bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES IN EDUCATION: A CASE STUDY OF IMPLEMENTATION IN KAZAKHSTAN
Authors: Seitova Venera
Published: April 2024

This study examines the implementation of innovative technologies in the education sector of Kazakhstan. The use of modern technological tools in teaching has become increasingly important in enhancing the quality of education and preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century. This research aims to explore the current status, challenges, and future prospects of integrating innovative technologies into the educational system of Kazakhstan. The study employs a qualitative approach, including interviews and surveys with educators, administrators, and policymakers involved in the implementation of technology in education. The findings reveal that while there is a growing interest in the use of innovative technologies, there are also significant challenges, including limited access to technology, inadequate training for teachers, and a lack of clear policies and guidelines. Despite these challenges, there is optimism about the potential of technology to improve teaching and learning outcomes in Kazakhstan. The study concludes with recommendations for policymakers and educators to overcome these challenges and fully realize the benefits of innovative technologies in education.
Modelo de madurez de la experiencia de clientes (CX). ¿Cómo rentabilizamos la CX en la empresa?
Authors: Gallardo García Francisco Javier , Pagán Castaño Esther , Sánchez García Javier , Guijarro García María
Published: April 2024

Objetivo: El propósito de este artículo es la creación de un modelo integral de madurez de la Gestión de la Experiencia del Cliente (CXM), que identifica los factores críticos que inciden en la mejora del retorno empresarial mediante la optimización de la experiencia del cliente.
Metodología: El estudio parte del análisis exhaustivo de los modelos de madurez más destacados a nivel profesional y científico, como CXPA, Forrester y Qualtrics. Se complementa con un análisis cualitativo mediante el método Delphi, en el que han formado parte expertos en la materia.
Resultados: Tras la realización de varias rondas, se llegó al diseño de un modelo integral que abarca seis categorías fundamentales: estrategia, cultura, entendimiento del cliente, diseño, implementación e innovación, medición y retorno. Para cada una de estas categorías, se identificaron una serie de ítems para evaluar la madurez de las organizaciones en el ámbito de la CXM.
Limitaciones: La principal carencia es el uso del análisis cualitativo que, aunque riguroso, requiere complementarse con evaluaciones de validez y fiabilidad, como el coeficiente de Akert, para medir la consistencia de las cuestiones en el estudio.
Aplicaciones prácticas: Este estudio proporciona una herramienta que permitirá a las organizaciones, por un lado, evaluar su nivel de madurez, priorizar acciones según su retorno, identificar una ruta óptima para la implementación de la CX. Y por otro, de forma colectiva focalizar la discusión y difusión de prácticas, o metodologías de interés para las organizaciones que busquen mejorar su retorno a través de la experiencia de sus clientes.
Paisajes encontrados y sinfonías ruidosas. Una mirada subjetiva hacia la identidad valenciana desde la experimentación audiovisual
Authors: Jordà Bou Damià
Published: April 2024

Este artículo presenta una investigación basada en la práctica de las artes que emplea como antecedentes el corpus de obra artística desarrollada por el autor entre los años 2015 y 2020. Se trata de un conjunto de obras que se utilizan estudio y experimentación con los medios audiovisuales contemporáneos como dispositivos de revisión de los modelos de representación. Detallaremos la construcción de un proceso creativo a partir de la observación de los lugares del País Valencià y su utilidad como elementos para una construcción identitaria alternativa, que se combina con el proceso de investigación expresivo basado en la exploración de las posibilidades del audiovisual en el contexto del espacio expositivo. El componente subjetivo es determinante en esta investigación, en tanto que los resultados presentados parten de la mirada, la percepción e incluso los vínculos emocionales del propio autor, con la intención de convertir la experiencia vivida en sujeto de valor colectivo.
Identidad estética de las subculturas valencianas contemporáneas
Authors: Escribano Ruth de la Puerta , Santamarina Pablo , Vacas Josefina
Published: April 2024

En la Valencia actual perviven grupos minoritarios que han formado parte de distintas subculturas urbanas internacionales durante los años 50 hasta los 80 del siglo XX que, con distinto grado de visibilidad y fieles a su esencia, han marcado un punto de inflexión en la historia del traje. Cada subcultura, evolucionada, ha expresado sus señas de identidad, sus valores y demostrado la creatividad a través del lenguaje escrito (composición de la letra de las canciones, libros y poesías), oral (cantando y tocando instrumentos en un grupo de música) y visual (indumentaria, peinado, calzado, complementos, sesiones de fotografías de Estilismo, pintura de cuadros, diseño de camisetas y portadas de discos o CD). Hay una constante común en ellas: el deseo de ser diferentes y libres.
Les pedagogies visuals de Ricard Ramon
Authors: Alonso Sanz Amparo
Published: April 2024

Ressenya de la publicació: Ramon, R. (2024) Pedagogies visuals de la identitat valenciana. Mirades des de l’art contemporani. Afers.
Asymptotic analysis for confluent hypergeometric function in two variables given by double integral
Authors: Haraoka Yoshishige
Published: April 2024

We study an integrable connection with irregular singularities along a normally crossing divisor. The connection is obtained from an integrable connection of regular singular type by a confluence, and has irregular singularities along \(x=\infty\) and \(y=\infty\). Solutions are expressed by a double integral of Euler type with resonances among the exponents in the integrand. We specify twisted cycles that give main asymptotic behaviors in sectorial domains around \((\infty,\infty)\). Then we obtain linear relations among the twisted cycles, and get an explicit expression of the Stokes multiplier. The methods to derive the asymptotic behaviors for double integrals and to get linear relations among twisted cycles in resonant case, which we developed in this paper, seem to be new.
Transposon mutagenesis screen in Klebsiella pneumoniae identifies genetic determinants required for growth in human urine and serum
Authors: Gray Jessica , Torres Von Vergel L , Goodall Emily CA , McKeand Samantha A , Scales Danielle , Collins Christy , Wetherall Laura , Lian Zheng Jie , Bryant Jack A , Milner Matthew T , Dunne Karl A , Icke Chris , Rooke Jessica L , Schneiders Thamarai , Lund Peter A , Cunningham Adam F , Cole Jeffrey A , Henderson Ian R
Published: April 2024

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a global public health concern due to the rising myriad of hypervirulent and multi-drug resistant clones both alarmingly associated with high mortality. The molecular microbial genetics underpinning these recalcitrant K. pneumoniae infections is unclear, coupled with the emergence of lineages resistant to nearly all present day clinically important antimicrobials. In this study, we performed a genome-wide screen in K. pneumoniae ECL8, a member of the endemic K2-ST375 pathotype most often reported in Asia, to define genes essential for growth in a nutrient-rich laboratory medium (Luria-Bertani medium), human urine and serum. Through transposon directed insertion-site sequencing (TraDIS), a total of 427 genes were identified as essential for growth on LB agar, whereas transposon insertions in 11 and 144 genes decreased fitness for growth in either urine or serum, respectively. These studies provide further knowledge on the genetics of this pathogen but also provide a strong impetus for discovering new antimicrobial targets to improve current therapeutic options for K. pneumoniae infections.
Using normative models pre-trained on cross-sectional data to evaluate longitudinal changes in neuroimaging data
Authors: Bučková Barbora Rehák , Fraza Charlotte , Rehák Rastislav , Kolenič Marián , Beckmann Christian , Španiel Filip , Marquand Andre , Hlinka Jaroslav
Published: April 2024

Longitudinal neuroimaging studies offer valuable insight into intricate dynamics of brain development, ageing, and disease progression over time. However, prevailing analytical approaches rooted in our understanding of population variation are primarily tailored for cross-sectional studies. To fully harness the potential of longitudinal neuroimaging data, we have to develop and refine methodologies that are adapted to longitudinal designs, considering the complex interplay between population variation and individual dynamics.We build on normative modelling framework, which enables the evaluation of an individual’s position compared to a population standard. We extend this framework to evaluate an individual’s
change
compared to standard dynamics. Thus, we exploit the existing normative models pre-trained on over 58,000 individuals and adapt the framework so that they can also be used in the evaluation of longitudinal studies. Specifically, we introduce a quantitative metric termed
“z-diff”
score, which serves as an indicator of change of an individual compared to a population standard. Notably, our framework offers advantages such as flexibility in dataset size and ease of implementation.To illustrate our approach, we applied it to a longitudinal dataset of 98 patients diagnosed with early-stage schizophrenia who underwent MRI examinations shortly after diagnosis and one year later.Compared to cross-sectional analyses, which showed global thinning of grey matter at the first visit, our method revealed a significant normalisation of grey matter thickness in the frontal lobe over time. Furthermore, this result was not observed when using more traditional methods of longitudinal analysis, making our approach more sensitive to temporal changes.Overall, our framework presents a flexible and effective methodology for analysing longitudinal neuroimaging data, providing insights into the progression of a disease that would otherwise be missed when using more traditional approaches.
Psychological stress disturbs bone metabolism via miR-335-3p/Fos signaling in osteoclast
Authors: Zhang Jiayao , Li Juan , Huang Jiehong , Xiang Xuerui , Li Ruoyu , Zhai Yun , Lin Shuxian , Liu Weicai
Published: April 2024

It has been well validated that chronic psychological stress leads to bone loss, but the underlying mechanism remains unclarified. In this study, we established and analyzed the chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) mice to investigate the miRNA-related pathogenic mechanism involved in psychological stress-induced osteoporosis. Our result found that these CUMS mice exhibited osteoporosis phenotype that is mainly attributed to the abnormal activities of osteoclasts. Subsequently, miRNA sequencing and other analysis showed that miR-335-3p, which is normally highly expressed in the brain, was significantly downregulated in the nucleus ambiguous, serum, and bone of the CUMS mice. Additionally, in vitro studies detected that miR-335-3p is important for osteoclast differentiation, with its direct targeting site in Fos. Further studies demonstrated FOS was upregulated in CUMS osteoclast, and the inhibition of FOS suppressed the accelerated osteoclastic differentiation, as well as the expression of osteoclastic genes, such as Nfatc1, Acp5, and Mmp9, in miR-335-3p-restrained osteoclasts. In conclusion, this work indicated that psychological stress may downregulate the miR-335-3p expression, which resulted in the accumulation of FOS and the upregulation of NFACT1 signaling pathway in osteoclasts, leading to its accelerated differentiation and abnormal activity. These results decipher a previously unrecognized paradigm that miRNA can act as a link between psychological stress and bone metabolism.
The full length BEND2 protein is dispensable for spermatogenesis but required for setting the ovarian reserve in mice
Authors: Huang Yan , Bucevic Nina , Coves Carmen , Felipe-Medina Natalia , Marcet-Ortega Marina , Nikou Nikoleta , Madrid-Sandín Cristina , López-Panadés Maria , Buza Carolina , Ferrer Miralles Neus , Iborra Antoni , Pujol Anna , Pendás Alberto M , Roig Ignasi
Published: April 2024

Infertility affects up to 12% of couples globally, with genetic factors contributing to nearly half of the cases. Advances in genomic technologies have led to the discovery of genes like
Bend2
, which plays a crucial role in gametogenesis. In the testis,
Bend2
expresses two protein isoforms: full-length and a smaller one. Ablation of both proteins results in an arrested spermatogenesis. Because the
Bend2
locus is on the X chromosome, and the

Bend2
-/y

mutants are sterile, BEND2’s role in oogenesis remained elusive.In this study, we employed a novel
Bend2
mutation that blocks the expression of the full-length BEND2 protein but allows the expression of the smaller BEND2 isoform. Interestingly, this mutation does not confer male sterility and mildly affects spermatogenesis. Thus, it allowed us to study the role of BEND2 in oogenesis. Our findings demonstrate that full-length BEND2 is dispensable for male fertility, and its ablation leads to a reduced establishment of the ovarian reserve. These results reveal a critical role for full-length BEND2 in oogenesis and provide insights into the mechanisms underlying the establishment of the ovarian reserve. Furthermore, these findings hold relevance for the diagnostic landscape of human infertility.
A septo-hypothalamic-medullary circuit directs stress-induced analgesia
Authors: Shah Devanshi Piyush , Sharma Pallavi Raj , Agarwal Rachit , Barik Arnab
Published: April 2024

Stress is a potent modulator of pain. Specifically, acute stress due to physical restraint induces stress-induced analgesia (SIA). However, where and how acute stress and pain pathways interface in the brain are poorly understood. Here, we describe how the dorsal lateral septum (dLS), a forebrain limbic nucleus, facilitates SIA through its downstream targets in the lateral hypothalamic area (LHA) of mice. Taking advantage of transsynaptic viral-genetic, optogenetic, and chemogenetic techniques, we show that the dLS→LHA circuitry is sufficient to drive analgesia and is required for SIA. Furthermore, our results reveal that the dLS→LHA pathway is opioid-dependent and modulates pain through the pro-nociceptive neurons in the rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM). Remarkably, we found that the inhibitory dLS neurons are recruited specifically when the mice struggle to escape under restraint and, in turn, inhibit excitatory LHA neurons. As a result, the RVM neurons downstream of LHA are disengaged, thus suppressing nociception. Together, we delineate a poly-synaptic pathway that can transform escape behavior in mice under restraint to acute stress into analgesia.
ONE3A: one-against-all authentication model for smartphone using GAN network and optimization techniques
Authors: Eltoukhy Mohamed Meselhy , Gaber Tarek , Almazroi Abdulwahab Ali , Mohamed Marwa F.
Published: April 2024

This study focuses on addressing computational limits in smartphones by proposing an efficient authentication model that enables implicit authentication without requiring additional hardware and incurring less computational cost. The research explores various wrapper feature selection strategies and classifiers to enhance authentication accuracy while considering smartphone limitations such as hardware constraints, battery life, and memory size. However, the available dataset is small; thus, it cannot support a general conclusion. In this article, a novel implicit authentication model for smartphone users is proposed to address the one-against-all classification problem in smartphone authentication. This model depends on the integration of the conditional tabular generative adversarial network (CTGAN) to generate synthetic data to address the imbalanced dataset and a new proposed feature selection technique based on the Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA). The model was evaluated using a public dataset (RHU touch mobile keystroke dataset), and the results showed that the WOA with the random forest (RF) classifier achieved the best reduction rate compared to the Harris Hawks Optimization (HHO) algorithm. Additionally, its classification accuracy was found to be the best in mobile user authentication from their touch behavior data. WOA-RF achieved an average accuracy of 99.62 ± 0.40% with a reduction rate averaging 87.85% across ten users, demonstrating its effectiveness in smartphone authentication.
A comprehensive dataset on biomechanics and motor control during human walking with discrete mechanical perturbations
Authors: Lorenz Dana L. , van den Bogert Antonie J.
Published: April 2024

Background

Humans have a remarkable capability to maintain balance while walking. There is, however, a lack of publicly available research data on reactive responses to destabilizing perturbations during gait.

Methods

Here, we share a comprehensive dataset collected from 10 participants who experienced random perturbations while walking on an instrumented treadmill. Each participant performed six 5-min walking trials at a rate of 1.2 m/s, during which rapid belt speed perturbations could occur during the participant’s stance phase. Each gait cycle had a 17% probability of being perturbed. The perturbations consisted of an increase of belt speed by 0.75 m/s, delivered with equal probability at 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, or 80% of the stance phase. Data were recorded using motion capture with 25 markers, eight inertial measurement units (IMUs), and electromyography (EMG) from the tibialis anterior (TA), soleus (SOL), lateral gastrocnemius (LG), rectus femoris (RF), vastus lateralis (VL), vastus medialis (VM), biceps femoris (BF), and gluteus maximus (GM). The full protocol is described in detail.

Results

We provide marker trajectories, force plate data, EMG data, and belt speed information for all trials and participants. IMU data is provided for most participants. This data can be useful for identifying neural feedback control in human gait, biologically inspired control systems for robots, and the development of clinical applications.
How does the neighborhood of annual or perennial species affect the first one hundred days of the establishment of grasses?
Authors: Lavarello Herbin Agustina , Gatti María Laura , Golluscio Rodolfo Ángel
Published: April 2024

Pastures that include annual and perennial grasses can play a strategic role in increasing the sustainability of temperate livestock systems. However, the impacts of the competition between annual and perennial genetically improved forage species on pastures has scarcely been studied. We evaluated the early dynamics of tillering, carbon partitioning and both intra- and interspecific competition in – or between – an annual (Bromus willdenowii; prairie grass; Bw) and a perennial (Dactylis glomerata; orchard grass; Dg) C3 grass species. We sowed 24 0.18 m2 microplots in May 2008. Each microplot constituted an experimental unit and contained five sowing lines spaced 0.175 m apart. On three of the lines, we sowed different combinations of the mentioned grasses, while on the two lines between them, we sowed red clover (Trifolium pratense). We randomly applied a factorial array of eight treatments—2 species (Dg vs. Bw) × 2 types of competition (intra vs. interspecific) × 2 levels of winter nitrogen fertilization (0 vs. 170 kg of N ha-1)—designed in three complete random blocks. Fertilization did not have any significant effect on any species. The evaluation period lasted 109 days after sowing (das), separated into three phases (0-53 das, 59-90 das and 90-109 das). The variables recorded were aerial biomass (leaves, sheets and senescent material), root biomass and tiller density per species. As expected, annual Bw inhibited the growth of perennial Dg at the latest stage of establishment but surprisingly promoted it at the earliest stage. This work suggested that a low initial density of an annual species should optimize the initial facilitating effect of the annual species on the perennial species with its subsequent inhibitory effect.
Abandono en carreras de la Educación Superior Técnico-Profesional: Un análisis de la experiencia institucional y expectativas de sus estudiantes
Authors: Fonseca Grandón Gonzalo , Parra Venegas Andrea , García de Magalhaes-Calvet Bernardita , Oñate Vargas Diego
Published: April 2024

Este artículo detalla los hallazgos de un estudio sobre las experiencias de estudiantes que abandonaron sus carreras en una institución de Educación Superior Técnico-Profesional (ESTP) en Chile. Se efectuó una investigación empírica, cualitativa, apoyada en la información recogida en 18 grupos focales que involucraron la participación de 78 estudiantes, todos los cuales cursaron carreras pertenecientes a seis áreas formativas, con distintos niveles de avance al momento del abandono (primer año, segundo, tercer año o más). El estudio creó un marco interpretativo para comprender las trayectorias académicas de estudiantes menos considerados en la literatura. Los resultados representan las vivencias del estudiantado desde que ingresa a su institución hasta que decide abandonarla y se enfrenta a las expectativas posteriores a dicha decisión. Para ello, se identifican y describen cuatro fases propuestas a partir de un análisis de contenido: ingreso y expectativa, experiencia institucional, abandono y expectativas ex post facto. Se concluye que los estudiantes de carreras de ESTP son especialmente frágiles ante eventos inesperados, como la pandemia de COVID-19 o los desafíos que impone la tríada familia, trabajo y estudio. Se subraya la importancia de cambiar la perspectiva que considera al abandono como un fracaso, y se sugiere que esa decisión puede generar nuevas oportunidades y perspectivas que permiten la realización de la persona en otros planos.
La clase de religión en el sistema escolar de Chile: Problemas y perspectivas desde una aproximación filosófica
Authors: Galioto Carmelo , Bellolio Cristóbal
Published: April 2024

La presencia de la religión en el currículum de un sistema escolar público es un tema controvertido. Este artículo propone una hermenéutica de la principal herramienta normativa que regula la presencia de la religión en las escuelas y colegios de Chile, el Decreto 924/83, para identificar sus principales aspectos problemáticos y, a través de argumentos filosóficos, vislumbrar nuevas perspectivas. Se identifican específicamente tres puntos críticos que surgen de la interpretación del Decreto 924/83 en su texto y puesta en práctica: exclusivismo, confesionalismo y (posible) analfabetismo religioso. Para superar estos problemas, se propone un nuevo abordaje que plantea la clase de religión como un bien educativo universal, obligatorio y no confesional. En conclusión, se ofrecen algunas implicancias para futuras investigaciones académicas y las políticas públicas respecto de la presencia de la clase de religión en el sistema escolar de Chile.La presencia de la religión en el currículum de un sistema escolar público es un tema controvertido. Este artículo propone una hermenéutica de la principal herramienta normativa que regula la presencia de la religión en las escuelas y colegios de Chile, el Decreto 924/83, para identificar sus principales aspectos problemáticos y, a través de argumentos filosóficos, vislumbrar nuevas perspectivas. Se identifican específicamente tres puntos críticos que surgen de la interpretación del Decreto 924/83 en su texto y puesta en práctica: exclusivismo, confesionalismo y (posible) analfabetismo religioso. Para superar estos problemas, se propone un nuevo abordaje que plantea la clase de religión como un bien educativo universal, obligatorio y no confesional. En conclusión, se ofrecen algunas implicancias para futuras investigaciones académicas y las políticas públicas respecto de la presencia de la clase de religión en el sistema escolar de Chile.
Incidence and Predictors of Difficult Intubation in Patients Undergoing Thyroid Surgery
Authors: Darngawn Lalengkima Hmar , Nadarajan Veena , Pradeep Vimal
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Thyroid enlargement is considered a risk factor for challenging direct laryngoscopy and intubation. Airway management in patients with thyroid swelling presents unique challenges, requiring thorough preparation for potential difficult airways. Although airway management in the overall population has been thoroughly researched, there is a scarcity of literature specifically addressing airway management in individuals who have thyroid enlargement. Aim: To evaluate the incidence of difficult intubation in patients undergoing thyroid surgery, utilising the Intubation Difficulty Score (IDS). Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 258 patients in the Department of Anaesthesiology, Government TD Medical College, Alappuzha, Kerala, India. Various parameters including Modified Mallampati score, neck circumference, Body Mass Index (BMI), inter-incisor distance, retrognathia, neck extension, thyromental distance, tracheal deviation, and tracheal compression were assessed for all patients with thyroid swelling. The incidence of difficult endotracheal intubation was analysed using the IDS and the time taken for successful intubation was recorded. Data were presented as mean±standard deviation (SD), frequencies, and percentages. The association between variables was analysed using the Chi-square test. Results: Thyroid disorders were more common in females 220 (85.3%) than in males 38 (14.7%). The variables such as BMI, Mallampati score, thyromental distance, inter-incisor distance, and neck mobility were not found to be associated with difficult intubation. However, increased neck circumference (>43 cm) was statistically significant (p-value=0.007) in relation to difficult intubation. According to IDS, 94.2% of patients had easy intubation, while 5.8% experienced difficult intubation. In terms of intubation times, 72.5% of patients were intubated within 10-15 seconds, 24.4% within 16-20 seconds, and 3.1% took longer than 20 seconds. Conclusion: Thyroid surgery itself is not an independent predictive factor for difficult intubation. Among the predictive factors in the study population, a neck circumference greater than 43 cm was found to be associated with difficult endotracheal intubation during thyroid surgery
The Dilemma of People Experiencing Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) on Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) Teams—A Scoping Literature Review: Can ACT help people with BPD?
Authors: Osagie Josiah , Bergmans Yvonne , Kassam Aly , Beder Michaela , Ritts Madeleine , Zaheer Juveria , Wren Kate , Button Melissa , Kirwan Nicole , Levy Matthew , Law Samuel
Published: April 2024

People with borderline personality disorder (BPD) are typically excluded from assertive community treatment (ACT) teams, the intensive model that typically serves people with serious psychotic and mood disorders. Nevertheless, many people with BPD are on ACT teams for clinical comorbidity or other reasons. Suitability and ability of ACT to provide their care is understudied. Our scoping literature review shows a limited body of research, with strong but mixed opinions on this dilemma, but notable incorporation of training and skills (e.g., dialectical behavioral therapy) into ACT may improve care for this population whose presence on ACT teams is a clinical reality.
Effect of Retort Processing on the Microbiological, Sensory Evaluation and Physicochemical properties of the Ready-To-Eat Grilled Beef
Authors: Wan Nur Zahidah W.Z.  , Raja Arief Deli R.N.  , A. Noor Zainah , M. Norhida Arnieza , H. Mohd Fakhri
Published: April 2024

Retort processing is a method of preserving food by heating it in hermetically sealed containers like cans, glass jars and retortable pouches.
Objective: The objective of this paper is to look at the effect of retort processing on grilled beef in retort pouches for microbiological, physicochemical, and sensory quality. 
Materials and Methods: Ready-to-eat (RTE) grilled beef was thermally processed at different Fo values (sterilization unit) of 8, 10 and 12 at the temperature of 121 °C. Before the thermal process, beef was marinated and grilled at 200 °C, for 20 min. The filled and sealed pouches were then subjected to retort processing for optimizing the Fo value at process temperature. Grilled beef without a retort process is subjected to a control sample. The effect of different Fo values on the microbiological (total plate count, yeast& mould, Ecoli, coliform. Salmonella and staph aureus) sensory evaluation and physicochemical properties were evaluated.
Results: Results on the microbial analysis showed that there is no growth of bacteria for all Fo values tested. The sensory evaluation scored the highest for the product processed at 121 °C, Fo 12 for overall acceptance attributes. For moisture analysis, as the Fo value increases the moisture content decreases. Retort processed grilled beef had significantly lower L*, a* and b* values as the Fo value increases.
Conclusion: It is concluded that grilled beef product retorted to Fo 12, 121 °C, had acceptable microbiological limits, highest score of organoleptic evaluation and acceptable physicochemical characteristics.
Gender Perspectives in Agriculture and Livestock Production: Insights from Garo Tribal Farm Households in West Garo Hills: Meghalaya
Authors: Das Tarun Kumar , Borah Sagarika , Singh Monica
Published: April 2024

This study was conducted in two villages situated in the West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya in 2023, focusing on a sample of 60 tribal farm families. Respondents were randomly selected from the selected villages. Statistical analyses were performed using frequencies and percentage. The findings revealed that 80.0% of households had a nuclear family structure, with 61.67% being led by males. Agriculture was the primary occupation of 51.67% of households, and 33.33% reported an annual household income ranging from Rs. 85,001 to Rs. 150,000. Additionally, 78.33% of households possessed areca nut orchards and 60.0% utilized mobile phones for communication. Credit facilities were available to 31.67% of respondents. Regarding information sources, 98.33% of males and 96.67% of females relied on friends and neighbours for agricultural information. Decision-making was reported to be joint in 65.0% of households. Crop harvesting, which was primarily performed by females (55.0%), and the selling of harvests during financial needs, which were handled by males (35.0%) and females (38.33%), were identified as patterns. Revenue management from sales was undertaken by males (36.67%) and jointly (33.33%). In livestock-related decisions, 63.0% reported joint decision-making, and the grazing of animals was managed by children within households (68.33%). For healthcare, 63.33% of independent males consulted the veterinary department during instances of animal disease. Joint decisions were made for the purchase and sale of animals (81.76%). The present findings contribute valuable insights into gender in agricultural discourse, guiding informed and inclusive development in the North East Region. 
Practitioner Summary: The study was on 60 small Garo tribal farm families actively engaged in both agricultural and livestock activities. Study revealed that women has integral role in agriculture and livestocks then men. Joint decision making in agriculture collaborative farm management, males often takes lead in financial management and certain post-harvest processes.
Practical Teaching Materials for Transformational Geometry Based on Visuals Ethnomathematics for SMA Toraja Class IX
Authors: Ba'ru Yusem , Arismunandar . , Anshari .
Published: April 2024

The objective of this research and development is twofold: firstly, to analyse the level of validity of teaching materials for transformation geometry based on visual ethnomathematics of Toraja carvings in Senior High School; and secondly, to analyse the level of practicality of teaching materials for transformation geometry based on visual ethnomathematics of Toraja carvings in Senior High School. The subjects in this development research consisted of three validators: linguists, material experts and media experts, as well as three mathematics teachers and 31 students at SMAN I Tana Toraja. Data collection was conducted through observation, interview sheets, teaching material validation sheets, teacher response questionnaires and student responses. Data analysis techniques were employed using both descriptive qualitative and descriptive quantitative approaches. The results of the qualitative descriptive data analysis yielded a number of suggestions for improvement from expert validation, teachers and students. The quantitative descriptive analysis revealed that the validation results from experts were of a very     high standard, with a value of 85.56 in terms of language, 85.16 in terms of material, and  81.17 in terms of learning media. Moreover, the practicality of the developed teaching materials was rated as "very practical" by both teachers and students, with scores of 88.54 and 85.06, respectively.
Pattern of Arrhythmia among Ischemic Stroke Patients on 24-hour Ambulatory Electrocardiography (Holter ECG) in South-South Nigeria
Authors: Nwafor Chibuike Eze , Briggs Otonye
Published: April 2024

Background: The 24-hour Holter electrocardiogram is a valuable tool for the identification of ischaemic alterations, cardiac arrhythmias in hypertension, stroke and other cardiovascular conditions. Electrocardiographic (ECG) abnormalities and cardiac arrhythmias have been detected in 50% of stroke patients. However, literature in this area of research is limited in our environment. This study is aimed at describing the pattern of arrhythmia observed in patients with ischaemic stroke using 24-hour Holter ECG in our locality.
Methods: A total of 22 stroke subjects whose age ranged from 41 and 83 years were evaluated in GoodHeart Medical Consultants hospital for 24-hour ambulatory ECG (Holter ECG) from January 2015 – December 2016. The Holter ECG data was acquired using Schiller type (MT-101) Holter ECG machine.
Results: The study population consisted of 59.1% females and 40.9% males, with an average age of 66.95±12.32 years. Arrhythmias were more prevalent among females compared to males. However, bradycardia was more prevalent in males. Ventricular ectopics were the most common type of arrhythmia across both genders, with a higher prevalence in the older adult age group of 61-80 years.
Conclusion: The most common arrhythmia observed among the stroke subjects in Southern Nigeria is ventricular ectopics. This could be due to increase in age and severe neurological deficit which are independent predictors of arrhythmia onset and this was notably seen among the older subjects in the study. Extended cardiac monitoring such as Holter ECG is a well-accepted method for the identification of ECG abnormalities and the implementation of prompt treatment to reduce mortality.
Fixed Point and Coincidence Point Theorems in Dualistic Partial Metric Spaces
Authors: Ughade Manoj , Yadav Sheetal , Gourh Rahul , Shukla Manoj Kumar
Published: April 2024

In this paper, motivated by Fulga and Proca [1], we define the notion of dualistic E-contraction, generalized dualistic E-contraction, and Dass-Gupta dualistic rational E-contraction. We establish some new fixed-point theorems for E-contraction, generalized dualistic E-contraction, and Dass-Gupta dualistic rational E-contraction in a DPM space. Also, we define dualistic E\(\Delta\) -contraction, generalized dualistic E\(\Delta\)-contraction, and Dass-Gupta dualistic rational E\(\Delta\) -contraction. We establish some common fixed-point theorems for E\(\Delta\) -contraction, generalized dualistic E\(\Delta\)-contraction and Dass-Gupta dualistic rational E\(\Delta\)-contraction in the setting of DPM spaces. Our results extend and generalize some well-known results of [1] and [2]. We also provide an example that shows the usefulness of these contractions.
Mitigate the Impact of Various Abiotic Stress by Using Grafting in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) and Other Vegetables: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Faisal Muhammad , Kamran Muhammad , Arshad Abiha , Maqsood Muhammad Junaid , Rehman Komal , Usman Sama , Farooq Pakeeza
Published: April 2024

Grafting technology has developed as a promising alternative to slow traditional breeding methods for boosting abiotic stressor resistance, soil pathogen tolerance, and fruit vegetable output and quality. Tomato, cucumbers, watermelons, eggplants, muskmelon and sweet papers have been grafted commercially to increase plant tolerance to factors such as salt, drought, waterlogging, the heavy metal toxicity, extreme temperatures, and variations in vegetable crop yield and quality. The goal of this study was to evaluate the research on the effect of grafting in reducing abiotic stressors and increasing vegetable crop production and quality. At different phases of culture, abiotic and biotic stressors harm tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.), a significant vegetable crop globally. Drought, salt, floods, severe temperatures, and heavy metals may alter plant morphology, physiology, and biochemistry, affecting crop development, production, and quality. Grafting technology is an excellent alternative to delayed breeding operations to reduce biotic and abiotic stressors. Grafted tomatoes have higher osmolytes, antioxidant enzymes, photosynthesis, which improves plant growth and fruit harvests and makes them more tolerant to abiotic challenges. Additionally, tomato grafting on proper rootstocks enhances fruit nutritional value, including lycopene, β-carotene, ascorbic acid, and proteins. This information may help researchers and producers improve vegetable quality, especially under abiotic stress.
Management of Inadvertent Dural Puncture Following Thoracic Epidural anesthesia for Mastectomy: A Case Report
Authors: Nkadam Monday Nwizor , Imasuen Sunday , Ijah Rex Friday Ogoronte Alderton
Published: April 2024

Background: Thoracic Epidural has been successfully used to administer anesthesia for mastectomy. However inadvertent dural puncture is a major complication occurring in about 0.19 to 3.6% during epidural anesthesia, even in very experienced hands with need for immediate and proper management. We present a case of mastectomy done under thoracic epidural anesthesia following inadvertent dural puncture, using same interspace.
Case Presentation: A 62-year-old known hypertensive female patient with good drug compliance, weighing 68kg and 1.68m in height with stage IV right breast cancer. She underwent modified radical right mastectomy, under thoracic epidural anesthesia administered at the T8/T9 interspace using an 18G Tuohy needle. Although there was inadvertent dural puncture, patient recovered without untoward effects.
Conclusion: Epidural anesthesia can be undertaken in the same interspace following accidental dural puncture if necessary precautions are taken.
Study on Spatial Distribution and Occurrence of Pink Boll Worm on Cotton
Authors: Rajashekar Kanjarla , Rajashekar Jampala , Chauhan Sreedhar
Published: April 2024

An investigation was carried out to “Study on spatial distribution and occurrence of pink boll worm on cotton” under Agricultural Research Station (ARS), Adilabad, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University during Kharif, 2018 and 2019. The main objective of this study was to determine distance and migration of pink boll worm adults from ginning mill to cropping area of different location through GIS tools and the results revealed that spatial distribution of pink bollworm was found to be low in the villages which are 15 kms away from the ginning mill i.e. pheromone catches (1515 and 1267) and PBW larvae/20 bolls (13.76 % and 15.00%) and villages which are 5kms away from the ginning mill was found to be high incidence  i.e. pheromone catches (2185 and 1929) and PBW larvae/20 bolls (38.14 % and 28.10%) during Kharif  2018 and 2019, respectively.
Environmental Aerobic Bacterial Associated with Infectious and General Solid Waste: Screening at the “Université des Montagnes” Teaching Hospital Waste Accumulation Sites
Authors: Kom Fotso Victoire , Youté O’Neal Dorsel , Yawat Djogang Anselme Michel , Ditchou Nganso Steve Carole , Kougang Esther Guladys , Tamatcho Kweyang Blandine Pulchérie , Nwobegahay Julius , Nana Feukeu Adolarice , Deumi Monthé Valere Igor , Alactio Tangueu Vanessa Ornella , Fotsing Kwetche Pierre René
Published: April 2024

Background: Waste is a source of potentially dangerous microorganisms for users of healthcare facilities, and its accumulation is a risk factor for infectious agent dissemination.
Objective: The first aim of the present study was to identify and quantify aerobic bacteria around solid waste accumulation sites at the “Université des Montagnes” Teaching Hospital. The second one was to assess bacteria susceptibility to common conventional antibacterial agents.
Methods: Soil samples and airborne bacteria were collected at various distances from the target solid waste accumulation sites. Bacteria isolation and susceptibility tests were thereafter conducted according to standard protocols.
Results: Isolated organisms (123 bacterial isolates) included Staphylococcus spp (48%), Gram-positive rods (32%) and Gram-negative rods (20%). Polymorphism and bacterial loads were highest at the sampling locations closer to the accumulation sites and decreased with increasing distances from these sites. Overall findings revealed that variations of polymorphism and bacterial loads is likely associated with anthropogenic activities. In addition, susceptibility rates for Staphylococcus were high.
Conclusion: Together with the overall bacterial population distribution trends, the high susceptibility rates recorded deserve better understanding in future research initiatives for optimal hospital hygiene.
Assessment of Flood Vulnerability Levels in the Lower Orashi River, Niger Delta Region, Nigeria
Authors: Bisong Andy Etta , Miepamo Willabo , Ndinyenma Wike Princewill , Douye Wodu Pere-Ere
Published: April 2024

Flooding is one of the most frequent and widespread of all environmental hazards and of various types and sizes. This study investigated the flood vulnerability levels in the lower Orashi River, Niger Delta Region, Nigeria. The study considered the landuse, soil texture, elevation, slope, stream power index (SPI), rainfall, drainage density and proximity to river channels as factors determining flood. The components of these factors were reclassified as lowly, moderately and highly vulnerable areas with assigned numbers 1, 2 and 3 respectively. All the maps were overlaid using the UNION module for the final flood vulnerability levels. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were used in the data analysis. Results showed that the very low flood vulnerability levels covered spatial extent of 244.4 sq km (7.31%), low flood vulnerability covered 901.31 sq km (26.95%), moderate flood vulnerability level 1240.18 sq km (37.08%), high flood vulnerability level 846.47 sq km (25.31%) and very high had 112.11 sq km (3.35%). It can be concluded that more than 65% of the entire lower Orashi River are highly and moderately vulnerable to flood. It is therefore recommended among others that periodic studies should be carried out in lower Orashi River to monitor the factors that can cause flood in the area.
Studies on Physico-chemical and Sensory Aspects of Guava Lassi
Authors: Girguse Mamta P. , Wankhade Bhavana R. , Atkare V.G. , Motghare A.B.
Published: April 2024

The present investigation entitled “Preparation of cow milk lassi blended with guava (Psidium guajava) pulp” was conducted at Section of Animal Husbandry and Dairy Science, Nagpur. An effort was made to find out the optimum level of guava pulp in the preparation of lassi, with main objectives to evaluate the product by sensory evaluation, determination of physico-chemical composition and to calculate cost of production. Some of the finding emerged from the present investigation are summarized as follows. In view of above objective present study was carried out with five treatments including control T1 and lassi prepared from cow milk with different level of guava pulp i.e. 5 %, 10 %, 15 %, 20 % in treatment T2, T3, T4 and T5, respectively. From the investigation it was observed that, the mean score of flavour of lassi in treatment T4 was highest (8.50) and lowest in T5 (5.50). The average score for colour and appearance of lassi was highest in T4 (8.50) and lowest in T5 (5.75). The average score for body and texture of lassi was highest in T4 (8.50) and lowest in T5 (5.25). The sensory evaluation for (overall acceptability) carried out by the judges, showed that lassi prepared by blending with 15 part of guava pulp (T4)8.50 as most acceptable treatment. This superiority was found due to addition of 15 percent of guava pulp.
The Pervasive Threat of Fake News and Disinformation in the Digital Age: Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Nallasamy Anisha , Rajput Manju , Wani Zahid Ahmad , Dar Maryam Khazir , Aakanksha . , Fayaz Sheikh Hibban , S Subiksha , Simon Naveen H
Published: April 2024

In the dynamic landscape of the digital age, the proliferation of fake news and disinformation has emerged as a critical concern, casting a shadow over the foundations of public opinion and eroding trust in journalism. This short communication explores the intricate role that media plays in the dissemination of fake news, highlighting the far-reaching consequences on public perception and the integrity of journalistic practices. It delves into the definition and mechanisms of fake news, examining its propagation through social media algorithms, echo chambers, rapid dissemination, and manipulation tactics. The paper also discusses the role of both traditional media and online platforms in amplifying fake news and analyzes its consequences on public opinion, democracy, and public health. Furthermore, it explores challenges in countering fake news, including the volume and speed of information, evolving tactics of disinformation, algorithmic challenges, and ethical considerations in content moderation. Finally, the paper presents solutions and recommendations to mitigate the impact of fake news, including enhancing media literacy, promoting responsible journalism practices, implementing effective fact-checking mechanisms, leveraging technology, and advocating for regulatory measures. It concludes by emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts across sectors to address the challenges posed by fake news and disinformation in the digital era.
AIR SEBAGAI SUBYEK DALAM DESAIN ARSITEKTUR (Kasus telaah: Istana Alhambra, Granada)
Authors: Laurens Joyce M. , Hendrayan Esterlita Devi
Published: April 2024

Air adalah sesuatu yang tidak dapat dilepaskan dalam segala aspek kehidupan manusia, mulai dari awal kehidupan, kelahiran, pertumbuhan, perjuangan hidup hingga kematian. Dalam wujud apapun air mempunyai karakter dan potensi untuk meningkatkan kualitas hidup manusia atau merusakkannya. Air begitu responsif terhadap kekuatan alam seperti, badai, hujan lebat, kilat dan petir; ia dapat dengan tiba-tiba berubah dari keadaan tenang menjadi kekuatan baru yang mampu membangkitkan emosi tertentu. Dengan mengenal karakter dan potensi inilah, maka air dapat menjadi komponen dinamis dalam arsitektur, dapat berperan sebagai subjek dalam desain komposisi arsitektural, bukan hanya semata-mata sebagai objek guna memenuhi kebutuhan fisik manusia saja. Air dapat menjadi urat nadi dalam komposisi arsitektur. Melalui telaah desain istana Alhambra, yang dikenal sebagai locus classicus bagi penggunaan air dalam desain arsitektur, maka kita dapat melakukan refleksi apakah telah menempatkan air sebagai subyek dalam desain arsitektur, atau hanya sebagai suatu rutinitas saja.