bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gamification to Develop Fifth-Form Students’ Self-Directed Learning Skills in English Lessons
Authors:   Rīgas Stradiņa universitāte, Holberga Anna
Published: March 2024

The aim of the paper is to explore what gamification elements can help to develop students’ self-directed learning skills in English lessons of form 5, because self-directed learning skills are essential for students’ further life. Besides, in her previous study the author has discovered that gamification is an effective tool to keep students interested and motivated. The data collection methods in this paper included analysis of literature and regulatory education documents. Accordingly, it was found that students might lack distinct skills that constitute self-directed learning. Since the learning needs and wants of each student may differ, the teacher must act as a guide to the students, using elements of gamification to motivate the students and provide different activities that would help the students become independent learners. The author concluded that awards, levels, a story narrative, curve of interest and engagement were the most effective gamification elements for improving students’ reflection and motivation to learn independently. Furthermore, this leads to a decrease of behavioural issues.
Pilsoniskie uzņēmēji digitālajā līdzdalībā sabiedrības problēmu risināšanai: konceptualizācijas nepieciešamība
Authors:   Latvijas Universitāte, Meļķis Didzis
Published: March 2024

​​​​​​​Rakstā analizēta nepieciešamība konceptualizēt Latvijai iezīmīgās digitālās līdzdalības ekosistēmu – tās aktorus un to vietu šajā jau notikušajā, tomēr aizvien attīstībā esošajā pārvaldības inovācijā. Raksta pamatā ir autora maģistra darbā “Digitālā līdzdalība kā valsts prestiža instruments Latvijas ārpolitikā (2011–2020)” [Meļķis 2020] veiktās intervijas, organizācijas “ManaBalss” dati, kā arī akadēmiskās literatūras analīze. Autors secina, ka digitālā līdzdalība Latvijā ir ne vien unikāli efektīva pasaules mērogā, bet arī pierādāmi sniedz risinājumus pētnieku uzrādītajām problēmām un dilemmām, piemēram, par digitālās līdzdalības izmērāmību un tās kvalitāti. Latvijā radītās digitālās līdzdalības ekspertīzes akadēmisko un profesionālo komunikāciju un starptautisko mērogojamību traucē tās konceptualizācijas neesamība vispirms jau akadēmiski un tad – arī institucionāli attiecīgā likumdošanā un rīcībpolitikās.
Gene Biomarkers in Congenital Hyperinsulinism
Authors: Valizadeh Reza , Seidkhani Hossein , Mohebinejad Zahra , Kavarizadeh Forouzan , Arefipour Abbass
Published: March 2024

Congenital hyperinsulinism (CHI) is a rare type of disease that causes a severe drop in blood sugar in infants. This diseaseprevents reaching enough sugar to the child’s brain and causes lifelong and permanent damage. This study aims to investigate genebiomarkers in congenital hyperinsulinism. In this study, after reviewing the texts and searching for the bioinformatics databases of NCBI,Genecards, Swiss-prot, Diseasome, etc., the genes involved in the disease based on at least one of the methods in-vivo, in-vitro, and insilicohas been extracted as candidate genes. The expression data obtained from each group was standardized compared to the controlgroup to compare the results in case and control groups. Then, the connection network of expression data of candidate genes in patientsand healthy people were drawn separately with the help of MATLAB software (Version 9.1), and the correctness of these networks anddetermined biomarkers were checked using the rectome and diseasome database. All statistical calculations were done using R and Matlabsoftware. In the present study, the essential genes of CHI disease were identified using 5 central criteria, including maximum neighborhoodcomponent, degree, closeness, radiality, and betweeness. Based on the results of the central criteria method, INS-PRKACA-PRKACBPRKACG-AKT1 genes had the most repetitions. According to the identification of the most effective genes related to CHI disease in thepresent study, it is suggested that further studies need to be designed at the in vitro and clinical levels on the identified effective genes asdiagnostic biomarkers of CHI disease.
The Analysis of Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) on Culinary MSMEs Marketplace in Garut Regency
Authors: Hamdani Nizar Alam , Muladi Rio , Maulani Galih Abdul Fatah
Published: March 2024

Objectives: The Objectives of this research are to examine the influence of perceived ease of use on perceived usefulness, the influence of perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness on behavioral intentions, the influence of behavioral intentions on usage behavior, the influence of subjective norms, and output quality. Demonstration Results of Perceptions of Usefulness and the Influence of Perceptions of Enjoyment on the Ease of Use of GoFood Marketplace among Culinary MSME Entrepreneurs in Garut Regency.Methodology: This research uses a quantitative approach and a survey method, which involves distributing a questionnaire to GoFood partner MSMEs in the Garut Regency. The collected data will then be analyzed using AMOS 27 software. The study focuses on Culinary MSMEs partnered with GoFood, or "merchants." A total of 275 respondents were sampled using a probability sampling technique called simple random sampling. The data collected in the research was taken from MSME actors who have used the Go Food Application platform in the Garut Regency.Finding: The results of this study indicate that (1) Perceived ease of use has an effect on perceived usefulness, (2) Perceived ease of use has no effect on behavioral intention, (3) Perceived usefulness has an effect on behavioral intention, (4) Behavioral intention has an effect on use behavior, (5) Subjective norms affect perceived usefulness, (6) Job relevance has an effect on perceived usefulness, (7) Output Quality has no effect on perceived usefulness, (8) Result of Demonstration has no effect on perceived usefulness, and (9) Perceived Enjoyment has an effect on perceived ease of use. This explains that technology is strategic in increasing understanding of adopting technology which has an impact on business performance.Conclusion: Based on the study results, MSMEs in the Garut district have adopted the use and utilization of application features on GoFood in their business processes.
Nanoplankton dominate autumn biomass on the Agulhas Bank
Authors: Mazwane Sixolile Leonora , Poulton Alex James , Noyon Margaux , Rocke Emma , Roberts Michael John
Published: March 2024

Autumn productivity is key to the large marine ecosystems of the Agulhas
Bank, which support numerous economically important regional fisheries.
Despite such importance, data is sparce on plankton composition in terms
of primary or secondary producers, or on trophic transfer. While
investigating autumn plankton composition we found that
nanophytoplankton (2-20 µm) dominated carbon stocks, with lower
contributions from picophytoplankton (<2 µm) and
microphytoplankton (>20 µm). While picoplankton biomass
exhibited a relationship with warm nutrient poor waters, nanoplankton
showed no clear relationship to environmental parameters. The dominance
of nanophytoplankton biomass on the Agulhas Bank highlights a critical
role for micro-zooplankton grazing as a trophic transfer between these
small plankton, meso-zooplankton and the higher trophic levels that make
the bank so important for regional fisheries. Outside of localized
coastal upwelling on the Agulhas Bank, this study highlights a
significant role for nanoplankton and micro-zooplankton in supporting
the bank’s large marine ecosystems.
Trapped Heterogeneous Waters in Eddies Cores from In Situ Data
Authors: Barabinot Yan , Speich Sabrina , Carton Xavier J.
Published: March 2024

In this paper we analyze the effect of material coherence on the
transport properties of 9 eddies sampled during research cruises. We
check the accuracy of our data and, after reviewing different
definitions of coherence, we assess whether these eddies have retained a
heterogeneous water mass in their cores. T, S anomalies on isopycnal
surfaces are computed to highlight the different thermohaline properties
between the eddy core and its surroundings. The maximum of the tracer
anomaly is often located below the pycnocline. We find that while some
of these eddies are not coherent according to surface data only, they
are when their entire 3D structure is considered. We then present two
methods for extrapolating eddy volumes from a single hydrographic
section. The volume obtained from T,S anomalies on isopycnical surfaces
is compared with that obtained by other criteria. Our results show that
the outermost closed contour of the Brunt-Väisäla frequency is a good
approximation for the eddy boundary when calculating its volume.
Metodyczne aspekty pomiaru cyklu konwersji gotówki w przedsiębiorstwie
Authors: Kitowski Jerzy
Published: March 2024

W krajowej literaturze przedmiotu obserwujemy paradoksalne zjawisko, o ile bowiem panuje zgodność co do interpretacji cyklu konwersji gotówki, stanowiącego różnicę między cyklem operacyjnym i wskaźnikiem spłaty zobowiązań, to sposoby obliczania tego cyklu budzą liczne kontrowersje. W artykule podjęto próbę omówienia metodycznych aspektów konstrukcji oraz wiarygodności diagnostycznej wyznaczników cyklu konwersji gotówki, to jest wskaźników rotacji zapasów, cyklu realizacji należności oraz spłaty zobowiązań krótkoterminowych. Zaprezentowano także zróżnicowane sposoby pomiaru tych wskaźników w wybranych bankowych metodach oceny kondycji finansowej przedsiębiorstwa, ze szczególnym uwzględnieniem kryterium ich zróżnicowania branżowego. Krytycznie oceniono przypadki występowania w krajowej literaturze przedmiotu błędów merytorycznych, niekonsekwencji terminologicznych i uproszczeń metodycznych występujących w prezentacji założeń konstrukcji (a nawet przykładów ich praktycznego zastosowania) rozpatrywanych wskaźników sprawności gospodarowania. Rozważania teoretyczne zilustrowano przykładami empirycznymi, wykorzystując sprawozdanie finansowe Firmy Oponiarskiej Dębica za 2010 rok.
Elementy systemu kontrolno-ostrzegawczego w zarządzaniu finansami
Authors: Kopiński Adam
Published: March 2024

Menedżerowie finansowi w celu bardziej efektywnego zarządzania finansami przedsiębiorstwa wykorzystują między innymi informacje generowane przez wskaźniki finansowe dotyczące rentowności, płynności finansowej, zadłużenia i sprawności działania przedsiębiorstwa, które tworzą system miar kondycji finansowej. W klasycznej analizie finansowej mierniki finansowe i obliczone wartości wskaźników bez zastosowania odpowiedniej procedury ich interpretacji i analizy są mało użyteczne. Dlatego też mierniki i wskaźniki tworzące system miar należy odpowiednio sklasyfikować oraz zaproponować dla nich stosowne metody kontroli ich poziomu i porównań z wielkościami określonymi jako wzorcowe lub pożądane wartości miar kondycji finansowej. Wartości wzorcowe, (pożądane) mogą być wielkościami planowanymi, mogą reprezentować normy, sugestie ekspertów (praktyków) co do ich poziomu lub wskaźniki struktury albo też przedziały dopuszczalne dla wybranych mierników (wskaźników). Na podstawie obliczonych wartości wskaźników finansowych opisujących sytuację finansową przedsiębiorstwa i porównania ich z pożądanymi wartościami mierników kondycji system może emitować sygnały ostrzegawcze, gdy zostaje naruszona (zachwiana) kondycja przedsiębiorstwa. Sygnały ostrzegawcze powinny być emitowane również wówczas, gdy relacje wielkości ekonomicznych albo wskaźników uznawane za naturalne, uzasadnione (pożądane) zostają naruszone. Zadaniem systemu kontrolno-ostrzegawczego jest więc sygnalizowanie pojawiających się zagrożeń wewnątrz przedsiębiorstwa spowodowanych między innymi zmianami płynącymi z otoczenia zewnętrznego i dawanie impulsu menedżerom do podejmowania stosownych działań. Innym sposobem realizacji funkcji kontrolno-ostrzegawczej jest analiza relacji mierników w kontekście wzorcowych układów nierówności, których naruszenie może oznaczać nie tylko chwilowe problemy w zakresie zarządzania finansami. Ważnym i trudnym zadaniem staje się ustalenie stanów uznanych za normalne z punktu widzenia obserwowanych wskaźników (mierników) jako dopuszczalnych, dolnych i górnych wartości. Ponadto, w zmieniających się ciągle warunkach funkcjonowania przedsiębiorstwa i jego otoczenia zarówno wzorce, jak i dopuszczalne dolne i górne granice wartości wskaźników kondycji finansowej powinny podlegać okresowej korekcie.
Due diligence jako źródło informacji w procesie podejmowania decyzji inwestycyjnych
Authors: Brzozowska Krystyna
Published: March 2024

Investors have involved their own savings or trusted capitals in projects to gain higher returns than from other investments, according to a rule – higher risks, higher returns. A key problem is an access to entrepreneurs’ comprehend sive and viable information, which can considerably diminish risks of incorrect investment decisions. An aim of article is to indicate places and possibilitiesto achieve appropriate information necessary to make investment decisions by investors, to reduce information asymmetry and moral hazard risks on stage of access to information about investment opportunities, approach to due diligence and a fi nal evaluation of investment offers, and to indicate threats of incomplete, ill or even untruly information
New parameterized inequalities for twice differentiable functions
Authors: Budak Hüseyin , Kara Hasan , Hezenci Fatih , Sarıkaya Mehmet
Published: March 2024

The present paper first establishes that an identity involving generalized
fractional integrals is proved for twice differentiable functions by using a
parameter. By using this equality, we obtain some parameterized inequalities
for the functions whose second derivatives in absolute value are convex.
Finally, we show that our main results reduce to trapezoid, midpoint Simpson
and Bullen-type inequalities which are proved in earlier published papers.
Measures of noncompactness in the Banach space BC(R+ × R+, E) and its application to infinite system of integral equation in two variables
Authors: Jalal Tanweer , Jan Asif
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this paper is to study the existence of solutions to an
infinite system of Volterra-Hammerstein type nonlinear integral equations
in two variables in Banach space BC(R+ ? R+, E) using functions that are
defined, continuous and bounded on R+ ? R+, taking values in a given Banach
space E. The method used in our research is linked to the creation of a
suitable measure of noncompactness in the space of functions defined,
continuous and bounded on R+ ? R+ with values in the space ?? consisting of
real bounded sequences endowed with the standard supremum norm. An example
exemplifies our investigations.
Geometries and topologies of a manifold with π-quarter-symmetric projective conformal and mutual connections
Authors: Zhao Di , Kwak Kum-Hyok , Ho Tal-Yun , Jon Chol-Yong
Published: March 2024

We propose a new ?-quarter-symmetric projective conformal connection family
and its mutual connection family and study its geometrical properties. We
also arrive at the Schur?s theorem based on a symmetric-type
?-quarter-symmetric non-metric connection and investigate its geometrical
property. This paper will pose a new grid computing method on manifolds,
which will be done in our next topic.
Comparison of F-contraction and φ-contractions
Authors: Cvetkovic Marija
Published: March 2024

During the last two decades the concept of F-contraction, its modifications,
extensions and applications, is in the spotlight of scientific research in
the area of Metric Fixed Point Theory. It is natural to ask what is the
relation between the newly introduced F-contraction and some well-known
classes of contraction mappings. We will discuss the relation between
F-contraction and some of its modification on one side and Boyd-Wong
contraction or Matkowski contraction on the other. The main aim is to
compare the conditions under which those classes of contractions obtain the
unique fixed point on a complete metric space and to prove under which
assumptions we assert that F-contraction is a Boyd-Wong or Matkowski
contraction.
Is information and communication technology a productivity drain or gain? Evidence from the health services sector in China
Authors: Arestis Philip , Lai Mianshan , Miao Lu
Published: March 2024

This contribution investigates the impact of information and communication
technology (ICT) on health service performance and considers the issue of
income inequality. It provides empirical evidence that the development of
ICT helps to mitigate the negative impact of income inequality on health and
thereby providing support for the vigorous development of ICT. Specifically,
by using the Driscoll-Kraay standard error estimation, Generalized Method of
Moments, and a panel threshold model, a nonlinear relationship is detected,
and the results show that: (1) ICT can significantly promote the performance
of the health service sector. As income inequality increases, the effects of
ICT on health care performance become larger. (2) With the increase from a
lower to a higher income inequality level, the positive impact of ICT
development on health service enables productivity to increase
significantly. Finally, policy recommendations for promoting health service
productivity, based on our theoretical contribution and empirical results,
are provided.
Establishing a Plan to Improve Pediatric Patient Comfort during PIV Insertions and Blood Specimen Collection: A Quality Improvement Effort
Authors: Lorenc Jamie , Flaucher Nicholas , Evans Emily , Schurman Jennifer V.
Published: March 2024

Highlights

Patient comfort during peripheral intravenous (PIV) insertion and specimen collection was increased. The authors extended the contingency plan implemented for PICC insertion to include PIV insertion and specimen collection. The authors met their goals by using quality improvement methodology. Prioritizing patient comfort often requires institutional culture change.

Background:

Needle procedures can cause pain and distress, especially in pediatric patients.1 Retrospective data collected at a freestanding pediatric facility revealed that approximately 30% of pediatric patients were not demonstrating sufficient levels of comfort during peripheral intravenous (PIV) catheter insertion and specimen collection (lab draws) even after successful implementation of comfort measures by the vascular access team (VAT) in an adjacent procedure (i.e., peripherally inserted central catheter placement). The current quality improvement project was implemented to support adaptation and expansion of previous lessons learned to PIVs and lab draws specifically.

Design and Methods:

The VAT used the Pediatric Sedation State Scale,2 a standardized assessment tool integrated into the electronic medical record, to assess procedural comfort during PIVs and lab draws from February 2021 through April 2023. A total of 24,134 patients aged 0 to 18 years were included in the data collection. Interventions were delivered concurrently and included (1) reeducation/ongoing support for implementation of the Comfort Promise3 measures, (2) the creation and implementation of advanced comfort options, and (3) culture change.

Aims and Objectives:

The goal of the interventions was to improve the percentage of pediatric patients achieving adequate levels of comfort beginning at 68% in year 1 to 90% in year 2.

Results:

From February 2021 to April 2023, the VAT team was able to improve procedural comfort scores from 68% to 90% of pediatric patients with adequate comfort for lab draws and/or PIV insertions.

Conclusions:

While standard comfort measures are a good first step in pain management during needle procedures, they are not sufficient for every pediatric patient. Nitrous, sedation, and the use of anxiolytics and analgesics can play an important role in reducing pain and anxiety during needle procedures and should be considered for patients not achieving adequate levels of comfort with standard comfort measures.
Experiences With Outpatient Nutrition Services Among Caregivers of Youth With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Gordon Erin N. , Dykeman Blair , Greco Kimberly F. , Liu Enju , Rhodes Erinn T. , Garvey Katharine C.
Published: March 2024

Many children with type 1 diabetes do not meet nutritional guidelines. Little is known about how caregivers perceive the necessity of registered dietitian (RD) visits or how satisfied they are with nutrition care. This study aimed to evaluate nutrition experiences and perceptions of care among caregivers of children with type 1 diabetes at an academic medical center. We analyzed 159 survey responses. Using multivariable logistic regression, we assessed factors associated with the perception of need for annual nutrition visits, satisfaction with RD care, and encouragement from a nurse or doctor to meet with an RD. Covariates included age (<13 vs. ≥13 years), type 1 diabetes duration (≤3 vs. >3 years), sex, race/ethnicity, and insulin pump and continuous glucose monitoring use. More than half of caregivers (56%) considered annual visits necessary. Shorter type 1 diabetes duration (odds ratio [OR] 1.92, 95% CI 1.02–3.63) was associated with this finding. Less than half (46.5%) reported satisfaction with nutrition care; higher satisfaction was also correlated with shorter type 1 diabetes duration (OR 2.20, 95% CI 1.17–4.15). Although 42% reported meeting with an RD in the past year, less than two-thirds (62%) reported receiving a medical provider recommendation for nutrition care. Leading reasons for not meeting with an RD were “I am knowledgeable in nutrition and do not need to see an [RD]” (41%) and “I had a past visit with an [RD] that was not helpful” (40%). Our findings suggest that satisfaction with and perceived need for nutrition care may wane with longer type 1 diabetes duration. Improved strategies for therapeutic alliance between caregivers and RDs and engagement of families at later stages of type 1 diabetes are needed.
CD4+ T cells from individuals with type 1 diabetes respond to a novel class of deamidated peptides formed in pancreatic islets
Authors: Callebaut Aїsha , Guyer Perrin , Derua Rita , Buitinga Mijke , Manganaro Anthony , Yi Xiaoyan , Marques Câmara Sodré Fernanda , Vig Saurabh , Suleiman Mara , Marchetti Piero , L. Eizirik Decio , C. Kent Sally , Mathieu Chantal , A. James Eddie , Overbergh Lut
Published: March 2024

The β-cell plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes, in part through the post-translational modification of self-proteins by biochemical processes such as deamidation. These neoantigens are potential triggers for breaking immune tolerance. We report the detection by LC-MS/MS of 16 novel Gln and 27 novel Asn deamidations in 14 disease-related proteins within inflammatory cytokine-stressed human islets of Langerhans. T-cell clones responsive against one Gln and three Asn deamidated peptides could be isolated from peripheral blood of individuals with type 1 diabetes. Ex vivo HLA class II tetramer staining detected higher T-cell frequencies in individuals with the disease compared to control individuals. Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between the frequencies of T cells specific for deamidated peptides, insulin antibody levels at diagnosis, and duration of disease. These results highlight that stressed human islets are prone to enzymatic and biochemical deamidation and suggest that both Gln and Asn deamidated peptides can promote the activation and expansion of autoreactive CD4+ T cells. These findings add to the growing evidence that post-translational modifications undermine tolerance and may open the road for the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic applications for individuals living with type 1 diabetes.
Enhancing Healthcare Worker Well-Being and Patient Safety in the Pediatric Emergency Department: A Comprehensive Hazard and Risk Analysis
Authors: Özbakır Okan
Published: March 2024

Providing a healthy and safe hospital environment improves employee health and prevents occupational diseases and accidents. This increases the motivation and productivity of employees and contributes to the improvement of service quality in hospitals. Healthcare workers have to work meticulously to provide accurate diagnosis, treatment and care services while competing with time. Working under pressure can cause fatigue, stress and burnout in healthcare workers. This can affect their decision-making abilities and lead to malpractice. Errors can cause occupational accidents or occupational diseases, while misunderstanding or misapplication can cause serious damage to the patient's health. In this study, hazards and risks were identified in order to ensure that employees working in the pediatric emergency department of the hospital work in a healthier and safer environment. Fine Kinney method was used as a risk analysis method in the study. It was observed that the high rate (86.7%) of employees' inability to participate in social and cultural activities (86.7%) due to occupational fatigue caused a decrease in the desire to work (70%), as well as the intense feelings of burnout and frustration (70%) caused by stress caused by the profession. As a result of the challenging conditions experienced, it was determined that the desire not to see patients during the day (76.7%) and dissatisfaction increased (46.6%). Healthcare workers need to be vigilant and careful, and occupational health and safety initiatives should be carried out systematically, team-based, and education-focused.
The Mediating Role of Intrinsic Motivation in the Relationship Between Paternalistic Leadership and Organizational Citizenship Behavior
Authors: Özlok Kasım Kağan
Published: March 2024

This study aims to investigate the effect of paternalistic leadership on organizational citizenship behavior through intrinsic motivation. Hypotheses were developed within the scope of leader-member exchange theory to determine these relationships. The research was conducted with 292 people working in both public and private sectors in Erzincan province by using the survey method. The data obtained in the research were analyzed with SPSS 21 program. It was found that all hypotheses put forward in the research were supported. Paternalistic leadership has a significant and positive relationship with intrinsic motivation. Paternalistic leadership variable was found to have a positive relationship with intrinsic motivation variable. Paternalistic leadership variable was found to have a positive relationship with organizational citizenship variable. Organizational citizenship behavior and intrinsic motivation variables were also found to have a significant and positive relationship. In addition, the mediating effect of intrinsic motivation was determined as a result of the analyzes.
Personality Traits and Values of Men and Women with Different Degrees of Success Avoidance Orientation
Authors: Myagkova A. S.
Published: March 2024

Introduction. The relevance of studying this topic is due to the insufficient knowledge of such a phenomenon as “success avoidance”. An analysis of existing studies has shown that the motive of “avoiding success” is almost not studied in comparison with the motives for achieving success and avoiding failure. Avoidance of success, in turn, has been studied only in women, and attempts have been made to establish the causes and consequences of its occurrence. In our study, for the first time, the specificity of personality traits and values of men and women with varying degrees of success avoidance orientation is considered.

Purpose. The study of personal traits and values of men and women depending on the severity of the orientation towards avoiding success.

Materials and methods. The study used the projective method of avoiding success by M. Horner in the modification of T. V. Bendas; the 16-factor personality questionnaire by R. B. Kettell (Form C); the Value questionnaire by Sh. Schwartz; methods of mathematical statistics (Friedman, Wilcoxon criteria).

Results. The study involved 70 people – men and women aged 20 to 35 years. It has been found that women and men with a low degree of success avoidance orientation have sociability, social courage, skepticism and innovation, as well as responsibility and emotional stability; along with this, women are more anxious and sensitive, and men are more selfconfident. With a moderate degree of focus on avoiding success, women are characterized by leading values, and men are characterized by leading personality traits.

Discussion. The analysis of empirical data shows that men and women who do not avoid success are characterized by almost identical personality traits, but a different value structure – women have a leading value, and the value sphere of men is conflicted. The results of this study provide a basis for discussion and additional analysis of issues related to success avoidance.
Relationship between Adaptation to the Group and to the Activity with the Personal Characteristics of Future Teachers
Authors: Ulybysheva I. N.
Published: March 2024

Introduction. The article discusses the relationship between the indicators of adaptation to learning activities and to the student group with the personal characteristics of future teachers. This work is relevant, since existing studies have insufficiently disclosed the mechanisms of the relationship between the personal characteristics of future teachers and the level of adaptation to the conditions of study at the university. The article reveals the factors and conditions of successful adaptation, which can be used in the work of curators, mentors, heads of student groups to improve the effectiveness of students’ adaptation to the conditions of study at the university.

Purpose: to study the relationship of adaptation to the group and to the activity with the personal characteristics of future teachers.

Materials and methods. The study was conducted on a sample of full-time students, pedagogical training areas, consisting of 290 respondents, among whom 80 % were girls, 20 % were boys, aged 18 to 20 years. The following methods were used in the study: “Adaptation of students in higher education” by T. D. Dubovitskaya and A.V. Krylova, “Five-factor personality questionnaire by R. McCrae and P. Costa” interpreted by A. B. Khromov. Results. As a result of the analysis of the empirical data obtained and the use of the rs-Spearman correlation criterion, statistically significant correlations were revealed between the level of adaptation to the activities of teaching at the university and to the study group of students with personal characteristics. Thus, a relationship was found between the level of adaptation to university learning activities and the indicator of attachment/isolation (0.284 at rs= 0.000), as well as a correlation between the level of adaptation to the student group and indicators of extraversion/introversion (–0.521 at rs= 0.000) and expressivity/practicality (–0.125 at rs= 0.034). Discussion. An important component of successful professional training of specialists is the adaptation of students to the conditions of study at the university. Especially successful adaptation is important for students of pedagogical training areas, since their further development in the teaching profession largely depends on the success of their adaptation. The results obtained indicate that personality characteristics play one of the key roles in the adaptation of future teachers
Examining the Effects of Language Competencies on Academic Achievements of Special Needs Students and Their Peers Using Standardized Test Scores
Authors: Maarouf Saoussan
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of academic language on the standardized test scores of special needs students and their peers in elementary (n = 1140) and middle (n = 451) public schools across the state of Georgia. Several univariate (ANOVA) and multivariate (MANOVA) analyses of variance are conducted on student classification (English language learners “ELL”, non-ELL, students with disabilities “SWD,” non-SWD, economically disadvantaged students “EDA”, and non-EDA) and student test scores in ELA, math, science, and social studies. Univariate (ANCOVA) and multivariate (MANCOVA) analyses of covariance are also conducted where ELA is treated as a predictor of students’ test scores in math, science, and social studies. MANOVA results reveal that the combined-subjects modeling of student test scores is significantly different by student classification with relatively large effect sizes (0.44 to 0.63) for all grade levels. Follow-up ANOVAs indicate that individual modeling of core subjects is significantly different by student classification, with effect sizes between 0.37 and 0.61. The results of ANCOVA and MANCOVA suggest a statistically significant effect of ELA on student test scores results. SWD and ELL groups benefit the most when controlling ELA test scores.
The Sea Unites Us but It Is Governed to Keep Us Apart: Restoring the Creole Afro-Indigenous Sea Mobilities in the Southwestern Caribbean.
Authors: Garcia Ch. Maria Catalina
Published: March 2024

Increasingly, marine governance advocates for ocean justice and, within it, the rights of coastal communities and indigenous people over the ocean space. Yet, international and state sea regimes strengthen border restrictions, impeding people’s mobilities and fracturing the sea interconnectedness. Against this backdrop and delving into the empirical data gathered through ethnographical research, the paper examines the intangible and the material sea (im)mobilities experienced by the Creole Afro-Indigenous communities in the Corn Islands and the San Andres Archipelago in the Southwestern Caribbean Sea. Through the lens of critical ocean geography and mobility studies, it reveals how the maritime boundary regimes and the frameworks of oceans territoriality have impacted indigenous island spatialities in the Nicaraguan-Colombian marine border area for the last decades, disrupting family and social connections, weakening the communities’ autonomy, and impeding food and provisions supply between the islands, thus threatening the indigenous rights with implications for ocean justice. The paper finally considers Creole Afro-Indigenous maritime activism’s prominent role in decolonizing marine governance in the Greater Caribbean region, suggesting the relevance of laws, norms, structures and ocean governance institutions to acknowledge and incorporate these alternative legalities.
Impact of social comparison and peer pressure on iphone consumer happiness and innovativeness
Authors: Sari Indah Permata , Atmaja Ferry Tema
Published: March 2024

In the era of rapid technological advancement, the conventional use of smartphones has undergone a transformative paradigm shift. The presence of Apple's iPhone has become a significant entity surpassing mere communication functions. This research explores the dynamics linking social comparison, peer pressure, consumer innovativeness, and user satisfaction in the context of iPhone usage. Engaging 319 iPhone users in Indonesia through a comprehensive online survey, data was collected, and 150 respondents met the specified criteria. The study employs Partial Least Squares analysis using the SmartPLS4 software. Empirical findings reveal a positive correlation between social comparison and peer pressure, exerting a substantial influence on consumer innovativeness. Interestingly, social comparison also has a positive impact on consumer happiness. However, the research finds that while peer pressure significantly contributes to consumer innovativeness, it does not affect consumer happiness. This investigation underscores the crucial role of social comparison and peer pressure in shaping consumer innovativeness and happiness. The study elucidates the complex interaction between psychological and social factors. By understanding the desire to differentiate oneself and seek social acceptance, this research enhances our understanding of consumer decision-making in iPhone usage, facilitating diverse perspectives on technology as a crucial element in social identity construction.
A review of the Prevalence of Enterohemorrhagic E. coli in Iraq
Authors: Hasan Jinan M. , Najim Shaymaa S.
Published: March 2024

Background: The Diarrhoeal illnesses were a serious public health issue and a main reason that increasing the newborn and young children morbidity and mortality in developing nations. In persons in Iraq and developing nations, Enterohaemorrhagic E. coli is a group of pathogenic E. coli that can cause diarrhea or hemorrhagic colitis. A significant contributor to pediatric acute renal failure, morbidity, and mortality in adults is hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can occasionally develop from Enterohaemorrhagic E. coli. Objective: This review focusing on the prevalence of Enterohaemorrhagic E. coli and their role in increasing the mortality and morbidity in children and adults in Iraq and developing nations. Discussion: Due to the last 30 years of surveillance, EHEC had consistently been one of the biggest dangers to foodborne pathogens globally. EHEC mostly colonizes the gastrointestinal (GI) tract of cattle, where it can spread to neighboring farms and endure for months. Generally the main reasons of the infection with EHEC were O157:H7 but later the infections caused by EHEC strains has been linked to anther serogroups than O157 like O26, O111, O103 and O145. Among the major causes of bloody diarrhea, which may resolve on its own or get complicated into (HUS), is E. coli O157.
How to measure employees’ interests so as to be a more socially-responsible employer: A proposal of a new scale and its validation
Authors: Piwowar-Sulej Katarzyna , Cierniak-Emerych Anna
Published: March 2024

Research background: Many authors emphasize that successful human resource management (HRM) practices align with employees’ needs associated with the construct of employees’ interests. In particular, the importance of considering employees’ interests is emphasized in the process of shaping the architecture of Socially Responsible Human Resource Management (SR-HRM) systems.
Purpose of the article: The aim of the article is to contribute to understanding employees’ interests by designing and validating a measure to recognize these interests.
Methods: Through the use of literature sources and expert opinions, the authors developed a list of employee interests. Empirical data collected via the survey method in Poland was used to statistically verify the measurement scale. In particular, exploratory factor analysis and exploratory structural equation modelling were applied.
Findings & value added: This article shows that it is important to create a comprehensive list of interests, as well as validate the research tool used. The newly developed scale has 22 items and five dimensions: support and development at the level of the enterprise, employee participation, support and development at the departmental level, employment security, working conditions and remuneration. It may be used in a variety of companies, as well as in complex research models, and developed further taking into consideration the context of other countries.
Influence of Ali Al -Gharbi Earthquake on Braced Excavation in Silty Clay Soil (Numerical Study)
Authors: Khaleel  Abd Al-Ameer Hadeel , Obaid Abbas Hassan
Published: March 2024

The design of the braced excavation system is one of the important and necessary matters for the implementation of various projects. The braced excavation system is used to support excavations in temporary projects, so there are shortcomings in the study of this aspect, although sometimes there are many projects that take long periods of time especially the projects of underground tunnels and high buildings. This was the main reason for the study. Therefore, the possibility of exposing the drilling system to earthquakes is great, especially in seismically active areas. If the drilling system is exposed to an earthquake, it can cause great human and material losses, so it must be designed against earthquakes so that ensure complete collapse and failure does not occur. This study aims to investigate the behavior of braced excavations under the influence of the Ali Al-Gharbi earthquake in both x- and y- directions. A numerical study is carried out on braced excavation system of (14×6) m and depth 9m using software Plaxis 3D. The braced excavation system consists of three type of bracing system with three levels of strut and wales connected with sheet pile wall to support sides of excavation and prevent them from collapsing. The results of study showed that the horizontal displacement of braced excavation system is (100-155) % more than vertical displacement (settlement) with seismic time when system is subjected to Ali Al-Gharbi earthquake in both directions with the other factors remaining constant. The stiffness of sheet pile wall also play an important role increases and decreases lateral displacement in both direction. Also, the results showed that the movement of of braced excavation system depends on several factors like as type of soil, time acceleration and the direction of earthquake. Settlement of Ali Al-Gharbi earthquake in Y- direction is 13% more than in X-direction.
The Influence of STAD Method Towards Students Writing Ability in Recount Text
Authors: Ramadhanti Adella , Nurchurifiani Eva , Octafiyana Amelia , Safitri Anisa , Sari Lusi Purnama , Hastomo Tommy
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this research is to determine the influence of learning using the STAD method on students' writing ability. The researchers used quantitative and experimental research methodology. The researchers used two classes as samples, which consisted of an experimental and a control class. Students in the experimental class were provided with instruction with the STAD method, and students in the control class comprised instructed using conventional methods. In collecting data, the researchers used written tests.
New Physics – The Negation of Einstein’s Theories of Relativity
Authors: Malek Abdul
Published: March 2024

From ontological considerations alone, a new revolutionary quantum dynamical-materialist dialectical (Quantum Dialectics or QD) perspective of space-time-matter-motion achieves a new quantitative mass-energy-velocity relation for any ponderable fundamental particles. This new relation, based on the quantum uncertainty principle, gives the mass m of any free fundamental particle at its origin, in terms of the inverse cube of its velocity v. This quantitative relation is different and is a negation of the one derived from mechanical-metaphysical (Classical Mechanics or CM) approach since Isaac Newton and its relativistic post-quantum formulation of Albert Einstein. This new mass-energy-velocity relation is in conformity with known knowledge and is appropriately substantiated by the recent reports that “high-energy photons of gamma radiation from a distant galaxy arrived at Earth four minutes after lower-energy photons, although they were apparently emitted at the same time”; and another saying that “the time delays of gamma-ray photons are inversely proportional to their energy”.  These findings would contradict Einstein's theory of relativity, which says that all photons (particles of light) must move at the same speed c. 
QD considers matter-antimatter particle pairs in their elementary virtual forms and kinetic motion as an eternal quantum dynamical process of existence and non-existence (Being-Nothing) arising from abstract space and abstract time in a contradiction to each other. The virtual particles can transition to real particles through quantum tunnelling or when equivalent energy becomes available. Any existence in this view is a contradiction; vulnerable to change, motion, evolution, development etc. The aggregation of the elementary particles and their motions mediated by chance and necessity, give rise to the phenomenology of this infinite, eternal and ever-changing universe.  
The CM approach on the contrary is based on epistemology and considers that matter (ordinary + light) and motion have an esoteric origin from the mystery of the single act of creation by God; of a finite universe in the finite past; where the premise of conservation laws and “ex nihilo nihil fit” prevail. In its relativistic version, this approach makes a fundamental difference between ponderable matter and light and in fact question the existence of particulate matter. Two axiomatic assumptions, one by Newton of one-sided universal gravitational attraction and the other by Einstein that the velocity of light c is an absolute and universal constant has brought in unphysical objects and phenomena into scientific discourse leading to century-long confusion and scholastic debates among the physicists; with no end in sight!
Resource setting impacts neonatal but not maternal survival in bitches treated for dystocia: 243 cases (2015–2020)
Authors: Zhu Cece , Timothy Clare L. , McCobb Emily , Rozanski Elizabeth A. , Schoeffler Gretchen L.
Published: March 2024

OBJECTIVE

To compare maternal and fetal outcomes of dystocia managed surgically and nonsurgically at referral hospitals (RHs) versus community medicine clinics (CMCs), determine the rate of C-section, and evaluate the incidence of hypoglycemia and hypocalcemia in bitches presented with dystocia.

ANIMALS

Bitches presented with dystocia at 2 RHs and 2 CMCs.

METHODS

Information on signalment, presence of hypoglycemia and/or hypocalcemia, diagnostic imaging performed, nonsurgical and surgical interventions performed, maternal and fetal outcomes, and total cost of care was obtained from the electronic medical records of bitches presenting for dystocia between October 2015 and October 2020. Descriptive statistics were performed and outcome compared between RHs and CMCs using a Fisher exact test, with a P < .05 considered significant.

RESULTS

230 bitches were evaluated with 243 separate episodes of dystocia, with 183 (75%) episodes treated at an RH and 60 (25%) at a CMC. There was a low incidence of hypoglycemia (5% [9/178]) and ionized hypocalcemia (1% [2/164]). Seventy-three percent (177/243) of bitches underwent surgical intervention, 25% (61/243) received nonsurgical management, and 2% (5/243) transferred to their primary veterinarian. There was no difference in survival for bitches operated at an RH compared with a CMC. However, bitches operated at an RH were more likely (P = .04) to be discharged with at least 1 live neonate.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

In bitches diagnosed with dystocia, hypoglycemia and hypocalcemia were rare. The majority of bitches underwent a C-section. The setting where the C-section was performed did not impact maternal survival.
A novel corporate-community partnership model provides safe housing for pets of domestic violence victims
Authors: Pearce Hillary L. , Spielman Becca , Weatherwax Cassie , Pairis-Garcia Monique
Published: March 2024

OBJECTIVE

To document and evaluate a novel partnership model of a safekeeping program for pets owned by domestic violence victims between May 1, 2021, and June 1, 2023.

ANIMALS

19 animals referred to the program.

METHODS

Procedures for identification, intake, medical and behavioral needs, and shelter of pets belonging to domestic violence victims were established and cases reviewed over the program's initial 2 years.

RESULTS

13 dogs and 6 cats belonging to 13 owners were referred to the program. Seven dogs and 1 cat were placed into foster housing. Most pets were intact. One pet had medical concerns at intake (cardiac disease and seizures). Five pets were returned to their owners after an average stay of 5.3 weeks. Two pets were rehomed to new owners.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Veterinarians are likely to encounter pets affected by domestic violence and may be mandatory reporters in some states. This paper will aid veterinarians and community partners to understand the challenges and pet types they are likely to encounter and how best to assist.