bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of the Impact of Fiscal Transparency on Local Government Debt
Authors: Yao Han
Published: February 2024

Since socialism with Chinese characteristics has entered a new era, the important task of reforming the fiscal and taxation system has been put on the agenda, and the report of the Twentieth National Congress proposes to accelerate the improvement of the modern financial and budgetary system, and it is necessary to establish a comprehensive, standardized and transparent budgetary system with scientific standards and strong constraints. This paper starts from the direction of standardization and transparency to study the problems related to fiscal transparency.  We do empirical analysis and research on fiscal transparency and local debt scale, and finally conclude that there is not a single relationship between the two, but both promote and inhibit the effect. Finally, it puts forward relevant suggestions from the perspectives of fiscal transparency, proxy and budget constraint.
FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH OUTCOMES IN LAPAROSCOPIC COLONIC SURGERY: A ANALYSIS OF EARLY EXPERIENCE
Authors: ULLAH R , BABAR Y , SHAH M , KHAN A
Published: February 2024

Laparoscopic-assisted colonic (LAC) surgery has gained acceptance for various colonic diseases, yet comprehensive studies on diverse patient demographics and procedural outcomes are essential. This study aimed to evaluate 96 LAC surgeries, examining patient characteristics, surgical procedures, conversion factors, and perioperative outcomes. A one-year case series conducted at multiple centers, including the Department of General Surgery, MRHSM Hospital Pabbi Nowshera, Jinnah Teaching Hospital Peshawar, Cat C Hospital Tangi Charsadda, and DHQ Hospital Daggar Buner, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan in the duration from January 2023 to December 2023. Demographic diversity, prevalent colonic conditions, and detailed surgical procedures were analyzed. Conversion factors and perioperative outcomes, aligned with international standards, were documented. The cohort displayed diverse demographics, with predominant male participation. Surgical interventions, notably right hemicolectomy, demonstrated variable distributions. Conversion to open surgery was infrequent and primarily associated with locally advanced disease. Perioperative outcomes aligned with global findings, emphasising reduced pain, accelerated recovery, and shorter hospital stays. This study contributes valuable insights into the safety and efficacy of LAC across varied colonic diseases, supporting its role in modern colorectal surgery. The findings underscore the importance of careful patient selection and affirm the procedure's favourable perioperative profile.
INCREASING DIVERSITY IN NURSING TO REDUCE HEALTH DISPARITIES AND ACHIEVE HEALTH EQUITY
Authors: SAFDAR F , QADIR S
Published: February 2024

In modern healthcare systems, achieving health equity remains paramount, yet persistent health disparities among diverse populations present significant challenges. The study's main objective is to find the increasing diversity in nursing to reduce health disparities and achieve health equity. This mixed-methods study was conducted in Bahawal Victoria Hospital Bahawalpur from January 2023 till December 2023. The study enrolled a diverse cohort of 550 participants, including registered nurses (RNs), nursing students, nurse educators, and healthcare administrators. Participants were recruited from various healthcare settings, including hospitals, community health centers, and academic institutions. The study included 300 registered nurses (RNs) aged 22 to 65, comprising 75% females and 25% males, demonstrating diverse ethnic representation. Additionally, 150 nursing students aged between 20 and 30 years participated, with 85% females and 15% males, reflecting a diverse demographic composition. Furthermore, 50 nurse educators aged 30 to 55 years were involved, with 60% females and 40% males showcasing diversity. Most participants, comprising 70%, acknowledged that nursing diversity positively impacts patient care and outcomes. However, only 45% felt that their workplace adequately supports diversity initiatives. Regarding healthcare disparities, 60% identified access to care, 50% recognized quality of care, and 45% acknowledged health outcomes disparities as prevalent issues. It is concluded that diversity in nursing holds significant promise for reducing health disparities and advancing health equity. The study's findings underscore the importance of organizational support for diversity initiatives to address systemic barriers in healthcare delivery.
ASSOCIATION OF LOW BMI AND ANOVULATION WITH PRIMARY INFERTILITY IN WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE
Authors: GUL H , SABIR S , SADIQ N , BIBI R , KHAN FA , AHMAD R , HIDAYAT H
Published: February 2024

Infertility, defined as the inability to conceive after one year of regular unprotected intercourse, affects millions of couples worldwide, with prevalence rates varying across developed and developing nations. The main objective of the study is to find the association between low BMI and anovulation with primary infertility in women of reproductive age. This cross-sectional study was conducted in Khyber Teaching Hospital Peshawar from January 2023 to December 2023. A total of 340 female participants were added using convenient sampling methods. Data collection consisted of comprehensive clinical evaluations, including anthropometric measurements to assess BMI, hormonal assays to determine ovulatory status and detailed reproductive histories. BMI was calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared (kg/m^2), with participants categorized into low BMI (BMI < 18.5 kg/m^2) and normal BMI (BMI ≥ 18.5 kg/m^2) groups. Data were collected from 340 female participants. The mean age was 28.5± 4.2 years for those with low BMI and 30.1± 3.8 years for those with normal BMI. Among underweight individuals, 50 were classified as infertile and 20 as fertile, totaling 70 participants. Of normal-weight individuals, 40 were infertile, and 120 were fertile, totaling 160 participants. In the overweight group, 30 were barren, and 50 were fertile, totaling 80 participants. Low BMI showed a significantly increased adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of 3.00 (95% CI: 1.80 - 5.00, p < 0.001) for infertility. Age, socioeconomic status, smoking, and alcohol consumption did not show significant associations with infertility. It is concluded that low BMI is significantly associated with an increased risk of anovulation and primary infertility in women of reproductive age, even after accounting for potential confounders.
INCIDENCE OF KIDNEY STONES IN KIDNEY TRANSPLANT RECIPIENTS
Authors: MANAN FE , REHMAN KU , ULLAH I , SHAHINDA DR
Published: February 2024

The incidence of kidney stones in kidney transplant recipients is a significant concern within the realm of post-transplant complications. The study's main objective is to find the incidence of kidney stones in kidney transplant recipients. This retrospective study was conducted at the Institute of Kidney Diseases Peshawar from 2017 to 2023. Data was collected from 420 kidney transplant patients. All patients above 18 years with available medical records who underwent renal transplants in IKD and outside IKD and who presented to IKD for follow-up were included in the study—patients with a history of kidney stones before the transplant process were excluded. Demographic information, including age, gender, and pre-transplant comorbidities, was recorded for each patient. Data were collected from 420 patients with kidney transplants. Out of 420 patients, 35 patients developed kidney stones after transplantation. The mean age of the patients who developed stones was 48.7 ± 10.2 years. There were 45.7% male and 54.3% female patients in the kidney stone group. 25.7% of patients had pre-transplant DM. Most kidney stones analyzed in the study comprised calcium oxalate, representing 18 cases, followed by calcium phosphate with eight instances. The correlation analysis revealed that age and gender did not significantly correlate with kidney stone formation in transplant patients, with p-values of 0.32 and 0.17, respectively. It is concluded that kidney transplant recipients exhibit a notable incidence of kidney stone formation, with tacrolimus-based immunosuppressive regimens potentially contributing to this risk. While age and pre-transplant diabetes show trends toward association with kidney stone development.
PREVALENCE AND ANTIBIOTIC SUSCEPTIBILITY PATTERN OF GRAM NEGATIVE BACILLI ISOLATED FROM URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS
Authors: KHAN JA , QAMAR K , GOHAR F , AHMAD J , BANO S , FAROOQ K
Published: February 2024

The aim of the study was to find out the prevalence and antibiotic susceptibility pattern of Gram negative bacilli isolated from urinary tract infections. This cross-sectional study was conducted at the department of urology Lady reading hospital Peshawar from February 2021 to August 2023. Mid-stream urine samples were collected from individual having the symptoms of urinary tract infection and were processed and identified through various biochemical tests. Following CLSI recommendations, the isolated bacteria were screened for sensitivity to antibiotics. Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method was used in the current study. Through MS Excel, data were analyzed. The Chi-square test was applied for calculating the p value (significant i.e. <0.05) and antibiotic resistant profiles of GNB isolated from urine samples. A total of 60000 urine samples were collected in which 65% (n=3900) patients were outdoor and 35% (n=2100) were hospitalized patients. Among them 20 % (n=1200) were culture positive. Among which 58% urine samples were from outdoor patients and 42% samples were from hospitalized patients. E.coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, P. aeruginosa and Acinetobacter   baumannii were the Gram negative bacilli (GNB) isolated in our study. The most prevalent (72%) GNB was E. coli. Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from indoor patients’ urine samples showed high resistance. The antibiotic sensitivity pattern of K. Pneumonia was same as E.coli both in out and indoor patients. The .Acinetobacter baumannii resistance pattern was quite lower observed as 85% in Nitrofurantoin (F), 80% in Ampicillin (AMP) and 11% in Fosfomycin (FOS) respectively   in   urine samples of   indoor as compare to outdoor patient. The most prevalent GNB observed in our study were E. coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, P. aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii involved in UTIS. The choice of antibiotic for its treatment were Fosfomycin, Piperacillintazobactam, Cefoperazone-sulbactam, Amikacin   and Nitrofurantoin.
A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY ON MATERNAL AND FETAL OUTCOMES ASSOCIATED WITH ASSISTED REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGIES
Authors: HAQ W , AWAN F , TAJ S , ARSH DR , BHITTANI R
Published: February 2024

Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) have revolutionized the landscape of reproductive medicine, offering hope to couples facing infertility challenges. The study's main objective is to find the maternal and fetal outcomes associated with assisted reproductive technologies. This retrospective cohort study was conducted in Lady Reading Hospital Peshawar from July 2019 to June 2023. The study includes 850 participants who underwent ART procedures between 2021 and 2022. Details of the ART procedures, such as the technique employed, the number of embryos transferred, and the utilization of preimplantation genetic testing, were meticulously documented. Maternal outcomes were a focal point, with a comprehensive assessment of pregnancy-related hypertensive disorders, gestational diabetes, mode of delivery, and any postpartum complications. Data was collected from 850 participants. The mean maternal age was 33.5 years (SD = 4.2), and the mean BMI was 25.8 (SD = 3.5). The primary causes of infertility varied, with male factor infertility being the most prevalent at 40%, followed by ovulatory dysfunction at 30% and unexplained infertility at 20%. The ART procedures in the study cohort comprised In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) at 60%, followed by Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) at 25%, and other ART techniques at 15%. Regarding the number of embryos transferred, the majority received a single source (70%), with 20% receiving two starts and 10% receiving three or more. It is concluded that pregnancies conceived through Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) exhibit a higher prevalence of pregnancy-related hypertensive disorders and gestational diabetes compared to naturally conceived pregnancies.
Pengembangan aliran sungai sebagai potensi Pembangkit Listrik Mikro Hidro serta edukasi dan akulturasi di Desa Meranti Tengah Dusun Batu Rangin Kecamatan Pintu Pohan Meranti Kabupaten Tobasa
Authors: Siregar Zufri Hasrudy , Siregar Roswani , Rigitta Prinsi , Nurdiana  , Puspita Riana , Refiza  , Zurairah Masdania , Purba Indra Gunawan , Tanjung Jarnawi Hadi Saputra
Published: February 2024

Where rainwater is stored in the form of barrels, tubs, or ponds. Oil is as important as water for human life. Because the majority of Indonesians like fried food, cooking oil is still needed for household needs. Used cooking oil, oil produced from frying, is often used to save money, but its carcinogenic properties can cause cancer in the future. The purpose of this activity is to change the paradigm and change the paradigm of PTPN III Sei Mangke mothers. The results of this activity were 25 people, namely the age range of 28-37 years with a percentage of 36%, and the highest education level was high school with a percentage of 48% and there was a paradigm shift where previously they did not know until they understood based on the results of the questionnaire survey of the activity
Penanaman Mangrove untuk menjaga Pelestarian ekosistem pantai di Desa Nagalawan Kecamatan Perbaungan Kabupaten Serdang Bedagai
Authors: Chaniago Erlita , Lubis Aisyah , Hasrizart Iwan
Published: February 2024

Mangrove forests on the coast are expected to maintain coastal stability. Mangrove trees can preserve coastal ecosystems, where it is known that one of the functions of mangroves is that they are a place for flora and fauna to live. Apart from that, mangroves also have the function of maintaining water and air quality and also function to maintain climate and weather. The role of mangroves in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem is so important, so it is appropriate for students of the agricultural faculty of the Agrotechnology study program to take an active role in preserving mangrove forests. It is hoped that in the future this will continue for other coastal areas in the North Sumatra region to maintain the stability of the coastal ecosystem
Sosialisasi kawasan keselamatan operasi penerbangan di Desa Durian Kecamatan Pantai Labu Kabupaten Deli Serdang
Authors: Samosir Hairul Amren , Sihombing Panangian Mahadi , Amril Muhammad
Published: February 2024

Rules related to aviation operation safety areas (KKOP) authorized by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) must be complied with. The regulations related to the KKOP must involve the community and related government employees to be implemented optimally. This is done to avoid the cause of aircraft accidents in the airport flight area. Therefore, awareness activities related to KKOP rules need to be carried out to the community and relevant local government employees. KKOP socialization in Durian Village which is directly adjacent to Kualanamu International Airport in Deli Serdang has been carried out by Medan Aviation Polytechnic lecturers through community service programs. The airport was chosen because it is the fourth largest airport with an area of 1,650 ha and is among the top 10 busiest airports in Indonesia. KKOP socialization materials include descriptions related to community activities that are contrary to KKOP rules. In addition, the elaboration of binding legal aspects related to KKOP was also conveyed in socialization activities. Thus, the rules related to KKOP are expected to be obeyed by the community around the airport. Topics related to the rights of the community around KKOP were also presented to the community.
Pembuatan taman baca WA Pesek Hutan Kanal Kecamatan Medan Johor
Authors: Sukarsih  , Permana Aryo Bimo Setya , Panjaitan Tuah
Published: February 2024

The implementation of community service has a specific goal, namely to raise awareness about the importance of reading among school students and utilize the Hutan Kanal land by constructing a reading garden for the community. This activity is carried out in collaboration with the Community Care Association (WA PESEK), a partner with legal status located at Jl. Karya Jaya No. 136 Pangkalan Mansyur, Medan Johor Subdistrict. This community service plays a crucial role as an educational garden for students and the surrounding community, with the hope of making a positive contribution to enhancing reading interest and sustainable utilization of the Hutan Kanal land
Saudi EFL Students’ Perceptions Towards the Impact of YouTube on Improving Speaking Skills
Authors: Albargash Amani I , Algraini Farah N
Published: February 2024

The significance of integrating technology in education, especially the widely and frequently used platform “YouTube”, is found in its ability to provide accessible and various educational resources, meeting the needs of diverse learning styles and enhancing active engagement. Since YouTube is one of the preferred applications utilized by Saudi individuals, this study investigated the impact of using YouTube on enhancing the speaking skills of EFL male and female Saudi students from different Saudi universities. This study was conducted during the first semester of the academic year 2021- 2022. A questionnaire was used as the study instrument. It was adapted from Binmahboob’s (2020) study and modified according to the study’s purposes. The questionnaire contained 17 items divided into two sections. 79 EFL students from different Saudi universities participated. Fifty-nine of them were females, while 20 were males. The findings of the study revealed that YouTube videos had a high positive perspective from the participants. In other words, it can be concluded that YouTube videos enhance the speaking skills of EFL university students. Based on these finding, some recommendations and implications were provided.
Management of Mathematics Learning Based on Interactive Digital Worksheets to Improve Students' Critical Thinking Ability
Authors: Utaminingsih Sri , Amalia Isna , Sumaji Sumaji
Published: February 2024

The use of interactive digital technology in learning is an alternative strategy to create joyful learning activities. Therefore, interactive digital worksheet requires development by considering the critical thinking skills of elementary school students. This research determined the interactive digital media worksheet necessity based on critical thinking skills, compiling design, feasibility identification, and effectiveness test of the interactive digital media worksheet based on critical thinking skills for elementary school students. This research and development applied seven steps: (1) potential and problem identification; (2) data collection; (3) product design; (4) design validation; (5) design revision; (6) product test; and (7) product revision. The researchers collected the data with interviews, observations, questionnaires, and tests. The research results found the necessity of interactive digital student worksheets in managing mathematics learning to improve students' critical thinking skills. The interactive digital LKS design was based on critical thinking skills. The development considered the three components, such as (1) Planning; (2) implementing; and (3) evaluating. Planning consists of (1) the analysis of student characteristics; (2) the analysis of learning achievements (CP); (3) the determination of the learning objectives (TP) and the learning objective flow (ATP) and the assessment; (4) the selections of media, learning methods, and teaching materials. The implementation of the interactive digital student worksheets in learning was based on the problem-based learning model and formative and summative tests for the evaluation. The expert validation found the interactive digital worksheet was valid and reliable. The teacher responses reached the percentage of 87.5% while the student with 90%. The product test obtained an average of N-gain for the control group was 0.31 while the experimental group was 0.50, indicating an increment of students' critical thinking skills in mathematics. Thus, interactive digital worksheet implementation is useful in managing learning. The implementation was also useful for further development to manage various challenging activities and to realize meaningful learning.
Bridging the Educational Gap: Guidelines for Thai Non-Credentialed Teachers' Learning Management
Authors: Intasena Autthapon , Worapun Wittaya , Poonputta Apantee
Published: February 2024

The assignment of non-credentialed teachers to subjects outside their formal qualifications remains a significant challenge in educational contexts worldwide. This study aimed to investigate the specific issues faced by non-credentialed teachers and to provide comprehensive guidelines for their professional development. The study was designed in a survey approach emphrasizing the method of need analysis. Data were gathered from 268 stakeholders within the Thai educational system through a combination of questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The findings reveal a range of challenges experienced by non-credentialed teachers, shedding light on both content and pedagogical aspects of teaching. To address these challenges, this study offers a set of actionable guidelines encompassing administrative support, teacher development, and the establishment of professional learning communities. These recommendations aim to bridge the gap and ensure that non-credentialed teachers can effectively deliver quality education to students, even in subjects outside their formal qualifications. This research provides valuable insights for educational stakeholders and policymakers seeking to enhance the quality of teaching and learning in similar contexts worldwide.
Ukrainian HEI Students’ Perceptions and Attitudes Towards Fostering Media Literacy and Critical Thinking in EFL Learning
Authors: Lushchyk Yuliia , Bilotserkovets Marina , Fomenko Tatiana , Klochkova Tetiana , Berestok Olha , Tsyhanok Hanna , Shcherbyna Yuliia , Bilokopytov Vasyl
Published: February 2024

The study examined Ukrainian HEI students’ opinions and perceptions of media literacy and critical thinking skills in EFL learning before and after participation in the set of trainings. Being created in the framework of the Jean Monnet Module project “EU strategies extrapolation for boosting students’ media literacy in Ukrainian higher education”, it was aimed to empower students with essential skills for navigating the complexities of the modern media landscape, evaluating information sources, forming such students’ competencies as critical thinking, fact-checking, digital security, resistance to media manipulation. A sample of 40 second-year undergraduate students, aged 19 to 23, willing to develop their media literacy and EFL capacities, who demonstrated at least A2 level of English language proficiency, were questioned through Google Forms by means of the specially designed questionnaires. The outcomes of the study revealed that the issues of media literacy and critical thinking were of particular importance among the young people, but they also pointed out their awareness of being insufficiently skilled in working with media products, their concerns about the quality of digital content they had consumed and priorities of being independent in media consumption choices. The activities conducted during the study significantly affected students’ gaining knowledge of media development, their value-meaningful attitude to the media space, the desire to detect false information, and distinguish fakes, manipulation, propaganda, and disinformation.
Validity of PBEST Learning Model: An Innovative Learning to Improve Creative Thinking Skill and Entrepreneurial Science Thinking
Authors: Rahman Nanang , Sutoyo Suyatno , Lutfi Achmad
Published: February 2024

Based on the results of previous studies, evidence was acquired indicating that the creative thinking abilities of pupils in various locations of Indonesia still require improvement. Creative and innovative thinking in science learning integrated with entrepreneurship produces entrepreneurial science thinking. Learning interventions are needed to develop competitive graduates who can face challenges and rapid changes in the 21st century. This research aims to validate the Project Based Entrepreneurial Science Thinking (PBEST) learning model. The educational development research design used is the validation studies design, which tests two criteria, namely testing content validity (which is also called relevance) and construct validity (which is also called consistency). This validation involves three experts in science education, and the validation instrument uses a validation sheet. The research and data analysis indicate that the PBEST learning model consistently produces highly relevant results that meet rigorous validity and reliability standards (with a percentage of agreement ≥ 75%). The PBEST learning model consists of four stages, namely: (1) Observe and thinking project, (2) Design project, (3) Monitoring and evaluation project, (4) Economic value. The validation of the implementation supporting learning tools confirms the validity and reliability of the semester learning plans, lecture program units, student worksheets, student books, creative thinking skill tests, and entrepreneurial science thinking tests. The PBEST learning paradigm is applicable for enhancing both creative thinking skills and entrepreneurial science thinking.
Factors Affecting Online Teaching and Learning among Chinese High School Students: Education Equality Perspectives
Authors: Shi Jinzhu , Wareewanich Thitinant
Published: February 2024

Online learning is significant to promote education equality in high school sector. This research aims to explore the factors affecting students' acceptance of online learning, construct a structural equation model of high school students' online learning behavior, and propose measures to promote educational equity. The study employed quantitative research methods, utilizing online questionnaires to gather 633 data from high school students in Dazhou, Bazhong, and Liangshan regions. A comprehensive approach to data analysis was adopted, including descriptive statistical analysis, reliability and validity tests, confirmatory factor analysis, structural equation modeling, and path analysis. Key findings revealed the significant influence of online teaching quality and course content on students' perceived usefulness, ease of use, subjective norms, attitudes towards online learning, and their subsequent learning intentions and behaviors. The study confirmed the mediating roles of these perceptions and attitudes in shaping students' engagement with online learning platforms. In conclusion, the research provides vital insights into the dynamics of online education in a high school setting. It highlights the need for enhanced teaching quality and course design to improve online learning experiences. The findings offer valuable implications for educators, policymakers, technology developers, and other stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of a collaborative approach to create more effective and equitable online learning environments. This study lays a foundation for future research and strategies aimed at optimizing the potential of online education, ensuring it is accessible and beneficial to all students.
Pengaruh Teacher Self-Efficacy dan Motivasi Mengajar terhadap Kesiapan Guru Menerapkan Pendekatan STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematisc)
Authors: Damayanti Anggi Tri , Lanawati Sri
Published: February 2024

Pendidikan tingkat Taman Kanak-Kanak bertujuan untuk melatih keterampilan dasar untuk mempersiapkan anak menghadapi tantangan abad ke-21. Sistem sekolah di seluruh dunia telah memprioritaskan pendidikan sains, dan menyadari peran pentingnya dalam kemajuan teknologi secara global. Pendekatan STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) telah dikembangkan sejak tahun 2010 untuk memenuhi kebutuhan pendidikan sains di sekolah. Penelitian ini mengamati implementasi pendekatan STEAM di Taman Kanak-kanak di Kabupaten Serpong, Tangerang Selatan, Banten. Penelitian ini menguji pengaruh teacher self-efficacy (variabel independen) dan motivasi mengajar (variabel independen) terhadap kesiapan guru (variabel dependen) dalam menerapkan pendekatan STEAM. Penelitian menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif jenis survey melalui kuesioner yang disebarkan kepada 143 responden di 12 Taman Kanak-Kanak di kabupaten tersebut. Data yang diperoleh kemudian dianalisis dengan menggunakan SPSS. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa secara individual, teacher self-efficacy mempunyai pengaruh yang positif dan signifikan (41,7%) terhadap kesiapan guru dalam menerapkan STEAM, sedangkan motivasi mengajar tidak mempunyai pengaruh yang signifikan secara statistik (9,8%) terhadap kesiapan. Namun secara simultan, teacher self-efficacy dan motivasi mempunyai pengaruh positif dan signifikan (27,8%) terhadap kesiapan guru. Temuan ini menggambarkan peran penting dari teacher self-efficacy dan motivasi mengajar dalam penerapan STEAM untuk siswa di taman kanak-kanak.
Artificial neural network-based home energy management system for smart homes
Authors: Ijala Abdullahi , Idowu-Bismark Olabode , Olugbeji Jemitola , Obadiah Ali , Oyeleke Oluseun
Published: February 2024

Energy efficiency is widely recognized as one of the most significant and economical ways to lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The aims and goals are that smart meters can evaluate and communicate in-depth real-time electricity usage, enable remote real-time monitoring and management of power consumption, and provide consumers with real-time pricing and analyzed usage information. The house energy management controller decides which loads will be powered based on the real home energy demands and the predefined load priorities. Artificial intelligence (AI) is being used increasingly in control applications due to its great effectiveness and efficiency. As a result, in this work, the author designed, simulated, and optimized an artificial neural network-based model simulation framework that simulates a home with a variety of home appliances and optimizes the total energy consumption of the home realistically through intelligent control of home appliances. The MATLAB application was used to model and examine the performance of four common household appliances: the water heater (WH), washing machine (WM), air conditioner (AC), and refrigerator (RG). The result shows a considerable reduction and savings in energy consumption without a decrease in consumer comfort.
Coping with math anxiety and lack of confidence through AI-assisted Learning
Authors: Inoferio Hermie V. , Espartero Marcelino , Asiri Masnona , Damin Michelle , Chavez Jason V.
Published: February 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) in education transforms the instructional processes and learning competence of students. AI can adapt to the individual learning needs of students. By analyzing students’ progress, performance, and preferences, AI systems can deliver tailored content, recommend additional resources, and provide feedback. The purpose of this study was to develop initial understanding on how AI models help students cope with math anxiety and lack of confidence in engaging with mathematics learning. This exploratory research established the connections between what students feel when using AI and how it benefits them. College students (n = 20) enrolled in different math-related programs (i.e., engineering, statistics/mathematics, computer science, education) were purposively sampled for a one-on-one interview. Thematic analysis indicated that students are now turning to AI models as a coping mechanism to alleviate math anxiety and boost their self-assurance. These AI models function as “mentors” and “math companions” that offer step-by-step explanations and personalized support. Their adaptability and personalized approach make mathematics more accessible to students, with the potential to reduce anxiety and enhance the overall learning experience. Moreover, the use of AI models encourages a sense of independence, motivating students to actively engage in self-guided learning. The findings open new questions about using AI models in improving the self-efficacy and confidence of students in mathematics learning. There is also an opportunity to build an AI-assisted learning with a focus on psychological interventions and behavioral interconnections mediating students’ academic performance.
Local plasty method in patients in distal forms of hypospadia
Authors:   Republican Scientific Center for Cardiovascular Surgery of the Ministry of Health and Social Protection of the Republic of Tajikistan, Ziyozoda Sorbon , Khojamuradov Gafur ,   Republican Scientific Center for Cardiovascular Surgery of the Ministry of Health and Social Protection of the Republic of Tajikistan, Rizoev Khairiddin ,   Medical Center “Madadi Akbar”, Sharipova Mavzuna ,   e Medical Center of the Executive Office of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan
Published: February 2024

Objective: Optimization of surgical treatment of patients with distal forms of hypospadias with insufficient or complete absence of prepuce. Materials and methods: The study material consisted of 12 patients who sought medical help for distal hypospadias in the period from 2020 to 2023. All patients were males, the average age of the patients was 5.6±1.2 years. Initially, three patients applied, after performing other types of surgery - 3 patients. Results: Regarding the engraftment of transplanted flaps, it can be said that in all 12 cases a normal regenerative process was noted. At the same time, in three cases, at the initial stage after the operation, there were signs of circulatory disorders, which were easily eliminated by relaxing the sutures, as well as using heparin ointment. Urofluometry indicators indicated a significant improvement in urodynamics in the postoperative period, the stability of which was confirmed by a second study one month and three months after the surgical intervention. Conclusion: The described technique significantly improves urodynamic parameters, and also reduces the frequency of relapses to a minimum.
Rationale for choosing mini access for liver echinococcectomy
Authors:   Republican Scientific Center for Cardiovascular Surgery of the Ministry of Health and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Tajikistan, Amonov Shukhrat
Published: February 2024

Objective: To justify the choice of the optimal mini-access for echinococcectomy from the liver using computed tomography. Materials and Methods: In 126 patients, comparative results of preoperative prediction of the parameters of surgical approaches to liver segments for echinococcosis were analyzed according to computed tomography data. Results: The obtained data were compared with intraoperative findings. The sizes of the detected echinococcal liver cysts, determined by computed tomography, varied from 80 to 190 mm, averaging 96±13 mm (M±σ). With mini-approaches, the maximum depth of surgical access was 61 mm, but the instruments made it possible to operate at a depth of up to 150 mm. The angle of the endosurgical operating angle (OAE) with a mini-access was 1.5- 2 times (132° versus 81°) higher than the OAE with traditional approaches, the area of the accessibility zone was 3 times (135 cm² versus 45 cm²) greater than the area of the accessibility zone with traditional operations (p<0.05). The use of computed tomography before surgery made it possible to most accurately determine the size and location of the liver hydatid cyst, determine the depth of the cyst from different surgical approaches, the expected angle of the classical and endosurgical surgical approach, thereby facilitating the selection of the optimal mini access for echinococcectomy from the liver. Conclusion: Minimally invasive approaches in the vast majority of situations can provide adequate conditions for open echinococcectomy when single hydatid cysts are localized in any segment of the liver.
Some aspects of the etiopathogenesis of formation of anemic cardiomyopathy
Authors:   Republican Clinical Center of Cardiology of the Ministry of Health and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Tajikistan, Emomzoda Ismatullo
Published: February 2024

The review article presents some issues of the etiopathogenesis of the formation of anemic cardiomyopathy. According to various sources, the pathogenetic onset of anemic cardiomyopathy should be considered a decrease in oxygenation or hemic hypoxia, which in the first stages is accompanied by the development of compensatory mechanisms. With the development of severe forms of anemia, systemic vascular resistance and afterload on the left ventricle significantly increase and lead to a decrease in the ejection fraction of the left ventricle, which subsequently leads to the formation of cardiac pathology in the form of “anemic cardiomyopathy”.
Postoperative complications during reduction mammoplasty
Authors:   Republican Scientific Center for Cardiovascular Surgery of the Ministry of Health and Social Protection of the Republic of Tajikistan, Saidov Mahmadullo
Published: February 2024

An analysis of the literature indicates that reduction mammoplasty continues to be a widely popular procedure in the treatment of macromastia. At the same time, there is inconsistency in reporting risk factors predisposing to postoperative complications. According to various studies, the frequency of postoperative complications during reduction mammoplasty ranges from 4.3- 8.2% to 14.0-23.0%. The most common complications were minor hematomas (8.1%), bleeding (4.0%), skin and nipple necrosis or suture dehiscence (8.9–41.7%), and delayed healing due to superficial infection (7.3-26.0%), which resulted in hypertrophic scars (13.0-20.0%), deep infection (1.1-8.0%) and seroma formation (1.2-14,0%) and change sensitivity of the nipple (8.4%) or breast (7.8%). Reoperation rates were 6.7% for scars, 1.4% for fat necrosis, and 1.0% for wounds. The incidence of complications in patients with and without concomitant diseases was 10.2% and 4.6%, respectively, i.e. 2.2 times more. Fat necrosis and infection were more common in obese patients. Smokers had a 2.03 times higher risk of infection and a 2.34 times higher risk of dehiscence. These studies can serve as the basis for preoperative patient education, choice of surgical method for reduction mammoplasty, and determination of the amount of postoperative care. In most cases, patients who have undergone reduction mammoplasty note an improvement in their quality of life, a decrease in pain and an increase in self-esteem. At the same time, the proportion of older patients wishing to improve their quality of life and physical function is increasing.
A Case of Winching technique: A practical approach for insuperable chronicaly occluded indwelling iliac venous stents
Authors: lu Emre
Published: February 2024

Chronic iliac vein occlusions and post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) are the major sources of life affecting symptomatic iliocaval venous obstruction contributing to the morbidity of chronic venous insufficiency and venous hypertension. Venous stenting is a treatment option for the management of PTS. Despite dedicated venous recanalization technologies, long-term patency rates of venous stents are still a matter of debate. Beside that, salvage of an occluded stent could be problematic or even impossible. It may be challenging to advance the balloon catheter distally to the occlusion, even after the lesion has been crossed with a guide wire. Here we describe a new technique for overcoming such difficult bottlenecks. In a supine patient, despite successful wire-recanalization of the vena cava, achieved after a popliteal access, the balloon catheter could not be passed through an occluded iliac vein stent and towards the vena cava. Consequently, the tip of the 260 cm wire, was retrieved with a snare from the vena cava and externalized through sheath inserted in the right jugular vein. Two separate balloon catheters were loaded over the two ends of the through and through guide wire and torque devices were used to lock at their exit ports. Occluded segments were afterwards crossed with the novel ‘Winching technique’ by pulling the balloon catheter instead of pushing it. We believe that this technique can speed up and facilitate the procedure for the occlusions that can be laborious to reanalyze by conventional methods.
Genome-wide identification and characterization of interleukin-18 gene family in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Bari Sayed , Hossen Md , Islam Md , Helal Md
Published: February 2024

Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) are cold freshwater fish species belonging to the Salmonidae family, and they hold significant economic importance in the global aquaculture industry. The Interleukin-18 gene family plays a crucial role in the immune response of Rainbow trout when combating viral infections. A wide range of computational approaches were conducted to investigate the functions, phylogeny, and expressions of IL-18 family genes. The study found that there were nine IL-18 genes present on eight chromosomes of Rainbow trout, and their encoded proteins were predicted to be distributed in the cytoplasm and nucleus. Genetic structures, motif and conserved domains analysis revealed that IL-18 genes in the same group have similar exons, motifs, and conserved domains. The phylogenetic study demonstrates the divergence of 38 IL-18 genes from three fish species into three distinct subgroups across time. The synteny analysis revealed the evolutionary mechanisms, such as gene duplications and mutations. In addition, the research investigated the expression of IL-18 genes in the liver tissues of Rainbow trout following infection with infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV). These findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of IL-18 genes in O. mykiss in response to pathogenic infection.
Clinical implications of the styloid process elongation: what the dental practitioner should know
Authors: Aoun Georges
Published: February 2024

The styloid process (SP) is a subtle osseous projection that arises from the undersurface of the temporal bone. It forms, with the styloid ligament and the lesser cornu of the hyoid bone, the stylohyoid chain. SP offers attachment to different muscles and ligaments and is surrounded by major nerves and vessels. Elongation of the SP is an uncommon condition. Some patients with elongated SP may experience a set of symptoms referred to as Eagle syndrome. The latter symptoms develop as a consequence of an aberrant SP irritating nearby anatomic structures. Eagle syndrome diagnosis is challenging; various imaging techniques are helpful in identifying the SP elongation, among them panoramic radiographs and three-dimensional images like CT and CBCT scans, which allow for better visualization. Depending on the severity, surgical or conservative treatment options are available for Eagle syndrome. However, it is advised to start out conservatively.
Gender differences in resting cardiovascular parameters and their reactivity to acute mental stress
Authors: Sudheer Christina , Jagadeesan Shivakumar
Published: February 2024

Background: Several cardiovascular disorders (CVDs) have been linked to abnormal cardiovascular reactivity to mental stress. Females are relatively protected from the onslaught of CVDs during their reproductive age. Mental stress tests (MST) have been known to unravel the susceptibility to CVDs.

Aims and Objectives: This study envisaged to observe cardiovascular parameters, that is, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and heart rate (HR) under resting conditions as well as their reactivity to mental stress in both genders.

Materials and Methods: The study group consisted of sixty-one males and sixty-one females satisfying the prescribed inclusion and exclusion criteria. Blood pressures and HR were measured/calculated in both groups under resting conditions and subsequently after subjecting to MST. The results were subjected to statistical analysis using an unpaired t-test, with significance at P < 0.05.

Results: Resting SBP was significantly higher in males (M = 116.16, F =105.00 mm of Hg), whereas resting HR (M = 77.33, F = 80.28 bpm) and DBP (M = 67.16, F = 67.36 mm of Hg) were identical. MST produced identical increases in SBP, DBP, and HR in both genders.

Conclusion: Males have a significantly higher resting SBP compared to females, but the reactivity of blood pressures (SBP and DBP) and HR to acute mental stress was identical in both genders (males and females).
Self-appraisal of communication skills in phase I medical students – A comprehensive analysis
Authors: Davis Aruna , Bahuleyan Biju
Published: February 2024

Background: Effective communication is the cornerstone of quality medical care. Competency-based medical education emphasizes the importance of communication skills training in medical education. Training sessions yield optimal results when participants are cognizant of their specific communication gaps. This study explores the self-appraisal of communication skills among phase one medical students at Jubilee Mission Medical College and Research Institute.

Aims and Objectives: The primary objectives of this study are to assess the self-appraisal of communication skills among phase I medical students and to identify specific areas of strength and weakness in various aspects of communication.

Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional study at the institution included all 1st-year medical students. Students self-assessed their communication skills using the quest verbal questionnaire, which examined their aptitude in various aspects of communication such as listening, acceptance, empathy, and conveying clear messages. Statistical analysis was performed to assess and categorize skill levels.

Results: Analysis indicated that a significant majority of students (74.74%) identified themselves as having good communication skills, with varying strengths in different aspects of communication. Notably, acceptance was a prominent skill among participants, while sending clear messages appeared to be an area needing improvement.

Conclusions: The present study identified the gaps in their listening skills and sending clear messages and based on these results, medical education programs might contemplate the incorporation of hands-on communication skill exercises and early-stage simulations within the curriculum. Attitudes, ethics, and communications sessions on communication skills when planned for students of different phases would be beneficial, for both the facilitators and students, if self-appraisal of students’ skills is done.