bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Internet Addiction on Adolescents Mental Health: A Meta‑analytic Review
Authors: Soriano-Molina Elena , Limiñana-Gras Rosa M. , Patró-Hernández Rosa María , Rubio-Aparicio María
Published: November 2024

Background: This study examines the impact of problematic internet use, or internet addiction, on adolescent mental health, focusing on key psychological variables, assessing the strength of these associations, and identifying potential moderating factors. Methods: A search of the Web of Science databases over the past five years identified 830 articles. Of these, 33 met the inclusion criteria, involving 303,243 participants (average age 14.57; 49.44% female). The selection process was verified by two researchers. Results: Nine psychological variables were analysed: depression, anxiety, stress, suicidal behaviour, psychological well-being, self-esteem, externalising problems, aggressiveness, and impulsiveness. Internet addiction showed positive correlations with aggressiveness (r+ = 0.391), depression (r+ = 0.318), anxiety (r+ = 0.252), and suicidal behaviour (r+ = 0.264). Negative correlations were observed with psychological well-being (r+ = -0.312) and self-esteem (r+ = -0.306). No significant associations were found for externalising problems, impulsiveness, or stress. None of the moderators showed a significant correlation with internet addiction and depression. Conclusions: Although limited by small sample sizes for some variables and the cross-sectional design of most studies, the findings confirm that internet addiction negatively affects adolescents' mental health, being linked to poorer self-perceived health, greater psychological distress, and increased aggression.
Spinal Specific Lexicon for Sentiment Analysis of Adult Spinal Deformity Patient Interviews Correlate with SRS22, SF36, and Odi Scores: A Pilot Study of 25 Patients
Authors: Gore Ross , Safaee Michael M. , Lynch Christopher J. , Ames Christopher P.
Published: November 2024

Classic health-related quality of life (HRQOL) metrics are cumbersome, time-intensive, and subject to biases based on the subject’s native language, educational level, and cultural values. Natural language processing (NLP) converts text into quantitative metrics. Sentiment analysis enables subject matter experts to construct domain-specific lexicons that assign a value of either negative (-1) or positive (1) to certain words. The growth of telehealth provides opportunities to apply sentiment analysis to transcripts of adult spinal deformity patient visits to derive a novel and less biased HRQOL metric. In this study, we demonstrate the feasibility of constructing a spine-specific lexicon for sentiment analysis to derive an HRQOL metric for adult spinal deformity patients from their preoperative telehealth visit transcripts. We asked each of twenty-five (25) adult patients seven open-ended questions about their spinal conditions, treatment, and quality of life during telehealth visits. We analyzed the Pearson correlation between our sentiment analysis HRQOL metric and established HRQOL metrics (Scoliosis Research Society-22 questionnaire [SRS-22], 36-Item Short Form Health Survey [SF-36], and Oswestry Disability Index [ODI]). The results show statistically significant correlations (0.43–0.74) between our sentiment analysis metric and the conventional metrics. This provides evidence that applying NLP techniques to patient transcripts can yield effective HRQOL metrics.
Promyelocytic Leukemia Protein (PML) Regulates Stem Cell Pluripotency Through Novel Sumoylation Targets
Authors: Spanou Syrago , Makatounakis Takis , Filippopoulou Chrysa , Dougalis Georgios , Stamatakis George , Nikolaou Christoforos , Samiotaki Martina , Chachami Georgia , Papamatheakis Joseph , Kretsovali Androniki
Published: November 2024

The Promyelocytic Leukemia protein (PML) and its associated nuclear bodies have recently emerged as critical regulators of embryonic stem (ES) cell identity. Despite their recognized importance, the complete spectrum of PML-mediated molecular events in ES cells remains unclear. In this report we have studied how PML is shaping the proteomic and SUMO proteomic landscape in ES cells. Proteomic profiling of PML-depleted ES cells uncovered a downregulation of self-renewal factors and an upregulation of proteins associated with translation and proteasomal activity, reflecting a cellular transition from pluripotency to differentiation. Importantly, PML promotes the sumoylation of pluripotency-related factors, chromatin organizers and cell cycle regulators. We identify SALL1 and CDCA8 as novel PML-directed sumoylation targets, both critical for ES cell maintenance. SALL1 sumoylation increases the activation of the Wnt pathway, contributing to its ability to inhibit ES cell differentiation. Similarly, CDCA8 sumoylation enhances its capacity to promote cell proliferation. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that PML regulates ES cell identity by modulating the abundance or sumoylation of key regulators involved in pluripotency and cell cycle progression.
Uncovering the Diagnostic Power of Radiomic Feature Significance in Automated Lung Cancer Detection: An Integrative Analysis of Texture, Shape, and Intensity Contributions
Authors: Raptis Sotiris , Ilioudis Christos , Theodorou Kiki
Published: November 2024

Background: Lung cancer still maintains the leading position among causes of death in the world; the process of early detection surely contributes to changes in the survival of patients. Standard diagnostic methods are grossly insensitive, especially in early stages. In this paper, radiomic features are discussed that can assure improved diagnostic accuracy through automated lung cancer detection by considering the important feature categories, such as texture, shape, and intensity, originating from the CT DICOM images. Methods: We developed and compared the performance of two machine learning models-DenseNet-201 CNN and XGBoost-trained on radiomic features with the ability to identify malignant tumors from benign ones. Feature importance was analyzed using SHAP and techniques of Permutation Importance that enhance both Global and Case-Specific interpretability of the models. Results: Few features that reflect tumor heterogeneity and morphology include GLCM Entropy, Shape Compactness, and Surface Area to Volume Ratio. These performed excellently in diagnosis, with DenseNet-201 producing an accuracy of 92.4% and XGBoost at 89.7%. The analysis of feature interpretability ascertains its potential in early detection and boosting diagnostic confidence. Conclusions: The current work identifies the most important radiomic features and quantifies their diagnostic significance through a properly conducted feature selection process reflecting stability analysis. This provides the blueprint for feature-driven model interpretability in clinical applications. Radiomics features have great value in the automated diagnosis of lung cancer, especially when combined with machine learning models. This might improve early detection and open personalized diagnostic strategies for precision oncology.
Planning and Economic Feasibility of Advanced Technology Microtransit First/Last Mile Service under Uncertainty
Authors: Khan Ata M.
Published: November 2024

Electric connected automated vehicle (CAV) shuttles as a part of sustainable microtransit system have the potential to fill public transit service gaps. Following technology and traveler acceptance tests that are underway around the world, mass produced CAVs will be considered for shared mobility service, including “first/last mile” travel between public transit hub stations and medical campuses or other activity centers. There is a need for knowledge on treating risk in such applications. This paper covers planning and economic feasibility of advanced technology level 4 automated vehicle-based microtransit system considering uncertain service and economic feasibility factors. Methods are advanced for addressing uncertainties in travel demand, service factors, and economic feasibility of investments by public and private sector entities. Specifically, a probability-based macro simulation approach is used to treat demand and supply-side service factors as stochastic and is adapted for risk analysis in financial decision making. The effects of uncertain life cycle costs on fares and rate of return are described. Results are favorable regarding the technical and economic feasibility of advanced technology-based microtransit first/last mile service. The findings reported here are a contribution to knowledge on feasibility of implementing CAV-based first/last mile and other microtransit services under uncertainty.
Does Cryopreservation Negatively Affect Semen Parameters?Does Cryopreservation Negatively Affect Semen Parameters?
Authors: Milewska Anna Justyna , Kuczyńska Agnieszka , Pawłowski Michał , Martynowicz Iwo , Deluga-Białowarczuk Sebastian , Sieczyński Piotr , Kuczyński Waldemar , Milewski Robert
Published: November 2024

Male infertility is a significant global health issue, comprising approx. 50% of all infertility cases. Semen cryopreservation, a critical component of assisted reproductive technologies (ART), is a method commonly used in a wide range of situations, including gonadotoxic treatments such as radiation or chemotherapy, hazardous occupational exposures, or various medical conditions. Although historically viewed as potentially damaging to sperm, recent findings suggest that cryopreservation, when performed with appropriate techniques, may in fact enhance semen quality by improving the proportion of healthy spermatozoa, particularly in terms of their morphological parameters. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of cryopreservation on sperm morphology and viability, utilizing advanced morphological assessments pre- and post-freezing. Semen samples from 97 patients were analyzed, revealing significant improvements in morphology, with increased percentages of normal sperm and reductions in deformation indices post-thaw. The findings indicate that optimized cryopreservation protocols may support the selection of higher-quality sperm, offering valuable benefits for ART applications. These results challenge certain past assumptions regarding the impact of cryopreservation and underscore the need for refined freezing techniques to maintain and potentially enhance semen quality for reproductive use.
Childhood Organophosphate Pesticide Poisoning: A Case Report
Authors: Tola Gudisa
Published: November 2024

Background: In both developed and developing nations, childhood poisoning is a significant source of morbidity. The majority of poisoning incidents involving teenagers happen accidentally and are brought on by liquid intake. Case Presentation: A 6-year-old school-aged child with possible organophosphate pesticide poisoning was sent to the emergency department. At the time of his arrival at the emergency department, the patient's mental condition had already been injured. He had a moderate traumatic brain injury when he entered the emergency room and scored an 9/15 on the Glasgow Coma Scale. His medical examination upon arrival revealed lacrimation, hypersalivation, a dry mouth, and pinpoint pupils. Atropine (0.05 mg/kg) was administered intravenously to him once in the emergency room. In pediatric critical care unit, he received continuous infusions of pralidoxime at a rate of 10 mg/kg/hour for 16 hours after receiving an intravenous infusion of atropine at a rate of 1 mg/kg/hour for the first 4 hours, followed by 2 further atropine infusions at a rate of 1 mg/kg/hour for the next 4 hours. Conclusion: Globally, childhood poisoning is a major cause of hospitalization, disability, and death. Ingesting organophosphates can lead to poisoning in children.
Permafrost Degradation and Vegetation Growth beyond the Polar Circle in Siberia
Authors: Kharuk Viacheslav I. , Im Sergei T. , Petrov Ilya A. , Shvetsov Evgeny G.
Published: November 2024

Permafrost thawing is potentially a crucial but poorly investigated factor that influences vegetation dynamics in the Arctic. We studied permafrost thaw rate beyond the Polar Circle in Siberia and analyzed its influence on the larch (Larix spp.) growth and the Arctic vegetation (sparse larch forests, tundra, and forest-tundra communities) productivity (NPP and GPP). We checked the hypothesis: (1) satellite gravimetry is valid for permafrost melt analysis; (2) melt water runoff stimulated trees’ growth and vegetation NPP. We used dendrochronology, field studies, and satellite (GRACE, Terra/MODIS) data. We found a stable decreasing trend (r2 = 0.67) of the water content in the permafrost soils in the Siberian Arctic. Melt water runoff is about 7.7 ± 4.4 kg/m2/yr (with maximal values 9.7 ± 2.9 in West and Mid Siberian Arctic sectors and negative ones (-2.9 ± 3.2) in the Chukotka Peninsula sector). Permafrost meld led to an increase in vegetation productivity. We found that larch radial growth index (GI) and vegetation NPP correlated with melt water runoff (r = –0.7 and r = 0.55, respectively). The VPD (vapor pressure deficit), air and soil temperatures increase stimulated larch growth and vegetation NPP (r = 0.7…0.9 and r = 0.6, respectively). With warming, permafrost degradation leads to improving hydrothermal conditions for trees and vegetation growth and by that contributes to the preservation of the Arctic as a carbon sink territory despite the burning rate increase.
A Smart Contract-Based Algorithm for Offline UAV Task Collaboration: A New Solution for Managing Communication Interruptions
Authors: Zhang Linchao , Hang Lei , Zu Keke , Wang Yi
Published: November 2024

Environmental factors and electronic interference often disrupt communication between UAV swarms and ground control centers, requiring UAVs to complete missions autonomously in offline conditions. However, current coordination schemes for UAV swarms heavily depend on ground control, lacking robust mechanisms for offline task allocation and coordination, which compromises efficiency and security in disconnected settings. This limitation is especially critical for complex missions, such as rescue or attack operations, underscoring the need for a solution that ensures both mission continuity and communication security. To address these challenges, this paper proposes an offline task coordination algorithm based on blockchain smart contracts. This algorithm integrates task allocation, resource scheduling, and coordination strategies directly into smart contracts, allowing UAV swarms to autonomously make decisions and coordinate tasks while offline. Experimental simulations confirm that the proposed algorithm effectively coordinates tasks and maintains communication security in offline states, significantly enhancing the swarm’s autonomous performance in complex, dynamic scenarios.
Toward the Systemic Replacement of Mitochondrial DNA with Somatic Mutations
Authors: Renteln Michael
Published: November 2024

The accumulation of lipofuscin, i.e., indigestible intracellular debris, might be the main cause of age-related diseases that we see today. However, without being able to replace mutated mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and damaged and mutated nuclear DNA (nDNA), we will still eventually succumb to aging. Thus, we must save copies of mitochondrial and nuclear DNA at as young an age as possible, or at least from cell types with the lowest rates of mutation. MtDNA has a 10-100x higher rate of mutation than nDNA, as mitochondria are sites of free radical production. We may need to replace mtDNA before damaged and mutated nDNA. If so, we will need a strategy to deliver pristine mtDNA to cells around the the body and destroy the old mtDNA. A strategy for doing so is described herein.
Sosialisasi Kebun Dapur Keluarga untuk Peningkatan Ketahanan Pangan Keluarga di Desa Jerowaru Lombok Timur
Authors: Nashruddin Muhammad , Anwar Muhammad , Prasetyowati Rini Endang , Iskandar Muhammad Joni
Published: November 2024

Indonesia faces the problem of food insecurity. The complexity of food insecurity that leads to a food security crisis can be simplified by focusing on three different but interrelated dimensions, namely access to food, household access to food, and individual food use. Mitigating food insecurity through the family kitchen garden program can be carried out with a community involvement approach, especially women, by utilizing home gardens, to provide access to food and vegetables for community members. The implementation method uses Participatory Rural Appraisal, with target partners namely groups of women farmers. The implementation stages consist of planning, preparation, implementation and evaluation. All stages of service activities can be carried out thoroughly and all components work optimally. The average percentage of indicator achievement is 92.5%. Of the four indicators, the level of participant participation occupies the highest percentage, during the activity the attendance and activeness of service participants is maximum.
 
Abstrak
Indonesia menghadapi masalah kerawanan pangan. Kompleksitas kerawanan pangan yang berujung pada krisis ketahanan pangan dapat disederhanakan dengan berfokus pada tiga dimensi yang berbeda namun saling terkait, yaitu akses terhadap pangan, akses rumah tangga terhadap pangan, dan penggunaan pangan individu. Mitigasi kerawanan pangan melalui program kebun dapur keluarga dapat dilakukan dengan pendekatan pelibatan masyarakat khususnya kaum perempuan dengan pemanfaatan pekarangan rumah, guna akses kesediaan pangan dan sayuran warga masyarakat. Metode pelaksanaan menggunakan Participatory Rural Appraisal, dengan mitra sasaran yaitu kelompok wanita tani. Tahapan pelaksanaan terdiri dari perencanaan, persiapan, implementasi, dan evaluasi. Semua tahapan kegiatan pengabdian dapat dilaksanakan secara menyeluruh dan semua komponen berkerja dengan maksimal. Rata-rata persentase capaian indikator sebesar 92,5%. Dari ke empat indikator tersebut tingkat partisipasi perserta menempati persentase tertinggi, selama kegiatan berlangsung kehadiran dan keaktifan peserta pengabdian maksimal.
Распространение вариантов вируса SARS-COV-2, вызывающих интерес (VOI) и находящихся под наблюдением (VUM), на основе количества их геномов, депонированных в базу данных GISAID за неделю с 16 по 22 ноября 2024 г.
Authors: Дмитриева Людмила , Чумачкова Елена , Краснов Ярослав , Осина Наталья , Зимирова Анастасия , Иванова Александра , Карнаухов Игорь , Караваева Татьяна , Щербакова Светлана , Кутырев Владимир
Published: November 2024

В обзоре представлена информация по циркулирующим в настоящее время вариантам вируса SARS-COV-2 Omicron вызывающих интерес (VOI) и находящихся под наблюдением (VUM), геномные последовательности которых размещены в международной базе данных GISAID за неделю с 16 по 22 ноября 2024 г.
Gadolinium-Enhanced 3-Dimensional MRI for Diagnosis and Surgical Planning of Posterior Epidural Migration of Lumbar Disc Fragment
Authors: Koike Yoshinao , Kajino Tomomichi , Dobashi Shinya , Iwasaki Norimasa
Published: November 2024

Case:

A 34-year-old man presented at our hospital with knee collapse. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed posterior compression of the dural sac by a lumbar epidural lesion; however, a diagnosis could not be reached. Gadolinium (Gd)-enhanced 3-dimensional MRI (3D-MRI) clearly delineated the morphology, enabling us to make a preoperative diagnosis of posterior epidural migration of the lumbar disc fragment (PEMLDF). Furthermore, detailed location information enabled surgical removal of the lesion in a minimally invasive manner.

Conclusions:

PEMLDF is rare and often difficult to diagnose. Gd-enhanced 3D-MRI provides useful information for the diagnosis and surgical planning for PEMLDF.
Intradural Disk Herniation at the Conus Medullaris
Authors: Kelly Michael J. , Burkhard Marco D. , Altorfer Franziska C.S. , Emerson Ronald G. , Sama Andrew A.
Published: November 2024

Case:

A 73-year old man who underwent previous L2-S1 decompression presenting with new right radicular leg pain. Imaging suggests a large central disk herniation at L1-2 with possible intrathecal extension requiring surgical decompression. When positioned prone on a Jackson frame, neuromonitoring motor signals became diminished, and thus, the case was aborted. On returning to the operating room 2 days later, careful positioning in a more neutral/flexed position facilitated normal neuromonitoring signals, allowing for an uneventful intradural approach and discectomy.

Conclusion:

With conus-level intrathecal disk herniation, consider using prepositional neuromonitoring and avoid hyperextension with positioning to ensure neurological safety.
Permanently polluted paradise? Gender inequality, care work, and community acts to waste problems in West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
Authors: Pakasi Diana Teresa , Purnamasari Marini
Published: November 2024

This article addresses the complex challenges of waste management on small islands in Indonesia, focusing on the impact of tourism and community response, particularly from a feminist political ecology (FPE) perspective. It argues that the current neoliberal and technocratic approaches to waste management are insufficient and often perpetuate gender inequalities. It calls for more inclusive and equitable waste management policies that recognize the contributions of all community members, particularly women. The research underscores the need for a gender equitable approach to environmental governance to achieve sustainable waste management and environmental justice. The research employed focused ethnography in North Lombok Regency, involving indepth interviews and focus group discussions. Our research found that while government efforts primarily focus on maintaining cleanliness for tourism, these initiatives often neglect inequalities in waste management strategies. Women play a crucial role in these grassroots initiatives, performing unpaid care work to manage waste, but face significant health risks and receive little recognition or support. The study recommends a shift from a tourismcentric approach to a community-centered model that invests in sustainable, long-term solutions prioritizing local needs, environmental health, and the empowerment of women, addressing environmental justice issues linked to tourism and waste accumulation.
Lateralidad anatómica y su relación con la sobrevida global en pacientes atendidos en el Hospital Nacional Arzobispo Loayza en el periodo 2017- 2023
Authors:   , Hinojosa Florez Liesbeth Gabriela
Published: November 2024

Introducción: La incidencia de cáncer de colon ha aumentado siendo una patología de gran impacto nacional y mundial. El cáncer de colon derecho e izquierdo se establecen como entidades diferentes desde la presentación clínica, abordaje terapéutico y sobrevida global. En nuestro país aún no se conocen datos, lo que motiva la realización del presente estudio. Objetivo: Determinar la lateralidad anatómica y su relación con la sobrevida global en pacientes con cáncer de colon atendidos en el Hospital Arzobispo Loayza en el periodo 2017- 2023. Material y métodos: Se efectuará un estudio de cohorte retrospectiva, observacional, analítico y longitudinal. La población comprende historias clínicas de pacientes con cáncer de colon. Se incluirán a mayores de 18 años con informe de colonoscopia y/o tomografía abdominal y resultado de anatomía patológica con diagnóstico de cáncer de colon, quienes fallezcan en un periodo mayor a 3 meses desde el diagnóstico. Se excluirán aquellos con datos incompletos o con tumores sincrónicos o dobles primarios. La variable de interés será la sobrevida global del cáncer de colon. La recolección de datos se basará en el registro de pacientes con cáncer de colon del servicio de Oncología. El procesamiento será con SPSS para Windows V23. Se calcularán distribuciones de frecuencias, medidas de tendencia central y dispersión, estimador de Kaplan Meier para la supervivencia global y, si se cumple el supuesto de proporcionalidad de Hazard, se realizará un análisis de Regresión de Cox. La limitación principal es la ausencia de datos completos y que no se podrá extrapolar.
Hallazgos tomográficos como predictores de reincorporación laboral post COVID leve a moderado de los trabajadores de una empresa de fundición de metales no ferrosos
Authors:   , Urtecho Jimenez Samuel Elias , Perales Alanoca Oscar David
Published: November 2024

Antecedentes: El COVID-19, en la mayoría de los casos leves a moderados, se presenta con compromiso pulmonar variable en la tomografía computarizada. Sin embargo, este grupo ha sido menos estudiado que los casos severos, especialmente en lo referido a las repercusiones ocupacionales. El objetivo del presente estudio es establecer la relación de los hallazgos tomográficos con el tiempo que toma la reincorporación laboral post COVID-19 leve a moderado en los trabajadores de una empresa de fundición de metales no ferrosos. Materiales y métodos: Estudio de enfoque cuantitativo, analítico, no experimental, correlacional. Se evaluaron las fichas clínicas de 51 trabajadores de la empresa, afectados por COVID-19 leve a moderado entre mayo y setiembre 2020.
Se considera el tiempo de reincorporación hasta un (01) día antes de trabajar en la modalidad presencial, independiente de la alta médica en el centro asistencial. Se realiza el diagnostico de COVID-19 según cuadro clínico compatible, prueba de anticuerpos y/o prueba molecular positiva y/o tomografía compatible. Resultados: Los resultados del estudio revelaron una correlación significativa entre el grado de compromiso pulmonar detectado en la tomografía computarizada y el tiempo de reincorporación laboral. Se observó que a medida que aumentaba el compromiso pulmonar por tomografía, se prolongaba el tiempo necesario para la reincorporación laboral. Además, se encontró que los hallazgos tomográficos, que mostraron un compromiso del 20% al 45%, no estuvieron correlacionados con el número de signos o síntomas. Sin embargo, sí se estableció una correlación entre estos hallazgos y un tiempo medio de reincorporación laboral de 38 días, en comparación con los trabajadores que no presentaron compromiso pulmonar por tomografía, los cuales tuvieron una ausencia promedio de 20 días. Conclusiones: Los resultados indican que el mayor compromiso pulmonar detectado en la tomografía computarizada puede asociarse con un mayor tiempo de ausencia laboral...
Molecular mechanism of culinary herb Artemisia argyi in promoting lifespan and stress tolerance
Authors: Wang Jinsong , Cui Hailin , Xu Yan , Shang Shuyou , Miao Yuanxin , Li Rong , Xu Zhimin
Published: November 2024

Artemisia argyi Lévl. et Vant. (A. argyi) leaf possesses various health promoting functions contributed by its main bioactive flavonoids.In this study, the anti-aging effect and mechanism of Artemisia argyi leaf extract (AALE) were identified using Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) as a model. The results showed that the AALE promoted the lifespan and stress resistance of C. elegans. Meanwhile, the AALE treated C. elegans had high physical activity and low lipofuscin accumulation without negative impact on body size. It was found that the AALE boosted the expression of oxidative stress-related proteins by regulating the insulin/ IGF-1 signaling (IIS) pathway, which then activated the transcription factors DAF-16/FOXO. The results of RNA-sequence analysis indicated that the changes of genes in nematodes treated with AALE were associated with the responses against oxidative stress, cell maturation, and immune reaction, and stress. The qPCR results indicated that the AALE obviously up-regulated the expression of genes related to antioxidant activity and lipid and carbohydrate metabolisms. These findings reveal the mechanism of health prompting function of Artemisia argyi leaf at molecular genetic level. The positive results obtained from the highly conserved signaling pathways of C. elegans model suggest that Artemisia argyi leaf could have the robust benefits for improving healthy aging as well as preventing aging-related diseases in the human body.
An Evaluation of Artificial Intelligence Applications in Learning English through the Multi-complementary Approach
Authors: BATDI Veli , JIBRIL Shafiyu
Published: November 2024

This study aims to evaluate the applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in learning English. A multi-complementary approach (McA) was adopted as a research design to achieve this. A multi-complementary approach integrates multi-analysis as i) meta-analysis and meta-thematic analysis (pre-complementary) phase; at this stage, in the meta-analysis, the effect of artificial intelligence on learning was found to be 0.063, indicating an average effect size. ii) an experimental design of the pre-and post-test (post-complementary) phase; at this phase, the pre-test assessment results showed non-significant differences while the post-test assessment test results showed a significant improvement in academic achievement in the experimental group using artificial intelligent application compared to control with traditional method of learning. iii) the final phase of the research design is the complementary knowledge phase, where the results from the two previous phases were integrated to evaluate their affinity. At this phase, post-complementary results showed a significant impact of artificial intelligence on the academic performance of students who used artificial intelligence applications for learning English, thereby complementing the pre-complementary findings. In conclusion, the study emphasises the positive impact of artificial intelligence applications on English language learning outcomes. Despite some challenges faced by students, the integration of artificial intelligence applications into teaching-learning environments is important for enhancing students' academic achievements and fostering a more engaging and interactive learning experience. By addressing the challenges and harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence technologies, educators can create more effective and personalised language learning experiences for students.
Cellulose Nanocrystals Prepared by Different Methods as Toughening Agents in Sodium Alginate/Polyacrylamide Hydrogels for Flexible Sensors
Authors: Che Wenrong , He Ziyang , Chi Yuhang , Li Baohui , Zheng Jianwei , Zeng Xianhai , Zuo Miao
Published: November 2024

Cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) is one of the most important biomass-derived materials for reinforcing hydrogels. Nevertheless, there is a lack of comparative studies examining the impact of CNC synthesized viadisparate methodologies on the toughening of hydrogels. This study synthesized two different CNCs through the sulfate hydrolysis and deep eutectic solvent (DES) synthesis methods from Gleditsia sinensis peel, a forest residue, and compared their effects on the enhancement of the mechanical properties of SA/PAAM hydrogels. The comprehensive characterizations demonstrated that the mechanical properties of hydrogels derived from DES-CNC are superior to those derived from S-CNC. The DES-CNC/SA/PAAM hydrogels revealed a homogeneous structure with excellent strain (2534%), high transparency (90%), and self-adhesiveness (15 kPa). The flexible sensor assembled using hydrogels exhibited accurate real-time monitoring capabilities for minor and larger strains during movement. To investigate the enhancement mechanism of CNCs on hydrogels, this work evaluated weak interaction forces between DES-CNC/SA/PAAM components through the quantum chemical theoretical calculations, with the combination of wave function analysis method and Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. This work provides comparative tests of forestry biomass sources in hydrogel synthesis and sensing applications and suggests a new idea for high-value utilization of biomass feedstocks.
Effectiveness of Resilience Training and Experience Sharing in a Virtual Support Group on Increasing Hope for Life in Diabetic Patients with Amputation at Velayat Hospital, Mashhad
Authors: Bideskan Samaneh Safari , Khalvati Maliheh , Gharebaghi Soraya , Kamyar Mohammad Mahdi , Darabi Zahra , Gharetikan Ali Rabbani , Kamalipour Sara
Published: November 2024

Background and Aim: Amputation is a significant life disruption, often stemming from diabetes, leading to mental and emotional distress in affected individuals. Resilience training may help improve the emotional state and instill hope in these patients. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of resilience training and experience sharing in a virtual support group on enhancing hope for life among diabetic amputees at Velayat Hospital, Mashhad, in 2023.
Methods: This quasi-experimental study utilized a pre-test and post-test design with a control group. A sample of 30 diabetic amputee patients from Velayat Hospital was randomly assigned to experimental (n=15) and control (n=15) groups between January 20 and April 19, 2023. Data were collected using a demographic information checklist and Miller's hope for life questionnaire, analyzed via SPSS software (version 23) with independent two-sample t-tests.
Results: Among the 30 participants, 22 (73.3%) were male, with an age range of 43 to 74 years (mean age: 57.73, SD: 8.34). Initially, males displayed higher hope for life scores, but post-intervention, females showed greater increases. There was a statistically significant difference between hope for life scores before (Mpre=152.20, SDpre=19.86) and after (Mpost=173.66, SDpost=13.33) the intervention (P=0.001, t=-4.285). This indicates a significant positive effect of the resilience training on hope scores (Cohen’s d(SMD): -1.26).
Conclusion: Education and patient engagement in treatment significantly enhance quality of life and reduce anxiety, confirming the efficacy of resilience training and experience sharing among diabetic amputee patients.
Clinical significance of micro-T-wave-alternans testing in prognostification of ventricular tachyarrhythmias in patients at-risk for sudden cardiac death
Authors:   , Lotter Anna Laura
Published: November 2024

In dieser prospektiven Beobachtungsstudie an 37 Patienten mit primär- oder sekundärprophylaktischer ICD-Implantationsindikation zeigte sich weder eine Korrelation eines positiven MTWA-Testes, gemessen mit Spektralmethode unter Belastung, mit dem Auftreten einer ventrikulären Tachyarrhythmie (ATP- oder ICD-Schockabgabe) noch eine Korrelation mit einem nicht-negativen MTWA-Tests und dem Auftreten einer ventrikulären Tachyarrhythmie. Ebenfalls konnte keine signifikante Korrelation weder eines positiven noch eines nicht-negativen MTWA-Testes mit einer kardiovaskulär bedingten Hospitalisation festgestellt werden. Der einzige klinische Prädiktor für einen nicht-negativen MTWA-Test ist die LV-Funktion (LVEF). Alle Patienten wurde vor oder nach MTWA-Test mit Herz-MRT untersucht; es ergab sich keine Korrelation eines positiven/nicht-negativen MTWA-Ergebnisses mit einem MRT-Marker, auch nicht mit LGE oder Fibrose. Zudem zeigte sich keine Korrelation der MRT-Parameter mit dem Auftreten einer ventrikulären Tachyarrhythmie oder dem Ereignis einer kardiovaskulären Hospitalisation. Patienten mit unbestimmbarem MTWA-Ergebnis waren im Gegensatz zu Patienten mit positivem und negativem MTWA-Ergebnis kardiovaskulär häufiger vorerkrankt, rauchten häufiger und nahmen häufiger ARNI bei fortgeschrittener Herzinsuffizienz ein. Dies ist unseres Wissens die erste Studie, die ein aktuelles Risikokollektiv für den plötzlichen Herztod mit und ohne Herzinsuffizienz unter Leitlinien gerechter medikamentöser Therapie mit eingeschränkter LV-Funktion mittels MTWA-Testung untersuchte und keine klinische Korrelation mit dem Auftreten einer ventrikulären Tachyarrhythmie und einem positiven/nicht-negativen MTWA-Ergebnis zeigen konnte. Aufgrund der geringen Fallzahl und der Unmöglichkeit des Absetzens von betablockierenden Substanzen bei Patienten mit teilweise fortgeschrittener Herzinsuffizienz vor MTWA-Testung sind die Ergebnisse eingeschränkt verwertbar.
Globe Artichoke Production Potential in Northern New England
Authors: Ginakes Peyton , Hutton Mark G. , Handley David T.
Published: November 2024

Globe artichokes (Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus) are high-value crops grown primarily as perennials in locations with temperate climates, such as Italy, Spain, and central California (USA). When grown as annual crops in cooler regions such as New England, vernalization is required for first-year bud production. However, despite factoring heavily into annual production potential, chilling requirements vary by genotype and are undocumented for most commercially available cultivars. We compared the marketable yield potential of eight artichoke cultivars grown as annuals in Monmouth, ME, USA, over 3 years in replicated field experiments. We also compared black plastic culture against bare ground, straw mulch, and reflective mulch. Increasing seedling cold exposure to 550 hours before transplanting resulted in increased yields across all cultivars, and the production potential was on par with yields in other regions where artichokes are grown annually. ‘Green Globe Improved’ produced consistently high yields of marketable artichokes. ‘Tavor’ and ‘Wonder’ produced yields comparable to ‘Green Globe Improved’ but appeared sensitive to black plastic mulch in particularly hot environmental conditions. Artichokes grown on bare ground during two of three trial years were less productive than those grown on black plastic or reflective mulches, likely because of nutrient leaching. Most buds produced across all years, mulches, and cultivars were small (<3 inches in diameter). Producers in New England should ensure that their markets will be receptive to small artichokes before growing annual artichoke crops at scale.
Leading in a Room Full of Boys: A Retrospective Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of the Leadership Experiences of Adolescent Women as a Minority in a Coed Senior High School in the Philippines
Authors: Esguerra-Escarez Socorro Perpetual
Published: November 2024

This study explored the lived experiences of seven student leaders who belonged to the first three cohorts (2018, 2019, and 2020) of female transfer students in a private Catholic senior high school in Metro Manila after years of exclusive basic education. Using retrospective IPA, participants were individually interviewed to analyze the meanings they ascribed to their leadership experiences three to six years ago. Participants recalled their challenges, coping strategies, as well positive experiences as student leaders. Following Willig’s steps in IPA, data analysis yielded the following key themes: Leadership as (a) unsafe space (for women), (b) a response to systematized injustice, (c) adaptive resilience-building, (d) building social support systems, (e) character-forming, and (f) purpose-driven. These themes were framed by the participants’ experience of gender conflict and discrimination as a minority in their new school environment. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Keywords: gender, women minority, adolescent women leaders, leadership, leader emergence, leadership development, coeducation, retrospective IPA, Philippines
Islamic financial depth, inflation, interest rates, and economic growth in Saudi Arabia: An application of vector autoregression model
Authors: Abiodun Oladapo Ibrahim , Opeyemi Akinwale Yusuf
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the short-run dynamics among Islamic financial depth, interest rates, inflation, and their impact on Saudi Arabian economic output using quarterly information spanning 2017–2023. The study employed a vector autoregressive model due to the non-cointegrated nature of the variables. Results indicate positive short-run relationships between the current GDP per capita and its lagged value, and between economic growth and inflation. Conversely, interest rates demonstrated a negative short-run relationship with economic growth, while Islamic financial depth showed a positive but lagged impact. Wald tests confirmed short-run causality from inflation, interest rates, and Islamic financial depth to GDP. These findings suggest that keeping inflation in check with good central bank policies is important for stable markets and a growing economy. Furthermore, the size of the Islamic finance sector in Saudi Arabia seems to boost the country’s economy. The findings provide useful information for Saudi Arabian decision-makers in government and Islamic financial institutions.
Antecedents and outcomes of work-life balance for women faculty members in India
Authors: H. S. Jamunarani , Syed Rajeena
Published: November 2024

Work-life balance is crucial for the well-being and job satisfaction of female teachers in higher educational institutions. Female faculty members face unique challenges in managing academic and personal responsibilities. This study aims to explore the antecedents and outcomes of work-life balance among female faculty in higher educational institutions in India. A quantitative study was conducted using a questionnaire method via SMART-PLS software. The study surveyed 1,384 women teaching at universities, first-grade colleges, and business schools, with respondents aged between 25 and 65 years, up to 20 years of teaching experience, and holding qualifications of either a master’s (71.63%) or a Ph.D. degree (28.37%). These findings illustrate that the supervisor support (β = 0.366) and high-commitment work system (β = 0.308) positively impact work-life balance. The impact of organizational strategies is insignificant. There is a significant mediation impact of work-life balance (β = 0.120) between supervisor support and job satisfaction. In contrast, it is insignificant for work-life balance mediation between organizational strategies and job satisfaction. In addition, work-life balance highly affects work productivity (β = 0.730), employee propensity to work from home (β = 0.471), and job satisfaction (0.327). The study highlights the need for educational institutions to actively support supervisory practices and a high-commitment work system to address the specific needs of female employees.
Examining the influence of work environment and compensation on employee job satisfaction: A case study of Al-Hoty Analytical Services in Bahrain
Authors: Milhem Marwan , Ateeq Ali , Alzoraiki Mohammed , Sayed Husain Masooma , Yahia Mustafa Alastal Ahmed
Published: November 2024

This study examines the impact of compensation and work environment on employee job satisfaction at Al-Hoty Analytical Services in the Kingdom of Bahrain. In a competitive global market, optimizing workplace conditions is crucial for enhancing employee morale and organizational performance. A sample of 152 employees from various departments at Al-Hoty Analytical Services was surveyed using a structured questionnaire, applying saturated sampling within a quantitative research framework. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 26. The results indicate that the physical work environment significantly contributes to higher levels of job satisfaction, emphasizing the importance of a well-designed workspace. The social work environment, while positively correlated with satisfaction (p = 0.926), did not significantly impact overall satisfaction (β = 0.385, p < 0.001). In contrast, both direct and indirect compensation had significant positive effects on job satisfaction, with direct compensation having a stronger influence (β = 0.273, p < 0.001) than indirect compensation (β = 0.238, p = 0.001). The study provides practical insights for organizational leaders and contributes to the broader understanding of job satisfaction dynamics.
Parastomal hernias: the state of the problem, the possibilities of prevention and treatment at the hospital and outpatient stages
Authors: Katorkin S. E. , Kuper V. D. , Lichman L. L. , Andreev P. S.
Published: November 2024

According to WHO there is an annual increase in the number of ostomy patients, whose number is 100–150 people per 100,000 population. As of 2019, there were more than 3,000 ostomy patients living in the Samara region of the Russian Federation. This leads to an increase in risk factors for complications, the most common of which is the formation of parastomal hernias. After two years or more, parastomal hernias are diagnosed in at least 50% of stomached patients andlead to a marked deterioration in the quality of life. The purpose of this review is to analyze the modern definition of the concept of parastomal hernia, epidemiology, risk factors, existing classifications, diagnostic methods, conservative and surgical treatment, as well as prevention of parastomal hernia. Currently there are no specific methods for the conservative treatment of parastomic hernias. Modern surgical methods for treating ostomy patients can be divided into three groups: stoma transposition, autogernioplasty and allogernioplasty. But there is no single choice of an algorithm for their surgical correction. Therefore, the development of new treatment methods, as well as modifications of existing ones, continues to be relevant. In the analysis of possible ways to prevent the development of parastomal hernia, the importance of focusing on this problem at all stages of medical rehabilitation has been established. During the pre-operative preparation, it is important to choose the correct location of the future stoma, as well as to determine the access to the intervention. It is necessary to appropriately approach the choice of the method of elimination and observe the principles of intestinal stoma formation, as well as to use a mesh implant. It is important to provide detailed information to the patient in the early postoperative period and to develop the number of specialized offices for stoma patients.
Features of recurrence of varicose disease of the lower limb and its surgical correction
Authors: Myshentsev P. N. , Katorkin S. E.
Published: November 2024

Despite the rapid development and rapid spread of minimally invasive techniques in the surgical treatment of chronic venous diseases in recent years, the relapse rate, taking into account the postoperative period, continues to remain high. Currently, there is no unified algorithm for surgical treatment of patients with recurrent varicose veins of the lower extremities. Therefore, discussion of surgical tactics taking into account the individual clinical and anatomical form of disease relapse is an urgent problem. The article provides a review of modern domestic and foreign literature on the incidence, etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis and surgical treatment options for recurrent varicose veins of the lower extremities. The modern classifications REVAS and PREVAIT, used to assess the recurrence of varicose veins of the lower extremities, are presented. Modern hypotheses about the main reasons leading to its occurrence are reflected in detail. An analysis of the relapse rate after the use of various methods of surgical correction of the primary disease was carried out. The review provides characteristics of both classical and modern methods for correcting recurrent varicose veins of the lower extremities. The role of ultrasound duplex angioscanning of the veins of the lower extremities is emphasized as an optimal diagnostic method that makes it possible to accurately identify the main pathomorphological and hemodynamic causes of the development of relapse of the disease. Surgical interventions for relapse should be performed only in specialized departments and by highly qualified surgeons. When surgically treating recurrent varicose veins of the lower extremities, it is necessary to correct the venous blood flow in all parts of the muscular-venous pump, and not be limited to simple removal of varicose veins.