bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
REVITALIZING INDIA'S HOUSING DREAMS: NAVIGATING CHALLENGES BEYOND BAILOUTS THROUGH STRESSED FUNDS
Authors: Prashar Rekee , Tomer Aditya
Published: January 2025

India’s real estate market, particularly the residential sector, has grappled with significant challenges in recent years. Issues such as liquidity crises, the implementation of real estate regulations, the Goods and Services Tax (GST), and demonetization have compounded the sector’s woes, leading to over 1,600 stalled housing projects. These include projects classified as non-performing assets (NPAs) or admitted into insolvency proceedings. To address these concerns, the Indian government established a ₹25,000 crore Stress Fund. This initiative aims to revive 4.58 lakh housing units nationwide through a Special Window System.The Special Window facilitates funding for projects with capital commitments exceeding ₹540 crore and registered under the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) with a positive net worth. By prioritizing affordable and middle-income housing projects, the fund seeks to rejuvenate the real estate sector while generating employment and alleviating stress across other industries in the Indian economy.However, significant gaps persist. Projects outside RERA’s purview or entangled in legal disputes at higher courts remain excluded. This limitation leaves numerous housing projects ineligible for support, raising concerns about whether the Stress Fund can effectively revive the sector. A critical assessment of this funding scheme is essential to understand its potential, limitations, and impact on stakeholders, including industry players and homebuyers.This study employs a doctrinal approach, emphasizing analytical reasoning to evaluate the Stress Fund’s framework. By exploring its benefits and addressing its shortcomings, the study aims to propose actionable remedies to ensure a comprehensive revival of India’s stalled housing projects.
Factors deterring African SMEs from adopting sustainable practices
Authors: Ayanda Sithole Mbali
Published: January 2025

The objective of this study is to identify the factors that prevented and encouraged Ghanian
SMEs from adopting sustainable business practices (SBP) in their enterprises. Secondly, this
study aims to examine the discussion amongst academics and practitioners on sustainability in
SMEs based in Ghana. To fulfil this objective this study adopted a qualitative research
philosophy and used a systematic literature review (SLR) to analyse the literature discussing
this phenomenon. Only eleven articles were included in this study’s sample based on the search
criteria established in this study. Furthermore, using thematic analysis, this study identified four
themes within the sample of articles: supply chains were the most prevalent topic, sustainability
reporting (SR) was the second most prevalent topic, whereas green strategy and sustainable
business practices (SBPs) were the least prevalent topics. Lastly, this study found that there was
a dearth of literature focusing on green strategy and SBPs in SMEs based in Ghana. As a result,
this study recommends that more studies should be conducted that explore how green strategy
and SBPs may be implemented in SMEs based in Ghana.
How Escaping the Middle-Income Trap: Key Factors for Indonesia's Growth?
Authors: Marissa Feny , Bashir Abdul , Igamo Alghifari Mahdi , Sari Dwi Darma Puspita , Apriani Deassy , Hamidi Ichsan
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the complex interplay between human development index, foreign direct investment, and investment efficiency in driving economic growth. Utilized time-series data during 2000 to 2022, sourced from the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank. Employing the ARDL model. The findings reveal a strong positive correlation between HDI and economic growth, highlighting the critical role of investments in education, health, and social welfare. While FDI significantly contributes to economic growth through technology transfer and productivity enhancement, the study surprisingly finds limited evidence of a direct link between investment efficiency and economic growth. This suggests that factors such as institutional quality and innovation play a more dominant role. These findings have crucial implications for Indonesia, which faces the challenge of escaping the middle-income trap. Prioritizing human development, attracting high-quality FDI, and fostering a conducive investment climate through institutional reforms are crucial for sustainable and inclusive growth. By investing in human capital, promoting technological innovation, and effectively leveraging FDI, Indonesia can overcome the middle-income trap and achieve long-term economic prosperity.
RESPOSTAS FISIOLÓGICAS DE PLANTAS IN VITRO SOB ESTRESSE SALINO, HÍDRICO E TÉRMICO
Authors: NAGEL JORDANA CAROLINE
Published: January 2025

As mudanças climáticas e a degradação ambiental intensificam os desafios da agricultura moderna, exigindo plantas mais resistentes aos estresses abióticos, como salinidade, déficit hídrico e variações térmicas. Este livro aborda como o cultivo in vitro oferece ferramentas essenciais para estudar e compreender as respostas fisiológicas das plantas a essas condições adversas.
A obra explora os impactos desses estresses sobre o metabolismo vegetal, detalhando a redução no crescimento, alterações na fotossíntese, instabilidade das membranas celulares e produção de espécies reativas de oxigênio (EROs). Ao mesmo tempo, analisa os mecanismos adaptativos que incluem a produção de osmólitos, como prolina e açúcares solúveis, e a ativação de enzimas antioxidantes, como superóxido dismutase e peroxidase, essenciais para mitigar danos oxidativos.
Com base em uma revisão de estudos experimentais, o livro apresenta como o estresse salino reduz a absorção de água e nutrientes, o estresse hídrico afeta a turgidez celular, e o estresse térmico compromete a eficiência fotossintética. Em todos os casos, são detalhadas estratégias de mitigação e tolerância, como o uso de proteínas de choque térmico e adaptações bioquímicas.
Relevante tanto para pesquisadores quanto para profissionais da biotecnologia agrícola, este livro destaca a aplicação prática dos conhecimentos para desenvolver cultivares geneticamente aprimoradas, capazes de enfrentar condições climáticas extremas e assegurar a sustentabilidade agrícola em longo prazo.
An observational comparative study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pregabalin and gabapentin in neuropathic pain- at a Teritiary Care Centre
Authors: Vaishnav S R  , Bhagya S Kumar  , Rabiya Shajihan  , Dr. Chitra C Nair  , Dr. Beena P
Published: January 2025

Background: Millions of people around the world suffer from Neuropathic pain (Nep), a prevalent and debilitating condition. Treatment for NeP typically includes anticonvulsants, antidepressants, opioids, topical medications, and local anesthetics. Although Pregabalin and Gabapentin are commonly used for this purpose, there is a lack of conclusive evidence supporting their efficacy. NeP significantly diminishes patients' quality of life. This study aims to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of Gabapentin and Pregabalin in treating patients with NeP.

Methods: Among a total of 100 patients 50 patients (Group A) were given Gabapentin and 50 Patients (Group B) were given Pregabalin. The efficacy of drug was measured on the basis of decrease in NeP based on Douleur Neuropathique 4 questions (DN4) pain scale measured at baseline, after one month and after two months. Adverse drug reaction (ADR) reported by the patient or observed by the clinician during the study was reported using ADR reporting form.

Result: The mean reduction of the neuropathic pain score in Group A from baseline to 2 months was 2.15, while in Group B it was 3.49. Hence, pregabalin showed comparable pain reduction to gabapentin at the end of the 2-months study.

Conclusion: Pregabalin 100 mg once daily brought better improvement of symptoms and signs than Gabapentin 300 mg administered once daily. The study found that Pregabalin is a better drug for the treatment of neuropathic pain than Gabapentin. Gabapentin had fewer adverse effects than Pregabalin.
Thalassemia: A lifelong battle with hemoglobin deficiency
Authors: Madhu Kushwaha  , Turdaliev samatbek Orozalievich  , Ansy Abdul Rasheed  , Gaurav kushwaha  , Asraful alom  , Mohammad ubaid ur rehman  , Shahid afridi  , Akshay parasram chautmal
Published: January 2025

Thalassemia is a heterogeneous group of inherited disorders of haemoglobin caused by reduced or absent production of one or more of the globin chains. They are the commonest single gene disease worldwide. The disease was first described by Thomas Cooley (a paediatrician from Detroit, USA) in 1925. the two common types, majority of β thalassaemias are caused by point mutations, while most of the α thalassaemias result from gene deletions.The resulting imbalance in globin synthesis is responsible for the ineffective erythropoiesi sand hemolysis typically observed in the thalassemia syndromes.About 3.2 % of the world’s population (152 million people) carry β-thalassemia genes.The initial symptoms of the disease appear in the latter half of the first year of life, when the synthesis of γ-chains is not replaced by the synthesis of β-chains.The improved survival of patients with thalassemia major has been attributed to improvement in transfusion therapy, better understanding of mechanisms of organ damage from iron, more effective iron chelation, the availability of magnetic resonance for the evaluation of cardiac iron overload, and the referral of patients to centers of excellence.
Preferensi Tontonan Drama Korea dan Drama Lokal di Kalangan Mahasiswa Fakultas Ilmu Sosial dan Ilmu Politik Universitas Pattimura
Authors: Miranti Alya , Waliulu Yuniar S.
Published: January 2025

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk bagaimana motif drama Korea lebih diminati dibandingkan drama lokal oleh Mahasiswa Fakultas Ilmu Sosial Dan Ilmu Politik Universitas Pattimura. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian kualitatif deskriptif dengan menggunakan 7 informan dari Mahasiswa Fakultas Ilmu Sosial dan Ilmu Politik Universitas Pattimura Ambon yang menonton drama. Hasil penelitian menunjukan, Mahasiswa Fakultas Ilmu Sosial dan Ilmu Politik Universitas Pattimura cenderung lebih memilih menonton drama Korea dibandingkan drama lokal. Preferensi ini dipengaruhi oleh kemampuan drama Korea dalam menghadirkan detail budaya Korea, informasi mendalam tentang topik khusus, dan pengembangan karakter yang kompleks yang menginspirasi perubahan positif dalam kehidupan mereka. Meskipun begitu, beberapa Mahasiswa merasa bahwa drama Korea kurang relevan dengan realitas budaya Indonesia. Sementara itu, drama lokal, meskipun kurang diminati secara umum, tetap penting dalam memperkaya konteks sosial dan budaya lokal, namun perlu peningkatan kualitas produksi dan pengembangan cerita untuk bisa bersaing lebih baik. Penelitian ini menyoroti pentingnya memahami preferensi dan motif di balik pemilihan tontonan untuk meningkatkan daya tarik konten lokal dan keterlibatan penonton secara lebih efektif.
Analisis Swot Dalam Menuju Desa Tangguh Bencana di Kecamatan Bulak, Surabaya
Authors: Sulistyowati Eny , Saadah Ummi
Published: January 2025

The impact of the economy on community vulnerability following a disaster is significant. This research aims to evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges of community empowerment programs in areas affected by tidal floods in the Bulak sub-district of Surabaya, as well as the implementation of programs aimed at developing disaster-resilient villages. The study utilizes a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods, including questionnaires and in-depth interviews. The findings indicate a notable increase in people's awareness of the importance of family savings as a means of disaster preparedness, despite some respondents experiencing a decline in income. However, the skills training initiatives conducted by the local government have shown limited effectiveness in empowering the community to establish independent businesses. An analysis of alternative training options offered to the community reveals that the ease of accessing raw materials, modest initial capital requirements, proficiency in the production process, and market opportunities are key factors that attract community interest in entrepreneurial endeavors. Encouraging active participation of village communities in areas impacted by tidal floods, particularly in mitigating disaster risks associated with the local environment, can be achieved through the establishment of self-managed disaster-resilient villages with full government support..Â Dampak ekonomi terhadap kerentanan masyarakat pasca bencana sangat signifikan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengevaluasi kekuatan, kelemahan, peluang, dan tantangan dari program pemberdayaan masyarakat di daerah yang terkena banjir rob di Kecamatan Bulak, Surabaya, serta implementasi program-program yang bertujuan untuk mengembangkan desa tangguh bencana. Studi ini menggunakan kombinasi metode kuantitatif dan kualitatif, termasuk kuesioner dan wawancara mendalam. Temuan menunjukkan peningkatan yang signifikan dalam kesadaran masyarakat akan pentingnya tabungan keluarga sebagai upaya kesiapsiagaan bencana, meskipun beberapa responden mengalami penurunan pendapatan. Namun, program pelatihan keterampilan yang dilakukan oleh pemerintah daerah belum terlalu efektif dalam memberdayakan masyarakat untuk mendirikan usaha mandiri. Analisis terhadap opsi pelatihan alternatif yang ditawarkan kepada masyarakat menunjukkan bahwa faktor-faktor kemudahan akses bahan baku, persyaratan modal awal yang terjangkau, penguasaan proses produksi, dan peluang pasar menjadi faktor kunci yang menarik minat masyarakat untuk berwirausaha. Mendorong partisipasi aktif masyarakat desa di daerah yang terkena banjir rob, khususnya dalam mitigasi risiko bencana yang terkait dengan lingkungan lokal, dapat dicapai melalui pembentukan desa tangguh bencana yang dikelola secara mandiri dengan dukungan penuh dari pemerintah..Keyword: SWOT, disaster resilient villages, tidal flood
Analisis Pengelolaan dan Pengendalian Piutang Pada Perumdam Tirta Dharma Purabaya Kabupaten Madiun
Authors: Aviska Aik , Hidayah Nurul
Published: January 2025

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis bagaimana pengelolaan dan pengendalian piutang yang dilakukan oleh Perusahaan Umum Daerah Air Minum Tirta Dharma Purabaya Kabupaten Madiun pada tahun 2020 – 2021, serta mengetahui tingkat efektivitas dalam penagihan piutangnya. Metode penelitian yang digunakan yaitu deskriptif kuantitatif dengan sumber data primer dan sekunder. Metode analisis yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini yaitu analisis rasio perputaran piutang (receivable turn over), rasio periode rata-rata pengumpulan piutang (average collection period), rasio tunggakan dan rasio penagihan. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian dapat disimpukan bahwa Perusahaan Umum Daerah Air Minum Tirta Dharma Purabaya Kabupaten madiun dilihat dari standar efektivitas pengelolaan piutang, tingkat perputaran piutang sangat efektif yaitu sebesar 8,8 kali pada tahun 2020 dan 8,5 kali pada tahun 2021, periode pengumpulan piutang tidak efektif yaitu selama 41 hari pada tahun 2020 dan 43 hari pada tahun 2021, rasio tunggakan sangat efektif yaitu sebesar 11% pada tahun 2020-2021 dan rasio penagihan efektif yaitu sebesar 89% pada tahun 2020-2021.
Science–tourism intersections onboard Arctic expedition cruise ships: Reflective insights from a fieldwork at the geographic North Pole
Authors: Varnajot Alix , Lépy Élise
Published: January 2025

In August 2023, we both embarked on an icebreaker cruise ship in order to conduct fieldwork with and among cruise passengers and together with four other scientists. Departing from Longyearbyen, Svalbard, this two-week ship-time fieldwork took us to the geographic North Pole, across the Arctic Ocean sea ice, and to several locations in northern Svalbard. While cruise vessels operating as platforms of opportunity for researchers are not new, cruise tourism in the polar regions has raised ethical and sustainable concerns in times of increasing awareness regarding climate change. In addition, cruises bringing together tourists and scientists are currently objects of vivid discussions both in academia and the media. Drawing from our ship-time fieldwork experience, we aim to contribute to these recent debates. Building on the work of Lamers et al. (2024), we argue that misunderstanding on the concept of platform of opportunity can lead to potentially poor data collection, scientists’ disappointment, and detrimental reputation for both science and tourism actors. We argue that carefully selecting research projects that align with the specificities of expedition cruise tourism, and facilitating nighttime research are effective strategies to avoid these misunderstandings. This may also enhance the credibility of cruise companies that may often be accused of science- and greenwashing.
Equal Placement between choice and imposition
Authors: Marielli Francesca , Giannini Chiara , Marini Balestra Sofia
Published: January 2025

Parental separation can profoundly impact children, emphasizing the necessity to prioritize their holistic well-being. Physical joint custody, promoting equal or similar time with both parents, has gained traction based on international research. However, it's debated whether dual residence always meets children's best interests. Our systematic review from 2000 onwards, drawing from PubMed, Scopus, and various legal and psychological associations, explores this issue.
Research suggests that predominantly placing children with one parent, with tailored visitation schedules aligned with their psychological, physiological, and situational needs, may better serve their welfare. Advocates argue that equal time arrangements can disrupt the stability crucial for healthy child development, despite increasing court and international support.
This study seeks to inform custody decisions that prioritize children's needs over adult preferences, advocating for nuanced custody and visitation redefinitions in legal frameworks. The goal is to safeguard children during separations by focusing on their well-being above all else.
PUBLICAR NA DEDiCA
Authors: Sadio-Ramos Fernando José , Ortiz-Molina María Angustias
Published: January 2025

Nesta seção mostram-se, aos autores, as normas de apresentação dos textos, as normas de citação (APA), as linhas de trabalho na  revista, os compromissos éticos das investigações, a natureza obligatoria da originalidade dos trabalhos...
DESIGN FEATURES OF FREIGHT CAR TRUCKS WITH CASSETTE-TYPE BEARINGS AND RESULTS OF COMPARATIVE TESTS OF VARIOUS BOX UNITS UNDER OPERATING CONDITIONS
Authors: Kossov Valery , Lunin Andrey , Panin Yury , Gavryushin Mikhail , Tikhonov Aleksey
Published: January 2025

The paper presents the results of assessing the impact of installing wheelsets equipped with cassette-type bearings and adapters in freight car trucks. Variants of box unit designs with various types of bearings are considered. Geometrics of adapters from various manufacturers are analyzed. The analysis of the results of running dynamic tests conducted on a long-distance track shows a decrease in the maximum values of frame forces for cars equipped with cassette-type bearings with adapters up to 8%.
The Rise of K-Pop and Afrobeats: A Transcultural and Digital Exploration
Authors: Ndineyi Michelle Rukudzo
Published: January 2025

This study examines the global rise of Korean popular music (K-Pop) and Afrobeats, focusing on four key aspects: the influence of historical and cultural contexts on their development; the role of digital platforms and social media in their international success; their mutual influence and impact on broader musical trends; and their social and cultural impacts both locally and globally. Through a comparative lens, its analysis, informed by the Globalisation Theory, Actor Network Theory, Intertextuality Theory, and Cultural Hybridity Theory, aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of these genres’ emergence, evolution, and global influence. Additionally, it aims to give a fresh perspective on how music from disparate cultures converges and diverges.
Where Did They Come From, Where Did They Go: Analysis of Formula 1 Driver Career Paths
Authors: Law Imogen
Published: January 2025

This study examines the career trajectories of Formula 1 drivers, focusing on their pathways through junior series, F1 careers, and post-F1 activities. Data was collected from multiple sources and analysed in RStudio to identify trends in feeder series participation, career duration, and post-F1 race involvement. The results reveal a significant lengthening of driver careers across all phases, with increasingly structured pre-F1 development pathways, longer F1 tenures, and diverse post-F1 career trajectories driven by engagement in endurance racing, geographic influences, and evolving motorsport opportunities. Notably, while pre-F1 feeder series have become more standardised, post-F1 career paths remain highly varied, reflecting the interplay between individual strategy and the global motorsport ecosystem. Future improvements could involve integrating performance metrics, team data, and qualitative insights, while the analysis can be utilised by teams, sponsors, and organisers to refine talent development, optimise partnerships, and promote sustainable career opportunities in motorsport.Keywords: Formula 1, Career Progression, Motorsport, Talent Pathways, Driver Development
Modular Framework for the Collatz Conjecture - Universal Proof of Convergence
Authors: ILHAN Oguzhan
Published: January 2025

This paper introduces a modular arithmetic framework that resolves the Collatz conjecture by systematically demonstrating that all positive integers stabilize under the iterative Collatz process. By partitioning integers into stabilization and reduction sets (S1 and S2), the framework rigorously proves that every residue either stabilizes directly or transitions predictably, ultimately converging to the canonical cycle (4 → 2 → 1). The universality of this framework is established through mathematical proofs applicable to all modular bases, ensuring no exceptional cases. Computational validation for integers up to 10^6 complements the theoretical work, reinforcing its accuracy and robustness. This contribution is designed to invite academic review and critical examination. By resolving the Collatz conjecture through a systematic and universal approach, this work aims to advance the understanding of iterative processes and modular dynamics in discrete mathematics. Additionally, the techniques presented may inspire further exploration of similar problems involving iterative transformations.
Toward a Principled Bayesian Workflow in Semantics: A Tutorial
Authors: Godmann Henrik R. , Haaf Julia M. , Visser Ingmar , Szymanik Jakub , Sarafoglou Alexandra
Published: January 2025

When researchers study semantic phenomena using Bayesian cognitive models, they must validate these models to ensure they accurately formalize the underlying theory and predictions. This is particularly important, as Bayesian models have gained increasing popularity in semantics inrecent years, yet the question of how to validate these models has not been addressed in the lit-erature. Here, we present an R and Stan-based tutorial on five model validation methods basedon the principled Bayesian workflow in cognitive science (Gelman et al., 2020; Betancourt, 2018;Schad et al., 2021). We apply these methods to a cognitive model on semantic representations ofnatural function words. Specifically, we demonstrate how to implement and interpret (1) prior pre-dictive checks, (2) computational faithfulness, (3) model sensitivity, (4) parameter recovery, and(5) posterior predictive checks. The tutorial includes path diagrams for an easier understandingof the methods, troubleshooting checklists to address undesired outcomes, and R and Stan codeto make it easier to apply these methods to new situations.
Increasing Stability in the Digital Payment Space: The Potential Institutional Benefits of Central Bank Digital Currencies
Authors: Eichacker Nina
Published: January 2025

In recent years, cryptocurrencies have become more salient as speculative assets, and as sources of instability for wider swathes of the public. This has occurred at a global level, with both domestic and international spillover effects for core and peripheral economies. At the same time, analysts of cryptocurrency and blockchains have identified some institutional benefits of these innovations, including the ability to process payments outside of traditional business hours and the potential to provide banking services for households and institutions in regions that lack access to a formal banking sector. This paper considers how central banks’ efforts to create formal digital currencies may stabilize financial and monetary conditions. By offering a formal digital currency, central banks have the potential to diminish payment related demand for cryptocurrencies, and decrease the exposure households have to the volatility of cryptocurrency asset markets as well as to fraud endemic to the cryptocurrency markets. Offering a formal digital currency may be seen as a monetary form of public finance; in this case, the public alternative is a country’s own currency that may be usable in the blockchain, rather than forcing households to search for the most reputable or stable cryptocurrency alternatives. As households and businesses adopt CBDCs, they may leave cryptocurrency markets; while this might induce a brief period of instability in those markets, it would likely leave more volatile crypto asset markets to those best suited to managing the risk and potential reward of betting on existing assets, and insulate the risk averse from that volatility.
The Analysis of the Turkish EFL Students’ Needs for a Translation Course at a State University
Authors: Tekin Bilge Metin , Ak Ebru
Published: January 2025

Globalization has made translation an integral part of our daily lives, spanning education, technology, and commerce, thus accentuating its significance. This has prompted universities to offer various translation courses, tailored to their specific contexts. However, the diversity in these programs highlights the need to cater to the distinct requirements of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners effectively. This study aims to uncover the specific needs of EFL learners in designing translation courses, with a focus on enhancing their relevance and student-centeredness. By gathering insights into learners’ perspectives on translation courses, the research seeks to understand their preferences and expectations. “What are students’ beliefs and attitudes regarding translation courses in EFL departments?” is the main research question of the present study. To achieve this, 50 EFL students from a state university in Ankara participated in the study, selected through convenience sampling, and responded to a structured questionnaire developed by Hui-Chuan Wang. The questionnaire covered various aspects of course planning, instructional methods, learning objectives, materials, teaching styles, and evaluation techniques. Employing a quantitative approach, the study aims to provide a clear understanding of learners’ expectations and requirements regarding translation courses. Ultimately, the findings are expected to inform improvements to the translation course curriculum at the state university, ensuring it better meets the needs of students.
Implementing a Three-Stage Approach to Teach Writing Skills Using the Corpus of Contemporary American English in a Foundation Program Context
Authors: Ayyat Amjed
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the effectiveness of the Corpus of Contemporary American English (COCA) as a teaching tool for enhancing writing skills in English as a Second Language (ESL) learners within a Foundation Program context. The primary research question is: How does COCA influence the writing abilities of ESL students? The aim is to explore COCA’s potential to facilitate a process-based approach to writing, addressing common challenges ESL educators face. This study is significant as it contributes to integrating technology into second language learning through the application of a comprehensive linguistic corpus; COCA features over one billion words and offers various search functionalities, such as List, Chart, Collocates, Compare, Word, and Keyword in Context (KWIC). The research uses qualitative analysis to evaluate COCA’s impact on learners’ writing processes and outcomes. Findings indicate that COCA significantly enhances students’ writing skills across three structured stages: the brainstorming stage for gathering information, the while-writing stage to minimize incorrect vocabulary usage, and the post-writing stage focusing on feedback and assessment. The results demonstrate that employing COCA within a student-centered framework promotes engagement and skill development in writing. The study concludes with recommendations for further research to validate COCA’s effectiveness in teaching other language skills, including grammar, reading, and vocabulary, thereby maximizing its utility in comprehensive English language learning and ensuring that it becomes a vital resource for ESL educators.
Exploring EFL Teachers’ Views on Task-Based Learning and English for Specific Purposes in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alwahibee Khalid M. , Al-Mutairi Awatif Saad
Published: January 2025

This study investigates how instructors perceive Task-Based Instruction (TBI) implementation in their English for Medical Purposes (EMP) classes. There are two minor objectives: 1) to examine the degree to which EMP instructors utilize TBI in their teaching, and 2) to highlight the perceived advantages and disadvantages of TBI from the perspective of EMP instructors. To achieve these objectives, the study attempts to answer the following question: What are the EMP instructors’ views on implementing TBI? The study was carried out with 50 EMP instructors who teach medical students. It employed qualitative and quantitative methods, utilizing a questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. The findings indicated that 83% of EMP instructors had a positive attitude towards incorporating task-based instruction in their teaching practices, and 74% demonstrated a high understanding of TBI concepts. According to the instructors, TBI is advantageous and motivating for EMP students as it enhances their communication skills and promotes student interaction. The findings are followed by some implications for Teachers of English for Medical Purposes and curriculum designers to develop and implement TBI strategies for EMP students. Finally, the research concludes with some recommendations for further study.
A Typology of Nuclear and Extended Family Relations in the United States
Authors: Hünteler Bettina , Hank Karsten , Alburez-Gutierrez Diego , Leopold Thomas
Published: January 2025

Objective: To develop a typology of relationship quality for nuclear and extended familyrelations in the United States, accounting for variation across kinship types and racial/ethnicgroups.Background: Existing typologies of family relationships primarily focus on nuclear ties,often neglecting relations with extended kin. Ties to extended kin are, however, central to manypeople’s lives and may be particularly salient in certain racial/ethnic minority groups.Expanding current typologies to include both nuclear and extended kin is therefore importantfor describing the diverse landscape of family relations.Method: We applied latent class analysis to data from the US sample of the KINMATRIXsurvey. Data were collected online from the ego-centric perspective of respondents (egos) aged25 to 35, capturing their perspectives on a wide array of their nuclear and extended familymembers. The analytic sample comprised N = 3,772 egos and N = 61,511 dyadic relationshipswith their biological kin.Results: We identified five classes of relationships in nuclear and extended family ties:tight-knit, connected-but-autonomous, disharmonious-but-supportive, intimate-but-distant, anddetached. Across these classes, we found a pronounced gradient, whereby closeness declinedand detachment increased with genealogical distance. Considering absolute kin numbers,however, revealed a substantial ‘relational reserve’ in extended family ties, particularly thosecharacterized as connected-but-autonomous. These were especially relevant in Blackrespondents, who were less close to nuclear kin, but also less detached from extended kin.Conclusion: This study highlights the relevance of kin relations beyond the nuclear familyand demonstrates the value of typological approaches assessing commonalities and differences– especially along racial/ethnic lines – in contemporary American families.
Determinants of Mutual Fund Performance in Nepal
Authors: Paudel Ramesh Rasik
Published: January 2025

This research investigates the key determinants influencing the performance of mutual funds in the context of the Nepalese financial market. Employing a descriptive and analytical methodology, the study examines the impact of three predictor variables, namely Net Asset Value (NAV), Expense Ratio (ER), and Portfolio Turnover Rate (PTR), on the dependent variable, Holding Period Returns (HPR). Statistical tools such as correlation and regression analyses are applied to scrutinize the relationships among these variables. The model summary analysis reveals that 53.90% of the variations in HPR are accounted for by NAV, ER, and PTR, as indicated by the correlation coefficient (R-Square). This implies that 46.10% of the variations in mutual fund returns remain unexplained by the included predictor variables, suggesting potential influences from external factors. The regression analysis further demonstrates the significance of the model, with a statistically significant F-statistic (F = 1.98, p = .001). The regression coefficients indicate that NAV positively influences HPR (Beta = 1.776, p = 0.044), while ER and PTR exhibit negative and positive effects, respectively, though ER's impact is statistically insignificant. The study contributes to the understanding of the intricate dynamics affecting mutual fund performance in the Nepalese market. The findings suggest that investors and fund managers should pay particular attention to NAV and PTR as potential drivers of fund returns. The research provides valuable insights for policymakers and market participants seeking to enhance the efficiency and transparency of the mutual fund industry in Nepal
Usefulness of Micro Enterprise Development (MED) Model
Authors: Neupane Rabindra K. , Luitel Madan Kumar
Published: January 2025

This article evaluates the usefulness of micro-enterprise development (MED) model to its primary beneficiaries i.e. micro-entrepreneurs for their enterprise’s performance growth. It is a tool for enterprise creation and development implemented through a program named MEDEP by Ministry of Industry. Field survey of micro-entrepreneurs of Banepa and Chaurideurali has been conducted to collect their opinion on the benefits realized through MED model for their enterprise performance growth. Descriptive research design is used to describe the benefits entrepreneurs have realized from the model. Both the results from descriptive and inferential data analysis have proved the positive utility of MED model for enterprise performance growth, although the relationship between MED model and Enterprise performance growth is significantly moderated by industry types. Conclusively, the model is beneficial to start-up enterprises for growth and sustainability. Therefore, the model is useful to be replicated by other standalone skill and enterprise training providers in Nepal
Impact of External Debts and FDI Inflows on Export Performance of Nepal: An Application of Gravity Modelling Approach
Authors: Paudel Basundhara , Paudel Ramesh Chandra
Published: January 2025

As export promotion garners considerable attention from policymakers, export-led growth rapidly becomes the officially proclaimed development plan in many least-developed and developing economies. In recent years, increasingly burdensome external debts, negligible foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows, and poor export performance have become the issue of debate among policymakers. This study uses balanced panel data of Nepal and its top 25 trading partners from 2007 to 2019 to analyze how external debt and FDI inflows affect Nepalese exports employing gravity modeling techniques. The study results show that FDI inflows and external debts positively impact Nepal’s export performance. The study also found that gravity factors, population, and gross domestic product (GDP) of both Nepal and its trading partners had a substantial impact on the exports of the given country. Distance, which acts as a stand-in for transportation costs, has a detrimental effect. The study suggests leveraging debt to finance trade policy and logistics to improve the export-oriented production system and infrastructure development that prioritizes trade and GDP growth.
The influence of the arts and the humanities on ‘personal skills’ among medical students and doctors: a scoping review
Authors: Pathiyil Ravi Shankar
Published: January 2025

Medical humanities programs are offered at several medical schools. Workshops and sessions on the arts are also offered. The author examined studies from the literature to evaluate the evidence for the influence of the medical humanities on ambiguity and uncertainty, communication skills, empathy, observation skills, resilience and self-care either alone or in combination. Original research studies published between January 2000 to June 2024 in English language among premedical, medical students (preclinical and clinical), interns and residents were examined. PubMed and the Google Scholar databases were searched using the key words ‘Empathy’, ‘Tolerance of ambiguity’, ‘Wellbeing’, ‘Uncertainty’, ‘Observation skills’, ‘Resilience and self-care’, ‘Communication skills’, ‘Medical humanities’ and ‘Health humanities’. The abstract of the retrieved articles was carefully read through to examine if they explored the impact of the humanities module on one or more of the characteristics mentioned either quantitatively and/or qualitatively. If the abstract was deemed suitable to the study, the full text of the article was obtained and carefully read through. Duplicates were removed manually. A total of 52 articles were included. Twenty-seven studies (51.9%) focused on empathy either alone or with other characteristics and 25 studies described interventions among basic science medical students. More studies were quantitative, and 30 studies (57.7%) were from the United States. Most measured the studied parameters before and after the intervention using a validated checklist. The evidence for influence is strong for empathy and visual observation skills. There is also moderate evidence for resilience and well-being. The arts and the humanities can create ‘better’ doctors. More studies from developing countries are required.
Advent of Forensic Workshop: Crime Scene Creation and Investigation
Authors: Kshitiz Shrestha  , Paudel Samagya
Published: January 2025

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ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND CASE CATEGORIES IN CIVIL PROCEEDINGS
Authors: Szanciło Tomasz
Published: January 2025

Under the Polish Constitution, administration of justice cannot be performed by someone (something) other than a human being. Therefore, the introduction of AI into civil proceedings may not take place in violation of the right to a court. This does not mean, however, that one should not consider possibly allowing AI to adjudicate civil cases and thus replace the judge, but it should rather apply to simple, uncomplicated and repetitive cases. Certainly, AI would not be affected by external factors, except for one – the introduction of appropriate assumptions into the algorithm. It must be remembered that AI is not human, so if it were to act as a judge, it would have to ‘learn to think’, be able to react to non-standard behaviour of witnesses and parties, analyse their behaviour, etc. It is worth considering piloting the introduction of AI at first instance in certain categories of cases, especially those that do not require extensive evidentiary proceedings based on evidence other than documents. Examples of such cases are ‘franking’ cases involving loans linked to a foreign currency. This would provide an opportunity to verify in practice the use of AI in justice for activities other than technical, opinion and adjudication support.
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY? 10 YEARS SINCE THE ESTABLISHMENT OF PREVENTIVE DETENTION IN POLAND
Authors: Dawidziuk Ewa
Published: January 2025

The 10th anniversary of the National Center for the Prevention of Dissocial Behaviour prompts reflections on its functioning. Unfortunately, in addition to an increasing population of patients isolated from society and rising expenditures, we have not seen fundamental changes. These are necessary in the law of 22 November 2013, which is the legal basis for the creation of the Center, as well as in the philosophy of the operation of this type of detention facilities. The article presents the CPT’s recommendations and observations included in a report that was published in 2024, following a visit to the Center in 2022. The article presents the latest statistics, information on cases communicated to the Polish government before the ECtHR. It provides an assessment of the current status of the National Center after a decade since its establishment, and at a time when it is possible to believe that the Ministry of Justice, together with the Ministry of Health, will proceed with legislative and conceptual changes.
Cultivating trans linguistics: Creativity and contestation
Authors: Cedar Brown , miles-hercules deandre , Zimman Lal
Published: January 2025

This special issue on trans linguistics forefronts both resistance and creativity in responding to transphobia and other interlocking power dynamics that trans people must navigate. These practices exist in the context of growing hostilities, violence and repression of gender non-normative practices on a global scale. The articles highlight the unique configurations of communication born out of trans experiences, illustrating how their study can produce novel insights for the study of language. Together, the authors featured here expand the emerging field of trans linguistics, considering questions of legitimacy, visibility, agency and power by examining trans vocal, grammatical and discursive practices within their sociopolitical contexts. We come to this work as trans people and linguists who have been deeply involved in advancing trans-affirming linguistic change, but who see much room for growth in the ways our discipline serves, represents and accompanies trans people.
Interrogating the cisgender listening subject in the study of trans voices
Authors: Calder J , Steele Ariana
Published: January 2025

Sociolinguistics has primarily analysed gendered language as the speech of cisgender women and men, with speakers being expected to conform to cisgender patterns to successfully index gender. Furthermore, most research on the transgender voice has been conducted by speech-language pathologists prescribing that trans women and men should conform to cisgender norms in voicing their gender identities. To explore whether nonbinary speakers conform to such binaristic models, we examine /s/ realisations in two gender-nonnormative communities (in San Francisco, California and Columbus, Ohio). Both communities exhibit patterns opposite to cisgender norms. This may lead analysts to interpret nonbinary speakers’ performances of masculinity and femininity as unsuccessful. However, such practices are ratified within the speakers’ local communities, where disrupting binaries is a central social goal. Situating linguistic practice within local norms serves to faithfully represent the goals of the nonbinary speaking subject and avoids reifying the perspective of the cisgender listening subject as universal.

これまでの社会言語学研究は、シスジェンダーの男女の言語使用を中心に、話者がシスジェンダーの性差を示す言語表現をどのように用いるかを分析してきた。また、トランスジェンダー話者の声についての研究の多くは音声言語病理学者によって行われ、トランス女性やトランス男性が自らのジェンダーアイデンティティを声に反映させる際、シスジェンダーの基準を参照することが推奨されてきた。本研究は、ノンバイナリー話者がこのような両極端の性差を言語基準としているかを調査する。具体例として、カリフォルニア州サンフランシスコとオハイオ州コロンバスにおけるジェンダー非規範的なコミュニティの/s/の発音分析を報告する。調査結果では、いずれのコミュニティにおいても、シスジェンダーの基準とは異なる言語的パターンが確認された。この結果は一見、ノンバイナリー話者による男性性や女性性の表現が不完全であるという印象を与えるかもしれない。しかし実は、研究対象の話者の言語表現は、男女の性差を両極端として捉える枠組みから意図的に逸脱し、それが各コミュニティ内で受け入れられていることを示唆する。この観点から、言語表現をローカルな基準で位置づける意義が浮かび上がる。本稿は、従来のシスジェンダーの聞き手を普遍的な視点とする研究の枠組みに異議を唱え、ノンバイナリー話者の言語活動の目的とその意味を再評価する必要性を論じる。
‘But […] how can you call yourself not binary???’: Linguistic self-determination, gatekeeping and trans identities in the French-speaking context
Authors: Tudisco Jordan J.
Published: January 2025

This article explores the challenges posed by a self-determination model of identity for nonbinary French speakers. Situating nonbinary French speakers within a broader context of governmental and institutional rejection of nonbinary French, the article examines examples of nonbinary expression found in online mediatized representations as well as how this nonbinary expression is framed by narrators and producers of the content. In the two video examples selected for analysis, both taken from YouTube, nonbinary French speakers articulate nonbinary identity through a variety of linguistic strategies that include nonbinary linguistic forms and novel uses of binary language. However, regardless of the strategies used, narrators reframe these linguistic innovations under a gender binary. The reasons put forth for rejecting nonbinary expression may differ, but they all work to deny the existence of nonbinary people.

Cet article explore les problèmes que pose un modèle identitaire d'auto-détermination pour les francophones non-binaires. Il présente d'abord le contexte de rejet gouvernemental et institutionnel du français non-binaire auquel les francophones non-binaires sont confrontés. Ensuite, cet article examine plusieurs exemples d'expression non-binaire présents dans des vidéos en ligne ainsi que la manière dont les narrateurices et producteurices de ces vidéos articulent cette expression non-binaire. Dans les deux vidéos YouTube qui ont été sélectionnées et analysées dans cet article, les francophones non-binaires articulent leur identité non-binaire au travers de multiples stratégies linguistiques qui comprennent non seulement des néologismes non-binaires mais aussi une utilisation innovante de la langue binaire. Cependant, les narrateurices de ces vidéos imposent une vision binaire du genre sur ces innovations linguistiques, et ce peu importe les stratégies employées par les francophones non-binaires présent.es dans ces vidéos. Les raisons qui motivent ce rejet de l'expression non-binaire diffèrent, mais elles mènent toutes Á une négation de l'existence des personnes non-binaires dans le monde francophone.