bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Anxiety on B1 Level College Students' Oral Competence in the English Language
Authors: Guanuche Díaz Ruben Patricio , Torres Asanza Sandro Vinicio , Rojas González Livington Javier , Tituana Moncada Lorena Janneth
Published: September 2024

Oral communication is essential for anyone wishing to learn a foreign language. Feelings of anxiety and nervousness are common among learners and negatively influence the development of oral proficiency. This study aims to investigate the levels of anxiety present in the study and its impact on oral competence in a second language among students of Food Engineering, Chemical Engineering, and Biochemistry & Pharmacy at UTMACH. For this research, quantitative and qualitative methods were applied through the Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety Scale (FLCAS) developed by Horwitz (1986) and interviews to collect and analyze information on the feelings students experience when speaking English. The total sample consisted of 147 students, 87 of whom were B1 proficient according to the CEFR. JAMOVI 2.3.28.0 was used to analyse the scores, and MAXQDA24 was used for qualitative analysis. The results showed that anxiety towards learning English has a significant and negative correlation with students' oral proficiency development.
Factores que Determinan el Desarrollo Emocional de Niños del Colegio Anáhuac, Villahermosa, Tabasco
Authors: Leyva Trejo Samantha , García Cupil Rigoberto , Gómez López Edna María
Published: September 2024

El estudio "Factores que Determinan el Desarrollo Emocional de Niños del Colegio Anáhuac, Villahermosa, Tabasco" investiga los elementos que influyen en el desarrollo emocional de los estudiantes de nivel primario. Utilizando un enfoque de métodos mixtos, la investigación examina el impacto de la tecnología digital, los estilos de crianza, las prácticas educativas, y los factores socioeconómicos y culturales. Se seleccionó una muestra representativa de estudiantes, padres y maestros del Colegio Anáhuac para participar en cuestionarios, entrevistas y observaciones. Los resultados preliminares sugieren que el uso excesivo de la tecnología está asociado con niveles elevados de ansiedad y una disminución en las habilidades de interacción social. Además, los estilos de crianza autoritativos se correlacionan con mejores habilidades de regulación emocional en comparación con otros estilos parentales. Las prácticas educativas que incorporan programas de aprendizaje socioemocional (SEL) muestran un impacto positivo en el comportamiento prosocial y el rendimiento académico. El análisis también revela que los factores socioeconómicos y culturales modulan significativamente estos efectos, subrayando la importancia de un enfoque integral en la promoción del bienestar emocional. El estudio concluye con recomendaciones para implementar estrategias educativas y familiares que apoyen el desarrollo emocional equilibrado de los estudiantes, contribuyendo a su éxito académico y social.
Proyectos Integradores, Elemento Clave para el Perfil de Egreso en Educación Media Superior en México
Authors: Ortiz Flores Nancy , López Hernández Yolanda
Published: September 2024

Se presenta este proyecto el cual tiene enfoque cuantitativo con alcance descriptivo. Se abordan conceptualmente las variables dependiente e independiente dentro de un diseño no experimental de tipo transversal, a través del método de muestreo no probabilístico del tipo por conveniencia para seleccionar participantes representativos. Se adoptan posturas teóricas y lineamientos pertinentes al nivel de EMS en la discusión conceptual del estudio. Se emplean técnicas e instrumentos que permiten cuantificar, puntualmente y con datos medibles, la percepción que los estudiantes tienen respecto de la eficiencia de los proyectos integradores en el Nivel Medio Superior, en la comunidad de Santiago Papasquiaro, Durango, México. Se incluye el establecimiento de hipótesis y cronograma con actividades que guían su desarrollo. Las técnicas y procedimientos que se emplean aseguran su replicabilidad y validez, para obtener resultados confiables y significativos. Finalmente, exploramos la relación entre el nivel de desarrollo de las competencias del perfil de egreso de la EMS y la percepción de eficiencia en los PI. Este análisis busca confirmar si existe una correlación significativa entre estos aspectos, así mismo, contribuye al enriquecimiento de un mejor entendimiento sobre esta relación y su impacto en el desarrollo de competencias cruciales en los estudiantes de EMS.
Gestión de Residuos Sólidos: Estudio de Casos y Lecciones Aprendidas en Ciudades Intermedia aplicables en el contexto latinoamericano y Perú
Authors: Castro Fuentes Efraín M.
Published: September 2024

El estudio analiza la gestión de residuos sólidos en ciudades intermedias y subraya su importancia para el desarrollo urbano sostenible. Se analizan siete ciudades intermedias de todo el mundo con 100.000 a 500.000 habitantes que han implementado estrategias efectivas para la gestión de residuos sólidos y la promoción de la economía circular. Se incluyen casos en Liubliana (Eslovenia), San Sebastián (España), Curitiba (Brasil), Providencia (Chile), Friburgo (Alemania) y Bergen (Noruega) entre los que se ha realizado un análisis. Cada urbe ha adoptado estrategias novedosas, como sistemas de recolección selectiva, educación ambiental, fomento de la economía circular y uso de tecnologías avanzadas. La importancia de la educación ambiental desde temprana edad, la necesidad de sistemas de recolección selectiva eficientes, la participación de la comunidad y la promoción de la economía circular son algunas de las lecciones importantes que se aprenden.  Además, se enfatiza la importancia crucial del respaldo gubernamental y la colaboración internacional para llevar a cabo políticas y programas de gestión de residuos sostenibles. Es posible que estas enseñanzas sean útiles en América Latina, particularmente en Perú, donde la gestión de desechos sólidos es un desafío significativo.  La implementación de prácticas exitosas podría generar importantes beneficios económicos y ambientales, fomentando un desarrollo urbano más sostenible en la zona.
El Mundo De La Contabilidad: Razona, Domina y Registra
Authors: Velásquez Gutiérrez Martha Tatiana , Mendoza Vera Cristina Azucena , Veliz Valencia Mercedes Noemi , Zambrano Zambrano Elisa Juverly , Mendoza Fernández Verónica Monserrate
Published: September 2024

La presente obra tiene el objetivo de proporcionar una fuente de información -y de utilidad, a las perspectivas de la Contabilidad. Se trata, por tanto, de un objetivo hermoso, a la vez que inacaba- do, ya que la obra, aunque aglutina un número importante de información, no es sino el primer paso para que en una ulterior edición se incorpore mayor información, y constituya así un crisol en el que aparezcan finalmente un producto acabado. El mundo tan atractivo dentro del cual nos ha tocado vivir; constituye una realidad cada vez más integrada y globalizada, lo que en el terreno económico obliga a los sujetos y unidades económicas a estar más informados en cada momento de lo que sucede, 0 lo que se hace, en los restantes lugares del orbe internacional. Es un hecho que la información es poder, y que, si no se dispone de un mínimo de información detallada y actual sobre la contabilidad, se contrae un alto riesgo de quedar obsoleto, y no poder así sobrevivir en este dinámico y turbulento mundo de las empresas y los negocio. En este contexto toma especial relevancia la Contabilidad, como sistema de información interna que puede servir de eficaz instrumento o de brújula para poder navegar -con menor riesgo de ir a la deriva- en este apasionante mar de la competitividad, tanto nacional como internacional. Hoy día las empresas, al menos las de cierta dimensión, no van a poder ser competitivas si no poseen una radiografía permanente de su organismo económico, de cómo se encuentran sus órganos o centros, de su nivel de circulación o de realizaciones, o de la eficacia o la eficiencia de aquello que están haciendo, y todo ello en tiempo real, de forma que en términos propios, y en comparación con el mercado y empresas del entorno y de sus movimientos económicos a lo interno , puedan tomar decisiones que les permitan optimizar y avanzar en este desafío constante que supone mejorar su nivel de competitividad. Nos parece muy importante, en este sentido, que se puedan mejorar las prácticas y el desarrollo de la Contabilidad en las empresas, para lo cual puede resultar muy útil conocer lo que se hace a este respecto, con el fin de tener así una referencia en este contexto tan abierto y necesariamente interrelacionado. La información de los demás puede contribuir a que cada uno se pueda posicionar más eficazmente, y se puedan tomar ciertas decisiones, o al menos actuar en base a nuevas perspectivas de actuación futuras. Nos gusta suponer un enriquecimiento, ampliación y modernización de la tradicional Contabilidad, ampliando los horizontes de ésta, y abarcando nuevos ámbitos, planteamientos, tipos de variables (de índole medio- ambiental, sobre la calidad, sobre los procesos o actividades, etc.), variables tanto de carácter monetario como no monetario, y no quedando sólo relegada, por tanto, al ámbito de los costes.
Análise de Investimento de Retrofits de Fachadas em Edificações Públicas: estudo de caso dos blocos a da Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul (UFFS)
Authors: TISCHER Wellington
Published: September 2024

Projetos de obras públicas deveriam ser elaborados visando economicidade de recursos. Os custos de manutenção e operação de alternativas tecnológicas são frequentemente subestimados e é mais provável que um sistema seja escolhido levando-se em consideração o custo de implantação diante de incertezas com relação a durabilidade de materiais e elementos construtivos. A escolha de sistemas de fachadas mais manuteníveis pode contribuir com a redução de custos globais das edificações ao longo da vida útil da edificação. Os indicadores de viabilidade econômica como Valor Presente Líquido (VPL), a Taxa Interna de Retorno (TIR), o tempo de retorno (payback) e o Índice Benefício-Custo (IBC) permitem apontar a alternativa economicamente mais viável. Os custos de manutenção podem variar significativamente inclusive em edificações ditas “padronizadas” sendo necessário o uso de simulação para predição e interpretação de diferentes cenários futuros. A Simulação de Monte Carlo (SMC) permite uma abordagem estocástica com simulação de grande número de casos a partir de diferentes horizontes de análise, taxas de juros, investimentos iniciais, valor residual, custos e receitas. Utilizou-se o Sistema de Análise de Viabilidade Econômica de Projetos de Investimento (SAVEPI) para comparar três alternativas de obras executadas a partir de levantamentos sistematizados de falhas e manifestações patológicas ocorridas nos Blocos de Salas de Aula da Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul (UFFS) entre 2013 e 2023. Essas edificações foram construídas em estruturas pré-moldadas de concreto com sistemas de vedação em alvenaria de blocos cerâmicos. Os cenários analisados comparam i) alternativa 1 sem alteração do sistema de fachada com falhas e manifestações patológicas generalizadas de 2013 a 2018; ii) alternativa 2 de retrofit de revestimento metálico de fachadas de 2019 a 2023 e iii) alternativa 3 de projeto de retrofit substituição de paredes de alvenaria por painéis de concreto pré-moldados. Os resultados apontam que a alternativa 2 possui viabilidade econômica em 25 anos na comparação com a alternativa 1 em mais de 95% dos cenários simulados de VPL e TIR. Com relação aos indicadores mais prováveis, em uma abordagem determinística, o VPL calculado (R$97.128,52) é positivo e representa quase 40% do custo do custo de implantação do projeto (R$266.000,00) e a TIR (13,96%) é o dobro do índice utilizado como Taxa Mínima de Atratividade (TMA) ao longo dos anos (7,14%), o que indica que a alternativa 2 de revestir as fachadas em painéis metálicos demonstrou-se viável.
The Effect of Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation on Employee Performance
Authors: Buana Nangku , Rahmayati Rahmayati
Published: September 2024

Knowing how employees of PT. BPRS Puduarta Insani Medan are motivated, both internally and externally, to give their best performance is the driving force of this research. This study involved a total of 21 participants. This study used a quantitative approach and utilized a sampling technique known as saturated sampling. The data collection process involved distributing questionnaires and utilizing a Likert scale as a means to quantify participant responses. This study used SPSS version 26 for data analysis and multiple linear regression. Based on the results of the t-test, both internal and external factors significantly affect worker output. The results showed that, compared to extrinsic motivation, intrinsic motivation has a significant impact on worker output.
Novel Approach to the Synthesis of Silica Gel: Sequential Mechanical Activation and Sol-Gel Methods from Fly Ash Derived from Coal
Authors: Rafryanto Ande Fudja , Batrisya Azra Liyana , Charlie Dicky Andro , Arramel Arramel
Published: September 2024

Exploration of unconventional resources and the reuse of industrial by-products are critical for advancing environmental sustainability. In this study, we propose a sequential mechano-activation and sol-gel method to synthesize silica gel (SG) from coal fly ash (CFA). The raw CFA used in this study contains 49.54% SiO2, with 99% of the particles measuring approximately 210 nm in size, as determined by XRF and Particle size analysis. Our findings indicate that the SG surface is rich in SiO- species, evidenced by the presence of silanol (Si-OH) and siloxane (Si-O) groups in FTIR and Raman analyses. XRD analysis confirmed the amorphous nature of the SG produced from CFA. Additionally, the SG obtained had a particle size of around 97 nm for 90% of the population. This work addresses the issue of coal waste management and provides promising material for wide application.
Single Phase Multilevel Inverter Based on Single Carrier Pulse Width Modulation Algorithm
Authors: Hendawi Essam
Published: September 2024

High frequency pulse width modulation techniques play very important role in multilevel inverter MLI applications where those techniques overcome the problems associated with their low frequency modulation counterpart techniques.  Multicarrier sinusoidal pulse width modulation (MC-SPWM) is a common technique for achieving high frequency modulation and control in MLIs.  The complexity, high cost, synchronization are very important issues when implementing MC-SPWM in real time.  This paper presents a simple, high effective algorithm to overcome the problems and difficulties of MC-SPWM.  The proposed algorithm employs a unique carrier signal instead of multicarrier waveforms thus significantly reduce the complexity and cost as well.  The algorithm is applied to 15-level, 7-level and 13-level  multilevel inverters to prove its effectiveness.  Simulation and experimental validation of the system verify the high performance of the proposed algorithm.
Brain MRI and CT Image Fusion Using Multiscale Local Extrema and Image Statistics
Authors: Venkata Srikanth Mocherla , A.Suneel Kumar  , B.Nagasirisha  , Lakshmi T.Venkata
Published: September 2024

In medical applications such as radiotherapy and guided-image surgery, data fusion for diagnostic imaging has emerged as a critical issue. Because the objective of medical image fusion is to improve patient diagnosis accuracy, the fused image is created by preserving the source images' prominent details and features. It has been demonstrated that the Multi-Level Local Extrema representation has numerous advantages over traditional image modeling approaches. We propose an innovative MLE-based fusion method for multimodal medical images in this paper. In the MLE schema, the proposed algorithm decomposes source images into coarse and detailed layers, then fuses the source images using weights calculated from these detail images using image statistics. We visually and quantitatively compared the efficacy of the suggested approach to that of existing methods using five different types of medical images from various sources. The experimental results showed that the proposed scheme outperforms other current typical schemes in terms of both qualitative image quality and objective evaluation.
Enhancing Fronthaul Network Connectivity by utilizing a RoF-WDM Structure with MM Wave Transmission
Authors: Fellag chebra Abdennour , Borsali Ahmed Riad , Rouissat Mehdi
Published: September 2024

The future 5G wireless system will provide communication systems with a new advanced features to cover a large area with providing high bandwidth Millimeter wave (MM Wave) processing speed, in which case transmission technologies become more important and require large amounts of data, a large number of channels and lower cost. This paper reports the design of MM wave optical generation with 60 GHz based on RoF-WDM technique for long-distance optical fiber. The bloc scheme consists of 64 channels generated using Dual-Parallel Mach-Zehnder Modulator (DP-MZM) modulators for high data rate optical transmission. The performance was evaluated and analyzed in terms of various parameters such as optical fiber distance, input power and data rate, the simulation results are reported using Bit Error Rate (BER), Q-factor, Optical Signal-to-Noise Ratio (OSNR), and Eye Diagrams. The System efficiency provides an average BER of 4.0309e-10 with optical fiber link of 120 km and 10 Gbps data rate per channel, it also provides 18 Gbps per channel for 100 km of Standard Single Mode Fiber (SSMF). In this work, the integration of different techniques is viewed as a unique perspective of radio over fiber systems towards a wireless communication network.
Development of an On-Grid Low-Voltage Battery Energy Storage System with Balancing Dual-DC-Voltage Quasi Single-Stage Converter
Authors: Kumsuwan Yuttana , Jarutus Neerakorn
Published: September 2024

With low-voltage (LV) battery energy storage systems (BESSs), the quasi single-stage converters (QSSCs) are utilized to reduce power consumption in two-stage conversion systems. Despite a good waveform quality of applying multilevel converters, the unbalancing voltage problems is possible to be contributed, such as decrease in grid quality and complexity in pulse-width-modulation (PWM). In this paper, it is the main challenge to solve these problems for developing the on-grid LV BESS with the QSSC. Balancing voltage control is proposed to control the dc-dc converter. As a result, the dual dc voltages are equalized. The system waveform quality and power quality can be improved. The PWM stage is then symmetrical and simplified. For more simplicity, the two-inphase carrier-based PWM is applied. The continuous non-sinusoidal scheme is preferred to not only provide the full dc utilization, but also improve the grid waveform quality in addition to the improvement from the proposed control method. Besides, the powers are simply controlled using the basic of the current vector control and decoupling from the balancing voltage control, resulting in the grid-connected enhancement without affecting the waveform quality. A 10-kW-microgrid-scale BESS is employed to validate the feasibility of the proposed system and its superiority over conventional systems.
Minimal Realization Plus Current Output CC-based Biquad Circuit
Authors: Wisetphanichkij Sompong , Angkeaw Krit , Sra-ium Napat
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a minimal design of a biquad circuit using only one plus current output type-II current conveyor (CCII), one differential voltage current conveyor (DVCC) and grounded passive components. The circuit enables the implementation of all 5 basic filter types: low-pass (LP), band-pass (BP), high-pass (HP), band-stop (BS) and all-pass (AP) by the selecting and adding of the input and output currents with no component matching constraints. Moreover, the circuit parameters ω0 and Q can be set simply by adjusting the circuit components. The proposed biquad circuit performance has very low sensitivity to circuit components due to its simple structure and a small number of devices (2 active and 4 grounded passive components). This allows the circuit to work at high frequencies. The performance of the proposed topology was evaluated through PSPICE simulator using the 0.18 mm CMOS technology from the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC).
A new high step-up single switch DC-DC converter with soft switching on all semiconductor elements
Authors: Vesali Mahmood
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a high step-up DC-DC converter. The converter has a simple structure and without adding any auxiliary switch, soft switching condition is provided in the converter. Due to the fact that any switch is not added to the converter, there is no need to design a new control circuit for this converter and the basic control circuit structure is suitable for this converter. In the proposed converter with minimum number of auxiliary elements soft switching condition provides, which in addition to have a simple structure, reduces losses and increases efficiency. soft switching condition is provided under zero current switching (ZCS) when switch is turned on and under zero voltage switching (ZVS) when the switch is turned off. The voltage stress on the switch is at a lower level than the output voltage of the converter, which the switch can use with low voltage. Also, not much current stress is imposed on the switch, which does not require a very high current switch. The proposed converter has been completely analyzed and in order to prove the theoretical analysis, the converter is implemented at a power of 500 watts and at a full load the efficiency of about 97.2% is obtained.
The Estimation of Breakdown Voltage of Vegetable Oil using Support Vector Machine
Authors: Das Supriyo , Iqbal Adnan
Published: September 2024

Oil as an insulating medium is widely used in power apparatus and it is important to have knowledge about its breakdown characteristics. Support Vector Machine (SVM) can be a fruitful tool for breakdown voltage (BDV) estimation. In this work, the objective is to explore the application of Support Vector Machine (SVM) to estimate breakdown voltage. Experiments are carried out on vegetable oil to obtain its breakdown voltage using Weibull distribution. Further, the experiments are done for different electrode gap and electrode shape. The experimental results are fed to SVM to train, test and estimate BDV. At the breakdown condition, the electric field features are extracted from the simulated electric field distribution. The electric field features are processed using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to obtain the significant electric field parameter that contributes to breakdown characteristics of the oil medium.  The output of PCA is used to construct a classification model to predict breakdown voltage by Support Vector Machine (SVM). The optimum value of SVM parameters are obtained using grid search and K – fold cross validation technique. The tuned SVM model is used to estimate the breakdown voltage of the oil medium under different electrode gap and shape. It is seen that the estimated BDV fairly matches with the experimental results. This shows the significance of using electric field features to predict breakdown voltage using SVM.
Edge-based Federated Learning to Enhance the Security of IoT
Authors: Eskandari Zahra
Published: September 2024

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) has enabled network components to make independent decisions, but this capability also poses a risk of malicious attacks in unsupervised and trustless environments. To overcome this issue, the article proposes a distributed collaborative detection approach that utilizes edge nodes as voters to monitor the training process, tackle PA, and improve the accuracy of the global model. The proposed approach isevaluated using the UNSW-NB15 dataset in both IID and non- IID scenarios, and the results demonstrate the effectiveness of the approach in improving the accuracy of FL even in the presence of PA.
Meta-Analysis Of Genetic Algorithm Implementation For Optimization Of Artificial Neural Network Methods
Authors: Artawan Komang Nova , Dharma Agus , Sudestra I Made Ardi
Published: September 2024

One of artificial intelligence methods, which is artificial neural networks, have been widely used in data analysis to make predictions, forecasting, and data classification. The artificial neural network method has convergence or local minimum problems because it requires randomly generated weight values. There is a lot of research that discusses optimization techniques for initiating this initial weight to solve that problem. In this study, a meta-analysis was carried out regarding the implementation of genetic algorithms for optimization of artificial neural network methods. Based on 10 journals that has reviewed in this study, it was concluded that optimization of the genetic algorithm can increase the output value of the artificial neural network by 3.44%, but this genetic algorithm optimization have no significant effect based on the sig (2-tailed) value is 0.595 and t count value is 0.551 that have been obtained and tested using paired samples t-test method with help of SPSS software.
Optimizing Scholarship Selection: A Decision Support System Approach Using the Analytical Hierarchy Process
Authors: Yusuf Novianto Agus
Published: September 2024

Scholarship is the provision of financial assistance to individuals, which aims to be used for the continuity of the education pursued. Per the scholarship provider's regulations, criteria are needed to determine who will be selected to receive the scholarship. Scholars are distributed by schools or other parties that organize scholarships to help someone who is underprivileged or who has achieved something during his studies. A decision support system is needed to help determine someone who deserves a scholarship. This system can analyze academic performance, financial needs, extracurricular activities, and personal statements to determine the most deserving candidates. By using a decision support system, scholarship providers can ensure that the scholarships are given to individuals who benefit the most from the financial assistance and are dedicated to their education. Ultimately, scholarships aim to help individuals overcome financial barriers and achieve their academic and career goals.
Analyzing the Right to Abortion through the Principle of Proportionality: Focusing on the European Court of Human Rights’ analysis of M.L. v. Poland(2023)
Authors:   Legal Research Institute of Chonnam National University, Jun Hyungjoon , Lee Hyun Jung
Published: September 2024

The right to abortion remains a controversial issue and a subject of cultural and religious challenges and conflicts to universal human rights. Within the European Union (EU), this right is affected by a variety of factors. National laws, cultural norms, and political ideologies shape the lively debate, which is the basis for the existence of various laws and regulations within the EU. At the center of this debate is the discussion of women's rights and reproductive autonomy. The fight for abortion rights is primarily about asserting the right to take responsibility for one's own bodily integrity and reproductive decisions. This includes access to legal and safe abortion services. However, the legal conditions for this vary greatly across the member states of the European Union. This paper examines the debate surrounding the right to abortion through the lens of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) case M.L. v. Poland (2023) and addresses the question of discrimination under Article 14 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), which is at the center of the case. In particular, it examines how the right to abortion can be reconciled with the principle of proportionality. The debate on abortion rights in the European Union is multi-layered and has social, legal, and political implications. First of all, abortion rights are a human rights issue. Reproductive autonomy and a woman's right to self-determination are fundamental human rights enshrined in international conventions and the European Convention on Human Rights. The M.L. v. Poland case addresses the issues that arise when national laws and cultural norms conflict with European and international human rights standards. The proportionality test for abortion rights involves basic ethical questions about life, autonomy, and societal moral obligations to individuals. Research addressing this question will contribute to a deeper understanding of the complex interconnections of the issues surrounding the right to abortion and to identifying possible ways in which the European Union and individual Member States can find harmonious and just solutions to the right to abortion.
Digital technology adoption and school leadership in the post-pandemic era: Insights from high school leaders
Authors: Okunlola John Olayemi
Published: September 2024

Integrating digital technologies into the educational landscape seems to be a defining factor for learning and leading in the pandemic and post-pandemic era. Hence, this study examines the impact of digital technology adoption on school leadership and management in the post-pan­demic era, focusing on high school leaders' experiences in Oyo State, Nigeria. The theoretical framework is anchored on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), which elucidates factors influencing technology adoption through perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and attitude toward usage. The study used a descriptive research design and sampled 227 high school leaders across three senatorial districts, collecting data via a validated questionnaire. The reliability index of the instruments is as follows: school leaders' digital technology adoption (? =0.85), digital media tools' usage (? =0.95), and professional development opportunities (? =0.84). Results indicate a positive influence of digital technology on school leadership and management, enhancing communication, virtual administration, performance monitoring, and breaking spatial-temporal barriers. WhatsApp, Email, Google Forms, and Zoom were identified as the most frequently used digital media tools, while professional development in digital technologies was provided to a moderate extent for 58.2% of high leaders. The findings demonstrate the need for more extensive professional development programs by indicating a considerable investment in school leaders' digital competency development, but not all-encompassing. Recommendations include enhancing the quality and frequency of training, promoting diverse digital tools, tailoring professional development to specific needs, and implementing regular assessment and feedback systems to improve digital technology integration in schools.
The Influence of Creative Coding, Robotics, and Artificial Intelligence on Educational Practices: Teachers’ Perspectives
Authors: Maqoqa Thabisa
Published: September 2024

Integrating Coding, Robotics, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) into educational practices represents a paradigm shift in how knowledge is imparted and acquired. This paper explored the multifaceted impact of these advanced technologies on contemporary education, highlighting their potential to enhance engagement, foster personalized learning experiences, and cultivate essential skills for the future. The study aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of how Coding, Robotics, and AI reshape the educational landscape by delving into specific applications, such as interactive learning environments and intelligent tutoring systems. Additionally, the discussion addressed the challenges and ethical considerations associated with these technological advancements, emphasizing the importance of a balanced approach that harnesses the benefits while addressing potential concerns. This paper is underpinned by the Theory of Situated Learning. A sample of five secondary schools in the OR Tambo Coastal District was selected for this study, with a focus on the experiences, behaviours, and social interactions of 15 teachers. Based on the study’s interpretive paradigm, it was discovered that certain teachers were not aware of the importance of increasing their digital professional knowledge as we move toward the Fourth
Industrial Revolution (4IR). In addition, infusing coding and robotics in educational practices required a shift to digital learning. The study recommends
encouraging teachers to acquire new skills to avoid stagnation. Although not every teacher found updating their skills to be a motivating factor for continuing professional development, the study underscores the significance of continuous learning for personal growth and improvement.

Keywords: Artificial intelligence, Coding, Robotics, Professional development, Technology, Landscape
Artist-led section: Sentences of string
Authors: Marten Helen , Lanigan-Schmidt Thomas , Heinemann Caspar , Moulène Jean-Luc , Ourahmane Lydia
Published: September 2024

This article was published open access under a CC BY-NC-ND Licence.
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/
Kinematics and Metallicity of the Dwarf Spheroidal Galaxy Andromeda XVIII
Authors: Kvasova Kateryna A. , Kirby Evan N. , Beaton Rachael L.
Published: September 2024

Andromeda XVIII is an isolated dwarf galaxy 579 kpc away from the nearest large galaxy, M31. It is a candidate “backsplash galaxy” that might have been affected by a close passage to M31. We present new Keck/DEIMOS spectroscopy of Andromeda XVIII to assess the likelihood that it is a backsplash galaxy. We estimated the velocities, metallicities ([Fe/H]), and α-enhancements ([α/Fe]) for 56 probable members. Based on the abundances of 38 stars with low errors (δ[Fe/H] < 0.3), parameters for the simplest chemical evolution models were estimated using the maximum likelihood coupled with a Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) method. The metallicity distribution is inconsistent with these models, due to a sharp metal-rich cutoff. We estimated Andromeda XVIII’s mean heliocentric velocity, rotation velocity, position angle of the rotation axis, and velocity dispersion using the maximum likelihood coupled with an MCMC. There is no evidence for bulk rotation, though subpopulations might be rotating. The mean heliocentric velocity is −337.2 km s−1, such that the line-of-sight velocity relative to M31 is lower than the escape velocity from M31. Together, the metallicity distribution and the mean velocity are consistent with a sudden interruption of star formation. For possible causes of this quenching, we considered gas loss due to ram pressure stripping during a close passage by M31 or due to a past major merger. However, we cannot rule out internal feedback (i.e., a terminal wind).
Multispecies Energetic Particle Acceleration Associated with CIR and ICME-driven Shocks
Authors: Silwal Ashok , Zhao Lingling , Zank Gary P. , Wang Bingbing , Pitña Alexander , Gautam Sujan Prasad , Park Byeongseon , Nakanotani Masaru , Zhu Xingyu
Published: September 2024

A multispecies energetic particle intensity enhancement event at 1 au is analyzed. We identify this event as a corotating interaction region (CIR) structure that includes a stream interface (SI), a forward-reverse shock pair, and an embedded heliospheric current sheet (HCS). The distinct feature of this CIR event is that (1) the high-energy (>1 MeV) ions show significant flux enhancement at the reverse wave (RW)/shock of the CIR structure, following their passage through the SI and HCS. The flux amplification appears to depend on the energy per nucleon. (2) Electrons in the energy range of 40.5–520 keV are accelerated immediately after passing through the SI and HCS regions, and the flux quickly reaches a peak for low-energy electrons. At the RW, only high-energy electrons (∼520 keV) show significant local flux enhancement. The CIR structure is followed by a fast-forward perpendicular shock driven by a coronal mass ejection (CME), and we observed a significant flux enhancement of low-energy protons and high-energy electrons. Specifically, the 210–330 keV proton and 180–520 keV electron fluxes are enhanced by approximately 2 orders of magnitude. This suggests that the later ICME-driven shock may accelerate particles out of the suprathermal pool. In this paper, we further present that for CIR-accelerated particles, the increase in turbulence power at SI and RWs may be an important factor for the observed flux enhancement in different species. The presence of ion-scale waves near the RW, as indicated by the spectral bump near the proton gyrofrequency, suggests that the resonant wave–particle interaction may act as an efficient energy transferrer between energetic protons and ion-scale waves.
Stochastic Gravitational Wave Background from Cosmological Neutrino-dominated Accretion Flows
Authors: Wei Yun-Feng , Liu Tong
Published: September 2024

We investigate the stochastic gravitational wave background (SGWB) from neutrino-dominated accretion flows (NDAFs) based on the results of our fallback core-collapse supernova (CCSN) simulations. We find that the predicted SGWB is mainly determined by the typical CCSN initial explosion energy and progenitor metallicity. For the optimistic cases in which the typical initial explosion energy is low, the SGWB from NDAFs without disk outflows might be detected by next-generation space-based interferometers such as DECi-hertz Interferometer Gravitational wave Observatory and Big Bang Observer. In the low-frequency regime ∼10−3–10−1 Hz, this background is comparable to that expected from standard inflationary models. Therefore, the SGWB from NDAFs may become a foreground for research of the SGWB generated in the inflationary epoch. Combining the diffuse NDAF neutrino background and SGWB from NDAFs, one may constrain the properties of the CCSNe and NDAFs.
Effectiveness of Metaverse-Based Collaborative Learning in Nursing Education: A Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Yoo Hye Jin , Ryu Hyeongju , Lee Hyeongsuk
Published: September 2024

Background:

Collaborative learning is an educational method widely used in nursing education that involves learners solving problems through teamwork. This study investigated the effects of using a metaverse virtual space for collaborative learning among nursing students.

Method:

A nonequivalent control group posttest design was used, and focus group interviews were conducted. This mixed-methods study included second-year nursing students (
n
= 43) divided into two groups. The intervention group used metaverse methods for the group projects and the control group used traditional methods.

Results:

Satisfaction with collaborative learning and peer evaluation of team projects were significantly higher in the intervention group compared with the control group. Participants' learning experiences were categorized into “unwelcome changes in the learning environment,” “discovering the potential of a learning environment that encourages participation,” and “tips for building a metaverse learning environment.”

Conclusion:

Metaverse collaborative learning is a student-centered educational approach that fosters active interaction and addresses the shortcomings of traditional approaches.

[
J Nurs Educ
. 2024;63(9):585–593.]
Barrier option pricing with floating interest rate based on uncertain exponential Ornstein–Uhlenbeck model
Authors: Zhou Shaoling , Chai Huixin , Wang Xiaosheng
Published: September 2024

A barrier option is a kind of path-dependent option whose return depends on whether the price of the underlying asset reaches a certain barrier level. This paper mainly analyzes European barrier option pricing formulas for the uncertain exponential Ornstein–Uhlenbeck model with a floating interest rate. The corresponding numerical algorithms for the knock-in and knock-out option prices are designed. Several numerical examples are given to study the relationship between barrier option prices and parameters. Finally, a real-data example is presented to illustrate the option pricing formulas.
New wave behaviors and stability analysis for magnetohydrodynamic flows
Authors: Yang Shengfang , Dong Huanhe , Liu Mingshuo
Published: September 2024

The Lie symmetry analysis and generalized Riccati equation expansion methods were performed on the inviscid and viscous incompressible magnetohydrodynamic equations. Using the Lie symmetry analysis method, symmetries and similarity reductions of (2 + 1)- and (3 + 1)-dimensional magnetohydrodynamic equations were derived. Different forms of trigonometric function solutions and rational solutions were obtained, which yielded periodic solutions, single soliton solutions, and lump solutions. Furthermore, using the generalized Riccati equation expansion method, we obtained abundant new solutions of magnetohydrodynamic equations, including kink, kink-like, breather, and interaction solutions. Moreover, the stability of magnetohydrodynamic equations was investigated from both qualitative and quantitative perspectives. The exact solutions and stability analysis could provide accurate mathematical descriptions and theoretical basis for numerical analysis and regulation of magnetohydrodynamic systems.
Pancreatitis in children: Experience in a tertiary care medical college hospital
Authors: Rashmi N. , Nikitha P. , Ravi M. D. , Jagadish Kumar K.
Published: September 2024

Background: Acute, acute recurrent and chronic pancreatitis cause significant health problems in the paediatric population. In view of the small number of patients, it is difficult to evaluate outcomes, genetic causes, treatments, prognostic indicators, severity, and epidemiologic factors in childhood in a prospective way.  Objectives: To determine the characteristics of patients with pancreatitis (acute, chronic and recurrent) presenting to us. Method: This was a retrospective descriptive study of consecutive paediatric patients admitted between January 2017 and December 2020 (4 years) in our paediatric department with a diagnosis of pancreatitis. Patient characteristics, laboratory and imaging results, identified aetiology of pancreatitis, and recurrence rates were recorded and evaluated.Results: There were 34 visits, of which 28 were for acute pancreatitis (including 3 with acute on chronic pancreatitis), and 6 for an episode of recurrent pancreatitis. The median age for all visits was 9 years (range 2-16). Of the acute cases, 14 had uncertain or undetermined aetiologies, 3 had systemic diseases, 2 were associated with medications, most common being valproic acid, 3 were cholelithiasis-related, 5 were due to other infections and one was due to trauma; one child with 3 recurrent episodes was suspected to have a genetic basis and 1 child was diagnosed to have Rapunzel syndrome (trichobezoar). There were five patients with chronic pancreatitis, of which 3 had acute on chronic pancreatitis.Conclusions: Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever and jaundice were the common clinical presentations of acute pancreatitis in children. The common aetiological factors identified were infections (18%), systemic illness (11%), drug induced (7%) and obstructive/ cholelithiasis (7%); in 46% the aetiology was unknown.
Image guided naso-jejunal tube placement in paediatric liver transplant patients in low resource settings: Feasibility, technique, and outcome
Authors: Appuhamy W. N. D. P. C. , Fernando M. , Tillakaratne S. B. , Gunathilake M. B. , Ganewatte E. , Gishanthan S. , Jayakody R. D. C. G. , Siriwardhana R. C.
Published: September 2024

No abstract available
Distributional Incidence of Indirect Taxation on Consumer Groups: Sri Lankan Perspectives
Authors: Kuruppuarachchi Y. D. R. , Kumara U. A. , Ajward A. R.
Published: September 2024

This study set out to find out how households allocated the indirect tax burden in various ways and statistically tests the difference in indirect tax burden among different aspects. Indirect tax revenue is vital to Sri Lanka's economy. We have identified a significant gap in this area in terms of empirical, theoretical, methodological, and practical. A consumer survey was performed, and data were collected using a structured questionnaire using the Stratified Convenient Sampling Method. One hundred fifteen commodity baskets were selected based on the Colombo Consumer Price Index under the broad categories of food and non-food and eleven subcategories of commodity groups. Colombo district was the sample district with the rationale of having the highest household expenditure district as per the Household Income and Expenditure Survey in 2019 conducted by the Department of Census and Statistics. Four hundred eighty-two respondents were collected, representing low-income, middle-income, and high-income households. Descriptive and quantitative approaches were used for the analysis. The findings of the study emphasized that the indirect tax burden rate of low-income households was significantly greater than the indirect tax burden rate of high-income households. The regressive effect was reflected in the findings, indicating that poor households are bearing a higher indirect tax burden rate in terms of average income and average expenditure. The derived Lorenz Curves and the calculated Gini Coefficients also emphasized the regressive effect of the indirect tax, presenting an upward-sloping Lorenz Curve and negative Gini Coefficient values. The statistical test also confirmed there is a statistically significant difference in the indirect tax burden on different income deciles, income groups, and expenditure deciles.
Hysteroscopic Retrieval of Intrauterine Retained Fetal Bones Causing Infertility in a Tertiary Teaching Hospital: A Case Series
Authors: Adewole Adebayo A. , Owa Olorunfemi O. , Musa Abdulkarim O. , Mohammed Umoru F. , Olayinka Amode , Nzurumike Charles N. , Alabi Olatunde O. , Ododo Benard I. , Fadahunsi Olufunke O. , Fadahunsi Oluwaseyi O. , Awelimobor Daniel I.
Published: September 2024

Background:

Retained fetal bone is a rare complication of unsafe abortion, causing infertility by functioning similarly to an intrauterine device. Clinical and radiological evaluation may be inconclusive. Hysteroscopic evaluation is the gold-standard diagnostic and therapeutic procedure associated with fertility restoration.

Materials and Methods:

Out of 300 hysteroscopies performed from September 22, 2015, to September 21, 2022, six cases of retained fetal bones were identified.

Results:

The incidence was 2.0%. The age range was 26 to 44 years. Five out of six were nulliparous, and all women had a previous history of unsafe abortion. The gestational age at the previous abortion ranged from 12 to 24 weeks. The fetal bones were completely removed in all cases. Two out of six cases (33.3%) had favourable outcomes with spontaneous conception and live births.

Conclusion:

Retained fetal bone is a rare cause of infertility associated with diagnostic challenges, especially in low-resource settings. However, the removal of the fetal bone with hysteroscopy can restore fertility.
Isolated Lateral Pelvic Lymph Node Recurrence after Polypectomy for Malignant Rectal Polyp: A Case Report
Authors: Chu Chun-Ho , Liu Yi-Hsin
Published: September 2024

Due to fecal occult blood screening, more patients undergo endoscopic polypectomy for T1 rectal cancer. Active surveillance is more favorable for patients with a low risk of lymph node metastasis. In general, lymph node metastases occur in the mesorectum or alongside the inferior mesenteric artery. The incidence of lateral pelvic lymph node (LPLN) metastasis in patients with T1 rectal cancer is very low. We experienced a case of LPLN recurrence 42 months after polypectomy for T1 lower rectal cancer. There are no guidelines for treating patients with isolated LPLN metastatic recurrence. Lateral lymph node dissection can be performed with curative intent. Adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy are reasonable.