bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Level of Gamification Instruction in Language, Literacy, and Communication Domains for Kindergarten
Authors: Sedillo Mariel Ruamar
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to assess the level of gamification instruction in language, literacy, and communication domains for kindergarten, in private schools, in a highly urbanized city in Central Philippines during the school year 2023-2024. Data for this descriptive study was collected from 34 kindergarten teachers using a self-made data-gathering instrument that underwent a stringent validity and reliability test with scores of 4.51 and 0.848, respectively. The results reveal that teachers’ level of gamification instruction was generally very high. Subsequent analysis indicated no significant difference in the level of gamification instruction in auditory perception and discrimination, oral language, alphabet knowledge, and study skills when grouped by age, area of concentration, length of service, and number of trainings attended. Meanwhile, a significant difference was observed in auditory perception and discrimination, visual perception discrimination, alphabet knowledge, and study skills when grouped by highest educational attainment. Likewise, there was a significant difference in visual perception and discrimination when grouped by highest educational attainment and length of service. Hence, this study recommends professional development for younger teachers, tailored gamified activities pieces of training, and the creation of a climate conducive to learning in the research environment. Keywords: Gamification Instruction, Language, Literacy, Communication, Kindergarten
Level of Coping Mechanisms of Parents of Children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Authors: Eumague Maria Riza Bundoc
Published: October 2024

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) stands as a formidable neurodevelopmental challenge, exerting profound impacts on a child’s academic, social, and familial spheres. Parents of children grappling with ADHD find themselves immersed in a multifaceted struggle, not only contending with the day-to-day management of their child’s symptoms but also grappling with societal preconceptions surrounding the disorder. Thus, this study aimed to determine the level of coping mechanisms of parents of children with ADHD in private schools in a highly urbanized city in Central Philippines for the School Year 2023-2024. This study used a descriptive research design. This study used the validated and trial-tested self-made questionnaire to gather data from the thirty-three parents of children with ADHD. The instrument yielded a validity index of 4.51 and a reliability index of 0.845. The coping mechanisms covered three areas: Emotion-focused, problem-focused, and avoidance-focused strategies. Overall, the level of coping mechanisms of parents was high. Subsequent analysis indicated no significant difference in the level of coping mechanisms of parents of children with ADHD. The study underscores the importance of comprehensive support programs for parents of children with ADHD. These programs should go beyond addressing behavioral issues and incorporate emotional well-being and problem-solving strategies. Through workshops or support groups, parents could learn relaxation techniques to manage stress, communication strategies to foster positive interactions, and positive behavior management techniques. By equipping parents with a diverse range of coping mechanisms, they become empowered to effectively navigate the challenges of ADHD and create a nurturing and supportive environment for their child’s overall development. Keywords: Coping Mechanisms, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder ADHD, Parents
Program Implementation of the Alternative Learning System
Authors: Salem Yolly , Balasote Cynthia
Published: October 2024

Educational stakeholders can enhance the effectiveness and impact of the Alternative Learning System (ALS) programs in providing educational opportunities for marginalized and underserved populations. It is on this premise that this study aimed to evaluate the extent of the ALS program’s implementation in a large school division within Central Philippines for the 2021-2022 academic year. Data needed for this descriptive study was taken from 51 ALS teacher-respondents using a self-made survey questionnaire that passed the rigorous test of validity and reliability. The study’s focus on program implementation revealed that the Assessment of Learning component exhibited a very high extent of implementation, as evidenced by mean scores surpassing 4.5 across all assessed aspects. Similarly, Learning Resources demonstrated a high level of implementation, with the majority of mean scores exceeding 3.5. However, implementing the Learning Environment aspect was deemed moderate, signifying potential areas for enhancement. Regardless of age, both younger and older educators experienced robust implementation in the Assessment of Learning and Learning Resources aspects. Similarly, male and female teachers encountered high implementation levels in these dimensions. While family income did not significantly impact the Assessment of Learning and Learning Resources domains, it did influence the Learning Environment aspect. Specifically, higher-income individuals benefited from a more extensive implementation of the Learning Environment. The study’s outcomes have important implications for designing future capability-building plans and enhancing the educational experience within the ALS program. Keywords: Alternative Learning System, ALS Program Implementation, ALS Teachers, ALS Community Learning Center, ALS Learning Resources, ALS Assessments Negros Occidental
Language Learning Strategies of Maritime Students
Authors: Salde HaDje Jeoy
Published: October 2024

Language learning strategies for maritime students might differ depending on their individual requirements and programs. In this premise, this study aimed to determine the extent of Language Learning Strategies by Maritime Students in a private school in a highly urbanized city in the central Philippines during the first semester of the School Year 2023-2024 as the basis for the language mastery program. The data needed for this descriptive research framework, coupled with statistical analysis to investigate the language learning strategies, was collected from 438 first-year maritime students using a standardized questionnaire. The results indicate that most parents hold graduate-level education, influencing academic environments. Most students are enrolled in a Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation, with a balanced distribution of private and public school backgrounds. The study examines language learning strategies used by maritime students, finding moderate utilization in both direct and indirect dimensions. The study highlights the importance of tailored language learning support in marine education, enhancing language learning practices and promoting practical communication skills for professional endeavors. Moreover, it reveals notable language learning strategy employment variations among BSMT and BSMarE students. BSMT students showed slightly higher engagement in metacognitive aspects, while BSMarE students showed moderate engagement in affective and social strategies. The overall mean suggests areas for improvement in language learning behaviors. The study compares language learning strategies among maritime students and reveals significant differences based on a program of study. Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation students show higher engagement; in contrast, BSMarE students show no significant difference. The findings suggest tailoring specific language learning strategies to enhance students’ proficiency and academic success. Specialized support programs tailored to academic specializations and collaborative efforts among language teachers and faculty across programs are essential to enhancing language learning in maritime education. Keywords: Education, language learning, maritime, strategies, private school, central Philippines
Teachers’ Utilization of Information and Communications Technology in Blended Learning Modality
Authors: Timtim Jay Mark
Published: October 2024

The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) claims that when teachers are trained in ICT and possess a strong digital literacy, they can help students develop higher-order thinking skills, offer unique and innovative ways for them to communicate what they know, and better equip them to deal with the constant changes in technology that occur in both the workplace and society at large. Given this background, this study investigated the extent of teachers’ utilization of information and communications technology in blended learning modality in one of the schools in a fifth-class municipality in Central Philippines during the School Year 2022-2023. The study used a descriptive research design and a self-made questionnaire to gather baseline data from 34 public secondary school teachers. The result of the study showed that the extent of teachers’ utilization of ICT in blended learning modality in software applications and online platforms was high. Furthermore, there was no significant difference in the extent of teachers’ utilization of ICT in blended learning modality when respondents were grouped according to the variables above. Various recommendations were provided to address the lowest mean scores in both areas, like the BLOCKED TIME Program and the utilization of various online platforms like Group Chats and Google Meet, among others. Keywords: Information and communications technology, teachers’ utilization of ICT, blended learning modality
Reading Proficiency Among Grade 7 Learners
Authors: Eligan Baby Jane
Published: October 2024

Analyzing reading competency in children in Grade 7 provides insightful information on learning objectives, cognitive growth, and the efficacy of literacy training. This information has consequences for teaching practices, educational systems, and individual students. This study assessed the reading proficiency of 146 Grade 7 students using a standardized test. The data were statistically analyzed using the mean, Mann-Whitney U-test, and analysis of variance. Results showed that the overall reading proficiency of the students was at a frustration level. When grouped by three different variables, the students’ reading proficiency stayed at the frustration level across all categories. Furthermore, no significant differences were found in reading proficiency when comparing students based on their profile variables. In this context, this paper ascertained the reading proficiency of Grade 7 learners in a public secondary school in a medium-sized division in Central Philippines for the Academic Year 2022–2023. Data needed for this descriptive study was collected from 146 respondents using a standardized instrument from the Oral Verification Test with one reading passage and a 7-item question. The ensuing analysis showed that the reading proficiency of Grade 7 Learners was at the frustration level, a level that signals a need for intervention, support, and reflection on instructional practices. This result calls for a customized reading plan to bring relevance and answer to the needs of the learners who still have difficulty in their reading proficiency level. Keywords: Language education, reading proficiency, word recognition, reading comprehension, Negros Oriental, Philippines
Teachers’ Ancillary Functions and Teaching Performance
Authors: Pido Frencess , Reliquias Ronamie , Bautista May
Published: October 2024

The term “ancillary functions” in the context of education refers to the tasks that teachers carry out that are not explicitly related to classroom teaching, such as serving as subject coordinators, club advisers, sports coaches, coordinators of both co-curricular and extracurricular activities, and community engagement services. Teachers still need to perform actual teaching, yet these services are vital for the school’s daily operations. Along this line, this study determined the level of teachers’ ancillary functions and level of teachers’ performance in a small-sized School Division in Norther Negros Occidental during the School Year 2023-2024. Data needed for this descriptive paper was collected from 66 public elementary school teachers using a self-made survey questionnaire that has passed the stringent tests of Validity and reliability. Data gathered revealed that teachers’ ancillary functions are high for teaching-related (M=4.0382; SD=0.32875) and administrative assignments (M=3.8644; SD=0.40228). Additionally, it was found that there was no significant relationship between teachers’ ancillary functions and their performance. The study calls for the use of differentiated instructions and requires School Heads to practice transparency and fairness in the distribution of ancillary workload to teachers. Keywords: Teachers’ ancillary functions, teaching performance, teaching-related assignments, administrative assignments, Negros Occidental, Philippines.
Reading Difficulties of Grade 4 Learners in the Post-Pandemic
Authors: Nava Alijah
Published: October 2024

The post-pandemic era exacerbated the reading difficulties of learners due to disrupted learning, limited access to resources, and potential gaps in foundational skills. Along this premise, this study analyzed the level of reading difficulties of Grade 4 learners in the post-pandemic. Data needed for the descriptive study was collected from 155 respondents using a self–made 40–item questionnaire that passed the rigorous tests of validity and reliability. Across areas of concern, the level of reading difficulties of Grade 4 learners was found to be moderate. Further, a significant difference was found in respondents’ reading difficulties in word decoding, fluency, reading comprehension, and vocabulary when grouped according to parents’ educational attainment, family income, and number of siblings. However, no significant difference was found in groupings by fluency and sex. These findings call for technical assistance and workshops for teachers to equip them with techniques and strategies in teaching reading and creating a sustainable reading program that will capacitate and strengthen learners’ motivation towards reading, aiming to improve their skills in word decoding, fluency, reading comprehension, and vocabulary. Keywords: Language education, reading difficulties, word decoding and fluency, reading comprehension and vocabulary, Negros Occidental, Philippines
Teachers’ Utilization of Information and Communication Technology and Learners’ Academic Performance
Authors: Omandac Catrina
Published: October 2024

Several novel concepts and understandings in education can result from researching how teachers use information and communication technology (ICT) and how that use affects students’ academic achievement. It is on this premise that this paper aimed to determine the extent of teachers’ ICT utilization and its relationship with learners’ academic in a public secondary school, in one of the districts of a large size schools division in Central Philippines, during the School Year 2023-2024. Data needed for this descriptive study was collected from 42 respondents using a self-made 30-item questionnaire that has passed the rigorous tests of validity and reliability. This study employed appropriate statistical methods based on the stated objectives namely, frequency and percentage count, Mean, Mann-Whitney U-test and Spearman Rho. Data showed a great extent of teachers’ ICT utilization when analyzed regarding instructional delivery and computer peripherals and equipment. Meanwhile, learners’ academic performance was found to be very satisfactory. The results state that the relationship between extent of teachers’ ICT utilization in teaching and learners’ academic performance is interpreted as not significant, the extent of teacher’s utilization of Information and Communication Technology does not affect the learners’ academic performance. The study results call for the teachers to encourage using technology in delivering the lesson, and the higher authority may support the school in providing the needs of the teachers and students and equip educators with tangible abilities to enhance technology integration in classrooms, fostering creativity, collaboration, and continuous refinement of teaching and learning approaches. Keywords: Information and communication technology, instructional delivery, computer peripherals and equipment, Negros Occidental, Philippines.
Difficulties of Teachers in Teaching Reading to Grade 1 Learners
Authors: Abrasaldo Novelyn
Published: October 2024

Reading is the basis for all academic learning. A youngster who struggles with reading may have missed the chance to utilize the educational tools offered by the government and the school system because they need to understand their importance fully (Roque et al.,2023). Along this line, this study explored teachers’ difficulties in teaching reading to Grade 1 learners in selected districts in a large school division in Central Philippines during the school year 2022-2023. Data needed for this descriptive paper was collected from 38 Grade 1 teacher-respondents using a 30-item survey questionnaire that has hurdled the rigorous tests of validity and reliability. The ensuing analysis showed the level of difficulties of teachers in teaching reading to Grade 1 learners was moderate in content knowledge (m=2.51; sd=0.843), low in the availability of teaching and reading materials (m=2.3; sd=0.837), and teaching strategies (m=2.02; sd=0.624). There was no significant difference in teacher difficulties when grouped according to the aforementioned variables. There was a significant difference in the availability of teaching and reading materials when grouped according to age. The study’s results called for regular checking of DLL/DLP and providing proper guidance to teachers on effectively utilizing the Teachers’ Guide alongside supplementary materials from LRMDS. The findings are equally provided. Keywords: teachers’ difficulties, teaching reading, Grade 1 learners
Classroom Management Skills of Public Elementary School Teachers
Authors: De La Torre Meriam
Published: October 2024

Classroom management skills are necessary for public elementary school teachers to keep their classrooms running smoothly. These skills help teachers set clear rules, maintain order, and create a positive environment where students can learn and grow. In this context, this study aimed to determine the classroom management skills of elementary teachers in a Public Elementary School in a medium-sized division for the School Year 2023-2024. Data for this descriptive study was collected from the participation of thirty-nine (39) respondents in one of the large-size schools within a medium-sized division; therefore, Purposive Sampling was utilized using a self-made data gathering instrument that has passed the stringent tests of validity and reliability. Mostly, teachers’ classroom management skills were at a very high level. Subsequent analysis indicated no significant difference in the level of teachers’ classroom management skills. The findings specify that while teachers commonly identify the importance of effective classroom management, there is a need for heading for professional development creativities to support them in refining their skills. As a result, the larger suggestion is the importance of participating in continuous training and resources to allow teachers to expand their classroom management skills, thus nurturing a more conducive learning environment for all students. Keywords: Education, classroom management skills, public elementary school teachers, Negros Occidental
Reading Comprehension of Learners in a Last-Mile School
Authors: Medel Gretchen
Published: October 2024

Analyzing student’s reading comprehension at a last-mile school can reveal valuable insights into a range of educational and socio-economic development. It is along this premise that this paper aimed to determine the level of Reading Comprehension of Learners in a last-mile school in a fourth-class municipality in Negros Occidental during the School Year 2023-2024 as the basis for a contextualized instructional plan. Data needed for this descriptive study was collected from 119 respondents using a 40-item self-made data-gathering instrument that has passed the rigorous tests of validity and reliability. The ensuing analysis showed that learners’ reading comprehension in a last-mile school was average. In literal, inferential, and applied comprehension, learners were found to be at the average level but at a low level around appreciative comprehension. The result calls for the teachers to create and craft more engaging learning and reading materials that suit the background and interests of learners to encourage them to read more and hone their reading skills. They also need to make sure that despite the distance of where the school is located, learners receive quality instructional material. Keywords: Language Education, Literal, Inferential, Applied, Appreciative Level of Reading Comprehension, Negros Occidental, Philippines
Difficulties of Teachers in the Contextualization of the Most Essential Learning Competencies
Authors: Guadalupe Melanie
Published: October 2024

This descriptive study examined the teachers’ difficulties in contextualizing the most essential learning competencies (MELC) in a public elementary school under a medium-sized Division in an urbanized City in Central Philippines during the School Year 2022-2023. It used a validated and reliable self-made questionnaire to collect data from 86 teachers. The results showed that most teachers are younger, married, have taught longer, and hold bachelor’s degrees. Furthermore, data showed moderate teachers’ difficulties in contextualizing MELC according to curriculum and instruction, instructional materials, and assessment. When further grouped by four demographic groupings, teachers experienced moderate difficulties in contextualizing MELC based on the same three constructs above on curriculum and instruction, instructional materials, and assessment. Finally, no significant difference exists in teachers’ difficulties in contextualizing MELC based on the same four demographic groupings and three constructs. The findings suggest the need to equip teachers with the necessary tools and support to create a more engaging, relevant, and effective learning environment that enhances students’ understanding and appreciation of the subject. Keywords: Curriculum and instruction, instructional materials, assessment, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, Philippines.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SYNTHETIC COTTON DUST EXPOSURE AND SYMPTOMS OF RESPIRATORY DISORDERS IN TEXTILE FACTORY WORKERS AT PT X IN EAST JAVA
Authors: Desdiani Desdiani , Soemarko Dewi Sumaryani , Purnama Ahmad Angga
Published: October 2024

Introduction. Respiratory disorders, which range from 1 to 100 μm, are a significant concern in the textile industry. Typical symptoms of cotton dust exposure include chronic cough with or without phlegm, painful breathing, wheezing, nasal congestion, and chest pain. While most research has focused on natural cotton fibers, there is a growing need to investigate the health risks associated with synthetic cotton dust, such as that derived from petroleum-based resources such as polyester. Method. This research employed a cross-sectional design, with 76 respondents. Result & Analysis. The results showed that 21.1% of the workers experienced respiratory symptoms, and 43.4% of the workers were exposed to high levels of synthetic cotton dust. Chi-square test analysis indicated a significant relationship between synthetic cotton dust exposure and respiratory symptoms (p < 0.001; OR 15.1 [3.17 – 73.21]). Discussion. Workers with high synthetic cotton dust exposure had a 15.1 times greater risk of experiencing respiratory symptoms than those with low synthetic cotton dust exposure.
OPTIMIZATION BASED ON SATISFACTION WITH THE USE OF THE NATURAL MEDICINE INFORMATION SYSTEM (SI-OBAL) IN TRADITIONAL MEDICINE SERVICES AT SEMARANG HEALTH CENTER
Authors: Ratu Modestus , Sequeira Delita da Silva , Indrasari Ferika , Asmani Mohd Fadli Mohd , Siwi Mayang Aditya Ayuning
Published: October 2024

Introduction. Public Health Efforts have been regulated in the Minister of Health Regulation on Health Centers, which is an activity carried out by health workers to maintain and improve health and to prevent disease aiming at families, groups and communities. In the context of these health efforts, activities are necessary for the utilization of natural medicines, by facilitating access to reliable information for the treatment of minor illnesses by health workers to be conveyed to the community. One of the works in the form of an application that helps pharmaceutical workers to obtain information on natural medicine quickly and precisely is called SI-OBAL (Sistem Informasi Bahan Alam/Natural Material Information System) web-based which can be used by pharmaceutical workers. The purpose of this research is to determine whether user satisfaction for optimal utilization of SI-OBAL in traditional medicine services at health centers in Semarang. Method. The method used was a prospective survey method with qualitative data measured by number and percentage. The population used was all pharmacy vocational staff working at the health center in Semarang. The method used to measure satisfaction is McLean and DeLone six parameters. Result & Analysis. The results of the research indicate that from the aspect of satisfaction measured, the results are 89.55% of pharmacy vocational staff are satisfied and very satisfied with having accessed SI-OBAL. Discussion. The optimization of health efforts in the community has significantly improved with the implementation of SI-OBAL in Traditional Medicine Services at the Semarang Health Center. This improvement indicates that the system effectively supports their pharmaceutical services, particularly in providing independent care using traditional medicine.
Pengaruh Insentif Pajak terhadap Inovasi dan Kinerja Perusahaan: Tinjauan Literatur
Authors: Baskoro Bimmo Dwi , Simanjuntak Robby , Sudarmadji Sudarmadji
Published: October 2024

In the era of globalization, many countries have introduced tax incentives designed to promote technological innovation and economic growth. This paper aims to examine global tax incentive policies in-depth, with a particular emphasis on their effectiveness in enhancing corporate innovation capabilities and performance. The findings indicate that the impact of such strategies on innovation and performance varies across different types and sizes of companies. While incentives provide a positive stimulus for participants, several challenges in policy design and implementation were identified, including a lack of adequate motivational measures and the complexity of policy execution. By comparing various approaches, this review highlights key elements of an effective tax incentive policy, such as policy flexibility, clear objectives, and support for strong internal management within companies. These insights offer new perspectives for theoretical research and practical recommendations for policymakers and business leaders to refine their tax strategies. Ultimately, these approaches are aimed at establishing conditions that foster technological advancement and economic growth.
Riaffermazione e modernizzazione dei diritti dei contribuenti nella trasformazione digitale
Authors: Del Federico
Published: October 2024

La trasformazione digitale dei rapporti tra autorità fiscali e contribuenti da origine ad impulsi tecnocratici che mettono in crisi lo Stato di diritto. La trasformazione digitale è concepita come alibi per aggirare i limiti posti dalla legge all'esercizio dei poteri delle autorità fiscali. Tuttavia, è possibile trovare logiche di bilanciamento in ambito sovranazionale, giacché l’OCSE, il Consiglio d’Europa e l'Unione Europea mostrano sensibilità per la protezione dei dati personali ed i rischi legati all’uso dell'intelligenza artificiale.
Le nuove prassi valutative del merito creditizio tra GDPR, CCD II e AI Act
Authors: Gaggero  , Valenza
Published: October 2024

La crisi dei mutui subprime ha confermato la centralità della valutazione del cd. “merito creditizio” in ambito bancario. Tale attività, basata sulla raccolta e l’elaborazione di dati, non è stata compiutamente disciplinata dal legislatore, cosicché assumono un ruolo centrale le regole e i principi del GDPR. Quest’ultimo, tuttavia, non risolve efficacemente alcune problematiche, relative principalmente all’uso dei nuovi sistemi di credit scoring basati sull'IA. Tali criticità sembrano essere state però meglio affrontate dalla CCD II e dall’ AI Act.
Unleashing the Future of Smart Homes: A Revelation of Cutting-Edge Distributed Architecture
Authors: Jr Joselito , Martins Luana , Tavares Dhyego , Campos Denivan , Durão Frederico , Prazeres Cássio , Peixoto Maycon , Figueiredo Gustavo B. , Machado Ivan , Almeida Eduardo
Published: October 2024

Recent discussions have delved extensively into Smart Homes, focusing on constructing and integrating services into an architecture capable of supporting the daily routine of the homes of several users and providing a stable operation. When artificial intelligence is added to a development architecture with devices that interface between man and machine, creating a system that operates in conjunction with users becomes a real challenge. How the system may or may not behave in the day-to-day lives of users becomes the genuine concern of developers. This brings challenges to be overcome and decisions to be made. Implementation decisions, division and creation of modules, communications between applications, user actions, communication interfaces, server response times, and other issues arise amidst all the complexity of developing for the real world. Observing the current scenario, we present our proposal for a distributed Smart Home architecture integrated with a third-party SAAS-based cloud service with an extensive catalog of smart devices used in a smart home environment. Our architecture obtains data about devices from users’ homes registered in a third-party cloud, and uses Artificial Intelligence to train a model using the user’s routine based on the behavior and use of devices in the house. The system provides recommendations sent directly to the smartphone or smartwatch to help with user comfort or to reduce energy consumption. This work presents the system architecture, technologies, and communications between services. Ultimately, we list the lessons learned in architectural design, solution coding, module integration, communication with smartphones and smartwatches, and working with intelligent physical devices in the user’s environment.
Radiofrequency echographic multispectrometry (REMS) in rare bone conditions
Authors: Gonnelli Stefano , Caffarelli Carla
Published: October 2024

In recent years there has been a growing interest in radiofrequency echographic multispectrometry (REMS), an innovative technology, free of ionized radiation, that is capable of providing important information on bone status. In particular, REMS has been shown to measure bone mineral density (BMD) at axial skeletal bones with a precision, repeatability and accuracy not inferior to those of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Moreover, REMS may be useful in the assessment of impaired bone quality (e.g., in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus) and to predict fragility fracture risk. Due to these characteristics, REMS could be usefully used in the diagnosis and follow up of rare bone diseases. In 41 adult subjects (mean age 40.5 ± 18.7 years) with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), BMD values at all skeletal sites, obtained using both DXA and REMS, were significantly lower than in controls. BMD by REMS values were significantly lower in patients with types III and IV versus type I OI, whereas BMD by DXA did not differ significantly between the two groups. REMS has also demonstrated excellent diagnostic accuracy in some patients suffering from McCune-Albright or Ehlers-Danlos syndromes. Furthermore, with REMS it is to obtain the real BMD value in the presence of artifacts, and, being free of ionizing radiation, it could be particularly advantageous in children and in women of childbearing age or during pregnancy and breastfeeding. In conclusion, on the basis of these preliminary data, REMS can be considered a precise and reliable technique for the evaluation and monitoring of bone status in individuals with rare bone diseases. KEY WORDS: Rare bone diseases, bone mineral density (BMD), dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), radiofrequency echographic multispectrometry (REMS), osteogenesis imperfecta.
Börsengang und Börsenrückzug
Authors: Bich Sebastian
Published: October 2024

The dissertation's innovative, interdisciplinary approach offers valuable insights for academia, practice, and legal policy regarding the (re-)classification of the initial public offering (IPO) and delisting of a stock corporation. Corporate governance research at the intersection of economics and law helps demonstrate that both phenomena are to be evaluated as a "change of the corporate governance system" in a stock corporation due to their profound legal and factual consequences. A comparative analysis within German stock corporation law and a legal comparison with the English and US systems suggest a classification as a fundamental decision. Stock corporation law must be consistently updated accordingly.
Factors Associated with Intra Hospital Neonatal Mortality: A Case Study of the Neonatology Department at the Regional Hospital Center of Agadir (Morocco)
Authors: El Ghazouani Hanane , Lahlou Laila , Yakini Souad , El Amraoui Oussama , Ziani Yassine , Bouaiti El Arbi , Barkat Amina
Published: October 2024

Background: Neonatal mortality (NNM) has significantly decreased in developed countries. However, it remains a major public health issue and a particular challenge in developing countries, with Morocco being no exception, as its NNM rate remains high. Objectives: This study aims to identify factors associated with NNM within the Neonatology Department at the Regional Hospital Center of Agadir. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study design was chosen. To determine factors associated with early NNM, we employed binary logistic regression in both univariate and multivariate analyses, including all statistically significant variables in the multivariate model. Results: Three hundred and eight deceased neonates were included. The intra-hospital NNM rate was 17.4%, 95% CI (13.2 - 21.7), during the period from 2018 to 2021. A predominance of early NNM (81.8%). 52.3% were females. 47.7% of the deceased had low birth weight. 65.9% of the cases had an Apgar score < 7. 44.2% were resuscitated. The factors that were statistically associated with the risk of early NNM were as follows: Admission age ≤ 1 day (aOR: 17.87; 95% CI: 5.78 - 55.29), neonatal admission age 2 - 7 days (aOR: 6.64; 95% CI: 1.68 - 26.30). Intra-hospital referral (aOR: 4.49; 95% CI: 1.59 - 12.65); emergency consultations (aOR: 4.25; 95% CI: 1.28 - 14.01). Conclusions: Neonatal mortality remains a major public health challenge in Morocco. Different risk factors associated with NNM have been identified. Addressing these factors could reduce neonatal deaths in low-resource countries. For this reason, we need to intensify our efforts to develop reliable and precise approaches.
Clinical Evaluation of a Novel Compression Device For Ultrasound-Guided Repair of Femoral Artery Pseudoaneurysms: A Double-Blind Clinical Trial
Authors: Nekooei Sirous , Nekooei Negar , Nazeri Niloufar , Kermani Zahra , Dehghani Dashtabi Soroosh , Yousefi Rudsari Mohammad Reza
Published: October 2024

Background: Femoral artery pseudoaneurysm is a well-known complication after conventional angiography. Today, the treatment of choice for this condition is noninvasive repair using manual ultrasound-guided compression. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a novel compression device in improving angiography-induced pseudoaneurysm treatment compared to manual ultrasound-guided compression repair. Patients and Method: A double-blind, randomized clinical trial was performed on patients with femoral angiography-induced pseudoaneurysm in the Radiology Department of Ghaem Hospital, Mashhad, Iran. Based on color Doppler ultrasound exams, patients diagnosed with a pseudoaneurysm within 72 hours of angiography were included in the study. Patients were excluded if they had complete blockage, complete pseudoaneurysm thrombosis, abscess, surface tissue infection, or open wound in the area. The patients were allocated to a manual ultrasound-guided compression group or a device-assisted compression group using simple randomization with a sealed envelope method. After collecting demographic data, the patients underwent an ultrasound exam of the groin to determine and record the size of the pseudoaneurysm and the ratio of thrombosis to open lumen. The therapeutic success rate was defined as complete lumen thrombosis after conducting the compression procedure one to three times. Also, the pain score was measured during compression using the Visual Analog Scale based on a scale of 0 - 10. The duration of successful procedures was also documented. The patients were monitored for 6 hours for any side effects. The level of statistical significance was set at P < 0.05 for all tests. Results: The study was performed on 22 patients (13 males/9 females) with a mean age of 65.5 ± 3.5 years divided into two groups of device-assisted (n = 11) and manual ultrasound-guided (n = 11) compression repair. The two groups did not differ significantly in terms of demographic variables or initial ultrasound variables associated with the pseudoaneurysm. The device-assisted compression group was found to have lower pain intensity (5.0 ± 1.0 vs. 6.0 ± 0.8; P = 0.024) and a significantly higher success rate (100% vs. 45.5%; P = 0.004) compared to the manual compression group. None of the patients showed any side effects. Conclusion: This preliminary study showed that the proposed device is completely safe and may improve the success rate while decreasing pain scores during ultrasound-guided compression procedures. Using a large multicenter study design, evaluating the efficacy of the novel device for hemostasis during sheath removal and adding new equipment to the device, such as manometers to apply controlled pressure, are suggested for future studies.
Key Factors for Predicting Appendicitis from Contrast-Enhanced Computed Tomography Images Obtained Through Multiplanar Reconstruction
Authors: Chern Jiun-Ying , Wong Yon Cheong , Wang Li Jen , Wu Cheng Hsien , Chen Huan Wu , Lin Being Chuan
Published: October 2024

Background: The diameter of the appendix is a key parameter in diagnosing appendicitis. The diagnostic threshold for this parameter is 6 mm, originally established through graded compression sonography of the right lower quadrant (RLQ) of the abdomen. However, without corroborative findings from computed tomography (CT), this threshold may not be a reliable indicator of appendicitis. To ensure accurate diagnosis, clinicians should perform a comprehensive, multiparameter imaging assessment of the appendix, rather than relying solely on appendix diameter. Objectives: This study aimed to identify key factors for predicting appendicitis using contrast-enhanced coronal and sagittal CT images obtained through multiplanar reconstruction. Patients and Methods: This single-center, retrospective, cross-sectional study included patients who presented to our emergency department (ED) with RLQ abdominal pain and subsequently underwent contrast-enhanced CT between July 2019 and September 2020. The primary study outcome was pathologically confirmed appendicitis. Two experienced radiologists assessed parameters such as appendix diameter, wall thickness, abnormal appendix enhancement, abnormal appendix content, appendix erection, and periappendiceal fat stranding. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify significant predictive factors for appendicitis. Results: The study included 173 patients (median age: 37 years; women: 86). They were divided into appendicitis (n = 102) and alternative diagnosis (n = 71) groups. Significant differences were observed between the groups in terms of appendix diameter, wall thickness, wall enhancement, luminal content, appendix erection, and periappendiceal fat stranding (P < 0.001). The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity values for an appendix diameter threshold of 7.7 mm were 91% and 82%, respectively. An appendix diameter of > 7.7 mm (OR: 15.3; P < 0.001), abnormal appendix enhancement (OR: 12.5; P < 0.001), and appendix erection (OR: 6.1; P = 0.004) emerged as significant independent predictors of appendicitis. Conclusion: An appendix diameter of 7.7 mm appears to be the optimal threshold for diagnosing appendicitis. Additionally, the detection of abnormal appendix enhancement and appendix erection on contrast-enhanced CT images holds considerable diagnostic value.
Risk Factors and Outcomes of Patients with Pseudomonas aeruginosa Bloodstream Infection in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Caydasi Ozge , Arslan Eyüp , Cetin Ayse Sababli , Yılmaz Karadağ Fatma , Dede Asiye Tuncel , Adiyeke Esra , Gundogus Narin , Ozturk Engin Derya
Published: October 2024

Background: Bloodstream infections (BSIs) caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa have high mortality rates and pose a significant threat to healthcare settings. Objectives: We aimed to investigate the clinical risk factors related to mortality and the development of P. aeruginosa with difficult-to-treat resistance (DTR-PA) BSI in the intensive care unit. Methods: This was a retrospective, single-center study that included patients with P. aeruginosa BSI who were hospitalized between 2020 and 2022. The risk factors affecting 30-day mortality and the development of DTR-PA were investigated using both univariate and multivariate analyses. Results: A total of 140 patients were analyzed. The mean age was (66 ± 17.5) years, and 48% of the patients were male. Previous meropenem use was an independent risk factor for DTR-PA BSI (odds ratio, 2.68; 95% CI, 1.24 to 5.80; P = 0.012). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that the requirement for inotropic support was an independent risk factor for 30-day mortality [hazard ratio, 2.50; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.33 to 4.68; P = 0.004]. Conclusions: Prior meropenem use was an independent risk factor for DTR-PA development. Strict policies for Carbapenem use and infection control procedures are essential to combat infections caused by DTR-PA.
The Impact of United Kingdom SARS-CoV-2 Spike Mutations on Spike-ACE2 Interactions Investigated Through Molecular Dynamic Simulation
Authors: Salehi Zohreh , Hosseinpour Feizi Mohammad Ali , Safaralizadeh Reza , Shahlaei Mohsen
Published: October 2024

Background: A newly emergent betacoronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, poses a tremendous global threat and causes severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2, a major pandemic that began worldwide in 2019. The trimeric spike glycoprotein (S) is located on the envelope of the virus and facilitates the fusion of viral and host cell membranes by interacting with a cellular receptor called angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). In the United Kingdom (UK), a variant of SARS-CoV-2 has been detected using sequencing technology. There has been a significant surge in the number of COVID-19 cases in South East England. These lineages are significantly more transmissible than previously circulating variants. Objectives: The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of UK SARS-CoV-2 spike mutations on its interactions with ACE2. Methods: In this study, the structure of the UK spike protein with multiple mutations, including deletion 69 - 70, deletion 144, N501Y, A570D, T716I, D614G, P681H, S982A, and D1118H, was investigated. The research focuses on studying the impact of these mutations on spike function and its interactions with ACE2 through molecular dynamic simulation. Results: The results indicated that hydrophobic interactions, hydrogen bonds, and double/triple bonds are more prevalent in the mutated spike-ACE2 complex. Additionally, the UK spike-ACE2 complex maintained a consistent conformation throughout the simulation, experiencing minimal changes in structure. The mutant spike protein structure is less stable compared to the wild-type spike structure. Conclusions: Multiple mutations, including deletion 69 - 70, deletion 144, N501Y, A570D, T716I, D614G, P681H, S982A, and D1118H in the spike protein of UK SARS-CoV-2, can affect its interaction with the ACE2 receptor and the transmissibility of this variant of SARS-CoV-2.
THE SWISS CHEESE MODEL AND EXTERNAL AUDITING
Authors: Kesimli İffet
Published: October 2024

Reason’s Swiss Cheese Model (SCM), which is sometimes called the cumulative act effect, is a model used in risk analysis and management. Even though it has been widely used in aviation, engineering, and healthcare; there is no sample of its usage in the accounting field. This study aims to contribute to the prevention of audit failures by applying the Swiss Cheese Model. It can be hypothesized that audit failures can be attributed to one or more of four levels of failure: executive effects, inadequate oversight, suitable ground for flawed acts, and the flawed acts. Audit firms’ countermeasures against failures can be modeled as a series of bulwarks, represented as slices of Swiss cheese. The cavities in cheese slices represent discrete weaknesses in distinct parts of the system and are constantly varying in dimension and setting in all slices. The system, as a whole, produces failures when all of the cavities in each of the slices momentarily align, so that a peril passes through all of the holes in all of the defenses, leading to a failure. Adding more layers of defense—slices of cheese—may help reduce errors and, consequently, failures. This research initiates the literature on the application of SCM in accounting and auditing, thereby contributes to the field.
Sistem Informasi Penjualan Handpone Pada Toko Delta Cellular
Authors: Zahara Rita , Abdussalam  , Imilda
Published: October 2024

Conventional trading, where sellers and buyers meet at certain locations to carry out transactions, is increasingly being abandoned with technological developments. One of the innovations that has emerged is e-commerce. E-commerce allows buying and selling transactions online, freeing from geographical limitations. In this research, attention is limited to the Design of a Mobile Phone Sales Information System at the Delta Cellular Store. The purpose of this research is to understand the information system for selling cellphones at the shop and design a web-based information system for selling cellphones. The research results show that this Mobile Sales Application makes it easier to process transaction data and stock of goods. The development methods used include old system analysis, user needs analysis, system feasibility evaluation, process design using the DAD method, data design by designing tables, and user interface design using appropriate designs. This application was built using a web-based programming language with MySQL as the database. The level of accuracy of this application in recording transactions and cellphone stock can be adjusted based on certain time periods, which helps reduce the level of human error. This application can also handle price changes and item additions by allowing users to change this information through the sales transaction form. This application is designed to be simple and uses language that is easy for users to understand, so training in its operation does not require a long time.