bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social Determinant of Health Impact on Diabetes Device Use and Clinical Outcomes in Youth with Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Crain Emily R. , Ramphul Ryan , Butler Ashley M. , Huang Xiaofan , Minard Charles G. , Redondo Maria J. , DeSalvo Daniel J.
Published: October 2023

Background. Youth with Type 1 diabetes (T1D) who are Black, Hispanic, or lower socioeconomic status (SES) have lower rates of diabetes device use, higher hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and higher rates of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). However, the associations of individual-level social determinants of health (SDoH) and neighborhood-level factors with device use and clinical outcomes are unknown. Area deprivation index (ADI) is a neighborhood level measure of SES reported in deciles (range 1–10 with 10 representing most deprived neighborhood). Methods. We evaluated the association of ADI and other SDoH factors with pump/continuous glucose monitor (CGM) use, HbA1c, and DKA in 1,461 youth with T1D (50% female, age 12.8 ± 3.6 years, HbA1c 8.7 ± 2.1%, 52% pump, 70% CGM) seen between October 1, 2020 and September 30, 2021 at a large pediatric diabetes center. Multiple logistic regression and multiple linear regression analyses were used to determine statistically significant associations adjusting for potential confounders. Results. Youth were less likely to use an insulin pump if they lived in a higher ADI neighborhood, were Black or Hispanic, had Medicaid or were uninsured, or received government assistance (e.g., Supplemental Security Income, Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program). Youth were less likely to use a CGM if they lived in a higher ADI neighborhood, were Black or Hispanic, had Medicaid or were uninsured. Youth had higher risk of DKA event in the past year if they used government assistance, whereas pump and CGM use were associated with lower DKA risk. HbA1c (%) increased by 0.09 (95% CI: 0.05, 0.13) per unit increase in ADI. HbA1c was 0.62 lower (95% CI: −0.82, −0.42) in pump users vs. nonusers and 0.78 lower (95% CI: −0.99, −0.56) in CGM users vs. nonusers. Conclusions. Interventions that tailor care plans to address SDoH in families living in deprived neighborhoods may be needed to increase successful technology uptake, optimize HbA1c, and prevent DKA.
Methionine: An Indispensable Amino Acid in Cellular Metabolism and Health of Atlantic Salmon
Authors: Espe M. , Adam A. C. , Saito T. , Skjærven K. H.
Published: October 2023

Methionine is an indispensable amino acid with an important role as the main methyl donor in cellular metabolism for both fish and mammals. Metabolization of methionine to the methyl donor S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) has consequence for polyamine, carnitine, phospholipid, and creatine synthesis as well as epigenetic modifications such as DNA- and histone tail methylation. Methionine can also be converted to cysteine and contributes as a precursor for taurine and glutathione synthesis. Moreover, methionine is the start codon for every protein being synthetized and thereby serves an important role in initiating translation. Modern salmon feed is dominated by plant ingredients containing less taurine, carnitine, and creatine than animal-based ingredients. This shift results in competition for SAM due to an increasing need to endogenously synthesize associated metabolites. The availability of methionine has profound implications for various metabolic pathways including allosteric regulation. This necessitates a higher nutritional need to meet the requirement as a methyl donor, surpassing the quantities for protein synthesis and growth. This comprehensive review provides an overview of the key metabolic pathways in which methionine plays a central role as methyl donor and unfolds the implications for methylation capacity, metabolism, and overall health particularly emphasizing the development of fatty liver, oxidation, and inflammation when methionine abundance is insufficient focusing on nutrition for Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar).
Thermo-Responsive Shape Memory Thermoplastic Elastomer Based on Natural Rubber and Ethylene Octene Copolymer Blends
Authors: Kalkornsurapranee Ekwipoo , Keereerak Adisak , Lehman Nussana , Tuljittraporn Akarapong , Johns Jobish , Uthaipan Nattapon
Published: October 2023

The shape memory (SM) polymers with superior SM properties were successfully fabricated based on melt blending of natural rubber (NR) and ethylene octene copolymer (EOC) at various crystallinity of EOC phase. The differential scanning calorimetry analysis, mechanical properties, temperature scanning stress relaxation, and shape memory properties were studied. Results revealed that the mechanical and thermal properties of the prepared NR/EOC blends improved as a function of amount of ethylene fraction in the EOC phase. The ethylene segment of EOC in the NR/EOC blend is triggered as a stimulus-sensitive domain. The shape memory properties in terms of shape fixity and shape recovery efficiencies of the blends tended to increase with the increasing of crystalline segments in the blends. The shape memory properties of the prepared blends substantially exceed the best performance (close to 100%) by blending the NR/EOC at 50/50 parts by weight, having 62%–80% of ethylene content in the EOC phase, which corresponds to approximately 3°–16° of crystallinity of EOC phase in the blends.
Apremilast in Patients Difficult to Treat: A Multicentric Real‐Life Long‐Term Experience
Authors: Trovato Emanuele , Capalbo Eugenio , Cartocci Alessandra , Buggiani Gionata , Cuccia Aldo , Ghilardi Alberto , Panduri Salvatore , Savarese Imma , Guiducci Serena , Prignano Francesca
Published: October 2023

Psoriasis is an inflammatory disease nowadays considered not only as a cutaneous but also as a systemic disease. Systemic therapy plays a crucial role in the management of psoriasis. Apremilast is an inhibitor of phosphodiesterase‐4 (PDE4), indicated in the treatment of moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis. Here, we report a multicentric case series of patients treated with apremilast with resolution of skin manifestations and maintenance of clinical response for a minimum of 2 years. By inhibiting PDE4, apremilast acts as a ubiquitous intracellular enzyme, whose active form degrades adenosine cyclic intracellular monophosphate (cAMP) into AMP. The increase in cAMP determines a decrease in proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF‐a, IL‐17, IL‐23, and upregulation of IL‐10 with an anti‐inflammatory action. Considering the growing incidence of comorbidities in the world population and in particular the strict correlation in patients with psoriasis, it is important to identify therapeutic options able to avoid a negative impact on patients with both conditions. The aim of this work is to highlight the utility of this molecule in the long‐term management of these patients. Moreover, these case series further underline the high safety profile and manageability of this small molecule.
Figure S7 from Sigma1 Regulates Lipid Droplet–mediated Redox Homeostasis Required for Prostate Cancer Proliferation
Authors: Oyer Halley M. , Steck Alexandra R. , Longen Charles G. , Venkat Sanjana , Bayrak Konuralp , Munger Eleanor B. , Fu Dan , Castagnino Paola A. , Sanders Christina M. , Tancler Nathalia A. , Mai My T. , Myers Justin P. , Schiewer Matthew J. , Chen Nan , Mostaghel Elahe A. , Kim Felix J.
Published: October 2023

ATGL PLIN5 induction
FIGURE 8 from Sigma1 Regulates Lipid Droplet–mediated Redox Homeostasis Required for Prostate Cancer Proliferation
Authors: Oyer Halley M. , Steck Alexandra R. , Longen Charles G. , Venkat Sanjana , Bayrak Konuralp , Munger Eleanor B. , Fu Dan , Castagnino Paola A. , Sanders Christina M. , Tancler Nathalia A. , Mai My T. , Myers Justin P. , Schiewer Matthew J. , Chen Nan , Mostaghel Elahe A. , Kim Felix J.
Published: October 2023

Working Model. Sigma1 targeting disrupts LD-mediated redox homeostasis in prostate cancer cells. LD, lipid droplet; TG, triacylglycerol; DHT, dihydrotestosterone; ROS, reactive oxygen species.
Synergistic Impact of Visual and Cognitive Impairments on Health-Related Quality of Life in a Multiethnic Asian Population
Authors: Vu Tai Anh , Gupta Preeti , Gan Alfred TL , Fenwick Eva K. , Man Ryan EK. , Sabanayagam Charumathi , Cheng Ching-Yu , Lamoureux Ecosse L
Published: October 2023

Introduction: The concomitant impact of visual impairment (VI) and cognitive impairment (CI) on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in older adults is unclear. We aimed to determine the synergistic effect of baseline VI and CI on HRQoL decline at 6 years in multiethnic Asians. Methods: We included Chinese, Malay, and Indian adults aged ≥60 years who participated in baseline (2004–2011) and 6-year (2011–2017) follow-up visits of the Singapore Epidemiology of Eye Diseases Study, a population-based cohort study in Singapore. Visual acuity (VA) was objectively measured at both visits, with VI defined as presenting VA >0.3 LogMAR in the better eye. CI was defined as Abbreviated Mental Test scores of ≤6 and ≤8 for individuals with ≤6 and >6 years of formal education, respectively. HRQoL was measured using the European Quality of Life-5 Dimensions (EQ-5D) questionnaire. HRQoL decline was defined as the difference in the composite EQ-5D scores at baseline and 6-year follow-up and deemed clinically meaningful if the reduction was equal to or larger than the minimal clinically important difference. Multivariable linear regression assessed the independent associations and synergism (β interaction) between baseline VI and CI on EQ-5D decline. Results: Of the 2,433 participants (mean [SD] age: 67.6 [5.5]) at baseline, 559, 120, and 151 had VI only, CI only, and both impairments, respectively. HRQoL decline in individuals with baseline comorbid VI-CI was clinically meaningful and was 2.0 times (β = −0.044, 95% confidence interval: −0.077 to −0.010) and 3.7 times (β = −0.065, 95% confidence interval: −0.11 to −0.022) larger than those with VI only and CI only, respectively. Importantly, there was a significant synergism (β interaction = −0.048, 95% confidence interval: −0.095 to −0.001) between baseline VI and CI as predictors of HRQoL decline, suggesting that individuals having both conditions concurrently had a greater HRQoL reduction than the sum in those with VI alone and CI alone. The affected HRQoL domains included mobility and usual activities. Conclusions: Concomitant VI-CI potentiated HRQoL decline to a greater extent than the sum of individual contributions of VI and CI, suggesting synergism. Our results suggest that rehabilitative interventions such as the use of mobility aids and occupational therapy are needed to maintain HRQoL in older adults with concomitant VI-CI. Moreover, preventive interventions targeting at early detection and management of both VI and CI may also be beneficial.
Electronic Acute Kidney Injury Alert at the Brandenburg Medical School: Implementation and Follow-Up
Authors: Assem Alicia , Safi Wajima , Ritter Oliver , Patschan Daniel
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Acute kidney injury (AKI) substantially worsens the prognosis of hospitalized patients worldwide. In order to optimize early AKI recognition and therapeutic intervention, AKI alert systems have been implemented and evaluated in the past. Herein, we aimed to analyze outcome variables of AKI patients under the conditions of a de novo-established AKI alert system at the Brandenburg Hospital of the Brandenburg Medical School. Methods: Automated e-mail messages were generated and sent to the nephrologist with responsibility based on an electronic algorithm. The message was exclusively generated if one of the two first KDIGO criteria was fulfilled. During period 1, all alerts were ignored. During the second period, every alert was followed up, coupled with therapeutic management of respective individuals according to an AKI care bundle. Endpoints were in-hospital death, need for dialysis, and renal recovery. Results: In periods 1 and 2, 200 and 112 patients were included. In period 1, 150 out of 200 AKI alerts were identified as correct (75%); in the second period, 93 out of 112 AKI alerts were accepted as correct (83%) (p = 0.16). Kidney replacement therapy was initiated in 21 (14%) of all period 1 patients and in 32 (34.4%) of the period 2 patients (p = 0.017). In-hospital mortality of affected patients was 24 (16%) in period 1 and 21 (22.5%) in period 2 (p = 0.4). Restoration of kidney function was 69 (46%) in period 1 and 45 (48.3%) in period 2 (p = 0.71). Conclusions: We finally conclude that an AKI alert system, as implemented and followed-up in our study, did not significantly improve clinically relevant endpoints in AKI patients. Potential weaknesses were the lack of documentation of the time between receiving the alert and patient contact, and physicians in responsibility were not particularly informed about the alert system.
Two-Step Iridocorneal Endothelial Syndrome Management: Endocapsular Intraocular Lens and Artificial Iris Followed by Descemet’s Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty
Authors: Pinheiro-Costa João , Coelho-Costa Inês , Falcão-Reis Fernando , Monteiro Tiago , Falcão Manuel
Published: October 2023

A 54-year-old female presented with complaints of glare and progressive visual loss OS with a corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) OS of 20/100. The patient had grade 1 corneal edema with a “beaten bronze” appearance on specularly reflected light, pseudopolycoria, and a nuclear sclerotic cataract. The diagnosis of nuclear cataract and progressive iris atrophy iridocorneal endothelial (ICE) syndrome was made, and the patient underwent uneventful phacoemulsification with capsular bag placement of an AcrySof SA60AT intraocular lens combined with pseudopolycoria repair using an endocapsular Model A REPER artificial iris. Six months later, the patient was submitted to a Descemet’s stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) procedure, and 6 months after that the CDVA was 20/32 with no corneal edema and normal intraocular pressure. This two-step surgical approach, combining phacoemulsification and endocapsular foldable iris prosthesis placement followed by DSAEK, may be considered a promising option to successfully treat progressive iris atrophy ICE syndrome patients.
Transcrocetin Meglumine Salt Inhibits Spinal Glial Cell-Mediated Proinflammatory Cytokines and Attenuates Complete Freund’s Adjuvant-Induced Inflammatory Pain
Authors: Qiao Qing , Yao Dandan , Wang Yongjie , Zhang Shuxia , Chen Gang
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Inflammatory pain is a significant global clinical challenge that involves both unpleasant sensory and emotional experiences. The treatment of pain is imminent, and we are committed to seeking new analgesics for pain relief. Transcrocetin meglumine salt (TCMS), a saffron metabolite derived from the crocin apocarotenoids, has exhibited the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and exert neuroprotective effects. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether TCMS could ameliorate complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA)-induced inflammatory pain in mice and elucidate its underlying mechanisms. Methods: Here, we established an inflammatory pain model in mice by injecting CFA into the left hind paw. Three days later, we administered intraperitoneal injections of TCMS (10 mg/kg) or saline to the animals. We examined mechanical allodynia, thermal hypersensitivity, and anxiety behavior. Furthermore, the activation of glial cells and proinflammatory cytokines in the spinal cord were detected. Results: Our results showed that TCMS significantly reversed the mechanical allodynia and thermal hypersensitivity in the CFA-injected mice. Furthermore, TCMS administration effectively inhibited the activation of microglia and astrocytes in the spinal cord induced by CFA. Additionally, TCMS suppressed the production and release of spinal proinflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, in CFA-injected mice. Conclusion: Taken together, our findings demonstrate that TCMS holds promise as an innovative analgesic due to its ability to ameliorate inflammatory reactions.
Safety and Effectiveness of Trastuzumab Biosimilar SB3 in Korean Patients, a Post-Marketing Surveillance Study
Authors: Jeon Changwan , Kang Su Hwan , Kim Sung-Bae , Paik Nam-Sun , Lee Ilkyun , Kim Seung Ki , Kim Eun Young , Son Gil Soo , Yoo Young Bum , Lee Kyung-Hee , Shin JeongSoo , Ju Sungil , Jang Harah , Park Min Ho
Published: October 2023

Introduction: SB3 is a trastuzumab biosimilar approved in Australia, Brazil, Canada, the European Union, the Republic of Korea, Switzerland, and the USA. This real-world study evaluated safety and effectiveness of SB3 as part of the Korean post approval safety management system. Methods: This post-marketing surveillance in Korea included patients in line with approved indications, i.e., patients with early or metastatic breast cancer or metastatic gastric cancer. Safety outcomes were adverse events (AEs) and adverse drug reactions. Effectiveness outcomes were tumor response and event-free survival. Results: 424 patients were evaluated: 366 patients (86%) with early breast cancer, 53 patients (13%) with metastatic breast cancer, and 5 patients (1%) with metastatic gastric cancer. Among patients with breast cancer, AEs (mostly mild) and adverse drug reactions were reported by 158 (37.7%) and 57 (13.6%) patients, respectively. Most patients with an AE (141, 89.2%) had no change in treatment schedule. Treatment was temporarily suspended in 14 (8.9%) patients with an AE and completely discontinued in 7 (4.4%). Among patients with early and metastatic breast cancer who were evaluated for efficacy, objective response rates were 82.7% and 38.3%, respectively. Pathological complete response was 64.6% in patients with early breast cancer. Discussion/Conclusion: Safety and efficacy of SB3 demonstrated in this real-world study were comparable with previous studies of reference trastuzumab.
Effects of Low Luteinizing Hormone Serum Levels on Oocyte Retrieval, Fertilization Rate, and Embryo Quality during Controlled Ovarian Stimulation: Results from a Prospective Cohort Analysis
Authors: Dragotto Jessica , Buzzaccarini Giovanni , Etrusco Andrea , Laganà Antonio Simone , Venezia Renato , Terzic Sanja , Dellino Miriam , Margioula-Siarkou Chrysoula , Unfer Vittorio , Bianco Bianca , Casadio Paolo , Bracchitta Giovanni
Published: October 2023

Objectives: Luteinizing hormone (LH) plays a key role in normal follicular development and oocyte maturation in controlled ovarian stimulation. LH stimulates the proliferation and differentiation of theca cells for the secretion of androgens, synergistically increasing estrogen production. This study aimed to investigate the effects of low LH concentrations on oocyte retrieval, fertilization, and embryo development in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Design: We prospectively (ClinicalTrials ID: NCT05755529) analyzed patients undergoing in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection, subdividing them into three groups according to their age. Serum LH levels were evaluated on day 3, during stimulation (day 10) and before ovulation induction (day 12). Participants/Materials, Setting, Methods: Forty-three consecutive women were scheduled for IVF and received ovarian stimulation with follitropin alfa (Gonal F, Merck Serono, Germany) and ganirelix (Fyremaldel, Sun Pharma, Italy). Statistical analysis was performed with InStat 3.10, GraphPad software, San Diego, CA, USA. Normal distribution was tested by the Shapiro-Wilk test. Continuous variables were expressed as the mean and standard deviation. Categorical variables are expressed as frequencies and percentages. Results: Our data analysis suggests that serum LH levels progressively decrease during controlled ovarian stimulation, and this effect is more evident in the early phase of this procedure. From this perspective, circulating LH levels may significantly decrease during the late follicular phase due to the negative feedback of ovarian hormones from multiple follicular developments or after the suppressive effects of gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonists. Limitations: Although our study confirms that exogenous LH can be considered a strategy in women with reduced LH levels during ovarian stimulation to improve oocyte quality and reproductive outcome, the generalizability of the results is limited by the low number of participants enrolled. Conclusions: Exogenous LH may be considered a strategy in women with a decrease in LH levels during ovarian stimulation to improve oocyte quality and reproductive outcome.
Sickle Cell Disease and CKD: An Update
Authors: Zahr Rima S. , Saraf Santosh L.
Published: October 2023

Background: Sickle cell disease is an inherited red blood cell disorder that affects approximately 100,000 people in the USA and 25 million people worldwide. Vaso-occlusion and chronic hemolysis lead to dysfunction of vital organ systems, with the kidneys being among the most commonly affected organs. Summary: Early renal manifestations include medullary ischemia with the loss of urine-concentrating ability and hyperfiltration. This can be followed by progressive damage characterized by persistent albuminuria and a decline in the estimated glomerular filtration rate. The risk of sickle nephropathy is greater in those with the APOL1 G1 and G2 kidney risk variants and variants in HMOX1 and lower in those that coinherit α-thalassemia. Therapies to treat sickle cell disease-related kidney damage focus on sickle cell disease-modifying therapies (e.g., hydroxyurea) or those adopted from the nonsickle cell disease kidney literature (e.g., renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors), although data on their clinical efficacy are limited to small studies with short follow-up periods. Kidney transplantation for end-stage kidney disease improves survival compared to hemodialysis but is underutilized in this patient population. Key Messages: Kidney disease is a major contributor to early mortality, and more research is needed to understand the pathophysiology and develop targeted therapies to improve kidney health in sickle cell disease.
Risk factors of student failure in a blended learning instruction during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Tibus Erlinda Dacara , Napalla Jahara Dagangan , Ledesma Sybill Krizzia Gabronino
Published: October 2023

With the advent of COVID-19, universities abruptly shifted to blended learning instruction to suit the necessity of education despite the pandemic. This emerging course design has led to an increase in the number of blended courses in higher education. It came with advantages, especially in the time of the pandemic. However, this type of instruction has brought risk factors of student failure. In this study, through exploratory factor analysis, it was identified that four factors had affected the students at risk of failure in a blended learning instruction, they were: i) Virtual environment; ii) Degree of intrinsic motivation; iii) Virtual classroom conduct; and iv) Perceived inability. Students were found to be experiencing these factors, which hinder their performance in the blended learning modality. These students have needs that must be attended to. Therefore, there is a need to modify existing teaching approaches that best suit and cater to these needs in a blended or virtual classroom setup.
Exploring the relationship between teacher job satisfaction and professional development in urban schools during a pandemic
Authors: Juhji Juhji , Syarifudin Encep , Supardi Supardi , Paiman Paiman , Indriana Dina , Sutanto Sutanto , Ruhiawati Irma Yunita , Rahmawati Ima
Published: October 2023

Job satisfaction and professional development are the talks of teachers in facing the challenges of 21st-century learning, where they must be able to adapt to the progress and development of information and communication in technology. Therefore, this article aims to analyze teacher job satisfaction, professional development, and the interaction between the two during the pandemic. A total of 232 public and private school teachers in urban areas were used as research samples. The sampling technique used a random technique. The research used an instrument developed and validated, then distributed through the principal and school supervisor, and the data were analyzed using the correlation technique. During the pandemic, the results revealed a high level of job satisfaction for state Islamic school teachers and a low level of job satisfaction for private Islamic school teachers, as well as a high level of professional development in both public and private Islamic schools and a moderate positive correlation between teacher job satisfaction and professional development in urban schools. Therefore, teachers should develop and carry out professional development in facing the challenges of 21st-century learning.
Recognizing bio-literacy in nature: An ethnozoological photovoice-based approach to prospective teacher
Authors: Hernawati Diana , Meylani Vita
Published: October 2023

This qualitative study aims to examine the learning experiences of prospective teachers through the photovoice approach. This research employs photovoice taken by the prospective teachers to obtain main themes regarding the scientific perceptions of the students in ethnozoological bio-literacy studies. This research was conducted in three different places, mountain sites, beaches, and nature reserve tourism destinations. There were 135 prospective teachers divided into nine groups producing 675 photos. The themes include several examples of animal rehabilitation for recovery, animal breeding and increasing of endemic animal populations to natural habitat (ex-situ), habituation of animals, changes in animal behavior, and sale of economically valuable animal shells. Study findings suggest that education must consider themes that arise in the surrounding environment to individualizing their observations in ways meaningful to them and enabling them to assimilate or accommodate the experiences to their schema. Drawing on this empirical evidence, the practical implication of ethnozoological photovoice is further discussed in this study. Based on the perspective of prospective teacher by the difference photograph and difference sites (mountain, beach, and nature reserve tourism) they are found the positive or negative meaning of photograph.
The feasibility of 12-year compulsory education policy in Malaysia from the perspective of B40 parents
Authors: Janjang Juliana Mohd , Mohd Nor Mohamed Yusoff , A. Hamid Aida Hanim
Published: October 2023

Compulsory education in Malaysia is limited to primary education within 6 years compared to the international level (8 to 12 years). There is concern that because other levels of education are still optional, enrolment will fall. It is suggested to prolong compulsory education to a total of 12 years to ensure that students obtain preschool and secondary education. As a result, a survey of 278 B40 parents or socioeconomic parents with household income less than RM4850 in urban and rural primary schools was conducted to determine the level of understanding, readiness, and acceptance of the feasibility of implementing the 12-year compulsory education policy. A valid and reliable questionnaire instrument was administered online and subsequently analyzed using SPSS Version 26. The study’s results revealed that the level of understanding (M=3.564, SD=0.462), readiness (M=3.529, SD=0.491), and their acceptance (M=3.568, SD=0.495) were very high and there were no significant differences for each dimension based on location. In principle, this indicates that B40 parents support the intention to expand our country’s policy on compulsory education. Policymakers could employ this finding to modify the current compulsory education policy in the future.
Indonesia higher education’s online learning during the pandemic state
Authors: Rukmini Elisabeth , Angelina Hanna , Anggreni Viktoria Cosinta
Published: October 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought significant changes in Indonesian higher education to switch the learning activities to online learning. During the online learning implementations, researchers tried to record the changes and discussed the problems they faced. This systematic review aimed to summarize the growth of online learning for Indonesian higher education during the COVID-19 and to describe the connection between trends of online learning’s growth and stakeholders’ interests. Ultimately, this systematic review wanted to forecast the scenario after seeing the overall progress of online learning in higher education institutions in Indonesia. The authors conducted a systematic literature review using PRISMA protocol and collected articles from Google Scholar, EBSCOHost, SAGE, Taylor & Francis, and Proquest. A total of 1,206 studies were retrieved from all databases. The authors excluded some articles that did not come originally from Indonesia, did not involve participants from universities, and were not empirical research. A final eighty-six articles were collected for analysis. The results revealed that infrastructure, interactivity, and readiness were the three main discussions for all Indonesian higher education stakeholders. The authors provided four scenarios for online learning in Indonesia, and the Cyber Growth scenario was the preferred scenario for higher education in Indonesia.
Scholar’s vocabulary-knowledge favored listening-reading tenets: Concurrences from Madura
Authors: Wicaksana Roziyan Adi , Hasanah Shofiyatul , Pradipta Parahita , Efendi Erfan
Published: October 2023

The study objective was to seek the favored tenets betwixt mobile-assisted-language-learning (MALL) listening-reading appliances by video-conferencing-technology (VCT) and direct-listening-reading appliances to Madurese-scholar’s second-language (L2) vocabulary-knowledge (VK) listening-reading competencies. The analysis of variance (ANOVA), which produced concurrences, contained 41 scholars in two distinct emplacements amidst a Madurese-scholars preponderance and the different amounts in groups. Several significant conclusions emerged from the current ANOVA analysis. First, the comprehensive implication betwixt MALL listening-reading-appliance and direct-listening-reading-appliance to scholar’s L2-VK listening-reading competencies was not substantiated because it was more than level significant (0.440>0.05). Second, we convened cognizance by direct perception, inside and outside deliberation, and documented it. Third, the cross-examination eventualities of perception-documentation were coded, and research eventualities established the Madurese-scholar higher education framework to pervade case study evidence vacuity that aims to scrutinize: i) the Madurese-scholar teaching-learning peculiarities performance of MALL-VCT-Zoom and Smart-TV multimedia edification; ii) Madurese-scholar interminable concurrences in MALL-VCT-Zoom and Smart-TV; and iii) impediments obtain by MALL-VCT-Zoom and Smart-TV during participation in edification. Irrevocably, concurrence betwixt MALL-VCT-Zoom and smart-TV to scholars’ L2-VK listening-reading competencies were interrelated impacts as Madurese-scholars can learn conveniently with their necessity and concurrently utilize smart-TV or Zoom despite their impediments.
Organizational culture and management practices at technical vocational education and training colleges
Authors: Makole Kaizer Raseane , Ntshangase Bhekabantu Alson , Msosa Steven Kayambazinthu
Published: October 2023

Building an effective organizational culture of high performance has proven to be elusive amongst strategic and operational managers of selected public technical vocational education and training (TVET) colleges in the Gauteng province in the post-merger period of 2007 to 2010. Poor organizational culture demonstrated by a lack of the Ubuntu principles of humanness and teamwork; management inefficiency and instability undermined the role of public TVET colleges in the Gauteng province, South Africa. The identified knowledge gap is a paucity of information on how the values of Ubuntu are infused into management practices to improve organizational management practices. A mixed methods research approach that adopted multiple case studies, unstructured interviews and survey questionnaires was undertaken to assess an organizational culture and management practices by strategic and operational managers, and lecturers at selected public TVET colleges. Descriptive statistical and thematic analyses were employed to generate, interpret, and analyze the findings from participating managers and lecturers. The findings revealed the need to re-purpose public TVET colleges in South Africa to align with the strategic priorities and goals of the National Development Plan: Vision 2030. Strategic and operational managers should also be capacitated with stakeholder relations building and management skills to create student workplace opportunities with businesses and industries.
Exploration of the fear of missing out internet based on demography
Authors: Syahputra Yuda , Miswanto Miswanto , Hafni Merri
Published: October 2023

Rapid technological developments make it easier for humans to carry out daily activities. Technology that is experiencing very rapid development today is information technology, one of which is a smartphone. Smartphones require internet access to be able to perform as a sophisticated mobile phone. The purpose of this study is to measure the difference in fear of missing out (FoMO) internet students based on gender, faculty, and domicile based on the area of residence. The method in this study uses descriptive comparative, which combines two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Rasch racking model by transforming raw data into logarithmic data. The data in this study were five-point Likert scale polytomy data collected using the FoMO scale instrument which was disseminated online and the research data were analyzed using the Rasch model. The findings show that there are significant differences in FoMO internet in terms of men and women. Furthermore, this study discusses differences in the FoMO internet regarding faculty and domicile, therefore a context is needed to improve the alignment program with technology counseling.
Student challenging behavior with a positive behavior support training for teachers: A case study
Authors: Kuswardani Hasna Pratiwi , Paramita Pramesti Pradna
Published: October 2023

Challenging behavior is repetitive behavior that risks interfering with learning or involvement in prosocial interactions. Challenging behaviors are often shown by students and difficult to manage, such as: defiance and noncompliance, destruction, disruption, physical aggression, self-injury, social withdrawal, socially inappropriate behavior, stereotypes, and verbal aggression. One of the ways of good classroom management is through Tier 1 Positive Behavior Support (PBS) training. It is very necessary for students and teachers when they are in the school environment because it can create a conducive classroom atmosphere. Therefore, the researcher designed a Tier 1 PBS training program that focuses on the teacher’s ability to manage the classroom using a proactive strategy as opposed to a reactive strategy. The subjects of this training were seven teachers of Islamic junior high school in Central Java, Indonesia. The experimental design was conducted without using a control group and using pre-test and post-test for evaluation. The findings indicated that Tier 1 PBS training is effective in increasing the ability of teachers to use proactive classroom management strategies and reducing the use of reactive classroom management strategies.
Exploring the construct of meaning in life among the senior undergraduate student
Authors: Setiawati Farida Agus , Purwanta Edi
Published: October 2023

The meaning in life is a fundamental human behavior that plays an essential role in self-development. The concept of meaning in life continues to focus on researchers using various theoretical perspectives. This study explored the construct of meaning in life from the vantage point of undergraduate students in their final year. They were chosen by considering the severity of the developmental tasks that must be completed during this time. By using the mixed-method approach, the study found the concept of meaning in life through the qualitative method. Some themes were related to the meaning of life, namely: experiencing a number of important events, being devoted to religion, learning from life, feeling positive emotions, benefiting others, interacting socially, and caring for oneself. The study was followed by a quantitative method through exploratory factor analysis and found that the construct of the meaning in life consisted of three factors, namely: facing difficult and severe situations, getting lessons from unpleasant situations, and thinking flexibly when dealing with various situations. This measurement model could be used in the development of meaning in life theory. Practically, it becomes the reference in solving the life problems.
Exploring the challenges in classroom assessment: A mixed-method study of secondary schools in Pakistan
Authors: Shah Syed Kamran Ali , Butt Muqaddas , Saleem Ayesha , Rafique Muhammad Usman
Published: October 2023

In the process of classroom assessment, data is collected regarding the skills, understanding and knowledge of students. It has very important role in enhancing academic achievement of students. Present study was designed at exploring the challenges of classroom assessment. The sample of study contained a sample of 360 participants and a concurrent mixed-method design was deployed to conduct the research. Data collection was carried out using researchers’ self-developed questionnaire. The collected data was analyzed using statistical software of SPSS version 24.0 for descriptive and inferential stats. For collection and analyses of qualitative data, classroom observation and semi-structured interviews were also conducted. The study explored those major challenges included lack of interest of both, the parents and the students; insufficient guidance on the assessment by school administration; and less or no provision of professional training in assessment to the teachers. It was recommended that the school administration should take appropriate steps for the involvement of all stakeholders. Extensive professional training should be provided to all the teachers on regular basis by the concerned departments.
Mathematical competencies with applications of mirror classes in regular basic education
Authors: Baldeón De La Cruz Maruja Dionisia , Vasquez Tomás Melba Rita , Yangali Vicente Judith Soledad , Holguin-Alvarez Jhon
Published: October 2023

The problem about learning in mathematics lies in the lack of application of teaching strategies for the resolution of the calculation in mathematical problems, problems of movement, mathematical regularity, equivalence, and uncertainty; in populations with difficulties to learn collaboratively. Here the application of mirror classes in populations with interactive problems is demonstrated, thus contributing to strengthening their knowledge from cooperative information management, the use of analysis skills based on co-evaluation. In this sense, the purpose of the study was to evaluate the mirror class, as a pedagogical strategy, in order to optimize the competence of solution of quantity problems in basic school students of two educational institutions in Lima, Peru. The study was conducted under the action research approach where the diagnostic and exit test, question guide and field diary were the instruments used for data collection. It was concluded that the mirror class as a pedagogical strategy favors the optimization of competition and solves quantity problems in basic education students. So, they also developed concrete knowledge, to assign them in cognition more enduringly as a form of social learning.
Teacher’s understanding of teaching models and students’ human literacy
Authors: Ulfatun Titik , Suyatmini Suyatmini , Kusumaningtyas Arnida , Setiyawan Yovi Annang
Published: October 2023

The strengthening of students’ human literacy can be done through appropriate learning processes and models of teaching. The purpose of this study is to explore teachers’ understanding of models of teaching and whether the applied models can strengthen students’ human literacy. This qualitative case study of two vocational high schools in Surakarta used semi-structured interviews and documentation for data collection purposes. The results of this study found that teachers have an unsuitable understanding of models of teaching employed in Basic Accounting subject. In the interviews, the respondents of this study explained the types of learning media used (PowerPoint, Zoom, recordings, WhatsApp Group, and Quizizz) and methods of teaching (lectures and assignments), instead of models of teaching (discovery learning, inquiry-based learning, project-based learning, and problem-based learning). Even though the lesson plans they compiled have mentioned models of teaching, teachers felt that these models were not sufficient to strengthen students’ human literacy. These findings can help teachers to revisit the models of teaching used in the classroom with a proper understanding. Teachers are advised to improve their understanding of concepts related to teaching and learning activities. In addition, it is highly necessary for teachers to apply different models of teaching to strengthen students’ human literacy.
Science, technology, engineering, agriculture, mathematics, and health in agribusiness curriculum
Authors: Fatimah Ai Tusi , Isyanto Agus Yuniawan , Toto Toto
Published: October 2023

Vocational high school curriculum can provide various solutions to problems in the business and industrial worlds that require a variety of disciplines. The complex problem-solving in the real world has increased the multidisciplinary boundaries of science, technology, engineering, agriculture, mathematics, and health (STEAM-H). Therefore, this study investigated teachers’ understanding of the coherence and integration of the vocational high school curriculum in the crop agribusiness program in STEAM-H. The sample population consisted of science, mathematics, and productive teachers from a crop agribusiness vocational high school in Ciamis, Indonesia. The results showed that participants’ understanding of curriculum coherence began with the knowledge of the existence of conceptual connections between subjects, essential concepts, explicit or implicit, and concepts outside or within the curriculum. Furthermore, the productive teachers were more aware of implicit subject connections in this study. Teachers often had different points of view on the essential concepts listed in the curriculum. The results also showed that agriculture is a conceptual integrator for science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or health for integrated STEAM-H learning, as well as a contextual integrator for subject-centered education. The teachers argued that the multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary, and transdisciplinary patterns were suitable for implementation with strategies agreed upon across all subjects. Therefore, the understanding of teachers is expected to change integrated learning in crop agribusiness schools to an independent curriculum.
Integrated teaching in primary schools: A systematic review of current practices, barriers, and future developments
Authors: Nguyen Giang Thi Chau , Thai Dao Thi
Published: October 2023

Recent years have seen a rise in the use of integrated teaching in many nations across the globe due to the vital role it plays in the delivery of primary education programs that focus on the growth of students’ abilities. However, a comprehensive review of integrated classroom practices in elementary schools has yet to be conducted, making it difficult for interested readers to make education decisions about entering the sector or for established experts to keep up with the latest developments. To fill this gap, we performed a meta-analysis using the PRISMA procedure and a comprehensive literature search. Following the PRISMA guidelines, the study analyzed 24 publications on integrated teaching in primary school that appeared in Scopus and Google Scholar between 2014 and 2022. The study used text analysis and synthesis to highlight active nations, extracted keywords, drawing obstacles and challenges, and future research opportunities. The result reported 13 types of obstacles and challenges that need to be overcome in the long run. As such, five research directions were compiled based on prior publications, namely as teachers’ training program, integrated teaching materials, integrated teaching models, school policies and other interventions, and others. Interested readers, prospective researchers and policymakers could benefit from these findings by tackling existing issues or investigating recommended research directions.
Validity of instrument to measure primary school mathematics teachers’ acceptance of m-learning applications
Authors: Zakaria Mohamad Ikram , Abdul Hanid Mohd Fadzil
Published: October 2023

Mobile learning (M-learning) is one of the proposed technology-based methods for teaching mathematics in today’s education 4.0 era. This method enables teachers to conduct instruction and learning without being bounded by walls, wires, and the need for specialized physical infrastructure and facilities. This study was conducted to develop and validate an instrument for evaluating primary school mathematics teachers’ acceptance of M-learning applications in problem-solving teaching involving six variables. This research is quantitative and utilizes a questionnaire to collect data. This study involved a total of four experts and 120 participants. Cronbach’s alpha and Exploratory Factor Analysis were used to perform a descriptive analysis of the data. Cronbach’s alpha was determined to be 0.934, with a factor eigenvalue greater than 1. The Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin value for each construct is 0.50, whereas Bartlett’s test value is statistically significant (<0.5). Each item has a factor loading of 0.50 and a variance of ≥60%. The findings showed that this instrument contains six constructs and nineteen appropriate items. It also indicated that this instrument could be used to investigate perceptions of the primary school mathematics teachers’ acceptance of m-learning applications in problem-solving teaching instruments involving performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, behavioral intention, and usage behavior (attitude).
Students’ mathematical literacy skill in term of gender differences: A comparative study
Authors: Suprapto Edy , Suryani Nunuk , Siswandari Siswandari , Mardiyana Mardiyana
Published: October 2023

The emergence of the 21st century requires the younger generation to be able to face increasingly fierce global competition. One of the skills needed by the younger generation in this century is mathematical literacy. This ability needs to be improved in learning at school. One important factor that must be considered in learning mathematics literacy is gender differences. Therefore, this study aims to identify students' literacy abilities and find out the differences between male and female students at Madiun State Middle School. This research uses a quantitative approach in the form of a comparative study. The research sample of 336 students was analyzed using descriptive analysis and the Mann-Whitney test. The results of the study concluded that the ability of female students’ mathematical literacy was much higher than that of male students. Female students excel in terms of representation, modeling, mathematical communication, and problem posing and solving skills. Meanwhile, male students excel in terms of using math symbols and mathematical thinking and reasoning.