bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What Is Outdoor Therapy? A New Name for an Old Therapeutic Practice
Authors: Harper Nevin J. , Dobud Will W.
Published: November 2024

Humans are integrally connected to, yet in many ways disconnected from, nature. Across cultures, nature has been celebrated and revered in religion, traditions, rituals and community connectedness. While unfavorable conditions in nature can cause harm, closer contact with nature has been shown to reduce stress, strengthen immune systems, and improve mental health and physical wellbeing. This paper briefly describes outdoor therapies and a range of nature-based interventions assisting practitioners in serving their clients across numerous healthcare and psychological treatment fields. We bring attention to the historical integration of nature in healing practices and reduced connection with nature that many Western societies experience today. We know no one psychotherapeutic approach is necessarily better or more effective than another, but rather, we propose that outdoor therapies offer an evolutionary approach to human health beyond psychotherapy. The added value of therapy outdoors recognizes that we are biologically a part of nature, and healthier when in connection to it. To locate this approach within the corpus of conventional therapeutic literature, a brief overview is offered, and common factors of outdoor therapies are proposed.
Exploring the Needs of People With Chronic Low Back Pain and Health Care Professionals for mHealth Devices to Support Self-Managed Physical Activity and Pain: User-Centered Design Approach
Authors: Berger Mathilde , Deblock-Bellamy Anne , Chèze Laurence , Robert Thomas , Desrosiers Julie J , Christe Guillaume , Bertrand Anne Martine
Published: November 2024

Background

Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a major economic and social problem worldwide. Despite the variety of recommended treatments, long-term self-management of this condition is complex and requires the development of innovative interventions. Mobile health (mHealth) technologies hold great promise for the management of chronic pain, particularly to support physical activity. However, their implementation is challenged by a lack of user compliance and limited engagement, which may be due to insufficient consideration of the needs of potential users during development.

Objective

This study aims to explore the needs of people with CLBP and health care professionals regarding mHealth technologies to support self-managed physical activity, and to delineate design recommendations based on identified needs.

Methods

A participatory study was conducted using a 3-phase, user-centered design approach: needs investigation with a group of experts in a workshop (phase 1), needs exploration with end users in focus groups (phase 2), and validation of needs using Delphi questionnaires followed by the development of a set of recommendations (phase 3).

Results

A total of 121 people with CLBP, expert patients, health care professionals, rehabilitation researchers, and biomechanical engineers participated in this study. The results indicated how technology could help people with CLBP overcome their difficulties with managing physical activity. Specific needs were formulated concerning device objectives, expected strategies, functionalities, technical features, conditions of use, and potential facilitators and barriers to use. These needs were validated by consensus from the potential end users and translated into design recommendations.

Conclusions

This study provides design recommendations for the development of an mHealth device specifically adapted for people with CLBP.
Pioneering Klebsiella Pneumoniae Antibiotic Resistance Prediction With Artificial Intelligence-Clinical Decision Support System–Enhanced Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry: Retrospective Study (Preprint)
Authors: Jian Ming-Jr , Lin Tai-Han , Chung Hsing-Yi , Chang Chih-Kai , Perng Cherng-Lih , Chang Feng-Yee , Shang Hung-Sheng
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

The rising prevalence and swift spread of multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria (MDR-GNB), especially Klebsiella pneumoniae (KP), present a critical global health threat highlighted by the World Health Organization, with mortality rates soaring approximately 50% with inappropriate antimicrobial treatment.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to advance a novel strategy to develop an artificial intelligence-clinical decision support system (AI-CDSS) that combines machine learning (ML) with matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), aiming to significantly improve the accuracy and speed of diagnosing antibiotic resistance, directly addressing the grave health risks posed by the widespread dissemination of pan drug-resistant gram-negative bacteria across numerous countries.

METHODS

A comprehensive dataset comprising 165,299 bacterial specimens and 11,996 KP isolates was meticulously analyzed using MALDI-TOF MS technology. Advanced ML algorithms were harnessed to sculpt predictive models that ascertain resistance to quintessential antibiotics, particularly levofloxacin and ciprofloxacin, by using the amassed spectral data.

RESULTS

Our ML models revealed remarkable proficiency in forecasting antibiotic resistance, with the random forest classifier emerging as particularly effective in predicting resistance to both levofloxacin and ciprofloxacin, achieving the highest area under the curve of 0.95. Performance metrics across different models, including accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and F1-score, were detailed, underlining the potential of these algorithms in aiding the development of precision treatment strategies.

CONCLUSIONS

This investigation highlights the synergy between MALDI-TOF MS and ML as a beacon of hope against the escalating threat of antibiotic resistance. The advent of AI-CDSS heralds a new era in clinical diagnostics, promising a future in which rapid and accurate resistance prediction becomes a cornerstone in combating infectious diseases. Through this innovative approach, we answered the challenge posed by KP and other multidrug-resistant pathogens, marking a significant milestone in our journey toward global health security.
Reducing Faculty Burden with Question Creation: A randomized control trial comparing AI-generated versus expert-generated questions through student feedback and performance (Preprint)
Authors: Kumar Akshat , Stinson Katie , Wang Litao , Nugent Elizabeth , Lee Yongsu , Hormann Mark , Jones Love LaTanya , Syed Toufeeq
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Developing high quality formative and summative assessment questions can take considerable time and effort, which in turn can contribute to burnout among medical school teaching faculty. Generative AI can decrease faculty burden by reducing the time needed to develop assessment materials.

OBJECTIVE

This study compares students’ performance on and subjective assessment of AI- versus expert-generated questions. We hypothesized that there would be no significant difference in student performance or subjective assessment of AI vs expert-generated questions.

METHODS

We designed a single-center, prospective, double-blind randomized controlled trial where student participants randomly received one AI or expert-generated question per day over the course of four weeks.

RESULTS

We found no significant difference between the distributions of the proportion of correct responses to AI- versus expert-generated questions (p=0.1809). Interestingly, the cumulative proportion of questions answered correctly over 28 days increased slightly for human-generated questions but stayed constant for AI-generated questions. There was a significant difference (p=0.0051) between the distribution of student difficulty ratings for AI- versus expert-generated questions.

CONCLUSIONS

Generative AI can reduce faculty burden by creating effective formative and summative assessments.
Clinical characteristics of patients with migraine depending on vitamin D level
Authors: Hrytsenko O.Ye. , Kopchak O.O.
Published: November 2024

Background. Migraine, which is the second most common primary headache, has a negative impact on the quality of life of young people, limiting their ability to work and social activity. At the same time, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in vitamin D as a drug with pleiotropic properties whose deficiency is often observed among people with migraine. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical characteristics of headache in patients with various forms of migraine depending on vitamin D level. Materials and methods. The study included 112 participants with chronic and episodic migraine (97 women and 15 men) aged between 20 and 50 years (mean age of 33.6 ± 5.3 years). They were divided into two groups based on vitamin D levels. Group A consisted of patients with diffe-rent types of migraine and low vitamin D levels (below 30.0 ng/ml). Group B included patients with migraine and normal vitamin D le-vels (30.0–50.0 ng/ml). Results. Participants with low vitamin D levels appeared to be younger (p = 0.05) than those with normal content. Group A had a significantly higher frequency of chronic migraine compared to group B (54.2 vs. 17.2 %, p = 0.04). Migraine with aura was more prevalent in group A (p = 0.06). Additionally, group A showed a higher frequency of chronic migraine (p = 0.005), sugges-ting that low vitamin D levels might be a risk factor for the development and complications of migraine. The Visual Analog Scale indicated more severe headache symptoms in group A (7.8 ± 2.4 points) compared to group B patients (6.3 ± 2.2 points) (p = 0.009). Moreover, group A patients had a higher frequency of migraine attacks over the last three months (p = 0.027) and a higher score on the Migraine Disability Assessment scale (p = 0.08), as well as more pronounced depressive disorders that in group B (p = 0.033). A positive correlation was found between vitamin D levels and patients’ age (r = 0.65, p = 0.003). There was a negative correlation between vitamin D levels and the presence of chronic migraine (r = –0.87, p = 0.03), and between vitamin D and depression level according to the Back Depression Inventory (r = –0.54, p = 0.007). Conclusions. The results obtained indicate a significant impact of vitamin D levels on the clinical course and characteristics of migraine in our patients. Younger age, chronic migraine, and depression levels are key factors associated with vitamin D deficiency. These findings may serve as a basis for perso-nalized approaches to the treatment and prevention of migraine depen-ding on vitamin D levels and individual characteristics of patients.
Significant Wave Height Forecasting using Long-Short Term Memory (LSTM) in Seribu Island Waters
Authors: Khatimah Husnul , Jaya Indra , Atmadipoera Agus Saleh
Published: November 2024

Wind waves are natural phenomena primarily generated by the wind. Information about wave height and period is highly crucial in various marine fields such as coastal engineering, fisheries, and maritime transportation. However, accurately predicting wave height remains a challenge due to the stochastic nature of ocean waves themselves. Several approaches to predicting wave height have been developed, including numerical models and machine learning methods, such as the Long-Short Term Memory (LSTM) algorithm, which has currently garnered significant attention from researchers. The objective of this research is to develop a forecast model for wind wave height using the LSTM algorithm in Seibu Island Waters, DKI Jakarta. The ERA5 dataset comprises zonal and meridional wind components and significant wave height, along with wind measurement data using the Automatic Weather System (AWS) instrument, are used to train and test to train and test the LSTM model. The research results show that the LSTM model can predict significant wave height effectively. Predictions using the ERA5 significant height dataset are observed to be closer to field data, with RMSE, MAE, and MAPE values of 0.1535 m, 0.1181 m, and 37.11% respectively. Thus, the model evaluation results indicate good performance, with relatively low RMSE and MAE values, and a good MAPE value. The highest accuracy in significant wave height prediction is found for forecasts one week (7 days) ahead
Research on Compulsory Contracting Obligation of Civil Liability under the Civil Code
Authors: Quzhen Yixi
Published: November 2024

This paper introduces the concept of compulsory contracting obligation from the case analysis, and analyzes the characteristics and types of compulsory contracting obligation. Subsequently, the civil liability for breach of the compulsory contracting obligation is analyzed from its nature and constituent elements, and its liability method is proposed and introduced in detail.
Research on the Effectiveness of China's Rural Land Ownership Policy
Authors: Wang Songtao , Yang Yang , Luo Minqian
Published: November 2024

The confirmation of rural land rights and the "separation of three rights" have opened the prelude to the deepening reform of China's agricultural land system, and are of great significance to the implementation of rural revitalization and agricultural security strategy in the new era. Based on existing literature studies, this paper summarizes and analyzes the effect of land ownership confirmation on farmers' income, land circulation, scale management, urbanization, rural governance and other aspects of China's rural land ownership confirmation. The research shows that land ownership confirmation can improve farmers' income, promote land circulation and scale management to a certain extent, but the effect is limited. The impact on urbanization and rural governance is still unclear.
The Relationship between Entrepreneurial Leadership, Entrepreneurial Motivation, and Entrepreneurial Skill
Authors: Barati Mohamad
Published: November 2024

The majority of theoretical models employed for the purpose of studying entrepreneurial performance place significant emphasis on motivation as a fundamental determinant of success in business. Also, having skills can play an important role as a complement to motivation. This study aimed to investigate the effect of entrepreneurial leadership on entrepreneurial motivation and entrepreneurial skill. This study expands knowledge in two ways: uncovering new relationships and replicating some of the important findings previously made in the field of entrepreneurship. The statistical population consisted of 103 employees of an industrial company. The selection of individuals was done through available sampling. the required data were collected through three questionnaires. The Entrepreneurial Leadership Questionnaire, Entrepreneurship Skills Questionnaire, and Entrepreneurship Motivation Questionnaire. The research findings were obtained by the descriptive-correlation method. The results show that entrepreneurial leadership has a positive and significant effect on employee motivation. It can also be said that entrepreneurial leadership has a positive and significant effect on employee skills.
Entre la colaboración y el conflicto: gobierno federal, autoridades locales y escuelas en las ciudades chiapanecas, 1920-1940
Authors: Gordillo Ballinas Fernando de Jesús
Published: November 2024

En 1921 se creó en México la Secretaría de Educación Pública (SEP), hecho que marcó el inicio de la federalización educativa en el país. Pronto, esa dependencia comenzó a realizar convenios con los gobiernos estatales y a establecer sus propias escuelas, las cuales a veces fueron bien recibidas y, en otros casos, se enfrentaron a la resistencia de las autoridades, del personal docente o de los grupos de poder locales, proceso al que no fue ajena la entidad chiapaneca. El propósito del presente artículo es explicar la manera en la que coexistieron los sistemas educativos federal y estatal en las principales ciudades de Chiapas, donde la institución escolar se encontraba mucho más consolidada que en las zonas rurales. Para ello. fue necesario tomar en cuenta, en la medida en que las fuentes lo permitieron, las voces de los diferentes actores involucrados: autoridades, profesorado, padres de familia y alumnado.
Sociología del Derecho
Authors: Martínez Hernández Ma. Isabel
Published: November 2024

Introducción al análisis de las aportaciones teóricas de diversos autores fundamentales, para valorar la importancia de las ciencias sociales con carácter científico sobre las problemáticas de los grupos humanos, con énfasis en la interrelación entre las disciplinas de Sociología y Derecho.
LONG TERM CCD PHOTOMETRY OF THE DISTANT CLUSTER NGC2419: THE CMD REVISITED
Authors: Arellano Ferro A. , Muneer S. , Giridhar S. , Bustos Fierro I. , Yepez M. A. , García Pérez G. A. , Rios Segura G.
Published: November 2024

Employing VI images of NGC 2419 acquired over 17 years, light curves for most of the known variables in the field of the cluster are produced. A cluster membership analysis for about 3100 stars in the cluster field with proper motions from Gaia-DR3 revealed the presence of member stars as far as 140 pc from the cluster center and enabled the construction of a cleaner CMD free of field stars. It was found that RRab and RRc stars share the inter-order region in the instability strip, which is unusual for OoII clusters. Theoretical considerations confirm that Pop II cepheids are descendants of extreme ZAHB blue tail stars with very thin envelopes of about 10% of the total mass. Member RR Lyrae stars were employed to calculate independent estimates of the mean cluster metallicity and distance; we found [Fe/H]UV = -1.90 ± 0.27 and D = 86.3 ± 5.0 kpc from the RRab and [Fe/H]UV = -1.88 ± 0.30 and D = 83.1 ± 8.1 kpc from the RRc light curves.
Cloud Computing: Trends, Challenges, and Future Directions
Authors: Bele Prof. S. B.
Published: November 2024

Cloud computing has become a cornerstone of digital transformation, reshaping how organizations manage data, resources, and services across sectors. This paper examines the latest trends propelling cloud computing forward, including the rise of multi-cloud and hybrid models, the integration of edge computing, and the expansion of AI-driven capabilities. While cloud solutions offer unparalleled flexibility and scalability, they also introduce challenges in areas like security, compliance, and cost management. This study explores these complexities, focusing on data privacy, interoperability, and the impact of evolving regulations on cloud adoption. Additionally, we analyze emerging directions such as quantum computing in the cloud, zero-trust security models, and sector-specific cloud solutions. By evaluating current innovations alongside persistent hurdles, this paper provides insights into the cloud’s transformative potential and anticipates developments that will shape its future role in a digitally interconnected world.
The impact of Artificial intelligence on Marketing Strategies: A Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Gupta Dr. Ruchi
Published: November 2024

Abstract: Artificial intelligence (AI) is developing at a rapid pace, which has significantly changed marketing techniques in a variety of sectors. This study offers a thorough investigation of how artificial intelligence (AI) affects marketing techniques, looking at how it affects both organizational procedures and customer behavior. Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies—such as machine learning, natural language processing, and predictive analytics—have brought out cutting-edge solutions that let companies improve consumer interaction, maximize campaign success, and extract useful insights from massive data sets. The paper starts by investigating the development of man-made intelligence in advertising, following its mix from early robotization apparatuses to refined, information driven frameworks. It features how man-made intelligence driven personalization has upset client connections, permitting advertisers to convey profoundly custom fitted encounters in view of individual inclinations and ways of behaving. Through ongoing information investigation and division, man-made intelligence works with accuracy focusing on and dynamic substance conveyance, prompting expanded transformation rates and consumer loyalty. Crusade adequacy, and distribute assets all the more productively. This upgrades the profit from speculation (return for capital invested) yet additionally helps in alleviating chances related with customary showcasing strategies. Concerns about data privacy and the possibility of algorithmic bias are also addressed in the paper, as are the ethical considerations and difficulties associated with AI in marketing. In order to maintain consumer trust and comply with regulatory standards, it emphasizes the significance of developing AI practices that are transparent and responsible. This analysis acknowledges the need for ongoing adaptation and oversight while highlighting the transformative potential of AI in marketing through case studies and empirical evidence.
Fatores associados a autopercepção positiva de saúde em idosos durante a pandemia por Covid-19: achados e implicações
Authors: Ruberson Ribeiro da Silva Michael , Silva Bazoni Patrícia , José Faria Ronaldo , Frizzera Meira Eduardo , Barreto Ribeiro dos Santos Jéssica
Published: November 2024

Introdução: A autopercepção de saúde está relacionada a fatores clínicos, econômicos e sociais, sendo um importante indicador de qualidade de vida, morbidade e funcionalidade diminuída em idosos. Objetivo: Identificar a prevalência e os fatores associados a autopercepção positiva de saúde em idosos durante a pandemia de Covid-19. Materiais e Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo epidemiológico transversal, por meio de inquérito domiciliar, nos meses de novembro e dezembro de 2021 em um município do Espírito Santo. Os fatores associados a autopercepção de saúde positiva foram identificados por regressão de Poisson com variância robusta. Resultados: Dos 299 idosos entrevistados, 42,1% relataram uma autopercepção positiva de saúde. A análise revelou que a autopercepção positiva de saúde estava associada a vários fatores sociodemográficos e clínicos. Idosos que residiam na sede do município, tinham maior escolaridade (ensino médio ou superior), não estavam acamados, possuíam plano de saúde, não apresentavam doenças diagnosticadas, não estavam em polifarmácia e nem realizavam automedicação apresentaram maior prevalência de autopercepção positiva de saúde. Conclusão: A autopercepção positiva de saúde está relacionada a fatores clínicos e sociais que melhoram o bem-estar subjetivo, a função social e o desempenho físico. Isso destaca a importância de implementar estratégias que promovam a saúde e fortaleçam percepções positivas, contribuindo para um envelhecimento mais saudável e sustentável.
High- versus low-intensity resistance exercise in the treatment of pain in patients with knee osteoarthritis
Authors: De Sá Clodoaldo Antônio , Grossl Fernando Schorr , Vasconcelos Alan Bruno Silva , Copatti Sedinei Lopes , Corbellini Felipe , Corralo Vanessa da Silva
Published: November 2024

Objective: To compare the effects of two intervention protocols using a single low- (LIRE) or high- (HIRE) intensity resistance exercise on chronic pain and muscle strength in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Methods: Twenty patients with a clinical diagnosis of KOA were evaluated and randomized into two intervention groups: (HIRE: N=10, 75% of 1-RM; LIRE: N=10, 30% of 1-RM). Each group performed a single resistance exercise (knee joint extension on a leg extension machine) at high or low intensity twice a week. Strength for one repetition maximum (1-RM), functional strength, and pain were assessed before and after 12 weeks of intervention. Results: Pain decreased from pre- to post-test in both the ERBI group (effect size = -1.931) and the HIRE group (effect size = -3.299), and this reduction was significantly greater in the HIRE group (p > 0.05). Both HIRE and LIRE produced increases in 1-RM strength and functional strength after 12 weeks of intervention (p < 0.05). The percentage change between pre- and post-test for functional strength showed a negative correlation with the percentage change in pain only in response to high-intensity exercise (p < 0.05). Conclusions: ERAI is more effective than ERBI in reducing pain in patients with KOA. Increased functional strength is associated with greater pain reduction only in response to HIRE.
Procesos de construcción físico – social del territorio en México a partir de proyectos de investigación – incidencia: Programa Nacional Estratégico de vivienda
Authors: Córdova Canela Fernando , Aguilar Méndez Carlos E.
Published: November 2024

En el siglo XXI la construcción del territorio mexicano se ha acompañado de problemas físicos y sociales relacionados a la reducción de la satisfacción de las necesidades básicas de los habitantes y la prevalencia de intereses individuales sobre la búsqueda del beneficio social. El desarrollo de proyectos de investigación e incidencia ha planteado cambios en el espacio físico y social con el surgimiento de nuevos actores, movimientos e identidades; analizar su desarrollo permite vislumbrar la propuesta de reestructuración sistémica del espacio, su producción, así como las dinámicas contextuales que persisten en él. El objetivo del presente trabajo es explicar la propuesta de reestructuración contextual de los proyectos de investigación e incidencia derivados de la política de humanidades, ciencias y tecnologías; se parte de la caracterización de las corrientes de pensamiento y la subjetividad que precedió la producción del espacio en México para realizar un análisis comparativo de la propuesta de reconfiguración de la relación habitante – territorio del Programa Nacional Estratégico de Vivienda.
Un Análisis Crítico de los Mitos UX basado en la Investigación y la Experiencia Profesional
Authors: CASAS Melisa Natalia , MARTIN Adriana
Published: November 2024

La norma ISO 9241-210 define la experiencia de usuario como las percepciones y respuestas de las personas, resultantes del uso o anticipación de uso de un producto, sistema o servicio. El presente trabajo se centra en el análisis crítico de los mitos comunes en el campo de la Experiencia de Usuario (de su sigla en inglés UX). Desde la investigación académica, por un lado, y la práctica profesional, por el otro, se busca desmitificar y evaluar la veracidad de estos mitos en el contexto actual. A tal efecto, se realiza una revisión de una amplia gama de fuentes, seleccionando los mitos más relevantes y debatidos en el campo de UX. Luego, se analiza cada mito detalladamente, proporcionando datos empíricos para respaldar o refutar su validez. Para llevar adelante este análisis, se consideran dos perspectivas principales, una centrada en las investigaciones de los referentes en UX, y la otra, en la experiencia de los profesionales de negocios. Así, bajo estas dos perspectivas, se analizan artículos científicos y trabajos de investigación sólidos, como así también, artículos y publicaciones en la web que presentan las prácticas a las que adhieren los profesionales de negocios. Finalmente, se ofrecen algunas conclusiones basadas en los hallazgos obtenidos que puedan contribuir al conocimiento en UX, y a la toma de decisiones en el diseño de experiencias de usuario.
Epistemic Boundaries and Quantum Uncertainty: What Local Observers Can (Not) Predict
Authors: Fankhauser Johannes
Published: November 2024

One of quantum theory's salient features is its apparent indeterminism, i.e. measurement outcomes are typically probabilistic. We formally define and address whether this uncertainty is unavoidable or whether post-quantum theories can offer a predictive advantage while conforming to the Born rule on average. We present a no-go claim combining three aspects: predictive advantage, no-signalling, and reliable intersubjectivity between quantum observers. The results of the analysis lead to the conclusion that there exists a fundamental limitation on genuine predictive advantage. However, we uncover a fascinating possibility: When the assumption of reliable intersubjectivity between different observers is violated, subjective predictive advantage can, in principle, exist. This, in turn, entails an epistemic boundary between different observers of the same theory. The findings reconcile us to quantum uncertainty as an aspect of limits on Nature's predictability.
Current Perspectives on Teacher Professional Identity Research: a Systematic Review
Authors:   University of Latvia,, Semjonova Simona
Published: November 2024

This systematic review explores recent trends in teacher professional identity (TPI) research and compares them with the findings from Beijaard et al.’s (2004) literature review on TPI studies. The conceptualization of TPI, as well as the purpose of studies done by different scholars is explored in the review. Taylor & Francis, Sage, and Emerald databases chosen to select relevant empirical work focusing on general education pre-service, in-service, and student teachers. Literature reviews and studies pertaining to higher education and early childhood education teachers were excluded. Thus, 66 articles were analyzed in this review. The findings reveal that authors define and conceptualize TPI variously, some focusing on what TPI is, while others on the aspects that TPI includes, or the process of developing or constructing TPI. The definitions highlight different aspects of TPI depending on the focus of the respective study. There seems to be an agreement that TPI is fluid and constructed throughout one’s career, it is contextual, it encompasses sub-identities, and it is connected with agency. In the review, the author proposes another lens for analyzing TPI – intersectionality. From the analysis of the studies’ aims, five themes emerged: (1) PI construction; (2) identity tensions; (3) influential factors; (4) PI development strategy; (5) theory development. Compared to the 2004 review, it was concluded that contextual factors are more widely studied in TPI research nowadays. This review highlights the definitions and themes in current TPI research. As a result, it serves as a reference point for future research, offering insights into the evolving landscape of teacher professional identity research.
Enhancing Geography Education through Virtual Reality: Exploring Pedagogical and Technological Principles Ieva Tenberga
Authors:   University of Latvia, Tenberga Ieva
Published: November 2024

The new educational content framework Skola2030, which was implemented from 2020 to 2023 in Latvia, made it possible to improve the teaching of geography at the secondary level in order to deepen students’ understanding of the intricate relationships between natural environments and human activities. All traditional educational tools, such as textbooks, infographics, movies, maps, and simulations focusing on the movement of plate tectonics, are available to students. Still, they address only a small portion of the complex internal operations. Textbooks may provide simplified diagrams of volcanoes that do not accurately portray their many characteristics, and videos showing volcanic disasters could misinterpret the true nature of volcanic eruptions. There are also examples when simulations, as well as cartographic resources, just disregard many unique features of some types of volcanoes, overlooking the diverse attributes of different volcano types, concentrating merely on their geographical occurrences. This well-designed education model allows students to carefully explore a vast number of such features as part of a useful learning experience. This can help in fostering a deep awareness of internal processes and their real-world ramifications. The study question focuses on the educational and technological principles needed to create an interactive learning tool for comparing various types of volcanoes in a virtual reality setting. These concepts were identified through a systematic literature review. The established principles can be used as recommendations for developing interactive learning aids to compare different types of volcanoes or to assess similar educational resources.
The Efficacy of a Video Library in Alleviating Math Anxiety: A Cross-Country Analysis of Prospective and Primary School Teachers’ Perspectives
Authors:   Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Arslan Hasan , Popa Maria Cristina , Biclea Diana , Abalı Ozturk Yasemin , Tunçer Kadir , Demir Kaan , Rutkauskienė Danguolė , Daniela Linda , Helmane Ineta ,   Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu,   Baltic Education Technology Institute,   University of Latvia
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the impact of a video library containing learning scenarios for mathematics classes on the perceptions of prospective teachers and primary school teachers, with the primary objective of reducing math anxiety. Participants from five different countries provided 541 responses to a questionnaire, evaluating various aspects of the scenario and video content. The research analyzes the key factors influencing participants’ perceptions and explores diverse comparisons based on status, age, work experience years, and country of origin. The questionnaire covers a range of criteria, including the relevance of content, adherence to didactic principles, integration of new technologies, alignment with mathematics curriculum requirements, incorporation of robotics, and effectiveness in reducing math anxiety. The study further delves into the promotion of purposeful teaching/learning processes, differentiation of tasks, suitability for various literacy levels, and encouragement of active participation. The findings contribute valuable insights into the global applicability of scenario-based videos, especially in leveraging educational robotics to enhance mathematics education and alleviate math anxiety among students.
The Impact of Students’ Morphological Awareness: Systematic Literature Review
Authors:   University of Latvia, Seile Elza
Published: November 2024

In the Latvian education system and society, concerns are growing about students’ language competencies, including grammar. The relevance of these problems is also reflected in societal concerns about insufficient grammar skills and a lack of systematicity in the teaching content. Grammar is a system that includes word formation, morphology and syntax. Mastery of the grammatical systems of native languages is one of the most critical conditions for fully developing a child’s/scholar’s speech and mental abilities; however, it is essential to understand how precisely the comprehension of some regions of grammar influences language usage. Therefore, the research question is – how is “morphological awareness” defined in international literature and what domains of native language use are impacted by it? A systematic literature analysis, with a focus on global perspectives, was conducted to answer this question. The study aimed to clarify the explanation of morphological awareness in international literature (comparing it to what is used in Latvian grammar) and determine its role in using the native language. A comprehensive review of studies from 2003 to 2024 published in the Scopus database was conducted for this study. The material was selected using the keywords “morphological awareness/competence”. Using strict inclusion (articles published between year 2003 and 2024, articles in English) and exclusion criteria (not related to native language acquisition, language not belonging to the Indo-European language family, not focusing on school-aged children, focusing only on students with learning disabilities), 23 articles (from the USA, the UK, Brazil, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, Canada, Norway, Germany, Netherlands) on morphological awareness were selected. These articles were then meticulously analysed, ensuring a thorough and reliable research process, using thematic analysis, focusing on their primary results and conclusions. The article summarises the research results on language domains influenced by morphology and explains the use of morphological awareness in foreign scientific literature. The term mentioned in the analysed studies is primarily related to identifying word composition and realising the meanings of morphemes. Analysing studies on students’ morphological awareness in several Indo-European language families (English, German, French, Dutch, Portuguese, Spanish, and Norwegian), it is concluded that it significantly affects reading comprehension, writing, vocabulary, and pronunciation. Its importance is particularly significant in languages with deep orthography.
Parental Perceptions of Childhood Cancer in Latvia: Coping and Outcomes
Authors:   University of Latvia, Lietaviete Inese , Martinsone Baiba
Published: November 2024

Objectives: The factors that influence parents’ coping strategies after their child is diagnosed with cancer and the outcomes of coping are not fully understood. The challenges of coping can be accompanied by negative consequences, such as posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS), but can also result in positive long-term effects, like posttraumatic growth (PTG) experienced after the struggle of a challenging life event. This study aims to examine the relationship between care­givers’ cognitive beliefs about the illness, personality traits, coping strategies they use to adapt to childhood cancer, and the psychological outcomes (PTSS and PTG) after cancer treatment. Method: A prospective, longitudinal, exploratory design was used in this study. Fifty-nine care­givers (51 mothers, 8 fathers) of pediatric cancer patients completed the Latvian version of the Psychosocial Assessment Tool (PAT) and brief personality measure Big Five Inverntory-10 (BFI-10) shortly after the diagnosis (T1). The second data collection (T2) was after the completion of the curative treatment. During this phase, the Responses to Stress Questionnaire (RSQ), Survivors’ version, the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R), and the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI) were administered. Parents were recruited from Children’s Clinical University Hospital in Riga, Latvia. Results: Significant correlations were found between psychosocial risk factors (e.g., acute stress reactions of parents after diagnosis and negative cognitive beliefs about the illness) at the beginning of the treatment and posttraumatic symptoms after the completion of the treatment. The differences in the choice of coping strategies (Primary / Secondary Control Engagement Coping), as well as two types of involuntary stress responses (involuntary engagement and involuntary disengagement) were observed and were significantly related to posttraumatic outcomes. Implications: The findings indicate that the intricate interconnection of initial cancer perceptions of parents, personality traits, and involuntary coping reactions plays a significant role in influencing levels of PTTS and PTG.
Parents’ Posttraumatic Reactions and Trauma-Related Cognitions after Premature Birth
Authors:   University of Latvia, Brice Marina , Miltuze Anika
Published: November 2024

The aim of the present study was to explore the differences between mothers’ and fathers’ posttraumatic reactions and cognitions after preterm birth. According to Euro-Peristat data, premature births constitute an average of 6.9% of all live births in Europe and potentiate a severely stressful event for parents resulting in different posttraumatic reactions. In accordance with the posttraumatic stress cognitive model, negative cognitive appraisals are critical in sustaining of posttraumatic stress reactions and the development of posttraumatic stress disorder in parents following traumatic childbirth. Some research demonstrated evidence of different parental reactions – fathers showed a more delayed onset in their posttraumatic reactions, but, by 4 months, were at even greater risk than mothers. Therefore, psychological support for fathers was missed or even denied. In this study of the psychological effect of premature birth, mothers and fathers were asked to complete the Impact of Event Scale-Revised and Posttraumatic Cognitions Inventory. Data has been collected from 30 mothers and 24 fathers up to 18 months after birth. Fathers’ and mothers posttraumatic reactions after the premature birth of the infant are significantly different during the time course where fathers showed lower posttraumatic reactions than mothers in the first months, then exceeded reactions of mothers around 7–12 months and equalized around 13–18 months. Differences in trauma-related cognitions for mothers and fathers were noted – fathers had significantly higher scores in the self-blame scale in six months since birth and higher scores in the negative cognitions about the world scale in the next six months. Collected data could help to plan and implement appropriate support for parents of preterm birth infants.
The Cultural Heritage of Character Dance Genre in the Education of a Choreographer in Latvia
Authors:   University of Latvia, Martinsone-Škapare Katrīne
Published: November 2024

Research in the fields of culture and arts is an important resource for the development of cultural and creative industries for the creation of new teaching methods, emphasizing the professional aspects of teaching. In professional dance education, teachers’ theoretical and practical skills, alongside their body language, are of utmost importance and are honed to perfection. The study courses are primarily based on the accepted knowledge of history and cultural heritage, preserving these values as a continuation of traditions in the dance industry. The author has chosen the genre of character dance in professional higher education as the basis of this research. The author provides clear definitions and explanations of the character dance genre, non-national stage folk dance, and stage folk dance in the theoretical research. The background of the empirical study is the professional bachelor’s program in Choreography of the Jāzeps Vītola Latvian Academy of Music, graduated by 283 students from 1977 to 2023. The research test sample consists of 9 graduates of the academy. Qualitative methodology was used in the data, – personalized interviews, – with content analysis at the final stage of the research. The main focus of the research is character dance, non-national stage folk dance in the education of choreographers / dance group leaders, the historical experience of the study course, the inheritance of the cultural heritage of dance, and the improvement of acquired skills in creative work. In the interviews dance industry professionals revealed their views on the vision of character dance, and the development of the non-national stage dance course in the study process today, justifying how essential the preservation of cultural heritage is in the Latvian stage folk dance industry in the interviews. The study emphasizes the significance of the historical legacy of the dance study course, pedagogical learning methods, and professional practical skills in the education of the dance industry.
Workplace Factors Affecting Mental Health: A Perspective from Healthcare Workers in Latvia
Authors:   University of Latvia, Dūdiņa Kristīne , Martinsone Baiba
Published: November 2024

Unique experiences, beliefs and perceptions of factors influencing the mental health of healthcare workers were qualitatively investigated at the close of the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were collected by in-depth interviews with 27 healthcare professionals: nurses, doctors, assistants for nurses and doctors, resident doctors, medical assistants and managers from 7 hospitals of various types, sizes and locations in Latvia. Thematic analysis was used to identify common themes in healthcare workers answers about their mental health. The main themes were 1) work demands, 2) unsustainable workload, 3) interaction with patients, co-workers and managers, 4) individual resources and coping strategies, 5) benefits and support for stress management, including psychological help, 6) COVID-19. Healthcare workers acknowledged that some stressors are inherent to their work: acute situations, exposure to trauma and emotions of the patients and their relatives, high responsibility and difficult decisions. The most widespread stressor influencing the wellbeing of healthcare workers is overload mostly due to staffing shortages. There is not enough time to recover from stressful work. It also leads to more irritability and conflicts with colleagues and patients, there are less resources to improve the quality of work. Interactions with patients, co-workers and managers have a significant influence on well-being. Colleagues are main source of support and it’s important to provide opportunities for informal communication, discussing the work and bonding for resilient teams. Positive communication, constructive feedback and support from the manager are important to cope with stress at work, however several participants express concerns about insufficient support and harsh communication style from manager and unsupportive organization culture. On the individual level, realistic expectations about working in healthcare and solution-oriented acceptance of the job demands helped to cope better due to less sensitivity and assuming responsibility about setting healthy borders, regulating stress at work and self-care after work. Healthcare workers are hesitant to use opportunities for free consultations with a psychologist offered by many hospitals partly due to psychiatric stigma. However, institutions with long term support for the mental health of their employees observe changes in the attitudes, more open communication about difficulties and willingness to use professional support.
Community Empowerment in Ward Antui Subdistrict Bridge Edge of Bengkalis Regency The Role of Village Heads in Developing Institutions
Authors: Darmawan Jody , Afrianda Rendi Tri , Putra Dinda Syufradian
Published: November 2024

This study aims to find out (1) The Role of Lurahs in Fostering Community Empowerment Institutions in the Titian Antui Village Office in Pinggir Bengkalis District, (2) The inhibiting factor of the role of the Lurah in fostering community empowerment institutions in the Titian Antui Village Office in Pinggir Bengkalis District. This research method is descriptive research with a qualitative approach. This descriptive qualitative research is a study that aims to describe. Researchers use source triangulation to check the validity of research data. Data analysis in research II uses three components consisting of data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. Kelurahan Titian Antui, Pinggir District, Bengkalis Regency, social norms/status have been applied, individuals as organizations in society, individuals in social society. (2) The inhibiting factor of the role of the Lurah in fostering community empowerment institutions in the Titian Antui Village Office in Pinggir Bengkalis District is that it has not been coordinated with the sub -district head and vertical agency in its work area