bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does the Development Level of the Origin Country of International Students Influence where they Enroll? A Case Study of the Netherlands
Authors: Weber Tijmen , Van Mol Christof , Wolbers Maarten HJ
Published: November 2023

In this paper we investigate whether there is a relationship between which preferences international students have and the development level of their origin countries. We theorize that international students from lower developed countries are more likely to choose higher quality study programs and enroll in fields of studies that are regarded to have better career prospects. International students from higher developed countries, on the contrary, are theorized to show more variety in the fields of study they enroll, and to be more likely to enroll in institutions that are in cities with more amenities. To test these hypotheses, we make use of a full population dataset containing nearly every international student in the Netherlands for the years 2016-2019. Our results confirm that students from lower developed countries are indeed more likely to enroll in fields of studies traditionally associated with better labor market outcomes. We also find evidence that master students from lower developed countries are more likely to enroll in higher quality programs, while master students from higher developed countries are more likely to choose institutions in cities that are larger and/or have more amenities. Interestingly, for bachelor students the results are less conclusive. Together, these findings offer new insights to the existing literature and open up new avenues for research which could help us better understand the heterogeneity in international students’ enrollment decisions.
DOES EVERY HOTEL ROOM NEED A MINIFRIDGE? Empirical evidence from consumer self-reports and an automatic sensor-based system measuring electricity consumption and guest use
Authors: Dolnicar Sara , Greene Danyelle , Layeghy Siamak , Portmann Marius
Published: November 2023

Most hotel rooms contain a minifridge. Manufacturing, operating, and disposing of minifridges is environmentally unsustainable, and costs money. We ask whether it is necessary to provide minifridges in each room. We collect (1) electricity consumption and guest use data for 19 minifridges across four hotels using a newly developed automatic monitoring system, and (2) survey data to gain insights into hotel guests’ stated preferences. Results indicate that electricity use is independent of minifridge used and that only a subset of hotel guests use the minifridge. Most guests prefer having a minifridge, but do not react negatively to it not being available. It may be worth reviewing the current default inclusion of minifridges and considering alternative system minifridge provision systems.
The Civil Society Organizations effect: A mixed-methods analysis of bottom-up accountability in Brazilian public policy
Authors: Galdino Manoel , Mondo Bianca Vaz , Sakai Juliana Mari , Paiva Natália
Published: November 2023

This paper examines the effect of bottom-up accountability on public service delivery. It differentiates between light and small cost information-driven interventions on one hand and the costly mobilization and monitoring efforts of organized Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) on the other. We argue that the latter type of interventions can drive significant policy change. By employing a mixed-methods approach integrating causal queries and a difference in differences analysis, we present quantitative and qualitative evidence of the effectiveness of the Obra Transparente project by Brazilian NGO Transparência Brasil, engaging 21 local CSOs in South and Southeast Brazil. Our findings emphasize the importance of sustained, coordinated efforts by socially embedded CSOS. We also show that these efforts, while costly, are cost-effective.
The European Court of Justice, an Able and Unwilling Lawmaker: Evidence from 920 Free Movement and Persons Judgements
Authors: Šadl Urška , Hermansen Silje
Published: November 2023

Does the European Court of Justice respond to political division authoritatively or cautiously? The existing literature suggests the former but this article, surveying 920 free movement of persons judgments, suggests the latter: the Court issues fewer legally weighty decisions about the substance and the scope of the application of rights, principles, and the limits of European competence (audacious judgments) in times of uneven political support while also disproportionately increasing chamber size. The findings cast the Court as a selectively audacious lawmaker, primarily concerned with procedural legitimacy. They nuance the established narrative of the Court as able and willing to make law in times of political stalemate and legislative paralysis. More broadly, the article suggests that courts do not make policy in lieu of legislators when and because they can but avoid policymaking if and until they can.
Pemanfaatan Teknologi Digital Dalam Media Pembelajaran Sejarah
Authors: Maulani Muhammad Rifky
Published: November 2023

Tujuan penulisan dari artikel ini adalah untuk menganalisis pentingnya pemanfaatan teknologi digital dalam media pembelajaran sejarah. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah dengan menggunakan metode literature, yaitu mengumpulkan data dari berbagai sumber yang sesuai dengan permasalahan ini. Dalam artikel ini menjelaskan bahwa pemanfaatan teknologi digital untuk pembelajaran sejarah sangat berguna untuk menunjang pembelajaran di era digital ini khusus pembelajaran sejarah. Artikel ini juga membahas beberapa jenis media digital yang dapat digunakan untuk meningkatkan kualitas dan efektivitas pembelajaran Sejarah, seperti video, animasi, game, dan media sosial serta artikel ini juga membahas beberapa manfaat dan tantangan yang dihadapi oleh guru dan siswa dalam menggunakan media digital ini dan memberikan beberapa rekomendasi untuk mengatasi hambatan tersebut
Efektivitas Aplikasi Pembelajaran Berbasis Ponsel Pintar untuk Pendidikan Sejarah Lokal
Authors: Fitri Siti Walinda
Published: November 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui keefektifan aplikasi pembelajaran yang diaksesmelalui mobile smartphone sebagai media pengenalan sejarah lokal masa revolusi fisik di Kalimantan Selatan pada siswa kelas XI IPS SMA Negeri 7 Banjarmasin. Metode kuantitatif digunakan dengan desain pre-experimental one-group pretest-posttest. Sampel penelitian berjumlah 25 orang siswa yang diambil dari populasi menggunakan teknik sample random sampling. Instrumen penelitian yang digunakan berupa tes berbentuk pilihan ganda dengan jumlah soal 25 butir. Teknik analisis yang digunakan adalah analisis paired sample t test dengan hipotesis H0 = tidak terjadi peningkatan dari hasil pretest ke posttest setelah diberi treatment, dan H1 = terjadi peningkatan dari hasil pretest ke posttest setelah diberi treatment. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa setelah diberi treatment dengan menggunakan media aplikasi pembelajaran, nilai posttest siswa lebih besar dibandingkan pretest dengan rata-rata posttest (76,80) > pretest (56,32). Melalui perhitungan statistik diketahui bahwa -thitung (-11,058) < -ttabel (-2,064) dengan korelasi yang bersifat kuat dan positif sebesar 0,729 yang berarti H1 diterima sehingga dapat dikatakan terjadi peningkatan pemahaman siswa setelah menggunakan aplikasi pembelajaran. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, disimpulkan bahwa aplikasi pembelajaran berbasis mobile smartphone efektif digunakan sebagai media pengenalan sejarah lokal masa revolusi fisik di Kalimantan Selatan pada siswa kelas XI IPS SMA Negeri 7 Banjarmasin.Kata Kunci: Sejarah Lokal, Aplikasi Pembelajaran Berbasis Mobile Smartphone.
Pentingnya Media Pembelajaran Saat Proses Belajar Mengajar
Authors: Halimah Siti
Published: November 2023

Learning media is any form of tool or material used in the learning process to assist students in understanding and mastering subject matter. Learning media is also something that really helps teachers to convey learning material so that children can have interest and interest in the learning material to be conveyed. In using learning media, teachers must be able to choose learning media that is suitable for the material to be delivered and must adjust to the character of the students. Some teachers still do not understand how important it is to utilise learning media that is suitable for learning so that learning does not feel monotonous or boring for students. Therefore, in the selection of learning media in the teaching and learning process is very important, the right learning media will make students understand or understand the material presented. The results of the study state that the right learning media is very important in supporting learning in students. The selection of the right learning media can help students to understand the learning material delivered by the teacher. Learning media can provide concrete experiences and also as an intermediary thathelps the learning process of students.
Penggunaan Media Sebagai Alat Dalam Pembelajaran
Authors: Hartati Selvina Tri
Published: November 2023

Media dari bahasa latin medium yaitu perantara atau pengantar. Media juga diartikan sebagai sumber informasi yang dapat disalurkan kepada penerima, penggunaan media telah memudahkan para pengajar atau peserta didik untuk menyampaikan informasi dan untuk membuat pengalaman belajar menjadi lebih fleksibel. Penggunaan media juga telah membangkitkan keinginan siswa untuk belajar, dikarenakan para siswa lebih suka belajar melalui media, seperti melalui media visual, audio, maupun audio visual. Dalam menggunakan media itu harus lebih teliti agar tidak mendapatkan info yang hoax, dan agar mendapatkan ilmu dan pengalaman belajar yang baik. Manfaat media dalam pembelajaran yaitu: Penyampaian materi, pelajaran dapat diseragamkan, proses pembelajaran menjadi lebih jelas dan menarik, proses pembelajaran menjadi lebih interaktif, efisiensi dalam waktu dan tenaga.
PERENCANAAN DAN PENGEMBANGAN KAWASAN PERUMAHAN YPPI WIDYAGAMA DI DESA KLAMPOK SINGOSARI
Authors: Zaenudin Moch , Irawan Dafid , Halim Abdul
Published: November 2023

Perumahan dan permukiman merupakan salah satu kebutuhan dasar manusia dalam rangka peningkatan dan pemerataan kesejahteraan rakyat. Penelitian ini berlokasi di desa Klampok, kecamatan Singosari, Kabupaten Malang. Hasil penelitiannya adalah persentase pembebanan biaya pelaksanaan perumahan YPPI Widyagama di desa Klampok antara lain pembebasan tanah sebesar 40% atau senilai Rp 6.757.981.803,-, Fisik banguana sebesar 26 % senilai Rp 6.910.987.548,- , Infrastruktur sebesar 21% senilai Rp 3.615.922.744,- , dan biaya administrasi dan perijinan sebesar 14% atau senilai Rp 2.329.473.960,-. Besarnya harga jual rumah yang sesuai untuk masing- masing tipe rumah pada Perumahan YPPI Widyagama yaitu type 30/60 dengan harga Rp 292.000.000, type 36/72 seharga Rp 350.000.000,-, type 45/84 dengan harga Rp 418.500.000,-, dan type 85/13 seharga Rp 806.000.000,-, serta type 56/84 dengan harga Rp 495.000.000. Investasi awal yang di perlukan dalam pengembangan kawasan perum YPPI adalah Rp 8.552.044,068,-. Berdasarkan parameter Kelayakan Finansial yang digunakan dalam studi ini, analisa finansial dengan parameter Pay Back Period (PP) menunjukkan bahwa modal awal yang ditanamkan oleh pengembang dapat kembali dalam jangka waktu 1 tahun 5 bulan. Parameter BCR = 1,33 > 1. Parameter Net Present Value (NPV) dengan menetapkan besarnya angka arus pengembalian (i) sebesar 20% dalam kurun waktu 5 tahun, didapatkan nilai NPV positif sebesar Rp. 6.143.372.846,-. Untuk parameter Internal Rate of Return (IRR) diperoleh nilai sebesar 31,34%. Nilai ini lebih besar dari nilai Minimum Attractive Rate of Return (MARR) yang diinginkan yaitu 20%. Dari keseluruhan pembahasan di atas menunjukkan bahwa lokasi tanah perumahan YPPI Widyagama di ddesa Klampok layak untuk di buat sebagai kawasan perumahan.
Creative Thinking dalam Implementasi dan Rancang Bangun Multiple Sensors berbasis Plug-and-Play Systems with Database
Authors: Baskoro Farid , Suprianto Bambang , Anifah Lilik , Ekohariadi  , Nurdiansyah Aristyawan , Rochman Miftahur
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study is to implement creative thinking from the aspect of innovation in developing multiple sensors in plug-and-play system with a database. The method used in this study was an experiment conducted by taking a sample of 5000 data. The location of the research was carried out in the telematics laboratory at Surabaya State University building A8 with room dimensions of 9 x 10 meters. The results of this study indicate a plug-and-play process developed by a scanning process to find connected PORTs without having to do configuration, showing a comparison of the DHT11 error value with a comparator that reaches 2.057 % on the temperature value, 0.829 % on the humidity value, 1.514 % on light intensity value, 1.429% on distance value, and provides 5000 data which includes temperature, humidity, light intensity, and distance data stored in database. Data on temperature, humidity, light intensity, distance, plug-and-play systems, GUI, and databases obtained by researchers are very useful for further research that will be developed to meet smart systems.
Comorbid mental disorders with epilepsy in childhood
Authors: Yakovleva Y. A. , Kissin M. Y. , Gumennik E. V. , Semenova S. V.
Published: November 2023

The clinical and anamnestic method analyzed 496 outpatient records of children and adolescents suffering from epilepsy in order to identify data contributing to the development and influencing the nature and severity of comorbid mental disorder. The presence of cognitive and affective disorders of varying severity was noted in 415 (83.6%) patients. As an addition to the neurological diagnosis was revealed: 171 patients (61.3%) had anxiety-depressive syndrome, 245 patients (87.8%) had emotional-volitional instability syndrome, and 101 patients (36.2%) had autism spectrum disorder (ASD). But further psychiatric verification of these syndromes in accordance with ICD-10 was not carried out. Clinical, neurophysiological and morphological characteristics of comorbid mental symptoms in epilepsy in childhood and adolescence were revealed.
Structured professional psychological judgment for assessing the risk of public danger in persons with mental disorders
Authors: Makushkina O. A. , Leurda E. V.
Published: November 2023

The results of the approbation of the Protocol of structured professional judgment developed for the assessment of psychological factors influencing the formation of socially dangerous behavior in persons with severe mental disorders are presented. In order to determine psychometric properties and prognostic reliability, 160 patients of both sexes with persistent illegal and law-abiding behavior, average age 40 ±13 years, were examined using the Protocol. The respondents were assessed for affective rigidity, extrapunitive orientation of frustration reaction, cognitive rigidity, low self-esteem, internal locus of control, lack of empathy, egocentrism, ability to reflect on life experience. Each feature was assigned a score, the scores were summed up, the amount was compared with the threshold value. Prognostic reliability was assessed using ROC analysis (Receiver Operating Characteristics). Sensitivity and specificity were 98.1% and 88.1%, respectively. The area under the ROC curve is 0.97±0.01 with 95% CI: 0.951-0.989. The resulting model was statistically significant (p<0.001). This Protocol is not an independent tool, but serves as an addition to the methodology of Structured Risk Assessment of Dangerous Behavior (SOROP) and clinical assessment. Its integration into the risk determination procedure will ensure the implementation of a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach in making judgments about the potential public danger of the patient, will increase its objectivity and evidence.
SHOPPING TOURISM IS A MANIFESTATION OF THE COMMERCIAL DYNAMICS IN THE ALGERIAN CITY – A CASE STUDY: SOUK AHRAS CITY
Authors: Tourghi Hani  , Testas Mohamed  , Sid Ahmed Soufiane
Published: November 2023

The aim of this research is to study the reality of shopping tourism and its impact on the growth, organization, and dynamics in an Algerian city: Souk Ahras city as a case study. It highlights the various forms and aspects of shopping tourism and its influence on the commercial, economic, social, and cultural sectors. The research also examines the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats associated with shopping tourism in the city of Souk Ahras, and formulates the general strategy for the city using SWOT analysis. The results derived from the strategy and field investigation indicate that shopping tourism in the city of Souk Ahras is influenced by several factors. These factors include the commercial weight of the city, its strategic geographic location, its openness to the border area, and the significant influx of tourists, especially from Tunisia. The city has experienced substantial commercial development through markets and shopping centers, contributing to increased inputs and resources. The availability of goods and products at competitive prices can be attributed to the social support policy on raw materials in Algeria. Additionally, the growth of the informal sector has provided a wide variety of products. All of these factors have positioned the city of Souk Ahras as an attraction for tourist flows, making shopping tourism a significant urban phenomenon that influences the organization and economy of the city.
TEACHING STRATEGIES TO ENGAGE LEARNERS IN ACTIVE LEARNING IN BUSINESS STUDIES
Authors: Ngwenya Jabulisile  , Zulu Sphelele
Published: November 2023

Teachers in the 21st century are encouraged to creatively and actively engage learners in the learning process. This requires teachers to use student-centred approaches for learners to improve their learning experiences This article explores teaching strategies teachers use to engage learners in active learning in Business Studies. The study employed a qualitative case study of six purposively selected Grade 10 Business Studies teachers. Data were obtained through semi-structured individual and focus group interviews. Thematic analysis method was used to analyse data. What emerged from the findings is that participants acknowledged the role of learner involvement in creating a supportive social environment that allowed opportunities for enhancing learning of new concepts. Teachers were inspired to express themselves and share in a more relaxed manner without being ridiculed during discussions and presentations. Engaging learners in a variety of collaborative activities led to positive interdependence and interaction while developing self-confidence and interpersonal skills. Diversity in members created spaces for learners to share different viewpoints.
RESULTS OF DETERMINING THE HARDNESS OF THE SEED COAT OF GRAINS GROWN IN MONGOLIA
Authors: Orkhon Lkhvasvren  , Amartuvshin Oidov  , Ganbat Balsan  , Gangantogos Yadamsuren  , Battugs Sukhee
Published: November 2023

The objectives of the long-term development policy of Mongolia "VISION-2050" include scientific and knowledge-based development of agricultural production with the sight of sustainable development, the ability to transform knowledge into practice, the introduction of advanced technologies and innovations, the extension of agricultural raw materials and products in a foreign market, suspending the import of certain types of raw materials and products, and increasing exports.In order to determine the hardness of grain seeds, carried out 3-5 repeated experiments and measurements on the laboratory equipment for each grain grade after considering the different levels of moisture and made mathematical and statistical analysis on data of collected samples and processed experiment results.
The Effect of learning resources on enrollment for higher education and career advancement in Kenya
Authors: Wahome Ruth
Published: November 2023

The higher education space appears to have greatly evolved in the last two decades following a raft of reforms. Education and career growth are widely perceived to be intricately interlinked. Education leads to overall economic growth as well as increased income for the individuals. This has resulted to an increase in demand for higher education as individuals advance in their cognitive and social skills leading to development in human capital. However, the attainment of higher education is dependent on the quantity and quality of inputs which shape the outcomes. To address this gap, the paper examined the effect of learning resources on the pursuit of higher education and career advancement in Kenya. Career advancement increases individual’s competitiveness and translates to deliberate progression in work and socioeconomic growth. The paper is motivated by the human capital theory which associates higher education to increase in productivity of human beings through improved skills, the social cognitive career theory which explains self-efficacy and academic efficacy to individual economic development as well as the input output theory which in this context links the learning resources as inputs in higher education and the acquired academic knowledge which is an output to career advancement of primary school teachers. Findings from the study revealed the significant role played by the available learning resources. The study recommends that the MOE, TSC and education stakeholders, leverage on the findings from the study when making decision regarding higher education in relation to career advancement and growth.
Flexible in-cavity MRI receiving coil for ultra–high-resolution imaging of the pituitary gland
Authors: Liu Siyuan , Patel Kunal S. , Peeters Sophie , Lin Jiahao , DiRisio Aislyn C. , Vinters Harry V. , Candler Rob N. , Sung Kyunghyun , Bergsneider Marvin
Published: November 2023

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was the preclinical design and construction of a flexible intrasphenoid coil aiming for submillimeter resolution of the human pituitary gland.

METHODS

Sphenoid sinus measurements determined coil design constraints for use in > 95% of adult patients. Temperature safety parameters were tested. The 2-cm-diameter coil prototype was positioned in the sphenoid sinus of cadaveric human heads utilizing the transnasal endoscopic approach that is used clinically. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) was estimated for the transnasal coil prototype compared with a standard clinical head coil. One cadaveric pituitary gland was explanted and histologically examined for correlation to the imaging findings.

RESULTS

With the coil positioned directly atop the sella turcica at a 0° angle of the B0 static field, the craniocaudal distance (21.2 ± 0.8 mm) was the limiting constraint. Phantom experiments showed no detectable change in temperature at two sites over 15 minutes. The flexible coil was placed transnasally in cadaveric specimens using an endoscopic approach. The image quality was subjectively superior at higher spatial resolutions relative to that with the commercial 20-channel head coil. An average 17-fold increase in the SNR was achieved within the pituitary gland. Subtle findings visualized only with the transnasal coil had potential pathological correlation with immunohistochemical findings.

CONCLUSIONS

A transnasal radiofrequency coil feasibly provides a 17-fold boost in the SNR at 3 T. The ability to safely improve the quality of pituitary imaging may be helpful in the identification and subsequent resection of small functional pituitary lesions.
Approach, complications, and outcomes for 37 consecutive pediatric patients undergoing laser ablation for medically refractory epilepsy at Stanford Children’s Health
Authors: Barros Guinle Maria Isabel , Johnstone Thomas , Li Daphne , Kaur Harsheen , Porter Brenda E. , Grant Gerald A.
Published: November 2023

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to better understand the safety and efficacy of laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) for children with medically refractory epilepsy.

METHODS

Thirty-seven consecutive pediatric epilepsy patients at a single pediatric center who underwent LITT ablation of epileptogenic foci between May 2017 and December 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Patient demographics, medication use, seizure frequency, prior surgical interventions, procedural details, and pre- and postoperative seizure history were analyzed.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven pediatric patients (24 male, 13 female) with severe medically refractory epilepsy were included; all underwent stereo-electroencephalography (SEEG) prior to LITT. The SEEG electrode placement was based on the preoperative workup and tailored to each patient by the epileptologist and neurosurgeons working together to identify the epileptic network and hopefully quiet borders. Seizure onset was at a mean age of 2.70 ± 2.82 years (range 0.25–12 years), and the mean age at the time of LITT was 9.46 ± 5.08 years (range 2.41–17.86 years). Epilepsy was lesional in 23 patients (18 tuberous sclerosis, 4 focal cortical dysplasia, 1 gliosis) and nonlesional in 14. Eighteen patients had prior surgical interventions including open resections (n = 13: 11 single and 2 multiple), LITT (n = 4), or both (n = 1). LITT targeted a region adjacent to the previous target in 5 cases. The median number of lasers placed during the procedure was 3 (range 1–5). Complications occurred in 14 (37.8%) cases, only 3 (8.11%) of which resulted in a permanent deficit: 1 venous hemorrhage requiring evacuation following laser ablation, 1 aseptic meningitis, 2 immediate postoperative seizures, and 10 neurological deficits (7 transient and 3 permanent). Postoperatively, 22 (59.5%) patients were seizure free at the last follow-up (median follow-up 18.35 months, range 7.40–48.76 months), and the median modified Engel class was I (Engel class I in 22 patients, Engel class II in 2, Engel class III in 2, and Engel class IV in 11). Patients having tried a greater number of antiseizure medications before LITT were less likely to achieve seizure improvement (p = 0.046) or freedom (p = 0.017). Seizure improvement following LITT was associated with a shorter duration of epilepsy prior to LITT (p = 0.044), although postoperative seizure freedom was not associated with a shorter epilepsy duration (p = 0.667). Caregivers reported postoperative neurocognitive improvement in 17 (45.9%) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

In this large single-institution cohort of pediatric patients with medically refractory seizures due to various etiologies, LITT was a relatively safe and effective surgical approach for seizure reduction and seizure freedom at 1 year of follow-up.
Comparison of clinical outcomes in patients undergoing one- and two-level minimally invasive lumbar microdiscectomy
Authors: Siyaji Zakariah K. , Nguyen Austin Q. , Federico Vincent P. , Zbeidi Shadi , Zavras Athan G. , Baker James D. , Basques Bryce A. , Sayari Arash J. , Phillips Frank M.
Published: November 2023

OBJECTIVE

Herniated nucleus pulposus (HNP) is one of the most common lumbar spine conditions treated surgically, often through a minimally invasive surgery (MIS) microdiscectomy approach. This technique attempts to reduce damage to the paraspinal muscular-ligamentous envelope. However, there are currently limited data regarding comparative outcomes using patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) for one- and two-level MIS discectomies. The aim of this study was to quantify comparative clinical outcomes in patients undergoing one-level and two-level MIS lumbar microdiscectomy for HNP using PROMs.

METHODS

The authors performed a retrospective review of patients undergoing MIS lumbar microdiscectomy between 2004 and 2019 for the primary diagnosis of HNP at a single academic institution. All patients had a minimum 1-year follow-up. Patient demographics and comorbidities were collected to establish baselines between cohorts. PROMs and minimal clinically important differences (MCIDs) were used to examine the patient’s perception of operative success. Bivariate and multivariate linear/logistic regression analyses were used to compare one- and two-level discectomies. The bivariate analysis included the t-test and chi-square test, which were used to assess continuous and categorical variables, respectively. Statistical significance was established at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

A total of 293 patients underwent one-level (n = 250) or two-level (n = 43) MIS discectomies. The mean follow-ups for the one- and two-level cohorts were 50.4 (SD 35.5) months and 61.6 (SD 39.8) months, respectively. Fewer female patients underwent two-level discectomies, and BMI and operative duration were higher in the two-level group (p < 0.001). Recurrent herniation requiring reoperation was recorded at rates of 6.80% and 11.6% in the one- and two-level groups, respectively (p = 0.270). Pre- and postoperative PROMs were largely similar between the cohorts; however, patients undergoing one-level discectomy had greater improvement in leg pain, and a significantly greater proportion of these patients achieved MCID for the leg pain visual analog scale score (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

At the 1-year clinical follow-up, patients who underwent two-level discectomy had significantly less improvement in leg pain scores with lower achievement of MCID for leg pain improvement than patients undergoing one-level procedures. At the 1-year follow-up, there were no other significant differences in PROMs between the two cohorts. Given these findings, patients should be counseled regarding the anticipated outcomes to better manage expectations. Further studies are warranted to examine the long-term clinical outcomes associated with single- and multilevel MIS discectomy.
Essential oils in broiler chicken diets as antimicrobial agents: Systematic review
Authors: Lima Beatriz Delcarme , Silveira Robson Mateus Freitas , Rozza Daniela Bernadete
Published: November 2023

The search for alternative ingredient options in the animal diet that have antimicrobial activity is due to many factors, such as pathogens increasing resistance and the presence of antibiotic residues in animal products consumed by humans. Therefore, there is a rising demand for natural additives that do not interfere with animal development or human health. Here, we compare studies on the use of essential oils as antimicrobial agents in broiler chicken diets. First, 90 papers were found using the key words “broilers”, “antimicrobial”, and “essential oils”. The second step was to select the papers according to the scales of Jadad and Medeiros and Stein, where six remaining researchers were selected to describe the antimicrobial activity of essential oils in response to enteric pathogens. Essential oils (EOS) have antimicrobial activity against different pathogens, such as E. coli, S. Enteritidis, S. Heidelberg and C. perfringens, and are considered alternatives to antibiotics used in animal production. The EOs that showed the greatest effectiveness were oregano essential oil (EO), cinnamaldehyde and thymol concentrates; when used together with additives such as sodium butyrate and xylanase, there was better antimicrobial action and improved animal performance. Ginger and carvacrol EOS also demonstrated antimicrobial activities, as did thymol, cinnamaldehyde and eucalyptus EO concentrates, but studies on the specific action of plant species that produce EOS for certain pathogens are still lacking; thus, the topic lacks an ongoing study addressing the addition of EOS in the feed of poultry production.
Effect of semen extenders, dilution rates and storage periods on spermatozoa quality of Horasi chicken ecotype
Authors: Burilo Amina , Kashoma Isaac
Published: November 2023

Numerous semen extenders have been recommended for storing poultry semen. This study was conducted to assess a suitable extender, storage period and dilution rate for semen collected from the Horasi chicken ecotype. To accomplish the objectives, a 4 x 4 x 4 factorial experiment in a completely randomized design employing four extenders (BPSE, LAKE, CARI and garlic extract mixture), four dilution rates (1:2, 1:3, 1:4 and 1:5) and four storage periods (0, 12, 24 and 48 hours) was used. Semen samples were collected from ten Horasi cockerels using the abdominal massage technique, kept at 4°C and subsequently examined for semen motility, viability and normalcy after extension with specific diluent, each dilution rate and storage period. Sperm motility and viability were significantly (p<0.05) reduced across all extenders and dilution rates examined, while defective spermatozoa increased with storage period. The Beltsville Poultry Semen Extender (BPSE) maintained high spermatozoa motility, viability, and normalcy at all dilution rates and storage periods tested, followed by the CARI and LAKE extenders, whereas the Garlic extender performed worse at all dilution rates and storage periods than the other extenders, especially at a 1:5 dilution rate and 48 hours of storage. Based on our findings, a high percentage of sperm motility, viability, and normalcy for Horasi chicken ecotype semen were observed while using BPSE at a dilution rate of 1:2, and the quality was maintained throughout the storage period tested. Thus, it is concluded that BPSE extender at a 1:2 dilution rate is a suitable extender for Horasi chicken ecotype semen.
Management of quality assurance and development of the quality culture of higher education in Indonesia
Authors: Umbase Ruth Sriana
Published: November 2023

This study aims to analyze quality assurance management in the development of quality culture in higher education institutions in Indonesia. This study method is a literature review. The results of the study show that in the quality assurance policies of higher education institutions in Indonesia, there are two quality assurance systems for higher education institutions, namely, the external and internal quality assurance systems. The effectiveness of external and internal quality assurance depends on internal quality assurance management aimed at building a higher education quality culture. Higher education institutions that are managed effectively and efficiently have a high-quality culture. The quality culture of higher education in Indonesia is unique and different from other organizational cultures. This uniqueness can be seen in the quality of academic services, the productivity of scientific work and community service.
Satisfaction with life among public and private university students in Sabah, Malaysia: A modification scale using factor analysis
Authors: Abdul Malek Mohd. Dahlan , Reny Japil Adeymend , Masdin Mahirah , Bullare Bahari Muhammad Idris , Fahrudin Adi , Huan Zhi Alfred Chan , Madlan Endalan Lailawati , Ardillah Aftar Nur Farhana , Mohamed Kamil Ida Shafinaz , Yusuf Husmiati
Published: November 2023

This research intended to develop a valid and reliable instrument of the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) to measure satisfaction with life (SWL) constructs among public and private university students in Sabah, Malaysia, through the exploratory factor analysis (EFA) procedure. The pilot study obtained a sample of 108 students from public and private education institutions in Sabah, Malaysia, through an online survey using a self-administered questionnaire. The researchers performed the EFA procedure on SWL construct using IBM SPSS 25. The Bartletts' Test of Sphericity is highly significant (Sig. = .000). Furthermore, the sampling adequacy by Kaiser‒Meyer‒Olkin (KMO = 0.839) is excellent. Using the extraction method of Principal Component Analysis (PCA) with Varimax Rotation, a component of the SWL construct is extracted with an eigenvalue of 3.101. The variance explained for this component is 62.030%. The construct of SWL has Cronbach's alpha value of .817. The development scale and validation confirmed that the instrument is consistent and stable with both private and public college and university student samples. It adds a remarkable contribution to the measurement of SWLS, mainly in the context of higher education institution students. The EFA outcomes formed a configuration that extracts a component of SWL, which can be measured by the original five items established in this research. This research reveals that the SWL construct is applicable in this study.
Review of ancillary services and optimal sizing of an energy storage system in a microgrid
Authors: Singh Nirdesh , Jain D. K.
Published: November 2023

The rapid growth of distributed energy generation has brought new challenges for the management and operation of power systems. Voltage fluctuation is one of the primary factors preventing further photovoltaic (PV) penetration in low-voltage networks. The proper sizing and location of any storage system are essential for reducing costs and eliminating losses, which is another element. This review presents an in-depth overview of the different ancillary services that storage systems may offer and a proper sizing of energy storage systems (ESS). Different kinds of ESSs store energy in different ways. Some of these have reached their full potential, while others are still being worked on. Specific storage solutions may be picked depending on how well the application needs to run. Pumped-hydro and thermal energy storage systems are best for large-scale energy storage, while battery energy storage systems are highly suggested for high power and energy needs. Most of the time, supercapacitors, superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES), and flywheel energy storage (FES) are used for short-term and fast-response uses. Hydrogen and methane are not often used to store energy because they could be more efficient. A few case studies are also given.
Experimental control for the spontaneously hypertensive rat: Wistar or Wistar Kyoto? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Rezende Leonardo M. T. , Soares Leôncio L. , Campos Helton O. , Natali Antônio J. , Coimbra Cândido C. , Prímola-Gomes Thales N.
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to carry out a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies that measured the blood pressure (BP) and body mass (BM) of the Wistar (WIS), Wistar Kyoto (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR) strains. The methods followed the criteria established by the PRISMA guidelines. A systematic search in PubMed, Web of Science and EMBASE was performed. After analysis, 83 studies were included for systematic review, and of those, 74 were applicable for BP meta-analysis and 39 for BM meta-analysis. The SHR had higher BP compared to control strains, while WKY had higher systolic BP compared to WIS. The WIS are heavier, followed by the WKY and the SHR. The WIS and WKY strains exhibit similarities and differences, and the choice of the strain to be used as the SHR control requires a deep analysis. However, our results support this theory that both strains can be used as SHR controls.
Systematic literature review on Malaysia Zakat studies (2011-2023)
Authors: Alam Azhar , Ratnasari Ririn Tri , Ryandono Muhamad Nafik Hadi , Prasetyo Ari , Santosa Isnania Wiaam Murti , Bafana Faiz Adib
Published: November 2023

The publication of literature on Zakat Malaysia has significantly grown over the years. This study aimed to systematically review and map the literature on publications related to Malaysian Zakat. The study used the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) system in the screening process of articles that were the subject of the study. Of the 447 zakat research articles indexed in the Scopus database, 51 were selected, making Malaysian zakat publications the primary study material. The results of this study revealed the development of studies on Malaysian Zakat based on the number of publications, authors, countries, subject areas, publication sources, and articles cited. This study succeeded in finding three main segments used by researchers to classify Malaysian zakat studies: Distribution, institutional management, and collection. The survey of zakat distribution examined the success obtained from a distribution with a practical and comprehensive process; the study of zakat institutions focused on improving the quality of institutional services and strategies that influenced the preferences and satisfaction of Muslims in paying Zakat. In contrast, the study of zakat collection in Malaysia emphasized that the digitalization system of zakat collection has great potential to achieve more efficient zakat goals. This study examined several new research development directions from the three segments. It is expected to be a reference for zakat researchers in Malaysia to conduct further research and development of zakat management in Malaysia.
Enhancing young learners’ speaking achievement by using Facebook application: A case study in Indonesia
Authors: Azzahra Alya Nadin , Yusuf Muhammad
Published: November 2023

This research aimed to investigate whether the Facebook application could enhance young learners' speaking achievement. The Classroom Action Research (CAR) design was employed in this study. Both quantitative and qualitative data analysis techniques were used. The quantitative data were used to examine the young learners' speaking achievement scores, while the qualitative data were used to explore their situation in practicing their speaking skills. The findings indicate that the use of Facebook significantly improved young learners' speaking achievement, as evidenced by the mean score of the pre-test (48.46), post-test 1 (56.78), post-test 2 (63.34), and post-test 3 (67.53). Moreover, the percentage of young learners who achieved the minimum mastery criterion increased from 6.25% in the pre-test to 75% in the post-test 3. Based on the observation sheet, it was found that the young learners were enthusiastic, curious, and confident in practicing their English skills.
Formation of lexical competence in foreign philology (English) students during online education
Authors: Lehan Viktoriya , Hodovanets Nataliia , Muraviova Iryna , Litvinova Maryna , Baibakova Olga
Published: November 2023

The research aims to examine the implementation of a model for developing lexical competence in distance learning students. It involves surveying educational institutions through the internet to assess their ability to foster lexical competence. The study findings indicate that teachers employ various tools to enhance lexical competence, such as Kahoot! (95.6%), Moodle (95.5%), Duolingo (89.7%), Google Forms (89.6%), Lingohut (89.2%), and Quizlet (84.7%). Moreover, teachers utilize specific exercises to develop lexical competence, including translation of international words into Ukrainian (95.5%), communicative exercises promoting natural speech usage (95.3%), and exercises comparing words with their definitions (89.5%). Regarding lexical competence development in distance learning, teachers employ control tasks, self-checking tasks, test tasks, and project tasks (98.3%), translation of terms (94.1%), use of lexical constructions in communication (93.8%), and exercises for statement correction (92.4%). The study reveals that ICTs have a positive impact on lexical competence development (95.5%), with a small portion (3.3%) expressing uncertainty, and a minority (1.2%) noting certain disadvantages. A model for developing lexical competence in distance learning has been formulated, incorporating clear goals, objectives, and expected outcomes.
An adaptive system of foreign language training for an adaptive system of teaching a foreign language to students of pedagogical specialties: european experience
Authors: Kosharna Natalia , Petryk Lada , Sytnyk Olha , Rudnik Yuliia , Hapon Liudmyla
Published: November 2023

The individual characteristics of foreign language acquisition among students of pedagogical specialties and the selection of adaptive technologies considering these characteristics are examined in the article. An analysis of studies by methodological researchers that explores the psycho-physiological features of students' memory, thinking, attention, and the emotional sphere is provided. The article presents data on training students in pedagogical specialties based on the authors' developed learning model, utilizing adaptive educational technologies that consider individual language learning styles. Adaptive technologies such as communicative and audio-visual methods (AVM), personalized learning technologies, control-corrective teaching technologies (CCTT), business games, and adaptation-expansion-variation (AEV) learning technologies by both domestic and foreign authors are discussed. It is proven that students possess significant potential in intelligence and personality for effectively acquiring a foreign language in intensive learning conditions. For teachers, it is vital to select the appropriate adaptive technologies based on each student's group and individual characteristics. At the same time, educational institutions need to implement specific measures to support existing motivation and identify personal student traits that actively influence the learning process. Existing research conducted both in our country and abroad (mainly focusing on adaptive information systems) does not provide unanimous consensus on the effectiveness of the adaptive approach. Whether this is due to shortcomings in the conducted studies or the limitations of adaptive technologies remains to be seen as the adaptive approach is still in development. However, this method has shown effectiveness for students with certain levels of knowledge, skills, language abilities, and motivation when learning any foreign language. Other researchers in teaching foreign languages in pedagogical institutions can consider these results and develop their own variations of educational content within the framework of standard discipline programs. The more such studies are conducted, the faster this field of educational technology will be developed and the more promising its application will become clear. Additionally, the study can be extended toward developing electronic platforms based on existing content.