Central District Research Articles

Communal Palaces in the Venetian Territorial State (15th-16th Centuries): The Case of Treviso

Beginning in the 15th century, the reconstruction of Venetian state communal palaces, which served as the institutional seats of the city councils and judiciaries, was often seen as an opportunity for civic magistrates, along at times with Venetian officers, to develop plans to renovate their cities. These projects often led to the enlargement of central districts and to the transformation of cities’ roads and squares. I look at communal palaces from across the Venetian territorial state, focusing on Treviso, which clearly elucidates how the modification of public buildings often led to a redefinition of central urban space. An array of mostly unpublished drawings proposing urban redevelopment projects that were not always realised are key to reconstructing the city’s history, demonstrating better than other documents how communal palaces have enhanced its fabric.

Moderating Effect of Teaching Etiquette on Intercultural Sensitivity and Work Fulfillment of Teachers in Maa District, Davao City

The current study was set to evaluate whether teaching etiquette significantly moderate the relationship between intercultural sensitivity and work fulfillment of teachers. In this study, the researcher selected the 200 public elementary school teachers in Maa District, Davao City as the respondents of the study. Stratified random sampling technique was utilized in the selection of the respondents. Non-experimental quantitative research design using descriptive-correlational method was employed. The data collected were subjected on the following statistical tools: Mean, Pearson Moment Product Correlation, and Hierarchical Regression Analysis. Descriptive analysis showed that teaching etiquette and work fulfillment were described as extensive, while, intercultural sensitivity of teachers was rated as moderately extensive. Further, correlation analysis demonstrated that there is significant relationship among intercultural sensitivity, work fulfillment, and teaching etiquette of teachers in Davao Central District, Davao City. Evidently, hierarchical regression analysis proved that professional etiquette significantly moderates the interaction between intercultural sensitivity and work fulfillment of teachers in Maa District, Davao City. In other words, teaching etiquette is a significant moderator on the intercultural sensitivity and work fulfillment of teachers since it strengthens its relationship. The study, therefore, conducted for further utilization of findings through publication in reputable research journal.

Spatial Distribution of Public Lower Secondary School and its Impact on Students’ Enrolment in Ogun Central Senatorial District Ogun State, Nigeria

Given the quest for universal basic education, the large enrolments in the Nigerian secondary educational institutions has resulted in the problem of over-crowded classes, shortage of teachers and shortages of classroom, which portend enormous challenges to the development of the educational sector in Ogun state. Using Ogun Central as a case study, the study identified the spatial pattern of the schools; analyzing students’ enrolment trends in the area, and identifying the factors associated with the observed pattern. Spatial analysis tool in ArcGIS was used to analyze both the spatial accessibility index and the students’ annual enrolment trend of the lower secondary school in the area. The result of the nearest neighbor analysis for the spatial pattern of lower secondary schools in the study revealed a random pattern. This pattern implies that the lower secondary schools are located far from one another, which indicates, that for students to attend the schools, most of them need to cover long distances. The spatial distribution of junior secondary school is influenced by socioeconomic status, environmental factors, demographic characteristics, transportation infrastructure, and geographic accessibility, which are key determinants of educational equity. Linear regression analysis was employed to identify trends and predict future enrollments of students. Further, the results of the trend analysis of enrolments of students in the zone from 2020 – 2023 reveal a negative trend. This implies a decrease in students’ enrolment as the year increases. The four years (2020 – 2023) annual trend of enrolments in the zone is represented by the negative trend y = -3180.3x + 99400. This result suggests that the students’ enrolments in the zone would gradually keep decreasing as time goes on if quick remedial actions are not taken. However, factors such as shortage of teachers, shortage of classrooms, COVID-19, insufficient infrastructural facilities and fuel subsidy removal could be responsible for the negative enrolment trend

HPB SO68 - Evaluating the Outcome of Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Against Key Performance Indicator (KPI) of the British Benign Upper GI Surgical Society (BBUGSS)

Abstract Background Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) presents inherent challenges and potential for significant complications, influenced by both patient factors and surgical expertise. Recognizing this variability, the British Benign Upper GI Surgical Society (BBUGSS) has established Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) aimed at enhancing LC outcomes. This study conducts an audit of LC outcomes in a single centre district general hospital (DGH) in accordance with BBUGSS KPIs and thus aims to determine if quality LC by modern standards is achievable in a DGH. Method The present retrospective observational study examined all adult LC conducted between August 2022 and June 2024 by two specialized biliary surgeons at a single surgical unit within a DGH, which also serves as a referral center of biliary cases from affiliated hospitals. The analysis encompassed preoperative assessments, intraoperative observations, and postoperative outcomes, with a focus on aligning these findings against the benchmarks established by the BBUGSS KPIs. Results 141 patients were included; median age was 54 years (IQR 41-64) and 59.6% were female. 37.6% were emergency cases, 44.2% were for acute cholecystitis, 22.7% for gallstone pancreatitis and 63.1% underwent intra-operative cholangiogram. KPIsBBUGSS StandardOur resultDay case for elective cases50%42%Readmission (within 30 days)<10%4.3%Laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis (within 7 days)>35%97%Laparoscopic cholecystectomy for gallstone pancreatitis (within 2 weeks)>95%100%Conversion to open<5%0.7%Morbidity<10%1.4%Bile leak after elective surgery<1.5%0%Retained bile duct stones<2.5%0%Bile duct injury<0.3%0%Mortality<0.1%0% Conclusion This study shows that with the exception of day-case rate in elective LC, all KPIs were satisfactorily achieved, indicating that high quality LC is achievable within a DGH. The majority of readmissions within 30 days were related to inadequate postoperative analgesia. We have since enhanced pain management pathways. It is hoped that this will also improve same day discharge for elective cases to achieve BBGUGS standard. We are committed to conducting annual audits to monitor and optimize surgical outcomes and would encourage other centers to consider adopting the same approach.

Designing A Place Value Chart to Help Pupils In Basic Three Subtract Three-Digit Numbers

The action research conducted was about designing a place value chart to help pupils in Basic three, subtract three-digit numbers. The project was undertaken in the Nsuta R/C Primary School in the Sekyere Central District in the Ashanti Region. The targeted population for the study was Nsuta R/C Primary Three pupils. The population size was 33 pupils, made up of 20 boys and 13 girls. A sample size of 20 pupils was selected for the study, comprising 9 boys and 11 girls. Purposive sampling procedure was considered in selecting the pupils in order to give pupil who needed help the opportunity to participate in the action research. Instruments used in the collection of data included observation, and test. Related literature review on the research was conducted. Pre- Intervention tests and a post-intervention test were administered. The post-Intervention test results showed tremendous improvement in pupils’ performance. According to the results of the study, primary schools should be encouraged to use materials like place value charts and sticks, especially in the Early Grade levels, to help pupils learn how to solve subtraction problems involving three-digit numbers.

Quantitative Research on Gifted/Talented Students’ Critical Thinking Skills

This study aims to determine the level of critical thinking skills among gifted students and investigate whether there is a relationship between their levels of critical thinking and their gender, age, grade level, pre-kindergarten education and parents' educational backgrounds. The study sample of the research consists of 203 students who are enrolled in the Science and Art Center in the central district of Kütahya province, Turkey during the 2021-2022 academic year. As per the findings, gifted female students have higher mean scores in the Critical Thinking Dispositions Scale compared to gifted male students. Also, this study examined the differences in critical thinking levels between gifted students who received pre-kindergarten education and those who did not receive pre-kindergarten education. The results indicate that these differences are statistically insignificant. As another remarkable finding, gifted students whose mothers have a high school or Master’s and above education level have significantly higher levels of critical thinking compared to gifted students whose mothers have a primary school or middle school education level.

Coal structure evaluation and morphological properties that affect the coal usage in industries

AbstractThe contemporary research article is central to understanding coal structure evaluation and the morphological development impacting its utilization in different applications. Through Mineral Liberation Analysis (MLA) designs high content phyllosilicates minerals and swelling clay minerals were rationalized to provides a novel insight into enhanced coal beneficiation and the benefits of coal by-product re-utilization progressions that encourage safer environments and economic sustainability. This work commences with collection of five (5) different coal samples from the central district region in Botswana, sample characterization deploying Thermogravimetric coal analysis (TGA), x-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the Hardgrove Grindability Index (HGI) test that was directed to quantification of the coal hardness and fracture toughness during milling. The cumulative objective was to understand the correlation that exists between the natural composition of the coal sample and their adaptation and application in various carbonaceous products. A solid connection was thus identified in the sulfur and phosphorus weight percentage inclusions in all the coal materials hence higher significance in sphalerite mineral phases (Zn, Fe) S critically increased the fracture toughness and hardness properties. Moreover, mineral amalgams intrinsic to the coal maceral such as aluminum oxides (Al2O3), silicate (SiO2), calcites (CaO), Iron oxide (Fe2O3), potassium feldspars (K − AlSi3O8), albite (Na − AlSi3O8), and anorthite (Ca − Al2Si2O8) compounds in alkali feldspars were detected in larger quantities. The coal industry has attracted much industrial attention to manufacturing foundations producing cement, ceramic tiles, paving bricks, and material synthesis and will continue to supply other economic sectors in the conceivable future. Graphical Abstract

Spatial-Temporal Distribution of 12-Year Periodontal Disease Prevalence in a Large Population Using Geographical Information Systems: A Longitudinal Study.

Periodontal diseases, commonly linked to dental biofilm and affecting adults, were studied using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Kernel Analyses with epidemiological data. This paper presents a hybrid method for use in epidemiological studies by evaluating the spatiotemporal distribution of disease prevalence. This study analy ed 47,757 patients from the Department of Periodontology out of 662,351 visitors to University Faculty of Dentistry (2012 to July 2023). The central districts of Kayseri in Turkey were selected as the study areas. Periodontitis prevalence was assessed through radiographic evidence and clinical examination. Point-based location data, including gender, age, and disease type, matched household data, creating building-based spatial data. Kernel Density (KD) and Average Nearest Neighbor (ANN) analyses examined patient concentration and disease types in specific regions. Accordingly, standard deviation ellipses were prepared by year to assess the spatial changes in the regions where patients resided. The study found higher periodontitis prevalence in males, increasing with age, while gingivitis decreased. After 2017, periodontitis prevalence notably declined. Location-based data exhibited clustering in patient distribution. KD maps showed similar patient distributions over the years, with more applications from areas closer to the Faculty of Dentistry. The spatial distribution of the patients applying has remained consistent over the last 5 years. Through GIS, KD maps reveal the spatial-temporal distribution of periodontitis patients. This aids in identifying high-prevalence regions and guiding strategic healthcare facility placement. Implementing preventive programs in high-demand areas, particularly in family health centers (local health facilities), can reduce community-wide periodontal disease prevalence.

The Effect of Virtual Reality on Pain, Anxiety, Physiological Parameters, and Postspinal Headache in Patients Undergoing Spinal Anesthesia: A Randomized Controlled Trial

PurposeThe purpose of this research was to determine the effect of virtual reality (VR) on pain, anxiety, physiological parameters, and postspinal headache in patients undergoing spinal anesthesia. DesignThis was a randomized controlled experimental trial. MethodsThe research was conducted in the operating room unit of the state hospital in Hakkari-Şemdinli District Center between May 2021 and June 2022. Data were collected using the Descriptive Information Form, visual analog scale (VAS), verbal category scale (VCS), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and the Application Registration Form to record preoperative and postoperative oxygen saturation and heart rate. FindingsWhen the groups’ VAS and VCS mean scores were compared for head and incision site pain, the mean scores of headache and incision site pain in both groups were found to be significantly lower in the experimental group patients (P < .001). In addition, the difference between the groups in headache VAS and VCS mean scores at all hours was statistically significant; incision site pain VAS and VCS mean scores were significantly lower between the groups at all hours, except the 1st and 2nd hours (P < .001). While there was no significant difference in the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (SAS) pretest mean scores between the groups (P > .05), the SAS post-test mean scores of the experimental group were significantly lower (P < .05). The mean heart rate in the intraoperative and postoperative periods and the mean saturation in the postoperative period differed significantly between the groups (P < .05). The difference between the blood pressure averages before, during, and after the operation was not statistically significant in both groups (P > .05). While nausea and vomiting was significant in the experimental group only at the 2nd hour (P < .05), it was not statistically significant at the other hours (P > .05). ConclusionsVR was found to effectively reduce pain, anxiety, postspinal headache, and increase the oxygen saturation level in the postoperative period in patients who underwent spinal anesthesia. Hence, VR is an effective treatment for patients who have undergone surgery under spinal anesthesia.

Assessing the Effectiveness of Teaching Methods Used to Teach Indigenous Languages Reading to Grade One Learners in Bulawayo Central District in Zimbabwe

This study assessed effectiveness of teaching methods for teaching indigenous languages reading to grade one learners, phonic method, syllabic approach and whole word method. The syllabic approach was found to be the most effective method to teach indigenous languages reading to grade one learners. The study reveals that methods used to teach indigenous language reading to grade one learners in Bulawayo central district are ineffective, and are leading to failure. To solve the problem, the researcher designed a teaching model, and termed it, Triple S model, that combines a syllabic approach, spellings, and sentences to teach indigenous languages reading. The study reveals the effectiveness of Triple S (SSS), showing that learners taught using this method mastered indigenous language reading skills faster. The study recommends Triple S model to be the suitable method for teaching indigenous languages to grade one learners. The research also urges the training of specialist teachers in areas where there are shortages of teachers who can speak indigenous language of the province. By implementing these recommendations, the study aims to improve the teaching of indigenous languages to grade one learners. The findings and recommendations provide important information to all stake- holders.Qualitative research method was used, data was generated through interviews, document analysis and lesson observations.

The Mitigating Effect of Green Space's Spatial and Temporal Patterns on the Urban Heat Island in the Context of Urban Densification: A Case Study of Xi'an

Growing evidence highlights a strong link between urban densification and urban heat island (UHI) effects. However, there is a lack of research on time-based analyses of urban green space spatial patterns using urban densification indices to mitigate UHI effects. Addressing this gap, this study focuses on the central district of Xi'an, utilizing urban density data, MODIS LST products, and Landsat series imagery. The Coordination Coupling Degree Model (CCDM) is applied to longitudinally assess the mitigating effects of urban green space spatial patterns on UHI under different scales of spatial densification. The CCDM results show a significant overall improvement in the coordination coupling degree between green space spatial indices and LST in Xi'an's central district from 2013 to 2023. However, variations across administrative districts suggest that regional planning policies have differentially influenced green space patterns and UHI effects over time. Furthermore, a global negative correlation between the urban densification index and changes in the coordination coupling degree indicates that continued urbanization in Xi'an's central district could exacerbate the urban thermal environment. This study provides valuable insights into green space planning and UHI mitigation strategies in the context of urban densification.

Using social-network analysis to map institutional actors’ links with vulnerable municipalities under climate change in Honduras’ dry corridor. Pathways towards improved cooperation and territorial interventions

The Honduras dry corridor, located in Central America’s Pacific region, has high natural climate variability. Nearly half of the Honduran population depends on socio-economic activities linked to agriculture, making climate-change adaptation crucial for the agricultural sector to ensure food and nutrition security. This research analyzes how institutional structures function and interact as a network to investigate the spatial coherence and relevance of public- and private-sector interventions related to agriculture, climate change, and food security in 153 municipalities of Honduras’ dry corridor. We employed a Social Network Analysis (SNA) approach to examine these interactions over the territories, revealing two network patterns: the first favors a single municipality, observed only in the Central District where Honduras’ capital is located; the second is an egocentric network, favoring a single institution, observed in four cases, particularly in municipalities bordering with El Salvador and Guatemala. The SNA results reveal a spatial misalignment, where only 9% of interventions linked to climate-change adaptation are conducted in the highly vulnerable, outlying zones located farthest from the capital. The study highlights the need for improved coordination and strategic prioritization of interventions in the most vulnerable municipalities within the Honduras dry corridor, specifically improvement in collaborative actions, use of resources, and setting strategic priorities in regions where future demand will require progressively mobilizing institutional capabilities. By identifying the current gaps and misalignments in institutional actions, this research provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders to enhance collaborative efforts to ensure that climate-change adaptation measures effectively target the most vulnerable areas.

Qualitative study of drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene access: perspectives from the Central Gonja District, Ghana, and Mtubatuba Municipality, South Africa

Qualitative study of drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene access: perspectives from the Central Gonja District, Ghana, and Mtubatuba Municipality, South Africa

EFFECT OF FUEL SUBSIDY REMOVAL ON THE NIGERIAN ECONOMY: A STUDY OF ADAMAWA CENTRAL SENATORIAL DISTRICT

The paper examined the effect of fuel subsidy removal on the Nigerian Economy: A study of Adamawa Central Senatorial District. The economic development of a society is vital for the welfare, and satisfaction of the needs of members of the society. Since Nigeria’s independence in 1960 to the current political dispensation, several efforts were made to accelerate economic development. However, in spite of several policies initiated and implemented in Nigeria, the country appears to be at the economic crossroad and faces a dilemma of economic development. Fuel subsidy is one of such policies initiated and implemented in Nigeria. The federal government operated fuel subsidy with the aim of making petroleum products available to cushion the effect of actual market prices of the product on the general populace for several decades. Recently, the removal of fuel subsidy has generated mixed reactions in the political process. The study utilized primary and secondary sources of data generation. Data were obtained from published and unpublished materials like books, magazines, journals, newspapers etc. The study revealed that the removal of the fuel subsidy has been met with considerable skepticism and concern among the public because government has not adequately addressed the implications of this policy change, particularly regarding transparency, social equity, and its economic benefits. The study therefore recommends the need to conduct comprehensive impact assessments before implementing policy changes, like subsidy removal, is essential. These assessments should involve stakeholder consultations, particularly with communities that would be directly affected. Understanding the potential socio-economic implications of such changes can help the government make informed decisions and develop strategies that mitigate negative impacts on vulnerable populations.

Parenting styles as predictors to female students’ sexual promiscuity in tertiary institution in delta state

This study investigated the relationship between parenting styles and female students’ sexual promiscuity in tertiary institutions in Delta State. The study was led by two research questions and two hypotheses. The study used an ex-post facto research design with a correlational technique. The population comprised all female students of tertiary institutions in Delta Central Senatorial District with a total sample of 1,566 students. Questionnaire was used as instrument of data collection. The questionnaire was validated by experts’ judgement and factor analysis, with a sound psychometric property indicating that the instrument is valid and reliable. The data obtained were analysed with the aid of regression statistics at 0.05 level of significance. The result showed a significant relationship between parenting styles and sexual promiscuity and that the relationship can be moderated by socio-economic status of parents. The study recommended amongst others that Parents should improve on their relationship with their adolescents and choose the right parenting style that will help the adolescents to abstain from risky sexual behaviour.

The Impact of Climatic Characteristics on Increasing Soil Salinity in Manathira District Center

The climate plays a crucial role in shaping soil characteristics. High temperatures during summer can lead to increased evaporation of soil moisture, resulting in drier and more fragmented soils. This process often leads to higher salt concentrations, altering the soil's properties. In the study area, the soil is categorized into four types: river shoulder soil, river basin soil, riverine island soil, and desert gypsum soil. These soil types are significantly influenced by environmental factors, both natural and anthropogenic. Soil, being a fundamental component of the environment that supports life, is essential for the survival of humans, plants, and animals. In the Najaf Governorate, the soil is vital for agriculture, supporting the growth of various important crops, including vegetables and fruits. However, the soil's natural and human-induced changes have led to a noticeable deterioration in its quality, rendering much of the land unsuitable for agriculture due to high concentrations of saline elements. The natural factors impacting the soil in the study area include climate, soil properties, and water resources, while human activities have further exacerbated these effects. As a result, the soil, particularly in cultivated and uncultivated basins, has seen a rise in the levels of total dissolved salts, sodium, magnesium, calcium, potassium, sulfate, and chloride, often exceeding global standards. In contrast, the soils of river shoulders have remained within acceptable limits.

Management of Glucocorticoid-Induced Hyperglycemia in Cancer Patients: A Feasibility Study.

Glucocorticoids are commonly used in the management of patients with hematological and solid malignancies. However, their use may be associated with impaired glycemic metabolism and increased treatment-related morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to examine the feasibility and acceptability of a nurse-led model of care (MOC) for screening and managing glucocorticoid-induced hyperglycemia (GIH) in non-diabetic patients requiring high-dose glucocorticoid (HDG) therapies, as well as patients' and health professionals' experiences with the MOC. This study was a single-site feasibility study. Patients with hematological or oncological malignancies who were >18 years of age, receiving a chemotherapy regimen including HDGs, had no prior diagnosis of diabetes or prediabetes, and were not at the end of life were considered eligible for this study. Participants were recruited from a district hospital's Cancer Centre in Australia. All consenting participants were screened for diabetes and were provided with a blood glucose meter to monitor their blood glucose levels (BGLs) four times a day on the days of glucocorticoid therapy (GT) plus one extra day following GT, for the first four cycles of their treatment, to screen for the presence of GIH. Feasibility and acceptability were assessed using rates of consent, study completion, and staff and patient surveys. Forty-eight percent (35/74) of patients approached consented to participate in the study and had screening tests for preexisting diabetes. None were diagnosed with diabetes. Six out of 35 patients withdrew, and 10/29 patients did not complete the recommended BGL monitoring. Thirteen percent (4/29) of patients developed GIH. The most common reasons for non-participation and study withdrawal were related to the self-monitoring of BGLs. While clinical stakeholders found the MOC feasible and acceptable, the results of this study suggest that alternative methods for encouraging self-monitoring of BGL and monitoring the presence of GIH during high-dose chemotherapy need to be explored to address issues associated with adherence and sustainability.

Pertussis seroprevalence and related factors in 15-49 years old women in Mersin, Turkey

Abstract Background Pertussis is an acute, contagious respiratory disease with high mortality and morbidity, especially in early infancy. If the mother is immune to pertussis, infants too young to be vaccinated are protected against pertussis infection after birth by maternal immunity. This study aimed to investigate pertussis seroprevalence and associated factors in women aged 15-49 years. Methods The cross-sectional study was conducted on women aged 15-49 years in Mersin city between December 2023 and February 2024. A total of 352 women from family health centres in four central districts of Mersin were included in the study. In this study, anti PT-IgG levels in blood samples were investigated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay ELISA method. In the analysis of the data, descriptive statistics, chi-square analysis, and binary logistic regression analysis were used. The results were presented at a 95% confidence interval, at a significance level of p &amp;lt; 0.05. Results Anti-PT IgG seropositivity was detected in 150 (%42.6) of the women. In seven (2%) of women, the anti-PT IgG value was greater than 100, indicating an acute infection. Individuals who did not receive or could not recall having received school vaccinations were found to be 2.18 times more likely to be seropositive than those who had received vaccinations at school. Individuals residing in the same household with a healthcare professional were found to be 1.78 times more likely to be seropositive than those who did not. Conclusions Half of our region’s newborns lack protection from whooping cough. Maternal immunization with pertussis-containing vaccines is crucial. Many countries have safely used such vaccines for years. Replacing Td with Tdap in Turkey’s pregnancy immunization can better shield mothers and newborns from pertussis. Key messages • Maternal immunization is crucial for protecting newborns from pertussis, reducing mortality and morbidity. • Addressing vaccination disparities is vital to ensure community-wide protection against pertussis, saving lives.

Determination of land surface temperatures for some oak stands with Landsat 8 OLI satellite images: a case study from Turkey.

This study investigates the effect of forest cover, development stage and aspect factors on surface temperature (LST) in Demirköy and Düzce Forest Enterprises (FE) using Landsat 8 OLI satellite imagery from July 2021. In Demirköy FE, the highest LST value was recorded in the district center with 47.4 °C, in Düzce FE, the highest LST value was recorded in the provincial center with 44.6 °C, while the lowest value was 14.3°C in Demirköy FE and 13.02 °C in Düzce FE in densely forested areas. When the stands were evaluated, it was found that pure juvenile oak stands had the highest average LST value with 30.48 °C in Demirköy FE and 23.96 °C in Düzce FE, whereas lower LST values were observed in old oak stands due to more dense cover. In terms of aspect, higher temperatures were recorded in the southern and western aspects in both study areas. In Düzce FE, high LST values were also observed in juvenile stands in the northern direction, indicating the influence of local factors such as topography and solar radiation angle. The highest LST values were observed in open forest areas; 6-9 °C higher temperatures were found in Demirköy and 1-5 °C higher in Düzce compared to vegetated areas. Significant correlations were found between LST and vegetation indices, and the highest correlation was found between LST and Normalized Difference Structuring Index (NDBI) (R2, 0.54 in Demirköy and R2, 0.50 in Düzce). NDVI showed a negative relationship with LST (R2, 0.47 in Demirköy, R2, 0.43 in Düzce). These findings reveal the critical role of forest density, tree species, and forest management practices in regulating surface temperatures, especially in the context of urbanization and deforestation.

The Corrosive Effect of School Administrators as Toxic Leaders on Teacher Accountability

Purpose: To examine teachers' views on the corrosive effect of toxic leadership behaviours of school administrators on teacher accountability. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study group of this research, which uses phenomenology as a qualitative research design, was selected using maximum variation sampling method, which is a type of purposive sampling. This group consists of 20 teachers working in 10 public schools in the central district of Isparta. Data were collected from the teachers through a semi-structured interview form. The collected qualitative data were subjected to contextual analysis through MAXQDA software and visualised. The findings show that the majority of teachers reported that toxic leadership has a detrimental effect on teacher accountability. Findings: Toxic leaders, characterised by behaviours such as micromanagement, lack of empathy, and aggressive communication, were found to cause teacher demotivation, alienation, and professional burnout. In addition, toxic leaders erode teacher accountability by creating a negative and insecure organisational climate. Highlights: Toxic leadership behaviours of school administrators are a critical factor that significantly affects teacher accountability. The various dimensions of this impact are as follows: Decreased teacher motivation, psychological safety and job satisfaction, decreased performance and productivity, impeded professional development, stress and burnout. In addition to these, toxic leadership has a negative impact on school climate. A negative school climate leads to a decrease in teachers' willingness to cooperate and be accountable. This can also negatively impact student achievement because lack of co-operation and support among teachers reduces the quality of education. Therefore, it is important for school administrators to exhibit more positive and supportive leadership behaviours to increase teachers' motivation and strengthen their accountability.