bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of compressive strength and abrasive properties of rice husk ash – cement compressed stabilized earth bricks
Authors: Olumodeji A. O. , Ayodele F. O. , Oluborode K. D.
Published: August 2023

Cement, the most utilized building material in developing countries like Nigeria, is rising daily, making it hard for low-income people to acquire a home. This study aimed at producing compressed stabilized earth bricks (CSEBs) from Rice Husk Ash (RHA) and cement. After uncontrolled calcination of rice husk, the RHA oxide compositions were assessed by X-Ray Fluorescence. Design Expert (RSM) designed mix proportions for seventeen earth brick variables. Cement-RHA-Soil was blended with 0-5% cement and 20-25% water. Box Behnken Design (BDD) of Response Surface Methodology (RSM) in Design Expert Version 6 was used to generate seventeen (17) design mix proportions (variables) for the CSEBs. After damp curing for three days, compressed stabilized earth bricks (CSEBs) were evaluated for compressive strength and abrasion at 28, 56, and 108 days. RHA was pozzolanic because its major oxides (SiO2, Al2O3, and Fe2O3) yielded 75.27%. CSEB compressive strength improved with age. RCB16- CSEBs with 2.5% RHA+2.5% Cement+21.25% WC - exhibited the best compressive and abrasion strength. Thus, RHA is a good cement replacement in CSEB production for cheaper and sustainable building.
Influence of compactive effort on the strength characteristics of lime treated laterite soil mixed with untreated textile effluent
Authors: Bayang F. , Sani J. E , Kevin O. K. , Ijimdiya T. S.
Published: August 2023

Industrial waste generated is a major contributor of total waste worldwide. The proper mechanism for management of these waste needs to be established, especially in developing countries. Therefore, this paper attempts to evaluate the influence of compactive effort on the strength characteristics of lime treated laterite soil mixed with untreated textile effluent. The study was carried out on the index properties, unconfined compressive strength (UCS) and California bearing ratio (CBR) in accordance with the procedures specified by BS 1377 (2) 1990, 1924 (2) and Nigeria General Specifications. Three compactive efforts namely; British Standard light (BSL), West African Standard (WAS) and British Standard Heavy (BSH) were used for the strength characteristics. The findings of the study showed that an increase in the values of lime-TE results in general increase in the strength tests. An improvement in the UCS for 7, 14 and 28days curing period was recorded at peak values of 1531.91, 2199.29 and 2560.48kN/m2 for BSL, WAS and BSH at soil-lime-TE of 4% lime/75% TE, 8% lime/75% TE and 8% lime/50% TE respectively. For the CBR (soaked), the peak values were recorded at 49.70, 71.13 and 97.25% for BSL, WAS and BSH at soil-lime-TE of 6% lime/50% TE, 6% lime/50% TE and 8% lime/50% TE respectively. Considering the resistance to loss in strength, the values were also peaked at 71.77, 81.74 and 60.63kN/m2 at mix ratios of 8% lime/100% TE, 6% lime/75% TE and 8% lime/25% TE respectively. On the bases of these test results, it can be concluded that the utilization of untreated Textile Effluent positively increased the strength characteristics of the lime treated soil, reduced environmental pollution and save construction cost.
Incorporating grain detection and speed control mechanisms in hammer mill operations
Authors: Oyelami A. , Oluwole A.
Published: August 2023

The traditional way of achieving different grain particle sizes in hammer mills is by manually changing the screen to the desired size. This manual process is a production procedure that is time-consuming, demanding, and resource-draining. This study incorporated a grain identification and speed control mechanism into a hammer mill machine. The grain detection mechanism is a system that recognizes a grain type through an RGB (Red, Green, Blue) colour sensor. The system has been programmed and trained to vary the speed of a 2hp electric motor with a maximum speed of 2800rpm based on the colour-matching result obtained when the grain is scanned on the colour sensor. The machine was evaluated using performance parameters such as power consumption and grain sieve analysis of milled grains using three crops (yellow corn, white corn, and cowpea). The Three crops were programmed for milling at three motor speeds (2800rpm, 2200rpm, and 1800rpm), and the result is presented. This paper showed that fine, medium and coarse aggregates were obtained for all three-grain types by varying motor speeds, eliminating the need to manually change the screen. The system was responsive to grain identification and speed selection as programmed.
Pérennisation par modélisation résiliente dans la culture de l’arachide (Arachis hypogaea L.) au Cameroun (Synthèse bibliographique)
Authors: Akoa Victor , Eya’a Clément , Bell Joseph Martin
Published: August 2023

Description du sujet: La culture de l’arachide au Cameroun date de 1928. Les techniques qui ont conduit à la pérennisation de cette protéo-oléagineuse  originaire d’Amérique du Sud, n’ont jamais fait l’objet d’une structuration scientifique. Pourtant, des démarches scientifiques rigoureuses de  modélisations sous forme de résilience ont été pratiquées tant par les pouvoirs publics que par les paysans, dans le but de conserver cette production végétale.

Littérature: Dans un contexte global marqué par les changements climatiques, la préoccupation de la recherche permanente de la meilleure résilience  demeure, car cette spéculation agricole joue un rôle d’équilibre pour les couches vulnérables. A cet effet, le Cameroun dans sa politique agricole, a pu  durant des décennies, combiner les aspects généraux, non-spécifiques et spécifiques de la résilience, afin de pérenniser cette semence exotique au sein de tout son territoire national.

Conclusion: La prévention des risques épidémiologiques durant les changements climatiques pourrait se faire par l’usage  des variantes de la résilience pour une politique agricole compétitive au Cameroun.

 

English title: Sustainability through resilient modeling in groundnut  (Arachis hypogaea L.) cultivation in Cameroon

Description of the subject: Groundnut cultivation in Cameroon dates back to 1928. The techniques that led to the sustainability of this proteo- oleaginous plant originating from South America have never been the subject of scientific structuring. However, rigorous scientific approaches to  modeling in the form of resilience have been practiced both by the public authorities and by farmers, with the aim of preserving this plant production. 

Literature: In a global context marked by climate change, the concern of the permanent search for the best resilience remains, because this agricultural  speculation plays a role of balance for the vulnerable layers. To this end, Cameroon in its agricultural policy has been able for decades to combine the  general, non-specific and specific aspects of resilience, in order to perpetuate this exotic seed within its entire national territory.

Conclusion: The success  of politic in agricultural sector in front of epidemiology risk can be made during climate change by using the different variables of resilience for  sustaining production.
Uptake of HIV Voluntary Counseling and Testing and Associated Factors among Students in the Higher Institutions of Learning in Kigali, Rwanda: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Igiribambe Raissa , Rutayisire Erigene , Habtu Michael
Published: August 2023

BackgroundHIV/AIDS remains a significant global public health challenge with youth bearing the brunt of the burden. One essential method for preventing and accessing AIDS care is through Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT). Regardless of this, youth population continues to have low utilization of VCT services.ObjectiveTo assess the uptake of HIV VCT services and associated factors among university students in Kigali.MethodsA cross-sectional study among 374 students recruited using stratified sampling was conducted. A structured questionnaire was used to gather information. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to assess the independent factors associated with VCT uptake.ResultsThe prevalence of VCT uptake was 59.9%. The logistic regression revealed that being Catholic (AOR = 11.99, 95%CI: 5.44-26.41) and Moslem (AOR = 37.34, 95%CI: 2.67-128.36) compared to Protestant, as well as availability of VCT services (AOR = 5.15, 95%CI: 3.11 - 8.541) favored the use VCT. On the other hand, being aged 20 to 24 years (AOR = 0.112, 95%CI: 0.04 - 0.29) had low likelihood of using VCT than those more than 24 years of age.ConclusionVCT uptake was significantly positively associated with religion and VCT services availability, and negatively associated with age 20-24 years in the campus. Therefore, targeted actions of disseminating information on benefits of VCT and enhancing accessibility of VCT services among students are necessary for the increased VCT uptake to be attained.Rwanda J Med Health Sci 2023;6(2):104-112
Population size and breeding ecology of Yellow-billed Duck (Anas undulata, Dubois 1839) in Chelekleka wetland, Ethiopia
Authors: Teklemariam Gebrekidan Mebrat , Bekele Afework , Afework Bogale Bezawork
Published: August 2023

Yellow-billed Duck (Anas undulata) is a monomorphic African endemic dabbling duck protected by the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Water birds Agreement. This study was conducted to investigate the population size and breeding ecology of Yellow-billed Duck in Chelekleka wetland, Ethiopia from November 2020 to October 2021. Census was conducted during early morning from 6:30 - 10:00 hrs and late afternoon from 15:30 - 18:00 hrs twice per week when the birds are active. Direct observations as well as nest and egg morphometry measurements were conducted to collect data on breeding ecology of Yellow-billed Ducks. During the study period, eight active nests were identified and followed. Data were analysed using R version 4.2 software. A maximum of 315 individuals of Yellow-billed Ducks were counted, with a significantly high population size during dry season compared to wet season (Z = - 10.85, df = 63, p < 0.001). The female Yellow-billed Duck built a nest made up of herbs, defoliated leaves, dried grasses and thin twigs. The nest is circular shaped with a 26 - 32 cm in diameter and 7 - 11 cm in height. They laid eggs that are light brownish. Clutch size ranged from 5 - 8 eggs. The mean egg length, breadth and weight were 45.38 ± 1.65 mm, 39.17 ± 0.58 mm, and 45.4 ± 1.7 gm, respectively (n = 21). The average incubation period per nest was 19 ± 0.82 days (n = 4) with a high hatching success (98.1 %; n = 53). Supporting a considerable number of Yellow-billed Ducks, Chelekleka wetland is ecologically important for breeding and other related ecological requirements of the species. However, anthropogenic factors such as; burning of nesting bushes, wetland degradation, and agricultural expansions are highly threatened their survival. Therefore, sustainable conservation intervention is needed to minimize the threats on the species and its habitat.
Effects of Eight Week Plyometric Training on Shooting and Long Passing Accuracy of under- 17 Tesfa Male Soccer Project at Bahir Dar
Authors: Bazezew Belete Haileyesus
Published: August 2023

The purpose of the present study was to determine the Effects of Eight Weeks of Plyometric Training on Shooting and Long Passing Accuracy of the under -17 Male Tesfa Soccer Project at Bahir Dar. The study engaged a quantitative research approach and a true experimental research design. The target population of this study was 24 (n = 24) male soccer project trainees in Bahir Dar. Due to the small numbers of study population, all trainees were taken using comprehensive sampling techniques. 24 male soccer trainees were divided in to two equal groups, such as EG (N = 12) and CG (N =12) by means of randomization. Both groups undergo programs. The experiment group (EG) performed additional plyometric training for eight weeks, 3-days per week for a total of 60 minutes. The experimental and control group of the study participated in the selected technical skill before and after the training. Shooting accuracy was measured by using the front set ball shot test, and long pass accuracy using accurately kicking the ball to the team meat test. This data was analyzed through SPSS version 23 software by paired sample t-test and independent sample t- test of with a significant level of 0.05. The analyzed data showed that plyometric training significantly improved shooting accuracy long and passing accuracy in the pre-test and post-test performance of EG (p<0.05).But, no significant improvements were found in all selected technical skill variables to the pre-post-test performance of CG (P>0.05). In addition, as it was assessed by the independent t-test, the post-test performance of shooting accuracy and long passing accuracy of EG more significantly improved than post-test CG group tests( p<0.05). Based on this finding, it can be concluded that 8 weeks plyometric training had positive effect on shooting accuracy and long passing accuracy of soccer players. Therefore, it is recommended that soccer players and coaches should include some plyometric exercise in their training sessions for development of the technical skills of players.
Occurrence of Rhesus c, D, e Antigens amongst Blood Donors and Recipients in Awka and Asaba, Nigeria
Authors: Chinedum Onyenekwe C. , Modestus Ezugwu U. , Ogochukwu Onyenekwe N. , Nosakhare Osakue O. , Ifeoma Obu , Alfred Ehiaghe F. , Eric Osakue N. , Achiaku Akaahan , Eno Edet S. , Joy Ehiaghe I.
Published: August 2023

No Abstract
Haematological Parameters of Workers Exposed to Printing Chemicals: A Study in Calabar, Southern Nigeria
Authors: Akpan Patience A. , Asemota Enosakhare A. , Akepu Deborah A. , Effiong GenevieveA.
Published: August 2023

No Abstract
Cross-sectional study on the availability of essential medicines at public health facilities in Jur River County, South Sudan
Authors: Ajingdit Dhal T. , Karimi Peter N. , Carasso Kashi B. , Niragire François
Published: August 2023

Introduction: The availability of essential medicines in health facilities in Jur River County (JRC), South Sudan, is below expectations. This  is despite the requirement that all citizens should be provided with adequate quality health care services. The objective of the study was  to assess the availability of essential medicines and inventory management practices in JRC.Method: This was a cross sectional study conducted in 31 of the 51 health facilities in JRC. These were 23 primary health care units  (PHCUs) and eight primary health care centres (PHCCs). Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, logistics management  information system (LMIS) data reports and checklist forms. All the completed checklists and questionnaires were analysed using IBM  SPSS statistics version 20.0 and LMIS data was analysed using excel spreadsheet.Results: The main findings were stockouts and overstocking of essential medicines, low skilled health workers (HWs) and ineffective  rotation of medicines in the health facilities. From January – August 2021, the stockouts of essential medicines in PHCUs and PHCCs were  44% and 34% respectively, whereas the incidences of over stockings were 22% and 31% respectively. Almost all (97%) of the health  facilities kept records of essential medicines, revealing stockouts of 90.3% on the day of the visit. Of the 31 HWs interviewed 23 (74.9%)  were community health workers (CHWs), four (12.9%) nurses and four (12.9%) pharmacy technicians; most (87.1%) had attained  secondary education.Conclusion: The quantities of essential medicines were inadequate and able to cover only two months. The major reasons were  inadequate supply of essential medicines; recruitment of CHWs and nurses, instead of pharmacy technicians in the management of  supplies; ineffective rotation of medicines within and other health facilities. More research is needed on the factors affecting the availability of medicines at the health facilities in JRC.
Infections and rheumatic diseases
Authors: Mukherjee Sandeep
Published: August 2023

Infections and rheumatic diseases have shared a close relationship since time immemorial. Some rheumatic diseases are a direct  consequence of infections while others have been associated with certain microbes without an established causal link. The above  relationship is becoming more and more complex due to rapid advances in therapeutics, and also because of factors such as climate change and worldwide travel. This is a brief review of the major facets of this relationship and demonstrates that clinicians not only have  to keep up with all the advances in management of rheumatic diseases but also must remain vigilant about both common as well as  opportunistic and unfamiliar infections and their consequences.
An introduction to assessing clinical skills
Authors: Hill Sophie , Bregazzi Rich
Published: August 2023

The successful acquisition of clinical skills is essential to development and competence as a clinician. Clinical skills can be assessed in  undergraduate education and in the workplace after graduation. Clarity about what is being assessed, and why, should support the  development of any assessment process.
Work-related information-seeking behaviour of janitors at the University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: Mkhai Emmanuel , Kassim Mohamed
Published: August 2023

The main purpose of this study was to investigate the information needs and seeking behaviour of janitors working at the University of Dar es Salaam. A descriptive research design with a mixed research approach was used to study the information-seeking behaviour of the janitors. Results revealed that the majority of respondents had a multitude of work-related information needs including financial, health and safety at the workplace, work contracts, workers’ rights, and ethical information. The results further revealed that the majority of the study respondents relied heavily on their friends, mobile phones, social media, and relatives to meet their different work-related information needs. Results showed that most respondents had inadequate information literacy skills that limit their ability to comprehend work-related information and identify relevant sources where they could search and obtain reliable work-related information. The findings of this study have practical implications for formulating strategies for providing work-related information to the underprivileged working class such as the janitors. Understanding the information-seeking behaviour of janitors is imperative to meaningfully responding to their information needs. A better understanding of the janitors’ work-related information needs, sources, and challenges they face when seeking such information will help to design an appropriate information delivery system that will consider the information-seeking behaviour of this underprivileged working class.
Examining the efficacy of Electronic Document Management System and Employees’ Perceptions of its Usefulness at Sokoine University of Agriculture
Authors: Malekani Andrew Watson
Published: August 2023

This study was conducted at the Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) to assess the efficacy of Electronic Document Management System (EDMS) in the accessibility and use of records at the Sokoine University of Agriculture. Specifically, the study sought to assess employees’ perceptions of the use of the Electronic Document Management System at the Sokoine University of Agriculture and identify the challenges facing employees in accessing and using EDMS at the Sokoine University of Agriculture. The study used a cross-section research design whereby the data were collected at one time based on two approaches which are qualitative and quantitative. The study involved 100 SUA staff. These were selected from a population of 1308 SUA staff by using purposive, sampling simple random, and systematic random sampling techniques.  Results indicate that the majority of the respondents agreed that the use of SUA–EDMS fostered efficiency in management decisions, and perceive that the use of SUA–EDMS increases accountability. Among all the independent variables, duration at work and rating on effectiveness were found to have a unique contribution to a variation in the perceived usefulness of EDMS. It was concluded that the use of EDMS is very essential for the well-functioning of the organization in terms of faster access to records and which spearheads effective and efficient delivery of services to customers in the organization. The study recommends improving internet speed as one measure to improve the EDMS.
The Application of Operations Research Information System Tools in Hospital Operations Management in Developing Nations
Authors: Kagoya Sumaya, M. , Mushi Allen, R.
Published: August 2023

Hospital services in the developing world are always overwhelmed due to scarce resources compared to the demand from the public. Operations Research provides a set of tools that are very useful in the optimization of resources, hence providing a highly needed service in assuring that, the resources are optimally utilized to save lives and provide better healthcare services. This paper reviews applications of Operations Research information system tools(ORIST) in hospital operations to find ORIST status in developing nations like the East African Region.This study used a systematic literature review method and thematic analysis. Results revealed that there is a lot of OR work about hospital operations in the developing world. However, little has been reported from East Africa. A proposal is presented about research opportunities on hospital operations in East African regions by grouping applications into four areas namely; planning, management, medical practice and prevention. The paper concludes by inviting all stakeholders to cooperate and provide the necessary support to Operations-Research practitioners.
The first attempts made towards the domestication of sea cucumbers in Kenya
Authors: Magondu Esther W. , Holeh Gladys M. , Munguti Jonathan M.
Published: August 2023

The potential for culture of sandfish Holothuria scabra in Kenya was investigated based on a sample of 1000 wild individuals with an average weight of 40-80 g. This experiment was conducted to identify suitable methods of collection, transportation, acclimatization, and growth at different stocking densities. Packing methods tested during collection were oxygen filled plastic bags and open basins. For method 1, Sample 1 sandfishes were carried individually in oxygen filled plastic bags with sea water. Sample 2 included a total of five sandfishes per bag, and Sample 3 had a maximum of ten sandfishes. Under method 2 specimens were transported using open basins containing sand and aerated sea water in densities of 10, 20 and 30 individuals per basin. The mean (±SD) percentage evisceration rate during transportation in method 1 was 0 for a density of 1, 3.33 ± 5.77 % for a density of 5, and 20 ± 10 % for a density of 10. In method 2 evisceration occurred at all the three densities; 23.3 ± 15.28 % for the low density, 23.33 ± 2.8 % for the middle density and 36.6 ± 3.33 % for the higher density. The findings of this study provide information to contribute to the development of marine aquaculture of sea cucumber in Kenya.
Billfish in coastal visual art in Kenya: a resource for ocean science communication
Authors: Kihia Susana W. , Uku Jacqueline , Ater Sarah , Kioko Moses , Kadagi Nelly I. , Wambiji Nina
Published: August 2023

Approaches to marine conservation and management issues has often been limited to using scientific research to propose technical and policy interventions. However, communicating outputs as scientific publications and policy briefs has limited reach and impact for non-academic audiences. Art markets in Mombasa and Kilifi Counties in Kenya were sampled to determine how the creative arts can be used to communicate ocean science. Artwork with terrestrial themes was popular and increasingly available to buyers compared to ocean art. Billfish as a representative species was popular in ocean art culture, underscoring its potential in a niche market for ocean art. Our study highlights opportunities for active collaboration between scientists and artists in communicating messages from scientific work to non-academic audiences. Engagement of Western Indian Ocean countries in the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development will benefit from the use of ocean art in science communication and enhance ocean literacy in the region.
Katedra i Seminarium Historii Kultury na Uniwersytecie Jagiellońskim 1920–1934
Authors: Stinia Maria
Published: August 2023

The centenary of the establishment of the first Department of History of the Polish Culture at the Jagiellonian University is a good opportunity to recall the scientific achievements in this discipline. In Krakow, in the second half of the nineteenth century, research on history of education, literature and culture was conducted at the Academy of Arts and Sciences and at the Jagiellonian University. However, it was not until Stanisław Kot’s scientific activity and his appointment as an associate professor that the chair in History of the Polish Culture at the Jagiellonian University was created in 1920. His seminar on the history of culture had enjoyed significant popularity and was attended by many students. In the years 1925–1939 he promoted 22 doctors and four of his students obtained a habilitation. However, due to the political involvement of Kot, the Sanation authorities decided to abolish his chair by introducing a new law on academic schools in 1933.
Działalność polityczna Adama Kisiela w 1648 roku
Authors: Sytniewski Jakub
Published: August 2023

Adam Kisiel was one of the most important figures in the Khmelnytsky Uprising. Next to the Grand Chancellor of the Crown, Jerzy Ossoliński and Primate Maciej Łubieński, he was considered one of the pillars of the party seeking an agreement with the Cossacks. He believed that the government of Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth should find a place for Cossacks in its structures. At the same time, with the consent of the king and the Great Crown Chancellor, he kept in touch with the Moscow voivodes in order to obtain their military aid against the Crimean Khanate. Afterwards, during the interregnum of 1648, he also tried to persuade Bohdan Khmelnytsky to follow this idea, who initially expressed a desire to reach an agreement with the authorities of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.
Historia Zyndranowej i Barwinka w latach 1830–1936 w świetle diecezjalnych szematyzmów greckokatolickich
Authors: Grzesik Witold
Published: August 2023

The article contains a description of the analysis carried out on the data contained in the annual shematisms (census publications) of the Greek Catholic diocese in Przemyśl, on the example of the parish in Zyndranowa in the years 1830–1936. Subsequent annals contain information concerning, among others, the number of believers, churches and parish priests; as well as the property status of parishes, schools, church and rural institutions. The author conducts a detailed review of these data, referring to the historical, social and economic context. Particular attention was paid to the demo- graphic data. In order to assess the reliability of the source, a comparison of the data with other con- temporary materials was made, including shematisms issued by the government of Galicia and the Roman Catholic Diocese of Przemyśl. The analysis shows a high convergence of data, especially those directly concerning the population, property and financial status of the Greek Catholic parish.
The Effects of Using Digital Stories and Media in Foreign Language Teaching
Authors: Karimova Gulim , Ishanov Pirmagambet , Mukanova Saulesh , Odintsova Svetlana , Aratayeva Aigul
Published: August 2023

In Kazakhstan, as in many other countries, foreign language education starts at an early age, but the desired success is not achieved. This may be due to instructional, environmental or socioeconomic factors, as well as cognitive and psychological factors such as the structure of the language, the teaching methods used, and attitudes towards language learning. In language education, digital story activities can play an effective role in the development of students' vocabulary and language skills. In this study, the effects of digital storytelling on English vocabulary and grammar knowledge and attitudes towards the course were examined. This research was conducted experimentally with 70 students from 5th grade of a primary school in Almaty. In this study, which observed the effects of digital storytelling and traditional teaching approaches on vocabulary knowledge, grammar knowledge and attitudes towards the lesson, an experimental research design with control group was used and data were obtained through tests and scales. The findings of the study showed that digital storytelling activities in the experimental group were effective on students' English vocabulary knowledge, grammar knowledge and attitudes compared to the control group in which traditional teaching was applied.
Remote Heart Diagnostic System
Authors: Miller Emma , Armitage Edward , Aminian Farzan , George Darin , Aminian Ashkan , Aminian Komron , Aminian Mehran
Published: August 2023

For people in remote regions, limited access to specialists like cardiologists can turn treatable conditions into a serious threat. In this work, a heart diagnostic system capable of collecting and analyzing an electrocardiogram (ECG) signal in a remote location and sending the results to be reviewed by a cardiologist is designed and implemented. This system is controlled using a Raspberry Pi 4 microcomputer, with a physical subsystem designed to collect the ECG signal. This signal is utilized to diagnose certain heart conditions using an Artificial Intelligence (AI) based system.  A touchscreen mini-terminal guides the user through collecting and compiling patient data, sending this data to the AI agent for classification, and then storing and transferring the results to another location for further examination. A user-friendly website is implemented to give the health professionals remote access to the collected data. The entire system is housed in a 3-D printed enclosure for protection. It is important to note that the AI system is trained using multiple data sets obtained from Physionet, as the collection of training data using this system is a multiyear project requiring a staff of health professionals, which is beyond the scope of this project.
Basic Criteria for creating a Smart City
Authors: Rzqoo Nawfal Joseph , Fayadh Omer Khalid , Abid Mohammed Talib , AL-Ugaily Maha
Published: August 2023

Nowadays, non-smart cities face challenges such as climate change, population increase versus resource depletion, transportation problems and lifestyle changes, while in the model of smart cities, the urban area can cope with most of these challenges. Although the term smart city is not a fixed term and so far it has not been defined, in other words, there is no standard definition for this term. We can say that a smart city is a developed urban area that produces a sustainable economy. Designing and creating an ideal place for people to live by increasing the quality of life through high optimization of both city components (both soft and hard components) with multiple areas; Governance, Economy, People and the Environment, Mobility and the Built Environment. This article clarifies some of the prominent variables facing most cities in terms of the challenges of the natural environment, the built environment, mobility, and social and economic characteristics that slow down the development wheel towards achieving a better life for the population. Most of these problems and challenges can be solved by drawing up a city development policy based on the principles of the smart cities. This article also develops a scientific approach to explain the concept of smart cities, explains the benefits of applying this model to cities, and suggests a new set of the dominant components of smart cities worldwide.
The Metaphorical Perceptions of Teacher Candidates on the Concept of Spelling
Authors: Bulut Mesut , Kirbas Abdulkadir
Published: August 2023

This research aims to determine teacher candidates’ perceptions of the concept of spelling through metaphors. Phenomenology design, one of the qualitative research designs, was used in the research. The easily accessible sampling method, which is one of the purposive sampling methods, was used to form the study group of the research. The participants of the research are 88 teacher candidates studying at a university in Turkey. In the research, to determine the opinions of teacher candidates on the concept of spelling through metaphors, “spelling … similar/like to; because…” were provided to fill in the blanks in the open-ended question form with the metaphor they wanted. Content analysis was used in the analysis of the obtained data. As a result of the research, it was determined that 74 metaphors in 9 categories were produced by 88 teacher candidates. As a result of the analysis of the findings obtained from the research, the teacher candidates’ concept of spelling; they defined as the rules that ensure the effective, correct, and beautiful use of the language, and enable it to be understood, facilitate the narration, eliminate the confusion of concepts, and which must be followed according to a certain standard in writing. As a result of the research, it was concluded that the teacher candidates’ perceptions of the concept of spelling were positive and their awareness levels were high. In addition, it was determined that teacher candidates expressed the concept of spelling as a systematic, regular, and harmonious composition that adds color and flavor to life, develops intelligence and memory, and emerges as a result of regular studies.
Views of Parents on Digital Parenting Competencies
Authors: Hark Soylemez Nesrin
Published: August 2023

This study was conducted to examine the views of parents on digital parenting competencies and experiences. Phenomenology was chosen as a research design. The study group consisted of 13 parents, selected according to criterion sampling. A semi-structured interview form was used as a data collection tool. Content analysis was used in the analysis of the data. Parents stated that they are most uncomfortable while their children are watching videos and surfing social media. Most parents set a period to reduce the time their children spend with digital technologies. We found that the majority of parents do not accompany their children while using digital technologies, and some children do not want their parents to accompany them. Moreover, majority of parents felt inadequate to protect their children against digital risks, and followed different ways to ensure the safety of their children in digital environments.
The Deficit in Visuo-spatial Working Memory in Dyslexic Population? A Systemic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Du Yujie , Zhang Chenyi
Published: August 2023

Development dyslexia (DD) is a common language disorder, that significantly affects children. Despite having ordinary intelligence, dyslexic people struggle with reading, writing, and comprehension in their native tongue. It is still unclear whether dyslexic kids have difficulties with visuo-spatial working memory. Using meta-analysis, this gap was filled. Applying a Boolean search on Web of Science was necessary to find the pertinent papers. Thirteen studies were analyzed. The average, standard deviation, and sample size for each task were extracted. There were large effect sizes between children with DD and their age-matched peers in terms of their visuo-spatial working memory. The findings imply that visuo-spatial working memory deficiencies in dyslexic children indicate that dyslexia might exhibit domain-general characteristics. We discovered during our research that the type of language used and the testing procedure could have an impact on the test outcomes. Therefore, future research should focus on the type of tasks or language.
Exploring the Effect of Learning Motivation and Self-Regulated Learning Climate on Undergraduates’ Self-Regulated Learning in Higher Education
Authors: Ma Yujie , Guo Wu Yuan
Published: August 2023

Self-regulated learning (SRL) has numerous benefits for students. For this reason, it is necessary to understand what factors can affect SRL. The literature has indicated that many factors can influence SRL as a whole. However, few studies have investigated the relationship between factors that can affect SRL and different phases of SRL. This research aims to investigate the influence of learning motivation and self-regulated learning climate on three phases of SRL (forethought, performance, and self-reflection) in higher education context. Thirteen Chinese undergraduates participated in semi-structured interviews. The results reveal that both learning motivation and self-regulated learning climate have significant impact on forethought, performance, and self-reflection. This study also demonstrates that personality may play a role of mediator in the effect of learning motivation on SRL. The influence of self-regulated learning climate on SRL is related to the level of interaction between teachers and students. These findings can help to further develop undergraduates’ SRL ability.
Unpacking Elementary Preservice Teachers’ Beliefs on Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Mathematics and Science Teaching for English Language Learners
Authors: Min Mina , Whitehead Ashley , Wells Cacey , Akerson Valarie
Published: August 2023

With an increasing number of English Language Learners (ELLs), the landscape of public schools in the United States has been rapidly changing. However, ELLs’ academic performance is consistently lower than their native English-speaking peers’ and many in-service teachers feel ill-prepared to teach ELLs in a culturally and linguistically responsive way. This is especially true for mainstream teachers who teach STEM-related subjects. This study explores how pre-service elementary school teachers perceive culturally and linguistically responsive mathematics and science teaching practices for ELLs. A qualitative research design with interviews and constant comparative analysis was employed. Pre-service teachers’ lively voices that unpack their beliefs on the characteristics of culturally and linguistically responsive math and science teaching are illustrated around teachers’ scaffolding strategies, ELLs’ learning experiences, and environments. Suggestions for teacher educators, education scholars, and practitioners are provided to advance the discourse of how to better prepare teachers to teach mathematics and science to ELLs.
A Letter to My Teacher: Perceptions of Middle School Students and Pre-Service Mathematic Teachers of Their Mentor Teacher
Authors: Celik Demirci Sedef , Baran Kaya Tugba
Published: August 2023

This research was conducted to determine the perceptions of pre-service teachers and middle school students towards mathematics teachers. For this purpose, the perceptions of both the pre-service teachers and students regarding six mathematics teachers were discussed comparatively. The research method is case study. The data of this study were collected through reflective letters of pre-service teachers (f=35) and students of these teachers (f=105) to six middle school mathematics teachers. The collected data were analyzed in the MAXQDA qualitative data analysis program. As a result of the analysis, it was determined that pre-service teachers and middle school students had positive and negative perceptions towards the mentor teacher in the categories of designing the learning-teaching process, attitude and classroom management. When the perceptions of middle school students towards their teachers were examined, it was seen that the positive attitude towards the teacher stanted out. While the students mentioned less about classroom management, it was seen that pre-service teachers talked more about and they were able to evaluate teachers from different perspectives in the context of classroom management. However, it has seen that both pre-service teachers and students have more negative perceptions about the design of the learning-teaching process than positive perceptions. In addition, it was determined that the negative perceptions of the preservice teachers about the mentor teachers standed out, while the students' perceptions of their teachers were more positive.
Preservice Teachers’ Reflections on Learning Number Bases and Teaching Base Ten
Authors: Toker Zerrin , Yazar Koldas Serife
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to reveal the solutions of pre-service teachers to contextual problems related to number bases other than the base ten. Furthermore, it was intended to investigate which issues pre-service teachers discussed about their learning in the problem-solving process, including context, and about student learning in their future teaching practices. To achieve this, task-based interviews were held with 12 pre-service primary school teachers. During semi-structured one-on-one task-based interviews, some questions were asked to reveal pre-service teachers’ way of thinking about the problems and their reflection on the learning. In this context, data were obtained from the audio recordings and the students' written responses. Besides, researchers’ notes are used as supporting documents for the validation of the data collection process. The main findings of the study revealed that context is a facilitator for preservice teachers in understanding number bases other than base ten. They gained insight and provided instructional explanations on how to teach the student by understanding the different number bases. Furthermore, context enabled preservice teachers to reflect on how to teach better by considering their own learning processes.
Investigation of Technological Pedagogical and Content Knowledge (TPACK) Competencies of University Students
Authors: Ozturk Mahmut Sami , Kinik Mustafa , Ozturk Mine Ulku
Published: August 2023

Just as technology has entered every aspect of our lives today, it has significantly changed the fields of art and graphic design as well. Developing technologies and new teaching approaches have also affected fine arts education and therefore the students studying in this field. The aim of this study is to examine the Technological Pedagogical and Content Knowledge (TPACK) competencies of students studying at the Faculty of Fine Arts. The study, which was conducted with the survey model, was conducted with the participation of 212 students studying at the Faculty of Fine Arts of Necmettin Erbakan University and Selçuk University in the 2022-2023 academic year. According to the findings of the study, the TPACK competencies of the students of the Faculty of Fine Arts are at medium level. The technological knowledge of the participant students differs according to their gender. The technological knowledge of male students was found to be significantly higher. In the study, TPACK competencies of the students showed significant differences according to their grade and achievement levels. Students in 3rd and 4th grades were found to have high TPACK competence compared to students in lower grades. Again, students with high achievement level obtained high TPACK scores compared to their middle and low achieving peers.
Implementation and Student Perceptions of OneNote as an Electronic Laboratory Notebook in a General Biology Course
Authors: Nyutu Eva
Published: August 2023

Paper Laboratory Notebooks (PLNs) have been used for centuries to document and archive the thoughts and work of inventors, scientists, students, and engineers. PLNs are the first formal means of scientific communication we teach our students and, in turn, a student’s first training on cultivating and expressing scientific thinking. In the science teaching laboratory, PLNs are at the forefront and serve various purposes for students in the science laboratory curriculum, like good documentation practices and accurate record keeping. This paper discusses the reasons for switching to OneNote ELN, the criteria for selecting OneNote ELN software, how OneNote ELN was introduced and used in the course, and students’ opinions on using this ELN. We successfully implemented the OneNote ELN in our General Biology Laboratory II sequence course for biology majors and non-major students entering the health professions. Students had a generally favorable response to using the OneNote ELN; 98% of students agreed that ELNs enabled them to keep a well-maintained laboratory notebook. Overall, student experience with ELNs was positive, with 85% of students indicating that they would recommend other future science laboratory courses they will be taking to adopt the OneNote ELN. In general, the OneNote ELN was viewed more positively in many respects than the PLNs in ease of its usage, access and organizing the notebook.
STRATEGI PEMBELAJARAN BERBICARA ONE BY ONE ZOOM PLATFORM TERHADAP TINGKAT KECEMASAN BAHASA DAN KETRAMPILAN BERBICARA TARUNA POLTEKBANG SURABAYA
Authors: Rochmawati Laila , Fatmawati Fatmawati , Sukma Meita Maharani
Published: August 2023

Strategi pembelajaran One By One Zoom Platform memiliki potensi besar untuk menanggulangi kecemasan bahasa asing khususnya bahasa inggris dan meningkatkan ketrampilan berbicara berbahasa inggris taruna di Poltekbang Surabaya. Penelitian ini menggunakan strategi pembelajaran One By One Zoom Platform. Namun, sedikit penelitian mengarah pada penelitian kecemasan dan ketrampilan berbahasa ingrris dalam strategi pembelajaran One By One Zoom Platform . Oleh karena itu pertanyaan dari penelitian ini adalah adakah pembeda antara nilai tes kuesioner kecemasan bahasa asing setelah dan sebelum diberikan perlakuan strategi pembelajaran One By One Zoom Platform? adakah pembeda antara nilai tes kuesioner ketrampilan berbicara berbahasa inggris sebelum dan sesudah diberikan perlakuan strategi pembelajaran One By One Zoom Platform?. Lebih lanjut, penelitian ini mencoba membandingkan kecemasan bahasa asing dan ketrampilan berbicara berbahasa inggris taruna setelah mendapat perlakuan strategi pembelajaran One By One Zoom Platform. Hal ini dilakukan dengan melakukan survei kecemasan Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety Scale setelah dan sebelum diberikan perlakuan strategi pembelajaran One By One Zoom Platform. Terakhir, taruna mengikuti test ketrampilan berbicara berbahasa inggris  sebanyak dua kali yaitu setelah dan sebelum diberikan perlakuan strategi pembelajaran One By One Zoom Platform. Penelitian mengidentifikasikan adanya pembeda secara statistik dalam peningkatan ketrampilan berbicara berbahasa inggris. Hal ini berlaku untuk keempat area yang dinilai: kefasihan, pengucapan vokal / konsonan, pengucapan nada, dan akurasi sintaksis. Hal ini menunjukkan bahwa dari strategi pembelajaran One By One Zoom Platform dapat menghasilkan peningkatan kemampuan berbicara. Hasil survei menunjukkan bahwa ada perbedaan statistik terhadap tingkat kecemasan dengan menggunakan strategi pembelajaran One By One Zoom Platform. Sehingga bisa diambil kesimpulan bahwasanya terdapat korelasi hubungan antara setelah dan sebelum diberikan perlakuan strategi pembelajaran One By One Zoom Platform terhadap ketrampilan berbicara berbahasa inggris. Dan terdapat  korelasi antara setelah dan sebelum diberikan perlakuan strategi pembelajaran One By One Zoom Platform dengan kecemasan bahasa.