bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Dietary Fish Oil Levels on Growth Performance, Lipid Metabolism, Hepatic Health, Nonspecific Immune Response, and Intestinal Microbial Community of Juvenile Amur Grayling (Thymallus grubii)
Authors: Lu Shaoxia , Wang Chang’an , Liu Yang , Liu Bing , Zhang Ying , Shi Honghe , Xu Gefeng , Han Shicheng , Liu Hongbai
Published: November 2024

This trial was conducted to assess the effects of different levels of dietary fish oil on growth performance, hepatic health, nonspecific immune responses, and intestinal microbial community of Amur grayling (Thymallus grubii). Five isonitrogenous diets containing 60 (6FO), 90 (9FO), 120 (12FO), 150 (15FO), and 180 g/kg (18FO) fish oil were fed to triplicate groups of 60 fish per tank for 8 weeks, respectively. The results revealed that specific growth rate (SGR) and weight gain (WG) of fish in the 15FO group were significantly greater than those in the 6FO group (p < 0.05). Somatic indices and whole‐body lipid levels were positively correlated with increases in dietary fish oil levels. Trypsin and lipase activities in 15FO and 18FO groups were significantly higher than those in the 6FO and 9FO groups (p < 0.05). The activities of intestinal catalase (CAT) and liver superoxide dismutase (SOD), CAT, lysozyme (LZM), alkaline phosphatase (AKP), and acid phosphatase (ACP) improved significantly as the dietary lipid content increased to 185.3 g/kg and decreased thereafter (p < 0.05). The lipid metabolism‐related genes peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) and carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A (CPT1A) were significantly downregulated and upregulated (p < 0.05), respectively, in the 15FO group. Immune‐related genes in the liver and intestine, such as interleukin (IL‐8), were significantly upregulated in the 15FO group (p < 0.05). The liver sections from 18FO group presented more numerous and larger lipid vacuoles. Both low‐ (6FO) and high‐lipid (18FO) diets reduced the relative abundance of intestinal Lactococcus. The relative abundances of intestinal Staphylococcus and Bacillus (mainly Bacillus anthracis) increased in the low‐lipid diet group and that of Pedobacter increased in the high‐lipid diet group. Second‐order polynomial analysis of WG and the feed conversion ratio (FCR) for varying levels of dietary lipid revealed that a range of 194.76–198.90 g/kg dietary lipid was optimal for the growth and health of Amur grayling.
Evaluation of Seasonal Variations of Human Subjective Responses in China’s Cold Climate Zone
Authors: Yan Haiyan , Gao Jingyuan , Zhao Wei , Liu Congling , Li Sichao , Li Yawei
Published: November 2024

The thermal perception of the human body changes with seasons. The seasonal variation of subjective thermal responses and the separation of thermal sensation and thermal comfort were studied in this paper. A new evaluation index of thermal comfort was proposed. The study was based on field surveys of 32 university students in Jiaozuo city in the cold climate zone of China. Totally, 854 valid datasets were obtained. Results indicated that the environmental parameters, clothing insulation, subjective responses and mean skin temperature were all affected by seasonal variations. The mean skin temperature increased with the rise of indoor air temperature. The influence of season changes on the difference between mean skin temperature and indoor air temperature (Tdif) was obvious. The separation of thermal comfort and thermal sensation was obvious in the four seasons. TSVs deviated 0.76, 1.13, 0.83, and 1.37 units from the thermal neutrality when TCVs were the lowest in the four seasons, respectively. The separations were more obvious in seasons with extreme climates (summer and winter) than in transition seasons with mild climates (spring and autumn). People’s emotion was affected by the thermal environment. The hotness in summer increased “boring” feelings, and the coldness in winter reduced people’s pleasantness. Tdif was proposed as a reflection of human thermoregulation. An optimal Tdif range between 6.0°C and 12.0°C was proposed, in which optimal thermal and emotional conditions were achieved. The study provides a theoretical basis for the seasonal study of human thermal response and the dynamic control of the indoor environment in the future.
Short‐Term Electricity Price Forecasting Using the Empirical Mode Decomposed Hilbert‐LSTM and Wavelet‐LSTM Models
Authors: Shejul Kunal , Harikrishnan R. , Kukker Amit
Published: November 2024

The electricity sector deregulation has led to the formation of short‐term power markets where the consumers can purchase electricity by bidding at the electricity market. The electricity market price is volatile and changes are due to change in electricity demand and the bid price at different span of time during the day. The availability of the electricity price forecast is essential for the electricity market participants to make informed decisions. In this paper, the modified LSTM approach, wavelet‐LSTM, and Hilbert‐LSTM are proposed to predict the electricity price for bidding in the short‐term electricity market. The objective is to improve the precision and adaptability of electricity price predictions by utilizing the temporal dependence identification capability of LSTM and the multiresolution analysis capability of the transforms. The proposed models combine these two effective methods in order to capture both the long‐term trends and short‐term variations present in electricity price time series data. In this approach, the 8‐year dataset is used for training the models, and based on this the day‐ahead price is calculated and compared with the testing data. The proposed techniques show better performance in terms of rank correlation, mean square error, and root mean square error compared to the existing algorithms of LSTM and CNN‐LSTM. The prediction results achieved with wavelet‐LSTM and Hilbert‐LSTM (1‐month dataset of 8 years) are rank correlation 0.9746 and 0.9749, MSE 0.2962 and 0.1363, and RMSE 0.5443 and 0.3692, respectively. The results achieved with the proposed methods are better than the existing forecasting models, and the RMSE for Hilbert‐LSTM and wavelet‐LSTM techniques is improved by 61% and 43%, respectively, compared to the LSTM method. Also, results are calculated for the complete 8 years all 12 months with Hilbert‐LSTM, and the results achieved are rank correlation 0.9645, MSE 0.3876, and RMSE 0.6225. The results achieved with the proposed models are improved in terms of performance parameters compared to the conventional approaches. The proposed models can be used in the day‐ahead electricity price forecasting to bid for electricity accurately in the day‐ahead electricity market.
supplementary figure3 from TAK1 Promotes an Immunosuppressive Tumor Microenvironment through Cancer-Associated Fibroblast Phenotypic Conversion in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Sheng Nan , Shindo Koji , Ohuchida Kenoki , Shinkawa Tomohiko , Zhang Bo , Feng Haimin , Yamamoto Takeo , Moriyama Taiki , Ikenaga Naoki , Nakata Kohei , Oda Yoshinao , Nakamura Masafumi
Published: November 2024

supplementary figure3 from TAK1 Promotes an Immunosuppressive Tumor Microenvironment through Cancer-Associated Fibroblast Phenotypic Conversion in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
PEG-BCT-100 and canavanine synergistically induce apoptosis in arginine biosynthetic enzyme-deficient pancreatic cancer
Authors: Kwong Tsz Tung , Deng Hao Hao , Wong Chi-Hang , Chan Anthony W.H. , Chan Landon Long , Chok Siu-Ho K. , Cheng Paul N. , Chan Stephen
Published: November 2024

Arginine deprivation using arginase emerges as a potential cancer treatment approach, as some cancers have been found to be arginine-auxotrophic, relying on exogenous arginine for their growth. In this study, we evaluated the combination of a pegylated recombinant human arginase (PEG-BCT-100), which is currently undergoing clinical trials with a toxic arginine analog, canavanine in pancreatic cancer. Remarkable synergistic anti-tumor effect was observed both in vitro and in vivo. Specifically, the combination treatment induced apoptotic cell death in pancreatic cancer cells, while normal fibroblast cells remained viable. Our findings also suggested that pancreatic tumors lacking the key enzymes in arginine biosynthesis, argininosuccinate synthetase 1 (ASS1) and ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC) were more susceptible to the treatment. From our in-house cohort and online database analysis, we found that the majority of the pancreatic cancer patients exhibited deficiencies in both ASS1 and OTC enzymes, suggesting that the combination of arginine deprivation and canavanine could be particularly effective in these patients. The ASS1- and OTC-negativity could also serve as predictive biomarkers for the response in other arginine-dependent cancers.
Patient Preferences with Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Treatment for Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Diabetic Macular Edema: A Multinational Discrete Choice Experiment Study
Authors: García-Layana Alfredo , Chi Gloria C. , Kodjikian Laurent , Parravano Mariacristina , Chow David , Jackson Timothy L. , Danzig Carl , Paris Liliana P. , Mirt Mirela , Henry-Szatkowski Mickael , Lewis Hannah B. , Gentile Brittany
Published: November 2024

Introduction: New anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) treatments are emerging for the treatment of diabetic macular edema (DME)/neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). This study aimed to explore the treatment attributes patients find important when deciding on treatment options. Methods: This noninterventional survey study assessed treatment preferences through a discrete choice experiment (DCE) among patients with DME/nAMD in the USA, Canada, France, Italy, Spain, and the UK. The DCE design was informed by a targeted literature review and qualitative interview research and included five treatment attributes: mode of administration, frequency of examinations, frequency of injections or refills, likely change in visual acuity, and eye-related side effects. Conditional logit models were used to analyze the choice data. Results: Overall, 537 patients completed the DCE (DME, n = 173; nAMD, n = 364). Patients reported preferring “injection” over “implant surgery and refills” and better visual outcomes over “stabilization,” which were also the most important attributes driving preference (35.1% and 31.5%, respectively). They also showed a preference for less-frequent treatment and examinations and for “mild-moderate, frequent” over “severe, rare” side effects. These findings were generally consistent across the two conditions, although significant differences were found depending on anti-VEGF treatment duration (nAMD, DME) and number of reported barriers (nAMD). Conclusion: Patient preferences for treatment are driven by several factors. Considering these preferences is essential when designing/introducing new therapies. Individual treatment preferences should be identified and given key consideration when helping patients select from an expanding array of treatment options.
Botulism: An Overlooked Cause of Bulbar Weakness in Intensive Care – A Case Report
Authors: Adams Louise , Lamquet Simon , Linussio Julie , Van Nieuwenhuysen Tom , Vodolazkaia Alexandra , Mukovnikova Marina , Parmentier Heleen , Herdewyn Sarah
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Botulism is a rare but potentially life-threatening syndrome caused by botulinum neurotoxin. The classic presentation of botulism is the acute onset of bilateral cranial neuropathies associated with symmetric descending weakness. The antitoxin is the main therapeutic option for botulism, in addition to supportive care with intubation and mechanical ventilation when necessary. The outcome is usually favorable, with a slow but full neurological recovery. This case presents a difficult diagnosis of the sporadic form of adult intestinal toxemia, with a delayed diagnosis. Case Presentation: We report a 64-year-old patient who presented in a confused state with weakness in the limbs, bilateral ptosis, and dysarthria. Because of disease progression with respiratory compromise, the patient was transferred to the intensive care unit (ICU) and intubated. The diagnosis of botulism was eventually confirmed in the stool 46 days after presentation. By the end of follow-up, the patient still received rehabilitation. The outcome was good, except for the concomitant neurodegenerative disorder with the need for institutionalization at a residential care center. Conclusion: This case report illustrates the difficulties in diagnosing a patient with botulism in the ICU, especially if associated with comorbidities. Delayed diagnosis and misdiagnosis are common because of the rarity of the disease and overlapping signs and symptoms with other neurological diseases. Increasing the awareness of this disease is important to prevent mortality and morbidity.
Hemoperfusion with the HA330/HA380 Cartridge in Intensive Care Settings: A State-Of-The-Art Review
Authors: Li Yupei , Han Mei , Yang Mei , Su Baihai
Published: November 2024

Background: Hemoperfusion with the HA330/HA380 cartridge has markedly evolved during the past decade and has thus been widely used in intensive care settings to treat critical or hyperinflammatory illnesses. Numerous clinical studies have demonstrated that HA330/HA380 hemoperfusion might mitigate systemic inflammatory response syndrome and organ dysfunction in ICU patients by removing inflammatory mediators and metabolic toxins from the blood. However, there is currently lacking a systematic evaluation on the safety and efficacy of HA330/HA380 hemoperfusion in intensive care settings. Summary: We searched the PubMed database, Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, and ClinicalTrials.gov for articles published from inception to June 20, 2024 (updated on September 10, 2024) to perform a state-of-the-art review of HA330/HA380 hemoperfusion in daily critical care practice. We discuss the basic technique characteristics and ex vivo investigations of the HA330/HA380 cartridge and summarize the latest clinical evidence regarding the use of HA330/HA380 hemoperfusion for the treatment of sepsis, severe COVID-19, cardiac surgery, acute pancreatitis, liver failure, and blunt trauma. Ex vivo studies suggest that the HA330/HA380 cartridge demonstrates satisfactory biocompatibility and substantial adsorption capacity for inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-6, interleukin-10, and tumor necrosis factor-α. Small-scale clinical studies indicate that HA330/HA380 hemoperfusion may help reduce plasma levels of inflammatory mediators, alleviate organ dysfunction, and improve survival in some critically ill patients with sepsis, severe COVID-19, acute pancreatitis, and blunt trauma. Key Messages: (i) The HA330/HA380 cartridge contains abundant, coated, biocompatible sorbent beads made of styrene-divinylbenzene copolymers. (ii) HA330/HA380 hemoperfusion, with or without combined continuous renal replacement therapy, is a promising treatment option for some critically ill patients by removing proinflammatory mediators and alleviating organ dysfunction. (iii) The HA330/HA380 cartridge may adversely adsorb antibiotics, and appropriate antibiotic dosing adjustment and plasma drug level monitoring is recommended. (iv) There are currently numerous ongoing clinical trials evaluating the safety and efficacy of HA330/HA380 hemoperfusion in critically ill patients who develop sepsis or undergo cardiopulmonary bypass, which will certainly sharpen our future practice of HA330/HA380 hemoperfusion in ICU.
The prevalence and changes of alcohol consumption across three trimesters of pregnancy assessed by ethyl glucuronide concentration in maternal hair and self-reports: a cross-sectional study.
Authors: Okulicz-Kozaryn Katarzyna , Marchei Emilia , Helwich Ewa , Rutkowska Magdalena , Maciejewski Tomasz M. , Gumuła Patrycja , Januszaniec-Piotrowska Aleksandra , Bójko Martyna , Radiukiewicz Katarzyna , Dzielska Anna , Pichini Simona
Published: November 2024

Introduction: The teratogenic effect of alcohol is well known, but its prevalence is usually underestimated. This study presents the findings of a cross-sectional study conducted in Poland, which aimed to assess the prevalence and changes in alcohol consumption during pregnancy. The study utilized ethyl glucuronide concentration in maternal hair and self-reports as measures to evaluate alcohol intake across the three trimesters of pregnancy.
Methods: The study involved postpartum women (n=150) and their babies. Hair samples from 135 participants allowed segmental analysis (separately for the three trimesters) and hair from 15 were analysed for the entire 9 moths by gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Survey data included self-reports of health related behaviours and socio-demographic characteristics; medical records - information on the course of a pregnancy and newborns health.
Results: Standard medical interview revealed no cases of alcohol use during pregnancy. The analysis of EtG indicated 50.3% women had been drinking alcohol at any time during pregnancy, including 10% with excessive alcohol consumption. Most participants maintained the same level of alcohol consumption throughout the pregnancy but 8.7% women decreased and 20.7% increased the amount of alcohol consumed between 1st and 2nd or 2nd and 3rd trimester. Gestational consumption of alcohol was not related to sociodemographic characteristics, course of pregnancy and self-reported health behaviours but babies of women who drunk alcohol during pregnancy were more often small for gestation age than babies of abstainers (OR=6.008), with the highest risk observed in case of increased alcohol consumption (OR=12,348).
Conclusions: Maternal hair analysis is useful in detecting pregnancy alcohol use and allows retrospective analysis over a longer period than other biological samples, providing a more comprehensive pattern of use throughout pregnancy. However, there is a need to improve routine methods of interviewing patients about alcohol use and to implement effective preventive strategies regarding alcohol consumption during pregnancy in Poland.
A Meta-Analysis of Proton Pump Inhibitor Exposure and the Risk of Adverse Outcomes in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Zhang Qiufeng , Lou Dandi , Zhang Yueming , Xu Anyi , Fang Yingying , Zhou Xiaoshuai
Published: November 2024

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the association between proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) exposure and adverse outcomes in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Methods: According to the guidelines outlined in the PRISMA and Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE), we conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and the Cochrane Library databases for relevant cohort and case-control studies comparing the incidence of adverse outcomes between IBD patients exposed to PPIs and those not exposed, from the inception of the databases to April 2024. The primary adverse outcomes analyzed included hospitalization and surgery. Results: Five studies, encompassing nearly 100,000 subjects, were included in this meta-analysis. The findings indicated that IBD patients exposed to PPIs had a significantly higher incidence of adverse outcomes compared to those not exposed (odds ratio [OR] = 1.24, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.07–1.44, p = 0.004), although it was low-quality evidence. This increased risk was observed in both ulcerative colitis (OR = 1.38, 95% CI = 1.04–1.83, p = 0.025) and Crohn’s disease (OR = 1.14, 95% CI = 1.02–1.29, p = 0.025). Additionally, the incidence of surgery was higher in IBD patients with PPI exposure (OR = 1.31, 95% CI = 1.02–1.68). However, the OR for hospitalization did not show a statistically significant difference (OR = 1.43, p = 0.244). Moreover, the use of glucocorticoids was more frequent among patients exposed to PPIs (OR = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.06–1.28, p = 0.001). Conclusion: PPI exposure may be associated with an increased risk of adverse outcomes in IBD patients, particularly a higher rate of surgery. Limited by various factors, the evidence is considered low quality.
Blended learning in mathematic: the fusion of GeoGebra and Edmodo for enhanced problem-solving abilities
Authors: Nasrullah Anton , Aminah Mimih , Umalihayati Umalihayati , Rahmadani Kurniati , Widodo Sri Adi , Husni Mohamad
Published: November 2024

This research investigates the effectiveness of problem-based mathematics learning through blended learning with the help of Edmodo and GeoGebra in improving problem-solving skills in mathematics learning. The primary motivation of this research is to develop a learning approach that can overcome challenges in solving mathematical problems. The method used in this study used a quantitative approach, and a quasi-experimental pre-test and post-test control group design was applied. This study involved 72 students in two semesters from a university in Banten, Indonesia, with 36 students in the experimental class (11 male and 25 female) and 36 in the control class (10 male and 26 female). Data was collected through problem-solving tests before and after the learning intervention—data analysis using paired t-tests and independent t-tests. The group using Edmodo-GeoGebra (BL-UEG) and the group Edmodo without GeoGebra (BL-EWG) experienced an increase in the moderate category. In conclusion, problem-based mathematics learning through blended learning with the help of Edmodo and GeoGebra can be an effective alternative learning model for improving students’ problem-solving abilities in mathematics. Therefore, this approach deserves further exploration in learning settings.
Influence of digital leadership on Malaysian public university branding: professionals’ identity as mediator
Authors: Wan Yakob Wan Rosni , Don Yahya
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this study was to identify the influence of digital leadership on the professional identity and branding of public university education programs in Malaysia. A quantitative method was chosen in this study by using simple random sampling. The study population was 13,804 people, while the study sample was 476 students of education programs at Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM), Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) and Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) involved. Data was analyzed using IBM-SPSS-Amos version 24. The results of the analysis show the digital leadership has an impact on professional identity and branding of public university education programs in Malaysia. In fact, professional identity are also partial mediators between the relationship between digital leadership and branding. The findings of this study are perceived to have the potential to impact the variable models of the study and represent one of the early research endeavors in this field, serving as a foundation for future studies. In addition, the results of this study are expected to provide new input to university management, stakeholders and investors to be used as a guide during the digital transformation process carried out on campus.
Students’ metacognitive activities in contextual mathematical problem solving
Authors: Wangguway Yustinus , Nusantara Toto , Sudirman Sudirman , Susiswo Susiswo
Published: November 2024

Metacognition is essential in supporting students’ academic success, problem-solving abilities, and overall achievement. Therefore, this study aimed to provide a detailed description of metacognitive activities of students when engaging in contextual mathematical problem-solving. The participants comprised 11th-grade students from SMA Negeri 3 Jayapura, Papua Province, Indonesia. Descriptive and qualitative methods were adopted, and the data were collected using various test instruments and interview guidelines. Subsequently, the data were analyzed through the phases of reduction, presentation, as well as conclusions, and triangulation methods were used to ensure robustness and reliability. The results showed that metacognitive awareness occurred when students considered previous knowledge and experiences in solving contextual mathematical problem. Metacognitive evaluation activities occurred when relevant methods and steps were assessed, while metacognitive regulation manifested when contemplating the actions required to solve problem. This showed that students used various metacognitive activities, namely awareness, evaluation, and regulation, to address contextual mathematical problem.
Modeling blockchain technology in assessment management: the initial readiness investigation
Authors: Shuhaimi Joharri , Awang Hapini , Al-Mashhadani Abdulrazak F. Shahatha , Jafar Mohd Fairuz , Mansor Nur Suhaili
Published: November 2024

The implementation of the school-based assessment (SBA) came with a system as part of the effort to reduce the workload of teachers in managing the SBA. However, a traditional system is costly and heavily centralized, frequently leading to impediments, delays, irregularities and may even create opportunities for dishonest activities. To enhance the existing traditional system, integrating emerging blockchain technology (BC) is proposed. Given the challenges, complaints, and rejection faced by traditional assessment management systems, this paper presents a conceptual framework based on the technology acceptance model (TAM) and diffusion of innovation (DOI) to examine pre-university teachers’ perception of implementation and readiness to adopt BC-based project paper management (BPPM) which is subsequently verified through a qualitative study. This study employs a process that consists of three main steps: a thorough review of existing literature, thematic analysis, and the process of gathering and determining readiness factors. Teachers’ perspectives were successfully gathered from 59 pre-university teachers by posting semi-structured questions in a Telegram group of Malaysian pre-university teachers. The study found that most pre-university teachers support the BPPM implementation with the condition that the system can address two primary concerns: server scalability and confidentiality issues. The effectiveness of BPPM implementation depends on its capacity to meet user needs and expectations while delivering clear benefits, along with superiority compared with existing systems.
Augmented reality board game in promoting financial literacy among Malaysia secondary school students
Authors: Khoo Yin Yin , Siraj Saedah , Mohd Noor Mohd Asri , Yoke Seng Wong , Ramdan Mohamad Rohieszan , Abd. Hadi Fatimah Salwah
Published: November 2024

About two third of working millennials have not saved and only 5% of millennials have enough saving. This study aimed the aim of the study is to promote financial literacy among secondary students using board games. Besides that, this study also focuses to enhance students’ financial planning skills after using the board game. On the other hand, this study also investigates whether there is any gender difference between male and female students. The study employs the survey design. A total of 235 secondary school students aged between 15-16 years old from three different states in Malaysia was taken as samples in this study. A board game with augmented reality named FinPlan was used in this study. The study found that there was no difference between test score of financial literacy among male and female. However, there were significant between personal financial planning, practices, and interest towards financial literacy. Female students were outperformed than male students in each criteria. Conceptually, this study contributes to the development of the board game in financial literacy and give insight to the potential of mobile application with augmented reality. This learning method allows students to learn the daily situation that happen such as rewards, penalties and life event. It also brings a message to students, many daily activities that we need to spend money rather than saving the money; therefore, the students must plan the money properly.
Mapping research on peace education: the bibliometric analysis for research agenda in the future
Authors: Saputra Wahyu Nanda Eka , Rohmadheny Prima Suci , Hidayah Nur , Handayani Trikinasih , Supriyanto Agus , Agungbudiprabowo Agungbudiprabowo
Published: November 2024

This study aims to analyze the trend of scientific publications with the theme of peace education. This study uses bibliometric analysis to describe trends in peace education research and reveal its bibliometric profile. The data was taken from the Scopus database covering 1961 to 2023 with the keywords “peace education” and “violence.” The results of the analysis show that there is a positive trend toward an increase in publications with the theme of peace education. The most prominent country that contributes to peace educationthemed publications is the United States. The University of Toronto and the University of Kwazulu-Natal are the most famous universities that publish research results on peace education. The Journal of Peace Education is the favorite journal for publication on the theme of peace education. Vaughn Mitchell John and Johan Galtung are prominent names who have influenced publications on peace education. Potential themes regarding peace education are discussed in this paper. This research contributes to analyzing structure, trends, collaboration opportunities, and research roadmaps as a basis for future research.
Integrating ethnoscience in inquiry-creative learning: a new breakthrough in enhancing critical thinking
Authors: Harjono Ahmad , Verawati Ni Nyoman Sri Putu , Wahyudi Wahyudi , Gummah Syifa'ul , Prayogi Saiful
Published: November 2024

Incorporating knowledge of culture and local wisdom values (ethnosciences) into scientific investigation is a new breakthrough in the current study. The integration of ethnosciences and scientific investigation is a valuable pathway that serves not only as a tool for acquiring new knowledge but also for developing critical thinking (CT) skills essential in solving real-world problems. This research aims to enhance CT skills among prospective science teachers (PSTs) through a teaching program that integrates ethnosciences with inquiry-creative learning. This particular investigation employs a mixed method approach, combining both quantitative and qualitative methods. The quantitative study utilized a randomized pretest-posttest control group design, with traditional expository teaching employed as the comparison group. Qualitative methods were specifically used in this study through semi-structured interviews with lecturer, particularly regarding the PSTs’ engagement in the implementation of learning program. CT skill tests and interview forms were used as data collection instruments. The study findings reveal that integrating ethnosciences with inquiry-creative learning has a significant effect on the development of CT skills compared to traditional instruction. The findings highlight the effectiveness of this approach in improving CT skills among PSTs and contribute to future research in the field of science education.
Cognitive restructuring as a panacea for maladaptive behaviors among primary school children
Authors: Bisong Nonso Ngozika , Ntamu Blessing Agbo , Undelikwo Veronica Akwenabuaye
Published: November 2024

This study investigated the efficacy of cognitive restructuring as a panacea for maladaptive behaviors among primary school children in Calabar Municipal, Cross River State, Nigeria. The study was a quasi-experimental study using a pre-test-post-test experimental design. Data were collected from pupils in primary four. Data was collected over twelve weeks. The mean and standard deviation of the pre-and post-test scores were calculated and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to determine the differences in the two scores. There were 39 students recruited for the study. The study found that maladaptive behaviors such as aggression and disobedience were pervasive among primary school pupils in Calabar. Notably, the findings indicated that cognitive restructuring had a statistically significant impact on reducing aggressive behavior, though its influence on disobedient behavior was not as pronounced. The paper concluded that cognitive restructuring is an effective intervention strategy for addressing maladaptive behaviors among primary school pupils. The intervention achieved its intended goal of improving children’s behavior and provided a framework for more sustainable behavior management strategies.
A needs analysis on challenges in English expository writing among English as a second language learners
Authors: Zakaria Noorfatin , Sulaiman Nur Ainil
Published: November 2024

Effective communication in English, particularly in writing, is becoming increasingly important globally. Despite being exposed to all four language skills, English as a second language (ESL) learners regularly perceive writing to be the most difficult element. This stance is held by both the English education system and ESL students in Malaysia, highlighting the importance of writing as an important language skill that is difficult to acquire. With expository writing is seen to be the least researched genre, this research seeks to fill this gap by examining the challenges ESL learners face in writing expository essays to provide potential classroom solution to improve their writing skill in this genre. A questionnaire was administered to 68 Form Four ESL learners as part of this study to gather essential data. The collected data underwent analysis using descriptive statistics with the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS Ver. 27). The results were then presented in frequencies, percentages and the overall mean score. The findings revealed that respondents are still struggling with content development and organization as well as the writing process. Therefore, adding more interactive and student-centered learning approaches to ESL writing lessons could help students’ writing skills.
A scientometric review of digital competency among educators during the past 10 years
Authors: Mohd Rosli Nur Dania , Md Khambari Mas Nida , Wong Su Luan , Zakaria Noor Syamilah , Abdullah Kamilah , Hamzah Siti Raba’ah , Moses Priscilla , Abdrahim Nur Aira
Published: November 2024

This study interest in examining the digital competency of educators in educational institutions. Digital competency is of utmost importance in today’s technologically advanced society due to the pervasiveness of technology not only in the classroom but also in our daily lives. This study analyzed 1,189 journal articles from the Scopus database based on bibliographic coupling and co-word analysis using bibliometric analysis. The period of time covered by the study was from 2013 to 2022. Findings indicated that there has been an increase in the number of studies concentrating on digital competency among educators, with this increase becoming more pronounced during the COVID-19 outbreak. Significant themes emerged in relation to educators’ digital competence, particularly concerning the significance and global impact of these characteristics. Bibliographic coupling yields five clusters for current research, whereas coword analysis yields four clusters for predicting future trends. As a result, some suggestions were made with the intention of contributing to the relevant research community based on study’s findings.
The impact of continuous teacher training based on the flipped classroom on teaching practices and learner performance
Authors: Zahra Amad , Soumia Tamani , Mohamed Radid
Published: November 2024

The study presents the contribution of in-service teacher training based on the flipped classroom on teaching practices and on learner performance. To meet the objective of this research, an experiment was carried out on a sample of five college teachers of two different subjects and 200 learners divided into two groups (experimental and control). The study used teacher observation before and after the training, two evaluative tests with the learners and a questionnaire with the learners at the end of the experiment. We collected the data, analyzed it, then presented and interpreted the results. The results show that the flipped classroom has a positive impact on teachers’ teaching practices and learners’ performance.
Correlation between learning style, gender, and university location toward environmental problem-solving skills
Authors: Sari Rima Meilita , Ridhwan Ridhwan , Sahudra Tengku Muhammad , Urfan Faiz
Published: November 2024

Environmental degradation in technological development is accelerating. Therefore, it requires environmental problem-solving skills. This study is aimed to determine university students’ learning style and skill to solve environmental problems based on gender and university location. In addition, this study also aims to find the correlation between learning styles, gender, and university location towards environmental problem-solving skills. The population of this study was the university student in Indonesia. This study employed a descriptive and correlational study. The researchers used the VARK test to find out the learning style. Meanwhile, the data on the environmental problem-solving skills collected by using a validated and tried out test instrument that refers to indicators from Ridhwan. The results of this study showed that the students’ learning styles tended to be visual at 50.49%. The environmental problem-solving skill was in the low category with an average score of 41.47. There was no any correlation between learning styles and gender with the ability to solve environmental problems, but in variable of university location, there was a significant correlation. This is because university differences are closely related to location differences and have an impact on access to learning facilities.
GeneXPress card: development and evaluation of educational card game for DNA transcription subtopics in genetics
Authors: Amani Norizan Nurfarizah , Abu Bakar Adibah , Saidin Syazwan
Published: November 2024

Understanding deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) transcription poses a substantial challenge in studying genetics, often due to lack of understanding and traditional teaching methods that fail to engage students. This study introduces GeneXPress, an innovative card game, aimed at enhancing the learning experience of DNA transcription for higher education biology students. Using the ADDIE model, this preliminary study assessed the usability of the GeneXPress card game through a survey of 169 biology education students at Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris, Malaysia. A quantitative approach was employed to analyze the survey data, evaluating the game’s usability using descriptive statistics, including mean scores and standard deviations. The findings reveal high usability and positive views of GeneXPress, covering various aspects such as goals, design, components and organization, playability and usefulness, with average scores of above 3.79. The positive perception of GeneXPress among students highlights its ability to engage and motivate learners, making the study of complex genetic concepts more accessible and enjoyable. In conclusion, it underscores the vital role of innovative teaching aids in enhancing student engagement and understanding, paving the way for future explorations into educational tools that cater to the evolving needs of learners and educators alike.
Graduate students’ work status, perception, and online satisfaction predicting in-person instruction intention
Authors: Penuela Ayesha Calmerin , Oducado Ryan Michael Flores
Published: November 2024

Along with easing COVID-19 restrictions, schools are reopening and starting face-to-face classes. Intending in-person instruction after a relatively long period after off-campus and online learning requires exploration. This study determined the factors that predict students’ intention to attend in-person instruction among graduate students. The responses of 178 college of education graduate students were gathered electronically using valid and reliable survey instruments. Findings showed that graduate students are moderately to highly satisfied with online learning but also highly intend to attend in-person instruction. The majority of graduate students think that it is unsafe and possible to spread COVID-19, and felt worried to less worried when school reopens. Multiple regression revealed that work status, perceived safety and worry about school reopening, and online learning satisfaction predicted intention to attend in-person instruction. School administrators should ensure the safety operation of schools should students return to campuses, especially when there are threats to their health and security.
The effects of design-based art activities on students’ spatial thinking skills
Authors: Dilmaç Sehran , Dilmaç Oğuz
Published: November 2024

This study was conducted to determine the effects of design-based learning (DBL) on students’ spatial thinking skills in architectural design education. Spatial thinking skills are of great importance in the architectural design process for architecture students to perceive and comprehend both the surrounding architectural spaces and the architectural product they design from different dimensions and perspectives. In order to gain this skill, DBL approaches based on a cooperative learning approach, which allow students to actively participate in the learning process, were applied. It was tested whether the DBL approach would increase students’ spatial thinking skills and develop skills, such as visual structuring skills, creativity, multidimensional and abstract thinking skills, imagination, problem solving, and multi-function execution. The research model is a pre-test-post-test control group quasi-experimental design. Data were obtained using the spatial thinking skills test. Based on the findings obtained as a result of the research, it was determined that the DBL approach applied in the color and texture course was effective on the spatial thinking skills of 2nd-year architecture students.
Students’ perspectives on application of AI-powered technology in learning English pronunciation: a case of reading progress
Authors: Thuan Pham Duc , Hong Hanh Nguyen Thi
Published: November 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly dominating several aspects of human existence, including the realm of English pronunciation instruction. Reading progress is an AI-driven application created by Microsoft in Microsoft Teams to aid language learners in honing their pronunciation skills. Nevertheless, there is a scarcity of research accessible about this use. The objective of this research is to examine students’ assessments of the tool’s effectiveness in facilitating the acquisition of English pronunciation. This study used a questionnaire consisting of five questions, created using Google Forms, to collect data from 123 students who are enrolled in different English classes at a university located in northern Vietnam. The focus of the research is on the students’ pronunciation skills. The study results suggest that learners have a favorable opinion of and see reading progress as a valuable tool for honing their pronunciation skills. This outcome enhances the body of research on the implementation of reading progress in the context of teaching English pronunciation in Vietnam and globally. Thus, learners and English instructors may consult and implement it in order to enhance the efficiency of learning and teaching.
Personality types persistency, occupational consistency, and occupational satisfaction of graduates
Authors: Waruita Ann Gathigia , Gitonga Ciriaka Muriithi , Atitwa Edwin Benson
Published: November 2024

Personality type affects career path and can determine an individual’s job satisfaction or dissatisfaction after graduation. In Kenya, high graduate unemployment has forced many to seek jobs unrelated to their qualifications or personalities. The purpose of the current study was to examine persistency of Holland’s personality types, mediating effect of consistency of career choices, and the degree of occupational satisfaction, informed by Holland’s theory. Longitudinal cohort research design was adopted, to access participants involved in a study conducted in 2012, from which 76 participants were accessed and provided required data. Data was collected using Holland’s self-directed search 4th edition questionnaire and an interview schedule. Spearman’s rank correlation was used to determine correlation between persistency of personality types and occupational satisfaction. Logistic regression was used to check the mediating effects of consistency on the relationship between personality types and occupational satisfaction. Results of the study indicate that there was a positive significant relationship between persistency of personality types and occupational satisfaction at p<0.05; mediating effect of consistency on the relationship between personality types and occupational satisfaction was statistically significant at (β=0.254, p<0.05). This study highlights the importance of persistency of personality types and consistency of career choices in ensuring occupational satisfaction.
Renal Proximal Tubule Cell-Specific Megalin Deletion Does Not Affect Atherosclerosis But Induces Tubulointerstitial Nephritis in Mice Fed a Western Diet
Authors: Amioka Naofumi , Franklin Michael K. , Kukida Masayoshi , Zhu Liyuan , Moorleghen Jessica J. , Howatt Deborah A. , Katsumata Yuriko , Mullick Adam E. , Yanagita Motoko , Martinez-Irizarry Michelle M. , Sandoval Ruben M. , Dunn Kenneth W. , Sawada Hisashi , Daugherty Alan , Lu Hong S.
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Pharmacological inhibition of megalin (also known as LRP2 [low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein-2]) attenuates atherosclerosis in hypercholesterolemic mice. Since megalin is abundant in renal proximal tubule cells (PTCs), the purpose of this study was to determine whether PTC-specific deletion of megalin reduces hypercholesterolemia-induced atherosclerosis in mice.

METHODS:

Female
Lrp2
f/f mice were bred with male
Ndrg1
-
Cre ERT2
+/0 mice to develop PTC-LRP2 +/+ and PTC-LRP2 −/− littermates. To study atherosclerosis, all mice were bred to an LDL (low-density lipoprotein) receptor −/− background and fed a Western diet to induce atherosclerosis.

RESULTS:

PTC-specific megalin deletion did not attenuate atherosclerosis in LDL receptor −/− mice in either sex. Serendipitously, we discovered that PTC-specific megalin deletion led to interstitial infiltration of CD68+ cells and tubular atrophy. The pathology was only evident in male PTC-LRP2 −/− mice fed a Western diet but not in mice fed a normal laboratory diet. Renal pathologies were also observed in male PTC-LRP2 −/− mice in an LDL receptor +/+ background fed the same Western diet, demonstrating that the renal pathologies were dependent on diet and not on hypercholesterolemia. In contrast, female PTC-LRP2 −/− mice had no apparent renal pathologies. In vivo multiphoton microscopy demonstrated that PTC-specific megalin deletion dramatically diminished ALB (albumin) accumulation in PTCs within 10 days of Western diet feeding. RNA-sequencing analyses demonstrated the upregulation of inflammation-related pathways in the kidney.

CONCLUSIONS:

PTC-specific megalin deletion does not affect atherosclerosis but leads to tubulointerstitial nephritis in mice fed a Western diet, with severe pathologies in male mice.