bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
تطبيق طريقة المشكلات لترقية كفاءة الطلاب في القواعد النحوية بمعهد دار السعادة تيفين رايا أتشيه
Authors: Hadi Abdul
Published: August 2022

كان الموضوع لهذا البحث " تطبيق طريقة المشكلات لترقية كفاءة الطلاب في القواعد النحوية " بمعهد دار السعادة تيفين رايا أتشيه ( إندونسي) . ووجد الباحث  أن أكثر الطلاب لا يستطيع أن يقرأوا  قراءة صحيحة و سليمة لأن لهم مشكلات في قواعد النحو, و لحل هذه المشكلات يحتاج إلى الطريقة الفعالة. وأما الأغراض التي يستفدفها الباحث في هذا البحث لمعرفة طريقة المشكلات الفعالة لترقية كفاءة الطلاب على القواعد النحوية و كيفية تطبيق طريقة مشكلات لترقية كفاءةهم عليها. وأما منهج البحث في هذا البحث هو منهج تجريبي, و لجميع البيانات فيعتمد الباجث على الأدوات الإختبارية و بملاحضة مباشرة.  وفي تحليل البيانات يستعمل الباحث الرموز    T tes  وهي :        ومن النتائج  المحصولة في هذا البحث أن نتيجة الإختبارات   t-tes 3,26  و أما نتيجة   t-tabel =3,055 فظهر لنا  أن نتيجة  الإختبارات   t-tes أعلى من . t-tabel وأما الفرض الذي قدمه الباجث في هذا البحث أن تطبيق طريقة المشكلات لا تؤثر في ترقية كفاءة الطلاب في القواعد النحوية و إذا نظرنا إلى نتيجة الإختبارات (t-tes  ) السابقة أن نتيجة الإختبارات t tes    أعلى  من t- table  فيكون الفرض في هذا البحث مردودا فطريقة المشكلات تكون فعالة في ترقية كفاءة ال  طلاب في القواعد النحوية.
PENGGUNAAN MEDIA GAMBAR DAN KATA UNTUK MENINGKATKAN MAHARAH KITABAH DI SMP YPP NURUL HUDA SURABAYA
Authors: Jamilah Mimi , Helmy Ismanto Mohamad , Febriani Rofika
Published: August 2022

This study aims to determine whether there is a difference between student learning outcomes before and after being given treatment using pictures and words. It is assumed that there is a significant difference, as formulated in the research hypothesis that there is a significant difference between the increase in maharah kitabah for students after being given treatment using the picture and word method. The sample taken by the researchers amounted to 36 students. Data was collected by using the methods of interviews, observation, experiments, documentation, and tests. So far, the process of learning Arabic in class VII SMP YPP Nurul Huda Surabaya at maharah kitabah has been carried out using the Imla' method. So in this study, to increase the maharah of the book, the image and word media method was used. The aims of this study were (1) to determine the ability of the Arabic book maharah in the seventh grade students of YPP Nurul Huda School before the research was conducted. (2) To find out and describe the implementation of Arabic language learning in the maharah kitabah through the media of pictures and words in Class VII students of SMP YPP Nurul Huda Surabaya. (3) To find out and describe the increase in maharah kitabah in Grade VII students of SMP YPP Nurul Huda Surabaya. In this research, the writer uses quantitative data analysis method by using Mann – Whitney test with SPSS application. From the calculation results, it is found that the mean rank of the pre test is 24.01, and the mean rank of the post test is 48.99. This shows that there is a significant difference between the learning outcomes of maharah kitabah students in the experimental group before and after being given treatment using pictures and words.
ANALISIS KESALAHAN KALAM BAHASA ARAB PADA PESERTA DIDIK LEMBAGA PENGEMBANGAN BAHASA ASING (LPBA) PONDOK PESANTREN NURUL JADID PAITON PROBOLINGGO
Authors: Wijaya Mualim , Oktaviani Nanda Devi
Published: August 2022

This research was motivated by the obligation of students at the Institute for Foreign Language Development (LPBA) Pondok Pesantren Nurul Jadid Paiton Probolinggo to speak a foreign language, namely Arabic. However, in practice many of them still make mistakes in speaking Arabic. Therefore, the language skills of students are not balanced, knowing the pattern of mistakes made by students can minimize or even eliminate the errors in speaking Arabic. This study aims to identify errors in speaking Arabic in students. And knowing the cause of the error and providing the right solution to the mistakes of speaking Arabic. The research methodology used by researchers in identifying speaking errors in students is a qualitative method with a descriptive analysis approach. And the data collection techniques include: observation, interviews, and documentation. While the data analysis used by researchers is a qualitative descriptive analysis. The results of the study indicate that there are 4 components of the form of Arabic speaking errors made by students, namely: phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantic errors. And the cause of the error is the influence of the language that is known first (Mother Language), lack of understanding of Arabic language rules, musyrifah not correcting student errors so that it becomes a bad habit, and students' lack of understanding of the adjustment of the words they use (Arabic). The solution to overcome speaking errors in Arabic for these students is that musyrifah plays an active role and provides a good example in learning Arabic, Giving ta'zir (punishment) to students who make mistakes in speaking Arabic, multiplying mufrodat (vocabulary). and Eliminate the habits of students who tend to generalize Arabic with a language that is known first (mother tongue.
Sectoral Financing Concentration and Profitability of Islamic Banking in Indonesia
Authors: Widarjono Agus , Anto M.B. Hendrie , Sidiq Sahabuddin
Published: August 2022

This paper investigates the extent to which sectoral financing concentration affects the Islamic banks' profitability in Indonesia. As additional control variables, we include bank-specific and macroeconomic conditions. This study utilizes the aggregated financial statements of Islamic banks in Indonesia from January 2010 through December 2019 and analyzed with the Autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model. The results confirm cointegration evidence, demonstrating the long-term relationship between the dependent and independent variables. The results clearly indicate that sectoral financing concentration increases the profitability of Islamic banks. Furthermore, excessive financing and high non-performing financing reduce the profitability of Islamic banks. As a financial sector, Islamic banks' performance is contingent on favorable economic and macroeconomic conditions, such as high economic growth and low inflation. These findings imply that Islamic banks must employ skilled workers who are experts in related economic sectors, which is one of the primary goals of Islamic bank financing.========================================================================================================== ABSTRAK – Konsentrasi Pembiayaan Sektoral dan Profitabilitas Bank Syariah di Indonesia. Tulisan ini mengkaji sejauh mana konsentrasi pembiayaan sektoral mempengaruhi profitabilitas bank syariah di Indonesia. Sebagai variabel kontrol tambahan, kami menyertakan kondisi spesifik bank dan variabel makroekonomi. Penelitian ini menggunakan agregat laporan keuangan bank syariah di Indonesia dari Januari 2010 sampai Desember 2019 dan dianalisis dengan model Autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL). Hasil kajian mengkonfirmasi bukti kointegrasi, yang menunjukkan hubungan jangka panjang antara variabel dependen dan independen. Hasil kajian memperjelas bahwa konsentrasi pembiayaan sektoral dapat meningkatkan profitabilitas bank syariah, sementara pembiayaan yang berlebihan dan pembiayaan bermasalah yang tinggi mengurangi profitabilitas bank syariah. Sebagai institusi yang bergerak di sektor keuangan, kinerja bank syariah sangat bergantung pada kondusifitas sistem ekonomi dan kondisi makroekonomi, seperti pertumbuhan ekonomi yang tinggi dan inflasi yang rendah. Temuan ini menyiratkan bahwa bank syariah harus mempekerjakan pekerja terampil yang ahli di sektor ekonomi terkait, yang merupakan salah satu tujuan utama pembiayaan bank syariah.
The application of the international and domestic arbitration law in settlement of legal disputes: A comparative study
Authors: Lecaj Mentor , Curri Granit , Rexha Donat
Published: August 2022

This paper aims to analyze the credibility and perception of business entities on arbitration with domestic and international elements, which operate particularly in the Republic of Kosovo and the Republic of North Macedonia, in resolving economic and civil disputes. The main advantages that arbitration has in resolving disputes are the speed of resolution and the lowest cost of expenses (Larson, 2018). In the article, comparative, interpretative, and analysis methods are used to reach the final goal of this paper. In this paper, it is found that business entities, which are registered in the Republic of Kosovo and in the Republic of North Macedonia, prefer arbitration as an alternative method of resolving disputes, but their experience regarding the domestic arbitration response is not at the gratification level. These findings are important to quote and avoid obstacles to the promotion of arbitration, and the perception, and credibility of business entities, which may be parties in legal economic, and civil legal disputes with a domestic or international element. From this data, we create a general puzzle on the probability of promotion and use of arbitration in the future in this region.
Peer Effects and Disclosure Timing: Evidence from Earnings Announcements
Authors: Truong Phong
Published: August 2022

I study whether there are peer effects in disclosure timing decisions. Using plausibly exogenous variation in the timing of peers’ earnings announcements based on a threshold in Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) reporting deadline rules, I find that a focal firm responds to a peer’s early announcement by announcing its own earnings early. Consistent with attention competition, early-announcing peers attract market attention away from the focal firm, incentivizing it to also accelerate its own announcement. Moreover, peer effects impose significant negative spillover effects in the form of increased accounting-related costs on firms facing peer pressure to report early. My findings highlight a novel externality of peer effects in disclosure that has important implications for policymakers concerned with the timing of information releases.

JEL Classifications: M41; M42; M48.
Safety and Tolerability of Strength Training in Spinal and Bulbar Muscular Atrophy: A Case Report
Authors: Shieh Vincent , Zampieri Cris , Stout Paul , Joe Galen O. , Kokkinis Angela , Fischbeck Kenneth H. , Grunseich Christopher , Shrader Joseph A.
Published: August 2022

Objective: Spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy is characterized by slow-progressive muscle weakness, decreased functional performance and falls. Research into the use of exercise in spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy has shown equivocal to negative results, although authors suggest that patients with spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy may benefit from both increased exercise intensity and shorter bout duration. The aim of this case report is to explore the safety of a moderate-intensity strength training programme coupled with dynamic balance and function-specific training in a patient with spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy.Case report: A 56-year-old man with spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy presented with multiple falls and declining performance in physical, vocational, and recreational activities. Examination revealed several musculoskeletal impairments that were sub-clinical to mild compared with an SBMA natural history cohort.Intervention and outcome: A 15-week moderate-intensity exercise programme combining weightlifting and functional exercises was performed under clinical supervision. Exercise volume, frequency and intensity were adjusted based on patient-reported outcomes and muscle damage blood markers. Performance-based and selfreported functional improvements occurred that exceeded the minimal clinically important difference. The intervention was well tolerated and the patient nearly doubled his baseline 10-repetition maximums for weight-lifting exercises. Conclusion: Exercise therapy combining weightlifting and upright functional training led to meaningful performance improvements in this case of a patient with spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy and relatively low disease burden.
LAY ABSTRACTSpinal and bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA) is a rare neuromuscular disease characterized by slow-progressive muscle weakness, decreased functional performance, and falling. With limited research for guidance, medical practitioners often advise patients with SBMA to avoid weight lifting or intensive exercise. The patient was a high-functioning 56-year-old man with SBMA who struggled with performing daily activities and intensive physical work demands. He participated in a closely monitored 15-week exercise program that combined weight lifting and functional exercises. The patient safely tolerated the program, self-reported physical improvements, and nearly doubled the weight for lifting exercises. This case report highlights one individual with SBMA who benefitted from moderate-intensity exercise, including weight lifting, under careful clinical supervision. More research is needed before this intervention can be recommended for people with SBMA.
Food Waste caused by Excess Inventory at Retail Stores in Japan
Authors: Oishi Ryusuke
Published: August 2022

In recent years, the sustainability of the global environment has become an attractive issue. The world is exposed to climate change, and there is an urgent need to protect the environment and secure natural resources for the future. Environmental protection and the securing of natural resources require efforts from various stakeholders. This study focuses on food waste in the retailing industry. While many developing countries are having difficulties to secure food, a large amount of food is disposed mainly in developed countries. Food waste produces greenhouse gases and has a negative impact on the environments. A significant amount of food is wasted in the retailing industry, which is mainly due to their excessive stocking. Such excessive stocking is to avoid losing customers because of going out of stock. Although this behaviour is optimal for retailers’ business strategy, it is not preferable from the perspective of preserving the global environment. We theoretically demonstrate humans’ behavioural choice in relation to the use of natural resources and a mechanism of retailers’ overstocking behaviour using economic models. Moreover, we also examine the current state of food disposal and food recycling in Japan. Although, awareness of reducing food disposal is increasing, and various efforts such as food recycling are being carried out in Japan, sufficient reduction of food disposal is hardly be achieved. We argue that in addition to food recycling, measures to discourage retailers from overstocking food products (e.g., tax imposition) are necessary for the sufficient reduction of food waste and the sustainability of the global environment.
Blasting Impact on Environment and their Control Measure Techniques in Open Cast Mining
Authors: Das Bhumika
Published: August 2022

Blasting is the most accepted and practiced technique for the breakage of rock. During blasting, the energy transformation takes place in the explosive. Rock breakage during blasting process is accompanied by the generation of ground vibrations, noise, dust, fumes and flies rock. Our paper deals with the impact of blasting on the environment which possess anger to the nearby structure transportation road and affect the people nearby the mines. Blasting operations cause several adverse environmental effects. With the development of new explosives systems and initiation devices, the blasting process has now become more efficient and safer than before. Use of software tools, blast monitoring and analysis makes it possible that damages and dangers from blasting can be predicted before blasting thus adverse impacts of blasting can be controlled and reduced. The researchers construct their empirical models based on the available research data in the field, future empirical model can also be build based on new specific site data. More than one approach to asses environmental impacts of blasting give more alternative ways to prevent the impacts. Also we have discussed different types of control blasting techniques which would help in achieving our goal and their relevance in content of India and which can be use convectively & efficiently on Indian mining sector for dealing the adverse impact of blasting with the help of virtual simulation.
Efetividade do contrato internacional face a pandemia do Covid-19
Authors: Dias de Oliveira Fábio
Published: August 2022

A pandemia causada pelo Covid-19 refletiu na economia mundial, grande parte na revisão dos contratos internacionais especialmente de compra e venda de mercadorias e insumos que, certamente serão descumpridos – ou cumpridos parcialmente – seja em virtude de paralisações na cadeia produtiva de suprimentos (supply chain), seja ainda os problemas de ordem logística. Procuraremos entender esse desequilibro contratual decorrente da crise médica internacional, como esta afetou a economia e a aplicabilidade do Direito internacional, para correção das disparidades daí decorridas.

A norma utilizada tende a ser o Decreto nº 8.327, de 16 de outubro de 2014, que promulga a Convenção das Nações Unidas sobre Contratos de Compra e Venda Internacional de Mercadorias, conhecida como convenção de Viena. Assim, procuraremos verificar quais são os meios internacionais para efetivação do contrato em razão do seu descumprimento e os Princípios do direito Internacional.
The use of a hyperosmolar irrigation solution is safe in an equine stifle joint model but does not reduce joint swelling
Authors: Hayden Lyndsey R. , Stoker Aaron M. , Johnson Philip J. , McCracken Megan J.
Published: August 2022

OBJECTIVE

To determine the following: (1) whether an irrigation solution that is hyperosmolar (HYPER) relative to synovial fluid decreases tissue extravasation during an arthroscopic protocol when compared to a relatively hypoosmolar solution, (2) the safety of a HYPER solution based on viability of joint tissues following joint irrigation, and (3) if the use of a HYPER solution decreases water content in stifle joint tissue.

ANIMALS

8 adult horses.

PROCEDURES

A prospective, blinded, randomized controlled trial was performed to compare lactated Ringer’s solution (LRS; 273 mOsm/L) and a HYPER (600 mOsm/L) irrigation solution for routine medial femorotibial joint (MFTJ) arthroscopy. Primary outcomes included quantification of periarticular fluid retention based on measured changes in defined stifle joint girth and ultrasonographic (US) criteria. Water content of tissue samples was assessed. The viability of articular cartilage was determined using a microscopic fluorescent cell viability staining system.

RESULTS

No significant difference in postprocedural joint swelling was observed between LRS and HYPER treatment groups. Percent increments in femorotibial joint dimensions (mean ± SD) were seen in both treatment groups based on US (LRS, 83.9 ± 84.6%; HYPER, 131.2 ± 144.9%) and caliper measurements (LRS 5.5 ± 4.3%; HYPER 7.5 ± 5.8%) (P ≤ .05). Chondrocyte viability and tissue water content were maintained in both treatment groups, and differences were not statistically significant.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Doubling the osmolarity of an irrigation solution used routinely for arthroscopy does not result in detrimental effects on chondrocyte viability or tissue water content. However, use of a relatively HYPER irrigation solution did not attenuate procedural tissue swelling of the equine stifle joint.
PERBAIKAN MANAJEMEN PEMELIHARAAN KERBAU MURRAH SEBAGAI PENGHASIL SUSU DAN DADIH DI KECAMATAN TILATANG KAMANG KABUPATEN AGAM
Authors: Roza Elly , Yellita Yulia , Elihasridas Elihasridas , Rakhmadi Ade , Rizqan Rizqan
Published: August 2022

Kegiatan ini dilaksanakan pada Kelompok Tenak Kelok Rambai, Nagari Kapau, Kecamatan Tilatang Kamang, Kabupaten Agam. Kelompok Tani Ternak Sapi Kelok Rambai merupakan kelompok ternak yang memelihara kerbau Murrah, akan tetapi belum menerapkan manajemen pemeliharaan yang baik. Manajemen pemeliharaan yang belum terkelola dengan baik inilah serta minimnya pengetahuan peternak merupakan kendala utama yang dihadapi di lokasi kegiatan sehingga produktivitas ternak kerbau Murrah masih sangat rendah. Kegiatan ini bertujuan untuk perbaikan manajemen pemeliharaan, perbaikan pendapatan peternak kerbau Murrah dengan penerapan manajemen yang baik dan penerapan IPTEK dan hasil riset dalam upaya pengembangan usaha yang mandiri. Metode kegiatan yang dilakukan dalam kegiatan ini adalah pemberdayaan masyarakat partisipatif meliputi penyuluhan, pelatihan/percontohan, bimbingan/pembinaan, diskusi/konsultasi serta evaluasi/monitoring. Diharapkan dari kegiatan yang dilakukan pada Kelompok Tani Ternak Sapi Kelok Rambai dapat meningkatkan pendapatan kepada anggota kelompok, penerapan manajemen pemeliharaan yang baik, terjadinya peningkatan motivasi, ada pemanfaatan teknologi tepat guna dan menjadikan nagari Kapau sebagai salah satu sentral peternakan kerbau Murrah penghasil susu dan dadih di Sumatera Barat.
SOSIALISASI PENERAPAN KESEHATAN DAN KESELAMATAN KERJA DAN PENGENDALIAN BAHAYA DI SMKN 2 BENGKULU UTARA
Authors: Febrianti Tiara , Syaiful Ferry Lismanto
Published: August 2022

K3 (Kesehatan dan Keselamatan Kerja) merupakan kebijakan pemerintah dalam menjamin kesehatan dan keselamatan bagi pekerja. Berdasarkan undang-undang No. 1 tahun 1970 tentang Kesehatan dan Keselamatan Kerja, perlu adanya pengetahuan dan ketentuan tentang K3 untuk menghindari kemungkinan terjadinya risiko kecelakaan kerja. Penerapan K3 ini juga diperlukan agar dapat menggunakan alat, sarana, dan prasarana dengan aman dan efisien. Kegiatan ini bertujuan memberikan edukasi dan meningkatkan pemahaman siswa-siswi SMKN 2 Bengkulu Utara tentang pengenalan potensi bahaya dan pengendalian bahaya sebagai bekal dan pengetahuan dasar bagi siswa-siswi sebelum melaksanakan magang demi menjamin kesehatan dan keselamatan kerja bagi siswa-siswi, meminimalisir terjadinya kecelakaan kerja. Kegiatan ini dilaksanakan di SMKN 2 Bengkulu Utara. Sasaran dari kegiatan ini yaitu siswa-siswi SMKN 2 Bengkulu Utara. Kegiatan ini dilakukan dengan metode sosialisasi berupa ceramah atau persentasi, evaluasi, dan pembagian poster. Hasil yang diperoleh dari kegiatan sosialisasi dan evaluasi yaitu adanya peningkatan pemahaman dan pengetahuan siswa tentang penerapan K3 di tempat kerja. Hasil yang diperoleh dari pembagian poster K3 yaitu adanya peningkatan pemahaman siswa tentang pengenalan identifikasi bahaya dan pengendalian bahaya di tempat kerja. Berdasarkan kegiatan ini dapat disimpulkan bahwa siswa-siswi SMKN 2 Bengkulu Utara mendapatkan edukasi terkait pengenalan potensi bahaya dan pengendalian bahaya dan adanya peningkatan pemahaman siswa terhadap penerapan K3 di tempat kerja. Kegiatan ini diharapkan mampu meningkatkan kesadaran siswa akan pentingnya melakukan penerapan K3.
The Impact of Health Expenditures on Medical Product Exports: A Case of E7 Countries
Authors: BOZDUMAN Elif Tuğçe , ERKAN Birol
Published: August 2022

It was aimed to analyze the impact of health expenditures on medical product exports in E7 countries (Turkey, China, India, Russia, Indonesia, Brazil and Mexico) in the developing countries group in the paper. In this context, it was first performed the MADF unit root test to test the stationarity of the series in the study covering the period 2000-2017. Then it was performed the Swamy S test to determine the homogeneity and heterogeneity of the series. Finally, it was applied the Dumitrescu-Hurlin Panel causality test to determine the causality relationship between the series. As a result of the findings, it was determined that the series were stationary and heterogeneous in the first difference and that there was a bidirectional causality relationship between the two variables. In other words, both health expenditures affected medical product exports and medical product exports affected health expenditures. In this perspective, when countries' health expenditures increase, medical product exports also increase, and when medical product exports increase, health expenditures also increase.
Catheter-directed computed tomography angiography: A pictorial essay
Authors: Ghosh Abheek , Moxley Ellen , Waghmarae Suneet , Stoner James , Anand Sheena , Akhter Nabeel M.
Published: August 2022

Catheter-directed computed tomography angiography (CDCTA) is an imaging technique where CT images are acquired after selective catheterization of a vessel. Images obtained in this fashion provide several advantages over conventional imaging techniques such as fluoroscopic angiography, digital subtraction angiography, cone-beam CT, and conventional CT angiography. At this point, there is still limited literature on the subject, with prior studies examining a small number of potential uses. The goal of this pictorial essay is to illustrate our single tertiary care center experience using CDCTA.
Repurposing of drugs for combined treatment of COVID 19 cytokine storm using machine learning
Authors: Tsigelny Igor , Gantla Maanaskumar , Kouznetsova Valentina
Published: August 2022

Context: SARS CoV 2 induced cytokine storm is the major cause of COVID 19 related deaths. Patients have been treated with drugs that work by inhibiting a specific protein partly responsible for the cytokines production. This approach provided very limited success, since there are multiple proteins involved in the complex cell signaling disease mechanisms. Objective: To elucidate using machine learning (ML) the set of drugs targeting a group of proteins involved in the mechanism of cytokine storm. Methods: We selected for targeting five proteins: Angiotensin II receptor type 1 (AT1R), A disintegrin and metalloprotease 17 (ADAM17), Nuclear Factor Kappa B (NF 𝜅B), Janus kinase 1 (JAK1) and Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) that are involved in the SARS CoV 2 induced cytokine storm pathway. We developed ML models for these five proteins, using known active inhibitors. After developing the model for each of these proteins, FDA-approved drugs were screened to find novel therapeutics for COVID 19. Results: We identified twenty drugs that are active for four proteins and eight drugs active for five proteins. Mitomycin C is the most active drug across all five proteins with an average prediction score of 0.886. For further validation of these results, we used the PyRx software to conduct protein–ligand docking experiments and calculated the binding affinity. The docking results support findings by the ML model. Conclusions: It is possible to elucidate the drugs, targeting simultaneously several proteins related to cytokine production to treat the cytokine storm in COVID 19 patients.
Specifications Grading at Scale: Improved Letter Grades and Grading-Related Interactions in a Course with over 1,000 Students
Authors: McKnelly Kate J. , Howitz William J. , Thane Taylor A. , Link Renée D.
Published: August 2022

In our previous work we piloted a specifications grading system in an organic chemistry laboratory course with 37 students. Our current work describes the scale up of that specifications grading system to a course with over 1,000 students. Strategies used for keeping the system manageable and mitigating the time commitment required to do so are described. We found that the time necessary to grade student work and manage the specifications grading implementation of the course was not any greater than for the previous, points-based course, that grade-related interactions were more positive, and that student letter grades increased. Despite the increase in final letter grades, we encountered some resistance to the grading system from students and graduate teaching assistants. Here, we explore their concerns and address the difficulty of alternative grading methods in overcoming habituation to traditional points-based grading systems. Future work is needed to evaluate student and GTA buy-in, to assess potential improvement in student work, and to address questions regarding equity in specifications grading systems.
Charge transport across dynamic covalent chemical bridges
Authors: Miao Zelin , Quainoo Timothy , Czyszczon-Burton Thomas , Rotthowe Nils , Parr Joseph , Liu Zhen-Fei , Inkpen Michael
Published: August 2022

Relationships between chemical structure and conductivity in ordered polymers (OPs) are difficult to probe using bulk samples. We propose that conductance measurements of appropriate molecular-scale models can reveal trends in electronic coupling(s) between repeat units that may help inform OP design. Here we apply the scanning tunneling microscope-based break junction (STM-BJ) method to study transport through single-molecules comprising OP-relevant imine, imidazole, diazaborole, and boronate ester dynamic covalent chemical bridges. Notably, solution-stable boron-based compounds hydrolyze in situ unless measured under a rigorously inert glovebox atmosphere. We find that junction conductance correlates with the electronegativity difference between bridge atoms, and corroborative first-principles calculations further reveal a different nodal structure in the transmission eigenchannels of boronate ester junctions. This work reaffirms expectations that highly polarized bridge motifs represent poor choices for the construction of OPs with high through-bond conductivity and underscores the utility of glovebox STM-BJ instrumentation for studies of air-sensitive materials.
Reversing the enantioselectivity of enzymatic carbene N–H insertion through mechanism-guided protein engineering
Authors: Calvó-Tusell Carla , Liu Zhen , Chen Kai , Arnold Frances H. , Garcia-Borràs Marc
Published: August 2022

In this work, we report a computationally driven approach to access enantiodivergent enzymatic carbene N–H bond insertions catalyzed by P411 enzyme variants. Computational modeling was employed to guide engineering efforts to control the accessible conformations of a key lactone-carbene (LAC) intermediate in the enzyme active site by installing a new H-bond anchoring point. By combining MD simulations and protein engineering, a reversed (R-selective) P411 enzyme variant, L5_FL-B3, was obtained in a single round of semi-rational directed evolution. L5_FL-B3 accepts a broad scope of amine substrates with excellent yields (up to >99%), high efficiency (up to 12,300 TTN) and good enantiocontrol (up to 7:93 er), which complements the previously engineered S-selective P411-L7_LF variant.
Identification of an endocyclic “structural pin” interaction and its significance for conformational control of macrocyclic scaffolds
Authors: Yudin Andrei , Appavoo Solomon , van Campenhout Christiaan , Nicholas Heller
Published: August 2022

While peptide macrocycles with rigid conformations have proven to be useful in the design of chemical probes against protein targets, conformational flexibility and rapid conformational interconversion can be equally vital for biological activity. This study introduces the concept of a “structural pin”, which represents an intramolecular hydrogen bond that controls overall ring conformation and can be used to explore macrocyclic conformational energy landscape. Characterization and structural analysis of macrocycles with an endocyclic Brønsted base using NMR and molecular modelling indicates that removal of the structural pin drastically influences the conformation of the entire ring, resulting in novel states with increased conformational heterogeneity. These results suggest that local interactions around structural pins can be effective in controlling overall macrocycle conformation, offering a useful conceptual framework for stabilizing bioactive molecules.
Investigating the Heaviest Halogen: Lessons Learned from Modeling the Electronic Structure of Astatine's Small Molecules
Authors: Rusakov Alexander , Casetti Vincent , MacLean James , Ayoub Adam , Fredericks Rain , Adamski Jacob
Published: August 2022

We present a systematic study of electron-correlation and relativistic effects in diatomic molecular species of the heaviest halogen astatine (At) within relativistic single- and multi-reference coupled-cluster approaches and relativistic density functional theory. We establish revised reference \textit{ab initio} data for the ground states of \ce{At2}, \ce{HAt}, \ce{AtAu}, and \ce{AtO+} using a highly accurate relativistic effective core potential model and in-house basis sets developed for accurate modeling of molecules with large spin-orbit effects. Spin-dependent relativistic effects on chemical bonding in the ground state are comparable to the binding energy or even exceed it in \ce{At2}. Electron-correlation effects near the equilibrium internuclear separation are mostly dynamical and can be adequately captured using single-reference CCSD(T). However, bond elongation in \ce{At2} and, especially, \ce{AtO+} results in rapid manifestation of its multi-reference character. While useful for evaluating the spin-orbit effects on the ground-state bonding and properties, the two-component density functional theory lacks predictive power, especially in combination with popular empirically adjusted exchange-correlation functionals. This drawback supports the necessity to develop new functionals for reliable quantum-chemical models of heavy-element compounds with strong relativistic effects.
Photochemically-Mediated Polymerization of Molecular Furan and Pyridine: Synthesis of Nanothreads at Reduced Pressures
Authors: Oburn Shalisa , Huss Steven , Cox Jordan , Gerthoffer Margaret , Wu Sikai , Biswas Arani , Murphy Morgan , Crespi Vincent , Badding John , Lopez Steven , Elacqua Elizabeth
Published: August 2022

Nanothreads are an emerging one-dimensional sp3-hybridized material with high predicted tensile strength and a tunable band gap. They can be synthesized by compressing aromatic, or non-aromatic small molecules under 15-30 GPa of pressure. Recently, new avenues are being sought that reduce the pressure required to afford nanothreads; focus has been placed on the polymerization of molecules with reduced aromaticity, favorable stacking, and/or the use of higher reaction temperatures. Herein, we report the photochemically-mediated polymerization of pyridine and furan aromatic precursors, which achieves nanothread formation at reduced pressures. In the case of pyridine, it was found that a combination of slow compression/decompression with broadband UV light exposure yielded a crystalline product featuring a six-fold diffraction pattern with similar interplanar spacings of previously synthesized pyridine-derived nanothreads at a reduced pressure. When furan is compressed to 8 GPa and exposed to broadband UV light, a crystalline solid is recovered that similarly demonstrates X-ray diffraction with an interplanar spacing akin to that of the high-pressure synthesized furan-derived nanothreads. Our method realizes a 1.9-fold reduction in the maximum pressure required to afford furan-derived nanothreads and a 1.4-fold reduction in pressure required pyridine-derived nanothreads. Density functional theory and multiconfigurational wavefunction-based computations were used to understand the photochemical activation of furan and subsequent cascade thermal cycloadditions. The reduction of the onset pressure is caused by an initial [4+4]-cycloaddition followed by increasingly facile thermal [4+2]-cycloadditions during polymerization. Density functional theory and multiconfigurational wavefunction-based computations were used to understand the photochemical activation of furan and subsequent cascade thermal cycloadditions.
Nelson Annandale 1876-1924
Authors: ZSI Editor
Published: August 2022

No Abstract.
Physical characteristics, nutritional composition and phenolic compounds of
some of the sorghum landraces obtained in South Africa
Authors: Nemukondeni N. , Mbajiorgu C.A. , Hassan Z.M. , Sebola N.A. , Manyelo T.G. , Bodede O. , Mabelebele M.
Published: August 2022

Sorghum is among the predominant food plants in sub-Saharan Africa with established
dietary and health benefits. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the physical and
nutritional characteristics and phenolic compounds of some of the sorghum genotypes
grown in South Africa. The varieties investigated were white (Macia-SA), red (M48) and
brown sorghum (M153). The Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC)
method was used for physical, nutritional and mineral examination and the Waters Synapt
G2 quadruple time-of-flight (QTOF) mass spectrometer (MS) for the evaluation of the
phenolic compound. The highest mineral content for the genotypes was potassium, in the
range of 3599.24, 4248.04, and 4763.45 mg/kg; the highest value recorded was in the
brown sorghum (SBrown) variety. The white sorghum (SWhite) variety had higher dry
matter (DM), gross energy (GE) and starch contents compared to the red and brown types.
Furthermore, higher ash, crude protein (CP) and ether extract (EE) values were observed
in respect of the red sorghum variety. The most abundant phenolic compound in this study
was caffeic acid, and this was more in the red sorghum. Naringenin-7-O-glucoside was the
only quantified flavonoid, the highest content was reported in the red sorghum genotype.
The Principal Component Analysis (PCA) showed that p-coumaric acid, chlorogenic acid,
caffeic acid and naringenin-7-O-glucoside contributed largely to the clustering of the
genotypes in component 1 (PC1), while feruloylquinic acid and ferulic acid contributed to
the clustering of component 2 (PC2). High component loadings for PC1 were contributed
by the red sorghum (SRed) variety. These results suggest that sorghum varieties grown
under South African climatic conditions are rich sources of valuable nutrients and diverse
phenolic compounds, with brown and red sorghum types being the outstanding varieties.
Sorghum’s unique phenolic profile qualifies it to be used to lessen oxidative stress and
prevent diseases such as cancer. It has the potential to be utilized in the development of
functional food additives.
Umrah Worship During The Pandemic Covid–19: Responses From Residents In Northern Malaysia
Authors: Anuar Herman Shah , Osman Wan nadzri bin , Sharif Kamal imran bin mohd
Published: August 2022

The Covid-19 pandemic that hit the world has affected many things including social and economic activities. For Muslims, among the main effects are the barriers to perform Umrah and Hajj where Saudi Arabia is among the countries that close their country's border gates from the influx of travellers. When most countries started to show decreasing number of covid-19 cases, this is where Saudi government reconsider to reopen its borders to welcome Umrah and hajj travellers. This study concentrates on Northern Malaysia namely the state of Kedah and Perlis. Quantitative research methodology was employed where 1093 responses gathered from both states from population of 2 million Muslims. Responses were very good and very positive. It is suggested for future studies to include the population for all over Malaysia or shall be extended to other places to evaluate interest among Muslims to perform Umrah once the situation has recovered
Effect of Human Capital Investment on Economic Growth: Nigeria Perspective
Authors: Madugba Joseph Ugochukwu , Oparah Vivian Ihuaku , Onuoha Chinagorom Juliana
Published: August 2022

The study was conceptualised to ascertain the effect of human capital investment on economic growth in Nigeria. The ex-post facto research design was adopted because data relating both explained and predictor variables already exist in literature. T he data for the study were extracted from CBN statistical bulletin and analysed using and descriptive statistic and Ordinary Least Square (OLS) as well as cointegration regression analysis. The result revealed that only capital expenditure on education has a positive and significant association with RGDP. Capital expenditure on health and universal education has a positive but insignificant association with RGDP, recurrent expenditure on education and health have a negative and insignificant association with RGDP. We concluded that human capital investment on economic growth in Nigeria is not significant. The study recommended that Government and policymakers should show concerted and sincere effort in building and developing human capacity through adequate educational funding across all levels.
Socially Responsible Bond ETFs in the US: A Performance Evaluation
Authors: G. Rompotis Gerasimos
Published: August 2022

This paper seeks to answer whether socially responsible bond Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) in t he USA can outperform the main local aggregate bond and stock market indices. More specifically, the performance of 62 bond ETFs with Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Scores of 7/10 or above is assessed over the period 1/1/2018 - 31/12/2021. The sample has been selected based on data availability over the study period. Standard research methodology is applied including the single-factor market model and the risk -adjusted return metrics of Sharpe and Information ratios. Performance persistence is evaluated too. The findings show that, in raw return terms, the mean bond ETF underperforms the Bloomberg US Aggregate Bond Index and the S&P 500 Index. In addition, the examined ETFs cannot produce any material above-market return. Furthermore, daily returns seem to persist but weekly and monthly returns display a reverting behavior. A similar reverting behavior is observed between the annual return rankings of ETFs. Overall, our resu lts are in line with those findings in the literature that show, on average, ESG portfolios cannot beat the non-ESG peers on a consistent basis.
Outreach in Omicron: A BHSC Outreach/External Case Competition 2022
Authors: Agarwal Aashna , Khaitan Vanshika , Lin Neil , Tataru Elena , Liu William , Gruber Alexa
Published: August 2022

This “Outreach in Omicron” case competition, hosted by the BHSc Outreach and BHSS External committees at McMaster University, originated as an initiative to spark leadership and engagement by challenging students to develop an idea for a novel volunteer program within the Hamilton community. Following the COVID-19 pandemic and the return to a “new normal” in community programs, this type of thinking is crucial to provide necessary support to the many organizations within Hamilton that are supported by BHSc Outreach and the McMaster community. The following abstracts are representative of three proposals submitted for consideration for an opportunity to integrate one of them with a BHSc Outreach program during the upcoming year through this case competition. In doing so, this competition was intended to foster a positive, community-oriented mindset among McMaster students by providing an opportunity to directly contribute to the local Hamilton community.
Evaluation and comparison of vitamin A supplementation with standard therapies in the treatment of patients with COVID-19
Authors: Rohani Mohamad , Mozaffar Hasan , Mesri Mehdi , Shokri Mehdi , Delaney Daniel , Karimy Mahmood
Published: August 2022

Background: Incomplete data are often presented for determining the role of vitamin A supplement therapy for improving treatment outcomes in patients with COVID-19. Aims: We compared treatment effects between a group that received vitamin A added to the standard COVID-19 treatment and another group that received the standard drug treatment alone. Methods: Participants in this triple-blind controlled trial comprised 182 COVID-19 outpatients in Saveh City, Markazi Province, Islamic Republic of Iran, in 2020. Patients were randomly divided into experimental (n = 91) and control (n = 91) groups. Patients in the control group received the national standard treatment for COVID-19 (hydroxychloroquine), and those in the intervention group received 25 000 IU/d oral vitamin A for 10 days in addition to the standard treatment recommended by the national protocol. We evaluated the clinical symptoms, paraclinical criteria, and hospitalization status before and after 10 days of interventions. Results: The treatment groups did not differ significantly in clinical and paraclinical symptoms before the intervention. However, clinical symptoms such as fever, body ache, weakness and fatigue, paraclinical symptoms, white blood cell count, and C-reactive protein showed significantly greater decreases in the experimental group 10 days post-intervention compared with the standard treatment alone (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Vitamin A supplementation demonstrated efficacy in improving some clinical and paraclinical symptoms in patients with COVID-19. Future studies should evaluate vitamin A supplementation with a larger sample size and compare different dosages, especially in hospitalized patients
A Preliminary Catalogue of the Collection of Islamic Art at the King Faisal enter for Research and Islamic Studies. (c2023)
Authors:   ,   Lebanese American University, Lawand Dana
Published: August 2022

The Collection of Islamic art held at the King Faisal Centre for Research and Islamic Studies (KFCRIS) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia features no academic museum catalogue for the permanent collection. After researching a selection of objects from the 7th to the 20th century, I chose to produce an academic museum catalogue that focuses on the broadranged, all-encompassing nature of the collection. The catalogue I have contributed classifies the objects according to dynasties and their geographical expanse, in addition is an account of the technical innovations that may be associated with the dynastic period. Each object in the catalogue entry features a descriptive analysis in addition to identification of a similar object held in a foreign museum. My contribution highlights the potential the collection of Islamic art held at KFCRIS has in the propagation of knowledge of Islamic art.
Pengaruh Model Problem Based Learning terhadap Kemampuan Literasi Geografi pada Pembelajaran IPS Materi Kegiatan Perdagangan Antarwilayah dan Antarnegara
Authors: Khotimah Suciawati Khusnul , Prasetyo Ketut , Prasetya Sukma Perdana , Nasution Nasution
Published: August 2022

Tujuan penelitian ini untuk menganalisis perbedaan dalam peningkatan kemampuan literasi geografi peserta didik yang menggunakan model pembelajaran Problem Based Learning dibandingkan dengan model pembelajaran discovery learning; serta adanya pengaruh yang signifikan antara penggunaan model pembelajaran Problem Based Learning terhadap peningkatan kemampuan literasi geografi peserta didik. Metode penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode eksperimen dengan model quasi experimental (eksperimen quasi). Berdasarkan hasil N-Gain di atas, diketahui bahwa peserta didik kelas eksperimen memiliki nilai N-Gain sebesar 0,71 dengan kategori tinggi Sedangkan peserta didik kelas kontrol memiliki N-gain sebesar 0,61 dengan kategori sedang. Dengan demikian maka dapat disimpulkan bahwa penggunaan model problem based learning memiliki pengaruh dan efektivitas yang lebih baik daripada penggunaan model discovery learning terhadap kemampuan literasi geografi peserta didik dalam materi kegiatan perdagangan antardaerah dan antarnegara.