bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from Hierarchical phosphorylation of HOXB13 by mTOR dictates its activity and oncogenic function in prostate cancer
Authors: Chen Yonghong , Dufour Catherine R. , Han Lingwei , Li Ting , Xia Hui , Giguere Vincent
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Dysregulation of mTOR signaling plays a critical role in promoting prostate cancer growth. HOXB13, a homeodomain transcription factor, is known to influence the androgen response and prostate cancer development. Recently, HOXB13 was found to complex with mTOR on chromatin. However, the functional crosstalk between HOXB13 and mTOR remains elusive. We now report that mTOR directly interacts with and hierarchically phosphorylates HOXB13 at threonine 8 and 41 then serine 31 to promote its interaction with the E3 ligase SKP2 while enhancing its oncogenic properties. Expression of HOXB13 harboring phosphomimetic mutations at the mTOR-targeted sites stimulates prostate cancer cellular growth both in vitro and in murine xenografts. Transcriptional profiling studies revealed a phospho-HOXB13-dependent gene signature capable of robustly discriminating between normal prostate tissues, primary and metastatic prostate cancer samples. This work uncovers a previously unanticipated molecular cascade by which mTOR directly phosphorylates HOXB13 to dictate a specific gene program with oncogenic implications in prostate cancer.

Implications: Control of HOXB13 transcriptional activity via its direct phosphorylation by the mTOR kinase is a potential therapeutic avenue for the management of advanced prostate cancer.
Data from Hierarchical Phosphorylation of HOXB13 by mTOR Dictates Its Activity and Oncogenic Function in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Chen Yonghong , Dufour Catherine R. , Han Lingwei , Li Ting , Xia Hui , Giguère Vincent
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Dysregulation of mTOR signaling plays a critical role in promoting prostate cancer growth. HOXB13, a homeodomain transcription factor, is known to influence the androgen response and prostate cancer development. Recently, HOXB13 was found to complex with mTOR on chromatin. However, the functional crosstalk between HOXB13 and mTOR remains elusive. We now report that mTOR directly interacts with and hierarchically phosphorylates HOXB13 at threonine 8 and 41 then serine 31 to promote its interaction with the E3 ligase SKP2 while enhancing its oncogenic properties. Expression of HOXB13 harboring phosphomimetic mutations at the mTOR-targeted sites stimulates prostate cancer cellular growth both in vitro and in murine xenografts. Transcriptional profiling studies revealed a phospho-HOXB13–dependent gene signature capable of robustly discriminating between normal prostate tissues, primary and metastatic prostate cancer samples. This work uncovers a previously unanticipated molecular cascade by which mTOR directly phosphorylates HOXB13 to dictate a specific gene program with oncogenic implications in prostate cancer.
Implications:
Control of HOXB13 transcriptional activity via its direct phosphorylation by the mTOR kinase is a potential therapeutic avenue for the management of advanced prostate cancer.
Podoplanin Drives Amoeboid Invasion in Canine and Human Mucosal Melanoma
Authors: Shinada Masahiro , Kato Daiki , Motegi Tomoki , Tsuboi Masaya , Ikeda Namiko , Aoki Susumu , Iguchi Takaaki , Li Toshio , Kodera Yuka , Ota Ryosuke , Hashimoto Yuko , Takahashi Yosuke , Chambers James , Uchida Kazuyuki , Kato Yukinari , Nishimura Ryohei , Nakagawa Takayuki
Published: July 2023

Mucosal melanoma metastasizes at an early stage of the disease in human and dog. We revealed that overexpression of podoplanin in tumor invasion fronts (IF) was related to poor prognosis of dogs with mucosal melanoma. Moreover, podoplanin expressed in canine mucosal melanoma cells promotes proliferation and aggressive amoeboid invasion by activating Rho-associated kinase (ROCK)-myosin light chain 2 (MLC2) signaling. PDPN-ROCK-MLC2 signaling plays a role in cell-cycle arrest and cellular senescence escape as a mechanism for regulating proliferation. Podoplanin induces amoeboid invasion in the IFs of mouse xenografted tumor tissues, similar to canine mucosal melanoma clinical samples. We further identified that podoplanin expression was related to poor prognosis of human patients with mucosal melanoma, and human mucosal melanoma with podoplanin-high expression enriched gene signatures related to amoeboid invasion, similar to canine mucosal melanoma. Overall, we propose that podoplanin promotes canine and human mucosal melanoma metastasis by inducing aggressive amoeboid invasion and naturally occurring canine mucosal melanoma can be a novel research model for podoplanin expressing human mucosal melanoma.

Implications:

Podoplanin could be a new therapeutic target to restrict the metastatic dissemination of canine and human mucosal melanoma.
CBF-Beta Mitigates PI3K-Alpha–Specific Inhibitor Killing through PIM1 in PIK3CA-Mutant Gastric Cancer
Authors: Stanland Lyla J. , Ang Hazel X. , Hoj Jacob P. , Chu Yunqiang , Tan Patrick , Wood Kris C. , Luftig Micah A.
Published: July 2023

PIK3CA is the second most mutated gene in cancer leading to aberrant PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling and increased translation, proliferation, and survival. Some 4%–25% of gastric cancers display activating PIK3CA mutations, including 80% of Epstein–Barr virus–associated GCs. Small molecules, including pan-PI3K and dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitors, have shown moderate success clinically, due to broad on-target/off-tissue effects. Thus, isoform-specific and mutant selective inhibitors have been of significant interest. However, drug resistance is a problem and has affected success of new drugs. There has been a concerted effort to define mechanisms of resistance and identify potent combinations in many tumor types, though gastric cancer is comparatively understudied. In this study, we identified modulators of the response to the PI3Kα-specific inhibitor, BYL719, in PIK3CA-mutant GCs. We found that loss of NEDD9 or inhibition of BCL-XL conferred hypersensitivity to BYL719, through increased cell-cycle arrest and cell death, respectively. In addition, we discovered that loss of CBFB conferred resistance to BYL719. CBFB loss led to upregulation of the protein kinase PIM1, which can phosphorylate and activate several overlapping downstream substrates as AKT thereby maintaining pathway activity in the presence of PI3Kα inhibition. The addition of a pan-PIM inhibitor re-sensitized resistant cells to BYL719. Our data provide clear mechanistic insights into PI3Kα inhibitor response in PIK3CA-mutant gastric tumors and can inform future work as mutant-selective inhibitors are in development for diverse tumor types.

Implications:

Loss of either NEDD9 or BCL-XL confers hypersensitivity to PI3K-alpha inhibition whereas loss of CBFB confers resistance through a CBFB/PIM1 signaling axis.
Table S5 from Proteogenomic Approaches for the Identification of NF1/Neurofibromin-depleted Estrogen Receptor–positive Breast Cancers for Targeted Treatment
Authors: Kim Beom-Jun , Zheng Ze-Yi , Lei Jonathan T. , Holt Matthew V. , Chen Anran , Peng Jianheng , Fandino Diana , Singh Purba , Kennedy Hilda , Dou Yongchao , Chica-Parrado María del Rosario , Bikorimana Emmanuel , Ye Dan , Wang Yunguan , Hanker Ariella B. , Mohamed Nada , Hilsenbeck Susan G. , Lim Bora , Asirvatham Jaya Ruth , Sreekumar Arun , Zhang Bing , Miles George , Anurag Meenakshi , Ellis Matthew J. , Chang Eric C.
Published: July 2023

Table S5. Ki67 and NF1 protein levels in the POL cohort.
Supplementary Figures S1-S21 from Integrated Multi-omics Analysis of Early Lung Adenocarcinoma Links Tumor Biological Features with Predicted Indolence or Aggressiveness
Authors: Senosain Maria-Fernanda , Zou Yong , Patel Khushbu , Zhao Shilin , Coullomb Alexis , Rowe Dianna J. , Lehman Jonathan M. , Irish Jonathan M. , Maldonado Fabien , Kammer Michael N. , Pancaldi Vera , Lopez Carlos F.
Published: July 2023

Supplementary figures
FIGURE 4 from Integrated Multi-omics Analysis of Early Lung Adenocarcinoma Links Tumor Biological Features with Predicted Indolence or Aggressiveness
Authors: Senosain Maria-Fernanda , Zou Yong , Patel Khushbu , Zhao Shilin , Coullomb Alexis , Rowe Dianna J. , Lehman Jonathan M. , Irish Jonathan M. , Maldonado Fabien , Kammer Michael N. , Pancaldi Vera , Lopez Carlos F.
Published: July 2023

Data integration reveals an association between radiomics features and tumor biology. A, Heat map showing the z-score per patient (columns) per feature (rows) split by clusters. Top annotation shows some clinical characteristics and bottom annotation shows mutated genes. B, PCA of patients (top) and features (bottom) colored by cluster. C, RFS (left) and PFS of patients from cluster 4 versus 1, 2, 3 (top) and 4 versus 1 (bottom).
Figure S1 from Proteogenomic Approaches for the Identification of NF1/Neurofibromin-depleted Estrogen Receptor–positive Breast Cancers for Targeted Treatment
Authors: Kim Beom-Jun , Zheng Ze-Yi , Lei Jonathan T. , Holt Matthew V. , Chen Anran , Peng Jianheng , Fandino Diana , Singh Purba , Kennedy Hilda , Dou Yongchao , Chica-Parrado María del Rosario , Bikorimana Emmanuel , Ye Dan , Wang Yunguan , Hanker Ariella B. , Mohamed Nada , Hilsenbeck Susan G. , Lim Bora , Asirvatham Jaya Ruth , Sreekumar Arun , Zhang Bing , Miles George , Anurag Meenakshi , Ellis Matthew J. , Chang Eric C.
Published: July 2023

Figure S1. NF1 gene structure and expression analyses.
FIGURE 4 from Proteogenomic Approaches for the Identification of NF1/Neurofibromin-depleted Estrogen Receptor–positive Breast Cancers for Targeted Treatment
Authors: Kim Beom-Jun , Zheng Ze-Yi , Lei Jonathan T. , Holt Matthew V. , Chen Anran , Peng Jianheng , Fandino Diana , Singh Purba , Kennedy Hilda , Dou Yongchao , Chica-Parrado María del Rosario , Bikorimana Emmanuel , Ye Dan , Wang Yunguan , Hanker Ariella B. , Mohamed Nada , Hilsenbeck Susan G. , Lim Bora , Asirvatham Jaya Ruth , Sreekumar Arun , Zhang Bing , Miles George , Anurag Meenakshi , Ellis Matthew J. , Chang Eric C.
Published: July 2023

Establish an IHC assay to detect NF1 protein in FFPE tumor samples. A, IHC was performed on a set of cell lines with varying degrees of NF1 (left). Protein lysates from indicated cell lines were also analyzed by immunoblot as shown on the right. B, IHC was performed to analyze a panel of ER+ PDOs with known NF1 status as determined by DNA sequencing. C, IHC was performed on one of the TMAs from the TMA Breast Cancer Continuum set, in which each TMA contains longitudinal samples from the same patient progressing from DCIS (D) to primary breast cancer (P). Kidney (K) was the normal tissue control on the TMA. Scale bar = 50 μm.
Supplementary Video S1 from Natural killer cell activation by Ubiquitin-specific protease 6 (USP6) mediates tumor suppression in Ewing sarcoma
Authors: Jain Kanika , Henrich Ian C , Quick Laura , Young Robert , Mondal Shreya , Oliveira Andre M. , Blobel Gerd A. , Chou Margaret M
Published: July 2023

Live cell imaging of NK92 killing USP6/RD-ES cells
Supplementary Figure S6 from Natural killer cell activation by Ubiquitin-specific protease 6 (USP6) mediates tumor suppression in Ewing sarcoma
Authors: Jain Kanika , Henrich Ian C , Quick Laura , Young Robert , Mondal Shreya , Oliveira Andre M. , Blobel Gerd A. , Chou Margaret M
Published: July 2023

Gating strategy for NK cells in peripheral blood
Data from Proteogenomic Approaches for the Identification of NF1/Neurofibromin-depleted Estrogen Receptor–positive Breast Cancers for Targeted Treatment
Authors: Kim Beom-Jun , Zheng Ze-Yi , Lei Jonathan T. , Holt Matthew V. , Chen Anran , Peng Jianheng , Fandino Diana , Singh Purba , Kennedy Hilda , Dou Yongchao , Chica-Parrado María del Rosario , Bikorimana Emmanuel , Ye Dan , Wang Yunguan , Hanker Ariella B. , Mohamed Nada , Hilsenbeck Susan G. , Lim Bora , Asirvatham Jaya Ruth , Sreekumar Arun , Zhang Bing , Miles George , Anurag Meenakshi , Ellis Matthew J. , Chang Eric C.
Published: July 2023

NF1 is a key tumor suppressor that represses both RAS and estrogen receptor-α (ER) signaling in breast cancer. Blocking both pathways by fulvestrant (F), a selective ER degrader, together with binimetinib (B), a MEK inhibitor, promotes tumor regression in NF1-depleted ER+ models. We aimed to establish approaches to determine how NF1 protein levels impact B+F treatment response to improve our ability to identify B+F sensitive tumors. We examined a panel of ER+ patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models by DNA and mRNA sequencing and found that more than half of these models carried an NF1 shallow deletion and generally have low mRNA levels. Consistent with RAS and ER activation, RET and MEK levels in NF1-depleted tumors were elevated when profiled by mass spectrometry (MS) after kinase inhibitor bead pulldown. MS showed that NF1 can also directly and selectively bind to palbociclib-conjugated beads, aiding quantification. An IHC assay was also established to measure NF1, but the MS-based approach was more quantitative. Combined IHC and MS analysis defined a threshold of NF1 protein loss in ER+ breast PDX, below which tumors regressed upon treatment with B+F. These results suggest that we now have a MS-verified NF1 IHC assay that can be used for patient selection as a complement to somatic genomic analysis.
Significance:
A major challenge for targeting the consequence of tumor suppressor disruption is the accurate assessment of protein functional inactivation. NF1 can repress both RAS and ER signaling, and a ComboMATCH trial is underway to treat the patients with binimetinib and fulvestrant. Herein we report a MS-verified NF1 IHC assay that can determine a threshold for NF1 loss to predict treatment response. These approaches may be used to identify and expand the eligible patient population.
Data from Natural Killer Cell Activation by Ubiquitin-specific Protease 6 Mediates Tumor Suppression in Ewing Sarcoma
Authors: Jain Kanika , Henrich Ian C. , Quick Laura , Young Robert , Mondal Shreya , Oliveira Andre M. , Blobel Gerd A. , Chou Margaret M.
Published: July 2023

Ewing sarcoma is a rare and deadly pediatric bone cancer for which survival rates and treatment options have stagnated for decades. Ewing sarcoma has not benefited from immunotherapy due to poor understanding of how its immune landscape is regulated. We recently reported that ubiquitin-specific protease 6 (USP6) functions as a tumor suppressor in Ewing sarcoma, and identified it as the first cell-intrinsic factor to modulate the Ewing sarcoma immune tumor microenvironment (TME). USP6 induces intratumoral infiltration and activation of multiple innate immune lineages in xenografted nude mice. Here we report that natural killer (NK) cells are essential for its tumor-inhibitory functions, as NK cell depletion reverses USP6-mediated suppression of Ewing sarcoma xenograft growth. USP6 expression in Ewing sarcoma cells directly stimulates NK cell activation and degranulation in vitro, and functions by increasing surface levels of multiple NK cell-activating ligands. USP6 also induces surface upregulation of the receptor for the apoptosis-inducing ligand tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL), providing an additional route for enhanced sensitivity to NK cell killing. Furthermore, USP6-expressing Ewing sarcoma and NK cells participate in a paracrine immunostimulatory feedforward loop, wherein IFNγ secreted by activated NK cells feeds back on USP6/Ewing sarcoma cells to induce synergistic expression of chemokines CXCL9 and CXCL10. Remarkably, expression of USP6 in subcutaneous Ewing sarcoma xenografts induces systemic activation and maturation of NK cells, and induces an abscopal response in which growth of distal tumors is inhibited, coincident with increased infiltration and activation of NK cells. This work reveals how USP6 reprograms the Ewing sarcoma TME to enhance antitumor immunity, and may be exploited for future therapeutic benefit.
Significance:
This study provides novel insights into the immunomodulatory functions of USP6, the only cancer cell–intrinsic factor demonstrated to regulate the immune TME in Ewing sarcoma. We demonstrate that USP6-mediated suppression of Ewing sarcoma tumorigenesis is dependent on NK cells. USP6 directly activates NK cell cytolytic function, inducing both intratumoral and systemic activation of NK cells in an Ewing sarcoma xenograft model.
Dodecafluoropentane Emulsion as a Radiosensitizer in Glioblastoma Multiforme
Authors: Lickliter Jason D. , Ruben Jeremy , Kichenadasse Ganessan , Jennens Ross , Gzell Cecelia , Mason Ralph P. , Zhou Heling , Becker Jennifer , Unger Evan , Stea Baldassarre
Published: July 2023

Purpose:

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a hypoxic tumor resistant to radiotherapy. The purpose of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of a novel oxygen therapeutic, dodecafluoropentane emulsion (DDFPe), in chemoradiation treatment of GBM.

Experimental Design:

In this multicenter phase Ib/II dose-escalation study, patients were administered DDFPe via intravenous infusion (0.05, 0.10, or 0.17 mL/kg) while breathing supplemental oxygen prior to each 2 Gy fraction of radiotherapy (30 fractions over 6 weeks). Patients also received standard-of-care chemotherapy [temozolomide (TMZ)]. Serial MRI scans were taken to monitor disease response. Adverse events were recorded and graded. TOLD (tissue oxygenation level–dependent) contrast MRI was obtained to validate modulation of tumor hypoxia.

Results:

Eleven patients were enrolled. DDFPe combined with radiotherapy and TMZ was well tolerated in most patients. Two patients developed delayed grade 3 radiation necrosis during dose escalation, one each at 0.1 and 0.17 mL/kg of DDFPe. Subsequent patients were treated at the 0.1 mL/kg dose level. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed a median overall survival of 19.4 months and a median progression-free survival of 9.6 months, which compares favorably to historical controls. Among 6 patients evaluable for TOLD MRI, a statistically significant reduction in tumor T1 was observed after DDFPe treatment.

Conclusions:

This trial, although small, showed that the use of DDFPe as a radiosensitizer in patients with GBM was generally safe and may provide a survival benefit. This is also the first time than TOLD MRI has shown reversal of tumor hypoxia in a clinical trial in patients. The recommended dose for phase II evaluation is 0.1 mL/kg DDFPe.

Trial Registration: NCT02189109

Significance:

This study shows that DDFPe can be safely administered to patients, and it is the first-in-human study to show reversal of hypoxia in GBM as measured by TOLD MRI. This strategy is being used in a larger phase II/III trial which will hopefully show a survival benefit by adding DDFPe during the course of fractionated radiation and concurrent chemotherapy.
Exploring digital competencies domain and elements for information technology graduates in Malaysia
Authors: Ismail Asnidatul Adilah , Hassan Razali
Published: July 2023

This paper explores the reliability of an instrument to evaluate digital competencies domain and elements for polytechnics’ information technology (IT) graduates in Malaysia towards future industrial revolution using exploratory factor analysis (EFA). This study thereby obtained 146 items from the previous phase (industries experts’ interview) which was later developed according to the study’s objectives. Experts validated the items, and after that, a pilot study was executed with 102 randomly chosen Polytechnics’ IT lecturers from four Malaysian Polytechnics as the respondents for this study. Four domains had been decided which are Personal Effective Competencies, Functional Competencies, Essential Competencies, and Industrial Revolution 4.0 (4IR) Competencies. Elements for each domain were created using the EFA, in which internal reliability was achieved for all construct dimensions. There were 15 elements gained through EFA for those four domains.
Teaching competency in virtual education: Systematic review
Authors: Cuzcano-Huarcaya Martha-Amparo , Mendez Vergaray Juan , Cuzcano-Santa Cruz Carol Maritza , Sanchez Diaz Sebastian , Flores Edward
Published: July 2023

This study arises as a need to recognize teaching competencies and their integration to become professionals who respond to current challenges aimed at improving learning achievements and comprehensive training of students. The objective of the research was to analyze and recognize teaching competencies in virtual education in higher education students. The study is important due to the direct relationship with student learning. The study was qualitative research, with a systematic design, followed the methodology proposed by the PRISMA declaration. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to process the articles analyzed. A study was conducted based on 38 articles published in high impact scientific journals between 2019 and 2022. The results showed that teaching competencies in virtual education must be worked in an integrated manner: disciplinary, pedagogical, technological and research competencies that will translate into a real development of teaching-learning processes, better teaching performance and student performance. The studies determine that the disciplinary, pedagogical, technological, and investigative competence must be worked on in an interrelated manner, there is a need to integrate technology effectively, and it is important to promote research in students through experiments that allow building skills.
Gender-based analysis on self-efficacy beliefs of pre-service teachers and their readiness in taking licensure examination
Authors: Muega-Geronimo Vilma , Carlos Marites D.
Published: July 2023

The study aimed to determine whether preservice teachers’ self-efficacy belief differs according to gender and whether this belief relates to their readiness in taking the licensure examination for teachers (LET). Participants of the study were 545 preservice teachers who were undergoing in-service training both from the secondary and elementary programs that came from four campuses of the university. The researcher utilized a descriptive quantitative approach with weighted mean, t-test for the independent sample, and Pearson R correlation statistical treatments for the data. Results revealed that females are statistically higher in self-efficacy beliefs than their male counterparts. Further, the study disclosed that female preservice teachers are significantly more ready to take the examination than their male peers. In addition, the male students’ self-efficacy beliefs statistically have a positive significant relationship to their readiness to take examination. Meanwhile, a positive significant relationship exists also between self-efficacy beliefs and readiness in taking the test with their female counterparts.
Impact of COVID-19 and emotional states of Filipino university students
Authors: Miranda John Paul Palo , Tolentino Julius Ceazar Gatchalian
Published: July 2023

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has extremely caused massive disruptions in the education sector, and this led to the adoption of full-distance learning modalities across different educational institutions worldwide. However, studies are still needed within the context of the Philippines in terms of the impact of the pandemic on university students in light of a gradual limited face-to-face transition. This study determined the Filipino college students’ perceived impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress symptomatology (DASS) among them. This cross-sectional study surveyed Filipino university students from a public higher education institution in the Philippines via convenience sampling. A total of 3,718 students participated in the study. Analysis showed that despite the respondents’ level of DASS being roughly similar and normal, half of them is experiencing mild to extremely severe symptomatology. Further results indicated that there is a statistically significant difference in their DASS when grouped according to their gender and class level. The findings will be beneficial to multiple stakeholders in designing data-driven policies that would maximize the possibility of a safe resumption of limited, gradual, and eventually, full face-to-face modalities.
Online-based activities to improve students’ critical thinking, problem solving, and communication
Authors: Waruwu Marinu , Dwikurnaningsih Yari , Satyawati Sophia Tri
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to explain how students’ critical thinking, problem solving and communication skills can be developed through student development activities in online-based scientific discussion programs at universities. This study used a mix method approach with a sequential explanatory model. The research was conducted using quantitative methods in the first stage and then in the second stage using qualitative methods. Management discussion model was measured through questionnaires and interviews. The quantitative data analysis was employed to identify the effectiveness of the discussion model and its impact. The qualitative data analysis was carried out in three stages, namely data reduction, data presentation; and drawing conclusions. The research findings showed that the model of student development activities with online-based scientific discussion methods can significantly improve students’ critical thinking, problem solving, and communication skills. The results of this study indicated that universities provide opportunities for students to improve critical thinking skills, problem solving and communication skills through online-based scientific discussion programs.
Automated writing evaluation tools for Indonesian undergraduate English as a foreign language students’ writing
Authors: Miranty Delsa , Widiati Utami , Cahyono Bambang Yudi , Suzila Tengku Intan
Published: July 2023

Nowadays, many computer programs are used in the teaching of writing in the context of English as a foreign language (EFL). One of the functions of the computer programs is to provide feedback to EFL students’ writing so that the quality of their writing can be improved. This study aimed to investigate whether the use of free automated writing evaluation (AWE) tools affect undergraduate EFL students’ writing skills. In this experimental study, 35 Indonesian undergraduate students of English education department were asked to use two AWE tools, Grammarly and Grammark, in the writing course over four months. Data for this study were collected by using tests and questionnaire. Pre-test, middle test, and post-test were administered to examine the students’ writing skill improvement. The findings indicate that the sequenced use of two AWE tools, Grammarly followed by Grammark, had a beneficial effect on students’ writing skill improvement. This study confirms the benefits of free AWE tools in enhancing EFL students’ writing skills.
Technology readiness in enterprise resource planning gamification to improve student learning outcomes
Authors: Septiawan Budi , Musyaffi Ayatulloh Michael , Quinn Martin , Ratifah Ifa
Published: July 2023

In online learning, students often experience problems related to the use of technology. One of them is enterprise resource planning (ERP) technology. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the technology readiness index (TRI) to measure the extent to which students’ readiness for ERP gamification. This research targets students who use ERP gamification during management information systems and accounting information systems courses. The technique of determining the sample is using a census. So that all the population is used as a sample of 153 students in Indonesia, then analyzed using TRI. Through TRI analysis using SEM PLS, most students studying ERP gamification have a medium readiness index. The findings of this research showed that students are very close to technology, so they have a strong adoption of technology. Most students have an explorer character where they are enthusiastic and have high curiosity about learning ERP gamification. Pioneers who need a little encouragement from external parties to adopt ERP gamification. However, typical skeptics should be given a concrete example of the benefits of using ERP in learning. This research is also a benchmark for developing technology-based learning media according to the characteristics of students who are intended for technology in higher education.
Student perception of online learning activities during COVID-19 pandemic: Psychological constraints and factors
Authors: Fazriyah Latifatul , Kusrohmaniah Sri
Published: July 2023

COVID-19 pandemic has brought many changes to our lives. One of the prominent changes is the offline learning model changed to online. This change may have an impact on the effectiveness of the learning process and students’ understanding of the knowledge conveyed by the lecturer. So, a further analysis needs to be done. In this study, students’ perceptions of online learning during the pandemic were explored. The goal was to find out what students think and feel while participating in online learning during pandemic so that in the future lecturers are able to create or choose the more effective learning models for their classes. This research was conducted using the phenomenological method on several students’ majoring in health science who were undergoing school from home (SFH). Data collection was carried out using the depth interview method by telephone and WhatsApp chat according to the flexibility of the participants’ time. The finding of this research showed that e-learning programs carried out during the pandemic actually put more mental pressure on students’ and decrease their learning motivation, especially in early days of the program. This happened due to the lecturer and university lack of readiness in carrying out the program.
Writing anxiety among international students in a Thai university
Authors: Anthoney Jebamani , Wilang Jeffrey Dawala
Published: July 2023

Literature on writing anxiety among undergraduate students in international universities situated in English as a foreign language context remains scarce. In this study, a survey questionnaire was distributed to know the writing anxiety level of students and anxiety level differences based on nationality and locality. A total of 138 students participated using convenience sampling. Afterward, five students, based on their writing anxiety level, were purposely chosen to attend two sorting activities of statements regarding the change in their writing anxiety. Then, individual semi-structured interviews were conducted to know the factors of writing anxiety change. Descriptive results from the survey have shown that students in an international university experienced high anxiety in specific situations in writing. Also, varying writing anxiety levels were found based on nationality and locality. Findings from the sorting activity indicated that some writing anxiety-provoking situations have changed over a 2-week time frame due to some factors. Some implications for teaching were recommended to reduce writing anxiety in the classroom.
Implementing quality function deployment using service quality and Kano model to the quality of e-learning
Authors: Theresiawati Theresiawati , Seta Henki Bayu , Arista Artika
Published: July 2023

E-learning has become an important aspect of university education. System evaluation must be carried out by higher education management to identify the number of e-learning successes and future improvement efforts. Three research methodologies were used in this study to measure, classify, and translate service quality into an improvement process, namely SERVQUAL, Kano model, and quality functional deployment (QFD). A survey involving 219 UPN “Veteran” Jakarta students as e-learning users were done to examine the developed methodology. The partial least square (PLS) method was used to process the data. This study employed the quantitative method. Website content, assurance, empathy, responsiveness, tangibles, reliability, and learning content are variables in this approach. This study provided knowledge on identifying and analyzing the quality of e-learning services using the service quality (SERVQUAL) method by calculating the score gap between the perceived service quality assessment (performance) and the expected service quality using website content, assurance, empathy research variables, responsiveness, tangibles, reliability, learning content, e-learning quality, satisfaction, and behavioral intention. This study also evaluates what improvements can be made to improve the quality of e-learning services.
Determinants of stunting in children aged 24-59 months: a case- control study
Authors: Muliani Muliani , Tondong Henrietta Imelda , Lewa Abd Farid , Mutmainnah Mutmainnah , Maineny Arie , Asrawaty Asrawaty
Published: July 2023

Stunting is a sign of persistent malnutrition during a critical period of child development, especially in the second trimester of pregnancy. This study aimed to determine the causes of stunting in infants between 24 and 59 months. The Kamaipura Health Center in Sigi Regency, Indonesia is the location for the research. Data was collected from January to December 2020 from medical record data. The population consisted of 156 children under the age of five, of which 134 samples were selected using a purposive sampling technique and were divided into two groups: stunting and non-stunting. Analytic test using Chi-square, OR, and logistic regression (p=0.05). Infants who are not exclusively breastfed have a 9.44 times higher risk of stunting (OR=9.44; 95% CI=4.28 to 20.7), according to an analysis with a CI of -95%. Chronic energy deficiency and low birth weight during pregnancy are associated with an increased risk of growth disorders by 5.98 (OR=5.98; 95% CI=2.47 to 14.43) and 4.6 times (OR=4.6) respectively; 95% CI=1.73 to 12.42). In addition, the R-square logistic regression analysis of 0.374 indicates that the overall influence of the variables is 37.4%. A history of exclusive breastfeeding, low birth weight (LBW) babies, and chronic energy deficiency (CED) during pregnancy is strongly associated with the prevalence of stunting. To reduce the prevalence of poor growth, better health promotion is needed from the beginning of pregnancy.
Iron and calcium nutrition interventions among Vietnamese women
Authors: Nguyen Linh Thuy , Pham Tho Anh , Thanh Ta Nga , Komatsu Yoshinori , Tran Thao Phuong
Published: July 2023

Iron and calcium deficiencies remain a concern amongst working-age women in low to middle-income countries. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of nutritional intervention on the improvement of the iron status and calcium intake of this population. Non-pregnant workers at a company were divided into two groups. The intervention group (n=118) received nutritional intervention including nutritional education and an 8-week course of oral nutritional supplements (ONS). The control group (n=106) did not receive any intervention. Nutritional assessment, level of Hb concentration, serum iron, and ferritin were taken at baseline and after eight weeks. The results showed iron and calcium intake increased significantly in the intervention group. The effective intervention of serum iron was 33.3%. In conclusion, nutritional intervention such as nutritional education and ONS consumption is effective for improving iron status and calcium intake in working-age women.
Lifetime prevalence of dysgraphia and associated family environment characteristics in primary schools
Authors: Abed Sameeha Naser , Abbas Dhakam Mohammed , Dawood Israa
Published: July 2023

The current study was designed to screen and observe dysgraphia in primary schools in Wassit governorate in Iraq. In addition, to identify the presence of any family environment characteristics associated with dysgraphia, a cross-sectional study has been applied during the period from 1st November 2018 to the end of March 2019, which was conducted on 421 students from public and private primary schools which were randomly selected. The lifetime prevalence of students with dysgraphia was 27% in the present study. Most students (53.2%) were equal to or less than 10 years old. In the population sample, dysgraphia prevailed more in boys than girls. Illiteracy was higher for the students who have fathers with dysgraphia (39.3%) as compared to the students who have non- dysgraphia fathers (29.4%). The difference was more significant for the age, gender, and level of education of parents (p<0.05). It was concluded that dysgraphia among primary school students aged 7-12 years occurs at a lifetime prevalence of nearly one-third of them. In our study, it was affirmed that dysgraphia is a problem that most commonly affects males more than females. It is important to note that the difference between the two groups was statistically significant in regard to age, gender, and level of education of parents.
Earmarking policy: how it affects the Indonesian health and education sector
Authors: Fadli Faishal , Sumantri Vietha Devia Sagita
Published: July 2023

This research analyses the implementation of earmarking policies in Indonesia that allocate 20% of expenditure for the education sector and 5% for the health sector by using the difference in difference method in the before and after the pandemic period. This research uses life expectancy at birth, number of maternal deaths, and the budget allocation for health as a representation of the health sector. To represent the education sector, this research uses primary education pupils, the primary school pupils-teacher ratio, and the budget allocation for education. This research also using propensity score matching and chow breakpoint test for robustness checks. The results of this research show the health and education sectors improved during the implementation of earmarking policy.
Impact of COVID-19 pandemic in dermatology outpatient visits
Authors: Fida Monika , Toçi Dorina , Toçi Ervin , Dedej Sabina , Tafica Arbnore , Kore Amanda , Vasili Ermira
Published: July 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic lockdown measures significantly affected the readiness of dermatology patients to contact health services. However, such trends have yet to be documented in Albania. To this aim, we collected the relevant information about all patients who sought medical help at the dermatology clinic, University Hospital Center “Mother Theresa”, in Tirana, Albania, during 2019-2021 and compared outpatient visits trend across the years. A total of 7,807 patients have been consulted in our dermatology clinic during this period. Compared to 2019, the number of visits decreased significantly by 72% in 2020 and 57% during 2021. The ratio of visits by gender Male/Female, for the three years, was 1:1.1, 1:1.3, and 1:1, respectively. The age group >65 years old had more frequently visited our clinic but its weight within all patients dropped by 5 percentage points during the pandemic. Patients from Tirana had frequented more often the outpatient unit in 2019 and 2021. In conclusion, the pandemic situation due to COVID-19 had an unprecedented impact on Dermatology Service in our university tertiary center. There were significant reductions in the number of outpatient visits, and other differences with regard to patients’ demographic characteristics.
Online love fraud and the experiences of indonesian women: a qualitative study
Authors: Niman Susanti , Parulian Tina Shinta , Rothhaar Timothy
Published: July 2023

Online love fraud is a cybercrime. Victims typically lose around 500 billion rupiahs every year in Indonesia. The research related to the experiences of victims of love scammers is limited, and the authorities often ignore victims who report. This study aimed to explore the experiences of Indonesian women as a victim. The study is qualitative with a phenomenological design utilizing purposive sampling. Twelve victims of online love fraud participated in the study. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews via video chat. Data processing was carried out by verbatim transcription of the video chats. The resulting texts were then rigorously read and re-read, coded, and grouped according to emerging themes. The victims described the experiences of sending large sums of money and naked photos to the perpetrators. The themes reflect the psychosocial impact of love fraud on women: shock, sadness, anger, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Online love fraud impacts the psychosocial functioning of victims. Victims feel a double burden in losing money and self-respect. These findings highlight the importance of policy, mental health practice, and research. Conclusions suggest psychosocial intervention is vital for the survivor.
Determinant factors of stunting incidence in Muara Enim Regency, South Sumatra Province
Authors: Susyani Susyani , Sartono Sartono , Sadiq Ahmad , Telisa Imelda , Terati Terati , Sari Devy Kartika , Friantini Tri , Hasyim Hamzah
Published: July 2023

Early-life chronic malnutrition causes stunting. In 2021, Muara Enim Regency had a 24.8% stunting incidence, which is still higher than the stunting prevalence in South Sumatra at 24.4%. This research aims to look into the factors contributing to stunting in the Muara Enim. The study's design was cross-sectional, with a sample of children aged 6-59 months living in the Rambang sub-district of Muara Enim Regency. There are 269 children under five were selected as samples using a stratified random sampling procedure. The chi-square test and multiple logistic regression analyses were utilized for data analysis. The findings revealed that five variables, including birth length (p=0.224 OR=1.684), exclusive breastfeeding (p=0.009 and OR=2.590), mother's height (p=0.028 OR=1.834), mother's education level (p=0.001 OR=0.488), and ownership of latrine (p=0.045 OR=0.470), had a relation with stunting incidence. According to the multiple logistic regression test result, the most influential variable associated with the stunting incidence was the mother's level of education, with OR=2.369 (95% CI OR=1.376-4.078), indicating that mothers with lower levels of education were 2.37 times more likely to have children with stunting than mothers with higher levels of education.
Behavioral and psychological diagnosis for universities students after the corona pandemic closures
Authors: El Kailani Ghazi , Fattah Osama Abdel , Zureigat Ayed A. , A’mir Omar
Published: July 2023

With the coronavirus's rapid spread, most countries have taken preventive measures to limit this spread. Therefore, this paper aims to explore university students' behavioral and psychological variables. To achieve this, the researchers used the descriptive survey approach to the 3,152 Jordanian university students (2,194 female and 1,058 male). We put the Generalized Anxiety Disorder screener GAD-7 and behavioral variables an electronic questionnaire using (Google Forms). To achieve the study's objectives, we used: means, standard deviations, frequencies, percentages, Pearson correlation coefficient, and Chi-square tests with a confidence level of 95% (p<0.05). The study results revealed that (66.34%) don’t do regular physical activity, and there were statistically significant differences between males and females in the practice of physical activities in favor of males. In addition, (64.47%) of the study sample spent (5-10) hours, and (26.6%) spent more than (10) hours on social networking sites. Also, (40.03%) of the study sample suffers from fat accumulation in the waist, pelvis, and thighs. There were also (60.32%) who suffered from sleep disorders. In addition, there are overlapping relationships between the study variables (anxiety level, sleep duration, time spent on social networks, physical activities, and body shape).
Prevalence of occupational stress and workload among laboratory staff
Authors: Kumareswaran Suriya , Muhadi Siti Umairah , Sathasivam Jeyanthini , Thurairasu Vanitha
Published: July 2023

Job stress is the detrimental physical and emotional responses that might occur when there is conflict between the expectations of a job and an employee's ability to meet those needs. Workplace stress is a global primary risk factor for worker health and diminishes workers’ motivation and productivity. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 133 randomly selected laboratory staff from both private and government sectors in Johor, Malaysia. Descriptive analysis was conducted to establish the relationship between stress scores and the work burden of laboratory staff. The results indicate that 74% of the respondents have more than eighty percent stress scores. Cross tab demonstrates that there is an association between total staff and average patient daily and overall stress score (p-value <0.01). Pearson correlation shows a positive correlation between workplace environment and overall stress scores (p-value <0.01). The research indicates that work stress is a prevalent issue among laboratory staff. The well-being of laboratory staff is strongly connected to organisational success. Consequently, lab Staff, particularly those working in busy laboratories, should be highly prioritised.
Conhecimento médico sobre atividade física: uma revisão de literatura
Authors: Reiss Débora Borowiak , Rezende Diego Augusto Nunes , Gualano Bruno
Published: July 2023

É bem estabelecido na literatura médica que a prática de atividade física (AF) é benéfica a saúde, sendo capaz de prevenir e tratar doenças crônicas além de promover saúde e qualidade de vida. No entanto, a prevalência de inatividade física na população vem aumentando nos últimos anos, especialmente se considerado o contexto da pandemia de Covid-19. Uma revisão da literatura foi realizada para identificar o nível de conhecimento médico sobre aconselhamento e prescrição da prática regular de AF, estratégias já documentadas como efetivas em aumentar o nível de AF da população. Orientações médicas sobre estilo de vida saudável são bem aceitas pela população, sendo os médicos considerados fontes seguras de informação sobre saúde, caracterizando o laço de confiança na relação médico-paciente. No entanto, poucos são os profissionais que colocam em prática a avaliação dos níveis de AF dos seus pacientes. Aqueles que os fazem geralmente são ativos e adotam hábitos saudáveis de vida. Dentre as barreiras descritas a falta de tempo e de conhecimento específico foram as mais significativas. Na prática, raras são as universidades que oferecem treinamentos ou disciplinas específicas sobre aconselhamento e prescrição de AF nos cursos de medicina. Enquanto, no contexto da residência médica, apenas aquelas especialidades relacionadas ao cuidado primário e promoção de saúde, como Medicina da Família e Medicina Esportiva, abordam o tema para que seus residentes coloquem em prática as recomendações sobre AF para seus pacientes. Desse modo, para que a prática regular de AF seja integrada ao sistema de saúde, é imperativo incluir treinamento teórico e prático sobre AF em todos os níveis de treinamento médico, desde a faculdade até o programas de pós-graduação.
Tabu e perspectivismo em Wazi de Rogério Manjate
Authors: Gadelha Marina , Carneiro Adriano Guedes
Published: July 2023

Este artigo tem por objetivo analisar e comparar Wazi, de Rogério Manjate, um dos livros que compõe a coletânea “Contos de Moçambique”, com a versão original do conto, a fim de investigar o contexto histórico e social moçambicano em que estão inseridas as histórias recontadas. Pois, nessa obra em particular, Manjate opta por realizar uma ruptura com a versão original. Wazi é uma criança que vai caçar com o avô e este lhe avisa para jamais comer os frutos do lado direito do caminho. A ordem dada pelo mais velho e a palavra confirmada por Wazi são pontos fundamentais no conto para se compreender o tabu na tradição moçambicana. Diante da maldição atribuída ao menino, é possível se discutir o perspectivismo a partir do pensamento de Friedrich Nietzsche, Sigmund Freud, Toyin Falola, Eduardo Viveiros de Castro, Davi Kopenawa, entre outros.
Argyreia lawii C.B.Clarke (Convolvulaceae) – an extended distribution record in the Western Ghats of Kerala
Authors: A. Raja Rajeswari  , M.K. Nisha
Published: July 2023

Argyreia lawii C.B.Clarke (Convolvulaceae), an endemic species of the Western Ghats is recorded from Palakkad District as an addition to the state flora of Kerala. A short description along with color photographs are provided here to facilitate the future identification and collection.