bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting chlorophyll-a dynamics in the Ashtamudi estuary using ANN and ANFIS techniques
Authors: Priya K. L. , Haddout Soufiane , Casila Joan Cecilia C.
Published: October 2024

Excessive nutrients and associated high chlorophyll-a concentration are of growing concern to the public health due to the occurrence of eutrophication in aquatic bodies. Continuous monitoring of chlorophyll-a has limitations, thereby necessitating the development of prediction models. Even though chlorophyll-a prediction models are numerous, they rarely fit into estuarine conditions, which is encountered with dynamic mixing of freshwater and sea water. Thus, the present study identifies the most appropriate driving factors that are relevant for estuarine conditions through chlorophyll-a prediction models developed using Artificial Neural Network and Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) approaches in the Ashtamudi estuary, India. Salinity, which is an indirect measure of the estuarine mixing intensity, has been used to replicate the dynamic mixing in the estuary. The results indicate that the model incorporating salinity along with total nitrogen, total phosphorous and turbidity well-predicted chlorophyll-a concentration with a coefficient of determination ranging from 0.73 to 0.99. General Regression Neural Network (GRNN) and ANFIS models outperformed Back Propagation Neural Network (BPNN) and Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) models. Of the various ANFIS models, the ones that used Gaussian and Generalized Bell membership functions were most appropriate for the prediction of chlorophyll-a than the models with triangular and trapezoidal membership functions. The study identified that the models that considered salinity were less sensitive and can be used for modelling chlorophyll-a. The chlorophyll-a was observed to have a direct influence of salinity at salinity values greater than 5‰. The study highlighted that estuarine mixing further enhances the primary productivity through increased penetration of light leading to higher chlorophyll-a concentration. Further the study emplasized that the predictive models are important tools fitting well within estuarine environments due to its replicability.
Characterization of Staphylococcus lugdunensis biofilms through ethyl methanesulfonate mutagenesis
Authors: Cruikshank McKenna J. , Pitzer Justine M. , Ameri Kimia , Rother Caleb V. , Cooper Kathryn , Nuxoll Austin S.
Published: October 2024

Staphylococcus lugdunensis is a coagulase-negative species responsible for a multitude of infections. These infections often resemble those caused by the more pathogenic staphylococcal species, Staphylococcus aureus, such as skin and soft tissue infections, prosthetic joint infections, and infective endocarditis. Despite a high mortality rate and infections that differ from other coagulase-negative species, little is known regarding S. lugdunensis pathogenesis. The objective of this study is to identify the essential factors for biofilm formation in S. lugdunensis. S. lugdunensis was mutagenized through ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS) exposure, and the individual cells were separated using a cell sorter and examined for biofilm formation at 8 hr and 24 hr timepoints. Mutations that resulted in either increased or decreased biofilm formation were sequenced to identify the genes responsible for the respective phenotypes. A mutation within the S. lugdunensis surface protein A (slsA) gene was common among all of the low biofilm formers, thus suggesting that high expression of this protein is important in biofilm formation. However, other mutations common among the mutants with decreased biofilm formation were in the putative divalent cation transport gene, mgtE. Conversely, a mutation in the gene that codes for the von Willebrand factor binding protein, vwbl, was common among the mutants with increased biofilm formation. Following proteinase K treatment, a significant dispersal of the S. lugdunensis biofilm matrix occurred, thus confirming the presence of primarily protein-mediated biofilms; this is in agreement with previous S. lugdunensis studies. Additionally, all low biofilm formers exhibited decreased protein levels (1.95–2.77 fold change) within the biofilm matrix, while no difference was observed with extracellular DNA (eDNA) or polysaccharides. This study presents a unique methodology to identify genes that affect biofilm formation and sheds light on S. lugdunensis pathogenesis.
Jardins en commun(s)
Authors: Sachsé Victoria
Published: October 2024

Si les jardins partagés peuvent être perçus comme un phénomène de mode pour un public urbain en manque de verdure, ils sont issus d'une longue histoire de réappropriation des terres, en réaction à leur privatisation ou à leur abandon. Au-delà du simple territoire à cultiver, ils soulèvent de nombreuses interrogations sur l’organisation sociale telle que nous la connaissons. Gérés en communauté, ces espaces interrogent d’une part la démocratie comme mode d’organisation. Victoria Sachsé, grâce à une ethnographie à Strasbourg et à Rome, montre comment le jardin peut être un lieu de participation citoyenne et devenir un vecteur d’émancipation et de politisation. D’autre part, l’autrice fait ressortir les enjeux de l’implication au jardin, qui modifie le rapport à la terre et à l’alimentation, bouleversant la perception des rôles de consommateur et de producteur, et ce, jusqu’à la remise en cause du modèle agricole conventionnel. Enfin, l’ouvrage montre comment les associations de jardiniers deviennent légitimes pour penser la coproduction de l’espace public aux côtés des institutions, redéfinissent la propriété et introduisent la notion de « communs » en réponse à la crise sociale et environnementale.
Géographie des restaurants étoilés en France métropolitaine
Authors: Édouard Jean-Charles , Langlois Éric
Published: October 2024

L’article analyse la géographie des restaurants étoilés en France telle qu’elle apparaît dans le guide Michelin 2021. Il met en regard cette géographie avec celle, plus générale, des restaurants dans leur globalité, mais aussi avec le fonctionnement du territoire français (différenciations régionales, complémentarité villes-campagnes, dynamique touristique, accessibilité territoriale…). Il s’agit aussi de confronter la géographie actuelle des restaurants étoilés avec celle qui apparait dans la littérature déjà existante sur le sujet : l’héritage urbain de la localisation et la lente et inégale diffusion spatiale, ainsi que les facteurs explicatifs, comme l’accroissement de la mobilité et le développement du tourisme gourmand.
MapDraw. Un outil libre d’annotation de cartes en ligne
Authors: Berli Justin , Touya Guillaume , Gruget Maïeul , Potié Quentin
Published: October 2024

Les enquêtes et questionnaires reposent souvent sur l’utilisation de supports papier, et les cartes ne font pas exception. En effet, ces dernières permettent une grande flexibilité, notamment en termes d’annotations, de dessins, etc. Mais la conversion et l’exploitation des données ainsi récoltées dans un SIG peuvent s’avérer fastidieuses, et cela peut bien souvent limiter la quantité de données récoltée. Cet article présente un outil libre en ligne, MapDraw, permettant de prendre des notes sur une carte interactive et d’exporter ces données dans un format utilisable par un SIG.
Harnessing the power of rhizosphere bacteria for pollution remediation: strategies, mechanisms, and environmental impact: A review
Authors: Balkrishna A. , Kaushik P. , Mohini  , Arya V. , Ghosh S.
Published: October 2024

This review explores into the sizeable potential of rhizosphere bacteria as effective mediators in the pollution remediation. These rhizosphere bacteria are primarily found in the soil surrounding plant roots, and they have an extremely strong ability to remove a wide range of toxins from the environment. This is attuned with the idea of phytoremediation, which is the use of plants to clean adulterated soil or water.  In addition to vigorous participation in bioremediation processes, their diverse activities include stimulating plant growth and serving as biocontrol agents against plant diseases. Their ability to gather, change, and restrain pollutants is one of their main advantages, especially when used in combination with phytoremediation techniques. To fully utilize these microorganisms, it is essential to understand the various bacterial strains and their complex biological pathways that influence their behavior. The diversity and richness of rhizosphere bacterial populations, significantly affected by different plant species and environmental factors, is a crucial area that requires further study. Grasping this heterogeneity is essential for adapting phytoremediation strategies to particular contamination situations and exploiting their effectiveness. Rhizosphere microorganisms present a feasible path towards a more supportable and clean future. This might potentially make a big contribution to environmental restoration efforts in a world that is always changing.
Cycle structures with more than three nontrivial cycles of automorphisms of Latin squares
 
Authors: Mendis M. J. L.
Published: October 2024

A permutation α ∈ Sn is said to be an automorphism of a Latin square if the Latin square is mapped to itself by permuting rows, columns and symbols by α. Let Aut(n) be the set of all automorphisms of Latin squares of order n. Whether a permutation α belongs to Aut(n) depends only on the cycle structure of α. Stones et al characterised α∈ Aut(n) for which α has at most three nontrivial cycles. In this research we prove some related results for automorphisms with four non trivial cycles. Also we found a necessary and sufficient condition for automorphisms opposite to above results when α has finite number of nontrivial cycles such that each cycle is divisible by the next.
Construction of an effective telephone bandwidth specifically for speaker recognition
 
Authors: Thiruvaran T.
Published: October 2024

Although the telephone bandwidth is 0-4 kHz, the speaker specific information is not evenly distributed within this range but extends beyond 4 kHz. This is because the hypopharynx, especially the piriform fossa, affects the higher frequency region and contributes more to inter-speaker variation. By effectively shifting the higher bands to a lower frequency region, where speaker specific information is reduced, an effective 4 kHz bandwidth can be constructed to enhance speaker recognition performance. To achieve this a method was already proposed, which is extended in this paper to experimentally demonstrate and validate with more experiments. Furthermore, this paper defines the theoretically possible frequency space for which the frequency shifting method can be applied. To validate the method for different combinations of bands, possible bands were shifted in various directions in small steps. Speaker recognition experiments were conducted at each step to compare the performance against the baseband without any frequency shifting. Using the results of these extensive experiments, an approximate frequency space was defined where this frequency shifting performed better than the conventional baseband of 0-4 kHz signal. A simplified frequency shifting method was also investigated. Finally, the speech intelligibility of the frequency shifted narrow band speech signal was analysed using objective speech quality measures. This showed that intelligibility was not significantly affected by the frequency shifting method.
Effective removal of Pb(II) ions using Fe3O4/MgO adsorbent: A comprehensive study
 
Authors: Gurunanthanan V. , Wijayaratne K. B. , Dassanayake B. S. , Mantilaka P. G. , Perera C. S.
Published: October 2024

The effective removal of heavy metal ions, particularly Pb(II), from contaminated water sources remains a pressing environmental concern. This study explores the potential of Fe3O4/MgO nanocomposites as an efficient adsorbent for selective Pb(II) removal. The Fe3O4/MgO nanocomposite was synthesized using a controlled sol-gel method and characterized using various techniques. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the presence of cubic MgO and cubic Fe3O4. Pb(II) adsorption induced a crystallographic transformation, forming hexagonal Mg(OH)2 crystals, indicating interaction with the adsorbent. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) analysis revealed pyramid-like and irregular crystal morphologies. Pyramid-like structures provided a larger surface area and active sites for effective Pb(II) interaction, while irregular crystal particles, representing magnetic Fe3O4, contributed to stability and dispersibility. Vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) results confirmed superparamagnetic behaviour with a saturation magnetization of 32.02 emu g-1, indicating potential for magnetic separation and recovery in various wastewater treatment applications. Adsorption experiments utilized optimized conditions: an initial concentration of 600 mg L-1, adsorbent dosage of 0.25 g L-1, pH of 7, and 120 minutes of reaction time. The Fe3O4/MgO nanocomposite exhibited exceptional performance with a remarkable 99.98% removal efficiency and a high adsorption capacity of 2399.44 mg g-1. These impressive results underscore the outstanding adsorption potential of the nanocomposite. Adsorption kinetics followed the pseudo-second-order model (R2 = 0.99), confirming suitability for Pb(II) removal. The Freundlich model indicated a heterogeneous surface with different adsorption sites. Overall, the Fe3O4/MgO nanocomposite exhibits potential as a cost-effective, environmentally friendly adsorbent for removing Pb(II) ions, providing a promising solution for water purification and environmental remediation.
An efficient and improved algorithm for generating an equivalent planar architecture of the data vortex switch
Authors: Soni A. , Sharma N.
Published: October 2024

The data vortex (DV) switch was originally designed as an all optical interconnection network for high performance computing (HPC) applications. It was highly scalable with low latency and high throughput, compared to traditional switches used for optical packet switching (OPS) and HPC applications. The equivalent planar (chained MIN) model of the DV, proposed in previous literature, is a planar diagrammatic conversion of a 3-D model of the DV network. In this paper, we will focus on exploring a new, efficient and improved generalized algorithm that enables the arrangement of routing pathways to be implemented as an equivalent planar architecture (EPA, chained MIN) of a DV to find all possible routes between each source and target node pair. The original 3-D architecture of any size can be converted to a planar structure more simply by using the new generalized equivalent planar architecture (EPA) algorithm. To verify the proposed EPA algorithm, it was tested with different input traffic loads and network sizes while keeping the active angle ‘A’ constant. Network performance parameters, including injection rate (throughput) and latency (mean hops), obtained from simulation results are also provided to confirm the validity of the proposed EPA algorithm. This new algorithm is versatile, simple and can be applied to networks of various sizes.
Case Scenario: The Impact of Social Determinants of Health on LGBTQIA+ Patients
Authors: Rogers Sean , Sturtevant Jennifer , Armstrong Kirk
Published: October 2024

Context

There is a prominent need to include high-quality educational content within professional athletic training programs relevant to the unique needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) patients. Although the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Standards for Professional Programs details the requirement for diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice education (DEI 1 and 2), there is no specific requirement to include LGBTQIA+ content within the curriculum.

Objective

To detail a cased-based learning strategy to implement LGBTQIA+ content related to the social determinants of health within the curriculum.

Background

Athletic trainers and other healthcare professions have reported a lack in educational opportunities that would prepare them to competently provide care to LGBTQIA+ patients.

Description

This case scenario, and associated discussion and debrief questions, explores the intersection of minority stress and social determinants of health that negatively affect the health and well-being of an LGBTQIA+ patient, particularly in the secondary school setting.

Educational Advantages

Integrating active learning strategies allows students to engage in active thinking, group discussion, and clinical decision-making that prepare them better for clinical practice than passive learning strategies.

Conclusion

Intentional inclusion of LGBTQIA+ content within the curriculum will better prepare students to provide culturally competent care to LGBTQIA+ patients while fostering cultural humility.
Proposed enhanced gap analysis model for information systems sector (ISSERVQUAL)
Authors: Taha Raghda , Abdallah Khaled , Adel Yasmin
Published: October 2024

Orientation: Gap analysis in the information system (IS) sector is difficult to assess.Research purpose: A gap analysis model based on SERVQUAL is proposed to assess the gaps in IS services.Motivation for the study: During coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), there has been an extensive use of distant learning and virtual meeting applications. Yet, there is no well-documented way to evaluate the IS service provided.Research design, approach and method: The proposed model adds a performance dimension covering the main characteristics of IS services. The model is tested on the internet service providers in Egypt as a case study. A questionnaire for the proposed model is developed, validated and distributed.Main findings: The questionnaire is statistically analysed to find whether there is statistical difference between the expectation and the perception for each factor. Then the data are tested to find whether the gender of the respondents, internet service provider and the status of whether the respondent pays for the service themself have a significant effect on the gap scores or not. Finally, an ordinal regression fit is introduced to estimate the overall satisfaction of the customers based on their gap score.Practical/managerial implications: Despite SERVQUAL being an adequate tool to analyse the gaps for different services, it needs some adaptation to fit different services. One important drawback of SERVQUAL analysis for the IS sector is that the dimensions of SERVQUAL do not fully cover the customer expectations in the IS sector.Contribution/value-add: This paper attempts to fill this gap in the literature by introducing the ‘ISSERVQUAL’ model.
Exploring sustainable food supply chain management practices to enhance food security
Authors: Munuhwa Shakerod , Hove-Sibanda Progress
Published: October 2024

Background: The food industry faces longstanding challenges in meeting sustainability practices within its supply chain, often prioritising commercial obligations and profit motives. However, there is a growing recognition of the critical role that sustainable food supply chain management (SFSCM) practices play in enhancing food security.Objectives: This study aims to establish the significance of SFSCM practices in enhancing food security. Furthermore, the study explores approaches to reduce challenges against implementation of SFSCM practices.Method: The study employed a qualitative approach and used stratified and purposive sampling techniques to interview 22 participants from a population of 9 gatekeeper institutions within the Zimbabwean food industry.Results: The findings highlighted several essential SFSCM practices covering waste management, logistics optimisation, water and energy conservation, employing qualified individuals, carbon emission reduction, corporate social responsibility, cost reduction, pricing efficiency, fair food distribution and continuous consumer taste surveys. Approaches to reduce SFSCM implementation challenges were also identified, and these include stakeholder communication plans, capacity building programmes, integrating sustainability into mission statements, budget allocation, lobbying for government support, and fostering collaborative engagements. Open information sharing was also emphasised.Conclusion: It is concluded that the adoption of identified SFSCM practices by food producers, intermediaries, suppliers, consumers and other stakeholders can significantly enhance food security and minimise hunger in nations.Contribution: This article contributes to the understanding of addressing SFSCM implementation challenges and provides valuable insights into the importance of sustainable practices in improving food security within the Zimbabwean food industry and the world at large.
Aula virtual como recurso didáctico en la enseñanza del tópico evaluación de los aprendizajes
Authors: Linares Robles Francis Mercedes , Meléndez Sánchez Nathalie Joelia
Published: October 2024

Encontrar elementos innovadores, metodologías de trabajo y recursos digitales que impulsen la consolidación de esquemas de trabajos educativos efectivos, prácticos, duraderos y a la vanguardia de los nuevos tiempos se hace cada vez más presente en las instituciones de educación superior. El presente artículo tiene como propósito presentar la experiencia obtenida con los estudiantes de la asignatura práctica profesional II a través de un aula virtual orientada a la enseñanza del tópico evaluación de los aprendizajes con diferentes materiales educativos, dicha aula se enmarcó como un recurso didáctico de apoyo a las clases presenciales, bajo la modalidad b-learning durante el periodo lectivo I-2022 con soporte de la plataforma Google Classroom. El estudio se sustentó en un diseño no experimental de campo y tipo descriptivo, la recolección de los datos se obtuvó a partir de la técnica de la encuesta y como instrumento el cuestionario constitutivo de catorce preguntas cerradas. Finalmente, se valora positivamente el aula virtual como recurso didáctico, pues se considera útil para reforzar temas abordados en las sesiones presenciales, siendo un medio complementario de la enseñanza y aprendizaje con mayor flexibilidad que permite mejorar el rendimiento académico y aumentar la motivación.
The role of technology in the development of higher education in Ukraine in the context of global challenges
Authors: Malieiev Oleksandr , Kyslyi Vitalii , Prykhodko Dmytro , Babych Andrii , Yandola Krystyna
Published: October 2024

The article examines the role of technology in the evolution of higher education in Ukraine, with a particular focus on the challenges posed by global change. The author analyses the impact of digitalisation on the learning process, the organisation of educational activities and the interaction between students and teachers. The article discusses both the positive aspects of the introduction of digital tools, such as increased student engagement, curriculum flexibility and effective management of educational resources, and potential problems, such as technical difficulties, the need to improve the digital literacy of teachers and students, and the possible decline in the quality of education due to the use of low-quality teaching materials. The article is based on an empirical study of the introduction of digital technologies in higher education institutions, as well as on the results obtained in EU countries in 2022. The practical and theoretical implications of the study are discussed separately. This includes the development of recommendations for the integration of digital technologies into the educational process, as well as the development of educational theory in the context of digitalisation.
The effectiveness of interactive online courses for the speech competence development in non-language-major students
Authors: Bilichenko Alla , Martynenko Nadiia , Derevianko Liudmyla , Mizina Olha , Iatsyna Maksym
Published: October 2024

Interactive online courses are becoming increasingly popular among students studying foreign languages. The aim of the article is to analyse the effectiveness of interactive online courses in the speech competence development of non-language-major students. Research methods included student surveys, testing before and after the interactive online courses, mathematical statistics methods (t-test, Likert scale). The testing showed a significant improvement in the results of the experimental group (EG) that studied using interactive online courses (B2 – 43.5% of students, C1 – 21.7%, C2 – 21.7%). Online courses were found to provide valuable opportunities for real language practice with an average score of 3.6. The user interface and features were found to be user-friendly and easy to navigate, with an average score of 3.5. The variety of topics covered in the interactive online courses was identified as beneficial for general language skills, with an average score of 3.6. Flexibility in study planning was consistent with the benefits, receiving a high mean score of 3.8. The practical value of these results is their ability to improve the practice of foreign language learning. The results provide important insights into the effectiveness of interactive online courses.
Herramientas didácticas virtuales: la telefonía móvil como medio instruccional a nivel universitario
Authors: Rodríguez Argenis , Corral Yadira , Alonzo Liliana
Published: October 2024

Se ha evidenciado la utilidad de los dispositivos de telefonía celular móvil como medio instruccional accesible para la enseñanza aprendizaje en general. Sin embargo, es de provecho conocer cómo pueden servir de ayuda en el ámbito universitario. El presente artículo se propone, de forma sucinta, analizar las herramientas didácticas virtuales empleadas a través de la telefonía móvil como medio instruccional de apoyo en el proceso de enseñanza aprendizaje a nivel universitario. Metodológicamente, se trata de una investigación documental descriptiva. Se concluye que la telefonía móvil proporciona un instrumento educativo importante en la mediación del aprendizaje entre docentes y estudiantes, así como también con otros individuos en el contexto educativo.
Apps gamificadas en el aula de matemáticas
Authors: Vergara Rodríguez Diego , Domínguez Zapatero César , Castro López Patricia , Rodríguez-Calzada Lorena
Published: October 2024

La integración de elementos de gamificación en los entornos educativos se encuentra en constante crecimiento, siendo evidente la proliferación de aplicaciones informáticas diseñadas con este propósito. Es pertinente resaltar que, particularmente en el ámbito de las matemáticas, el panorama de opciones específicas es limitado. En este contexto, el presente estudio tiene como objetivo principal examinar el contenido y las características de las aplicaciones utilizadas en la enseñanza secundaria, en relación con los criterios fundamentales establecidos por la pirámide de Werbach & Hunter, marco de referencia en este ámbito. Para llevar a cabo este análisis se ha seleccionado un conjunto representativo de las aplicaciones más empleadas hasta la fecha en el contexto de la gamificación educativa, además de otra específicamente diseñada para el aprendizaje de las matemáticas. Los resultados obtenidos revelan un nivel adecuado de cumplimiento de los tres elementos fundamentales propuestos por dicho marco: dinámicas, mecánicas y componentes; si bien se identifican ciertas variaciones entre las distintas aplicaciones examinadas. A partir de esta evaluación, se puede concluir que se ha experimentado un notable progreso en el desarrollo y la programación de aplicaciones gamificadas, observándose una tendencia hacia la adopción de enfoques educativos atractivos y metodologías efectivas para el aprendizaje.
Competencias digitales en estudiantes de ingeniería: Análisis del uso y percepción de herramientas tecnológicas
Authors: González Torres Arturo , Ramírez Castañeda Iscander Armando , Brauer Aguilar Martha Susana
Published: October 2024

El artículo tiene como objetivo explorar el uso y percepción de herramientas digitales en estudiantes de ingeniería de primer semestre. La metodología empleada fue cuantitativa, con un enfoque exploratorio y descriptivo. Se utilizó un instrumento de medición validado con un alto coeficiente de fiabilidad (Alfa de Cronbach de 0.963) para evaluar el desarrollo de las competencias clave en el ámbito profesional, se considerarán cuatro dimensiones: manejo estratégico de la información, comunicación eficaz, dominio de herramientas tecnológicas y capacidad organizativa. Los hallazgos más relevantes incluyen: Un nivel moderado de competencia digital entre los estudiantes, con un promedio general de 62.74% en el uso de herramientas digitales. Los resultados de esta investigación revelan que, a pesar de una aparente familiaridad con las herramientas tecnológicas, los futuros ingenieros presentan oportunidades de desarrollo en sus competencias digitales, especialmente en el ámbito académico.
Effectiveness of using digital interactive projection media systems in teaching vocational subjects and in professional activities
Authors: Alekseiko Vitalii , Savina Inna , Khallo Oleksandra , Ihnatenko Oleksandr , Andreikova Iryna
Published: October 2024

The article shows the technology's effectiveness and reveals the students' readiness to use digital interactive projection media systems in educational and professional activities. The content of the interactive education process and its components are disclosed. The essence and significance of digital interactive projection media systems in teaching professional subjects are shown. As an example of digital interactive projection systems, an effective interactive software-technological complex based on SMART Board is shown, the interactive functions of the interactive SMART Board software created specifically for the educational space in teaching vocational subjects and the advantages of the interactive panel in the educational space of a higher school are revealed. Ways of developing the teacher's professional competencies when using an interactive panel or blackboard in classes at a higher school are analyzed. The effectiveness of electronic textbooks, manuals electronic educational and methodological complexes, informative and reference multimedia publications, game educational and developmental publications, scientific research STEM centers, multimedia classes, virtual laboratories, virtual classes, etc. in teaching vocational subjects is shown.
Pedagogical Strategies in Teaching and Learning through English as Medium of Instruction at Lower Primary Level in Rwanda
Authors: Yvonne Ingabire Marie , Nizeyimana Gabriel , Mukingambeho Delphine , Tusiime Michael
Published: October 2024

This study investigated about pedagogical strategies in teaching and learning through English as medium of instruction at lower primary level in Musanze District, Rwanda, through the phenomenological design. Out of 117 schools, the study sampled six schools, based on their location and status. Out of the population of 3738 subjects, the respondents were 12 teachers and 317 learners. Instruments for data collection included non-participant classroom observations, semi-structured interviews with teachers and focus group discussions with learners. Data analysis took place thematically by grouping information into categories and sub-categories based on the types of information they held. The study concluded that after the re-introduction of English as Medium of Instructions, teachers and learners opted specific strategies to enhance the teaching-learning interaction. While teachers code switched from Kinyarwanda and English and vice versa, poor translation or interpretation led to misconception and misunderstanding of intended meaning. On the other hand, the learners’ strategies included memorization, constant repetition, learning through songs and games, group work discussions and debates. Based on the conclusions, the study recommends that teachers should strive to improve their level of proficiency in English as Medium of Instruction by attending English training sessions organized by the Rwanda Basic Education Board (REB). Learners need to minimize the use of memorization, which does not provide room for critical thinking. Finally, REB has to prepare strategic manuals with recommended teaching and learning strategies for effective interaction during the teaching-learning process.
Perspectives of Social Anxiety in Relation to Academic Performance among Undergraduate Students in Zanzibar
Authors: Ramadhan Khamis Abdulfatah , Mzee Mwita Hafsa , Lubawa Dorothy
Published: October 2024

This study dealt with perspectives of social anxiety in relation to academic performance among undergraduate students in Zanzibar. The study employed the descriptive design. The study purposely selected three out of six universities. The total population was 5,600 students from which the researchers selected a sample size of 230 subjects. The study used a questionnaire and an interview schedule as data collection tools. Data analysis took place through descriptive statistics and content analysis approach. Based on the findings, the study concludes that social anxiety is prevalent among university students in Zanzibar. Most of the students experienced moderate level of social anxiety with basic symptoms like reduced engagement in class activities and fear of public speaking. Only a few exhibited mild to severe symptoms of social anxiety. The study recommends that universities in Zanzibar should provide students’ access to mental health services, providing counseling and therapy options to students with social anxiety. The universities should also provide workshops on stress management for students to managee their social anxiety symptoms effectively. They should also develop initiatives that promote inclusive and supportive classroom settings in terms of peer mentoring and group study sessions to reduce the participation and public speaking pressure.
Influence of Demographic Factors on Loan Portfolio Quality in the Savings and Credit Cooperatives Societies in Tanzania
Authors: Mwaipaja Festo , Magali Joseph
Published: October 2024

This study determined the influence of demographic factors on loan portfolio quality in Tanzania, focusing on the Hazina SACCOS. The sample of the study was 134 out of 423 borrowers from Dar es saalam and Dodoma cities, whose loans did not exceed Tanzanian Shillings 5 millions. Only 100 questionnaire sheets were returned. Out of those, only 75 were correctly filled, hence used for analysis. Data analysis took place through descriptive and regression analysis. The study concludes that demographic factors affected loan portfolio in different ways. While female borrowers had higher loan repayment rates than their male counterparts, younger, employed, business operators and married borrowers repaid their loans earlier than their counterparts, which promoted the loan portfolio quality. Borrowers with higher education and more dependents had a loan repayment challenge, which weakened the loan portfolio quality. Therefore, loan profitability relates with demographic factors. In order to promote earlier loan repayment, hence loan portfolio quality, the SACCOS should offer demographic-centric financial products and support programs. The SACCOS should offer loans to meet the employment diversity, including flexible loan terms to accommodate wage-employed, self-employed and other employed members. Tailored financial counseling, flexible loan terms and practical financial management training could help mitigate the negative impacts observed in the study.
Migration and Settlement of Ethnic Communities in Relation to Land Question in Laikipia County, Kenya
Authors: Barasa Namunyu Bradley , Godfrey Okoth Pontian , Muchanga Kizito
Published: October 2024

Laikipia County experienced the land question arising from migration and settlement that stretched over a century. In spite of intervention measures the problem escalated. This study, therefore, sought to establish why migration and settlement of the ethnic communities generated the land question in Laikipia County. The study was hinged on the instrumentalism and articulation of modes of production theories, using the historical research design. The study established that pre-colonial, colonial and post-colonial migrations and settlements of the Pokot, Tugen, Ndorobo, Maasai, Somali, Kisii, Meru, Agikuyu, Europeans and Samburu led to the rise of the land question in Laikipia County. The study recommends that both the Laikipia County assembly and Kenyan national assembly should enact laws that protect pre-colonial, colonial and post-colonial land holding rights. This will fix the land question among the ethnic groups residing in Laikipia County.
Ethical Dilemmas in African Human Resource Management: A Literature Review
Authors: Matimbwa Hadija , Kamala Mugisha
Published: October 2024

In the African context, the management of human resources (HR) involves the navigation of intricate ethical issues influenced by a myriad of social, cultural and economic factors. This study, based on systematic literature review, scrutinized ethical dilemmas in Human Resources Management in Africa. Specifically, the study assessed the areas within HR practices that are predisposed to unethical conduct and identified the core ethical issues prevalent in organizations, thereby giving rise to ethical dilemmas. The study utilized a systematic qualitative synthesis, employing the nomothetic-based content analysis, to scrutinize data extracted from 65 journal articles. The findings delineate two primary domains in which HR practices are susceptible to unethical conduct. The first is the management of core HR functions, such as recruitment, performance appraisal and remuneration, which are vulnerable to unethical practices like favoritism and corruption. The second domain involves balancing the often-conflicting interests of employers and employees. Four primary ethical issues emerged as significant sources of dilemmas: bribery and corruption, misconduct (physical, verbal, and sexual), nepotism and discrimination. These challenges suggest a pressing need for transparent, merit-based recruitment processes and regular ethics training HR professionals to navigate the complex landscape of organizational and employee interests. Implementing gender and diversity policies is crucial in addressing discrimination based on gender, ethnicity or disability. Additionally, establishing robust whistle-blowing mechanisms can enable employees to report unethical conduct confidentially, thereby strengthening organizational integrity and fostering a more inclusive professional environment. Comprehensive ethical frameworks will not only mitigate dilemmas but also enhance the overall credibility and effectiveness of HRM practices in the African context.
Causes and Remedies for Secondary School Learners’ Low English Speaking Proficiency in Musanze District, Rwanda
Authors: Nyirahabineza Pascasie , Cyprien Tabaro , Gloriose Mugirase
Published: October 2024

This study sought to explore causes and remedies for secondary school learners ’low speaking proficiency in English in Musanze District, Rwanda, using the quantitative approach. Out of the population of 459 teachers and students in three selected schools, the study sampled 27 teachers and 81 students, making a sample of 108 through purposive and random sampling. The questionnaire data was edited, coded, summarized and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences in terms of descriptive statistic. The study concluded that low proficiency in English speaking was due to shyness to practice speaking, lack of English clubs and lack of speaking motivation. Being in an endoglossic country, the students preferred to use their mother tongue (Kinyarwanda) most of their time and were fearful of criticism in attempt to speaking in English. English club and inter-class debate clubs provided positive effect in improving students’ fluency. Therefore, English clubs and inter-class debate clubs constitute a suitable initiative to improve students’ English speaking ability. Therefore, it is important for schools to establish and sustain English club and inter-class debate clubs which will improve the English fluency of students.
Teachers and Students’ Awareness of Re-Entry of Mother-Students Policy in Public Secondary Schools in Dodoma City, Tanzania
Authors: Lweyemamu Laurencio Deus , Gervas Imelda , S. Nyinondi Onesmo
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the awareness levels among teachers and students regarding the re-entry policy for mother-students in public secondary schools in Dodoma City, Tanzania. The study employed a descriptive research design. A purposive sampling method was employed to select 10 of these 35 schools, ensuring a diverse representation from different areas within the city. The selected schools' population included 11,329 students and 512 teachers, from whom a sample of 489 students and 104 teachers was drawn. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire and analyzed through descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test. Based on the findings, the study concludes that gender and students’ education level determine the awareness of re-entry policies. Those students in higher classes had greater exposure to the policies than those in lower classes. Therefore, educational mobility expands individuals' access to policy discussion, calling for specific interventions among females and lower classes. The study suggests that professional development programs must increase teachers’ understanding of the re-entry policies, especially for female teachers. The school curriculums should introduce an extensive advocacy program for lower-level classes and girls. A fair outreach must be undertaken so that students, regardless of their socio-economic background, can know about reentry policies.
Assessment Beliefs, Practices and Competence Vis-À-Vis Demographic Characteristics of Senior High School Social Studies Teachers in Ghana
Authors: Awuah Frank , Effeh Attom Lucy , Eshun Isaac , Bordoh Anthony
Published: October 2024

This study examined the impact of demographic factors on the assessment beliefs, practices and competence of Social Studies teachers in selected Senior High / Technical Schools in the Volta and Oti Regions of Ghana. The study was guided by the Human Capital Theory (HCT). It utilized a quantitative research approach and a cross-sectional research design. Employing a two-stage simple random sampling method, 196 Social Studies teachers were randomly selected from 80 Senior High Schools (SHS) and Senior High Technical Schools (SHTS) in the Regions. Data was collected through a questionnaire, covering the participants’ demographic information and assessment beliefs, practices and competence. Statistical data treatment was done through frequency distributions. It was displayed using a contingency table and Cramer's V analysis. Findings indicated no significant correlation between the teachers’ gender, educational background, teaching experience, assessment beliefs, practices and competence. The study concludes that the demographic did not influence the teachers’ assessment beliefs. Based on the conclusions, it is recommended that professional development should focus on individualized training that targets specific needs of teachers in assessment literacy rather than generalizing based on demographic factors. This could help foster more robust and consistent assessment beliefs across the teaching population. In addition, teacher education programs should prioritize skills-based training on contemporary assessment methodologies and address competency gaps regardless of demographic factors.
Knowledge And Attitude Towards Pharmacovigilance Among Nurses
Authors: Priya K. , Priyadharshini M. , Bavanisha A.
Published: October 2024

Pharmacovigilance is the science of tracking and managing side effects or medication-related problems. It focuses on detecting, assessing, and preventing adverse effects of drugs. Aim: To determine how nurses feel about pharmacovigilance and their knowledge of it. Methods: A quantitative descriptive study was conducted among nurses at ACSMCH and SLMCH. A self-designed questionnaire (10 items) and a 5-point Likert scale (12 items) were used to measure knowledge and attitudes. Data was gathered through Google Forms and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Out of the participants, 74 (67.3%) were female, 97 (88.2%) were under 30 years old, 58 (52.7%) held a B.Sc. in Nursing, 88 (80%) had less than 5 years of experience, 43 (39.1%) were currently employed in a medical ward, and 37 (33.6%) had previous experience in a medical ward. Regarding knowledge of pharmacovigilance, 45 (40.9%) had inadequate knowledge, 42 (38.2%) demonstrated moderately adequate knowledge, and 23 (20.9%) had sufficient knowledge. In terms of attitude towards pharmacovigilance, 76 (69.1%) exhibited a favorable attitude, 27 (24.5%) had a moderately favorable attitude, and 7 (6.4%) showed an unfavorable attitude. Educational qualification (χ² = 13.275, p = 0.010) was found to have a statistically significant association with the level of knowledge. Similarly, gender (χ² = 10.693, p = 0.005) and educational qualification (χ² = 9.590, p = 0.048) were significantly associated with the level of attitude. Discussion & Implications: These findings are consistent with Veena et al. (2020), underscoring the need to increase awareness among nurses. Early interventions, such as regular classes, continuous education, and workshops on pharmacovigilance, should be implemented to improve knowledge. Conclusion: The study revealed that while nurses generally have an insufficient understanding of pharmacovigilance, they maintain a positive attitude toward reporting adverse drug reactions (ADRs).
A Study Of Accreditation Status Synchronization And Regional Public Service Agency As A Model Of Public Health Service (Puskesmas) Management Improvement
Authors: Alesa Nelly , Kamaludin Kamaludin , Suthia Hayu Rina , Agustina Ekaputri Retno
Published: October 2024

Indonesia still has public health centre (Puskesmas) health care issues. The data from Bengkulu is comparable to those from the national level. It shows that Puskesmas has not maximised gatekeeping. We need responsible Puskesmas management and high-quality, sustainable health care to address these problems. Pushesmas' accreditation and Regional Public Service Agency status help the government improve Puskesmas administration. We need a synchronization model because we implement accreditation and BLUD separately. Given the current situation, this study explores potential synchronization strategies between accreditation and BLUD to enhance Puskesmas management. The study describes the condition of accredited and BLUD Puskesmas, identifies the problems, investigates the role capabilities of the parties involved, seeks to synchronise Puskesmas management, and formulates a strategy to improve management. This qualitative descriptive research uses a case study approach with purposive sampling to examine Puskesmas, an accredited and BLUD school in Bengkulu Province. Researchers conduct in-depth interviews, observations, library studies, and documentation. Researchers analyse data through collection, reduction, presentation, and verification or conclusion. They also triangulate data, sources, and procedures for data validity analysis. This research created a Puskesmas Management Improvement Strategy Model as a Novelty
Algebraic Enumeration of Polypolyhedra
Authors: Henderson-Walshe George , Langton Michael , McLeod Jeanette , Wilson Phillip
Published: October 2024

Polypolyhedra are edge-transitive compounds of polyhedra. In this paper we use group theory to determine the number of distinct polypolyhedra whose symmetry group is any given finite irreducible Coxeter group. We apply this result in order to enumerate the 3-dimensional polypolyhedra.