bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intergenerational Transmission of Welfare Benefit Receipt: Evidence from Germany
Authors: Riphahn Regina T. , Feichtmayer Jennifer
Published: March 2024

We study the intergenerational transmission of welfare benefit receipt in Germany. We first describe the correlation between welfare receipt experienced in the parental household and subsequent own welfare receipt of young adults. In a second step, we investigate whether the observed correlations reflect causal effects of past welfare experience. We use family fixed effects estimations and Gottschalk's (1996) approach and take advantage of the long‐running German Socio‐Economic Panel Survey to contribute to a sparse literature. We find strong positive correlations between parental and own welfare receipt. These patterns do, however, not persist after controlling for unobserved heterogeneities. Therefore, our results suggest that the strong intergenerational correlation of welfare benefit receipt is determined by family background rather than by the experience of parental welfare benefit receipt.
Fisheries local action groups, small‐scale fisheries and territorial development
Authors: Phillipson Jeremy , Salmi Pekka , Linke Sebastian , Svels Kristina , Budzich‐Tabor Urszula
Published: March 2024

In comparison to the wealth of critical evaluation of LEADER (i.e., Liaison entre actions de développement de l'économie rurale), there has been no consolidated attempt to reflect on the contribution of Fisheries Local Action Groups (FLAGs), now entering their third EU programming period. Set up in the image of LEADER, and a novel governance instrument within the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), FLAGs aim to activate local responses that build resilience and adaptability within the fisheries sector and wider communities. In addition to introducing the accompanying articles that make up this special issue of Sociologia Ruralis, our article gives an account of the emergence of community‐led local development (CLLD) in fisheries and the attributes that have characterised the application of the LEADER approach within a fisheries‐territorial development context. In many cases, FLAGs have led to improved relationships between the small‐scale fishing sector and wider local social and economic networks, helping the sector reimagine its role within local economies. Yet outcomes vary as the FLAG approach has been applied across different cultural and institutional settings. There are indications that the system is becoming enveloped by wider priorities of coastal development and blue growth. Yet FLAGs may well provide a successful test case for widening participation in the CFP and upscaling integration of the fishing industry within local and regional economies. For CLLD in general, they are a reminder of the value of a differentiated CLLD approach tailored to different sectoral‐territorial contexts.
130 years from discovery to description: micro‐CT scanning applied to construct the integrative taxonomy of a forgotten moth from Southern Africa (Lepidoptera: Geometridae)
Authors: Englund Mikael , Lee Kyung Min , Staude Hermann , Duplouy Anne , Hausmann Axel , Laiho Elina , Söderholm Max , Sihvonen Pasi
Published: March 2024

X‐ray micro‐computed tomography (micro‐CT) of dried and pinned museum specimens combined with advanced image processing can provide a useful, novel and non‐destructive tool for integrative insect taxonomy. This paper demonstrates how micro‐CT can be applied to provide unambiguous illustrations of diagnostic morphological characters for new taxa description and to understand how micro‐CT imaging may complement other imaging techniques. Following micro‐CT scanning, a semi‐automatic segmentation and volume rendering protocol was used to portray the wing venation and diagnostic structures and ornamentation of male genitalia from multiple angles. Using micro‐CT images, we provide the description of a conspicuous geometrid moth from southern Africa (Lepidoptera: Geometridae), which has been present in collections since 1894, but left without an available name. Using a multigenetic dataset comprising 273 terminal taxa from the superfamily Geometroidea, we constructed a molecular phylogeny to place our study species to an isolated lineage in Geometridae: Larentiinae, tribe Xanthorhoini sensu lato. We describe it as Chloecolora vergetaria new genus, new species Englund & Staude, and provide diverse ecological information on its distribution, habitat, host plant, adult and immature stages, and parasites. We found micro‐CT imaging particularly useful in two‐ and three‐dimensional imaging of wings, providing detailed information for instance on non‐tubular folds that may be difficult to distinguish using other techniques.
Computed tomographic diagnosis of a common bile duct abscess and secondary extrahepatic biliary duct obstruction in a potbelly pig
Authors: Sannajust Kimberley , Palmisano Megan , Whisenant Katrijn , Slack JoAnn , Holt David , Woodrow Jane , Manzi Timothy J
Published: March 2024

A potbelly pig was evaluated for anorexia and icterus. Clinicopathologic abnormalities suggested an active inflammatory hepatobiliary process. Ultrasound and CT of the abdomen revealed an extrahepatic biliary obstruction of the common bile duct (CBD). Surgical exploration and choledochotomy revealed a markedly dilated CBD containing a large volume of intraluminal inspissated biliary material. This case report describes the imaging findings of an extrahepatic biliary obstruction secondary to abscessation within the CBD in a pig.
Genetic diversity of P1/pathogenic Leptospira species hosted by bats worldwide
Authors: Matiz‐González J. Manuel , Ballesteros‐Ballesteros Jesús A. , Hernández María , Mejorano‐Fonseca Julián A. , Cuervo Claudia , Faccini‐Martínez Álvaro A. , Hidalgo Marylin , Pérez‐Torres Jairo , Silva‐Ramos Carlos Ramiro
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Bats are a diverse group of mammals that have unique features allowing them to act as reservoir hosts for several zoonotic pathogens such as Leptospira. Leptospires have been classified into pathogenic, intermediate, and saprophytic groups and more recently into clades P1, P2, S1, and S2, being all the most important pathogenic species related to leptospirosis included within the P1/pathogenic clade. Leptospira has been detected from bats in several regions worldwide; however, the diversity of leptospires harboured by bats is still unknown.

Aim

The aim of the present study was to determine the genetic diversity of Leptospira spp. harboured by bats worldwide.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted on four databases to retrieve studies in which Leptospira was detected from bats. All studies were screened to retrieve all available Leptospira spp. 16S rRNA sequences from the GenBank database and data regarding their origin. Sequences obtained were compared with each other and reference sequences of Leptospira species and analysed through phylogenetic analysis.

Results

A total of 418 Leptospira spp. 16S rRNA sequences isolated from 55 bat species from 14 countries were retrieved from 15 selected manuscripts. From these, 417 sequences clustered within the P1/pathogenic group, and only one sequence clustered within the P2/intermediate group. Six major clades of P1/pathogenic Leptospira spp. were identified, three of them composed exclusively of sequences obtained from bats.

Conclusion

We identified that bats harbour a great genetic diversity of Leptospira spp. that form part of the P1/pathogenic clade, some of which are closely related to leptospirosis‐associated species. This finding contributes to the knowledge of the diversity of leptospires hosted by bats worldwide and reinforces the role of bats as reservoirs of P1/pathogenic Leptospira spp.
Analytical expressions for the first passage time distribution and hit distribution in two and three dimensions
Authors: Clarkson Alexander , Lam Chi-Hang , Deng Hai-Yao
Published: March 2024

The distribution of the time elapsed before a random variable reaches a threshold value for the first time, called the first passage time (FPT) distribution, is a fundamental characteristic of stochastic processes. Here, by solving the standard macroscopic diffusion equation, we derive analytical expressions for the FPT distribution of a diffusing particle hitting a spherical object in two dimensions (2D) and three dimensions (3D) in the course of unrestricted diffusion in open space. In addition, we calculate, analytically, the angular dependence of the FPT, known as the hit distribution. The analytical results are also compared to simulations of the motions of a random walker on a discrete lattice. This topic could be of wide pedagogical interest because the FPT is important not only in physics but also in chemistry, biology, medicine, agriculture, engineering, and finance. Additionally, the central equations often appear in physics and engineering with only trivial variations, making the solution techniques widely applicable.
Autosomal recessiveALOX12Bgene and consecutive collodion baby
Authors: Thakur Krishma , Sehgal Alka , Goel Bharti , Chaudhary Madhu
Published: March 2024

Autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis is a type of inherited ichthyosis which is a rare cluster of genetic disorders leading to defective keratinisation. The combined prevalence for lamellar ichthyosis and congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma is almost 1 per 200 000–300 000 people. Among all the mutations in this gene, missense and frameshift mutations are most common which account for 80% of the cases. Our patient had a mutation in R-type arachidonate 12-lipoxygenase gene (ALOX12B, OMIM*603741).
Using the Power Wheel as a transformative tool to promote equity through spaces and places of patient engagement
Authors: Sayani Ambreen , Cordeaux Emily , Wu Kelly , Awil Fatah , Garcia Victoria , Hinds Ryan , Jeji Tara , Khan Omar , Soh Bee-Lee , Mensah Desiree , Monteith Linda , Musawi Mursal , Rathbone Marlene , Robinson Jill , Sterling Staceyan , Wardak Dean , Amsdr Isra , Khawari Mohadessa , Niwe Salva , Hussain Azmina , Forster Victoria , Maybee Alies
Published: March 2024

Background

Patient engagement is the active collaboration between patient partners and health system partners towards a goal of making decisions that centre patient needs—thus improving experiences of care, and overall effectiveness of health services in alignment with the Quintuple Aim. An important but challenging aspect of patient engagement is including diverse perspectives particularly those experiencing health inequities. When such populations are excluded from decision-making in health policy, practice and research, we risk creating a healthcare ecosystem that reinforces structural marginalisation and perpetuates health inequities.

Approach

Despite the growing body of literature on knowledge coproduction, few have addressed the role of power relations in patient engagement and offered actionable steps for engaging diverse patients in an inclusive way with a goal of improving health equity. To fill this knowledge gap, we draw on theoretical concepts of power, our own experience codesigning a novel model of patient engagement that is equity promoting, Equity Mobilizing Partnerships in Community, and extensive experience as patient partners engaged across the healthcare ecosystem. We introduce readers to a new conceptual tool, the Power Wheel, that can be used to analyse the interspersion of power in the places and spaces of patient engagement.

Conclusion

As a tool for ongoing praxis (reflection +action), the Power Wheel can be used to report, reflect and resolve power asymmetries in patient-partnered projects, thereby increasing transparency and illuminating opportunities for equitable transformation and social inclusion so that health services can meet the needs and priorities of all people.
Online survey exploring researcher experiences of research funding processes in the UK: the effort and burden of applying for funding and fulfilling reporting requirements
Authors: Fackrell Kathryn , Church Hazel , Crane Ksenia , Recio-Saucedo Alejandra , Blatch-Jones Amanda , Meadmore Katie
Published: March 2024

Objective

To explore researchers’ experiences of funding processes, the effort and burden involved in applying for funding, obtaining funding and/or fulfilling reporting requirements with a UK health and social care research funder.

Design/Setting

A cross-sectional online survey study with open (free-text) and closed questions (August to November 2021).

Participants

Researchers with experience of applying for/obtaining funding and/or experience of fulfilling reporting requirements for UK health and social care research funded between January 2018 and June 2021.

Results

The survey was completed by 182 researchers, of which 176 had experience with applying for/obtaining funding, and 143 had experience with fulfilling reporting requirements during the timeframe. The majority of the 176 respondents (58%) completed between 7 and 13 key processes in order to submit an application and 69% felt that it was critically important to undertake these key processes. Respondents (n=143) reported submitting an average of 17 reports as part of research monitoring to a range of organisations (eg, funders, Higher Education Institutions). However, only 33% of respondents felt it was critically important to provide the requested reporting information to the different organisations. Thematic analysis of free-text questions on application and reporting identified themes relating to process inefficiencies including streamlining and alignment of systems, lack of understanding of processes including a need for improved communication and feedback from organisations with clear explanations about what information is needed, when and why, the support required by respondents and the time, effort and impact on workload and well-being.

Conclusions

Through this study, we were able to identify funding processes that are considered by some to be effortful, but necessary, as well as those that were perceived as unnecessary, complex and repetitive, and may waste some researchers time and effort and impact on well-being. Possible solutions to increase efficiency and enhance value in these processes were identified.
Maternal and household factors affecting the dietary diversity of preschool children in eastern Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Roba Aklilu Abrham , Başdaş Öznur , Brewis Alexandra , Roba Kedir Teji
Published: March 2024

Objective

Investigate the association between the dietary diversity of preschool children and proximate factors including household food insecurity, maternal food choice, preferences, khat use, and levels of depressive symptoms.

Design

Cross-sectional survey of randomly selected households.

Setting

Haramaya Health and Demographic Surveillance site in Eastern Ethiopia, predominantly smallholder farming households.

Participants

678 preschool children (24–59 months) and their mothers.

Methods

The key outcome, the adequacy of dietary diversity of preschool children, was calculated using a 24-hour parental dietary recall. Binary logistic regression was then used to identify maternal and household factors associated with dietary adequacy versus inadequacy.

Results

The majority (80.53%) of surveyed children had low dietary diversity (mean Dietary Diversity (MDD)) score of 3.06±1.70 on a 7-point scale). Approximately 80% of households exhibited food insecurity. Households with greater food security (adjusted OR (AOR)=1.96, 95% CI 1.19 to 3.23), healthier maternal food choice (AOR=2.19, 95% CI 1.12 to 4.31) and broader maternal food preferences (AOR=4.95, 95% CI 1.11 to 21.95) were all associated with higher dietary diversity of their preschool children (p≤0.05). Other covariates associated with adequate child dietary diversity included improved household drinking water sources (AOR=1.84, 95% CI 1.16 to 2.92) and family planning use (AOR=1.69, 95% CI 1.00 to 2.86). Despite predictions, however, maternal depression and khat consumption were not identified as factors.

Conclusions

The dietary diversity of preschool children is extremely low—a pattern observed in both food-secure and food-insecure households. Key factors include maternal selection of food for convenience and ease, preferences that do not include animal protein or healthier food choices, and lack of access to improved drinking water sources. Interventions around maternal food choice and preferences could improve preschool children’s nutritional health.
Reflections on a chromic oxide paper 44 years later: most cited paper in 99-year history of the Canadian Journal of Animal Science
Authors: Fenton T.W. , Fenton Mirjana
Published: March 2024

This article gives the background that led to publication of the paper “An improved procedure for the determination of chromic oxide in feed and feces”, Can. J. Anim. Sci. 59: 631–634 (Sept. 1979) .
Data Communication Algorithm of HPDB Parallel Database System Based on Computer Network
Authors: Ma Zhiqiang
Published: March 2024

High-Performance Database (HPDB) is designed to meet the demands of today’s modern data-driven world, as massive volumes of information need to be accessed and analyzed with minimal latency. A pivotal aspect of their operation lies in efficient data communication among nodes in a computer network, which is essential for parallel database systems. HPDBs may involve distributed architectures and parallel database systems to store and process data across multiple nodes or servers in a network. Hence, an algorithm called Hybridized Partitioning Strategy (HPS)-based Communication (C) for achieving HPDB has been proposed to facilitate data transmission and coordination across a computer network using the Message Passing Interface (MPI) protocol. The proposed HPS-C-HPDB technique includes partitioning and distributing data, query routing, and load balancing strategies to achieve high-performance levels. The (HPS) combines hash and range partitioning methods for effective processing and retrieval to balance data distribution, reduce communication overhead in parallel databases, and improve the system’s performance. In parallel database systems, query routing effectively routes requests into the optimal nodes or partitions based on the query’s conditions and the data’s placement and guarantees efficient data processing and retrieval. The proposed scheme is evaluated using various performance metrics like throughput, response time, speedup, and communication overhead analysis.
Self-propelled collective motion with multiplicative scalar noise
Authors: Haghsheno Fatemeh , Mehrafarin Mohammad
Published: March 2024

The emergence of order from initial disordered movement in self-propelled collective motion is an instance of nonequilibrium phase transition, which is known to be first order in the thermodynamic limit. Here, we introduce a multiplicative scalar noise model of collective motion as a modification of the original Vicsek model, which more closely mimics the particles’ behavior. We allow for more individual movement in sparsely populated neighborhoods, the mechanism of which is not incorporated in the original Vicsek model. This is especially important in the low velocity and density regime where the probability of a clear neighborhood is relatively high. The modification, thus, removes the shortcoming of the Vicsek model in predicting continuous phase transition in this regime. The onset of collective motion in the proposed model is numerically studied in detail, indicating a first-order phase transition in both high and low velocity/density regimes for systems with comparatively smaller size which is computationally desirable.
Functional Shift-Induced Degenerate Transcritical Neimark–Sacker Bifurcation in a Discrete Hypercycle
Authors: Fontich Ernest , Guillamon Antoni , Perona Júlia , Sardanyés Josep
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we investigate the impact of functional shifts in a time-discrete cross-catalytic system. We use the hypercycle model considering that one of the species shifts from a cooperator to a degrader. At the bifurcation caused by this functional shift, an invariant curve collapses to a point [Formula: see text] while, simultaneously, two fixed points collide with [Formula: see text] in a transcritical bifurcation. Moreover, all points of a line containing [Formula: see text] become fixed points at the bifurcation and only at the bifurcation in a degenerate scenario. We provide a complete analytical description of this degenerate bifurcation. As a result of our study, we prove the existence of the invariant curve arising from the transition to cooperation.
A fundamental approach to corporate bond options
Authors: Simozar Saied
Published: March 2024

It is well known that interest rates and credit spreads are negatively correlated. Any successful model for pricing callable corporate bonds has to take this correlation into account. A new approach for the analysis of corporate bond options is developed by using two correlated geometric Brownian motion (GBM) processes for the spread and interest rate components of corporate bond yields. Analysis of the results and comparison with market prices suggest that the traditional methods of calculating the option premium overestimate the value of the call option. Our analysis can also explain why risk neutral credit spreads are significantly wider than implied by default probability and in fact justify higher spreads.
Recoverable Privacy-Preserving Image Classification through Noise-like Adversarial Examples
Authors: Liu Jun , Zhou Jiantao , Tian Jinyu , Sun Weiwei
Published: March 2024

With the increasing prevalence of cloud computing platforms, ensuring data privacy during the cloud-based image-related services such as classification has become crucial. In this study, we propose a novel privacy-preserving image classification scheme that enables the direct application of classifiers trained in the plaintext domain to classify encrypted images without the need of retraining a dedicated classifier. Moreover, encrypted images can be decrypted back into their original form with high fidelity (recoverable) using a secret key. Specifically, our proposed scheme involves utilizing a feature extractor and an encoder to mask the plaintext image through a newly designed Noise-like Adversarial Example (NAE). Such an NAE not only introduces a noise-like visual appearance to the encrypted image but also compels the target classifier to predict the ciphertext as the same label as the original plaintext image. At the decoding phase, we adopt a Symmetric Residual Learning (SRL) framework for restoring the plaintext image with minimal degradation. Extensive experiments demonstrate that (1) the classification accuracy of the classifier trained in the plaintext domain remains the same in both the ciphertext and plaintext domains; (2) the encrypted images can be recovered into their original form with an average PSNR of up to 51+ dB for the SVHN dataset and 48+ dB for the VGGFace2 dataset; (3) our system exhibits satisfactory generalization capability on the encryption, decryption, and classification tasks across datasets that are different from the training one; and (4) a high-level of security is achieved against three potential threat models. The code is available at
https://github.com/csjunjun/RIC.git
.
MVR Delay: A Queueing Based Routing Model for C-V2X Mode 4 in VANET’s
Authors: Kabbur Mahabaleshwar , Murthy M. Vinayaka
Published: March 2024

During the last few years, the demand for vehicular ad-hoc networks (VANET) has gained great attraction in the intelligent transport system. The VANET architecture includes several critical features, such as distributed networking and the rapidly changing network topology. Due to the significant characteristics of road safety, it has gained a great deal of interest in industry and academia to enhance the safety of the road transport system. Efficient message exchange between vehicles and roadside units is a tedious task in VANET. Several techniques have been introduced to improve communication, but efficient packet delivery and delay reduction are challenging issues. Currently, the VANET technique has evolved as a “vehicle-to-everything (V2X)” communication standard. In addition, the 3GPP standards have introduced a new communication standard as an alternative to the IEEE 802.11p system. In this new release of 3GPP, two new communication modes are introduced, mode 3 and mode 4. Mode 3 requires a cellular infrastructure, whereas mode 4 can operate without cellular coverage. In this work, we focus on C-V2X mode 4 communications and present a novel routing scheme to deal with hidden terminal problems. The proposed approach generates a virtual queueing model in which efficient channel selection is performed so that packet collision and interference can be reduced by maximizing the distance in the virtual queue model. The experimental results demonstrate that the average performance of the proposed approach is obtained as 0.9383, 0.09 s, and 0.0617 in terms of packet delivery, end-to-end delay, and packet drop rate, respectively.
Improved Model Predictive Speed Control of a PMSM via Laguerre Functions
Authors: Abdissa Chala Merga
Published: March 2024

This paper proposes a model predictive speed control strategy for a surface-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor by applying Laguerre functions. The model predictive controller (MPC) incorporates an integrator. A quadratic programming procedure is applied to solve the constrained optimization problem online. The paper also provides a solution for stability. The performance efficiency of the proposed scheme is validated by comparing the results with the performance of an optimal linear quadratic regulator, conventional state-space model predictive control, and a simple MPC algorithm with integral action. Extensive simulation results confirm the efficacy of the proposed scheme, showing that it achieves good steady-state performance while maintaining a fast dynamic response.
SerpinB3/B4 Abates Epithelial Cell‐Derived CXCL8/IL‐8 Expression in Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps
Authors: Bu Xiangting , Wang Ming , Yuan Jing , Song Jing , Luan Ge , Yu Jiaqi , Wang Yang , Li Ying , Wang Chengshuo , Zhang Luo
Published: March 2024

Background. Serine proteinase inhibitors, clade B, member 3 (SerpinB3) and B4 are highly similar in amino acid sequences and associated with inflammation regulation. We investigated SerpinB3 and B4 expression and their roles in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). Methods. The expression of SerpinB3 and B4 in nasal mucosa tissues, brush cells, and secretions from CRSwNP patients was measured, and their regulation by inflammatory cytokines were investigated. Their functions were also analyzed using air–liquid interface (ALI)‐cultured primary human nasal epithelial cells (HNECs) and transcriptomic analysis. Results. Both SerpinB3 and B4 expression was higher in nasal mucosa, brush cells, and secretions from eosinophilic (E) CRSwNP and nonECRSwNP patients than in healthy controls. Immunofluorescence staining indicated that SerpinB3 and B4 were primarily expressed in epithelial cells and their expression was higher in CRSwNP patients. SerpinB3 and B4 expression was upregulated by interleukin‐4 (IL‐4), IL‐5, IL‐6, and IL‐17a. Transcriptomic analysis identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in response to recombinant SerpinB3 and B4 stimulation. Both the DEGs of SerpinB3 and B4 were associated with disease genes of nasal polyps and inflammation in DisGeNET database. Pathway enrichment indicated that downregulated DEGs of SerpinB3 and B4 were both enriched in cytokine–cytokine receptor interactions, with CXCL8 as the hub gene in the protein–protein interaction networks. Furthermore, CXCL8/IL‐8 expression was downregulated by recombinant SerpinB3 and B4 protein in ALI‐cultured HNECs, and upregulated when knockdown of SerpinB3/B4. Conclusion. SerpinB3/B4 expression is upregulated in nasal mucosa of CRSwNP patients. SerpinB3/B4 may play an anti‐inflammatory role in CRSwNP by inhibiting the expression of epithelial cell‐derived CXCL8/IL‐8.
Supplementary Table 2 from Immune Profiling of Vulvar Squamous Cell Cancer Discovers a Macrophage-rich Subtype Associated with Poor Prognosis
Authors: Condic Mateja , Rohr Andrea , Riemann Soheila , Staerk Christian , Ayub Tiyasha H. , Doeser Anna , Zillinger Thomas , Merkelbach-Bruse Sabine , Buettner Reinhard , Barchet Winfried , Rudlowski Christian , Mustea Alexander , Kübler Kirsten
Published: March 2024

Supplementary Table 2 summarizes fluorescently labeled antibodies.
FIGURE 3 from Immune Profiling of Vulvar Squamous Cell Cancer Discovers a Macrophage-rich Subtype Associated with Poor Prognosis
Authors: Condic Mateja , Rohr Andrea , Riemann Soheila , Staerk Christian , Ayub Tiyasha H. , Doeser Anna , Zillinger Thomas , Merkelbach-Bruse Sabine , Buettner Reinhard , Barchet Winfried , Rudlowski Christian , Mustea Alexander , Kübler Kirsten
Published: March 2024

High numbers of stromal CD163+ TAMs are associated with adverse outcome. A, CD163 immunoreactivity was recorded intratumorally as in Fig. 1B; data are presented as mean immunoreactivity normalized to tissue compartments in percent. Cutoff values were determined using median CD163 expression to classify low-risk and high-risk groups; Kaplan–Meier curves are shown for each risk tier; log-rank test results are reported. B, CD163 immunoreactivity was recorded in the stroma as in A; Kaplan–Meier curves are shown for each risk tier; log-rank test results are reported.
The relation of complex problem solving with reflective abstraction: a systematic literature review
Authors: Ulia Nuhyal , Waluya Stevanus Budi , Hidayah Isti , Pujiastuti Emi
Published: March 2024

Complex problem solving (CPS) is a new paradigm in solving problems and is one of the soft skills needed to face the industrial revolution 4.0. Reflective abstraction is associating and modifying pre-existing conceptions into new situations. This article reviews research on CPS and reflective abstraction. This research is needed to know the relationship between reflective abstraction and CPS. The systematic writing of this review was assisted by the Publish or Perish 7 application, Mendeley, and VOSviewer. A literature search was performed through the ScienceDirect and ERIC databases. Based on the search results with the term “complex problem solving” and several exclusion criteria, 58 articles were found, whereas with the word “reflective abstraction” there were 23 articles, totaling 81 papers. Based on the literature review, it was found that there is a relationship between CPS and reflective abstraction by obtaining common ground in the form of prior knowledge. CPS requires prior knowledge from reflective abstraction to integrate the most relevant information. To improve CPS, efforts and special attention can be made to build initial knowledge through reflective abstraction. This article contributes to further research and becomes a study for the themes of CPS and reflective abstraction in learning and education.
The 21st-century skills scales: many facet Rasch measurements
Authors: Kholili Ma'rifatin Indah , Dewantoro Adi , Surur Naharus , Hapsari Novita Tri
Published: March 2024

This study aims to develop a 21st century skills scale for prospective school counselor. The method used is the research and development. The data were analyzed using content analysis/expert judgment with many-facet Rasch model (MFRM). Three facets were employed: scale, item, and measurement criteria. The initial version of the scale comprises 129 items measuring four aspects: way of thinking, way of working, tools for working, and living in the world. However, 78 items were deemed valid following the expert judgment analysis result. The inter-rater agreement opportunity shows raters’ similarity score of 10,836, implying that experts in this study tend to give similar assessments. This research results in a 21st century skills scale for prospective school counselors with a total of 78 valid items. The purpose of this study was to develop a 21st century skills scale for prospective school counselors that had been fulfilled, the instrument had been tested for validity and reliability based on expert judgment. The current research recommends that further research be carried out to develop a 21st century skills scale instrument for prospective educators in other scientific fields.
The effectiveness of parental assistance-based online learning model on self-efficacy
Authors: Sapta Andy , Alim Muhammad Aizuddin Ab , Jameel Ami Hibatul , Gafur Abd
Published: March 2024

The obstacles experienced during online learning are inevitable circumstances. Hence, students need to have motivational beliefs that they have the ability to thrive in online learning despite its difficulties. Applying parental-based online learning is expected to help students increase their self-efficacy. This study examines the effect of using an online learning model based on parental assistance on students’ self-efficacy with a quantitative approach. This type of research is quasi-experimental, with a pre and post-test control group design by studying seventh-grade students in several public junior high schools in Kisaran. The study found that applying an online learning model based on parental assistance improved students’ self-efficacy more than a conventional online learning model. Consequently, parental assistance will make a practical contribution to the implementation of learning, especially in the implementation of online learning in the era of the pandemic and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Early childhood education pre-service teachers’ perception of outdoor learning
Authors: Ne'matullah Khairul Firdaus , Mee Rita Wong Mee , Talib Nabilah Abd , Pek Lim Seong , Amiruddin Saturia , Ismail Md Rosli
Published: March 2024

Outdoor learning encompasses a wide range of educational activities, from local natural play areas to formal school curriculum classes. Despite growing evidence of its benefits, outdoor learning is still underutilized in Malaysia’s early childhood education system. Hence, this study aims to investigate preservice teachers’ perceptions of the impact of outdoor learning on children’s well-being since future teachers’ perception is the most important indicator in predicting their intention to use it in the future. A quantitative approach was used, and the questionnaire was distributed to 63 pre-service teachers studying at Universiti Selangor, Malaysia. Based on the findings, the majority of respondents agree that outdoor learning benefits children’s well-being, especially their social and psychosocial well-being. Thus, this study provides insight into the significance of outdoor learning on children’s learning experiences and that it should be utilized more frequently in the classroom.
The influence of student’s mathematical beliefs on metacognitive skills in solving mathematical problem
Authors: Suliani Mega , Juniati Dwi , Lukito Agung
Published: March 2024

The current research aimed to understand the effect of mathematical beliefs of middle school students on their metacognitive skills in solving mathematical problems. In examining the matter, the study utilized a mixed method. In the first step, a linear regression test was utilized to determine the effect of belief on students’ metacognitive skills in solving geometry problems. Furthermore, a qualitative approach was used to compare the metacognitive skills of high and low-belief students. This study involved 72 middle school students sitting in the 8th grade at Tarakan 1 State Junior High School. Based on the linear regression results, it is known that students’ beliefs positively influenced their metacognitive skills in solving geometric problems. Furthermore, it was found that when both selected subjects with high and low beliefs started solving the problems, they started by planning. Then, they monitored what they had done, but there were differences in evaluating the solutions. Additionally, students who believe strongly in problem solving will be more aware of what they are thinking and thus have an impact on improving their learning outcomes.
Differentiated instruction in reading in elementary schools: a systematic review
Authors: Achmad Widya Karmila Sari , Rachman Sidrah Afriani , Aras Latri , Amran Muhammad
Published: March 2024

Increasingly diverse learners in today’s classroom might require teachers to implement differentiated instruction (DI) to create an effective learning process. This systematic review provides an overview of how DI was implemented in reading instruction in elementary education. For this purpose, the researchers systematically searched five databases (APA PsycINFO, Education Research Complete, ERIC, Scopus, and Web of Science). Based on the inclusion criteria, 28 empirical studies from 2002 to 2022 were selected for review. To be included in the review, the studies should be empirical, written in English, peer-reviewed, focusing on reading in elementary education, and include students with or without disabilities. The researchers created content coding in Microsoft Excel spreadsheet to extract relevant information from the selected studies. The findings indicated that implementing DI in reading instruction to elementary school students includes differentiation in content, process, and product, increased quality and quantity of explicit reading instruction, assessments informed instructions, and integrating DI with other instructional models. This emphasizes that although differentiation might seem complex, it is possible to implement it in reading instruction.
Domestication theory in action: Indonesian Twitter corpus analysis during distance learning
Authors: Meilinda Nurly , Sarwono Billy K. , Salamah Ummi
Published: March 2024

This research aims at analyzing how COVID-19 discourse in the world of education unfolds in the Indonesian Twittersphere by separating public discourse in transition periods, large-scale social restrictions (PSBB), and imposition of emergency restrictions toward community activities (PPKM) and PPKM level 1 to 4. This research used qualitative approach and employed the Domestication Theory to provide a deeper understanding of how individuals integrate technology into their everyday lives. The dataset consisting of 3,196,627 tweets from two keywords and two hashtags was collected and analyzed using corpus linguistics techniques. This study found the emergence of the five main theme groups suggests that users have tried to make sense of and adapt to this new digital learning environment, while also expressing their frustrations and concerns. This highlights the importance of understanding how users domesticate technology and incorporate it into their social and cultural practices. The practical implications of this research include the need to address not only the technical aspects of online learning but also the psychological and social well-being of students, as they navigate this new learning environment.
Seeking higher order construction of cognitive abilities in a psychosocial learning environment
Authors: Jamaluddin Nor Sa’adah , Yusof Rohaila , Ahmad Noor Lela , Kadir Suhaida Abdul , Abdullah Arnida , Alias Siti Noormi
Published: March 2024

In this study, we created a psychosocial learning environment consisting of five types of interaction, namely: student collaboration; specific learning objectives and curriculum coherence; learning facilities; independent learning; and constructivist instruction. This research aimed to determine the scope in which the five modes of contact improved students’ learning outcomes in higher order cognitive abilities. This quantitative study involved form four accounting students (N=352) in Malaysia who completed a self-administered questionnaire that included the higher order cognitive abilities (HOCA) test, the instruments of students’ perceived learning environment, and zone-specific demographic data. The results showed two of the five inventory of students’ perceived learning environment (ISPLE) scores. Specific learning objectives and curriculum coherence, were the most significant predictors and strongly correlated with higher order cognitive abilities. Even the components of the psychosocial learning environment impact HOCA in most subjects. However, researchers have obtained new findings that explain other factors that need to be studied to evaluate or encourage HOCA in accounting subjects. Thus, the researcher suggests further research using self-learning methods through modules to assess and promote HOCA in accounting.
The challenges of implementing cultural-based teaching in remedial education: analyses and recommendations
Authors: Anuas Salehuddin Al As , Nasri Nurfaradilla Mohamad , Alias Aliza
Published: March 2024

In remedial education, teachers play a crucial role in ensuring students from diverse backgrounds master language literacy skills. The current implementation of cultural-based teaching is perceived as an effort to assist remedial students from diverse backgrounds and cultures to learn effectively. The study aims to analyze teachers’ perceptions of challenges in implementing cultural-based teaching in remedial education for language literacy. The study employed a quantitative approach by distributing questionnaires to 252 remedial teachers recruited randomly from primary schools in the Malaysian middle-state zone. The collected data were evaluated descriptively, and the results revealed that these teachers experienced challenges in four areas, namely teaching resources, remedial curricula, teacher knowledge, and time allocation. Moreover, the findings demonstrated that demographic factors, such as gender, school location, and years of teaching experience, did not produce significant impacts on the aforementioned challenges. Simultaneously, this study explored teachers’ perceptions of recommending culturally responsive teaching approaches in remedial education as an alternative to the current cultural-based teaching methodology.
Undergraduates’ experience and satisfaction of massive open online course in Malaysia
Authors: Attan Mohd Nizam , Abd Hamid Aizathul Hani , Abdullah Muhaymin Hakim , Md Yunus Marzudi , Mansur Akhmad
Published: March 2024

While massive open online course (MOOC) is gaining popularity, studies have shown how negative user experience of the learning platform can lead to issues related to poor learning performance. OpenLearning, as the official national coordinated MOOCs program for higher education institutions in Malaysia, is still considerably gaining momentum in this country, thus much can still be observed in the usability aspect of this platform from the student’s perspective. This study aimed to evaluate the aspects of user experience and learning satisfaction of MOOC OpenLearning involving undergraduate students in a public university in Malaysia. Data were gathered through the online survey method which adapted questions from the user experience questionnaire (UEQ) and the usefulness, satisfaction, and ease of use (USE) questionnaire. Descriptive analyses revealed moderate positive levels of user experience and learning satisfaction towards MOOC OpenLearning among the respondents. Furthermore, there was a significant positive correlation between both factors, suggesting the importance of considering user experience as the key factor in enhancing students’ satisfaction with MOOC. Recommendations arising from the students’ perceptions and concerns on the usability aspect contribute towards developing strategic guidelines for enhancing students’ learning experiences, especially during circumstances that necessitate effective online learning strategies.
An Indonesian-version of the short attitude toward mathematics inventory: a voice from pre-service chemistry teacher
Authors: Saputra Andrian , Tania Lisa
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to examine the validity of the Indonesian version of the short attitude toward mathematics inventory (ATMI). The adapted inventory was also used for further analysis to explore mathematics attitude of pre-service chemistry teachers across gender. The original ATMI was translated into Bahasa and distributed to 328 participants via the online survey. After preliminary checking for multivariate outliers, all the data were used to analyze the construct validity of structural model using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Furthermore, multigroup analysis with structured mean modelling was conducted to explore the gender effect toward mathematics attitude. All item means, standard deviations and correlation matrix were also explored. The result found that the short form supported the four-factor solution as the original ATMI. Modification indices, standardized regression weight, and squared multiple correlations were used to determine which items to be removed or retained during analysis until standard criteria for model fit reached. This items deletion produced a shorter version of ATMI (19 items) with fairly good internal consistency, both for all items inventory (α=0.92) or for individual subscale (mean α=0.86). Moreover, the t-test on the latent mean value showed no significant difference of attitude toward mathematics between male and female.
Análise de agrupamento e tendências de mudanças em séries temporais pluviométricas na bacia hidrográfica do Alto Jacuí, Rio Grande do Sul
Authors: Baratto Jakeline , Terassi Paulo Miguel de Bodas , Wollmann Cássio Arthur , Oliveira-Júnior José Francisco de , Galvani Emerson
Published: March 2024

Climate studies in watersheds are very important for the water resources planning and management because they indicate climate extremes potentialities and risks. This paper aimed to identify homogeneous rainfall sectors associated with the evaluation of possible changes trends in rainfall series in the Alto Jacuí Watershed (AJW), Rio Grande do Sul State. Were used annual, monthly, and seasonal data from 27 rainfall with a historical series equivalent to 31 years, between the period from 1980 to 2010. The two main methodologies applied in this research corresponded to Cluster Analysis and the Mann-Kendall (MK) test to identify the spatial-temporal rainfall variability. The cluster analysis dendrogram was generated by the Statistica 7.0 software and the MK test and the climate extreme indicators of precipitation were obtained using the R software. Was verified that the orography conditions the rainfall spatial distribution in the AJW. Was identified the most significant trends were identified for the decrease in rainfall during autumn and winter and for the central-southern region of the study area. These results are important to AJW because they can warn to future water scarcity problems for study area.
Clima e casos de dengue em São Luís, Maranhão, Brasil
Authors: Marques Larissa Rodrigues , Moraes Sara Lopes de , Morato Rúbia Gomes , Rodrigues Zulimar Márita Ribeiro
Published: March 2024

This study aims to verify the association between dengue cases and meteorological variables of temperature, air humidity and precipitation, in São Luís municipality (Maranhão State) from 2013 to 2017 and to calculate the relative risk of these variables for dengue. We obtained monthly mean air temperature (Cº), relative humidity (%), rainfall (mm), and the total of reported and confirmed dengue cases data. To estimates the association between the variables we applied a generalized linear model with negative binomial distribution. The results show that mean air temperature, mean relative humidity and total precipitation monthly was statistically significant associated with dengue cases at the level of 0,01, while season variable was not significant. The mean air temperature had the highest relative risk for the dengue cases occurrence. The results indicate that climatic factors can contribute to a higher risk of dengue cases in São Luís. This study can support the development of planning and measures to prevent the disease.