bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Study on the Radiation Shielding Performance of B2O3-SiO2-TeO2-Bi2O3-ZnO-BaO Glass Systems Containing Europium (III) Oxide
Authors: D’Souza Ashwitha Nancy , Yasmin Sabina , Aloraini Dalal Abdullah , Almuqrin Aljawhara H. , Elsafi Mohamed , Sayyed M. I. , Kamath Sudha D.
Published: July 2023

The radiation shielding abilities of Europium Oxide doped Bismuth Tellurium Barium Zinc Borosilicate glasses were investigated in this study. Five glass samples, denoted as BiTeEu-0, BiTeEu-1, BiTeEu-2, BiTeEu-3, and BiTeEu-4, were assessed to determine their effectiveness in shielding against incident photon energies of 356, 662, 1173, and 1332 KeV. The glass composition was 12B2O3–16SiO2-xEu2O3-(40-x)TeO2−12Bi2O3−12ZnO-8BaO, where x ranged from 0 to 4 mol%. In order to assess the effectiveness of the prepared glass systems as radiation shields, several numerical parameters were experimentally measured. These parameters included the linear attenuation coefficient (LAC) and other relevant factors. In order to validate the experimental setup, the LAC values were determined theoretically using WinXCOM software. This provided an opportunity to compare the experimental results with the theoretical values, allowing for the accuracy of the measurements to be assessed. The theoretical and experimental LAC values were identical, indicating the reliability of the experimental setup. A declining trend was found for the value of mean free path (MFP) as - BiTeEu-0 (0 mol% Eu2O3) > BiTeEu-1 (1 mol% Eu2O3) > BiTeEu-2 (2 mol% Eu2O3) > BiTeEu-3 (3 mol% Eu2O3) > BiTeEu-4 (4 mol% Eu2O3) from energy 0.06 MeV to 1.332 MeV. Results showed that the incorporation of higher amounts of Eu2O3 into the current glass systems resulted in a reduction in the value of half value layer (HVL) and mean free path (MFP), but an increase in the radiation protection efficiency. The study found that among the researched glass samples, the sample BiTeEu-4 [12B2O3−16SiO2−4Eu2O3−36TeO2−12Bi2O3−12ZnO-8BaO] provided the best radiation protection efficiency from 0.06 MeV to 1.33 MeV energy range.
Electrochemical Performance of a Spatially Distributed ECPrOx Reactor
Authors: Peña Arias Ivonne Karina , Hanke-Rauschenbach Richard , Sundmacher Kai
Published: July 2023

In this contribution a spatially distributed Electrochemical Preferential Oxidation (ECPrOx) reactor is evaluated and the influence of the temperature, CO inlet concentration, feed flow rate and relative humidity on the polarization curve, the local current distribution and the CO outlet concentration, selectivity and conversion are investigated. For that, six different cases are studied under galvanostatic and potentiostatic operation. For Galvanostatic operation, it was observed that depending on the operation conditions, the bifurcation point as well as the frequency and amplitude of the oscillations can be modified. Additionally, several spatiotemporal profiles of the local current density were found. For potentiostatic operation, the spatiotemporal profiles are constant with time, however they are affected by the anode overvoltage. Finally, after the bifurcation point, the temporal averaged anode overvoltage and the CO outlet concentration is always lower for galvanostatic control.
Robust Visual Object Tracking Based on Feature Channel Weighting and Game Theory
Authors: Ma Sugang , Zhao Bo , Hou Zhiqiang , Yu Wangsheng , Pu Lei , Zhang Lei
Published: July 2023

Although the discriminative correlation filter‐ (DCF)‐based tracker improves tracking performance, some object representation issues can still be further optimized. On the one hand, the DCF tracker’s deep convolutional features contain many noisy channels, and assigning the same weights to multiple channels cannot distinguish the importance of different channels. On the other hand, a simple weighted fusion approach cannot fully utilize the benefits of different feature types. We propose a visual object tracking algorithm based on adaptive channel weighting and feature game fusion to solve these problems. In this study, an adaptive channel weighting strategy is designed to assign suitable weights to each channel based on the average energy ratio of the target and background regions in the feature channels and prune the channels with low weights to improve feature robustness and reduce computational complexity. Simultaneously, the game theory concept is introduced in the multifeature fusion. The handcrafted features are combined with shallow and deep convolutional features according to feature complementarity. Then, the two combined features are seen as two sides of the game, continuously gamed during the tracking process to generate a feature model with a higher representation capacity. Extensive experiments are conducted on four mainstream visual tracking benchmark datasets, including OTB2015, VOT2018, LaSOT, and UAV123. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm performs outstandingly compared to the state‐of‐the‐art trackers.
Teachers’ perspectives on technology-based learning for the kindergarten students
Authors: Rustan Nur Afifah , Yudi Cahyono Bambang , Junaid Rusdiana
Published: July 2023

Ever since the pandemic occured, almost every sector utilize technology to accommodate learning. To tackle every possibility that may interfere the learning process, perspectives in using technology from teachers needed to be taken into account. Thereofore, the needs of finding the perspecives of teachers in teaching and learning especially in kindergarten are crucial since they are still new to the settings. Qualitative research design was applied through Google Form as the media to reach the participants. In collecting the data, the participants were asked about the use of the technology in the teaching and learning process using English as the language of instruction. This research involved eight teachers (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8) of English for young learners in three different schools. Results revealed that there were four main themes which indicated the use of technology in teaching in the kindergarten students, namely: i) Technology motivates children to learn; ii) Technology effects children’s health; iii) Technology is an optional medium; and iv) Suitable application are needed for better learning. These findings can be useful for the present and future stakeholders of kindergarten schools especially in the use of information and communication technology (ICT) in the teaching of English as a foreign language (EFL) at kindergarten settings.
Problem-based learning methods: Is it effective for developing madrasa teacher social competence in teaching?
Authors: Tambak Syahraini , Marwiyah Siti , Sukenti Desi , Husti Ilyas , Zamsiswaya Zamsiswaya
Published: July 2023

Developing social competence of madrasa teachers is increasingly popular in the classroom, but of these teachers, mixed results (without clear reasons) are reported. This study aims to see if increasing the use of problem-based learning (PBL) by madrasa aliyah or senior high school teachers in Indonesia increases their social competency in education. This study employed a quasi-experimental technique and data from PBL intervention program to investigate how PBL is connected with teacahers’ social competency and was analyzed using a t-test. In general, the social competence of madrasa teachers is solely treated as a predictor of the practice of teaching Islamic religious education. Still, we discovered that the greater use of PBL in learning can favorably affect the social competence of madrasa teachers. PBL is positively associated with student involvement and teaching in learning among the madrasa teacher social competency subscales. However, according to data analysis, students’ favorable responses to Islamic religious education learning practices can moderate the link between PBL and the social competency of madrasa instructors. This study has significance for the PBL model’s growth in strengthening the social competency of madrasa teachers learning Islamic religious education.
An assessment on the skills in social studies course curriculum in Turkey
Authors: Alaca Eray
Published: July 2023

The needs of individuals are increasing and diversifying in the rapidly changing world. Individuals cannot continue their lives in society through the only theoretical knowledge, and they also use the skills they have gained. In this regard, the social studies course has an important function in terms of where and how the skills will be used. The fact that the nature of the social studies course is a course in which the theoretical and practical information that prepares students for life are provided, has made it important to teach the skills in the social studies course compared to other courses. In this study, the skills included in the social studies course curriculum in Turkey were examined. In the study, it was observed that the skills were not directly included in the curriculum implemented until 2005. Therefore, the study was limited to the skills included in the social studies course curriculum implemented since 2005. In this study in the case study design, document analysis was applied, and the findings were subjected to descriptive analysis. Thus, it is purposed to reveal the change and transformation by determining the skills added and removed in the social studies course curriculum.
Effectiveness of literacy and numeracy in commerce subjects among secondary schools in Fiji
Authors: Singh Devashna , Chand Satish Prakash , Kumar Khemendra Kamal , Ali Runaaz
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the students’ efficacy in literacy and numeracy skills in commerce subjects in secondary schools in Fiji. Focus group discussions and semi-structured interviews were used to gather relevant data. The findings show that literacy and numeracy skills are essential in commerce subjects, as students require basic literacy and numeracy skills to read, write, comprehend, calculate, and interpret. The findings also showed that parental engagement at an early stage of the child’s life helps improve the child’s literacy and numeracy skills. The results also showed that the “drop everything and read” or DEAR programme and modern technology positively affect students’ literacy and numeracy skills, which helps them do better in commerce classes.
The Relationship Between Use of Gadgets and Sleep Quality on Nursing Students
Authors: Andri Nugraha  , Santi Santi Rinjani , Aceng Ali  , Erwin Pardiansyah
Published: July 2023

Introduction: The proliferation of information and communication technology, particularly handheld electronic devices, has resulted in a significant portion of the population becoming ensnared in a perpetual reliance on smartphones. The prevalence of technological devices has led to a significant dependency among students. Approximately 30 million individuals, constituting approximately 80% of the user population in Indonesia, are students. This behaviour frequently leads individuals to lose track of time during late hours, as they habitually resort to incessantly monitoring their electronic devices as a means of evading social interactions on online platforms. The objective of this study was to investigate the correlation between gadget usage and sleep quality. Methods: The present study employed a quantitative approach utilizing a cross-sectional design. This study employed comparative statistical analysis to examine the correlation between gadget usage and the sleep quality of students at STIKes Karsa Husada Garut. Results:: The data analysis using the Chi-square test yielded a p-value of less than 0.05, suggesting a significant association between the utilization of Gadgets and the quality of sleep among nursing students at STIKes Karsa Husada Garut.  Conclusion: the utilization of electronic devices had a notable impact on the sleep quality of final-year students at STIKes Karsa Husada Garut. A negative correlation can be interpreted as indicating an inverse relationship between the use of gadgets and sleep quality, such that an increase in gadget usage is associated with a decrease in sleep quality and vice versa.
Acceptability and Marketability of Sunsejack Peanut Brittle
Authors: Lumampao Leslie Catembung
Published: July 2023

This study aims to know the acceptability and marketability of using sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, and jackfruit seeds when creating a variant of the food brittle. The peanut brittle was created containing different ratios of sunflower, sesame, and jackfruit seeds to know the acceptability of the different ratios in terms of appearance, aroma, color, taste, and texture. The same system was also used to know about the marketability of the created version of peanut brittle in terms of supply availability, product cost, and consumer demand. The gathered data showed varied results from different samples on the different ratios and their criteria. The data gathered in this research were from MAT-Food Technology students who were officially enrolled at Marikina Polytechnic College during the semester, academic year 2022-2023. There were 30 teenagers, 30 adults and 30 young adults that comprised the group of evaluators, by using the 9-Point Hedonic Rating Scale. On the other hand, 30 TLE Teacher, 30 Food Brittle Maker and 30 Seller represented the other group of evaluators, by using the 5-Point Likert Scale. Their evaluations were then compared to know if there are significant differences between the evaluations of different samples on the three ratios and showed varied results across the three ratios in terms of acceptability and marketability. Lab tests were also conducted to analyze the physicochemical properties of the created SUNSEJACK peanut brittle which showed that they contain carbohydrates, protein, a moisture content of 3.7107%, and a pH of 7.1.
Student Readiness on the Blended Learning Modalities of the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy: An Assessment
Authors: Tripolca Carolina O.
Published: July 2023

This mixed-method research aimed to assess student readiness on the use of blended learning modalities at the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy. It examined the level of readiness towards self-directed learning, online student engagement, and the level of student satisfaction among the midshipmen to assess the effectiveness of these lesson delivery blends.

1CL, 3CL, and 4CL midshipmen officially enrolled in the 1st Semester of the School Year 2022-2023 were surveyed online to establish their demographic profile, their level of readiness in terms of self-directed learning and online student engagement readiness, and their level of student satisfaction. A semi-formal interview asked the faculty about their preferred blend or combination of modalities. The SPSS was utilized to analyze the results.

When grouped according to year level, 4CL Midshipmen demonstrated lower Self-Directed Learning Readiness and Online Student Engagement than the senior cadets. When grouped according to program, BS Marine Transportation midshipmen were more self-directed and satisfied than the BS Marine Engineering midshipmen.  Faculty favored the face-to-face and online asynchronous blend.

Gleaning on the results of the study, an assessment tool (PMMA Blended Modalities Readiness Survey for Incoming 4CL Midshipmen) was proposed to address the identified challenges. The recommendations also included the incorporation of the proposed assessment tool into the Quality Operations Manual to serve as guidelines in the implementation of blended learning modalities. A competence assessment between colleges, strengthened collaboration between the IT department and the colleges, midshipmen digital literacy training, and faculty training on digital tools for online learning facilitation were also recommended.
Understanding Financial Resiliency: A Qualitative Inquiry into the Experiences and Strategies of The Employees in an Engineering and Consultancy Firm
Authors: Siman Bennegreg P. , Orencia Abrian Joy B.
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this qualitative case study was to conduct an in-depth analysis of the potential of Forex Trading and investing in developing financial resiliency among the employees of an Engineering and Consultancy Firm in the Philippines. This is a qualitative single case study of 10 employees of the company that were interviewed regarding the potential of investing in forex trading as a means to attain financial resiliency.  Qualitative data for this study were gathered through one-session, semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, documents, journaling, and observations.  Thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke’s method for analysing qualitative data was used in understanding the qualitative data.  Results have shown that participants have identified several challenges that seem to slow them down in earning money for them to obtain their aspiration of becoming financially resilient. It was also shown that participants thought that venturing in new business, stock market and forex investments, and sideline jobs were the most frequent responses recorded that may serve as solutions to the challenges. It is important to note that most of the participants were affirmative upon being asked if they would try foreign exchange investments as a potential means of achieving financial resiliency. Among others, the most significant manner of addressing financial challenges lamented by the participants was having a well-conditioned mind so that a well-planned long-term goal will be established.  It is recommended to explore more related literature that tackles financial education in the Philippines and note the statistical number of those who are financially literate as this could be a contributing factor why the participants of this study lack concrete saving plans. Moreover, further exploration on the trend of foreign exchange investment is also suggested including the use of digital platforms for information dissemination regarding finance.
Teachers’ Challenges and Readiness of the School on the Implementation of Expanded Face-to-face Classes
Authors: Yambot Rowel L , Ayro Eufemia C , Vidal Jr Efraim S
Published: July 2023

This study investigated the teachers ‘challenges in implementing expanded face-to-face classes and school standards and procedures in the Division of Nueva Ecija. This utilized descriptive research in describing the socio-demographic profile of the respondents as well as their perceived student attitudes towards learning Araling Panlipunan, challenges on the implementation of face-to-faces and perception of school standards and procedures. A total of 48 teachers were selected purposively as respondents to the study. They were teachers in Carranglan District handling Araling Panlipunan subjects in the Schools Division of Nueva Ecija. The survey questionnaire was administered. Data gathered were analyzed using frequency, mean and percentage. Meanwhile, Chi-square was used to establish relationships among variables. The study shows that regular monitoring of students’ performance through their assessments and performance tasks ranks first as issues and challenges that Araling Panlipunan teachers experienced during the pandemic, and resiliency and flexibility were the traits that the respondents described. With the study’s findings, an intervention plan is proposed to help Araling Panlipunan teachers overcome the challenges in teaching and attain their full potential. This will become the basis for educators and administrators to help them enhance their competencies in the field.
The Effect of Academic Supervision to School Supervisors and Teacher Motivation on Teacher Performance
Authors: Nadrah Nadrah
Published: July 2023

This study is to describe the influence of school supervisors' academic supervision and motivation teacher achievement on teacher performance at SMA Negeri Mamajang District, Makassar City. This type of research is research ex post facto using a quantitative approach. Sampling technique was carried out by using proportional random sampling . The total population in this study was 247 teachers, where exogenous variable in this study is supervision academic supervisor of the school, while the intervening variable is teacher achievement motivation and the endogenous variable is teacher performance. The research instrument used is a questionnaire, the data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, which are in the analysis the inferential use analysis track.. Study This aim (1) For get description about academic supervision of school supervisors, teacher achievement motivation and teacher performance at the District Public High School Mamajang Makassar City (2) to find out that empirically supervision academic supervisor school effect on teacher achievement motivation at SMA Negeri Mamajang District, Makassar City (3) for obtain information empirical that supervision academic supervisor school influential to performance Teacher on senior high school Country Subdistrict Mamajang City Macassar (4) For ensure that in a manner empirical motivation achievement Teacher influential to performance Teacher on senior high school country subdistrict mamajang city macassar (5) for confirms that empirically the academic supervision of school supervisors influences teacher performance through motivation achievement teacher on senior high school Country Mamajang District City Macassar. Results study show that (1) supervision academic supervisor school with mark average as big 104.49 and generally in the good category, teacher achievement motivation with an average value of 111.20 And in general are in the very good category, while teacher performance with an average score of 129.23 and in general are in the very good category. (2) there is a direct influence from the supervisor's academic supervision school on teacher achievement motivation of 75.3% with a path coefficient of 0.868; (3) there is influence direct supervision academic supervisor school to performance Teacher as big 2,3 % with coefficient track 0.153; (4) there is a direct effect of teacher achievement motivation on teacher performance of 87.4% with a path coefficient 0.838; (5) there is an indirect effect of the school supervisor's academic supervision on teacher performance through motivation teacher achievement of 3,4 % with coefficients track 0, 111.
Effects of Slender Carpetweed (Mollugo oppositifolia) Extract on Intestinal Worms of Native Chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus)
Authors: Latoza Franciss John , Estudillo Sinamar E.
Published: July 2023

Poultry is the fastest growing component and one of the most efficient and effective means of food supply to the society in the form of meat and egg. Parasitic infections lead to low productivity and increased mortality in poultry. A total of forty-five (45) apparently healthy Philippine native chickens, regardless of sex and weight, ranging from 4-6 months of age, were randomly distributed in five (5) treatments. Each treatment was replicated thrice with three (3) birds per replication following the Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Simple Test Tube Flotation was used to establish which parasite groups are present in the fecal samples. The McMaster technique was also used as a counting chamber which enables a known volume (2 x 0.15 ml) of fecal suspension to be examined microscopically. The number of eggs per gram was calculated by counting the number of eggs within the grid of each chamber which gave the data on eggs per gram (EPG) of feces. The results revealed in T4 (1ml) slender carpet weed extract and T5 (1.5ml) have anthelmintic potentials when used in native chickens. Thus, slender carpet weed extract is an effective deworming agent. Slender carpet weed extract is effective in lowering the egg per gram of intestinal parasites found in native chickens. The optimum volume to ensure effectivity is 1.5 ml which revealed the strongest effect in reducing intestinal worms.
The Perceived Impact of the LGU-Funded Extension Programs in Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College – Santiago Campus
Authors: Dela Cruz Jonathan L. , Estrañero Adela G. , Rante Jona A.
Published: July 2023

Empowering people through the implementation of sustainable community development programs is one of the prime concerns of Higher Education Institutions (HEI). Through responsive extension programs and services of HEIs and strong partnerships with LGUs, the people are empowered, socioeconomic status is uplifted and the cultural heritage is conserved. This study aimed to assess the impact of the LGU-Funded extension programs of a State Higher Institution in the Philippines. This descriptive research study used a questionnaire and interview with 180 beneficiaries and utilized mean and rank. The results revealed that extension program implementers are highly capable in terms of leadership, personnel, and financial capability. The participation of LGUs and community people is high. In addition, the level of program outputs of the extension services is satisfactory and the impact of the extension programs is rated satisfactory. Hence, the partnership between the LGU and the academe and funding of the extension programs and activities by LGUs shall be sustained. The adoption and implementation of the extension improvement plan is proposed.
Fatores de risco ambientais para o transtorno de déficit de atenção e hiperatividade
Authors: Almeida Juliana Vieira Queiroz , Muniz Renan Bezerra , Moura Lauro Eustáquio Guilanda de
Published: July 2023

O Transtorno de Déficit de Atenção e Hiperatividade (TDAH) pode ser caracterizado por desatenção, hiperatividade e impulsividade de modo que há interferência no funcionamento e no desenvolvimento do indivíduo, além de um comprometimento significativo do funcionamento familiar, social, acadêmico e comportamental. O TDAH é um quadro clínico complexo e de etiologia multifatorial, com influência de 10-30% relacionada aos fatores ambientais. Alguns dos fatores que se relacionam com o transtorno são ligados a hábitos maternos (durante ou pregressos ao período gestacional), de forma que, se identificados na Atenção Primária e evitados, seria possível impedir a evolução do transtorno para uma condição mais grave e mais sintomática. Com o objetivo de identificar e descrever os fatores de risco para o TDAH, que poderiam possibilitar algum tipo de prevenção ou melhor prognóstico, foram selecionados 41 artigos através de uma revisão de literatura nas plataformas The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), PUBMED, Scientific Eletronic Library Online (SciELO) e Cochrane Library, sendo os principais descritores: “adhd”, “risk factors”, “premature birth” e “diagnosis”. Ademais, foram incluídas manualmente 6 referências, devido à sua importância ao tema, totalizando 47 referências. Critérios de inclusão: artigos publicados nos últimos 10 anos, em língua inglesa e/ou portuguesa, que abordavam fatores de risco para o TDAH. Critérios de exclusão: artigos tendenciosos, que apenas abordavam fatores que não influenciavam o desenvolvimento do transtorno, mas somente as intervenções medicamentosas e comportamentais a serem tomadas. Após análise dos dados, conclui-se que algum tipo de prevenção ou minimização do TDAH pode ser possível. Isso começa com a identificação dos fatores de risco na mulher em idade fértil e na gestante, e após o nascimento da criança. Foram considerados alguns dos fatores importantes a serem alterados para prevenção e/ou melhor prognóstico: ausência de planejamento familiar; uso de álcool, nicotina e paracetamol durante a gestação; pobreza; baixa escolaridade; má adesão ao tratamento especializado do transtorno; e contato com bisfenol A e ftalato. São fatores a serem melhor investigados: prematuridade, pressão cultural, demanda acadêmica e doença hipertensiva específica da gravidez (DHEG). Consideramos importante a identificação dos fatores, pois isto possibilitaria um melhor prognóstico da criança e melhoria do ambiente familiar, já que o transtorno frequentemente representa um fardo para a família.
Avaliação do impacto dos anticoagulantes na incidência de demência em pacientes com fibrilação atrial: uma revisão narrativa
Authors: Teixeira Caroline Fonseca , Reis Rodrigo Taranto de , Branca Larissa Rodrigues Perrenout , Braz Igor Dutra
Published: July 2023

A fibrilação atrial (FA) é o tipo mais comum de arritmia cardíaca e está associada a um maior risco de demência. Acredita-se que o uso de fármacos anticoagulantes orais seja um fator protetivo para o desenvolvimento de demência. Assim, essa revisão narrativa teve o objetivo de apresentar e discutir a evidência atual sobre o impacto do uso de anticoagulantes e o comprometimento cognitivo em pessoas com fibrilação atrial. A seleção foi feita usando os MeSH terms: atrial fibrillation; dementia; treatment; anticoagulants. Foram incluídos ensaios clínicos randomizados ou coortes prospectivos publicados entre 2015 e 2021, desenvolvidos em seres humanos. Foram identificados 155 artigos, sendo que 10 cumpriam os critérios de inclusão. A maioria dos estudos analisados observaram uma diminuição no risco de demência com o uso dos NOACs (novos anticoagulantes orais) em relação ao uso da varfarina. O estudo de Kim et al (2021) aponta a rivaroxabana como droga mais eficiente para diminuição do risco de demência, dentre os NOACs. Contudo, Søgaard et al (2019) apresentaram um risco maior de demência associado ao uso dos NOACs, quando comparado a varfarina. Conclui-se, que os NOACs e a varfarina, diminuem o risco de quadro demencial em pessoas com FA. No entanto, ainda não é possível afirmar o melhor tratamento oferecido atualmente.
Topographical Association Between Left Ventricular Strain and Brain Lesions in Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke and Normal Cardiac Function
Authors: Chung Darda , Hong Suk‐Woo , Lee Jieun , Chung Jong‐Won , Bang Oh Young , Kim Gyeong‐Moon , Seo Woo‐Keun , Park Sung‐Ji
Published: July 2023

Background

Although it is well known that the disordered brain provokes cardiac autonomic dysfunction, the detailed location of brain lesions related to cardiac function warrants further investigation. We aimed to elucidate the brain lesions topographically associated with left ventricular (LV) systolic function measured by myocardial strain in patients with acute ischemic stroke without preexisting primary cardiac dysfunction by using support vector regression lesion‐symptom mapping.

Methods and Results

Subjects were those with LV ejection fraction of 50% or more among patients with acute ischemic stroke registered in the Samsung Medical Center stroke registry between 2016 and 2017. To evaluate LV systolic performance and contractility, we measured LV ejection fraction and LV global and regional longitudinal strain using 2‐dimensional speckle‐tracking echocardiography. The association between stroke lesion location and cardiac strain was assessed using support vector regression lesion‐symptom mapping. Of a total of 776 patients, 286 subjects (mean age of 67.0 years, 65.4% men) were finally enrolled in this study. The mean global longitudinal strain was −17.0±3.4%, and the mean LV ejection fraction was 64.7±5.7%. The support vector regression lesion‐symptom mapping analysis revealed that the right insula and peri‐insular regions and left parietal cortex were associated with impaired LV global longitudinal strain in patients with acute ischemic stroke. In addition, impaired regional longitudinal strain showed topographical associations with these regions.

Conclusions

This study suggests that brain lesions in the right insula and peri‐insular regions and left parietal cortex are topographically associated with impaired LV strain in patients with acute ischemic stroke without preexisting cardiac dysfunction.
Estimating Endogenous Effects on Ordinal Outcomes
Authors: Chesher Andrew , Rosen Adam M. , Siddique Zahra
Published: July 2023

We examine the use of instrumental variable (IV) methods to measure the effect of a ceteris paribus change in an endogenous variable on an ordered outcome. Specifically, we use these methods to investigate the effect of neighborhood characteristics on subjective well-being (SWB) among participants in the Moving to Opportunity (MTO) housing voucher experiment. We find that the estimated positive effect of a decrease in neighborhood poverty on SWB is sensitive to the specification of the first stage auxiliary equation for endogenous neighborhood poverty. Our results highlight the influential role of control function restrictions in complete triangular models.
Are Consumers (Approximately) Rational? Shifting the Burden of Proof
Authors: Cherchye Laurens , Demuynck Thomas , De Rock Bram , Lanier Joshua
Published: July 2023

We present a statistical test for the hypothesis of (approximate) utility maximization on the basis of nonparametric revealed preference conditions. We take as null hypothesis that the consumer behaves randomly, and we reject this hypothesis only if the data provides sufficient evidence to support the alternative hypothesis of approximate utility maximization. Our statistical test uses a permutation method to operationalize the principle of random consumption behavior. We show that our test (i) is valid for any sample size under the null and (ii) has an asymptotic power of one. We also provide simulated power results and two empirical applications.
An extended mtDNA phylogeography for the alpine newt illuminates the provenance of introduced populations
Authors: Robbemont Jody , van Veldhuijzen Sam , Allain Steven J.R. , Ambu Johanna , Boyle Ryan , Canestrelli Daniele , Cathasaigh Éinne Ó , Cathrine Chris , Chiocchio Andrea , Cogalniceanu Dan , Cvijanović Milena , Dufresnes Christophe , Ennis Collie , Gandola Rob , Jablonski Daniel , Julian Angela , Kranželić Daria , Lukanov Simeon , Martínez-Solano Iñigo , Montgomery Ryan , Naumov Borislav , O’Neill Matthew , North Alexandra , Pabijan Maciej , Pushendorf Robert , Salvi Daniele , Schmidt Bruno , Sotiropoulos Konstantinos , Stanescu Florina , Stanković David , Stapleton Sarah , Šunje Emina , Szabolcs Márton , Vacheva Emiliya , Willis David , Zimić Adnan , France James , Meilink Willem R.M. , Stark Tariq , Struijk Richard P.J.H. , Theodoropoulos Anagnostis , de Visser Manon C. , Wielstra Ben
Published: July 2023

Many herpetofauna species have been introduced outside of their native range. MtDNA barcoding is regularly used to determine the provenance of such populations. The alpine newt has been introduced across the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and Ireland. However, geographical mtDNA structure across the natural range of the alpine newt is still incompletely understood and certain regions are severely undersampled. We collect mtDNA sequence data of over seven hundred individuals, from both the native and the introduced range. The main new insights from our extended mtDNA phylogeography are that 1) haplotypes from Spain do not form a reciprocally monophyletic clade, but are nested inside the mtDNA clade that covers western and eastern Europe; and 2) haplotypes from the northwest Balkans form a monophyletic clade together with those from the Southern Carpathians and Apuseni Mountains. We also home in on the regions where the distinct mtDNA clades meet in nature. We show that four out of the seven distinct mtDNA clades that comprise the alpine newt are implicated in the introductions in the Netherlands, United Kingdom and Ireland. In several introduced localities, two distinct mtDNA clades co-occur. As these mtDNA clades presumably represent cryptic species, we urge that the extent of genetic admixture between them is assessed from genome-wide nuclear DNA markers. We mobilized a large number of citizen scientists in this project to support the collection of DNA samples by skin swabbing and underscore the effectiveness of this sampling technique for mtDNA barcoding.
Hanguana sitinurbayai (Hanguanaceae), a new species from mossy montane forest of Gunung Nyiut Penrissen, West Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: RANDI AGUSTI , WIDODO R.M. WIWIED , ADIRAHMANTA SADTATA N.
Published: July 2023

A new montane Hanguana species is described here, it is the first species to be described from the highlands in the genus whereas all the previous species were described from the lowlands, particularly in the swampy areas. Full descriptions with photographs as well as notes on distribution, ecology and habitat, conservation status, and key to the genus in Borneo are provided in this paper.
A revision of the chigger genus Afrotrombicula (Acariformes: Trombiculidae)
Authors: STEKOLNIKOV ALEXANDR A.
Published: July 2023

The chigger genus Afrotrombicula Kolebinova and Vercammen-Grandjean, 1978 has been revised based on examination of museum specimens and reference data. Six species have been transferred to this genus from Neotrombicula Hirst, 1925 with the following new combinations: Afrotrombicula (Afrotrombicula) centrafricana (Goff, 1995), comb. nov., A. (A.) claviglia (Radford, 1948), comb. nov., A. (A.) kenyaensis (Goff, 1995), comb. nov., A. (A.) nicolei (Taufflieb, 1958), comb. nov., A. (A.) rickenbachi (Taufflieb, 1965), comb. nov., and A. (A.) zairiensis (Taufflieb, 1966), comb. nov. Re-descriptions of two incompletely described species have been provided. Four new synonyms have been established for two species: A. (A.) rickenbachi (Taufflieb, 1965), comb. nov. (= Neotrombicula cercopitheci cercopitheci Vercammen-Grandjean, 1965 (nomen nudum), syn. nov.; = N. chicapa Vercammen-Grandjean, 1965 (nomen nudum), syn. nov.; = N. kinduensis Vercammen-Grandjean, 1965 (nomen nudum), syn. nov.), and A. (Tauffliebicula) machadoi (Taufflieb, 1962) (= A. lophuromyia Kolebinova and Vercammen-Grandjean, 1978, syn. nov.). Afrotrombicula rickenbachi has been for the first time recorded in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and found on six new host species. A key to the 14 species referred to the genus Afrotrombicula has been compiled. According to the results of revision, the genus Afrotrombicula is an endemic of the Tropical Africa, and its distribution is probably restricted to subequatorial territories.
A Monastic Antichrist Satire from Medieval Bury St Edmunds: Interpreting the Iconotypicon Buriense
Authors: Young Francis
Published: July 2023

The so-called Iconotypicon Buriense (‘copy of the Bury picture’) is a painted panel of around 1560 that purports to reproduce a late medieval stained-glass window that was once in the Cellarer’s Chamber at St Edmunds Abbey. While the Iconotypicon has historically been interpreted as an anti-papal portrayal of Antichrist that anticipated the polemic of the Reformation era, this article argues that the original window was in all likelihood a monastic satire that took aim at the enemies of St Edmunds Abbey: bishops, secular clergy and friars. The Iconotypicon is rooted in traditional antisemitic portrayals of Antichrist and antifraternal traditions of monastic critique of the mendicant friars, and, while it is unusual, it is an essentially conservative work of religious art.
Distributed Leadership Promotes Teacher Self-Efficacy in Multicultural Classrooms Through School Capacity Building: A Multilevel SEM Approach Using U.S. Teaching and Learning International Survey
Authors: Choi Soobin
Published: July 2023

Purpose : This study examines the direct and indirect effects of distributed leadership on teacher self-efficacy in multicultural classrooms (TSMC) through school capacity building, specifically teacher team innovativeness and a feedback network. Research Design : Using data from the Teaching and Learning International Survey 2018, this study employs a 2-2-1 multilevel structural equation modeling to account for the nested data structure (teachers nested within schools). Latent variables are constructed, and their validity is tested, followed by an analysis of the relationships among distributed leadership, teacher team innovativeness, a feedback network, and TSMC. Findings: This study finds that distributed leadership has an indirect-only mediation effect on TSMC via a feedback network but not via teacher team innovativeness. The effect of distributed leadership on TSMC is fully mediated by a feedback network. In addition, the study shows that distributed leadership is positively associated with a feedback network and teacher team innovativeness. Conclusions : This study contributes to our understanding of the role of distributed leadership in fostering school capacity building and promoting TSMC. Given the increasing diversity in schools, it is crucial for school leaders to prepare teachers to teach students in multicultural classrooms. The findings suggest that school leaders can enhance teachers’ efficacy in teaching students from diverse backgrounds by facilitating their participation in school improvement processes and establishing a collective feedback network where teachers receive feedback from various sources. These results emphasize the importance of distributed leadership in equipping teachers for culturally responsive teaching in multicultural classrooms.
Doing the Work of God: HBCU’s and Black America’s Response to the Influenza Pandemic of 1918
Authors: Graham Robert L. , Guiden Pittman Andrea
Published: July 2023

This study illuminates African American responses to the Influenza pandemic of 1918, historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in particular. We chose a decolonized approach to historical inquiry, centering Black narratives, periodicals, and historical documents to better understand the African American experience and thereby the world. Our investigation revealed institutions that readily and dutifully responded to the pandemic as a function of their expertise and as a strategy to advance the freedom cause of African Americans. Places like Howard University, Knoxville College, and Meharry Medical College were resources for Black folks, their communities, and for the first time, White Americans. HBCU giants, W. E. B. Du Bois and C.V. Roman emerged in new ways to help Black America balance its duties to society, democracy, and to the race. Despite valor in war and medical service to the country, Black America would continue to struggle for full citizenship.
Thermo-visco mechanical behavior of glass fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite
Authors: Faddoul Josephine , Rahme Pierre , Guines Dominique , Leotoing Lionel
Published: July 2023

Thermoplastic composite materials are being increasingly used in many domains, such as automotive, marine and aeronautics. This growing interest is due to the relatively good mechanical properties and the recycle-ability of these materials. In various heat assisted forming technologies, thermoplastic composites may be subjected to severe conditions such as high temperatures, complex strain paths and potentially significant strain rates. This is expected to highly influence the overall behavior of these materials and make the characterization of their mechanical behavior more complicated. In this paper, the mechanical behavior of discontinuous glass fiber reinforced polypropylene composite is investigated at temperatures going from room temperature (RT) to 120°C and strain rates ranging from quasi-static conditions to 10 s−1 by means of uniaxial tensile tests. The effect of material orientation is also investigated at RT and quasi-static strain rate of 0.001 s−1 pointing out a clear anisotropic behavior. The tensile properties including Young’s modulus E, ultimate tensile strength σ ult and strain at failure ɛ f are determined based on the Standard ISO-527 reporting an obvious sensitivity of the material to temperature and strain rate. Based on literature review, the phenomenological isotropic constitutive model of G’Sell and Jonas, originally designed for unreinforced semi-crystalline polymers, is selected to describe the mechanical behavior of the studied material. A modification of the original constitutive equation is proposed for a better representation of the overall behavior of the material at different temperature and strain rate conditions. Finally, the validity of this phenomenological law calibrated by means of the uniaxial tests, is evaluated for an equi-biaxial loading state close to that encountered by the material during heat assisted sheet forming process. The significant disagreement highlighted between numerical and experimental results proved that the uniaxial tensile tests are not sufficient to characterize the behavior of the material when a complex loading condition is imposed.
Characteristics Associated With Perceived Underemployment Among Participants With Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Krause James S. , Dismuke-Greer Clara E. , Reed Karla , Jarnecke Melinda
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this study was to identify job characteristics related to perceived underemployment among people with multiple sclerosis (MS), while controlling for demographic, MS-related, and educational factors. A sample of U.S. adults with MS, all of whom were a minimum 1-year post diagnosis, <65, and employed at the time of the study ( n = 585), participated. Perceived underemployment was measured by a single dichotomous variable (yes/no). A restricted model with only demographic, MS, and educational factors explained 8.5% of the variance, whereas the full model with vocational factors explained 26.1%. Only race-ethnicity and fatigue were significant in the restricted model, with greater odds of underemployment among Black non-Hispanic (odds ratio [OR] = 2.0), Hispanic/other (OR = 2.7), and for those reporting fatigue (OR = 2.2). In the final model, the odds of underemployment were lower for those with higher income (≥US$75,000, OR = 0.28) and those in jobs with promotion and recognition (OR = 0.41); with greater odds of underemployment for those with higher education (bachelors or higher, OR = 2.2) and working in professional/managerial occupations (OR = 1.9). Perceived underemployment was related to several quality employment indicators including lower earnings, lesser advancement and/or recognition, higher education, and working in professional/managerial occupations.
Book review: N. B. Lekha & A. Palackal, Unveiling the Gender Paradox: Dynamics of Power, Sexuality and Property
Authors: Nair Lekshmi V.
Published: July 2023

N. B. Lekha & A. Palackal, Unveiling the Gender Paradox: Dynamics of Power, Sexuality and Property (Palgrave Macmillan, 2022), xiii + 160 pp., ₹12,478 (Hardback). ISBN 978-3-031-09699-3 (Hardcover), 978-3- 031-09701-0 (Softcover), 978-3-031-09699-0 (e-book).
Active Student Responding and Student Perceptions: A Replication and Extension
Authors: Keim Alaina C. , Sanders Adriane M.F. , Rada-Bayne Thaddeus B. , Earnest David R.
Published: July 2023

Background: This study examined students’ perceptions of and engagement with active student responding (ASR) techniques as they relate to student performance. Objective: We replicate Zayac et al.'s study on ASR methods and expand on it by using an upper-level psychology course at multiple institutions and additional measures of engagement. Method: The current study used a within-subjects, counter-balanced design, with data collected from 103 students at four universities. Results: Though no differences in exam scores across ASR conditions were observed, there were differences in student perceptions and engagement. ASR techniques providing increased anonymity resulted in greater student perceptions and engagement than control conditions. Additionally, extraverted students reported greater cognitive and emotional engagement with nonanonymous ASR techniques. Conclusion: Findings support some positive impacts of ASR techniques, especially for those that allow for increased student anonymity. Implications for Teaching: Instructors should be selective and critical about adopting ASR techniques in the classroom, as anonymous ones may allow for increased student engagement and accommodations for some but have the potential for distraction or disengagement for others.
Epithelial-Myoepithelial Carcinoma of the Nasal Cavity: A Case Report
Authors: Waitzman Jacob , Waitzman Ariel , Powers Jeremy , Deraniyagala Rohan
Published: July 2023

Epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma is an extremely rare tumor of the nasal cavity. We present a case involving a 67-year-old female with symptoms of nasal obstruction and recurrent epistaxis. An investigation with endoscopy and CT was performed. The patient underwent endoscopic surgical resection. Microscopic positive margins were present after extensive resection. The patient underwent radiotherapy utilizing proton therapy and has been disease free for 6 months at follow-up.