defunct Soviet Union (USSR) and United States of America (USA), advanced the progress of SALW proliferation in Nigeria, which in turn favored the terrorist groups in Northern part of the country. Also, there has been relentless onslaught of criminal activities and other overlapping security challenges since the Cold War era in the country ranging from banditry and kidnapping for ransom, insurgency of Boko Haram and Islamic States in West African Province (ISWAP), armed robbery and ritual killings, among others. The study recommends that the peace process in northern Nigeria should be sustained. There should be better border security policy and local policing of the communities in the Nigeria northeast geopolitical zone.
Globalización, cultura y educación
Authors: Piñeiro Fernández Javier , Báez Allende Christian
Published: October 2024

El presente texto pretende llamar la atención acerca de algunas particularidades de la relación entre educación y comunicación, en el contexto de la sociedad globalizada y desde una mirada humanista de inspiración cristiana. Se presentan las principales regularidades encontradas, se hacen consideraciones generales y se ofrece una reflexión desde una comprensión educativo-comunicacional del problema abordado.
Clinical case of a newly spotted electrocardiographic phenomenon in long QT syndrome
Authors:   Federal Scientific and Practical Center for Children and Adolescents of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, Moscow, Russia, Makarov L.M. ,   Russian Medical Academy for Continuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russia, Akopyan A.G. ,   Federal Scientific and Practical Center for Children and Adolescents of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, Moscow, Russia, Zaklyazminskaya E.V. ,   Academician B.V. Petrovskiy Russian Scientific Surgery Center of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia,   Academician N.P. Bochkov Research Center of Medical Genetics (RCMG) of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, Komolyatova V.N. ,   Federal Scientific and Practical Center for Children and Adolescents of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, Moscow, Russia,   Russian Medical Academy for Continuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russia, Islanov I.O. ,   Academician B.V. Petrovskiy Russian Scientific Surgery Center of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, Besportochnyj D.A. ,   Federal Scientific and Practical Center for Children and Adolescents of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, Moscow, Russia
Published: October 2024

Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a disease with a high risk of sudden death in children. Individual prognosis is based on additional, primarily electrocardiological markers. Authors represent a clinical case of a rare variant of electrocardiographic manifestation of LQTS in children that wasn’t described previously. A 6 y/o female patient with LQTS, had no complaints, no syncope or sudden death familial cases. The molecular genetic study revealed a de novo mutation in the SCN5A gene which is typical for the third molecular genetic variant of LQTS (LQT3). Holter monitoring noted “hyperadaptation” of the QT interval (slope QT/RR 0.37 with a norm of up to 0.24). During night sleep, episodes of combined T-wave and QRS complex alternans (AT/AQRS) were detected. This pattern has not been previously described in patients with LQTS. Possible mechanisms and prognostic value for the revealed ECG pattern, issues of treatment of patients with LQT3 are discussed. Conclusion: combined T-wave and QRS complex alternans (AT/AQRS) is a new, previously undescribed ECG phenomenon in patients with LQTS that is highly likely to increase the risk for cardiac events. Thus the “hyperadaptation” of the QT interval may be one of the electrocardiological signs of LQT3.
Development of algorithms for proximal thoracic aortic dilatation diagnostics for pediatric practitioners
Authors:   Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia, Sharykin A.S. ,   Z.A. Bashlyaeva Children’s City Clinical Hospital, Moscow, Russia, Grishkin A.N. ,   Z.A. Bashlyaeva Children’s City Clinical Hospital, Moscow, Russia, Karelina E.V. ,   Z.A. Bashlyaeva Children’s City Clinical Hospital, Moscow, Russia, Zamarayeva D.V. ,   Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia, Telezhnikova N.D. ,   Z.A. Bashlyaeva Children’s City Clinical Hospital, Moscow, Russia
Published: October 2024

Aortic dilation may manifest in childhood subsequently resulting in the formation of an intramural hematoma or dissection. The asymptomatic nature of the disease and the absence of unified echocardiographic algorithms for its detection contribute to its underestimation and the inability to implement timely monitoring of patients. The purpose of this research was to develop algorithms for diagnosing dilation of various parts of the thoracic aorta in children using cardiac ultrasound - echocardiography (ECHO). Materials and methods used: a single-center cross-sectional study had been carried out on the basis of the cardiological department of the Z.A. Bashlyaeva Children’s City Clinical Hospital of the Moscow Department of Healthcare (Moscow, Russia): 11,516 primary ECHO protocols in patients aged 7 and up to 18 y/o, 7.5% (869) of which had records regarding aortic dilation, were identified. 572 with hemodynamically significant CHD were excluded from the study therefore the remaining 297 (76.8% (228) boys) with a median age of 14.2 (11.3; 16.4) y/o were studied for the parameters as follows: internal diameters of the aorta at the level of the sinuses of the Valsalva (SV), sinotubular junction (STJ) and ascending aorta (AAo) in systole. Aortic dilation was defined as a size exceeding 2z at any level, and an aneurysm was defined as exceeding 3z. Results: a total of 116 had a bicuspid aortic valve (BAV), 181 demonstrated a tricuspid valve (TAV) without significant concomitant heart pathology (“idiopathic dilation” (IDAo)). Dilation and AAo aneurysm were more prevalent than in the SV region (73.4% v 28%, р<0.001 and 25.2% v 3.7%, р<0.001, respectively). The presence of BAV was identified as a significant risk factor, in which AAo dilation occurred more frequently than in TAV (1.96 times higher, 95% CI 1.12-3.44, p=0.017) and AAo aneurysm occurred with a 3.07 times higher frequency (95% CI 1.79-5.25 р<0.001). Conclusion: the structure of aortic pathology in children is dominated by AAo dilation. ECHO requires visualization of the entire proximal aorta, not merely the aortic valve and SV that are typically assessed in outpatient practice. Authors represent a diagnostic algorithm and methodological guidelines for assessing the condition of the aorta in children.
Entrepreneurs of the Past and Present in the Perception of Student Youth
Authors: Knysh Natalia A.
Published: October 2024

The research is based on the original data of a sociological survey conducted by the author among students of non-historical specialties of the Dostoevsky Omsk State University in order to determine the knowledge and ideas of student youth about entrepreneurs and entrepreneurship in the history of Russia. The essential characteristics of entrepreneurship in student discourse are revealed. With a low level of knowledge about business people of pre-revolutionary and modern Russia, students demonstrate their positive perception and show interest and desire to learn more about them.
“Tea Case”: From Anthropology of Food to Informal Economic Practices of the 19th Century
Authors: Chernova Irina V.
Published: October 2024

Author, based on published and archival materials, shows what role was played by tea in the life of various strata of Russian society in the 19th century. The main problematic of the work was a combination of approaches of anthropology, history, and economic sociology. An important issue was the informal practices, many of which were related to the violation of existing legislation and built on the close interaction of merchants and peasantry. According to the author, their development was greatly facilitated by the strict state regulation of the tea trade in Russia, combined with the growing demand for tea. The main source for characterizing informal practices was the "Case of counterfeit tea trade" initiated simultaneously in several centers - Moscow, St. Petersburg and Kyakhta - and influencing the further history of tea trade and the system of business relations development. In addition to the analysis of informal practices, the author focuses on the history of distribution and traditions of tea consumption by metropolitan and provincial residents of the 19th century, placing the study in the framework of the study of anthropology of food. Here an important place is given to the socio-economic functions of tea. The published works of the 19th century, archival materials and modern literature help to restore them.
Appearance of Russian Monetary Terminology: “Moneta”
Authors: Serov Vadim V.
Published: October 2024

The word “moneta” came into Russian owing to Peter the Great. This tsar sow the word on large European gold and silver coins, and decided that thereby it did guarantee an international recognition for any national currency. Thereafter in Russia for a long time only large denominations were called “monetae”. Just near 1760 the “moneta” has become an unique designation of any monetary unit regardless of its value and origin. Thus, present study offers the answers to the following questions of Russian history: firstly, where from and why the word “moneta” did appear in Russian; and secondly, how and how long the “moneta” and another words and word combinations, which derived from this word held firm in modern terminology. Reconstruction of these terms' evolution relies on the method of written sources analyze. Available documents, where the special concepts and terms are encountered, were divided into three groups corresponding the height of administrative level of the source, which made this document - upper middle or lower. On each of a levels the terminology developed at a different rate, which depended mainly on a personal factor - the presence of a motivated and authoritative specialist in the minting or in the improvement of the monetary relations' theory. In this case, the completion of the formation of each terminological concept is recorded exclusively in the documents of the highest level (emperors, Senate, and government).
Omsk Military Doctor Pavel K. Levonevsky: Scientific and Public Activities (on the 160th Anniversary of the Birth)
Authors: Gefner Olga V.
Published: October 2024

The article discusses the main milestones of the biography, scientific and social activities of the prominent military doctor Pavel K. Levonevsky (1863-1914), who made a significant contribution to the development of urban healthcare in Omsk in the late 19th - early 20th century. This year marks the 160th anniversary of his birth. The military doctor P.K. Levonevsky came from the nobility of the Kovno province, was educated at the medical faculty of Dorpat University, from which he graduated in 1888. After graduating from the university, he was enrolled in the ranks of the military medical department and sent to serve in Siberia, where he began his medical career at the Omsk military hospital. P.K. Levonevsky was in charge of the surgical department of the hospital. He was a highly qualified general surgeon, operated on patients with diseases of the genitourinary system and digestive organs, gynecological and skin problems, carried out craniotomy, bone implantation. In Omsk, P.K. Levonevsky was actively involved in social and scientific work, joined the Omsk Medical Society, which at that time united the medical community of the city. The doctor sought to share his medical experience with colleagues, actively speaking at meetings of the medical society and demonstrating the results of his work. He made more than 30 reports on topical issues of surgery. P.K. Levonevsky combined his scientific work with pedagogical activity, for a number of years he taught at the Omsk Central Medical Assistant School. P.K. Levonevsky is an outstanding Russian surgeon who made a significant contribution to the development of healthcare and medical science in Omsk. His personality reflected the features characteristic of the best representatives of the intelligentsia of that time - education, diligence, selfless devotion to science, disinterested public service.
A New Book on Historiography and Source Studies of the History of Siberia in the Imperial Period
Authors: Tolochko Anatoly Р.
Published: October 2024

The article reviews the study guide by L.M. Dameshek, I.L. Dameshek, A.A. Ivanov, V.P. Shakherov “Essays on Historiography and Source Studies of the History of Siberia in the Age of Empire (19th - beginning of 20th century)” (Irkutsk, Irkutsk State University Publ., 2022, 319 p.). It is noted that the study guide of Irkutsk historians provides a detailed analysis of the main historiographical concepts of domestic and foreign historiography of the Russian state's peripheral policy in the imperial period. Special attention is paid to the comprehension in the domestic and foreign historiography of such concepts as “center”, “metropolis”, “far reaches”, “periphery”. It is indicated that the authors of the reviewed edition identified the main trends in the study of the history of the Siberian city by domestic and foreign researchers, as well as deeply analyzed their judgments on the problems of criminal and political exile and yasak regime in Siberia. A special section of the study guide describes the Complete Collection of Laws of the Russian Empire as a source for the history of imperial policy in Siberia.
Correlation and regression analysis of unionised ammonia ions, NH3and pH in ornamental fish aquatic environment
Authors:   Electrical Engineering Studies, College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Pulau Pinang, Pulau Pinang, MALAYSIA, Mohamad Robi Fatin Izyani , Ahmad Mohamad Naim , Mohd Zain Nur Syafiqah Nadiah , Sulaiman Mohd Suhaimi , Ishak Khairul Anuar , Abd Rahman Mohamad Faizal
Published: October 2024

Assessing ammonia in water is very important for fish farmers as it is one of the pollutants that may affect the water quality. In water, ammonia can be found either in the form of unionised ammonia NH3 or ionised ammonia NH+4, which contribute to a total ammonia nitrogen (TAN). In assessing the ammonia toxicity, NH3 provides a more accurate measure of toxicity and needs to be monitored consistently, rather than relying solely on TAN. However, the method of measuring NH3 in water can be complex and challenging. Therefore, the ability to determine the correlation between NH3 and other parameter which is easier to be measured (such as pH) is crucial to enable the estimation of NH3. This study was conducted to determine the correlation between NH3 and pH based on the data collected from Redgold Aquatics ornamental fishponds located in Sik, Kedah. The pH was assessed by a commercial measuring device, while the NH3 was calculated using an appropriate mathematical equation that requires the data of pH, TAN, and temperature. The correlation and regression analysis were conducted via the IBM SPSS tool and Microsoft Excel. The result shows that NH3 and pH are highly correlated with regression equation of NH3 = 0.01pH – 0.07. In addition, factors that may affect the total ammonia value have been discussed thoroughly in this work. The analysis of these water quality parameters may assist farmers in estimating the toxic ammonia, NH3 from the known water pH.
Development of fig fruit ripeness classification using convolutional neural network
Authors:   Centre for Electrical Engineering Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Pulau Pinang, 13500 Permatang Pauh, Penang, Malaysia, Abu Bakar Siti Juliana , Musa Hanis Raihana , Osman Mohamed Syazwan , M Abdul Kader Mohamed Mydin , Cahyani Denis Eka , Setumin Samsul
Published: October 2024

This study presents the design and evaluation of a deep convolutional neural network (CNN) model for accurately classifying fig ripeness stages. Traditionally, fruit ripeness classification has been conducted manually, which presents several drawbacks, including heavy reliance on human labor and inconsistencies in determining fruit ripeness. By leveraging advanced deep learning techniques, specifically CNNs, this research aims to automate the fig ripeness classification process. The CNN architecture was developed and trained using MATLAB software, targeting three ripeness categories: ripe, half-ripe, and unripe. The methodology involved pre-processing the fig images and configuring the CNN model with multiple convolutional, batch normalization, and max pooling layers specifically for fig classification tasks. The final CNN model achieved an impressive accuracy rate of 94.44%, significantly surpassing results from previously reported studies. The developed model is a promising tool for automating fig ripeness classification, contributing to advancements in precision agriculture and smart farming technologies.
Integrated value–based project management in the Malaysian construction industry
Authors:   School of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA  Shah Alam, Selangor,Malaysia, Malek Mohd Hilmi , Mat Isa Che Maznah
Published: October 2024

Value Management (VM) is a structured approach to maximising a project’s value by analysing its functions, materials, and costs to meet objectives at the lowest cost without compromising quality, performance, or functionality. In Malaysia’s construction industry, VM has significantly enhanced project outcomes. However, VM faces challenges despite its benefits due to limited awareness, knowledge barriers, and a gap between theory and practice. Although many practitioners recognise VM’s advantages, there remains a need for a deeper understanding of the VM process and how to apply necessary project management (PM) activities for project success. This study addresses the gap in understanding how PM activities can be integrated with VM to enhance project performance in the Malaysian construction industry. PM involves planning, organising, and controlling resources to achieve specific goals within set constraints, using knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques to successfully execute projects and deliver desired outcomes. The study employed a qualitative method, including interviews with eleven professionals and practitioners in Malaysia’s construction industry, to identify PM activities that can be incorporated into the VM process. Thematic analysis using Atlas.ti revealed that PM and VM share similar objectives in ensuring project performance. The study illustrates the benefits of incorporating PM operations into VM by highlighting the relationships between PM and VM, such as better collaboration, better resource management, and improved project outcomes. By providing practitioners with a framework to apply PM techniques within the VM process, our findings contribute to the innovation of VM concepts, enhancing project performance, and bridging the theory-practice gap in the Malaysian construction sector.
Indonesia 2023: Looming elections and domestic uncertainty, but increasing regional, international and economic importance
Authors: Lundry Chris
Published: October 2024

The elections of 2024 loom large over Indonesia in 2023, with serious implications for the future of Indonesian democracy. Domestically, there remain issues that affect the depth of its democracy including the roles of political Islam and the military, and corruption remains an issue. Indonesia continues to play a significant role regionally and internationally, although it retains ties to both the United States (and the West) and China – seemingly hedging its bets. Its economy has recovered from the shock of the COVID-19 slowdown and is growing rapidly.
Responses to orphanhood: the intellectual formation of Griselda Álvarez (1913-1956)
Authors: Ramírez Vuelvas Carlos
Published: October 2024

On this work, the author proposes that the theory of language change is useful on the study of Hispanic Literature, where we can talk about a hypothetical theory of literary change. To prove this, this text is divided into three sections. Firstly, the author focuses on the concept of language change. After that, verifies how linguistics has used literature to justify the existence of language change, and finally proposes the application of this theory in the studies of Hispanic Literatures, mainly by two vias: a) the analogy between the theory of language change and a hypothetical theory of literary change, and b) the stablished relationship among some aspects of the theory of language change and its links with textual criticism. Keywords: sociocritical; poetics; post revolution; feminism; half acentury
Application of the theory of linguistic change to studies of Hispanic literature
Authors: Altamirano Meza Gerardo Román
Published: October 2024

"On this work, the author proposes that the theory of language change is useful on the study of Hispanic Literature, where we can talk about a hypothetical theory of literary change. To prove this, this text is divided into three sections. Firstly, the author focuses on the concept of language change. After that, verifies how linguistics has usedliterature to justify the existence of language change, and finally proposes the application of this theory in the studies of Hispanic Literatures, mainly by two vias: a) the analogy between the theory of language change and a hypothetical theory of literary change, and b) the stablished relationship among some aspects of the theory of language change and its links with textual criticism. Keywords: literature; comparative literature; history of ideas; linguistics; history of literature"
Metafiction on Twitter: Los mil trinos y un trino by Héctor Abad
Authors: Verdín Padilla Paulo César
Published: October 2024

"The purpose of this article is to analyze the metafictional aspects of Colombian author Hector Abad’s project to write a novel on twitter: Los mil trinos y un trino (2010a). The study of the metafiction consisted on identifying and explaining the literary tropes that made it possible for the author to generate a self-referential type of fiction. The elements examined included intertextuality, author and narrator categories, metalepsis and the construction processes of a novel explained by the narrative project itself. The results of the analysis were that the use of metafiction was not only limited to the different diegetic planes, but in terms of co-references, it also alluded to the external world: the users who interact with their accounts, the digital platform and, in general, the virtual environment that became part of this mode of writing.Keywords: author; hypertext; metalepsis; narrator; novel; twitterature"
Hispanophilia and hispanophobia in the American imagination: the Spain of the Cid, from epic virility to decadence
Authors: Cortijo Ocaña Antonio
Published: October 2024

"During a period of around 100 years, the American audience was exposed to the history of Mio Cid from several points of view. The world of The Alhambra:A Series of Tales and Sketches of the Moors and Spaniards by Washington Irving provided in 1832 an idealized version of this period of Spanish history. This was followed by the more nuanced visions of the History of the Reign of Ferdinand and Isabella by William Prescott in 1837 and George Ticknor’s History of Spanish Literature in 1849. A new vision of the Cidian imaginary was that of sculptor Anna Hyatt in several of her famous statues devoted to El Cid in the 1920s in Balboa Park, San Diego, or in the Hispanic Society of New York. Of course, she was influenced in her choice of topic by her husband Archie Huntington, the founder in 1904 of the Hispanic Society. The corollary to this representation of Cidian history came in 1961 with the epic film The Cid, greatly acclaimed by critics and audiences.Keywords: Mio Çid Ruy Díaz;Washington Irving; George Ticknor; Prescott; Anna Hyatt"
Transformation and development of simulation-based education and child first aid skills training
Authors: Mujlli Gadah , Alsalamah Ibrahim , Alghosen Abdulmajeed , Alenazi Kareemah , Alwazzan Abrar , Alqahtani Najd Fahad , Al-Dawoud Adwa Turki , Al-Juhaymi Duaa Abdulaziz , Al-Otaibi Maha , Alobaid Abdulhakeem
Published: October 2024

Background: Simulation-based medical education is a complex learning methodology in different fields. Exposing children to this teaching method is uncommon as it is designed for adult learning. This study aimed to develop and implement simulation-based education in first aid training of children and investigate the emotions of children in post-simulation scenarios that replicate emergency situations. Methods: This was a phenomenological qualitative research study. The participants attended the modified “Little Doctor” course that aims to train children in first aid and, subsequently, completed simulation scenarios. The children attended focus groups and were asked about their experiences of the course and how they felt during the simulation scenarios. Results: 12 children (Age 8–11 years old) attended the course, and 10 completed the simulation scenarios and focus groups. The major theme derived from was the simulation experience’s effect, which was divided into two subthemes: the emotion caused by—and the behavioral response to—the simulation. The analysis revealed shock and surprise toward the environment of the simulation event and the victim. The behaviors expressed during the simulation scenarios ranged from skill application and empathy to recall and teamwork. Conclusions: Simulation scenarios were successfully implemented during the first-aid training course. Although participants reported mixed feelings regarding the experience, they expressed confidence in their ability to perform real-life skills.
The impact of LMS-based mechanics course on the creativity of prospective physics teachers in the post-pandemic era: A quasi-experimental study
Authors: Gunawan G. , Harjono Ahmad , Suranti Ni Made Yeni , Herayanti Lovy , Nisrina Nina
Published: October 2024

This quasi-experimental study examined the effect of a mechanics course delivered through a Learning Management System (LMS) on the creativity of prospective physics teachers at a teacher training college in Mataram, Indonesia. The study was conducted in the post-pandemic era. Using a pretest-posttest one-group design, the researchers evaluated changes in creativity across three domains: figural, numeric, and verbal. The results showed significant improvements in overall creativity, with the most critical gains observed in the figural domain. Further analysis revealed that fluency was the creative indicator with the most enhancement. In contrast, other indicators displayed varying degrees of improvement. These findings highlight the potential of LMS-based instruction in fostering creativity among future physics educators, particularly in the figural, numeric, and verbal domains. This study adds to the growing body of evidence supporting technology integration into teacher education, especially during times of crisis. Future research should explore more targeted instructional strategies within LMS environments and utilize comprehensive creativity assessment methods further to enhance creative learning experiences for prospective physics teachers.
Spider: La alucinación como resorte de lo real
Authors: Alonso Cano Oriol
Published: October 2024

El objetivo de este artículo es mostrar la manera en que Cronenberg aborda la cuestión de lo alucinatorio, en el caso particular de Spider, así como situarla en el conjunto de su obra. A partir de una analítica comparada entre la novela de McGrath y la adaptación de Cronenberg, se observará el papel de la alucinación en ambas propuestas focalizando el hecho de que esta va más allá de ser un simple efecto de la sintomatología esquizofrénica. A su vez, se analizará de qué manera Spider, a partir del eje alucinatorio, se convertirá en la culminación de la serie iniciada en Videodrome, y continuada posteriormente por Dead Ringers, Naked Lunch y eXistenZ y que muestra de qué manera la ontología de Cronenberg está gestada por la indefinición de la realidad.
Cronenberg Adapts (Us to) McLuhan: Watching "Videodrome", Reading "Understanding Media"
Authors: Bilmes Leonid
Published: October 2024

This article argues that Videodrome and the film’s novelization can both be said to adapt McLuhan’s account of television in Understanding Media. Cronenberg’s film adopts McLuhan’s style of thought by rendering figurative language as visceral cinematic image; Martin’s novelization, in turn, uses the literary device of ekphrasis to depict the protagonist’s TV-possessed inner world. Videodrome the film and Videodrome the novel express, respectively, the cinematic imaging and the synesthetic verbal description of media as «the extensions of man». The essay concludes that attending to the ways in which both the film and the novel adapt McLuhan’s writing not only attests to the intermedial nature of the interpretive act, but helps delineate the contours of the contemporary media landscape.
Máscaras y sombras. La construcción del sí-mismo en Un método peligroso (2011)
Authors: González Hernández Guillermo
Published: October 2024

Un método peligroso (2011) es un drama histórico dirigido por David Cronenberg sobre la relación entre algunos de los primeros proponentes del psicoanálisis: Carl G. Jung, Sigmund Freud y Sabina Spielrein. Este artículo trata la obra como un estudio de personajes, basado en varios elementos de la psicología analítica fundada por Jung. Se interpreta la narrativa del filme como parte del proceso de «individuación» sobre el que escribió, en los que el individuo debe contender con arquetipos como «la persona», «la sombra», «el ánima» o «el padre». Un método peligroso sirve como una dramatización de la crisis personal de Jung entre 1904 y 1913, y cómo resultó crucial para sus teorías posteriores.