bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Сравнительный анализ состава кислотных компонентов в растительных маслах
Authors: Фомичева Т. И. , Колужникова Е. В.
Published: December 2024

В качестве предмета сравнения выбраны образцы масел авокадо и семян тыквы, которые при различиях в способах получения и происхождения имеют схожий состав. Целью исследования является сравнение состава жирных кислот масел авокадо и семян тыквы для оценки преимуществ и недостатков их использования в качестве биологически активных веществ для внутреннего и наружного применения. Масла характеризуются высоким содержанием жирных кислот различного химического состава как насыщенных, так и ненасыщенных. В статье имеется обзор сведений об авокадо и тыкве на основе литературных источников, содержится информация о составе масел авокадо и тыквенного. Хроматографический метод анализа позволяет оценить количественные соотношения исследуемых для сравнения компонентов. Установлено, что содержание стеариновой, пальмитиновой и миристиновой В качестве предмета сравнения выбраны образцы масел авокадо и семян тыквы, которые при различиях в способах получения и происхождения имеют схожий состав. Целью исследования является сравнение состава жирных кислот масел авокадо и семян тыквы для оценки преимуществ и недостатков их использования в качестве биологически активных веществ для внутреннего и наружного применения. Масла характеризуются высоким содержанием жирных кислот различного химического состава как насыщенных, так и ненасыщенных. В статье имеется обзор сведений об авокадо и тыкве на основе литературных источников, содержится информация о составе масел авокадо и тыквенного. Хроматографический метод анализа позволяет оценить количественные соотношения исследуемых для сравнения компонентов. Установлено, что содержание стеариновой, пальмитиновой и миристиновой

Avocado and pumpkin seed oils have different origin and methods of production and are characterized by similar content. The purpose of the study is the fatty acids composition research in order to evaluate their advantages and disadvantages and beneficial qualities of this oil’s usage as biologically active additives and the part of cosmetic. The oils are characterized by a high content of fatty acids of various types, both saturated and unsaturated. In the article the overview of information about avocado and pumpkin origin and production based on literary sources is included, the composition of avocado and pumpkin oils is described. The chromatographic method of analysis allows to evaluate the quantitative ratios of the components. The content of stearic, palmitic and myristic (fatty) acids was determined is 2 times higher in pumpkin seed oil compared to avocado oil, it means the advantages of avocado oil as a low-calorie product. The analysis revealed especially high content of «essential» unsaturated fatty acids: in pumpkin seed oil it is 80%, in avocado oil it is 87%. Therefore, these oils show the expediency of using as a therapeutic agent for external and internal use particularly to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Petrarch and his “Canzoniere” in the Russian culture of the 20th century
Authors:   Pushkin Leningrad State University, Yakushkina Tatiana V.
Published: December 2024

The subject and material of research is the lyrical heritage of Petrarch in Russian culture of the 20th century, from the late 1890s to the early 1990s. While the pre-revolutionary Petrarch has been researched extensively, the Soviet, despite the significance of the achieved results, remains almost unexamined. Despite the ideological an aesthetic discrepancy between the poets of the Russian Silver Age and those of the Soviet school of translation, there is a clear continuity between the pre revolutionary and Soviet images of Petrarch. If we consider translations of Petrarch not in isolation, but as part of the general process of the culture’s appeal to his name, we should admit: throughout the 20th century, Petrarch’s reception in Russia is subordinated to one principle which is science popularization. Translations of Vyach. Ivanov demonstrate the search by Russian modernism for its historical origins, their inclusion in the debate about the “new art”. Ivanov’s translations, taken as part of Gershenzon’s edition of Petrarch and in the context of the preceding scientific publications, go beyond the actual literary pursuits, become part of the educational trend. At the same time, throughout the 20th century Petrarch in Russia acts not only as an object of educational aspirations, but also as an object of selfknowledge. According to the internal processes of the Russian society development, Petrarch was interpreted, firstly, as an individualist, deepened in himself and in introspection; then, as a writer breaking off with the old in the name of the new; finally, as a humanist-intellectual who realizes the wealth of his inner world. These three interpretations corresponded with the scientific approaches to Petrarch in different periods of the 20th century, they also determined three images of the Russian Petrarch in the 20th century.
Left-dislocated topic in West Caucasian languages
Authors:   HSE University, Lander Yury A. , Bagirokova Irina G. ,   Institute of Linguistics of the Russian Academy of Sciences,   HSE University, Unarokova Shamset Sh. ,   Adyghe State University
Published: December 2024

This paper considers dislocated topics in living West Caucasian (Abkhaz-Adyghe) languages, i. e. in West Circassian, Kabardian, Abkhaz, and Abaza. Despite the fact that previous studies on morphosyntactic properties of the representatives of this language family denied the existence of dedicated topic constructions in any of them, the results of the present study allow us to assert that there are at least two grammaticalized patterns that introduce topics without integrating them into the subsequent related clause. The first construction containing simple dislocated topics either leaves them unmarked or (in West Circassian and Kabardian) marks them with the absolutive case. The second construction marks the dislocated topic or a combination of the topic with a copula with a conditional marker. These two strategies are typologically widespread and are attested in other — indigenous Caucasian and Turkic — languages of the area. However, even though both patterns under consideration can be described as left dislocation, they differ in terms of their distribution. In particular, only the construction marking the topic with a conditional suffix allows indefinite and quantified topics (which are in general unexpected in such constructions). Besides, we discuss specific constructions in which the topic expression defines the situation mentioned further (also referred to as “predicate clefts” and “predicate topicalization” in the literature). While in most cases described so far this phenomenon involves the obligatory repetition of the predicate (or its replacement with a proform in the clause), at least West Circassian does not show any requirement of this kind. The data include both examples retrieved from corpora (for West Circassian, Kabardian and Abaza) and examples obtained through elicitation.
Demanda hídrica da cultura do meloeiro de acordo com cenários climatológicos utilizando o software cropwat 8.0
Authors:   , Martins Danielle da Silva Oliveira
Published: December 2024

O melão produzido no Polo Jaguaribe-Açu abastece o mercado brasileiro durante o ano todo, além do mercado internacional, principalmente, na entressafra da Espanha. No entanto, os custos com insumos e irrigação são elevados, o que torna a busca de soluções, como o uso de modelos de simulação, uma opção viável. Esses modelos permitem o conhecimento da necessidade hídrica antecipadamente e das respostas de rendimento através de ferramentas num curto prazo e a baixo custo, auxiliando na tomada de decisão do manejo a ser adotado, além da análise da melhor época de plantio. O objetivo da pesquisa foi estimar, através de simulações ano a ano de uma série histórica de 31 anos (1978 a 2008), as necessidades hídricas da cultura do meloeiro dos tipos Inodoros e Aromáticos cultivados nas condições edafoclimáticas de Mossoró – RN, para três épocas de semeadura, na qual foi analisada a interferência de cinco cenários climáticos na determinação da época ideal de cultivo, utilizando como ferramenta o programa CROPWAT – FAO. Para a determinação da necessidade hídrica, optou-se pela metodologia proposta pelo Boletim FAO nº 56. A série histórica foi caracterizada em cinco cenários, de acordo com a precipitação pluviométrica anual em: Muito Seco (MS) até 365,06 mm; Seco (S) de 365,07 a 551,70 mm; Normal (N) de 551,71 a 885,00 mm; Chuvoso (C) de 885,01 a 1.046,53 mm e Muito Chuvoso (MC) acima de 1.046,53 mm. Os ciclos de cultivos para os dois tipos de meloeiros iniciaram em: 10/junho (C-01); 10/setembro (C-02) e 10/outubro (C-03), para o solo do tipo franco argiloarenoso. O cultivo no ciclo C-01 para anos chuvosos apresentou os melhores valores de temperatura máxima e mínima exigidos pelo meloeiro. A variação da temperatura máxima ao longo de um ciclo atingiu mais de 10 ºC. O cultivo no C-01 ocorreu em condições desfavoráveis ao meloeiro quando em cenário C a MC, onde a umidade relativa do ar ultrapassou 80%, enquanto no C-02 constatou-se como mais favorável à cultura do meloeiro, seguido do C-03, onde os valores obtidos de Evapotranspiração da cultura e Necessidades de irrigação acumulados atendem aos requeridos pela cultura, indicando que as simulações com o CROPWAT respondem positivamente à demanda hídrica do meloeiro, permitindo uma visão antecipada de acordo com o cenário climático anual
Propriedades físico-hídricas, mecânicas e químicas de um solo cultivado com meloeiro no Semiárido Potiguar
Authors:   , Basílio Flávio de Oliveira
Published: December 2024

As caraterísticas físicas, químicas e mecânicas do solo são modificadas

significativamente pelo seu manejo. Objetivou-se com o presente trabalho avaliar a fertilidade

e a resistência mecânica do solo à penetração das raízes em duas áreas, uma cultivada com

meloeiro e outra de mata nativa (Testemunha). As coletas foram realizadas nas duas áreas

medindo 1,0 hectare. No campo os pontos foram georreferenciados e as amostras de solo foram

coletadas nas profundidades de 0-10, 10-20, 20-30 e 30-40 cm. Foram analisados os seguintes

atributos físicos (textura, estrutura, densidade do solo e de partículas e porosidade), químicos

(pH, matéria orgânica do solo, condutividade elétrica, teores de fósforo, potássio, cálcio,

magnésio e sódio, acidez trocável, capacidade de troca de cátions e percentagem de sódio

trocável) e mecânicos (resistência média do solo à penetração). As leituras de resistência média

de solo a penetração foram obtidas com auxílio de um penetrômetro eletrônico. Na área

cultivada com melão as leituras foram realizadas em malha não regular de 87 pontos e na área

de mata nativa a amostragem foi realizada em malha não regular de 8 pontos. Foram

empregadas técnicas de geoestatistica para ajuste de semivariograma no modelo exponencial,

interpolação de dados e elaboração de mapas de isovalores para cada variável. Os resultados

médios obtidos na análise química mostraram a lixiviação de sais. É provável que a adubação

tenha contribuído com aumento do pH do solo. Sobre a análise do índice de cone nas duas

áreas configuraram compactação de média a moderada, ficando evidente que a mecanização

não está compactando o solo
Bridges in Nepal: Enhancing Connectivity and Economic Development
Authors: Bhandari Sahadev Bahadur , Shahi Padma Bahadur , Sharma Rajendra Raj , Sharma Keshab Kumar
Published: December 2024

Background

Nepal, known for its stunning mountainous landscape, is intersected by approximately 6,000 rivers. This unique geography necessitates the construction of numerous bridges, forming an extensive road network, including foot trails, which facilitate social interaction, cultural exchange, and economic growth. These structures connect a diverse population of over 125 ethnic groups, who speak 123 different dialects, to essential services, markets, and opportunities.

Objectives

This study explores the historical background of bridge construction in Nepal, presents the current status of bridges, and examines their impact on economic development. Additionally, it provides recommendations to support implementation agencies in addressing the challenges faced in bridge construction and proposes potential solutions.

Material and Methods

The study is based on a review of government documents, peer-reviewed articles, and primary data from bridge construction projects to provide insights into the history, current status, and role of bridges in enhancing connectivity and economic growth.

Results

The construction of bridges alongside roads and trails in Nepal has substantially contributed to economic development and increased mobility, facilitating the smooth movement of people and goods across the country. This study provides a detailed account of the chronological development of bridges in Nepal and the subsequent economic growth enabled by improved mobility. It also addresses the improvements still required. To date, 1,656 bridges have been constructed on national highways, 435 on provincial roads, and 402 on local roads by the Department of Roads, Provincial Governments, and Local bodies on national highways, provincial roads, and local roads, respectively. Additionally, more than 10,000 trail bridges have been constructed along various trails.

Conclusion

The bridges, including trail bridges, have played a vital role in enhancing connectivity and fostering economic development in Nepal.
“You get the money after waiting for long and you get less than you anticipated”: Experiences of persons with disabilities in accessing the district special grant in Uganda
Authors: Ojok Patrick , Mukasa Joseph
Published: December 2024

In 2010, Uganda scrapped an ambitious tax incentive provision in the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2006 that had allowed employers to claim up to 15% tax reduction in annual income provided that they hired at least 10 persons with disabilities at any job level. As though it were a trade-off, the 15% tax incentive was replaced with the special grant, a grant intended for persons with disabilities organized in small groups to generate income. The special grant started off as a pilot in 48 districts before it was rolled out nationally. Since 2019, the responsible ministry has been implementing two models of the special grant: the district special grant and the national special grant. This study focused on the district special grant, and primarily explored the experiences of persons with disabilities in accessing and utilizing the district special grant, and the difference the grant is making. The study adopted a qualitative research approach using interviews and focus group discussions to collect data from 10 beneficiary groups drawn from 6 districts. Focus group discussions were conducted with special grant beneficiary groups while district officials responsible for the special grant and disability union representatives were individually interviewed. Data were analyzed using template coding and thematic analysis. Study findings revealed limited access to the district grant, dismal grant amounts, significant deviations from implementation guidelines, operational dilemmas and overlooking disability related expenses like the costs for moving with a personal assistant. Nonetheless, participants commended the special grant for enabling them to build social networks, gain self-confidence and start small income generating activities. The small grant amount disbursed to big group size groups that lack business start-up skills did not support impactful business initiatives. The study revealed a strong evidence from individual grants as opposed to a group grants for starting income generating activities. The ministry of gender should consider remodeling the special grant into a social protection scheme that awards small grants to individual income generating activities.
Rights of People with Disabilities in the Qur'an and Hadith from the Perspective of Fiqh Awlawiyyat
Authors: Kudhori Muhammad , Masruri Ulin Niam , Azizah Ma’rufatul , El-Hanim Syarifah
Published: December 2024

Disabled groups still often receive discriminatory treatment in society. Discriminatory treatment occurs in various sectors, such as education and the world of work. In fact, as humans created by Allah Swt. Disabled groups should also have the same rights as humans in general. This research seeks to reveal the rights of disabled groups in the Al-Qur'an and the Hadith of the Prophet saw. awlawiyyāt fiqh perspective. This research is qualitative research that utilizes library sources (library research) with content analysis and descriptive-analytical analysis as the data analysis method. The results of this research show that the rights of disabled groups in the Al-Qur'an and Hadith include all the rights that humans in general have. In the review of awlawiyyāt jurisprudence, these rights must receive priority in service, because disabled groups need these rights more than humans in general. Implementation of the rights of persons with disabilities in the awlawiyyāt fiqh review is carried out by prioritizing services for them by providing facilities that can support their lives better.
Travel Satisfaction of Persons with Disabilities in Metropolitan Indonesia: A Case of Jakarta
Authors: Fitri Husnul , Lesmawati Diah Rini
Published: December 2024

Many studies have been conducted on travel satisfaction with public transportation in various countries. However, no studies have reached inclusive groups such as persons with disabilities, although most of them depend on public transportation. Knowledge about travel satisfaction of persons with disabilities can be a reference for improving public transportation services that are adequate to the mobility needs of persons with disabilities. Therefore, this study aims to determine the travel satisfaction of persons with disabilities regarding public transportation in Jakarta using the Satisfaction to Travel (STS) measurement scale. The results of this study show not only the satisfaction of persons with disabilities with public transportation but also the influence of duration factors and the number of variations in transportation modes used.
Quality of Color, Moisture Content, Water Activity and pH Marshmallow Gelatin Candy with Addition of Skim Milk
Authors: Amertaningtyas Dedes , Kurniawan Wahid , Al Awwaly Khothibul Umam , Evanuarini Herly , Widyastuti Eny Sri , Masyithoh Dewi
Published: December 2024

Skim milk is added to marshmallows to improve their quality because skim contains protein. This study analyzed the effect of adding skim milk to marshmallow candy made from gelatin in terms of color quality (L, a*, b*), moisture content, water activity (Aw), and pH. The research materials used were gelatin, skim milk powder and sugar. This study was a laboratory experiment a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) method consisting of 3 treatments and 4 replications P0 (0% skim milk and 100% water), P1 (25% skim milk and 75% water), and P2 (50% skim milk and 50% water). The data obtained were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and if there was a significant difference, it continued with Duncan's Multiple Range Test (DMRT). The addition of skim milk to marshmallow candy resulted in a highly significant difference (p < 0.01) in moisture content and pH, a significant difference (p < 0.05) in color (L), and no significant difference (p > 0.05) in color (a*, b*), and water activity (Aw). The average value of the L color parameters of marshmallow candy was 83.77-86.90; a* color 2.07-2.40; b* color 10.60-12.10; moisture content 21.04-23.00%; water activity 0.79-0.80 and pH 6.09-6.39. The addition of 25% skim milk is the best treatment for making marshmallows based on beef bone gelatin with the addition of skim milk.
Effects of Tea (Camellia sinensis) Addition on Soaking Salted Eggs of Organoleptic Quality, Protein Content, Fat Content, and Ash Content
Authors: Ardhi Ferdyansyah Prasetya , Amertaningtyas Dedes , Wati Anif Mukaromah , Saleha Rischa Amalia
Published: December 2024

This research aimed to determine the effect of tea essence on the organoleptic quality, protein content, fat content, and ash content of salted eggs. The research material consisted of salted eggs with different percentages of tea essence added tea essence. The method used an experiment with 4 treatments and 4 replications. The treatments given were (P1) 25%, (P2) 50% and (P3) 75% with the addition of tea essence in different percentages and without the addition of tea essence (P0) as a control treatment. The variables measured include organoleptic quality, fat content, protein content and ash content. Data were analyzed using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). The results showed that the addition of tea essence did not have a significantly different effect (p > 0.05) on the fat content, protein content, ash content, taste, aroma and color of salted eggs. Average fat content value of 10.91-10.37%, protein content of 12.05-12.43%, ash content of 1.62-1.54%, taste score of 3.75-3.65, aroma score of 3.50-3.40, and color score of 3.60-3.90. It can be concluded that the best treatment was obtained by adding 25% tea essence with an ash content value of 2.03%, a fat content of 11.40%, aroma score of 3.55, and the best treatment was obtained by   adding 75% tea essence with a protein content value of 12.43%, a color score of 3.90, and taste score of 3.75.
Impact of perceived price, appearance, and brand attachment on future purchase intentions: A case study of OTOP and SME products in Thailand
Authors:   College of Innovation and Management, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Bangkok, Thailand, Sriviboon Chutikarn , Bousri Atidtaya ,   College of Innovation and Management, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Bangkok, Thailand, Santaweesuk Watsamon ,   College of Innovation and Management, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Bangkok, Thailand
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the impact of perceived price, perceived appearance, and brand attachment on future purchase intentions for One Tambon One Product (OTOP) and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SME) products. This study investigates the integration of cultural identity into creative product development, using Water Hyacinth as a central theme, under the slogan "Do Less, Get More." It employs a quantitative research approach to explore how cultural identity can be a source of innovation and differentiation in product design. Data were collected via questionnaires from 335 customers in Phayao Province and analyzed using a multilevel structural equation model. The results indicate that perceived price, appearance, and brand attachment significantly influence purchase intentions, supported by strong model fit indices (e.g., χ² = 313.909, CFI = 0.93, RMSEA = 0.06). These findings underscore the importance of these factors in shaping consumer behavior and offer insights for culturally driven product development and marketing strategies.
Developing and Evaluating a Bundled Digital Tool to Improve Complex Care and Self-management of Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Protocol for a Hybrid Effectiveness-Implementation Study (Preprint)
Authors: Chappell Kaitlyn Delaney , Fox Melissa , Armstrong Thomas Scott , Ajibulu Lekan , Seow Cynthia H. , Montano-Loza Aldo , Kroeker Karen I. , Kaplan Gil , Novak Kerri , Ma Christopher , Ingram Richard , Hoentjen Frank , Halloran Brendan , Peerani Farhad , Kao Dina , Wong Karen
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) require comprehensive care to address the physical and psychosocial burden of their disease. The demand for IBD care often exceeds availability, resulting in delayed access and suboptimal management. Self-management tools can help address this gap by empowering patients to be more engaged in managing their disease.

OBJECTIVE

To design and implement a bundled digital health tool, MyIBDToolkit, to improve the quality of care and self-management for patients with IBD.

METHODS

A bundled digital health tool, MyIBDToolkit, will be integrated into our provincial electronic health record system. Using a type 2 hybrid effectiveness-implementation design, we will evaluate the effect of MyIBDToolkit on reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance. We will use healthcare administrative records to assess outcomes in these five areas, including healthcare utilization and access to IBD care. We aim to reach 10,000 patients across Alberta, Canada, within 3 years.

RESULTS

In preparation for the pilot launch, we have identified key stakeholders and developed strategies to assess their readiness for MyIBDToolkit. We are also collecting mixed-methods data from patients to explore potential barriers and facilitators to using MyIBDToolkit. The first phase of MyIBDToolkit’s launched in October 2024.

CONCLUSIONS

MyIBDToolkit can potentially reduce the burden of IBD on patients, providers, and the healthcare system. By evaluating the effectiveness and the implementation of MyIBDToolkit, we aim to achieve immediate and sustained improvements to IBD care in Alberta.
СИНХРОНИЗАЦИЯ БАЗОВЫХ СТАНЦИЙ В КОМПЛЕКСИРОВАННОЙ НАВИГАЦИОННО-СВЯЗНОЙ СИСТЕМЕ «КОНСУЛ-Р»
Authors: Старовойтов Е. , Скиба Е. , Синильщиков И. , Алпатов А.
Published: December 2024

Обеспечение технологического суверенитета и непрерывного
функционирования объектов критической инфраструктуры России
требует создания в кратчайшие сроки новых технических систем,
позволяющих закрыть бреши, вызванные потерей доступа к иностранным
технологиям и решениям на их базе. Здесь отдельно следует выделить
сферу навигации и связи, так как работа современных промышленных
предприятий, функционирование логистических цепочек, транспортных
сетей, экстренных служб невозможна без оперативного обмена данными
между разнесенными абонентами и быстрого получения координатной
информации. При решении этих задач предлагается использовать
комплексированную навигационно-связную систему «КОНСУЛ-Р».
Pactum de Retrovendendo y Lex Commissoria en la compraventa. De Roma al Código Civil y Comercial de la Nación Argentina = Pactum de Retrovendendo and Lex Commissoria in the contract of sale. From Rome to Civil and Commercial Code of Argentina
Authors: Álvarez Mirta Beatriz
Published: December 2024

En el presente trabajo se analizarán dos pactos accesorios al contrato de compraventa en el Derecho Romano. Tratándose de un contrato consensual, las partes pueden introducir los pactos que deseen. Analizaremos únicamente dos que aparecen contemplados expresamente en la compilación justinianea y que benefician al vendedor: el pacto de retroventa y el pacto comisorio. En una segunda parte, se hará referencia a la recepción de estos dos pactos accesorios en el Código Civil de Vélez Sársfield, y las modificaciones introducidas por la Ley 17.711. Seguidamente se analizará su regulación en el Código Civil y Comercial de la Nación Argentina.
Abstract: In the present work we will analize two accessory pacts in the contract of sale in Roman Law. The contract of sale is a consensual contract, therefore, the parties can introduce any pact they wish. We will only analize two pacts which are regulated in the Justinian compilation, in behalf of the seller: pactum de retrovendendo and lex comissoria. In the second part of this article, we will refer to the reception of these two accessory pacts in the Civil Code of Vélez Sársfield and the modifications introduced by the Law 17.711. Then, we will refer to the regulations in the Civil and Commercial Code of Argentina.
Primary and revision artificial urinary sphincter for stress urinary incontinence post-radical prostatectomy: a surgery with high rewards but high risks?
Authors: Roth Ingunn , Hjelle Karin Margrethe , Johansen Charlotte Josefine , Moen Christian Arvei , Beisland Christian , Juliebø-Jones Patrick
Published: December 2024

Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) implantation in men with stress urinary incontinence post-radical prostatectomy and the complication burden with a focus on identifying potential risk factors for reoperation as well as determining the fate of revision surgeries.
Methods: Retrospective analysis of consecutive patients undergoing primary AUS (pAUS) and revision AUS (rAUS) implantation at a tertiary centre. Logistic regression was employed to identify risk factors for reoperation associated with non-mechanical failures. Kaplan Meier method was applied to generate implant patency curves.
Results: Over 11-years, 108 and 28 patients underwent pAUS and rAUS, respectively. Amongst the former group, a 30-day complication rate of 20.4% was found with a complete (zero pad) dryness rate at follow-up of 49.1%. Post-operative infection was the commonest occurring complication in 7.4%. After pAUS, 27.8% underwent reoperation with cuff erosion being the top indication in 46.7%. Diabetes was a significant predictor for reoperation with an associated 3.6-fold increased risk. The 3-year and 5-year device survival rates without reoperation for pAUS were 80% and 76%, respectively. For rAUS, complete dryness rates achieved were lower at 32.1%. The rate of reoperation was higher at 42.9% with a significantly worse survival probability compared to pAUS (p = 0.024).
Conclusions: Whilst men may achieve complete dryness after pAUS, the potential complication burden and risk of reoperation are not low, and patients need to be counselled regarding this. Chances of continence success are lower when revision surgery is performed with a worse implant survival probability.
Scholarly Writing Experiences of Doctoral Students as Nonnative Speakers of English: Encountered Challenges and Needed Support
Authors: Fawzi Shamsi Ahmad , Yigitoglu Aptoula Nur , Vanci Osam Ulker
Published: December 2024

This study explores the challenges doctoral students encounter and the support they require at an international university where publishing is a prerequisite for graduation. Conducted at an English as a Medium of Instruction university in Northern Cyprus, the research study focuses on non-native English-speaking students and academic staff who use English as an Additional Language. A mixed-methods approach was employed, triangulating data from various research instruments (interviews, questionnaires, and group discussions) and multiple perspectives, including 147 PhD students, six supervisors, and two policymakers. The findings reveal four main challenges faced by PhD students: language-related, genre-related, support-related, and journal-related. The study also reports the types of support PhD students need to enhance students’ scholarly publishing literacy. Based on the results, the importance of guiding to improve doctoral students’ publication literacy is underscored. The implications suggest further research should investigate how to enhance publication literacy across diverse academic disciplines.
Corpus-based Readability Assessment of Chinese Cultural Textbooks for Middle School Students from an English Glocalization Perspective
Authors: Su Yujie , Xueyan L Xueyan L , Dong Shuchang , Dai Yuqing , Salih Ahmed Mohammed Altayeb , Liu Shanshan , Jia Meiqi
Published: December 2024

The localized English version of Chinese cultural material has played an essential role in spreading Chinese culture worldwide. However, insufficient attention had been paid to the readability of Chinese cultural reading materials, and far less to the readability of Chinese cultural reading materials for middle school students. The readability of Chinese cultural reading materials was calculated based on a self-created corpus, considering various factors such as vocabulary, sentence structure, and comprehensive indicators to analyze the readability of these materials in English quantitatively. Two questions were addressed: 1) To what degree are the current Chinese stories in English readable to middle school students; 2) What readability of Chinese stories in English is ideal for middle school students? The results indicated significant variations in readability among the five sets. It also recognized the need for further adjustments and development of the textbooks to better align with students’ grade levels and curriculum requirements. Moreover, it is crucial to enhance students’ engagement with Chinese culture via textbooks. It helped demonstrate the lack of sufficient attention to the readability of Chinese stories in English, and it inspired future Chinese cultural texts designed for middle school students to possess good adaptability in terms of readability.
Employing Drama Techniques in the Classroom to Improve the Speaking Skills of EFL University Students
Authors: Ghazai Almutairi Al danah , Alfarwan Salah
Published: December 2024

This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of drama techniques in improving the speaking skills of Saudi EFL students in terms of accuracy, pronunciation, vocabulary, and fluency. Therefore, the significance of the study is in its contributions to the field of second language teaching in Saudi Arabia, as well as in its potential to provide information to stakeholders such as researchers and English language teachers to explore to what extent drama techniques can have an impact on improving EFL students’ speaking skills. This study employed a quasi-experimental research design with one class and two groups randomly divided equally. The research population consisted of first-year Saudi English majors, specifically all 60 female students enrolled in the speaking and listening course. One class was chosen as the experimental group (30 students) and another as the control group (30 students). The study was conducted over four weeks in the second semester of 2024. A speaking test was utilized as a research instrument. The data analysis results revealed an apparent weakness in the students’ speaking accuracy, pronunciation, vocabulary, and fluency in both groups during the pre-test. However, the post-test revealed significant differences in the students’ speaking accuracy, pronunciation, vocabulary, and fluency in both groups, indicating that drama techniques had a significant impact on students’ speaking skills. The primary recommendation was to raise teachers’ awareness of the drama techniques and activities to employ in speaking classes
Facilitating Second Language Willingness to Communicate in English: A Systematic Review on Types of Classroom-based Instructional Practices and Their Effects
Authors: Gao Ying , Kew Si Na , Feng Hongtu , Zhang Tong , Ren Zhaozhao
Published: December 2024

This study addresses the critical question of how classroom-based instructional practices impact second language willingness to communicate (L2 WTC) in English. Recognizing the central role of L2 WTC in fostering students’ active participation in English communication, this systematic review evaluates the scope, effects, and contextual factors of instructional practices designed to enhance L2 WTC. The primary aim is to synthesize existing research to identify effective strategies for fostering L2 WTC among English as a second/foreign language learners. Specifically, the review explores: (1) the types of instructional practices implemented in classroom-based settings to develop L2 WTC and their contexts; (2) the observed effects of these instructional practices on L2 WTC; and (3) other variables studied alongside L2 WTC and their effects. Empirical evidence from studies published between January 2018 and December 2023 was systematically reviewed using the PRISMA method. A total of 45 studies were selected from databases such as ERIC, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, and SpringerLink. The findings reveal that instructional practices focusing on interactive approaches, collaborative tasks, and personalized feedback are most effective in enhancing L2 WTC. Furthermore, variables such as anxiety, motivation, and perceived competence were found to significantly influence L2 WTC. This study highlights critical gaps in the literature, including limited longitudinal research and insufficient exploration of diverse learner populations. It concludes with recommendations for refining instructional practices and guiding future research to further enhance L2 WTC.
Balloon valvuloplasty for valvar pulmonary stenosis: A 34-year experience at a large tertiary-level hospital, Southern Africa Balloon valvuloplasty for valvar pulmonary stenosis
Authors: Raphulu Phophi , Lebea Mamaila Martha , Cilliers Antoinette
Published: December 2024

Background: Congenital pulmonary valve stenosis (PS) is one of the most common congenital cardiac defects, accounting for 8 – 12% of all congenital cardiac defects. Percutaneous balloon pulmonary valvuloplasty (PBPV) has been the preferred treatment since its introduction in 1982.

Aim: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of PBPV over the last 3 decades at a single institution.

Method: A retrospective, descriptive analysis was conducted at a tertiary-level hospital in Southern Africa to evaluate patients who underwent PBPV between 1985 and 2019.

Results: During the study period, 68 patients underwent balloon valvuloplasty for moderate to severe pulmonary stenosis. Patients were selected using echocardiographic criteria. The mean pulmonary valve annulus measured on angiography was 11.2mm (SD 3.9) with a mean balloon size of 13.1mm (SD 4.4). The balloon size to pulmonary valve annulus ratio was 1.169:1. The median peak instantaneous gradient (PIG) before balloon valvuloplasty was 79mmHg (IQR 64 - 102mmHg) which decreased to 33mmHg (IQR 23 - 40mmHg) after balloon valvuloplasty (p<0.001). There was an 88% success rate. Complications occurred in 8/68 (11.7%) patients, with 1 procedural death reported.

Conclusion: Our study shows that PBPV is a safe and effective treatment of moderate and severe PS with a good outcome. Complications are rare if the procedure is well planned and managed promptly if they arise.
Method Validation of Crisaborole using Reverse Phase High Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC) and Quantitation of Crisaborole in Nanoemulsion Formulation for its Application in Ex Vivo Transdermal Permeation Study
Authors: Mohd Jaafar Mohd Hafiz
Published: December 2024

Crisaborole is a boron containing phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor which in this study was
formulated in nanoemulsion form to treat atopic dermatitis. The study aims to develop and validate
a selective analytical method for determining crisaborole in nanoemulsion formulations, facilitating
its application in ex vivo transdermal permeation studies for the treatment of atopic dermatitis.
Crisaborole was eluted using gradient elution method in reverse phase (C18) chromatography. The
mobile phases were comprised of phosphate buffer (pH3) and acetonitrile, which increasing
acetonitrile volume from 30 to 95 percent within 15 min with constant flow rate of 0.65 ml/min.
Column temperature was set at 40 ºC and detection wavelength was at 252 nm. The method produced
linear responses (R2=0.99) in concentrations ranges from 1.56-100 μg/ml (n=7). The developed
method was sensitive with limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) values of 1.84
μg/ml and 5.58 μg/ml; respectively. Crisaborole was stable in various working conditions which
were within the acceptance value provided by guidelines (±15%). In ex vivo studies, the concentration of crisaborole was plotted in cumulative permeated graph and this quantitative method was proven to provide a selective and sensitive measurement for detection of crisaborole.
Reprotoxicity of zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesized with Crataegus monogyna leaves extract: testis and sperm function
Authors: Remita F. , Talbi A. , Abdennour C. , Khelili K. , Bedouh Y. , Hamoud F. , Duman F. , Bouslama Z. , Rouabhi R. , Djebar M. R.
Published: December 2024

This work examines the effect of three doses of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs), synthetized with Crataegus monogyna leaves using zinc acetate, on the sperm quality of Wistar rats. Animals were divided into 4 groups; the control group maintained without treatment, while ZNP1, ZNP2, and ZNP3 received respectively 10 mg ZNP/kgbw, 50 mg ZNP/kgbw, and 100 mg ZNP/kgbw by gavage for 15 days. Epididymis sperm was collected for sperm parameters: concentration, live sperm, motility, velocity (VCL, VSL, and VAP), linearity (LIN), amplitude lateral head (ALH), and beat cross frequency (BCF). DNA fragmentation was measured in three samples selected from control, ZNP1, and ZNP2. Testicular and epididymis malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were evaluated. Compared to the control, ZNP1 has a significant reduction of testicular and epididymis weights, sperm concentration, live sperm, motility, VCL, VSL, VAP, LIN, and BCF, with a significant increase of MDA and a significant decrease of GSH levels. The ZNP2 group demonstrated a significant increase in epididymis weight, a raise in sperm parameters (concentration, motility, VCL VSL, VAP, LIN, ALH, and BCF), and an augmentation in GSH and GPx levels. However, ZNP3 has a significant increase in VSL and ALH while ZNP1 and ZNP2 showed no effect on spermatozoa DNA. interestedly, we found that the lower dose of ZNP1 acted as toxic to testicular and epididymis parameters, while the higher ones may help to improve sperm quality and reduced oxidative stress.
A digitalizáció fejlődése az önkormányzatok működése során
Authors: Marosi György Csongor
Published: December 2024

A digitális közigazgatás egyre fontosabb szerepet játszik az állami szervek, önkormányzatok
és állampolgárok közötti kapcsolattartásban az
új innovatív digitális rendszereken keresztül.
Ezen fejlesztések nemcsak hatékonyabb ügyintézést tesznek lehetővé, hanem hozzájárulnak
a közszolgáltatások gyorsabb, átláthatóbb és
könnyebben hozzáférhető formában történő
nyújtásához, így emelve azok színvonalát. Az
új digitális rendszerek alkalmazása megfelel az
EU-konformitás követelményeinek, mely a közigazgatás egységesítését és hatékonyságát növeli. A tanulmány bemutatja az elmúlt évtizedek
azon innovatív digitális fejlesztéseit, amelyek
lehetővé tették az önkormányzatok bekapcsolódását az e-közigazgatási rendszerbe. Emellett
részletesen tárgyalja a jogszabályi környezet
ehhez történő igazítását, így átfogó képet nyújt
Magyarország digitális e-kormányzati fejlettségéről és a kapcsolódó szabályozási keretekről.
Development and Validation of a Wave-Propelled Semi-submersible Unmanned Vehicle
Authors: Tian Yingyuan , Li Weijia , Wang Zhigang
Published: December 2024

Ocean observation and exploration technologies are crucial for marine environmental protection and resource development, but traditional tools have limitations in terms of operating time, coverage, and cost. Wave gliders, which offer advantages such as long duration, wide range, and low cost, are a promising solution, but their low speed and weak manoeuvrability hinder their application, due to poor collision avoidance and survivability. This study proposes a novel wave-propelled semi-submersible unmanned vehicle (WPSUV) to overcome these disadvantages. The WPSUV features a submerged main structure for navigation and autonomous collision avoidance through rapid buoyancy adjustment. Modelling, computational hydrodynamic and motion simulations, and functional and performance testing at sea demonstrate the feasibility and superior performance of the WPSUV compared to conventional wave gliders. The proposed WPSUV significantly enhances collision avoidance through diving, reduced visual target and wind resistance with minimal structures above the waterline, and improved stability due to its lower centre of gravity. This slightly positively buoyant vehicle with a high lift-to-drag ratio can effectively harness wave kinetic energy and achieve favourable wave-following characteristics. In addition, the submerged main structure provides protection against surface hazards and allows for stealthy operation. This novel wave-propelled and near-surface unmanned underwater vehicle has the potential to revolutionise marine observation and exploration, and to enable safe, reliable, and long-term monitoring of the marine environment.
Thermodynamic Efficiency of an Advanced 4th Generation VHTR Propulsion Engine for Large Container Ships
Authors: Głuch Jerzy , Kodlewicz Tomasz , Drosińska-Komor Marta , Ziółkowska Natalia , Breńkacz Łukasz , Ziółkowski Paweł
Published: December 2024

In response to global initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the maritime industry must adopt green propulsion solutions. This paper analyses the operational potential of very high-temperature reactors (VHTRs) as an innovative propulsion source for large container ships. Calculations are carried out for ships produced between 2018 and 2020 with a capacity of more than 20,000 TEU. For these ships, the average power of the main system is calculated at around 64.00 kW. The study focuses on a propulsion engine system with features such as extraction control, bypass control, and either one or two turbines. The direct thermodynamic cycle of the VHTR offers high efficiency, smaller sizes, and flexible power control, thus eliminating the need for helium storage and enabling rapid power changes. In addition, this article highlights the advantages of bypass control of the turbine, which avoids the need to shut down the propulsion engine in the harbour. The findings suggest that nuclear propulsion could play a crucial role in the future of maritime technology.
Experimental Study and Numerical Simulation of Radiated Noise from Unmanned Underwater Vehicle
Authors: Zhang Chunyu , Xu Qiang , Yang He , Peng Zilong , Li Jiangqiao , Zhou Jialiang
Published: December 2024

This paper focuses on the research of the radiation noise of underwater unmanned vehicle (UUV), which is one of the most important indicators for evaluating the performance of underwater unmanned equipment. Integrating experimental study and numerical calculations, this paper investigates the underwater radiated noise characteristics and hydrodynamic properties of the propeller of UUV. Firstly, an open-water radiated noise experiment is conducted. To ensure the accuracy of acoustic test, the UUV are held stationary during the experiment. Then, the hydrodynamic performance of a propeller in a steady flow field is calculated using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). Finally, the noise in the unsteady flow field is calculated using the Ffowcs Williams-Hawkings (FW-H) equation. The results show that the propeller, as the main noise source when the UUV is working, exhibits distinct characteristic line spectra in the frequency response curve. By comparing the numerical and experimental results, it was found that the overall trend of the sound pressure level is similar. But the line spectrum characteristics of the numerical results between 100 and 400 Hz are more obvious, mainly because the simulation model is more idealized compared to the experimental tests. The study further examines the hydrodynamic characteristics, propeller noise, and directional characteristics of UUV under different operating conditions.