bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Supervisi Manajerial Pengawas Terhadap Kinerja Kepala Madrasah dalam Melaksanakan Tugas Supervisi Pada Madrasah Aliyah di Kabupaten Kuningan
Authors: Rahmat Andi
Published: August 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk  mengetahui pengaruh supervisi manajerial pengawas terhadap kinerja kepala madrasahdalam melaksanakan supervisi kepada guru di MA kabupaten kuningan. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan di Madrasah Aliyah Kabupaten Kuningan yang berjumlah 30 Madrasah Aliyah dengan rincian Madrasah Aliyah Swasta sebanyak 27  madrasah dan Madrasah Aliyah Negeri sebanyak 3  madrasah Penelitian ini akan menggunakan teknik analisis data yaitu dengan analisis regresi lineier sederhana. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukan bahwa supervisi manajerial pengawas dapat berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap kinerja kepala madrasahdalam melaksanakan tugas supervisi di Madrasah Aliyah Kabupaten Kuningan. Saran yang dapat diberikan yaitu hasil penelitian ini dapat dijadikan informasi bagi guru, kepala  madrasah, Pengawas Madrasah, Kantor Kementerian Agama dan pihak terkait lainnya tentang faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi kinerja kepala madrasah dalam melaksanakan tugas supervisi, sehingga supervisi manajerial pengawas sebagai faktor penentu kinerja kepala madrasahdalam melaksanakan supervisi di Madrasah Aliyah Kabupaten Kuningan dapat dimaksimalkan. Selain itu untuk melaksanakan tugas dengan sebaik-baiknya, maka pengawas madrasah tentu harus menguasai dan melaksanakan setiap tahapan dalam supervisi manajerial secara teratur dan berkesinambungan sehingga dapat membantu kepala madrasah dalam menyelesaikan setiap masalah yang dihadapi dalam melaksanakan tugas dan fungsinya sebagai kepala madrasah
Peningkatan Hasil Belajar Siswa Mata Pelajaran Akidah Akhlak Melalui Metode Resitasi di Mts Raudlatut Tholabah
Authors: Wahyuni Siti
Published: August 2023

Abstrak: Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan nilai belajar pada siswa di Mts Raudlatutu Tholabah dengan menggunakan metode resitasi. Penelitian tindakan kelas ini agar siswa bisa mendapat nilai. Maka dibutuhkanlah solusi untuk memecahkan masalah tersebut, untuk memudahkan agar mereka bisa meningkat, menguasai materi , dengan adanya metode yang efektif digunakan. Salah satu metode yang digunakan adalah metode resitasi . jenis pada penelitian ini adalah penelitian tindakan kelas, yang mana menggunaka siklus beberapa tahap,, seperti, perencanaan tindakan, pelaksanaak tindakan, observassi dan juga rfleksi

 

 

Abstract:

This study aims to improve the value of learning in students at Mts Raudlatutu Tholabah by using the method of recitation. Research these class actions so that students can score. Then a solution is needed to solve the problem, to make it easier for them to improve, master the material , in the presence of which effective methods are used. One of the methods used is the recitation method . this type of research is a class action research, which uses a cycle of several stages, such as, action planning, action implementation, observation and also flexibility.
Strategi Meningkatkan Pemahaman dan Keamanan Penggunaan Junio Smart di Sekolah
Authors: Sihotang Lidia , Hudi Ilham
Published: August 2023

Universitas Muhammadiyah Riau melaksanakan kegiatan magang yang merupakan program Kampus Merdeka dilaksanakan di Kantor Cabang Pekanbaru Sudirman selama kurang lebih dua setengah bulan. Berasarkan hasil observasi selama pelaksanaan kegiatan disimpulkan bahwa PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk melakukan terobosan dengan mengeluarkan aplikasi Junio Smart dimana merupakan satu-satunya platform di Indonesia yang bertujuan mempermudah sekolah dalam pengelolaan manajemen akademik, pengelolaan administrasi sekolah dan informasi dimana Sekolah, Siswa dan orangtua dapat terintegrasi dalam satu platform aplikasi. Artikel pengabdian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui strategi Pemasaran oleh RM Dana BRI di kantor Kantor Cabang Pekanbaru Sudirman dalam upaya meningkatkan pemahaman dan keamanan penggunaan aplikasi Junio Smart kepada sekolah di Kota Pekanbaru. Metode yang digunakan adalah  pengabdian mahasiswa magang dengan cara sosialisasi, observasi, wawancara, dan pemecahan masalah oleh  pengabdi. Melalui sosialisasi kepada sekolah, orang tua dan siswa-siswi mengenai manfaat,  kemudahan dan keamanan dalam penggunaan aplikasi Junio Smart, dapat meningkatkan rasa percaya dalam penggunaan aplikasi Junio Smart.
Program MBKM Sebagai Peningkatan Soft Skill Mahasiswa Akuntansi Dalam Menghadapi Dunia Pekerjaan
Authors: Zahra Salwa Nissa , Anriva Della Hilia
Published: August 2023

Soft Skills merupakan hal yang paling penting untuk memasuki dunia kerja. Soft skills sangat diperlukan dalam dalam kehidupan sehari-hari apalagi di dunia pekerjaan. Tidak hanya hard skills saja yang harus dipelajari kita membutuhkan soft skilss karena nantinya kita tidak akan berkerja secara individu melainkan dengan banyak orang. Kemendikbud telah mengeluarkan Permendikud yang dimana mereka membuat program dimana masa belajar mahasiswa bisa dilakukan diluar kelas dalam program magang bersertifikat. Dalam program magang bersertifikat di mana magang ditempatkan langsung ke mitra magang, mahasiswa akan mempelajari hard skills dan soft skills untuk mempersiapkan diri memasuki dunia kerja dan karir mereka dengan lebih percaya diri. Adapun soft skills yang terlatih mahasiswa pada saat kegiatan magang yaitu kejujuran, tanggung jawab, kemampuan bekerja sama, kemampuan beradaptasi, kemampuan berkomunikasi, toleran, hormat terhadap sesama, kemampuan manajemen waktu, kemampuan mengambil keputusan dan kemampuan memecahkan masalah. Melalui kegiatan ini diharapkan mahasiswa dapat mempelajari soft skills dengan baik dan mendapatkan pengalaman dunia kerja yang nyata
Meningkatkan Profesionalisme Guru Sekolah Dasar Melalui Pendampingan Best Practices Metode IMRAD dalam Penulisan Artikel Ilmiah
Authors: Rachmadtullah Reza , Susiloningsih Wahyu , Wardani Imas Srinana , Irianto Apri , Fanani Achmad
Published: August 2023

Kegiatan pengabdian ini dilatarbelakangi permasalahan mitra yang diidentifikasi yaitu menulis artikel ilmiah bagi guru menjadi tuntutan profesinya sehingga guru perlu mendapakan pelatihan dan pendampingan dalam menulis artikel ilmiah, kegiatan ini dilakukan di Sekolah Dasar Negeri Sumur Welut 3. Penulisan karya tulis ilmiah bagi guru dapat berfungsi sebagai rujukan/referensi untuk meningkatkan wawasan atau menyebarluaskan ilmu pengetahuan. Dengan menulis karya ilmiah akan bermanfaat meningkatkan keterampilan membaca dan menulis, berlatih mengintegrasikan berbagai gagasan dan menyajikannya secara sistematis, memperluas wawasan dan guru-guru antusias  karena  pelatihan ini merupakan bagian dalam meningkatkan kompetensi guru. Menulis artikel ilmiah juga bisa bermanfaat untuk mendapatkan kenaikan pangkat bagi guru PNS. Seperti yang diketahui bahwa salah satu unsur kenaikan pangkat guru dari golongan tertentu ke golongan yang lebih tinggi salah satu pendukungnya adalah membuat artikel ilmiah yang diterbitkan di Jurnal ilmiah
Remediation of heavy metals from water using Modified Clay-Chitosan Composites
Authors:   , Majiya Hassan Mohammed
Published: August 2023

Water contamination with pollutants such as heavy metals is of significant concern because the toxicity exhibited by these metals can pose a severe threat to human health and the environment. Adsorption with the combined use of geological materials (such as clays) and biodegradable polymers (such as chitosan) seems to be a promising technique for purification of water contaminated with toxic metals. These materials not only provide a cost-benefit but are also materials derived from sustainable sources and are thus environmentally friendly. This study focuses on the preparation of functional composites (from bentonite clay and chitosan biopolymer) as cheaper, and sustainable adsorbents for effective removal of heavy metals from water. The work carried out in this thesis investigated the efficiency of mixing bentonite with two different chitosans via different preparation methods. The different forms of bentonite-chitosan (Bt-Ch), composites and beads, were prepared in the weight ratios of 90%/10%, 70%/30% and 50%/50%, and via solution blending and precipitation methods, respectively. The beads were further subdivided, identified as “beads-A” and “beads-B”, and were formed by adding either bentonite suspension or bentonite powder, respectively, to solubilised chitosan solution. The composites and beads were characterised by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Subsequently, the different forms of the prepared clay-chitosan composites were investigated for their ability to remove metal ions (Pb, Pb-Cu and As) from aqueous solutions. Batch adsorption procedures (via statistical design of experiments) were used to study the removal of these metal ions. Results showed that Pb (or Pb-Cu) ions can be removed from aqueous solutions effectively. The amount of chitosan present in the adsorbent and its distribution within or outside the interlayer space of the bentonite clay was shown to have pronounced effects on the Pb (or Pb-Cu) uptake by these clay-chitosan composites, and the adsorption of Pb was significantly affected by the presence of other multi-competing ions. However, these composites showed a poor loading capacity (very low removal efficiencies) towards As ions. This led to modification of bentonite clay with chitosan and Fe(III) cations; the Fe-modified composites have demonstrated effective removal of As ions from aqueous solution. The developed Bt-Ch and Fe-modified composites exhibited good potential for re-use after five cycles of regeneration, thus, indicating their potential as cost-effective adsorbents for removal of these metal ions from both drinking and wastewater. Overall, this study provides insights and new valuable knowledge for inexpensive remediation of metal-contaminated water, especially when using composites made from cheap and sustainable materials.
Discourses of academic language development in a UK university
Authors:   , Nicholls Karen
Published: August 2023

Despite calls for explicit language development to be integrated into curricula, in the United Kingdom language development in higher education largely takes place in an ad hoc manner. This is problematic given the increasing diversity in students’ linguistic backgrounds. Through this research I demonstrate that one of the reasons for the lack of university-wide approaches to integrated language development is that key stakeholders have different perspectives and different accounts of what the development of effective language use involves. Specifically, I illuminate key stakeholders’ discourses of language development in higher education. By discourses I mean the use of language in social contexts which portrays the speaker or writer’s position. Highlighting their different discourses reveals concepts, values and beliefs that influence their stance towards language development. This is important because stakeholders need to develop shared understandings to discuss institution-wide approaches to integrating language into the curriculum. The research is guided by a constructionist epistemology and comprises a multiple case study of three interlocking cases, each bounded by a stakeholder group within a single UK university. Data collection methods are designed with my own multiple positionalities in mind and data analysis follows inductive thematic analysis. By illuminating the discourses of key stakeholders and applying a lens of language as a social semiotic, I create a framework which can change practice by building shared understandings on which university-wide approaches can be established. I also analyse potential causes of differences in understandings and include them explicitly within the framework. The potential impact of the research findings is that they set an agenda for constructive conversations between stakeholders to agree how language development can be integrated into curricula in an effective and sustainable manner. This research has the potential to change how universities think about language in the academy.
Jeux et enjeux du préconstruit dans Comment faire l’amour avec un Nègre sans se fatiguer de Dany Laferrière
Authors: Hayatou Guedeyi Yaeneta
Published: August 2023

Le préconstruit, cet impensé toujours en mouvement, ce discours de l’Autre qui investit la pensée et l’écriture du moi, est paradoxalement au coeur de la création littéraire qui vise à le traquer ou à le déjouer. Cet article aborde le phénomène du préconstruit d’un point de vue littéraire, plus précisément son déploiement et ses enjeux dans le roman Comment faire l’amour avec un Nègre sans se fatiguer, de Dany Laferrière. En partant du processus actuel de « créolisation » du monde tel que pensé par Édouard Glissant, il serait judicieux de se pencher sur le côté non pas subversif, mais plutôt évolutif et constructif du préconstruit. En effet, le discours sur le préconstruit, qui est déployé, recyclé, manipulé et déformé par l’écrivain, conduit le lecteur vers un travail de questionnement sur l’identité-Relation et la perception de l’Autre.
DAMPAK GUNCANGAN KESEHATAN TERHADAP KONSUMSI RUMAH TANGGA DI INDONESIA: ADAKAH PERAN ASURANSI KESEHATAN DAN KREDIT MIKRO?
Authors: Umaroh Rodhiah , Listiono Listiono
Published: August 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pengaruh guncangan kesehatan terhadap konsumsi rumah tangga dan bagaimana peran kepemilikan asuransi dan akses kredit mikro dalam menanggulangi dampak gucangan. Variabel utama yansg digunakan sebagai proksi guncangan kesehatan adalah gangguan aktifitas fisik sehari-hari (ADL) yang dialami oleh kepala rumah tangga. Metode evaluasi dampak Propensity Score Matching (PSM) digunakan untuk mengestimasi dampak guncangan kesehatan terhadap konsumsi rumah tangga di Indonesia dengan data Indonesian Family Life Survey (IFLS-5). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa guncangan kesehatan secara signifikan berpengaruh terhadap penurunan konsumsi rumah tangga baik pada konsumsi makanan dan bukan makanan. Temuan penting lainnya adalah rumah tangga yang memiliki asuransi kesehatan dan akses pada pinjaman mikro mampu mengurangi dampak negatif dari guncangan kesehatan. Asuransi kesehatan dan akses kredit mikro dapat disimpulkan memiliki peran sebagai coping risk mechanism rumah tangga saat menghadapi krisis guncangan kesehatan.
THE POTENTIAL OF ECONOMIC LOSS DUE TO STUNTING IN INDONESIA
Authors: Suryana Esty Asriyana , Azis Miftahul
Published: August 2023

Stunting cases continue to increase, along with the high risk of undernutrition, the increasing prevalence of malnutrition, and decreasing productivity. If this condition is not handled correctly, it can affect Indonesia's development performance, inequality, and poverty. Stunting can hinder economic growth and labor productivity, affecting 11% of GDP (gross domestic product) and reducing the income of adult workers by up to 20%. Based on this, it is necessary to make prevention and control efforts in nutrition intervention activities an economic investment. Therefore, this study estimates the economic potential lost due to stunting in children under five. This descriptive study is based on processing secondary data from various related agencies. We employed Konig's formula and correction factors from Horton's study. The results of this study show that the incidence of stunting in children under five in Indonesia in 2021 was 24.4%. Nationally, Indonesia has the potential for economic loss due to stunting in toddlers, which ranges from IDR 15,062 to IDR 67,780 billion. These are equivalent to a range of 0.89-3.99% of the total GDP in 2021 (IDR 16,970.8 trillion).
ÇAĞDAŞ TÜRK RESMİNDE ŞEHİR MANZARALARI
Authors: HASTAOĞLU Gizem , ÖZDEMİR Gülşah
Published: August 2023

ÇAĞDAŞ TÜRK RESMİNDE ŞEHİR MANZARALARI

ÖZ

Türk resminde şehir manzaraları, Türkiye’nin tarihini, kültürünü ve doğal güzelliklerini yansıtan önemli bir konudur. Geçmişten günümüze şehir manzaralarını incelediğimizde, doğanın, farklı dönemlerde farklı kültürlerle harmanlanan sanatçıların zihninden izleyicilere çağrışımlar sunduğunu görürüz. Tema manzara da olsa, sanatçının bu tema kapsamın da seçtiği mekân, bakış açısı, renk ve ahengi, bulunduğu sosyoekonomik düzen ve kültürel değerlerin yansımasıyla özgün eserler oluşmaktadır. Tabiatın insan psikolojisi üzerindeki olumlu etkileri uzun zamandır bilinmektedir. Manzara çizimindeki temel nedenlerden biri, doğal ve kentsel unsurların birleşimiyle oluşan bu eserlerin insanlara huzur ve dinginlik hissi vermesidir. İnsanlar doğanın ve şehir yaşamının sentezlendiği bu resimlerde kendilerini rahatlamış ve sakin hissetmektedirler. Şehir manzaraları, kent yaşamının karmaşasından kaçmak isteyen insanlar için bir sığınak niteliği taşımaktadır. Türk resminde manzara resmine yönelik ilgi, insanların doğaya ve kentsel çevreye olan bağlılığını ve özlem duygusunu da yansıtmaktadır. Bu makaleyle, Osmanlı döneminden başlayarak, 2000’lere kadar olan süreçte manzara resminin gelişimi gözlemlenmiş, 2000’lerden sonraki süreçte ise şehir manzaralarının gelişimi, teknik, üslup ve pentüral bakımdan incelenmiştir. Araştırmalar sonucunda, şehir manzaralarının Çağdaş Türk resmindeki yeri ve önemi, günümüzdeki çağdaş sanatçıların şehir manzaraları temasına nasıl yaklaştığı ve bu konuda neler yaptığı, üzerinde durulmaktadır. Şehir manzaralarını konu edinen sanatçıların eserlerinden seçkin örneklerle de desteklenmiştir.

Anahtar Kelimeler: Türk resmi, Manzara, Şehir manzaraları
Species and habitat specific changes in bird activity in an urban environment during Covid 19 lockdown
Authors: Sun Congnan , Hassin Yoel , Boonman Arjan , Shwartz Assaf , Yovel Yossi
Published: August 2023

Covid-19 lockdowns provided ecologists with a rare opportunity to examine how animals behave when humans are absent. Indeed many studies reported various effects of lockdowns on animal activity, especially in urban areas and other human-dominated habitats. We explored how Covid-19 lockdowns in Israel have influenced bird activity in an urban environment by using continuous acoustic recordings to monitor three common bird species that differ in their level of adaptation to the urban ecosystem: (1) the hooded crow, an urban exploiter, which depends heavily on anthropogenic resources; (2) the rose-ringed parakeet, an invasive alien species that has adapted to exploit human resources; and (3) the graceful prinia, an urban adapter, which is relatively shy of humans and can be found in urban habitats with shrubs and prairies. Acoustic recordings provided continuous monitoring of bird activity without an effect of the observer on the animal. We performed dense sampling of a 1.3 square km area in northern Tel-Aviv by placing 17 recorders for more than a month in different micro-habitats within this region including roads, residential areas and urban parks. We monitored both lockdown and no-lockdown periods. We portray a complex dynamic system where the activity of specific bird species depended on many environmental parameters and decreases or increases in a habitat-dependent manner during lockdown. Specifically, urban exploiter species decreased their activity in most urban habitats during lockdown, while human adapter species increased their activity during lockdown especially in parks where humans were absent. Our results also demonstrate the value of different habitats within urban environments for animal activity, specifically highlighting the importance of urban parks. These species- and habitat-specific changes in activity might explain the contradicting results reported by others who have not performed a habitat specific analysis.
Drivers of species knowledge across the Tree of Life
Authors: Mammola Stefano , Adamo Martino , Antić Dragan , Calevo Jacopo , Cancellario Tommaso , Cardoso Pedro , Chamberlain Dan , Chialva Matteo , Durucan Furkan , Fontaneto Diego , Gonçalves Duarte V. , Martínez Alejandro , Santini Luca , Rubio-López Iñigo , Sousa Ronaldo , Villegas-Ríos David , Verdes Aida , Correia Ricardo A.
Published: August 2023

Knowledge of biodiversity is unevenly distributed across the Tree of Life. In the long run, such disparity in awareness unbalances our understanding of life on Earth, influencing policy decisions and the allocation of research and conservation funding. We investigated how humans accumulate knowledge of biodiversity by searching for consistent relationships between scientific (number of publications) and societal (number of views in Wikipedia) interest, and species-level morphological, ecological and socio-cultural factors. Across a random selection of 3,007 species spanning 29 Phyla/Divisions, we show that socio-cultural factors are the most important correlates of scientific and societal interest in biodiversity, including the fact that a species is useful or harmful to humans, has a common name and is listed in the IUCN Red List. Furthermore, large-bodied, broadly distributed and taxonomically unique species receive more scientific and societal attention, whereas colorfulness and phylogenetic proximity to humans correlates exclusively with societal attention. These results highlight a favoritism towards limited branches of the Tree of Life, and that scientific and societal priorities in biodiversity research broadly align. This suggests that we may be missing out on key species in our research and conservation agenda simply because they are not on our cultural radar.
Severe Hypertriglyceridemia in Argentina: Prevalence and Clinical Characteristics
Authors: Saenz Benjamin , Matta María G. , Blautzik Facundo , Corral Agustina , Sampayo Facundo , Piedrabuena Federico , Corral Pablo
Published: August 2023

Background: Severe hypertriglyceridemia (SHTG) is a metabolic disorder with multiple origins and management implications. Prevalence, clinical characteristics, and its possible causes are unknown in Argentina. Objective: The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence and describe the clinical characteristics and underlying SHTG causes in a third level hospital in the municipality of General Pueyrredón. Methods: An observational, descriptive study was performed using an electronic database from a provincial Hospital. It included adult patients with triglyceride (TG) levels above 885 mg/dL (10 mmol/L) evaluated from January 2018 to December 2021. Medical records were collected, and patients were then contacted to obtain anthropometric measurements, sociodemographic variables, personal and family history, secondary causes of hypertriglyceridemia, and treatment received. Results: Among 16 029 patients analyzed, 46 presented SHTG, representing a total prevalence of 0.28% (95% CI 0.20-0.40%). Finally, 19 participants with mean age 48.47±16 years and 84.2% men were included in the analysis. Median TG level was 1821 mg/dL (interquartile range 917-7000 mg/dL), and 17 participants (84.97%) had hypercholesterolemia (total cholesterol >200 mg/dL). Almost 50% reported alcohol consumption, 55% were obese and 68% had type II diabetes. Nine participants were under pharmacological treatment, 4 with fibrates and 5 with statins. Conclusion: A prevalence of 0.28% SHTG was found, higher than that reported in other series. Another finding was the underuse of medication for this severe dyslipidemia.
Behavior of Retrograde Conduction Time at Supraventricular Tachycardia Induction and its Role in Differential Diagnosis
Authors: Hadid Claudio , Celano Leonardo , Di Toro Darío , Antezana Chavez Edgar , Gallino Sebastián , Iralde Gustavo , Atea Leonardo , González Sergio , Maldonado Sebastián , Labadet Carlos
Published: August 2023

Background: Differential diagnosis between orthodromic reentrant tachycardia (ORT) and atypical nodal reentrant tachycardia (ANRT) can be challenging. Our hypothesis was that ANRT presents more variability in retrograde conduction time at tachycardia onset than ORT. Objectives: The objectives of this study were to assess retrograde conduction time variability at the start of tachycardia in ANRT and ORT, and postulate a new diagnostic tool to differentiate these two types of arrhythmias. Methods: The ventriculoatrial (VA) interval of the first beats after tachycardia induction was measured until stabilization. The difference between the maximum and minimum VA interval was defined as delta VA (ΔVA), and the number of beats needed for VA interval stabilization was also assessed. Atrial tachycardias were excluded. Results: In a total of 101 patients included in the study, ORT was diagnosed in 64 patients and ANRT in 37. ΔVA interval was 0 (interquartile range [IQR] 0-5) milliseconds (ms) in ORT vs. 40 (21-55) ms in ANRT (p <0.001). The VA interval significantly stabilized earlier in ORT (1.5 [1-3] beats) than in ANRT (5 [4-7] beats) (p<0.001). A ΔVA <10 ms diagnosed ORT with 100% sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values. Ventriculoatrial interval stabilization in less than 3 beats predicted ORT with good diagnostic accuracy. The results were similar considering only accessory septal pathways. Typical NRTs presented an intermediate variation. Conclusion: Presence of ΔVA <10 ms is a simple criterion that accurately differentiates ORT from ANRT, independently of the accessory pathway localization.
Optimization of Door-to-Balloon Time Implementing a Process Improvement Program. Results after 5 Years
Authors: Furmento Juan , Candiello Alfonsina , Mascolo Pablo , Lamelas Pablo , Chapman Ian , Sigal Alan , Trivi Marcelo , Belardi Jorge , Costabel Juan Pablo
Published: August 2023

Background: If available, primary transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA), performed timely and in experienced sites, is the best reperfusion strategy for ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The door-to-balloon (DTB) time expresses operational efficiency of the site in charge of the PTCA, with an impact on patient’s progress. The aim of this study was to analyze the long-term results of a continuous improvement program for the DTB time process. Methods: Patients diagnosed with STEMI who had undergone PTCA from January 2015 to May 2022 were prospectively and consecutively enrolled. The population was divided in two periods: an immediate implementation period and a long-term follow-up period. Results: 671 patients were prospectively and consecutively enrolled. During the implementation period (P1) 91 patients were enrolled, and 580 during the program follow-up (P2). The median (interquartile range, IQR) DTB time was 46 min (29-59) for P1 vs 42 min(25-52) for P2, p=0.055). The second period showed a reduction in pre-activations (P1 54,1% vs P2 30% p=0.02) and on-hour procedures (42% for P1 versus 30% for P2, p=0.029). Conclusion: The registry showed long-term maintenance of good results, despite reduced reactivations and on-hour procedures.
Learning from the Past; Improving the Future
Authors: Menom Venu
Published: August 2023

“…lessons from this registry should help foster collaboration with other local and regional institutions to create an ever-expansive reliable STEMI network.”
Resident Perspectives on Modular Housing: The Need for Progression, Collaboration, and Autonomy
Authors: Delleman Joshua , Charbonneau Meredith , Teng Minnie , Jarus Tal
Published: August 2023

Modular housing is a temporary and transitional housing program in British Columbia. This qualitative study gathered the perceived needs of residents at modular housing sites to determine how service delivery impacts care continuity and well-being. Twenty-five residents at four modular housing sites in an urban setting participated in focus groups and semi-structured interviews. Thematic content analysis was used to summarize key findings. Themes highlight the need for flexible, person-centred, and tailored supports. Participants also voiced the importance of communication during times of transition into modular housing, as well as the impact of the environment on safety and autonomy.
A stopping criterion for iterative proton CT image reconstruction based on correlated noise properties
Authors: DeJongh Ethan A. , Pryanichnikov Alexander A. , DeJongh Don F. , Schulte Reinhard W.
Published: August 2023

Background

Whereas filtered back projection algorithms for voxel‐based CT image reconstruction have noise properties defined by the filter, iterative algorithms must stop at some point in their convergence and do not necessarily produce consistent noise properties for images with different degrees of heterogeneity.

Purpose

A least‐squares iterative algorithm for proton CT (pCT) image reconstruction converges toward a unique solution for relative stopping power (RSP) that optimally fits the protons. We present a stopping criterion that delivers solutions with the property that correlations of RSP noise between voxels are relatively low. This provides a method to produce pCT images with consistent noise properties useful for proton therapy treatment planning, which relies on summing RSP along lines of voxels. Consistent noise properties will also be useful for future studies of image quality using metrics such as contrast to noise ratio, and to compare RSP noise and dose of pCT with other modalities such as dual‐energy CT.

Methods

With simulated and real images with varying heterogeneity from a prototype clinical proton imaging system, we calculate average RSP correlations between voxel pairs in uniform regions‐of‐interest versus distance between voxels. We define a parameter r, the remaining distance to the unique solution relative to estimated RSP noise, and our stopping criterion is based on r falling below a chosen value.

Results

We find large correlations between voxels for larger values of r, and anticorrelations for smaller values. For r in the range of 0.5–1, voxels are relatively uncorrelated, and compared to smaller values of r have lower noise with only slight loss of spatial resolution.

Conclusions

Iterative algorithms not using a specific metric or rationale for stopping iterations may produce images with an unknown and arbitrary level of convergence or smoothing. We resolve this issue by stopping iterations of a least‐squares iterative algorithm when r reaches the range of 0.5–1. This defines a pCT image reconstruction method with consistent statistical properties optimal for clinical use, including for treatment planning with pCT images.
Effectiveness and limitations of two drop studies to explain emulsion dehydration under modulated electric fields
Authors: Hasib Raunaq , Juvekar Vinay A. , Thaokar Rochish M.
Published: August 2023

Electrocoalescence has long been known for the separation of a water‐in‐oil emulsion. An associated challenge with electrocoalescers is the undesired noncoalescence and consequently chain formation of aqueous phase droplets. This leads to low separation efficiency and damage of electrical equipment. Recently Hasib et al. proposed an electric field modulated scheme that showed significant improvement in dehydration of water‐in‐oil emulsions. They investigated the range of modulation parameters when the scheme is most effective. The fundamental process in electrostatic dehydration of an emulsion is the interaction between a pair of water droplets. In the present study, two suspended aqueous drops in insulated oil experiments are compared for their behavior under unmodulated and modulated electric fields. Further, a model is developed and the experimental behavior under unmodulated and modulated electric fields is compared with numerical solutions. The model predicts the experimental observations accurately by balancing electrostatic, electrophoresis, dipolar, and resisting viscous drag forces, ignoring the end (bridge) effect during the contact. The study shows that the increase in the rate of dehydration of a water‐in‐oil emulsion under modulated electric fields with an increase in duty ratio and its near independence on the modulation time period can be explained by the two‐drop studies. However, several other processes such as multidrop interactions as well as scavenging of fine droplets by charged droplets created as intermediates in the interaction of two droplets cannot be explained by the two‐drop studies.
Stability and kinetics of iron‐terephthalate MOFs with diverse structures in aqueous pollutant degradation
Authors: Moore Samuel C. , Sarazen Michele L.
Published: August 2023

Synthesized iron‐terephthalate metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), MIL‐101 and MOF‐235, with contrasting morphologies are examined to elucidate the role of structural arrangement in catalytic aqueous pollutant degradation. MIL‐101 demonstrates a larger pseudo‐first order rate constant than MOF‐235 (3.5 ± 0.2 molFe−1·s−1 vs. 0.84 ± 0.07 molFe−1·s−1) toward oxidation of methylene blue (MB) dye with excess hydrogen peroxide at ambient temperature, likely due to intrinsic differences in ligand coordination at their metal nodes. However, despite continued activity upon reuse, both MOFs undergo structural alterations resulting in formation of leached species active for MB degradation that have been obfuscated in previous studies. Detailed stability testing and ex situ characterization of recovered catalyst, examinations that remain underreported in Fe‐MOF studies for pollutant oxidation, indicate that water plays a prominent role in the breakdown of these frameworks. Collectively, this work informs the interpretation and use of common Fe‐MOFs for aqueous applications, relating material changes to observed reaction phenomena.
Facile synthesis and exfoliation of micro‐sized LDH to fabricate 2D membranes towards Mg/Li separation
Authors: Li Biao , Peng Juanjuan , Li Menghan , Yang Zeya , Lu Jun , Han Jingbin
Published: August 2023

Two‐dimensional (2D) membranes have demonstrated potential for molecular separation; however, their applicability for Li/Mg ion separation has been restricted by their negatively‐charged and easily‐swellable properties in water. Moreover, their practical application has been hindered by the challenge of producing significant quantities of single‐layer nanosheets. To overcome these challenges, we have developed a scalable method for synthesizing micro‐sized nitrate ZnAl layered double hydroxide (LDH) and subsequent exfoliating to yield monolayer nanosheets for the construction of 2D membranes. The sub‐nanometer channels of the LDH membrane is positively charged, which prevents the passage of magnesium ions. These channels also impede the flow of magnesium ions that are more difficult to dehydrate. As a result, the LDH membranes exhibit robust lithium–magnesium separation ability, with a separation ratio of 6 (Li/Mg). This work provides a method for producing high‐quality LDH nanosheets and validates the enormous potential of LDH membranes in the field of lithium–magnesium separation.
Prevalence and predictors of skin cancer screening among a sample of US volunteer firefighters
Authors: Shah Nimit N. , Steinberg Michael B. , Caban‐Martinez Alberto J. , Austin Elena , Burgess Jefferey L. , Hollerbach Brittany S. , Edwards Derrick L. , Black Taylor M. , Black Kathleen , Hinton Kaleigh M. , Kubiel Brian S. , Graber Judith M.
Published: August 2023

Background

Firefighters have a higher risk of melanoma incidence and mortality compared to the general population. In the United States (US), the National Fire Protection Association recommends all firefighters receive annual skin cancer screening through visual skin examination by a clinician. However, there is limited information on skin cancer screening practices among volunteer firefighters who comprise two‐thirds of the US fire service.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study of 552 US volunteer firefighters estimated the prevalence of skin cancer screening and evaluated associations with their fire service experience, demographics, sun protection practices, and cancer risk perception.

Results

The prevalence of receiving skin cancer screening among volunteer firefighters was 26.1% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 22.4, 29.8). The odds of being screened for skin cancer, compared to not being screened, were twice as high for firefighters who used sunscreen (odds ratio [OR]: 2.35, 95% CI: 1.48, 3.73) and who perceived their skin likely to burn with prolonged sun exposure (OR: 1.81, 95% CI: 1.10, 3.00). Older age, some college education, and family history of skin cancer were also positively associated with skin cancer screening. A positive exposure‐response relationship was observed between more monthly firefighting calls and receiving screening. Cancer risk perception was not associated with screening.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first large study to assess skin cancer screening among US volunteer firefighters. Our findings suggest gaps in skin cancer prevention efforts in the volunteer fire service. Additional assessment of skin cancer prevention practices within volunteer fire departments could help address these gaps.
New Ag(I)−NHC/TBHP System for Oxidative Coupling of α‐Hydroxy Acetophenones with Amines: A Base‐Free and Efficient Synthesis of α‐Ketoamides in Water
Authors: Muqeed Mohammad , Manchal Ravinder , Botla Vinayak , Azam Mohammad , Vasam Chandra Sekhar , Thirukovela Narasimha Swamy
Published: August 2023

A base‐free and efficient tandem one‐pot α‐ketoamide bond formation via tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) mediated oxidative coupling of α‐hydroxy acetophenones with primary and secondary amines under Ag(I)‐N‐Heterocyclic carbene (Ag(I)−NHC) catalysis in water was developed herein for the first time.
New directions in intergenerational child maltreatment research and responses: Knowledge gaps and recommendations
Authors: McKenzie Emma F. , Hurren Emily , Tzoumakis Stacy , Thompson Carleen M. , Stewart Anna
Published: August 2023

While there is much research on the topic of child maltreatment more broadly in Australia, a nuanced understanding of intergenerational child maltreatment is needed to improve our responses. Little work has considered all four intergenerational patterns of child maltreatment: cycle maintainers (maltreated parents with maltreated children), cycle breakers (maltreated parents with non‐maltreated children), cycle initiators (non‐maltreated parents with maltreated children) and a comparison group (non‐maltreated parents with non‐maltreated children). We use this terminology to maintain consistency with international literature, but acknowledge that these terms minimise the complexity inherent in contact with child protection systems. Research has mainly focused on maintainers, which hinders our ability to appropriately support all families and limits our understanding of individuals breaking the cycle. This paper outlines key knowledge gaps and identifies strategic areas of focus for researchers and policymakers. There is an urgent need for more emphasis on building resilience and strengths, the provision of more integrated and holistic support for families, and consideration of sex differences. We highlight the need for more research on this topic, particularly led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and hope that the recommendations in this paper can be revisited and updated as this important research base grows.
Automated patterning of human brain endothelial cells on microstructures using a microfluidic manufacturing approach: An in vitro study
Authors: Aykar Saurabh S. , Ouedraogo Lionel J. , Petersen Isaac S. , Trznadel Mychal J. , Alimoradi Nima , Montazami Reza , Brockman Amanda L. , Hashemi Nicole N.
Published: August 2023

Barrier functionality of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) is provided by the tight junctions formed by a monolayer of the human brain endothelial cells (HBECs) internally around the blood capillaries. To mimic such barrier functionality in vitro, replicating the hollow tubular structure of the BBB along with the HBECs monolayer on its inner surface is crucial. Here, we developed a microfluidic manufacturing technique to pattern the HBECs on the surface of alginate‐based microstructures. The HBECs were seeded on the inner surface of these hollow microfibers using a custom‐built microfluidic device. The seeded HBECs were monitored for 9 days after manufacturing and cultured to form a monolayer on the inner surface of the alginate hollow microfibers in the maintenance media. A higher cell seeding density of 217 cells/mm length of the hollow microfiber was obtained using our microfluidic technique. Moreover, high accuracy of around 96% was obtained in seeding cells on the inner surface of alginate hollow microfibers. The microfluidic method illustrated in this study could be extrapolated to obtain a monolayer of different cell types on the inner surface of alginate hollow microfibers with cell‐compatible ECM matrix proteins. Furthermore, it will enable us to manufacture a range of microvascular systems in vitro by closely replicating the structural attributes of the native structure.
A general framework for optimal stopping problems with two risk factors and real option applications
Authors: Agliardi Rossella
Published: August 2023

A new explicit solution is obtained for a general class of two‐dimensional optimal stopping problems arising in real option theory. First, the solvable case of homogeneous and quasi‐homogeneous problems is presented in a comprehensive framework. Then the general problem—including the unsolved case of inhomogeneous functions—is considered and an explicit expression for the value function is obtained in terms of a modified Bessel function of second kind. Then we clarify the link between the general solution method and the more elementary one in the specific (quasi‐)homogeneous problem. Finally, this article provides some useful formulas and some insights for the one‐dimensional case as well.
The interplay between perceived busyness and power distance belief on subjective social status: Consequences for consumer preferences for material versus experiential purchases
Authors: Park Sehoon , Kim Chaeyeong , Park Jane
Published: August 2023

The perception of a busy life as an indicator of self‐worth varies among individuals. Postulating that this perceptual difference can be attributed to one's attitude toward social stratification, the current research examines the interplay between perceived busyness and power distance belief (PDB). We propose that perceived busyness dictates a consumer's subjective social status under low PDB but not under high PDB. Furthermore, the interaction between perceived busyness and PDB determines an individual's relative preference for purchase types: material versus experiential purchases. Study 1 verifies that consumers' perceived busyness has a positive effect on their evaluation of their social status when they have low PDB, whereas this effect disappears when they have high PDB. Study 2 tests the asymmetric effect of perceived busyness and PDB on preference for purchase types, and Study 3 further provides evidence for the mediating role of subjective social status.
Hepatoprotective effect of p‐Coumaric acid against KBrO3‐induced apoptosis in HepG2 cells
Authors: Nivetha Selvaraj , Asha Kumaraswami Radha Thayammal , Srinivasan Subramani , Murali Raju , Kanagalakshmi Ambothi
Published: August 2023

In the present study, we investigated the effect of the p‐Coumaric acid (PCA), a phenolic acid, on potassium bromate (KBrO3) induced oxidative damage, Ras/Raf/MEK signaling, and apoptosis in HepG2 cells. Our findings showed that PCA‐treated cells prevented cytotoxicity compared with KBrO3‐treated cells. Furthermore, KBrO3‐induced oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation was attenuated by PCA and it also increased the antioxidant levels such as SOD, CAT, and GPX. Additionally, PCA inhibited the KBrO3‐induced DNA damage in HepG2 cells. Moreover, PCA treatment suppressed the activation of Ras/Raf/MEK signaling and increased the expression of PRDX‐1. In addition, PCA prevented the KBrO3‐induced apoptosis cascade by altering the expression of proapoptotic, Bax, caspase‐3, and antiapoptotic, Bcl‐2 proteins. The present study proves that PCA inhibited the KBrO3‐induced oxidative stress, DNA damage, and apoptotic signaling cascade in HepG2 cells.
Exploring COVID‐19 education to support vaccine confidence amongst the general adult population with special considerations for healthcare and long‐term care staff: A scoping review
Authors: Murmann Maya , Reed Anna Cooper , Scott Mary , Presseau Justin , Heer Carrie , May Kathryn , Ramzy Amy , Huynh Chau N. , Skidmore Becky , Welch Vivian , Little Julian , Wilson Kumanan , Brouwers Melissa , Hsu Amy T.
Published: August 2023

Background

Despite the demonstrated efficacy of approved COVID‐19 vaccines, high levels of hesitancy were observed in the first few months of the COVID‐19 vaccines' rollout. Factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy are well‐described in the literature. Among the various strategies for promoting vaccine confidence, educational interventions provide a foundationally and widely implemented set of approaches for supporting individuals in their vaccine decisions. However, the evidence around the measurable impact of various educational strategies to improve vaccine confidence is limited. We conducted a scoping review with the aim of exploring and characterizing educational interventions delivered during the pandemic to support COVID‐19 vaccine confidence in adults.

Methods

We developed a search strategy with a medical information scientist and searched five databases, including Ovid MEDLINE and Web of Science, as well as grey literature. We considered all study designs and reports. Interventions delivered to children or adolescents, interventions on non‐COVID‐19 vaccines, as well as national or mass vaccination campaigns without documented interaction(s) between facilitator(s) and a specific audience were excluded. Articles were independently screened by three reviewers. After screening 4602 titles and abstracts and 174 full‐text articles across two rounds of searches, 22 articles met our inclusion criteria. Ten additional studies were identified through hand searching. Data from included studies were charted and results were described narratively.

Results

We included 32 studies and synthesized their educational delivery structure, participants (i.e., facilitators and priority audience), and content. Formal, group‐based presentations were the most common type of educational intervention in the included studies (75%). A third of studies (34%) used multiple strategies, with many formal group‐based presentations being coupled with additional individual‐based interventions (29%). Given the novelty of the COVID‐19 vaccines and the unique current context, studies reported personalized conversations, question periods, and addressing misinformation as important components of the educational approaches reviewed.

Conclusions

Various educational interventions were delivered during the COVID‐19 pandemic, with many initiatives involving multifaceted interventions utilizing both formal and informal approaches that leveraged community (cultural, religious) partnerships when developing and facilitating COVID‐19 vaccine education. Train‐the‐trainer approaches with recognized community members could be of value as trust and personal connections were identified as strong enablers throughout the review.