bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dukungan manajemen peningkatan kesehatan mental remaja berbasis character and communication training
Authors: Astuti Andriani Mei , Probowati Rovica , Wicaksono Yoga Bima , Nurlaili Taniza Devita Putri
Published: December 2024

Kesehatan mental merupakan bagian yang tidak terpisahkan dari kesehatan jasmani dan merupakan unsur utama dalam menunjang terwujudnya kualitas hidup manusia yang utuh. Pada masa remaja terjadi perubahan biologis, psikologis maupun sosial, tetapi umumnya proses pematangan fisik terjadi lebih cepat dari proses pematangan kejiwaan (psikososial). Remaja berhadapan dengan berbagai perubahan yang sedang terjadi dalam dirinya maupun target perkembangan yang harus dicapai sesuai usianya. Tujuan dari kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat ini untuk meningkatkan ketahanan kesehatan mental remaja dengan literasi kesehatan mental dengan program dukungan kesehatan mental remaja melalui kegiatan komunikasi, informasi dan edukasi berbasis Character And Communication Training (CCT). Metode yang digunakan adalah metode PAR (Participatory Action Research) dengan melakukan skrining kesehatan mental menggunakan Self Reporting Questionare-29 (SRQ-29), edukasi tatalaksana penangganan gangguan mental pada remaja serta melatih cara komunikasi guna meningkatkan kepercayaan diri pada remaja.. Kegiatan ini dihadiri oleh 28 remaja yang diberikan kuesioner sebelum dan sesudah kegiatan. Hasil analisis peningkatan rata-rata skor pengetahuan siswa terkait dukungan psikososial remaja dengan nilai pre test 48,28% dan post test sebesar 72,55%. Hasil skrining SRQ-29 menunjukkan sebagian besar siswa mengalami post traumatic stress disorder karena kejadian KDRT..  Kesimpulan tim pengabdian kepada masyarakat secara proses sudah dilakukan berdasarkan tahapan yang telah direncanakan. Saran kepada remaja untuk lebih meningkatkan literasi tentang perkembangan dukungan psikososial pada remaja.
Transformasi digital pemberdayaan BUMDes: Optimalisasi potensi desa melalui sistem informasi marketplace
Authors: Ramdhan Nur Ariesanto , Syaifulloh Muhammad , Ujianto Nur Tulus , Faqih Abdulah , Apriliani Rosema Dina
Published: December 2024

Kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat ini bertujuan untuk memberdayakan Badan Usaha Milik Desa (BUMDes) Jaya Makmur Desa Trayeman, Kecamatan Slawi, Kabupaten Tegal, didirikan sebagai upaya untuk meningkatkan kesejahteraan masyarakat desa melalui pengelolaan usaha berbasis kebutuhan lokal, seperti pembesaran ternak kambing dengan sistem fermentasi dan penyewaan gedung serbaguna. Meskipun BUMDes ini telah beroperasi sejak tahun 2019 dan berbadan hukum pada tahun 2021, pengelolaannya masih menghadapi tantangan dalam hal pemasaran digital dan manajemen keuangan yang efektif. Program pengabdian masyarakat ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan kapasitas pengelola BUMDes melalui serangkaian pelatihan dan pendampingan. Fokus utama program ini adalah penerapan manajemen usaha berbasis teknologi informasi yang mencakup pelatihan digital marketing, penggunaan media sosial, serta pengelolaan keuangan secara digital. Pengembangan ekosistem digital juga dilakukan dengan membangun dan mengimplementasikan sistem informasi berbasis website serta aplikasi "SIBAU" Desa Marketplace untuk memperluas jangkauan pemasaran produk BUMDes. Diharapkan, dengan optimalisasi teknologi ini, BUMDes Jaya Makmur dapat meningkatkan efisiensi operasional, stabilitas penjualan, dan pendapatan, yang pada akhirnya akan memberikan kontribusi signifikan terhadap pertumbuhan ekonomi lokal dan kesejahteraan masyarakat Desa Trayeman.
The Effectiveness of Panel Discussion on Senior High School Students' Speaking Skills
Authors: Vickry Fachreza Aprileo , Laeli Anita Fatimatul , Nuraini Kristi
Published: December 2024

This research aims to determine the effect of panel discussion on the speaking skills of 2nd-grade senior high school students. This research employed a quantitative method using a quasi-experimental design, where the subjects were not randomly assigned to the treatment group. The instrument used to collect data for this research was a rubric focusing on criteria such as content, fluency, pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar, which scores the students' speaking skills based on the speaking test. The researcher used a subjective test to measure the students' speaking skills in this test. In the control group (XI-9), pre-test scores ranged from 40 to 68, with a mean of 50.86, and post-test scores ranged from 40 to 72, with a mean of 57.49. In the experimental group (XI-10), pre-test scores ranged from 40 to 76, with a mean of 55.43, and post-test scores ranged from 40 to 84, with a mean of 70.60. The results indicated that panel discussion significantly improved students' speaking skills. For future research, it is suggested that more of the scope sample be explored and that the research be longer than this one to get a more comprehensive result. In addition, more research must be done to advance the impact of the panel discussion on other English skills.
Effectiveness of the Quizizz Application in Improving Students' Reading Comprehension at SMP Darul Falah
Authors: Adi Mohammad Sofyan
Published: December 2024

This research investigates the effectiveness of the Quizizz application in enhancing students' reading comprehension at SMP Darul Falah. A quasi-experimental design was employed, involving two groups of seventh-grade students: an experimental group using Quizizz and a control group utilizing Google Forms for learning recount texts. The methodology includes pre-tests and post-tests to measure reading comprehension, with statistical analysis conducted using SPSS. The findings reveal that the experimental group, which utilized Quizizz, exhibited significant improvement in reading comprehension compared to the control group. Normality and homogeneity tests confirm the reliability of the data, and the Mann-Whitney U test indicates a significant difference in outcomes between the two groups. Based on the study's results, it can be concluded that Quizizz is an effective medium for teaching reading comprehension, offering a more engaging and motivating learning experience compared to traditional methods. These findings suggest that incorporating interactive and gamified tools like Quizizz can greatly enhance educational practices and improve student performance in reading comprehension.
Utilization and Challenges of Using ICT at SPM Al-Mashduqiah: Perception of English Teachers
Authors: Ekowijayanto Mochlis , Sulala Warda Anis , Rifka Rifka , Nisa' Ulvatun
Published: December 2024

The use of technology in English learning is becoming increasingly crucial to achieve optimal learning outcomes. This study aims to explore teachers' perceptions regarding the use and challenges of using Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in English learning at SPM Al-Mashduqiah. Using a qualitative method with a case study type, this study focuses on the perception of English teachers in the school as the subject of the study. Data were obtained through semi-structured interviews, observations, and documentation, which were then analyzed using a descriptive approach to describe and interpret the teacher's experiences and views in detail. The findings reveal that teachers have been utilizing ICT in various aspects of English learning, including the use of learning apps, interactive videos, and online platforms for assignments and evaluations. However, teachers face several challenges, such as limited facilities, lack of technical training, and resistance to changes from traditional teaching methods. Teachers' perceptions of ICT utilization vary; most view ICT as a tool capable of increasing student engagement and learning effectiveness, while others feel burdened by the need to master new technologies in their use in English learning. The study concludes that although the use of ICT in English learning at SPM Al-Mashduqiah has great potential to improve the quality of education, further efforts are needed to address existing challenges, including increased facility support and ongoing training for teachers. These findings are expected to provide valuable insights for policymakers and education practitioners in designing effective strategies for ICT integration, making an English learning more enjoyable and effective.
STEM and International Trade in a Gender Perspective: The Cases of Brazil, Chile, and Mexico
Authors: Blanco Varela Bruno , Campos-Romero Hugo , Amoedo José Manuel
Published: December 2024

The development of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers in Latin America plays a critical role in fostering technological progress and innovation, thereby enhancing economic growth and competitiveness through trade, which, in turn, stimulates investments in R&D. This study explores the influence of economic opportunities presented by international trade on the gender gap among STEM-trained professionals. The findings reveal that exports of high-value-added services contribute positively to the labour market inclusion of women. Despite this progress, gender segregation continues to be a major barrier to bridging the gender gap, indicating a persistent adherence to traditional gender roles.
Regulação, Inovação e Coevolução Nos Sistemas Financeiros: Uma Análise do Impacto da Regulação de Ofertas com Esforços Restritos sobre o Financiamento de Longo Prazo no Brasil (2009 – 2021)
Authors: Gomes da Rosa Ledson Luiz , Montani Martins Norberto
Published: December 2024

Os meios de financiamento privado no Brasil foram, por um longo período, pouco expressivos para a composição do endividamento das empresas. Por meio das ofertas públicas com esforços restritos, regulamentadas em 2009, viabilizou-se a captação das empresas de uma maneira mais simplificada e menos onerosa. O objetivo geral do presente trabalho é analisar como a adoção da oferta de valores mobiliários com esforços restritos impactou a oferta de financiamento de longo prazo no Brasil no período entre 2009 e 2021. Mais especificamente, o trabalho busca avaliar, a partir de um referencial minskyano-evolucionário, como o setor bancário brasileiro valeu-se da oferta com esforços restritos para promover instrumentos de financiamento de longo prazo, com foco no mercado de debêntures. Conclui-se que as ofertas com esforços restritos reconfiguraram o mercado de financiamento de longo prazo, permitindo que as debêntures – um instrumento de captação via mercado de capitais – fossem operadas pelos bancos como uma extensão do crédito tradicional, criando-se um híbrido funcional à lucratividade das instituições financeiras e, ao mesmo tempo, atrativo às empresas.
Keynesian and post-Keynesian models on banks in Africa
Authors: Tche Jacob
Published: December 2024

In the present paper, we aim at filling the lacuna created by the lack of a multiplicity of empirical works on Keynesian and Post-Keynesian models on banks in Africa. Based on the case of banks and economic growth in 20 Sub-Sahara African countries for the 1990-2021periods, we employ the Granger causality tests in heterogeneous panels developed by Dumitrescu and Hurlin (2012), the Fixed Effect Ordinary Least Squares method, the Mean Group Method and the Generalized Method of Moments to conclude that, in the short and long run, economic growth precedes banks development  as justified by Keynesian and Post-Keynesian bank models.
Instant payments and brazilian pix: lessons from the indian experience in the 2010’s
Authors: Camacho Tatiana , Silva Guilherme Jonas Costa da Silva
Published: December 2024

Instant payments are part of an ecosystem of financial innovations, promoting quick and easy access to funds. Through Nonlinear Distributed Lag Autoregressive Models (NARDL), this article aims to draw lessons from the Indian experience with the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), for the Brazilian Pix. The empirical results show that the substitutes for instant payments (credit and debit cards) have a complementary character, while the measure of relative popularity of mobile banking (MB/WLESS) and degree of sophistication of the financial system (M1/GDP) has immediate effects on these flows. Short-term negative asymmetric shocks had greater impacts on instant payment systems.
Moderna Teoria Monetária: críticas à luz da economia institucional originária e do debate macroeconômico não-mainstream
Authors: Klink Jan , Santos Carneiro Gabriel , Castro Dias da Fonseca Bruno
Published: December 2024

O presente trabalho tem por objetivo se inserir no debate contemporâneo em torno das proposições aventadas pela Modern Monetary Theory (MMT) e as críticas oriundas do campo não-mainstream. A proposição central do artigo é a de que a MMT pode ganhar maior robustez e consistência teórica frente às críticas por meio da recuperação e incorporação de ideias da Economia Institucional Radical presentes nos trabalhos de Karl Polanyi e Thorstein Veblen. Para tanto, após breve introdução, o trabalho realiza uma síntese teórica de alguns dos principais conceitos destes autores, seguida por uma apresentação das ideias gerais da MMT. Em sequência, são abordadas algumas críticas às proposições da MMT, que exemplificam a ausência de um tratamento do impacto das instituições na configuração de estados e trajetórias macroeconômicas. Nesse sentido, a retomada do enfoque dessa importante dimensão do institucionalismo originário pode contribuir com a conformação de agenda de pesquisa profícua ao MMT.
Preferência pela liquidez e aplicações financeiras das pessoas físicas no brasil: uma análise por segmentos de aplicadores (2014-2021)
Authors: Rodrigues Roberto , Araujo Elisangela
Published: December 2024

Este trabalho analisa o comportamento das aplicações financeiras das pessoas físicas no Brasil entre 2014 e 2021 à luz dos principais indicadores macroeconômicos e sob a perspectiva keynesiana da preferência pela liquidez. A hipótese é que a lógica curto-prazista dos investidores continuou preponderante, a despeito da mudança brusca das condições econômicas, em especial, a vigência de taxas de juros historicamente baixas no período. A metodologia contempla três partes: uma análise teórica, com o marco analítico da teoria keynesiana; uma contextualização do tema, e, por fim; uma investigação empírica para compreender os determinantes das aplicações financeiras. Os principais resultados da pesquisa evidenciaram que a preferência pela liquidez e os motivos para demandar moeda tem relação com a dotação patrimonial, com prevalência do motivo precaução e maior preferência pela liquidez para os segmentos de menor renda, e prevalência do motivo especulação e menor preferência pela liquidez, para o segmento de maior renda.
Mitochondrial (dys) function: a double edge sword in cell stress response
Authors: Guaragnella Nicoletta , Di Noia Maria Antonietta , Primavera Angela
Published: December 2024

Mitochondria are multifaceted organelles acting as energy, metabolic and signaling hubs in the cells. They play a central role in biological processes aimed at maintaining cell homeostasis and regulating cell fate upon changing environments. Alterations in mitochondrial functions can affect cell stress response through different mechanisms, leading to adaptation or death. In this perspective, we focus on mitochondrial communication and its relevance for cytoprotective strategies aimed at controlling synthesis, degradation and recycling processes. The advantage of using yeast as a model organism for improving our understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind cell stress responses to mitochondrial dysfunction is described. New challenges for studying the interplay between mitochondrial retrograde signaling and autophagy/mitophagy pathways are highlighted.
Prolonged fecal shedding of replication-competent virus, lasting immune activation, and intestinal inflammation in a rhesus macaque after experimental SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Böszörményi Kinga P. , Stammes Marieke A. , Fagrouch Zahra , Acar Fidel , Niphuis Henk , Kayere Gwendoline Kiemenyi , Meijer Lisette , Snijder Eric J. , van der Hoek Lia , Berkhout Ben , Bogers Willy M. , van den Brand Judith M. A. , Kondova Ivanela , Verstrepen Babs E. , Verschoor Ernst J.
Published: December 2024

Infection of an adult rhesus macaque with SARS-CoV-2 led to viral RNAemia in nose, throat, and lungs. The animal also presented extended fecal shedding of viral genomic and subgenomic messenger RNA and replication-competent virus for more than 3 weeks after infection. Positron emission tomography revealed increased intestinal glucose metabolism which was histologically related to inflammation of the ileum. These findings highlight the potential of the virus to cause gastrointestinal infections in macaques like this is also regularly observed in COVID-19 patients and substantiates the probability of virus transmission via the fecal-oral route. This study further adds the importance of nonhuman primates as a valuable animal model to study SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans.
Deciphering climate variability trends: unveiling the impact on household staple crop productivity in East Wallaga Zone, Ethiopia
Authors: Kumsa Dereje Chimdessa , Tesso Admassu , Tolera Dereje
Published: December 2024

This study looks at how Ethiopia’s East Wallaga Zone’s staple crop yields are affected by climate variability between 1990 and 2022. The main goal is to evaluate the effects of temperature and precipitation variations on the production of important crops, namely wheat and teff, in the highlands, midlands, and lowlands of various agroecological zones.The Ethiopian Meteorological Institute, CHIRPS, and TerraClimate were the sources of the climate data used to provide a thorough picture of the trends in temperature and precipitation during the study period. Significant spatiotemporal changes in the research area’s climate patterns were found through data analysis. To measure these fluctuations, important metrics like precipitation concentration, rainfall anomaly indices, and coefficients of variation were computed. Crop yield data from the Zonal Agricultural Office was also used in the study. A regression model was used to examine the association between climatic conditions and crop yields. With a response rate of 95% and a sample size that contained information from each of the three agroecological zones, strong statistical analysis was guaranteed.An 8.2% coefficient of variation in precipitation is one of the significant findings, indicating subtle but important changes in rainfall patterns, namely in the quantity and timing of wet days. Furthermore, a discernible rise in both minimum and maximum temperatures has occurred, particularly in lowland regions, and this has had an additional impact on crop yield.The research comes to the conclusion that although meteorological conditions have a major influence on crop yields, non-climatic factors including soil fertility, agronomic techniques, and technology improvements also have a major impact. The study suggests a three-pronged strategy to reduce the negative effects of climate change on agriculture: raising fertilizer use, strengthening agronomic practices, and increasing soil fertility. The report also emphasizes how important it is to combine measures for adapting to climate change with initiatives to resolve political unrest and advance sustainable agricultural methods.It is recommended that policymakers give equal weight to measures aimed at mitigating and adapting to climate change in order to enhance agricultural productivity and guarantee food security in the area. In East Wallaga Zone and elsewhere, this strategy is crucial for improving lives and feeding the constantly expanding population.
An evaluation of methods for detecting false data injection attacks in the smart grid
Authors: Paudel Sarita
Published: December 2024

With the introduction of new Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to Electrical Power Systems (EPSs) there is an increased potential and impact of cyber-attacks. Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs) enable very fine granular measurements to allow situational awareness in smart grids. But false data injection attacks, which manipulate measurement data, can trigger wrong decisions and cause critical situations in the grid. In this paper, we analyze four different false data injection attacks on PMU measurements and investigate different methods to detect such attacks. Classical bad data detection methods are not sufficient to detect stealthy attacks. We therefore propose to complement detection by additional methods. For this we analyze the detection performance of four very different detection methods: (a) the classical adaptive bad data detection approach based on the residuals of linear Kalman Filters, (b) a simple threshold based on the Median Average Deviation (MAD), (c) a distribution-based approach using the Kullback-Leibler Divergence (KLD), and (d) the cumulative sum (CUSUM) as a representative of a change point detection method. We show that each method has advantages and disadvantages and that multiple methods should be used together to prevent that attackers can circumvent detection.
Cardiac cells and mesenchymal stem cells derived extracellular vesicles: a potential therapeutic strategy for myocardial infarction
Authors: Qin Dan , Wang Xiaobo , Pu Jun , Hu Houxiang
Published: December 2024

Despite improvements in clinical outcomes of acute myocardial infarction (AMI), mortality rates remain high, indicating the need for further understanding of the pathogenesis and developing more effective cardiac protection strategies. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) carry proteins and noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) derived from different cardiac cell populations, mainly including cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells, endothelial progenitor cells, cardiac progenitor cells, cardiosphere-derived cells, immune cells, fibroblasts and cardiac telocytes have vital roles under both physiological and pathological process such as myocardial infarction (MI). The content of EVs can also indicate the status of their parental cells and serve as a biomarker for monitoring the risk of cardiac injury. Examining these vesicles can offer fresh perspectives on the development of MI and assist in creating innovative treatments. Additionally, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) (MSC-EVs) derived EVs have been shown to have significant potential in cardiac regeneration. In this review, we will discuss the current understanding of the role of EVs in cardiac communication, with a focus on the perspectives of EVs from various cardiac cells and MSCs for their potential uses as cardiac therapies after MI.
Cardiac deceleration capacity and acceleration capacity have diagnostic value in patients with vasovagal syncope regardless of age
Authors: Wang Jijing , Xu Jinyi , Qiu Yanyan , Yang Ruike , Wang Wentao , Gao Chuanyu
Published: December 2024

Background

Deceleration capacity (DC) and acceleration capacity (AC) are used to characterize autonomic regulation. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the autonomic nervous function in patients with vasovagal syncope (VVS) and to evaluate the diagnostic value of DC and AC for VVS.

Methods

A total of 94 consecutive patients with VVS [51.0 (38.0–60.0) years; 48 males] and 76 healthy subjects [53.0 (44.3–62.8) years; 46 males] were recruited as controls. The study compared DC, AC, and heart rate variability (HRV) in 24-h ECG, echocardiogram, and biochemical examinations between the two groups.

Results

DC was significantly higher (9.3 ± 2.1 vs. 7.4 ± 1.4 ms, p < .001) and AC was lower (−9.3 ± 2.1 vs. −7.3 ± 1.3 ms, p < .001) in the syncope group compared to the control group. HRV indicators were higher in the syncope group. In multivariable analyses, DC [odds ratio = 1.746 (95% CI, 1.389–2.195); p < .001], AC [odds ratio = 0.553 (95% CI, 0.435–0.702); p < .001] were independently associated with syncope. Mean HR was associated with syncope only in patients <60 years of age. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves showed areas under curve (AUC) of DC/AC for predicting syncope are 0.755/0.765 with sensitivity of 56.4%/60.6% and specificity of 93.4%/88.2%.

Conclusion

Patients with VVS exhibit higher DC and lower AC. Both DC and AC are independently correlated with syncope. A DC value >9.0 ms and an AC value −9.0 ms could potentially be valuable indicators for monitoring cardiac autonomic nervous dysfunction.
Spontaneous imbibition characteristics and influencing factors of shale oil reservoir in Qintong depression
Authors: Li Fengxia , Li Yuanyuan , Zhou Tong , Wang Haibo
Published: December 2024

This study integrates one-dimensional and two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques to conduct spontaneous imbibition experiments on two distinct lithologies (laminated calcareous shale and bulk clay-rich shale) from the Qintong Depression using four different fluid types. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and computed tomography (CT) scanning were employed to observe and track the dynamic changes in shale microstructures at specific intervals allowing for a comprehensive analysis of induced microfractures and their propagation patterns. These methods enabled a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms, enriching the interpretation of the imbibition results. The study reveals that anionic surfactants demonstrate exceptional performance during the imbibition process, and the combination of surfactants further enhanced oil recovery. The imbibition process can be divided into three stages: the imbibition diffusion stage, the transition stage, and the equilibrium stage, with the diffusion stage serving as the primary contributor, driven predominantly by capillary pressure. The calcareous shale cores exhibited the highest imbibition rates in the early stages, approaching equilibrium in the middle stages. Conversely, the clay-rich shale cores maintained relatively high imbibition rates throughout the second stage, indicating different imbibition dynamics based on lithology. NMR, CT scanning, and SEM analysis highlighted significant lithology-dependent differences in the mechanisms driving induced microfracture development during the imbibition and hydration. In laminated calcareous shale, imbibition and hydration primarily proceeded through the dissolution of calcareous minerals, resulting in pore expansion and induced microfractures along pre-existing fractures. In contrast, clay-rich shale exhibited similar mineral dissolution but also experienced clay swelling due to its high clay content, leading to the formation of bedding-parallel fractures with distinct directional patterns along weak mineral-matrix bonds. The experimental results underscored the pivotal role of lithology in determining final imbibition efficiency, with high-clay-content shales demonstrating superior recovery rates under spontaneous imbibition conditions. This study provides critical experimental data and insights into the microscopic mechanisms governing spontaneous imbibition across varied lithologies and fluid types in the Qintong Depression. The results offer foundational knowledge for optimizing oilfield development strategies.
Educator’s resilience in agricultural higher education system during COVID-19 pandemic: empirical evidence from Iran
Authors: Ghiasvand Maryam , Abbasi Enayat , Saadvandi Mahsa , Pariab Jaber
Published: December 2024

Today, educators experience complicated challenges in their job. The stress and burnout of educators has turned into a growing concern. In recent years, the challenges have been increased by the COVID-19 epidemic, and educators have been forced to use virtual methods for education in this situation. Under these conditions, the flexibility and resilience of educators can help people mostly in adaptability, increasing tolerance and optimal use of conditions for better learning. The present study is aimed to analyze the resilience of educators during the COVID-19 pandemic in Iran’s agricultural higher education system. The statistical population of the study were 3,640 educators of agricultural faculties of state universities (N = 3,640). Using the Krejcie and Morgan’s table and stratified random sampling with proportional assignment 347 educators were selected as the sample (n = 347). The data collection instrument was a researcher-made questionnaire whose validity was verified by calculating average variance extracted (AVE) and its reliability was confirmed by calculating Cronbach’s alpha and composite reliability (CR). The collected data were analyzed using structural equation modeling and Smart PLS3.3.9 software. It was found that four investigated factors, motivational-emotional, technical skill, social, and supportive factors had positive and significant relationship with the resilience behavior of educators. Among them, motivational-emotional factors had the highest effect on the educators’ resilient behavior. Based on the findings of the research, practical recommendations have been presented to enhance the educators’ resilient behavior.
Does teachers’ self-reported growth mindset ensure growth mindset-oriented feedback practices in the classroom?
Authors: Zhang Kai , He Wu-jing
Published: December 2024

This study examined the congruence/incongruence between teachers’ self-reported mindset beliefs and their actual teaching practices within the framework of implicit theories of intelligence. A total of 226 middle school teachers (65.90% female, average age = 31.70 years, SD = 5.03; average education year = 16.23, SD = 1.49; average teaching experience = 6.52 years, SD = 4.17) from Shanghai City, mainland China, completed the growth mindset inventory (GMI) for measuring self-reported growth mindset beliefs and underwent classroom observations, which recorded the frequency of their growth mindset-oriented feedback practices while teaching. Subsequently, the 20 teachers with the most extreme GMI scores (i.e., the 10 teachers with the highest scores and the 10 teachers with the lowest scores from this initial pool) were invited to take part in semi-structured interviews to understand the reasons behind the possible congruence/incongruence. Interesting results were found. First, the results of the spearman correlation and multiple regression analyses suggested incongruence between teachers’ self-reported mindset beliefs and their actual feedback practices in real classroom settings for those with growth and neutral mindsets but congruence for those with fixed mindsets. Second, the results of the semi-structured interviews further illustrated that whether teachers demonstrated congruence/incongruence in their growth mindset beliefs and actual growth mindset-oriented feedback practices in the classroom was influenced by contextual factors such as institutional policies, cultural orientations, community expectations, and the general educational competition environment. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the alignment between mindset beliefs and teaching practices, which highlight the need for addressing these discrepancies in teacher development programs.
Burnout of special education teachers in Saudi Arabia’s inclusive education schools
Authors: Alahmed Thamer
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Burnout is a serious phenomenon that negatively affects teachers’ professional performance. The current study aims to determine the level of burnout among special education teachers in inclusive education schools in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Methods

It used a descriptive survey approach by employing an online questionnaire to collect data from 137 special education teachers in inclusive education schools.

Results and discussion

The study found that the level of burnout among special education teachers was average, with an arithmetic mean of 2.907 and a relative weight of 48.40%. Male teachers had higher levels of burnout than female teachers. Moreover, teachers specialising in deafness and hearing loss had higher levels of burnout than teachers in other subspecialties. The other variables, such as educational level and experience, had no significant effect on the dimensions of burnout or overall level of burnout. This study recommends the provision of intervention programmes to help reduce teachers’ burnout levels. In addition, there is a need to reduce the workload and tasks assigned to special education teachers in inclusive education schools.
Supporting all learners through high quality early childhood curricula: STREAMin3 implementation across Virginia
Authors: Clayback Kelsey Ann , Williford Amanda , Vitiello Virginia , Matthew Kate Lynn
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Curricula are an essential component of high-quality early learning experiences. Unfortunately, many early childhood educators face challenges in accessing evidence-based curricula, and implementation fidelity to curriculum is often poor without aligned support, including professional development for educators. This is especially true for educators within family day homes and private programs, who receive the lowest pay, struggle to access meaningful support, and leave the profession at high rates, compared to publicly funded programs.

Methods

In this paper, we describe the STREAMin3 birth-to-five curriculum model. We focus on describing how the curriculum model is intended to be used program-wide in infant, toddler, and preschool classroom, how the curriculum components support social, emotional, and academic skills, and how the aligned and embedded professional development model is designed to build educator capacity. We then present implementation data from the scaling of STREAMin3 during 2022 to 2023 in over 2,000 early childhood education classroom settings in Virginia that received state or federal funding.

Results

We found that educators used and enjoyed the curriculum. Educators at private programs and family day homes reported higher satisfaction, compared to those at public programs and in early childhood special education settings. On average, educators reported implementing curriculum components two to three days a week.

Discussion

We discuss implications, including the need to support educators across settings as curricula and other initiatives are implemented at-scale across states. We discuss the need for future research to explore approaches to increase educator engagement and implementation, with attention to the unique needs of different program types.
Hypoxic conditions affect transcriptome of endometrial stromal cells in endometriosis and promote TGFBI axis
Authors: Sarsenova Meruert , Boggavarapu Nageswara Rao , Kask Keiu , Modhukur Vijayachitra , Samuel Külli , Karro Helle , Gemzell-Danielsson Kristina , Lalitkumar Parameswaran Grace Luther , Salumets Andres , Peters Maire , Lavogina Darja
Published: December 2024

Background

Endometriosis is characterized by the ectopic growth of endometrial-like cells, causing chronic pelvic pain, adhesions and impaired fertility in women of reproductive age. Usually, these lesions grow in the peritoneal cavity in a hypoxic environment. Hypoxia is known to affect gene expression and protein kinase (PK) activity. We aimed to explore the changes in the transcriptome and PK activity characteristic of eutopic and ectopic endometrium in endometriosis under hypoxia.

Methods

Eutopic (EuESCs) and ectopic (EcESCs) endometrial stromal cells were exposed to hypoxia (1% O2) or normoxia (20% O2) for 48 hours. We assessed PK activity and examined transcriptome using mRNA-seq in cells cultured under hypoxic or normoxic conditions. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, quantitative reverse transcription-PCR and immunohistochemistry were performed for the downstream analysis of Transforming Growth Factor Beta Induced (TGFBI) expression.

Results

The kinase assay revealed a minor decrease in cAMP-dependent PK (PKAc) and Akt activity and a trend towards an increase in Rho-dependent PK (ROCK) activity in response to exposure to hypoxic conditions in EcESCs. A wider examination of the hypoxia-mediated changes in transcriptomes of cultured cells revealed that the genes related to aerobic glycolysis and cellular metabolism were upregulated in EuESCs exposed to hypoxia. In contrast, EcESCs had a single differentially expressed gene (TGFBI) upregulated under hypoxic conditions. This gene was also found to be overexpressed in EuESCs exposed to hypoxia vs normoxia, and in EcESCs vs EuESCs in normoxia. The level of secreted TGFBI in the spent culture media was accordingly high in the EcESC cultures and in the EuESC culture exposed to hypoxia. In the eutopic endometrial tissue biopsies, TGFBI mRNA and protein expression depended on the menstrual cycle phase, with higher levels observed in the proliferative phase. TGFBI staining showed the protein localized to the stroma and around the blood vessels. In the secretory phase, TGFBI protein expression was stronger in ectopic endometrium compared to paired eutopic endometrium.

Conclusions

Within this study, we showed hypoxia-mediated transcriptome changes characteristic of EuESCs and EcESCs and identified TGFBI as a potential therapeutic target for endometriosis due to its role in fibrosis and angiogenesis.
Towards a more secure reconstruction-based anomaly detection model for power transformer differential protection
Authors: Jahromi Martiya Zare , Khalaf Mohsen , Kassouf Marthe , Kundur Deepa
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Cyberattacks against Power Transformer Differential Protection (PTDP) have the potential to cause significant disruption and widespread blackouts in power infrastructure. Recent literature has demonstrated how reconstruction-based anomaly detection models can play a critical role in enhancing the security of PTDP against such attacks. However, these models themselves are vulnerable to cyber threats. Adversarial sample generation is an example of a threat against reconstruction-based anomaly detection models.

Methods

To address this threat, we propose an approach for adversarial training of such models appropriate for PTDPs. We then review and compare the effect of adversarial training on the performance of four different model architectures. To demonstrate the efficacy of our proposed approach for improved security and performance in PTDP scenarios, the IEEE PSRC D6 benchmark test system is tested in an OPAL-RT environment.

Results

Simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed method for improved detection of cyberattacks.
A time-variant power distribution network voltage sag identification method based on the concept of inheritance
Authors: Li KeWen , Yu Xiaoyong , Ou Shifeng , Pan Jueming
Published: December 2024

The present paper introduces a novel method for identifying voltage sags in time-variant power distribution networks, effectively addressing the challenges arising from the temporal variability of network topology and data. The proposed method is founded on the concept of inheritance, which is bifurcated into breadth and depth inheritance strategies. The breadth inheritance strategy employs transfer learning to manage topological temporality, utilizing the Euclidean distance between samples to ascertain the sequence of sample migration, and implements multitask learning to share feature representations across different tasks. The depth inheritance strategy, on the other hand, utilizes incremental learning to handle data temporality, building upon the initial model parameters to learn new sample features, which in turn reduces the time required for model updates and enhances the accuracy of target tasks. Case study findings validate the suitability of the proposed methods for reconstructing fault identification models in scenarios characterized by topological temporal variability and for rapidly updating fault identification models in scenarios with data temporal variability. The approach presented herein holds significant implications for the enhancement of power supply reliability and the adaptability of electrical grids.
How does manufacturing agglomeration affect urban ecological resilience? evidence from the Yangtze river delta region of China
Authors: Wang Chen
Published: December 2024

As rapid urbanization challenges urban ecosystem stability, understanding the relationship between manufacturing agglomeration (MA) and urban ecological resilience (UER) has become increasingly critical. This study examines how MA influences UER in China’s Yangtze River Delta region, employing dynamic spatial panel models to analyze prefecture-level panel data from 2003 to 2020. Our findings reveal an inverted U-shaped relationship between MA and UER, with significant spatial spillover effects. Specifically, moderate levels of MA enhance UER through improved resource efficiency and technological innovation, while excessive agglomeration leads to environmental degradation. The study also identifies green technological innovation as a critical mediating mechanism in this relationship. These findings contribute to theoretical understanding and policy formulation for sustainable urban development.
Green development in the Chengdu-Chongqing economic zone: evolution and drivers from a “production-living-ecology” perspective
Authors: Zhu Kangwen , Wang Tianyu , He Jun , Song Dan , Wu Longjiang , Wu Dan , Huang Sheng , Zhou Lilei , Liu Jian
Published: December 2024

Green development is key to promoting regional sustainable development. We construct an evaluation index system for green development levels based on the “sansheng” dimensions—production, living, and ecology. We rely on the “sansheng” (production, living, and ecology) dimensions, combined with the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and the entropy weight method to analyze indicator weights, to construct an evaluation index system for green development levels. This system enables the identification of the evolution patterns of green development and the analysis of driving factors in the Chengdu-Chongqing economic zone from the “sansheng” perspective. The results indicate that: (1) The green development level in the Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Zone has been continuously rising, with the average index increasing from 0.197 to 0.254. Yuzhong District and Chengdu City have shown particularly high green development levels; in 2020, the green development level index for Yuzhong District reached 0.568, while Chengdu City’s index reached 0.522. (2) The spatial clustering of green development levels in the Chengdu-Chongqing economic zone exhibited a trend of first strengthening and then weakening, with the highest clustering degree observed in 2015. (3) National strategies have significantly promoted the improvement of regional green development levels. The average green development index during the pre-establishment, initial development, and rapid development stages of the Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Zone increased from 0.205 to 0.229, and then to 0.254. (4) The Theil index results show an increase in the disparity of green development levels among different regions within the Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Zone.The results of the optimal scaling regression model show that the driving factors with a significant impact on the level of green development include the Number of physicians per million people, Public library book collections Per 100 people, Per capita regional GDP, and Number of secondary schools Per million people, each contributing over 15% to the impact. These findings provide valuable data support for formulating regional economic development strategies and are conducive to advancing sustainable development.
Leaf-level physiological strategies related to productivity and plasticity of Populus in the Southeastern United States
Authors: Renninger Heidi J. , Pitts Justin J. , Wang Jiaxin
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Populus and its hybrids are attractive bioenergy crops and the southeastern United States has broad ability to supply bioenergy markets with woody biomass. Breeding and hybridization have led to superior eastern cottonwood (Populus deltoides W. Bartram ex Marshall) and hybrid poplars adapted to a wide variety of site types not suited for agricultural production. In order to maximize productivity and minimize inputs, genotypes need to efficiently use available site resources and tolerate environmental stresses. In addition, we need to determine plasticity of traits and their coordination across sites to select traits that will broadly characterize genotypes. Therefore, our study objectives were to determine (1) which leaf traits were correlated with growth, (2) if traits and genotypes exhibited significant plasticity across sites, and (3) how traits were coordinated within and across sites and Populus taxa.

Methods

We measured trees at two sites in northeastern Mississippi, United States: one upland and one alluvial terrace site. Genotypes included eastern cottonwoods as well as F1 crosses of eastern cottonwood and P. maximowiczii (Henry), P. nigra (L.) and P. trichocarpa (Torr. & Gray).

Results

We found that sites differed in which leaf traits were correlated with productivity; with water use efficiency specifically being positively correlated with growth at an alluvial terrace site, but negatively correlated with growth at an upland site. Tree height growth, leaf isotope composition (δ13C and δ15N), as well as leaf mass per area (LMA) exhibited the least plasticity across sites, while physiological gas exchange parameters and leaf nitrogen concentration exhibited the highest plasticity. Broadly across taxa, leaf carbon isotope ratios were correlated with intrinsic water use efficiency, and stomatal conductance was positively correlated with photosynthetic nitrogen use efficiency across sites, while leaf nitrogen isotope ratios exhibited contrasting relationships with leaf nitrogen concentration.

Discussion

Overall, these results allow us to refine selections of productive genotypes based on site conditions and site-specific relationships with physiological parameters to better match Populus taxa with sites and landowner objectives.
Transgenic poplar for resistance against pest and pathogen attack in forests: an overview
Authors: Sharan Swati , Chakraborty Amrita , Roy Amit , Singh Indrakant K. , Singh Archana
Published: December 2024

Forests are potential habitats for immense terrestrial ecosystems and aquatic biodiversity, performing an essential role in ecological preservation and regulation of climate. The anthropogenic pressures on the forests lead to forest loss, fragmentation and degradation. Requirements for sustainable methodologies for forest protection are of utmost priority under the climate change regime. Among forest trees, poplar trees (Populus L.) have attracted attention in global forestry as a promising material for improving the quality and quantity of urban landscapes. These plants provide wood, which can be utilized as raw resources for the paper industry and as a potential source of biofuel. However, several biotic stresses, such as attacks by pests and pathogens, severely affect poplar production and productivity. The improvement of Populus trees through conventional tree breeding methods is restricted due to their long-life cycles and the lack of suitable donors with resistance genes. Populus has been utilized as a model plant for studying gene functions due to its highly efficient genetic transformation capabilities. The present review will provide a comprehensive overview of pest and pathogen attacks on poplar, focusing on their infection mechanisms, transmission routes, and control strategies. Additionally, it will examine the most widely used genetic transformation methods (gene gun-mediated, Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated, protoplast transformation, micro-RNA mediated and micro-RNA clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-associated (CRISPR-Cas) systems methods and RNA interference) for improving tolerance in poplar trees against pest and pathogens attack. Furthermore, it will delve into prospects, challenges, and recent advances in molecular biology tools and their safe application for genetic transformation to improve insect and pest resistance in poplar trees. Finally, the regeneration of transgenic poplar trees with enhanced resistance, developed through various genetic engineering techniques, is discussed.