bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Learner Engagement in Blended Learning Environments: A Conceptual Framework
Authors: Halverson Lisa R. , Graham Charles R.
Published: June 2019

Learner engagement correlates with important educational outcomes, including academic achievement and satisfaction.  Although research is already exploring learner engagement in blended contexts, no theoretical framework guides inquiry or practice, and little consistency or specificity exists in engagement definitions and operationalizations.  Developing definitions, models, and measures of the factors that indicate learner engagement is important to establishing whether changes in instructional methods (facilitators) result in improved engagement (measured via indicators).  This article reviews the existing literature on learner engagement and identifies constructs most relevant to learning in general and blended learning in particular.  We present a possible conceptual framework for engagement that includes cognitive and emotional indicators, offering examples of research measuring these engagement indicators in technology-mediated learning contexts.  Finally, we suggest future studies to test the framework, which we believe can support advances in blended learning engagement research that is increasingly real-time, minimally intrusive, and maximally generalizable across subject matter contexts.
Promoting a Sense of Belonging in Online Learning Communities of Inquiry
Authors: Peacock Susi , Cowan John
Published: June 2019

A sense of belonging (SoB) is a valued concept in campus-based learning, being firmly linked with improved student attainment, increased learners’ satisfaction and reduced attrition rates. Some researchers even assert that learners are unable to fulfil the goals of higher education without acquiring a SoB.  This article recognises that SoB can help promote and consolidate learning and seeks to specify how tutors may nurture online learners’ SoB. An adapted version of the Community Inquiry Framework (CoIF) is used to frame specific suggestions for action. This revision of the well-known Framework focuses upon the overlapping intersections of the three Presences, entitled Influences: ‘Trusting’, ‘Meaning-making’ and ‘Deepening understanding’. For each Influence, guidance illustrated by examples is offered, leading to particular suggestions that concentrate upon the promotion of a sense of belonging as an important aspect of the online tutor’s facilitative activities.
The Efficacy of an Online Cognitive Assessment Tool for Enhancing and Improving Student Academic Outcomes
Authors: Shaw Lindsay , MacIsaac Jann , Singleton-Jackson Jill A.
Published: June 2019

With technology at the fingertips of most undergraduate students, it has been difficult for instructors to fully engage students in the classroom, which has resulted in the creation of several innovative assessment platforms, such as mTuner. mTuner integrates several cognitive learning strategies within an assessment, with the goal of actually enhancing learning, as opposed to just measuring it. In the current study, students’ level of engagement and performance with mTuner were compared to their final multiple-choice paper and pencil exam mark to determine the efficacy of mTuner in achieving improved learning outcomes. Results indicated that students had high performance scores on the mTuner assessment despite their limited engagement in the cognitive learning features, putting to question mTuner’s facilitation of long-term learning. Implications and future recommendations of mTuner implementation in educational environments are discussed.
Open Video Repositories for College Instruction: A Guide to the Social Sciences
Authors: Miller Michael V. , CohenMiller A.S.
Published: June 2019

Key features of open video repositories are outlined, followed by brief description of specific sites relevant to the social sciences. Although most were created by instructors over the past 10 years to facilitate teaching and learning, significant variations in kind, quality, and number per discipline were discovered. Economics and Psychology have the most extensive sets of repositories, while Political Science has the least development. Among original-content websites, Economics has the strongest collection in terms of production values, given substantial support from wealthy donors to advance political and economic agendas. Sociology stands out in having the most developed website in which found-video is applied to teaching and learning. Numerous multidisciplinary sites of quality have also emerged in recent years.
Student engagement as predictor of xMOOC completion: An analysis from five courses on energy sustainability
Authors: Guajardo Leal Brenda Edith , Valenzuela González Jaime Ricardo , Scott John
Published: June 2019

MOOC are characterized as being courses to which a large number of students enroll, but only a small fraction completes them. An understanding of students' engagement construct is essential to minimize dropout rates. This research is of a quantitative design and exploratory in nature, and investigates the interaction between contextual factors (demographic characteristics), student engagement types (academic, behavioral, cognitive and affective), and learning outcomes, with the objective of identifying the factors that are associated with completion of massive and open online courses. Two logistic models were adjusted in two samples, general and secondary, with the binary dependent variable defined as completes the course yes/no. The results in the general sample (15% completion rate) showed that the probabilities of a participant completing the course are positively and significantly related to participation in the forum and the participant educational level, and negatively related to gender (female) and age. The results in the secondary sample (87% completion rate) showed that the probabilities of a participant completing the course are positively and significantly related to participation in the forum,  gender (female), and the motivation and satisfaction indexes, and negatively related to age, having previous experience in other MOOC, and self-efficacy and task strategies indexes. The results lead to ideas on how these variables can be used to support students to persist in these learning environments.
Scribe Hero: An Online Teaching and Learning Approach for the Development of Writing Skills in the Undergraduate Classroom
Authors: Francis Kimberly , Troop Meagan , Salter Jodie , Parahoo Rosheeka , Costanzo Lucia , Desmarais Serge
Published: June 2019

This study examined whether or not writing skills could be taught to post-secondary students via online learning modules and what student perceptions of such a learning process were like. A pilot study of the modules developed—called Scribe Hero—was conducted in the Fall of 2017. Statistical analysis of quantitative data reveals an improvement in student writing skills following their engagement with the online learning modules. Thematic analysis of qualitative data revealed that the students were engaged by the experience, finding it educational and refreshingly different from in-class options. The feedback also suggested that user-friendly technology, tone of the online environment, incentivising meaningful feedback, and maintaining a sense of direct applicability of content are essential to capitalising on this sort of teaching and learning methodology. Overall, the findings of this small-scale research study support further development of this technology while also offering lessons that can be transferred to other contexts for teaching writing.
Introduction to Online Learning, Volume 23, Issue 2
Authors: Shea Peter
Published: June 2019

Introduction to Online Learning, Volume 23, Issue 2
DAKWAH KULTURAL DAN ISLAMISASI DI TERNATE
Authors: Ipaenin Sariyah
Published: June 2019

This article presents a study of the beginning of the cultural propagation movement amid Ternate society which still adheres to animist beliefs and dynamism. The spread of da'wah in Ternate cannot be separated from the Islamization process carried out by Arabs and Persians who trade and establish marriage ties with local communities. These immigrant community groups preach through cultural approaches by utilizing culture as a means, media, and targets. Cultural propaganda has the object of the majority of people who do not know Islam well. If they are familiar with Islam, the common goal is enthusiasm for culture and previous myths that still adhere to strong beliefs. The role and effectiveness of cultural da'wah are needed for the success of the Islamic mission in Indonesia, especially for the people of Ternate.
Viðhorf íslenskra grunnskólanema til eineltis og inngripa í eineltismál út frá reynslu þeirra af einelti
Authors: Sigurgeirsdóttir Vanda , Arnarsson Ársæll Már
Published: June 2019

Einelti er algengt og alvarlegt vandamál í skólastarfi. Þó að skólayfirvöld hér á landi hafi gripið til ýmissa aðgerða til að sporna við einelti hefur árangurinn ekki verið eins góður og vonast var til. Í þessari rannsókn var skoðuð reynsla íslenskra grunnskólanema af einelti og jafnframt könnuð viðhorf þeirra til ýmissa þátta, eins og inngripa kennara, ábyrgðar nemenda, viðbragða áhorfenda og eineltisáætlana skóla. Rannsóknarspurningar voru eftirfarandi: Eru viðhorf nemenda til eineltis ólík eftir reynslu þeirra af einelti? Eru viðhorf nemenda til eineltisáætlana og viðbragða við einelti ólík eftir reynslu þeirra af einelti? Svarendur voru 10.651 nemandi í 6., 8. og 10. bekk á Íslandi veturinn 2013–14 eða 84% af heildarfjölda nemenda í þessum árgöngum. Niðurstöður sýna að hægt er að skipta þátttakendum í fjóra hópa eftir tengslum þeirra við einelti. Hóparnir eru þolendur, gerendur, hvoru tveggja þolendur og gerendur og svo þau börn sem ekki tengjast einelti með beinum hætti. Í rannsókninni voru svör þátttakenda við níu spurningum um einelti skoðuð út frá þessum fjórum hópum. Í ljós kom að viðhorf nemendanna lituðust af reynslu þeirra af einelti. Gerendur og þolendur/gerendur höfðu til að mynda neikvæðari viðhorf til ýmissa þátta. Einnig kom í ljós að aðeins um helmingur þátttakenda taldi sig þekkja eineltisáætlun skóla síns. Þá vakti athygli að um tíu prósent nemenda töldu að einelti væri þolendum að kenna. Auk þess óttaðist nokkur hluti nemenda að mæta í skólann vegna eineltis. Niðurstöður rannsóknarinnar benda til þess að vinna þurfi með viðhorf nemenda og auka umræður og fræðslu um eineltisáætlanir og inngrip í eineltismál.
Orðaforði íslenskra barna frá 4 til 8 ára aldurs: Langtímarannsókn á vaxtarhraða og stöðugleika
Authors: Ragnarsdóttir Hrafnhildur
Published: June 2019

Greinin fjallar um orðaforðahluta rannsóknar á þróun máls og læsis meðal íslenskra barna á aldrinum 4 til 8 ára. Um er að ræða viðamikla langtímarannsókn á f lestum þáttum málþroska og tengslum hans við þróun læsis og félagsþroska. Til að bæta úr skorti á íslenskum mælitækjum fyrir orðaforða var útbúið orðaforðapróf fyrir börn á aldrinum 4 til 8 ára, kallað Í sl -PPV T.Markmið þess hluta rannsóknarinnar sem greinin fjallar um var að af la vísbendinga um vaxtarhraða orðaforða íslenskra barna á mörkum leik- og grunnskóla, kanna stöðugleika mælinga með nýja orðaforðaprófinu milli ára og meta réttmæti þess. Þátttakendur voru 222 börn í tveimur aldurshópum sem sköruðust í 1. bekk. Í yngri hópnum voru 111 börn, 55 stúlkur og 56 drengir, sem fylgt var eftir við 4, 5, 6 og 8 ára aldur. Í þeim eldri voru 46 stúlkur og 65 drengir prófuð með orðaforðaprófinu við 6 og 7 ára aldur. Munur á meðalorðaforða hópanna tveggja í fyrsta bekk var ekki marktækur og því hægt að sameina þá í einn. Niðurstöður sýndu að orðaforði barna vex hratt á þessu aldursbili en jafnframt birtust vísbendingar um mikinn einstaklingsmun strax við 4 ára aldur. Áreiðanleiki og réttmæti Ísl-PPVT reyndist vera fullnægjandi; prófið sýndi marktæka fylgni við aðra orðaforðamælingu (Orðalykil), mælingar á málfræðiþekkingu öll árin, við hlustunarskilning í leikskóla og við lesskilning í 4. bekk. Eins og fjölmargar erlendar rannsóknir sýnir rannsóknin því fram á tengsl orðaforða frá 4 ára við lesskilning og aðra þætti læsis allt upp á miðstig grunnskóla. Í ljósi þess hve mikilvæg undirstaða er lögð á þessum árum fyrir síðari lesskilning og námsárangur hlýtur að vera forgangsatriði að finna þau börn sem standa höllum fæti ekki síðar en við 3 til 4 ára aldur, fylgjast grannt með þeim og tryggja viðeigandi stuðning og námsaðstæður til að fyrirbyggja námsörðugleika síðar.
Non-Surgical Correction of Nasal Dorsum and Tip in Primary Cases
Authors: Yordanov Y. P. , Shef A.
Published: June 2019

Nowadays, minimally invasive and non-invasive approaches in aesthetic medicine are increasingly popular and non-surgical rhinoplasty is one of the procedures with rising demand worldwide. In Bulgaria, this procedure seems to be uncommonly performed, since there are no reports in the local scientific literature. The aim of this preliminary study was to briefly explore the possibilities of hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers for correcting three of the most common nasal deformities – dorsal hump, under-projected and under-rotated nasal tip in primary cases. In order to accomplish this objective, a retrospective clinical study was conducted encompassing 11 cases of the authors’ practices with the above mentioned nasal irregularities and no previous surgical/non-surgical treatment. The analysis of patient-reported outcomes suggested a high satisfaction rate, with no major complication in the series. The HA filler has shown to be safe, relatively easily applicable and highly effective for camouflaging nasal deformities. A special emphasis was put on the patient safety and ten golden rules for staying out of trouble were given.
Antisickling Effects of Quercetin may be Associated with Modulation of Deoxyhaemoglobin, 2, 3-bisphosphoglycerate mutase, Redox Homeostasis and Alteration of Functional Chemistry in Human Sickle Erythrocytes.
Authors: Muhammad Aliyu , Waziri Aliyu Dahiru , Forcados Gilead Ebiegberi , Sanusi Babangida , Sani Hadiza , Malami Ibrahim , Abubakar Ibrahim Babangida , Abbah Musa Fatima , Nelson Ali Tony , Musa Bashir , Mohammed Hafsat Abdullahi
Published: June 2019

It is now glaring that sickle cell anaemia is still one of the highest leading inbred hemoglobinopathy amongst Africans. This study examined the antisickling effects of quercetin via modulation of deoxy-haemoglobin, redox homeostasis and alteration of functional chemistry in human sickle erythrocyte using in silico and in vitro models while espousing preventive and curative approaches. Quercetin was docked against deoxy-haemoglobin and 2, 3-bisphosphoglycerate mutase, with binding energies (−30.427 and −21.106 kcal/mol) and Ki of 0.988μM and 0.992μM at their catalytic sites via strong hydrophobic and hydrogen bond interactions. Induction of sickling was done using 2% metabisulphite at 3h. Treatment with quercetin prevented sickling outstandingly at 5.0μg/mL and reversed same at 7.5μg/mL, 83.6% and 75.9%, respectively. Quercetin also significantly (P<0.05) maintained the integrity of erythrocyte membrane apparently from the observed % haemolysis relative to untreated. Quercetin significantly (P<0.05) prevented and counteracted lipid peroxidation while stimulating GSH and CAT levels which were detected to considerably (P<0.05) increase with simultaneous significant (P<0.05) reduction in SOD level based on curative approach. Umpiring from our FTIR results, a favorable alteration in the part of functional chemistry in terms of shifts (bend and stretches) and functional groups were observed relative to the induced erythrocyte/untreated. Thus, antisickling effects of quercetin may be associated with modulation of deoxy-haemoglobin, redox homeostasis and alteration of functional chemistry in human sickle erythrocytes.
Influence of Tensile Stress on Woven Compression Bandage Structure and Porosity
Authors: Aboalasaad Abdelhamid R.R. , Sirková Brigita Kolčavová , Ahmad Zuhaib
Published: June 2019

Woven compression bandage (CB) is one of the elastic textiles that exert pressure on muscles. With a defined tensile strength, it is possible to create the required compression on the given body parts. This work aims to investigate the relationship between woven fabric deformation, porosity, and tensile stress properties of three main types of woven CBs. All bandage samples are applied on human leg using two- and three-layer bandaging techniques. Bandage porosity is calculated for all frames at different weave angles using NIS software. Woven bandage construction parameters which are given by the preparation of warp and weft yarns, twist, count, and density along with woven fabric weave, type of weaving, and finishing process are the main factors that influence the bandage properties. Several methods considering thread distributions have been developed to determine the woven fabric's porosity during the tensile stress. Experimental results confirm that bandage porosity is directly proportional to the bandage extension and weave angle that ranges from 44° to 90°. The novelty of candidate study is to introduce practical remarks to the patient for optimizing the required bandage pressure by suitable extension or applied tension or weave angle for two- and three-layer bandaging systems.
Freezing of the Subballast Layers of the Railway Formation – High Embankment and Double Track
Authors: Hodás Stanislav , Pultznerová Alžbeta
Published: June 2019

In the paper, a numerical modelling experiment is presented in order to detect the temperature transition through the individual layers of the railway formation during the winter period that is their undesirable freezing. In the experiment, the temperature behaviour and the zero isotherm (0 °C) are investigated. We want to prove that the temperatures are also affected by the volume of mass in the railway formation. The modelling of new experiment has been carried out done on a low and also high embankment of single and double track railway, where the volume of material in the core of the formation is almost doubled. The experiment demonstrated that the greater is the mass of the subballast layers, the higher is the resistance to freezing due to the accumulated heat in the pre-winter period.
HVAC Systems Heat Recovery with Multi-Layered Oscillating Heat Pipes
Authors: Kabát Juraj , Gužela Štefan , Peciar Peter
Published: June 2019

The aim of this work is to investigate a heat performance of a Multi-Layered Oscillating Heat Pipes Heat Exchanger (ML-OHPHE) for the application of heat recovery in heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems (HVAC systems). The heat exchanger is investigated experimentally under different conditions of heat loads and filling ratios. The experimental data results are compared to the data obtained from Honeywell’s UniSim® Design Suite software. In the end the NTU analysis of the ML-OHPHE is done and a value of overall heat transfer coefficient is calculated. The results of the experiments indicate that the ML-OHPHE could serve as a completely passive heat transfer device in the application of heat recovery in HVAC systems.
Posturographic Tests of Candidates for Military Pilots
Authors: Masłowski Wiesław , Opara Tadeusz , Burek Michał
Published: June 2019

One of the many elements of the process of qualifying the candidates for military aircraft pilots is the assessment of the correct functioning of their body balance system, responsible, inter alia, for spatial orientation during a flight. That system continuously controls the spatial position of the center of body mass. To measure that value directly is a complex metrological task. That is why an equivalent measure is used in tests of standing posture stability, i.e. the position of a projection of the center of mass on a supporting plane.

Quantitative information determining the characteristics of the body balance system may be obtained in posturographic tests, which include measurement, recording and assessment of the trajectory of a projection of the examined person’s center of body mass.

At the preliminary stage, examined were nineteen candidates for fighter pilots (one woman and 18 men), students of the Polish Air Force Academy in Dęblin.

Based on the conducted measurements of the body mass center position and the stabilographic tests, the correctness of their balance system performance was assessed. The article discusses the examination methodology, presents measurement results and conclusions.
Eddy-Current Sensor for a Tachometer
Authors: Pieniążek Jacek , Ryba Paulina
Published: June 2019

The speed of a rotor or rotors of a turbine engine is important information on its operation. Due to the specific conditions, in which the measurement is taken in a turbine engine, which in particular applies to small engines that are becoming increasingly popular in manned and unmanned aviation, the most universal detector is the detector using the phenomenon of eddy currents. This article presents the developed detector system solution. The correct operation of a detector is conditional upon the possibility to detect the presence of a blade in the detection field in a reliable manner, while maintaining the resistance to interference. The developed system is resistant to changes in parameters due to the use of a differential system consisting of two detector coils connected in a bridge circuit, a rectifier circuit with filters acting as a demodulator and a comparator. The system works with a microprocessor performing data processing functions. The executed functional model was tested in a laboratory, which enabled to determine its characteristics in several configurations and to confirm its correct operation.
Infrared Signature Suppression Systems in Modern Military Helicopters
Authors: Paszko Mateusz
Published: June 2019

Helicopters play an important role in air-to-ground fire covering and the short-distance air-to-air fights, as well as the anti-tank missions and battlefield force transferring. The detection and survivability of helicopters on a battlefield significantly depends on their infrared emissions level, as well as the methods, equipment and systems used by potential enemy. The automatic detection systems, recognition and identification of flying objects use among other the thermo-detection methods, which rely on detecting the infrared radiation emitted by the tracked object. Furthermore, due to low-altitude and relatively low flight speed, today’s combat assets like missile weapons equipped with infrared guidance systems are one of the most important threats to the helicopters performing combat missions. Especially meaningful in a helicopter aviation is infrared emission by exhaust gases, egressed to the surroundings. Due to high temperature, exhaust gases are a major factor in detectability of a helicopter performing air combat operations. In order to increase the combat effectiveness and survivability of military helicopters, several different types of the infrared suppressor (IRS) have been developed. This paper reviews contemporary developments in this discipline, with particular examples of the infrared signature suppression systems.
Improvement and Optimisation of Gyroplane Performance
Authors: Stalewski Wieńczysław
Published: June 2019

The aim of this study was to investigate possibilities of improving performance characteristics of light gyroplane, as well to propose new or improved solutions enhancing performance of this type of rotorcraft. The study has been conducted based on computational methods of Computational Fluid Dynamics, Flight Dynamics, Computer Aided Design and Optimisation. Results of the research confirm that using advanced computational methods it is possible to improve significantly the performance characteristics of light gyroplane. It can be achieved both through optimisation of the main rotor design and flight control strategy. An unconventional approach to rotorcraft optimisation has been presented, distinguishing by the fact that the objective was calculated based on computer simulations of selected states of gyroplane flight. One of the optimised main rotors had already been examined during flight tests, which confirmed its good perfonnance-and-exploitation properties and its advantage over classic gyroplane rotors. Developed by the author the family of gyroplane airfoils is a valuable alternative to classic airfoils utilised so far. The same applies to the blades built based on those airfoils. In particular, it concerns the unconventional design of the rotor blade of span-variable: chord and relative thickness. The developed methodology of numerical optimisation of flight-control strategy during the jump takeoff of the gyroplane presents an original approach to those problems and may be valuable tool supporting gyroplane-pilot training.
The Role of Internal Corporate Governance Mechanism in Accounting Conservatism
Authors: Nur Mardiani , Anugerah Rita , Indrawati Novita
Published: June 2019

AbstractObjective – This study aims to analyze the influence of internal mechanisms (independent commissioner, ownership structure and audit committee) on accounting conservatism in mining companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the period of 2015-2017. Design/methodology – Secondary data in the form of financial statements are collected from the sub-sector companies in mining industry from the Indonesian capital market directory (ICMD). The data is taken from companies listed in Indonesia stock exchange for the period of 2015-2017. Samples are determined by using purposive sampling method and are selected based on certain considerations or criteria. The analysis model used in this study is path analysis. Results – The results of this study prove that independent commissioners, ownership structures and audit committees have a positive effect on accounting conservatism. Research limitations/implications – This study is perhaps limited in the number of variables used to test the model. There may be other variables that affect accounting conservatism so that further studies can extend this study by utilizing more variables.
Genetic variability of submergence tolerance in rice related to yield and yield contributing traits
Authors: Islam Md Rafiqul
Published: June 2019

Twenty-three rice genotypes were evaluated during kharif II season for understanding the submergence tolerance associated with short-duration and high yielding traits. For this, relative performance of seven quantitative plant traits of the genotypes viz. days to maturity, panicles per hill, panicle weight, spikelets sterility, spikelets per panicle, 1000-seed weight and grain yield were analyzed under normal and submerged conditions. The genotypic variation was found in all the relative plant traits. Multivariate techniques viz. k-means cluster analysis and discriminant function analysis (DFA) were used for grouping the genotypes. Maximum number of genotypes (15) were grouped in cluster 3 followed by cluster 1 (4). The genotype BRRI dhan31, BRRI dhan39, BRRI dhan56 and BRRI dhan57 under cluster 1 performed better compared to other cluster members. DFA showed that function 1 and 2 explained 80.5 percent and 16.9 percent respectively with a cumulative of 97.4 percent of total variance of the genotypes. Panicles per hill, panicle weight, sterility percent, 1000-grain weight and grain yield mostly contributed in grouping the genotypes. The panicle weight followed by grain yield played the major role for the maximum variance in the genotypes. The results suggest that the short-duration genotypes BRRI dhan33 and BRRI dhan56 and BRRI dhan57 performed better under submerged condition and the plant traits like panicle weight or grain yield could be the best choice for submergence tolerance in rice.
DIGITAL COMIC: AN INNOVATION OF USING TOONDOO AS MEDIA TECHNOLOGY FOR TEACHING ENGLISH SHORT STORY
Authors: Fatimah Asri Siti , Santiana Santiana , Saputra Yuyus
Published: June 2019

This study investigates the use of ToonDoo as media technology for teaching English short story. ToonDoo as the newest technology for creating comic or picture story is very beneficial helping teacher to creatively provide innovative strategy providing better classroom environment for the English learners, especially for those studying English short story. As the invented prose narrative shorter than a novel dealing with a few characters, short story can give an important content raising cultural awareness, linguistic awareness, motivation, and is claimed to improve all four skills. Therefore, this study aims at knowing how the implementation of ToonDoo in teaching English short story and finding out the benefits of this tool for teaching performance. To gain the data, reflective journal created by a pre-service teacher who becomes the participant of the study and interview were used to reflect the process of creating Toondoo and the process of teaching English short story using this tool. The findings showed that this tool can be used to promote students� speaking skill. Toondoo is very helpful to facilitate students� imagination promoting their speaking ability, producing better learning experience, and creating a good classroom atmosphere.
THE LOCAL-GLOBAL INNOVATION OF AN INDONESIAN TOEFL-LIKE GAME: A CULTURAL HYBRIDITY MODEL
Authors: Dukut Ekawati Marhaenny
Published: June 2019

The door to globalization for an Indonesian product is believed possible only when fulfilling some characteristics of other nation�s culture. To ensure the global popularity of a product, therefore, there is a need of mixing the local with a global culture. The cultural hybridity strategy of mixing local-global scenes is evident in the invention of a TOEFL-like game software, which based itself on a mobile application for its platform. With the platform, the game becomes easily downloadable through Google Playstore. It is innovative as it accommodates the Generation Z�s characteristics who are digital savvy. In the game, an animation is created for Listening section which takes in some forms of Javanese culture that are made hybrid with some American and Japanese ones. In finding out how successful the game is in fulfilling the needs of TOEFL-like game players, a Technology Accepted Model questionnaire is given to students from Indonesia and Japan. Japanese players, who are English Department students, were chosen on the assumption that they are more digital savvy. This article reports that the game is useful and beneficial in raising the English competence of both Indonesian and Japanese students. With the cultural hybridity strategy in creating the animation, the players agree that the game is a good model for learning about the English language in a fun and innovative way.
TEACHERS� CREATIVITY IN DESIGNING LEARNING ACTIVITIES: SUSTAINING STUDENTS� MOTIVATION
Authors: Khikmah Lailatul
Published: June 2019

Sustaining students� motivation during teaching and learning process, unquestionably, is considered as the most challenging task. Therefore, the teachers have to be mindful and creative in designing an activity as it is the core of the lesson. However, in practice, some teachers are sometimes found to aimlessly use an activity as they run out of idea. Thus, this study is conducted to serve as a reference for the teachers in designing a specific activity that helps the students stay motivated. A descriptive qualitative was employed as the research design to gain deeper analysis on types of activity that encourage the students to learn English. The data were collected through interview which involved 5 professional English teachers as participants. The result revealed that the design of the activity should be appealing and correspond to the students� interest, age, level of proficiency, school policy, materials and media availability. Thus, it is suggested that the teachers should be brave to try out new activity and attend some teachers� training, such as CELTA or DELTA, to improve their teaching skills.
IMPROVING STUDENTS� SPEAKING SKILL BY USING MULTIMEDIA PRESENTATION STRATEGY
Authors: Syafii Muhammad Lukman , Sugianto Alip , Cendriono Nanang
Published: June 2019

Multimedia presentation strategy is one of strategies that can be used for developing students� speaking skills. Therefore, this research is intended to describe how multimedia presentation strategy can improve the eighth graders� speaking skills. A collaborative classroom action research design was employed in this research. This action research was conducted in four main steps, namely planning, implementing, observing, and reflecting. To collect the data, some instruments, i.e. students� oral performance test, the observation checklist, field notes, and questionnaire, were used. The result showed that the students� speaking performance improved from 64.29% in Cycle 1 to 100% in Cycle 2. Meanwhile, the students� involvement has achieved the criteria of success (100% of students) in Cycle 1. Here, they could fulfill at least 2 out of 4 indicators in Cycle 1 and Cycle 2. In addition, the students� perception towards the implementation of Multimedia Presentation strategy was 94.29% and only 5.71% of students who were not interested in the implementation of Multimedia Presentation strategy in teaching speaking skills. Hence, it can be concluded that Multimedia Presentation strategy can improve students� speaking skill.
METHODS FOR TEACHING SPEAKING SKILL AT THAMAR SCHOOLS AND THEIR IMPACTS ON LEARNERS� ORAL COMPETENCY
Authors: Alghaberi Jameel Ahmed
Published: June 2019

In the Republic of Yemen, English is taught as a foreign language (FL) in schools and universities. It is a compulsory subject in the curriculum of Yemeni schools and universities and it is the only foreign language that is taught in all Yemeni Public Schools. However, teachers and educators complain about students� lack of oral competency. Hence, this paper attempts to evaluate the current teaching methods, approaches, techniques and activities used for teaching English speaking skill at Thamar Secondary Public Schools. Besides, it also investigates the utilization of instructional aides as well as technological resources and facilities available at schools in Thamar city. Three different data collection techniques were used, namely observation, questionnaire, and interview. The results revealed that English teachers in Thamar still follow the traditional teaching methods. Above all, speaking skill is almost neglected. The lack of proper teaching methods and activities coupled with the absence of instructional aides stand behind students� deficiency in English speaking. Thus, it is recommended that several training sessions for in-service teachers to be held in order to familiarize them with the methods, techniques, and activities used for teaching English speaking skill.
PROMOTING FOREIGN LANGUAGE LEARNERS� WRITING: COMPARING THE IMPACT OF ORAL CONFERENCING AND COLLABORATIVE WRITING
Authors: Nosratinia Mania , Nikpanjeh Niousha
Published: June 2019

This study is an attempt to compare the effect of oral conferencing alongside collaborative writing on writing skills of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners. For this purpose, a piloted sample of the Preliminary English Test (PET) was administered to 90 intermediate female EFL learners, between 20 and 32 years old (Mage = 26). The results of this test enabled the researchers to select 60 homogenous individuals who were then randomly assigned into two experimental groups of 30 named �oral conferencing group� and �collaborative writing group�. To ensure the homogeneity among the participants in terms of their writing ability before the treatment, their scores on the writing section of the PET test were analyzed in isolation and it was considered as the pretest of the study. Oral conferencing included the discussions and negotiations among the participants and the teacher before and after writing activities followed by live teacher-student as well as student-student feedbacks. In the collaborative writing group, the participants wrote compositions in groups based on the same topics introduced in the oral conferencing group. At the end, both groups were given another piloted writing section of the PET test as the posttest. The analysis of the test scores using an independent sample t-test and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) revealed that there is a significant difference between the effect of oral conferencing and collaborative writing on EFL learners� writing skills. Finally, it can be concluded that EFL learners� writing skill was more affected by applying oral conferencing rather than collaborative writing.
NATIVE ENGLISH SPEAKERS VERSUS NON-NATIVE ENGLISH SPEAKERS: THE IMPACT OF LANGUAGE TEACHERS ON EFL LEARNER'S ENGLISH PROFICIENCY
Authors: Elyas Tariq , Alghofaili Noor Motlaq
Published: June 2019

In the field of TESOL, the perception that Native English Speaking Teachers (NESTs) are better than Non-Native English Speaking Teachers (NNESTs) has influenced language schools, recruitment policies and institutional leadership practices. The tendency to recruit more NESTs and achieve improved learning outcomes can be seen in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) and English as a Second Language (ESL) contexts. This paper aims to investigate whether NESTs or NNESTs have any impact on the EFL learners� language proficiency in Saudi EFL context. This quantitative study adopts pretest-posttest experimental and ex post facto designs to determine students� achievement in two language skills, namely speaking and listening. The two groups of participants are EFL students in a foundation year program at a Saudi Arabian University. One group was taught by a NEST and the other by a NNEST. The quantitative data were analyzed by using SPSS. The findings indicated that teachers� nativeness and backgrounds have no significant effects on the Saudi EFL learners� speaking and listening skills. Here, Saudi EFL learners can equally perform in classes taught by NESTs or NNESTs. In the light of the findings, the study suggests that recruitment policy should not be influenced by the employers� belief that NESTs possess better teaching skills than NNESTs.��
EFFICACY OF METHODOLOGICAL PRACTICES UNDERTAKEN BY SAUDI ENGLISH TEACHERS IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS DURING THEIR FORMATIVE PHASE
Authors: Hussain Majed Othman Aba , Iqbal Muhammad , Khan Imran
Published: June 2019

The main focus of this article is to evaluate the practices involving various approaches and methods that the novice Saudi English Teachers (SETs) employ in classrooms, and to see how far these are successful in attaining the desired results. It also takes into cognizance the chasm between the measures taken by Saudi Ministry of Education to modify the curriculum to develop communicative competence and the actualization these measures in the classroom pedagogy. The dichotomy eventually brings to bear upon the learning outcomes of the students who fail to achieve the required proficiency in communicative skills. The study necessitated a qualitative approach (grounded theory) in which previous literature was ransacked. Data was gathered through structured interviews, surveys and documents analysis. The rudimentary results showed that SETs rely more on conventional teaching methods despite the States thrust on Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) that tends to be more student-centered, cooperative and collaborative.
HIGHER ORDER THINKING SKILLS AMONG ENGLISH TEACHERS ACROSS GENERATION IN EFL CLASSROOM
Authors: Mursyid Mursyid , Kurniawati Nia
Published: June 2019

Higher order thinking skills are the next cognitive ability to evaluate, analyze and create. It is a must for English teachers across generation (Baby Boomers, Generation X, and Generation Y) to grasp and implement the idea of HOTS in their classrooms. Teaching English in EFL setting certainly forces the teachers to have expertise in planning the learning activities that would foster students� thinking skills, especially their HOTS. This study aims at investigating the perceptions, the practice, and the constraints in endorsing higher order thinking skills in teaching foreign language. This case study involved seven senior high school English teachers from three generations (Baby Boomers, generation X, and generation Y). Data were collected through open-ended questionnaire, classroom observation, and document analysis for triangulation purpose. Data were then categorized and classified to form themes for the study. The results showed that teachers from all generation are aware of HOTS and they are applying it in their teaching in a different way. However, some obstacles are still found in incorporating HOTS in their classroom.
Déjà vu!
Authors: Simoneau Guy G.
Published: June 2019

Interim Editor-in-Chief Guy G. Simoneau reflects on the Journal and its growth over the past 18 months. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2019;49(6):366. doi:10.2519/jospt.2019.0103
Selective Fatty Replacement of Paraspinal Muscles in Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Shahidi Bahar , Ward Samuel R.
Published: June 2019

A 65-year-old man with a history of facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy presented to his physician with a complaint of new-onset low back pain, bilateral foot numbness, and left lower extremity radicular symptoms with foot drop. He subsequently underwent magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar spine, which revealed complete fatty replacement of the erector spinae musculature throughout the lumbar spine. Preservation of the lumbar multifidus muscles above the L4 level was observed, which has not previously been reported in patients with this condition. The patient's lower extremity symptoms were consistent with left L5-S1 radiculopathy, and the magnetic resonance images indicated mild to moderate central canal stenosis at L2-L3 with severe bilateral L5-S1 foraminal narrowing. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2019;49(6):483. doi:10.2519/jospt.2019.8815
Changes in Structure and Function of the Back Muscles in Low Back Pain: Different Time Points, Observations, and Mechanisms
Authors: Hodges Paul W. , Danneels Lieven
Published: June 2019

Synopsis

Spinal health depends on optimal back muscle performance, and this is determined by muscle structure and function. There has been substantial research evaluating the differences in structure and function of many back muscles, including the multifidus and erector spinae, but with considerable variation in results. Many studies have shown atrophy, fat infiltration, and connective tissue accumulation in back muscles, particularly deep fibers of the multifidus, but the results are not uniform. In terms of function, results are also somewhat inconsistent, often reporting lower multifidus activation and augmented recruitment of more superficial components of the multifidus and erector spinae, but, again, with variation between studies. A major recent observation has been the identification of time-dependent differences in features of back muscle adaptation, from acute to subacute/recurrent to chronic states of the condition. Further, these adaptations have been shown to be explained by different time-dependent mechanisms. This has substantial impact on the rationale for rehabilitation approaches. The aim of this commentary was to review and consolidate the breadth of research investigating adaptation in back muscle structure and function, to consider explanations for some of the variation between studies, and to propose how this model can be used to guide rehabilitation in a manner that is tailored to individual patients and to underlying mechanisms. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2019;49(6):464–476. doi:10.2519/jospt.2019.8827
Cutting to the Pathophysiology Chase: Translating Cutting-Edge Neuroscience to Rehabilitation Practice in Sports-Related Concussion Management
Authors: Chen Yufen , Herrold Amy A. , Gallagher Virginia T. , Reilly James L. , Parrish Todd , Breiter Hans C.
Published: June 2019

Synopsis

Mild traumatic brain injury, or concussion, is a common sports injury. Concussion involves physical injury to brain tissue and vascular and axonal damage that manifests as transient and often nonspecific clinical symptoms. Concussion diagnosis is challenging, and the relationship between brain injury and clinical symptoms is unclear. The purpose of this commentary was to translate cutting-edge neuroscience to rehabilitation practice. We (1) highlight potential biomarkers that may improve our understanding of concussion and its recovery, (2) explain why researchers must address the paucity of concussion research in female athletes, and (3) present female-specific factors that should be accounted for in future studies. Integrating objective, quantitative measures of concussion pathophysiology with concussion history, genetics, and genomics will help caregivers identify concussed athletes, tailor recovery protocols, and protect athletes from potential long-term effects of cumulative head impact. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2019;49(11):811–818. Epub 1 Jun 2019. doi:10.2519/jospt.2019.8884
Development and Validation of Stability Indicating HPTLC Method for Estimation of Salmeterol Xinafoate
Authors: M Damle , S Choudhari
Published: June 2019

A simple, rapid validated stability indicating HPTLC method for estimation of Salmeterol xinafoate was successfully
developed. This method is based on HPTLC separation followed by UV detection at 252 nm. The separation was carried
out on Merck TLC aluminium sheets precoated with silica gel 60F254 using Chloroform: Methanol: Ammonia (7:3:0.5
v/v/v) as a mobile phase and scanning was done by using TLC Scanner III. Salmeterol xinafoate gave well defined and
sharp peak at Rf 0.52 ± 0.05 at 252 nm. Calibration curve was linear in range 1000-3000 ng/band for Salmeterol xinafoate.
Stress degradation study includes hydrolysis under different pH, oxidation, thermal and photolytic conditions. The
suitability of this HPTLC method for quantitative estimation of Salmeterol xinafoate was proved by validation in
accordance with requirements of ICH guidelines Q2A (R1).
Age of Menarche in Females of Al-Ramadi City/Iraq
Authors: Murshid Rafal Mustafa
Published: June 2019

Aim of the study: Estimate the age of menarche in females of Al-Ramadi city/Iraq. Methodology: This is a retrospective
descriptive cross sectional study carried out in Al Ramadi city from the 1stof March to the 1st of May 2017. Data were
collected from 404 secondary school girls selected randomly from different secondary schools according to the
population density of Ramadi city areas. Age of menarche divided in to early menarche (8- less thN 11 years age), normal
menarche (11-14 years), and late menarche (14-16 years). Questionnaire was filled by the family and included female's
age, age of onset of her menarche, father and mother's job, education, residency, economic, psychological status and the
level of stress the family during onset of menarche. Results: The age range of the studied females was 12 to 18 years.
Their mean age of menarche was 13.25 years. About 89% of the respondents were found to be within normal age of
menarche, 10.3% of late menarche, and 0.5% had early menarche. The most frequent age of starting menarche was at 13
years (39.1%) followed by 14 years. Normal age menarche was found to be more prevalent among urban dwellers,
females of house wife mothers, employed fathers, educated parents, living in their owned houses, and of less life stress.
Conclusion: The mean age of menarche in Ramadi city was 13.25 and was higher than age recorded in Baghdad and
consistent with ages recoded in many other neighboring and far countries.
Keyword: Menarche, Ramadi; Females.