Acquisition Of Experience Research Articles

Speech-Processing Network Formation of Cochlear-Implanted Toddlers With Early Hearing Experiences.

To reveal the formation process of speech processing with early hearing experiences, we tracked the development of functional connectivity in the auditory and language-related cortical areas of 84 (36 female) congenitally deafened toddlers using repeated functional near-infrared spectroscopy for up to 36 months post cochlear implantation (CI). Upon hearing restoration, the CI children lacked the modular organization of the mature speech-processing network and demonstrated a higher degree of immaturity in temporo-parietal than temporo-frontal connections. The speech-processing network appeared to form rapidly with early CI experiences, with two-thirds of the developing connections following nonlinear trajectories reflecting possibly more than one synaptogenesis-pruning cycle. A few key features of the mature speech-processing network emerged within the first year of CI hearing, including left-hemispheric advantage, differentiation of the dorsal and ventral processing streams, and functional state (speech listening vs. resting) specific patterns of connectivity development. The developmental changes were predictable of future auditory and verbal communication skills of the CI children, with prominent contribution from temporo-parietal connections in the dorsal stream, suggesting a mediating role of speech-processing network formation with early hearing experiences in speech acquisition.

The dark side of well-connected directors: Evidence from private firm acquisitions

We adopt a difference-in-difference approach to investigate the relationship between the board network and the acquirer's cumulative abnormal returns (CAR) by examining the influence of the directors' sudden death or retirement. We find that firms experiencing the departure of well-connected directors tend to obtain higher CAR when acquiring private targets. This suggests that well-connected directors may reduce the values of mergers and acquisitions (M&A). However, acquirers with greater external monitoring can reduce this negative effect. We also find that these directors with prior acquisition experience are more likely to secure board positions. In summary, these results support the agency problem that well-connected directors tend to make more M&A deals for their private benefits.

Transformative Impacts of Technological Advancements in English Language Teaching: A Comprehensive Analysis within the TESOL Context in Duhok City, Iraq

This comprehensive research was conducted in Duhok City, Iraq, encompassing both university and high school levels in the academic year 2022-2023. The primary objective was to thoroughly examine the influence of technology on English language teaching and learning. Employing a historical analysis, this study traced the evolution of technology within the realm of English language education while meticulously scrutinizing its advantages and potential challenges. Participants encompassed a diverse group, comprising university students and teachers, as well as high school teachers and students. Through rigorous investigation, the research sought to shed light on effective strategies for integrating technology into TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) classrooms, with the overarching aim of enhancing language proficiency and communication skills. The study underscored the critical significance of striking a harmonious balance between technology and traditional teaching methods. This thoughtful integration was found to hold the potential for positively transforming students' language acquisition experiences. By strategically incorporating multimedia resources and cutting-edge tools, this research succeeded in enriching the landscape of English language learning. The result was a more engaging, dynamic, and immersive educational environment. While the abstract outlines the study's participants and the period during which it was conducted, it does not specify the exact tools or methods used for data collection and analysis. Furthermore, the abstract does not provide specific findings or outcomes of the research, focusing instead on the broader implications and significance of the study for educators, policymakers, and stakeholders involved in language education in Duhok City, Iraq, and beyond.

Transformative Impacts of Technological Advancements in English Language Teaching: A Comprehensive Analysis within the TESOL Context in Duhok City, Iraq

This comprehensive research was conducted in Duhok City, Iraq, encompassing both university and high school levels in the academic year 2022-2023. The primary objective was to thoroughly examine the influence of technology on English language teaching and learning. Employing a historical analysis, this study traced the evolution of technology within the realm of English language education while meticulously scrutinizing its advantages and potential challenges. Participants encompassed a diverse group, comprising university students and teachers, as well as high school teachers and students. Through rigorous investigation, the research sought to shed light on effective strategies for integrating technology into TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) classrooms, with the overarching aim of enhancing language proficiency and communication skills. The study underscored the critical significance of striking a harmonious balance between technology and traditional teaching methods. This thoughtful integration was found to hold the potential for positively transforming students' language acquisition experiences. By strategically incorporating multimedia resources and cutting-edge tools, this research succeeded in enriching the landscape of English language learning. The result was a more engaging, dynamic, and immersive educational environment. While the abstract outlines the study's participants and the period during which it was conducted, it does not specify the exact tools or methods used for data collection and analysis. Furthermore, the abstract does not provide specific findings or outcomes of the research, focusing instead on the broader implications and significance of the study for educators, policymakers, and stakeholders involved in language education in Duhok City, Iraq, and beyond.

CEO power and risk taking: evidence from European banks mergers and acquisitions

PurposeThis study investigates the relationship between CEO power and the risk profile (RP) of acquiring banks through mergers and acquisitions (M&A) transactions.Design/methodology/approachThe analysis is based on 214 transactions between 2010 and 2022 involving European Union-based acquirers. To assess the impact of M&A on the acquiring bank’s RP, we compare changes in the acquirer’s RP to control banks. We use linear regression with two-stage least squares instrumental variables (2SLS-IV) to examine the effect of CEO power on changes in merger-related risk.FindingsThe findings suggest that CEO power reduces the RP of the acquiring bank. Specifically, CEOs who hold both the CEO and board chair positions tend to take fewer risks. Additionally, CEOs with high ownership, CEO pay and extensive experience (measured by tenure and acquisition experience) decrease the RP. However, prestige power is positively correlated with an increase in RPs.Practical implicationsThis research examines CEO influence on bank risk post-mergers, providing insights into governance, risk and strategic choices. The findings can guide banks in CEO selection and governance to mitigate M&A risks, improving risk management and decision-making in the financial sector.Originality/valueThis study is the first empirical investigation introducing diverse executive power metrics to analyze the link between executive power and risk-taking in the European banking sector, with a specific emphasis on the impact on M&A as critical investment choices.

Acquisition integration capabilities and organizational design

Research has yet to explain how firms with acquisition experience can improve their success with acquisitions. With a multi-national sample, we study how acquisition experience can lead to integration capabilities that impact acquisition outcomes. We argue that different types of knowledge (tacit or explicit) and organizational designs (more centralized vs. less centralized) influence the development of integration capabilities. We demonstrate that tacit and explicit knowledge provide multiple paths to acquisition success for acquiring firms, and this can explain conflicting findings in existing research. More specifically, less centralized organizational designs lower the effectiveness of tacit knowledge in developing an integration capability, but centralization is effective for explicit knowledge. Additional implications for management research and practice are provided.

Diverse Book Finders: Diversifying a Children’s Picture Book Collection by Integrating Acquisitions Into a Classroom Experience

Two recent trends in collection development include finding new ways to bring patron voices into collection development and developing strategies for increasing the diversity and representation within collections. Indiana University Southeast (IU-Southeast) Library recently developed a project that combined these two strategic directions by embedding an acquisition experience that used students enrolled in a sophomore block elementary education course to use the Diverse Book Finder (DBF) to select diverse picture books for the IU-Southeast collection. While diversification strategies and projects around children’s picture book collections in academic libraries are nothing new, IU-Southeast’sproject is unique in its incorporating of students to participate in the selection and diversification of a collection, rather than relying on more traditional strategies driven by librarian or faculty selection. This case study focuses on the design of the project, the integration and embedding of the acquisition project into the education course, how the DBF and its collection were leveraged to enhance the learning experience, and the effect this experience had on the diversity of the IU-Southeast Library collection and on the faculty, librarians, and students that were involved.

Acquisition experience over performance: Directorship prestige following M&As

Corporate governance research documents that outside directors are not penalised in the director labour market for engaging in value-destroying acquisitions (M&A) as they obtain additional directorships regardless of M&A performance. This result is puzzling as it suggests that the director labour market does not provide sufficient ex post settling-up incentives for outside directors to mitigate agency concerns in the M&A context. We further investigate this issue by examining the prestige of directorships received by independent directors after engaging in an M&A. Using US data, we find that acquiring firm directors are awarded more prestigious directorships, regardless of whether the acquisition resulted in value destruction or value creation. Overall, our findings reinforce the notion that, in the director labour market, acquisition experience holds more value than acquisition ability.

A pilot initiative to enhance quality improvement teaching with simulation.

Quality Improvement and Patient Safety (QIPS) is a recognised competency across residency programmes. Although a variety of teaching modalities exist, many do not represent the multifaceted clinical environment that trainees work in. Residents have reported challenges in linking QIPS classroom-based learning with their clinical duties. High-fidelity simulation has been used to bridge this gap within clinical skills teaching and therefore has potential to address this issue in QIPS learning. We developed and piloted four high-fidelity simulation scenarios with 15 surgical residents (Orthopaedics, General Surgery, Gynaecology and Neurosurgery). Each scenario contained elements of both latent and active safety errors. Residents were provided with a short pre-reading from an open-access resource on basic QIPS methodology and underwent a debriefing by a trained QIPS faculty. Residents were then tasked to apply their learning to their scenario to develop a QIPS-focused solution. Objective knowledge acquisition was assessed with the Quality Improvement Knowledge Assessment Tool-Revised (QIKAT-R) in conjunction with a survey based upon the Kirkpatrick Model of Learning. Overall, residents agreed that the simulation was helpful in learning QIPS methodology and agreed that they could perform fundamental QIPS tasks. The average QIKAT-R score demonstrated a trend towards improvement. High-fidelity simulation is a potential means to provide residents with hands-on experience in QIPS knowledge acquisition and application. Future directions should aim to compare the efficacy of simulation with other teaching modalities and evaluate the long-term impact of QIPS teaching on resident behaviours and motivation to take part in QIPS initiatives.

The Role of Language Teaching in Promoting Educational Quality in Early Childhood Education

Background and purpose: China is among the countries putting great emphasis on strengthening early education programs to ensure a solid learning foundation for children. The present study is based on a qualitative research design to examine the role of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teaching in promoting educational quality in the context of early childhood education in China. It focuses on investigating the effectiveness of EFL teaching in enhancing the educational quality of early childhood education in the education system of China. Method: The semi-structured interviews were conducted to assess the parents’ perception regarding the impact of EFL programs on the quality of education being offered in early childhood centres in China. The sample for the survey was selected from the parents of children enrolled in early childhood education centres in China offering EFL teaching as a part of their curricula. The data collection focused on the student’s cognitive development and overall quality of education. Findings: Most of the participants emphasized the significant impact of early EFL education on their children’s cognitive skills. They regarded EFL education as a robust tool to lay a strong foundation for future academic achievements and cross-cultural understanding of their children. Conclusion and Implications: Thus, parents in China regard early EFL education as crucial for the cognitive development and educational foundation of their children. The present study offers significant pedagogical implications regarding the inclusion of EFL instructions in enhancing the early language acquisition experience of children.

A different view on acquisition paradox: Empirical examination of international acquisitions from competitiveness perspective

Acquisitions are complex strategic decisions and there is not a consensus about the outcomes of them. The complexity and the implications increase with international acquisitions (IA). We examine international acquisitions from a different perspective to see how they affect competitiveness of acquires using a sample of international acquisitions by U.S. firms applying a control sample methodology. Competitiveness outcomes of IAs vary based on the dimension used. They result with lower financial performance, profitability and productivity whereas have a positive effect on market power and innovation of acquirers. Negative performance is consistent with the general belief about agency theory, but our findings also provide support for the resource-based view of enhanced competitiveness. Regarding the success factors, we show that capabilities of acquirers matter more than their resources in explaining post-acquisition competitiveness of acquirers. Acquirers with greater acquisition experience benefit a lot more from IAs compared to firms without acquisition experience. We also show that relatedness of acquirer and target is crucial for creating synergies and efficiencies in terms of enhanced productivity.

Educational Learning-Based Sign Language System Using Machine Learning

This study proposes an innovative approach to multicultural education by integrating Indian Sign Language (ISL) and American Sign Language (ASL) through Machine Learning (ML) techniques. By collecting and preprocessing high-quality video data of ISL and ASL, we aim to develop ML models capable of recognizing and generating signs in both languages. Through bidirectional transfer learning and cross-language representation learning, we seek to enhance the learning experience and address common challenges in sign language acquisition. Additionally, personalized learning environments and culturally sensitive design, informed by collaboration with Deaf communities in India and America, ensure inclusivity and accuracy. Evaluation metrics and ethical considerations are integrated into the development process to promote responsible implementation and continuous improvement. Ultimately, this project aims to lay the groundwork for advancing multilingual sign language education globally. By employing advanced ML techniques, this study aims to bridge the gap between Indian Sign Language (ISL) and American Sign Language (ASL) education, fostering inclusivity and accessibility in learning environments. Through meticulous data collection, preprocessing, and collaborative development processes, our approach emphasizes accuracy, cultural sensitivity, and personalized learning experiences. By engaging with Deaf communities in both India and America, we ensure the authenticity and relevance of our platform. Evaluation metrics and ethical considerations are prioritized to uphold privacy, consent, and fairness principles. By establishing a robust foundation for multilingual sign language education, this project contributes to broader discussions on leveraging ML for enhancing accessibility and inclusivity in education systems worldwide. Keywords- Hand Gesture, Sign language Recognition, OpenCV, Media-pipe, tensorflow.

The Effect of Cross-border Acquisition Experience on Subsequent Cross-border Acquisitions: A Test of the S-shape Hypothesis

The literature generally supports the linear effect of cross-border acquisition (CBA) experience on subsequent CBA behaviour. We draw from the extended organisational learning perspective to propose an S-shaped relationship between CBA experience and subsequent CBAs. We hypothesise that the number of CBAs decreases at a low level of CBA experience, increases at a moderate level of CBA experience, and decreases again at a high level of CBA experience. Based on a sample of 1675 observations from 205 Indian MNEs, we find support for our hypothesis. Our findings contribute to the CBA literature, specifically in the context of emerging economy multinational enterprises.

Triple bottom line, environmental, social and governance and net zero in commercial real estate

Climate and sustainability are at the forefront of dialogue within corporate real estate (CRE) organisations. Nearly 40 per cent of global carbon dioxide emissions come from the real estate sector. Of these emissions, approximately 70 per cent are produced by building operations, while the remaining 30 per cent comes from construction.1 A common language and aligned path is essential in making progress if we, as an industry, are to meet the goals we are setting. Sustainability, when referring to the triple bottom line, is a concept that refers to the environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance of an organisation and measures three areas of impact: people, planet, profit. This paper explores how sustainability takes into account the needs of an organisation’s stakeholders (including the community, general public and its employees) along with its own interests. This results in stronger relationships with these groups. The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) is a federal government entity with a mission to deliver the best customer experience and value in real estate, acquisition and technology services to the government and the American people. One of GSA’s strategic goals is to provide financially and environmentally sustainable, accessible and responsive real estate solutions that enable a productive federal workforce. This paper provides highlights of how GSA is driven by three guiding principles: buy clean, build clean; net zero operations by 2045; and design for people, design for impact. The challenge of finding appropriate solutions to meet the demands of today are presented in actionable ways in examples from GSA as it continues to partner with industry, other organisations and communities to develop innovative solutions that support customer missions, enable community development and protect the environment, while providing effective stewardship of taxpayer dollars.

Novel Virtual Reality App for Training Patients on MRI-guided Radiation Therapy

PurposePatients receiving respiratory gated magnetic resonance imaging-guided radiation therapy (MRIgRT) for abdominal targets must hold their breath for ≥25 seconds at a time. Virtual reality (VR) has shown promise for improving patient education and experience for diagnostic MRI scan acquisition. We aimed to develop and pilot-test the first VR app to educate, train, and reduce anxiety and discomfort in patients preparing to receive MRIgRT. Methods and MaterialsA multidisciplinary team iteratively developed a new VR app with patient input. The app begins with minigames to help orient patients to using the VR device and to train patients on breath-holding. Next, app users are introduced to the MRI linear accelerator vault and practice breath-holding during MRIgRT. In this quality improvement project, clinic personnel and MRIgRT-eligible patients with pancreatic cancer tested the VR app for feasibility, acceptability, and potential efficacy for training patients on using breath-holding during MRIgRT. ResultsThe new VR app experience was tested by 19 patients and 67 clinic personnel. The experience was completed on average in 18.6 minutes (SD = 5.4) by patients and in 14.9 (SD = 3.5) minutes by clinic personnel. Patients reported the app was “extremely helpful” (58%) or “very helpful” (32%) for learning breath-holding used in MRIgRT and “extremely helpful” (28%) or “very helpful (50%) for reducing anxiety. Patients and clinic personnel also provided qualitative feedback on improving future versions of the VR app. ConclusionThe VR app was feasible and acceptable for training patients on breath-holding for MRIgRT. Patients eligible for MRIgRT for pancreatic cancer and clinic personnel reported on future improvements to the app to enhance its usability and efficacy.

STUDENTS’ DIGITAL VOCABULARY LEARNING: EXPERIENCES, BARRIERS, AND ADAPTIVE STRATEGIES EXPLORATION

This study aims to explore the experiences of students as they navigate individualized obstacles in the learning of digital vocabulary. The research employs a research methodology of a qualitative research, specifically employing a design centered around narrative inquiry, with the purpose of examining the subject matter. Specifically, the research examines the barriers faced by students in their pursuit of proficient acquisition of vocabulary through digital means, with a focus on the barriers that hinder optimal comprehension and retention. The findings of the research illuminate that students encounter both internal and external obstacles when learning vocabulary through the use of digital tools, as revealed by research. In addition, the findings reveal that students strategically combine different resources in order to enhance their vocabulary acquisition experience. This research offers practical insights to refine and enhance methods of vocabulary instruction in the digital age. A more efficient, inclusive, and captivating digital vocabulary learning environment for students can be created by educators, curriculum designers, and technology makers with an understanding of these issues and adaptable solutions. It is crucial for educators and developers to prioritize the inclusion of interactive elements in their digital vocabulary tools to address the identified need for heightened engagement and cognitive involvement in the vocabulary acquisition process.

TRANSFORMATION OF RECRUITMENT PROCESS THROUGH IMPLEMENTATION OF AI SOLUTIONS

This article reviews how the recruitment process across various industries has been transformed due to recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) solutions. A literature review summarizes key findings on AI-enabled improvements in sourcing, screening, assessment, interviewing, and onboarding of candidates. Both recruitment analytics using big data and conversational AI chatbots are discussed as drivers reshaping traditional human resource workflows. Challenges around AI bias, privacy, and job automation fears are also analyzed. Overall, AI implementation led to enhanced efficiency, quality, and experience in talent acquisition. However, maintaining a human touch remains vital, suggesting an optimal balance between AI and human recruiters.

Enhancing classroom attention during Ramadan: The efficacy of instructional videos in sports science education

Millions of Muslim university students observe Ramadan annually, yet little research explores their classroom experiences amid the distinctive circumstances of this holy month. Addressing this research gap, this study investigates the association between Ramadan observance and classroom attention among sports science students. Additionally, the effectiveness of instructional videos as an intervention was examined. In a crossover design, thirty-six fasting students received exposure to three regular theoretical tennis lessons before Ramadan, three regular lessons during Ramadan, and three lessons incorporating instructional videos during Ramadan. A counterbalancing procedure was implemented to minimize confounders, including the order of exposure, the time of day, and the lesson content. Classroom attention was assessed through self-reporting using digital clickers throughout 50-min lessons. The results revealed a significant increase in attention lapses during regular Ramadan lessons (non-Ramadan: 3.69 ± 2.08 lapses vs. Ramadan: 6.89 ± 2.55 lapses; p < 0.001). Surprisingly, attention lapses decreased significantly (p < 0.001), even compared to non-Ramadan conditions (p < 0.01), when instructional videos were used (2.42 ± 1.57 lapses). The effectiveness of instructional videos in improving classroom attention under Ramadan observance is highlighted in this study. While heightened attention levels are generally acknowledged as indicators of a more efficient knowledge acquisition experience, this research does not explicitly posit instructional videos as effective content-delivery tools under Ramadan conditions. However, it lays the groundwork for such possibilities, which could be investigated in future research.

ECMR 4-01 - Beat Sensor Gating in Action - Application and Experience in Adult Clinical CMR Acquisition

ECMR 4-01 - Beat Sensor Gating in Action - Application and Experience in Adult Clinical CMR Acquisition

"BARBED-WIRE BOUNDARIES": HIDDEN CURRICULUM, FIRST-GENERATION AND LOW-INCOME ENGINEERING STUDENTS, AND INTERNSHIP ACQUISITION

Engineering industry internships provide significant benefits for undergraduate engineering students' careers. First-generation and low-income students (FGLI) are one group of marginalized students who access internships at lower rates compared to their non-FGLI peers; however, the reasons for this gap have not yet been explored in the literature. In this article, we investigate the internship acquisition experiences of FGLI engineering undergraduate students at a mid-sized private university in the western United States. We conducted ten semi-structured interviews to capture FGLI engineering students' experiences encountering and navigating the process of obtaining an internship. Our findings highlight the ways in which much of the knowledges surrounding the internship search and recruitment process are implicit and how this implicit hidden curriculum and technocratic culture create structural barriers to internship access for FGLI engineering students. We present a structural critique of internship recruitment through the framework of hidden curriculum and propose that companies and engineering education institutions work together toward transparent modes of evaluation for internship recruitment.