bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of data-driven decision-making among health providers: a case of Mombasa county, Kenya
Authors: Wangige Muhula Sally , Nyamai Joseph Juma , Odongo Alfred Owino , Kariuki Peterson
Published: May 2024

Background: Healthcare professionals understand how important it is to turn health data into information for informed decision-making. However, a lack of trustworthy and up-to-date health information is caused by inadequate investment in infrastructure for data collection, analysis, dissemination, and use. The aim of the study was to determine data-driven decision-making among health providers, a case of Mombasa County, Kenya.
Methods: The study employed an analytical cross-sectional study design where a stratified random sampling approach was utilized to recruit respondents into the study. The Yamane formula of sample size calculation was used to recruit 168 study partakers for this study.
Results: The outcomes indicated that quality data-driven decision-making exhibited a substantial correlation with technical factors (r=0.642, p value=0.000). Furthermore, the findings highlighted a significant correlation between quality data-driven decision-making and behavioral factors (r=0.821, p value=0.000). Additionally, the study's results revealed a marked correlation between quality data-propelled decision-making alongside organizational factors (r=0.819, p value=0.000).
Conclusions: The likelihood ratio tests demonstrated that both technical and organizational factors significantly predicted data-driven decision-making among health providers, whereas behavioral factors did not have a statistically significant impact. There is a need to provide training for health workers at the county level to enhance data utilization skills, ensure thorough data verification before submission, and promote the use of health information in decision-making.
Childhood undernutrition and its determinants: a cross-sectional study among under-five children in a slum of Kolkata, West Bengal, India
Authors: Jana Dipankar , Paul Bobby , Chakraborty Sandipta , Gun Punyabrata , Bandyopadhyay Lina , Das Ranjan
Published: May 2024

Background: Undernutrition is an important risk for premature deaths and almost 45% of deaths in the under-five population are linked to undernutrition globally, where low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) bear a major share of it. This study aimed to measure the burden of such undernutrition and its determinants among the under-five children in a slum of Kolkata.
Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted between Oct 2022-February 2023 among 164 children aged between 6-59 months. Participants were selected by probabilistic sampling method; Mothers were interviewed and anthropometry of the children were measured. Prevalence of undernutrition was assessed by the composite index of anthropometric failure (CIAF). Logistic regression analysis was done to find out the associates of undernutrition.
Results: Median age of the study participants was 26.5 months, 54.3% of the participants being boy children. Regarding feeding of the child, 26.2% given prelecteal feeding, 17.7% didn’t receive colostrum, 33.5% had delayed initiation of breast feeding, only 57.9% child received exclusive breastfeeding. Of the participants, 11% child delivered by home delivery and 32.9% had low-birth-weights. According to CIAF 68.9% had undernutrition, while underweight, stunting, and wasting were reported as per conventional index 44.5%, 56.7%, and 16.5% respectively. In multivariable logistic analysis undernutrition have significant association with low birth weight and repeated episode of cough and running nose [aOR= 0.99(0.98-0.99). aOR=2.32(1.06-5.09)] respectively.
Conclusions: Considerable proportion of children (two out of three) had undernutrition with CIAF. Preventive measures should include improvement in antenatal care, child feeding counselling and social determinants of health.
A study to evaluate the effectiveness of planned educational programme on knowledge and attitude regarding psychosocial problems of eating disorders among adolescent girls studying in selected P.U Colleges at Vijayapur
Authors: Nelson  , Varghese Aleyamma , Desai Shrikant , C. K. Rajashekharayya , Rathod Lalita , Bhatangunaki Hanamanth
Published: May 2024

Background: Eating problems are prevalent, with girls more likely to develop issues in adolescence. Concerning indicators include weight fluctuations, altered eating patterns, and excessive physical activity. Outpatient treatment is effective for most, but some may require hospitalization or residential programs for stability and care.
Methods: This research adopted an evaluative research approach and employed a pre-experimental (one group pre-test post- test design), and a sample of 60 adolescent girls studying in PU College is recruited through simple random sampling technique. The investigation was conducted at selected PU colleges, Vijayapur. Karnataka, among the adolescents.
Results: This study assessed the knowledge and attitudes of adolescent girls in PU colleges in Vijayapur regarding eating disorders. Pretest results showed a majority with moderate knowledge and unfavorable attitudes. Following an educational program, significant improvements in knowledge and attitudes were observed. The findings highlight the effectiveness of targeted interventions in enhancing awareness and promoting positive attitudes. H1: Post-test knowledge scores significantly improved compared to pre-test scores (p<0.05). H2: Post-test attitude scores significantly enhanced compared to pre-test scores (p<0.05). H3: No significant associations were found between knowledge and attitude scores and socio-demographic variables among adolescent girls.
Conclusions: In summary, targeted interventions can enhance knowledge and attitudes about eating disorders among adolescent girls in PU colleges. Outpatient treatments and education are crucial for addressing these issues, but more research and interventions are needed to promote awareness and positive attitudes.
Utilização do modelo de otimização de corte unidimensional para aumento da eficiência do processo de pintura em uma indústria moveleira
Authors: Ledur Marcelo , Chiwiacowsky Leonardo Dagnino
Published: May 2024

Um dos processos industriais que compõem uma indústria moveleira é o processo de pintura, geralmente composto por uma esteira na qual as peças são colocadas para que sejam pintadas. O objetivo do presente estudo é permitir o aprimoramento da etapa produtiva de pintura realizada em uma indústria moveleira da Serra Gaúcha a partir do desenvolvimento e aplicação de um modelo de otimização. Devido à forma como é realizado o processo de pintura, o emprego do modelo de otimização para solução do problema de corte unidimensional se mostra adequado. Para aplicação da solução da otimização, foi desenvolvida uma rotina em Python para geração dos padrões de corte, além da utilização do sistema CPLEX para obtenção das soluções otimizadas. O estudo conduzido foi dividido em duas etapas, na primeira etapa foram gerados os resultados da otimização para cinco cenários reais de produção e, na segunda etapa, foi realizado um comparativo com os desempenhos reais. Neste comparativo, obteve-se um ganho geral de aproximadamente 64 % na redução do desperdício observado na organização das peças na esteira de pintura. Como a realização do estudo, foi possível observar que a aplicação da otimização no processo de pintura apresenta um alto potencial de ganhos, com redução de desperdícios e consequente aumento de produtividade.

Use of the one-dimensional cutting stock optimization model to increase efficiency of painting process in a furniture industry
Abstract: One of the industrial processes that make up a furniture industry is the painting process, generally consisting of a conveyor belt on which the pieces are placed to be painted. The objective of the present study is to allow the improvement of the painting production stage carried out in a furniture industry in Serra Gaúcha through the development and application of an optimization model. Due to the way the painting process is carried out, the use of an optimization model to solve the one-dimensional cutting stock problem is appropriate. To apply the optimization solution, a Python routine was developed to generate cutting patterns, in addition to using the CPLEX system to obtain optimized solutions. The study conducted was divided into two stages, in the first stage the optimization results were generated for five real production scenarios, in the second stage, a comparison was made with the real performances. In this comparison, an overall gain of approximately 64 % was achieved in reducing waste observed when organizing parts on the painting mat. As the study was carried out, it was possible to observe that the application of optimization in the painting process presents a high potential for gains, with a reduction in waste and a consequent increase in productivity.
Spectrum of Resilience: Unravelling the Threads of Oncology
Authors: Chhonker Dr. Kartik , Srivastava Dr. Namrata , Jain Dr. Kalpana , Shukla Dr. Gunjan
Published: May 2024

"Spectrum of Resilience: Unraveling the Threads of Oncology" is a groundbreaking book co-authored by Dr. Kartik Chhonker, Dr. Namrata Srivastava, Dr. Kalpana Jain, and Dr. Gunjan Shukla. This collaborative effort delves into the multifaceted realm of oncology, exploring not only the medical aspects but also the profound emotional and psychological dimensions of cancer diagnosis and treatment.
The book takes readers on a journey through the spectrum of experiences encountered by patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals in the field of oncology. Through a blend of clinical expertise and compassionate storytelling, the authors illuminate the challenges and triumphs inherent in the fight against cancer.
One of the distinctive features of "Spectrum of Resilience" is its holistic approach to understanding and addressing the needs of individuals affected by cancer. Beyond discussing the latest advancements in treatment modalities and therapeutic interventions, the book emphasizes the importance of fostering resilience in the face of adversity. Drawing upon real-life case studies and personal anecdotes, the authors offer insights into the resilience strategies employed by patients and caregivers, inspiring hope and empowerment.
Moreover, the book underscores the significance of a collaborative and interdisciplinary approach to cancer care. By highlighting the contributions of various healthcare professionals, including oncologists, nurses, psychologists, and social workers, the authors underscore the importance of a comprehensive support network in promoting healing and well-being.
"Spectrum of Resilience" also serves as a valuable resource for healthcare providers seeking to enhance their understanding of the psychosocial aspects of cancer care. Through practical guidance and evidence-based recommendations, the authors equip readers with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the complexities of oncology practice with sensitivity and empathy.
Overall, "Spectrum of Resilience: Unraveling the Threads of Oncology" stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration for anyone touched by cancer. With its compassionate approach, insightful commentary, and practical wisdom, this book offers a compelling testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Assessing how schools are responding to the Equity Index
Authors:   NZCER, Alansari Mohamed , Turner-Adams Hannah
Published: May 2024

An assessment of the influence of the Equity Index on school practices, student outcomes, and community perceptions of schools in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Synchronization of the eye movements of daphnia by external electric field
Authors:   Saratov State University, Skripal Anatolij , Usanov Andrei ,   MOU "Lyceum of Applied Sciences"
Published: May 2024

The investigation results of eye movement synchronization of daphnia freshwater crayfish by external electrical fields have been presented. Moment of the synchronization appearance was associated with the capture of fundamental frequency of daphnia eye oscillations by the frequency of external electrical signal. Dependence of magnification of alternating electrical voltage for which synchronization effect of daphnia eye was observed, on composition of water environment in which daphnia was placed, has been investigated.
On dynamics of the Henon map
Authors:   Federal state budgetary educational institution of higher professional education ", Zhusubaliev Zhanybaj ,   South-West state University", Rudakov Vadim ,   Federal state budgetary educational institution of higher professional education "South-West state University", Soukhoterin Evgeni ,   Federal state budgetary educational institution of higher professional education "South-West state University"
Published: May 2024

Division of the parameter plane for the two—dimensional Henon mapping into domains of periodic and chaotic oscillations is studied numerically and analytically. Regularities in the occurrence of different motions and bifurcational transitions are analyzed. It is shown that there are domains in the plane of parameters, where non—uniqueness of motions exists. This may lead to abrupt changes of the character of the dynamics under variation in the parameters, that is, to а sudden transition from one stable cycle to another or to chaotization of the oscillations.
Double layer structure at the fractal surface
Authors:   Voronezh State Technical University, Pertzev Viktor , Golovinski Pavel ,   Voronezh State University
Published: May 2024

We demonstrate that inter surface processes becomes mere complex in the case of the fractal structure of solid state surface. We investigate surfaces with developed roughness. We derive new description of the bound energy for water in dispersed system. The double layer structure is investigated for this case. The approach based on the fractional integration along the normal to the surface was used. We obtained formulae for liquid mass and double layer energy in a system with fractal surface and compared them with the calorimetric analysis result for wet sand.
External phase synchronization of chaotic oscillators chain
Authors:   Saratov State University, Fomin Anton , Vadivasova Tatjana ,   Saratov State University, Sosnovtseva Olga ,   Danmarks Tekniske Universitet, Anishchenko Vadim ,   Saratov State University
Published: May 2024

External synchronization of a chain of chaotic Rossler oscillators with unidirectoral coupling is studied numerically. Synchronizing harmonic signal is applied to the first oscillator of chain. The region of synchronization is obtained on the plane of parameters «external frequency - coupling». Pecularities of dynamical regimes of the chain in this region are analized.
Scaling at the transition to chaos via destruction of quasiperiodic motion at the golden mean frequency ratio
Authors:   Saratov Branch of Kotel`nikov Institute of Radiophysics and Electronics of Russian Academy of Sciences, Kuznetsov Aleksandr , Kuznetsov Sergey ,   Saratov Branch of Kotel`nikov Institute of Radiophysics and Electronics of Russian Academy of Sciences, lvankov Nikolay ,   Saratov State University, Osin Alexei ,   Saratov State University
Published: May 2024

The paper reproduces basic results concerning transition to chaos via destruction of quasiperiodic motion in one-dimensional circle map. For the golden mean rotation number we present the renormalization group (RG) analysis, consider structure of the critical attractor, give illustrations of scaling in the parameter space of the model map. We outline the fact that the two-parameter scaling can be observed only in a specially chosen local coordinates connected with the parameters of the original map via a nonlinear variable change; its form must account the concrete relation between two relevant eigenvalues of the linearized RG equation.
Nonlinear dynamics of tunnel-diode oscillator at the influence of external microwave signal
Authors:   Saratov State University, Skripal Aleksandr , Usanov Dmitrij ,   Saratov State University, Abramov Anton ,   Saratov State University
Published: May 2024

The model tunnel-diode oscillator was built, in which the change of the tunnel diode I-V-characteristic because of heating of free charge carriers and the appearance of detected signal under the influence of external microwave signal is taken into account. Dynamics of the transition from self-oscillation mode through asynchronous oscillation mode to mode of the oscillation suppression at comparatively low levels of an external microwave signal power was described. It was shown that account of tunnel diode I-V-characteristic change under the influence of external microwave signal allows to describe adequately the effect of output power observed in experiments reduction and following destruction of self-oscillation in the tunnel-diode oscillator with the increase of external microwave signal power.
Numerical estimation of biological rhythms destruction coursed by labour regimes
Authors:   Saratov State Medical University named after V. I. Razumovsky, Trubeckov Aleksej , Mchedlova Elena ,   Saratov State University
Published: May 2024

On the base of biomedical data analysis and numerical simulation results the consequence of the shift work effect on human organism are investigated. It is introduced and compared the characteristics allowed to estimate the degree of harm to the health induced by a shift work schedule.
Fluctuations of contours of passive tracer equal concentration in turbulent medium
Authors:   Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Saichev Irina , Saichev Alexandr ,   Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod
Published: May 2024

In view of problems of atmosphere and ocean physics, statistical properties of contours length of passive tracer equal concentration and of the concentration field total gradient in chaotically moving incompressible medium are studied. Expressions for statistical moments of these processes and also the probability distribution of total gradient are derived. It is shown that moments grow exponentially in time and distribution tends to logarithmically normal one.
Shear propagation model in strongly compressed crystal
Authors:   M.N. Mikheev Institute of Metal Physics of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Rosenfeld Evgenii
Published: May 2024

Simple mechanical model is proposed for shear waves propagated in ideal unlimited crystal. Two waves propagating in the same direction can reflect back together in this model due to interaction between them.
On synchronization of quasi-periodic oscillation at C-bifurcations in a piecewise-linear nonautonomous dynamic system
Authors:   Federal state budgetary educational institution of higher professional education ", Zhusubaliev Zhanybaj ,   South-West state University", Emelyanova Elena ,   Kursk State University
Published: May 2024

The behaviour is examined of a piecewise—linear dynamic system with external periodic force at C-bifurcations which is related to resonance cycles arising from synchronization of quasi—periodic oscillation. As example the dynamics of the system of automatic control with pulse-width modulation first kind is considered which is represented by а three—dimensional piecewise—linear nonautonomous dynamic system. It has been revealed that within the parameter plane there are domains of existence of resonance cycles on two—dimension thorus (domains of synchronization). These domains have specific shape similar to Arnold’s tongues, but differ from them essentially in their internal structural organization and bifurcation transitions which cannot be achieved in smooth dynamic systems in principle. A detailed analytical description of C—boundaries structure and bifurcation transitions within the synchronization domain is there in this paper.
Big bifurcation: birth of mathematical modelling
Authors:   National Research Tomsk State University, Poizner Boris , Sitnikova Darya ,   National Research Tomsk State University
Published: May 2024

What is genealogy of mathematical model — universal method of cognition? Authors took up а new interpretations of processes in European culture of XVII century. The mathematical modelling method is represented as а result of self—organization in а situation of competition and interference of esoteric, scholastic, rationalistic cognition ways. Why the last has won а victory over others? Its replicator had maximum of advantages concerning of self—organization process forming in society.
Modernized solar monitor of second generation from «Resurs-01» № 4 satellite
Authors:   Saratov State University, Sklyarov Yury , Brichkov Yury ,   Saratov State University, Vorobyov Vladimir ,   Saratov State University, Kotuma Alexandr ,   Saratov State University, Fomina Natalia ,   Saratov State University
Published: May 2024

Description of conditions for modernized solar constant monitor of second generation ап shortwave reflected radiation monitor from «Resurs—01» №4 satellite оп 1998-99 are given. Some preliminary results of procession of solar constant measurements for 48 days and of outgoing shortwave radiation and albedo measurement for 109 days are presented.
Self-organired criticality in hierarchical management structures
Authors:   Saratov State University, Koronovskii Aleksei , Hramov Aleksandr ,   Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University
Published: May 2024

This work deals with of hierarchical systems. It is shown that these systems demonstrate the self—organized criticality phenomena.
Informational dynamics of neurons
Authors:   University of California, Rabinovich Mihail
Published: May 2024

Actual problems of «interaction between dynamics and information» in biological systems are formulated and new experimental results are discussed in this paper
Faculty development to design effective online courses: Responding to requirements
Authors: Kırkıç Kamil Arif , Korkmaz Zehra Sedef , Doğan Selçuk , Nalbantoğlu Ümran Yazıcılar , Cengiz Sina Güzin
Published: May 2024

Since the pandemic, the importance of faculty development has been taken much more attention and has gone from being an ‘expectation’ to a ‘requirement’. Therefore, universities have started to step toward faculty development, which is also necessary. A wide variety of professional learning activities has been used for faculty development purposes in universities, but the research examining its effectiveness is limited. Our goal is to investigate the experiences of faculty from diverse backgrounds regarding technology-based, high-quality professional development programs in terms of their effectiveness. The faculty working at a foundation university participated in high-quality professional development programmes implemented in this study. The data were collected through focus group interviews. Using a qualitative methodology, we have found that faculty improved their knowledge and skills in designing and teaching online courses, with some faculty even reporting active use of what they have learned in their class and finding it valuable and effective. Program features such as feedback, facilitation, and best examples are helpful for having faculty grow pedagogically. The faculty has demonstrated that they can participate in learning activities that are meaningful to them in their daily lives. For the professional development programmes designed for the faculty to be effective in future studies, it is recommended that the programmes should be designed in a meaningful way for the faculty.
Received: 3 November 2022Accepted: 5 February 2024
Some Aspects of the Appointment of an Attorney as a Defendant within the Framework of Digitalization of Criminal Proceedings
Authors:   President of the Moscow Chamber of Lawyers, Zubkov Sergey B.
Published: May 2024

The article discusses issues related to the appointment of a lawyer as a defender in criminal proceedings in the context of digitalization. The analysis of the features of the ongoing process of digitalization of the criminal procedure sphere is carried out. Comments are given on the proposed legislative changes regarding the establishment of the procedure for issuing orders to lawyers for the execution of orders. The conclusion is made that it is necessary to form an integrated electronic document management system for the appointment of a lawyer.
Analysing intra-textual patterns in corpus-assisted discourse studies
Authors: Bednarek Monika
Published: May 2024

Many corpus-based discourse analysts are interested in linguistic patterns that hold across the texts in their corpus. In such corpus-based studies, relatively little attention is given to ‘intra-textual’ patterns or discourse organisation/text structure. For example, a standard practice in corpus-assisted discourse studies is to generate lists of word frequencies, keywords, collocates, and n-grams on the basis of total word frequencies in the corpus, without analysing how these words are used to structure texts or conversations. In this commentary, I reflect on this issue, and introduce selected techniques for integrating analysis of text structure/discourse organisation in corpus-assisted discourse studies, including the analysis of dispersion/concordance plots in media data, the use of clusters/n-grams across sentence breaks in conversational data, and the repurposing of parallel concordances for analysing Twitter posts and responses to them.
Advancements in Learning Organizations: A Comprehensive Narrative Review
Authors: Rad Dana , Bocoș Mușata
Published: May 2024

Learning organizations have garnered substantial attention for their capacity to augment organizational performance and adaptability within dynamic environments. The concept underscores the significance of continuous learning, knowledge creation, and knowledge sharing within organizational frameworks. This literature review offers a comprehensive overview of research findings concerning learning organizations, encompassing their definition, characteristics, benefits, challenges, and future research directions. The narrative explores seminal works by influential theorists such as Peter Senge, and delves into the distinctive features that characterize learning organizations. Additionally, it examines the benefits associated with cultivating learning organizations, ranging from improved performance to heightened employee satisfaction. Notwithstanding their advantages, the review addresses the challenges organizations encounter in the pursuit of becoming learning organizations, emphasizing the need for a supportive learning culture and the integration of technology. The discussion extends to the potential role of federated learning in facilitating collaborative knowledge creation, particularly in industries prioritizing data privacy and security. Furthermore, the review identifies knowledge gaps in the existing literature, emphasizing the necessity for robust metrics to measure learning organization capabilities and the exploration of leadership's role in sustaining these organizations. The integration of diverse perspectives from studies on organizational learning, leadership, and emerging technologies, such as federated learning, contributes to a holistic understanding of learning organizations. Concluding insights highlight the critical importance of learning organizations in navigating the complexities of the modern business landscape and underscore the potential avenues for future research in this dynamic field.
Quasi-educational Strategies for Diagnosing Readerly Reflection: Timeline as an Intertext in Literary Studies and Educational Aspects of the Formation of Reading Competence
Authors: Horlova Olena , Marchenko Tetiana , Moskalyk Hennadii , Avksentieva Halyna , Slyvka Liubov , Maksymenko Svitlana
Published: May 2024

In the article the authors presented the results of associative-essayistic quasi-experiment, which revealed the modalities of perception, reflection and reception of students' reading of postmodern novels of the famous Ukrainian writer Andrukhovych “The Recreation” (2017), “The Perversion” (1996) and “Moscoviada” (2000). The relevance of the article is determined by the lack of methods for diagnosing professional and amateur reader's reflection in Ukraine and Western Europe. The relevance of the article lies not only in the popularity of Andruchovych’s work in Europe (2022 received the Heine Prize) but also in the lack of methods and strategies for forming and monitoring reading competence in the reception of a postmodern work. From the point of view of readerly intertextual communication, Andrukhovych’s novels (1996; 2000; 2017) are potentially open to many interpretive strategies. The main reason for this is their being on the verge of postmodernist and new realist paradigms, which implies distancing from the accumulation of citations and the practice of using intertext according to a certain extraliterary intention. Consequently, the purpose of the article is to identify the precedent texts, that form a system of reader's absentee communication when reading the novels of Andrukhovych (1996; 2000; 2017). In order to achieve the goal, the study applied a comprehensive approach.  In the article the authors proved the relevance of the phenomena of the town and river timeline and travel timeline in the perception of the professional reader; demonstrated that the nearest textual coincidence of urban chronotopes of novels by Andrukhovych (1996; 2000; 2017) is work by Pidmohylnyi (2008), Gogol (2022) and others. The main of these coincidences is the threefold structure of the city and the pathos of the romantic line. The main conclusion of the article is the orientation of the vector of intertextual interaction in the novel towards the representation of the eternal archetype of the cultural hero, on whom the reader projects his or her Ego. The international relevance of the article is determined by the wide popularity of Andrukhovych’s works in Europe and the recent receipt of the Heine Prize (2022).
A Comparative Analysis of After-School Program Policy in Korea and China from an Institutional Perspective
Authors:   Korean Comparative Education Society, Xu Jingwen , Lee Jiyon
Published: May 2024

[Purpose] The purpose of this study is to comparatively analyze the after-school programpolicies of Korea and China froman institutional perspective in order to obtain implications for after-school programs currently being expanded in Chinese elementary schools.
[Methods] To this end, this study comparatively analyzed national education policy on after-school programs in China and Korea (three policy from each country). For analysis, this research explored the similarities and differences between the two countries' relevant policies in three dimensions of institutional theory suggested by Chen (2008), such as value function, subject identity, and social behavior.
[Results] The results of the study show that, first, in terms of the value function dimension, Korea has a clear evaluation and supervision system for after-school programs, while China's policy provisions on supervision and evaluation are more general, and the supervision system needs further refinement and improvement. Second, in terms of subject identity, Korea's policy shows a more comprehensive and systematic emphasis and arrangement on the subjectivity of teachers and students. On the other hand, although China's policy mentions that students' individuality should be respected and students' academic burden should be reduced, it generally pays less attention to student subjectivity and intensity than Korean policy. Third, in terms of social action, Korea focuses on diversifying teaching content and promoting social participation, while China emphasizes the standardized management of after-school programs and the overall development of students, and should further strengthen the diversification of teaching content.
[Conclusion] Through the comparative analysis of after-school programs in Korea and China, this study identified that China needs to strengthen the construction of supervision and evaluation systems, pay attention to the needs of teachers and students, and enrich the forms of teaching content to continuously improve after-school programs, so as to promote the quality and balanced development of after-school education.
Breast reconstruction and breast cancer-related lymphedema: insights and perspectives
Authors: Laustsen-Kiel Cecilie Mullerup , Hansen Laura , Lauritzen Elisabeth , Damsgaard Tine Engberg
Published: May 2024

An estimated 500,000 women were diagnosed with the debilitating breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) in 2022. Lymphedema is not just fluid, but a complex disease characterized by low-grade inflammation, fat deposition, and fluid accumulation, severely affecting patients’ quality of life (QoL). The impact of surgical and adjuvant breast cancer treatment on BCRL has been investigated, and treatments have been modified to maintain a high cancer-free survival while addressing the late effects. In addition, the demand for breast reconstruction has increased in the last two decades, leaving a gap in the understanding of the association between BCRL and breast reconstruction. Early detection and treatment of BCRL is crucial in preventing advancement into an impairing chronic stage, making reliable diagnostic modalities necessary. This review is an updated overview of the various diagnostic tools and the established and evolving treatment approaches for BCRL, providing insight into the research findings published since 2017 on breast reconstruction and BCRL through a systematic literature search. Based on the reviewed literature, the authors could not conclude any sure causality between BCRL and breast reconstruction. Studies suggest that breast reconstruction contributes to lower BCRL rates, but prospective observational studies are recommended for future research.
Soft Schottky diodes for skin-interfaced electronics enabled by entirely soft components
Authors: Shin Donghyung , Kim Sehyun , Park Haechan , Kim Yeeun , Na Myeonghyeon , Kim Daeun , Sim Kyoseung
Published: May 2024

Soft electronics have achieved significant development, attracting substantial interest due to their promising potential as a dominant form of future electronics. In this rapidly evolving field, the fully soft Schottky diode plays a critical role as a fundamental building block for electronic circuitry systems. These systems, constructed entirely from soft materials, can tolerate various mechanical deformations when interfaced with human skin, making them ideal for use in health monitoring systems and interactive human-machine interfaces. In this study, we introduce a Schottky diode fabricated entirely from soft materials using a facile solution process, further enabling all-printing fabrication systems. Utilizing the mechanical softness of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate-based soft electrode, poly(3-hexylthiophene) nanofibril composite soft semiconductor, and liquid metal, we successfully fabricated a fully soft Schottky diode. This diode exhibits exceptional electrical characteristics even under various mechanical deformations, showcasing the high durability of the device. We have further developed fully soft rectifiers and logic gates, highlighting the versatility of our study. By incorporating these devices with a piezoelectric nanogenerator in a skin-interfaced energy harvesting system, they exhibit sufficient capability for rectification, ensuring a stable power supply as part of a power supply management system. This approach offers substantial potential for future skin-interfaced electronics, paving the way for advanced wearable technology.
Pathogens Detected in Questing Ixodes ricinus Ticks in a Mountainous Area in Greece
Authors: Tsioka Katerina , Saratsis Anastasios , Pappa Styliani , Papa Anna
Published: May 2024

Ixodes ricinus ticks are widespread in Europe and important vectors for multiple pathogens. The purpose of the study was to collect ticks in a mountainous area in Greece and screen those of I. ricinus species for several pathogens. I. ricinus was the predominant tick species identified (398/440, 90.45%). Following pooling (1-17 ticks per pool), homogenization and extraction of genetic material of the ticks, a real time PCR was applied for the detection of a panel of tick-borne pathogens, while additional conventional PCRs combined with Sanger sequencing were applied for detection of viruses and for typing of Rickettsia and Borrelia species. At least one pathogen was detected in 60 of the 80 (75%) pools. Rickettsia spp. predominated as it was detected in 63.75% of the tick pools (51/80), followed by Borrelia spp. (35 pools, 45%); A. phagocytophilum was detected in 2 (2.5%) pools, phleboviruses in 3 (3.75%) and nairoviruses in 7 (8.75%) pools. All the Rickettsia sequences taken belonged to R. monacensis, while among Borrelia spp., B. garinii and B. valaisiana were detected. Regarding viruses, Norway phlebovirus 1, Sulina and Grotenhout nairoviruses were detected. Although a small number of ticks from only one area in Greece was tested, a variety of pathogens and recently identified viruses were detected, prompting for further studies in ticks and surveillance studies in humans.
MAFLD Pandemic: Updates in Pharmacotherapeutic Approach Development
Authors: Khaznadar Farah , Khaznadar Omar , Petrovic Ana , Hefer Marija , Gjoni Fabian , Gjoni Stefan , Steiner Justinija , Smolic Martina , Bojanic Kristina
Published: May 2024

With around one billion of the world's population affected, the era of Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) pandemic has entered the global stage. MAFLD is a chronic progressive liver disease with accompanying metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity which can progress asymptomatically to liver cirrhosis and subsequently to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and for which, to date there is almost no approved pharmacologic options. Because MAFLD has a very complex etiology and it affects also extrahepatic organs, a multidisciplinary approach is required when it comes to finding an effective and safe active substance for MAFLD treatment. The optimal drug for MAFLD should diminish steatosis, fibrosis and inflammation in the liver, and the winner for MAFLD drug authorisation seems to be the one that significantly improves liver histology. Saroglitazar (Lipaglyn®) was approved for Metabolic dysfunction associated steatohepatitis (MASH) in India in 2020; however, the drug is still being investigated in other countries. Despite that a pharmaceutical industry is still lagging behind to develop an ap-proved pharmacologic therapy for MAFLD, research has been recently intensified and many molecules which are underway in the final stages of clinical trials are expected to be approved in the coming few years. Already this year, the first drug (Rezdiffra™) in the United States was ap-proved via accelerated procedure for treatment of MAFLD, i.e. of MASH in adults. This review underscores the most recent information related to the development of drugs for MAFLD treatment, focusing on the molecules that have come furthest towards approval.
Debt Collection Model for Mass Receivables in a Debt Collection Company Based on Decision Rules – a Path to Efficiency and Employee Sustainability
Authors: Jankowski Rafał , Paliński Andrzej
Published: May 2024

Debt collection companies buy overdue debts on the market in order to collect them and recover the highest possible amounts of a debt. The pursuit of debt recovery by employees of collection agencies is a very demanding task. The aim of the article is to propose a rule-based model for managing the process of mass debt collection in a debt collection company, which will make the debt collection process more efficient. To achieve this, we have chosen a decision tree as a machine learning technique best suited for creating rules based on extensive data from the debt collection company. The classification accuracy of the decision tree, regardless of the possibility of acquiring rule-based knowledge, proved to be the highest among the tested machine learning methods, with an accuracy rate of 85.5%. Through experiments, we generated 16 stable rules to assist in the debt collection process. The proposed approach allows for the elimination of debts that are difficult to recovery at the initial stage of recovery process and to decide whether to pursue amicable debt collection or to escalate the debt recovery process to legal action. Our approach also enables the determination of specific actions during each stage of the proceedings. Abandoning certain actions or reducing their frequency will alleviate the burden on collection agency employees and help avoid the typical burnout associated with this line of work. This is the path to making the organizational culture of a collection agency more sustainable. Our model confirms also the possibility of using data from debt collection companies to automatically generate procedural rules and automate the process of purchasing and collecting debts. However, this would require a larger set of attributes than what we currently possess.
Real‐World Study of Serum Neurofilament Light Chain Levels in Ocrelizumab‐Treated People with Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Barrero Hernández Francisco J. , Romero Villarubia Ana , Muñoz Fernández Carmen , Guillén Martinez Virginia , Aguilera Del Moral Almudena , Barrios-López José María , Ramírez Rivas Maria A. , Gálvez Muñoz Antonio J. , Piñar Morales Raquel
Published: May 2024

Serum neurofilament light chain (sNfL) levels have been proposed as a biomarker of the clinical activity, disability progression, and response to treatment of people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS); however, questions remain about its implementation in clinical practice. Ocrelizumab (OCR) has proven effective to improve clinical and radiological outcomes and to reduce sNfL levels. This real-life study followed the sNfL levels of 30 PwMS treated for 12 months with OCR and evaluated the usefulness of this biomarker for the short-term prognosis, considering expanded disability status scale (EDSS), annualized relapse rate (ARR), radiological activity, and NEDA-3 values. OCR reduced the ARR in 83% of PwMS and the radiological activity in 80%. Their EDSS was maintained, while NEDA-3 was achieved in 70% at 12 months. OCR produced an early reduction in sNfL levels (at 3 months). At baseline, greater MRI-evaluated radiological activity was associated with higher sNfL levels. sNFL levels over the first 12 months of treatment did not predict a suboptimal response or sustained control of the disease. Longer-term studies are needed to explore the predictive usefulness of sNfL levels in PwMS treated with high-efficacy drugs
Use of Microalgae-Derived Astaxanthin to Improve Cytoprotective Capacity in the Ileum of Heat-Induced Oxidative Stressed Broilers
Authors: Kuehu Donna Lee , Fu Yuanyuan , Nasu Masaki , Yang Hua , Khadka Vedbar S. , Deng Youping
Published: May 2024

The gastrointestinal tract has a pivotal role in nutrient absorption, immune function, and overall homeostasis. The ileum segment of the small intestine plays respective roles in nutrient breakdown and absorption. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of heat-induced oxidative stress and the potential mitigating effects of an astaxanthin antioxidant treatment on the ileum of broilers. By comparing the growth performance and gene expression profiles among three groups- thermal neutral, heat stress and heat stress with astaxanthin, under two temperature conditions of 21-22°C and 32-35°C, this research aims to elucidate the role of astaxanthin in supporting homeostasis and cellular protection in the ileum. Results showed both treatments under heat stress experienced reduced growth performance, while the group treated with astaxanthin showed a slightly lesser decline. Results further showed the astaxanthin treatment group significantly upregulated in the cytoprotective gene expression for HSF2, SOD2, GPX3, and TXN, as well as the upregulation of epithelial integrity genes, LOX, CLDN1 and MUC2. In conclusion, our experimental findings demonstrate upregulation of cytoprotective and epithelial integrity genes suggests astaxanthin may effectively enhance the cellular response to heat stress to mitigate oxidative damage, and contribute to cytoprotective capacity.
Sustainable Fashion Consumption: The Narrative Documented from Fast Fashion Brands and Factors Influencing Consumers’ Purchase Intentions in Türkiye
Authors: Shehneh Mohannad , Kachkar Omar , Gültekin Salman Gülberk
Published: May 2024

: This study aims at exploring Turkish consumers’ behaviors toward purchasing green fashion. A mixed-methods approach was used in this study. Six experts from the main brands in the fashion industry in Türkiye were interviewed. A total of 268 questionnaires were collected from Turkish consumers, and their responses were analyzed. The theory of planned behavior (TPB) informed the theoretical framework of this study. The main components of the TPB were extended to include perceived consumer effectiveness. A thematic analysis was conducted to analyze and code the interviews. To test the hypotheses, structural equation modeling (SEM) was conducted. The findings show that the key factors of the TPB, i.e., attitudes (ATTs), subjective norms (SNs), and perceived behavioral control (PBC), as well as perceived consumer effectiveness, significantly impact the intentions of Turkish consumers to purchase sustainable fashion. However, the results highlight some inconsistencies, gaps, and barriers that discourage the purchase intentions of consumers, including a lack of information, misinformation, greenwashing, green skepticism, a lack of trust, and the high cost of sustainable fashion.
Novel Wearable System to Recognize Sign Language in Real Time
Authors: Umut İlhan , Kumdereli Ümit Can
Published: May 2024

The aim of this study is to develop a software solution for real-time recognition of sign language words using two arms. This will enable communication between hearing-impaired individuals and those who can hear. Several sign language recognition systems have been developed using different technologies, including cameras, armbands, and gloves. The system developed in this study utilizes surface electromyography (muscle activity) and inertial measurement unit (motion dynamics) data from both arms. Other methods often have drawbacks, such as high costs, low accuracy due to ambient light and obstacles, and complex hardware requirements, which have prevented their practical application. A software has been developed that can run on different operating systems using digital signal processing and machine learning methods specific to the study. For the test, we created a dataset of 80 words based on their frequency of use in daily life and performed a thorough feature extraction process. We tested the recognition performance using various classifiers and parameters and compared the results. The Random Forest algorithm was found to have the highest success rate with 99.875% accuracy, while the Naive Bayes algorithm had the lowest success rate with 87.625% accuracy. Feedback from a test group of 10 people indicated that the system is user-friendly, aesthetically appealing, and practically useful. The new system enables smoother communication for people with hearing disabilities and promises seamless integration into daily life without compromising user comfort or lifestyle quality.