bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of elementary school teachers’ perspectives on stem implementation
Authors: Susanti Diah , Prasetyo Zuhdan Kun , Retnawati Heri
Published: January 2021

The approach of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) in Indonesia is a new thing in education. The actors in the world of education still continue to adapt to all changes and updates happened all the time. Yet, sometimes the changes are not supported by the improvement in teachers’ knowledge, skill, and readiness. This phenomenological research aims to analyze the elementary teachers' perspective in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) framework implementation in Indonesia. The research is phenomenological research focused on the elementary school teachers’ perspective on STEM implementation.  There are 35 teachers of public and private elementary schools with more than a year of service period in Yogyakarta, Indonesia was involved in this research. Data collection was conducted by the interview. The data collecting technique was analyzed with Bogdan and Biklen's analysis models. The analysis results were used to seek the information related to the following aspects: Teachers’ knowledge of STEM, benefits of STEM, steps of STEM implementation, assessment of STEM implementation, and teacher readiness to implement STEM. The results showed that the teachers’ knowledge in the STEM framework was still low and they were not ready to implement STEM for various reasons. This research is expected to be a reference for elementary schools and local government in socializing STEM and to support the STEM implementation in elementary schools.
Online learning and its problems in the Covid-19 emergency period
Authors: Hamid Rimba , Sentryo Izlan , Hasan Sakka
Published: January 2021

This study aims to obtain an in-depth overview of (1) the distribution of students at the Department of PGSD FKIP UHO based on domicile in implementing online learning during the Covid-19 period; (2) infrastructure support for the effectiveness of online learning in the Covid-19 period; and (3) students' perceptions about online learning conducted by lecturers of the Department of PGSD FKIP UHO during Covid-19. This research was conducted in May 2020, which was included in the descriptive study, by conducting a survey of students at the Department of PGSD FKIP UHO, which was spread across all districts/cities in Southeast Sulawesi and other regions. Data collection techniques using open and closed questionnaires, with the research subjects of the class of 2017, 2018 and 2019 students who filled 316 questionnaires online from the link sent. Data obtained from students in the form of qualitative and quantitative raw data collected online and converted in Excel format. The data was processed based on the focus of this study. Based on the results of the processed data, an in-depth descriptive quantitative and qualitative analysis is carried out. The results of the study showed that: (1) Students of the Department of PGSD FKIP UHO in the online learning process were concentrated in 3 main districts/cities, namely Kendari City, Muna Regency, and Konawe Selatan Regency; (2) The main supporting factors for the effectiveness of online learning in the Covid-19 period were the carrying capacity of network access and the ability of devices to access the internet; (3) Students perceive that the implementation of online learning during the Covid-19 period has not been fully effective.
The effects of contextual group guided discovery learning on students' mathematical understanding and reasoning
Authors: Arifin Slamet , Wahyudin Wahyudin , Herman Tatang
Published: January 2021

In this study, we examine the effect of contextual group guided discovery (CGGD) learning approach on students' mathematical understanding and reasoning. This study was conducted through a quasi-experimental method with a control group pre and post-test design. The participants of this study were two groups of 4th-grade students in Kuningan, Indonesia. Each group was comprised of 22 students (N=44). While the experimental group was conducting mathematics learning with the CGGD learning approach, the control group was conducting mathematics learning with problem-based learning (PBL). The data were collected through a test of students' mathematical understanding (TSMU) and a test of students' mathematical reasoning (TSMR) developed by researchers. The results showed that there were significant differences in the gain score of students' mathematical understanding (SMU) (U = 134.00, Z= -2.539, P = 0.011 < 0.05) and students' mathematical reasoning (SMR) (U = 139.500, Z= -2.412, P = 0.016 < 0.05) between the experimental and the control group . The gain score and post-test score of SMU and SMR on the experimental group that implemented the CGGD learning approach were significantly higher than the control group. Therefore, we conclude that the CGGD learning approach was proven influential to empower SMU and SMR.
Increasing social sciences learning achievement and activeness through course review horay model
Authors: Ufie Agustinus , Leuwol Ferdinand Solomon , Mainake Aprilia Beatrix
Published: January 2021

This study aims to increase the activeness and learning achievement of social sciences using the Course Review Horay learning model. The subjects in this research were the 4th grade students at SD Inpres 42 Ambon, with the total of 21 people. The method used in this research was Classroom Action Research, carried out in two cycles with four stages including plan, implementation, observation, and reflection. The data collection techniques used were observation, interviews, learning outcomes tests for each cycle, and documentation. Qualitative and quantitative analysis were used to analyze the data of this research. The research results indicated that there was enhancement in the students’ learning outcomes because of their seriousness and activeness in participating using the Course Review Horay learning approach. The Course Review Horay learning model is very well to use in the social sciences learning process since this model makes a festive learning atmosphere.
Implementation of group activity to solve academic Burnout elementary school students
Authors: Wangid Muhammad Nur , Purwanti Isti Yuni
Published: January 2021

Academic burnout in elementary school students is very important to note because in this elementary school all academic experience will be formed. Failure to experience education in elementary schools properly will have a wide and disparate impact on the lives of students. This study aims to reduce the academic burnout experienced by elementary school students. For this reason, collaborative action research is conducted between teachers and researchers. Collaborative research, since planning, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating, as well as reflection is carried out jointly between teachers and researchers. The study subjects were five low-grade students who showed symptoms of experiencing academic burnout. Application of group activities as actions in the form of three games for students, namely picture puzzles, serialized stories, and throwing balls. Observation and interview as the main technique in collecting data. Qualitative analysis is used to analyze the process and results of actions. The results showed that the application of group activities was effective in reducing the academic burnout of five research subjects. All students showed positive changes in behavior, no longer showing symptoms of emotional fatigue, depersonalization, and feelings of inferiority or inadequacy. Research implications and recommendations are discussed.
Developing a STEM-based students’ worksheet building material in elementary school Bandar Lampung City
Authors: Saputra Roni Agus , Herpratiwi Herpratiwi , Caswita Caswita
Published: January 2021

This study aims to produce students’ worksheet-based STEM building material in elementary schools Bandar Lampung City. This type of research is research and development (Research and Development/ R&D). The main steps in this research and development are (1) information gathering and preliminary research; (2) planning; (3) product development; (4) limited testing, and (5) final product revision. The population in this study was the fifth-grade educators of SD Negeri Langkapura District Korwil III. The sampling technique used was the purposive sampling technique. The research sample was 3 (three) fifth-grade teachers of SDN 3 Langkapura, SDN 2 Langkapura, and SDN 1 Langkapura. Data collection techniques using observation and questionnaires. The data analysis technique in this study was using qualitative descriptive analysis techniques. Based on the results of research and discussion, it can be concluded that the development of STEM-based LKPD building material in elementary schools Bandar Lampung City is very feasible to use in learning. This is based on the results of the validation of material experts at 92.75%, the results of the validation of design experts at 82.08%, and the results of the test to the teacher at 93.04%. This research is limited to the expert and practitioner test. It would be better if it was perfected in the effectiveness and attractiveness test.
Evaluative analysis of authentic thematic learning assessment at Indonesian Islamic primary school
Authors: Kadir Abdul , Hasri Kharis Sulaiman
Published: January 2021

While several research papers on authentic assessment have been extensively explored, few have addressed the evaluation of authentic assessments starting from the stages of planning, process/implementation, and outcome. To fill the research gap, the purpose of the present case study is to investigate the authentic evaluation of thematic learning enactment. To collect the data, observations, in-depth interviews, and documentation were conducted. The results of this study indicate that the teacher's comprehension of authentic assessment is generally good. However, several assessment techniques did not work as planned. Based on this, the enactment of authentic assessment is still in the poor category. Processing and reporting resulting from the type of assessment are executed according to procedures. However, some did not follow the assessment guidelines of the elementary school level's learning outcome assessment, especially the effective one.
travail de parole avec les enseignants :
Authors: Pirone Ilaria , Weber Jean-Marie
Published: January 2021

As experiências de pesquisa e formação acadêmica dos dois autores os levaram a observar uma nova forma de fadiga difusa entre os professores, que eles se propõem a pensar como um certo sintoma social. Esta proposta os leva a analisar este mal-estar como uma resposta subjetiva que dá uma leitura da escrita do vínculo social: R.I., Real, Imaginário. A leitura destas expressões de “mal-estar social” obriga a psicanálise a sair de uma posição antiética de conhecimento para continuar a fazer de sua prática um suporte que permita ao sujeito permanecer ligado a seu desejo. Este é o objetivo que os dois pesquisadores dão ao dispositivo de análise clínica das práticas profissionais apresentadas, e que foi construído para permitir uma recirculação da palavra entre os profissionais das profissões humanas, como um possível baluarte contra os riscos de “mélancolisation” do vínculo educativo.
ideal da excelência escolar e os conflitos vividos pelo aluno de classes populares1
Authors: Santos Luciana
Published: January 2021

Este artigo procura compreender o ideal da excelência escolar e a relação entre esse ideal e a história singular do estudante. Considera alguns conceitos da Psicanálise, sobretudo eu ideal, ideal do eu e supereu, para analisar os conflitos vividos pelos alunos diante das demandas idealizadas presentes em escolas de alto rendimento. Neste sentido, entre os esforços de adaptação ou a resistência aos modelos impostos, interessa-nos questionar a naturalização e o “peso” do ideal de excelência para a formação subjetiva do estudante de classes populares. Priorizamos a vivência daqueles que podem estar em posição inferiorizada, devido a um suposto distanciamento entre o capital cultural herdado da famíliae a cultura escolar. A partir da metodologia de levantamento bibliográfico, refletimos em torno da polissemia e da não consensualidade acerca do conceito de excelência escolar, de modo a ponderar como esse ideal contribui para promover uma espécie de vigilância social na escola. Por fim, consideramos a plasticidade da influência desses ideais, bem como acreditamos nos diferentes destinos subjetivos que podem ser dados à idealização escolar.
Linguística, psicanálise, educação e os falantes de uma língua de sinais
Authors: Burgarelli Cristóvão Giovani
Published: January 2021

Tomando como aporte teórico tanto o reconhecimento quanto a subversão a que Lacan promove a linguística saussureana, tomarei como objetivo, neste artigo, introduzir algumas questões que considero pertinentes para pensar a educação dos falantes de uma língua de sinais. Para dialogar com a linguística, vou dar atenção especial às elaborações de Jean-Claude Milner, em seu livro O amor da língua, e, para a questão mais específica da língua de sinais, vou recorrer ao livro Des mains pour parler, des yeux pour entendre: la voix et les enfants Sourds, de André Meynard. Proponho que, para avançar com as questões aqui apresentadas, deve-se privilegiar a elaboração lacaniana em torno de uma teoria da escrita,sinalizando para a afirmação de que a experiência educativa com os falantes de Libras não pode deixar de interrogar-se a respeito das condições de fala dos educandos nela envolvidos.
Frequência escolar na educação infantil:
Authors: Silva Maria Beatriz , Vieira Lívia
Published: January 2021

Em pesquisa realizada em 2016 e 2017, pretendeu-se conhecer os motivos, os fatores influenciadores e as justificativas da infrequência das crianças na educação infantil, na perspectiva das famílias e dos profissionais da educação no contexto de três Escolas Municipais de Educação Infantil da Secretaria de Educação de Belo Horizonte, MG, escolhidas conforme o Índice de Desenvolvimento Humano Municipal do bairro. Foram analisados os diários de classe das turmas e aplicados 233 questionários aos familiares, os quaistambém foram entrevistados juntamente com os profissionais da educação (diretoras, coordenadoras, docentes e técnica educacional). Constatou-se que o principal motivo da infrequência é o adoecimento da criança. Fatores impeditivos relacionados às condições de moradia, ao emprego, à constituição das famílias (chefiadas por mulheres, mães adolescentes) foram igualmente constatados, evidenciando que a infrequência escolar é maior entre crianças vivendo em situações de vulnerabilidade social.
Воздействие импульсного тлеющего разряда атмосферного давления на алюминиевые пленки нанометровой толщины
Authors: Емельянов О.А. , Плотников А.П. , Феклистов Е.Г.
Published: January 2021

The effect of a positive pulsed corona discharge on the thin-film cathode surface was studied in atmospheric pressure air gaps of 2–8 mm at voltages of 5–15 kV. Observed current pulses had the following parameters: repetition rate about 10-15 kHz, pulse duration of 300-500 ns, and amplitude of 10-20 mA. It was shown that at relatively low average currents of 20–50 μA, the discharge transforms into the glow one near the cathode. Due to the discharge channel radial contraction to micrometer scale, Joule heating of the formed cathode layer can lead to a temperature increase up to 1000 K and cause local erosion of the cathode surface. This mechanism should be taken into account when analyzing the interaction of discharge plasma with biological objects.
Электронно-пучковая кристаллизация тонких пленок аморфного субоксида кремния
Authors: Баранов Е.А. , Константинов В.О. , Щукин В.Г. , Замчий А.О. , Меркулова И.Е. , Лунёв Н.А. , Володин В.А.
Published: January 2021

Polycrystalline silicon (poly-Si) has been obtained for the first time as a result of an electron beam irradiation of amorphous hydrogenated silicon suboxide films with a stoichiometric coefficient of 0.5 (a-SiO0.5:H) and a thickness of 580 nm. The accelerating voltage of the electron beam was 2000 V, and the beam current was 100 mA. Raman spectra of silicon films after annealing are obtained depending on the time of electron beam irradiation of the initial material. It is shown that as a result of annealing, poly-Si is formed, the stress in which varied from compression to tension depending on the time of exposure.
Экспериментальное исследование самоорганизующегося акустического канала связи
Authors: Невзоров А.А. , Перченко С.В. , Станкевич Д.А.
Published: January 2021

This paper presents the results of an experimental study of the adaptive communication system with phase separation. Adaptation is carried out by methods of machine learning and consists in transmitters phases regulation. An acoustic waveguide with a tunable metasurface is used as a propagation medium. In the case of multi-beam propagation and the presence of significant inter-symbol interference the transmission rate of 1 kbit/s was achieved. The adaptation time of the investigated system to sudden changes in the channel parameters does not exceed 10 cycles of training, even in case of significant fading.
Солнечные элементы на основе сложных оксидов
Authors: Козлов С.С. , Ларина Л.Л. , Никольская А.Б. , Альмяшева О.В. , Проскурина О.В. , Шевалеевский О.И.
Published: January 2021

Представлены результаты разработки новых неорганических перовскитных солнечных элементов с фотоактивным слоем на основе ортоферрита висмута (BiFeO3) со структурой перовскита и фотоэлектродом на основе оксида циркония (ZrO2). Исследовано поведение оптических и фотовольтаических характеристик перовскитных солнечных элементов в условиях как стандартного (AM1.5G), так и изменяемого в пределах 20-1000 W/m2 освещения. Показана высокая долговременная стабильность параметров полученных перовскитных солнечных элементов в воздушной атмосфере при повышенной влажности. Ключевые слова: перовскит, солнечный элемент, ортоферрит висмута, оксид циркония, допирование.
Моделирование реакции низкобарьерного диода Мотта на воздействие тяжелых заряженных частиц космического пространства
Authors: Пузанов А.С. , Бибикова В.В. , Забавичев И.Ю. , Оболенская Е.С. , Тарасова Е.А. , Востоков Н.В. , Оболенский С.В.
Published: January 2021

A theoretical analysis of transient ionization processes occurring in a low-barrier GaAs Mott diode under the influence of space radiation high energy charged particles and simulating pulsed laser radiation is carried out. The diode response to the As+ ion action with an energy of 200 MeV, corresponding to a linear energy transfer of 26 MeV cm2/mg, is compared with the response to the femtosecond pulses optical radiation action of various durations (10-1000 fs) and photon energies exceeding the GaAs band gap.
Predicted Influences of Artificial Intelligence on Nursing Education: Scoping Review
Authors: Buchanan Christine , Howitt M Lyndsay , Wilson Rita , Booth Richard G , Risling Tracie , Bamford Megan
Published: January 2021

Background

It is predicted that artificial intelligence (AI) will transform nursing across all domains of nursing practice, including administration, clinical care, education, policy, and research. Increasingly, researchers are exploring the potential influences of AI health technologies (AIHTs) on nursing in general and on nursing education more specifically. However, little emphasis has been placed on synthesizing this body of literature.

Objective

A scoping review was conducted to summarize the current and predicted influences of AIHTs on nursing education over the next 10 years and beyond.

Methods

This scoping review followed a previously published protocol from April 2020. Using an established scoping review methodology, the databases of MEDLINE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Embase, PsycINFO, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central, Education Resources Information Centre, Scopus, Web of Science, and Proquest were searched. In addition to the use of these electronic databases, a targeted website search was performed to access relevant grey literature. Abstracts and full-text studies were independently screened by two reviewers using prespecified inclusion and exclusion criteria. Included literature focused on nursing education and digital health technologies that incorporate AI. Data were charted using a structured form and narratively summarized into categories.

Results

A total of 27 articles were identified (20 expository papers, six studies with quantitative or prototyping methods, and one qualitative study). The population included nurses, nurse educators, and nursing students at the entry-to-practice, undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. A variety of AIHTs were discussed, including virtual avatar apps, smart homes, predictive analytics, virtual or augmented reality, and robots. The two key categories derived from the literature were (1) influences of AI on nursing education in academic institutions and (2) influences of AI on nursing education in clinical practice.

Conclusions

Curricular reform is urgently needed within nursing education programs in academic institutions and clinical practice settings to prepare nurses and nursing students to practice safely and efficiently in the age of AI. Additionally, nurse educators need to adopt new and evolving pedagogies that incorporate AI to better support students at all levels of education. Finally, nursing students and practicing nurses must be equipped with the requisite knowledge and skills to effectively assess AIHTs and safely integrate those deemed appropriate to support person-centered compassionate nursing care in practice settings.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

RR2-10.2196/17490
The relationship between social phobia and internet addiction in adolescents (Preprint)
Authors: Saglan Ramazan , Fidan Tulin , Onsuz Muhammed Fatih , Metintas Selma
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Adolescence is a risky stage for internet addiction and social phobia. Internet addiction is a major public health problem, especially among adolescents.

OBJECTIVE

The study was conducted to determine the frequency of internet addiction and social phobia, to evaluate the relationship between them among high school students in Eskişehir.

METHODS

The study is a cross-sectional study conducted on high school students studying in Eskişehir during the 2017-2018 academic year. In the study, two stage cluster sampling method was used according to settlement units and school types. The study group consisted of 3353 students who are found in selected schools for sampling and agreed to participate in the study. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the independent variables associated with social phobia and internet addiction.

RESULTS

In the study, the prevalence rates of internet addiction, social phobia, internet addiction and social phobia among the students was 13.8%, 8.7% and 2.7% respectively. Logistic regression analysis shows that internet addiction can be predicted by family type, tool for connecting to internet, age of first internet use, time to access the internet after waking up in the morning, total duration of internet use, self-limitation on the use of the internet and social phobia.

CONCLUSIONS

Internet addiction and social phobia are important health problems which are found to be related to each other in adolescents. Prevention and intervention studies should be planned about social phobia and internet addiction.

CLINICALTRIAL

80558721/G-312
Clinical Efficacy and Psychological Mechanisms of an App-Based Digital Therapeutic for Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Roy Alexandra , Hoge Elizabeth A , Abrante Pablo , Druker Susan , Liu Tao , Brewer Judson A
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Current treatments for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) often yield suboptimal outcomes, partly because of insufficient targeting of underlying psychological mechanisms (eg, avoidance reinforcement learning). Mindfulness training (MT) has shown efficacy for anxiety; yet, widespread adoption has been limited, partly because of the difficulty in scaling in-person–based delivery. Digital therapeutics are emerging as potentially viable treatments; however, very few have been empirically validated.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to test the efficacy and mechanism of an app-delivered MT that was designed to target a potential mechanism of anxiety (reinforcement learning), based on which previous studies have shown concern regarding feedback and the perpetuation of anxiety through negative reinforcement.

METHODS

Individuals with GAD were recruited using social media advertisements and randomized during an in-person visit to receive treatment as usual (n=33) or treatment as usual+app−delivered MT (Unwinding Anxiety; n=32). The latter was composed of 30 modules to be completed over a 2-month period. Associated changes in outcomes were assessed using self-report questionnaires 1 and 2 months after treatment initiation.

RESULTS

We randomized 65 participants in this study, and a modified intent-to-treat approach was used for analysis. The median number of modules completed by the MT group was 25.5 (IQR 17) out of 30; 46% (13/28) of the participants completed the program. In addition, the MT group demonstrated a significant reduction in anxiety (GAD-7) compared with the control group at 2 months (67% vs 14%; median change in GAD-7: –8.5 [IQR 6.5] vs –1.0 [IQR 5.0]; P<.001; 95% CI 6-10). Increases in mindfulness at 1 month (nonreactivity subscale) mediated decreases in worry at 2 months (Penn State Worry Questionnaire; P=.02) and decreases in worry at 1 month mediated reductions in anxiety at 2 months (P=.03).

CONCLUSIONS

To our knowledge, this is the first report on the efficacy and mechanism of an app-delivered MT for GAD. These findings demonstrate the clinical efficacy of MT as a digital therapeutic for individuals with anxiety (number needed to treat=1.6). These results also link recent advances in our mechanistic understanding of anxiety with treatment development, showing that app-delivered MT targets key reinforcement learning pathways, resulting in tangible, clinically meaningful reductions in worry and anxiety. Evidence-based, mechanistically targeted digital therapeutics have the potential to improve health at a population level at a low cost.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03683472; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03683472
Automated Interactive Patient History-Taking System: A Review (Preprint)
Authors: Anand Sunaina , Desai Anish , Mathew Sunitha
Published: January 2021

UNSTRUCTURED

The process of history-taking has been challenging for India due to its booming population and severe scarcity of doctors. Inadequate patient history could lead to medication errors, adverse drug reactions and medication non-compliance. Innovations in health information technology (HIT) have great potential for improving the practice of medicine. An automated patient history is collected with the help of a computer. Physicians can use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to help with documentation, analysis of patient data while increasing precision, productivity, and efficacy of the physician. Healthcare providers are looking for regulatory compliant and efficient software for automated patient history taking. In telemedicine, automated history taking before consultation can save physician`s time, have more accurate history which will improve telemedicine experience for the patient especially in times of a pandemic like Coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
Evaluating prediction of continuous clinical values: a glucose case study (Preprint)
Authors: Hripcsak George , Albers David J
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Background: It would be useful to be able to assess the utility of predictive models of continuous values before clinical trials are carried out.

OBJECTIVE

Objective: To compare metrics to assess the potential clinical utility of models that produce continuous value forecasts.

METHODS

Methods: We ran a set of data assimilation forecast algorithms on time series of glucose measurements from intensive care unit patients. We evaluated the forecasts using four sets of metrics: glucose root mean square error, a set of metrics on a transformed glucose value, the estimated effect on clinical care based on an insulin guideline, and a glucose measurement error grid (Parkes grid). We assessed correlation among the metrics and created a set of factor models.

RESULTS

Results: The metrics generally correlated with each other, but those that estimated the effect on clinical care correlated with the others the least and were generally associated with their own independent factors. The other metrics appeared to separate into those that emphasized errors in low glucose versus errors in high glucose. The Parkes grid was well correlated with the transformed glucose but not the estimation of clinical care.

CONCLUSIONS

Discussion: Our results indicate that we need to be careful before we assume that commonly used metrics like RMS error in raw glucose or even metrics like the Parkes grid that are designed to measure importance of differences will correlate well with actual effect on clinical care processes. A combination of metrics appeared to explain the most variance between cases. As prediction algorithms move into practice, it will be important to measure actual effects.
Improving Diabetes Self-management by Providing Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Treatment to Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Type 2 Diabetes: Qualitative Exploratory Interview Study (Preprint)
Authors: Laursen Ditte Hjorth , Rom Gitte , Banghøj Anne Margareta , Tarnow Lise , Schou Lone
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

There is a high prevalence of unexplained and unexplored obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) among patients with type 2 diabetes. The daytime symptoms of OSA include severe fatigue, cognitive problems, a decreased quality of life, and the reduced motivation to perform self-care. These symptoms impair the management of both diabetes and daily life. OSA may therefore have negative implications for diabetes self-management. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is used to treat OSA. This treatment improves sleep quality, insulin resistance, and glycemic control. Although the benefits of using CPAP as a treatment for OSA are clear, the noncompliance rate is high, and the evidence for the perceived effect that CPAP treatment has on patients with type 2 diabetes and OSA is poor.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to analyze the impacts that comorbid diabetes and OSA have on the daily lives of older adults and to investigate the perceived effect that CPAP treatment for OSA has on patients’ diabetes self-management.

METHODS

A qualitative follow-up study that involved in-depth, semistructured dyad interviews with couples before and after CPAP treatment (N=22) was conducted. Patients were recruited from the Hilleroed Hospital in Denmark and were all diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, aged >18 years, and had an apnea-hypopnea index of ≥15. All interviews were coded and analyzed via thematic analysis.

RESULTS

The results showed that patients and their partners did not consider OSA to be a serious disorder, as they believed that OSA symptoms were similar to those of the process of aging. Patients experienced poor nocturnal sleep, took frequent daytime naps, exhibited reduced cognitive function, and had low levels of physical activity and a high-calorie diet. These factors negatively influenced their diabetes self-management. Despite the immediate benefit of CPAP treatment, most patients (11/12, 92%) faced technical challenges when using the CPAP device. Only the patients with severe OSA symptoms that affected their daily lives overcame the challenges of using the CPAP device and thereby improved their diabetes self-management. Patients with less severe symptoms rated CPAP-related challenges as more burdensome than their symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

If used correctly, CPAP has the potential to significantly improve OSA, resulting in better sleep quality; improved physical activity; improved diet; and, in the end, better diabetes self-management. However, there are many barriers to undergoing CPAP treatment, and only few patients manage to overcome these barriers and comply with correct treatment.
An Acute Stress Scale for Health Care Professionals Caring for Patients With COVID-19: Validation Study (Preprint)
Authors: Mira Jose Joaquin , Cobos Angel , Martínez García Olga , Bueno Domínguez María José , Astier-Peña María Pilar , Pérez Pérez Pastora , Carrillo Irene , Guilabert Mercedes , Perez-Jover Virtudes , Fernandez Cesar , Vicente María Asuncion , Lahera-Martin Matilde , Silvestre Busto Carmen , Lorenzo Martínez Susana , Sanchez Martinez Ascension , Martin-Delgado Jimmy , Mula Aurora , Marco-Gomez Barbara , Abad Bouzan Cristina , Aibar-Remon Carlos , Aranaz-Andres Jesus ,   SARS-CoV-2 Second Victims Working Group
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the response capacity of the health care workforce, and health care professionals have been experiencing acute stress reactions since the beginning of the pandemic. In Spain, the first wave was particularly severe among the population and health care professionals, many of whom were infected. These professionals required initial psychological supports that were gradual and in line with their conditions.

OBJECTIVE

In the early days of the pandemic in Spain (March 2020), this study aimed to design and validate a scale to measure acute stress experienced by the health care workforce during the care of patients with COVID-19: the Self-applied Acute Stress Scale (EASE).

METHODS

Item development, scale development, and scale evaluation were considered. Qualitative research was conducted to produce the initial pool of items, assure their legibility, and assess the validity of the content. Internal consistency was calculated using Cronbach α and McDonald ω. Confirmatory factor analysis and the Mann-Whitney-Wilcoxon test were used to assess construct validity. Linear regression was applied to assess criterion validity. Back-translation methodology was used to translate the scale into Portuguese and English.

RESULTS

A total of 228 health professionals from the Spanish public health system responded to the 10 items of the EASE scale. Internal consistency was .87 (McDonald ω). Goodness-of-fit indices confirmed a two-factor structure, explaining 55% of the variance. As expected, the highest level of stress was found among professionals working in health services where a higher number of deaths from COVID-19 occurred (P<.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The EASE scale was shown to have adequate metric properties regarding consistency and construct validity. The EASE scale could be used to determine the levels of acute stress among the health care workforce in order to give them proportional support according to their needs during emergency conditions, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Post COVID-19 Pandemic International Travel: Does Risk Perception and Stress-Level Affect Future Travel Intention?
Authors: Febri Falahuddin Ahmad , Teroviel Tergu Clare , Brollo Rachele , Oktri Nanda Ratih
Published: January 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has extremely affected several industries including international travel and tourism. Many scholars have tried to describe the cause-effects of this major phenomenon. This study majorly aims to explore the relationship between risk perception and travel intention where stress level prone to COVID-19 quarantine serves as a moderating factor. The researchers believed that the influence of the dimensions of risk perception including social risk, psychological risk, physical risk, performance risk, financial risk and time risk on travel intention will be significant when the variable of stress level intervenes. This paper used a quantitative approach involving 409 respondents around the world. The data were gathered via online questionnaires facilitated by Google form and Wenjuanxing. The respective questionnaires were available in five languages (Chinese, English, Italian, French and Indonesian). Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. The outcome of the hierarchical multiple regression (HMR) test resulted in a positive connection between all independent variables and travel intention simultaneously but not partially. The uppermost influence was found in social risk. Meanwhile, financial risk and time risk indicate no significant relationship. Lastly, the researchers believe that understanding the relationships between the variables of this study would be beneficial for the DMOs to predict the future market and rearrange strategies after being affected by the pandemic.
Existence and uniqueness of positive solutions for nonlinear Caputo-Hadamard fractional differential equations
Authors: Ardjouni Abdelouaheb
Published: January 2021

We prove the existence and uniqueness of a positive solution of nonlinear Caputo-Hadamard fractional differential equations. In the process we employ the Schauder and Banach fixed point theorems and the method of upper and lower solutions to show the existence and uniqueness of a positive solution. Finally, an example is given to illustrate our results.
Propiedades ópticas y mecánicas de biopelículas activas elaboradas con micr opartículas de citral
Authors:   Facultad de Ingeniería Zootecnista, Agronegocios y Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Toribio Rodríguez de Mendoza de Amazonas. Chachapoyas, Perú, Yoplac Ives , Córdova Patricio ,   Facultad de Educación y Ciencias de la Comunicación, Universidad Nacional Toribio Rodríguez de Mendoza de Amazonas. Chachapoyas, Perú., Vargas Luis ,   Facultad de Industrias Alimentarias, Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina. Lima, Perú.
Published: January 2021

Se estudió el efecto de la relación caseinato de sodio: sorbitol (CS:Sb) y la relación CS: micropartícula de citral (CS:MC), en las propiedades ópticas y mecánicas de biopelículas activas. Se siguió la aplicación de un arreglo factorial 3x3 con tres relaciones de CS:Sb (1:0,5; 1:1,0 y 1:1,5) y tres relaciones de CS:MC (1:0,5; 1:1,0 y 1:1,5). Se elaboraron mediante el método de casting, vertiendo la solución de formulación en placas de Petri y secando 24 horas a 25,0±0,5 °C y 55,0±2,0% de humedad relativa. Se evaluaron las propiedades ópticas y mecánicas. Todas las variables evaluadas mostraron diferencias significativas en la interacción de factores y entre los niveles de factores. Se obtuvieron biopelículas entre 121 y 192 μm de espesor. El incremento significativo del espesor tuvo relación directa con el aumento de las relaciones CS:Sb y CS:MC. Se observó que los mejores resultados, con respecto a las propiedades ópticas de las biopelículas activas, fueron encontrados para formulaciones con menores niveles de relación CS:Sb y CS:MC, obteniendo menor diferencia de color (7,6), menor opacidad (14,8%) y menor valor de transparencia (1,4 A600/mm). Respecto a las propiedades mecánicas de las biopelículas, los mejores resultados se encontraron para formulaciones con altas concentraciones de sorbitol y bajas concentraciones de MC, observándose mayor deformación (63%) y menor resistencia a la tracción (1,9 MPa).
Caracterización preliminar de la ceniza de cáscara de arroz de la provincia Manabí, Ecuador, para su empleo en hormigones
Authors:   Laboratorio de Hormigones, Universidad Técnica de Manabí (UTM), Ecuador, CP, Jarre Castro César M. , Puig Martínez René Antonio ,   Centro de Estudios de la Construcción y Arquitectura Tropical (CECAT), Facultad de Ingeniería Civil, Universidad Tecnológica de La Habana, Zamora-Ledezma Camilo ,   School of Physical Sciences and Nanotechnology, Yachay Tech University, San Miguel de Urcuquí, Ecuador, Zamora-Ledezma Ezequiel ,   Facultad de Ingeniería Agrícola, Universidad Técnica de Manabí (UTM), Ecuador
Published: January 2021

Este artículo se describen las potencialidades de la ceniza proveniente de la quema controlada de la cáscara de arroz en la provincia de Manabí (Ecuador), como sustituto del cemento Portland empleado en hormigones, incluyendo la elección y preparación de muestras representativas de cáscara de arroz, caracterización cuantitativa y cualitativa de la cáscara, procedimiento de quema y caracterización de la ceniza resultante. Se evalúan los procedimientos empleados en la caracterización de la cáscara de arroz, demostrando la pertinencia de utilizar el ensayo de absorción nuclear, para determinar el porcentaje en peso de sílice en la masa de la muestra, y se caracteriza la ceniza obtenida de la quema a diferentes temperaturas y tiempos, mediante procedimientos de fluorescencia y difracción de rayos X.
The Social Imaginary of Ruination: Psychoanalytic Reflections on Disaster Mediation
Authors: Vanderwees Chris
Published: January 2021

Background Although the popularity of ruins has accompanied Western modernity in waves since the eighteenth century, the post-9/11 decade marks a notable resurgence of the imagery, aesthetics, and rhetoric of ruins, especially in American culture. This article was completed a few months prior to the global COVID-19 crisis.

Analysis While many scholars dismiss contemporary forms of ruin gazing as a mindless fascination with disaster and destruction in its virtual circulation, the author contends that this contemporary imaginary has significant political and social implications.

Conclusion and implications Although each geographic site of ruination has its own social, political, and historical specificity, the author draws from Cornelius Castoriadis’ psychosocial extension of Lacanian theory to designate a broader iconographic and discursive trend in American culture whereby the imagery and rhetoric of destruction contributes to what he calls the “social imaginary of ruination.”
Influence of basic soil tillage methods on fresh yield and quality of winter rape cultivars
Authors: Gadzhikurbanov Anvar Sh.
Published: January 2021

The development of rational system of basic soil tillage results in formation of sufficiently high crop yields. A two-factor field experiment was carried out to address these issues when cultivating winter rape cultivars on light chestnut soils of the Primorsko-Caspian sub-province of the Republic of Dagestan. VEM (standard), Elvis and Meteor winter rape cultivars were studied in the experiment. The following methods of soil tillage were studied: real tillage (control), subsoil tillage. The research revealed that there was no significant difference in agrophysical indicators between the soil cultivation variants. Data on weed infestation of winter rape fields showed that the number of weeds and their weight increased significantly after subsoil tillage. At the budding stage, the number of weeds increased 2.1-fold compared to the control (real tillage), and the weight of weeds increased 1.88-fold. During flowering stage, these indicators were 2.2 times higher. The maximum yield in all variants of the experiment was formed by Elvis cultivar - 44.9 and 41.4 t/ha, respectively, which is more than VEM (standard) and Meteor cultivars by 20.4 t/ha (7.9 %) and 20.0 t/ha (8.7 %), respectively. The yield of Meteor cultivar in these variants was also high and amounted to 41.6 and 38.1 t/ha, respectively, which was higher by 11.5 and 10.4 % compared with the standard. The greatest increase in the fresh yield was provided by real tillage. On average, the yield increased by 8.7 % for varieties in comparison with subsoil cultivation. Elvis cultivar formed the best quality indicators, followed by Meteor cultivar.
Specifics of long-term dynamics of terrestrial water storage detected using GRACE satellite in Belgorod region
Authors: Savin Igor Yu. , Gabdullin Bakhytnur S.
Published: January 2021

GRACE monthly satellite data for the period from 2002 to 2016 were used to analyze the longterm dynamics of the terrestrial water storage in the Belgorod region of Russia. The correlation of satellite data with climatic water balance with a lag varying on the territory from 2 to 4 months was revealed. There was found a stable tendency to decrease in terrestrial water storage, and predominance of negative values on the territory of the Belgorod region since 2008. The minimum attains the lowest values in comparison with the whole studied period. However, seasonality of the changes is maintained throughout the entire analyzed time series. The frequency of changes in the terrestrial water storage throughout the entire area is not very clear: only the long-term maximum of the terrestrial water storage of the territory in 2006 is well expressed. Another, less pronounced local maximum was observed in 2013. Local long-term minima of the terrestrial water storage of the territory were in 2002, 2009 and 2015. There is a positive trend in the amplitude of seasonal fluctuations in the terrestrial water storage of the territory: the amplitude has been constantly increasing in recent years. The territory of the Belgorod region has negative long-term trend of terrestrial water storage with their rather large spatial variation. The angle of inclination of the trend decreases from north-west to south-east in the region. GRACE satellite data can serve as a fairly reliable detection indicator of the trend of terrestrial water storage in large areas.
Implementasi Model Peta Konsep dalam Peningkatan Kemampuan Bercerita Siswa SDN 69 Kota Banda Aceh
Authors: Mustafa Mustafa
Published: January 2021

Implementing the concept map learning model is one of the efforts to improve the ability of grade fives tudents in telling the Prophets stories at SDN (public elementary school) 69 in Banda Aceh. In this study, the concerns were on the teacher’s activity in the implementation of the concept map learning model, the students’ activity in the concept map learning model, and the improvement of the students' story telling skills within the concept map learning model. The subject of this study was the improvement of storytelling skills by using the concept map model. This study employed a three-cycle classroom action research, in which each cycle consisted of planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. Data were collected by oral test and observation, and analyzed quantitatively.The results of the study showed that there was an increase in the students’ storytelling test results, including prior to the intervention, and in all three cycles. The classical average score reached 60.62 in cycle I,63.87 incycle II, and increased to 75.87 in cycle III. The results achieved in cycle III have fulfilled the average score target of 73, meaning that thestudents’ ability in telling story had improved after using the concept map model. This improvement also suggested that the concept map learning model was successful, as it was further reflected by the increase of the teacher’s and the students’ activities. Theobservation results revealed that the teacher’s activity in cycle I was 67.5%, rose to 75% in cycleII, and to 92.5% in cycle III. In terms of the students’ activity, in cycle I the proportion was 59.37%, and then rose respectively to 74.47% in cycle II, and 85.97% in cycle III.