bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effectiveness of Team Teaching in Improving Reading Skill among Thai EFL Undergraduates and Their Attitudes toward this Strategy
Authors: Duklim Bunyarat , Hasan Kamrul
Published: March 2024

In the context of the learning process, team-teaching has been found to be a successful and pleasurable pedagogical strategy, particularly in improving reading proficiency. The primary objective of this study was to examine the efficacy of employing the team-teaching technique in enhancing the reading skill of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students. The study also sought to assess the potential impact of using the team-teaching technique on the English language reading skill of Thai EFL students. Additionally, it attempted to explore the attitudes of these students towards the utilization of team-teaching in their educational setting. The study used a quasi-experimental methodology to look into how team-teaching instruction affects students' ability to improve their reading skill. The descriptive research design was employed to elucidate the attitudes of the students. The sample for this study consisted of undergraduate students who were enrolled in an English Reading and Writing course. A total of 150 students participated in this study, and they were randomly assigned to two groups. The control group consisted of 70 students while the experimental group comprised the remaining 80 students. Two instruments were constructed in order to accomplish the objectives of the study. The assessment tools utilized in this study included a reading passage and a questionnaire. At a significance threshold of α = 0.05, the study's results showed that there were statistically significant differences, favouring the experimental group in the post-test, when compared between the control and experimental groups. The findings of the study also indicated the presence of statistically significant differences, with a significance level of α=0.05. Based on the findings of the questionnaire, the majority of students expressed a preference for utilizing the team-teaching technique as a means of studying. This approach was favoured due to its facilitation of knowledge exchange between students and instructors, as well as its ability to foster mutual respect for differing perspectives among students. The results of the study have significant ramifications for English teachers who use collaborative instruction.
Academic English Writing Challenges in a Blended EFL and ESL Learning Environment: Insights from Chinese International High School Students
Authors: Wei Yaotong , Sulaiman Nur Ainil , Ismail Hanita Hanim
Published: March 2024

In the wake of China's educational internationalization policy and the technological shifts post-COVID-19, the mode of educational globalization has undergone significant transformations. In this context, this study investigates the academic English writing challenges of Chinese international high school students (CIHSSs) in a blended English as a foreign language (EFL) and English as a second language (ESL) learning environment. Drawing on Vygotsky's sociocultural theory and prior research, the study examines the specific hurdles CIHSSs face in academic writing. Previous research has highlighted various difficulties in academic English writing for international students; however, a significant research gap exists concerning high school students, especially in blended learning context settings. To fill this gap, this qualitative case study explores CIHSSs’ English language learning experiences, focusing particularly on their academic writing challenges in a blended EFL and ESL context. Through semi-structured individual interviews with three CIHSSs, the study conducts a thematic analysis to identify key challenges across five areas: cultural differences, unfamiliarity with academic norms, language proficiency limitations, communication barriers, and technological adaptation issues. The findings emphasize the importance of communication, especially peer support and collaborative learning, underlining the need for effective English language learning strategies (ELLSs). These insights are vital for educators and learners to navigate the complexities of blended EFL and ESL learning environments effectively.
Perceived Changes to Quality Assurance after AUN-QA Programme Assessment: Voices of Quality Assurance Practitioners, Academic Staff, and Students
Authors: Huynh Van-Son , Pham Huong Thi , Nguyen Minh-Hong Thi , Nguyen Phuong Vu
Published: March 2024

Quality assurance in Vietnamese higher education has been turning to a new page since it was made in recent years. Foreign accreditation is accepted in Vietnam, and, among foreign accrediting agencies, AUN-QA is more popular. This study examines the extent to which quality assessment by the AUN-QA could lead to changes in Vietnamese universities. This study adopted a basic qualitative approach to explore various stakeholders’ perceived changes with AUN-QA assessment with convenience and purposeful sampling techniques. Qualitative data were collected through interviews with various stakeholders such as students, academic staff, and quality assurance practitioners, followed by thematic analysis. The findings suggest that the AUN-QA quality assessment appeared to be the driver of positive changes, varying from accepting external quality assurance to learning the principles of constructive alignment in curriculum design, teaching and learning approaches, and student assessment. When the principle was learnt, superficial and minor changes were reported. The impacts were also evident in forming a culture of evidence (to demonstrate compliance with the external assessment). There were a few instances whereby changes were perceived as “perfunctory” because institutions used copying strategies for external assessment. Less evidence in the findings with not much discussion related to regular improvements and the dependence on individual academic staff for quality can be seen as directions for actions to be taken not only for the participating universities but also for other universities in Vietnam. The findings suggest that external assessment if applied appropriately to trigger stakeholders’ perceptions, could contribute to quality enhancement.
Insights into the Dynamic Relationship between Technology and Task-Based Language Teaching: A Critical Review
Authors: Palanisamy Bhuvaneshwari , Rajasekaran V
Published: March 2024

The advent of new technologies and educational tools, while undoubtedly exciting, can often lead their being a mere source of entertainment unless their design, deployment and assessment are grounded in the principles of educational and language development. The task-based language teaching approach, along with its theoretical premises in task-based language learning, offers an excellent opportunity to leverage the potential of technological advancements to create an engaging and effective language-learning process. This approach not only produces high-quality results but also instills a sense of validity and importance that extends beyond the confines of the classroom. Task-based language teaching has garnered significant attention from academicians in language education and second language acquisition from the 1980s. Current literature on task-based language teaching highlights its theoretical concepts and real-world application in foreign and second language teaching, which is continually growing. The integration of learning technology into task-based language teaching has the potential to instill confidence and motivation in learners and open a path for them to use their second language skills effectively in real-world situations, which is crucial in the twenty-first century. This analysis aims to examine the relationship between technology and task-based language teaching. It explores how technology affects task-based language teaching and vice versa, while also addressing the difficulties that arise when using task-based language teaching in technology-based contexts. Furthermore, this review illustrates a range of crucial aspects that require attention to further the development of technology-enhanced task-based language teaching.
Exploring Language Learning Strategies of TESL Practicum Students Through a Phenomenological Lens for Enhancing Language Competency
Authors: Khamis Norazah , Yunus Melor Md , Mansor Ahmad Zamri
Published: March 2024

Proficiency in English as a second language (TESL) and effective cross-cultural communication skills are paramount for future educators. This study investigates the language proficiency learning strategies and motivations of TESL students in engaging with English communications beyond the classroom. This aspect is frequently underestimated in Malaysian educational contexts. Employing a phenomenological approach, qualitative interviews were conducted with 13 TESL practicum students at a Malaysian public university, selected through purposive sampling to ensure diversity in backgrounds and experiences. The study spanned from August 2021 to August 2023, totalling 2 years. The duration of each interview ranged from 45 minutes to 2 hours. Thematic analysis of interview transcripts using NVivo software unveiled significant themes such as using audio-visual materials, leisure reading, note-taking, self-speaking practice, music listening, teaching and learning, gamification, and football commentary. The implications of these findings extend to TESL students, academic researchers, English teachers, and higher education institutions, suggesting avenues for further research to enrich language proficiency and communication skills among TESL students. Integrating these strategies into language education curricula is essential for fostering effective communication skills among future educators, thereby contributing to the advancement of educational practices in Malaysia and beyond.
Language Learning Strategies Used by Malaysian ESL Students to Improve English Communication: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Khamis Norazah , Md Yunus Melor , Mansor Ahmad Zamri
Published: March 2024

Communication in English has long been recognised as one of the most challenging skills for pupils learning the language. Many studies in recent years have also emphasised the relevance of English communication abilities. With the advancement of technology in our current day, kids may learn communication skills through a variety of tools. As a result, determining the learning approaches used by pupils to build their English communication talents is crucial. A systematic literature review is undertaken in this study to investigate the prevailing language learning approaches utilised by Malaysian pupils acquiring English as a Second Language (ESL). Four databases were utilised to obtain the publications that were analysed: Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Science (WoS), and Google Scholar. The articles that met the eligibility criteria were published between 2020-2023. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) is the methodology utilised in this review. Metacognitive and cognitive processes were the most frequently utilised methods for improving speaking abilities, followed by compensatory and social approaches, according to the data. Memory and emotive methods, on the other hand, were the least used by pupils. The new study might assist teachers in selecting the best teaching method for future modern classrooms. The applicability of learning strategies for different learning skills may be extensively studied in future studies.
A Comparative Analysis of the Rating of College Students’ Essays by ChatGPT versus Human Raters
Authors: Jackaria Potchong M. , Hajan Bonjovi H. , Mastul Al-Rashiff H.
Published: March 2024

The use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in education has engendered mixed reactions due to its ability to generate human-like responses to questions. For education to benefit from this modern technology, there is a need to determine how such capability can be used to improve teaching and learning. Hence, using a comparative−descriptive research design, this study aimed to perform a comparative analysis between Chat Generative Pre-Trained Transformer (ChatGPT) version 3.5 and human raters in scoring students’ essays. Twenty essays were used of college students in a professional education course at the Mindanao State University – Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography, a public university in southern Philippines. The essays were rated independently by three human raters using a scoring rubric from Carrol and West (1989) as adapted by Tuyen et al. (2019). For the AI ratings, the essays were encoded and inputted into ChatGPT 3.5 using prompts and the rubric. The responses were then screenshotted and recorded along with the human ratings for statistical analysis. Using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), results show that among the human raters, the consistency was good, indicating the reliability of the rubric, while a moderate consistency was found in the ChatGPT 3.5 ratings. Comparison of the human and ChatGPT 3.5 ratings show poor consistency, implying the that the ratings of human raters and ChatGPT 3.5 were not linearly related. The finding implies that teachers should be cautious when using ChatGPT in rating students’ written works, suggesting further that using ChatGPT 3.5, in its current version, still needs human assistance to ensure the accuracy of its generated information. Rating of other types of student works using ChatGPT 3.5 or other generative AI tools may be investigated in future research.
Strengthening Caring Character Education for Prospective Nurses: An Action Research in Nursing Education
Authors: Aisyah Iis , Astuti Ayu Prameswari Kusuma , Ridwan Heri , Wulan Lindasari Sri , Handayani Dini Saraswati
Published: March 2024

Caring is an essential factor of a nurse's character. Therefore, it is necessary for nursing educational institutions to integrate caring values into their curriculum. This study investigated the process of formulating a structured approach to instil caring values as a foundational component of nursing education. To achieve the research objectives, action research was employed as research design by delineating three research stages. First, pre-action analysis was undertaken to map out the caring character problem; second, action implementation was carried out to implement actions to achieve what is desired, and third, action evaluation was done to assess all actions taken to achieve the desired goal. The study involved 30 nursing students from a prominent university in West Java Province, Indonesia. Data collection was carried out using survey techniques, observations and semi-structured interviews, while the data were analysed using two approaches, namely quantitative and qualitative. The findings resulted in a comprehensive framework consisting of seven stages for nurturing the caring character, encapsulated in the acronym "PELOPOR" (Promoting, Elaborating, Learning, Organizing, Project Learning, Observing, Reflecting). This study concludes that these seven stages have a significant impact on enhancing the caring character of aspiring nursing professionals. In addition, this study adds valuable insights to the creation of effective learning approaches for prospective nurses by focusing on the cultivation of a caring character. It suggests further investigations to extend the seven identified steps in this study towards crafting learning models applicable to various health professions.
South African Rural University Students’ Experiences of Open Distance E-Learning Support
Authors: Alpha Zwane Siyabonga , Kelebogile Mudau Patience
Published: March 2024

South Africa, like many developing countries, has rural areas which suffer from a scarcity of resources and tools required to enable open-distance e-learning. Universal approaches often sideline these communities and the like. The aim of this empirical study was to look at the experiences of rural online students with a lens of openness (widening access) to comprehend their experiences of online support in the Open Distance e-Learning support context. This study followed a descriptive and qualitative case study, which employed individual interviews. The study involved (15) rural participants from University of South Africa. Findings revealed that there were many challenges associated with online learning for rural students. However, the use of cell phones by participants to access online materials and connect to online classes helped widen access to this group of students faced with scarcity of resources and infrastructure. Participants preferred to use cell phones because cell phones easily connect to the internet when compared to computers because cell phones require less bandwidth connection. Additionally, cell phones build a sense of community amongst the participants through the social media platform. Accordingly, the students were enthusiastic and were motivated about working online in the Open Distance e-Learning (ODeL) environment. Therefore, cell phones have a potential to widen access for developing under-resourced communities. Hence, the study emphasises the importance of tailored online support programmes for diverse group of students for ODeL to be considered equivalent to traditional learning. Universities must not presume the culture of use and access for students without background considerations.
The Vision of Spanish Schools in Post-Pandemic Times
Authors: Palau Ramon , Santiago Raúl , Fretes Gabriela , Mogas Jordi , Cebrián Gisela
Published: March 2024

Extraordinary measures were required due to Covid-19, such as confinement and emergency distance education. With health regulations in place, the schools then returned to face-to-face instruction and used the lessons they had learned to improve the teaching standard. The study's intention is to investigate how Spain's schools are evolving post-confinement, with a particular interest in the digitalization of schools, teaching competence and future models of education. Method: The approach was qualitative; the instrument was a semi-structured interview, constructed ad hoc by experts and applied by trained interviewers. The sample consisted of 75 principals or members of management teams from primary and secondary schools in Spain. We carried data coding and analysis out using Atlas.ti software. Results: The confinement led to difficulties in adapting teaching to the online modality. Using the pandemic as a catalyst, schools were able to quickly move to digitalization, expand teacher training in digital technology with varying levels of compliance, and introduce new methodologies such as active learning strategies. Conclusions: Schools in Spain have introduced changes in their technological processes and equipment and slight methodological aspects. Teachers require more training on teaching skills, especially digital skills. Finally, the traditional face-to-face model is valued but is questioned and alternatives are considered.
Investigating Virtual Teaching Experiences: Perspectives of Undergraduate Student Teachers in Singing and Choral Techniques
Authors: Ngobeni Nyiko Condry
Published: March 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted a widespread shift toward virtual learning across various educational domains, significantly impacting music instruction. This qualitative study, conducted at a university in the Eastern Cape Province, delved into the experiences of third-year undergraduate music students enrolled in the "Singing and Choral Techniques" module. Guided by the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Constructivist Learning Theory, the research employed thematic analysis on in-depth interviews with 30 purposefully sampled students, revealing intricate dynamics related to technology, collaboration, student engagement, and motivational factors. Findings not only illuminate the challenges faced by students but also present innovative strategies aimed at elevating the quality of online teaching. Key motivational factors, including effective time management and interactive teaching methods, emerged as crucial elements for fostering meaningful online learning experiences. These insights are paramount for educators and policymakers, shaping the trajectory of online music education. The study emphasised the importance of strategic investments in technology, the creation of collaborative environments, targeted student support, and specialised training for educators. Policymakers can leverage these insights to formulate inclusive policies and initiatives that enhance the quality of virtual music education. Serving as a guiding compass for music education in the digital age, this research not only highlighted hurdles encountered but also unveiled innovative solutions, thus contributing significantly to the evolving landscape of online music education.
The Moderating of Technological Adoption on Financial Literacy and International Entrepreneur Intention
Authors: Abd Rashid I. M. , Faisal Syahril Iman , Mohd Nasir Najuwa , Wan Husain W. A. F. , Abd Razak Noraznira , Zainol Abidin N. , Abu Samah I. H.
Published: March 2024

Scholars have been and will likely remain interested in the study of entrepreneurial intention because of its importance to the development of numerous countries. The literature on entrepreneurial intention has addressed a wide range of subjects, with particular emphasis on the factors that influence entrepreneurial intention. However, the vast majority of these studies were conducted overseas. Since this topic always focuses on the agriculture sector when determining entrepreneurial purpose, the study targeted that industry. The purpose of this study is to examine the aspirations of young Malaysians to become international entrepreneurs. It especially aims to determine the relationship between each component of financial literacy (attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control) and technological adoption, as well as the effect of technological adoption on young people's ambitions to become international entrepreneurs. The study's conclusions demonstrated that financial literacy (attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control) and youth international entrepreneur intention were mediated by technology adoption. The study's findings contribute to the body of knowledge and support the executive branch and other decision-makers' creation of policies and programs. Doi: 10.28991/HEF-2024-05-01-05 Full Text: PDF
Estimate of Power Output from Hydraulic Jumps Generated Downstream from Barrages
Authors: El-Baradei Sherine Ahmed , El-Abd Mostafa , Hazem Nahla
Published: March 2024

Hydropower is an affordable, sustainable way to generate electricity. Research on hydraulic jumps focuses only on determining head loss across the jump, but there are no studies on generating power from the jump. This research aims to utilize energy dissipated from hydraulic jumps for power-generating purposes and further use this power in real-life applications. This research simulates ideal hydraulic conditions to identify the most stable hydraulic jumps, which will be used to generate power. The Seriakos barrage in Egypt was taken as a case study to simulate energy dissipated/power generated from hydraulic jumps generated downstream. This power is then used to simulate lighting up some streets in Egypt according to Egyptian power consumption standards. An Excel spreadsheet was used to mathematically model generated hydraulic jump types, energy dissipated, and generated power. The study found that submerged flow generates maximum power values from hydraulic jumps as opposed to free flow. The research concluded that energy produced by hydraulic jumps at the Seriakos barrage could light up 78 street light bulbs. Although this is a small amount of power, Egypt could meet a significant portion of its energy needs if hydraulic jumps from all its hydraulic structures were utilized for power generation. Doi: 10.28991/HEF-2024-05-01-06 Full Text: PDF
Enhancing Business Efficiency through Low-Code/No-Code Technology Adoption: Insights from an Extended UTAUT Model
Authors: Abdul Razak Siti Fatimah , Phey Ernn Yow , Yussoff Farah Izzati , Ali Bukar Umar , Yogarayan Sumendra
Published: March 2024

The growing need for new applications and software has driven developers to seek quick development options. As a result, the low-code/no-code technology platform emerges as a potential option, leading to the adoption of low-code and no-code technologies in enterprises becoming a focus of inquiry. This study aims to examine users' behavioral intentions toward the adoption of the low-code/no-code technology platform, considering the increasing need for new applications. The Extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model serves as the theoretical framework for understanding the factors influencing individuals’ intentions to adopt low-code or no-code technologies. The study focused on the five key components of the model: Performance Expectation (PE), Effort Expectation (EE), Social Influence (SI), Perceived Risk (PR), and Perceived Cost (PC). Based on the surveys and data analysis techniques, the findings show relationship between these five categories with an individual's Behavioral Intention (BI) to adopt low-code/no-code technologies. Furthermore, the analysis identifies the most significant BI construct. These findings are beneficial to businesses seeking to enhance efficiency and expedite application development processes in response to increasing digital demands. In general, this study contributes to the topic of technology adoption and improves our understanding of the practicality of the Extended UTAUT model. Doi: 10.28991/HEF-2024-05-01-07 Full Text: PDF
A Promising Functional Food for Diabetes Prevention, Antioxidation, and Anti-inflammation of Green Coffee Bean Extract
Authors: Duangjai Acharaporn , Rawangkan Anchalee , Siriphap Achiraya , Kiddee Anong , Yosboonruang Noppadon , Yosboonruang Atchariya
Published: March 2024

Functional foods and nutrition have become increasingly popular in preventing and reducing the incidence of diabetes. Green coffee bean extract (GCBE) has received much interest because of the evidence that coffee consumption reduces the risk of diabetes and many inflammatory diseases. This study was designed to investigate the phytochemicals contained in GCBE and their antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-inflammatory efficacies. GCBE phytochemicals were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). This analysis demonstrated that chlorogenic acid was the predominant component of GCBE, followed by caffeine and caffeic acid. The antioxidant capacity of GCBE was assessed using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2’-azinobis 3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) assays, demonstrating significant scavenging capacity with IC50 values of 2.96 ± 1.04 and 7.63 ± 1.03 µg/mL, respectively. The anti-hyperlipidemic efficacy of GCBE was observed through inhibiting cholesterol absorption (by increasing micelle sizes and decreasing cholesterol solubility), lipid digestion, and pancreatic lipase activity in vitro. The investigations revealed that GCBE possessed anti-hyperlipidemic properties by inhibiting cholesterol absorption, lipid digestion, and pancreatic lipase activity. Specifically, GCBE increased micelle particle sizes by ~6.5-fold, decreased cholesterol solubility by 2-fold, and reduced pancreatic lipase activity by 25%. Additionally, the in vitroanti-hyperglycemic activity of GCBE was evaluated by inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase capacity. GCBE demonstrated anti-hyperglycemic activity by inhibiting α-amylase activity (32.80 ± 7.06% inhibition), while α-glucosidase activity remained unaffected. The anti-inflammatory potential of GCBE was evaluated by mRNA regulation using RT-PCR analysis. This analysis revealed that GCBE attenuated mRNA expression of COX-2, TNF-α, IL-1b, and IL-6 in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells. GCBE’s antioxidant, anti-hyperlipidemic, and anti-hyperglycemic efficacies and its molecular mechanisms in modulating the inflammation pathway found in the present study highlight its potential as a supplement in functional foods or beverages. Doi: 10.28991/HEF-2024-05-01-08 Full Text: PDF
IMPACT OF MUSICAL APPEAL IN ADVERTISEMENT ON CONSUMER MINDSET
Authors: Patil Kunal , Tilak Geetali , Pawar Priyanka
Published: March 2024

This research investigates the profound impact of musical appeal in advertising on consumer perception and purchase behavior. Through a quantitative study involving 328 respondents, the study examines the influence of music in advertisements on brand perception and consumer purchasing decisions. The findings reveal a strong correlation between the presence of music in ads and enhanced brand perception, including brand image, credibility, and overall appeal. Moreover, the study underscores the significant influence of musical elements on consumers' inclination toward considering and making purchases related to advertised brands. The results suggest that strategically incorporating music in advertisements holds substantial potential to shape consumer perceptions and drive purchase behavior, emphasizing its role as a powerful tool in contemporary advertising strategies.
Use of GIS and RS Tools for Analysis of Land Use Land Cover and Land Surface Temperature: A Case Study of District Khairpur, Pakistan
Authors: Wassan Imam Bux , M. Munir Babar  , Ghulam Shabir Solangi
Published: March 2024

Land use and land cover (LULC) monitoring plays an important role in sustainable planning and management of resources. This research focuses on analysing historical LULC changes over the Khairpur district of Sindh province of Pakistan. Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System (RS & GIS) tools have been employed using the maximum likelihood algorithm of the supervised classification method. Temporal data of the latest high-resolution satellite imagery provided by NASA GLCF (Global Land Cover Facility), Landsat 8 Operational Land Imager (OLI), and Landsat 4, 5 Thematic Mapper (TM) for 2001, 2010, 2015, and 2020 were acquired from Earth Explorer of United States Geological Survey (USGS). The study area is classified into four major classes namely Barren Land, Vegetation, Built-up areas, and Water Bodies. Analysis revealed that for 2001 and 2005 there was no change in barren land area, whereas in 2010 slight decrease in barren land was found which further decreased for the analysis period of 2020, overall barren land class decreased at a rate of 07% (i.e., 74% to 67%) during the analysis period. Also, vegetation and water bodies classes experienced variations throughout the analysis period, however built-up areas showed constant increase throughout the analysis period where built-up area classes increased from 9% to 15%. Whereas land surface temperature (LST) throughout the analysis period showed increasing trends, for both high ranges and low ranges. It was analysed that the areas having dominancy of the barren land class experienced the highest temperature ranges whereas low temperature ranges were discernible in the areas having vegetation covers. It can be concluded from the study that barren land covers the major area of the study area and there is an increase in built-up areas which can further enhance the LST in the study area.
Water as a social determinant of health: bringing policies into action
Authors: Sheel Vikas , Kotwal Atul , Dumka Neha , Sharma Vineeta , Kumar Rajnesh , Tyagi Vidhi
Published: March 2024

Water is one of the social determinants of health and a key factor towards improving health outcomes and inequalities. Access to safe and adequate water has been identified as an essential component for protecting, maintaining and promoting public health and reducing the total burden of diseases. Though India has made substantial progress in increasing access to safe drinking water in rural areas through household tap connections, there is a lack of contemporary evidence reflecting the progress achieved so far. A desk review of India’s schemes, programmes, and policies on access to drinking water was undertaken for review. Programme and policy documents from various central government websites such as the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Jal Jeevan Mission, and Central Water Commission websites were reviewed. The paper focuses on the recently launched Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) in addressing the identified gaps of the former initiatives in rural areas. The broad vision of JJM also aims to reduce the incidence of acute diarrhoeal diseases. It was found that with the launch of JJM in 2019, tap water connections in rural households have increased from 16.69% (2019) to 62.79% (2023). The Government of India (GoI)’s commitment and citizen-centric approach to decentralised governance in providing safe drinking water to all is reflected in the financial allocations made under the JJM to states and fifteen finance commission (FC-XV) grants. The review highlights the need for intersectoral coordination across the levels to realise better results and health outcomes.
Gender lens review of adolescent health care services: a mixed methods study in Bangladesh
Authors: Haseen Fariha , Hedayet Hridi , Nazneen Shahana , Akter Nurjahan , Haney Umme , Chowdhury Md Sunyet Alam , Khan Md Saidur Rahman , Rahman AGM Mashuqur , Begum Nazma Siddika , Mahmud Mohd Shahdt Hossain , Islam Syed Shariful
Published: March 2024

Background

The application of a gender lens enables the identification of gendered power dynamics that are deeply embedded within structures and institutions. This study delved into a comprehensive analysis of gender norms of male and female adolescents in terms of their health needs, the type of health services offered to them, the barriers and facilitators for utilization of health services at the adolescent-friendly health services (AFHS) across different tiers of government health facilities through a gender lens.

Methods

The study was conducted at 23 health facilities across four districts of Bangladesh from February 2022 to June 2022. The study design was cross-sectional with a mixed methods approach. A total of 304 adolescents completed the survey, and 28 adolescents participated in in-depth interviews (IDI). Key-informant interviews (KII) were conducted with 48 key stakeholders, including parents, teachers, health service providers, facility managers, and health managers. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and qualitative data was analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

Adolescents have different needs for information about services, types of services provided, and use based on gender. There was a significant association between the marital status of adolescents and the need for different types of health services (P<0.05). Female adolescents receive tetanus-diphtheria (TD) vaccinations and iron folic acid (IFA) tablets, while male adolescents can receive them upon request. TD immunization is common among married female adolescents (14.9%) compared to unmarried female adolescents (11.8%) and unmarried male adolescents (1.1%). Unmarried female adolescents (36.1%) seek help more frequently for menstrual problems, while unmarried male adolescents (24%) are more likely to seek services related to puberty. Parents, teachers, and health service providers have different gendered perceptions of male and female adolescents’ health needs and use of health services. These perceptions contribute to understanding male and female adolescents’ utilization of services.

Conclusions

This study reveals that gender norms influence adolescents’ health needs, types, and utilization of services. This is probably due to differences in gendered perception of the critical stakeholders for adolescents, who sometimes face barriers in the utilization of health services at the facilities.
The education of gifted students in Greece and Europe and the use of ICT
Authors: Despina Dimitriadou  , Neslisah Emin  , Parthena- Marina Kiremitsidou  , Stavroula Mpouzelou
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this research is to study the education of gifted students in Greece and in various European countries and the role of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in the education of gifted students. This study is a literature review and for the writing of which were used articles from various platforms (Research Gate, google scholar etc.). The first part distinguishes giftedness from talent and also refers to the strategies to support gifted students (differentiated instruction, enrichment, grouping and concentration). While, the second part analyses the way of education of gifted students in Greece and in different European countries (e.g. Netherlands, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Slovakia etc.). Finally, the role of ICT in the education of gifted students is discussed.
Integrating IoT with Virtual Healthcare: A theoretical framework for enhancing accessibility and efficiency in the U.S. healthcare sector
Authors: Anthony Chigozie Anyanwu
Published: March 2024

This paper presents an open source platform aimed at revolutionizing healthcare delivery in the United States by significantly reducing the cost of virtual healthcare software. The proposed platform addresses the pressing challenges of accessibility and efficiency in the U.S. healthcare sector through cloud native backend solutions and mobile apps driven by modular design and IoT-enabled devices. By leveraging IoT technology, virtual healthcare platforms can provide real-time monitoring, remote consultations, and personalized care, thereby improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs. The platform emphasizes nationwide scalability, inclusivity, and a transition towards a proactive, patient-centric healthcare model. By leveraging the opensource community, modular design and a plugin architecture, it aims to enable feature extensibility beyond what is foreseeable today, promote interoperability, ensure data privacy and security, and promote technology adoption among healthcare providers and patients. The proposal presented in this paper lays the foundation for the implementation aimed at harnessing the full potential of IoT and virtual healthcare to enhance accessibility and efficiency in the U.S. healthcare sector, ultimately advancing the quality of care and well-being of the population.
Real-time data analytics in retail: A review of USA and global practices
Authors: Mustafa Ayobami Raji  , Hameedat Bukola Olodo  , Timothy Tolulope Oke  , Wilhelmina Afua Addy  , Onyeka Chrisanctus Ofodile  , Adedoyin Tolulope Oyewole
Published: March 2024

Real-time data analytics has emerged as a pivotal tool in the retail sector, revolutionizing decision-making processes and operational strategies. This study delves into the extensive landscape of real-time data analytics in retail, offering a comprehensive review of practices both in the USA and on a global scale. In the United States, retail giants have harnessed real-time data analytics to gain unprecedented insights into consumer behavior, preferences, and market trends. From personalized marketing campaigns to dynamic pricing strategies, retailers leverage real-time analytics to optimize inventory management and enhance the overall customer experience. The integration of technologies like RFID, IoT devices, and advanced analytics platforms has facilitated the seamless flow of data, enabling retailers to respond swiftly to changing market dynamics. On a global scale, diverse retail markets have embraced real-time data analytics to stay competitive in an ever-evolving landscape. Cross-border e-commerce and the proliferation of online marketplaces have intensified the need for real-time insights into global consumer trends. Retailers worldwide are adopting predictive analytics to forecast demand, reduce stockouts, and streamline supply chain operations. Moreover, the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms enhances the ability to analyze vast datasets, uncovering hidden patterns and predicting future market trends. Challenges such as data privacy concerns, integration complexities, and the need for skilled professionals are acknowledged in this review. Despite these challenges, the transformative impact of real-time data analytics on the retail sector is undeniable. As technology continues to advance, the synergy between real-time data analytics and retail practices is expected to deepen, fostering innovation and reshaping the industry's landscape. This study provides a glimpse into the dynamic and evolving realm of real-time data analytics in retail, offering insights into the strategies employed by both the USA and global players to thrive in an era of rapid technological change.
Assessment of density and specific gravity tests of some selected Ayurvedic medicinal plants
Authors: Umakant N. Rabb
Published: March 2024

The Guna(Static properties) in common terms known as properties or qualities. There are 41 Gunas in Ayurvedc classics. Among them the Gurvadi Gunas and Paradi Gunas are used in the various treatment measures. The Guru is known as heaviness. Gurutwa is correlated with Gravity in modern science. Parthiva and Apya Mahabhuta are responsible for this Guru Guna. The Guru drugs act as Brumhana(Nourishing as well as help to increase the mass of the tissues), Anuloman(Mild laxative). The exact opposite action of Guru drug is seen in Laghu Dravya. The Laghu drugs give Lightness to the body, as it is light in nature. The Akashiya, Vayavya, Agneya, Laghu Gunas are predominant in this drugs. These drugs act as Agnideepan(Appetizer), Strotoshodhan(Cleanses the channels). The more Parthiva Dravya, more the Guru can be considered. Less Parthiva Dravya more the Laghu can be considered. To assess the Parthivatwa by its correlation with Density and Specific gravity. Same can be considered for Jaliyatwa and Vayaviyatwa. Assessment of objective Parametric measures of Guru and Laghu Guna can be done by Density(Bulk), Specific Gravity(Liquid and solid). The Specific gravity, more formally known as relative density, is a measure of the density of a substance in comparison to the density of water. In this present research work there are 16 drugs for specific gravity for solids, 12 drugs for specific gravity for liquids, 20 drugs for Bulk density and the same 20 drugs for True density drugs have been selected.
Integrating pharmacogenomic testing into personalized medicine practices in the USA: Implications for medication quality control and therapeutic efficacy
Authors: James Tabat Bature  , Michael Alurame Eruaga  , Esther Oleiye Itua
Published: March 2024

This concept paper explores the integration of pharmacogenomic testing into personalized medicine practices in the USA and its implications for medication quality control and therapeutic efficacy. By leveraging genetic information to optimize medication selection and dosing, this paper aims to improve patient outcomes and minimize adverse drug reactions, thereby enhancing medication safety and efficacy in clinical practice. Integrating pharmacogenomic testing into personalized medicine practices has the potential to revolutionize healthcare by improving medication quality control and therapeutic efficacy. This concept paper explores the implications of pharmacogenomic testing for personalized medicine practices in the USA. The paper begins by discussing the current landscape of personalized medicine and the role of pharmacogenomic testing in optimizing medication selection and dosing. It then examines the benefits of integrating pharmacogenomic testing into clinical practice, including improved medication safety, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness. Key considerations for implementing pharmacogenomic testing in personalized medicine practices are discussed, including regulatory considerations, reimbursement challenges, and ethical considerations. The paper also highlights the importance of healthcare provider education and patient engagement in the successful implementation of pharmacogenomic testing. Through a comprehensive analysis, this concept paper aims to provide insights into the implications of integrating pharmacogenomic testing into personalized medicine practices in the USA. By leveraging pharmacogenomic testing, healthcare providers can personalize medication selection and dosing, leading to improved medication quality control and therapeutic efficacy for patients.
Nephrectomy of Multicystic Dysplastic left Kidney in an 18-year-old female: A case report and literature review at Sunyani Teaching Hospital (Ghana)
Authors: Egote AK  , Awuah E  , Cardinal N  , Egote AC
Published: March 2024

We herein present our patient with left MCDK, the associated symptoms were the left flank pain and left flank mass. Though conservative management is proven to have some favourable outcomes, a nephrectomy was done for our patient due to the increasing intensity of pain and abdominal mass which was affecting the patient’s quality of life. Left sub-costal extraperitoneal nephrectomy was performed successfully at the CJ Oppong theatre of Sunyani Teaching Hospital in Ghana which gave a new life full of joy to our patient. We, therefore, recommend nephrectomy for a patient with increasing symptoms that reduce quality of life and early childhood screening for MCDK.
A review of sustainable project management practices in modern LNG industry initiatives
Authors: Wags Numoipiri Digitemie  , Ifeanyi Onyedika Ekemezie
Published: March 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive review of sustainable project management practices within the modern LNG industry, aiming to analyze the strategies, challenges, and opportunities associated with sustainable development in LNG initiatives. The literature review encompasses an examination of sustainable project management principles, emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic viability in LNG projects. Case studies from various LNG initiatives worldwide are analyzed to identify best practices and frameworks for integrating sustainability into project management methodologies. These studies highlight innovative approaches such as carbon footprint reduction, community engagement programs, and economic diversification strategies, demonstrating the multifaceted nature of sustainable project management in the LNG sector. Methodologically, this review adopts a systematic approach, utilizing established criteria for selecting and analyzing relevant literature and case studies. Data collection methods include extensive literature searches and case study analysis to gather insights into the implementation and effectiveness of sustainable project management practices in the LNG industry. The findings reveal a growing trend towards the adoption of sustainable practices in LNG projects, driven by regulatory requirements, investor preferences, and stakeholder expectations. However, several challenges persist, including technological limitations, regulatory complexities, and cost implications. Nonetheless, these challenges present opportunities for innovation and collaboration, fostering the development of new technologies and strategies to enhance sustainability in LNG project management. In conclusion, this review underscores the importance of sustainable project management in the modern LNG industry, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to address environmental, social, and economic concerns while meeting energy demands. The insights provided offer valuable guidance for industry stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers seeking to advance sustainability objectives in LNG initiatives.