bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic sectoral diversification: A case study of the Gauteng provincial region, South Africa
Authors: Meyer Daniel Francois
Published: December 2023

From a theoretical point of view, a more diversified economy across all major sectors has more potential to grow and is more resilient to survive external shocks than more sectoral concentrated economies. The economy's diversification is a process; in most cases, structural change is required through policy implementation. The primary aim of this study was to analyze the relationships between the level of diversity (Tress Index) across sectors of the economy, GDP per capita (a proxy for economic development), domestic investment, employment and exports. The Gauteng province was selected as the study region because this region is a leading economic region in South Africa and the African continent. A quantitative methodology used time series secondary data from 1993 to 2021, with the diversification index selected as the dependent variable. Interesting results were achieved, leading to a new theory in development economics. When a region experiences an economic down-swing, sectoral concentration occurs, while diversification across sectors occurs in an economic growth environment. A positive relationship has been identified between economic diversification and the predictive variables, including economic development, domestic investment, employment and export. A policy of increased diversification across all economic sectors is a viable economic development strategy developing countries should implement within an environment for growth and investment.
Un frente a las distintas formas de opresión: desde Kant y más allá de Kant
Authors: Quiroga Noelia Eva
Published: December 2023

Si bien Kant ha sido considerado como el representante moderno del eurocentrismo, del racismo y del sexismo, me propongo argumentar que en su teoría del reconocimiento ético y jurídico se hallan las claves para rescatar una posición coherente con la defensa de una filosofía de la libertad, la igualdad y la pluralidad. Para ello, en la primera parte, considero el panorama de las críticas e interpretaciones dirigidas a Kant respecto de las distintas formas de opresión, para recuperar las razones para no descartar su filosofía como posible punto de partida para pensar un frente ante ellas. Luego, en la segunda parte, desarrollo la teoría kantiana del reconocimiento jurídico y ético-político como un doble frente ante las diversas formas de opresión, y la profundizo desde teorías críticas no-ideales para pensar con Kant y más allá de Kant.
Si-VirPraJa: Using an Immersive Technology to Learn Prehistoric Sites in Indonesia
Authors: Kurniawan Bayu , Shrestha Rajendra Prasad , Lazim Mohamed Jefferi bin Mat , Hamid Azmi bin Abd , Hariyono  , Sulistyo Wahyu Djoko , Utami Nugraheni Warih , Wahyuni Fitri
Published: December 2023

Nowadays, studying prehistoric sites in Indonesia has become convenient because of the touch of technology. We no longer need to spend money, time, and energy to visiting the sites in person. Virtual Reality (VR) is the commonly used immersive technology for virtualizing prehistoric sites. Cutting-edge research is utilizing Virtual Reality (VR) technology to construct virtual environments of prehistoric sites, allowing people to learn and enjoy them with flexibility. However, in the context of learning, its use is still quite limited due to general features. Therefore, it is necessary to develop applications with more complete and interactive learning features. The aim of this study is to develop a web-based Si-VirPraJa (Prehistoric Virtual Site) application. We employed research and development (R&D) to achieve the objectives of the research. Furthermore, we used the ADDIE development model, which includes analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation. We initiated the research by conducting a needs analysis study of the Si-VirPraJa App as expected by students and teachers. The needs analysis results formed the foundation for designing the application’s initial stage. Learning media experts tested it and provided assessments, suggestions, and comments. The Si-VirPraJa app, refined based on assessment results, suggestions, and comments from media experts, is implemented in a trial class to gather feedback from students and teachers. The findings suggested that students need a virtual tour-based application to study prehistoric sites in Indonesia. This necessary application must also include multiple features that facilitate learning. The findings from validation tests conducted by experts and trials class that the Si-VirPraJa application is viable for use as a learning media. The impact of using this application for learning is evident in students’ enhanced self-learning ability, improved comprehension of the material, and the generation of engaging and meaningful learning experiences.
Analyzing Institutional Open Access Publishing Activity
Authors: Thomas William Joseph
Published: December 2023

Scholarly communication librarians routinely promote Open Access (OA) publishing, encouraging their institutions' authors to increase their impact for the benefit of a greater number of readers. Researchers at East Carolina University (ECU) collected six years of ECU authors' publication data to analyze how much per year was free to read, and how much more could be made free for end-users to read. To do that, bibliographic information about the publications was merged with OA information provided by Unpaywall and Sherpa/RoMEO. Results were collated by author to target potential OA champions and for outreach to encourage green OA deposit when permitted. ECU's top journals, publishers, and funders were identified and our institution's OA rates were compared to those from multiple peer institutions. The authors also identified next steps, including adding data from 2021 and 2022 and analyzing that data for any potential effect of new OA memberships and publishing agreements, as well as continued outreach to authors
Leveraging Federated Authentication to Simplify Access: Understanding Changes in Access Mechanisms to Online Content
Authors: Felts John , Carpenter Todd
Published: December 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic is profoundly reshaping access to education and one of the areas impacted is access to electronic resources. While remote access has been a feature of our industry for decades, it was generally viewed as the exception. Now all of us have become remote users. This paper uses case studies to re-examine the remote access experiences of three libraries that navigated the shift to majority (or exclusive) remote access and how federated access has proven to save time and money for both small and large institutions alike. It also presents the genesis and ongoing evolution of the SeamlessAccess project, addresses privacy concerns related to accessing online content, and identifies potentially disruptive changes in browser technologies that are on the horizon.
Upending the Consortial Narrative: Our Story of Affecting Change Through Board Volunteerism
Authors: Clements Maureen , Markgren Susanne
Published: December 2023

The nature and purpose of academic library consortia can be both complex and obscure. Two technical services librarians discuss their involvement with the WALDO (Westchester Academic Library Directorsâ€™ Organization) consortium, its history, its growth, and its future in the current times of market consolidation and contraction. They also share some of the challenges, pitfalls, and joys of learning how to become a board member of an academic library consortium and the benefits of building new relationships across the vendor, library, and consortia spectrums.
Serials Analysis Directions Part 2: Finding Gems, Pulling Weeds, and Reclaiming Space: Case Studies from GreenGlass for Serials
Authors: Breeding Andy , Gabrio Katy , Roll Ann , Pope Barbara M.
Published: December 2023

The presenters of the session, "Serials Analysis Directions Part 2: Finding Gems, Pulling Weeds, and Reclaiming Space: Case Studies from GreenGlass for Serials" provided attendees with valuable perspectives on using GreenGlass for Serials to conduct serials collection review projects effectively, efficiently, and with more confidence. The first two presenters, Katy Gabrio and Ann Roll, are librarians who have used GreenGlass for Serials. They shared their reasons for reviewing serials collections, their libraries' goals for the projects, and the results. The third speaker, Andy Breeding, a senior product manager at OCLC, spoke about the history of GreenGlass and GreenGlass for Serials, as well as the time savings gained from using GreenGlass for Serials, and trends he noticed in serials holdings of libraries through the years.
Diversity Evaluation and Vendor Communication: The Effect on a Collection and Vendor Relationships
Authors: Speer Elizabeth
Published: December 2023

Recent events and efforts to embody The University of North Texas Health Science Center’s (UNTHSC) code of culture have necessitated the evaluation of policies and collections regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). In our assessment of resources, we found that few electronic resources provided medical-quality images with multiple skin tones. The inclusion of culturally inclusive images, especially dermatologic in nature, is imperative for the education of doctors who will treat patients of diverse backgrounds. Recognizing bias and a lack of relevant materials in our collection, UNTHSC drafted documentation reflecting DEI as a purchasing impact factor. We shared the documentation with vendors and explained the decision. This session discussed the process, conversations, and results of our communication with vendors regarding our collection and HSC and vendor relationships.
INCOME SMOOTHING AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Authors: Carvalho Flávio Leonel , Gomes Eric Henry Tago , Aranha Aparecido Vieira , Sassi Cecília Pereira
Published: December 2023

Income smoothing is a strategy aimed at altering accounting results in order to reduce fluctuations. In the other hand, by adopting corporate governance mechanisms it may be possible to reduce information asymmetry and, consequently, reduce the possibility of smoothing results. The general objective of the present study was to investigate the relationship between the adoption of corporate governance mechanisms and income smoothing. Financial data were selected from 211 Brazilian public companies between 2000 and 2015. The firms were separated according to whether or not they adhered to B3’s differentiated corporate governance segments. Income smoothing was measured using both the model by Eckel (1981) and a version of the model proposed by Leuz et al., (2003). The analysis was performed using non-parametric Wilcoxon rank sum tests and descriptive analyses. Based on the descriptive analysis, it was not possible to state that the group of firms adhering to the corporate governance levels had a smaller proportion of companies that smooth results; and the hypothesis that the degree of income smoothing is lower for such companies was not confirmed. The assumption that levels of corporate governance reduce the possibility of income smoothing was not validated based on non-parametric tests. Based on the descriptive analysis, it was concluded that both the proportion of companies that smooth results, and the degree of smoothing by organizations following the B3’s corporate governance levels are not lower than the ones shown by companies that do not follow the levels.
Does Debt Influence Earnings Management in Going Private Transactions in Brazil?
Authors: Ferreira Chaves Cecilia , Cirino dos Santos Wesley , Moura Lamounier Wagner
Published: December 2023

This paper aimed to analyze the influence of debt in earnings management of non-financial companies that were listed on the Brazilian capital market and went private by stock repurchase between 2002 and 2020. The companies that went private were matched by size and sector of activity with those that remained on the stock exchange market in the year prior to the offer announcement. Earnings management was estimated using discretionary accruals and debt was measured by Debt-to-Equity ratio and Total Debt ratio. The results suggest that companies that went public by repurchasing shares tend present negative earnings management. Also, it was found negative and significant relationship between earnings management and Debt-to-Equity ratio and company size. It is understood that the intensification of the monitoring of the managers' actions, mainly due to the publicity of the process implies the restriction of discretionary practices.
Perylene-Tetracarboxylic Diimide (PTCDI) Organic Cathode for Nonflammable K-Ion Batteries
Authors: Hu Jia Hui , Tang Wu , Fan Cong
Published: December 2023

3,4,9,10-Perylene-tetracarboxylic diimide (PTCDI) is an advanced and low-cost organic small-molecule electrode with 2-electron reaction (theoretical specific capacity CT=137 mAh g-1) in potassium ion batteries (PIBs). However, K metal anode is exceedingly active and risky. In order to eliminate security risks of K-metal batteries, triethyl phosphate (TEP) as a kind of cheap and nonflammable electrolyte is used for an extinguisher in K-ion batteries. In this paper, using 2 mol L-1 potassium bis(fluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (KFSI)/TEP electrolyte, PTCDI can show a highly stable cycle of 134 mAh g-1 after 100 cycles at 50 mA g-1 with a capacity retention radio of 98% (1.5-3.5 V). At a large current density of 500 mA g-1 (3.65 C), PTCDI also can deliver the capacity of 60 mAh g-1. And the safety of K-metalIIPTCDI PIBs is demonstrated by the fact that the used separator does not produce an open flame after ignition. These results of PTCDI can represent the advanced properties of organic cathode using TEP in PIBs.
A Study on the Temperature Optimization of Mold and Melt Using Design of Experiments for Children's Chair
Authors: Trung Pham Quang
Published: December 2023

The quality of the finished product is affected by a number of factors during the plastic injection molding process. Two crucial process variables in the creation of products are melted and mold temperature. The study uses the Design of Experiments tool in Autodesk Moldflow to look at the impact of melt and mold temperatures on injection molding technology. Analytical items are specifically made of polypropylene (PP) using kids' chair mold. According to simulation analysis results, there is a remarkable effect of the melt temperature on both time at end of packing as well as deflection in the range of the analytical temperature at tmold of [40, 80]°C and tmelt of [180, 220]°C. Melt temperature also shows a notable influence not only on deflection but also on sink mark depth and volumetric shrinkage, along with the criteria to evaluate the expense of a product (time at end of packing, total part weight).
Near-Field Direct Writing of the Photoluminescent Lattice Structures Pattern with RGB Colours Quantum Dots
Authors: Ou Wei Cheng , Fang Jia Xin , Tan Zhao Kang , Zhan Dao Hua , Liu Mao Lin , Wang Han
Published: December 2023

The near-field direct writing technology represents a cutting-edge micro-nano additive manufacturing technique capable of printing intricate lattice structures with high precision. Leveraging the nanoscale self-luminous properties of quantum dots (QDs), a novel RGB QDs ink is developed by integrating QDs with polycaprolactone (PCL), specifically tailored for near-field direct writing applications. Based on the synergistic benefits offered by the aforementioned materials and technology, we present a groundbreaking approach to fabricating lattice structures patterns featuring RGB quantum dots. Firstly, a specialized printing ink is formulated for the production of lattice structures, aiming to achieve precise and intricate patterns. Subsequently, comprehensive investigations are conducted to determine the optimal parameters for the RGB quantum dots ink. Finally, an in-depth analysis is performed to evaluate the deposition process and luminescence properties of the resulting lattice structures pattern. The micron-scale lattice structures, incorporating quantum dots, hold great potential for applications in displacement encoders.
Comparison of the Influence of Carbon Obtained from Kitchen Waste and Synthetic Carbon on the Tensile Properties of Polyolefins
Authors: Pilipović Ana , Kováčik Jaroslav , Beronská Naďa , Opálková Šišková Alena , Dvorák Tomáš , Rujnić Havstad Maja
Published: December 2023

Due to its mechanical, rheological, and chemical properties high-density polyethylene (HDPE) is commonly used as a material for transport of various media. Low thermal conductivity (0.37 W/mK) limits usage of HDPE in the heat exchanger systems. This property can be improved by adding 20% synthetic carbon to the PE matrix which increases the thermal conductivity by 345% compared to the initial value of the thermal conductivity of pure PE. But this filler has an effect on the mechanical properties too, by enhancing or degrading them. Recently attempts have been made to reduce waste in all possible ways so the second direction of obtaining carbon in this paper is from household biological waste. The mentioned wastes contain cellulose, which is the most abundant carbon precursor. The bio-based carbon was prepared from the kitchen waste, especially from the remains of root vegetables like carrots, parsley, and potatoes. Synthetic carbon retains the same tensile strength as pure PE, while in PE with carbon from bio waste, the strength is reduced by 5 MPa, while the tensile modulus of the composite in both cases increases; in the case of carbon from kitchen waste by 25%, and in the case of synthetic carbon by 100%. In addition to PE, tests were also carried out on polypropylene (PP) to see any potential application for these two most common polyolefins.
Performance-Based Analysis of Mesh Smoothing Methods Combining Topology Optimization and Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Afify Mohammed , Moubachir Younes , Hassar Jamila , Guennoun Zouhair
Published: December 2023

Most design-to-manufacturing frameworks combining topology optimization (TO) and additive manufacturing (AM) integrate mesh smoothing methods as post-processing techniques to remove discrete irregularities of optimized topologies. Notably, a design framework is proposed incorporating all the CAD development stages within the design phase providing smooth and ready-to-print topologies. The Laplacian-based smoothing algorithms have demonstrated a high capacity in removing surface noise. This study focuses on investigating the smoothing capacity of both HC Laplacian and Taubin methods using mesh quality metrics to assess on their performance in terms of geometric preservation and volume shrinkage. Taubin method was found to produce high-quality smooth meshes with less volume shrinkage compared to HC Laplacian. The Taubin model exhibited an increase of 15.06% in mesh volume whereas the HC Laplacian model had a volume shrinkage of 28.14%. Additionally, finite element analyses of the three-point bending test using ANSYS is set to measure the flexural stiffness of an optimized MBB beam under both HC Laplacian and Taubin smoothing methods. Overall, the flexural stiffness of Taubin is nearly two times the original model with a surplus of 46.91% whereas HC Laplacian exhibited a flexural stiffness that is less with 72.07% than the original model.
Oral Health-related Quality of Life among Patients on Root Canal Treatment
Authors: Singh Abhinav Kumar
Published: December 2023

Introduction:

Root canal treatment (RCT) patients' oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) is significantly impacted by a variety of variables, including understanding, disposition, discernments, age, heading, personal status, smoking, and preopenness history. This study's use of RCT leaves the sociodemographic limits that affect patients uncertain.

Methodology:

To determine the OHRQoL of patients undergoing RCT, a cross-sectional survey of patients from various dental organizations was conducted. Four OHRQoL classes stood out for the use of a self-directed, authorized poll to collect the data. The data were examined using the SPSS factual bundle for sociology, version 22.0. The P was calculated using a one-way ANOVA and a free t-test.

Results:

Each OHRQoL research topic was measurably critical to at least one aspect of the socioeconomic status of the RCT patients. When given information about the torment/unease topic, the people who received RCT references stated that they underwent no pain or distress at all (65%).

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the OHRQoL score for the RCT participants was relatively excellent.
Salivary Oxidative Stress Assessment in Tobacco Users with and without Potentially Malignant Disorders and Micronuclei Estimation using Fluorescent Microscopy
Authors: Sudha G. , Nataraj Priyadharsini , Krishnan Rajkumar , Rameshkumar Annasamy
Published: December 2023

Background:

Consumption of tobacco in either smoking or nonsmoking form produces free radicals, contributing to an increased risk of oral cancer as a result of oxidative stress. Biochemical changes in antioxidant enzymes are responsible for tobacco-associated oral carcinogenesis. Due to the production of reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress, the promotion of carcinogenesis occurs in the cells. Oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) is an assembly of benign lesions with morphologically altered clinical or histopathological tissue that has a greater than normal risk of transforming into malignant lesions after diagnosis at a later date. Micronuclei are the goal site for early genotoxic events and are involved in carcinogenic events. Micronuclei in exfoliated cells are useful biomarkers in assessing cytogenetic damage. Early detection will help to devise appropriate treatment plans, thereby improving patient survival rates.

Aim and Objectives:

To estimate the salivary superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels and the expression of micronuclei in exfoliated buccal cells of tobacco users before the onset of tobacco-induced oral lesions and correlating the same with patients with OPMDs to determine if this can be useful in predicting early malignant potential in subjects with habitual tobacco usage.

Materials and Methods:

The study included three groups. Group I – Tobacco users with OPMD (n = 50), Group II – Tobacco users without OPMD (n = 50), and Group III – Healthy controls (n = 50). Sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was done for saliva samples for quantification of salivary SOD. Exfoliated buccal cells were smeared and stained with acridine orange stain and viewed under a fluorescent microscope for micronuclei estimation.

Results:

The study showed a significant difference in salivary SOD levels and increased micronuclei expression among tobacco users than healthy controls.

Conclusion:

Our study results revealed a gradual and steady decrease of SOD levels and increased micronuclei expression from healthy control to tobacco users without lesions and tobacco users with lesion, and this can be used as an effective noninvasive early diagnostic biomarker in assessing malignant progression in tobacco users. Furthermore, the evaluation of micronuclei estimation can serve as a simple, quick, and noninvasive chair-side procedure for regular oral cancer screening in patients with tobacco usage.
Altmetric attention analysis of Ayurveda and COVID-19 scholarly publications: A comprehensive review of top 50 high-attention publications
Authors: Singh Shyam B , Mansoria Poornima
Published: December 2023

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has led to an extensive publication of research papers. To assess the visibility and impact of these publications, it is crucial to consider alternative metrics beyond traditional citations. Ayurveda, an ancient Indian holistic system of medicine, has garnered attention as a potentially complementary approach to address various aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study analyzes the top 50 Ayurveda-related publications associated with COVID-19, analyzing their Altmetric Attention Scores (AAS). The publications were sourced from a scholarly research database and examined for publication trends, geographical distribution, organizational affiliations, and research methodologies. The results indicate that the publications were spread across multiple journals and countries, with India contributing the most publications. The research encompassed various topics and methodologies, including clinical trials, molecular docking studies, and narrative reviews. Interestingly, the analysis revealed that publications with high AAS often had relatively low citation counts. This suggests the importance of alternative metrics, such as AAS, in capturing research’s broader attention and impact beyond academia. The study underscores the need to consider these alternative metrics to assess research’s societal and online impact in today’s digital landscape. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the intersection between Ayurveda research and COVID-19, highlighting the attention and engagement generated by these publications on social media platforms and online sources.
Effect of Ayurvedic treatment in intractable palmoplantar psoriasis: A case report
Authors: Meghna Pooleri veetil Padikkal , Sinimol Thekkekkoottummughath Peethambara , Subhose Varanasi
Published: December 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Palmoplantar psoriasis (PPP) is a variant of psoriasis, primarily affecting the palms and soles, and can also affect the quality of life. PPP can be clinically correlated with “Vipadika kushta” in Ayurveda. The case report highlights the importance of Ayurveda in treating skin conditions, especially those diseases that are recalcitrant to conventional therapies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A 67-year-old male with a history of chronic PPP for 2 years presented to Ayurveda out patient department with symptoms of scaly plaques in the plantar aspect of bilateral feet with slight oozing associated with fissuring, thickening, and skin discoloration for 2 years. The patient was treated with Ayurveda interventions. The duration of the treatment was 4.5 months.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS:

The patient was successfully managed using Ayurveda interventions for 4 months. After 4 months, the PASI score reduced to 1.2 from 15. The case report underscores the potential of Ayurveda in the management of chronic and recalcitrant diseases such as PPP. The holistic approach of Ayurveda for a customized treatment regimen yields good results.
Anterior segment optical coherence tomography in a case of intraocular lens opacification
Authors: Sandhya N , Namitha V G
Published: December 2023

Opacification of intraocular lens (IOL) is one of the uncommon causes of delayed decrease in vision postcataract surgery. It occurs more commonly with hydrophilic IOLs and less with hydrophobic IOLs. Here, we present a case of an 81-year-old lady, who came 7 years after an uneventful phacoemulsification with decrease in vision in her left eye (LE). Slit-lamp examination revealed an opacified IOL with a grossly normal posterior segment. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography (ASOCT) revealed a band of hyper reflectance on the anterior and posterior surface of IOL with a clear zone in between. She underwent IOL exchange with consequent vision improvement.
Knowledge attitude and practice regarding “over the counter” prescription of topical eye steroid among the pharmacists/medical shopkeepers
Authors: Singh Monika , Raghuwanshi Sapna , Malviya Karuna , Yadav Nikhila
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

Aim of this study is to assess knowledge, attitude, and practice among the pharmacists/medical shopkeepers regarding “over the counter” prescription of topical eye steroid.

Method:

It is a prospective cross-sectional questionnaire-based observational study, carried out among 60 pharmacists/pharmacy shopkeepers.

Result:

Out of 60 participants, 40% had been sensitized regarding topical steroid misuse. 16% had seen complications following OTC dispensing, and 83% had never seen complications following OTC dispensing of medications. 50% were of the opinion of banning the OTC dispensing of ocular medications, 41.6% were against it, and 8.33% were of no opinion.

Conclusion:

Doctors and pharmacists play a crucial role regarding spreading awareness of self-medication. Government should take proper initiative in educating patients to discourage the unethical and irrational dispensing of medicine by pharmacists.
A study of the ocular pathology of headache in patients presenting to ophthalmic OPD in a tertiary care center
Authors: Faruqui Saba , Harne Akshay , Jain Rahul , Agarwal Rahul
Published: December 2023

Aims:

Headache is a common presenting complaint of ophthalmic patients, but it is also a symptom of a wide range of systemic problems some of which are life threatening while others benign. This study aimed to detect the common ocular causes of headache in patients visiting the eye outpatient department (OPD).

Settings and Design:

This was a cross-sectional, observational study of one year duration conducted in a tertiary care center.

Materials and Methods:

Demographic data and a detailed history was collected from 395 patients complaining of headache and attending the eye OPD, followed by a detailed ocular examination including visual acuity, refraction, intraocular pressure, slit-lamp examination, and fundus.

Statistical Analysis:

The data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 21. Frequencies and percentages were calculated. A P value of <0.05 was considered significant.

Results:

There were 298 females (75.4%) and 97 males (24.5%) with headache. Fifty-six point four percent of the headaches occurred in the 21–40-year age group. Forty-seven percent of headaches were ocular, the most common ocular cause being uncorrected refractive errors (21.3%) followed by computer vision syndrome (19%). Fifty-three percent of headaches had non-ocular pathology, of which 33.5% were primary headaches: overall, the most common type of headache in the study. Red flag signs were noted in 21 cases.

Conclusion:

This study helped to identify and estimate the frequency of ocular and non-ocular causes of headaches. Also, we identified red flag signs which should be looked out for to avoid missing a life-threatening secondary pathology behind the headache.
Visual outcome and complications after sutureless scleral fixation intraocular lens implantation
Authors: Vishwanath HS , Alappat Pearl Maria L. , Dwaraboina Jahnavi , Shashidhar Gaargi , Hikkalagutti Kruthika S.
Published: December 2023

Context:

In case of weak, inadequate, or total absence of posterior capsule following trauma or surgical complication, a sutureless scleral fixation (SFIOL) technique has been studied to secure good vision with minimal postoperative complications. It remains as a good alternative against anterior chamber intraocular lens (ACIOL), iris claw lens, and sutured scleral fixated intraocular lens.

Aims:

Visual outcomes after SFIOL implantation. Complications of SFIOL implantation.

Settings and Design:

A retrospective hospital-based study.

Methods and Material:

The study was undertaken depending on the data available of the patients who were diagnosed to have postoperative or post-traumatic aphakia and underwent pars plana vitrectomy ± lens explantation ± phacofragmentation with SFIOL implantation from the month of May 2021 to October 2021 and came for regular follow-up for 6 months. The study included patients with total absence of capsular bag or history of eye trauma or complicated cataract surgery causing aphakia. Patients with retinal detachment were excluded from the study. Indication for surgery, best corrected visual acuity, and other complications were studied.

Results:

Of 25 eyes of 25 patients who completed 6 months of follow-up, 16 (64%) were men and 9 (36%) were women. Mean visual outcome preoperatively and postoperatively were 1.56 ± 0.7 logMAR and 0.46 ± 0.1 logMAR units, respectively. Mild vitreous hemorrhage was found in 8 eyes (32%) which was the most common postoperative complication noted followed by postoperative hypotony in 6 eyes (24%). Transient rise in intraocular pressure, corneal edema, and choroidal detachment were other complications seen postoperatively.

Conclusions:

A technique of sutureless SFIOL implantation was found to be a cost-effective method of providing a good visual outcome without serious postoperative complications in eyes with aphakia following post-trauma or surgical complications.
Design, testing, and installation of a shrouded aerosol sampling probe at demonstration fast reactor fuel reprocessing plant
Authors: Ajoy K. C. , Annappan Dhanasekaran , Sangeetha D. N. , Paramasivan K. , Murugesan C. , Ramanan P. Devesh , Elaiyaraja G. , Santhanam R.
Published: December 2023

A shrouded air sampling probe was designed and fabricated to meet the effluent monitoring requirements of an upcoming reprocessing facility at IGCAR. Performance evaluation of the probe was carried out using standard polydisperse aerosols up to 2 μm at the high-efficiency particulate air filter test facility. Its performance was also verified for higher size particles till 10 μm using the “Deposition 2001a” code. Based on the results, the shrouded probe was found to qualify the air sampling requirements and the same was fixed at the sampling point in the exhaust duct. This paper describes the details of design, testing, and installation of the shrouded probe.
Sequential separation of actinides and strontium in urine samples using TRU and Sr-spec resin in tandem
Authors: Dubla Rupali , Kumar Ranjeet , Yadav J. R. , Sawant Pramilla D.
Published: December 2023

This paper describes the sequential separation of actinides such as U, Pu, Am, and Sr in urine samples. Urine bioassay is one of the preferred methods for assessing low level of internal contamination in radiation workers. Any special monitoring case necessitates the completion of sample analysis as soon as possible. Hence, in this work, efforts have been made to reduce the overall analysis time for the estimation of actinides and strontium in urine samples. In the described method, TRU and Sr-spec resins are used in tandem for the separation of actinides and strontium. The proposed method is very convenient to handle, rapid, and robust when compared with ion exchange and other extraction chromatography work. Radiochemical recoveries of 232U, 242Pu, 243Am, and 90Sr obtained are in the range of 66%–89%, 63%–99%, 63%–96%, and 61%–79% with an average and standard deviation of 77.2% ±7.2, 79.8% ±11.4, 80.9% ±11.2, and 71.8% ±5.9, respectively.
Directed Motivational Currents in English L2 Learning
Authors: Kuftić Nina , Martinović Anna
Published: December 2023

Directed Motivational Currents (DMCs) can be described as intense surges in motivation which can carry second language (L2) learners towards achieving their L2 related goals. DMCs are triggered by powerful stimuli which can be diverse in nature, and they depend on various conditions. DMCs are characterized by several key features, including goal-orientedness, a salient facilitative structure, and positive emotionality. Individuals experiencing DMCs are highly focused on a clearly defined goal accompanied by a vision of an idealized future self that has reached the goal. This vision is supported by a new set of automatized behavioural routines, subgoals, and affirmative feedback. Furthermore, individuals experience positive emotions while engaged in pursuit of their L2 goal, regardless of the type of activity or task in question. The aim of this study was to describe DMCs among English L2 university students based on an analysis of interview data. The findings indicated that Croatian university students displayed the key features of DMCs, which were launched due to various triggering stimuli, the most common of which were intrapersonal reasons. L2 goals were mainly related to a future career in the teaching profession, while visions of their ideal L2 self were tied to becoming proficient English language speakers, but also to personal development. Most students used automatized behavioural routines which aided in attaining their goals. The results also suggested that negative feedback did not have a detrimental effect on students’ motivation. Moreover, students’ DMCs were associated with positive emotionality, through the satisfaction gained by goal attainment which reciprocally affected their self-confidence.
Methodological Aspects of Teaching German as a Pluricentric Language
Authors: Karpik Mykola , Pavlychko Oksana
Published: December 2023

This scientific article explores the methodological aspects of teaching German as a pluricentric language, with a specific focus on the role of the Austrian national variant. Pluricentrism theory suggests that the German language is characterized by equal national variants present in German-speaking countries. Researching these national variants is crucial, as it combines linguistics with ethnolinguistics and cultural studies, providing a deeper understanding of language phenomena through an anthropocentric lens. One important aspect of studying a national language and its variants is examining the national worldview and functioning of ethnically marked vocabulary. While textbooks and manuals for teaching German as a foreign language often overlook the norms and standards of Austrian German, the existing differences between national varieties encompass all linguistic levels.
Several researchers have contributed to the study of German language variability, particularly the Austrian variant. They have examined grammatical, pragmatic, and phonological peculiarities, as well as the language’s functions in various styles and contexts. However, certain issues remain unresolved, such as linguistic processes in the Austrian German vocabulary, the functional capacity of Austriacisms (Austrian-specific terms) compared to Standard High German counterparts, and the impact of Austrian language policy and media on linguistic processes.
The study employs a methodology that involves analysing Austriacisms found in dictionaries and verifying their usage in Austrian newspapers. The researchers explore the lexical and semantic aspects of Austriacisms, categorizing them into three groups: Austrian realia, semantic Austriacisms with different meanings in Austria, and lexical Austriacisms used in Austria instead of German counterparts. The article presents the results of this analysis, highlighting thematic groups such as gastronomy and management/administration, which are prominent in the Austrian variant.
Understanding the methodological aspects of teaching German as a pluricentric language, specifically considering the Austrian national variant, is essential for language educators. By acknowledging and incorporating the linguistic peculiarities of Austrian German into language teaching materials, educators can provide a more comprehensive and accurate representation of the language, facilitating effective language learning and intercultural competence development.
El uso de las tecnologías de la información y la comunicación en la enseñanza de ELE en Croacia
Authors: Blažević Ana Gabrijela , Jelić Andrea-Beata
Published: December 2023

Hoy en día, la competencia digital es indudablemente reconocida como una de las competencias docentes clave. Esto se debe a la fuerte influencia de la tecnología en todas las esferas de la vida, y por ende en la educación, así como al hecho de que los jóvenes de hoy, al ser nativos digitales, tienen ciertas expectativas y actitudes hacia el uso de las TIC en la enseñanza, incluida la enseñanza de lenguas extranjeras.
En esta investigación se examinan las actitudes de los docentes y alumnos croatas de secundaria sobre el uso de las TIC en la enseñanza de español como lengua extranjera (ELE), el uso de diversas herramientas TIC en la enseñanza de español, así como las actitudes de los docentes y alumnos sobre la enseñanza en un entorno digital y su perspectiva a futuro. Los resultados indican que tanto los docentes como los alumnos afirman tener bastante desarrollada su competencia digital y tienen una actitud relativamente positiva hacia el uso de las TIC en la enseñanza. Su uso en las clases de ELE está bastante generalizado y es frecuente gracias a que el contexto educacional croata, en términos generales, brinda los elementos necesarios para su implementación. Sin embargo, el uso actual de las TIC se limita a ciertas áreas y herramientas, por lo cual sigue habiendo margen de mejora. A su vez, se ha constatado que el uso de las TIC como herramientas didácticas complementarias tienen un buen futuro dado el entusiasmo de los docentes y el interés de los alumnos, por lo cual es preciso seguir desarrollando la competencia digital de los docentes.
Las recomendaciones para una mejor y más efectiva integración de las TIC en la enseñanza de ELE en Croacia se centran en la eliminación de diversos obstáculos técnicos dentro de las instituciones educativas y en la necesidad de que los docentes accedan dentro de su educación permanente a educaciones específicas sobre el tema.
Warum Deutsch bellt und Französisch schnurrt. Eine klangvolle Reise durch die Sprachen Europas
Authors: Horjak Luka
Published: December 2023

Im Laufe der Bildung steht jeder Mensch früher oder später vor einer ziemlich wichtigen Entscheidung, welche Sprache(n) zu lernen bzw. zu studieren. Möchte man aus Wirtschaftsgründen lieber das hart klingende Deutsch erlernen oder überwiegen die Melodien der romanischen Sprachen? François Conrad, wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiter am Lehrstuhl für Germanistische Linguistik an der Leibniz Universität Hannover, hilft uns nicht bei dieser schweren und zugleich lebenswichtigen Entscheidung. Der Sprachwissenschaftler bemüht sich klar, unterhaltsam und vor allem auch linguistisch zu erklären, warum die Ausspracheunterschiede zwischen den Sprachen so groß sind. Dies wird auch durch den Titel seines Werkes suggeriert: Warum Deutsch bellt und Französisch schnurrt: Eine klangvolle Reise durch die Sprachen Europas.
Sur l’expression de la modalité épistémique au moyen des formes verbales en français et en italien et les constructions équivalentes en serbe
Authors: Seder Ružica
Published: December 2023

Dans le présent travail nous partons des emplois épistémiques des futurs (simple et antérieur) en français et en italien afin de déterminer le degré de correspondance de leur emploi dans les langues respectives, et, dans une deuxième étape du travail, de déterminer leurs équivalents dans la langue serbe. L’examen des considérations théoriques concernant ces deux formes rend évident que dans les deux langues la construction avec le verbe devoir (it.dovere) est souvent concurrente aux formes étudiées. De ce fait, l’étude de cette construction s’est imposée comme partie nécessaire du présent travail.
En s’appuyant sur l’analyse contrastive, nous analysons les exemples extraits d’un corpus composé de romans français et leurs traductions en italien, de romans italiens et leurs traductions en français, et de traductions serbes de toutes les œuvres concernées.
L’analyse des exemples du corpus a relevé les faits suivants :
Le futur épistémique du français a une distribution différente de celle du futur épistémique de l’italien, l’emploi du futur simple épistémique français ayant disparu dans la langue contemporaine (et étant remplacé par le devoir épistémique) et le futur antérieur épistémique français étant considérablement moins fréquent que le futur antérieur épistémique italien.
En italien, les deux formes du futur épistémique restent toujours assez répandues.
En serbe, les temps du futur n’ayant pas la capacité d’exprimer la modalité épistémique, c’est la construction mora da suivie du verbe principal conjugué (au temps sur lequel porte la supposition) qui s’est imposée comme marqueur épistémique le plus fréquent, et compatible avec tous les degrés de l’échelle modale épistémique.
La métaphore terminologique filée en français et son rôle dans les textes de vulgarisation scientifique
Authors: Holeš Jan , Honová Zuzana
Published: December 2023

Metaphor consists of the transfer of meaning based on resemblance, and as such it has long been widely explored in literary style. However, metaphor is also one of the sources of polysemy and one of the powerful terminogenic processes, which consists of naming a concept on the basis of the resemblance with another concept already existing in day-to-day language or within the framework of the terminology of a special field. This article focuses on extended metaphor, i.e. metaphor consisting of a sequence of metaphors from the same semantic field, as used in popular science texts. The authors studied metaphors based on military terminology, in a corpus of texts available on the site of Pour la science, a French popular science magazine presenting scientific and technological news intended for general readership. Most of the military terms identified in popular science texts come from common military vocabulary, some designate military formations, tactics, positions, types of weapons, and functions. In most cases these are terms made up of a single unit, and short terminological syntagms. The terms are mainly nouns, with verbs, adjectives, and participles occurring to a lesser extent. In popular science texts the terms lose their strictly terminological meaning, and the metaphor fulfils the explanatory (or didactic) function, elucidating abstract concepts and making the texts more attractive to the reader. The target domains in which semantic features of the source domain – namely military terminology – are the most often transposed include biology, medicine, virology, bacteriology, microbiology, ethology, and neuroscience.
Jutuber, Jutjuber or Yutjuber
Authors: Pavlinušić Vilus Eva , Jelčić Čolakovac Jasmina , Bogunović Irena , Ćoso Bojana
Published: December 2023

New concepts are constantly being borrowed across languages. The influence of one language on another can occur on all linguistic levels, with lexis being the most sensitive. Croatian has become most receptive to borrowing from English, and the influence of English on Croatian has been documented in different functional styles. The prestigious status of English, which reduces the likelihood that a borrowed element will adapt to the rules of the recipient language, is one of the reasons why English has become an inexhaustible source of new words for Croatian learners. The aim of the present study is to investigate the use of adapted forms of English loanwords in Croatian, with particular attention to the type and degree of their adaptation. Due to the differences between the phonemic systems of the two languages, it was expected that the Croatian learners would show diversity in their responses regarding loanword adaptation. A translation task with the 392 most frequently used unadapted English loanwords in Croatian was given to 116 undergraduate students at the Faculty of Maritime Studies. The data showed that the participants preferred the unadapted forms to the adapted forms of English. They were also more inclined to orthographically adapt a loanword, than to adapt it both orthographically and morphologically. The differences observed in orthographic adaptation reflect the underlying differences in the phonemic systems of the two languages. Overall, the results suggest that the unadapted forms of English words have become established in Croatian and are a preferred lexical choice among younger L1 speakers of Croatian.