bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating Foreign Language Learning Anxiety: A Case of French Students in Ghana
Authors: Nkrumah James
Published: March 2023

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate foreign language learning anxiety amongst French students in Ghana.

Methodology: The study adopted a desktop methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.

Findings: The findings revealed that there exists a contextual and a methodological gap relating to investigating foreign language learning anxiety among French students in Ghana. Preliminary empirical review reveals that that French-speaking students at Ghanaian educational institutions suffer from moderate anxiety. Because the French language system is distinct from their own and the English language system, this may be a source of anxiety. Pre-university exposure to the French language, particularly in elementary and secondary school, may assist to reduce anxiety to a moderate degree.

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Horwitz, Horwitz and Cope’s Theory. The Cognitive theory and the Krashen’s Affective Filter Theory may be used to anchor future studies relating to foreign language learning anxiety. The study will be beneficial to EFL teachers and other relevant stakeholders in establishing policies and strategies to create a conducive environment to allow foreign language learners have an easy time in acquisition of a foreign language.
Body Image: A Study Concerning Teenage Social Media Involvement and Body Satisfaction
Authors: Phan Marilyn , Dinh Ana
Published: March 2023

People have been influenced by social media, through both subtle and explicit means that appearance is crucial to a positive and successful experience as a person. While the message may not be directly stated, the strong implication that society needs to fit the ideal body standard can have detrimental consequences, especially amongst impressionable teen audiences. The social media platform, Instagram, is greatly responsible for this trend due to its focus on photo-sharing. My research investigated Instagram's portrayal of an unrealistic body image and social media's influence over the perception of one's body image. It aimed to answer the question “What effect does social media's portrayal of the unrealistic ideal body have on male and female Californian high school students’ own body satisfaction?”.  To do this, I conducted a survey of reviewing students' body satisfaction before and after reviewing images of popular influencers through Google Forms. I had participants identify social media's portrayal and reflect on their interactions with social media. After analyzing the data, I concluded that while both genders' body satisfaction was impacted negatively by social media, young women were impacted more significantly than young men. The results of this study give insight into how society influences body image and how social media can be used as a method to promote the ideal body standard. It explores males and their experiences with social media more deeply and in comparison to women.
Nannochloropsis Algae Biocathodes Improve Cathodic Energy Losses in Two-Chamber Microbial Fuel Cells
Authors: Adibnia Sahand , George Kevin
Published: March 2023

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are currently being researched as alternative energy sources with promising applications in wastewater treatment. However, in two-chamber designs, cathodic oxygen reduction is slow and limits MFC voltage. Biocathodes, cathodes containing microorganisms, show great promise for improving MFC performance. This study investigated how the microalgae Nannochloropsis affects cathodic oxygen reduction via a thermodynamic analysis of energy losses. Voltage, cathode pH, and cathode pO2 (partial pressure of oxygen) were measured in experimental MFCs containing Nannochloropsis biocathodes and compared to controls containing distilled water or abiotic algae media cathodes. Isolated Nanochloropsis cultures were also assayed. Under open circuit conditions, cathodic energy losses in experimental MFCs were 15% (p = 0.038597) and 19% (p = 0.042435) lower than distilled water and algae media controls, respectively. Experimental MFCs produced 73% higher power at 37% higher current density than distilled water MFCs. While the pH and pO2 of isolated Nannochloropsis cultures increased linearly each day, these measurements were constant in experimental MFC cathodes. This result suggests that participation in oxygen reduction reactions induces a change in Nannochloropsis metabolism, leading to reduced oxygen production and limiting pH changes. Taken together, this work presents a promising new type of two-chambered MFC with lower energy losses and greater power production that can also maintain a constant cathode pH and reveals a new behavior of Nannochloropsis algae in response to oxygen reduction reactions in such MFCs.
The Impacts of COVID-induced School Closures on Inequality in Education Outcomes
Authors: Ma Peter , Wang Ling Zhen
Published: March 2023

I use online math participation and student math progress data from online learning platform Zearn to study the impacts of COVID-induced school closures on inequality in education outcomes using an event study approach. There were sharp declines in online math participation and progress following school closures but both outcomes were back to the pre-COVID levels in 2021 May. The pandemic widened socioeconomic inequalities in education outcomes transitorily, where most of the post-COVID socioeconomic gaps had vanished by 2021 May. Areas with lower income, more students in rural schools, worse computer and Internet access, and less higher education completion (measured by the percent of adults having a B.A.) saw more learning losses but only in the remaining 2020 spring semester.
The Emotional Effects of Extended Breaks on Elementary Students in School Speech Therapy Programs
Authors: Dorman Alexis
Published: March 2023

With the COVID-19 pandemic drastically affecting everyone across the United States and the rest of the world, people of all ages have experienced, and continue to experience, a wide variety of social and emotional challenges. Unforeseen closures have subsequently affected people’s lives, across the globe. Many of these people rely on school, work, and a variety of other special programs for academic, financial, psychological, and emotional support. With lack to these support systems, many are left feeling lost and falling behind.

Language delays are seen in 1.9 to 2.3 percent of children between the ages of two and seven years. (McLaughlin, 2011). With that being said, school speech therapy programs are essential to the success and development of students across the country; especially in cases where private speech therapy is not feasible. Although these programs have proven to be both necessary and important, very limited research have been done on the emotional effects of the specific methods in use.
Effects of Protein Concentration in Fish Feed on Physical and Chemical Water Pollution
Authors: Madireddy Indeever , Brayboy Lynae
Published: March 2023

Nitrates are linked to higher rates of fish mortality. Fish feces discolors water, reducing clarity and affecting the metabolism of organisms. Food eaten by fish is the main source of nitrates and feces. This work studies how protein concentration in fish feed affects the production of wastes that pollute water. It is hypothesized that high protein fish foods lead to more nitrates, less clear water in addition to an increased amounts of trace amino acids entering the water column. Three experiments were performed to determine which food at a 28%, 36%, or 42% protein concentration contributed most to poor water quality. These tests were performed on feces collected from three species of fish, the freshwater angelfish, koi and the tamasaba goldfish. The tests determined that increasing the protein concentration in fish food did in fact increase nitrate levels in aquariums while water clarity and residual amino acid concentration did not necessarily increase. This is significant because it allows for greater insights into fish feeding which are important for the traditional aquarium hobby and aquaculture farms.
Collegiate Athletes and Sexual Assault: Justice for Victims Amid Perpetrator Protections
Authors: Warfel Samantha , Houseknecht Jennifer
Published: March 2023

This research paper reviews existing research and attitudes on the paradigm of a quiet, yet pervasive reality that exists within collegiate level athletics. A reality that defies federal law, and protects male athletes from facing repercussions for perpetrating acts of sexual misconduct--disproportionately affecting young women, typically of college age, and already the most vulnerable to sexual abuses such as assault and harassment. In the US, women face disproportionate rates of sexual assault-- their male counterparts making up the overwhelming perpetrator demographic. But, few know collegiate male athletes, and inter-collegiate athletic authorities and leadership perpetrate and enable these crimes, on college campuses at even more alarming rates. This raises the question of how do the ethical protections provided to collegiate level male athletes in the U.S. accused of sexual assault disproportionately impact the justice of victims? And,  how must stakeholders act to resolve the injustices and disproportionalities that exist? The research findings conclude that  The NCAA and OCR must be held accountable, via an Athlete and Accomplice Accountability Act (Quad-A), a framework devised for a legislative mandate that provides for the eliminations of current “recommendations” for handling sexual assault allegations, in addition to furthered enforcement of victim protections among other facets.
The Growing Flows of E-waste - International and Domestic Policy Reforms
Authors: Wang Alice , Nam Rosemari , Lyons Kathryn
Published: March 2023

In this technologically conscious and advanced age, electronics have been a boon in raising the standard of living. However, there is an insidious monster awaiting us beyond the shiny LED lights and AI programs: electronic disposal in the form of e-waste has been growing at an alarming rate of 3-5% per year and can reach up to 75 megatons (Mt) by 2030 (Forti et al., 2020). Even among those of us who are aware of the problem of e-waste, few bother to investigate beyond the garbage truck that drives away from our homes. Often, this waste is shipped off unprocessed to other countries where waste is nearly untrackable.  E-waste is of particular concern due to the toxic materials that are not found in other kinds of waste. But, due to the economic benefits and convenience it provides for both the countries that are selling and the countries that are receiving the waste, the e-waste issue is multifaceted. This paper will attempt to track the current international e-waste trade through the countries and industries that participate in it. Current international policy towards e-waste is examined with the 1989 Basel Convention marking the first attempt to define and corral e-waste. To truly make lasting changes in the e-waste market, e-waste must be properly defined and regulated with an international standard. Furthermore, the formal recycling industries must be strengthened in all countries with strict enforcement of the rules in countries that export the e-waste.
K-pop and Cultural Appropriation: Influences from the West and Within South Korean Society
Authors: Hong Celine , Cho Harrison , Kinney Diana
Published: March 2023

Korean pop music, or K-Pop, has become an international sensation and a multi-billion industry in just the past 20 years. K-Pop groups such as BTS, Blackpink, and EXO have become household names and carry huge influence on the international youth audience. New cultural products within the K-Pop industry consequently have to cater to fans across all socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds. However, there are increasing accusations against Korean artists of cultural appropriation, or taking the possession and performing elements of a subordinate culture without proper accreditation. Many artists imitate and attempt to profit from marginalized communities, who are criticized and ostracized for performing their own culture. In the West, cultural appropriation manifested from the colonization by the West (and particularly the US) of African American, Native American, and Hispanic cultures. The clear power imbalance between the colonizing and colonized countries defines the parameters of cultural appropriation. However, cultural appropriation in South Korea is more difficult to ascertain due to the country’s complex position within the international community. South Korean companies and the government need to be more conscious and have a united front against cultural appropriation to create media that respects the culture of those all over the world.
Marxist-feminism in North-East India
Authors: Upadhyaya Aditi
Published: March 2023

North-East Indian history is shrouded with complex intricacies and is almost forgotten by the rest of the world. North-East India is also one of the least developed areas in India and only contributes around 2.5% to the National Gross Domestic Product. Within this isolated region lies a dearth of traditions, systems, and injustices, hindering the development and emancipation of its people, especially its women. North-East Indian women are victims of the government, the militia, and the local men around them. They also makeup a very small percentage of the primary workforce in India and are almost invisible in local and national decision-making bodies. This paper focuses on Marxist-feminism as a lens to analyse mainstream Indian democracy, ethnic terrorism, and separatism and advocate for women’s rights. It also proposes a range of possible Marxist-feminist policies that can be applied in this region to guarantee women equal rights and opportunities while simultaneously championing socio-economic development. By bringing about substantial changes in the education system, agricultural practices, military control, masculinist terror groups, foreign influence, resource distribution, and work opportunities, men and women in this region can both prosper and advance. Thus, Marxist-feminism can serve as a crusader framework for the overall development of this region and women’s progress.
Top Portable ECGs in the Status Quo
Authors: Chellarapu Sai Ashutosh , Cavanaugh Chloe
Published: March 2023

Electrocardiograms (ECGs) are devices that measure the heart’s electrical activity. ECGs have shown to identify issues with a person’s heart. It is quite well known that heart disease has been a leading cause of death. Using ECGs for those who have heart issues is crucial for preventing serious implications, but it’s not always possible to have immediate access to a 12-lead ECG used in healthcare facilities. For this reason, it’s important to have a portable ECG that suits the user’s needs. In the status quo, there are many portable ECGs with splendid features offered. However, a deeper dive into the categories of statistical data, mechanical qualities, price, and tech features of these ECGs reveals that we can reduce the number of high-quality portable ECG options available to a select few. Over 10 devices were identified originally. However, the number was reduced to 8 as only those had statistical data. Devices that did not have information about a subcategory or category were excluded in the analysis of identifying the best ECG for their respective categories. The study concluded with identifying AliveCor Kardia Mobile SL as the “winner” of the 8 ECG lineup, with the Microlife WatchBP Home A and AliveCor Kardia Mobile 6L devices following in second and third places, respectively. In conclusion, this study allows the consumer to make an educated decision, based on their preferences, which ECG would suit best for him/her.  

Keywords:  Preventive Care, Heart Disease, EKG, ECG, Portable, Sensitivity, Specificity, Price
Is Free Will Compatible with Lewis’s Account of Time Travel?
Authors: Conchillo Jaime , Oosterum Kyle van
Published: March 2023

Time travel may be possible but whether time travellers are free to do what they want isn’t so clear. It is generally thought that free will isn’t compatible with the possibility of backwards time travel because of the things that time travellers can’t do. Since they can’t create logical contradictions, it seems they can’t do anything to change the past. What does this say about a time traveller’s free will and free will more generally? This paper aims to look through the different views of philosophers to come to a conclusion.

To prove that free will is compatible with Lewis´s account of time travel we will go through incompatibilism and compatibilism, which hold different views about whether causally determined things (like the past) can be compatible with the existence of free will. I will show why a compatibilist view is defensible when talking about free will in the context of time travel.

Through this paper, I will start by looking at some models of time travel. Then I will examine how the logic of time travel commits us to an unsatisfying view of free will. Afterward, I will discuss distinct models of free will and how those may help us understand the problem and then conclude with discussion of a common objection to Lewis’s account of time travel and free will.
The The Role of Industrial Policy in the BRIC Economies: A Case Study of India, Brazil and China
Authors: Saraff Yashasvi , Downs-Tepper Harlan
Published: March 2023

After the very heated debate on industrial policy from the late 1970’s to the mid-1980’s prompted by the success of the East Asian industrial policy practices, the debate collapsed into three decades of neglect. Unexpectedly, however, industrial policy is back on the economic policy agenda and starting to be conceived through a systematic approach that extends beyond market failures. This article contributes to the discussion as it attempts to navigate through the industrial policy debate whilst acknowledging its contribution to the development of emerging market economies, more specifically, India, China and Brazil of the BRIC. All of the BRIC economies, at some stage of their industrialisation have engaged with inward looking policies, more specifically, import substitution policies. This paper, whilst following a critical review format, studies these cases and seeks to identify the implications that the debate, modified in the light of its recent comeback, could have on them.
Diagnosing Breast Cancer Using a Novel Dual-Layered Random Forest with Null Handling
Authors: Sharma Aarav , Nguyen Thuy-Anh
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this project was to determine if I could develop an early and accurate model of breast cancer detection that can decrease the mortality rate of women by using a novel dual-layered Random Forest with Null Handling. Mammograms have an accuracy of about 86.9% and are susceptible to False negatives, and False positives. In order for my model to be trained and tested, the Wisconsin Data for Breast Cancer was accumulated and duplicated. In the duplicated data, random values were deleted. The first random forest is then trained on x% of the processed data. The next random forest is trained on the output of the previous random forest and the processed data. It acted to fine-tune results from the previous model. Lastly, the majority of the votes from the individual random forests led to the cancer prediction. I found out that dual-layered random forests with null values in their training data had an accuracy of 94.4%, which is 7% higher than human accuracy. This model also overcame overfitting. All our dual-layered models or models trained with appended null data worked better than human detection and could be built and tested in under 7 seconds with an easy-to-use interface, allowing for results in the same visit to the hospital. The best model had the first layer of 200 trees, the second layer of 800 trees, and accuracy of over 94% compared to humans with 86.9%. This model is fast, accurate, and can save people’s lives.
An Analysis of COVID-19 Fiscal Policies in the US and Japan
Authors: Gogineni Avinash , Impact College
Published: March 2023

In 2020, the COVID-19 disease created an unprecedented impact on the world. It created a health crisis in many countries, causing a pandemic. Along with the health crisis, most countries fell into an immediate economic recession including the US and Japan. This paper focuses on the fiscal policies used in the US and Japan due to the COVID-19 pandemic-related economic recession in both countries. First, a detailed analysis of the US and Japanese fiscal policies is presented, analyzing their effectiveness. Subsequently, these policies were compared and contrasted to obtain a better understanding of fiscal responses around the world. Overall, this paper aims to provide a new global perspective on the implementation of fiscal policies while also aiding policy-makers in making more educated decisions for future recessions caused by COVID-19 or other pandemics.
Impact of Adolescent Social Media Use on Body Image, Mental Health and Eating Disorders: A Review
Authors: Rajesh Shraddha , Draper Lucy
Published: March 2023

Adolescents are considered vulnerable to negative influences on social media because their use of the medium expands at a time when they are in a transition period in their lives dealing with many other issues such as puberty, exam stress and anxiety about their future. This review focuses on primary research articles exploring the impact of social media on adolescents’ mental health, body image and eating disorder related issues. This review also includes articles regarding how social media can be used to deliver positive messages, recruit vulnerable subjects for early intervention and explore the effectiveness of new treatment strategies. Based on the reviewed articles, it seems  that girls, boys and transgender persons are similarly at-risk from negative social media influence. Going ahead, there is a need to focus on the nature of social media activity rather than just  time spent to identify vulnerable young persons. It is possible that in some cases social media usage can drive a vicious cycle that amplifies negative psychological attitudes  initiated due to social and personal context. Further research is required to explore the role parents and social media platforms can play in maintaining positive attitudes and effecting early intervention programs.
Neg Negative effects of social media on adolescent behavior from self-identity to interpersonal relationships today in France
Authors: Rachidi Tania , Yangzom Dicky
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study is to examine social media usage and its consequences among French adolescents. It will build upon a literature review of previous works. In addition, a descriptive-analytical technique (N=150) will confirm my findings. The study was realized in 2022 in the South of France to demonstrate the consequences of social media on adolescents' behavior and selflessness, especially on their mental health, interpersonal skills, and social engagement. Examining the different reasons why social media hold teenagers' attention and focusing on the negative consequences will demonstrate how technology and phones have shaped teenagers' identities. Lastly, it will show how the social interactions of teenagers and their role into adulthood are predetermined through the increased consumption of mass media.
On Global Immigration Policy: Present and Future
Authors: Yu Morris , Nagle Alverio Gabriela
Published: March 2023

In more ways than one, immigration has proven central to both developed and underdeveloped countries of the world in terms of globalization. According to the World Migration Report, 280 million people around the world are migrants, equaling 3.6% of the world population in 2020, with only more growth expected (International Organization of Migration).  Immigrants from less developed nations traveling to developed nations remain a trend, but not all immigrants travel for new opportunities. While this facet of immigration is mostly public immigration, the nuances of immigrants, emigrants, and their target destinations are a rather complex issue. This paper seeks to examine this interdisciplinary study of migration, exploring the economies, politics, and societies that have built the contemporary migration experience, and reflecting its findings through case studies of immigration policy across different situations sourced from various peer-reviewed studies. In the following sections, this paper will begin to define overall theories and definitions that can be applied to different forms of migration; to examine immigration in context, this paper’s later sections establish real world examples to which these concepts can be applied, from both within and outside of the Western world. This paper concludes that immigration is too big a subject to tackle from one perspective. Though each theory may hold some merit, a thorough analysis of immigration policy requires complex explanations. To this end, this paper seeks to quantify different models of immigration between countries, as well as identify population outcomes when immigrants return to their country.
Exploring Cryptocurrency: How do individual behaviors in the financial world affect the potential of economic bubbles?
Authors: Leong Ren , Benigni Stefano
Published: March 2023

Cryptocurrency has made waves recently with its absurd increase in prices and volume. In this paper, I sought to understand, fundamentally, what factors could have helped its rise to the top. On the other hand, large ascents like this in the past have shown to be fatal, such as the housing market bubble of 2008. It struck me that cryptocurrency seemed to be heading down a similar path, especially with its unpredictable volatility and lack of practical usage in daily life. I explored some of the behavioral trends that are prevalent in finance, and used them to understand the 2008 bubble. I then further explored cryptocurrency behavior to draw comparisons, which were not lacking. By understanding what was behind cryptocurrency’s incredible rise and what behaviors and trends may factor into its volume, I was able to come to the conclusion that cryptocurrency is an asset class that treads dangerously along the lines of forming bubbles.
INFLUENCE OF FERTILIZERS ON ACCUMULATION OF ORGANIC ACIDS AND CARBOHYDRATES IN OXYCOCCUS MACROCARPUS AIT. PERS. FRUITS ON THE DISUSED RAISED PEAT BOGS IN THE CONDITIONS FOUND IN BELARUS
Authors: RUPASOVA ZH. A. , YAKOVLEV A. P. , KRINITSKAYA N. B. , ZADALYA V. S. , BELIY P. N. , SHPITALNAYA T. V. , KOLOMIETS E. I. , ALESHCHENKOVA Z. M. , ANANIEVA I. N. , KARTYZHOVA L. E. , KLISHEVICH N. G. , KARBANOVICH T. M.
Published: March 2023

The results of a 2019–2020 comparative study of accumulation parameters of a number of organic acids and carbohydrates in the fruits of large cranberry when using the ‘Basacote Plus 6M’ mineral fertilizer, the microbial preparation ‘MakloR’ in 5- and 10 % concentrations and non-root treatments with ‘Ecogum-complex’ for growing on recultivated areas of raised peat bog deposits taken out of commercial operation in the Smolevichi district of the Minsk region and in the Dokshitsky district of the Vitebsk region that is located 250 km to the north are presented. It was found that the geographical factor has a significant influence on the concentration of the indicated compounds in the fruits, the degree of which is determined by the plant genotype, the type of fertilizers and the weather conditions of the growing season.

In both studied areas, regardless of the hydrothermal regime of the season, the application of all types of fertilizers had a generally positive effect on the accumulation of carbohydrates in fruits against the background of inhibition of the biosynthesis of organic acids, especially in the southern region, which caused an increase in the sugar-acid index, most pronounced when treated with ‘Ecogum-complex’.
Wanneer medicatie opstarten voor gedragsproblemen bij kinderen met een verstandelijke beperking?
Authors: Christiaens J. , De Meulenaere J. , Dhondt K. , Anthierens S.
Published: March 2023

When prescribing medication for behavioral problems in children with intellectual disabilities?

Factors that determine the prescription of medication for behavioural problems in children with intellectual disabilities. A quantitative research.

Background: Behavioral problems are in children (<12 years) with intellectual disabilities, the most common reason for admission with a specialized doctor. The context often demands if there is a need for medication. Clear guidelines for when medication in this specific population is mandatory are lacking.

Scope: In this research we explore which factors influence the decision making process of Flemish child- and adolescent psychiatrists before they consider prescribing medication.

Methode: Through quantitative semi-structured interviews with Flemish child- and adolescent psychiatrist we gathered data that where analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results: The themes that surfaced relate to an estimation if the resilience of the context is still apt or/and the child’s development is safeguarded. If there is no reason for urgency a diagnostic phase is prior. This phase consists of revealing underlying genetic, somatic or psychiatric problems and unachievable expectations regarding intellectual and emotional capacities of the child. These problems should be appropriately addressed if possible. If no underlying problem is identified or if the needed adjustments are unfeasible prescribing medication is taken in to account.

Conclusion: We can conclude that the themes that surfaced are more or less in line with the NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guideline. This is however a general guideline not specifically targeting children. Using the themes the participants reported we propose a flowchart that could be helpful in the decision-making process when prescribing medication is considered.
Inovasi Pengembangan Kurikulum Pendidikan Agama Islam SD Negeri 10 Ujan Mas
Authors: Oktavia Lia , Deriwanto Deriwanto
Published: March 2023

Hakekatnya pengembangan kurikulum bukan hanya pengembangan komponen-komponen yang ada dalam kurikulum saja, namun juga harus mengacu kepada landasan atau yang menjadi kerangka dasar pengembangan kurikulum. SD Negeri 10 Ujan Mas merupakan lembaga pendidikan di Kabupaten Kepahiang yang berkomitmen untuk memberikan bekal kemampuan dasar membaca, menulis dan berhitung, pengetahuan dan keterampilan dasar yang bermanfaat bagi siswa sesuai dengan tingkat perkembangannya, serta mempersiapkan peserta didik yang memiliki sikap spiritual dan pemahaman agama Islam yang baik. Untuk itu, Tentunya kurikulum harus dikembangkan agar kegiatan pembelajaran akan terlaksana dan tujuan pendidikan akan tercapai, terkhusus pada pengembangan kurikulum PAI. Penelitian ini adalah sebagai jenis penelitian kualitatif untuk mengetahui bagaimana inovasi pengembangan kurikulum PAI di SD Negeri 10 Ujan Mas. Berdasarkan hasil observasi langsung dan wawancara mencdalam dapat ditarik kesimpulan bahwa inovasi pengembangan kurikulum pendidikan agama Islam yang dilakukan oleh SD Negeri 10 Ujan Mas ialah memaksimalkan metode dan strategi pembelajaran yang inkonvensional dan kekinian yang bertajuk teknologi pendidikan. Pihak sekolah pun memberikan perhatian khusus terhadap pengembangan kurikulum PAI sehingga mampu menciptakan output peserta didik yang bertakwa, berakhlak mulia dan memiliki keterampilan berbasis keagamaan yang mumpuni serta memiliki daya saing dengan lulusan sekolah dasar lainnya.
EFEKTIVITAS PEMBELAJARAN BLENDED LEARNING PADA MATA PELAJARAN FIKIH MASA PANDEMI COVID-19 DI MAN SIBOLGA
Authors: Amri Ramdani , Hasibuan Zainal Efendi
Published: March 2023

Latar belakang penelitian ini adalah karena kondisi pandemi Covid-19 telah merubah wajah dunia pendidikan di Indonesia terutama di MAN Sibolga. Dalam melakukan penelitian, MAN Sibolga melakukan pembelajaran blended learning. Oleh karena itu peneliti merumuskan masalah dalam penelitian ini, yaitu: 1) bagaimana efektivitas pembelajaran blended learning pada mata pelajaran Fikih di MAN Sibolga2)Bagaimana pelaksanaan pembelajaran blended learning pada mata pelajaran Fikih masa pandemi Covid-19 di MAN Sibolga3)Bagaimana kesulitan dalam pelaksanaan dalam pencapaian efektivitaspembelajaran blended learning pada mata pelajaran Fikih masa pandemi Covid-19 di MAN Sibolga4)Bagaimana solusi dalam pencapaian efektivitas pembelajaran blended learning pada mata pelajaran Fikih masa pandemi Covid-19 di MAN Sibolga. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui efektivitas pembelajaran blended learning pada mata pelajaran Fikih masa pandemi Covid-19 di MAN Sibolga. Penelitian yang digunakan adalah penelitian kuantitatif dan kualitatif. Instrumen yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah angket yang diuji dengan menggunakan validitas dan reliabilitas serta wawancara. Teknik analisis untuk melihat efektivitas pembelajaran blended learning pada mata pelajaran Fikih masa pandemi Covid-19 di MAN Sibolga dengan menggunakan kuantitatif, kemudian memberikan penjelasan dari rumusan masalah dengan menggunakan kualitatif. Hasil dari penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa pelaksanaan pembelajaran blended learning pada mata pelajaran Fikih masa pandemi Covid-19 di MAN Sibolga berjalan dengan efektif. Karena tingkat efektivitas berdasarkan rumus adalah 64,65%
Comparison of the Pension Systems between Iceland, Netherland, and Thailand: Lessons for the Pension System Reform of Indonesian Civil Servants
Authors: Dewi Kari Septiana , Soeling Pantius Drahen
Published: March 2023

The current implementation of the civil servant (PNS) pension program still has many problems that have a major impact on the adequacy and sustainability of Indonesia's pension system. This study aims to take lessons from a comparison of pension systems in Iceland, Netherland, Thailand, and Indonesia. The results of the discussion provide several recommendations or suggestions for civil servant pension programs which are currently in the process of being reformed. The Indonesian government needs to consider the high transition costs and the performance of pension funds, as happened in Netherland if it wants to change the pension scheme to a defined contribution. Based on this study, the fully funded method that is planned to be implemented does not always reduce the funding burden. Hence, learning from Thailand, civil servant pensioners should consider using a partially funded financing system as an initial step for civil servant pension reform. In addition, the government also needs to consider increasing the minimum retirement age which is determined based on the life expectancy of the Indonesian people. To support this proposal policy (increase the retirement age), so Indonesian government needs also plan programs related to the development of employee skills and competencies. This is very important to keep older employees productive in the workplace or organization.
Does Foreign Exchange Rate Moderate the Relationship Between Foreign Capital Outflows and Economic Growth? A Panel Data Investigation of Kenya’s Economy (1986-2021)
Authors: Macheru Joseph
Published: March 2023

Purpose – This study aims to evaluate the nexus between foreign exchange rate, foreign capital outflow and economic growth in Kenya. This study focused on analyzing the moderating role of foreign exchange rate on the relationship between foreign capital outflow and economic growth in Kenya. The foreign exchange rate is an important measure in the economic development. Its fluctuations affect the levels of foreign capital outflow. The loss of foreign exchange reserve due to foreign capital outflow translates to great amount of savings lost in the country.

Design/methodology/approach – This study employed a Panel Data approach and the World Bank’s residual model in the estimation of the magnitude of foreign capital outflow from Kenya during the period between 1986 to 2021.

Findings – The panel data results revealed that the interaction variable MOD_FER had a coefficient of 0.05 and a significant probability value of 0.0001 which is significant at 5 percent level of significance. This means that foreign exchange rate moderated the relationship between foreign capital outflow and economic growth in Kenya during the period of this study. When the relationship with foreign capital outflow was moderated by 0.05 units then GDP grew by 1 unit. As such, foreign exchange rate is a significant factor in the relationship between foreign capital outflow and economic growth in Kenya.

Originality/value – This study calculates the magnitude effect of foreign exchange rate in the relationship between foreign capital outflow and economic growth in Kenya for the first time. In addition, the study calculates the magnitude change of foreign capital outflow for MNE’s due to foreign exchange rate oscillations. This study suggests many policy proposals to deal with the challenge of foreign exchange rate, foreign capital outflow and economic growth in Kenya. The results of this study will benefit policy makers by providing them with data-based evidence that will guide them in making appropriate policies that discourage foreign capital outflow and institute proper management of foreign exchange rate to boost economic growth in Kenya.
Scientific achievements and priority directions of research development in the breeding and seed-growing of fiber flax in the Institute of Bast Crops NAAS
Authors: Kryvosheeva Larysa , Chuchvaha Vasyl
Published: March 2023

The results of scientific research, the history of the development of breeding and seed-growing of fiber flax at the Institute of Bast Crops NAAS for the period from the beginning of their implementation to the present are given. The results and methods of practical breeding and economically valuable properties of new varieties of fiber flax are presented. Modern problems of breeding and seed-growing work and ways to solve them are highlighted.
History of the research and design field of activities of the Institute of Bast Crops NAAS
Authors: Holoviy Oleksandr
Published: March 2023

The article presents a brief historical overview of the development of the research and development direction of the Institute of Bast Crops of the National Academy of Agrarian Sciences
Effect of Flow on the Corrosion Behavior of Pipeline Steel in Supercritical CO2 Environments with Impurities
Authors: Choi Yoon-Seok , Colahan Martin , Nešić Srdjan
Published: March 2023

Corrosion is a major concern in transmission pipelines that transport captured CO2. While dry CO2 is noncorrosive, significant corrosion has been reported in dense-phase CO2 with trace amounts of water and impurities such as O2, H2S, SOx, and NOx. The aim of this work is to improve our understanding of the physicochemical aspects of the corrosion of carbon steels in the high-pressure environments associated with CO2 transmission pipelines. The effect of flow on the corrosion of X65 carbon steel was investigated in a series of autoclave tests with different combinations of impurity concentrations in supercritical CO2 conditions (8 MPa and 35°C). The corrosion rate of specimens was determined by weight loss measurements. The surface morphology and composition of the corrosion product layers were characterized using surface analytical techniques (scanning electron microscopy, eneregy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, and Raman microscopy). Localized corrosion was measured via surface profilometry after corrosion products were removed. Results showed that no corrosion was observed in the supercritical CO2 with 650 ppmv of water, 50 ppmv SO2, and 100 ppmv NO, but corrosion occurred when SO2 concentration was increased to 4,500 ppmv and 40,000 ppmv of O2 was added to the system. The presence of flow significantly accelerated the corrosion of carbon steel. Furthermore, localized corrosion was observed in the presence of both O2 and flow.
A survival analysis of organizational turnover in the auditing profession
Authors: Hardies Kris
Published: March 2023

This study uses survival analysis to examine employee turnover in the auditing profession. Building on the Job Demands-Resources model, I analyze the impact of job characteristics (demands and resources) and personal characteristics on organizational turnover. The study is based on a survey among a sample of 309 employees who either were or had been employed in the Belgian auditing profession. At any particular point in time, excess job demands (e.g., workload) increase and job resources (e.g., organizational support for alternative work arrangements) decrease the risk of organizational turnover. Higher family involvement (personal demands) is also associated with increased turnover risk.
How Reversibility Differentiates Cyber from Kinetic Warfare: A Case Study in the Energy Sector
Authors: Johansmeyer Tom
Published: March 2023

A pair of attacks on energy sector assets offers a unique opportunity to better understand the differences in impact from cyber and kinetic warfare. A review of the 2021 cyber attack on Colonial Pipeline and the missile strike on the Syvash wind farm demonstrates the principle of reversibility in action, particularly in regard to the short-lived nature of cyber attacks. Within the context of security and strategy, particularly at the cyber/energy security nexus, this means that traditional state security thinking needs to evolve to address threats in the cyber domain rather than try to retrofit dated strategies. The two cases compared offer lessons that can be applied more broadly in the formation of state-level cyber and energy strategic thinking, ultimately improving resilience and the appropriateness of protection.
EPRDF’s State-building Approach: Responsive or Unresponsive?
Authors: Galata Monenus Hundara
Published: March 2023

State-building establishes state-nation(s) [the state that makes diversity and democracy possible] as opposed to nation-building [which urges to create one nation (nation-state) without due consideration of diversity]. Through the institutional, policy and politico-psychological innovations, state-building is geared to accommodate diversity and ensure democratic good governance. In this regard, federal governance has the potential to do so as it combines elements of shared-rule and regional self-rule. Since 1991, Ethiopia has been in the track of state-building project experimenting identity-based federal model on one hand and lavishly adding (un) responsive strategies. This paper argues responsive state-building strategies consolidate federal democracy; foster culture of accommodating and managing diversity; strengthens federal decentralization and resolves conflict in Ethiopia. To the contrary, the paper challenges any unresponsive state-building approach that emanate from government’s ideology, policy, practice on one hand and unconstitutional ways of peoples’ reaction to the state.
Os recursos animais no Noroeste da Lusitânia do período republicano à Antiguidade Tardia (Séculos II a.C. - VII d.C.): Uma perspectiva a partir das evidências zooarqueológicas do centro de Portugal
Authors: Aleixo Patrícia , Vilarinho Gil
Published: March 2023

Este estudo apresenta uma síntese dos dados zooarqueológicos publicados provenientes de sítios arqueológicos localizados entre os rios Douro e Tejo e enquadrados cronologicamente entre o período Republicano e a Antiguidade Tardia. O objectivo é caracterizar a relação das comunidades humanas e os animais nesta área da Lusitânia, de um ponto de vista económico e sociocultural e analisar eventuais alterações ocorridas ao longo de todo o período romano. Os resultados demonstram uma continuidade da importância da pecuária face as actividades cinegéticas. Embora os caprinos sejam as espécies prevalentes, os bovinos parecem apresentar um estatuto importante sobretudo durante a Antiguidade Tardia.
Gender and social outcomes of WASH interventions: synthesis of research evidence
Authors: Macura Biljana , Dickin Sarah , Sharma Waddington Hugh , Liera Carla , Soto Adriana , Orlando Arianna , Foggit Ella , Pross Camille , McArthur Jessica , Fadhila Audinisa , Del Duca Laura , Njoroge George
Published: March 2023

Safely managed water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) are fundamental for human health and wellbeing and are thought to contribute to a range of positive outcomes related to education, livelihoods, dignity, safety, and gender equality. However, gender and other social categories (e.g. age, ethnicity, caste, disability, marital status) can mediate who benefits from WASH services and in which ways. As progress in gaining access to safe WASH services has not occurred equally, there has been a focus on mainstreaming gender equality and social inclusion (GESI) in interventions. Despite awareness in the sector of the importance of promoting gender and socially inclusive WASH services, evaluations of interventions focus largely on technical or health outcomes, while social outcomes are not included. This systematic evidence synthesis aimed to collate evidence on the impact of WASH interventions on GESI outcomes in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). It also aimed to synthesise evidence on violence-related outcomes, and to advance understanding of barriers to, and facilitators of, change in violence-related outcomes in the context of WASH interventions.
Lime juice as a dietary alternative to mist potassium citrate for urine alkalinisation: A prospective, cross-over clinical trial
Authors: Sivananthan Kinagabran , Nagappan Poongkodi , Md Mansor Munirah , Abdullah Usamah , Azman Azlanudin
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Urinary citrate is a potent inhibitor of urinary crystallization that is freely filtered in the proximal tubule of the kidney. We aimed to investigate the effect of citrate supplementation with fresh lime juice on the urinary pH and calcium excretion level among healthy individuals compared with that of mist potassium citrate.
Methods: In this prospective, cross-over single-centre study, 50 healthy medical student volunteers were randomly allocated to two treatment arms. One arm was prescribed with potassium citrate, while the other arm received citrate supplementation with a home preparation of fresh lime juice. The urinary pH and calcium-to-creatinine ratio (uCa/uCr) were measured at baseline and after 7 days of treatment. This was followed by a washout period of 2 weeks, after which each participant crossed over to the other treatment arm, and the urinary measurements were repeated.
Results: Potassium citrate significantly increased the urinary pH among all participants, while fresh lime juice did not. Both fresh lime juice and potassium citrate reduced the uCa/uCr, although this effect was not significant.
Conclusion: Fresh lime juice is not as effective as potassium citrate in improving the urinary pH and calcium excretion level of healthy individuals. Therefore, it should be used as an adjunct rather than an alternative to potassium citrate.