bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Support of Educational Associates and Self-Efficacy for Teacher Cooperation
Authors: Marković Vanja , Radetić-Paić Mirjana
Published: August 2024

The aim of this research is to determine the differences in the individual components of self-assessed self-efficacy for teachers' cooperation, taking into consideration whether educational associates provide them with adequate support in working with students with disabilities or not. In addition to the calculation of basic statistical parameters, in data processing, multivariate analysis of variance, t-test and discrimination analysis were used to calculate the differences between the observed groups. The obtained results show the presence of statistically significant differences in separate components of self-assessed self-efficacy for cooperation between teachers, taking into consideration whether educational associates provide them with adequate support in working with students with disabilities or not. The differences are evident both on the manifest and latent levels. However, the variables in which teachers who receive support from educational associates show a higher level of self-efficacy for cooperation mostly relate to administrative-organizational support and freedom of expression of opinion, so it is necessary to better conceptualize this cooperation and its components, as well as the factors affecting it. The contribution of this research is twofold. It consists in acquiring results that allow insight into the structure of self-assessed self-efficacy of teachers working in inclusive conditions in the area of one region in Croatia. On the other side, this work contributes to the interpretation of the possible connection between specific components of teacher self-efficacy for cooperation in inclusive conditions with factors that could influence it when it comes to the support of educational associates.
Enhancing Academic Competence in Future Dentists: Leveraging English for Specific Purposes in Dental Education
Authors: Dudina Oksana
Published: August 2024

The purpose of the article is to evaluate the impact of a specialized English for Specific Purposes (ESP) curriculum on the academic and linguistic development of second-year dental students. The article examines the effectiveness of an ESP curriculum tailored for second-year dental students at Donetsk National Medical University. Aimed at addressing the linguistic and professional needs unique to the dental field, the study juxtaposes the academic progression of students engaged in a specialized ESP curriculum against those following a standard English course. The research incorporates a controlled design with 26 participants, divided into an experimental group receiving the ESP curriculum and a control group continuing with conventional English education. The intervention spanned one academic semester, focusing on enhancing English language proficiency, dental vocabulary, and academic skills pertinent to dental studies. Pre- and post-assessment tools were employed to measure improvements in general English proficiency, dental-specific terminology knowledge, and core academic competencies such as reading and comprehending scientific literature, academic writing, and oral presentation skills. The results demonstrated significant advancements in the experimental group, notably in language proficiency and specialized vocabulary, compared to the control group. Qualitative feedback further highlighted increased confidence and engagement among ESP participants, underscoring the curriculum's relevance and applicability to their future professional endeavors.
Developing Psychomotor Skills and Social Attributes Through Integrated Psychomotor and Unified Football Training: A Special Olympics Intervention Study
Authors: Stefanica Valentina , Mercea Ionut-Traian , Ursu Vasile Emil , Gorban Corneliu Florin , Dragos Cristian , Mihaiu Costinel , Gogean Groza Gina
Published: August 2024

This research investigates the combined effects of a tailored psychomotor development training and  Unified Sports football program on psychomotor abilities and social attributes among Special Olympics  athletes with intellectual disabilities aged 16-18 in Romania. The study aims to assess the impact of the integrated psychomotor and Unified Football training program on the psychomotor abilities of youth Special Olympics athletes with intellectual disabilities, evaluate the influence of the intervention on their social attributes, and examine the relationship between psychomotor abilities and social attributes among participants. The findings indicate significant improvements in psychomotor skills, including Static Balance (t = -8.042, p < 0.001), Identified Stimuli (t = -7.000, p < 0.001), and Friendship Activity Scale  scores (t = -8.990, p < 0.001), reflecting substantial enhancements from initial to final testing. Moreover, Pulse Processing Speed showed a significant improvement (t = -2.299, p = 0.042). However, while Dynamic Balance exhibited a negative t-value (t = -2.021), the p-value of 0.068 indicates a marginally significant improvement. These results suggest notable advancements in psychomotor skills and social interaction among Special Olympics athletes, underscoring the effectiveness of the integrated training program. The implications of these findings extend to coaches and practitioners involved in designing tailored training programs aimed at enhancing psychomotor and social skills among athletes with intellectual disabilities.
The Level of Equity and Justification of the Sanctions Distributed within the Family and Professional Fields
Authors: Mazilescu Crisanta-Alina , Gangloff Bernard
Published: August 2024

This study explores the manner in which individuals explain their decisions when assigning sanctions (positive or negative consequences) during social interactions. Traditionally, individuals are thought to take responsibility for their actions (internal attribution). However, a certain number of results obtained in the field of education or in the work environment highlight the fact that in the case of sanction distributing behaviours, that is to say if we question the distributor (and no longer the receiver) of a sanction, attributions are more external than self-attributing. This research aims primarily to verify that such results can also be obtained in order to explain the sanctions distributed by a parent to their children or by a spouse to their wife. Moreover, considering that certain sanctions may not correspond to just compensation for the conduct of the individual being sanctioned, we also wanted, on an exploratory basis, to examine the attributions carried out by the distributors of unjust sanctions, again within the familial environment as well as in the professional field. A questionnaire was administered to 64 employees (with an equal distribution of men and women) who were also parents of young children. The questionnaire presented scenarios where individuals in power positions (a father to a child, a husband to a wife and a manager to a subordinate) distributed sanctions (fair or unfair) and the participants were asked to explain the cause using internal or external attributions. The results show that, for just sanctions, the attributions are preferentially external, while for unjust sanctions, differences are observed according to the gender of the participant. From an educational perspective, this research sheds light on the manner in which power dynamics in classrooms can influence how educators assign responsibility for learning. By recognizing the tendency to place blame externally when providing feedback or consequences, educators can create a learning environment that emphasizes internal responsibility and shared ownership of academic achievement. This shift in behaviour empowers students and fosters a stronger sense of agency in their own learning journey.
Neuropedagogy as an Aspect of Developing Spiritual Culture in the Context of Vocal Musiс
Authors: Gorozhankina Oksana , Nesprava Mykola , Lutsenko Viktor , Zheqing Wang , Mykhailets Viktoriia , Shpak Halyna
Published: August 2024

Music education significantly influences personality development and considers self-expression, self-realization and self-actualization as critical sociocultural and pedagogical tasks. This article aims to explore theoretical and practical aspects of vocal art’s influence on nurturing one’s spiritual culture within educational activities, viewed through the prism of neuropedagogy. It addresses challenges in applying psycho-pedagogical techniques of neuropedagogy in vocal education for competency development. The main focus of the study lies in the methodological underpinnings of neuropedagogy and its impact on overall personal development. Various methods, including explanatory and descriptive ones, analysis and deduction, were used to determine the purpose of the article. The findings are not comprehensive. However, they provide a foundation for asserting that the need for social grouping leads to tensions where the pursuit of the common good for a specific social group may conflict with the concept of individual well-being. This dynamic is particularly relevant in the context of neuropedagogy. The article concludes that understanding the role of vocal music education is crucial for personality development as it is related to neuropedagogy.
Challenges Encountered by Latinx Bilingual Service Providers Working With Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Terrazas-Carrillo Elizabeth , Garcia Ediza , Alonzo Dulce , Escamilla Liabette
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this study was to identify the challenges encountered by bilingual service providers working with survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV). Latinx experience IPV at a high rate, and their ability to seek services is affected by multiple factors, including their immigration status, English language proficiency, and lack of familiarity with the U.S. healthcare system. Bilingual service providers working in shelters often treat Latinx in Spanish. While some research exists on the stressors associated with providing IPV services in shelters, nothing is known about how being bilingual affects service providers. This qualitative study was designed to fill this gap. The findings yielded two themes: difficult workload and service provider exhaustion. The disproportionate rate of IPV services requiring services in Spanish and the available staff equipped to serve them often results in high caseloads and additional responsibilities for bilingual service providers. The lack of training in both service provision in Spanish and serving monolingual Spanish-speaking IPV survivors increases the strain of providing quality client care. Emotional and mental exhaustion is a common experience when serving trauma clients; however, it can be compounded for bilingual service providers, who must also use a second language. Agencies must consider the work demands of bilingual service providers to ensure that the expectations are balanced and reasonable. More Spanish-speaking providers are needed to meet the need, and evidence-based training must be developed and widely disseminated.
Working With Youth Who Have Experienced Commercial Sexual Exploitation: Voices From the Field
Authors: Helpingstine Claire , Kenny Maureen C.
Published: August 2024

Little is known about the experiences of service providers working with youth who have experienced commercial sexual exploitation (CSE). In this qualitative study, 12 service providers shared their experiences working with youth who have experienced CSE. Thematic analysis was used to develop key themes that included the challenges posed by working with this population, including the breadth of necessary services and the type of support that is needed for this work. Participants shared the importance of being prepared to work with this population and learn from those with lived experience. The complexity of cases and the difficulty engaging youth who had experienced CSE were also themes. These results can inform service providers who work with youth about the common challenges in working with this population and prepare the next generation of service providers for this difficult work. Training service providers, managing their expectations, and getting them ready for their role will be critical for successful intervention with youth who have experienced CSE.
Determination of Sustainable Factory Locations for the Lemon Agroindustry using AHP, Mapping and Water Management
Authors: Prawiranegara Boy Macklin Pareira , Asdak Chay , Octoyne Aisyah , Kendarto Dwi Rustan
Published: August 2024

This research was conducted in Suntenjaya Village, Lembang, and West Bandung Regency, focusing on lemon agro-industrial development. Research was conducted using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) approach, area mapping, and water management to determine a sustainable factory location. The main objective is the selection of factory sites by integrating lemon production, considering sustainable agriculture aspects, product aspects, and water conservation programs. The results of this study provide a strong foundation for sustainable agro-industrial development that will support sustainable agriculture, local economy, and environmental protection. The research also combined qualitative and quantitative elements with a mixed approach that included Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and AHP, and the results showed that integrated drainage management was the top priority, followed by sanitation, clean water, reforestation, and sustainable agriculture. Mapping of areas based on geographical characteristics, such as rainfall, slope, and soil type, provided a map of water infiltration rates, which became a key guide in planning water conservation programs. The ultimate location for the lemon agroindustry is half of Desa Suntenjaya, mostly from the center to the northern area, which needs to consider proximity to markets in Bandung Regency and City, easy access to sources of raw materials for lemons, water availability, adequate transportation infrastructure, access to energy sources, suitable climate for lemon growth, and the availability of adequate labor in the region.
Cretaceous-palaeogene fossil resins of the arctic part of Denmark (Greenland Island)
Authors: Martirosyan O.
Published: August 2024

The article presents modern outlook on overview of the current knowledge about the first findings of fossil resins in the Arctic territory of Denmark (Greenland). On the basis of obscure and fragmentary documents, the history of their study is briefly given, the primacy of researchers who mentioned fossil resins is noted, locations of fossil resins are given, and the level of their study is assessed. A comparative description of IR-spectra of cedarite (chemawinite), shrauphite, valhovite and resin from Hare Island is given. The similarity of the latter with cedarite is shown.
Digital Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia in Cancer Survivors: Protocol for a Pragmatic Clinical Trial
Authors: Clara Maria Inês , Van Straten Annemieke , Canavarro Maria Cristina , Allen Gomes Ana
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Insomnia is one of the most prevalent, persistent, and distressing conditions associated with cancer, affecting almost half of all cancer survivors. Although cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia is well established as the gold-standard treatment for insomnia, its accessibility is very limited in routine care. We aim to examine the real-world effectiveness and acceptability of a digital cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia for cancer survivors with insomnia symptoms through a randomized controlled trial in Portugal.Methods and Analysis: Our cancer trial will test the effects and acceptability of an accessible internet-delivered self-administered cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia digital intervention with clinician support, OncoSleep. This online program includes six interactive, personalized weekly sessions featuring evidence-based techniques targeting psychophysiological hyperarousal and maladaptive conditioning, tailored for cancer survivors. Research study procedures include screening for eligibility in the general population and randomization into one of two arms: the digital CBT-I program or a waitlist control group. Insomnia severity (primary outcome), fatigue, sleep diary outcomes, psychological distress, and quality of life (secondary outcomes) will be assessed at baseline and post-intervention.
Investigation of Vaspin and Visfatin -4689G/T Gene Polymorphisms in Alopecia Areata Patients
Authors: Yukcu Fulya , Akcılar Raziye , Dizen Namdar Nazli , Kocyigit Sevinc Sevgi
Published: August 2024

Alopecia Areata (AA) is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes recurrent hair bereavement. Genetic and immunological factors act a part in the pathogenesis of AA. The aim of this study was to look into relationship between the vaspin and visfatin -4689G/T gene polymorphisms and AA sensibility in the Turkish population. This study included 80 AA patients and 80 healthy controls. Genomic DNA was extracted of blood samples Vaspin and visfatin -4689G/T gene polymorphisms were determined using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) methods. The observed disparity in vaspin genotypes and allele distribution amid AA patients and healthy controls did not reach statistical significance (χ2 = 2.51, df = 1, p = 0.11 and χ2 = 1.75, df = 1, p = 0.18, respectively). Although visfatin GT genotype was higher in AA patients compared to control, it was not statistically significant. People with the visfatin GT genotype were more likely to be AA than people with the GG genotype [OR (95% CI) = 2.11 (1.04-4.27), p = 0.03]. This study shows that there is no affair amid vaspin and visfatin -4689G/T polymorphism and AA in the Turkish population. However, the TT genotype for the vaspin gene and the GT genotype for the visfatin -4689G/T gene are risk factors for people with AA disease.
An improved approach to organising mobile edge computing in a 5G network
Authors: Astrakhantsev Andrii , Globa Larysa , Fedorov Oleksandr , Degtiarov Dmytro , Romanko Yevgen , Romanii Kyrylo
Published: August 2024

Mobile edge computing is an important element in ensuring the efficiency of the 5G network as a whole, as it enables data storage and computing at the network edge. Existing solutions do not fully address the issues of load distribution between computing nodes, and most solutions do not offer methods for verifying computations and controlling errors. Accordingly, this paper aims to develop an approach to the organization of mobile edge computing in a 5G mobile network that would authenticate distribution servers and computing nodes, manage the process of distributing computing nodes, have a procedure for verifying the correctness of calculations, and take into account the parameters of computing nodes during distribution. To achieve this goal, we propose to use the developed method. The method of load balancing and selection of computing nodes for edge computing via 5G allows for identifying available nodes and distributing computing blocks among them. It also provides mutual authentication of elements and includes a method of data verification and error detection for the MEC system. The provided solution allows for controlling errors during calculations and protecting the server from incorrect data. These methods are optimized according to minimum network resources and computing time criteria. These improvements increase the efficiency of mobile edge computing in a 5G network.
Optimization of Hand Sanitizer Formulation with the Addition of Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf) Essential Oil and a Combination of Essential Oils of Local Indonesian Empon-empon
Authors: Ariani Sri Retno Dwi , Van Hayus Elfi Susanti , Mulyani Sri , Utomo Suryadi Budi , Wathon Muhammad Hizbul , Bilhaq Natiq , Pramesti Anastasia Diaz
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT: This research aimed to optimize the formulation of hand sanitizer by incorporating lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf) essential oil in combination with essential oils of local Indonesian empon-empon: temu giring (Curcuma heyneana Val. & van Zipj.), temu kunci (Kaempferia pandurata Roxb.), and temu mangga (Curcuma amada Roxb.). The optimization of hand sanitizer formulation was done based on several tests. The first was organoleptic test by observing the aroma, color, and form; the second was pH, homogeneity, and spreadability testing, and; the third was testing the antibacterial activities of each hand sanitizer formula against Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25922. The research stages encompassed isolation of essential oils, formulation and evaluation of hand sanitizers, antibacterial activities test, optimization of hand sanitizer formulation, and identification of the chemical compounds in the hand sanitizer with the optimum formulation using the GC-MS method. The study resulted in the hand sanitizer with the optimum formulation containing the essential oils of lemongrass (3%) and temu giring (3%), demonstrating very strong antibacterial bioactivities against both E. coli ATCC 25922 and S. aureus ATCC 25923, with inhibition zones measuring 29.70 mm and 60.08 mm, respectively. This hand sanitizer had a distinctive aroma, combining the scents of lemongrass and temu giring. It was in liquid form, clear, and homogeneous, with pH and spreadibility values of 5.4 and 6.4 cm, respectively. The quality complied with SNI quality standards No. 06-2588. The primary active ingredients were E-citral (22.10%), Z-citral (17.88%), and 1,8-cineol (17.63%).
 
Keywords: Essential oil, hand sanitizer, lemongrass, temu giring, temu kunci, temu mangga.
The Potential of Paku Gajah (Angiopteris evecta) as Antitumor Through In Vitro and In Silico Studies
Authors: Rasyid Herlina , Asmirah Asmirah , Firdausiah Syadza , Arief Ihsanul , Soekamto Nunuk Hariani
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT. Paku gajah (Angiopteris evecta) is one of the largest ferns which has been used empirically by the Dayak tribe of Kalimantan, Indonesia as a traditional medicine to treat various diseases, one of which is tumors. This research aims to determine the potential utilization of A. evecta stem extract as an antitumor by secondary metabolites analysis, toxicity and antitumor assay. The methods used in this study were gradual maceration using three solvents (n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol), phytochemical screening, toxicity test, antitumor activity assay with the Alamarblue method, Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis, and molecular docking analysis. This study indicated that A. evecta stem extract contained secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, saponins, tannins, and steroids. The ethyl acetate and methanol were found as toxic extracts with LC50 130.67 and 314.31 µg/mL, respectively. In line with the toxicity, the antitumor activity of the ethyl acetate extract was the highest with an IC50 of 240.94 µg/mL and phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of violanthin and angiopteroside in the extract. Molecular docking showed that the binding energy and inhibition constants of violanthin and angiopteroside against receptors were higher than standard ligand F82. The interaction between violanthin and the receptor results five hydrogen-bond (H-bond) with Lys920, Cys919, Asp1046, and Leu840, while the angiopteroside produces four H-bonds with Leu836, Leu834, and Arg831.
 
Keywords: Antitumor, molecular docking, paku gajah (Angiopteris evecta).
Application of FTIR Spectroscopy and Chemometric to Differentiate Azadirachta excelsa (Jack.) Jacobs Leaves Extracts Based on Solvent Polarity and Assessment of Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Adfa Morina , Erliana Dina , Wiradimafan Khafit , Triawan Deni Agus , Yudha S. Salprima , Avidlyandi Avidlyandi , Rafi Mohamad
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT. Azadirachta excelsa is a plant belonging to the same genus as the Indian neem (Azadirachta indica) which is expected to have similar biological activities. However, its active components and pharmacological effects are limited. The composition and quantity of these metabolites in A. excelsa may differ due to different polarities of extracting solvents, so selecting an effective extractive solvent with a high level of biological activity is important. Therefore, in this study, we examined differences in the metabolite finger printing using FTIR-based metabolomics, as well as evaluated their antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538) and Escherichia coli (ATCC 8739). A. excelsa was extracted using chloroform, ethyl acetate, ethanol p.a., 70% and 50% ethanol. Extracts obtained were analyzed using FTIR and the inhibition zones were then determined. The results showed that principal component analysis (PCA) could distinguish each sample based on the extraction solvent. In this study, we found 50% and 70% ethanol extracts had similar metabolite compositions and concentrations based on their respective FTIR spectrum. The inhibition zone of A. excelsa extracts ranged from 12.37-17.20 mm and 13.88-15.89 mm against S. aureus and E.coli, respectively. The chloroform extract was more effective against both bacteria. Duncan's further test showed that chloroform extract reduced E. coli similarly to ethyl acetate but not S. aureus.  While 50%, 70%, and ethanol p.a. extracts inhibited S. aureus and E. coli equally. Based on these results, the polarity of the extracting solvent had an important influence on the metabolite profile and antibacterial activity of A. excelsa.
 
Keywords: Azadirachta excelsa, antibacterial activity, metabolite fingerprinting, FTIR.
Molecular Docking of Nigella Sativa L. with PXR Receptors and the Effect of Thymoquinone on PXR Expression in HepG2 Cells
Authors: Megawati Annik , Nurrochmad Arief , Nugroho Agung Endro Endro , Lukitaningsih Endang
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT. The interaction between herbal remedies and drugs is a fascinating phenomenon that might cause therapeutic complications in patients. Warfarin is an anticoagulant drug that provides anti-blood-clotting effects by inhibiting the formation of vitamin K-dependent coagulation factors, and warfarin interacts with the nuclear receptor PXR, subsequently modulating cytochrome P450 during the metabolism process. St. John's wort, an herbal medicine with antidepressant effects, can alter the pharmacokinetics of warfarin. Thymoquinone is one of the active compounds in N. sativa and has pharmacological activities such as anticoagulant, antidiabetic, diuretic, antidepressant, and anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, we investigated the compounds in Nigella sativa (N. sativa) against pregnane X receptor (PXR) and evaluated the impact of thymoquinone (TQ) administration on PXR expression in HepG2 cells. The molecular docking analysis was conducted utilizing the Molecular Operating Environment (MOE) with the PXR (PDB ID: 7AXJ). At the same time, the PXR gene expression was measured using RT-PCR instruments. The RMSD value in docking represents the deviation criteria between the native ligand position and the redocking position result, indicating the capability of MOE and PDB qualification for performing molecular docking. The docking analysis showed that warfarin had the strongest binding energy (7AXJ -6.0507) by forming hydrogen binding type on Arg410. Despite TQ being the major component, it also displayed a high affinity for the two PDB IDs (7AXJ -4.5962). Furthermore, the concurrent administration of warfarin and TQ (19.27 μM) in HepG2 cells showed a significant reduction in the relative mRNA expression of the PXR gene. Given the above-mentioned findings, our study adequately enables us to predict the mechanism behind herb-drug interactions (HDIs) implicating N. sativa, specifically the TQ compound to warfarin metabolism via the activation of the PXR receptor.
 
Keywords: Thymoquinone, expression mRNA, PXR, molecular docking, HepG2 cells.
Evaluation on the Application of Pseudommonas fluorescens and Chitosan Against Soybean Mosaic Virus
Authors: Andayanie Wuye Ria , Dinurani Praptiningsih Gamawati , Lukito Martin
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT. Soybean mosaic virus (SMV) causes a decrease in soybean [Glycine max (Leguminosae) Merril] production. Activity of the Pseudomonas fluorescens (Pseudomonadaceae ) and chitosan can increase soybean plant resistance to SMV and stimulate plant growth. Therefore, The study aimed to evaluate the effect of increasing salicylic acid and total phenol contents on the biological control activity of P. fluorescens and chitosan against SMV. This study used two soybean varieties (Wilis and Anjasmoro) and three lines (GK/Mlg 3288-7-11, W/PI 200.485-7-14, and GK/PI200.485-7-2). Treatment using seed encapsulation with P. fluorescens combined with chitosan on the Wilis variety was the highest percentage of the total phenolic and salicylic acid content. In addition, Applying P. fluorescens with chitosan suppresses disease incidence on the Wilis variety and GK/Mlg 3288-7-11 line. Moreover, the ELISA absorbance value was low (0.182−0.224) and reacted negatively with no symptoms. Therefore, applying P. fluorescens combined with chitosan on the GK/Mlg 3288-7-11 line could be developed as the candidate variety for SMV control in the endemic soybean plant area.
 
Keywords: Disease incidence, ELISA, induce systemic resistance, secondary metabolites, soybean.
Mutual fund investment performance: Indonesia Sharia stock index as characteristics moderating model
Authors: Azis Musdalifah , Darmalaksana Dedy , Suryaningsi Suryaningsi , Jaafar Muhammad Sukar
Published: August 2024

Purpose – This study investigates how the Sharia stock price index influences the relationship between various factors, such as the expense ratio, portfolio turnover ratio, cash ratio, age, size, and characteristics of Sharia mutual funds, and their overall performance. Methodology – This study employed a quantitative descriptive research method to analyze 316 populations. Purposive sampling was used to obtain a total of 51 samples. We used research tools for data collection and SMART PLS 4 statistical software to analyze the collected data. Findings – The characteristics of ISSI-moderated mutual funds have a significant positive effect on the performance of Sharia mutual funds. To achieve better performance, investment managers must incur high costs in implementing active strategies. The more active the investment manager is in trading by looking at existing opportunities, the better the performance of the Sharia Mutual Funds. Implications – The implications of this research indicate that the movement of the Sharia stock price index can strengthen the positive causal relationship between several characteristics of Sharia mutual funds. The effects of Sharia mutual fund portfolio instruments, including shares, bonds, and deposits from the Sharia banking industry, also contribute to improving the performance of Sharia mutual funds in Indonesia.Originality – This study investigates the moderating role of the Sharia stock price index on several characteristics of Sharia mutual funds, including the expense ratio, portfolio turnover ratio, cash ratio, age of the mutual funds, and size of the mutual funds, in relation to their performance.
Coverage hetnet based picocell and femtocell for uplink condition around building environment with single knife edge method
Authors: Eska Andrita Ceriana
Published: August 2024

The development of HetNet (Heterogeneous Network) radio base stations has experienced many developments. This is indicated by the existence of microcells, macrocells, picocells, femtocells, and so on. In this research, the research is aimed at the propagation of user equipment communication systems in uplink conditions with HetNet picocells and femtocells. UE propagation is on a straight path between the building environment. The communication frequency used is 10 GHz. The communication between Tx and Rx is modeled as a diffraction mechanism, AWGN channel, and atmospheric attenuation. The Single Knife Edge (SKE) method is used to model the mechanism. The propagation channel is faced with AWGN (Additive White Gaussian Noise). The analysis of this research includes the SNR value, Adaptive Modulation and Coding (AMC) level, and percentage of communication coverage area. The AMC is based on the use of MCS (Modulation and Code Scheme). Some of the MCS modulations used QPSK, 16 QAM, and 64 QAM. As research results show that the percentage of communication coverage area obtained was gNB1 80.59 percent, gNB2 65.67%, and selection combining HetNet 95.52%.
Thickness Measurement and Sensitivity of Copper/Nickel Electroplating Results of Electrolyte Solution Temperature Variation
Authors: Islamiyati R.N. , Toifur M. , Okimustava
Published: August 2024

Currently, cryogenic thermometers are needed and one of the uses of cryogenic thermometers is to measure the temperature of food preservation flasks. Research has been conducted on the manufacture of cryogenic thermometers derived from Cu/Ni coils by electroplating process with temperature variation treatment of electrolyte solution. The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of electrolyte solution temperature variation treatment on Ni thickness and Cu/Ni sensitivity as a low-temperature sensor. Electroplating was carried out with electrolyte temperature parameters of 30˚C-70˚C, electrode distance of 4 cm, voltage of 4.5 volts, and coating time of 4 minutes. The electrolyte solution was a mixture of NiSO4 260 g, NiCl2 60 g, H3BO3 40 g, and Aquades 1000 mL. Based on the results of the study, a remarkable condition was obtained on the thickness of Ni; namely, at 40 ˚C, the thickness increased to 1.08 mm. In addition, the best temperature can produce the greatest sensitivity value in Cu/Ni coil electroplating, namely at 50 ˚C.
Unveiling the inverted N-shaped environmental Kuznets curve in OECD nations: an empirical analysis
Authors: BULUT ABDULKADİR , TEKDEMIR Nazmiye
Published: August 2024

In the contemporary global context, economic growth has engendered various factors such as increased trade, industrialization and technological advancements, giving rise to negative externalities on a worldwide scale. Among these, environmental destruction stands as a significant global public bad resulting from these adverse effects. Balancing economic growth objectives while addressing environmental challenges has become a paramount issue for modern society. This study investigates the correlation between economic growth and environmental degradation across 33 OECD countries during the period 1995–2015, employing fixed effect with Driscoll-Kraay standard error estimation approach. The findings surprisingly revealed an inverted N-shaped relationship between economic growth and air pollution levels, contradicting the conventional Environmental Kuznets Curve theory. Our analysis also shows that rising renewable energy consumption helps reduce CO2 emissions, while non-renewable energy consumption has the opposite effect.
Hunting activity modulates wolves’ activity patterns during pup caring
Authors: López Ilad Gabriel Vivas , Zafra Alicia , Barja Isabel
Published: August 2024

Hunting any wildlife species is an anthropogenic pressure that modulates target species populations, affecting phenotype expressions like behavior. Such behavioral adaptations occur in the Iberian wolf (Canis lupus signatus), by adjusting its activity pattern and activity level to satisfy living needs. This response is mediated by temporal avoidance mechanisms that can induce physiological alterations in individuals. We have estimated activity levels and activity patterns from 640 camera trapping records of Iberian wolf and 829 of hunting disturbance, for 3 hunting allowed areas and 1 hunting banned area in the Macizo Central Ourensano, along the pup raring season. Wolves were active 10.83 h/day in hunting banned areas, and between 12 and 17.9 h/day in hunting permitted areas. The activity pattern of wolves was cathemeral in all the sampled areas, except for Baldriz, which is a hunting permitted area, where it was mostly nocturnal. Wolves were active up to 7 hours longer in hunting permitted areas than hunting banned areas. Wolf reproductive groups differed in their daily activity pattern due to differential hunting intensity, having activity peaks before noon in protected areas, and at twilight in non-protected areas. There was no change in wolf activity observed in the presence of off-road trucks, compared to the presence of hunting dogs and hunters, which are directly linked to hunting. This revealed that wolves adjust their activity pattern depending on conditions of the habitat such as presence of anthropic disturbances, like hunting, even when the wolf is not a target species.
Explainable AI for the Classification of Brain MRIs
Authors: Blake Nathan , Kelly David , Peña Santiago , Chanchal Akchunya , Chockler Hana
Published: August 2024

Background: Machine learning applied to medical imaging labor under a lack of trust due to the inscrutability of AI models and the lack of explanations for their outcomes. Explainable AI has therefore become an essential research topic. Unfortunately, many AI models, both research and commercial, are unavailable for white-box examination, in which access to a model’s internals is required. There is therefore a need for black-box explainability tools in the medical domain. Several such tools for general images exist, but their relative strengths and weak- nesses when applied to medical images have not been explored.
Methods: We use a publicly available dataset of brain MRI images and a model trained to classify cancerous and non-cancerous slices to assess a number of black-box explainability tools (LIME, RISE, IG, SHAP and ReX) and one white-box tool (Grad-CAM) as a baseline comparator. We use several common measures to assess the con- condance of the explanations with clinician provided annotations, including the Dice Coefficient, Hausdorff Distance, Jaccard Index and propose a Penalised Dice Coefficient which combines the strengths of these measures.
Results: ReX (Dice Coefficient = 0.42±0.20) consistently performs relatively well across all measures with comparable performance to Grad-CAM (Dice Coef- ficient = 0.33±0.22). A panel of images is presented for qualitative inspection, showing a number of failure modes.
Conclusion: In contrast to general images, we find evidence that most black-box explainability tools do not perform well for medical image classifications when used with default settings.
Development of the Crisis and Emergency Intervention Skills Scale (CEISS) and an analysis of its psychometric properties
Authors: Muñoz Fernando , Alarcón Rafael , Trillo Javier , Miranda Jesús , Polo Cristina
Published: August 2024

Emergency psychology is a branch of psychology that, although it began several years ago due to dramatic events around the world, is increasingly being established in the day-to-day work of the emergency department. Due to the very specific nature of this type of intervention, it is essential that, in addition to proper training and experience, emergency psychologists have a series of competencies. In this study, we developed a questionnaire, the Crisis and Emergency Intervention Skills Scale (CEISS), ad hoc for this research, and we determined the relationship of the CEISS score with the most relevant competencies. These capacities to intervene and provide assistance in crisis situations were found to be the sum of several skills. Positive correlations of CEISS scores with resilience, attention, clarity and regulation, which are related to emotional intelligence, were found. Knowing what psychological competencies are necessary for the correct performance of this type of task, as well as for professionals to have good psychological self-protection, is of great help when managing situations that require this type of intervention.
Analysis of Corn Leaf Area Index and Dry Matter Simulation Under Different Fertilization Treatments Based on APSIM Model
Authors: Aierken Gulaimubaier , Wei Renjuan , Liang Yi , Zhao Xin
Published: August 2024

The study simulated the effects of three fertilization schemes on maize leaf area index and dry matter accumulation using the APSIM model, and also investigated the adaptability of the APSIM model in simulating leaf area index and dry matter accumulation of summer maize in the region. Results indicated that the maize leaf area index was highest during the silking stage and lowest at the 9-leaf stage throughout the growth period. The maize leaf area index of the fertilization treatments was significantly higher than that of the non-fertilization treatment. As fertilization rates increased, the maize leaf area index gradually increased. Maize dry matter accumulation also increased with higher fertilization rates, with the fertilization treatments showing significantly higher accumulation compared to the control (CK). The APSIM model demonstrated high precision in simulating maize leaf area index and dry matter accumulation under different fertilization schemes, with root mean square error (RMSE) for leaf area index ranging from 0.093 to 0.250, coefficient of determination (R2) ranging from 0.956 to 0.992, and efficiency index (Me) ranging from 0.936 to 0.990. The RMSE for maize dry matter accumulation ranged from 0.03 to 0.332, R2 ranged from 0.961 to 0.998, and Me ranged from 0.880 to 0.980. Among the fertilization schemes, N3 exhibited the highest RMSE, R2, and Me values for both maize leaf area index and dry matter accumulation.
A process evaluation of the Walking In ScHools (WISH) Study using the RE-AIM framework
Authors: Carlin Angela , Doherty Leanne C. , O'Kane S. Maria , Jago Russ , Lahart Ian M. , McDermott Gary , Faulkner Maria , Gallagher Alison M. , Murphy Marie H.
Published: August 2024

Background
Physical inactivity in adolescents is a major public health issue. Schools are important settings for physical activity interventions. The WISH Study was a peer-led, school-based walking intervention that aimed to increase physical activity levels of adolescent girls. This study uses the RE-AIM Framework to present the process evaluation of the WISH Study with a focus on factors that affected participation, motivation, and enjoyment of the intervention.
Methods
Pupils (n589 12–14 years) were recruited from 18 schools in the border region of Ireland and Northern Ireland. In intervention schools (n9), older pupils (15–18 years) were trained as walk leaders and led pupils (12–14 years) in brisk walks (10–15 minutes) during the school day, across the school year (2021-22). Questionnaires were administered throughout the intervention, and at the end of the intervention focus groups were held with pupils, and interviews conducted with teachers and walk leaders. Attendance at walks was monitored by walk leaders. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively, and qualitative analysis was undertaken using thematic analysis. Themes were reported under RE-AIM indicators (reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance).
Results
Participating pupils (n286) were representative of adolescent girls in Northern Ireland and Ireland, with 15% of pupils, achieving recommended physical activity guidelines (60 mins moderate-vigorous physical activity per day) at baseline. The total number of walks reported per school ranged from 2-104 across intervention schools. One quarter of pupils (n74, 26%) never attended a walk and 15% (n23) of walk leaders did not lead a walk. Pupils and walk leaders self-reported improvements in their physical health, mental well-being, and social relationships, and walk leaders reported gaining transferrable skills. Implementation was aided by school support in some schools, although barriers such as COVID-19, lack of time, harsh weather, inadequate facilities for indoor walks, and walk leader availability, were identified. Staff engagement was a key driver for the maintenance of walks.
Conclusions
Despite a promising feasibility study and a comprehensive walk leader training programme, the extent to which the intervention was adopted and implemented varied, suggesting future school-based physical activity interventions need to consider individual school contexts to ensure intervention fidelity.
Trial registration
: ISRCTN 12847782
Factors associated with adherence or hesitation to protective measures that influenced the control of COVID-19 in Brazil in the pre-vaccine era
Authors: Araújo Juliana Soares Tenório , Delpino Felipe Mendes , Moura Heriederson Sávio Dias , Nascimento Murilo César , Berra Thaís Zamboni , Ramos Antônio Carlos Vieira , Soares Débora Almeida , Arcêncio Ricardo Alexandre
Published: August 2024

Preventive behavior is one of the main strategies to contain the spread of the coronavirus, understand the factors that influence adherence or hesitation to protective measures and the way the population behaves during a health crisis is of great importance.
Aim: To analyze the factors associated with adherence to protection measures against Covid-19 in Brazil.
Method: cross-sectional study, survey type online, between the period of August 2020 and February 2021. The population included in the study were Brazilians, aged 18 years or older. Non-probabilistic sampling was used to obtain the sample. The data was stored on the "Redcap" platform and analyzed in a descriptive and inferential approach.
Results: The sample consisted of 1,516 people, women adopted 10% more protective measures than men, people with higher education level and higher income, within the age group between 40-59 years, were those who most adhered to the measures imposed by health agencies. Carrier of Asthma, Diabetes Mellitus, Systemic Arterial Hypertension, Obesity and smoking were factors that increased the adherence of protective measures in the fight against COVID-19.
Conclusion: Being female, aged between 40 and 59 years, higher education, smoking, not having a religion, having health insurance, and being a carrier of chronic diseases were associated with greater adherence to protective measures against COVID-19.
Mixed Monitoring Model of Concrete Arch Dam on Residual Sequence Correction
Authors: Wang Zixuan , Fu Shuyan , Chen Dehui , Chi Haoquan , Bin Ou , Yang Meng
Published: August 2024

Under the dual influence of internal factors and the external environment, dam deformation shows a high degree of nonlinear characteristics. In the traditional dam deformation prediction model, an abnormal value of the residual sequence reflects an abnormal situation or potential fault in the dam deformation prediction. Therefore, it is particularly important to fully mine the effective information in the residual sequence. Considering the nonlinear, time-varying and chaotic characteristics of dam time series, a hybrid monitoring model of concrete arch dams based on residual sequence correction is proposed in this paper. Firstly, combined with the finite element method, the statistical model was used to establish the initial mixed prediction model based on the monitoring data. In view of the specific characteristics and periodicity of the prediction residuals of the hybrid model, this paper uses symplectic geometric mode decomposition (SGMD) to decompose the residual sequence. Then, the convolutional neural network (CNN) is optimized by the improved sparrow search algorithm (ISSA), and the decomposed modal components are predicted and reconstructed by the bidirectional gated recurrent unit (BiGRU) of the attention mechanism. Subsequently, the differential autoregressive moving average model (ARIMA) is used to correct the reconstructed residual sequence. Finally, the modified residual sequence is combined with the initial hybrid model to construct a hybrid monitoring model of a concrete arch dam based on residual sequence correction. Through the refinement of the residuals, the accuracy and reliability of the monitoring data are further improved. This provides a new and effective method for safety monitoring and early warning of concrete arch dams.