bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Racial and Socioeconomic Disparities in Pediatric Asthma Emergency Care
Authors: Aydın Serdar , Caldwell Camran
Published: October 2024

The aim of this paper is to build a model to compare the relative impact of race and ethnicity and insurance type on pediatric Emergency Department utilization for asthma. A binary logistic regression model using relevant variables from 2022 NHIS survey data was conducted to compare asthma ED visit odds ratios of racial and ethnic minorities and publicly insured children. The results suggest that insurance type has slightly greater influence over asthma ED visits than race and ethnicity. Publicly insured children had the highest unadjusted odds ratio (1.88 [CI 95% 1.09-3.24)]) followed by Non-Hispanic Black children (1.80 [0.92-3.52]) and Hispanic children (1.51 [0.80-2.86]). The data are possibly biased toward exclusion of well-controlled asthmatics that may affect the resulting odds ratios. More socioeconomic variables would provide a more complete analysis. The paper has direct implications for health service providers and policymakers. Providers are encouraged to provide equitable, culturally competent care to asthmatics and policymakers are encouraged to embrace policies that promote better access for Medicaid beneficiaries, improved air quality and housing conditions for low-income children, and better racial representation in the provider workforce. The paper collates many existing sources of research on asthma disparities as a backdrop for examination of recent survey data pertaining to differences in asthma ED utilization between populations. It supports existing theories and work being done to mitigate poor asthma outcomes in children that are exacerbated by biological and systemic factors.
The Role of Distance Learning in Shaping Indonesia Golden Generation: Student Interaction, Engagement, and Satisfaction
Authors: Suseno Giri , Hendarti Titin , Ramadani Suci Putri
Published: October 2024

This research explores the critical role of student interaction in enhancing engagement and satisfaction in the context of Open and Distance Learning (ODL) at the Open University in Indonesia. Amidst the increasing adoption of digital education platforms, this study examines how dynamic and effective student interactions and engagement influence educational satisfaction outcomes in online environments. Using a quantitative approach, this study employed Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to analyse responses from 120 students who participated in online tutorial sessions. The findings reveal that student interaction significantly increases student satisfaction and engagement, with engagement serving as a mediating factor that improves the overall educational experience. This study confirms that high-quality interactions are essential for student engagement and satisfaction and emphasises the need for educational platforms that support strong interactive features and prompt instructor feedback. This research contributes to the literature by emphasising the important role of interaction and engagement in ODL settings and suggests practical implications for educational practitioners and policy makers. Enhancing interactive experiences in online learning can facilitate higher levels of student engagement and satisfaction, thereby supporting the formation of a competitive and adaptive golden generation in Indonesia's digital era.
Never Without My Mobile Phone: the Relationship between Nomophobia, Social Media Addiction and Emotion Regulation Difficulties
Authors: Dolapoğlu Nazan , Türk Ezgi , Yürür Emre Kaan , Şahin Can Merve , Alçı Deniz , Tulacı Rıza Gökçer , Baykan Hayriye , Karlıdere Tunay
Published: October 2024

Objective: Nomophobia (No MObile PHone PhoBIA) refers to the concern or fear that individuals experience when they're without their mobile phone or they're unfit to use it. This research aimed to elucidate the relationship between nomophobia, social media addiction, and emotion regulation difficulties in university students.
Method: A total of 100 volunteer medical school students, 55 female and 45 male, with an average age of 23, are included in this study. The questionnaires included sociodemographics and social media usage characteristics, The Turkish Nomophobia Scale, the social media addiction scale, and the emotion regulation difficulties scale. The data were collected in a face-to-face manner by the researchers.
Results: There was a moderately positive, statistically significant relationship between the emotion regulation difficulties scale total score, the social media addiction scale total score, and the total scores of the Turkish Nomophobia Scale.
Conclusion: Emotion regulation difficulties may explain nomophobia and social media addiction. Developing emotion regulation strategies may help reduce nomophobia and addictive use of social media.
Sense of Purpose in Life Predicts University Performance and Attrition
Authors: Alderson Jacob E , Lewis Nathan A , Hill Patrick L , Turiano Nicholas A
Published: October 2024

Individual differences are important predictors of academic success. A sense of purpose in life is gaining increasing attention as a key individual difference factor to foster in university students. The current study examined whether a sense of purpose in life, a dispositional tendency to pursue goals and activities in line with one’s overarching life direction, predicted better academic success across several years of university. Students (n = 769) at a large, U.S. public university were asked to complete a baseline survey in the summer prior to entering university, which included measures for a sense of purpose and background characteristics. Students were then followed throughout their first three years of university. Results demonstrated that higher levels of purpose were associated with a higher grade point average (GPA), more credits earned, less credits dropped, and an increased odds of persisting through the first three years of university. A sense of purpose also appeared to buffer the negative effect of low entrance scores on university GPA. These findings support cultivating a strong sense of purpose prior to entering university as an effective means of improving a variety of academic outcomes.
Desafios e estratégias na formação de professores para a educação inclusiva e direitos humanos na educação básica
Authors: Silva Marlene da , Mercado Elisangela Leal de Oliveira
Published: October 2024

Este texto discute a problemática da formação de professores em educação inclusiva e direitos humanos na educação básica, com o intuito de refletir como a formação docente pode ser pensada para promover uma educação inclusiva baseada nos princípios dos direitos humanos Consiste em uma pesquisa qualitativa de natureza exploratória, baseada na análise de literatura relevante e dados existentes, a pesquisa examina como a formação docente pode ser aprimorada para melhor incorporar práticas inclusivas e respeitar os direitos humanos. Os resultados indicam que, apesar de avanços legislativos, persistem desafios significativos devido à falta de recursos específicos e à persistência de preconceitos. Conclui-se que a formação de professores ainda necessita de uma abordagem mais integrada que inclua não apenas conhecimento técnico, mas também competências emocionais e éticas. A pesquisa ressalta a importância de preparar educadores para serem agentes de mudança, capazes de implementar uma educação verdadeiramente inclusiva. As implicações deste estudo sugerem a necessidade de reformas nas políticas de formação docente para atender às demandas da educação inclusiva moderna.
Direitos Humanos, educação inclusiva e saberes docentes: desafios e perspectivas para a formação de professores do AEE
Authors: Santos Estêvão Barbosa dos , Cunha Marion Machado
Published: October 2024

Este artigo analisa a articulação entre os princípios dos direitos humanos, a educação inclusiva e os saberes de experiência dos professores do Atendimento Educacional Especializado (AEE). A Educação Inclusiva é entendida como um processo que visa garantir o acesso, a permanência e o sucesso de todos os estudantes, respeitando e valorizando suas peculiaridades. Para tanto, realizou-se leituras que abordam essa temática, bem como documentos que orientam as políticas públicas de educação no Brasil e no mundo, trata-se de um levantamento bibliográfico qualitativo com abordagem descritiva, por meio de estudos, em pesquisa de relevância sobre o assunto em destaque. Constatou-se que há uma convergência entre os princípios dos direitos humanos e a educação inclusiva, uma vez que defendem a dignidade, igualdade, liberdade e a participação de todas as pessoas na sociedade, sem discriminação ou exclusão. Também colocamos em relevo alguns desafios para a efetivação dessa articulação na prática educativa, tais como: a necessidade de uma formação docente que contemple a inclusão, a garantia de recursos materiais e pedagógicos acessíveis, a promoção de uma cultura de respeito à diversidade e a participação efetiva da comunidade escolar. Por fim, considera-se que a articulação entre os princípios dos direitos humanos e a educação inclusiva é fundamental para a construção de uma sociedade mais justa e democrática
Legal Enforcement of Corruption Criminal Act PT Asuransi Jiwasraya (Case Study of Decision 2931 K/Pid. Sus/2021)
Authors: S Adelina Mariani , Sitanggang Djernih , Sudjiarto Tatok
Published: October 2024

This study aims to evaluate the judicial decision in the corruption case involving PT Asuransi Jiwasraya (Persero) based on Verdict Number 2935 K/Pid.Sus/2021, as well as examine the liability of insurance companies in cases of policy payment failures. The research employs a normative legal method with a statute approach, relying on secondary data from documents and legal literature. Data analysis is conducted qualitatively by categorizing and selecting data, which is then analyzed deductively and presented descriptively. The findings indicate that the judge in Verdict Number 2935 K/Pid.Sus/2021 affirmed the legal violations that harmed the policyholders. The liability of the insurance company can be addressed preventively through regulations that provide legal certainty and repressively through criminal law enforcement and civil lawsuits by policyholders for PT Asuransi Jiwasraya (Persero)’s default. Law enforcement authorities are expected to be more proactive and stringent in handling corruption cases, and the government needs to enhance regulations related to policyholder protection, including the establishment of a Policy Guarantee Institution Act. Educating the public about their rights as insurance policyholders is also crucial for raising awareness and vigilance. Further research is necessary to explore the factors contributing to insurance companies’ failures to fulfill their obligations and the effectiveness of existing regulations. Implementing these recommendations is anticipated to create a more just and transparent legal environment, providing better protection for the public.
The Relationship between Self-Concept and Job Satisfaction on the Performance of Private High School Teachers
Authors: Puspitasari Anjani , Widayatsih Tri , Mulyadi Mulyadi
Published: October 2024

This study aims to find out and analyze: (1) The relationship between self-concept and teacher’s performance, (2) the relationship between job satisfaction and teacher’s performance, (3) the relationship between self-concept and job satisfaction together on teacher’s performance. This study is quantitative research with partial correlation and multiple correlation methods. This research was conducted at a private high school in Seberang Ulu 1 District, Palembang with 89 teacher respondents. Data collection techniques are in the form of questionnaires and documentation. The validity test uses the validity of the construct while the reliability test uses Cronbranch Alpha. The prerequisite test for analysis uses the normality test, linearity test, multicollinearity test and the data are analyzed using partial correlation analysis and multiple correlation followed by the t-test. The results of this study showed that there was a significant relationship between self-concept and job satisfaction on the performance of private high school teachers in Seberang Ulu 1 District, Palembang with a correlation value of 0.533, the simultaneous contribution or contribution of self-concept and job satisfaction variables to teacher’s performance was 28.4% while 71.6% was determined by other variables.
The Influence of Leadership Effectiveness and Organizational Justice on Teacher’s Performance
Authors: Agustina Yayuk , Kristiawan Muhammad , Rahman Andi
Published: October 2024

This study aims to determine and analyze the effect of organizational justice leadership effectiveness on teacher’s performance. This refers to the findings of previous researchers on how principal leadership and organizational justice have an impact on teacher’s performance. The novelty in this study is the improvement of teacher’s performance through the level of leadership effectiveness and organizational justice of school principals. This research was conducted at Palembang high schools 1, 2, and 4, with a total of 60 respondents from 150 populations using random sampling techniques. This study uses quantitative research methods. Data were obtained by distributing questionnaires to research subjects with a Likert scale rating scale. The results of the data analysis obtained the conclusion that leadership effectiveness and organizational justice together have a significant influence on teacher’s performance with a percentage value of 34%. This shows the contribution of the level of leadership quality and organizational justice of a leader, namely the principal, to the performance of teachers at school.
Feeding Ecology of Roe Deer, Capreolus capreolus L., during summer in southeastern Norway
Authors: Selås Vidar , Bjar Gunnar , Betten Ola , Tjeldflaat Lars Olav , Hjeljord Olav
Published: October 2024

Ten radiocollared Roe deer were followed over three summers, resulting in 2316 map locations. The animals utilized a mixture of forest and agricultural land. Cover and forage availability were the main determinants of habitat selection. Forest plantations on rich sites were the most preferred habitat. Open habitats like meadows were used mostly at night. Grain-fields were avoided. The animals fed on a variety of forbs and browse species, particularly wood anemone (Anemone nemorosa L.) in early spring, and meadosweet (Filipendula ulmaria L.) throughout the summer. Browsing increased from early to late summer. This coincided with a change in the feeding-resting rhythm, indicating a decrease in overall forage quality. Carrying capacity of the study area is discussed in relation to quality of summer habitat.
Sexual dimorphism in the skull of Arctic Foxes Alopex lagopus L. from Svalbard
Authors: Frafjord Karl
Published: October 2024

Sexual size dimorphism in 12 skull and mandible dimensions of Arctic Foxes Alopex lagopus from Svalbard was examined. Males (n = 59) were significantly larger than females (n = 51) in 11 of the measurements (average 4.0%, range 3.2 - 4.7%), and females were larger in one measurement (30.2%) that was negatively correlated with overall skull size. The last variable was not included in multivariate statistics since the individual variability was large. Zygomatic breadth was the single variable with best discriminating power, classifying 68% of the specimens to correct sex. All 11 variables classified 77% of the specimens correctly. Discriminant function scores of the sexes overlapped much, but the means were significantly different. Svalbard foxes appear to be smaller than Arctic Foxes from most other populations, but sexual dimorphism was not notably smaller.
Age, growth and food of the Burbot Lota lota in two eutrophic lakes in southeast
Authors: Vøllestad Leif Asbjørn
Published: October 2024

The growth and food of the burbot Lota lota was studied in two neighbouring meso-eutrophic lakes in southeast Norway. The burbot grew slower and reached smaller theoretical maximum lengths in Lake Øgderen than in Lake Rødenes (L∞ = 40.5 cm vs 69.5 cm). The diet was also different. In Lake Øgderen the burbot ate mainly ruffe Acerina cernua, smelt Osmerus eperlanus, and Mysis relicta. In Lake Rødenes the burbot also ate large quantities of Gammaracanthus loricatus and Pailasea quadrispinosa. These two amphipods are suggested to be key food items especially for the younger burbot.
A review of feeding and reproduction in large baleen whales (Mysticeti) and Sperm whales Physeter macrocephalus in Norwegian and adjacent waters
Authors: Christensen Ivar , Øien Nils , Haug Tore
Published: October 2024

A review of the feeding and reproduction of Greenland right Balaena mysticetus, Blue Balaenoptera musculus, Fin Balaenoptera physalus, Sei Balaenoptera borealis, Humpback Megaptera novaeangliae and Sperm whales Physeter macrocephalus in Norwegian and adjacent waters is presented. The available information indicates that Greenland right whales and Blue and Sei whales, which are still at low abundances, rely on pelagic crustaceans as their preferred food. Fin and Humpback whales, which are much more numerous, have a broader diet also including Capelin Mallotus villosus and Herring Clupea harengus. The Sperm whale, which is quite numerous along the continental slope, eats mostly cephalopods and bottom fishes. Data on reproduction are sparse, but indicate that the female reproductive cycle spans at least two years for the large baleen whales, with gestation periods around one year. However, since both reproductive and feeding patterns of whales are likely to change with time, historical information should be supplemented with new investigations, with special emphasis on the ecological contexts.
The landsnail Euconulus fulvus (Gastropoda: Pulmonata) found on willow grouse (Lagopus lagopus)
Authors: Andersen Johan , Mehl Reidar
Published: October 2024

A find of a fullgrown specimen of Euconulus lulvus (Müller) was made during an ectoparasitic investigation of grouse on Tranøya, Troms county, northern Norway.
Fen malacocenoses in Dovrefjell (S. Norway)
Authors: Pokryszko Beate M.
Published: October 2024

The Malacofauna of 37 topogenous, soligenous and mixed fens in Dovrefjell consists of 18 snail species and 3 slugs, with 1 – l0 species per locality and 5 - 358 individuals per 10 1 litter; at most localities single species dominate strongly. The number of species and individuals and the dominance structure of the malacocenoses depend on the fen type, litter pH and Ca content, and altitude. Two of the four records of Vertigo parcedentata (Al. Braun) are new.
Seasonal changes in activity of Arctic foxes Alopex lagopus L. in Svalbard
Authors: Frafjord Karl
Published: October 2024

Daily and seasonal activity patterns of Arctic foxes Alopex lagopus were studied on the western coast of Svalbard from 1986 to 1989. The activity of radio collared foxes (n = 11, including two pups) was recorded on a chart recorder, and the activity of litters of pups (n =6) was observed in denning areas. Only one collared fox, a female, was known to be breeding. The range in activity by month and individual was about 10 - 60%, and yearly means were 32% and 36% in adult males and females, respectively. Variation between months was not significant. A seasonal variation was found although no two seasons were different from each other. Average percentage of activity in the summer was 40%, and in the winter 15%. No influence on the rate of activity of temperature and wind speed was found. Foxes averaged 39% activity in nighttime hours (2000 - 0800) and 28% active in daytime hours (0800 - 2000) (p = 0.06). Three adults (two males, one female) and one pup that were monitored when living in the same bird cliffs influenced each others activity only to a small extent.
Differences in haul-out pattern in two nursing ringed seal Phoca hispida pups
Authors: Lydersen Christian , Ryg Morten Skrede , Hammill Mike O.
Published: October 2024

This paper describes activity of two nursing ringed seal Phoca hispida pups from Svalbard based on 35 days of continuous recordings from VHF-transmitters glued to the fur of the pups. While still whitecoated the pups spent respectively 10.4% and 63.7% of the recorded time in the water, and were captured or observed at respectively 6 and 7 different breathing holes. The fact that the pups spend much time in the water while still nursing will result in skilled divers at an extremely early age. This, and the high number of breathing holes used by the individual pups, are considered to be adaptations to avoid surface predators.
Wolf and foxes reject diseased reindeer calf
Authors: Mysterud Iver , Mysterud Ivar , Wikan Steinar
Published: October 2024

*No abstract*
Bathyarca grenophia (Mollusca, Bivalvia) utilises Astrorbiza arenaria and Rhabdammina abyssorum (Foraminifera) as hard substrate on ooze bottoms
Authors: Schander Christoffer
Published: October 2024

The marine bivalve Bathyarca grenophia (Risso,1826) has been found epizoic on the foraminiferans Astrorhiza arenaria Norman, 1876 and Rhabdarina abyssorum M. Sars, 1868 in central Norway. The upright position of some foraminiferans and the habitats of arcoid bivalves are discussed.
Summer pelaged weasels in winter: Indication of winter reproduction
Authors: Hjortdal Jon , Dahl Svein Olaf , Hufthammer Anne Karin
Published: October 2024

Two weasels Mustela nivalis (L.) were observed on April 4 and 18, 1992, respectively, in the western parts of Hardangervidda, southern Norway. The weasels were both in summer pelage (walnut brown above and white below), in a season when the weasel normally has a completely white coat. The first observed weasel was caught, and age-determination showed that it was born during the early winter months. Thus, summer pelaged weasels in winter are a strong indication of successful winter reproduction.
Akademik Güdülenme Ölçeğinin Geçerlik ve Güvenirlik Kanıtlarının Uluslararası Öğrenciler İçin İncelenmesi: Türkiye’deki Batı Trakyalı Yükseköğretim Öğrencileri Örneği
Authors: Memet Fatma , Oğuz Duran Nagihan
Published: October 2024

Akademik motivasyonun, çeşitli duygusal, eğitsel, mesleki değişkenlerle ilişkili olduğu bilinmektedir. Bu nedenle akademik motivasyon her düzeydeki öğrenci için önemli bir kavram olarak öne çıkmaktadır. Uluslararası öğrenciler söz konusu olduğunda bu değişken sosyal entegrasyon ve üniversiteye aidiyetten başlayarak, çeşitli açılardan öğrencinin yaşamını akademik, sosyal ve psikolojik açılardan etkileyebilme potansiyeline sahiptir. Türkiye’de yükseköğrenime devam eden öğrenciler arasında Batı Trakya Türk Azınlık Mensubu (BTTAM) uluslararası öğrencilerin önemli bir yeri olduğu görülmektedir. Bu öğrenciler için yükseköğretimde yürütülecek rehberlik ve psikolojik danışmanlık uygulama ve araştırmalarında nitelikli ölçme araçlarının kullanılmasına özen gösterilmesi, araştırmalarda elde edilecek bulguların bilimsel gücü bakımından önem taşımaktadır. Bu araştırmada Akademik Güdülenme Ölçeğinin (AGÖ; Bozanoğlu, 2004) bazı geçerlik ve güvenirlik kanıtları BTTAM uluslararası yükseköğretim öğrencilerinde incelenmiştir. Çalışmada Türkiye’de yükseköğrenime devam eden 311 BTTAM öğrenciden veri toplanmıştır. Ölçeğin yapı geçerliliğini incelemek için uygulanan iki ayrı Doğrulayıcı Faktör Analizi (DFA) sonucunda 3 boyutlu modelin tek boyutlu modele kıyasla daha iyi uyum gösterdiği tespit edilmiştir. Ölçeğin iyi düzeyde iç tutarlılığa sahip olduğu belirlenmiştir( α= .88, ω = .88 ve λ6 = .90). Sonuçlar AGÖ’nün BTTAM uluslararası öğrencilerle yürütülecek rehberlik hizmetlerinin etkililiğinin sınanabileceği veya akademik motivasyonun çeşitli değişkenlerle ilişkilerinin inceleneceği çeşitli araştırmalarda kullanılmak üzere bazı geçerlik ve güvenirlik kanıtlarına sahip olduğunu, ancak akademik motivasyonu ölçmeye yönelik ölçme araçları konusunda yeni çalışmalara ihtiyaç duyulduğunu göstermiştir.
Meslekten Ayrılan Öğretmenlerin Tekrar Eğitime Kazandırılması: Yasal Düzenlemeler ve İyileştirmeler
Authors: Gökten Bayrak Özge
Published: October 2024

Eğitim sistemlerinde öğretmenlerin rolü, öğrencilerin akademik ve sosyal gelişimi açısından son derece kritik bir öneme sahiptir. Ancak son yıllarda meslekten ayrılan öğretmenlerin sayısında ciddi bir artış yaşanmaktadır. Bu durum, eğitim kalitesini tehdit eden bir sorun haline gelmiştir. Bu çalışma, meslekten ayrılan öğretmenlerin deneyimlerine dayanarak, öğretmenliğe geri dönmek için gerekli gördükleri düzenleme ve iyileştirmeleri incelemeyi amaçlamaktadır. Olgu bilim deseninde tasarlanan bu araştırmada, 22 meslekten ayrılan öğretmenle yapılan yarı yapılandırılmış görüşmelerle elde edilen veriler, içerik analizi ile analiz edilmiştir. Katılımcıların deneyimleri üç ana tema etrafında toplanmıştır: a) okul ve öğrenme/öğretme süreçlerine yönelik düzenlemeler, b) mesleğe dair iyileştirmeler, c) paydaşlarla olan ilişkiler ve iletişimde iyileştirmeler. Araştırma sonuçları, öğretmenlerin deneyimlerinin dikkate alınmasının, eğitim politikalarının şekillendirilmesinde kritik bir rol oynadığını vurgulamaktadır. Bu çalışma, meslekten ayrılan nitelikli öğretmenlerin mesleğe dönmelerini teşvik etmek ve hizmet içi öğretmenlerin meslekte kalmalarını sağlamak için eğitim sisteminde çok yönlü düzenlemelerin gerekliliğini vurgulamaktadır. Sonuçlar, öğretmenlerin iş tatminini artıracak ve mesleki bağlılıklarını güçlendirecek öneriler sunmaktadır.
Exploring Fatigue Crack Initiation in Helical Gears: Impact of Carburization and Frictional Influences
Authors: Assi Abdullah Dhayea
Published: October 2024

A computational model is presented to analyze the fatigue crack initiation period in helical gears, incorporating considerations for heat treatment via carburization and friction effects. The aim is to determine the number of stress cycles necessary for the initiation and growth of initial cracks, while investigating the impact of dynamic behavior. This study employs a dynamic gear model with two degrees of freedom in torsion, developed using MATLAB, and incorporates the Papadopoulos criterion for fatigue analysis. The computational results are benchmarked against the strain-life method. The findings underscore the significant influence of the friction coefficient between surfaces, heat treatment, and dynamic loads on the growth of initial fatigue cracks. For instance, with a friction coefficient (μ) of 0.5, the initial crack forms on the tooth surface (y=0) in both methods, with the (ε-N) method suggesting 28-65 cycles and the Papadopoulos criterion indicating 101-156 cycles. The latter accounts for the greater influence of residual stresses. Additionally, untreated gears exhibit a minimum number of loading cycles for initial crack appearance at 1.07 × 104 cycles. In contrast, carburized gears demonstrate an extended lifespan, requiring 1.45 × 105 loading cycles for crack initiation in our example. This emphasizes the efficacy of carburization in enhancing gear durability.
Assessing the Comparative Toxicity of Salvia Officinalis Extracts and Copper Sulphate on Melanopsis Nodosa, a Freshwater Snail
Authors: Al-Obaidi Mohammed J. L. , Abbas Ali H. , Samer Fadhaa O.
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the molluscicidal properties of Salvia officinalis extracts against Melanopsis nodosa snails, with a focus on environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional chemical molluscicides. Melanopsis nodosa, a common freshwater snail in Iraq, is an intermediate host for diseases affecting humans and animals. Traditional molluscicides, such as copper sulphate, pose environmental and non-target organism risks. S. officinalis, known for various medicinal uses, was explored for its potential molluscicidal activity. Snails were collected from Muhyii Canal, Baghdad, and exposed to different concentrations of S. officinalis extracts and copper sulphate in controlled laboratory conditions. The study evaluated mortality rates at 24-, 48-, 72-, and 96-hours exposure, using the WHO method for molluscicide testing and Probit analysis for mortality calculation. Results showed significant molluscicidal activity of S. officinalis extracts, with the LC50 values of 15.53 ppm (24 hrs), 6.821 ppm (48 hrs), 4.288 ppm (72 hrs), and 0.0735 ppm (96 hrs). Compared to copper sulphate, the extracts were less effective but still significant, indicating the potential of S. officinalis as an environmentally friendly molluscicide. This study contributes to the search for safer molluscicides, highlighting S. officinalis extracts' effectiveness against M. nodosa. These findings could aid in controlling snail populations, thereby reducing the spread of snail-borne diseases, with lower environmental impact compared to traditional chemical molluscicides. Further research is suggested to understand the exact mechanism of snail mortality caused by these extracts.
Analysis of Chisel Plough Shovel Designs Using Finite Element Methods
Authors: Al-Najjar Sameh Q. J. , Jasim Hiba Abdali
Published: October 2024

The chisel plow is the most common plow due to its ease of operation. It goes deep into the soil to a relatively large depth. It also does not leave large clumps on the soil surface after plowing, as it breaks and loosens the soil without turning it. In this paper, three types of chisel plow tine designs (shovel, reversible, and pointed) were used for simulation to show which design is better. The plow was made in a state company of the automotive industry and equipment /mechanical factory. The input data of the simulation is based on real data field performance parameters which are moisture and soil resistance. CATIA Software was used to design the frame and tine that was used in this research, the simulation method (Finite Element Method) is done using ANSYS 2020. The material added to the tine plow has been unity for the three types. Also, the boundary conditions for the three models were fixed, namely fixing the tine plow stand and applying the load. In this study, three kinds of agricultural chisel plow tine are used in the analysis for designing stress, strain, and deformation. The simulation results showed the shovel tine is safer than the other two types.
Investigating the Electrical, Power Factor, and Figure of Merit Characteristics of Cadmium Oxide Nanostructures Fabricated via Thermal Evaporation in Vacuum
Authors: Khalef Wafaa Khalid , Nassif Rafah Alwan , Hilal Raghad Hamid , Mohammed Sura R.
Published: October 2024

A cadmium dioxide nanostructure was fabricated on silicon and quartz substrates through oblique angle deposition (OAD). The synthesis involved the initial thermal evaporation of high-purity cadmium metal films at varying deposition angles on the substrates, followed by a 1.5-hour oxidation process at 773 K in a conventional furnace to produce cadmium oxide nanostructures. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed the development of crystalline structures within the cadmium oxide (CdO) films. The deposition angle exhibited a significant impact, influencing the preferred orientation along the (111) planes more substantially than the normal incident angle. I-V measurements and assessments of electrical conductivity were conducted under both light and dark conditions for the CdO films. The photocurrent generated in an oblique (Al/CdO/p-Si/Al) heterojunction exceeded that of a standard detector under illumination. The investigation explored the thermoelectric properties of CdO nanomaterials, including the figure of merit (M), power factor (P.F.), and Seebeck coefficient (S), for both normally deposited and obliquely deposited films. The results demonstrated an enhancement in the figure of merit with oblique deposition, potentially attributed to increased roughness, resulting in reduced thermal conductivity and an elevated figure of merit. All findings indicated superior performance for deposition angles (θº = 50º & 70º) in comparison to normal deposition (θº = 0º).
OFDM Transmission in Rayleigh Fading Channel for S-Box and 3D Chaotic Maps Based Encrypted Image
Authors: Ayad Jenan , Hasan Fadhil Sahib , Ali Alaa H.
Published: October 2024

Data encryption is an important part of the communication system. The Chaos essential properties, make it a crucial candidate for encryption applications. There is a compromise between complexity and security in previous studies. In this study, high security was achieved with low complexity. This paper proposed a 3D chaotic map and S-Box has been cascaded to get a high efficiency as complex algorithms or multi-iteration schemes. The first stage is ciphering using 3D cat-map, the second stage is S-box based on 3D henon map, while the third stage is another ciphering stage using 3D henon map. In this study, various encryption techniques, including cipher algorithms and substitution box, are combined with the OFDM system to establish a secure image transmission over a Rayleigh fading channel. QPSK modulation is used to ensure the simplicity of the proposed system. Six gray images are used, Lena, the cameraman, Barbara, Baboon, pepper and Elaine for testing and comparing with previous works. Security analysis is performed to evaluate the quality and security of the encryption process, the entropy value reach 7.99, correlation coefficient is around zero and the histogram is uniform. In addition, the key size is 2630. For image transmission evaluation, the PSNR and BER are utilized and it reached 10-5 for BER. According to the statistical results, the proposed image encryption scheme is secure and efficient.
Evaluating the Impact of Government Policies on Circular Economy Adoption in the Construction Sector
Authors: Hoareau Carol Emilly , Tam Nicholas
Published: October 2024

The construction sector is both essential for global economic progress and one of the largest contributors to pollution, resource depletion, and energy consumption. Given the urgent need to adopt more sustainable practices, governments in developed countries have introduced policies aimed at fostering a circular economy in this sector. These policies emphasize the use of green materials to reduce resource consumption, energy use, and greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with global sustainability goals. The waste hierarchy further governs these policies, prioritizing waste reduction, reuse, and recycling. This study analyzes the effectiveness of these government policies in promoting circular economy principles, particularly the adoption of green materials in the construction industry. Our findings reveal that while these policies have led to measurable reductions in energy consumption and emissions, the extent of green material adoption varies significantly across countries. Key factors influencing this variation include economic incentives, regulatory enforcement, and the level of industry acceptance of green technologies. One of the most important results of this study is the identification of significant gaps between policy intent and actual industry practices. In many cases, green materials, despite their favorable characteristics, have not been widely implemented due to economic, technical, and market barriers. These findings underscore the need for stronger government incentives and more consistent policy enforcement to drive broader adoption of sustainable practices. Future studies should focus on overcoming these barriers, exploring the long-term economic impacts of green material adoption, and evaluating how policy frameworks can be optimized to ensure more widespread.
Environmental Impact of Synthetic Dyes on Groundwater in Malaysia: Sources, Distribution, Transport Mechanisms, and Mitigation Strategies
Authors: Chan Alfred , Rubiyatno  , Akhmetov Zarina
Published: October 2024

Synthetic dyes, extracted from natural sources like insects, plants, coal, and ochre, have become prevalent due to their advantages over natural dyes. However, their production has led to increased environmental pollution, particularly in groundwater. Groundwater contamination from synthetic dyes occurs through advection, dispersion, and retardation. This review aims to highlight the environmental impacts of synthetic dyes on groundwater, elucidate the mechanisms of dye transport, and propose effective strategies for monitoring and mitigating contamination. Urban runoff carries dyes from surfaces such as roofs, parking lots, and roads into stormwater systems, while agricultural runoff transports dyes from products like soil conditioners, fertilizers, and seed coatings into water bodies. In groundwater, dyes move through the aquifer via advection, dispersion, and retardation, all influenced by groundwater flow and geological conditions. The advection process involves the bulk movement of groundwater carrying dissolved dyes, while dispersion causes dyes to spread and dilute over time and distance. Retardation, which involves the adsorption of dye molecules onto soil particles, slows dye movement, prolonging their presence in groundwater. Understanding the sources, distribution, and movement of synthetic dyes in groundwater is crucial for developing strategies to protect water resources and reduce environmental and health impacts. The extensive use of dyes in industrial and domestic activities necessitates comprehensive monitoring and management to ensure sustainable groundwater quality.
Endocrine-Disrupting Compounds in Urban Soils of Malaysia: Occurrence, Contamination, and Impacts on Health and the Environment
Authors: Lie Michael , Kasongo Joseph , Mtui Elias , Rubiyatno  , Tongco Jovale Vincent
Published: October 2024

Endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) have garnered increasing concern in recent years due to their association with severe health issues and significant environmental impacts. EDCs, which can interfere with endogenous hormone systems, are diverse in structure and are often characterized by low molecular mass and halogen substitutions. Their presence in the environment, originating from both natural and synthetic sources, has been well-documented in water bodies, but studies on their occurrence in soils remain limited. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the occurrence, contamination, and impacts of EDCs in the urban soils of Malaysia. The paper discusses the primary sources of EDCs, including pharmaceuticals, pesticides, industrial chemicals, and combustion byproducts, and examines the pathways through which these compounds enter the soil. Health risks associated with exposure to EDCs, as well as their ecological consequences, are also explored. The review highlights the current status of EDCs contamination in Malaysian soils, identifies gaps in research, and outlines the challenges in monitoring and mitigating these contaminants. Understanding the dynamics of EDCs in soil is crucial for developing effective strategies to protect human health and the environment in urban settings.
The Shift Towards Green Construction: A Review of Environmental Management Strategies and Sustainable Materials in Developed Countries
Authors: Sen Brendan , Tam Nicholas , Maharjan Rabin , Maharjan Amit Kumar , Talukdar Gaurav
Published: October 2024

Green materials have proven to be highly effective in managing environmental impacts when implemented in construction activities. The aim of this review paper is to critically examine the shift towards green construction practices in developed countries, with a focus on the integration of environmental management strategies and the use of sustainable materials. Currently, developed countries such as Switzerland, Japan, and China have significantly benefited their local environments by implementing these practices in the construction industry. Authorities and governments in these nations have taken proactive steps to establish standards and policies for the construction sector, encouraging more industries to participate in environmental management and protection efforts. The enforcement of rules and regulations in these developed countries has led the construction industry to prioritize environmental management and protection. The use of green materials in construction projects, including autoclaved aerated concrete blocks and green roof technology, has shown positive trends in advancing environmental protection and management. Developing countries are encouraged to adopt similar initiatives and utilize green materials in their construction industries to help secure the importance of environmental sustainability.
Groundwater Contamination by Heavy Metals in Malaysia: Sources, Transport, and Remediation Strategies
Authors: Wong Wei Lin , Emre Mehmet , Talukdar Gaurav
Published: October 2024

Groundwater contamination by heavy metals is a pressing environmental concern, particularly in regions highly dependent on groundwater as a freshwater source. While Malaysia primarily relies on river water, certain states and islands depend on groundwater for their supply. Research on heavy metal contamination in Malaysia’s groundwater remains limited, making it crucial to study the distribution and mobility of contaminants to develop appropriate remediation strategies. In addition to natural sources, anthropogenic activities such as landfills, mining, and the use of fertilizers contribute significantly to heavy metal pollution in groundwater. Factors like rainfall, fluctuating groundwater levels, and low soil pH can exacerbate heavy metal leaching into aquifers. Various models and techniques, including 2D resistivity imaging and MODFLOW, are used to assess groundwater flow and contaminant transport. These models suggest that contaminant concentrations decrease with increased depth and radial distance from pollution sources such as landfills and mining areas. The health risks associated with heavy metal exposure through groundwater consumption are significant, necessitating effective remediation strategies. Phytoremediation is an economical solution for groundwater containing low concentrations of heavy metals, while permeable reactive barriers may be suitable for more complex cases, pending detailed site investigation. This review aims to examine the current state of knowledge on heavy metal contamination in Malaysia’s groundwater, focusing on sources, distribution patterns, and movement of pollutants. It also seeks to evaluate existing remediation methods, including phytoremediation and permeable reactive barriers, while identifying gaps in research, particularly concerning risk assessments and heavy metal speciation.
Causas de abandono de un tratamiento ambulatorio intensivo por Trastorno por uso de sustancias. Perspectiva hacia el diseño de programas
Authors: Irazoqui Gustavo , Groisman Rafael , Gruccos Isis , Brady Juana , Cassinelli Carola , Cerviño Ximena , García Luciana , Pavlovsky Federico
Published: October 2024

Introducción: Las razones por las cuales los pacientes abandonan un tratamiento para adicciones son poco estudiadas. Materiales y métodos: Mediante un análisis cuanti-cualitativo se evaluaron los datos de 55 pacientes que interrumpieron una propuesta ambulatoria intensiva entre junio del 2019 y noviembre del 2021 y sus respuestas a un cuestionario. Resultados: La tasa de abandono fue del 29,2%, con una mediana [IC del 95%] de 113 días [47-255]. Del total, 40 respondieron el cuestionario, el 12,5% informó un aumento en el consumo y el 75% estaba bajo tratamiento de salud mental. El principal motivo de abandono fue personal, relacionado a ambivalencias y la percepción de no tener un problema. Las razones asociadas al enfoque del programa incluyeron la abstinencia global y la terapia grupal. Conclusiones: Las estrategias en la admisión, la diversificación de propuestas y la inclusión de terapia vincular podrían mejorar la eficacia de los programas ambulatorios para adicciones.
Regulación emocional y riesgo de autolesión en adolescentes
Authors: Aizcorbe Guillermo , Gallo Mario Nicolás
Published: October 2024

Introducción: El propósito de esta investigación es dar cuenta del estado de situación de la conducta autolesiva y sus asociaciones con diferentes aspectos de la desregulación emocional. Materiales y método: Se realizó una investigación de diseño cuantitativo no experimental, observacional, descriptivo y transversal, llevada a cabo en 3 colegios secundarios de la ciudad de Río Cuarto, Córdoba, durante el desarrollo de un programa de extensión auspiciado por la Universidad Siglo 21. Se aplicó la escala DERS con el propósito de obtener información sobre la desregulación emocional y la escala CRA para valorar la conducta autolesiva. Resultados: Fueron encuestados un total de 107 alumnos, de los cuales el 43% manifestó haberse autolesionado al menos una vez; dentro de este grupo, el 5,35% expresó que “frecuentemente” o “siempre” lo hizo con intención de quitarse la vida. Discusión: Se presentan resultados que indican que la autolesión es un fenómeno creciente dentro de la población adolescente, que la edad de inicio tiende a adelantarse en relación a la literatura vigente y que los sujetos con mayores dificultades en la regulación emocional presentan más frecuencia de pensamientos y conductas autolesivas. En este estudio se presenta un solapamiento entre la conducta autolesiva y los intentos de suicidio. Conclusión: El presente estudio encuentra una alta frecuencia de adolescentes con autolesión, confirmando la tendencia al alza y una fuerte influencia de factores anímicos al momento de realizar la conducta, especialmente de dificultades en el control de impulsos.
Demencia con Cuerpos de Lewy y Afasias progresivas primarias: criterios diagnósticos actuales
Authors: Ollari Juan , Berrios Waleska , Blanco Romina , Ciufia Natalia , Colli Liliana Patricia , Deschle Florencia , Fernández María Cecilia , Rubiño Valeria , Labos Edith
Published: October 2024

El espectro de enfermedades neurodegenerativas que afectan principalmente a la cognición y el comportamiento abarca desde la enfermedad preclínica asintomática hasta el deterioro cognitivo muy leve y la demencia franca. En este artículo se procedió a  la revisión  de los criterios actuales para el diagnóstico de la demencia con cuerpos de Lewy, segunda causa más frecuente de demencia neurodegenerativa en personas mayores de 65 años luego de la enfermedad de Alzheimer (EA) y las afasias progresivas primarias que se distinguen por producir un compromiso temprano y aislado de las funciones lingüísticas, y en cuya evolución desarrollan un síndrome complejo caracterizado, además del compromiso del lenguaje, por la presencia de deterioro cognitivo progresivo, trastornos de conducta y compromiso de los sistemas motores. También pueden representar la forma de comienzo de una variante atípica de la enfermedad de Alzheimer (EA), no siendo raras las formas mixtas o no caracterizables.
Nuevos criterios diagnósticos clínico y neuropatológicos de la encefalopatía traumática crónica: una revisión narrativa
Authors: Russo María Julieta , Salvat Fernando , F. Allegri Ricardo , Sevlever Gustavo E.
Published: October 2024

La encefalopatía traumática crónica es una enfermedad neurodegenerativa resultante de la acumulación de numerosos traumatismos craneoencefálicos, para la cual no existe un diagnóstico en vida definitivo ni un tratamiento específico. Entre los factores de riesgo asociados se encuentran: la exposición a deportes de contacto que predisponen a traumatismos craneoencefálicos clínicos y subclínicos reiterados, la presencia de la apolipoproteína E4 y la edad. A escala microscópica, la lesión patognomónica de la enfermedad implica agregados de proteína tau fosforilada en neuronas, con o sin astrocitos en forma de espina, en las profundidades del surco cortical alrededor de un pequeño vaso sanguíneo, en lo profundo del parénquima y con un patrón irregular, que pueden estar acompañado en ocasiones de otros depósitos de proteínas anormales y prevalentes en otras entidades como placas de beta-amiloide, TDP-43 y/o alfa-sinucleína. Desde el punto de vista clínico se caracteriza por un curso lento e insidioso que se inicia con síntomas cognitivos leves, alteraciones del comportamiento y desregulación emocional, y progresa hacia la aparición de síntomas motores tipo parkinsonianos y demencia. La única forma de diagnosticar definitivamente la ETC es después de la muerte, durante una autopsia del cerebro. A pesar de que se han propuesto criterios diagnósticos prometedores, no están actualmente validados. Se están desarrollando biomarcadores que determinen en vida los cambios fisiopatológicos de la entidad sin necesidad de la biopsia.