bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Figure S4 from Sigma1 Regulates Lipid Droplet–mediated Redox Homeostasis Required for Prostate Cancer Proliferation
Authors: Oyer Halley M. , Steck Alexandra R. , Longen Charles G. , Venkat Sanjana , Bayrak Konuralp , Munger Eleanor B. , Fu Dan , Castagnino Paola A. , Sanders Christina M. , Tancler Nathalia A. , Mai My T. , Myers Justin P. , Schiewer Matthew J. , Chen Nan , Mostaghel Elahe A. , Kim Felix J.
Published: October 2023

VCaP and C4-2 ROS LD data
Figure S3 from Sigma1 Regulates Lipid Droplet–Mediated Redox Homeostasis Required for Prostate Cancer Proliferation
Authors: Oyer Halley M. , Steck Alexandra R. , Longen Charles G. , Venkat Sanjana , Bayrak Konuralp , Munger Eleanor B. , Fu Dan , Castagnino Paola A. , Sanders Christina M. , Tancler Nathalia A. , Mai My T. , Myers Justin P. , Schiewer Matthew J. , Chen Nan , Mostaghel Elahe A. , Kim Felix J.
Published: October 2023

VCaP data
FIGURE 7 from Sigma1 Regulates Lipid Droplet–mediated Redox Homeostasis Required for Prostate Cancer Proliferation
Authors: Oyer Halley M. , Steck Alexandra R. , Longen Charles G. , Venkat Sanjana , Bayrak Konuralp , Munger Eleanor B. , Fu Dan , Castagnino Paola A. , Sanders Christina M. , Tancler Nathalia A. , Mai My T. , Myers Justin P. , Schiewer Matthew J. , Chen Nan , Mostaghel Elahe A. , Kim Felix J.
Published: October 2023

GSEA and correlation analysis of Sigma1/SIGMAR1 in prostate tumors. GSEA using Adipogenesis and ROS Pathway Hallmark gene sets on localized prostate tumors from TCGA (A; 60) and metastatic prostate tumors from SU2C/PCF Dream Team (B; 61). C, Heat map of normalized enrichment scores from primary, metastatic, or benign prostate tissue utilizing TCGA, MSKCC, SU2C/PCF Dream Team, and FHCRC datasets (60, 61, 63). D, Single gene correlation analysis between SIGMAR1 and PNPLA2, BCSL2, and PLIN5 using Z-scores from published primary prostate tumor datasets (60, 63, 64).
FIGURE 5 from Sigma1 Regulates Lipid Droplet–Mediated Redox Homeostasis Required for Prostate Cancer Proliferation
Authors: Oyer Halley M. , Steck Alexandra R. , Longen Charles G. , Venkat Sanjana , Bayrak Konuralp , Munger Eleanor B. , Fu Dan , Castagnino Paola A. , Sanders Christina M. , Tancler Nathalia A. , Mai My T. , Myers Justin P. , Schiewer Matthew J. , Chen Nan , Mostaghel Elahe A. , Kim Felix J.
Published: October 2023

Pharmacologic Sigma1 inhibitor eliminates DHT-induced AR-mediated LDs by lipophagy. Treatment with a small-molecule Sigma1 inhibitor eliminates AR and ARV7 mediated LDs. Confocal image of HCS LipidTox stained LDs (red) in LNCaP cells (A), in C4-2 cells (B), and in VCaP cells (C) treated with drug vehicle (DMSO), DHT (1 nmol/L, 3 days), and treatment with DHT (1 nmol/L, 3 days) combined with Sigma1 inhibitor (IPAG, 10 µmol/L, added for the final 16 hours of the 3-day DHT treatment), DAPI stained nuclei (blue). Quantification of LDs expressed as the mean number of LDs per cell ± SEM. *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.01; ***, P < 0.001; ****, P < 0.0001. D, Confocal image of LDs (red) in AR-transfected PC3 cells [PC3 (+AR)] treated with DHT (1 nmol/L, 3 days) and with Sigma1 inhibitor (IPAG, 10 µmol/L, added for the final 16 hours). E, ARV7-transfected PC3 cells [PC3 (+ARV7)] treated with drug vehicle (DMSO) and Sigma1 inhibitor (IPAG, 10 µmol/L, 16 hours). Quantification of LDs immediately to the right of micrographs. Data expressed as the mean number of particles per cell ± SEM. ****, P < 0.0001. F, Confocal micrographs showing colocalization of GFP-LC3 (LC3, green) and HCS LipidTox labeled LDs (red) in LNCaP (GFP-LC3) cells that were cultured in CSS medium for 3 days and treated with 1 nmol/L DHT for 3 days alone or in combination with 10 µmol/L IPAG and 10 nmol/L bafilomycin A1 (Baf A1) for the final 8 hours prior to fixing the cells. G, Inset from column 4, white boxed area, Merge from E showing magnified view of autophagosome (LC3, green) colocalization with LD (red). Overlapping, colocalization events indicated by white arrows. H, Box and whisker plot of Mander overlap coefficients. Data are presented as mean ± SEM from three independent experiments. *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.01; ***, P < 0.001; ****, P < 0.0001; ns, no significance. I, Immunoblots of whole-cell protein extracts from parallel cell culture and experimental conditions used in J. J,In vitro cell proliferation assay of LNCaP cells precultured in CSS medium for 3 days and then treated for 3 days with 1 nmol/L DHT and IPAG (10 µmol/L) was added for the final 16 hours. Live cells were counted by Trypan blue exclusion assay. Error bars represent SEM. **, P < 0.01. K, LNCaP and C4-2 colony formation is suppressed by IPAG in a dose-responsive manner. Data presented as relative number of colonies compared with no drug treatment (as % control).
FIGURE 5 from Sigma1 Regulates Lipid Droplet–mediated Redox Homeostasis Required for Prostate Cancer Proliferation
Authors: Oyer Halley M. , Steck Alexandra R. , Longen Charles G. , Venkat Sanjana , Bayrak Konuralp , Munger Eleanor B. , Fu Dan , Castagnino Paola A. , Sanders Christina M. , Tancler Nathalia A. , Mai My T. , Myers Justin P. , Schiewer Matthew J. , Chen Nan , Mostaghel Elahe A. , Kim Felix J.
Published: October 2023

Pharmacologic Sigma1 inhibitor eliminates DHT-induced AR-mediated LDs by lipophagy. Treatment with a small-molecule Sigma1 inhibitor eliminates AR and ARV7 mediated LDs. Confocal image of HCS LipidTox stained LDs (red) in LNCaP cells (A), in C4-2 cells (B), and in VCaP cells (C) treated with drug vehicle (DMSO), DHT (1 nmol/L, 3 days), and treatment with DHT (1 nmol/L, 3 days) combined with Sigma1 inhibitor (IPAG, 10 µmol/L, added for the final 16 hours of the 3-day DHT treatment), DAPI stained nuclei (blue). Quantification of LDs expressed as the mean number of LDs per cell ± SEM. *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.01; ***, P < 0.001; ****, P < 0.0001. D, Confocal image of LDs (red) in AR-transfected PC3 cells [PC3 (+AR)] treated with DHT (1 nmol/L, 3 days) and with Sigma1 inhibitor (IPAG, 10 µmol/L, added for the final 16 hours). E, ARV7-transfected PC3 cells [PC3 (+ARV7)] treated with drug vehicle (DMSO) and Sigma1 inhibitor (IPAG, 10 µmol/L, 16 hours). Quantification of LDs immediately to the right of micrographs. Data expressed as the mean number of particles per cell ± SEM. ****, P < 0.0001. F, Confocal micrographs showing colocalization of GFP-LC3 (LC3, green) and HCS LipidTox labeled LDs (red) in LNCaP (GFP-LC3) cells that were cultured in CSS medium for 3 days and treated with 1 nmol/L DHT for 3 days alone or in combination with 10 µmol/L IPAG and 10 nmol/L bafilomycin A1 (Baf A1) for the final 8 hours prior to fixing the cells. G, Inset from column 4, white boxed area, Merge from E showing magnified view of autophagosome (LC3, green) colocalization with LD (red). Overlapping, colocalization events indicated by white arrows. H, Box and whisker plot of Mander overlap coefficients. Data are presented as mean ± SEM from three independent experiments. *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.01; ***, P < 0.001; ****, P < 0.0001; ns, no significance. I, Immunoblots of whole-cell protein extracts from parallel cell culture and experimental conditions used in J. J,In vitro cell proliferation assay of LNCaP cells precultured in CSS medium for 3 days and then treated for 3 days with 1 nmol/L DHT and IPAG (10 µmol/L) was added for the final 16 hours. Live cells were counted by Trypan blue exclusion assay. Error bars represent SEM. **, P < 0.01. K, LNCaP and C4-2 colony formation is suppressed by IPAG in a dose-responsive manner. Data presented as relative number of colonies compared with no drug treatment (as % control).
FIGURE 3 from Sigma1 Regulates Lipid Droplet–mediated Redox Homeostasis Required for Prostate Cancer Proliferation
Authors: Oyer Halley M. , Steck Alexandra R. , Longen Charles G. , Venkat Sanjana , Bayrak Konuralp , Munger Eleanor B. , Fu Dan , Castagnino Paola A. , Sanders Christina M. , Tancler Nathalia A. , Mai My T. , Myers Justin P. , Schiewer Matthew J. , Chen Nan , Mostaghel Elahe A. , Kim Felix J.
Published: October 2023

Sigma1 KD suppresses DHT induced prostate cancer cell proliferation and tumor growth despite (or due to) increased autophagy. A,In vitro cell proliferation assay of Sigma1 shRNA-transduced LNCaP and C4-2 cells precultured in CSS medium for 3 days and then treated for 3 and 6 days with 1 nmol/L DHT. Live cells were counted by Trypan blue exclusion assay at the start of the time course (day 0), and 3 and 6 days of DHT treatment. Data are represented as fold induction over cells treated with control shRNA at day 0. Datapoints represent mean fold increase in cell number from at least three independent determinations, and error bars represent SEM. Two distinct Sigma1 shRNA clones, #4 and #5, were tested and produced similar results. B, Immunoblots of whole-cell protein extracts from parallel C4-2 cell culture performed in parallel and using same experimental treatment conditions as in A. Data shown for Sigma1 shRNA clone #5 KD C4-2 cell cultures. C, Immunoblot of Sigma1 shRNA clone #4 and #5 transduced C4-2 cells immediately prior to subcutaneous flank implantation into SCID mice. D, C4-2 cells infected with Sigma1 shRNA (#4, #5) and control shRNA (#1) were injected into the right and left flanks of SCID mice. Tumor volume was measured by caliper 12 weeks after implantation, prior to sacrificing the mice. Data are represented as mean volume of six tumors for each condition, and error bars represent SEM. E, Tumor weight was measured at 12 weeks postinjection at the time of harvest. Data are represented as mean volume of six tumors for each condition, and error bars represent SEM. *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.01. F, Oil Red O staining of control (clone #1) and Sigma1 shRNA (clone #4 and #5) xenografted C4-2 tumors.
FIGURE 2 from Sigma1 Regulates Lipid Droplet–Mediated Redox Homeostasis Required for Prostate Cancer Proliferation
Authors: Oyer Halley M. , Steck Alexandra R. , Longen Charles G. , Venkat Sanjana , Bayrak Konuralp , Munger Eleanor B. , Fu Dan , Castagnino Paola A. , Sanders Christina M. , Tancler Nathalia A. , Mai My T. , Myers Justin P. , Schiewer Matthew J. , Chen Nan , Mostaghel Elahe A. , Kim Felix J.
Published: October 2023

Sigma1 KD triggers lipophagy. A, Confocal micrographs showing colocalization of GFP-LC3 (LC3, green) and HCS LipidTox labeled LDs (red) in Sigma1 shRNA-transduced LNCaP (GFP-LC3) cells that were serum-starved for 3 days and treated with 1 nmol/L DHT for 3 days alone or combined with 10 nmol/L bafilomycin A1 (BafA1) for the final 8 hours prior to fixing the cells. B, Inset from column 8, Merge from A showing magnified view of autophagosome (LC3, green) colocalization with LD (red). Overlapping, colocalization events indicated by white arrows. C, Immunoblots of whole-cell protein extracts from parallel cell culture performed in parallel and using same experimental treatment conditions. GFP, GFP-LC3 I, and GFP-LC3 II were detected using an anti-GFP antibody. GFP-LC3 II band represents autophagosomes, similarly to canonical LC3B II immunoblot banding patterns. Independent GFP band indicates active autolysosomal degradation, autophagic flux.
Data from Sigma1 Regulates Lipid Droplet–Mediated Redox Homeostasis Required for Prostate Cancer Proliferation
Authors: Oyer Halley M. , Steck Alexandra R. , Longen Charles G. , Venkat Sanjana , Bayrak Konuralp , Munger Eleanor B. , Fu Dan , Castagnino Paola A. , Sanders Christina M. , Tancler Nathalia A. , Mai My T. , Myers Justin P. , Schiewer Matthew J. , Chen Nan , Mostaghel Elahe A. , Kim Felix J.
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Lipid droplets (LD) are dynamic organelles that serve as hubs of cellular metabolic processes. Emerging evidence shows that LDs also play a critical role in maintaining redox homeostasis and can mitigate lipid oxidative stress. In multiple cancers, including prostate cancer, LD accumulation is associated with cancer aggressiveness, therapy resistance, and poor clinical outcome. Prostate cancer arises as an androgen receptor (AR)-driven disease. Among its myriad roles, AR mediates the biosynthesis of LDs, induces autophagy, and modulates cellular oxidative stress in a tightly regulated cycle that promotes cell proliferation. The factors regulating the interplay of these metabolic processes downstream of AR remain unclear. Here, we show that Sigma1/SIGMAR1, a unique ligand-operated scaffolding protein, regulates LD metabolism in prostate cancer cells. Sigma1 inhibition triggers lipophagy, an LD selective form of autophagy, to prevent accumulation of LDs which normally act to sequester toxic levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This disrupts the interplay between LDs, autophagy, buffering of oxidative stress and redox homeostasis, and results in the suppression of cell proliferation in vitro and tumor growth in vivo. Consistent with these experimental results, SIGMAR1 transcripts are strongly associated with lipid metabolism and ROS pathways in prostate tumors. Altogether, these data reveal a novel, pharmacologically responsive role for Sigma1 in regulating the redox homeostasis required by oncogenic metabolic programs that drive prostate cancer proliferation.
Significance:
To proliferate, cancer cells must maintain productive metabolic and oxidative stress (eustress) while mitigating destructive, uncontrolled oxidative stress (distress). LDs are metabolic hubs that enable adaptive responses to promote eustress. Targeting the unique Sigma1 protein can trigger distress by disrupting the LD-mediated homeostasis required for proliferation.
Dissociation and Temporality in Substance Abuse: A Clinical Phenomenological Overview
Authors: Ricci Valerio , Maina Giuseppe , Martinotti Giovanni
Published: October 2023

The term “dissociation” encompasses a wide array of symptoms and phenomena, all sharing the common characteristic of involving altered states of consciousness where an individual temporarily loses the sense of continuity of their own identity. In the context of addiction pathology, however, the dissociative paradigm remains a topic of ongoing debate. It fluctuates between the description of individual dissociative symptoms and the notion of post-traumatic dissociation as a structural process. This process involves fragmentation that extends beyond the confines of perception and experience within a singular moment, instead ensuring a persistent discontinuity of the self throughout one’s existence. Pathological addiction stresses the question of the donation of sense in this deep and dramatic experience; it situates individuals within a compressed and constricted realm of vital space, alongside a frozen perception of time. Within this context, every emotion, sensation, and comprehension becomes impaired. Consequently, we have embarked on a journey starting with a historical analysis: the aim was to construct an elucidative framework for the dissociative paradigm in the context of addiction. This involves an in-depth exploration of the fundamental constructs of trauma and temporality, examined through the lens of phenomenological perspective.
The Impact of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Supplementation on Singing Training in Vocal Performers: A Non-Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Perrine Brittany L. , Monzón Kimberly , Weber Lauren M. , Sturdivant Rodney X. , Funderburk LesLee K.
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Vocal performers often seek natural treatments to improve their vocal capability. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) supplementation may reduce inflammation and cause changes in body composition, such as loss of fat mass. The purpose of this study was to determine if omega-3 PUFA supplementation in combination with a singer’s training regimen enhances singing training and body composition. Methods: This was a non-randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Forty-three college-level students were recruited and volunteered to serve as study participants. 3.0 g of omega-3 PUFA per day or 3.0 g of placebo per day were provided over a 10-week intervention. Participants completed Singing Voice Handicap Index (SVHI), Reflux Symptom Index (RSI), Evaluation of Ability to Sing Easily (EASE), Voice Range Profile (VRP), food records, and body composition measures at baseline and study end. Results: Thirty-five participants completed the study. SVHI was significantly different between groups (p = 0.0152; ƞ2 = 0.153). A minor third was added to the bottom of the range in 50% of males in the supplement group (placebo = 0%). Body composition measures were not statistically significant, although those in the supplement group lost more fat mass than placebo, p = 0.101. Discussion/Conclusion: Omega-3 PUFA supplementation may be beneficial to improve how active singers feel about their voice and could potentially improve voice range in conjunction with voice lessons; however, more research is necessary to confirm the latter.
Pars Plana Vitrectomy with or without Internal Limiting Membrane Peel for Epiretinal Membrane: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mihalache Andrew , Huang Ryan S. , Ahmed Haleema , Patil Nikhil S. , Popovic Marko M. , Kertes Peter J. , Muni Rajeev H.
Published: October 2023

Background: The safety and effectiveness of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling remains poorly understood for the treatment of epiretinal membrane (ERM). Objectives: Our study aims to compare the safety and effectiveness of PPV with and without ILM peeling for ERM. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted on Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar from January 2000 to January 2023 for comparative studies reporting visual and anatomical outcomes for patients with ERM that received PPV with or without ILM peeling. Primary outcomes included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at last study observation and change in BCVA from baseline. Secondary outcomes included retinal thickness (RT) at last study observation, change in RT from baseline, risk of ERM recurrence, and adverse events. A random-effects meta-analysis was performed. Risk of bias of randomized controlled trials was assessed using the Risk of Bias 2 tool of observational studies using the Risk of Bias in Non-randomized Studies of Interventions-I tool. The certainty of evidence of outcomes was evaluated using Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation criteria. Results: Nineteen studies reporting on 1,291 eyes at baseline were included. PPV with and without ILM peel achieved a similar BCVA at last study observation (p = 0.68) and change in BCVA from baseline (p = 0.79). These findings remained consistent irrespective of whether simultaneous phacoemulsification was performed. PPV with ILM peel achieved a significantly lower incidence of ERM recurrence (risk ratio [RR] = 0.26, 95% CI = [0.13, 0.51], p < 0.0001) and additional surgery (RR = 0.17, 95% CI = [0.04, 0.74], p = 0.02) compared to PPV without ILM peel. Conclusion: PPV with and without ILM peel achieved a similar BCVA at last study observation in ERM patients. Patients treated with PPV and ILM peel also had a reduced risk of ERM recurrence and lower reoperation risk. These conclusions are associated with a moderate certainty of evidence and potential for bias from multiple non-randomized studies.
Impact of the 3rd Edition of the Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology on Grey Zone Categories
Authors: Guerreiro Sofia Cuco , Tastekin Ebru , Mourao Mariana , Loureiro Isabel , Eusebio Rosario , Marques Hugo Pinto , Oznur meltem , Caliskan Can Kosti , Schmitt Fernando C. , Bongiovanni Massimo , Canberk Sule
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Thyroid Bethesda Reporting System is a six-tiered system that aims to bring uniformity in reporting thyroid cytology and improve the communication with clinicians. The system has achieved its goal as a presurgical diagnostic method; however, it remains a screening method in the grey zone categories, namely atypia of undetermined significance (AUS) and follicular neoplasm (FN). The book recently released the 3rd edition, following the recent changes in thyroid pathology. One of the most important novelties is subgrouping AUS category and FN to be able to make a better risk stratification in these categories. Our group aims to retrospectively analyze a large dataset based on the new TBSRTC, with a focus on the grey zone categories. Methods: Only patients who underwent lobectomy or total thyroidectomy were included, allowing for direct comparison between cytological and histopathological results. Cytological evaluations, based on the TBSRTC 3rd edition, were methodically compared with their respective histopathological results, enabling a comprehensive analysis. Results: Of the 244 patients (female:male ratio = 8.8:1, mean age = 56), a total of 252 nodules were evaluated. A distinction was noted with 79 nodules (31%) diagnosed as AUS and 173 nodules (69%) as FN. Intriguingly, the risk of malignancy (ROM) for AUS-overall stood at 44.3%, with AUS-nuclear atypia at 50% and AUS-other at 43.2%. Although the AUS subdivisions did not demonstrate statistical significance, a significant disparity was observed in their distribution, with 15% as AUS-nuclear atypia compared to 85% as AUS-other. This disparity raises the question: Could AUS-other be considered the new waste-basket category in the TBSRTC 3rd edition? Using the TBSRTC 3rd edition as a base, we added a subclassification for FN nodules based on the presence or absence of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) nuclear features. Our findings showed that differentiating FN with oncocytic characteristics correlated well with histological outcomes and ROMs. Though retrospective in design with inherent bias potential, our data suggest a possible improvement in PTC case segregation in the FN category when differentiating between FN nodules with and without PTC nuclear features. Conclusion: Our retrospective study sheds light on the potential advantages of the TBSRTC 3rd edition, particularly in refining the AUS and FN categories for thyroid nodules. The clear disparity in AUS subcategories raises important questions about their classification and potential future refinements. Moreover, the differentiation of FN nodules based on PTC nuclear features holds a promising approach for better risk stratification.
Potential Contribution of Cell Adhesion Molecule 1 to the Binding of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein to Mouse Nasal Mucosa
Authors: Takeuchi Fuka , Sugano Aki , Yoneshige Azusa , Hagiyama Man , Inoue Takao , Wada Akihiro , Takaoka Yutaka , Ito Akihiko
Published: October 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) first infects the host nasal mucosa, where the viral spike protein binds to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) on the mucosal cells. This study aimed at searching host cell surface molecules that could contribute to the infection in two views; abundance on host cells and affinity to the spike protein. Since the nasal mucosa is lined by respiratory and olfactory epithelia, and both express an immunoglobulin superfamily member cell adhesion molecule 1 (CADM1), whether CADM1 would participate in the spike protein binding was examined. Immunohistochemistry on the mouse nasal cavity detected CADM1 strongly in the olfactory epithelium at cell-cell contacts and on the apical surface but just faintly in the respiratory epithelium. In contrast, ACE2 was detected in the respiratory, not olfactory, epithelium. When mice were administered intranasally with SARS-CoV-2 S1 spike protein and an anti-CADM1 ectodomain antibody separately, both were detected exclusively on the olfactory, not respiratory, epithelium. Then, the antibody and S1 spike protein were administered intranasally to mice in this order with an interval of 1 h. After 3 h, S1 spike protein was detected as a protein aggregate floating in the nasal cavity. Next, S1 spike protein labeled with fluorescein was added to the monolayer cultures of epithelial cells exogenously expressing ACE2 or CADM1. Quantitative detection of fluorescein bound to the cells revealed that S1 spike protein bound to CADM1 with affinity half as high as to ACE2. Consistently, docking simulation analyses revealed that S1 spike protein could bind to CADM1 three-quarters as strongly as to ACE2 and that the interface of ACE2 was similar in both binding modes. Collectively, intranasal S1 spike protein appeared to prefer to accumulate on the olfactory epithelium, and CADM1 was suggested to contribute to this preference of S1 spike protein based on the molecular abundance and affinity.
Difficulties of field training among university students during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Zaid Haitham Abu , Al-Momani Mohammad Omar , Danaa Hanaa Mustafa , Aljedayah Karimah Suleiman , Obeidat Lubna Mahmoud , AlFalah Marleen Mansour
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to uncover the difficulties that special education students face in field training at Al-Balqa Applied University during the corona pandemic. The study investigated whether these difficulties were affected by gender (males-females). To achieve the objectives of the study, the researcher designed survey consisting of 36 items. The sample of the study consisted of 30 male and female students enrolled in the field training course in the first semester of the academic year 2020/22021. The results showed that field training difficulties associated with the subscale of the students and supervisors were high. However, the difficulties related to the training center were medium. The study also showed no statistically significant differences in the difficulties between students due to the gender variable.
Mathematics education in the digital age: How to foster higher-order thinking skills?
Authors: Yanuarto Wanda Nugroho , Setyaningsih Eka , Jazuli Akhmad , Suanto Elfis
Published: October 2023

How technology and industrial change affect how well students do in school for the 4.0 level to be met, students must be able to use higher-order thinking and technological pedagogical content knowledge (TPACK). Students have difficulty using advanced technological tools when they need to think critically and artistically. So, students will only be able to learn higher-order thinking skills if they have TPACK. It is a common reason why people need to learn mathematics better in the current world. The purpose of this research was to help complete a structural model of TPACK and higher-order thinking skills for distance math learners. In a cross-sectional quantitative study, the data were looked at with structural equation modelling (SEM). For this study, 279 people from Universitas Muhammadiyah Purwokerto and Universitas Riau were chosen to participate. The study’s structure model shows a powerful link between higher-order thinking skills and TPACK. As a result, secondary school mathematics educators can benefit from this study’s findings by adopting fresh perspectives on TPACK and higher-order thinking.
Transformation of the learning environment for children with special needs
Authors: Espinoza Verónica Margarita Trillo , Shaimardanova Milyausha , Shakhmalova Irina , Garina Evgeniya
Published: October 2023

This study is devoted to the consideration of the issue related to the adaptation and adoption of such children in the Russian Federation. The study is based on the questionnaire method. It was attended by 120 parents of children with special needs. The results showed that the majority of respondents are familiar with inclusive education, its principles and goals; 59% of respondents believe that the psychological environment in their school is not good enough for the adaptation of children with special needs. According to 64% of parents, there are also problems with the infrastructure of schools. The minority of parents face the rejection of special needs children by teachers, but the majority face the rejection by their peers. In general, despite all problems and challenges, parents positively assess the idea of their special needs child learning and attending the same classroom side by side with healthy children. According to them, this has a positive effect on the intellectual and mental development of the child. To improve the process, the parents of such children were offered the following recommendations: constant research on the issue, cooperation with other parents of special needs children, attention to children and cooperation with specialists (psychologists and defectologists).
A re-engagement model to overcome the psychological distress of students
Authors: Ramaswamy Meena , Viswanathan Rajeesh , Kaniyarkuzhi Byju , Neeliyadath Sarathlal
Published: October 2023

COVID-19 lockdowns and lack of social interaction increased academic disengagement among students in India. This study aims to identify the student engagement pitfalls and the prevalent psychological distress in higher education institutions (HEIs) in India prior to the pandemic and during the same. An exploratory research design is adopted by executing a purposive sampling technique. Researchers collected data from undergraduate students of the top five universities, verified 600 consistent responses, and tested the hypothesis using relevant research tools. Results display that psychological distress (PD) is inversely correlated to student engagement (SE) and negatively impacts it. Researchers introduced a novel re-engagement model called “CAIS”, which is the combination of four variables, creativity, physical activity (PA), internship, service learning (SL), and tested their relationship with PD and SE. Each variable under CAIS shows an inverse correlation with PD and positively impacts SE. This study suggests to include “CAIS” in the curriculum to improve the productivity of students and reduce their stress levels. This investigation is the first of its kind to explore the connection between CAIS, SE, and PD in Indian HEIs. The results contribute to the stakeholders in education to re-engage the students in an innovative pattern during post-pandemic times.
Voices of English education department teachers on traces of neoliberal ideology in the ‘Kampus Merdeka’ concept
Authors: Hatmanto Endro Dwi , Pratolo Bambang Widi , Purwanti Eko
Published: October 2023

Neoliberal ideology’s influence on higher education has been a concern for researchers on a global scale. Indonesian researchers have also examined the practice of neoliberalism in higher education. However, they only focused on the managerial dimension and there is a dearth of literature on the influence of neoliberalism ideology on educational policy. This study intends to close a gap in earlier studies by investigating the ideological remnants of Neoliberalism in the notion of ‘Kampus Merdeka’ or Emancipated Learning as perceived by 12 lecturers at English Education Department in Yogyakarta. This study employed a qualitative approach through the use of semi-structured interviews. The study found that university and departmental missions were aligned with industry demands; the curriculum was driven by industry; the teaching and learning process was determined by the market; the Tridharma of Higher Education was extended to industry; little emphasis was placed on moral and religious values; curriculum “vocationalization” was emphasized; collaboration with industry was focused; academic commodification and consumerism increased; and academic commodification and consumerism accelerated. The findings added to a new existing theme, that is increased collaboration with industry. Moral and religious values must be incorporated into the curriculum, as they are absent in ‘Kampus Merdeka’ paradigm.
Minority languages in Europe: Problems of Albanian as the second official language in North Macedonia
Authors: Zaçellari Manjola , Shala Flamur
Published: October 2023

This study aimed at analyzing the status of Albanian as the second official language in North Macedonia, by firstly giving an overview of the language policy in the European Union (EU), its approach to multilingualism, stressing out the idea that a similar multilingual policy can be used as a model by other European countries. The study analysed the current situation regarding the use and application of the Albanian language in North Macedonia, by analyzing the law on languages and some issues regarding Albanian as the language of instruction. Qualitative methods were used for the aims of this study. The data was collected through document analysis for analyzing how the EU deals with multilingual issues; identify arising issues due to the use of Albanian as the second official language in North Macedonia and through semi-structured interviews with Albanian teachers from various schools to investigate their perceptions of the status of Albanian and about problems they face in their work routine. Teachers were posed five interview questions. After evaluating the data, some important issues were identified such as the need for further improvement to the law on languages, the need for opening more Albanian schools, and the need for continuous training for teachers.
Transformational leadership and organizational commitment: Moderator role of pesantren employee job satisfaction
Authors: Ibrahim Busthomi , Zumrah Abdul Rahim , Supardi Supardi , Juhji Juhji
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to determine the level of transformational leadership style, employee job satisfaction, and organizational commitment in pesantren (Islamic boarding school) and assess the role of job satisfaction as a mediator in the relationship between transformational leadership style and organizational commitment. The study used the quantitative method by surveying 556 educators from each Darunnajah Islamic boarding school branch in Indonesia. Information examination utilized numerous relapse investigation to test the inquire about theory and progressive relapse examination to test the intervention speculation. The study found that transformational authority, representative work fulfillment, and organizational commitment at Islamic boarding schools were more than direct. In expansion, representative work fulfillment can intercede between transformational authority and organizational commitment.
Enablers and barriers to the construction of motives for learning at the university: The student’s perspective
Authors: Miranda-Ossandón Jorge , Precht Andrea , Lobos Constanza , Valenzuela Jorge , Muñoz Carla , Del Valle Milenko
Published: October 2023

The massification of higher education and the migration to online formats imply changes that affect the ways that people learn and their motivation for learning. In this sense, the motivational orientation of the student can make a difference in learning. This article aims to describe the enablers and barriers to students’ motivation for learning from the perspective of Chilean University students in the areas of health and education. The study was conducted through virtual group interviews. The analysis was carried out on the participants’ accounts from a constructivist approach to grounded theory. The results showed a valuation of the practical and altruistic motives as a structuring motivational axis. In line with the self-determination theory, the existence of a protected space in the classroom appears as an essential motivational enabler of learning, and virtuality is a critical motivational barrier.
Do types of gadgets used for online learning have a bearing on student academic performance?
Authors: Shanthi Alice , Heng Lim Teck , Sharminnie Evelyn , Purwarno Purwarno , Suhendi Andang , Xavierine Jane
Published: October 2023

This paper explores the impacts of using smartphones vs laptops on students' academic achievement in their English courses and their satisfaction in learning English via open distance learning (ODL). Experiments were conducted in authentic teaching sessions with a total of 304 undergraduates from a local university. The methodology applied is a quasi-experimental design with post-test-only. Results indicate that the relationship between the grade obtained and level of satisfaction with gadget is low and not significant at 5% level of significance. However, there is a significant relationship between the level of satisfaction towards gadgets used for learning English courses and learning English via ODL classes since the p-value is significant with a correlation value of 0.455. Finally, there is a low correlation between the grade obtained and level of satisfaction in learning English during ODL classes. Future research should be conducted to further check on the effects of using mobile phones against other mobile devices on other subjects learnt in the universities.
Emotional and spiritual quotient for sustainable education’s service quality
Authors: Saad Mazni , Shah Norliana Ahmad , Supian Kamisah , Rani Anita Abdul , Abidin Imaduddin
Published: October 2023

A sustainable ecosystem of universities needs to show outstanding performance in the areas of employability, institutional social responsibility, and creative and performing arts. Thus, this study determined the influential role of emotional quotient (EQ) and spiritual quotient (SQ) on the lecturers’ excellence service quality (ESQ), which eventually led to effective classroom teaching. The data of 127 respondents were analyzed using the structural equation model with partial least square. The results confirmed that both types of quotients positively influence the lecturers’ teaching progression at the university. EQ and SQ have the encouraging power to motivate the academicians for the best service to the university through a quality learning experience. It can be concise that institutions that practice EQ and SQ values can perform better and blend a harmonious working spirit and tandem with the university’s growth. Support for sustainable development goal (SDG-4) via EQ and SQ is now required in humanizing education to ensure academicians’ competency and well-being, particularly in the aftermath of the Corona Virus Disease-19 disruption. Policymakers in the university should now capitalize the intelligence through professional initiatives. This study could have been better with a bigger sample size, but the investigation had limited access due to the university's policy on privacy.
Online discussion in improving argumentation skills during last decade: A review
Authors: Admoko Setyo , Nata Sari Eka Putri Dian , Hariyono Eko , Madlazim Madlazim
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to find research trend online discussion to improve argumentation skills in education especially physics education. The method used in this research is bibliometric analysis by using VOSviewer. The data used is the Scopus database in the last 10 years. The research findings found that there are 1,447 documents that meet the predetermined criteria. The number of online discussion research increases gradually over the research period 2012-2021. The two highest sources of documents came from journals and conference proceedings and a higher percentage of citations were carried out on scientific journal. There are five trend research clusters on online discussion (4 main clusters and 1 secondary). The first cluster focuses on online discussion methods, the second cluster focuses on online discussion model, the third cluster focuses on the application of online discussions, the fourth cluster focuses on media used in online discussions, the fifth secondary cluster focuses on the goals of online discussion. The “argumentation” keyword is not included in the top 10 keywords, this shows that online discussion research has just little linked to argumentation as an indicator of the quality of online discussion. This condition creates an opportunity for further research related to online discussion in improving argumentation skills.
Automating assessment and evaluation for a bachelor’s degree program
Authors: Chowdhury Mozaffar A. , Chisty Kazi Khaled Shams , Tushar Hasanuzzaman , Ahmed Kazi Md Fahim , Waliullah Shaikh Sabbir Ahmed
Published: October 2023

Outcome-based education (OBE) makes learning happen and measures automating assessment and evaluation system. The objective of the study is to assess student’s learning in International Finance course and report OBE and propose strategies for continual quality improvement (CQI). In this study, a widely accepted self-developed spreadsheet used to measure course learning outcomes (CLO) and program learning outcomes (PLO) of international finance in a bachelor’s degree program of fall 2021. The method of sampling technique is purposive and a sample of 27 students have been considered for the analysis. Using direct method on specific parameters (quiz, assignment, presentation, and exams), an overall CLO attainment has been measured and compared with a targeted key performance indicators (KPI) (70% is set). Findings reveal that the first three out of five CLO have met the standard KPI. However, a CQI has been proposed for further improvement of CLO. Also, future works proposed to instrument CQI processes, engage industry experts and external OBE experts from foreign universities. Program self-assessment is mandatory for quality assurance at university and also preparation for accreditation of the program needs self-assessment. Therefore, CLO is mandatory for assessment and evaluation urgently.
Students’ mathematics self-efficacy in learning social arithmetic topic
Authors: Siregar Rama Nida , Suryadi Didi , Prabawanto Sufyani , Mujib Abdul
Published: October 2023

The issue, the significance of student self-efficacy in the learning process, is what inspired this study. This study set out to identify and characterize students’ self-efficacy capacities for studying the social arithmetic topic in light of their unique traits. This research is descriptive research through questionnaire analysis using percentages. A self-efficacy questionnaire plus a questionnaire for students’ responses make up the tool used to assess self-efficacy abilities. In this study, the data were collected and evaluated using a Likert attitude scale to determine whether students’ self-efficacy in studying the social arithmetic topic had increased. The scale in this self-efficacy contains three components, namely students’ assessment of: i) the level of task difficulty (magnitude); ii) the variety of tasks (generality); and iii) the degree of stability in completing a task (strength) in social arithmetic topic. The conclusion obtained in this study related to self-efficacy in mathematics is that it can be seen as a whole in learning social arithmetic topic showing that there are 79.05% of students giving a positive response, meaning that almost all students assess themselves positively when learning social arithmetic topic.
Competence framework of information technology for students of Thai Nguyen University of Agriculture and Forestry
Authors: Toan Hua Thi , Hai Trinh Thanh , Kien Do Trung
Published: October 2023

Currently, with the positive impact of information technology (IT), the world’s agriculture is gradually shifting from the traditional agricultural model to the digital agricultural model, creating high productivity, increasing the product value and labor productivity. However, the agriculture with applied digital also requires laborers to be capable of applying IT in the agricultural sector. On the basis of theoretical research, output standards from bachelor training programs in the field of agriculture in the world and Vietnam, along with practical investigation results, the article focuses on two main contents: clarify the content of IT application capacity of a student in the field of agriculture and forestry; building a competence framework and assessment criteria for IT application competence for students in the field of agriculture and forestry. The results of the article are documents for Thai Nguyen University of Agriculture and Forestry as well as training institutions for bachelors and engineers in agriculture and forestry to refer to in the process of developing training programs, assessing outcomes for students, as well as innovating training methods towards developing learners’ capacity.
Psychometric properties of parent reading belief inventory with a sample of Indonesian mothers
Authors: Utomo Hanggara Budi , Wati Epritha Kurnia , Wulansari Widi , Khan Rosa Imani
Published: October 2023

The beliefs that parent currently have are increasingly attracting attention regarding the implementation of literacy for their children at home, was measured using parent reading belief inventory (PRBI) measuring tool developed by DeBaryshe and Binder. PRBI has not been adapted in Indonesia, making collaborative research difficult. Respondents in this study were mothers who had children aged 3-6 years old totally 177 respondents. Sampling technique with quota sampling. This research aims to develop a reliable and valid version of PRBI in Indonesia using International Test Commission guidelines. Data analysis using the second-order confirmatory factor analysis. The results showed that PRBI instrument was a valid and reliable instrument to measure the beliefs of parents in carrying out reading aloud activities with their children in Indonesia. Future research is expected to improve PRBI construct empirically based on the culture in each region, so that it can identify types of parents’ reading beliefs that implication children’s reading abilities.
Students’ conceptual understanding and causes of misconceptions on Newton’s Law
Authors: Isra Rania Atara , Mufit Fatni
Published: October 2023

The aim of this research is to examine students’ conceptual comprehension and misconception causes on Newton’s Law material with a survey research method. The data collection instruments used five-tier multiple-choice tests and teacher interview guidelines. The sample selected was 259 students from three schools with the school categories of high, medium, and low as well as three physics teachers in these schools. The research results showed that the average misconception in the high, moderate, and low-category schools was, respectively, 19.4%, 20.61%, and 37.82% with the most misconceptions of each school category, on how to describe the force acting on objects, on how to investigate the direction of motion of objects on a particular trajectory, and on how to explain Newton’s Law I and the nature of inertia. Students in low-category schools experienced more misconceptions than medium and high-category school learners. The causes of misconceptions in the three categories of schools mostly came from the personal thoughts of the learners themselves. The implication of this research is that students in all school categories tend to experience misconceptions, mainly due to personal thoughts. Teachers are advised to identify and remediate students’ misconceptions so that they do not hinder their learning progress.
Is collaborative peer assessment model effective for genre-based writing in university?
Authors: Mazulfah Mazulfah , Faridi Abdurrachman , Rukmini Dwi , Mujiyanto Yan
Published: October 2023

The existing peer assessment model for genre-based writing must be developed to gain the maximum quality of the assessment. It needs to be integrated with collaborative learning and problem-based learning and make the peer assessment as part of learning. Thus, this research has aim to determine the effectiveness of the peer assessment model in the group genre-based writing class. The method used was quantitative method with comparative design. The model was developed at seventh semester of English Education Department, Universitas Islam Negeri Salatiga, Indonesia. There are 23 pre-service English teachers (PSETs) joining on the implementation developed peer assessment model collaborative genre-based writing peer assessment model. The result revealed that there is no difference between the score from the peer assessment and the score given by the lecturer. It can be concluded that the collaborative genre-based writing peer assessment conducted by students has similarities with the assessment conducted by the teacher. It supports that the students’ and teacher’s assessment has the same quality.