bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Notes: The Deception of Polygraph Testing — As a Test for Deception
Authors: Daniels Reynaud , Phillips Jeremy
Published: January 2024

Polygraph testing is a common tool utilised by employers to investigate suspected misconduct and maintain discipline in the workplace. It delivers a definitive answer one way or another on whether a suspected employee is guilty. However, it does not do so accurately or reliably. Experts have estimated that about half of the time, the polygraph returns a false negative, which often leads to disciplinary action, and even dismissal. For this reason, the Labour Court and Labour Appeal Court have warned against the admission of polygraph evidence, and the weight attributed to it. Despite this, commissioners (and occasionally judges) afford polygraph evidence far greater status than deserved or permitted. Its evidential yield is so negligible, and its results so unreliable, that its admission as evidence cannot be justified.
Notes: Breathalyser and Laboratory Blood Samples as Evidence for Dismissal: A Critical Analysis of Samancor Chrome Ltd (Western Chrome Mines) v Willemse & others (2023) 44 ILJ 2013 (LC)
Authors: Phungula Simphiwe P
Published: January 2024

To discourage the existence of alcohol in the workplace, employers develop policies that provide for the dismissal of employees found with alcohol in their bloodstream. Some employers set the bar higher by adopting an approach that allows the employer to dismiss the employee for the mere presence of alcohol in an employee’s bloodstream. This raises several issues, focused on in this note, including, inter alia, the extent to which breathalyser results may be legally challenged; the reasonableness of policies determining the level of accepted alcohol limits in an employee’s bloodstream; as well as the reasonableness of sanctions imposed by employers.
Notes: The Exclusion of Vicarious Liability of Employers for the Intentional Unlawful Conduct of their Employees: Fujitsu Services Core (Pty) Ltd v Schenker SA (Pty) Ltd [2023] ZACC 20
Authors: le Roux Rochelle
Published: January 2024

The question whether employers can exclude their vicarious liability for the intentional unlawful conduct of their employees in exemption clauses came to the fore in litigation between Fujitsu and Schenker. The High Court found that Schenker, whose employee stole Fujitsu’s property, was vicariously liable and that it could not be exempted by a widely formulated exemption clause not specifically including theft. The Supreme Court of Appeal and the Constitutional Court held that the exemption clause indeed exempted Schenker from liability. In light of the important policy consideration of deterrence by employers underlying the doctrine of vicarious liability, exempting employers on widely formulated non-specific exemption clauses should be regarded as being against public policy.
Analisis Penerapan Sistem Akuntansi Keuangan Pada Kantor Camat Lima Puluh Pesisir
Authors: K. Kamilah , Aini Nur
Published: January 2024

The management of the regional financial accounting system can be done by providing information and disclosure of the government's financial performance. In general, village financial management has not kept accounting records in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. For example, at the end of the year do not make adjustments (stock taking) inventory, and calculation of depreciation on assets. The budget is determined based on an estimate of future activities, whether or not the estimate is correct depends on the experience and intelligence of the estimator/projector, if there is an inaccuracy it can disrupt the planning, coordination and supervision.

Keywords: Financial Accounting, Budget Implementation, Transparency.
Relationship between psychological distress and manifest behaviors of young adults in the Detroit Metro area during a COVID-19 wave
Authors: Sehaj Gill
Published: January 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has had unprecedented effects on individuals and societies. While the adverse physical effects of the pandemic are apparent, the mental effects are arguably more prevalent and long lasting. The body of knowledge, especially for younger populations needs to be expanded. Using a survey instrument based on Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 and C.S Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll, 412 responses were collected between January 19, 2022, and February 7, 2022, from people between ages 18 to 25 in the Detroit Metro area. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), Kruskal-Wallis and Chi-Square tests of the collected data suggest depression, anxiety, and stress manifested as specific detrimental behaviors in young people at a 95.0% confidence level. Specifically, ANOVA suggested that depression was associated with manifest behaviors of worry, sadness, changes in appetite and withdrawing from friends and family. Anxiety was associated with sleep issues. Stress was associated with worry, sadness, and aggressive behavior. These results could offer guidance on which manifest behaviors can be addressed to possibly alleviate specific dimensions of psychological distress. In situations where response windows are short and/or where the resources are limited, policy makers and caregivers can prioritize treating and addressing these manifest behaviors.
Mejoramiento de la identidad visual para emprendedores
Authors: Moreira Ortega Rosa Amelia , Vacacela Conforme Lisesette Julesy , Díaz Saavedra Dennise Gabriela
Published: January 2024

El objetivo general de la presente investigación estuvo determinado en potenciar las capacidades comunicacionales a través de la mejora y el buen manejo de la identidad visual de emprendedores del Ecuador. La metodología corresponde a un trabajo de revisión de tipo descriptivo. Donde se revisaron 20 artículos científicos publicados en revistas indexadas en latindex y scielo con las palabras claves: identidad visual, emprendedores, MIPUMES, que además permitió el estudio comparativo de la identidad visual de la Fundación “Guerreros más que vencedores”, y a las Asociaciones del Instituto de Economía Popular y Solidaria. Cuyos resultados demostraron que para lograr el éxito de todas las estrategias y actividades en una organización, independientemente de cuál sea su ámbito de acción y sus metas, entre otros aspectos dignos de tomar en cuenta, la planificación es un proceso primordial, ya que a través de esa actividad se logra poner en conocimiento a todos los integrantes de la organización de las acciones a tomar, los medios y los resultados que se quieren obtener, haciendo más fácil de esa manera el logro de los objetivos. Por otro, se concluye que la ausencia de un logo atractivo que identifique a la Fundación “Guerreros más que vencedores”, y a las Asociaciones del Instituto de Economía Popular y Solidaria, así como de la falta de información que resalte sus valores y su importancia en los trabajos de rehabilitación, motivaron a el diseño de estrategias que conducirán al fortalecimiento de las potencialidades presentes y a la creación de nuevos aspectos que aumenten la identidad visual de estos organismos, permitiendo igualmente su posicionamiento en el mercado, para el cumplimiento de los objetivos planteados.
Extroversion and Theoricity in German Language Programs at the Universities in Cameroon
Authors: DOUNANG Yvonne
Published: January 2024

Being a student of German in Cameroon since 2012, the researcher has noticed that graduates after their degree have difficulties finding a job. It is with the goal of clarifying this situation that this research has been carried out. The researcher would like to find out the reasons why they face such problems. The researcher has worked in different fields in which German graduates are actually working or exercising. The different job offer´s descriptions, whether from the public or from the private sector, have allowed the researcher to come to the conclusion that there is a gap between the courses at universities and the needs of the job market. There is a mismatch between the knowledge taught in school or at universities in Cameroon and the competencies required by employers in Cameroon. The acquired knowledge is extrovert, related to foreign lands and is also theoretical. To reach at this point, the researcher has first shared a questionnaire to collect data on the jobs or the different works of German graduates, then the participative method has been used to have more information on the relation between German studies and professional career. After collecting data, these have been analysed using the qualitative and the quantitative method, and diagrams have allowed to represent the results in terms of percentages. From theses diagrams, the researcher found that teaching is the most practiced activity, further presented the teaching programs at the level of the university (Universities of Yaounde, Dschang, Douala and Maroua) to find the relationship between these programs and the professional situation of these graduates.
The Inner War in Childless Decision Making: A Phenomenological Study of Women With Families
Authors: Dewantara Nur Dhiny , Abraham Mohammad , Nugroho Pandu Nasrul
Published: January 2024

This study aims to determine the description of the inner war of women who decide to live a family life without children (childfree). The research approach used a descriptive qualitative phenomenological design. This study was conducted in Indonesia using one subject. The participant is SN, a woman who has been married for 7 years and decided to be childfree. Data was obtained from the interview process with the subject SN. The data analysis used in this research is thematic data analysis technique. The results showed that the childfree decision taken was not only motivated by one event, but there were many factors that influenced it. From the response of the immediate environment, there is concern for the child’s future, interpretation of a difficult past, and strengthening knowledge from reading books and watching movies. From the decision taken, there are also consequences that must be faced by the subject, including concerns about rejection from the partner’s family and negative stigma from the surrounding environment.
GMIM’s Mission as God’s Mission and Its Reflection in Improving the Quality of Education at GMIM Schools Post COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Suoth Vanny Nancy , Ratag Linda P. , Arina Hein , Tulungen Franky R.
Published: January 2024

This research aims to explain the understanding of the mission of the Evangelical Christian Church in Minahasa (GMIM) as God’s mission and explain the reflection of God’s mission in improving the quality of GMIM school education post COVID-19 Pandemic. This research uses a qualitative approach with a literature study research method. Locus of research on the Mission of God carried out by the Evangelical Christian Church in Minahasa in education. The information collected was analyzed descriptively. The research results show that GMIM’s mission in education is holistic service to humans, both through the GMIM Congregation/Church and GMIM’s schools. Holistic service is reflected in the three tasks of the GMIM Church, namely testimony, fellowship, and Diakonia. Education teaches the values of service, love, and caring for others. As a social and spiritual entity, the Church (GMIM) has an important role in influencing and supporting improvements in the quality of education in schools post COVID-19 Pandemic. The Church (GMIM) must realize its mission to improve the quality of school education with full commitment and dedication, by adhering to theological principles that include moral, spiritual, inclusiveness, and social responsibility dimensions. Churches can be valuable partners in joint efforts to create a better and more equitable education system for future generations.
Cultivating Experiences vs Addressing Expectations: A Deep Dive into Agro-Tourism in Sri Lanka
Authors: Jayasinghe R.P.C.K , Weerasinghe K.M.S
Published: January 2024

The tourist industry has evolved to rely on agro-tourism, an inventive fusion of tourism and agriculture that provides immersive experiences that go beyond conventional traveller stereotypes. This research delves deeply into Sri Lankan agro-tourism, examining the reasons behind visits, the expectations that are made, and the positive aspects of various tourist experiences. Thirty participants—both solo and group travellers—were interviewed in-depth to identify the major elements influencing engagement. Finding the subtleties of agro-tourism experiences and illuminating the elements that lead to visitors’ satisfaction and enduring recollections are the study’s main contributions. The research offers insightful information to stakeholders in Sri Lanka’s tourism industry by exploring these intricate interactions and pointing policymakers, tourism boards, and local communities toward sustainable practices that benefit visitors as well as hosts. Driven by reasons like gastronomic exploration, ecological practices, and cultural immersion, tourists also have other incentives. Agro-tourism experiences have a substantial positive impact on salutogenic outcomes. Implications for policy and suggestions from stakeholders emphasize the necessity of infrastructure upgrades, environmental education campaigns, training programs for service providers, community involvement, and the promotion of solo travel packages. Furthermore, by providing insights into the various factors influencing tourists in Sri Lanka, this study contributes to the advancement of academic understanding and real-world applications in agro-tourism. To promote the sustainable growth of agro-tourism in Sri Lanka, the policy suggestions that have been supplied should benefit both tourists and residents.
Influence of Teachers’ Lived Experience on Conceptualization of ESL Teaching
Authors: Dickson Kangombe , Sekanse Nstala
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study was to establish secondary school teachers’ conceptualisation of ESL teaching in Luanshya District of the Copperbelt Province in Zambia. The objective of this study was to ascertain how secondary school teachers conceptualised ESL teaching using their lived experiences within the Zambian context. This study was interpreted using the narrative theory whose primary claim is that information is more convincing when provided in a narrative format rather than in an argumentative approach. The sample size was made up of eight (08) secondary schools, from which eight (08) teachers were drawn, one (1) teacher from each school. A purely qualitative research design was adopted, following the narrative inquiry strategy. Data was gathered using face to face narrative interviews and classroom observations, and analyzed thematically. The findings had shown that ESL teachers of secondary schools in Zambia conceptualized ESL teaching in various ways such as it being cognitively oriented, rule explanation dominated, increased exposure to material, eclectic oriented and practice dominated. In view of these findings, it is recommended that ESL teachers of Zambia should reconceptualize their view of ESL teaching as constituting isolated elements and adopt an integrated approach
Classroom Discourse in Negotiating Meaning via Cross-Linguistic-Cultural Interferences
Authors: BELAIDOUNI Djilali , SIMERABET Mohammed Larbi , YAHIAOUI Abdellah Taha Arafat
Published: January 2024

The negotiation of meaning that is carried by cross-linguistic transfers and cultural interferences exerts an influence on the learners’ interpretation of the negotiated foreign locutions, where items from the previously acquired languages come to sway the process of decoding and encoding discussions about the nature of discussed meaning. In researching this phenomenon, we chose to observe, interview and experiment with a group of ten learners from The International Language Institute – RIHI. In the district of Tiaret, Algeria, the data garnered here was used as inputs to be treated, discussed and analyzed which permitted us to develop a deeper understanding about the subject being researched. Further developments went on to conceptualize the elements within the phenomenon, this allowed us to categorize its components by determining the rate and the frequency of the researched structure and how it affected the adult learners’ competences in gaining knowledge about foreign concepts in the target language. The interpretations of these concepts were a decisive factor in determining the extent of influence the previously acquired languages have on negotiating meaning.
Effect of Board Size and Board Share Ownership on the Financial Performance of Commercial Banks Listed at the Nairobi Securities Exchange in Kenya
Authors: Bach Ivy , Mwenda Dr. Nathan
Published: January 2024

Financial performance of commercial banks in Kenya has been deteriorating due to low investments caused by poor corporate governance practices, as reported by instances where boards of directors have refused to embrace good corporate governance practices, resulting in poor financial effectiveness. The research sought to ascertain how the board size and board share ownership affect the financial performance of commercial banks listed on the NSE during the years 2016 to 2020. A descriptive research design was adopted and was anchored on agency theory. Secondary data was obtained from the listed commercial banks published on the Kenyan Investors website, Capital Markets Authority Library, Nairobi Securities Exchange websites, and their websites. Inferential and descriptive statistics were utilized in data analysis and the Panel Data Regression Model was analyzed using Stata 16. Findings showed that the average board size for the 12 NSE-listed commercial banks in 2016 was 12, 10 in 2017, 8 in 2018, 11 in 2019 and 9 in 2020. Average board share ownership was 2.10% in 2016, 2.32% in 2017, 2.61% in 2018, 2.92% in 2019 and 3.12% in 2020. The study recommends commercial banks to have a bigger board which might have more specialized skills, well-rounded expertise, and closer supervision of upper management which would eventually lead to optimal judgments and better financial performance.
Effects of Parental Neglect on the Educational Development of the Girl Child in the Effutu Municipality in the Central Region of Ghana
Authors: Adomah Vivian , Kwofie Faustina Akosua Agyeiwaa , Aboh Florence Antwiwaah
Published: January 2024

Parental Neglect (PN) refers to a situation where a parent or care giver of a child refuses or is unable to provide for the needs of the child. PN is one of the major problems that contribute to the falling standards of education in most coastal towns in Ghana of which Winneba (Effutu Municipality) is no exception. Though a lot of research has been done about child abuse, child neglect and sexual abuse, there have not been enough studies on how parental neglect affects the educational development of the girl child. The main objective of this study was to analyse the effects of parental neglect on the educational development of the girl child in the Effutu municipality. Data used for the study were primary and secondary where the questionnaire was administered to 230 respondents. The study employed simple random and convenience sampling techniques. Data collected were screened, edited, coded, entered and cleared into SPSS version 20 to find frequencies, percentages, cross-tabulations, and summarising to draw inferences. The data analysis framework allotted to this study was correlational and the data analysis technique used was regression with the research design being descriptive statistics. It established that low knowledge levels of parents on girls’ education, poverty, single parenting and divorce have led to parental irresponsibility. The study concluded that PN include but is not limited to inadequate or no provision for basic needs which affect the educational development of the girl child. The study revealed that most parents in the municipality are not aware of how their negligence is negatively affecting their girl’s educational development. Therefore, the study recommends the establishment of counselling centres to create awareness through public education in communities in the municipality on the effects of parental neglect on the girl child’s educational attainment.
Exploring the Impact of Grade 11 Boot Camp Implementation: A Teacher-Centric Perspective in a Secondary School at Mahobong, Lesotho
Authors: Mokati Masehlabaka , Kurata Lehlohonolo
Published: January 2024

This study examines the crucial grade 11 stage in Lesotho’s education system—a transitional phase that assesses learners’ eligibility for Higher Education Institutes entry. With only a small number of grade 11s meeting the entry requirements for Higher Education Institutes, the implementation of boot camps emerges as an intervention strategy to enhance grade 11s’ learning experiences to meet tertiary entry requirements. The study is guided by Self-Determination Theory to explore teachers’ perspectives and experiences in understanding the challenges and prospects associated with boot camp implementation for grade 11 students. Using purposive sampling, six teachers from a selected secondary school in Mahobong participated in semi-structured interviews. The findings indicate that boot camps offer concentrated time for learning and foster improved academic performance. They also foster a sense of community among students and teachers. Challenges identified include limited school infrastructure and inefficient program monitoring. Recommendations made include the need for infrastructure improvement, motivation for supporting staff, and enhanced stakeholder collaboration to optimize boot camps’ effectiveness.
Attitude of Student towards Technical Education: A Developing Apathy
Authors: Olusola Osuntuyi Emmanuel , Sunday Olojuolawe Rufus
Published: January 2024

This study examines the importance of technical education in the school curriculum as a tool for developing the intellectual and psychomotor capacity of youth, as well as its relation with entrepreneurship education in promoting self-reliance. Additionally, the paper observes the current attitudes of students and teachers towards technical subjects at the secondary school level. Finally, it examines the correlation between students’ enrolment in tertiary institutions and their interests in technical subjects. A qualitative research approach was implemented, using a combination of semi-structured interviews, questionnaire-based surveys, and document analysis. The sample population comprised 50 secondary school students, divided into 2 groups of 25 students each: technical and non-technical. The results of the study indicate that there is a general negative attitude towards technical education among both students and teachers, as well as a discrepancy between student enrolment in tertiary institutions and their interests in technical subjects. The study suggests that there is a need to promote technical education in the school curriculum to foster an appreciation of technical subjects among students and teachers. Moreover, there should be measures in place to support those who are interested in pursuing technical courses in tertiary institutions, to improve enrolment and ensure a more equitable representation of technical subjects in the higher education system.
The Creativity and Borrowing in the Use of English Language by Second Language Speakers in Nigeria: A Sociolinguistic Perspective
Authors: Isa Abdulkarim Alhaji , Grema Alkali Mohammed , Musa Muhammad Ibrahim , Muhammad Ismail Ahmed , Lawan Bukar Goni , Bashayi Mohammed Lawan
Published: January 2024

The cognitive power of human mind to imagined, create and borrow new skills or ideas in different field of human endeavour such as sciences and technology, the languages users were not left behind. The English language spoken in Nigeria can be identified with many creativity and borrowing in its usage as a result of bilingual, multilingual and sociolinguistic influences on the English language by the native languages. However, the aim of this paper is to discuss the meaning and functions of language and to identify the creativity and borrowing by the users of English language as second language L2/target language TL. The work also, identified the causes of such creativity and borrowing in our daily communication and come up with samples of some native words turned to English. The paper adopts an appraisal to trace these words, their source (language) and their meaning. This major aim was achieved through consultation of bilingual and multilingual users of English, linguist, previous research, language books, journals, newspapers, magazines and other electronic sources of data collection. However, it is observed that a speech community of the users of English as a second language must have certain percentage of their native language.
Potential Challenges of Islamic Banking in Ghana
Authors: Ibrahim Abdul-Somed
Published: January 2024

Purpose – This study assesses the potential challenges of Islamic Banking implementation in Ghana. Design/Methodology/Approach- The research is qualitative research that employed questionnaires to measure the opinions of a sample of 72 main banking employees in four banks conveniently and purposively selected within the banking industry of Ghana. A total of 12 experts are also interviewed. The data analysis is done via SPSS V.20. Findings- The findings from the research reveal that core banking employees are highly educated dominated by males. The data results also showed that the following challenges are eminent: unfamiliar Arabic terms, lack of regulatory framework, lack of trust, lack of adequate human resource and religious undertone. Research Implication- The research setting is dominated by Muslims and the sample size should be considered before generalization of these findings over the entire country. Practical Implications- The findings are indication that Islamic banking can be implemented in Ghana if deliberate efforts are put in place to address the challenges. Originality/Value- The study is the first of its kind in assessing the opinions of core commercial banks employees and experts concerning the challenges of Islamic Banking in Ghana. This study will contribute to the meager literature on Islamic banking.
An Appeal for Help: The Struggles of Readers Using Self-Learning Modules
Authors: Lumangyao Edlan Terefe , Tagadiad Celso L.
Published: January 2024

This study used self-learning modules to determine the learners’ experiences, challenges, and insights when using self-learning modules. The researcher gathered ten (10) informants who were interviewed and were the primary source of information. The data gathered in this qualitative narrative inquiry is based on the responses to three research questions. Results were grouped into themes. Findings revealed that learners struggled using the self-learning modules, such as learning content confusion, mental exhaustion, restricted learning experience, and quickly getting distracted as part of their lived experience. Moreover, they have faced challenges such as the inability to ask for clarifications, lack of guidance, unstructured content, and unfamiliar language use. Finally, the informants’ insights were the practice of active learning, continuous teacher monitoring, efficient time management, use of multiple resources, and review modules with fewer tasks. This implies that it is vital to consider the learners’ level of comprehension and balance in content, and the teachers’ availability should be considered in creating modules or self-learning modules. This research hopes to make strategies and methods to help learners complete and understand the self-learning modules. Additionally, this study focuses on the qualitative appeal to assist readers struggling with self-learning modules at Public Senior High School in Panabo City, Davao del Norte; the same methodology can be used to help students struggling with self-learning modules nationwide.
Gendered Teacher–Student Interactions in EFL Classrooms: A Case of Muhammadiyah Senior High School Context in Papua – Indonesia
Authors: Suhirman Lalu , Yektiningtyas Wigati , Sutoro Sutoro
Published: January 2024

This study examines EFL teacher interpersonal communication of gender differences in classroom interactions at Muhammadiyah High School in the composition of three different class models: (a) composition of sex-mixed learning group (male and female students in a classroom); (b) composition of singled – learning group specifically for women (only female students in a classroom); and (c) singled-learning group special particularly for men (only male students in a classroom). The pattern of classroom interaction from male and female teachers and students is largely influenced by culture or tradition and by the composition of the class gender. For example, male and female EFL teachers initiated a comparable number of interactions across all learning group composition models, but female teachers started more interactions for all learning group compositions and male teachers started fewer interactions in sex-mixed-type classrooms and specifically for female students singled learning group (student – women’s classroom) while in student – male specific classroom, male teachers had a lot of open-minded interaction. Also, in mixed gender classrooms, both groups of female and male students indicated opened interactions with female teachers and male teachers, while female students learning group interact with female teachers smoothly and openly while male teachers, they maintained excessive interaction, and for male class students, they were very active and opened to interacting both with female teachers and male teachers.
Sustainability of the Sub-Saharan African Capture Fisheries and Aquaculture Value Chains: A Review of the Roles and Challenges of Youths and Women in Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi and Zambia.
Authors: Nkhoswe James , Bader Sumeya , Nyauchi Elizabeth , Lemma Yordanos , Ong’ondo Geoffrey , Geremew Akewake
Published: January 2024

Women’s and youths’ participation in capture fisheries and aquaculture value chains is critical to attaining food security and enhancing socio-economic development in sub-Saharan African countries (SSA). Capture fisheries and small-holder aquaculture in Africa significantly impact the livelihoods of households involved in the processing and marketing of fish products, despite many impeding factors in the respective value chains. This paper reviews the challenges that limit women’s and youths’ full participation in the capture fisheries and aquaculture value chains in selected low-income African countries — Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, and Zambia. Electronic data from published literature on case studies in these selected countries was systematically obtained using search engines and reviewed. Analysis showed that many women and youths are employed at all stages of the fish value chains, including production, processing, and trade. However, cross-cutting socio-economic constraints ranging from culture to access to inputs, infrastructure, national policies, marketing, and financial aspects still marginalize these two societal groupings. The comparative review thus concluded by proposing recommendations that can be upscaled to the SSA countries.
IMPLEMENTASI PROGRAM KEAGAMAAN SEKOLAH BERASRAMA JENJANG SMA DI KOTA BANDA ACEH
Authors: Huwaida Huwaida
Published: January 2024

Boarding school is a form of educational institution that has its own advantages, one of which is in terms of religious coaching. This is because boarding school students have more opportunities to take part in religious activities organized by the school. There are high schools in Banda Aceh that run boarding school program or boarding program and implement religious programs inside. This research aims to reveal the implementation of religious programs in boarding schools and the obstacles faced in implementing religious programs in boarding schools at the high school level. Data collection was carried out through interviews and documentation. The results show that religious programs have been implemented in boarding schools at the high school level with a variety of activities and benefits for students. Barriers were also found in implementing religious programs related to student motivation, religious program mentors, student conditions, facilities and infrastructure as well as religious program learning.
In Memoriam - John Anthony Van Couvering (1931–2023)
Authors: Berggren William A. , Aubry Marie-Pierre
Published: January 2024

In early 1978, the American Museum of Natural History appointed Dr. John Van Couvering as Editor-in-Chief of Micropaleontology Press, a program that began as a Works Progress Administration (WPA) project in 1935 and had been housed at the Museum since 1942. For John, this was the beginning of a 38 year-commitment to the dissemination of knowledge on the microscopic shells of protists, through cataloguing and editing scientific journals. While John officially retired in 2016, he continued to volunteer his time and expertise until shortly before his passing on May 22, 2023.
Early to Middle Eocene larger foraminifera from the Ryukyu Tectonic Arc in Amakusa, Kyushu, Japan and Hsuehshan Range, Taiwan
Authors: Matsumaru Kuniteru , Chen Mien-Ming
Published: January 2024

The Nummulites amakusensis Yabe and Hanzawa– N. junbarensis Matsumaru – N. hongoensis Hanzawa – Discocyclina pratti (Michelin) Assemblage (generic term: Amakusa Assemblage) zone of lower Eocene (Ypresian)/middle Eocene (Lutetian), assigned to Letter Stage a2 and the P9 planktonic foraminifera zone in the Philippine Archipelago, is recognized in 20 stratigraphically positioned samples from the Akashimisaki Formation in the Amakusa Islands, Kyushu district Japan, and also in three samples from the Tachien and Meichi Sandstones, Hsuehshan Range, central Taiwan, based on age diagnostic larger foraminifera of five genera and 15 species, together with associated planktonic foraminifera. At the Bozubana locality (station No. 3), Amakusa Islands, unusual white clastic limestone layers in fault blocks of theAkashimisaki Formation yield reworked late Paleocene (Thanetian) larger foraminifera and Late Cretaceous (Maastrichtian) planktonic foraminifera in the Bozubana Thrust Fault zone, which was activated by the Peri Tunghai Tectonic Movement in the Ryukyu Arc after the Eocene formations were deposited. The Amakusa Assemblage is proposed for a key regional framework in the eastern Tethys indicating the late Early Eocene (Ypresian)/early Middle Eocene (Lutetian) based on zone P9 and Letter Stage a2.
Upper Cretaceous benthic foraminiferal biostratigraphy at IODP Site U1513, Mentelle Basin, SE Indian Ocean
Authors: Wolfgring Erik , Petrizzo Maria Rose
Published: January 2024

A biostratigraphic assessment of the benthic foraminiferal record at International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP) Site U1513 in the Mentelle Basin (southeast Indian Ocean, offshore western Australia), yielding a Turonian through Santonian deep-water benthic foraminiferal assemblage is presented. Predominantly calcareous deep-water benthic foraminifera are recovered, whereas agglutinated benthic taxa show a rare occurrence. Epifaunal benthic foraminifera make up ~50% of the total assemblage during the Turonian to Santonian. The most frequently recorded taxa are gavelinellids and gyroidinoids. Adistal, bathyal depositional environment is inferred. Two distinct benthic foraminiferal associations, the Gavelinella berthelini association and the Notoplanulina rakauroana association, were identified in the 160 m-thick succession, and together they yield over 190 taxa. At Site U1513 the occurrence of important benthic foraminiferal markers such as Gavelinella berthelini and the Notoplanulina lineage allows a good correlation with other localities in the southern hemisphere and tentatively with the Pacific Realm. Gavelinella bethelini, which is present from the base of the Turonian succession, shows its last occurrence shortly after the Turonian/Coniacian boundary. Notoplanulina rakauroana is recorded to range from the lower Coniacian through the uppermost Santonian. Throughout the Southern Hemisphere, a similar sequence of benthic foraminiferal bioevents in the Upper Cretaceous can be identified at the Walvis Ridge, in South Africa, Argentina, Southern India, the Kerguelen Plateau, the Great Australian Bight, and in New Zealand. This study aims at contributing to the development of an Upper Cretaceous calcareous benthic foraminiferal zonation applicable to the Southern Hemisphere.
Planktonic foraminiferal biostratigraphy in the Surgah Formation (Turonian-Santonian), Zagros sedimentary Basin, SW Iran (Lorestan Zone)
Authors: Haddadi Mohammad , Vahidinia Mohammad , Gharaie Mohamad Hosein Mahmudy , Ardestani Meysam Shafiee
Published: January 2024

The Surgah Formation was studied in four sections (Kuh-e-Surgah anticline, Zifel, Sarkan, and Mal-e-kuh) from the NW-SE of the Zagros sedimentary basin. Forty-one planktonic foraminiferal species belonging to 20 genera were observed. The recorded species were used to subdivide the Surgah Formation into three biozones: Marginotruncana sigali-Dicarinella primitiva Zone, Dicarinella concavata Zone, and Dicarinella asymetrica Zone. Based on these data, the Surgah Formation was estimated to be of late Turonian to late Santonian age. The Coniacian/Santonian boundary is placed at the Dicarinella asymetrica Zone. The base of the Santonian stage is identified on the FO of Globotruncana linneiana (pill box shaped), the FOs of Dicarinella asymetrica, Globotruncanita elevata and Globotruncana bulloides, and the LOs of Dicarinella primitiva, Dicarinella concavata and Muricohedbergella flandrini.
Designation of a lectotype and paralectotypes for Sigmoilopsis ottnangensis Cicha, Čtyroká and Zapletalová 1973
Authors: Grunert Patrick , Bubik Miroslav
Published: January 2024

The holotype of Sigmoilopsis ottnangensis Cicha, Čtyroká and Zapletalová 1973 cannot be identified with certainty from the collection of specimens used in the original species description. Following the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature, the specimens should be considered syntypes. We herein designate a lectotype and paralectotypes for Sigmoilopsis ottnangensis from the original material to ensure taxonomic stability.
Ramalhoa adherens (Ramalho 2015) n. gen., n. comb., a loftusiid attached benthic foraminifera (family Ramalhoidae n. fam.) from the Upper Jurassic of Portugal
Authors: Schlagintweit Felix
Published: January 2024

A new attaching species displaying a polygonal subepidermal network was described by Ramalho (2015) from the upper Tithonian of the eastern sector of theAlgarve Basin, southern Portugal as Amijiella? adherens. The genus Amijiella Loeblich and Tappan displays different gross test morphology, internal structure as well as an unattached free way of life. Therefore, the Portuguese taxon is herein described as the new genus Ramalhoa with the new combination R. adherens (Ramalho). So far, Ramalhoa with its polygonal subepidermal network is unique among the attaching agglutinated foraminifera and assigned to a new family Ramalhoidae herein. Other agglutinated attached foraminifera displaying a subepidermal network are recorded from the Lower Cretaceous and treated in open nomenclature due to poor material available.
Celebrating 70 years of Micropaleontology
Authors: Kaminski Michael A.
Published: January 2024

With the publication of this issue, our journal enters its 70th year of continuous publication. The journal was originally launched at the American Museum of Natural History as an outlet for taxonomic and biostratigraphic studies and to serve as a newsletter to keep the international micropaleontological community informed of progress and events.
Prognostic Role of Ultrasound Diagnostic Methods in Patients with Acute Decompensated Heart Failure
Authors: Kobalava Zhanna D. , Vladimirovna Tolkacheva Veronika , Kanatbekovich Sarlykov Bekbolot , Aslanova Rena Sh , Alekseevich Lapshin Artem , Sergeevich Nazarov Ivan , Pavlovich Smirnov Ilya , Vatsik-Gorodetskaya Maria V , Tabatabaei Ghazaal Alavi , Al-Zakwani Ibrahim , Al Jarallah Mohammed , Baca Georgiana Luisa , Brady Peter A , Rajan Rajesh , Talera Bhavesh
Published: January 2024

Objectives:To evaluate the prognostic value (total mortality + repeated hospitalization for heart failure (HF)) of ultrasound diagnostic methods in patients with acute decompensated HF (ADHF). Methods: The subjects were patients with chronic HF, who were hospitalized for ADHF. Using ultrasound methods—lung ultrasound, ultrasound assessment of hepatic venous congestion as per the venous excess ultrasound (VExUS) protocol, and indirect elastometry—we assessed the number of B-lines, hepatic venous congestion, and liver density of the patients. Clinical outcomes were assessed using a structured telephone survey method at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after discharge. Combined overall mortality and readmission rates associated with HF were assessed. Threshold values for different methods for detecting congestion were set as follows: the number of B-lines in ultrasound data > 5; liver density > 6.2 kPa. Results: The subjects were 207 patients (54.1% male; mean age = 70.7 ± 12.8 years). A total of 63 (30.4%) endpoints and 23 (11.1%) deaths were detected within 364 days (IQR = 197–365). Liver density > 6.2 kPa had a hazard ratio (HR) of 1.9 ( 95% CI: 1.0–3.3; p =0.029). Hepatic venous congestion (VExUS protocol) had HR of 2.8 (95% CI: 1.3–5.7; p =0.004). There was a significant increase in the risk of overall prognostic value in the presence of congestion, identified by liver fibroelastometry + lung ultrasound (HR = 10.5, 95% CI: 2.3–46.2; p =0.002). The ultrasound assessment of hepatic venous congestion (VExUS + lung ultrasound protocol) yielded HR of 16.7 (95% CI: 3.9–70.7; p < 0.001). For all three methods combined, the overall HR was 40.1 (95% CI: 6.6–243.1; p < 0.001). Conclusions: A combination of ultrasound diagnostic methods that include the number of B-lines, presence of hepatic venous congestion according to the VExUS protocol, and liver density according to indirect elastometry at discharge may have an independent prognostic value for patients with ADHF.
Diagnosis and treatment of spontaneous esophageal rupture
(Boerhaave syndrome): A case report and literature review
Authors: Tong Quang Hieu ,   Nguyen Xuan Hoa1, Quach Van Kien1, Do Trong Khieu
Published: January 2024

Abstract
We present a case report of spontaneous esophageal rupture (Boerhaave
syndrome) has been successfully treated at Viet Duc University Hospital.
Through this case report, we reviewed the literatures on this rare disease's
pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment methods.
Keywords: Boerhaave syndrome; Endoscopic Vacuum-Assisted Closure
Therapy; Endoscopic Vacuum Therapy
The outcome of simultaneous arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament and posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using hamstring tendon, and peroneus longus autograft
Authors: Nguyen Hoang Quan , Nguyen Manh Khanh
Published: January 2024

Abstracts
Introductions: Simultaneous anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) tears are severe injuries to the knee. Therefore, early diagnosis and simultaneous arthroscopic reconstruction of the ligaments are crucial in returning knee function and reducing the risk of disabilities. The purpose of this study is to evaluate simultaneous cruciate ligaments arthroscopic all-inside reconstruction using semitendinosus, gracilis, and peroneus longus autograft.
Materials and methods: We prospectively described 45 patients with simultaneous cruciate ligament tears who underwent one-stage arthroscopic reconstruction using semitendinosus, gracilis, and peroneus longus autograft for one period from January 2019 to June 2022.
Results: Mean age was 36.4; follow–up at 3,6,12,15 months post-op showed good results in knee function and a significant increase of pre and post- op Lysholm score. The mean diameter and length of the ACL graft were 7.52mm and 60mm, and for PCL were 7.68mm and 70mm. Lysholm's score consistently improved over time. The pre-op mean score was 41 ± 7.2, and the min was 24, while the last follow-up mean score was 85.5 ± 8.4, and the max was 98. The difference is significant (p<0.001).
Conclusion: Simultaneous cruciate ligaments arthroscopic all-inside reconstruction using semitendinosus, gracilis, and peroneus longus autograft is a safe and effective treatment for both cruciate ligament injuries.
Keywords: Arthroscopic, Hamstring, Simultaneous ACL/PCL Reconstruction.
Short-term outcomes of laparoscopy-assisted gastrectomy with D2 lymph node dissection for gastric cancer: Experience from a single institution in central Vietnam
Authors: Pham Minh Duc ,   Minh Thao Nguyen2, Thanh Xuan Nguyen3, Anh Vu Pham1
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Introduction: Laparoscopic-assisted gastrectomy (LAG) has become more popular and extensively developed for gastric cancer. However, LAG with D2 lymph node (LN) dissection has not been widely deployed because it is a complex technique and should be performed by experienced laparoscopic surgeons. This study aimed to confirm the feasibility and outcomes of the LAG with D2 dissection for gastric cancer.
Patients and Methods: The prospective intervention study included 72 patients with gastric cancer and underwent LAG with D2 LN dissection between April 2017 and October 2021. All patients were operated by the same surgeon who had experience with laparoscopy. LAG with conventional D2 lymphadenectomy is based on the Japanese gastric cancer treatment guidelines 2014 (ver. 4).
Results: The LAG includes 31 (43.1%) total gastrectomies and 41 (56.9%) distal gastrectomies. Conversion to open laparotomy was required in one patient (1.4%). The mean number of harvested lymph nodes was 20.4 ±
9.1 (range 4 - 47). In 75.0% of the procedures, at least 15 lymph nodes were resected. The mean number of positive lymph nodes was 4.2 ± 5.7 (range 0 - 21), and 16.2 ± 9.3 negative lymph nodes (range 0 - 47). The mean operative time was 231.8 ± 38.1 minutes (range 170 - 350). The mean time to first flatus was 3.5 ± 1.0 days (range 2 - 7). The mean postoperative hospital stay was 10.8 ± 4.0 days (range 7 - 30). The complications within 30 postoperative days occurred in 12 patients (16.7%).
Conclusions: Laparoscopy-assisted gastrectomy with D2 LN dissection was safe and feasible with favorable short-term oncological outcomes. However,this technique must be realized by experienced surgeons in specialized centers.
Keywords: Gastric cancer, Laparoscopy-assisted gastrectomy, D2 dissection, Vietnam