bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trends in the use of information and communication technologies in the teaching of foreign languages and translator training
Authors: Kovalchuk N.
Published: December 2024

The article provides a comparative analysis of 27 studies carried out over the last five years on the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) in education, the application of ICT in education and the utilisation of machine translation (MT) in the teaching of foreign languages and translation. It outlines the trends identified by these studies, the achievements to date and the most promising areas for further research. The main areas identified were: the theoretical justification for the use of ICT; the comparative effectiveness of different MT systems, on the one hand, and human translators, on the other; the assessment of students’ target texts taking into account their degree of independence from MT; the role of post-editing in the teaching of foreign languages and translation and the methodology of its application in the teaching process; the role of ICT in the translation industry and its impact on the content of training programmes and curricula for future translators. The analysis showed that there is a considerable lack of sufficient research in the first area, as well as contradictory results in the remaining three (discrepancies in the evaluation of the translation efficiency of different MT systems and of MT compared to humans; unavailability of an effective and economical methodology for the evaluation of texts produced with the use of MT; the absence of a rational methodology for the application of post-editing at different stages of training and under different conditions). The author highlights the positive attitude of the translation industry towards ICT and the significant gap between its needs and the content of the training of future translators. The most promising directions for further research are outlined. These include, in particular: developing a methodology for the formation of skills included in the model of technological competence of a future translator; clarifying the comparative effectiveness of different MT systems and their potential areas of application; specifying the differences between machine and human translation and determining their optimal correlation in translator training and translation practice; identifying the optimal proportion of MT in the content of translator training and ways of evaluating texts translated using MT; developing a model for the effective integration of post-editing into the content of training; investigating ways of increasing the influence of the translation industry on the content of translator training.
Professionally focused vlog in pre-service foreign language teacher education
Authors: Melnyk A.
Published: December 2024

The phenomenon of “vlogging” is articulated through its pivotal role in the professionally focused communicative competence development of pre-service foreign language teachers, particularly those specializing in English. The exploration encompasses a review of both domestic and international scholarly contributions. A professionally focused vlog is conceptualized as an information and research project that is educational in form and professional in content delineating the trajectory of the prospective teacher’s future career. Its genesis is ascribed to contemporary pedagogical demands for the establishment of an enriching multimedia educational environment, envisioned to foster the augmentation of interaction; the integration of authentic online resources and tasks, inciting students to explore diverse professional and pedagogical issues; the cultivation of the skills pertinent to both independent and collaborative information gathering, transforming it into a profound learning experience that steers clear of a linear sequence in favor of a comprehensive array of sources for forging personalized learning pathways.

Professionally focused foreign language vlogs are posited to ensure the attainment of intercultural foreign language communication competences among professionals in educational domains, contingent upon adherence to specific stipulations. They entail: setting explicit project objectives aligned with authentic outcomes reflective of prospective professional activities; creating quasi-professional tasks (a partial analogue of a professional one) designed to enhance university-level students’ professional motives and interests in teaching languages and cultures, and modelling situations that closely mirror challenges pertinent to professional advancement; maintaining a project log for a 4-5 weeks duration, meticulously managing ordered stages of work during classroom and extracurricular activities, accompanied by a set of exercises and tasks for improving linguistic, speech, educational-strategic and socio-cultural competences; promoting personalised learning to explore topics that align with their professional aspirations; facilitating reflection practices, taking into account the obstacles students encountered and the resolution strategies they surmounted in pursuit of project goals; emphasizing self-regulation, critical appraisal and revision.
Magazine “Business Spotlight” as the authentic resource for developing English reading skills for higher education students
Authors: Palamarchuk A. , Pylypyshyna D.
Published: December 2024

Employing authentic materials to develop reading skills often leads to difficulty in selecting authentic texts. A variety of researchers point out that the selection of authentic materials is challenging and time-consuming, as it requires choosing a suitable, readable, and exploitable text. Tackling this issue can make the selection process brief and increase the implementation of authentic texts for reading purposes in the ESL classroom. This paper aims to analyze the Business Spotlight magazine as a source of reading texts; consider the benefits of this periodical and how it can facilitate the selection of materials; offer a set of designed reading activities based on an article taken from the Business Spotlight magazine, and investigate ESL university students’ attitude towards the article. The research methodology comprises the theoretical analysis and generalization of scientific literature highlighting the significant factors that contribute to the productive implementation of reading authentic texts. The main tool used to measure third-year university students’ attitudes towards the authentic article was a set of designed activities and a follow-up questionnaire based on a Likert scale. The questionnaire aimed to assess the article according to the main factors of choosing authentic materials, including suitability of the content, readability, exploitability, and presentation. The main findings indicate that the authentic article met students’ needs, with information likely to be applied beyond the classroom. Structurally and grammatically, it was not overly demanding. The article effectively enhanced reading, listening, and speaking skills through tailored activities, fostering student motivation and enjoyment in the learning process. Consequently, the Business Spotlight magazine presents a diverse range of authentic articles reporting news from English-speaking countries. These articles are crafted at various language levels, streamlining the selection process for educators who need not adapt the texts themselves. Business Spotlight articles can be employed at different language levels and for various teaching purposes.
Enhancing university remote language learning through innovative applications of artificial intelligence technologies amidst global challenges
Authors: Sarnovska N. , Rybinska J. , Mykhailichenko Yu.
Published: December 2024

In recent years, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies has revolutionised various industries, and education is no exception. One area where AI is making significant strides is in distance learning of foreign languages at the university level. The purpose of the article is to examine the many ways in which AI technologies can be used to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of foreign language learning in virtual classrooms based on a personalised approach to learning and to outline an algorithm for utilizing artificial intelligence in foreign language learning, which aims to provide a structured approach for integrating AI tools and technologies into language learning processes. The scientific novelty of the study lies in its comprehensive exploration and integration of cutting-edge AI technologies within the context of university remote learning for foreign languages. The emphasis on personalized learning paths and adaptive learning approaches is a novel aspect. The study delves into how AI algorithms analyse individual learner data to tailor educational content, providing a customized and adaptive learning experience. This focus on individualized instruction represents a departure from traditional one-size-fits-all language education methods. Research Methods. To conduct a comprehensive study on the use of artificial intelligence technologies in university remote learning of foreign languages, a mixed-methods research approach is employed. This involves both quantitative and qualitative research methods to gather a holistic understanding of the impact and effectiveness of AI technologies in language education. Conclusions. Integrating AI technologies into university remote learning for foreign languages represents a transformative shift in how languages are taught and acquired. By personalizing learning paths, providing intelligent tutoring, incorporating conversational practice, utilizing gamification, automating assessment, and leveraging virtual reality, AI is reshaping language education to be more engaging, effective, and tailored to individual student needs. As these technologies continue to evolve, the future of language learning promises to be dynamic, interactive, and increasingly accessible to learners worldwide.
Pedagogical grammar as a frame concept for research in the field of foreign language teaching methods. Part 16. Problems of organising pedagogical grammar in teaching
Authors: Chernovaty L.
Published: December 2024

The article presents a comparative analysis of two approaches to teaching a foreign language in general and its grammar in particular – acquisition (mainly implicit learning, similar to the mastery of a first language) and learning (based on students’ awareness of the structure and conditions of use of the grammatical structures to be learnt). As the analysis of the available publications shows, there are contradictory points of view on the relationship between acquisition and learning in the classroom teaching process, ranging from the complete denial of the usefulness of one of the above approaches to the search for the optimal ratio of elements of both methods, depending on the specific learning conditions. In the author’s opinion, the problem can be practically reduced to the ratio of types of pedagogical information in the teaching process. The author distinguishes three such types (speech sample, model and rule), which differ in the degree of implicitness (speech sample is implicit, model is semi-implicit and rule is explicit). Acquisition is mainly based on the use of a speech sample as the only type of pedagogical information, while the use of rules and models is typical of teaching that focuses on understanding the structure and conditions of use of the grammatical action that is the object of acquisition. On the basis of the arguments presented in the previous parts of his series of articles, the author proposes a list of conditions favourable to effective acquisition, i.e. even when a speech sample is used as the only type of pedagogical information. On the other hand, the author argues that there are disadvantages of such teaching due to incomplete orientation of students as to the structure and conditions of the corresponding action. The author considers more explicit types of pedagogical information as a means of overcoming this shortcoming and explains the differences between traditional and step-by-step methods of their application. Based on these conclusions, the paper outlines prospects for further research.
Assessing the Cognitive Functions of the Dorsal Medial Prefrontal Cortex in Individuals with a Neurological Illness
Authors:   , Strom Asha
Published: December 2024

The dorsal medial prefrontal cortex (dmPFC) has been implicated in a vast range of cognitive tasks. Its exact function, however, remains in contention. As reported in neuropsychological studies, apathetic presentations, slowed responses, and an inability to “sustain attention” are characteristic deficits of people with dmPFC damage. Autonomic abnormalities have also been documented, but their link to functional and behavioural impairments are yet to be investigated. In the current thesis, we aimed to assess patients who have been diagnosed with a neurological illness and healthy controls on several tasks which measure the predicted functions of the dmPFC. First, we report reaction time and physiological (heart rate variability) data from a study using a modified choice reaction time (CRT) task with a group of healthy participants. In a subsequent study, we then pilot our CRT task, as well as several fluency tasks, on six patients who had experienced a rare form of stroke, cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT). In three of the six cases, available medical information suggests that the stroke may have impacted the dmPFC. However, brain scans were unavailable. In spite of this, findings from both studies have provided crucial information regarding the validity of our tasks’ sensitivity to dmPFC pathology and has guided suggestions for future research.
Legal Recreational Cannabis Sales and Opioid-Related Mortality in the 5 Years Following Cannabis Legalization in Canada: A Granger Causality Analysis
Authors: McDonald André J. , Cooper Alysha , Doggett Amanda , Belisario Kyla , MacKillop James
Published: December 2024

Objective: Little is known about the population-level impact of recreational cannabis legalization on trends in opioid-related mortality. Increased access to cannabis due to legalization has been hypothesized to reduce opioid-related deaths because of the potential opioid-sparing effects of cannabis. The objective of this study was to examine the relations between national retail sales of recreational (non-medical) cannabis and opioid overdose deaths in the 5 years following legalization in Canada. Method: Using time-series data, we applied Granger causality methods to evaluate the association between trends in legal recreational cannabis sales and opioid-related deaths over time. Both sales and opioid deaths grew over time, with the latter exhibiting significant increases following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: We found no support for the hypothesis that increasing post-legalization sales Granger caused changes in opioid-related deaths in British Columbia, Ontario, or at the national level. Conclusions: These findings suggest that increases in legal recreational cannabis sales following legalization were not meaningfully associated with changes in opioid-related mortality. Further examination with longer follow-up periods will be needed as the legal cannabis market becomes more entrenched in Canada, but these findings converge with previous work suggesting legalization is not related to opioid overdose mortality and further undermine that hypothesized link as a basis for legalization in other jurisdictions.
SCIENTIFIC THESAURUS PROBLEMS OF GENDER EDUCATION OF CHILDREN OF ELDERLY PRESCHOOL AGE
Authors: Lutsenko Victoria
Published: December 2024

The article analyzes the scientific research of modern scientists who studied the problem of gender education of older preschool children, draws attention to political and socio-cultural changes, integration and economic processes that create prerequisites for the improvement of domestic pedagogical education in terms of its compliance with the requirements of the European educational space, implementation gender approaches in education and development of children and youth. Based on the analysis of content characteristics, taking into account the specifics of gender education and the education of preschool children, the author’s definition of the concept of gender education as an organized process of systematic influence in the conditions of a preschool education institution on older preschool children with the aim of forming valuable ideas about individual characteristics and differences is proposed each individual; the concepts of «gender», «gender education», «gender education» are analyzed; special attention is paid to the fact that the concept of «gender» in psychological and pedagogical literature is considered in various aspects: socially fixed roles, behavior, activities and characteristic features that a certain society considers appropriate for women and men; it is noted that gender education is a relevant and significant topic that contributes to the understanding of how social norms, expectations and values influence the formation of our gender identity; attention is focused on the fact that the older preschool age is the initial stage of the child’s socialization at the level of the preschool education institution.
SPATIAL STORYTELLING AS A CONVERGENCE OF E-LEARNING, VIDEO GAMES, ARCHAIC, AND IMMERSIVE JOURNALISM
Authors: Zinovieva Tetiana
Published: December 2024

This study explores the convergence of video games, game-based learning (GBL), and immersive journalism through various storytelling models, including Joseph Campbell's Hero’s Journey.

Convergence is examined from multiple perspectives: technical, economic, legal, organizational, and conceptual. The study emphasizes the dual nature of convergence: natural, which is inherent to human nature and social information, and artificial, which is driven by informatization.

The research identifies a conceptual convergence that is rooted in universal narrative paradigms and human psychology, largely propelled by technological advancements. This convergence blends artificial and natural systems of information and storytelling.
Education, journalism, and games, all communication processes and archaic mythology, share a common goal: to influence their audiences in order to shape perceptions and conclusions about the world. The tools for this influence are storytelling and engagement. With the rise of information integration technologies, these previously independent fields are beginning to converge.

Many educational courses tend to follow linear storytelling, which can limit the transformation of knowledge and reflect the increasing influence of business values within education. In contrast, immersive journalism employs spatial storytelling to highlight overlooked events, challenging traditional storytelling formats. Immersive technologies have the potential to transform education by shifting the focus from a linear credit-module approach to a value-oriented education centred on the concept of the “return of the hero.”

The study proposes the social cycle of storytelling and presents a convergent model of immersive spatial storytelling, based on the hero's journey. It has been observed that the convergence of game learning and immersive journalism aims for a new quality informed by transformative theory.
Comparison of Use, Barriers, Treatment Seeking, and Mental Health Problems in Residential Methamphetamine Users
Authors: Martínez Martínez Kalina Isela , Ojeda Aguilar Yancarlo Lizandro , Eudave-Patiño Marielena , Cahue Ángel , Paz Pérez María Abigail , Pedroza Cabrera Francisco Javier
Published: December 2024

Introduction: methamphetamine use has increased in Aguascalientes between the years 2013 to 2020, thus the government has implemented the Reintegra Program with the purpose to begin voluntary rehabilitation instead of taking the usual legal path for the individuals involved with the justice system for minor offenses. Objective: to compare the consumption history, associated problems, use of health services, barriers to access treatment, as well as depression and suicidal behavior in methamphetamine users who entered residential treatment by the Reintegra Program with those who began undergoing treatment due to other circumstances. Method: the study was descriptive, comparative and cross-sectional with 865 individuals in residential centers. Participants were categorized into the Reintegra Group (n = 453) and Not-Reintegra Group (n = 412). Data were collected using a questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed, including logistic regression analyses. Results: Reintegra Group participants showed higher prevalence of using habits, considered their use less dangerous, reported fewer associated problems with meth use, expressed less intention to quit using meth and sought help in fewer places when compared to the Not-Reintegra Group. Logistic regression identified differences between the groups, related to the total number of substances used, number of places where they sought help, and severity of problems related to meth use. Discussion and conclusions: findings highlight differences between participants based on their enrollment in the program, displaying unique challenges and underscoring the importance of personalized interventions to enhance their effectiveness.
Relación entre consumo de riesgo de alcohol y síntomas depresivos en estudiantes universitarios de México
Authors: Rosales-Damián Guillermo , Hidalgo-Rasmussen Carlos Alejandro , Torres-Chávez Lilia Janeth , Javier-Juárez Paola
Published: December 2024

Introduction: alcohol is a legal drug in most parts of the world, it is mostly accepted among different cultures. Therefore, alcohol consumption typically does not carry the same stigma associated with the use of other drugs, such as marijuana or methamphetamines. Previous research in Mexico, the United States, Ecuador, and England has shown a positive and significant association between alcohol consumption and depressive symptoms among university students. Objective: to determine the magnitude of the relationship between alcohol consumption and depressive symptoms, and whether this relationship is independent of sex, age, and socioeconomic status in first-year university students. Method: the sample consisted of 2,377 students aged 18 to 25 years (M = 18.82, SD = 1.30), 66.5% of whom were women. Results: multiple logistic regression analyses demonstrated a relationship between risk alcohol consumption and depressive symptoms, independent of sex, age, and socioeconomic status (adjusted OR = 1.88 [1.14, 3.10] with a percentage of correct classification of the 67.2% and a R2 Nagelkerke = .07). Discussion and Conclusions: the evidence of the relationship between alcohol consumption and depressive symptoms emphasizes that limiting or reducing alcohol consumption among young people could prevent the onset of depressive symptoms and their consequences.
Diferencias de género en el consumo de sustancias psicoactivas en estudiantes mexicanos de bachillerato
Authors: Arellanez-Hernández Jorge Luis , Valencia-Ochoa Juliana , Rivera-Montoya Yenni , García Villanueva Jorge
Published: December 2024

Introduction: research into the psychoactive substances use is very broad and diverse; however, in Mexico there is still a lack of specific information that highlights the possible differences in the use of these substances considering a gender perspective beyond the male/female dichotomy. Objective: explore the psychoactive substances use in high school degree students according to their gender and compare possible differences. Method: a non-experimental, cross-sectional, ex post facto study was designed with three comparison groups: cisgender-women, cisgender-men and other gender identity (non-binary, fluid, transgender-man, transgender-woman, among others). 4,136 students in the Gulf of Mexico area participated in a non-probabilistic sampling (2,120 cisgender-women, 1,964 cisgender-men, and 52 to be other gender identity). Results: the alcohol use was substantially higher in cisgender-women, while the tobacco use in cisgender-men. Illegal drug use was significantly higher in people to be other gender, especially the use of inhalants, methamphetamines, ecstasy, and hallucinogens. The marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines and heroin use was greater in cisgender-men, while that of tranquilizers was greater in cisgender-women. Discussion and conclusions: the results allowed an approach to a population group little addressed in studies of drug consumption, that of people who assume a gender different from the dichotomy (man/woman), making visible that they are a group with high consumption that it can place them in certain conditions of vulnerability.
LEGACY OF SLAVERY IN LEON FOREST’S TWO WINGS TO VEIL MY FACE
Authors: Asha P R  , Bose Dr R David Raja , Sunitha S.
Published: December 2024

Leon Forrest is one of the foremost African American novelists. He has always been concerned with the problem of identity, specifically the fragmented identity of man living in the postcolonial era. Such characterization is evident in his Forest County trilogy. This article attempts to demonstrate the legacy of slavery in Sweetie Reed, Nathaniel Witherspoon, and Angelina in Two Wings to Veil My Face. Social, historical, and psychological factors influence the misery and suffering of these Black slaves. They often engage in the struggle to find out their final image of self as they are entangled in the web of slavery and traumatic experiences of the community’s past.
The Effect of Applying Arabic Translation Techniques on the Translation Quality Assessment of Al Jazeera Captions on TikTok Social Media
Authors: Mas Farrah Chaiya , Anis Muhammad Yunus
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this study is to analyze the level of accuracy of Arabic caption translation on TikTok @aljazeera social media from the perspective of techniques and types of captions used to ensure whether the results of caption translation with the source language, namely Arabic on TikTok @aljazeera social media can be well received by readers in the target language, namely Indonesian. TikTok is one of the popular social media platforms today where the Qatari news account, @aljazeera, shares news in Arabic with captions to explain the uploaded videos. The data in this study are captions on TikTok @aljazeera social media which amounted to 66 data in Arabic and translated into Indonesian which amounted to 66 caption data. This research uses a qualitative descriptive linguistic design. Data collection was carried out by observation from July 1, 2023 to July 31, 2023. Data analysis used Spradley's model, such as: domain analysis, taxonomy analysis, componential analysis, and cultural theme analysis. The results of this study show that the types of captions in @aljazeera are: (1) identification, (2) story-telling, (3) summary, (4) quote, and (5) cutline. The findings and analysis of caption translation techniques in TikTok @aljazeera are: (1) conventional equivalence, (2) reduction, and (3) borrowing. The quality of translation in terms of accuracy is 32.27%, acceptability is 34.43%, and the readability aspect is 33.29%. The contribution of this research shows that the reduction technique has a significant impact on the decrease of translation quality assessment.
Project-Based Learning: Principles, Characteristics, and Application in Teaching Grammar Rules
Authors: Masnun Masnun , Munjiah Ma'rifatul , Yasmar Renti
Published: December 2024

This study aims to address the challenges of teaching grammar, which often relies on theoretical material with limited practical application, individual teaching methods, and a teacher-cantered approach. It proposes the use of project-based learning (PjBL) as a model to engage students actively and improve their understanding of grammar. The research, conducted at Nurul Ulum Islamic Religious School for Girls in Kebonsari, Malang, East Java, explores the implementation of the PjBL model in grammar instruction and the nature of the projects used in this context. The model comprises three main stages: pre-action (goal setting, tool selection, and time planning), action (assignment, planning, and evaluation), and post-action. During the action phase, students work collaboratively to construct sentences based on Qur'anic verses, with a specific focus on understanding grammatical rules such as the nominative case for nouns. The findings suggest that this approach fosters studentsâ€™ initiative, independence, and cooperation while promoting responsibility in problem-solving tasks. This model enhances students' active participation and engagement, making grammar instruction more dynamic and contextually relevant.
Application of E- worksheet Oriented on PBL Model to Improve Critical Thinking Skills on Acid-Base Material
Authors: Azizah Maharani Puspita Nur , Muchlis Muchlis
Published: December 2024

Humans often interact with substances containing acids and bases daily. Learning in schools in grade XI, namely in phase F, one of the element achievements that students must complete is that students can use the concept of acids and bases in everyday life. Students are expected to have critical thinking and open minds through scientific work increasingly and, at the same time, strengthen the profile of Pancasila students, especially honest, objective, critical reasoning, creative, independent, innovative, collaborative, and globally diverse. The objective of the research will be to enhance students' critical thinking ability in E-worksheet learning-oriented Problem-Based Learning models within the subject matter of acid and base. The research design used is a descriptive quantitative approach with a pre-experimental design using a "Pretest-Posttest Control Group design ". The sample used in this research was 36 students in two classes XI of SMAN 1 Waru, Sidoarjo City. Data were collected using observation sheets, tests, and questionnaires. Two lecturers and a chemistry teacher validated the instruments to collect data. Data analysis used N-Gain to explain how much students' critical thinking skills increased. It was found that students' critical thinking skills increased significantly, with 63,9% of students in class XI-1 and 83,3% in class XI-5 obtaining N-Gain scores included in the high category, which falls into a high category. The results of the study confirm that E-worksheets oriented towards PBL are effective in developing critical thinking skills in chemistry among students, especially on the topic of acids and bases.
Reproducibility of spirometry in asthmatic children between 5-12 years of age.
Authors: Mehwish Afzal  , Saba Siddiqui  , Tanveer Areeba , Sultan Mustafa  , Ayesha Khatoon  , Sarah Aslam  , Sidra Hassan
Published: December 2024

Objective: To investigate how consistently children (aged 5-12) attending the asthma clinic at Abbasi Shaheed Hospital could perform forced expiratory maneuvers during standard spirometric evaluation. Study Design: Cross-sectional. Setting: Department of Paediatric, Abbasi Shaheed Hospital, Karachi. Period: October, 2021 till April, 2022. Methods: Prospective data collection was conducted on 128 suspected asthmatic patients following verbal consent. Simple descriptive statistics, including mean and standard deviation, were used to summarize quantitative data, while qualitative variables were reported as frequencies and percentages. Stratification was used to manage effect modifiers and evaluate their influence on the outcome variable. A post-stratification chi-square test was employed, with a significance level set at p ≤ 0.5. Results: A total of 128 suspected asthmatic patients were included in this study. Mean age in our study was 9.14±2.09 years. 58 (45.3%) were male and 70 (54.7%) were female. Out of 128 suspected asthmatic patients, 95 (74.2%) and 33 (25.8%) had and did not have reproducibility. Conclusion: In a busy clinical environment, a significant number of school-aged children demonstrate the ability to perform technically acceptable and repeatable spirometry. This indicates that spirometry could serve as an effective screening tool for identifying abnormal lung function, such as asthma, in this age group.
Validation of Gall bladder wall thickness as a non-invasive marker for the prediction of esophageal varices in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension.
Authors: Ameet Kumar  , Mansoor UI Haq  , Dheeraj Kumar  , Tauqeer Sheikh
Published: December 2024

Objective: To validate the gall bladder wall thickness as a non-invasive marker for the prediction of esophageal varices (EV) in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Department of Gastroenterology, Liaquat National Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan. Period: January 2024 to June 2024. Methods: Patients of age 18 years, of any gender diagnosed with cirrhosis and were endoscopy naïve with no previous history of intervention for varices were included. After an overnight fast, the gall bladder (GB) thickness was measured twice at two distinct places, and an average value was determined. Results: Total 210 patients were enrolled into the study with mean age of 56.3 ± 11.8 years. Majority were males (57.1%). Patients had comorbidity of hypertension (17.1%) and diabetes (16.2%). Median gall bladder thick was 2.3 (IQR=1.2-2.9) cm. AUC for GB to predict EV was found to be 0.983 (95% CI: 0.96-1, p<0.001) which shows excellent predictive ability of GB thickness. The optimal cut-off value of GB thickness was found to be ≥1.95 cm. On multivariable regression analysis, increasing gall bladder thickness was found to be associated with higher odds of esophageal varices. Conclusion: The present demonstrated that GB thickness is a promising parameter with excellent predictive ability for prediction of EV among cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension, which should be included in part of routine evaluation in such cohort of patients for timely detection of EV.
Neonatal sepsis – etiological study at the Central Park teaching Hospital, Lahore.
Authors: Mohsan Nadeem Sheikh  , M. Sohail Shahzad  , Arshad Rafique  , Anjum Ali  , Wahab Qadir  , Ayesha Rafiq  , Azeem Sarwar Gill  , Muhammad Ahsan
Published: December 2024

Objective: To identify the causative bacteria responsible for early and late onset neonatal sepsis and to determine their antibiotic susceptibilities at Central Park Teaching Hospital. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of Central Park Teaching Hospital, Lahore. Study Period: Jan to June 2024. Methods: Neonates up to 28 days old with clinical features of sepsis were randomly sampled and included in the study. Key maternal and neonatal risk factors were evaluated. Blood cultures were analyzed to identify microbial isolates and assess resistance patterns. Demographic data, clinical features, and blood culture results were collected and analyzed using SPSS version 26.0. Results: Out of the cases studied, 55% were male. Early onset sepsis was slightly more prevalent at 51.5%. Significant maternal risk factors for early sepsis included maternal fever, offensive liquor, and prolonged second stage of labor. Blood cultures were positive in 18.8% of cases, with early onset sepsis accounting for 44.7% of positives and late onset sepsis for 55.3%. Gram-positive bacteria were more common in early sepsis (48.1%), with Acinetobacter baumannii and Candida blankii being notable isolates, while Gram-negative bacteria were more prevalent in late sepsis (63.6%), with Bacillus spp. and Burkholderia cenoc as key pathogens. Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus was the most frequently isolated pathogen in both early and late sepsis. Conclusion: The study underscores the importance of developing tailored antimicrobial strategies based on the timing of sepsis onset to improve neonatal outcomes. Significant differences in microbial distribution between early and late neonatal sepsis were observed (p < 0.001).
O LUGAR ONDE VIVO: coletânea de crônicas, memórias literárias, artigos de opinião e poemas
Authors: Bastos Gilda de Almeida , Roxa Maria Aline de Jesus
Published: December 2024

A obra contém composições de vários estudantes escritores que apresentam, logo na primeira parte, a nossa ALTO RIO NOVO de forma poética e nostálgica, revelando sentimentos de pertencimento e expressando emoções de quem ama o lugar onde vive.
Na segunda parte, temos as mais diversas formas emblemáticas de descrever uma escola e contar suas histórias e emoções que jamais seriam reveladas se não fossem as crônicas e poesias.
A razão pela qual esta obra se revela, é, simplesmente se fazer conhecer, quem dela se apropriar, de sentimentos e emoções vividos por “escritores anônimos”. Pessoas que souberam expressar facetas intensas de uma cidade pacata e de uma escola de educação básica, ao que parece, a olho nu, existir apenas uma rotina como em outro lugar qualquer.
Esta obra parte do contexto de adolescentes e jovens que, embora interioranos, viveram e vivem intensamente, fazendo suas próprias histórias, cheias de sentimentos e emoções, dando um show de vida para nós leitores. Por entre as páginas deste livro, o leitor vai conhecer e entender o que faz de uma pequena cidade do interior e sua única escola de Ensino Médio, um lugar extraordinário.
EXPLORANDO AS FASES DA LUA: ABORDAGENS DE ENSINO POR INVESTIGAÇÃO EM UM CLUBE DE CIÊNCIAS
Authors: Rodrigues Sarah Gabrielly Osório , Pergentino Beatriz Freitas , Loureiro Terezinha Medeiros Gonçalves de
Published: December 2024

A educação atual debate a transição do ensino tradicional, centrado no professor, para metodologias ativas e o ensino híbrido, que priorizam a participação ativa do aluno. Abordagens como o ensino investigativo e o Clube de Ciências visam promover a alfabetização científica e o desenvolvimento do pensamento crítico, envolvendo os estudantes em práticas experimentais e na formulação de hipóteses, reforçando uma educação mais colaborativa e significativa. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o impacto das metodologias ativas no aprendizado de alunos do 5º ano de uma escola pública em Belém-PA, por meio de atividades no Clube de Ciências. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa exploratória realizada com 19 alunos, onde foram aplicadas etapas de reflexão e interação, seguidas de um questionário semiestruturado para medir a aceitação e os efeitos da abordagem no aprendizado, além de observações do mediador. Os resultados apontaram para maior engajamento, colaboração e compreensão científica, comparativamente ao método tradicional. Questionários e observações confirmaram a aceitação dos alunos pela metodologia ativa, que incentivou o interesse e o pensamento crítico. Conclui-se que o ensino por investigação, como no Clube de Ciências, aprimora o aprendizado e as habilidades críticas dos alunos, criando um ambiente de aprendizado significativo, essencial para formar cidadãos curiosos e preparados para o futuro.
Além da Sustentabilidade: novas direções no Direito Ambiental - Volume V
Authors: Gadelha Arthur Nóbrega
Published: December 2024

“Além da Sustentabilidade Volume V” é uma coletânea de artigos que explora temas atuais do direito ambiental, abordando desde a constitucionalização dos direitos climáticos até a responsabilidade penal em delitos ambientais. Organizado por pesquisadores do Programa de Pós-Graduação Stricto Sensu em Direito Ambiental e Sociedade da Universidade de Caxias do Sul (UCS), este livro oferece uma análise crítica e propõe soluções para questões ambientais contemporâneas, alinhando-se com os objetivos da COP30 de promover a sustentabilidade global e enfrentar os desafios climáticos. Ele serve como um recurso valioso para compreender as complexidades do direito ambiental e as estratégias legais que podem ser adotadas para proteger o meio ambiente em um contexto global.
Trends and factors associated with depression among adults in the United States
Authors: Inungu Joseph N , MaloneBeach Leeny , Sultana Sanchita , Younis Mustafa Z
Published: December 2024

Purpose: Examine the trends and risk factors of depression among adults in the USA.

Methods: The national health interview survey (NHIS) data were analyzed. NHIS early release data provided the prevalence of depression from 2019 to 2022. We assessed depression covariates using SPSS 29.

Results: The prevalence of depression decreased from 4.7% in 2019 to 4.5% in 2020, before rising to 5% in 2022. Of 31,536 participants in 2022 NHIS, 51.7% were female and 40% were 26 to 49 years old. Logistic regression showed that being female, obese and having diabetes and lower level of education as well as smoking cigarettes were significantly associated with higher levels of depression. Conversely, being married and aged 60 years+ were significantly associated with lower likelihood of depression.

Conclusion: The decrease trends of depression at the onset the pandemic underscores the needs for further study. Targeted public health strategies and collaborative efforts are essential to mitigate depression’s impact and improve mental health outcomes.
Deep learning used in IoT-enabled healthcare transformation to provide better patient monitoring and diagnostics
Authors: Bhavishya Katta
Published: December 2024

Deep learning's and the internet of things' revolutionary capabilities are generating a dramatic shift in the healthcare sector. An examination of the possible monetary chaos that may ensue from healthcare systems implementing deep learning for patient identification and monitoring through the internet of things is undertaken in this study. Wearable sensors, smart devices, and internet-connected medical equipment have made it possible for medical personnel to monitor their patients' respirations, heart rates, and other physiological indicators in real time. But the massive amounts of complicated data produced by these gadgets make analysis and diagnosis difficult. Deep learning algorithms do a great job of sifting through this ever-growing heap of medical records. Data collected from sensors, electronic health records (EHRs), and patient reports can be automatically analyzed for complex patterns and relationships using Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks. Clinicians can use this ability to better diagnose patients, identify warning signals, and tailor therapies to each individual's needs. This study presents the specifics of an Internet of Things (IoT) healthcare system that employs convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and long short-term memories (LSTM) for tasks such as feature extraction, data classification, prediction, and development. When it comes to healthcare settings, using real-time updated deep learning models raises questions about interpretability, privacy, and accessible resources. The study demonstrates that the Internet of Things (IoT)—specifically, Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM)—can enhance healthcare. These systems enable optimization of therapies, real-time diagnosis of diseases, and risk predictions. Healthcare that is both accessible and inexpensive can improve with the application of these ideas. Through networked devices and sophisticated analytics, the combination of the Internet of Things (IoT), Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) can significantly improve disease detection, individualized therapy, and patient monitoring.
Mathematical Model of Management of Interactive Services in Information Systems
Authors: Muminov Bahodir
Published: December 2024

In modern society, information technologies are developing rapidly, which requires new interactive services in various fields, in particular, information systems. Development of mathematical models is important for effective management of such services. In this article, we study the processes of developing mathematical models of interactive service management in information systems and their implementation.  Interactive services are services that allow interaction with users. Thanks to these services, users receive information faster, which speeds up their decision-making process. Therefore, it is important to manage services more efficiently and quickly through mathematical models in this area. The article also considers the main difficulties and problems related to the management of interactive services in information systems, the role and importance of mathematical models in solving these problems. Our goal is to offer new approaches and methods for more effective management of interactive services in information systems.
Stipulations Forthe Tofu Factory Location by Employing The AHP Method
Authors: Kodrat Kimberly Febrina , Sibuea Siti Rahmah , Sitorus Hasan
Published: December 2024

The best qualifiedtofu will win the competition, so geological and climate citeria are considered the main priorities based on the analysis results involving AHP to determine the tofu factorylocation. Tofu factories are assigned as one of the small and medium industries and determining their locations greatly influences the sustainability of such industries since the determination not only greatly brings positive impacts on the factoryconstruction, but also reduces economic problems in the future. This research was aimed at specifying the priority criteria percentage in the locationselection; therefore, the research applied the use of AHP to determine them. The research found that the percentage of the next priority might refer to the availability of labors(26.94%), the criteria for market and marketing distance (14.93%), the criteria for transportation facilities (11.36%), the criteria for supporting facilities and utilities (7.08%), and finally the distance criteria fromthe location to the raw material suppliers. The distance to the raw material suppliers is very much prioritized in stipulating the location because the supply of raw materials does not take place every day, for example, the main raw materials, such as,soybeans, can be ordered once a month. Other aspects of the criteria are relied on the level of importancewhich is the final choice for building a tofu factory objectively.
Analysis of The Utilization of Palm Oil Liquid Waste (POME) as A Biogas Power Plant at Palm Oil Mill Bandar Pasir Mandoge
Authors: Parmansyah Wahyu , Rimbawati Rimbawati , Pratama Chandra , Evalina Noorly
Published: December 2024

The development of oil palm plantations in Indonesia is so rapid. Palm oil produces liquid waste in the form of Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME). POME waste, if left untreated, will result in environmental pollution, especially in aquatic ecosystems. The Pasir Mandoge Biogas Power Plant (BPP) is a power plant built by PTPN IV Bandar Pasir Mandoge which utilizes POME waste which is the product of the Pasir Mandoge Palm Oil Mill into a new and renewable energy source in the PTPN IV Bandar Pasir Mandoge area. This study aims to determine the process of utilizing POME waste as a Biogas Power Plant at the Palm Oil Mill Bandar Pasir Mandoge as well as the amount of POME waste and biogas volume needed to produce 1,1 x 2 MW of power. This research uses a qualitative approach. Data collection was carried out by interview, observation, and documentation methods. Data analysis uses data reduction, data presentation, and conclusions drawn. The results showed that the total volume of biogas produced from 1.320 tons of FFB was 23.760 m3. With a production capacity of 60 Tons/Hour and POME produced at 60% with a production hour of 22 hours/day. Biogas produced per m3 POME is 30m3/m3 with a storage period of 44 hours. To produce 1,1 x 2 MW of power, it requires 2,640 tons of palm oil FFB, 1.584 m3 of POME waste, and 47,520 m3 of biogas. To meet the capacity of 2 MW.